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Official portrait of Rep. Kastenmeier, Robert W. [D-WI-2]

Rep. Kastenmeier, Robert W. [D-WI-2]

United States · Official source

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2,450 records where Rep. Kastenmeier, Robert W. [D-WI-2] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Bill· HRH.R. 1857 (100th)referred

A bill to amend titles XVIII and XIX of the Social Security Act to provide that clinical social worker services are covered under part B of Medicare and are a mandatory benefit under Medicaid, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1987

Amends titles XVIII (Medicare) and XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to provide coverage for clinical social worker services under Medicaid and part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of Medicare.

Bill· HRH.R. 1802 (100th)referred

A bill to promote the integration of women in the development process in developing countries.

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1987

Requires the Administrator of the Agency for International Development to: (1) develop and implement a plan to provide training for all Washington and mission-based professional staff that provides guidance on strategies for incorporating women in the planning, design, and management of the Agency's development activities; (2) develop an Agency-wide action plan for implementation of the Women in Development policy guidelines; (3) develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for providing appropriate extension and related services to low-resource women who are engaged in subsistence or cash crop production; (4) develop and implement a strategy for providing training, technical assistance, credit, and other services to strengthen the managerial skills and capabilities for women; and (5) increase training opportunities for women and set the target that a minimum of 40 percent of participant trainees be women by the year 1992, with appropriate geographical representation. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to require that a minimum of $5,000,000 of funds made available for foreign assistance programs be used for programs to promote the participation and integration of women in the development process in developing countries. (Present law places a maximum of $10,000,000 on the use of such funds.) Authorizes appropriations to be made available for the United Nations Development Fund for Women. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to instruct the U.S. Executive Director of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank) to: (1) propose that the Bank establish policy guidelines and implement an action plan to integrate women in the planning, design, implementation, management, and evaluation of Bank activities; and (2) report to the Congress on the implementation of that plan.

Bill· HRH.R. 1809 (100th)open

Agricultural Aid and Trade Missions Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1987

Agricultural Aid and Trade Missions Act - Title I: Agricultural Aid and Trade Missions - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of State, and the Administrator of the Agency for International Development to jointly establish agricultural aid and trade missions to eligible countries to encourage such countries to participate in U.S. agricultural aid and trade programs. Outlines administrative provisions concerning the composition and compensation of the U.S. representatives to such missions. Requires the establishment of seven missions within six months, and an additional eight missions within one year after enactment of this Act. Authorizes additional future missions. Requires members of such missions to: (1) meet with representatives of government agencies of the United States and the eligible country to plan the extent to which U.S. agricultural aid and trade programs could be used in a mutually beneficial manner; (2) provide technical expertise and information with respect to U.S. agricultural aid and trade programs and agricultural commodities and other assistance available to the eligible country; and (3) assist in obtaining firm commitments for proposals for food aid programs and agreements for commodity sales under agriculture export programs. Directs each mission, no later than 60 days after its completion, to report to the President, the Agriculture Committees of the Congress, the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of State, and the Administrator on its findings and recommendations in carrying out the purposes of this Act. Requires the Secretaries and the Administrator to jointly submit progress reports to the appropriate congressional committees during the two-year period beginning one year after enactment of this Act. Authorizes the use of the Commodity Credit Corporation to carry out the purposes of this Act. Title II: Expansion of Agricultural Exports and Markets - Subtitle A: Amendments to Title II of the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954 - Amends the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954 (ATDAA) to exempt nonemergency programs conducted by nonprofit voluntary agencies or cooperatives from any limitation on the generation and use of foreign currencies as a condition for obtaining assistance under ATDAA. Increases from five to ten percent of the aggregate value of the commodities distributed under nonemergency programs the amount that shall be used as foreign currency proceeds. Specifies uses of foreign currency proceeds from the sale or barter of commodities by such an agency or cooperative. Directs the President, no later than 45 days after submission, to take final action on a proposal submitted by a nonprofit voluntary agency or cooperative, with the concurrence of the field mission, for the delivery of commodities requested. Directs the President, no later than 30 days prior to the issuance of a final guideline issued to carry out title II of ATDAA, to provide notice of the proposed guideline to participating nonprofit agencies and cooperatives and to make such guideline available for review and comment. Subtitle B: Amendments to Section 416 of the Agricultural Act of 1949 - Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 (the Act, for purposes of this Subtitle) to specify wheat, rice, and feed grains acquired by the Commodity Credit Corporation through price support operations as eligible commodities for agricultural assistance programs under title II of ATDAA. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make available to nonprofit and voluntary agencies and cooperatives in a country commodities that are made available to such country as a country friendly to the United States. Authorizes the Secretary to approve multiyear agreements to make commodities available for distribution or sale by recipients under the Act. Outlines the authorized uses of foreign currencies generated from commodities distributed under the Act, and increases from five to ten percent of the aggregate value of commodities and products furnished for assistance programs the amount to be obtained from the sale of such commodities and products for foreign currency proceeds. Directs the Secretary, no later than 45 days after submission, to take final action on a proposal submitted by a nonprofit and voluntary agency or cooperative, with the concurrence of the field mission, for the delivery of commodities requested. Directs the Secretary, no later than 30 days prior to the issuance of a final guideline issued to carry out the Act, to provide notice of the proposed guideline to participating nonprofit agencies and cooperatives and to make such guideline available for review and comment. Increases the minimum quantities of eligible commodities that shall be made available by the Commodity Credit Corporation for distribution under the Act. Subtitle C: Foreign Agricultural Service - Specifies the authorized number of personnel for the Foreign Agricultural Service for FY 1987 through 1989 for the performance of the various agricultural export programs of the United States. Authorizes the Secretary to contract with individuals abroad as determined necessary for the performance of export-market enhancement activities. Provides that any such individuals used shall be considered non-Federal employees. Subtitle D: Miscellaneous - Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to authorize multiyear agreements under the food for progress program. Directs the Secretary, no later than December 31, 1987, to report to the Agriculture Committees of the Congress and the House Committee on Foreign Affairs on the use of authority provided under the Food for Peace Act of 1966 to provide intermediate credit financing for the establishment of facilities in the importing countries which would: (1) improve the handling, processing, and distribution of imported agricultural commodities; (2) increase livestock production; and (3) increase markets for U.S. livestock and livestock products. Amends the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954 to include the promotion of conservation and study of biological diversity among the self-help measures set forth under such Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 1800 (100th)open

Rural Area Revitalization Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1987

Rural Area Revitalization Act of 1987 - Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to authorize FY 1988 through 1992 appropriations for Rural Development Loan Fund intermediate borrowers. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to make 1988 through 1992 grants for: (1) rural business, employment, and infrastructure development; and (2) stimulation of growth and diversification in rural communities affected by chronic underemployment in basic economic sectors, such as agriculture. Limits: (1) Federal cost sharing to 75 percent, unless waived by the Secretary; and (2) grant eligibility to projects serving communities with populations of not more than 20,000 people. Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to authorize grants for rural drinking water projects. Directs the Secretary to establish an office in the Farmers Home Administration of the Department of Agriculture whose primary purpose shall be to encourage different approaches to economic and community development in rural areas.

Bill· HRH.R. 1778 (100th)referred

Imported Raw Agricultural Commodity Safety Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1987

Imported Raw Agricultural Commodity Safety Act of 1987 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to prepare a fiscal year plan for the distribution of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) resources for sampling imported raw agricultural commodities to ensure: (1) compliance with pesticide residue laws; and (2) sharing of violations data among FDA districts. Directs the Secretary to prepare a fiscal year summary of sampling activities which shall specify: (1) commodity types and volume; (2) country of export; (3) numbers of samples taken; and (4) violations, including commodity and pesticide, and the name of the importer. Directs the Secretary, when a violation has been found, to monitor such commodity during the successive growing season. Directs the Secretary to: (1) submit an enforcement report to the appropriate congressional committees; and (2) include within such report a description of any pesticide residue detection research.

Resolution· HRESH.Res. 131 (100th)referred

A resolution to state the guiding principles of United States policy toward South Africa's illegal occupation of Namibia.

United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1987

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the President should: (1) recognize the legitimacy of the plight of the Namibian people; (2) urge the Government of South Africa to take actions to end its illegal occupation of that country and to implement U.N. Resolution 435; (3) take a role in pursuing the resumption of negotiations between South Africa and the leaders of the Namibian people; (4) reject any policy which links the implementation of Resolution 435 to the withdrawal of Cuban troops from Angola; and (5) call for the termination of U.S. business in Namibia until South Africa complies with Resolution 435.

Bill· HRH.R. 1734 (100th)open

Federal Employees Health Benefits Reform Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1987

Federal Employees Health Benefits Reform Act of 1987 - Increases the amount of the Government's contribution for an employee enrolled in an employee health benefits plan from 60 to 75 percent of the average subscription charge for such plan. Increases the maximum Government contribution for an enrollee from 75 to 100 percent of such subscription charge. Requires payment of a Government differential equal to five percent of the average subscription charge, in addition to the Government's contribution, for any enrollee who is over 65 years of age and not entitled to Medicare benefits. Excludes such differential in determining the amount to be paid by the enrollee. Permits the following persons to elect to continue coverage under a Federal employees' health benefits plan for a specified period: (1) an employee who is involuntarily separated from the civil service due to a reduction in force; (2) an individual who elects to receive the lump-sum credit for civil service retirement benefits; and (3) an individual 22 years of age or older whose enrollment was based on such individual's being an unmarried child who was incapable of self-support because of a mental or physical disability which existed and did not terminate before the individual attained the age of 22. Requires such persons who elect to continue coverage to pay into the Employees Health Benefits Fund an amount equal to the sum of employee and agency contributions paid for the same level of benefits. Allows such a person to: (1) change to a lower level of benefits; (2) change coverage within 60 days after a change in family status; and (3) transfer enrollment to another plan under conditions prescribed by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). Provides a temporary extension of coverage to allow persons who elected not to continue coverage or whose continued coverage is terminated to convert to a nongroup contract providing health benefits. Allows annuitants whose annuity is less than the amount required to be withheld for enrollment in a health benefits plan to pay the amount of any deficiency required for enrollment. Requires contracts for employee organization plans to require carriers to: (1) enter into an agreement approved by OPM with an underwriting subcontractor licensed to issue group health insurance in all States and the District of Columbia; and (2) meet minimum financial standards prescribed by OPM. Requires the service benefit plan and the indemnity benefit plan to provide, in addition to all currently authorized benefits: (1) nervous and mental disorder benefits; (2) alcoholism and substance abuse treatment and rehabilitation benefits; and (3) comprehensive dental benefits. Prohibits the OPM from entering into a contract for any service benefit, indemnity benefit, or employee organization plan which does not provide for 50 outpatient visits and 60 inpatient days of nervous and mental disorder benefits and two 28-day alcoholism treatment and rehabilitation benefits. Requires any limits on nervous and mental disorder benefits to be exceeded on a case by case basis only to the extent that a peer review mechanism determines such treatment to be necessary. Requires 80 percent of such excessive benefit claims to be paid from the balance of one percent of all contributions to the Employees Health Benefits Fund remaining after the expenses of administering provisions governing Federal employees health benefit plans are paid. Prohibits the OPM from entering into a contract with a carrier for any health benefits plan which does not provide 95 percent of the benefits that such plan or the most similar plan provided during the preceding year, unless the carrier and the OPM mutually agree to waive such requirement. Prohibits the OPM from entering into a contract for a health benefits plan which excludes anyone because of nonactive employee status.

Bill· HRH.R. 1717 (100th)open

Marine Resources Investment and Economic Competitiveness Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1987

Marine Resources Investment and Economic Competitiveness Act of 1987 - Expands coverage of the National Sea Grant College and Program Act to include Great Lakes resources. (Current law covers ocean and coastal resources.) Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce (the Secretary) to establish a marine policy fellowship program for the placement of qualified graduate students with the legislative or executive branches of the U.S. Government. Amends the Sea Grant Improvement Act of 1976 to authorize the Secretary to make grants of up to 100 percent to carry out the strategic marine research program. Prohibits granting more than ten percent of the total funds appropriated for any fiscal year to persons in any one State, except for centers of excellence designated as provided in this Act. Requires the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere (the Under Secretary), within one year of enactment of this Act, and every three years thereafter, to develop and publish a report identifying and describing priority areas for strategic marine research. Requires submission of the report to the Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries in the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation in the Senate. Prohibits the Under Secretary from making such grants until 45 days after receipt of such report by the committees. Authorizes the Secretary, upon making certain findings, to designate centers of excellence in strategic marine research. Requires the Secretary to establish and administer a program of strategic marine research postdoctoral fellowships. Prohibits, except for such centers of excellence, more than ten percent of the fellowship awards being in use at any one sea grant program in the same fiscal year. Prohibits use of a fellowship to support an individual at the institution where that individual received a graduate degree. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into contracts and make grants for specified purposes. Sets eligibility requirements. (Current law requires the Secretary to support a sea grant fellowship program.) Establishes an independent committee to be known as the sea grant review panel, superseding the existing sea grant review panel, within 90 days after the enactment of this Act. Provides for the duties, membership, terms, and powers of such panel. Authorizes appropriations of specified amounts for each of FY 1988 through 1992. Provides for reversion of unused grant funds to the Secretary for use in other grants under the same provision as the original grant. Requires the Secretary, within one year of the enactment of this Act, to prescribe rules and regulations necessary to carry out provisions of this Act regarding the strategic marine research program. Repeals the provision of the current law dealing with the sea grant international program. Repeals provisions relating to a biennial report by the Secretary to the Congress and the President regarding the national sea grant program.

Bill· HRH.R. 1727 (100th)open

Strategic Ocean and Coastal Resources Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1987

Strategic Ocean and Coastal Resources Act of 1987 - Title I: National Sea Grant College Program - Amends the National Sea Grant College Program Act (the Sea Grant Act) to revise certain findings and definitions under such Act. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to identify those ocean and coastal resources research areas that are to be considered "strategic research areas" for purposes of the making of grants for research in such areas. Requires the Secretary to submit to the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee and the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee, on an annual basis, a report containing the rationale for identifying each strategic research area. Directs the Secretary to make grants to any project that is: (1) within a sea grant program; and (2) involves a strategic research area. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1992 for such grants. Authorizes the Secretary, as part of the sea grant fellowship program, to award sea grant fellowships to support the placement of qualified individuals in positions with the Federal Government for a period of up to one year. Revises provisions concerning the composition and terms of office of the Sea Grant Review Panel. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1992. Directs the Secretary to establish a postdoctoral fellowship program under which grants are made to support strategic research and to provide supplemental education and training in any field related to ocean and coastal resources for which the Secretary considers there to be a national need. Outlines provisions concerning the application for and the awarding of such fellowships. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1992 for such purpose. Amends the Sea Grant Act to direct the Secretary to provide annual grants to enable eligible institutions to improve and support curriculum offerings in marine affairs and resource management at the graduate level, to support graduate students of such studies through scholarships and fellowships, and to increase faculty and staff involvement in such programs. Defines "eligible institution" and sets forth grant application and award provisions. Requires each institution receiving such a grant to report to the Secretary annually and within 90 days after the termination of the grant with regard to the application of grant funds. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1992 for the making of such grants. Title II: International Sea Grant Program - Amends the Sea Grant Program Improvement Act of 1976 to include as objectives under such Act various goals which stress the need for international cooperation, technology transfer, and data exchange between the United States and foreign nations with regard to research and educational activity on important marine resources. Extends the authorization of appropriations under such Act through FY 1992.

Bill· HRH.R. 1737 (100th)open

Small Business Trade Remedies Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1987

Small Business Trade Remedies Act of 1987 - Directs the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to establish within the Small Business Administration's Advocacy Office the Small Business Trade Remedies Office. Provides that the functions of the Office are to assist small businesses by preparing, initiating, and participating in proceedings relating to the administration of U.S. trade laws. Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to require the International Trade Commission (ITC), with respect to countervailing and antidumping duty investigations, to make determinations concerning whether a U.S. small business has been materially injured by reason of imported merchandise upon information (available at the time of the determination) which was provided by the parties to the investigation or generally available to the public. (Previously, determinations were based upon the best information available to the Commission at the time of the determination.) Sets forth special rules the ITC must use in making determinations as to material injury to U.S. small businesses in countervailing and antidumping duty investigations.

Bill· HRH.R. 1718 (100th)open

Patent Equity Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1987

Patent Equity Act - Title I: Patented Process - Amends the patent laws to make it an infringement of patent to use, sell, or import into the United States without authority a product produced by a process patented in the United States. Requires the infringer to know or be on notice that the product was made by a process patented in the United States before a process patent holder may recover damages. Limits damages for unknowing infringement to reasonable royalties. Makes this provision effective prospectively only. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to report annually to the Congress for five years on the effect of this provision on the importation of manufacturing ingredients in certain domestic industries.

Bill· HRH.R. 1692 (100th)open

Employee Educational Assistance Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1987

Employee Educational Assistance Act of 1987 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make permanent the income tax exclusion for employee educational assistance programs. (Present law terminates such exclusion as of December 31, 1987.) Requires, for every taxable year beginning after 1988, an annual cost of living adjustment of the maximum excludable amount. Waives the maximum excludable amount for any educational assistance furnished by certain educational institutions to graduate students engaged in teaching or research activities for such organization.

Bill· HRH.R. 1707 (100th)open

A bill to establish the Veterans' Administration as an executive department.

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1987

Establishes the Veterans Administration as an executive department redesignated as the Department of Veterans' Affairs. Makes technical and conforming changes, including the redesignation of the Administrator of Veterans Affairs as the Secretary of Veterans' Affairs.

Bill· HRH.R. 1696 (100th)open

Work Opportunities and Retraining Compact of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1987

Work Opportunities and Retraining Compact of 1987 - Amends part A (Aid to Families with Dependent Children) of title IV of the Social Security Act to require AFDC applicants and recipients to register with a State agency for employment counseling, training, and assignment. Authorizes AFDC recipients to refuse employment which results in a net loss in their income. Provides that the mandatory participation of an individual caring for a child under age six shall be on a part-time basis. Exempts those caring for children under age three from participation in work-related programs. Directs an agency of each State to: (1) establish a single intake and registration process for AFDC applicants and recipients; (2) determine whether training or education is needed to prepare registered applicants and recipients for employment and then provide counseling regarding prospects and needs; (3) arrange for participation in one or more of the work-related programs established under title IV of the Act or other Federal law, while coordinating such programs to enhance the availability and efficiency of services provided; and (4) develop an employment plan for each AFDC applicant or recipient. Requires the State agency to work closely with the State job training coordinating council and the private industry councils established under the Job Training Partnership Act. Requires the State agency to provide AFDC applicants and recipients assigned to employment, training, or education programs with child care and transportation services. Requires that, for one year after an individual's AFDC eligibility ceases, the State: (1) continue to provide the child care and transportation services necessary for the individual to engage in and retain employment; and (2) assure that such individual and his family have adequate Medicaid (title XIX of the Act) or other health care coverage, with the individual paying a portion of the cost of such services and coverage determined on the basis of his or her ability to pay. Sets the Federal share of: (1) education, training, and assignment costs at 70 percent or the Federal AFDC assistance percentage, whichever is higher; and (2) administrative and support service costs at 50 percent. Increases, by five percent in any fiscal year after FY 1988, the Federal share of education, training, and assignment costs, provided a State meets certain performance standards to be developed by the Office of Technology Assessment. Provides that such standards shall measure a State's success in reducing welfare costs and helping AFDC recipients achieve self-sufficiency, while accounting for differing conditions among the States. Requires the publication of such standards within two years of enactment of this Act. Amends the Job Training Partnership Act to require each private industry council and State job training coordinating council to include a representative of the State agency consolidating the administration of work-related programs.

Bill· HRH.R. 1701 (100th)open

A bill to amend the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to prohibit certain airline scheduling practices that result in passenger delays and inconveniences, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1987

Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to prohibit an air carrier from scheduling a flight at a particular time from a particular airport if such carrier has reason to know that it is unlikely to depart at that time because of the number of flights scheduled to depart from the airport at that time. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) immediately investigate the scheduling practices of air carriers at major hub airports in order to determine whether such practices make it likely that one or more flights will not depart as scheduled because of the number of flights scheduled at any one time; (2) request air carriers to discuss and agree on schedules if an investigation reveals that scheduling practices make it unlikely for flights to depart as scheduled; and (3) prescribe schedules to ensure that flights are liley to depart as scheduled if the carriers cannot agree upon such schedules among themselves. Requires any air carrier that cancels a flight for reasons other than weather or aviation safety to provide free transportation on the next available flight to the same destination.

Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 192 (100th)referred

WIC Food For Life Resolution

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1987

WIC Food for Life Resolution - Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) should receive increasing appropriations until all eligible persons are being served; and (2) an outreach program should be conducted to identify persons eligible for WIC assistance.

Bill· HRH.R. 1663 (100th)open

Small Business Prompt Payment Act Amendments of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1987

Small Business Prompt Payment Act Amendments of 1987 - Revises Federal law to deem the head of a Federal agency to have received an invoice on the later of: (1) the date on which the designated office or employee of an agency actually receives it; or (2) the fifth day after the date on which a property is actually delivered, or final performance of a service is actually completed, unless the contract specifies otherwise. Makes Federal prompt payment provisions applicable to the United States Postal Service. Makes the Postmaster General responsible for issuing procurement regulations, solicitation provisions, and contract clauses. Reduces the 15-day grace period for payment of interest penalties to eight days for solicitations (other than meat products and agricultural commodities) issued before October 1, 1990. Eliminates such grace period for procurement solicitations issued on or after October 1, 1990. Requires an agency to pay a double interest penalty if: (1) the agency owes the interest penalty; (2) the interest penalty is not paid to the business concern on or after the date the penalty is due; (3) the agency does not pay the penalty within ten days after such payment is made; and (4) a written demand is made within 40 days after such payment is made. Requires regulations on interest penalties, in the case of construction contracts, to provide for the payment of interest on: (1) progress payments due for more than seven days, or a longer period if the prevailing practice in private construction contracts is to provide such longer period; and (2) amounts retained during the performance of a contract, if such amounts are not paid by the required payment date. Requires regulations on interest penalties to provide for periodic payments in the case of supply or service contracts upon: (1) the submission of an invoice for supplies delivered or services performed; and (2) acceptance of supplies or services by an authorized employee or certification of performance by such an employee. Requires Government construction contractors to include a payment provision in their agreements with their subcontractors which provides for payment in accordance with prevailing industry standards. Requires the contractor to pay a late payment interest penalty to the subcontractor at the rate applicable between the prime contractor and the Government. Specifies the calculation of time for interest penalties on discount payments. Revises agency reporting requirements on interest penalty payments to include: (1) a description of agency payment practices; and (2) an analysis by the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization for each of the various Federal agencies on the impact of such payments on small and disadvantaged businesses. Requires the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration to report to the congressional committees on Small Business on current Government compliance with the payment of interest penalties and the impact on small business. Requires the Chief Counsel to monitor the compliance of all agencies and of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget with interest penalty payments. Requires the modification of the Federal acquisition regulation to implement Federal prompt payment provisions.

Bill· HRH.R. 1635 (100th)open

Consumer Products Safe Testing Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1987

Consumer Products Safe Testing Act - Expresses congressional findings that: (1) the Federal Government has encouraged the use of the LD50 test through regulations which mandate or encourage its use or do not prescribe other less costly, more accurate, and more humane alternatives; and (2) private industry is reluctant to use these other tests without Federal Government encouragement. (LD50 is a procedure whereby toxicity is measured in terms of the median dose that will kill 50 percent of the test animals within a specified time.) Prohibits Federal department or agency heads from considering LD50 test results when determining product safety, labeling, or transportation requirements for purposes of Federal regulation. Requires Federal department and agency heads to: (1) review and evaluate directives that call for the use of an animal toxicity test; and (2) promulgate regulations specifying the use of nonanimal alternatives. Permits the use of animal toxicity tests under certain conditions. Requires that animal toxicity testing regulations be subject to periodic agency review and to public comment in certain cases.

Bill· HRH.R. 1638 (100th)referred

Performing Arts Labor Relations Amendments

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1987

Performing Arts Labor Relations Amendments - Amends the National Labor Relations Act to exclude specified types of employers and performers in the performing arts from coverage under unfair labor practice provisions prohibiting specified contracts or agreements between employers and labor organizations and prohibiting specified actions of labor organizations to force or require cessation of dealings with others, joining of labor or employer organizations, or recognition of or negotiation with labor organizations not certified as representative. Permits such employers, excluding employers in the broadcasting or motion picture industries, to: (1) agree with a labor organization to make membership in such organization a condition of performing arts employment; and (2) make agreements with a labor organization covering performing artists even if the majority status of the organization has not yet been established. Defines "employer" to include purchasers of musical performance services. Defines "employee" to include independent contractors engaged to perform musical services.

Bill· HRH.R. 1651 (100th)referred

Intellectual Property Anti-Piracy and Market Access Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1987

Intellectual Property Anti-Piracy and Market Access Act - Amends the copyright and patent laws to direct the U.S. Trade Representative to list all foreign countries and instrumentalities that deny adequate and effective protection of copyright, patent, and trademark rights to U.S. persons, specifying which countries are priority foreign countries based upon their practices and the potential market for U.S. products. Requires the President to negotiate with the priority foreign countries to establish adequate and effective protection for U.S. persons' rights. Directs the President to take action, such as terminating, withdrawing, or suspending any portion of a trade agreement or duty-free treatment, if unable to reach an agreement on such issues. Authorizes the President to defer such actions upon certifying to the Congress that negotiations are making substantial progress. Requires the President to consult with the Register of Copyrights, the Commissioner of Patents and Trademarks, and interested congressional Members and committees and to keep them informed of priorities, progress, and possible U.S. concessions.

Bill· HRH.R. 1636 (100th)referred

Federal Council on Women Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1987

Federal Council on Women Act - Establishes a Federal Council on Women to: (1) collect and evaluate information with respect to any problems that are particular to women in the United States; (2) review and evaluate Federal policy related to any such problems; (3) coordinate the activities of the Council with similar activities conducted by States, local governments, and concerned organizations; and (4) make recommendations. Directs the Council to report its findings and recommendations to the Congress. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· HRH.R. 1623 (100th)open

Berne Convention Implementation Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1987

Berne Convention Implementation Act of 1987 - Amends the copyright law to implement the Berne Convention, the Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works, signed at Berne on September 9, 1886. Extends copyright protection to architectural works in conformance with such Convention. Extends comparable copyright protection to protectable works of nationals of Berne Union members. Establishes independent authorship rights (moral rights) in copyrighted works, entitling an author or successor in interest to claim authorship and object to distortions or mutilations of such work. Revises provisions concerning the licensing of coin-operated phonorecord players (jukeboxes). Permits copyright owners and operators of jukeboxes to directly negotiate the terms and royalty rates for performing copyrighted works if the Copyright Royalty Tribunal certifies that, over a one year period after this Act's enactment, such process has resulted in authorizing the use of a not substantially smaller quantity of work. Suspends the ratemaking activities of the Tribunal while such conditions are being met. Permits an author to waive or transfer moral rights. Limits the protection of architectural works to artistic character and design, not materials. Permits building owners to modify an architectural work to enhance utility without the copyright holder's or author's consent. Permits the use of a notice of copyright on publicly distributed copies of protected works, including phonorecords of sound recordings (current law requires such notice). States that such a notice is a bar to a defense of innocent infringement if the defendant had access to copies with such notice. Requires the continued use of a copyright notice identifying works of the U.S. Government. Eliminates notice provisions for contributions to collective works. Retains deposit requirements. Continues permissive registration. Entitles an author or author's successor to remedies such as injunctive relief, damages, profits, costs, or attorney's fees for violations of moral rights. Makes this Act effective the day after the Berne Convention enters into force with respect to the United States.

Bill· HRH.R. 1617 (100th)referred

A bill to promote United States trade in agricultural commodities, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1987

Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to: (1) initiate discussions with other major grain-producing nations (including European Economic Community members, Canada, Australia, and Argentina) leading toward an agreement to reduce grain production; and (2) report to the Congress by March 1, 1988. Directs the President to enter into joint development assistance agreements with nations having a positive trade balance with the United States. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to: (1) prohibit the use of U.S. assistance for construction projects which would be detrimental to American farmers; and (2) limit the use of U.S. assistance to purchase foreign goods and services. Directs the Secretary to require that countries receiving U.S. food assistance give future purchase preference to U.S. food and food products. Amends Federal law to direct the Commodity Credit Corporation to make agricultural commodities available free to nonprofit organizations to promote U.S. agricultural marketing abroad. Requires that at least one-third of foreign assistance funds be used to make U.S. food commodities available to foreign countries pursuant to the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954.

Bill· HRH.R. 1582 (100th)referred

Fair Election Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 March 1987

Fair Election Act - Prohibits States from using any device to abridge or deny the right of an individual to be placed on, or to have such individual's political affiliation placed on, a ballot or similar voting materials in a Federal election. Allows States to impose specified prerequisites regarding petitions for placement on ballots. Allows States to waive such requirements for candidates or political affiliates which receive certain amounts of votes in the most recent election for President or the Senate.

Bill· HRH.R. 1580 (100th)open

Anti-Apartheid Act Amendments of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 12 March 1987

Prohibits any investments in South Africa by U.S. persons. Prohibits the importation into the United States of any article from South Africa, except for strategic minerals which the President certifies to the Congress are essential for military uses, are not sufficiently available from domestic supplies, and for which no substitutes are available. Prohibits the exportation to South Africa of any goods, technology, or other information subject to U.S. jurisdiction. Prohibits any such exportation by any person subject to U.S. jurisdiction. Exempts from such prohibition certain medical supplies and food. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to prohibit the takeoff and landing of any aircraft except for emergencies by a foreign air carrier owned by South Africa or South African nationals. Prohibits the importation into the United States of any South African gold coin. Prohibits any U.S. depository institution from accepting, receiving, or holding a deposit account from South Africa. Prohibits the United States from engaging in any military or intelligence activities in cooperation with South Africa. Authorizes the President to limit imports into the United States from a foreign country to the extent that such foreign country benefits from, or takes commercial advantage of, any prohibition imposed by this Act. Provides for the enforcement of this Act. Repeals the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act of 1986 and the amendments made by that Act to the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 76 (100th)open

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of the Congress in support of a private initiative established for the purpose of enhancing small business access to U.S. trade laws.

United States · United States Congress · 12 March 1987

Expresses the sense of the Congress that the corporate, legal, labor, and academic communities should pursue establishment of an organization to provide pro bono legal assistance to small businesses in cases involving foreign unfair trade practices. Urges such organization to: (1) develop an outreach program to inform businesses of remedies available under U.S. trade laws; and (2) provide pro bono legal assistance to those businesses lacking resources to seek such remedies.

Bill· HRH.R. 1561 (100th)open

Democracy in Chile Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1987

Democracy in Chile Act of 1987 - Declares that it is U.S. policy to: (1) encourage the peaceful return to democracy in Chile; (2) condemn continued acts of brutality by the Chilean Government as well as the assassination attempt against General Pinochet; (3) call for the adoption of a timetable for the transition to democracy and civilian rule; and (4) support efforts to establish the framework for such transition. Imposes the following sanctions against Chile beginning 30 days after enactment of this Act: (1) U.S. opposition to multilateral development bank loans or other assistance for Chile unless the assistance is directed specifically to programs which serve the basic human needs of the citizens of Chile; (2) denial of benefits to Chile under the Generalized System of Preferences and prohibition of duty-free treatment of imports from Chile; (3) denial of Overseas Private Investment Corporation loans or investment guarantees for Chile; (4) prohibition of imports of copper from Chile; and (5) termination of the United States-Chile air transportation agreement. Provides that such sanctions shall not apply if: (1) the President certifies to the Congress that Chile has made significant progress in complying with internationally recognized human rights and in restoring labor rights, has made significant progress in establishing a free multi-party electoral process, has ended the practice of forced exile and restrictions on the right of Chilean nationals to enter and leave their country, and has taken appropriate steps to investigate the deaths of Rodrigo Rojas de Negri, Orlando Letelier, and Ronni Moffitt; and (2) the Congress, within 30 days of receiving such certification, enacts a joint resolution approving such certification. Provides for expedited congressional consideration of such joint resolution.

Bill· HRH.R. 1510 (100th)referred

Patents in Space Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1987

Amends the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 and the Federal patent law to provide that any invention made, used, or sold in outer space on an aeronautical and space vehicle under the jurisdiction or control of the United States shall be considered made, used, or sold within the United States. Applies this provision to all patents granted before, on, or after the date of enactment of this Act, with certain exceptions.

Bill· HRH.R. 1509 (100th)open

Intellectual Property and Trade Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1987

Intellectual Property and Trade Act - Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to make unlawful acts of importation into, or sale in, the United States of articles that infringe a valid U.S. patent, copyright, trademark, or U.S. maskwork in current or soon to be established industries. Permits any person to petition the International Trade Commission (ITC) for the issuance of an order to exclude such articles, during its investigation, from entry into the United States. Sets forth: (1) civil penalties for violations under this Act; and (2) procedures for the modification or rescission of an ITC order under this Act. Repeals a provision of the Tariff Act of 1930 relating to the importation of products produced under a process covered by claims of an unexpired patent.

Bill· HRH.R. 1508 (100th)open

Patent Equity Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1987

Patent Equity Act - Title I: Patented Process - Amends the patent laws to make it an infringement of patent to use, sell, or import into the United States without authority a product produced by a process patented in the United States. Requires the infringer to know or be on notice that the product was made by a process patented in the United States before a process patent holder may recover damages. Places the burden of proof in an infringement action to show that product was not produced by the patented process on the defendant. Limits pre-knowledge damages to reasonable royalties. Makes this provision effective prospectively only. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to report annually to the Congress for five years on the effect of this provision on the importation of manufacturing ingredients in certain domestic industries. Title II: Patent Cooperation Treaty Authorization - Amends the patent laws to implement the Patent Cooperation Treaty. Permits the Commissioner of Patents and Trademarks to determine when the basic fee of an international application is due. Authorizes the Patent and Trademark Office to act as an International Preliminary Examining Authority with respect to international applications in accordance with terms and conditions prescribed by the International Bureau and the Commissioner. Revises the time limit for commencement of the national stage of international applications to conform with the Patent Cooperation Treaty. Requires an English translation of any annexes to the international preliminary examination report made in another language. Requires the payment of a handling as well as international fee. Permits the charging of a preliminary examination fee.

Bill· HRH.R. 1507 (100th)referred

Rules Enabling Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1987

Rules Enabling Act of 1987 - Amends the Federal judicial code with respect to the U.S. Supreme Court's power to prescribe Federal rules of civil procedure (including bankruptcy rules). Empowers the Supreme Court to prescribe rules of evidence. (Currently, it only has power to prescribe amendments to such rules, which are promulgated by the Congress.) Authorizes the Judicial Conference of the United States to appoint committees comprised of judges and attorneys who will recommend the rules to be prescribed for Federal practice, procedure, and evidence. Mandates the appointment of a standing committee on rules of practice, procedure, and evidence to review all committee recommendations for consistency. Requires all committee meetings, with specified exceptions, to be open to the public and be preceded by sufficient public notice to enable all interested persons to attend. Requires that recommendations or prescriptions for rules of practice and procedure be accompanied by: (1) a proposed rule; (2) an explanatory note on the rule; and (3) a written explanation of the recommending body's action, including minority or separate views. Requires the Supreme Court to transmit proposed rules of civil practice, procedure, and evidence to the Congress by May 1 of the year in which such rules are to become effective. Sets December 1 of such year as the effective date for such rules. Authorizes the Supreme Court to determine the extent such rules shall apply to proceedings then pending, except that the Supreme Court shall not require the application of such rule to proceedings then pending to the extent that, in the opinion of the court in which such proceedings are pending, the application of such rule in such proceedings would not be feasible or would work injustice, in which event the former rule applies. Requires the Conference periodically to compile rules and orders with regard to procedures dealing with judicial discipline. Requires the Conference periodically to review the procedural rules for consistency with the Conference's rules of practice, procedure, and evidence. Authorizes the Conference to modify or abrogate inconsistent rules. Provides that rules prescribed by district courts for the conduct of their business must require public notice and opportunity for comment before they are made or amended. Requires each judicial council periodically to review certain district court rules for consistency with those rules prescribed by the Supreme Court. Authorizes each council to modify or abrogate any rule found to be inconsistent. Provides that all orders by the judicial councils relating to practice and procedure shall be made after public notice and an opportunity for comment. Amends the Federal criminal code to rescind the power of the Supreme Court to prescribe rules of criminal practice and procedure for: (1) trials held by magistrates; and (2) taking and hearing appeals to district court judges from magistrate-held trials.

Law· HJRESH.J.Res. 181 (100th)enacted

A joint resolution commemorating the bicentennial of the Northwest Ordinance of 1787.

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1987

Commemorates the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 as one of the fundamental legal documents of the United States. Authorizes and requests the President to issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States to observe the bicentennial of the Northwest Ordinance.

Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 176 (100th)referred

A joint resolution requiring the United States to continue during fiscal year 1988 the existing United States-Soviet Union mutual moratorium on testing antisatellite (ASAT) weapons against objects in space so long as the Soviet Union does the same and urging the President to seek with the Soviet Union a mutual and verifiable treaty placing the strictest possible limitations on the testing, deployment, and use of antisatellite weapons.

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1987

Prohibits the United States from carrying out a test of the Space Defense System (antisatellite weapon) involving the miniature homing vehicle against an object in space until the President certifies to the Congress that the Soviet Union has conducted, after enactment of this Act, a test against an object in space of a dedicated antisatellite weapon. Provides that such prohibition expires on October 1, 1988. Declares that the President should seek with the Soviet Union a mutual and verifiable treaty which limits the testing, deployment, and use of any antisatellite weapon.

Bill· HRH.R. 1436 (100th)open

A bill to amend the Agricultural Act of 1949 to limit the quantity of milk protein products that may be imported into the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1987

Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to limit annual imports of milk protein products (casein) to 50 percent of the average annual amount imported during the period 1981 through 1985. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a preferential import licensing system for such products based on the availability of domestic substitutes.

Bill· HRH.R. 1425 (100th)open

Family Farm Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1987

Family Farm Act - Title I: Agricultural Commodity Supply Management - Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949, effective for the 1988 through 2000 crop years, to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct referendums among crop and milk producers every four years to determine whether an agricultural commodity supply management program (program) shall be in effect for such period. (States that if a referendum is not approved current price support provisions shall apply.) Administers such program through the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC). Establishes program commodity loan rates at 70 percent of parity beginning with the 1988 crop year, and increasing by one percent per year to a maximum of 80 percent for the 1998 through 2000 crop years. (Eliminates target prices and other subsidy payments.) Directs the Secretary to conduct a study and report to the Congress prior to the beginning of the 1993 crop year regarding the economic impact of this Act and the continuation of such loan schedule. Directs the Secretary to: (1) proclaim a national marketing quota for each commodity based upon domestic and export demands, food aid requirements, and carryover and reserve requirements; and (2) proclaim a national acreage allotment based upon projected national yield and expected underplantings. Requires producers to apply for farm acreage allotments. Limits acreage increases to not more than 20 percent of the previous year's acreage. Authorizes the Secretary to establish a conservation use set-aside program if a commodity's projected production will exceed its national marketing quota. Increases set-aside percentages as projected production increases. Limits such maximum percentage to 35 percent. Authorizes a paid diversion program if further production decreases are necessary. Limits nonprogram crop production under specified conditions. Provides for the assignment of marketing certificates based upon the number of permitted acres times a farm's program yield. Provides for quantity reductions due to on-farm use. Authorizes excess commodities to be stored and marketed under a certificate issued in a subsequent year, or donated or sold for famine relief to the CCC. Requires importers to obtain such certificates. Limits the conditions of their use. Directs the Secretary to establish a farmers' disaster reserve, to be initially stocked by CCC commodities and afterwards by producer contributions. Limits maximum individual assistance. Sets forth penalties for program noncompliance. Makes conforming amendments to specified Acts. Permits family-size livestock and poultry producers to purchase CCC grain for a 36-month period beginning 30 days after enactment of this Act. Limits maximum annual purchases. Title II: Milk Marketing Control - Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to direct the Secretary to conduct referendums among milk producers every four years to determine whether an alternative milk price support program (program) shall be in effect for such period. (States that if a referendum is not approved current price support provisions shall apply.) Establishes milk price support levels at 70 percent of parity beginning in 1988, and increasing by one-percent per year to a maximum of 80 percent for 1998 through 2000. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study and report to the Congress before January 1, 1993, regarding the economic impact of this Act and the continuation of such support schedule. States that the Secretary shall determine individual milk marketing bases for each year such program is in effect. Bases such amount on the product of the producers' marketing history (1981 through 1985) and the annual marketing allocation factor (based on domestic and export needs and production quantities). Permits the transfer of milk marketing bases, subject to specified conditions and with priority given to family members and beginning producers. Title III: Agricultural Exports and Imports - Subtitle A: Agricultural Exports - Amends the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954 to provide for multilateral famine relief agreements. Authorizes the use of CCC surplus stocks for such purposes. Subtitle B: Agricultural Imports - Directs the Secretary to use specified import limitation authority under the Agricultural Adjustment Act to prevent imported commodities from interfering with domestic price support activities. Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to require country of origin labeling for any agricultural product containing a significant (by volume or value) portion of imported ingredients. Prohibits the importation of commodities, live animals used for food, or food items containing residues of chemicals prohibited for use in the United States. Title IV: Food and Nutrition Assistance - Subtitle A: General Food and Nutrition Programs - Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to direct the Secretary to increase food stamp benefits to offset any food price increases resulting from this Act. Makes similar amendments to the National School Lunch Act (school lunch program), and the Child Nutrition Act of 1986 (school breakfast program and the supplemental food program for women, infants, and children (WIC)). Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to: (1) adjust the cost of the thrifty food plan; (2) exclude child support payments from income for purposes of food stamp eligibility; (3) increase excess shelter expense deduction caps; (4) amend the allowable deduction for excess medical expenses of the elderly and disabled; (5) increase the limitations on financial resources; (6) permit the use of administrative funds to provide program information to unemployed, disabled, or elderly persons; (7) increase FY 1988 through 1990 appropriations; (8) authorize outreach programs for the homeless; (9) provide separate household status for certain children and siblings; and (10) provide food stamps within five days of application to the homeless and to persons whose combined gross income and liquid resources is less than their monthly rent and utilities. Amends the Temporary Emergency Food Assistance Act of 1983 to increase FY 1987 authorizations, and authorize FY 1988 authorizations, for the temporary emergency food assistance (TEFAP) program. Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to replace the current specific FY 1989 WIC authorization with an authorization of necessary funds for FY 1989. Increases the authorization of appropriations for nutrition education and training. Subtitle B: Nutrition Monitoring and Related Research - National Nutrition Monitoring and Related Research Act of 1987 - Establishes a ten-year coordinated program, to be known as the National Nutrition Monitoring and Related Research Program, which shall be implemented by the Secretaries of Health and Human Services and Agriculture. Establishes an Interagency Board for Nutrition Monitoring and Related Research to facilitate the implementation of such program. Authorizes the Secretaries to appoint an Administrator of Nutrition Monitoring and Related Research to coordinate such program. Requires the Secretaries to prepare and implement a comprehensive national nutrition monitoring and related research plan which shall: (1) assess and report on U.S. nutritional and dietary trends; (2) assess and report on low-income food and household expenditures; (3) sponsor and conduct research; (4) develop and update a national dietary and nutritional status data bank; (5) assist State and local agencies in developing procedures and networks for nutrition monitoring and surveillance; and (6) focus the activities of Federal agencies. Requires the plan to allocate the project functions and activities among the various Federal agencies and offices involved. Provides that the comprehensive plan shall be carried out during the period ending with the close of the ninth fiscal year following the fiscal year in which the final comprehensive plan is submitted. Requires the Secretaries to provide for and coordinate such scientific research and development as may be necessary to support the coordinated program and comprehensive plan. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the President to establish a National Nutrition Monitoring Advisory Council to: (1) provide scientific and technical advice on the development and implementation of all components of the coordinated program and the comprehensive plan; (2) evaluate such program and plan; and (3) submit an annual report to the Secretaries. Directs the Secretaries to publish and review dietary guidelines for the general population. Title V: Financial Assistance - Subtitle A: Farm Debt Restructuring Program - Chapter 1: Entitlement to Debt Restructuring Aid - Entitles eligible farmers in qualifying States who enter into qualifying debt restructuring agreements to Federal debt restructuring assistance. Chapter 2: Qualifying States - Sets forth the following requirements for qualifying States: (1) the State must have a farm loan mediation program; (2) State law must require that a collection action be preceded by notification of the borrower of the availability of State mediation services and Federal debt restructuring assistance; and (3) the State must provide farm counseling services. Sets forth mediation program requirements including: (1) training mediators; and (2) mediation period of at least 42 days. Chapter 3: Qualified Debt Restructuring Agreements - Requires qualified debt restructuring agreements to provide for: (1) principal writedown and interest rate reduction; and (2) timely borrower payments. Chapter 4: Debt Restructuring Aid - Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a County Emergency Debt Restructuring Committee in each county of a qualifying State to administer the debt restructuring program. Requires a committee to determine an applicant's eligibility for debt restructuring assistance within seven days of receipt of an application. Provides assistance as either: (1) no-interest loans of up to $30,000 for three years; or (2) grants of equivalent value. Establishes a five-year loan repayment period, with a two-year postponement if necessary. Establishes an appeals procedure for denied restructuring agreements. Directs the Secretary to establish a Review Board for such purpose. Chapter 5: Administrative Provisions - Provides 50 percent matching grants to States to offset the costs of such mediation program. Limits annual payments to any State to $1,000,000. Sets forth provisions regarding the participation of affected Federal agencies, including the Farm Credit Administration. Requires the Secretary to submit a program report to the Congress by January 15 of each fiscal year. Chapter 6: Definitions - Defines "eligible farm borrower" as a person: (1) who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien; (2) who operates a family farm (gross sales not exceeding $500,000); (3) who is a farm loan borrower; (4) whose average nonfarm related income does not exceed $45,000; and (5) whose projected gross income will not exceed specified sums. Subtitle B: Grants to States to Assist Persons Leaving Farming - Establishes in the Department of Agriculture the Office of Emergency Aid for Persons Leaving Farming to provide transition assistance to States for eligible families leaving agriculture. Makes such assistance available as: (1) cash assistance; (2) home energy assistance; (3) relocation assistance; (4) family services; (5) employment assistance; (6) job skills training; and (7) nutrition assistance information. Requires the Secretary to submit a program report to the Congress by January 15 of each fiscal year. Terminates such program five years after enactment of this subtitle. Subtitle C: Miscellaneous Provisions - Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to prohibit debt restructuring assistance to persons producing commodities on erodible land or converted wetlands. Amends the Federal Deposit Insurance Act to permit banks to write off over ten years their losses incurred with such debt restructing agreements. Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to: (1) reduce the minimum annual sales requirement for purposes of homestead protection eligibility; (2) make limited resource loans available to minority farmers in proportion to local population percentages; and (3) require the Secretary to submit a report to the Congress regarding such minority loans by January 15 of each fiscal year.

Bill· HRH.R. 1433 (100th)referred

Anti-Live Animal Lure Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1987

Anti-Live Animal Lure Act of 1987 - Amends the Animal Welfare Act to prohibit the sponsoring, exhibiting, or transporting to sponsor or exhibit of an animal or dog in any coursing venture. Defines "coursing" as an activity involving the pursuit by dogs of another animal as a visual lure for training, entertainment, sport, or wagering.

Bill· HRH.R. 1417 (100th)referred

Torture Victim Protection Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1987

Torture Victim Protection Act of 1987 - Amends the United Nations Participation Act of 1945 to impose civil liability on anyone who, under actual or apparent authority of any foreign nation, subjects any person to torture or extrajudicial killing. Grants jurisdiction over such cases to U.S. district courts only after claimants have exhausted all available remedies in the place where the conduct giving rise to the claim occurred.

Bill· HRH.R. 1349 (100th)referred

Assimilative Crimes Act Amendments of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1987

Assimilative Crimes Act Amendments of 1987 - Amends the Federal criminal code to provide that the criminal penalty for operating a motor vehicle under the influence of a drug or alcohol in a special maritime or territorial jurisdiction of the United States shall be the punishment provided under the law of that State, territory, possession, or district. States that whoever operates a motor vehicle in such a jurisdiction consents to certain tests if arrested for driving under the influence of a drug or alcohol. States that any person refusing to submit to such tests shall be denied the privilege of operating a motor vehicle for one year.

Bill· HRH.R. 1313 (100th)open

Omnibus Taxpayers' Bill of Rights Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1987

Omnibus Taxpayers' Bill of Rights Act - Requires the Secretary of the Treasury (Secretary) to prepare a statement setting forth in nontechnical terms: (1) the rights and obligations of a taxpayer and of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) during a tax audit; (2) the procedures by which a taxpayer may appeal adverse decisions, prosecute refund claims, and file complaints; and (3) the procedures that the IRS may use in enforcing revenue laws. Directs the Secretary to transmit drafts of such statement to specified congressional committees and to distribute the final statement to all taxpayers with tax forms sent by the IRS. Amends the Inspector General Act of 1978 and other Federal law to establish within the Department of the Treasury (Department) an Office of Inspector General (Inspector). Transfers to such Office the existing audit and investigation units of the Department. Prohibits the Inspector from reviewing: (1) monetary, fiscal, and tax policy; and (2) the exercise of legal judgment in the investigation and litigation of cases. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) withhold from the Inspector requested information that the Secretary determines will jeopardize the success of an ongoing investigation or litigation, confidential sources, or the national security; and (2) prohibit the Inspector from undertaking or continuing an audit or investigation under limited circumstances described in this Act. Requires the IRS, upon taxpayer request, to conduct any interview regarding a deficiency assessment at a reasonable time and place convenient to the taxpayer and to the IRS, and to permit the taxpayer, at his or her own expense, to record the interview. Authorizes the IRS interviewer to record such interview if the taxpayer has been given prior notice and is provided, upon request and payment of reproduction costs, with a transcript of the recording. Requires the interview to warn the taxpayer that: (1) he or she has a right to remain silent; (2) any statement the taxpayer makes may be used against him or her; and (3) he or she has the right to the presence of an attorney, certified public accountant, enrolled agent, or enrolled actuary. Permits a waiver of such rights if voluntarily and knowingly made. Amends Federal law to require the Comptroller General (Comptroller) of the General Accounting Office to: (1) conduct audits of the IRS with respect to the efficiency, uniformity, and equity of the internal revenue laws (current law specifies no particular focus for such audits); and (2) conduct special audits or investigations of internal revenue law administration upon the request of any congressional committee or Member of Congress. Requires the Comptroller's annual report to the Congress to include specified findings concerning IRS management, efficiency, procedures, and structure. Divests of its finality a vote of the Joint Committee on Taxation to disapprove a Comptroller General audit of the IRS. Designates such vote as a recommendation to disapprove an audit and makes such recommendation subject to congressional approval. Prohibits evaluations of IRS personnel based on revenue collected from taxpayers as a result of audits or investigations involving such personnel. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to prescribe criminal penalties for: (1) any investigation by an officer or employee of the United States in connection with Federal tax laws that inquires into the beliefs, associations, or activities of any individual or organization; or (2) the maintenance of any records containing information derived from such an investigation. Creates a civil cause of action in Federal court (regardless of the amount in controversy) for any taxpayer aggrieved by such prohibited investigation or recordkeeping. Authorizes both equitable remedies and awards of damages, including punitive damages, litigation costs and reasonable attorney fees, in such cases. Extends from ten to 30 days the period between the required notice to a person who neglects or refuses to pay tax liability and a levy on such person's salary, wages, or other property. Specifies information that must be incorporated in such notice, including possible alternative actions and the appropriate appeals procedures. Adds to the circumstances triggering termination of such a levy: (1) an agreement between the taxpayer and the Secretary for payment of the liability; and (2) the Secretary's determination that the taxpayer's financial condition precludes enforceability of the liability. Revises the list of property exempt from levy to: (1) increase the exempt amount permitted for certain personal effects, the property of a business, and wages; (2) add an exemption for certain deposits in qualified institutions; and (3) provide an express exemption, except under limited circumstances specified in this Act, for the taxpayer's principal residence, a motor vehicle used by the taxpayer as the primary means of transportation to work, and any tangible personal property essential to the operation of the taxpayer's business in cases when a levy would prevent the taxpayer from carrying on such business. Prohibits a levy on any property when levy and sales expenses would exceed either the liability for which the levy is made or the fair market value of the levied property. Sets forth situations in which the Secretary must release a levy. Applies to jeopardy levies the administrative and judicial review procedures currently applicable to jeopardy assessments. Authorizes the Secretary, in certain cases, to enter into a binding agreement with a taxpayer under which such taxpayer may pay tax liability in installments. Requires the Secretary to offer in writing to enter such an agreement with any individual: (1) whose tax liability is $20,000 or less; and (2) who has not been delinquent in installment tax payments under similar agreements during a specified period. Permits the Secretary, after proper notice and a hearing, to modify or annul such an agreement upon the finding that the financial condition of the affected taxpayer has significantly changed. Requires the Secretary to abate in full any deficiency, including penalty or interest, completely attributable to erroneous advice in writing given to a taxpayer by an IRS officer or employee in response to such taxpayer's specific inquiry. Directs IRS officers and employees, when giving oral advice to a person, to inform such person that the contents of such communication are not binding on the IRS. Authorizes the IRS Ombudsman, upon application filed by a taxpayer, to issue a Taxpayer Assistance Order if, in the determination of the Ombudsman: (1) the taxpayer is suffering or is about to suffer from an unusual or irreparable loss as a result of the manner in which the internal revenue laws are being administered by the Secretary; and (2) the Secretary has failed to carry out any of his or her duties or has violated any provision of law. Allows the terms of a Taxpayer Assistance Order to require the Secretary to release property of the taxpayer levied upon or to cease or refrain from certain actions. Requires the Secretary to obey any Taxpayer Assistance Order issued by the Ombudsman. Allows an administrative appeal of tax liens. Revises the criteria according to which the Secretary determines a minimum sale price for property seized by levy and subject to a tax sale. Prohibits the Secretary from authorizing a class audit of taxpayers in a particular business or trade until each group member is given proper notice and the opportunity either to file an amended return or to challenge the Secretary's findings at a hearing. Places upon the IRS the burden of proof on all issues in all administrative and judicial proceedings between the IRS and a taxpayer. Applies the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act to all IRS rules and regulations prescribed by the Secretary.

Bill· HRH.R. 1280 (100th)reported

Medicare Part A Catastrophic Protection Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1987

Medicare Part A Catastrophic Protection Act of 1987 - Amends part A (Hospital Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to require that an inpatient hospital deductible be paid only for the first period of continuous hospitalization in a calendar year. (Currently, such deductible must be paid for each "spell of illness" requiring inpatient hospital services.) Removes durational limitations on the coverage of inpatient hospital services, except with respect to inpatient psychiatric hospital services. Eliminates the coinsurance requirement for inpatient hospital services. Sets the inpatient hospital deductible for 1987 at $520, requiring cost-of-living adjustments to such deductible for succeeding years. Establishes the monthly part A premium, required of individuals who wish to buy into the Hospital Insurance program, at the monthly actuarial value of part A services provided to beneficiaries age 65 and over. Imposes a coinsurance rate, equal to 20 percent of the average per diem cost of post-hospital extended care services, for the first seven days of an individual's receipt of such services in a calendar year. Provides coverage for post-hospital extended care services for 150 days in each calendar year. (Currently, such coverage is limited to 100 days for each "spell of illness.") Creates an extension period of hospice care for terminally ill beneficiaries which is to follow the two 90-day periods and the subsequent 30-day period of hospice care coverage currently provided in an individual's lifetime. Reduces the deductible imposed under part A on the first three pints of blood furnished to an individual during a calendar year to the extent such blood is replaced or a blood deductible has been imposed on the individual under part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of the Medicare program within such year. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require the inclusion within an individual's gross income of: (1) 50 percent of the actuarial value of part A services received, unless the individual became eligible for such services by paying a part A premium; and (2) the actuarial value of part B benefits received. Provides for the transfer of additional revenues resulting from the taxation of the value of Medicare services to the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund. Sets forth reporting requirements.

Bill· HRH.R. 1281 (100th)open

Medicare Part B Catastrophic Protection Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1987

Medicare Part B Catastrophic Protection Act of 1987 - Amends part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to cover all of the out-of-pocket part B expenses a beneficiary incurs in excess of $1,000 in 1988, adjusting such ceiling annually thereafter to reflect cost-of-living increases. Provides for the adjustment of Medicare payments to organizations providing health care on a prepaid basis so as to reimburse them for such excess out-of-pocket costs incurred on behalf of enrollees.