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Official portrait of Rep. Kennedy, Joseph P., II [D-MA-8]

Rep. Kennedy, Joseph P., II [D-MA-8]

United States · Official source

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2,121 records where Rep. Kennedy, Joseph P., II [D-MA-8] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 568 (100th)referred

A joint resolution to designate the period beginning July 25, 1988, and ending July 31, 1988, as "National Week of Recognition and Remembrance for Those Who Served in the Korean War".

United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1988

Designates the period of July 25 through July 31, 1988, as National Week of Recognition and Remembrance for Those Who Served in the Korean War. Authorizes and requests the President to urge that the American flag be flown at half staff on July 27, 1988, in honor of those Americans who died as a result of their service in Korea.

Bill· HRH.R. 4575 (100th)referred

Debt for Development Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1988

Debt for Development Act of 1988 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the use of up to $75,000,000 in loan repayments from developing countries in FY 1989 for development activities in those countries.

Bill· HRH.R. 4526 (100th)open

Manassas National Battlefield Park Amendments of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1988

Designates specified land as the Manassas National Battlefield Addition. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to acquire land within the boundaries of the Addition and to administer such lands as part of the Manassas National Battlefield Park, Virginia. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· HRH.R. 4498 (100th)open

Americans with Disabilities Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1988

Americans with Disabilities Act of 1988 - Provides that no person shall be subjected to discrimination on the basis of handicap in: (1) employment practices and training covered by title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; (2) the sale or rental of housing covered by title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968; (3) any public accommodation covered by title II of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; (4) transportation services; (5) the actions, practices, and operations of State and local governments; and (6) broadcasts, communications, or telecommunications services. Lists the forms of discrimination which are prohibited by this Act, including: (1) denying any person the opportunity to participate in or benefit from a service, program, job, or other opportunity on the basis of his or her handicap; (2) establishing (or failing to remove) any architectural, transportation, or communication barriers that prevent the access or limit the participation of persons because of their handicap; (3) failing or refusing to make a reasonable accommodation to permit a handicapped individual to have access to a program, activity, job, or opportunity; (4) imposing any unnecessary standard or criteria that screens out or places the handicapped at a disadvantage; and (5) denying services, programs, jobs, or other opportunities to any person because of that person's relationship to, or association with, a handicapped person. Permits the exclusion or denial of equal access to services, programs, jobs, or other opportunities to persons: (1) for reasons unrelated to the existence of their handicap; or (2) based upon the application of standards or criteria that are necessary and substantially related to the ability to perform essential components of the job, program, activity, or opportunity, and such performance can not be accomplished by a reasonable accommodation. States that it shall be an act of discrimination, in regard to housing, to discriminate in the sale or rental of a dwelling (or in the terms, conditions, or privileges of such sale or rental) to any buyer or renter because of the physical or mental impairment of: (1) the buyer or renter; (2) a person residing in, or intending to reside in, such dwelling; or (3) any person associated with the buyer or renter. States that it shall be an act of discrimination to: (1) refuse to permit reasonable modifications, at the expense of the handicapped person, to afford such person enjoyment of the premises; (2) refuse to make reasonable accommodation in rules, policies, practices, or services to afford handicapped individuals equal opportunity to use and enjoy the dwelling; or (3) fail to design and construct multifamily dwellings (after a specified date) which are not accessible to the handicapped. Provides certain limitations on the duties of accommodation and barrier removal. Sets forth guidelines for the establishment of requirements and promulgation of regulations by specified Federal entities with respect to: (1) the accessibility of buildings and transportation systems; (2) the implementation and enforcement of the requirements of this Act; (3) employment practices; (4) the sale and rental of housing; and (5) the removal of communication barriers. Establishes procedures for the administrative enforcement of the provisions of this Act. Establishes a civil right of action for individuals who are subjected to discrimination in violation of this Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 4479 (100th)referred

A bill to protect certain pensions and other benefits of veterans and survivors of veterans who are entitled to damages in the case of In re: "Agent Orange" Product Liability Litigation.

United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1988

Prohibits the Administrator of Veterans Affairs from taking into consideration any payment to any person pursuant to the settlement in the case of In re: "Agent Orange" Product Liability Litigation in determining: (1) eligibility to receive a veterans' pension; (2) the amount of any such pension; or (3) the amount of such person's attributable income for purposes of eligibility for certain medical benefits.

Bill· HRH.R. 4468 (100th)referred

Recycling Information Clearinghouse Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1988

Recycling Information Clearinghouse Act of 1988 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to require the Environmental Protection Agency to establish a clearinghouse for information about the recycling of municipal solid waste, to be administered by the Office of Solid Waste. Requires that the information collected and disseminated to the public by such clearinghouse include: (1) an annual estimate of the volume and rate of recycling of materials from the municipal solid waste stream; (2) an annual estimate of the balance of trade in recycled materials and products; (3) economic data comparing the costs and benefits of recycling various materials from the municipal solid waste stream; (4) a catalog of State and local laws that encourage or require the recycling of materials from the municipal solid waste stream; (5) a list of all purchases of recycled materials or products by the Federal Government, organized by agency and the type of recycled materials or products purchased; (6) a register announcing all solicitations by Federal agencies for the purchase of recycled materials or products; and (7) information about state-of-the-art recycling methods, programs, or technologies. Requires that a toll-free telephone hotline be established and made available to those seeking information from the clearinghouse. Provides that, to the extent feasible, such information should be computerized to facilitate its analysis and retrieval. Authorizes appropriations for such clearinghouse.

Bill· HRH.R. 4441 (100th)open

A bill to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require a health warning on the labels of bottles containing alcoholic beverages.

United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1988

Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require one of several specified health warnings to appear on the labels of bottles containing alcoholic beverages. Specifies required contents, including warnings relating alcohol consumption to birth defects, impairment of driving ability, hypertension, liver disease, and possible addiction. Directs that each such warning: (1) be in a conspicuous and prominent place on the container; (2) be randomly displayed by a manufacturer or packager in as equal a number of times as is possible on each brand of the beverage; and (3) be randomly distributed in all parts of the United States where such brand is marketed. Exempts from the foregoing requirements alcoholic beverages sold or distributed for export or for consumption outside the United States, except those sold or distributed to members of the U.S. armed forces located outside of the United States. Provides that compliance with the warning label requirements of this Act does not exempt any person from any common law duty to warn.

Bill· HRH.R. 4442 (100th)referred

Racial Justice Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1988

Racial Justice Act of 1988 - Prohibits the imposition or the carrying out of the death penalty in a racially disproportionate pattern. States that a racially disproportionate pattern occurs when the penalty of death is imposed: (1) more frequently upon persons of one race; or (2) more frequently as punishment for crimes against persons of one race. Provides that ordinary methods of statistical proof shall suffice to establish a racially disproportionate pattern. States that it shall not be necessary to show discriminatory motive, intent, or purpose on the part of any individual or institution. Establishes the requirements for a prima facie showing that a racially disproportionate pattern exists. States that the Government may rebut a prima facie showing by establishing by clear and convincing evidence that identifiable nondiscriminatory factors explain the racial disparities constituting the disproportion. Requires any State or Federal entity that provides for the imposition of the death penalty to collect and maintain pertinent data on the charging, disposition, and sentencing patterns for all cases of death-eligible crimes. Provides for the appointment of counsel for all indigent clients (and the furnishing of investigative and other services) for habeas corpus actions arising under this Act. Provides that no State court determination on the merits of a factual issue pertinent to a claim under this Act shall be presumed to be correct unless: (1) the State has collected and maintained the necessary death penalty data; and (2) the determination was made in a court proceeding where the defendant was afforded his rights required under this Act. States that the failure to raise such a claim before the enactment of this Act shall not bar future claims.

Bill· HRH.R. 4403 (100th)referred

A bill providing that the President shall terminate the sanctions imposed against Nicaragua under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1988

Declares that U.S. interests in achieving peace in Central America would be served best by a negotiated settlement such as that embodied in the Central American peace accord (Guatemala Accord). Directs the President to terminate the sanctions imposed on Nicaragua in 1985 under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and to take other steps to restore normal economic and trade relations with Nicaragua.

Bill· HRH.R. 4391 (100th)referred

A bill to amend the Controlled Substances Act to suppress the diversion and trafficking of chemicals utilized in the illicit manufacture of methamphetamine, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 14 April 1988

Amends the Controlled Substances Act to establish recordkeeping and reporting requirements for the manufacture, distribution, importation, and exportation of Phenyl acetone, Phenyl-2-propanone, Methylamine, and Ether (chemicals utilized in the manufacture of methamphetamine). Prohibits the distribution or exportation of such chemicals unless the recipient provides a certification of lawful use and proper identification. Establishes exemptions from such requirements: (1) for the distribution of such chemicals between agents or employees within a single facility; (2) for the delivery of such chemicals to or by common carriers; and (3) where the drug products containing such chemicals are lawfully marketed under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Establishes, with respect to such chemicals: (1) an import-export permit requirement; and (2) a declaration requirement. States that any person convicted of certain Controlled Substances Act violations relating to the receipt of such chemicals shall be enjoined from conducting business activities with such chemicals for a minimum of ten years.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 277 (100th)open

Salvadoran Foreign Assistance Reform Resolution

United States · United States Congress · 12 April 1988

Salvadoran Foreign Assistance Reform Resolution - Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the U.S. foreign assistance program for El Salvador should be revised to promote a negotiated settlement and a reduction of human suffering; (2) the ratio of assistance should be reversed in FY 1989 so that the amount spent on the war effort is only one-third of the amount spent for reform and development activities; (3) such assistance should not be distributed in a manner which would promote the interests of any particular political party; (4) such assistance should be distributed through church-related and other nongovernmental organizations and international organizations selected by the Agency for International Development; and (5) the President should report quarterly to the Congress on the restructuring of such assistance, the economic results of such restructuring, and any reports of corruption in its distribution.

Bill· HRH.R. 4351 (100th)open

McKinney Housing and Shelter for the Homeless Reauthorization Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1988

McKinney Housing and Shelter for the Homeless Reauthorization Act of 1988 - Amends the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act to make certain housing assistance and emergency food and shelter audits an annual requirement. (Currently only two such audits are required.) Authorizes FY 1989 and 1990 appropriations for the Interagency Council on the Homeless. Extends such Council through October 1, 1990. Authorizes FY 1989 and 1990 appropriations for the Federal emergency management food and shelter program. Authorizes FY 1989 and 1990 appropriations for the emergency shelter program. Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to report annually to the Congress regarding the supportive housing demonstration program. (Currently only two such reports are required.) Authorizes FY 1989 and 1990 appropriations for such program. Authorizes FY 1989 and 1990 appropriations for supplemental assistance for facilities for the homeless. Increases FY 1989 and 1990 budget authority for section 8 assistance for single room occupancy dwellings. Makes religious organizations eligible (under specified conditions) to receive housing assistance under such Act or community development block grant funds under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. Requires the Secretary to issue implementing regulations. Specifies the time period for the Secretary to identify public buildings and property suitable to assist the homeless.

Law· HRH.R. 4352 (100th)enacted

Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Amendments Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1988

Omnibus McKinney Homeless Assistance Act of 1988 - Title I: General Provisions - Amends the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act (the Act) to require the Comptroller General to make annual audits of Federal emergency management food and shelter and housing assistance programs. Title II: Interagency Council on the Homeless - Amends the Act to authorize appropriations through FY 1990 for the Interagency Council on the Homeless. Extends such Council through FY 1990. Title III: Federal Emergency Management Food and Shelter Program - Amends the Act to authorize appropriations through FY 1990 for the Federal emergency management food and shelter program. Title IV: Housing Assistance - Amends the Act to authorize appropriations through FY 1990 for the emergency shelter grants program. Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to report annually to the Congress regarding the supportive housing demonstration program. Authorizes program appropriations through FY 1990. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1990 for supplemental assistance for facilities to assist the homeless. Increases budget authority for section 8 assistance (low-income housing) for single room occupancy dwellings. Makes religious organizations or organizations with religious affiliations meeting specified conditions eligible to receive housing assistance under this title and community development block grants under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. Title V: Identification and Use of Surplus Federal Property - Amends the Act to require the Secretary to identify Federal properties to use to aid the homeless within two months of collecting such information. Title VI: Health Care for the Homeless - Subtitle A: Categorical Grants for Primary Health Services and Substance Abuse Services - Amends the Public Health Service Act to limit Federal matching funds after the first fiscal year to 66-2/3 percent of service costs with regard to grants for health assistance for the homeless. (Current law provides for 75 percent Federal funding.) Authorizes the continued provision for up to 12 months of certain health (including mental health) services to former homeless persons currently living in permanent housing. Includes persons living in transitional housing within the definition of "homeless individual" for purposes of such grants. Authorizes appropriations for such grants through FY 1991. Subtitle B: Block Grant for Community Mental Health Services - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize appropriations through FY 1991 for community mental health services block grants. Subtitle C: Authorization of Appropriations for Community Demonstration Projects - Amends the Act to authorize additional appropriations through FY 1991 for mental health services for homeless persons with chronic mental illness. Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize appropriations through FY 1991 for alcohol and drug abuse treatment for homeless persons. Subtitle D: General Provisions - Sets forth effective dates for specified provisions of this title. Title VII: Education, Training, and Community Services Programs - Amends the Act to authorize appropriations through FY 1990 for the following programs for the homeless: (1) adult education; (2) education for children and youth; (3) exemplary education programs and related information dissemination; (4) job training, including a specified obligation for veterans' reintegration projects; and (5) the emergency community services homeless grant program. Title VIII: Food Assistance for the Homeless - Amends the Temporary Emergency Food Assistance Act of 1983 to make excess Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) flour, cheese, and cornmeal available through 1990. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1990 for the temporary emergency food assistance program (TEFAP) including storage and distribution costs. Increases amounts obligated for emergency feeding organizations. Extends the termination date for such programs from September 30, 1988, to September 30, 1990. Title IX: Veterans Programs - Authorizes additional appropriations through FY 1990 for veterans' medical care, including specified amounts for domiciliary care and for chronically mentally ill homeless veterans. Authorizes additional appropriations through FY 1990 (to remain available through FY 1991) for veterans' job training. Title X: Aid to Families With Dependent Children and Related Programs - Amends part A (Aid to Families with Dependent Children) of title IV of the Social Security Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to reduce Federal matching aid to families with dependent children (AFDC) in a jurisdiction where substantial progress is not being made toward reducing the number of AFDC families living in commercial or similar transient accommodations. Authorizes the Secretary to approve demonstration projects through FY 1990 under which States encourage landlords to make permanent shelter available to families receiving AFDC housing assistance by paying rent for such shelter for the first year at the rate paid for comparable commercial or similar transient accommodations and for the remainder of the lease at the applicable AFDC housing allowance.

Bill· HRH.R. 4335 (100th)open

National Biological Diversity Conservation and Environmental Research Act

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1988

National Biological Diversity Conservation and Environmental Research Act - States that the conservation of biological diversity is a national priority. Requires Federal actions to be consistent with such goal. Amends the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 to require that environmental impact statements on proposed Federal actions include any impacts on biological diversity. Directs the President's Council on Environmental Quality to: (1) establish guidelines for consideration of biological diversity in the preparation of environmental impact statements; and (2) identify those biotic communities, species, and populations that appear to be in decline, in imminent danger of loss of viability, or otherwise of special concern. Establishes a National Center for Biological Diversity and Environmental Research (Center) responsible for: (1) coordinating the collection of data pertaining to the national biota and supplementing and disseminating such information; (2) arranging and conducting surveys and supplementary research of the national biota; and (3) enhancing the application of biological data to the conservation of biological diversity. Requires the Center to report annually to the President and the Congress regarding its activities. Establishes an Interagency Working Committee on Biological Diversity responsible for preparing and implementing a coordinated Federal strategy for conservation of biological diversity. Sets forth the required contents of such strategy which must be completed within two years of this Act's enactment. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes each agency represented on the Interagency Committee to provide grants to public agencies, private individuals, and organizations for projects to maintain or restore biological diversity. Requires that such grants be matched on at least an equal basis by the grantee, except when the grantee is a State. Directs each agency, other than the Council on Environmental Quality, represented on the Interagency Committee to: (1) give high priority to research and personnel training directed towards implementation of the Strategy; and (2) assess the adequacy of its environmental research and training programs. Establishes, on a permanent basis, a National Scientific Advisory Committee on Biological Diversity which shall: (1) advise the Interagency Committee in the preparation of the Strategy; (2) assist in the coordination of interaction between the Interagency Committee and the Center; (3) assist in the evaluation of the impacts of proposed Federal activities on biological diversity; (4) review Federal progress toward implementing the Strategy; and (5) serve as a general reference and advisory resource for the Nation in matters relating to conservation of biological diversity. Authorizes appropriations for the activities of the Center and the grant program for FY 1989 through 1991.

Bill· HRH.R. 4341 (100th)referred

Legalization Extension Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1988

Legalization Extension Act of 1988 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to extend the legalization program to aliens who entered the United States before March 31, 1988. Extends the program application period for a one-year period beginning on the date of enactment of this Act. Authorizes additional appropriations for disseminating program information to the public.

Bill· HRH.R. 4325 (100th)open

Medical Testing Improvement Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1988

Medical Testing Improvement Act of 1988 - Amends title III (General Powers and Duties) of the Public Health Service Act to remove references to interstate commerce from provisions prohibiting operating a laboratory without a license issued by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Repeals provisions exempting from statutes regulating laboratories those laboratories operated by physicians, osteopaths, dentists, or podiatrists solely as an adjunct to the treatment of their own patients. Requires an annual inspection of laboratories to insure compliance with standards issued by the Secretary. Requires laboratories to qualify under a quarterly proficiency testing program established by the Secretary, including testing for each category of test which the laboratory is authorized to perform under its license. Requires the Secretary to maintain a technical and staff capacity to provide training and technical assistance to laboratories requesting such service and to laboratories which do not qualify under the proficiency testing program. Allows the proficiency testing to be performed by a private entity only if the entity meets standards established by the Centers for Disease Control. Requires the Secretary to maintain the capacity to conduct the testing. Makes laboratory licenses issued by the Secretary valid for one year instead of three years. Removes the cap on the fee for issuance or renewal of licenses. Directs the Secretary to make grants to a State which enacts laws providing for standards equal to or more stringent than under the provisions amended by this Act to assist the State in implementing the laws.

Bill· HRH.R. 4292 (100th)open

Emergency Housing Assistance Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1988

Emergency Housing Assistance Act of 1988 - Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make emergency mortgage relief payments on behalf of certain delinquent mortgagors in a district when, for three consecutive months, the amount of delinquent mortgage loans exceeds a specified percentage of the amount of all loans accounted for in the mortgage delinquency series maintained by the Federal Home Loan Bank Board. Provides for the discontinuation and reinstitution of such program depending on delinquency rates. Directs the Secretary to notify the mortgagees of the institution or reinstitution of such a program in that district. Lists program eligibility conditions, including requirements that: (1) the mortgage is not federally insured under the Housing Act of 1949; (2) the mortgagor has suffered a substantial reduction in income, other than as a result of repeated or felonious misconduct, which renders the mortgagor unable to correct a mortgage delinquency or to resume full mortgage payments; (3) the average aggregate annual income of the mortgagor and family members residing with the mortgagor does not exceed a specified amount; (4) the mortgagor has cooperated with any attempt by the mortgagee to establish a reasonable repayment plan; (5) the Secretary has determined that assistance is necessary to avoid foreclosure and that it is likely that the mortgagor will be able to resume full mortgage payments within 36 months and pay the mortgage in full by its maturity date; and (6) the property serving the mortgage is a one-to-four-family principal residence. Requires each mortgagee, at least 30 days before instituting any foreclosure proceeding, to assist the mortgagor involved in applying for assistance under this Act, unless the mortgagor waives such assistance. Prohibits a mortgagee from instituting foreclosure proceedings until it receives notice of the Secretary's decision on such application. Allows a mortgagor to apply for assistance after foreclosure proceedings have begun, in which event such proceedings shall be stayed pending the Secretary's decision. Declares that failure to comply with these provisions shall be the basis of an action to enjoin a foreclosure. States that assistance payments shall: (1) be made from the Homeowners Emergency Relief Fund; (2) not exceed amounts necessary to supplement mortgagor contributions; and (3) be provided for up to 18 months, with an 18-month extension as necessary. Directs the Secretary to establish procedures for ascertaining the mortgagor's financial circumstances to determine whether such payments should be adjusted or terminated. Secures assistance payments under this Act through property liens. Directs the Secretary to: (1) provide homeownership counseling to persons assisted under this Act; and (2) approve or disapprove an application for assistance within 45 days. Establishes in the Treasury the Homeowners Emergency Relief Fund to carry out the provisions of this Act. Authorizes FY 1989 appropriations and limits expenditures for assistance under this Act. Requires the Secretary and certain Federal agencies which supervise financial institutions to: (1) encourage such institutions to exercise forbearance with respect to residential mortgages; and (2) waive or relax limitations pertaining to operations of such institutions or mortgagees with respect to mortgage delinquencies. Directs the Federal home loan banks, the Federal Reserve banks, and the National Credit Union Administration to give special consideration to advance, discount, or credit applications of the institutions or borrowers that have exercised forbearance in residential mortgage foreclosures. Requires the Secretary to report annually to the Congress regarding: (1) the rate of delinquencies and foreclosures in various housing markets; (2) the prospects of voluntary forbearance by mortgagees in such areas; (3) Government actions to encourage such forbearance and to provide assistance under this title; and (4) the default status of mortgages on multifamily properties with recommendations on curing and avoiding such defaults. Directs the Secretary to study and report to the Congress on whether the use of a mortgage delinquency series different from the one specified in this Act would be more effective. Repeals title I (Emergency Homeowners Relief Act) of the Emergency Housing Act of 1975.

Bill· HRH.R. 4268 (100th)referred

A bill to amend chapter 44 of title 18, United States Code, to prohibit the manufacture, assembly, importation, sale, possession, transfer, receipt, shipment, or delivery of firearms not detectable by metal detection and X-ray systems commonly used at airports in the United States, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1988

Amends the Federal criminal code to make it unlawful for any person to manufacture, assemble, import, sell, possess, receive, ship, or deliver any firearm which is not: (1) as detectable as the Minimum Security Standard Exemplar, after the removal of grips, stocks, and magazines, by walk-through metal detectors calibrated and operated in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards for use at U.S. airports; or (2) impregnated with barium sulfate, or a similar compound, to facilitate detectability by cabinet x-ray systems. States that nothing in this Act shall require: (1) the FAA to utilize the Minimum Security Standard Exemplar as a FAA detection standard; or (2) that a firearm be made of any particular material or be of any particular weight as long as the detectability standard is met. States that firearms manufactured before the date of enactment of this Act, and the frame or receiver of any firearm, shall be excluded from coverage under this Act. Prohibits the Secretary of the Treasury from authorizing the importation of undetectable firearms. Provides increased criminal penalties for using or carrying an undetectable firearm during the commission of a crime of violence or a drug trafficking crime. Defines the term "Minimum Security Standard Exemplar" to mean a firearm substitute used for testing that resembles a revolver, is made of material type 17-4 PH stainless, and weighs four ounces. Directs the Administrator of the FAA to conduct research to improve the effectiveness of airport security metal detectors and airport security x-ray systems. Directs the Administrator of the FAA, the Director of the Secret Service, and the Director of the Marshals Service to conduct a study to identify available equipment capable of detecting the Minimum Security Standard Exemplar while distinguishing innocuous metal objects. Allows the Secretary, when appropriate because of changed technology, to submit proposed legislation to amend the definition of Minimum Security Standard Exemplar.

Bill· HRH.R. 4277 (100th)referred

Global Poverty Reduction Act

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1988

Global Poverty Reduction Act - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to direct the President to develop a plan to ensure that U.S. development assistance contributes measurably toward eradicating the worst aspects of absolute poverty by the year 2000. Requires that such plan include target dates for reaching specific measurable goals whose attainment would contribute to direct improvements in the living standards of the poorest 40 percent of the population. Specifies that such goals shall include reducing the mortality rate of infants under age five, increasing the female literacy rate, and reducing the percentages of populations below the absolute poverty level by specified amounts by the year 2000. Directs that primary emphasis of development activities to restore the renewable natural resource base shall be on small-scale, affordable, low-risk local projects featuring close consultation with, and involvement of, local people at all stages of project design and implementation. Requires the President to submit the plan to the Congress by July 1, 1989. Requires all U.S. development assistance to be directed at attaining plan goals between October 1, 1989, and December 31, 2000. Requires the President to submit annual reports to the Congress detailing progress toward achieving plan goals. Directs the Comptroller General to review and comment on each report issued. Directs the President to host an international development conference for heads of governments of development assistance donor and recipient countries by October 16, 1989, to conclude an international agreement on eliminating the worst aspects of absolute poverty by the year 2000.

Bill· HRH.R. 4231 (100th)open

Marine Research Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1988

Marine Research Act of 1988 - Amends the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 to authorize the establishment of Regional Marine Research Centers (Centers) to plan, coordinate, and support research, monitoring, and assessment activities concerned with the quality of the marine environment. Authorizes the Governors of a majority of States in a marine research region to develop and submit for approval to the Marine Research Coordination Board (Board) a combined, interstate proposal for a Center which identifies the research organizations which will participate in the Center and the goals of such Center. Identifies the marine research regions as the Gulf of Maine, Greater New York Bight, Mid-Atlantic Bight, Tropical, Gulf of Mexico, Southern California Bight, North Pacific, Gulf of Alaska and Arctic Seas, Insular Pacific, and Great Lakes Regions. Requires each Center to develop and submit for the Board's approval every three years a marine research plan which: (1) identifies research needs and priorities in the region over the next ten years; (2) inventories all federally-funded projects regarding the marine environment expected to be conducted in the region during the three-year term of the plan; (3) explains the means by which the Center will select and supervise projects to be funded under this Act; (4) describes each project expected to be assisted with appropriations authorized pursuant to this Act; and (5) lists the equipment and supplies used commonly for research projects in the region. Authorizes the Board to make annual administrative, research, and equipment grants to Centers which submit applications for such grants. Sets forth reporting requirements. Requires each Center to support baseline monitoring of fundamental marine environmental conditions and submit periodic reports on the status of marine environmental quality and resources in the region to the Board. Requires that such reports be made available to the public, State Governors, and local, State, and Federal agencies. Authorizes the establishment of the Marine Research Coordination Board at the Federal level to manage and coordinate the efforts of the Centers and report periodically to the Congress on the activities and findings of such Centers. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1993.

Bill· HRH.R. 4213 (100th)referred

Montgomery GI Bill Amendments of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1988

Montgomery GI Bill Amendments of 1988 - Directs the Administrator of Veterans Affairs to make payments to veterans who are entitled to veterans' educational assistance but who have become so physically or mentally handicapped that such individuals are unable to utilize such educational assistance. Directs the Administrator to make such payments to a qualifying veteran's survivors in the event of a veteran's death while on active duty or within six years of such individual's discharge, according to a certain order of priority. Deducts the amount of educational assistance received by the veteran before enactment of this Act from the amount to be paid under this Act. Authorizes entitlement to basic educational assistance for veterans who are discharged or released from active duty for a disability that existed before becoming or entering into active duty as a member of the armed forces. (Currently, such entitlement is limited to those discharged or released for either a service-connected disability or for hardship.) Authorizes the same entitlement for members discharged or released from the Selected Reserve. Authorizes the Administrator to approve the pursuit of flight training by an individual entitled to basic educational assistance if such training meets conditions specified in this Act. Specifies the amount of flight assistance to be provided. Directs the Administrator to pay educational assistance for refresher courses in the individual's area of education, deficiency courses, or other preparatory or special educational assistance necessary to enable the individual to pursue an approved program of education. Limits the length of such payments for refresher courses. Allows an individual currently on active duty who originally chose not to receive basic educational assistance to enroll in such program within 60 days after the enactment of this Act. Outlines provisions relating to the implementation of such enrollment, including "catch-up" payments or deductions from pay in order to receive such educational assistance. Requires a certain minimum payment or pay deduction before an individual becomes so qualified. Directs the Secretary of each military department to inform individuals of the opportunity to enroll for such assistance under this Act. Prohibits the payment of any basic educational assistance to members of the Selected Reserve until such members have completed their initial periods of active duty for training required by the military department concerned. (Currently, such members must complete such training plus serve in the reserves for at least 180 days before being eligible.) Authorizes the Administrator to approve the pursuit of flight training by a member of the Selected Reserve who is entitled to basic educational assistance, if such training meets conditions specified in this Act. Specifies the amount of flight assistance to be provided. Provides that educational assistance may only be provided for an approved program of education for purposes of the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program. (Currently, such assistance may be provided for a program of education at an institution of higher learning and may not be provided for post-graduate study.) Limits the amount of monthly educational assistance to be provided to an individual pursuing a full-time program of apprenticeship or other on-the-job training. Reduces the amount of assistance provided in any month in which such individual fails to complete at least 120 hours of training. Provides a limited educational assistance payment as determined by the Administrator for individuals participating in a less-than-half-time pursuit of a program of education. Provides that an individual serving in the Selected Reserve may not receive credit for such service under both veterans' educational assistance provisions and the All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program, but shall instead elect the program to which such service is to be credited. Revises provisions concerning the time limitation applicable for the use of basic educational assistance by a member of the Selected Reserve who is separated from such service because of a disability incurred on or after the date on which such person became entitled to educational assistance. Directs the Secretary of Defense, at the request of the Administrator, to transmit a notice of entitlement for each such person becoming eligible for educational assistance to the Administrator.

Bill· HRH.R. 4193 (100th)referred

Federal Nuclear Facilities Environmental Restoration and Management Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1988

Federal Nuclear Facilities Environmental Restoration and Management Act - Title I: Federal Nuclear Facility Trust Fund - Establishes the Federal Nuclear Facilities Environmental Restoration and Management Trust Fund (the Fund). Authorizes appropriations for such fund for FY 1989 through 1991. Outlines a funding mechanism which includes transfers from general Treasury funds and penalties assessed under specified environmental statutes. Outlines Fund administration procedure. Authorizes Fund expenditures for specified hazardous waste response actions and other grant, research, and development programs under this Act. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to report to the Congress on an annual fiscal year basis regarding the Fund's financial condition. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop within one year after enactment of this Act an allocation and cost recovery methodology; and (2) assess user fees on certain commercial and non-Federal entities. Title II: Compliance by DOE Facilities with Superfund and Solid Waste Disposal Act - Requires the Secretary of Energy (the Secretary) to enter into a compliance agreement with the Environmental Protection Agency Administrator (the Administrator) (or with certain State delegatees) with respect to Federal nuclear facility compliance with the Solid Waste Disposal Act and the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Amends CERCLA to include within the definition of "hazardous substance" byproduct, source or special nuclear material generated, stored, or released as either a waste product or in connection with an atomic energy defense activity at a site under the Secretary's jurisdiction. Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to include within its purview any source, special nuclear, or byproduct material that is combined with certain hazardous waste. Places certain Federal nuclear sites under the concurrent authority of the Solid Waste Disposal Act and CERCLA. States that permits issued to contractors for the operation of Federal nuclear facilities shall be deemed to be issued and held jointly with the United States. Declares that no immunity applicable to the United States or its officers, employees, or agents shall apply to such contractors. Sets forth a mandatory notification and participation procedure under which the Secretary and the Administrator must consult with affected States and Indian tribes regarding Federal nuclear facility compliance with this Act. Requires the Administrator to make grants to such States and Indian tribes to participate in, and monitor, Federal activities under this Act. Title III: Compliance by DOE Facilities with Other Environmental Laws - Requires the Secretary to complete an environmental survey of each Federal nuclear facility site within one year after the date of enactment. Requires the Administrator to review such surveys and issue environmental compliance plans for such sites within six months of survey completion. Outlines the compliance procedure. Requires the Administrator to report annually to the Congress regarding Federal nuclear facility site's environmental compliance plans. Requires the Secretary to: (1) enter into an environmental compliance plan response agreement with the Administrator within six months of each Federal nuclear facility site's compliance plan completion; and (2) prepare a site management plan for each Federal nuclear facility within 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act. Outlines the contents of such plan. Title IV: Special Environmental Counsel - Requires the Administrator to appoint a Special Environmental Counsel, as an independent instrumentality within the Environmental Protection Agency, to investigate alleged violations of Federal environmental law by any Federal facility or faculity operated by a contractor under contract with the Federal Government. Sets forth enforcement procedures, including the assessment of civil penalties and suspension of permits. Requires such Counsel to report annually to the Congress. Provides for the waiver of sovereign immunity for purposes of enforcing any substantive or procedural Federal environmental statutory requirement against a U.S. agency or instrumentality. Title V: Research and Development for Environmental Restoration and Management of Federal Nuclear Facilities - Requires the Administrator and the Secretary to enter into a joint agreement to coordinate research and development technologies for Federal nuclear site activities regarding: (1) application of and compliance with Federal environmental requirements; (2) facility decontamination and decommissioning; and (3) hazardous nuclear material characterization, treatment, and stabilization. Requires the Secretary and Administrator to: (1) submit to the Office of Management and Budget annual Federal nuclear facilities environmental research and development budget requests; (2) fund the jointly established research and development program from the Trust Fund; (3) jointly establish an information and technologies transfer program for commercial application. Authorizes the Secretary and the Administrator to enter into contracts and provide research grants.

Bill· HRH.R. 4190 (100th)referred

A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to construct or improve facilities for the conduct of nursing research by institutions of higher education.

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1988

Amends title IV (National Research Institutes) of the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the National Center for Nursing Research to acquire, construct, improve, or repair laboratories and other research facilities to increase the capacity of institutions of higher education to conduct nursing research. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants and enter into contracts for such purposes. Requires the Director, from amounts appropriated under this Act, to reserve 15 percent to carry out such purposes through grants to, and contracts with, institutions that received less than an aggregate of a specified amount in Federal financial assistance for research and development in the preceding two fiscal years. Requires matching funds, in cash or in kind, from non-Federal sources. Directs the Secretary to require technical and scientific peer review of applications for grants and contracts. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991.

Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 510 (100th)referred

A joint resolution to designate January 26, 1989, as "Sean MacBride Day".

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1988

Designates January 26, 1989, as Sean MacBride Day, marking the 85th anniversary of the birth of the late Sean MacBride, cofounder of Amnesty International and sponsor of the MacBride Principles opposing religious discrimination in Northern Ireland.

Law· HRH.R. 4189 (100th)enacted

Marine Mammal Protection Act Amendments of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1988

Amends the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 to extend through FY 1993 the authorization of appropriations to the Department of Commerce, the Department of the Interior, and the Marine Mammal Commission to carry out specified functions under such Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 4168 (100th)referred

Reproductive Health Equity Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1988

Reproductive Health Equity Act - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act, the Indian Health Care Improvement Act, the Peace Corps Act, the District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act, and other Federal laws covering armed forces personnel and dependents, certain veterans, Federal employees' health benefits, and Federal penal and correctional institutions to provide that services related to abortion be made available in the same manner as are other pregnancy-related services under federally funded programs.

Bill· HRH.R. 4150 (100th)referred

Postal Reorganization Act Amendments of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1988

Postal Reorganization Act of 1988 - Declares that the receipts and disbursements of the Postal Service Fund: (1) shall not be included in the totals of the Federal budget or the congressional budget; (2) shall be exempt from Federal budget limitations on expenditures and net lending; and (3) shall not be counted for purposes of calculating the Federal deficit. Repeals certain limitations on postal borrowing authority. Increases the limitations on postal borrowing authority.

Bill· HRH.R. 4136 (100th)referred

AIDS Health Care Financing Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1988

AIDS Health Care Financing Act of 1988 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), and the Public Health Service Act to extend the maximum required period of continuation coverage of group health plans from 18 months to 29 months for an individual determined, under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) or title XVI (Supplemental Security Income) of the Social Security Act, to have been disabled at the time of termination or reduction in hours. Increases the premium which plans are permitted to require for continuation coverage from 102 percent to 152 percent of the applicable premium for the period for any month after the 18th month of continuation coverage after terminations, reduced hours, or multiple qualifying events. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to permit States to pay expenses of an individual eligible for benefits under its plan for premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, or similar costs for health coverage offered by the individual's employer, including continuation coverage. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide for a three-year program of grants to States to assist in paying premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and similar costs for continuation coverage for individuals who were disabled at the time of termination of employment. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991. Provides that when the Secretary allows a State Medicaid plan to provide for payment for individuals with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or an AIDS-related condition, for home or community-based services such as home health care, personal care services, case management services, outpatient mental health treatment, and outpatient substance abuse treatment, the Federal medical assistance percentage shall not be less than 75 percent. Declares that nothing in title XIX of the Social Security Act shall be construed as preventing a State from establishing differential payment rates for providers to reflect the additional costs of providing services to patients with AIDS or an AIDS-related condition. Directs the Secretary to provide for up to four Regional AIDS Treatment Demonstration Projects for individuals with AIDS and AIDS-related conditions in areas which do not have a disproportionate number of such individuals. Requires the projects to incorporate innovative approaches to the delivery of necessary services, particularly focusing on community-based services. Requires each project to provide for case management services and community-based services. Sets forth considerations in selection of projects. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991. Sets forth reporting requirements. Directs the Secretary to establish up to six Demonstration HIV Monitoring and Treatment Centers for individuals diagnosed as infected with a virus related to the development of AIDS but who have not developed AIDS. Sets forth terms and conditions relating to the imposition of charges for services, the development of model clinical treatment plans, and confidentiality of records. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991. Directs the Secretary to provide financial assistance to up to four local projects which have established AIDS prevention and treatment services to permit the projects to assist entities in developing and establishing similar local projects in other areas. Allows the assistance to be used for staff, overhead, and the preparation and reproduction of educational materials. Prohibits use of the assistance for AIDS prevention and treatment services. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991. Directs the Secretary to provide financial assistance to local governments which demonstrate a disproportionate share of: (1) residents with AIDS or an AIDS-related condition; or (2) expenditures from local funds for treatment of such syndrome or condition. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991.

Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 490 (100th)referred

A joint resolution making emergency supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1988, for urgently needed assistance for the homeless as authorized in the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act.

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1988

Title I: Housing and Urban Development - Makes FY 1988 supplemental appropriations for the following Department of Housing and Urban Development homeless programs authorized by the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act: (1) single room occupancy dwelling rehabilitation; (2) emergency shelter grants; (3) supportive housing demonstration program; and (4) supplemental assistance for facilities to assist the homeless. Makes FY 1988 supplemental appropriations for the Federal Emergency Management Agency's emergency food and shelter program. Title II: Health and Human Services - Makes FY 1988 supplemental appropriations for the following Department of Health and Human Services homeless programs authorized by the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act: (1) health services; (2) community mental health services (alcohol, drug abuse, and mental health); and (3) emergency community services.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 262 (100th)open

A concurrent resolution to express the sense of the Congress that the Secretary of Transportation should conduct a full investigation into the management of Texas Air Corporation and Eastern Air Lines since Eastern's acquisition by Texas Air Corporation.

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1988

Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Secretary of Transportation (the Secretary) should: (1) investigate the management of Texas Air Corporation and Eastern Air Lines since the acquisition of Eastern by Texas Air to determine (according to prescribed guidelines) the effect of such management upon the public interest; (2) use the investigation findings as a basis for decisions in pending and future cases involving proposed changes in domestic and international operations of Eastern; (3) not authorize the operation of any entity as a subsidiary of Texas Air in performing any air transportation operations until completion of a review to determine whether such performance is consistent with the public interest; (4) not authorize any Texas Air subsidiary to engage in air transportation until the application for such certificate has been reviewed; (5) not authorize Orion Air to provide contract services with Eastern unless Orion establishes conclusively its capability of conducting such operations with the highest degree of safety; (6) not expedite consideration of Orion's request to operate under contract with Eastern by diverting employees of the Department of Transportation or the Federal Aviation Administration from their responsibilities of ensuring the safety of previously authorized operations; and (7) require, as a condition of any approval of Orion's request to operate under contract with Eastern, that purchasers of tickets for such service must be informed at the time of making reservations of the identity of the carrier having operational responsibility for such service.

Bill· HRH.R. 4087 (100th)referred

Permanent Resident Adjustment Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1988

Permanent Resident Adjustment Act of 1988 - Directs the Attorney General to adjust to permanent resident the status of certain aliens who arrived in the United States before September 1, 1987, and who have continuously resided in the United States since such date. Provides that the Secretary of State and Attorney General, respectively, shall not be required to: (1) reduce the number of immigrant visas issued under the Immigration and Nationality Act because an alien is granted permanent resident status under this Act; and (2) charge the alien any fee.

Bill· HRH.R. 4049 (100th)open

Women in Development Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1988

Women in Development Act of 1988 - Requires the Administrator of the Agency for International Development (AID) to take specific steps to strengthen the Agency's women in development policy, including: (1) incorporating the active participation of local women and local women's organizations in its development activities; (2) instructing Agency staff and contractors to collect sex-disaggregated data and to insure that country strategies, projects, and programs are designed so that the percentage of women receiving assistance in proportion to the higher of their traditional participation in the targeted activities or their proportion of the population; (3) insuring that project and program evaluations include an assessment of the extent to which the project integrates women in the development process and of the project's impact on women; (4) increasing the number and responsibility of women in professional positions within AID; and (5) establishing within AID a task force on women in development. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to require that a minimum (currently, maximum) of $10,000,000 in 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. Requires the Administrator to report to the Congress annually on the implementation of this Act. Authorizes appropriations to be made available for the United Nations Development Fund for Women and the United Nations International Research and Training Institute for the Advancement of Women.

Bill· HRH.R. 4026 (100th)referred

Consumer Banking Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1988

Consumer Banking Act of 1988 - Title I: Consumer Access to Depository Institutions - Consumer Access to Depository Institutions Act - Requires every depository institution to make available to consumers a basic consumer checking account. Sets forth minimum requirements of such an account, including: (1) initial deposit, balance, and withdrawal terms; (2) maximum fees for transactions, dishonored checks, or stopping payments; (3) the prohibition of fees for making deposits, maintaining the account, inactivity of the account, balance inquiries, or early closure of the account; and (4) the provision of monthly statements. Requires depository institutions to make products or services available to consumers with such a basic account on the same basis as such products or services are made available to other transaction account holders. Allows depository institutions to refuse to open any other transaction account for the holder of a basic consumer checking account and to assess the customary account-related fees if the monthly balance in a basic consumer checking account exceeds $750. Prohibits depository institutions from requiring that a consumer have another account or a credit card issued by the institution before opening a basic consumer checking account or imposing any other requirement that would tend to discriminate against low-income consumers. Requires all depository institutions to cash Federal, State, and local government checks of consumers: (1) to whom such checks are issued; and (2) who are registered with such institution according to regulations prescribed by the Federal Reserve Board. Sets forth requirements for such regulations. Requires depository institutions to post notices describing such basic consumer checking account and government check cashing services. Sets forth provisions for the administrative enforcement for requirements of this title. Sets forth civil penalties for violations of such requirements. Title II: Commercial Loan Disclosure - Home Mortgage Disclosure Amendments of 1988 - Amends the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act of 1975 to require depository institutions to maintain records and make public disclosures of the number and total dollar amount of commercial loans originated by or purchased by such an institution during each fiscal year. (Present law requires such disclosure only for mortgage loans.) Requires the itemization of small business loans in such public disclosures. Title III: Financial Consumers' Associations - Financial Consumers' Association Act - Authorizes the establishment in each State of a public purpose, democratically controlled, membership association of financial service consumers. Specifies that such an association may not be established in a State unless petitions in support of the establishment of such an association have been signed by a number of registered voters equal to at least one percent of the State's population or 50,000. Sets forth procedures for the verification and certification of such petitions. Specifies that such an association shall be a nonprofit corporation and may not issue any shares of stock or other securities or pay any dividends. Provides that the membership of an association shall consist of individuals who: (1) are 18 years of age or older; (2) are residents of the State in which the association is incorporated; and (3) have contributed the required annual membership fee to the association. Specifies that such an association shall not be deemed to be an agency, establishment, or instrumentality of the Federal Government or of any State government. Requires the dissolution of such an association if the membership remains below 500 during any one-year period. Allows for the subsequent establishment of a new association. Specifies that the duties of such an association shall be to: (1) inform, educate, and advise consumers and others on financial service matters; (2) represent and promote the interests of consumers in financial service matters; (3) take affirmative measures to encourage membership by low and moderate income and minority consumers, to disseminate information and advice to such consumers, and to represent their interests in financial matters; and (4) inform consumers about the association, including procedures for obtaining membership. Specifies additional powers of such an association, including: (1) representing the interests of consumers in financial service matters before regulatory agencies, legislative bodies, and other public forums; (2) suing on behalf of any member or group of members for judicial relief in regard to any financial service matter; and (3) negotiating on behalf of financial service consumers with financial service providers. Specifies that such an association shall have all the rights, powers, and duties generally accorded to and imposed upon nonprofit corporations by the laws of the State in which it is incorporated. Prohibits such an association from endorsing or making any contributions to any political party or any candidate for any elected public office. Requires every federally-insured depository institution to include in its deposit account statements mailed to customers a notice concerning the availability of membership in such an association. Specifies the form and content of such notice. Sets forth requirements concerning membership on the board of directors of such an association, the election of directors, and general administrative provisions concerning the operation of such an association. Sets forth a civil penalty for any violation of this Act. Specifies that this Act shall not be deemed to limit the right of any individual or group to participate in any proceeding before a regulatory agency or court.

Bill· HRH.R. 4022 (100th)referred

Community Benefits Banking Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1988

Community Benefits Banking Act of 1988 - Title I: Community Benefits Amendments - Community Benefits Amendments of 1988 - Amends the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 and the National Housing Act to require that minimum community reinvestment standards be met by bank holding companies and savings and loan holding companies prior to any approval of such a holding company's application for the acquisition of: (1) out-of-State subsidiaries; or (2) interests in certain nonbanking organizations. Applies identical standards to the acquisition of a bank by a securities firm. Specifies such minimum standard as an imputed community reinvestment rating of two or better. Defines "imputed community investment rating" of a holding company as the community reinvestment rating assigned to the subsidiary of such holding company with the most unfavorable community reinvestment rating during the most recent examination of such subsidiary under the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977. Provides special rules for holding companies with five or more subsidiaries in one State and for subsidiaries with ratings assigned prior to the date of enactment of this Act. Specifies that the rating for a securities firm shall be the imputed community reinvestment rating assigned to the bank such firm is seeking to acquire. Allows conditional approvals in certain cases. Requires the disapproval of such an application if the applicant holding company or any subsidiary has established a pattern of: (1) acquiring or chartering federally-insured depository institutions or opening or closing deposit facilities in a manner that tends to exclude low- and moderate-income neighborhoods or equivalent areas; or (2) failing to provide reasonably priced and accessible deposit services to low- and moderate-income persons. Prohibits the approval of any application of a holding company to engage in securities activities or of a securities firm to acquire a bank unless the applicant enters into commitments assuring that the combination of banking and nonbanking activities will not diminish the availability of credit and deposit services for low- and moderate-income persons or within low- and moderate-income neighborhoods or equivalent areas. Sets forth procedures for the approval of such applications by the appropriate Federal regulatory agency, including provisions requiring newspaper notices of applications, requiring the acceptance of public comments, and authorizing the holding of informal hearings. Amends the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 to require the appropriate Federal regulatory agency to publish a newspaper notice of the examination of a financial institution's record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. Requires each regional unit of the appropriate Federal regulatory agency to prepare and mail to any requesting person a weekly bulletin listing the insured depository institutions within such region undergoing such an examination. Requires the appropriate Federal regulatory agencies to jointly develop a format for collecting data from insured depository institutions in connection with such examinations. Requires that peer group categories be included within such format. Provides that in the case of insured depository institutions with assets of $100,000,000 or more such format may require that additional amounts and types of performance data be collected. Requires the appropriate Federal regulatory agencies to prepare a written evaluation, following each such examination, of the institution's record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. Specifies that such evaluation shall have a public section and a confidential section which identifies customers, officers, and employees. Sets forth topics to be considered in such evaluation. Requires the appropriate Federal regulatory agencies to jointly prepare and publish, on an annual basis, peer group reports based on established performance data. Requires the appropriate Federal regulatory agencies to jointly develop and publish criteria for rating an insured depository institution's performances in meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. Requires each such agency to assign such a rating to each depository institution. Provides for a five-year transition period in the development of such ratings. Sets forth a comparative rating scale from one-excellent to five-poor or substantial noncompliance during such transition period. Sets forth criteria to be considered in developing a permanent normative five-grade rating scale ranging from one-excellent to five-unsatisfactory or substantial noncompliance. Specifies that in approving an application, or assessing, compiling data, or rating the performance of an insured depository institution pursuant to this Act, the appropriate Federal regulatory agency may take into consideration the activities of an institution's parent holding company or nonbank or nonthrift institution affiliates which help to meet the credit needs of the institution's local community, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. Title II: Agency Reforms - Requires each appropriate Federal regulatory agency (the Comptroller of the Currency, the Federal Reserve Board, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and the Federal Home Loan Bank Board) to establish a division of consumer affairs within such agency. Specifies the duties of such consumer affairs divisions. Requires the consumers affairs divisions of such agency to coordinate their activities to the maximum extent possible. Requires each Federal reserve bank to establish a consumer review board. Sets forth the membership of such boards and administrative provisions concerning the operation of such boards. Specifies the duties of each board, including: (1) providing the appropriate Federal regulatory agencies with quarterly reports of financial services needs within such board's region that are not being adequately served; and (2) reviewing the performance of such agencies with regard to examination standards and practices, disposition of consumer complaints, and enforcement procedures.