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Official portrait of Rep. Kolter, Joseph P. [D-PA-4]

Rep. Kolter, Joseph P. [D-PA-4]

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3,007 records where Rep. Kolter, Joseph P. [D-PA-4] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 175 (100th)open

A joint resolution to impose a moratorium on United States assistance for the Nicaraguan democratic resistance until there has been a full and adequate accounting for previous assistance.

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1987

Imposes a moratorium on additional assistance to the Nicaraguan resistance until the President has provided the Congress an accounting of previous assistance (derived from the sale of arms to Iran, humanitarian assistance provided, or any other assistance they may have received) for the Nicaraguan resistance and the Congress has determined that the President has fully accounted for such assistance. Requires the President, no later than 180 days after enactment of this Act, to submit to the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence an accounting on such assistance. Requires such congressional committees to review the accounting submitted by the President and to report a joint resolution based on such review to their respective Houses. Sets forth specified requirements and procedures with respect to such joint resolution.

Law· HRH.R. 1451 (100th)enacted

Older Americans Act Amendments of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1987

Older American Amendments of 1987 - Amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to authorize appropriations for FY 1988 through 1991 for State and community programs on aging which include programs providing nutrition services, supportive services, surplus commodities, or cash payments in lieu of food commodities to older individuals. Requires States to include among such programs a program providing in-home services to frail, older individuals. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1991, for: (1) the older American community service employment program; (2) grants to Indian tribes for the provision of supportive and nutritional services to older Indians; and (3) the older Americans personal health education and training program.

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. 1468 (100th)open

Commission on National Service Opportunities Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1987

Commission on National Service Opportunities Act of 1987 - Establishes the Commission on National Service Opportunities to examine: (1) the effectiveness of existing service opportunities in the public and private sectors; (2) alternative types of national service programs; (3) the impact of potential changes in incentives for service; (4) the feasibility of incorporating existing and alternative service programs into a comprehensive national service program; (5) the need for and the desirability, feasibility, and cost of establishing and carrying out a program of mandatory national service; and (6) alternative ways to furnish educational assistance to participants in national service programs, and the costs of such alternatives. Directs the Commission to transmit a final report, with any recommendations for legislative or administrative actions, to the President and the Congress not later than 15 months after its first meeting. Directs each affected executive department and agency to submit recommendations to the President for implementing such report. Directs the President to report to the Congress on the implementation of the Commission's recommendations. Terminates the Commission 180 days after its final report is transmitted. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988.

Bill· HRH.R. 1398 (100th)open

Quality of Life Action Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1987

Quality of Life Action Act - Declares that every adult American: (1) able and willing to earn a living has a right to a choice among opportunities for paid employment at decent wages or for self-employment; and (2) unable to work for pay has the right to an adequate standard of living that rises with increases in the health and productivity of the society. Directs all Federal agencies to plan and carry out their policies and programs so all adult Americans may exercise these rights. Prohibits the Federal Reserve System or any other Federal agency from promoting recession, stagnation, or unemployment as a means for reducing wages and salaries or inflation. Directs the President, in each annual budget and economic report submitted after the date of enactment of this Act, to transmit to the Congress a staged program: (1) to help establish and maintain conditions under which the rights set forth in this Act may be enjoyed; and (2) to implement the Government's economic and social obligations under the Employment Act of 1946, the Full Employment and Balanced Growth Act of 1978, the Charter of the United Nations, and the Charter of the Organization of American States. Sets forth program objectives, which include: (1) providing incentives for enlarging employment opportunities; (2) increasing the opportunities for part-time employment; (3) preventing or controlling inflationary tendencies; (4) providing improved Federal incentives for investment, expansion, and increased employment; and (5) promoting conditions for more self-empowerment by those victimized by discrimination. Requires such program to include policies and projects to: (1) achieve American leadership in goods production; and (2) develop American leadership in services. Requires such policies and projects to include Federal grants and other incentives for short-term and long-term public works planning. Sets forth eligibility requirements for such grants and incentives. Requires the Government to cooperate with the United Nations and foreign governments in developing an international community based on rising living standards. Directs the President and the Congress to review laws, regulations, and procedures which may interfere with this Act and propose necessary changes. Requires the Government to make financial support for the International Monetary Fund and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development conditional upon the development and implementation of policies and procedures which will: (1) raise the standard of living in countries receiving assistance; and (2) contribute to the economic viability, credit worthiness, and ability to import goods and services to the United States. Requires the President to propose and promote international and regional conferences on unemployment and underemployment. Directs the President, in the first annual message at the beginning of the first session of the Congress after the enactment of this Act, to include specific proposals for a Conversion Planning Fund, to be administered by agencies determined by the President. Provides that such Fund shall promote short- and long-term plans for coping with declines in civilian or military activities by developing specific policies, programs, and projects (including feasibility studies, education, on-the-job training, and inducements for necessary and desirable labor mobility) for the expansion of economic activities in sectors where additional or improved goods or services are needed. Requires, in addition to such other funds as may be authorized, that such Fund include no less than one percent of the amount appropriated for military purposes during each subsequent year. Directs the President, as part of such annual program, to transmit to the Congress a short- and long-range schedule for implementing the purposes of this Act. Requires such schedule to include recommendations for restructuring Federal budget priorities to provide for: (1) reducing wasteful or unnecessary military expenditures; (2) increasing Federal revenues; (3) reducing the interest on the Federal debt; (4) using public and private pension funds to help attain the goals of this Act; and (5) promoting or creating development banks in areas of high joblessness and poverty. Requires the President to include recommendations for promoting education activities within each State. Requires the Joint Economic Committee to monitor actions proposed or taken under this Act. Requires that budgetary data for specific programs include evaluations and quantitative estimates of impacts on: (1) gross and net outlays computed in terms of estimates of the effects of paid employment on reducing outlays and increasing tax receipts; and (2) benefits and costs to society. Requires that each overall budget message from the President to the Congress be based on policies and programs to reduce unemployment.

Bill· HRH.R. 1412 (100th)referred

Worker Adjustment Improvement Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1987

Worker Adjustment Improvement Act of 1987 - Title I: Financing Through the Imposition of Small Uniform Duty on All Imports - Directs the President to undertake negotiations to change the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) to allow countries to impose a uniform duty on all imports in order to use the revenue from such duty to fund trade adjustment assistance programs. Directs the President to report to the Congress six months after enactment of this Act on the progress of such negotiations. Directs the President to report to the Congress as soon as the GATT allows the imposition of such a duty. Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to impose an additional duty on all imports into the United States having a value of at least $1,000, including those imports granted duty-free treatment, with specified exceptions. Title II: Unemployment Compensation for Dislocated Workers - Unemployment Compensation for Dislocated Workers Act - Allows States to enter into agreements with the Secretary of Labor under which the State agency will make payments of Federal unemployment compensation for dislocated workers to individuals who are participating in a job training program for dislocated workers under title III of the Job Training Partnership Act. Requires such individuals to have exhausted all rights to unemployment compensation under State, Federal, or Canadian law. Limits such payments to a maximum period of ten weeks of unemployment which begin in the individual's period of eligibility. Prohibits such payments to any individual for any week of unemployment which begins more than two years after the end of the benefit year for which the individual exhausted rights to regular compensation. Requires that such Federal-State agreements provide that the State establish a Federal unemployment compensation for dislocated workers account for a benefit year for each individual who files an application for such compensation. Provides that the amount in such account shall be equal to ten times the individual's average weekly benefit amount. Provides that each State which has entered into such an agreement shall be paid an amount equal to 100 percent of the Federal unemployment compensation for dislocated workers paid to individuals by the State pursuant to such agreement. Provides that funds in the extended unemployment compensation account of the Unemployment Trust Fund shall be used for making such payments to States, through transfers of such funds to the State account in the Fund. Authorizes appropriations to the extended unemployment compensation account to carry out the purposes of this title. Authorizes appropriations to the general fund of the Treasury to assist States in meeting the costs of administration of agreements under this title. Sets forth provisions relating to fraud and overpayments under this title. Title III: Strengthening the Dislocated Workers Program - Amends the Job Training Partnership Act (the Act) to require each State to include any termination or layoff which involves 100 or more employees in any place of employment in the identification of dislocated workers under title III (Employment and Training Assistance for Dislocated Workers) of the Act. Directs the Secretary of Labor to establish in the Department of Labor a Federal Dislocated Workers Unit to: (1) receive State annual plans for providing title III services; (2) receive specified reports; (3) establish performance guidelines for State title III programs and report annually to the Congress on State performance; and (4) provide technical assistance to the States and to local service providers. Directs the Secretary to: (1) enter into an agreement with the National Commission for Employment Policy to conduct research and evaluation of methods for effective worker adjustment; and (2) report annually to the Congress on the findings resulting from such agreement. Requires States to submit to the Secretary their plans of title III activities for the succeeding fiscal year. Requires States to reserve specified title III funds to establish and operate a State dislocated workers unit to: (1) respond to large-scale layoffs and terminations, especially those resulting from the permanent closure of a plant or facility; (2) establish and operate an information gathering and notification system for notification by employers of such closures; (3) provide appropriate information and assistance to both employers and employees subject to such a closure; and (4) facilitate services to dislocated workers affected by such a closure. Requires such State units to coordinate their activities with the State job coordinating council and with the appropriate regional office of the Department of Labor. Requires States to reserve specified title III funds for basic skills education programs for dislocated workers. Authorizes State dislocated workers units to establish joint labor-management training programs. Sets forth application requirements for grants to labor-management committees. Sets forth authorized uses of such funds. Adds State reporting requirements under title III of the Act. Directs the Secretary to furnish technical assistance upon State request. Directs the Secretary, within six months after enactment of this Act, to commence a study of methods of implementing portability for pensions and health benefits for dislocated workers, including an evaluation of the provision of early retirement benefits without penalty for older dislocated workers. Requires a report on such study to be submitted to the Congress within 18 months after enactment of this Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 1408 (100th)referred

Worker Adjustment Improvement Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1987

Worker Adjustment Improvement Act of 1987 - Title I: Financing Through the Imposition of Small Uniform Duty on All Imports - Directs the President to undertake negotiations to change the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) to allow countries to impose a uniform duty on all imports in order to use the revenue from such duty to fund trade adjustment assistance programs. Directs the President to report to the Congress six months after enactment of this Act on the progress of such negotiations. Directs the President to report to the Congress as soon as the GATT allows the imposition of such a duty. Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to impose an additional duty on all imports into the United States having a value of at least $1,000, including those imports granted duty-free treatment, with specified exceptions. Title II: Unemployment Compensation for Dislocated Workers - Unemployment Compensation for Dislocated Workers Act - Allows States to enter into agreements with the Secretary of Labor under which the State agency will make payments of Federal unemployment compensation for dislocated workers to individuals who are participating in a job training program for dislocated workers under title III of the Job Training Partnership Act. Requires such individuals to have exhausted all rights to unemployment compensation under State, Federal, or Canadian law. Limits such payments to a maximum period of ten weeks of unemployment which begin in the individual's period of eligibility. Prohibits such payments to any individual for any week of unemployment which begins more than two years after the end of the benefit year for which the individual exhausted rights to regular compensation. Requires that such Federal-State agreements provide that the State establish a Federal unemployment compensation for dislocated workers account for a benefit year for each individual who files an application for such compensation. Provides that the amount in such account shall be equal to ten times the individual's average weekly benefit amount. Provides that each State which has entered into such an agreement shall be paid an amount equal to 100 percent of the Federal unemployment compensation for dislocated workers paid to individuals by the State pursuant to such agreement. Provides that funds in the extended unemployment compensation account of the Unemployment Trust Fund shall be used for making such payments to States, through transfers of such funds to the State account in the Fund. Authorizes appropriations to the extended unemployment compensation account to carry out the purposes of this title. Authorizes appropriations to the general fund of the Treasury to assist States in meeting the costs of administration of agreements under this title. Sets forth provisions relating to fraud and overpayments under this title. Title III: Strengthening the Dislocated Workers Program - Amends the Job Training Partnership Act (the Act) to require each State to include any termination or layoff which involves 100 or more employees in any place of employment in the identification of dislocated workers under title III (Employment and Training Assistance for Dislocated Workers) of the Act. Directs the Secretary of Labor to establish in the Department of Labor a Federal Dislocated Workers Unit to: (1) receive State annual plans for providing title III services; (2) receive specified reports; (3) establish performance guidelines for State title III programs and report annually to the Congress on State performance; and (4) provide technical assistance to the States and to local service providers. Directs the Secretary to: (1) enter into an agreement with the National Commission for Employment Policy to conduct research and evaluation of methods for effective worker adjustment; and (2) report annually to the Congress on the findings resulting from such agreement. Requires States to submit to the Secretary their plans of title III activities for the succeeding fiscal year. Requires States to reserve specified title III funds to establish and operate a State dislocated workers unit to: (1) respond to large-scale layoffs and terminations, especially those resulting from the permanent closure of a plant or facility; (2) establish and operate an information gathering and notification system for notification by employers of such closures; (3) provide appropriate information and assistance to both employers and employees subject to such a closure; and (4) facilitate services to dislocated workers affected by such a closure. Requires such State units to coordinate their activities with the State job coordinating council and with the appropriate regional office of the Department of Labor. Requires States to reserve specified title III funds for basic skills education programs for dislocated workers. Authorizes State dislocated workers units to establish joint labor-management training programs. Sets forth application requirements for grants to labor-management committees. Sets forth authorized uses of such funds. Adds State reporting requirements under title III of the Act. Directs the Secretary to furnish technical assistance upon State request. Directs the Secretary, within six months after enactment of this Act, to commence a study of methods of implementing portability for pensions and health benefits for dislocated workers, including an evaluation of the provision of early retirement benefits without penalty for older dislocated workers. Requires a report on such study to be submitted to the Congress within 18 months after enactment of this Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 1397 (100th)referred

A bill authorizing the negotiation of agreements to eliminate unfair, restrictive, or discriminatory foreign practices in the marine transportation of automobile imports to the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1987

Directs the President to negotiate trade agreements with each country from which 50,000 or more automobiles are imported into the United States each year that will: (1) eliminate unfair, restrictive, or discriminatory practices in the marine transportation of such imports; and (2) establish procedures whereby a fair and reasonable portion of all such imports are transported to the United States by U.S. owned and operated vessels. Requires the President to report to the Congress semiannually on such negotiations.

Bill· HRH.R. 1356 (100th)open

Railroad Unemployment Insurance Solvency and Benefit Increase Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1987

Railroad Unemployment Insurance Solvency and Benefit Increase Act of 1987 - Title I: Financing Provisions - Amends the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act to redefine compensation to provide that in computing the compensation paid to any employee, no part of any month's compensation in excess of the monthly compensation base shall be recognized. Establishes a formula for such monthly compensation base. Directs the Railroad Retirement Board (the Board) to: (1) compute the monthly compensation base according to certain guidelines; (2) compute the maximum daily benefit rate applicable to days of unemployment and sickness; and (3) publish notice of such computation in the Federal Register. Revises the guidelines for employers' contributions. Requires the Board to maintain an individual employer record for each employer, and the records necessary to determine pooled charges and pooled credits, as well as unallocated balances for the system. Provides for the combining of joint individual employer records upon the employers' request in the event of a merger, consolidation, unification, or reorganization. Establishes a 12 percent employer contribution limit, or nine percent when a surtax is in effect. Revises the guidelines for employee representatives' contributions to require that such a representative pay a contribution relating to so much of the compensation paid for representation services as is not in excess of a specified monthly compensation base. Extends certain remedies to an employer or employee representative who contests the contribution rate made applicable to him or her by the Board. Establishes deadlines by which the Board shall proclaim certain account balances, pooled ratios, and surcharge rates. Requires the Board to publish notice of such proclamations in the Federal Register. Increases from 0.5 to 0.65 the percentage of employer and employee contributions which must be credited to the railroad unemployment insurance administration fund. Requires the Board to: (1) notify the base year employer when an employee files a claim for benefits; (2) afford such employer opportunity to respond before making an initial determination on such claim; and (3) notify such employer when the Board initially makes a determination to make benefit payments under a claim. Prescribes guidelines for administrative and judicial review of Board determinations to make payments under a claim. Title II: Benefit and Other Adjustments - Increases the waiting period for unemployment and sickness benefits from four to nine days during the first registration period within a benefit year in which the employee has more than four days of unemployment and for each day of unemployment in excess of four during any other benefit period in the same benefit year. Excludes nine days of sickness in the first registration period during a benefit year and four days of sickness in any other registration period when computing sickness benefits. Amends the daily unemployment or sickness benefit rates to prohibit daily benefits from exceeding: (1) $25.00 until July 1, 1987; and (2) $30.00 for registration periods beginning after June 30, 1987, but before July 1, 1988. Requires the Board to compute a maximum daily rate that shall be a minimum of $30.00. Redefines "qualified employee" to mean an employee who received compensation with respect to each of not less than six months in the base year, if such compensation will not have been less than five times the monthly compensation base. Increases from $10.00 to $15.00 the maximum permitted subsidiary remuneration. Title III: Retirement Act Amendments - Declares that, for purposes of computing years of service to determine individual annuity benefits, severance or separation payments received between January 1, 1985, and January 1, 1988, shall not cause an individual to be deemed unemployed under the Railroad Retirement Act of 1974. Eliminates as a disqualifier for annuity benefits any compensated service rendered after receipt of annuity benefits to the annuitant's last employer. Repeals the requirement that an annuitant relinquish all rights to return to the service of the person by whom the annuitant was last employed in order to qualify for annuity benefits. Increases the earnings limit for disability annuitants from $200 a month to $400 a month (and from $2,400 a year to $4,800 a year). Redefines "war service period" to provide that the period June 15, 1948, to December 15, 1950, shall be deemed a war service period with respect to persons who returned to railroad employment without an intervening employment following military service.

Bill· HRH.R. 1371 (100th)referred

Covert Action Notification Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1987

Covert Action Notification Act of 1987 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to require the President to make a written finding that a Central Intelligence Agency operation in a foreign country (other than an intelligence gathering operation) is important to the national security and to furnish a copy of that finding, before the start of such operation, to specified members of the Congress and to the Vice President, the Secretaries of State and Defense, and the Director of Central Intelligence. Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to delete the provision that authorizes deferral of notice to the Congress of such intelligence activity.

Bill· HRH.R. 1372 (100th)referred

Professional Medical Liability Reform Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1987

Professional Medical Liability Reform Act of 1987 - Establishes within the Department of Justice a program to fund the creation and operation of State medical liability arbitration panels. Confers upon such panels original and exclusive jurisdiction to hear all claims of medical malpractice that are not against the United States. Catalogs the powers of the panels. Sets forth standards applicable to panel decisions, including provisions relating to choice of law, timetable to govern decisionmaking, criteria relating to expert witnesses, and guidelines for the transmission of a written decision to the parties. Permits admission of evidence of collateral sources of compensation for injuries and requires a mandatory offset of amounts from such sources against damage awards. Authorizes panels to dismiss frivolous claims. Directs panels to determine the amount of damages owed to the plaintiff by a defendant found to be professionally negligent. Permits States to provide judicial enforcement of such damage awards if not promptly paid. Limits recovery for noneconomic loss to a maximum of $250,000, with provision for a cost of living adjustment every three years. Authorizes periodic payment of awards under certain circumstances. Prescribes procedures and standards to govern judicial review of a panel decision. Requires the panel to report to the State insurance commissioner and to the appropriate licensing or certification body within 30 days in cases when a defendant has been found guilty of professional negligence or when a settlement agreement is reached. Requires that the appropriate board make such report available for public inspection and that the commissioner promptly notify each liability insurance provider in the State concerning findings of negligence and the terms of any settlement agreement. Permits the State to authorize liability insurance providers to adjust their rates for persons found liable by a panel or who have entered into certain settlement agreements. Establishes a schedule of attorney fees in professional negligence actions. Provides for installment payment of such fees according to a formula specified in this Act. Subjects an attorney violating fee provisions to civil liability, with jurisdiction over such actions granted to Federal district courts. Requires each State to establish programs to: (1) study the causes of professional negligence in the interest of developing means to prevent or reduce its incidence; (2) review the authority and operations of State medical liability claims plans, risk management bodies, and appropriate health care professional licensing or certification entities; and (3) develop educational materials relating to professional negligence and standards of health care practice. Directs the State health commissioner to develop programs to identify, investigate, and report on incidents of professional negligence and to encourage facilities to take action to prevent future negligence. Fixes a statute of limitations for professional negligence actions. Encourages States to permit parties to a claim filed with a panel to enter into a settlement agreement at any time prior to a panel decision. Subjects such a settlement to the same attorney fee schedule that governs panel decisions. Directs the Attorney General to make specified payments to States eligible for medical liability panel funds according to a specified timetable and schedule. Requires the Governor of a recipient State to report to the Attorney General within one year after receipt of payment concerning the use of such payment. Authorizes the Attorney General to determine the allocation of funds to qualifying States and prescribes guidelines for such determinations. Empowers the Attorney General to make decisions concerning compliance with this Act, termination of allocations and repayment of funds in the event of noncompliance, and reallocation of funds according to guidelines in this Act. Sets forth procedures, a timetable, and standards to govern application by the Governor of any State for the certification of programs to qualify a State for funding under this Act. Makes decisions by the Attorney General concerning noncompliance, the termination of allocations, State repayment of funds, and the reallocation of funds final and not subject to judicial review. Directs the Attorney General to promulgate regulations to implement the provisions of this Act. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a national data base and computer tracking system to monitor health professionals sanctioned for disciplinary reasons. Requires State health professions licensing or certification boards to report instances of disciplinary action to the Secretary within 30 days after such action. Authorizes appropriations beginning in FY 1988.

Bill· HRH.R. 1346 (100th)referred

Agricultural Loan Assistance Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1987

Agricultural Loan Assistance Act of 1987 - Amends the Federal Deposit Insurance Act to require Federal banking agencies to permit an agricultural bank to: (1) amortize over ten years any loss on a qualified agricultural loan that the bank would otherwise be required to show on an annual financial statement for 1987 through 1991; and (2) reappraise the value of any real estate or other real or personal property that the bank acquired coincident to making a qualified agricultural loan and that it owned on January 1, 1987, and any additional property that it acquired before January 1, 1992, and to amortize over ten years any loss resulting from such reappraisal that it would otherwise be required to show on its annual financial statements. Allows such amortization only if there is no evidence that fraud or criminal abuse by the bank led to such losses.

Bill· HRH.R. 1347 (100th)referred

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to permit expenses incurred in filing withholding certificates to be deductible whether or not the individual itemizes his deductions, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1987

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a deduction for expenses related to preparation of withholding certificates. Requires that a person who filed such certificate knew it to be false or fraudulent before the imposition of civil penalties. Establishes a transition period for imposition of such penalties.

Bill· HRH.R. 1336 (100th)open

A bill to correct the tariff rate inversion on certain iron and steel pipe and tube products.

United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1987

Amends the Tariff Schedules of the United States to increase the duty on certain alloyed iron and steel pipes. Imposes a duty on non-alloyed iron and steel pipes. Increases the duty on non-alloyed steel pipes that meet certain oil well casing requirements. Increases the duty on certain finished steel conduits.

Bill· HRH.R. 3021 (100th)referred

A bill to amend section 1886 of the Social Security Act to require that certain hospitals be classified as being located in an urban area for purposes of determining payments under the medicare program for inpatient hospitals, and to require that certain hospitals be treated in the same manner as a hospital located within a particular geographic area for purpose of making such determination.

United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1987

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to consider the aggregate number of resident workers who commute from the county in which a hospital is located to contiguous metropolitan statistical areas, rather than only considering the number of workers commuting to a single metropolitan area, for the purpose of determining whether such hospital should be paid at urban rather than rural rates.

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. 1301 (100th)open

A bill to amend Public Law 99-591 to extend through 1987 the requirement that certain benefits be paid to retired former employees of debtors in bankruptcy.

United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1987

Amends the Departments of Commerce, Justice, and State, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriation Act, 1987 to require the bankruptcy trustee in any reorganization case to pay, until January 1, 1988 (currently, May 15, 1987), health, disability, or death benefits to retired former employees under a program established or maintained by the debtor prior to filing a bankruptcy petition.

Bill· HRH.R. 1290 (100th)open

Ocean Transportation Practices Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1987

Ocean Transportation Practices Act of 1987 - Directs the Federal Maritime Commission (the Commission) to investigate whether unfair trade practices are used in the ocean transportation of goods transported in the foreign commerce of the United States. Requires the Commission to find an unfair trade practice when the acts, policies, or practices of a foreign country unreasonably impair the transportation of goods in the foreign commerce of the United States by vessels documented under the laws of the United States. Outlines further standards to be used by the Commission in making such determinations. Outlines action to be taken by the Commission if an unfair trade practice is found to exist. Provides for civil liability for the owner of a foreign vessel found to be engaging in unfair trade practices if certain negotiated actions are not taken within a specified time period. Requires any final action by the Commission under this Act to be reported to the Congress in writing within 60 days. Directs that any civil penalties collected as the result of enforcement of this Act are to be deposited into the Maritime Displacement Account. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to use the amounts so deposited to assist vessels affected by unfair trade practices to gain access to the trades. Directs the Secretary to prescribe regulations to carry out this provision.

Law· HRH.R. 1270 (100th)enacted

A bill to award a congressional gold medal to Mrs. Jesse Owens.

United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1987

Authorizes the President, on behalf of the Congress, to present a gold medal to Mrs. Jesse Owens in recognition of the late Jesse Owens' athletic achievements and humanitarian contributions to public service, civil rights, and international goodwill. Authorizes appropriations. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to sell bronze duplicates of the medal.

Bill· HRH.R. 1231 (100th)open

Foreign Agents Compulsory Ethics in Trade Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1987

Foreign Agents Compulsory Ethics in Trade Act of 1987 - Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit the President, the Vice President, certain high-level Federal officials and employees, certain high-ranking active-duty members of the uniformed services, and Members of Congress from representing or advising foreign principals on matters of direct and substantial U.S. interest during the four-year period after cessation of Federal employment. Authorizes the Attorney General to grant a waiver to such prohibition unless the proposed conduct could harm the national interests or create an undue appearance of conflict of interest. Authorizes the Attorney General, upon reason to believe that a person is engaging or about to engage in conduct in violation of this Act, to petition the appropriate U.S. district court for an order prohibiting such conduct. Establishes civil and criminal penalties for violations of this Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 1250 (100th)referred

A bill to suspend most-favored-nation treatment to the products of Romania until that country recognizes and protects fundamental human rights, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1987

Suspends most-favored-nation treatment for Romania for six months. Permits the products of Romania to receive most-favored-nation treatment during any 180-day period following the initial six months only if: (1) the President submits to the House of Representatives and the Senate a document containing specified findings and assurances, including a finding that granting most-favored-nation treatment will promote improved freedom to emigrate from Romania and will promote an end to religious and political persecution in Romania; and (2) a joint resolution disapproving such action is not enacted. Provides for expedited consideration of such resolution.

Bill· HRH.R. 1234 (100th)referred

Ethnic and Minority Affairs Broadcasting Clearinghouse Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1987

Ethnic and Minority Affairs Broadcasting Clearinghouse Act of 1987 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to establish the Ethnic and Minority Affairs Clearinghouse within the Federal Communications Commission. Directs the Clearinghouse to: (1) establish a clearinghouse for complaints about the portrayal of ethnic and minority groups in radio and television broadcast programming; (2) collect and disseminate information about such portrayal; (3) conduct an annual conference to draw public attention to such portrayal; (4) submit to the Congress an annual report on its activities, including a compilation of all complaints received; and (5) provide information to the Commission.

Bill· HRH.R. 1241 (100th)referred

Federal Financial Management Improvement Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1987

Federal Financial Management Improvement Act - Establishes: (1) the Office of the Chief Financial Officer of the United States in the Executive Office of the President; (2) an Assistant Secretary for Financial Management in each executive department; and (3) a Controller in each executive agency. Requires officers to be appointed to such positions by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Requires the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to: (1) provide central direction and monitoring of the executive agencies in the management of their financial activities; (2) ensure that the President and the Congress are fully informed of the Government's financial management condition; and (3) maintain the central accounting and reporting records of the Government. Requires each Assistant Secretary and Controller to: (1) maintain a strategic financial management plan for the department or agency; and (2) participate in the appointment, development, and evaluation of financial managers of such department or agency. Requires the budget of each department and agency to contain a line item for its Assistant Secretary or Controller based on its strategic financial management plan. Establishes in the executive branch the Federal Finance Council, which shall consist of the CFO and the Assistant Secretaries, as an advisory body on financial management objectives, information requirements, plans, operations, and activities. Directs the President to transfer to the Office of the CFO: (1) such functions of the executive agencies as the President determines are properly related to the functions of the Office; and (2) such personnel, property, and records of such agencies as are related to the transferred functions.

Bill· HRH.R. 1213 (100th)open

Pornography Victims Protection Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1987

Pornography Victims Protection Act of 1987 - Amends the Federal criminal code with respect to the prohibition against the sexual exploitation of children to add as a condition triggering Federal penalties that the person concerned know that a minor was transported in interstate or foreign commerce for the purpose of producing pornography. Makes it a criminal offense for any person to coerce, intimidate, or fraudulently induce an individual 18 years or older to engage in any sexually explicit conduct for the purposes of producing any visual depiction of such conduct. Grants the U.S. district courts jurisdiction to prevent and restrain violations of this Act. Authorizes the Attorney General or any person threatened with loss or damage by such conduct to institute a civil suit. Provides for treble damages for a victim who suffers physical injury, emotional distress, or property damage. Imposes civil penalties for violation of the prohibition against sexual exploitation of children.

Law· HRH.R. 1212 (100th)enacted

Employee Polygraph Protection Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1987

Employee Polygraph Protection Act - Prohibits any employer from using any lie detector test or examination in the work place, for both pre-employment testing and testing in the course of employment. Requires the Secretary of Labor to prepare and have printed notices setting forth this prohibition. Requires employers to post these notices. Provides penalties for violations of this Act. Exempts Federal, State, and local employees from the Act's coverage.

Bill· HRH.R. 1214 (100th)open

Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1987

Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987 - Amends title IX (Prohibition of Sex Discrimination) of the Education Amendments of 1972 to define the phrase "program or activity" and the term "program" to mean all of the operations of the following entities, any part of which is extended Federal financial assistance: (1) a department, agency, special purpose district, or other instrumentality of a State or local government; (2) a State or local government agency which distributes such assistance and the agency or department to which such assistance is extended; (3) a college, university, or other postsecondary institution, or public system of higher education; (4) a local educational agency, system of vocational education, or other school system; and (5) a corporation, partnership, or other private organization. States that such terms do not include any operation of an entity which is controlled by a religious organization. Amends the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to define the phrase "program or activity" to mean all of the activities of the aforementioned entities.

Bill· HRH.R. 1228 (100th)open

A bill to amend the National Housing Act to provide the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development with permanent authority to insure mortgages on single-family and multifamily dwellings, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1987

Amends the National Housing Act to make authority permanent for: (1) title I financial institution insurance for housing renovation and modernization; (2) general mortgage insurance; (3) low and moderate income and displaced families mortgage insurance; (4) mortgage co-insurance, including rental rehabilitation and development projects; (5) mortgage insurance for armed forces' civilian employees and defense housing for impacted areas; (6) mortgage insurance for land development; (7) mortgage insurance for medical and dental group practice facilities; (8) mortgage insurance commitment limitations; and (9) graduated payment and indexed mortgage insurance. Amends the Housing Act of 1964 to make authority permanent for urban rehabilitation loan authority. Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to make authority permanent for: (1) insured loans for rental and cooperative housing and related facilities for elderly persons and families in rural areas; and (2) mutual and self-help housing grant and loan authority. Amends the National Flood Insurance Act of 1986 to make national flood insurance authority, including emergency implementation provisions, permanent.

Bill· HRH.R. 1217 (100th)open

Airline Computer Reservations Systems Arbitration Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1987

Airline Computer Reservations Systems Arbitration Act of 1987 - Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to direct the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service to provide arbitration services for any participating air carrier or subscriber (ticket agent) which requests arbitration of any provision of a computer reservations system contract to which it is a party. Prescribes procedural guidelines for such arbitration.

Bill· HRH.R. 1203 (100th)referred

Technology Education Act of 1986

United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1987

Technology Education Act of 1986 - Defines "technology education" as a comprehensive educational process designed to develop a population that is knowledgeable about technology and its evolution, systems, techniques, utilization in industry and other fields, and social and cultural significance. Directs the Secretary of Education, subject to the availability of appropriations under this Act, to establish a program of grants to local educational agencies (LEAs), State educational agencies (SEAs), consortia of public and private agencies, organizations, and institutions, and institutions of higher education for not more than ten demonstration programs in technology education for secondary schools. Sets forth grant application requirements. Directs the Secretary to consider equitable geographic distribution in making such grants. Permits such grants to be used to develop a model demonstration program for technology education with specified components. Includes among such components research and development of curriculum materials, an institute to develop teacher capabilities in technology education, and multidisciplinary teacher workshops for interfacing mathematics, science, and technology education. Limits the Federal share to 65 percent of the costs of programs or projects assisted under this Act. Requires that at least ten percent of such costs be covered by private sector contributions. Directs the Secretary to disseminate the results of such programs or projects so as to improve the training of educational personnel. Amends the Education Consolidation and Improvement Act of 1981 to direct the Secretary to make available specified amounts of discretionary funds to carry out this Act for FY 1987 through 1989.

Bill· HRH.R. 1195 (100th)referred

Syndicated Television Music Copyright Reform Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1987

Syndicated Television Music Copyright Reform Act of 1987 - Amends the copyright law to require that any conveyance of performance rights in an audiovisual work to nonnetwork commercial television include the right to perform in synchronization any accompanying copyrighted music. Entitles the music copyright holder to an interest in any compensation received for the audiovisual work performance rights.

Bill· HRH.R. 1196 (100th)referred

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to prohibit the transfer of returns and return information by tax return preparers in conjunction with the sale of their business unless the taxpayer consents to the transfer.

United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1987

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to prohibit the transfer or other disclosure of taxpayer information by return preparers in conjunction with the sale of the business of preparing tax returns, unless the taxpayer consents in writing to such transfer or other disclosure.

Bill· HRH.R. 1154 (100th)failed

Textile Apparel and Footwear Trade Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1987

Textile and Apparel Trade Act of 1987 - Limits the 1987 imports of textiles and textile products classified under a category to an amount equal to 101 percent of the total 1986 imports classified under such category. Limits the 1987 imports of nonrubber footwear classified under a nonrubber footwear category to an amount equal to: (1) the total 1986 imports of nonrubber footwear classified under such category; and (2) in the case of low priced nonrubber footwear, the total 1986 imports of low priced nonrubber footwear classified under such category. Provides for a one-percent annual growth in the amount of permitted imports of textiles and textile products after 1987. Authorizes the President to: (1) enter into trade agreements to grant new concessions as compensation, to the extent required under U.S. trade agreements for the import limits imposed by this Act; and (2) proclaim such modification or continuance of any existing duty on textiles and textile products and on nonrubber footwear as necessary to carry out such agreements. Prohibits the President from reducing any rate of duty by more than ten percent. Requires the President, before entering into such trade agreements, to consider whether such country has violated trade concessions of benefit to the United States and such violation has not been adequately offset by U.S. action or by the action of such country. Sets forth requirements governing staged rate reductions in the tariffs of articles affected by this Act. Prohibits the President, except as authorized by this paragraph, from entering into trade negotiations with any country with respect to duties on textiles, textile products, and nonrubber footwear. Prohibits the President, except as provided in this paragraph, from decreasing or proposing a decrease in any such duty by any means, including an implementing bill or a proclamation. Requires the President to report annually to the Congress on the administration of this Act. Requires the Secretary of Commerce, ten years after enactment of this Act, to study and report to the Congress on the operation of this Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 1186 (100th)open

Retiree Benefits Security Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1987

Retiree Benefits Security Act of 1987 - Amends Federal bankruptcy law to apply provisions governing the rejection of collective bargaining agreements in reorganization cases to collective bargaining agreement provisions relating to benefits for retired employees. Provides that bankruptcy claims for retiree benefits and claims arising under any collective bargaining agreement or rejection thereof shall not be limited to one year's compensation. Designates the labor organization which is the recognized exclusive collective bargaining representative in a collective bargaining agreement as the authorized representative of persons receiving retirement benefits under such agreement in bankruptcy proceedings. Directs the court to appoint a committee of retirees to serve as such representative if the labor organization elects not to serve or if the recipients of retiree benefits are not covered by a collective bargaining agreement. Requires the debtor in possession or trustee in a reorganization case to pay and not modify any retiree benefits under any program established or maintained by the debtor prior to filing a bankruptcy petition. Allows modification of such benefits: (1) by court order; or (2) as agreed to by the trustee and the authorized representative of benefit recipients. Treats such payments as administrative expenses. Permits the court to order a modification in retiree benefit payments only if: (1) with respect to benefits covered by a collective bargaining agreement, such agreement is rejected in bankruptcy; and (2) with respect to benefits whether covered or not, the court finds that modifications are necessary to permit the reorganization of the debtor and assure that all creditors, the debtor, and all affected parties are treated fairly and equitably and that the balance of equities clearly favors the modification sought by the trustee. Permits the court, before issuing a final order, to authorize the trustee to implement interim changes in benefits not provided by a collective bargaining agreement, if essential to the continuation of the debtor's business, or in order to avoid irreparable damage to the estate. Provides that any retiree benefits paid between the filing of a petition and confirmation of a plan shall not be deducted from amounts calculated for claims for unpaid future retiree benefits or for any benefits not provided due to modifications, unless otherwise agreed by the debtor and the authorized representative. Requires a reorganization plan to place all claimants for retiree benefits in a separate class consisting only of such claimants. Requires that a plan, to be fair and equitable with respect to such claimants: (1) provide that each claim holder of such class receive property of a value equal to the allowed amount of such claim; or (2) provide that each claim holder of such class receive such value as found by the court to represent the minimum reduction in retiree benefits consistent with the ability of the debtor to provide such benefits after plan confirmation. Provides for the retroactive application of this Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 1178 (100th)open

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to impose a 50 percent nondeductible excise tax on certain profits realized in connection with corporate takeover attempts, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1987

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose a 50 percent excise tax on any "greenmail profits" paid to certain corporate stockholders. Defines "greenmail profits" as any gain realized by a four-percent shareholder of any stock in a corporation if: (1) the shareholder held such stock for a period of less than two years; and (2) during the two-year period ending on the date of the sale or exchange of such stock there was a public tender offer for such stock. Disallows an income tax deduction for any interest paid or accrued on indebtedness incurred to acquire stock in a corporation pursuant to a hostile offer.

Bill· HRH.R. 1148 (100th)referred

A bill to amend the Railroad Retirement Act of 1974 to allow a worker to be employed in any nonrailroad employment and still qualify for an annuity, subject to current deductions in the tier 1 benefit on account of work and new deductions in the tier 2 benefit if the employment is for his last nonrailroad employer.

United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1987

Amends the Railroad Retirement Act of 1974 to allow a retired railroad worker to be employed in any non-railroad employment and still qualify for an annuity, subject to specified deductions, including reduction of certain benefits by $1 for every $2 earned from the last non-railroad employment.

Bill· HRH.R. 1140 (100th)referred

Broadcast License Renewal Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1987

Broadcast License Renewal Act of 1987 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to declare it to be the policy of the United States that, with respect to the grant or renewal of a broadcast license, the licensee has the responsibility to: (1) broadcast material responsive to matters of concern to residents of its service area; and (2) operate in compliance with provisions of such Act and Federal Communications Commission regulations. Directs the Commission to: (1) grant an application for license renewal if the applicant has met such responsibilities in the preceding license term; or (2) deny renewal or grant limited renewal if the applicant failed to meet such responsibilities. Prohibits the Commission, in evaluating a licensee's performance in broadcasting material responsive to matters of public concern, from establishing or applying any requirement with respect to the broadcast of any specific subject or material. Directs the Commission to accept the licensee's judgment if found to be reasonable and made in good faith. Prohibits the Commission, in determining whether to renew a license, from considering whether the public interest, convenience, and necessity might be served by granting a license to a competing applicant. Directs the Commission to conduct an inquiry and prescribe any necessary regulations concerning any additional information that licensees should be required to maintain and make available to the public regarding the licensee's responsibility to broadcast material responsive to matters of public concern. Makes it unlawful for a license applicant and any other person, while a license application is pending, to effectuate an agreement whereby the other person withdraws or withholds an informal objection or a petition to deny in exchange for the payment of any thing of value by, or on behalf of, the applicant.

Bill· HRH.R. 1152 (100th)referred

Family Farmer Equity Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1987

Family Farmer Equity Act of 1987 - Amends the Bankruptcy Judges, United States Trustees, and Family Farmer Bankruptcy Act of 1986 to apply bankruptcy provisions governing the adjustment of debts of family farmers to bankruptcy cases that are pending or that are reviewable on appeal after the date of enactment of this Act, without regard to whether such cases were commenced before November 26, 1986.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 52 (100th)referred

A concurrent resolution to request the President to take appropriate actions toward the establishment of a cooperative international research program with respect to the greenhouse effect.

United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1987

Requests the President to establish a cooperative international research program concerning the greenhouse effect of increased concentration of carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases in the Earth's atmosphere. Requires any such program established by the President to be started during or before 1991, which shall be known as the International Year of the Greenhouse Effect. Provides that such program should be coordinated on behalf the United States by the Chairman of the National Academy of Sciences and the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Director of the Climate Program Office in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.