United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1989
Productive Economic Participation of the Poor Act of 1989 - Amends the International Financial Institutions Act to direct the Secretary of the Treasury to instruct the U.S. Executive Director for each multilateral development bank to vigorously advocate: (1) as a central and explicit objective of such bank's operations and financing in each borrowing country, increasing the productive role of the poor in such country's economy; (2) encouraging and assisting each borrowing country to develop national plans and strategies to eliminate the causes and manifestations of poverty; (3) intensifying ongoing policy dialogue with each borrowing country to design structural adjustment plans and project lending programs which will provide maximum assistance in achieving such objective; (4) describing in detail, in the bank's country strategy documents for each borrowing country, the national strategy for productive economic participation of the poor and the steps the bank plans to take to assist the borrowing country in achieving that objective; (5) assisting countries in assessing and monitoring progress in achieving poverty alleviation goals and targets; (6) adopting procedures and budgetary allocations, and establish appropriate staffing levels, to ensure adequate resources to meet such goals; (7) adopting a preferential allocation to each country which undertakes significant efforts to enhance the productive role of the poor in such country's economy; and (8) requiring each country which receives structural adjustment assistance to have in place, after a reasonable phase-in period, a strategy to enhance the productive economic participation of the poor. Requires: (1) the Secretary of the Treasury to submit a progress report within a year to specified congressional committees; and (2) each annual report to the Congress by the National Advisory Council on International Monetary and Financial Policies to describe the status of procedures in specified multilateral development banks specifically designed to increase the productive role of the poor in the economies of borrowing countries.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1989
Interstate Compact - Quad Cities Interstate Metropolitan Authority Compact - Grants congressional approval to the Quad Cities Interstate Metropolitan Authority Compact, which provides for the creation of a Quad Cities interstate authority to manage facilities and foster cooperative efforts for development within the communities of Scott County, Iowa, and Rock Island, Illinois.
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1989
Chemical and Biological Warfare Elimination Act - Title I: Measures to Prevent the Proliferation of Chemical and Biological Weapons - Declares it is U.S. policy to seek multilaterally coordinated efforts with other countries to control the proliferation of chemical and biological weapons. Requires the President to use the U.S. export control laws to control the export of defense articles, defense services, goods, and technologies that he determines would assist a country in acquiring the capability to produce or use such weapons. Amends the Export Administration Act of 1979 to require a validated export license for the export of any goods or technology that the President determines would assist a country in acquiring such weapons, unless the destination of such export is a country with which the United States has an arrangement for their control. Requires the President to impose certain sanctions against foreign persons if he determines that such persons knowingly contributed to the efforts of a country to acquire or use chemical or biological weapons in violation of international law. Declares such sanctions to include: (1) denial of U.S. procurement contracts for goods or services from such foreign persons; and (2) prohibition against importation of products from such persons. Authorizes the President to waive imposition of such sanctions if he determines that it is in the national security interests of the United States. Title II: Measures to Deter the Use of Chemical or Biological Weapons - Requires the President to determine whether a foreign country is using or developing chemical or biological weapons in violation of international law. Requires the President to impose certain sanctions against countries that do so. Declares such sanctions to include: (1) prohibition against arms sales and security-sensitive goods and technology; (2) prohibition of the export of U.S. goods and technology (except agricultural products); (3) import restrictions; (4) denial of foreign assistance; (5) U.S. opposition to loan or financial assistance from international and U.S. financial institutions; and (6) the suspension of diplomatic relations. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Requires the President to transmit to the Congress a report regarding the use or development of chemical or biological weapons by countries in violation of international law.
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1989
Commends the citizens of the Sioux City, Iowa, tri-State area for their heroism and volunteerism in providing assistance to the passengers and crew of crashed United Airlines Flight 232.
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1989
Veterans Agent Orange Exposure and Vietnam Service Benefits Act of 1989 - Provides that the disease of chloracne in Vietnam veterans shall be considered to have been service-connected if such disease became manifest to a ten percent or more degree of disability within one year after the last date on which the veteran performed such service in Vietnam. Presumes the following diseases to be service-connected for veterans who performed active service in Vietnam during the Vietnam era, notwithstanding that there is no record of evidence of such disease during the period of such service: (1) non-Hodgkins lymphoma; (2) soft-tissue sarcoma; and (3) melanoma and basal cell carcinoma. Provides a presumption of service-connection in the case of a Vietnam veteran suffering from a disease associated with effects of exposure to certain dioxins or other herbicide agents during such service in Vietnam. Directs the Secretary to prescribe regulations listing a positive association between any disease and the biological effects of exposure to an herbicide agent in Vietnam. Requires the Secretary to update such list continually. Requires the Secretary, in prescribing and revising such list, to obtain by contract the determinations and estimates of a contract scientific organization. Requires such organization to: (1) determine which diseases have any degree of association with the biological effects of exposure to an herbicide agent; and (2) estimate the extent of association between each such disease and each such biological effects. Requires the organization to determine such association specifically with respect to non-Hodgkins lymphoma, each soft-tissue sarcoma, lung cancer, and each other cancer. Outlines contract provisions required in such agreements between the Secretary and the scientific organization, including surveys, evaluations, and periodic determinations. Requires such scientific organization to provide reports to the Secretary and the Senate and House Veterans' Affairs Committees regarding its determinations and evaluations. Requires such organization to determine, in the effect of a positive association, whether there is a reasonable basis for concluding that a Vietnam veteran with the highest level of exposure to that herbicide agent in Vietnam was exposed to such agent under the circumstances necessary for such biological effects. Requires a report from the organization to the Secretary and the veterans' committees when there is no such reasonable basis found. Requires the Secretary to make certain determinations and follow-up reports after receiving such reports from the contract scientific organization, including the issuance of a report to the veterans' committees and the promulgation of positive association regulations, if necessary. Requires benefits to be continued even though a disease is removed from the regulations listing diseases having positive associations. Terminates such contracting authority ten years after the first day of the fiscal year in which a scientific organization transmits its first report to the Secretary. Provides special effective dates. Directs the Secretary to compile and analyze all clinical data that: (1) is obtained by the Department in connection with examinations and treatment of veterans for disabilities related to exposure to certain herbicides or to service in Vietnam; and (2) is likely to be scientifically useful in determining the association, if any, between the disabilities of such veterans and their exposure to such herbicides and other toxic substances. Requires the Secretary to submit an annual report to the veterans' committees concerning such analysis and its results. Directs the Secretary to consult with the Director of the National Institutes of Health Research and Grants Division (NIH) before compiling and analyzing such information. Requires the Director of NIH to review each annual report submitted by the Secretary and transmit to the Secretary an evaluation of the contents of each report. Directs the Secretary to establish and maintain a system for the collection and storage of voluntarily contributed samples of blood and tissue of veterans who performed active service in Vietnam during the Vietnam era. Outlines provisions concerning the security and authorized uses of such specimens, as well as limitations on the acceptance of such samples. Requires the Secretary to consult with the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) to the extent that an agreement has been reached with the NAS serving as the contract scientific organization for the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to consult with the Director of the Medical Follow-up Agency in the event of no agreement with NAS. Directs the Secretary to establish a program to provide for the conduct of studies of the feasibility of conducting additional scientific research on health hazards resulting from: (1) exposure to dioxin; (2) exposure to other toxic agents in herbicides used in support of U.S. and allied military operations in Vietnam during the Vietnam era; and (3) active military, naval, or air service there. Requires the Secretary to report to the veterans' committees on the results of such studies. Requires the Secretary to consult with the NAS before undertaking such studies and requires the NAS, to review such studies and report recommendations to the Secretary and the veterans' committees, to the extent provided under any agreement between the Secretary and NAS. Amends the Veterans' Benefits Improvement Act of 1988 to require the Secretary to annually furnish updated information to veterans listed in the Department of Veterans Affairs' Agent Orange Registry on health risks resulting from exposure to dioxin or other toxic agents in herbicides as a result of service in Vietnam during the Vietnam era. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to report to the veterans' committees on the research being conducted to develop treatments for psychological absorption of dioxin and other toxic agents used in herbicides by the United States in Vietnam, including research relating to exposure to dioxin and other toxic agents outside Vietnam. Extends through December 31, 2000, the eligibility for hospital and nursing home care for veterans exposed to toxic substances in Vietnam. Amends the Veterans' Benefits Improvement Act of 1988 to authorize direct consultation between the Ranch Hand Advisory Committee and Department of the Air Force scientists conducting the Ranch Hand Study (a study of the long-term health effects of exposure to phenoxy herbicides and contaminants). Requires the preparation and submission of annual reports and a final report in connection with such study.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1989
Designates the week of October 22 through October 29, 1989, as National Red Ribbon Week. Recognizes and commends the hard work and dedication of certain individuals and organizations and urges activities that support community and alcohol education during such week. Encourages Americans to wear or display red ribbons during such Week to present and symbolize their commitment to a healthy, drug-free lifestyle, and to develop an attitude of intolerance to the use of drugs.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1989
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should: (1) take immediate steps to achieve a consensus among South Africa's major trading partners on effective economic, political, and diplomatic measures to bring an end to apartheid; (2) implement all provisions of the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act of 1986 and the recommendations of the Secretary of State's Advisory Committee on South Africa; (3) take steps to bring about concerted multilateral pressure to dismantle apartheid; (4) instruct the Permanent Representative of the United States to the United Nations to offer a resolution in the Security Council that would impose selective mandatory sanctions against South Africa (similar to those embodied in the Anti-Apartheid Act) for 12 months; (5) strengthen the impact of such Act through diplomatic and political pressure; (6) direct specified executive agencies to monitor trade relations between South Africa and U.S. allies; and (7) take action against those countries benefiting from or taking advantage of U.S. sanctions against South Africa.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 1989
Birth Control and Infertility Research Centers Act of 1989 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Director of the Institute of Child Health and Human Development to make grants and enter into contracts for centers for improving methods of birth control and centers for diagnosing and treating infertility. Requires the Director, subject to appropriations, to provide for three centers with respect to birth control and two centers with respect to infertility. Requires each center to: (1) conduct clinical and other applied research; (2) develop training protocols for and conduct training of physicians, scientists, nurses, and other health and allied health professionals; (3) develop model continuing education programs; and (4) disseminate information to such professionals. Allows a center to use the funds to provide: (1) stipends for health and allied health professionals enrolled in the training programs; and (2) fees to individuals serving as subjects in the clinical trials. Requires each center to use the facilities of a single institution, or be formed from a consortium of cooperating institutions, meeting requirements as prescribed by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Allows support for a center to be for a period of up to five years, with extensions of one or more periods of up to five years if the center's operations have been reviewed by a peer review group and the group has so recommended. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1994. Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary to establish a program of entering into agreements with health professionals, including graduate students, under which the professionals agree to conduct research with respect to birth control or infertility in consideration of the Government agreeing to repay, for each year of such service, not more than a specified amount of the principal and interest of their educational loans. Applies provisions of the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program to this program, except as inconsistent. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1992. Requires amounts appropriated to remain available until the end of the second fiscal year after they are appropriated.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 1989
Declares that the Congress should: (1) establish a program of research for the development of methods of birth control and methods of diagnosing and treating infertility; (2) provide adequate long-term resources for the program; (3) ensure that Federal programs with respect to sexually transmitted diseases adequately respond to the role of such diseases in infertility; (4) ensure public education on birth control and infertility; (5) establish as Federal goals the development, by the year 2010, of improved barrier methods to protect against pregnancy and diseases, new methods of birth control for use by men, a vaccine-like drug for women that prevents pregnancy for a significant period of time without other specified effects, and new and improved techniques of diagnosing and treating infertility; (6) require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to reestablish the Ethical Advisory Board in order to facilitate research with respect to infertility; (7) review the policies and procedures of the Food and Drug Administration with respect to expediting approval of drugs and devices for use by the public, especially with respect to birth control and infertility; and (8) determine to what extent measures can be implemented by public or private entities to resolve liability issues involved with drugs and devices concerned with birth control and infertility.
United States · United States Congress · 29 June 1989
Provides for the awarding of the Purple Heart to former prisoners of war held captive before April 25, 1962, on the same basis at it may be awarded former prisoners of war captured on or after such date.
United States · United States Congress · 29 June 1989
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend from December 31, 1989, until December 31, 1992, the exemption from the termination of small issue bonds for farm property and manufacturing facilities located in rural areas.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1989
Christopher Columbus Coin and Fellowship Act - Title I: Christopher Columbus Quincentenary Coins - Christopher Columbus Quincentenary Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue not more than a specified number of five dollar gold coins, one dollar silver coins, and half dollar clad coins emblematic of the quincentary of the discovery of America. Sets forth certain features of such coins and provides for their design, issuance, and sale. Terminates the minting of such coins after June 30, 1993. Requires the Secretary to deposit surcharges from the sale of such coins in the Christopher Columbus Fellowship Fund for use by the Christopher Columbus Fellowship Foundation. Declares that no law governing procurement or public contracts shall be applicable to the procurement of goods and services necessary for carrying out this Act, except that this provision shall not relieve any person from complying with any law relating to equal employment opportunity. Title II: Christopher Columbus Fellowship Foundation - Christopher Columbus Fellowship Act - Establishes the Christopher Columbus Fellowship Foundation to award fellowships to outstanding individuals to encourage new discoveries in all fields of endeavor for the benefit of mankind. Establishes the Christopher Columbus Fellowship Fund. Directs the Foundation to report to the President and to the Congress annually on its operations.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1989
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that individuals throughout the United States should observe Independence Day, July 4, 1989, as Take Pride in the Flag Day to celebrate the 213th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the 201st anniversary of the ratification of the U.S. Constitution.
United States · United States Congress · 21 June 1989
Product Liability Reform Act of 1989 - Declares that this Act governs any product liability action brought in any State or Federal court against a manufacturer or product seller, on any theory, for harm. States that a civil action brought against a manufacturer or product seller for commercial loss shall be governed by applicable commercial or contract law. Supersedes any inconsistent State law regarding recovery in such actions. Lists specific laws not superseded, including: (1) defense of sovereign immunity asserted by any State or by the United States; (2) any Federal law (except the Federal Employees Compensation Act and the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act); (3) the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act of 1976; (4) State choice-of-law rules; (5) the right of any court to transfer venue or to apply the law of a foreign nation or to dismiss a claim of a foreign nation or citizen on the ground of inconvenient forum; and (6) any statutory or common law cause of action which is not an action for harm caused by a product or an action to abate a nuisance and which is for civil damages or civil penalties, clean up costs, injunctions, restitution, cost recovery, punitive damages, or any other form of relief from contamination or pollution of the environment or the threat of it. Makes this Act (except provisions relating to workers' compensation offset) inapplicable to any product liability action brought in State or Federal court, on any theory, for harm caused by asbestos or asbestos products. Provides that, with respect to civil actions brought for vaccine-related injury or death, if specified provisions of the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) take effect and establish a Federal rule of law or defense applicable to such actions, then this Act does not affect the application of such rule of law or defense and any conflicting rule or defense prescribed by this Act shall not apply to such an action. Provides that if there is an aspect of such an action for which a PHSA rule or defense does not apply, then this Act or otherwise applicable law will apply to such aspect. Establishes a standard of manufacturer liability in product liability actions for proximate causes of harm, established by a preponderance of the evidence, which fall under the categories of: (1) negligence; (2) strict product liability; or (3) intentional wrongdoing. Provides that negligence shall be in terms of a manufacturer's failure to act as a reasonably prudent person would with respect to product design, construction, warnings, or instructions. Provides that strict liability shall be with respect to a product's being in an unreasonably dangerous defective condition in: (1) deviation from standards; (2) nonconformance with an express warranty; (3) failure to contain adequate warnings or instructions; or (4) design (in which case State law governs with respect to establishment of a prima facie case). Provides that a manufacturer's intentional wrongdoing shall be determined under applicable State law. Sets forth a defense to manufacturer liability based on a product's inherent characteristics. Provides that a product shall not be considered to be in an unreasonably dangerous defective condition if the product aspect which allegedly caused the harm cannot be made safe and is not dangerous to an extent beyond that which would be contemplated by the ordinary person who uses or consumes the product with the knowledge common to the community as to its characteristics. Provides that such defense does not limit a manufacturer's liability solely because the risk of harm is patent, open, or obvious. Provides that a manufacturer shall not be relieved of liability on the grounds that the product that allegedly caused the harm was unavoidably unsafe, unless the product is a drug or medical device. Provides that in product liability actions involving an improperly designed and unavoidably unsafe drug or medical device, the manufacturer's liability shall be determined under State law (and the state-of-the-art defense under this Act shall not apply). Sets forth a state-of-the-art defense. Provides that the manufacturer shall not be liable for the design of the product if the manufacturer establishes by a preponderance of the evidence that at the time the product left its control: (1) the manufacturer did not and could not know that the product was in an unreasonably dangerous defective condition because of its design in light of knowledge reasonably available to experts; or (2) there was not a feasible alternative design that would have prevented the harm without substantially impairing the reasonably anticipated or intended function of the product (considering specified factors). Makes the state-of-the-art defense inapplicable if the court finds, on its own or on a party's motion, that a claimant has established by a preponderance of the evidence that the product is so unsafe compared to its usefulness that it should not have been marketed. Sets forth standards for product warnings and instructions. Provides that a product is in an unreasonably dangerous defective condition because it failed to contain adequate warnings and instructions if reasonably prudent, adequate warnings or instructions, in the light of knowledge reasonably available to experts, on the aspect (including a design aspect) which caused the harm: (1) did not accompany the product at the time it left the manufacturer's control; or (2) were not given on a timely basis by the manufacturer before the harm. Requires that specified factors be considered. Establishes, in addition to the general standard of manufacturer's liability, a presumption of liability applicable to manufacturers of fire fighting equipment or protective clothing for harm suffered by any fire fighter performing interior structural firefighting if: (1) the harm was the result of the use of such equipment or clothing which left the manufacturer's control after the enactment of this Act; and (2) the equipment or clothing did not comply with the OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Act) fire brigade occupational safety and health standards or a more stringent State standard. Establishes a standard of product seller liability in product liability actions for proximate causes of harm, established by a preponderance of the evidence, which fall under the categories of: (1) negligence; (2) express warranty; or (3) intentional wrongdoing. Provides that such negligence shall be in terms of a product seller's failure to exercise reasonable care with respect to the product. Provides that it shall not be such a failure based on an alleged failure to inspect a product where there was no reasonable opportunity to inspect it in a manner which would or should, in the exercise of reasonable care, have revealed the aspect which allegedly caused the harm. Provides that such product seller's express warranty must be independent of any express warranty of the manufacturer. Provides that a product seller's intentional wrongdoing shall be determined under applicable State law. Establishes an additional product seller liability as a manufacturer. Makes the product seller liable as if it were the manufacturer if: (1) the manufacturer is not subject to service of process under the laws of the State in which the claimant brings the action; or (2) the court determines that the claimant would be unable to enforce a judgment against the manufacturer. Sets forth a defense based on a claimant's being, as a result of the influence of intoxicating alcohol or any non-over-the-counter drug which has not been prescribed for the claimant by a physician, more than 50 percent at fault for the harm. Reduces the manufacturer's or product seller's liability for damages by the percentage of responsibility for the harm attributable to misuse or alteration of a product. Allows punitive damages to be awarded, to the extent provided by applicable State law, if the claimant establishes by clear and convincing evidence that the manufacturer or product seller engaged in conduct giving rise to punitive damages under applicable State law, with the following exception. Provides that a failure to exercise reasonable care in selecting among alternative product designs, formulations, instructions, or warnings shall not, by itself, constitute conduct that may give rise to punitive damages. Requires separate proceedings for punitive damages if such separate proceedings are requested by the defendant. Makes evidence in such separate proceedings which is relevant only to the claim of punitive damages inadmissible in any proceeding for compensatory damages. Directs the trier of fact, in determining the amount of punitive damages, to consider all relevant evidence, including specified factors. Prohibits punitive damages against a manufacturer of a drug or medical device unless the claimant establishes by clear and convincing evidence that the manufacturer or product seller engaged in conduct giving rise to punitive damages under applicable State law and unless the manufacturer engaged in: (1) intentional and wrongful withholding or misrepresentation of information, material and relevant to the harm, which either was required to be submitted before the approval of the drug or device or was related to the safety and efficacy of the drug or device after its approval, under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) or the Public Health Service Act; or (2) a violation of the FFDCA which was material and relevant to the harm and was committed with the intent to defraud or mislead, as determined by the court and proven by clear and convincing evidence. Prohibits punitive damages against a drug manufacturer where the harm is alleged to relate to the adequacy of the packaging or labeling of a drug required to have tamper-resistant packaging (and related labeling), unless the drug is found by clear and convincing evidence to be substantially out of compliance with Federal regulations. Makes findings with respect to punitive damages relating to drugs and medical devices inadmissible in any criminal proceeding. Requires that civil actions subject to this Act be brought within two years from the time the individual discovered or should have discovered the harm and its cause, with the following exception. Bars actions for harm caused by a product which is a capital good unless the complaint is served and filed within 25 years of the date of delivery of the product to its first purchaser or lessee who was not engaged in the business of selling or leasing it or using it as a component in the manufacture of another product. Applies this capital goods rule only if: (1) the court determines that the claimant has received or would be eligible to receive State or Federal workers' compensation for the harm; and (2) the harm did not include chronic illness. Reduces any damages awarded under this Act by the amount paid in workers' compensation benefits which the claimant-employee is or would be entitled to receive. Provides for such reduction only where the employer or the employer's workers' compensation insurance carrier does not have a lien against the claimant's recovery in a product liability action against a claimant or product seller. Provides that determinations under this Act of workers' compensation benefits shall have no binding effect on, and shall not be used as evidence in, any other proceeding. Allows the claimant to stay product liability actions under this Act until the workers' compensation benefits have been determined. Provides that the employer and its insurance carrier shall have no right of subrogation, contribution, or implied indemnity against an award made under this Act, unless the employer establishes, and the trier of fact determines, that the harm was not caused in any way by fault of the employer or a co-employee. Prohibits any third-party tortfeasor from maintaining any action for implied indemnity or contributions against the employer, any co-employee, or the exclusive representative of the injured party. Provides that nothing in this Act shall affect any provision of State or Federal workers' compensation law which: (1) prohibits a person who is or would have been entitled to receive compensation under such law, or any derivative claim, from recovering in any other action against an employer, employer's insurer, co-employee, or exclusive representative; or (2) permits recovery based on an intentional tort by the employer or co-employee. Declares that this Act's restrictions on third-party claim tortfeasors shall not apply and applicable State law shall control if the employer or its insurer, in a product liability action subject to this Act, asserts or attempts to assert, because of provisions relating to its lack of fault under this Act, a right of subrogation, contribution, or implied indemnity against the manufacturer or product seller or a lien against the claimant's recovery from them. Sets forth standards, procedures, and sanctions relating to frivolous pleadings under this Act. Provides for the availability of information under this Act. Provides that U.S. district courts shall not have jurisdiction over any civil action arising under this Act. Requires the court in which any action is brought under this Act, upon the application of any party to the action, to refer the action to mediation, unless the court determines that the action involves novel or unsettled issues of law or is otherwise unsuitable for mediation. Allows the court to impose fees to cover the costs of the mediation. Makes mediation statements, briefs, and summaries inadmissable in any court or any other evidentiary proceeding. Requires the evaluation by the mediation panel to include a separate award for each claim, crossclaim, counterclaim, or third-party claim. Requires each party to file an acceptance or rejection of the panel's award, with special procedures for multiple parties. Requires that the action proceed to trial with respect to any claim for which any party rejects the mediation award. Makes the findings, evaluations, and awards of the panel and the parties' acceptance or rejection inadmissable at trial. Requires the rejecting party to pay the opposing party's costs, upon request, unless the verdict is more favorable to the rejecting party than the mediation award. Requires each State Attorney General and the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts to report to the Attorney General, and the Attorney General to report to the Congress regarding implementation of the mediation provisions of this Act. Sets forth definitions under this Act. Excludes commercial loss from the definition of harm. Defines harm as any of the following caused by a product: (1) personal physical illness, injury, or death; (2) mental anguish or emotional harm caused by or causing personal physical illness or injury; or (3) physical damage to property other than the product itself. Directs the Secretary of Commerce (the Secretary) to report to the Congress on the effect of the implementation of this Act upon the cost and availability of product liability insurance. Sets forth requirements relating to the information on which such report is based. Requires such a report annually for ten years, after which the Secretary shall report on the costs and benefits of continuing such reports and continue them only if so requested by a majority of specified congressional committees. Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress on what information is needed to enable the Congress to measure the effect of product liability reforms on product liability actions. Requires consultation with specified entities in making such report. Requires specified information to be included in such report. Requires the report to be submitted within 18 months after the enactment of this Act. Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress on the effect of this Act upon product liability actions, product manufacturers, and product sellers (including small businesses), claimants, and Federal and State courts. Requires such report to assess specified factors. Requires such a report to be made biennially five times, after which the Secretary shall report on the costs and benefits of continuing such reports and continue them only if so requested by a majority of specified congressional committees. Directs the Secretary, upon determining that sufficient data does not exist to measure the effect of product liability reform on litigation, to report on what information is needed to enable the Congress to measure the effect of product liability reforms on product liability actions. Requires consultation with specified entities in making such report. Requires specified information to be included in such report. Requires the report to be submitted within 18 months after enactment of this Act. Declares that this Act shall not apply to any product liability cause of action arising from the use of a product before the date of enactment of this Act against a person who is a debtor in a case commenced on a specified date under bankruptcy provisions of Federal law.
United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1989
Designates June 21, 1989, as Chaney, Goodman, and Schwerner Day. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Voting Rights Act of 1965 has helped to fulfill the promise of democracy in this Nation. Reaffirms the goal of removing remaining barriers to full voter participation in this Nation.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 1989
Amends the Bretton Woods Agreements Act to authorize the U.S. Governor of the International Monetary Fund to contribute $150,000,000 to the Interest Subsidy Account of the Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility of the Fund. Prohibits the U.S. Governor from making a commitment to contribute before such amount has been appropriated for such purpose. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 1989
Amends the Inter-American Development Bank Act to authorize the U.S. Governor of the Bank to vote for resolutions which: (1) were transmitted by the Board of Executive Directors to the Governors by resolution of April 19, 1989; (2) are pending before the Board of Governors of the Bank; and (3) provide for increases in the authorized capital stock of the Bank and resources of the Fund for Special Operations. Permits the Governor, upon adoption of such resolutions, to subscribe to a certain number of shares of the increase in capital stock and contribute a certain amount to the Fund. Authorizes appropriations to pay for such increases.
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 1989
Older Americans' Freedom to Work Act of 1989 - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to remove the limitation on the amount of outside income which beneficiaries who have attained retirement age may earn without incurring a reduction in benefits.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1989
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow farmers' cooperatives to elect to treat as ordinary income or loss certain capital gains and losses from the disposition of assets used in conducting business with or for patrons.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1989
Amends specified Federal law providing support for the Civic Achievement Award Program in Honor of the Speaker of the House of Representatives to authorize appropriations to the Librarian of Congress to disburse funds to the Close Up Foundation for such program for FY 1990 and 1991. Changes from optional to mandatory for such program (which is for students in the fifth through eighth grades) such program elements as individual and group projects, mastery of academic skills, development of library skills, and community service. Grants individual, class, and school awards for program participation. (Currently, awards may be given only for satisfying specified standards.)
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1989
Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to transfer to the Philippines, at the Philippines' expense, two excess naval vessels. Terminates such authority two years after enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1989
Declares that the Congress rejects attempts by the New People's Army, through assassinations or other violence, to force the United States to: (1) withdraw from military facilities in the Philippines; or (2) end its support for the Philippine Government. Declares that the United States should continue to provide economic and military assistance to the Philippines to facilitate its Government's efforts to consolidate democracy and combat the New People's Army insurgency. Declares that the United States will not be deterred from utilizing such military facilities pursuant to military bases agreements between the two countries.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1989
Condemns General Manuel Noriega's actions with respect to the May 7th Panamanian election, the violent attack on Guillermo Endara and others by armed thugs acting on Noriega's behalf, and the expulsion of nine international journalists. Calls on General Noriega and the Panamanian Defense Forces to: (1) honor the election by recognizing Guillermo Endara as the victorious presidential candidate; and (2) respect the internationally recognized human rights of the Panamanian people. Calls on the world community of democratic nations to rebuke General Noriega's actions. Calls on the President to consult with the Western Hemisphere democracies in developing a common effort to urge the General to honor the election results. Supports the President's policy steps as an appropriate response to the Panamanian crisis. Expresses Congress' desire to work with the President to determine U.S. foreign policy in Panama.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1989
Constitutional Amendment - Requires the Congress and the President, prior to each fiscal year, to agree on an estimate of total receipts (except those derived from borrowing) for that fiscal year by enactment of a joint single subject resolution. Prohibits outlays for that year (except those for repayment of debt principal) from exceeding this amount unless the Congress, by a three-fifths roll call vote of each House, authorizes a specific excess of outlays over receipts. Requires a three-fifths roll call vote of each House to increase the public debt. Directs the President to submit a balanced budget to the Congress. Requires the approval of a majority of the total membership of each House by roll call vote before any bill to increase revenue may become law. Waives these provisions when a declaration of war is in effect.
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1989
Sets forth congressional findings with respect to the assassination of Colonel James Rowe in the Philippines. States that the Congress rejects any attempts by the New People's Army (NPA) to force the United States to withdraw from military facilities in the Philippines or to end its support for the elected Government of the Philippines. Declares that the United States: (1) should continue to provide economic and military assistance to the Philippines to consolidate democracy, address the underlying economic problems, and combat the NPA insurgency; and (2) will not be deterred from utilizing all military facilities in the Philippines to which the United States currently has access pursuant to the military bases agreement with the Philippines. Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to transfer to the Philippines a specified drydock and medium yard tug. Waives a certain reimbursement requirement pursuant to the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 with respect to such transfer. Requires costs incurred with respect to such transfer to be at the Government of the Philippines' expense. Terminates the Secretary's authority for such transfer two years after this Act's enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1989
Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) India should schedule negotiations with Nepal as soon as possible to resolve the problems which led to the closing by India of the Nepalese-Indian border, immediately open such border, and resume the sale of Indian-refined petroleum products in Nepal; and (2) the Secretary of State should continue to monitor the dispute and provide regular briefings to the Congress on the effect of the dispute on U.S. interests in Nepal and the Indian subcontinent.
United States · United States Congress · 9 May 1989
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1989 - Title I: General Prohibition Against Discrimination - Declares that it shall be discriminatory, on the basis of disability, to deny opportunities or to afford them unequally, to provide opportunities less effectively (or differently or separately, unless necessary for effectiveness), to assist an organization or individual that discriminates, or to otherwise limit opportunities enjoyed by others. Prohibits the use of standards, criteria, or administrative methods that have the purpose or effect of discrimination or perpetuate discrimination. Declares it discriminatory to deny equal opportunities because of the relationship or association of an individual with another individual with a disability. Allows as a defense to a charge of discrimination that an application of standards or criteria has been demonstrated to be both necessary and substantially related to the ability of an individual to take advantage of the essential components of the opportunity, and that the taking advantage cannot be accomplished by reasonable accommodations, modifications, or the provision of auxiliary aids or services. Title II: Employment - Prohibits discrimination by any employer, employment agency, labor organization, or joint labor-management committee against any qualified individual with a disability in job application procedures, hiring or discharge, compensation, advancement, training, and other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment. Lists types of actions construed to be discrimination. Makes the remedies set forth in specified provisions of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other specified Federal law available to any individual who believes that he or she is being or is about to be subjected to discrimination in violation of this Act. Title III: Public Services - Declares that no qualified individual with a disability shall be excluded from the participation in, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination by a State, or by an agency, political subdivision, or other instrumentality of a State. Lists types of actions deemed, for purposes of this Act and specified provisions of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, to be discrimination with regard to public transportation. Makes the remedies and rights set forth in specified provisions of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 available to any individual who believes that he or she is being or is about to be subjected to discrimination in violation of this Act. Title IV: Public Accommodations and Services Operated by Private Entities - Prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in the enjoyment of any place of public accommodation. Lists types of actions construed to be discrimination. Prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in public transportation services provided by a private entity that is primarily engaged in transporting people, but that is not in the principal business of air transportation. Lists types of actions construed to be discrimination. Makes specified provisions of the Fair Housing Act relating to enforcement available, subject to exception, to any aggrieved individual. Title V: Telecommunications Relay Services - Defines "telecommunications relay services" to mean services that enable simultaneous communication between individuals who use telecommunications devices for the deaf (TDDs) or other nonvoice terminal devices and individuals who do not use such devices. Declares it discriminatory for any common carrier that offers telephone services to the public to fail to provide interstate or intrastate telecommunication relay services that are equal to those provided to their customers who are able to use voice services, except in any State in which services are provided through an entity designated by the State. Declares it discrimination by a State that makes such a designation if the State fails to provide interstate or intrastate relay services that are equal to those provided to their voice customers. Makes specified provisions of the Fair Housing Act relating to enforcement available, subject to exception, to any aggrieved individual. Requires the Federal Communications Commission to enforce this title. Makes specified provisions of the Communications Act of 1934 apply with respect to the enforcement of this title. Provides for cease and desist orders by the Commission and for monetary penalties. Title VI: Miscellaneous Provisions - Prohibits retaliatory discrimination against any individual because of actions related to this Act. Declares that a State shall not be immune under the 11th Amendment to the Constitution from an action in Federal court for a violation of this Act. Requires the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board to issue minimum guidelines to supplement the existing Minimum Guidelines and Requirements for Accessible Design. Allows the awarding of reasonable attorney's fees, in certain circumstances, in any action or proceeding under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 9 May 1989
Calls on the Government of Vietnam to: (1) make public the names of all individuals who continue to be held in "reeducation" camps or prisons in connection with suspected opposition to the Government of Vietnam; (2) release immediately all remaining long-term detainees from such camps or prisons; and (3) resume negotiations with the United States, without preconditions, concerning the emigration from Vietnam of such detainees and their families.
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1989
Soybean Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to issue an order (subject to producer referendum) creating a soybean promotion, research, and consumer education program. Requires any such order to provide for the establishment of a: (1) United Soybean Board; and (2) Soybean Program Coordinating Committee. Funds such program through producer assessments. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1989
Authorizes the approval and entry into force of certain agreements of March 1988 between the United States and the Marshall Islands and the United States and Micronesia to amend the governmental representation provisions of the Compact of Free Association.
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1989
Designates the Labor Day weekend beginning on September 2, 1989, as National Drive for Life Weekend. Calls on people to observe that weekend with a pledge to not drink and drive.
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1989
Commission on the Mississippi River National Heritage Corridor Act of 1989 - Establishes the Commission on the Mississippi River National Heritage Corridor to investigate and make recommendations regarding: (1) the creation of a Mississippi River National Heritage Corridor, to run through Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee, and Wisconsin; and (2) other issues affecting the growth and development of the Corridor. Terminates such Commission 90 days after submission of a specified report. Authorizes appropriations.
![Official portrait of Rep. Leach, James A. [R-IA-2]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/l000169_200.jpg)