United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1976
Joint Committee on Intelligence Operations Act - Establishes a Congressional Joint Committee on Intelligence Operations to conduct continuing oversight of, and to exercise exclusive legislative jurisdiction over, the foreign intelligence activities of: (1) the Central Intelligence Agency; (2) the Defense Intelligence Agency; (3) the National Security Agency; (4) the Bureau of Intelligence and Research; (5) Army, Navy, and Air Force Intelligence; and (6) other agencies to the extent that such agencies engage in foreign intelligence activities. Requires that the Director of Central Intelligence must keep the joint committee fully informed with respect to all foreign intelligence activities of the United States. Sets forth the administrative powers of the joint committee. Charges the joint committee with the establishment of guidelines for the classification of information originating with the joint committee. Prescribes penalties for the public release of classified materials by any congressional officer, employee of the joint committee, or former congressional officer or employee of the joint committee. Requires that no nonintelligence gathering operation, under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, may be conducted until 30 days after the President reports such operation to the joint committee, unless it is essential to national security that such operation begin immediately. Ceases all such operations which at any time are disapproved by the joint committee.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1976
Authorizes and requests the President to issue a proclamation designating the week beginning on November 7, 1976, as "National Respiratory Therapy Week".
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1976
Directs the Federal courts to consider, in their determinations of the imposition of terms of imprisonment for criminal offenses, the following factors: (1) the nature and circumstances of the offense and the history and characteristics of the defendant; (2) the need for the sentence imposed to reflect the seriousness of the offense and the providing of adequate deterrence to criminal conduct; (3) whether other less restrictive sanctions have been applied to the defendant frequently or recently; and (4) any sentencing guidelines established by the Commission under this Act. Establishes a United States Commission on Sentencing as an independent commission within the judicial branch of the United States Government to consist of five members appointed by the United States Judicial Conference. Directs such Commission to promulgate and distribute to all Federal courts guidelines for sentencing consistent with this Act. Empowers the Commission to establish general policies and rules necessary to carry out this Act. Empowers the Commission to utilize the services and information of other Federal, State, local and private agencies with or without reimbursement therefor. Empowers the Commission to establish a research and development program for the purpose of: (1) serving as a clearinghouse and information center for the collection, preparation, and dissemination of information on Federal sentencing practices; and (2) assisting and serving in a consulting capacity to Federal courts, departments, and agencies in the development, maintenance, and coordination of sound sentencing practices. Empowers the Commission to devise and conduct a training program of short-term instruction in sentencing techniques for judicial and probation personnel and other persons connected with the sentencing process. Requires the Commission to report annually to the Congress, the Judicial Conference, and the President on its activities. (Adds 18 U.S.C. 3579, 3621, 3657, 3742, 3801-5)
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1976
Grants judicial officers the power to deny pretrial release to persons charged with the commission of violent crimes if there is reason to believe that such persons would flee or pose a danger to others or the community. (Adds 18 U.S.C. 3146A; Amends 18 U.S.C. 3156a)
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1976
Grants judicial officers the power to deny pretrial release to persons charged with the commission of violent crimes if there is reason to believe that such persons would flee or pose a danger to others or the community. (Adds 18 U.S.C. 3146A; Amends 18 U.S.C. 3156a)
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1976
Directs the Federal courts to consider, in their determinations of the imposition of terms of imprisonment for criminal offenses, the following factors: (1) the nature and circumstances of the offense and the history and characteristics of the defendant; (2) the need for the sentence imposed to reflect the seriousness of the offense and the providing of adequate deterrence to criminal conduct; (3) whether other less restrictive sanctions have been applied to the defendant frequently or recently; and (4) any sentencing guidelines established by the Commission under this Act. Establishes a United States Commission on Sentencing as an independent commission within the judicial branch of the United States Government to consist of five members appointed by the United States Judicial Conference. Directs such Commission to promulgate and distribute to all Federal courts guidelines for sentencing consistent with this Act. Empowers the Commission to establish general policies and rules necessary to carry out this Act. Empowers the Commission to utilize the services and information of other Federal, State, local and private agencies with or without reimbursement therefor. Empowers the Commission to establish a research and development program for the purpose of: (1) serving as a clearinghouse and information center for the collection, preparation, and dissemination of information on Federal sentencing practices; and (2) assisting and serving in a consulting capacity to Federal courts, departments, and agencies in the development, maintenance, and coordination of sound sentencing practices. Empowers the Commission to devise and conduct a training program of short-term instruction in sentencing techniques for judicial and probation personnel and other persons connected with the sentencing process. Requires the Commission to report annually to the Congress, the Judicial Conference, and the President on its activities. (Adds 18 U.S.C. 3579, 3621, 3657, 3742, 3801-5)
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1976
Antitrust Civil Process Act Amendments - Revises the discovery procedures and requirements for Federal civil antitrust investigations. Revises the procedures and requirements for seeking an order modifying or setting aside discovery demands by the Justice Department in antitrust cases.
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1976
District of Columbia Retirement Reform Act - Title I: Financing of Retirement Benefits - Establishes the District of Columbia Retirement Board to exercise exclusive authority to manage and control the Funds established by this Act. Details provisions relating to the Boards' composition, the election and terms of office of Board members, the procedures to be followed by the Board, and the financing of the Boards' operations. Establishes the District of Columbia Policemen and Firemen's Retirement Fund into which shall be deposited (1) amounts withheld from the salaries of, and amounts deposited by members of the Metropolitan Police, the Fire Department of the District of Columbia, the United States Park Police, the Executive Protective Service, and the United States Secret Service, pursuant to the Policemen and Firemen's Retirement and Disability Act, (2) amounts appropriated to the Fund pursuant to this Act, and (3) amounts made as return on investment of the assets of the Fund. Establishes the District of Columbia Teachers' Retirement Fund into which shall be deposited (1) amounts withheld from the salaries of, and amounts deposited by, each teacher in the public schools of the District of Columbia for such teacher's retirement account, (2) amounts appropriated to the Fund pursuant to this Act, and (3) amounts made as return on investment of the assets of the Fund. Establishes the District of Columbia Judges' Retirement Fund into which shall be deposited (1) amounts withheld from the salaries of, and amounts deposited by, judges of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals and the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, (2) amounts appropriated to the Fund pursuant to this Act, and (3) amounts made as return on investment of the assets of the Fund. Requires that the assets of each Fund established by this Act be kept separate from other moneys, but not necessarily kept separate from one another if the Board determines that commingling of such assets is advisable for investment purposes. Requires the Board to maintain a cash reserve for the funds sufficient to meet current annuity and disability benefit outlays. Prohibits the investment of assets of the Funds in obligations issued or guaranteed in whole or in part by the government of the District of Columbia or in obligations secured by real property in the District of Columbia. Directs the Baord to engage an enrolled actuary to periodically determine (1) the amount required to be deposited in each Fund annually in perpetuity in order to meet the cost of annuities and other retirement and disability benefits payable in perpetuity from the fund less the amount of employee contributions to the Fund, and (2) the amount required to meet the obligations of each Fund for the next fiscal year less employee contributions for such period. Sets forth formulas to determine annual Federal payments and annual District of Columbia payments to each Fund. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums from the revenues of the United States and from amounts in the United States Treasury credited to the District of Columbia for Federal and District of Columbia contributions to each fund, respectively. Directs the Board to publish annual reports with respect to each retirement program and corresponding Fund to which this Act applies. Requires that each such report include (1) a financial statement containing a statement of Fund assets and liabilities, a statement of changes in net assets available for benefits under the retirement program, and other specified information; (2) an opinion by an independent public accountant as to whether such financial statement is presented in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles; (3) an actuarial statement containing specified information relating to the Fund and retirement program; (4) information relating to the number of employees covered by the retirement program, persons receiving compensation from the Fund, and specified changes to the Funds' operation; and (5) a report from each insurance company or similar organization from which program benefits are purchased or which guarantees such benefits. Directs the Board to prepare summary retirement program descriptions to be supplied to each participant in, and beneficiary under, each retirement program to which this Act applies. Requires that annual reports and copies of summary retirement program descriptions be filed with the mayor of the District of Columbia, the District of Columbia Council, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the President pro tempore of the Senate. Empowers the Mayor, the Council, or either House of Congress to reject any filing upon making specified findings. Suspends Federal contributions to any Fund with respect to which a filing is rejected or not timely filing has been made pending an acceptable filing. Requires that copies of such reports and descriptions be made available for public inspection. Authorizes the Board to designate one or more persons to exercise fiduciary responsibilities with respect to Funds established by this Act but places with the Board fiduciary responsibility for the oversight of any person so designated. Lists standards and guidelines to be followed by fiduciaries in the discharge of their duties. Specifies circumstances under which a fiduciary shall be liable for a breach of fiduciary duty by another fiduciary. Prohibits a fiduciary from causing the Fund to engage in specified transactions with interested parties or with itself. Deems void any provision in an agreement or instrument which purports to relieve a fiduciary from responsibility or liability. Permits the Board, fiduciaries, and groups of retirement program participants to purchase breach insurance to cover liability or losses arising from a breach of fiduciary duty. Prohibits any person convicted of specified crimes from serving as an administrator, fiduciary, counsel, or employee of, or as a consultant to, any Fund established by this Act within five years of any such conviction or release from imprisonment, unless the Board of Parole of the United States determines that such person's service with the Fund would not be contrary to the purposes of this Act. Creates civil causes of action for the benefit of specified plantiffs to enforce the provisions of this Act. Specifies time limits within which civil actions grounded on a breach of fiduciary duty must be brought. Title II: Changes In Retirement Benefits - Sets the salary base period for computation of annuities with respect to participants in the District of Columbia Policemen and Firemen's Retirement Fund hired at least 90 days subsequent to the enactment of this Act at the highest annual rate resulting from averaging such participant's rates of basic salary for any 36 months rather than for any 12 months of consecutive service. Redefines an optional basis for survivors annuities by allowing for cost-of-living adjustments in a retired participants' average pay. Sets forth regulations with respect to voluntary retirement, disability retirement, and separation other than by retirement, and the amount of annuities for each. Authorizes cost-of-living adjustments in annuities payable from the District of Columbia Policemen and Fireman's Retirement Fund. Eliminates the one percent increase added on to cost-of-living increases in the annuities of District of Columbia public School teachers and judges.
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Federal Communications Commission and other agencies shall be encouraged to exercise their full legal authority to insure that the quality and quantity of over-the-air broadcasting service which is now available to the public shall not be reduced or impaired by the operations of pay television. Calls for regulation of pay television in a manner consistent with the establishment and maintenance of over-the-air television broadcast services.
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1976
National Commitment to Energy Independence using Solar and Geothermal Energy Act - Title I: Findings, Policy, Purpose, and Definitions - Declares it the policy of the United States and the purpose of this Act to eliminate reliance on imports of crude oil as an energy source through the implementation of energy conservation programs coupled with construction of solar and geothermal energy generation facilities. Title II: Assistant Administrator for Solar and Geothermal Energy and Conservation - Creates, within the Energy Research and Development Administration, the position of Assistant Administrator for Solar and Geothermal Energy and Conservation. Directs the Assistant Administrator to oversee projects and programs under the Solar Heating and Cooling Demonstration Act of 1974 and the Solar Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1974. Authorizes the Administrator to undertake energy conservation duties in the areas involving reduction of heat use, heat loss, electric energy use, and the reuse of solid wastes. Title III: Test and Evaluation Facilities - Directs the Assistant Administrator to implement various current systems concepts related to solar and geothermal energy. Lists specific number of test facilities as a required part of such program. Directs the Assistant Administrator to establish programs to standardize photovoltaic component costs below specified levels within five years. Requires the establishment of a residential and commercial solar heating and cooling program to expand the use of such technologies within the next five years. Requires that a major portion of the research and development costs for such programs be borne by private industry. Limits the Federal funds expended for such purposes to $100,000,000 or 25 percent of the total funds appropriated under the authority of this Act, whichever is less. Title IV: Commercial Implementation - Establishes the following goals for which additional Federal assistance to private industry shall be available: (1) the production of ten percent of all the energy consumed within the United States through the use of solar and geothermal energy within ten years of the enactment of this Act; and (2) an increase in the percentage of such consumption from solar and geothermal sources to 20 percent by the year 2000. Title V: Report - Directs the Assistant Administrator to submit a detailed plan of implementation within 90 days of the enactment of this Act. Requires annual progress reports listing the amount of Federal funds expended on each program. Directs the Congressional Budget Office to report on direct and indirect costs associated with Federal nuclear and fossil fuels subsidization programs. Directs the Budget Office to submit similar reports on cost incentive programs recommended by the Assistant Administrator to encourage the development of solar and geothermal structures for businesses and residencies. Title VI: Conservation - Directs the Assistant Administrator to implement various energy conservation programs designed to offer tax incentives for energy conservation and to assist in the development of improved energy-saving technologies. Establishes as the ultimate objective of such program a ten percent reduction in national energy consumption by 1985. Title VII: Regulation-Information to Congress - Authorizes the Assistant Administrator to prescribe appropriate rules and regulations to carry out the purposes of this Act. Requires that appropriate committees of Congress be fully and currently informed with respect to activities under this Act. Title VIII: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1985 for: (1) solar-thermal and ocean-thermal electric generation facilities; (2) wind-electric generation facilities; (3) biconversion-methane gas generation facilities; (4) geothermal-electric generation facilities; (5) photovoltaic-electric generation facilities and related activities; (6) the residential and commercial structure solar heating and cooling program and related activities; and (7) the energy conservation program outlined in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1976
Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act - Requires the Chief Justice of the United States to designate seven district court judges, each of whom shall have jurisdiction to hear applications for and grant orders approving electronic surveillance anywhere within the United States. Requires the Chief Justice to designate three Federal judges to comprise a special court of appeals which shall have jurisdiction to hear an appeal by the United States from the denial of any application. Grants the United States a further right to appeal an affirmance of denial to the Supreme Court. Requires each application for any order approving electronic surveillance for foreign intelligence purposes to be approved by the Attorney General and to include: (1) the identity of the officer making the application; (2) the authority conferred on the applicant by the President and the approval of the Attorney General to make the application; (3) the identity of the subject of the surveillance; (4) the fact and circumstances justifying belief that the target of surveillance is a foreign power or an agent of a foreign power; (5) a description of the type of information sought and a certification by one of specified Federal officers that such information is foreign intelligence information that cannot feasibly be obtained by normal investigative techniques; and (6) a statement of the period of time for which the surveillance is required. Directs the judge to enter an ex parte order as requested or as modified approving the electronic surveillance if he finds that the criteria specified have been met. Allows issuance of orders to approve surveillance for 90 days or the period necessary to achieve its purposes, whichever is less. Permits extensions of orders upon application for an extension made in the same manner as required for an original application. Authorizes the Attorney General, upon a reasonable determination that an emergency situation exists, to authorize the emergency employment of electronic surveillance if an appropriate judge is informed by the Attorney General of such authorization at the time it is made and if an application is made as soon as practicable but not more than 24 hours after authorization. Requires, in the absence of a judicial order, that surveillance terminate when the information sought is obtained, when the application for an order is denied, or 24 hours after authorization, whichever is earliest. Allows information acquired from electronic surveillance conducted pursuant to this Act to be used and disclosed only for designated purposes or for the enforcement of the criminal law. Requires when an order to approve the emergency employment of electronic surveillance is not obtained, that the judge serve notice on the individual subject to surveillance of the fact of the application, the period of surveillance, and the fact that information was or was not obtained. Permits the judge to delay or forego this action on a showing of good cause. Requires the Attorney General to submit an annual report to the Administrative Office of the United States Courts and to Congress including: (1) the number of applications made for orders and extensions of orders approving electronic surveillance and the number of such orders and extensions granted, modified, and denied; (2) the periods of time for which orders authorized surveillances and their actual duration; (3) the number of surveillances in place at any time during the preceding year; and (4) the number of surveillances terminated during the preceding year. Declares that nothing contained in this Act shall limit the Constitutional power of the President to order electronic surveillances for specified national security reasons if the facts and circumstances giving rise to such order are beyond the scope of this Act. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 2521-2528)
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1976
Solar Energy Incentive Act - Allows an individual to take a tax credit, under the Internal Revenue Code, in an amount equal to 25 percent of the qualified solar heating and cooling equipment expenditures incurred by the taxpayer with respect to his principal residence to the extent such expenditures do not exceed $8,000, plus that portion of the qualified State or local real property taxes paid or accrued for the taxable year or accrued for the taxable year attributable to such solar heating and cooling expenditures. Authorizes an individual to take a tax deduction for a part of the acquisition costs of any qualified solar heating and cooling equipment for any residence. Limits such deduction to the lesser of ten percent of the acquisition costs or $800 or $400 for the third year of such acquisition.
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1976
Constitutional Amendment - Provides that the House of Representatives shall be composed of Members chosen for a term of four years by the people of the several States. Provides that no Member of the House shall file his candidacy for Senator for a term which is to begin before the expiration of the term of the office held by such Member, unless at least 30 days before such filing such Member shall have resigned from such office.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1976
Establishes the Frederick Law Olmsted Home and Office in Brookline, Massachusetts, as a national historic site. Authorizes to be appropriated sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1976
Directs the President to convene a White House Conference to evaluate the success of compulsory busing to achieve integration. Requires the President to issue a comprehensive report including policy recommendations for alternative positive steps for equalizing educational opportunity and providing excellence in education for all Americans.
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Directs the Secretary of Defense to provide for the burial at the Arlington Memorial Amphitheater, Arlington National Cemetery, of the remains of an unknown American soldier who lost his life in the American Revolutionary War.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1976
Victims of Crime Act - Establishes the Crime Victims Compensation Commission to make annual and supplemental grants to each qualifying State program covering 50 percent or 100 percent of the costs of paying compensation to the victims of specified qualifying crimes. Grants the Commission specified powers, including: (1) the establishment of general policies, guidelines, rules, and regulations which must be followed by State programs; and (2) denial, revision, or agreement to any request for an annual or supplemental grant under this Act. Stipulates that a State program qualifies for grants under this Act if it meets specified criteria, including: (1) compensation for personal injury to individuals who suffer such injuries as the result of qualifying crimes; (2) compensation to the surviving dependents of individuals whose death resulted from qualifying crimes; and (3) the right to a hearing with administrative or judicial review for any aggrieved claimant. Excludes from Federal grants the costs of administrative expenses and the costs of State compensation awards: (1) for pain and suffering; (2) for property loss; (3) to the extent to which the amount of any reward to a victim or a victim's dependents exceeds $50,000; (4) to any claimant who is entitled to receive compensation from any other source up to the amount of such compensation; (5) for lost earnings of more than $200 per week; (6) to a claimant who failed to file a claim within one year of the occurrence of the qualifying crimes; and (7) to any claimant failing to report such crime to law enforcement authorities within 72 hours of its occurrence. Requires the Commission to publish and submit to the House and Senate Judiciary committees an annual report containing specified information on the operation of State victims of crime compensation programs and on the Commission's activities. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums in fiscal years 1977 through 1979 to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1976
Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require the Commissioner of Education to make Federal interest subsidy and administrative cost allowance payments to holders of loans under such Act on behalf of the borrower within 30 days of receipt by the Commissioner of an itemized voucher in such form as the Commissioner shall by regulation prescribe.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1976
Authorizes and requests the President to issue annually a proclamation designating the first week of May of each year as "Clean Air Week," and inviting the Governors and Mayors of State and local governments to issue similar proclamations. Requests the President to consider including in such a proclamation an invitation calling upon the communications media and all organizations and individuals concerned with programs to improve the quality of the atmosphere to participate in "Clean Air Week."
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1976
Authorizes under the Federal Civil Defense Act of 1950 the use of Federal civil defense funds by local civil defense agencies for natural disaster relief. Increases the Federal contribution for travel expenses and per diem allowances for students in civil defense training programs and increases the Federal financial contribution to States for civil defense personnel and administrative expenses. Increases the authorization for appropriations under such Act for travel expenses, for personal equipment for State and local workers,and for personnel and administrative expenses.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1976
Local Public Works Capital Development and Investment Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Economic Development Administration, to make grants to any State or local government for local public works projects, including but not limited to: (1) those public works projects of State and local governments for which Federal financial assistance is authorized under provisions of law other than this Act; and (2) the architectural design, engineering, and related planning of local public works projects. Stipulates that the Federal share of any project for which a grant is made under this Act shall be 100 percent of the cost of such project. Authorizes the Secretary to make an additional grant for the purpose of increasing to 100 percent the Federal contribution to a public works project for which Federal financial assistance is authorized under provisions of law other than this Act. Stipulates that no such grants shall be made for any project which has as its principal purpose the channelization, damming, dredging, or diversion of a natural watercourse, or the enlargement of any canal other than a canal designated as a historic site. Directs the Secretary to prescribe rules, regulations, and procedures necessary to carry out this Act. Lists factors that the Secretary shall consider in accordance with the relative needs of the various sections of the country, with priority consideration to those areas where unemployment exceeds the national average. Stipulates that not less than one-half of one percent nor more than ten percent of all amounts authorized under this title shall be allocated for local public works projects within any one State. Authorizes the appropriation of $2,500,000,000 through fiscal year 1977 in order to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 1 April 1976
Energy Research and Development Free Enterprise Act - Title I: Findings, Definitions, and General Provisions - Declares that it is the policy of the Congress that small business concerns and individual inventors should be provided greater opportunities by the Federal Government in the development of energy resources and technology, with special emphasis on solar energy technology and to expand competition and reduce concentration in the energy industries of the Nation. Amends the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974 and the Federal Nonnuclear Energy Research and Development Act of 1974 to offer increased opportunities in Federal energy development programs to small business concerns and individual inventors. Title II: Energy Program Reorganization - Amends the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974 to establish within the Energy Research and Development Administration five additional Assistant Administrators for: (1) small business concerns and individual inventors; (2) planning and analysis; (3) laboratory and field coordination; (4) administration; and (5) international affairs. Requires that no less than 50 percent of the total amount of funds for solar energy technology programs and no less than 20 percent of the total amount of funds for all areas of energy technology be made available to small business concerns and individual inventors. Limits the awarding of energy program contracts to situations where the financial capabilities of non-Federal entities are inadequate to develop such technology without Federal assistance. Authorizes appropriations of $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1976 and each fiscal year thereafter to the Administrator of the Small Business Administration in order to provide consultation services for the preparation of contract proposals by small businesses and individual inventors. Title III: Encouragement of Competition in Energy Programs - Directs the Administrators of the Energy Research and Development and the Small Business Administrations to provide detailed information to potential participants in energy programs. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to refrain from awarding contracts which will have an adverse impact on industry or market competition. Directs the Attorney General and the Federal Trade Commission to recommend criteria to the Administration upon which to make such a determination. Prohibits the entering into of any energy contract to any person who has an interest in delaying completion of the contract or altering any research findings in the performance of such contract. Requires the Administrator to transmit to the Attorney General a copy of the proposed contract if the profitmaking enterprise has gross assets exceeding $250,000,000. Prohibits the Administrator from awarding a contract to such an enterprise until the Attorney General's opinion is received. Establishes procedures and requirements for the disclosure of information relating to the awarding of contracts by the Administrator and by program participants. Imposes a fine of $20,000, or the amount of the contract, whichever is greater; and/or imprisonment of up to two years for participants who transmit false, fictitious, or fradulent information.
United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1976
Establishes the Potomac National River in Maryland, Viginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire specified lands and interests in lands within the boundaries of such national river. Directs the Secretary to encourage and assist the jurisdictions in which the national river is located to plan, acquire, develop, and manage lands within and adjacent to the national river for recreation, fish and wildlife conservation, historic preservation, or similar purposes. Authorizes the Secretary to make supplemental grants to such jurisdictions for acquisition of lands and interests in lands within 2,000 feet of the banks of the Potomac River. Permits hunting on lands within the national river which are under the jurisdiction of the Secretary. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements with non-Federal public bodies for the operation and management by the Secretary or such public bodies of lands within the national river in accordance with a mutually acceptable management plan. Directs the Secretary to formulate and transmit to appropriate Congressional committees within three years from the date of the enactment of this Act a plan for the development and use of lands within the national river. Includes the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park and the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park as identifiable units of the national river and stipulates that such historical parks shall continue to be administered separately in accordance with their respective enabling acts. Establishes a Potomac National River Advisory Commission to advise and consult with other Federal agencies, State agencies, local governments, and persons on matters relating to recreation, historic preservation, scenic protection, and resource conservation within and in the vicinity of the national river. Directs the Secretary to report to Congress within two years after the date of enactment of this Act recommendations as to extension of the national river from the area established by this Act to the Potomac River's source at Fairfax Stone, West Virginia, and to its mouth at the Chesapeake Bay. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to effectuate the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1976
Designates April 15 of each year as "Holocaust Remembrance Day". Authorizes and requests the President to issue a proclamation each year calling for the observance of such day with appropriate ceremonies.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1976
Amends the National Housing Act to authorize expenditures by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development for repair of major structural defects which create a serious danger to the life and safety of inhabitants of any one-, two-, three-, or four-family dwelling covered by any mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1976
Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to make expenditures to correct serious structural defects in dwellings securing loans guaranteed or insured by the Administrator if the defect is one that existed on the date of issuance of the loan and is one that a proper inspection could reasonably be expected to disclose (presently, the dwellings must have been actually inspected by either the VA or FHA during construction). (Amends 38 U.S.C. 1827(a)).
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1976
Opportunities Industrialization Centers Job Creation and Training Act - States that the purpose of this Act is to provide special authority for the Opportunities Industrialization Centers in order to create and provide job opportunities for specific unemployed persons who were particularly hard hit by the recent economic recession, and to provide opportunities for industry to create additional jobs for the unemployed in rural and urban communities. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to enter into a contract with Opportunities Industrialization Centers, Incorporated (OIC) in order to provide comprehensive employment services and jobs for unemployed persons. Requires each such contract to contain provisions assuring that specific requirements are complied with, including requirements that (1) special consideration in providing jobs will be given to unemployed persons who are most severely disadvantaged in terms of the length of time they have been unemployed; (2) due consideration will be given to persons who have participated in manpower training programs for whom unemployment opportunities would be otherwise available, and (3) the program will to the maximum extent feasible contribute to the elimination of artificial barriers to employment and occupational advancement. Sets forth special conditions to be met prior to providing financial assistance pursuant to a contract entered into under this Act. Requires the programs to contribute, to the maximum extent feasible, to the occupational development or upward mobility of individual participants. Prohibits the Secretary from providing financial assistance unless he determines that: (1) periodic reports will be submitted to him to measure the effectiveness of the program; (2) there will be no discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, political affiliation, or beliefs within the program; and (3) the participants in the program will not be employed in the construction, operation, or maintenance of sectarian religious facilities. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act of $150,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $200,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $300,000,000 for fiscal year 1979, and $350,000,000 for fiscal year 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1976
Creates a nine member House Select Committee on the Fiscal Problems of Cities. Directs the committee to conduct a study to identify the nature and causes of problems afflicting large cities which face severe fiscal imbalance. Provides that consideration shall be given problems which contribute to the financial plight of cities, including: (1) net outmigration of population; (2) decline in employment opportunities; (3) adverse city/suburban relationships; (4) cost of public services; (5) rising crime rates; (6) lack of new investment in housing; and (7) racial, ethnic, and economic segregation. Calls upon the committee to develop a policy regarding the appropriate role of various levels of government in the solution of such problems. Requires the committee to evaluate the consequences of, and coordination among, existing Federal policies and programs which relate to the major problems identified by the committee. Directs the committee to formulate specific recommendations regarding Federal legislation and executive administrative action for modifications of or alternatives to present Federal programs.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Title I: Amends the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 to increase the amount of appropriations authorized under such Act to $300,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $450,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $625,000,000 for fiscal year 1979, and $800,000,000 for each fiscal year thereafter through fiscal year 1989. Revises procedures for the apportionment of land and water conservation fund moneys to States by the Secretary of the Interior. Imposes public participation requirements with respect to the preparation of comprehensive statewide outdoor recreation plans. Authorizes Federal financial assistance for the planning and development of sheltered facilities for swimming pools and ice skating rinks, provided specified conditions are met. Title II: Amends the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 to establish a historic preservation fund in the United States Treasury. Stipulates that $24,400,000 for fiscal year 1977, $75,000,000 annually for fiscal years 1978 and 1979 and $100,000,000 annually for each fiscal year thereafter until fiscal year 1989 be covered into the fund from revenues due and payable to the United States under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act and other Federal Mining laws. Stipulates that such moneys shall remain available until appropriated to carry out the purposes of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Authorizes the appropriation of $175,000 per year for fiscal years 1977,1978, and 1979 for the International Center for the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Amends the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 to deny Members of Congress any increase in their rate of pay under any law passed, or plan or recommendation received, during a Congress unless such increase is to take effect not earlier than the first day of the next Congress. Makes such prohibition retroactive to those laws passed after June 30, 1975, and to plans and recommendations regarding pay transmitted by the President after such date.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Designates April 8, 1976, as "National Food Day". Authorizes and requests the President to issue a proclamation to promote public involvement in order to develop a national food policy guided by the needs of people, both in the United States and abroad.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1976
Energy Conservation Implementation Act - Title I: State Energy Conservation Implementation Program - Directs the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration to prescribe guidelines for the development and preparation of proposed State energy conservation programs. Stipulates that such guidelines be designed to allow States maximum flexibility and discretion in preparing such programs. Requires that States be given an opportunity to participate in the drafting of such guidelines. Authorizes the Administrator to provide Federal financial assistance to States whose proposed energy conservation programs meet specified Federal criteria. Stipulates that such assistance may be in the form of loan guarantees, interest subsidies, or grants. Lists factors to be considered in determining the amount of such assistance. Stipulates that no State shall receive more than 12.5 percent of the national total in each category of financial assistance. Establishes the following limits on financial assistance under this Act: (1) loan guarantees- shall not exceed an aggregate of $10,000,000,000 at any one time; (2) interest subsidies to residential and small business consumers-authorizes an appropriation of not more than $90,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $180,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and $360,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 1979 and 1980; (3) grants to States-$50,000,000 annually for fiscal years 1977 through 1980. Specifies the following criterial for State programs as a pre-condition to receiving Federal financial assistance under this Act: (1) limits the maximum term of loan guarantees or subsidies to 15 years or the anticipated useful life of any permanent facilities, whichever is shorter; (2) requires procedures for energy audits and distribution of resultant information to consumers; (3) requires incentives for the implementation of energy conservation measures by individual owners and tenants; (4) demonstration that such program is designed to achieve maximum energy savings in the shortest possible time; and (5) reasonable assurance that the financial interest of the United States will be protected. Authorizes States to encourage the development of energy conservation cooperatives of residential energy consumers as part of their energy conservation programs. Title II: Energy Conservation Extension Service - Establishes in the Energy Research and Development Administration the Energy Extension Service. Directs the Service to develop and implement a comprehensive program for the identification, development, and demonstration of energy conserving practices, techniques, materials, and equipment for: (1) agricultural, commercial, and small business operations, and (2) new and existing residential, commercial, or agricultural buildings or structures. Requires that such programs include technical assistance, instruction, and practical demonstrations in energy conservation opportunities. Directs the Service to establish energy extension service offices consisting of city offices, county agents, and technical staff assistants in order to accomplish the objectives of this Act. Requires that local extension offices disseminate information, advice, and assistance by means of (1) specific studies and recommendations, (2) demonstration projects, (3) distribution of studies and instructional materials, (4) seminars, and (5) other outreach programs.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1976
National Educational Opportunities Act - Title I: Definition and Guarantee of a Unitary School System and Equal Educational Opportunity - Provides that each State and its local educational agencies shall establish and maintain desegregated, unitary school systems which offer equal educational opportunities to all students, regardless of race, color, or national origin. States that a desegregrated unitary school system shall be presumed to exist unless a State or local educational agency denies equal educational opportunities to an individual on account of race, color, or national origin by specified acts which have the natural, probable, foreseeable, or actual effect of segregating students on the basis of race, color or national origin. Prohibits local educational agencies from denying equal educational opportunity to an individual on account of race, color, or national origin by maintenance of practices or provision of resources in schools in which minority students are concentrated that are less favorable for educational success and advancement than in schools attended primarily by students of any other race, color, or national origin. Gives examples of such denials of equal educational opportunity. Authorizes the Attorney General to bring a civil action in Federal court for equitable relief in any case where he has reasonable cause to believe that the provisions of this Act are being violated. Title II: State Equal Educational Opportunities Plans - Requires each State to prepare and submit to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare for his approval a plan to carry out the purpose of this Act. Requires that such plan shall provide for the establishment of State and local advisory bodies to advise State and local educational agencies on development and participation in such plans. Requires such plans to provide a viable mechanism for States and local educational systems to implement a policy of equal educational opportunities that delineates the fundamental prerequisites for a desegregated, unitary school system. Provides that such State plans shall include specific means for implementing some or all of the following components: (1) a majority transfer plan on both an intradistrict and interdistrict basis; (2) a school district reorganization plan; and (3) an approved, concentrated compensatory education program for basic instructional programs, supportive services, and vocational guidance and for programs having potential for improving the achievement performance of educationally deprived students. Authorizes to be appropriated for carrying out this title not in excess of $200,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $500,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and $500,000,000 for each fiscal year for the next three fiscal years. Provides a formula for allotment of such funds to the States and for allocation among various programs and agencies. States that whenever the Secretary, after reasonable notice and opportunity for a hearing: (1) disapproves such a plan; or (2) finds that no plan has been submitted by a State, that a State plan approved under this Act has been so changed that it no longer complies with the requirements of this Act, that plan administration fails to comply substantially with any such provisions, or that a grantee is in violation of title II of this Act, the Secretary shall notify the grantee that further payments will not be made to the grantee under this title or any other educational assistance program until he is satisfied that there will no longer be any failure to comply. Provides that, until he is so satisfied, the Secretary shall make no further payments under such titles. Provides for review of the Secretary's action in such cases by the United States Court of Appeals for the circuit in which the claimant State is located. Title III: General Provisions and Definitions - Defines the terms used in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1976
Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act - Title I: Statement of Findings and Policy - Declares that most of the nation's coal reserve can only be mined by underground methods. Lists the purposes of this Act, including to establish a nationwide program to prevent the adverse effects to society and the environment from surface coal mining. Title II: Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement - Establishes in the Interior Department the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement with a Director appointed by the President. States that such Office shall administer the programs required by this Act and assist the States in development of State programs for surface coal mining and reclamation. States that the Office shall be considered an independent Federal regulatory body. Title III: State Mining and Mineral Resources Research Institute - Authorizes appropriation to the Secretary of the Interior of sums adequate to provide for each participating State $200,000 for fiscal year 1975, $300,000 for fiscal year 1976, and $400,000 for each fiscal year thereafter for five years, to assist the States in carrying on the work of a competent and qualified mining and mineral resources research institute or center at the school of mines of one public college or university of the State. Requires such monies to be matched dollar- for-dollar by the States. Authorizes appropriations of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, such sum to be increased by $2,000,000 each fiscal year for six years thereafter, for specific projects in mining and mineral research in research institutes. Directs the Secretary to establish a center for cataloging current and projected scientific research in mining and mineral resources. Requires the Secretary to appoint an Advisory Committee on Mining and Mineral Research to advise him on all matters concerning mining and mineral resources research. Title IV: Abandoned Mine Reclamation - Creates the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund in the Treasury. Requires operators of coal mines to pay into the fund quarterly fees of $.35 per ton of coal produced by surface mining and $.15 per ton of coal produced by underground mining, or ten percent of the value of the coal in the mine, whichever is less. Authorizes use of money in the Fund for acquisition and reclamation of abandoned and unreclaimed mined lands and for acquisitions and fillings of voids and sealing of tunnels and entryways in abandoned mines. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to enter into agreements with landowners, including owners of water rights, under which such landowners shall furnish a conservation and development plan and shall effect such plan in return for financial assistance from the Secretary of Agriculture of up to 80 percent of the cost of such a reclamation effort. Encourages States to acquire abandoned and unreclaimed land, and to transfer it to the Secretary for reclamation, and authorizes matching grants for such purpose, up to 90 percent of the land price. Allows resale of reclaimed land by public bidding, and allows local public participation in determining the use of reclaimed land. Title V: Control of the Environmental Impacts of Surface Coal Mining - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to publish, within 180 days of the enactment of this Act, regulations which establish a permanent regulatory procedure and performance standards for surface coal mining and reclamation standards. Requires the Secretary to obtain the concurrence of the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency with respect to regulations concerned with air or water quality standards. Establishes a permit program to require mining operators to comply with environmental protection standards. Allows State control over surface mining permits if certain requirements are met. Authorizes the implementation of a Federal program if States fail to Act. Imposes the following general environmental performance standards on surface mining operations as a condition of the issuance of a permit under this Act: (1) restoration of the land affected to a prior use, consistent with public health and safety; (2) restoration to the original contour of the land and backfilling, grading, and compacting the excess overburden and other waste materials to attain the lowest grade; (3) removal and segregation of topsoil in a separate layer where it is able to support vegetation; (4) minimize disturbances to the hydrologic balance at the minesite and surrounding areas by eliminating or reducing toxic drainage, siltation, and contamination problems; (5) conformity with standards for the design and location of coal mine waste piles; and (6) establishment of a diverse, effective, and permanent vegetation on regraded areas. Establishes additional requirements for steep-slope surface mining operations. Defines the term "steep slope" to include any slope above 20 degrees or lesser slopes as may be defined by the regulatory authority. Permits State laws and regulations that are more stringent than those set forth pursuant to this Act. Requires permit applications to describe the method of mining and equipment proposed to be used, to describe by maps the land to be affected, and to contain a statement of results of test borings or core samplings of the affected land. Stipulates that permits must be accompanied by a mining and reclamation plan which shall include a description of present uses of the land, steps to be taken to prevent environmental damage, and a description of the reclamation activities. Requires the posting of performance bonds and possession of liability insurance by applicants for permits. Requires operators to obtain a permit prior to conducting any coal exploration operations which substantially disturb the natural land surface. Directs the Secretary to promulgate rules and regulations directed at the surface effects of underground mining. Directs and authorizes inspection of surface coal mining and reclamation to determine compliance with this Act and regulations. Provides requirements for recordkeeping and submittal and monitoring by mine operators. Requires surprise inspections by regulatory agencies not less than once a month. Imposes civil penalties for violation of this Act or regulations under it. Establishes procedures for citizen suits and judicial review of actions under this Act. Establishes conditions under which mine operators may request a release of all or part of the performance bond. Requires public notice and hearings upon applications for such releases. Requires States to establish, as a condition of assuming primary regulatory control, a planning process designed to identify lands unsuitable for surface coal mining. Requires designation of lands as unsuitable if it can be shown that reclamation pursuant to the requirements of the Act is not feasible. Authorizes designation of lands as unsuitable where operations mining will: (1) be incompatible with land use plans or programs; (2) affect fragile or historic lands of significant historic, scientific or esthetic value; (3) affect renewable land resources with an impact on long-range food and water supply; and (4) increase a significant hazard to life and property, including the possibility of flood and earthquake damage. Prohibits surface coal mining operation on certain Federal lands, or within 100 feet of a public road or within 300 feet of a building or dwelling, unless the consent of the affected public or private interest is obtained. Requires implementation of a Federal lands program applicable to all surface mining and reclamation operations on Federal land. Requires separate regulations for programs for special bituminous coal surface mines that meet specified criteria, and for anthracite coal surface mines which are regulated by environmental protection standards of the States. Title VI: Designation of Lands Unsuitable for Noncoal Mining - Allows the Secretary to designate Federal lands unsuitable for mining materials other than coal, if they are predominantly urban or suburban in character or if such mining operations would have an adverse impact on lands used primarily for residential and related purposes. Title VII: Administrative and Miscellaneous Provisions - Defines the terms used in this Act. Prohibits discrimination against employees for filing suit under this Act and for testifying in a proceeding under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to make annual grants to the States to assist the States in developing, administering, and enforcing State programs under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to provide technical assistance and training, and assistance in preparing and maintaining a continuing inventory of information on surface coal mining and reclamation projects. Requires the Secretary to submit an annual report to the President and the Congress. Directs the Secretary to contract with the National Academy of Sciences-National Academy of Engineering for a study of surface coal mining conditions in Alaska in order to determine which, if any, of the provisions of this Act should be modified with respect to such operations in Alaska. Directs the Chairman of the Council on Environmental Quality to contract with the National Academy of Sciences-National Academy of Engineering and other groups for a study of the technology for surface and open-pit mining and reclamation for minerals other than coal designed to assist in the development of regulation for such operations. Directs the Secretary to consult with Indian tribes in studying the regulation of surface mining on Indian lands. Requires all surface coal mining operations on Indian lands to comply with requirements at least as stringent as specified provisions in this Act within 30 months from the enactment of this Act. Authorizes the approriation of the following sums to carry out this Act: (1) for various contract authority, $10,000,000 immediately and $10,000,000 for the next two fiscal years; (2) for administrative and other purposes, $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $20,000,000 for fiscal years 1978 and 1979, and $30,000,000 for fiscal years thereafter; and (3) for research and demonstration projects of alternative coal mining technologies, $35,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, and for the next four years.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1976
Franchising Practices Reform Act - Requires a franchisor to notify a franchisee at least 90 days in advance of the franchisor's intention to terminate the franchise, and the franchisor's reasons for terminating. Prohibits a franchisor from cancelling a franchise unless the franchisee has acted in bad faith, or has violated a material requirement of the franchise, or the franchisor is effecting a market area withdrawal. Prohibits a franchisor from failing to review a franchise except for the reasons stated above or the franchisor has a legitimate business reason for failing to renew. Makes any franchisor that has violated the requirements of this Act civilly liable to the aggrieved franchisee.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1976
Equal Opportunity for Displaced Homemakers Act - Requires the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish a multipurpose service program for displaced homemakers, including: (1) job counseling and training services; (2) health education and counseling services; (3) financial management services; (4) educational services; and (5) outreach and information services with respect to Federal employment, education, health, and unemployment assistance programs. Defines a "displaced homemaker" as an individual who: (1) has worked in the home, providing unpaid household services for family members; (2) is not gainfully employed; (3) has had, or would have, difficulty in securing employment; and (4) has been dependent on the income of another family member but is no longer supported by such income, or has been dependent on Federal assistance but is no longer eligible for such assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1976
Establishes in the House of Representatives the Select Committee on Nuclear Proliferation and Nuclear Export Policy. Directs the Committee to conduct a full and complete study of: (1) the threat of nuclear proliferation; (2) the present policies of the United States concerning nuclear proliferation; (3) the decisionmaking process within the executive branch on nuclear export policies; and (4) any related areas which the committee deems necessary to investigate and study to discharge its responsibilities. Directs the committee to report to the House as soon as practicable the results of its investigation and study, together with such recommendations as it deems advisable.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1976
Synthetic Fuels Research and Demonstration Act - Title I: Motor Vehicle Synthetic Fuel Research and Demonstration Project - Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to establish a synthetic fuels project for motor vehicles in accordance with a research and development plan. Prescribes criteria to be followed by the Administrator in: (1) the selection of a synthetic fuel; (2) the selection of a project agency; and (3) the establishment of a research and demonstration plan. Requires that the Administrator submit interim reports to Congress and a final report within three years of the enactment of this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of $10,000,000 through fiscal year 1979 for such project. Title II: Electrical Generation Synthetic Fuel Research and Demonstration Projects - Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to establish a program of Federal assistance to public utilities for the support of synthetic fuels projects for the generation of electricity. Establishes criteria for applicants to be considered for financial assistance. Establishes guidelines for the Administrator in selecting projects from eligible applicants. Stipulates that the amount of funds for any such project shall be based on the difference between the cost of the synthetic fuel and the cost of conventional fuel which would ordinarily be used. Limits payments under this Act to: (1) 5 cents per gallon of synthetic fuel; and (2) $1,000,000 for any single project. Requires the Administrator to submit interim reports to Congress and a final report within three years of the enactment of this Act. Authorizes appropriations of $3,000,000 through fiscal year 1979 for such program.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1976
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow as a tax deduction the amount of any adoption expenses, including social or agency adoption fees, court costs, and attorney's fees, paid by the taxpayer during the taxable year.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1976
Directs the Secretary of the Treasury and other Federal officials to initiate negotiations within the framework of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and the International Monetary Fund with the intent of developing an appropriate code of conduct and specific trading obligations among governments, together with suitable procedures for the settlement of disputes.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Federal Communications Commission and other agencies shall be encouraged to exercise their full legal authority to insure that the quality and quantity of over-the-air broadcasting service which is now available to the public shall not be reduced or impaired by the operations of pay television. Calls for regulation of pay television in a manner consistent with the establishment and maintenance of over-the-air television broadcast services.
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1976
Provides, under the Legislative Reorganization Act, that pay adjustments for Members of Congress may take effect no earlier than the beginning of the Congress next following the Congress in which they are approved.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1976
Administrative Rule Making Reform Act - Requires a Federal agency preparing to hold a rule making session to make a reasonable effort to inform those likely to be affected by the proposed rule making. Requires that if the affected group is large, representatives of such group must be notified. Requires, in addition to present requirements, that the notice of rule making include the projected effective date of the rules, the purpose of the rule making, the text of the proposed rules, and the technical or other studies on which the agency intends to rely in the rule making proceedings. Applies the requirements of this Act to all rule making sessions except (1) those specifically authorized to be kept secret in the interest of national security, and (2) those relating to agency management. Requires public notice and public opportunity for comment of all rule making proceedings under this Act unless the agency finds that the rules to be proposed are emergency rules or are of routine or insignificant impact in which case the rule must be published with reasons for its adoption. Requires Federal agencies to give interested persons at least 45 days to participate in the rule making. Requires the agency to maintain a file of each proceeding to be made available to the courts, Congress, and to the public in connection with review of the rule. Limits the period for public comment to a maximum of 90 days. Requires a copy of all proposed rules to be sent to Congress. States that such rule, other than an emergency rule, shall not become effective if it is disapproved within 90 days by both Houses of Congress, or it is disapproved within 60 days by one House and no action is taken on the disapproval resolution by the other House. Provides that either House of Congress may, by resolution, require any agency to reconsider and resubmit any rule to which this Act applies. Requires that such proposed rule be repromulgated anew in accordance with all the provisions of this Act unless it is reconsidered and resubmitted to Congress within 180 days after the adoption of the resolution requiring such reconsideration. Sets forth procedures for adoption of resolutions to approve, disapprove, or compel reconsideration for both Houses. Requires the Administrative Conference of the United States to study Congressional review of agency rule making under this Act and report the effect of such review on such rule making before July 1, 1982. Authorizes to be appropriated $200,000 to finance such study. Makes this Act effective on the first day of the first session of the Ninety-fifth Congress. Terminates the Congressional review required by this Act at the adjournment of the Ninety-seventh Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1976
Small Business Estate and Gift Tax Reform Act - Revises, under the Internal Revenue Code, the rate of tax imposed on transfers of taxable estates. Increases the present $60,000 exemption from such tax to $80,000 in 1976, $100,000 in 1978, and $120,000 in 1980. Alters possible gift tax exemptions of a decedent's estate in 1980. Provides that in the computation of the value of a taxable estate, where a bequest is made to the surviving spouse, the limitation on the aggregate of deductions is revised from 50 percent to $240,000 plus 50 percent of the excess of the adjusted gross estate. Incorporates in the determination of the value of a decedent's property held as farming property or scenic open property, the consideration of any effective restrictions on its use for other purposes. Increases the gift tax exemption from $30,000 to $60,000. Allows a taxpayer to claim, under conditions prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury or his delegate, an additional exemption which would otherwise be allowed his estate upon his death. Revises the gift tax exemption permitted for gifts to spouses from one half of the transferred property's value to so much of its value as does not exceed $240,000, plus one half of the excess. Extends from 10 to 15 the number of equal installments in which estate taxes on an estate consisting largely of an interest in closely held business may be paid. Permits the Secretary or his delegate, with the taxpayer's consent, to impose a lien on the closely held business assets which constitute the basis for the extension. Allows such lien in lieu of requiring a bond, but treats it as a bond for purposes of the discharge of fiduciary liability. Requires the Secretary or his delegate to study: (1) hardship extensions of the time for payment of estate tax and installments thereof; and (2) extensions of time for payment of estate tax where the estate consists largely of an interest in a closely held business as such extensions affect decisions to continue or dispose of a small or closely held business. Orders a report of such study to be submitted to Congress within 12 months of enactment of these provisions, such report to include findings, conclusions, and recommendations for legislation.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1976
Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to implement a pilot program to make scholarship grants to individuals attending medical schools on the condition that such individuals will serve in a Veterans' Administration facility for a period of time upon completion of professional training. Limits the amount of any scholarship grant to an individual for an academic year to $5,000. Authorizes appropriations to carry out such program of $2,500,000; $3,000,000; and $3,500,000 in fiscal years 1976-1978, respectively. Authorizes necessary appropriations for fiscal year 1979 and succeeding fiscal years.
![Official portrait of Rep. Mazzoli, Romano L. [D-KY-3]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/m000291_200.jpg)