United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1978
Amends the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 to authorize appropriations to carry out the purposes of this Act during fiscal years 1979, 1980, and 1981.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1978
Displaced Homemaker Assistance Act -- Directs the Secretary of Labor, under the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act of 1973, to establish a minimum of 50 Multipurpose Service Centers for displaced homemakers. States that each Center shall provide specified services, including: (1) job counseling; (2) job training and job placement; (3) health education and counseling; (4) financial management; and (5) outreach information with respect to assistance programs. Directs the Secretary to prepare a study of the feasibility of including displaced homemakers in all Federal employment, education, and health programs and in Federal and State unemployment benefit programs.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1978
International Shipping Act - Amends the Shipping Act, 1916, to authorize the use of deferred rebate or dual rate contract systems and to authorize the operation of closed shipping conferences and shippers councils under specified conditions.
United States · United States Congress · 15 December 1977
Declares that it is the policy of the Congress in the interest of public health to phase out Federal assistance which promotes the production of tobacco and the manufacturing and marketing of tobacco products for human consumption. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to study and report to the President and to the appropriate Congressional committees his findings and recommendations regarding the probable economic effects (particularly on family farmers) of the phasing out of specified Federal tobacco assistance programs.
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1977
Public Buildings Water Conservation Act - Amends the Public Buildings Act of 1959 to require the Administrator of General Services: (1) to establish a water conservation program for public buildings; (2) to prescribe minimum water efficiency standards for new public buildings; (3) to require, during building construction or repair, the installation of water supply and removal equipment which meets certain water efficiency standards; (4) to promulgate, after consultation with the Director of the National Bureau of Standards, minimum efficiency standards for each type of water supply and removal equipment; (5) to survey existing public buildings to determine the priority for needed water efficient equipment, and (6) to replace existing water equipment in such buildings. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1977
Amends the Equal Credit Opportunity Act to prohibit discrimination against any applicant for credit on the basis of the geographical location of the applicant's residence.
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1977
Water Conservation in Homes Act - Amends the National Housing Act to provide guaranteed loans for housing improvement including water conservation equipment and systems which are designed to reduce the total water requirements of the structures and are in conformity with specified standards.
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1977
Water Conservation Amendments Act - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to declare it national policy that the Federal Government shall encourage methods to reduce the total flow of sewage and to reduce unnecessary water consumption. Requires each planning agency receiving a grant for the development of a comprehensive water pollution control program to develop a plan which promotes the reduction of unnecessary water consumption and of the total flow of sewage. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to conduct research in cooperation with State and local government agencies in areas in which drought conditions or threat of drought conditions exist. Directs the Administrator to study methods of irrigation which will result in a reduction of the total flow of sewage and of unnecessary water consumption as part of the agricultural pollution control program. Directs the Administrator to study new methods for the installation of devices to reduce unnecessary water consumption and the total flow of sewage in rural areas. Authorizes the Administrator to enter into contracts and make grants for certain research and demonstration projects relating to the reduction of total sewage flow and unnecessary water consumption. Directs the Administrator to encourage waste treatment management resulting in the reduction of total sewage flow or of unnecessary water consumption, and to reduce grants for treatment works construction where the applicant has failed to demonstrate that methods for such reduction have been studied and adopted when feasible. Makes construction grants for treatment works contingent upon the fulfillment of certain requirements relating to the reduction of unnecessary water consumption. Requires any organization responsible for areawide waste treatment management planning processes to include in such plans a process to identify sources of unnecessary water consumption that contribute to water quality problems and to set forth methods for reduction of such consumption. Permits any State to identify any area in such State where there is a drought, threat of drought, or other condition occurring as a result of unnecessary water consumption, and to request the Administrator to assist in reducing such consumption. Amends the Small Business Act to authorize the making of certain loans for the purpose of installing devices to reduce unnecessary water consumption by small businesses.
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1977
Water Supply Act - Declares development of new water supplies to be in the national interest. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to develop a comprehensive water supply program, to survey water supply capacities, to propose methods of increasing water supplies, and to prepare drought contingency plans. Directs the Administrator of General Services to survey: (1) all federally controlled water storage projects to determine unnecessary water storage capacity; and (2) all federally controlled lands to determine any unnecessary area on which water storage facilities could be constructed. Directs the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to construct water storage projects specifically authorized after enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1977
Consumer Product Water Efficiency Act - Prohibits any person from distributing in commerce any covered product unless it meets either the improvement targets or final water efficiency standards established by the Federal Trade Commission in accordance with this Act. Includes under the requirements of this Act any product which is partially or wholly dependent on the consumption or flow of water for its operation or which is designed to consume or to depend wholly or in part on the consumption or flow of water, and which is distributed in commerce to a significant extent, for personal use or consumption by an individual. Includes household appliances, bathroom fixtures, water softeners and water recirculation system within the meaning of the term "covered product. Prohibits the distribution in interstate commerce of covered products unless the product bears a label stating ratio of water consumed by the product to the amount of water to be consumed by the product upon achievement of the final water efficiency standards. Directs the Commission to prescribe water efficiency improvement targets for each type of covered product. Authorizes the Commission, upon the introduction of any new product, to set water efficiency improvement targets, which shall become the minimum mandatory water efficiency standard for such product. Requires the Commission to direct the National Bureau of Standards to develop tests to determine: (1) the actual water efficiency level of the covered product; (2) reasonable water efficiency improvement targets for each covered product; and (3) minimum mandatory water efficiency standards for each covered product. Requires manufacturers of covered products for which any regulation is prescribed to: (1) notify the Commission of any model manufactured to which such regulation applies; (2) conduct any test required in the regulation; (3) provide a label which meets the prescribed regulations; and (4) supply a reasonable number of such covered products to the Commission for testing. Stipulates that any covered product which is offered for importation into the customs territory of the United States and which does not comply with the requirements of this Act shall be refused admission. Allows the Secretary of the Treasury to authorize the importation of any covered product under terms and conditions set by the Secretary. Imposes civil penalties for violations of this Act. Prescribes procedures for civil actions against manufacturers, distributors, or retailers alleged to be in violation of this Act and against Federal agencies which have allegedly failed to perform nondiscretionary duties under this Act. Makes it an unfair or deceptive act or practice within the meaning of the Federal Trade Commission Act to violate the distribution provisions of this Act. Defines the terms used in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1977
Federal Water Authorities Reorganization Act - Title I: The Office of Water Management - Establishes within the Executive branch an Office of Water Management to which is transferred specified functions of the Secretary of the Interior, the Water Resources Council, and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency with respect to water resources. Abolishes the Water Resources Council. Requires the Office to develop a comprehensive water policy and to coordinate Federal water authorities. Title II: The Independent Water Project Review Board - Establishes within the Executive Branch the Independent Water Project Review Board to establish a system for the evaluation of water resource construction projects proposed by Federal agencies and to coordinate such construction projects.
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1977
Water Efficiency Labeling Act - Prohibits the distribution in commerce of any product covered by this Act unless it is labeled with respect to its water consumption rates, under regulations promulgated by the Federal Trade Commission. Prohibits the advertisement of such product which is not consistent with tests prescribed by this Act. Requires the Commission to direct the Director of the National Bureau of Standards to develop water consumption tests for covered products. Directs the Commission to prescribe regulations for the conduct of such tests. Permits the Commission to exempt a product from such tests if water consumption comparisons between different models of such product are not feasible. Requires manufacturers of covered products to conduct water consumption tests and to comply with specified reporting and testing requirements. Requires the Commission to direct the Director of the National Bureau of Standards (1) to determine the minimum amount of water required to operate any type of covered product and (2) to publish these findings in the Federal Register. Requires covered products which are imported to comply with labeling and advertising requirements of this Act. Directs the Commission to conduct a public information program with respect to the use of water consumption labeling. Imposes a civil fine for knowing violation of the requirements of this Act. Establishes a civil cause of action against violators of this Act or any Federal agency allegedly failing to carry out its nondiscretionary responsibilities under this Act. Declares a violation of this Act to be an unfair or deceptive trade practice under the Federal Trade Commission Act. Authorizes appropriations necessary to carry out this Act. Defines terms used in this Act, including "covered products" which means any article which is designed to be dependent on the consumption or flow of water.
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1977
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to establish the Tallgrass Prairie National Park and the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve in the State of Kansas.
United States · United States Congress · 31 October 1977
Forbids the Secretaries of the Army, Air Force, and Navy from prohibiting the assignment of any female personnel to any duty for which such a member has volunteered and is otherwise qualified.
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1977
Civil Rights Act - Prohibits any person engaged in commerce, any person conducting a program which receives Federal assistance, a Federal contractor or subcontractor, or holder of an interest in Federal property from discriminating with respect to employment, housing, credit, or participation in benefits which make such prohibitions applicable, on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religious affiliation or belief, age, handicap, political affiliation or belief, marital status, parental status, or lack of citizenship. Exempts from such prohibitions denial of medical treatment where such denial does not occur because of characteristics of individuals of the above listed status groups. Exempts from such prohibitions (1) employment near Indian reservations in which preference is given to Indians; (2) employment classification or referral by an employer or labor union when the above listed characteristics constitute a bona fide occupational qualification (3) employment by educational institutions with respect to religion under specified circumstances; (4) employment discrimination based on religion when an employer would suffer undue hardship in accommodating religious practices of the individual; (5) age discrimination required by law in order to benefit children or to achieve statutory objectives, or the comply with a bona fide seniority system or employee benefit plan; (6) handicapped discrimination when the handicapped individual could not perform essential job functions without undue hardship to the employer or when the individual does not meet essential eligibility requirements for services, programs, or activities; (7) political discrimination in employment when such individual is elected or appointed to policy making levels of political offices; (8) age discrimination in housing resulting from designation of a certain area for adults; and (9) certain employers with fewer than 15 employees. Authorizes the Attorney General to investigate and enforce complaints of such discrimination. Limits the ability of an individual to institute civil suit based upon such discrimination. Imposes a civil fine for knowing violation of this Act. Imposes a civil fine or imprisonment for willful, repetitions violations of this Act. Repeals nondiscrimination provisions of specified Federal statutes. Supersedes Executive Order 11063 and specified portions of Executive Order 11246. Declares that nondiscrimination and equal opportunity requirements shall not be required under specified statutes and Federal programs. Directs the Attorney General to prescribe regulations for enforcement of this Act. Transfers to the Attorney General the assets of any agency of which all powers, functions, and duties are terminated by this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 October 1977
International Emergency Food Reserve Act - Authorizes the President: (1) to enter into negotiations with other nations to develop an international system of food reserves for humanitarian food relief needs; and (2) to establish and maintain an International Emergency Food Reserve as a contribution of the United States toward the development of such a system. Requires for such Reserve minimum stocks of two million tons, allowing an increase up to six million tons pursuant to an international agreement.
United States · United States Congress · 27 October 1977
Directs the President of the United States, the Secretary of Agriculture, the Foreign Service, and the Department of State to formulate and implement a plan for the expansion of sales of American agricultural commodities abroad, including increased food-for-peace (Public Law 480) sales as well as private international transfers of food.
United States · United States Congress · 26 October 1977
Directs the Secretary of Defense to place a plaque and a permanent display of medals, ribbons, and tributes of the Vietnam era on the crypt at the National Cemetery at Arlington, Virginia, reserved for an unknown American serviceman who lost his life in Southeast Asia. Directs the Secretary to perform the duties required by this Act even though the remains of such serviceman have not yet been placed in the crypt.
United States · United States Congress · 25 October 1977
Consumer Representation and Reorganization Act - Establishes as an independent agency within the executive branch an Office of Consumer Representation to be headed by an Administrator appointed by the President by and with the consent of the Senate. Requires the Administrator to transmit to the Congress and the President by February 1 of each year a report on the activities and accomplishments of the Office during the preceding calendar year including a summary of consumer complaints received and actions taken thereon. States the functions of the Office, including to: (1) represent the interests of consumers before Federal agencies and courts to the extent authorized by this Act; (2) encourage and support research, studies, and testing leading to a better understanding of consumer products and improved products, services and consumer information; (3) submit recommendations annually to the Congress and the President on measures to improve the operation of the Federal Government in the protection and promotion of the interests of consumers; (4) cooperate with State and local governments and private enterprise in the promotion and protection of the interests of consumers; and (5) publish and distribute material to inform consumers and Congress of matters of interest to the consumer. Authorizes the Administrator, whenever the result of any Federal agency proceeding or activity may substantially affect an interest of consumers, to intervene as a party or otherwise participate in representing the interests of consumers. Directs the Agency to receive, evaluate, develop, act on, and transmit complaints to the appropriate Federal or non-Federal entities concerning actions or practices which may be detrimental to the interests of consumers. Requires the Agency to maintain a public document room containing an up-to-date listing of all signed consumer complaints of any significance arranged in meaningful and useful categories together with annotations of Agency actions. Requires the Office to gather and disseminate to the public information concerning: (1) the functions and duties of the Office; (2) consumer products and services; (3) problems encountered by consumers; and (4) notices of Federal hearings, proposed and final rules, and other pertinent activities of Federal agencies. Directs the Office to encourage and support, through both public and private entities, the development and application of information on consumer products and services. Authorizes Federal agencies to perform, at the request of the Administrator, tests regarding products, services, or any matter affecting the interests of consumers. Authorizes each Federal agency, upon the written request of the Administrator, to furnish or allow access to all documents, papers, and records in its possession which the Administrator deems necessary for the performance of his functions. Requires every Federal agency, in considering any action which may substantially affect the interest of consumers, to notify the Agency of such action. Transfers to the Office of Consumer Representation the functions, funds, records, and property of other Federal offices the duties of which now fall within what this Act designates as the jurisdiction of the Office of Consumer Representation. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to report to Congress functions performed by Federal programs which overlap, duplicate, or conflict with the functions performed by the office. Terminates the Office of Consumer Representation five years after the effective date of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 October 1977
Consumer Representation and Reorganization Act - Establishes as an independent agency within the executive branch an Office of Consumer Representation to be headed by an Administrator appointed by the President by and with the consent of the Senate. Requires the Administrator to transmit to the Congress and the President by February 1 of each year a report on the activities and accomplishments of the Office during the preceding calendar year including a summary of consumer complaints received and actions taken thereon. States the functions of the Office, including to: (1) represent the interests of consumers before Federal agencies and courts to the extent authorized by this Act; (2) encourage and support research, studies, and testing leading to a better understanding of consumer products and improved products, services and consumer information; (3) submit recommendations annually to the Congress and the President on measures to improve the operation of the Federal Government in the protection and promotion of the interests of consumers; (4) cooperate with State and local governments and private enterprise in the promotion and protection of the interests of consumers; and (5) publish and distribute material to inform consumers and Congress of matters of interest to the consumer. Authorizes the Administrator, whenever the result of any Federal agency proceeding or activity may substantially affect an interest of consumers, to intervene as a party or otherwise participate in representing the interests of consumers. Directs the Agency to receive, evaluate, develop, act on, and transmit complaints to the appropriate Federal or non-Federal entities concerning actions or practices which may be detrimental to the interests of consumers. Requires the Agency to maintain a public document room containing an up-to-date listing of all signed consumer complaints of any significance arranged in meaningful and useful categories together with annotations of Agency actions. Requires the Office to gather and disseminate to the public information concerning: (1) the functions and duties of the Office; (2) consumer products and services; (3) problems encountered by consumers; and (4) notices of Federal hearings, proposed and final rules, and other pertinent activities of Federal agencies. Directs the Office to encourage and support, through both public and private entities, the development and application of information on consumer products and services. Authorizes Federal agencies to perform, at the request of the Administrator, tests regarding products, services, or any matter affecting the interests of consumers. Authorizes each Federal agency, upon the written request of the Administrator, to furnish or allow access to all documents, papers, and records in its possession which the Administrator deems necessary for the performance of his functions. Requires every Federal agency, in considering any action which may substantially affect the interest of consumers, to notify the Agency of such action. Transfers to the Office of Consumer Representation the functions, funds, records, and property of other Federal offices the duties of which now fall within what this Act designates as the jurisdiction of the Office of Consumer Representation. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to report to Congress functions performed by Federal programs which overlap, duplicate, or conflict with the functions performed by the office. Terminates the Office of Consumer Representation five years after the effective date of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 October 1977
Amends the National Trails System Act of 1968 to re-establish the advisory council on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, to limit such council's existence to ten years, and to reduce the term of council members from five to two years. Increases the limitations on acreage which may be acquired for rights-of-way and by condemnation proceedings along the Appalachian Trail without the consent of the owner from 25 acres in any one mile to at least 25 acres but not more than 125 acres within any one mile. Increases from $5,000,000 to $35,000,000 the authorization of appropriations for acquisition of lands for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.
United States · United States Congress · 17 October 1977
Water Resources Management and Pricing Reform Act - Requires the Secretary of the Interior to establish in each region where the United States provides water for agricultural purposes: (1) a base volume of water necessary to grow suitable crops; and (2) a base rate per acre foot for water delivered. Prescribes rates for volumes of water used in excess of the base volume. Requires all water service contracts to provide for a recalculation of water delivery cost and a modification of price at least once every two years. Requires Congressional approval of water service contracts involving water in excess of a specified volume.
United States · United States Congress · 5 October 1977
Bikeway Transportation Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make grants for 80 percent of the cost to States and municipalities of bikeway construction projects in urban areas or in places connecting such areas with national, State, or local parks, seashores or recreational areas. Requires such bikeway projects to be in accordance with a continuing comprehensive transportation planning process carried on cooperatively by States and local communities and in accordance with construction standards established by the Secretary.
United States · United States Congress · 29 September 1977
Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to (1) make loans to certain cities and counties for the establishment and initial operating costs of clinics for the spaying and neutering of dogs and cats, and (2) make grants for the establishment of courses to train paraprofessionals in the anaesthetising and spaying and neutering of dogs and cats. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 September 1977
Declares that the President should establish a Commission on Domestic and International Hunger and Malnutrition which should: (1) collect and generate information and resources on food, hunger, malnutrition and related concerns; (2) assess current programs affecting domestic and international hunger and malnutrition; (3) analyze and report its findings and recommendations to the President, the Congress, and the public; and (4) assist the President and the Congress in implementing its recommendations.
United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1977
Amends the Federal Meat Inspection Act to permit States to impose inspection, marking, labeling, packaging, and ingredient requirements that are more stringent than Federal standards.
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1977
Bikeway Transportation Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make grants for 80 percent of the cost to States and municipalities of bikeway construction projects in urbanized areas or connecting such areas with national, State, or local parks, seashores or recreational areas. Requires such bikeway projects to be in accordance with a continuing comprehensive transportation planning process carried on cooperatively by States and local communities and in accordance with construction standards established by the Secretary.
United States · United States Congress · 8 September 1977
Federal Advisory Committee Act Amendments--Expands the applicability of the Federal Advisory Committee Act to advisory bodies created by specified agencies. Requires the President to maintain a list of all Federal advisory body members and their business affiliations. Requires that charters and reports filed by such a body be made available to the public. Requires notice of advisory body meetings, including closed meetings, to be published in the Federal Register. Permits any person to challenge the appropriateness of closing any meeting. Requires such bodies to report the receipt and disposition of any nonappropriated funds. Provides for judicial and administrative enforcement of the Act.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1977
Product Liability Insurance Tax Equity Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to qualify trusts established for the payment of product liability claims as tax exempt organizations. Allows taxpayers a business income tax deduction for contributions to such trusts only to the extent they exceed the reasonable costs of product liability insurance for the deducting taxpayer.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1977
Prohibits denial of employment (except by an employer with no more than ten employees) of any person because of any obligation as a member of a Reserve component of the Armed Forces.
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1977
Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1920, to extend the coastwise laws of the United States with respect to the transportation of crude oil, residential fuel oil, and refined petroleum products, to the Virgin Islands.
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1977
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish the Channel Islands and Santa Monica Mountains National Park and Seashore. Places various administrative responsibilities with the Secretary. Abolishes the Channel Islands National Monument. Directs the Secretary, in cooperation with the State of California, the Secretary of Transportation, and local agencies to plan a coordinated public and private transportation system to and within the Park. Directs the Secretary to make and submit a study as to the design, construction, and operation of a public scenic transportation system with the Park area and to implement the construction and operation of such system unless either House of Congress passes a resolution against such construction. Establishes the Channel Islands and Santa Monica Mountains National Park and Seashore Advisory Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1977
Asbestos Health Hazards Compensation Act - Title I: General Provisions - Sets forth the findings and declares the purpose of this Act. States that there is a significant number of persons who suffer disability or death from employment-related diseases caused by the inhalation or ingestion of asbestos and/or the inhalation of asbestos coupled with the inhalation of cigarette tobacco smoke. States that it is the purpose of this Act through the exercise of the power of Congress to regulate commerce among the several States and with foreign nations to provide a schedule of equitable, comprehensive, and exclusive benefits to affected persons who become disabled as a result of an asbestos-related disease and to the dependents of affected persons who die from such diseases. Title II: Claims for Benefits Accruing on or before December 31, 1979 - Directs the Secretary of Labor to make payments of benefits in respect of disability of any affected person due to asbestos-related disease and in respect of the death of any affected person whose death was due to asbestos-related disease. Requires the Secretary by regulation to prescribe standards for determining whether an affected person is disabled due to asbestos-related disease; or whether the death of an affected person was due to such disease. Sets forth the manner in which benefits are to be paid pursuant to the provisions of this Act. Title III: Claims for Benefits Accruing after December 31, 1979 - States that the responsibility for funding the payment of benefits for all claims accruing or arising on or after January 1, 1980, shall be borne equally by the "responsible parties," as such term is defined in this Act, and the United States. Establishes within the Department of Labor the Asbestos Health Hazards Compensation Fund. States that all valid claims for benefits under this Title shall be satisfied from such Fund. Establishes a Board of Directors for the Fund and sets forth the duties of such Board. Provides for the development and maintenance of the Fund by means of equal contributions from the responsible parties and the United States. Vests in the Secretary the responsibility, with the advice and concurrence of the Director of the Internal Revenue Services, of assuring that such contributions are collected from the responsible parties. Prohibits an employer from discharging or discriminating against any asbestos-afflicted employee because such person has filed a claim for benefits under this Act. Establishes procedures for the relief of persons discharged or discriminated against because of a claim for benefits pursuant to this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1977
Congressional Pay Raise Deferral Act - Amends the Federal Salary Act of 1967 and the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 to provide that any adjustment in the rate of pay for Members of Congress proposed during any Congress shall not take effect earlier than the beginning of the next Congress. States that any such pay adjustment proposed in an even-numbered year of any Congress after the congressional elections and before the beginning of the following Congress, shall be considered as occurring during the first session of the following Congress for the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1977
Civil Rights Amendments Act - Amends the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to prohibit discrimination based of affectional or sexual preference in: (1) public accommodations; (2) public facilities; (3) public education; (4) federally assisted opportunities; (5) equal employment opportunities; (6) housing; and (7) educational programs receiving Federal assistance. Prohibits quotas, or determinations of discrimination based upon statistics.
United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow certain individuals to compute the amount of the deduction for retirement savings on the basis of the earned income of their spouses.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1977
Amends the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to designate a specified segment of the Delaware River as a component of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1977
Mandatory Automotive Fuel Economy Act - Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to establish mandatory minimum motor vehicle fuel economy standards for passenger automobiles of 19 miles per gallon for model year 1982, 21 miles per gallon for model year 1983, 23 miles per gallon for model year 1984, and 25 miles per gallon for model year 1985. Empowers the limited States district courts to prohibit introduction of passenger automobiles in interstate commerce which do not meet such minimum fuel economy standards.
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1977
Antarctic Conservation Act - Declares it the purpose of this Act to implement the Antarctic Treaty, and the Agreed Measures for the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora. Stipulates that the taking of any native animal, collection of any native plant, introduction of any non-indigenous plant, entrance with certain restricted areas, or discharge of oil or hazardous substances into adjacent waters and ice shelves shall be unlawful in Antarctica. Sets forth import-export restrictions on animals and plants taken in violation of this Act. Authorizes the Director of the National Science Foundation to issue permits for any act in Antarctica otherwise prohibited by this Act. Requires the Director, in consultation with the Secretary of State and other Federal officials, to promulgate such regulations as are necessary to implement this Act. Requires all persons participating in expeditions proceeding to Antarctica from the United States to notify the Secretary of State of the purpose and itinerary of such expedition. Requires the Director to notify such persons of any risks to the safety of persons and property in Antarctica which might occur during the period of the expedition. Sets for civil and criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Authorizes such appropriations as necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 1977
Declares that service during World War I by any female citizen of the United States as a member of a telephone operating unit of the Army Signal Corps shall be considered active duty in the Army for purposes of all laws administered by the Veterans' Administration.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1977
Directs that any alien who is a national of Chile and is not in the United States be issued a nonimmigrant visa and be admitted to the United States as a nonimmigrant if the consular officer involved determines that such alien: (1) is being persecuted or is in danger of persecution in Chile on account of his political opinions; (2) is not otherwise excludable from the United States; and (3) has applied for such admission during the one year period following the enactment of this Act. States that admission under this Act shall be for a period of two years during which the aliens shall be allowed to accept employment. Directs the Attorney General to examine the case of the alien before the expiration of the two-year period and to grant permanent resident status to such eligible alien. Directs that any alien who: (1) is a national of Chile; (2) is in the United States on the date of enactment of this Act; and (3) would be persecuted or be in danger of persecution in Chile on account of his political opinions, be placed in the custody of the Immigration and Naturalization Service. Requires that such alien be inspected and examined for admission into the United States according to the applicable provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Regards such resident aliens, as lawfully if found to be admissible after such examination, admitted to the United States for permanent residence as of the date of their arrival. Allows the spouse, child, or parents of a national of Chile who has been admitted to the United States pursuant to this Act, to be issued a nonimmigrant visa, admitted to the United States as a nonimmigrant, and treated as other aliens issued nonimmigrant visas under this Act. Declares that aliens who acquire permanent residence status under this Act shall not be charged against the quota of immigrants allotted to Chile under the Immigration and Nationality Act. Directs the Attorney General to inform any alien who is a national of Chile or the spouse, child, or parent of a national of Chile of the treatment which may be applied for under this Act before such alien is excluded from admission into or deported from the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1977
Declares it the sense of the Congress that the United States should work within the third United Nations Conference on the Law of the Sea toward establishment of a single international organization to insure the conservation of whales and other cetaceans on a global basis. Declares it the sense of the Congress that in order to achieve whale conservation as soon as possible, a service of bilateral and multilateral initiatives with nations having an interest in whales should be undertaken immediately by the Department of State.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1977
Consumer Advocate Act - Establishes within the executive branch an independent agency to be known as the Agency for Consumer Advocacy, to be headed by an Advocate appointed by the President, by and with the consent of the Senate. Requires the Advocate to transmit to the Congress and the President by February 1 of each year a report on the activities of the Agency, including a summary of consumer complaints received and actions taken thereon and an efficiency evaluation of selected major consumer programs of each Federal agency. States the functions of the Agency, including: (1) the representation of the interests of consumers before Federal agencies and courts; (2) the encouragement and support of research, studies, and testing leading to a better understanding of consumer products and improved products, services, and consumer information; (3) the submission of recommendations annually to Congress and the President on measures to improve the operation of the Federal Government in the protection and promotion of the interests of consumers; (4) cooperation with State and local governments and private enterprise in the promotion and protection of the interests of consumers; and (5) publication and distribution of material to inform consumers and Congress of matters of interest to the consumer. Authorizes the Advocate, whenever he determines that the result of any Federal agency proceeding or activity may substantially affect an interest of consumers, to intervene as a party or otherwise participate in representing the interests of consumers. Authorizes the Advocate to intervene as a party in or institute judicial review of such agency action. Directs the Agency to act on and transmit complaints to the appropriate Federal or non-Federal entities concerning actions or practices which may be detrimental to the interests of consumers. Requires the Agency to maintain a public document room of signed consumer complaints which the Agency has received, together with annotations of actions taken. Requires the Agency to develop and gather from Federal and non-Federal sources, and disseminate to the public information concerning: (1) the functions and duties of the Agency; (2) consumer products and services; (3) problems encountered by consumers; and (4) notices of Federal hearings, proposed and final rules, and other pertinent activities of Federal agencies. Directs the Agency to encourage and support the development and application of information on consumer products and services. Authorizes Federal agencies to perform, at the request of the Advocate, tests regarding products, services, or any matter affecting the interests of consumers. Authorizes each Federal agency, upon the written request of the Advocate, to furnish or allow access to all documents, papers, and records in its possession which the Advocate deems necessary for the performances of his functions. Requires every Federal agency, in considering any action which may substantially affect the interests of consumers, to notify the Agency of such action. Directs the President to submit to the Congress and the Comptroller General a plan for the transfer to the Agency of those consumer-related advocacy programs of Federal activities which can be performed better by the Advocate. Terminates the provisions of this Act on September 30, 1982. Directs the President to submit a report, 12 months prior to the termination date, to the Congress which shall contain a recommendation that the authority of this Act be extended or allowed to lapse.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1977
New Natural Gas Deregulation Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to directly regulate sales prices of new natural gas except for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices for onshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the lesser of: (1) the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands; or (2) a ceiling rate established by any State for intrastate sale and consumption. Stipulates that prices paid for natural gas in transactions between a natural gas company and its affiliates shall not exceed prices paid in comparable sales by persons not affiliated with any natural gas company. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make an annual independent estimate of proved and potential natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the natural gas industry. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within certain high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Stipulates that the provisions of the Natural Gas Act shall extend to synthetic natural gas. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards. Directs the Commission to impose a user charge on sales of natural gas for use as boiler fuel. Establishes procedures for the establishment and periodic revision of national ceiling prices for the sale of old natural gas in interstate commerce.
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1977
Requires that whoever uses or carries a firearm during the commission of a Federal felony, or whoever is convicted by a State court of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year and used or carried a firearm transported in, or affecting, interstate or foreign commerce during the commission of such crime shall, in addition to the punishment provided for the commission of such crime, be sentenced to a term of imprisonment of not less than five nor more than ten years. Requires in the case of a second or subsequent conviction the imposition of a term of imprisonment of not less than ten years, or to life imprisonment. Stipulates that the execution or imposition of any term of imprisonment under this Act (1) may not be suspended, (2) may not run concurrently; and (3) may not include probation.
United States · United States Congress · 9 May 1977
Consumer Advocate Act - Establishes an independent agency within the executive branch the Agency for Consumer Advocacy, to be headed by an Advocate appointed by the President, by and with the consent of the Senate. Requires the Advocate to transmit to the Congress and the President by February 1 of each year a report on the activities of the Agency, including a summary of consumer complaints received and actions taken thereon and an efficiency evaluation of selected major consumer programs of each Federal agency. States the functions of the Agency, including to: (1) represent the interests of consumers before Federal agencies and courts; (2) encourage and support research, studies, and testing leading to a better understanding of consumer products and improved products, services, and consumer information; (3) submit recommendations annually to Congress and the President on measures to improve the operation of the Federal Government in the protection and promotion of the interests of consumers; (4) cooperate with State and local governments and private enterprise in the promotion and protection of the interests of consumers; and (5) publish and distribute material to inform consumers and Congress of matters of interest to the consumer. Authorizes the Advocate, whenever he determines that the result of any Federal agency proceeding or activity may substantially affect an interest of consumers, to intervene as a party or otherwise participate in representing the interests of consumers. Directs the Agency to act on and transmit complaints to the appropriate Federal or non-Federal entities concerning actions or practices which may be detrimental to the interests of consumers. Requires the Agency to maintain a public document room of signed consumer complaints which the Agency has received, together with annotations of actions taken. Requires the Agency to develop, gather from Federal and non-Federal sources, and disseminate to the public information concerning: (1) the functions and duties of the Agency; (2) consumer products and services; (3) problems encountered by consumers; and (4) notices of Federal hearings, proposed and final rules, and other pertinent activities of Federal agencies. Directs the Agency to encourage and support the development and application of information on consumer products and services. Authorizes Federal agencies to perform, at the request of the Advocate, tests regarding products, services, or any matter affecting the interests of consumers. Authorizes each Federal agency, upon the written request of the Advocate, to furnish or allow access to all documents, papers, and records in its possession which the Advocate deems necessary for the performances of his functions. Requires every Federal agency, in considering any action which may substantially affect the interests of consumers, to notify the Agency of such action. Directs the President to submit to the Congress and the Comptroller General a plan for the transfer to the Agency of those consumer-related advocacy programs of Federal activities which can be performed better by the Advocate. Terminates the provisions of this Act on September 30, 1982. Directs the President to submit a report, 12 months prior to the termination date, to the Congress which shall contain a recommendation that the authority of this Act be extended or allowed to lapse.