United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1973
Permits persons who are aged, blind, or disabled and receiving assistance under title XVI of the Social Security Act (Aid and Medical Assistance to the Aged, Blind, and Disabled) to participate in specified food stamp and surplus commodities programs. (Repeals Sec. 411 of Pub. 92-603)
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1973
Allows a tax deduction under the Internal Revenue Code of not more than $750 for ordinary and necessary expenses paid during the taxable year for the repair or improvement of property used by the taxpayer as his principal residence. Permits any person who is the owner of rental housing and who rehabilitates or restores such housing to deduct the cost of such restoration, with respect to the amortization of the adjusted basis of such housing as so restored, based on a period of 60 months. Entitles any person who acquires rehabilitated or restored rental housing from a taxpayer who elected the amortization deduction and who did not discontinue the amortization deduction, to a deduction with respect to the adjusted basis of such facility based on the remaining amount of the 60 month period taken by the person who rehabilitated the house. Provides procedures for the election and termination of the amortization deduction and defines the terms used in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1973
Extends the authorizations through fiscal year 1974 for the following programs under the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965: (1) grants for public works and development facilities; (2) public works and development facility loans; (3) technical assistance, research and information related to public works and development facilities; (4) financial assistance for projects in economic development districts; and (5) supplemental funds for Federal grants-in-aid programs for economic development regions. Provides that no area designated as a redevelopment area for purposes of the Act shall have such designation terminated or modified before June 1, 1974, unless the qualified local governing body of the county specifically requests the such action.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1973
Extends for three years (until July 1, 1975) the provisions under the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, according full Federal payment of relocation and related costs for victims of Hurricane Agnes and other major disasters occuring between January 1, 1971, and July 1, 1973. (Amends 42 U.S.C. 4527)
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1973
Makes inapplicable to the aged, blind and disabled the existing provision of the Social Security Act limiting to 10 percent the portion of the total amounts paid to a State as grants for social services which may be paid with respect to individuals who are not actually recipients of or applicants for aid or assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 21 February 1973
Provides for the repeal of the Postal Reorganization Act and reenacts the former postal service provisions of title 39, United States Code. Reestablishes the former Post Office Department as an executive department of the Federal Government.
United States · United States Congress · 21 February 1973
Provides monthly insurance benefits for qualified dependent brothers and sisters of insured individuals under the Old-Age, Survivors' and Disability Insurance Benefits provisions of the Social Security Act. Prescribes that every brother or sister of an individual entitled to old age or disability insurance benefits, or of an individual who dies a fully and currently insured individual, shall be entitled to a brother's or sister's insurance benefit if such brother or sister: (1) has not attained the age of sixty-two; (2) has filed an application for brother's or sister's insurance benefits and was married at the time such application was filed; (3) was receiving at least one-half of his support, as determined in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, from a brother or sister meeting specified requirements under this Act; and (4) is not entitled to old-age or disability insurance benefits or is entitled to such benefits which are less than he or she would be entitled to under this Act. Establishes provisions for the termination of benefits afforded under this Act. Stipulates that the brother's or sister's insurance benefits for each month shall be equal to: (1) one-half of the primary insurance amount of the insured individual if such individual is living at the close of such month; or (2) 82 1/2 percent of the primary insurance amount of the insured individual if such individual has died in or prior to such month.
United States · United States Congress · 8 February 1973
National Legal Services Corporation Act - Declares that Congress should create a private, nonprofit corporation to encourage the availability of legal services and legal institutions to all citizens of the United States, free from extraneous interference and control. Establishes, under the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, a National Legal Services Corporation, subject to the corporate laws of the District of Columbia, which shall not be an agency or establishment of the Federal Government. Establishes an incorporating trusteeship composed of: (a) the President and President-elect of the American Bar Association; (b) the Presidents of the National Legal Aid and Defenders Association; (c) the President of the American Association of Law schools; (d) the President of the American Trial Lawyers Association; and (e) the President of the National Bar Association. Directs the trustees to, within sixty days after enactment, establish an eleven member Clients Advisory Council from among persons recommended by the Boards of Directors of existing Legal Services Programs and who are representative of the client community. Directs the trustees, additionally, to establish a Project Attorneys Advisory Council to assist in carrying out the purposes of this Act. Directs the Clients and Project Attorneys Advisory Council to select three representatives to serve on the Corporation's Board of Directors. Establishes a nineteen-member Board of Directors. Enumerates the method of appointment of the Directors and their terms of office. Authorizes the Board to establish a Clients Advisory Council and a Project Attorneys Advisory Council subsequent to the original Councils constituted by this Act. Provides that each Council shall be composed of eleven-members whose duty it shall be to advise the President on, respectively, the needs of the members of the client community and on general policy relating to the furnishing of legal services to that community. Prescribes the activities and powers of the Corporation, includes among those functions an authorization to: (1) provide financial assistance to programs furnishing legal services to the client community; (2) carry out programs, including research, training, technical assistance, and law school clinical assistance, to improve the provision of services to the client community; (3) increase opportunity for legal education for individuals who are economically disadvantaged or members of minority groups; (4) coordinate activities in various parts of the country through information collection and dissemination; (5) assist and coordinate all Federal programs for the provision of legal services to the client community by reviewing and making recommendations upon grants and contracts concerning legal services and proposed legislative or executive action; (6) assure that attorneys paid in whole or in part by funds from the Corporation owe the same duty to clients and enjoy the same protection from interference as if the attorney was directly employed by the client; (7) establish policies which assure the professional quality of the attorneys and adherence to the Canons of Ethics; and (8) establish eligibility standards for clients with first priority on those whose means are least adequate to obtain private legal services. Prohibits the Corporation from making contributions to or supporting any political party or candidate for public office. Assures full access to Corporation records pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act. Authorizes an annual audit by the General Accounting Office and requires the Comptroller General to make a report to Congress on any such audit. Prohibits Federal control over the Corporation or its employees. Provides for the orderly continuation of the existing Legal Services Program. Reserves and makes available to the Legal Services Corporation amounts, appropriated to the Office of Economic Opportunity for carrying out the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, not less than $80 million for fiscal year 1974, and $80 million for fiscal year 1975.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1973
Requires the Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations to become effective not later than July 1, 1974, requiring the placarding of vehilces transporting hazardous materials by land in interstate and foreign commerce. Requires such placarding so that law-enforcement and firefighting personnel of communities, and carriers and shippers, may identify the type of hazardous material being transported, the degree of hazard involved, and any particular procedure which should be followed or avoided in dealing with emergency situations arising in connection with the transportation of such hazardous material.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1973
Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to make grants to local fire departments to pay up to 90 percent of the cost of purchasing heat-protective fire fighting suits and breathing apparatus. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as are necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1973
National Fire Education and Training Act - Establishes, as a nonprofit and nongovernmental Instrument, a National Academy of Fire Prevention and Control. Provides that the board of directors of the Academy shall be reasonably representative of the various regions of the country, of the various segments of the community including private industry and labor, of all levels of government, of consumer interests, and of the various types of experience which are appropriate to the functions and responsibilities of the Academy. Provides that the functions of the Academy shall be to: (1) recommend actions which can be taken by Federal, State, and local government, and by private individuals and organizations to improve and strengthen fire protection, fire prevention, and fire suppression; (2) promote and encourage eligible individuals to pursue careers as administrators of fire service organizations at all levels; (3) develop a curriculum and carry out programs of instructional assistance and special workshops, seminars, conferences, and other such instructional devices that are necessary for the purpose of introduction and dissemination of information gained from investigation, research, and development concerning the areas of fire protection, fire prevention, and fire suppression; (4) develop fire service extension programs to encourage and assist States, counties, and local communities to provide continuous training and operational programs in firefighting techniques and procedures concerning the utilization of firefighting equipment, fire suppression and other areas related to firefighting in general; (5) promote and assist universities, community colleges, and other institutions of learning, in planning, developing, strengthening, improving, and carrying out programs and projects concerning fire administration; (6) assist States, counties, and local communities in the development of training programs for firemen; (7) gather data and disseminate information to States, counties, and local communities with respect to firefighting equipment, firefighting techniques, fire services administration, and other areas related to firefighting and to establish and maintain educational programs for the purpose of informing the public of fire hazards and fire safety techniques, and to encourage avoidance of such hazards and use of such techniques; and (8) establish a voluntary, uniform national testing program for the purpose of enabling States, counties, and local communities to evaluate the skills level of their firefighting and fire administrations. Authorizes the Academy to accept contracts and grants from Federal, State, and local governmental agencies and other entitles, and to accept grants and donations from private organizations, institutions, and individuals, and to establish fees and other charges for services provided by the Academy. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Academy such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1973
Provides that the provisions of the Flammable Fabrics Act shall extend to construction materials used in the interiors of homes, offices, and other places of assembly or accommodation. Authorizes the establishment of toxicity standards by the Secretary of Commerce. (Amends 15 U.S.C. 1191)
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1973
Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to provide grants to local fire departments to cover one-half of the cost of the purchase of advanced firefighting equipment. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as are necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1973
Extends for three years the authority of the Secretary of Commerce to carry out fire research and safety programs. Authorizes appropriations totalling $125,000,000 for such programs for fiscal years 1974-1976.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1973
Authorizes and directs the Secretary of Commerce to make grants to States, counties, and local communities to pay up to one-half of the total costs of training programs for firemen. Provides that a State, county, or local community program shall be considered approved if: (1) it is a program to train either volunteer or professional firemen in fire fighting techniques; (2) it is carried out under the auspices of a duly elected governmental body or an incorporated body; (3) the curriculum of the program is provided or approved by the National Academy of Fire Protection and Control; and (4) it is subject to such other terms and conditions as the Secretary finds necessary or appropriate. Authorizes the appropriation of necessary funds to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1973
National Fire Data and Information Clearinghouse Act - Establishes a national clearinghouse within the National Bureau of Standards to be known as the National Fire Data and Information Clearinghouse to collect information and data relating to: (1) incidents of fires in the United States and their causes, locations and resultant deaths, injuries and property loss; (2) technological research and development with respect to fire suppression and prevention; and (3) hazardous substances. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to publish annually a catalogue of information and data stored in the Clearinghouse. Provides that copies shall be made available to interested persons and the general public. Authorizes the Secretary to prepare abstracts, digests, bibliographies, indexes, microfilms, and other reproductions of stored information and data and to make such items available to State and local goverments, industry and business, Federal agencies, and other interested persons. Directs the Secretary to establish and maintain within the clearinghouse an emergency information center to provide fire service organizations with information at any time. Directs the Secretary to obtain a nationwide telephone number for such purposes. Authorizes the Secretary to prescribe regulations to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1973
Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to make grants to accredited institutions of higher education to pay for up to one-half of the costs of fire science programs. Authorizes necessary appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1973
Act for Freedom of Emigration in East-West Trade - States that after October 15, 1972, products from any nonmarket economy country shall not be eligible to receive most-favored-nation treatment, such country shall not participate in any program of the Government of the United States which extends credits or credit guarantees or investment guarantees, directly or indirectly, and the President of the United States shall not conclude any commercial agreement with any such country during the period beginning with the date on which the President determines that such country: (1) denies its citizens the right or opportunity to emigrate; (2) imposes more than a nominal tax on emigration or on the visas or other documents required for emigration, for any purpose or cause whatsoever; or (3) imposes more than a nominal tax, levy, fine, fee, or other charge on any citizen as a consequence of the desire of such citizen to emigrate to the country of his choice. Provides that, before any of the aforementioned commercial agreements are entered into with any foreign country, the President shall submit to the Congress a report indicating that such country is not in violation of any of the requirements of the preceding paragraph.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1973
Economic Disaster Area Assistance Act - Declares that the purpose of the Act is to authorize the President to provide a direct program of Federal assistance to individuals, and to State and local government, in order to alleviate the wasteful economic disruption and loss resulting from regional economic disasters. Revises the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965. Establishes within the Department of Commerce an Office of Aid to Economic Disaster Areas, to be headed by a Director who shall be appointed by the President to serve at his pleasure, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Makes it the duty and function of the Office and the Director: (1) to carry out the purposes of this Act; (2) to assist and advise the President on methods, policies, and programs designed to reduce unemployment and to stimulate the economies of economic disaster areas; (3) to train and have available a professional staff of Federal coordinating officers for assignment to areas designated as economic disaster areas; (4) to review and appraise the various Federal assistance programs for the purpose of determining the extent to which such programs and activities do or can contribute to reducing regional unemployment and stimulating regional economies; and (5) to make such studies, reports, and recommendations as the President may request. Authorizes to be appropriated for the administration of the Office not to exceed $2,500,00 for each fiscal year. Authorizes the President, on the request of the Governor of a State, to designate as an economic disaster area an area or community without regard to political or geographical boundaries, if due to the loss, removal, curtailing, or closing of a major source or sources of employment: (1) the average unemployment in the area for at least three consecutive months is 150 percent of the national average for the preceding calendar year; (2) the current unemployment rate in the area is in excess of the national average for the prior month and has increased by at least 100 percent within the past twelve months; or (3) there is a current unemployment rate in the area of six percent or more and there are such other critical economic conditions as the President determines warrant assistance. Requires the assignment of a Federal coordinating officer to coordinate the administration of Federal programs in any major disaster area. Permits the President to reprogram up to fifteen percent of any federally appropriated funds scheduled for expenditure in an economic disaster area into other programs which are better able to relieve economic distress, reduce unemployment, and respond to the condition presented in that area. Requires reports to Congress on such reporgrammed funds. Authorizes the President to require waiver of conditions which impede assistance under Federal grant-in-aid programs to economic disaster areas. Establishes a separate fund in the Treasury of the United States to be known as the Federal economic recovery fund. Authorizes to be appropriated to the economic recovery fund $1,250,000,000 and such funds as are necessary in subsequent years to maintain the fund at a level of $1,250,000,000 to be used by the President for the purposes set forth herein. Requires the Director of the Office, together with the heads of other Federal agencies, to review existing Federal grant-in-aid, loan and loan guarantee programs, and prepare a report identifying those programs eligible for assistance from the economic recovery fund. Provides that assistance may include: (1) loans to businesses and individuals to enable them to meet business and residential mortgage payments; (2) unrestricted grants to State and local governments to implement local initiatives and projects designed to relieve unemployment and stimulate the economy; and (3) relocation assistance for the unemployed. Directs that an economic disaster area will remain eligible for Federal assistance for at least one year, after which time the Director may review the local economy and recommend continuation of assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1973
Schoolbus Safety Act - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish standards which require schoolbuses be equipped with seat backs of sufficient height and design to prevent, to the extent possible, any injury to each seated passenger and the driver. Makes standards applicable to buses manufactured after June 30, 1972. Authorizes the Attorney General to commence a civil action in the United States district courts to obtain a temporary or permanent injunction restraining any person from violating the Act. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make grants to nay State or political subdivision thereof or to any school system to pay all or part of the cost of complying with the Act. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the Act. (Amends 15 U.S.C. 1392, 1395)
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1973
Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to carry out, through the Agricultural Research Service of the Department of Agriculture, pilot field research programs for the control of agriculture and forest pests by integrated biological-cultural methods. Directs the Secretary to reimburse farmers and ranchers for any losses sustained by them as a result of research under this Act being conducted on their land, crops, or livestock. Authorizes appropriations of $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1973, and such sums as necessary over the next 5 fiscal years, to carry out this Act. Authorizes like sums for the National Science Foundation to expand its research on integrated biological-cultural principles and techniques to control agricultural and forest pests.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1973
Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, acting through the Director of the National Institute of Mental Health, to contract with any qualified public, private, or nonprofit agency, institution, organization, or any qualified individual for the purpose of discovering, developing, testing, evaluating, or manufacturing a drug, chemical compound, or other substance, or instrument, or device which can be used safely and effectively to treat, prevent, or cure heroin addiction, or aid in the treatment or prevention of, or cure for, heroin addiction. Authorizes to be appropriated not to exceed $50,000,000 to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1973
Provides that the Secretary of Transportation, under the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, shall establish appropriate Federal motor vehicle safety standards for schoolbuses and schoolbus equipment. Provides that the Secretary shall procure experimental, prototype, and other schoolbuses for research and testing of safety standards. Requires the manufacturers or distributors of schoolbuses to certify that each such schoolbus was individually inspected and test driven for the purpose of determining its conformity to all applicable Federal motor vehicle safety standards.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1973
Entitles educational benefits to veterans of World War II and the Korean conflict who received such education or training for for a period less than that which he was entitled to. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 1651-52, 1661(a))
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1973
Provides, under the Federal Trade Commission Act, that exclusive territorial arrangements in any trademark licensing contract or agreement for the manufacture, distribution and sale of a trademarked food product shall not be deemed unlawful, provided: (1) that such product is in free and open competition with products of the same general class manufactured, distributed, and sold by others; (2) the licensee is in free and open competition with vendors of other products of the same general class; and (3) the licensor retains control over the nature and quality of such product in accordance with the provisions of the Trademark Act. (Amends 15 U.S.C. 41)
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1973
Small Communities Planning, Development, and Training Act - Title I: Community Development Bank - Creates an independent agency known as the Community Development Bank with a board of directors of 14 persons, one of whom shall be the President of the bank. Provides that the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, shall appoint the President of the bank and the directors, no more than three of whom shall be officers or employees of the United States and at least seven of whom shall be identified with or representatives of State or local government. Provides that the president of the bank shall serve at the pleasure of the President. Authorizes the appropriation of $1,000,000 to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to pay the initial organizing and operating expenses of the bank. Authorizes the bank to make commitments to purchase, and to purchase, service, or sell on terms and conditions determined by the bank, any obligation of a State or local government which is not exempt from Federal taxation. Makes similar provision for the purchase of evidences of indebtedness making loans to any private nonprofit organization or association representing a community under applicable State or local law. Permits purchases or loans to be made only for the purpose of financing capital expenditures. Provides that priority shall be given to small communities. Limits obligations or loans to 40 year maturities bearing interest at a rate not less than 2/3 of the current average yield or outstanding obligations of the bank for the month preceding the date on which the loan or purchase is made. Authorizes the bank to issue obligations totaling $5,000,000,000 initially with an additional $5,000,000,000 on July 1, 1973, and another $5,000,000,000 on July 1, 1974. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to purchase obligations of the bank by utilizing proceeds of the sale of securities under the Second Liberty Bank Act. Provides that receipts and disbursements of the banks shall be exempt from any annual expenditure and net lending limitations imposed on the budget. Provides for annual reports from the President to the Congress on program and administrative activities of the bank. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make payments to the bank to cover the difference between interest paid and interest received on bank obligations. Authorizes the appropriation of necessary funds for this purpose. Sets forth the powers of the bank including the power to sue or be sued and the power to issue bylaws rules and regulations and to adopt a corporate seal. Authorizes the bank to provide technical assistance to State and local governments in preparing and implementing comprehensive development projects and programs. Permits the charging of fees for such services. Provides for an audit of the bank by the General Accounting Office. Provides that the real and tangible personal property of the bank shall be subject to ad valorem taxes and that the principal and interest of all obligations of the bank shall be taxed to the same extent as the obligations of private corporations. Makes the bank otherwise tax exempt. Makes the obligations of the bank lawful investments which may be accepted as security and exempts such obligations from the laws administered by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Title II: Public Facility Loan Program Amendments - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, as an alternative to existing programs of assistance, to guarantee the bonds and other obligations of political subdivisions or instrumentalities of the States which are not exempt from Federal taxation. Permits annual grants equal to 40 percent of the annual interest on such obligations. Pledges the full faith and credit of the United States to the payment of such guarantees. Authorizes the Secretary to take such steps as he considers reasonable to assure that obligations guaranteed under this section will: (1) be issued to investors approved by, or meeting requirements prescribed by, the Secretary, or if an offering to the public is contemplated, be underwritten upon terms and conditions approved by the Secretary; (2) bear interest at a rate satisfactory to the Secretary; (3) contain or be subject to repayment, maturity, and other provisions satisfactory to the Secretary; and (4) contain or be subject to provisions with respect to the protection of the security interests of the United States, including any provisions deemed appropriate by the Secretary relating to subrogation, liens, and releases of liens, payment of taxes, cost certification procedures, escrow or trusteeship requirements or other matters. Authorizes the Secretary to establish a separate revolving fund to provide for: (A) the timely payment of any liabilities incurred as the result of guarantees or grants; (B) the payment of obligations issued to the Secretary of the Treasury; and (C) any other program expenditures under this section, including administrative and nonadministrative expenses. Provides that such revolving fund shall be comprised of: (A) receipts from fees and charges; (B) recoveries under security, subrogation, and other rights; (C) any other receipts obtained in connection with guarantees made under this section; (D) proceeds of the obligations issued to the Secretary of the Treasury; and (E) such sums as are authorized to be appropriated. Authorizes the Secretary to issue obligations to the Secretary of the Treasury, who is authorized to purchase such obligations, for the purpose of carrying out the above functions. Limits outstanding principal obligations to $200,000,000. Title III: Community Development Block Grants - Makes it the purpose of the title to further the development of a national growth policy by consolidating a number of complex and overlapping programs of financial assistance to communities of varying sizes and needs into a single, consistent system of Federal aid which: (1) is funded in advance on a regular basis upon which communities can rely in their planning; (2) can provide assistance on an annual basis with maximum certainty and efficiency and minimum delay; (3) encourages community development activities which are consistent with comprehensive local and areawide development planning; and (4) furthers the achievement of the national housing goal of a decent home and a suitable living environment for every American family. Authorizes the Secretary to make annual grants to units of general local government to help finance approved Community Development Programs. Limits such grants to 90 percent of the cost of the program. Sets forth the requirements for eligibility for such grants. Provides that a Community Development Program assisted under this title may include: (1) the acquisition of real property (including air rights, water rights, and other interests therein) which is: (A) blighted, deteriorated, deteriorating, undeveloped, or inappropriately developed from the standpoint of sound community development and growth; (B) necessary for the preservation or restoration of historic sites, the beautification of land, the conservation of open spaces, natural resources, and scenic areas, the provision of recreational opportunities, or the guidance of development; (C) to be used for the provision of public works, facilities, and improvements eligible for assistance under this title; or (D) to be used for other public purposes; (2) the acquisition, construction, reconstruction, or installation of public works, facilities, and site or other improvements-including water and sewer facilities, neighborhood facilities, historic properties, utilities, streets, street lights, foundations and platforms for air right sites, pedestrian malls and walkways, parks, and playgrounds; (3) code enforcement in deteriorated or deteriorating areas in which such enforcement, together with those public improvements to be provided, may be expected to arrest the decline of the area; (4) clearance, demolition, removal, and rehabilitation of buildings and improvements (including financing of the rehabilitation of privately owned properties); (5) payments to housing owners for losses of rental income incurred in holding for temporary periods housing units to be utilized for the relocations of individuals and families displaced by program activities; (6) disposition (through sale, lease, donation, or otherwise) of any real property acquired pursuant to this title or its retention for public purposes; (7) provision of health, social, and similar services where the Secretary deems it necessary to properly support other approved community development activities; and (8) such other projects or activities assisted under a Federal grant-in-aid program as the Secretary approves as part of a community development program. Authorizes the Secretary to make grant agreements for metropolitan areas in amounts aggregating not more than $7,500,000,000. Authorizes the appropriation of $2,000,000,000 prior to July 1, 1973, to liquidate the obligations so incurred. Increases this amount to $4,500,000,000 prior to July 1, 1974 and to $7,500,000,000 thereafter. Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1973, 1974, and 1975 for grants to States and units of general local government outside metropolitan areas. Provides that distributions to metropolitan areas shall be based on a formula of population, poverty, and overcrowding. Provides that distributions to cities within each metropolitan area shall be based on the same formula. Provides that in making distributions to States and local governments in nonmetropolitan areas the Secretary shall consider plans and ideas for community development programs as well as such factors as population, amount of poverty, overcrowding, and housing deficiencies and other social and fiscal conditions. Title IV: National Community Affairs Institute - Directs the Secretary to establish a National Community Affair Institute which shall have as its purpose the development and revitalization of small communities. Provides that the Institute shall be headed by a board of directors which shall be chaired by the Librarian of Congress. Title V: Fellowships for Small Community Planning and Development - Authorizes the Secretary to provide fellowships for graduate training of professional technicians and specialists in the field of small community planning and development.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1973
Provides that recipients of aid or assistance under the various Federal-State public assistance and medicaid programs, under the Social Security Act, recipients of assistance under the veterans' pension and compensation programs, recipients of assistance under the Federal Food Stamp program, or any other Federal or federally assisted program will not have the amount of such aid or assistance reduced because of increases in monthly social security benefits.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1973
Hobby Protection Act - States that the manufacture in the United States for introduction into commerce of any hobby item: (1) which is a reproduction of a political button, poster, sticker, literature, or any advertisement used in any political cause, and (2) which is not plainly marked with the calendar year in which manufactured is unlawful, and shall be an unfair or deceptive act or practice in commerce under the Federal Trade Commission Act. Requires any coin or other numismatic item to be marked "representation," and to bear the date of manufacture. Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission to prevent any violation of the above provisions. Provides that on request of any citizen of the United States who receives through the mails unsolicited, for approval, hobby items from any person, the U.S. Postal Service shall not deliver any mail from such person making such request.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1973
Homemaking Services for the Elderly Act - Specifies that at least one-third of the Federal funds made available for consumer and homemaking education programs under the Vocational Educational Act of 1963 shall be used for special programs for the elderly. (Adds 20 U.S.C. 1341(d)(2))
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1973
Provides that the fiscal year of the United States shall coincide with the calendar year, and makes provisions for the orderly transition by all Federal Government and District of Columbia agencies to the use of the new fiscal year.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1973
Authorizes each Member of the House of Representatives and the Resident Commissioner from Puerto Rico and the Delegates from the District of Columbia, Guam, and the Virgin Islands to hire for two weeks, during the period May 1 to May 31, inclusive, each year, two additional employees to be known as "senior citizen interns" who will serve as such within the District of Columbia. Provides that no person shall be paid compensation as a senior citizen intern who does not have on file with the Clerk of the House of Representatives, at all times during the period of employment, a certificate that such intern is sixty-five years of age or older and a resident of the district which the employing Member or Commissioner or Delegate represents.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1973
Includes amounts spent for the use of communications media for purposes of opposing a candidate for Federal elective office within the campaign expenditure limitations of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971. Provides that no person or broadcasting station licensee may make any charge for use of any newspaper, station use, or outdoor advertising facility for the purpose of opposing a candidate for Federal elective office, unless another legally qualified candidate certifies in writing to such person or licensee that he authorizes such use and that the payment of such charge will not violate any expenditure limitation applicable to such other candidate. (Amends Pub. Law 92-225)
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1973
Small Communities Planning, Development, and Training Act - Title I: Community Development Bank - Creates an independent agency known as the Community Development Bank with a board of directors of 14 persons, one of whom shall be the President of the bank. Provides that the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, shall appoint the President of the bank and the directors, no more than three of whom shall be officers or employees of the United States and at least seven of whom shall be identified with or representatives of State or local government. Provides that the president of the bank shall serve at the pleasure of the President. Authorizes the appropriation of $1,000,000 to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to pay the initial organizing and operating expenses of the bank. Authorizes the bank to make commitments to purchase, and to purchase, service, or sell on terms and conditions determined by the bank, any obligation of a State or local government which is not exempt from Federal taxation. Makes similar provision for the purchase of evidences of indebtedness making loans to any private nonprofit organization or association representing a community under applicable State or local law. Permits purchases or loans to be made only for the purpose of financing capital expenditures. Provides that priority shall be given to small communities. Limits obligations or loans to 40 year maturities bearing interest at a rate not less than 2/3 of the current average yield or outstanding obligations of the bank for the month preceding the date on which the loan or purchase is made. Authorizes the bank to issue obligations totaling $5,000,000,000 initially with an additional $5,000,000,000 on July 1, 1973, and another $5,000,000,000 on July 1, 1974. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to purchase obligations of the bank by utilizing proceeds of the sale of securities under the Second Liberty Bank Act. Provides that receipts and disbursements of the banks shall be exempt from any annual expenditure and net lending limitations imposed on the budget. Provides for annual reports from the President to the Congress on program and administrative activities of the bank. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make payments to the bank to cover the difference between interest paid and interest received on bank obligations. Authorizes the appropriation of necessary funds for this purpose. Sets forth the powers of the bank including the power to sue or be sued and the power to issue bylaws rules and regulations and to adopt a corporate seal. Authorizes the bank to provide technical assistance to State and local governments in preparing and implementing comprehensive development projects and programs. Permits the charging of fees for such services. Provides for an audit of the bank by the General Accounting Office. Provides that the real and tangible personal property of the bank shall be subject to ad valorem taxes and that the principal and interest of all obligations of the bank shall be taxed to the same extent as the obligations of private corporations. Makes the bank otherwise tax exempt. Makes the obligations of the bank lawful investments which may be accepted as security and exempts such obligations from the laws administered by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Title II: Public Facility Loan Program Amendments - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, as an alternative to existing programs of assistance, to guarantee the bonds and other obligations of political subdivisions or instrumentalities of the States which are not exempt from Federal taxation. Permits annual grants equal to 40 percent of the annual interest on such obligations. Pledges the full faith and credit of the United States to the payment of such guarantees. Authorizes the Secretary to take such steps as he considers reasonable to assure that obligations guaranteed under this section will: (1) be issued to investors approved by, or meeting requirements prescribed by, the Secretary, or if an offering to the public is contemplated, be underwritten upon terms and conditions approved by the Secretary; (2) bear interest at a rate satisfactory to the Secretary; (3) contain or be subject to repayment, maturity, and other provisions satisfactory to the Secretary; and (4) contain or be subject to provisions with respect to the protection of the security interests of the United States, including any provisions deemed appropriate by the Secretary relating to subrogation, liens, and releases of liens, payment of taxes, cost certification procedures, escrow or trusteeship requirements or other matters. Authorizes the Secretary to establish a separate revolving fund to provide for: (A) the timely payment of any liabilities incurred as the result of guarantees or grants; (B) the payment of obligations issued to the Secretary of the Treasury; and (C) any other program expenditures under this section, including administrative and nonadministrative expenses. Provides that such revolving fund shall be comprised of: (A) receipts from fees and charges; (B) recoveries under security, subrogation, and other rights; (C) any other receipts obtained in connection with guarantees made under this section; (D) proceeds of the obligations issued to the Secretary of the Treasury; and (E) such sums as are authorized to be appropriated. Authorizes the Secretary to issue obligations to the Secretary of the Treasury, who is authorized to purchase such obligations, for the purpose of carrying out the above functions. Limits outstanding principal obligations to $200,000,000. Title III: Community Development Block Grants - Makes it the purpose of the title to further the development of a national growth policy by consolidating a number of complex and overlapping programs of financial assistance to communities of varying sizes and needs into a single, consistent system of Federal aid which: (1) is funded in advance on a regular basis upon which communities can rely in their planning; (2) can provide assistance on an annual basis with maximum certainty and efficiency and minimum delay; (3) encourages community development activities which are consistent with comprehensive local and areawide development planning; and (4) furthers the achievement of the national housing goal of a decent home and a suitable living environment for every American family. Authorizes the Secretary to make annual grants to units of general local government to help finance approved Community Development Programs. Limits such grants to 90 percent of the cost of the program. Sets forth the requirements for eligibility for such grants. Provides that a Community Development Program assisted under this title may include: (1) the acquisition of real property (including air rights, water rights, and other interests therein) which is: (A) blighted, deteriorated, deteriorating, undeveloped, or inappropriately developed from the standpoint of sound community development and growth; (B) necessary for the preservation or restoration of historic sites, the beautification of land, the conservation of open spaces, natural resources, and scenic areas, the provision of recreational opportunities, or the guidance of development; (C) to be used for the provision of public works, facilities, and improvements eligible for assistance under this title; or (D) to be used for other public purposes; (2) the acquisition, construction, reconstruction, or installation of public works, facilities, and site or other improvements-including water and sewer facilities, neighborhood facilities, historic properties, utilities, streets, street lights, foundations and platforms for air right sites, pedestrian malls and walkways, parks, and playgrounds; (3) code enforcement in deteriorated or deteriorating areas in which such enforcement, together with those public improvements to be provided, may be expected to arrest the decline of the area; (4) clearance, demolition, removal, and rehabilitation of buildings and improvements (including financing of the rehabilitation of privately owned properties); (5) payments to housing owners for losses of rental income incurred in holding for temporary periods housing units to be utilized for the relocations of individuals and families displaced by program activities; (6) disposition (through sale, lease, donation, or otherwise) of any real property acquired pursuant to this title or its retention for public purposes; (7) provision of health, social, and similar services where the Secretary deems it necessary to properly support other approved community development activities; and (8) such other projects or activities assisted under a Federal grant-in-aid program as the Secretary approves as part of a community development program. Authorizes the Secretary to make grant agreements for metropolitan areas in amounts aggregating not more than $7,500,000,000. Authorizes the appropriation of $2,000,000,000 prior to July 1, 1973, to liquidate the obligations so incurred. Increases this amount to $4,500,000,000 prior to July 1, 1974 and to $7,500,000,000 thereafter. Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1973, 1974, and 1975 for grants to States and units of general local government outside metropolitan areas. Provides that distributions to metropolitan areas shall be based on a formula of population, poverty, and overcrowding. Provides that distributions to cities within each metropolitan area shall be based on the same formula. Provides that in making distributions to States and local governments in nonmetropolitan areas the Secretary shall consider plans and ideas for community development programs as well as such factors as population, amount of poverty, overcrowding, and housing deficiencies and other social and fiscal conditions. Title IV: National Community Affairs Institute - Directs the Secretary to establish a National Community Affair Institute which shall have as its purpose the development and revitalization of small communities. Provides that the Institute shall be headed by a board of directors which shall be chaired by the Librarian of Congress. Title V: Fellowships for Small Community Planning and Development - Authorizes the Secretary to provide fellowships for graduate training of professional technicians and specialists in the field of small community planning and development.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1973
Provides, under title XVIII (Medicare) and title II (Old-Age, Survivors' and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act, that qualified drugs requiring a physicians prescription or certification shall be included among the items and services covered under the hospital insurance program for the aged at a specified amount of payment. Establishes, within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, a Formulary Committee to compile and publish a Formulary listing the drugs deemed qualified for benefits under this Act, together with maximum allowable costs and additional information concerning such drugs. Makes provisions for selecting drugs for the Formulary.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1973
Increases payments in specified amounts to veterans under non-service-connected disability pension plans. Increases pension payments to widows of veterans who at the time of death were receiving compensation or retirement pay for a service-connected disability. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 521(b),(c); 541(b),(c))
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1973
Authorizes the Commissioner of Education to make grants to State education agencies to enable them to develop and carry out program to provide, through the use of students to institutions of higher education, tutoring and instructional assistance, under the supervision of a qualified teacher, for homebound handicapped children who, though able to benefit from preschool, elementary, or secondary education, are prevented by their handicaps from attending school. Requires local educational institutions that apply for funds under this program to give special consideration to veterans qualified for vocational financial need. Requires that the compensation for participating college students shall be between the Federal minimum wage set by the Commissioner and the maximum wage set by the Commissioner. Requires that the aim of such program shall be to integrate the handicapped into society, and to avoid the development of a segregated, permanent system of educcation for the handicapped. Provides that the Commissioner shall make grants under this Act to State educational agencies on the merits of their proporsal to him which shall be submitted on such application forms and under such guidelines as he shall prescribe. Authorizes $55,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, and necessary funds for fiscal years 1975 and 1976, to carry out the purposes of this Act. Requires the Commissioner to allocate the first 25 percent of such funds to each State in proporation to the ratio that the number of children aged three to twenty-one in the State bears to the number of such children in all the States. Authorizes the Commissioner of Education to make grants to State education agencies to enable them to develop and carry out programs to provide, through the use of students in institutions of higher education, tutoring and instructional assistance, under the supervision of a qualified teacher, for homebound handicapped children who, though able to benefit from preschool, elementary, or secondary education, are prevented by their handicaps from attending school. Requires local educational institutions that apply for funds under this program to give special consideration to veterans qualified for vocational rehabilitation, and to students with greater financial need. Requires that the compensation for participating college students shall be between the Federal minimum wage set by the Commissioner and the maximum wage set by the Commissioner. Requires that the aim of such program shall be to integrate the handicapped into society, and to avoid the development of a segregated, permanent system of education for the handicapped. Provides that the Commissioner shall make grants under this Act to State educational agencies on the merits of their proposals to him which shall be submitted on such application forms and under such guidelines as he shall prescribe. Authorizes $55,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, and necessary funds for fiscal years 1975, and 1976, to carry out the purposes of this Act. Requires the Commissioner to allocate the first 25 percent of such funds to each State in proportion to the ratio that the number of children aged three to twenty-one in the State bears to the number of such children in all the States.
United States · United States Congress · 20 January 1973
Provides that no license granted for a broadcasting station operation under the Communications Act of 1934 shall be for a longer term than five years (now three years). Provides under the Communications Act that the Federal Communications Commission in acting upon the applications for renewal of broadcast licenses may not consider the application of any other person for the facilities for which renewal is sought if the Commissioner finds that the public interest, convenience and necessity would be served by granting the renewal application to the present operator. Provides that if the Commissioner determines that the renewal applicant would not be in the public interest it may deny such application and accept other applications.
United States · United States Congress · 18 January 1973
Provides no part of any appropriation and no local currency owned by the United States shall be available for payment of any expenses, nor shall transportation be provided by the United States, in connection with travel outside the fifty States (including the District of Columbia) of the United States of: (1) any Delegate, Resident Commissioner, or member of either House of Congress after he has been defeated as a candidate for nomination, or election, to a seat in the House of Representatives or Senate of the United States in any primary or regular election until such time as he shall thereafter again become a Member of Congress, or (2) any Delegate, Resident Commissioner, or Member of either House of Congress after the adjournment sine die of the last session of a Congress if he is not a candidate for reelection in the next Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 18 January 1973
Comprehensive Older Americans Services Amendments - Title I: Declaration of Objectives - States that the general purpose of this Act is to make available comprehensive health, education, and social service programs to our older citizens. Title II: Administration on Aging - Declares that the Commissioner on Aging shall be the principal officer of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare for carrying out this Act. Establishes within the Administration on Aging a National Information and Resource Center for the Aging to collect, review, organize, publish, and disseminate information and data related to the particular problems caused by aging, including information describing measures which are or may be employed for meeting such problems. Establishes the National Advisory Council on the Aging designated to advise and assist the President as he may direct on matters relating to the special needs of Older Americans; to assist the Commissioner on Aging in carrying out his functions under this Act; to review and evaluate programs of the Federal Government with emphasis on identifying unsolved problems of older Americans; and to make recommendations to the President, the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, the Commissioner, and Congress for the establishment of new programs for the aged. Provides that not later than one hundred and twenty days after the close of each fiscal year, the Secretary shall prepare and submit to the President for transmittal to the Congress a complete report on the activities carried out under this Act. Title III: Grants for State and Area Programs - Prescribes standards and procedures for the establishment by the several States of State and area social service programs in order to develop a greater capacity and foster development of comprehensive systems to serve older persons. Provides that the Commissioner shall not finally disapprove any State plan, or any modification thereof, without first affording the State reasonable notice and opportunity for a hearing. Authorizes appropriations of $12,000,000 for fiscal year 1973, and $15,000,000 for fiscal years 1974 and 1975 for grants to States for paying such percentage as each State agency determines, but not more than 75 percent of the cost of administering the State plan. Title IV: Training and Research - Directs the Commissioner to make grants to State agencies and educational institutions for the purpose of: (1) publicizing available opportunities for careers in the field of aging; (2) encouraging qualified persons to enter or re-enter the field of aging; (3) encouraging persons from other professions to undertake assignments on a parttime basis in the field of aging; and (4) assisting in covering the cost of courses of training or study. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants for the purpose of establishing multidisciplinary centers of gerontology to recruit and train personnel; conduct basic research on the problem of the aged; provide consultation to public and voluntary organizations; and create opportunities for research projects with respect to aging. Authorizes appropriations of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1973, $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1974 and $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, for the purposes of attracting personnel to and training personnel in the field of aging. Authorizes appropriations of $20,000,000 for the fiscal year 1973, $30,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, and $40,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, for establishing multidisciplinary centers or gerontology. Title V: Multipurpose Senior Centers - Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to units of general purpose local government or other public or nonprofit private agencies to pay not to exceed 75 percent of the cost of leasing, altering, or renovating existing facilities to serve as multipurpose senior centers. Establishes standards to be followed by the Commissioner in making such grants and authorizes appropriations of $35,000,000 annually for fiscal years 1973-1975 to carry out the provisions of this section. Creates a Multipurpose Senior Center Insurance Fund to be adminstered by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to insure mortgages on multipurpose senior centers. Authorizes appropriations of $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1973, and for each of the next two succeeding fiscal years for the purpose of making grants to meet the costs of compensation of professional and technical personnel for the initial operation of multipurpose senior centers. Title VI: National Older Americans Volunteer Program - Provides that no compensation paid to individual volunteers under the Retired Senior Volunteer Program under the Older Americans Act shall be considered income for any purposes. Provides continuing appropriations for such program in the amount of $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1973, $30,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, and $40,000,000 for fiscal year 1975. Authorizes appropriations of $35,000,000 for fiscal year 1973, $45,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, and $55,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, for the continuation of the Foster Grandparent Program under the Older Americans Act. Title VII: Nutrition Programs - Provides under the Older Americans Act of 1965 that the Secretary of Agriculture and the Commodity Credit Corporation may donate specified products acquired by them to a recipient of a grant or contract for providing nutritional services for the elderly. Title VIII: Special Impact Programs - Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to public or nonprofit private agencies for payment of part of the cost of any program designed to: (1) assist in meeting in special housing needs of older persons; (2) improve the transportation services available to older persons; (3) meet the needs of unemployed low-income older persons; (4) provide continuing education to older persons; and (5) provide retirement education and information to persons planning retirement. Authorizes appropriations of $50,000,000 for fiscal year 1973, $75,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, and $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, for providing assistance under this title. Title IX: Amendments to other Acts - Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to States which have submitted a long-range program and an annual program for library services for older persons. Specifies that the Commissioner is authorized to make grants to institutions of higher education to assist such institutions in planning, developing, and carrying out programs specifically designed to apply the resources of higher education to the problems of the elderly. Directs the Commissioner to make grants to State and local educational agencies or other public or private nonprofit agencies for educational programs for elderly persons whose ability to speak and read the English language is limited and who live in an area with a culture different from their own. (Amends 42 U.S.C. 3001,3011(b); 42 U.S.C. 3012(3), (4); 42 U.S.C. 3044; 42 U.S.C. 3044a, 3044b; Amends 20 U.S.C. 354, 355, 355nts; 20 U.S.C. 1504(a) (2); 20 U.S.C. 1505(a); 20 U.S.C. 1078; 20 U.S.C. 1209, 1210, 1211; 20 U.S.C. 954)
United States · United States Congress · 18 January 1973
Provides that a person connected with or employed by the news media or press, or who is independently engaged in gathering information for publication or broadcast, shall not be required to disclose before the Congress or any Federal court, grand jury, or administrative entity any information, written or oral, or pictorial material or the source of that information or material procured for publication or broadcast. Provides that the above provisions shall not apply with respect to the source of any allegedly defamatory information in any case where the defendant in a civil action for defamation asserts a defense based on the source of such information.
United States · United States Congress · 18 January 1973
Creates an Atlantic Union delegation, composed of 18 eminent citizens, which is authorized to organize and participate in a convention made up of similar delegations from such North Atlantic Treaty parliamentary democracies as desire to join in the enterprise, and other parliamentary democracies the convention may invite, to explore the possibility of agreement on: (1) a declaration that the goal of their peoples is to transform their present relationship into a more effective unity based on Federal principles; (2) a timetable for the transition by stages to this goal; and (3) a commission to facilitate advancement toward such stages. Requires the convention's recommendations to be submitted to the Congress. Provides that not more than half of the delegation's members shall be from one political party, and that 6 of the delegates shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, after consultation with the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, 6 by the President of the Senate, after consultation with the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, and 6 by the President of the United States. Allows all members of the delegation to speak and vote individually in the convention. Authorizes the delegation in carrying out the purposes of this Act: (1) to seek to arrange an international convention and such other meetings and conferences as it may deem necessary; (2) to employ and fix the compensation within prescribed limits of such temporary professional and clerical staff as it deems necessary; and (3) to pay not in excess of $100,000 toward such expenses as may be involved as a consequence of holding any meetings or conferences authorized by this joint resolution. Authorizes not to exceed $200,000 to be appropriated to the Department of State to carry out the purposes of this resolution, payments to be made upon vouchers approved by the Chairman of the delegation subject to the laws, rules, and regulations applicable to the obligation and expenditure of appropriated funds. Requires the delegation to make semiannual reports to Congress accounting for all expenditures and such other information as it deems appropriate. Provides that the delegation shall cease to exist at the expiration of the three-year period beginning on the date of the approval of this resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 18 January 1973
Constitutional Amendment - Provides that the people of the several States and the District of Columbia shall elect the President and Vice President. Provides that the pair of persons having the greatest number of votes for such offices shall be elected, if such number be at least 40 percent of the whole vote cast. Provides for a runoff election in any other case.
United States · United States Congress · 18 January 1973
Makes it the sense of the Congress that: (1) the producers and distributors of motion pictures and television and radio programs should cease the production and distribution of those films and programs which defame, sterotype, ridicule, demean, or degrade ethnic, racial, or religious groups; (2) those responsible persons in the motion picture and broadcasting industries who are desirous of contributing to the vitality of democratic institutions by promoting ethnic, racial, and religious harmony should establish adequate standards for the production of films and broadcasts which portray ethnic, racial, or religious groups and that such standards should be rigorously enforced by the motion picture and broadcasting industries; and (3) if within one year after the enactment of this resolution the motion picture and broadcasting industries have failed to establish and enforce adequate standards for the production of films and broadcasts which portray ethnic, racial, or religious groups, appropriate committees of the House and Senate shall formulate and propose such measures as are necessary to establish and implement such standards.
United States · United States Congress · 11 January 1973
Designates the portion of the project for flood control protection on Chartiers Creek that is within Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, as the "James G. Fulton Flood Protection Project".
United States · United States Congress · 11 January 1973
Antihijacking Act - Provides that whenever the President determines that a foreign nation is acting in a manner inconsistent with the Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Seizure of Aircraft, he may suspend the right of any air carrier and foreign air carrier to engage in foreign air transportation, and any persons to operate aircraft in foreign air commerce, to and from that foreign nation as well as between the United States and any foreign nation which maintains air service between itself and that foreign nation. Provides that after June 30, 1973, no air carrier or foreign air carrier shall operate an aircraft in air transportation unless all passengers boarding that aircraft in the United States, and all baggage carried aboard the aircraft, shall have been inspected by means of a metal detection device or by an X-ray device immediately prior to boarding and have not been found to carry or contain an unauthorized device or weapon of any kind. Prescribes criminal penalties for violation of this Act. (Amends 49 U.S.C. 1514, 1421)
United States · United States Congress · 9 January 1973
Provides that in the determination of the annual income of recipients of vetetans' pensions and dependency and indemnity compensation the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs shall not reduce the amount of such pension or compensation because of increases in monthly social security benefits under Public law 92-336. (Adds 38 U.S.C. 415(g)(4) 503(d))
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Establishes an Institute for Continuing Studies of Juvenile Justice to serve as a coordinating center for the collection and dissemination of information in the field of juvenile delinquency and control, including comparisons and analysis of State and Federal laws and model laws and recommendations designed to promote effective and efficient systems of juvenile justice; and as a training center for representatives of all levels of government who are connected with the treatment and control of juvenile offenders. Provides that the Institute shall be under the supervision of a Director, appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, who will supervise the staff, faculty, and administrative personnel necessary to the Institute's functioning. Gives the Institute powers to carry out the objectives of this Act. Creates an Advisory Commission to design a curriculum for the Institutes enrollees and to supervise the overall policy and operations of the Institute. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for the purposes of this Act. (Adds 18 U.S.C. 5041-5048)
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Coal Mine Surface Area Protection Act - Declares it to be the purpose of this Act to encourage a nationwide effort to regulate coal mining surface operations to prevent their adverse environmental effects; to return lands already damaged by coal mining surface operations to productive and useful purposes; to abate the adverse effects from previously coal mined lands; to prevent further detriment to the Nation from coal mining surface operations through the establishment of criteria and standards for coal mined lands; and to encourage the States to carry out programs for these purposes. Sets forth definitions of terms used in this Act. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) make investigations or inspections necessary to insure compliance with this Act and the rules and regulations adopted pursuant thereto; (2) conduct hearings; (3) where public health or safety is involved, or the health or safety of the employee is involved, issue a cease-and-desist order for any operation; (4) order the revocation of any permit for failure to comply with any of the provisions of this Act or any rules and regulations adopted pursuant thereto; (5) appoint such advisory committees as may be of assistance to the Secretary in the development of programs and policies; (6) review and vacate or modify orders and decisions of the Secretary; and (7) designate certain areas as unsuitable for surface mining. Directs the Secretary to make an annual report to Congress concerning the activities conducted by him under this Act relating to the regulation of coal mine surface operations. Provides that an area may be designated as unsuitable for surface coal mining if the Secretary finds that it is not economically or physically possible to reclaim the land, or if surface mining is already being conducted in such area, the mining will cause irrevocable or lasting injury to the environment of the area or an area adversely affected by such area. Provides that, on and after the effective date of this Act, no person shall engage in coal mining surface operations without a permit issued by the Secretary under the provisions of this Act. Sets forth the information required to be submitted in an application for such a permit. Provides that an application for an original permit, and for any renewal of such permit, shall be accompanied by a certificate issued by an insurance company authorized to do business in the United States certifying that the applicant has a public liability insurance policy in force for the coal mining operation for which such permit is sought. Provides that any bona fide resident of the area having a valid legal interest which will be affected by the proposed coal mining or the officer or head of any Federal, State, or local governmental agency or authority shall have the right to file written objections to a proposed mining operation. Provides that after such objections the Secretary shall hold public hearings at which the applicant for a permit shall have the burden of establishing that his application is in compliance with the applicable State and Federal laws. Provides that if the Secretary finds that the overburden of any part of the area of land described in the permit application is such that deposits of sediment in streambeds, landslides or acid in mineralized water pollution in violation of State and Federal water quality standards, whichever is higher, cannot feasibly be prevented, he shall delete such part of the land described in the application upon which such overburden exists. Provides that no application shall be approved if mining the area will adversely affect any publicly owned park unless screening and other measures approved by the Secretary are used. Provides that no permit application shall be approved under this Act if: (1) the applicant is presently ineligible to obtain a permit or license to conduct a coal mining surface operation under the law of the State in which the proposed mining is to be conducted; (2) the applicant has had a permit revoked by the Secretary under this Act; or (3) the applicant has violated, and continues to violate, any law, rule, or regulation of the United States, or of any department or agency of the United States, pertaining to coal mining operations or reclamation. Provides that no permit application shall be approved unless a plan of operation and reclamation is approved. Requires such reclamation plan to include a statement: (1) of the highest and best use to which the land was put prior to the commencement of surface mining; (2) of the use which is proposed to be made of the land following reclamation; (3) of the manner in which mining operations will be conducted and whatever actions will be taken to prevent adverse environmental effects; (4) that proper consideration has been given to insure that the plan is consistent with local environmental conditions and current mining and reclamation technologies; (5) that there will be provisions to maintain and improve where practicable the quality of water in surface and ground water systems; and (6) of the steps to be taken to insure that the coal mining operation complies with all applicable air and water regulations and health and safety standards. Provides that after a permit application has been approved, but before a permit is issued, the applicant shall file with the Secretary a bond for performance, payable to the United States and conditioned that the operator shall faithfully perform all the requirements of this Act. Provides that the amount of the bond shall be sufficient to assure the completion of the reclamation plan. Creates in the Department of the Treasury a Coal Mine Lands Reclamation Fund. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Fund the initial sum of $100,000,000. Authorizes the Secretary to use the Fund to acquire and reclaim lands previously affected by coal mine surface operations and not reclaimed. Authorizes the Secretary to direct that reclaimed land may be improved for water-based or other recreational purposes, and that a reasonable user charge shall be imposed. Allows the Secretary to renew a permit for mining if the operation is in compliance with existing law. Provides that the Secretary may revoke any permit if, after a hearing, he determines that the operator has violated any provision of this Act or any rules and regulations of the Secretary issued under this Act. Provides that every operator shall reclaim the land affected by his mining. Provides that such reclamation shall include the removal and replacement of topsoil and the burying of any toxic material. Provides that no operator shall throw, dump, pile, or otherwise place or permit the throwing, dumping, piling or otherwise placing of any material of any type outside the area of land which is under permit. Authorizes the appointment of inspectors to make any necessary survey and inspection of coal mining operations and to administer and enforce all Federal coal mining laws, rules and regulations, and to visit each surface coal mine operation subject to this Act a minimum of twice monthly on an irregular basis and without prior notice to the operator or any of his employees. Authorizes appeals by anyone aggrieved under this Act in accordance with the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act. Authorizes the Attorney General to apply for relief by injunction to enforce compliance with, or restrain violations of any provisions of this Act or any rule, regulation, or order made pursuant thereto. Allows any resident of the United States, who is injured in any manner through the failure of any operator to comply with the provisions of this Act, to bring an action for damages, including attorney fees, regardless of the amount involved, in an appropriate United States district court. Provides that the operator of a coal mine in which a violation of any provision of this Act occurs shall be assessed a civil penalty by the Secretary under the provisions of the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act. States that any order or decision issued by the Secretary under this Act shall be subject to judicial review in accordance with such Act. Provides that nothing in this Act shall preclude or deny the right of any State or political subdivision thereof to adopt and enforce standards relating to the conduct of coal mining surface operations and reclamation, except such State or political subdivision may not adopt or enforce any standard which is less stringent than the corresponding Federal standard or regulation then being enforced under this Act by the Secretary. Authorizes the Secretary to appoint an advisory committee to consult with and make recommendations to the Secretary on matters involving or relating to coal mining research. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Disaster Relief Reform Act - Directs the Director of the Office of Emergency Preparedness to issue such rules and regulations and take such actions as may be necessary to: (1) make available at a single location any disaster assistance available in that area; (2) assist local citizens and public officials in obtaining disaster assistance by providing advice and assistance to them in requesting or applying for such assistance; and (3) receive from local citizens and public officials applications and requests for such assistance and deliver such applications and requests to the appropriate agencies. Transfers the functions of the Small Business Administration with respect to disaster loans as follows: (1) any such function which relates to disaster loans to business loans other than small business concerns is transferred to the Secretary of Commerce; and (2) any such function which relates to disaster loans to persons other than business concerns is transferred to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Authorizes the Director, in order to carry out the purpose of the Disaster Relief Act, to issue to the Secretary of the Treasury notes or other obligations which must be purchased by the Secretary. Authorizes the Director to transfer the proceeds of any issue of notes or other obligations to any issue of notes or other obligations to any Government agency for the purpose of assisting such agency in carrying out its functions with respect to disaster relief.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Extends indefinitely the flood insurance program authorized under the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968. Provides that in carrying out this flood insurance program the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development: (1) shall take such steps as are necessary to assure the automatic inclusion in each fire and property insurance policy sold in the United States of flood insurance coverage; (2) shall establish a surcharge of 3 percent of premium to be collected by every insurer with respect to each fire and property insurance policy sold in the United States, whether or not such insurance policy includes flood insurance coverage; and (3) shall establish in the Treasury a National Disaster Insurance Fund which shall consist of: (a) the collected surcharges on premium; (b) 1 percent of all sums repaid with respect to Small Business Administration and Federal Housing Administration disaster loans; and (c) such sums as the Congress shall appropriate. Requires the Secretary to make payments from the fund to each claimant under the flood insurance program for the full amount of loss suffered by such claimant in a flood during a presidentially declared national disaster. (Amend 42 U.S.C. 4056)
![Official portrait of Rep. McDade, Joseph M. [R-PA-10]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/m000399_200.jpg)