United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1976
Expresses the sense of Congress that the Attorney General parole into the United States those South American aliens having fled to Argentina and those Uruguayans within Uruguay who are in danger of losing their lives because of their political beliefs.
United States · United States Congress · 29 September 1976
Youth Opportunities Industrialization Centers Job Creation and Training Act - Directs the Secretary of Labor to enter into contracts with Opportunities Industrialization Centers, Incorporated, and with any other nonprofit community-based organization for the provision of (1) comprehensive employment services and jobs for unemployed persons, especially unemployed youth; (2) career education and counseling services for secondary school students; (3) career education for unemployed persons, especially unemployed youth; or (4) work-study projects in community development and improvement for unemployed youth. Directs the head of each Federal agency administering enumerated revenue sharing and public works programs to assure that special consideration is given to Opportunities Industrialization Centers and other nonprofit community-based organizations for the provision of comprehensive employment services and job opportunities for unemployed persons. Specifies standards and guidelines relative to contracts entered into under this Act, including guidelines with respect to (1) persons and types of positions to be given priority under job placement programs, (2) mandatory benefits and maximum salaries of positions filled under job placement programs, and (3) hiring preference and working conditions regarding the staffs of contract programs. Amends the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act to authorize the Secretary of Labor to provide financial assistance for year-round jobs for economically disadvantaged youths. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to qualify wages paid to specified previously unemployed persons for the work incentive program expenses credit.
United States · United States Congress · 29 September 1976
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for the reimbursement of litigation expenses, including attorney's fees, incurred by an individual substantially prevailing in any civil proceeding brought in any United States court for a declaratory judgement regarding the qualification of a pension plan, or for the redetermination collection, or recovery of a tax payment. Requires the return of all records subpenaed in connection with an investigation into a possible tax deficiency or violation of tax laws within 15 days of: (1) any final administrative decision that there is no tax deficiency or violation, or that no action will be brought to prosecute any claim; (2) any final judicial decision with respect to the violation or underpayment in which the taxpayer substantially prevails; or (3) the expiration of the period in which the underpayment may be assessed, or the violation prosecuted, whichever of the three occurs first. (Amends 28 U.S.C. 2412)
United States · United States Congress · 21 September 1976
Condemns the murders of Orlando Letelier and Ronni Karpen Moffitt and the serious injury of Michael Moffitt. Urges a complete and thorough investigation by federal authorities of the circumstances surrounding the bombing.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1976
Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to authorize the recovery of reasonable attorney's fees in case of a successful maintenance of an action against a carrier for damages sustained in the transportation of property if the plaintiff has filed a claim with such carrier and the claim has not been paid within 90 days of its receipt.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1976
Calls upon the President to furnish assistance to the Peoples Republic of China for relief of the damage and injuries suffered in the country as a result of the earthquakes occurring on July 27 and 28, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 15 September 1976
Permits the acceptance by the House of Representatives of a gift of a portrait of Leslie C. Arends of the State of Illinois, a former member. Provides that such portrait shall be displayed at a location in the United States Capitol Building, subject to approval of the Speaker of the House.
United States · United States Congress · 2 September 1976
Foreclosure Forebearance Standards Act - Requires any person who makes a federally related mortgage loan to maintain facilities sufficient to insure availability of information concerning such mortgage. States that within 60 days after payments on a mortgage become delinquent and within 30 days before the initiation of any foreclosure proceedings the following must occur: (1) a meeting with the mortgagor to work out a repayment plan; and (2) a transfer of information with respect to such proceedings to the mortgagor. Places restraints on the initiation proceedings, including the requirement that a mortgagee refrain from instituting such proceedings until at least three full monthly installments are due and unpaid, except where the mortgagor abandons the secured property. States that a mortgagee must cease foreclosure proceedings where a mortgagor tenders the total amount due plus attorney's fees. Provides that any mortgagee who fails to comply with state requirements shall no longer be eligible for Federal assistance. Defines the term "federally related mortgage loan" for purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 1 September 1976
Expresses the sense of the House that there should be appropriated $10,000,000 to recondition, activate, and operate the United States ship Sanctuary as a permanent active duty hospital ship to provide immediate assistance to the wounded in Lebanon and to other areas of the world.
United States · United States Congress · 31 August 1976
Authorizes the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to implement a five-year demonstration program to increase the average annual diversion of water from Lake Michigan.
United States · United States Congress · 31 August 1976
Creates a nine member House Select Committee on the Fiscal Problems of Cities. Directs the committee to conduct a study to identify the nature and causes of problems afflicting large cities which face severe fiscal imbalance. Provides that consideration shall be given problems which contribute to the financial plight of cities, including: (1) net outmigration of population; (2) decline in employment opportunities; (3) adverse city/suburban relationships; (4) cost of public services; (5) rising crime rates; (6) lack of new investment in housing; and (7) racial, ethnic, and economic segregation. Calls upon the committee to develop a policy regarding the appropriate role of various levels of government in the solution of such problems. Requires the committee to evaluate the consequences of, and coordination among, existing Federal policies and programs which relate to the major problems identified by the committee. Directs the committee to formulate specific recommendations regarding Federal legislation and executive administrative action for modifications of or alternatives to present Federal programs.
United States · United States Congress · 26 August 1976
Authorizes the President to issue a proclamation designating the week beginning October 3, 1976, and ending October 9, 1976, as "National Volunteer Firemen Week."
United States · United States Congress · 23 August 1976
Calls upon the President to furnish assistance to the Peoples Republic of China for relief of the damage and injuries suffered in the country as a result of the earthquakes occurring on July 27 and 28, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1976
Fuel Discharge Act - Title I: Discharge of Fuel - Prohibits discharges of fuel by vessels into the territorial seas of the United States. Prohibits discharges of fuel by United States vessels on the high seas. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibitions for discharges which are necessary for safety or emergency reasons, or which are less than ten gallons in quantity. Requires immediate reporting of any discharges to the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating, who shall monitor and analyze such discharges. Stipulates that such Secretary and the Secretary of Commerce shall enforce the provisions of this title. Imposes a civil penalty of not more than $100,000 for each violation of the provisions of this Act. Imposes an additional penalty of up to $100,000 or five years imprisonment or both for knowing violation of the provisions of this Act. Stipulates that each day of a continuing violation shall constitute a separate offense. Authorizes civil suits by private parties to enforce provisions of this Act. Directs the Secretary of State to seek effective international cooperation to prohibit the discharge of fuel oils and petroleum products into the oceanic waters and high seas of the United States. Title II: Comprehensive Research on Discharging of Fuel - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish criteria for determining the impact of such discharges on human health, animal and plant life, and marine ecosystems.
United States · United States Congress · 28 July 1976
Rail Amendments - Title I: Amendments to the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 - Amends the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 the make the performance of the functions of the Office of Rail Public Counsel the responsibility of the Rail Services Planning Office until a Director of the Office of Rail Public Counsel has taken office. Transfers the funds appropriated to the Rail Public Counsel, pursuant to the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976, to the Director of the Rail Services Planning Office for such purpose. Grants immunity from liability for damages to the Consolidated Rail Corporation or its directors with respect to claims based solely on property transfers made by the Corporation to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, or any State, local, or regional transportation authority to meet the needs of commuter or innercity rail passenger service. States that options conveyed to the Corporation by a railroad in reorganization with respect to the acquisition of rail properties pursuant to the final system plan by the Corporation, on behalf of a State, local, or regional transportation authority shall be deemed to remain in effect for seven days after the enactment of this Act. Increases the aggregate principal on loan agreements for payments of obligations which the United States Railway Association may enter into with the Consolidated Rail Corporation, the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, and profitable railroads from $230,000,000 to $450,000,000. Allows such obligations to include payments for claims deriving from membership in employee voluntary relief plans and employee medical and life insurance plans. Requires the Corporation to promptly make application to the Association for loan funds if the "cash and other current assets of the estates" of railroads in reorganization are insufficient to pay specified obligations. Specifies priorities for the disbursement of funds held in escrowed accounts by a railroad in reorganization which are determined to be "cash and other current assets of the estate" of such railroad. Increases the aggregate principal amount of obligations issued by the Association which may be outstanding at any one time from $275,000,000 to $495,000,000. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make payments to the trustees of a railroad in reorganization for purposes of discharging obligations of such railroad to nonemployee claimants for personal injuries suffered during the reorganization period. Revises the basis for determining compensation for the use of rail properties or the value of such properties of railroads in reorganization. Allows States, responsible persons, or profitable railroads to acquire rail properties which were designates in the final system plan to be offered for sale to a profitable railroad but which were subsequently transferred to the Corporation after termination of such designation. Sets forth review procedures for such acquisition proposals. Entitles the Consolidated Rail Corporation, the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, an acquiring railroad or the United States Railway Association to a direct claim from the estate of a railroad in reorganization for amounts paid by such entities for specified employee claims against the railroad in reorganization. Revises the method for determining the monthly displacement allowance for protected employees adversely affected by railroad reorganzation. Makes the resolution procedures established by the Consolidated Rail Corporation the exclusive means available for resolving disputes between the Corporation and noncontract employees and stipulates that any arbitration decision shall be final with respect to such parties. Title II: Amendments to the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 - Amends the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 to revise the time period during which railroads may apply to the Secretary of Transportation for financial assistance for facilities rehabilitation and improvement financing. States that the Secretary shall not consider the availability of obligations guaranteed under such Act in determining whether the assistance requested is available from other sources. Authorizes the Secretary to make redeemable preference shares purchased by him for rehabilitation and improvement financing subordinate to common stock under certain conditions. Sets forth prerequisites and conditions for obligations to be Federally guaranteed under such Act. Directs the Secretary to conduct a comprehensive study to freight transportation in the Midwest. Title III: Amendments to the Rail Passenger Service Act - Amends the Rail Passenger Service Act to exempt from provisions of the Public Health Service Act, relating to quarantines and inspections, waste disposals from railroad conveyances operated in intercity rail freight service, or maintenance service. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to submit a report to Congress with repsect to the environmental effects of such exemption and the financial effects on the railroad industry of a repeal or modification of such exemption. Title IV: Amendments to the Interstate Commerce Act - Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to allow common carriers by railroad to enter into or operate under a contract with freight forwarders governing the transportation of property moving on the bills of lading of such freight forwarder and the compensation to be paid for such transportation. Requires that any such contract be filed with the Interstate Commerce Commission and that such agreement not unduly prefer or prejudice any of its participants or other freight forwarder. Removes the authority of the Commission with respect to the discontinuance or abandonment of any spur, industrial, team, switching, or side tracks which are located entirely in one State or any street, suburban, or interurban electric railway which is not operated as part of a general system of rail transportation.
United States · United States Congress · 28 July 1976
Amends rule XXXII of the Rules of the House of Representatives to allow specified present and former employees and Members of the House to enter the Hall of the House and rooms leading thereto. Provides that such persons shall not be admitted if they have any direct personal or pecuniary interest in any legislative measure coming up for consideration in the House.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1976
Requires each State receiving financial assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 which is operating a program designed to insure reading readiness for educationally deprived preschool children or children in grades 1, 2, or 3 to continue such programs at their present level. Prohibits the exclusion of children enrolled in such program from further participation on the ground that such child has achieved a reading aptitude equal to or greater than the normal reading aptitude for the grade in which the child is enrolled.
United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1976
Requires each State receiving financial assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 which is operating a program designed to insure reading readiness for educationally deprived preschool children or children in grades 1, 2, or 3 to continue such programs at their present level. Prohibits the exclusion of children enrolled in such program from further participation on the ground that such child has achieved a reading aptitude equal to or greater than the normal reading aptitude for the grade in which the child is enrolled.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 1976
Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to prescribe standards for carbon monoxide in the passenger area of buses and sustained-use vehicles in order to protect the health of passengers. Requires that State implementation plans include measures to attain and enforce such standards.
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 1976
Extends from ten to 15 years the period in which eligible veterans may receive veterans' educational assistance. Makes such extension effective on the date of the enactment of this Act. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 1662)
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States Postal Service shall not close or suspend the operation of any post offices, unless there is a clear and compelling need to do so. Encourages the service to continue cost-cutting programs which do not affect levels of service.
United States · United States Congress · 10 June 1976
Amends the Canal Zone Code to provide a method for computing interest due on funds invested in the Panama Canal Company by the United States. Provides that no depreciation shall be allowed on the investment of the United States for lands, titles, treaty rights, and excavations.
United States · United States Congress · 2 June 1976
Extends the delimiting period in the case of any eligible veteran who is pursuing, during his or her tenth year of eligibility, a program of education. Terminates such extension on whichever of the following dates first occurs: (1) the date on which the veteran completes, or ceases to pursue, the program he was pursuing in his tenth year of eligibility; or (2) the last day of the 11-year period beginning on the date of his discharge from active duty. (Adds 38 U.S.C. 1662(e))
United States · United States Congress · 27 May 1976
Natural Gas Act 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 ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. 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 reports regarding the nature and availability of natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the estimated natural gas reserves for individual fields. 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 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. 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 · 27 May 1976
Makes individuals meeting specified criteria eligible for the award of reasonable attorney fees, expert witness expenses, and other costs reasonably incurred in connection with participation in any rulemaking, licensing, adjudicatory, or other proceeding conducted by a Federal agency. Directs individuals entitled to such an award to file an itemized bill with the clerk of the United States district court for the district where the proceeding was held within 30 days after final disposition of the matter involved in the proceeding. Directs the Administrative Office of the United States Courts to make payment of fees, expenses, and other costs under such awards, seeking reimbursement from the appropriate Federal agency. Makes prevailing plaintiffs in proceedings to review Federal agency actions eligible for the award by the court of reasonable attorney fees, expert witness expenses, and other costs reasonably incurred in such proceedings. Permits the court to reduce or deny an award on account of any direct monetary benefit secured by or the resources available to the person seeking review. Requires the Administrative Office of the United States Courts to submit to Congress an annual report on awards made under this Act. (Adds 5 U.S.C. 559, 707)
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1976
Government Economy and Spending Reform Act - Title I: Authorizations of New Budget Authority - Terminates on specified dates budget authority for all Government programs except health care services, general retirement and disability insurance, and Federal employee retirement and disability programs which are funded by trust funds. Declares out of order in either the Senate or the House of Representatives any legislation which authorizes new budget authority not in compliance with this Act. Requires the Committees on Appropriations and the Committees on the Budget of both Houses of Congress to identify each program's functional and subfunctional category (as so characterized in the Budget of the United States, Fiscal Year 1977, transmitted to Congress by the President on January 21, 1976), the committees having legislative jurisdiction over such program, and whether such program operates under permanent authorizations and budget authority. Makes the budget termination provisions of this Act effective on the first day of the Ninety-fifth Congress. Title II: Early Elimination of Inactive and Duplicate Programs - Requires the Comptroller General of the United States to identify for Congress any programs which have duplicate objectives or for which no outlays have been made for the last two fiscal years. Directs the standing committees of both Houses to consider such programs and report recommendations on such programs before March 15, 1978, if possible. Title III: Quadrennial Program Review and Evaluation - Sets forth a timetable for reviewing the budget of a Government program. Requires review by standing committees of the Congress every four years of each program's cost, effectiveness, and the extent to which such program duplicates or is similar to any other program. States that such review shall include a comprehensive evaluation of the merits of such program to determine if it warrants continuation. Requires justification of any recommendation to fund any program which has objectives similar to or the same as another program's objectives. Directs the Comptroller General and the Congressional Budget Office to provide Congress with information and analysis of programs being reviewed under this Act. Requires the President to similarly review the merits of continuing programs contained in the annual Budget and to report the finding of such review prior to transmitting the Budget to Congress. Title IV: Continuing Review and Evaluation - Directs the Comptroller General to report to Congress the result of any audit which shows a substantial deficiency in achievement of the objectives of any Government program. Requires subsequent audits, a report of which must be submitted to Congress, to determine if such deficiency has been eliminated. Title V: Miscellaneous - States that those provisions of this Act which direct the operation of either House are enacted as an exercise of the rulemaking power of such House and recognizes the right of either House to change such rules.
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1976
Permits the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to initiate a civil action to enforce Federal prohibitions against discriminatory housing practices. Allows Federal courts to award private plaintiffs bringing suit out to enforce such prohibitions reasonable attorney fees whether or not such individuals are financially able to bear the cost.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 1976
Directs the Postmaster General to issue a special postage stamp in honor of Doctor Martin Luther King, Junior, and in tribute to his accomplishments as a citizen of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1976
Minority Enterprise Act - Title I: Amendments Affecting the Small Business Act - Amends the Small Business Act to establish the Office of Minority Small Business Assistance Personnel in the Small Business Administration (SBA) to work with all agencies of the Government having procurement powers in order to identify contracts suitable for minority concerns and within each regional office of the SBA to supervise and coordinate minority small business programs. Defines the term "minority" as used under this Act. Directs the Administrator of the SBA to appoint an Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Procurement Assistance. Increases the authorization for appropriations in the small business loan program and requires that not less than 25 percent of aggregate direct loans shall be made to minority small business concerns. Increases the authorization for appropriations for the equal opportunity loan program. Provides statutory standards for contracting and subcontracting by the United States with respect to minority businesses. Directs the Administration to prepare and publish in the Federal Register rules governing the maximum size of small business concerns qualified to receive procurement assistance under the Small Business Act. Requires that the Administration shall report to Congress and the President concerning the development of minority small businesses. Authorizes $201,600,000 to be appropriated for purposes of this title. Title II: Amendments to the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 - Requires that a Utilization of Minority Business Enterprises clause appear in specified Government contracts. Defines "minority business enterprise" for purposes of this title. Requires that specified Government contractors establish and conduct a Minority Business Enterprises Subcontracting Program which includes: (1) designation of a liason officer to administer the contractor's program; (2) consideration of the potentialities of minority business enterprises in all "make or buy" decisions to provide materials or service; and (3) maintenance of records concerning procedures adopted and subcontracts awarded. Sets forth other preferences which will be extended to minority business enterprises. Title III: Commission on Federal Assistance to Minority Enterprise - Establishes the Commission on Federal Assistance to Minority Enterprise composed of 15 members to be appointed by the President with the consent of the Senate, from members of minority groups who are knowledgeable in minority participation in the economy. Provides for the compensation and terms of office of the members and the appointment of an Executive Director. Directs the Commission to develop methods for delivery of financial assistance to minority enterprise; for generating markets for goods and services; and for providing effective business education and technical assistance. Grants the Commission powers including: the holding of hearings, and information gathering from any agency of the U.S., in order to carry out the goals of this Act. Requires that the Commission shall submit semiannual reports to each House of Congress concerning its activities. Authorizes $748,000 to be appropriated for fiscal year 1977.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1976
Olympic Winter Games Authorization Act - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to provide grants to the Lake Placid 1980 Olympic Games, Incorporated, at such times, and under such conditions as he considers necessary and appropriate, for assisting in the planning, design, and construction of the necessary winter sports and supporting facilities in connection with the XIII international Olympic winter games. Requires the Secretary to take necessary action to assure that the facilities constructed with Federal assistance will be designed to provide maximum continued public use and benefit following the completion of the 1980 Olympic winter games. Requires the Secretary to submit interim reports to the Congress on the progress of the design and construction of facilities pursuant to this Act, together with any recommendations for further Federal Government involvement to assure a successful staging of such games. Specifies that a final report shall be submitted following completion of the 1980 games. Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary of $49,040,000 for grants and $250,000 for the administration of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1976
Amends the Medicare program of the Social Security Act to authorize payment under the supplementary medical insurance program for specified diagnostic tests and physical examinations given for the detection of breast cancer.
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Establishes in the House of Representatives the Select Committee on Nuclear Proliferation and Nuclear Export Policy. Directs the Committee to conduct a full and complete study of: (1) the threat of nuclear proliferation; (2) the present policies of the United States concerning nuclear proliferation; (3) the decisionmaking process within the executive branch on nuclear export policies; and (4) any related areas which the committee deems necessary to investigate and study to discharge its responsibilities. Directs the committee to report to the House as soon as practicable the results of its investigation and study, together with such recommendations as it deems advisable.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1976
Solid Waste Energy and Resource Recovery Act - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency: (1) to assist with research projects for the development of pilot plant facilities for the purpose of investigating new fuels, recovery methods, or technology; (2) to conduct demonstrations of new methods and technology; and (3) to test and evaluate such pilot plants and demonstration projects. Directs the Administrator to establish a program for the collection and dissemination of information to assist Federal, State, interstate, regional, and local agencies in planning and building solid waste collection, recycling and recovery facilities. Sets forth specific areas to be covered by such program. Directs the Administrator to make grants to State, interstate, municipal and intermunicipal agencies for: (1) the implementation of solid waste management plans and planning programs; (2) the development and revision of solid waste disposal plans as part of regional environmental protection systems; (3) the development of interlocal regions and establishment of regional agencies; (4) the development of proposals for various projects; and (5) the planning of programs for the removal and processing of abandoned motor vehicle hulks. Authorizes the Administrator to impose conditions consistent with the purposes of this Act upon such grants. Limits the amount of available Federal assistance to 85 percent of the total cost. Authorizes the Administrator to guarantee loans incurred by State, regional, or local government agencies to finance the construction of large-scale fuel, energy, or resource recovery facilities. Limits the total outstanding indebtedness allowed under this Act to $75,000,000. Sets forth procedures for applying for loan guarantees under this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to a State, regional authority or local government agency for the construction, operation, or maintenance of fuel, energy, and resource recovery facilities when such facilities cannot be financed by any other means. Limits the amount of each grant to 25 percent of the total cost of the project. Authorizes the appropriation of the following amounts for solid waste research and development and for grants for energy and resource recovery programs: $65,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1977; $17,000,000 for the transitional period ending September 30, 1977; and $70,000,000 for fiscal year 1978. Authorizes the appropriation of the following sums for grants for State, interstate, and local planning: $35,000,000 for fiscal year 1977; $9,000,000 for the transitional period; and $45,000,000 for fiscal year 1978. Authorizes the appropriation of the following sums for grants for construction of facilities: $40,000,000 for fiscal year 1977; 12,000,000 for the transitional period; and $60,000,000 for fiscal year 1978.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1976
Amends the National Sea Grant College and Program Act of 1966 by authorizing the appropriation of $50,000,000 for Sea Grant Colleges and Marine Science Development. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to support and encourage the advancement of research and development capabilities of other nations relating to the exploration, conservation, and management of marine resources. Authorizes the Secretary to support the funding of education and training of foreign nationals through sea grant colleges and other suitable institutes and agencies of the United States. Authorizes the appropriation of $3,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 to carry out such provisions. Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 to enable the Secretary to enter into contracts with, or make grants to, specified organizations for purposes of conducting activities of a national scope and concern appropriate in assisting him in carrying out programs relating to the development, conservation, utilization, management, and protection of the marine environment.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1976
Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to make expenditures to correct serious structural defects in dwellings securing loans guaranteed or insured by the Administrator if the defect is one that existed on the date of issuance of the loan and is one that a proper inspection could reasonably be expected to disclose (presently, the dwellings must have been actually inspected by either the VA or FHA during construction). (Amends 38 U.S.C. 1827(a)).
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Amends the National Housing Act to authorize expenditures by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development for repair of major structural defects which create a serious danger to the life and safety of inhabitants of any one-, two-, three-, or four-family dwelling covered by any mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1976
Alaskan Natural Gas Pipeline Authorization Act - Expresses the intent of Congress that the Alaskan natural gas pipeline be constructed promptly, without further administrative or judicial delay or impediment. Declares that the most efficient and economical method available for the transportation of Alaskan natural gas is a pipeline system from northern Alaska, across Canada, to the lower forty-eight States. Directs the Federal Power Commission to issue all necessary permits and authorizations in order to expedite the construction and operation of such pipeline within 60 days of the date of enactment of this Act. Grants the holders of such permits the powers of eminent domain under the Natural Gas Act. Directs the Secretary of the Interior and other appropriate Federal officials to issue all necessary permits and take appropriate action within 60 days to expedite the enforcement of all rights-of-way related to the construction and operation of such pipeline. Authorizes the Secretary to modify the pipeline route through the States to provide greater environmental protection during the construction period. Requires compliance with requirements of the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920 relating to the rights-of-way for pipelines through Federal lands. Exempts such pipeline from requirements regarding (1) environmental protection, (2) technical and financial capacity of applicants, (3) public hearings, (4) licensing requirements for crude oil under the Export Administration Act of 1969, and (5) furnishing of specified information and reports. Authorizes the Secretary and the Commission to waive procedural requirements of Federal law where desirable to accomplish the purposes of this Act. Declares that (1) the actions of Federal officers and agencies under this Act and (2) the legal or factual sufficiency of any environmental statement relative to such pipeline under provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 shall not be subject to judicial review of the courts. Allows the claims that (1) this Act is unconstitutional, (2) actions under this Act will deny Constitutional rights, and (3) actions taken are beyond the scope of authority conferred by this Act, provided that such claims are filed within 60 days following the date of the challenged action. Declares that exclusive jurisdiction shall be vested in the United States District Courts, and that review of any final order shall be had only upon direct appeal to the United States Supreme Court. Declares that the power to issue injunctive relief against the issuance of any certificate, except in cases where a final judgment is entered. Declares that authorizations issued pursuant to this Act shall grant no immunity from Federal antitrust laws.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1976
Lifeline Rate Act - Stipulates that no rate schedule of an electric utility shall result in a greater per kilowatt-hour charge to residential electric consumers for a subsistence quantity of electric energy than the lowest charge to any other electric consumer. Sets forth procedures for civil suits and judicial review where violations by utilities as regulatory authorities are alleged under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1976
Amends the National Sea Grant College and Program Act of 1966 to authorize appropriations for such Act through September 30, 1979. Authorizes the expenditure of $40,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $45,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and $50,000,000 for fiscal year 1979. Provides that provisions of the Act prohibiting the use of funds for the purchase or rental of any land or the rental, purchase, construction, or repair of buildings, docks, or vessels shall not apply to the payment for the services of research vessels and other ocean facilities directly supporting specific sea grant sponsored activities. Redefines "marine environment" to include the seabed and subsoil of submarine areas beyond the Continental Shelf and the natural resources thereof. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to encourage the advancement of other nations relating to the exploration, conservation, and management of marine resources. Gives the Secretary authority to support the funding of education and training of foreign nationals through sea-grant institutions. Authorizes the appropriation of $3,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 1977 through 1979 to carry out such functions. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into contracts with, or grants to, eligible institutions to assist the Secretary in carrying out programs relating to the development, management, and protection of the marine environment.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1976
National Diabetes Advisory Board Act - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish a National Diabetes Advisory Board to insure the implementation of the long-range plan formulated by the National Commission on Diabetes to combat diabetes. Specifies seven Federal health officers as members of the Board, in addition to seven health professionals and five members of the general public to be appointed by the Secretary. Makes provision for staffing and compensation. Authorizes the Board to enter into contracts or other arrangements, or to take such other action as may be necessary to carry out its functions. Authorizes the Board to engage in and sponsor activities, collect data, and provide technical assistance as it deems necessary and advisable in the performance of its functions. Requires the Board to submit simultaneously to the President and Congress an Annual Diabetes Report describing Board activities in the prior year and progress made in diabetes research, treatment, and education with specific reference to the long-range plan to combat diabetes mellitus and suggesting recommended future expenditures and legislation. Authorizes the appropriation of $500,000 for fiscal year 1976 and such sums as are necessary for each of the four fiscal years thereafter. Authorizes the Secretary to make distinguished scientist awards to individual scientists who have shown continuous and outstanding productivity in diabetes research for the purpose of continuing such research. Limits the amount of each grant to no more than $35,000 per year. Authorizes the appropriation of specified amounts for the purpose of making such grants in fiscal years 1976-1980. Authorizes, under the Public Health Service Act, the appropriation of specified sums in fiscal years 1977-1981 for the purpose of making grants to centers for research and training in diabetes mellitus and related endocrine and metabolic disorders.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1976
Revenue Sharing Reform Act - Provides that no unit of local government receiving funds under the State and Local Fiscal Assistance Act may spend more than 45 percent of such funds in any one of the priority expenditure categories. Sets forth such priority expenditure categories which include ordinary and necessary maintenance and operating expenses for public safety, environmental protection, public transportation, health, recreation, libraries, social services for the poor and aged, and financial administration. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to reserve such percentage of the total entitlement payment for any entitlement period, not to exceed 10 percent, as he deems necessary to insure that there will be sufficient funds available to pay adjustments due after the final allocation of funds. Provides that the reserved funds shall be allocated to those units of local government, excluding counties, wherein the number of persons at or below the low-income threshold exceed 15 percent. Sets forth local allocation procedures which require a unit of local government to establish procedures for the allocation of funds received in order to qualify for any payment under this Act. Requires that such procedures include citizen participation in the decision making process with regard to allocated funds and provide for the convening of a series of public hearings. Directs that no person shall be excluded from participation in, or be denied the benefits of, any program or activity of a State government or unit of local government which receives funds made available under this Act, on account of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Authorizes appropriations of sums necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1976
Special Prosecutor Act - Directs the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, to appoint a Special Prosecutor to head an Office of Special Prosecution. Grants the Special Prosecutor exclusive jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute in the name of the United States all offenses against the United States committed by any Federal officer, employee, and agent in connection with or arising out of intelligence or counter-intelligence activities or operations. Authorizes the Special Prosecutor to take any action necessary and proper to perform the purposes of this Act. Permits the Special Prosecutor to institute, in the name of the United States, any civil action for any claim arising out of or in connection with an offense or course of conduct which such individual is authorized to investigate or prosecute. Authorizes compensation and staffing for the Office of Special Prosecution. Authorizes the Special Prosecutor to delegate any authorized functions to personnel of the Office. Transfers all files, records, documents, and other materials in the possession or control of the Department of Justice, any previous special prosecutor, or any other Federal department or agency, which relate to matters within the exclusive jurisdiction of the Special Prosecutor, to such Prosecutor. Requires each Federal department or agency to expeditiously furnish any materials requested by the Special Prosecutor unless a court of competent jurisdiction orders otherwise. Instructs the Special Prosecutor to keep inviolate and safeguard from unwarranted disclosure all materials obtained or prepared by the Office of Special Prosecution. Terminates such Office three years after the date the President first appoints a Special Prosecutor. Directs the Special Prosecutor to make a report of his activities to the President and to Congress on the first and second anniversaries of taking office and not later than 30 days after termination of the Office. Requires the Special Prosecutor to make immediate and full report to the Congress at any time a Federal agency, officer, employee, or agent fails or refuses to comply with a request or demand for information, if such failure or refusal jeopardizes an investigation or prosecution conducted under this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as are necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1976
Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to admit free of import duty all operatic sets produced in Czechoslovakia by the designer, Swoboda, for the use of the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Illinois, in its Bicentennial production of "Paradise Lost".
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1976
Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1974 to establish as an independent establishment of the Executive Branch the Federal Election Commission, consisting of the Secretary of the Senate (ex officio), the Clerk of the House (ex officio), and six members appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. States that more than three members appointed by the President may be affiliated with the same party. Sets members' terms at six years with one members' term expiring every year. States that members will be chosen from among individuals who are not currently elected or appointed as an officer or employee of any branch of the Government of the United States, except current members of the Federal Election Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1976
Expresses the solidarity of the American people in efforts to enlarge human freedom by the participants in the second Brussels conference, February 17 to 19, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1976
Toxic Substances Control Act - Declares that it is the policy of the United States that: (1) hazardous and potentially hazardous chemical substances and mixtures should be adequately tested with respect to their effect on health and the environment and that such testing should be the responsibility of those who manufacture and those who process such chemical substances and mixtures; (2) adequate authority should exist to regulate chemical substances and mixtures which cause or contribute to an unreasonable risk to health or the environment, and to take action with respect to chemical substances and mixtures which are imminent hazards; and (3) authority over chemical substances and mixtures should be exercised in such a manner as not unduly to impede, or to create unnecessary economic barriers to, technological innovation while fulfilling the primary purpose of this Act to assure that such innovation and commerce in such chemical substances and mixtures do not cause or contribute to an unreasonable risk to health or the environment. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to require that testing be conducted on a substance or mixture to develop data with respect to the health and environmental effects for which there is an insufficiency of data and experience and which are relevant to a determination that the manufacture, distribution in commerce, processing, use, or disposal of such substance or mixture does or does not cause or contribute to an unreasonable risk to health or the environment when he makes findings enumerated in this Act. Directs the Administrator to consider all relevant factors in promulgating rules under this Act, including the effect on the competitive position of the person required to provide reimbursement in relation to the persons to be reimbursed and the share of the market for such substance or mixture of the person required to provide reimbursement in relation to the share of such market of the persons to be reimbursed. Establishes a committee to make recommendations to the Administrator respecting the chemical substances and mixtures to which the Administrator should give priority consideration for the promulgation of a rule under this Act. Requires that in making such a determination with respect to any chemical substance or mixture, the committee shall consider all relevant factors, including: (1) the quantities in which the substance or mixture is or will be manufactured; (2) the quantities in which the substance or mixture enters the environment; (3) the number of persons who will be exposed to the substance or mixture in their places of employment and the duration of such exposure; (4) the extent of human exposure to the substance or mixture; (5) the extent to which the substance or mixture is closely related to a chemical substance or mixture which is known to cause or contribute to an unreasonable risk to health or the environment; and (6) the existence of data concerning the effects of the substance or mixture on health or the environment. Directs the Administrator to promulgate rules under which: (1) each person who manufactures or processes or proposes to manufacture or process a chemical substance shall maintain such records, and shall submit to the Administrator such reports, as the Administrator may reasonably require, and (2) each person who manufactures or processes or proposes to manufacture or process a mixture, or a chemical substance in small quantities (as defined by the Administrator by rule) solely for scientific experimentation or analysis or for chemical research or analysis, including such research or analysis for the development of a product, shall maintain records and submit to the Administrator reports but only to the extent the Administrator determines the maintenance of records or submission of reports, or both, is necessary for the effective enforcement of the Act. Requires the Administrator, in consultation and cooperation with the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare and with other heads of appropriate agencies, to conduct such research and monitoring as is necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act. Requires the Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare and other heads of appropriate agencies, to design, establish, and coordinate an efficient and effective system for the retrieval of toxicological and other scientific data which could be useful to the Administrator in carrying out the purposes of this Act. Requires systematized retrieval to be developed for use by all Federal and other agencies with responsibilities in the area of regulation or study of chemical substances and mixtures and their effect on health or the environment. Limits the disclosure of data gathered under provisions of this Act. Provides for the designation of confidential information. Prohibits any discrimination against an employee for compliance with requirements of this Act. States that no employer may discharge any employee or otherwise discriminate against any employee with respect to the employee's compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment because the employee (or any person acting pursuant to the request of the employee) has: (1) commenced, caused to be commenced, or is about to commence or cause to be commenced a proceeding under this Act; (2) testified or is about to testify in any such proceeding; or (3) assisted or participated or is about to assist or participate in any manner in such a proceeding or in any other action to carry out the purposes of this Act. Provides that any employee who believes that the employee has been discharged or otherwise discriminated against by any person in violation of such provisions may, within thirty days after such alleged violation occurs, file (or have any person file on the employee's behalf) a complaint with the Secretary of Labor. Provides that upon receipt of such a complaint, the Secretary shall conduct an investigation of the violation alleged in the complaint. Sets forth criminal and civil penalties for violations of provisions of this Act. Requires the Council on Environmental Quality, in consultation with the Administrator, the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, the Secretary of Commerce, and the heads of other appropriate Federal departments or agencies, to coordinate a study of the feasibility of establishing (1) a standard classification system for chemical substances and related substances, and (2) a standard means for storing and for obtaining rapid access to information respecting such substances. Requires a report on such study to be completed and submitted to Congress not later than eighteen months after the date of the enactment of this Act. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act.
![Official portrait of Rep. Metcalfe, Ralph H. [D-IL-1]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/m000675_200.jpg)