United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1976
Establishes in the House of Representatives a select committee to be known as the Select Committee on Narcotics Abuse and Control. Provides that the select committee shall conduct a continuing comprehensive study and review of the problems of narcotics abuse and control and shall review any recommendations made by the President, or by any department or agency of the executive branch of the Federal Government, relating to programs or policies affecting narcotics abuse or control. Authorizes the select committee to conduct field investigations or inspections. Requires the select committee to submit an annual report to the House which shall include a summary of the activities of the select committee during the calendar year to which such report applies.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1976
Directs the President to establish an Office of Hispanic Affairs within specified executive departments and agencies. Provides that such office shall participate in all policy planning and development for all programs which affect the Hispanic communities. Authorizes the President to take such measures as he determines are necessary to instruct the chairpersons of the ten Federal regional councils to insure that the problems and needs of Hispanics are taken into consideration in decisions related to Federal assistance to State and local governments. Provides that the Secretary of Commerce shall establish and maintain a Hispanic Information Clearinghouse which shall collect, analyze, and disseminate information concerning the social, economic, employment, health, and housing needs and conditions of Hispanics.
United States · United States Congress · 10 June 1976
National Commitment to Energy Independence using Solar and Geothermal Energy Act - Title I: Findings, Policy, Purpose, and Definitions - Declares it the policy of the United States and the purpose of this Act to eliminate reliance on imports of crude oil as an energy source through the implementation of energy conservation programs coupled with construction of solar and geothermal energy generation facilities. Title II: Assistant Administrator for Solar and Geothermal Energy and Conservation - Creates, within the Energy Research and Development Administration, the position of Assistant Administrator for Solar and Geothermal Energy and Conservation. Directs the Assistant Administrator to oversee projects and programs under the Solar Heating and Cooling Demonstration Act of 1974 and the Solar Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1974. Authorizes the Administrator to undertake energy conservation duties in the areas involving reduction of heat use, heat loss, electric energy use, and the reuse of solid wastes. Title III: Test and Evaluation Facilities - Directs the Assistant Administrator to implement various current systems concepts related to solar and geothermal energy. Lists specific number of test facilities as a required part of such program. Directs the Assistant Administrator to establish programs to standardize photovoltaic component costs below specified levels within five years. Requires the establishment of a residential and commercial solar heating and cooling program to expand the use of such technologies within the next five years. Requires that a major portion of the research and development costs for such programs be borne by private industry. Limits the Federal funds expended for such purposes to $100,000,000 or 25 percent of the total funds appropriated under the authority of this Act, whichever is less. Title IV: Commercial Implementation - Establishes the following goals for which additional Federal assistance to private industry shall be available: (1) the production of ten percent of all the energy consumed within the United States through the use of solar and geothermal energy within ten years of the enactment of this Act; and (2) an increase in the percentage of such consumption from solar and geothermal sources to 20 percent by the year 2000. Title V: Report - Directs the Assistant Administrator to submit a detailed plan of implementation within 90 days of the enactment of this Act. Requires annual progress reports listing the amount of Federal funds expended on each program. Directs the Congressional Budget Office to report on direct and indirect costs associated with Federal nuclear and fossil fuels subsidization programs. Directs the Budget Office to submit similar reports on cost incentive programs recommended by the Assistant Administrator to encourage the development of solar and geothermal structures for businesses and residencies. Title VI: Conservation - Directs the Assistant Administrator to implement various energy conservation programs designed to offer tax incentives for energy conservation and to assist in the development of improved energy-saving technologies. Establishes as the ultimate objective of such program a ten percent reduction in national energy consumption by 1985. Title VII: Regulation-Information to Congress - Authorizes the Assistant Administrator to prescribe appropriate rules and regulations to carry out the purposes of this Act. Requires that appropriate committees of Congress be fully and currently informed with respect to activities under this Act. Title VIII: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1985 for: (1) solar-thermal and ocean-thermal electric generation facilities; (2) wind-electric generation facilities; (3) biconversion-methane gas generation facilities; (4) geothermal-electric generation facilities; (5) photovoltaic-electric generation facilities and related activities; (6) the residential and commercial structure solar heating and cooling program and related activities; and (7) the energy conservation program outlined in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 June 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Government and people of the United States welcome a new President by the Assembly of Lebonan. Welcomes the President's request for funds to assist in the relief of victims of the armed strife in the nation. Urges the President to declare the willingness of the United States to participate in multilateral assistance programs to help in the reconstruction of Lebanon. Encourages a ceasefire in Lebanon.
United States · United States Congress · 4 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 · 4 June 1976
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the United States reaffirms a sympathetic interest in Italian democracy and democratic institutions. States that the United States is willing to participate in efforts to provide financial assistance to Italy with the assistance of other friends and allies of Italy.
United States · United States Congress · 1 June 1976
Estate and Gift Tax Reform Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide a single unified rate schedule for estate and gift taxes. Establishes progressive rates based on cumulative lifetime transfers and transfers at death. Determines the amount of estate tax by applying the unified rates to such cumulative transfers and then subtracting the taxes payable on lifetime transfers. Provides that for purposes of determining the amount of the gross estate, the amount of gift tax paid with respect to transfers made within three years of death shall be included in the decedent's gross estate. Provides, as a transitional rule, that the lifetime transfers taken into account in determining cumulative transfers at death, for purposes of imposing the estate tax under the unified schedule, shall only include taxable gifts made after December 31, 1976. Repeals the estate and gift tax exemptions. Substitutes for such exemptions a credit against estate and gift taxes in the amount of $29,800. Provides for an additional credit against the estate tax for specified farms and closely held businesses passing to a qualified heir. Defines "qualified heir" as a member of the decedent's family, including his spouse, lineal decendents, parents, and aunts and uncles of the decedent and their decendants. Makes such credit available where the value of a farm or closely held business included in a decedent's gross estate equals or exceeds 65 percent of the value of the gross estate. Stipulates that such credit shall be available only if the farm or closely held business has been owned by the decedent or his family for at least five out of the preceding eight years. Provides that the amount of such credit shall be $25,000 multiplied by a percentage representing the portion of the decedent's estate consisting of the farm or other closely held business. Phases out such credit after the value of the gross estate exceeds $1,000,000. Provides for the recapture of the estate tax benefit of such credit where there is a disposition of the business by the qualified heir to nonfamily members prior to the qualified heir's death or within 25 years of the death of the decedent. Provides for a lien on the qualified interest in a farm or closely held business with respect to which an election of such credit has been made. Increases the estate tax marital deduction to $250,000 or one-half of the decedent's gross estate, whichever is greater. Increases the gift tax marital deduction in the case of lifetime gifts to a spouse. Allows an unlimited marital deduction for the first $100,000 of lifetime gifts made to a spouse and, thereafter, a deduction for one-half of the aggregate lifetime gifts made to a spouse in excess of $200,000. Imposes a tax on the unrealized appreciation of property transferred by a decedent. Provides that the basis of such property shall be its fair market value on December 31, 1976. Allows an election to carry over the decedent's basis in any property instead of having the appreciation taxed. Exempts the first $50,000 of appreciation from taxation. Excludes the appreciation of assets valued at less than $10,000 and which are not held for use in a trade or business or for the production of income from such tax. Allows the deduction of the appreciation tax in computing the value of the taxable estate for estate tax purposes. Exempts from the appreciation tax any property transferred from the decedent if the income tax carries over to the recipient (income in respect of a decedent and survivor annuities). Provides that if an election to carry over the decedent's basis in lieu of paying the appreciation tax is made, the basis of the property is to be increased by the Federal and State estate taxes attributable to the net appreciation in value for the property. Allows the executor of an estate which includes real farm property to value the property as a farm, rather than its fair market value determined on the basis of its highest and best use. Imposes special qualifying conditions for such valuation, including: (1) the farm assets in the decedent's estate including both farm real property and personal property must be at least 50 percent of the decedent's gross estate (reduced by debts and expenses); (2) at least 25 percent of the adjusted value of the gross estate must be qualified farm real property; (3) the real property must pass to a qualified heir; (4) the real property must have been used or held for use as a farm for five of the last eight years prior to the decedent's death; and (5) there must have been material participation in the operation of the farm by the decedent or a member of his family in five years out of the eight years immediately preceding the decedent's death. Provides for recapture of any tax benefits obtained by use of the reduced valuation if, prior to the death of the qualified heir or within 25 years of the death of the decedent, the property is disposed of to nonfamily members or ceases to be used for farming purposes. Provides for a lien on all such real property with respect to which the farm valuation is elected. Provides for a 15-year period for the payment of the estate tax attributable to the decedent's interest in a farm or closely held business, with a deferral of the tax for five years and installment payments over the next ten years. Requires, as a qualification for such deferral and installment treatment, the value of the closely held business or farm in the decedent's estate to be at least 65 percent of the gross estate. Allows discretionary extensions of up to ten years to pay the estate tax for reasonable cause (rather than for "undue hardship" as under present law). Provides for a lien for payment of the deferred taxes attributable to a closely held business or farm. Imposes a tax, in the case of generation skipping transfers under a trust, upon a distribution of the trust assets to a generation skipping heir, or upon the termination of an intervening interest in the trust. Determines the tax by adding the value of the distributed property, or terminated interest, to the heir's taxable transfers and applying the heir's marginal transfer tax rate to the value of such interest. Extends from nine months to 12 months the period after the decedent's death in which an estate tax return must be filed. Requires gift tax returns to be filed for any quarter only when the total cumulative gifts made during the taxable year exceed $25,000, or during the last quarter if the total does not reach $25,000. Provides that if the Internal Revenue Service proposes a deficiency in the estate tax because of a higher valuation of the assets included in the decedent's gross estate, it must disclose to the executor during the settlement process the basis on which the higher valuation was determined.
United States · United States Congress · 27 May 1976
Solar Energy Incentive Act - Allows an individual to take a tax credit, under the Internal Revenue Code, in an amount equal to 25 percent of the qualified solar heating and cooling equipment expenditures incurred by the taxpayer with respect to his principal residence to the extent such expenditures do not exceed $8,000, plus that portion of the qualified State or local real property taxes paid or accrued for the taxable year or accrued for the taxable year attributable to such solar heating and cooling expenditures. Authorizes an individual to take a tax deduction for a part of the acquisition costs of any qualified solar heating and cooling equipment for any residence. Limits such deduction to the lesser of ten percent of the acquisition costs or $800 or $400 for the third year of such acquisition.
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1976
Expresses the support of the House of Representatives for the basic principles and positions which Secretary of State Henry Kissinger expounded in his address at Lusaka, Zambia, on April 27, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1976
International Security Assistance and Arms Exports Control Act - Title I: Military Assistance Program - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961: (1) to authorize the appropriation of $196,700,000 for fiscal year 1976 and $209,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 for military assistance; and (2) to authorize the appropriation of $32,000,000 for fiscal year 1976 and $70,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 for administrative expenses under this Act. Limits the amounts of assistance to be made available during fiscal year 1976 to Greece, Indonesia, Jordan, the Republic of Korea, the Philippines, Thailand, Turkey, and Ethiopia. Restricts the use of such funds to extending military assistance to not more than 20 countries in 1976 and to not more than 12 countries in 1977. Prohibits the increase of such limitations by transfer between accounts or by Presidential determination that authorization of such increase is important to national security. Makes such limitations inapplicable to emergency assistance under special authority of the President to order defense articles and services. Conditions assistance to Turkey upon Presidential certification that Turkey has met certain conditions with respect to Cyprus. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to permit the President to order defense articles from the stocks of the Department of Defense for military assistance to a foreign country on a reimbursable basis upon certification to Congress that certain emergency conditions exist. Restricts the total value of such defense articles and services which may be ordered in a fiscal year. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to prohibit the reservation of any defense article for use by a foreign country unless such transfer has been specially authorized by legislation. Directs that the value of such reserved articles stockpiled in foreign countries may not exceed an amount greater than is specified in security assistance authorizing legislation. Limits the total value of such stockpile to $75,000,000 for fiscal year 1976, $18,750,000 for the period from July 1 to September 30, 1976, and $125,000,000 for fiscal year 1977. Limits the location of such foreign stockpiles to United States military bases and NATO countries. Prohibits the valuation of any such transferred defense article as an excess defense article. Requires the President to report to Congress each new stockpile or addition to stockpile of defense articles valued in excess of $10,000,000 in any fiscal year. Terminates, under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, the operation of United States military assistance advisory groups and missions unless specifically authorized by Congress. Limits to three the number of Armed Forces personnel which the President may assign to the Chief of each United States Diplomatic Mission to perform such functions. Prohibits the performance of such functions by any defense attache assigned to a Diplomatic Mission. Limits to 34 the total number of such missions. Specifies that authority to furnish grant military assistance shall terminate on September 30, 1977, except when such assistance is authorized by Congress to specified countries. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to furnish education and training to military and related civilian personnel of foreign countries. Authorizes the appropriation of $27,000,000 for fiscal year 1976 and $30,200,000 for fiscal year 1977 for such purposes. Repeals restrictions on military assistance for training foreign military students. Makes the Secretary of State responsible for the general supervision of such programs. Makes the Secretary of Defense primarily responsible for such programs. Specifies administrative procedures for furnishing such assistance. Title II: Arms Export Controls - Changes the title of the "Foreign Military Sales Act" to the "Arms Export Control Act. Declares it the policy of the United States to encourage control and reduction of arms traffic. Requires the President to review the arms sales policies and practices of the United States. Amends the Foreign Military Sales Act to limit the authority of the President to transfer defense articles sold under this Act permitting Congressional disapproval except in emergency situations. Amends such Act to require that payment for articles or services sold from Defense stocks be made for the actual value, except that the cost of articles intended to be replaced shall be the production cost less depreciation. Permits the President to extend an additional time for payment in certain circumstances. Sets forth procedures for billing, interest charges, time for payment, charges for administrative services, use of equipment, and nonrecurring research costs. Requires that any contract under such Act be prepared in such a way as to be made available for public inspection to the fullest extent possible. Permits the President to enter into NATO standardization agreements for training if the financial principles of such agreements are based on reciprocity. Stipulates that the direct costs of such agreements shall be reimbursable. Amends the Foreign Military Sales Act to require that sales of defense articles and services which could have significant adverse effect on the combat readiness of the United States be kept to an absolute minimum. Sets forth procedures for such sales. Amends the Foreign Military Sales Act to require imposition of interest charges on amounts by which a country or international organization is in arrears pursuant to the procurement of defense articles or services from private industry. Permits the President to issue letters of offer for such articles or services which require payment 120 days after the date of billing, if: (1) it is in the national interest; (2) the emergency requirements of the purchaser exceed fund availability; and (3) a special emergency request is made to Congress for additional funds to finance such purchases. Extends from ten to 12 years the maximum payment period for credit sales after the delivery or rendering of defense articles or services under the Foreign Military Sales Act. Amends such Act to require the President to transmit to Congress a detailed annual estimate of military sales, including an explanation of the foreign policy and national security considerations involved in such sales, and an arms control impact statement for each purchasing country. Requires the President to make every effort to submit such information in an unclassified form. Amends the Foreign Military Sales Act to authorize the appropriation of $1,039,000,000 for fiscal year 1976 and $680,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, and to establish a ceiling of $2,374,700,000 on the aggregate amount of military sales credits that may be extended or loans that may be guaranteed for fiscal year 1976 and a ceiling of $2,059,600,000 for fiscal year 1977. Authorizes not less than $1,500,000,000 of such sums for Israel for fiscal year 1976 and $1,000,000,000 for fiscal year 1977. Limits to $100,000,000 the aggregate acquisition cost to the United States of excess defense articles ordered by the President after fiscal year 1976 for delivery to foreign countries or international organizations, exclusive of ships and their supplies. Amends the Foreign Military Sales Act to require the President to transmit to Congress: (1) quarterly reports which detail commercial and governmental military export transactions; (2) reports regarding any letter of offer to sell any defense articles or services for $25,000,000 or more or any major defense equipment for $7,000,000 or more. Permits Congressional disapproval of such letters of offer. Amends the Foreign Military Sales Act to authorize the President to control arms exports and imports and to make available foreign policy guidance to persons in the United States involved in such activities. Requires that decisions regarding the issuance of export licenses be made in coordination with the Director of the United States Arms Control and Disarmament Agency. Requires any person, other than an officer or employee of the United States acting in an official capacity, who manufactures, exports, or imports such articles or services, to register with the appropriate agency. Prohibits the export or import of defense articles or services without a license therefor. Prohibits issuance of such license for major defense equipment over $25,000,000 or more to any non-NATO country unless sold under this Act. Imposes a fine of not more than $10,000 or imprisonment for not more than two years, or both, for willful violation of this Act or regulations under this Act, or for willful misstatement or omission pursuant to required reports or applications. Declares this Act applicable to the Canal Zone. Repeals the munitions control regulations and penalties of the Mutual Security Act of 1954. Places an annual ceiling of $9,000,000,000 on arms sales in any fiscal year, except for emergency conditions. Imposes a fine of $25,000 or imprisonment of not more than two years or both for exportation of any defense article or service without a license or approval with intent to avoid a limitation or prohibition imposed under such ceiling. Amends the Foreign Military Sales Act to permit: (1) revocation, suspension, or amendment of arms export licenses by the Secretary of State; and (2) cancellation of a Government contract for sale of defense articles or services by the United States if national security so requires. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to refund moneys received pursuant to such cancelled contracts or to pay damages and costs arising from such cancellation. Requires reimbursement of any department or agency of the United States Government for administrative expenses incurred in carrying out functions under the Act which are primarily for the benefit of any foreign country. Redefines "defense articles," "defense service," "training," "major defense equipment," and "defense articles and services" for the purposes of such Act. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to require that the Annual Foreign Assistance Report include specified information with respect to foreign military sales and military education and training. Requires the President to transmit to Congress not later than February 28, 1977, a report regarding all sales of excess defense articles made under this Act between July 1, 1976, and December 31, 1976. Title III: General Limitations - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to requires that the request for security assistance programs for each fiscal year be accompanied by a statement from the President on the status of human rights in each country included in such program. Prohibits such assistance to any country which engages in a consistent pattern of gross violation of internationally recognized human rights, except when extraordinary circumstances exist which necessitate continuation of such assistance or the national interest of the United States requires such assistance. Prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, religion, national origin, or sex in the furnishing of defense articles, under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and the Foreign Military Sales Act. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to prohibit all assistance under this Act to countries which grant sanctuary to international terrorists, except upon a Presidential determination that national security requires otherwise. Title IV: Provisions Relating to Specific Regions or Countries - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to declare it the sense of Congress that the United States shall maintain a flexible policy toward the Middle East. Declares that the "joint resolution to implement the United States proposal for the early-warning system in the Sinai" does not constitute Congressional approval of any commitment or agreement upon which any other nation or organization may rely. Authorizes the appropriation of $40,000,000 to aid Cypriot refugees, under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, for fiscal year 1976. Amends such Act to permit the President to waive restrictions on assistance or aid to Turkey to enable Turkey to fulfill defense responsibilities to NATO. Prohibits any assistance to military of paramilitary operations in Angolla, except under specified conditions. States that Congress views Soviet intervention in Angola and support of Cuban armed forces in Angola as inconsistent with detente and other international agreements. Declares that such intervention should be taken into account in United States foreign policy planning and negotiations. Prohibits military assistance, sales, or sales credits to Chile. Amends the International Development and Food Assistance Act of 1975 to limit the amount of economic assistance which may be made available to Chile in fiscal year 1976 and from July 1, 1976, to September 30, 1977. Declares it the sense of Congress that the President seek an agreement with the Soviet Union with respect to limiting military forces in the Indian Ocean. Calls upon the President to express concern for United States citizens arrested in Mexico and requires the Secretary of State to submit periodic reports to Congress regarding the status of such citizens and their treatment. Declares it the sense of Congress that the President evaluate the emergency food needs of Portugal and take action to alleviate such emergency. Deplores the civil strife in Lebanon, and requests the President to seek an end to such discord and to preserve the traditional friendly attitude of Lebanon toward the United States. Requires the President to submit to Congress a report on security and self-sufficiency efforts in Korea. Limits the amount of military aid to Korea to $290,000,000 between July 1, 1975 and September 30, 1977. Repeals Indochina assistance under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and terminates regulations, contracts, and agreements thereof. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961: (1) to make available $15,000,000 for housing reconstruction in Lebanon; (2) to authorize the appropriation of $25,000,000 for relief and rehabilitation of earthquake victims in Italy; and (3) to authorize the appropriation of $20,000,000 for relief and rehabilitation of refugees and other needy people in Lebanon. Title V: Miscellaneous Authorizations - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize for security supporting assistance, appropriations of $1,766,200,000 for fiscal year 1976 and $1,801,500,000 for fiscal year 1977. Sets forth minimum appropriations for Greece, and Egypt. Authorizes the appropriation of $50,000,000 for fiscal year 1976 and $35,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 for the Middle East Special Requirements Fund. Requires that such funds be utlized for specified purposes relating to the early-warning system in the Sinai, the Agreement of October 10, 1975, and the deficit of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Middle East. Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1976 and $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 for the contingency fund of the President for supporting assistance, under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. Authorizes the appropriation of $40,000,000 for fiscal year 1976 and $34,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 for international narcotics control, under specified conditions. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the appropriation of $1,000,000 for fiscal year 1976 and $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 for the International Atomic Energy Agency for strengthening safeguards and inspections of nuclear missile facilities and materials. Authorizes interim quarter appropriations for the period from July 1 to September 30, 1976, in amounts equal to one- fourth of the amounts authorized for fiscal year 1976. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for fiscal year 1977 to carry out agreements for the use of military facilities in Spain, Greece, or Turkey by United States Armed Forces. Title VI: Miscellaneous Provisions - Establishes a procedure for expediting consideration by the Senate of resolutions of disapproval of certain Presidential certifications under the Arms Export Control Act. Directs the Administrator of the Agency for International Development to report every six months to Congress on the extent small businesses have participated in procurements under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to specify the compensation payable to consultants hired by the Agency for International Development. Amends the Foreign Military Sales Act to require that reports on military exports include data on political contributions, gifts, commissions, and fees paid or offered in connection with sales of military equipment. Requires that civilian contract personnel be used to the maximum extent possible to perform defense services sold under the Foreign Military Sales Act. Requires the President to submit to Congress a report with respect to any Presidential determination that officials of a foreign country receiving international security assistance have: (1) received illegal or improper payments from a United States corporation in return for a contract to purchase defense articles or services; or (2) extorted, or attempted to extort, money or other things of value in return for actions by officials of that country that permit a United States citizen or corporation to conduct business in such country. Requires that such report recommend termination or continuation of international security assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1976
District of Columbia Retirement Reform Act - Title I: Financing of Retirement Benefits - Establishes the District of Columbia Retirement Board to exercise exclusive authority to manage and control the Funds established by this Act. Details provisions relating to the Boards' composition, the election and terms of office of Board members, the procedures to be followed by the Board, and the financing of the Boards' operations. Establishes the District of Columbia Policemen and Firemen's Retirement Fund into which shall be deposited (1) amounts withheld from the salaries of, and amounts deposited by members of the Metropolitan Police, the Fire Department of the District of Columbia, the United States Park Police, the Executive Protective Service, and the United States Secret Service, pursuant to the Policemen and Firemen's Retirement and Disability Act, (2) amounts appropriated to the Fund pursuant to this Act, and (3) amounts made as return on investment of the assets of the Fund. Establishes the District of Columbia Teachers' Retirement Fund into which shall be deposited (1) amounts withheld from the salaries of, and amounts deposited by, each teacher in the public schools of the District of Columbia for such teacher's retirement account, (2) amounts appropriated to the Fund pursuant to this Act, and (3) amounts made as return on investment of the assets of the Fund. Establishes the District of Columbia Judges' Retirement Fund into which shall be deposited (1) amounts withheld from the salaries of, and amounts deposited by, judges of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals and the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, (2) amounts appropriated to the Fund pursuant to this Act, and (3) amounts made as return on investment of the assets of the Fund. Requires that the assets of each Fund established by this Act be kept separate from other moneys, but not necessarily kept separate from one another if the Board determines that commingling of such assets is advisable for investment purposes. Requires the Board to maintain a cash reserve for the funds sufficient to meet current annuity and disability benefit outlays. Prohibits the investment of assets of the Funds in obligations issued or guaranteed in whole or in part by the government of the District of Columbia or in obligations secured by real property in the District of Columbia. Directs the Baord to engage an enrolled actuary to periodically determine (1) the amount required to be deposited in each Fund annually in perpetuity in order to meet the cost of annuities and other retirement and disability benefits payable in perpetuity from the fund less the amount of employee contributions to the Fund, and (2) the amount required to meet the obligations of each Fund for the next fiscal year less employee contributions for such period. Sets forth formulas to determine annual Federal payments and annual District of Columbia payments to each Fund. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums from the revenues of the United States and from amounts in the United States Treasury credited to the District of Columbia for Federal and District of Columbia contributions to each fund, respectively. Directs the Board to publish annual reports with respect to each retirement program and corresponding Fund to which this Act applies. Requires that each such report include (1) a financial statement containing a statement of Fund assets and liabilities, a statement of changes in net assets available for benefits under the retirement program, and other specified information; (2) an opinion by an independent public accountant as to whether such financial statement is presented in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles; (3) an actuarial statement containing specified information relating to the Fund and retirement program; (4) information relating to the number of employees covered by the retirement program, persons receiving compensation from the Fund, and specified changes to the Funds' operation; and (5) a report from each insurance company or similar organization from which program benefits are purchased or which guarantees such benefits. Directs the Board to prepare summary retirement program descriptions to be supplied to each participant in, and beneficiary under, each retirement program to which this Act applies. Requires that annual reports and copies of summary retirement program descriptions be filed with the mayor of the District of Columbia, the District of Columbia Council, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the President pro tempore of the Senate. Empowers the Mayor, the Council, or either House of Congress to reject any filing upon making specified findings. Suspends Federal contributions to any Fund with respect to which a filing is rejected or not timely filing has been made pending an acceptable filing. Requires that copies of such reports and descriptions be made available for public inspection. Authorizes the Board to designate one or more persons to exercise fiduciary responsibilities with respect to Funds established by this Act but places with the Board fiduciary responsibility for the oversight of any person so designated. Lists standards and guidelines to be followed by fiduciaries in the discharge of their duties. Specifies circumstances under which a fiduciary shall be liable for a breach of fiduciary duty by another fiduciary. Prohibits a fiduciary from causing the Fund to engage in specified transactions with interested parties or with itself. Deems void any provision in an agreement or instrument which purports to relieve a fiduciary from responsibility or liability. Permits the Board, fiduciaries, and groups of retirement program participants to purchase breach insurance to cover liability or losses arising from a breach of fiduciary duty. Prohibits any person convicted of specified crimes from serving as an administrator, fiduciary, counsel, or employee of, or as a consultant to, any Fund established by this Act within five years of any such conviction or release from imprisonment, unless the Board of Parole of the United States determines that such person's service with the Fund would not be contrary to the purposes of this Act. Creates civil causes of action for the benefit of specified plantiffs to enforce the provisions of this Act. Specifies time limits within which civil actions grounded on a breach of fiduciary duty must be brought. Title II: Changes In Retirement Benefits - Sets the salary base period for computation of annuities with respect to participants in the District of Columbia Policemen and Firemen's Retirement Fund hired at least 90 days subsequent to the enactment of this Act at the highest annual rate resulting from averaging such participant's rates of basic salary for any 36 months rather than for any 12 months of consecutive service. Redefines an optional basis for survivors annuities by allowing for cost-of-living adjustments in a retired participants' average pay. Sets forth regulations with respect to voluntary retirement, disability retirement, and separation other than by retirement, and the amount of annuities for each. Authorizes cost-of-living adjustments in annuities payable from the District of Columbia Policemen and Fireman's Retirement Fund. Eliminates the one percent increase added on to cost-of-living increases in the annuities of District of Columbia public School teachers and judges.
United States · United States Congress · 14 April 1976
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exempt farmers or farm operators from the highway use tax on heavy trucks if the farmer: (1) uses such vehicle primarily for farming purposes, and (2) is not a corporation with gross receipts in excess of $950,000 or with gross receipts more than 50 percent of which are from activities other than farming.
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Stipulates that no rule or regulation which is issued pursuant to the Food Stamp Act of 1964 and which is to become effective after February 13, 1976, shall become effective until the enactment of legislation after the date of enactment of this Act with respect to the eligibility and purchase requirements of persons receiving benefits under the Food Stamp Act of 1964.
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Establishes an 11 member Commission on the Humane Treatment of Animals to study the treatment of animals. Requires that the membership include zoologists, veterinarians, and representatives from humane societies. Requires the Commission to determine if animals are caused needless pain or suffering as a result of their treatment: (1) on farms; (2) in zoos; (3) in laboratory experimentation; and (4) in other situations. Excludes the study or treatment of animals occurring in connection with the exercise of any religion. Directs the Commission to report its findings to the Congress and the President within two years after its last member is appointed. Terminates the Commission 60 days after it submits its final report. Authorizes appropriaions of $750,000 per year to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Prohibits any business deduction, under the Internal Revenue Code, relating to expenses paid or incurred for the transportation of any person by commercial airplane or railroad in excess of an amount which is equal to the retail price of a coach class fare ticket on such airline or railroad, unless the use of first class accomodations was necessitated by the circumstances of the taxpayer's business activities or by a disability or handicap or because coach tickets were unavailable.
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Creates a body corporate for charitable purposes to be known as the National Opportunities Camps. States the purposes of such corporation, including to assist in the prevention of delinquency by establishing and operating camps for disadvantaged children and to provide financial assistance to enable disadvantaged children to attend camps other than those operated by the corporation. Sets forth the powers of such corporation. Forbids the corporation from making loans to its officers, directors, or employees. Prohibits such corporation from engaging in political activity. Requires the corporation to keep correct and complete books and records which shall be available for inspection by any member entitled to vote, or the attorney or agent of such member. Grants to such corporation the exclusive right to the name "National Opportunities Camps."
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1976
Authorizes under the Federal Civil Defense Act of 1950 the use of Federal civil defense funds by local civil defense agencies for natural disaster relief. Increases the Federal contribution for travel expenses and per diem allowances for students in civil defense training programs and increases the Federal financial contribution to States for civil defense personnel and administrative expenses. Increases the authorization for appropriations under such Act for travel expenses, for personal equipment for State and local workers,and for personnel and administrative expenses.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1976
Establishes in the House of Representatives a select committee to conduct a full investigation and study into the management of water releases by New York City from its reservoirs located in the Catskill Mountains into the Neversink-Delaware River system. Specifies that the study shall include an examination of the impact of such releases: (1) on the environment; (2) on aquatic life in the river system;(3) on recreational use of the system; (4) on the health of individuals living near the system or using the waters of the system; and (5) on energy generated from water diverted from the system.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1976
Local Public Works Capital Development and Investment Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Economic Development Administration, to make grants to any State or local government for local public works projects, including but not limited to: (1) those public works projects of State and local governments for which Federal financial assistance is authorized under provisions of law other than this Act; and (2) the architectural design, engineering, and related planning of local public works projects. Stipulates that the Federal share of any project for which a grant is made under this Act shall be 100 percent of the cost of such project. Authorizes the Secretary to make an additional grant for the purpose of increasing to 100 percent the Federal contribution to a public works project for which Federal financial assistance is authorized under provisions of law other than this Act. Stipulates that no such grants shall be made for any project which has as its principal purpose the channelization, damming, dredging, or diversion of a natural watercourse, or the enlargement of any canal other than a canal designated as a historic site. Directs the Secretary to prescribe rules, regulations, and procedures necessary to carry out this Act. Lists factors that the Secretary shall consider in accordance with the relative needs of the various sections of the country, with priority consideration to those areas where unemployment exceeds the national average. Stipulates that not less than one-half of one percent nor more than ten percent of all amounts authorized under this title shall be allocated for local public works projects within any one State. Authorizes the appropriation of $2,500,000,000 through fiscal year 1977 in order to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 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
Requires that whoever uses or carries a firearm during the commission of a felony that may be prosecuted in a Federal court and that whoever is convicted by a State court of using or carrying a firearm transported in, or affecting, interstate or foreign commerce during the commission of a felony be sentenced to a term of imprisonment of not less than five nor more than ten years. Requires in the case of a subsequent such conviction that the felon be sentenced to a term of imprisonment for any term of years, but not less than ten years, or to life imprisonment. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 924(c))
United States · United States Congress · 1 April 1976
Guam Shipyard Repair Facility Act - Requires the Guam shipyard facility to function at the maximum productive capacity at which it has operated in the past. Directs the Secretary of the Navy to study the necessity of maintaining shipyard repair facilities in the western Pacific not dependent on foreign treaties or foreign workers, and to report to the Armed Services Committees of the House and Senate within six months of the date of enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 1 April 1976
Creates a body corporate for charitable purposes to be known as the National Opportunities Camps. States the purposes of such corporation, including to assist in the prevention of delinquency by establishing and operating camps for disadvantaged children and to provide financial assistance to enable disadvantaged children to attend camps other than those operated by the corporation. Sets forth the powers of such corporation. Forbids the corporation from making loans to its officers, directors, or employees. Prohibits such corporation from engaging in political activity. Requires the corporation to keep correct and complete books and records which shall be available for inspection by any member entitled to vote, or the attorney or agent of such member. Grants to such corporation the exclusive right to the name "National Opportunities Camps."
United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1976
Creates a body corporate for charitable purposes to be known as the National Opportunities Camps. States the purposes of such corporation, including to assist in the prevention of delinquency by operating camps for disadvantaged children and to provide financial assistance to enable disadvantaged children to attend camps other than those operated by the corporation. Sets forth the powers of such corporation. Forbids the corporation from making loans to its officers, directors, or employees. Prohibits such corporation from engaging in political activity. Requires the corporation to keep correct and complete books and records which shall be available for inspection by any member entitled to vote, or the attorney or agent of such member. Grants to such corporation the sole and exclusive right to the name "National Conditioning Camps." Requires the corporation to submit annual reports to Congress on its activities.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Directs the President to express the request of the United States Government that the Government of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics provide Valentyn Moroz with the opportunity to accept the invitation of Harvard University to join the Harvard Ukrainian Research Institute for the 1976-77 academic year.
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1976
Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act - Title I: Statement of Findings and Policy - Declares that most of the nation's coal reserve can only be mined by underground methods. Lists the purposes of this Act, including to establish a nationwide program to prevent the adverse effects to society and the environment from surface coal mining. Title II: Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement - Establishes in the Interior Department the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement with a Director appointed by the President. States that such Office shall administer the programs required by this Act and assist the States in development of State programs for surface coal mining and reclamation. States that the Office shall be considered an independent Federal regulatory body. Title III: State Mining and Mineral Resources Research Institute - Authorizes appropriation to the Secretary of the Interior of sums adequate to provide for each participating State $200,000 for fiscal year 1975, $300,000 for fiscal year 1976, and $400,000 for each fiscal year thereafter for five years, to assist the States in carrying on the work of a competent and qualified mining and mineral resources research institute or center at the school of mines of one public college or university of the State. Requires such monies to be matched dollar- for-dollar by the States. Authorizes appropriations of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, such sum to be increased by $2,000,000 each fiscal year for six years thereafter, for specific projects in mining and mineral research in research institutes. Directs the Secretary to establish a center for cataloging current and projected scientific research in mining and mineral resources. Requires the Secretary to appoint an Advisory Committee on Mining and Mineral Research to advise him on all matters concerning mining and mineral resources research. Title IV: Abandoned Mine Reclamation - Creates the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund in the Treasury. Requires operators of coal mines to pay into the fund quarterly fees of $.35 per ton of coal produced by surface mining and $.15 per ton of coal produced by underground mining, or ten percent of the value of the coal in the mine, whichever is less. Authorizes use of money in the Fund for acquisition and reclamation of abandoned and unreclaimed mined lands and for acquisitions and fillings of voids and sealing of tunnels and entryways in abandoned mines. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to enter into agreements with landowners, including owners of water rights, under which such landowners shall furnish a conservation and development plan and shall effect such plan in return for financial assistance from the Secretary of Agriculture of up to 80 percent of the cost of such a reclamation effort. Encourages States to acquire abandoned and unreclaimed land, and to transfer it to the Secretary for reclamation, and authorizes matching grants for such purpose, up to 90 percent of the land price. Allows resale of reclaimed land by public bidding, and allows local public participation in determining the use of reclaimed land. Title V: Control of the Environmental Impacts of Surface Coal Mining - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to publish, within 180 days of the enactment of this Act, regulations which establish a permanent regulatory procedure and performance standards for surface coal mining and reclamation standards. Requires the Secretary to obtain the concurrence of the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency with respect to regulations concerned with air or water quality standards. Establishes a permit program to require mining operators to comply with environmental protection standards. Allows State control over surface mining permits if certain requirements are met. Authorizes the implementation of a Federal program if States fail to Act. Imposes the following general environmental performance standards on surface mining operations as a condition of the issuance of a permit under this Act: (1) restoration of the land affected to a prior use, consistent with public health and safety; (2) restoration to the original contour of the land and backfilling, grading, and compacting the excess overburden and other waste materials to attain the lowest grade; (3) removal and segregation of topsoil in a separate layer where it is able to support vegetation; (4) minimize disturbances to the hydrologic balance at the minesite and surrounding areas by eliminating or reducing toxic drainage, siltation, and contamination problems; (5) conformity with standards for the design and location of coal mine waste piles; and (6) establishment of a diverse, effective, and permanent vegetation on regraded areas. Establishes additional requirements for steep-slope surface mining operations. Defines the term "steep slope" to include any slope above 20 degrees or lesser slopes as may be defined by the regulatory authority. Permits State laws and regulations that are more stringent than those set forth pursuant to this Act. Requires permit applications to describe the method of mining and equipment proposed to be used, to describe by maps the land to be affected, and to contain a statement of results of test borings or core samplings of the affected land. Stipulates that permits must be accompanied by a mining and reclamation plan which shall include a description of present uses of the land, steps to be taken to prevent environmental damage, and a description of the reclamation activities. Requires the posting of performance bonds and possession of liability insurance by applicants for permits. Requires operators to obtain a permit prior to conducting any coal exploration operations which substantially disturb the natural land surface. Directs the Secretary to promulgate rules and regulations directed at the surface effects of underground mining. Directs and authorizes inspection of surface coal mining and reclamation to determine compliance with this Act and regulations. Provides requirements for recordkeeping and submittal and monitoring by mine operators. Requires surprise inspections by regulatory agencies not less than once a month. Imposes civil penalties for violation of this Act or regulations under it. Establishes procedures for citizen suits and judicial review of actions under this Act. Establishes conditions under which mine operators may request a release of all or part of the performance bond. Requires public notice and hearings upon applications for such releases. Requires States to establish, as a condition of assuming primary regulatory control, a planning process designed to identify lands unsuitable for surface coal mining. Requires designation of lands as unsuitable if it can be shown that reclamation pursuant to the requirements of the Act is not feasible. Authorizes designation of lands as unsuitable where operations mining will: (1) be incompatible with land use plans or programs; (2) affect fragile or historic lands of significant historic, scientific or esthetic value; (3) affect renewable land resources with an impact on long-range food and water supply; and (4) increase a significant hazard to life and property, including the possibility of flood and earthquake damage. Prohibits surface coal mining operation on certain Federal lands, or within 100 feet of a public road or within 300 feet of a building or dwelling, unless the consent of the affected public or private interest is obtained. Requires implementation of a Federal lands program applicable to all surface mining and reclamation operations on Federal land. Requires separate regulations for programs for special bituminous coal surface mines that meet specified criteria, and for anthracite coal surface mines which are regulated by environmental protection standards of the States. Title VI: Designation of Lands Unsuitable for Noncoal Mining - Allows the Secretary to designate Federal lands unsuitable for mining materials other than coal, if they are predominantly urban or suburban in character or if such mining operations would have an adverse impact on lands used primarily for residential and related purposes. Title VII: Administrative and Miscellaneous Provisions - Defines the terms used in this Act. Prohibits discrimination against employees for filing suit under this Act and for testifying in a proceeding under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to make annual grants to the States to assist the States in developing, administering, and enforcing State programs under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to provide technical assistance and training, and assistance in preparing and maintaining a continuing inventory of information on surface coal mining and reclamation projects. Requires the Secretary to submit an annual report to the President and the Congress. Directs the Secretary to contract with the National Academy of Sciences-National Academy of Engineering for a study of surface coal mining conditions in Alaska in order to determine which, if any, of the provisions of this Act should be modified with respect to such operations in Alaska. Directs the Chairman of the Council on Environmental Quality to contract with the National Academy of Sciences-National Academy of Engineering and other groups for a study of the technology for surface and open-pit mining and reclamation for minerals other than coal designed to assist in the development of regulation for such operations. Directs the Secretary to consult with Indian tribes in studying the regulation of surface mining on Indian lands. Requires all surface coal mining operations on Indian lands to comply with requirements at least as stringent as specified provisions in this Act within 30 months from the enactment of this Act. Authorizes the approriation of the following sums to carry out this Act: (1) for various contract authority, $10,000,000 immediately and $10,000,000 for the next two fiscal years; (2) for administrative and other purposes, $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $20,000,000 for fiscal years 1978 and 1979, and $30,000,000 for fiscal years thereafter; and (3) for research and demonstration projects of alternative coal mining technologies, $35,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, and for the next four years.
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1976
Terminates the authorization for the Tocks Island Reservoir project in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Requires that property acquired by the Secretary of the Army pursuant to such authorization be transferred to the Secretary of the Interior for management by the National Park Service. Establishes criteria for administration of such lands by the Secretary. Directs the Secretaty to relocate United States Highway Numbered 209 as part of the authorization for the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in order to reduce the environmental impact on the area.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1976
Establishes in the House of Representatives the Select Committee on Nuclear Proliferation and Nuclear Export Policy. Directs the Committee to conduct a full and complete study of: (1) the threat of nuclear proliferation; (2) the present policies of the United States concerning nuclear proliferation; (3) the decisionmaking process within the executive branch on nuclear export policies; and (4) any related areas which the committee deems necessary to investigate and study to discharge its responsibilities. Directs the committee to report to the House as soon as practicable the results of its investigation and study, together with such recommendations as it deems advisable.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1976
Amends the Peace Corps Act to authorize the appropriation of sums not in excess of $67,155,000 for fiscal year 1977 and such sums as may be necessary for fiscal year 1978 to carry out the purposes of such Act. Authorizes, under such Act, in addition to amounts authorized for fiscal year 1976, the appropriation of sums not in excess of $1,000,000 for increases in salary, pay, retirement, or other employee benefits for fiscal year 1976. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for such purposes for fiscal years 1977 and 1978. Amends such Act to increases the readjustment allowance for volunteers.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 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 · 26 February 1976
Amends the District of Columbia Medical and Dental Manpower Act to extend through fiscal year 1977 the authority of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to nonprofit medical and dental schools.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1976
Franchising Practices Reform Act - Requires a franchisor to notify a franchisee at least 90 days in advance of the franchisor's intention to terminate the franchise, and the franchisor's reasons for terminating. Prohibits a franchisor from cancelling a franchise unless the franchisee has acted in bad faith, or has violated a material requirement of the franchise, or the franchisor is effecting a market area withdrawal. Prohibits a franchisor from failing to review a franchise except for the reasons stated above or the franchisor has a legitimate business reason for failing to renew. Makes any franchisor that has violated the requirements of this Act civilly liable to the aggrieved franchisee.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1976
Provides for the disposal under the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 of surplus real property at not less than 25 percent of fair market value to States and their political subdivisions, agencies, and instrumentalities for economic development purposes where such areas meet special needs arising from actual or threatened severe unemployment arising from the closing of Federal facilities.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1976
Regional Presidential Primaries Act - Declares the finding of the Congress that it is necessary to regulate the process for selecting candidates to the office of President. Prohibits any State from conducting a Presidential primary election except in accordance with the provisions of this Act. Establishes six regional primaries to be held in each Presidential election year. Sets the dates for such primaries. Sets requirements for voter eligibility in the primaries conducted under this Act. Authorizes the Attorney General to bring a civil suit in United States district courts in those instances where he has reason to believe that a State is holding a primary in violation of this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of necessary funds to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 February 1976
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exempt farmers from the highway use tax on heavy trucks if the farmer: (1) uses such vehicle primarily for farming purposes; and (2) is not a corporation with gross recipts in excess of $950,000 or with gross receipts more than 50 percent of which are from activities other than farming.
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1976
Increases, under the Social Security Act and the Internal Revenue Code, the ceiling on the amount of earnings which may be counted for social security benefit and tax purposes. Sets forth proposed ceilings of $15,300 for calendar year 1976, $22,200 for calendar year 1977, $26,100 for calendar year 1978, and $28,500 for calendar year 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1976
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a limited tax credit in an amount of $250 for each individual who is at least 61 years of age before the beginning of the taxable year, whose principal place of abode during the taxable year is the principal residence of the taxpayer, and who is not a lodger with the taxpayer.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1976
Regulatory Reform Act - States Congress' finding that Government economic regulation has become a burden to American business, consumers, and the economy. Requires the President to submit at least once a year for five years a plan to eliminate regulation which has led to inflationary consumer prices or a reduction of competition. Directs that each plan establish more efficient organizational and administrative forms for the regulation of commerce and include provisions necessary to modify or abolish existing agencies and functions so as to eliminate overlapping regulatory jurisdictions and anti-competitive regulations. Requires that such reformation plan be directed toward regulation in the areas of: (1) banking and finance; (2) energy and environment; (3) commerce, and transportation; (4) food, health, safety, and trade practices; and (5) labor, housing, and small business. Defines terms used in this Act. Provides for Congressional review of such plan. Provides that if Congress fails to pass any regulatory reform legislation by a specified date after the President submits his plan to the Congress, such plan shall become effective as of a specified date and all rules of any agency described in such plan shall be of no force or effect.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1976
Authorizes and requests the President to issue a proclamation: (1) designating the week beginning April 4, 1976, as "National Rural Health Week"; (2) urging an intensification in efforts to disseminate health information; and (3) urging all persons concerned with the rural population to consider ways in which they can promote improved health services for rural America.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the people of Angola should be allowed to determine their own political future without foreign interference. Expresses support for efforts by the Organization of African Unity to achieve a settlement of the conflict in Angola. Calls upon all countries to terminate military assistance to any group in Angola. States that the President should do his utmost to seek an agreement among the various parties involved in hostilities or in the support of such hostilities in Angola to terminate such hostilities. Directs the President to refrain from providing assistance of any kind, for military activities in Angola, until specifically approved by Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 19 December 1975
National Commission on Victimless Crimes Act - Establishes the National Commission on Victimless Crimes. Sets forth the duties of the Commission. States that the Commission shall make an inquiry into the effect of Federal, State, and local laws with respect to victimless crimes on law enforcement, court and correctional systems, and private citizens. Directs the Commission to conduct a survey of Federal, State, and local laws with respect to victimless crimes and the enforcement of such laws (including the financial cost of enforcement) and to consider the following: (1) whether such laws should be amended or repealed; (2) the manner in which such laws should be enforced; (3) whether some problems covered by such laws may better be dealt with outside of the criminal justice system; and (4) whether some problems covered by such laws may better be dealt with through an administrative regulatory apparatus. States that the Commission shall be composed of 15 members who shall be appointed by the President. States that the membership shall include at least one representative from each of the following categories: law enforcement officials, State judges, State prosecutors, defense attorneys (including public defenders), corrections officials, State legislators, Members of Congress, an official of the United States Department of Justice, and members of relevant citizen groups. Sets forth the powers of the Commission, including the power to conduct hearings and to obtain official data from any United States government department or agency. Directs the Commission to submit a final report to the President and to Congress within 18 months after all members have been appointed. States that the Commission shall cease to exist 15 days after submission of the report.
United States · United States Congress · 8 December 1975
Requires States to permit motor vehicle drivers to turn right on red lights as a condition for receiving Federal funds under the Federal-Aid Highway Act.
United States · United States Congress · 2 December 1975
Equal Opportunity for Displaced Homemakers Act - Requires the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish a multipurpose service program for displaced homemakers, including: (1) job counseling and training services; (2) health education and counseling services; (3) financial management services; (4) educational services; and (5) outreach and information services with respect to Federal employment, education, health, and unemployment assistance programs. Defines a "displaced homemaker" as an individual who: (1) has worked in the home, providing unpaid household services for family members; (2) is not gainfully employed; (3) has had, or would have, difficulty in securing employment; and (4) has been dependent on the income of another family member but is no longer supported by such income, or has been dependent on Federal assistance but is no longer eligible for such assistance. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of and appropriate procedures for allowing displaced homemakers to participate in specified Federal programs. Requires the Secretary to submit a final report to each House of the Congress not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act. Authorizes appropriations of sums necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
![Official portrait of Rep. Meyner, Helen S. [D-NJ-13]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/m000685_200.jpg)