United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1977
Designates service as a Member of the Women's Air Forces Service Pilots as active duty for the purposes of all laws administered by the Veterans' Administration.
United States · United States Congress · 7 September 1977
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to permit the National Committee of American Airmen Rescued by General Draza Mihailovich to construct and maintain, with private funds, a monument to him.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from taxable unrelated income, income derived by tax exempt colleges, universities and their wholly owned corporations from the broadcasting of sporting events.
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1977
National Weather Services Act - Declares that the Secretary of Commerce, utilizing the National Weather Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, shall be responsible for implementing and coordinating Federal weather-related activities, including specialized forecasting and the issuance of warnings for specified weather conditions. Authorizes the Secretary to construct and maintain weather services facilities and equipment, purchase and operate environmental satellite systems, coordinate research activities, engage in joint research with public, private or international groups, and establish an equipment replacement fund. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1977
Amends the Airport and Airway Development Act of 1970 to direct the Secretary of Transportation to obligate for fiscal years 1979 and 1980 not less than $30,000,000 of the funds authorized to be appropriated under such Act for improving air navigation facilities for the purpose of establishing no fewer than 45 automated flight service stations. Defines "flight service stations" as air navigation facilities used to assist pilots in the safe conduct of flight.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1977
Directs the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences to conduct a one year review of toxic and carcinogenic substances including: (1) current capabilities to predict the effect on humans of substances found to induce cancer in animals; (2) the benefits and risks to the public of such substances; (3) the validity of benefit-risk analysis of such substances; and (4) the relationship of Federal regulatory policies concerning the use of such substances for food and for non-food purposes. Directs the Institute to report its findings and legislative and administrative recommendations to the Congress and the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare within one year. Authorizes the continued use of saccharin for eighteen months. Prohibits the Secretary from taking any action under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to prohibit or restrict the sale or distribution (other than requiring labeling) of saccharin.
United States · United States Congress · 10 June 1977
Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to prohibit the admission of any immigrant unless a United States citizen has agreed in writing to sponsor and to provide financial support to such immigrant for five years after entering the United States. Makes such agreement enforceable against the sponsor in the United States district court for the district in which the sponsor resides.
United States · United States Congress · 2 June 1977
National Product Liability Act - Declares that the purpose of this Act is to establish a substantive law of product liability for damages resulting from harm caused by products affecting interstate commerce and to establish a product liability action therefor. States that such product liability action preempts all existing causes and laws for the same purpose. Subjects whomever is engaged in interstate commerce and manufactures or sells: (1) a product which is in a defective condition; or (2) any product and fails to warn or protect against a dangerous condition in the use or reasonably foreseeable misuse or unintended use of the product or fails to provide proper instructions for the intended use of that product, to liability for the harm caused despite the fact that the manufacturer or seller has exercised all possible care in the preparation and/or sale of the product. Allows any person harmed by a product who is a reasonably anticipated user or consumer of the product to bring an action in "product liability" against the manufacturer or seller of the product. Allows any person against whom a product liability action is brought to bring an action for indemnification or other appropriate relief against any third party whose misconduct has caused or contributed to the harm for which damages are sought. Limits the time for commencing a product liability action to two years from the date when the harm is first sustained, discovered, or in the exercise of reasonable care should have been discovered. Stipulates that a product shall be deemed in defective condition only if it is unreasonably dangerous for its intended use at the time the product left the control of the party against whom the action is being brought. Prohibits the awarding of punitive or exemplary damages unless the trier of fact finds that the accused acted out of malice or willfully or wantonly acted in flagrant disregard of public health and safety. Allows the primary forum for trying cases brought under this Act to remain in the State courts.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 1977
Amends the Rules of the House of Representatives to transfer the responsibility for investigating Communist and subversive organizations affecting the internal security of the United States to a standing Committee on Internal Security established by this Resolution. Confers upon such committee the responsibility for investigating all organizations within the United States aimed at overthrowing or altering the Government of the United States by force, insurrection or other unlawful means or inciting or employing violence to obstruct the authority of the Federal Government with respect to matters of internal security of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1977
Economic Impact Act - Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to require the Congressional Budget Office to prepare an economic impact statement for each bill or joint resolution reported in Congress, for each amendment proposed in either House, and for each rule proposed by any Federal agency. Requires such statement to contain the direct and indirect effects of such proposed law on employment, production, inflation, and costs to be incurred by the Government for the fiscal year in which it is proposed or reported and each of the five fiscal years following such fiscal year. States that the effects referred to in this Act as they apply to agency rules shall include effects on State and local governments, major industrial sectors of the economy, the availability of consumer goods, low- and middle-income families, and small business. States that such statement applying to an agency rule shall be distributed as soon as possible but not later than 30 days before such rule is to become effective.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 1977
Amends Title XVI (Supplemental Security Income for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled) of the Social Security Act to require that resident aliens reside continuously in the United States for five years to qualify for supplemental security income benefits. Amends the Immigrations and Nationality Act to prevent an immigrant from entering the United States unless a United States citizen (immigration sponsor) executes a document, signed in the presence of an immigration officer, agreeing to support the immigrant for five years from the date of his admission at 125 percent of the current poverty level rates. Excuses the immigration sponsor from performance of the agreement if such sponsor dies or is adjudicated a bankrupt.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1977
Obligates the Federal Government to pay to the appropriate State or local government payments in lieu of real property taxes for property which is owned by the Government but leased to a private person for the purpose of conducting a business for profit thereon. States that the amount of such payment shall equal the amount of tax that would be due if the lessee were the owner of the leased property. Exempts specified property from the coverage of this Act and immunizes the Government from liability for specified penalties, and attachment or foreclosure for failure to make such payments.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1977
National Climate Program Act - Requires the President to establish a National Climate Program to: (1) obtain, analyze, and disseminate climate data; (2) perform research to improve understanding of climate and the causes of fluctuations and anomalies in climate, and develop models for predicting climate changes; (3) develop methods to detect and predict such changes, to give early alerts of incipient anomalies, and to evaluate prediction techniques; (4) support and conduct assessments to the impact on human activities of climate changes; and (5) disseminate information on climate predictions. Authorizes the Program to make grants to educational institutions for the establishment of climate study centers, and for regional studies programs. Requires the President to designate a Federal agency, referred to as the "lead agency," within which the Program will be administered. Requires the head of the lead agency to establish a National Climate Program Office to administer the Program. Stipulates that the President shall ensure that representatives of Federal agencies, conducting activities relating to the Program, are designated to serve on a Management Council for the Program which shall advise the lead agency, the Office, the State Department, and the President on specified matters relating to climate, and participate in developing the Program's budget. Requires the head of the lead agency, in consultation with the Management Council, to appoint an Advisory Council consisting of representatives of diverse interests relating to the Program to perform certain advisory and reporting functions. Requires the Office to publish a preliminary five-year plan including goals, priorities funding requirements, and the involvement of Federal agencies. Sets forth procedures for budget development. Requires the Office to submit to specified Congressional committees an annual report on the activities of the Program. Permits authorized Federal officers or agencies to enter into contract or grant arrangements to exercise functions vested in them under this Act. Sets forth restrictions with respect to patents on inventions made or conceived under such contract or grant arrangement. Authorizes $50,000,000 for appropriation to Federal departments and agencies for fiscal year 1978 for the purpose of conducting the Program.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1977
Earthquake Hazard Reduction Act - Directs the President to establish (1) a coordinated National Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program, (2) an Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction, (3) a National Advisory Committee on Earthquake Hazard Reduction and (4) an Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Board. Specifies the duties of the Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction, including developing and maintaining an Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program plan and staffing and assisting the National Advisory Committee. Directs the National Advisory Committee to review and advise the Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction regarding the progress, implementation, and coordination of the Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program. Details the elements of the Program, including physical studies; structural studies; social, legal and economic research; and practical application of knowledge concerning earthquakes. Directs the Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Board to evaluate individual earthquake prediction, compile and maintain a public record of the performance of prediction methods, and issue authenticated earthquake predictions if and when earthquake prediction becomes a sufficiently reliable science. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1977
Amends the Internal Security Act of 1950 by adding Title II: Terrorism. Prohibits issuance of a visa, admittance to the United States, or granting of United States citizenship to: (1) any person who has been convicted in the United States or elsewhere of any crime of terrorism; (2) any person not subject to the jurisdiction of the United States who, while outside of the United States, advocated orally or in writing any crime of terrorism; or (3) any person who has engaged in terrorist activities. Makes it unlawful for any person subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to: (1) send or receive funds, arms, explosives or any other thing of value for the purpose of committing any crime of terrorism; or (2) knowingly possess, transport, receive, or dispose of, funds or anything of value coerced or induced by any crime of terrorism. Defines the term "crime of terrorism" as espionage, sabotage, kidnapping, extortion, skyjacking, robbery, bombing, holding a person prisoner or hostage or any threat of any of the above. Provides for a fine of not more than $10,000, or imprisonment for not more than 10 years, or both for persons violating the provisions of this Act. Penalizes persons convicted of a crime of terrorism which resulted in the death of a hostage with imprisonment for life without parole, time off for good behavior or any pardon or mitigation of the sentence. Grants the United States a civil right of action to impose a constructive trust upon all property acquired by violation of any Federal criminal statute unless such property is found to have been acquired by a purchaser in good faith. Directs that the action be brought by the Department of Justice. Sets forth regulations and procedures for the constructive conduct of such civil action. Provides that all property recovered under this Act which is free of equitable claims shall inure to the use of the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration.
United States · United States Congress · 20 April 1977
Mobile Source Emission Control Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to extend through model year 1979 interim standards for hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide emissions from light-duty motor vehicles. Specifies standards applicable in model years 1980 and afterwards for such pollutants. Revises the emission standard for carbon monoxide to allow emissions of up to 9.0 grams per vehicle mile. Extends until model year 1981 the current 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard for nitrogen oxide emissions from light-duty vehicles. Establishes a nitrogen oxides emissions standard of 1.0 gram per vehicle mile for model years after 1981, subject to revision or waiver by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency in accordance with prescribed procedures. Stipulates that such revisions and waivers shall not permit emissions in excess of the 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard. Directs the Administrator, the Secretary of Transportation and the Federal Energy Administration to submit separate reports to Congress regarding the consequences of such emission standards on fuel consumption. Establishes additional prohibitions and penalties for tampering with motor vehicle emission control equipment. Empowers limits in the amount of vehicle testing required of small manufacturers. Establishes procedures for review of instructions for high altitude performance adjustments for motor vehicle emission control systems by the Administrator in accordance with specified requirements. Revises warranty requirements stipulated by the Act. Specifies an 18-month or 18,000 mile warranty requirement for the useful life of motor vehicle emission control systems. Directs the Administrator to study the effects of emissions of sulfur-bearing conformed from motor vehicles and aircraft. Extends the exception for disclosure of confidential information in administrative and judicial proceedings to emission data upon a satisfactory showing to the Administrator that such data would divulge trade secrets. Requires that documentation, justifications, proposed drafts, and comments of other agencies an proposed motor vehicle emission standards be made available to the public once such standards are proposed. Establishes procedures for oral presentation of views, with opportunity for cross-examination, with respect to such standards. Authorizes direct review of alleged procedural errors in the appropriate court of appeals. Authorizes the appropriation of $200,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980, to carry out the purposes of this Act other than research, development, and demonstration activities.
United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1977
Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to direct the Civil Aeronautics Board to adopt time limitations for decisions regarding applications for certificates of public convenience and necessity to engage in interstate air transportation. Requires the Board, if it does not act within such period, to issue the certificate as requested unless it, by order entered within the specified time period, finds that the public interest or extraordinary circumstances justify delay for a period of time specified in the order. Requires that any proposed rule or regulation establishing such time limits be submitted to each House of Congress and stipulates that it shall become effective 30 legislative days after submission unless either House adopts a resolution disapproving such rule or regulation.
United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1977
Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to require the Civil Aeronautics Board to rescind the authority of any air carrier to provide non-stop service between two points if such authority is not exercised for any continuous one-year period. Authorizes the Board to grant such authority to another carrier with or without a hearing.
United States · United States Congress · 18 April 1977
Prohibits disclosure of information identifying or tending to identify a person as a present or former participant in United States foreign intelligence operations if (1) the information has been designated by statute or Executive Order as requiring some degree of protection or (2) the person disclosing the information knows or has reason to believe that such disclosure may prejudice the safety or well-being of the person identified.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Antarctic Crimes Act - Subjects, with certain exceptions, to the appropriate punishment for the commission of a criminal act within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States persons committing a like act in Antarctica if (1) such person is a United States national or member of a United States expedition or (2) such act is committed against property of the United States or against the person or property of United States national or a member of a United States expedition.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1977
Prohibits disclosure of information identifying or tending to identify a person as a present or former participant in United States foreign intelligence operations if (1) the information has been designated by statute or Executive Order as requiring some degree of protection or (2) the person disclosing the information knows or has reason to believe that such disclosure may prejudice the safety or well-being of the person identified.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1977
Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to allow cancer-inducing additives to be used for human consumption if the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare has determined that the benefits of such food additives' availability outweigh its dangers. Permits the Secretary to promulgate specific restrictions on the use of such food additives. Deems saccharin a safe food additive until the Secretary declares it unsafe under the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1977
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act - Authorizes the appropriation of designated sums to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for research and development programs, construction of facilities including land acquisition, and research and program management. Permits utilization of research and development appropriations for (1) items of a capital nature which may be required at locations other than installations of the Administration for the performance of research and development contracts, and (2) grants to nonprofit institutions of higher education, or to nonprofit organizations whose primary purpose is the conduct of scientific research for purchase or construction of additional research facilities. Sets forth guidelines regarding the use and availability of funds appropriated pursuant to this Act. Specifies that certain authorizations for appropriations to the Administration under the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act 1976 and 1977, for which appropriations have not been made, shall expire on the date of enactment of this Act. Specifies procedures whereby amounts designated for specific programs may be varied upward, and whereby up to one half of one percent of the funds appropriated for research and development may be combined with $10,000,000 of funds appropriated for facility construction to construct or modify laboratories or other installations deemed by the Administration to be immediately needed. Prohibits utilization of sums appropriated pursuant to this Act for (1) any research or management program in excess of the amount specifically authorized for that program, (2) any program deleted by Congress for requests originally made, or (3) any program which has not been presented to either the House Committee on Science and Technology or the Senate Committee on Aeronautical and Space Sciences unless each such Committee has been given notice of any such proposed action and transmits written notice to the Administration that it has no objection. Directs the Administration to consider geographical distribution whenever feasible in allocating its research and development funds. Authorizes the Administration, when so provided in appropriation Acts, to enter into and to maintain a contract for tracking and data relay satellite services.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1977
Amends rule X of the Rules of the House of Representatives to establish a Standing Committee on Intelligence with exclusive legislative jurisdiction over foreign intelligence activities, and, except for the Appropriations Committee, oversight jurisdiction over and reporting from the Central Intelligence Agency and the Director of Central Intelligence. Amends rule XI of the Rules of the House of Representatives to set forth a procedure whereby classified material or information within the possession of any committee, or executive session transcripts relating thereto, may be publicly disclosed. Establishes in the House of Representatives a special leadership Committee to consider requests by House committees or Members with respect to the public disclosure of classified information within such committees' or a Member's possession, and to direct such committees to make certain classified materials available to the public. Amends the Rules of the House of Representatives to add rule XLV, establishing penalties for the release of certain classified materials other than in accordance with the procedures established by this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1977
Amends the Federal Salary Act of 1967 to keep from becoming effective any salary adjustment recommended by the President under such Act unless specifically approved by both Houses of Congress within 30 days after such adjustment is submitted to Congress. Amends the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 to repeal automatic cost-of-living adjustments for Members of Congress. Abolishes such adjustments for (1) certain executive and judicial employees and officials, (2) President, and (3) referees in bankruptcy.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1977
Immigration and Jobs Displacement Reform Act - Prohibits, under the Immigration and Nationality Act, the employment or referral for employment of aliens who have not been lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence, unless such employment is authorized by the Attorney General. Directs the Attorney General to serve a citation upon first-time violators of this Act. Establishes a civil penalty of not more than $1,000 for each alien if a violation occurs within two years after the service of a citation. Permits a civil penalty to be imposed only after an opportunity for hearing and after the Attorney General has determined that a violation did occur. Provides that one who is assessed a civil penalty and thereafter violates this Act shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction punished by a fine not exceeding $5,000 or by one year imprisonment, or both, for each alien in respect to whom any violation of this Act occurs. Permits the Attorney General to adjust the status any illegal alien to that of an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence if such alien has been continuously physically present in the United States since June 30, 1970, and who on June 30, 1977, is the spouse, parent, son, daughter, brother, or sister of an alien lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence or whose departure from the United States would result in unusual hardship. Adds border crossing cards, alien registration receipt cards, and other documents prescribed by regulation for entry into the United States to the list of documents the false making of which shall be punished by a fine or imprisonment or both. Requires the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to disclose to the Attorney General the name and most recent address of any illegal alien who is receiving assistance under the Social Security Act. Allows the Attorney General to deport any alien who has become a public charge within five years after entry from causes not affirmatively shown to have arisen after entry. Directs the Attorney General and the Secretary of State in any quarter of a fiscal year in which the Quarterly Unemployment Rate exceeds five percent to reduce the maximum number of aliens who may, during the next quarter, acquire the status of an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence. Sets forth the formula to be used to compute such reductions.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1977
National Health Care Act - Title I: Findings and Declaration of Purpose - Expresses the finding of Congress that many Americans find it difficult to secure quality health care when they need it. Declares the purpose of the Act to be the improvement of the organization, delivery, and financing of health care for all citizens of the United States. Title II: Provisions to Strengthen Health Planning - Directs the States, as part of their review of institutional health services, to designate unneeded services as surplus. States that surplus service shall be considered as though it has been denied a certificate-of-need. Establishes under the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, a system of grants to reimburse health care institutions which incurred expenses in developing facilities which were later declared surplus. Authorizes State health planning and development agencies to establish a health data consortium to serve the common data needs of itself and specified groups including health care institutions, insurance companies underwriting health insurance plans, and Health Systems Agencies. Requires the Secretary to issue guidelines to be used in establishing certificate-of-need programs and in evaluating the need for new institutional health services. Title III: Provisions to Encourage Comprehensive Ambulatory Health Care Centers - Authorizes grants for the construction and modernization of comprehensive ambulatory health care centers. Places priority upon the construction of such facilities located in densely populated areas where such facilities do not now exist. Directs that in order to participate in programs pursuant to this title the States must submit a plan which includes a listing of comprehensive ambulatory health care centers needed to provide adequate ambulatory health care services for patients residing in the State. Title IV: Provisions to Assure a Coordinated National Health Policy - Requires the President to transmit to the Congress not later than July 1 of each year a health report setting forth the present status of the health care system of the Nation with an appraisal of trends and a review of the health programs and activities of the Federal, State and local governments. Creates a Health Policy Board which shall study the Nation's health care programs and make recommendations to the President concerning such programs. Directs the Board to consult with other advisory bodies and representative groups in carrying out its responsibilities. Directs all agencies of the Federal Government to include in every major action, statements regarding the effect of such action on the nation's health care. Title V: Provisions to Make Comprehensive Health Care Insurance Available to All - Establishes minimum standard health care benefits. Specifies that such standard shall be 100 percent of specified examinations, X-rays and laboratory tests and 80 percent of specified hospital, surgical, professional, and ambulatory health care. Prohibits, after a transitional period, any deductions by an employer for payments to an employee health care plan unless the plan offers coverage to the employees' family, the employer pays at least 50 percent of the plan's cost, and the plan provides the minimum health care benefits specified by this title. Allows an unlimited personal deduction for premiums paid by the taxpayer for a health care plan covering himself or his dependents which provides the minimum benefits specified by this Act. Specifies such minimum health care benefits, including basic dental, maternal, child, family planning and mental health care, which must be extended by health plans in order to qualify for the income tax deductions provided by this Act. Requires that such plans provide an annual deductible of $100, with a carryover of any unused portion. Prohibits the award of damages for the cost of remedial services for which a party is compensated under this Act, in any malpractice action arising out of the furnishing of services covered under a health care plan or under the Social Security Act. Adds to the Social Security Act, "Title XXI - Grants to States for Qualified State Health Care Plans". Authorizes the appropriation of such funds as necessary to provide comprehensive health care insurance to needy individuals and families. Allows individuals or families eligible for enrollment in the qualified State health care plan to elect coverage under an arrangement between the administering carrier and an approved health maintenance organization. States that every resident individual or family who is not eligible to enroll in a qualified employee health care plan, who is enrolled in the supplementary medical insurance program for the aged and who meets the requirements concerning income, shall be eligible to enroll in the qualified State health care plan. Sets forth a formula for determining premium rates to be paid by participating individuals and families. States that in the operation of a qualified State health care plan no charge for services rendered or supplies furnished by any hospital, skilled nursing facility, or home health agency shall be reimbursed to the extent that such charges exceed the rates approved by a State health care institution cost commission established pursuant to this Act. Makes it the duty of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to review the level of rates of institutional reimbursement approved by the commission for such categories of health care institutions as shall be established by the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to order a reduction in the level of rates approved for a given category of health care institution upon a determination that such rates are unjustifiably high. Stipulates that each State must establish a health care benefits pool. Directs that the premiums collected pursuant to Title XXI, as introduced in this Act, be paid into the pool. Makes such pool available to pay claims and other specified expenses associated with the program. Prohibits any class of individuals or families receiving all, or substantially all, of their medical care under a Federal program from receiving coverage under a qualified State health care plan unless the Federal Government provides payment as required by the Act. Makes the State insurance commissioner responsible for assuring the establishment and regulation of a facility to underwrite or reinsure minimum standard health care benefits for individuals, families, and groups of less than 50 employees or members to whom such benefits would not otherwise be available.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1977
Authorizes appropriations in specified amounts out of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund to the Secretary of Transportation for fiscal year 1978 for specified aviation-related research, demonstration, and development projects under the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 and the Airport and Airway Development Act of 1970.
United States · United States Congress · 16 February 1977
Earthquake Hazard Reduction Act - Directs the President to establish: (1) a coordinated National Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program; (2) an Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction; (3) a National Advisory Committee on Earthquake Hazard Reduction; and (4) an Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Board. Specifies the duties of the Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction, including developing and maintaining an Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program plan and staffing and assisting the National Advisory Committee. Directs the National Advisory Committee to review and advise the Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction regarding the progress, implementation, and coordination of the Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program. Enumerates the Federal agencies to be assigned responsibilities in the Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program. Details the elements of the Program, including physical studies; structural studies; social, legal and economic research; and practical application of knowledge concerning earthquakes. Directs the Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Board to evaluate individual earthquake predictions, compile and maintain a public record of the performance of prediction methods, and issue authenticated earthquake predictions if and when earthquake prediction becomes a sufficiently reliable science.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1977
National Climate Program Act - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to coordinate the establishment and operation of a Federal climate program for the collection, analysis, and dissemination of data concerning climatic States and the influence of human activities on climatic dynamics. Empowers the Secretary to establish advisory committees to be composed of experts in climatology and related fields and of representatives of interested Federal departments to more effectively carry out the purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary to coordinate the activities of the climate program with related Federal programs and with climate research programs of international organizations. Authorizes the Secretary to transfer funds and make grants to governmental bodies and educational and nonprofit institutions to carry out the purposes of this Act. Requires the Secretary to prepare and submit each year to the Office of Management and Budget an updated five-year plan and request for appropriations thereunder for the climate program for such fiscal year. Directs the Secretary to annually prepare and submit to the President for transmittal to the Congress a report on the administration of this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of funds to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 February 1977
Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to remove the public interest requirement for the issuance of orders, permits, and regulations by the Civil Aeronautics Board with respect to foreign air carriers where the carrier is being operated pursuant to an agreement approved by the Board.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1977
Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments - Extends through Fiscal year 1978 the authorization of appropriations for: (1) water treatment works pilot training programs; (2) the development of a system of forecasting the supply of and demand for water pollution control specialists; (3) grants for State pollution control programs; (4) scholarships, training grants and contracts in the field of water pollution control; (5) grants to designated agencies to assist in the development and operation of continuing areawide waste treatment management planning processes; (6) grants to the States for lake water improvement programs; and (7) the purposes of this Act other than those specified in (1) through (6) above. Authorizes the use of Federal grants for construction of treatment works as grants for the Federal share of construction costs of sewage collection systems which are part of the same total waste treatment system. Stipulates that the total amount of all such grants shall not exceed $2,800,000. Authorizes the use of a single grant for the combined Federal share of planning and design along with building and construction costs in the case of treatment works with an estimated total cost of $1,000,000 or less. Authorizes the use of ad valorem taxes to satisfy the user charge system requirement for applicants for treatment works grants under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Establishes procedures for allotment of construction grant funds to States in accordance with criteria established by the House Committee on Public Works and Transportation. Stipulates that allotments made subject to a limitation on obligation shall remain available until expended. Extends the provisions for Federal reimbursement of construction costs of publicly owned water treatment works to include reimbursement for works on which construction was started not later than July 1, 1973. Increases the amount of the appropriation authorized to cover such reimbursement to $2,950,000,000. Authorizes additional appropriations for waste treatment construction grants of $5,000,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 and $6,000,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978 and 1979. Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to accept certification by State water pollution control agencies as discharging the Administrator's responsibility for treatment projects within such State. Requires a finding by the Administrator that such projects will be carried out in accordance with State laws and standards at least equivalent to those established by Federal law. Stipulates that the determination of priorities with respect to categories of projects for treatment works within each State shall be made solely by the State. Authorizes the Administrator to extend from July 1, 1977, until July 1, 1982, the deadline for the achievement of effluent limitations for public treatment works. Authorizes additional extensions of deadlines until July 1, 1983, in the case of treatment works based on innovative technology. Requires submission of enforceable compliance schedules by applicants for such extension. Extends until April 1, 1975, the deadline for submission of State water quality inventory reports. Requires that such reports be revised by April 1, 1976, and kept current biennially. Directs the Administrator to submit such reports to Congress on or before October 1, 1976, and biennially thereafter. Deletes the 30-day time requirement for public hearings as required by the Act for proposed toxic and pretreatment effluent standards. Authorizes the Administrator to defer the effective date of proposed toxic effluent standards for up to three years following promulgation of such standards if the Administrator determines that compliance within one year is technologically unfeasible for a particular category of sources. Redefines the term "navigable waters" as it applies to permits for dredged or fill material as required by the Act. Allows the discharge of dredged or fill materials without a permit in waters other than navigable waters and adjacent wetlands. Authorizes the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Corps of Engineers, to enter into agreements with States to regulate the discharge of dredged or fill material in waters other than navigable waters and in wetlands other than adjacent wetlands. Exempts farming, silviculture, ranching, forestry and specified construction activities from permit requirements with respect to discharges of dredged or fill material. Stipulates that Federal projects shall be exempt only if the effects of such discharges have been assessed pursuant to the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Authorizes the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Corps of Engineers, to delegate authority over dredged and fill material in adjacent wetlands to the States. Establishes an emergency contingency fund to provide assistance in cases of imminent and substantial threats to the public health and welfare. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to maintain such fund with a balance of $5,000,000. Authorizes judicial review of administrative acts connected with effluent guidelines or approval of State certification. Establishes procedures for Congressional review and disapproval of rules or regulations issued under authority of the Act. Requires officers and employees of the Environmental Protection Agency to disclose all known financial interests in persons subject to the provisions of the Act. Imposes criminal penalties for knowing violations of such disclosure requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1977
Requires, under the Gun Control Act of 1968, that whoever during the commission of any robbery, assault, rape, burglary, kidnapping, or homicide (other than involuntary manslaughter), uses any firearm which has been transported in interstate and foreign commerce shall be imprisoned (1) in the case of his first offense, for not less than ten years; and (2) in the case of his second or subsequent offense, for not less than 25 years. Stipulates that the execution or imposition of any term of imprisonment imposed under this Act: (1) may not be suspended; (2) probation may not be granted; and (3) may not run concurrently with any term of imprisonment imposed for the commission of any such defense. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 924)
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1977
Constitutional Amendment - States that Congress shall make no appropriations for any fiscal year which exceed the total revenues of the United States for such year. Prohibits spending by, or on behalf of, the United States which exceeds the total revenue for that year. Suspends such requirements when Congress declares war or national emergency.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1977
Constitutional Amendment - Provides that the people of the several States, and the District of Columbia, shall elect the President and Vice President. Requires each elector to cast a single vote for two persons who shall have consented to the joining of their names as candidates for the offices of President and Vice President. Requires the electors of President and Vice President in each State to have the qualifications requisite for electors of Members of Congress from that State, except that for electors of President and Vice President, the legislature of any State may prescribe less restrictive residence qualifications and for electors of President and Vice President, the Congress may establish uniform residence and age requirements. Provides that the pair of persons having the greatest number of votes for President and Vice President shall be elected, if such number be at least 40 percent of the whole number of votes cast for such offices. Provides that if no pair of persons has such number, a runoff election shall be held in which the choice of President and Vice President shall be made from the two pairs of persons who received the highest numbers of votes. Requires the days for such elections to be determined by Congress and to be uniform throughout the United States. Requires Congress to prescribe by law the time, place, and manner in which the results of such elections shall be ascertained and declared. Grants to each State the authority as to the time and place and manner of holding such elections and entitlement to inclusion or the ballot. Specifies that if, at the time fixed for declaring the results of such elections, the presidential candidate who would have been entitled to election as President has died, the Vice Presidential candidate entitled to election as Vice President shall be declared elected President. Allows Congress to provide for the case of the death, inability, or withdrawal of any candidate for President or Vice President before a President and Vice president have been elected, and for the case of the death of both the President and Vice President elect.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1977
Creates a 12 member select committee to conduct an investigation of the circumstances surrounding both product liability and professional liability insurance rate increases and any related issues the committee shall determine. Directs the committee to report to the House as soon as practicable during the present Congress the results of its investigation, together with such recommendations as it deems advisable.
United States · United States Congress · 1 February 1977
Regulatory Agency Abolition Act - Abolishes each Federal regulatory agency three years after enactment of this Act unless prior to such date the President and Congress study the effectiveness of such agencies and Congress thereafter adopts a resolution disapproving such abolition. Provides that each regulatory agency established after the date of enactment of this Act shall be abolished three years from the date on which it was first empowered unless the President and Congress take the steps outlined above. Directs the President to submit to Congress a plan for the orderly transfer of duties essential to the public health, safety or welfare from an abolished agency to the President or to a successor agency. Provides that all orders, rules, certificates, judicial proceedings and licenses made effective by agencies abolished by this Act shall continue in effect until repealed or superceded by the President.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1977
Establishes a Commission on Legislative-Judicial Relations to conduct a study of article III, section 2, of the Constitution relating to the authority of Congress to limit the appellate jurisdiction of the Supreme Court and inferior courts and other related issues. Requires the Commission to submit a report to the Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1977
Truth in Government Accounting Act - Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to prepare and make public annual consolidated financial statements for all expenditures of the United States utilizing the accrual method of accounting.
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1977
Creates a 12 member select committee to conduct an investigation of the circumstances surrounding both product liability and professional liability insurance rate increases and any related issues the committee shall determine. Directs the committee to report to the House as soon as practicable during the present Congress the results of its investigation, together with such recommendations as it deems advisable.
United States · United States Congress · 24 January 1977
Administrative Rule Making Reform Act - Requires a Federal agency preparing to hold a rule making session to make a reasonable effort to inform those likely to be affected by the proposed rule making. Requires that if the affected group is large, representatives of such group must be notified. Requires, in addition to present requirements, that the notice of rule making include the projected effective date of the rules, the purpose of the rule making, the text of the proposed rules, and the technical or other studies on which the agency intends to rely in the rule making proceedings. Applies the requirements of this Act to all rule making sessions except (1) those specifically authorized to be kept secret in the interest of national security, (2) those relating to agency management, and (3) those promulgating rules which are not enforceable by imprisonment, fine, civil penalty, or denial of future Federal benefits. Requires public notice and public opportunity for comment of all rule making proceedings under this Act unless the agency finds that the rules to be proposed are emergency rules or are of routine or insignificant impact in which case the rule must be published with reasons for its adoption. Requires Federal agencies to give interested persons at least 45 days to participate in the rule making. Requires the agency to maintain a file of each proceeding to be made available to the courts, Congress, and to the public in connection with review of the rule. Limits the period for public comment to a maximum of 90 days. Requires a copy of all proposed rules to be sent to Congress. States that such rule, other than an emergency rule, shall not become effective if it is disapproved within 90 days by both Houses of Congress, or it is disapproved within 60 days by one House and no action is taken on the disapproval resolution by the other House. Provides that either House of Congress may, by resolution, require any agency to reconsider and resubmit any rule to which this Act applies. Requires that such proposed rule be repromulgated anew in accordance with all the provisions of this Act unless it is reconsidered and resubmitted to Congress within 180 days after the adoption of the resolution requiring such reconsideration. Sets forth procedures for adoption of resolutions to approve, disapprove, or compel reconsideration for both Houses. Requires the Administrative Conference of the United States to study congressional review of agency rule making under this Act and report the effect of such review on such rule making before July 1, 1982. Authorizes to be appropriated $200,000 to finance such study. Makes this Act effective on the first day of the first session of the 95th Congress. Terminates the congressional review required by this Act at the adjournment of the 97th Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 24 January 1977
Administrative Rule Making Reform Act - Requires a Federal agency preparing to hold a rule making session to make a reasonable effort to inform those likely to be affected by the proposed rule making. Requires that if the affected group is large, representatives of such group must be notified. Requires, in addition to present requirements, that the notice of rule making include the projected effective date of the rules, the purpose of the rule making, the text of the proposed rules, and the technical or other studies on which the agency intends to rely in the rule making proceedings. Applies the requirements of this Act to all rule making sessions except (1) those specifically authorized to be kept secret in the interest of national security, and (2) those relating to agency management. Requires public notice and public opportunity for comment of all rule making proceedings under this Act unless the agency finds that the rules to be proposed are emergency rules or are of routine or insignificant impact in which case the rule must be published with reasons for its adoption. Requires Federal agencies to give interested persons at least 45 days to participate in the rule making. Requires the agency to maintain a file of each proceeding to be made available to the courts, Congress, and to the public in connection with review of the rule. Limits the period for public comment to a maximum of 90 days. Requires a copy of all proposed rules to be sent to Congress. States that such rule, other than an emergency rule, shall not become effective if it is disapproved within 90 days by both Houses of Congress, or it is disapproved within 60 days by one House and no action is taken on the disapproval resolution by the other House. Sets forth procedures for adoption of resolutions to approve or disapprove any such rule for both Houses. Requires the Administrative Conference of the United States to study Congressional review of agency rule making under this Act and report the effect of such review on such rule making before July 1, 1982. Authorizes to be appropriated $200,000 to finance such study. Makes this Act effective on the first day of the first session of the Ninety-fifth Congress. Terminates the Congressional review required by this Act at the adjournment of the Ninety-seventh Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 24 January 1977
Administrative Rule Making Reform Act - Requires a Federal agency preparing to hold a rule making session to make a reasonable effort to inform those likely to be affected by the proposed rule making. Requires that if the affected group is large, representatives of such group must be notified. Requires, in addition to present requirements, that the notice of rule making include the projected effective date of the rules, the purpose of the rule making, the text of the proposed rules, and the technical or other studies on which the agency intends to rely in the rule making proceedings. Applies the requirements of this Act to all rule making sessions except (1) those specifically authorized to be kept secret in the interest of national security, and (2) those relating to agency management. Requires public notice and public opportunity for comment of all rule making proceedings under this Act unless the agency finds that the rules to be proposed are emergency rules or are of routine or insignificant impact in which case the rule must be published with reasons for its adoption. Requires Federal agencies to give interested persons at least 45 days to participate in the rule making. Requires the agency to maintain a file of each proceeding to be made available to the courts, Congress, and to the public in connection with review of the rule. Limits the period for public comment to a maximum of 90 days. Requires a copy of all proposed rules to be sent to Congress. States that such rule, other than an emergency rule, shall not become effective if it is disapproved within 90 days by both Houses of Congress, or it is disapproved within 60 days by one House and no action is taken on the disapproval resolution by the other House. Provides that either House of Congress may, by resolution, require any agency to reconsider and resubmit any rule to which this Act applies. Requires that such proposed rule be repromulgated anew in accordance with all the provisions of this Act unless it is reconsidered and resubmitted to Congress within 180 days after the adoption of the resolution requiring such reconsideration. Requires the Administrative Conference of the United States to study Congressional review of agency rule making under this Act and report the effect of such review on such rule making before July 1, 1982. Authorizes to be appropriated $200,000 to finance such study. Makes this Act effective on the first day of the first session of the Ninety-fifth Congress. Terminates the Congressional review required by this Act at the adjournment of the Ninety-seventh Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1977
Increases to $5,000 the amount of outside earnings which is permitted an individual each year without any deduction from benefits under Title II (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1977
Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits compelling a student to attend a public school other than the one nearest his residence for reasons of race, color, national origin, religion, or sex.
![Official portrait of Rep. Milford, Dale [D-TX-24]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/m000708_200.jpg)