United States · United States Congress · 31 October 1985
Civil Service Supplemental Retirement System Act of 1985 - Title I: Civil Service Supplemental Retirement System - Establishes a Civil Service Supplemental Retirement Plan for Federal employees, postal employees, and Members of Congress who began service after December 31, 1983. Sets forth provisions for the benefit plan including: (1) eligibility for an annuity after five years of creditable service; (2) entitlements to retirement based on age and years of service; (3) the formulas for computing an annuity; (4) survivor election reductions; and (5) funding. Sets forth provisions for mandatory retirement for air traffic controllers, law enforcement officers, and firefighters. Establishes a Thrift Savings Plan under which participants may contribute up to 10 percent of their annual basic pay. Requires employing agencies to contribute the lesser of: (1) 50 percent of amounts contributed by the employee; or (2) three percent of such employee's basic pay. Provides for the payment of benefits, lump sum or annuity, at the employee's separation from service. Establishes in the Treasury the Thrift Savings Fund for the deposit and accounting of amounts under the Plan. Prescribes how money in such Fund shall be invested. Describes survivor annuities under the supplemental retirement plan. Describes disability benefits for employees who have completed five years of creditable service. Sets forth general and administrative provisions. Directs the Office of Personnel Management to pay all benefits payable under the benefit plan and administer provisions not specifically assigned to another entity. Directs the Office to adjudicate all claims under provisions it administers. Provides for annual cost-of-living adjustments in basic pensions based upon an increase in the Consumer Price Index. Provides for withholding of State income taxes from retirement annuities. Declares that basic annuities, survivor annuities, and disability benefits are exempt from legal process (i.e. levy, attachment, garnishment) unless otherwise provided by Federal law. Establishes in the executive branch the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board to be responsible for policies and regulations for, and review of, the investment and management of the Thrift Savings Fund. Directs the Board to establish an Employee Thrift Advisory Council to advise the Board on matters relating to investment policies for the Fund. Directs the Board to appoint an Executive Director to carry out its policies, invest and manage the fund, and administer provisions of the Thrift Savings Plan. Title II: Amendments to Chapter 83 of Title 5, United States Code - Provides for civil service retirement for certain employees excluded from the supplemental retirement plan. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Amends the Federal Employees' Retirement Contribution Temporary Adjustment Act of 1983 to extend its provisions until January 1, 1987. Allows employees covered under such Act to elect participation in the supplemental retirement plan. Title IV: Effective Dates - Declares this Act in effect on January 1, 1987, with specified exceptions.
United States · United States Congress · 31 October 1985
Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the Postmaster General should issue a stamp, before October 1, 1986, commemorating the 100th Congress; and (2) the U.S. Postal Service should conduct a public competition for the design of the stamp.
United States · United States Congress · 30 October 1985
Equitable Automobile Transportation Act of 1985 - Requires a person exporting Japanese motor vehicles to be imported into the United States to: (1) transport an equal number of such vehicles on U.S. - documented vessels as are transported on Japanese vessels; and (2) file an annual certification with the Department of the Treasury which contains specified assurances and information. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to prescribe regulations to enforce this Act. Provides penalties for the violation of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 30 October 1985
Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to provide that funds made available for family planning programs may only be used for programs: (1) in which there is not any element of coercion of individuals to practice family planning or to accept any particular method of contraception; (2) which include an accurate description of the effectiveness and risks of all major methods of family planning; and (3) which include an agreement to provide either other family planning methods if requested or referral to programs offering other methods as appropriate.
United States · United States Congress · 30 October 1985
Designates 1986 as Save for the U.S.A. Year. Requests the President to initiate a nationwide campaign, to be known as the Buy Back America campaign, to encourage the people of the United States to buy U.S. savings bonds and certificates and thereby reduce borrowings from foreign sources. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to enhance the marketability of such bonds and certificates.
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1985
Amends part A (Hospital Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to revise the method of determining the inpatient hospital deductible to make such deductible equal to the preceding year's deductible increased by the lesser of the applicable increase percentage determined under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Act or the increase in the Consumer Price Index. Reduces the rate of increase of the coinsurance amount payable for extended care services.
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1985
Amends part A (Hospital Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to revise the method of determining the inpatient hospital deductible, extended care services coinsurance amount, and monthly premium. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose an additional excise tax on cigarettes. Deposits revenues raised by the additional tax into the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1985
Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to deposit in Government trust funds amounts equal to interest lost to such trust funds through disinvestment of Federal or federally-insured obligations by the Secretary during FY 1986 for the purpose of avoiding any violation of the public debt limit.
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1985
Reaffirms congressional support for the Medicare Program and for the right of all Medicare beneficiaries to receive accurate and timely information regarding their benefits. Urges the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) convene a group of program participants to draft a simple statement of the rights and responsibilities of Medicare patients; and (2) transmit copies of the statement to all Members of Congress and hospitals and physicians participating in the program; and (3) urge participating hospitals to distribute copies of the statement to Medicare beneficiaries upon their hospitalization and to their families upon request.
United States · United States Congress · 24 October 1985
Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants for the establishment or support of adolescent health demonstration projects. Requires such projects to: (1) provide nutrition and hygiene counseling, health care related to sports, family planning education and services, prenatal and postpartum care, family life and parenting counseling, and alcohol and drug abuse education and treatment; (2) serve adolescents before their graduation from high school; (3) encourage family participation; and (4) establish community advisory committees. Directs the Secretary to give priority to project applicants who will serve areas with low-income or minority populations. States that no grant funds may be used to perform or pay for abortions. Requires parental consent for adolescents to receive services provided by such projects. Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress by December 1, 1992.
United States · United States Congress · 24 October 1985
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the United States: (1) should not sell advanced weapons to Jordan; (2) should ensure that Israel retains its qualitative military edge in the Middle East; and (3) should focus its efforts on bringing Jordan into direct peace negotiations with Israel.
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1985
Amends the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to provide that small business investment companies that make loans to small businesses may charge interest on such loans at a rate which does not exceed the maximum rate prescribed by Small Business Administration regulation (determined without regard to any State rate incorporated by such regulation).
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 1985
Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to eliminate, for five years, in the case of individuals medically determined to have acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), the requirement that an individual be entitled to disability benefits for at least 24 consecutive months in order to qualify for hospital insurance benefits under part A (Hospital Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Act. Provides Medicare coverage of experimental AIDS treatment which is in accord with recognized clinical protocol.
United States · United States Congress · 16 October 1985
Depository Institution Examination Improvement Act of 1985 - Redesignates the Financial Institution Examination Council as the Depository Institutions Examination Council. Requires the Council to devise a Federal examiner classification system and, for each of 12 districts approximating the districts of the Federal depository institutions regulatory agencies (regulatory agencies), a regional pay scale in order to provide Federal examiners with compensation and benefits commensurate with private sector accountants and auditors who perform similar functions in such districts. Directs each regulatory agency and each regional bank, branch, or office of such agency to assign and pay examiners accordingly. Directs the Council to prescribe methods of determining travel allowances and pay rates for temporary assignments of examiners. Exempts from Federal laws and regulations applicable to Government employees the officers and employees of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Federal Home Loan Bank Board, the Federal Savings and Loan Insurance Corporation, and the National Credit Union Administration. Exempts such entities, the Council, Federal reserve banks, and Federal Home Loan Banks from Federal laws and regulations providing for budget and appropriation review and provides that certain assessments received by such entities shall not be considered Government funds or appropriated money. Subjects such entities and banks to audit by the Comptroller General. Repeals authority of the Secretary of the Treasury over the Comptroller of the Currency and staff. Authorizes each regulatory agency to establish procedures for transferring employees affected by this Act out of the civil service and for providing fair and equitable compensation and reimbursement to such employees for any resulting loss of benefits. Directs the Council to: (1) develop a proposal for consolidating all Federal examiner training programs in one school to be established and conducted by the Council; and (2) report to specified congressional committees on its findings, legislative recommendations, and the savings to the regulatory agencies that would result from such consolidation. Requires the Council to: (1) study the feasibility of establishing a graduate degree program in financial management analysis for officers and employees of the regulatory agencies and the State depository institutions supervisory agencies (State agencies); and (2) report to specified congressional committees on its findings, legislative recommendations, the cost of establishing and conducting the program, and on the approval or disapproval by each regulatory agency of the Council's proposal for such program. Requires the Council to establish minimum requirements for examinations of depository institutions by State agencies in order for such an examination to be acceptable for purposes of Federal law. Directs the Council: (1) at least annually, to request each State agency which examines institutions subject to Federal examination to allow the Council to review its examination methods; (2) to notify a State agency if its examination methods do not satisfy such minimum requirements and allow the agency not more than three years to cure any deficiency; and (3) notify each Federal regulatory agency if a State agency refuses to allow a review of its examination methods or fails to remedy any deficiency in its methods. Prohibits any Federal regulatory agency or any regional bank, branch, or other office of such Federal agency to rely on any report of examination by a State agency for which such a notice has been received to fulfill an examination requirement under Federal law. Requires the Council to establish a State examiner certification program and to evaluate State examiners for certification at the request of a State agency.
United States · United States Congress · 16 October 1985
Trade Equity and Growth Act of 1985 - Declares that achievement of an orderly movement to lower and stable exchange rates for the dollar is a primary objective of U.S. economic policy. Directs the President to convene an international conference on the international monetary system to review the present system of floating exchange rates and to develop a consensus on reform of that system to provide for the long term exchange rate stability necessary for a strengthened world trade and financial system. Sets forth proposed reforms for study at such conference. Requires the President to report annually to the Congress on the progress made toward: (1) reducing the value of the dollar and stabilizing it on international markets through short term actions; and (2) adopting long-term reform of the system that will prevent future instability in international exchange rates. Prohibits the President from: (1) commencing multilateral negotiations under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade on reducing or eliminating tariffs and non-tariff barriers to trade until the conference is convened; or (2) concluding any trade agreement resulting from such nogotiations until the Congress receives its first annual report on progress in reforming the international monetary system. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to: (1) report to the Congress, within 30 days of enactment of this Act, on the range of dollar exchange values that must be obtained if equilibrium in the current account deficits of the United States is to be restored by 1990; and (2) develop and implement mechanisms to achieve such equilibrium. Requires the Secretary to report on a quarterly basis to the Congress on developing and implementing such mechanisms.
United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1985
States that a person shall be considered an American national if such person completes 15 years of lawful continuous residence in the United States or American Samoa, and one of his or her parents was a national of the United States and a resident of the United States or American Samoa at the time of that person's birth.
United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1985
Declares that the Congress calls upon the President to direct the Agency for International Development (AID) to work in a global effort to provide support toward achieving the goal of universal access to childhood immunization by the year 1990. Sets forth specified actions to be taken by AID, in conjunction with the World Health Organization and UNICEF, in reaching such goal. Urges the President to seek both private and public assistance in the United States to achieve universal access to childhood immunization.
United States · United States Congress · 7 October 1985
Fair Export Financing Act of 1985 - Amends the Trade and Development Enhancement Act of 1983 to declare that one of the purposes of such Act is to establish a temporary tied aid credit program to combat the predatory concessional credit programs of foreign governments. Directs the President to negotiate limits on partially untied aid credit. Changes the U.S. negotiating objectives to include references to partially untied aid credits. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to establish within the Department of the Treasury a program of tied aid credits for U.S. exports. Requires the program to be carried out in cooperation with the Export-Import Bank or with private financial institutions or entities. (Currently the program is established within the Export-Import Bank and carried out in cooperation with the Agency for International Development (AID).) Sets forth financing methods that may be included in such program. Authorizes appropriations. Repeals the provision that established a tied aid credit program in AID. Requires the Secretary to seek the advice of the National Advisory Council on International Monetary and Financial Policies before approving financing under the tied aid credit program. Terminates the tied aid credit program on September 30, 1987. Limits judicial review of actions by the Chairman of the Export-Import Bank and by the Secretary. Changes the definition of "tied aid credit." Defines "partially untied aid credit." Deletes references to government-mixed credits and public-private cofinancing.
United States · United States Congress · 7 October 1985
Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to authorize the President to enter into agreements establishing reciprocal arrangements between Medicare programs and the program of any foreign country providing similar services to individuals either directly or by insurance payments. Requires that any such agreement specify: (1) the nature and extent of payment to be made to, or on behalf of, the individuals entitled to benefits; (2) limitations on the nature and duration of health services and on entitlement of individuals to benefits on a reciprocal basis; and (3) the methods by which the cost of providing health services on a reciprocal basis shall be shared by the United States and the foreign country. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make rules and regulations and establish procedures necessary to implement and administer such agreements. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into interim arrangements with any hospital in a foreign country which is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospitals or such other hospitals as the Secretary finds meet specified health and safety standards.
United States · United States Congress · 7 October 1985
Declares that the Congress deplores the President's notification to the U.N. Secretary General that the United States is withdrawing from the compulsory jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice, and reaffirms its support for the international rule of law and the role of the Court.
United States · United States Congress · 3 October 1985
Strategic Capital Reserve Act of 1985 - Establishes in the Treasury a Strategic Capital Reserve (Reserve). Makes such reserve available to the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Secretary of the Treasury for purchases and sales of foreign currencies. Requires the Board and the Secretary to purchase foreign currencies, in a specified amount, during any fiscal quarter when: (1) the current account deficit has exceeded one and one-half percent of the gross national product for the most recent four consecutive quarters; and (2) the trade-weighted exchange rate of the dollar is 15 percent or more above the equilibrium rate (that rate which would be required to bring the current account into balance). Authorizes the Board and the Secretary to sell currencies from the Reserve in order to prevent sudden and disruptive drops in the value of the dollar or to calm disorderly markets. Provides that such authority may not be exercised to counteract or offset gradual, orderly declines in the value of the dollar resulting from purchases of foreign currencies. Requires the Board to disregard any purchase of currency authorized under this Act in the formulation and conduct of monetary policy. Requires the Board and the Secretary to consult at least quarterly with the central banks of the Federal Republic of Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and France in order to coordinate foreign exchange operations. Requires the Board and the Secretary to report annually to the Congress on the impact of currency transactions under this Act on foreign exchange markets. Requires the President to enter into negotiations with the governments of the Group of Ten countries to establish an international financial commission to carry out a study and report to each of the Group of Ten countries on measures to reduce capital flow imbalances and volitility in capital flows caused by the macro-economic policies of major trading countries.
United States · United States Congress · 2 October 1985
Anti-Smuggling Act of 1985 - Title I: Amendments to the Tariff Act of 1930 - Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to include monetary instruments within the meaning of "merchandise." Requires any vessel which has visited any hovering vessel, or has received merchandise while such vessel is in customs waters beyond the territorial sea, or has received merchandise on the high seas, to be treated as having arrived from a foreign port or place. Requires the owner of any vessel from a foreign port or place, any foreign vessel from a domestic port or place, or any U.S. vessel carrying bonded merchandise or foreign merchandise for which entry has not been made, to immediately report such vessels's arrival (currently within 24 hours after the arrival of such vessel) at a U.S. or Virgin Islands port or place to the nearest customs facility or to such other place as may be prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury. Authorizes the Secretary to prescribe regulations which provide the manner in which arrivals are to be reported and which extend the time (not beyond 24 hours) after the arrival of any vessel in which to report such arrival. Restricts the arrival of vehicles in the United States at border crossing points designated by the Secretary. Requires a person in charge of such vehicle (immediately upon the arrival of such vehicle in the United States) to report such arrival to, and present such vehicle, and all persons and merchandise (including baggage) on board such vehicle, for inspection to the customs officer at the customs facility. Requires the pilot of any aircraft arriving in the United States from a foreign airport or place to comply with such advance notification, arrival reporting, and landing requirements as the Secretary may prescribe by regulations. Authorizes any vessel, vehicle, or aircraft which has arrived in the United States to depart from the port, airport, or place of arrival and from any custom facility designated to serve such places and discharge passengers and merchandise (including baggage), only in accordance with such regulations as the Secretary may prescribe. Requires any owner of a ship, person in charge of a vehicle, or pilot of an aircraft which arrives in the United States to present to the appropriate customs officer such documents, papers, and manifests as the Secretary may prescribe by regulations. Sets forth both civil and criminal penalties for violations of such arrival, reporting, and entry requirements. Increases the fine from $500 to $5,000 (and $10,000 for each subsequent violation) for persons in charge of a vessel or vehicle who fail to make a report or entry to the appropriate customs officials before departure from any collection district. Increases the fine from $500 to $1,000 (for the first passenger and $500 for each additional) for such persons who permit the unloading of passengers from such vessels or vehicles without a special license or permit issued by the appropriate customs officer. Sets forth both civil and criminal penalties for persons in charge of a vessel or vehicle (arriving in the United States from a contiguous country) who: (1) depart from a designated customs facility without appropriate authorization; or (2) present a forged, altered or false manifest, document, or paper to a customs officer. Increases the fines for persons in charge of any vehicle who: (1) lack or falsify a manifest; or (2) transport specified controlled substances. Increases both the civil and criminal penalties for such persons who allow any merchandise (including sea stores) to be illegally unladen within the customs waters of the United States. Prohibits: (1) any U.S. citizen on board any aircraft to manufacture or distribute, or possess with the intent to manufacture or distribute a controlled substance (including the introduction of such substances into the United States, any of its territories or possessions, or within a 12 mile distance of the U.S. coast); and (2) any person from transferring any controlled substances, spirits, wines, or other alcoholic liquors between an aircraft, or vessel (that is owned by a U.S. citizen, or is registered in the United States) on the high seas or U.S. customs waters, or regardless of the nationality of such vessel or aircraft. Prohibits any such transfer with the intent to introduce such substances into the United States. Sets forth civil penalties. Provides for the seizure, forfeiture, and sale of merchandise (that is involved in a conveyance) whenever any vessel, vehicle, or aircraft, or the owner, driver, or pilot of such vessel has violated the customs laws of the United States. Prohibits any conveyance used by a person as a common carrier (in the transaction of business as a common carrier) from being subject to seizure or forfeiture under the customs laws for violations relating to merchandise that is contained in baggage belonging to a legally transported passenger, or that is in the conveyance's cargo, if such cargo is listed on the carrier's manifest. Provides for the seizure and forfeiture of any controlled substance (on board a conveyance that is used as a common carrier in the transaction of business as a common carrier) which is not manifested, or whose markings disagree with such manifest, or is found concealed in or on the conveyance (but not in the cargo). Permits a person authorized to make searches and seizures (in any dwelling house or building) to apply for a warrant from the appropriate authorities if such person suspects the presence of any property that is subject to forfeiture under the customs laws or any documents, containers, or other articles which evidence violations of such laws. Provides for the seizure and forfeiture of merchandise that is or has been introduced, or attempted to be introduced, into the United States contrary to law. Sets forth specified procedures with respect to the disposition of property forfeited under the customs laws. Sets the compensation of informers who report violations of such laws to not more than 25 percent (currently 25 percent). Provides that such compensation shall be paid from the net amount recovered before such net amount is deposited in the general fund of the Treasury or the Customs Forfeiture Fund (currently it is paid out of any appropriations available for the collection of the revenues from customs). Provides (with respect to the tolling of the statute of limitations) that an action to recover a pecuniary penalty is deemed to have been commenced when the appropriate customs officer issues a penalty notice. Authorizes the Secretary to prescribe regulations that authorize customs officers to exchange information with foreign customs agencies and law enforcement agencies with respect to the enforcement of the customs laws. Provides, when authorized by treaty or executive agreement, that the Secretary may station customs personnel in foreign countries. Title II: Miscellaneous Provisions - Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to provide a fine of not more than $5,000 or imprisonment not to exceed two years, or both, of persons (owners of aircraft) who operate an aircraft: (1) that is not registered; (2) during any period the aircraft certificate or registration has been suspended or revoked by the Secretary of Transportation; (3) without a valid airman certificate; (4) without navigation and/or anticollision lights; and (5) with an illegal fuel tank or system installation aboard such aircraft. Subjects any unlawful fuel taken, or system installation, and aircraft to seizure and forfeiture. Increases the fine from $500 to $5,000 for any person who violates specified entry requirements relating to civil aircraft and vessels. Subjects owners of aircraft who transport any controlled substances to specified penalties. Requires any person having an ownership interest in an aircraft for which a certificate of registration has been issued to, upon the sale, transfer, or conveyance of such interest, file within 15 days such notice as the Secretary of the Treasury may provide. Amends Federal law to subject all pleasure vessels, including all persons aboard, to applicable customs regulations under the Tariff Act of 1930. Replaces specified provisions (regarding the smuggling of controlled substances) with provisions relating to the importation or exportation of merchandise, the reporting or transportation of monetary instruments, or the enforcement of the Bank Secrecy Act. Requires every customs officer, in the exercise of his duties, to: (1) make known his character as a customs officer; and (2) have the authority to demand assistance in executing any arrest, search, or seizure. Increases the fine to $1,000 (currently $200, not less than $5) for persons who refuse, without reasonable excuse, to assist a customs officer. Provides that any person (other than an officer or employer of the United States) who renders assistance in good faith shall not be liable for any civil damages as a result of rendering such assistance (provided such person acts as an ordinary, reasonably prudent person). Permits funds appropriated for the U.S. Customs Service to be used for the leasing of space (within the United States) to carry out undercover investigative operations for the detection and prosecution of offenses against the United States that are within the jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Treasury.
United States · United States Congress · 2 October 1985
Fair Trade Wage Act of 1985 - Title I: Minimum Wage Law Applied Extraterritorially - Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to impose minimum wage requirements on U.S. foreign enterprises as defined in the Tariff Act of 1930. Prohibits importing into the United States goods produced by any such employer found in violation of the minimum wage requirements. Title II: Earnings Parity - Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to impose, in addition to any other duty, an earnings parity fee on every article produced by a U.S. foreign enterprise and imported into the United States, in order to equalize the earnings of foreign workers for U.S. foreign enterprise with the earnings of U.S. workers in the same or similar industry and occupational classification. Sets forth the formula for calculating the earnings parity fee. Title III: Trade Adjustment Assistance Trust Fund - Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to establish within the Treasury a Trade Adjustment Assistance Trust Fund. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to transfer to the Trust Fund the amounts collected as earnings parity fees. Requires the Secretary of Labor to hold, and invest part of, the Trust Fund and to report to the Congress annually on the Trust Fund's economic condition. Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: Neutralization of Tax Effects - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to limit the tax deduction under the accelerated cost recovery system for substitute facilities (business facilities outside the United States which were built or bought within five years of taking out of service similar facilities located within the United States). Prohibits taking depreciation or a foreign tax credit on substitute facilities.
United States · United States Congress · 2 October 1985
Corporation for Small Business Investment Charter Act - Amends the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to provide that references to small business investment companies operating under the Act shall be deemed to refer to small business investment companies operating under the provisions of this Act. Includes in the term "small business investment company" any organization which is qualified to conduct business with the Corporation for Small Business Investment. Requires small business investment companies to provide a source of equity capital for incorporated and unincorporated small businesses under such terms as the small business investment company may fix in accordance with the rules of the Corporation. (Currently, such capital is provided by small business investment companies in accordance with the regulations of the Small Business Administration.) Provides that small business investment companies may provide to small businesses: (1) equity investments and loans on a participation or guaranteed basis; and (2) consulting and advisory services on a fee basis. Establishes the Corporation for Small Business Investment. Authorizes the Corporation to: (1) make loans to small business investment companies; (2) purchase preferred securities, debentures, and guarantee debentures issued by such companies; and (3) act as issuer of such securities. Requires the Corporation to establish criteria for the qualification of: (1) small business investment companies to conduct business with such corporation; and (2) small business investment companies whose investments will be made solely in small businesses which will help facilitate the ownership in such businesses by persons who have been hampered by social or economic disadvantages. Permits the purchase of ownership interests in small business investment companies by national banks. Authorizes small business investment companies to: (1) purchase stock issued by the Corporation; (2) borrow money; and (3) issue its debenture bonds, promissory notes, or other obligations under conditions as prescribed by the Corporation. Authorizes and directs the Corporation and the Small Business Administration (SBA) to enter into an agreement in which the Corporation will acquire title to preferred securities and debentures issued by small business investment companies whose policy is to facilitate small business ownership by socially and economically disadvantaged persons, and held by the SBA, and Funds held by the SBA representing the reserve for losses against such preferred securities and debentures. Sets forth the conditions under which the Corporation shall hold such securities, debenture, and loss reserve Funds. Authorizes the Corporation to: (1) enter into agreements regarding the operation of small business investment companies; and (2) issue common and preferred stock. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to purchase obligations issued by the Corporation. Exempts from the securities laws of the United States all stock and obligations issued by the Corporation. Requires the Corporation to adopt rules on conflicts of interest which may be detrimental to: (1) small businesses; (2) small business investment companies; or (3) the Corporation. Requires the accounts of the Corporation to be audited annually. Requires a report of each such audit to be: (1) furnished to the Secretary; and (2) made by the Secretary to the President and the Small Business Committees of the Congress not later than six months following the close of each fiscal year. Requires the Corporation, after the end of each fiscal year, to transmit to the President, the Small Business Committees of the Congress, and the Administrator a report of its operations and activities during each year. Exempts from State usury laws all business loans made by a small business investment company pursuant to this Act. Transfers to the Corporation all title to small business investment company securities that are guaranteed by the SBA and held by the Federal Financing Bank.
United States · United States Congress · 2 October 1985
Legislative and Independent Agencies Small Business Procurement Act of 1985 - Sets forth the policy, findings, and purposes of this Act. Establishes in each Federal agency having procurement powers an Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization that shall provide increased opportunities for certain small businesses to participate in procurements made by legislative and independent agencies. Provides that the management of each office shall be vested in an employee of such agency who shall be known as the Director of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization. Requires the head of each agency, after consultation with the Director of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, to establish specified annual goals for the participation by small businesses, small businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, and women owned small businesses in Government procurement contracts let by such agencies. Sets forth specified agency requirements with respect to the awarding of contracts to small businesses and small businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. Prohibits an agency procurement officer from precluding any small business from being awarded a contract on the basis of the responsibility of the offeror without referring such matter for final disposition to the Director of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization. Requires the Director to certify to agency procurement officers a small business' competency to receive or perform any agency contract. Requires each agency to promptly make payment to small businesses that have provided property or services to such agency. Requires all Federal contracts over $10,000, with specified exceptions, to include a policy clause declaring that small businesses, small businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, and small businesses owned and controlled by women shall have the maximum practicable opportunity to participate in Federal contracts. Requires contracts that are awarded through other than the sealed bid method of procurement and which exceed $1,000,000 for contracts for the construction of any public facility, or $5,000,000 for all other contracts, to contain a clause notifying small businesses of other specified methods of procurement than the sealed bid method. Requires small businesses, before the award of certain contract, to submit to the procurement officer a subcontracting plan which shall provide the maximum practicable opportunity for small businesses, small businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, and small businesses owned by women to participate in the performance of such contracts. Requires such subcontracting plan to be made a material part of the contract. Requires certain specifics in each subcontracting plan (or become ineligible to be awarded the contract). Provides that such subcontracting requirements shall not apply to offerors or bidders who are small businesses themselves. Requires the Director of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization to assist agency procurement officers and small businesses in developing and complying with subcontracting plans. Sets forth both civil and criminal penalties for persons who make false statements with respect to the award of contracts or subcontracts under this Act. Requires each agency with research and development funds to establish annual goals for funding agreements for research or research and development to small businesses. Sets forth specified requirements with respect to the rights to any inventions created by such businesses. Requires each agency to publicize notice of contracting opportunities so as to encourage the maximum practicable participation by small businesses. Provides an exemption from such notice requirement. Requires each agency to provide means whereby offerors and bidders for Government contracts may identify whether they are a small business, a women-owned small business, or a socially and economically disadvantaged small business. Provides for the resolution of disputes with respect to the status of such concern as a small business. Requires each agency, within 90 days after the conclusion of each fiscal year, to submit to specified congressional committees a report on the extent of its compliance with the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 2 October 1985
Amends the Small Business Act to provide that a small business shall not be eligible for assistance under the Small Business Administration's (SBA) small business and capital ownership development program or the award of Government procurement contracts under the small business set-aside program unless the Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development determines that such small business has met not less than 15 percent nor more than 80 percent of specified criteria relating to the competitiveness of such small business. Sets forth: (1) specified criteria and responsibilities for computing the competitiveness of a small business; and (2) circumstances under which such assistance to small businesses or the award of Government procurement contracts shall be denied. Provides that a small business shall be deemed by the SBA to be in the: (1) developmental stage of program participation (with respect to the small business and capital ownership development program) if such small business has met at least 15 percent but less than 70 percent of its criteria of competitiveness; and (2) transitional stage of program participation if such small business has met at least 70 percent of its criteria of competitiveness but has not yet graduated from such program. Defines "graduated". Defines "development investments." Establishes within the Treasury a revolving fund that shall be available to the SBA, without fiscal year limitation, to finance the purchase of development investments from small businesses. Authorizes the Administrator of the SBA to approve joint venture agreements between a small business and another business if such ventures will enhance such small business competitiveness and strengthen the free enterprise system. Sets forth specified conditions with respect to such competition. Provides that a small business that has graduated from the small business and capital ownership development program shall be eligible to receive from the SBA mainstreaming and other specified types of assistance. Prohibits any such assistance to a small business that has achieved or exceeded all of its criteria of competitiveness. Limits to 14 years the period of time that a small business shall be able to receive such assistance. Sets forth specified requirements and procedures with respect to the awarding of Government procurement contracts to small businesses. Requires the SBA within: (1) 60 days after enactment of this Act to conduct meetings with small businesses who participate in the small business and capital ownership development program to ascertain the extent of regulations that are necessary to implement this Act; (2) 120 days after enactment of this Act to publish proposed regulations in the Federal Register; and (3) 210 days after enactment of this Act to publish the final regulations in the Federal Register. Prohibits any SBA employee from performing any of the principal functions of a Business Development Specialist, a loan officer, or a management assistance officer as they relate to this Act unless such employee receives specialized training. Requires the first session of such specialized training to begin within 180 days after enactment of this Act. Repeals a specified section of the Small Business Act relating to the SBA's small business and capital ownership development program.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1985
Amends the copyright law to make permanent the prohibition against importing certain English language books not manufactured in the United States and Canada, denying copyright protection to books imported in violation of this restriction (the manufacturing clause).
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1985
Child Health Incentives Reform Plan - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to deny employers an income tax deduction for group health plan expenses unless such plan includes coverage for pediatric preventive health care. Defines "pediatric preventive health care" for purposes of qualification for such income tax deduction.
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 1985
Simultaneous Nuclear Test-Ban Act - Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President, before January 1, 1986, should declare that the United States will stop testing nuclear warheads and will invite the Soviet Union to meet with the United States to enter into negotiations for the conclusion of a Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty at the earliest possible date. Declares that the United States should continue the cessation of the testing of nuclear warheads so long as the Soviet Union refrains from the testing of nuclear warheads and substantive Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty negotiations are in progress. Expresses the sense of the Congress that during such cessation the President should seek resumption of the comprehensive test ban talks between the United States, Great Britain, and the Soviet Union. Prohibits the United States from obligating or spending any money for testing nuclear warheads during the six-month period beginning on January 1, 1986, if the President does not declare such a cessation of nuclear testing. Authorizes such spending if the President certifies to the Congress that the Soviet Union on or after January 1, 1986, tested a nuclear warhead. Requires the President to include in any such certification: (1) an unclassified report summarizing the basis for the certification; and (2) a classified report describing the Soviet activities that are the basis for the certification. Requires the President to report annually to the Congress on: (1) the progress in nuclear arms control negotiations with the Soviet Union; and (2) whether the President believes that continuation of the cessation of nuclear testing is in the U.S. national security interest.
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 1985
National Adoption Information Clearinghouse Act of 1985 - Amends title X (Population Research and Voluntary Family Planning Programs) of the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a National Adoption Information Clearinghouse to: (1) collect and synthesize data and information concerning all aspects of infant adoption and adoption of children with special needs; (2) compile, maintain, and revise directories of information; and (3) disseminate information regarding adoption.
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 1985
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives condemning the human rights abuses in El Salvador, including the indiscriminate attacks against Salvadoran civilians by the El Salvadoran armed forces.
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 1985
Expresses the sense of the Congress that certain retirement savings plans should be preserved for both taxable and tax-exempt organizations and such plans should remain structured in a manner that will provide incentives for employers and employees to continue the availability and participation in such plans.
United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1985
Bicentennial of the Constitution Coins and Medals Act - Title I: Bicentennial of the United States Constitution Commemorative Coins - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to issue a specified number of five dollar gold coins and one dollar silver coins emblematic of the Bicentennial of the U.S. Constitution. Sets forth certain features of such coins and provides for their sale and issuance. Terminates the minting of such coins after December 31, 1987. Requires the Secretary to deposit in the Treasury all surcharges received from sale of such coins, to be used to reduce the national debt. Title II: Bicentennial of the United States Constitution Commemorative Medals - Directs the Secretary to strike and deliver to the Commission on the Bicentennial of the United States Constitution a specified number of gold, silver, and bronze medals commemorating the Bicentennial. Authorizes the Commission to dispose of such medals at a premium. Terminates the striking of such medals after December 31, 1987.
United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1985
Commends U.S. financial institutions for recognizing the economic instability inherent in the system of apartheid. Urges such institutions to continue calling in loans to South African borrowers as they come due.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1985
Narcotics Control Trade Act - Directs the President to designate a country an uncooperative drug source nation if during any fiscal year beginning after September 30, 1985, such country: (1) was a source of any illicit narcotic and psychotropic drugs or other controlled substances that is significantly affecting the United States; and (2) did not cooperate with the United States in preventing such drugs and substances from affecting the United States by taking specified actions. Directs the President to report to the Congress the name of each such country. Denies the products of each such country most-favored-nation treatment until the President notifies the Congress that such country has made significant progress and will continue to make progress in remedying those policies on which an uncooperative drug source nation designation was based.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1985
Credit Card Interest Rate Limitation Act of 1985 - Amends the Truth in Lending Act to establish a national ceiling on credit card interest rates. Directs the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System to conduct a study of: (1) the relationship between credit card interest rates and the cost of extending such credit; and (2) the degree to which such interest rates reflected competition for new credit card accounts. Requires such report to be submitted to specified congressional committees by June 1, 1986. Provides that such ceiling shall not take effect if such study reveals that the credit rates are competitive with the cost of extending credit.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1985
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President, if the Government of Mexico requests such assistance, should: (1) use existing funds available to the Department of State and the Agency for International Development, including the "borrowing" authority under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, to provide disaster relief for the victims of the earthquake in Mexico on September 19, 1985; and (2) submit a request to the Congress for the authorization and appropriation of such additional disaster assistance as may be necessary. Declares that the Congress will give expeditious consideration to any such request for disaster assistance to Mexico.
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1985
Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1985 - Title I: Title 18 and Related Matters - Amends the Federal criminal code to extend the prohibition against the unauthorized interception of communications to specified types of electronic communications (present law prohibits only the interception of wire and oral communications). Specifies certain exceptions with respect to electronic communications. Extends such prohibitions to the communications of any provider of electronic communication services (present law extends only to communication common carriers). Prohibits the unauthorized access to an electronic communication system in order to obtain or alter information contained in such system. Imposes criminal penalties for the violation of such prohibition. Prohibits any person or entity providing an electronic communication service from knowingly divulging the contents of any communication carried on that service. Provides for specified exceptions to such requirement. Allows the Attorney General or the prosecuting attorney of any State or political subdivision to apply for disclosure of information contained in an electronic communication service. Specifies that such application shall meet the same requirements as that for an application for the interception of wire or oral communications. Allows any person whose electronic communication is intercepted, disclosed, or used to bring a civil action to recover civil damages. (Present law allows a civil action only for the interception or use of wire or oral communications.) Revises the amount of damages which may be recovered by such civil actions. Specifies a two-year statute of limitations for the commencement of such a civil action. Specifies additional crimes for which interception of wire, oral, or electronic communications can be authorized in the course of the investigation of such crimes. Sets forth additional requirements for applications, court orders, and the implementation of court orders for the interception of such communications. Requires that a court order authorizing such interception shall require that reports of specified information be made not less often than every ten days to the judge who issued such order. Title II: Pen Registers and Tracking Devices - Prohibits the installation or use of a pen register or a tracking device without first obtaining a court order pursuant to this Act or under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978. Imposes criminal penalties for violations of such prohibition. Defines "pen register" as a device which identifies the numbers dialed or transmitted on the telephone line to which the device is attached. Defines a "tracking device" as an electronic or mechanical device which permits the tracking of the movement of a person or object in circumstances in which there exists a reasonable expectation of privacy. Authorizes Federal and State law enforcement officers having responsibility for ongoing criminal investigations to apply for a court order allowing the installation and use of a pen register or a tracking device. Sets forth procedures for the application for an issuance of a court order allowing the use of a pen register or tracking device. Allows the issuance of such order if, in the case of a pen register, there is reasonable cause to believe that the information likely to be obtained is relevant to a legitimate criminal investigation. Sets forth requirements for the emergency use of a pen register or tracking device without prior court authorization. Requires a communications common carrier, landlord, custodian, or other person to furnish an authorized law enforcement officer information, facilities, and technical assistance necessary to accomplish the installation and use of a pen register or tracking device if such assistance is directed by court order or an emergency installation is authorized. Requires that anyone providing such assistance shall be compensated for any reasonable expenses incurred. Requires any judge issuing or denying an order for the use of a pen register or tracking device to file a report with the Administrative Office of the United States Courts. Requires the Attorney General and the principal prosecuting attorney of a State to report annually to the Administrative Office of the United States Courts concerning the use of pen registers and tracking devices authorized for use in criminal investigations. Requires the Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts to report annually to the Congress concerning the use of pen registers and tracking devices. Allows any person who is harmed by a violation of this Act concerning pen registers or tracking devices to bring a civil action to recover civil damages. Specifies the type of damages which may be recovered. Specifies a two-year statute of limitations for the commencement of such a civil action.
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1985
Education Technology Act - Title I: Evaluations, Dissemination, and Instructional Models - Directs the National Institute of Education (NIE) and the National Science Foundation (NSF) to jointly: (1) evaluate available computer hardware and software in terms of its usefulness in the classroom; and (2) disseminate the results of such evaluation to State and local educational agencies (SEAs and LEAs). Requires, where appropriate, such evaluation to include assessment of the usefulness of computer hardware and software to serve the special needs of certain special populations described under title II of this Act and of the extent to which the software promotes computer use by students of both sexes. Directs NIE and NSF to carry out such evaluation and dissemination functions under grants to or contracts with non-Federal agencies and private nonprofit institutions or organizations. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1986 through 1995 to NSF and NIE for such purpose. Directs NSF to conduct, assist, and foster research and experimentation on, and dissemination of, models of instruction in the operation and use of computers, educational computer software, and curriculum materials. Requires that this be done through grants to or contracts with professional educational, scientific, or engineering organizations, science museums, regional science education centers, public television, SEAs and LEAs, and institutions of higher education, including community colleges. Directs the NSF, in selecting such entities for such grants or contracts, to give priority to those proposals involving specified types of programs (including, among others, programs involving computer libraries, networks, personal microcomputers, or video disc systems). Permits funds available under such grants or contracts to be used to acquire computer hardware and software and manuals for its use. Requires the NSF Director to: (1) report to the Congress annually on the results of such research and experimentation; and (2) in conjunction with NIE, take steps necessary to disseminate information concerning such results to SEAs and LEAs. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1986 through 1995 for such purposes. Subjects the authority to enter into contracts for such purposes to the availability of appropriations therefor. Title II: Teacher Training Institutes - Directs the NSF, with the cooperation of Federal and other appropriate agencies, to arrange for the development and operation of short-term or regular session institutes for advanced study to improve the qualifications of individuals who teach the operation and use of new and evolving technologies (or individuals who are preparing to do such teaching, or who supervise or train such teachers). Requires that this be done through grants to or contracts with the types of entities described under the provisions for research and experimentation in computer instructional models under title I of this Act. Sets forth provisions relating to special populations (as referred to under title I of this Act). Directs NSF, in making such teacher training grants or contracts, to give special consideration to institutes training teachers (or their supervisors or trainers) who are serving or preparing to serve in elementary and secondary schools enrolling substantial numbers of culturally, economically, socially, and educationally handicapped youth or in programs for children of limited English language proficiency. Requires training program applications to indicate that a portion of the funds will be used to instruct enrollees in methods to ensure equal access to and the use of the computer by students from underserved groups, including female students. Makes individuals who attend such teacher training institutes eligible to receive stipends. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1986 through 1995 to carry out this title. Title III: Acquisition of Computer Hardware - Directs the Secretary of Education to allocate assistance from funds under this title to LEAs for the acquisition of computer hardware for use in school classrooms. Directs the Secretary to allocate to SEAs, from five percent of the funds under this title, assistance for monitoring and enforcement. Bases the allocation to LEAs on the number of children aged five to 17 in their school districts, but reduces such allocations to the extent that such assistance has been or would be in excess of the amount necessary to acquire one unit of computer hardware for each 30 children in average daily attendance at an LEA's schools. Sets forth required contents of LEA applications for such assistance. Sets forth requirements relating to SEA approval of such applications. Sets forth State responsibilities, including State applications relating to such assistance, SEA hearings before final disapproval of any LEA application, general administrative responsibilities, and SEA reports to the Secretary. Sets forth requirements relating to the participation of children from private schools. Requires LEAs to provide for such participation, but allows the Secretary to waive such requirement and arrange for provision of such assistance directly, under specified conditions. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1986 through 1988 to carry out this title.
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1985
National Commission to Prevent Infant Mortality - Establishes the National Commission to Prevent Infant Mortality (Commission). States the duties of the Commission, which include: (1) identifying and examining Federal, State, local, and private resources which affect infant mortality; (2) identifying barriers to the health care needed to prevent high infant mortality; and (3) reviewing and carrying forward appropriate recommendations that promote the health status of childbearing women and their infants. Directs the Commission to: (1) recommend a national policy designed to improve the current approach to preventing infant mortality; (2) recommend specific changes needed in Federal laws and programs; and (3) present such recommendations to the President, the Speaker of the House, and the majority leader of the Senate within one year of enactment of this Act. Sets forth the powers of the commission. States that the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act shall not apply to the Commission. Provides for the termination of the Commission. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1985
Establishes a field sanitation occupational health and safety standard with respect to agricultural employees engaged in hand-labor operations in the field. Provides that such standard shall be deemed to be an occupational health and safety standard promulgated, enforceable, and subject to penalties for violations under specified provisions of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OSHA). Prohibits modification, revocation, or challenge of such standard under specified provisions of OSHA. Provides that this Act shall not preempt any State occupational health and safety standard, or any provision thereof, which is more effective in providing sanitized potable drinking water and toilet and handwashing facilities for agricultural employees than the standard established under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1985
National Schoolbus Safety Act of 1985 - Limits the amount of financial assistance which the Secretary of Education may provide to any State or local educational agency in a State or locality that does not impose certain requirements for inspecting school buses and equipping them with safety belts. Sets forth the initial form of such requirements as follows: (1) equipping those school buses first placed in service after the effective date of this Act with safety belts; and (2) annual safety inspection of all school buses. Limits the amount of financial assistance in cases of noncompliance to not more than: (1) 95 percent of the allocated amount for the first fiscal year beginning after the effective date of this Act; (2) 90 percent for the second such fiscal year; and (3) 85 percent for any subsequent fiscal year. Sets forth final requirements which must be effective on or before January 1, 1995, as follows: (1) equipping all school buses with safety belts; and (2) annual inspections of all school buses. Prohibits any financial assistance to any State or local educational agency in a State or locality which does not have such requirements in effect by such date. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to annually provide the Secretary of Education with information necessary to determine whether a State or local government has in effect the requirements referred to under this Act, if there is an approved highway safety program for pupil transportation safety in effect for such State or local government. Requires the State or local government to provide such information when such a program is not in effect. Makes this Act effective beginning one year after its date of enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1985
Gifted and Talented Children and Youth Education Act of 1985 - Establishes a Federal gifted and talented education (GTE) program to improve the capability of State and local education agencies (SEAs and LEAs) and private nonprofit schools to: (1) identify gifted and talented children and youth; and (2) provide those children and youth with appropriate educational opportunities. Directs the Secretary of Education from specified sums appropriated under this Act and after consultation with the advisory committee established by this Act to make grants to or contracts with SEAs, LEAs, institutions of higher education, or other public and private agencies to assist them in carrying out authorized GTE programs or projects, including personnel or supervisory training. Sets forth authorized GTE programs and projects, including: (1) preservice and inservice training (including fellowships) for GTE personnel (including leadership personnel); (2) model projects and exemplary programs for identification and education, including summer programs and cooperative programs involving business, industry, and education; (3) strengthening SEA and higher education institutions' capability to provide leadership and assistance to LEAs and nonprofit private schools in planning, operating, and improving such programs; (4) technical assistance and information dissemination; (5) research on methods and techniques for identifying and teaching gifted and talented children and youth; (6) conducting program evaluations and surveys; and (7) developing information and analysis. Establishes the National Center for Research and Development in the Education of Gifted and Talented Children and Youth (the National Center) through grants or contracts with one or more higher education institutions or SEAs, or a consortium or combination of such institutions and agencies, to carry out clauses (5), (6), and (7) of the preceding paragraph. Requires the Director of the National Center to carry out such National Center functions as may be agreed upon through arrangements with other higher education institutions, SEAs, LEAs, or other public or private agencies and organizations. Limits to 30 percent of the funds for authorized programs and projects that portion which may be used to conduct activities pursuant to provisions relating to the National Center and its research, evaluation, and information functions. Directs the Secretary and the advisory committee established by this Act, in administering this Act, to give highest priority to programs for: (1) identifying and educating gifted and talented children and youth who may not be identified through traditional assessment measures (such as the limited-English speaking, economically disadvantaged, handicapped, and women); and (2) developing or improving the capability of schools in an entire State or region of the Nation, through cooperative efforts and participation of SEAs, LEAs, higher education institutions, and other public and private agencies and organizations (including business, industry, and labor) to identify and educate gifted and talented children and youth. Sets forth provisions relating to participation of private school children and teachers in programs under this Act. Directs the Secretary to appoint an advisory committee on GTE, with members representative of State education agencies, teacher education institutions, researchers, teachers, and parents. Directs the Secretary to establish or designate an administrative unit within the Department of Education to: (1) administer the programs authorized by this Act; (2) coordinate all GTE programs that the Department administers; and (3) serve as a focal point for national leadership and information on the educational needs of gifted and talented children and youth and the availability of services and programs to meet those needs. Requires that such administrative unit be headed by a person of recognized professional qualifications and experience in GTE. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1987 through 1991.
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1985
Trade Reorganization Act of 1985 - Title I: General Provisions - Sets forth the congressional findings and purposes of this Act. Title II: Department of Commerce and Trade - Establishes the Department of Commerce and Trade to be administered by the Secretary of Commerce and Trade (the Secretary). Sets forth the functions of the Secretary including: (1) exercising responsibility for international trade matters, except for responsibilities delegated to the Secretary of Agriculture; (2) analyzing economic and sectoral trends; (3) developing and implementing commercial policies to expand U.S. business and employment opportunities; (4) promoting new opportunities for U.S. products and services to compete in the world marketplace; (5) assisting small businesses in developing export markets; and (6) administering U.S. laws relating to trade. Requires the Secretary to be Deputy Chair of the National Advisory Council on International Monetary and Financial Policies. Directs the Secretary to consult with the Secretary of Agriculture on all matters which potentially involve international trade in agricultural products. Authorizes the Secretary to assign the head of a Federal agency the responsibility for an international trade negotiation if the subject of the negotiation is related to the functions of the agency. Provides for three Deputy Secretaries of Commerce and Trade and two Under Secretaries of Commerce and Trade. Limits the number of Assistant Secretaries of Commerce and Trade to eight. Provides for a General Counsel, Inspector General, Chief Negotiator for Textile Matters, Director General of the United States and Foreign Commercial Service, and Agricultural Adviser. Sets forth their functions. Transfers to the Secretary: (1) all functions of the U.S. Trade Representative and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative; and (2) specified functions of the Department of Commerce. Sets forth administrative provisions governing the Department of Commerce and Trade. Provides for delegation of the Secretary's authority and succession of officers of the Department of Commerce and Trade. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) reorganize the Department, under certain conditions; (2) prescribe regulations; (3) establish a working capital fund; (4) transfer funds, subject to certain limitations, within the Department; (5) make contracts and payments; (6) accept gifts and bequests, under certain circumstances; and (7) issue publications. Provides for: (1) the Secretary's use of public and private resources; (2) departmental field offices; and (3) travel expenses. Authorizes other entities to use the resources of the Department under certain conditions. Directs the Secretary to report annually to the President on the activities of the Department. Establishes in the Executive Office of the President an Office of the Assistant to the President for International Trade who shall provide the President with policy options on international trade matters and, in cooperation with the Trade Policy Committee, coordinate those policies and activities affecting international trade that are carried out by Federal agencies. Amends the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to establish in the Executive Office of the President a Trade Policy Committee to assist the President in carrying out certain trade functions. Directs the Trade Policy Committee to pay particular attention to expanding the responsibilities of the Department of Agriculture in matters affecting international trade. Sets forth the membership of the Trade Policy Committee. Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to change the membership of the Board of Directors of the Export-Import Bank to include a Deputy Secretary of the Department of Commerce and Trade. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to give the Secretary authority to give policy guidance to the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC). Directs OPIC to carry out a specified trade development program. Makes an Under Secretary of Commerce and Trade the Vice Chairman of OPIC's Board of Directors, ex officio. Amends the Bretton Woods Agreement Act to direct the U.S. executive director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to consult with the Secretary on matters under consideration by the IMF which relate to trade. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, with respect to agricultural trade matters, to: (1) report directly to the President and the Congress; (2) keep the advisers to U.S. delegations to trade conferences informed on U.S. negotiating objectives, the status of negotiations, and the nature of any recommended changes in domestic law or regulations; and (3) consult with State and local governments and other interested parties concerning international agricultural trade matters. Makes certain technical and conforming amendments, repeals certain authority and makes certain terminations. Title III: Transitional, Savings and Conforming Provisions - Makes certain transitional, savings, and conforming amendments. Title IV: Miscellaneous - Sets forth definitions and effective dates. Provides for interim appointments and compliance with the budget. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1985
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the President should consider the appointment of individuals with experience in the small business and agricultural sectors when filling vacancies on the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1985
Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide coverage for services performed by a physician assistant under the supervision of a physician.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1985
Amends the Federal criminal code with regard to the ban on mailing dangerous items to include martial arts weapons within the prohibition. Prohibits mail-order sales to States which have banned the manufacturing, selling, carrying, and possession of such weapons. Authorizes the Postal Service to prescribe regulations for mailing otherwise nonmailable martial arts weapons to certain military, State, or municipal procurement officers or employees, as well as certain bona fide manufacturers or dealers. Exempts knives, swords, and other ceremonial or collector weapons that are otherwise mailable under the prohibition.
![Official portrait of Rep. Mitchell, Parren J. [D-MD-7]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/m000826_200.jpg)