United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1983
Authorizes and requests the President to designate Monday, April 4, 1983, as Swedish-American Friendship Day, in order to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Amity between Sweden and the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1983
Rehabilitation Act Extension of 1983 - Amends the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to extend the authorization of appropriations for grants to states for basic vocational rehabilitation services in specified amounts through FY 1987, and in amounts to be determined by a specified formula for each succeeding fiscal year after FY 1987. Extends the authorization of appropriations for grants to States for innovation and expansion of vocational rehabilitation services through FY 1986 in such sums as may be necessary. Provides that the formula for increases (based on increases in the Consumer Price Index) in the authorization of appropriations for grants to States for basic vocational services shall apply, beginning in FY 1987, in determining amounts for fiscal years subsequent to FY 1987. Extends the authorization of appropriations for research and training in vocational rehabilitation services through FY 1986 in such amounts as may be necessary for: (1) the National Institute of Handicapped Research; and (2) other specified research and training programs. Extends the authorization of appropriations for supplementary services and facilities through FY 1986 in such sums as may be necessary for: (1) construction of rehabilitation facilities, staffing, and planning assistance (to remain available for expenditure for construction projects funded or staffing grants made prior to October 1, 1987); (2) vocational training for handicapped individuals; (3) training of personnel providing rehabilitation services to handicapped individuals; (4) comprehensive rehabilitation centers; (5) special projects and supplementary services; and (6) the Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults. Extends the authorization of appropriations for the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board through FY 1986. Extends the authorization of appropriations for employment opportunities for handicapped individuals through FY 1986 in such sums as may be necessary for: (1) community service employment pilot programs for handicapped individuals; and (2) projects with industry and business opportunities for handicapped individuals. Extends the authorization of appropriations for comprehensive services for independent living through FY 1986 in such sums as may be necessary.
United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1983
Declares that Congress: (1) condemns the violence in Northern Ireland; (2) urges U.S. citizens to refrain from any action which contributes to the violence there; (3) urges the parties to seek an early political settlement that secures the rights of both sides and achieves Irish unity; (4) believes that a reconciliation can be found between the two Irish political traditions and between Great Britain and Ireland; and (5) requests the President to convey to Britain and to Ireland the desire of Americans for lasting peace in Northern Ireland.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1983
Natural Gas Consumer Relief Act - Title I: Contracting and Marketing Practices - Amends the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 to declare a take-or-pay clause of a pipeline contract to be against public policy and unenforceable for a three-year period: (1) to the extent that it requires a pipeline to make any payment with respect to natural gas in excess of 50 percent of the maximum annual volume the pipeline has contracted to take; or (2) if such clause does not entitle a pipeline which makes a payment under such clause to take delivery of the gas during the one year period beginning on the date of payments. Defines "take-or-pay clause" to mean any contract provision which requires payment for the minimum quantity of natural gas contracted for under the contract in the event the pipeline fails to take delivery. Permits a pipeline, in the case of a contract for the first sale of natural gas, to: (1) request the seller to renegotiate the contract; and (2) indicate that, if there is no renegotiation within 30 days of the request, the pipeline will exercise its market-out-option. Permits a pipeline exercising its market out option to refuse delivery without incurring an obligation to pay for any amount of natural gas contracted for if the pipeline in its sole discretion determines that it could not market the gas. Declares any indefinite price escalator clause applicable to the first sale of natural gas to be against public policy and unenforceable. Defines "indefinite price escalator clause" as any provision of any contract which provides for the establishment or adjustment of the price for natural gas delivered by reference to prices for natural gas, crude oil, or any other commodity. Prohibits a pipeline from passing through its costs if the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) determines that the pipeline has failed to adopt practices minimizing amounts paid to purchase natural gas. Declares any minimum commodity beill requirement applicable to any sale of natural gas by any interstate or intrastate pipeline to be against public policy and unenforceable: (1) to the extent it requires the purchaser to make any payment with respect to natural gas in excess of 50 percent of the maximum annual volume the purchaser has contracted to take; or (2) if such requirement does not entitle a purchaser who makes a payment under such requirement to take delivery of the natural gas involved subsequent to the date of payment provided under the requirement. Directs FERC to order an interstate pipeline, upon application by a producer of natural gas or by a purchaser of natural gas from a producer, to carry natural gas, for a just and reasonable consideration, between the producer and purchaser if FERC finds that: (1) the pipeline has available capacity; (2) no undue burden would be placed upon such pipeline by reason of the order; (3) construction of new facilities would not be required; and (4) the order would not impair the ability of the pipeline to render adequate service to its other customers. Directs FERC to complete a rulemaking proceeding to issue standards for interstate pipeline tariffs. Directs FERC to require, by rule, a first-sale purchaser of natural gas to file a copy of the contract with FERC. Title II: Wellhead Price Provisions - Revises ceiling price provisions for natural gas. Provides that the ceiling price for categories other than high-cost gas shall be the January 1982 ceiling price multiplied by the monthly equivalent of the modified price adjustment factor. Defines the "modified price adjustment factor" for any month as the lower of: (1) 75 percent of the quarterly percent change in the GNP implicit price deflator (as defined in the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978); or (2) the percent change in the energy index, computed and published as an annual rate by the Department of Labor, for the most recent month for which such percent change has been so published at least eight days before the beginning of the month for which the modified price adjustment factor is being calculated. Provides that for high-cost gas the maximum lawful price for any first sale shall be 150 percent of the maximum lawful price for categories of gas other than high-cost gas. Provides for an adjusted ceiling price for wells drilled on or after January 1, 1982, and before enactment. Repeals provisions permitting increases in the ceiling price of certain categories of natural gas if just and reasonable. Provides, as a general rule, that the maximum lawful price applies with respect to the recovery of all costs and profits associated with production and first-sale delivery of marketable natural gas. Prohibits the importation of natural gas if the first sale price in the United States of the gas exceeds 150 percent of the maximum lawful price for domestically produced gas. Directs the President to submit to Congress a report on the status of negotiations with Canada regarding modification of the border price for natural gas imported from Canada. Extends price controls and standby authority for two years beyond their present expiration dates.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1983
Rehabilitation Act Extension of 1983 - Amends the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to extend the authorization of appropriations for grants to States for basic vocational rehabilitation services in specified amounts through FY 1987, and in amounts to be determined by a specified formula for each succeeding fiscal year after FY 1987. Extends the authorization of appropriations for grants to States for innovation and expansion of vocational rehabilitation services through FY 1986, in such sums as may be necessary. Provides that the formula for increases (based on increases in the Consumer Price Index) in the authorization of appropriations for grants to States for basic vocational services shall apply, beginning in FY 1987, in determining amounts for fiscal years subsequent to FY 1987. Extends the authorization of appropriations for research and training in vocational rehabilitation services through FY 1986 in such amounts as may be necessary for: (1) the National Institute of Handicapped Research; and (2) other specified research and training programs. Extends the authorization of appropriations for supplementary services and facilities through FY 1986 in such sums as may be necessary for: (1) construction of rehabilitation facilities, staffing, and planning assistance (to remain available for expenditure for construction projects funded or staffing grants made prior to October 1, 1987); (2) vocational training for handicapped individuals; (3) training of personnel providing rehabilitation services to handicapped individuals; (4) comprehensive rehabilitation centers; (5) special projects and supplementary services; and (6) the Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults. Extends the authorization of appropriations for the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board through FY 1986. Extends the authorization of appropriations for employment opportunities for handicapped individuals through FY 1986, in such sums as may be necessary for: (1) community service employment pilot programs for handicapped individuals; and (2) projects with industry and business opportunities for handicapped individuals. Extends the authorization of appropriations for comprehensive services for independent living through FY 1986 in such sums as may be necessary.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1983
Fair Trade Act - Limits the total imports of steel products if the Secretary of Commerce finds that the U.S. capacity for the production of steel products is only utilized at 85 percent or less during any calendar quarter. Directs the Secretary to: (1) determine, for each calendar quarter, the percentage of utilization of the U.S. steel products manufacturing capacity; (2) estimate the domestic consumption of steel products for each calandar quarter which an import limitation is required; (3) compute the total quantity of permissible imports of steel products during each quarter for which an import limitation is required; (4) apportion the total of permissible imports among the supplying foreign countries on the basis of past participation in the U.S. market. Directs the Secretary to certify the computation and apportionment of permissible imports to the Secretary of the Treasury who shall ensure that the steel products are imported in conformity with such computations and apportionments. Establishes the President's Commission on Basic metals. Requires the Commission to review the performance of the U.S. steel products manufacturing industry and to make recommendations to the President and the Congress regarding actions which should be taken to strengthen the industry.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1983
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow individuals with developmental disabilities an income tax deduction for extra commuting expenses incurred as a result of such disability. Extends such deduction to taxpayers who do not otherwise itemize deductions.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1983
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to repeal the highway use tax on heavy trucks. Increases the excise tax on diesel fuel from nine cents per gallon to 12 cents per gallon in 1983 and from 12 cents per gallon to 14 cents per gallon in 1984. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to prescribe regulations exempting from such increases diesel fuel used in automobiles and light trucks.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1983
Declares the findings of the Congress that States should: (1) evaluate teacher training and performance requirements; (2) compare teacher recruitment, selection, training, certification, and licensing in other States; (3) establish commissions on teacher excellence; and (4) recommend to the President and the Congress ways in which public school instruction could be assisted by research, evaluation, new policy initiatives, and changes in existing Federal laws.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1983
Urges the President and the Secretary of Defense to act expeditiously to carry out the National Cemeteries Act of 1973 by arranging for the burial of the remains of an unknown soldier of the Vietnam era in the Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery.
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1983
Reckless Risk Recovery Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose an excise tax on financial institutions which have outstanding loans to foreign governments which are insolvent and receive funds from the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1983
Amends the Payments in Lieu of Taxes Act to repeal the provision which treats entitlement lands within two concurrent units of local government as being, for specified purposes, within the jurisdiction of the smaller of such units. Redefines the term "unit of local government" to mean a unit of that level of local government which, within a State, is the principal provider of governmental services affecting the use of public lands.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1983
Air Travelers Security Act of 1983 - Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to declare congressional policy with respect to the marketing and sale of passenger air transportation. Directs the Civil Aeronautics Board to vacate Order 82-12-85, adopted on December 16, 1982, and to adopt as its final decision in docket numbered 36595 the recommended order of an administrative law judge dated June 1, 1982.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1983
United States Olympic Checkoff Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow taxpayers to designate on their income tax returns a contribution of one dollar of their income tax refunds or any cash amount voluntarily forwarded with their returns to support the U.S. Olympic Trust Fund. Establishes in the Treasury a U.S. Olympic Trust Fund (trust fund). Appropriates to such trust fund an amount equal to the amount designated on tax returns. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to pay amounts so transferred to the U.S. Olympic Committee. Allows specified administrative expenses to be paid from such trust fund.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1983
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the national security policy should reflect a national strategy of peace through strength. Sets forth the principles and goals of such a policy.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1983
Vietnam Veterans Agent Orange Relief Act - Establishes a presumption of service-connected disability for veterans exposed to herbicides during service in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam era who suffer from specified diseases which may be caused by exposure to such herbicides, developed to a ten percent degree of disability. Permits the Administrator of Veterans Affairs to determine what other diseases may be due to exposure to herbicides, chemicals, or environmental hazards. Directs the Administrator to promulgate regulations within one year of enactment incorporating such determinations and setting forth the standards used to reach them.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1983
Enterprise Zone Act of 1983 - Title I: Designation of Enterprise Zones - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for the designation of enterprise zones by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development for purposes of extending the tax incentives and regulatory flexibility measures provided by this Act. Specifies that State and local governments shall nominate areas for such designation. Limits the designation of enterprise zones to 75 nominated areas per year over three years (one third of which such designations shall remain in effect. Specifies that the Secretary may designate such zones only if: (1) the area is within the jurisdiction of the local government; (2) the boundary of the area is continuous; (3) the area has a population of at least 4,000 if any portion thereof is located within a standard metropolitan statistical area (with a population of at least 50,000) or 1,000 otherwise, or is within an Indian reservation; and (4) the area meets specified unemployment and poverty requirements. Requires nominating local governments, as a condition of the Secretary's designation, to agree in writing to follow a course of action which may include reducing tax rates, improving local services, simplifying or streamlining regulation of business, or receiving commitments of private entities to assist employees and residents of the area. Terminates the authority of the Secretary to designate enterprise zones on June 30, 1986, or three years after the publication of regulations pertaining to such zones, whichever is later. Describes areas to which preference shall be given in deciding to designate enterprise zones. Exempts enterprise zones from certain requirements relating to Federal environmental policy. Requires the Secretary to prepare and submit to the Congress every four years a report on the effects of such enterprise zones' designation. Requires that any property tax reduction effected by a local government under the terms of this Act be disregarded for purposes of determining the eligibility of a State or local government for Federal assistance or benefits. States that designation of an enterprise zone shall not give displaced persons from such an area any rights or benefits under the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970. Title II: Federal Income Tax Incentives - Subtitle A: Credits for Employers and Employees - Allows employers located in enterprise zones a nonrefundable income tax credit for increased employment expenditures and employment of the disadvantaged. Allows a three year carryback and 15 year carryover of such credit. Sets the amount of such credit at ten percent of the increase in payroll (taking into account a maximum of $15,000 in wages per year per employee) plus 50 percent of the wages paid to certain disadvantaged workers for the first three years of the enterprise zone designation. Phases out such credit in the last three years of the enterprise zone designation. Disallows a deduction for the portion of wages taken into account for such credit. Allows employees located in enterprise zones a nonrefundable income tax credit equal to five percent of qualified wages earned per year (taking into account a maximum of $9,000 in wages per year). Phases out such credit in the last three years of the enterprise zone designation. Subtitle B: Credits for Investment in Tangible Property in Enterprise Zones - Allows businesses an additional investment tax credit for investment in certain tangible property located in enterprise zones. Limits such credit to five percent for zone personal property and ten percent for new zone construction property, including rental property. Requires that the property subject to such credit be predominantly used in the zone, be purchased after zone designation, and not be acquired from relatives or related corporations. Requires the recapture of such credit upon early disposition of the property. Phases out such credit in the last three years of the enterprise zone designation. Subtitle C: Reduction in Capital Gain Tax Rates - Eliminates the capital gains tax on property of corporations acquired after the enterprise zone designation and used in a zone business. Qualifies certain low-income rental housing located in an enterprise zone for such treatment. Permits property to remain qualified for purposes of the revised capital gains treatment after a designation of an enterprise zone has terminated. Exempts gain from the sale or exchange of property used in a business in an enterprise zone from the computation of the minimum tax. Allows noncorporate taxpayers to deduct from gross income 100 percent of any net capital gain from qualified enterprise zone property. Subtitle D: Rules Relating to Industrial Development Bonds - Provides that limitations on the cost recovery deductions for property financed with tax-exempt industrial development bonds shall not apply to enterprise zone property. Provides that the termination of the small issue exemption shall not apply to industrial development bonds the proceeds of which are used to finance facilities in such enterprise zones. Subtitle E: Sense of the Congress with Respect to Tax Simplification - Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Internal Revenue Service should simplify the administration and enforcement of any provision of the Internal Revenue Code affected by this Act. Title III: Regulatory Flexibility - Revises the definition of "small entity" for purposes of the analysis of regulatory functions to include qualified businesses (as defined in Title II of this Act), governments, and nonprofit enterprises operating within enterprise zones. Authorizes Federal agencies, upon the request of a designating government, to waive or modify rules and regulations which pertain to the carrying out of projects or activities within an enterprise zone. Requires agencies to approve such request if the resulting benefits of job creation, community development, or economic revitalization outweigh the public interest in continuing the rule unchanged. Disallows waiver or modification of a rule that would directly violate a statutory requirement (including the Davis-Bacon Act and Fair Labor Standards Act) or which would present a danger to the public health and safety. Provides that such waivers or modifications of a rule shall remain in effect as long as the zone designations remain in effect. Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to promote the coordination of all enterprise zone programs and consolidate all periodic reports required under such programs into one summary report. Title IV: Establishment of Foreign-Trade Zones in Enterprise Zones - Requires the Foreign-Trade Board to consider on a priority basis, and expedite the processing of, applications for the establishment of foreign-trade zones within enterprise zones. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to give priority to, and expedite applications for, the establishment of ports of entry necessary to establish such zones. States that to the maximum extent practicable foreign-trade zones should be established within enterprise zones.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1983
Tobacco Deregulation Act of 1983 - Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 and the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 to repeal specified tobacco programs, including: (1) price supports; (2) parity payments; (3) review and adjustment of quotas; and (4) marketing quotas. Amends the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954 and the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act to prohibit agricultural commodity assistance for tobacco. Amends the Agricultural Adjustment Assistance Act to prohibit the Secretary of Agriculture from issuing any tobacco handling orders. Makes such provisions applicable to the 1984 and subsequent tobacco crops. Repeals provisions relating to compacts among States providing for the control or production of, or commerce in, tobacco within such States. Withdraws congressional consent to such compacts.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1983
Veterans Administration Adjudication Procedure and Judicial Review Act - Title I: Adjudication Procedures - Codifies, for Veterans Administration (VA) adjudication purposes, the burden of proof and reasonable doubt standards currently provided for by VA regulation. States that a claimant has the burden of submitting sufficient evidence to justify his or her claim, and that if an approximate balance of positive and negative evidence exists regarding the merits of a claim, the VA is to resolve such doubt in favor of the claimant. States that VA subpoenas may be served either by personal delivery or by registered or certified mail. Increases the maximum size of the Board of Veterans' Appeals from 50 to 65 members. Requires the chairman of such Board to submit an annual report to the appropriate congressional committees concerning the Board's current handling of cases and projections for the subsequent fiscal year. Requires the Board to: (1) provide notice to a claimant and an opportunity for a hearing before a decision may be based on "additional official information" received after a Board decision has previously been made; and (2) make its decision exclusively on evidence and material of record in the proceeding. Removes the requirement that new material sufficient to allow the Board to reopen a previously disallowed claim be in the form of official reports. Provides that the Board's discretionary authority to reopen a claim will not be diminished by a judicial decision following an appeal as provided for by this Act. Requires the Board to mail to the claimant notice of its decision and the reasons for such decision. Provides that, upon the request of a claimant, the Board shall provide an independent advisory medical opinion when there exists substantial medical disagreement with respect to a material issue in a veteran's appeal. Sets forth new procedural rules for adjudication hearings regarding: (1) oaths, affirmations, and witness examination; (2) admissibility of evidence; (3) procedural rights of claimants; (4) disqualification of a hearing officer; (5) the record of the proceedings and the claimant's right to examine and obtain a copy of such record; and (6) the exclusiveness of veterans' adjudication procedures and rights prescribed by the Administrator. Requires the Administrator to provide at each stage of the appeal proceedings written notice to a claimant of the claimant's procedural rights. Directs the Administrator to conduct a study of two alternative claims resolution methods: one a new intermediate-level adjudication process; the other an enhanced schedule of formal Appeals Board hearings. Directs the Administrator to report to Congress on such studies. Title II: Veterans Administration Rule Making - Includes the VA's rulemaking procedures under the relevant provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act. Title III: Judicial Review - Provides for judicial review of VA decisions in the Federal court system. States with regard to jurisdiction: (1) the definition of final decision; (2) that judicial review of a final decision in a claim for benefits may be obtained in a civil action brought within 180 days of the Board's mailing of notice of its decision, and that such action shall be brought in Federal district court; (3) that the VA shall file the various materials constituting the record in a case together with its answer to the claimant's complaint; (4) that the court may render a decision on the pleadings; and (5) that the judicial review procedures established under this Act shall not apply to insurance and home loans. States, with regard to the reviewing court's scope of review, that such court: (1) shall decide questions of law and interpret constitutional, statutory, and regulatory provisions, but that questions of fact (unless unsupported by substantial evidence) will not be subject to a trial de novo; and (2) in reviewing a final decision of the VA which is adverse to a party solely because such party failed to comply with VA procedures, may only review questions concerning such procedures. Sets out provisions regarding remand, survival of actions, and appellate review. Title IV: Attorneys' Fees - Authorizes the Administrator to allow attorneys' fees above the present $10 maximum if the appealing party's claim is allowed by the VA after an initial denial. States that such fee shall be the lesser of: (1) the fee agreed upon by the party and attorney; (2) $500, unless the Administrator approves a greater amount; or (3) if the party and attorney have entered into a contingent-fee agreement, not more than 25 percent of the total of any past-due benefits awarded on the basis of such party's claim. Provides for the approval of attorneys' fees, in successful veterans' claims brought before a court, as provided for under this Act. States that such fees shall be determined by such court, and in contingent-fee agreements such fees shall not exceed 25 percent of the total of any past-due benefits awarded on the basis of such claim. Authorizes attorneys' fees of up to $750 in certain unsuccessful veterans' claims. Prohibits the VA from authorizing payment to a claimant's attorney based on past-due benefits unless such benefits are owed as of the date of the VA's or a court's award. States that such provisions regarding attorneys' fees shall only apply to claims for benefits under the laws administered by the VA and shall not apply in cases in which the VA is the plaintiff or in which other attorneys' fees statutes are otherwise controlling. Title V: Effective Dates - Sets forth the effective dates for this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 March 1983
Emergency Shelter for the Homeless Act of 1983 - Title I: General Provisions - Defines terms to be used in this Act. Title II: Grants for Operation of Shelters for Homeless Adults - Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to States, local governments, and nonprofit organizations to pay general operating costs of emergency shelters for homeless adults. Condition the eligibility of a State, local government, or nonprofit organization on requirements that: (1) an emergency shelter is operating in the area served by such entity; (2) such entity operated an emergency shelter some time during the three years preceding the enactment of this Act; and (3) such entity agrees to expend an amount equal to and in addition to the grant amount to operate emergency shelters. Lists grant application requirements, including requirements for: (1) material describing shelters operated by the applicant within the preceding three years; (2) material specifying the bed capacity of shelters operated by someone else; (3) information on the unemployment and vacant housing rates and the number of unrelated individuals living below the poverty level in the area served by the applicant; (4) an assurance that the applicant will repay grant funds not expended for operating emergency shelters; and (5) a report describing a discussion between any State or local government applicant and community representatives concerning emergency shelter expenditures. Directs the Secretary to publish in the Federal Register a notice of the availability of funds for such grants when the amount approved for applicants is less than the amount appropriated for such grants. Authorizes appropriations. Title III: Grants for Renovating and Converting Facilities for Use as Shelters for the Homeless - Permits the Secretary to make competitive grants to States, local governments, and nonprofit organizations to renovate or convert facilities to be used as emergency shelters for the homeless. Sets forth information that must be included in an application for such a grant, including: (1) the number of individuals in the area who need emergency shelters and the number of individuals for whom shelter would be provided; (2) material demonstrating that notice and an opportunity to comment has been provided to the neighborhood in which the facility will be located; and (3) assurances that the applicant will expend, within one year, such grant amount and an additional contribution equal to 25 percent of such amount to renovate or convert such facility and will operate such facility as an emergency shelter for three years and as an emergency shelter, or for another approved public purpose, for four additional years. Requires repayment of 80 percent of grant funds not used as prescribed in this title. Prohibits the Secretary from making any grant that would result in a disproportionate burden on any one section of a locality. Requires the Secretary to publish a notice of the availability of grant funds whenever amounts appropriated exceed amounts approved for such grants. Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: Demonstration Projects relating to Emergency Shelter for the Homeless - Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States, local governments, and nonprofit organizations for the operation of demonstration projects that develop and apply innovative approaches to provide basic services to the homeless. Conditions grant eligibility on an entity's agreement to expend such grant amount plus a contribution equal to ten percent of such amount on such a project. Directs the Secretary to publicize the availability of grant funds when amounts appropriated exceed amounts requested and approved. Authorizes appropriations. Title V: Coordinating Council to Assist the Homeless - Establishes the Federal Coordinating Council on the Homeless. Requires the Council to report to both Houses of Congress within 90 days on: (1) the extent to which existing Federal law providing assistance to the homeless is and can be utilized; and (2) whether assistance currently provided is adequate for the purpose of each Act. Terminates the Council 30 days after it transmits its report. Directs the Secretary to submit a copy of the report to the chief executive officer of each State. Title VI: Federal Assistance for Eligible Homeless People Under SSI Program - Amends the Social Security Act to exclude an emergency shelter from the definition of a "public institution" to allow otherwise eligible shelter residents to receive Supplemental Security Income benefits. Title VII: Tax Incentives for Emergency Shelters and Single Room Occupancy Facilities - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an investment tax credit equal to 25 percent of the qualified expenditures for the construction or rehabilitation of an emergency shelter facility or a single room occupancy facility. Provides for an income tax exclusion of the interest earned on tax-exempt bonds issued to finance qualified shelter facilities.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Vietnam Veterans National Medal Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to coin and sell a medal in honor of the members and former members of the Armed Forces who served in Vietnam. Declares that the Secretary shall offer such medals for sale to the public at a price sufficient to cover the cost of minting and distributing of such medals.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Cigarette Safety Act - Directs the Consumer Product Safety Commission to promulgate, within 24 months, final performance standards for cigarettes and little cigars ensuring a minimal capacity for igniting smoldering fabric fires. Requires publication in the Federal Register, together with detailed reasons, of any decision not to promulgate a standard based on a finding that it is technologically impracticable or economically unreasonable. Authorizes the Commission to prohibit manufacturers from stockpiling such products to which such standards apply. Provides for judicial review of such standards in an appropriate U.S. court of appeals. Declares such cigarette safety standards to be subject to all remedial and penalty provisions of the Consumer Product Safety Act. Authorizes appropriations necessary to carry out this Act for the first three fiscal years beginning after enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment and Adoption Reform Act Amendments of 1983 - Title I: Amendments to the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act - Amends the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services, through the National Center on Child Abuse and Neglect, to include, in a study and investigation of the national incidence of child abuse and neglect, a determination of those incidents of child abuse and neglect which involve the denial of nutrition, medically indicated treatment, general care, or appropriate social services to infants at risk with life- threatening congential impairments. Requires that the study's findings be submitted, with recommendations for administrative and legislative changes, to the Congress within two years after the effective date of this Act. Directs the Secretary, in consultation with the Advisory Board on Child Abuse and Neglect, to provide technical assistance and training to States for development and implementation of procedures to be followed by appropriate agencies or individuals to insure that nutrition, medically indicated agencies or individuals to insure that nutrition, medically indicated treatment, general care, and appropriate social services are provided to infants at risk with life-threatening congenital impairments. Requires that such procedures be in place throughout the State within one year after enactment of this Act, in order for a State to qualify for grants for child abuse and neglect prevention and treatment programs. Requires the establishment of procedures for any interested person to report to the appropriate authorities denial of such care or services to such an infant. Requires that such requirements also apply to child abuse and neglect programs and projects assisted under specified provisions of the Social Security Act. Extends through FY 1987 the authorization of appropriations for child abuse and neglect and sexual abuse of children prevention and treatment programs or projects. Revises the definition of "sexual abuse of children," for purposes of such prevention and treatment program provisions. Makes technical and conforming amendments. Title II: Amendments to the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment and Adoption Reform Act of 1978 - Amends the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment and Adoption Reform Act of 1978 to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to review all model adoption legislation and procedures developed or promulgated under such Act for the purpose of making appropriate changes to facilitate adoption opportunities for infants at risk with life-threatening congenital impairments. Extends through FY 1987 the authorization of appropriations to carry out such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
World War I Veterans Service Pension Act - Directs the Administrator of Veterans Affairs to pay (in addition to any pension already paid) a monthly pension of $150 to each veteran of World War I who meets specified service requirements and to certain surviving spouses.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Amends the Federal criminal code to impose mandatory minimum sentences for committing violent felonies against individuals aged 65 or over. Prohibits suspended, probationary, and concurrent sentences. Prohibits parole and any plea bargaining agreements that would result in the defendant's serving less than the minimum sentence.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Designates May 21, 1983, as National Sakharov Day. Authorizes and requests the President to: (1) call upon all nations to designate May 21, 1983, as National Sakharov Day; (2) urge the Soviet Union to permit the Sakharovs to freely choose their place of residence; and (3) direct the American delegation to the United Nations to introduce a resolution in the General Assembly calling upon that body to designate May 21, 1983, as International Sakharov Day.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1983
Administrative Rulemaking Reform Act - Amends the Administrative Procedure Act to revise rulemaking requirements. Exempts from notice and comment requirements: (1) only those matters pertaining to military or foreign affairs functions which are properly classified under executive order to be kept secret in the interest of the national defense or foreign policy; and (2) temporary emergency rules. Eliminates the current exemption for: (1) matters concerning public property, loans, grants, benefits, or contracts; (2) interpretive rules; and (3) general policy statements. Directs a Federal agency to: (1) make a reasonable attempt to notify persons likely to be affected by a proposed rulemaking; and (2) send a notice of a proposed rulemaking to any person requesting it. Requires each rulemaking notice to include: (1) the purpose, projected effective date, and text of the proposed rule; and (2) a list of the studies upon which the agency intends to rely in the rulemaking. Pemits an agency to: (1) invite persons representing different points of view to submit suggestions regarding the content of a proposed rule; or (2) create an advisory committee to report such suggestions. Directs an agency to give interested persons 45 days after notice of a rulemaking to submit written comments on the proposed rule. Permits an agency to extend such period and to hold hearings to receive oral comments. Requires an agency to: (1) implement appropriate procedures to resolve any controversial factual issue which will materially affect the substance of a proposed rule; and (2) state its resolution of such issue not later than the date the final rule is published. Requires each agency to maintain a public file of all relevant material and required statements for each rulemaking as well as the objections to the rule and the reasons for rejecting those objectives. Sets forth the procedure for the promulgation of a rule to replace an emergency rule. Terminates an emergency rule 210 days after it is issued or on the effective date of the rule replacing it, whichever occurs first. Declares that no person shall be required to comply with a rule adopted not in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act, but permits a person to challenge such rule or raise it as a defense in an agency proceeding or a criminal prosecution. Directs an agency to submit a copy of each rule promulgated, with specified exceptions, to each House of Congress. Declares that the rule shall not become effective if: (1) within 60 days of continuous session of Congress (days) one House adopts a concurrent resolution disapproving the rule and the other House does not disapprove such resolution within 30 days thereafter; or (2) within 60 days a committee of either House has reported or been discharged from consideration of such a resolution and within 90 days both Houses have adopted it. Prohibits an agency from promulgating a new rule identical to one disapproved unless a statute affecting the subject matter of the rule is adopted. Authorizes either House to adopt a resolution directing agency reconsideration of a rule, other than an emergency rule. Declares that a new rule shall not become effective if: (1) within 60 days after it is promulgated a committee of either House has reported or been discharged from consideration of such a resolution; and (2) within 90 days after the rule is promulgated either House has adopted such resolution. Directs an agency to reconsider and repromulgate a revised rule within 60 days after such a resolution is adopted or the rule shall lapse. Requires an agency to repromulgate an existing rule within 180 days after the adoption of a resolution of reconsideration with respect to such rule or the rule shall cease to be effective. Sets forth House and Senate procedures for considering such resolutions of disapproval or reconsideration. Directs a court reviewing an agency rule to set aside any rule found to be unwarranted by material in the rulemaking file.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1983
Title I: Consumer Credit - Consumer Debtor Bankruptcy Amendments Act of 1983 - Amends the Bankruptcy Code to permit a bankruptcy court to dismiss a case or suspend all proceedings if it determines that a debtor whose debts are primarily consumer debts does not need the provisions of the chapter under which relief has been sought and the granting of relief under such chapter would be a substantial abuse of its provisions. Requires the Clerk of each Federal judicial district to compile statistics regarding debtors where debts are primarily consumer debts. Requires the bankruptcy judge to convene, and permits such judge to preside at, any meeting of creditors and to perform such additional judicial duties as may be required. Declares that the value of the creditor's interest in the estate's interest in consumer goods property shall be determined in light of the purpose of the valuation and of the proposed disposition or use of such property, and in conjunction with any hearing on such disposition or use or on a plan effecting such creditor's interest. Declares that the value of consumer goods which the debtor seeks to redeem in liquidation shall be presumed to be the established resale market price, if such market exists. Permits the court to utilize other methods of valuation if no such market exists or if the court determines that resale value is inappropriate in light of the property's proposed use or disposition. Requires the debtor in bankruptcy cases to file a statement of estimated income and expenses for the year following filing of his petition. Requires the debtor, if the schedule of assets and liabilities include consumer debts secured by property of the estate, to file and serve upon each creditor holding such security and upon the trustee, a statement expressing the debtor's intention with respect to retention or surrender of the collateral. Requires the debtor, at or before the meeting of creditors provided for by such title, to perform his intention with regard to such secured creditors. Requires that the notice of meeting of the creditors be accompanied by a copy of the statement of estimated income and expenses and that the debtor supply the clerk of the court, upon the filing of the petition, with enough copies of such statement to accommodate the listed creditors. Requires individuals filing for bankruptcy in joint or consolidated cases to elect either the Federal or State exemptions. Places an aggregate limit of $3,000 on the value of the exemption with regard to household goods and personal effects. Prohibits the debtor from utilizing the unused dollar value of the homestead exemption to exempt additional property not explicitly provided for by such Act. Repeals the provisions of such Act which currently authorize the debtor to avoid nonpurchase money security interest in property. Presumes nondischargeable any debt incurred on or within 40 days before the date of the filing of a petition under such title. Allows for rebuttal of such presumption. Allows creditors to enforce liens which have not been avoided in bankruptcy. Permits reaffirmation of consumer debts subject to the debtor's right to rescind any such agreement within 60 days or until a discharge is received, whichever occurs later. Declares that at the meeting of creditors the court shall inform the debtor of the nature and effect of a discharge and of any reaffirmation of debt. Prohibits the custodian from being an assignee under a general assignment for the benefit of the debtor's creditors that was appointed or took possession more than 120 days before the date of the filing of the petition. Permits the trustee or the court, however, to require such an assignee to file an accounting. Limits the trustee's power to avoid liens or recover payments made within 90 days of the filing of the petition in bankruptcy (within one year in the case of an insider) unless the creditor had reasonable cause to believe the debtor was insolvent. Permits the court, upon notice and hearing, to require a creditor to accept payments in redemption of the value of a claim secured by a nonpossessory, nonpurchase money security interest in tangible personal property, over a reasonable period not to exceed five years, if such tangible personal property consists of specified household goods and tools of the debtor's trade. Permits the court, upon notice and hearing, to avoid any lien in whole or in part, if the court finds;: (1) that the debtor has no reasonable ability to pay the redemption value of such property out of anticipated future income; and (2) the enforcement of such lien would impose undue hardship on the debtor. Allows a creditor, upon 10 days notice to the debtor and codebtor, to collect any portion of a debt from the codebtor which is not being paid by the debtor through the adjustment of debts of such debtor with a regular income. Requires payments under an adjustment of debts payment plan to commence within thirty days after the filing of the plan. Provides for the return of such funds after deducting the costs of administration if no plan is confirmed. Provides for the separate classification of codebtor claims and non-dischargeable claims and authorizes payment of them under an adjustment of debts payment plan. Allows a debtor to choose such a repayment plan of up to five years. Bases such repayment upon the debtor's ability to repay out of future income after taking into account the basic living necessities for the debtor and dependents. Provides for an early discharge of debts where a reasonable portion of unsecured claims are paid. Permits a hardship discharge of otherwise non-dischargeable debts to the extent the debtor attempted to pay such debts under an adjustment of debts payment plan, but was prevented from so doing by unforeseen circumstances. Title II: Agricultural Produce - Agricultural Produce Bailment Bankruptcy Amendments Act of 1983 - Requires bankruptcy courts to give priority to allowed unsecured claims of farmers arising from the sale or conversion of farm produce to or by a debtor who operates a farm produce storage facility. Specifies that such sale or conversion must have occurred within 180 days before the filing of the petition or before the cessation of the debtor's business, whichever occurs first. Limits the payment of any such claim to $2,000 per individual. Permits a bankruptcy court to expedite the procedures for determining interests in and the disposition of grain and proceeds held by debtors who own or operate grain storage facilities. Requires the court to expedite such procedures if requested by a trustee or a claimant. Sets forth factors for the court to consider before deciding whether to shorten the time periods for procedures. Lists the procedures which may be expedited. Specifies administration details. Title III: Miscellaneous - Declares that if any provision of this Act or the application thereof to any person or circumstances is held invalid the provisions of every other part and their application shall not be affected thereby. Makes the provisions of this Act effective 90 days after enactment. Declares that the amendments made by this Act shall not apply to cases pending before the date of enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1983
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the proposed changes by the Office of Management and Budget to Circular A-122 that would prohibit Federal reimbursement of Government contractors and grantees for the cost of activities constituting political advocacy should be withdrawn permanently.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1983
Amends the National Labor Relations Act to authorize the Secretary of Labor to prohibit the awarding of Federal contracts to persons who have violated certain judicial orders or orders issued by the National Labor Relations Board. Limits the period of such ban to not more than three years after the Secretary has certified the identify of such person to the Comptroller General. Permits the awarding of Federal contracts to such person during the period of the ban if the Federal agency or department, after notice and opportunity for hearing to all interested parties, certifies to the Secretary that there is no other source for the material or services furnished by such person.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1983
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose a temporary excise tax of $2 per barrel on imported petroleum products. Terminates such tax on March 31, 1984. Requires that funds raised by such tax be used to reduce the public debt.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1983
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should: (1) consider appointing a high level official as the President's personal representative in seeking a solution to the Cyprus conflict and the differences between Greece and Turkey with regard to the control of the Aegean Sea; (2) call upon Turkey to withdraw its forces and colonists from Cyprus; and (3) pursue every appropriate avenue to seek a prompt resolution. States that international security assistance for Turkey shall be suspended unless a Presidential certification, containing specified requirements, is in effect and the Congress approves such certification.
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1983
Title I: Emergency Mathematics and Science Education Assistance - Emergency Mathematics and Science Education Act - Amends the National Defense Education Act of 1958 to add a new program (as title VI of such Act) for emergency mathematics and science education at elementary, secondary, and postsecondary levels. Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Education to provide elementary and secondary education assistance (Part A) under such title VI program for FY 1984 and 1985. Conditions such authorization upon increased appropriations under specified provision of the Education Consolidation and Improvement Act of 1981. Sets forth provisions for allocation of Part A program funds. Directs the Secretary of Education to reserve part A program appropriations for any fiscal year: (1) one percent for allocation among Guam, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands; and (2) one-half of one percent for payment to to the Secretary of the Interior for use in Bureau of Indian Affairs schools. Requires that the remainder be allocated among the States (and the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico) according to a specified formula. Permits the State educational agency (SEA) to reserve up to 25 percent of such a State allocation for the conduct of State programs, planning, and administration. Requires the remainder of the State allocation to be allocated by the SEA among the local education agencies (LEAs) in proportion to their most recent allocations under chapter I of the Education Consolidation and Improvement Act of 1981. Requires LEAs to use Part A program funds for: (1) needs assessment; and (2) in-service teacher training. Permits remaining funds to be used for discretionary activities to improve mathematics and science education. Sets forth requirements for LEA applications to the SEA for such funds. Requires SEAs to use Part A program funds for: (1) in-service teacher training; (2) expenses related to teacher attendance at specified summer institutes; and (3) matching grants to LEAS to operate joint programs with other public or private groups (at least 20 percent of the SEA program allocation must be used for such grants). Permits remaining funds to be used for discretionary activities to improve mathematics and science education. Limits to 12 percent that portion of the SEA allocation which may be used for Part A program administrative costs. Requires that Part A program funds be used only to supplement, not supplant, funds from non-Federal sources. Requires SEAs and LEAs to ensure equal educational opportunity and the full participation of traditionally underrepresented groups, including women, racial, and ethnic minorities, in Part A programs. Requires SEAs and LEAs to provide for the participation of private school children and teachers in Part A programs. Requires that Part A program funds and property derived from such funds, must be controlled and administered by a public agency. Requires that Part A program State plans and LEA applications for FY 1985 and thereafter contain an evaluation of programs conducted. Directs the Secretary to use the national diffusion network to disseminate information on particularly successful programs under Part A. Sets forth provisions for postsecondary assistance (Part B) under the title VI emergency mathematics and science education program. Requires that specified funds be used to award national teaching scholarships to up to 5,000 individuals for FY 1984 and 10,000 individuals for FY 1985. Limits such scholarships to an amount equal to the tuition and fee expenses of any recipient for two academic years of undergraudate or graduate education. Authorizes the Secretary to reserve up to 30 percent of the funds for such scholarships to make awards to individuals who are currently teachers for one year of study at an institution of higher education. Sets forth provisions for eligibility and nomination of national teaching scholars. Provides that a committee chaired by the Librarian of Congress shall select national teaching scholars. Obligates each national teaching scholar to: (1) teach elementary or secondary school mathematics, science, foreign languages, or other appropriate subject for two years for each year of the scholarship; or (2) repay the total amount of the scholarship, plus interest at a rate prescribed by the Secretary. Provides that such scholarships shall not be considered in determining eligibility for student assistance under the Higher Education Act of 1965, but that the sum of such assistance and such scholarship shall not exceed the cost of attendance. Directs the Secretary to make specified funds for FY 1984 or 1985 available for competitive grants to institutions of higher education for undergraduate mathematics, science, and foreign language curriculum improvement and faculty development programs to improve instruction for students who have or are pursuing teaching certificates. Reserves 25 percent of funds for such programs for institutions which serve a high proportion of low income students and which are thus eligible for assistance under title III of the Higher Education Act of 1965. Directs the Secretary, from specified funds for FY 1984 or 1985, to make grants to institutions of higher education to support summer institutes and workshops for supervisors and certified teachers in elementary and secondary schools to improve their instructional skills and knowledge in mathematics, science, and foreign language, or other areas determined by Secretary. Permits such institutes to involve the cooperation of advanced technology firms and other private industries. Authorizes the Secretary, upon SEA request, to make grants to other public teacher training agencies established by the SEA before January 1, 1983. Directs the Director of the National Institute of Education, in consultation with appropriate Federal agencies, to investigate effective instructional methods and programs in mathematics, science, and foreign languages. Authorizations appropriations for such purpose to the Department for FY 1984 and 1985, to be made available to the National Institute of Education and the Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education. Limits the total amount which may be appropriated pursuant to provisions for Part B postsecondary assistance for FY 1984. Requires that, of such total amount, at least: (1) 40 percent be available for national teaching scholarships; (2) 15 percent be available for postsecondary mathematics, science, and foreign language improvement; and (3) 35 percent be available for summer institutes. Authorizes appropriations to the Department for FY 1985 to carry out a program of teacher initiative grants (Part C). Allocates Part C program appropriations among the States in the same manner as required by Part A program provisions. Requires that States use Part C programs funds to make grants to teachers, who have completed inservice or other training under Parts A or B programs, for teacher-initiated projects to improve mathematics, science, and technology education. Prohibits any State from reserving more than one percent of Part C program funds for state administration and assistance to teachers in formulating Part C programs. Revises specified definitions under the National Defense Education Act of 1958 to conform to those under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 and the Higher Education Act of 1965. Amends the General Education Provisions Act to extend through FY 1985 the authorization of appropriations for the Minority Institutions Science Improvement program. Title II: National Engineering and Science Personnel - National Engineering and Science Personnel Act of 1983 - Declares that it shall be the continuing policy of the United States to maintain an adequate supply of technical, engineering, and scientific personnel to insure U.S. technological strength and security. Directs the President to take all necessary actions coordinate Federal departments and agencies in carrying out this policy. Declares that primary responsibility for developing policies of Federal support of research and development and of science, engineering, and technical personnel lies with the Office of Science and Technology Policy in the Executive Office of the President. Establishes within the National Science Foundation (NSF) a special Engineering and Science Personnel Fund to promote and develop the quality of U.S. technical, engineering, and scientific personnel resources. Directs NSF to administer the Fund and, in directing policy for the Fund, to consider current and predicted supply and demand for trained personnel. Requires that grants from the Fund be matched by other private or public sector funds. Establishes the Fund for only five years after enactment of this title, requiring specific congressional authorization for Fund continuance beyond such period. Directs NSF to report to the Congress at least biennially concerning expenditures under the Fund. Sets forth the following priorities for use of the Fund, with minimum required expenditures for some priorities: (1) recruitment and retention of new engineering faculty, (2) two-year and community college faculty and instructor development in high technology fields (20 percent minimum expenditures); (3) development of programs of instructional instrumentation and systems for postsecondary technical, engineering, and scientific education, with special emphasis on computer accessibility (15 percent minimum expenditures); (4) pre-college science and mathematics education and training, including programs promoting cooperation and exchange of resources and personnel with industry and other elements of the private sector (15 percent minimum expenditures); (5) public understanding of science and mathematics; (6) developing and disseminating instructional materials and resources for improved education in engineering, mathematics, and science, and (7) four-year college faculty and instructor development in high technology fields, including instructional development and instrumentation. Makes the Office of Science and Technology Policy responsible for coordination of the activities of the Department of Education and the NSF under this Act, except for activities under provisions for the "Part A" program of elementary and secondary assistance for emergency mathematics and science education. Requires the Department and the NSF to report jointly to the Congress on their activities under this Act, within one year from the date of enactment and biennially thereafter. Authorizes appropriations to the Engineering and Science Personnel Fund for FY 1984 through 1988.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1983
Amends the Federal criminal code to establish penalties for any person who takes, by force, violence, or intimidation, a controlled substance from a pharmacist. Prohibits the granting of probation or parole to any such offender.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1983
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit an income tax deduction from gross income for adoption fees, court costs, attorney's fees, and other expenses incurred in the adoption of a child.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1983
Tenant Rental Contribution Act of 1983 - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to declare that income limits for occupancy and rents in public housing shall be fixed by the public housing agency and approved by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Decreases from 30 to 25 the percentage of a tenant's adjusted income payable as rent for: (1) public housing under such Act; (2) rental housing assisted under the National Housing Act; or (3) rental housing assisted through the rent supplement program of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1965. Applies the definitions of the terms "income" and "adjusted income" under the United States Housing Act of 1937 to such other Acts. Amends such definitions to specify: (1) amounts to be excluded from "income"; and (2) amounts to be deducted from "income" to determine "adjusted income."
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1983
Increases from 26 to 30 the number of members of the Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations, by adding: (1) one elected officer of a local government of an area with a population of less than 10,000 and one elected school board member, to be appointed by the President; and (2) one judge of a U.S. court of appeals or district court and one chief justice or judge of a State court of last resort, to be appointed by the Chief Justice of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1983
Solar Energy National Security and Employment (SENSE) Act of 1983 - Title I: Use of Solar and Other Renewable Forms of Energy Developed By Private Sector - Renewable Energy Small Business Development Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the energy percentage for energy property which is used in determining the qualified investment tax credit. Treats biomass recycling equipment as biomass property and includes biomass property as "energy property" for purposes of the energy percentage. Eliminates the requirement that the primary energy sources for a facility producing alcohol for fuel purposes not be oil or natural gas or a product of either one in order for such alcohol to be treated as "qualified fuel" for purposes of the energy percentage. Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to require that a minimum of 12 percent of the loan authority of the Export-Import Bank in any fiscal year be made available only to businesses with $25,000,000 or less in previous-year sales and include an amount of loan authority for renewable energy transactions that is appropriate to the demand for such loans. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to require that the rates for purchases by an electric utility of electric energy from any qualifying cogeneration facility or qualifying small power production facility be established at the incremental cost of alternative electric energy of such utility, unless the State regulatory authority or a nonregulated electric utility determines that a different rate would encourage cogeneration and small power production, would not discriminate against cogenerators and small power producers, and would be in the consumers' and the public's interest. (Currently, such rates must be just and reasonable to the consumers and in the public interest and must not discriminate against cogenerators and small power producers.) Requires a cogeneration facility or small power production facility to pay reasonable interconnection costs incurred by an electric utility which is required to offer to interconnect with such facility. Requires the U.S. Trade Representative to issue policy guidance to departments and agencies with respect to international trade issues involving renewable energy. Amends the Small Business Innovation Development Act of 1982 to require that a reasonable portion of the funds appropriated for nonnuclear programs of the Department of Energy be set aside for renewable energy and energy conservation businesses. Title II: Renewable Energy National Security - Renewable Energy National Security Act of 1983 - Requires the Secretary of a military department, when procuring energy systems, to procure systems that include energy-conserving equipment. Includes biofuels as a renewable form of energy for purposes of energy systems procurement by a military department. Requires the Secretary of Defense to provide for the use of biofuels in meeting Department of Defense energy needs to the extent feasible and consistent with overall defense needs. Requires the Secretary of Defense to encourage the use of energy-conserving devices and equipment in military construction projects, including family housing projects, where practical and economically feasible. Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to include spoilt and contaminated grains among the accumulated stocks of agricultural commodities which the Commodity Credit Corporation may process into liquid fuels. Authorizes the Corporation to provide for the storage of liquid fuels so processed for use by the agricultural sector during periods of fuel shortages. Requires the Corporation to provide for the processing of spoilt and contaminated commodities into liquid fuels before the processing of stocks of usable feedstock. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to require the Secretary of Energy to maintain a data base on the location of all stockpiles of renewable energy supplies and biofuels and of all renewable energy production facilities in the United States. Requires that such data be made available to Government departments and agencies upon request. Requires the Secretary of Defense to assess and report to the Armed Services Committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate on the feasibility of using mobile energy systems that use renewable energy as emergency backup energy systems at military installations. Title III: Federal Training and Economic Development Programs to Create Jobs in Energy Conservation Industries - Part A: Short Title; Findings - Renewable Energy Employment Act - Sets forth the short title of this title and congressional findings. Part B: Job Training in Renewable Energy - Requires the Secretary of Labor to review all Federal job training or placement programs and to implement policies, procedures, and programs to develop a labor force skilled in energy conservation, weatherization of homes, and the use of renewable energy technologies. Part C: Housing and Community Development Programs - Amends the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act of 1976 to require the Secretary of Energy to maintain information on: (1) the areas to be served under the weatherization assistance program; (2) methods for providing priority assistance to elderly and severely handicapped low-income persons; (3) outreach activities with respect to such program; (4) labor plans; (5) policies to ensure that owners and renters are treated equitably; and (6) plans to ensure participation by Native Americans under such program. Requires the Secretary and the Director of the Community Services Administration to include in the annual report to the President and Congress on the weatherization program an evaluation of the effect of such program on energy conservation and employment. Authorizes appropriations for the weatherization program for FY 1984 and succeeding fiscal years. Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to include the potential for local energy development, including energy conservation and renewable energy use, among the factors which must be taken into account by the standards issued by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development for determining the eligibility of cities and urban counties for urban development action grants. Includes among the activities of Community Development Programs which are eligible for assistance under such Act those amounts spent for energy needs. Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make loans for energy conservation and renewable energy development or retrofit for housing in rural areas. Requires Federal agencies administering financial assistance programs for economic development or job creation to consider the development of energy conservation and renewable energy as significant criteria for the provision of such assistance. Part D: Promotion of Sustainable Agriculture - Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to include as non-fossil energy systems windmills, anaerobic digesters, alcohol distilleries, microhydroelectric generators, gasifiers, and solar heating systems. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture, in making loans to farmers and ranchers, to promote sustainable agriculture (a set of agricultural production practices which are designed to produce long term, sustainable yields of agricultural products, involve the use of renewable resources, and avoid the use of chemical products). Amends the Rural Development Act of 1972 to require that small farm extension programs assist small farm families in carrying out sustainable agriculture. Provides that sustainable agriculture extension programs shall consist of extension programs to provide farmers with assistance and current information with respect to sustainable agriculture. Permits all other persons in a State, in addition to universities and colleges in such State, to participate in agricultural research and extension programs. (Under current law, only universities and colleges in a State may participate in such programs.) Requires the Secretary of Agriculture, in carrying out the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977, to ensure that adequate national support of extension, teaching, and agricultural research is provided to establish integrated multidisciplinary organic farming research projects. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to report annually to Congress on sustainable agriculture in the United States. Title IV: Renewable Energy Consumer Incentives - Renewable Energy Consumer Incentives Act of 1983 - Amends the Solar Energy and Energy Conservation Act of 1980 to extend the life of the Solar Energy and Energy Conservation Bank until September 30, 1990. (Under current law, the Bank will not exist after September 30, 1987.) Requires that a portion of the payments by the Bank to financial institutions to provide financial assistance for the installation of solar energy systems in residential, commercial, and agricultural buildings be allocated for active solar energy. Provides that there shall be no Federal preference with respect to financial assistance between single-family and multifamily residences. Permits all financial institutions to apply directly to the Bank for financial assistance. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1990 for the financial assistance program under the Solar Energy and Energy Conservation Act of 1980 for the purchase and installation of residential and commercial energy conserving improvements and solar energy systems. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to include passive solar energy property which uses convective, conductive, or radiant energy transfer and which has significant impact on home energy savings as a "renewable energy source property" which is eligible for the residential energy credit. Makes the residential energy credit inapplicable to energy conservation and renewable energy source expenditures made after December 31, 1990. (Under current law, such credit is inapplicable to expenditures made after December 31, 1985.) Amends the Low- Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981 to permit a State to transfer up to ten percent of its allotment under the low-income home energy assistance program for States to block grants for support of energy related information systems. Requires the Secretary of Energy to develop a formalized information exchange on the Federal, State, and local levels with respect to conservation and renewable energy. Authorizes appropriations to provide financial assistance to States and local governments to coordinate such program. Amends the Solar Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1974 to require the Secretary of Energy to maintain a renewable energy and energy conservation information program. (This program replaces the solar energy information program required to be established under current law.) Requires the Secretary to establish a National Appropriate Technology Service to provide individualized technical assistance to anyone interested in renewable energy and energy efficient technologies. Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to require the Secretary of Transportation to consider the use or integration of renewable fuels and any approaches which maximize conservation and renewable energy applications in determining maximum feasible average fuel economy. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to require the Federal Trade Commission to prescribe labeling requirements for consumer goods particularly in cases where there is a direct consumer benefit to save energy or utilize renewable energy. Amends the Small Business Act to authorize the Small Business Administration to provide reduced-rate loans to small businesses for acquisition of system performance ratings from testing laboratories for energy conservation and renewable energy systems and technologies. Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to require State regulatory authorities to adopt and publish standard contracts with respect to: (1) the sale of electric energy by utilities to small power production facilities of not more than 100 kilowatts capacity; and (2) the purchase of electric energy produced by such facilities by utilities. Requires the Secretary of Energy to include renewable energy as a discrete energy sector in all publications of "The Monthly Energy Review." Requires Federal agencies with renewable energy programs to submit annual reports on such programs to Congress. Sets forth reporting requirements which apply to specified Federal agencies.
![Official portrait of Rep. Murphy, Austin J. [D-PA-20]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/m001088_200.jpg)