United States · United States Congress · 24 August 1976
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should take such steps as may be necessary to place the threat to the peace created by the murder of two American Army officers attached to the United Nations Command by members of the North Korean Armed Forces serving as guards at Panmunjom, and other recent North Korean violations of the armistice agreement, on the agenda of the United Nations.
United States · United States Congress · 23 August 1976
Municipal Securities Full Disclosure Act - Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to require preparation of an annual report by any issuer of municipal securities which has outstanding during any portion of a fiscal year an aggregate principal amount of municipal securities exceeding $50,000,000. Requires that such report contain specified information including: (1) identification and description of the issuer; (2) a description of the issuer's debt structure; (3) a history of any default in payments of principal or interest; (4) a description of issuer's tax authority and structure; and (5) a detailed financial statement. Requires that any issuer that offers or sells an issue of municipal securities, the aggregate principal amount of which exceeds $5,000,000, shall prepare a distribution statement. Permits exceptions for specified offers or sales. Prescribes that such statement contain among other things: (1) a description of the offering, its price and plan of distribution; (2) a description of the security to be offered; (3) a description of intended use of the proceeds; and (4) a statement of counsel's opinion as to the legality of the offering. Requires that such reports and statements shall be available to the security holder at the issuer's expense and shall be maintained at a designated location for examination by the public.
United States · United States Congress · 23 August 1976
Deletes the provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act which limit to two the number of petitions for preference status which may be granted to a petitioner on behalf of an alien orphan immigrating to the United States for adoption.
United States · United States Congress · 23 August 1976
Calls for a termination of specified maritime agreements between the U.S. and U.S.S.R. unless the U.S.S.R. ceases to deny the national-flag vessels of the U.S. the right to carry an equal share of the oceanborne commerce between the two countries.
United States · United States Congress · 10 August 1976
Amends Title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to authorize payment under such title for services furnished by physician extenders and clinical staff of community mental health centers. Defines the term "physician extender" to mean a "physicians asssistant," "Medex," and "nurse practitioner" who, having completed an educational program meeting guidelines prescribed by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, is trained and qualified to provide primary health care under the supervision of a physician.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1976
Veterans' Administration Review Act - Provides that decisions of the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs on questions of law and fact under any law administered by the Veterans' Administration shall be subject to judicial review. Repeals the authority of the Administrator to pay fees to agents or attorneys in allowed claims for monetary benefits. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 211; Repeals 38 U.S.C. 3403(c))
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1976
Federal Trade Commission Amendments - Provides, under the Federal Trade Commission Act, that the appointment of any officer or employee of the Federal Trade Commission (other than a Commissioner) shall not be subject to review or approval by any entity within the Executive Office of the President. Requires that all recommendations by the Commission concerning legislation transmitted to the President or the Office of Management and Budget be concurrently transmitted to Congress. Makes cease and desist orders of the Commission final 60 days after such order is served unless stayed by an appropriate count. Requires the Commission to act upon a petition for the issuance, repeal, or amendment of a rule defining an unfair or deceptive act within 120 days after receipt of such petition. States that if such petition is for the issuance of a rule defining such an act and is denied or not acted upon by the Commission, the petioner may have a district court of the United States issue an order requiring the Commission to initiate such a rule if such court finds that the practices sought to be proscribed have a substantial adverse effect on a significant number of persons and that the Commission's failure to issue a rule with respect to such petition will result in a continuation of such practices and their adverse effects. Imposes a civil penalty of $5,000 per day for each day any person, partnership, or corporation fails to provide reports or documentary evidence or fails to testify before the Commission when required to do so. Authorizes to be appropriated to carry out the functions of the Federal Trade Commission for fiscal year 1978, $61,000,000.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1976
Commends the government and commando units of Israel for the rescue mission at Entebbe Airport. Disapproves efforts being undertaken by certain nations to condemn or censure Israel for such mission. Supports the United States-United Kingdom position at the United Nations condemning all acts of terrorism. Requests the President to engage in the negotiation of agreements with other nations to help prevent acts of terrorism.
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 1976
Sludge Management Act - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to study the environmental, health, and economic effects of subsurface landfilling sludge on soils and ground water, and alternate methods of sludge disposal. Directs the Administrator of develop guidelines for sludge disposal and land-spreading in order to protect the public health and welfare. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States and localities of up to 40 percent of the cost of removal of sludge from navigable waters of the United States or any adjacent shoreline. Directs the Administrator to establish an Environmental Protection Agency Task Force on sludge removal. Authorizes the establishment of programs of training, demonstration, and surveys relating to the restoration of water quality where degraded by sludge. Directs the Administrator to establish criteria for regulating and controlling the transportation, storage, and disposal of hazardous sludge. Establishes a permit program for activities relating to hazardous sludge two years after the enactment of this Act. Establishes procedures for adoption and approval of State hazardous sludge permit programs in accordance with criteria prescribed by the Administrator. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to prohibit grants for treatment works, after September 30, 1976, unless the applicant demonstrates that adequate confined disposal methods will be provided.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1976
Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to directly regulate sales prices of new natural gas except for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices for onshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices paid for natural gas in transactions between a natural gas company and its affiliates shall not exceed prices paid in comparable sales by persons not affiliated with any natural gas company. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make reports regarding the nature and availability of natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the estimated natural gas reserves for individual fields. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Stipulates that the provisions of the Natural Gas Act shall extend to synthetic natural gas. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards. Establishes procedures for the establishment and periodic revision of national ceiling prices for the sale of old natural gas in interstate commerce.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1976
Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to directly regulate sales prices of new natural gas except for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices for onshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices paid for natural gas in transactions between a natural gas company and its affiliates shall not exceed prices paid in comparable sales by persons not affiliated with any natural gas company. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make reports regarding the nature and availability of natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the estimated natural gas reserves for individual fields. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Stipulates that the provisions of the Natural Gas Act shall extend to synthetic natural gas. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards. Establishes procedures for the establishment and periodic revision of national ceiling prices for the sale of old natural gas in interstate commerce.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 1976
Comprehensive Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act - Title I: Domestic Oil Pollution Liability, Compensation, and Fund - Establishes in the Treasury of the United States a fund for the purpose of paying for otherwise uncompensated losses resulting from oil pollution. Enumerates the sources of moneys to be deposited in such fund, including a fee, not to exceed three cents per barrel of oil, imposed upon owners of facilities receiving oil in bulk directly for a vessel, an offshore production of port facility, or an oil pipeline. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to issue obligations to the Secretary of the Treasury at times when fund assets are insufficient to meet fund liabilities. Lists the types of injuries which may be compensated under this Act and the potential claimants who have standing to assert claims involving each such type of damage. Imposes joint, several, and strict liability on the owners and operators of each pollution source. Specifies liability limits, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, for ships and other vessels. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish limits on the liability of classes of facilities used for transporting, producing, processing, storing, or transferring oil. Requires the owner or operator: (1) of any such facility; or (2) any ship which uses such facility or navigable waters of the United States, to establish and maintain evidence of financial responsibility in an amount sufficient to satisfy applicable liability limits. Directs the person in charge of a vessel or facility to immediately notify the Secretary of Transportation of any pollution incident in which the vessel or facility is involved. Specifies procedures whereby the Secretary may, in the absence of such an admission, designate and advertise pollution sources. Directs the Secretary, in instances in which: (1) the owner and operator of a vessel or facility designated by the Secretary deny such vessel's or facility's involvement; (2) the source of the discharge is a public vessel; or (3) the Secretary is unable to designate the pollution source, to advertise procedures for presenting claims directly to the fund. Requires all other claims, with limited exceptions, to be initially presented to the owner or operator, or to such persons' guarantor. Permits claimants to either present a claim to the fund or to bring an action in an appropriate United States district court when an owner or operator and a guarantor deny liability or fail to settle the claim within a specified period. Sets forth procedures for the disposition and appeal of claims submitted to the fund. Requires both the plaintiff and the defendant in a court action brought against an owner, operator, or guarantor to forward copies of all pleadings to the fund. Permits the fund to intervene in such actions. Subrogates any person or governmental entity, including the fund, paying compensation to all the claimant's claims and rights under this Act. Specifies procedures for and the measure of recovery in actions brought by the fund against owners, operators, or guarantors of alleged pollution sources. Declares that the rights and remedies under this Act shall be exclusive with respect to economic loss caused by oil pollution. Sets penalties for persons failing to comply with specified provisions in this Act. Title II: Effective dates; Conforming Amendments - Specifies the effective date of, and amends specified laws to conform with, the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1976
Provides that the fees payable to agents or attorneys who represent veterans in allowed claims under the veterans laws shall be paid by the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs rather than deducted from amounts awarded under the claims.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1976
Amends Title II (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to provide that attorneys' fees allowed in administrative or judicial proceedings under that Title (or under title XVIII (Medicare) of such Act), in cases where the claimants are successful, shall be paid by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare rather than deducted from the amounts awarded claimants.
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 1976
Provides for the incorporation of the Gold Star Wives of America. Sets forth the objectives, purposes and powers of such corporation. Stipulates the nonpolitical nature the corporation is to be maintained.
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 1976
Authorizes up to $89,000 be paid from the contingent fund of the House of Representatives for the additional expense of the House ad hoc Select Committee on the Outer Continental Shelf associated with the completion of the legislative process on H.R. 6218; a bill to establish a policy for the management of oil and natural gas in the Outer Continental Shelf, to protect the marine and coastal environment, and to amend the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. Directs that no more than $18,000 of such amount shall be used to procure the services of consultants.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 1976
Amends the Federal Power Act to direct the Federal Power Commission to hold hearings and render decisions on proposed new rate schedules within 60 days of the date on which such schedule would otherwise go into effect. Suspends the operation of such new rate schedule until the effective date of the Commission's decision within the 60 day period. Stipulates that public utilities may not file proposals for rate increases when similar schedules previously filed are pending before the Commission for final determination.
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1976
Expresses the sense of the Congress that no individual whose social security benefits are increased should suffer, by reason of such increase, a loss of or reduction in any benefits which he or she is otherwise entitled to receive under any Federal or federally assisted program.
United States · United States Congress · 2 July 1976
Omnibus Energy Conservation Act - Title I: Energy Conservation in Residential Housing, Commercial and Public Buildings, and Industrial Plants - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish a voluntary standard and certification program for products designed to conserve energy in buildings. Directs the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration to prescribe guidelines for the development and preparation of State energy conservation implementation programs. Requires that States be given an opportunity to participate in the drafting of such guidelines. Establishes eligibility criteria for State energy conservation implementation programs in order to receive Federal assistance under this Act. Imposes a preliminary requirement that the State establish a State energy conservation advisory committee to assist in the formulation of such program. Authorizes the Administrator to provide Federal financial assistance to States whose proposed energy conservation programs meet specified criteria. Lists factors to be considered in determining the amount of such assistance. Stipulates that no State shall receive more than ten percent of the national total in each category of financial assistance. Authorizes the appropriation of the following sums to assist eligible State programs: $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, and $50,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980. Authorizes the Administrator to guarantee loans and other obligations issued to finance energy conservation measures consistent with the purposes of this Act. Limits the aggregate amount of outstanding guarantees under this Act to $4,500,000,000. Limits the total amount of guarantees which may be issued to any one borrower to $2,000,000. Requires annual reports to the Congress on State energy conservation implementation programs. Amends the Energy Conservation and Insulation of Buildings Act of 1976 to authorize additional appropriations of $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $50,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978 and 1979; and $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1980 to assist low-income persons under the provisions of such Act. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to assist in the financing of energy conservation measures. Authorizes appropriations for such assistance payments of $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, and $200,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978 - 1980. Amends the Small Business Act to empower the Small Business Administration to make loans to small business concerns for implementation of energy conservation measures. Limits the total amount of such loans under the Act to $300,000,000. Stipulates that the total amount of such payments to lending institutions under the Act shall not exceed $60,000,000. Title II: Implementation of Energy Conservation, Programs; Energy Efficiency Research, Development and Demonstration - Establishes in the Energy Research and Development Administration the Energy Extension Service. Directs the Service to develop and implement a comprehensive program for the identification, development, and demonstration of energy conserving practices, techniques, materials, and equipment for: (1) agricultural, commercial, and small business operations; and (2) new and existing residential, commercial, or agricultural structures. Requires that such programs include technical assistance, instruction, and practical demonstrations in energy conservation. Establishes procedures for submission of State plans for the conduct of energy extension service activities within each State in accordance with Federal guidelines. Authorizes financial assistance to States which have plans approved by the Director of the Energy Extension Service. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to prepare a plan for Federal energy education, extension, and information programs. Establishes a National Energy Extension Service Advisory Board to carry on a continuing review of Federal energy extension programs. Authorizes the Administrator of Energy Research and Development to provide financial assistance for the development of State and regional energy conservation research and development institutes on a matching basis. Directs the Administrator to establish an energy use efficiency project designed to demonstrate the feasibility of energy efficiency enhancement in the residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural sectors. Authorizes additional research, development, and demonstration programs to increase the commercial opportunities for utilization of energy efficient systems. Directs the Administrator to develop, within 180 days after the enactment of this Act, performance standards and criteria for energy efficiency equipment and processes. Requires use by Federal agencies of newly-developed energy efficiency technologies. Directs the Administrator to study various institutional factors which may tend to bias economic sectors against the use of energy efficient systems and to report the results to the Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 2 July 1976
National Aquaculture Organic Act - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish a National Aquaculture Development Plan. States that such plan shall: (1) identify each aquatic species which can be cultured on a commercial basis (priority aquatic species); and (2) contain a program of aquaculture development for such priority aquatic species. Directs the Secretary of Commerce or Secretary of the Interior, whichever is appropriate, to review annually each aquatic species not identified as a priority species and the program established for each priority species. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to: (1) establish and maintain an aquaculture information center; (2) maintain an inventory of public and private aquaculture being carried out in the United States; (3) arrange for the mutual exchange of information relating to aquaculture with foreign nations; and (4) submit an annual report to Congress on the implementation of the provisions of this Act. Establishes the Interagency Committee on Aquaculture comprised of the heads of various Federal agencies to insure that there is a continuing exchange of information relating to the aquacultural programs and projects of the various agencies and to review on a continuing basis the relevant programs and projects of all the Federal agencies. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce or the Secretary of the Interior to carry out any function under this Act through grants or contracts. Limits the amount of any grant made available under this Act to one-half of the estimated cost of the project for which the grant was made. Authorizes either Secretary to guarantee obligations issued for the financing of any aquaculture facility within the United States. Stipulates that the aggregate unpaid principal amount of all such guaranteed obligations shall not exceed $100,000,000. Authorizes the Secretary to collect a fee for guaranteed obligations not to exceed one-half of one percent per annum of the outstanding principal balance of the obligation. Sets forth the allowable interest rate, maturity date, and default procedures relating to such loans. Authorizes the appropriate Secretary to issue notes or obligations to the Secretary of the Treasury if the monies in the loan fund are insufficient to pay such a loan in the event of default. Authorizes the Secretary to make disaster loans available to individuals who have guaranteed loans under this Act. Establishes within the Treasury a Federal Aquaculture Assistance Fund for the purpose of guaranteeing loans or making disaster loans available under this Act. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish an insurance program for persons with guaranteed loans under this Act. Authorizes appropriations to the Secretaries of Commerce and the Interior to carry out the various provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 2 July 1976
Directs the President to proclaim that Valentyn Moroz shall be an honorary citizen of the United States. Urges cooperation in observance of the principles of the Final Act of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Soviet Union as one of the signators to the Final Act should provide Valentyn Moroz with the opportunity to accept the invitation of Harvard University for the 1976-77 academic year.
United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1976
Directs the Secretary of the Senate to make corrections in the enrollment of the bill (S. 586) to amend the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 to authorize and assist the coastal states to study and control the impact of energy facility and resource development which affects the coastal zone.
United States · United States Congress · 29 June 1976
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President call a White House Conference on Marriage and the Family in order to establish a national understanding of the role played by marriage and the family in the development of a viable society.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1976
Amends rule XXII of the Rules of the House of Representatives to remove the limitation on the number of Members who may introduce jointly any bill, memorial, or resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 1976
National Meals-on-Wheels Act - Amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to allow States to distribute Federal funds for the establishment of: (1) projects to provide home-delivered meals to qualified homebound elderly persons; (2) an information and referral system for homebound individuals receiving such meals; and (3) an operation to seek volunteer personnel for the delivery of such meals and to compensate such personnel for related transportation expenses. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums in fiscal years 1977 and 1978 for the purpose of providing home-delivered meals under this Act. Directs the Commissioner of the Administration on Aging to conduct a demonstration project involving at least three States to determine the feasibility of using the meals system designed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for the elderly as a component of, or substitute for, regular nutrition projects assisted under the Older Americans Act of 1965. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary in fiscal year 1977 to carry out this project.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 1976
Ocean Shipping Act - Amends the Shipping Act of 1916 to include controlled carriers within the coverage of such Act. Defines "controlled carrier" as one which is directly owned, or whose operating assets are directly owned, by any government other than a government whose vessels by treaty are accorded most-favored-nation treatment or national treatment by the United States. Directs that no controlled carrier shall maintain rates or charges or structures of rates or charges in its tareffs filed with the Commission that are above or below a level which is just and reasonable. Provides that in determining whether rates are reasonable, consideration shall be given to whether the rates or charges are below a level which is fully compensatory or above the level of rates or charges applicable to non-United States ports in countries adjacent to the United States so as to encourage diversion of cargo from United States ports. Requires controlled carriers filing rates or charges or structures of rates or charges to designate and retain a registered agent within the United States. Forbids any controlled carrier to establish rates or charges which have the purpose or the effect of diverting or selectively diverting cargo from a United States port to or through a non-United States port in a country adjacent to the United States in order to avoid the provisions of this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of $1,950,000 to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1976
Provides, under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, that whenever an employer's failure to comply with any provision of that Act or any State requirement relating to industrial safety causes or contributes to an accident resulting in bodily injury, no provision of any workers' compensation law or similar statute shall be construed to bar an action at law for contribution, indemnification, or other relief against the employer by a person alleged liable for such injury.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1976
Establishes in the House of Representatives a select committee to be known as the Select Committee on Narcotics Abuse and Control. Provides that the select committee shall conduct a continuing comprehensive study and review of the problems of narcotics abuse and control and shall review any recommendations made by the President, or by any department or agency of the executive branch of the Federal Government, relating to programs or policies affecting narcotics abuse or control. Authorizes the select committee to conduct field investigations or inspections. Requires the select committee to submit an annual report to the House which shall include a summary of the activities of the select committee during the calendar year to which such report applies.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1976
Permits the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to initiate a civil action to enforce Federal prohibitions against discriminatory housing practices. Allows Federal courts to award private plaintiffs bringing suit out to enforce such prohibitions reasonable attorney fees whether or not such individuals are financially able to bear the cost.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1976
Directs the President to establish an Office of Hispanic Affairs within specified executive departments and agencies. Provides that such office shall participate in all policy planning and development for all programs which affect the Hispanic communities. Authorizes the President to take such measures as he determines are necessary to instruct the chairpersons of the ten Federal regional councils to insure that the problems and needs of Hispanics are taken into consideration in decisions related to Federal assistance to State and local governments. Provides that the Secretary of Commerce shall establish and maintain a Hispanic Information Clearinghouse which shall collect, analyze, and disseminate information concerning the social, economic, employment, health, and housing needs and conditions of Hispanics.
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 1976
Extends the delimiting period in the case of any eligible veteran who is pursuing, during his or her tenth year of eligibility, a program of education. Terminates such extension on whichever of the following dates first occurs: (1) the date on which the veteran completes, or ceases to pursue, the program he was pursuing in his tenth year of eligibility; or (2) the last day of the 11-year period beginning on the date of his discharge from active duty. (Adds 38 U.S.C. 1662(e))
United States · United States Congress · 15 June 1976
Amends the Tariff Schedules of the United States to repeal the duty imposed on (1) articles assembled abroad with components produced in the United States, and (2) specified metal articles manufactured in the United States and exported for further processing.
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 1976
Increases from ten to 12 years the period during which veterans and wives and widows of veterans are eligible for educational assistance. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 1662)
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States Postal Service shall not close or suspend the operation of any post offices, unless there is a clear and compelling need to do so. Encourages the service to continue cost-cutting programs which do not affect levels of service.
United States · United States Congress · 11 June 1976
Authorizes the Architect of the Capitol to perform such work as may be necessary to prevent further deterioration of historically significant sections of the Congressional Cemetery. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a study of the purpose of formulating proposals for the renovation and maintenance of such areas by the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 10 June 1976
Amends the Canal Zone Code to provide a method for computing interest due on funds invested in the Panama Canal Company by the United States. Provides that no depreciation shall be allowed on the investment of the United States for lands, titles, treaty rights, and excavations.
United States · United States Congress · 10 June 1976
Amends the District of Columbia Police and Firemen's Salary Act to establish a separate salary schedule for the officers and members of the United States Park Police. Stipulates that the compensation of such personnel shall be adjusted in accordance with Federal civil service pay comparability provisions. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish a United States Park Police Retirement and Relief Board to carry out the responsibilities of the Mayor of the District of Columbia with respect to retirement and disability determinations regarding Park Police.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1976
Joint Committee on Intelligence Operations Act - Establishes a Congressional Joint Committee on Intelligence Operations to conduct continuing oversight of, and to exercise exclusive legislative jurisdiction over, the foreign intelligence activities of: (1) the Central Intelligence Agency; (2) the Defense Intelligence Agency; (3) the National Security Agency; (4) the Bureau of Intelligence and Research; (5) Army, Navy, and Air Force Intelligence; and (6) other agencies to the extent that such agencies engage in foreign intelligence activities. Requires that the Director of Central Intelligence must keep the joint committee fully informed with respect to all foreign intelligence activities of the United States. Sets forth the administrative powers of the joint committee. Charges the joint committee with the establishment of guidelines for the classification of information originating with the joint committee. Prescribes penalties for the public release of classified materials by any congressional officer, employee of the joint committee, or former congressional officer or employee of the joint committee. Requires that no nonintelligence gathering operation, under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, may be conducted until 30 days after the President reports such operation to the joint committee, unless it is essential to national security that such operation begin immediately. Ceases all such operations which at any time are disapproved by the joint committee.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1976
Directs the House Select Committee on Aging and the Senate Special Committee on Aging to jointly sponsor, plan, and conduct a Congressional Conference on Aging in 1977. States that the conference shall review the reports of the 1971 White House Conference on Aging, and develop legislative recommendations for developing a national policy toward the improvement of the conditions of older persons in the United States. Authorizes $750,000 from the General Treasury of the United States to carry out the provisions of this joint resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 8 June 1976
Authorizes and directs the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to dredge New York Harbor in the vicinity of the South Street Seaport Museum, Manhattan, New York, to provide adequate docking for ships of Operation Sail. Authorizes the Secretary to use any funds presently available to him for operation and maintenance of navigation in New York Harbor.
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1976
Amends the Regional Rail Reorganization Act to allow States, groups of States, or profitable railroads to acquire rail properties from the Consolidated Rail Corporation which were designated in the final system plan for conveyance to a profitable railroad and which were subsequently conveyed to the Corporation during a one-year period from the conveyance date. Requires the Corporation to maintain such rail properties in an equivalent condition to the condition on the date of conveyance for a one-year period. States that employees who accept employment by a State or profitable railroad under this Act shall be eligible for employee protection equivalent to the protection which would be applicable if such person were an employee of the Corporation.
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1976
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the United States reaffirms a sympathetic interest in Italian democracy and democratic institutions. States that the United States is willing to participate in efforts to provide financial assistance to Italy with the assistance of other friends and allies of Italy.
United States · United States Congress · 3 June 1976
Requires the President, under the Interstate Commerce Act, to designate two of the Commissioners of the Interstate Commerce Commission to serve as chairman and Vice Chairman of the Commission for two-year terms beginning January 1, 1977. Directs that every two years the members of the Commission shall elect a Chariman and Vice Chairman from among its members.
United States · United States Congress · 1 June 1976
Recommends that the Board on Geographic Names approve a proposal to name two mountains in Alaska after the later Congressmen Hale Boggs and Nick Begich.
United States · United States Congress · 27 May 1976
Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to directly regulate sales prices of new natural gas except for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices for onshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices paid for natural gas in transactions between a natural gas company and its affiliates shall not exceed prices paid in comparable sales by persons not affiliated with any natural gas company. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make reports regarding the nature and availability of natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the estimated natural gas reserves for individual fields. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Stipulates that the provisions of the Natural Gas Act shall extend to synthetic natural gas. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards. Establishes procedures for the establishment and periodic revision of national ceiling prices for the sale of old natural gas in interstate commerce.
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1976
Toxic Substances Control Act - Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to test any chemical substance or mixture which may present an unreasonable risk to health or the environment if there is insufficient data to determine that such a risk does or does not exist. Requires promulgation of standards for the development of testing data for each such substance or mixture. Authorizes the Administrator to exempt chemicals and mixtures from the testing requirement if he determines that data has been or is being developed for substantially the same compound. Establishes a committee to make recommendations (based on enumerated criteria) to the Administrator respecting the chemical substances and mixtures which should be given priority consideration for testing. Requires manufacturers and processors to notify the Administrator 90 days in advance of initiation of manufacture or processing of (1) a new substance; or (2) a chemical substance for a significant new use. Requires the Administrator to compile a list of substances currently distributed in commerce which he determines may present an unreasonable risk to health or the environment. Authorizes exemptions from the testing requirement for substances on such list if the Administrator determines that the manufacture and distribution of such substance would not present an unreasonable risk to health or the environment under the particular circumstance, or under appropriate restrictions. Provides that the Administrator, upon determination that a substance is hazardous to health or the environment, may (1) prohibit or limit its manufacture or processing; (2) prescribe maximum concentration levels for particular uses; (3) prohibit particular uses; or (4) require clear and adequate warnings as to the hazards of use or disposal. Authorizes the Administrator to test for adulterated or contaminated substances and mixtures. Authorizes the Administrator to file an action in a United States district court (1) against an imminently hazardous chemical substance or mixture or any article containing such a substance or mixture for seizure of such substance, mixture or article; (2) against any person who manufactures, processes, or distributes such substance, mixture, or article; or (3) against both such substance, mixture, or article and such person. Directs the Administrator to promulgate rules for the reporting and retention of information by manufacturers and processors as is necessary for the effective enforcement of this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to require manufacturers, processors, or distributors to submit lists of health and safety studies with respect to chemical substances or mixtures which they intend to introduce into commerce. Requires any person who manufactures, processes, or distributes in commerce a chemical substance or mixture and who obtains information which reasonably supports the conclusion that such substance or mixture presents an unreasonable risk to health or the environment to immediately inform the Administrator of such risk unless such person has actual knowledge that the Administrator has been adequately informed of such risk. Directs the Administrator to, in consultation and cooperation with the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare and with other appropriate agencies, conduct such research and monitoring as is necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to inspect, after written notice, premises in which chemical substances or mixtures are manufactured, processed, or stored to determine whether the requirements of this Act have been complied with. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to refuse entry into the customs territory of the United States of any chemical substance, mixture, or article containing a chemical substance or mixture offered for entry if (1) it fails to conform with any rule in effect under this Act, or (2) it is otherwise prohibited pursuant to this Act from being distributed in commerce. Permits disclosure of data received by the Administrator pursuant to this Act under limited circumstances, and prescribes criminal penalties for wrongful disclosure. Enumerates civil and criminal penalties for violations of the provisions of this Act, and grants jurisdiction to Federal district courts to (1) specifically enforce such provisions and (2) entertain actions by citizens to enforce its provisions. Prescribes procedures for any person to petition the Administrator to issue a rule for testing standards or regulation of hazardous substances. Directs the General Accounting Office to conduct a study of all Federal laws administered by the Environmental Protection Agency for the purpose of determining whether and under what conditions, if any, indemnification should be accorded any person as a result of any action taken by the Administrator under any law administered by such agency. Authorizes to be appropriated for fiscal year 1978 and for each of the next two fiscal years sums necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
![Official portrait of Rep. Murphy, John M. [D-NY-17]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/m001098_200.jpg)