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United States · Official source
6,804 records where Rep. Oberstar, James L. [D-MN-8] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1988
Expresses disapproval of the refusal of the U.S.S.R. to recognize the sovereignty of the Baltic Republics. Designates June 14, 1988, as Baltic Freedom Day. Authorizes and requests the President to submit the issue of the Baltic Republics to the United Nations.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1988
Designates March 20, 1988, as National Agriculture Day.
United States · United States Congress · 18 February 1988
Oyster Disease Research Assistance Act - Directs the Chief Scientist of the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration to establish an oyster disease research program, including: (1) identification of certain oyster diseases; (2) identification of priority research categories; (3) support for research in priority categories; and (4) a process for making the results of the research available to interested persons. Permits eligible institutions to apply for research grants. Sets forth the factors the Chief Scientist must consider in deciding whether to award assistance. Establishes the Oyster Research Program Advisory Committee to advise the Chief Scientist regarding matters related to carrying out this Act. Requires representation on the Committee from specified geographic areas. Directs the Chief Scientist to consult with the Department of the Interior, the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, and the Food and Drug Administration with respect to the identification of priority oyster diseases, the identification of priority research categories, and matters covered by the biennial review required by this Act. Directs the Chief Scientist to undertake a biennial review of the program. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1998.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1988
Universal Voter Registration Act of 1988 - Entitles any eligible individual to register for any Federal election by mail, in person, or at the appropriate polling place on the day of an election. Declares that such individual may register in person at: (1) a designated place for such individual's current address; (2) any Federal, State, county, or municipal agency that serves the public directly; or (3) any private agency that voluntarily agrees to register voters. Provides that where a State maintains a system of voter registration, such State shall allow an individual to register to vote for elections held on the date of Federal elections, in the manner provided by an approved State plan. Requires such plan to include: (1) the voter registration form to be used for mail registration; (2) provisions for distribution of such forms; (3) election day voter registration; (4) voter registration in agencies which serve the public directly and at private agencies that voluntarily agree to register voters; (5) provisions for prompt notification of registration acceptance; (6) provisions to inform registrants about voting places and times; (7) registration confirmation to insure accurate, inclusive, and uniform voter registration lists; (8) provisions with respect to registration challenges; and (9) a description of State efforts to actively increase voter registration. Requires each State to submit to the Federal Election Commission for approval a voter registration form which allows registration in person or by mail. Allows the form to be similar or identical to postcard application forms under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act. Specifies requirements for such form, including that it provide for postage paid return delivery to the appropriate State or local official. Requires agencies subject to this Act to provide for year-round registration services. Requires State and local election officials to provide for the availability of sufficient quantities of registration forms. Requires the chief election official of a State to establish a program to confirm voter registration. Sets forth requirements for such program, including: (1) notification systems concerning deaths and changes of address; (2) non-removal from a voter registration list unless a voter has died, changed residence to another jurisdiction, been convicted of a criminal offense or institutionalized for mental incapacity, or requested removal; and (3) voter registration lists comprising eligible voters, voters whose registration cannot be confirmed and whose eligibility may be challenged on election day, and individuals who have been removed from such list not more than four years before the date of the election. Sets forth provisions for challenging election votes, including the use of an affidavit ballot for the challenged voter. Declares that voter registration requirements shall not apply to any State which: (1) provides for voter registration procedures which meet or exceed the standards for State plans; (2) does not require voter registration; or (3) adopts the Federal postcard application form. Requires individuals who register to vote on an election day to establish their identity, place of residence, and qualifications at the time of such registration. Requires each polling place to provide a means of processing such registrants separately from other voters. Authorizes the Federal Election Commission to administer this Act and to provide advice and technical assistance to States. Requires the Commission to report to the Congress every two years on: (1) the effectiveness of efforts to establish and maintain voter registration procedures; (2) the administration of voter registration programs; and (3) recommendations on national voter registration standards. Declares any order of the Commission under this Act to be reviewable by the appropriate U.S. court of appeals. Provides that the appellee shall not be liable for costs. Directs the Commission to make grants to the chief election official of a State which has an approved plan for establishing voter registration programs. Requires such grants to be made to enable and encourage States to computerize voter registration lists and to undertake alternative methods of voter registration. Authorizes the Commission to establish an advisory council of State and local election officials to advise States about voter registration systems. Requires the Commission to develop a formula for the allocation of funds to States and to allocate or reallocate such funds. Requires a State to submit a plan for voter registration to the Commission within two years of enactment of this Act. Requires the Commission to publish proposed regulations for an implementation plan, or portion thereof, for any State which fails to submit a plan or for any State plan determined not to meet the requirements under this Act. Establishes Federal enforcement procedures and penalties for violations of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1988
Food and Nutrition Programs Protection Act of 1988 - Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to make discretionary certain purchase-based milk price support reductions which are currently mandatory. Increases the amount of purchases necessary for such reductions to become effective. Increases the amount of purchases necessary for certain milk price increases to become effective.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1988
Designates the week beginning May 15, 1988, as National Rural Health Awareness Week.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1988
Designates October 6, 1988, as German-American Day.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1988
Designates April 21, 1988, as John Muir Day, marking the 150th birthday of American conservationist John Muir.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1988
Authorizes and requests the President to designate April 24 through April 30, 1988, as National Organ and Tissue Donor Awareness Week.
United States · United States Congress · 8 February 1988
Amends the Internal Revenue Code with respect to the Boat Safety Account in the Aquatic Resources Trust Fund to: (1) authorize transfers into the account of motorboat fuel taxes received before October 1, 1999 (current law provides authorization until October 1, 1988); (2) increase from $45,000,000 to $60,000,000 the amount permissible in the Account without triggering a prohibition of Highway Trust Fund transfers into the Account for FY 1988 and thereafter; and (3) extend from April 1, 1989, to October 1, 1999, the date before which expenditures may be made from the Account for recreational boating safety programs. Grants the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating liquidating contract authority with respect to State recreational boating safety programs in an amount equal to one-half (currently two-thirds) of the amount of motorboat fuel taxes transferred to the Account in FY 1988 and thereafter. Increases from one-third to one-half the portion of such funds available for Coast Guard services in connection with recreational boating safety services. Prohibits fiscal year expenditures for Coast Guard expenses from exceeding those for State boating safety programs generally. Amends Federal law to permit a State to use contributions of funds, materials, lands, and services to carry out certain fish restoration and management projects in lieu of paying its share of the activity.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1988
Designates March 4, 1988, as Department of Commerce Day.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1988
Designates the week of October 30 through November 5, 1988, as National Jukebox Week.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1988
Designates the week beginning April 24, 1988, as Mining Awareness Week.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1988
Expresses the sense of the Congress that if Japanese nationals take whales pursuant to a proposal submitted in October 1987 to the International Whaling Commission before the Commission approves such proposal, the Secretary of Commerce should issue a certification under the Magnuson Fishery Conservation and Management Act that such taking diminishes the effectiveness of the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling (thus requiring the Secretary of State to reduce the fishery allocation for Japan).
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1988
Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) it is U.S. policy to support the indefinite cessation of all commercial whaling adopted by the International Whaling Commission and to promote the protection of the world's whale populations; (2) all countries should adhere to the indefinite cessation of the commercial killing of whales; and (3) the United States should encourage other parties to the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling to impose sanctions on any country engaging in activities which diminish the effectiveness of the Convention.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1988
Designates the week of May 8 through May 14, 1988, as National Osteoporosis Prevention Week of 1988.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1988
Commends the President, Secretary of State, and Administrator of the Agency for International Development for their response to the drought and food emergency in Ethiopia and other nations of sub-Saharan Africa, and urges them to continue efforts to preclude the onset of famine and to ensure the timely delivery of medical and other emergency relief supplies. Declares that: (1) the Government response to these food emergencies should include initiatives to prevent the dislocation of large numbers of persons across national borders and/or into relief camps; and (2) the plight of the refugees or displaced should be addressed by emphasizing the provision of basic human needs, such as food, water, and shelter.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 1988
Television Violence Act of 1988 - Exempts from the antitrust laws any joint discussion, consideration, review, action, or agreement by or among persons in the television industry for the purpose of, and limited to, developing and disseminating voluntary guidelines designed to alleviate the negative impact of violence in telecast material, provided the joint action does not result in a boycott of any person. Terminates such exemption three years after enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 1988
Designates October 7, 1988, as National Teacher Appreciation Day.
United States · United States Congress · 21 December 1987
Directs the Secretary of the Army to set aside an appropriate area within Arlington National Cemetery for the unmarked burial of cremated remains of persons entitled to burial in such cemetery.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1987
Requires the Secretary of Commerce to ensure that during any decennial census: (1) no member of the armed forces, civilian employee of the Department of Defense, or dependent of such member or employee, is excluded based on such member or employee being assigned to a post outside the United States; and (2) any alien not lawfully admitted for permanent residence is not included.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1987
Designates the Federal building located at 405 South Tucker Boulevard, St. Louis, Missouri, as the Robert A. Young Federal Building.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1987
Local Government Infrastructure Financing Improvement Act of 1987 - Amends the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of Commerce to provide local governments technical assistance with respect to financing construction, repair, and expansion of public works facilities, including provision of information necessary to familiarize local governments about the use and availability of tax-exempt public works facility bonds for such financing. Requires the Secretary to report biennially to specified congressional committees on local government public works financing practices. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) raise from $5,000,000 to $25,000,000 the threshold amount of tax-exempt bonds that a small governmental unit may issue and still remain within the exception from arbitrage rebate requirements; and (2) increase from ten percent to 25 percent the amount of tax-exempt government bond proceeds that may be used by a nongovernmental entity for private purposes without triggering treatment of the bond issue as a taxable private activity bond. Limits the latter provision to governmental issuers whose reasonably anticipated amount of tax-exempt obligations to be issued during the calendar year is $25,000,000 or less. Caps at $25,000,000 the amount of bonds to which the issuer may apply the 25 percent private use test in any year.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1987
Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to prohibit discriminatory adverse actions by employers against aircraft personnel who have filed complaints or proceedings regarding aircraft safety. Sets forth a grievance procedure for the investigation of discrimination grievances.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 1987
Requires the Office of Personnel Management to report, with recommendations, to the Congress on the problem of delays in processing applications for benefits under the Civil Service Retirement System. Directs the Office to examine: (1) current methods and procedures; (2) circumstances where it might be appropriate to provide interim benefits; (3) the feasibility of processing records, forms, and other matters in anticipation of an employee's retirement; and (4) the effectiveness of retirement counselors. Requires the report to contain a plan to allow an individual to go from regular pay to retirement or disability retirement pay without interruption.
United States · United States Congress · 15 December 1987
Comprehensive Health Care Improvement Act of 1987 - Title I: Qualified Health Insurance Plans - Part A: Definitions and Standards for Qualified Plans - Sets forth definitions used in this title. Defines a "plan of health coverage" as any plan or combination of plans, including combinations of self-insurance, individual accident and health insurance policies, group accident and health insurance policies, coverage under a nonprofit health service plan, or coverage under a health maintenance organization (HMO) subscriber contract. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish standards for qualified plans and procedures for the review and certification of plans of health coverage as qualified plans. Provides that a plan shall be certified as an "A" qualified plan if it meets any applicable State requirements with respect to accident and health insurance plans or nonprofit health service plans, and meets or exceeds the following minimum standards: (1) the minimum benefits for a covered individual are equal to at least 80 percent of the covered expenses in excess of an annual deductible not exceeding $250.00 per person; (2) the coverage includes a limitation of $3,000 per person on total annual out-of-pocket expenses for covered expenses; (3) the coverage is subject to no maximum life-time benefit; and (4) the $3,000 limitation (above) and the unlimited lifetime benefit limit (above) are not subject to change or substitution by use of an actuarially equivalent benefit. States that covered expenses are the usual and customary charges of a physician or chiropractor. Defines covered services as the following services and articles: (1) hospital services; (2) professional services for the diagnosis or treatment of injuries, illnesses, or conditions (other than outpatient mental or dental care) which are rendered by a physician or at a physician's direction; (3) drugs requiring a physician's prescription; (4) services of a nursing home for not more than 120 days a year if the services would qualify as reimbursable services under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act; (5) services of a home health agency if the services would qualify as reimbursable services under title XVIII of the Social Security Act; (6) use of radium or other radioactive materials; (7) oxygen; (8) anesthetics; (9) prostheses, other than dental; (10) rental or purchase, as appropriate, of durable medical equipment, but not including eyeglasses and hearing aids; (11) diagnostic X-rays and laboratory tests; (12) oral surgery for partially or completely unerupted impacted teeth, for a tooth root without the extraction of the entire tooth, or for the gums and tissues of the mouth when not performed in connection with the extraction or repair of teeth; (13) services of a physical therapist; (14) transportation provided by a licensed ambulance service to the nearest facility qualified to treat the condition; (15) well baby care; (16) physicians' services for routine checkups and annual physicals when prescribed by a physician; (17) multiphasic screening and other diagnostic testing, within such reasonable limits on the reimbursement required for such services as the Secretary shall prescribe; (18) a second opinion from a physician on all surgical procedures expected to cost a total of $500 or more in physician, laboratory, and hospital fees, but the coverage need not include the repetition of any diagnostic tests for such an opinion; and (19) professional services of a chiropractor. Excludes from coverage: (1) any charge for which benefits are payable under any other type of insurance or compensation; (2) cosmetic surgery; (3) custodial or domiciliary care not qualifying under Medicare; (4) private rooms, except if medically necessary; (5) any part of any charge exceeding the locally prevailing charge; and (6) charges for services rendered by an individual or institution which are not within the individual's or institution's authorized scope of practice. Deems HMOs to be providing an "A" qualified plan. Certifies as a "B" qualified plan a plan which meets the requirements of an "A" plan, except that the annual deductible does not exceed $1,000 per person. Provides that a plan which provides benefits to persons over age 65 shall be certified as a qualified Medicare supplement plan if it limits annual out-of-pocket expenses to a maximum of $1,000 per person, is designed to complement or supplement Medicare, and provide coverage: (1) of 80 percent of the required Medicare deductibles and copayments; (2) of 80 percent of charges for covered services of an "A" qualified plan not paid under Medicare; and (3) which is not subject to a maximum lifetime benefit. Directs the Secretary, to the extent feasible, to provide for the review and certification by the insurance commissioner of each State of qualified plans to be offered in the State if the Secretary is provided assurances that such review and certification will comply with the requirements of this Act. States that the sale of plans are in and affect interstate commerce and that, in order to properly regulate such sales, it is necessary to regulate such sales in intrastate, as well as interstate, commerce. Requires every plan of health coverage sold to be labelled as "qualified" or "nonqualified" on the front of the policy. Requires each advertisement or promotion for a plan to specify whether the plan is "qualified" or "nonqualified." Part B: Requiring Offering of Certain Qualified Plans - Requires each employer employing an average of ten or more employees annually to make available a plan or combination of plans of health coverage which: (1) has been certified as an "A" or supplemental plan; (2) is a qualified convertible plan; and (3) permits coverage of an employee's spouse and children. Defines a "qualified convertible plan" as a plan of health coverage which: (1) permits each enrolled individual to convert the plan to an individual qualified plan without the addition of underwriting restrictions if, for any reason, the individual leaves the group; and (2) permits, in the case of the death of the individual in whose name the contract was issued, other individuals covered under the plan to continue coverage without the addition of underwriting restrictions. Sets forth civil penalties for noncompliance with this part. Excludes from the term "employee," for purposes of this provision, certain new, part time, part year, young, bargaining unit, and nonresident alien exployees. Part C: Offering of Comprehensive Health Insurance and Qualified Medicare Supplement Plans by States - Sets forth definitions used in this part. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require the establishment and operation of a comprehensive health association in each State and a comprehensive health plan in each State, in accordance with this part of this Act. Defines a "comprehensive health insurance plan" to mean policies of insurance and contracts of HMO coverage offered by an association through the writing carrier in the State. Defines the "writing carrier" as the insurers and HMOs approved to administer the comprehensive health insurance plan. Provides that each State commissioner of insurance, consistent with any regulations the Secretary may promulgate: (1) may formulate general policies to advance the purposes of this title; (2) shall supervise the creation of the State comprehensive health association; (3) shall approve the selection of the writing carrier by the association in the State and approve the association's contract with the writing carrier, including the State plan coverage and premiums to be charged; (4) may appoint advisory committees with respect to implementation of this part; (5) shall conduct periodic audits to assure the general accuracy of the financial data submitted by the writing carrier and the association in the State; (6) shall contract with the Federal Government and may contract with any other unit of government to ensure coordination of the State plan of the association with other governmental assistance programs; (7) may undertake, directly or through contracts with other persons, studies or demonstration programs to develop awareness of the benefits provided under this Act, so that residents of the State may best avail themselves of the health care benefits provided hereunder; (8) may contract with insurers and others for administrative services; and (9) may adopt, amend, suspend, and repeal rules as reasonably necessary to carry out and make effective the provisions and purposes of this part. Requires each State to provide for the establishment of a comprehensive health association with membership consisting of all insurers, self-insurers, fraternal beneficiary associations, other entities offering health policies, and HMOs authorized or licensed to do business in the State. Exempts each association from State taxation. Provides for a board of directors of each association. Requires that all members of an association: (1) maintain their membership in the association as a condition of doing accident and health insurance, self-insurance, or HMO business in the State; and (2) enter into a reinsurance contract with the association as required by this part. Exempts members of an association, in the performance of their duties as members, from Federal and State antitrust laws. Authorizes each association to provide for the reinsuring of risks incurred as a result of issuing qualified plans by members of the association. Requires each member which elects to reinsure its risks to determine the categories of coverage it elects to reinsure in the association. Provides that the categories consist of: (1) individual qualified plans, excluding group conversions; (2) group conversions; (3) group qualified plans with fewer than 50 employees or members; and (4) major medical coverage. Requires each association through its comprehensive health insurance plan to offer: (1) policies which provide the benefits of "A" and "B" qualified plans and of a qualified Medicare supplement plan; and (2) HMO contracts in those areas of the State where an HMO has agreed to make the coverage available and has been selected as a writing carrier. Requires the comprehensive health insurance plan for a State to be open for enrollment by individuals residing in the State, who can enroll by submitting a certificate of eligibility to the writing carrier which certifies the applicant's name, address, age, length of residence, dependents to be insured, and type of coverage desired. Provides that upon certification the individual can enroll in a State's comprehensive health insurance plan by payment of the State plan premium to the writing carrier. Requires each member of an association to share the claims expenses for approved plans and the operating and administrative expenses incurred by the association, pursuant to the terms of the individual reinsurance contracts executed by the association with each member. Sets forth a method to determine each member's share of expenses. Authorizes any member of an association in a State to submit for approval to the State commissioner the policies of accident and health insurance or the HMO contracts which are being proposed to serve in the comprehensive health insurance plan. Authorizes the association to select approved policies and a contract to be the comprehensive health insurance plan based upon the member's proven ability to handle large group accident and health insurance cases, claims paying capacity, and estimate of total charges for plan administration. Requires each writing carrier to: (1) perform all required administrative and claims payment functions; and (2) report monthly to the association and State commissioner. Exempts premiums received by a writing carrier for the comprehensive health insurance plan from State taxation. Requires each association in a State to disseminate information to State residents regarding the existence of the comprehensive health insurance plan and the means of enrollment. Requires each writing carrier to pay an agent's referral fee, in an amount to be determined by the association, to each insurance agent referring an applicant to the State comprehensive health insurance plan, if the application is accepted. Title II: Program of Assistance to States for Assisting Low-Income Individuals to Purchase Comprehensive Health Insurance - Comprehensive Health Insurance Assistance Act of 1987 - Adds a new title XXI to the Social Security Act entitled "Grants to States for Assistance to Low-Income Individuals in the Purchase of Comprehensive Health Insurance." Authorizes appropriations under title XXI to enable each State to provide assistance to low-income individuals in the purchase of comprehensive health insurance under title XXI. Specifies the amount authorized for each fiscal year. Requires the sums made available under this title to be used to make payments to States which have submitted, and had approved by the Secretary, State plans for comprehensive health insurance assistance to low-income individuals. Directs the Secretary to pay each State with an approved plan, from the sums appropriated, an amount equal to 50 percent of the sums expended which are attributable either to assistance under the plan to low-income individuals or to plan administration. Prohibits such amount, during any quarter, from exceeding the product of $1.88 and the State's population. Requires a State plan for comprehensive health insurance assistance to low-income individuals, in order to be approved by the Secretary, to: (1) be in effect in all political subdivisions of the State; (2) provide for financial participation by the State equal to at least 40 percent of the non-Federal share of the expenditures under the plan with respect to which payments that are authorized by title XXI, and provide for financial participation by the State equal to all of such non-Federal share or provide for distribution of funds from Federal or State sources, for carrying out the State plan on an equalization or other basis which will assure that the lack of adequate funds from local sources will not result in a lowering of assistance; (3) provide for the designation of an appropriate State agency to administer the plan; (4) prevent the disclosure of information for purposes not connected with the plan; (5) provide for reports to the Secretary; (6) make assistance available to low-income individuals to purchase plans; (7) establish reasonable standards for determining eligibility for and the extent of assistance; (8) make available the opportunity to apply for assistance to any individual; and (9) grant an opportunity for a fair hearing before a State agency to any individual whose claim for assistance under the plan is denied or not acted upon with reasonable promptness. Prohibits payments to a State if, after notice and opportunity for a hearing, the Secretary finds that a State's plan is not in compliance with provisions of this Act. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for false statements, misrepresentations, concealments, and conversions made in connection with the application for, sale of, or receipt of benefits under a plan. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to provide for special treatment in determining the eligibility for medical assistance of an institutionalized spouse. Declares that the provisions supersede any other provision of such title and that no comparable treatment is required. Sets forth rules for treatment of income and resources. Protects income for the community spouse by requiring certain allowances to be offset from the income of the institutionalized spouse and by requiring each State to establish a minimum monthly maintenance needs allowance for each community spouse. Provides for notice and fair hearing regarding a determination of eligibility, the amount of the community spouse monthly income allowance, the amount of any family allowances, and the method for computing the amount of the community spouse resources allowance. Permits an institutionalized spouse to transfer certain resources to the community spouse. Requires the State plan for medical assistance to provide for a period of ineligibility for institutionalized spouses who disposed of resources during the 24-month period before applying for assistance for less than fair market value. Sets forth exceptions to the requirement: (1) for homes or other resources transferred to the individuals's spouse or child who meets certain requirements; (2) on a showing of intent to dispose of the resources at fair value or for other valuable consideration; (3) on a showing that the transfers were exclusively for a purpose other than to qualify for medical assistance; and (4) if denial would work an undue hardship. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to study and report to the Congress regarding the means for recovering amounts from the estates of deceased Medicaid beneficiaries to pay for certain assistance furnished. Title III: Program of Assistance to States for Assisting Individuals Who Incur Catastrophic Expenses for Health Care - Catastrophic Health Care Expenses Assistance Act of 1987 - Amends the Social Security Act to add a new title XXII entitled "Grants to States for Assistance to Individuals Incurring Catastrophic Expenses for Health Care." Authorizes appropriations for each fiscal year to enable each State to furnish medical assistance for catastrophic illness. Requires a State to have submitted and have approved by the Secretary a plan for medical assistance for catastrophic illness. Directs the Secretary to pay each State with an approved plan, from the sums appropriated, an amount equal to 50 percent of the sums expended which are attributable either to payments made under the plan to eligible individuals or to plan administration. Prohibits such amount, during any quarter, from exceeding the product of $0.625 and the State's population. Prohibits payment with respect to expenses: (1) if the charges on which the expenses are based are not reasonable; (2) for inpatient hospital services if the charge exceeds the hospital's customary charge; (3) for health services which were not medically necessary; (4) for services provided by a provider not in compliance with appropriate regulations; (5) for services provided by a hospital or skilled nursing facility if the appropriate utilization review plan is not in effect; or (6) for which a private insurer would be obligated but for a provision in its contract which limits its obligation if an individual is covered under this title. Declares that a State plan for medical assistance for catastrophic illness, in order to be approved by the Secretary, shall: (1) be in effect in all political subdivisions of the State; (2) provide for financial participation by the State equal to at least 40 percent of the non-Federal share of the expenditures under the plan with respect to authorized payments under title XXII, and provide for financial participation by the State equal to all of such non-Federal share or provide for distribution of funds from Federal or State sources, for carrying out the State plan on an equalization or other basis which will assure that the lack of adequate funds from local sources will not result in a lowering of assistance; (3) provide for the designation of an appropriate State agency to administer the plan; (4) prevent the disclosure of information for purposes not connected with the plan; (5) provide for reports to the Secretary; (6) provide for paying at least 90 percent of all qualified expenses annually of an eligible individual and the individual's dependents in excess of the greater of $3,000 (or a lower amount which the State may establish) or the sum of 30 percent of household income under $25,000, plus 40 percent of household income between $25,000 and $40,000, plus 50 percent of household income in excess of $40,000 (or such lower respective percentages, or such higher incomes, as the State may establish); (7) provide for paying 100 percent of all qualified nursing home expenses of an eligible individual and the individual's dependents in excess of 20 percent of household income (or such lower percentage as the State may establish); (8) prohibit charging any premiums, copayments, or deductibles, except as provided above; (9) provide safeguards against excessive charges and the unnecessary utilization of services; (10) establish reasonable standards for determining eligibility for and the extent of assistance; (11) make available the opportunity to apply for assistance to any individual; (12) grant an opportunity to apply before a State agency to any individual whose claim for assistance under the plan is denied or not acted upon with reasonable promptness; (13) seek reimbursement from any legally liable third party; and (14) provide that payment for services shall be made only to providers and beneficiaries. Prohibits payments to a State if, after notice and opportunity for a hearing, the Secretary finds that a State's plan is not in compliance with the provisions of this Act. Sets forth definitions used in this title. Defines an "eligible individual" as an individual who incurs an obligation to pay, in a consecutive 12-month period, expenses (including dependent's expenses) exceeding the greater of $3,000 (or such lower amount as the State may establish) or 30 percent of household income up to $25,000, plus 40 percent of household income between $25,000 and $40,000, plus 50 percent of household income in excess of $40,000 (or such lower respective percentages of such incomes, or of such higher incomes as the State may establish). Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for false statements, misrepresentations, concealments, and conversions made in connection with the application for or right to the assistance provided under this title.
United States · United States Congress · 11 December 1987
Designates the period of June 11 through June 18, 1988, as National Dairy Goat Awareness Week.
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 1987
Amends Federal veterans' benefits provisions to direct the American Battle Monuments Commission to establish a memorial and museum on Federal land in the District of Columbia or its immediate area to honor World War II veterans and to commemorate U.S. participation in that conflict. Directs the Commission to plan, design, construct, and oversee the operation of the memorial and museum. Establishes the World War II Memorial and Museum Advisory Board to: (1) promote the establishment of the memorial and museum and encourage the donation of private funds for construction and maintenance; and (2) recommend the site and select the design for the memorial and museum, subject to the approval of the Commission. Authorizes the Commission to solicit private contributions for such memorial and museum. Authorizes Federal funding, in addition to such private funds, for preparation, planning, establishment, construction, and maintenance of the memorial and museum. Authorizes assistance from specified Federal departments and agencies. Authorizes Federal property to be transferred to the Commission, or authorizes the Commission to purchase suitable property within the District of Columbia for the establishment of such memorial and museum.
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 1987
Expresses the gratitude of the U.S. Government to Ray A. Barnhart, retiring Federal Highway Administrator, for his efforts to preserve and improve the Federal-Aid Highway System.
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 1987
Designates the week of May 1 through May 7, 1988, as National Older Americans Abuse Prevention Week.
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 1987
Designates the week of April 17, 1988, as Crime Victims Week.
United States · United States Congress · 8 December 1987
Amends the Internal Revenue Code with respect to the targeted jobs income tax credit. Extends the credit to employees who begin work in 1989 through 1991. (Current law terminates the credit for employees who begin work after December 31, 1988.) Includes as a targeted group individuals aged 65 or older who are members of economically disadvantaged families. Revises the minimum employment period requirement for purposes of this credit.
United States · United States Congress · 8 December 1987
Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans Affairs to establish a program for the discounted sale of real property, manufactured homes, and lots to which a manufactured home is affixed which have been acquired by foreclosure and held for an extended time by the Veterans Administration. Limits such sales to Vietnam era veterans who are eligible for housing loan benefits. Allows such property to be sold at: (1) not less than 80 percent of the regular price for property offered for sale for at least three months but less than seven months; (2) not less than 75 percent of the regular price of property offered for sale for at least seven months but less than a year; and (3) not less than 70 percent of the regular price for property offered for sale for at least one year.
United States · United States Congress · 8 December 1987
Condemns the failure of the National Governing Council of Haiti to: (1) support a constitutional transition to democracy; and (2) provide security and adequate protection for the human rights of the people of Haiti and for the security of diplomats. Declares that it is the policy of the United States to suspend all assistance to Haiti, with exceptions, unless the democratic process set forth in the Haitian Constitution (approved March 29, 1987), especially those provisions relating to the Provisional Electoral Council, is being fully adhered to by the Government of Haiti. Directs the President to take steps to promote human rights and democracy in Haiti. Urges, specifically, that the President: (1) use the vote and influence of the United States to halt or discourage the provision of assistance to Haiti by international financial institutions and organizations and other governments; (2) undertake diplomatic initiatives to secure international cooperation to maximize diplomatic and economic pressure on Haiti; (3) suspend Haiti's eligibility for benefits under the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act; (4) furnish assistance to the news media in Haiti; (5) furnish assistance to private, voluntary and international organizations, and foreign governments, which might include U.S. participation in international peacekeeping activities; (6) sever diplomatic relations with the National Governing Council; (7) recognize an alternative entity, which is committed to a prompt transition to democracy, as the legitimate government of Haiti; and (8) impose, and seek international cooperation to multilaterally impose, an arms embargo and trade and financial sanctions against the Government of Haiti. Authorizes and urges the President to deny visas to, and exclude from admission to the United States, aliens (and family members and associates thereof) who have been involved in the denial of human rights in Haiti or in activities designed to impair Haiti's transition to democracy. Suspends all assistance to Haiti, with specified exceptions (such as assistance provided by voluntary organizations to meet humanitarian needs, assistance to enable the continuation of migrant and narcotics interdiction operations, and assistance for constitutional elections), unless the democratic process as set forth in the Haitian Constitution is fully adhered to by the Government of Haiti. Specifies that such adherence must include transition to a civilian government elected under the auspices of the Provisional Electoral Council by February 7, 1988. Authorizes the President to provide such assistance as appropriate related to the holding of elections. Requires the President to notify the Congress with respect to: (1) any such assistance provided; (2) actions taken pursuant to this Act; and (3) progress in promoting human rights and democracy in Haiti.
United States · United States Congress · 8 December 1987
Expresses the sense of the Congress that, in celebration of the millennium of the Christianization of Kievan-Rus', the Soviet Union should: (1) comply with its international obligations and allow Christians to practice their faith without harassment; (2) grant a general amnesty for all Christians who have been imprisoned because of their religious beliefs; (3) allow religious believers to practice their faith freely; (4) permit unlimited publication, distribution, and importation of religious materials; and (5) allow closed churches to reopen, new churches to be built, and theological seminaries to open or expand.
United States · United States Congress · 3 December 1987
Pro Competition Cargo Allocation Act of 1987 - Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1936 to repeal various provisions relating to cargo preference shipping requirements for certain agricultural exports, including provisions relating to preserving the percentage share or metric tonnage of certain commodities of waterborne cargoes exported from Great Lakes ports.
United States · United States Congress · 2 December 1987
Designates the week of April 10 through April 16, 1988, as National Productivity Improvement Week.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1987
Designates March 16, 1988, as Freedom of Information Day.
United States · United States Congress · 19 November 1987
Act for Better Child Care Services of 1987 - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 and such sums as necessary for FY 1989 through 1992 to carry out the purposes of this Act. Specifies the manner of making allotments for child care services. Requires the designation of a lead agency in each State which participates in the programs under this Act. Requires States to submit, in order to qualify for assistance under this Act, an application and plan to the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Requires each plan to cover a five-year period and to meet specified requirements for providers of child care services. Authorizes the use of State allotments: (1) by contracts with or grants to eligible child care providers, or public or private nonprofit agencies, to enable such providers or agencies to operate programs directly or by subcontract; or (2) by distributing child care certificates that parents may use as payment for child care services. Requires that a percentage of funds be reserved to enable part-day programs to extend existing hours of operation and provide full-day child care services. Authorizes the Secretary to make planning grants to States which desire to participate under this Act but cannot fully satisfy the requirements of a State plan without financial assistance. Provides for a review of the operation of a State plan during the five-year period to determine its continued eligibility for funds. Requires the Governor of each participating State to establish: (1) a State interagency advisory committee on child care to assist the lead agency in carrying out its responsibilities; and (2) a State committee on licensing to review the licensing requirements, the law, and the policies regulating child care services and programs within the State. Requires each participating State to recognized private nonprofit community-based organizations, or public organizations, as resources and referral agencies for particular geographic areas. Requires each participating State to require that all employed or self-employed persons providing licensed or regulated child care complete at least 15 hours per year of inservice, continuing education, or other training as described in this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish within the Department of Health and Human Services an Administrator of Child Care to carry out the provisions of this Act. Establishes enforcement provisions for review of State plans and monitoring of State compliance. Declares the Federal share of child care programs to be 80 percent and requires the State to demonstrate that the remaining 20 percent will be provided from other sources. Requires the Secretary to establish a National Advisory Committee on Child Care Standards to: (1) review Federal policies on child care services and such other data as appropriate; (2) submit to the Secretary proposed minimum standards for child care programs; and (3) develop and make available to lead agencies model regulations for resources and referral agencies. Terminates the committee 90 days after the date of publication of final minimum child care standards. Prohibits the use of funds under this Act for: (1) sectarian purposes or activities; (2) capital improvements to sectarian institutions; and (3) tuition.
United States · United States Congress · 17 November 1987
Designates the week of February 7 through February 13, 1988, as National Child Passenger Safety Awareness Week.
United States · United States Congress · 10 November 1987
Authorizes the Vietnam Women's Memorial Project, Inc., to establish a commemorative statue within the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to recognize and honor the women of the U.S. armed forces who served in the Vietnam war. Expresses the sense of the Congress that after the addition of such statue, no further commemorative works should be added to the Memorial. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to select a site for the statue within the Memorial. Makes the design proposal subject to the approval of the Secretary and the National Capital Planning Commission. Prohibits the United States and the District of Columbia from paying any expense of establishing the statue.
United States · United States Congress · 10 November 1987
Directs the Secretary of Commerce to adjust census figures as necessary so that illegal aliens shall not be counted for purposes of the apportionment of Representatives in the Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 4 November 1987
Designates February 4, 1988, as National Women in Sports Day.
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1987
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the people of the United States should purchase U.S. products and services whenever possible. Urges the President and the State Governors to issue proclamations calling upon the people to promote this policy with appropriate ceremonies and activities. Requests that leaders of civic and consumer organizations, and of the mass media, assist in: (1) promoting awareness of the importance of selecting U.S. goods and services; and (2) identifying such American goods and services, and the merchants from whom they may be acquired. Requests and encourages U.S. producers and manufacturers to make every effort to label and advertise the U.S. origin of such goods.
United States · United States Congress · 29 October 1987
Driftnet Impact Monitoring, Assessment, and Control Act of 1987 - Directs the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) and the Secretary of the Interior, to initiate negotiations with each foreign government that conducts, or authorizes its nationals to conduct, driftnet fishing concerning marine resources of the United States, in certain waters of the North Pacific Ocean, for the purpose of entering into agreements regarding cooperative monitoring and assessment of the numbers of marine resources of the United States killed and retrieved, discarded, or lost by the foreign government's driftnet fishing vessels. Authorizes the Secretary to deny any permit, for fishing or for receiving at sea or transporting U.S. harvested fish, to any vessel of any foreign government that fails to enter into such an agreement. Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress regarding the results of the negotiations. Directs the Secretary to provide to the Congress a report identifying the nature, extent, and effects of driftnet fishing on U.S. marine resources. Directs the Secretary to request relevant information from foreign governments and to include such information in the report, along with an evaluation of the adequacy and reliability of such information. Directs the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary and the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating, to initiate negotiations with foreign governments that conduct driftnet fishing in certain North Pacific Ocean waters for the purpose of entering into agreements for the enforcement of laws regarding the foreign government's driftnet fishing vessels. Directs the Secretary of State to certify to the President any foreign government's failure to enter into an enforcement agreement. Deems such certification to be a certification for the purposes of the Fishermen's Protective Act of 1967 relating to restrictions on the importation of fishery or wildlife products from countries which violate international fishery or endangered or threatened species programs. Directs the Secretary to evaluate the feasibility of and develop recommendations for: (1) the establishment of a driftnet marking, registry, and identification system; and (2) the use of alternative materials in driftnets to increase the rate of decomposition of driftnets discharged or lost at sea. Requires a report to the Congress on such recommendations. Declares that this Act does not expand or diminish the sovereign rights of the United States as stated in a specified presidential proclamation. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1987
Goose, Gander, and Sauce Act of 1987 - Declares that the pay of any person employed by the United States is subject to garnishment, execution, levy, attachment, and other legal process in the same manner as persons not employed by the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1987
Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to establish a fine of not more than $50,000, or imprisonment for up to five years, or both, as criminal penalties for any person who knowingly and without authority tampers with a smoke detection device of an aircraft used for air transportation.
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1987
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) raise from $5,000,000 to $25,000,000 the threshold amount of tax-exempt bonds that a small governmental unit may issue and still remain within the exception from arbitrage rebate requirements; and (2) increase from ten percent to 25 percent the amount of tax-exempt government bond proceeds that may be used by a nongovernmental entity for private purposes without triggering treatment of the bond issue as a taxable private activity bond. Limits the latter provision to governmental issuers whose reasonably anticipated amount of tax-exempt obligations to be issued during the calendar year is $25,000,000 or less. Caps at $25,000,000 the amount of bonds to which the issuer may apply the 25 percent private use test in any year.
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 1987
Designates the week of June 5 through June 11, 1988, as National NHS-NeighborWorks Week.
United States · United States Congress · 20 October 1987
Waives time limitations relating to the award of a medal of honor to a named individual for acts of heroism during World War II.