United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1976
Increases from 36 to 45 months the period of entitlement for educational assistance for eligible veterans. Eliminates the ten-year time limitation within which such assistance must be used. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 1661; 1662)
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1976
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a limited tax credit in an amount of $250 for each individual who is at least 61 years of age before the beginning of the taxable year, whose principal place of abode during the taxable year is the principal residence of the taxpayer, and who is not a lodger with the taxpayer.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1976
Allows an eligible veteran who is pursuing a program of education at the close of the ten-year delimiting period to continue to receive educational assistance until he completes such program, or until he ceases to pursue such program, whichever first occurs. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 1662(a))
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1976
Federal Election Campaign Reform Act - Title I: Reestablishment of the Federal Election Commission - Abolishes the Federal Election Commission established by the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 effective February 29, 1976. Provides that the President shall appoint by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, six members of the newly established Federal Election Commission for six-year terms. States that the Secretary of the Senate and Clerk of the House of Representatives shall serve as ex officio members of the Commission without the right to vote. Requires the members of the present Commission to serve on the new Commission until all of the new members are appointed and qualified and to carry out such of the Commission's functions as are consistent with recent specified decisions of the Supreme Court of the United States. Transfers all personnel, property, records, contracts, and liabilities consistent with such decision to the Commission established by this Act from the Commission abolished by this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated to carry out the functions of the Commission $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1976, $2,500,000 for the period July 1, 1976 through September 30, 1976, and $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1977. Title II: Public Financing of Primary Elections and General Elections for the Senate - Declares that to be eligible for payments to match campaign funds in a Senatorial primary election a candidate must raise the lesser of 20 percent of the maximum amount he may spend in connection with his primary election campaign as allowed by law or $125,000. Requires no minimum amount in Senatorial primary runoff elections. Sets no minimum contribution collection limits for Senatorial candidates of major parties in a general election but any other Senatorial candidates must meet the same minimums set by this Act for major primary elections to be eligible for matching payments in a general election. States that no individual's contribution to a single candidate shall be considered for matching funds to the extent that such contribution exceeds $100. Allows matching payments to Senatorial candidates of major parties in a general election equal to the maximum he may expend in such election as allowed by law. Allows payments to all other qualified candidates in a Senatorial general election according to a specified formula. Prohibits payments to any candidate under this Act which when added to the other sums received by him exceeds the maximum expenditure limitation now imposed by law. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to maintain within the Presidential Election Campaign Fund the Senate Election Account. Requires all funds deposited in the Fund and not used for Presidential elections and conventions to be credited to the Account to finance the provisions of this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to supplement such credited funds to carry out the provisions of this Act. Requires the Commission to audit the records of each candidate receiving payments under this Act. Requires such candidates to refund such payments the Commission determines were made in excess of those allowed by this Act or which were not used for campaign expenses. Directs each candidate to send to the Commission from time to time a statement of expenditures which he and his authorized committees have incurred or plan to incurr. Requires the Commission to publicize such statement. Requires the Commission, after the close of each calendar year, to report to the Senate all expenditures each candidate has made, amounts certified for payment to such candidate, and amounts required from each candidate and the reasons for each payment required. Sets penalties for violating this Act. Title III: Public Financing of Primary Elections and General Elections for the House of Representatives - Defines the terms for purposes of this title. Declares that to be eligible for payments to match campaign funds in a primary election for nomination by a political party to the office of Representative a candidate must raise 20 percent of the maximum amount he may spend in connection with such campaign as allowed by law. Sets forth for other elections for Representative the same eligibility criteria as set forth in title II of this Act for Senatorial election candidates. Entitles every eligible candidate for the office of Representative in a primary election to payments equal in amount to funds he accepts for a primary election campaign but not more than one-half the amount he is allowed to spend for such campaign by law. Sets the same entitlement criteria for other elections as provided for Senatorial candidates in title II of this Act. Sets forth the same provisions for Representative candidates as apply to Senatorial candidates for: (1) certification by the Commission; (2) examination, audits, and repayments; (3) information on expenditures and proposed expenditures; (4) reports to Congress; and (5) penalties for violation of this Act. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to maintain within the Presidential Election Campaign Fund the House Election Account. Requires that all funds deposited in the Fund and not used for Presidential elections and conventions or Senatorial elections be deposited into such account to be used for matching campaign fund payments for Representative candidates as provided by this Act. Title IV: Limitation on Mass Mailings - Extends the prohibition of the use of the Congressional franking privilege from 28 days prior to an election to 60 days prior to an election.
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1976
Nuclear Energy Reappraisal Act - Directs the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to cease the granting of licenses or construction authorizations for nuclear fission powerplants pending the outcome of a comprehensive study by the Office of Technology Assessment. Continues such termination until Congress determines that safety and environmental hazards have been adequately studied and that nuclear fission plants are clearly superior to other energy sources. Authorizes a resumption of licensing under limited conditions which shall be specified by Congress. Requires a five-year independent study of the nuclear fuel cycle by the Office of Technology Assessment. Empowers the Office to compel delivery of any information necessary for conducting such study. Directs all government agencies to cooperate fully with the Office. Requires the preparation of a final report with recommendations at the end of five years and annual progress reports. Requires the following specific issues to be considered in the final report: (1) safety and environmental hazards, including an analysis of reported malfunctions; (2) genetic effects of low level radiation; (3) economic implications of a long-term nature; (4) proliferation dangers; (5) economical and technical capabilities of utilities; and (6) licensing procedures of past regulatory agencies. Stipulates that existing nuclear fission powerplants shall operate at less than licensed core power level and be annually derated should Congress fail to determine that the licensing of fission plants may continue after conclusion of the study. Authorizes the appropriation of $15,000,000 per year for each of the five fiscal years following the date of enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1976
Establishes the Potomac National River in Maryland, Viginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire specified lands and interests in lands within the boundaries of such national river. Directs the Secretary to encourage and assist the jurisdictions in which the national river is located to plan, acquire, develop, and manage lands within and adjacent to the national river for recreation, fish and wildlife conservation, historic preservation, or similar purposes. Authorizes the Secretary to make supplemental grants to such jurisdictions for acquisition of lands and interests in lands within 2,000 feet of the banks of the Potomac River. Permits hunting on lands within the national river which are under the jurisdiction of the Secretary. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements with non-Federal public bodies for the operation and management by the Secretary or such public bodies of lands within the national river in accordance with a mutually acceptable management plan. Directs the Secretary to formulate and transmit to appropriate Congressional committees within three years from the date of the enactment of this Act a plan for the development and use of lands within the national river. Includes the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park and the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park as identifiable units of the national river and stipulates that such historical parks shall continue to be administered separately in accordance with their respective enabling acts. Establishes a Potomac National River Advisory Commission to advise and consult with other Federal agencies, State agencies, local governments, and persons on matters relating to recreation, historic preservation, scenic protection, and resource conservation within and in the vicinity of the national river. Directs the Secretary to report to Congress within two years after the date of enactment of this Act recommendations as to extension of the national river from the area established by this Act to the Potomac River's source at Fairfax Stone, West Virginia, and to its mouth at the Chesapeake Bay. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to effectuate the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1976
Increases, under the Social Security Act and the Internal Revenue Code, the ceiling on the amount of earnings which may be counted for social security benefit and tax purposes. Sets forth proposed ceilings of $15,300 for calendar year 1976, $22,200 for calendar year 1977, $26,100 for calendar year 1978, and $28,500 for calendar year 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1976
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a limited tax credit in an amount of $250 for each individual who is at least 61 years of age before the beginning of the taxable year, whose principal place of abode during the taxable year is the principal residence of the taxpayer, and who is not a lodger with the taxpayer.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1976
Military Construction Authorization Act - Title I: - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to expend specified amounts to establish or develop military installations and facilities by acquiring, constructing, converting, rehabilitating, or installing permanent or temporary public works, including land acquisition, site preparation, appurtenances, utilities, and equipment for specified acquisition and construction. Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to establish or develop Army installations and facilities by proceeding with construction made necessary by changes in Army missions and responsibilities which have been occasioned by: (1) unforeseen security considerations, (2) new weapons developments, (3) new and unforeseen research and development requirements, or (4) improved production schedules if the Secretary of Defense determines that deferral of such construction for inclusion in the next Military Construction Authorization Act would be inconsistent with interests of national security, and in connection therewith to acquire, construct, convert, rehabilitate, or install permanent or temporary public works. Title II: - Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to expend specified amounts to establish or develop military installations and facilities by acquiring, constructing, converting, rehabilitating, or installing permanent or temporary public works, including land acquisition, site preparation, appurtenances, utilities, and equipment for specified acquisition and construction. Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to establish or develop Navy installations and facilities by proceeding with construction made necessary by changes in Navy missions and responsibilities which have been occasioned by: (1) unforeseen security considerations, (2) new weapons developments, (3) new and unforeseen research and development requirements, or (4) improved production schedules, if the Secretary of Defense determines that deferral of such construction for inclusion in the next Military Construction Authorization Act would be inconsistent with interests of national security, and in connection therewith to acquire, construct, convert, rehabilitate, or install permanent or temporary public works. Title III: - Authorizes the Secretary of the Air Force to expend specified amounts to establish or develop military installations and facilities by acquiring, constructing, converting, rehabilitating, or installing permanent or temporary public works, including land acquisition, site preparation, appurtenances, utilities, and equipment, for specified acquisition and construction. Authorizes the Secretary of the Air Force to establish or develop Air Force installations and facilities by proceeding with construction made necessary by changes in Air Force missions and responsibilities which have been occasioned by: (1) unforeseen security considerations, (2) new weapons developments, (3) new and unforeseen research and development requirements, or (4) improved production schedules, if the Secretary of Defense determines that deferral of such construction for inclusion in the next Military Construction Authorization Act would be inconsistent with interests of national security, and in connection therewith to acquire, construct, convert, rehabilitate, or install permanent or temporary public works. Title IV: - Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to expend specified amounts to establish or develop military installations and facilities by acquiring, constructing, converting, rehabilitating, or installing permanent or temporary public works, including land acquisition, site preparation, appurtenances, utilities and equipment, for defense agencies for acquisition and construction. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to establish or develop installations and facilities which he determines to be vital to the security of the United States, and in connection therewith to acquire, construct, convert, rehabilitate, or install permanent or temporary public works. Title V: Military Family Housing - Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to construct or acquire sole interest in existing family housing units in the numbers and at the locations hereinafter named, but no family housing construction shall be commenced at any such locations in the United States until the Secretary shall have consulted with the Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development as to the availability of suitable private housing at such locations. Title VI: General Provisions - Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to carry out this Act. Title VII: Guard and Reserve Forces Facilities - Guard and Reserve Forces Facilities Authorization Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to establish or develop additional facilities for the Guard and Reserve Forces. Title VII : Military Construction Authorization Act - Stipulates that the Secretary of Defense and the Secretaries of the Army, Navy and Air Force may establish or develop military installations and facilities by acquiring, constructing, converting, rehabilitating, or installing permanent or temporary public works, including land acquisition, site preparation, appurtenances, utilities and equipment beginning with fiscal year 1978 in specified amounts.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1976
Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to require that comprehensive State plans under such Act include provisions for the prevention of crimes against the elderly.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1976
School Safety Act - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to furnish financial assistance to aid local educational agencies in providing security for children, employees, and facilities in elementary and secondary schools by reducing and preventing crimes against them and to assure that crimes committed in schools are reported to local law enforcement agencies. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. Permits a local educational agency to receive a grant under this Act only upon the determination of the Commissioner of Education that the local agency has adopted and is implementing, or will implement with financial assistance received pursuant to these provisions, a plan to reduce crime and increase the safety and security of the students, employees, and facilities of the schools. Sets forth specified measures to be covered by such plans, including: (1) the acquisition of additional staff members; (2) planning and evaluation activities; and (3) minor alterations of school plants and facilities.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1976
Establishes an 11 member Commission on the Humane Treatment of Animals to study the treatment of animals. Requires that the membership include zoologists, veterinarians, and representatives from humane societies. Requires the Commission to determine if animals are caused needless pain or suffering as a result of their treatment: (1) on farms; (2) in zoos; (3) in laboratory experimentation; and (4) in other situations. Excludes the study or treatment of animals occurring in connection with the exercise of any religion. Directs the Commission to report its findings to the Congress and the President within two years after its last member is appointed. Terminates the Commission 60 days after it submits its final report. Authorizes appropriaions of $750,000 per year to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1976
Expresses the solidarity of the American people in efforts to enlarge human freedom by the participants in the second Brussels conference, February 17 to 19, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1976
Teritary Eye Center Act - Sets forth the Congressional finding that there is a national need for refurbishing, centralizing, and upgrading tertiary eye care centers. Defines "tertiary eye care center" and other terms for purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to identify tertiary eye care centers that need upgrading and to make grants to accomplish such purpose. Directs the Secretary to create a Tertiary Eye Commission to assess the present state of eye care facilities in the United States, to develop plans for improving and expanding such facilities, and to make grants to public and nonprofit private teritary eye care centers to implement such upgrading. Requires the commission, within two years of enactment of this Act, to submit to the Secretary and the President a final report, and to submit such interim reports as are necessary, with respect to its activities. Authorizes the appropriation of $21,000,000 to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1976
Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to provide that members of the Federal Election Commission shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1976
Establishes in the White House Office the position of Special Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs. Provides that the Special Assistant shall be responsible for advising the President on policies relating to the national security and for supervising the National Security Council.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1976
Lifeline Rate Act - Stipulates that no rate schedule of an electric utility shall result in a greater per kilowatt-hour charge to residential electric consumers for a subsistence quantity of electric energy than the lowest charge to any other electric consumer. Sets forth procedures for civil suits and judicial review where violations by utilities as regulatory authorities are alleged under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1976
Authorizes payment under the supplementary medical insurance program of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act for hearing aids and dentures.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1976
Prohibits the Central Intelligence Agency, the Defense Intelligence Agency, the National Security Agency, or any other intelligence- gathering office or agency of the Department of Defense from using its funds to pay any clergyman or employee or affiliate of a religious organization for intelligence-gathering services. Prohibits anyone from soliciting or accepting the services of such persons for such agencies or offices. Provides a penalty of up to a $10,000 fine or imprisonment for up to five years or both for violations of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1976
Creates a nine member House Select Committee on the Fiscal Problems of Cities. Directs the committee to conduct a study to identify the nature and causes of problems afflicting large cities which face severe fiscal imbalance. Provides that consideration shall be given problems which contribute to the financial plight of cities, including: (1) net outmigration of population; (2) decline in employment opportunities; (3) adverse city/suburban relationships; (4) cost of public services; (5) rising crime rates; (6) lack of new investment in housing; and (7) racial, ethnic, and economic segregation. Calls upon the committee to develop a policy regarding the appropriate role of various levels of government in the solution of such problems. Requires the committee to evaluate the consequences of, and coordination among, existing Federal policies and programs which relate to the major problems identified by the committee. Directs the committee to formulate specific recommendations regarding Federal legislation and executive administrative action for modifications of or alternatives to present Federal programs.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1976
Amends the Social Security Act to maintain the inpatient hospital deductible under the medicare program at the level which was applicable during calendar year 1975.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1976
Toxic Substances Control Act - Declares that it is the policy of the United States that: (1) hazardous and potentially hazardous chemical substances and mixtures should be adequately tested with respect to their effect on health and the environment and that such testing should be the responsibility of those who manufacture and those who process such chemical substances and mixtures; (2) adequate authority should exist to regulate chemical substances and mixtures which cause or contribute to an unreasonable risk to health or the environment, and to take action with respect to chemical substances and mixtures which are imminent hazards; and (3) authority over chemical substances and mixtures should be exercised in such a manner as not unduly to impede, or to create unnecessary economic barriers to, technological innovation while fulfilling the primary purpose of this Act to assure that such innovation and commerce in such chemical substances and mixtures do not cause or contribute to an unreasonable risk to health or the environment. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to require that testing be conducted on a substance or mixture to develop data with respect to the health and environmental effects for which there is an insufficiency of data and experience and which are relevant to a determination that the manufacture, distribution in commerce, processing, use, or disposal of such substance or mixture does or does not cause or contribute to an unreasonable risk to health or the environment when he makes findings enumerated in this Act. Directs the Administrator to consider all relevant factors in promulgating rules under this Act, including the effect on the competitive position of the person required to provide reimbursement in relation to the persons to be reimbursed and the share of the market for such substance or mixture of the person required to provide reimbursement in relation to the share of such market of the persons to be reimbursed. Establishes a committee to make recommendations to the Administrator respecting the chemical substances and mixtures to which the Administrator should give priority consideration for the promulgation of a rule under this Act. Requires that in making such a determination with respect to any chemical substance or mixture, the committee shall consider all relevant factors, including: (1) the quantities in which the substance or mixture is or will be manufactured; (2) the quantities in which the substance or mixture enters the environment; (3) the number of persons who will be exposed to the substance or mixture in their places of employment and the duration of such exposure; (4) the extent of human exposure to the substance or mixture; (5) the extent to which the substance or mixture is closely related to a chemical substance or mixture which is known to cause or contribute to an unreasonable risk to health or the environment; and (6) the existence of data concerning the effects of the substance or mixture on health or the environment. Directs the Administrator to promulgate rules under which: (1) each person who manufactures or processes or proposes to manufacture or process a chemical substance shall maintain such records, and shall submit to the Administrator such reports, as the Administrator may reasonably require, and (2) each person who manufactures or processes or proposes to manufacture or process a mixture, or a chemical substance in small quantities (as defined by the Administrator by rule) solely for scientific experimentation or analysis or for chemical research or analysis, including such research or analysis for the development of a product, shall maintain records and submit to the Administrator reports but only to the extent the Administrator determines the maintenance of records or submission of reports, or both, is necessary for the effective enforcement of the Act. Requires the Administrator, in consultation and cooperation with the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare and with other heads of appropriate agencies, to conduct such research and monitoring as is necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act. Requires the Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare and other heads of appropriate agencies, to design, establish, and coordinate an efficient and effective system for the retrieval of toxicological and other scientific data which could be useful to the Administrator in carrying out the purposes of this Act. Requires systematized retrieval to be developed for use by all Federal and other agencies with responsibilities in the area of regulation or study of chemical substances and mixtures and their effect on health or the environment. Limits the disclosure of data gathered under provisions of this Act. Provides for the designation of confidential information. Prohibits any discrimination against an employee for compliance with requirements of this Act. States that no employer may discharge any employee or otherwise discriminate against any employee with respect to the employee's compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment because the employee (or any person acting pursuant to the request of the employee) has: (1) commenced, caused to be commenced, or is about to commence or cause to be commenced a proceeding under this Act; (2) testified or is about to testify in any such proceeding; or (3) assisted or participated or is about to assist or participate in any manner in such a proceeding or in any other action to carry out the purposes of this Act. Provides that any employee who believes that the employee has been discharged or otherwise discriminated against by any person in violation of such provisions may, within thirty days after such alleged violation occurs, file (or have any person file on the employee's behalf) a complaint with the Secretary of Labor. Provides that upon receipt of such a complaint, the Secretary shall conduct an investigation of the violation alleged in the complaint. Sets forth criminal and civil penalties for violations of provisions of this Act. Requires the Council on Environmental Quality, in consultation with the Administrator, the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, the Secretary of Commerce, and the heads of other appropriate Federal departments or agencies, to coordinate a study of the feasibility of establishing (1) a standard classification system for chemical substances and related substances, and (2) a standard means for storing and for obtaining rapid access to information respecting such substances. Requires a report on such study to be completed and submitted to Congress not later than eighteen months after the date of the enactment of this Act. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the people of Angola should be allowed to determine their own political future without foreign interference. Expresses support for efforts by the Organization of African Unity to achieve a settlement of the conflict in Angola. Calls upon all countries to terminate military assistance to any group in Angola. States that the President should do his utmost to seek an agreement among the various parties involved in hostilities or in the support of such hostilities in Angola to terminate such hostilities. Directs the President to refrain from providing assistance of any kind, for military activities in Angola, until specifically approved by Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1976
Emergency Financial Assistance Corporation Act - Creates a body corporate to be known as the Emergency Financial Assistance Corporation to make and guarantee long-term loans at reasonable interest rates: (1) to State and local governments for public works and facilities; (2) to individuals and corporations to establish new businesses and industries and to expand or otherwise improve existing businesses and industries; and (3) to public agencies and private nonprofit and limited dividend corporations for the construction of low-and-moderate income housing, in order that vital public services may be provided, the health and welfare of our people will be safeguarded, and a full employment economy will be achieved. Provides that the Corporation shall have a capital stock of $1,000,000,000 subscribed by the United States, payment for which shall be subject to call in whole or in part by the Board of Directors. Authorizes the Corporation to issue rates, debentures, bonds, and other evidences of indebtedness up to an aggregate amount of 20 times the paid-in-capital stock of the Corporation at that time. Authorizes the Corporation to make direct loans and guarantees to State and local governments, direct loans for the benefit of business and industry, and loans for low-and-moderate income housing projects. Exempts the Corporation from the taxing authority of the United States or any State or local government. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Secretary of the Treasury $1,000,000,000 to finance the purchase of Corporation stock.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1976
Government in the Sunshine Act - States that this Act applies to the Federal Election Commission and to any agency where the collegial body comprising the agency consists of two or more individual members, at least a majority of whom are appointed to such position by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Provides that all meetings of such collegial body, or of a subdivision thereof authorized to take action on behalf of the agency, shall be open to the public. Requires such agency to make public announcement, at least one week before the meeting, of the date, place, and subject matter of the meeting, whether open or closed to the public, and the name and phone number of the official designated by the agency to respond to requests for information about the meeting. Exempts meetings when publicity would result in disclosure of matters: (1) necessary to keep secret in the interests of national defense or foreign policy; (2) not warranting an invasion of personal privacy; (3) constituting trade secrets; and (4) other matters the disclosure of which would not be in the public interest. States that the district courts of the United States shall have jurisdiction to enforce the requirements of this Act by declaratory judgment, injunctive relief, or other relief as may be appropriate. Prohibits the making of an ex parte communication relevant to the merits of the proceeding by an interested person outside the agency to anyone involved in the decisional process of the proceedings.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1976
Title I: Foreign Boycotts - Foreign Boycotts Act - Makes it the policy of the United States to oppose, under the provisions of the Export Administration Act, restrictive trade practices or boycotts imposed by foreign countries against any domestic concern of the United States. Provides for the promulgation of rules by the Secretary of Commerce to require that any domestic concern which receives a request for the furnishing of information on the signing of agreements which have the effect of furthering or supporting restrictive trade practices or boycotts by foreign countries to transmit to the Secretary a report stating specified information. Authorizes the Secretary to impose a civil penalty of up to $10,000 for violations of the requirements of this Act. Title II: Disclosure - Domestic and Foreign Investment Improved Disclosure Act - Requires notification, under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, by any investor of a proposed acquisition of more than five percent of the equity securities of any United States companys, within ten days after such acquisition, to the issuer of the security, the exchange where it is traded, and the Securities and Exchange Commission. Sets forth requirements for the statement to be filed with the Commission including: (1) the background, identity, residence, and nationality of such owner and any other person on whose behalf the purchases are to be effected; (2) the source and amount of the funds or other consideration used in making the purchase; (3) the purpose of the acquisition; and (4) the number of shares which are beneficially owned. Grants the Commission authority to seek injunctive relief as it deems necessary and appropriate to secure compliance with this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1976
Expands the boundaries of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Repeals provisions suspending the Secretary of the Interior's authority to acquire property within the National Lakeshore by condemnation when appropriate zoning agencies have in effect approved valid zoning ordinances applicable to such property. Revises provisions regarding retention of the right of use and occupancy by owners of improved property after such property has been acquired by the Secretary. Increases the membership of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Advisory Commission. Authorizes the appropriation of sums for acquisition of lands and interests in land and for development. Requires the Secretary to complete by the end of 1977 a final master plan detailing the development of the lakeshore. Details guidelines regarding rights-of-way and easements added by this Act to the lakeshore and regarding the acquisition, improvement, and use of specified lands and easements not within the expanded boundaries.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1976
Department of Education Act - Establishes an executive department to be known as the Department of Education, to be headed by a Secretary of Education appointed by the President. States that it shall be the principal function of the Department to improve the quality of education throughout the United States. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) advise the President with respect to the progress of education; (2) develop and recommend to the President appropriate policies and programs to foster the orderly growth and development of the Nation's educational facilities and resources especially in the light of long-range requirements; (3) exercise leadership at the direction of the President in coordinating Federal activities affecting education; (4) conduct continuing comprehensive surveys and collect, analyze, and disseminate relevant information concerning education in the United States; (5) provide information and such other assistance as may be authorized by the Congress to aid in the maintenance of efficient school, college, and university systems; and (6) encourage comprehensive long-range planning by State and local governments, especially with respect to coordinating Federal, State, and community educational activities at the local level. Transfers the education functions of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare to the Department of Education. Transfers various education functions of other executive departments to the Department of Education. Establishes a Federal Interagency Committee on Education to study and recommend such actions as may be necessary to assure effective coordination of Federal programs affecting education. Establishes a National Advisory Commission on Education of specified membership and qualification to review and make recommendations with respect to the administration, regulation, and operation of Federal education programs. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as are necessary to enable the Department to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 January 1976
Senior Citizen Higher Education Opportunity Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require that higher education institutions receiving Federal aid submit to the Commissioner of Education a senior citizen access plan providing for tuition-free registration of qualified senior citizens in scheduled classes and programs on a space available basis. Directs that such plan be implemented to the satisfaction of the Commissioner. Defines "qualified senior citizen" as an individual sixty years of age or older who has completed all course requirements mandated by the institution of higher learning for enrollment in the scheduled class or program. Deems that a class or program has space available if it is not fully subscribed by students other than nonpaying senior citizens. Enjoins the payment of funds or the approval of supplemental or special grants under such Act unless the institution seeking aid has established and fully implemented a senior citizen plan.
United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1976
Emergency Tenants' Loan Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make repayable emergency rent payments on behalf of tenants who are, or will be, subject to eviction proceedings as a result of being unable to make their rental payments by reason of their unemployment or underemployment. States that such payments may not be approved unless: (1) the tenant will be unable to make his rental payments; (2) the tenant has incurred a substantial reduction in income due to adverse economic conditions; (3) there is a reasonable prospect that the tenant will be able to repay the loan made by the Secretary; and (4) the rental property is the tenant's principal place of residence. Allows rental assistance for part or all of the tenant's rent up to $250 per month for a maximum of two years. Provides for interest to be charged according to the tenant's ability to pay but not more than eight percent per year. Requires that the payments be deferred until the tenant is able to pay the loan. Permits the Secretary to require security for the repayment of the loan, but provides that the Secretary may not refuse a loan for lack of security. Authorizes to be appropriated not more than $500,000,000 to carry out the purposes of this Act. Provides that no payments may be authorized after September 30, 1977. Provides penalties for any person obtaining any benefits under this Act through the giving of false information. Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress every 60 days concerning delinquent repayments and actions taken to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1976
Amends the Impoundment Control Act of 1974 by requiring the President to transmit a special message to Congress before rescinding or reserving any part of any budget authority. Declares that no rescission shall become effective until Congress has acted on a bill effecting such rescission.
United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1976
Amends the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 1974 to make individuals attending or teaching at vocational schools eligible to serve as congressional interns in the House of Representatives. Defines "vocational school" as a business or trade school in any State which admits only individuals who have completed or left elementary or secondary school, and is legally authorized to provide a program of postsecondary vocational or technical education.
United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1976
Expresses the sense of Congress that vocational education should be treated equally with other forms of education by the Congress, and executive agencies administering educational and Veterans' programs.
United States · United States Congress · 19 December 1975
Provides, under the Arms Control and Disarmament Act, that no agreement for cooperation which provides for the sale or transfer of any nuclear material or technology to any other nation, group of nations, or regional defense organization, may be entered into under the Atomic Energy Act. Provides that no license may be issued for the sale or other transfer to any nation or any person outside the United States: (1) of any nuclear reactor, (2) of one kilogram or more plutonium or highly enriched uranium, (3) of any nuclear reactor fuel unless such fuel is to be sold or transferred to a nation which is a party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, or (4) of such other nuclear material or technology as the Director of the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency may designate, until 20 legislative days after the Director has submitted a report analyzing the impact of such sale or other transfer on arms control and disarmament policies and negotiations to the President, specified Federal officers and organizations, and specified Congressional Committees.
United States · United States Congress · 19 December 1975
Increases from $10,000 to $100,000 the maximum fine for conspiracy to commit any offense against the United States. Makes $1,000,000 the maximum fine for such offense by a corporation. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 371)
United States · United States Congress · 19 December 1975
National Mental Health and Disability Advocacy Services Act - Sets forth the policy of the Congress that before any person may be involuntarily committed to a mental hospital, all court and administrative proceedings must comport with due process of law, including, but not limited to, the right of counsel. States that to help solve patients' problems which do not require litigation, yet require aid, advice, or counseling, an ombudsperson system must be provided to which all clients of any mental health, mental retardation, or geriatric care system may have access. Establishes an office of Mental Health and Disability Advocacy Services. Directs the Office to enter into contracts with States to assist them in meeting the costs of establishing and maintaining a program of mental health advocacy services. States that such contracts may not exceed 75 percent of the costs incurred in the program. Provides that the program shall include a mental health, retardation, and geriatric system ombudsperson. Prohibits any State from receiving assistance under the Community Mental Health Centers Act unless such State has established and maintains a mental health advocacy services program. Defines terms used in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 December 1975
National Commission on Victimless Crimes Act - Establishes the National Commission on Victimless Crimes. Sets forth the duties of the Commission. States that the Commission shall make an inquiry into the effect of Federal, State, and local laws with respect to victimless crimes on law enforcement, court and correctional systems, and private citizens. Directs the Commission to conduct a survey of Federal, State, and local laws with respect to victimless crimes and the enforcement of such laws (including the financial cost of enforcement) and to consider the following: (1) whether such laws should be amended or repealed; (2) the manner in which such laws should be enforced; (3) whether some problems covered by such laws may better be dealt with outside of the criminal justice system; and (4) whether some problems covered by such laws may better be dealt with through an administrative regulatory apparatus. States that the Commission shall be composed of 15 members who shall be appointed by the President. States that the membership shall include at least one representative from each of the following categories: law enforcement officials, State judges, State prosecutors, defense attorneys (including public defenders), corrections officials, State legislators, Members of Congress, an official of the United States Department of Justice, and members of relevant citizen groups. Sets forth the powers of the Commission, including the power to conduct hearings and to obtain official data from any United States government department or agency. Directs the Commission to submit a final report to the President and to Congress within 18 months after all members have been appointed. States that the Commission shall cease to exist 15 days after submission of the report.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Shelterbelt Act - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to carry out a continuous program to establish and preserve shelterbelts. Defines "shelterbelt" as a vegetative barrier with a linear configuration composed of perennial vegetation. Gives the Secretary authority to enter into agreements with landowners and operators having established shelterbelts whereby the Secretary shall make an annual payment to the landowner for the period of the agreement and shall bear a portion of the cost of establishing the shelterbelts. Provides that the landowners shall agree to place in the shelterbelt program all land subject to wind erosion and to maintain the shelterbelts.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Regulatory Agency Appointment Reform Act - Sets forth the purposes of the Act which include, the establishment of a bipartisan nominating board to submit to the President lists of individuals qualified to be appointed as commissioners of specified regulatory agencies, to provide a selection process which will insure a reduction of political influence in such selections, to provide methods to insure that official actions taken by commissioners shall not be influenced by considerations of reappointment, and to prohibit commissioners of a regulatory agency from accepting employment in an organization regulated by such agency during the 24-month period immediately after the termination of the commissioner's service on such agency. Defines terms used in this Act. Establishes as an independent agency of the Federal Government, the Federal Regulatory Agency Nominating Board to carry out the provisions of this Act. Requires each member of the Board to file an annual financial disclosure report with the Comptroller General. Provides that commissioners of regulatory agencies may only be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, from among the individuals nominated pursuant to this Act. Prohibits an individual who has been appointed as a commissioner of a regulatory agency from being appointed at any time thereafter as commissioner of such regulatory agency and, within one year after the termination of his service as a commissioner of such regulatory agency, from being appointed as commissioner of any other regulatory agency. Provides that an individual who has served as a commissioner of a regulatory agency may not represent any person before such agency in a professional capacity, or accept any employment with or compensation from any industry or for-profit organization directly affected by the activities of such agency. Directs that such prohibitions shall be enforced for the 24-month period beginning on the date on which services as a commissioner were terminated.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Employment Statistics Commission Act - Establishes the Employment Statistics Commission composed of seven members appointed by the President. Requires the Commission to review the present method of collecting and analyzing employment and unemployment information and statistics, to identify weaknesses in such method, and to formulate any necessary or appropriate new methods of collecting and analyzing such information and statistics. Requires the Commission to transmit a report to the President, with copies to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the President pro tempore of the Senate, the Committee on Education and Labor of the House of Representatives, and the Committee on Labor and Public Welfare of the Senate, within one year after the final appointment is made by the President. Terminates the Commission three months after the transmission of such report. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Denies the business tax deduction under the Internal Revenue Code for amounts paid or incurred for lobbying (including appearances before, and the sending of statements or communications) before Congress or other legislative bodies.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 1975
Emergency Tenants' Loan Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make repayable emergency rent payments on behalf of tenants who are, or will be, subject to eviction proceedings as a result of being unable to make their rental payments by reason of their unemployment or underemployment. States that such payments may not be approved unless: (1) the tenant will be unable to make his rental payments; (2) the tenant has incurred a substantial reduction in income due to adverse economic conditions; (3) there is a reasonable prospect that the tenant will be able to repay the loan made by the Secretary; and (4) the rental property is the tenant's principal place of residence. Allows rental assistance for part or all of the tenant's rent up to $250 per month for a maximum of two years. Provides for interest to be charged according to the tenant's ability to pay but not more than eight percent per annum. Requires that the payments be deferred until the tenant is able to repay the loan. Permits the Secretary to require security for the repayment of the loan, but provides that the Secretary may not refuse a loan for lack of security. Authorizes to be appropriated not more than $500,000,000 to carry out the purposes of this Act. Provides that no payments may be authorized after September 30, 1977. Provides for penalties for any person obtaining any benefits under this Act through the giving of false information. Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress every 60 days concerning delinquent repayments and actions taken to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 1975
Dedicates the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park to Justice William O. Douglas in grateful recognition of his long and outstanding service to the people of the United States as a teacher, writer, jurist, and naturalist. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to have the words "Dedicated to Justice William O. Douglas" prominently displayed on all signs bearing the name of the park and to take other actions to call to the attention of the public the fact that such park has been so dedicated. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 1975
Establishes a Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe. States that the Commission shall be composed of four Members of the House of Representatives, four Senators, and one member each of the Department of State, Defense, and Commerce, as appointed by the President. Authorizes and directs the Commission to monitor the acts of the signatories to the Final Act of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe with respect to their compliance with the articles of such Act, particularly with regard to the provisions relating to Cooperation in Humanitarian Fields.
United States · United States Congress · 15 December 1975
Requires the President to transmit to Congress copies of each Presidential proclamation and Executive order no later than two days after the issuance of such proclamation or order.
United States · United States Congress · 15 December 1975
Department of Education Act - Establishes an executive department to be known as the Department of Education to be headed by a Secretary of Education appointed by the President. States that it shall be the principal function of the Department to improve the quality of education throughout the United States. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) advise the President with respect to the progress of education; (2) develop and recommend to the President appropriate policies and programs to foster the orderly growth and development of the Nation's educational facilities and resources especially in the light of long-range requirements; (3) exercise leadership at the direction of the President in coordinating Federal activities affecting education; (4) conduct continuing comprehensive surveys, collect, analyze, and disseminate relevant information concerning education in the United States; (5) provide information and such other assistance as may be authorized by the Congress to aid in the maintenance of efficient school, college, and university systems; and (6) encourage comprehensive long-range planning by State and local governments, especially with respect to coordinating Federal, State, and community educational activities at the local level. Transfers the education functions of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare to the Department of Education. Transfers various specified education functions of other executive departments to the Department of Education. Establishes a Federal Interagency Committee on Education to study and recommend such actions as may be necessary to assure effective coordination of Federal programs affecting education. Establishes a National Advisory Commission on Education of specified membership and qualification to review and make recommendations with respect to the administration, regulation, and operation of Federal education programs. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to enable the Department to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 12 December 1975
Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to review with respect to their suitability for preservation as wilderness under the Wilderness Act specified lands in the Angeles and San Bernadino National Forests, California. Provides that the Secretary shall report his findings to the President on or before the expiration of the two-year period following the date of the enactment of this Act. Requires the President to submit recommendations to the Congress with respect to the designation of such area as wilderness.
United States · United States Congress · 11 December 1975
Prohibits carriers of Federal employee insurance from reducing or excluding health benefits without such proposed changes being published in the Federal Register and without hearings by the Civil Service Commission on such proposed changes.
![Official portrait of Rep. Ottinger, Richard L. [D-NY-20]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/o000134_200.jpg)