United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1984
Directs the Administrator of Veterans Affairs to set aside ten percent of Veterans Administration controlled intermediate-care hospital beds for veterans suffering from Alzheimer's disease and related disorders.
United States · United States Congress · 21 June 1984
Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to allow the Securities and Exchange Commission by order summarily to suspend the effectiveness of an offer for, or request or invitation for tenders of, a security (a tender offer) if the Commission determines that the required statement filed does not contain all the necessary information or that such information provided to offerees does not provide full disclosure of all material information concerning the tender offer. Requires the Commission to schedule a hearing with respect to each suspension. Prohibits any offeror from making a tender offer for or acquiring any equity securities at any time when any commission proceeding is pending against the offeror alleging a violation of this Act or of the Securities Act of 1933. Prohibits any offeror from acquiring, removing or exercising control over any assets of the issuer pursuant to a tender offer for such securities at any time when any such a Commission proceeding is pending. Prohibits any offeror from acquiring any equity securities of any class of an issuer within two years following the last purchase pursuant to a tender offer for securities of that class unless the holders of the equity securities are afforded, at the time of acquisition, a reasonable opportunity to dispose of them to the offeror upon equivalent terms as those provided in the earlier offer. Provides that all shares acquired in violation of these restrictions shall be denied voting rights for a one year period. Requires disclosure statements by principal shareholders and tender offerors to include any plans to effect: (1) a merger or consolidation with any other person; (2) a change in location of its principal office or business activities; (3) a change in management; or (4) any change that materially alters its relationship with suppliers, customers, or the communities in which the issuer operates. Requires the Commission to promulgate rules and regulations designed to prevent certain acts and practices that are fraudulent, deceptive, or manipulative. Requires a person proposing to make a control share acquisition to deliver to the issuer a statement setting forth specified information. Requires, within 55 days after receipt of such statement, a special meeting of the stockholders of the issuer to vote on the proposed control share acquisition. Permits the acquiring person to consummate the proposed control share acquisition if and only if both of the following occur: (1) the proposed acquisition is approved by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the voting power of all securities entitled to vote which are not beneficially owned by the acquiring person; and (2) the proposed acquisition is consummated within 180 days after such approval.
United States · United States Congress · 19 June 1984
Synthetic Fuels Reform and Budget Reduction Act - Provides that, except as provided below, all funds in the Energy Security Reserve shall be deposited in the Treasury and shall not be available for obligation with respect to synthetic fuels projects. Sets aside $500,000,000 of the funds in the Reserve to be made available to the Secretary of Energy to carry out a five-year program for the advanced research and development of coal utilization technologies. Provides that $2,500,000,000 which shall be available for obligations by the United States Synthetic Fuels Corporation in accordance with this Act and with the Energy Security Act, plus the funds necessary to meet obligations with respect to binding commitments entered into before enactment of this Act and still in effect, shall be retained in the Reserve. Requires the Corporation to submit for congressional approval a proposed comprehensive strategy to achieve the national synthetic production goal established under the United States Synthetic Fuels Corporation Act of 1980. Requires that such strategy be submitted within a specified time period. Requires that such strategy include a financial or investment prospectus justifying the proposed obligation of amounts retained in the Reserve for synthetic fuels projects. Permits such obligations only after the proposed strategy has been approved by joint resolution. Amends the United States Synthetic Fuels Corporation Act of 1980 to provide that the Administrative Procedure Act, the Freedom of Information Act, the Government in the Sunshine Act, and Federal law relating to disclosure of confidential information shall apply to the Corporation as if it were a Federal agency. Requires the Board of Directors of the Corporation to fix the compensation of Corporation officers and other employee categories in accordance with the Executive Schedule and the General Schedule. (Under current law, the Board must take the Executive and General Schedules into consideration in fixing such compensation.) Requires the Board of Directors, the Secretary of Energy, and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to agree on a Memorandum of Understanding establishing a program for monitoring and accumulating data with respect to the technical performance, environmental and socioeconomic impacts, and economic viability of projects funded by the Corporation. Provides that contracts for financial assistance shall require the financial assistance recipient to develop a plan ensuring full cooperation with such program. Changes the date on which the Corporation shall terminate from September 30, 1997, to June 30, 1987. Provides that the liquidation of the Corporation and the winding up of its affairs shall be transferred to the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Energy, and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency jointly in accordance with a Memorandum of Understanding agreed to by them if the Board of Directors of the Corporation has not completed the termination of the Corporation's affairs and its liquidation by the termination date. (Under current law, such duties are to be transferred to the Secretary of the Treasury only.)
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1984
Prohibits a Federal agency from procuring by contract any services performed by Federal employees in the competitive service positions of guards, elevator operators, messengers, and custodians if such procurement would: (1) cause the separation of a preference eligible from any such position; or (2) preclude the performance of any such service by a qualified preference eligible. Allows such procurement when: (1) qualified preference eligibles are not available; or (2) the position is held by an employee other than a preference eligible on the date that the contract is entered into.
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 1984
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to reduce the excise tax on gasoline, diesel fuel, and special motor fuels containing alcohol from four cents to one cent per gallon through 1987. Increases such tax to: (1) two cents in 1988; (2) three cents in 1989; and (3) four cents between 1990 and 1993. Increases the excise tax on leaded gasoline from nine cents to 11 cents per gallon. Revises the rules relating to the refund of floor stock excise taxes on gasoline and gasohol. Provides for a temporary increase through 1989 in the amount of the income tax credit allowed for alcohol used as a fuel. Provides for a temporary increase through 1989 in the customs duty on alcohol imported for use as a fuel.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1984
Veterans' Compensation Amendments for Fiscal Year 1985 - Title I: Disability Compensation and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation - Part A: Rate Increases - Increases the rates of: (1) veterans' disability compensation; (2) additional compensation for dependents; (3) the clothing allowance for certain disabled veterans; and (4) dependency and indemnity compensation. Part B: Compensation Program Amendments - Includes lupus erythematosus systemic among the chronic diseases considered to be service-connected for purposes of veterans' benefits if it manifests itself to a degree of ten percent or more within one year of separation from service. Decreases from 50 to 30 percent the percentage of disability required to make a peacetime service-connected disabled veteran eligible to receive additional compensation for dependents. Title II: Other Veterans' Program Improvements - Directs the Administrator of Veterans Affairs to establish the Advisory Committee on Veterans Exposed to Ionizing Radiation to advise the Administrator on benefits provided, compensation needs of veterans, dependents, and survivors, and disabilities or disorders stemming from a veteran's exposure to ionizing radiation during active military service. Requires the Committee to report to the Administrator by July 1, 1985, and biannually thereafter on activities of the Veterans Administration and recommendations for changes pertaining to veterans exposed to such radiation. Directs the Administrator to submit such report to Congress. Requires a permanently and totally disabled from a non-service-connected disability veteran under age 50 who applies for and receives a military pension to undergo a vocational evaluation. Allows any veteran who the Administrator of Veterans Affairs determines can achieve a vocational goal to undertake such training. Limits such training to 48 months. Suspends pension payment to any veteran failing to participate as required by the Administrator. Continues the drugs and medicine entitlement of housebound or regularly attended veterans who participate in vocational training without regard to income limitations. Increases the maximum amount of insurance available under the Servicemen's Group Life Insurance program. Increases the amount of automobile and adaptive equipment assistance the Administrator of Veterans Affairs may provide to an eligible person.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1984
Veterans' Health Care and Facilities Improvement Act of 1984 - Revises the requirements concerning the special policemen who protect Veterans Administration (VA) property. Increases the maximum fines for violations of regulations governing such property. Directs the Administrator of Veterans Affairs to appoint a chief inspector to supervise VA police officers. Sets forth requirements concerning police uniform design and cost reimbursement. Directs the Administrator to report to the Veterans' Affairs Committees within 90 days on the implementation of these provisions and the number and salary of officers proposed to be assigned to such facilities. Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans Affairs to furnish medical treatment to veterans of the Vietnam era who served in Southeast Asia and suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. Limits treatment of such disorder to specified VA medical facilities. Directs the Administrator to compile and publish research results concerning the causes and treatment of such disorder. Terminates such assistance after FY 1988. Modifies the due date of the Comptroller General's report on the compliance of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget with certain statutory requirements relating to funded personnel ceilings for the VA's Department of Medicine and Surgery. Directs the Administrator to make an annual rather than a triennial report to Congress on the adequacy of per diem rates for payments made to States providing domiciliary, nursing home, and hospital care to veterans. Makes the first report due June 30, 1985 (currently, due June 30, 1986). Extends from FY 1984 to FY 1985 the authority of the Administrator to contract for hospital care or medical services in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands without reference to patient loads or incidence of provision of medical services for veterans treated by the Veterans Administration in the contiguous 48 States. Expands the amount of authorizations available for the research and education activities of Veterans Administration geriatric centers. Authorizes the Administrator to provide States with funds for the acquisition as well as the construction of State home facilities for veterans. Entitles veterans receiving service-connected disability compensation who are housebound or in need of regular aid to VA furnished drugs and medicines.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1984
Increases the adapted housing benefit ceiling for veterans with specified permanent and total service-connected disabilities. Increases the maximum home loan guaranty available to eligible veterans generally and for the purchase of a manufactured home. Amends the national cemeteries and memorials provisions of Federal law to require that each grave marker in a national cemetery be upright.
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1984
Professional Development Resource Center Act of 1984 - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1989 for grants for professional development resource centers for teachers. Directs the Secretary of Education, in making grants under this Act, to ensure that eligible applicants within each State receive sufficient funds to plan, establish, or operate at least one such center within the State in each fiscal year. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to local educational agencies (LEAs) or consortia of LEAs for assistance in planning, establishing, and operating such centers. Defines "professional development resource center" as any year-round site operated by an LEA, a combination of LEAs, or an educational service agency which serves teachers from public and non-public schools of a State or from an area or community within a State. Requires that, through such centers and with the assistance of consultants and experts, teachers shall conduct activities to advance the goal of professional excellence and improvement of teaching skills for the teachers they serve. Provides that such activities may include but are not limited to: (1) developing and disseminating curricula designed to meet the educational needs of the persons in the community, area, or State being served, including the use of educational research findings or new or improved methods, practices, and techniques in the development of such curricula (including the use of technology and telecommunications); (2) training teachers to better meet the educational needs of students and to become familiar with developments in curriculum, testing, and research and its applicability to improvement of teaching skills; and (3) disseminating information to those served by the center and to other such centers nationally. Requires that such centers be planned and operated under the supervision of a professional development policy board, the majority of which shall be representatives or designees of the elementary and secondary classroom teachers to be served by such center. Requires that such board also include representatives or designees of the school boards of the LEAs served by such center, and at least one representative designated by institutions of higher education located in the area, including but not limited to institutions that have departments, schools, or colleges of education. Requires that LEA, or LEA consortium, applications for such grants be approved by the State education agency (SEA) before they are transmitted to the Secretary for approval. Provides for LEA petitions to the Secretary to request further SEA consideration of applications. Sets forth criteria which such applications must meet in order for such a grant to be approved. Gives preference to applications which involve teachers as instructors as well as learners in center activities. Directs the Secretary, in approving applications, to: (1) take into account the resources which the applicant will provide in addition to Federal funds provided under this or any other Federal program; and (2) substantially involve teachers in reviewing and recommending programs for funding. Permits any LEA having an application approved under this Act to contract with an institution of higher education to carry out activities under, or provide technical assistance in connection with, such application. Authorizes the Secretary to expend directly ten percent of the funds expended under this Act to make grants to institutions of higher education to operate professional development resource centers.
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1984
Arms Race Moratorium Act - Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should immediately communicate to the Soviet Union the willingness of the United States to enter into a mutual United States - Soviet Union moratorium on the flight testing and deployment of new ballistic missiles and anti-satellite weapons and the testing of nuclear warheads. Prohibits spending or obligating any U.S. funds for the flight testing or deployment of new ballistic missiles, the flight testing against objects in space or the deployment of anti-satellite weapons, or the testing of nuclear warheads if, within 90 days of enactment of this Act, the President has not made such a communication with the Soviet Union and, within such period, the Soviet Union communicates to the President that at the end of the 90 days the Soviet Union will observe a mutual United States - Soviet Union moratorium on such testing and deployment. Authorizes U.S. funding for such testing and deployment if, after the beginning of the moratorium, the President certifies to Congress that the Soviet Union has conducted a test or deployed a missile or anti-satellite weapon or tested a nuclear warhead inconsistent with the moratorium. Requires the President, as part of such certification, to submit to Congress an unclassified report summarizing the basis for the certification and a classified report describing in detail the basis for the certification. Directs the President to report annually to the Congress: (1) on the progress in negotiating nuclear arms control agreements with the Soviet Union; (2) on whether the President believes that continuation of the moratorium is in the best national security interests of the United States. Authorizes Congress, if the President states that continuation of the moratorium is not in the best national security interests of the United States, to enact a joint resolution which terminates the moratorium and permits funds, to be used for testing and deployment.
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1984
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the President should continue to oppose: (1) the imposition of restrictions on European Community (EC) imports of nongrain feed ingredients and corn gluten and should support the current duty-free binding on such products; and (2) EC proposals which violate the duty-free binding on soybeans and soybean products under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade and reaffirm the United States position that the imposition of a consumption tax by EC on vegetable fats and oils would represent a restraint of trade. States that if EC action is taken to inhibit the importation of such products, then the United States should restrict EC imports by the same proportion of reduced U.S. export products.
United States · United States Congress · 12 April 1984
Civil Rights Act of 1984 - Amends the Education Amendments of 1972, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 and the Civil Rights Act to prohibit discrimination by any recipient of Federal financial assistance. (Currently, discrimination is prohibited only in a program or activity receiving Federal assistance.) Defines the term "recipient" to extend comprehensive coverage for purposes of the four Acts to any State or local governmental unit, any public or private agency or entity, and any subunit, successor, assignee, or transfereee of any such unit, agency, or entity.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1984
Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans Affairs to provide States with funds for the acquisition as well as the construction of State home facilities for veterans.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1984
Title I: 15 Percent Increase in Rates - Increases veterans' educational assistance, including assistance for survivors and dependents, by 15 percent. Revises the formula for the reimbursement of administrative expenses to State and local agencies who monitor educational institutions attended by GI bill veterans to increase such allowance. Increases the subsistence allowance rate under the vocational rehabilitation program. Title II: Veterans' Employment in Civil Service - Extends veterans' readjustment appointments in the Federal Government up to and including the GS-11 level (currently fixed at GS-7). Grants a Vietnam veteran so appointed and terminated within the year to the same right of appeal to the Merit Systems Protection Board as is held by a career or career-conditional employee during the first year of employment. Extends such appointments through FY 1987 (currently through FY 1984). Requires the Office of Personnel Management's annual report to Congress on veterans' readjustment appointments to breakdown by agency the number and grade of appointments, the number converted to career or career-conditional appointments, and the number and categories of causes of termination. Requires such report to breakdown such information for all veterans, with a separate breakdown veterans of the Vietnam era who are disabled.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1984
Telecommunications Employees' Protection Act of 1984 - Extends the agreement providing for the reciprocal recognition of employees' service credit by entities subject to the modified judgment of the U.S. District Court of the District of Columbia in the case of the United States v. Western Electric, et alia, to cover certain employees who change employment between such entities on or after January 1, 1985.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1984
Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 ("the Act") to revise title I provisions. Retitles title I (currently "Continuing Postsecondary Education Program and Planning") as "Targeted Educational Outreach and Informational Programs." Retitles and replaces part A (currently "Commission on National Development in Postsecondary Education") with new provisions for "Postsecondary Education Innovation and Expansion Grants." Directs the Secretary of Education to carry out a program, in accordance with such title I part A, to assist eligible postsecondary institutions to establish programs to enhance the educational opportunities available to adult learners. Directs the Secretary, from specified sums, to award grants to institutions with applications meeting specified criteria for such assistance. Sets the maximum award that may be made under a single application under part A at $200,000 (to remain available for expenditure for not more than a three-year period). Makes institutions of higher education, as defined under general provisions of the Act, and combinations of such institutions eligible to apply for such assistance. Sets forth permissible uses of such grant funds. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1989 to carry out part A. Retitles and replaces part B (currently "Education Outreach Programs") with new provisions for "Postsecondary Outreach Grants." Directs the Secretary, in accordance with such title I part B, to carry out a program to assist postsecondary institutions to establish and carry out programs designed to encourage the establishment and growth of off-campus educational programs. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants to institutions with applications meeting specified criteria for assistance. Sets the maximum award that may be made under a single application under part B at $100,000 (to remain available for expenditure for not more than a three-year period). Makes institutions of higher education, as defined under general provisions of the Act, or combinations of such institutions, eligible for such assistance. Sets forth permissible uses of such grant funds. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1989 to carry out part B. Eliminates provisions for the National Advisory Council on Continuing Education. Sets forth new title I part C provisions for "Research Program Grants." Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to, and contracts with, institutions of higher education, public and private institutions and organizations, and States, or any combination thereof, to support the purposes of such part C by providing assistance to such educational institutions for specified educational research, development, information, and training activities relating to postsecondary education for adult learners. Sets forth application requirements for such grants and contracts. Sets the maximum award that may be made under a single application under part C at $200,000 (to remain available for expenditure for not more than a three-year period). Sets forth permissible uses of funds under part C. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1989 to carry out part C. Sets forth a new title I part D ("Defined Term") which defines the term "adult learner" for purposes of title I.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1984
Family Farm Protection Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an established farmer who sells farmland to an eligible beginning farmer an income tax credit equal to the difference between the market price of the farmland and the farm value price of the land. Limits the maximum amount of the tax credit to $300,000. Permits a carryback and carryforward for any portion of the tax credit not used in the taxable year. Imposes an additional tax on the beginning farmer who acquires farmland for which the tax credit was allowed where the farmland is either disposed of or ceases to be family farm property within ten years of the original sale. Specifies rules for determining when property ceases to be considered a family farm, and for calculating the amount of the additional tax. Provides that the total amount of tax deductions for farming operations allowed for an individual or corporate taxpayer cannot exceed an amount equal to the gross income earned from farming plus non-farm income up to a maximum of $15,000. Requires the $15,000 limit to be reduced (but not below zero) by the amount by which the adjusted non-farm income exceeds $15,000.
United States · United States Congress · 27 March 1984
Congressional Budget Act Amendments of 1984 - Title I: Congressional Budget Process - Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to revise the timetable with respect to the congressional budget process to eliminate the second concurrent resolution on the budget. Requires the Congress to complete action on an annual concurrent resolution on the budget on or before April 15 of each year. Requires such concurrent resolution to set forth appropriate levels for the fiscal year beginning on October 1 of such year and planning levels for each of the two ensuing fiscal years. Requires the standing committees of the House and Senate to report their views and estimates to the Budget Committee by February 25 of each year. Sets forth information to be included in the concurrent resolution for the achievement of goals for reducing unemployment. Requires the concurrent resolution on the budget to be adopted before legislation providing new budget authority, new spending authority, new credit authority or changes in revenues or the public debt limit is considered by Congress. Permits Congress to revise an adopted concurrent resolution on the budget before the end of a fiscal year. Requires House committee action on all appropriation bills to be completed by June 10 of each year. Sets forth certain information to be contained in a statement accompanying the report of any bill providing new budget authority, new spending authority, new credit authority, or providing an increase or decrease in revenues or tax expenditures for a fiscal year. Requires entitlement authority and credit authority for each fiscal year to be included in the Congressional Budget Office Director's five-year projection report. Revises the provisions of reconciliation directives which direct committees of the House and Senate to recommend changes in existing law to produce specified levels of spending, credit, revenues, or tax expenditures. Establishes a new point of order against legislation which would cause a committee to breach its allocation for discretionary action. Title II: Amendments to Title IV of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 - Sets forth controls on provisions of legislation providing other new spending authority and new credit authority. Requires the analysis of a bill by the Congressional Budget Office to include a description of each method for establishing a Federal financial commitment contained in such bill. Requires a study by the General Accounting Office of forms of Federal financial commitment that are not reviewed annually by Congress. Includes all Federal off-budget activities within the budget and considers them as budget authority, outlays, and spending authority. Treats all receipts and disbursements of the Federal Financing Bank with respect to any obligations issued, sold, or guaranteed by a Federal agency as a means of financing such agency. Requires a Member User Group to be established for the purpose of reviewing budgetary scorekeeping rules and practices of the House. Title III: Additional Provisions to Improve Budget Procedures - Defines the term "allocation for discretionary action" for the purposes of the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974. Requires the Director of the Congressional Budget Office to conduct continuing studies to enhance comparisons of budget outlays, credit authority, and tax expenditures and to submit an annual inventory of tax expenditures. Repeals the provisions of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 which required a study of off-budget Federal agencies or agency activities. Requires congressional committees to be notified promptly of all changes in functional categories. Declares that the House Committee on Rules shall have the function of reviewing and studying the congressional budget process. Provides for the early election of committees of the House. Sets forth limitations on the use of suspension of the rules in the House. Title IV: Amendments to Subtitle II of the Title 31, United States Code - Requires the President to submit his budget to Congress on the first Monday after January 3 of each year. Title V: Technical and Conforming Amendments - Makes technical and conforming amendments to the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 and the Rules of the House of Representatives. Title VI: Effective Date - Sets forth the effective dates for the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1984
Amends the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the Poultry Products Inspection Act to exempt from Federal inspection requirements any restaurant central kitchen that prepares ready-to-eat meat and poultry products sent to and served at restaurants owned or operated by the same persons or firms which own or operate such central facility.
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1984
Academic Libraries and Information Technology Enhancement Act - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to revise title II of such Act. Retitles title II (College and Research Library Assistance and Library Training and Research) as "Academic Library and Information Technology Enhancement." Replaces title II part D provisions for design of the National Periodical System (funding for the design of such System under such Act will expire at the end of FY 1985) with new part D provisions for College Library Technology and Cooperation Grants. Extends through FY 1989 the authorization of appropriations for the following programs under title II: (1) part A (College Library Resources); (2) part B (Library Training, Research, and Development); and (3) part C (Strengthening Research Library Resources). Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1989 for the new part D programs (College Library Technology and Cooperation Grants). Revises part A provisions for college library resource development grants to provide that such grants shall be made only to eligible institutions of higher education or combinations thereof (or branches of such an institution which are located in other communities). Deletes provisions for making such grants to other public and private nonprofit library institutions which perform certain functions. Removes the $10,000 maximum limit on such a grant. Adds to application requirements for such grants satisfactory assurances that the institution's library: (1) is participating in one or more agreements with other institutions for the sharing of library resources; and (2) will maintain or develop access for students to academically oriented data bases. Permits the latter assurance about maintenance or development of data base access to be waived in very unusual circumstances. Requires that an institution, in order to be eligible for such a grant, must: (1) be dependent, because of its limited financial resources, on the grant for improving the quality of its programs or maintaining accreditation; and (2) provide the Secretary with specified assurances relating to its need for the grant. Directs the Secretary of Education, in making awards of such grants, to take into consideration the relative need of the institution and its library based on specified criteria. Requires that the amount of the grant award reflect both such relative need and the number of students who will benefit. Directs the National Commission on Libraries and Information Sciences to: (1) study the effectiveness of specified criteria for such grants in directing funds to libraries with the greatest need; and (2) report the results of such study to Congress by the end of FY 1988. Revises part B provisions for library training, research, and development to provide that, of appropriations for part B: (1) two-thirds shall be available for library career training programs, including fellowships and traineeships; and (2) one-third for research and demonstration projects. Deletes provisions including improvement of information technology among such research and demonstration projects. Repeals provisions for special purpose grants under part B, but includes similar provisions under the new part D. Sets forth the new part D provisions for College Library Technology and Cooperation Grants. Establishes a program under which the Secretary of Education is authorized to make grants for technological equipment and other special purposes. Provides that such part D grants may be made to specified entities (similar in part to those under part B special purpose grant provisions): (1) institutions of higher education which demonstrate a need for special assistance to acquire, install, maintain, or replace technological equipment (including computer hardware and software) necessary to participate in networks for sharing of library resources; (2) combinations of higher education institutions which demonstrate a need for special assistance in establishing and strengthening joint-use library facilities, resources, or equipment; (3) other public and private nonprofit organizations which provide library and information services to institutions of higher education on a formal cooperative basis to establish, develop, or expand programs or projects that improve their services to institutions of higher education; and (4) institutions of higher education conducting research or demonstration projects to meet special national or regional needs in utilizing technology to enhance library or information sciences. Directs the Secretary, from funds appropriated for the new part D provisions, to make competitive awards to institutions or combinations of institutions in each of such four categories. Sets the minimum award at $15,000. Permits such award to be expended over a three-year period. Requires that an application for such a grant: (1) be approved by the Secretary on the basis of criteria prescribed in regulations; and (2) provide satisfactory assurance that the applicant will match grant funds with expenditures equal to at least one-third of the grant amount, for the same purpose as such grant during the three-year period for which the grant is sought. Revises title II program purposes (under the new title II heading Academic Library and Information Technology Enhancement) to replace references to assistance in establishment of a National Periodical System Corporation with references to new part D assistance to college and university libraries in acquiring technological equipment and conducting research in information technology.
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1984
Public Employee Pension Plan Reporting and Accountability Act of 1984 - Imposes disclosure and reporting requirements upon State and local government pension plans. Establishes fiduciary standards for trustees of public employee pension benefit plans. Provides remedies and access to Federal courts. Specifies employee benefit plans which are exempt from this Act. Title I: Reporting and Disclosure - Requires the administrator of each public employee pension benefit plan to submit a registration statement to the appropriate State Governor within one year of enactment of this Act. Exempts a plan from the reporting and disclosure requirements of this Act if a State Governor certifies to the Secretary of Labor that: (1) State requirements are substantially equivalent to those of this Act; (2) the State can adequately administer its requirements; and (3) the State can adequately collect the requisite reports. Requires the Secretary of Labor to terminate any certification if a State is not meeting Federal requirements. Requires the plan administrator to: (1) publish a summary plan description; and (2) furnish such description to plan participants, beneficiaries, and specified persons. Delineates the contents of such summary plan description. Requires such description to: (1) state the rights of participants and beneficiaries; and (2) include an update whenever material modifications are made to the plan. Requires the plan administrator to publish an annual report. Specifies the contents of such report. Directs such administrator to engage an independent qualified public accountant to ascertain whether the financial statements and schedules in the annual report present fairly and in all material respects the information contained in the annual report. Requires the accountant's opinion to be included in the annual report. Requires the annual report to include a financial statement containing specified information, including the most recent annual statement of assets and liabilities of a common or a collective trust held by a bank or similar institution. Requires each plan to maintain a schedule of: (1) all assets held for investment purposes during each plan year; and (2) each transaction involving a party in interest. Requires annual reports to include, with respect to a defined benefit plan, a complete actuarial statement applicable to the appropriate plan year. Directs the plan administrator to engage an enrolled actuary to prepare such statement. Delineates the contents of the actuarial statement. Requires the annual report to include a statement from an insurance organization if any plan benefits are purchased from or guaranteed by such organization. Details the contents of such statement. Requires the enrolled actuary of the plan to make an actuarial valuation at least once every three plan years. Directs the plan administrator to furnish, upon written request of certain persons, a copy of summary plan descriptions and the status of an individual's plan benefits and contributions. Provides guidelines under which the plan administrator is directed to file the annual report with either the Secretary of Labor (the Secretary) or the appropriate State Governor. Authorizes the Secretary or Governor to reject the information filed by the plan administrator, and to take the following actions: (1) retain an independent public accountant to perform an audit; (2) retain an enrolled actuary to prepare an actuarial report; or (3) bring a civil action to enforce this Act. Presents guidelines for notice and review where claims for benefits are denied. Title II: Requirements Relating to Fiduciary Functions - Requires every plan to be established and maintained by written instructions which designate at least one named fiduciary. Details the functions of named fiduciaries and trustees. Establishes fiduciary and trustee liability. Prohibits certain transactions. Authorizes the Secretary to grant specified exemptions regarding such transactions. Imposes personal liability upon fiduciaries who fail to meet the fiduciary requirements, including removal for specified violations. Prohibits persons who have been convicted of, or imprisoned for, certain offenses from holding specified positions. Requires plan fiduciaries to be bonded. Specifies exceptions. Sets forth guidelines for the bonding procedure. Sets a limitation on actions which may be brought regarding failure to meet fiduciary requirements. Title III: Administration and Enforcement - Authorizes civil actions to redress violations of this Act. Imposes personal liability upon: (1) a plan administrator who fails to comply with a request for information; or (2) any person who fails to file required forms. Authorizes a plan to sue or be sued. Grants the United States district courts exclusive jurisdiction of civil actions brought under this Act. Grants concurrent jurisdiction to State courts and Federal district courts for specified actions. Authorizes the Federal district court to award reasonable attorney's fees under certain circumstances. Provides that suits brought against the Secretary may be brought in Federal district court. Authorizes the Secretary or appropriate State official to assess and collect a civil penalty against a party in interest who has engaged in a prohibited transaction. Grants such Secretary and State official investigative powers to determine violations of this Act. Details the extent of such powers. Authorizes the Secretary to prescribe regulations to administer this Act. Directs such Secretary to cooperate with State and local governments regarding the exchange of data and information. Prohibits interference with the exercise of rights by a plan participant or beneficiary. Establishes an Advisory Council on Governmental Plans, comprised of eleven members appointed by the President. Requires Council members to be qualified to appraise the plans falling under this Act. Requires the Council to: (1) report to the President and each House of Congress regarding implementation of this Act with possible recommendations for legislation; (2) advise the Secretary and make recommendations; and (3) monitor the costs incurred by plans under this Act and recommend cost reduction measures. Directs the Secretary to furnish staff services to the Council. States that this Act supersedes any State laws regarding public employee pension benefits plans. Specifies exceptions. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1984
Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to require the Secretary of Agriculture to make available advance deficiency payments for the 1984 and 1985 crops of wheat, feed grains, cotton, and rice to certain producers in disaster areas.
United States · United States Congress · 12 March 1984
States that: (1) all persons in the workplace have a fundamental right to know when they are handling or are exposed to substances hazardous to their health; (2) the Hazard Communication Standard should immediately be revised by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in order to disseminate meaningful information to workers regarding the identity and composition of hazardous substances to which workers are exposed or which they handle; (3) the Hazard Communication Standard should be immediately revised by OSHA to extend "Right To Know" protection to workers in all industries and services not presently covered by the Standard; and (4) such Standard should set minimum Federal requirements which may be exceeded by more stringent State requirements. Commends those States and local governments which have acted to safeguard workers' health and which have passed community "Right To Know" laws.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1984
Permits States to exercise regulatory jurisdiction over intrastate railroad abandonment and discontinuance. Conditions such permission on the existence of specified circumstances.
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1984
Directs the Secretary of Transportation to provide grants to LIFE International to pay up to 75 percent of the costs of retrofitting and operating specified vessels transferred to the organization. Authorizes appropriations to the Maritime Administration for FY 1985 through 1987 for such grants.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1984
Amends the Education Amendments of 1972 to include educational institutions receiving Federal financial assistance within the prohibition against sex discrimination.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1984
Directs the President to: (1) secure from the Indochina nations a full accounting of Americans captured or missing as a result of the Vietnam conflict; and (2) work for the release of captive Americans and the return of the remains of those American servicemen and civilians who died in Southeast Asia. Requires the President to submit two reports to Congress on American POW/MIAs in Southeast Asia.
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1984
Amends the Bankruptcy Code to permit a trustee to reject or assume a collective bargaining agreement made under the authority of title II of the Railway Labor Act or the National Labor Relations Act only if and after the court approves such rejection or assumption. Requires notice to all parties and a hearing before the court may approve such a rejection. Prohibits the court from approving the rejection of a collective bargaining agreement if, absent the rejection: (1) the jobs covered by such agreement will be lost; and (2) any financial reorganization of the debtor will fail. Declares that a rejection of a collective bargaining agreement constitutes a breach at the time of such rejection. Declares that no provision of this Act shall be construed to permit the trustee unilaterally to terminate or alter any of the terms and conditions of such a collective bargaining agreement.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1984
Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans Affairs to furnish medical treatment to veterans of the Vietnam era who served in Southeast Asia and suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. Limits treatment of such disorder to no more than 15 Veterans Administration medical facilities. Directs the Administrator to compile and publish research results concerning the causes and treatment of such disorder. Terminates such assistance after FY 1988.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1984
National Individual Training Account Act of 1984 - Title I: Individual Training Accounts - Establishes the national individual training account program to be administered by the Secretary of Labor and the Secretary of the Treasury in cooperation with the States. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to enter into agreements whereby States or State unemployment compensation agencies shall: (1) issue and redeem vouchers to pay training and relocation expenses; (2) accept contributions from employees and employers for deposit into individual training accounts and distribute any amount in any such account at such times as any distribution from such account is authorized; (3) provide individual counseling or job and training referral services to any participant in the program;and (4) cooperate with officers of the Federal Government or of any other State in carrying out this Act. Directs the Secretary of Labor, upon the request of a State, to provide information and to detail, on a reimbursable basis, personnel to assist such State in establishing a State individual training account program. Sets forth the duties of the Secretary of Labor and the Secretary of the Treasury in administering the program established by this Act. Sets forth provisions for distributions from individual training accounts. Sets forth provisions for eligible training programs and for certification of such programs by the Secretary of Labor. Sets forth provisions for qualified relocation expenses and for approval of such expenses by the Secretary of Labor. Provides that individual training and related accounts are to be established as separate book accounts in the Unemployment Trust Fund. Title II: Amendments to the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 Relating to Individual Training Accounts - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise provisions for approval of State unemployment compensation laws to require that a State have a State individual training account program which has been approved by the Secretary of Labor. Applies such requirement to certifications of such State laws for 1985 and subsequent years. Revises Federal unemployment tax provisions to add requirements relating to State individual training account programs. Revises provisions relating to itemized Federal income tax deductions for individuals and corporations to allow such deductions for employee or employer contributions to individual training accounts made after December 31, 1983. Prohibits any reduction (through an additional credit allowance) in Federal unemployment tax in the case of any large employer which refuses to participate in the national individual training account program. Defines "large employer" as one which during the calendar year employed an average of not less than 25 employees. Makes such denial of reduction applicable to calendar years beginning after December 31, 1985. Appropriates to the Secretary of Labor, for the expense of administering the Federal-State employment service, for each fiscal year ending after January 1, 1986, an amount determined by the Secretary of the Treasury to be equivalent to an unspecified portion of the amounts received in the general fund in the Treasury which are attributable to the operation of such denial of reduction in the unemployment tax rate of such large employers who refuse to participate in the national individual training account program.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1984
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) the insured loan component of the economic emergency loan program is of critical importance to farmers and ranchers; (2) the limitation and effective termination of such insured loans violated the intent of Congress; and (3) the Farmers Home Administration should immediately begin the obligation of insured economic emergency loan funds (of at least $500,000,000) and should continue such program until the funds are exhausted or until September 30, 1984.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1984
National Nutrition Monitoring and Related Research Act of 1984 - Title I: Nutrition Monitoring and Related Research - Establishes: (1) a ten-year National Nutrition Monitoring and Related Research Program; and (2) a Directorate, with the Secretaries of Defense, Agriculture, and Health and Human Services as joint chairpersons, to implement such program. Sets forth the Directorate's functions, including: (1) establishing National Science Foundation-administered matching grants for specified nutrition and dietary purposes; and (2) submitting an annual report to the President and the Congress. Requires the Directorate to prepare a National Nutrition Monitoring and Related Research Plan which shall: (1) assess and report on U.S. nutritional and dietary trends; (2) sponsor or conduct research; (3) develop and maintain dietary and nutritional data resources; (4) coordinate Federal activities and assist similar State and local activities, including scientific and technical assistance; (5) maintain and coordinate present and future nutrition and dietary surveys, including the development of uniform survey standards; and (6) encourage private sector and academic program participation. Requires a 60-day public comment period before such plan is submitted in final form to the President and the Congress. Provides for scientific research and development in support of such program and plan. Authorizes specified appropriations. Title II: National Nutrition Monitoring Advisory Council - Establishes a 15-member Advisory Council to: (1) evaluate such program and plan; (2) provide scientific and technical advice; and (3) submit an annual report to the Directorate.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 1984
Fair Insurance Coverage Act - Prohibits any insurer from discriminating in an insurance contract against any person because of blindness. Includes within the prohibition refusing to make or negotiate a contract for insurance or giving different treatment with respect to terms, conditions, rates, or benefits because of blindness. Establishes a preference for State actions prior to judicial enforcement under this Act. Authorizes any aggrieved person, in the absence of State actions or jurisdiction, to bring an action under this Act for individual relief. Authorizes the Attorney General of the United States to bring an action for injunctive relief whenever there is reasonable cause to believe a person is engaged in a pattern or practice of discrimination or when an individual is aggrieved and an issue of general public importance is raised. Grants the Federal district courts jurisdiction of such actions regardless of the amount in controversy. Allows a court to order monetary, equitable, or other appropriate relief, including punitive damages.
United States · United States Congress · 18 November 1983
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to set forth source of income rules for the tax treatment of shipping income. Provides that: (1) all shipping income attributable to transportation between two ports located in the United States shall be treated as derived from sources within the United States; and (2) 50 percent of all U.S. connected shipping income shall be treated as derived from sources within the United States. Defines "United States shipping income" and "shipping income" for purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 November 1983
Native American Programs Act Amendments of 1983 - Amends the Native Americans Programs Act of 1974 to state that decisions to grant financial assistance shall not consider whether such aid accrues to the benefit of Indians who are not members of a federally recognized tribe. Prohibits the rejection of financial assistance solely on the grounds that the request serves Indians or an Indian organization in a nonreservation area. Requires that programs under this Act be administered within the Department of Health and Human Services (currently they may be delegated to other Federal departments and agencies). Prohibits any transfer of such administration outside of the Department. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to continue the administration of grants through the Administration for Native Americans (the Administration). Requires the Commission of such Administration to delegate all functions within the Administration. Restricts the delegation and redelegation of functions by the Secretary to personnel within the Department. Permits interagency funding agreements between the Administration and other Federal agencies. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1987. Specifies the percentage of appropriated funds which shall be used for financial assistance under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 November 1983
Human Needs and World Security Act - Requires that for FY 1985: (1) not less than $102,000,000 shall be provided to the United Nations Children's Fund with the Fund's excess FY 1984 funds to be devoted to the provision of low-cost preventive health measures associated with the "child health revolution" developed by United Nations agencies; (2) not less than $90,000,000 shall be provided for the International Fund for Agricultural Development; and (3) not less than $175,000,000 shall be provided for health care activities with excess FY 1984 funds to be devoted to preventive health care activities directly benefitting the poor majority. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 for the Peace Corps. Requires that $700,000,000 shall be available to carry out famine relief under the Agriculture Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954 for FY 1985. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 for the Inter-American Development Bank for assistance under the Bank's program for financing small projects. Limits for FY 1985 the aggregate amount of foreign military sales credits, foreign military sales guarantees, military assistance, and international military education and training. Limits the amount of assistance provided during FY 1985 through the Economic Support Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 16 November 1983
Congressional Campaign Finance Reform Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a nonrefundable income tax credit for contributions to candidates for the office of U.S. Representative. Limits the amount of such credit to $100 for any one qualified candidate, and $200 for all qualified candidates. Requires that such contributions be verified in accordance with regulations promulgated by the Secretary of the Treasury. Prohibits a candidate from misrepresenting his eligibility for office or the eligibility of a potential contributor for the tax credit. Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress on the use of such political tax credits not later than June 30 following each Federal election. Adds a new title to the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971: "Title V: Financing of General Election Campaigns for the House of Representatives." Sets forth requirements for the qualification of candidates for the U.S. House of Representatives to receive contributions eligible for the tax credit provided by this Act. Requires a candidate to certify to the Federal Election Commission that neither he nor his authorized committee will accept any contribution or make any campaign expenditure in excess of prescribed limits. Requires further that the candidate maintain a separate accounting of contributions which qualify for the income tax credit for political contributions provided by this Act and that the candidate provide any appropriate information to the Commission for purposes of auditing or examining campaign contributions. Requires the candidate to certify the receipt of a certain amount of threshold contributions. Limits to $20,000 the amount of personal funds (from the candidate or his immediate family) that a candidate may spend in an election. Waives spending limits for eligible candidates whose opponents have exceeded applicable expenditure limits or who have otherwise failed to meet the requirements of this Act. Requires independent expenditures in excess of $5,000 to be reported to the Commission and each candidate within specified time frames. Qualifies a candidate against whom more than $5,000 in independent expenditures have been made for premium postal rates. Requires the Commission to verify upon request the eligibility of a candidate under this Act to the Secretary. Requires the Commission to conduct an examination and audit of the campaign accounts of ten percent of the qualified candidates under this Act to determine compliance with the expenditure limitations and other requirements of this Act. Empowers the Commission to bring a civil suit in U.S. district court to enforce any requirement of this Act or recover any amounts resulting from an audit of campaign expenditures. Permits private citizens to file complaints with the Commission and initiate court actions. Authorizes appropriations. Includes within the definition of "contribution" for purposes of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 certain extensions of credit for advertising and broadcasting in excess of $1,000 for a period of more than 60 days. Limits to $90,000 (adjusted for inflation) in any calendar year the amount of contributions which candidates for U.S. Representative may accept from non-party multicandidate political committees. Specifies exceptions for candidates in general and special elections. Limits to $240,000 the expenditure amounts for such candidates. Permits candidates for the office of U.S. Representative to make expenditures independently of the campaign committee of his party in specified circumstances. Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to provide candidates for the office of U.S. Representative with equal time in broadcast media to respond to the remarks of an opposing candidate.
United States · United States Congress · 16 November 1983
Requires the President to submit to Congress, and the Congress to adopt, for FY 1985 and each year thereafter, a "pay as you go" budget which freezes all revenues and outlays at current levels. Requires any future legislative reductions in revenues to be offset by equivalent reductions in outlays and any spending above the outlay baseline to be offset by equivalent increases in revenues or reductions in outlays so that no spending increase results in an increase in the deficit.
United States · United States Congress · 12 November 1983
Amends the Agriculture and Food Act of 1981 to apply land diversion program payment limitations to the value of commodity payments as well as cash for wheat, feed grains, upland cotton, and rice.
United States · United States Congress · 3 November 1983
Designates the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Altoona, Pennsylvania, as the James E. Van Zandt Veterans Administration Medical Center. Designates the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Dublin, Georgia, as the Carl Vinson Veterans Administration Medical Center.
United States · United States Congress · 25 October 1983
Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary of the Interior for FY 1985 through 1989 to assist States in carrying on the work of a competent and qualified mining and mineral resources research institute at one public college or university (or private college or university if a State does not have an eligible public college or university) in the State meeting eligibility requirements. Provides that such funds when appropriated shall be made available for grants to be matched on a basis of no less than one and one-half non-Federal dollars for each Federal dollar during FY 1985 and 1986 and no less than two non-Federal dollars for each Federal dollar during FY 1987 through 1989. Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary for FY 1985 through 1989 which shall be made available to institutes to meet the necessary expenses of: (1) specific mineral research and demonstration projects of broad application which could not otherwise be undertaken; and (2) research into any aspects of mining and mineral resources problems related to the mission of the Department of the Interior which are not otherwise being studied. Sets forth funding criteria. Requires each institute to: (1) set forth its plan to provide for the training of individuals as mineral engineers and scientists; (2) set forth policies and procedures to assure that Federal funds made available under this Act will supplement and, to the extent practicable, increase the level of funds that would, in the absence of such Federal funds, be made available for purposes of this Act, and in no case supplant such funds; and (3) report annually to the Secretary concerning amounts received under this Act and projects undertaken pursuant to this Act. Directs the Secretary to: (1) prescribe necessary rules and regulations; and (2) report to Congress annually concerning the receipts, expenditures, and work of the institutes in all States under the provisions of this Act. Prohibits anything in this Act from being construed to authorize Federal control of education at any college or university. Directs the Secretary to assure that programs authorized by this Act are not redundant with respect to established mining and minerals research programs. Authorizes appropriations necessary to print and publish the results of activities carried out by institutes under this Act and for administrative planning and direction. Directs the Secretary to establish a center for cataloging current and projected scientific research in all fields of mining and mineral resources. Directs the President to clarify agency responsibility for Federal mining and mineral resources research and provide interagency coordination of such research. Directs the Secretary to appoint a Committee on Mining and Mineral Resources Research to consult with and make recommendations to the Secretary on all matters relating to mining and mineral resources research as required by this Act. Requires the Committee to: (1) develop a national plan for research and development in mining and mineral resources and to formulate and recommend a program to implement the plan utilizing resources provided for under this Act; and (2) submit such plan to the Secretary, the President, and Congress by March 1, 1986, and update the plan annually. Requires the Committee to determine the eligibility of a college or university to participate as a mining and mineral resources research institute under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 October 1983
Requires the Attorney General of the United States, the Federal Trade Commission, and all other appropriate Federal agencies and officials to enforce the antitrust laws, including the prohibition against vertical price restraints. Directs such officials and agencies to cease propounding arguments in court designed to weaken such prohibition, and to submit to Congress proposed legislation to make any desired changes in such prohibition.
United States · United States Congress · 18 October 1983
Amends Federal law regarding Presidential elections to set 11 p.m. (EST) as the closing time for polling places for the election of Presidential electors. Amends the Federal criminal code to impose a $1,000 fine and/or one-year imprisonment upon specified individuals with official Presidential election responsibilities who disclose Presidential election results before the legal closing time for polling places.
![Official portrait of Rep. Penny, Timothy J. [D-MN-1]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/p000215_200.jpg)