United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1995
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: National Park System Plan Title II: New Area Establishment Title III: Concessions Reform Title IV: Recreation Fees Common Sense National Park System Reform Act - Title I: National Park System Plan - Requires the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Director of the National Park Service, to prepare and submit to the House Committee on Resources and the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources a National Park System Plan to guide the direction of the System into the next century. Provides that the Plan shall be deemed approved unless the Congress enacts a joint resolution disapproving it within 90 days. Allows the Secretary to resubmit the Plan by the date specified in the resolution if it is rejected by the Congress. Directs the Secretary to submit a report to the Congress, within one year after the Plan has been deemed approved, identifying which National Park System units do not conform with the Plan. (Sec. 102) Requires the Secretary to report on the procedures that have been instituted to report to the U.S. Attorney or other appropriate law enforcement officials any intimidation, threats, or acts of violence against Service employees related to their duties. Title II: New Area Establishment - Removes certain reporting requirements concerning additional areas for the National Park System. Directs the Secretary to submit to the Committee an annual list of areas recommended for study for potential inclusion in the System. Bars the initiation of any study of the potential of an area for inclusion in the System after this Act's enactment, except by specific authorization by an Act of the Congress. Requires studies to be completed within three complete fiscal years of the enactment date of legislation providing for a study. Specifies factors to be considered in such studies, including whether direct National Park Service management or alternative protection by other agencies or the private sector is appropriate. Requires such studies to be completed in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish a single office to prepare all new area studies and to implement other functions of this Act; and (2) submit with the annual budget submission a list of areas which have been studied previously which contain cultural or historical resources and areas which contain primarily natural resources in numerical order of priority for addition to the System. Requires the Secretary to only include areas on the lists for which the supporting data is current and accurate. Title III: Concessions Reform - National Park Service Concession Policy Reform Act of 1995 - Repeals the Concessions Policy Act of 1965. (Sec. 305) Directs the Secretary to authorize, under specified conditions, private persons, corporations, or other entities to provide and operate such facilities and services as the Secretary deems necessary and appropriate in the National Park System. (Sec. 306) Authorizes the Secretary, upon request and under specified criteria, to allow such entities to provide services to park visitors other than by award of a concession contract or permit. Requires the provision of such services to have minimal impact on park resources and values and to be consistent with park purposes. Provides a two-year term limit for the provision of such services. (Sec. 307) Requires a concession contract to be awarded to the person submitting the best proposal through a competitive selection process to be established by the Secretary. Allows waiver of such procedures and award of a temporary contract to avoid interruption of services. Requires the Secretary to publish a notice of availability for a prospectus soliciting proposals for contracts for concessions at a Park specifying minimum contract requirements and contract terms and conditions. Requires congressional notification of any proposed contract with anticipated gross receipts exceeding $5 million or of a duration of ten or more years. Prohibits the Secretary from granting a preferential right to a concessioner to: (1) renew concession contracts under this Act, with exceptions; or (2) provide new or additional services at a park. Allows such preferential rights to be granted for certain outfitting and guide contracts and certain contracts with annual gross receipts of under $500,000. (Sec. 308) Sets forth criteria for determining franchise fees, including fees for multiple franchise contracts within a park. (Sec. 309) Requires all fees to be: (1) covered into a special Treasury account established for reallocation to System units for resource management and protection, maintenance activities, interpretation, and research; or (2) deposited into a Park Improvement Fund established by the concessioner (as directed by the Secretary) from which expenditures shall be made for park activities and projects. Requires: (1) an annual statement from the concessioner to the Secretary reflecting total activity in the Fund for the preceding fiscal year; and (2) an annual report from the Secretary to specified congressional committees concerning Fund expenditures. (Sec. 310) Establishes a maximum: (1) ten-year duration for a concessions contract, provided that the Secretary may award a contract for up to 20 years if determined necessary; and (2) two-year duration for a temporary contract. (Sec. 311) Requires the approval of the Secretary and congressional notification before a concession contract can be transferred, assigned, sold, or conveyed and sets forth conditions that preclude such conveyance. (Sec. 312) Grants possessory interest to: (1) concessioners who have commenced acquisition or construction of any structure on Federal land within a park before the enactment of this Act; and (2) concessioners who construct or acquire an improvement on U.S. land within a Park after enactment of this Act. (Sec. 313) Places limitations on a concessioner's rates and charges to the public. (Sec. 314) Directs the Secretary to: (1) periodically evaluate the performance of each concessioner under contract; (2) terminate a contract if a concessioner fails, within the prescribed time, to meet minimum requirements identified in a notice of unsatisfactory performance; and (3) notify specified congressional committees of each unsatisfactory rating and each contract terminated. (Sec. 315) Provides that the Comptroller General shall, until the expiration of five calendar years after the close of the business year for each concessioner, have access to and the right to examine any pertinent books, documents, papers, and records of the concessioner related to the contracts. (Sec. 316) Exempts contracts awarded by the Secretary under this Act from certain provisions of Federal law with respect to the leasing of U.S. buildings and properties. (Sec. 318) Requires the Inspector General of the Department of the Interior to submit biannual reports to specified congressional committees on the implementation of this Act and its effect on facilities operated pursuant to concession contracts and on visitor services. (Sec. 319) Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: Recreation Fees - National Park Service Entrepreneurial Management Reform Act of 1995 - Amends the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 to increase fees for admission to units of the National Park System and other specified areas. Makes receipts from admission available, subject to appropriation, for authorized resource protection, rehabilitation, and conservation projects. Requires the Secretary to establish a pilot project at Yosemite National Park that utilizes incentives, including waiving or reducing admission fees, to encourage use of public transit which serves the purpose of reducing vehicular traffic within such park. Revises provisions regarding the issuance of lifetime admission permits, including a limitation that such a permit entitles only the permittee and the accompanying spouse to free admission. Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress respecting areas where the Secretary determines that admission fees would be appropriate but where such fees are prohibited by law, and areas where such fees are authorized but not being collected. Increases the penalty for violations of rules and regulations regarding admission and special recreation use fees. Modifies provisions regarding the use of fees collected. Requires that specified receipts be covered into a special National Park Renewal Fund. Makes such funds available for resource protection, research, interpretation, and maintenance activities related to resource protection and visitor enjoyment in areas managed by the National Park Service. Repeals a requirement that qualified public or private entities selling annual admission permits reimburse the United States for the full amount to be received from the sale of such permits when or before the agency delivers the permits to such entity for sale. Directs the Secretary to establish reasonable fees for nonrecreational uses of System units that require special arrangements. Prohibits charging an admission or recreation use fee for entrance into, or use of, any federally owned area operated and maintained by a Federal agency which is used for outdoor recreation purposes, except as provided for by such Act. (Sec. 403) Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) negotiate and enter into agreements with State or local governments, individuals, or other entities for the purpose of sharing costs or services in carrying out authorized functions and responsibilities of the Secretary with respect to System units; and (2) provide, subject to appropriation, the Federal funding share from any funds available to the National Park Service in carrying out such agreements. (Sec. 404) Requires any funds payable to the United States as restitution for damages to national park resources or property to be paid to the Secretary and made available for improvement, protection, or rehabilitation of damaged resources or property.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1995
Family Business Protection Act of 1995 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from the gross estate, for estate tax purposes, specified portions of the adjusted value of the qualified family-owned business interests of the decedent.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1995
Downed Animal Protection Act - Amends the Packers and Stockyard Act, 1921 to make it unlawful for any stockyard owner, market agency, or dealer to buy, sell, give, receive, transfer, market, hold, or drag any nonambulatory livestock unless such livestock has been humanely euthanized. Imposes civil and criminal penalties for violations.
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1995
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Department of Labor Title II: Department of Health and Human Services Title III: Department of Education Title IV: Related Agencies Title V: General Provisions Title VI: Political Advocacy Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 - Title I: Department of Labor - Department of Labor Appropriations Act, 1996 - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for agencies within the Department of Labor. (Sec. 102) Amends the Job Training Partnership Act to repeal the prohibition on using appropriated funds to carry out any contract with a nongovernmental entity to administer or manage a Civilian Conservation Center of the Jobs Corps. Title II: Department of Health and Human Services - Department of Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 1996 - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for agencies within the Department of Health and Human Services. Provides limitations on the use of appropriated funds. (Sec. 207) Requires a transfer of funds for the security protection of the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Title III: Department of Education - Department of Education Appropriations Act, 1996 - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for agencies and programs within the Department of Education. Sets forth general provisions relating to the use of appropriated funds. (Sec. 301) Prohibits appropriated funds from being used to transport teachers or students in order to: (1) overcome racial imbalance in any school or school system; or (2) carry out a racial desegregation plan. (Sec. 303) Prohibits the use of funds to prevent the implementation of programs of voluntary prayer and meditation in the public schools. (Sec. 308) Prohibits appropriated funds from being used to enforce provisions of the Education Amendments of 1972 concerning gender equity in intercollegiate athletic programs, unless updated policy guidance has been issued to institutions of higher education. Title IV: Related Agencies - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for the following agencies or programs: (1) Armed Forces Retirement Home; (2) Corporation for National and Community Service; (3) Corporation for Public Broadcasting; (4) Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service; (5) Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission; (6) National Commission on Libraries and Information Science; (7) National Council on Disability; (8) National Labor Relations Board; (9) National Mediation Board; (10) Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission; (11) Physician Payment Review Commission; (12) Prospective Payment Assessment Commission; (13) Social Security Administration; (14) Railroad Retirement Board; and (15) United States Institute of Peace. Title V: General Provisions - Sets forth provisions on the use of the appropriated funds. (Sec. 505) Prohibits the use of funds to carry out any program of distributing sterile needles for the hypodermic injection of any illegal drug unless the Surgeon General determines that such programs are effective in preventing the spread of HIV and do not encourage the use of illegal drugs. (Sec. 506) Expresses the sense of the Congress that, to the greatest extent practicable, all equipment and funds purchased under this Act should be American-made. (Sec. 507) Imposes a disclosure requirement on grantees receiving Federal funds. (Sec. 508) Prohibits the use of funds to perform abortions except to save the life of the mother or where the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest. (Sec. 509) Permits States to not perform abortions, except where the life of the mother would be endangered if the fetus were carried to term. (Sec. 511) Prohibits appropriated funds being used to: (1) create a human embryo for research; or (2) research in which a human embryo is destroyed or knowingly subjected to a risk greater than that allowed under specified regulations and law. (Sec. 512) Prohibits appropriated funds being used by any Federal program or to assist any State when such Federal program or State discriminates against any health care entity that refuses to undergo training in the performance of abortions. (Sec. 513) Expresses the sense of the Congress concerning the appropriate length of a hospital stay following a birth. Title VI: Political Advocacy - Sets forth: (1) limitations on the use of appropriated funds for political advocacy; (2) enforcement provisions with respect to such limitations; and (3) disclosure requirements concerning such advocacy by grantees.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1995
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the provisions contained in United Nations Resolution 687 (regarding the inventory and destruction of Iraq's weapons and missiles) and related resolutions which restrict the import of commodities from, and the export of commodities to, the Government of Iraq should remain in full force and effect until such time as the Security Council has determined that such Government has complied with all relevant United Nations resolutions and completed all actions contemplated by the terms of those resolutions.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1995
George Washington Commemorative Coin Act of 1995 - Requires the Secretary of Treasury to mint and issue five-dollar gold coins emblematic of George Washington. Mandates that the design for the coins be: (1) selected by the Secretary after consultation with the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and the Commission of Fine Arts; and (2) reviewed by the Citizens Commemorative Coin Advisory Committee. Provides for the distribution of coin sale surcharges to the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1995
Farm Freedom Act of 1995 - Extends and reduces target prices for wheat, feed grains (corn, oats, grain sorghums, barley), rice, and cotton. Eliminates deficiency payments and marketing loans for such crops beginning with crop year 2001. Eliminates acreage reduction programs and 0-85 and 50-85 programs beginning with crop year 1999. Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to: (1) impose specified income limitations on price support program participation; and (2) reduce producer deficiency and acreage diversion payments. Sets forth Commodity Credit Corporation deficiency payment budgetary limitations. Expresses the sense of the Congress against the use of U.S. agricultural commodities in trade embargoes, except for cases of state-supported terrorism. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to report on the feasibility of agricultural producer private revenue insurance.
United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1995
Independent Contractor Tax Simplification Act of 1995 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that, for purposes of determining the employment status of individuals as employees, a service provider shall not be treated as an employee, a service recipient shall not be treated as an employer, and a payor shall not be treated as an employer if: (1) a service provider has a significant investment in assets and training, incurs significant unreimbursed expenses, agrees to perform the service for a specified amount of time or to complete a specific result and is responsible for damages for early termination without cause, receives payment primarily on a commission basis, or has purchased resale products; (2) the service provider has a principal place of business, does not primarily provide service in the service recipient's place of business, or pays a fair market rent for use of the recipient's place of business or does not have to perform service only for the service recipient and, in the current year or in the proceeding or subsequent years, has performed or has offered to perform a significant amount of service for other persons; and (3) the services by an individual are performed according to a written contract between the service recipient or payor which provides that the individual will not be treated as an employee.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1995
Parental Rights and Responsibilities Act of 1995 - Prohibits any Federal, State, or local government or any official of such a government from interfering with or usurping the right of a parent to govern the upbringing of a child of the parent. Disallows any exception to this Act unless the government or official is able to demonstrate, by appropriate evidence, that such interference or usurpation is valid to accomplish a compelling government interest, in which case only the least amount of interference may be used.
United States · United States Congress · 15 June 1995
Natural Disaster Protection Partnership Act of 1995 - Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (the Act) to: (1) require a State to pay or agree to pay at least five dollars per resident, as determined by the latest official census, before such State or local government receives Federal assistance for the repair, restoration, reconstruction, or replacement of public facilities damaged or destroyed by a major disaster in the State; and (2) revise the formula used to determine the Federal share of such assistance as well as the Federal share for debris and wreckage removal from publicly and privately owned lands resulting from such disaster. Allows an increase of such assistance only upon the enactment of a joint resolution not designated as an emergency under provisions of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act). (Sec. 5) Adds provisions concerning disaster mitigation. Requires the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to establish and carry out natural disaster hazard mitigation (mitigation) programs that support natural disaster research, technology, and education. Gives the effect of law to a specified executive order relating to earthquake design and construction standards for federally leased, assisted, or regulated buildings. Requires the Director to enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of Sciences to study and report to the Congress on the feasibility of establishing: (1) national minimum building construction standards for residential and commercial building construction; and (2) standards for the training and licensing of home inspectors and for using such inspections as a means of promoting mitigation for residential property. Requires the Director to define which States should be classified as natural disaster-prone for purposes of the Act. Requires each natural disaster-prone State to either: (1) adopt multihazard building and safety codes for all new and substantially modified building construction in that State; or (2) certify that the State's local communities have adopted and are enforcing building codes which meet the appropriate minimum mitigation requirements of that State. Requires each State designated as flood-prone to either adopt relevant flood protection standards or certify that its flood-prone local communities are in compliance with appropriate State flood protection standards. Requires each natural disaster-prone State to either develop a multihazard mitigation plan or designate an existing plan which includes specified compliance and response requirements. Outlines provisions concerning State compliance with the establishment, adoption, and implementation of appropriate mitigation plans. Provides penalties for noncompliance. Requires the Director, after crediting premiums from the Natural Disaster Insurance Corporation (established under this Act), to allocate funds from a Mitigation Account (established under this Act) to States which comply with all mitigation requirements under this Act. Provides an allocation formula. Requires such funds to be used to support mitigation activities, especially those necessary to bring a State into compliance with building and safety code requirements enumerated under this Act. Requires audits of fund uses. Exempts a State, under specified conditions, from a particular mitigation requirement if it receives inadequate funds from the Account to cover the costs of complying with such requirement. Encourages each private insurer that participates in the Natural Disaster Insurance Corporation to take mitigation measures into account in setting rates and deductibles for its property insurance. Establishes the Natural Disaster Insurance Corporation as a not-for-profit membership corporation to provide primary insurance coverages and reinsurance coverage for hurricanes, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis. Requires the Corporation's Board of Directors (Board) to: (1) develop a plan of operation describing the Corporation's administration and the provision of the insurance coverages it provides; and (2) develop and adjust, when necessary, actuarially sound rates for such coverages. Establishes an independent Natural Disaster Insurance Board of Actuaries (Independent Board) to review and approve such plan and rates. Requires the Board to file with each State insurance regulator information copies of the initial material and future revisions to its insurance rates, terms, or conditions. Requires the Corporation to establish and maintain a: (1) primary insurance coverage trust account to pay qualifying claims and loss adjustments expenses to private insurers acting as service providers of the primary insurance coverages; and (2) reinsurance coverage trust account to pay qualifying claims to private insurers which purchased such coverage. Outlines provisions concerning the Corporation's use of funds from other accounts and funds to pay for losses in excess of trust account funds or funds raised by issuing obligations in the private market (requiring repayment of funds borrowed from such accounts or funds). Requires the trust accounts to be kept separate. Prohibits: (1) the borrowing of monies between such accounts; and (2) the authorization or appropriation of Federal funds for Corporation activities. Requires the Comptroller General to audit and report to the Congress on Corporation and Independent Board activities. Requires the Corporation to: (1) issue primary insurance coverages that insure against physical damages and losses to residential property, including debris removal, additional living expenses incurred as a result of direct damage to such property, and ordinance and law coverages, resulting from the natural disasters enumerated in this Act that meet specified terms and conditions; and (2) make, under certain conditions, excess reinsurance coverage available to private insurers and State insurance pools for residential losses (including quota-share amounts retained by the private insurers under this Act not already insured by the Corporation under the primary insurance coverage policies) and commercial losses that are proximately caused by specified natural disaster perils. Prohibits making or renewing any federally-related mortgage loan secured by residential property located in an earthquake, volcanic eruption, tsunami, or hurricane-prone State unless the property is covered by: (1) primary insurance coverages; or (2) coverage issued by a private insurer which has equivalent terms, conditions, and rates as such coverages for seismic perils and that meets such terms and conditions as those required for the hurricane peril. Provides an escrow requirement with respect to insurance premiums for such coverage. Outlines requirements that must be met by residential property owners in natural disaster-prone States before the owners can receive any financial assistance under the Act or any similar Federal disaster assistance. Requires the Director and the Corporation to jointly report to the Congress on any additional sanctions or other measures deemed necessary to assure that policyholders purchase Federal flood insurance pursuant to the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968. Requires private insurers which exclude coverage for physical damage caused by flooding to include in the contract a specified warning statement to that effect (or an appropriate alternative warning statement). Establishes in the Treasury the Natural Disaster Protection Fund. Establishes within the Fund a separate Private Loss Account, Public Loss Account, and Mitigation Account. Requires the three accounts to be kept separate and prohibits the borrowing of monies between them. Requires the Private Loss Account to provide direct Federal loans to cover shortfalls in the Corporation's primary insurance and reinsurance accounts. Requires the Public Loss Account to: (1) retain reserve funds sufficient to cover the anticipated costs resulting from natural disasters up to the annual ten-year historical average of disaster relief provided by the Director; and (2) provide grants to States for the repair or restoration of critical facilities and lifelines, public facilities, and infrastructure damaged or destroyed by natural disasters and for pre-natural disaster mitigation. Allows the Federal share of such grants to be increased only upon the enactment of a joint resolution not designated as an emergency under provisions of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. Requires: (1) the Mitigation Account to provide funds to States for appropriate mitigation efforts described in this Act; and (2) the Corporation to pay a specified percentage of the annual net premiums collected for the primary insurance coverages and the reinsurance coverages for mitigation purposes. Provides for appropriate transfers and credits to the Public Loss Account and the Mitigation Account. Authorizes appropriations to such Accounts.
United States · United States Congress · 15 June 1995
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Young Driver Programs Title II: High Risk Drivers High Risk Drivers Act of 1995 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to develop and implement effective and comprehensive policies and programs to promote safe driving behavior by younger drivers, older drivers, and repeat violators of traffic safety regulations and laws, including specified safety promotion and driver training research activities. Title I: Young Driver Programs - Directs the Secretary to make basic and supplemental grants to those States that adopt and implement programs for young drivers which include measures to reduce traffic safety problems resulting from young drivers. Sets forth requirements regarding: (1) eligibility for basic grants (including the establishment and maintenance of a graduate licensing program for drivers under age 18 by State grant recipients and State compliance with specified criteria concerning drunk driving and other issues); (2) eligibility for supplemental grants (including provision for readily distinguishable licenses for younger drivers, driver education, recordkeeping of serious convictions, and oversight of alcohol sales to underage drinkers); (3) program evaluation; and (4) reporting requirements. Authorizes appropriations. Title II: High Risk Drivers - Directs the Secretary to: (1) study whether additional or strengthened Federal activities, authority, or regulatory actions are desirable or necessary to improve the driver record and control systems of the States to identify high risk drivers more rapidly and ensure prompt intervention in the licensing of such drivers; (2) evaluate the future of the national information systems that support driver licensing; and (3) encourage and promote State driver evaluation, assistance, or control programs for high risk drivers.
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 1995
Establishes the Yellowstone Headwaters National Recreation Area within the Gallatin and Custer National Forests in Montana. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to: (1) administer the Area in accordance with this Act and with the provisions of law generally applicable to national forest system units; (2) develop a management plan for the Area to reflect its establishment and to conform to this Act; and (3) acquire lands or interests in lands within the Area's boundaries that are necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act. Withdraws such lands from U.S. mining laws, mineral and geothermal leasing laws, and from disposal of mineral materials under the Materials Act of 1947. Prohibits: (1) a patent from being issued after June 14, 1995, for any location or claim made in the Area under U.S. mining laws; (2) Federal lands from being used in connection with any mining or mining-related activity within the Area; and (3) such activities involving any surface disturbance of lands or waters within such Area, except in accordance with requirements imposed by the Secretary. Requires: (1) the Secretary to complete an expedited program to examine all unpatented mining claims within the Area; and (2) if the Secretary of the Interior determines that a claim is invalid, to declare it to be null and void. Prohibits a Federal department or agency from issuing authorizations to persons for mining or mining-related activities within the Area until the Secretary has determined that previous mining related environmental damage that has occurred on lands owned or used by such person or any person who controls, is controlled by, or under common control with, such person has been remediated in accordance with applicable Federal and State requirements. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1995
James Madison Commemorative Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to issue commemorative one-dollar silver coins emblematic of the 250th anniversary of the birth of James Madison and the life and achievements of the fourth President of the United States. Requires the Secretary to turn over proceeds from surcharges to the National Trust for Historic Preservation to be used to: (1) establish an endowment as a permanent source for Montpelier (home of James Madison and a museum); and (2) fund capital restoration projects at Montpelier.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1995
Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 and the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 to terminate sugarcane and sugar beet price support, marketing quota, and acreage allotment programs. Makes related amendments to the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act and the Food Security Act of 1985.
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 1995
Nuclear Decommissioning Costs Simplification Act of 1995 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code, with respect to the deduction for payments made to a Nuclear Decommissioning Reserve Fund, to: (1) eliminate the requirement that the Secretary of the Treasury determine certain amounts necessary to fund the taxpayer's portion of nuclear power plant decommissioning costs; and (2) provide rules for the treatment of amounts either deducted in excess of the allowable amount for the taxable year or that reflect a contribution shortfall.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1995
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Cancellation and Suspension Title II: Minor Use Crop Protection Act of 1995 Title III: Data Collection Activities to Assure the Health of Infants and Children and Other Measures Title IV: Amendments to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act Food Quality Protection Act of 1995 - Title I: Cancellation and Suspension - Amends provisions of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) relating to cancellations, changes in classifications, or other terms of registration with respect to the authority of the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. Requires that a rulemaking under such provisions be based on a validated test or other significant evidence raising prudent concerns of unreasonable adverse effects to man or to the environment. Denies registration applications that are not in compliance with this Act. Title II: Minor Use Crop Protection Act of 1995 - Minor Use Crop Protection Act of 1995 - Amends FIFRA to define "minor use" as the use of a pesticide on an animal or commercial agricultural crop or site or for public health protection where: (1) the total U.S. acreage for the crop is less than 300,000 acres; or (2) the Administrator determines that the use does not provide sufficient economic incentive to support the initial or continuing registration of a pesticide for such use and there are insufficient alternatives available for the use, the alternatives pose greater environmental or health risks, or the pesticide plays or will play a significant part in managing pest resistance or in an integrated pest management program. Extends the period of exclusive data use for data submitted to support original registration applications for pesticides for an additional year for each three minor uses registered after this Act's enactment and before the expiration of the period of exclusive use, up to a total of three additional years for all minor uses registered by the Administrator if the Administrator determines that: (1) there are insufficient alternatives available for the use or the alternatives pose greater environmental or health risks; or (2) the pesticide plays or will play a significant part in managing pest resistance or in an integrated pest management program. Requires the Administrator, upon the request of a registrant, to extend the deadline for the production of residue chemistry data required solely to support a minor use subject to specified conditions. Applies the same extension conditions to data for reregistrations. Authorizes the Administrator to modify or revoke such extensions if the use may cause unreasonable adverse environmental effects. Permits the Administrator, in handling the registration of a pesticide for a minor use, to waive applicable data requirements if the absence of data will not prevent the Administrator from determining the risk presented by the pesticide and that the risk would not have an adverse environmental effect. Provides for expedited review (within one year of submission) of applications to support minor use pesticide registrations. Sets forth conditions for extensions of registrations for unsupported minor uses. Provides a procedure for meeting data requirements where a registrant has voluntarily cancelled a registration and another application is pending for registration of a pesticide that is for a minor use and is identical or substantially similar to, or for an identical or substantially similar use as, the cancelled pesticide. Directs the Administrator to establish a minor use program. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a Department of Agriculture minor use program and a separate matching fund program. Requires the matching fund program to be utilized to ensure the continued availability of minor use crop protection chemicals. Authorizes appropriations. Title III: Data Collection Activities to Assure the Health of Infants and Children and Other Measures - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Administrator and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to coordinate the development and implementation of survey procedures to ensure collection of adequate data on food consumption patterns of infants and children. Requires residue surveillance activities of the Department of Agriculture to provide for the improved surveillance of pesticide residues, including increased sampling of foods most likely consumed by infants and children. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to: (1) collect pesticide use data of statewide or regional significance for all the major crops and crops of dietary significance; and (2) in cooperation with the Administrator, implement research, demonstration, and education programs to support adoption of integrated pest management. Requires Federal agencies to use and promote integrated pest management techniques. Title IV: Amendments to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA) to redefine "pesticide chemical," subject to exception, as any substance that is a pesticide, or any active ingredient thereof, within the meaning of FIFRA. Defines "pesticide chemical residue," subject to exception, as a residue in or on a raw agricultural commodity or processed food of a pesticide chemical or any other added substance present as a result of a pesticide chemical's metabolism or other degradation. Deems a processed food not to be adulterated, within the meaning of FDCA, if there are present pesticide chemical residues at tolerance levels not considered unsafe. (Current law treats only raw agricultural commodities in this manner.) Sets forth requirements relating to tolerances and exemptions from tolerances for pesticide chemical residues in food, including residues of degradation products, which allow the presence in processed food at the tolerance applicable to the raw agricultural commodity from which the processed food is made. Prohibits establishment of a tolerance that is more stringent than a level the Administrator determines is adequate to protect the public health (i.e., if the dietary risk posed by such level of residues is negligible). Allows a greater than negligible dietary risk if: (1) use protects from greater adverse health effects to humans or the environment; (2) use avoids greater risks from another pesticide; or (3) the unavailability of the pesticide would reduce the availability of an adequate, wholesome, and economical domestic supply of the food. Prohibits issuance of a final rule that revokes, modifies, or suspends a tolerance or exemption until the Administrator has taken any necessary action under FIFRA with respect to the registration of the pesticide involved. Requires the Administrator, where a pesticide is labeled for use on a particular food, to: (1) revoke any tolerance or exemption that allows the presence of a particular chemical or its residue in or on such food if the Administrator cancels the registration of each pesticide that contains the chemical or modifies it to prohibit the pesticide's use in connection with such food; and (2) suspend any such tolerance or exemption upon the suspension of the use of each pesticide that contains the chemical. Provides for: (1) tolerances for unavoidable residues in the case of a residue of a canceled or suspended pesticide chemical that will unavoidably persist in the environment and be present in or on a food; and (2) residues resulting from an application which was lawful at the time of application but with respect to which the tolerance or exemption has since been revoked, suspended, or modified. Prohibits, subject to exception, a State from enforcing any limit on a qualifying pesticide chemical residue (as defined in this Act) in or on any food which is not identical to Federal requirements. Prohibits a State, absent an unreasonable dietary risk, from enforcing a limit on the level of residues in any food if the sale of such food containing such residue level was lawful at the time of application of the pesticide. Authorizes appropriations for increased monitoring of pesticide residues in imported and domestic food.
United States · United States Congress · 9 May 1995
Jerusalem Embassy Relocation Implementation Act of 1995 - Declares it is U.S. policy that: (1) Jerusalem should be recognized as the capital of the State of Israel; and (2) construction of the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem should begin no later than December 31, 1996, and officially open no later than May 31, 1999. States that not more than 50 percent of the funds appropriated for FY 1997 and 1999 to the Department of State for "Acquisition and Maintenance of Buildings Abroad" may be obligated in the respective fiscal year until the Secretary of State determines, and reports to the Congress, that (for FY 1997) such construction has begun and that (for FY 1999) the Embassy has opened. Limits the availability of specified amounts of such funds in certain fiscal years until they are expended for: (1) costs associated with relocating the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem; and (2) the costs for its construction. Requires the Secretary of State to report to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate on: (1) the Department of State's plan to implement this Act; and (2) progress made toward opening the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem.
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1995
Family Viewing Cable Television Act of 1995 - Amends the Federal criminal code to impose a fine and up to two years' imprisonment on any person who knowingly disseminates any indecent material on any channel provided to all subscribers as part of a basic cable television package.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1995
Propane Education and Research Act of 1995 - Authorizes the qualified industry organizations (the National Propane Gas Association, the Gas Processors Association, or successor organizations, or a group of retail marketers or producers who collectively represent at least 25 percent of the volume of propane sold or produced in the United States) to conduct, at their own expense, a referendum among producers and retail marketers for the creation of a Propane Education and Research Council. Directs the Council, if established, to develop programs (including programs to enhance consumer and employee safety and training) and enter into contracts for: (1) propane research and development; (2) consumer education; and (3) payment for program costs with funds collected under this Act. Requires the Council to reimburse the Secretary of Energy annually for any costs incurred by the United States, but not to exceed the average annual salary of Department of Energy employees. Prescribes guidelines under which the Council shall set annual assessments on odorized propane to cover program costs. Directs the Council to establish a program to coordinate its operations with any State propane education and research council. Prohibits Council funds from being used for lobbying activities. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to annually prepare and make available to the Council, the Secretary of Energy (Secretary), and the public, an analysis of changes in propane prices relative to other energy resources. Requires the Council to restrict its activities to research and development, training, and safety whenever in any year the five-year average rolling price index of consumer grade propane exceeds by more than 10.1 percent the five-year rolling average price composite index of residential electricity, residential natural gas, and refiner price to end users of Number 2 fuel oil. Requires the price of propane to be determined by market forces in all cases. Prohibits the Council from taking action to pass the cost of the annual assessments to consumers. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to report biennially to the Congress and the Secretary on: (1) whether operation of the Council, in conjunction with the cumulative effects of market changes and Federal programs, has had an effect on propane consumers, including residential, agriculture, process, and nonfuel users; and (2) whether there have been long-term and short-term effects on propane prices as a result of Council activities and Federal programs.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1995
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Designation of Wilderness Title II: Administrative Provisions America's Red Rock Wilderness Act of 1995 - Title I: Designation of Wilderness - Designates specified lands in the following areas of Utah as components of the National Wilderness Preservation System: (1) Great Basin wilderness areas; (2) Zion and Mojave Desert wilderness areas; (3) the Grand Staircase Wilderness and the Kaiparowits Plateau Wilderness; (4) Escalante Canyon wilderness areas; (5) the Henry Mountains Wilderness; (6) the Dirty Devil River Wilderness; (7) Cedar Mesa wilderness areas; (8) Canyonlands wilderness areas; (9) San Rafael Swell wilderness areas; and (10) Book Cliffs and Uinta Basin wilderness areas. Title II: Administrative Provisions - Reserves the Federal Government's rights to a quantity of water sufficient for each wilderness area designated by this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1995
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Reforms to Improve the Accuracy of the Federal Credit Reform Act with Respect to Budget Scoring the Cost of the Federal Direct Student Loan Program Title II: Phase-Out of the Federal Direct Student Loan Program Title III: Improvements to the Federal Family Education Loan Program Student Loan Privatization Act of 1995 - Title I: Reforms to Improve the Accuracy of the Federal Credit Reform Act with Respect to Budget Scoring the Cost of the Federal Direct Student Loan Program - Amends the Congressional Budget Act to revise its Federal Credit Reform Act provisions relating to budget accuracy of accounting for Federal costs associated with the Federal Direct Student Loan Program. Title II: Phase-Out of the Federal Direct Student Loan Program - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to direct the Secretary of Education to phase-out the Federal Direct Student Loan Program (FDSL) in a specified manner. Eliminates related requirements involving loan volume limits and administrative expenses for such program. Repeals HEA authority for such program as of the end of FY 1997. Title III: Improvements to the Federal Family Education Loan Program - Amends HEA to revise provisions under the Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFEL) relating to: (1) recovery of guaranty agency reserves; and (2) return to the Treasury of reserve funds returned or recovered by the Secretary. Terminates FDSL consolidation loan authority. Consolidates FDSL program loans under the FFEL program. Prohibits certain administrative funds from being expended to support public relations activities (by Department of Education employees or pursuant to contracts with the Department) or marketing of institutions to encourage participation in the FDSL program. Provides for sale of FDSL loan portfolios. Directs the Secretary to provide a copy of all reports and analyses prepared in connection with auctions, for purposes of such sales, to the Directors of the Congressional Budget Office and of the Office of Management and Budget. Requires all proceeds received as a result of such auctions to be returned to the Department of the Treasury after deduction of connected expenses incurred by the Department of Education.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1995
Torture Victims Relief Act of 1995 - States that the United States shall not involuntarily return a person to a country where such person would be subject to torture. Establishes an expedited procedure for processing refugee, asylum, withholding of deportation, and parole entry claims of torture victims. Expresses the sense of the Congress that sufficient funds should be allocated to the Immigration and Naturalization Service's Resource Information Center to maintain information on foreign torture. Provides for specialized training in torture identification and handling of torture victims for consular, immigration, and asylum personnel. Directs the Center for Disease Control to study and report on torture victims residing in the United States. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act and the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to provide for respective domestic and foreign treatment centers for torture victims. Authorizes appropriations. Authorizes appropriations from specified funds for the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture. Expresses the sense of the Congress in support of international means to protect torture victims and investigate human rights violations.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1995
Prohibits the shipment in interstate or foreign commerce of steel jaw leghold traps and of articles of fur derived from animals trapped in such traps. Prescribes criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to reward nongovernment informers for information leading to a conviction under this Act. Empowers enforcement officials to detain, search, and seize suspected merchandise or documents and to make arrests with and without warrants. Subjects seized merchandise to forfeiture.
United States · United States Congress · 4 April 1995
Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act Amendments of 1995 - Exempts a physician clinical office laboratory from Public Health Service Act certification requirements, except when such laboratory performs a Pap Smear (Papanicolaous Smear) analysis.
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1995
Calls upon the President to express strong U.S. opposition to Turkey's invasion of northern Iraq and urges the United States, at the United Nations Security Council, to condemn Turkey's illegal act of aggression and bring about an immediate and unconditional withdrawal. Denounces Turkey's consistent pattern of human rights violations against ethnic Kurds. Supports the maintenance of Operation Provide Comfort and the continuation of other non-governmental humanitarian assistance for the Kurds of northern Iraq. Urges the European Parliament to reject the ratification of the proposed customs union agreement between the Government of Turkey and the European Union unless the Turkish Government complies with international human rights standards.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1995
Condemns the use of excessive force and terrorism by Indian paramilitary forces against civilians in Kashmir and acts of violence by Kashmiri militants. Welcomes the release from detention of Kashmiri political leaders and urges the Government of India to take further steps to respond to human rights concerns. Reiterates the need for all parties to the conflict to enter into negotiations and resolve the conflict peacefully. Urges the Administration to work with the United Nations and the international community to facilitate a peaceful negotiation for a settlement of the Kashmir conflict.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1995
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should promptly indicate that the United States will welcome a private visit by Taiwanese President Lee Teng-hui to his alma mater, Cornell University, and will welcome a transit stop by President Lee in Anchorage, Alaska, to attend the USA-ROC Economic Council Conference.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1995
Waterways Restoration Act of 1995 - Amends the Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Act to delete the requirement that each watershed improvement under such Act must contain benefits directly related to agriculture that account for at least 20 percent of the total project benefits. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish and implement a Waterways Restoration Program which provides technical assistance and grants, on a competitive basis, to eligible entities for carrying out waterway restoration projects. Requires such projects to achieve ecological restoration or protection and one or more of the following objectives: (1) flood damage reduction; (2) erosion control; (3) stormwater management; or (4) water quality enhancement. Provides project descriptions and priorities, including the location of projects in low-income or economically depressed areas adversely affected by poor watershed management. Outlines other project requirements, including a cost-benefit analysis. Requires the Secretary to designate Program administrators for each participating State (including a State agency if approved by the Secretary). Requires program grants to be awarded on an annual basis. Provides project application and selection requirements, including the establishment in each participating State of an interdisciplinary team of specialists to assist in reviewing project applications under the Program. Outlines conditions for receiving assistance under the Program, with sponsor and cosponsor requirements. Requires a non-Federal share of 25 percent of project costs, with a waiver for economically depressed communities. Limits the administrative and technical assistance costs of the Program. Requires the Governor of each participating State to establish a citizens oversight committee to evaluate management of the Program in that State. Requires program administrators to issue annual reports summarizing the Program evaluations of the oversight committees. Requires the Secretary to give a priority to waterways restoration projects in making funding decisions under such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1995
Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the Kaliningrad-Konigsberg area should be made into a demilitarized zone and the Russian Federation should remove all its military forces from such area; (2) the administration of such area should be transferred from the Russian Federation to an international body; and (3) appropriate international and regional agencies should be requested to conduct and implement studies to restore the environmental integrity of the area.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1995
Calls for: (1) the United States to use its influence with the Turkish Government and as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council to suggest that the Turkish Government ensure the proper protection for the Patriarchate and all Orthodox faithful residing in Turkey, assure that positive steps are taken to reopen the Halki Patriarchal School of Theology, provide for the proper protection and safety of the Ecumenical Patriarch and the Patriarchate personnel, establish conditions that would prevent the recurrence of past terrorist activities and vandalism and other personal threats against the Patriarchate, establish conditions to ensure that the Patriarchate is free to carry out its religious mission, and do everything possible to find and punish the perpetrators of any provocative and terrorist acts against the Patriarchate; and (2) the Administration to report to the Congress the status and progress of such concerns on an annual basis.
United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1995
Honors the memory of the victims of the Armenian genocide. Calls for the United States to encourage the Republic of Turkey to acknowledge and commemorate the atrocity committed against the Armenian population of the Ottoman Empire from 1915 to 1923.
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1995
War Crimes Disclosure Act - Requires disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act of any matter that relates to any individual who is listed in a Watch List as a participant in Nazi war crimes. Provides disclosure exceptions, such as for the protection of intelligence agents and informants or for compelling national security reasons. Requires disclosure of information that can be reasonably separated from excepted information. Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to provide that the exemption from public disclosure authorized under such Act for operational files of the Central Intelligence Agency shall not apply to information regarding Nazi war crimes participants.
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1995
Turkish Human Rights Compliance Act - Requires the President, from the funds available for FY 1996 for assistance for Turkey under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and the Arms Export Control Act, to withhold, first from grant assistance and then from loan assistance, $500,000 for each day that Turkey does not meet the conditions of this Act. Authorizes a presidential waiver of this Act if it is in the national security interest. Considers conditions to be met when the President certifies to the Congress that the Turkish Government: (1) allows free monitoring of the human rights situation within its territory by human rights monitoring organizations; (2) recognizes the civil, cultural, and human rights of its Kurdish citizens, ceases military operations against Kurdish civilians, and takes steps toward a peaceful resolution of the Kurdish issue; (3) takes steps toward the total withdrawal of military forces from Cyprus and supports a settlement recognizing the sovereignty and independence of Cyprus, with a constitutional democracy; (4) removes its blockade of U.S. and international assistance to Armenia; and (5) removes official restrictions on Christian churches and schools and offers sufficient protection against acts of violence, harassment, and vandalism in connection with the clergy and such churches and schools.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1995
Declares that it is the sense of the House of Representatives that the Government should not establish any policy restricting medical professionals from providing women full and accurate medical information on their reproductive health options, including the provision of nondirective abortion counseling.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1995
Reaffirms that the status quo on Cyprus is unacceptable and welcomes the appointment of a Special Presidential Emissary for Cyprus. Insists that all parties to the dispute regarding Cyprus agree to seek a solution based upon the relevant United Nations (UN) resolutions and reaffirms that all foreign troops should be withdrawn from the Republic of Cyprus. Encourages the UN Security Council and the U.S. Government to consider alternative approaches to promote a resolution of the dispute regarding Cyprus based upon relevant Security Council resolutions.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1995
Captive Exotic Animal Protection Act of 1995 - Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit and set penalties for knowingly transferring, transporting, or possessing a confined exotic animal for purposes of allowing the killing or injuring of that animal for entertainment or the collection of a trophy.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1995
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to declare that unrelated trade or business does not include the activity of soliciting and receiving qualified sponsorship payments for purposes of the tax on unrelated business income of charitable and other tax-exempt organizations.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1995
Nullifies any executive order or other rule or order that prohibits Federal contracts with, requires the debarment of, or imposes other sanction on a contractor on the basis that such contractor or an organizational unit thereof has permanently replaced lawfully striking workers.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1995
Bosnia and Herzegovina Self-Defense Act of 1995 - Directs the President to terminate the U.S. arms embargo of the Government of Bosnia and Herzegovina on the date of receipt of a request from such government for assistance in exercising its right of self-defense under the United Nations Charter or on May 1, 1995, whichever comes first.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1995
Medical Procedures Innovation and Affordability Act - Prohibits the issuance of a patent for any invention or discovery of a technique, method, or process for performing a surgical or medical procedure, administering a surgical or medical therapy, or making a medical diagnosis. Provides that if a technique, method, or process is performed by or as a necessary component of a machine, manufacture, or composition of matter or improvement which is itself patentable subject matter, the patent on such machine, manufacture, or composition may claim the technique, method, or process.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1995
Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to establish maximum spending amounts for FY 1996 through 2002. Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to revise sequestration procedures for enforcement. Requires look-back sequestration in the last quarter of each fiscal year. Revises preview sequestration reports to include total spending (instead of deficit spending). Makes it out of order in the House of Representatives or the Senate to consider legislation that would result in total spending exceeding maximum permissible total spending, unless waived or suspended by a three-fifths vote of Members of each House.
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1995
Amends part B (Supplemental Medical Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to include within Medicare coverage the use of blood-testing strips for individuals with Type I or II diabetes. Requires such strips to be included within a payment methodology covering inexpensive and routinely purchased equipment.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1995
Comprehensive Iran Sanctions Act of 1995 - Imposes a trade embargo between the United States and Iran. Exempts transactions involving the furnishing, for humanitarian purposes, of food, clothing, medicine, or medical supplies. Sets forth penalties for violations of this Act. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to instruct the U.S. executive director of specified international financial institutions to oppose any extension of credit or financial assistance to Iran. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations should oppose the provision of U.N. assistance to such country. Sets forth requirements for the waiver of such embargo or denial of assistance. Requires the President to report to appropriate congressional committees on Iran's nuclear and other military capabilities and on its support for acts of international terrorism.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1995
Amends the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 to revise and rename it the Integrated Spent Nuclear Fuel Management Act of 1995. (Sec. 1) Instructs the Secretary of Energy (the Secretary) to accept spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste by not later than January 31, 1998. Entitles contract holders to specified remedies for the Secretary's failure to meet service contract obligations, or to accept spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste as mandated under this Act. States that the Nuclear Waste Fund shall fund the execution of service contract and implementation of the Secretary's responsibilities, including the acceptance of spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste at contract holder sites and transporting such fuel or waste to a private storage facility. Establishes an integrated spent nuclear fuel management system for spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste, including its storage, transportation, and disposal. Prescribes procedural guidelines for the use of: (1) railroads; (2) transportation planning and requirements; (3) multi-purpose canister systems; (4) interim storage facilities; (5) permanent disposal; (6) land withdrawal; and (7) private storage facilities. Prescribes consultation and assistance guidelines between the Secretary and the State of Nevada. Prescribes budget priorities for purposes of annual requests for appropriations from the Waste Fund. Prescribes a fee schedule for electricity and nuclear fuel used to generate electricity in a civilian nuclear power reactor. Sets forth advance contract prerequisites for utilization or production facility license renewals. Reestablishes the Nuclear Waste Fund and the Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish by rule the appropriate portion of the costs of managing high-level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel allocable to the interim storage or permanent disposal of high-level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel from atomic energy defense activities; and (2) advise the Congress annually of the amount of high-level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel from atomic energy defense activities requiring management in the integrated spent nuclear fuel management system. Subjects the Secretary to all Federal, State, and local environmental or land use laws and regulations, with specified exceptions. Grants the U.S. courts of appeals original and exclusive jurisdiction over civil actions under this Act. Provides that upon a contract holder's request, the Secretary shall take title to or possession of spent nuclear fuel or high-level radioactive waste without removing it from the contract holder's designated storage site if the Secretary cannot accept such items within the contract's acceptance schedule. Requires the NRC to promulgate regulatory guidelines for: (1) financial assurances for low-level radioactive waste site closures; and (2) training and qualification of civilian nuclear powerplant personnel. Reestablishes the Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Secretary to take action as necessary to improve the management of the civilian radioactive waste management program to ensure that it is operated to the maximum extent like a private business. States that the program is not subject to civil service regulations. Abolishes the Interim Storage Fund, the Monitored Retrievable Storage Commission, the Office of Subseabed Disposal Research, and the Office of Nuclear Waste Negotiator. Repeals all references to the Yucca Mountain site. Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress whether particular milestones have been reached with respect to: (1) multi-purpose canister systems; (2) land withdrawals; (3) interim storage facilities; and (4) acceptance of spent nuclear fuel from contract holders. Directs the Secretary to: (1) create a value engineering function within the Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management; and (2) employ on an on-going basis, integrated performance modeling regarding site characterization. (Sec. 2) Sets forth transition provisions for the continuation of: (1) contracts; (2) Nuclear Waste Fund; (3) Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management; and (4) Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board. (Sec. 3) Mandates that amounts in the Nuclear Waste Fund be appropriated exclusively for certain authorized purposes cited in the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982. Precludes such appropriations from being taken into account for any budget enforcement procedures under the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. Amends such Act to provide that appropriations to the Nuclear Waste Fund are not subject to its discretionary spending limits or to a certain allocation of the Energy and Waster Development Subcommittee of the Appropriations Committee. Reduces specified discretionary spending limits under the Congressional Budget Act of 1974.
United States · United States Congress · 21 February 1995
National Language Act of 1995 - Makes English the official language of the U.S. Government. Requires the Government to conduct its official business in English, including publications, income tax forms, and informational materials. Provides that this Act shall not apply to the use of a language other than English for religious purposes, for training in foreign languages for international communication, to programs in schools designed to encourage students to learn foreign languages, or by persons over age 62. Permits the Government to provide interpreters for persons over age 62. Repeals the Bilingual Education Act. Terminates the Office of Bilingual Education and Minority Languages Affairs in the Department of Education. Sets forth provisions regarding the recapture of unexpended funds and transitional provisions. Repeals provisions of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 regarding bilingual election requirements and regarding congressional findings of voting discrimination against language minorities, prohibition of English-only elections, and other remedial measures. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to require that all public ceremonies in which the oath of allegiance is administered pursuant to such Act be conducted solely in English. Specifies that this Act shall not preempt the law of any State.
United States · United States Congress · 21 February 1995
ERISA Targeted Health Insurance Reform Act of 1995 - Title I: Improved Access to Affordable Health Plan Coverage - Subtitle A: Increased Availability and Continuity of Group Health Plan Coverage for Employees and Their Families - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to provide for access to, and continuity of, group health plan coverage. (Sec. 1001) Provides for: (1) nondiscrimination and limitations on preexisting condition exclusions; (2) portability; (3) requirements for renewability of coverage; and (4) group health plan participation standards. Encourages private standards-setting organizations for provider networks and utilization review under group health plans. Establishes standards applicable to insurers offering health insurance coverage to group health plans. Provides for enforcement with respect to insurers offering health insurance coverage to group health plans. Preempts State laws that differ from such uniform national standards under ERISA. Subtitle B: Requirements for Insurers Offering Health Insurance Coverage to Group Health Plans of Small Employers - Establishes ERISA requirements for insurers offering health insurance coverage to group health plans of small employers. (Sec. 1101) Requires insurers to offer general, catastrophic, and optional medisave coverage to small employers. Requires use of fair rating, uniform marketing materials, and miscellaneous consumer protections. Authorizes States to implement and enforce such uniform national standards. Grants States that elect to implement such standards the exclusive authority to enforce them as they apply to insurers only, and not to the group health plans purchasing health insurance coverage. Allows a three-year phase-in period during which States can conform existing standards with such uniform standards. Preempts differing standards after such period. Subtitle C: Encouragement of Multiple Employer Health Plans and Preemption - Limits the scope of State regulation. Prohibits: (1) State benefit mandates for group health plans; and (2) State prohibition of employer groups purchasing health insurance. Preempts State anti-managed care laws. (Sec. 1202) Preempts State laws for multiple employer health plans meeting Federal standards. Relieves exempted multiple employer health plans of certain restrictions on preemption of State law. Treats such plans as employee welfare benefit plans. Sets forth an exemption procedure and eligibility requirements, as well as additional requirements applicable to exempted multiple employer health plans. Requires: (1) disclosure to participating employers by arrangements providing medical care; (2) maintenance of reserves; and (3) notice for voluntary termination. Sets forth provisions for: (1) corrective actions and mandatory termination; (2) expiration, suspension, or revocation of exemption; and (3) review of actions of the Secretary of Labor. (Sec. 1203) Revises provisions relating to: (1) the scope of preemption rules; (2) treatment of single employer arrangements; and (3) treatment of certain collectively bargained arrangements. (Sec. 1206) Sets forth requirements for employee leasing health care arrangements. (Sec. 1207) Sets forth enforcement provisions relating to multiple employer welfare arrangements and employee leasing health care arrangements. (Sec. 1208) Sets forth filing requirements for multiple employer welfare arrangements offering health benefits. (Sec. 1209) Provides for cooperation between Federal and State authorities. (Sec. 1210) Revises provisions for treatment of employer health coalitions and health maintenance organizations. (Sec. 1211) Requires a single annual filing for all participating employers. Subtitle D: Remedies and Enforcement with Respect to Group Health Plans - Sets forth a claims procedure for group health plans, as well as court remedies for claims disputes. Subtitle E: Funding and Plan Termination Requirements for Self-Insured Group Health Plans - Sets forth special rules for funding and plan termination for self-insured group health plans. Subtitle F: General Provisions - Declares that nothing in this Act may be construed to require the coverage of any specific procedure, treatment, or service as part of a group health plan or health insurance coverage under this Act or through regulation.
![Official portrait of Rep. Porter, John Edward [R-IL-10]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/p000444_200.jpg)