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United States · Official source
1,522 records where Rep. Pritchard, Joel [R-WA-1] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Vietnam Veterans National Medal Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to coin and sell a medal in honor of the members and former members of the Armed Forces who served in Vietnam. Declares that the Secretary shall offer such medals for sale to the public at a price sufficient to cover the cost of minting and distributing of such medals.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Cigarette Safety Act - Directs the Consumer Product Safety Commission to promulgate, within 24 months, final performance standards for cigarettes and little cigars ensuring a minimal capacity for igniting smoldering fabric fires. Requires publication in the Federal Register, together with detailed reasons, of any decision not to promulgate a standard based on a finding that it is technologically impracticable or economically unreasonable. Authorizes the Commission to prohibit manufacturers from stockpiling such products to which such standards apply. Provides for judicial review of such standards in an appropriate U.S. court of appeals. Declares such cigarette safety standards to be subject to all remedial and penalty provisions of the Consumer Product Safety Act. Authorizes appropriations necessary to carry out this Act for the first three fiscal years beginning after enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
World War I Veterans Service Pension Act - Directs the Administrator of Veterans Affairs to pay (in addition to any pension already paid) a monthly pension of $150 to each veteran of World War I who meets specified service requirements and to certain surviving spouses.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Authorizes and requests the President to designate February 27, 1986, as Hugo LaFayette Black Day.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Designates the week beginning May 8, 1983, as Municipal Clerk's Week.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Designates November 1983 as National Alzheimer's Disease Month.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Authorizes and requests the President to designate the week of October 2, 1983, as National Port Week.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Designates May 21, 1983, as National Sakharov Day. Authorizes and requests the President to: (1) call upon all nations to designate May 21, 1983, as National Sakharov Day; (2) urge the Soviet Union to permit the Sakharovs to freely choose their place of residence; and (3) direct the American delegation to the United Nations to introduce a resolution in the General Assembly calling upon that body to designate May 21, 1983, as International Sakharov Day.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983
Authorizes and requests the President to designate the week of April 10 to 16, 1983, as A Week of Remembrance for the Fortieth Anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1983
Comprehensive Smoking Prevention Education Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to inform the public of the health hazards of cigarettes through research, demonstration, and educational activities. Establishes an Interagency Committee on Smoking and Health to coordinate such Federal and private activities. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress biennially (with the first report due by January 1, 1984). Amends the Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act to require cigarette packages to carry one of three specified label warnings on a rotating basis. Includes exports under such requirements. Makes it unlawful to advertise cigarettes without one of three specified warnings. Makes it unlawful to manufacture, import, or package cigarettes commercially without disclosing tar, nicotine, and carbon monoxide levels on the package. Requires the Secretary to test such levels at least once a year. Makes it unlawful to manufacture, import, or package cigarettes commercially without first filing with the Secretary a list of chemical additives (types and amounts). Requires the Secretary to report at least annually to Congress regarding cigarette additives and their health hazards. Increases the fine for violation of such Act from $10,000 to $100,000.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1983
Title I: Consumer Credit - Consumer Debtor Bankruptcy Amendments Act of 1983 - Amends the Bankruptcy Code to permit a bankruptcy court to dismiss a case or suspend all proceedings if it determines that a debtor whose debts are primarily consumer debts does not need the provisions of the chapter under which relief has been sought and the granting of relief under such chapter would be a substantial abuse of its provisions. Requires the Clerk of each Federal judicial district to compile statistics regarding debtors where debts are primarily consumer debts. Requires the bankruptcy judge to convene, and permits such judge to preside at, any meeting of creditors and to perform such additional judicial duties as may be required. Declares that the value of the creditor's interest in the estate's interest in consumer goods property shall be determined in light of the purpose of the valuation and of the proposed disposition or use of such property, and in conjunction with any hearing on such disposition or use or on a plan effecting such creditor's interest. Declares that the value of consumer goods which the debtor seeks to redeem in liquidation shall be presumed to be the established resale market price, if such market exists. Permits the court to utilize other methods of valuation if no such market exists or if the court determines that resale value is inappropriate in light of the property's proposed use or disposition. Requires the debtor in bankruptcy cases to file a statement of estimated income and expenses for the year following filing of his petition. Requires the debtor, if the schedule of assets and liabilities include consumer debts secured by property of the estate, to file and serve upon each creditor holding such security and upon the trustee, a statement expressing the debtor's intention with respect to retention or surrender of the collateral. Requires the debtor, at or before the meeting of creditors provided for by such title, to perform his intention with regard to such secured creditors. Requires that the notice of meeting of the creditors be accompanied by a copy of the statement of estimated income and expenses and that the debtor supply the clerk of the court, upon the filing of the petition, with enough copies of such statement to accommodate the listed creditors. Requires individuals filing for bankruptcy in joint or consolidated cases to elect either the Federal or State exemptions. Places an aggregate limit of $3,000 on the value of the exemption with regard to household goods and personal effects. Prohibits the debtor from utilizing the unused dollar value of the homestead exemption to exempt additional property not explicitly provided for by such Act. Repeals the provisions of such Act which currently authorize the debtor to avoid nonpurchase money security interest in property. Presumes nondischargeable any debt incurred on or within 40 days before the date of the filing of a petition under such title. Allows for rebuttal of such presumption. Allows creditors to enforce liens which have not been avoided in bankruptcy. Permits reaffirmation of consumer debts subject to the debtor's right to rescind any such agreement within 60 days or until a discharge is received, whichever occurs later. Declares that at the meeting of creditors the court shall inform the debtor of the nature and effect of a discharge and of any reaffirmation of debt. Prohibits the custodian from being an assignee under a general assignment for the benefit of the debtor's creditors that was appointed or took possession more than 120 days before the date of the filing of the petition. Permits the trustee or the court, however, to require such an assignee to file an accounting. Limits the trustee's power to avoid liens or recover payments made within 90 days of the filing of the petition in bankruptcy (within one year in the case of an insider) unless the creditor had reasonable cause to believe the debtor was insolvent. Permits the court, upon notice and hearing, to require a creditor to accept payments in redemption of the value of a claim secured by a nonpossessory, nonpurchase money security interest in tangible personal property, over a reasonable period not to exceed five years, if such tangible personal property consists of specified household goods and tools of the debtor's trade. Permits the court, upon notice and hearing, to avoid any lien in whole or in part, if the court finds;: (1) that the debtor has no reasonable ability to pay the redemption value of such property out of anticipated future income; and (2) the enforcement of such lien would impose undue hardship on the debtor. Allows a creditor, upon 10 days notice to the debtor and codebtor, to collect any portion of a debt from the codebtor which is not being paid by the debtor through the adjustment of debts of such debtor with a regular income. Requires payments under an adjustment of debts payment plan to commence within thirty days after the filing of the plan. Provides for the return of such funds after deducting the costs of administration if no plan is confirmed. Provides for the separate classification of codebtor claims and non-dischargeable claims and authorizes payment of them under an adjustment of debts payment plan. Allows a debtor to choose such a repayment plan of up to five years. Bases such repayment upon the debtor's ability to repay out of future income after taking into account the basic living necessities for the debtor and dependents. Provides for an early discharge of debts where a reasonable portion of unsecured claims are paid. Permits a hardship discharge of otherwise non-dischargeable debts to the extent the debtor attempted to pay such debts under an adjustment of debts payment plan, but was prevented from so doing by unforeseen circumstances. Title II: Agricultural Produce - Agricultural Produce Bailment Bankruptcy Amendments Act of 1983 - Requires bankruptcy courts to give priority to allowed unsecured claims of farmers arising from the sale or conversion of farm produce to or by a debtor who operates a farm produce storage facility. Specifies that such sale or conversion must have occurred within 180 days before the filing of the petition or before the cessation of the debtor's business, whichever occurs first. Limits the payment of any such claim to $2,000 per individual. Permits a bankruptcy court to expedite the procedures for determining interests in and the disposition of grain and proceeds held by debtors who own or operate grain storage facilities. Requires the court to expedite such procedures if requested by a trustee or a claimant. Sets forth factors for the court to consider before deciding whether to shorten the time periods for procedures. Lists the procedures which may be expedited. Specifies administration details. Title III: Miscellaneous - Declares that if any provision of this Act or the application thereof to any person or circumstances is held invalid the provisions of every other part and their application shall not be affected thereby. Makes the provisions of this Act effective 90 days after enactment. Declares that the amendments made by this Act shall not apply to cases pending before the date of enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1983
Designates the week of May 29, 1983, as National Tourism Week.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1983
Amends the Export Administration Act of 1979 to require the President to report to Congress on the reasons for imposing national security, foreign policy, or short supply export controls on any U.S. goods or technology. Terminates such controls if Congress, within 30 days of its receipt of the report, adopts a concurrent resolution disapproving the controls.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1983
Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Enhancement Act of 1983 - Title I: Fish Restoration Program - Amends the Federal Aid in Fish Restoration Act to direct coastal States to equitably allocate apportioned revenues under the Fish Restoration Act of 1983 between marine and freshwater fish projects. Defines "coastal State" for purposes of this Act. Authorizes appropriations equal to revenues accruing under: (1) the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 with respect to taxes on special motor fuels and gasoline used as fuel in motor boats and the tax imposed on sport fishing equipment; and (2) the Tariff Schedules of the United States for import duties on fishing tackle, yachts, and pleasure craft. Makes certain amounts of such revenues available to: (1) the Secretary of Transportation for boating safety programs and boating facilities improvement programs under the Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971; and (2) the Secretary of the Interior for sport fish restoration under this Act. Reduces the percentage of annual appropriations available to the Secretary of the Interior for the expenses of investigations and administration. Eliminates notification requirements of States of intent to accept apportioned funds. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements to finance up to 75 percent of the costs of land acquisition and construction of facilities. Permits each State to use up to ten percent of apportioned funds for an aquatic resource education program and an angler and aquatic safety education program. Amends the Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971, the Recreational Boating Safety and Facilities Improvement Act of 1980, and the Highway Revenue Act of 1956 to conform to provisions of this Act. Title II: Tax on Sale of Sport Fishing Equipment - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose a tax on the sale by the manufacturer, producer, or importer of any article of sport fishing equipment, electric trolling motors, and fish finders.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1983
Emergency Educational Facilities Repair and Renovation for Jobs Act - Title I: Elementary and Secondary Educational Facilities - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1983 through 1988 to the Department of Education to provide funds under this title to local educational agencies (LEAs) to employ unemployed individuals in maintenance, repair, renovation, and reconstruction of public school facilities. Requires States desiring to receive an allocation of such funds to submit a statement of assurances to the Secretary of Education concerning allocation of funds to LEAs and compliance with fiscal control and fund accounting procedures. Directs the Secretary to allocate one percent of such funds to specified U.S. territories and possessions and the remainder among the States and the District of Columbia on the basis of relative numbers of: (1) unemployed residents; (2) unemployed residents of areas of substantial unemployment (at least six and one-half percent for the most recent 12 months); (3) "excess" (number of unemployed individuals in excess of four and one-half percent of the civilian labor force either in the State or in areas of substantial unemployment) unemployed residents; and (4) low-income children. Prohibits the State educational agency (SEA) from reserving from the amount allocated to the State more than (1) one percent for administrative cost; and (2) four percent for special needs. Directs the SEA, from the remainder, to allocate: (1) three-fourths among counties on the basis of relative numbers of unemployed residents and within each county according to the fund distribution formula under specified provisions of the Education Consolidation and Improvement Act of 1981 (ECIA); and (2) one-fourth among the LEAs on the basis of such ECIA formula. Requires that at least 70 percent of the funds made available to any LEA under this title be used for salaries and wages and associated benefits for individuals employed directly or indirectly by the LEA in such public school facilities repair, renovation, or reconstruction programs. Requires that, to the maximum extent feasible, funds under this title be used for projects and activities for which on-site labor can begin within 90 days of receipt of such funds. Requires that such funds be used in accordance with State and local procedures for: (1) assisting SEAs and LEAs to conform their public school facilities with specified requirements under the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and with post-construction requirements of government environmental protection or health and safety programs; (2) public school facilities repair, renovation, and reconstruction; (3) conversion of presently unused structures into adult training centers; (4) energy efficiency remodeling or renovation; and (5) asbestos detection, removal, or containment in facilities used by students. Authorizes the Secretary, on request, to issue rulings to any SEAs or LEAs on the proper construction and application of this title. Title II: Reconstruction at Postsecondary Institutions and Renovation of Academic Facilities - Directs the Secretary to carry out programs of financial assistance to institutions of higher education and to higher education building agencies for the reconstruction or renovation of academic facilities and libraries if the primary purpose of such assistance is to enable such institutions to: (1) economize on the use of energy resources, with a priority for the use of coal, solar, and renewable resources; (2) conform their academic facilities and libraries with specified requirements under the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and with post-construction requirements of government environmental protection or health and safety programs; (3) reconstruct and renovate research facilities; and (4) detect, remove, or contain asbestos hazards in facilities used by students. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1983 through 1988 to the Department of Education to provide funds to States to employ unemployed individuals in maintenance, repair, renovation, and reconstruction of academic facilities at institutions of higher education. Sets forth annual State plan requirements for any State desiring to participate in the grant program under this title. Directs the Secretary to prescribe basic criteria for the consideration of State plans. Sets forth provisions for allocation of funds which are similar to those for title I of this Act (except that the factor of relative numbers of low- income children is replaced by relative numbers of students enrolled in institutions of higher education in each State). Sets forth provisions for use of funds and for the Secretary's authority which are similar to those for title I of this Act. Title III: Public Library Facilities - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1983 through 1988 to the Department of Education to provide funds for the repair, renovation, remodeling, and alteration of facilities for public libraries. Directs the Secretary to allot from such funds to each State the minimum allotment specified under certain provisions of the Library Services and Construction Act. Provides for the allocation of the remainder of such funds among the State on a similar basis as those for allocation under titles I and II of this Act (but without the factors of relative numbers of low-income children or college students). Sets forth provisions for use of funds which are similar to those under titles I and II of this Act, but requires that only 60 percent (rather than 70 percent) of such funds be used for salaries and wages of the individuals employed in maintenance, repair, renovation, or reconstruction. Directs State library administrative agencies, to the maximum extent feasible, to consider relative unemployment in each county in determining projects to be funded under this title. Directs the Secretary to administer this title under existing regulations for title II (Public Library Construction) of the Library Services and Construction Act, but may, on request, issue rulings to any State on issues concerning the proper construction and application of this title. Title IV: General Provisions - Sets forth nondiscrimination provisions and other general requirements. Prohibits the employment, in a subsidized wage position under this Act, of individuals who have voluntarily terminated without good cause, within the preceding six months, full-time employment at or exceeding the Federal minimum wage. Requires that individuals in employment subsidized under this Act be paid at either the highest of the federal minimum wage, the applicable State or local minimum wage, or the prevailing wage for employment in similar occupations by the same employer. Sets forth program labor standards relating to conditions of employment and training, health and safety standards, workers' compensation benefits, and job benefits and working conditions. Prohibits use of funds under this Act for contributions on behalf of any participant to retirement systems or plans. Prohibits displacement of any currently employed worker by participants in programs funded under this Act. Prohibits such programs from impairing existing contracts for services or collective bargaining agreements. Requires the written concurrence of the labor organization and the employer concerned before any such program which would be inconsistent with the terms of a collective bargaining agreement may be undertaken. Prohibits program participants from being employed or job openings being filled when: (1) any other individual is on layoff from the same or any substantially equivalent job; or (2) the employer has terminated the employment of any regular employee or otherwise reduced its work force with the intention of filling the vacancy by hiring a participant whose wages are subsidized under this Act. Prohibits creation of jobs in a promotional line that will infringe in any way on the promotional opportunities of currently employed individuals. Requires recipients of funds under this Act to provide the Secretary with assurances that none of such funds will be used to assist, promote, or deter union organizing. Requires that an opportunity for comment be provided for any labor organization representing a substantial number of employees engaged in similar work or training in the same areas as that proposed to be funded under this Act. Applies the wage rate requirements of the Davis-Bacon Act to all laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors in works federally assisted under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1983
Designates the square dance as the national folk dance of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1983
Amends title I of the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 to prohibit the ocean dumping of any liquid hazardous substance starting five years after enactment of this Act. Permits such interim dumping only if the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finds, after notice and opportunity for hearing, that: (1) there is no other technologically feasible method of disposal or treatment; or (2) any such method is more dangerous to human health than ocean dumping. Exempts from such prohibition any substance which is rapidly neutralized in the marine environment. Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to place similar prohibitions on the land disposal of liquid hazardous waste. Requires the Administrator of EPA to notify Congress within two years of those liquid hazardous wastes which can only be land disposed. Authorizes Federal agencies to dispose of liquid hazardous wastes by means other than ocean dumping or land disposal.
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1983
Modifies Federal law to authorize the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to implement and maintain flood control measures on the Cowlitz and Toutle Rivers by dredging or other necessary means. Authorizes the Chief of Engineers to reduce sedimentation flow and the chance of blockage on the Columbia River, Washington. Declares that such authorization shall remain in effect until certain permanent measures are fully implemented.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1983
Amends the National Sea Grant College Program Act to authorize appropriations for FY 1984 and FY 1985.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1983
Neighborhood Development Demonstration Act of 1983 - Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to conduct a three-year demonstration program to determine the feasibility of assisting neighborhood development activities by providing Federal matching funds to certain nonprofit neighborhood development organizations on the basis of amounts received from the private sector. Authorizes the Secretary to select, through a competitive process, up to 100 organizations to participate in the program in the first year, 200 in the second, and 300 in the third. Directs the Secretary to establish a neighborhood development advisory council to evaluate the applicants and recommend selections. Requires the Secretary to: (1) assign each participating organization a program year during which time voluntary private contributions shall be eligible for matching; and (2) establish a ratio of between three and ten Federal dollars for each dollar contributed which the Secretary shall pay to each organization at the end of each three-month period of the organization's program year. Limits the maximum amount the Secretary may pay to any organization for a year to $50,000. Directs the Secretary to ensure that: (1) assistance is provided to organizations only if their applications include certification by the local government of the area involved that such assistance is consistent with the housing and community development, conservation, and revitalization objectives of such governments; and (2) the neighborhood development activities conducted comply with the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Directs the Secretary to report to Congress on the activities carried out under this Act and any findings or recommendations concerning the demonstration program. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1983
Designates the week of May 15 1983 through May 21, 1983, as National Parkinson's Disease Week.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1983
Increases from 26 to 30 the number of members of the Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations, by adding: (1) one elected officer of a local government of an area with a population of less than 10,000 and one elected school board member, to be appointed by the President; and (2) one judge of a U.S. court of appeals or district court and one chief justice or judge of a State court of last resort, to be appointed by the Chief Justice of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1983
Amends the Military Selective Service Act to permit a person registering under such Act to indicate at the time of registration his desire to be classified as a conscientious objector.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1983
Commends the Government of Zimbabwe for its efforts to protect the lives of two Americans, two Australians, and two British citizens who were kidnapped in Zimbabwe in July 1982. Urges the President to continue to support Zimbabwe in this matter.
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1983
National Commission on Down Syndrome Act - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a National Commission on Down Syndrome to formulate a long-range plan for the study, prevention, and treatment of Down Syndrome. Requires a final report to the President and the Congress within 12 months after the Commission is organized. Requires the Secretary to submit a related budget analysis to specified congressional committees. Terminates the Commission three months after submission of the final report. Authorizes specified appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1983
Designates the week beginning October 2, 1983, as National Children's Week.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1983
Port Development and Navigation Improvement Act of 1983 - Sets forth the findings of Congress concerning deep-draft commercial ports in the United States. Title I: Priority Approval Program for Maintenance and Navigation Improvement Projects - Directs the Secretary of the Army, through the Chief of Engineers, to submit to Congress within two years after enactment of this Act a comprehensive, five-year port development and maintenance program. Requires such program to include alternate disposal sites for dredged or fill material. Directs the Secretary, in consultation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, to submit to Congress a programmatic environmental impact statement, including additional specified information. Provides for congressional disapproval (veto) of such maintenance programs and navigational improvement projects by concurrent resolution of Congress within 60 days. Directs the Secretary to submit to Congress modifications of approved maintenance and navigational improvement projects. Declares that if Congress fails to adopt a concurrent congressional resolution of disapproval (veto) within 60 days following receipt of specified documents concerning dredging or changes in maintenance projects, such changes or projects shall be deemed approved. Provides that compliance with all procedural requirements under certain environmental statutes relating to maintenance dredging, issuance of permits, and approval to dispose of dredged or fill material for approved projects shall be conclusively presumed. Describes conditions of eligibility for priority construction by the Secretary of navigation improvement projects subject to congressional approval. Sets forth documentation requirements for such projects. Sets forth procedures for certain environmental permit action. Defines final environmental impact statement requirements for navigation improvement projects. Provides for the congressional approval of a navigation improvement project by adopting an approval resolution under certain procedures within 60 days of the submission of the project document. Authorizes the Secretary and the State port authority concerned to enter into a cost-sharing agreement in which the State port authority agrees to reimburse the United States for 50 percent of the construction funds appropriated and 75 percent of the additional annual operating and maintenance costs of such project. Permits a State port authority that constructs a navigation improvement project on its own to finance such construction through a uniform system of user fees in the form of tonnage duties. Provides for mandatory contribution by adjacent ports for the construction and maintenance of navigation improvement projects involving common entrance channels from which such an adjacent port derives benefits. Makes eligible for construction financing assistance certain navigation improvement projects, for which permits were approved under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, where such projects will increase the depth of deep-draft commercial port channels (other than access channels) to more than 45 feet. Directs the Secretary, on a continuing basis, to determine: (1) the dredging or other operation and maintenance necessary for a project and for associated access channels and berthing areas; and (2) the sites at which dredged or fill material should be disposed. Requires the Secretary to submit project maintenance to Congress for approval and to implement such maintenance unless disapproved. Prohibits a State port authority from implementing such project maintenance, unless approved and supervised by the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to enter into memoranda of agreement with: (1) the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, regarding the disposal of dredged and fill material into ocean or navigable waters; and (2) the Secretaries of the Interior and Commerce, concerning the environmental aspects of the maintenance and improvement of federally authorized channels in deep-draft commercial ports. Sets forth procedures for congressional approval of new navigational improvement projects. Title II: Financing of Navigation Improvement Projects - Grants the consent of Congress to the levying by States of tonnage duties. Lists the purposes of such duties, including reimbursement of the United States in regard to navigation improvement projects. Authorizes State port authorities to use such tonnage duties for specified purposes, including: (1) port safety and security; (2) emergency response services; and (3) relocation of submerged cables and pipelines. Directs the Secretary to establish guidelines by which State port authorities shall compute the rates of such tonnage duties. Directs the Comptroller General to audit periodically the operations of State port authorities dealing with such tonnage duties. Sets forth procedures for the enforcement of the collection of such tonnage duties, including injunctive relief, withholding of clearances, and the imposition of maritime liens. Requires the Secretary of Transportation to conduct certain studies and to make findings and policy determinations before recommending to Congress the adoption of deep-draft user charges for financing navigation improvement projects in deep-draft commercial ports. Sets forth certain matters to be considered in the deep-draft user charges study. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Authorizes appropriations. Allows the Secretary, upon congressional approval, to transfer funds from existing Department of the Army civil appropriations pending appropriation of such authorized sums.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1983
Title I: Armed Forces, Soldiers' Home, Coast Guard, Lighthouse Service, and Merchant Marine - Amends Federal laws dealing with the Army, the Navy, the Air Force, and the Coast Guard to eliminate gender-based distinctions. Title II: Elimination of Gender-Based Distinctions Under the Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Program, Railroad Retirement and the Work Incentive Program - Eliminates gender-based distinctions in the social security and railroad retirement programs. Title III: Amendments to United States Code - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act, the Walsh-Healey Act, the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, the Federal criminal code and other Acts dealing with Indian affairs, transportation, public lands and provisions relating to Saint Elizabeth Hospital and contract law to eliminate gender-based distinctions. Title IV: Effective Date - Sets forth the effective date for the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 15 February 1983
Authorizes and requests the President to designate May 1983 as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1983
Amends the Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion Act of 1980 to authorize appropriations to the Secretary of Commerce for FY 1984 and 1985 to be used by for the use of the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in carrying out such Act. Provides that the ocean thermal energy conversion facilities to be authorized and regulated under such Act shall be facilities located in whole or in part between the highwater mark and the seaward boundary of the territorial sea. Prohibits the issuance of a license for the ownership, construction, or operation of an ocean thermal energy conversion facility if the proposed facility will be documented under the laws of a foreign nation. Provides that marine environmental protection and safety regulations shall apply only to ocean thermal energy conversion facilities which have major components, other than water intake or discharge pipes, located seaward of the highwater mark. Makes technical and conforming amendments. Requires the Administrator to report to the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives on the administration of the Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion Act of 1980 during each of FY 1984 and 1985. (Under current law, the Administrator must report on the administration of such Act through FY 1983.)
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1983
Residential Mortgage Investment Act of 1983 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 and the Internal Revenue Code to exempt from specified prohibited transaction provisions: (1) any qualified mortgage transaction engaged in by an employee benefit plan provided only that such transaction received the prior approval of an independent fiduciary; and (2) purchase, retention, or sale by an employee benefit plan of interests in Federal or State government-guaranteed residential mortgage loans.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1983
Domestic Violence Prevention and Services Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to States, local public agencies, and nonprofit organizations for projects designed to prevent domestic violence and to provide immediate shelter and other assistance for victims and dependents of victims of domestic violence. Sets forth conditions for receiving the formula grants, including that the State: (1) distribute funds to local public agencies and private nonprofit organizations for domestic violence programs and services; (2) distribute at least 70 percent of such funds to private nonprofit organizations and give special emphasis to supporting community-based projects; (3) set forth procedures to assure an equitable distribution of grants within the State; (4) designate a State agency to administer the domestic violence program and coordinate all such programs within the State; (5) set forth procedures to assure active citizen participation within the State; (6) provide assurances that any project funded will coordinate its activities with other State programs and be administered by appropriately trained personnel; and (7) comply with reporting requirements. Declares that the Secretary shall not disapprove any application except after notice of and opportunity for a hearing. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to Indian tribes and intertribal organizations. Provides that such funds may not be used for direct payment to any victim of domestic violence or to a dependent of such victim, and that no income eligibility standard may be imposed for anyone seeking services under this Act. Limits the total amount of grants to any local program to $150,000 for not more than a three-year period. Limits the grant for any fiscal year to $50,000. Requires local public agencies and private organizations to provide the following shares of Federal funding: (1) 25 percent in the first year; (2) 33.33 percent the second year; and (3) 50 percent the third year. Requires that at least 75 percent of grants be distributed to entities providing immediate shelter and related assistance to victims. Authorizes the Secretary to make supplemental grants to States for: (1) administrative costs; (2) developing and implementing programs; (3) assuring active citizen participation; and (4) developing a media campaign. Provides that each State will be allotted at least $45,000 in formula grants and $7,500 in supplemental grants. Requires each State receiving assistance to submit detailed annual reports to the Secretary on the implementation of programs. Directs the Secretary to: (1) designate a director of programs carried out under this title; (2) establish a national information clearinghouse on domestic violence, in coordination with the child abuse clearinghouse; (3) make recommendations to Congress regarding domestic violence programs; and (4) obtain information on research relating to domestic violence. Directs the Secretary to make annual reports to Congress and to evaluate and report on the effectiveness of the programs no later than two years after funds are obligated. Sets forth confidentiality requirements with respect to records of persons assisted under this title. Establishes the Federal Interagency Council on Domestic Violence to assist the Secretary in coordinating Federal programs. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Secretary to report to the President and Congress within 18 months of enactment on the nature and incidence of abuse of elderly individuals.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1983
Eliminates the social security offset against annuities provided under the Survivor Benefit Plan of the armed service when the benefits received are based on the annuitant's own employment.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1983
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases Act of 1983 - Amends title IV (National Research Institutes) of the Public Health Service Act to establish a National Institute (Institute) of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases in the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Redesignates the existing National Institute of Arthritis, Diabetes, and Digestive and Kidney Diseases as the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. States that the Institute shall conduct research and related activities concerning arthritis and musculoskeletal diseases, including sports-related disorders and skin diseases. Requires the Director of the Institute, with the advice of the National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Advisory Council, to establish a national plan to coordinate such activities. Establishes within the Institute: (1) the National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases Data System; and (2) the National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1986. Establishes within the Institute: (1) an Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases Interagency Coordinating Committee; and (2) a Skin Diseases Interagency Coordinating Committee. Requires annual reports to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and to the Director of NIH. Establishes within the Institute a National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases Advisory Council. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1986 for arthritis and musculoskeletal demonstration projects and multipurpose disease centers. Requires the Institute to submit a biennial report. Transfers arthritis-related functions (including data system, advisory functions, coordinating functions, demonstration project, and multipurpose center), funds, personnel, and assets to the Institute from the existing National Institute of Arthritis, Diabetes, and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Requires the Secretary to report to the appropriate congressional committees and to the Comptroller General within 60 days regarding such transfers. Requires the Comptroller General to report to the appropriate congressional committees within 80 days regarding such transfers. Terminates the National Arthritis Advisory Board. Makes conforming amendments. Requires the Secretary, through NIH, to conduct a study of the existing combinations of disease research programs within the institutes and of the standards to be followed in establishing new or realigning existing institutes. Requires a report to the appropriate congressional committees within 18 months. Prohibits the establishment of any new institutes within six months of such report's submission. Directs the Secretary to conduct and complete within 60 days a review of the disease research programs of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (as redesignated by this Act) to determine if any of these programs could be more effectively managed by other national research institutions.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1983
Designates the week of June 24, 1984, as Federal Credit Union Week.
United States · United States Congress · 8 February 1983
National Commission on the Improvement of America's Infrastructure Act of 1983 - Establishes the National Commission on the Improvement of America's Infrastructure to conduct an inventory of existing major public improvements by major city, region, and State. Includes among major public improvements bridges, highways, roads, railroads, airports, mass transit systems, locks and dams, water systems, and sewer systems. Requires the Commission to develop a National Public Improvements Plan, based on such inventory, which ranks all major public improvements on the basis of need for replacement or major repair. Requires the inclusion in such plan of recommendations with respect to: (1) financing such replacement or repair and routine maintenance; and (2) necessary changes in Federal, State, or local laws to sustain national economic development or to achieve equity among regions in the quality of major improvements. Sets forth procedures for the submission of such plan to the President and Congress. Terminates the Commission the day after it submits such plan. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 8 February 1983
Designates the week beginning September 25, 1983, as National Adult Day Care Center Week.
United States · United States Congress · 8 February 1983
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that Anatoly Shcharansky should be released from prison and permitted to emigrate. Urges continued expression of U.S. opposition to the imprisonment of Anatoly Shcharansky.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1983
Maritime Services Financial Responsibility Act of 1983 - Requires owners of vessels engaged in foreign commerce and using the ports or navigable waters of the United States to establish and maintain evidence of financial responsibility to meet claims in connection with maritime services. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to refuse clearance to such vessels which upon request do not have certification from the Federal Maritime Commission of compliance with this Act. Authorizes the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to deny entry to, or detain at, any port or place in the United States any vessel which does not comply with provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1983
National Heritage Resource Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow creators of artistic properties an income tax deduction for the current fair market value of literary, musical, or artistic compositions which they contribute to charitable organizations. Requires: (1) that the artistic property be created by the taxpayer at least one year prior to the time of such contribution; (2) that the fair market value of such property be appraised within one year of the date of contribution; and (3) that the donee of such property show that the use of the property will be related to the charitable purpose or function of his organization. Denies a fair market value deduction for contributions of any letter, memorandum, or similar property produced by a Federal or State employee which arose out of the performance of such employee's official duties. Exempts such fair market value deduction from the application of the minimum tax.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1983
United States Academy of Peace and Conflict Resolution Act - Establishes the United States Academy of Peace and Conflict Resolutions as an independent nonprofit corporation. Permits the Academy to use "United States" or "U.S." or any other reference to the United States Government or Nation in its title, corporate seal, emblem, or other mark of recognition in any fiscal year only if there is an authorization of appropriations for the Academy for such fiscal year provided by law. Sets forth the powers and the duties of the Academy, including establishment of an Endowment of the United States Academy of Peace and Conflict Resolution. Authorizes the Academy to: (1) conduct research on the causes of war and the elements of peace; (2) provide peace education and research programs; (3) conduct training in conflict resolution; (4) disseminate information on peace learning; (5) establish a Center for International Peace; and (6) establish a United States Medal of Peace and other medals or honors. Authorizes the Academy to refuse research requests of Federal agencies for reason of cost or of inappropriateness to the Agency's purpose or independence. Prohibits the Academy from undertaking to influence the passage or defeat of any Federal, State, local, or United Nations legislation, but permits Academy personnel to testify or make other appropriate communication when formally requested to do so by a legislative body, committee, or member thereof. Provides for appointment of members of the Academy's Board of Directors. Sets forth grounds for removal of Board members. Permits Board meetings to be closed only in exceptional circumstances. Sets forth provisions for Academy officers, employees, procedures, and records. Provides that, with certain exceptions, the Academy shall not be considered a department, agency, or instrumentality of the Government. Prohibits the use of any political test or political qualification with respect to personnel actions of the Academy or financial assistance by the Academy. Authorizes appropriations in a specified amount for an Academy principal office capitalization fund. Authorizes appropriations in specified amounts for FY 1984 and 1985 for Academy programs and administration. Requires that Academy expenses in connection with the United States Medal of Peace or the accompanying cash award be paid out of the private funds of the Endowment. Restricts contract-making authority under this Act to the extent and amounts provided in appropriation Acts. Directs the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Academy to report to the Congress and the President, beginning two years after the enactment of this Act and at two-year intervals thereafter. Directs the President to transmit to the Congress the recommendations of the appropriate Federal agencies with respect to such report and to any legislation concerning the Academy. Requires the appropriate congressional committees to hold hearings to review such report and recommendations.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1983
Equal Access to Voting Rights Act - Directs the Attorney General to promulgate guidelines to assure that registration and polling place facilities used for Federal elections are readily accessible to handicapped and elderly individuals. Sets forth minimum requirements for these guidelines. Requires States to make available registration and voting aids for handicapped and elderly individuals in Federal elections. Authorizes the Attorney General and aggrieved persons to bring actions in Federal court to enforce this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1983
Federal Capital Investment Budget Act of 1983 - Amends the Budget and Accounting Act, 1921 to require the President to include with each Budget submitted on or after January 1, 1984, a special analysis for the ensuing fiscal year which shall identify and summarize for each function, category, agency, and program in the Budget the amount of appropriations and expenditures which may be classified as public infrastructure investments. Sets forth other information to be included in such analysis. Requires the President also to include with each Budget, on or after January 1, 1985, a capital investment budget which shall identify by State the amount of appropriations and expenditures classifiable as public infrastructure investments. Declares that any appropriation or expenditure shall be classified as a public infrastructure investment to the extent that it will be used for the construction, rehabilitation, or repair of any civilian public facility in the United States. Amends the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 to require the Economic Development Administration to prepare an inventory of civilian public facilities in the United States and an assessment of their physical condition. Requires the Secretary to make a report of such inventory and assessment to Congress not later than January 1, 1985, and to update such report annually.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1983
Authorizes and requests the President to designate the week of March 13 through 19, 1983 as National Employ the Older Worker Week.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1983
Housing Finance Opportunity Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to permit the continued issuance of tax-exempt (interest excluded from gross income) mortgage revenue bonds after December 31, 1983.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1983
Directs the President to resume negotiations with the Soviet Union on a treaty prohibiting: (1) the testing, deployment, production, or use of any weapons system designed to damage or interfere with a spacecraft; and (2) the stationing in outer space of any weapon designed to inflict injury or damage on the Earth, in the atmosphere, or on objects placed in space. Requires such a treaty to provide for verifying compliance with its terms. Directs the President to request the United Nations to bring about multilateral negotiations banning all weapons based in space.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1983
Designates February 1984 as American History Month.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1983
Expresses the sense of the Congress that funding for community service employment programs for senior citizens under title V of the Older Americans Act of 1965 for FY 1984 and subsequent fiscal years should be provided at levels sufficient to maintain or increase the number of employment positions provided under such programs.
United States · United States Congress · 1 February 1983
Infrastructure Revitalization Act of 1983 - Title I: Capital Investment Budget - Federal Capital Investment Budget Act of 1983 - Requires the President to include with each budget on or after January 1, 1985, a special analysis of Federal capital investments. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to promulgate regulations providing for the consistent classification of Federal capital investment spending. Title II: Dedicated Revenue Incentives - Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to make it out of order for either the House or the Senate to consider any budget legislation including or assuming reconciliation instructions with respect to any budget process enforcement device restricting any legislation in which the spending authority or budget authority is derived from any trust fund where the amount of anticipated receipts or the budget authority estimated to result exceeds the estimated amount of total new obligational authority. Title III: National Commission on the Rebuilding of America - Establishes the National Commission on the Rebuilding of America to study and report on the state of the Nation's infrastructure. Directs the Commission to submit its final report to the Congress and the President within one year of its first meeting. Terminates the Commission six months after the submission of such report. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this title.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1983
Amends the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, to require that U.S. documented vessels be used for the transportation of merchandise between points within the United States and Canada, when such transportation is in part over Canadian rail lines.