United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1974
States that the House of Representatives disapproves the recommendations of the President with respect to rates of pay transmitted to the Congress during February, 1974.
United States · United States Congress · 6 February 1974
Increases, under the Lower Saint Croix River Act of 1972, the maximum allowable appropriations by $11,725,000 (to $19,000,000) for the acquisition and development of lands and interests therein, within the boundaries of the 27 mile segment of the Lower Saint Croix River in Wisconsin and Minnesota to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior.
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1974
Establishes hearing procedures for the determination of exemptions, inspection requirements, and specified other enforcement actions of the United States Department of Agriculture under the provisions of the Federal Meat Inspection Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1974
Farm Labor Contractor Registration Act Amendments - Extends the coverage of the Farm Labor Contractor Registration Act. Increases the amount of insurance coverage required of a farm labor contractor who engages in the transportation of migrant workers. Provides sanctions for failure or refusal of a farm labor contractor, when acting in that capacity, to present his certificate of registration. Requires one engaging the services of a farm labor contractor to first observe such certificate. Gives the Secretary of Agriculture the power to subpoena testimony and evidence with respect to investigations of possible violations of this Act. Increases penalties for violations of this Act to not more than $1,000, imprisonment for six months, or both. Provides a course of legal action and penalties for discrimination against any farm worker.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1974
States that the standard of time for each time zone shall be advanced one hour and such time shall be the standard time of each zone, except that any State may exempt the State from the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 24 January 1974
Allied Services Act - Title I: Human Services Planning Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to State governors or agencies to plan, coordinate, and consolidate human services programs within the State. Defines human services as services provided to individuals or their families to help them achieve, maintain, or support the highest level of personal independence and economic self-sufficiency. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct evalutations, directly or by grant or contract, of programs for the coordinated provision of services and to provide such technical assistance as may be necessary to assist in the planning or operation of such programs. Sets forth the criteria for participation in the program established under this Act for States and for local agencies. Sets forth the criteria for local allied services plans to be approved and incorporated into the State allied services plan. Provides that in order for a State to be eligible to participate in the program established under this Act for any fiscal year, a State allied services plan must be submitted which describes the current status of the coordinated provisions of services within the State and the steps planned for such year and thereafter. Sets forth the criteria for approval of such plan by the Secretary. Title II: Administrative Support Services - Allows the Secretary to make grants to States which have in effect State plans approved under this Act or through such States to local agencies which have local plans approved by such States, to assist in meeting the initial costs of allying or consolidating administrative support services and management functions necessary to facilitate the allied delivery of human services where funds to cover such costs cannot be obtained from other sources. Title III: Special Authorities - Sets forth regulations for the transfer of funds (provided by the Secretary) within the State. Provides that where funds are advanced for a single project or program pursuant to more than one statutory authority or by more than one Federal agency, any one Federal agency may be designated to act for all in administering the funds advanced. Provides that five years after the date of enactment of this Act the Secretary shall make a report to the Congress on the activities that have been carried out under this Act, including his evaluation of those activities and his recommendations with respect to appropriate legislation dealing with allied delivery of human services.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1974
Provides, under the General Education Provisions, that funds appropriated for applicable Federal education programs for fiscal year 1974 shall remain available during the succeeding fiscal year and that such funds for fiscal year 1973 shall remain available during fiscal years 1974 and 1975.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1974
Provides that, effective January 1, 1974, the expenses of the investigations and studies to be conducted pursuant to H. Res. 175, 93rd Congress by the Committee on Education and Labor, acting as a whole or by subcommittee, not to exceed $1,440,000, shall be paid out of the contingent fund of the House on vouchers authorized by such committee, signed by the chairman of such committee, and approved by the Committee on House Administration. States that of such amount $90,000 shall be available for each of eight standing subcommittees of the Committee on Education and Labor. Provides that not to exceed $15,000 of the amount provided by this resolution may be used to procure the temporary or intermittent services of individual consultants or organizations thereof pursuant to the Legislative Reorganization Act. Provides that no part of the funds authorized by this resolution shall be available for expenditure in connection with the study or investigation of any subject which is being investigated for the same purpose by any other committee of the House, and the chairman of the Committee on Education and Labor shall furnish the Committee on House Administration information with respect to any study or investigation intended to be financed from such funds.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1973
Provides that the tax on the amounts paid for communication services shall not apply to the amount of the State and local taxes paid for such services under the Internal Revenue Code.
United States · United States Congress · 11 December 1973
Expresses the support of Congress for the President in his efforts to secure the cooperation of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam and the Provisional Revolutionary Government in accounting for the thirteen hundred men listed as missing in action in Southeast Asis and the exhumation and repatriation of our dead.
United States · United States Congress · 4 December 1973
Adds to the statement of purpose of the Teacher Corps section of the Higher Education Act of 1965 that colleges, universities, and local school systems be encouraged to adopt improved training and retraining programs for educational staff. Authorizes appropriation of necessary sums for the Teacher Corps for fiscal 1975. Extends the term of service in the Teacher Corps from two to five years. Provides for Teacher Corps teaching teams which shall include not less than one experienced teacher and may include other educational personnel, who in addition to their duties as members of the team shall be afforded time by the local educational agency for a training program carried out under the guidance of experienced educational personnel in cooperation with an institution of higher education.
United States · United States Congress · 15 November 1973
Expresses the support of Congress for the President in his efforts to secure the cooperation of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam and the Provisional Revolutionary Government in accounting for the thirteen hundred men listed as missing in action in Southeast Asis and the exhumation and repatriation of our dead.
United States · United States Congress · 15 November 1973
Commends the President of the United States for his actions in the Middle East, particularly his efforts through the United Nations to create the atmosphere in which the negotiations could take place and his dialogue with the Soviet Union in an effort to reduce tensions.
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1973
Solar Heating and Cooling Demonstration Act - Declares it to be the policy of the United States and the purpose of this Act to provide for the demonstration within a three-year period of the practical use of solar heating technology. Defines the terms used in this Act. Directs the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to initiate, support and carry out basic and applied research and development in solar heating and cooling technologies. Provides for the installation of solar heating systems in residential dwellings under the monitoring of the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the National Bureau of Standards and in consultation with the Secretaries of Housing and Urban Development and Defense. Provides that such residential dwellings shall be located in a sufficient number of different geographic areas (not less than three) in the United States to assure a realistic and effective demonstration of solar heating and cooling systems involved. Directs the Director of the National Science Foundation to initiate, support and fund basic and applied research activities related to solar energy in support of the objectives of this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of up to $50,000,000 to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 October 1973
Comprehensive Manpower Act - Title I: Comprehensive Manpower Services - States that the purpose of this title is to establish a comprehensive manpower services program, which shall include development and creation of job opportunities and training, education, and other services individuals need to secure and retain employment. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to make financial assistance available to prime sponsors so that they can carry out a comprehensive manpower program. Defines prime sponsors as States and units of local government. Requires States seeking assistance to submit comprehensive manpower plans before receiving such assistance. Directs that such plans shall provide for cooperation of all appropriate State agencies. Requires States seeking to be prime sponsors to establish Manpower Services Councils to be composed of representatives of units of local governments which have comprehensive manpower plans and a representative from the State vocational education agency and the public employment service. Requires the Councils to monitor the programs of prime sponsors. Allows judicial review of the Secretary's decisions regarding acceptability of comprehensive manpower plans. States that weekly allowances for persons receiving services under this title shall be at rates prescribed by the Secretary which shall, together with the trainee's wages or unemployment compensation, at least equal the minimum wage for a 40-hour week. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to State vocational education boards to assist them in providing their services. Title II: Public Employment Programs - Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to make financial assistance available in areas of substantial unemployment to provide transitional employment in needed public service jobs and training and manpower services related to such employment enabling persons to move into other employment or training. Defines eligible applicants for such assistance as prime sponsors and Indian tribes on reservations which include substantial unemployment. Requires applications for such assistance to: (1) assure special consideration to filling jobs providing for advancement and continuous employment by providing training and manpower services; (2) assure special consideration to post-1954 Korea and Vietnam veterans; (3) describe how participants will be selected; (4) describe jobs to be filled and salaries; (5) assure that the program employs only unemployed persons; and (6) assure that jobs funded under this title are in addition to those that would otherwise be funded. Directs the Secretary, where an Indian Tribe is unable to submit such an application, to assist in its preparation and submission and in implementation of the program. Prohibits financial assistance if a program does not result in an increase in employment opportunities; does not pay usual fringe benefits; does not contribute to occupational development or upward mobility of participants; does not provide for reports enabling evaluation of the comparative effectiveness programs; does not discriminate because of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, political affiliation, or beliefs. Requires the Secretary to annually report in detail to the Congress on the effectiveness of this title. Title III: Special Federal Responsibilities - Authorizes the Secretary to use funds under this title to provide additional manpower services to segments of the population in particular need, including youth, inmates, and older workers. Directs the Secretary to establish a nationally administered comprehensive manpower services program for Indians, Alaska natives, and migrant and seasonal workers. Transfers the duties of Job Corps director to the Secretary of Labor. Authorizes comprehensive work and training programs for low-income, high-unemployment urban areas and rural areas with high out-migration to cities. Describes special programs that may be established for youth who are low-income, unemployed, and undertrained. Directs the Secretary to establish a comprehensive program of manpower research to solve manpower problems, and programs of experimental and demonstration projects to test effectiveness of solutions. Directs the Secretary to develop a comprehensive system of labor market information, including job opportunities, labor supplies, and occupational outlook. Authorizes to Secretary to establish a computerized job bank program. Requires the Secretary to continuously evaluate programs under this Act and compare their effectiveness. Requires the Secretary to develop guidelines to do away with artificial barriers to employment and advancement. Title IV: General Provisions - Prohibits financial assistance under any program of this Act unless such assistance agreement prohibits employment discrimination, unless participants are protected by appropriate health and safety standards, unless the program contributes to occupational development or upward mobility, and unless the program makes appropriate provision for youth. Excepts veterans benefits from the determination of a person's need under this Act. Makes family planning services to trainees voluntary. Allows States to enter into agreements with themselves to facilitate compliance with this Act. Establishes penalties for embezzlement, theft, and misapplication of funds authorized by this Act. Title V: Authorizations and Allocations - Authorizes necessary approprations to carry out this Act for fiscal years 1974-1977, of which amounts $250,000,000 in fiscal 1974 and $500,000,000 in fiscal 1975 shall be for carrying out public employment programs under title II. Limits to 20 percent the amount of appropriations to be used for title III. Title VI: National Institute for Manpower Policy - Establishes, in the Executive Office of the President, a National Institute for Manpower Policy to: (1) formulate recommendations for a coherent national manpower policy; (2) examine and evaluate the effectiveness of any Federally-assisted education, training, or manpower development programs; and (3) examine and evaluate major Federal programs which are intended to contribute to achieving major objectives of existing manpower and related legislation. Provides that the Institute shall annually issue a report to the President and the Congress of its proceedings, findings, and recommendations. Authorizes for fiscal year 1974, and for each succeeding year, such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this title.
United States · United States Congress · 18 October 1973
Comprehensive Manpower Act - Title I: Comprehensive Manpower Services - States that it is the purpose of this title to establish a comprehensive manpower services program, which shall include development and creation of job opportunities and training, education, and other services individuals need to secure and retain employment. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to make financial assistance available to prime sponsors so that they can carry out a comprehensive manpower program. Defines prime sponsors as States and units of local government. Requires seeking assistance to submit comprehensive manpower plans before receiving such assistance. Directs that such plans shall provide for cooperation of all appropriate State agencies. Requires States seeking to be prime sponsors to establish Manpower Services Councils to be composed of representatives of units of local governments which have comprehensive manpower plans and a representatives from the State vocational education agency and the public employment service. Requires the Councils to monitor the programs of prime sponsors. Allows judicial review of the Secretary's decisions regarding acceptability of comprehensive manpower plans. States that weekly allowances for persons receiving services under this title shall be at rates prescribed by the Secretary which shall, together with the trainee's wages or unemployment compensation, at least equal the minimum wage for a 40-hour week. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to State vocational education boards to assist them in their services. Title II: Public Employment Programs - Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to make financial assistance available in areas of substantial unemployment to provide transitional employment in needed public service jobs and training and manpower services related to such employment enabling persons to move into other employment or training. Defines eligible applicants for such assistance as prime sponsors and Indian tribes on reservations which include substantial unemployment. Requires applications for such assistance to: (1) assure special consideration to filling jobs providing for advancement and continuous employment by providing training and manpower services; (2) assure special consideration to post-1954 Korea and Vietnam veterans; (3) describe how participants will be selected; (4) describe jobs to be filled and salaries; (5) assure that the program employs only unemployed persons; and (6) assure that jobs funded under this title are in addition to those that would otherwise be funded. Directs the Secretary, where an Indian Tribe is unable to submit such an application, to assist in its preparation and submission and in implementation of the program. Prohibits financial assistance if a program does not result in an increase in employment opportunities; does not pay usual fringe benefits; does not contribute to occupational development or upward mobility of participants; does not provide for reports enabling evaluation of the comprehensive effectiveness programs; and does not discriminate because of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, political affiliation, or beliefs. Requires the Secretary to annually report in detail to the Congtess on the effectiveness of this title. Title III: Special Federal Responsibilities - Authorizes the Secretary to use funds under this title to provide additional manpower services to segments of the population in particular need, including youth, inmates, and older workers. Directs the Secretary to establish a nationally administered comprehensive manpower services program for Indians, Alaska natives, and migrant and seasonal workers. Transfers the duties of Job Corps director to the Secretary of Labor. Authorizes comprehensive work and training programs for low-income, high-unemployment urban areas and rural areas with high out-migration to cities. Describes special programs that may be established for youth who are low-income, unemployed, and undertrained. Directs the Secretary to establish a comprehensive program of manpower research to solve manpower problems, and programs of experimental and demonstration projects to test effectiveness of solutions. Directs the Secretary to develop a comprehensive system of labor market information, including job opportunities, labor supplies, and occupational outlook. Authorizes the Secretary to establish a computerized job bank program. Requires the Secretary to continuously evaluate programs under this Act and compare their effectiveness. Requires the Secretary to develop guidelines to do away with artificial barriers to employment and advancement. Title IV: General Provisions - Prohibits financial assistance under any program of this Act unless such assistance agreement prohibits employment discrimination, unless participants are protected by appropriate health and safety standards, unless the program contributes to occupational development or upward mobility, and unless the program makes appropriate provision for youth. Excepts veterans benefits from the determination of a person's need under this Act. Makes family planning services to trainees voluntary. Allows States to enter into agreements with themselves to facilitate compliance with this Act. Establishes penalties for embezzlement, theft, and misapplication of funds authorized by this Act. Title V: Authorizations and Allocations - Authorizes necessary appropriations to carry out this Act (except for title II) for fiscal 1974-1977, of which amounts $250,000,000 in fiscal 1974, $500,000,000 in fiscal 1975, and such sums as may be necessary for the next two years shall be for carrying out public employment programs under title II. Limits to 20 percent the amount of appropriations to be used for title III. Title VI: National Institute for Manpower Policy - Establishes, in the Executive Office of the President, a National Institute for Manpower Policy to: (1) formulate recommendations for a coherent national manpower policy; (2) examine and evaluate the effectiveness of any Federally-assisted education, training, or manpower development programs; and (3) examine and evaluate major Federal programs which are intended to contribute to achieving major objectives of existing manpower and related legislation. Provides that the Institute shall annually issue a report to the President and the Congress of its proceedings, findings, and recommendations. Authorizes for fiscal year 1974, and for each succeeding year, such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this title.
United States · United States Congress · 18 October 1973
Metric Conversion Act - Establishes a National Metric Conversion Board to implement the change of the United States to the metric system by devising and carrying out a program of encouragement, coordination and public education. Requires the Board to consult with industry, commerce, science, consumers, engineering, education, labor, State and local governments, foreign governments, and such others as are deemed appropriate in carrying out its duties. Requires the Board, within 12 months after the appropriation of funds to carry out this Act, to develop and submit to the Secretary of Commerce, for transmittal to the President and Congress, a plan to convert to the metric system. Provides that such plan will be implemented within 60 days unless disapproved by Congress. Authorizes the Board to hold hearings and enter into contracts. Provides that an executive director shall be responsible for carrying out the Board's duties. Authorizes appropriations necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 October 1973
Declares it to be the sense of the House that the President, acting in accordance with the announced policy of the United States Government to maintain Israel's deterrent strength, and under existing authority, should continue to transfer to Israel the Phantom aircraft and other equipment in the quantities needed by Israel to repel the attack and to offset the military equipment and supplies furnished to the Arab States by the Soviet Union.
United States · United States Congress · 17 October 1973
Makes it the sense of Congress that Alexander Solzhenitsyn and Andrey Sakharov should be offered honorary U.S. citizenship so as to manifest the support of the American people for the efforts of the oppressed Soviet people to live in freedom.
United States · United States Congress · 15 October 1973
Directs the Postal Service to maintain a rural delivery service for the free delivery of mail serving, as nearly as may be practicable, the entire rural population of the United States and its territories and possessions. Provides for the conditions to be met in the providing of such service. (Amends 39 U.S.C. 403, 3661)
United States · United States Congress · 15 October 1973
Makes it the sense of Congress that all citizens of the United States are urged to conserve energy by reducing the temperature at their homes and places of work by two degrees for the duration of the coming cold season.
United States · United States Congress · 3 October 1973
Employee Benefit Security Act - Title I: Fiduciary Responsibility and Disclosure - Provides that this title shall apply to any employee benefit plan if it is established or maintained by any employer engaged in commerce or in any industry or activity affecting commerce, or by any industry or activity affecting commerce. Provides that the administrator of an employee benefit plan shall cause to be published in accordance with this Act to each participant or beneficiary covered thereunder a description of the plan and an annual financial report. States that such description shall be published within 120 days after such plan is established and shall be written in a manner calculated to be understood by the average plan participant. Provides that an annual report shall be published with respect to any employee beneift plan to which this title applies. Sets forth the information that shall be contained in such report. Provides that the administrator of any employee benefit plan subject to this Act shall file with the Secretary of Labor a copy of the plan description. States that the Secretary may reject any such filing after notice, hearing, and determination by the Secretary that such filing is incomplete for the purpose of this title. Requires the administrator of an employee pension benefit plan to furnish to any plan participant at least once each year a statement indicating: (1) whether or not such person has a nonforfeitable right to receive a benefit; (2) the amount of the benefits which have become nonforfeitable, or an estimate; and (3) the number of the priority under which such benefits would be distributed in the event of termination of the plan. Provides that the contents of the descriptions and regular annual reports filed with the Secretary pursuant to this title shall be public information. Provides for the bonding of persons who have fiduciary responsibilities under this title and of persons who handle funds or other property of an employee benefit plan. Sets forth the fiduciary responsibilities of the administrators of plans covered by this Act. Provides for the distribution of net assets of a pension benefit plan in the case of a plan's termination. Establishes an Advisory Council on Employee Welfare and Pension Benefit Plans to advise the Secretary with respect to the carrying out of this funcions under this title. Title II: Vesting - Provides that this title shall apply to any employee pension plan if it is established or maintained by an employer engaged in commerce or by such employer together with an employee organization representing employees engaged in commerce or in any industry or activity affecting commerce; or if such plan is established or maintained by any employer or by any employer together with any employee organization if, in the course of its activities, such plan, or indirectly, uses any means or instruments of transportation or communication in interstate commerce or the mails. Excludes from the coverage of this title any employee pension benefit plan if: it is administered by the Federal Government or by an agency or instrumentality of the Federal Government; it is established and maintained outside the United States primarily for the benefit of persons who are not citizens of the United States; or it provides contributions or benefits for a sole proprietor or, in the case of a partnership, a partner who owns more than 10 percent of either the capital interest or the profits in such partnership. Specifies that no pension plan subject to this title may provide as a condition of eligibility a period of service longer than 1 year or age higher than 25 years. Establishes certain nonforfeitable rights on the part of employees to receive benefits. Stipulates that in computing the period of service under a plan, the employee's entire service with the contributing employer must be considered, except in specified instances. Title III: Funding - Provides that this title applies to the same employee benefit pension plans as does title II and excluded from coverage, in addition to those plans excluded under title II, any plan which has a fixed contribution rate and does not provide an amount expected to be paid as a fixed benefit and any plan which is a profit-sharing plan providing benefits at or after retirement. Requires pension plans subject to this title to provide for contributions to the plan in amounts necessary to meet an amount equal to the normal cost since inception of the plan plus interest on any unfunded past service costs and to maintain a minimum ratio of assets to vested liabilities according to a schedule. Provides that when the contribution to a pension plan fall below the necessary amount, the administrator shall take such steps as are necessary to bring the level of funding into conformity with the benefits offered by the plan. States that no pension plan may merge, consolidate with, or transfer its assets to any other plan unless participants in both plans would receive a termination benefit immediately after such action which is equal to or greater than the termination benefit he would receive immediately before such action. Title IV: Plan Termination Insurance - Establishes the Private Pension Plan Termination Insurance Program which shall be administered by the Secretary of Labor. Requires every plan subject to this title to maintain plan termination insurance to cover unfunded vested liabilities. Authorizes the Secretary to provide such insurance. Provides that the insurance program shall insure participants and beneficiaries of those plans registered under this Act against loss of benefits derived from vested rights which arise from the termination of such plans. States that, upon registration with the Secretary, each plan shall pay a uniform assessment to the insurance program as prescribed by the Secretary to cover the administrative costs of the insurance program. Requires each registered pension plan to pay an annual premium for insurance at uniform rates established by the Secretary based upon the amount of unfunded vested liabilities subject to insurance. Sets limits for such premium for three years and allows discretion to the Secretary in determining it subsequently. Requires notice to the Secretary of plan termination and allows him to prescribe how funds of the plan shall be wound up and liquidated. States that persons who terminate a plan with intent to avoid the purposes of this act or in violation of this Act shall be personally liable for losses incurred thereby to the Pension Benefit Insurance Fund. Establishes a separate fund for pension benefit insurance to be known as the Pension Benefit Insurance Fund which shall be available to the Secretary without fiscal year limitation for the purposes of this title. Requires the Secretary to administer the fund. Title V: General Provisions - Establishes a Variation Appeals Board which shall hear and determine appeals from decisions denying grants of variations in accordance with procedures promulgated by the Secretary pursuant to regulation. Directs the Secretary to undertake research studies relating to pension plans. Provides penalties for violations of this Act. Requires the Secretary to submit an annual report to the Congress covering his administration of this Act for preceding year. Makes it unlawful for any person to discharge, fine, suspend, expel, discipline, or discriminate against a participant or beneficiary for exercising any right to which he is entitled under the provisions of the plan or this Act; or for any person through the use of fraud, force, or violence, or threat of the use of force or violence, to restrain, coerce, intimidate, or attempt to restrain, coerce, or intimidate any participant or beneficiary for the purpose of interfering with or preventing the exercise of any right to which he is or may become entitled under the plan, or this Act. Requires every administrator of a pension plan to which title II or III applies shall file with the Secretary an application for registration of such plan. States that if at any time the Secretary determines that a plan required to qualify under this title is not qualified or is no longer qualified for registration under this title, he shall notify the administrator, setting forth the deficiency or deficiencies in the plan or in its administration or operations and provide a reasonable time within which to remove such deficiency or deficiencies. If the Secretary thereafter determines that the deficiency or deficiencies have been removed, he shall issue or continue in effect the certificate, as the case may be. Provides that if he determines that the deficiency or deficiences have not been removed, he shall enter an order denying or canceling the certificate of registration. States that the Secretary may petition any district court of the United States for an order requiring the employer or other person responsible for the administration of such plan to comply with the requirements of this Act as will qualify such plan for registration or compel or recover the payment of required contributions, assessments, premiums, fees, or other moneys. Declares it to be the express intent of Congress that the provisions of titles II and III shall supersed any and all laws of the States as they may relate to the vesting of participant's benefits in employee benefit plans, the funding requirements for employee benefit plans or the adequacy of financing of employee benefit plans.
United States · United States Congress · 2 October 1973
Requires the President to exercise his authority, under the Economic Stabilization Act of 1970, to mandatorily allocate petroleum products on the thirtieth day following enactment of this Act. Requires the President to report to the Congress within fifteen days of enactment on the plan to be used for such allocation.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1973
Provides that in the determination of the annual income of recipients of vetetans' pensions and dependency and indemnity compensation the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs shall not reduce the amount of such pension or compensation because of increases in monthly social security benefits under Public law 92-336. (Adds 38 U.S.C. 415(g)(4) 503(d))
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 1973
Multiprotection of Employee Retirement Income and Tax Act (MERIT Act) - Title I: Fiduciary Responsibility and Disclosure - States that this title shall apply to any employee benefit plan if it is established or maintained: (1) by any employer engaged in commerce or in any industry or activity affecting commerce, or (2) by any employee organization in which employees engaged in commerce or in any industry or activity affecting commerce, or (3) by both. Requires that a description of any employee benefit plan shall be furnished to the Secretary of the Treasury, participants in such plan, and the beneficiaries within one hundred and twenty days after such plan becomes subject to this Act. Directs the administrator of an employee benefit plan to engage an independent qualified public accountant to conduct an examination of the books and records of the plan as may be necessary to enable him to form an opinion as to whether the financial statement required to be filed under this Act is accurate. Sets forth the requirements for such financial statements. Requires the administrator of any employee benefit plan subject to this Act to file with the Secretary a copy of the plan description at least once every five years, except that if there is any material modification in the terms of the plan, such description shall be furnished not later than one hundred and twenty days after the change takes effect. Provides penalties for violations of the provisions of this Act. States that civil actions may be brought under this Act by the Secretary or any participant or beneficiary in any court of competent jurisdiction, State or Federal. States that the contents of the descriptions and reports filed with the Secretary pursuant to this Act shall be public information, and the Secretary may publish any such information and data. Sets forth procedures for the termination and distribution of assets of the pension plans established under this Act. Establishes an Advisory Council on Employee Welfare and Pension Benefit Plans. States that it shall be the duty of the Council to advise the Secretary with respect to the carrying out of his functions under this Act, and to submit to the Secretary recommendations with respect thereto. Title II: Vesting and Eligibility Requirements - Requires every pension plan subject to this Act to provide nonforfeitable pension benefits in accordance with specified rules. Provides that the benefits provided under the terms of a pension plan shall not be capable of assignment or alienation. Provides procedures for distribution of nonforfeitable benefits to participants who terminate coverage under the plan at or before age 65. Title III: Funding - States that the minimum contribution to any pension plan for each plan year shall be a contribution which results in the plan having no accumulated funding deficiency at the end of such plan year. Requires the administrator of the plan to file with the Secretary a funding status report. Establishes standards under which the Secretary may grant permission for a variance from the funding requirements of this Act. Title IV: Registration, Enforcement, and Miscellaneous Provisions - Requires every administrator of a pension plan to file with the Secretary an application for registration of such plan. States that such application shall be in such form and shall be accompanied by such documents as shall be prescribed by regulation of the Secretary. States that if at any time the Secretary determines that a plan required to qualify under this title is not qualified or is no longer qualified for registration he shall notify the administrator of the deficiency or deficiencies in the plan. States that if the Secretary determines that the deficiency or deficiencies have not been removed within a reasonable time, he shall enter an order denying or canceling the certificate of registration. Establishes a Variation Appeal Board to hear and determine appeals from such decisions of the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to submit annually a report to the Congress covering his administration of this Act for the preceding year. Authorizes the Secretary to establish and maintain within the Internal Revenue Service an Office of Employee Organizations. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to enable the Secretary to carry out his functions and duties under this Act. Title V: Internal Revenue Code Amendments - Provides a tax deduction for retirement savings under the Internal Revenue Code. Sets forth requirements for a trust created or organized in the United States to constitute a qualified individual account under the Internal Revenue Code. Makes provisions for an excise tax on individual retirement accounts. Establishes an excise tax on prohibited pension, profit sharing, and stock bonus plans.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1973
Fair Labor Standards Amendments - Provides for an increase in the minimum wage to $2.30 a hour over a specified period for employees covered before 1966, nonagricultural employees covered in 1966 and 1973, and agricultural employees. States that such increase shall not apply to employees in Puerto Rico or the Virgin Islands, of the United States or of the government of the Virgins Islands; of a hotel, motel, or restaurant; or of any other retail or service establishment engaged in the preparation of food. Establishes the minimum wage rate for such employees as equal to that of employees in States, as prescribed under this Act. Provides for the appointment of a special industry committee to recommended for employees in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, the highest minimum wage rates. Includes Federal and States employees in the minimum wage coverage and defines such employees. Establishes minimum wage rates for domestic service employees Excludes from overtime rates specified tobacco employees. Exempts for two years telegraph agency employees from the maximum hours provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. Establishes overtime rate requirements for seafood canning and processing employees; nursing home employees; hotel, motel, and restaurant employees; salesmen, partsmens, and mechanics; food service employees; bowling employees; substitute parents for institutionalized children; cotton ginning and sugar processing employees; and employees of conglomerates. Establishes maximum hour requirement for seasonal industry employees, and local transit employees, and overtime rate requirements for local transit employees. Exempts from overtime rate requirements motion picture theatre employees and certain lumber and logging industry employees. Establishes special minimum wage rates for full-time students and persons under 18. Provides that the Secretary shall by regulation prescribe standards and requirements to insure that this subsection will not create a substantial probability of reducing the full-time employment opportunities of persons other than those to whom these minimum wage rate authorized by this subsection. Exempts specified agricultural workers from the child labor provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. Establishes a civil penalty for violations of the child labor provisions. Requires the Secretary to conduct studies on the justification or lack thereof for each of the special overtime rate exemptions and the economic effects of the application of such exemptions to such employees, and to submit a report of his findings and recommendations to the Congress with respect to the studies conducted not later than January 1, 1976. Provides that, except as otherwise specifically provided, the amendments made by this Act shall take effect on the first day of the second full months which begins after the date of the enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1973
Emergency Medical Services Systems Act - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to and enter into contracts with eligible entities for projects which include both studying the feasibility of establishing and operating an emergency medical services system, and planning the establishment and operation of such a system. Requires that the reports of the results of any study and planning project assisted under this Act shall be submitted to the Secretary and the Interagency Committee on Emergency Medical Services. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to and enter into contracts with eligible entities for the establishment and initial operation of emergency medical services systems. Sets forth the standards for such grants and contracts. States that, in considering applications which demonstrate exceptional need for financial assistance, the Secretary shall give special consideration to applications submitted for emergency medical services systems for rural areas. Directs the Secretary to make grants to and enter into contracts with eligible entities for projects for the expansion and improvement of emergency medical services systems, including the acquisition of equipment and facilities, the modernization of facilities, and other projects to expand and improve such systems. States that the amount of any grant or contract under this section for a project shall not exceed 50 percent of the cost of that project. Stipulates that the Secretary may make grants to public or private nonprofit entities, and enter into contracts with private entities and individuals, for the support of research in emergency medical techniques, methods, devices, and delivery. States that no grant may be made or contract entered into under this section for amounts in excess of $35,000, unless the application therefore has been recommended for approval by an appropriate peer review panel designated or established by the Secretary. Sets forth general provisions with respect to grants and contracts authorized under this Act. Establishes specified requirements for emergency medical services systems. Authorizes to be appropriated specified amounts for grants and contracts made pursuant to this Act for the fiscal years 1974, 1975, and 1976. Directs the Secretary to establish an Interagency Committee on Emergency Medical Services to evaluate the adequacy and technical soundness of all Federal programs and activities which relate to emergency medical services. Directs the Committee to make recommendations to the Secretary respecting the administration of contracts under this Act. Requires the Secretary to prepare and submit annually to the Congress a report on the administration of this Act. Directs the Secretary to make grants to and enter into contracts with schools of medicine, dentistry, osteopathy, and nursing and training centers for allied health professions, and other appropriate educational entities to assist in meeting the cost of training programs in the techniques and methods of providing emergency medical services. Authorizes to be appropriated $10,000,000 for the fiscal year 1974 for the purpose of making payments pursuant to grants and contracts under this section.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1973
Expresses the sense of Congress that it shall be the policy of the United States that the Government of the United States shall cease forthwith all consideration of aid, trade, diplomatic recognition, or any other form of communication, travel, or accomodation with the Democratic Republic of North Vietnam or the Viet Cong until such time as agreements relating to facilitating the location and care of graves of the dead, exhumation, and repatriation of the remains have been complied with to the fullest extent.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1973
National Energy Research and Development Act - Title I: National Energy Research And Development Program - Declares it to be the policy of the Congress to establish and maintain a national program of research and development in fuels and energy adequate to meet specified objectives. Establishes the National Energy Research and Development Board who's member's shall be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Sets forth the duties of Board, including: (1) to review the full range of Federal activities in and financial support for energy technologies and energy conservation, giving consideration to research and development being conducted by industry and other non-Federal entities, to determine the capability of ongoing research efforts to carry out the policies established by this Act and other relevant Federal policies, particularly the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969; and (2) to formulate a comprehensive energy research and development strategy for the Federal Government. Provides that in evaluating proposed opportunities for particular research and development undertakings pursuant to this title, the Board shall assign priority to types of projects listed in this title. Sets forth the powers of the Board. Authorizes the appropriation of $10,000,000 annually for the administrative expenses of the Board. Authorizes an appropriation not to exceed $250,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, and subject to annual congressional authorizations, $500,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, $750,000,000 for fiscal year 1976, $1,000,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $1,500,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and thereafter amounts such as Congress shall determine to carry out the provisions of this title with respect to energy research and development.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1973
Fire Prevention And Control Act - Declares it to be the finding of Congress that the federal government must help to develop sulutions to fire problems. States that the intention of Congress is to supplement existing programs of fire research, training, and education, and to encourage new and improved programs and activities by State and local governments. Title I: United States Fire Administration - Establishes, within the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the United States Fire Administration. Sets forth the duties of the Administration, including: (1) to survey the fire problem, evaluate progress in fire prevention, assess new problem areas, and to evaluate the cost; (2) to recommend actions to be taken by federal, state, and local governments and private organizations and individuals to improve fire prevention; (3) to act as a coordinator of studies of fire protection methods; (4) to cooperate with and render assistance to other federal departments, to all organizations in matters relating to fire prevention and control; and (5) to undertake research relating to fire prevention and control. Title II: National Fire Academy - Establishes, within the Administration, a National Fire Academy; (1) to facilitate specialized training in fire protection; (2) to assist State and local jurisdictions in planning and implementing fire protection programs; (3) to assist the dissemination of information on fire prevention and control; and (4) to encourage fire protection agencies to give greater attention to fire prevention measures. Directs the Academy to establish a National Fire Academy Advisory Board. Sets forth composition and compensation of Board members. Title III: National Fire Data System - Establishes within the Administration a National Fire Data System. Directs the System to collect data on fire injuries and deaths, property losses, and information concerning causes, locations, and numbers of fires, to be incorporated into an information retrieval system. Title IV: Research and Development - Sets forth the functions and responsibilities of the Administration, including to (1) evaluate the total area of fire research needs in the Federal, state, and local government sectors and the private sector; (2) sponsor and encourage research into promising but highly unconventional solutions to fire problems; and (3) encourage research on firefighting equipment and personal protective equipment for firefighters. Title V: Grants for State and Local Program Assistance - Directs the Administration to make grants to States for (1) the establishment and operation of state fire prevention and control planning agencies; and (2) for programs to improve and strengthen fire prevention and control. Sets forth the requirements a State plan must encompass in order to receive grants. Directs the allocation of funds appropriated to the Administration for the purpose of making grants. Title VI: Functions of Certain Other Federal Agencies - Expands the authorizations of the Secretary of Commerce to include specified fire research and safety programs. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish, within the National Institutes of Health, a program to augment current sponsorship of research on burns and burn treatment. Requires the Federal Insurance Administration to provide low-cost insured loans to homeowners and businessmen for the purpose of installing fire protection equipment. Title VII: Administrative Provisions - Grants the Administration specified powers in carrying out its functions including (1) the power to hold hearings; and (2) to use services of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Sets forth the procedure to be followed when an application for a grant has been rejected. Directs the Administration to carry out the programs of this Act during fiscal year 1974, and for the five succeeding fiscal years. Authorizes appropriations of $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, $50,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, and $128,000,000 for fiscal year 1976, and for succeeding fiscal years such sums as the Congress might authorize. Title VIII: General Provisions - Makes the provisions of this Act separable if one is found invalid.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1973
Foreign Dairy Quality Act - States that no dairy product shall be imported into the United States unless it has been inspected and found to be wholesome and unless the foreign farms and plants in which such products were produced, manufactured, or processed comply with all the inspection, grading and other standards comparable to domestic standards that are prescribed by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare pursuant to the provisions of this Act. Provides for a certificate issued by the exporting country assuring compliance with prescribed standards as to the quality of the milk form, plant facilities, equipment, and procedures used in the production and transportation of milk, and the production, manufacture, and processing of all imported dairy products. Requires all imported dairy products, after entry into the United States, to be subject to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, and other dairy product inspection Acts. Provides for cooperation between the Secretary and foreign governments as well as other executive departments in carrying out this Act, and authorizes necessary inspections and investigations. Prescribes a fine of not more than $1000 and imprisonment for not more than one year, or both, for violation of the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1973
Eliminates transactions entered into for agricultural purposes from the definition of a consumer credit transaction under the Truth in Lending Act. (Amends 15 U.S.C. 1602(n))
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1973
Authorizes the Librarian of Congress to establish and conduct seminars for freshman members of the Congress in two similar series. Schedules the first one for November 15 until Thanksgiving in each year that a general election for the House of Representative is held. Schedules the second series for between December 1 and December 15. Authorizes the Librarian of Congress acting through the Director of the Congressional Research Service, to prepare a curriculum for the series of seminars under this Act. Allows each person attending seminars expenses for travel, accomodations food. Authorizes necessary appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 1973
American Folklife Preservation Act - Creates an American Folklife Center in the Library of Congress. Provides that the center shall be subject to the supervision and direction of a board of trustees. Provides that such board shall be composed of four members appointed by the President, eight members appointed by the Librarian of Congress, the Librarian of Congress ex officio and the director of the center ex officio. Authorizes the centers to establish and implement a program of contracts, grants, revitalize and scholarships to preserve, protect, revitalize and disseminate American folklife traditions and arts. Provides that no payment shall be made pursuant to this Act to carry out any research or training over a period in excess of two years. States that such research or training may be extended to a period not to exceed five years with the concurrance of at least two-thirds of the members of the board. Provides that no former employee of the Federal government shall be eligible to receive any grant or other assistance under this Act in the two year period following the termination of such employment. Requires the center to submit to the Library of Congress, for inclusion in its annual report to the Congress, an annual report of its operations under this Act. Authorizes such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 1973
Transfers the supervision and administration of Saint Elizabeths Hospital from the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to the Commissioner of the District of Columbia, together with the statutory authority of the Secretary respecting the hospital and lands and buildings of the hospital. Provides for the transfer of all employees of the hospital with all rights, benefits, and privileges. Authorizes necessary appropriations in order to pay the District of Columbia part of the cost of operating and maintaining the hospital during the period of its integration into the programs of the District for the protection of mental health. Authorizes appropriations of such sums as may be necessary for remodeling and construction and repair at the hospital, except that the aggregate of such appropriations shall not exceed $43,000,000.
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 1973
Reduces the retirement annuity of a Member of Congress by 10 percent for each full year by which the age of the Member at the time of retirement exceeds 70.
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 1973
Multiprotection of Employee Retirement Income and Trust Act - Declares it to be the policy of this Act to protect interstate commerce and the interests of participants in employee benefit plans and their beneficiaries, by requiring the disclosure and reporting to participants and beneficiaries of financial and other information with respect thereto, by establishing standards of fiduciary conduct, responsibility, and obligation upon all persons who exercise any powers of control, management, or dispositions with respect to employee benefit funds or have authority or responsibility to do so, or have authority or responsibility in the administration of employee benefit plans, and by providing for appropriate remedies, sanctions, and ready access to the Federal courts. Title I: Fiduciary Responsibility and Disclosure - Provides that this title shall apply to any employee benefit plan if it is established or maintained by any employer engaged in commerce or in any industry or activity affecting commerce, or both. Provides that the administrator of an employee benefit plan shall cause to be published in accordance with this Act to each participant or beneficiary covered thereunder a description of the plan and an annual financial report. States that such description shall be published within 270 days after such plan is established and shall be written in a manner calculated to be understood by the average plan participant. Provides that an annual report shall be published with respect to any employee benefit plan to which this title applies. Sets forth the information that shall be contained in such report. Provides that the administrator of any employee benefit plan subject to this Act shall file with the Secretary of Labor a copy of the plan description and each annual report. States that the Secretary may reject any such filing after notice, hearing, and determination by the Secretary that such filing is incomplete for the purpose of this title. Sets forth criminal penalties for intentional violations of this title. Provides that civil actions may be brought under this title by a participant or beneficiary: (1) for personal liability to such participant or beneficiary for failure to provide information required under this Act; or (2) to recover benefits due him under the terms of his plan or to clarify his rights to future benefits. Authorizes such actions by: (1) the Secretary, or by a participant, beneficiary or fiduciary, for appropriate relief under the fudiciary responsibility provisions of this Act; or (2) by the Secretary to enjoin any act or practice which appears to him to violate any provision of this title. Provides that the contents of the descriptions and regular annual reports filed with the Secretary pursuant to this title shall be public information. Provides for the bonding of persons who have fiduciary responsibilities under this title and of persons who handle funds or other property of an employee benefit plan. Sets forth the fiduciary responsibilities of the administrators of plans covered by this Act. Sets forth provisions governing the distribution of net assets upon the termination of a pension plan. Establishes an Advisory Council on Employee Welfare and Pension Benefit Plans to advise the Secretary with respect to the carrying out of his functions under this title. Title II: Vesting - Provides that this title shall apply to any employee pension benefit plan if it is established or maintained by an employer engaged in commerce or in any industry or activity affecting or by such employer together with any employee organization representing employees engaged in commerce or in any industry or activity affecting commerce; or if such plan is established or maintained by any employer or by any employer together with any employee organization and if, in the course of its activities, such plan, directly or indirectly, uses any means or instruments of transportation or communication in interstate commerce or the mails. Excludes from the coverage of this title any employee pension benefit plan if: it is administered by the Federal Government or by an agency or instrumentality of the Federal Government: it is established for the benefit of self-employed individual or owner-employees; it covers not more than 25 participants; it is established and maintained outside the United States primarily for the benefit of persons who are not citizens of the United States and the situs of the fund is maintained outside the United States; or such plan is unfunded and established primarily to provide deferred compensation for a select group of management employees. Specifies that no pension plan subject to this title may provide as a condition of eligibility a period of service longer than 1 year or age higher than 25 years. Establishes certain nonforfeitable rights on the part of employees to receive benefits in accordance with specified categories and requirements. Prohibits any plan from providing for forfeiture of accrued employee beenfits. Stipulates that in computing the period of service under a plan, the employee's entire service with the contributing employer must be considered, except in specified instances. Title III: Funding - Provides that this title applies to the same employee benefit pension plans as does title II and excludes from coverage those plans excluded under title II. States that the minimum contribution to any pension plan for each plan year beginning after the effective date of this title shall be equal to the excess of: (1) the sum of the minimum standard contributions for each plan year beginning after the effective date of this title, over (2) the total of the amounts contributed to or under the plan for each of the preceding plan years beginning after the effective date of this title. Requires the administrator of the plan to file an annual statement with the Secretary containing the following information: (1) the numbers of years the plan has been in effect; (2) the date and amount of the contribution made by the plan for the plan year for which the report is filed and contributions for prior plan years not previously reported; and (3) the amount of the minimum contribution, the normal costs, accrued liabilities, present value of accrued nonforfeitable benefits, value of assets, an identification of other benefits, and a statement of the other facts and actuarial assumptions used in the calculation of the minimum contribution under this title. Provides that whenever the required payment cannot be made by the employer or the other contributing parties, the Secretary may waive part or all of the minimum contributions for that fiscal year, and prescribe an additional period of not more than 5 years for the amortization of the funding deficiency occurring in that fiscal year. Prohibits any merger with another pension plan unless a qualified actuary: (1) determines that each participant in each plan would receive a termination benefit equal to that which he would have received before the merger; and (2) includes such determination in the next year's funding status report. Title IV: Registration, Enforcement, and Miscellaneous Provisions - Requires the registration with the Secretary of plans covered under this Act. Empowers the Secretary to petition any U.S. district court having jurisdiction to require compliance with the registration provisions of this title. Sets forth provisions concerning civil enforcement of the vesting and funding titles of this Act. Establishes a Variation Appeal Board to hear and determine appeals from decisions denying variations under titles II and III. Authorizes the Secretary to undertake research studies on: (1) the effects of this Act upon the provisions and costs of pension plans; (2) the role of private pensions in meeting the economic security needs of the nation; and (3) the operation of public and private pension plans. Provides for cooperation and mutual assistance by other Federal agencies and departments. States that it shall be unlawful for any person to discharge, fire, or discriminate against a participant or beneficiary for exercising any right extended under this Act. Stipulates that titles II and III of this Act supersede any and all State and local laws relating to the vesting, eligibility, and funding responsibilities of persons acting on behalf of employee pension benefit plans.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 1973
Expresses the finding of Congress that an adequate supply of pure, safe human blood is essential to the welfare of the Nation. Establishes the National Blood Bank program within the Department of Health, Education and Welfare. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare to perform enumerated duties to assure an adequate supply of blood throughout the Nation. Establishes an Advisory Council to make recommendations to the Secretary regarding: (1) policy goals of the program; (2) motivation and recognition of blood donors; (3) reciprocal transactions between national blood bank systems; and (4) removal of blood purchasing costs from health insurance plan coverage. Declares that only class A blood banks may maintain blood deposit or pledge programs in advance of their needs. Provides criminal penalties for persons violating the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1973
Constitutional Amendment - Extends the term of office of the President and the Vice President to six years, and limits eligibility to a single term in office. Allows a person who has been elected a Vice President for any term to be eligible for election as President at a later term. Provides that this article shall take effect on the first day of February following its ratification, but shall not affect the duration of the term of office of President and Vice President in which such day occurs.
United States · United States Congress · 19 June 1973
Authorizes the President to issue annually a proclamation designating the fourth Sunday of November of each year as "National Grandparents' Day". Calls upon the people of the United States and interested groups and organizations to observe such day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 1973
Budget Control Act - Title I: Changes in Rules of House and Senate - Establishes in the House of Representatives a Committee on the Budget consisting of 21 members: 5 members from the Committee on Appropriations, 5 members from the Committee on Ways and Means, and 11 members who are members of other Committees. Provides for the selection of the chairman of the Committee. Refers to the Committee matters relating to: (1) the establishment of an overall limitation on budget outlays, and an overall limitation on new budget authority; (2) the determination of the overall level of Federal revenues, and the overall level of the public debt of the United States; (3) the determination of the appropriate level of surplus or deficit in the budget in the light of economic conditions and; (4) the allocation of the overall limitation on budget outlays, and the overall limitation on new budgetary authority. Requires the Committee to report during each regular session of Congress at least two concurrent resolutions concerning matters referred to the Committee and to make continuing studies of the effect on budget outlays of existing and proposed legislation and to report the results of these studies to the House of Representatives. Establishes in the United States Senate a Committee on the Budget consisting of 17 members: 4 members from the Committee on Appropriations, 4 members from the Committee on Finance, and 9 members who are members of other Committees. Grants to the Senate Committee the same matters for consideration and the same duties as the House Committee. Declares that annually, on or before July 1, Congress shall complete action on a concurrent resolution setting forth the congressional budget for the United States Government for the fiscal year beginning January 1 of the next year. States that the concurrent resolution shall include with respect to budget outlays and with respect to new budget authority: (1) a general contingency reserve (for allocation only by a subsequent concurrent resolution on the budget) for possible new legislation (including enlargements of existing programs and activities); and (2) an emergency reserve (in amounts which do not exceed 2 percent of the amount of budget outlays otherwise allocated to the Committees on Appropriations and 2 percent of the amount of new budget authority otherwise allocated to such committees) which shall be available only for allocation by the Committees on Appropriations to specific programs and activities (or to subcommittees) to meet emergencies and other unforeseen contingencies. Provides for other matters which may be dealt with in the concurrent resolution. Sets forth a timetable for the first concurrent resolution on the budget for the fiscal year. Requires Congress to adopt a final concurrent resolution on the budget before adjourning and provides for consideration of concurrent resolution to be expedited. Declares that a tax surcharge is required where the budget deficit will be greater, or the surplus will be smaller, than that determined to be appropriate. States the requirements for amendments to concurrent resolutions. Provides that legislation dealing with the congressional budget must be handled by budget committees and that the concurrent resolution on budget must be adopted before appropriations and changes in revenues and public debt limit are made. Sets forth the requirements for legislation and amendments providing new budget authority, and declares that budget authority legislation may be required to contain outlay limitations. Places limitations on new permanent budget authority and on new spending authority. Requires the legislative committees to authorize the enactment of new budget authority before the beginning of the fiscal year. Authorizes the House Committee on Appropriations and the Senate Committee on Appropriations to consider and to report legislation rescinding budget authority. Provides for technical and conforming amendments to the Rules of the House of Representatives and to the Standing Rules of the United States Senate, as well as amendments to the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 and 1970. Title II: Legislative Budget Director and Staff - Establishes a Joint Legislative Budget Staff headed by a Legislative Budget Director appointed by the record vote of a majority of the members of the Committee on the Budget of each House, and provides for staffing and compensation. Authorizes the Legislative Budget Director to secure directly from any executive department or instrumentality of the government, information, data, estimates, and statistics relating to the function of the Joint Legislative Budget Staff. Directs the Joint Legislative Budget Staff to develop methods of using computers and other techniques for the analysis of information to improve not only the quantative but the qualitative evaluation of budgetary requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1973
Provides that educational assistance afforded to eligible veterans under the Veterans' Educational Assistance Chapter shall remain available until used (presently available until 8 years after discharge). (Amends 38 U.S.C. 1662)
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1973
Specifies the circumstances under which the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs may pay for care and treatment rendered to veterans by private hospitals in emergencies. (Adds 38 U.S.C. 625(a))
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1973
Alaskan Petroleum Transmission Act - Finds that, since energy sources are in short supply, the Congress should act to hasten recovery of underground petroleum on the North Slope of Alaska. Declares it to be the national policy that no decision be made for recovery of petroleum from the North Slope of Alaska until Congress has opportunity to review such plans. Directs the Comptroller General of the United States to conduct a thorough study of the two principal alternative routes for recovering petroleum reserves from the North Slope of Alaska. Outlines such routes as: (1) a trans-Alaska pipeline from the North Slope to Valdez, Alaska, and then by ocean-going oil tanker taken to the west coast of the United States; and (2) an overland pipeland from the North Slope across northeastern Alaska and through Canada to the midwest section of the United States. Directs the comptroller to report his findings and conclusions to the Congress no later than January 1, 1974. Specifies the considerations to be used in making the study. Authorizes the Comptroller to enter into contracts with the National Academy of Sciences in conducting the study, and to secure information from any Federal department, agency or instrumentality. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior and other appropriate Federal officials to enter into negotiations with Canada to determine the feasibility of a right-of-way across Canadian territory for petroleum transmission facilities from the North Slope of Alaska. Directs the Secretary to report the results of their negotiations to the Congress and the Comptroller no later than December 1, 1973. Requires all reports to the Congress under this Act be filed with the Clerk of the House of Representatives and the Secretary of the Senate. Prohibits any order or rule of the Secretary of the Interior , or any other Federal agency or officer of the United States, granting a right-of-way, easement, or special land use permit on any Federal land for the construction and operation of a pipeline for the transmission of petroleum from the North Slope in Alaska from taking effect until the 60-day period beginning on the date the Comptroller files his final report. Allows the Secretary to grant such right-of-way or easements after the 60-day period as he deems necessary for construction of a petroleum transmission system along a route determined by the Comptroller to be the better of two principal alternative routes, unless Congress has disapproved such a route by concurrent resolution. Allows such rights-of-way or easements be granted for such width as the Secretary determines necessary without regard to the National Environmental Policy Act. Provides that action of the Secretary under this section shall not be reviewable by any court of the United States or in any State court. Outlines the congressional procedure in making a concurrent resolution concerning the proposed route and in referring the matter to committee. Limits debate on the resolution to no more than 10 hours. Authorizes necessary funds to carry out the Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1973
Provides that appointments to the offices of Director and Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget shall be subject to confirmation by the Senate.
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1973
Requires that future appointments to the offices of Director and Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Executive Director of the Domestic Council, Executive Secretary of the National Security Council, and Executive Director of the Council on International Economic Policy, shall be subject to confirmation by the Senate.