United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1975
Requires the Secretary of Defense to take such action as is necessary to insure that any member of the Armed Forces who is discharged shall receive a discharge certificate which shall indicate that such member was so discharged and which shall not bear any indication of the conditions under which such separation occured. States that the reason why such member was so separated (other than by reason of discharged dismissal pursuant to a sentence of a general or special court-martial) and all other records or documents pertaining to such reason or reasons shall be treated as confidential and shall not be made known to or otherwise released to any private person or any public agency (whether Federal, State, or local) without the prior written consent of the member concerned. Sets forth the conditions under which an enlisted member of the Armed Forces may be discharged under other than honorable conditions. Establishes procedures for military review panels in considering the dishonorable discharge of enlisted personnel. Requires military review panels to conduct hearings which afford the enlisted member concerned an opportunity to: (1) appear before the panel and present evidence in his own behalf; (2) be represented by counsel; (3) confront the witnesses against him; and (4) examine documentary and real evidence against him. States that the recommendation of a review panel appointed under the provisions of this Act for separation under other than honorable conditions may be appealed to an appeal board established by the Judge Advocate General concerned, or the General Counsel of the Department of Transportation, as appropriate. Authorizes the Secretaries concerned to prescribe regulations to carry out the provisions of this Act. Requires the Secretaries concerned, after consultation with the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs, to establish a number (but not less than ten) of regional boards of review throughout the United States. States that the function of the regional boards shall be to review the discharge or dismissal (other than a discharge or dismissal by a general or special court-martial) of any former member of an Armed Forces under the jurisdiction of the military department concerned. Provides that if a request for the review of a discharge or dismissal of any person who was discharged or dismissed from the Armed Forces within the fifteen-year period immediately preceding the effective date of this Act was filed before such effective date and such review resulted in no change to the discharge or dismissal, or no new discharge was issued, another request for review of that discharge or dismissal pursuant to this Act may be filed and such review shall be acted upon without prejudice, if such request for review is filed with the appropriate regional board of review within the one-year period immediately following such effective date.
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1975
States that whoever mails or causes to be mailed any solicitation for contributions for a charitable purpose shall include with such mailing information which shows the following: (1) the purpose of the solicitation and the use of the contribution to be solicited; (2) the need for the contribution proposed to be solicited, including the reasons and figures, if any, regardless of what funds are used for the payment of such expenses; (4) the portion of the contribution collected as a result of the solicitation which will remain available for application to the specific purpose of the solicitation; and (5) the amount of all contributions collected or received by such person, or by his agents or assigns, within the calendar year immediately preceding the date of the mailing, and the expenditure or use made of such contribution.
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1975
Establishes the Office of Inspector General in the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Provides that the Inspector General Shall be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Provides that the Inspector General shall investigate each program administered by the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare in order to determine if such program is administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations and to recommend corrections of deficiencies in such program. Requires the Inspector General to report annually to Congress and the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare. Provides that the Inspector General may secure any information that he deems necessary from any agency of the Federal Government. Gives the Inspector the power to hold hearings and issue subpenas as necessary to gather information. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1975
Defines the term "indirect source" under the Clear Air Act as meaning any facility, building or structure which attracts moble source activity that results in emmissions of a pollutant for which there is a national primary ambient air quality standard, including: (1) highways, (2) parking areas, and (3) office buildings. Requires that State implementation plans for national air quality standards must include measures such as land use and transportation controls which have been demonstrated as necessary to insure attainment of air quality standards. Provides that the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, before approving such measures, must take reasonable steps to minimize any burden some or adverse economic impact, as will as assuring that the measure will be used only to the extent necessary to insure the attainment and maintenance of primary air quality standards in the immediate vicinity of the direct source. Authorizes the Administrator to extend the 3 years period of time within which ambient air quality plans relating to indirect source emissions must be implemented if he determines that all reasonably available (1) emissions limitations, (2) schedules and timetables for compliance with such limitations, and (3) other measures not applicable to indirect sources, will be applied during such three year period.
United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1975
Provides that any implementation plan for primary and secondary ambient air quality standards submitted by a State pursuant to the Clear Air Act shall be approved by the Administration of the Environmental Protection Agency only if the state has conducted public hearings and permitted all interested persons to present their views on the proposed plan.
United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1975
States the declaration of the Congress that thousands of children were fathered in Vietnam by United States citizens during the course of the Vietnam conflict. States that the United States has a special responsibility to assist in facilitating the care and adoption of those children in South Vietnam whose parent is a United States citizen no longer providing parental care to the child. Provides that children qualifying under this Act shall be citizens of the United States. Requires the Department of State to make arrangements necessary to inform properly accredited adoption agencies in the United States of children potentially eligible for the benefits of this Act. Provides for placing such children with suitable parents in the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1975
Price Reduction Act - Repeals, under the Sherman Antitrust Act and the Federal Trade Commission Act, exemptions in the antitrust law relating to fair trade laws (also known as resale price maintenance or quality stabilization laws) which permit agreements prescribing minimum or stipulated prices for the resale of brand-name commodities.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1975
Cost Justification and Price Control Act - Requires that whenever a Federal regulatory requirement is applicable to any class of major corporations, and the Federal Trade Commission determines that such requirement may have a significant effect on the cost of production or of providing any goods or services provided by such class of major corporations, the Commission shall prescribe a rule (1) identifying such requirement, such class of corporations, and the goods and services the cost of which may be affected by such requirement, and (2) requiring such corporations to file specified reports. Requires that if a corporation is a member of class of corporations identified in such a rule and such corporation increases the price of any goods or services identified in such a rule, then before such price increase takes effect, such corporation shall file with the Commission a report specifying any change in unit costs, resulting from such Federal regulatory requirement, of the goods or services the price of which was increased. Provides that such report shall also contain an explanation of the reasons for the price increase. Provides that such report shall be available to the public and published in the Federal Register. Provides that any cost obligation incurred as a result of compliance with any Federal regulatory requirement may only be passed through by such corporation, or by any subsequent purchaser to any utlimate purchaser of such goods or services on a dollar-for-dollar basis. Provides that if a major corporation violates this Act (1) such corporation shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than $1,000,000 and (2) the Commission may commence an action in a district court of the United States to obtain a mandatory injunction requiring compliance by such corporation with the reporting requirements of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1975
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. Specifies the composition of the board, including: four members appointed by the President, eight members appointed by the Librarian of Congress, the Librarian of Congress and the director of the Center. Authorizes the Center 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, with specified exceptions. 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 Librarian of Congress, for inclusion in its annual report to the Congress, an annual report of its operations under this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Center to carry out the provisions of this Act $167,750 for fiscal year 1976, $710,000 for fiscal year 1977, and $1,716,000 for fiscal year 1978.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1975
Excludes any country which is located in North America, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean from provisions of the Trade Act of 1974 which exclude nations belonging to the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries from the benefits of the system of general tariff preferences.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1975
Creates a select committee to be composed of 15 members of the House of Representatives to be appointed by the Speaker, one of whom he shall designate as chairman. Directs the committee to conduct a full investigation and study of the nature and extent of natural gas and petroleum reserves within the territory and waters of the United States. Directs the committee to evaluate the potential for discovery of new reserves and the relationship of reserves to present patterns of distribution and supply as well as the impact of price regulation on such discovery and distribution of the products made from such reserves. Authorizes the committee to hold hearings, issue subpenas and conduct field investigations to carry out the studies required by this resolution. Requires the committee to file an interim and a final report on the results of its studies.
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1975
Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to purchase from one or more life insurance companies a policy or policies of mortgage protection life insurance on a group basis for veterans unable to obtain commercial life insurance because of a service- connected disablility. Sets forth the maximum amount of insurance under a policy provided under this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to deduct insurance premiums from any compensation or other cash benefits payable to veteran by the Veterans' Administration, and to pay such premiums to the insurers. States that any amount of insurance in force under this Act on the date of death of an insured veteran shall be paid only to the holder of the mortgage loan on the veteran's home as a credit toward loan indebtedness. Requires each policy purchased under this Act to provide for the following: (1) reinsurance with other insurers which meet the Administrator's criteria; (2) that the Administrator may discontinue a whole policy, or exclude from coverage loans made after a date fixed by him; (3) issuance to each insured veteran of a certificate setting forth the benefits to which he is entitled; (4) any other provisions necessary to carry out this Act; and (5) an annual accounting to the Administrator of the amount of premiums paid, the total of all mortality and other claim charges incurred, and the amount of the insurer's expenses and risk charges. States that insurance under this Act shall terminate upon whichover of the following events first occurs: (1) satisfaction of the veteran's indebtedness under the loan upon which the insurance is based; (2) the veteran's 70th birthday; (3) termination of the veteran's ownership of the property securing the loan; (4) discontinuance of payment of premiums by the veteran; or (5) discontinuance of the entire contract or agreement. (Adds 38 U.S.C. 791-95)
United States · United States Congress · 12 March 1975
Provides, under the Public Health Service Act, that medical facilities may be reimbursed by the Federal Government for emergency medical treatment given aliens unlawfully in the United States if such aliens are unable to pay the cost of such treatment or can pay only a part of the cost and the aliens or medical facilities which provided such treatment are not eligible under any public assistance program for payment of or reimbursement of such cost. Requires that an application for reimbursement be submitted to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. Sets forth criteria for determining whether such an application shall be approved.
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1975
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should convene immediately a meeting of the heads of all appropriate Federal departments and agencies for the purpose of taking such steps as may be necessary to prevent Arab discrimination against American business enterprises which have Jewish individuals serving in positions of major responsibility or which do business with Israel.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1975
Emergency Middle-Income Housing Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to reduce interest rates on home mortgages for middle- income families by making, and contracting to make, periodic interest reduction payments, interest rate differential payments and by purchasing below-market-interest-rate mortgages. Defines terms as used in this Act. Provides that the aggregate amount of mortgages assisted under this Act shall not exceed $12,000,000,000. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to carryout the provisions of this Act. Sets forth the guidelines the Secretary shall follow in allocating such assistance. Specifies that the Secretary shall take steps to encourage the construction or sale of dwelling units which he determines will contribute to the conservation of land and energy resources. Directs that authority to enter into such financial assistance obligations as provided in this Act shall expire June 30, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1975
Defers approval of a loan to the Korea Electric Company of the Republic of Korea by the Export-Import Bank for the construction of a nuclear powerplant pending review by Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1975
Expresses the sense of Congress concerning the 1976 Pacific 21 Exhibition and Festival. Directs the President to issue a proclamation calling upon the States and foreign nations of the Pacific to participate.
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1975
Allows a business tax deduction under the Internal Revenue Code for expenses incurred for the care of one or more dependents if such care is for the purpose of enabling the taxpayer to carry on a trade or business, including the performance of services by the taxpayer as an employee.
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1975
Authorizes, under the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act, the donation of surplus Federal property to child care centers. Defines the term "child care center" for purposes of such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1975
Directs the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration to establish a National Center for the Prevention and Control of Rape. Directs the Administration to conduct a continuing study and evaluation of rape including the adequacy of existing Federal and State laws dealing with rape. Requires a study of the treatment of rape victims. Makes it the duty of the Center to: (1) develop and transmit to Congress annually specific recommendations for legislation dealing with the prevention, control, and treatment of rape; (2) develop guidelines for the operation of projects by private and public agencies dealing with the prevention, control, and treatment of rape; and (3) develop recommendations for legislation which can serve as a model to the States and localities in the reform of existing laws dealing with rape, with the goal of encouraging uniformity in the laws of such States and localities. Directs the Administrator, through the National Center for the Prevention and Control of Rape to make grants to private, nonprofit organizations and public agencies (determined by the Administration to be qualified) for the purpose of conducting model projects designed to prevent or control rape, or treat the victims of rape. Provides that such projects shall include, but not be limited to: (1) special rape investigation units established by State and local police departments; (2) special units for the treatment of rape victims in hospitals; (3) preventive programs, including public education on rape prevention and self-defense courses; and (4) rape crisis centers. Makes it a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not exceeding $1,000 or by imprisonment for up to one year, or both, to disclose records maintained under this Act without the consent of the individual to whom the record pertains. Defines the term "rape" as including any intentional, nonconsensual, criminal sexual assaults.
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1975
Land Use and Resource Covservation Act - Title I: Findings, Policy, Definitions - Sets forth the findings of Congress that there is a national interest in effective land use decision making in order to promote the general welfare, to secure a wise and balanced allocation of resources, to provide for the protection and enhancement of the environment, and to conserve energy. States that it is the policy of the Federal Government, in cooperation with the States, to encourage and support the establishment of effective land use planning and management programs which will assure that the lands in the Nation are used in ways that create and maintain conditions under which man and nature can exist in productive harmony. Defines the terms used in this Act. Defines "areas of critical State concern" as meaning areas on non-Federal lands which the State determines to be of more than local concern in view of the significant damage to life, property, the quality of the environment, or the long-term public interest which could occur from uncontrolled or incompatible development. Title II: Federal Grants for State and Indian Land Use Programs - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to make annual grants to assist the States in the development and administration of a land use program. States that initial grants may be made as soon as the State has established a State land use planning agency and an advisory council which participates in the development of the State land use program and consults, reviews, and and comments on the State land use program. Authorizes the Secretary to make additional grants to the States for developing procedures to simplify the processing of permits, licenses and other governmental decisions which are prerequisites to proposed development activities. Provides appeal procedures for States which the Secretary has determined are ineligible for grants. States that in implementing its land use program, a State may utilize (1) direct State land use planning and regulation, (2) action by local governments under criteria and standards established and supervised by the State, or (3) a combination of the two techniques. Directs the Secretary to appoint a task force group to investigate and report to him concerning the need for and the form of grant program providing for land use planning by Indian tribes for Indian reservations and other tribal lands. Encourages the States to coordinate land use planning activities on an interstate basis. Title III: State Land Use Programs - Stipulates that the State land use program shall include a statement of policies defining the State's role in land use decisions which are of more than local concern, including decisions affecting key facilities, large scale subdivision or development projects, developments of regional impact, and areas of critical State concern. Requires that State programs include (1) a process to inventory the land and water resources within the State, and (2) a process for designating which of the areas inventoried are determined to be of critical State concern, and policies and methods for the regulation of development within areas of critical state concern. States that programs must include policies and procedures designed to (1) identify prime food and fiber producing lands, (2) consider the location of large scale subdivision or development projects, (3) guide the use of land in areas which may be impacted by key facilities and major improvement, (4) consider the environmental, social, and economic impact of developments of regional impact, and (5) encourage development and land use patterns designed to conserve energy. Title IV: Federal Actions and Federal Lands - States that Federal Activities significantly affecting land use on non-Federal land must be consistent with land use programs which conform to the provisions of this Act, except in cases of overriding national interest as determined by the President. Requires applicants for Federal licenses or permits to certify that any proposed activities affecting land use are in compliance with the States' land program. Provides that each public land management agency head shall develop, maintain, and revise where appropriate land use plans for public lands under his jurisdiction. Requires that provision be made for substantial and meaningful public involvement and participation of appropriate State and local government representatives in the development, revision, and implementation of land use plans, guidelines, rules, and regulations for public lands. Title V: Administration - Establishes in the Department of the Interior an Office of Land Use Administration. States that the Secretary shall, through the Office, administer the land use grant program and undertake specified programs and responsibilites to achieve the objectives of this Act. Requires the Secretary to coordinate his activities pursuant to this Act with all other interested Federal agencies. Directs the Executive Office of the President to issue guidelines to the Federal departments and agencies to assist them in carrying out the requirements of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to study and report to the Congress within 3 years the need for, and form of, national land use policies. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act. Limits the amount of grants to States to 75 percent of the costs of developing and administering the land use program within the State.
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1975
Directs the Comptroller General to audit annually the Federal Reserve Board, the Federal Advisory Council, the Federal Open Market Committee, and all Federal Reserve banks and branches. Requires the Comptroller General to report to the Congress within six months after the end of each fiscal year on the results of the audit. States that such report shall specifically indicate any program, financial transaction, or undertaking observed in the course of the audit which in the opinion of the Comptroller General has been carried out without legal authority.
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1975
Ozone Protection Act - Declares that the release of chlorofluromethane may pose a danger to public health and safety. Provides for a study by the National Academy of Sciences of the nature and likelihood of potential effects on public health and the environment of the discharge of such gas. Directs the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to report to the Congress on such potential effects. Provides for a program of standards to limit the emissions of such gas from major sources. Provides for the enforcement of prohibitions upon the manufacture and sale of aerosol spray containers which discharge such gas, including penalties of up to $10,000 in civil fines per day of violation under this Act. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1975
Prohibits, except as provided in this Act, the inspection of tax returns and the disclosure of information contained in such returns. Authorizes the inspection of returns by or disclosure to (1) the taxpayer or his representative; (2) employees of the Internal Revenue Service and Department of Justice solely for purposes of enforcement of the tax laws; (3) State agencies charged with administration of the tax laws only for that purpose; (4) the President of the United States in the performance of his official duties; and (5) the Joint Committee on Internal Revenue Taxation for statistical purposes only. Increases the criminal penalties for unauthorized disclosure or receipt of information under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1975
Designates the Veterans' Administration hospital in Loma Linda, California, as the "Jerry L. Pettis Memorial Veterans' Hospital. Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to provide a memorial at such hospital in memory of the late Jerry L. Pettis.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1975
Provides that no sentence of death shall be imposed upon any person convicted of any criminal offense punishable under provision of law of the United States, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico, and that no unexecuted sentence of death shall be carried into execution after the enactment of this Act. Reduces all sentences of death to life imprisonment. Directs the Attorney General to transmit to Congress appropriate amendments substituting a sentence of life imprisonment in all provisions of law which relate to the imposition of a sentence of death.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1975
Emergency Housing and Economic Recovery Act - Declares that the Congress finds that recessions in the housing industry occur cyclically and that such problem requires a permanent program of emergency mortgage credit that can be activated periodically in order to counteract the credit cycle. Establishes, within the Department of Housing and Urban Development, an Emergency Housing and Economic Recovery Fund, to enable the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to discharge his responsibilities under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to buy and sell mortgage loans on homes costing less than $40,000 when stipulated events occur. Declares that such authority would exist whenever the rate of unemployment exceeded 6 percent and the level of housing starts dropped below 1.75 million for three consecutive months. Declares such authority would continue until the rate of unemployment dropped below 6 percent or housing starts exceeded 1.75 million for three consecutive months. Requires that a mortgage loan be at an initial rate of 6 percent to be eligible for purchase under this Act. Stipulates that the Secretary may not purchase more than one million mortgage loans, 75 percent of which shall involve residences which have been constructed within one year prior to the date of purchase, during any single fiscal year. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Emergency Housing and Economic Recovery Fund such sums as may be necessary to reimburse the fund for any net losses.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1975
Revises the Internal Revenue Code to allow as a deduction from gross income an amount not to exceed $10,000 paid by an individual during the taxable year for qualified purchases of contemporary American art.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1975
Part-Time Career Opportunity Act - Phases in, at the rate of 2 percent each year for five years up to a maximum of 10 percent, part-time jobs in the Federal Civil Service. Authorizes the Civil Service Commission to waive or reduce any such percentage minimum for a period not to exceed one year under specified circumstances. States that a decision of the Commission to waive or reduce any such percentage minimum shall include the reasons and justification therefor. Authorizes to be appropriated the sums necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1975
Consumer Energy Act - Title I; Natural Gas and Oil Regulatory Reform - Declares it to be the policy of Congress to apply uniform economic regulations to both natural gas and oil production to assure adequate supplies and availability at reasonable prices. Exempts a small producer from the provisions of this Act for an initial period of 5 years from the date of enactment of this Act. Provides that the Federal Power Commission may by regulation require any such producer to prepare and submit to it such information as the Commission determines to be necessary. Authorizes the Commission to exempt from the provisions of this Act any transportation or sale of natural gas or oil in interstate commerce with respect to any State which establishes and maintains an adequate program of regulation within such State of such transportation and sale in accordance with this Act. Requires the Commission, in a rulemaking proceeding, to establish on or before February 1, 1976, and annually thereafter to revise, a national area rate for production within the United States of natural gas and oil. Requires the Commission to establish adjustments to the national area rate for each major producing region to reflect differences in production costs, State taxation, and similar costs. States that each new producer contract shall be filed by the producer with the Commission within 30 days of its execution. Authorizes the Commission, after notice, hearing, and opportunity for public comment, to allocate natural gas among pipelines. Disallows authorization of appropriations for the Commission until either the Chairman of the Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce of the House of Representatives or the Chairman of the Committee on Commerce of the Senate certifies that a comprehensive oversight investigation and hearing into and evaluation of the operations and effectiveness of the Commission has been conducted by a committee. Directs the Commission, so far as practicable, to secure and keep current information with respect to: (1) the ownership, operation, management, and control of any facility for the transportation or sale of natural gas or oil; (2) the total estimated reserves and resources of natural gas and oil of the United States (including the Outer Continental Shelf), the current production therefrom of natural gas and oil, and the ratio of such reserves and resources to the level of current production; (3) the cost of the transportation and sale of natural gas and oil, by company, nation, and type of activity; and (4) the current and projected schedule, by company, nation, and type, of capital expenditures dedicated to the exploration and development of reserves and resources of natural gas and oil in the United States, or the Outer Continental Shelf, and elsewhere throughout the world. Requires the Commission to assemble lists of major companies and other companies, agencies, institutions, and associations required to report under this section and to prepare, print, and mail to them forms to be used in compiling such reports. Provides that it shall be the duty of every major company to report annually to the Commission on its assets and operations, worldwide, on an establishment basis. Establishes penalties for failing to furnish information as may be requested by the Commission. Natural Gas and Oil Act - Makes technical and conforming changes to the Natural Gas and Oil Act, including the redefining of terms used in such Act. Title II: Emergency Interim Relief For Consumers of Oil - Provides that, immediately upon the enactment of this title, the President shall issue an order to establish a ceiling on prices of crude oil and petroleum products at levels not to exceed the highest price levels for each such commodity prevailing during the 14-day period that ended January 19, 1974. Requires that, not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this title, the President shall issue an order rolling back prices of crude oil and all petroleum products to levels not to exceed the highest price levels for each such commodity prevailing during the 7-day period that ended December 1, 1973. Allows the President, after notice and an opportunity for the submission of written and oral views and comments by interested parties, to grant specific exceptions from the rollback to compensate for any increased costs incurred for crude oil and petroleum products produced or refined outside the United States, but such exceptions shall in no event allow more than a passthrough for increases in the costs of such commodities. Title III: Federal Oil and Gas Corporation - Establishes the Federal Oil and Gas Corporation. Empowers such Corporation to: (1) explore for natural gas and oil on Federal, State, or foreign lands; (2) make available to the general public such geological and geophysical information as it acquires in the course of its activities; (3) develop and produce natural gas and oil from reserves on Federal, State, or foreign lands which it has located; (4) produce from reserves which it has developed or acquired such amounts of natural gas and oil as are necessary or appropriate to meet the needs of the citizens and commerce of the United States for these energy sources; and (5) engage in research directed toward the development or utilization of abundant and nonpolluting supplies of energy. Directs the Secretary of Defense, acting for the Secretary of the Navy, to transfer possession of certain properties inside the naval petroleum and oil shale reserves, which are subject to such Secretary's jurisdiction and control, to the Corporation. States that the Corporation shall build, lease, or purchase refining facilities for the crude oil it produces or otherwise obtains only if it is unable to arrange for refining of such oil in an efficient and economical manner. Authorizes appropriations to the Corporation for fiscal year 1976, and for each of the next 10 succeeding fiscal years of $50,000,000 for carrying out the provisions of this section. Title IV: Equal Treatment for Small Producers of Oil and Gas - Provides that whenever the Commission, after notice and opportunity for hearing, finds such action necessary or desirable in the public interest, it may by order direct an oil pipeline company to extend or improve its transportation or storage facilities, and to establish a physical connection of its transportation or storage facilities with the facilities of any person engaged or legally authorized to engage in the refining or distribution of oil, if the Commission finds that such a facility extension would not impair the oil pipeline company's ability to render adequate service to its customers. Prohibits an oil pipeline company from abandoning all or any portion of its facilities subject to the jurisdiction of the Commission, or any service rendered by means of such facilities, without the permission and approval of the Commission. Makes it unlawful for any oil pipeline company subject to the provisions of this Act and engaged in the transportation of crude oil or petroleum products to fail to provide any shipper of oil or petroleum products (who meets minimum tender requirements) with access or exit storage or terminal facilities at any origin or destination point. States that any oil pipeline company subject to this title that knowingly violates the provisions of this section, or aids or abets therein, shall, upon conviction thereof in any district court of the United States within the jurisdiction of which such offense was committed, be fined not more than $150,000, or imprisoned not more than 5 years, or both. Provides that noncompliance with any provision of this Act, any term or condition of a certificate of public convenience and necessity, or any applicable rule of the Commission may be grounds for suspension or termination of the certificate of public convenience and necessity. Directs the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to prepare and submit to Congress, within 12 months, a report regarding its conclusions with respect to requiring the divestiture of oil pipelines from ownership or control by any oil company which has assets of $1,000,000,000 or more together with a determination of the impact of such action upon small producers and consumers of oil and petroleum products. Title V: Fair Treatment for Retailers of Petroleum Products - Prohibits a refiner or distributor from canceling, failing to renew, or otherwise terminating a franchise unless such refiner or distributor has furnished a notice of intent to each distributor or retailer affected thereby. Title VI: Termination of Wasteful Rate Structures - Requires that commencing on January 1, 1976, and continuing until the removal of all rate differences which are based either on: (1) the quantity of natural gas or oil sold; or (2) any distinctions between domestic, commercial, industrial, or any other such category of use, that all changes in the rates or charges made, demanded, or received by any natural gas or oil company for or in connection with the transportation or sale of natural gas or oil shall be such as to decrease or remove differences in such rates and charges based either on quantity sold or distinctions between categories of use.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1975
Federal Employees Political Activities Act - Provides that Federal employees may not request political contributions from other Federal employees, provided, however, that Federal employees may make political contributions of their own volition. Prohibits the use of official authority or influence on the part of Federal employees to affect elections. Provides that such prohibition applies to employees of the United States Postal Service. Provides that such employees may, take an active part in political management or in political campaigns in their roles as private citizens. Defines the phrase "an active part in political management or in political campaigns". Provides as a penalty for violation of this Act not less than 30 days' suspension without pay or removal upon a unanimous vote of the Civil Service Commission, with prosecution in the discretion of the Attorney General.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1975
Energy Conservation Act - Title I: Truth In Energy - Federal Trade Commission Act - Provides for the disclosure of the annual operating cost of major energy consuming products and systems, so that consumers can readily compare them and thereby avoid purchasing those which unnecessarily waste energy. Requires the National Bureau of Standards to identify those products which are major energy consuming household products and to devise a procedure for estimating the annual operating costs of such products. Requires the Federal Trade Commission to establish model calculation procedures for use by suppliers in determining the estimated annual operating costs of climate conditioning systems. Provides that the disclosure of the annual operating cost estimate must appear in the same place as the purchase price on the article. Title II: Automobile Fuel Economy Standards - Automobile Fuel Economy Act - Declares it to be the purpose of the Congress to encourage the development, manufacture, and sale of automobiles which are more economical to operate in terms of the amount of fuel consumed per mile traveled, and increase the industry-wide average fuel economy for new automobiles by at least 75 percent by 1984 in comparson to the industry-wide average fuel economy for new automobiles in 1974. Requires the Secretary of Transportation to establish a minimum fuel economy standard for new automobiles introduced into commerce during and after the 1978 model year. States that such a standard shall represent the first step in a progression toward achievement of the national purpose stated in this Act. Requires the Secretary to submit to Congress no later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this title a plan for achieving the national purpose set forth in this Act. Provides for judicial review in a United States Court of Appeals of regulations promulgated in furtherance of such a plan by any person who may be adversely affected by such a regulation. States that, no later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this title, each manufacturer shall cause to be affixed and each dealer shall cause to be maintained on each new automobile, in a prominent place, a sticker indicating the fuel economy and the estimated average annual fuel costs associated with the operation of such automobile. Requires the information regarding fuel economy and average annual fuel cost be a conspicuous part of any advertisement for new automobiles which mentions purchase price or acquisition cost of such automobiles. Defines prohibited conduct and unfair trade practices under this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated to carry out the purposes of this title not more than $3,000,000 annually for fiscal years 1976, 1977, and 1978. Title III: Automotive Research and Development - Automotive Transport Research and Development Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make grants for, and support through loan guarantees, research and development leading to production prototypes of an advanced automobile or automobiles within four years from the date of enactment of this title and to secure the certification after testing of those prototypes which are likely to meet the Nation's long-term goals with respect to fuel economy, environmental protection, motor vehicle safety, and other objectives; and to interpret and carry out this title to preserve, enhance, and facilitate competition in research, development, and production of existing and alternative automobiles and automobile components. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Secretary not more than $50,000,000 to pay the interest on, and the principal balance of, any obligation guaranteed by the Secretary as to which the obligor has defaulted. Provides that the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall test each production prototype of an automobile developed in whole or in part with Federal assistance under this Act. States that the Low-Emission Vehicle Certification Board shall, upon application by a developer or by the Secretary and the receipt of test data and test results, issue or deny certification as an advanced automobile. Authorizes to be appropriated to carry out the purposes of this title not more than $15,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 1976, 1977, and 1978.
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1975
Records Management Act - Requires the establishment of standards and procedures to assure efficient and effective Government records management. States that such standards and procedures shall seek to effectuate the following goals: (1) accurate and complete documentation of the policies and transactions for the Federal Government; (2) control of the quantity and quality of records produced by the Federal Government; (3) simplification of the processes through which records are created, stored, retrieved, and used; (4) the judicious preservation and disposal of records; (5) the establishment and maintenance of a system which focuses continuous attention upon records from their initial creation to their final disposition; (6) the establishment and maintenance of mechanisms of control with respect to records creation, in order to assure the prevention of unnessary records; and (7) the establishment and maintenance of such other systems or techniques as the Administrator considers necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act. Provides that the Administrator shall provide guidance and assistance to Federal agencies with respect to records creation, records maintenance and use, and records disposition. Directs the Administrator of General Services to: (1) conduct inspections or paperwork studies, at regular intervals as determined to be necessary by the Administrator, of the records and records management practices and and programs of every Federal agency; (2) require the head of every Federal agency to transmit a report to the Administrator with respect to the records and records management practices and programs of each such Federal agency during each period of two calendar years; (3) prescribe rules with respect to records management; and (4) order, to the extent he considers necessary, the head of any Federal agency to take specific action with respect to the records or records management practices of his agency. Establishes in the executive branch a Records Review Board to review any order issued by the Administrator under the provisions of this Act upon appeal by any Federal agency. Directs the head of each Federal agency to make and preserve records containing adequate and proper documentation of the organization, functions, policies, decisions, procedures, and essential transactions of the Federal agency and designed to furnish the information necessary to protect the legal and financial rights of the Federal Government and of persons directly affected by the activities of the Federal agency. Requires each agency head to establish safeguards against the removal or loss of records he determines to be necessary and required by the rules of the Administrator.
United States · United States Congress · 20 February 1975
Prohibits any change in the status of any member of the uniformed services who is in a missing status as a result of service in Southeast Asia, until the provisions of the Paris Peace Accord of January 27, 1973, have been fully complied with by North Vietnam or the President has determined and reported to Congress that all reasonable actions have been taken to account for such members.
United States · United States Congress · 20 February 1975
Federal Records Management Act - Defines terms used in this Act and declares that the purpose of this Act is to require the establishment of standards and procedures to assure efficient and effective records management in the Federal Government. States that such standards and procedures shall seek to effectuate specified goals, including: (1) accurate and complete documentation of the policies and transactions of the Federal Government; (2) control of the quantity and quality of records produced by the Federal Government; and (3) simplification of the processes through which records are created, stored, retrieved, and used. Directs that the Administrator of General Services shall provide guidance and assistance to Federal agencies with respect to records creation, records maintenance and use, and records disposition. Requires the Administrator to conduct inspections or paperwork studies of the records, records practices, and records management programs of every Federal agency. Authorizes and directs the Administrator to charge any Federal agency for the cost of any paperwork study. Directs the Administrator to transmit yearly reports to Congress. Enumerates the types of information that such report shall contain. Establishes the Records Review Board as an independent organization in the executive branch, such Board to consist of five members. Sets the rates of pay for Board members. Allows the Board to appoint and fix the pay of such personnel as it deems necessary to carry out its functions under this Act. Empowers any executive agency to appeal to the Board any order issued by the Administrator pursuant to this Act. Requires the head of each Federal agency to make and preserve records containing adequate and proper documentation of the organization, functions, policies, decisions, procedures, and essential transactions of such Agency. Grants the Administrator immediate custody and control of the National Archives Building and its contents. Directs the Administrator to establish standards for the selective retention of records of continuing value. Authorizes the Administrator to establish and operate records centers for specified purposes and centralized microfilming services for Federal agencies. States that the head of each Federal agency shall establish safeguards against the removal or loss of records he determines to be necessary and required by the rules of the Administrator. Authorizes the Administrator to prescribe such rules as he considers essential to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 February 1975
Requires the Federal Reserve Board to conduct monetary policy in the first half of 1975 so as to lower long-term interests rates. Specifies that the prompt reduction of unemployment is the goal of this resolution. Directs the Board to report on the first day of each month to Banking Committees of the House and Senate as to progress toward this goal.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1975
Provides, under the Voting Rights Act of 1965, for the extension of specified provisions for an additional 20 years. Makes permanent the ban against requiring compliance with tests and devices as a prerequisite to voting.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1975
Prohibits a petroleum refiner or distributor from cancelling, failing to renew, or otherwise terminating a franchise unless he furnishes notification in writing to each affected distributor or retailer by certified mail not less than ninety days prior to the date on which such franchise will be canceled, together with a statement of the reasons of such cancellation and of the remedies available. Provides that a petroleum refiner or distributor shall not cancel, fail to renew, or otherwise terminate a franchise unless the retailer or distributor whose franchise is terminated failed to comply substantially with any essential and reasonable requirement of such franchise or failed to act in good faith in carrying out the terms of such franchise. States that if a refiner or distributor engages in conduct prohibited under this Act, a retailer or distributor may maintain a suit against such refiner or distributor.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1975
Comprehensive Right to Privacy Act - Requires that any organization of State or local government maintaining an information system that includes personal information shall: (1) collect, maintain, use, and disseminate only personal information necessary to accomplish a proper purpose of the organization; (2) collect information to the greatest extent possible from the data subject directly; (3) maintain information in the system with accuracy, completeness, timeliness, and pertinence as necessary to assure fairness in determinations relating to a data subject; (4) make no dissemination to another system or any individual other than the data subject without specifying requirements for security and the use of information exclusively for the purpose set forth in the notice required under this Act; (5) maintain a complete and accurate record, including identity purpose, and date, of every access to any personal information in a system by persons or organizations not having regular access authority; and (6) collect no personal information concerning the political or religious beliefs, affiliations, and activities of data subjects maintained by any government agency unless expressly authorized by statute. Prohibits any State or local government from requiring individuals to disclose for statistical purposes any personal information unless such disclosure is required by a constitutional provision or Act of Congress, and the individual is so informed. Requires any organization maintaining or proposing to establish an information system for personal information to: (1) give notice of the existence and character of each existing system once a year to the Federal Privacy Board; (2) give public notice of the existence and character of each existing system each year; and (3) assure that such public notice specifies the categories of data maintained, and the categories of all information sources, a description of types of use made of information, and the procedures whereby an individual can gain access to such information and contest its accuracy and the necessity for its retention. Requires any organization maintaining personal information to inform an individual asked to supply personal information whether he is legally required, or may refuse, to supply the information requested, and also of any specific consequences, which are known to the organization, of providing or not providing such information. Permits data subjects who dispute information about themselves to have such disputed information noted as being disputed when such information about him is disseminated. Requires, upon request, corrections in information to be sent to past recipients of information. Directs organizations maintaining information to inform, within two years and each year thereafter, individuals on whom data is stored of its content and where a copy of such data may be obtained. Sets forth exemptions to the provisions of this Act. Makes it unlawful for any organization to require an individual to disclose or furnish his social security account number, for any purpose in connection with any business transaction unless the disclosure or furnishing of such number is specifically required by Federal law. Establishes the Federal Privacy Board whose five members shall be appointed by the President. Directs the Board to: (1) publish an annual Data Base Directory of the United States containing the name and characteristics of each personal information system covered by this Act; (2) make rules to assure compliance with this Act; (3) upon the determination of a violation of a provision of this Act or regulation promulgated under the Act, and after opportunity for a hearing, order the organization violating such provision to cease and desist such violation; and (4) conduct open, public hearings on all petitions for exceptions or exemptions from provisions, application, or jurisdiction of this Act. States that any individual or organization or responsible officer of an organization who willfully: (1) keeps an information system without having notified the Federal Privacy Board; or (2) issues personal information in violation of this Act; or (3) solicits, uses, or otherwise acquires information in violation of this Act shall be fined not more than $10,000 in each instance or imprisoned not more than five years, or both. Provides that any person, system, or agency which violates the provisions of the Act, or any rule, regulation, or order issued thereunder, shall be liable to any person aggrieved thereby.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1975
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish the Santa Moncia Mountains and Seashore Urban National Park in the State of California. Specifies which lands shall be included within the boundaries of the Park. Requires the Secretary to identify lands which should be acquired to achieve the purposes of this Act. States that with respect to improved properties, the Secretary shall not acquire fee title unless he determines that such property is being used, or is threatened with uses, which are detrimental to the purposes of this Act. Defines "improved property" as property on which a detatched single family dwelling is located or property developed for agricultural uses. Permits owners of improved properties to retain a right of use and occupancy for a definite term of up to 25 years. Requires the Secretary to submit to the Committees on Interior and Insular Affairs and to the Committees on Appropriations of the United States Congress a detailed program identifying the lands selected and the annual acquisition program which he recommends for the ensuing five fiscal years. Authorizes the Secretary to cooperate with local government in establishing zoning laws or ordinances which will assist of achieving the purposes of this Act. Establishes the Santa Monica Mountains and Seashores Urban National Park Advisory Commission, to be composed of 15 members appointed by the Secretary for terms of three years each. Directs the Secretary to meet at least annually with the Commission to consult on general policies and specific matters related to planning, administration, and development affecting the park. Authorizes specific appropriations of up to $500,000 for the development of needed public facilities. Authorizes appropriations of such sums as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1975
Directs the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve, and the Federal Open Market Committee to: (1) take action in the first half of 1975 to increase the money supply in order to promote economic recovery; and (2) maintain growth of the money supply commensurate with production, in order to maximize employment and stabilize prices. requires the Federal Reserve to consult with Congress at semiannual hearings before the Committees on Banking concerning its money supply growth targets and other monetary policy actions required in the upcoming six months.
United States · United States Congress · 18 February 1975
Hobbs Act Amendment - Provides that anyone who interferes with commerce by damaging to the extent of $2,000 or more any property of a person where business is conducted or property is maintained shall be fined not more than $10,000 or imprisoned not more than twenty years or both. Defines the term "extortion" to mean the obtaining of property from another, with his consent, induced by use of actual or threatened force, violence, or fear, or under color of official right notwithstanding that the same acts or conduct may also be a violation of State or local law and notwithstanding that the actual or threatened force, violence, or fear was used in the course of a legitimate labor dispute or in the pursuit of legitimate union or labor ends or objectives. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 1951)
United States · United States Congress · 13 February 1975
Establishes, under the Federal Reserve Act, special asset reserve requirements for all financial institutions. States that such reserves are to be used to maintain a fund from which moneys can be drawn for the purchase of mortgages.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1975
Declares that it is the purpose of this Act to encourage the design, production, manufacture, and sale of passenger automobiles which are more efficient in the consumption of petroleum and other natural resources through the imposition of an excise tax or the allowance of a tax credit upon the sale of an automobile, depending on the rate at which it consumes fuel. Provides, under the Internal Revenue Code, for an excise tax with respect to the price for which such automobile is sold by the manufacturer, dealer, or importer thereof, such tax ranging from zero on an automobile that averages between 18.5 and 19.5 gallons per mile to $1,000 on an automobile that averages less than 14.5 miles per gallon. Sets forth the procedure for computing such tax for the period from July 1, 1977, to June 30, 1980. Allows a tax credit on every new automobile based on the rate at which it consumes fuel according to guidelines set forth in this Act. Provides that the credit for the period beginning January 1, 1975, and ending June 30, 1977, shall range from zero on an automobile averaging between 18.5 and 19.5 miles per gallon and $1,000 for an automobile averaging over 26.5 miles per gallon. Sets forth the procedure for establishing such credits for the period from July 1, 1977, to June 30, 1980. Provides that no taxpayer shall be entitled to any tax credit more than once in each 24 month period, and such credit shall be claimed only during the tax year in which such purchase is made. Provides that the tax imposed under this Act shall be paid by the manufacturer, producer, or importer of the automobile in such manner as the Secretary of the Treasury shall prescribe. States that the rates of fuel consumption to be utilized in computing the tax under this Act shall be determined by the Environmental Protection Agency.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1975
Provides, under the National Labor Relations Act, that the duty to bargain collectively includes bargaining with respect to retirement benefits for retired employees.
United States · United States Congress · 6 February 1975
Handgun Crime Control Act - States that it shall be unlawful for any person to import, manufacture, sell, buy, transfer, receive, or transport any handgun. Provides that the Secretary of the Treasury may exempt licensed importers, manufacturers, dealers, purchasers, or transporters of handguns from the above provision if their efforts are in behalf of the United States Government. Authorizes also the exemption of licensed pistol clubs from such restrictions. Provides for the voluntary delivery of handguns to any law enforcement agency for disposition, and states that the transferor shall be entitled to a payment of $25 or the fair market value of the handgun, whichever is greater. Authorizes the Secretary to license pistol clubs conforming to specified minimal standards, including the maintenance of possession and control of the handguns used by its members. Imposes criminal penalties on persons who violate any provision or knowingly make any false statement of representation with respect to the information required to be kept in the records of a licensed pistol club or in applying for any license. Authorizes the Secretary to prescribe such rules and regulations as he deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
![Official portrait of Rep. Rees, Thomas M. [D-CA-23]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/r000134_200.jpg)