Rep. Rodino, Peter W., Jr. [D-NJ-10]

An amendment to strike the subsection of the bill which directs the U.S. Courts of Appeals to expedite determination of cases over which they have jurisdiction.

United States · United States Congress

An amendment to change the extension date for the authorization from October 1, 1982 to June 1, 1982.

United States · United States Congress

An amendment making technical changes in the bill as to dates.

United States · United States Congress

An amendment (no.62) to restore the Cuban Adjustment Act of 1966 and allowing the Justice Department, at its discretion, to grant permanent resident status to Cubans and Haitians who have resided in the U.S. since 1982.

United States · United States Congress

A joint resolution designating December 7, 1988 as "National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day" on the occasion of the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

United States · United States Congress · 19 October 1988

Designates December 7, 1988, as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

A bill to amend the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 to establish special fees for the ocean dumping of sewage sludge and industrial waste, and for other purpose.

United States · United States Congress · 30 September 1988

Amends the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 to prohibit persons from dumping sewage sludge or industrial waste into the ocean without a permit. Prohibits all such dumping after 1992. Imposes dumping fees which increase with the approach of 1993. Requires that 85 percent of such fees be deposited in a trust account for the development of environmentally sound alternatives to ocean dumping or improvement in sewage sludge and industrial waste treatment and storage techniques. Pays the remainder of such fees to the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency for ocean dumping permit, enforcement, research, and monitoring activities. Conditions receipt of an ocean dumping permit upon the entering into of a compliance or enforcement agreement with the Administrator which includes a plan for the phasing-out and cessation of ocean dumping and the implementation of alternatives to such dumping. Waives dumping fees charged against persons who have entered into a compliance agreement. Imposes civil monetary penalties against persons who dump sewage sludge or industrial waste into the ocean after 1992. Requires that 90 percent of such penalties be paid into the trust accounts in 1993, with five percent reductions in such allotment for each succeeding year. Pays the remainder to the Administrator for the activities to which dumping fees are devoted. Sets forth reporting requirements. Requires that fees and penalties not needed for use by the Administrator for permit, enforcement, research, and monitoring activities be used for making capitalization grants to New York and New Jersey for the establishment of a revolving fund to assist specified water pollution control efforts under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Directs the Administrator to issue orders requiring ocean dumpers to cease such dumping until they enter into a compliance or enforcement agreement and obtain a permit. Authorizes the Administrator to request the Attorney General to commence civil actions against persons who violate such orders or this Act's ocean dumping provisions. Prohibits persons from disposing of sewage sludge at any landfill located on Staten Island, New York. Requires that New York and New Jersey use at least 20 percent of their capitalization grant and contribution associated with such grant within six months of receipt of such grant to assist persons in developing and implementing environmentally sound alternatives to ocean dumping of sewage sludge and industrial waste. Directs the Administrator to report to the Congress, within six months of this Act's enactment, on ocean discharge guidelines established pursuant to the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Requires the President, in submitting his budget for FY 1990, to include a schedule and an estimate of the resources needed for achieving compliance with such guidelines.

A joint resolution to designate October 14, 1988, as "National Day of Remembrance for Political Prisoners in Iran".

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 1988

Designates October 14, 1988, as National Day of Remembrance for Political Prisoners in Iran.

A joint resolution to designate the week of June 18 through June 24, 1989, as "National Grasslands Week".

United States · United States Congress · 28 September 1988

Designates the week of June 18 through June 24, 1989, as National Grasslands Week.

Intellectual Property Antitrust Protection Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1988

Amends Federal bankruptcy provisions relating to the adjustment of debts of a municipality to revise rules relating to the treatment of special revenue bonds. Treats as an administrative expense any claim against a debtor municipality if the debtor provides adequate protection of the interest of the holder of a claim secured by a lien on property of the debtor and if the creditor has a claim from a stay of action against such property. Specifies that the filing of a bankruptcy petition does not operate as a stay of application of pledged special revenues to payment of indebtedness secured by such revenues. Specifies that the transfer of property of the debtor to or for the benefit of any holder of a bond or note, on account of such bond or note, may not be avoided. Provides that the holder of a claim payable solely from special revenues of a municipality under applicable nonbankruptcy law shall not be treated as having recourse against the debtor as an unsecured creditor. Provides that special revenues acquired by the debtor after the commencement of the case shall remain subject to any lien resulting from any security agreement entered into by the debtor before the commencement of the case. Specifies that any such lien on special revenues derived from a project or system shall be subject to the necessary operating expenses of such project or system. Specifies that a lease to a municipality shall not be treated as an executory contract or unexpired lease by reason of its being subject to termination in the event the debtor fails to appropriate rent.

A bill to amend the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize international disaster assistance for Jamaica to assist in alleviating the human suffering caused by Hurricane Gilbert.

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1988

Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to furnish disaster assistance to Jamaica to alleviate the suffering caused by Hurricane Gilbert. Authorizes appropriations. Requires that a certain amount of such appropriations be transferred to the Peace Corps for disaster relief programs in Jamaica under the Peace Corps Act.

A joint resolution designating October 5, 1988, as "Raoul Wallenberg Day".

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1988

Designates October 5, 1988, as Raoul Wallenberg Recognition Day.

A joint resolution to designate October 30, 1988 as "Fire Safety at Home Day - Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery".

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1988

Designates October 30, 1988, as Fire Safety at Home Day: Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery.

A bill to further the revitalization, rehabilitation, and utilization of the area known as "Officers Row" located within the Sandy Hook Unit of the Gateway National Recreation Area, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1988

Requires the Secretary of the Interior to enter into an agreement to permit New Jersey to construct the James J. Howard Marine Sciences Laboratory in the area known as "Officers Row" within the Sandy Hook Unit of the Gateway National Recreation Area.

A bill relating to compensation for members of the United States Park Police and members of the United States Secret Service Uniformed Division.

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 1988

Amends provisions of Federal law to establish a new pay schedule for the Uniformed Division of the Secret Service and the United States Park Police. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct annual surveys comparing the minimum rates of basic pay for entry-level positions within the U.S. Park Police force with the minimum rates of basic pay for similar positions in the police departments in the following areas: (1) the Washington, D.C.-Maryland-Virginia Metropolitan Statistical Area; (2) the New York-Northern New Jersey-Long Island, New York-New Jersey-Connecticut Consolidated Metropolitan Statistical Area; and (3) the San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose, California Consolidated Metropolitan Statistical Area. Requires the Secretary to increase the rates of pay for entry-level positions within the U.S. Park Police as necessary to ensure that such minimum rates are comparable to the minimum rates payable for similar positions in comparable police departments. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to conduct annual surveys comparing the minimum rates of basic pay for entry-level positions within the Uniformed Division of the Secret Service with the minimum rates of basic pay for similar positions in the Washington, D.C.-Maryland-Virginia Metropolitan Statistical Area. Requires the Secretary to increase the minimum rates of basic pay for entry-level positions within the Uniformed Division of the Secret Service as necessary to ensure that such minimum rates are comparable to the minimum rates payable for such statistical area. Requires the Secretaries to give thorough consideration to the views and recommendations of appropriate employee organizations representing both police forces. Amends the District of Columbia Police and Firemen's Salary Act of 1958 to conform to provisions of this Act. Provides for conversion to the new pay schedule for pay periods on or after October 1, 1988, for the U.S. Park Police, and on September 30, 1988, for the Uniformed Division of the Secret Service. Declares that adjustments pursuant to the surveys shall be made beginning with applicable pay periods commencing on or after October 1, 1989. Amends the District of Columbia Police and Firemen's Salary Act of 1958 to provide for service step adjustments. Authorizes additional compensation for technicians of the U.S. Park Police and the Uniformed Division of the Secret Service. Provides for the payment of premium pay for night duty and Sunday work for both police forces.

Immigration Nursing Relief Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 1988

Immigration Nursing Relief Act of 1988 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to grant special immigrant status to an immigrant (and accompanying spouse and children): (1) who entered the United States before January 1, 1988, as a nonimmigrant to perform services as a registered nurse; (2) who is working in such capacity with a valid visa as of the date of enactment of this Act; and (3) with respect to whom a labor certification has been filed prior to the granting of special immigrant status. Sets forth the following conditions for admission of nonimmigrant nurses during the five-year period beginning on April 1, 1989: (1) a professional nursing license from the country where the alien studied nursing or a degree from a U.S. or Canadian nursing school; (2) completion of an appropriate examination or possession of a license in the State of intended employment; (3) such alien's employment will not adversely affect wages and working conditions of similarly employed nurses; (4) a substantial disruption of the hiring health facility's services will occur without the services of such alien; (5) the facility has taken steps toward recruitment and retention of U.S. citizens or immigrant nurses; and (6) there is no ongoing labor dispute or related activity at such facility. Provides for an initial admission period of up to three years, with extensions up to a five-year total (six years under extraordinary circumstances). Directs the Secretary of Labor to provide for the appointment by April 1, 1990, of an advisory group to advise the Secretary: (1) concerning the impact of this Act on the nursing shortage; (2) regarding programs to recruit U.S. citizens or immigrant nurses; and (3) regarding the advisability of extending the provisions of this Act beyond April 1, 1994. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study and report to the Congress by April 1, 1991, regarding the amendments made by this Act.

Illegal Dumping Prevention Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 1988

Illegal Dumping Prevention Act of 1988 - Amends the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 to authorize the seizure and forfeiture of vessels illegally dumping wastes into ocean waters.

A joint resolution designating October 14 through 20, 1988, as "National Culinary Week".

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 1988

Designates October 14 through October 20, 1988, as National Culinary Week.

A concurrent resolution congratulating Israel and Egypt on the tenth anniversary of the Camp David Accords.

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 1988

Congratulates Israel and Egypt for a decade of peace based upon the Camp David accords. Calls upon other Arab states and Palestinians to join in the peace process, renounce the state of war and acts of violence, and enter into direct negotiations with Israel to achieve a lasting peace.

Endangered Species Protection Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 13 September 1988

Endangered Species Protection Act of 1988 - Increases to $1,000 the maximum fine for motor vehicle violations of speed limits in units of the National Forest System, the National Park System, and the National Wildlife Refuge System which are regularly inhabited by an endangered wildlife species.

A joint resolution designating October 15, 1988, as "National Fire Fighters Day".

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1988

Designates October 15, 1988, as National Fire Fighters Day.

A resolution to express a sense of outrage toward Iraq for its usage of poison gas toward the Kurdish minority.

United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1988

Expresses outrage at Iraq's use of poison gas against its Kurdish minority. Calls upon Iraq to halt the use of all chemical weapons.

Health Waste Anti-Dumping Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 11 August 1988

Health Waste Anti-Dumping Act of 1988 - Amends the Federal criminal code to establish criminal penalties for knowingly and without lawful authority dumping any health care facility waste: (1) upon the high seas or any waters within the admiralty and maritime jurisdiction of the United States; or (2) in any other place within the United States if interstate or foreign commerce is affected. Provides for forfeiture of property of violators. Includes wastes of veterinary services and laboratory services under the prohibition.

Low-Income Housing Revitalization Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 August 1988

Low-Income Housing Revitalization Act - Amends Internal Revenue Code (IRC) provisions relating to the low-income housing credit to: (1) increase the credit from four percent to nine percent with respect to new buildings that are federally subsidized; (2) reallocate unused credit amounts among other States for their housing credit agencies; and (3) permit carryover to the succeeding year of a housing credit amount, if it is reasonably likely that the building will be put into service then. Extends the low-income housing credit through 1991. Amends IRC accounting provisions to exempt low-income housing credit activities from limitations on passive losses. Revises the accelerated cost recovery system in connection with low-income residential rental property to reduce the applicable recovery period from 27.5 to 20 years. Disallows an income tax deduction for any expense relating to residential rental units that violate State or local building, health, or safety codes and are not brought into compliance. Requires the regulatory agency that notifies a taxpayer of the substandard conditions to file an information return with respect to affected taxpayers. Excludes deductions for business expenses, interest on indebtedness, and taxes from calculations to determine the passive loss limitation in connection with rental real estate activity relating to a qualified low-income housing project in which a noncorporate taxpayer actively or materially participates.

A joint resolution designating the week of October 2 through October 8, 1988, as "National Paralysis Awareness Week".

United States · United States Congress · 10 August 1988

Designates October 2 through October 8, 1988, as National Paralysis Awareness Week.

A bill to amend the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 to direct the Secretary of Transportation to establish Federal motor vehicle safety standards to require that each schoolbus be equipped so as to provide the driver with an unobstructed view of the area under the front of the schoolbus, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 8 August 1988

Amends the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 to direct the Secretary of Transportation to establish certain Federal motor vehicle safety standards requiring that each school bus be equipped to provide the driver with a clear, unobstructed view of the ground area in front of the front tires, and directly under the front bumper. Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress on the number of school buses manufactured before April 1, 1977, that are being used as school buses as of the date of such report.

Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1988

Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 - Title I: Clinical Laboratories Under the Public Health Service Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to prohibit soliciting or accepting materials from the human body for laboratory procedures without a certificate issued by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Makes certificates valid for a maximum of two years. Requires certain criteria to be met for issuance or renewal of a certificate, including that the laboratory makes agreements regarding: (1) inspections by the Secretary; (2) treating proficiency testing samples in the same manner as other materials; (3) billing patients directly; and (4) disclosure of a financial interest in the laboratory held by the referring physician, the referring group of physicians, or an immediate family member of the referring physician. Authorizes a laboratory to be accredited for certification if it meets the standards of an approved accreditation body and if the laboratory authorizes that body to submit information to the Secretary as the Secretary requires. Allows the Secretary to approve an accreditation body if certain criteria are met, including: (1) that the body's standards are at least as stringent as the Secretary's; (2) that the body agrees to collect from the laboratories it accredits and forward to the Secretary certain fees. Sets forth procedures relating to withdrawal of an accreditation body's approval. Directs the Secretary to evaluate annually the performance of each accreditation body by conducting inspections. Directs the Secretary to issue standards to assure consistent performance, including standards regarding: (1) quality assurance and quality control; (2) maintenance of records, equipment, and facilities; (3) qualifications of personnel; and (4) qualification under a proficiency testing program. Directs the Secretary to establish standards for the proficiency testing programs for certified laboratories to be conducted by the Secretary, an approved private nonprofit organization, or an approved accrediting body. Mandates that proficiency be tested to each examination and procedure quaterly, subject to exception. Directs the Secretary to establish a system to make proficiency testing program results available, upon request, to any person. Directs the Secretary to establish national standards for quality assurance in cytology services. Authorizes the Secretary, on an announced or unannounced basis, to enter and inspect certified laboratories. Grants the Secretary access to all facilities, equipment, materials, records, and information. Provides for intermediate sanctions, including civil monetary penalties. Allows the Secretary, after notice and opportunity for hearing, to suspend, revoke, or limit a certificate for specified causes. Allows suspension before a hearing in certain circumstances. Prohibits any person who has owned or operated a laboratory which has had its certificate revoked from owning or operating a certified laboratory within two years of revocation. Requires suspension of the certificate of a laboratory which has been excluded from participation under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act because of actions relating to quality. Allows temporary and permanent injunctions under suit by the Secretary. Provides for: (1) judicial review of certificate suspensions, revocations, and limitations; and (2) sanctions, including criminal fines and imprisonment. Directs the Secretary to require payment of fees for issuance and renewal of certificates, with the amounts set by the Secretary based on the volume and scope of the testing being performed. Directs the Secretary to establish the fees at lower rates for laboratories which are accredited. Directs the Secretary to annually compile information which is useful in evaluating the performance of a laboratory, including information relating to: (1) convictions for fraud and abuse, false billings, or kickbacks; (2) certificate revocations; (3) sanctions or intermediate sanctions; (4) withdrawal or revocation of accreditation; (5) injunctions; and (6) exclusions from participation under title XVIII (Medicare) or XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act. Permits the Secretary, by agreement, to use and pay for the Services or facilities of any Federal, State, or local public agency or nonprofit private organization. Allows the Secretary to exempt laboratories from compliance with these provisions where State laws are at least as stringent. Title II: Studies - Directs the Secretary, through the Public Health Service, to conduct studies on various aspects of validity, reliability, and accuracy of tests performed by clinical laboratories and to report the results to the Congress.

Information Dissemination and Research Accountability Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1988

Information Dissemination and Research Accountability Act - Establishes in the National Library of Medicine a National Center for Research Accountability to assist in eliminating duplication of effort in Federal research proposals involving live animals. Directs the President to appoint as members of the Center 20 experts in the biomedical information sciences who are currently employed by a Federal agency in a capacity that qualifies them to make determinations as to whether research proposals involving live animals are duplicative of other research efforts. Sets forth provisions for a Director of the Center. Prohibits Federal agencies from carrying out or funding any research proposal involving live animals unless the proposal is submitted to the Center following agency approval. Prohibits Federal funding of any proposal the Center determines would duplicate other research completed or in process. Authorizes the Center to contract with private entities to assist in conducting comprehensive full-text literature searches. Directs the President to establish rules to preclude any conflict of interest in the awarding of these contracts. Directs the Center to report annually to the President and the Congress. Provides for modernization of biomedical information storage and dissemination by the National Library of Medicine. Directs the Library to: (1) acquire, in full-text form, all biomedical information owned or available for use by Federal agencies (except information already in the Library or classified for national security reasons); (2) transcribe and store in full-text all such information acquired by the Library after January 1, 1960; (3) make available to medical libraries, through modern technologies, all full-text biomedical information in its collection; (4) support, by grants and contracts, the creation of new information for teaching and demonstrations, including audiovisual aids and computer graphics technologies; (5) make available such new information to research and teaching institutions, at cost; and (6) increase the number of persons trained in modern methods of biomedical information storage and dissemination technologies by making available stipends, awards, and grants to persons engaged in such training. Provides that the cost to those requesting biomedical or teaching and demonstration information shall include the Federal expenses incurred in acquiring and making it available. Authorizes the Library to award contracts to the private-sector data recording industry to improve: (1) the development of technologies for storage and dissemination of full-text biomedical information; and (2) dissemination of such information to medical libraries for research use. Requires the Library to report annually to the Congress on its progress. Authorizes appropriations.

A resolution appointing managers on the part of the House in the matter of the impeachment of Alcee L. Hastings, judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1988

Appoints managers on the part of the House of Representatives in the matter of the impeachment of Alcee L. Hastings, Judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

A resolution providing certain authorities to the managers on the part of the House in the matter of the impeachment of Alcee L. Hastings, judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1988

Provides certain administrative authorities to the managers on the part of the House of Representatives in the matter of the impeachment of Alcee L. Hastings, Judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, in the preparation and conduct of the impeachment trial.

A resolution providing that a message be sent to the Senate informing the Senate of the impeachment of Alcee L. Hastings, judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1988

Provides for a message to be sent to the Senate informing the Senate that the House of Representatives has impeached Alcee L. Hastings, Judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

A joint resolution designating July 27, 1989, as "National Korean War Veterans Recognition Day".

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1988

Designates July 27, 1989, as National Korean War Veterans Recognition Day and expresses the gratitude of the Congress and the Nation for the contributions made by the Korean War veterans.

New Jersey-New York Medical Waste Tracking Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1988

New Jersey-New York Medical Waste Tracking Act of 1988 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a demonstration program, within nine months of this Act's enactment, to track, by the use of a manifest system, medical waste generated and disposed of in New York and New Jersey. Makes such program applicable to generators of medical waste, and owners and operators of facilities for the treatment, storage, transport, and disposal of medical waste. Requires such parties to permit access to and provide copies of all records relating to such wastes to any designated EPA representative. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Provides that this Act does not preclude any State or locality from imposing more stringent requirements for the control or monitoring of medical waste or affect any other authorities or requirements of the Solid Waste Disposal Act. Requires the EPA to report to the Congress, within three years of this Act's enactment, on the progress and success of the demonstration program. Authorizes appropriations for such program for FY 1989 through 1991. Directs the EPA to report to the Congress on medical waste treatment and disposal methods currently being employed by New York and New Jersey.

Immigration Amendments of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 28 July 1988

Legal Immigration Amendments of 1988 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to reduce quarterly and yearly levels of lawful immigration admissions. Establishes a National Commission on Independent Immigration to review the impact of such independent admissions and recommend admissions levels based on labor market conditions and other economic factors. Requires an annual report to the President and to the appropriate congressional committees. Establishes annual admission levels for independent immigrants at 150,000. Allocates such visas as follows: (1) one-third for members of the professions or persons with exceptional skills; (2) one-third for skilled or unskilled workers, investors, or retirees; and (3) one-third for persons chosen on a point system basis. Directs the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Attorney General and the Secretaries of Labor and Education, to establish such point system based on the following criteria: (1) age; (2) education; (3) occupational shortage; (4) additional skills; and (5) prearranged employment in a low unemployment area. Amends petitioning procedure provisions to permit special immigrant petitions to be filed with the Attorney General. Amends labor certification provisions to exclude certain classes of immigrants unless the Secretary of Labor certifies that there are not sufficient qualified U.S. workers and that employment of aliens in such positions will not adversely affect U.S. workers' wages and conditions. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study, and hold public hearings, about the labor certification process and to report to the appropriate congressional committees. Makes 800,000 additional immigrant visas available in FY 1990 through 1994 for spouses and children of legalized aliens. Makes 200,000 additional second preference (spouses and unmarried sons and daughters of permanent residents) visas available for FY 1990 and 1991. Extends through FY 1993 the program of additional visas (50,000 for FY 1989 through 1993) for nationals of countries adversely affected by Public Law 89-236 (1965 immigration amendments).

A joint resolution designating September 13, 1989, as "Uncle Sam Day".

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1988

Designates September 13, 1989, as Uncle Sam Day in honor of Samuel Wilson of the city of Troy, New York, on the occasion of the 200th anniversary of the city. (Samuel Wilson was the progenitor of the national symbol, Uncle Sam.)

Permanent Housing for Homeless Americans Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1988

Permanent Housing for Homeless Americans Act of 1988 - Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to provide FY 1989 and 1990 housing assistance for homeless or low-income individuals and families under the following programs: (1) section 8 assistance; (2) section 8 moderate rehabilitation assistance; (3) modernization of vacant public housing; (4) rental rehabilitation; and (5) funding for the rehabilitation of State and local government in rem properties. Requires an annual program report to the Congress.

Anti-Drug Resource Enhancement Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1988

Anti-Drug Resource Enhancement Act of 1988 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase alcohol excise taxes as follows: (1) from 17 cents to 32 cents per gallon on wines containing not more than 14 percent alcohol; (2) from 67 cents to 82 cents per gallon on wines containing between 14 percent and 21 percent alcohol; (3) from $2.25 to $2.40 per gallon on wines containing between 21 percent and 24 percent alcohol; (4) from $3.40 to $3.55 per gallon on champagne and other sparkling wines; (5) from $2.40 to $2.55 per gallon on artificially carbonated wines; and (6) from $9 to $12.30 per barrel on beer. Increases the cigarette excise tax from: (1) $8 to $9 per thousand for small cigarettes; and (2) $16.80 to $18.90 per thousand for large cigarettes. Establishes in the Treasury the Anti-Drug Resource Enhancement Trust Fund, comprising an Anti-Illicit Drug Account and an Alcohol and Tobacco-Related Addiction Account. Appropriates to the former account 90 percent of the revenue attributable to the excise tax increases mandated in this Act, such amounts to be used to decrease the supply and demand for illicit narcotics through various anti-drug education, law enforcement, and treatment programs. Appropriates the remaining increased revenue to the latter account for research, prevention, education, treatment, and other programs for individuals addicted to alcohol or tobacco.

Independent Procurement Corps Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1988

Independent Procurement Corps Act of 1988 - Title I: Independent Procurement Corps - Establishes as an agency in the executive branch the Independent Procurement Corps, to be headed by a Director appointed by the President. Outlines provisions concerning requirements for staffing, education, training, and pay. Outlines duties of the Corps, including the following: (1) receiving information, analysis, and advice from officers of the armed forces with regard to the need and justification for major defense systems; (2) consulting with such officers about such need and justification but having the final authority over which systems are to be researched, developed, and produced; (3) carrying out functions and relevant acquisition regulations of the Department of Defense (DOD) relating to the research, development, and production of major systems; (4) operating as the sole negotiator with representatives of the private sector doing business with DOD; and (5) determining funding priorities and submitting to the President each fiscal year an appropriations request reflecting those priorities. Provides Corps personnel limitations, prohibiting a person from serving as Director if such person has been employed by a defense contractor or has served as an officer of the armed forces during the five years preceding nomination as Director. Prohibits a former Director from accepting compensation for five years after leaving office from any company under contract with DOD during the period such person served as Director. Provides similar three-year limitations for staff members of the Corps. Requires the Director to submit to the President, the Congress, and the Secretary of Defense annual reports on the activities of the Corps. Provides that the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition shall be the chief liaison between DOD and the Corps for purposes of communicating the views of the Department on acquisition matters relating to major systems. Terminates certain duties of the Under Secretary that are transferred to the Corps under this Act. Title II: Inspector General for Defense Procurement - Establishes the Office of the Inspector General for Defense Procurement as an independent office in the executive branch. Places at the head of the Office an Inspector General for Defense Procurement, to be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and removable from office by the President. Requires the Inspector General to appoint: (1) an Assistant Inspector General for Auditing, who shall be responsible for auditing the programs and operations of the Independent Procurement Corps; and (2) an Assistant Inspector General for Investigations, who shall be responsible for supervising the performance of investigative activities relating to such programs and operations. Outlines the duties and responsibilities of the Inspector General, including: (1) to conduct audits and investigations relating to the programs and operations of the Corps; (2) to review existing and proposed legislation and regulations relating to such programs and to make recommendations to improve the economy and efficiency of such programs and operations; (3) to provide and recommend policy for such programs and operations; (4) to recommend policies for the Corps and other Federal agencies and other entities with respect to the improvement of such programs and operations and the prevention and detection of fraud or abuse in such programs; (5) to keep the President, the Secretary of Defense, the Director of the Corps, and the Congress informed concerning fraud and other serious problems and deficiencies relating to the administration of programs and operations of the Corps, to recommend solutions to such problems, and to report on progress made in implementing such corrective action; (6) to investigate fraud, waste, and abuse uncovered as a result of audits; (7) to develop policy, monitor performance, and provide guidance with respect to all Corps activities relating to criminal investigation programs; (8) to monitor and evaluate the adherence of Corps auditors to proper audit review principles, policy, and procedure; and (9) to develop policy, evaluate performance, and monitor actions taken by the Corps in response to contract audits, reviews, and audits conducted by the Comptroller General of the United States. Requires the Inspector General to coordinate all activities required under this Act with the Comptroller General. Directs the Inspector General to report to the Attorney General whenever he or she has reasonable grounds to believe there has been a violation of Federal criminal law (and to the Secretary of the military department concerned, for alleged violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice). Requires the Inspector General to ensure that his or her duties are carried out in a manner that avoids compromising or endangering the national security. Directs the Inspector General to submit semiannual activity reports to the President, the Secretary of Defense, the Director of the Corps, and the Senate and House Armed Services Committees (the defense committees) and to make such reports public. Requires the Inspector General to report immediately to such entities whenever he or she becomes aware of particularly serious or flagrant problems, abuses, or deficiencies relating to the administration of programs and operations of the Corps. Limits disclosure of such information to the public. Outlines other administrative and procedural powers granted to the Inspector General in carrying out this Act (such as the authority to have access to records and information, to issue subpoenas to summon witnesses, and to select and employ such officers and employees as necessary). Requires the Director, Corps personnel, the military departments, the defense agencies, and the Secretary to furnish the Inspector General such information and assistance as requested as part of an investigation, audit, or inspection under the provisions of this Act. Directs the Inspector General to report to the President, the Secretary, the Director, and the defense committees whenever information is refused or not provided. Directs the Administrator of General Services to provide the Office with all appropriate space and support. Authorizes the Inspector General to receive and investigate complaints or information from an employee of the Corps concerning violations of law, mismanagement of funds, waste, abuse, or substantial and specific danger to the public health and safety. Prohibits the Inspector General from disclosing the identity of any such employee, unless such disclosure is unavoidable during the course of the investigation. Prohibits reprisals against any employee for making a complaint or disclosing information to the Inspector General. Provides personnel limitations for the Office, prohibiting a person from serving as Inspector General if such person has been employed by a defense contractor or was a member of the armed forces during the five years preceding nomination as Inspector General. Prohibits a former Inspector General from accepting compensation for five years after serving in such position from any company under contract with DOD during the period such person served as Inspector General. Provides similar three-year limitations for employees of the Office. Prohibits any member of the armed forces, active or reserve, from being appointed to the Office under this Act.

A joint resolution designating the week beginning March 7, 1989, as "Deaf Awareness Week".

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1988

Designates the week beginning March 7, 1989, as Deaf Awareness Week.

A joint resolution commemorating the centennial of the completion of the Old Executive Office Building in the District of Columbia.

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1988

Commemorates the centennial of the completion of the Old Executive Office Building in the District of Columbia.

A joint resolution designating October 16 through 22, 1988, as "National Poetry Week".

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1988

Designates the week of October 16 through October 22, 1988, as National Poetry Week.

A joint resolution to designate October 8, 1988, as "National Day of Outreach to the Rural Disabled".

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 1988

Designates October 8, 1988, as National Day of Outreach to the Rural Disabled.

A joint resolution to prohibit the proposed sale to Kuwait of F/A-18 aircraft, Cluster bomb units, SIDEWINDER missiles, SPARROW missiles, HARPOON missiles, and MAVERICK missiles (transmittal number 88-39).

United States · United States Congress · 12 July 1988

Prohibits the proposed sale of F/A-18C/D aircraft, Cluster bomb units, and Sidewinder, Sparrow, Harpoon, and Maverick missiles to Kuwait.

Telecommunications Accessibility Enhancement Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 7 July 1988

Directs the Federal Communications Commission to establish and implement a telecommunications relay system to increase access to Federal departments and agencies for users of Telecommunications Devices for the Deaf (TDDs). Requires the system and its associated plans to include: (1) expansion of the existing relay system to a prescribed minimum service level; (2) accessibility of TDDs in Federal agencies; (3) publication of a TDD directory of Government access numbers; (4) adoption and display of logos identifying TDD stations; and (5) support for the development of cost-reducing technologies. Directs the FCC to complete its existing inquiry concerning an interstate relay system for TDD users. Requires that the Congress install TDDs and assure their accessibility in congressional offices as soon as practicable. Authorizes appropriations.

Affordable Housing Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 July 1988

Affordable Housing Act - Title I: Housing Assistance - Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to provide construction and rehabilitation grants and operating assistance in order to expand and maintain the permanent supply of affordable housing for very low-income and other lower income families. Grants priority to homeless families. Sets forth program requirements, including recipient preferences, tenant rights, and assistance use restrictions. Requires an annual program report to the Congress. Authorizes appropriations beginning in FY 1989. Terminates such authorization upon the acquisition, construction, or rehabilitation of a specified number of housing units. Title II: Revenue Measures - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase to 25 percent the rate of the alternative minimum tax for both corporate and noncorporate taxpayers. (The current corporate rate is 20 percent, 21 percent for noncorporate taxpayers.) Reduces from 80 percent to 50 percent the income tax deduction for business meal and entertainment expenses. Amends provisions relating to the basis for calculating taxes on property a taxpayer acquires from a decedent to: (1) eliminate a special rule with respect to the stock of a domestic international sales corporation (DISC); (2) update the carryover basis rules to refer to property acquired from decedents dying after December 31, 1988 (current law refers to 1979); and (3) permit a tax exclusion of gain when an estate's executor uses certain appreciated carryover basis property to satisfy the right of a person to receive a pecuniary request. Repeals capital gains rules relating to foreign investment company stock acquired from a decedent. Requires estate executors to: (1) file information returns in connection with carryover basis property; and (2) provide written notice to recipients of such property. Prescribes penalties for failure to report. Increases the excise taxes on cigars (from 75 cents to $1.88 per thousand for small cigars), cigarettes (from eight cents to 16 cents per thousand for small cigarettes and from $16.80 to $33.60 per thousand for large cigarettes), cigarette papers and tubes, and smokeless tobacco (from 24 cents to 60 cents per pound for snuff and from eight cents to 20 cents per pound for chewing tobacco).

A concurrent resolution regarding the protection and promotion of basic human rights in the Republic of Singapore.

United States · United States Congress · 6 July 1988

Urges the Government of Singapore to: (1) release all political prisoners; (2) respect the rights of lawyers; (3) investigate mistreatment of political detainees; and (4) respect the rights of Singaporeans to openly criticize Government policies and speak freely with representatives of human rights organizations, foreign diplomats, and the media. Commends the State Department and the U.S. Embassy in Singapore for monitoring human rights in Singapore. Calls upon the Secretary of State to: (1) urge the Singaporean Government to release persons imprisoned without trial for the peaceful expression of their beliefs; and (2) communicate to the Government of Singapore that contacts between Singaporean citizens and U.S. Embassy officials are an essential aspect of U.S. foreign policy.

A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to strengthen conflict-of-interest restrictions relating to defense procurement.

United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1988

Revises conflict-of-interest provisions concerning Department of Defense procurement to prohibit former Department officers and employees and former or retired members of the armed services who participated in decisionmaking responsibilities concerning defense contractors from accepting compensation from such contractors for a two-year period following separation from the Department. (Present law imposes such prohibitions only on those officials who performed procurement functions for a majority of working days or who participated in negotiations of contracts or claims in excess of $10,000,000.) Imposes criminal penalties for violations of such prohibition. (Present law provides only civil penalties.) Imposes criminal penalties upon any person who knowingly offers or provides such compensation to a former defense procurement official. (Present law imposes only civil penalties.) Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to exempt from such requirements certain persons appointed to sensitive civilian procurement executive positions. Specifies that such an exemption shall be made with the concurrence of the Director of the Office of Government Ethics. Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress concerning any such exemptions. Requires the Secretary to provide each defense procurement official separated from service a written notice containing: (1) an explanation of the provisions of this Act; and (2) the name of each contractor from whom such person is prohibited from accepting compensation. Specifies that the provisions of this Act shall not apply to contracts for less than $100,000 or to contractors who did less than $100,000 worth of business with the Department in the preceding fiscal year. Allows any person who is considering the propriety of accepting compensation from a defense contractor to apply to the Director of the Office of Government Ethics for advice on the applicability of this Act.

A joint resolution designating September 14, 1988, as "National Medical Research Day".

United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1988

Designates September 14, 1988, as National Medical Research Day.

Department of Defense Acquisition Reorganization Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 29 June 1988

Department of Defense Acquisition Reorganization Act of 1988 - Establishes within the Department of Defense a Defense Acquisition Agency. Provides that the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition shall be the head of such Agency. Specifies that the Agency shall be responsible for all functions of the Department of Defense (including the military departments) relating to acquisition of property and services (including construction). Terminates the procurement authority of the Secretary of the Army, the Secretary of the Navy, and the Secretary of the Air Force. Establishes in the Department of Defense a Defense Acquisition Corps (DAC) to be headed by the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition. Requires the Secretary to make appointments to the DAC from the best-qualified civilian applicants and military personnel. Directs the Secretary to establish by regulation a personnel system for civilian personnel within the DAC. Outlines information to be included in such regulations. Allows the Secretary to exempt civilian personnel of the DAC from any otherwise applicable competitive service requirements. Authorizes the Secretary to establish by regulation a merit pay system for such members of the DAC as the Secretary deems appropriate. Provides for the assignment of members of the DAC. Requires the Secretary, not later than one year after the enactment of this Act, to: (1) review existing acquisition-related positions in the military departments to determine which positions should be included in the DAC; and (2) make appointments to such positions. Directs the Secretary of Defense to review each major defense acquisition program before such program proceeds into the stages of: (1) initial research and development; (2) full-scale development; and (3) production. Sets forth evaluations to be included in each review. Prohibits the Secretary or the Secretary of a military department from obligating or expending funds with respect to a stage of a major defense acquisition program unless the Secretary of Defense approves such program at the beginning of such stage. Directs the Secretary of Defense to establish and operate a Defense Acquisition University which includes all existing acquisition-related defense schools.

Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1988

Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 - Title I: Clinical Laboratories Under the Public Health Service Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to prohibit soliciting or accepting specimens for laboratory procedures without a license or an accreditation. Requires certain criteria to be met for issuance or renewal of a license, including that the laboratory agrees: (1) not to provide services under referrals from physicians or any entity which has a financial interest in or receives compensation from the laboratory; and (2) to bill patients directly. Makes licenses valid for a maximum of two years. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to issue standards to assure consistent performance, including standards regarding: (1) quality assurance and quality control; (2) maintenance of records, equipment, and facilities; (3) qualifications of certain personnel; and (4) participation in a proficiency testing program. Directs the Secretary to establish: (1) national standards for quality assurance in cytology services; and (2) an external proficiency evaluation system for cytological services. Amends provisions authorizing the Secretary to require payment of fees for the issuance and renewal of licenses to remove the limit on the amount of the fees. Directs the Secretary to annually compile information which is useful in evaluating the performance of a laboratory, including information relating to: (1) convictions for fraud and abuse, false billings, or kickbacks; (2) license revocations; (3) intermediate sanctions; (4) injunctions; (5) performance characteristics; (6) the results of the proficiency testing; (7) inspection deficiencies; and (8) exclusions from participation under title XVIII (Medicare) or XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act. Declares that a laboratory which is accredited by an accreditation body approved by the Secretary is not required to be licensed. Allows the Secretary to approve an accreditation body if certain criteria are met, including that the body's standards must be at least as stringent as those for licensing. Sets forth procedures relating to: (1) withdrawal of an accreditation body's approval; and (2) accreditation of a laboratory. Authorizes the Secretary, on an announced or unannounced basis, to inspect a laboratory and all equipment, containers, records, and other materials. Allows the Secretary, after notice and opportunity for hearing, to revoke, suspend, or limit a license or accreditation for specified causes. Allows suspension before a hearing in certain circumstances. Requires a revocation to stay in effect for at least three years. Requires the suspension of the license of a laboratory which has been excluded from participation under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act because of actions relating to quality. Allows temporary and permanent injunctions under suit by the Secretary. Provides for judicial review of license or accreditation revocation, suspension, or limitation. Provides for intermediate sanctions, including civil monetary penalties, and sanctions, including criminal fines and imprisonment. Permits the Secretary, by agreement, to use and pay for the services or facilities of any Federal, State, or local public agency or nonprofit private organization. Allows the Secretary to exempt laboratories from compliance where State laws are at least as stringent. Repeals provisions exempting from licensing requirements laboratories operated: (1) by certain health professionals solely as an adjunct to the treatment of their own patients; and (2) for any person engaged in the business of insurance solely for the purpose of making insurance decisions. Title II: Studies - Directs the Secretary, through the Public Health Service, to conduct studies on various aspects of validity, reliability, and accuracy of tests performed by clinical laboratories and to report the results to the Congress.

Medicare and Medicaid Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1988

Medicare and Medicaid Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 - Amends titles XVIII (Medicare) and XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require that clinical diagnostic laboratories be licensed under the Public Health Service Act. Limits Medicare payments for clinical diagnostic laboratory tests to no more than the lowest amount which the laboratory charged others for such tests. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to report to the Congress within 18 months of this Act's enactment on the changes and Medicare and Medicaid savings wrought by such payment policy. Requires that health maintenance organizations' quality assurance programs assure that outpatient clinical diagnostic laboratory tests are provided only in laboratories which meet this Act's licensing requirements. Allows direct Medicare payments to a laboratory which refers a test to another laboratory only if such other laboratory has no ownership or management relationship with the referring laboratory. Prohibits an entity from providing clinical diagnostic laboratory tests at a physician's direction if such physician has a financial interest in the entity that poses a substantial risk of program abuse. Imposes a civil money penalty and assessment against a person who improperly bills for laboratory services. Requires a physician who orders an unnecessary clinical diagnostic laboratory test to reimburse the laboratory for the performance of such test, unless such physician: (1) did not or could not reasonably be expected to know that such test was unnecessary; or (2) informed the individual to be tested that Medicare will not pay for such test and such individual agreed to pay for it.