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Official portrait of Rep. Roe, Robert A. [D-NJ-8]

Rep. Roe, Robert A. [D-NJ-8]

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8,067 records where Rep. Roe, Robert A. [D-NJ-8] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Law· HJRESH.J.Res. 327 (102nd)enacted

Designating 1992 as the "Year of the Gulf of Mexico".

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1991

Designates 1992 as the Year of the Gulf of Mexico. Directs all Federal and State agencies which have responsibility for matters affecting the Gulf to work to increase public awareness regarding the immeasurable value of this resource and current conditions which threaten its aesthetic and economic value.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 203 (102nd)open

Expressing the sense of the Congress that the Secretary of the Army should investigate whether James L. Cadigan should be awarded the Medal of Honor for heroism in combat during World War II.

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1991

Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the Secretary of the Army should investigate whether James L. Cadigan should be awarded the Medal of Honor for heroism in combat during World War II; and (2) if the Secretary recommends making such award, the Congress should consider appropriate legislation.

Bill· HRH.R. 3344 (102nd)referred

National Commission on Intergovernmental Mandate Reform Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 1991

National Commission on Intergovernmental Mandate Reform Act - Establishes the National Commission on Intergovernmental Mandate Reform to: (1) document all federally mandated programs; (2) identify such programs that result in no net cost or minimum net cost to the Federal Government and that may be partially or totally eliminated with a resulting cost savings to State and local governments and no financial loss to the Federal Government; (3) submit to the President and the Congress recommendations specifying the federally mandated programs to be totally or partially eliminated along with the criteria for making such a determination and recommendations specifying the methods by which such programs can be reformed in order to relieve the financial burdens on State and local governments, and Federal, State, and local taxpayers; and (4) review other matters relating to the reform of federally mandated programs that the Commission considers appropriate.

Bill· HRH.R. 3258 (102nd)open

Radon Awareness and Disclosure Act of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991

Radon Awareness and Disclosure Act of 1991 - Title I: Three-Year Extension of Indoor Radon Abatement Provisions of Toxic Substances Control Act - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to extend the authorization of appropriations for: (1) grants and technical assistance to States for radon programs; (2) an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) publication entitled "A Citizen's Guide to Radon"; (3) model construction standards and techniques for controlling radon levels in new buildings; and (4) regional radon training centers. Title II: Radon Testing - Directs the EPA Administrator to establish a program that requires: (1) products offered for sale or devices used in connection with public services for radon measurement to meet minimum performance criteria; and (2) operators of devices or persons employing techniques used in connection with public services for radon measurement to meet a minimum level of proficiency. Requires a list of devices meeting such criteria and a summary of current radon measurement technology to be made available to the public. Prescribes civil penalties for violations of this title. Directs the Administrator to establish a fee schedule for persons manufacturing or operating such devices or employing such techniques. Provides for a waiver or reduction of fees for persons who agree to test for radon in public and nonprofit child care facilities, schools, hospitals, nursing homes, or other care facilities. Provides for the deposit of fees in a Radon Service Account. Requires the Administrator to: (1) implement an outreach program to provide information about radon to the medical community; (2) develop and distribute informational material concerning radon tailored to doctors in general practice and in specialties related to lung cancer; (3) evaluate current efforts to promote radon testing and ways to increase testing during real estate transactions; and (4) report to the Congress on alternative strategies for promoting such testing. Title III: Radon In Schools - Directs the Administrator, by September 30, 1992, to designate areas with radon levels exceeding the national average for radon as priority radon areas. Requires local educational agencies to test each school building under their authority for radon. Establishes a schedule for such testing. Makes test results available for public review. Requires individuals carrying out radon testing and testing and mitigation devices and methods to be approved pursuant to proficiency programs. Establishes within EPA a Radon Testing and Mitigation Assistance Program to provide assistance for testing and mitigation devices and methods. Requires State Governors to establish priority lists of assistance applicants, based on the nature and magnitude of potential exposure to radon. Authorizes the provision to approved applicants of loans of up to 100 percent, and grants of up to 50 percent, of the total cost of a testing program. Imposes civil penalties upon local educational agencies violating this title's requirements. Authorizes citizen complaints with respect to radon in school buildings. Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: President's Commission on Radon Awareness - Establishes the President's Commission on Radon Awareness to: (1) examine existing public awareness programs concerning radon; (2) act as a coordinating body for the donation of resources to assist in programs and strategies to raise awareness of the health threats of radon; (3) encourage media outlets to increase radon awareness; and (4) evaluate the effectiveness and assist in the update of such programs and strategies.

Bill· HRH.R. 3210 (102nd)referred

Retirement Annuity Protection Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991

Retirement Annuity Protection Act of 1991 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to establish standards for insurers from which irrevocable commitments may be purchased in order to terminate single-employer pension plans in standard terminations. Provides for review of such insurers by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC). Provides for: (1) notice to the PBGC regarding the insurer; (2) notice to participants and beneficiaries regarding the insurer; (3) disapproval of the insurer by the PBGC as a basis for a notice of noncompliance; and (4) prior certification of insurers. Directs the PBGC to exercise its continuing authority to cease the standard termination of a single-employer plan under specified ERISA provisions, or to restore a plan which is so terminated, in any case in which the final distribution of assets is being, or was, carried out in whole or in part by means of the purchase of irrevocable commitments from any insurer, if the PBGC determines that such distribution by such means is not, or was not, in the best interests of plan participants and beneficiaries.

Bill· HRH.R. 3251 (102nd)referred

Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary Notification Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991

Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary Notification Act of 1991 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services' annual notice to Medicare beneficiaries to: (1) notify such beneficiaries of the availability of and the requirements to qualify for Medicaid (title XIX of the Act) payment of their premiums, deductibles, and copayments under Medicare; and (2) contain an initial application for such assistance. Requires participating physicians and hospitals to post conspicuously a notice of the availability of such assistance. Amends the Medicaid program to State plans to provide for the establishment and operation of a toll-free hotline to provide information on such assistance.

Bill· HRH.R. 3273 (102nd)referred

Semiconductor Investment Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991

Semiconductor Investment Act of 1991 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to classify the depreciable life for semiconductor manufacturing equipment as three-year property.

Bill· HRH.R. 3215 (102nd)open

Inter-American Scientific Cooperation Act of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991

Inter-American Scientific Cooperation Act of 1991 - Directs the National Science Foundation to establish the Inter-American Scientific Cooperation Program aimed at increasing science and technology cooperation between the United States and Latin America. Requires the Program to identify and cooperate with private and governmental funding bodies. Authorizes appropriations. Requires the Program to encourage the use of debt-for-science exchanges to finance cooperative scientific research projects. Requires the Program Director to make funds available, in accordance with the National Science Foundation Act of 1950, to non-Federal organizations for such exchanges. Requires intent by a debtor nation to contribute at least 75 percent of the full face value of the discounted debt, or at least 20 percent over the current market purchase price of the debt. Requires the Director to appoint a Board of Governors for the U.S. side of a United States-Mexico Binational Science Endowment. Requires that the Endowment be an independent, nongovernmental, nonadvocacy, not-for-profit organization operated exclusively for scientific and educational purposes, receiving funds and supporting projects of potential benefit to both nations. Authorizes the use of a limited amount of funds authorized under specified Acts to carry out this Act. Authorizes and encourages the Administrator of the Agency for International Development to provide a specified amount from the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 for certain purposes of this Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 3166 (102nd)referred

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase the exclusion from gross income for combat pay received by a commissioned officer to $2,000 per month.

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1991

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the exclusion from gross income for combat pay of commissioned officers (from $500 to $2,000 monthly). Requires the transfer from the Defense Cooperation Account to the general fund of the Treasury such amounts as determined necessary to offset the revenue loss caused by this amendment during the period of the Persian Gulf conflict.

Bill· HRH.R. 3142 (102nd)referred

To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for coverage of certain chiropractic services under part B of the medicare program.

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1991

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to limit Medicare coverage of chiropractic services to certain spinal manipulations and physical examinations and X-rays furnished to an individual to determine if spinal manipulations are appropriate therapy, conducted by State-licensed chiropractors who are legally authorized by the State to provide such services.

Bill· HRH.R. 3120 (102nd)referred

To express the sense of the Congress regarding a national agenda for extending and improving foreign language instruction in the elementary schools of the Nation.

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1991

Expresses the sense of the Congress that foreign language instruction should begin at the elementary school level. Offers certain statements of support and recommendations, including joining in calling for the establishment of a Blue Ribbon Commission to further such goal.

Bill· HRH.R. 3128 (102nd)referred

All-Americans Savings and Investment Incentive Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1991

All-Americans Savings and Investment Incentive Act of 1991 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide individuals a deduction for capital gains based on the period the asset is held (up to three years). Excludes collectibles from such assets. Makes such deduction an item of tax preferences. Excludes from gross income interest received during a taxable year up to $350 ($700 in the case of a joint return). Provides a phaseout of such exclusion for incomes over $50,000. Makes such exclusion applicable to distributions from regulated investment companies and real estate investment trusts. Makes certain nonresident aliens ineligible for such exclusion.

Bill· HRH.R. 3082 (102nd)referred

Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias Research Amendments of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1991

Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias Research Amendments of 1991 - Amends the Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias Services Research Act of 1986 to rename the Act as the Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias Research Act of 1991. Changes, with regard to the Council on Alzheimer's Disease: (1) the composition and designated chair; (2) Council duties; and (3) congressional reporting requirements. Replaces, on the Advisory Panel on Alzheimer's Disease, the Director of the National Center for Health Services Research and Health Care Technology Assessment with the Administrator of the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research. Provides for staggered terms for Panel members. Modifies: (1) vacancy procedures; (2) minimum meeting frequency; and (3) compensation requirements. Abolishes the Panel on September 30, 1994. Authorizes appropriations. Alters the Alzheimer's disease research responsibilities of: (1) the National Institute of Mental Health; and (2) the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research. Authorizes appropriations. Amends the Public Health Services Act to allow Federal payments to Alzheimer's disease centers to be used for construction of the centers, but not for land acquisition. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· HRH.R. 3079 (102nd)open

To establish the Great Falls Historic District Commission for the preservation and redevelopment of the Great Falls National Historic District in Paterson, New Jersey.

United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1991

Establishes the Great Falls Historic District Commission to prepare a plan for the preservation, interpretation, development, and use of the historic, cultural, and architectural resources of the Great Falls of Passaic/S.U.M. National Historic District in Paterson, New Jersey. Authorizes appropriations for the preparation of the plan.

Bill· HRH.R. 3070 (102nd)referred

Medicare Physician Payment Reform Amendments of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1991

Medicare Physician Payment Reform Amendments of 1991 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to revise the transition rules for phasing in the resource-based relative value scale (RB RVS) method of payment for physician services to prohibit adjustments for asymmetry in the transition and for behavioral responses. Declares spending under this Act to be an emergency requirement under the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) and exempt from sequestration.

Bill· HRH.R. 3067 (102nd)referred

To amend title 18, United States Code, to clarify the maximum fine for the offense of selling military decoration or medals, and to clarify that trades are included as sales.

United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1991

Amends the Federal criminal code to: (1) delete the $250 cap on the maximum fine for the unauthorized wearing, manufacturing, or selling of military decorations or medals; and (2) include trades, barters, or exchanges for anything of value as sales.

Bill· HRH.R. 3030 (102nd)open

Fairness in Product Liability Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1991

Fairness in Product Liability Act of 1991 - Governs any product liability action brought in either State or Federal court against a manufacturer or product seller on any theory for harm caused by a product, superseding State law in specified ways and degrees. Makes a product seller liable only if the seller: (1) failed to exercise reasonable care regarding the product, and the failure was the proximate cause of the harm; (2) made an express warranty, independent of any express warranty by the manufacturer, the product failed to conform to the warranty and the failure caused the harm; or (3) engaged in international wrongdoing which was a proximate cause of the harm. Makes a product seller liable as if the seller were the manufacturer if: (1) the manufacturer is not subject to service of process under State laws; or (2) a court determines the claimant would be unable to enforce a judgment against the manufacturer. Allows, in certain circumstances, a complete defense of alcohol or controlled substance use. Reduces damages by the percentage of harm attributable to misuse or alteration of a product by any person, subject to exception involving misuse or alteration by the claimant's employer or coemployees. Allows punitive damages against a manufacturer or seller for conscious, flagrant indifference to user safety. Prohibits, in certain circumstances, punitive damages regarding a drug or device, as defined in the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, unless packaging of a drug is substantially out of compliance with tamper-resistant packaging regulations. Declares manufacturer or seller liability to be several and not joint for noneconomic damages. Requires a product liability action to be brought within two years after the harm and its cause is, or with reasonable diligence should have been, discovered. Sets the time limit at 25 years for products which are capital goods. Requires offset of workers' compensation benefits. Sets forth rules regarding subrogation, contribution, indemnity, and liens. Provides for tort actions against employers. Prohibits U.S. district courts from having jurisdiction under specified provisions of Federal law over any civil action arising under this Act.

Law· HRH.R. 2967 (102nd)enacted

Older Americans Act Amendments of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 1991

Older Americans Act Amendments of 1991 - Title I: Amendments to the Older Americans Act of 1965 - Amends the Older Americans Act (the Act) of 1965 to state that the Administration on Aging (Administration) shall be under the direct authority and supervision of the Secretary of Health and Human Services and that the Commissioner on Aging shall report directly to the Secretary on all matters relating to the Act, including policy, budget, and administration of programs. Expands the functions of the Associate Commissioner on American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian Aging to include serving as the advocate in the States for older Indians, Native Hawaiians, and Alaska Natives. Modifies the duties and functions of the Administration to include: (1) establishing the National Ombudsman Resource Center to provide training and information to State Long-Term Ombudsmen and the National Center on Elder Abuse to assist State Long-Term Ombudsmen in the prevention of elder abuse; (2) providing for the establishment of the National Commission on Board and Care Facility Quality to assist State and local entities in the implementation of State and local board and care facility quality standards; (3) issuing regulations with regard to conflicts of interest; and (4) designing and implementing uniform data collection procedures for use by State agencies in providing to the Administration information on programs and activities funded under the Act. Requires coordination between the Commissioner and Federal agencies proposing or administering related programs or services. Revises provisions relating to the Federal Council on the Aging to, among other changes: (1) require the Council to serve as a direct advisor to the Commissioner on matters affecting the special needs of older individuals for services and assistance under the Act; and (2) reauthorize and extend the Council through FY 1995. Authorizes the Commissioner to designate a Federal office in the Administration, directed by an officer or employee with nutritional science and planning expertise, to coordinate and assist the: (1) delivery of nutrition services under the Act; (2) implementation of Federal dietary, nutritional, and health services standards for nutritional planning; and (3) establishment of guidelines for monitoring compliance of such nutritional services with the Act's requirements. Authorizes the Commissioner to establish a policy, and be responsible for advocating, guiding, coordinating, and assisting under the Act Federal and State efforts to create opportunities for older individuals to participate in multigenerational activities. Requires the evaluation of programs for their effectiveness in targeting for services low-income minority older individuals. Requires a Commissioner evaluation of nutrition services provided during FY 1992 through 1993. Requires the Secretary to: (1) submit to the President, the Speaker of the House, and the President pro tempore of the Senate recommendations to improve nutrition service programs provided under the Act; and (2) require the Commissioner to implement such recommendations. Changes funding provisions under provisions regarding the evaluation of such programs. Establishes in the Administration the Office of Federal Long-Term Care Ombudsman to be headed by the Federal Long-Term Care Ombudsman who shall: (1) advocate, monitor, and coordinate Federal and State activities of long-term care ombudsmen under the Act; (2) administer the National Ombudsman Resource Center; (3) report annually to the Congress on the effectiveness of services under State long-term care ombudsman programs; and (4) have authority to investigate the violation of any Federal law administered by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that may adversely affect older individuals. Authorizes appropriations for salaries and expenses of the Administration through FY 1995. Reauthorizes and extends title III (Grants for State and Community Programs on Aging) programs through FY 1995. Increases the minimum State allotment for outreach services for the Supplemental Security Income and Medicaid programs (titles XVI and XIX, respectively, of the Social Security Act) and the Food Stamp program. Changes the requirements with respect to a State agency's development of a formula for the distribution of title III grant funds to require the formula to take into account the State's low-income minority elderly. Requires the Commissioner to consider the effectiveness of State and local efforts to target older individuals with the greatest economic need (including low-income minority individuals) and older individuals with the greatest social need (including minority individuals) to receive services under the Act in preparing his report on evaluations to be included in the annual report to the Congress on Administration activities. Makes miscellaneous and technical amendments to area and State plan provisions, including conforming changes to reflect the above-mentioned conflict of interest prohibitions to maintain integrity in all contractual and commercial relationships under the Act. Sets new limits on the amount of funds a State may elect to transfer between the programs under part B (Supportive Services) and part C (Nutrition Services) under title III of the Act for FY 1992 through 1994. Caps at 30 percent the maximum amount of funds a State may elect to transfer between subpart I (Congregate Nutrition Services) and subpart II (Home Delivered Nutrition Services) of part C. Ties the funding for disaster relief reimbursements to the total appropriation for title IV of the Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1992 through 1995 for food donated to nutrition serices programs for older individuals. Prohibits the cents per meal level under the program for donating surplus commodities to older individuals from being reduced below 65.66 cents per meal during FY 1992 through 1995. Provides for an annual adjustment for inflation in the elderly meals reimbursement rate for surplus commodities. Requires the supportive services designed to encourage and assist older individuals to use the facilities and services available to them to include language translation services to assist older individuals with limited-English speaking ability to obtain services under the title III State grant program. Includes as supportive services under such program: (1) counseling relating to pension rights and benefits; and (2) information concerning prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of age-related diseases. Changes the name of the program under part F of title III of the Act from the Preventive Health Services program to the Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Services program and outlines specific program services, including informational services relating to Alzheimers disease, to be provided at senior centers and other appropriate sites and programs that provide nutrition services under part C. Adds a new part H under title III of the Act entitled "Supportive Activities for Caregivers Who Provide In-Home Services to Frail Older Individuals." Outlines the supportive activities which may be included under such part, including the provision of information to frail older individuals and their families regarding how to obtain in-home and respite services. Amends title IV (Training, Research, and Discretionary Projects and Programs) of the Act to revise the authorities for education and training, and for R & D, demonstration projects, and other activities. Authorizes grants to minority educational institutions to provide education and training to prepare students for careers in the field of aging. Authorizes demonstration projects for: (1) information and counseling related to pension benefits; (2) foreclosure and eviction assistance and relief services; (3) multigenerational activities; and (4) enhancing private resources in order to provide additional services under the title III State grant program. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1992 through 1995 to carry out title IV of the Act. Requires the Commissioner to submit annually to the Speaker of the House and the President pro tem of the Senate a report that describes each completed project funded under title IV. Requires the Commissioner to: (1) establish by regulation and implement a process to evaluate the results of projects and programs carried out under title IV; and (2) make available to the public each such evaluation and to use it to improve services delivered, or the operation of programs and projects carried out, under the Act. Amends the Older American Community Service Employment Act to make the Older American Community Service Employment Program (the program) applicable to unemployed low-income persons who have poor employment prospects and are fifty-five years of age or older. Revises provisions outlining the authority of the Secretary of Labor with respect to the execution of agreements for furthering the goals and purposes of the program and payment of projects costs to: (1) condition payment of project costs upon the Secretary's determination that the project will prepare an assessment of the participant's skills and talents, need for supportive services, and physical capabilities, except under prescribed conditions; and (2) require (currently, authorize) the Secretary to increase the amount available for paying project administration costs whenever the Secretary determines that it is necessary to carry out the project. Requires the coordination of second career training and job placement experimental projects with training programs for older individuals under the Job Training Partnership Act. Requires the Secretary to coordinate the administration of the program with the Commissioner's administration of the title III, IV, and X programs under the Older Americans Act of 1965 to facilitate access to services under such titles by individuals eligible for employment opportunities under the program. Requires the Secretary to promote and coordinate carrying out projects under the program jointly with programs, projects, or activities under other Acts that provide training and employment opportunities to eligible individuals. Requires additional considerations, including the relative distribution of eligible minority individuals, in making an equitable distribution of assistance for community service employment programs for older Americans among areas within each State. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1992 through 1995 for community service employment for older Americans. Permits certain legalized aliens to receive assistance under the Older Americans Community Service Act of 1965 without such assistance being considered prohibited public assistance under the Immigration and Nationality Act. Provides for dual eligibility with respect to community service employment projects carried out jointly with programs under the Job Training Partnership Act. Amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to place restrictions on grants to eligible tribal organizations to pay all of the costs for delivery of supportive and nutrition services for older Indians. Requires applications for such grants to contain assurances that the tribal organization will coordinate such services with services provided under the title III State grant program in the same geographic area. Requires similar assurances with respect to applications by organizations for grants under the Native Hawaiian program. Authorizes increased appropriations to carry out the Indian and Native Hawaiian programs under title X (Grants for Native Americans) through FY 1995 of which: (1) 90 percent shall be available to carry out the Indian program; and (2) ten percent shall be available to carry out the Native Hawaiian program. Title II: 1993 National Conference on Aging - Amends the Older Americans Act Amendments of 1987 to direct the President to convene a 1993 National Conference on Aging. Revises Conference administrative provisions, including those regarding conference and related administrative committees. Replaces references in Conference reporting provisions to the Secretary of HHS with references to the new Governing Committee created under the above mentioned administrative provisions to direct the Conference to, among other changes, make the Committee responsible for formulating and approving the Conference's final report. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1992 and 1993 to carry out the Conference. Title III: Amendments to the Native American Programs Act of 1974 - Native American Programs Act Amendments of 1991 - Amends the Native American Programs Act (the Act) of 1974 to establish in HHS' Office of the Administration for Children and Families an Administration for Native Americans as the agency responsible for carrying out Native American programs under the Act. Directs the Secretary to establish an intra-agency task force to review and comment on all policies and practices of agencies in HHS relating to programs affecting Indians, Alaskan Natives, and Native Hawaiians. Extends a demonstration project involving the establishment of a revolving loan fund to promote the economic development of Native Hawaiians. Authorizes appropraitions for FY 1992 for carrying out such project. Repeals provisions regarding the deposit of unneeded monies as miscellaneous receipts in the Treasury. Revises congressional reporting requirements applicable to such project to require annual reports on administration of the project along with specified information concerning loans from the fund. Mandates (currently, authorizes) the provision of technical assistance and training for Native American projects receiving financial assistance under the Act. Requires such projects to be evaluated not less frequently than at three-year intervals. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1992 through 1995 to carry out the provisions of the Act (other than provisions concerning grants to improve tribal regulation of environmental quality). Title IV: General Provisions - States that any authority to enter into contracts under any amendment made by this Act shall be effective only to the extent or in such amounts as are provided in advance in appropriations Acts. Sets forth the effective dates of this Act and its amendments.

Bill· HRH.R. 3001 (102nd)referred

National Advanced Materials Processing and Research and Development Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 1991

National Advanced Materials Processing and Research and Development Act of 1991 - Requires the National Critical Materials Council to establish a National Strategic Plan for Advanced Materials Processing, Synthesis, and Research and Development (Strategic Plan). Requires the Director of the National Science Foundation to establish up to ten National Advanced Materials Processing and Synthesis Centers for collaboration among industry, universities, research groups, and government entitles. Directs the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Energy, the Director of the National Science Foundation, and the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to establish within each of their departments or agencies a competitive grants program of Advanced Materials Principal Investigator Awards to provide funding for research and development by individual investigators on specific topics of interest in the advancement of materials science and engineering. Requires each of such departments and agencies to establish a Graduate Fellowship Program for Materials Processing and Synthesis to enable research and work in affiliation with the awarding department or agency, to be awarded on the basis of academic merit. Authorizes appropriations.

Law· HRH.R. 2950 (102nd)enacted

Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 1991

Intermodal Surface Transportation Infrastructure Act of 1991 - Declares that: (1) it is a goal of the United States to develop a national intermodal transportation (IT) system that moves people and goods in an energy efficient manner; and (2) the nation's future economic direction is dependent on its ability to confront directly the challenges of the global economy, declining productivity growth, energy vulnerability, air pollution, and the need to rebuild the nation's infrastructure. Title I: Federal-Aid Highways - Declares that the authorizations of appropriations and apportionments for construction of the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways (Interstate System - IS) made by this Act are the final authorizations of appropriations and apportionments for completion of construction of the IS. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to apportion for all States (other than Massachusetts) for FY 1993 specified sums authorized for such year by the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 for expenditure on the IS, based on the apportionment factors contained in Committee Print 102-10 of the House Committee on Public Works and Transportation. Extends specified apportionments for the IS through FY 1997. Authorizes appropriations. Sets forth provisions with respect to: (1) obligation ceilings for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs for FY 1992 through 1996, with exceptions; and (2) the distribution of, limitation on, and redistribution of unused, obligation authority. Authorizes appropriations from the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) for: (1) the State flexible program; (2) the National Highway System (NHS); (3) the urban mobility system (UMS); (4) the rural mobility system (RMS); (5) the combined highway safety improvement program; (6) the bridge program; (7) Indian reservation roads; (8) forest highways; (9) public lands highways; (10) parkways and park highways; (11) Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) safety programs; and (12) FHWA safety research and development programs. Requires: (1) that not less than ten percent of the amounts authorized to be appropriated under titles I and III of this Act be expended with small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, with exceptions; (2) each State to annually survey and compile a list of disadvantaged business enterprises and the location of such concerns in the State, and notify the Secretary, in writing, of the percentage of such concerns which are controlled by women, by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals other than women, and by individuals who are women and also otherwise socially and economically disadvantaged individuals; and (3) the Secretary to establish minimum uniform criteria for State governments to use in certifying whether a concern qualifies as a disadvantaged business enterprise. Specifies that: (1) with respect to highway, safety, and motor carrier budget authority, $5,200,000,000 provided in each of FY 1992 through 1995, and $5,600,000,000 in FY 1996, shall be attributed to estimated revenues resulting from four cents of a five-cent increase in the gas tax effective FY 1992, as provided in this Act; (2) with respect to transit budget authority, $1,300,000,000 provided in each of FY 1992 through 1995, and $1,400,000,000 in FY 1996, shall be attributed to estimated revenues resulting from one cent of such gas tax increase; and (3) excess budget amounts and accompanying outlays shall be considered direct spending for pay-as-you-go and deficit control purposes of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. Prohibits the use of excess revenues for other purposes. Sets forth additional provisions with respect to the apportionment of funds and the designation and use of pay-as-you-go funds. Restructures the Federal-aid highway program by reorganizing it into four Federal-aid systems: (1) the IS; (2) the NHS; (3) the UMS; and (4) the RMS. Requires: (1) each State to functionally reclassify the roads and streets in such State; and (2) the Secretary to approve and submit a report to the Congress containing such reclassification by September 30, 1992. Directs the Secretary to establish a flexible program under which a State may expend funds apportioned to it for carrying out any project or activity for which Federal funds may be obligated under Federal highway provisions. Includes among eligible NHS projects: (1) construction, resurfacing, and rehabilitation of segments of such system; (2) highway safety improvements for segments of such system; (3) highway-related technology transfer activities; (3) public transportation; (4) fringe and corridor parking; (5) carpool and vanpool projects; and (6) bicycle transportation. Includes among eligible UMS and RMS systems: (1) construction, resurfacing, and rehabilitation of segments of such system; (2) highway safety improvements; (3) public transportation; (4) transportation planning; (5) highway-related and public transportation-related technology transfer activities; (6) bicycle transportation and and pedestrian walkways; (7) landscaping, scenic enhancement, and planting of wild flowers; and (8) participation in wetland mitigation banks and statewide programs to create, conserve, or enhance wetland habitat. Authorizes appropriations under the interstate substitute program for highway and transit projects. Sets forth provisions with respect to apportionments: (1) under the interstate substitute program; and (2) for the NHS, RMS, UMS, and the State flexible program. Limits the transferability of NHS apportionments, but provides special transferability rules for nonattainment areas for carbon monoxide or ozone under the Clean Air Act (CAA). Revises program and project approval provisions to bar the Secretary from approving: (1) projects after September 30, 1992, which are not included in a transportation improvement program (TIP); (2) any program of projects in an urbanized area not based on the planning process (under Federal highway provisions) and without consideration by the State of the views of responsible public officials of the affected area; (3) a highway project (other than a project for construction of high occupancy vehicle lanes) in an urbanized area of more than 200,000 population which will significantly increase the motor vehicle carrying capacity of a highway facility unless the project is consistent with a congestion management system for such area; and (4) a highway project which has associated with it a project for the construction of a pedestrian walkway or a bicycle transportation facility under the State TIP unless the Secretary first approves such pedestrian walkway or bicycle transportation project, with exceptions. Directs the Secretary, in approving programs for: (1) NHS projects in non-urbanized areas, to require that such projects be selected by the State in consultation with appropriate local officials; (2) RMS projects, to require that such projects be selected by the State highway department, appropriate local officials, and Indian tribal governments in cooperation with each other, with exceptions; (3) NHS projects, to give preference to such projects as will expedite the completion of an adequate and connected system of highways interstate in character; (4) UMS projects, to require that such projects be selected by the designated metropolitan planning organization (MPO) in consultation with the State; and (5) Federal-aid systems, to give priority to projects which incorporate improved standards and features with safety benefits. Authorizes the Secretary, in approving programs, to give priority of approval to, and expedite the construction of, projects that are recommended by specified officials as important to the national defense. Specifies that, in preparing programs to submit for approval, the Secretary and the State: (1) shall give consideration to projects providing direct and convenient public access to public airports, public ports for water transportation, new town communities, and new town-intown communities; and (2) may give priority to projects for the reconstruction, resurfacing, restoration, or rehabilitation of highways which are incurring a substantial use as a result of transportation activities to meet national energy requirements and which will continue to incur such use. Sets forth provisions with respect to preconstruction activities and contracting for engineering and design services. Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress a national list of rights-of-way identified by the MPOs and the States, including a strategy for preventing further loss of rights-of-way and the desirability of creating a Transportation Right-of-Way Land Bank to preserve vital corridors. Authorizes the States, MPOs, or units of local government (using NHS, UMS, or RMS funds) to purchase threatened rights-of-way subject to certain limitations. Directs the Secretary, in approving such purchases, to give priority to those rights-of-way most imminently threatened with being lost to transportation purposes. Sets forth provisions regarding the availability of Federal funds, set asides for discretionary and 4R (resurfacing, restoring, rehabilitating, and reconstructing) projects, and the Federal share of IS and other Federal-aid highway projects. Bars States from allowing a longer combination vehicle (LCV) to be operated on the IS within its boundaries without having its apportionment of funds withheld, unless authorized under this Act. Authorizes a State to continue to allow LCVs lawfully operated on June 1, 1991, to operate on the IS within its boundaries, subject to specified requirements. Establishes separate requirements for the State of Wyoming. Makes additional exceptions with respect to the operation of certain specialized hauling vehicles on Interstate Route 68 in Garrett and Allegany Counties, Maryland. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study of State and Federal regulations pertaining to transporters of water well drilling rigs on public highways to identify requirements which place a burden on such transporters without enhancing safety or preservation of public highways and to report to the Congress within two years on the results of such study. Exempts firefighting vehicles from axle weight limitations and the bridge formula for vehicles using the IS for two years, subject to renewal for an additional year. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study of State laws regulating the use on the IS of such vehicles and the issuance of permits by States exempting such vehicles from such requirements to determine whether or not: (1) such State laws and Federal highway provisions need to be modified; (2) a permanent exemption should be made for such vehicles; or (3) the bridge formula should be modified as it applies to such vehicles. Sets forth reporting requirements. Directs the Secretary to permit Federal participation in initial construction (current law authorizes such participation in construction) and 4R projects with respect to toll highways, bridges, or tunnels, and conversion of toll-free bridges or tunnels to toll facilities on the same basis as Federal participation is permitted in the construction of free highways. Sets forth provisions with respect to ownership of such facilities, limitations on the use of revenues and on the Federal share, and modification of agreements to allow Federal participation. Eliminates the public operation requirement for toll ferries. Directs the Secretary to void certain agreements with respect to: (1) the Fort McHenry Tunnel, Maryland; and (2) the I-78 Delaware River Bridge. Replaces railway-highway crossing provisions with provisions for a combined highway safety improvement program, under which each State shall: (1) conduct and systematically maintain an engineering survey of all highways to identify hazardous locations, as well as railroad crossings which may require separation, relocation, or protective devices; (2) assign priorities for correction; and (3) establish and implement a schedule of projects for improvements so identified. Sets the Federal share for projects under such program at 80 percent of the cost. Authorizes the Secretary to classify the various types of projects involved in the elimination of hazards of railway-highway crossings and set for each classification a percentage of the costs of construction deemed to represent the net benefit to the railroads for the purpose of determining the railroads' share of construction costs. Sets forth provisions with respect to liability for construction costs, discharge of liability, and enforcement of Act requirements. Provides for the apportionment of funds. Directs the Secretary to set aside $300,000 for Operation Life Saver (a public information and education program to prevent and reduce motor vehicle accidents, injuries, and fatalities, and to improve driver performance at railway-highway crossings). Authorizes the use of funds by local governments for the improvement of railway-highway crossings under specified circumstances. Requires each State to: (1) establish an evaluation process to assess results achieved by highway safety improvement projects and develop cost-benefit data for various types of corrections and treatments which shall be used in setting priorities for such projects; and (2) submit progress reports to the Secretary by December 30 of each year. Directs the Secretary to: (1) initiate a rulemaking proceeding to revise the guidelines and standards for the installation of roadside crash cushions; and (2) coordinate the field testing of the vehicle proximity alert system and comparable systems to determine their feasibility for use by priority vehicles as an effective railroad-highway grade crossing safety device (and, if feasible, to develop and implement programs to install such devices). Sets forth provisions with respect to the control of outdoor advertising. Directs MPOs, in cooperation with the State, to develop transportation plans and programs for urbanized areas of the State which provide for the development of transportation facilities (including pedestrian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities) which will function as an IT system for the State and such urbanized areas. Provides for the designation or redesignation of MPOs for each urbanized area of the State. Sets forth provisions with respect to the area covered by the transportation planning process and the factors to be considered in developing transportation plans and programs, such as: (1) applicable Federal, State, and local energy conservation programs, goals, and objectives; (2) applicable CAA requirements; (3) methods to reduce traffic congestion; (4) the effect of transportation decisions on land use and development; (5) the use of innovative mechanisms for financing projects; and (6) long-range needs of transportation systems in the urbanized area. Sets forth special rules for urbanized areas of greater than 200,000 population. Requires MPOs designated for urbanized areas, in cooperation with the State, to develop a long range transportation plan and a TIP for such area. Requires biennial review and approval of TIPs. Directs the Secretary to establish in the Department of Transportation (DOT) an advisory committee to review: (1) the planning process being utilized by MPOs; (2) the composition and organization of such MPOs; (3) the impact on such MPOs of changing demographics and increased responsibilities under Federal highway provisions and under the CAA; and (4) the relationship between the MPO and statewide planning processes. Sets forth reporting requirements. Sets forth provisions with respect to statewide planning that are analogous to those for metropolitan planning. Authorizes: (1) the Secretary to develop highway construction training and assistance programs in cooperation with Indian tribal governments; and (2) the States to implement a preference for employment of Indians on projects carried out under this title near Indian reservations. Authorizes: (1) the use of RMS or UMS funds for capital improvement to provide access and coordination between intercity and rural bus service, and for construction of facilities to provide connections between highway transportation and other modes of transportation; and (2) the Secretary to approve as a project on any Federal-aid system modifications to existing highway facilities on such system necessary to accommodate other modes of transportation if such modifications will not adversely affect automotive safety or future highway improvements. Makes public mass transportation projects in urbanized areas subject to metropolitan planning requirements under this Act. Directs the Secretary to: (1) inventory all highway bridges on Indian reservation roads and park bridges; (2) classify them according to serviceability, safety, and essentiality for public use; (3) assign each a priority for replacement or rehabilitation; and (4) determine the cost of replacing each such bridge with a comparable facility or of rehabilitating such bridge. Authorizes the Secretary to approve Federal participation in the painting of, or application of calcium magnesium acetate to, the structure of highway bridges upon application by a State for assistance. Provides for the apportionment of discretionary bridge program funds. Authorizes the expenditure of certain funds to rehabilitate, paint, or apply calcium magnesium acetate to highway bridges located on public roads other than those on the Federal-aid system. Requires a set-aside for such activities with respect to Indian reservation bridges. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out specified high cost bridge projects. Authorizes appropriations. Makes permanent the extension of the 65 miles per hour speed limit demonstration program. Directs the Secretary to issue regulations with respect to: (1) the monitoring of programs conducted by the States to ensure uniformity; (2) the placing of devices and equipment at such locations on maximum speed limit highways on a scientifically random basis which takes into account the relative risk of motor vehicle accidents occurring, considering the classes of such highways and the speeds at which vehicles are traveling. Sets forth a formula for the transfer of a State's apportionment of Federal highway funds if such State fails to adequately enforce the speed limit. Requires a State to obligate at least 50 percent of any funds transferred under this title for a fiscal year for speed limit enforcement and public information and education. Requires the Secretary to carry out such provisions through the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA). Provides for the transfer of certain FHWA personnel to the NHTSA to carry out such provisions. Directs the Secretary, on October 1 or as soon as possible thereafter in FY 1992 and each succeeding fiscal year, to allocate among the States amounts sufficient to ensure that a State's percentage of the total apportionments in each fiscal year under Federal highway provisions shall not be less than 90 percent of the percentage of estimated tax payments attributable to highway users in such State paid into the HTF (other than the Mass Transit Account) in the latest fiscal year for which data is available. Authorizes a State, subject to approval by the Secretary, to obligate: (1) UMS and flexible program funds for the construction of pedestrian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities on land adjacent to any highway on a Federal-aid system (other than the IS); and (2) NHS funds for such construction adjacent to any highway funds, at the discretion of the department charged with the administration of such funds, for the construction of such walkways and facilities in conjunction with trails, roads, highways, and parkways on Federal lands. Requires each State receiving an apportionment under this title to fund, in the State transportation department, a position of bicycle and pedestrian coordinator. Authorizes, with respect to highway bridge deck replacement or rehabilitation, such replacement or rehabilitation so as to provide for the safe accommodation of bicycles, subject to certain conditions. Sets the Federal share of pedestrian walkway and bicycle transportation facility construction at 80 percent. Requires such walkways and facilities to be located and designed pursuant to an overall plan with due consideration for safety and contiguous routes. Limits the use of motorized vehicles on pedestrian walkways and trails under this title. Requires that: (1) two percent of funds made available for Indian reservation roads for each fiscal year be allocated to those Indian tribal governments applying for transportation planning; and (2) the Indian tribal government develop a TIP that includes all Indian reservation road projects proposed for funding. Directs the Secretary to: (1) conduct a study on differences between the use of funds out of the HTF on, and the designation of roads as, Indian reservation roads and rural mobility highways; and (2) report to the Congress on the results, together with any recommendations for correcting inequities identified. Requires the Secretary, within one year, to issue regulations for State development, establishment, and implementation of a system (which may include a compliance schedule and minimum standards) for managing: (1) highway pavement of the Federal-aid system; (2) bridges on and off such system; (3) highway and transportation safety; (4) traffic congestion; (5) public transportation facilities and equipment; and (6) IT facilities and systems. Directs the Secretary to issue guidelines and requirements for the State development, establishment, and implementation of a traffic monitoring system for highways and public transportation facilities and equipment. Sets forth additional provisions with respect to State requirements, intermodal requirements, reporting requirements, and funding. Authorizes appropriations for congestion relief projects. Directs the Secretary to: (1) carry out research, development, and technology transfer activities to promote the safe operation and maintenance of commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce; and (2) make grants to, and enter into cooperative agreements with, a not-for-profit membership organization that has been engaged exclusively in truck-related research and education since 1985. Sets the Federal share of such activities at 100 percent. Authorizes appropriations. Sets forth reporting requirements. Prohibits: (1) the discovery (current law only bars the admission as evidence) of certain reports and surveys compiled to develop a highway safety construction improvement project to enhance the safety of potential accident sites or hazardous conditions; and (2) the Secretary from using iron in highway or urban transit projects (current law specifies only steel and manufactured products used in such projects) that has not be produced in the United States. Sets forth provisions with respect to: (1) relocation assistance regulations relating to the Rural Electrification Administration; (2) a temporary matching fund waiver regarding qualifying State projects; (3) repayment of increases in the Federal share; and (4) deductions from State apportionments where a State has not made the required repayment on or before March 30, 1994. Identifies high priority corridors on the NHS. Directs the Secretary to: (1) include all such corridors on the proposed NHS submitted to the Congress; (2) prepare a long-range plan for the upgrading of each corridor to the appropriate standard for highways on the NHS, including separate plans for developing the corridor and financing the development; (3) prepare feasibility and design studies, as necessary, for those corridors for which such studies have not been prepared; and (4) use procedures for acceleration of projects in carrying out projects on high priority corridors. Requires each State in which a priority segment is located to prepare a detailed plan for completion of construction of such segment and for financing such construction. Authorizes appropriations. Sets forth criteria for States to use in selecting high priority segments of corridors of national significance. Authorizes appropriations out of the HTF for feasibility and design studies under this title. Directs the Secretary to establish a Priority Corridor Revolving Loan Fund. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants under a highway bridge research and demonstration program. Directs the Secretary to: (1) take such action as necessary to ensure that information and technology resulting from such research is made available to State and local transportation departments and other interested persons; and (2) make grants to States for construction of highway timber bridges on the RMS. Sets forth provisions with respect to applications, approval criteria, the Federal share, and funding for such grants. Requires the Secretary to carry out a program for ferry boat construction. Bars the Secretary from disapproving, for five years, a highway project solely on the ground that it includes the use of asphalt containing recycled rubber. Directs the Secretary to: (1) gather information and recommendations concerning such use in highway projects from those States that have extensively researched and experimented with such use and make available such information and recommendations to interested States; and (2) conduct a study on such use, the benefits of such use, and the utilization of other recycled materials in asphalt and report the results within two years to the Congress. Directs the Secretary to carry out highway use tax evasion projects, subject to specified limitations. Authorizes the Secretary to allocate specified funds to the Internal Revenue Service and the States for such purposes. Requires the Secretary to establish an advisory committee to prepare a plan to carry out and coordinate highway use tax evasion projects, monitor the results, provide progress reports to the Secretary, and make recommendations to the Secretary for the distribution of funds. Sets forth provisions with respect to: (1) termination of such committee; (2) State certification requirements (that the State will maintain motor fuel tax enforcement activities at a certain level); (3) reporting requirements; and (4) funding of such projects. Authorizes the Secretary to approve substitute highway, bus transit, and light rail transit projects in lieu of construction of the I-94 East-West Transitway project in Milwaukee and Waukesha counties, Wisconsin. Directs the Army Corps of Engineers, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the FHWA to suspend, for a period of five years from completion of Interstate Route 287 in New Jersey (NJ), the enforcement or implementation of the requirement of the Corps' permit, with respect to the construction of such route, that a wetland mitigation site in Wayne, New Jersey, be in place prior to the opening of the route. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish within DOT an advisory committee to assist the Secretary with respect to the establishment of a national scenic byways program; and (2) provide technical assistance and make grants to the States for the planning, design, and development of State scenic byways programs. Sets forth provisions with respect to: (1) the membership, function, and reporting requirements of such committee; (2) the Federal share (80 percent); and (3) additional funding provisions. Directs the Secretary to carry out a highway project in Arkansas to demonstrate: (1) the benefits of providing training to county and town traffic officials in the need for and application of uniform traffic control devices; and (2) the safety benefits of providing for adequate and safe warning and regulatory signs. Authorizes appropriations. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out specified: (1) rural access projects; and (2) urban access and mobility projects. Authorizes appropriations. Directs: (1) the Secretary to carry out a project to make modifications to bridges necessary for the Secretary of the Army to carry out a project for flood control at Molly Ann's Brook, New Jersey; and (2) the Governor of New Jersey to carry out all the responsibilities of the Secretary with respect to a highway construction project in Passaic County, New Jersey. Sets forth provisions with respect to certain regulatory interpretations concerning: (1) the coating of steel; and (2) the funding of fusees and flares. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study of the progress being made by the States in adopting and implementing a uniform system for handicapped parking. Sets forth reporting requirements. Requires: (1) not less than five percent of the mileage of roadside barriers installed along Federal-aid highways within the boundaries of a State in each calendar year to be innovative safety barriers; and (2) each State to annually certify to the Secretary the Secretary compliance with such requirement. Directs the Secretary to conduct a survey to identify current State standards (to determine the necessity of upgrading such standards to enhance highway safety) relating to geometric design, traffic control devices, roadside safety, safety appurtenance design, uniform traffic control devices, and sign legibility and directional clarity for all Federal-aid highways, taking into consideration posted speed limits as they relate to highway design. Sets forth reporting requirements. Sets forth: (1) the effective date of this title; and (2) provisions with respect to the availability and transferability of unobligated balances. Authorizes appropriations. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out specified advanced technology projects. Authorizes appropriations. Title II: Highway Safety - Requires (as a prerequisite to the Secretary's approval) that each State's highway safety program include the following programs: (1) drunk driving; (2) speeding; (3) occupant protection; (4) emergency medical services; (5) uniform data collection and reporting; (6) accident location; (7) highway design, construction, and maintenance; and (8) traffic engineering. Permits the Secretary to approve a State's highway safety program only if it includes three or more of the following programs: (1) bicycle safety; (2) pedestrian safety; (3) school bus safety; (4) traffic record system; (5) police traffic services; (6) motorcycle safety; and (7) such other programs as the Secretary may establish by regulation. Bars the Secretary from approving a State highway safety program that does not provide: (1) that at least 40 percent of Federal funds apportioned to the State for a fiscal year be expended by the political subdivisions of the State, including Indian tribal governments (current law makes no mention of tribal governments); and (2) adequate and reasonable access for the safe and convenient movement of individuals with disabilities (currently, physically handicapped persons). Authorizes the Secretary to waive the 40 percent requirement whenever the Secretary determines that there are an insufficient number of local highway safety programs to justify the expenditure in the State of such percentage of Federal funds during the fiscal year. Directs the Secretary to issue regulations establishing minimum standards for State highway safety programs to be approved under this title which: (1) with respect to the drunk driving, speeding, occupant protection, and police traffic services programs, must include public information, education, and law enforcement components; and (2) may require a State highway safety program to include adoption and enforcement of State law authorizing the use of automatic speed detection devices by law enforcement officers. Specifies that such highway safety requirements and regulations shall, to the extent deemed appropriate by the Secretary, be applicable to federally administered areas where a Federal agency controls the highways or supervises traffic operations. Applies provisions of this title to Indian reservations. Specifies that 95 percent of the funds apportioned to the Secretary of the Interior under this title shall be expended by Indian tribes to carry out highway safety programs within their jurisdictions. Bars the admission as evidence, or use in any action for damages, of traffic record system data. Sets forth reporting requirements with respect to legislation necessary to implement programs developed by the Secretary to reduce traffic-related deaths and injuries. Revises highway safety research and development provisions to authorize the Secretary to: (1) use appropriated funds to engage in research on all phases of highway safety and traffic conditions; and (2) undertake, on a cost-shared basis, collaborative research and development with non-Federal entities which may include crash data collection and analysis, driver and pedestrian behavior, and demonstrations of technology. Bars the Secretary from agreeing to provide more than 50 percent of the cost of any such research and development project. Revises drunk driving provisions to authorize the Secretary to make grants to States which adopt and implement effective programs to reduce traffic safety problems resulting from persons driving while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance. Requires States, to be eligible for basic grants, to provide for: (1) the prompt suspension, for a period of not less than 90 days for a first offender and one year for a repeat offender, of the driver's license of any individual who a law enforcement officer has probable cause under State law to believe has committed an alcohol-related traffic offense and who is determined, based on one or more chemical tests, to be intoxicated or who refuses to submit to such a test; (2) a mandatory sentence, not subject to suspension or probation, of imprisonment for not less than 48 consecutive hours or not less than 100 days of community service, of any person convicted of driving while intoxicated (as defined by this Act) more than once in any five-year period; (3) a statewide program for stopping motor vehicles on a nondiscriminatory, lawful basis to determine whether or not operators of such vehicles are driving while under the influence of alcohol; and (4) a self-sustaining drunk driving prevention program under which a significant portion of the fines or surcharges collected from individuals apprehended and fined for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol are returned, or an equivalent amount of non-Federal funds are provided, to those communities which have comprehensive programs for the prevention of such operation of motor vehicles. Modifies or adds provisions with respect to supplemental grants, limits on administrative expenses, apportionment of funds, and reapportionment of noneligible State funds. Authorizes the Secretary, in the case of a local highway program carried out by an Indian tribe with insufficient funds to meet the non-Federal cost of such program, to increase the Federal share of the cost. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States which have in effect specified State motorcycle helmet and safety belt use laws, to: (1) educate the public about motorcycle and passenger vehicle safety, and motorcycle helmet, safety belt, and child restraint system use and to involve public health education and other related agencies in such efforts; and (2) train law enforcement officers in the enforcement of, monitor the rate or compliance with, and enforce, such laws. Sets forth provisions with respect to: (1) the maintenance of State expenditures for traffic safety programs; (2) the Federal share of the cost; (3) eligibility requirements; (4) measuring rates of compliance; and (5) penalties for failing to have in effect such laws. Authorizes appropriations. Authorizes appropriations for: (1) NHTSA highway safety programs; and (2) the alcohol traffic safety incentive grant program. Directs the Secretary, acting through the NHTSA, to establish a regional program for implementation of drug recognition programs and for training law enforcement officers to recognize and identify individuals who are operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or one or more controlled substances or other drugs. Authorizes appropriations. Amends the National Driver Register Act of 1982 to make authorizations of appropriations for highway safety educational programming and a study of the use of mass media to educate the public about ways of reducing the number and severity of highway accidents. Title III: Federal Transit Act of 1991 - Federal Transit Act of 1991 - Amends Federal law to rename the Urban Mass Transportation Administration of the Department of Transportation the Federal Transit Administration. Amends the Urban Mass Transportation Act of 1964 (the Act) to delete specified provisions relating to the authority of the Secretary of Transportation (Secretary) to issue letters of intent with respect to grants and loans for mass transportation projects. Directs the Secretary to apportion certain amounts for FY 1992 through 1996 for rail and guideway modernization for certain urbanized areas. Earmarks a portion of the funds made available for construction of new fixed guideway systems and extensions for obligation at the Secretary's discretion for systems planning, alternative analysis, and preliminary engineering. Earmarks a specified amount at the Secretary's discretion for grants to States and local public bodies and agencies to prevent crime and to increase security in existing and future transit systems. Revises certain criteria to prohibit the making of grants or loans for construction of new fixed guideway systems or extensions unless such proposed projects: (1) have undergone a cost-effectiveness analysis; and (2) are included, after September 30, 1992, in a transportation improvement program. Requires the Secretary to report annually to specified congressional committees on factors which the Secretary considers they should use in authorizing such projects. Allocates on a percentage basis grants or loans for mass transportation projects for FY 1992 through 1996 for: (1) rail modernization; (2) construction of new fixed guideway systems and extensions to such systems;(3) replacement, rehabilitation, and purchase of buses and related equipment and the construction of bus-related facilities; and (4) apportionments to States for eligible capital projects and Federal highway programs. Prohibits States (other than the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Virgin Islands) from receiving for any fiscal year beginning after September 30, 1991, less than one-third of one percent of funds available from the Mass Transit Account of the Highway Trust Fund for transportation projects under this Act. Treats such named territories together as one State. Makes provisions of title 23 of the United States Code (relating to Federal-aid highway projects) applicable to State projects that are funded under this Act. Sets at 80 percent (or any lower percentage mandated) the Federal share of costs with respect to Federal-aid highway and mass transportation projects. Authorizes the remainder of net project costs of a planned extension to a fixed guideway system to include the cost of rolling stock previously purchased if an applicant demonstrates that such purchase was made: (1) solely with non-Federal funds; and (2) for use on such extension. Increases the percentages of block grant funds available for expenditure for mass transportation projects in urbanized areas with more than, and less than, a population of 200,000, respectively. Extends the Secretary's authority to investigate safety conditions of mass transportation projects financed under the block grant program. Redefines the term "associated capital maintenance items" to include supplies. Provides for an annual increase in the amount of mass transportation funds that may be used for operating assistance by urbanized areas regardless of size (currently, for urbanized areas with less than a population of 200,000). Authorizes States to transfer their apportionment of mass transportation block grant funds for urbanized areas with populations with less than 200,000 to their apportionment for Federal-aid highway projects. Requires contracts for engineering and design services with respect to mass transportation projects to be performed and audited in compliance with cost principles contained in the Federal acquisition regulations of the Code of Federal Regulations. Defines "transit" to mean mass transportation. Authorizes the Secretary to transfer to any public body for any public purpose facilities and equipment and other assets (including land) acquired by a recipient of Federal transportation funds but no longer needed. Sets forth specified determinations to be made by the Secretary with respect to the transfer of such assets for purposes other than for mass transportation. Defines a turnkey system project as a vendor-specific project under which a recipient contracts with a vendor to build a transit system that meets specific performance criteria and which is operated by such vendor for a period of time. Authorizes the Secretary to allow the solicitation for a turnkey system project to be conditionally awarded before Federal requirements are met so long as such award is made without prejudice to such requirements. Authorizes transit service providers who receive Federal transportation assistance under programs for elderly and handicapped persons and rural transportation programs to assist in providing meal delivery service for homebound persons if such service does not conflict with the provision, or result in a reduction, of mass transportation services. Authorizes States to transfer portions of their apportionment of formula grants for public transportation projects in rural areas to their apportionment for Federal-aid highway projects. Requires the Secretary, before apportioning any such formula grants after September 30, 1991, to set aside a specified amount for the development and support of intercity bus transportation. Defines the term "construction" with regard to transportation construction projects to include acquisition of materials and supplies. Authorizes appropriations from the Treasury and the Mass Transit Account of the Highway Trust Fund for FY 1992 through 1996 for: (1) block grants for mass transportation projects in urbanized areas; (2) formula grants for public transportation projects in rural areas; (3) mass transportation and construction projects; (4) rural transportation programs; (5) mass transportation services for elderly and handicapped persons; (6) projects for the deployment of innovative techniques and methods in the management and operation of public transportation services; (7) transportation research, development, and demonstration projects; (8) long-range transportation planning programs and technical studies; (9) grants to public and private nonprofit educational institutions to assist in establishing comprehensive research in the problems of transportation urban areas; (10) rural transit assistance programs; (11) human resources programs in public transportation activities; (12) administrative expenses of the Secretary; and (13) university transportation centers. Makes funds available from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) for FY 1992 through 1996 for such transportation centers. Makes specified Federal transportation funds available to the Secretary for making grants, or entering into contracts, for: (1) transportation research, development, and demonstration projects; (2) long-range transportation planning programs and technical studies; (3) fellowships for training of personnel employed in managerial, technical, and professional positions in the public transportation field; (4) public and private nonprofit educational institutions to assist in establishing comprehensive research in the problems of transportation in urban areas; (5) rural transit assistance programs; or (6) human resources programs in public transportation activities. Requires the Secretary to make a specified amount of such funds available for transit-related technical assistance, demonstration programs, special demonstration initiatives, research, public education, and other activities that the Secretary deems appropriate to help transit providers comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990. Authorizes the Secretary to undertake a program of transit technology development. Requires the Secretary to establish an industry technical panel to assist in identifying priority technology development areas and in establishing guidelines for project development, project cost sharing, and project execution. Earmarks a specified amount of funds for: (1) State transit cooperative research programs; and (2) State and local transportation planning, research, and training in urbanized areas. Requires the Secretary, as part of the transit cooperative research program, to establish an independent governing board to recommend transit research, development, and technology transfer activities. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to, and enter into cooperative agreements with, the National Academy of Sciences to implement such activities. Requires the Secretary to report biennially to specified congressional committees an estimate of the future transit needs of the Nation, including in rural areas (particularly access to health care facilities). Requires the Secretary to enter into a full funding grant agreement for the provision of Federal transportation assistance to the New Jersey Urban Core Project. Exempts such project from certain requirements under the Act relating to criteria for new construction of fixed guideway systems. Directs the Secretary to complete a draft environmental impact statement for an extension of the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) to the San Francisco International Airport. Directs the Secretary to make grants to BART and to Santa Clara County Transit District (SCCTD) to conduct preliminary engineering and complete environmental impact statements on the locally preferred alternative for the extension of Bart to the San Francisco International Airport and for the Tasman Corridor Project. Sets forth a schedule for approval of the construction of such projects. Directs the Secretary, upon such approval, to execute a multiyear grant agreement with BART to permit the expenditure of funds for the construction of the BART San Francisco International Airport Extension and with SCCTD for the construction of the Tasman Corridor Project. Requires the Secretary to execute full funding grant agreements (consistent with Metropolitan Transportation Commission Resolution No. 1876) with BART for Colma and the San Francisco International Airport, and with SCCTD for the Tasman Corridor Project. Directs the Secretary to enter into a full funding grant agreement with a public transportation authority for construction of a suspended light rail system technology pilot project in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Requires the Secretary, not later than April 1, 1992, to complete and publish in the Federal Register a final supplemental environmental impact statement for Minimum Operable Segment-3 (other than the East Side Extension) of the Los Angeles Metro Rail Project. Requires the Secretary to negotiate with the Los Angeles County Transportation Commission on an amendment to a specified full funding contract for construction of Minimum Operable Segment-2 of the Los Angeles Metro Rail Project in order to include construction of Minimum Operable Segment-3, including a commitment for Federal funding for the East Side Extension, in such contract. Directs the Secretary to enter into multiyear grant agreements with certain States for the construction of specified transportation projects. Directs the Federal Transit Administration to allow petroleum violation escrow account funds spent by the New Jersey Transit Corporation on transit improvements to be applied as credit towards the non-Federal match for any transit project funded under the Act. Increases the limitation on operating assistance for the Niagara Frontier Transit Authority by $4,000,000 to provide assistance for the World University Games. Forgives the outstanding balance on a specified grant agreement made to the Fayettville Transit Authority, North Carolina. Extends the repayment period on the outstanding balances due on certain loans made to the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transit Authority. Title IV: Motor Carrier Act of 1991 - Motor Carrier Act of 1991 - Amends the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982 to add as conditions for approval of State plans (to be eligible for commercial motor vehicle safety enforcement grants) that such plans ensure that: (1) activities funded under such Act do not diminish the effectiveness of development and implementation of commercial motor vehicle safety programs; (2) fines imposed and collected by the State for violations of commercial motor vehicle safety regulations will be reasonable and appropriate; and (3) the designated State agency will coordinate the plan with respect to commercial motor vehicle safety with the State highway safety plan. Requires State plans to provide for maintenance of the level of expenditures for enforcement of commercial motor vehicle size and weight limitations, drug interdiction, and State traffic safety laws and regulations as conditions for approval of such plans. Authorizes a State, subject to specified limitations, to use grant funds for: (1) enforcement of commercial motor vehicle size and weight limitations at locations other than fixed weight facilities, at specified geographical locations (such as steep grades or mountainous terrains), or at seaports where intermodal shipping containers enter and exit the United States; (2) detecting the unlawful presence of controlled substances in a commercial motor vehicle or on the person of any occupant of such vehicle; and (3) enforcement of State traffic laws and regulations designed to promote safe operation of commercial motor vehicles. Authorizes appropriations. Makes grants available for expenditure by States for a period of three (currently, one) years, to be available until expended (currently, for the fiscal year and the three succeeding fiscal years). Authorizes the Secretary to deduct up to one (currently, one half) percent of funds made available for administering the grant program in specified fiscal years. Directs the Secretary, on October 1 of each fiscal year, or as soon thereafter as is practicable, to allocate (after making such deduction) among the States whose applications for grants have been approved, the funds authorized to be appropriated for such fiscal year pursuant to criteria established by the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to obligate funds for specified fiscal years for: (1) training of hazardous materials inspectors; (2) commercial motor vehicle information system review; (3) the truck and bus accident data grant program; and (4) research, development, demonstration, and training manuals. Authorizes appropriations for motor carrier safety functions of the FHWA. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) establish, as part of the motor carrier safety information network system of DOT and similar State systems, an information system (paid for by user fees) which will serve as a clearinghouse and depository of information pertaining to State registration and licensing of commercial motor vehicles and the safety fitness of the registrants of such vehicles; and (2) authorize the operation of such system by contract, through an agreement with a State or States, or by designating a third party which represents the interests of the States. Directs the Secretary to: (1) conduct a review of State motor vehicle registration systems pertaining to license tags for commercial motor vehicles; (2) establish standards to ensure uniform data collection and reporting by all States; and (3) include, as part of the information system established under this title, information on the safety fitness of the registrant of the commercial motor vehicle and such other information as the Secretary considers appropriate. Directs the Secretary to make grants to States: (1) to carry out a project to demonstrate methods of establishing an information system which will link the motor carrier safety information network system of DOT and similar State systems with the motor vehicle registration and licensing systems of the States; (2) which agree to adopt, or have adopted, the recommendation of the National Governors' Association with respect to police accident reports for truck and bus accidents; (3) and to other persons for research, development, demonstrations, and information systems designed to promote commercial motor vehicle safety and which will be beneficial to all U.S. jurisdictions; and (4) to assist in educating the motoring public on its shared responsibility with operators of commercial motor vehicles for highway safety. Authorizes the Secretary to pay for the development, printing, and publication of manuals or other materials used in training roadside inspectors of commercial motor vehicles. Prohibits any State, effective January 1, 1994, from requiring a motor carrier holding a certificate or permit (certificate) issued under this title to: (1) file and maintain such certificate; (2) register motor vehicles operated under such certificate; (3) display or carry on any vehicle a decal, stamp, cab card, or other means of identification evidencing the lawfulness of any transportation or service provided under such certificate; or (4) pay a fee with respect to any such activities. Specifies that nothing in this title shall be construed as limiting the authority of a State to require a motor carrier to file and maintain proof of insurance or qualification as a self-insurer. Provides for reimbursements to States for specified loss revenues in FY 1992, subject to certain requirements. Bars States from allowing on the IS and those classes of qualifying Federal-aid primary system highways as designated by the Secretary any commercial motor vehicle with two or more cargo carrying units (not including the truck tractor), whose cargo carrying units are of a length greater than were authorized by State statute or regulation and were being lawfully operated on the IS and such classes of highways on or before June 1, 1991, with specified exceptions. Makes separate requirements for Wyoming. Sets forth provisions with respect to: (1) additional State restrictions; (2) the publication of State laws governing such vehicles; and (3) State certifications (of such vehicles which are permitted), review of certifications, and related requirements. Directs: (1) the Secretary to initiate a rulemaking (within 60 days) and issue a final regulation (within two years) establishing minimum training requirements for operators of LCVs; (2) the Comptroller General to conduct a study of the safety of LCVs; (3) the Secretary to conduct a study comparing the effects of driving LCVs and driving other truck-trailer combination vehicles on drivers, including driver fatigue; and (4) the Secretary to conduct tests with respect to the operations of LCVs. Sets forth reporting requirements. Requires the Secretary to establish a working group to: (1) establish procedures for resolving disputes among States participating in the International Registration Plan (the interstate agreement for the apportionment of vehicle registration fees paid by motor carriers, developed by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators); (2) provide technical assistance to States participating in the Plan; and (3) make grants to States and appropriate persons to facilitate participation in the Plan. Sets forth reporting requirements. Specifies that, after September 30, 1996, no State (other than a State which is participating in the Plan) shall establish, maintain, or enforce any law or regulation which limits the operation of any commercial motor vehicle within its borders which is not registered under the laws of the State if the vehicle is registered under the laws of any other State. Authorizes: (1) and directs the Attorney General, upon the request of the Secretary, to institute a civil action for injunctive relief to assure compliance with such vehicle registration requirement; and (2) the court to issue a mandatory injunction (and directs the court to issue a temporary restraining order or preliminary or permanent injunction, upon a proper showing) to assure such compliance. Authorizes appropriations. Permits a common carrier to establish a rate and related rule equal to the rate charged for the transportation of one individual when that rate is for the transportation of: (1) a disabled individual and accompanying attendant (as under current law) or animal trained to assist the individual, or both, when required because of the disability; or (2) a hearing-impaired individual and a dog trained to assist the individual. Title V: Intermodal Transportation - Declares it to be Government policy to encourage and promote a national IT system in the United States. Includes among the duties of the Secretary to coordinate Federal policy on IT and initiate policies to promote efficient IT in the United States. Requires: (1) the Secretary to establish within DOT an Office of Intermodalism, headed by a Director; and (2) the Director to develop and maintain an IT data base (and make information from such data base available to private individuals and public agencies), to be responsible for coordinating Federal research on IT and for carrying out research needs identified by the National Commission on Intermodal Transportation (established pursuant to this Act), and to provide technical assistance to States and MPOs in urban areas having a population of 1,000,000 or more in collecting data relating to IT to facilitate the collection of such data. Directs the Secretary to make grants to not more than six States for the purpose of developing model State IT plans, including systems for collecting data relating to IT, subject to specified requirements. Establishes a National Commission on Intermodal Transportation to investigate and study IT in the United States and internationally, including: (1) intermodal standardization; (2) intermodal impacts on public works infrastructure; (3) legal impediments to efficient IT; (4) financial impediments; (5) new technologies; (6) documentation; (7) research and development; and (8) productivity. Sets forth provisions with respect to the membership and qualifications, and termination, of such Commission, compensation, terms of office, vacancies, travel expenses, staff, administrative support, and obtaining official data. Sets forth reporting requirements. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out specified priority IT projects. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· HRH.R. 2959 (102nd)referred

Rural Crime and Drug Control Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 1991

Rural Crime and Drug Control Act of 1991 - Title I: Fighting Drug Trafficking in Rural Areas - Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to authorize appropriations, and increase the base allocation, for rural drug enforcement assistance. Directs the Attorney General to establish a Rural Drug Enforcement Task Force in each of the Federal judicial districts which encompass significant rural lands. Specifies the membership of such task forces. Directs the Attorney General to cross-designate up to 100 Federal officers with jurisdiction to enforce Controlled Substances Act (CSA) provisions on non-Federal lands to the extent necessary to effect the purposes of this title. Requires the Director of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center to develop a specialized course of instruction devoted to training law enforcement officers from rural agencies in the investigation of drug trafficking and related crimes. Authorizes appropriations. Title II: Federal Law Enforcement Agencies - Authorizes appropriations for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to hire, equip, and train not less than 350 agents and necessary support personnel to expand DEA investigations and operations against drug trafficking organizations in rural areas. Title III: Increasing Penalties for Certain Drug Trafficking Offenses - Ice Enforcement Act of 1991 - Amends the CSA to increase penalties for specified offenses involving crystalline methamphetamine. Title IV: Rural Drug Treatment - Amends the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a program to provide grants to hospitals, community health centers, and other appropriate entities that serve nonmetropolitan areas to assist in developing and implementing projects that provide, or expand the availability of, substance abuse treatment services. Authorizes appropriations. Title V: Rural Drug Prevention - Directs the Secretary to make grants to public and nonprofit private entities that serve nonmetropolitan areas to assist such entities in developing and implementing projects that provide, or expand the availability of, substance abuse prevention services. Authorizes appropriations. Requires the alcohol and drug abuse information clearinghouse required to be established under the PHSA to: (1) gather information pertaining to rural drug abuse treatment and education projects funded by the Administrator of the Alcohol, Drug Abuse, and Mental Health Administration and other such projects operating throughout the United States; and (2) disseminate information to rural hospitals, community health centers, community mental health centers, treatment facilities, community organizations. and other interested individuals. Title VI: Rural Land Recovery Act - Specifies that each of the Rural Drug Enforcement Task Forces shall include one Director of Rural Land Recovery. Directs State and Federal prosecutors, when bringing charges against the operators of such laboratories, to include, in addition to drug-related charges, counts involving infringements of applicable environmental protection laws, including illegal disposal of hazardous waste and knowing endangerment of the environment. Authorizes such prosecutors and private citizens to bring suit against the operators of such laboratories for environmental and health-related damages caused by the operators in their manufacture of illicit substances.

Bill· HRH.R. 2922 (102nd)open

Lead-Based Paint Hazard Abatement Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1991

Lead-Based Paint Hazard Abatement Act - Title I: Abatement of Lead-Based Paint Hazards - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish a program of formula allotments to States and city and urban entities for abatement of lead-based paint hazards. Sets requirements for annually increasing matching funds. Describes grant purposes, including inspection of residential and child day-care structures for lead hazards, removal of hazards, housing for displaced occupants, and counseling on lead poisoning. Allows grant abatement expenditures only if the income of a residential structure's occupants is 80 percent or less of the median income of the geographic area; or, for other eligible structures, only if a public health service agency has determined the structure is a significant-hazard structure. Prescribes rulemaking procedures for the issuance of program standards, requiring the use of specified regulations of the State of Massachusetts if a final rule is not issued within one year. Requires the establishment of an advisory council to supply advice on the administration of the program. Sets forth additional standards regarding authorized grant activities, planning requirements, annual reports, and allotment reallocations. Title II: Lead Abatement Trust Fund - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose a tax on lead removed from any U.S. smelter and imported lead and lead products of 75 cents per pound for primary lead and 37 cents per pound for secondary lead. Terminates the tax after ten years. Establishes the Lead Abatement Trust Fund in the Treasury. Title III: General Provisions - Sets forth the effective dates for the formula grants and the imposition of the excise tax.

Bill· HRH.R. 2936 (102nd)referred

Scientific and Technical Education Act of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1991

Technical Education and Training Act of 1991 - Requires the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to carry out an advanced technical education and training program under which accredited associate-degree-granting colleges, using matching non-Federal funds, provide training in technical competencies in strategic fields, with emphasis on collaborative programs with local employers and on attracting nontraditional students seeking to upgrade skills, recent high school graduates, and high school dropouts. Sets forth program elements, including: (1) model instructional programs in state-of-the-art competencies in advanced-technology occupations; (2) faculty development in laser technology, robotics, fiber optics, electronics, and other advanced technologies; and (3) private sector participation and provision of work experience opportunities. Requires the Director to: (1) award competitive grants to associate-degree-granting colleges; and (2) establish an inventory of advanced technical education and training programs. Requires the appointment of a National Advisory Council on Advanced Technical Education and Training to ensure the program is consistent with the needs of industries and provide other advice and evaluations. Requires an annual report from the Council to the NSF and the Congress. Requires the program to give emphasis to training to accommodate working people, parents, and the handicapped. Requires the designation of ten centers of excellence among associate-degree-granting colleges to serve as national and regional clearinghouses for educational institutions striving to upgrade their technical education programs and mathematics and science courses. Requires the Director to make: (1) no fewer than 20 grants annually to associate-degree-granting colleges to develop partnerships in mathematics and science education with secondary schools in the community; and (2) grants for partnerships with four-year academic institutions to enable students to achieve bachelor degrees in mathematics, science, engineering, or technology.

Bill· HRH.R. 2929 (102nd)open

California Desert Protection Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1991

California Desert Protection Act of 1991 - Title I: Wilderness Additions - Designates as additions to the National Wilderness Preservation System 77 wilderness areas within the California Desert Conservation Area (CDCA), the Yuma District, and the Bakerfield District of the Bureau of Land Management. Permits grazing in such areas. Prohibits the approval of any plan of operation prior to determining the validity of unpatented mining claims, mill sites, and tunnel sites affected by plans in such areas. States that non-designated areas within the CDCA have been adequately studied for inclusion in the System and releases them from otherwise applicable restrictions. Designates certain lands within the CDCA as the White Mountains Wilderness Study Area. Title II: Death Valley National Park - Establishes the Death Valley National Historic Park which subsumes the Death Valley National Monument. Withdraws the additional lands from further exploitation under the mining laws. Requires the Secretary of the Interior (the Secretary) to determine the validity of any unpatented mining claims, mill sites, and tunnel sites within such additional lands and whether the United States should acquire any mineral rights in such lands. Preserves grazing privileges on such lands for persons holding permits as of July 1, 1991. Terminates all grazing on July 1, 2016. Title III: Joshua Tree National Park - Establishes the Joshua Tree National Park which subsumes the Joshua Tree National Monument. Withdraws the additional lands from further exploitation under the mining laws. Requires the Secretary to determine the validity of any unpatented mining claims, mill sites, and tunnel sites within such additional lands and whether the United States should acquire any mineral rights in such lands. Continues the validity of certain rights-of-way of the Metropolitan Water District. Title IV: Mojave National Park - Establishes the Mojave National Monument which subsumes the East Mojave National Scenic Area. Withdraws Federal lands within the Monument from further exploitation under the mining laws. Requires the Secretary to determine the validity of any unpatented mining claims, mill sites, and tunnel sites within the Monument and whether the United States should acquire any mineral rights in such lands. Authorizes the Secretary to regulate mining in such Monument. Preserves grazing privileges on such lands for persons holding permits as of July 1, 1991. Terminates all grazing on July 1, 2016. Continues the validity of existing rights-of-way for specified activities. Directs the Secretary to submit a management plan for the Monument to the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources and the House Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs. Designates the Granite Mountains Natural Reserve within the Monument. Authorizes the Secretary to construct a visitors' center and acquire lands. Title V: National Park Wilderness - Designates as wilderness the Death Valley National Park Wilderness, the Joshua Tree National Park Wilderness Additions, and the Mojave National Monument Wilderness. Title VI: Miscellaneous Provisions - Directs the Secretary to transfer Red Rock Canyon State Park Additions in the CDCA to California. Establishes the Desert Lily Sanctuary within the CDCA. Prohibits the Secretary and the Secretary of Agriculture from: (1) disposing of lands within the boundaries of any wilderness, park, or monument designated by this Act; (2) granting rights-of-way in lands within designated wilderness; and (3) making lands within such boundaries available for use by the Metropolitan Water District. Requires the Secretary to transfer certain Federal lands selected by the California State Lands Commission upon transfer to the United States of State school lands of equivalent value that are included in areas designated as wilderness and national parks under titles I through IV of this Act. Sets forth procedures for establishing fair market value. Creates the California Desert State Lands Credit Account in the event that the value of selected Federal lands is less than that of transferred State lands. Authorizes the Secretary to exchange Federal mineral interests in lands in California for private mineral interests in wilderness areas and national parks designated by this Act. Directs the Secretary to insure nonexclusive access to the wilderness areas, parks, and monument designated by this Act for traditional Indian cultural and religious purposes. Reserves Federal water rights for wilderness areas designated by this Act. Authorizes appropriations. Title VII: Definitions - Sets forth specified definitions.

Bill· HRH.R. 2898 (102nd)open

Social Security Protection Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 1991

Social Security Protection Act of 1991 - Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to exclude the appropriations for the administration of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund from Federal budget deficit calculations and to exempt such appropriations from sequestration under such Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 2894 (102nd)open

Public Service Scholarship Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 1991

Public Service Scholarship Act of 1991 - Directs the Office of Personnel Management to establish the Public Service Scholarship Program under which executive agencies may award scholarships to outstanding students pursuing a baccalaureate or advanced degree in return for a commitment by the students to accept employment with the agencies for a specified period of service. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· HRH.R. 2872 (102nd)referred

Access to Life-Savings Therapies Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1991

Access to Life-Saving Therapies Act - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services, through the Food and Drug Administration, to approve, at the request of the sponsor and on an expedited basis, a drug or biologic needed to treat or prevent a life threatening disease or seriously debilitating illness if the drug or biologic meets certain conditions, including some indications of effectiveness and safety and a lack of alternative satisfactory therapy. Deems an application under the amendments made by this Act approved unless other action is taken within 120 days. Prohibits any health insurance policy or plan from distinguishing, for the purpose of determining whether a drug is eligible for coverage or reimbursement, between a drug approved under the amendments made by this Act and one approved under specified other provisions of the Public Health Service Act. Mandates suspension of approval under the amendments made by this Act if at least two subsequent studies fail to confirm the initial safety and efficacy conclusions. Requires written informed consent for administration of a drug approved under amendments made by this Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 2838 (102nd)open

Social Security Trust Fund Integrity and Benefits Improvement Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 1991

Social Security Trust Fund Integrity and Benefits Improvement Act of 1991 - Title I: Benefit Improvements - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to: (1) increase the amount of outside income which beneficiaries who have attained retirement age may earn without incurring a reduction in benefits; (2) increase survivors' benefits for those widows and widowers whose spouses died before they reached age 65; (3) repeal provisions which require that a widow or widower must have become disabled within seven years of their spouse's death or within seven years of the end of their eligibility for benefits as the surviving parent of a young child in order to be eligible for disability benefits; (4) raise the social security payroll tax exemption for State election officials and workers, and index the exempt amount beginning in 1993; and (5) increase the OASDI contribution and benefit base on a graduated basis beginning in 1992. Directs the Comptroller General to conduct a study and report to the Congress on the disability determination process and the appeals process applicable to disability determinations under the OASDI program and title XVI (Supplemental Security Income) (SSI) of the Social Security Act. Title II: Clarification of Budgetary Provisions - Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to exclude the appropriations for the administration of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund from Federal budget deficit calculations and to exempt such appropriations from sequestration under such Act. Title III: Social Security Administration - Amends title VII (Administration) of the Social Security Act to establish the Social Security Administration as an independent executive agency. Transfers to the Administration all functions carried out by the Secretary of Health and Human Services pertaining to such programs.

Bill· HRH.R. 2864 (102nd)referred

Vulnerable Elders' Rights Protection Amendments of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 1991

Vulnerable Elders' Rights Protection Amendments of 1991 - Title I: Elder Rights Services - Amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to establish in the Administration on Aging an Office on Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs headed by an Associate Commissioner for Ombudsman Services who shall serve as the Federal advocate on behalf of older individuals who reside in long-term care facilities. Directs the Administration to establish and operate the National Ombudsman Resource Center to assist State Long-Term Care Ombudsmen and the representatives of the Ombudsmen in carrying out State long-term care programs. Directs the Commissioner of the Administration on Aging to establish a National Center on Elder Abuse to: (1) compile an annual summary of recently conducted research on elder abuse; (2) develop and maintain an information clearinghouse on all programs for the prevention and treatment of such abuse; (3) compile training materials for personnel engaged in elder abuse prevention; (4) provide technical assistance for the planning and implementation of programs relating to the problems of elder abuse; and (5) conduct research and demonstration projects regarding the causes and national incidence of elder abuse. Authorizes the Commissioner to operate such Center directly or through a grant or contract. Extends the deadline for the annual Administration report to the Congress on complaints and conditions in long-term care facilities. Requires a Commission study of the effectiveness of State long-term care ombudsman programs. Adds a new title VII under which the Commissioner is directed to establish and carry out a program for making allotments to States to pay for the Federal share of carrying out elder rights activities under the following new parts of title VII: (1) part B (Ombudsman Programs); (2) part C (Programs for Prevention of Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation); (3) part D (State Elder Rights and Legal Assistance Development Program); and (4) part E (Outreach, Counseling, and Assistance Program). Authorizes appropriations for FY 1992 through 1995 to carry out such parts. Requires States, in order to be eligible to receive allotments under title VII, to submit a plan to the Commissioner with assurances that the State will establish the programs listed above in accordance with specified requirements outlined in this title. Authorizes State agencies to enter into agreements with public or private nonprofit agencies or organizations to carry out activities under such programs to protect the rights of the vulnerable elderly who reside in long-term care facilities. Reauthorizes and extends ombudsman and advocacy demonstration projects under the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act and the Protection and Advocacy for Mentally Ill Individuals Act of 1986. Directs the Commissioner to award grants to eligible State agencies to establish housing ombudsman demonstration programs to protect the rights of older individuals who are residents in publicly assisted housing programs. Authorizes appropriations. Title II: Definitions - Sets forth definitions of terms used in this Act. Title III: Board and Care Facility Quality - National Commission on Board and Care Facility Quality Act of 1991 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to arrange for the establishment of a National Commission on Board and Care Facility Quality to: (1) examine existing quality, health, and safety requirements for board and care facilities and the enforcement of such requirements for their adequacy and effectiveness; (2) examine and make recommendations with respect to the appropriate role of Federal, State, and local governments in assuring the health and safety of residents of board and care facilities; and (3) make specific recommendations to the Congress and the Secretary concerning the establishment of minimum national standards for the health and safety of residents of such facilities and the enforcement of such standards. Title IV: Miscellaneous Provisions - Sets forth the effective dates of this Act.

Bill· HRH.R. 2848 (102nd)referred

Military Child Care Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 1991

Military Child Care Act of 1991 - Directs the Secretary of Defense to ensure that child-care services are available to all active-duty members of the armed forces who desire such services through the development and implementation of a child-care service plan. Requires that members with lower income levels receive first priority in the provision of such services. Directs the Secretary to establish a voucher system for partial payment by the Department of Defense (DOD) of the expenses of such services provided by an entity other than DOD. Sets voucher amounts as the difference between the amount paid for such services by the member and the amount that would have been paid had such services been provided at a military child development center. Requires FY 1992 DOD funding levels to be adjusted so that the total amount appropriated for national defense does not exceed required Federal spending limits.

Bill· HRH.R. 2861 (102nd)referred

Directing the United States Postal Service to promulgate regulations to protect postal employees and the U.S. mail from exposure to medical waste.

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 1991

Directs the U.S. Postal Service to promulgate regulations to: (1) make medical waste nonmailable with the general U.S. mail stream; and (2) require any person who ships such waste to use registered mail with a return receipt. Sets forth penalties for violation of this Act.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 177 (102nd)referred

Calling for a United States policy of strengthening and maintaining indefinitely the current International Whaling Commission moratorium on the commercial killing of whales, and otherwise expressing the sense of the Congress with respect to conserving and protecting the world's whale, dolphin, and porpoise populations.

United States · United States Congress · 9 July 1991

Expresses the sense of the Congress that the United States should: (1) promote the maximum conservation and protection of whale, dolphin, and porpoise populations; (2) work to strengthen and maintain the current International Whaling Commission moratorium on the commercial killing of whales; (3) work to strengthen the Commission by reaffirming its competence to regulate whaling on all species of cetaceans and take actions to assure global protection for small cetaceans; and (4) in promoting protection, make use of diplomatic channels, domestic and international law, and all other means.

Bill· HRH.R. 2806 (102nd)open

Earthquake Hazard Reduction Amendments Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1991

Earthquake Hazard Reduction Amendments Act - Amends the Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of 1977 to mandate identification of earthquake-prone States. Establishes the Earthquake Loss Mitigation Advisory Committee. Requires development of comprehensive earthquake loss-reduction criteria for State and local land use and management ordinances, building codes, and other measures. Requires that a percentage of the annual earthquake insurance premiums collected under the Primary Insurance program enacted by this Act be deposited in the Self-Sustaining Mitigation Fund to support specified hazard reduction activities. Requires the Director to support public education programs. Provides for assistance, to the extent provided for in appropriations Acts, to States which are in compliance with the loss-reduction criteria of this Act to support development and implementation of mitigation plans. Prohibits making, increasing, extending, or renewing any federally-related mortgage loan secured by: (1) residential property in an earthquake-prone State unless the property is covered by earthquake insurance coverage under this Act or equivalent private insurance; or (2) improved real estate or a mobile home located in an earthquake-prone State if the State is not in compliance with the loss-reduction criteria of this Act and the property does not meet minimum mitigation criteria. Establishes the Primary Insurance Program against loss from any earthquake. Requires the Director to arrange for participation, on other than a risk-sharing basis, by private insurers, insurance agents and brokers, insurance adjustment organizations, and others. Mandates development of a plan of operation for the Insurance Fund and the Reinsurance Fund. Limits Program coverage to residential property in earthquake-prone States. Establishes an independent advisory committee in the executive branch to be known as the Earthquake Insurance and Reinsurance Advisory Committee. Establishes in the Treasury the Residential Property Insurance Fund to carry out the Primary Insurance Program. Credits to the Insurance Fund premiums received by the Program. Requires, if gross reimbursements to private insurers exceeds amounts in the Insurance Fund, loans from the industry for ten percent of the additional losses, with the remaining amounts borrowed from the Treasury and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States. Requires the Director to make reinsurance and excess reinsurance available to private insurers participating in the Program and their reinsurers. Provides for the excess reinsurance liability of the insurance industry and the Federal Government. Specifies the lines of insurance for which reinsurance coverage must be provided. Establishes in the Treasury the Reinsurance Fund to carry out the excess loss reinsurance program. Credits to the Fund any reinsurance premiums received under the excess loss reinsurance program and amounts borrowed from the Treasury under this Act. Requires the Director, to the extent that the Reinsurance Fund is insufficient to pay claims and expenses, to issue to the Secretary of the Treasury obligations to cover the insufficiency.

Bill· HRH.R. 2811 (102nd)referred

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for the nonrecognition of gain on long-term real property which is involuntarily converted as the result of the exercise of eminent domain, without regard to whether the replacement property is similar or of like kind.

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1991

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for the nonrecognition of gain on property held for at least ten years which is involuntarily converted as the result of the exercise of eminent domain, without regard to whether the replacement property is similar or of like kind.