United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1980
Extends the commendation of the Congress to the military personnel who took part in the attempt to rescue the hostages in Iran and recommends that the President consider awarding appropriate military decorations to such personnel. Extends congressional condolences to the families of the men who died during the attempted rescue. Recommends that Iranian assets frozen in the United States be made available to certain American claimants for damages against Iran.
United States · United States Congress · 23 April 1980
Handgun Crime Control Act of 1979 - Title I: Amendments to Chapter 44, Title 18, United States Code, Gun Control - Amends the Gun Control Act of 1968 to revise and add definitions used in the Act. Defines "handgun" to include handgun parts. Defines "Department" to mean the Department of Justice (current law is under the authority of the Secretary of the Treasury). Prohibits non-licensees from engaging in the business of repairing firearms or ammunition. Stipulates that certain otherwise lawful activities, such as the returning of a firearm by a licensee to the person from whom it was received and the mailing of a firearm to a licensee for the purpose or repair, shall be unlawful with respect to "easily concealable handguns" (that is, those handguns not approved by the Attorney General under this Act). Prohibits the loan or rental of an easily concealable handgun to another person for temporary use for lawful sporting purposes. Prohibits a licensee from selling a handgun to a person who does not appear in person at the licensee's business premises. Prohibits a licensee from selling or delivering a firearm or ammunition to any person if such sale or delivery violates a public ordinance at the place of residence of the purchaser. Revises the statement which must be submitted to a licensee by a purchaser not appearing at such licensee's business premises to provide that such purchaser be 18 years of age with respect to all firearms (current law requires a purchaser of any firearm other than a shotgun or rifle to be 21 years of age). Prohibits a licensee from manufacturing, assembling, selling, or transferring any handgun, other than a curio or relic, which has not been approved by the Attorney General. Prohibits any person from transferring such a handgun unless such person has reasonable cause to believe that the handgun has been approved. Excepts the mailing of handguns to comply with approved standards under certain circumstances. Prohibits the modification of an approved handgun resulting in the failure of such handgun to meet the approved standards. Revises the current prohibition against certain classes of individuals transporting a firearm or ammunition in interstate commerce to: (1) extend such prohibition to possession or receipt of any firearm or ammunition; and (2) include as additional categories illegal aliens, persons dishonorably discharged from the Armed Forces, and persons who have renounced their United States citizenship. Includes such categories in the current prohibition against selling a firearm or ammunition to certain classes of individuals. Prohibits any person from transporting a firearm or ammunition in interstate or foreign commerce in violation of a State law in a place to or through which the firearm was transported. Prohibits a licensee from transferring three or more handguns to the same non-licensee within a period of one year, without prior approval of the Attorney General. Prohibits a non-licensee from receiving three or more handguns within one year without such approval. Prohibits any person who has knowledge of the loss, theft, or disappearance of a handgun in his or her control or possession to fail to report such incident to a law enforcement officer and the Attorney General. Specifies the circumstances under which a person in lawful possession of a license or permit to: (1) carry handguns issued under a State licensing or permit granting program approved by the Attorney General may purchase or receive a handgun in any State from a licensed dealer or non-licensee; and (2) purchase handguns issued under an approved program, may purchase or receive a handgun in the State issuing the license or permit. Directs the Attorney General to review State laws providing for licenses or permits to carry or purchase handguns and to certify as approved those satisfying specified requirements. Specifies the circumstances under which (except as provided by other sections of the Act) a licensed dealer or non-licensee may transfer a handgun to another non-licensee. Sets new annual licensing fees of $5,000 for a manufacturer or importer of handguns, $500 for a dealer in handguns, $100 for a dealer in ammunition for handguns that is not also used in rifles, and $100 for a dealer who is a gunsmith. Prohibits a pawnbroker from being licensed as a dealer in handguns or handgun ammunition and such dealers from conducting business from the premises of a pawnbroker. Imposes additional requirements for the approval of a license application by the Attorney General. Increases from 45 to 90 days the period in which an application must be approved or denied. Authorizes the Attorney General, after notice and opportunity for hearing, to suspend or revoke a license, or subject a licensee who violates any provision of the Act to a civil penalty of up to $10,000 per violation. Sets forth new recordkeeping requirements for licensed importers, manufacturers, and dealers in handguns. Provides for the transfer of records where a licensee loses his or her license, transfers the business to another person, or in any way ceases doing business. Directs the Attorney General to appoint a 15-member Handgun Criteria Commission to develop criteria for the evaluation of handgun models according to frame size and other appropriate factors for determining whether such models are easily concealable, have potential for criminal use, or are particularly suitable for sporting purposes. Requires the Commission to submit a report containing such criteria within one year of enactment and to evaluate biannually the effectiveness of existing criteria. Directs the Attorney General to revise the criteria upon a determination by the Commission that handguns satisfying existing criteria are significantly involved in handgun crime. Requires final criteria to be transmitted to Congress, which may disapprove by resolution the criteria within 60 days of continuous session. Directs the Attorney General to approve for manufacture, importation, or transfer any handgun model which satisfies the established criteria after representative samples of such model are evaluated and tested. Authorizes exceptions with respect to handguns which are particularly appropriate for law enforcement purposes. Directs the Attorney General, prior to the time that criteria have been established, to evaluate samples of all handgun models and approve for manufacture, importation, or transfer handgun models which meet specified requirements. Sets forth procedures for the administrative review of a finding that a sample submitted has failed to meet the approved standards. Requires the Attorney General to publish at least semiannually in the general register a list of handgun models which have been tested and the test results. Deems approved any handgun model not in manufacture on or after October 21, 1968, and which has not been tested. Revises the penalties under such Act. Disallows, with respect to a person who uses or carries a firearm during the commission of any felony and receives an additional sentence, the suspension of such sentence, the giving of probation, or the concurrent running of a term of imprisonment (under current law such prohibitions apply only to a second or subsequent offense). Sets forth a mandatory period of parole ineligibility for such offense, unless the court finds specified mitigating circumstances. Makes any person (including a licensee) who negligently sells or transfers a handgun in violation of this Act civilly liable for the death or injury suffered by an individual as a result of the use of the handgun by the transferee in the commission of an offense that causes death or personal injury to that individual. Stipulates that certain exceptions to the provisions of the Act shall only apply with respect to handguns which have been approved by the Attorney General in accordance with the Act. Allows a mental incompetent to be relieved from the disabilities of the Act with respect to the possession, acquisition, or transfer of firearms upon specific findings by a court. Authorizes the Attorney General to permit the importation of approved handguns. Directs the Attorney General to make annual grants for each fiscal year and supplemental grants at his or her discretion for compensation of victims of handgun crime to qualifying State programs for the compensation of victims of handgun crime. Specifies eligibility criteria for such programs and the amount of authorized payments. Requires the Attorney General to submit annual reports to the congressional judiciary committees concerning such programs. Establishes a nine-member Advisory Committee on Victims of Handgun Crime to advise the Attorney General on the administration of the programs and policies relating to the compensation of victims of handgun crimes. Title II: Gun Control Functions Transferred to Attorney General - Transfers to the Attorney General all functions of the Secretary of the Treasury under the Gun Control Act of 1968. Authorizes the President to transfer additional functions of other agencies to the Department which relate to the functions transferred by this Act. Establishes within the Department of Justice the Firearms Safety and Abuse Control Administration to administer the functions of the Attorney General under the Gun Control Act of 1968. Directs the Attorney General to transmit to Congress as part of the annual report of the Department of Justice a report on the activities of the Administration. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Amends the Federal criminal code to increase from 45 to 90 days the period in which an application for a user permit or a license to import, manufacture, or deal in explosive materials must be approved or denied. Authorizes the Attorney General, after notice and opportunity for hearing, to suspend or revoke a license, or subject a licensee who violates any statutory requirement to a civil penalty of up to $10,000 per violation. Directs the Postal Service to promulgate regulations for the conveyance of handguns in the mails. Directs the Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations established by the Act of September 24, 1959, in consultation with the United States Conference of Mayors, the National League of Cities, and representatives of Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies, to report within six months of enactment on: (1) intergovernmental problems in controlling illicit handgun traffic; and (2) the effectiveness of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 and the Gun Control Act of 1968. Repeals title VII of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act (relating to the receipt, possession, or transportation of firearms by felons, veterans dishonorably discharged, mental incompetents, illegal aliens, and persons renouncing their United States citizenship). Makes this Act effective 120 days after enactment, with specified exceptions.
United States · United States Congress · 22 April 1980
National Science Foundation Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1981 - Authorizes appropriations for the National Science Foundation for fiscal year 1981. Makes funds authorized for 1981 available for: (1) mathematical and physical sciences; (2) astronomical, atmospheric, earth and ocean sciences; (3) United States Antarctic Program; (4) biological, behavioral, and social sciences; (5) Ocean Drilling Programs; (6) Science Education Programs; (7) engineering and applied science; (8) scientific, technological, and international affairs; (9) Cross-Directorate Programs; and (10) program development and management. Establishes minimum amounts to be spent for specified programs, including Earthquake Hazards Mitigation, the Small Business Innovation Program, Research and Development in Appropriate Technology, Science Facility Improvement Programs, Science Education Programs relating to Appropriate Technology, and for salaries of faculty members at institutions of higher education with limited programs in science and engineering. Establishes spending ceilings for specified programs, including the Ocean Margin Drilling Project and United States/Union of Soviet Socialist Republics cooperative research. Requires the Foundation to prepare and submit to Congress a report on the Ocean Margin Drilling Project. Requires the National Academy of Sciences to study and report on marine earth sciences research. Limits the amount which may be used for official consultation or representation at the discretion of the Director of the National Science Foundation and for the expenses of the National Science Foundation incurred outside the United States. Permits the transfer of funds from one category to another as specified. Requires the foundation to consolidate all Directors. Requires the Director of the Foundation, with the Secretary of Education, to develop and transmit to Congress a proposed joint science education program plan. Eliminates the Civil Service Commission clearance of personnel with access to specified information or property requirement. Makes individuals who make outstanding contributions in the behavioral or social sciences eligible to receive a National Medal of Science. Directs the President to develop and report to Congress a comprehensive national policy respecting women and minorities in science and technology. Requires the Director to require that all Foundation grants contain a brief statement of the purpose of the research being undertaken.
United States · United States Congress · 22 April 1980
National Bureau of Standards Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1981 - Authorizes appropriations to carry out the activities of the National Bureau of Standards for fiscal year 1981. Sets forth minimum amounts to be spent on specified programs, including the Environmental Measurement Program, Earthquake Hazards Engineering, Measurement Standards for the Handicapped, the Automated Manufacturing Research Facility, and for Transfer to Working Capital Fund. Establishes a spending ceiling for expenses of the Bureau incurred outside the United States. Authorizes additional appropriations to carry out the activities performed by the National Technical Information Service for fiscal year 1981, for research, development, and related activities in the field of innovation and productivity, and for adjustments in salary and employee benefits. Sets forth a formula for the apportionment of appropriated funds. Permits the transfer of funds among the line items according to a specified formula and procedure. Directs the Director of the Bureau to charge other agencies for any services performed by the Bureau at such agency's request or as required by law. Increases the ceiling on the amount the Bureau may spend for facilities improvement. Authorizes the Director to expend funds to defray the expenses of foreign nationals not in service to the Federal government while they are performing scientific or engineering work at the National Bureau of Standards or participating in the exchange of scientific or technical information at the Bureau. Authorizes employees of the Bureau to participate in foreign exchanges offered by a foreign government for the performance of scientific or engineering activities or the exchange of information if to do so would be in the interests of the United States. Repeals the provision relating to a limited authorization of appropriations for fiscal years 1979 and 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 22 April 1980
Title I: Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program - Amends the Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of 1977 to designate the Federal Emergency Management Agency as the agency with the primary responsibilities to conduct and coordinate the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program. Requires the Director of such Agency to: (1) recommend to the President the role and responsibility of each appropriate Federal department, agency, and entity with respect to each object and element of the program; (2) provide for the cooperation and coordination with, and assistance to, interested governmental entities in all States; (3) compile by September 30, 1981, and update and submit to Congress annually a written program plan with budget options; and (4) recommend appropriate roles for other levels of government, individuals, and private organizations. Directs that the research elements of the program include the development techniques for the delineation of the potential effects of earthquakes, and their application on a regional basis. Authorizes the Director of the United States Geological Survey to issue an earthquake prediction or advisory as he deems necessary. Requires the Director to recommend specific actions to the State and local officials and residents of an area for which a prediction has been made. Includes within the mitigation elements of the program: (1) the transmittal to Congress by the Director of an intraagency coordination plan for earthquake hazard mitigation and response; and (2) the development and implementation by the Director of a preparedness plan for response to earthquake predictions which includes a prototype plan for a major metropolitan area with specific adaptations for other high risk metropolitan areas. Eliminates the reporting to Congress requirement when proposed action under such plan has not been initiated. Directs the Director to conduct and submit to Congress a study recommending amendments to the Disaster Relief Act of 1974 to include funding for the period of time following a validated earthquake prediction. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1981 for: (1) the continuation of the Interagency Committee on Seismic Safety in Construction and the Building Seismic Safety Council Programs; (2) plans and preparedness for earthquake disasters; (3) prediction response planning; (4) architectural and engineering planning and practice programs; (5) development and application of a public education program; (6) earthquake policy research by the National Science Foundation; (7) use by the Center for Building Technology, National Bureau of Standards; (8) the United States Geological Survey; (9) the National Science Foundation; and (10) the National Bureau of Standards. Permits the transfer of funds between categories as specified. Title II: Fire Prevention and Control - Amends the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974 to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1981 for: (1) a three-year concentrated demonstration program of fire prevention and control in two States with high fire death rates; (2) rural fire prevention and control; and (3) research and development activities at the Fire Research Center of the National Bureau of Standards. Establishes minimum amounts to be spent on such programs. Title III: Multihazard Research, Planning, and Mitigation - Authorizes and directs the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to initiate studies to define and develop a multihazard research, planning, and implementation process within the Agency, develop prototype multihazard mitigation projects for State and local governments, and prepare a report on the status of the Agency's emergency information and communication satellites. Title IV: General Provisions - Sets forth the ratio for the apportionment of funds appropriated for the program included in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 April 1980
Toxic Substances Control Act Amendments of 1980 - Authorizes appropriations to carry out the purposes of such Act for fiscal years 1981 and 1982. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to conduct a study, by contract with the National Academy of Sciences, to determine the adequacy of compensation and other assistance available to persons to mitigate health problems or economic losses caused by hazardous chemical substances, and to issue and submit to appropriate congressional committees a detailed report on the results of such study. Authorizes the appropriation of $2,000,000 for such study. Directs the Administrator to provide for the monitoring of emissions at facilities used to incinerate polychlorinated biphenyls ("PCBs") and to hold briefings for the general public to report the results of such monitoring.
United States · United States Congress · 22 April 1980
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow homeowners a nonrefundable income tax credit for 50 percent of the expenses paid or incurred to make alterations to their residences for the purpose of making such residences more accessible to, and usable by, a handicapped individual who is either the taxpayer, his spouse, or a dependent of the taxpayer. Limits the amount of such credit, for each such handicapped individual, to the lesser of $1,000 or an amount which, when added to previous year's credits, does not exceed $5,000. Reduces the amount of such credit by one-half of the amount by which the adjusted gross income of the taxpayer exceeds $20,000 ($35,000 in the case of married individuals filing jointly). Defines "handicapped individual" as any individual who has a medically identifiable mental or physical impairment which can be expected to result in death or which can be expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months, and which substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of such individual. Requires the handicapped individual to live in the principal residence for which the alterations are made for not less than a nine month period during the taxable year.
United States · United States Congress · 22 April 1980
Condemns the internal exile of Andrei Sakharov and urges the restoration of full human rights and fundamental freedoms to him. Declares it U.S. policy to halt official travel to the United States by Soviet scientists and scholars, which is not directly beneficial to the United States, for at least six months. Recommends that all governmental agencies, private agencies, scientists, and engineers be requested to defer all official travel to the Soviet Union related to scientific and technological cooperation for at least six months. Calls upon foreign governments, professional societies, scientists, and engineers to join in similar actions. Directs the President to assure that all Federal agencies take coordinated action should any circumstances change. Urges Federal agencies, together with governments and scientists of all nations, to develop standards, and/or policies for the conduct of international cooperative research and research communications and for the protection of the human rights of scientists. Directs the President to report to Congress concerning the appropriate policies to further this resolution and steps taken to assure coordinated Federal agency actions.
United States · United States Congress · 17 April 1980
Establishes within the National Institutes of Health the Office of Drugs of Limited Commercial Value under the direction of the Director of the National Institutes of Health. Establishes within the Office an advisory council to advise the Director and make recommendations to the Secretary of Health and Human Services (formerly Health, Education, and Welfare) respecting the time required for drug approval under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Authorizes the Director to provide financial assistance to entities for the development of drugs of limited commercial value, defined as a drug for a condition or disease of low incidence, to undertake the development of such drugs, undertake studies to determine the potential and need for specific drugs, and coordinate the efforts of public and private entities engaged in the development of such drugs. Requires the submission and approval of an application containing the scientific basis for the development of the drug and the proposed therapeutic use of the drug and other specified information before financial assistance is provided. Requires each entity receiving funds to keep specified records. Requires the Director to report to Congress within two years on the effectiveness of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 15 April 1980
Supports the President's actions towards Iran to secure the release of the hostages. Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that it is necessary to obtain international cooperation in imposing sanctions on Iran.
United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1980
Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to carry out a study of the possible relationship between exposure of military personnel to radiation in Hiroshima and Nagasaki immediately after World War II and any health problems they may presently have. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress and the Veterans Administration regarding such study.
United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1980
Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (formerly, the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare) to conduct a clinical investigation of the safety and efficacy of dimethyl sulfoxide as a drug to be used by persons with arthritis.
United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1980
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the excise tax on small cigarettes from $4 per thousand to $9 per thousand, and on large cigarettes from $8.40 per thousand to $18.90 per thousand.
United States · United States Congress · 1 April 1980
Toxic Substances Control Act Amendments of 1980 - Authorizes appropriations to carry out the purposes of such Act for fiscal years 1981 and 1982. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to promulgate rules within 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act to eliminate the use of polychlorinated biphenyls in concentrations exceeding 50 parts per million, or as otherwise determined under such Act, in dielectric fluids in transformers and large capacitors used at food-related facilities, unless: (1) such concentrations do not present an unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment; and (2) the imposition of such requirements would pose significant economic hardships on food facility owners and operators. Directs the Administrator to review any rules promulgated within one year after the date of enactment of this Act: (1) by the Secretary of Agriculture restricting the use of polychlorinated biphenyls in facilities regulated under the Federal Meat Inspection Act, the Poultry Products Inspection Act, or the Egg Products Inspection Act; and (2) by the Secretary of Health and Human Services restricting such use under the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to conduct a study, by contract with the National Academy of Sciences, to determine the adequacy of compensation and other assistance available to persons to mitigate health problems or economic losses caused by hazardous chemical substances, and to issue and submit to appropriate congressional committees a detailed report on the results of such study. Authorizes the appropriations for such study. Directs the Administrator to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of: (1) requiring the elimination of polychlorinated biphenyls in specified concentrations from transformers and large capacitors used in food-related facilities; and (2) establishing a polychlorinated biphenyl contamination prevention program. Requires the preparation of a report on the results of such study to be submitted to the appropriate congressional committees. Directs the Administrator to provide for the monitoring of emissions at facilities used to incinerate polychlorinated biphenyls and to hold briefings for the general public to report the results of such monitoring.
United States · United States Congress · 26 March 1980
Infant Formula Act of 1980 - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to set forth requirements for infant formulas. States that formulas which do not conform to such requirements shall be deemed to be adulterated. Permits the Secretary of Health and Human Services (formerly, the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare) to revise such requirements and establish quality control procedures. Requires each manufacturer of an infant formula to notify the Secretary whether the formula as processed meets such requirements and of any changes in such formula or its processing. Requires a processor who has information that any infant formula leaving his or her control may be adulterated or misbranded to promptly notify the Secretary. Sets forth reporting and recordkeeping requirements respecting the distribution of such formula as may be necessary to effect and monitor recalls. Directs the Secretary to prescribe the scope and extent of such recalls. Exempts infant formulas represented and labelled for use by infants having unusual medical or dietary problems from the specified nutrient requirements of such Act. Permits the Secretary to establish terms and conditions for the exemption of other infant formulas from such requirements. Grants an inspector enforcing the provisions of this Act access to specified records of the manufacturer at all times. Makes the failure to submit required reports or to provide required notice prohibited acts under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
United States · United States Congress · 26 March 1980
Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act Amendments of 1980 - Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to exempt manufacturers of fewer than 10,000 passenger automobiles in any model year from: (1) the average fuel economy standards for such year; and (2) the information and reporting requirements for such year. Exempts from such standards manufacturers whose domestically manufactured production commenced after a specified date. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to include certain foreign-manufactured automobiles in such manufacturer's calculation of average fuel economy when: (1) at least 50 percent of the cost to the manufacturer of such automobiles is attributable to value added in the United States or Canada; (2) such automobiles have never previously been domestically manufactured; (3) such automobiles are manufactured before a specified model year; and (4) any automobile assembled in Canada is imported into the United States within 30 days after the end of the applicable model year. Prohibits such manufacturer from including such automobiles for more than four model years. Permits a manufacturer to apply for such inclusion under specified conditions. Directs such manufacturer applying for inclusion to submit a manufacturing plan with specified information. Sets forth provisions to be followed by the Administrator in approving or disapproving of such manufacturing plans. Allows an aggrieved party to petition the appropriate court for review of the Administrator's actions under this Act. States that the failure of any manufacturer to comply with any average fuel economy standard shall not be deemed unlawful conduct if the manufacturer has sufficient credits or time in which to gain such credits to offset any penalty which would otherwise be assessed. Permits credits earned for exceeding the required fuel economy levels for any given model year to be used to offset any penalties such manufacturer may have incurred for the three consecutive model years prior to such year or any penalties such manufacturer may incur in the succeeding three consecutive model years. Extends the time available to all passenger automobile manufacturers in which to carry forward or carry back such credits.
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1980
Methane Transportation Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1980 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to designate an organizational entity within the Department of Energy to manage the methane vehicle research, development, and demonstration program established under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the Department of Transportation, the Environmental Protection Agency, or any other Federal agency, providing that such agencies conduct specified aspects of such program as the Secretary deems appropriate. States that the Secretary shall have responsibility to ascertain that such program includes activities to: (1) promote research on methane-fueled vehicles; (2) determine optimum overall specifications for such vehicles; (3) determine means and facilities for storing, transporting, and dispensing methane for use as vehicular fuel; (4) conduct demonstration projects with respect to the feasibility of such vehicles; (5) gather performance data on such vehicles and related methane transmission and storage facilities; (6) enter into arrangements to assure adequate continuous supplies of methane for use in the demonstrations assisted under this Act; (7) ascertain the need for modifying available methane-fueled vehicles in order to facilitate their use by fleet owners; and (8) report to the Congress on any changes in fuel supply patterns, tax policies, and manufacturing standards needed to facilitate the manufacture and use of such vehicles. Directs the Secretary to assure maximum coordination between Federal agencies and the Department of Energy in carrying out such program. Directs the Secretary to initiate and provide for research and development in areas relating to such vehicles. Directs the Secretary to promulgate rules and regulations and to issue an initial report for proposals for technical and financial assistance to support public and private entities in developing and implementing demonstration projects to gather data on the operation of such vehicles and facilities for the transmission and storage of methane as a vehicular fuel. Sets forth the types of technical and finacial assistance to be provided under this Act, including grants and loans to cover specified percentages of the costs associated with the installation of methane transmission, storage, and dispensing facilities. Sets forth requirements as to the number and duration of such demonstrations. Directs the Secretary to consult with the Postmaster General, the Administrator of the General Services Administration, the Secretary of Defense, and the heads of other Federal agencies to determine the practicability of using methane vehicles in the performance of agency functions and to arrange for appropriate use of such vehicles at the earliest practicable date. Requires the Secretary to submit an annual report on all activities undertaken under this Act to the Senate and the House of Representatives for referral to appropriate committees. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1981 thorugh 1985 to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1980
Vietnam Veterans Comprehensive Readjustment and Rehabilitation Act - Title I: Interagency Coordination and Veterans Outreach Services - Requires the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to coordinate all programs and activities affecting veterans and their dependents with other departments and agencies. Directs the Administrator to initiate a comprehensive outreach and information program to inform and assist eligible veterans and eligible persons to understand and utilize such programs. Title II: Compensation and Treatment for Diseases and Disabilities caused by Toxic Substances and Radiation Exposure - Entitles a veteran who suffers from a personal injury or disease contracted in the line of duty, or a disabled child with birth defects resulting from genetic damage to a veteran, to compensation and medical care. Authorizes the Administrator to establish and carry out a comprehensive program of screening veterans who may have been exposed to toxic substances, chemical or biological agents, or radiation during their military, naval, or air service to determine whether such veterans have incurred any disease or disability as a result of such exposure. Provides for outreach services to inform and assist such veterans in adjusting to such diseases or disabilities. Permits the Administrator to establish a centralized registry of claims made before the Veterans' Administration (VA) or other appropriate agency arising out of exposure or possible exposure to toxic substances, chemical or biological agents, or radiation, and of the disabilities, diseases, genetic damage, or symptoms associated with such exposure. Title III: Readjustment Counseling Improvement and Expansion - Authorizes the Administrator to arrange for or assist the veteran or the veteran's dependent, or both, in obtaining readjustment counseling or mental health services. Allows for the Administrator to conduct or contract for comprehensive studies of the psychological and sociological effects of the Vietnam Conflict, military service, and the readjustment process upon veterans and dependents. Title IV: Vocational Rehabilitation - Defines for purposes of this Act: (1) medical condition; (2) program of education; (3) program of independent living services and assistance; (4) rehabilitated; (5) rehabilitation program; (6) serious employment handicap; (7) vocational goal; (8) vocational rehabilitation program. Sets forth the provisions regarding basic entitlement and periods of eligibility for eligible veterans. Sets forth the scope of services and assistance, including: (1) evaluation for rehabilitation potential; (2) educational, vocational, psychological, employment, and personal adjustment counseling; (3) allowance and other appropriate assistance; (4) work study allowance; (5) placement services; (6) personal adjustment and work adjustment training assistance, tuition, fees, books, supplies, and other training materials; (8) loans; (9) treatment care, and services; (10) prosthetic appliances and other corrective devices; (11) services to a veterans' family; (12) essential employment equipment and supplies for severely disabled veterans requiring homebound training and for self-employment; (13) travel and incidental expenses; (14) special rehabilitation services, including services for the blind and the deaf. Provides for the duration of rehabilitative programs. Requires extended evaluations of veterans with service-connected disabilities to determine whether such veteran may have or has a serious employment handicap. Allows the Administrator to formulate an individualized written plan of vocational rehabilitation for a veteran. Provides for the payment of a subsistence allowance to eligible veterans. Entitles severely disabled veterans to a program of independent living services, and assistance designed to enable such veteran to achieve maximum independence in the functions of daily living. Authorizes the Administrator to prescribe regulations regarding leaves of absences, conduct, and cooperation. Releases to eligible veterans all books, supplies, and equipment furnished to such veteran under this Act, unless the Administrator determines that such veteran must return the resources. Allows for vocational rehabilitation to hospitalized members of the Armed Forces and veterans. Provides that any Federal agency's facilities may be used to provide unpaid training or work experience as part of a veteran's vocational rehabilitation program. States that such a veteran shall be deemed a Federal employee for workmen's compensation purposes but not for the purposes of laws administered by the Office of Personnel Management. Directs the Veterans Administration (VA) to: (1) provide employment assistance, including direct employment placement, utilization of Federal, State, and nonprofit private employment services and securing loans and paying business license fees; (2) provide vocational rehabilitation staff training and development; and (3) carry out an ongoing program of rehabilitation research and special projects, including grants and contracts with public and nonprofit agencies. Directs the Administrator to appoint a Veterans' Advisory Committee on Rehabilitation. Revises provisions concerning the limitation on periods of assistance under two or more veterans' educational assistance programs to include post-Vietnam era benefits within such limitation, and to provide a 48 month aggregate eligibility period for vocational rehabilitation and other educational assistance. Authorizes the Administrator to evaluate a veteran's employability in considering certain claims based on total disability and unemployability. Title V: Conditional Cost-of-Living Adjustment Educational Assistance Allowance - Authorizes the Administrator to provide a conditional cost-of-living adjust educational assistance to an eligible veteran or eligible person who makes an application and is eligible therefore. Stipulates that a cost-of-living adjustment allowance shall be in lieu of any authorized educational assistance or training allowance. Title VI: GI Bill Program Adjustments - Modifies the delimiting period for completing a program of education for veterans. Provides for the extension of the delimiting period for eligible veterans up to a period of two years. States that the Administrator shall provide educational, vocational, and personal adjustment counseling for veterans eligible for educational assistance. Limits the aggregate period during which any person may receive assistance under two or more programs of education administered by the Veterans' Administration. Declares that educational assistance allowances for institutionalized veterans after 30 days of institutionalization shall accrue and be withheld (and converted to securities), paid to dependents, and paid to such veteran upon discharge. Authorizes the Administrator, upon the request of such veteran, to pay to such veteran all or part of the monthly allowance to meet continuing financial obligations of such veteran. Provides for the payment of unused contributions to the education assistance fund to specified individuals upon death of the participant. Eliminates reporting requirements to Congress regarding default rates and experience with respect to loans made under this Act to eligible veterans. Discharges a veteran's liability on loans upon such veteran's successful completion of educational, professional, or vocational objective. Title VII: Interagency Task Force; Presidential Commission or Veterans' Affairs - Establishes an Interagency Veterans' Advisory Task Force. Sets forth the duties and responsibilities of such Task Force. Title VIII: Job Counseling, Training, and Placement Service for Veterans - Establishes within the Department of Labor an Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans Employment. Title IX: Employment and Training of Disabled and Vietnam Era Veterans - Requires Federal contracts of $10,000 or more to require the contracting party to take affirmative steps to employ qualified disabled veterans and veterans of the Vietnam era and to make reasonable efforts to provide career development, advancement, and training opportunities to such veterans. Encourages veterans employment within the Federal Government. Title X: Veterans Career Development, Advancement, and Training Assistance - Establishes a program of career development, advancement, training, and related services for Vietnam-era veterans. Defines, for purposes of this Act: (1) eligible veteran; (2) eligible employer; and (3) dependent. Sets forth provisions regarding the entitlement to and the eligibility of a veteran for a career development and advancement or training allowance. Sets the duration of such eligibility. Requires the Administrator of the Veterans' Administration to provide occupational and vocational counseling. Permits an eligible veteran to select a program of career development and advancement, or a program of career development and training with an eligible employer in a chosen career field if the employer hires such veteran into its regular workforce with the expectation of permanent employment of the veteran after the training and career development assistance ends. Disallows approval of enrollment of a veteran for: (1) seasonal, intermittent or temporary jobs; (2) jobs paying less than $4.00 an hour, unless the Administrator determines in a particular case that the clause does not apply; (3) jobs outside the United States or its territories or possessions; (4) jobs under which commissions are the primary source of income; (5) employment which involves political or religious activities; (6) employment in an industry which a substantial number of experienced and able workers are unemployed; (7) jobs that are above entry level, except when applicable personnel procedures and collective bargaining procedures regarding the advancement of currently employed workers are complied with; (8) employment which would result in the displacement of any currently employed worker; (9) jobs which if filled would replace any worker who is on lay off, or on strike. Requires the Administrator to discontinue the career development and advancement allowance of an eligible veteran whose conduct or progress is unsatisfactory. Allows the Administrator to renew the veterans' allowance under certain conditions. Directs the Administrator to pay to each eligible veteran employer, on behalf of each eligible veteran, an allowance to meet in part the expenses of such veteran's wages, benefits, training, and any other necessary or appropriate costs. Sets forth the provisions for computation of career development, advancement, and training allowances and payment to eligible employers. Outlines the specifications for approval of career development and advancement programs. Provides for the issuance of certificates of approval to the eligible employers. Requires an employer who receives an overpayment as a result of: (1) willful or negligent failure to report a veteran's excessive absences from work or interruptions in a planned program; or (2) false certification to repay the amount of such overpayment to the United States. Allows the Administrator to make a complete report of the facts to the appropriate approving agency and, if considered advisable, to the Attorney General of the United States for appropriate action. Allows an eligible veteran to make one change of program, unless the Administrator finds sufficient reason to support further changes. Authorizes the Administrator to periodically conduct compliance surveys. Outlines the duties of the Secretary of Labor under this Act. Directs the Administrator, in consultation with the Secretaries of Labor, and of Health, Education, and Welfare, to provide for an outreach and public information program to inform eligible veterans of the program established by this Act. Title XI: Honorable Discharge (Limited) - Creates a discharge category of honorable discharge (limited) if the board determines that such individual has been rehabilitated, that such individual's conduct, activities, and habits since the individuals last discharge or dismissal have been exemplary for a reasonable period of time. Title XII: Effective Date - The amendments made by this Act shall take effect October 1, 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1980
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that taxpayers who incur expenses for the care of a dependent child who is mentally or physically handicapped shall be eligible for the child care expenses credit whether or not the taxpayer incurred such expenses to enable the taxpayer to seek gainful employment or such expenses were incurred outside his household. Increases the amount of expenses which may be considered in determining the amount of the credit. Provides that the earned income limitation shall not apply to taxpayers who provide care for handicapped children. Grants tax-exempt status to a trust established for the care of a physically or mentally handicapped child of the taxpayer. Allows an income tax deduction for contributions to a child care trust. Limits the amount of such deduction to the lesser of 15 percent of the taxpayer's compensation includable in gross income for the taxable year, or $1,500. Provides that distributions from such a trust shall not be taken into consideration in determining the eligibility of such child for Federal or State assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1980
Amends the Securities Investor Protection Act to increase from $100,000 to $500,000 the maximum amount which the Securities Investor Protection Corporation may distribute to a customer in the liquidation of a broker-dealer. Permits up to $100,000 of such amount (presently, $40,000) to be used to satisfy a claim for cash.
United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1980
Condemns the internal exile of Andrei Sakharov and urges his restoration to his former situation. Declares it U.S. policy to halt official travel to the United States by Soviet scientists and scholars, which is not directly beneficial to the United States, for at least six months. Recommends that all governmental agencies, private agencies, scientists, and engineers be requested to defer all official travel to the Soviet Union related to scientific and technological cooperation for at least six months. Calls upon foreign governments, professional societies, scientists, and engineers to join in similar actions. Directs the President to assure that all Federal agencies take coordinated action should any circumstances change. Urges Federal agencies, together with governments and scientists of all nations, to develop standards for the conduct of international cooperative research and research communication and for the protection of the human rights of scientists. Directs the President to report to Congress concerning the appropriate policies to further this resolution and steps taken to assure coordinated Federal agency actions.
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1980
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow the residential energy credit for energy conservation expenditures with respect to residences substantially completed after April 19, 1977, if such expenditures are for energy conservation items which are not required by Federal, State, or local housing standards.
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1980
Amends the Railway Labor Act to provide that State law shall govern the settlement of a labor dispute between employees and a State-owned rail passenger carrier after the procedures and requirements set forth in such Act (other than the creation of an emergency board) have been exhausted by the parties to the dispute.
United States · United States Congress · 12 March 1980
Expresses the sense of Congress that school authorities and college and university administrators should consider strengthening the study of foreign languages and cultures through appropriate actions.
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1980
Expresses the sense of Congress that the 1980 automatic cost-of-living increase in social security benefits should be allowed to occur as scheduled in accordance with the recommendations of the President.
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1980
Small Business Motor Fuel Marketer Preservation Act of 1980 - Amends the Small Business Act to authorize the Small Business Administration (SBA) to make loans to small businesses acquiring gas stations from a refiner. Makes it unlawful for a refiner, other than an independent or small refiner, to operate a gas station in the United States. Requires a refiner, in disposing of any interest in such a station, to offer a right of first refusal to the dealer at such station. Sets forth the requirements for such an offer. Makes it unlawful for a refiner to: (1) exceed specified annual sales limitations in any State (requires the Federal Trade Commission to determine specified limitation formulas); and (2) sell motor fuel at any time at any point of transfer at different prices (except for price differentials which reflect manufacturing, sale, or delivery differences). Stipulates that a refiner shall: (1) be in violation of this Act if such refiner withholds available motor fuel from a purchaser and then resells such fuel at a lower price to refiner-operated stations; and (2) not be prevented from charging a uniform surcharge in connection with a sale of motor fuel as consideration for the purchaser's use of a refiner's trademark or other such identifying symbol. Makes it unlawful for any person to interfere in any way with the purchasing, selling, or storing of motor fuel by a dealer. Makes it unlawful for any dealer at a station displaying a trademark or identifying symbol of a particular refiner to sell motor fuel not refined by such refiner without providing notice to purchasers. Requires each refiner within three months of enactment to provide to the Federal Trade Commission information regarding the number of: (1) gallons of motor fuel sold, consigned, or distributed in each State during the preceding year; (2) gallons of motor fuel sold to its stations in each State during the preceding year; and (3) barrels of crude oil produced and refined during the preceding year. Requires persons owning 50 or more motor fuel stations in the United States to report specified information to the Commission. Sets forth fines for violation of this Act. Permits civil actions to be brought against violators of the requirements of the Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1980
Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to authorize the Secretary of Housing and Community Development to make payments to local homesteading agencies in lieu of real estate taxes which accrued during the period of transfer of homestead property.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1980
Cigarette Safety Act - Directs the Consumer Product Safety Commission to promulgate, within 24 months, final performance standards for cigarettes and little cigars ensuring a minimum capacity for igniting smoldering upholstered furniture and mattress fires. Authorizes the Commission to prohibit manufacturers from stockpiling such products to which such standard applies. Provides for judicial review of such standard in an appropriate U.S. court of appeals. Declares such cigarette safety standards to be subject to all remedial and penalty provisions of the Consumer Product Safety Act. Authorizes appropriations necessary to carry out this Act for the first three fiscal years beginning after its enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1980
Research Revitalization Act of 1980 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit a taxpayer engaged in a trade or business an income tax credit equal to 25 percent of the cash contributions made by such taxpayer to a reserve fund established to finance research or experimentation related to the taxpayer's business. Limits the total amount of such credit to five percent of the taxable business income of the taxpayer for the taxable year. Exempts such reserve fund from income taxation. Allows an income tax deduction for research expenses paid out of the reserve fund during the taxable year. Specifies that research financed pursuant to this Act shall be performed by an institution of higher education. Prescribes tax penalties for the use of funds from the research reserve for purposes other than research and experimentation.
United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1980
Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to authorize the Attorney General to correct the birthdates on naturalization certificates of individuals admitted as immigrants between December 22, 1945, and November 1, 1954, if such original misrepresentation was predicated upon a fear of persecution if repatriated rather than to evade the existing immigration quotas.
United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1980
Directs the Joint Committee of Congress on the Library to procure a bust or statute of Frederick Douglas, to be placed in a suitable location in the Capitol.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1980
Declares February 26, 1980, as a national day of prayer, meditation, and unity if the hostages being held in Iran are not released by February 25, 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1980
Provides that Government life insurance shall be paid in accordance with any election of the insured. Stipulates that if at the time of death no such election has been made, the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs shall notify the beneficiary who shall elect whether to receive payment in a lump sum or in installments. Directs the Administrator to notify all insured individuals have not made such election concerning the effect of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1980
Establishes the Women's Rights National Historical Park in Seneca Falls, New York, to preserve and interpret the nationally significant historical and cultural sites and structures associated with the formal beginning of the struggle for equal rights for women. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire such land, or interest therein he deems necessary, by donation, purchase with donated or appropriated funds, or exchange. Limits fee acquisition to specified Women's Rights Historic Sites in Seneca Falls, New York. Directs the Secretary to encourage local and State agencies to establish a preservation commission to develop and implement a plan for the preservation and rehabilitation of the area within the park boundary. Authorizes the Secretary to provide technical assistance and funding for such plan, up to a limit of 50 percent of the total cost. Establishes the Women's Rights National Historical Park Advisory Commission. Terminates such commission 10 years after the date of establishment of the park. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into cooperative agreements with appropriate nonprofit entities for developing and implementing programs related to the women's rights movement. Directs the Secretary, within three years, to submit to specified Congressional committees, a general management plan for the women's rights historic sites. Requires any Federal entity conducting or supporting activities directly affecting the park to consult with the Secretary prior to the issuance of final approval for such activity, license, or permit.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1980
Expresses the sense of Congress that the Soviet Union should release Andrei Sakharov from internal exile immediately. Urges the President to: (1) protest Sakharov's exile and the continued suppression of human rights in the Soviet Union; (2) call upon other nations to join in such protests and impose sanctions against the Soviet Union; and (3) inform Helsinki signatory governments that the U.S. delegation intends to raise these violations at the 1980 Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe review meeting.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1980
Amends the Consumer Product Safety Act to eliminate a prohibition against regular officers or employees of the Consumer Product Safety Commission, above the GS - 14 level, accepting employment or compensation from any manufacturer subject to such Act, for a period of 12 months after terminating employment with the Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1980
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow individual taxpayers a refundable income tax credit equal to 50 percent of the amount of energy saved during the taxable year (based on the amount of energy expenditures for 1978) with respect to the principal residence of the taxpayer. Terminates the authorization for such credit for taxable years beginning after December 31, 1985.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1980
Establishes a Commission on More Effective Government to study and recommend ways of promoting economy, efficiency, and improved service within the Federal Government. Directs the Commission to recommend methods to improve the relationship between Federal, State, and local governments. Provides for the appointment of members of the Commission by the President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the President pro tempore of the Senate. Sets forth provisions governing the organization and compensation of the Commission and its staff. Empowers the Commission to establish advisory councils and committees as it deems appropriate without regard to the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. Sets forth the powers of the Commission enabling it to gather information free from subsequent review or comment by any Federal agency. Directs the Commission to submit its final report to the Congress ten days after the Ninety-eighth Congress convenes. Terminates the Commission 90 days after such date. Authorizes the appropriation of funds necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1980
Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1980 - Title I: Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish and revise within one year safety rules and regulations to assure that: (1) commercial motor vehicles are safely maintained, equipped, loaded, and operated; (2) the responsibilities imposed upon drivers of such vehicles do not impair a driver's ability to operate such vehicle safely; (3) the physical condition of such drivers will be adequate to enable them to drive safely; and (4) the operation of such vehicles does not create deleterious effects on the physical condition of such drivers. Permits the Secretary to waive such rules and regulations if to do so is in the public interest and consistent with the safe operation of commercial motor vehicles. Directs the Secretary and the Director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor to undertake, and submit to Congress within one year a study of health hazards to which operators of commercial vehicles are exposed. Requires the development of such materials and information as are necessary to enable such employees to carry out their employment free from recognized hazards capable of causing serious injury. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct research, development, demonstration, and training activities to develop such rules and regulations, to design and develop improved enforcement procedures and technologies, and to familiarize affected persons with such regulations. Authorizes the Secretary to require persons subject to this Act to maintain such records and make such reports as are necessary to insure compliance with this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct investigations and inspections without notice to enforce this Act. Requires the Secretary to timely investigate nonfrivolous complaints alleging a material violation of any rule or regulation issued under this Act. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for such violations. Provides for judicial review of final orders with respect to such alleged violations. Prohibits an employer from discriminating or taking punitive actions against employees who complain of safety violations, who participate in any proceeding regarding such alleged violations, or who refuse to operate a vehicle when to do so would materially violate motor carrier safety violations. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States for up to 80 percent of the costs of the development or implementation of programs for the enforcement of commercial motor vehicle safety regulations. Authorizes appropriations for such purpose for fiscal years 1981, 1982 and 1983. Requires States which agree to enforce this Act to submit an enforcement plan to the Secretary for approval. Sets forth requirements which must be included in any such plan. Permits any State agency to adopt additional or more stringent rules and regulations which are consistent with the Federal rules and regulations. Permits any State to retain existing hours-of-service regulations except where such regulations diminish commercial motor vehicle safety or are unduly burdensome on interstate commerce. Requires the Secretary to submit annual reports to the Congress regarding current plans to upgrade the safety and health of operators of commercial motor vehicles. Directs the Secretary to submit a report to Congress within 12 months regarding the advisability of establishing a national commercial vehicle driver register to upgrade safety through improved monitoring of traffic accidents and violations and of multiple State licensing. Exempts vehicles engaged in farming or logging operations from the requirements of this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish a Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Advisory Committee to review research projects and proposed regulations, make recommendations and advise the Secretary on matters relating to the activities and functions of the Department in the field of commercial motor vehicle safety. States that membership on such Committee shall be appointed by the Secretary.
![Official portrait of Rep. Scheuer, James H. [D-NY-8]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/7e670fd18b46ab357b2266777634a548_200.jpg)