United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1975
Condemns the resolution adopted by the Third Committee of the United Nations General Assembly which equates Zionism with racism, and urges the U.N. General Assembly to disapprove such resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 8 October 1975
Provides that within 15 days after the passage of this Act, the Federal Power Commission shall by regulation exempt natural gas companies from regulation under the Natural Gas Act of any activities or operation relating to the transportation or sale of natural gas; including natural gas subject to any contract for the sale or delivery of such gas, to any interstate natural gas pipeline company which does not have a sufficient supply of natural gas to fulfill the firm contractual requirements of specified customers, and which is curtailing deliveries pursuant to a curtailment plan on file with the Commission. Provides that no exemption granted under this Act shall exceed one year in duration, but the Commission may, for good cause shown, extend any exemption granted for an additional one year. States that the Commission shall not deny, in whole or in part, the purchase price paid by an interstate natural gas pipeline company for gas exempted under this Act and regulations issued hereunder.
United States · United States Congress · 8 October 1975
Permanent Tax Reduction Act - Stipulates that no provision of this Act shall take effect unless Congress passes a concurrent resolution providing for a fiscal year budget limitation of $395,000,000,000. Title I: Permanent Reductions in Individual Income Taxes - Increases the personal income tax exemption to $1000 under the Internal Revenue Code. Authorizes a standard deduction of $2,500 for married couples filing a joint return, $1,800 for an unmarried individual, and $1,250 in the case of a married individual filing a separte return. Provides for a permanent reduction in the amount of income tax imposed on married individuals, heads of households, and unmarried individuals. Revises the optional tax tables to include increases in the low-income allowance and permanent reductions in individual income taxes. Title II: Permanent Reductions in Corporate Income Taxes - Provides for a reduction in the corporate tax rates, corporate surtax, and surtax exemption. Title III: Permanent Increase in Investment Credit - Makes permanent the increase in the investment credit under the Internal Revenue Code. Title IV: Incentives for the Expansion of Electric Power Facilities - Increases to 12 percent the investment credit for property used predominantly in the trade or business of furnishing electrical energy (other than property using petroleum or natural gas as its principal fuel.) Eliminates the phase-in of qualified progress expenditure credits for specified electric utility property. Extends until January 1, 1981, the period in which pollution control facilities may qualify for the five year amortization deduction. Authorizes a 5 year amortization deduction for certified fuel conversion electric power generating facilites. Permits taxpayers meeting specified requirements set forth in the Electric Power Facility Construction Incentive Act to depreciate qualified progress expenditures for electric utility property. Sets forth limitations governing such deduction. Exempts dividend reinvestments in the common stock of public electric utilities from taxation. Provides special tax rules for dispositions of utility stocks.
United States · United States Congress · 29 September 1975
Establishes in the House of Representatives a Select Committee on Energy. Authorizes the committee to conduct a study with respect to all aspects of the exploration, research and development, production, importation, distribution, and use of all energy-related natural resources, including national priorities and policies with regard to energy.
United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1975
Title I: Oil Pricing Act - Extends the authority of the President to promulgate regulations providing for the mandatory allocation of crude oil, residual fuel oil and refined petroleum products until January 31, 1979. Requires such regulations to provide for a primary ceiling price for controlled old crude oil not to exceed the ceiling price for controlled old crude oil pursuant to the regulation in effect on August 31, 1975, and for a secondary ceiling price for all crude oil other than controlled old crude oil. States that if the President finds at any time after November 1, 1975, that there is no shortage of a particular oil or product, and that exempting such product from regulation will not have an adverse effect on the supply of any other oil or refined petroleum products, he may exempt such item from regulations pertaining to either allocation of amounts or specifications of price. Title II: Oil Deregulation Tax Act - Imposes an excise tax under the Internal Revenue Code on the deregulation profits from taxable domestic crude oil removed from the premises during each taxable period, in an amount equal to 90 percent of the deregulation profit from each taxable barrel of crude oil removed. Allows a tax credit for persons subject to such tax in an amount equal to the lower of 50 percent of the amount of tax imposed for such taxable period or such person's plowback investment for such taxable period. Requires the purchaser of domestic crude oil to furnish to the person liable for such tax a monthly statement showing specified information, including: (1) the amount of domestic crude oil purchased from such person during such month, and (2) the amount of taxable domestic crude oil purchased from such person during such month. Establishes criminal penalties for willful failure to furnish required information regarding the deregulation profits tax on domestic crude oil.
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1975
Provides that within 15 days after the passage of this Act, the Federal Power Commission shall by regulation exempt natural gas companies from regulation under the Natural Gas Act of any activities or operation relating to the transportation or sale of natural gas; including natural gas subject to any contract for the sale or delivery of such gas, to any interstate natural gas pipeline company which does not have a sufficient supply of natural gas to fulfill the firm contractual requirements of specified customers, and which is curtailing deliveries pursuant to a curtailment plan on file with the Commission. Provides that no exemption granted under this Act shall exceed one year in duration, but the Commission may, for good cause shown, extend any exemption granted for an additional one year. States that the Commission shall not deny, in whole or in part, the purchase price paid by an interstate natural gas pipeline company for gas exempted under this Act and regulations issued hereunder.
United States · United States Congress · 5 September 1975
National Commission on Regulatory Reform Act - Establishes the National Commission on Regulatory Reform. Directs the Commission to make a full and complete study of such regulatory activities of the independent regulatory agencies of the Federal Government as the Commission determines to be primarily economic in nature and to have a significant effect on the segments of the economy involving transportation, communication, the development and distribution of energy resources, or financial institutions. States that such study shall be undertaken to determine: (1) whether such regulatory activities have limited competition within such segments of the economy, and if they have, what the economic consequences have been, (2) whether such regulatory activities have, in other way, contributed to current economic difficulties, in particular inflation; and (3) whether changes need to be made with regard to such independent Federal establishments and their regulatory activites. Requires that such study shall include, with regard to each independent Federal establishment whose regulatory activities are included in such study: (1) an analysis of the purposes for which it was created, its structure and jurisdiction, the statutory framework governing its operation and activities, and the procedures and policies it has adopted; (2) an assessment of its effectiveness in carrying out its purposes; (3) an analysis of the costs and benefits of its various programs and policies, with particular reference to any adverse economic impact; and (4) an examination of the relationship between its regulatory activities and those of State and local regulatory agencies. Sets forth the membership, powers, and authority of the Commission. Directs the Commission to submit to the President and Congress within one year a report containing: (1) a statement of the status of the study being conducted pursuant to this Act; (2) a detailed statement of any findings made or conclusions reached by the Commission; and (3) any recommendations for legislation or administrative action, or both, deemed appropriate by the Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
National Food Stamp Reform Act - Defines the term "income" as used in the Food Stamp Act as the monthly gross income of all members of a household, including any in-kind payment, and the total value of any publicly funded assistance payments which supplement food and housing needs. Excludes specified individuals from the definition of "household. Provides for the distribution of federally donated foods to households upon the request by a political subdivision that such distribution be made to all eligible households in lieu of food stamps. Excludes households from eligibility for food stamps: (1) if the monthly household income exceeds the poverty index level of income established by the Office of Management and Budget; or (2) if the market value of liquid and nonliquid resources of a household consisting of one individual exceeds $1,500 or the resources of a multiple member household exceed $2,250 exclusive of specified resources. Excludes from eligibility households which include an able-bodied adult between the ages of 18 and 65 who is enrolled in an institution of postsecondary education and such enrollment is a substitute for fulltime employment. Declares that a refusal to work at a plant or site because of a strike or other labor dispute shall be deemed a refusal to work which makes the household of the nonworking individual ineligible for food stamps. Rejects as an excuse for refusal to accept work a condition of employment which requires an individual to join, resign from, or refrain from joining any labor organization. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to require each household receiving benefits under this Act to report its income at least once each month. Requires food coupons to be designed with a space for the recipient to sign upon receipt and again at redemption. Requires one member of each eligible household to be issued a photo-identification card with a color photograph of the recipient. States that such card must be presented at redemption at a food store. Sets forth specific instructions to provide control and accountability over the distribution of food coupons to State agencies. Ties the value of the coupon allotment to the overall retail cost-of-living index. States that the "nutritionally adequate diet" as used to determine the amount of the coupon allotment shall mean the low-cost food plan developed by the Agricultural Research Service of the Department of Agriculture. Establishes as the charge a household shall pay for its coupon allotment the lesser of: (1) the percentage of its income which would be expended for food by an average household of its size and income range in the same region of the country; or (2) 30 percent. Provides, under the requirements for State plans for the administration of the food stamp program, for closer State supervision of eligibility by households. Requires the State agencies administering the program to conduct nutrition education programs for recipients. States that the United States Postal Service shall serve as a food stamp issuing agency upon the request of a State food stamp administration agency. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to pay the States 100 percent of the costs of providing food stamps to eligible aliens, and 75 percent of the costs of State investigations, prosecutions, collections of claims and other State activities related to retrieving food stamp losses. Provides for payment by the Federal Government to the States of a share of the difference between the face value of the coupon allotment and the amount charged eligible households for the allotment. Sets forth the method of determining and paying the Federal share. Directs the transfer of all functions of the Secretary of Agriculture under the Food Stamp Act to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Provides, in the case of cancellations of Federal disaster assistance loans made to individuals, that such cancellations shall be excluded from gross income in the same proportion as $15,000 bears to the individual's adjusted gross income.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Congressional Public Financing Act - Adds a new subtitle to the Internal Revenue Code: the Congressional Election Campaign Fund Act. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to maintain in the Presidential Election Campaign Fund a separate account to be known as the Congressional Election Payment Account. Directs the Secretary to deposit into the Congressional Election Payment Account that portion of the annual amounts designated by taxpayers on their income tax returns that equals the excess above 25 percent of the total amount made available in the last Presidential election. Authorizes the Federal Election Commission to conduct an examination and audit of the campaign contributions raised for purposes of obtaining matching funds and the qualified campaign expenditures made by all candidates for Federal office and official political party committees who received payments under this Act. Provides criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Provides for payments of funds in amounts matching the contributions received by candidates for the office of U.S. Senator or U.S. Representative. Imposes limitations on the amounts of such funds to be disbursed to any individual candidate, and restricts the uses to which such matching funds may be put.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Declares that a greater unity of the Atlantic Community would strengthen the common defense, assure more adequate energy resources and improve commerce. Establishes an eighteen-member delegation authorized to organize and participate in a convention attended by delegations from North Atlantic Treaty parliamentary democracies. States that the convention shall explore the possibility of agreement on the means to transform the relationship of such nations into a more effective unity based on federal principles. Provides for appointment of delegates to the convention. Allows the delegation to maintain a staff. Authorizes the appropriation of $200,000 to carry out the purposes of this joint resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 8 July 1975
Allows, under the Internal Revenue Code and the Social Security Act, a refund or credit for taxes paid under the Federal Insurance Contributions Act to individuals who are members of recognized religious sects that reject the Federal Insurance programs. Exempts employers engaged in farming, and their employees, from the Federal Insurance Contributions tax where both are members of a religious faith opposed to participation in such a program.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1975
Revises the Internal Revenue Code in order to change the braket tax on cigars to an ad valorem tax. States that the tax on cigars weighing more than three pounds per thousand shall be eight and one-half percent of the wholesale price but not more than $20 per thousand. Defines wholesale price as manufacturer's suggested delivered price. Provides that records of manufacturers shall be available for inspection by any internal revenue officer during business hours.
United States · United States Congress · 19 June 1975
Provides, under the Internal Revenue Code, for increased moving expense deductions for meals and lodging at the location of the former residence and for an additional 30 days (for a total of 60 days) in the area of the new place of employment. Reduces from 50 to 20 miles the minimum distance from the new place of work which is required to authorize a deduction for moving expenses. Increases the aggregate amount allowable as a deduction for meals and lodging, and for transportation. Increases the deduction for a married couple filing separately when both husband and wife commence work at the new location. Excludes from gross income any amount received by an employee from his employer as reimbursement of moving expenses. Sets forth conditions under which the deduction for moving expenses will be disallowed or limited.
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 1975
Provides that a charitable organization shall be denied exemption from taxation under the Internal Revenue Code where amounts paid or incurred by such organization during each taxable year to influence legislation exceed specified sums of money, or where a significant portion of the activities of such organization consists of carrying on propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation. Designates charitable organizations to which this Act applies, and defines the term "influencing legislation". Disallows deductions to charitable organizations where the contribution is made for the purpose of influencing legislation.
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 1975
Broadcast License Renewal Act - Permits the Federal Communications Commission to extend three-year broadcast licenses for an additional two years upon a finding of public interest. Requires in making such determination, considerations of whether different term lengths for radio and television stations and for different categories of licensees are in the public interest. Limits other class licenses to a five-year maximum, prescribing the renewal procedures for such licenses and the criteria to be considered in renewal, including responsiveness and lack of serious deficiencies. Sets guidelines for expeditious action on applications for renewal of broadcasting station licenses by limiting material required to be filed. Requires the Commission to examine the renewal process and report within six months on methods of reducing and consolidating filings and supporting documents.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1975
Provides that specified forms of zinc shall be admitted to the United States free of import duties under the Tariff Schedules of the United States on or before June 30, 1978.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1975
Prohibits franked mailings by Members of the Congress and officers of the United States other than mailings related to the closing of their official business, after such Members or officers have left office. (Amends 39 U.S.C. 3210 (b) (1))
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1975
Authorizes the President to designate any country eligible for the tariff perferences extended to developing countries under the Trade Act of 1974 if the President determines that such designation is in the national economic interest. Requires the President to report such determination to the Congress, together with reasons therefor. States that countries which withhold vital commodities from international trade are ineligible for such a determination.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1975
Provides under the Internal Revenue Code for a decrease by one-half of the reduction of the allowable deduction of a charitable contribution of inventory or other property used in a trade or business, if such property is related to the purpose of the organization's tax exempt status, the property is not transferred for other property, the property consists solely of medical supplies, and the taxpayer receives a written statement concerning the use of the property.
United States · United States Congress · 26 March 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to establish the Valley Forge National Historical Park in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Stipulates that such park is not to exceed three thousand five hundred acres. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1975
Creates a select committee in the House of Representatives with authority to conduct a full and complete investigation of the problem of United States servicemen missing in action or known to be dead whose bodies have not been recovered, as a result of military operations in North Vietnam, South Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. Provides that such investigation shall include an examination of the need for additional international inspection teams to determine whether there are servicemen still held as prisoner of war. Authorizes the Committee to hold hearings, issue subpenas, and maintain a staff as necessary to carry out its responsibilities under this resolution. Directs the committee to report to the House the results of its investigation no later than one year after adoption of this resolution. Provides that the committee's authority shall expire 30 days after the filing of such report. Directs that the expenses of the select committee shall be paid from the contingent fund of the House of Representatives upon vouchers signed by the Chairman.
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1975
Establishes a national adoption information exchange system in the Department of Health, Education and Welfare to aid in the placement of children for adoption. Authorizes $1,000,000 to be appropriated for fiscal year 1975 and such sums as may be necessary for succeeding fiscal years, to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1975
Provides that specified forms of zinc shall be admitted to the United States free of import duties under the Tariff Schedules of the United States on or before June 30, 1978.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1975
Creates on the books of the Treasury of the United States the Abandoned Coal Mine Reclamation Fund to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior. Specifies that the fund shall be available for acquisition and reclamation of land and other specified similar purposes. Authorizes to be appropriated annually to the fund such amounts as are necessary to give the fund income of not less than $200,000,000. Requires to be credited to the fund any amounts necessary to maintain this level of income. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to enter into agreements of not more than 10 years duration to provide for land stabilization, erosion and sediment control, and reclamation through conservation treatment. Makes it the duty of land owners to furnish to the Secretary a plan, to be agreed to by both parties, setting forth the land uses and conservation treatment to be effected on the lands described in the agreement. Allows the Secretary to furnish assistance to such landowners to carry out the treatment necessary, up to a maximum of 80 percent of the cost, and on not more than 30 acres of land. Requires the Secretary to utilize the services of the Soil Conservation Service, and the State and local committees provided for in the Soil Conservation and Domestic Allotment Act, and Authorizes the Secretary to utilize the facilities of the Commodity Credit Corporation. Authorizes the Secretary to acquire land or any interest therein which has been affected by surface mining and has not been reclaimed to its approximate original condition. Requires the Secretary to specifically determine the cost and the benefits to the public of such acquisition and reclamation. Empowers the Secretary to take title to land in the name of the United States under the eminent domain power of the United States where no such agreement can be reached. Encourages the States to acquire abandoned and unreclaimed lands within their boundaries and to transfer such lands to the Secretary to be reclaimed under appropriate Federal regulations. Empowers the Secretary to make grants and matching basis to States up to 90 percent of the cost of acquisition. Requires the Secretary to prepare specifications for the reclamation of lands acquired under this section. Stipulates that each reclamation contract be approved by the Secretary, and be awarded to the lowest qualified bidder. Requires that the Secretary, in selecting lands to be acquired give priority to lands which meet the objectives of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to sell such lands under regulations that will ensure that such lands will be put to proper use. Permits the Secretary to use money in the fund to acquire, reclaim, develop, and transfer land to any State, or instrumentality of a State, if such is a necessary part of a project to provide State welfare services. Empowers the Secretary at the request of a Governor to fill such voids and seal abandoned tunnels, shafts, and entryways.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1975
Designates the Veterans' Administration hospital in Loma Linda, California, as the "Jerry L. Pettis Memorial Veterans' Hospital. Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to provide a memorial at such hospital in memory of the late Jerry L. Pettis.
United States · United States Congress · 20 February 1975
Federal Records Management Act - Defines terms used in this Act and declares that the purpose of this Act is to require the establishment of standards and procedures to assure efficient and effective records management in the Federal Government. States that such standards and procedures shall seek to effectuate specified goals, including: (1) accurate and complete documentation of the policies and transactions of the Federal Government; (2) control of the quantity and quality of records produced by the Federal Government; and (3) simplification of the processes through which records are created, stored, retrieved, and used. Directs that the Administrator of General Services shall provide guidance and assistance to Federal agencies with respect to records creation, records maintenance and use, and records disposition. Requires the Administrator to conduct inspections or paperwork studies of the records, records practices, and records management programs of every Federal agency. Authorizes and directs the Administrator to charge any Federal agency for the cost of any paperwork study. Directs the Administrator to transmit yearly reports to Congress. Enumerates the types of information that such report shall contain. Establishes the Records Review Board as an independent organization in the executive branch, such Board to consist of five members. Sets the rates of pay for Board members. Allows the Board to appoint and fix the pay of such personnel as it deems necessary to carry out its functions under this Act. Empowers any executive agency to appeal to the Board any order issued by the Administrator pursuant to this Act. Requires the head of each Federal agency to make and preserve records containing adequate and proper documentation of the organization, functions, policies, decisions, procedures, and essential transactions of such Agency. Grants the Administrator immediate custody and control of the National Archives Building and its contents. Directs the Administrator to establish standards for the selective retention of records of continuing value. Authorizes the Administrator to establish and operate records centers for specified purposes and centralized microfilming services for Federal agencies. States that the head of each Federal agency shall establish safeguards against the removal or loss of records he determines to be necessary and required by the rules of the Administrator. Authorizes the Administrator to prescribe such rules as he considers essential to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1975
Declares the finding of Congress that domestic supplies of natural gas and petroleum are not sufficient to meet present and anticipated national and regional needs. Declares that the purpose of this Act include: (1) to direct the Federal Power Commission to observe specified congressionally defined objectives in the administration of its authority under the Natural Gas Act respecting the curtailment of natural gas distributed in interstate commerce; and (2) to establish a means to compel transfers of supplies of naturl gas among natural-gas companies. Directs the Commission to review each curtailment plan which is in effect on the date of enactment of this Act, and to modify such plan as to assure the attainment of the goals set forth in this Act. Provides that any curtailment plan shall, to the maximum extent practicable, provide for: (1) the protection of public health, safety, and welfare, and national defense; (2) maintenance of all public services; (3) maintenance of agricultural operations; and (4) minimization of economic distortion. Directs the Commission to direct the interchange, delivery, or transportation of natural gas among natural-gas companies as may be appropriate to the attainment of such objectives. Sets forth procedures for notice to the public and companies who may be affected by specified Commission action.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1975
Allows a deduction from gross income under the Internal Revenue code of up to $1250 ($625 in the case of a married individual filing separately) for social agency, legal, and related expenses incurred in connection with the adoption of a child by the taxpayer.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1975
Authorizes appropriations for the Interstate Commerce Commission, Federal Aviation Administration, Federal Power Commission, the Securities and Exchange Commission, Federal Communications Commission, Civil Aeronautics Board, and the Food and Drug Administration for fiscal years 1976, 1977, and 1978.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1975
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the President and the Secretary of the State should take the necessary steps, including the renewal of negotiations between the parties, signatory to the Paris agreement and the agreement with the Lao Patriotic Front, to finally determine the fate of all United States servicemen and civilians missing in Southeast Asia. Directs the Speaker of the House of Representatives to transmit a copy of this resolution to the President who is requested to report to the House in 90 days on steps taken to implement this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1975
Energy Independence Act - Title I: Naval Petroleum Reserves - Declares it to be the policy of the United States to fully explore and develop the Naval Petroleum and Oil Shale Reserves and to create with the petroleum and revenue produced therefrom a National Strategic Petroleum Reserve capacity. States that such reserves shall be held until needed for the emergency requirements of national security. Provides that such reserve shall consist of not more than 1,300,000,000 barrels of petroleum of which 300,000,000 if for military use and up to 1,000,000,000 barrels is for civilian consumption. Enumerates reserves that come within the Naval Petroleum and Oil Shale Reserves created by this title. Establishes a National Strategic Petroleum Reserve Special Fund and credits into such Fund specified proceeds. Sets forth the purposes for which the Fund shall be available to the President, including the exploration, prospecting, conservation, development, use, operation, and production of the Naval Petroleum and Oil Shale Reserves. Creates under the management of the Secretary of the Navy a National Strategic Petroleum Reserve (military) which shall include a stock of readily deliverable petroleum in the amount of 300,000,000 barrels to meet the emergency requirements of military use for national security. Authorizes the Secretary to request the Attorney General to institute proceedings to acquire by condemnation, if necessary, any property essential to carrying out the establishment of such Reserve. Provides that if the President determines that the national security is threatened by an emergency such as an embargo by a foreign country or armed conflicts, the resources of the National Strategic Petroleum Reserve (military) may be utilized as directed by the President to meet military requirements for the duration of such emergency. Title II: National Strategic Petroleum Reserve (Civilian) Act - Creates a National Strategic Energy Reserve (civilian) and authorizes the President to: (1) acquire by purchase, condemnation, or otherwise lands or interests therein for the location of storage and related facilities; and (2) establish an Industrial Strategic Petroleum Reserve as part of the National Strategic Petroleum Reserve (civilian) by requiring any person engaged in the importation or refining of petroleum to acquire, store, and maintain petroleum reserves under such terms as the President deems necessary. Authorizes the President, upon a finding that the national security is threatened, to use, sell, or otherwise dispose of all or any part of the government owned portion of the National Strategic Petroleum Reserve (civilian) and order the disposition and allocation of all or any part of the Industrial Strategic Petroleum Reserve (civilian) portion of the National Strategic Petroleum Reserve (civilian). Requires the President, within one year after the date of enactment of this title, to prepare and submit to Congress a report setting forth those actions taken under this title and his plans for providing a strategic energy reserve system in accordance with this title. Title III: Amendments to the Natural Gas Act - States that the provisions of the Natural Gas Act, other than as specifically provided in such Act, shall not apply to sales or deliveries in interstate commerce by any person of natural gas: (1) which is dedicated to interstate commerce for the first time on or after January 1, 1975; (2) which is continued in interstate commerce after the expiration of a contract by its own terms for the sale or delivery of such natural gas existing as of such date; or (3) which is produced from wells commenced after such date. Defines "new natural gas" and declares that the Federal Power Commission shall have no power to disallow in the rates and charges made by any natural gas company the amounts paid for new natural gas, except as provided by this title. Title IV: Extension of and Amendments to the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act - Provides, under the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act, that the Federal Energy Administrator shall, by order, prohibit any powerplant, and may, by order, prohibit any major fuel burning installation, other than a powerplant, from burning natural gas or petroleum products as its primary energy source if such plant or installation had on June 22, 1974, or thereafter acquires, the capability to burn coal. Title V: Clean Air Act Amendments - Provides that the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall extend for a period ending not later than January 1, 1985, any stationary source fuel or emission limitation respecting emissions of sulfur oxides from a powerplant using coal as its primary energy source, if he finds that such powerplant can apply interim measures which provide a means for attaining and maintaining national primary ambient air quality standards for sulfur oxides. Requires the Administrator to give notice to the public and afford an opportunity for oral and written presentation of data, views, and arguments before issuing any compliance date extension. Provides, under the Clean Air Act, that regulations applicable to emmissions of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons from light-duty vehicles and engines manufactured during model years 1971 through 1981, inclusive, shall contain standards equivalent to the emission standards for those pollutants that apply to new vehicles and engines offered for sale in the State of California during the model year 1975. Declares that during or after model year 1982, such regulations shall be established at such levels as the Administrator determines is appropriate considering specified factors, including air quality and energy efficiency. States that the owner or operator of a "new source" of emissions may request the Administrator for authorization to attempt to meet applicable performance standards by means of a system or systems of emission reduction which have not been determined by the Administrator to be adequately demonstrated. Provides that upon application by the Governor of a State on or after June 1, 1976, the Administrator may extend for not more than five years the deadline for attainment of national primary ambient air quality standards where transportation control measures are necessary for the attainment of such standards and where their implementation would have serious adverse social or economic consequences. States that where the Administrator denies an extension application, he may, after consultation with the appropriate State and local elected officials, propose and promulgate an implementation plan meeting the specified requirements. Authorizes the Administrator to request the Attorney General to commence a civil action for appropriate relief for violations of specified provisions of the Clean Air Act, including a temporary or permanent injunction, and a civil penalty of not more than $25,000 per day of violation, or both. Title VI: Amendment to the Clean Air Act - Provides, under the Clean Air Act, that nothing in such Act is intended to require or authorize the establishment by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency of standards more stringent than primary and secondary ambient air quality standards. Title VII: Utilities Act - Declares that shortages and unreliable supplies of electricity caused by the financial problems of the utilities now exist or are imminent and jeopardize the normal flow of interstate and foreign commerce by creating severe economic dislocation, including loss of jobs, and curtailments of vital public services. States that the purpose of this title is to set minimum standards for specified regulatory practices and procedures governing electric utilities and for making rates more reflective of costs. States that no regulatory authority (which is defined to include a State or local regulatory authority) may suspend or otherwise defer the operation of a utility's rate schedule properly filed with it and defer the use of the rate, charge, classification, or service established by such schedule for a period longer than five months from the date such schedule accompanied by all required supporting documentation is filed, or five months beyond the time when it would otherwise go into effect, whichever is later. Provides that no regulatory authority may prohibit or otherwise make unlawful the inclusion in a utility's rate base of reasonable and prudent expenditures associated with construction work in progress, provided that such authority may limit the annual amount to be included to the lesser of (1) 15 percent of the total rate base, or (2) the value which such construction work would have if otherwise includable in the rate base. States that no regulatory authority may prohibit the inclusion in a utility's rate base of capital costs associated with environmental control facilities and equipment required by Federal, State, or local law. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this title. Title VIII: Energy Facilities Planning and Development Act - Requires the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration, within one year after the enactment of this title, to prepare and submit to the President and to Congress a National Energy Site and Facility Report, which shall analyze short and long term energy needs and demand and indicate the number, type, and general location of energy facilities required to meet national energy objectives. Declares that such Report shall be developed in consultation with the States, industry, and other appropriate Federal agencies. Sets forth types of information the Report shall include. Provides for public hearings prior to the completion of the Report. Provides that, within one year from the issuance of the Administrator's Report, each State shall submit to the Administrator for approval an energy facility management program for long term energy facility planning and the achievement of energy production needs by the expeditious consideration and processing of applications to site, construct, and operate energy facilities. States that the Administrator shall hold at least one public hearing on the State's program within the State and shall approve or disapprove such plan in whole or in part within 120 days after the date of its submission. Allows any aggrieved party to bring suit to enforce an approved management program or promulgated State management program being administered by the State, in a appropriate Federal district court, or in any appropriate State court. Empowers the Administrator to make grants to the States for the purposes of assisting in the development of management programs. States that such authority shall expire on September 30, 1980. Directs the Administrator to encourage cooperative activities among the States regarding the siting and approval of energy facilities. Grants the consent of Congress for two or more States to enter into agreements or compacts for cooperative efforts and mutual assistance in selecting energy facility sites and approving energy facilities. Provides that the actual authority to approve or disapprove applications for energy facilities shall continue to reside in these Federal agencies possessing specific statutory authority over proposed energy facilities or their appendages. Sets forth the Administrator's duties and authorities in such approval process. Requires that a complete application for approval of a proposed energy facility other than a facility owned or to be owned by the Federal government shall be filed with the Administrator at least 18 months prior to the planned date of commencement of construction. States that the applicant for a facility may, under specified circumstances, commence construction prior to being notified by the appropriate lead Federal agency (designated on a case-by-case basis by the Administrator) that all Federal approvals have been obtained. Provides a judicial review process for persons aggrieved by a final order of a Federal agency granting or denying an application for energy facility approval. Title IX: Energy Development Security Act - Declares that the purpose of this title is to authorize and direct the President to adopt appropriate measures to prevent the prices of imported petroleum from falling to such levels that continued importation at such price levels would significantly deter the development and exploitation of domestic petroleum resources. Directs the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration, at the order of the President or upon his own motion, to determine: (1) whether the average price of petroleum imported into the United States has fallen significantly from average price levels for such imports during a recent representative period determined by the Administrator; and (2) whether such reduction in price is of such degree that it threatens the economic viability of the United States' petroleum production and development, or that it threatens to cause a substantial increase in petroleum consumption. Directs the President to impose restrictions for such time as he deems necessary to correct the conditions created by such circumstances, such restrictions to include, but not be limited to, the imposition of tariffs, quotas, and variable fees, unless he determines that such restrictions are contrary to the national interest. Title X: Building Energy Conservation Standards - States that the purposes of this title include redirecting Federal policies and practices so that Federal financial assistance for construction purposes is provided only under conditions which assure that reasonable energy conservation features will be incorporated into new buildings receiving such assistance. Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, within six months after the enactment of this title, and after consultation with the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration and the Secretary of Commerce, to develop and publish for public comment proposed prescriptive energy conservation standards for new residential buildings. Directs the Secretary to develop and publish proposed performance energy conservation standards for new commercial buildings. Provides that no Federal officer or agency shall approve any financial assistance for the construction of any building in any area of a State unless the State has certified that the unit of general local government having jurisdiction over such area has adopted and is implementing a building code or similar requirement which provides for the enforcement of any effective energy conservation standards or standards promulgated pursuant to this title. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to the States to assist them in meeting the costs of developing State building codes or State certification procedures to carry out the provisions of this title. Authorizes to be appropriated not more than $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1976 for such grants. Title XI: Winterization Assistance Act - Declares that the purpose of this title is to encourage the States to develop and implement winterization programs to insulate the dwellings of low-income persons, particularly the low-income elderly, in order to conserve energy and aid these persons least able to afford higher energy costs. Authorizes the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration to provide grants to the Governors of the various States and the Mayor of the District of Columbia to assist them in carrying out programs designed to provide for winterization of dwellings of low-income persons. Directs the Administrator to develop and publish criteria to evaluate State applications, such criteria to include: (1) the amount of fuel to be conserved by the State's winterization program and (2) the number of dwellings to be winterized by the State. Provides that the Administrator may not finally disapprove any State winterization program application without first affording the State reasonable notice and an opportunity for a hearing. Provides that no additional Federal funds may be granted if a State fails to comply with provisions of its approved application. Allows a State to appeal final action of the Administrator in the appropriate U.S. court of appeals. States that no person shall on the ground of race, color, national origin, or sex be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity funded in whole or in part with funds made available under this title. Requires the Administrator to submit to the President and Congress the results of winterization programs receiving Federal assistance under this title. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums not to exceed $9,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, and not to exceed $55,000,000 per year for each of fiscal years 1976, 1977, and 1978, to remain available until expended. Title XII: National Appliance and Motor Vehicle Energy Labeling Act - Declares it to be the purpose of this title to provide information to the public on the energy consumption characteristics of major appliances and motor vehicles so that consumers by comparing such characteristics when purchasing such major appliances and motor vehicles may select those that can effect savings in energy consumption. Authorizes the President to develop and promulgate energy conservation specifications for motor vehicles, room and central air-conditioners, refrigerators, freezers, clothes washers, dishwashers, clothes dryers, kitchen ranges and oven, water heaters, and comfort heating equipment. Gives interested persons 30 days after publication in the Federal Register of the notice of intent to promulgate or amend a specification to submit written comments on such specification, or such other time as the President finds is in the public interest. Requires each manufacturer of a product for which a specification and effective date has been promulgated to provide a label that meets and is displayed in accordance with the requirements of such specification. Provides that a specification may require the manufacturer or his agent to permit a representative designated by the President to observe and inspect tests performed on products under the terms of this title. Requires that advertisements for products covered under this title include all information about the product required by the specification applicable to such product. Declares it to be the intent of Congress that this title supersede any and all laws of the States or political subdivisions thereof insofar as they may now or hereafter provide for the disclosure of energy use or assumption, energy efficiency, efficiency ratio, or annual operating cost of any product if there is in effect and applicable any Federal specification with respect to such product. Grants the President the power to sign and issue subpenas for the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production of relevant books, records, papers, and documents. Requires that the President prepare and submit an annual report to Congress on April 1 of each year concerning the administration of this title. States that this title shall not apply to exports but shall apply to imports under regulations issued by the President. Makes it unlawful for any person to offer for sale in commerce any new product made after the effective date of an applicable specification unless there is provided with such product a label meeting the requirements of the specification. States that whoever violates any provision of this title shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than $10,000 for each violation. Gives U.S. district courts the power to grant injunctions to restrain violations. Title XIII: Standby Energy Authorities Act - States that the purposes of this title are to grant specific standby authority to impose end-use rationing and to reduce demand by regulating public and private energy consumption, and to authorize other specific temporary emergency actions to assure that the essential energy needs of the United States will be met in a manner which, to the fullest extent practicable: (1) is consistent with existing national commitments to protect and improve the environment; and (2) minimizes any adverse impact on employment. Allows the President to require by regulation, rule, or order, as a condition to any person engaging in commerce, and in the business of importing, producing, refining, marketing, or distributing petroleum, that such person maintain inventories of petroleum in excess of his normal business or operating requirements. Empowers the President to order the use, sale, disposal, and allocation of all or any part of inventories held pursuant to this Act in order to alleviate domestic shortages, and for other purposes consistent with this title. Authorizes the President to require measures to supplement domestic energy supplies, including: (1) production of specified designated existing domestic oil and gas fields at maximum practicable rates of production if necessary to meet the objectives of this title; and (2) the utilization of production on any oil and gas producing propoerties on federal lands. Gives the President the authority to provide for the allocation of petroleum for such purposes and to control the prices of petroleum allocated and to ration among classes of end-users of such product. States that the President shall provide for the making of such adjustments pursuant to the authority of this title as are practicable to prevent special hardship, inequity, or unfair distribution of burdens. Allows the President to promulgate by regulation one or more energy reservation plans which shall be designed to result in a reduction of energy consumption. Provides that the President shall transmit any energy conservation plan to each House of Congress on the date on which it is promulgated. States that actions taken under authority of this title shall not be arbitrary or capricious. Authorizes the President to encourage, support, and promote the planning and conduct of appropriate joint projects and cooperative programs in the United States and in foreign countries. Authorizes the President to restrict the export of coal, natural gas, petroleum products, and petrochemical feedstocks subject to the Export Administration Act. Makes it unlawful for any person to violate any provisions of this title or to violate any rule, regulation, or order issued pursuant to any provision and makes such violator subject to a civil penalty of not more than $5,000 for each violation. States that whoever willfully violates any provision of this title or rules issued pursuant thereto shall be fined not more than $10,000 for each violation. Makes it unlawful for any person to offer for sale or distribute in commerce any product or commodity in violation of an applicable order or regulation issued pursuant to this title. States that any person who knowingly and willfully violates this title after having been subjected to a civil penalty for a prior violation of the same provision shall be fined not more than $50,000 or imprisoned for not more than six months, or both. Authorizes the President to provide financial assistance in accordance with this title for the purpose of assisting eligible State or local energy conservation programs. Sets forth criteria for determining the amounts of financial assistance to be provided to each State. Provides that the authority under this title to prescribe any rule, regulation, or order shall expire at midnight June 30, 1985, but such expiration shall not affect any action or pending civil or criminal proceedings not finally determined on such date, nor any action or proceeding based upon any act committed prior to such time. Authorizes to be appropriated such funds as are necessary for the implementation of the provisions of this title.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1975
Revises the excise tax provisions of the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax credit or refund in the case of tread rubber for which a tax was paid and which is: (1) destroyed, scrapped, wasted, or rendered useless in the recapping or retreading process; (2) used in the recapping or retreading of tires the sale of which is later adjusted pursuant to a warranty or guaranty, in which case the overpayment shall be in proportion to the adjustment in the sales price; or (3) used in the recapping or retreading of a tire, if such tire is by any person exported, used or sold for use as supplies for vessels or aircraft, sold to a State or local government, or sold to a nonprofit educational organization for its exclusive use. Provides that a tax payment on tread rubber used in further manufacturing shall be considered an overpayment if the rubber is sold, in connection with any other article produced, to a State or local government, nonprofit educational organization or used for supplies for vessels or aircraft.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1975
States that Congress urges President Ford to utilize every appropriate means for the transmission of a request to the Government of the Soviet Union that it release from prison Valentyn Moroz and Leonid Plyuskck, and that it permit them and their immediate families to emigrate from the Soviet Union to the country of their choice.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1974
Uniform Tax Treatment of Financial Institutions Title - Provides that any debt owed to a financial institution becoming worthless or partially worthless during the taxable year shall be charged to the reserve for losses on loans for purposes of business expense deductibility under the Internal Revenue Code of 1954. Redefines the term "bank" for purposes of the general rules applicable to banking institutions under the Internal Revenue Code. Changes the rules for determination of the reserve for losses for financial institutions for each taxable year. Provides for nonrecognition of gain or loss as a result of foreclosure on any property which was security for the payment of any indebtedness. Provides that the foreclosing party's basis in such property shall be the amount of the indebtedness for which the property was secured, plus costs of foreclosure. Provides new rules for the treatment of distributions of stock to shareholders by domestic building and loan associations where such distribution does not qualify as a deduction for dividends paid on deposits. Authorizes a deduction for the repayment of loans made before September 1, 1951, by the United States or any mutual fund established pursuant to the laws of any State to financial institutions as defined in this Act. Provides for separate taxation under Subchapter L (relating to the taxation of insurance companies) of the life insurance business of a mutual savings bank where such life insurance business is conducted separately from the other business of a mutual savings bank. Allows a deduction for dividends paid on deposits to banking organizations qualifying as such for purposes of the term "bank" as expanded by the provisions of this Act. Redefines the terms "domestic building and loan association" and "cooperative bank" for the purposes of this Act. Allows as a credit against its income tax 3.5 percent (1.5 percent in the case of an individual) of the amount of interest received or accrued from qualifying residential mortgage loans if at least 70 percent of the total assets of such corporate taxpayer are qualifying residential loans. Defines the term "qualifying residential mortgage loan" for the purposes of this Act. Provides that if such credit (together with other specified tax credits allowable) exceeds the income tax for such taxable year, the taxpayer will be allowed to carry such credit back to the three taxable years preceding the unused credit year; and to the seven taxable years following the unused credit year. States that in the case of estates and trusts, and in the case of small business corporations electing taxation directly to shareholders under Subchapter S, the interest from qualifying residential mortgage loans shall be allocated among the parties in the same proportion as the income received by such entities is distributable to the beneficiaries or shareholders. Makes the necessary conforming and technical amendments to bring the related provisions of the Internal Revenue Code into consonance with the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1974
Coal Research Laboratory and Energy Research Fellowship Act - Title I: University Coal Research Laboratories - Authorizes the Director of the National Science Foundation, after consultation with the National Academy of Engineering, to designate five institutions of higher education at which university coal research laboratories will be established and operated. States that, in making designations under this Act, the Director shall consider the following criteria: (1) the institution of higher education shall be located in a State with abundant coal reserves; (2) the institution of higher education shall have experience in coal research, expertise in several areas of coal research, and currently active, outstanding programs in coal research; and (3) the institution of higher education has the capacity to establish and operate the coal laboratories to be assisted under this title. Provides that not more than one coal laboratory established pursuant to this title shall be located in a single State. Specifies information to be included in applications by institutions of higher education desiring to be designated under this title. Authorizes the Director to make grants to any designated institution of higher education to pay the Federal share of the cost of establishing and maintaining a coal laboratory. States that no institution of higher education may receive more than $4,000,000 for the construction of its coal research laboratory, including initially installed fixed equipment, nor may it receive more than $1,500,000 for initially installed movable equipment, nor may it receive more than $500,000 for new program startup expenses. Provides that no institution of higher education may receive more than $1,500,000 per year from the Federal Government for operating expenses. Establishes an Advisory Council on Coal Research. Stipulates that the Advisory Council shall advise the Director with respect to the general administration of this title, and furnish such additional advice as he may request. Authorizes appropriations of not to exceed $30,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1975 (including the cost of construction, equipment, and startup expenses) and $7,500,000 beginning with the fiscal year 1976 and for each fiscal year thereafter through the fiscal year ending June 30, 1980, to carry out the provisions of this title. Title II: Energy Resource Graduate Fellowships - Authorizes the Director to award under the provisions of this title not to exceed one thousand five hundred fellowships for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1975, and each of the five succeeding fiscal years. States that fellowships shall be awarded under the provisions of this title for graduate study and research in those areas of applied science and engineering that are related to the production, conservation, and utilization of fuels and energy. Provides that fellowships shall be awarded to students in programs leading to master's degrees. States that such fellowships may be awarded for graduate study and research at any institution of higher education, library, archive, or any other research center approved by the Director after consultation with the Commissoner of Education. Provides that recipients of fellowships under this title shall be: (1) persons who have been accepted by an institution of higher education for graduate study leading to an advanced degree or for a professional degree; and (2) persons who plan a career in the field of energy resources, production, or utilization. States that each person awarded a fellowship under this title shall receive a stipend of $4,000 for each academic year of study, and an additional amount of $500 for each such calendar year of study shall be paid to such person on account of each of his dependents. Authorizes appropriations of $11,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1975, and for each of the five succeeding fiscal years.
United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1974
States that income tax returns and return information shall be confidential. Defines returns and return information for purposes of this Act. Permits the inspection of returns and return information by individuals filing such returns by State tax officials, corporation officials, trustees, estate administrators, and by the House Ways and Committee, the Senate Finance Committee, and the Joint Committee on Internal Revenue Taxation upon request and in closed session. Permits the inspection by other committees if authorized by resolution. Allows the inspection of returns and return information by the President or his designees upon his order, and by Justice Department attorneys, without request, for use in relevant proceedings under the tax laws. Allows such inspection, under specified conditions, by the Commerce Department for statistical purposes and by other executive officials for administrative or judicial proceedings other than under the tax laws. Conditions the foregoing inspections upon whether: (1) the taxpayer is a party to the proceedings; (2) the taxpayer consents; or (3) such return information has or may have a bearing on the outcome of such proceedings. Allows qualified inspection of return information by authorized executive officials for purposes of assessing persons being considered for appointments. Authorizes the disclosure of return information to the Attorney General when such information indicates possible criminal violations. Sets forth procedures for disclosure and inspection of return information, including maintenance of a record of who inspects such return. Establishes penalties for unauthorized disclosure of return information.
United States · United States Congress · 15 August 1974
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the United States should: (1) act to relieve immediate threats of famine where it exists and assist food-short nations in increasing food production; (2) attempt to achieve an international agreement on a food reserve to be used in emergencies; (3) assist in social and economic growth and in population control (as requested) in underdeveloped nations; and (4) support the efficient use and equitable distribution of food worldwide.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1974
Provides, under the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 that penalties incurred on account of premature withdrawal of funds from time savings accounts shall be allowed as a deduction from gross income in computing adjusted gross income.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1974
Eastern Wilderness Areas Act - Designates specified lands in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, New Hampshire, North Carolina, South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin for inclusion in the National Wilderness Preservation System. Provides for a study of specified additional lands in eighteen states and Puerto Rico for such inclusion. Authorizes appropriations of such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1974
Defines, for purposes of the Old-Age and survivors Insurance Benefit program of the Social Security Act, the duration of the period of nonattendance at an educational institution permitted to a child under such program in order to remain eligible as a full-time student for child insurance benefit purposes. (Amends 42 U.S.C. 402(d)(7)(B))
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1974
Extends for three years the requirement of increased payments to States under medicaid plans under the Social Security Act for compensation or training of inspectors of long-term care institutions.