United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1983
National Commission on Neurofibromatosis Act - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish within 60 days a National Commission on Neurofibromatosis which shall formulate a plan to identify the research needed to develop an effective treatment and a cure for neurofibromatosis. Sets forth operating and related provisions. Authorizes the Commission to transmit interim reports. Requires the Commission to make a final report to the President and to each House of Congress within two years. Terminates the Commission three months after submission of the final report.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1983
Increases from 26 to 30 the number of members of the Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations, by adding: (1) one elected officer of a local government of an area with a population of less than 10,000 and one elected school board member, to be appointed by the President; and (2) one judge of a U.S. court of appeals or district court and one chief justice or judge of a State court of last resort, to be appointed by the Chief Justice of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1983
Confers jurisdiction upon the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island to hear, determine, and render judgment on any claims of two named individuals for money damages arising out of the death of their son, allegedly improperly diagnosed or treated by the U.S. Navy.
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1983
Environmental Protection Act of 1983 - Title I: Findings and Purposes - Declares that the existing governmental entities charged with preventing air, water, and land pollution have not adequately protected the environment. States the purpose of this Act to be to protect Americans against adverse effects of environmental changes through the establishment of a multimember independent regulatory commission. Title II: Establishment of Commission - Establishes the Environmental Protection Commission as an independent regulatory commission to be composed of five members appointed by the President with the Senate's approval. Sets forth provisions governing the members, officers, powers, and functions of the Commission and the functions of the Chairman of the Commission. Directs the Science Advisory Board to provide such scientific advice as the Commission may request. Sets forth guidelines for the nomination, selection, and appointment by the Chairman of an individual to fill any vacancy on the Board. Requires the Chairman to issue regulations regarding conflicts of interest with respect to members of the Board. Title III: Transfer of Functions - Transfers to the Commission all functions, not otherwise transferred by this Act to the Commission or the administrative units of the Commission, of: (1) the Environmental Protection Agency; (2) the Secretary or the Department of the Interior under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977; and (3) the Secretary or the Department of Agriculture under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. Title IV: Administrative Provisions - Part A: Personnel Provisions - Provides for the appointment and compensation of Commission officers and employees and the procurement and compensation of experts and consultants. Part B: General Administrative Provisions - Sets forth provisions governing the authority of the Commission to: (1) exercise transferred functions; (2) delegate functions to its officers and employees; (3) reallocate functions among its offices and reorganize its structure; (4) enter into and perform contracts; and (5) promulgate rules. Requires the Commission, for each proposed action to promulgate or revise a rule, to: (1) establish and make available to the public a rulemaking docket containing the comments and certain documentary information concerning each rule; (2) publish a notice of the proposed action which shall include a statement of the purpose and basis of the rule and the period available for public comment; (3) allow any person to present oral or written data on the rule during the comment period; and (4) keep the record of the rulemaking open for 30 days after completion of the proceeding to provide for submission of rebuttal or supplementary information. Requires the promulgated rule to be accompanied by: (1) a statement of its basis and purpose; (2) a justification of major changes to the rule as proposed; and (3) a response to significant data submitted during the comment period. Provides for the judicial review of such rules. Authorizes a six-month extension of a statutory deadline for the promulgation of such a rule if such extension is necessary to afford the public and the agency adequate opportunity to carry out rulemaking requirements. Authorizes the Commission to: (1) establish, alter, discontinue, or maintain regional and other field offices as necessary; (2) acquire and maintain schools, research and training facilities, and accommodation as may be necessary for employees; (3) establish eating facilities for employees at its installations; (4) provide certain facilities, services, and supplies for employees at remote locations; (5) use the resources of Federal, State, local, and foreign instrumentalities with their consent; (6) permit public and private organizations to use its facilities for Commission purposes; (7) acquire copyrights, patents, applications for patents, licenses under copyrights and patents, and releases for past patent or copyright infringement; (8) accept and use gifts, bequests, and devises of property; (9) provide advice and technical assistance related to its functions; (10) establish a working capital fund; and (11) transfer funds among Commission appropriations, with certain limitations. Directs the Commission to procure a seal of office. Requires the Commission to submit to the President and Congress at the beginning of each regular session of Congress a comprehensive report on the administration of its functions. Requires that such report include: (1) an appraisal of the incidence of health and other effects to the population resulting from environmental causes; (2) an evaluation of the degree of observance of environmental rules; (3) a summary of outstanding problems confronting the Commission; and (4) specified information on voluntary environmental standards developed with the Commission's assistance. Title V: Transitional, Savings, and Conforming Provisions - Sets forth provisions governing the transfer and allocation of personnel, appropriations, and other resources transferred to the Commission under this Act. Terminates the Environmental Protection Agency and positions in such Agency which were expressly authorized by law or compensated at an Executive Schedule pay rate. Declares that this Act shall have no effect on orders issued, determinations made, proceedings pending, or civil actions commenced before its enactment. Provides that statutory requirements for notice, hearings, and administrative or judicial review applicable to functions transferred by this Act shall continue to apply to such functions. Title VI: Effective Date and Interim Appointments - Sets forth the effective date of this Act. Provides that funds available to any agency the functions of which are transferred by this Act may, with the approval of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, be used to pay the compensation of interim officers and other expenses of establishing the Commission or transfering functions until funds for such expenses are otherwise available. Authorizes the President to designate an officer in the executive branch to act as a Commission officer for 120 days or until such office is filled, whichever occurs first.
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1983
Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the Soviet Union should comply with certain international agreements relating to human rights by pursuing a more humane emigration policy and by ceasing harassment of Jews and others seeking to emigrate; (2) Soviet compliance with internationally recognized emigration rights would significantly promote improved relations with the United States; (3) the President should convey these concerns of Congress to the Soviet Union at every appropriate opportunity; and (4) the President should also convey these concerns to U.S. allies.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1983
Handgun Crime Control Act of 1983 - Title I: Amendments to Chapter 44 of Title 18, United States Code - Amends the Federal criminal code to direct the Attorney General to approve for manufacture, assembly, importation, sale, or transfer any handgun model which is generally recognized as particularly suitable for or readily adaptable to sporting purposes. Makes it unlawful for any licensed manufacturer, importer, dealer, or collector to manufacture, assemble, sell, deliver, or transfer any handgun (other than a curio or relic) which is not an approved model. Makes it unlawful for any non-licensee to sell or transfer any handgun (other than curio or relic) unless such person knows or has reasonable cause to believe such handgun is an approved model. Prohibits a pawnbroker from being licensed as a dealer in handguns or handgun ammunition. Directs the Attorney General to review State laws providing for permits to carry and purchase handguns and certify those meeting specified standards. Allows an individual possessing a permit under a certified State law to purchase a handgun if certain requirements are met. Makes it unlawful for a licensed dealer to transfer a handgun to a person not holding a permit under a certified State law unless certain procedures are followed. Requires in any such case that the transferee appear in person at the dealer's business premises. Requires the dealer, before delivery of the handgun, to forward a copy of a sworn statement by the transferee to the chief local law enforcement officer of the transferee's place of residence and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for an identity and record check. Prohibits delivery until 21 days after submission of the sworn statement. Makes it unlawful for any licensed importer, manufacturer, dealer, or collector to sell to the same person, or for any non-licensee to purchase, three or more handguns during a period of one year without the prior approval of the Attorney General. Makes it unlawful for any person to fail to report the loss, theft, or disappearance of a handgun in his possession to the authorities within 24 hours after discovering such loss. Requires all licensed importers, manufacturers, and dealers to maintain accurate records of all handgun transfers. Makes any person who negligently transfers a handgun in violation of this Act civilly liable for the death or injury of an individual as a result of the use of such handgun by the transferee during commission of an offense. Makes it unlawful for any person to transport any firearm or ammunition in interstate or foreign commerce if such transportation violates a State law in a place through which the firearm is shipped or an ordinance at the place of sale, delivery, or other disposition. Increases the license fee for handgun dealers from $10 to $500 and for manufacturers and importers from $50 to $5,000. Makes it unlawful for any illegal alien, dishonorably discharged member of the Armed Forces, or U.S. citizen who has renounced such citizenship to possess, transport, or receive any firearm or ammunition. Amends the Omnibus Crime Control Act of 1970 to revise and increase the mandatory penalties for using or carrying a firearm during commission of a Federal felony. Deletes the requirement that the firearm be carried "illegally." Increases the additional penalty imposed for such offense to two to ten years' imprisonment for a first offense (currently, one to ten years) and five to 25 years for a second offense (currently, two to 25 years). Extends to first offenders the requirement, currently applicable only to second offenders, that the court not suspend any sentence, grant probation, or impose concurrent sentences, unless the court finds the existence of enumerated mitigating circumstances. Adds a term of parole ineligibility as an additional restriction on first offenders (two years) and subsequent offenders (five years). Title II: Gun Control Functions Transferred to the Attorney General - Transfers to the Attorney General all functions of the Secretary of the Treasury under the Gun Control Act of 1968. Establishes the Firearms Safety and Abuse Control Administration within the Department of Justice. Requires the Attorney General to report annually to Congress on the activities of the Administration. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Directs the Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations, in consultation with the U.S. Conference of Mayors and the National League of Cities, to report on the intergovernmental problems involved in controlling illicit handgun traffic and the effectiveness of the Gun Control Act of 1968.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1983
Low-Income Energy Assistance Trust Fund Act of 1983 - Amends the Department of Energy Organization Act to make unrefunded petroleum price control overcharges available for energy assistance. Establishes in the Treasury the Energy Assistance Trust Fund which shall be available for home energy assistance, residential energy efficiency programs, and other energy programs to assist low-income energy consumers. Appropriates funds which shall be transferred at least monthly from the general fund of the Treasury to the Trust Fund. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to hold the Trust Fund and report to Congress annually, starting with FY 1983, on the Trust Fund's financial condition and operations for the preceding fiscal year and for the next five fiscal years. Sets forth investment requirements pertaining to the Trust Fund. Establishes in the Department of Health and Human Services the Office of Energy Special Counsel. Transfers the Office of Special Counsel of the Department of Energy to the Energy Special Counsel. Requires that the Energy Special Counsel transmit to the President and Congress a plan for the collection of petroleum price control overcharges made in violation of the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act of 1973. Requires the Comptroller General to periodically review the Energy Special Counsel's activities and report quarterly to Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1983
Domestic Violence Prevention and Services Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to States, local public agencies, and nonprofit organizations for projects designed to prevent domestic violence and to provide immediate shelter and other assistance for victims and dependents of victims of domestic violence. Sets forth conditions for receiving the formula grants, including that the State: (1) distribute funds to local public agencies and private nonprofit organizations for domestic violence programs and services; (2) distribute at least 70 percent of such funds to private nonprofit organizations and give special emphasis to supporting community-based projects; (3) set forth procedures to assure an equitable distribution of grants within the State; (4) designate a State agency to administer the domestic violence program and coordinate all such programs within the State; (5) set forth procedures to assure active citizen participation within the State; (6) provide assurances that any project funded will coordinate its activities with other State programs and be administered by appropriately trained personnel; and (7) comply with reporting requirements. Declares that the Secretary shall not disapprove any application except after notice of and opportunity for a hearing. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to Indian tribes and intertribal organizations. Provides that such funds may not be used for direct payment to any victim of domestic violence or to a dependent of such victim, and that no income eligibility standard may be imposed for anyone seeking services under this Act. Limits the total amount of grants to any local program to $150,000 for not more than a three-year period. Limits the grant for any fiscal year to $50,000. Requires local public agencies and private organizations to provide the following shares of Federal funding: (1) 25 percent in the first year; (2) 33.33 percent the second year; and (3) 50 percent the third year. Requires that at least 75 percent of grants be distributed to entities providing immediate shelter and related assistance to victims. Authorizes the Secretary to make supplemental grants to States for: (1) administrative costs; (2) developing and implementing programs; (3) assuring active citizen participation; and (4) developing a media campaign. Provides that each State will be allotted at least $45,000 in formula grants and $7,500 in supplemental grants. Requires each State receiving assistance to submit detailed annual reports to the Secretary on the implementation of programs. Directs the Secretary to: (1) designate a director of programs carried out under this title; (2) establish a national information clearinghouse on domestic violence, in coordination with the child abuse clearinghouse; (3) make recommendations to Congress regarding domestic violence programs; and (4) obtain information on research relating to domestic violence. Directs the Secretary to make annual reports to Congress and to evaluate and report on the effectiveness of the programs no later than two years after funds are obligated. Sets forth confidentiality requirements with respect to records of persons assisted under this title. Establishes the Federal Interagency Council on Domestic Violence to assist the Secretary in coordinating Federal programs. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Secretary to report to the President and Congress within 18 months of enactment on the nature and incidence of abuse of elderly individuals.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1983
Eliminates the social security offset against annuities provided under the Survivor Benefit Plan of the armed service when the benefits received are based on the annuitant's own employment.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1983
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases Act of 1983 - Amends title IV (National Research Institutes) of the Public Health Service Act to establish a National Institute (Institute) of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases in the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Redesignates the existing National Institute of Arthritis, Diabetes, and Digestive and Kidney Diseases as the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. States that the Institute shall conduct research and related activities concerning arthritis and musculoskeletal diseases, including sports-related disorders and skin diseases. Requires the Director of the Institute, with the advice of the National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Advisory Council, to establish a national plan to coordinate such activities. Establishes within the Institute: (1) the National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases Data System; and (2) the National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1986. Establishes within the Institute: (1) an Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases Interagency Coordinating Committee; and (2) a Skin Diseases Interagency Coordinating Committee. Requires annual reports to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and to the Director of NIH. Establishes within the Institute a National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases Advisory Council. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1986 for arthritis and musculoskeletal demonstration projects and multipurpose disease centers. Requires the Institute to submit a biennial report. Transfers arthritis-related functions (including data system, advisory functions, coordinating functions, demonstration project, and multipurpose center), funds, personnel, and assets to the Institute from the existing National Institute of Arthritis, Diabetes, and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Requires the Secretary to report to the appropriate congressional committees and to the Comptroller General within 60 days regarding such transfers. Requires the Comptroller General to report to the appropriate congressional committees within 80 days regarding such transfers. Terminates the National Arthritis Advisory Board. Makes conforming amendments. Requires the Secretary, through NIH, to conduct a study of the existing combinations of disease research programs within the institutes and of the standards to be followed in establishing new or realigning existing institutes. Requires a report to the appropriate congressional committees within 18 months. Prohibits the establishment of any new institutes within six months of such report's submission. Directs the Secretary to conduct and complete within 60 days a review of the disease research programs of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (as redesignated by this Act) to determine if any of these programs could be more effectively managed by other national research institutions.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1983
Disapproves the proposed deferral of budget authority (D83-43) relating to economic development assistance programs, as transmitted by the President to the Congress on February 1, 1983.
United States · United States Congress · 8 February 1983
Designates the Mono Lake National Monument in California. Provides that the monument area shall become part of the Inyo National Forest. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to acquire the lands and waters within the monument. Specifies acquisition procedures. Requires the Secretary to protect the geologic, ecologic, and cultural resources and to provide for recreational use of the monument. Requires the Secretary to permit the full use of the monument for scientific study and research. Permits individuals holding currently valid grazing permits within the monument boundaries to continue to exercise grazing rights. Permits the reissuance of existing permits to the current permit holder as of the enactment of this Act. Requires the Secretary to submit to specified congressional committees a comprehensive management plan for the monument. Requires the construction of a visitor center within the monument. Withdraws federally owned lands and waters within the monument from entry or appropriation under the mining laws, from operation of the mineral leasing laws and the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970, and from disposition under the public land laws. Requires the Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of the Interior, the State of California, the city of Los Angeles, and the Mono County Board of Supervisors, to study and report to specified congressional committees on the consumptive use of water diverted from the Mono Lake basin. Requires the Secretary to contract with the National Academy of Sciences for a study of the biological, ecological, historical, and aesthetic values of Mono Lake and the impacts of declining water levels thereon. Requires the Academy to transmit such study to specified congressional committees and to the Chief of the Forest Service by January 1, 1987. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 8 February 1983
Social Security Student Self-Help Act of 1983 - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to revise the outside earnings limitation for full-time students at postsecondary educational institutions who are entitled to child's insurance benefits under title II.
United States · United States Congress · 8 February 1983
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that Anatoly Shcharansky should be released from prison and permitted to emigrate. Urges continued expression of U.S. opposition to the imprisonment of Anatoly Shcharansky.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1983
Maritime Services Financial Responsibility Act of 1983 - Requires owners of vessels engaged in foreign commerce and using the ports or navigable waters of the United States to establish and maintain evidence of financial responsibility to meet claims in connection with maritime services. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to refuse clearance to such vessels which upon request do not have certification from the Federal Maritime Commission of compliance with this Act. Authorizes the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to deny entry to, or detain at, any port or place in the United States any vessel which does not comply with provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1983
Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to direct the Secretary of the Treasury to implement procedures for identifying social security benefit checks issued under title II which have not been negotiated within 12 months and to credit the appropriate social security trust fund, on a monthly basis, for the amount of all unnegotiated benefit checks drawn on such trust fund. Requires the Secretary to pay a benefit check presented for payment after it has been credited to one of the trust funds, and to recharge such trust fund, if such check is otherwise proper. Authorizes appropriations to reimburse the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund for the total amount of unnegotiated benefit checks.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1983
National Heritage Resource Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow creators of artistic properties an income tax deduction for the current fair market value of literary, musical, or artistic compositions which they contribute to charitable organizations. Requires: (1) that the artistic property be created by the taxpayer at least one year prior to the time of such contribution; (2) that the fair market value of such property be appraised within one year of the date of contribution; and (3) that the donee of such property show that the use of the property will be related to the charitable purpose or function of his organization. Denies a fair market value deduction for contributions of any letter, memorandum, or similar property produced by a Federal or State employee which arose out of the performance of such employee's official duties. Exempts such fair market value deduction from the application of the minimum tax.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1983
United States Academy of Peace and Conflict Resolution Act - Establishes the United States Academy of Peace and Conflict Resolutions as an independent nonprofit corporation. Permits the Academy to use "United States" or "U.S." or any other reference to the United States Government or Nation in its title, corporate seal, emblem, or other mark of recognition in any fiscal year only if there is an authorization of appropriations for the Academy for such fiscal year provided by law. Sets forth the powers and the duties of the Academy, including establishment of an Endowment of the United States Academy of Peace and Conflict Resolution. Authorizes the Academy to: (1) conduct research on the causes of war and the elements of peace; (2) provide peace education and research programs; (3) conduct training in conflict resolution; (4) disseminate information on peace learning; (5) establish a Center for International Peace; and (6) establish a United States Medal of Peace and other medals or honors. Authorizes the Academy to refuse research requests of Federal agencies for reason of cost or of inappropriateness to the Agency's purpose or independence. Prohibits the Academy from undertaking to influence the passage or defeat of any Federal, State, local, or United Nations legislation, but permits Academy personnel to testify or make other appropriate communication when formally requested to do so by a legislative body, committee, or member thereof. Provides for appointment of members of the Academy's Board of Directors. Sets forth grounds for removal of Board members. Permits Board meetings to be closed only in exceptional circumstances. Sets forth provisions for Academy officers, employees, procedures, and records. Provides that, with certain exceptions, the Academy shall not be considered a department, agency, or instrumentality of the Government. Prohibits the use of any political test or political qualification with respect to personnel actions of the Academy or financial assistance by the Academy. Authorizes appropriations in a specified amount for an Academy principal office capitalization fund. Authorizes appropriations in specified amounts for FY 1984 and 1985 for Academy programs and administration. Requires that Academy expenses in connection with the United States Medal of Peace or the accompanying cash award be paid out of the private funds of the Endowment. Restricts contract-making authority under this Act to the extent and amounts provided in appropriation Acts. Directs the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Academy to report to the Congress and the President, beginning two years after the enactment of this Act and at two-year intervals thereafter. Directs the President to transmit to the Congress the recommendations of the appropriate Federal agencies with respect to such report and to any legislation concerning the Academy. Requires the appropriate congressional committees to hold hearings to review such report and recommendations.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1983
Equal Access to Voting Rights Act - Directs the Attorney General to promulgate guidelines to assure that registration and polling place facilities used for Federal elections are readily accessible to handicapped and elderly individuals. Sets forth minimum requirements for these guidelines. Requires States to make available registration and voting aids for handicapped and elderly individuals in Federal elections. Authorizes the Attorney General and aggrieved persons to bring actions in Federal court to enforce this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1983
Declares that the presidential certification submitted to the Congress with respect to sending military aid to El Salvador is null and void. Directs the President to immediately suspend such assistance. Requires the suspension to remain in effect during 1983. Prohibits the President from making another such certification until Congress enacts a joint resolution declaring that El Salvador has met specified conditions.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1983
Housing Finance Opportunity Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to permit the continued issuance of tax-exempt (interest excluded from gross income) mortgage revenue bonds after December 31, 1983.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1983
Amends title VII (Equal Employment Opportunity) of the Civil Rights Act to 1964 to make it an unlawful employment practice to discriminate against any individual who is physically or mentally handicapped.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1983
Amends the Export Administration Act of 1979 to exempt from the termination provisions of such Act provisions relating to the export of domestically produced crude oil.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1983
Directs the President to resume negotiations with the Soviet Union on a treaty prohibiting: (1) the testing, deployment, production, or use of any weapons system designed to damage or interfere with a spacecraft; and (2) the stationing in outer space of any weapon designed to inflict injury or damage on the Earth, in the atmosphere, or on objects placed in space. Requires such a treaty to provide for verifying compliance with its terms. Directs the President to request the United Nations to bring about multilateral negotiations banning all weapons based in space.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1983
Constitutional Amendment - States that the President and Vice President shall hold office for a term of six years. Prohibits a person: (1) from being elected more than once to each office; (2) from being elected as President if he or she has been President, or acted as President, for more than three years of another person's term; and (3) from being elected as Vice President if he or she has held such office for more than three years of another person's term. Repeals the twenty-second amendment to the Constitution.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1983
Amend rule VIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives to require a recorded vote on final passage of legislation that adjusts the pay of Members, affects limitations on outside earned income, or provides tax credits or deductions for Members of Congress as a separate or distinct class. Makes it out of order in the House to consider any bill or resolution subject to such amended rule unless: (1) it is comprised solely of the items affecting the pay or benefits of Members; and (2) it takes effect at the beginning of the subsequent Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 1 February 1983
Directs the Administrator of Veterans Affairs to establish an Advisory Committee on Women Veterans to advise the Administrator or on the administration of benefits for and needs of women veterans. Directs Committee to report annually to the Administrator on the activities of the Veterans Administration pertaining to women, together with assessments of needs and recommendations for future action. Directs the Administrator to submit such report to Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 1 February 1983
Consumer Bankruptcy Improvements Act of 1933 - Amends the Bankruptcy Code to prohibit any individual who has been a debtor in a bankruptcy case pending at any time in the preceding 180 days from being a debtor if: (1) the case was dismissed for willful failure to abide by court orders; or (2) the debtor requested and obtained the voluntary dismissal of the case following the filing of a request for relief from the automatic stay. Requires the debtor, within 30 days of filing for bankruptcy under Chapter 7 (liquidation), to give each secured creditor and the trustee a statement showing whether the debtor intends to retain or surrender the collateral, claim it as exempt, redeem it, or reaffirm debts secured by it. Sets a total exemption limit of $4,000 on personal and household items, of which each is valued at under $200. Requires debtors in a joint bankruptcy to choose either State or Federal exemptions. Makes nondischargeable any debts aggregating more than $500 incurred within 45 days of filing for bankruptcy. Declares that a debtor is able to repay a debt voluntarily. Prohibits private employers from terminating employees or discriminating against potential employees because of bankruptcy. Prohibits a trustee in bankruptcy from nullifying pre-petition payments made by a debtor to a creditor if the amount is: (1) less than $250 in a personal bankruptcy; or (2)less than $750 in a business bankruptcy. Prohibits approval of a repayment plan under Chapter 13 bankruptcies (repayment plan) if the holder of an allowed unsecured claim objects to the confirmation of the plan, unless: (1) the value of the property to be distributed under the plan on account of such claim is not less than the amount of such claim; or (2) the plan provides that all of the debtor's projected disposable income for the three-year period beginning on the date that the first payment is due under the plan will be applied to make such payments. Defines the term 'disposable income' for the purposes of the repayment plan. Requires the debtor to begin making payments to the trustee within 30 days after filing a repayment plan (currently payments do not begin until the plan is confirmed). Requires the trustee to hold such payments until a plan is confirmed or denied. Permits the debtor, unsecured creditors, or the trustee to request a modification of the repayment plan if the debtor's disposable income has changed substantially.
United States · United States Congress · 1 February 1983
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to treat as long-term capital gain, amounts actually paid to a taxpayer with respect to a small business participating debenture which constitute the distribution of a share of the earnings of the issuer. Defines "small business participating debenture" (SBPD) as a written debt instrument issued by a qualified small business which: (1) is a general obligation of such business; (2) bears interest at a specified rate; (3) has a fixed maturity; (4) grants no voting or conversion rights in the business to the purchaser; and (5) provides for the payment of a share of the issuer's total earnings. Defines "qualified small business" as one: (1) whose equity capital does not exceed $10,000,000; (2) the face value of all of whose outstanding SBPD's does not exceed $1,000,000; and (3) which has no outstanding securities subject to regulation by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Treats losses on small business participating debentures as ordinary losses. Allows an interest expense deduction for interest and share-of-earnings payments made on such debentures.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1983
Federal Computer Systems Protection Act of 1983 - Amends the Federal criminal code to establish penalties for using or attempting to use certain computers with intent to defraud, obtain property by false pretenses, embezzle, steal, or knowingly convert the property of another. Limits the kinds of computers covered by this Act to those operating in interstate commerce, or operating on behalf of the Federal Government or of a financial institution (where the prohibited conduct directly affects the computer operation). Specifies factors which Federal law enforcement officers must consider in determining whether to exercise jurisdiction over such offense, where concurrent jurisdiction exists with a State or local government. Directs the Attorney General to report annually to Congress on the extent of the exercise of such Federal jurisdiction.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1983
Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to prohibit the employment of any blind person, or person with impaired sight, at less than the applicable minimum wage under such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1983
Space Commerce Act - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to issue licenses for launching private sector space objects. Sets forth the conditions for issuing a license, including the ability to meet liability insurance requirements. Establishes criminal penalties for launching private space objects without such a license. Directs the Secretary to establish requirements for liability insurance to be carried by any licensee. Permits the Administrator to suspend or revoke a license for failure to comply with applicable regulations. Excludes from this Act space objects launched by or on behalf of the United States Government. Establishes the Commercial Space Commission to study the direction of future Government involvement and regulation of private sector commercial activity in outer space. Directs the Commission to report to Congress within a specified time. Terminates the Commission 60 days after its final report.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1983
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase from $25,000 to $100,000 the allowable amount of the income tax tax deduction for eliminating architectural and transportation barriers for the handicapped and aged. Makes such tax deduction permanent.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1983
Semiconductor Chip Protection Act of 1983 - Extends copyright protection to mask works. Defines a mask work as a series of related images: (1) having the predetermined, three- dimensional pattern of metallic, insulating, or semiconductor material present or removed from the layers of a semiconductor chip product; and (2) in which the relation of the images to one another is that each image has the pattern of the surface of one form of the chip product. Excludes masks and mask works from the pictorial, graphic, or sculptural works categories. Sets forth the exclusive rights the owner of copyright holds, including the right to: (1) embody the mask work in a mask, a two-dimensional partially transparent and opaque sheet; (2) distribute a mask embodying the mask work; (3) reproduce such work on material intended to be part of the semiconductor chip product; and (4) manufacture and distribute semiconductor chip products incorporating such masks. Sets forth limitations on such exclusive rights, including compulsory licensing, as specified. Sets the copyright term for masks at ten years from first authorized distribution, use, or manufacture. Excludes an innocent purchaser in good faith of a semiconductor chip product from infringement liability. Permits the impoundment and seizure of masks made or used in violation of the copyright owner's exclusive rights.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1983
Urges the United States Postal Service to issue a postage stamp commemorating members of the uniformed services who have been prisoners of war or missing in action especially those missing as a result of the conflict in Southeast Asia.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1983
Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) Federal nutrition programs, including the food stamp, child nutrition, and elderly feeding programs, should be protected from budget cuts; (2) the WIC (supplemental food program for women, infants, and children) should continue to be fully funded; and (3) the Federal Government should maintain primary responsibility for nutrition programs.
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1983
American Conservation Corps Act of 1983 - Directs the Secretary of the Interior, in cooperation with the Secretary of Agriculture, to establish and administer a public lands conservation, rehabilitation, and improvement program called the American Conservation Corps. Requires the Secretary to provide assistance to program agencies (any Federal or State agency responsible for the management of public lands) to establish and operate residential and nonresidential conservation centers to implement program projects. Describes the types of projects which will receive program preference. Limits program projects to those on public lands or Indian lands, except where projects on nonpublic lands provide documented public benefits. Sets forth requirements for establishing conservation centers and eligibility criteria for enrollees in the program. Makes persons eligible for enrollment and employment in the program if they are: (1) unemployed; (2) between the ages of 16 and 25 years; and (3) citizens, lawful permanent residents, or lawfully admitted alien parolees or refugees. Provides that, in the selection of enrollees for the program, preference shall be given to economically, socially, physically, and educationally disadvantaged youth and youth residing in areas having substantial unemployment. Requires program agencies to provide services, facilities, supplies, and equipment for conservation centers as the Secretary deems necessary. Authorizes the Secretary to award grants to, or enter into agreements with, program agencies for the funding and operation of conservation centers. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1983 through 1989. Requires that such appropriations come from specified Treasury receipts. States that program enrollees shall not be deemed Federal employees, except for certain purposes. Directs the Secretary to establish pay rates and to coordinate the program with related Federal, State, local, and private activities. Directs the Secretary to submit a report to Congress, within one year of enactment of this Act, on the feasibility of allowing enrollees who have completed two years in the program an exemption from training and service under the Military Selective Service Act. Directs the Secretary to make arrangements with educational institutions to award academic credit to enrollees for competencies developed under this Act. Authorizes program agencies to make arrangements with such institutions for academic study by enrollees during nonworking hours. Requires program agencies to provide certification of skills acquired by program participants and to provide job guidance and placement information as necessary. Directs the Secretary to submit an annual report to the President and Congress detailing the activities carried out under this Act. Entitles to an appeal to the Merit Systems Protection Board any Federal employee displaced rightly or wrongly by activities under this Act. Grants similar appeal rights to the employees of any contract grantee similarly displaced.
![Official portrait of Rep. Schneider, Claudine [R-RI-2]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/s000136_200.jpg)