United States · United States Congress · 8 October 1991
Establishes the Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton, Pennsylvania to preserve the resources associated with steam-operated trains during the period of 1850-1950. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) provide a variety of steam train excursions within the boundaries of the Site and to destinations outside of it; and (2) enter into leases for the use of any excessive buildings within the Site. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 3 October 1991
Fresh Cut Flower Import Regulation Act of 1991 - Establishes the Fresh Cut Flower Import Regulation Trust Fund within the Treasury. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury (Secretary) to transfer from the Treasury amounts received as duties imposed on certain fresh cut flowers to the Trust Fund. Authorizes the Secretaries of Commerce and of Agriculture to requisition funds from the Trust Fund to defray administrative costs. Authorizes the Secretary to invest a portion of such Fund in interest-bearing U.S. bonds. Title I: Quantitative Limitation of Imports of Fresh Cut Flowers - Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to annually determine for each category of fresh cut flowers the domestic consumption in quantity of stems for a 12-month period and the shares of consumption accounted for by domestic shipments and by total imports. Prohibits the share of consumption to be supplied by imports from exceeding specified shares of expected consumption of fresh cut flowers. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to allocate the increase or decrease in the global import quota for such categories among supplying countries in proportion to their shares of domestic consumption. Title II: Reallocation of Unused Country Quotas - Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to reallocate the unused portion of the prior calendar quarter quotas to other supplying countries if a determination is made that any country has not filled its quota of a particular category of fresh cut flowers by 50 percent or more of its quota. Title III: Country of Origin Identification of Imported Fresh Cut Flowers - Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to require each imported fresh cut flower to conspicuously indicate the English name of the country of origin of such flower. Amends the Federal Trade Commission Act, as amended, to make it an unfair act or practice for anyone to sell such flowers without the English name of the country of origin. Title IV: Monitoring of the Prices of Imported Fresh Cut Flowers by the Secretary of Commerce; Self-Initiation by Him of Antidumping Duty Investigations of Imports Being Offered or Sold Below Their Fair Value - Requires the Secretary of Commerce to monitor the prices at which imported fresh cut flowers are sold in: (1) the United States; and (2) the principal export markets other than the United States in order to determine the fair value of such flowers. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to commence an antidumping duty investigation whenever it is determined that a specific category of fresh cut flowers from one or more supplying countries has been sold at less than their fair value by greater than de minimis margins.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1991
Individual Investment Account Act of 1991 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a deduction for amounts contributed to individual investment accounts, limited to $2,500. Allows tax-free distributions, limited to $15,000 for all taxable years, from such accounts for use in the purchase of a principal residence by a first-time homebuyer. Makes such accounts tax-exempt unless the individual engages in prohibited transactions. Adjusts dollar limitations under this Act for inflation. Allows such deduction in determining adjusted gross income. Excludes from gross income gain from the sale or exchange of property if, during the five-year period ending on the date of the sale or exchange, such property has been owned and used by the taxpayer as a principal residence for periods aggregating three years or more. Limits such exclusion to the amount paid to an individual investment account during the one-year period beginning on the date of the sale or exchange. Provides for adjusting the basis of a residence acquired through the use of an individual investment account.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1991
Designates 1992 as the Year of the Gulf of Mexico. Directs all Federal and State agencies which have responsibility for matters affecting the Gulf to work to increase public awareness regarding the immeasurable value of this resource and current conditions which threaten its aesthetic and economic value.
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1991
Extends nondiscriminatory treatment (most-favored-nation treatment) to the products of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should take prompt action to provide preferential tariff treatment to such products under the Generalized System of Preferences.
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise the definition of highly compensated employee for pension plan purposes to mean any employee who receives compensation for a year in excess of $75,000 (adjusted for inflation). Provides a uniform definition of compensation as wages and earned income. Allows an employer to treat as compensation any amount: (1) which is not includible in gross income under deferred compensation plans of State and local governments and tax-exempt organizations; or (2) which is not allowable as a deduction for retirement savings. Allows collectively-bargained (union) employees to be included in applying minimum coverage requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to direct the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to publish and update clearly defined arrival and departure routes leading to and from airports located within and in close proximity to terminal control areas and airport radar service areas for the optional use of pilots operating under visual flight rules.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Semiconductor Investment Act of 1991 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to classify the depreciable life for semiconductor manufacturing equipment as three-year property.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1991
Uniform Business Tax Act of 1991 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose a uniform nine percent tax on the taxable value of property and services produced and sold in the United States by a taxable business. Provides that the taxable value shall be equal to the net business receipts of the business. Declares that the minimum tax shall not be less than the sum of employer payroll taxes. Allows as a credit against the uniform business tax for any taxable year of an amount equal to the minimum uniform business tax credit for such year. (Provides a formula for determining such minimum tax credit.) Defines net business receipts as the excess of business receipts over business expenses. Defines business receipts as the aggregate amount received in connection with a business from: (1) the sale or rental of property located in the United States; (2) the performance of services in the United States; or (3) the sale or use of intangibles (such as copyrights, patents, franchise rights, and know-how) in the United States. Excludes receipts from exports and certain other receipts. Defines business expenses as any amount paid by the taxpayer with respect to a business of the taxpayer for the purchase or use of property or for the purchase of services. Specifies expenses that are not included as business expenses. Sets forth special rules for determining business receipts and expenses with respect to: (1) sales of property; (2) services performed both inside and outside the United States; (3) exchanges treated as sales; (4) intermediation services in the case of insurance activities; and (5) sale or lease payments received in more than one taxable period. Provides special rules for possessions corporations in determining net business receipts. Provides that the uniform business tax will not be imposed on tax-exempt organizations. Defines a taxable business as: (1) any C corporation (any corporation other than a small business corporation); and (2) any other taxpayer with business receipts in excess of $50,000. Sets forth administrative provisions concerning the time for filing returns and consolidated returns of an affiliated group of corporations. Allows a tax credit against the net uniform business tax paid or incurred by an eligible taxpayer (any person liable for such tax). Imposes a tax on importers of nine percent of the customs value of all imported property for consumption, use, or warehousing, except for items entered into the United States duty-free. Repeals the: (1) corporate income tax; and (2) corporate minimum tax. Makes the employment tax on wages and the employer railroad retirement tax on compensation inapplicable to employers subject to the uniform business tax.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1991
Critical Technologies Act of 1991 - Defines "critical technology" as the act of a domestic industry in producing without which machine tools necessary to support the national defense could not be produced. Recognizes that certain technologies are critical to the security and defense of the United States, and declares as the continuing policy of the Federal Government to use all reasonable and practical means to: (1) evaluate and reexamine governmental policies, decisions, and actions that inhibit the viability of domestic industries which use a critical technology; and (2) work to preserve and encourage such domestic industries. Requires each Federal agency to: (1) develop and implement methods that will ensure appropriate consideration of the potential effect of proposed actions, decisions, and activities of such agency on domestic industries using a critical technology; (2) include in every recommendation or report on a proposal for legislation or other Federal action affecting domestic industries using a critical technology a detailed statement specifying favorable and adverse effects on such industries resulting from such proposal and reasonable alternatives; and (3) assist the Critical Technology Commission (established under this Act). Outlines provisions concerning the preparation and availability of such detailed statement. Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to require the President to submit annually to the Congress a National Critical Technologies Report that includes specified summaries of the general economic conditions of domestic industries in the United States using a critical technology, future trends, and policy reviews. Establishes the Critical Technology Commission (Commission) as a joint commission among the Departments of Commerce, Defense, Labor, and Energy, with the Secretary of each such Department serving on the Commission. Outlines Commission duties, including: (1) the preparation of annual reports on domestic industries using a critical technology; (2) the gathering of information concerning current and future trends affecting such industries; (3) the review of Federal policies, programs, and activities with respect to such industries, as well as the development of new policies; and (4) the conducting of investigations and other activities relating to the health of such domestic industries and potential future Federal policies with regard to such industries. Outlines Commission powers. Provides that, upon application by a domestic producer that is part of a critical industry, or after initiation by the Secretaries of Commerce or Defense, the Commission shall immediately initiate an investigation to determine the effect on national security interests of: (1) imports of the article which is the subject of such application or motion; and (2) the presence within the United States of producers of such article, other than domestic producers. Outlines procedures for conducting such investigations. Requires the Commission, within 120 days after beginning such investigation, to report to the industry oversight committee (established under this Act) and to the President on its findings and to recommend a written plan of action. Authorizes the industry oversight committee to veto the implementation of such plan within 15 days of its receipt. Requires the President, if no veto is forthcoming, to implement the plan of action if the Commission finds that such article has impaired or threatens to impair the national security interests of the United States. Requires the President to notify the Congress of such implementation. Requires the President to take certain action when there has been a negotiation of an agreement which limits or restricts importation into the United States of an article which threatens national security, and such agreement is not carried out or is ineffective in eliminating the threat. Requires the Commission, in performing its functions, to consult with qualified persons representing each domestic industry using a critical technology through the creation of an independent industry oversight committee comprised of industry representatives. Requires such committee to meet annually to provide assistance to the Commission in completing its functions. Outlines floor procedures to be followed by the two Houses of Congress when a written plan of the Commission and the implementing bill for such plan is submitted by the President for consideration, including certain time limitations for taking specified action on the bill. Directs the Secretary of Defense, after consultation with the military departments, to submit to the Senate and House Armed Services Committees a report reviewing military operations in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm and setting forth: (1) the type and quantity of foreign-produced materials and components used in the major weapons systems of the United States; (2) a summary of such producers; (3) an evaluation of the dependence by the United States on such producers; and (4) a review of those military personnel involved in the maintenance of weapons and communications systems used in such Operations.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1991
Establishes a Joint Committee on the Organization of the Congress to: (1) make a full and complete study of the organization and operation of the Congress; and (2) recommend improvements in such organization and operation with a view toward strengthening its effectiveness, simplifying its operations, improving its relationships with other branches of the Government, and improving the orderly consideration of legislation. Requires a report to the Senate and the House of Representatives not later than the adjournment sine die of the 102d Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that an employer's treatment of employees, or employees in substantially similar positions, as being employees for certain periods and not being employees for other periods shall not be treated as indicative of any intentional disregard of the requirement to deduct and withhold employment taxes. Sets forth the circumstances under which employment tax liability is terminated for periods before December 31, 1994. Declares that an employer shall be treated as having a reasonable basis for not treating an employee as an employee for a period if such treatment was based on: (1) judicial precedent, published rulings, technical advice, or a letter ruling; (2) longstanding recognized practice of a significant segment of the industry; or (3) some other demonstrable manner. Prohibits a refund or credit of any overpayment of an employment tax resulting from the application of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 1991
Provides that a payment or allowance shall be treated as a military housing allowance under the Internal Revenue Code for purposes of the deductibility of mortgage interest and real property taxes, if such payment was provided: (1) to a Federal employee stationed outside the continental United States; and (2) for expenses similar to the expenses for which any military housing allowance is provided.
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1991
Health Care Liability Reform and Quality of Care Improvement Act of 1991 - Title I: Findings and Purpose - Sets forth: (1) findings regarding this Act and (2) the purpose of this Act. Title II: Health Care Liability Reforms - Requires, in order to be eligible to participate in the incentive program provided for in this title, that States have in effect the health care liability reforms set forth in this title. Requires, in any health care liability action, the liability of each defendant for non-economic damages to be several and not joint, with each defendant liable only for the proportion of that defendant's fault and a separate judgment against that defendant in that amount. Prohibits awarding non-economic damages over a certain dollar amount in any health care liability action, subject to waiver. Reduces the total damages received by a plaintiff by the amount of any collateral source benefits. Allows: (1) future economic damage awards to be paid periodically based on when the damages are likely to occur or at the time the damages accrue; and (2) in certain circumstances, the court to require the health care provider to purchase an annuity or fund a reversionary trust to make such periodic payments. Prohibits reopening a judgment awarding periodic payments to contest, amend, or modify the schedule or amount in the absence of fraud or any ground permitting relief after entry of a final judgment. Declares it U.S. policy to encourage alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Requires a State to establish at least one ADR mechanism. Requires a State to: (1) cooperate with Federal research efforts regarding patient outcomes, clinical effectiveness, and clinical practice guidelines; (2) collect, analyze, and supply the Secretary of Health and Human Services with information regarding the performance of State medical boards; and (3) impose continuing education requirements on a disciplined physician. Allows alternatives to these requirements regarding medical boards and continuing education if the Secretary finds the alternatives at least as effective in reducing the incidence of negligence as compliance with the requirements. Allows States three years from the adoption of this Act to enact, adopt, or otherwise comply with the requirements of this title. Requires withholding two percent of payments to States computed under specified provisions of title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act and one percent of payments to hospitals computed under specified provisions of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act and redistribution of the withheld funds to those States and hospitals which have complied with the provisions of this title. Allows waiver of the requirements of this title for any experimental, pilot, or demonstration project which is likely to assist in promoting the objectives of this Act. Title III: Federal Implementation of Health Care Liability Reforms - Amends Federal law to prohibit, in a health care liability action, finding the United States jointly and severally liable for non-economic damages. Allows liability only for those non-economic damages directly attributable to its pro rata share of fault. Reduces damages paid by the United States by the amount of any collateral source benefits. Prohibits awarding non-economic damages, in an action against the United States, over a certain dollar amount. Requires, at the request of the United States when future economic damages are awarded in excess of a specified amount, an order that such damages be paid by periodic payments based on when the damages are likely to occur. Allows the United States, in such cases, to pay the judgment periodically, purchase an annuity, or fund a reversionary trust. Prohibits reopening the judgment to contest, amend, or modify the schedule or amount in the absence of fraud or any ground permitting relief after entry of a final judgment. Title IV: Construction of Provisions - Provides for construction of this Act, severability, and the effective date of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1991
White Clay Creek Study Act - Amends the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to designate the White Clay Creek in Delaware and Pennsylvania for potential addition to the Wild and Scenic Rivers System. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to prepare a management plan for the Creek.
United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1991
St. Croix, Virgin Islands Historical Park and Ecological Preserve Act of 1991 - Establishes the St. Croix, Virgin Islands Historical Park and Ecological Preserve. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire lands within the park. Prohibits the acquisition of lands containing dwellings within the park boundary as of July 1, 1991, without the consent of the owner. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into cooperative agreements with the Virgin Islands or political subdivisions for the management of the park. Requires the Secretary to submit a general management plan for the park to the House Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs and the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Directs the Secretary, for a ten-year period, to provide funds for employees of the Government of the Virgin Islands engaged in the management of the park and to implement a program under which Virgin Islands citizens may be trained in phases of park operations and management. Establishes the St. Croix, Virgin Islands Historical Park and Ecological Preserve Commission. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1991
Congressional Budget Office Neutrality Act of 1991 - Amends the Congressional Budget Act to provide that appointment of the Director of the Congressional Budget Office be made after consideration of recommendations of the chairmen and ranking minority members of the House and Senate Budget Committees. (Current law specifies only the recommendations of such Committees). Requires the Director to carry out duties in an objective and nonpartisan manner. Prohibits the Office from altering information compiled at the request of a Member or committee of the Congress, unless such Member or Committee agrees to the change. Requires the Director to notify the House Committee on Standards of Official Conduct or the Senate Select Committee on Ethics of any attempt by any Member or congressional employee to unduly influence the Office with respect to the contents of its response to any request for information or any report. Requires cost analysis estimates of congressional legislation to include direct and indirect costs. Establishes a Congressional Budget Office Board to: (1) provide general oversight of Office operations; (2) approve in advance the undertaking of any studies and reports in addition to those required by law; and (3) provide general guidance to the Director in the formulation and implementation of procedures and policies. Directs the Office to establish an Economic Advisory Council to: (1) review and make recommendations to the Board on Office activities; (2) evaluate the quality and objectivity of Office research and reports; and (3) undertake additional tasks as the Board may direct. Subjects the appointment of the Director to approval by concurrent resolution of the Senate and of the House of Representatives.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 1991
Constitutional Amendment - Requires the Congress and the President, prior to each fiscal year, to agree on an estimate of total receipts (except those derived from borrowing) for that fiscal year by enactment of a law devoted solely to that subject. Prohibits outlays for that year (except those for repayment of debt principal) from exceeding this amount unless the Congress, by a three-fifths roll call vote of each House, authorizes a specific excess of outlays over receipts. Requires a three-fifths roll call vote of each House to increase the public debt. Directs the President to submit a balanced budget to the Congress. Requires the approval of a majority of the total membership of each House by roll call vote before any bill to increase revenue may become law. Waives these provisions when a declaration of war is in effect. Makes this article effective beginning with FY 1995 or with the second fiscal year after its ratification, whichever is later.
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1991
Shipbuilding and Repair Industry Free Trade Act of 1991 - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to annually determine and publish the net shipbuilding and repair subsidy provided, directly and indirectly, to each major shipbuilding and repair company in foreign countries meeting certain requirements. Requires the information submitted to the Secretary in connection with the determinations to be treated as proprietary if it meets certain requirements of the Tariff Act of 1930. Requires each company to repay to its government the total value of the aggregate subsidy provided, plus interest. Directs the Secretary to: (1) require certification from both the company and the foreign government that the payments have occurred; and (2) if requested, verify the repayment. Directs the Secretary, if a company has not complied, to direct the Commandant of the Coast Guard to collect an annual assessment on each vessel constructed or repaired by the company. Sets the amount of the assessment at the amount of the net subsidy, adjusted by partial repayments and increased by any previous unpaid assessment. Prohibits a vessel from entering a U.S. port until the assessment is paid in full. Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to provide for the judicial review of subsidy assessment determinations by the U.S. Court of International Trade.
United States · United States Congress · 19 June 1991
Older Women's Breast Cancer Prevention Act of 1991 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to: (1) repeal the limit on payment amounts for screening mammography under part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of the Medicare program; and (2) permit payment under such part to the physician who supervises such procedure but does not interpret its results.
United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1991
Medicare Preventive Benefits Act of 1991 - Amends part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide for coverage of fecal-occult blood tests (FOBTs) and screening flexible sigmoidoscopies for the early detection of colorectal cancer. Covers FOBTs on an annual basis for individuals aged 50 or over. Covers screening sigmoidoscopies provided every five years for individuals aged 50 or over. Provides payment for FOBTs under the laboratory fee schedule, subject to a five dollar limit in 1992. Provides payment for screening sigmoidoscopies under the relative value scale in 1992. Permits the Secretary to modify the frequency criteria after 1994. Provides for Medicare coverage of annual influenza vaccinations and for tetanus-diptheria vaccinations administered every ten years. Provides for Medicare coverage up to age seven according to a frequency schedule to be established by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) in consultation with appropriate entities. Provides for Medicare coverage of annual screening mammography for the early detection of breast cancer for women over age 64. (Currently, such women are covered for such screening performed every other year.) Requires HHS demonstration projects for the coverage of additional specified preventive care services and reports to specified congressional committees on such projects. Authorizes appropriations. Authorizes an Office of Technology Assessment study and report to the Congress on the development of a process evaluating possible Medicare coverage of other preventive care services.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1991
Benjamin Franklin Memorial Fire Service Bill of Rights Act - Title I: Minting of Benjamin Franklin National Memorial Commemorative Coin - Benjamin Franklin National Memorial Commemorative Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to issue: (1) five dollar gold coins emblematic of Benjamin Franklin's contributions to the advancement of science; (2) one dollar silver coins emblematic of Benjamin Franklin's contributions to the American Fire Service. Sets forth sale and issuance guidelines, including a general waiver of procurement regulations and surcharge distributions. Title II: Fire Service Bill of Rights - Fire Service Bill of Rights Act - Amends the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974 to set forth a fire service bill of rights, including the right of responding fire services to: (1) know the kind of danger presented by hazardous materials they face in emergency responses; and (2) be fully informed of infectious diseases their members face during the course of life safety activities. Declares that the bill of rights does not create any private right of action.
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 1991
Critical Technologies Act of 1991 - Defines "critical technology" as the act of a domestic industry in producing without which machine tools necessary to support the national defense could not be produced. Recognizes that certain technologies are critical to the security and defense of the United States, and declares as the continuing policy of the Federal Government to use all reasonable and practical means to: (1) evaluate and reexamine governmental policies, decisions, and actions that inhibit the viability of domestic industries which use a critical technology; and (2) work to preserve and encourage such domestic industries. Requires each Federal agency to: (1) develop and implement methods that will ensure appropriate consideration of the potential effect of proposed actions, decisions, and activities of such agency on domestic industries using a critical technology; (2) include in every recommendation or report on a proposal for legislation or other Federal action affecting domestic industries using a critical technology a detailed statement specifying favorable and adverse effects on such industries resulting from such proposal and reasonable alternatives; and (3) assist the Critical Technology Commission (established under this Act). Outlines provisions concerning the preparation and availability of such statement. Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to require the President to submit annually to the Congress a National Critical Technologies Report that includes specified summaries of the general economic conditions of domestic industries in the United States using a critical technology, future trends, and policy reviews. Establishes the Critical Technology Commission (Commission) as a joint commission among the Departments of Commerce, Defense, Labor, and Energy, with the Secretary of each such Department serving on the Commission. Outlines Commission duties, including: (1) the preparation of annual reports on domestic industries using a critical technology; (2) the gathering of information concerning current and future trends affecting such industries; (3) the review of Federal policies, programs, and activities with respect to such industries, as well as the development of new policies; and (4) the conducting of investigations and other activities relating to the health of such domestic industries and potential future Federal policies with regard to such industries. Outlines Commission powers. Provides that, upon application by a domestic producer that is part of a critical industry, or after initiation by the Secretaries of Commerce or Defense, the Commission shall immediately initiate an investigation to determine the effect on national security interests of: (1) imports of the article which is the subject of such application or motion; and (2) the presence within the United States of producers of such article, other than domestic producers. Outlines procedures for conducting such investigations. Requires the Commission, within 120 days after beginning such investigation, to report to the industry oversight committee (established under this Act) and to the President on its findings and to recommend a written plan of action. Authorizes the industry oversight committee to veto the implementation of such plan within 15 days of its receipt. Requires the President, if no veto is forthcoming, to implement the plan of action if the Commission finds that such article has impaired or threatens to impair the national security interests of the United States. Requires the President to notify the Congress of such implementation. Requires the President to take certain action when there has been a negotiation of an agreement which limits or restricts importation into the United States of an article which threatens national security, and such agreement is not carried out or is ineffective in eliminating the threat. Requires the Commission, in performing its functions, to consult with qualified persons representing each domestic industry using a critical technology through the creation of an independent industry oversight committee, comprised of industry representatives. Requires such committee to meet annually to provide assistance to the Commission in completing its functions. Outlines floor procedures to be followed by the two Houses of Congress when a written plan of the Commmission and the implementing bill for such plan is submitted by the President for consideration, including certain time limitations for taking specified action on the bill.
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1991
Wetlands Stewardship Act of 1991 - Title I: Wetlands Permitting - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to provide that it is U.S. policy to: (1) achieve no overall net loss of the nation's wetland base; and (2) restore and create wetlands to increase the quality and quantity of the nation's wetlands resource base. Adds to the list of activities in navigable waters that the Secretary of the Army (Secretary) is authorized to issue permits for: (1) dredging, excavation, channelization, draining, or flooding of wetlands; and (2) activities that will impair the flow, reach, or circulation of navigable waters. Permits the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to prohibit or restrict any discharge into or alteration of navigable waters resulting from permitted activities. Requires the Administrator and the Secretary to establish procedures under which permit applicants and other affected persons may appeal prohibitions or restrictions. Applies provisions regarding the issuance of general permits on a State, regional, or nationwide basis to activities conducted in navigable waters authorized by this Act. Permits the Secretary to issue general permits jointly with a State that has a wetlands conservation plan for categories of activities in navigable waters or categories of navigable waters if such activities will have minimal adverse effects on the environment. Adds to the list of activities exempt from regulation under this Act: (1) activities conducted in altered or degraded nontidal wetlands in private ownership in accordance with an agreement between the landowner and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the Soil Conservation Service that provides for the restoration of wetlands values and functions; (2) silviculture activities conducted in accordance with best management practices approved by the State in which such activities are conducted; (3) aquaculture activities conducted before this Act's enactment date; and (4) aggregate or clay mining activities, subject to certain conditions. Authorizes the Secretary to provide for expedited permitting in a State or federally declared drought emergency. Requires the Secretary, the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of the Interior, and the Administrator to: (1) jointly conduct a rulemaking proceeding to review and revise, as necessary, the existing technical method for the delineation of wetlands; and (2) report to the Congress on the estimated acreage of wetlands in each region of the United States to be identified as wetlands pursuant to such rule. Directs the Secretary, the Secretary of the Interior, and the Administrator to jointly develop methods for the assessment of wetlands functions and values. Requires the Secretary to report biennially to the Congress on the effects on wetlands of activities conducted under permits. Revises administrative provisions regarding State permit programs for activities in navigable waters. Requires States with approved permit programs to report biannually to the Administrator. Sets forth procedures concerning the withdrawal of program approval. Authorizes the Administrator to audit programs to ensure that States are achieving the policy set forth in this Act. Provides that permits shall require measures to avoid adverse effects on navigable waters caused by permitted activities and to minimize effects that cannot be avoided. Requires permittees to: (1) conduct mitigation and compensate for adverse effects for which measures are not practicable by restoring degraded wetlands or creating new wetlands; (2) redeem an appropriate number of credits issued under the wetlands mitigation banking system established under this Act; or (3) perform a combination of such requirements. Authorizes the Administrator, upon appeal by an applicant for a permit for construction of a building associated with a residence or for minor expansions or repairs that adversely affect less than three acres of wetlands, to issue a permit or modify mitigation requirements if the applicant demonstrates that: (1) the applicant has owned the property on which the activity requiring a permit will occur for three or more consecutive years; and (2) the denial of the permit or a failure to reduce the mitigation required would cause significant financial hardship. Permits the Secretary to require a payment as mitigation for impacts to navigable waters resulting from an activity conducted under a general permit. Directs the Secretary, the Administrator, and the Secretary of the Interior to jointly issue rules establishing a wetlands mitigation banking system. Requires such system to provide for the issuance of credits by the Secretary or a State with an approved permit program or wetlands conservation plan to any person who: (1) creates wetlands; (2) restores or enhances degraded wetlands; or (3) creates, restores, or enhances uplands that serve as buffer zones to protect or enhance wetlands. Provides for the establishment of: (1) requirements for the issuance and redemption of credits under the system; (2) standards for determining the number of credits to be issued; and (3) requirements to ensure the security of the long-term ownership interests of wetlands and uplands on which projects are conducted for credits and to protect the wetlands values of such wetlands and uplands. Authorizes the transfer of credits under the system. Exempts from this title's requirements: (1) activities for which a significant alteration of land or navigable waters is commenced before this Act's enactment date; or (2) activities approved at specific sites before May 21, 1991. Title II: Wetlands Planning and Preservation - Authorizes the Administrator, jointly with a State that has made progress in completing a wetlands conservation plan, to conduct advanced planning by identifying navigable waters in the State that are suitable or unsuitable for activities for which permits are issued under this Act. Permits the Administrator to authorize certain local governments and areawide planning agencies designated under the Demonstration Cities and Metropolitan Development Act of 1966 to identify such waters, subject to certain requirements. Requires the Administrator to make publicly available maps depicting such waters which indicate: (1) waters suitable and unsuitable for permitted activities; and (2) the wetlands functions of such waters. Directs the Administrator to make grants to States or to such local governments and agencies for identifying and describing navigable waters. Bases eligibility for such grants on the value and threat of degradation, destruction, or loss of wetlands. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) identify, map, and digitize wetlands that should be given priority because of their high value, the threat of their loss, destruction, or degradation or lack of existing or adequate maps; and (2) identify all areas under consideration for advanced planning. Authorizes State Governors to submit State wetlands conservation plans to the Administrator for approval. Sets forth plan requirements and approval procedures. Authorizes the Administrator, the Secretary, or the Secretary of the Interior, upon the request of a State, to provide technical assistance for plan development. Requires the Administrator, based on need, to provide financial assistance to States for the development and implementation of such plans. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish a program to promote the conservation and wise stewardship of wetlands and riparian lands on private property. Requires the program to provide assistance to private landowners for: (1) conserving wetlands and riparian lands; (2) enhancing wildlife and fisheries habitat; and (3) developing economic uses of wetlands which will not degrade wetlands. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to enter into agreements with respect to the conservation of such lands. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to present annual Wetlands for Wildlife Awards to individuals who have made a substantial contribution to the conservation and wise stewardship of wetlands and riparian lands.
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 1991
Common Sense Budget Act of 1991 - Amends Federal law to require both the President and the Congress to draft a budget based on estimates of current fiscal year spending, proposing increases or decreases based on this level (rather than on an estimated baseline). Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to require the Congressional Budget Office to use such a current fiscal year baseline in its report to the congressional budget committees, projecting growth for entitlement and discretionary spending based on current fiscal year spending.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1991
Open Space Preservation Act of 1991 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code with respect to the estate tax to exclude from the gross estate the value of land subject to a qualified conservation easement. Defers the reduction in estate tax rates from 1993 until 1998.
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 1991
Designates September 20, 1991, as National POW/MIA recognition Day. Requires the display of the National League of Families POW/MIA flag: (1) at all national cemeteries and the National Vietnam Veterans Memorial on May 30, 1991 (Memorial Day), September 20, 1991 (National POW/MIA Recognition Day), and November 11, 1991 (Veteran's Day); and (2) on, or on the grounds of, the White House, and the buildings containing the primary offices of the Secretaries of State, Defense, and Veterans Affairs, and the Director of the Selective Service Commission on September 20, 1991 (National POW/MIA Recognition Day).
United States · United States Congress · 23 April 1991
Nuclear Decommissioning Reserve Fund Act of 1991 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) decrease the rate of the tax imposed on the income of any Nuclear Decommissioning Reserve Fund; and (2) remove restrictions on permitted investments of Fund monies.
United States · United States Congress · 23 April 1991
Designates May 22, 1991, as National Desert Storm Reservists Day to commemorate the accomplishments of the men and women of the reserve components of the U.S. Armed Forces who proudly served the United States during Operation Desert Storm.
United States · United States Congress · 11 April 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to disallow a deduction for certain costs incurred in connection with any oil discharge or hazardous substance release. Provides an exception to such rule for any taxpayer who has a complete liability defense or qualifies for a liability limitation with respect to such discharge or release. Provides a limitation on the use of the net operating loss deduction to offset deductions disallowed by this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1991
861-R&D Permanent Resolution Act of 1991 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make permanent the rules on the allocation of research and experimental expenditures. (Currently, such rules expire on August 1, 1991.)
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1991
Authorizes the Thomas Paine National Historical Association U.S.A. Memorial Foundation to construct in the District of Columbia or its environs an appropriate monument honoring the American patriot, Thomas Paine. Prohibits the use of Federal funds for the establishment of the memorial.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1991
Directs the American Battle Monuments Commission to establish a memorial on Federal land in the District of Columbia or its environs to honor World War II veterans and to commemorate U.S. participation in that conflict. Directs the Commission to plan, design, construct, and oversee the operation of the memorial. Specifies that such design shall provide for accessibility by, and accommodations for, the physically handicapped. Establishes the World War II Memorial Advisory Board to: (1) promote the establishment of the memorial and encourage the donation of private funds for construction and maintenance; (2) assist and cooperate with the Commission in the selection of the site and design for the memorial; and (3) transmit annual reports on its activities to the Congress. Authorizes the Commission to solicit private contributions for such memorial. Establishes a fund in the Treasury which shall be made available to the Commission to carry out this Act. Authorizes Federal funding, in addition to such private funds, for: (1) site preparation, design, planning, and associated administrative costs for establishment of the memorial; and (2) construction, maintenance, and operation of the memorial. Authorizes assistance from specified Federal departments and agencies, including the Library of Congress. Authorizes the transfer of Federal property to the Commission. Authorizes the Commission to purchase suitable property within the District of Columbia for the establishment of such memorial. Urges the Government to encourage 50th anniversary commemorations of the U.S. role in World War II. Urges the Smithsonian Institution and other Federal museums to develop commemorative exhibitions to be shared with academic institutions.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1991
World War II 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act - Expresses the sense of the Congress that the United States should recognize the 50th anniversary of World War II by minting and issuing commemorative coins. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to issue and mint such coins in five dollar, one dollar, and half dollar denominations. Mandates that surcharges received from the sale of such coins be deposited in a coinage profit fund and allocated, upon separate congressional authorization, to the American Battle Monuments Commission to establish a World War II memorial. Directs the Secretary to report semiannually to the Congress regarding implementation of this Act.
![Official portrait of Rep. Schulze, Richard T. [R-PA-5]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/s000146_200.jpg)