United States · United States Congress · 20 February 1980
Emergency Unemployment Compensation Act of 1980 - Authorizes States with approved unemployment compensation laws with extended compensation provisions to enter into and participate in (and to terminate upon 30 days' written notice) agreements with the Secretary of Labor that State agencies will make emergency compensation payments. Declares eligible for such payments individuals who have exhausted all rights to regular or extended State compensation, who have no rights to State or Federal compensation, and who are not receiving Canadian compensation for any week of unemployment which begins in an emergency benefit period and the individual's eligibility period or begins in an individual's additional eligibility period. Prohibits such payments for any week of unemployment which begins more than two years after the end of the benefit year for which the individual exhausted regular compensation rights. Declares that an emergency benefit period shall: (1) begin with the third week after a week for which there is a State "emergency on" indicator (when the rate of insured unemployment in such State for such week and the immediately preceding 12 weeks equaled or exceeded five percent); and (2) end with the third week after the first week for which there is a State "emergency off" indicator (when the rate of insured unemployment in such State for such week and the immediately preceding 12 weeks is less than five percent). Requires that, in the case of any State, no emergency benefit period shall last for a period of less than 13 consecutive weeks. Requires that the amount of emergency compensation payable to any individual for any week of total unemployment be equal to the regular compensation payable during the benefit year under State law. Requires that, under such agreements, States establish an emergency compensation account for each eligible applicant, in an amount equal to the lesser of 50 percent of the total amount of regular compensation payable to such applicant's most recent benefit year or 13 times the average weekly benefit amount for such year. Requires that each State which has entered into such agreement be paid an amount equal to 100 percent of the emergency compensation paid to individuals by the State pursuant to such agreement. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to make such payments to each State in sums certified by the Secretary of Labor. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act. Provides penalties for individuals involved in misrepresentation with regard to such emergency payments. Authorizes States to require individuals to repay amounts of emergency compensation to which they were not entitled, and to waive such repayments in cases where the individual was without fault and where repayment would be contrary to equity and good conscience. Authorizes States to deduct such amounts to be repaid from various types of unemployment compensation payable to such individual and administered by State agencies. Limits any single deduction to no more than 50 percent of the weekly benefit amount from which such deduction is made. Requires notice and opportunity for a fair hearing for an individual, and an appropriate review, before such deductions are made.
United States · United States Congress · 13 February 1980
National Heritage Policy Act of 1979 - Title I - Declares the findings of Congress concerning the identification and protection of resources significant to the national heritage. Title II: National Heritage Program - Requires the Secretary of the Interior to establish a national heritage program and an historic preservation program. Directs the Secretary to establish and administer a National Register of Natural Areas which shall include resources of national, state and local significance. Declares that items of national significance shall be designated as "National Natural Landmarks" and such designations shall only apply to an area which clearly meets the standards for national significance as established by this Act. Requires the Secretary to expand and administer the National Register of Historic Places which shall include resources of national, state, and local significance. Requires the Secretary, within one year of the effective date of this Act, to develop or expand regulations or guidelines, as appropriate, for: (1) documentation of significant information concerning such resources; (2) eligibility criteria for inclusion in the Natural or Historic Register; and (3) nominations to the Natural or Historic Register by the State natural heritage officer of the State historic preservation officer as established by this Act. Requires the Secretary to establish revised criteria for the designation of nationally significant areas and places on the Registers. Requires the Secretary, within 18 months after the effective date of this Act, to develop regulations and guidelines for State natural heritage programs and State historic preservation programs, and to request the Governor of each participating State to designate a State natural heritage officer and historic preservation officer. Declares that there may be one person for both such positions. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) develop a process for the voluntary involvement of the public in the conservation and preservation of natural and historic resources; (2) extend honorific Federal recognition of exceptional efforts by local governments and the private sector in the identification and protection of significant heritage resources; (3) develop and provide technical and nontechnical information and assistance on all aspects of natural and historic heritage conservation; and (4) study, in cooperation with other agencies and private and public organizations, the feasibility and necessity of establishing or developing other protective measures at the Federal, State, and local level for natural areas and historic places. Directs each Federal agency, with the advice of the Secretary and in cooperation with the State historic preservation officer, to locate and nominate to the Historic Register, historic resources located on lands which it owns or administers. Specifies measures to be taken by Federal agencies to provide for the maintenance, preservation, rehabilitation, or restoration of federally owned historic resources. Requires the head of any Federal agency having direct or indirect jurisdiction over a proposed Federal or federally assisted undertaking in any State or having authority to license any such undertaking, prior to the approval of the expenditure of any Federal funds or the issuance of any license, to take into account the effect of the undertaking on any area included in or eligible for inclusion in the Natural Register. Specifies that, prior to the approval of any Federal undertaking which may adversely affect any natural or historic landmark, the head of the Federal agency involved shall determine that no feasible alternative to such undertaking exists. Requires the Council on Heritage Conservation, with the concurrence of the Secretary, to promulgate regulations or guidelines for the exemption of Federal undertakings from requirements of this Act. Amends the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to provide financial assistance to States for the conservation of natural areas. Includes networks, cultural landscapes, and neighborhoods significant in American history, architecture, archaeology, or culture, in the National Register. Amends the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 to authorize appropriations for the Historic Preservation Fund through fiscal year 1983. Title III: Council on Heritage Conservation - Renames the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation the Council on Heritage Conservation. Directs the Council to: (1) review Federal policies and programs affecting historic places natural areas; and (2) inform and educate interested Federal agencies, State and local governments, Indian tribes, other nations, and international organizations and private groups and individuals as to the authorized activities of the Council. Authorizes appropriations for the assessment for United States membership in the International Centre for Study of Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property for fiscal years 1979 and 1980. Stipulates that no appropriation may be authorized and no payment made to the Centre in excess of 25 percent of the total annual assessment of such organization. Title IV: Administrative Provisions - Permits the Secretary of the Interior to accept donations and bequests of money and personal property for the purposes of this Act. Allows the head of each Federal agency, after consultation with the Secretary, to withhold from public disclosure, information which might reveal the specific location of sites, objects, buildings, structures, terrestrial communities, aquatic communities, geologic features, or landforms which are eligible for or included in the Natural Register or the Historic Register, whenever it is determined that the disclosure of such information would create a risk of harm to such locations.
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1980
Requests the U.S. Olympic Committee to propose to the International Olympic Committee that all nations join in funding a facility in Greece to serve as the permanent site of the summer Olympic games.
United States · United States Congress · 6 February 1980
Amends the highway safety program to require State programs to provide for a program to assure the installation and use of road speed governors on trucks using public roads in such State. Defines the term "road speed governor" to mean any device which is designed to limit the maximum speed of a truck to 55 miles per hour. Requires the installation of such a device on all trucks manufactured after model year 1981. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to require that each truck licensed by any State to be operated on a public road constructed or maintained with Federal funds have a road speed governor installed by January 1, 1982. Prohibits the disconnection or the rendering inoperative of such device. Directs the Secretary to establish exemptions from such requirements where compliance would not be practicable. Directs the Secretary to establish an inspection and compliance monitoring program to be coordinated with other Federal and State laws. Applies the information and certification requirements applicable to bumper standards for passenger automobiles to road speed governor standards for trucks. Establishes a civil penalty for the noninstallation of or tampering with a road speed governor. Directs the President to require that all trucks used by any Executive agency, directly or indirectly, be equipped with a speed governor after fiscal year 1981. Directs the Secretary to prescribe minimum performance standards for road speed governors.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1980
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980 - Establishes, within the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the Office of Federal Information Policy (OFIP) to provide overall direction for the development and implementation of Federal information policies which include guidelines concerning: (1) the reduction of the Government paperwork burden on the public; (2) records management activities; and (3) the privacy of records pertaining to individuals. Requires the Director of OMB to appoint an Administrator of OFIP. Sets forth functions of the Director with respect to Federal information collection and management in the following categories: (1) general information policy functions; (2) information collection request clearance and other paperwork functions; (3) statistical policy and coordination functions; (4) records management functions; (5) privacy of information functions; and (6) automatic data processing and telecommunications functions. Requires the Director to ensure that agencies: (1) provide a substantial opportunity for the public to comment on the means of collecting information with regard to a proposed rule; and (2) assess alternative methods of attaining the statutory goals of such a rule. Requires the Director, within one year after enactment of this Act: (1) to establish requirements and assign responsibility for agency and Government-wide audits of all major information systems; (2) to establish the Federal Information Locator System; (3) to develop a schedule for eliminating any duplication of information collection requests by the Government; and (4) in consultation with the Administrator of General Services, to develop a five-year plan for meeting the automatic data processing and telecommunication needs of the Government. Directs the Director, within two years after this Act is enacted: (1) to establish a system for integrating the various information management practices; (2) to develop a program to enforce Federal information processing standards and to revitalize the standards development program; (3) to complete action on recommendations of the Commission on Federal Paperwork; and (4) to submit to the President and Congress legislative proposals to remove inconsistencies in laws involving privacy, confidentiality and disclosure of information. Requires each agency: (1) to carry out its information management activities in an economical manner; (2) to inventory its major information systems and review, periodically, its management activities; (3) to ensure that its systems do not overlap each other or duplicate systems of other agencies; (4) to develop procedures for assessing the paperwork burden of its collection activities; and (5) assign an official to be responsible for acquisitions of automatic data processing equipment and services. Requires an agency, before collecting any information, to: (1) eliminate reporting requirements which seek information which is available through another Government source; (2) minimize the compliance burden on respondents; (3) plan the tabulation of the information in a manner which maximizes its usefulness to other agencies; and (4) obtain the Director's approval of such collection. Requires the Director to approve or disapprove any collection request within 60 days of receiving it. Allows the Director, when considering a request, to provide an opportunity for the agency or other interested persons to submit oral or written statements. Authorizes the Director: (1) to designate a single collection agency for two or more agencies; and (2) to direct the disclosure of confidential information from one agency to another under specified conditions. Establishes, within OFIP, a Federal Information Locator System composed of a dictionary of information resources, a data element dictionary, and an information referral service. States that the System shall serve as the authoritative register of all information requests. Requires the Director: (1) to design an index for the System; (2) to require each agency head to submit for inclusion in the System a data profile of each information request of that agency; (3) to compare proposed information requests with existing requests through the System; and (4) to ensure that no actual data, excluding descriptive data which is necessary to locate information or identify duplicative data, is included in the System. Declares that no person shall be subject to any penalty for failing to provide information to an agency if such agency requested such information after December 31, 1981, in violation of procedures under this Act. Requires the Director: (1) to review the information management activities of each agency at least once every three years; (2) to report the findings to the agency and specified committees of Congress; (3) to keep Congress fully informed of major activities under this Act; and (4) to submit to the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House an annual report on such activities. Specifies the contents of such report. Declares that an agency's authority under any other law to prescribe rules or forms for Federal information activities shall be subject to the Director's authority under this Act. Grants the Comptroller General access to all records of OFIP. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act. Requires the Administrator of General Services: (1) to include in an annual report to Congress and the Director estimates of the lost benefits or savings resulting from the failure of agencies to implement the Administrator's recommendations; and (2) to assist the Administrator of OFIP in conducting studies and developing standards relating to records retention requirements of Federal agencies. Requires the President and the Director of OMB to delegate specified Federal information functions to the Administrator.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1980
Provides that Government life insurance shall be paid in accordance with any election of the insured. Stipulates that if at the time of death no such election has been made, the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs shall notify the beneficiary who shall elect whether to receive payment in a lump sum or in installments. Directs the Administrator to notify all insured individuals have not made such election concerning the effect of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1980
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow individual taxpayers a refundable income tax credit equal to 50 percent of the amount of energy saved during the taxable year (based on the amount of energy expenditures for 1978) with respect to the principal residence of the taxpayer. Terminates the authorization for such credit for taxable years beginning after December 31, 1985.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1980
Establishes a Commission on More Effective Government to study and recommend ways of promoting economy, efficiency, and improved service within the Federal Government. Directs the Commission to recommend methods to improve the relationship between Federal, State, and local governments. Provides for the appointment of members of the Commission by the President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the President pro tempore of the Senate. Sets forth provisions governing the organization and compensation of the Commission and its staff. Empowers the Commission to establish advisory councils and committees as it deems appropriate without regard to the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. Sets forth the powers of the Commission enabling it to gather information free from subsequent review or comment by any Federal agency. Directs the Commission to submit its final report to the Congress ten days after the Ninety-eighth Congress convenes. Terminates the Commission 90 days after such date. Authorizes the appropriation of funds necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1980
Authorizes the President to present, on behalf of the Congress, a gold medal of appropriate design to Ambassador Kenneth Taylor in recognition of his efforts to secure the return of six American Embassy officials in Tehran. Authorizes and directs the Secretary of the Treasury to cause to be struck such gold medal with suitable emblems, devices, and inscriptions.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1980
Vietnam Era Veterans Agent Orange Act - Establishes a presumption of service-connected disability for certain diseases arising in Vietnam-era veterans (and for birth defects in their children) exposed to agent orange.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1980
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that athletic games should be held in the United States for U.S. and foreign athletes, if the United States does not participate in the 1980 summer Olympic games.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1980
Fusion Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1980 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish research, development, and demonstration programs involving magnetic fusion energy systems to: (1) construct and operate a fusion engineering test facility by 1986; (2) construct and operate a magnetic fusion demonstration facility before the end of this century; (3) maintain and expand the base programs for fusion energy research and the development and testing of appropriate alternative confinement technologies; (4) maintain a strong research and development program in advanced fusion fuels; and (5) ensure an uninterrupted source of scientific and engineering talent from institutions of higher learning to support such effort. Requires such programs to include a study of the potential of using fusion energy for the production of synthetic fuels and the electrification of ground transportation systems. Directs the Secretary to disseminate information promoting the practical uses of fusion energy.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1980
Declares that the U.S. Olympic Committee and athletes ought not to participate in any international sports competition held in the Soviet Union, including the 1980 summer Olympics, unless Soviet troops are withdrawn from Afghanistan by February 20, 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1979
Used Machinery Investment Credit Adjustment Act of 1979 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase from $100,000 to $200,000 the cost of used property which is eligible for the investment tax credit.
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 1979
Title I: Fish Restoration Program - Amends the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act to: (1) define the term "coastal State" for the purposes of such Act; and (2) authorize appropriations in the amount equal to the revenue accruing from taxes relating to sport fishing equipment and certain recreational boats and boating equipment for fiscal year 1980 and each fiscal year thereafter. Title II: Fish Restoration Program - Increases the percentage of the annual appropriation deducted for administrative expenses. Sets forth the apportionment ratio for the Secretary of the Interior to use in distributing funds among the States under the fish restoration program. Authorizes the Secretary to expend unobligated funds to carry out the purposes of this Act. Eliminates the notification by a State of intent to accept such apportionment funds requirement. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to finance up to 75 percent of the costs of the acquisition of lands or interests therein and the construction of structures or facilities. Permits each State to utilize up to ten percent of its apportionment for an aquatic resource education program. Title III: Tax on Sale of Sport Fishing Equipment and certain Recreational Boats and Boating Equipment - Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to impose a tax on the sale by the manufacturer, producer, or importer of any article of sport fishing equipment, recreational boats, and boating equipment.
United States · United States Congress · 6 December 1979
Requests the Secretary of Agriculture, in cooperation with the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, to develop a plan for local nutrition monitoring including: (1) the identification of priority target areas; (2) the development of a structure for monitoring specified regions; and (3) the choice of methodology and a timetable.
United States · United States Congress · 5 December 1979
Polygraph Control and Privacy Protection Act of 1979 - Prohibits any person engaged in interstate commerce from: (1) requiring any employee, officer, or applicant for employment to take a polygraph test in connection with such individual's employment; (2) denying employment or disciplining an employee by reason of such individual's refusal to submit to such test; or (3) using the results of such test in connection with such individual's employment. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for violations of such provisions. Authorizes civil actions in U.S. district courts in behalf of aggrieved individuals.
United States · United States Congress · 5 December 1979
Requests the President to work with the Secretary General of the United Nations and with other nations to convene an international conference on Cambodia: (1) to bring an end to the conflict in Southeast Asia; and (2) to consider the needs of the Khmer people.
United States · United States Congress · 15 November 1979
Amends the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act to prohibit a prime sponsor from paying more than the average entry level wage for all employment positions (with specified exceptions) with such prime sponsor to public service jobholders as average federally supported wages. Requires a prime sponsor to submit to the Secretary of Labor the methods and, upon request, the data used in the computation of such average entry level wage.
United States · United States Congress · 14 November 1979
Wind Energy Systems Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1979 - Declares it to be the policy of the United States and the purpose of this Act to establish a research, development, and demonstration program for converting wind energy into electricity. Sets as a goal of such program the attainment of a total megawatt capacity of at least 800 megawatts from wind energy systems by fiscal year 1988 and the reduction of the average cost of electricity produced by such systems to a level competitive with conventional energy sources by the end of fiscal year 1986. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to enter into agreements with public and private entities to obtain scientific, technological, and economic information on the design, fabrication, purchase, installation, and testing of wind energy systems. Authorizes the Secretary to provide financial assistance to entities seeking to install wind energy systems upon submission of the proper application. Sets forth terms and conditions for receiving such assistance. Terminates any Federal subsidization of purchases of such equipment upon the determination that such systems have become competitive with conventional energy sources or by a specified date. Sets forth the amount of such assistance, taking into consideration any tax credits allowed under the Internal Revenue Code for renewable energy source expenditures. Allocates a portion of the funds appropriated to carry out such assistance program for accelerated procurement and installation of wind energy systems by Federal agencies for demonstration purposes. Directs the Secretary to promulgate voluntary performance standards for such systems. Directs the Secretary to initiate a three-year national wind resource assessment program to: (1) validate existing assessments of known wind resources; (2) perform wind resource assessments in regions where the use of wind energy may prove feasible; (3) initiate a general site prospecting program; (4) establish standard wind data collection and siting techniques; (5) establish, in consultation with the Administrators of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, a national wind data center to make public information available on wind energy. Directs the Secretary to prepare a comprehensive program management plan for the research, development, and demonstration activities prescribed under this Act for submission to specified congressional committees. Sets forth criteria for selection of programs consistent with the purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary to monitor, collect and evaluate data and information, and conduct studies and investigations relating to wind energy systems and programs. Directs the Secretary to assure that information relating to programs, projects and other activities conducted under this Act are widely disseminated to Federal, State, and local authorities, relevant segments of the economy, the scientific community and the public, so as to promote the use of wind energy to the maximum extent feasible. Directs the Secretary to assure that small businesses will have adequate opportunities to participate in the programs conducted under this Act to the maximum extent practicable. Authorizes the appropriation of $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1980 to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 November 1979
Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should terminate all military training of Iranian personnel pursuant to sales under the Arms Export Control Act.
United States · United States Congress · 9 November 1979
Sunset Review Act of 1979 - Requires the House Committee on Rules and the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration to jointly develop and maintain an inventory of all Federal programs and tax expenditures. Requires such inventory to classify all such programs and expenditures according to the jurisdiction of the various legislative committees of the two Houses. Requires the General Accounting Office, before the beginning of the 97th Congress, after consultation with the appropriate legislative committees, to submit a draft inventory to the House Committee on Rules and the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration. Requires such Committees to notify each legislative committee of the programs and tax expenditures which are classified within its jurisdiction. Allows any legislative committee to propose revisions of such inventory within 30 days after notification. Requires, after a determination that all programs and tax expenditures are accurately classified, that such inventory be published in a single document. Requires that an update be made of such inventory at the beginning of every Congress. Directs the General Accounting Office to maintain and publish a supplement to the inventory. Requires each legislative committee of the House of Representatives and the Senate, on or before March 1 in the first session of each Congress beginning with the 98th Congress, to develop, adopt, and submit to the House Committee on Rules and the Senate Committees on Rules and Administration an agenda for the sunset review of selected Federal programs within its jurisdiction or in the case of the House Committee on Ways and Means and the Senate Committee on Finance, of selected tax expenditures. Requires the committees of each House to develop their sunset review agenda in consultation with any other committee which has concurrent jurisdiction over any programs or tax expenditures involved. Prohibits either the House or the Senate from considering a primary expense resolution for any legislative committee in any Congress until that committee has developed and submitted its sunset review agenda. Requires the House Committee on Rules and the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration to incorporate such agendas into a consolidated sunset review agenda and to report such consolidated agenda to its House in the form of a concurrent resolution, within seven legislative days after all committee sunset review agendas have been submitted. Requires the consolidated sunset review agenda to be adopted in the House and in the Senate no later than March 30 in the first session of each Congress. Sets forth the procedures for adoption. Requires each committee of the House or the Senate, not later than May 15 in the second session of each Congress, to report a bill or bills modifying, continuing, or terminating each program or tax expenditure which it has been directed to review under the consolidated sunset review agenda adopted during the first session. Requires such bill to be accompanied by a report setting forth the committee's findings, recommendations, and justifications. Requires each department, agency, and instrumentality in the executive branch of the Government which is responsible for the administration of a Federal program or tax expenditure selected for sunset review to give assistance to the appropriate Congressional committees. Specifies that nothing in this Act shall affect the authority of any legislative committee to review programs or tax expenditures within its jurisdiction and to report legislation modifying, continuing, or terminating such programs or expenditures at such times and in such manner as it deems appropriate. Amends rule X of the Rules of the House of Representatives to include the consolidated sunset review agendas and the congressional inventory of Federal programs as part of the House Committee on Rules' functions.
United States · United States Congress · 8 November 1979
Expresses the sense of Congress that the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations bring the matter of the seizure of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran, Iran, before the United Nations.
United States · United States Congress · 7 November 1979
Handgun Crime Control Act of 1979 - Title I: Amendments to Chapter 44, Title 18, United States Code, Gun Control - Amends the Gun Control Act of 1968 to revise and add definitions used in the Act. Defines "handgun" to include handgun parts. Defines "Department" to mean the Department of Justice (current law is under the authority of the Secretary of the Treasury). Prohibits non-licensees from engaging in the business of repairing firearms or ammunition. Stipulates that certain otherwise lawful activities, such as the returning of a firearm by a licensee to the person from whom it was received and the mailing of a firearm to a licensee for the purpose or repair, shall be unlawful with respect to "easily concealable handguns" (that is, those handguns not approved by the Attorney General under this Act). Prohibits the loan or rental of an easily concealable handgun to another person for temporary use for lawful sporting purposes. Prohibits a licensee from selling a handgun to a person who does not appear in person at the licensee's business premises. Prohibits a licensee from selling or delivering a firearm or ammunition to any person if such sale or delivery violates a public ordinance at the place of residence of the purchaser. Revises the statement which must be submitted to a licensee by a purchaser not appearing at such licensee's business premises to provide that such purchaser be 18 years of age with respect to all firearms (current law requires a purchaser of any firearm other than a shotgun or rifle to be 21 years of age). Prohibits a licensee from manufacturing, assembling, selling, or transferring any handgun, other than a curio or relic, which has not been approved by the Attorney General. Prohibits any person from transferring such a handgun unless such person has reasonable cause to believe that the handgun has been approved. Excepts the mailing of handguns to comply with approved standards under certain circumstances. Prohibits the modification of an approved handgun resulting in the failure of such handgun to meet the approved standards. Revises the current prohibition against certain classes of individuals transporting a firearm or ammunition in interstate commerce to: (1) extend such prohibition to possession or receipt of any firearm or ammunition; and (2) include as additional categories illegal aliens, persons dishonorably discharged from the Armed Forces, and persons who have renounced their United States citizenship. Includes such categories in the current prohibition against selling a firearm or ammunition to certain classes of individuals. Prohibits any person from transporting a firearm or ammunition in interstate or foreign commerce in violation of a State law in a place to or through which the firearm was transported. Prohibits a licensee from transferring three or more handguns to the same non-licensee within a period of one year, without prior approval of the Attorney General. Prohibits a non-licensee from receiving three or more handguns within one year without such approval. Prohibits any person who has knowledge of the loss, theft, or disappearance of a handgun in his or her control or possession to fail to report such incident to a law enforcement officer and the Attorney General. Specifies the circumstances under which a person in lawful possession of a license or permit to: (1) carry handguns issued under a State licensing or permit granting program approved by the Attorney General may purchase or receive a handgun in any State from a licensed dealer or non-licensee; and (2) purchase handguns issued under an approved program, may purchase or receive a handgun in the State issuing the license or permit. Directs the Attorney General to review State laws providing for licenses or permits to carry or purchase handguns and to certify as approved those satisfying specified requirements. Specifies the circumstances under which (except as provided by other sections of the Act) a licensed dealer or non-licensee may transfer a handgun to another non-licensee. Sets new annual licensing fees of $5,000 for a manufacturer or importer of handguns, $500 for a dealer in handguns, $100 for a dealer in ammunition for handguns that is not also used in rifles, and $100 for a dealer who is a gunsmith. Prohibits a pawnbroker from being licensed as a dealer in handguns or handgun ammunition and such dealers from conducting business from the premises of a pawnbroker. Imposes additional requirements for the approval of a license application by the Attorney General. Increases from 45 to 90 days the period in which an application must be approved or denied. Authorizes the Attorney General, after notice and opportunity for hearing, to suspend or revoke a license, or subject a licensee who violates any provision of the Act to a civil penalty of up to $10,000 per violation. Sets forth new recordkeeping requirements for licensed importers, manufacturers, and dealers in handguns. Provides for the transfer of records where a licensee loses his or her license, transfers the business to another person, or in any way ceases doing business. Directs the Attorney General to appoint a 15-member Handgun Criteria Commission to develop criteria for the evaluation of handgun models according to frame size and other appropriate factors for determining whether such models are easily concealable, have potential for criminal use, or are particularly suitable for sporting purposes. Requires the Commission to submit a report containing such criteria within one year of enactment and to evaluate biannually the effectiveness of existing criteria. Directs the Attorney General to revise the criteria upon a determination by the Commission that handguns satisfying existing criteria are significantly involved in handgun crime. Requires final criteria to be transmitted to Congress, which may disapprove by resolution the criteria within 60 days of continuous session. Directs the Attorney General to approve for manufacture, importation, or transfer any handgun model which satisfies the established criteria after representative samples of such model are evaluated and tested. Authorizes exceptions with respect to handguns which are particularly appropriate for law enforcement purposes. Directs the Attorney General, prior to the time that criteria have been established, to evaluate samples of all handgun models and approve for manufacture, importation, or transfer handgun models which meet specified requirements. Sets forth procedures for the administrative review of a finding that a sample submitted has failed to meet the approved standards. Requires the Attorney General to publish at least semiannually in the general register a list of handgun models which have been tested and the test results. Deems approved any handgun model not in manufacture on or after October 21, 1968, and which has not been tested. Revises the penalties under such Act. Disallows, with respect to a person who uses or carries a firearm during the commission of any felony and receives an additional sentence, the suspension of such sentence, the giving of probation, or the concurrent running of a term of imprisonment (under current law such prohibitions apply only to a second or subsequent offense). Sets forth a mandatory period of parole ineligibility for such offense, unless the court finds specified mitigating circumstances. Makes any person (including a licensee) who negligently sells or transfers a handgun in violation of this Act civilly liable for the death or injury suffered by an individual as a result of the use of the handgun by the transferee in the commission of an offense that causes death or personal injury to that individual. Stipulates that certain exceptions to the provisions of the Act shall only apply with respect to handguns which have been approved by the Attorney General in accordance with the Act. Allows a mental incompetent to be relieved from the disabilities of the Act with respect to the possession, acquisition, or transfer of firearms upon specific findings by a court. Authorizes the Attorney General to permit the importation of approved handguns. Directs the Attorney General to make annual grants for each fiscal year and supplemental grants at his or her discretion for compensation of victims of handgun crime to qualifying State programs for the compensation of victims of handgun crime. Specifies eligibility criteria for such programs and the amount of authorized payments. Requires the Attorney General to submit annual reports to the congressional judiciary committees concerning such programs. Establishes a nine-member Advisory Committee on Victims of Handgun Crime to advise the Attorney General on the administration of the programs and policies relating to the compensation of victims of handgun crimes. Title II: Gun Control Functions Transferred to Attorney General - Transfers to the Attorney General all functions of the Secretary of the Treasury under the Gun Control Act of 1968. Authorizes the President to transfer additional functions of other agencies to the Department which relate to the functions transferred by this Act. Establishes within the Department of Justice the Firearms Safety and Abuse Control Administration to administer the functions of the Attorney General under the Gun Control Act of 1968. Directs the Attorney General to transmit to Congress as part of the annual report of the Department of Justice a report on the activities of the Administration. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Amends the Federal criminal code to increase from 45 to 90 days the period in which an application for a user permit or a license to import, manufacture, or deal in explosive materials must be approved or denied. Authorizes the Attorney General, after notice and opportunity for hearing, to suspend or revoke a license, or subject a licensee who violates any statutory requirement to a civil penalty of up to $10,000 per violation. Directs the Postal Service to promulgate regulations for the conveyance of handguns in the mails. Directs the Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations established by the Act of September 24, 1959, in consultation with the United States Conference of Mayors, the National League of Cities, and representatives of Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies, to report within six months of enactment on: (1) intergovernmental problems in controlling illicit handgun traffic; and (2) the effectiveness of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 and the Gun Control Act of 1968. Repeals title VII of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act (relating to the receipt, possession, or transportation of firearms by felons, veterans dishonorably discharged, mental incompetents, illegal aliens, and persons renouncing their United States citizenship). Makes this Act effective 120 days after enactment, with specified exceptions.
United States · United States Congress · 30 October 1979
Social Security Refinancing Amendments of 1979 - Title I: Financing of Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance Program - Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to reduce the tax rates applicable to employers, employees, and self-employment income for old age, survivors and disability insurance. Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to reduce the level of appropriations from general Federal revenues to the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund. Title II: Financing of Medicare Program - Eliminates taxation of employers, employees, and self-employed individuals for purposes of hospital insurance beginning in the 1980 calendar year. Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide financing for the Medicare program with appropriations from general revenues earmarked by the Secretary of the Treasury in consultation with the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare. Bases such appropriations on the expected needs of the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund in each fiscal year allocated among individual tax receipts according to a specified formula. Requires an equal amount to be allocated from corporate tax returns. Directs each Advisory Council on Social Security after 1979 to submit a separate report on the Medicare program and its financing. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to print on each individual tax form notice of the amount of the individual's return which will be allocated to the Medicare program.
United States · United States Congress · 26 October 1979
Appropriates sums necessary to continue any Federal purpose or function which is not funded on the first day of any fiscal year if such purpose or function was funded during the previous fiscal year. Stipulates that the level of funding may not exceed that applicable on the last day of the previous fiscal year. Declares that such continuing appropriations shall remain available for one fiscal year or: (1) the enactment of an appropriation for such purpose or function; or (2) the enactment of a general appropriation for the applicable department or agency without providing for such purpose or function. Makes such continuing appropriations available without regard to certain time limitations for submission and approval of apportionments required by law. States that while such continuing appropriations are available they shall cover all expenditures related to such purpose or function. Charges expenditures made under this Act to the applicable fund or authorization once legislation is enacted providing such an account.
United States · United States Congress · 24 October 1979
Amends the National Trails Systems Act to authorize a study to be conducted by the Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture, the appropriate States, and the Cherokee people, to determine the feasibility of designating the Trail of Tears as a National Historic Trail. Includes the Trail of Tears as a route to be studied for designation as a national scenic trail.
United States · United States Congress · 19 October 1979
Expresses the sense of Congress that the Soviet Union should release Ida Nudel and allow her to emigrate to Israel. Urges the President to: (1) express U.S. opposition to the exile of Ida Nudel to Siberia; and (2) inform the Soviet Union that the United States will take into account the extent to which countries honor their commitments under international law, particularly concerning human rights.
United States · United States Congress · 16 October 1979
Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to prohibit the payment of benefits to any individual for any month in which such individual is confined in a penal institution. Stipulates that benefits withheld from such individuals shall be treated as having been paid to such individuals for purposes of determining the benefits to which other persons are entitled on the basis of the same wages and self-employment income.
United States · United States Congress · 16 October 1979
Calls upon the President, with respect to Chile, to: (1) recall the U.S. Ambassador to Chile; (2) apply statutes limiting assistance to countries with terrorist governments or countries harboring terrorists; (3) prohibit deliveries of defense articles or services; (4) recall all military personnel; (5) prohibit the issuance of U.S. visas to Chilean military or intelligence personnel; (6) prohibit credits or loan guarantees to be granted by the Export-Import Bank; (7) prohibit the granting of export licenses; (8) order the immediate suspension of private bank loans; and (9) demand that Chilean rights be fully restored.
United States · United States Congress · 16 October 1979
Amends rule XXI of the Rules of the House of Representatives to prohibit any provision in any appropriation bill or amendment to such bill which changes existing law or has the effect of imposing any limitation not contained in existing law.
United States · United States Congress · 12 October 1979
Amends the Puerto Rico Federal Relations Act to require that initial pleadings in the United States District Court for the District of Puerto Rico be filed in either the Spanish or English language. Requires further pleadings and proceedings to be in English, unless: (1) the defendant in a criminal case requests that they be in Spanish; (2) all parties in a civil case agree that they be in Spanish; or (3) the court orders such pleadings and proceedings to be in Spanish. Specifies language provisions for court opinions and appeals. Prohibits the disqualification of persons on a grand or petit jury in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico solely because of a person's inability to speak, read, write, and understand English if such person is able to speak, read, write, and understand the language in which the proceeding for which the juror is called is to be conducted. Allows the Government attorney to determine whether a grand jury is to be conducted in English or Spanish. Directs the Administrative Office of the United States Courts to report periodically to Congress on the implementation of this Act. Makes the provisions of this effective one year and 180 days after enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 12 October 1979
Fair Financial Information Practices Act of 1979 - Title I: To Amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act - Privacy Protection Amendments of 1979 - Amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act to revise the definition of consumer report to include those prepared in connection with insurance transactions, governmental benefits, and business transactions. Broadens the exemptions from such definition. Specifies those services or agencies that are not considered to be consumer reporting agencies. Sets forth the agencies and persons to whom a consumer reporting agency may furnish a consumer report. Raises the amounts involved in transactions which make consumer credit reports exempt from the provision prohibiting the inclusion of specified information in such reports. Requires consumers to be notified prior to the procurement or preparation of an investigative consumer report on such consumer. Requires specified information be given to applicants for insurance concerning such reports. Directs persons who procure or cause to be prepared such reports to make a complete disclosure, at the request of the consumer, of the nature and scope of the investigation requested. Directs credit reporting agencies or independent authorization services to notify consumers of impermissible uses of consumer reports. Directs such agencies to assure that file items reflect good faith exercises by consumers of their rights. Prohibits such agencies from requiring a quota of reports. Requires regular reporters of consumer information to agencies to ensure the accuracy of their information. Describes the information that must be given to a requesting consumer. Permits such agencies or services to withhold: (1) third party medical information, if it discloses the same to a medical professional designated by the consumer; (2) identifying information of any noninstitutional source of information in specified circumstances; and (3) codes used to ensure the security of a reporting system. Requires disclosures be made during specified hours and by specified means depending on the circumstances. Directs such agencies or services to provide trained personnel to explain any information to the consumer. Revises the procedures to be followed by consumers or creditors disputing the accuracy or completeness of any item of information contained in a file. Establishes: (1) time limits for the consumer reporting agency to reinvestigate such disputes; and (2) notification requirements concerning the results of such reinvestigations. Requires consumer reports to be furnished free of charge to consumers notified of an adverse credit rating pursuant to this Act or the Fair Authorization Information Practices Act. Directs consumer reporting agencies furnishing a consumer report for employment purposes to transmit a copy of such report to the individual to whom it relates. Requires every investigative consumer report containing adverse information to be in writing. Requires users of consumer reports to disclose the address of any consumer reporting agency which prepared a report resulting in adverse action, as well as the reasons for such action. Prohibits agencies from using interviews to obtain information about a consumer in which the interviewer misrepresents the purpose of the interview or his or her identity. Sets forth the civil damages to which a consumer is entitled for willful noncompliance with this Act. Increases the criminal penalties for obtaining information under false pretenses and unauthorized disclosures. Provides criminal penalties for alterations of consumer reports. Directs the Federal Reserve Board to prepare a model summary of consumers' rights under this Title. Gives enforcement authority for this Title to the Federal Trade Commission. Provides for these amendments to take effect one year after enactment. Title II: Fair Credit Information Practices - Fair Credit Information Practices Act - Sets forth the persons to whom and the circumstances under which a creditor may disclose individually identifiable information collected or maintained in connection with a credit transaction. Requires creditors to notify consumers of their: (1) credit information collection and disclosure practices; and (2) use or disclosure of individually identifiable information for marketing purposes. Sets limits on a creditor's information collection practices. Requires consumers to be given specified information in the event of an adverse credit decision. Gives the consumer the right of access to credit information on which an adverse decision is based. Sets forth the procedure to be followed if a consumer disputes the accuracy or completeness of any item of information. Requires creditors to notify another creditor, consumer reporting agency, debt collector, or independent authorization service of any inaccurate information reported to such parties. Directs the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System to prescribe regulations pertaining to notice and adverse credit decisions. Provides for the enforcement of this Act by the Federal Trade Commission unless otherwise specified. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Requires consumers to be served with a copy of any legal process requesting information pertaining to such consumer. Permits consumers to contest the disclosure of such information. Amends the Equal Credit Opportunity Act to deem compliance with this Act as being in compliance with the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. Provides for this Act to take effect one year after enactment. Title III: Fair Authorization Information Practices - Fair Authorization Information Practices Act - Specifies the parties to whom individually identifiable information may be disclosed by an independent authorization service. Sets forth the duties of such services and their subscribers. Provides a procedure to be followed when a consumer disputes the accuracy or completeness of any item of information. Makes such services liable to consumers adversely affected as a result of inaccurate information or information obtained in violation of this Act which is maintained by such service. Provides for this Act to take effect one year after enactment. Title IV: Fair Debit Information Practices - Fair Debit Information Practices Act - Sets forth the circumstances and the persons to whom individually identifiable information maintained in connection with a depository service may be disclosed by a depository institution. Requires depository institutions to notify the customer, applying for the provision of any depository service, of information disclosure practices. Grants enforcement authority to the Federal Trade Commission, unless otherwise specified. Provides civil and criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Permits depository institutions to disclose to a party to civil litigation information pertaining to a customer who is also party to the litigation, if such disclosure is pursuant to some compulsory legal process. Requires customers to be notified of such process if they are not parties to the proceeding. Permits such customers to contest the disclosure of the information. Provides for this Act to take effect one year after enactment. Title V: Fair Insurance Information Practices - Fair Insurance Information Practices - Fair Insurance Information Practices Act - Sets forth the circumstances and the persons to whom individually identifiable personal information may be disclosed by an insurance institution, agent, or support organization. Requires such institutions and agents to notify the insurance applicant or claimant of their information collection and disclosure practices prior to collecting personal information about an individual. Specifies the manner in which personal information may be collected. Requires insurance institutions, agents, or support organizations to make personal information in their control available to the individual concerned. Specifies the procedures to be followed. Permits specified information to be withheld from an individual in specified circumstances. Gives the individual concerned the right to have errors corrected and misrepresentations amended according to specified procedures. Requires insurance institutions or agents to notify individuals subject to an adverse underwriting decision of the reasons for such decision and the individual's rights. Sets forth circumstances in which the notice requirements do not apply. Declares that the individual's exercise of the rights under this Act shall not affect the individual's eligibility for insurance benefits. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Authorizes the principal State insurance regulatory official to enforce this Act. Provides for this Act to take effect one year after enactment. Exempts personal information maintained by an insurance institution from the Privacy Act of 1974. Sets forth provisions concerning the disclosure of personal information by an insurance institution, agent, or support organization pursuant to some compulsory legal process.
United States · United States Congress · 28 September 1979
National Historic Preservation Amendments of 1979 - Amends the Act known as the "National Historic Preservation Act of 1966" to officially entitle such Act the "National Historic Preservation Act." Declares under such Act, that it is the duty of the Federal Government, in cooperation with other nations, the States, local communities, and private organizations and individuals, to promote the preservation and conservation of the historic, architectural, archaeological, and cultural resources of the United States and of the international community of Nations. Declares that the Federal Government shall give priority to preservation activities for the revitalization of urban areas, the conservation of agricultural areas, the creation of local employment opportunities, and the conservation of energy. Directs the Administrator for Historic Preservation appointed pursuant to this Act to establish and maintain a National Register of Historic Places at the national, State, or local level in accordance with procedures set forth in this Act. Requires that such properties shall: (1) be of national or world heritage significance; (2) involve a direct or indirect public investment; and (3) be legally dedicated to preservation. Directs the Administrator, not later than one year after his initial appointment, to establish an Inventory of Historic Resources on a State-by-State basis. Declares that those properties which are determined to meet the criteria of significance, but which lack the other requirements for inclusion in the National Register, shall be designated as eligible for inclusion on the Register. Makes such Inventory available to all Federal, State, and local government departments, agencies, and instrumentalities. Requires the Administrator to promulgate regulations concerning nondisclosure to the public of any property location where such disclosure would be likely to endanger the property. States that properties included in such inventory and designated as eligible properties shall be treated as certified historic structures under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, unless the Administrator finds that such treatment would not further the purposes of this Act. Declares that such properties shall be entitled to financial assistance in accordance with provisions of such Act. Directs the Administrator to review, during the one-year period following enactment of this Act, all properties included in the National Register under prior authority of law. Requires the Administrator to include each property designated as "National Historic Landmarks" under prior authority and each property which meets the requirements of this Act in the National Register. Provides that those properties included in the Register under prior authority, but which do not meet all the requirements under this Act shall be designated in the Inventory as "eligible properties." Allows any State or local government carrying out an approved program under this Act or any Federal agency to nominate a property for inclusion in the Register or for inclusion in the Inventory as an eligible property. Requires such information to be included in the Register, as appropriate, unless the Administrator disapproves such nomination within 30 days of its receipt. Allows the Administrator to accept a nomination from any person, if the property nominated is located in a State or political subdivision where there is no approved program. Requires the Administrator to determine the eligibility or inclusion of such property in the Register. Allows the Administrator on his own motion or at the request of any person, to include any property on the Inventory and designate such property as eligible if he determines such property to meet the requirements of this Act. Declares that a property shall be considered of national significance when: (1) the Congress so designates a property; (2) a property is included in the National Park System as a historical unit; or (3) the Administrator determines the property to be of national significance. States that a property shall be considered to be of World Heritage significance when it is included in the World Heritage list maintained in accordance with the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage. Declares that a property shall be considered a public investment if government agency fund expenditures directly or indirectly contribute substantially to the preservation of such property, or if a Federal income tax deduction or similar State or local measure is taken with respect to the amortization of amounts spent for rehabilitation of a certified historic structure. Provides that a property shall be treated as legally dedicated to preservation when: (1) an easement, or other property interest, requiring preservation of significant features of such property for not less than 30 years is held by any person or government entity or is otherwise legally binding on the owner; (2) such property is under public ownership and managed for preservation; or (3) any State or local law provides for the designation or preservation of such property. Requires the Administrator to promulgate regulations to carry out the purposes of this Act. Directs the Administrator to establish and administer grant-in-aid programs to States and the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and programs of direct grants, loans or loan guarantees for historic preservation. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States, upon application, for programs approved under this Act. Prohibits such grants from paying more than 50 percent of the costs of such programs. Provides that the remaining 50 percent shall be contributed by non-Federal sources, and of such percentage not more than 25 percent may be contributed in the form of property or services, or both. Requires the Administrator, upon approval of such programs, to evaluate such programs every four years to determine whether or not such programs are in compliance with the requirements of this Act. Requires the Administrator to conduct periodic fiscal audits of the recipients of Federal grants. States that State and local governments may assume the responsibility for financial and compliance audits of Federal grants received by them and other persons or organizations and their subgrantees. Declares that the Federal Government shall be responsible for audits which deal with economy, efficiency, and program results and for assuring that such financial and compliance audits are conducted under generally accepted audit standards. Directs State and local governments receiving grants to set forth in writing criteria by which they judge whether they are meeting program requirements, to be available for use by the auditors. Directs the Administrator to reimburse State and local governments for actual expenses incurred in conducting such audits. Sets forth the following requirements for approval of State programs: (1) designation by the Governor of a State historic preservation officer; (2) transfer of not less than 50 percent of the grants received to political subdivisions of the State having preservation programs; (3) provision of financial mechanisms for the development of properties on the National Register or in the Inventory of Historic Resources; (4) provision of mechanisms for the acquisition, acceptance of donations, and dedication of fee title in applicable properties; (5) provisions for relocation assistance to persons or businesses affected within the historic district; (6) giving priority to projects that will conserve energy, are labor intensive, or will further urban revitalization or agricultural conservation; (7) provision of a professional acceptable mechanism for the identification, evaluation, and protection of historic properties within the State; and (8) otherwise carrying out the purposes of this Act. Sets forth restrictions for grants made under this Act for the improvement of properties. Prohibits grants made under this Act for the improvement of properties. Prohibits grants made for any single property to exceed $50,000. Prohibits any grant to any State in any fiscal year to exceed ten percent of such funds to carry out a comprehensive statewide survey of historic resources. Requires that no more than 15 percent of such grant be used for improvement of government buildings used for governmental purposes. Sets forth procedures for the allocation by States of grants to political subdivisions. Allows the Administrator to allocate funds to any political subdivision of any State that does not have an approved program within two years after the date of enactment of this Act. Sets forth procedures for approval of State historic preservation programs in effect under prior authority of law. Sets forth conditions for grants and loans that may be made by the Administrator for: (1) the preservation of properties of national or world heritage significance; (2) demonstration projects to preserve any eligible property or property on the National Register; (3) the training and development of skilled labor in trades and crafts and in curation relating to historic preservation; and (4) Indian tribes for the preservation of historic properties. Provides that any such loans made by the Administrator shall be at an interest rate determined by the Secretary of the Treasury guided by applicable provisions of this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to make loan guarantees for any project approved by the State historic preservation officer, or the chief elected official of any State that does not have an approved program. Sets forth conditions for loans and loan guarantees made by the Administrator in consultation with the Secretary of Treasury. Authorizes the Administrator to deem any portion of any record, material, or data received in connection with any financial application as privileged or confidential within the meaning of applicable law. Establishes as an independent agency a Historic Preservation Agency to be under the direction of the Administrator for Historic Preservation, appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Directs the President to establish an Advisory Council on Historic Preservation to be composed of the following members: (1) the Secretary of the Interior and the Architect of the Capitol; (2) four agency heads (other than the Department of the Interior) whose activities affect historic preservation; (3) representatives of the National Conference of State Historic Preservation Officers, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and four professionals in the fields of history, architecture, archeology, urban planning, or related disciplines; (4) three State governors or mayors; and (5) three at large members of the general public. Sets forth requirements and procedures to be followed in the operation of the Council. Authorizes the Council to conduct hearings and make determinations and recommendations with respect to the protection of historic properties. Requires the Council, when transmitting legislative recommendations, testimony, or comments on legislation to the President or the Office of Management and Budget, to concurrently transmit such copies thereof to the House Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs and the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Sets forth the duties of the Administrator including: (1) advising the President and the Congress on matters relating to historic preservation; (2) encouraging public interest and participation in historic preservation; (3) conducting studies relating to historic preservation and the effects of tax policies on such preservation; (4) assisting State and local governments in drafting appropriate legislation; (5) providing training and education in the field of historic preservation; and (6) maintaining the historic register, surveys, and records of the agency. Requires the Administrator to submit an annual comprehensive report of his activities and the results of his studies to the President and the Congress. Authorizes the Administrator to accept donations and bequests of money and real and personal property, and to use such donations in accordance with provisions of this Act. Directs the Administrator, consistent with the provisions of this Act, to institute a program of education and training relating to historic preservation for Federal agencies, State and local governments, private organizations and individuals, and other nations and international organizations connected with the World Heritage Convention. Directs the Administrator to increase the awareness of historic resources and preservation among the student population of the United States, to develop mechanisms to give the public a greater knowledge of historic resources in the cultural heritage of the United States, and to establish a program for training and development of skilled labor in trades and crafts relating to historic preservation. Requires the Administrator to review the policies and programs of Federal agencies whose activities are under the purview of this Act. Directs the Administrator to promulgate guidelines relative to archaeological and historical data for Federal agencies consistent with provisions of this Act. Directs the Administrator, within one year after his appointment, to establish, jointly with the Secretaries of the Interior, Agriculture, and Defense, and the Administrator of the General Services Administration, standards for the management and preservation of federally owned historic properties. Directs the Administrator to review and approve the plans of transferees of surplus federally owned properties eligible for or on the National Register to ensure historic preservation in the rehabilitation of such properties. Requires all Federal agencies administering any program of Federal assistance to any State or local government or under which any Federal approval is required to coordinate such program with the purposes of this Act. Requires such agencies to submit proposals to the Administrator, within 180 days after his appointment, relative to their preservation activities. Directs the Administrator to designate National Historic Landmarks and World Heritage properties and to submit such designations to the appropriate World Heritage properties and to submit such designations to the appropriate congressional committees 30 days after such designations become effective. Directs the Administrator to encourage and coordinate United States participation in the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage and other international historic preservation activities in cooperation with the Secretaries of the Interior and State, and the Smithsonian Institution. Requires the Administrator to establish a program to nominate historic properties to the World Heritage Committee on behalf of the United States. Requires such nominations to be submitted to the appropriate congressional committees 60 days prior to the intended action. Authorizes the participation of the United States as a member of the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property. Authorizes the appropriation of the sums necessary for United States membership in the Centre for fiscal years 1979 through 1989. Directs the Administrator to establish a program to encourage tourism by people of other nations to historic properties of the United States, reflecting the diverse, ethnic and cultural heritages of the citizens of the United States. Requires each Federal agency to notify the Administrator 45 days prior to any undertaking outside the United States that may affect a property on the World Heritage list or which has been nominated for inclusion on such list. Requires the head of each Federal agency to designate a Preservation Officer responsible for coordinating the agency's activities under this Act. Requires each agency having jurisdiction or control over properties on the National Register to submit property management plans to the Administrator for comment within one year after the date of enactment of this Act. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to study and investigate properties included in the National Register which are under the jurisdiction or control of Federal agencies. Authorizes the Secretary to recommend to the President the transfer of administrative jurisdiction or control of such properties to him as a unit of the National Park System. Requires such recommendation to be concurrently submitted to the House Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs and the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Authorizes the Secretary, upon the concurrence of the Administrator, to accept gifts or donations of less than fee interests in any properties in the National Register, where such acceptance will facilitate the preservation of such property. Authorizes each Federal agency having authority for management of any real property, with the concurrence of the Administrator, to lease or exchange with any person or organization the management of properties on the National Register. Requires the proceeds of such leases to be retained by the agency to defray the expenses with respect to such properties, and the surplus proceeds to be deposited in the United States Treasury. Allows the heads of such agencies to enter into contracts for the management of such properties. Directs all Federal agencies to cooperate with purchasers and transferees of eligible property or property included in the National Register in the development of plans for uses of such property comparable with preservation and conservation objectives without imposing unreasonable economic burdens on public or private interests. Requires each Federal agency having direct or indirect jurisdiction over a proposed Federal or federally assisted undertaking in any State to survey the affected area to determine the effect of such undertaking on the protection of historic properties. Authorizes the Administrator to promulgate regulations or guidelines, as appropriate, under which Federal programs or undertakings may be exempted from the requirements of this Act. Authorizes all Federal agencies to expend appropriated funds for purposes of this Act. Requires each Federal agency to provide the Administrator a 45-day comment period with respect to any program or policy that may affect historic properties. Defines terms used in this Act. Establishes a Historic Preservation Fund in the Treasury of the United States to be funded from revenues payable to the United States under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act or the Act of June 4, 1920, or both. States that not less than two-thirds of appropriated funds shall be available for other grants or loans and for the Administrator to carry out his duties under this Act. Directs the Administrator to establish regulations to insure maximum public participation in all activities of the Administrator, the Council, other Federal agencies, States, and units of local governments in carrying out requirements under this Act. Declares that grants made under this Act may not be used to satisfy requirements of other provisions of law requiring matching by State or local funds nor shall they be treated as taxable income for purposes of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954. Grants attorney fees to any person who prevails in any civil action brought in any United States district court against any Federal agency to enforce the requirement relating to the protection of historic properties in connection with the action of a Federal agency. Authorizes the Administrator to establish an annual preservation awards program under which he makes awards to Federal, State, or local government officers or employees in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the preservation of historic resources. Allows the President to award any citizen of the United States recommended for such award by the Administrator. Directs the Administrator to promulgate regulations for carrying out the awards program. Authorizes the Administrator to delegate to any State having an approved program under this Act the authority to carry out responsibilities under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 with respect to such approved program. Transfers the provisions of various Acts relating to historic preservation responsibilities from the Secretary of the Interior to the Administrator for Historic Preservation. Authorizes the Administrator to issue an order to postpone for 60 days any action undertaken, or being undertaken, by any Federal agency, or agency or instrumentality of a State or local government, or by any other person if such action may adversely affect any property included in the National Register. Directs the Administrator, during the period, to endeavor to develop an acceptable preservation plan for the affected property, or to exercise his emergency acquisition authority provided under this Act. Provides procedures for the assessment of civil penalties for violations of such orders, and for judicial review in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia or any other district in which such person resides. Provides procedures for administrative hearings for the assessment of civil penalties. Establishes the Pension Building in Washington, District of Columbia, as a national historic site to be named the "National Center for the Building Arts." Requires the Administrator of the General Services Administration to transfer such building and lands to the jurisdiction of the Secretary of the Interior. Directs the Secretary to administer the management of the Center in accordance with provisions of this Act and other Acts generally applicable to units of the National Park System. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into contracts with the National Building Arts Foundation relating to management of such Center. Appropriates $15,000,000 to be used for the renovation of the Center. Establishes a National Building Arts Foundation and specifies programs it shall carry out relating to the building arts. Directs the Foundation to coordinate its activities with other public and private organizations and individuals in order to avoid duplication of efforts relating to the functions of the Foundation. Establishes a Board of Trustees of the Foundation and provides for the funding of the Foundation. Directs the General Accounting Office to review and audit regularly the accounts of the Foundation to determine the ability of the Foundation to pay for the functions of the Center. Requires the Foundation to submit annually a report to the appropriate congressional committees containing a statement of its activities pursuant to this Act and a proposal for its programs during the succeeding four years. Provides emergency acquisition procedures for the Administrator for any properties eligible for or in the National Register where such properties are threatened with demolition or impairment. Directs the Administrator, in consultation with the American Folklife Center of the Library of Congress and the Buildings Arts Foundation, to report within two years after the date of enactment of this Act, to the President and the Congress on preserving and conserving the intangible elements of our cultural heritage. Requires the report to include recommendations for legislative and administrative action by the Federal Government relating to such heritage. Directs the Administrator for the Historic Preservation Agency to submit the following reports: (1) to the President and the Congress within eight years on the operation of the Historic Preservation Fund; (2) to the Congress within 90 days of his appointment on his study of the Pennsylvania Avenue Development Corporation; (3) to the President and Congress within one year of his appointment on recommendations with respect to Federal tax laws relating to historic preservation; and (4) to the President and the Congress within two years of enactment of this Act on recommmendations for the creation of a National System of Cultural Parks. Amends the Pennsylvania Development Corporation Act to require any historic property demolition, or other rehabilitation, to be in accordance with applicable Federal and District of Columbia laws.
United States · United States Congress · 28 September 1979
Elementary School Guidance and Counseling Incentive Act of 1979 - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1981 through 1985 for State allotments for comprehensive elementary school guidance and counseling programs, supplemental grants to States for elementary school guidance and counseling, and grants for demonstration and evaluation programs. Provides formulas for such State allotments, based on the population of elementary school children, with minimum required amounts. Directs the Commissioner of Education to administer State allotments and State plans through the Office of Guidance and Counseling of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Requires that each State, to be eligible for such allotments, submit to the Commissioner a State plan for providing comprehensive elementary school guidance and counseling programs for a five-year period, with necessary annual revisions, which meets such criteria as the Commissioner may by regulation prescribe. Sets forth required provisions of such plans and programs. Provides for appeal by a State of a final action of the Commissioner to a circuit court of appeals. Authorizes the Commissioner, through the Office of Guidance and Counseling, to make grants to States with approved plans for distribution to local educational agencies and for support of States with approved plans for distribution to local educational agencies and for support of State agency leadership activities on the basis of statewide needs and priorities in elementary school guidance and counseling. Sets forth approved uses of such grants. Directs the Commissioner, through the Office of Guidance and Counseling, to carry out a program of demonstration and evaluation relating to elementary school guidance and counseling. Sets forth approved types of demonstration and evaluation projects. Requires the Office of Guidance and Counseling to collect, analyze, prepare, and disseminate information related to the provision of guidance and counseling services to elementary school-age children. Requires specified State and local educational agencies to designate supervisors of elementary guidance services or programs.
United States · United States Congress · 27 September 1979
Recognizes Goodloe Byron, former Member of the U.S. House of Representatives and the State Senate of Maryland, for his efforts to provide for the protection of the Appalachian Trail for public use and enjoyment. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, in cooperation with the Appalachian Trail Conference and the State of Maryland, to design and erect at a location along the Maryland segment of the Trail an appropriate marker in commemoration of the contributions of Goodloe Byron.
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 1979
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that the standard mileage rate used in computing the charitable deduction for expenses incurred in the operation of a motor vehicle shall be the same as the standard mileage rate established by the Secretary of the Treasury for the business related deduction.
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 1979
National Center of Afro-American History and Culture Act - Establishes the National Afro-American History and Culture Commission which shall: (1) be responsible for the development of a definitive plan for the construction and operation of the National Center for Afro-American History and Culture; and (2) solicit subscriptions of funds from private sources to help meet costs of the construction, furnishing, and operation of the center, including the costs of acquiring works of art and artifacts. Allows the Commission to: (1) acquire by gift, purchase with appropriated or donated funds, transfer from any Federal or State agency, exchange, or otherwise acquire suitable land and interest in land in the vicinity of Wilberforce, Ohio, for the location of the headquarters of the center; (2) acquire appropriate works of art and any other real or personal property necessary for the establishment and operation of the center; and (3) sell, exchange, or otherwise dispose of any property acquired and designate any proceeds from such disposal for the benefit of the center. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire by donation or purchase with donated or appropriated funds the Colonel Charles Young Home and adjacent lands in Wilberforce, Ohio, not to exceed 80 acres, which when acquired shall be known as the Wilberforce National Historic Site.
United States · United States Congress · 21 September 1979
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow individuals a refundable income tax credit equal to one-third of the total cost during the taxable year of heating oil purchased by such individuals for use in a residence for residential purposes. Limits the dollar amount of such credit to $400 for the taxable year. Reduces the amount of such credit by one percent of the amount by which the taxpayer's adjusted gross income exceeds $20,000. Provides for the termination of the credit for taxable years ending after December 31, 1983.
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1979
Pollution Control Facilities Tax Incentives Act of 1979 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit a taxpayer to elect a 12 month amortization period or an additional ten percent investment tax credit for pollution control facilities used in connection with a plant or other property in operation before January 1, 1971.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1979
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that employers may not be required to make deposits (or other payments) of social security taxes or withholding of tax amounts earlier than currently required by regulation.
United States · United States Congress · 13 September 1979
Solar Energy Incentive Tax Act of 1979 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an additional 40 percent investment tax credit for solar energy property. Extends the termination date for such credit to December 31, 1985. Increases the residential energy credit for renewable energy source expenditures to 50 percent of such expenditures up to $10,000. Qualifies solar energy property which performs more than one energy-related function for the residential energy credit.
United States · United States Congress · 7 September 1979
Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize disaster relief and reconstruction assistance to alleviate human suffering caused by hurricanes in the Caribbean. Stipulates that priority shall be given to furnishing agricultural commodities under the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954.
United States · United States Congress · 6 September 1979
Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1979 - Entitles title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 (as entitled by this Act) the Fair Housing Act. Amends such Act to define "handicap" as: (1) a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more of a person's major life activities; (2) a record of having such an impairment; or (3) being regarded as having such an impairment. Defines "aggrieved person" as any person who claims to have been injured by a discriminatory housing practice or who believes that such person will be irrevocably injured by a discriminatory housing practice that is about to occur. Exempts from coverage under such Act a room or unit in an owner-occupied dwelling intended to be occupied by no more than four families living independently if such room or unit is sold or rented: (1) without the assistance of any real estate broker, agent, or salesman; and (2) without the publication or mailing of any advertisement or written notice indicating any preference or discrimination based on race, color, religion, or national origin. Stipulates that such prohibition shall not preclude the use of attorneys, title companies, or other professional assistance to perfect or transfer title. Includes the handicapped within the groups that may not be discriminated against in housing. Makes it unlawful: (1) for an insurer against hazards to discriminate with regard to such insurance contracts; (2) to refuse to sell or rent (after the making of a bona fide offer) to a handicapped person unless such handicap would present a prospect occupant from conforming to specified non-discriminatory rules and practices; and (3) to discriminate against a handicapped person in the conditions of sale or rental, or in the provision of related services or facilities. Stipulates, with regard to such sales, rental, or related services, that discrimination shall include a refusal to: (1) permit reasonable modification to permit access to the premises; and (2) make reasonable accommodations in policies, services, or facilities to afford handicapped persons equal enjoyment of the premises. Stipulates, with regard to such sales and related services, that discrimination shall not include a refusal to: (1) make alterations at the expense of sellers, landlords, owners, or persons acting on their behalf; (2) modify generally applicable policies, services, or facilities where such modification would unreasonably inconvenience others; or (3) allow architectural modifications which materially alter the intended use of a building or its environs. Makes it unlawful for a State or local government employee or agency to impede the establishment of a dwelling specifically intended for handicapped persons, unless such dwelling: (1) would not comply with Federal, State, or local health or safety regulations; (2) would not comply with Federal or State program standards for services to the handicapped; or (3) would violate a land use plan or zoning ordinance. Makes it unlawful for any person whose business includes the making, buying, or insuring of loans, or selling, brokering, or appraising of real property, to discriminate in the availability or the conditions (amount, interest rate, duration) of such housing-related loans. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to enforce the provisions of such Act upon receiving a written charge filed by an aggrieved party within one year after the alleged discrimination occurred, or upon the Secretary's initiative. Requires the Secretary to notify the party charged with a discriminatory practice within ten days of the filing of such charge. Grants the Secretary authority to subpena necessary information and witnesses, and to issue interrogatories. Establishes penalties of up to $1,000 or one year in prison for willfully failing to testify or produce records, intentionally giving misleading information, or willfully altering any documentary evidence. Directs the Secretary to refer a discriminatory housing charge made within the jurisdiction of a State or local agency to such agency if the agency is certified by the Secretary. Prohibits the certification of such agency unless the Secretary determines that the protections of substantive rights, procedures, remedies, and judicial review are equivalent to those under Federal law. Directs the Secretary and other Federal agencies to cooperate and avoid duplication of efforts. Authorizes the Secretary, on the basis of a preliminary investigation, to refer a charge to the Attorney General in order to get appropriate preliminary relief pending final disposition of such charge. Directs the Secretary, upon a determination that reasonable cause exists to believe a housing discrimination charge is true, to refer the matter to the Attorney General or to file an administrative complaint. Directs the Secretary to provide a copy of such investigation's findings to the parties involved. Sets forth hearing provisions, including: (1) notice of the complaint and opportunity for a hearing not less than 30 days after service of such complaint; (2) rescheduling of such hearing; (3) resolution of a complaint by conciliation; (4) respondent's right to file an answer and testify at such hearing; (5) an aggrieved party's right to intervene; (6) the authority of the person conducting such hearing to make findings of fact and conclusions of law, to issue a final order of relief, and to impose a civil penalty not to exceed $10,000 (provides that no such final order shall affect a bona fide sale, rental, or encumbrance consummated before the issuance of such order); (7) the Secretary's authority to modify any such final order; (8) court of appeals judicial review within 60 days of entry of such order; and (9) a civil penalty of up to $1,000 a day for violation of an unreviewable (as set forth by this Act) final order of the Secretary. Permits aggrieved individuals to commence civil actions within three years of the alleged discriminatory practice. Prohibits proceedings by both the Secretary and the aggrieved individual. Authorizes the Attorney General: (1) to intervene in an aggrieved individual's civil action; and (2) to commence a civil action (a) against a person engaged in a pattern or practice of resistance to these provisions or (b) to enforce the Secretary's findings or orders. Permits the aggrieved individual to intervene in an action commenced by the Attorney General. Allows prevailing parties reasonable attorney and expert witness fees as part of a judicial or administrative award under this Act. Directs the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board to report to the Congress not later than October 1, 1981, concerning: (1) the extent to which architectural barriers and other obstacles to accessibility of housing are operating to deny handicapped persons access to a reasonable housing choice in the private market; (2) the extent to which public, private, or cooperative public and private efforts have been undertaken to increase housing choice for the handicapped in the private market; and (3) the projected cost of retrofitting an adequate supply of existing housing units to make such units suitable for occupancy by handicapped persons. Authorizes appropriations for this Act, effective as of October 1, 1980.
![Official portrait of Rep. Seiberling, John F. [D-OH-14]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/s000230_200.jpg)