United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1974
States that all returns made with respect to taxes imposed under the Internal Revenue Code are confidential and private records; but they may be opened to inspection by the following persons at such times and in such manner as the Commissioner of Internal Revenue by regulation may prescribe: (1) the taxpayer for whom the return was made or his attorney in fact; (2) officers and employees of the Internal Revenue Service, the Department of Justice for tax administration and economic stabilization purposes; (3) shareholders of record owning 1 percent or more of the outstanding stock of any corporation; (4) tax officials of the States; (5) the Committee on Ways and Means of the House of Representatives, the Finance Committee of the Senate, and the Joint Committee on Internal Revenue and Taxation; (6) the Attorney General, Assistant Attorneys General, and United States attorneys; and (7) officers and employees of executive departments and other establishments of the Federal Government upon written request of the head of such department or establishment naming the taxpayer whose return is to be inspected and provided that the inspection is necessary in the enforcement of Federal statutes. States that whenever a return is open to the inspection of any person, a certified copy thereof shall, upon request, be furnished to such person under regulations prescribed by the Commissioner of Internal Revenue who may prescribe a reasonable fee for furnishing such copy. Provides that all regulations issued by the Commissioner of Internal Revenue pursuant to this Act must have written approval of the Chief of Staff of the Joint Committee on Internal Revenue Taxation. States that this Act shall be effective upon enactment. Allows the Commissioner of Internal Revenue a period of ninety days after enactment to issue the regulations required herein.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1974
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that (1) A world without war is possible; (2) In such a world nations will rely for their external protection on world institutions strong enough to stop any nation from making war, capable of assuring peaceful and just settlements of international disputes, and reliable enough to be entrusted with such power; and (3) it is the policy of the United States to initiate and to implement with other nations practical steps consistent with our commitment to the United Nations for the expeditious realization of such institutions.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1974
Makes it the sense of the House that, during the period pending consideration and action by the Senate upon the bill H.R. 10710, as introduced in the first session of the Congress, cited as the "Trade Reform Act of 1973" and as amended and passed by the House, no loan, guarantee, insurance, or credit shall be extended by the Export-Import Bank of the United States to any nonmarket economy country (other than any such country whose products are eligible for column 1 tariff treatment on the date of the enactment of this resolution), and no such country shall participate in any program of the Government of the United States which extends credits or credit guarantees or investment guarantees, directly or indirectly.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1974
States that it is the purpose of this Act to provide for the immediate and future protection and administration of public lands in the California desert within the framework of a program of multiple use, sustained yield, and maintenance of environmental quality. Establishes the California Desert Advisory Commission which shall consist of Federal and State representatives, representatives of the academic community, representatives of residents of the desert, and representatives of groups which make use of the desert and its resources for recreational, study, or business purposes. States that it shall be the function of the Commission to advise the Secretary of the Interior with respect to the program for the desert under this Act. Establishes the National Conservation Area of the California Desert to carry out the purposes of the Act. Gives the Secretary of the Interior responsibility for the preparation of a long-range program for the management, development, and use of the California Desert. Provides that such program shall include a plan, to be completed and reported to Congress within seven years from the date of enactment of this Act. Requires consultation with the Advisory Commission and with State organizations concerning such plan. Provides for an interim program to manage and protect the desert resources now in danger of destruction, and to provide for the public use of the desert. Authorizes the Secretary to acquire such lands or interests therein as he deems necessary to provide access to the facilities of the desert, to facilitate efficient and beneficial management of the desert. Empowers the Secretary to issue such regulations as he deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. Provides that all mining carried out within the conservation area shall be subject to such reasonable regulations as the Secretary may prescribe to carry out the purposes of this Act. States that such regulations shall provide for such measures as may be reasonable to protect the scenic, scientific, and environmental values of the California Desert against undue impairment.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1974
Prescribes a formula, under the Export Administration Act, for the control of wheat, soybean, and corn exports from the United States. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce, to determine for each crop year the amount of wheat, soybeans, and corn needed to meet the requirements of consumers in the United States. States that the Secretary of Agriculture shall then determine the quantity of each crop available for export. Prescribes the procedures for making such determinations. Provides that, upon request by a foreign country, the allocation percentage of wheat, soybeans, and/or corn exports may be increased to such country when the request results from a natural increase in demand which creates a need which is greater than the amount received. Enumerates the procedures to be followed by the Secretary of Commerce in distributing licenses to exporters.
United States · United States Congress · 21 December 1973
Requires the Secretary of Defense to take such action as is necessary to insure that any member of the Armed Forces who is discharged shall receive a discharge certificate which shall indicate that such member was so discharged and which shall not bear any indication of the conditions under which such separation occured. States that the reason why such member was so separated (other than by reason of discharged dismissal pursuant to a sentence of a general or special court-martial) and all other records or documents pertaining to such reason or reasons shall be treated as confidential and shall not be made known to or otherwise released to any private person or any public agency (whether Federal, State, or local) without the prior written consent of the member concerned. Sets forth the conditions under which an enlisted member of the Armed Forces may be discharged under other than honorable conditions. Establishes procedures for military review panels in considering the dishonorable discharge of enlisted personnel. Requires military review panels to conduct hearings which afford the enlisted member concerned an opportunity to: (1) appear before the panel and present evidence in his own behalf; (2) be represented by counsel; (3) confront the witnesses against him; and (4) examine documentary and real evidence against him. States that the recommendation of a review panel appointed under the provisions of this Act for separation under other than honorable conditions may be appealed to an appeal board established by the Judge Advocate General concerned, or the General Counsel of the Department of Transportation, as appropriate. Authorizes the Secretaries concerned to prescribe regulations to carry out the provisions of this Act. Requires the Secretaries concerned, after consultation with the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs, to establish such number (but not less than ten) of regional boards of review throughout the United States. States that the function of the regional boards shall be to reveiw the discharge or dismissal (other than a discharge or dismissal by a general or special court-martial) of any former member of an Armed Forces under the jurisdiction of the military department concerned. Provides that if a request for the review of a discharge or dismissal of any person who was discharged or dismissed from the Armed Forces within the fifteen-year period immediately preceding the effective date of this subsection was filed before such effective date and such review resulted in no change to the discharge or dismissal, or no new discharge was issued, another request for review of that discharge or dismissal pursuant to this section may be filed and such review shall be acted upon without prejudice, if such request for reveiw is filed with the appropriate regional board of review within the one-year period immediately following such effective date.
United States · United States Congress · 21 December 1973
Creates a select committee to be composed of nine Members of the House of Representatives to be appointed by the Speaker, one of whom he shall designate as chairman. Provides that any vacancy occurring in the membership of the committee shall be filled in the same manner in which the original appointment was made. Authorizes the committee to conduct a full and complete investigation and study of the role of the oil and gas industry in contributing to the current energy crisis. States that for the purpose of carrying out this resolution the committee, or any subcommittee thereof authorized by the committee to hold hearings, is authorized to sit and act during the present Congress at such times and places within the United States, including any Commonwealth or possession thereof, whether the House is in session, has recessed, or has adjourned, to hold such hearings, and to require, by subpena or otherwise, the attendance and testimony of such witnesses and the production of such books, records, correspondence, memoranda, papers, and documents, as it deems necessary; except that neither the committee nor any subcommittee thereof may sit while the House is meeting unless special leave to sit shall have been obtained from the House. Provides that subpenas may be issued under the signature of the chairman of the committee or any member of the committee designated by him, and may be served by any person designated by such chairman or member. Directs the committee to report to the House as soon as practicable during the present Congress the results of its investigation and study, together with such recommendations as it deems advisable. States that any such report which is made when the House is not in session shall be filed with the Clerk of the House.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1973
Oil Shale Mining and Energy Corporation Act - Creates the "Oil Shale Mining and Energy Corporation" to establish and administer on Federal land a national program of oil shale exploration and development. Provides that the Corporation shall have a Board of Directors appointed by the President with Senate approval, such board to direct the exercise of all the powers of the Corporation. Provides that the Corporation: (1) may make contracts to carry out its functions under this Act; (2) may purchase, lease, or dispose of such personal property as it deems necessary; (3) shall have the power to exercise the right of eminent domain; (4) shall have such power as may be necessary for the exercise of the powers specifically conferred in this Act; (5)shall have the power to acquire or dispose of real property except for oil or gas exploration and development; (6) shall have the power to explore for oil shale on Federal lands, to develop and sell oil and gas and other oil shale products produced on Federal lands, and to build and operate all those facilities necessary for the development or sales of such resources, as authorized by this Act; (7) shall have the power to explore, develop, acquire or sell oil and gas and other oil shale products alone or on a joint or cooperative basis with any private or public entity; (8) shall have the power to engage in research directed toward the development and utilization of oil shale deposits on Federal lands, and may build, own, and operate research testing, or demonstration facilities, alone or on a joint or cooperative basis with any private or other public entity; (9) shall have the power to obtain and operate facilities necessary for the production, sale, transportation, or delivery of oil, gas, or other shale products; and (10) shall have the power to sell commercially valuable minerals which may be obtained incidental to the production of oil shale products on Federal lands. Authorizes the President of the United States to transfer to the Corporation the use, posession, and control of such other Federal land or personal property of the United States as he may from time to time deem necessary. Specifies, with respect to the Corporation, procedures for maintaining accounts, entering into contracts, and providing annual financial statements and reports. Provides for audit, by the Comptroller General, of the transactions of the Corporation. Authorizes the Corporation to lease, purchase, or construct transmission pipelines within transmission distance from the place where oil and gas products from oil shale on Federal lands are produced and to interconnect with other systems. Authorizes and directs the Board of Directors of the Corporation, in order to render financial assistance to States and local governments within whose jurisdiction the Corporation has acquired properties previously subject to State and local taxation, to pay to such State and local governments percentages of the gross proceeds derived from the operation of the Corporation. Provides that such payments are in lieu of taxation and that the Corporation, its property, franchises, and income are expressly exempted from taxation in any manner by any State or local government. Authorizes the Corporation to issue and sell bonds, notes, and other evidences of indebtedness in order to assist in financing its oil shale resources exploration and development program and to Fund such bonds. Provides criteria for setting of rates for sale of oil shale products by the Corporation. Provides that all net proceeds (over expenses) of the Corporation for each fiscal year shall be deposited in the American Indian Fund, such Fund to be created in the Treasury of the United States. Provides for the allocation of such Fund to eligible Indian tribes by the Secretary of Interior under the State and Local Fiscal Assistance Act. Directs that, prior to the initiation of any program of exploration or the construction of any major facility under this Act, the Corporation shall prepare an environmental impact statement pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act, such statement to be made public. Provides that hearings be held to allow interested persons to submit comments on the statement. Prohibits the Corporation from using surface mining techniques for the exploration or development of oil shale resources. Authorizes the appropriation to the Corporation for each fiscal year all sums necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1973
Freedom of Information Act Security Classification Amendments - Sets forth statutory provisions governing the administration of the Security Classsification System under the Freedom of Information Act. Establishes an independent Classification Review Commission, with regulatory and quasi-adjudicatory authority over the administration of the Security Classification System. Provides the Commission with responsibility for settling disputes between the Congress and the Executive branch over access to classified information requested by a majority of either House of Congress, by Congressional committees, or by the Comptroller General of the United States. States that decisions of the Commission in this field are subject to judicial review. Limits the authority of executive departments, agencies, and officials to classify documents. Provides for automatic declassification after 15 years of national defense information previously classified. Limits the classification period for "Top Secret" documents and information to three years, except for a category of highly sensitive national defense information. Provides for enforcement mechanisms to prevent classification of documents to hide incompetence, inefficiency, wrong doing, or embarrassment. (Amends 5 U.S.C. 552(d))
United States · United States Congress · 13 December 1973
Authorizes increased production of petroleum from the Elk Hills Naval Petroleum Reserve at a rate to help insure that the needs of national defense are met, but not to exceed the maximum efficient rate in accordance with sound engineering and economic principles. Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to dispose of the production herein authorized by means of sales effected by competitive bid. Provides that full and equal opportunity for acquisition of the oil shall be accorded to all interested companies, including major and independent oil refineries alike. Establishes the Naval Petroleum Reserve Account. States that funds in the Account shall be available for the expenses of: (1) production, including preparation for production, as authorized by this resolution and as may hereafter be authorized; (2) all capital costs necessary for facilities both within and outside the reserve incident to production and delivery of crude petroleum; and (3) exploration, prospecting, conservation, development, use, and operation of the naval petroleum and oil shale reserves.
United States · United States Congress · 13 December 1973
Provides that any renewal of United States military involvement in Southeast Asis will constitute a gross abuse of Presidential powers raising grave questions under Article II, Section 4, of the United States Constitution.
United States · United States Congress · 12 December 1973
Homeowner's Energy Conservation Act - Establishes in the Department of Housing and Urban Development a direct low-interest loan program to assist homeowners and other owners of residential structures in purchasing and installing more effective insulation and heating equipment. Authorizes the appropriation of $10,000,000 to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 12 December 1973
Provides an income tax deduction for expenditures made for more effective insulation and heating equipment in residential structures. Defines qualified insulative materials and heating equipment.
United States · United States Congress · 12 December 1973
Directs that the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, in prescribing standards for skilled nursing facilities and intermediate care facilities under the Social Security Act, shall require that such facilities adopt and make public a statement of the rights and responsibilities of the patients in such facilities and treat their patients in accordance with the provisions of such public statement. Enumerates the guarantees of rights which must be included in such statements. Provides that each facility make available a copy of the statement to each patient and provide appropriate staff training to implement each patient's right included in the statement.
United States · United States Congress · 5 December 1973
National Energy Emergency Act - Title I: Statement of Findings and Purposes - Sets forth the determination of Congress that there is currently an energy shortage in the United States and enumerates the purposes of this Act. Title II: Emergency Fuel Shortage Contingency Programs - Declares that current and imminent fuel shortages have created a nationwide energy emergency. Authorizes the President, for the duration of the energy emergency, to enter into appropriate agreements with foreign states, foreign nationals, or international organizations to adjust and allocate imports of fossil fuels. Provides that any such formal agreement shall not become final until the Senate has had fifteen days to disapprove of such agreement. Provides that the declared nationwide energy emergency and the authority granted by this Act shall terminate one year after the date of enactment of this Act unless extended by Congress. Sets forth limitations for the export of domestically mined coal during the term of any energy emergency declared by or under this Act. Revises the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act by directing the President to provide for an ordering of priorities among users of crude oil, residual fuel oil, or any refined petroleum product and to assign to such users rights entitling them to obtain any such oil or product in precedence to other users not similarly entitled, if the President finds that such action is necessary. Authorizes the President to require adjustments in the production rates of refineries in the United States whenever he finds that such adjustments are necessary to assure the production of residual fuel oil and refined petroleum products in such proportions necessary to meet the priorities for use of such products established under the Energency Petroleum Allocation Act. Directs the President to propose one or more energy conservation plans within thirty days of enactment of this Act which will result in a reduction of energy consumption to a level which can be supplied by available energy resources.
United States · United States Congress · 4 December 1973
Establishes the Energy Development and Supply Commission to be composed of five members. Prohibits service on the Commission of any individual who has at any time been affiliated with or has held pecuniary interest in any energy production or distribution industry or transportation industry. Requires members to have experience and competence regarding the environment and its protection, consumer protection, and energy-related research and development. Directs the Commission to maintain research and development programs to: (1) develop low-cost, environmentally sound energy sources and energy generation, transmission, and distribution processes for transportation, industrial, and residential use, and other areas, with primary emphasis on the development of all aspects of solar energy sources; (2) develop processes and techniques of energy conservation for use in construction, transportation, and in the manufacture of consumer and capital goods; and (3) develop new fuels for self-propelled vehicles, and, with respect to such vehicles, alternatives to the internal combustion engine. Orders the Commission to establish and maintain national defense petroleum reserves on public lands of the United States which shall have a petroleum-producing capacity sufficient to protect the United States against a continuous one-year interruption of importation of petroleum. Directs the Commission to prepare annually an inventory of mineral deposits in the Nation and to submit such inventory to the Atomic Energy Commission, the Federal Power Commission, and the Secretary of the Interior in order to promote coordination among them regarding energy planning. States that any prospector, mine operator, or well operator who makes any discovery of any substantial mineral deposit shall file a report with the Commission setting forth: (1) the type of mineral, the estimated volume of the deposit, and the estimated quality of the unprocessed mineral; and (2) the location of the deposit. Directs the Commission to prepare: (1) a report, from time to time for submission to the Attorney General of the United States, recommending action to preserve competition among businesses engaged in the production of coal, oil, natural gas, or uranium; and (2) a report, to be submitted annually to the Congress, setting forth information regarding the supply of mineral deposits discovered during the preceding calendar year, and the estimate of the Commission of the total remaining mineral reserves of the Nation by categories. Imposes taxes of 1/10 of 1 cent per kilowatt of electricity; 10 cents per thousand cuubic feet of natural gas; and 1/2 cent per gallon of special distillate and residual fuel sold or otherwise transferred to any person for his own consumption. Increases the gas tax from 4 to 8 cents per gallon. Establishes in the Treasury the Energy Development and Supply Trust Fund. Authorizes appropriation of necessary sums to the fund to carry out this Act. States that this Act shall cease to have effect on September 30, 1986.
United States · United States Congress · 3 December 1973
Authorizes and directs the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Secretary of Transportation to jointly conduct studies to determine the feasibility and desirability of establishing national scenic bicycle trails along United States Highways number 1, 30 and 101. Directs that these studies be submitted to the President and Congress including recommendations as to such actions which should be taken with respect to the establishment of such trails.
United States · United States Congress · 3 December 1973
Solar Energy Act - Requires that the Secretary of Commerce shall conduct research into how solar energy can be used to heat and cool buildings and shall collect appropriate weather data for the various climatic regions of the United States for the purpose of determining the extent to which reliance upon solar energy is feasible in each region. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop and test new building designs and construction methods which involve the utilization of solar energy equipment; and (2) prescribe standards and specifications for such building designs and construction methods. States that in determining the maximum dollar amount of a mortgage which may be insured under the National Housing Act, with respect to any dwelling or residence which involves a building design or construction methods which meet the standards prescribed by the Secretary, he may increase the maximum amount of a mortgage which may be insured with respect to such dwelling or residence by the amount by which the cost of using such building design or construction methods exceeds the cost of using conventional building design and construction methods.
United States · United States Congress · 3 December 1973
Directs the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to develop ground propulsion systems which are energy conserving, have clean emission characteristics, and are capable of being produced in large numbers at a reasonable mass production per unit cost. Requires that such ground propulsion systems must meet or better all air quality standards set by or under the National Emission Standards Act, the Clean Air Act, and the Air Quality Act of 1967, while substantially reducing per mile energy comsumption. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act not to exceed $30,000,000 in the aggregate for the fiscal years 1974 through 1977.
United States · United States Congress · 30 November 1973
Requires that all contracts by the United States Government for services and materials and all contracts financed by Federal funds shall be awarded to the lowest qualified bidder, including contracts for architectural and engineering work.
United States · United States Congress · 28 November 1973
Carpool Service Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make grants and provide technical assistance to units of general local government to implement programs which are designed to increase the use of carpools by commuters.
United States · United States Congress · 26 November 1973
Freedom of Access for the Elderly and Handicapped Act - Allows, under the Internal Revenue Code, a deduction for expenditures to remove architectural and transportation barriers to the handicapped and elderly. (Adds 26 U.S.C. 189)
United States · United States Congress · 15 November 1973
Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act - Title I: Findings and Purposes - Declares that most of the nation's coal reserves can only be mined by underground methods. States that the purpose of the Act is to establish a nationwide program to prevent the adverse effects to society and the environment from surface coal mining. Title II: Control of Environmental Impacts of Surface Coal Mining - Requires surface coal mining operations to comply with the following requirements: (1) on steep slopes no debris or soil may be placed on the downslope, except soil from the initial cut, provided that the soil is shaped and graded to prevent slides, erosion, and water pollution, and is revegetated; (2) preservation of topsoil after excavation; (3) stabilization of mine wastes, including safety in retention of water wastes; and (4) minimal disturbance of the hydrologic balance at the minesite. Requires compliance with such standards 90 days after enactment for mines where overburden hasn't been removed. Requires, within 150 days of enactment, Federal enforcement of such standards until State standards are accepted, such enforcement to include mine inspection. Directs publication within 180 days of enactment of regulations covering surface coal mining and reclamation, setting standards for State programs. States that such regulations must meet approval of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator. Requires States, within 24 months of enactment, to submit programs for carrying out this Act, such programs to include a State regulatory authority capable of regulating surface coal mining, state laws providing for sanctions for violations of regulations, and a permit system for surface coal mining regulation. Demands that such State programs meet the approval of the EPA Administrator. Subjects State programs to approval of Secretary of Interior within 6 months. Requires implementation of a Federal program of surface coal mining regulation where States fail in such implementation. Directs States to designate as unsuitable for surface coal mining those areas where reclamation is impossible or where land is fragile or of historical value. Prohibits existing mining operations from being declared unsuitable. Permits State laws and regulations that are more stringent than this Act. Requires, six months after approval of a State program, that no surface coal mining shall take place except where a permit, good for five years, has been issued. States that permit applications must demonstrate ability and intent to comply with this Act, assurance that reclamation can be achieved, and that post-mining land use will be compatible with surrounding uses; and that permits won't be issued for land within 300 feet of occupied dwelling or within a park. Requires permit applications to describe the method of mining and equipment proposed to be used, to describe by maps the land to be affected, and to contain a statement of results of test borings or core samplings of the affected land. States that permits must be accompanied by a mining and reclamation plan which shall include a description of present uses of the land, steps to be taken to prevent environmental damage, and a description of the reclamation activities. Allows renewal of permits. Establishes general performance standards requiring: (1) extraction of coal sufficient to prevent future need for re-excavating the land; (2) restoration of the land to a condition to which it can support previous uses; (3) keeping reclamation current with mining operations; (4) restoration of approximate original contour of the land; (5) safety measures in dam construction and non-degradation of water quality in streams below dams; (6) restoration of topsoil and vegetation; and (7) limitations and mandatory notices on use of explosives. Differentiates standards for steep-slope and flat terrain mining. Authorizes only one-year permits for steep-slope mining. Allows exceptions to reclamation standards where a post mining use of the land differs from previous use, is appropriate, and begins within three years. Calls for regulations of underground coal mining that requires: (1) backfilling all mine wastes and tailings into mine voids, where possible; (2) permanent underground mine support; (3) sealing of entrances; (4) contouring and revegetation of wastes and tailings; and (5) safety standards in dam construction. Directs mine operators to have remedial programs to eliminate polluting discharge. Requires permit applicants to give notice to public bodies in the local area of their plans, and for such bodies to make public their comments. Gives any person with a valid legal interest the right to object to a proposed surface mining and reclamation operation. Allows public hearings on such objections. Establishes procedures for such hearings. Demands that permit applicants, whose permits have been approved, post performance bonds to assure that the requirements of this Act are met. States that such bonds shall not be less than $10,000. Provides that when an operator completes the backfilling, regrading, and drainage control of a bonded area, he may request a release of 60 percent of the bond. Provides that the remaining amount may be returned upon completion of all reclamation. Allows persons with a legal interest to file objections to release of bond, and for public hearings to follow. Prohibits suspension or revocation of a permit except with time for permitee to correct his violations and public hearing, if requested, provided that emergency threats to public health or the environment may justify suspension of permit subject to determination later if violation has occurred. Directs and authorizes inspection of surface coal mining and reclamation to determine compliance with this Act and regulations. Provides for requirement of record keeping and submittal and monitoring by mine operators. Requires surprise inspections by regulatory agencies not less than once a month. Allows, where State regulatory authorities don't exist or fail to act, for Federal enforcement of violations of this Act and of permit conditions. Permits issuance of an order to cease mining and reclamation. Provides for the Attorney General to institute civil suit for a restraining order or injunction to enforce this Act or regulations under it. Requires civil penalties upon violators of this Act or regulations under it. Permits any person to bring civil suit against any person, including the United States, alleged to be in violation of this Act. Empowers district courts to require the regulatory authority to enforce nondiscretionary duties under the Act. Allows the court to award costs of litigation to parties in suits brought under this Act. Permits the Secretary to intervene in actions under this Act. Requires implementation of a Federal lands program to all surface mining and reclamation operations on Federal land. Requires such program to, at least, adopt all requirements of this Act. Authorizes grants to Indian tribes to assist in development and administration of a mining control program for tribal lands. Allows an Indian tribe to have the Secretary administer its program under this Act. Demands separate regulations for programs for special bituminous coal surface mines that meet certain criteria, including some long-existing and especially deep mines. Title III: Abandoned Mine Reclamation - Creates the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund in the Treasury. Authorizes use of money in the Fund for acquisition and reclamation of abandoned and unreclaimed mined lands, for acquisitions and fillings of voids and sealing of tunnels and entryways in abandoned mines, and for the Secretary of Agriculture to use in entering agreements with landowners and tenants providing for control and prevention of erosion. Permits the Secretary to acquire land by condemnation for reclamation. Encourages States to acquire abandoned and unreclaimed land and to transfer it the Secretary for reclamation, and authorizes matching grants for such purpose, up to 90 percent of land price. Allows resale of reclaimed land by public bidding, and allows local public participation in determining use of reclaimed land. Title IV: Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement - Establishes in the Interior Department the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement with a director appointed by the President. States that such office shall administer the programs required by this Act and assist the States in development of State programs for surface coal mining and reclamation. Title V: A Program for Non-Coal Mine Environmental Impact Control - Requires States to implement programs for designation of lands unsuitable for mining minerals other than coal. Title VI: Appropriation Authorization; Definitions; and General Provisions - Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act, as follows: $10,000,000 for various contract authority immediately and for the next two fiscal years; for administrative and other purposes, $10,000,000 for fiscal 1975, $20,000,000 for fiscal 1976 and 1977, and $30,000,000 for fiscal years thereafter; $40,000,000 initially to the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund; and for research and demonstration projects, $5,000,000 for fiscal 1975 and for each fiscal year thereafter. Authorizes grants to States for developing, administering, and enforcing State programs under this Act. Gives the President power to suspend for 90 days any requirement of this Act concerning surface mining reclamation operations if a national emergency exists. Requires written permission of landowners, where different from underlying mineral owners, to mine or reclaim land. Title VII: State Mining and Mineral Resources Research Institute - Authorizes appropriation to the Secretary of the Interior sums adequate to provide for each participating State $200,000 for fiscal year 1975, $300,000 for fiscal year 1976, and $400,000 for each fiscal year thereafter for five years, to assist the States in carrying on the work of a competent and qualified mining and mineral resources research institute, center, or equivalent agency at the school of mines of one public college or university of the State. Requires such monies to be matched dollar for dollar by the States. Authorizes appropriation each year of $5,000,000 for the next seven fiscal years for specific projects in such institutes. Authorizes appropriation of $10,000,000 for fiscal 1975 and a sum increased by $2,000,000 each fiscal year thereafter for grants and contracts for other research into aspects of mining and mineral resources problems. Calls for the Secretary to appoint an advisory Committee on Mining and Mineral Research to advise him on all matters concerning mining and mineral resources research.
United States · United States Congress · 15 November 1973
Rape Prevention and Control Act - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish, within the National Institute of Mental Health, the National Center for the Control and Prevention of Rape. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Center, to conduct a continuing study and investigation of specified areas, including: (1) the effectiveness of existing Federal, State and local laws dealing with rape; (2) the relationship, if any, between traditional legal and social attitudes toward sexual roles, the act of rape, and the formulation of laws dealing with rape; (3) the treatment of the victims of rape by law enforcement agencies, hospitals, or other medical institutions, prosecutors, and the courts; (4) the causes of rape; and (5) sexual assaults in correctional institutions. Provides that the Center shall compile and publish annually a summary of its findings. Directs the Center to develop an information clearinghouse with regard to enumerated materials regarding rape and rehabilitation of offenders. Authorizes appropriations of such sums as may be necessary for carrying out the purposes of this Act. Provides that the Secretary, through the National Center for the Control and Prevention of Rape, shall make grants to community mental health centers, nonprofit private organizations, and public agencies for the purpose of conducting research and demonstration projects concerning the control and prevention of rape. Authorizes appropriations for such purposes. Requires the Secretary to establish an advisory committee to advise, consult with, and make recommendations to him on matters relating to rape prevention and control.
United States · United States Congress · 15 November 1973
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Geneva Protocal of 1925 should be immediately ratified and that a comprehensive review of this Nation's national security and international policies regarding chemical warfare should be undertaken.
United States · United States Congress · 14 November 1973
States that under the Medicare provisions of the Social Security Act the inpatient hospital deductible shall be $72 in the case of any spell of illness beginning before 1975. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to, between July 1 and October 1 of 1974, and of each year thereafter, determine and promulgate the inpatient hospital deductible which shall be applicable in the case of any spell of illness beginning during the succeeding calendar year. Provides that such inpatient hospital deductible shall be equal to $72 multiplied by the ratio of (A) the current average per diem rate for inpatient hospital services for the calendar year preceeding the promulgation, or (B) the current average per diem rate for such services for 1972.
United States · United States Congress · 14 November 1973
Escrow Account System Improvement Act - States that it is the purpose of this Act, recognizing that the escrow system is a valuable asset to borrowers, lenders, and local taxing authorities alike, to preserve and strengthen such system to the maximum extent possible while eliminating the inequities and abuses which have too often kept it from being fully effective. Requires an escrow account to be established in connection with any federally related mortgage loan if, at the time the loan is made or at any time thereafter, either the borrower or the lender requests it. States that any such account shall be continuously maintained (without any right on the part of the borrower to withdraw any part thereof) until the borrower has fully discharged his obligation under the loan. Provides that whenever the borrower in connection with a federally related mortgage loan has acquired an equity of at least 20 percent in the property covered by the loan and enters into an agreement to maintain a savings account with a balance equal to assessments, and hazard insurance premiums: (1) the lender shall no longer have the right to require the establishment of an escrow account in connection with such loan, and (2) the borrower shall have the right to terminate any escrow account theretofore established in connection with such loan. States that on each deposit in an escrow account which is made, in connection with a federally related mortgage loan, to a bank, interest shall be paid from the date of deposit to the date of withdrawal at a rate not less than the rate then prevailing for loans by Federal Reserve banks to member banks in the district where the property involved is situated. Sets forth limitations on requirements by lenders of advance deposits in escrow accounts of taxes and insurance premiums. Provides that payments of taxes and insurance premiums by the lender from any escrow account in connection with a federally related mortgage loan shall be made at such times and in such manner as will insure that the borrowers receive the maximum benefit of any discounts and other financial considerations which may be allowed or provided in the jurisdiction where the escrow account is being held.
United States · United States Congress · 13 November 1973
Solar Heating and Cooling Demonstration Act - Declares it to be the policy of the United States and the purpose of this Act to provide for the demonstration within a three-year period of the practical use of solar heating technology. Defines the terms used in this Act. Directs the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to initiate, support and carry out basic and applied research and development in solar heating and cooling technologies. Provides for the installation of solar heating systems in residential dwellings under the monitoring of the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the National Bureau of Standards and in consultation with the Secretaries of Housing and Urban Development and Defense. Provides that such residential dwellings shall be located in a sufficient number of different geographic areas (not less than three) in the United States to assure a realistic and effective demonstration of solar heating and cooling systems involved. Directs the Director of the National Science Foundation to initiate, support and fund basic and applied research activities related to solar energy in support of the objectives of this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of up to $50,000,000 to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 November 1973
Commodities Exchange Commission Act - Establishes a Commodity Exchange Commission, composed of five commissioners appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, as an independent agency in the executive branch of the Government. Transfers specified functions from the Secretary of Agriculture to the Commission and delegates enumerated housekeeping functions to the Chairman. Authorizes the employment of persons without regard to Civil Service laws. Provides, with regard to rules governing registration of Commission merchants and brokers, that if after requesting a contract market to make specified changes in its rules and practices, the contract market has not made the changes, the Commission may order the contract market to alter the rules of such contract market as necessary to effect changes in specified areas. Requires that contract markets serve an economic purpose. Prohibits orders by futures commission merchants for their own accounts. States that no member of a contract market shall execute any order for future delivery and on the same intentionally enter into any transaction for future delivery in such commodity for any account in which such member has trading discretion, with specified exceptions. Provides that if any contract market, director, officer or agent is not enforcing or is violating any of the provisions of this Act, the Commission may enter an order directing that such contract market, director, officer, agent, or employee cease and desist from such violation and assess a civil penalty of not more than $100,000 for each such violation. Increases the amount of specific penalties for violations of this Act. Empowers the Commission with injunctive authority to restrain potential violations of this Act. Penalizes, with treble damages, the use of confidential information in violation of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 November 1973
Public Safety Officers Benefits Act - Provides that in any case in which the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration determines that an eligible public safety officer has died as the direct and proximate result of a personal injury sustained in the performance of duty, leaving a spouse or one or more eligible dependents, the Administration shall pay a gratuity of $50,000. States the order of precedence for the payment of the gratuity to dependents. Excludes the payment of benefits if death was caused intentionally or by intentional misconduct or by an individual who would otherwise be entitled to the death benefits. Authorizes the appropriation in each fiscal year of such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 November 1973
Election Campaign Espionage Act - Provides that whoever, being an employee of any candidate or political committee, provides any personal service to any other candidate or any political committee supporting any other candidate, with the intent of interfering with any election activity, shall be fined not more than $10,000 or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both. States that whoever uses any contribution or campaign funds to aid in the commission of any offense against the United States or any State, shall be fined not more than $10,000 or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both. Penalizes the concealment of violations of this Act. (Adds 18 U.S.C. 614)
United States · United States Congress · 30 October 1973
Social Services Amendments - Outlines the objectives to be achieved under this Act, including: (1) the goal of self-support; (2) the goal of family care or self-care; (3) the goal of community-based care; and (4) the institutional care goal. Provides, under the Social Security Act, for maximum freedom for each State to determine which services will be made available, the persons eligible for such services, the manner in which such services are provided, and any limitations on the receipt of such services. Requires that social services to be offered at the option of the States to all eligible persons shall include: (1) day care services for children; (2) day care services for children with special needs; (3) service for children in foster care; (4) protective services for children; (5) family planning services; (6) protective services for adults; (7) services for adults in foster care; (8) homemaker services for individuals in their own homes; (9) chore services; (10) home delivered or congregate meals; (11) day care services for adults; (12) health related services; (13) home management and other functional education services; (14) housing improvement services; (15) a full range of legal services; (16) transportation services necessary to travel to and from community facilities or resources for receipt of services; (17) educational and training services; (18) employment services; (19) information, referral, and determination of eligibility and the need for services, without regard to individual eligibility criteria; (20) special services for the mentally retarded, or special adaptations of generic services; (21) special services for the blind; (22) services for alcoholism and drug addiction; (23) special services for the emotionally disturbed as defined by the State; (24) special services for the physically handicapped as defined by the State; and (25) any other proposed services at the request of a State. Provides that States are entitled to Federal financial participation for the delivery of mandatory and optional social services under the State plan to the extent of the appropriations allocated by the Congress. Requires that State plans submitted with respect to the services program shall contain a provision for a fair hearing, under which applicants and recipients may appeal exclusion from a service program. Provides that State plans shall provide for the establishment of a social services advisory committee, to include members representative of recipients of such services.
United States · United States Congress · 29 October 1973
Authorizes the President to call a White House Conference on the Handicapped within two years of enactment in order to develop recommendations for further research and action in the field of the handicapped, and to further the policies set forth in this joint resolution. Provides that such conference shall be planned and conducted under the direction of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare with the cooperation and assistance of such other Federal departments and agencies, including the assignment of personnel, as may be appropriate. Require a final report of the White House Conference on the Handicapped to be submitted to the President not later than 120 days following the date on which the conference is called, and the findings and recommendations included therein to be made available immediately to the public. Requires the Secretary, within 90 days after the submission of such report, to transmit to the President and the Congress his recommendations for the administrative action and legislation necessary to implement the recommendations contained in such report. Gives the Secretary administrative powers to carry out this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish an Advisory Committee on the White House Conference on the Handicapped composed of 28 members, of whom not less than 15 shall be handicapped or parents of handicapped persons. Provides that such Advisory Committee shall cease to exist 90 days after the submission of the final report required by this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated $2,000,000 to carry out this joint resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 25 October 1973
Authorizes appropriations of $150,000,000, $175,000,000, and $200,000,000 for fiscal years 1975-1977, respectively for the nutrition program for the aged under title VII of the Older American Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 October 1973
Provides that, notwithstanding the requirements of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended, applications for grants for construction of treatment works under such Act may be filed with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency until December 31, 1973. States that funds available for reimbursement shall be allocated pro rata among all eligible projects for which applications have been submitted and approved by the Administrator. Increases the amount available for reimbursement from $2,000,000,000 to $2,600,000,000. Requires that in no event shall any payment exceed the Federal share of the cost of construction incurred to the date of the voucher covering such payment plus the Federal share of the value of the materials which have been stockpiled in the vicinity of such construction in conformance to plans and specifications for the project.
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1973
Provides that no funds appropriated under any Act or continuing resolution of the Congress shall be expended on any property that is not under the legal or equitable ownership of control of the United States Government and such property is used as a residence, temporary or other, by any individual whom the Secret Service is authorized to protect. Provides that, the Administrator of the General Services Administration, after a request from or after consultation with the Secret Service, may make certain expenditures on private property for the protection of qualified individuals, if the Administrator presents such expenditures to both Houses of Congress on the same day and to each House while they are in session, and that neither House disapproves of the expenditure within thirty days after delivery.
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1973
Permits loans under the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to a rural investment company where the proceeds of the loan are to be used to purchase loans or participations in loans guaranteed under such Act or guaranteed by an agency of the United States if such loans were made for purposes for which loans could have been made under such Act to the borrowers.
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1973
Special Prosecution Conservancy Act - Vests the Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia with supervisory jurisdiction to issue and enforce all orders necessary and appropriate to insure the integrity and inviolability of all files, notes, correspondence, memoranda, documents, physical evidence, and other records and work product compiled, obtained, or otherwise produced and maintained by the office of Special Prosecutor from the date of assumption of that office on May 24, 1973, until the appointment of a successor Special Prosecutor pursuant to this Act. Vests the Chief Judge of the United States District Court with authority to appoint a Special Prosecutor for the purposes and with the powers set forth in this Act, and to replace such officer only for extraordinary improprieties in the exercise of his responsibilities. Sets forth the authority and responsibilities of the Special Prosecutor. States that the prosecutor shall have exclusive authority to conduct all grand jury presentments and all other criminal proceedings arising from the following acts or transactions: (1) offenses arising out of the unauthorized entry into Democratic National Committee Headquarters at the Watergate; (2) offenses arising out of the 1972 Presidential election; (3) allegations of criminal offenses involving the President, members of the White House Staff, or other Presidential appointees; and (4) such other matters as bear a relation to the foregoing and which the Special Prosecutor consents to accept. Sets forth powers of the Special Prosecutor, including: (1) the power to determine whether and how far to contest the assertion of executive privilege or any other testimonial or evidentiary privilege, and (2) the power to decide whether or not to prosecute any person and how to conduct and argue any appeals or petitions arising out of his prosecutorial activities. Authorizes the United States District Court for the District of Columbia to extend the term of the Grand Jury of that Court which was impaneled on June 5, 1972, for additional periods of six months, until the court determines that the business of that Grand Jury has been completed. Authorizes to be appropriated to the office of the Special Prosecutor such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1973
Directs the Committee on the judiciary to undertake an investigation of the activities of Richard M. Nixon, President of the United States, in order to ascertain all facts concerning the possible commission of high crimes and misdeameanors, and to report to the House its recommendations with respect thereto, including, if the committee so determines, a resolution of impeachment.
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1973
Directs the Committee on the Judiciary to inquire into and investigate whether grounds exist for the impeachment of Richard M. Nixon, and to report its findings to the House with such resolutions or articles of impeachment deemed proper.
United States · United States Congress · 18 October 1973
States that, 90 days following enactment of this Act, amounts deposited in financial institutions in tax and loan accounts shall bear interest at the Federal funds interest rate.
United States · United States Congress · 18 October 1973
Constitutional Amendment. Provides that neither the United States nor any State shall deprive any human being of life on account of illness, age, or incapacity.
United States · United States Congress · 18 October 1973
Declares it to be the sense of the House that the President, acting in accordance with the announced policy of the United States Government to maintain Israel's deterrent strength, and under existing authority, should continue to transfer to Israel the Phantom aircraft and other equipment in the quantities needed by Israel to repel the attack and to offset the military equipment and supplies furnished to the Arab States by the Soviet Union.
United States · United States Congress · 18 October 1973
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should: (1) seek to bring about an immediate cessation of hostilities in the Middle East; (2) begin negotiations as soon as possible with countries supplying arms to the Middle East to seek an Arms Limitation Treaty; (3) work to end United States dependence on Arab oil; and (4) expedite the delivery of weapons already purchased by Israel but not yet delivered from the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 12 October 1973
Right to Financial Privacy Act - States that the purposes of this Act are to protect and preserve the confidential relationship between financial institutions and their customers and the constitutional rights of those customers, and to promote commerce by prescribing policies and procedures to insure that customers have the same right to protect against unwarranted disclosure of customer records as if the records were in their possession. Prohibits any Federal agency or employee, or any State or local government from obtaining copies of, access to, or the information contained in, the financial records of any customer from a financial institution unless the financial records are described with particularity and : (1) such customer has authorized such disclosure in accordance with this Act; (2) such financial records are disclosed in response to an administrative subpena or summons; (3) such financial records are disclosed in response to a court order; or (4) such financial records are disclosed in response to a judicial subpena. States that no financial institution may provide to a Federal agency or employee, or to any State or local government, copies of or the information contained in the financial records of any customer except in accordance with the requirements of this Act. Provides that a customer may authorize disclosure if he or those seeking disclosure furnish to the financial institution a signed and dated statement by which the customer: (1) authorizes such disclosure for a period not in excess of one year; (2) identifies the financial records which are authorized to be disclosed; and (3) specifies the purposes for which, and the agencies to which, such records may be disclosed. Requires the financial institution to keep a record of all examinations of the customer's financial records and to notify the customer that he has the right at any time to revoke any authorization of disclosure and to obtain a copy of the aforementioned record of examinations. Sets forth provisions governing customer authorization, administrative subpenas and summons, and judicial subpenas. Prohibits the Secretary of the Treasury from requiring an institution to maintain financial records or to transmit reports on customers, unless such records are required by a supervisory agency or the Internal Revenue Service. Prescribes civil and criminal penalties for violation of the provisions of this Act. Provides for injunctive relief for persons aggrieved by violation or threatened violation of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 12 October 1973
Vietnam Era Veterans and Dependents Psychological Readjustment Assistance Act - Directs the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to initiate and carry out a special psychiatric, psychological, and counseling program for veterans of the Vietnam era, especially former prisoners of war and their dependents who are experiencing psychological problems as the result of the military service performed by such veterans. Provides that the participation of any veteran or dependent in such program shall be wholly voluntary and shall not be a prerequisite to eligibility for any other service or assistance. (Adds 38 U.S.C. 620A).
United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1973
States that regulations of the Environmental Protection Agency under section 206 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended, be set aside in order to provide equitable funding for all publicly owned sewage treatment works constructed during the period from June 30, 1966, through July 1, 1972, regardless of whether such works received any Federal assistance at the time of construction, were eligible for Federal incentive grants, or were supported in whole or in part by a State matching grant or loan program.
United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1973
States that, 90 days following enactment of this Act, amounts deposited in financial institutions in tax and loan accounts shall bear interest at the Federal funds interest rate.
![Official portrait of Rep. Seiberling, John F. [D-OH-14]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/s000230_200.jpg)