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Rep. Shannon, James M. [D-MA-5]

United States · Official source

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518 records where Rep. Shannon, James M. [D-MA-5] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Bill· HRH.R. 6436 (98th)referred

Tax Equity and Efficiency Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1984

Tax Equity and Efficiency Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise the accelerated cost recovery system (ACRS) for the depreciation of certain property used in a trade or business or held for the production of income. Allows an income tax deduction for the expense of recovery property in the year recovery property is purchased. (Current law requires that such deduction be taken over a specified number of years.) Bases the amount of such deduction on the present value (using a discount rate of 6.06 percent) of the depreciation deductions which would have been allowable under the straight-line method for an asset having an economic life equal to the average economic life of property in its class. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to prescribe regulations assigning recovery property to one of 35 specified classes. Revises the method for calculating the investment tax credit to allow such credit in an amount equal to six percent of the nonexpensed qualified investment. Allows a corporate shareholder an income tax credit based on the amount of dividends received by such taxpayer during the taxable year. Sets forth the method for calculating the amount of such credit. Treats a corporate shareholder as having received distributions taxable as dividends in an amount equal to the shareholder's pro rata share of the undistributed earnings and profits of the corporation. Sets forth the method for calculating undistributed earnings and profits of a corporation. Provides that the amount of any dividend received by a shareholder shall be increased by the amount of the shareholder income tax credit. Sets forth special rules for the allocation of a corporation's earnings and profits in the case of actual distributions and losses. Sets forth rules for the treatment of shareholder income tax credits received by corporations.

Bill· HRH.R. 6315 (98th)referred

A bill to prohibit the issuance in bearer form of Treasury obligations or of securities which are interests in Treasury obligations, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 1984

Requires that every obligation of the United States be issued in registered form. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to prohibit the issuance in bearer form of securities which are interests in U.S. Government-backed securities. Imposes a three percent excise tax on the issuer of registration-required U.S. Government-backed securities which are not issued in registered form. Provides that the issue price of any U.S. Government-backed security shall be treated as the principal amount of the obligation. Imposes a 30 percent withholding tax on interest received by foreigners from U.S. Government-backed securities.

Bill· HRH.R. 6301 (98th)open

Steel Import Stabilization Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 September 1984

Steel Import Stabilization Act - Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the President should implement the national policy for the steel industry in a manner that restores the foreign share of the U.S. market for carbon and alloy steel products to approximately 17 percent; (2) the national policy for the steel industry should not be implemented in a manner contrary to the antitrust laws; and (3) if the national policy for the steel industry does not produce satisfactory results within a reasonable time, the Congress will consider taking legislative actions to stabilize conditions in the domestic market for steel and iron ore products. Defines the national policy for the steel industry as those actions and elements described in Executive Communication 4046, dated September 18, 1984. Authorizes the President, subject to specified conditions, to carry out such actions as may be necessary or appropriate to enforce the quantitative limitations and restrictions contained in each bilateral arrangement (an arrangement made to implement the national policy for the steel industry) or other export measure required by a foreign government or customs union. Directs the President, in applying such authority, to cover all categories of carbon and steel alloy products, to avoid distortions among those categories, and to include all exporting countries and customs unions from which there are or have been surges in exports of those products to the United States. Terminates the authority of the President to carry out such actions: (1) five years after the effective date of this Act; or (2) at the close of the first, second, third, or fourth anniversary of such date unless the President submits a specified affirmative annual determination before each such anniversary to the House Ways and Means Committee and the Senate Finance Committee. Defines an affirmative annual determination as a determination by the President that during the past year the steel industry has: (1) invested substantially all of its net cash flow from carbon and alloy steel product operations for purposes of reinvestment in, and modernization of, that industry; and (2) taken sufficient action to maintain its international competitiveness. Prohibits the President from finding compliance with the reinvestment and modernization requirement unless: (1) each major company with significant reinvestment or modernization needs has committed all of its net cash flow (except that required for retraining) from carbon and alloy steel product operations during the applicable 12-month period to meet those needs; and (2) each major company that has or reasonably anticipates significant unemployment in such operations has committed for the applicable 12-month period not less than one percent of such net cash flow to the retraining of workers, including those laid off at any time since January 1, 1982. Directs the President in making such determination to take into account such information as may be available from the U.S. International Trade Commission and other appropriate sources. Directs the Secretary of Labor to report to Congress, within six months of the effective date of this Act, a plan for assisting workers in communities that are adversely affected by imports of carbon and alloy steel products. Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to extend through FY 1987 trade adjustment assistance for workers and firms.

Bill· HRH.R. 6244 (98th)referred

Residential Energy Conservation Tax Credit Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 13 September 1984

Residential Energy Conservation Tax Credit Act of 1984 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend the income tax credit for residential energy conservation expenditures for five years (from 1985 to 1990). Revises the method of calculating the amount of such credit. Reduces the maximum amount of the expenditures which may be taken into account from $2,000 to $1,000. Increases the percentage of the expenditures which may be taken into account from 15 to 40 percent. Phases out such credit for taxpayers with an adjusted gross income in excess of $30,000.

Bill· HRH.R. 6210 (98th)referred

Comprehensive Nuclear Weapons Freeze and Arms Reduction Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1984

Comprehensive Nuclear Weapons Freeze and Arms Reduction Act of 1984 - Provides for the establishment of a comprehensive freeze by the United States and the Soviet Union on the testing, production, and deployment of any nuclear weapon, delivery system, or any subsystem or component for a nuclear warhead, weapon, or delivery system (the comprehensive freeze). Directs the House and Senate Select Intelligence Committees to begin oversight hearings on verification procedures for the comprehensive freeze. Requires such committees to report to their respective Houses within 90 days of enactment of this Act on the adequacy of U.S. verification procedures. Sets forth information to be included in the report. Requires the Director of the Arms Control Disarmament Agency to begin preparing an operational plan for U.S. implementation of the comprehensive freeze within 120 days of enactment of this Act. Directs the Director to submit the plan to specified congressional committees within 60 days of enactment of this Act. Declares that the President should: (1) invite the Soviet Union to participate in a comprehensive bilateral and verifiable nuclear weapons freeze; and (2) encourage the Soviet Union to write to the United States whether it intends to implement the comprehensive freeze. Requires the President, 120 days after enactment of this Act, to direct the implementation by the United States of the comprehensive freeze which shall continue so long and to the extent that the Soviet Union acts in a reciprocal mannner. Requires the President to certify to the Congress the nature of Soviet noncompliance with the freeze, all relevant evidence, and his recommendations for the U.S. response if the President finds evidence that the Soviet Union is not acting in a reciprocal mannner. Requires the appropriate congressional committees to report a bill setting forth the extent to which the United States should modify its participation in the comprehensive freeze. Declares that the United States and the Soviet Union should begin nuclear arms reduction negotiations as soon as the comprehensive freeze is implemented.

Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 612 (98th)referred

Security and General Nuclear Disarmament Resolution

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1984

Security and General Nuclear Disarmament Resolution - Directs the President to establish a nuclear war risk reduction center to serve as a major and direct point of communications and consultation between the United States and the Soviet Union and to monitor issues relevant to reducing the risks of nuclear war. Prohibits such center from engaging in covert intelligence-gathering. Urges the President to seek the establishment of a joint U.S.-Soviet nuclear war reduction center. Requests the President to: (1) resubmit to the Senate for its advice and consent to ratification specified arms control agreements; and (2) initiate such actions as necessary to achieve the completion of a comprehensive test ban treaty between the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Soviet Union. Prohibits the United States, after the end of the 30-day period beginning on the date of the enactment of this joint resolution, from testing any nuclear device unless the President certifies to the Congress before any such test that the Soviet Union has, after the end of such period, tested a nuclear device. Declares it to be the policy of the United States that it should not be the first nation to use nuclear weapons in a military conflict.

Law· HJRESH.J.Res. 605 (98th)enacted

A joint resolution regarding the implementation of the policy of the United States Government in opposition to the practice of torture by any foreign government.

United States · United States Congress · 26 June 1984

Reaffirms that it is U.S. policy to oppose the practice of torture by foreign governments through the implementation of laws and through public and private diplomacy. Requests the President to: (1) instruct the U.S. representative to the United Nations to continue to raise the issue of torture by such governments; and (2) continue to involve the U.S. Government in the formulation of international standards, particularly the draft Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. Requests the Secretary of State to issue specified formal instructions to each U.S. mission chief regarding U.S. policy with respect to such torture. States that the Secretary of Commerce should continue to enforce the current restrictions on the export of crime control equipment pursuant to the Export Administration Act of 1979. Directs the heads of U.S. departments that furnish military and law enforcement training to foreign personnel to include in such training instruction regarding international human rights standards with respect to torture.

Bill· HRH.R. 5903 (98th)referred

Water Quality Renewal Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1984

Water Quality Renewal Act of 1984 - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (the Act) (also known as the Clean Water Act) to authorize appropriations for FY 1983 through 1988 for: (1) specified research, investigation, and training programs in water pollution control; (2) State and interstate pollution control programs; (3) undergraduate programs in water quality control; (4) grants for developing waste treatment management plans for areas with substantial water quality control problems; (5) water pollution control programs in agricultural areas; (6) agreements among Government agencies providing for maximum use of existing programs for water quality control; (7) grants to States for lake pollution control; and (8) carrying out the Act generally. Increases the authorization for grants for construction of waste treatment works for FY 1984 and 1985. Authorizes appropriations for such grants for FY 1986 through 1988. Revises the timetable for compliance of all pollutants with effluent limitations. Extends the compliance date for all toxic pollutants referred to in a specified table of a congressional committee print (the priority toxic pollutants). Requires such compliance as expeditiously as possible, but in no case later than three years and six months after the date effluent limitations are established. Extends the compliance date for all other toxic pollutants which may be listed under specified provisions of the Act. Requires such compliance as expeditiously as possible, but in no case later than three years and six months after the date effluent limitations are established. Extends the compliance date for application of best conventional technology (for specified conventional pollutants) from July 1, 1984, to July 1, 1987. Extends the compliance date for application of best available technology for all other pollutants. Requires such compliance as expeditiously as possible, but no later than three years and six months after effluent limitations are established. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to promulgate final regulations establishing effluent limitations for direct dischargers and limitations requiring pretreatment for all the priority toxic pollutants which are discharged from certain categories of point sources in accordance with a specified schedule. Requires the Administrator to publish in the Federal Register a list of all navigable waters in each State the water quality of which is being impaired by the discharge from specific sources of toxic pollutants. Directs the Administrator to establish an individual control strategy for each listed segment of navigable waters which shall reduce the discharge of toxic pollutants from such sources so as to allow the achievement of water quality which provides for the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and provides for recreation in and on the water. Increases the civil penalties for violations of requirements with respect to water quality standards under the Act, but provides that States are not required by the Act to have civil penalties in the same monetary amount for such violations. Requires the Administrator to monitor, study, and report to Congress on the effects of the impoundment and discharge of waters by dams upon the quality of navigable waters. Sets forth provisions for nonpoint source control implementation programs. Provides for State nonpoint source control reports and plans and grants to States for implementation of such plans. Directs the Governor of each State to prepare and submit for the approval of the Administrator a report on: (1) those portions of the navigable waters within a State that, as a result of pollution from nonpoint sources in whole or in part, are not meeting applicable water quality standards or the goals and requirements of the Act; (2) those categories and subcategories of nonpoint sources which add significant pollutant loadings to each portion of such waters in amounts which contribute to nonattainment of such water quality standards for such goals and requirements; (3) State and local programs for controlling pollutant loadings added from nonpoint sources to such waters, including but not limited to programs receiving Federal assistance under this Act; and (4) the process, including intergovernmental coordination and public participation for identifying best management practices and measures to control such categories and subcategories of nonpoint sources and to reduce, to the maximum extent practicable, the level of pollution resulting from such categories and subcategories. Requires that such reports and updates be based on available information. Permits such reports or updates to include all or part of an approved existing water quality management program. Directs the Governor of each State to prepare and submit for the approval of the Administrator: (1) a plan which the State proposes to implement in the four-fiscal-year period beginning after the date of submission of the report for controlling pollution added from nonpoint sources to navigable waters within the State and for improving the quality of such waters; and (2) a report identifying each Federal department, agency, or instrumentality which is likely to be engaging in, supporting, or providing financial assistance for any activity or program within the State during such four-fiscal-year period and which would be inconsistent with plan implementation, and recommending appropriate administrative modification of such program or activity. Requires that such plans specify the following State practices and measures during the four-fiscal-year period: (1) each portion of navigable waters and land area contributing to nonpoint source pollution which significantly affects portions of such waters; (2) the order of, and schedule for, such implementation; (3) the categories and subcategories of nonpoint sources of pollution; (4) the best management practices and measures; (5) the methods by which the State will encourage, assist, or require such implementation (by category and subcategory of pollution source); and (6) sources of Federal and other assistance other than that provided under this Act which will be available for support of such implementation and the purposes for which such assistance will be used. Requires that such plan be accompanied by a certification by the State attorney general or the head attorney of the State water pollution control agency that State laws provide adequate authority to carry out such programs or a list of any additional authority needed. Requires that such schedule: (1) establish for each category and subcategory of sources an expeditious time period for implementation of best management practices and measures; and (2) indicate estimated dates for such implementation. Requires States to utilize local public and private agencies and organizations with expertise in nonpoint source pollution control, to the maximum extent practicable, in developing and implementing such plan. Requires States, to the maximum extent possible, to develop and implement such plan on a watershed-by-watershed basis. Requires that any State reports or plans required under these nonpoint source control implementation program provisions be submitted to the Administrator within 270 days after enactment of this Act, but provides for a 270-day extension upon request of the Governor. Directs the Administrator to prepare a report which makes specified identifications for a State if the Governor does not submit such report within the required period. Directs the Administrator to consolidate and submit recommendations for modifications of Federal activities and programs submitted by the States to the appropriate Federal departments, agencies, and instrumentalities. Directs such entities to carry out their activities and programs in a manner consistent with the approved State plan and helpful to its implementation. Sets forth procedures and deadlines for approval, disapproval, or revision of reports, plans, and updates. Directs the Administrator to provide technical assistance to local agencies or organizations in developing plans, whenever a State fails to submit or the Administrator does not approve a plan. Makes such local agencies or organizations eligible to receive implementation assistance after development of such plan. Authorizes the Administrator, upon State request, to provide technical assistance to a State in developing a plan. Sets forth requirements for State petitions, interstate management conferences and agreements, and State plans for reduction of interstate water pollution from nonpoint sources. Directs the Administrator, upon State application, to make grants to each State for which a report and a plan is approved. Provides that such grants shall be made to assist States in implementing such plans. Limits the Federal share of the cost of each plan implemented with Federal assistance in any fiscal year to 50 percent of the cost to the State in implementing such plan, but requires that the Federal share be at least 50 percent and not more than 60 percent of those costs of a plan which are attributable to a watershed area with respect to which the Administrator determines that a significant number of non-Federal, non-State interests of such area are willing and able to enter into agreements to participate in such year in nonsource pollution control measures under such plan. Limits administrative costs (except costs of implementing enforcement and regulatory activities, education, training, technical assistance, demonstration projects or technology transfer programs) to ten percent of the grant amount. Sets forth maintenance of effort requirements for such grants. Limits to 15 percent of the amount appropriated for such grants the amount which may be used to make grants to any one State, including any grants to any local agency or organization with authority to control pollution from nonpoint sources in any area in such State. Authorizes the Administrator to give priority in making grants for each fiscal year beginning after September 30, 1986, to any State which has included effective regulatory mechanisms in its plan and has implemented such mechanisms in the preceding fiscal year. Directs the Secretary to give consideration to a State's inclusion and implementation of effective regulatory mechanisms in determining the Federal share of any such grant. Authorizes appropriations for such grants for FY 1985 through 1988. Directs the Administrator, upon application of a State with an approved report and plan, to make grants to assist such State in carrying out groundwater water quality protection activities which will advance the State toward implementation of a comprehensive nonpoint source pollution control program. Requires that such activities include research, planning, groundwater assessments, demonstration programs, enforcement, technical assistance, education, and training to protect groundwater quality and prevent groundwater contamination from nonpoint pollution sources. Makes the Federal share of the cost of assisting a State in such groundwater protection activities in any fiscal year 50 percent of the costs incurred by the State in carrying out such activities, but sets a maximum amount for such Federal assistance to a State in any fiscal year. Authorizes appropriations for such grants for FY 1985 through 1988. Directs the Administrator, by January 1, 1985, and each January 1 thereafter, to report to specified congressional committees on the activities carried out under this Act for the preceding fiscal year and the progress made in reducing nonpoint source pollution in the navigable waters. Directs the Administrator, by January 1, 1988, to transmit a final report to Congress on the activities carried out under this Act, with specified analyses and recommendations. Requires that at least five percent of appropriations for such grants in any fiscal year be available to the Administrator to maintain personnel levels at the Environmental Protection Agency which are adequate to carry out this Act. Includes plans approved under this Act under provisions of the Act for agreements with the Secretaries of Agriculture, Army, and the Interior to provide maximum utilization of programs to achieve and maintain water quality. Declares that it is the national policy that plans for the control of nonpoint sources of pollution be developed and implemented in an expeditious manner so as to enable the goals of the Act to be met through the control of both point and nonpoint sources of pollution. Directs the Administrator, within one year after the enactment of this Act, to submit to specified congressional committees a lake restoration guidance manual establishing procedures to guide future State and local efforts to improve water quality in lakes. Adds to the authorized uses of grants for construction of treatment works projects to address water quality problems due to impacts of discharges from combined storm water and sanitary sewer overflows. Increases for FY 1985 and subsequent fiscal years the amount of additional funds which the Administrator shall have available for addressing water quality problems of marine bays and estuaries subject to lower levels of water quality due to the impact of discharges from combined storm water and sanitary sewer overflows. Increases to 65 percent the Federal share of construction costs under the treatment works construction grants program for FY 1985 and subsequent fiscal years. (Current law provides that the 75 percent Federal share shall be decreased to 55 percent for FY 1985 and subsequent fiscal years.) Provides that the activated bio-filter feature of the project for treatment works of the city of Little Falls, Minnesota, shall be deemed to be an innovative wastewater process and technique for purposes of specified provisions of the Act. Provides that the amount of any grant under the Act for such feature shall be 85 percent of the cost thereof. Authorizes the Administrator, in addition to any grant for innovative technology in treatment works, to make a grant to fund all of the costs of the modification or replacement of biodisc equipment (rotating biological contactors) in any publicly owned treatment works if the Administrator finds that such equipment has not met design performance specifications, unless such failure is attributable to negligence on the part of any person, and if such failure has significantly increased capital or operating and maintenance expeditures. Directs the Administrator, before taking final action on plans, specifications, and estimates for treatment works construction, to enter into a written agreement with the grant applicant which establishes and specifies which items of the proposed project are eligible for Federal payment under specified provisions of the Act. Prohibits the Administrator from later modifying such eligibility determinations unless they are found to have been made in violation of applicable Federal statutes and regulations. Provides that such eligibility determinations shall not preclude the Administrator from auditing a project pursuant to specified provisions of the Act, or other authority, or from withholding or recovering Federal funds for costs which are found to be unallowable or which are incurred on a project which fails to meet design specifications or effluent limitations contained in the grant agreement and permit. Provides for grantee certification of the treatment process. Provides that the approval of construction plans by the Administrator shall not include a determination or approval of the treatment work's unit processes, which constitute the treatment technology. Prohibits the Administrator from approving plans, specifications, and estimates for a project unless the applicant certifies that the proposed unit processes and treatment technology are capable of meeting the effluent limitations for which such process and technology are designed. Revises local treatment works grant conditions to require, within two years after enactment of this Act that: (1) any required areawide waste treatment management plan is being implemented or is being developed with reasonable progress toward implementation; (2) the State is implementing or developing any required State plan and is in compliance with water quality reporting requirements. Provides that a system of user charges which imposes a lower charge for low-income residential users (as defined by the Administrator) shall be deemed to be a user charge system meeting specified requirements for treatment works grants if the Administrator determines that such system was adopted after public notice and hearing. Requires that State allotments for the treatment works construction grants programs for FY 1986 through 1988 be allotted, in accordance with a specified table, for each such year by the Administrator not later than the tenth day which begins after the enactment of this Act. Extends through FY 1988 the authorization of appropriations for minimum allotments to States and specified U.S. territories and possessions. Increases, from thirty-three one-hundredths of one percent to two-thirds of one percent, the portion of the total allotment which shall be allotted to specified U.S. territories and possessions. Extends through FY 1988 specified provisions relating to the reservation of certain amounts from State allotments in order to make grants to States for administration of such allotments. Directs the Administrator to reserve specified amounts from the allotments to the States of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut in order to make grants in FY 1985 and subsequent fiscal years to the Interstate Sanitation Commission established by such States by interstate compact to carry out the functions of such Commission under the Act. Extends through FY 1988 specified provisions relating to minimum expenditures for increasing the Federal share of grants for construction of treatment works utilizing innovative processes and techniques. Requires a State to allocate at least 50 percent of its water quality management planning grant in any fiscal year to regional and interstate public comprehensive organizations in such State, except when the Administrator and the Governor determine that such allocation will not substantially assist in achieving the goals of the Act. Directs the Administrator to reserve one-quarter of one percent of appropriations for the treatment works construction grants program for FY 1985 and subsequent fiscal years for carrying out investigations and audits of such construction projects. Provides that such sums shall be in addition to any sums otherwise appropriated for or allocated to the Office of the Inspector General. Directs the Administrator to make grants for specified purposes from the appropriate State allotments for treatment works construction to: (1) the city of Avalon, California; (2) the owners of the Rocky River Wastewater Treatment Plant in Rocky River, Ohio; (3) Walker and Smithfield Townships, Pennsylvania; (4) the Elk Pinch Public Service District, Kanawha County, West Virginia; (5) the city of Taylor Mill, Kentucky; and (6) the city of Watsonville, California. Establishes a program of grants to States for establishment of State water pollution control revolving funds for providing assistance to municipalities and intermunicipal and interstate agencies for construction of publicly owned treatment works. Requires a State to first deposit an amount equal to 20 percent of such grant allotted to the State for a fiscal year before such grant can be made. Sets forth certification, reporting, and other requirements relating to such grants and the types of assistance which such revolving funds may offer. Authorizes appropriations for such grants for FY 1985 through 1988. Revises innovative technology compliance deadlines for direct dischargers. Requires such compliance within two years after the date for compliance with an effluent limitation which is otherwise applicable. Directs the Administrator, in carrying out specified provisions of the Act, to conduct research, in conjunction with other Federal, State, and interstate agencies, on the harmful effects on the health and welfare of persons caused by pollutants in water. Requires that such research: (1) place special emphasis on the effect that bioaccumulation of pollutants in aquatic species has in reducing the value of aquatic commercial and sport industries; and (2) study methods to reduce and remove pollutants from aquatic species so as to restore and enhance these resources. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1988 for such research. Directs the Administrator, in developing, publishing, and revising water quality criteria, to consider the effects of specified factors on the ecosystem. Requires that new or revised water quality criteria should be established so as to provide an ample margin of safety to protect human health and fish and wildlife resources, and, if there is a well-founded and significant difference of opinion as to the latest scientific and research knowledge in such matters with respect to a pollutant, directs the Administrator to publish a description of such difference of opinion along with the publication of such criteria. Directs the Administrator to promulgate guidelines establishing test procedures for the analysis of pollutants within 90 days from the date of enactment of this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to establish a single compliance date for pretreatment standards, upon the request of any source (indirect discharger) subject to two or more pretreatment standards which are promulgated before the enactment of this Act and for which more than one compliance date is prescribed. Requires that such single compliance date not be later than one year after the first of such compliance dates or not later than the last of such compliance dates, whichever occurs first. Requires that the applicant demonstrate that: (1) establishment of a single compliance date will result in earlier compliance by the applicant with all such standards; and (2) the technology which is the basis for one of the applicable pretreatment standards is inconsistent with the technology which is the basis for another of the applicable pretreatment standards, or the pretreatment standard with the later compliance date requires sufficient additional technology to justify such single compliance date. Requires that any such application by a source for a single compliance date be made within 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act. Directs the Administrator to: (1) provide public notice of such application within two weeks after its receipt; and (2) approve or deny such application within 60 days after the last day of such two-week period. Extends the deadline for compliance with electroplating pretreatment standards to December 31, 1984. Directs the Administrator to increase the number of employees of the Environmental Protection Agency if necessary to effectively implement pretreatment requirements under specified provisions of the Act. Authorizes the owner or operator of a publicly owned treatment works which receives the treated effluent to grant up to a two-year extension for compliance with a categorical pretreatment standard to any new or existing facility (indirect discharger) which proposes to comply with such standard by using an innovative treatment system meeting specified standards, if: (1) the Administrator determines that the innovative system has the potential for industry-wide application and the action will not cause the publicly owned treatment works to be in violation of its permit; and (2) the Administrator (or a State with an approved pretreatment program) concurs with the proposed action of the owner or operator of such treatment works. Revises provisions for criminal penalties for specified violations under the Act. Adds provisions for civil penalties to be assessed by the Administrator or the Secretary of the Army for specified violations under the Act. Revises provisions for the Clean Lakes Program (a grant assistance program to improve the water quality of lakes). Makes such program applicable to saline, as well as fresh water, lakes. Adds provisions for grants to States for priority projects for control of nonpoint sources of pollution which are contributing to the degradation of water quality in lakes. Directs the Administrator to distribute such grants equitably among the States. Limits the amount of such a grant to not more than 70 percent of the project cost. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1989 for such grants. Adds provisions for grants to States to carry out approved methods and procedures which may be applied to lakes and other waters to restore water quality, insofar as such quality has deteriorated as a result of high acidity which may be due to acid deposition. Allows any State to submit for approval to the Administrator: (1) a survey of such water quality deterioration; and (2) methods and procedures which may be applied. Specifies some of the methods which may be approved for such purpose. Limits the amount so granted to any State in any fiscal year to more than 80 percent of the funds expended by such State in such year for carrying out such approved methods and procedures. Directs the Administrator to the distribute such grant funds equitably on the basis of the relative need of each applicant State for the restoration of water quality as a result of such deterioration. Provides that such assistance shall be in addition to any other Federal financial assistance. Authorizes appropriations for such grants for FY 1985 through 1989. Directs the Administrator to report annually to specified congressional committees on the status and trend of water quality in lakes in the United States, including the nature and extent of pollution loading from point and nonpoint sources and the extent to which the use of lakes is impaired as a result of pollution, particularly with respect to toxic pollution. Directs the Administrator, in cooperation with the State of Texas, to study water quality problems in Lake Houston, Houston, Texas, and undertake control measures to improve water quality. Requires such study to include specified evaluations. Directs the Administrator to report, with recommendations, to specified congressional committees on such study and control measures. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 and subsequent fiscal years for such purposes. Directs the Administrator, in cooperation with the Secretary of the Army and in consultation with appropriate State and local agencies, to: (1) conduct a one-year comprehensive study of the Beaver Lake, Arkansas; (2) undertake a demonstration project for measures identified in such study for preserving and enhancing the reservoir's water quality; and (3) report, with recommendations, on such study and project to specified congressional committees. Makes specified funds available for such purposes. Directs the Administrator to undertake demonstration projects for specified cleanup operations for the following New Jersey bodies of water: (1) Greenwood Lake and Belcher Creek; (2) Deal Lake; and (3) Alcyon Lake. Directs the Administrator to report, with recommendations, on such projects to specified congressional committees. Authorizes appropriations for such projects. Revises provisions for permits under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). Provides that such permits are for fixed terms not exceeding ten years (currently five years), but not exceeding five years in any case: (1) where the permit modifies specified requirements of the Act; or (2) where the State determines that the applicant has not consistently complied with any NPDES permit held by such applicant. Requires that such permits be modified promptly to insure compliance with any new or revised effluent limitation for toxic pollutants or any new or revised requirement pursuant to water quality standards established under specified provisions of the Act which is more stringent than the existing effluent limitation or requirement in the permit or which controls a pollutant not controlled in the permit. Prohibits the Administrator from requiring an NPDES permit, or from directly or indirectly requiring any State to require such a permit for discharges of stormwater runoff from mining operations or oil or gas exploration, production, processing, or treatment operations composed entirely of flows which are: (1) from conveyances or conveyance systems used for collecting and conveying precipitation runoff; and (2) not contaminated with process wastes, overburden, raw materials, toxic pollutants above natural background levels, spilled product, hazardous substances, or oil, or grease. Requires any person discharging such stormwater runoff to: (1) monitor the quality of water in such flows; and (2) report at least annually to the Administrator on the results of such monitoring. Prohibits the Administrator to the extent that inadequate design or operation of a publicly owned treatment works causes such works to fail to meet NPDES permit requirements, from requiring (in issuing an NPDES permit) pretreatment by a discharger of identified conventional pollutants which are introduced into such treatment works other than pretreatment to assure compliance with specified pretreatment standards. Provides that such prohibition shall not affect specified authorities of the Administrator and of State and local governments under the Act. Authorizes a State Governor to submit an NPDES permit program for a portion of the discharges into the navigable waters in such State. Requires that such a partial permit program cover at a minimum administration of a major category of the discharges into the navigable waters of the State or a major component of the State's NPDES permit program. Authorizes the Administrator, if specified conditions are met, to approve: (1) a partial permit program covering administration of a major category of discharges; or (2) a partial and phased permit program covering administration of a major component (including discharge categories) of a State permit program. Provides that a State may return, or the Administrator may withdraw approval of, delegated NPDES permit program responsibilities. Directs the Administrator, for up to ten years after the enactment of this Act, to administer the terms of permits for two specified pulp mills in Alaska, and prohibits the Administrator from setting discharge standards under such permits which are less than those in effect on May 10, 1984. Provides that the term "point source" does not include agricultural stormwater discharges. Authorizes the Administrator to make a grant to the city of New York to install additional facilities and make modifications necessary for the Newtown Creek sewage treatment plant to provide secondary treatment. Makes the Federal share 75 percent of the cost of such project. Authorizes appropriations for such purpose for FY 1985 and subsequent fiscal years. Provides that such funds shall be in addition to any other amounts authorized under the construction grants program provisions of the Act. Directs the Administrator to make grants to the city of San Diego, California, for construction of a project consisting of: (1) a publicly owned treatment works in such city to provide primary or advanced treatment of not less than 60,000,000 gallons of municipal sewage and industrial waste per day for the city of Tijuana, Mexico; and (2) a publicly owned treatment works in such city to provide primary or more advanced treatment of such amount of municipal sewage and industrial waste per day for such city of San Diego as may be necessary to meet the objectives of the Act. Sets forth requirements relating to such grants and projects. Permits, through 1993, the discharge of pollutants for any ocean outfall constructed with such Federal assistance if such pollutants have received primary or more advanced treatment. Authorizes appropriations to the Administrator for such grants for FY 1985 and subsequent fiscal years. Directs the Administrator to make grants to the city of Naco, Arizona, for construction of a project consisting of a publicly owned treatment works in such city to provide primary or more advanced treatment of not less than 150,000 gallons of untreated sewage emanating from the city of Naco, Sonora, Mexico. Sets forth requirements relating to such grants and project. Authorizes appropriations to the Administrator to make such grants for FY 1985 and subsequent fiscal years. Prohibits the city of New York, after March 15, 1986, from discharging raw sewage into navigable waters in an amount which is greater for any 30-day period than an amount equal to 30 times the average daily discharge by the city during the 12-month period preceding such date. Authorizes the Administrator to waive such limitation to the extent and for such limited period of time as may be reasonably necessary for the city to resume operation of a wastewater treatment plant operated by the city, in the event of any significant interruption in such operation. Directs the Administrator to undertake measures, including modifications of compliance schedules, to reduce and eliminate at the earliest practicable date the discharge of raw sewage by the city of New York, taking into account any increase in the authorization for grants for the construction of treatment works made by this Act and standards and practices necessary for attaining a specified level of water quality. Provides that the Okolona Sewer Construction District, Jefferson County, Kentucky, shall be permitted to operate the Okolona Sewage Construction District Treatment Works and shall not be required to use any other facility for wastewater treatment until the West County Wastewater Treatment Plant, Jefferson County, Kentucky, is completed. Directs the Administrator to issue a permit under the Act for such purpose. Directs the Administrator to make grants to the Metropolitan District Commission, Massachusetts, for a project to undertake emergency improvements at the Deer Island Waste Water Treatment Plant in Boston, Massachusetts. Limits the Federal share to 75 percent of the cost of such improvements. Authorizes appropriations for each of FY 1985 through 1987 for such grants. Directs the Administrator, notwithstanding any provision of the Act, to pay, to the extent provided in appropriation Acts, in the same proportion as the Federal share of other project costs, all expenses for the relocation of facilities for the distribution of natural gas with respect to the entire wastewater treatment works known as Oakwood Beach and Red Hook projects, New York. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 and subsequent fiscal years for such purpose. Directs the Administrator to undertake necessary measures, including removal of accumulated raw sewage, to restore the quality of the waters adversely affected by the raw sewage discharge into Brady's run, Pennsylvania, which resulted from the destruction of the Chippewa Township, Pennsylvania, sewage treatment facility. Directs the Administrator to study the feasibility and desirability of eliminating the regulation of discharges of pollutants into navigable waters in amounts which, in terms of volume, concentration, and type of pollutant, are not significant (de minimis discharges). Directs the Administrator to report, with recommendations, in such study to specified congressional committees within one year after enactment of this Act. Directs the Administrator to study the effectiveness of specified innovative and alternative wastewater treatment processes and techniques which have been used in treatment works constructed under the Act. Sets forth requirements relating to such study. Directs the Administrator to report, with recommendations to specified congressional committees within two years after enactment of this Act. Directs the Administrator to study the water quality improvements which have been achieved by application of best available technology economically achievable pursuant to specified provisions of the Act. Sets forth requirements relating to such study. Directs the Administrator to report, with recommendations, on such study to specified congressional committees within two years after the enactment of this Act. Directs the Administrator to study the testing procedures for analysis of pollutants established under specified provisions of the Act. Sets forth requirements relating to such study. Directs the Administrator to report, with recommendations, on such study to specified congressional committees within one year after the enactment of this Act. Directs the Administrator, biennially after the date of submission of such report, to conduct a state-of-the-art review of such test procedures to determine their adequacy and effectiveness. Directs the Administrator to submit to such congressional committees recommendations, based on such review for modifying such test procedures to improve their effectiveness. Directs the Administrator to study the pretreatment of toxic pollutants, including a study of: (1) the adequacy of data on environmental impacts of toxic industrial pollutants discharged through publicly owned treatment works; (2) the extent to which secondary treatment at publicly owned treatment works removes toxic pollutants; (3) the capability of publicly owned treatment works to revise pretreatment requirements under specified provisions of the Act; (4) possible alternative regulatory strategies for protecting the operations of publicly owned treatment works from industrial discharges, including evaluation of each such strategy's potential to achieve the goals of the Act; and (5) the adequacy of Federal, State, and local resources to establish, implement, and enforce multiple pretreatment limits for toxic pollutants for each alternative strategy identified. Directs the Administrator to report, with recommendations, on such study to specified congressional committees within two years after the enactment of this Act. Directs the Administrator to study the problem of the corrosive effects of sulfides in collection and treatment systems, the extent to which the uniform imposition of categorical pretreatment standards will exacerbate this problem, and the range of available options to deal with the effects. Requires that such study be conducted in consultation with the Los Angeles City and County sanitation agencies which have observed examples of corrosion probably caused by sulfides. Directs the Administrator to report, with recommendations, on such study to specified congressional committees within one year after the enactment of this Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 and subsequent fiscal years for such study and report. Requires as new conditions for the modification of treatment requirements with respect to the discharge of pollutants from a publicly owned treatment works that an applicant for such modification demonstrate that: (1) in the case of a treatment works serving a population of 50,000 or more, there is in effect a specified pretreatment program for toxic pollutants introduced into such works for which there is no pretreatment requirement in effect; and (2) the effluent which is discharged from such works is receiving primary treatment and meets the criteria for water quality established by the Administrator. Revises the meaning of the phrase "discharge of any pollutant into marine water." Sets forth provisions relating to maintenance of water quality in estuaries. Directs the Administrator to convene a management conference upon determination that the attainment or maintenance of water quality in an estuary requires the control of sources of pollution in more than one State. Sets forth requirements for conference membership. Requires that an interstate agency be the lead agency for carrying out such provisions in any case in which such agency has jurisdiction over all or a significant part of the estuary. Directs the Administrator to give priority consideration under such provisions to: (1) Long Island Sound; (2) Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts; and (3) Delaware Bay, Delaware and New Jersey. Prohibits convening such a conference before a final adjudication has been made in any pending State boundary dispute involving the estuary. Provides that such a management conference shall establish and provide for the implementation of a master plan which addresses the pollution problems of the estuary involved. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States participating in such a management conference which are equal to 50 percent of a State's cost of implementing a master plan for a fiscal year. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 through 1988 for such grants. Authorizes appropriations to the Administrator for FY 1984 through 1988 for: (1) administrative expenses with respect to such management conferences; (2) grants for the development of master plans for estuaries; and (3) monitoring the implementation of such master plans. Adds provisions relating to Chesapeake and Narragansett Bays. Directs the Administrator to continue the Chesapeake Bay program and to establish and maintain in the EPA an office, division, or branch of Chesapeake Bay Programs to: (1) collect and disseminate research and other information on the environmental quality of the Bay; (2) coordinate Federal and State efforts to improve the quality of research projects pertaining to the Bay; (3) conduct research on sediment deposition in the Bay; and (4) conduct research on how natural and man-induced environmental changes impact on the living resources of the Bay, with particular emphasis on the impact of pollutant loadings of nutrients, chlorine, acid precipitation, dissolved oxygen, and toxic pollutants, (including organic chemicals and heavy metals), and with special attention to the impact on the striped bass. Directs the Administrator, at the request of the Governor of a State affected by the interstate management plan developed under the Chesapeake Bay program, to make a grant to implement management mechanisms in the plan if the State has, within one year after the date of enactment of this Act, approved and committed to implement all or substantially all aspects of the plan. Requires a State or combination of States in order to qualify for such grants, to submit a plan for proposed abatement actions and estimated costs for the approval of the Administrator. Limits such grants to 50 percent of the plan implementation costs in any year and requires non-Federal sources to provide the remainder of such costs during such fiscal year. Limits administrative costs to ten percent of the annual Federal grant to a State. Requires States to submit progress reports to the Administrator within 18 months after the receipt of such grants, and biennally thereafter. Directs the Administrator to transmit such reports, with comments, to Congress. Directs the Administrator, at the request of the Governor of an affected State and after consultation with appropriate Federal and State agencies and other interested persons, to make a grant for purposes of assessing the principal factors having an adverse effect on the environmental quality of the Narragansett Bay, as perceived by both scientists and users, in conjunction with developing and implementing a management program to improve such Bay's water quality. Limits such grants to 50 percent of the program implementation costs and requires non-Federal sources to provide the remainder. Requires States to submit descriptions of the proposed programs for the approval of the Administrator. Directs the Administrator to approve each such program within three months of receipt if the applicant State demonstrates that it will: (1) establish a committee to provide advice on design and implementation of a management program and to coordinate communication on issues affecting such Bay's water quality; (2) review and coordinate federal and State water pollution abatement programs to address adverse water quality factors; (3) establish methods for improving sampling data collection and a system for collecting, analyzing, storing, and disseminating such data; and (4) develop and implement within three years after enactment of this Act, water quality management practices and measures (including land use requirements) to reduce to the greatest extent feasible pollutant loadings in such Bay and to improve its water quality. Requires States to submit progress reports to the Administrator, within two years after issuance of such grants and annually thereafter. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1988 for such Chesapeake and Narragansett Bays programs. Sets forth provisions relating to the New York and New Jersey Harbor area (the Harbor). Directs the Administrator to: (1) collect and make available information on the environmental quality of the Harbor; (2) coordinate Federal and State efforts to improve the Harbor's water quality; and (3) determine the impact of natural and man-induced environmental changes on the living resources of the Harbor and on adjacent coastal areas and the relationships among such changes, with particular emphasis on the impact of pollutant loadings of sewage, dissolved oxygen, and toxic pollutants, including organic chemicals and heavy metals. Directs the Administrator, at the request of the Governor of a State affected by any interstate management plan relating to the Harbor and developed pursuant to specified provisions of this Act for maintenance of water quality in estuaries, to make a grant to implement the management mechanisms contained in such plan. Allows an affected State or combination of States to submit, to the Administrator a plan including the estimated cost of the abatement actions proposed to be taken during the next fiscal year. Directs the Administrator, if the plan is consistent with specified national policies and goals under the Act, to approve such plan and to finance up to 50 percent of the costs of implementing such plan in any fiscal year, on condition that non-Federal sources provide the remainder of such costs. Limits administrative costs to ten percent of such annual Federal grant to a State. Requires such States to submit progress reports on the implementation of such plans, within 18 months after the date of receipt of such grant and biennially thereafter. Directs the Administrator to transmit such reports, with comments, to Congress. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1988 for purposes of such provisions for the Harbor. Authorizes the Administrator to undertake a study on consumptive uses of Great Lakes water. Authorizes the Administrator to conduct such study in cooperation with other interested Federal agencies and the eight Great Lake States and their local governments. Requires such study to focus on all possible control measures which can be implemented to reduce the quantity of Great Lakes water consumed without adversely affecting the projected growth of the Great Lakes region. Requires that such study include an analysis of both existing and new technology which appears to be feasible in the foreseeable future. Requires that such study include at a minimum: (1) a review of methodologies used to forecast Great Lakes consumptive uses; (2) an analysis of the effect that enforcement of provisions of the Act relating to thermal discharges has had on consumption of Great Lakes water; (3) an analysis of the effect of laws, regulations, and national policy objectives on consumptive uses of Great Lakes water used in manufacturing; (4) an analysis of the economic effects on a consuming industry and other Great Lakes interests associated with a particular consumptive use control strategy; (5) an analysis of associated environmental impacts, both singularly and in combination with other consumptive use control strategies; and (6) a summary discussion with recommendations for methods of controlling consumptive use so as to maximize benefits to the Great Lakes ecosystem and also provide for continued full economic growth for consuming industries as well as other industries which depend on the use of Great Lakes water. Authorizes appropriations for such study for FY 1985 and subsequent fiscal years. Grants an exception to a time limitation relating to an application for a permit modification for less than secondary treatment involving an ocean discharge. Provides that a publicly owned treatment works which, before December 1, 1982, had a contractual arrangement to use a portion of the capacity of another publicly owned treatment works which has applied for or receives such a modification, may apply for such a modification for itself within 30 days after enactment of this Act. Designates the Great Lakes National Program Office of the Environmental Protection Agency as the Great Lakes International Coordination Office. Directs the head of the Office to serve as the principal liaison person on Great Lakes matters to the International Joint Commission, United States and Canada. Requires the Office to: (1) develop and implement specific action plans to carry out U.S. responsibility under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement of 1978; (2) coordinate Agency actions aimed at improving Great Lakes water quality; (3) coordinate Agency actions with other Federal, State, and local authorities; (4) establish a Great Lakes system-wide surveillance network to monitor the water quality of the Great Lakes, with emphasis on monitoring toxic pollutants; and (5) serve as liaison with, and provide information to, the Canadian members of the Commission and the Canadian counterpart of the Agency. Directs the Administrator to: (1) ensure that the Office enters into specified agreements with Agency organizational elements involved in Great Lakes activities in the appropriate State agencies; and (2) include a funding request for the office as a separate budget line item in the Agency's annual budget submission to Congress. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1986 through 1990 for the Office. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 to carry out water quality studies of the Great Lakes under the Act. Directs the Administrator, within 120 days after enactment of this Act and at the beginning of each fiscal year thereafter, to submit to Congress a comprehensive assessment of the planned efforts to be pursued in the succeeding fiscal year for implementing the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement of 1978. Requires such assessment to include specified information. Directs the Administrator, within 150 days after the end of each fiscal year, to submit to Congress a comprehensive report which describes specified achievements, progress, and long-term prospects for improving Great Lakes water quality. Authorizes the Administrator (or an approved State program) to issue a permit which modifies specified requirements with respect to the pH level of any discharge, and with respect to discharges of iron and manganese, from the remined area of any coal remining operation. Requires that such modified requirements apply the best available technology economically achievable on a case-by-case basis, using best professional judgment. Prohibits such a permit from allowing the pH level of any discharge, or the discharges of iron and manganese, to exceed the levels being discharged from the remined area before the coal remining operation begins. Provides that no payment may be made under this Act except to the extent provided in advance in appropriation Acts.

Law· HRH.R. 5890 (98th)enacted

A bill to establish a commission to assist in the first observance of the Federal legal holiday honoring Martin Luther King, Jr.

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 1984

Establishes a commission to be known as the Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal Holiday Commission to: (1) encourage appropriate ceremonies and activities throughout the United States relating to the first observance of the Federal legal holiday honoring Martin Luther King, Jr.; and (2) provide advice and assistance to the Federal Government and to State and local governments and private organizations with respect to the observance of the holiday. Sets forth requirements regarding the membership and staff of the Commission. Authorizes the heads of all Government departments and agencies, upon the request of the Commission, to detail any of their personnel to the Commission and to otherwise assist the Commission in carrying out its responsibilities under this Act. Requires that all of the Commission's expenditures be made from donated funds. Directs the Commission, not later than April 20, 1986, to report to the President and the Congress concerning its activities under this Act. Terminates the Commission after the submission of such report.

Bill· HRH.R. 5845 (98th)open

Law Enforcement Officers Protection Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 14 June 1984

Law Enforcement Officers Protection Act of 1984 - Amends the Federal criminal code to define "armor piercing ammunition." Excludes from the definition: (1) shot gun shot required by Federal or State regulations for hunting; (2) frangible projectiles for target shooting; and (3) projectiles that the Secretary of Treasury determines are primarily intended for sporting purposes. Makes it unlawful for any person to manufacture or import armor piercing ammunition. Allows for: (1) the manufacture or importation of armor piercing ammunition for the use of the United States or any State or local government; and (2) manufacture for the sole purpose of exportation. Establishes a licensing fee of $1,000 per year for manufacturers and importers of armor piercing ammunition. Imposes an additional mandatory sentence of not less than five years for any person who uses or carries a firearm and is in possession of armor piercing ammunition during the commission of a violent felony. Provides that such sentence shall not be suspended nor probation nor parole granted.

Bill· HRH.R. 5867 (98th)referred

Lebanese Multinational Peacekeeping Force Memorial Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 14 June 1984

Lebanese Multinational Peacekeeping Force Memorial Act of 1984 - Authorizes the Commandant of the Marine Corps to erect a memorial to honor the members of the U.S. Armed Forces who served in the multinational peacekeeping force in Lebanon, particularly the 266 who died in such service. Directs the Secretary of the Interior, with the approval of the National Commission of Fine Arts and the National Capital Planning Commission, to select a suitable site near Arlington National Cemetery or in the District of Columbia. Makes designs and plans for such memorial subject to the approval of the Secretary, the National Commission of Fine Arts, and the National Capital Planning Commission. Makes the Secretary responsible for the maintenance and care of such memorial.

Bill· HRH.R. 5791 (98th)referred

American Footwear Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1984

American Footwear Act of 1984 - Limits the imports of nonrubber footwear to 400,000,000 pairs per year. Directs the Secretary of Commerce (the Secretary) to allocate the import limitations among foreign countries, taking into consideration: (1) average levels of imports for the period 1978 through 1982; (2) findings of unfair trade practices with respect to nonrubber footwear products; and (3) recent market trends. Requires the Secretary to publish annually in the Federal Register the permissible level of imports by country, groups of countries, or area. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of the Treasury to take all necessary actions to enforce this Act. Authorizes the Secretaries to issue such implementing regulations as necessary to effect the purposes of this Act and to enforce its provisions.

Bill· HRH.R. 5745 (98th)referred

Reproductive Health Equity Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 May 1984

Reproductive Health Equity Act - Amends the Social Security Act (Medicaid), the Indian Health Care Improvement Act, the Peace Corps Act, the District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act, and other Federal laws covering armed forces personnel and dependents, and Federal employees' health benefits, to provide that services related to abortion are made available in the same manner as are other pregnancy- related services under federally-funded programs.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 310 (98th)open

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of the Congress that the participants in the New Ireland Forum are to be commended for their efforts to bring about genuine progress in the search for a just and peaceful solution to the problems of Northern Ireland.

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1984

Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the parties in the New Ireland Forum are to be commended for their efforts to promote reconciliation of the two communities in Northern Ireland; and (2) all political parties in Northern Ireland and the British and Irish Governments should review the findings and recommendations of the Forum.

Bill· HRH.R. 5640 (98th)open

Superfund Expansion and Protection Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1984

Superfund Expansion and Protection Act of 1984 - Title I: Provisions Relating Primarily to Response and Liability - Amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (Superfund) (CERCLA) (the Act) to revise the definition of "hazardous substance" to include petroleum (including crude oil or any fraction thereof) which: (1) is released from an underground storage tank (as defined in title IV of this title); or (2) may present a significant risk to human health. Transfers the definition of "pollutant or contaminant" from under provisions for response authorities under the Act to among the definitions for purposes of the entire Act. Provides that such term shall include petroleum (including crude oil or any fraction thereof) only in the case of a release from an underground storage tank as defined in title IV of this title. Adds references to "pollutants or contaminants" under specified provisions of the Act. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (the Administrator) to promulgate regulations, within six months after enactment of this Act, establishing that one single quantity shall be the reportable quantity of any hazardous substance regardless of the medium into which the hazardous substance is released. Increases the amount of criminal fines and the duration of criminal sentences for specified violations under the Act. Adds civil penalties for specified violations under the Act. Revises response authorities provisions to transfer from the President to the Administrator the authority to determine whether a response action will be done properly by the responsible party. Authorizes the Administrator, as well as the President, to undertake response actions. Requires that any removal action undertaken by the Administrator, or by any responsible party, be consistent, to the extent practicable, with any long term remedial action with respect to the release or threatened release. Directs the Administrator, to the maximum extent possible, to assess the risk to human health associated with the release or threatened release. Revises response authorities provisions relating to agreements with States. Requires States to make specified agreements with the Administrator, rather than with the President. Eliminates the requirement that a State assure all future maintenance of the removal and remedial actions provided for the expected life of such actions. Requires the State to pay ten percent of the costs of remedial action and ten percent of all future operation and maintenance costs of any onsite remedial action. Requires a 50 percent or greater State share of response costs only in the case of facilities operated, as well as owned, by the State or local government at the time of hazardous waste disposal. Requires the State to also pay all future operation and maintenance costs of any onsite remedial action at such State or locally owned and operated facilities. Provides for credits to any State which has paid more than a ten percent share of remedial costs at a facility owned, but not operated, by such State or local government. Provides that reasonable administrative expenses may be credited against a State's ten percent share. Sets forth mandatory cleanup standards. Directs the Administrator, rather than the President, to select appropriate cost-effective remedial actions determined to be necessary. Requires that such actions be in accordance with: (1) the National Contingency Plan, to the extent practicable; and (2) a required protection level. Directs the Administrator, in evaluating the cost-effectiveness of a remedial action, to consider permanent solutions and alternative treatment technologies to the maximum extent practicable. Requires that the remedial action provide for a level or standard of control necessary to protect human health and the environment. Requires that such level or standard be as stringent as the most stringent applicable standard under the Toxic Substances Control Act, Safe Drinking Water Act, Clean Air Act, or Clean Water Act (or water quality criteria under the Clean Water Act). Requires that any remedial action which provides for containment at the facility comply with standards applicable to facilities required to obtain hazardous waste management permits under the Solid Waste Disposal Act. Authorizes the Administrator to waive the requirement of the most stringent applicable standard, or of the specified containment standard, and to select an alternative remedial action upon a finding that: (1) such alternative remedial action will provide substantially equivalent protection; or (2) compliance with such requirements at that facility will consume such a disproportionate share of the resources of the Hazardous Substances Trust Fund (the Fund) as to have the effect of deferring or preventing remedial action at other facilities which pose a significantly greater threat to human health and the environment. Prohibits permit requirements for any removal or remedial action undertaken pursuant to the Act at the location of the release or threatened release. Authorizes the Administrator to establish the exclusive administrative procedures for making any determination under provisions for required protection level. Revises provisions for information gathering and access authorities to refer to the Administrator, rather than the President. Applies specified information requirements to generators of hazardous wastes, even if such information is available at the facility where such waste is located. Provides for access to such facilities by duly designated Federal and State officers, whenever necessary to carry out any provision of the Act, at reasonable times and for a reasonable duration. Prohibits anyone from impeding or interfering with such entry. Directs the Administrator of the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) to prepare toxicological profiles sufficient to establish the likely effect on human health of at least 100 hazardous substances which are most frequently found or which pose the most significant threat to human health at facilities listed on the National Priorities List prepared under the National Contingency Plan. Requires that the 100 profiles be completed 48 months after enactment of this Act (at 12-month intervals for four groups of 25 substances). Adds new provisions for public participation in remedial action planning. Sets forth mandatory remedial action schedules. Directs the Administrator (of EPA) to commence remedial investigations for all facilities which are listed, as of the enactment date of this Act, on the National Priorities List (NPL) in accordance with the following schedule: (1) one-third of such facilities within six months after such enactment date; (2) two-thirds within 12 months after such date; and (3) all within 18 months after such date. Directs the Administrator to list not fewer than 1,600 facilities on the NPL by January 1, 1988. Directs the Administrator to commence remedial actions and feasibility studies for each facility added to the NPL after the enactment date of this Act within six months after addition of such facility to the NPL. Directs the Administrator to ensure that substantial and continuous physical on-site remedial action commences at facilities on the NPL at a rate of not fewer than 150 facilities per year beginning on October 1, 1986. Directs the Administrator to complete by January 1, 1987, preliminary assessments of all sites listed, as of the enactment date of this Act, on the Emergency and Remedial Response Information System. Directs the Administrator to ensure that remedial action is completed, to the maximum extent feasible, for all facilities listed as of the date of enactment of this Act on the NPL within five years after such enactment date. Directs the Administrator to publish an explanation of why any such remedial action could not be completed within such period. Sets forth provisions for citizen petitions for health effects studies and for emergency relief. Allows any individual or group of individuals to submit a petition to the Administrator providing evidence which: (1) demonstrates that such individual or individuals are being exposed to any hazardous substance; and (2) provides an empirical analysis of the level of exposure. Directs the Administrator to initiate a health effects study upon determination that: (1) there is a reasonable likelihood that such substance is from a facility where such substance is or was treated, stored, recycled, or disposed of, on a regular basis, or where removal action is being or was taken under any provision of the Act; and (2) the exposure may present a significant risk to human health. Directs the Administrator (or the ATSDR Administrator if so designated by the Administrator), within 30 days after receipt of such petition, to: (1) initiate a health effects study; or (2) publish a written explanation of the determination which prevented initiation of the study. Requires that each such health effects study be completed within six months after the date the petition is filed and include specified information. Requires that steps be taken to eliminate any significant risk to human health which such study finds the exposure concerned presents. Provides that such steps may include provision of alternative drinking water supplies and relocation of individuals. Requires that the National Contingency Plan (NCP) be revised within 18 months after the enactment of this Act to reflect the amendments made by this Act. Requires that the portion of the NCP known as "the National Hazardous Substance Response Plan" be revised to provide procedures and standards for remedial actions consistent with protection level requirements under this title. Sets forth provisions for citizen petitions for site ranking. Directs the Administrator, within 12 months after receipt of a citizen petition, to complete a preliminary assessment of the hazards to public health and environment associated with any actual or threatened release of a hazardous substance or pollutant or contaminant. Directs the Administrator, if such assessment indicates a significant threat, to make a prompt evaluation in accordance with the hazard ranking system referred to under specified provisions of the Act to determine the national priority of such release or threatened release. Requires that plan criteria for determining priorities among releases or threatened releases throughout the United States for purposes of taking remedial action shall also take into account: (1) the release-associated damage to natural resources which may affect the human food chain; and (2) the release-associated contamination or potential contamination of the ambient air. Sets forth provisions for abatement actions. Directs the Administrator, within 18 months after enactment of this Act, and after consultation with the Attorney General, to revise and republish specified guidelines for using imminent hazard, enforcement, and emergency response authorities to effectuate the responsibilities and powers created by this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to establish administrative procedures regarding the opportunity for a person to object to an abatement order under this title. Provides that no court shall have jurisdiction to review any such abatement order in any action other than an action to: (1) enforce such order; (2) recover a penalty for a violation; or (3) recover punitive damages. Revises liability provisions to provide for liability for Federal or State costs of removal or remedial action with respect to a release or threatened release (whether or not such action is consistent with the NCP). Adds liability for Federal or State costs of information gathering with respect to a release or threatened release. Adds liability for the costs of any action taken by the Administrator, under specified citizens petition and emergency relief provisions of this Act, to eliminate a significant risk to human health presented by exposure to a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant and the costs of any health effects study carried out under such provisions with respect to such exposure. Provides that liability under the Act (CERCLA) shall be strict, joint, and several as construed and applied under specified provisions of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and under these CERCLA liability provisions. Provides that amounts recoverable shall include interest at a specified rate. Prohibits the Attorney General from representing any Federal agency (other than the EPA) in any civil action under title I (Hazardous Substances Releases, Liability, Compensation) of the Act (CERCLA). Authorizes the head of any such Federal agency to appoint agency attorneys or contract with non-Federal attorneys to represent the agency in any such action. Provides that, in any action under liability provisions of the Act, the results of laboratory tests conducted by the Administrator (or by a State) to determine what substances are present at the facility where a release or threatened release occurs may be introduced into evidence and shall be presumed to be accurate. Provides that such presumption shall be overcome if the defendant establishes by a preponderance of the evidence that such test results lack a reasonable basis. Adds to authorized uses of the Fund the payment of any costs incurred under provisions of this Act: (1) relating to emergency relief and health effects studies; (2) by the ATSDR in preparing specified toxicological profiles; and (3) by the Administrator in evaluating facilities pursuant to petitions for preliminary assessments of hazards to public health. Eliminates a requirement that 85 percent of specified money credited to the Fund be available only for specified purposes. Limits to six percent of such money the amount available for payment of specified claims. Revises audit provisions to direct the Inspector General of the EPA, in each fiscal year, to: (1) conduct an annual audit of the Trust Fund; (2) report on the status of all remedial and enforcement actions taken during the prior fiscal year; and (3) estimate the amount of resources, including the number of work years or personnel, which would be necessary for the Administrator to complete the implementation of all duties vested in the Administrator under this title. Requires that such audit and such status report: (1) include specified information; and (2) be reported annually by the Inspector General to the Congress. Prohibits any potentially liable person from seeking judicial review of any determination to incur any governmental response costs pursuant to response authorities provisions or to utilize the Fund for payment of such costs except in an action to recover such costs under liability provisions. Revises statute of limitations provisions under the Act. Prohibits, with specified exceptions for minors or incompetent persons, presentation of any claim or commencement of any action for damages, as defined under the Act, beyond three years after the later of: (1) the date of the discovery of the loss; (2) the date on which regulations are promulgated under specified provisions for the assessment of damages for injury to, destruction of, or loss of natural resources resulting from a release of oil or hazardous substance for purposes of the Act and of specified provisions of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act; or (3) the date on which regulations are promulgated establishing procedures for the filing of such claims. Sets a statute of limitations of six years after the date of the completion of the response action for presentation of claims or commencement of actions for recovery of response costs in cases involving the responsible person's willful misconduct or willful negligence, violation of safety, construction, or operating standards or regulations, or failures or refusals to provide reasonable cooperation and assistance requested by public officials. Extends the deadline for promulgation of regulations for the assessment of damages for injury to, destruction of, or loss of natural resources resulting from a release of oil or a hazardous substance for purposes of the Act and of specified provisions of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Sets forth provisions concerning the relationship of this Act to other law. Authorizes States to require any person to contribute to any fund to pay compensation for claims for any response costs or damages or claims which may be compensated under the Act. Title II: Federal Cause of Action - Subtitle A: Federal Cause of Action - Establishes a Federal cause of action for damages to an individual which result from harm caused by a release of a hazardous substance from specified facilities. Allows the individual or the individual's dependents to sue for compensable damages under this title. Makes liable for such damages: (1) the owner or operator of a vessel (otherwise subject to the jurisdiction of the United States) or a facility; (2) any person who at the time of disposal of any hazardous substance owned or operated any facility at which such hazardous substance was disposed of; (3) any person who by contract, agreement, or otherwise arranged for disposal or treatment, or arranged with a transporter for transport for disposal or treatment, of hazardous substances owned or possessed by such person, by any other party or entity, at any facility owned or operated by another party or entity and containing such hazardous substances; and (4) any person who accepts or accepted any hazardous substances for transport to disposal or treatment facilities or sites selected by such person. Makes such liability strict. Makes such liability joint and several, with specified exceptions. Sets forth defenses to such strict liability. Makes the following damages compensable under this title: (1) any medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, or burial expenses due to personal injury, illness, or death; (2) any loss of income or profits or any impairment or loss of earning capacity due to personal injury, illness, or death; (3) any pain or suffering which results from personal illness, injury, or death; and (4) any economic loss and any damages to property, including diminution in value. Provides for jurisdiction over such Federal cause of action in U.S. district courts. Provides that such Federal jurisdiction shall not affect the jurisdiction of any State court with respect to any action. Authorizes the court to award litigation costs where appropriate. Provides that nothing in this title shall be construed to preempt, or otherwise affect, any provision of State law regarding liability for damages in connection with any hazardous substance. Subtitle B: General Provisions - Sets forth a three-year statute of limitations, with specified exceptions for minors or incompetent persons, for actions under this title beginning on the later of: (1) the date the individual knew (or reasonably should have known) that the injury, illness, or death or other expense was caused by the hazardous substance concerned; or (2) the date of enactment of this title. Prohibits any person who is an employee covered by a State or Federal worker's compensation plan which compensates employees for an injury, illness, or death arising out of and in the course of employment (or pursuant to similar tests of work-relatedness) from recovering any amount under this title for such injury, illness, or death. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Eliminates provisions under the Act (CERCLA) relating to a legislative veto. Authorizes citizen lawsuits under the Act (CERCLA). Sets forth provisions relating to such citizen lawsuits. Title IV: Regulation of Underground Storage Tanks - Establishes a program for identification and regulation of underground storage tanks containing hazardous substances (including petroleum products), and for cleanup of leaks from such tanks. Defines "hazardous substance" for purposes of this title as: (1) any substance designated pursuant to specified provisions of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act; (2) any element, compound, mixture, solution, or substance designated pursuant to the CERCLA definition of "pollutant or contaminant," as added by this Act; (3) any hazardous waste having the characteristics identified under or listed pursuant to hazardous waste management provisions of the Solid Waste Disposal Act (but not including any waste the regulation of which under such Act has been suspended by Act of Congress); (4) any toxic pollutant listed under specified provisions of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act; (5) any hazardous air pollutant listed under specified provisions of the Clean Air Act; (6) any imminently hazardous chemical substance or mixture with respect to which the Administrator has taken action pursuant to specified provisions of the Toxic Substances Control Act; and (7) any petroleum product or fraction thereof. Excludes from such term natural gas, natural gas liquids, propane, liquefied natural gas, or synthetic gas usable for fuel (or mixtures of natural gas and such synthetic gas). Defines "underground storage tank" to include underground pipes connected to such a tank, and lists the following exclusions from this term: (1) farm or residential underground storage tanks of 1,100 gallons or less capacity used for storing motor fuel for noncommercial purposes; (2) underground storage tanks used for storing heating oil for consumptive use on the premises where stored; (3) residential septic tanks; (4) pipelines regulated under the Natural Gas Pipeline Act of 1968; or (5) surface impoundments, pits, ponds, lagoons, or basins. Sets forth notification requirements applicable to any person who, during the calendar year immediately preceding the calendar year in which this title was enacted, has supplied any hazardous substance to 100 or more sites where there is an underground storage tank which is or has been used for the storage of any hazardous substance. Requires such persons to notify a designated State or local agency of the existence of any such tank located at such a site. Directs the Administrator, within eight months after the enactment date of this Act, to promulgate regulations (taking into account the effect on small business) regarding the providing of notice to obtain information concerning any such tanks which are not located at such sites. Requires that the notice required of such persons supplying hazardous substances to 100 or more sites where such tanks are located be provided within 12 months after the enactment of this title. Requires that the notice required with respect to all other sites where such tanks are located be provided within 12 months after the promulgation of such regulations. Requires that specified information be contained in those notices required of the suppliers to 100 or more sites and in those notices required of owners or operators which install or bring into use an underground storage tank after the enactment of this Act. Sets forth other information requirements for notices required of the suppliers to 100 or more sites, and for notices required pursuant to regulations for tanks at other sites, in the case of any such tank used for such storage prior to the enactment of this Act but taken out of operation before such enactment date (but after January 1, 1974). Provides that notice shall not be required under this title in the case of any tank for which notice was given pursuant to specified provisions of CERCLA. Requires any owner or operator which installs or brings into use an underground storage tank after the enactment of this Act to notify the designated State or local agency within a specified period. Directs the Governor of each State, within 90 days of such enactment date, to designate the appropriate State or local agencies to receive such notifications. Directs the Administrator, within 180 days of such enactment date and in consultation with designated State and local officials, to prescribe in greater detail the form and content of such notifications. Provides that, if a Governor chooses not to designate a State or local agency for such purpose, such notifications shall be submitted to the Administrator. Requires the State, if such notifications are submitted to a designated State or local agency, to compile the submitted information into a comprehensive inventory and furnish such inventory to the Administrator within 18 months of such enactment date. Sets forth provisions for release detection, prevention, and correction regulations applicable to all owners and operators of underground storage tanks used for storing hazardous substances. Directs the Administrator to promulgate such regulations after opportunity for public comment and within 18 months after enactment of this title. Requires that such regulations include requirements respecting specified areas, including: (1) leak detection or inventory systems and tank testing; (2) records of such testing, inventory, or detection; (3) reporting releases and corrective actions; (4) standards of performance for new underground tanks, including specified requirements; (5) corrective actions; (6) closure to prevent future release; and (7) evidence of financial responsibility for taking corrective action and for bodily injury and property damage to third parties. Prohibits, until the effective date of such regulations and after 180 days from the enactment of this Act, any person from installing or beginning to use an underground storage tank to store hazardous substances unless such tank is cathodically protected against corrosion, constructed of a noncorrosive material, or contained in a manner designed to prevent the release into the environment of any stored hazardous substances. Sets forth provisions for the Administrator's review and approval of State programs for underground storage tank release detection, prevention, and correction. Requires the State to demonstrate that the State program is equivalent to the Federal program under this title and that it provides for adequate enforcement of compliance with program requirements. Requires that a State's new tank standards be no less stringent than the performance standards promulgated by the Administrator pursuant to this title. Provides for notice and opportunity for public comment before determinations concerning approval of State programs are made. Gives States with approved programs primary enforcement responsibility for requirements related to control of underground storage tanks used to store hazardous substances. Provides for withdrawal of approval upon the Administrator's determination, after public hearing, that a State is not administering and enforcing the program in accordance with specified requirements. Sets forth provisions relating to inspections, monitoring, and testing. Sets forth provisions for confidentiality of information, and criminal penalties for violations of such confidentiality. Requires that all information reported to, or otherwise obtained by, the EPA under this title be made available, upon written request, to any duly authorized committee of the Congress. Sets forth provisions for Federal enforcement of requirements under this title. Sets forth civil penalties for specified violations. Makes requirements under this title applicable to Federal facilities. Authorizes the President to grant exemptions from such requirements upon determination that it is in the paramount interest of the United States to do so. Requires the President to report annually to Congress on such exemptions and the reasons for granting them. Provides that nothing in this Act shall preclude or deny any State or local authority to regulate more stringently underground storage tanks used to store hazardous substances. Directs the Administrator, within 36 months after the enactment of this title, to study the following underground storage tanks exempted under the definition of "underground storage tanks": (1) farm or residential tanks of 1,100 gallons or less capacity used for storing motor fuel for noncommercial purposes; and (2) tanks used for storing heating oil for consumptive use on the premises where stored. Requires that such study include estimates of the number and location of such tanks and an analysis of the extent to which there may be releases or threatened releases from such tanks into the environment. Directs the Administrator to report to the President and the Congress on the results of the study, with recommendations as to whether or not such tanks should be subject to regulation under this title. Title V: Amendments of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the environmental tax on petroleum from 0.79 cent to 4.5 cents a barrel, effective October 1, 1985. Extends the period before such tax is terminated until September 30, 1990. Repeals specified CERCLA sunset provisions relating to expiration of the authority conferred by CERCLA to collect environmental taxes. Repeals specified provisions of the Hazardous Substance Response Revenue Act of 1980 relating to the Post-Closure Tax and Trust Fund, and the amendments made by such provisions. Repeals specified CERCLA provisions relating to the Post-Closure Liability Fund. Requires that all sums credited to the Post-Closure Liability Trust Fund established under the Hazardous Substance Response Revenue Act of 1980 which have not been obligated prior to the date of enactment of this title shall be refunded to the persons who paid taxes under specified provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Requires that such funds be made on a ratable basis in proportion to the total amount of such taxes which were paid by each such person. Adds provisions for a waste end tax, effective January 1, 1987, to Internal Revenue Code provisions for environmental taxes. Imposes such waste end tax on the disposal of any hazardous substance, if such disposal is required to be carried out in compliance with hazardous waste management provisions of the Solid Waste Disposal Act. Sets the amount of such waste end tax in the case of: (1) any hazardous substance for which there is in effect under specified CERCLA regulations a reportable quantity of one pound or less, at $15 for each metric ton disposed of by underground injection and $30 for each metric ton not disposed of by such method; (2) all hazardous substances for which there is in effect under specified CERCLA regulations a reportable quantity of more than one pound, at $5 for each metric ton disposed of by underground injection and $10 for each metric ton not disposed of by such method. Provides that, in the cases of mixtures of hazardous substances with reportable quantities of one pound or less and those with reportable quantities more than one pound, the entire mixture shall be deemed to have a reportable quantity of one pound or less. Requires the owner or operator of the facility to pay such waste end tax with respect to the disposal of any hazardous substance at a facility for which a permit is in effect under the hazardous waste management provisions of the Solid Waste Disposal Act. Requires the person disposing of the hazardous substance to pay such waste end tax with respect to any other disposal of any hazardous substance. Provides that such waste end tax shall not apply after September 30, 1990. Sets forth exemptions from such waste end tax. Provides that such tax shall not apply to the disposal of: (1) any substance by incineration in accordance with the standards applicable to incineration facilities under hazardous waste management provisions of the Solid Waste Disposal Act; (2) any substance by any person in the course of carrying out any removal and remedial action under CERCLA; or (3) any solid waste which is required to be studied under specified provisions of the Solid Waste Disposal Act unless, after the completion of the studies, a law is enacted subjecting such waste to the waste end tax. Sets forth definitions and special rules relating to such waste end tax, including rules treating waste as disposed of not later than one year after generation and as generated not earlier than the date such waste is identified as hazardous, and a rule imposing a fraction of the tax for a fraction of a metric ton of waste. Amends the Hazardous Substance Response Revenue Act of 1980 to provide that revenues from such waste end tax shall be deposited in the Hazardous Substance Response Trust Fund. Amends Internal Revenue Code provisions relating to the environmental tax on certain chemicals (and metals). Increases the rate of such tax on most chemicals on the list (but decreases such tax rate for methane). Adds other chemicals (and metals) to such tax list. Eliminates the listings of zinc chloride and zinc sulfate, but adds zinc to the list for purposes of such tax. Revises the exemption for substances derived from coal from such tax on chemicals to provide that the following substances shall not be exempt from such tax: benzene, tolvene, xylene, naphthalene, tars, and light oils. Expands the exemption for substances used in the production of fertilizer from such tax on chemicals to include as qualified substances specified substances which are sold for resale by any purchaser for use or for resale for ultimate use in a qualified use. Makes such amendments relating to the tax on certain chemicals effective on October 1, 1985. Amends the Hazardous Substance Response Revenue Act of 1980 to revise provisions relating to the Hazardous Substance Response Trust Fund (the Fund). Authorizes appropriations to the Fund for FY 1986 through 1990. Expands the scope of authorized expenditures from the Trust Fund by authorizing expenditures for other costs described under specified CERCLA provisions. Increases from 85 percent to 94 percent the Fund amounts reserved for expenditures for specified purposes. Revises provisions relating to the Fund's authority to borrow repayable advances. Extends through March 31, 1988, the period during which advances may be made for payment of response costs. Extends through September 30, 1990: (1) the period during which other advances may be made to the Fund; and (2) the deadline for final repayment of all advances to the Trust Fund.

Bill· HRH.R. 5571 (98th)open

Arms Race Moratorium Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1984

Arms Race Moratorium Act - Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should immediately communicate to the Soviet Union the willingness of the United States to enter into a mutual United States - Soviet Union moratorium on the flight testing and deployment of new ballistic missiles and anti-satellite weapons and the testing of nuclear warheads. Prohibits spending or obligating any U.S. funds for the flight testing or deployment of new ballistic missiles, the flight testing against objects in space or the deployment of anti-satellite weapons, or the testing of nuclear warheads if, within 90 days of enactment of this Act, the President has not made such a communication with the Soviet Union and, within such period, the Soviet Union communicates to the President that at the end of the 90 days the Soviet Union will observe a mutual United States - Soviet Union moratorium on such testing and deployment. Authorizes U.S. funding for such testing and deployment if, after the beginning of the moratorium, the President certifies to Congress that the Soviet Union has conducted a test or deployed a missile or anti-satellite weapon or tested a nuclear warhead inconsistent with the moratorium. Requires the President, as part of such certification, to submit to Congress an unclassified report summarizing the basis for the certification and a classified report describing in detail the basis for the certification. Directs the President to report annually to the Congress: (1) on the progress in negotiating nuclear arms control agreements with the Soviet Union; (2) on whether the President believes that continuation of the moratorium is in the best national security interests of the United States. Authorizes Congress, if the President states that continuation of the moratorium is not in the best national security interests of the United States, to enact a joint resolution which terminates the moratorium and permits funds, to be used for testing and deployment.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 294 (98th)passed

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of the Congress that the President should express to the Government of the Soviet Union the disapproval of the American people concerning the Soviet Union's systematic nondelivery of international mail addressed to certain persons residing within the Soviet Union, and that the United States delegation to the Congress of the Universal Postal Union seek the compliance of the Government of the Soviet Union with the treaties governing international mail to which it is a party.

United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1984

Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should express to the Soviet Union the U.S. disapproval of the Soviet Union's: (1) systematic nondelivery of U.S. mail addressed to persons in the Soviet Union; and (2) violation of specified treaties governing international mail. States that at the meeting of the Congress of the Universal Postal Union in Hamburg, Germany, U.S. representatives should; (1) bring such violations to the attention of the Union; (2) request that an investigation of such violations be conducted by the Union; and (3) consider possible sanctions against the Soviet Union for such violations.

Law· HRH.R. 5492 (98th)enacted

Atlantic Striped Bass Conservation Act

United States · United States Congress · 12 April 1984

Atlantic Striped Bass Conservation Act - Requires the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission to: (1) decide in 1984 whether each Coastal State has enforced implementation of the guidelines for the Interstate Fisheries Management Plan for Striped Bass (Plan) and to notify the Secretary of Commerce (the Secretary) of any negative decision; and (2) biannually monitor, beginning in 1985, and report to the Secretary on the enforcement of the Plan by such States. Requires the Secretary upon notification of a negative decision by the Commission to declare a moratorium on fishing for Atlantic striped bass within the coastal waters of the offending State. Lists activities which are prohibited during such moratorium. Sets forth penalties for noncompliance with the provisions of this Act. Declares that any vessel connected with a violation shall be subject to forfeiture to the United States. Grants jurisdiction to the United States district courts over civil forfeitures. Provides beginning and ending effective dates for this Act. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· HRH.R. 5490 (98th)open

Civil Rights Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 12 April 1984

Civil Rights Act of 1984 - Amends the Education Amendments of 1972, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 and the Civil Rights Act to prohibit discrimination by any recipient of Federal financial assistance. (Currently, discrimination is prohibited only in a program or activity receiving Federal assistance.) Defines the term "recipient" to extend comprehensive coverage for purposes of the four Acts to any State or local governmental unit, any public or private agency or entity, and any subunit, successor, assignee, or transfereee of any such unit, agency, or entity.

Bill· HRH.R. 5446 (98th)referred

Interstate Banking Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 12 April 1984

Interstate Banking Act of 1984 - Amends specified Federal banking laws to: (1) permit a bank to operate out-of-State if the foreign State's statutory law specifically grants such authority; and (2) provide that in considering bank acquisitions, mergers, or reorganizations effect shall be given to any State laws authorizing such activities by out-of-State banks.

Bill· HRH.R. 5377 (98th)open

United States-Israel Free Trade Area Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1984

Authorizes the President to: (1) enter into a trade agreement with Israel providing for the continuance of existing duty-free treatment of and the elimination of existing duties and other import restrictions on products of Israel; and (2) proclaim such continuances and modifications of tariff treatment of and import restrictions on such articles as necessary to carry out the trade agreement.

Bill· HRH.R. 5351 (98th)referred

Oil Company Acquisition Moratorium Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 April 1984

Oil Company Acquisition Moratorium Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that for the time period between April 4 1984, and April 3, 1985: (1) no income tax deduction shall be allowed for interest paid on indebtedness incurred to acquire a major energy corporation; (2) purchases of stock in a major energy corporation shall be treated as a purchase of assets; (3) the acquisition of a major energy corporation shall not be treated as a reorganization; (4) the nonrecognition of gain or loss shall not apply to any sale or exchange made by a corporation which was a major energy corporation immediately before adopting a plan of complete liquidation; (5) gain shall be recognized on distributions of property in a liquidation by a major energy corporation; and (6) gain shall be recognized on any non-liquidating distribution of a major energy corporation.

Bill· HRH.R. 5341 (98th)open

SSI Equitable Improvements and Reform Amendments of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 3 April 1984

SSI Equitable Improvements and Reform Amendments of 1984 - Title I: Treatment of Income - Amends title XVI (Supplemental Security Income) of the Social Security Act to exclude from income unearned income received in the form of real or personal property: (1) if it meets the existing criteria for exclusion from resources; (2) which is of a type not normally converted into cash or otherwise used for the production of income, which is not so converted or used, and which cannot be used for food or clothing; or (3) which is received as a gift or heirloom possessing emotional or sentimental value and which is not converted into cash or otherwise used for the production of income. Makes permanent SSI and AFDC (Aid to Families with Dependent Children, part A of title IV of the Social Security Act) provisions which exempt in-kind home energy assistance provided by a private nonprofit organization. Provides for the exclusion of certain interest and dividend income. Provides that any temporary one-time income which is received by an individual in the individual's initial month of SSI eligibility shall be taken into account only for that month. Excludes from income amounts received by holocaust survivors as reparations from foreign countries. Title II: Treatment of Resources - Provides that to the extent that an overpayment results because a recipient's resources exceed the applicable limit, such overpayment shall be determined to be the lesser of: (1) the amount of benefits received or for which the recipient would have been eligible but for such resources; or (2) the amount by which the value of the resources exceeded the applicable resource limit. Modifies penalties where assets are transferred at less than fair market value. Provides that if assets are so transferred, the period of ineligibility shall bear a reasonable relationship to the uncompensated value of such resource. Permits a waiver of the penalty if: (1) the individual is in a hospital, nursing home, or other medical institution and cannot reasonably be expected to be discharged; (2) title was transferred to the individual's spouse or to the individual's child who is under age 21 or is blind or disabled; (3) the individual intended to dispose of the resource either at fair market value or for other valuable consideration; or (4) the inclusion of the resource in the individual's resources would work an undue hardship. Provides that in any event, if a State waives a similar penalty under Medicaid (title XIX of the Social Security Act) for such individual, the SSI penalty shall also be waived. Excludes from resources, for 12 months from the date of receipt, SSI or OASDI (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance, title II of the Social Security Act) underpayment amounts received in the form of a retroactive check. Increases the SSI resources limit for single individuals from $1,500 to $2,000, and for married couples from $2,250 to $3,000. Excludes from the SSI resources limit an automobile, household goods, and personal effects. (Current law also exempts such items, but only to the extent determined reasonable by the Secretary of Health and Human Services.) Title III: Determination of Benefit Amounts - Revises SSI provisions providing for a one-third reduction in benefits for an SSI recipient who lives in another person's household and who receives support and maintenance in kind from such person. Provides that an individual shall not be considered to be "living in another person's household and receiving support and maintenance in kind from such person" if such individual lives in a household with another person and such individual's pro rata share of the expenses of maintaining such household does not exceed the benefit payable to an individual with no other income who is living in another person's household and receiving support and maintenance from such person. Provides for the continuation of regular SSI benefits until the end of the second consecutive month of institutionalization if an eligible individual is institutionalized. Increases the benefits standard payable annually to: (1) an institutionalized individual from $300 to $420; and (2) an institutionalized couple from $600 to $840. Title IV: Provisions Relating to Eligibility - Provides that a disabled child who is living outside the United States with his or her parents shall maintain SSI eligibility so long as the parents retain legal residence in the United States. Provides for the payment of benefits due a deceased SSI recipient to certain individuals who contributed to the support of the deceased. (Current law provides for the payment of benefits following a beneficiary's death only to the surviving spouse.) Provides for an exemption from the requirement that an SSI applicant or recipient must file for OASDI or other pension benefits if receipt of such benefits would cause the applicant or recipient to be ineligible for SSI or Medicaid. Reduces from six months to one month the length of time that an SSI individual and spouse must live separately before they will be treated as separate individuals for SSI purposes. Title V: Overpayments, Underpayments, and Benefit Reductions - Provides that, in situations where there has not been fraud in connection with an SSI overpayment, overpayments shall be recovered through adjustments in future benefits which do not reduce any benefit payment by more than the greater of ten percent or ten dollars. Expands the SSI interim assistance program to include payment of retroactive SSI funds to a State for assistance provided during any period following the termination of an individual's SSI benefits, if and to the extent that: (1) the individual is subsequently found on reconsideration of the termination to have been eligible for such benefits; and (2) a retroactive payment of benefits for months in that period is due the individual. Repeals the penalty imposed against an SSI recipient because the group living facility in which the recipient lives fails to meet applicable standards. Increases from $100 to an amount equal to monthly SSI benefits for three months the emergency cash advances available to a presumptively eligible individual. Provides that: (1) if at any time both an overpayment and an underpayment exist in the case of an individual without a final adjustment or recovery having yet been made with respect to either of them, no such adjustment shall be made with respect to the underpayment until the individual has had a reasonable opportunity to seek a waiver of the overpayment; and (2) the existence of the underpayment shall not preclude the granting of such a waiver of the overpayment or otherwise affect the disposition thereof. Prohibits the Secretary from taking any action to recover an SSI overpayment until the Secretary has sent the SSI recipient who has been overpaid a notice containing, in clear and understandable language, certain information, including a statement of the individual's right to seek a waiver of the overpayment and to seek a reconsideration of the determination that an overpayment exists. Title VI: Extension of SSI Program - Includes the Virgin Islands and Guam within the SSI program. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study of the feasibility of extending the SSI program to Puerto Rico and to report the results to Congress. Title VII: Other Amendments - Directs the Secretary to conduct a statistically reliable survey of current and potential recipients of SSI benefits, with the objective of determining the extent to which the program is being used by individuals who are or may be eligible for SSI benefits and the extent to which current data (on the number of such individuals and their reasons for filing or not filing SSI applications) are accurate, and to report the results of such survey to Congress together with any recommendations. Directs the Secretary to establish and conduct an ongoing program designed to provide information about SSI benefits (and State supplementary benefits) to individuals who are not currently receiving such benefits. Directs the Secretary to assist applicants and recipients in executing and filing applications for SSI benefits and in furnishing any other information which may be required, with particular attention to cases where such applicants and recipients because of their physical or mental condition are incapable without undue difficulty of executing or filing such applications or furnishing such information. Directs the Secretary to take certain steps to assure that all information and forms for SSI applicants and recipients are clear and readily understandable. Sets forth the effective date.

Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 531 (98th)open

A joint resolution to maintain the commitment of the United States to the 1972 Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty Between the United States and the Soviet Union.

United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1984

States that the United States shall maintain its commitment to the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty (ABM) and not engage in programs which are inconsistent with such treaty. States that the President should not abrogate such treaty without the consent of the Congress, and should seek discussions with the Soviet Union to consider questions of compliance with the ABM Treaty.

Bill· HRH.R. 5231 (98th)open

Academic Equity and Excellence Through Bilingual Education Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1984

Academic Equity and Excellence Through Bilingual Education Act of 1984 - Amends the Bilingual Education Act (the Act, which is also title VII of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965) to revise and reauthorize programs under the Act. Includes under the statement of policy for the Act the recognition that: (1) there are growing numbers of children of limited English proficiency; (2) the Federal Government has a special and continuing obligation to assist in providing equal educational opportunity to limited English proficient children; (3) the segregation of many groups of limited English proficient children remains a serious problem; (4) both limited English proficient children and children whose primary language is English can benefit from bilingual education programs, and that such programs can help develop our national linguistic resources; (5) data collection capabilities need to be strengthened to better identify and promote effective programs and instructional practices; (6) parent and community participation in bilingual education programs contributes to program effectiveness; and (7) because of limited English proficiency, many adults are not able to participate fully in national life, and limited English proficient parents are often not able to participate effectively in their children's education. Provides that assistance under the Act shall be given to local educational agencies (LEAs), and, for certain related purposes, to State educational agencies (SEAs), institutions of higher education, and community organizations. Includes adult programs (in addition to related preschool, elementary, and secondary school programs) among those bilingual education programs to be assisted under the Act. Requires programs under the Act to be designed to enable students to achieve full competence in English. Permits such programs to also provide for the development of student competency in a second language. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the Act for FY 1985 through 1991. Authorizes separate appropriations for such period for grants to State programs under the new part B (Data Collection, Evaluation, and Research). Directs the Secretary to reserve, from the appropriations to carry out the Act: (1) at least 60 percent for programs under part A (Financial Assistance for Bilingual Education Programs), and of such reserved amount at least 75 percent shall be reserved for transitional bilingual education programs; (2) at least 25 percent for training activities under a redesignated part C (Training and Technical Assistance); and (3) not more than one percent for the National Advisory and Coordinating Council on Bilingual Education. Revises definitions under the Act to include under the definition of "limited English proficiency" difficulties with the English language which deny to specified categories of individuals the opportunity to participate fully in our society. Sets forth a definition of "program of transitional bilingual education" which is similar to the current definition of "program of bilingual education" under the Act. Deletes a requirement that the principal purpose of any participation of children whose language is English in a bilingual education program must be to contribute to the objective of assisting children of limited English proficiency to improve their English language skills. Deletes certain requirements relating to applications for assistance for bilingual education programs. Sets forth a new definition, defining "program of developmental bilingual education" as a full-time program of instruction in elementary and secondary schools which provides, with respect to the applicable years of study, structured English-language instruction and instruction in a second language. Requires that such programs: (1) be designed to help children achieve competence in English and a second language while mastering subject matter skills; and (2) to the extent necessary, be in all courses or subjects of study which will allow a child to meet grade-promotion and graduation standards; and (3) where possible, have classes comprised of approximately equal numbers of students whose native language is English and limited English proficient students whose native language is the second language of instruction and study in the program. Sets forth a new definition, defining a "family English literacy program" as a program of instruction designed to help limited English proficient students and out-of-school youth achieve competence in the English language. Permits such programs to: (1) be conducted exclusively in English or in English and the student's native language; and (2) where appropriate, include instruction on how parents and family members can facilitate the educational achievement of limited English proficient children. Requires that preference for participation in such programs be accorded, to the extent feasible, to the parents and immediate family members of children enrolled in programs assisted under the Act. Sets forth a new definition, defining "programs of academic excellence" as programs of transitional or developmental bilingual education which: (1) have an established record of providing effective, academically excellent instruction; and (2) are designed to serve as models of exemplary bilingual education programs and to facilitate the dissemination of effective bilingual education practices. Redefines "Office," "Director," and "Council" to refer, respectively, to: (1) the Office of Bilingual Education and Minority Languages Affairs; (2) the Director of the Office; and (3) the National Advisory and Coordinating Council on Bilingual Education. Includes specified Adult Education Act programs as examples under the definition of "other programs for persons of limited English proficiency." Provides that the Secretary's consultation with various entities in prescribing regulations under the Act shall be done through the Council. Requires that part A funds shall be used for programs of: (1) transitional bilingual education; (2) developmental bilingual education; (3) academic excellence; (4) family English literacy; (5) bilingual preschool, special education, and gifted and talented education preparatory or supplementary to programs such as those assisted under the Act; and (6) to develop instructional materials in languages for which such materials are commercially unavailable. Provides that grants for programs described under (1) and (2) shall be for 3 years with an additional 2 years upon reapplication, those described under (3) and (4) shall be for three years, and those described under (5) and (6) shall be for one to three years. Revises application requirements for grants under part A (Financial Assistance for Bilingual Educational Programs). Directs the Assistant Secretary of the Interior for the Bureau of Indian Affairs to report annually to the Congress, the President, and the Secretary of Education. Requires that such report assess: (1) the needs of Indian children with respect to the purposes of the Act in schools operated or funded by the Department of the Interior, including those tribes and LEAs receiving assistance under the Johnson-O'Malley Act; and (2) the extent to which such needs are being met by funds provided to such schools for educational purposes through the Secretary of the Interior. Sets forth a new part B "Data Collection, Evaluation, and Research." (Redesignates the current part B "Administration" as part D.) Provides that funds available under part B shall be used for: (1) collecting data on the number of limited English proficient persons and the educational services available to such persons; (2) evaluating the operation and effectiveness of programs assisted under the Act; (3) conducting research to improve the effectiveness of bilingual education programs; and (4) collecting, analyzing, and disseminating data and information on bilingual education. (These new part B provisions also replace and revise some research and evaluation provisions under the current part C "Supportive Services and Activities.") Sets forth provisions for part B grants to State programs for collecting, aggregating, analyzing, and publishing data and information on the State's population of limited English proficient persons and the educational services provided or available to them. Sets forth application and reporting requirements for such programs. Sets forth additional activities which such programs may provide for. Sets minimum and maximum limits on the amount of such grants. Directs the Secretary to issue within six months after the date of enactment of this Act, regulations which set forth a comprehensive design for evaluating the programs assisted under part A. Requires that such regulations: (1) be developed by the director in consultation with the Council; and (2) provide for the collection of specified kinds of information and data. Directs the Secretary to establish, through competitive three-year grants to institutions of higher education, at least two evaluation assistance centers which shall provide, upon the request of SEAs or LEAs, technical assistance regarding methods and techniques for identifying the educational needs and competencies of limited English proficient persons and assessing the educational progress achieved through programs such as those assisted under the Act. Revises provisions for research contracts under the Act. Provides for continuing longitudinal studies on specified aspects of bilingual education. Provides for studies to determine when students' English language proficiency is sufficiently well developed to permit them to derive optional benefits from an all-English instructional program. Deletes provisions for contracts for development and dissemination of instructional materials and equipment. Requires the Director of the National Institute of Education to consult with the Director and the Council to insure that research activities under the General Education Act complement and do not duplicate activities under part B of the Act. Directs the National Center for Education Statistics to collect and publish as part of its annual report on the condition of education specified data relating to numbers of limited English proficient persons, programs available for their education, and teachers and staff participating in or training for such programs. Sets forth a new part C "Training and Technical Assistance." (Current law has some similar training provisions under part A. The current part C is entitled "Supportive Services and Activities.") Requires that funds available under the new part C be used to: (1) establish, operate, and improve training programs for educational personnel preparing to participate in, or personnel participating in, the conduct of programs of bilingual education (requires that such training programs emphasize opportunities for career development, advancement, and lateral mobility, and permits training of teachers, administrators, counselors, teacher aides, and parents); (2) train persons to teach and counsel such bilingual education personnel; (3) encourage reform, innovation, and improvement in applicable education curricula in graduate education, in the structure of the academic profession, and in recruitment and retention of higher education and graduate school faculties, as related to bilingual education; (4) operate short-term training institutes designed to improve the skills of participants in programs of bilingual education, which may include summer programs designed to include the instructional competency of educational personnel in the languages used in the program; and (5) provide inservice training and technical assistance to parents and educational personnel participating in, or preparing to participate in, bilingual education programs. Allows institutions of higher education to apply for grants or contracts for the activities described in (1), (2), and (3). Allows institutions of higher education (including junior colleges and community colleges), private for-profit or nonprofit organizations (which apply jointly with or after consultation with SEAs or LEAs), SEAs, or LEAs to apply for grants or contracts for the activities described in (4). Allows institutions of higher education (including junior colleges and community colleges), private for-profit or nonprofit organizations, or SEAs to apply for grants or contracts for the activities described in (5). Makes specified application requirements concerning consultation with parents and other representatives of children applicable to applications grants or contracts for preservice or inservice training activities described under (1). Directs the Secretary, in making a grant or contract for preservice training programs described in (1), to give preference to programs which involve parents in the educational process and which contain coursework in: (1) teaching English as a second language; (2) use of a non-English language for instructional purposes; (3) linguistics; and (4) evaluation and assessment. Requires that preservice training programs be designed to ensure that participants become proficient in English and a second language of instruction. Directs the Secretary to establish at least 16 multifunctional resource centers, through competitive grants or contracts, pursuant to provisions for inservice training and technical assistance to parents and educational personnel participating in, or preparing to participate in, bilingual education programs. Requires that consideration be given to the geographic and linguistic distribution of children of limited English proficiency in awarding grants and contracts for such centers. Requires each center, in addition to providing such technical assistance and training, to gather and provide information to other centers on a particular area of bilingual education, including specified topics. Authorizes the Secretary to award fellowships for advanced study of bilingual education in such areas as teacher training, program administration, research and evaluation, and curriculum development. Requires that at least 500 such fellowships leading to a graduate degree be awarded for FY 1985. Requires that such fellowships be awarded: (1) to the extent feasible, in proportion to the needs of various groups of individuals with limited English proficiency; and (2) with preference given to individuals intending to study bilingual education in the following specialized areas, vocational education, adult education, gifted and talented education, special education, education technology, literacy, and mathematics and science education. Directs the Secretary to: (1) include information on the operation of the fellowship program in specified reports required under this Act; (2) undertake an ongoing longitudinal study of the impact of recipients of such fellowships on the field of bilingual education; and (3) through a specified clearinghouse, disseminate research undertaken by recipients of such fellowships. Requires fellowship recipients to agree to either repay such assistance or work for a period equivalent to the fellowship period in an activity related to bilingual education. Authorizes the Secretary to waive this requirement in extraordinary circumstances. Directs the Secretary, in making grants or contracts under part C, to give priority to eligible applicants with demonstrated competence and experience in the field of bilingual education and provide for stipends for persons participating in part C training programs. Redesignates part B "Administration" provisions under a new part D. (The current part D is entitled "Continued Bilingual Education Assistance.") Renames the Office of Bilingual Education the Office of Bilingual Education and Minority Languages Affairs. Directs the Secretary, in consultation with the Council, to report by February 1 of 1986, 1988, and 1990 to the Congress and the President on the condition of bilingual education in the nation and the administration and operation of the Act and of other programs for persons of limited English proficiency. Revises the required contents of such reports (as compared with earlier required reports). Renames the National Advisory Council on Bilingual Education the National Advisory and Coordinating Council on Bilingual Education. Increases the number of Council members from 15 to 20. Requires that all Council members be experienced in dealing with the educational problems of children and other persons who are of limited English proficiency. Requires that five Council members be State directors of bilingual education programs, at least three of whom represent States with large populations of limited English proficient students. Requires that five Council members be local school board members or local bilingual education program directors, at least three of whom shall represent LEAs with large populations of limited English proficient students. Revises other provisions relating to categories from which specified numbers of Council members must be chosen.

Resolution· HRESH.Res. 467 (98th)open

A resolution directing the President of the United States to provide certain information to the House of Representatives concerning the CIA and death squads in El Salvador.

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1984

Requires the President, within seven days after the adoption of this resolution, to furnish to the House of Representatives information concerning whether Colonel Nicholas Carranza or Roberto D'Aubuisson of El Salvador have ever received compensation from the Central Intelligence Agency.

Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 276 (98th)open

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of the Congress that the participants of the New Ireland Forum are to be commended for their efforts to bring about genuine progress in the search for a just and peaceful solution to the problems of Northern Ireland.

United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1984

Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the parties in the New Ireland Forum are to be commended for their efforts in the search for peace, justice, and reconciliation in Northern Ireland; and (2) all political parties in Northern Ireland and the British and Irish Governments should review the findings and recommendations of the Forum.

Bill· HRH.R. 5143 (98th)referred

Public Employee Pension Plan Reporting and Accountability Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1984

Public Employee Pension Plan Reporting and Accountability Act of 1984 - Imposes disclosure and reporting requirements upon State and local government pension plans. Establishes fiduciary standards for trustees of public employee pension benefit plans. Provides remedies and access to Federal courts. Specifies employee benefit plans which are exempt from this Act. Title I: Reporting and Disclosure - Requires the administrator of each public employee pension benefit plan to submit a registration statement to the appropriate State Governor within one year of enactment of this Act. Exempts a plan from the reporting and disclosure requirements of this Act if a State Governor certifies to the Secretary of Labor that: (1) State requirements are substantially equivalent to those of this Act; (2) the State can adequately administer its requirements; and (3) the State can adequately collect the requisite reports. Requires the Secretary of Labor to terminate any certification if a State is not meeting Federal requirements. Requires the plan administrator to: (1) publish a summary plan description; and (2) furnish such description to plan participants, beneficiaries, and specified persons. Delineates the contents of such summary plan description. Requires such description to: (1) state the rights of participants and beneficiaries; and (2) include an update whenever material modifications are made to the plan. Requires the plan administrator to publish an annual report. Specifies the contents of such report. Directs such administrator to engage an independent qualified public accountant to ascertain whether the financial statements and schedules in the annual report present fairly and in all material respects the information contained in the annual report. Requires the accountant's opinion to be included in the annual report. Requires the annual report to include a financial statement containing specified information, including the most recent annual statement of assets and liabilities of a common or a collective trust held by a bank or similar institution. Requires each plan to maintain a schedule of: (1) all assets held for investment purposes during each plan year; and (2) each transaction involving a party in interest. Requires annual reports to include, with respect to a defined benefit plan, a complete actuarial statement applicable to the appropriate plan year. Directs the plan administrator to engage an enrolled actuary to prepare such statement. Delineates the contents of the actuarial statement. Requires the annual report to include a statement from an insurance organization if any plan benefits are purchased from or guaranteed by such organization. Details the contents of such statement. Requires the enrolled actuary of the plan to make an actuarial valuation at least once every three plan years. Directs the plan administrator to furnish, upon written request of certain persons, a copy of summary plan descriptions and the status of an individual's plan benefits and contributions. Provides guidelines under which the plan administrator is directed to file the annual report with either the Secretary of Labor (the Secretary) or the appropriate State Governor. Authorizes the Secretary or Governor to reject the information filed by the plan administrator, and to take the following actions: (1) retain an independent public accountant to perform an audit; (2) retain an enrolled actuary to prepare an actuarial report; or (3) bring a civil action to enforce this Act. Presents guidelines for notice and review where claims for benefits are denied. Title II: Requirements Relating to Fiduciary Functions - Requires every plan to be established and maintained by written instructions which designate at least one named fiduciary. Details the functions of named fiduciaries and trustees. Establishes fiduciary and trustee liability. Prohibits certain transactions. Authorizes the Secretary to grant specified exemptions regarding such transactions. Imposes personal liability upon fiduciaries who fail to meet the fiduciary requirements, including removal for specified violations. Prohibits persons who have been convicted of, or imprisoned for, certain offenses from holding specified positions. Requires plan fiduciaries to be bonded. Specifies exceptions. Sets forth guidelines for the bonding procedure. Sets a limitation on actions which may be brought regarding failure to meet fiduciary requirements. Title III: Administration and Enforcement - Authorizes civil actions to redress violations of this Act. Imposes personal liability upon: (1) a plan administrator who fails to comply with a request for information; or (2) any person who fails to file required forms. Authorizes a plan to sue or be sued. Grants the United States district courts exclusive jurisdiction of civil actions brought under this Act. Grants concurrent jurisdiction to State courts and Federal district courts for specified actions. Authorizes the Federal district court to award reasonable attorney's fees under certain circumstances. Provides that suits brought against the Secretary may be brought in Federal district court. Authorizes the Secretary or appropriate State official to assess and collect a civil penalty against a party in interest who has engaged in a prohibited transaction. Grants such Secretary and State official investigative powers to determine violations of this Act. Details the extent of such powers. Authorizes the Secretary to prescribe regulations to administer this Act. Directs such Secretary to cooperate with State and local governments regarding the exchange of data and information. Prohibits interference with the exercise of rights by a plan participant or beneficiary. Establishes an Advisory Council on Governmental Plans, comprised of eleven members appointed by the President. Requires Council members to be qualified to appraise the plans falling under this Act. Requires the Council to: (1) report to the President and each House of Congress regarding implementation of this Act with possible recommendations for legislation; (2) advise the Secretary and make recommendations; and (3) monitor the costs incurred by plans under this Act and recommend cost reduction measures. Directs the Secretary to furnish staff services to the Council. States that this Act supersedes any State laws regarding public employee pension benefits plans. Specifies exceptions. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· HRH.R. 5173 (98th)referred

A bill to provide an experience of life in the United States to children from areas affected by civil strife in Ireland by permitting the use of education block grant funds.

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1984

Amends the Education Consolidation and Improvement Act of 1981 to permit the use of education block grant funds for projects for Irish children. Requires that such projects provide an opportunity to live in the United States to children aged ten through 18 from areas of Ireland that have been torn by civil strife and violence. Requires that such opportunity include attendance in U.S. schools and affiliation with children of diverse religious, ethnic, cultural, and social backgrounds in a peaceful atmosphere. Permits such funds to be used for such projects if the local educational agency concerned files with the Secretary of Education a plan containing assurances that at least one-half of the cost of such projects will be provided from private donations and that project funds will be used to pay a portion of the cost of such children's round-trip transportation, U.S. schooling, and other living expenses.

Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 514 (98th)open

A joint resolution entitled: Hazardous Substances "Right to Know" Resolution.

United States · United States Congress · 12 March 1984

States that: (1) all persons in the workplace have a fundamental right to know when they are handling or are exposed to substances hazardous to their health; (2) the Hazard Communication Standard should immediately be revised by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in order to disseminate meaningful information to workers regarding the identity and composition of hazardous substances to which workers are exposed or which they handle; (3) the Hazard Communication Standard should be immediately revised by OSHA to extend "Right To Know" protection to workers in all industries and services not presently covered by the Standard; and (4) such Standard should set minimum Federal requirements which may be exceeded by more stringent State requirements. Commends those States and local governments which have acted to safeguard workers' health and which have passed community "Right To Know" laws.