United States · United States Congress · 29 October 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to (1) participate in studies in cooperation with other nations and international organizations; (2) sponsor international natural resources and energy meetings and conferences of a nongovernmental nature; and (3) provide financial support for visits to the United States by representatives of other nations and international organizations pertaining to natural resources and energy programs. Authorizes up to $500,000 to be appropriated to carry out activities authorized by this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1975
National Food Stamp Reform Act - Defines "household" under the Food Stamp Act as meaning a group of individuals who are sharing common living quarters, but who are not residents of an institution or boarding house, and who have access to cooking facilities and for whom food is customarily purchased in common. Provides that the Secretary of Agriculture may not approve any plan which permits any household to simultaneously participate in both the food stamp program and the distribution of federally donated foods. Requires the Secretary to establish uniform national standards of eligibility for participation by households in the food stamp program. States that the income standards of eligibility shall be the income poverty guidelines prescribed by the Office of Management and Budget adjusted pursuant to the Economic Opportunity Act. Directs the Secretary to prescribe additional standards of eligibility which shall include, but not be limited to, the amounts of liquid and nonliquid assets. Provides that household income for purposes of the food stamp program shall be the gross income of the household less: (1) a standard deduction of $100 a month applicable to all households; (2) an additional deduction of $25 a month for any household in which there at least one member who is age sixty-five or older. Limits eligibility to participate in the food stamp program to citizens and aliens lawfully admitted for permanent residency. States that no individual shall be considered eligible for the food stamp program as a member of a household if he is: (1) over 18; (2) is enrolled at an institution of higher education; and (3) is a dependent child for income tax purposes of a taxpayer who is not a member of an eligible household. Prohibits households which transfer liquid or nonliquid assets for the purpose of qualifying for the food stamp program from becoming eligible for at least a ninety-day period. Requires the Secretary to issue photo identification cards to households certified eligible to participate in the program. States that households shall be charged thirty percent of their income for the coupon allotment issued to them. Provides that if a State agency does not comply with the provisions of the Food Stamp Act, the Secretary may refer the matter to the Attorney General with a request for an injunction, or he may direct that there be no further inssuance of coupons in the political subdivisions where such failure has occurred until such time as satisfactory corrective action has been taken. Directs the Secretary to pay to each State agency out of funds appropriated by Congress an amount equal to 75 percent of all direct costs of State food stamp program investigations, prosecutions, and State activities related to recovering losses sustained in the food stamp program. Provides for a civil money penalty of up to $10,000 for each violation of the Food Stamp Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 1975
Condemns the resolution adopted by the Third Committee of the United Nations General Assembly which equates Zionism with racism, and urges the U.N. General Assembly to disapprove such resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1975
Authorizes the President to issue a proclamation designating the week in November which includes Thanksgiving Day in each year as "National Family Week."
United States · United States Congress · 30 September 1975
Provides for the regulation of mining activity within, and repeals the application of the mining laws to areas of, the National Park System. Authorizes appropriations of sums necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1975
Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act - Title I: General Provisions - Sets forth the findings of Congress and states that the purpose of this Act is to provide for the restoration, maintenance, and nationalization of the physical facilities and financial stability of the rail system of the United States. Title II: Procedural Reform of the Interstate Commerce Commission - Sets forth organizational and procedural changes in the Interstate Commerce Commission and the Rail Services Planning Office. Authorizes the Commission to act in its own name and on its own behalf in any civil action to which it is a party. Requires the Commission to submit documents under its control to any duly authorized congressional committee which so requests. Directs the Commission, within 90 days of enactment of this Act, to promulgate conflict of interest rules, which shall include a requirement that the Commission shall maintain a public log or summary of meetings held between Commission officials and representatives of regulated industries and other interested parties. Sets forth procedures governing hearings and appellate hearings before the Commission. Directs the Commission to prescribe, not later than June 30, 1977, a uniform cost and revenue accounting and reporting system for all railroad carriers. Title III: Railroad Rates - Prohibits the Commission from holding the rate of a carrier of one mode of transportation up to a particular level to protect the traffic of a carrier of another mode, if the rate proposed by the carrier is compensatory. States that a rate that is compensatory may not be found to be unjust or unreasonable on the basis that it is too low. Provides that the rate of a carrier is deemed to be compensatory when it equals or exceeds the variable cost to such carrier of providing the specific transportation to which the rate applies. Permits carriers to file with the Commission a notice of intention to file a schedule stating a new rate, fare, charge, classification, regulation, or practice whenever the implementation of the proposed schedule would require a total capital investment of $1,000,000 or more, individually or collectively, by such carrier. Authorizes the Commission to exempt from regulation for temporary periods of time any person to whom the application of regulation is unnecessary to effectuate the national transportation policy. Title IV: Railroad Abandonment and Continuation of Service - Sets forth procedures to be followed by carriers seeking to abandon service on railroad lines. Authorizes subsidies to maintain service on unprofitable lines upon which continued service is deemed advisable. Provides, under the Regional Rail Reorganization Act, that the initial Federal share of a rail service continuation subsidy shall be 90 percent. Title V: Mergers and Consolidations - Requires the United States Railway Association to develop proposals and recommendations with respect to possible projects to be undertaken by a railroad, carrier, or person involving a merger, consolidation, control, coordination, joint use of tracks or other facilities, or the acquisition or sale of assets for purposes of achieving a more efficient, economical, and viable rail system in the private sector of the economy. Sets forth a revised merger procedure to be used in proceedings before the Commission. Title VI: Discriminatory State Tax Practices - Designates specific State tax and assessment proceedings which shall be deemed an unreasonable and unjust discrimination against, and an undue burden on, interstate commerce. Title VII: Employee Protection Provisions - Requires railroads to provide fair and equitable arrangements to protect the interests of the employees affected by the abandonments, mergers, and consolidations authorized under the procedures in this Act. Title VIII: Establishment of Rail Transportation Fund - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish a Rail Transportation Fund, to consist of four separate accounts designated as follows: (1) the Rail Services Continuation Subsidy Account; (2) the Consolidation, Merger, and Improvement of Facilities Account; (3) the Rail Passenger and Intermodal Facility Account; and (4) the Loan Guarantee for Rail Improvement and Service Account. Authorizes appropriations to the separate accounts through fiscal year 1980 from sums appropriated pursuant to the Regional Rail Reorganization Act. Permits the Secretary to guarantee loans for the Rail Improvement and Service Account. Title IX: Railroad Employment Stabilization - States that the purpose of this title is to authorize the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, after consultation with the Secretary of Labor, to conduct projects designed to reduce unemployment and to repair, restore, rehabilitate, or improve essential railroad roadbeds and facilities. Provides that the jobs created pursuant to such projects shall be made available to recall furloughed personnel and to provide jobs for unemployed and underemployed individuals. Title X: Regional Rail Reorganization Act Amendments - Authorizes the United States Railway Association to purchase debentures and preferred stock of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, in order to provide: (1) for the modernization, rehabilitation, and maintenance of rail properties acquired by the Corporation under this Act; (2) for the acquisition of equipment and other capital needs; (3) for the refinancing of indebtedness incurred by the Corporation under this Act; or (4) working capital as contemplated by the final system plan. Authorizes appropriations to the Association of $2,100,000,000 to be used to purchase securities of the Corporation. Allows the Secretary to provide further financial assistance in the form of grants or loans in order to further the purposes of this Act. Title XI: Federal Excise Taxes and Federal Transportation Account - Imposes a tax, under the Internal Revenue Code, on any taxable rail, motor vehicle, or water transportation of property in the amount of 5 percent of the amount paid for such transportation. Establishes the Federal Transportation Account, to be funded by such tax.
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1975
Authorizes the people of the Virgin Islands to organize a government pursuant to a constitution of their own adoption under the provisions of this Act. Authorizes the Legislature of the Virgin Islands to call a constitutional convention to draft a constitution for the people of the Virgin Islands. Requires that such constitution shall include a bill of rights. Provides for eligibility for membership at the convention. Establishes voting procedures for the approval or disapproval of such constitution as may be drafted by the convention. Provides that upon taking effect, a constitution drafted and approved under this Act shall supersede such provisions of the Organic Act of the Virgin Islands as may be inconsistent with such constitution.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
National Food Stamp Reform Act - Defines the term "income" as used in the Food Stamp Act as the monthly gross income of all members of a household, including any in-kind payment, and the total value of any publicly funded assistance payments which supplement food and housing needs. Excludes specified individuals from the definition of "household. Provides for the distribution of federally donated foods to households upon the request by a political subdivision that such distribution be made to all eligible households in lieu of food stamps. Excludes households from eligibility for food stamps: (1) if the monthly household income exceeds the poverty index level of income established by the Office of Management and Budget; or (2) if the market value of liquid and nonliquid resources of a household consisting of one individual exceeds $1,500 or the resources of a multiple member household exceed $2,250 exclusive of specified resources. Excludes from eligibility households which include an able-bodied adult between the ages of 18 and 65 who is enrolled in an institution of postsecondary education and such enrollment is a substitute for fulltime employment. Declares that a refusal to work at a plant or site because of a strike or other labor dispute shall be deemed a refusal to work which makes the household of the nonworking individual ineligible for food stamps. Rejects as an excuse for refusal to accept work a condition of employment which requires an individual to join, resign from, or refrain from joining any labor organization. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to require each household receiving benefits under this Act to report its income at least once each month. Requires food coupons to be designed with a space for the recipient to sign upon receipt and again at redemption. Requires one member of each eligible household to be issued a photo-identification card with a color photograph of the recipient. States that such card must be presented at redemption at a food store. Sets forth specific instructions to provide control and accountability over the distribution of food coupons to State agencies. Ties the value of the coupon allotment to the overall retail cost-of-living index. States that the "nutritionally adequate diet" as used to determine the amount of the coupon allotment shall mean the low-cost food plan developed by the Agricultural Research Service of the Department of Agriculture. Establishes as the charge a household shall pay for its coupon allotment the lesser of: (1) the percentage of its income which would be expended for food by an average household of its size and income range in the same region of the country; or (2) 30 percent. Provides, under the requirements for State plans for the administration of the food stamp program, for closer State supervision of eligibility by households. Requires the State agencies administering the program to conduct nutrition education programs for recipients. States that the United States Postal Service shall serve as a food stamp issuing agency upon the request of a State food stamp administration agency. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to pay the States 100 percent of the costs of providing food stamps to eligible aliens, and 75 percent of the costs of State investigations, prosecutions, collections of claims and other State activities related to retrieving food stamp losses. Provides for payment by the Federal Government to the States of a share of the difference between the face value of the coupon allotment and the amount charged eligible households for the allotment. Sets forth the method of determining and paying the Federal share. Directs the transfer of all functions of the Secretary of Agriculture under the Food Stamp Act to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
Stipulates that Members of Congress may not, for purposes of State income tax laws, be treated as residents of any State other than the State from which they were elected. (Amends 4 U.S.C 113)
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1975
Expresses the House of Representatives strong disapproval of efforts to expel Israel from the United Nations. States that if Israel is expelled the United States should reassess its relationship with the United Nations General Assembly. Provides that such reassessment shall include possible withdrawal from that body.
United States · United States Congress · 18 July 1975
Creates a select committee in the House of Representatives with authority to conduct a full and complete investigation of the problem of United States servicemen missing in action or known to be dead whose bodies have not been recovered, as a result of military operations in North Vietnam, South Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. Provides that such investigation shall include an examination of the need for additional international inspection teams to determine whether there are servicemen still held as prisoner of war. Authorizes the Committee to hold hearings, issue subpenas, and maintain a staff as necessary to carry out its responsibilities under this resolution. Directs the committee to report to the House the results of its investigation no later than one year after adoption of this resolution. Provides that the committee's authority shall expire 30 days after the filing of such report. Directs that the expenses of the select committee shall be paid from the contingent fund of the House of Representatives upon vouchers signed by the Chairman.
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1975
Authorizes payment under the supplementary medical insurance program of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act for optometric and medical vision care.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1975
Title I: Waterway User Tax Act - Imposes a tax on the transportation by vessel of property over specified segments of inland waterways of the United States. Bases the computation of the rate of such tax on the number of vessel ton-miles performed multiplied by the ton-mile rate for the particular segment. Exempts all Coast Guard vessels and those Army vessels engaged in construction, operation, maintenance, or protection of the waterways of the United States. Title II: Charge for Use of Locks Within the Inland Waterways - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to collect a lockage fee of $10 for each lockage occurring at any location within any waterway segment specified in or designated pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this title.
United States · United States Congress · 9 July 1975
Provides that, subject to the approval by the United States, the Mariana Islands District Legislature, and the people of the Northern Mariana Islands, this covenant shall establish the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. States that the Commonwealth shall be in political union with, and under the sovereignty of, the United States of America. States that the people of the Northern Mariana Islands will formulate and approve a Constitution, subject to United States approval. Requires that the Constitution provide for a republican form of government with separate executive, legislative, and judicial branches, and that it contain a bill of rights. Provides that all persons, citizens of the Northern Mariana Islands, shall become citizens of the United States entitled to all privileges and immunities of citizens in the States. Establishes within the Commonwealth the District Court for the Northern Mariana Islands. Defines the jurisdiction of the court. Specifies laws and provisions of the United States Constitution which shall apply to the Commonwealth. Directs the President to appoint a seven-member Commission on Federal laws to make recommendations to the United States Congress as to which laws should be made applicable to the Commonwealth. Provides that, with limited exceptions, the Northern Mariana Islands will be deemed to be a part of the United States under the Immigration and Nationality Act. Makes the income tax laws in force in the United States applicable to the Northern Mariana Islands as a local territorial income tax. Provides that references in the Internal Revenue Code to Guam will be deemed also to refer to the Northern Mariana Islands. States that the Commonwealth shall not be included within the customs territory of the United States. Directs that the Trust Territory Social Security Retirement Fund attributable to the Northern Mariana Islands will be transferred to the Treasury of the United States to be held in trust as a separate fund and to be known as the "Northern Mariana Islands Social Security Retirement Fund". Provides that the fund will be administered by the United States in accordance with the social security laws of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. Exempts all bonds and other obligations issued by the Government of the Northern Mariana Islands from taxation by the United States. Establishes a program of direct grant assistance by the Government of the United States to the Commonwealth in its effort to achieve a higher standard of living. States that such assistance shall continue for seven fiscal years. Provides $8,250,000 for budgetary support, $4,000,000 for capital improvement projects and $1,750,000 for an economic development loan fund. Makes available to the Commonwealth the full range of Federal programs and services available to the territories of the United States. Directs that the proceeds of all customs duties and Federal income taxes derived from the Northern Mariana Islands shall be paid into the Treasury of the Commonwealth, to be expended to the benefit of the people. Transfers all right, title, and interest of the Government of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands in and to real property in the Northern Mariana Islands to the Government of the Northern Mariana Islands. Specifies property within the Commonwealth which shall be made available to the Government of the United States by lease for defense purposes. States that such lease shall be for a term of 50 years with an option to renew for an additional 50 years. Provides that the United States shall pay a total of $19,520,600 in full settlement of such lease. Provides that the Commonwealth may regulate the alienation of permanent and long-term interests in real property so as to restrict the acquisition of such interests to persons of Northern Mariana Islands descent. Provides that such regulation is allowed for a period of 25 years after the termination of the Trusteeship Agreement. Recognizes the importance and scarcity of land in the Northern Mariana Islands. States that the United States shall acquire additional land in the Commonwealth only to the extent necessary to accomplish a public purpose. Authorizes the creation of the position of President Representative to the United States. Establishes requirements for such post. Provides for consultations between the Governments of the United States and the Commonwealth. Directs that such consultations shall be held at the request of either Government but not less frequently than every ten years. Establishes procedures for acceptance of this covenant.
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 1975
Authorizes additional appropriations under the International Travel Act through fiscal year 1978. Authorizes additional appropriations for promoting travel within the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1975
Alaska Conservation Act - Provides for the addition of specified lands in the State of Alaska to the National Park, National Wildlife Refuge, National Forest, and Wild and Scenic Rivers Systems. Title I: National Park System - Adds specified areas to the existing Mount McKinley and Katmai National Parks. Establishes nine new areas in Alaska as national mounments, parks, rivers and reserves. Sets forth general administration provisions governing such areas, including: (1) boundaries and acquisition of property; (2) applicability of mining and mineral leasing laws; (3) sport hunting; (4) subsistence uses; (5) cooperative agreements; and (6) wilderness review for suitability of such areas. Designates seven additions to the Wild and Scenic River System. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for the purposes of this title. Title II: National Wildlife Refuge System - Establishes twelve national wildlife refuges, one national arctic range and one national resource range, Sets forth general administrative procedures governing such lands. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this title. Title III: National Forest System - Establishes the Wrangell Mountains, Porcupine and Yukon - Kuskokwim National Forests. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as necessary to carry out the provisions of this title. Title IV: Additions to National Wild and Scenic Rivers System Located Outside National Parks, National Wildlife Refuges, and National Forests - Designates specified streams, rivers, and segments in Alaska as scenic rivers. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as necessary to carry out the provisions of this title.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1975
Requires under the Social Security Act the continued application of the 8 1/2 percent nursing salary cost differential which is presently allowed in determining the reasonable cost of inpatient nursing care for purposes of reimbursement to providers under the medicare program.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1975
Revises the Pennsylvania Avenue Development Corporation Act. Provides that in addition to sums heretofore appropriated, there are authorized to be appropriated for operating and administrative expenses of the Corporation sums not to exceed $1,300,000 for fiscal year 1976; $325,000 for the period July 1 through September 30, 1976; $1,500,000 for fiscal year 1977; and $1,600,000 each for the next three succeeding fiscal years.
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 1975
Beef Research and Information Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to issue orders: (1) providing for the establishment and administration of plans for advertising, sales promotion, and consumer information with respect to the use of cattle, beef, or beef products and for the disbursement of necessary funds for such purposes; (2) providing for research and studies with respect to sale, distribution, marketing, utilization, or production of cattle, beef, or beef products, and the creation of new products thereof, to the end that the marketing and utilization of cattle, beef, or beef products may be encouraged, expanded, improved, or made more acceptable, and the data collected by such activities may be disseminated and for the disbursement of necessary funds for such purposes; and (3) providing that slaughterers maintain and make available for inspection such books and records as may be required by any order issued pursuant to this Act. Provides for the establishment of a Beef Board, to be composed of not more than 68 cattle producers or representatives of cattle producers appointed by the Secretary. Sets forth the duties and responsibilities of the Beef Board, including: (1) the administration of the orders of the Secretary in accordance with its terms and provisions; and (2) the issuance of rules and regulations to effectuate the terms and provisions of such orders. Requires the Secretary to conduct a referendum among cattle producers who have been engaged in the production of cattle for the purpose of ascertaining whether the issuance of an order is approved or favored by not less than two-thirds of such producers. Authorizes appropriations of such funds as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1975
Emergency Employment Appropriation Act - Authorizes the appropriation of enumerated sums for emergency employment for fiscal year 1975. Title I: - Authorizes specified amounts for the Comprehensive Manpower Assistance, Community Service Employment for Older Americans, and Temporary Employment Assistance programs in the Department of Labor. Authorizes specified amounts for the Health Services, Higher Education, and Social and Rehabilitative Service Work Incentives programs in the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Authorizes $5,000,000 for the administrative expenses of the United States Railway Association in the Department of Transportation. Title II: Limits the application of sums under this Act. Prohibits the expenditure of sums authorized by this Act for the acquisition of motor vehicles other than motor vehicles manufactured and assembled in the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1975
Increases from seven years to eleven years from date of separation from service the period in which multiple sclerosis is presumed to have been incurred during service for purposes of veterans' benefits. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 312 (a)(4)
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1975
Defines the term "navigable waters", for purposes of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as it applies to Corps of Engineers responsibility and authority to regulate the discharge of dredged or fill material.
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1975
Railroad Right-of-Way Improvement Act - Declares it the purpose of this Act to provide, during times of high unemployment, assistance to create employment opportunities in rebuilding the Nation's railroad rights-of-way. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to provide financial assistance during times of high unemployment for the purpose of providing employment for unemployed and under employed persons in jobs maintaining or rebuilding railroad rights-of-way. Authorizes, for such purposes, appropriations of $500,000,000 for fiscal year 1975; $1,000,000,000 for fiscal year 1976, and $1,000,000,000 for fiscal year 1977. Requires such funds be expended only for wages and employment benefits. Prohibits further obligation of such funds to be made subsequent to a determination by the Secretary that the rate of national unemployment (seasonally adjusted) has receded below 4.5 percent for three consecutive months. Requires applications for financial assistance for a railroad right-of-way employment program to contain specified assurances. Directs the Secretary to transmit to Congress at least annually a detailed report setting forth the activities conducted under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1975
Allows a tax credit under the Internal Revenue Code for the amount paid by an individual during the taxable year for any prosthetic device for the taxpayer, his spouse, or any dependent. Limits such credit to the income tax imposed reduced by the sum of specified credits otherwise allowed.
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1975
Provides, under the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969, that if a miner was employed for 25 years or more in one or more underground coal mines, and if such miner died prior to the effective date of such Act, there shall be an irrebuttable presumption, for purposes of determining eligibility for black lung benefits, that his death was due to pneumoconiosis or that at the time of his death he was totally disabled by pneumoconiosis.
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1975
Increases the value of exemptions for taxable estates under the Internal Revenue Code from $60,000 to $200,000 of the value of the gross estate. Increases the limitation on the aggregate marital deduction to 50 percent of the adjusted gross value of the estate, plus $100,000. Allows an executor to value farmland, woodland, and scenic open land at its current use value rather than at its fair market value.
United States · United States Congress · 15 April 1975
Revises the membership of the Water Resources Council to remove the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare therefrom and add to such Council's membership the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.
United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1975
Provides that specified rural hospitals shall be exempt for a period of 18 months from the requirements and provisions of Title XI of the Social Security Act relating to the establishment of professional standards review organizations and from the provisions of such Act and the regulations governing utilization review and utilization control procedures under the medicare, medicaid, and maternal and child health programs. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to investigate alternative methods of utilization review and control for rural hospitals. Defines "rural hospitals" for purposes of this Act as meaning a hospital which is located in a community having a population of less than 50,000, but only if: (1) there is no other is no other community which has a population of fifty thousand or more within a ten-mile radius of such hospital; (2) the combined average patient load for all hospitals within such ten-mile radius is less than forty per day; and (3) the number of practicing physicians on the regular staff of such hospital does not exceed seven.
United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to establish national petroleum reserves on any reserved or unreserved public lands of the United States except lands in the National Park System, the National Wildlife Refuge System, the Wild and Scenic Rivers System, the National Wilderness Preservation System, areas now under review for inclusion in the Wilderness System in accordance with provisions of the Wilderness Act of 1964, and lands in Alaska other than those in Naval Petroleum Reserve Numbered 4. States that no national petroleum reserve that includes all or part of an existing naval petroleum reserve shall be established without prior consultation with the Secretary of Defense. Authorizes the development of the oil and gas in the national petroleum reserves in the contiguous 48 States established pursuant to this Act. Requires competitive bidding procedures with prior public notice for any contract, lease, or operating agreement for development and production of oil and gas from a national petroleum reserve. States that the terms and conditions for such development, which shall be prescribed by the Secretary of the Interior, shall be subject to disapproval by Congress. Provides that any oil or gas produced from such petroleum reserves shall, with exceptions, be subject to all the limitations and licensing requirements of the Export Administration Act. Authorizes and directs the Secretary of the Interior to explore for oil and gas on Naval Petroleum Reserve Numbered 4 and to report annually to Congress on his plan for exploration of such reserve.
United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1975
Amtrak Improvement Act - Permits officers of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation to be compensated at a rate in excess of that prescribed for level I of the Executive Schedule if the board of directors of the Corporation determines that a higher level of compensation is necessary and is not higher than the general level of compensation paid officers of railroads in positions of comparable responsibility. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury and the Attorney General to establish, in cooperation with the Corporation, convenient en route customs inspection and immigration procedures aboard trains operated in international intercity rail passenger service. Directs the board of directors of the Corporation to develop and submit to the Secretary of Transportion, to the Interstate Commerce Commission, and to the Congress an initial proposal for procedures under which the Corporation would be authorized to add or discontinue routes and services. Provides for the review and implementation of such procedures. Abolishes the financial investment advisory panel of the Corporation . Authorizes appropriations for the Corporation for the payment of operating expenses of the basic system and the operating and capital expenses of rail passenger service through fiscal year 1977.
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1975
Prohibits the importation into the United States of any fresh, chilled, or frozen cattle meat during the 180-day period which begins on the date of enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1975
Railroad Right-Of-Way Improvement Act - Declares it the purpose of this Act to provide, during times of high unemployment, assistance to create employment opportunities in building the Nation's railroad rights-of-way. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to provide financial assistance during times of high unemployment for the purpose of providing employment for unemployed and underemployed persons in jobs maintaining or rebuilding railroad rights- of-way. Authorizes for such purposes, appropriations of $500,000,000 for fiscal year 1975; $1,000,000,000 for the fiscal year 1976; and $1,000,000,000 for fiscal year 1977. Requires such funds to be expended only for wages and employment benefits. Prohibits further obligation of such funds to be made subsequent to a determination by the Secretary that the rate of national unemployment (seasonally adjusted) has receded below 4.5 per cent for three consecutive months. Requires applications for financial assistance for a railroad right-of-way employment program to contain specified assurances. Directs the Secretary to transmit to Congress at least annually a detailed report setting forth the activities conducted under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1975
Authorizes appropriations, under the Act to amend the International Travel Act of 1961, of up to $2,500,000 for fiscal year 1976 and for each of the two succeeding fiscal years to the Secretary of Commerce for the promotion of tourist travel in the United States. Authorizes, under the International Travel Act of 1961, appropriations of up to $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, and $30,000,000 for fiscal years 1978 and 1979, for printing of travel promotion material.
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1975
Beef Research and Consumer Information Act - Declares that it is the purpose of this Act to enable cattle producers to establish, finance, and carry out a coordinated program to improve markets for cattle, beef and beef products, and to provide an adequate supply of high quality beef to the consumers of the Nation at reasonable prices. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to issue beef research and promotion orders. Provides that such orders shall be issued only after due notice and opportunity for hearing shall have been given to producers and producer organizations, and after the Secretary shall have determined that the issuance of such an order will effectuate the declared policy of this Act. Declares that such order shall not take effect until approved by a majority of two-thirds of the cattle producers voting in a referendum. Establishes a Beef Board to administer the Order in accordance with its terms and provisions, to make rules and regulations to effectuate the terms and provisions of the Order, to receive, investigate and report complaints of violations of the Order, and to recommend to the Secretary amendments to the Order. Lists the procedures for appointing members of such board. Requires that any plans for advertising, sales promotion, consumer education, producer education, research, and the annual budget be developed by the Beef Board and submitted to the Secretary of Agriculture for approval. Empowers the Beef Board to enter into contracts or agreements for the development and carrying out of the activities authorized under the Order. Declares that producers of cattle shall be assessed at a specific rate to be determined by stated procedures. Provides that each time cattle are sold, the cattle producer shall pay to the purchaser the amount assessed, based upon the sale price of the cattle. Provides that any cattle producer against whose cattle or beef any assessment is made and collected shall have the right to demand and receive from the Beef Board a refund of such assessment. Declares that nothing in this Act shall be construed to preempt or interfere with the workings of any beef board, beef council, or other beef promotion entity organized and operating within and by authority of any of the several states. Provides for the return to members of such beef board or council of an amount to be determined by a specified formula. Stipulates that to qualify for the funds described in this provision, such state beef board, beef council or other beef promotional entity shall demonstrate ability to provide research, promotion and education within the state consistent with this Act and Order. States that each purchaser, handler or agent may be required to report to the Beef Board periodically concerning number of cattle handled, amount assessed, sale price of cattle on which assessment was collected, and other information necessary for the enforcement of this Act. Declares that this Act and any order issued pursuant to it may be enforced in the District Courts of the U.S., with the U.S. Attorney General having authority to bring any Civil suits authorized under this Act. Provides for a fine of not more than $1,000 for violation, of this Act and any orders issued pursuant to it. Stipulates that no funds collected by the Beef Baord shall in any manner be used for the purpose of influencing governmental policy or action. Authorizes to be appropriated such funds as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. Stipulates that funds so appropriated shall not be available for payment of the expenses or expenditures of the Beef Board in administering any provisions of any order issued pursuant to the terms of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1975
Authorizes air carriers to grant reduced rate transportation, under the Federal Aviation Act, to individuals twenty-one or younger, adn sixty-five and older, on a space-available basis. Prohibits air carriers from reserving any seating capacity on any regularly scheduled flight without receipt of one-fourth the tariff for air transportation. Prohibits the refund of such deposit unless the reservation is cancelled more than twenty-four hours before the scheduled departure of the reserved flight. Prohibits air carriers from overbooking their flights.
United States · United States Congress · 20 February 1975
Designates specified lands in the States of Alaska, Arizona, California, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, Oregon, South Carolina, Vermont, and Virginia as wilderness within the National Wildlife Refuge System. Designates specified lands in the States of Wyoming, California, Idaho, Montana, Colorado, and New Mexico as wilderness areas within National Forests.
United States · United States Congress · 20 February 1975
Provides, under the Water Resources Planning Act, for the removal of the $100 per diem limit on compensation for specified experts and consultants. States that such compensation shall not be in excess of the daily equivalent of the rate prescribed for grade GS-18 in the United States Code. Authorizes to be appropriated without fiscal year limitation such sums as are necessary to carry out the purposes of the Water Resources Planning Act. Allows the Water Resources Council to transfer funds under such Act to river basin commissions and to Federal and State agencies upon such terms and conditions as it determines are necessary to carry out the purposes of such Act in an economical manner.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1975
Provides that recipients of veterans' pension and compensation shall not have the amount of such pension or compensation reduced, or entitlement thereto discontinued, because of increases in monthly social security benefits resulting from the enactment of Public Law 93-66, Public Law 93-233, and subsequent cost-of-living increases under title II of the Social Security Act. Provides that the provisions of this Act shall apply with respect to annual income determinations made for calendar years after 1972.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1975
Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act - Title I: Statement of Findings and Policy - Declares that most of the nation's coal reserves can only be mined by underground methods. States the purposes of this Act, including to establish a nationwide program to prevent the adverse effects to society and the environment from surface coal mining. Title II: Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement - Establishes in the Interior Department the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement with a director appointed by the President. States that such office shall administer the programs required by this Act and assist the States in development of State programs for surface coal mining and reclamation. Title III: Abandoned Mine Reclamation - Creates the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund in the Treasury. Requires operators of coal mines to pay into the fund quarterly fees of 10 cents per ton of coal produced. Authorizes use of money in the Fund for acquisition and reclamation of abandoned and unreclaimed mined lands and for acquisitions and fillings of voids and sealing of tunnels and entryways in abandoned mines. Permits the Secretary to acquire land by condemnation for reclamation. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States for up to 50 percent of the cost of acquiring and reclaiming lands or sealing voids and tunnels. Allows the resale of reclaimed land by public bidding, and allows local public participation in determining use of reclaimed land. Title IV: Control of the Environmental Impacts of Surface Coal Mining - Requires the Secretary, within 120 days, to establish an interim Federal evaluation and enforcement program of specified standards to remain in effect until State programs are approved. Directs publication within 180 days of enactment of regulations covering surface coal mining and reclamation, setting standards for State programs. States that such regulations must meet approval of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator. Requires States, within 18 months of enactment, to submit programs for carrying out this Act, such programs to include a State regulatory authority capable of regulating surface coal mining, state laws providing for sanctions for violations of regulations, and a permit system for surface coal mining regulation. Demands that such State programs meet the approval of the EPA Administrator. Requires implementation of a Federal program of surface coal mining regulation where States fail in such implementation. Permits State laws and regulations that are more stringent than this Act. Requires that 6 months after a State program is approved by the Secretary, no person shall engage in surface coal mining operations unless such person has obtained a permit, good for 5 years. Requires permit applications to describe the method of mining and equipment proposed to be used, to describe by maps the land to be affected, and to contain a statement of results of test borings or core samplings of affected land. States that permits must be accompanied by a mining and reclamation plan which shall include a description of present uses of the land, steps to be taken to prevent environmental damage, and a description of the reclamation activities. Requires the posting of performance bonds and possession of liability insurance by applicants for permits. Sets general performance standards for environmental protection in surface coal mining which permittees under this Act must meet. Imposes additional standards for steep-slope surface mining. Directs the Secretary to promulgate rules and regulatings directed at the surface effects of underground mining, including specified requirements. Directs and authorizes inspection of surface coal mining and reclamation to determine compliance with this Act and regulations pursuant thereto. Provides for requirement of record keeping and submittal and monitoring by mine operators. Requires surprise inspections by regulatory agencies not less than once a month. Requires civil penalties for violations of this Act or regulations under it. Provides that when an operator completes the backfilling, regrading, and drainage control of a bonded area, he may request a release of 60 percent of the bond. Provides that the remaining amount may be returned upon completion of all reclamation. Allows persons with a legal interest to file objections to release of bond, and for public hearings to follow. Permits any person to bring civil suit against any person, including the United States, alleged to be in violation of this Act. Allows the court to award costs of litigation to parties in suits brought under this Act. Permits the Secretary to intervene in actions under this Act. Allows, where State regulatory authorities do not exist or fail to act, for Federal enforcement of this Act and or permit conditions. Permits issuance of an order to cease mining and reclamation. Provides for the Attorney General to institute civil suit for a restraining order or injunction to enforce this Act or regulations under it. Directs States to designate as unsuitable for surface coal mining those areas where reclamation is impossible or where land is fragile or of historical value. Prohibits existing mining operations from being declared unsuitable. Requires implementation of a Federal lands program to all surface mining and reclamation operations on Federal land. Requires such program to at least, adopt all requirements of this Act. Demands separate regulations for programs for special bituminous coal surface mines that meet specified criteria, and for anthracite coal surface mines which are regulated by environmental protection standards of the States. Title V: Designation of Lands Unsuitable for Noncoal Mining - Allows the Secretary to designate Federal lands unsuitable for mining materials other than coal, if they are predominantly urban or suburban in character or if such mining operations would have an adverse impact on lands used primarily for residential and related purposes. Title VI: Administrative and Miscellaneous Provisions - Defines the terms used in this Act. Prohibits discrimination against employees for filing suit under this Act and for testifying in a proceeding under this Act. Requires the Secretary to submit an annual report to the President and the Congress. Directs the Secretary to contract with the National Academy of Sciences - National Academy of Engineering for a study of surface coal mining conditions in Alaska in order to determine which, if any, of the provisions of this Act should be modified with respect to such operations in Alaska. Directs the Chairman of the Council on Environmental Quality to contract with the National Academy of Sciences - National Academy of Engineering and other groups for a study of the technology for surface and open-pit mining and reclamation for minerals other than coal designed to assist in the development of regulation for such operations. Directs the Secretary to consult with Indian tribes in studying the regulation of surface mining on Indian lands. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act, as follows: for administrative and other purposes, $10,000,000 for fiscal 1975, $20,000,000 for fiscal 1976 and 1977, and $30,000,000 for fiscal years thereafter; $250,000 for the Alaskan surface coal mine study, and $500,000 for the study of surface mining of other minerals.
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to release restrictions on the use of specified property conveyed to the city of Elkhart, Kansas, for airport purposes.
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1975
Energy Independence Act - Title I: Naval Petroleum Reserves - Declares it to be the policy of the United States to fully explore and develop the Naval Petroleum and Oil Shale Reserves and to create with the petroleum and revenue produced therefrom a National Strategic Petroleum Reserve capacity. States that such reserves shall be held until needed for the emergency requirements of national security. Provides that such reserve shall consist of not more than 1,300,000,000 barrels of petroleum of which 300,000,000 if for military use and up to 1,000,000,000 barrels is for civilian consumption. Enumerates reserves that come within the Naval Petroleum and Oil Shale Reserves created by this title. Establishes a National Strategic Petroleum Reserve Special Fund and credits into such Fund specified proceeds. Sets forth the purposes for which the Fund shall be available to the President, including the exploration, prospecting, conservation, development, use, operation, and production of the Naval Petroleum and Oil Shale Reserves. Creates under the management of the Secretary of the Navy a National Strategic Petroleum Reserve (military) which shall include a stock of readily deliverable petroleum in the amount of 300,000,000 barrels to meet the emergency requirements of military use for national security. Authorizes the Secretary to request the Attorney General to institute proceedings to acquire by condemnation, if necessary, any property essential to carrying out the establishment of such Reserve. Provides that if the President determines that the national security is threatened by an emergency such as an embargo by a foreign country or armed conflicts, the resources of the National Strategic Petroleum Reserve (military) may be utilized as directed by the President to meet military requirements for the duration of such emergency. Title II: National Strategic Petroleum Reserve (Civilian) Act - Creates a National Strategic Energy Reserve (civilian) and authorizes the President to: (1) acquire by purchase, condemnation, or otherwise lands or interests therein for the location of storage and related facilities; and (2) establish an Industrial Strategic Petroleum Reserve as part of the National Strategic Petroleum Reserve (civilian) by requiring any person engaged in the importation or refining of petroleum to acquire, store, and maintain petroleum reserves under such terms as the President deems necessary. Authorizes the President, upon a finding that the national security is threatened, to use, sell, or otherwise dispose of all or any part of the government owned portion of the National Strategic Petroleum Reserve (civilian) and order the disposition and allocation of all or any part of the Industrial Strategic Petroleum Reserve (civilian) portion of the National Strategic Petroleum Reserve (civilian). Requires the President, within one year after the date of enactment of this title, to prepare and submit to Congress a report setting forth those actions taken under this title and his plans for providing a strategic energy reserve system in accordance with this title. Title III: Amendments to the Natural Gas Act - States that the provisions of the Natural Gas Act, other than as specifically provided in such Act, shall not apply to sales or deliveries in interstate commerce by any person of natural gas: (1) which is dedicated to interstate commerce for the first time on or after January 1, 1975; (2) which is continued in interstate commerce after the expiration of a contract by its own terms for the sale or delivery of such natural gas existing as of such date; or (3) which is produced from wells commenced after such date. Defines "new natural gas" and declares that the Federal Power Commission shall have no power to disallow in the rates and charges made by any natural gas company the amounts paid for new natural gas, except as provided by this title. Title IV: Extension of and Amendments to the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act - Provides, under the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act, that the Federal Energy Administrator shall, by order, prohibit any powerplant, and may, by order, prohibit any major fuel burning installation, other than a powerplant, from burning natural gas or petroleum products as its primary energy source if such plant or installation had on June 22, 1974, or thereafter acquires, the capability to burn coal. Title V: Clean Air Act Amendments - Provides that the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall extend for a period ending not later than January 1, 1985, any stationary source fuel or emission limitation respecting emissions of sulfur oxides from a powerplant using coal as its primary energy source, if he finds that such powerplant can apply interim measures which provide a means for attaining and maintaining national primary ambient air quality standards for sulfur oxides. Requires the Administrator to give notice to the public and afford an opportunity for oral and written presentation of data, views, and arguments before issuing any compliance date extension. Provides, under the Clean Air Act, that regulations applicable to emmissions of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons from light-duty vehicles and engines manufactured during model years 1971 through 1981, inclusive, shall contain standards equivalent to the emission standards for those pollutants that apply to new vehicles and engines offered for sale in the State of California during the model year 1975. Declares that during or after model year 1982, such regulations shall be established at such levels as the Administrator determines is appropriate considering specified factors, including air quality and energy efficiency. States that the owner or operator of a "new source" of emissions may request the Administrator for authorization to attempt to meet applicable performance standards by means of a system or systems of emission reduction which have not been determined by the Administrator to be adequately demonstrated. Provides that upon application by the Governor of a State on or after June 1, 1976, the Administrator may extend for not more than five years the deadline for attainment of national primary ambient air quality standards where transportation control measures are necessary for the attainment of such standards and where their implementation would have serious adverse social or economic consequences. States that where the Administrator denies an extension application, he may, after consultation with the appropriate State and local elected officials, propose and promulgate an implementation plan meeting the specified requirements. Authorizes the Administrator to request the Attorney General to commence a civil action for appropriate relief for violations of specified provisions of the Clean Air Act, including a temporary or permanent injunction, and a civil penalty of not more than $25,000 per day of violation, or both. Title VI: Amendment to the Clean Air Act - Provides, under the Clean Air Act, that nothing in such Act is intended to require or authorize the establishment by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency of standards more stringent than primary and secondary ambient air quality standards. Title VII: Utilities Act - Declares that shortages and unreliable supplies of electricity caused by the financial problems of the utilities now exist or are imminent and jeopardize the normal flow of interstate and foreign commerce by creating severe economic dislocation, including loss of jobs, and curtailments of vital public services. States that the purpose of this title is to set minimum standards for specified regulatory practices and procedures governing electric utilities and for making rates more reflective of costs. States that no regulatory authority (which is defined to include a State or local regulatory authority) may suspend or otherwise defer the operation of a utility's rate schedule properly filed with it and defer the use of the rate, charge, classification, or service established by such schedule for a period longer than five months from the date such schedule accompanied by all required supporting documentation is filed, or five months beyond the time when it would otherwise go into effect, whichever is later. Provides that no regulatory authority may prohibit or otherwise make unlawful the inclusion in a utility's rate base of reasonable and prudent expenditures associated with construction work in progress, provided that such authority may limit the annual amount to be included to the lesser of (1) 15 percent of the total rate base, or (2) the value which such construction work would have if otherwise includable in the rate base. States that no regulatory authority may prohibit the inclusion in a utility's rate base of capital costs associated with environmental control facilities and equipment required by Federal, State, or local law. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this title. Title VIII: Energy Facilities Planning and Development Act - Requires the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration, within one year after the enactment of this title, to prepare and submit to the President and to Congress a National Energy Site and Facility Report, which shall analyze short and long term energy needs and demand and indicate the number, type, and general location of energy facilities required to meet national energy objectives. Declares that such Report shall be developed in consultation with the States, industry, and other appropriate Federal agencies. Sets forth types of information the Report shall include. Provides for public hearings prior to the completion of the Report. Provides that, within one year from the issuance of the Administrator's Report, each State shall submit to the Administrator for approval an energy facility management program for long term energy facility planning and the achievement of energy production needs by the expeditious consideration and processing of applications to site, construct, and operate energy facilities. States that the Administrator shall hold at least one public hearing on the State's program within the State and shall approve or disapprove such plan in whole or in part within 120 days after the date of its submission. Allows any aggrieved party to bring suit to enforce an approved management program or promulgated State management program being administered by the State, in a appropriate Federal district court, or in any appropriate State court. Empowers the Administrator to make grants to the States for the purposes of assisting in the development of management programs. States that such authority shall expire on September 30, 1980. Directs the Administrator to encourage cooperative activities among the States regarding the siting and approval of energy facilities. Grants the consent of Congress for two or more States to enter into agreements or compacts for cooperative efforts and mutual assistance in selecting energy facility sites and approving energy facilities. Provides that the actual authority to approve or disapprove applications for energy facilities shall continue to reside in these Federal agencies possessing specific statutory authority over proposed energy facilities or their appendages. Sets forth the Administrator's duties and authorities in such approval process. Requires that a complete application for approval of a proposed energy facility other than a facility owned or to be owned by the Federal government shall be filed with the Administrator at least 18 months prior to the planned date of commencement of construction. States that the applicant for a facility may, under specified circumstances, commence construction prior to being notified by the appropriate lead Federal agency (designated on a case-by-case basis by the Administrator) that all Federal approvals have been obtained. Provides a judicial review process for persons aggrieved by a final order of a Federal agency granting or denying an application for energy facility approval. Title IX: Energy Development Security Act - Declares that the purpose of this title is to authorize and direct the President to adopt appropriate measures to prevent the prices of imported petroleum from falling to such levels that continued importation at such price levels would significantly deter the development and exploitation of domestic petroleum resources. Directs the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration, at the order of the President or upon his own motion, to determine: (1) whether the average price of petroleum imported into the United States has fallen significantly from average price levels for such imports during a recent representative period determined by the Administrator; and (2) whether such reduction in price is of such degree that it threatens the economic viability of the United States' petroleum production and development, or that it threatens to cause a substantial increase in petroleum consumption. Directs the President to impose restrictions for such time as he deems necessary to correct the conditions created by such circumstances, such restrictions to include, but not be limited to, the imposition of tariffs, quotas, and variable fees, unless he determines that such restrictions are contrary to the national interest. Title X: Building Energy Conservation Standards - States that the purposes of this title include redirecting Federal policies and practices so that Federal financial assistance for construction purposes is provided only under conditions which assure that reasonable energy conservation features will be incorporated into new buildings receiving such assistance. Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, within six months after the enactment of this title, and after consultation with the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration and the Secretary of Commerce, to develop and publish for public comment proposed prescriptive energy conservation standards for new residential buildings. Directs the Secretary to develop and publish proposed performance energy conservation standards for new commercial buildings. Provides that no Federal officer or agency shall approve any financial assistance for the construction of any building in any area of a State unless the State has certified that the unit of general local government having jurisdiction over such area has adopted and is implementing a building code or similar requirement which provides for the enforcement of any effective energy conservation standards or standards promulgated pursuant to this title. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to the States to assist them in meeting the costs of developing State building codes or State certification procedures to carry out the provisions of this title. Authorizes to be appropriated not more than $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1976 for such grants. Title XI: Winterization Assistance Act - Declares that the purpose of this title is to encourage the States to develop and implement winterization programs to insulate the dwellings of low-income persons, particularly the low-income elderly, in order to conserve energy and aid these persons least able to afford higher energy costs. Authorizes the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration to provide grants to the Governors of the various States and the Mayor of the District of Columbia to assist them in carrying out programs designed to provide for winterization of dwellings of low-income persons. Directs the Administrator to develop and publish criteria to evaluate State applications, such criteria to include: (1) the amount of fuel to be conserved by the State's winterization program and (2) the number of dwellings to be winterized by the State. Provides that the Administrator may not finally disapprove any State winterization program application without first affording the State reasonable notice and an opportunity for a hearing. Provides that no additional Federal funds may be granted if a State fails to comply with provisions of its approved application. Allows a State to appeal final action of the Administrator in the appropriate U.S. court of appeals. States that no person shall on the ground of race, color, national origin, or sex be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity funded in whole or in part with funds made available under this title. Requires the Administrator to submit to the President and Congress the results of winterization programs receiving Federal assistance under this title. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums not to exceed $9,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, and not to exceed $55,000,000 per year for each of fiscal years 1976, 1977, and 1978, to remain available until expended. Title XII: National Appliance and Motor Vehicle Energy Labeling Act - Declares it to be the purpose of this title to provide information to the public on the energy consumption characteristics of major appliances and motor vehicles so that consumers by comparing such characteristics when purchasing such major appliances and motor vehicles may select those that can effect savings in energy consumption. Authorizes the President to develop and promulgate energy conservation specifications for motor vehicles, room and central air-conditioners, refrigerators, freezers, clothes washers, dishwashers, clothes dryers, kitchen ranges and oven, water heaters, and comfort heating equipment. Gives interested persons 30 days after publication in the Federal Register of the notice of intent to promulgate or amend a specification to submit written comments on such specification, or such other time as the President finds is in the public interest. Requires each manufacturer of a product for which a specification and effective date has been promulgated to provide a label that meets and is displayed in accordance with the requirements of such specification. Provides that a specification may require the manufacturer or his agent to permit a representative designated by the President to observe and inspect tests performed on products under the terms of this title. Requires that advertisements for products covered under this title include all information about the product required by the specification applicable to such product. Declares it to be the intent of Congress that this title supersede any and all laws of the States or political subdivisions thereof insofar as they may now or hereafter provide for the disclosure of energy use or assumption, energy efficiency, efficiency ratio, or annual operating cost of any product if there is in effect and applicable any Federal specification with respect to such product. Grants the President the power to sign and issue subpenas for the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production of relevant books, records, papers, and documents. Requires that the President prepare and submit an annual report to Congress on April 1 of each year concerning the administration of this title. States that this title shall not apply to exports but shall apply to imports under regulations issued by the President. Makes it unlawful for any person to offer for sale in commerce any new product made after the effective date of an applicable specification unless there is provided with such product a label meeting the requirements of the specification. States that whoever violates any provision of this title shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than $10,000 for each violation. Gives U.S. district courts the power to grant injunctions to restrain violations. Title XIII: Standby Energy Authorities Act - States that the purposes of this title are to grant specific standby authority to impose end-use rationing and to reduce demand by regulating public and private energy consumption, and to authorize other specific temporary emergency actions to assure that the essential energy needs of the United States will be met in a manner which, to the fullest extent practicable: (1) is consistent with existing national commitments to protect and improve the environment; and (2) minimizes any adverse impact on employment. Allows the President to require by regulation, rule, or order, as a condition to any person engaging in commerce, and in the business of importing, producing, refining, marketing, or distributing petroleum, that such person maintain inventories of petroleum in excess of his normal business or operating requirements. Empowers the President to order the use, sale, disposal, and allocation of all or any part of inventories held pursuant to this Act in order to alleviate domestic shortages, and for other purposes consistent with this title. Authorizes the President to require measures to supplement domestic energy supplies, including: (1) production of specified designated existing domestic oil and gas fields at maximum practicable rates of production if necessary to meet the objectives of this title; and (2) the utilization of production on any oil and gas producing propoerties on federal lands. Gives the President the authority to provide for the allocation of petroleum for such purposes and to control the prices of petroleum allocated and to ration among classes of end-users of such product. States that the President shall provide for the making of such adjustments pursuant to the authority of this title as are practicable to prevent special hardship, inequity, or unfair distribution of burdens. Allows the President to promulgate by regulation one or more energy reservation plans which shall be designed to result in a reduction of energy consumption. Provides that the President shall transmit any energy conservation plan to each House of Congress on the date on which it is promulgated. States that actions taken under authority of this title shall not be arbitrary or capricious. Authorizes the President to encourage, support, and promote the planning and conduct of appropriate joint projects and cooperative programs in the United States and in foreign countries. Authorizes the President to restrict the export of coal, natural gas, petroleum products, and petrochemical feedstocks subject to the Export Administration Act. Makes it unlawful for any person to violate any provisions of this title or to violate any rule, regulation, or order issued pursuant to any provision and makes such violator subject to a civil penalty of not more than $5,000 for each violation. States that whoever willfully violates any provision of this title or rules issued pursuant thereto shall be fined not more than $10,000 for each violation. Makes it unlawful for any person to offer for sale or distribute in commerce any product or commodity in violation of an applicable order or regulation issued pursuant to this title. States that any person who knowingly and willfully violates this title after having been subjected to a civil penalty for a prior violation of the same provision shall be fined not more than $50,000 or imprisoned for not more than six months, or both. Authorizes the President to provide financial assistance in accordance with this title for the purpose of assisting eligible State or local energy conservation programs. Sets forth criteria for determining the amounts of financial assistance to be provided to each State. Provides that the authority under this title to prescribe any rule, regulation, or order shall expire at midnight June 30, 1985, but such expiration shall not affect any action or pending civil or criminal proceedings not finally determined on such date, nor any action or proceeding based upon any act committed prior to such time. Authorizes to be appropriated such funds as are necessary for the implementation of the provisions of this title.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1975
Authorizes appropriations of up to $2,500,000 for fiscal year 1976 and for each of the two succeeding fiscal years to the Secretary of Commerce for the promotion of tourist travel in the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1975
Establishes in the House of Representatives a Select Committee on Energy. Authorizes the committee to conduct a study with respect to all aspects of the exploration, research and development, production, importation, distribution, and use of all energy-related natural resources, including national priorities and policies with regard to energy.
![Official portrait of Rep. Skubitz, Joe [R-KS-5]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/s000472_200.jpg)