United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1975
Exempts, under the Internal Revenue Code, nonprofit volunteer firefighting or rescue organizations from the Federal excise taxes on gasoline, diesel fuel, and special fuels. Exempts such organization from the tax on communication services.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to convey specified lands at the Naval Air Station, Lakehurst, New Jersey, to the Airship Association as a site for an airship museum.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1975
Construction Industry Stabilization Act - Declares the finding of the Congress that the legal framework for collective bargaining in the construction industry is in need of revision. Makes it the purpose of this Act to establish a viable and practical structure for collective bargaining in the construction industry by establishing procedures for negotiations with a minimum of governmental interference in the free collective bargaining process. Establishes in the Department of Labor a Construction Industry Collective Bargaining Committee. Sets forth the membership of the Committee. Provides, under the National Labor Relations Act, that where there is in effect a collective bargaining agreement covering employees in the construction industry between a local construction labor organization or other subordinate body affiliated with a standard national construction labor organization, or between a standard national construction labor organization directly, and an employer or association of employers, neither party shall terminate or modify such agreement or the terms or conditions thereof without serving a written notice of the proposed termination or modification in the form and manner prescribed by the Committee at least sixty days prior to the expiration date thereof. Provides for the method of service of the notice required under this Act. Requires standard national construction labor organizations and national construction contractor associations to furnish to the Committee copies of all notices served upon them as provided by this Act. Provides that upon receipt of such notices the Committee may take jurisdiction of the matter by transmitting written notice to the signatory labor organization or organizations and the association or associations of employers directly party to the collective bargaining agreement within ninety days following the giving of such notice. Stipulates that upon specified conditions following the Committee's taking of jurisdiction, no new collective bargaining agreement or revision of any existing collective bargaining agreement between a local construction labor organization or other subordinate body affiliated with the standard national construction labor organization, and an employer or employer association shall be of any force or effect unless such new agreement or revision is approved in writing by the standard national construction labor organization with which the local labor organization or other subordinate body is affiliated. Sets standards for Committee action under this Act. Stipulates that the Committee shall take action under this Act only if it believes that such action would: (1) facilitate collective bargaining in the construction industry improvements in the structure of such bargaining, agreements covering more appropriate geographical areas, or agreements more accurately reflecting the condition of various branches of the industry; (2) promote stability of employment; (3) encourage collective bargaining agreements enbodying appropriate expiration dates; (4) promote practices consistent with appropriate apprenticeship, training and skill level differentials among the various crafts or branches; or (5) promote voluntary procedures for dispute settlement. Authorizes the Committee to promote and assist in the formation of voluntary national craft or branch boards or other appropriate organizations composed of representatives of one or more standard national construction labor organizations and one or more national construction contractor associations for the purpose of attempting to seek resolution of local labor disputes and review collective bargaining policies and developments in the particular craft or branch of the construction industry involved. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to carry out this Act. Stipulates that this Act shall take effect on the date of its enactment. Stipulates that this Act shall expire on February 28, 1981.
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1975
Construction Industry Stabilization Act - Declares the finding of the Congress that the legal framework for collective bargaining in the construction industry is in need of revision. Makes it the purpose of this Act to establish a viable and practical structure for collective bargaining in the construction industry by establishing procedures for negotiations with a minimum of governmental interference in the free collective bargaining process. Establishes in the Department of Labor a Construction Industry Collective Bargaining Committee. Sets forth the membership of the Committee. Provides, under the National Labor Relations Act, that where there is in effect a collective bargaining agreement covering employees in the construction industry between a local construction labor organization or other subordinate body affiliated with a standard national construction labor organization, or between a standard national construction labor organization directly, and an employer or association of employers, neither party shall terminate or modify such agreement or the terms or conditions thereof without serving a written notice of the proposed termination or modification in the form and manner prescribed by the Committee at least sixty days prior to the expiration date thereof. Provides for the method of service of the notice required under this Act. Requires standard national construction labor organizations and national construction contractor associations to furnish to the Committee copies of all notices served upon them as provided by this Act. Provides that upon receipt of such notices the Committee may take jurisdiction of the matter by transmitting written notice to the signatory labor organization or organizations and the association or associations of employers directly party to the collective bargaining agreement within ninety days following the giving of such notice. Stipulates that upon specified conditions following the Committee's taking of jurisdiction, no new collective bargaining agreement or revision of any existing collective bargaining agreement between a local construction labor organization or other subordinate body affiliated with the standard national construction labor organization, and an employer or employer association shall be of any force or effect unless such new agreement or revision is approved in writing by the standard national construction labor organization with which the local labor organization or other subordinate body is affiliated. Sets standards for Committee action under this Act. Stipulates that the Committee shall take action under this Act only if it believes that such action would: (1) facilitate collective bargaining in the construction industry improvements in the structure of such bargaining, agreements covering more appropriate geographical areas, or agreements more accurately reflecting the condition of various branches of the industry; (2) promote stability of employment; (3) encourage collective bargaining agreements enbodying appropriate expiration dates; (4) promote practices consistent with appropriate apprenticeship, training and skill level differentials among the various crafts or branches; or (5) promote voluntary procedures for dispute settlement. Authorizes the Committee to promote and assist in the formation of voluntary national craft or branch boards or other appropriate organizations composed of representatives of one or more standard national construction labor organizations and one or more national construction contractor associations for the purpose of attempting to seek resolution of local labor disputes and review collective bargaining policies and developments in the particular craft or branch of the construction industry involved. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to carry out this Act. Stipulates that this Act shall take effect on the date of its enactment. Stipulates that this Act shall expire on February 28, 1981.
United States · United States Congress · 8 September 1975
Prohibits discrimination based on sex or marital status with respect to the sale or rental of housing under the Civil Rights Act and the National Housing Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 September 1975
Authorizes the President to issue a proclamation designating Sunday, September 14, 1975, as "National Saint Elizabeth Seton Day" and calling upon the people of the United States to observe that day with appropriate ceremonies.
United States · United States Congress · 5 September 1975
National Commission on Regulatory Reform Act - Establishes the National Commission on Regulatory Reform. Directs the Commission to make a full and complete study of such regulatory activities of the independent regulatory agencies of the Federal Government as the Commission determines to be primarily economic in nature and to have a significant effect on the segments of the economy involving transportation, communication, the development and distribution of energy resources, or financial institutions. States that such study shall be undertaken to determine: (1) whether such regulatory activities have limited competition within such segments of the economy, and if they have, what the economic consequences have been, (2) whether such regulatory activities have, in other way, contributed to current economic difficulties, in particular inflation; and (3) whether changes need to be made with regard to such independent Federal establishments and their regulatory activites. Requires that such study shall include, with regard to each independent Federal establishment whose regulatory activities are included in such study: (1) an analysis of the purposes for which it was created, its structure and jurisdiction, the statutory framework governing its operation and activities, and the procedures and policies it has adopted; (2) an assessment of its effectiveness in carrying out its purposes; (3) an analysis of the costs and benefits of its various programs and policies, with particular reference to any adverse economic impact; and (4) an examination of the relationship between its regulatory activities and those of State and local regulatory agencies. Sets forth the membership, powers, and authority of the Commission. Directs the Commission to submit to the President and Congress within one year a report containing: (1) a statement of the status of the study being conducted pursuant to this Act; (2) a detailed statement of any findings made or conclusions reached by the Commission; and (3) any recommendations for legislation or administrative action, or both, deemed appropriate by the Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 3 September 1975
Provides, under title XX (Grants to States for Services) of the Social Security Act, that no State shall be required to administer individual means tests for provision of education, nutrition, transportation, recreation, socialization, or associated services provided thereunder to groups of low-income individuals aged sixty or older.
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 · 31 July 1975
Requires State and local governments, if they wish to qualify for funds under the State and Local Fiscal Assistance Act of 1972, to certify that no individuals are employed by them under conditions which do not conform to the conditions of employment, including minimum wage, recordkeeping, overtime pay, and others, described in the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Energy Industry Deconcentration Act - Prohibits any corporation or association from: (1) controlling deposits of more than one type of energy-producing mineral, after December 31, 1979 and (2) engaging engaging in more than one aspect of the petroleum and natural gas industry after December 31, 1979. Requires corporations or associations which would be in violation of this Act except for the effective date to submit plans for compliance to the Federal Trade Commission before January 1, 1978. Prohibits any individual from serving as a director of more than one company engaged in every resource production, refining, transportation, or marketing.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Natural Gas Production and Conservation Act - Defines terms used in this Act, including: (1) "affiliate" to mean any person directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by, or under common control or ownership with any other person; (2) "old natural gas" to mean natural gas dedicated to interstate commerce prior to January 1, 1975 with the determination or dedication to be the findings the Commission made at the time deliveries of such natural gas were first made; (3) "producer" to mean a person who produces and sells more than 10 million mcf of natural gas per year and who is not or does not qualify as a small producer; and (4) "user" to mean a person or governmental entity using natural gas after it is delivered in interstate or intrastate commerce. Provides that new natural gas may be sold or transferred in interstate or intrastate commerce by a producer or small producer at a price that does not exceed: (1) the national base price established by the Federal Power Commission or any relevant high-cost production base price established by the Commission plus; (2) an adjustment to the national base price or any high-cost production base price for inflation or deflation for new natural gas first delivered during the year for which such adjustment is applicable; (3) an additional annual price increase equal to 2 percent per year of the adjusted base price of such gas at the time of initial dedication or such higher annual adjustment as may be approved by the Commission to be necessary to cover increased costs of production and provide for a reasonable rate of return on investment to such producer; and (4) adjustments to increase or decrease the base prices at the wellhead for gathering services, removing impurities, quality adjustments, expenses incurred such as State or Federal production or severance taxes, and the uncompensated value of advanced payments made to the producer. Permits a producer of new natural gas that is liquified, regasified or synthetic natural gas, to charge a special price that is just and reasonable based on his costs of production. States that those producers who discovered natural gas on the Federal domain more than two years before the enactment of this Act and still have not comitted such natural gas reserves to a pipeline are not able to take advantage of the incentive new gas or exempt gas pricing provisions. Directs the Commission to establish the initial national base price at a level of not less than 40 cents per mcf nor more than 75 cents per mcf. Directs the Commission to review and reestablish the national base price and any high-cost production base price at five-year intervals after the date of their initial establishment. Sets forth the criteria to be used in establishing the initial national base price, any initial high-cost production base prices, and subsequent national and subsequent high-cost production price bases. Requires the Commission to establish any base price for new natural gas pursuant to the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedures Act. Permits the pass-through on a dollar-for-dollar basis of the cost of all new natural gas and exempt natural gas incurred by any pipeline unless such costs exceed the applicable price permitted under this Act. States that after the date of enactment of this Act, all sales of natural gas in interstate commerce that are not sales of old natural gas must comply with the provisions of this Act concerning new natural gas, unless such gas is exempt gas sold by a producer or small producer who qualifies as an independent. Allows a small producer to sell new natural gas in interstate or intrastate commerce at a price that exceeds the price authorized to be charged by a producer so long as such price does not exceed the applicable national or high-cost reproduction price by more than 50 percent. Provides that a producer or small producer which qualifies as an independent may charge any price for exempt natural gas on or after the date of enactment of this Act if such price does not exceed the average price of new domestic crude oil on the date such exempt natural gas is first dedicated. Requires all purchasers to file with the Commission all new natural gas and exempt natural gas sales contracts, transfer agreements, or any other transfer arrangements. States that with respect to old natural gas, the Commission is directed not to authorize any increase in the price charged by a producer or small producer except under enumerated circumstances. Requires all pipelines to give first priority for sales or transfers under the applicable tariff for old natural gas to local distribution companies to meet the requirements of each such local distribution company's residential users and small users to the extent old natural gas is available. Provides that sales of new natural gas or exempt natural gas by producers or small producers may be made without any application for a certificate of public convenience and necessity under the Natural Gas Act. Provides that, after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commission shall require all new natural gas pipeline transportation facilities on Federal lands to be common carriers available for use by any pipeline to transport natural gas upon payment of a reasonable transportation fee. Requires that natural gas producers on Federal lands undertake and complete exploratory and developmental programs to obtain maximum efficient levels of production at the earliest feasible date following the leasing of these lands. Requires that, after the date of enactment of this Act, all production of new natural gas or exempt natural gas from Federal lands shall be sold or transferred to a pipeline. Directs the Commission to conduct studies of production, gathering, storage, transportation, distribution and sale of natural, artificial, or synthetic gas. Directs the Commission to promulgate by rule a national plan to prohibit as soon as practicable the boiler fuel use of natural gas not initially contracted for prior to January 1, 1975 by users other than residential or small users. Prohibits any interruption or curtailment of natural gas service and requires necessary steps to assure as soon as practicable the availability in interstate commerce of sufficient quantities of natural gas for certain priority agricultural uses. Authorizes the Commission to declare a natural gas supply emergency within the service area of a pipeline which is unable or may be unable to supply its residential users, small users, hospitals, services and products vital to the public health and safety. Includes synthetic natural gas within the jurisdication of the Federal Power Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Provides for the coverage of a clinical psychologists' services under the supplementary medical insurance benefits program of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Congressional Public Financing Act - Adds a new subtitle to the Internal Revenue Code: the Congressional Election Campaign Fund Act. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to maintain in the Presidential Election Campaign Fund a separate account to be known as the Congressional Election Payment Account. Directs the Secretary to deposit into the Congressional Election Payment Account that portion of the annual amounts designated by taxpayers on their income tax returns that equals the excess above 25 percent of the total amount made available in the last Presidential election. Authorizes the Federal Election Commission to conduct an examination and audit of the campaign contributions raised for purposes of obtaining matching funds and the qualified campaign expenditures made by all candidates for Federal office and official political party committees who received payments under this Act. Provides criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Provides for payments of funds in amounts matching the contributions received by candidates for the office of U.S. Senator or U.S. Representative. Imposes limitations on the amounts of such funds to be disbursed to any individual candidate, and restricts the uses to which such matching funds may be put.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Declares that a greater unity of the Atlantic Community would strengthen the common defense, assure more adequate energy resources and improve commerce. Establishes an eighteen-member delegation authorized to organize and participate in a convention attended by delegations from North Atlantic Treaty parliamentary democracies. States that the convention shall explore the possibility of agreement on the means to transform the relationship of such nations into a more effective unity based on federal principles. Provides for appointment of delegates to the convention. Allows the delegation to maintain a staff. Authorizes the appropriation of $200,000 to carry out the purposes of this joint resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 28 July 1975
Increases the Federal share of a rail service continuation subsidy under the Regional Rail Reorganization Act to 100 percent during each of the two fiscal years following the effective date of the final system plan, 90 percent during the succeeding fiscal year, and 70 percent for each fiscal year thereafter. Requires the United States Railway Association to analyze specific railroad branch lines for inclusion in the final system plan.
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 1975
Animal Welfare Act Amendments - Provides, under the Federal Laboratory Animal Welfare Act, that no animals shall be delivered to any intermediate handler or common carrier for transportation in commerce unless the animals are accompanied by a veterinarian's certificate certifying that the animals are sound and healthy. States that specified animals shall not be delivered for transportation if they are less than eight weeks of age. Provides that no intermediate handler or common carrier shall participate in any practice under which the cost of such animal or its transportation is to be paid and collected upon delivery of the animal to the consignee. Imposes civil penalties for violations of this Act. Makes it unlawful to transport in interstate or foreign commerce any live dog or animal trained to participate in dog or animal fighting ventures.
United States · United States Congress · 18 July 1975
Provides that the statutory limitations and restrictions on the corporate powers of national banking associations with regard to dealing in and underwriting investment securities shall not apply to all other nongeneral obligations issued or guaranteed by or on behalf of a State or any political subdivision thereof or agency of a State or any political subdivision thereof (except special assessment obligations and industrial revenue bonds) which are at the time eligible for purchase by a national bank for its own account, subject to specified limitations. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to submit an annual report to the Congress showing the extent to which the business of underwriting and dealing in State and local obligations is being carried on by commercial banks as compared with other banking institutions with a view to determining the effect of the amendment made by the first section of this Act on the institutional distribution of such business.
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1975
Exempts from the estate tax imposed under the Internal Revenue Code the lesser of: (1) $200,000 and (2) the value of the decedent's interest in a family farming operation operated continually by the decedent for at least five years prior to his death and which passes to a relative on his death. Provides for revocation of such exemption in the event that the successor transfers his interest or stops residing on the farm within five years of the death of his transferor. Provides, under the Internal Revenue Code, that farmland, woodland, or open land which comprises part of an estate may be valued, for estate tax purposes, as such rather than at its fair market value. Provides that real property which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places may be valued, for estate tax purposes, at its value for its existing use. Provides for the revocation of such lower evaluation and recapture of unpaid taxes with interest upon the conversion, rezoning, or removal of such land from the National Register of Historic Places.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish an outreach program under title XVI (Grants to the States for Aged, Blind, and Disabled) of the Social Security Act to assure that potentially eligible recipients of supplemental security income benefits will be fully informed of the availability of such benefits and the steps to be taken in obtaining them. Authorizes necessary appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 9 July 1975
Industrial Energy Conservation Act - States that the energy needs of United States industry are increasing consistently, although energy resources are limited, and that the conservation of energy is therefore necessary. Declares that rapid development and cost-effectiveness demonstrations, and widespread application by industry, of energy-efficient technologies can be facilitated by Federal financial assistance in the form of research, development, and demonstration projects and through incentives to companies that invest in such technologies. States that it is the purpose of this Act to stimulate the development of energy-efficient technologies in American industry. Defines terms used in this Act. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to establish and maintain a program for research, development and demonstration of energy conserving industrial technologies, including: (1) basic and applied research under the control of the Administrator; (2) the development by the Administrator or private persons of prototypes or demonstration models of energy conserving technologies; and (3) the making of grants to private organizations to facilitate the incorporation of such technologies into commercial operating industrial plants, such projects to be used as demonstrations for other industrial facilities. Sets forth priorities to be observed by the Administrator in determining the recipients of grants under this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to make loans and loan guarantees for the purchase, construction, operation or maintenance of energy-efficient equipment or facilities. Enumerates priorities to be observed in making or guaranteeing such loans, including: (1) the extent to which a loan recipient is located within a depressed industrial area, and will contribute to the economic recovery of such area; (2) the extent to which such loan or guarantee will foster the widespread adoption of energy conservant technology; (3) the extent to which modernization, rather than replacement, of existing equipment will contribute to the purposes of this Act; and (4) the extent to which small businesses will be able to participate in the benefits resulting from this Act. Sets forth regulations governing the administration of loans and guarantees made pursuant to this Act. Requires that at least 60 percent of the funds available for loans and guarantees be allocated to recipients in depressed industrial areas. Sets forth additional regulations pertaining only to loan guarantees made pursuant to this Act. Limits the outstanding indebtedness guaranteed under this Act to $500,000,000 at any one time. States that no guarantee shall be made under this Act after September 30, 1977. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 July 1975
Directs the National Labor Relations Board, under the National Labor Relations Act, to identify to the Comptroller General persons who have been found to have engaged in willful, flagrant or repeated unfair labor practices. Directs the Comptroller General to distribute the names of such persons to all agencies of the United States. Forbids, with a limited exception, the awarding of government contracts to such persons for a three- year period.
United States · United States Congress · 8 July 1975
Defines the term "periodical publications" for purposes of postal rate application. Authorizes the mailing of catalogs and course listings issued by institutions of higher education at second-class mail rates. (Amends 39 U.S.C. 3626)
United States · United States Congress · 8 July 1975
Provides that members of, and the general counsel of, the National Labor Relations Board shall serve until a successor has been appointed and qualified. Permits hearing officers to make recommendations regarding collective bargaining representation disputes subject to the National Labor Relations Act. Makes administrative changes in the operation of such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 1975
Provides, under title II (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act, that individuals receiving benefits thereunder may earn up to $7,500 per year without a reduction in the amount of benefits received. Removes the limitation on the amount of outside income allowed for individuals who have reached the age of 70. Directs the Secretary of Labor to prepare a Senior Citizens Price Index to be used in computing cost-of-living increases in benefits. Eliminates marital status as a factor in determining whether a recipient of Social Security benefits should have his or her entitlement reduced or terminated.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 1975
Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, in determining the extent to which the value of an individual's home is excludable for purposes of establishing his or her eligibility for supplemental security income benefits, to take into account regional variations in the market prices of homes and to make periodic adjustments reflecting changes in land and home values.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 1975
Allows individuals who have attained age 65 or who are disabled a refundable tax credit of up to $500, under the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, for property taxes paid by them on their principal residences or for a portion of the rent attributable to property taxes they pay for their principal residences during the taxable year. Reduces the credit available under this Act by 10 percent of the individual's adjusted gross income in excess of $9,000. Disallows the tax deduction for such taxes when a tax credit is taken.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 1975
Provides for the establishment on the basis of decennial censuses, of congressional districts composed of contiguous and compact territory for the election of Representatives to the Congress. Grants exclusive jurisdiction to the United States district courts to hear and determine controversies under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 1975
Historic Structures Tax Act - Provides, under the Internal Revenue Code, for the preservation and rehabilitation of historic structures by allowing a tax deduction under the Internal Revenue Code with respect to the amortization of the amortizable basis of any certified historic structure based on a period of 60 months. Specifies that no deduction shall be allowed for any expense or loss incurred as a result of the destruction of a certified historic structure. Limits deductions on structures erected upon a site which was occupied by a certified historic structure which was demolished or substantially altered. Allows the taxpayer to compute the depreciation deduction attributable to substantially rehabilitated property as through the original use of such property commenced with him. Permits deductions for transfer of the remainder or partial interests in property for conservation purposes.
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 1975
Provides that no veteran may be denied care or treatment at non-Veteran's Administration Hospitals under the CHAMPUS program for any service-connected disability solely because care or treatment for such disability is available at Veterans' Administration medical facilities. (Adds 10 U.S.C. 1086(f))
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 1975
Expresses the sense of Congress that the Secretary of Defense, in administering Public Law 94-11 which appropriates foreign assistance for fiscal year 1975, include in the $300,000,000 foreign military credit sales appropriated to assist the State of Israel, F-15 fighter planes, electronic countermeasures, and other sophisticated weapons necessary to insure the continued viability of Israel.
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1975
Authorizes the National Labor Relations Board to delegate to its administrative law judges its specified powers to prevent any person from engaging in any unfair labor practice, except that upon the filing of a request therefor with the Board by any interested person, the Board may review any action by an administrative law judge delegated under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1975
Emergency Housing Act - Title I: Stimulation of Housing Construction - Emergency Home Purchase Assistance Amendments - States that mortgages purchased by the Government National Mortgage Association under the Emergency Home Purchase Assistance Act may not have an interest rate in excess of 7 1/2 percent. Increases the total amount of mortgage purchases and commitments which may be made by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under such Act to $10,000,000,000. Requires that at least 80 percent of such funds be used to purchase mortgages having original principal obligations not exceeding $36,000. Authorizes the Secretary to purchase specified mortgages of multifamily residences not purchasable under present law. Title II: Emergency Mortgage Relief - Emergency Homeowners' Relief Act - States it to be the purpose of this Act to prevent widespread mortgage foreclosure and distress sale of homes resulting from temporary loss of employment and income through a program of emergency loans and advances and mortgage relief payments to homeowners. Sets forth as conditions for the extension of assistance under this Act: (1) that the holder of the mortgage has indicated his intention to foreclose to the mortgagor; (2) that mortgage payments have been delinquent for at last three months; (3) that adverse economic conditions have caused the mortgagor to become involuntarily unemployed or underemployed and to have incurred a substantial reduction in income as a result; (4) that there is a reasonable prospect that the mortgagor will be able to make the adjustments necessary for a full resumption of mortgage payments; and (5) that the mortgaged property is the principal residence of the mortgagor. States that assistance provided under this Act will be in the form of either: (1) emergency mortgage relief loans or advances of credit; or (2) emergency mortgage relief payments. Sets the limits of such payments at $250 per month for up to 12 months with one 12-month extension available. Provides that payments be repaid on such terms as the Secretary prescribes. Authorizes the Secretary to insure financial institutions against losses which they might sustain as a result of emergency loans or advances of credit made pursuant to this Act. States that the aggregate amount of loans and advances insured shall not exceed $1,500,000 at any one time. Authorizes the Secretary to make emergency mortgage relief payments to certain mortgagees on behalf of distressed homeowners. Establishes the Emergency Homeowners' Relief Fund on the books of the United States Treasury for making mortgage relief loans and payments pursuant to this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for the purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary and the Federal supervisory agencies with respect to financial institutions to take steps to encourage forebearance in residential mortgage loan foreclosures, and to request all mortgagees to give such agencies at least 30 days notice prior to instituting foreclosure proceedings. Directs the Secretary to report to Congress within 60 days after enactment and at 60-day intervals thereafter on the actions taken under this Act. Authorizes the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation to make such advances to any insured bank as the Corporation determines to be necessary to facilitate participation in the program authorized by this title.
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 1975
Railroad Right-of-Way Protection Act - Title I: Findings, Purposes, and Definitions - Makes Congressional findings, sets forth the purposes of this Act, and defines the terms used in this Act. Title II: Interstate Railroad System - Requires, within thirty days after the date of enactment of this Act, all rail carriers to provide the Secretary of Transportation and the Rail Services Planning Office with one copy each of the latest edition of all employees operating timetables, with related special instructions; all temporary and semipermament "slow orders" currently in effect; all other current restrictions on train operation not included in the preceding items; and a verified statement indicating the maximum speeds authorized on each and every rail line for freight and passenger trains at all times since January 1, 1935, including the dates between which such speeds were authorized. Requires additions, deletions, and changes in such information to be promptly forwarded to the Secretary and the Office within seven days after any such addition, deletion, or change is made. Provides that the initial Interstate Railroad System shall consist of all rail lines operated within the United States by domestic railroad companies which as of the date of enactment of this Act are subject to traffic usage of at least 10,000,000 gross ton-miles per year per mile of rail line. Sets forth a procedure for additions to, and deletions from, such System. Requires the System to promote and enhance the ability of rail carriers to provide modern, efficient, and economical interstate rail freight and passenger service. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of the Army to study the long term capital improvement needs of System rights-of-ways. Title III: Interstate Railroad Administration - Establishes, in the Department of Transportation, the Interstate Railroad Administration whose functions shall be to acquire, rehabilitate, maintain, and modernize the rail lines of the System so as to fully develop the potential of modern rail service in meeting the transportation requirements of the Nation. Requires the Administration to make quarterly and annual reports on its activities and finances. Title IV: Acquisition of Rail Lines by Administration and States - Permits any railroad company to convey to the Administration its right, title and interest in all its rail lines included within the System. Directs the Administration to convey rail lines deleted from the System to the State in which such rail line is located. Directs the Administration and the States to assume responsibility for the maintenance and rehabilitation of rail lines so acquired. Establishes, within the Treasury of the United States, a Rail Rehabilitation Trust Fund. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Trust fund $500,000,000 for each fiscal year beginning June 30, 1975, and terminating September 30, 1981. Stipulates that amounts in the Trust Fund shall be available for rehabilitating rail lines in the System in accordance with maintenance standards prescribed by the Secretary of Transportation, and for making grants to the States to rehabilitate State rail lines. Requires rail carriers operating over rail lines of the Administration to pay a user charge. Establishes a Rail Maintenance Fund in the treasury to provide funds for the maintenance of rail lines operated by the Administration. Directs that amounts received from the user charge be deposited in the Fund. Title V: Maintenance of and Access to Rail Lines of Railroad Companies - Requires rail lines in the System which are not conveyed to the Administration to be maintained in accordance with specified standards. Prohibits the abandonment of rail lines by railroad carriers without permission from the Interstate Commerce Commission. Title VI: Protection of Employees - Provides that no owner or operator of rail lines shall contract out any project for rehabilitation or maintenance work required by this Act of a value of over $450 per month in labor and materials which is normally performed by employees in any bargaining unit covered by a labor agreement between such owner or operator and any labor organization. Provides that owners and operators of rail lines shall take such action as may be necessary to insure that all laborers and mechanics employed by contractors and subcontractors in the performance of construction work financed with the assistance of funds received under this Act shall be paid wages at rates not less than those prevailing on similar construction in the locality as determined by the Secretary of Labor in accordance with the Davis-Bacon Act. Requires that protective arrangements be made for railroad employees in any transaction for access to rail lines, transfer of freight traffic, reduction of rail line capacity, or abandonment of rail lines. Title VII: Oversight and Enforcement - Establishes an Advisory Committee to: (1) monitor the activities of the Secretary, Commission, Administration, and States pursuant to this Act; and (2) submit to the Secretary a report evaluating the effectiveness of this Act in achieving the objectives thereof declared by the Congress. Provides that it shall be unlawful for any State or any rail carrier to disobey, disregard, or fail to adhere to the provisions of this Act or to any rule, regulation, order, or standard prescribed by the Secretary under this Act. Sets forth civil penalties for violations of the provisions of this Act. Authorizes appropriations of such sums as may be necessary to enable the Secretary to carry out the provisions of this Act and to perform any other related duties which may be imposed upon him by law. Title VIII: Miscellaneous Provisions - Exempts persons contracting for the joint use of railroad tracks and facilities from all prohibitions of existing law, including the antitrust laws of the United States insofar as may be necessary to enable them to enter into such contracts and to perform their obligations thereunder.
United States · United States Congress · 11 June 1975
Arts, Humanities, and Cultural Affairs Act - Title I: Arts and Humanities - Authorizes, under the National Foundation on the Arts and Humanities Act, the chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts to make grants to the American Film Institute. Authorizes, under the same Act, the Chairman of the National Endowment for the Humanities to establish a grants-in- aid program for existing and developing humanities programs in States which meet the standards set forth in such Act. Sets forth the requirements for applications by States for such grants. Sets forth the policy by which funds will be allotted to States under this Act. Establishes the minimum amount which will be allotted at $100,000. Provides for 100 percent funding of State programs in specified cases, and for grants to multi-State groups. Directs the chairman to withhold further grants or require repayment of grants already made when noncompliance by the State agency receiving such grants is discovered. Authorizes, under the National Foundation on the Arts and Humanities Act, the appropriation of $113,500,000 for fiscal years 1977 and 1978 and such sums as may be necessary for fiscal years 1979 and 1980 for programs of the National Endowment for the Arts. Authorizes, under such Act, identical appropriations for programs of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Authorizes, under such Act, the appropriation of up to $25,000,000 per year, each to the National Endowment for the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Humanities for each year through fiscal year 1980, for the purpose of matching donations made to each endowment. Title II: Museum Service and Exhibitions - Museum Services Act - Establishes an Institute for the Improvement of Museum Services within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Provides that such Institute shall consist of the Director of the Institute and a National Museum Services Board. States that the Board shall consist of fifteen members appointed by the President by and with the consent of the Senate and eight ex officio members as set forth in this Act. Sets forth the terms of office of the members of the Board. Provides that the Board shall have the responsibility for the general policies with respect to the powers, duties, and authorities vested in the Institute under this Act. States that the Director shall make available to the Board such information and assistance as may be necessary to enable the Board to carry out its functions. Provides that the Director shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and shall serve at the pleasure of the President and perform such duties and exercise such powers as the Board may prescribe. States that there shall be a Deputy Director who shall be appointed by the President and serve at his pleasure. States that the Deputy Director shall serve as Director during the absence or disability of the Director, or in the event of a vacancy in the office of Director. Sets forth a list of activities for which the Director, subject to the approval of the Board, is authorized to make grants to museums to increase and improve museum services. Provides that grants under this Act may not exceed 75 percent of the cost of the program for which the grant is made. Gives the Institute the authority to accept in the name of the United States grants, gifts, or bequests of money for immediate disbursement in furtherance of the functions of the Institute. Authorizes to be appropriated $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, and $30,000,000 for each of the succeeding fiscal years ending prior to October 1978. Authorizes to be appropriated an amount equal to the amount contributed to the Institute under this Act during such time period. Arts and Artifacts Indemnity Act - Authorizes the Federal Council on the Arts and Humanities to indemnify works of art, printed matter, other artifacts and objects and motion pictures or recordings which have educational, cultural, historical or scientific value, and whose exhibition is certified by the Secretary of State as being in the national interest. Sets forth the procedures to be followed in applying to the Council for the indemnification of works as provided by this Act. Pledges the full faith and credit of the United States to pay any amount for which the Council becomes liable under any indemnification agreement. Limits the coverage under this Act to loss or damage in excess of the first $25,000 out of a single incident. Directs the Council to issue regulations providing for prompt adjustment of all claims arising under valid agreements of indeminification, including the arbitration of the dollar value of damage not amounting to total loss. Directs the Council to certify the validity of all claims to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary: (1) to enable the Council to carry out its functions under this Act; and (2) to pay certified claims. Directs the Council to report annually to Congress: (1) all claims paid during the preceding fiscal year; (2) claims pending as of the close of such period; and (3) the total face value of outstanding contracts at the close of such year.
United States · United States Congress · 11 June 1975
Eliminates the requirement, under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, that annual reports with respect to the present value of employee pension benefit plan liabilities describe allocation by termination priority categories. Increases the period of time for determining as a variable the amounts necessary to amortize credits to the funding standard account from 5 to 30 plan years. Requires that changes in actuarial methods be taken into account in determining credits to the funding standard account. States that in situations where the assets of a plan are held by two or more trustees, each shall use reasonable care to prevent a co-trustee from committing a breach of fiduciary responsibility and they shall jointly manage the assets of the plan. Revises the standards and available procedures for determining when liability for the breach of a co-fiduciary attaches. Sets forth amended standards governing fiduciary responsiblity with respect to fund assets. Eliminates restrictions on specified fiduciaries to receive reasonable compensation for services rendered. Makes the development of a system under which risks with respect to contingent liability insurance are equitably distributed between the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation and private insurers discretionary with the Corporation. Requires the Corporation to make such insurance available for employers by September 1, 1975.
United States · United States Congress · 10 June 1975
Performance Rights Amendment - Provides, under the Copyright Act, for the establishment of a performance royalty. Gives exclusive rights to copyright holders to perform publicly for profit and to reproduce and distribute to the public, by sale or other transfer of ownership, or by rental, lease, or lending, any reproduction of a copyrighted work which is a sound recording. Limits the exclusive rights of the owner of a copyright to duplicate the sound recording in a tangible form that recaptures the actual sounds fixed in the recording, and to perform those actual sounds. Provides that these rights do not extend to the making or duplication of another sound recording that is an independent fixation of other sounds, or to the performance of other sounds, even though such sounds imitate or simulate those in the copyrighted sound recording; or to reproductions made by broadcasting organizations exclusively for their own use. Provides that where the copyrighted sound recording has been distributed to the public under the authority of the copyright owner, the public performance of the sound recording shall be subject to compulsory licensing. Establishes a compulsory licensing system whereby those who use sound recordings for profit would be required to pay a fee (performance royalty) to the copyright owner. Provides that such fees shall be placed in a fund out of which copyright owners are compensated. Specifies that the annual royalty fees, at the user's option, may be computed on either a blanket or a prorated basis. Allows the substitution of a negotiated license for the compulsory license at a rate not less than specified in this Act. Sets forth detailed payment requirements for royalties under the compulsory licensing provisions of this amendment. (Amends 17 U.S.C. 1; Adds 17 U.S.C. 33)
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 1975
Increases the Federal share of a rail service continuation subsidy under the Regional Rail Reorganization Act to 100 percent during each of the two fiscal years following the effective date of the final system plan, 90 percent during the succeeding fiscal year, and 70 percent for each fiscal year thereafter. Requires the United States Railway Association to analyze specific railroad branch lines for inclusion in the final system plan.
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1975
Terminates the existence of the Federal Metal and Nonmettalic Mine Safety Board of Review established pursuant to the Federal Metal and Nonmetallic Mine Safety Act. Grants the Secretary of the Interior authority to review mine closing orders which were previously reviewed by the Board. Makes final orders issued by the Secretary subject to the same judicial appeal procedures which Board orders were subject to. (Amends 30 U.S.C. 729-731)
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1975
Prohibits carriers of Federal employee insurance from reducing or excluding health benefits without such proposed changes being published in the Federal Register and without hearings by the Civil Service Commission on such proposed changes.
United States · United States Congress · 3 June 1975
Fair Marketing of Petroleum Products Act - Prohibits refiners or distributors of petroleum products from canceling, failing to renew, or otherwise terminating a franchise unless the retailer or distributor whose franchise is terminated failed to comply substantially with any essential and reasonable requirement of such franchise or failed to act in good faith in carrying out the terms of such franchise, or unless such refiner or distributor withdraws entirely from the sale of refined petroleum products in commerce for sale other than resale in the United States. Sets forth procedural and jurisdictional requirements for suits brought as result of violation of this Act. Prohibits a person who is a major market shareholder from commencing or expanding the operation of any distributorship or retail establishment whose personnel are under the control of such major market shareholder or entity controlled by such major market shareholder. Provides that any corporation which knowingly violates such prohibition on marketing expansion shall upon conviction be fined in an amount not to exceed $1,000,000.
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 1975
Intergovernmental Countercyclical Assistance Act - Declares it to be the policy of the United States and the purpose of this Act to make State and local government budget-related actions more consistent with Federal Government efforts to stimulate national economic recovery; to enhance the stimulative effect of a Federal Government income tax reduction; and to enhance the job creation impact of Federal Government public service employment programs. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to make emergency support grants to State and local governments to carry out the purposes of this legislation. Authorizes for each of 12 succeeding calendar quarters (beginning with the first calendar quarter after the date of enactment of this Act) $500,000,000 when the national seasonally adjusted unemployment rate reaches 6 percent plus an additional $250,000,000 for each whole percentage point over 6 percent of the national seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for the preceding calendar quarter. Provides that no funds would be authorized for any calendar quarter during which the national unemployment rate was under 6 percent. Provides that the Secretary of the Treasury shall reserve one-third of the authorized funds for distribution to State governments and two-thirds of the authorized funds for distribution to local governments. Directs the allocation of assistance to State governments. Specifies that State allocations would be made two-thirds on the basis of its unemployment and one-third on the basis of its adjusted taxes. States that in each case, the particular State's unemployment (in numbers) and its taxes raised would be compared to national totals, with the unemployment percentage weighted double. Provides for the allocation to local governments which would be made according to the same formula as for State governments-two parts unemployment and one part adjusted taxes raised. States that the Secretary shall allocate for the purpose of making emergency support grants to each identifiable local government. Specifies that grants under this program should be used for the maintenance of basic services ordinarily provided by the State and local governments and that State and local governments shall not use funds received under this Act for the acquisition of supplies and materials or for construction unless essential to maintain basic services. Establishes an application procedure for State governments and identifiable local governments eligible to receive assistance under this Act. Requires that each application shall: (1) include the applying government's program for maintenance, to the extent practicable, of levels of employment and basic services that it customarily provides; (2) in the case of a State government, provide assurance that it will not reduce the total amount of financial assistance, in dollars, which it provides to local governments within its boundaries; (3) provide that necessary fiscal control and fund accounting procedures will be established to assure proper disbursal of, and accounting for, Federal funds paid to State and local governments under this Act; (4) provide that reasonable reports will be furnished as the Secretary of the Treasury may require and that the Secretary of the Treasury has access to the records he needs to verify those reports; (5) provide that the nondiscrimination requirements of this legislation will be complied with; (6) provide that labor standards and wage requirements of this Act be complied with; (7) provide that the Act's requirements that governments receiving assistance under this Act report tax changes and changes in levels of services provided to the Secretary of the Treasury be complied with; and (8) provide that all funds received under this Act be expended by the recipient State or local government within 12 months of the time it is received. Provides that applications for payment of funds to other local governments shall be filed by the States. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to approve any application which meets the requirements of this Act within 30 days and to not finally disapprove, in whole or in part, any application for an emergency support grant under this Act without first affording the State or local government reasonable notice and an opportunity for a hearing. Requires that no person shall on the grounds of race, color, national origin, or sex be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under, any program or activity funded in whole or in part with employment made available under this Act. Provides that in any case where the Secretary of the Treasury makes a finding of discrimination by a State or local government and is unable to achieve compliance within 30 days, he is specifically authorized to defer payment to the discriminating jurisdiction unless compliance is achieved. States that laborers and mechanics employed by contractors on all substantial repair renovation construction programs funded under this Act be paid wages at rates not less than those prevailing on similar projects in the locality as determined by the Secretary of Labor under the Davis-Bacon Act. Directs that each State or local government which receives a grant under this Act shall report to the Secretary, within 30 days, any increase or decrease in any tax which it imposes and substantial reductions in employment levels or in services which that jurisdiction provides. Gives the Secretary of the Treasury the authority to make payments from the funds authorized under this Act. Allows payments to be made in installments, in advance or by way of reimbursement, with necessary adjustments on account of overpayments and underpayments. Provides that no funds be paid to any State or local government under this Act for any calendar quarter if the unemployment rate within that jurisdiction during the previous calendar quarter was less than 6 percent. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to withhold funds from any jurisdiction which fails to comply substantially with any of the provisions set forth in the application it submitted for funds under this Act. States that funds will continue to be withheld until the Secretary of Treasury is satisfied that compliance has been achieved. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to report as soon as practical after the end of each calendar quarter on the implementation of the program. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury, after consultation with the Secretary of Labor, to prescribe such rules as may be necessary to carry out this Act. Provides the Secretary of the Treasury with the authority to use services and facilities of any agency of the Federal Government and of any other public agency or institution in accordance with appropriate agreements and to pay for such services either in advance or by way of reimbursement as may be agreed upon.
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 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 · 22 May 1975
Requires the Postal Service to consult with agencies of State and local governments with respect to the construction of specified Postal Service facilities. Provides for hearing procedures with respect to proposals for such construction.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1975
Education for All Handicapped Children Act - States the findings of the Congress, including that: (1) the special educational needs of handicapped children are not being fully met; (2) one million of the handicapped children in the United States are excluded entirely from the public school system and will not go through the educational process with their peers; and (3) it is in the national interest that the Federal Government assist State and local efforts to provide programs to meet the educational needs of handicapped children. Describes the purposes of this Act, including to insure that all handicapped children have available to them special education and related services and designed to meet their unique needs. Defines the terms used in this Act. Directs the Commissioner of Education to make payments to States and local educational agencies for assistance in providing full educational opportunity to all handicapped children. Sets forth the method for determining the allotment from appropriated funds for local educational agencies. Lists additional requirements for State plans for education of handicapped children. Requires each State to form an advisory panel on education of the handicapped. Requires such panels, after October 1, 1978, to evaluate State educational programs and recommend remedies to any noncompliance with Federal requirements which is found. Requires any other Federal aid which is used for education of the handicapped to be used consistently with the provision of a free public and education for all handicapped children, and requires that handicapped children attending private schools as part of a State program to provide them with equal educational opportunity be provided with State supplied education and services. Sets forth standards for eligibility of local educational agencies. Directs State educational agencies to approve any application submitted by a local agency which complies with the eligibility requirements. Authorizes State educational agencies to bypass non-complying local agencies and use the allotment authorized for such local agency directly to provide special education and related services to handicapped children in the school district of such as local agency. Requires that, as soon as practicable after the enactment of this Act, the Commissioner shall prescribe uniform categories and accounting procedures to be utilized by State agencies in submitting an application for assistance under this Act in order to assure equity among the States. Authorizes the Commissioner of Education to make grants to State or local educational agencies to pay part or all of the cost of removal of architectural barriers to the handicapped in existing buildings and equipment.
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1975
Provides for the payment of a special housing allowance under the supplementary security income program of the Social Security Act to each recipient of supplemental security income benefits whose housing expenses exceed an amount equal to 25 per cent of his or her income, so as to reduce such expenses to that amount.
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1975
Establishes a procedure under the Internal Revenue Code by which an individual who is employed by more than one employer during a calendar year may file a certification with his employers at any time after the contribution and benefit base determined under the Social Security Act has been exceeded, in order to prevent the deduction of excess social security taxes from his wages. Sets forth the required contents of such certification. Authorizes employers who have received such certification not to deduct social security taxes from the wages of the certifying employee. Requires employers to make the necessary deductions from a certifying employee's wages when the employer determines that certification was filed before the requiredu contribution and benefit base was met. Establishes a penalty of up to 50 percent of the tax not withheld if an employee, by filing a certification, fails to pay a portion of the social security tax which he was required to pay for a given year.
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.
![Official portrait of Rep. Thompson, Frank, Jr. [D-NJ-4]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/t000200_200.jpg)