United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1977
Agricultural Research Act - States the findings of Congress that the Department of Agriculture should continue to serve as the lead agency in the executive branch for agricultural research. States the purpose of this Act to be the encouragement and facilitation of the development and maintenance of a unified Federal agricultural research policy upon which the overall Federal research effort can be used. Title I: Agricultural Research Policy, Research, and Education - Establishes in the Department of Agriculture a permanent Agricultural Research and Education Policy Advisory Committee, composed of 21 members, to advise the Secretary with respect to national agricultural research and policies, including priorities for basic and applied agricultural research, the administration of agricultural research and policies for education and training in agricultural research. Authorizes the Committee to establish subcommittees to review disciplinary and commodity research priorities, funding and administrative questions, and individual questions of research education and training. Authorizes the Secretary to establish an Agricultural Research Policy Analysis Institute to conduct research on matters of policy regarding all aspects of agricultural research and related matters. States that the Agricultural Research and Education Policy Advisory Committee shall serve as the Board of Directors of the Institute, which may have up to 20 full-time professional members. Designates the Department of Agriculture as the lead agency of the Federal Government to coordinate all agricultural research activities in other Federal departments and agencies, the land grant colleges, the State agricultural experiment stations, and research in the private sector. Establishes within the Federal Coordinating Council for Science, Engineering and Technology a Subcommittee on Food and Renewable Resources to review Federal research and development programs relevant to world food and fiber production and distribution, to promote planning and coordination of such research in the Federal Government and to recommend policies and measures concerning food and agricultural science for the consideration of the Council. Directs the Secretary to establish a program of competitive grants for agricultural research to be made to individual scientists and to institutions for research in four categories aimed at: (1) the discovery of new scientific principles and techniques applicable in agriculture and forestry; (2) the development of innovative products and technology in such fields as biological nitrogen fixation and photosynthesis; (3) the field of human nutrition; (4) the development of new crops, including guayule and jojoba. Requires the Secretary to give priority to research in those fields of basic and applied science promising advances and breakthroughs. Allows up to five percent of funds awarded in any fiscal year to be granted to support research conducted outside the United States. Permits the Secretary to require matching State funds for any research grants made. Repeals the existing requirement that at least 20 percent of grant funds distributed to the States be used by State agricultural experiment stations for marketing research. Transfers the administration of additional appropriations for agricultural colleges from the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare to the Department of Agriculture. Directs the Secretary to conduct a program of competitive grants and fellowships for merit to strengthen undergraduate, graduate and post-doctoral research in the agricultural sciences. Authorizes for each grant program established under this title specified sums to be appropriated for each fiscal year from 1978 through 1980 or 1982. Authorizes the Secretary to appoint a Committee on Agricultural Research Facilities to assist him in the compilation of a report to the President and the Congress on the status and future needs of agricultural research materials and facilities, including buildings and farms, plant, seed, genetic stock, insect, virus and animal collections, computers and laboratory instrumentation. States that the report shall include recommendations for a program aimed at providing the Nation with the most modern and efficient system of research facilities needed to advance agricultural research in all fields. Authorizes the Secretary to establish the National Agricultural Research Award, consisting of a grant not to exceed $50,000 per year for a period of not more than three years to support research or study by: (1) a scientists in recognition of outstanding contributions to the advance of agricultural science; and (2) a graduate student or post-doctoral research worker in recognition of demonstrated capability and promise. Requires the Secretary to submit to the President and the Congress an annual report containing an annually updated five-year national agricultural research plan, a review of progress made toward the accomplishment of planned goals, and a review of specified categories of agricultural research activities of the Department and their relationship to the related activities of other Federal, State and private agencies. Authorizes specified sums to be appropriated for existing agricultural research programs for fiscal years 1978 through 1982. Title II: Animal Health Care and Research - Directs the Secretary to establish an Animal Health Science Research Advisory Board to recommend priorities for the conduct of animal health research programs. Directs that funds appropriated for such programs be apportioned as follows: (1) four percent retained by the Department for administration and program assistance; and (2) 96 percent to go to accredited colleges of veterinary medicine and agricultural experiment stations in the several States. Requires the dean or director of each eligible institution to cause preparation of and to review project proposals which comply with the purpose and provisions of this Act. Sets the Federal contribution to any eligible institution at $100,000 in addition to amounts matching funds from non-Federal sources. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct a program of grants to assist States which do not have an accredited college of veterinary medicine in the construction of such, the employment of faculty, the acquisition of equipment and other necessaries. Specifies the formula by which funds appropriated shall be distributed to the States for these purposes. Authorizes for grant programs specified sums to be appropriated for fiscal years 1978 through 1982.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1977
Agricultural Research Act - States the findings of Congress that the Department of Agriculture should continue to serve as the lead agency in the executive branch for agricultural research. States the purpose of this Act to be the encouragement and facilitation of the development and maintenance of a unified Federal agricultural research policy upon which the overall Federal research effort can be used. Title I: Agricultural Research Policy, Research, and Education - Establishes in the Department of Agriculture a permanent Agricultural Research and Education Policy Advisory Committee, composed of 21 members, to advise the Secretary with respect to national agricultural research and policies, including priorities for basic and applied agricultural research, the administration of agricultural research and policies for education and training in agricultural research. Authorizes the Committee to establish subcommittees to review disciplinary and commodity research priorities, funding and administrative questions, and individual questions of research education and training. Authorizes the Secretary to establish an Agricultural Research Policy Analysis Institute to conduct research on matters of policy regarding all aspects of agricultural research and related matters. States that the Agricultural Research and Education Policy Advisory Committee shall serve as the Board of Directors of the Institute, which may have up to 20 full-time professional members. Designates the Department of Agriculture as the lead agency of the Federal Government to coordinate all agricultural research activities in other Federal departments and agencies, the land grant colleges, the State agricultural experiment stations, and research in the private sector. Establishes within the Federal Coordinating Council for Science, Engineering and Technology a Subcommittee on Food and Renewable Resources to review Federal research and development programs relevant to world food and fiber production and distribution, to promote planning and coordination of such research in the Federal Government and to recommend policies and measures concerning food and agricultural science for the consideration of the Council. Directs the Secretary to establish a program of competitive grants for agricultural research to be made to individual scientists and to institutions for research in four categories aimed at: (1) the discovery of new scientific principles and techniques applicable in agriculture and forestry; (2) the development of innovative products and technology in such fields as biological nitrogen fixation and photosynthesis; (3) the field of human nutrition; (4) the development of new crops, including guayule and jojoba. Requires the Secretary to give priority to research in those fields of basic and applied science promising advances and breakthroughs. Allows up to five percent of funds awarded in any fiscal year to be granted to support research conducted outside the United States. Permits the Secretary to require matching State funds for any research grants made. Repeals the existing requirement that at least 20 percent of grant funds distributed to the States be used by State agricultural experiment stations for marketing research. Transfers the administration of additional appropriations for agricultural colleges from the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare to the Department of Agriculture. Directs the Secretary to conduct a program of competitive grants and fellowships for merit to strengthen undergraduate, graduate and post-doctoral research in the agricultural sciences. Authorizes for each grant program established under this title specified sums to be appropriated for each fiscal year from 1978 through 1980 or 1982. Authorizes the Secretary to appoint a Committee on Agricultural Research Facilities to assist him in the compilation of a report to the President and the Congress on the status and future needs of agricultural research materials and facilities, including buildings and farms, plant, seed, genetic stock, insect, virus and animal collections, computers and laboratory instrumentation. States that the report shall include recommendations for a program aimed at providing the Nation with the most modern and efficient system of research facilities needed to advance agricultural research in all fields. Authorizes the Secretary to establish the National Agricultural Research Award, consisting of a grant not to exceed $50,000 per year for a period of not more than three years to support research or study by: (1) a scientists in recognition of outstanding contributions to the advance of agricultural science; and (2) a graduate student or post-doctoral research worker in recognition of demonstrated capability and promise. Requires the Secretary to submit to the President and the Congress an annual report containing an annually updated five-year national agricultural research plan, a review of progress made toward the accomplishment of planned goals, and a review of specified categories of agricultural research activities of the Department and their relationship to the related activities of other Federal, State and private agencies. Authorizes specified sums to be appropriated for existing agricultural research programs for fiscal years 1978 through 1982. Title II: Animal Health Care and Research - Directs the Secretary to establish an Animal Health Science Research Advisory Board to recommend priorities for the conduct of animal health research programs. Directs that funds appropriated for such programs be apportioned as follows: (1) four percent retained by the Department for administration and program assistance; and (2) 96 percent to go to accredited colleges of veterinary medicine and agricultural experiment stations in the several States. Requires the dean or director of each eligible institution to cause preparation of and to review project proposals which comply with the purpose and provisions of this Act. Sets the Federal contribution to any eligible institution at $100,000 in addition to amounts matching funds from non-Federal sources. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct a program of grants to assist States which do not have an accredited college of veterinary medicine in the construction of such, the employment of faculty, the acquisition of equipment and other necessaries. Specifies the formula by which funds appropriated shall be distributed to the States for these purposes. Authorizes for grant programs specified sums to be appropriated for fiscal years 1978 through 1982.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1977
National Energy Extension Service Act - Establishes an Energy Extension Service in the Energy Research and Development Administration to develop and implement a comprehensive program for the identification and application of energy conserving practices and techniques. Stipulates that programs shall provide for technical assistance and practical demonstration in the agricultural, commercial, residential, and small business sectors. Requires that the national program permit States to establish technical support institutes at colleges or universities as designated by the Governor of each State. Stipulates that such program shall be implemented in a manner designed to minimize conflict with existing services in the private sector of the economy. Establishes procedures and criteria for the development of State plans for implementing the provisions of this Act. Allows for Federal development of plans for States in which an acceptable plan has not been submitted. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to develop a comprehensive program and plan for coordination of Federal energy education and information dissemination programs. Stipulates that such plan shall detail procedures for assessing the energy efficiency of various Federal programs. Establishes a National Energy Extension Service Advisory Board to conduct a continuing review of the programs developed under this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 to carry out the purposes of this Act. Prescribes a formula for allocation of such funds to the States.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exempt certain corporations substantially owned by members of two or three families from the requirement that corporations engaged in farming use the accrual method of accounting.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1977
Amends the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954 to extend authority to finance agricultural commodity sales and to enter into commodity assistance programs to 1981.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Amends the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954 to revise the formula for allocation of food aid commodities to prohibit more than 25 percent of such aid from being allocated to countries which do not meet the poverty criteria of the International Development Association, with certain exceptions.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Earthquake Hazard Reduction Act - Directs the President to establish: (1) a coordinated National Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program; (2) an Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction; (3) a National Advisory Committee on Earthquake Hazard Reduction; and (4) an Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Board. Specifies the duties of the Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction, including developing and maintaining an Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program plan and staffing and assisting the National Advisory Committee. Directs the National Advisory Committee to review and advise the Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction regarding the progress, implementation, and coordination of the Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program. Enumerates the Federal agencies to be assigned responsibilities in the Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program. Details the elements of the Program, including physical studies; structural studies; social, legal and economic research; and practical application of knowledge concerning earthquakes. Directs the Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Board to evaluate individual earthquake predictions, compile and maintain a public record of the performance of prediction methods, and issue authenticated earthquake predictions if and when earthquake prediction becomes a sufficiently reliable science.
United States · United States Congress · 16 February 1977
Earthquake Hazard Reduction Act - Directs the President to establish: (1) a coordinated National Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program; (2) an Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction; (3) a National Advisory Committee on Earthquake Hazard Reduction; and (4) an Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Board. Specifies the duties of the Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction, including developing and maintaining an Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program plan and staffing and assisting the National Advisory Committee. Directs the National Advisory Committee to review and advise the Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction regarding the progress, implementation, and coordination of the Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program. Enumerates the Federal agencies to be assigned responsibilities in the Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program. Details the elements of the Program, including physical studies; structural studies; social, legal and economic research; and practical application of knowledge concerning earthquakes. Directs the Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Board to evaluate individual earthquake predictions, compile and maintain a public record of the performance of prediction methods, and issue authenticated earthquake predictions if and when earthquake prediction becomes a sufficiently reliable science.
United States · United States Congress · 16 February 1977
Earthquake Hazard Reduction Act - Directs the President to establish: (1) a coordinated National Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program; (2) an Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction; (3) a National Advisory Committee on Earthquake Hazard Reduction; and (4) an Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Board. Specifies the duties of the Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction, including developing and maintaining an Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program plan and staffing and assisting the National Advisory Committee. Directs the National Advisory Committee to review and advise the Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction regarding the progress, implementation, and coordination of the Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program. Enumerates the Federal agencies to be assigned responsibilities in the Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program. Details the elements of the Program, including physical studies; structural studies; social, legal and economic research; and practical application of knowledge concerning earthquakes. Directs the Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Board to evaluate individual earthquake predictions, compile and maintain a public record of the performance of prediction methods, and issue authenticated earthquake predictions if and when earthquake prediction becomes a sufficiently reliable science.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1977
Title I: Meat and Meat Products - Requires, under the Federal Meat Inspection Act, the package or container of any imported meat or meat products capable of use as human food to be labeled in such a way as to inform consumers that such product was imported. Requires that such products meet the same health standards as domestically produced meats. Requires testing of imported meat in the countries from which such meat is being imported. Directs that periodic tests be conducted in the United States by the Department of Agriculture also. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to prescribe such assessments and fees as he determines necessary to cover the Departments costs under this Title. Title II: Dairy Products - Prohibits the importation of dairy products into the United States unless the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare certifies the products as wholesome and pure. Requires the Secretary to establish standards for imported products comparable to standards imposed upon domestic dairy products. Directs the Secretary, where and to the extent necessary, to inspect imported dairy products and require such products to be accompanied by a certificate of compliance issued by the Secretary. Requires imported dairy products to comply with United States labeling and packaging requirements. Requires that imported dairy products be labeled in such a way as to inform consumers that such product was imported.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1977
Declares the support of the House of Representatives for the President's intentions (1) to proceed with a comprehensive nuclear test ban treaty, (2) to seek ratification of the SALT II agreement, and (3) to seek an agreement with the Soviet Union for major reductions in atomic weapons.
United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1977
Agricultural Research Act - States the findings of Congress that the Department of Agriculture should continue to serve as the lead agency in the executive branch for agricultural research. States the purpose of this Act to be the encouragement and facilitation of the development and maintenance of a unified Federal agricultural research policy upon which the overall Federal research effort can be used. Title I: Agricultural Research Policy, Research, and Education - Establishes in the Department of Agriculture a permanent Agricultural Research and Education Policy Advisory Committee, composed of 21 members, to advise the Secretary with respect to national agricultural research and policies, including priorities for basic and applied agricultural research, the administration of agricultural research and policies for education and training in agricultural research. Authorizes the Committee to establish subcommittees to review disciplinary and commodity research priorities, funding and administrative questions, and individual questions of research education and training. Authorizes the Secretary to establish an Agricultural Research Policy Analysis Institute to conduct research on matters of policy regarding all aspects of agricultural research and related matters. States that the Agricultural Research and Education Policy Advisory Committee shall serve as the Board of Directors of the Institute, which may have up to 20 full-time professional members. Designates the Department of Agriculture as the lead agency of the Federal Government to coordinate all agricultural research activities in other Federal departments and agencies, the land grant colleges, the State agricultural experiment stations, and research in the private sector. Establishes within the Federal Coordinating Council for Science, Engineering and Technology, a Subcommittee on Food and Renewable Resources to review Federal research and development programs relevant to world food and fiber production and distribution, to promote planning and coordination of such research in the Federal Government and to recommend policies and measures concerning food and agricultural science for the consideration of the Council. Directs the Secretary to establish a program of competitive grants for agricultural research to be made to individual scientists and to institutions for research in four categories aimed at: (1) the discovery of new scientific principles and techniques applicable in agriculture and forestry; (2) the development of innovative products and technology in such fields as biological nitrogen fixation and photosynthesis; (3) the field of human nutrition; (4) the development of new crops, including guayule and jojoba. Requires the Secretary to give priority to research in those fields of basic and applied science promising advances and breakthroughs. Allows up to five percent of funds awarded in any fiscal year to be granted to foreign scientists under certain conditions. Permits the Secretary to require matching State funds for any research grants made. Repeals the existing requirement that at least 20 percent of grant funds distributed to the States be used by State agricultural experiment stations for marketing research. Transfers the administration of additional appropriations for agricultural colleges from the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare to the Department of Agriculture. Directs the Secretary to conduct a program of competitive grants and fellowships for merit to strengthen undergraduate, graduate, and post-doctoral research in the agricultural sciences. Authorizes for each grant program established under this title specified sums to be appropriated for each fiscal year from 1978 through 1980 or 1982. Authorizes the Secretary to appoint a Committee on Agricultural Research Facilities to assist him in the compilation of a report to the President and the Congress on the status and future needs of agricultural research materials and facilities, including buildings and farms, plant, seed, genetic stock, insect, virus and animal collections, computers and laboratory instrumentation. States that the report shall include recommendations for a program aimed at providing the Nation with the most modern and efficient system of research facilities needed to advance agricultural research in all fields. Authorizes the Secretary to establish the National Agricultural Research Award, consisting of a grant not to exceed $50,000 per year for a period of not more than three years to support research or study by: (1) a scientist in recognition of outstanding contributions to the advancement of agricultural science; and (2) a graduate student or post-doctoral research worker in recognition of demonstrated capability and promise. Requires the Secretary to submit to the President and the Congress an annual report containing an annually updated five-year national agricultural research plan, a review of progress made toward the accomplishment of planned goals, and a review of specified categories of agricultural research activities of the Department and their relationship to the related activities of other Federal, State and private agencies. Authorizes appropriations for existing agricultural research programs for fiscal years 1978 through 1982. Title II: Animal Health, Care and Research - Directs the Secretary to establish an Animal Health Science Research Advisory Board to recommend priorities for the conduct of animal health research programs. Directs that funds appropriated for such programs be apportioned as follows: (1) four percent retained by the Department for administration and program assistance; and (2) 96 percent to go to accredited colleges of veterinary medicine and agricultural experiment stations in the several States. Requires the dean or director of each eligible institution to cause preparation of and to review project proposals which comply with the purpose and provisions of this Act. Sets the Federal contribution to any eligible institution at $100,000 in addition to amounts matching funds from non-Federal sources. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct a program of grants to assist States which do not have an accredited college of veterinary medicine in the construction of such, the employment of faculty, the acquisition of equipment and other necessaries. Specifies the formula by which funds appropriated shall be distributed to the States for these purposes. Authorizes appropriations for grant programs for fiscal years 1978 through 1982.
United States · United States Congress · 4 January 1977
National Energy Extension Service Act - Establishes an Energy Extension Service in the Energy Research and Development Administration to develop and implement a comprehensive program for the identification and application of energy conserving practices and techniques. Stipulates that programs shall provide for technical assistance and practical demonstration in the agricultural, commercial, residential, and small business sectors. Requires that the national program permit States to establish technical support institutes at colleges or universities as designated by the Governor of each State. Stipulates that such program shall be implemented in a manner designed to minimize conflict with existing services in the private sector of the economy. Establishes procedures and criteria for the development of State plans for implementing the provisions of this Act. Allows for Federal development of plans for States in which an acceptable plan has not been submitted. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to develop a comprehensive program and plan for coordination of Federal energy education and information dissemination programs. Stipulates that such plan shall detail procedures for assessing the energy efficiency of various Federal programs. Establishes a National Energy Extension Service Advisory Board to conduct a continuing review of the programs developed under this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 to carry out the purposes of this Act. Prescribes a formula for allocation of such funds to the States.
United States · United States Congress · 4 January 1977
Automotive Transport Research and Development Act - Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to establish a program to develop advanced automobile propulsion systems within five years of the date of enactment of this Act. Directs the Administrator to make grants for research projects designed to assist the furtherance of such program. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to evaluate and report the extent to which the automobile industry utilizes advanced automotive technology. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to test vehicles developed pursuant to the program established by this Act, in order to determine compliance with applicable standards under the Clean Air Act and the Noise Control Act of 1972. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to test such vehicles in order to determine compliance with applicable standards under the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966, the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act, and the Automobile Information Disclosure Act. Establishes contracting procedures consistent with applicable provisions of the Federal Nonnuclear Energy Research and Development Act of 1974 and the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to submit annual reports to Congress of activities pursuant to this Act, including results of economic surveys designed to evaluate the extent to which Federal guarantees of financial obligations may aid in developing commercial markets for advanced automobile technology. Amends the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 to require that efforts of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration be directed towards the development of advanced automobile propulsion systems. Authorizes the appropriation of $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 and $75,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 to carry out the purposes of this Act. Stipulates that no more than 60 percent of such appropriations shall be directly expended in Federal laboratories.
United States · United States Congress · 4 January 1977
Consumer Protection Act - Creates the Office of Consumer Protection, independent of the President and of the executive departments, and under the control and direction of the Consumer Counsel of the United States. Directs the President to appoint within the Office the Consumer Counsel and an Assistant Counsel, each with the advice and consent of the Senate, to hold office for a term of 15 years. Gives Congress the right to remove the Counsel or the Assistant Counsel at any time by joint resolution after notice and hearing when either has been inefficient or permanently incapacitated or guilty of neglect of duty, or for cause. Forbids any employee of the Office of Consumer Protection from engaging in other business inconsistent with the official responsibilities under this Act. Outlines the general authority of the Consumer Counsel, and subjects the Counsel to the civil service and classification laws. Directs each Federal agency to make its services, personnel and facilities available to the Office of Consumer Protection and, except when prohibited by law, to furnish information to the Office. Directs the Consumer Counsel to transmit an annual report to Congress and the President each January. Outlines the functions of the Office of Consumer Protection. States that its primary function will be to advise Congress and the President as to matters affecting the interests of the people of the United States as consumers, and to protect and promote these interests. Authorizes the Consumer Counsel to petition for, initiate, appear, or intervene in any investigation, complaint, action, or other proceeding before any Federal court or agency in behalf of interests of consumers. Permits the Counsel to intervene in proceedings or actions before State or local agencies and courts if not inconsistent with law or agency rules. Outlines the protection of consumers interests in administrative proceedings and requires every Federal agency to notify the Office of all its actions which substantially affect consumers. Directs the Office to receive, evaluate, act on, and transmit consumer complaints to all appropriate Federal or non-Federal entities. Directs the Office to maintain a public document room containing an up-to-date listing of all signed consumer complaints for public inspection and copying. Directs the Office to gather and disseminate to the public information concerning: (1) the functions and duties of the Office; (2) consumer products and services; and (3) problems encountered by consumers. Directs the Office to encourage public and private testing and research activities to improve consumer services, and to make recommendations to Federal agencies concerning this research. Directs the Office to periodically review products which have been tested. Directs the Office not to disclose to the public any information which would reveal trade secrets or other information which is privileged or confidential or under special protection of the law. Directs the Office to act under procedures of fairness and to provide all interested persons a reasonable opportunity to comment on proposed release of product test data, prior to release.
United States · United States Congress · 4 January 1977
National Agricultural Research Policy Act - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to coordinate and disseminate all agricultural research information affiliated with the Department of Agriculture, to keep abreast of developments in agricultural research and education and to represent the needs for such research and education within the executive branch of the United States Government. Establishes within the Department of Agriculture the National Agricultural Research Policy Advisory Board. States that the Board's responsibilities shall include: (1) establishing means for evaluating the economic, environmental and social impacts of research and extension programs; (2) reviewing programs, policies and goals of agricultural research agencies; (3) providing a forum for research-sponsoring agencies to exchange information on programs related to agriculture, food and nutrition; (4) recommending national policies, priorities and strategies for agricultural research and education; and (5) reviewing and making recommendations to the Secretary with regard to the allocation of funds for all programs of research and extension carried out by the Department. Directs the Department of Agriculture to establish a Clearinghouse for Federal Human Nutrition Research which shall collect from each Federal agency and report to Congress information pertaining to research with regard to human nutrition. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to land grant colleges and universities eligible for assistance under the First Morrill Act and the State agricultural experiment stations eligible for assistance under the Hatch Act to carry out mission-oriented basic research. Allows the Secretary to make grants on a competitive basis to Federal agencies, research institutions, organizations and individuals for agricultural research. Authorizes appropriations for the competitive grant program of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 and such sums as may be necessary for fiscal year 1979 and fiscal year 1980, the total amount for the three-year period not to exceed $150,000,000. Authorizes appropriations for human nutrition research of $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 and such sums as may be necessary for fiscal year 1979 and fiscal year 1980. Authorizes appropriations of $600,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 for those agricultural research programs existing prior to the enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 January 1977
Amends the Local Public Works Capital Development and Investment Act of 1976 to increase the amount authorized to be appropriated under such Act to $6,000,000,000.
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States Postal Service shall not close or suspend the operation of any post offices, unless there is a clear and compelling need to do so. Encourages the service to continue cost-cutting programs which do not affect levels of service.
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1976
Omnibus Energy Conservation Act - Title I: Energy Conservation in Residential Housing, Commercial and Public Buildings, and Industrial Plants - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish a voluntary standard and certification program for products designed to conserve energy in buildings. Directs the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration to prescribe guidelines for the development and preparation of State energy conservation implementation programs. Requires that States be given an opportunity to participate in the drafting of such guidelines. Establishes eligibility criteria for State energy conservation implementation programs in order to receive Federal assistance under this Act. Imposes a preliminary requirement that the State establish a State energy conservation advisory committee to assist in the formulation of such program. Authorizes the Administrator to provide Federal financial assistance to States whose proposed energy conservation programs meet specified criteria. Lists factors to be considered in determining the amount of such assistance. Stipulates that no State shall receive more than ten percent of the national total in each category of financial assistance. Authorizes the appropriation of the following sums to assist eligible State programs: $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, and $50,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980. Authorizes the Administrator to guarantee loans and other obligations issued to finance energy conservation measures consistent with the purposes of this Act. Limits the aggregate amount of outstanding guarantees under this Act to $4,500,000,000. Limits the total amount of guarantees which may be issued to any one borrower to $2,000,000. Requires annual reports to the Congress on State energy conservation implementation programs. Amends the Energy Conservation and Insulation of Buildings Act of 1976 to authorize additional appropriations of $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $50,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978 and 1979; and $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1980 to assist low-income persons under the provisions of such Act. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to assist in the financing of energy conservation measures. Authorizes appropriations for such assistance payments of $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, and $200,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978 - 1980. Amends the Small Business Act to empower the Small Business Administration to make loans to small business concerns for implementation of energy conservation measures. Limits the total amount of such loans under the Act to $300,000,000. Stipulates that the total amount of such payments to lending institutions under the Act shall not exceed $60,000,000. Title II: Implementation of Energy Conservation, Programs; Energy Efficiency Research, Development and Demonstration - Establishes in the Energy Research and Development Administration the Energy Extension Service. Directs the Service to develop and implement a comprehensive program for the identification, development, and demonstration of energy conserving practices, techniques, materials, and equipment for: (1) agricultural, commercial, and small business operations; and (2) new and existing residential, commercial, or agricultural structures. Requires that such programs include technical assistance, instruction, and practical demonstrations in energy conservation. Establishes procedures for submission of State plans for the conduct of energy extension service activities within each State in accordance with Federal guidelines. Authorizes financial assistance to States which have plans approved by the Director of the Energy Extension Service. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to prepare a plan for Federal energy education, extension, and information programs. Establishes a National Energy Extension Service Advisory Board to carry on a continuing review of Federal energy extension programs. Authorizes the Administrator of Energy Research and Development to provide financial assistance for the development of State and regional energy conservation research and development institutes on a matching basis. Directs the Administrator to establish an energy use efficiency project designed to demonstrate the feasibility of energy efficiency enhancement in the residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural sectors. Authorizes additional research, development, and demonstration programs to increase the commercial opportunities for utilization of energy efficient systems. Directs the Administrator to develop, within 180 days after the enactment of this Act, performance standards and criteria for energy efficiency equipment and processes. Requires use by Federal agencies of newly-developed energy efficiency technologies. Directs the Administrator to study various institutional factors which may tend to bias economic sectors against the use of energy efficient systems and to report the results to the Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 1976
Directs the Federal courts to consider, in their determinations of the imposition of terms of imprisonment for criminal offenses, the following factors: (1) the nature and circumstances of the offense and the history and characteristics of the defendant; (2) the need for the sentence imposed to reflect the seriousness of the offense and the providing of adequate deterrence to criminal conduct; (3) whether other less restrictive sanctions have been applied to the defendant frequently or recently; and (4) any sentencing guidelines established by the Commission under this Act. Establishes a United States Commission on Sentencing as an independent commission within the judicial branch of the United States Government to consist of five members appointed by the United States Judicial Conference. Directs such Commission to promulgate and distribute to all Federal courts guidelines for sentencing consistent with this Act. Empowers the Commission to establish general policies and rules necessary to carry out this Act. Empowers the Commission to utilize the services and information of other Federal, State, local and private agencies with or without reimbursement therefor. Empowers the Commission to establish a research and development program for the purpose of: (1) serving as a clearinghouse and information center for the collection, preparation, and dissemination of information on Federal sentencing practices; and (2) assisting and serving in a consulting capacity to Federal courts, departments, and agencies in the development, maintenance, and coordination of sound sentencing practices. Empowers the Commission to devise and conduct a training program of short-term instruction in sentencing techniques for judicial and probation personnel and other persons connected with the sentencing process. Requires the Commission to report annually to the Congress, the Judicial Conference, and the President on its activities. (Adds 18 U.S.C. 3579, 3621, 3657, 3742, 3801-5)
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1976
Automotive Transport Research and Development Act - Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to establish a five-year program aimed at the development of advanced automobile propulsion systems which to the maximum extent practicable are flexible in the type of fuel used. Instructs the Administrator to take specified actions in furtherance of the purposes of this Act, including making contracts and grants for research and development with public and private agencies and persons and establishing a research, development, and demonstration program within the Administration. Requires the Secretary of Transportation to take specified actions to facilitate the propulsion systems program. Sets forth reporting requirements for the Administrator regarding activities conducted under this Act. Declares that Congress finds that the competence of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration in scientific and engineering systems should be directed toward the development of advanced automobile propulsion systems. Details provisions relating to disseminating information maintained by the Administrator under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1976
National Energy Extension Service Act - Establishes an Energy Extension Service in the Energy Research and Development Administration to develop and implement a comprehensive program for the identification and application of energy conserving practices and techniques. Stipulates that programs shall provide for technical assistance and practical demonstration in the agricultural, commercial, residential, and small business sectors. Stipulates that such program shall be implemented in a manner designed to minimize conflict with existing services in the private sector of the economy. Establishes procedures and criteria for the development of State plans for implementing the provisions of this Act. Allows for Federal development of plans for States in which an acceptable plan has not been submitted. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to develop a comprehensive program and plan for coordination of Federal energy education and information dissemination programs. Stipulates that such plan shall detail procedures for assessing the energy efficiency of various Federal programs. Establishes a National Energy Extension Service Advisory Board to conduct a continuing review of the programs developed under this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for the purposes of this Act. Stipulates that the annual authorization for such programs may be included in the annual authorization for nonnuclear programs of the Energy Research and Development Administration. Prescribes a formula for allocation of such funds to the States.
United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1976
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President shall seek the elimination of surety deposit requirements on vegetable protein products imposed by the European Economic Community. Provides that if the President shall fail to eliminate such requirements, he shall obtain full compensation for such actions under article XXIII of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.
United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1976
Peanut Act - Provides, under the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938, for a national acreage allotment of not less than 1,247,000 acres for the 1977 crop of peanuts. States that the farm yield for such crop shall be determined on a basis equal to 96 percent of the average actual yield per acre on the farm for the three highest yield years out of the five years preceding the year such yield determination is made. Provides that if peanuts were not produced on such farm in at least three years of such five-year period, the Secretary of Agriculture shall have a yield appraised at 90 percent of the yields established for similar farms. Establishes a farm marketing quota for such peanut crop equal to the quantity determined by multiplying the farm peanut acreage allotment by the farm yield. Sets forth economic penalties for the marketing of nonquota peanuts or the marketing of peanuts in a larger quantity or higher grade or quality than could reasonably be proved from the quality of peanuts or the grade acquired by handlers for marketing. States that only quota peanuts may be retained for use as seed on a farm and when so retained shall be considered as marketings of quota peanuts. Requires that all acreage planted to peanuts be measured and that the disposal of nonquota peanuts be supervised by area marketing associations designated pursuant to the Agricultural Act of 1949. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture under such Act to make price supports available to producers of the 1977 crop of peanuts through loans, purchases or other operations on quota peanuts at a net level of not less than 70 percent of the parity price as of April 1, 1977, and on nonquota peanuts at not more than 60 percent of the loan and purchase level for quota peanuts or 90 percent of the estimated value of peanuts for crushing, export, or both, whichever is lower. Directs the Commodity Credit Corportation to make warehouse storage loans available to marketing associations of specified producing areas which are selected and approved by the Corporation and which are operated primarily for the purpose of conducting such loan activities. Requires such associations to establish pools and maintain records by type for quota peanuts handled under loans and for nonquota peanuts produced without a contract between handler and producer. States that net gains on peanuts in such pool shall be distributed in proportion to the value of the peanuts placed in the pool by each grower. Provides that peanuts received under loan by such associations shall be offered for sale for domestic food and related uses. Sets forth the prices to be charged for such peanuts. Authorizes the sale for crushing or export of any peanuts received under loan which are not needed for domestic purposes. States that for the 1977 crop and subsequent crop of peanuts the Secretary shall permit the owner and operator of any farm for which a peanut acreage allotment is established to sell, lease, or transfer all or part of such allotment.
United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1976
Energy Efficiency Research, Development, and Demonstration Act - Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to establish an energy conservation research development and demonstration project. Directs the Administrator to promote basic research in areas related to energy use efficiency including development of low energy consumer products and redesign of industrial, commercial, and residential patterns to improve energy conservation. Directs the Administrator to enter into agreement for the demonstration of energy use efficiency by: (1) retrofitting significant numbers of existing houses and apartments; (2) construction of new dwellings with advanced energy efficiency design features; and (3) retrofitting and new construction of a significant number of energy efficiency systems in commercial, industrial agricultural, and governmental applications. Requires the development of performance standards and criteria for energy equipment and processes used in residential, commercial, agricultural industrial, and governmental applications. Directs the Administrator to disseminate information on improved energy efficiency uses to the public and to evaluate consumer reaction to energy efficiency and processes. Directs the heads of Federal agencies to introduce energy efficient processes into their departments as soon as possible. Establishes criteria for competitive procurement procedures in the purchase of such new processes. Directs the Administrator to study various institutional factors which effect energy use efficiency, including tax laws, administrative regulations, environmental, and capital related factors. Requires a semi-annual progress report to Congress with recommendations by the Administrator for future legislative action. Authorizes the appropriation of $60,000,000 for each fiscal year from 1977 through 1981 to further the purposes of this Act. Stipulates that amounts authorized but not expended during the first two fiscal years may be appropriated for any of the three succeeding fiscal years.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1976
Authorizes appropriations to the Environmental Protection Agency for fiscal year 1977 for environmental research, development, and demonstration activities in the following categories and amounts: (1) under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, $13,813,900; (2) health studies under the Public Health Service Act, $878,900; (3) under the Safe Drinking Water Act, $13,592,500; (4) under the Clean Air Act, $129,223,500; (5) under the Solid Waste Disposal Act, $9,278,900; and (6) under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, $89,779,300. Prohibits the transfer of more than ten percent of the total funds in one category to another category without the consent of Congress. Establishes procedures for obtaining the consent of Congress in such cases. Authorizes tranfers of an amount not to exceed ten percent of the total research budget for the Agency to other authorized Agency activities (except waste treatment works construction grants and overseas research programs). Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to prepare a comprehensive five-year plan for environmental research, development and demonstration. Requires a study of all aspects of the coordination of environmental research and development, to be chaired by the Chairman of the Council on Environmental Quality.
United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1976
Judicial Survivors Annuities Reform Act - Expands the annuity plan for widows and dependent children of U.S. judges to include the widowers of such officials and the widows, widowers, and dependent children of the Director of the Federal Judicial Center and the administrative assistant to the Chief Justice of the United States. Extends the definition of "dependent children" to include unmarried, full-time student children between the ages of 18 and 22. Directs that funds matching those made by the judicial officials participating in the plan be deposited to the credit of the Judicial Survivors' Annuity Fund established by this Act. Requires that if a judicial official resigns under conditions making such individual ineligible for a retirement salary, such individual shall receive a lump sum payment of all contributions made to such fund. Shortens the period of service necessary to vest rights in the annuity payments as a result of the participant's death while in office or receiving retirement salary from five years to 18 months. Increases annuities payable to children of participants. Raises the minimum and maximum annuities payable to the widow or widower of such officials in all instances of eligibility. Changes the basis of calculating a widow's or widower's annuity from the salary earned by the official during the five years preceding death to the salary earned during the three years of service in which the official's salary was the greatest; or, if the official served less than three years, to the salary earned during such service. Stipulates that any lump sum payment shall be made to specified beneficiaries and that such payment is a bar to recovery by any other person. Expedites payments to be made to an executor, executrix, administrator, or administrix of an annuitant when the annuity is terminated by the annuitant's death. Establishes on the books of the Treasury a Judicial Survivors' Annuity Fund. Requires, on the date this Act becomes effective, the transfer to such Fund of all moneys in the fund previously established by law for annuities for widows and dependent children of judges. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. (Amends 28 U.S. 376)
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1976
National Science Foundation Authorization Act - Authorizes the appropriation of $797,000,000 to the National Science Foundation for fiscal year 1977. Sets forth regulations with respect to the use of such funds. Authorizes the Foundation to continue the Alan T. Waterman Award for scientific research or advanced scientific study during fiscal year 1977.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1976
Authorizes appropriations under the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 and $20,000,000 for fiscal 1978. Authorizes appropriations for fire research and safety of $5,500,000 for fiscal year 1977 and $6,000,000 for fiscal year 1978. Prohibits the Administrator of the National Fire Prevention and Control Administration from conducting fire research without the specific authorization of the Secretary of Commerce. Stipulates that no commitment to obligate funds for the construction of any facility of the National Academy for Fire Prevention and Control shall be made unless the Congress approves.
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1976
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act - Authorizes the appropriation of designated sums to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for research and development programs, construction of facilities including land acquisition, and research and program management. Permits utilization of research and development appropriations for: (1) items of a capital nature which may be required at locations other than installations of the Administration for the performance of research and development contracts, and (2) grants to nonprofit institutions of higher education, or to nonprofit organizations whose primary purpose is the conduct of scientific research, for purchase or construction of additional research facilities. Sets forth further guidelines regarding the use and availability of funds appropriated pursuant to this Act. Specifies procedures where amounts designated for specific programs may be varied upward and whereby up to one half of one percent of the funds appropriated for research and development may be combined with $10,000,000 of funds appropriated for facility construction to construct or modify laboratories or other installations deemed by the Administration to be immediatley needed. Prohibits utilization of sums appropriated pursuant to this Act for: (1) any research or management program in excess of the amount specifically authorized for that program, (2) any program deleted by Congress from requests originally made, or (3) any program which has not been presented to either the House Committee on Science and Technology or the Senate Committee on Aeronautical and Space Sciences unless each such Committee has been given notice of any such proposed action and transmits written notice to the Administration that it has no objection. Directs the Administration to consider geographical distribution whenever feasible in allocating its research and development funds. Authorizes the Administration, when so provided in appropriation Acts, to enter into and to maintain a contract for tracking and data relay satellite services. Establishes an additional Associate Administrator for Advanced Research and Technology within the Administration. Revises the compensation of members of the Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel. Expresses the sense of Congress regarding the need for, and the construction, modernization, and availability of aeronautical test facilities. Declares that Congress finds that the general welfare of the United States requires application of the Administration's expertise to ground propulsion systems research and development.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1976
National Agricultural Research Policy Act - Declares that the purposes of this Act are to emphasize agricultural research as a distinct mission of the Department of Agriculture, to be certain such research is effectively coordinated, and to provide a mechanism for identifying the Nation's highest priority problems for agricultural research. Provides for an additional Assistant Secretary of Agriculture to be responsible for the agricultural research activities of the Department of Agriculture and to serve as co-chairman of the National Agricultural Research Policy Committee. Directs the Secretary to appoint a scientist to serve and report to such new Assistant Secretary and to act as Executive Secretary of such Committee. Establishes, within the Department of Agriculture, the National Agricultural Research Policy Committee. Specifies the membership of such Committee. States that the Committee's responsibilities shall include: (1) reviewing programs, policies and goals of agricultural research agencies; (2) providing a forum for research sponsoring agencies to exchange information on agricultural plans and programs; and (3) making recommendations to the Secretary of Agriculture regarding applications for funding of mission-oriented basic agricultural research. Requires such Committee to annually submit a report of its activities to specified committees of the Congress. Defines "mission-oriented basic agricultural research" as research on fundamental science topics with regard to which there is a basic need in existence for new knowledge that would be genrated by such research, has a strong potential for benefitting mankind and deals with more than an unproven concept. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to land grant colleges and universities eligible for assistance under the First and Second Morrill Acts and to State agricultural experiment stations eligible for assistance under the Hatch Act to carry out mission-oriented basic research. Allows the Secretary to make grants on a competitive basis to Federal agencies, research institutions, organizations and individuals for agricultural research, without regard to matching State funds. Authorizes appropriations of $50,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 and $250,000,000 for fiscal year 1979. Declares it to be the sense of Congress that Federal funding for existing agricultural research programs be increased by $250,000,000 annually.
United States · United States Congress · 19 December 1975
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish an Outer Continental Shelf Research, Development, and Resource Assessment Project to be managed by the Secretary through such office or agency within the Interior Department as he shall designate. Provides for the coordination of Federal agencies in the conduct by them of parts or aspects of the project within their particular competence. Requires the Secretary, acting through his designee, to: (1) assess the oil and gas resources of the Outer Continental Shelf on a continuing basis; (2) conduct research and studies with the assistance and participation of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service into the environmental effects of developing Outer Continental Shelf minerals; and (3) conduct a research, development, and demonstration program concerning better methods, procedures, and technology for predicting the existence of oil and gas resources of the Outer Continental Shelf. Directs specified Federal agencies to conduct related programs for the development and protection of the Outer Continental Shelf.
United States · United States Congress · 19 December 1975
Judicial Survivors' Annuities Reform Act - Expands the annuity plan for widows and dependant children of judges of the United States and of the Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts to include the widowers of such officials and the widows, widowers, and dependant children of the Director of the Federal Judicial Center and the administrative assistant to the Chief Justice of the United States. Extends the definition of "dependant children" to include unmarried, full-time student children between the ages of 18 and 22 years. Provides that funds matching those made by the judicial officials participating in the plan be deposited to the credit of the Judicial Survivors' Annuity Fund, established by this Act, and be paid to annuitants as required by this Act. Provides, that an official may receive credit for specified Federal service rendered prior to such officials enrollment in the Fund by paying a specified percentage of the salary received by such official during that period of service, plus interest. Adds that if such payment is made in installments, rather than in a lump sum, the first installment must be at least large enough to cover the last 18 months of such specified service and subsequent payments must be made at least once every 18 months until all installments have been made. Requires that if a judicial official resigns under such conditions which make him or her ineligible for a retirement salary, a lump sum payment of all contributions made to the fund by such official shall be paid to such official within a reasonable time period not to exceed one year after relinquishment of office. Shortens the period of service necessary to vest rights in annuity payments as a result of the participant official's death while in office or while receiving a retirement salary from five years to 18 months. Increases annuities payable to children of such participant under such benefits. Raises the minimum and maximum annuities to such official's widow or widower under all instances of eligibility. Permits inclusion of all military active duty served by a judicial official prior to assuming judicial responsibilities. Provides that creditable military service time does not include time for which credit has been allowed for retirement or retired pay under any other provision of law or any employment as a civil servant. Changes the basis of calculating a widow's or widower's annuity from the salary earned by the official during those five years prior to the judicial official's death to the salary earned during those three years of such service in which such official's annual salary was greatest, or if such judicial official has served less than three years, but more than 18 months, then during the total period of such service prior to his or her death. States that any lump-sum payment made to survivors of a judicial official will be paid to specified beneficiaries and that such payment is a bar to recovery by any other person. Expedites payments to be made to an executor, executrix, administrator, or administrix of an annuitant due when the annuity is terminated by the death of the annuitant. Requires that on the date this Act becomes effective, all moneys in the fund previously established by law for annuities for widows and surviving dependant children of judges be transferred to the Judicial Survivors' Annuity Fund established by this Act. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to ascertain from the Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts the amount of the level cost deficiency in the fund transferred by this Act on the date of transfer and to deposit such funds, in a single payment, into the Judicial Survivors' Annuity Fund. States that nothing in this Act shall be interpreted to cancel, abrogate, or diminish any rights to which an individual or his survivors may be entitled by virtue of his having contributed to the judicial survivors annuity fund under present law. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out specified provisions of this Act. (Amends 28 U.S.C. 376)
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 1975
Energy Extension Service Act - Establishes in the Energy Research and Development Administration the Energy Extension Service. Directs the Service to develop and implement a comprehensive program for the identification, development, and demonstration of energy conserving practices, techniques, materials, and equipment for: (1) agricultural, commercial, and small business operations, and (2) new and existing residential, commercial, or agricultural buildings or structures. States that such programs shall provide for technical assistance, instruction, and practical demonstrations in energy conservation opportunities. Authorizes the Service to establish energy extension service offices consisting of city offices, county agents, and technical staff assistants in order to accomplish the objectives of this Act. Provides for dissemination of advice and assistance by local offices by means of (1) specific studies and recommendations, (2) demonstration projects, (3) distribution of studies and instructional materials, (4) seminars, and (5) other outreach programs.
United States · United States Congress · 9 December 1975
Rehabilitation Act Amendments - Extends under the Rehabilitation Act, the authorization of appropriations for: (1) vocational rehabilitation services; (2) research and training; (3) grants for construction of rehabilitation facilities; (4) vocational training services for handicapped individuals; (5) special projects and demonstrations; (6) the National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults; (7) program and project evaluation; (8) secretarial responsibilities; and (9) the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board.
United States · United States Congress · 19 November 1975
Rice Production Act - Title I: Rice Allotments and Price Support - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, under the Agricultural Adjustment Act, to establish for each of the 1976 and 1977 rice crops a national acreage allotment of 1,800,000 acres. States that the national acreage allotment shall be apportioned, for each crop of rice, by the Secretary to farms and producers on the basis of allotments established for the 1975 crop. Provides for reserving a portion of the rice allotment for apportionment to new rice farms and new rice producers. Sets forth criteria for reducing or withdrawing entirely the rice allotment of a farm or producer which plants to rice less than the total acreage allotted to it for that crop. Defines exceptions to such criteria. Authorizes the Secretary to transfer for any year because of natural disaster all or a part of such rice acreage for any farm in the county or in any other nearby county on which one or more producers on the farm from which the transfer is to be made will be engaged in the production of rice and will share in the proceeds in accordance with such regulations as the Secretary may prescribe. Directs the Secretary to permit the owner and operator of any farm for which a farm acreage allotment has been established to sell or lease all or any part to any other owner or operator of a farm in the same administrative area, or to transfer all or any part of such allotment to any other farm owned or controlled by him in the same. Provides for the apportionment among the heirs of a rice producer of a farm rice acreage allotment of such producer in States in which the allotment is based on past production of rice. Provides for apportionment of acreage upon dissolution of a partnership in such States. Provides for the voluntary surrender to the county committee of a portion of a farm's rice acreage allotment. States that any acreage planted to rice in excess of the farm or producer acreage allotment in the crop years 1975 and 1977 shall not be taken into account in establishing farm or producer acreage allotments in any year following such period. Establishes, under the Agricultural Act, the price to be used in making payments on rice under the price support program. Sets the price for the 1976 crop at $8 per hundredweight, adjusted for economic and agricultural factors. Directs the Secretary to make loans and purchases on the 1976 rice crop available to producers who are in cooperation with the rice acreage allotment at a rate of $6 per hundredweight, as adjusted for economic and agricultural factors. Bases 1977 loans and purchases on the price paid in 1976 as adjusted. Directs the Secretary to make payments available to cooperators for each of the 1976 and 1977 rice crops. Sets forth criteria for determining the rate of such payments and the total amount of such payments to a cooperator. Directs the Secretary to provide for a set-aside of cropland for a rice crop if an excessive supply of rice for the marketing year under consideration is predicted. Authorizes the raising of specified crops other than rice on set-aside acreage. Limits to $55,000 the total amount of payments which a person shall be entitled to receive during a crop year under this rice program. Makes inapplicable to the 1976 and 1977 crops of rice those provisions of the Agricultural Adjustment Act which regulate the apportionment of the national acreage allotment and marketing quotas with respect to rice. Title II: Rice Research - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to carry out regional and national research programs with respect to rice for specified purposes, including: (1) to reduce fertilizer and herbicide usage in excess of production needs; (2) to develop varieties of rice utilization; and (3) to improve the resistance of rice plants to disease and to enhance their conservation and environmental qualities. Authorizes the appropriation of up to $1,000,000 for fiscal year 1976 to carry out such research. Title III: Miscellaneous - Provides, under the Agricultural Act, that for the 1976 and 1977 crops of rice, a cooperator shall be a person who has a rice acreage allotment, and, if a set-aside is in effect, who has set aside the acreage required.
United States · United States Congress · 7 November 1975
Authorizes the Governor of any State under the Social Security Act to request that payment for services rendered within that State be made in accordance with a single fee schedule applicable throughout such State. Stipulates that such fee schedule shall be proposed by the Governor of such State, and approved by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. Permits all physicians in any State to elect whether or not to participate in the program under this Act. Stipulates that payments to physicians who have not elected to participate in such program shall be made as though this Act had not been enacted. Requires that each fee schedule in effect and the names and addresses of all participating physicians be made available to the public. Directs under title XIX (Medicaid) of such Act that payment under title XVIII (Medicare) for services rendered in any State be made only if payment for the services involved under the State plan is made in accordance with such schedule to the extent applicable.
United States · United States Congress · 29 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 · 23 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 · 20 October 1975
National Science and Technology Policy and Organization Act - Title I: National Science Policy - Declares that the United States shall adhere to a national policy for science and technology which includes the following principles: (1) the continuing development and implementation of a national strategy for determining and achieving the appropriate scope, level, direction, and extent of scientific and technological efforts based upon a continuous appraisal of the role of science and technology in achieving goals and formulating policies of the United States; (2) the enlistment of science and technology to foster a healthy economy in which the directions of growth and innovation are compatible with the prudent and frugal use of resources and with the preservation of a benign environment; and (3) the development and maintenance of a solid base for science and technology in the United States. States the declaration of Congress that the Federal Government should maintain central policy-planning elements in the executive branch in mobilizing resources for essential science and technology programs, in securing appropriate funding for those programs, and to review systematically Federal science policy and programs and to recommend legislative amendments when needed. States that, in order to expedite and facilitate the implementation of the policy enunciated in this Act, the following coordinate procedures are of paramount importance: (1) Federal procurement policy should encourage the use of science and technology to foster frugal use of materials, energy, and appropriated funds; to assure quality environment; and to enhance product performance; (2) explicit criteria, including cost-effectiveness principles where feasible, should be developed to identify the kinds of science and technology programs that are appropriate for Federal funding support and to determine the extent of such support; (3) Federal promotion of science and technology should maximize quality of research, stability of scientific and technological institutions, and, for urgent tasks, timeliness of results; and (4) antitrust regulation should not preclude cooperation among competing firms in industrial research and development unless such cooperation is anticompetitive. Title II: Office of Science and Technology Policy - Presidential Science and Technology Advisory Organization Act - Establishes in the Executive Office of the President the Office of Science and Technology Policy. Provides for the appointment of a Director, four Assistant Directors, and other personnel. Specifies the functions of the Office, including to: (1) advise the President of scientific and technological considerations involved in areas of national concern; (2) evaluate the scale, quality, and effectiveness of the Federal effort in science and technology and advise on appropriate actions; (3) advise the President on scientific and technological considerations with regard to Federal budgets; and (4) assist the President in providing general leadership and coordination of the research and development programs of the Federal Government. Title III: The Federal Science and Technology Survey Committee - Establishes within the Executive Office of the President, and in association with the Office of Science and Technology Policy, a Federal Science and Technology Survey Committee. States that the Committee shall consist of from five to twelve members appointed by the President. Specifies the qualifications of the members of the Committee. States that the functions of the Committee shall be to survey, examine, and analyze the total context of the Federal science and technology effort including missions, goals, personnel, funding, organization, facilities, and activities in general. Stipulates that the life of the Committee shall be 24 months from the date of its first organizational meeting. Title IV: Miscellaneous - Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1975
Energy Extension Service Act - Establishes in the Energy Research and Development Administration the Energy Extension Service. Directs the Service to develop and implement a comprehensive program for the identification, development, and demonstration of energy conserving practices, techniques, materials, and equipment for: (1) agricultural, commercial, and small business operations, and (2) new and existing residential, commercial, or agricultural buildings or structures. States that such programs shall provide for technical assistance, instruction, and practical demonstrations in energy conservation opportunities. Authorizes the Service to establish energy extension service offices consisting of city offices, county agents, and technical staff assistants in order to accomplish the objectives of this Act. Provides for dissemination of advice and assistance by local offices by means of (1) specific studies and recommendations, (2) demonstration projects, (3) distribution of studies and instructional materials, (4) seminars, and (5) other outreach programs.
United States · United States Congress · 30 September 1975
Makes specified technical changes in the table of contents of the Federal Rules of Evidence. Renumbers provisions of such Rules. Makes spelling corrections and changes references under specified provisions. Revises the Rules of Criminal Procedure in order to provide that the authentication of foreign documents be done in accordance with the Federal Rules of Evidence. Makes specified changes in the discovery procedure provided under the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure.
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1975
Authorizes the Energy Research and Development Administration to provide additional assistance in the form of authorizing loan guarantees to any person who demonstrates a unique capability for converting fossil fuels to synthetic fuels. States that no loan guaranteed under this Act may exceed 75 percent of the cost of construction and operation of an initial demonstration project.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1975
Electric Vehicle Research, Development and Demonstration Act - Declares it to be the policy of the United States and the purpose of this Act to demonstrate the commercial feasibility of electric and hybrid vehicles for urban indiviual and business use, and to encourage research and development in new technologies for electric vehicles with wider applications, in order to promote long-range conservation of liquid fuel and reduce environmental pollution. Defines terms as used in this Act. States that a hybrid vehicle is one propelled by a combination of an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to initiate and provide for the conduct of research and development in areas related to electric and hybrid vehicles. Directs the Administrator to enter into such contracts as may be necessary and appropriate: (1) for the production, within one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, of significant numbers of urban passenger and commercial vehicles which have electric propulsion systems on conventional chassis; and (2) for the production, within three years after such date, of significant numbers of urban passenger and commercial vehicles which are specifically designed for electric propulsion as the primary power source. Directs the United States Postal Service, the General Services Administration, the Secretary of Defense, and the heads of other Federal agencies to arrange for the introduction of electric and hybrid vehicles into their fleets as soon as possible. Provides guaranties of loans made to small businesses for commercial development of electric and hybrid vehicles. Authorizes the appropriation of an amount not to exceed $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1976, $40,000,000 for 1977, $30,000,000 for 1978, $60,000,000 for 1979 and $20,000,000 for 1980; to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 9 July 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to release restrictions on the use of specified property conveyed to the city of Camden, Arkansas, for airport purposes, in 1954.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 1975
Bureaucratic Accountability Act - Title I: Rulemaking Involving Public Property, Loans, Grants, Benefits, or Contracts - Defines "rulemaking" for purposes of the Administrative Procedure Act to include Federal agency action on matters relating to public property, loans, grants, benfits, or contracts. Title II: Subpena Power - Requires each Federal agency to designate by rule the officers authorized to sign and issue subpenas. Provides that the employee who presides at the reception of evidence at an agency hearing may not: (1) consult a person or party on a fact in issue, unless on notice and opportunity for all parties to participate; or (2) be responsible to or subject to the supervision or direction of an employee or agent engaged in the performance of investigative or prosecuting functions for an agency. Title III: Payment of Expenses Incurred Before Agencies - Directs each Federal agency to pay to any interested person who participates in an agency preceeding the reasonable costs of such participation, including attorney fees, if the agency determines that such person is unable to pay such costs and that such person made a discernible contribution to promoting agency implementation of any law related to such proceeding. Title IV: Sovereign Immunity - Bars the Federal Government from invoking the defense of sovereign immunity in civil actions against Federal agencies in which the plaintiff seeks relief other than money damages. Title V: Enforcement of Standards for Grants - Directs each Federal agency which is authorized to make and administer Federal grants-in-aid to maintain a complaint procedure, as specified by this Act, for the receipt, consideration, and disposition of complaints from persons adversely affected by agency action on grant applications or grant distributions.
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 1975
Presidential Science and Technology Advisory Organization Act - Establishes in the Executive Office of the President the office of Science and Technology Policy. Makes it the duty of the Director of such office to be the President's chief policy advisor with respect to scientific and technological matters. Authorizes to be appropriated such amounts as may be necessary to carry out functions under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 1975
Consumer Protection Act - Finds that the interests of consumers are inadequately protected within the Federal Government, and are essential to the fair and efficient functioning of a free market economy. Creates the Office of Consumer Protection, independent of the President and of the executive departments, and under the control and direction of the Consumer Counsel of the United States. Directs the President to appoint the Consumer Counsel and his Assistant, each with the advice and consent of the Senate, to hold office for a term of 15 years. Gives Congress the right to remove the Counsel or the Assistant at any time by joint resolution after notice and hearing when either has been inefficient of permanently incapacitated or guilty of neglect of duty, or for cause. Requires the retirement of the Consumer Counsel or the Assistant at the age of 70 years. Allows an annuity after serving 10 years in office. Forbids any employee of the Office of Consumer Protection from engaging in other business inconsistent with his official responsibilities under this Act. Outlines the general authority of the Consumer Counsel, and makes him subject to the Civil Service and classification laws. Directs each Federal agency to make its services, personnel and facilities available to the Office of Consumer Protection and except when prohibited by law to furnish information to the Office. Directs the Consumer Counsel to transmit to Congress and the President an annual report each January. Outlines the functions of the Office of Consumer Protection, with its primary function to advise Congress and the President as to matters affecting the interests of the United States, consumers, and to protect and promote these interests. Provides that the Consumer Counsel, as a matter of right, may petition for, initiate, appear, or intervene in any investigation, complaint, action, appear, or other proceeding before any Federal court or agency in behalf of interests of consumers. Permits the Counsel to intervene in proceedings or actions before State or local agencies and courts if not consistent with law or agency rules. Outlines the protection of consumers' interests in administrative proceedings and requires every Federal agency to notify the Office of all its actions which substantially affect consumers. Directs the Office to receive, evaluate, act on, and transmit consumer complaints to all appropriate Federal or non-Federal entities. Directs the Office to maintain a public document room containing an up-to-date listing of all signed consumer complaints for public inspection and copying. Directs the Office to gather and disseminate to the public information concerning: (1) the functions and duties of the Office; (2) consumer products and services, and (3) problems encountered by consumers. Directs the Office to encourage public and private testing and research activities to improve consumer services, and to make recommendations to Federal agencies concerning this research. Directs the Office to periodically review products which have been tested. Directs the Office not to disclose to the public any information which would reveal trade secrets or other information which is privileged or confidential or under special protection of the law. Directs the Office to act under procedures of fairness and to provide all interested persons a reasonable opportunity to comment on proposed release of product test data, prior to release. Defines the terms used in this Act.
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.
![Official portrait of Rep. Thornton, Ray [D-AR-4]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/t000243_200.jpg)