United States · United States Congress · 20 February 1974
Provides for a mid-decade sample survey of population to be taken as of April 1, 1985, and every ten years thereafter. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to formulate the questions and type of information, subject to the approval of the appropriate committees of Congress, to be compiled in the decennial census and the mid-decade sample surveys not less than three years before the date of such census or survey. Allows the Secretary to submit, when circumstances necessitate, new questions during the remaining period before the decennial census or mid-decade sample survey. States that the geographic scope of each sample survey shall be the same as that of each decennial census.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1974
Designates specified lands in Alaska, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maine, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, and South Carolina within the National Wildlife Refuge System as wilderness areas. Designates specified lands in California and Montana within the National Forest System as wilderness areas. Provides that all primitive area classifications of areas herein designated as wilderness are abolished. Provides that the wilderness areas designated by this Act shall be goverened by the appropriate provisions of the Wilderness Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1974
Payments in Lieu of Taxes Act - States that, within two years after the date of enactment of this Act, each county shall elect whether it wishes to proceed under the terms of this Act to receive payments from the Federal Government equal to the real property taxes otherwise due from public lands within such county, or to continue to receive whatever payments such county is entitled to receive under any existing applicable Federal law providing for Federal payments for such county similar to those available under this Act or for payment to such county of part of the revenue derived from such public land. Establishes procedures for the appraisal of public lands. Provides that when any county within a State has elected to proceed under the terms of this Act, there shall be established for that State a State board of appraisal appeal. Provides that each board shall consider and decide any appeal from a county within the State relating to the appraisal of public land within such county. States that decisions of the board shall not be subject to judicial review unless arbitrary or capricious. States that, begining in the first complete fiscal year after the acceptance of such appraisal by both the county involved and the Administrator, the Secretary of the Treasury is authorized to pay annually to the State in which such county is located an amount equivalent to the State, county, and local real property taxes on public lands within such county, based on the tax rate applicable to similar private lands at the value arrived at under the appraisal conducted under this Act. Stipulates that nothing in this Act shall interfere with the right of State or local governments to levy possessory interests taxes on private owners of improvements made by private users on public lands. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to administer this Act and to make the payments authorized by it.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1974
Requires, under the Freedom of Information Act, that whenever either House of Congress, or, to the extent of matter within its jurisdiction: (1) any committee or subcommittee thereof, requests an agency or the President of the United States to make available information within its possession or under its control, the head of such agency or the President shall make the information available as soon as practicable, but not later than 30 days from the date of receipt of the request, unless the information is ordered withheld by the President in a signed statement that the information will be withheld and such statement sets forth a detailed explanation of the grounds upon which such withholding is based; or (2) an independent regulatory agency to make available information within its possession or under its control, the head of such agency shall make the information available as soon as practicable, but not later than 30 days from the receipt of the request. States that when either House of Congress and its committees, to the extent of matter within their jurisdiction, requests the presence of and information from an officer or employee of a Federal agency, that officer or employee shall appear and shall supply all information requested except information specifically ordered withheld by the President in a signed statement which sets forth a detailed explanation of the grounds upon which such withholding is based. Provides that an officer or employee of an independent requlatory agency shall appear and shall supply all information requested. Empowers either House of Congress and its committees to obtain information withheld by an agency head, the President or a witness in response to a request for information or testimony under the Act, by adopting a resolution stating that the information or testimony is needed for the exercise of a valid legislative or investigative function under the Constitution and that the national interest outweighs the grounds cited by the President for withholding the information or testimony, and authorizing counsel to file a civil suit in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia to obtain the information requested.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1974
States that it is the purpose of this Act to provide for the immediate and future protection and administration of public lands in the California desert within the framework of a program of multiple use, sustained yield, and maintenance of environmental quality. Establishes the California Desert Advisory Commission which shall consist of Federal and State representatives, representatives of the academic community, representatives of residents of the desert, and representatives of groups which make use of the desert and its resources for recreational, study, or business purposes. States that it shall be the function of the Commission to advise the Secretary of the Interior with respect to the program for the desert under this Act. Establishes the National Conservation Area of the California Desert to carry out the purposes of the Act. Gives the Secretary of the Interior responsibility for the preparation of a long-range program for the management, development, and use of the California Desert. Provides that such program shall include a plan, to be completed and reported to Congress within seven years from the date of enactment of this Act. Requires consultation with the Advisory Commission and with State organizations concerning such plan. Provides for an interim program to manage and protect the desert resources now in danger of destruction, and to provide for the public use of the desert. Authorizes the Secretary to acquire such lands or interests therein as he deems necessary to provide access to the facilities of the desert, to facilitate efficient and beneficial management of the desert. Empowers the Secretary to issue such regulations as he deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. Provides that all mining carried out within the conservation area shall be subject to such reasonable regulations as the Secretary may prescribe to carry out the purposes of this Act. States that such regulations shall provide for such measures as may be reasonable to protect the scenic, scientific, and environmental values of the California Desert against undue impairment.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1974
Provides, under the Freedom of Information Act, that whenever either House of Congress, any committee or subcommittee thereof, any joint committee of Congress, or the Comptroller General of the United States requests an agency or the President of the United States to make available information within its possession or under its control, the head of such agency or the President shall make the information available as soon as practicable, but not later than thirty days from the date of the request, unless the information is ordered withheld by the President in a signed statement that the information will be withheld and such statement sets forth the grounds upon which such withholding is based. Requires the presence of officers and employees of agencies upon request by Congress and committees. States that if an officer or employee believes that information which he is asked to testify upon or produce would properly be ordered withheld by the President, he may promptly so advise the House committee or subcommittee making the request, and his testimony or response may be deferred for a reasonable period, but not to exceed ten days, in order that the President may determine whether he wishes to execute a written statement withholding such information. Provides that upon denial of access to information the House of Congress, committee, or joint commmittee may determine that the information requested is needed for the exercise of a valid legislative or investigative function under the Constitution and that the national interest outweighs any possible jeopardy to the need of the President or agency head to obtain candid and forthright advice, and may pass a resolution empowering committee counsel or other designated counsel to file a civil suit in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia to compel the agency head, the President, or the witness to supply the requested information or testimony. States that the United States District Court for the District of Columbia shall have exclusive jurisdiction of any complaint filed by either House of Congress, any committee thereof, or any joint committee of the Congress. States that, notwithstanding any other provision of any other law, or of any Executive order, no officer or employee of the executive branch may withhold any information from either House of Congress or any committee or subcommittee if the information requested is relevant to any proceeding connected with the impeachment or subsequent trial of the President, Vice President, or any other civil officer of the United States. Penalizes any person who, under this Act, willfully and knowingly distorts, conceals, or covers up by any trick, scheme, or device a material fact, or makes any false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement or representations, or makes or uses any false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement or entry, by a fine of not more than $10,000 or imprisonment of not more than five years, or both.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1974
Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Act - Title I: Programs Downstream from Imperial Dam - Authorizes and directs the Secretary of the Interior to proceed with a program of works of improvement for the enhancement and protection of the quality of water available in the Colorado River for use in the United States and the Republic of Mexico, in accordance with the provisions of this Act. Directs the Secretary to construct, operate, and maintain a desalting complex, including: (1) a desalting plant to reduce the salinity of drain water from the Wellton-Mohawk division of the Gila project, Arizona, (2) the necessary appurtenant works including the intake pumping plant system, product waterline, power transmission facilities, and permanent operating facilities; (3) the necessary extension of the existing bypass drain to carry the reject stream from the desalting plant and other drainage waters to the Santa Clara Slough in Mexico, subject to arrangements made pursuant to this Act; (4) replacement of the metal flume in the existing main outlet drain extension with a concrete siphon; (5) reduction of irrigation return flows through acquisition of lands to reduce the size of the division, and irrigation efficiency improvements to limit return flows; and (6) regulation of Gila River floodwaters entering the division, including possible acquisition of private lands above Painted Rock Dam in Arizona. Provides that the desalting plant shall be designed to reduce the salinity of approximately one hundred and twenty-nine million gallons a day of drain water by a membrance process using advanced technology commercially available. Requires that the Secretary shall use sources of electric power supply for the desalting complex that will not diminish the supply power to preference customers from Federal power systems operated by the Secretary. Authorizes the appropriation of $153,500,000 to accomplish the purposes of this title. Title II: Measures Upstream from Imperial Dam - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to implement the salinity control policy adopted for the Colorado River in the "Conclusions and Recommendations" published in the Proceedings of the Reconvened Seventh Session of the Conference in the Matter of Pollution of the Interstate Waters of the Colorado River and Its Tributaries in the States of California, Colorado, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and Wyoming, held in Denver, Colorado, on April 26-27, 1972, under the authority of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Authorizes the appropriation of $121,200,000 to carry out this title.
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 1973
Federal Nonnuclear Research and Development Act - Establishes in the Executive Office of the President a Council on Energy Research and Development for nonnuclear energy sources. Provides for the establishment of an Advisory Board for nonnuclear energy research development to consult with the Council. Directs the Council to establish and maintain a national program of research and development in nonnuclear energy technologies and energy conservation adequate to fulfill the objectives of this Act. Enumerates the Council's objectives, including pursuit of research and development programs, development of methods for the conservation of energy, and investigation of the option and the capability for nonnuclear energy self-sufficiency for the United States. Directs the Council to formulate a comprehensive nonnuclear energy research and development plan for the Federal Government designed to advance the policies set forth in this Act. Enumerates those factors which shall be considered in such plan. Directs the Council to contract for research in energy conservation, with Federal agencies or with individuals or corporations in the private sector where appropriate. Provides that energy conservation research and development shall be pursued in the areas of transportation, residential and commercial uses, industrial uses, and electricity use, transmission, and storage. Provides that in developing proposals pursuant to this Act, the Council shall consider various forms of Federal assistance and participation, including joint Federal-industry corporations, contractual arrangements with public and private entities conducting demonstrations of new technologies. Provides that the Council shall promulgate regulations establishing procedures for submission of proposals to the Council for the purposes of this Act. Enumerates specific information which must as a minimum be included in such proposals. Provides that joint Federal industry corporations proposed pursuant to this Act shall design, construct, operate, and maintain full-scale operations which will demonstrate the technical, environmental, and economic feasibility of a particular unconventional energy technology. Prescribes the structure and composition of such corporations. Sets forth guidelines for competitive systems of price supports proposed pursuant to this Act. Provides for the establishment in the United States Treasury of a Competitive Research and Development Price Support Fund which shall be available to the Council for carrying out the price-support program authorized by this Act. Sets forth regulations for Congressional approval of Federal contributions with respect to proposals approved by the Council under this Act. Sets forth the patent policy with regard to projects contracted for, sponsored, or cosponsored by the Government pursuant to this Act. Authorizes and directs the Council on Environmental Quality to carry out a continuing analysis of the conduct of research and development of energy technologies. Authorizes the President to take such action as may be necessary to obtain or allocate materials which are or may be in critical supply and which are essential to the expeditious progress of energy research and development efforts. Authorizes the appropriation of $2,000,000 for the fiscal years 1974 and 1975. Authorizes $1,600,000,000 for the first two fiscal years of the Council's existence to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 1973
National Energy Research and Development Policy Act - Title I: Coordination and Augmentation of Federal Support for Research and Development of Fuels and Energy - States that the purpose of this Act is the development, within ten years, of the option and the capability for the United States to become energy self-sufficient through the use of domestic energy resources by socially and environmentally acceptable means. Establishes an Energy Research Management Project headed by a Chairman who shall serve as the Staff Director. States that the Management Project shall review the full range of Federal activities in, and financial support for, fuels and energy research and development, giving consideration to research and development being conducted by industry and other non-Federal entities, to determine the capability of ongoing research efforts to carry out the policies established by this Act and other relevant Federal policies. Directs the Chairman, in consultation with the Management Project, to: (1) identify opportunities to accelerate the commercial applications of new energy technologies in energy production by providing plants; and (2) conduct preliminary investigations and to explore potential cooperative agreements which may be entered into with non-Federal entities in order to develop recommendations for Federal participation or assistance in demonstrations of the technical feasibility and economic potential of energy technologies on a prototype or full-scale basis. States that in developing proposals pursuant to this Act, the Chairman shall consider various forms of Federal assistance and participation which may include but are not limited to: (1) joint Federal-industry corporations; (2) Federal assistance through contractual arrangements with non-Federal participants including corporations, consortia, universities, governmental entities, nonprofit institutions; (3) contracts for the construction and operation of Federally owned facilities; (4) Federal purchases or guaranteed price of the products of demonstration plants or activities; and (5) Federal loans to non-Federal entities conducting demonstrations of new technologies. Requires the Chairman, within ninety days of enactment of this Act, to promulgate regulations establishing procedures for submitting proposals for the purpose of implementing this Act. Establishes standards for the joint Federal-industry corporations proposed under this Act and sets forth a formula for determining the Federal share of the cost of each corporation. States that in evaluating proposed opportunities for particular research and development undertakings pursuant to this Act, the Chairman shall assign priority to those undertakings in which the urgency of public need for the potential results of the research, development, or demonstration effort is high, and it is unlikely that similar results would be achieved in a timely manner in the absence of Federal assistance. Provides that all research, development, or demonstration contracted for, sponsored, or cosponsored by the Government pursuant to this Act, shall require as a condition of Federal participation that all information resulting from Federally assisted research shall be made available at the earliest practicable date to the general public, including non-governmental United States interests capable of bringing about further development, utilization, and commercial applications of such results. Authorizes the appropriation of certain specified amounts for the fiscal years 1975 and 1976 to carry out the purposes of this Act. Title II: Geothermal Energy - Geothermal Energy Act - Declares it to be the policy of the Congress to encourage the commercial development of means to produce energy from geothermal resources and to facilitate such development by authorizing the Secretary of the Interior to guarantee loans for such purposes. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to guarantee loans made for the purposes of acquiring rights in geothermal resources and performing exploration, development, and construction and operation of facilities for the commercial production of energy from geothermal resources. Specifies the terms and conditions such loans must meet prior to guarantee. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into a contract to pay the lender the interest charges which become due and payable on the unpaid balance of any such loan if the Secretary finds that enumerated circumstances occur. Establishes in the Treasury of the United States, a Geothermal Resources Development Fund. Authorizes to be appropriated (1) to the fund not to exceed $50,000,000 annually, and (2) such amounts as may be required for the administrative cost of carrying out the provisions of this title. Authorizes the Secretary, acting through the Geological Survey, to: (1) carry out a plan for the orderly exploration of all forms of geothermal resources of the Federal lands; (2) conduct regional surveys that will lead to a national inventory of geothermal resources in the United States; (3) publish and make available maps, reports, and other documents developed from such exploration to facilitate the commercial development of geothermal resources; (4) make such recommendations for legislation; and (5) participate with the Atomic Energy Commission, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the National Science Foundation in research. Enumerates the activities in which the Atomic Energy Commission is directed to participate in furtherance of the purpose of this Act. Directs the Commission to coordinate such activities with the Department of the Interior. States the conditions precedent to entering into agreements under this Act. Authorizes the Commission to investigate potential agreements for the cooperative development of major facilities to demonstrate the production of energy from geothermal resources and to submit engineering and financial proposals to the Congress for consideration of authorization to proceed with implementation. Authorizes to be appropriated to carry out the purposes of this title: (1) $10 million for fiscal years 1974, 1975 and 1976 to the Secretary of the Interior; (2) $35 million for fiscal years 1974, 1975 and 1976 to the Atomic Energy Commission; and (3) such amounts as may be required in fiscal years 1974, 1975 and 1976 to NASA.
United States · United States Congress · 7 December 1973
Provides for the designation of specified lands in the Saguaro National Monument in the State of Arizona as wilderness. Provides that such lands shall be known as the "Saguaro Wilderness".
United States · United States Congress · 7 December 1973
Provides, under the Recreation and Public Purposes Act of 1926, as amended, for the sale or transfer of public lands to State and local governments for public recreation purposes.
United States · United States Congress · 30 November 1973
Provides that the compensation and other emoluments attached to the Office of Attorney General shall be those which were in effect on January 1, 1969 notwithstanding any other provision of law. Provides that any person aggrieved by an action of the Attorney General may bring a civil action in the appropriate district court to contest the constitutionality of the appointment and continuance in office of the Attorney General. Gives the United States district courts exclusive jurisdiction, without regard to the value of the matter in controversy, to determine the validity of such appointment and continuance in office. Provides that the Congressional franking privilege be applied to all matters which directly or indirectly pertain to the legislative process or to any congressional functions generally, or to the functioning, working, or operating of the Congress and the performance of official duties in connection therewith, and shall include, but not be limited to, the conveying of information to the public, and the requesting of the views of the public, or the views and information of other authority of government, as a guide or a means of assistance in the performance of those functions. Enumerates the kinds of mail that is frankable and the kinds of mail which are excluded from the franking privilege. Sets forth the persons to whom the franking privilege is extended. Provides that the frankability of mail matter shall be determined under the provisions of this Act. Provides that notwithstanding any other provision of law, the cost of preparing or printing mail matter which is frankable under this Act may be paid from any funds. Provides that notwithstanding any other provision of Federal, State, or local law the equivalent amount of postage on franked mail mailed under the frank of the Vice President or a Member of Congress, and the cost of preparing or printing such frankable matter for such mailing under the frank, shall not be considered as a contribution to, or an expenditure by, the Vice President or a Member of Congress for the purpose of determining any limitation on expenditures or contributions with respect to any such official, imposed by any Federal, State, or local law or regulation, in connection with any campaign of such official for election to any Federal office. Establishes in the House of Representatives the "House Commission on Congressional Mailing Standards." Provides that the Commission shall provide guidance and assistance in connection with the mailing or contemplated mailing of franked mail by those entitled to the franking privilege. Provides that complaints of abuse of the franking privilege be handled solely by the Commission and that notwithstanding any other provision of law, no court or administrative body in the United States or in any territory thereof shall have jurisdiction to entertain any civil action of any character concerning or related to a violation of the franking laws or an abuse of the franking privilege, except judicial review of the decisions of the Commission under this Act. Provides that the Commission shall prescribe regulations for the holding of investigations and hearings, the conduct of proceedings, and the rendering of decisions under this Act. Provides that in the Senate the Select Committee on Standards and Conduct of the Senate shall provide guidance and assistance in connection with the mailing or contemplated mailing of franked mail by those entitled to the franking privilege. Provides that any complaint filed by any person with respect to violation of the franking privilege shall be reviewed by the Committee. Provides that notwithstanding any other provision of law, no court or administrative body in the United States or in any territory thereof shall have jurisdiction to entertain any civil action of any character concerning or related to a violation of the franking laws or an abuse of the franking privilege until a complaint has been filed with the select committee and the committee has rendered a decision under this Act. Provides for reimbursement for franked mailings to the Poastal Service. Provides that those sections of this Act regarding the franking privileges of former Presidents and the spouses of former Presidents shall take effect as of December 27, 1972. Provides that the reimbursement provisions of this Act will be effective as of December 27, 1972.
United States · United States Congress · 28 November 1973
Ratifies and confirms the agreement made by the Secretary of the Interior to issue grazing permits for, and recognize the water rights of, the Gray family throughout the lifetime of the last surviving Gray partner, relating to the grazing of cattle within the confines of the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona. Authorizes and directs the Secretary to continue issuing such permits to the Gray partners throughout their lifetime, assessing grazing fees for such permits on the same basis as has been used in the past, and to issue permits for the development and management of any facilities required for good range management.
United States · United States Congress · 15 November 1973
Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act - Title I: Findings and Purposes - Declares that most of the nation's coal reserves can only be mined by underground methods. States that the purpose of the Act is to establish a nationwide program to prevent the adverse effects to society and the environment from surface coal mining. Title II: Control of Environmental Impacts of Surface Coal Mining - Requires surface coal mining operations to comply with the following requirements: (1) on steep slopes no debris or soil may be placed on the downslope, except soil from the initial cut, provided that the soil is shaped and graded to prevent slides, erosion, and water pollution, and is revegetated; (2) preservation of topsoil after excavation; (3) stabilization of mine wastes, including safety in retention of water wastes; and (4) minimal disturbance of the hydrologic balance at the minesite. Requires compliance with such standards 90 days after enactment for mines where overburden hasn't been removed. Requires, within 150 days of enactment, Federal enforcement of such standards until State standards are accepted, such enforcement to include mine inspection. Directs publication within 180 days of enactment of regulations covering surface coal mining and reclamation, setting standards for State programs. States that such regulations must meet approval of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator. Requires States, within 24 months of enactment, to submit programs for carrying out this Act, such programs to include a State regulatory authority capable of regulating surface coal mining, state laws providing for sanctions for violations of regulations, and a permit system for surface coal mining regulation. Demands that such State programs meet the approval of the EPA Administrator. Subjects State programs to approval of Secretary of Interior within 6 months. Requires implementation of a Federal program of surface coal mining regulation where States fail in such implementation. Directs States to designate as unsuitable for surface coal mining those areas where reclamation is impossible or where land is fragile or of historical value. Prohibits existing mining operations from being declared unsuitable. Permits State laws and regulations that are more stringent than this Act. Requires, six months after approval of a State program, that no surface coal mining shall take place except where a permit, good for five years, has been issued. States that permit applications must demonstrate ability and intent to comply with this Act, assurance that reclamation can be achieved, and that post-mining land use will be compatible with surrounding uses; and that permits won't be issued for land within 300 feet of occupied dwelling or within a park. Requires permit applications to describe the method of mining and equipment proposed to be used, to describe by maps the land to be affected, and to contain a statement of results of test borings or core samplings of the affected land. States that permits must be accompanied by a mining and reclamation plan which shall include a description of present uses of the land, steps to be taken to prevent environmental damage, and a description of the reclamation activities. Allows renewal of permits. Establishes general performance standards requiring: (1) extraction of coal sufficient to prevent future need for re-excavating the land; (2) restoration of the land to a condition to which it can support previous uses; (3) keeping reclamation current with mining operations; (4) restoration of approximate original contour of the land; (5) safety measures in dam construction and non-degradation of water quality in streams below dams; (6) restoration of topsoil and vegetation; and (7) limitations and mandatory notices on use of explosives. Differentiates standards for steep-slope and flat terrain mining. Authorizes only one-year permits for steep-slope mining. Allows exceptions to reclamation standards where a post mining use of the land differs from previous use, is appropriate, and begins within three years. Calls for regulations of underground coal mining that requires: (1) backfilling all mine wastes and tailings into mine voids, where possible; (2) permanent underground mine support; (3) sealing of entrances; (4) contouring and revegetation of wastes and tailings; and (5) safety standards in dam construction. Directs mine operators to have remedial programs to eliminate polluting discharge. Requires permit applicants to give notice to public bodies in the local area of their plans, and for such bodies to make public their comments. Gives any person with a valid legal interest the right to object to a proposed surface mining and reclamation operation. Allows public hearings on such objections. Establishes procedures for such hearings. Demands that permit applicants, whose permits have been approved, post performance bonds to assure that the requirements of this Act are met. States that such bonds shall not be less than $10,000. Provides that when an operator completes the backfilling, regrading, and drainage control of a bonded area, he may request a release of 60 percent of the bond. Provides that the remaining amount may be returned upon completion of all reclamation. Allows persons with a legal interest to file objections to release of bond, and for public hearings to follow. Prohibits suspension or revocation of a permit except with time for permitee to correct his violations and public hearing, if requested, provided that emergency threats to public health or the environment may justify suspension of permit subject to determination later if violation has occurred. Directs and authorizes inspection of surface coal mining and reclamation to determine compliance with this Act and regulations. Provides for requirement of record keeping and submittal and monitoring by mine operators. Requires surprise inspections by regulatory agencies not less than once a month. Allows, where State regulatory authorities don't exist or fail to act, for Federal enforcement of violations of this Act and of permit conditions. Permits issuance of an order to cease mining and reclamation. Provides for the Attorney General to institute civil suit for a restraining order or injunction to enforce this Act or regulations under it. Requires civil penalties upon violators of this Act or regulations under it. Permits any person to bring civil suit against any person, including the United States, alleged to be in violation of this Act. Empowers district courts to require the regulatory authority to enforce nondiscretionary duties under the Act. Allows the court to award costs of litigation to parties in suits brought under this Act. Permits the Secretary to intervene in actions under this Act. Requires implementation of a Federal lands program to all surface mining and reclamation operations on Federal land. Requires such program to, at least, adopt all requirements of this Act. Authorizes grants to Indian tribes to assist in development and administration of a mining control program for tribal lands. Allows an Indian tribe to have the Secretary administer its program under this Act. Demands separate regulations for programs for special bituminous coal surface mines that meet certain criteria, including some long-existing and especially deep mines. Title III: Abandoned Mine Reclamation - Creates the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund in the Treasury. Authorizes use of money in the Fund for acquisition and reclamation of abandoned and unreclaimed mined lands, for acquisitions and fillings of voids and sealing of tunnels and entryways in abandoned mines, and for the Secretary of Agriculture to use in entering agreements with landowners and tenants providing for control and prevention of erosion. Permits the Secretary to acquire land by condemnation for reclamation. Encourages States to acquire abandoned and unreclaimed land and to transfer it the Secretary for reclamation, and authorizes matching grants for such purpose, up to 90 percent of land price. Allows resale of reclaimed land by public bidding, and allows local public participation in determining use of reclaimed land. Title IV: Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement - Establishes in the Interior Department the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement with a director appointed by the President. States that such office shall administer the programs required by this Act and assist the States in development of State programs for surface coal mining and reclamation. Title V: A Program for Non-Coal Mine Environmental Impact Control - Requires States to implement programs for designation of lands unsuitable for mining minerals other than coal. Title VI: Appropriation Authorization; Definitions; and General Provisions - Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act, as follows: $10,000,000 for various contract authority immediately and for the next two fiscal years; for administrative and other purposes, $10,000,000 for fiscal 1975, $20,000,000 for fiscal 1976 and 1977, and $30,000,000 for fiscal years thereafter; $40,000,000 initially to the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund; and for research and demonstration projects, $5,000,000 for fiscal 1975 and for each fiscal year thereafter. Authorizes grants to States for developing, administering, and enforcing State programs under this Act. Gives the President power to suspend for 90 days any requirement of this Act concerning surface mining reclamation operations if a national emergency exists. Requires written permission of landowners, where different from underlying mineral owners, to mine or reclaim land. Title VII: State Mining and Mineral Resources Research Institute - Authorizes appropriation to the Secretary of the Interior sums adequate to provide for each participating State $200,000 for fiscal year 1975, $300,000 for fiscal year 1976, and $400,000 for each fiscal year thereafter for five years, to assist the States in carrying on the work of a competent and qualified mining and mineral resources research institute, center, or equivalent agency at the school of mines of one public college or university of the State. Requires such monies to be matched dollar for dollar by the States. Authorizes appropriation each year of $5,000,000 for the next seven fiscal years for specific projects in such institutes. Authorizes appropriation of $10,000,000 for fiscal 1975 and a sum increased by $2,000,000 each fiscal year thereafter for grants and contracts for other research into aspects of mining and mineral resources problems. Calls for the Secretary to appoint an advisory Committee on Mining and Mineral Research to advise him on all matters concerning mining and mineral resources research.
United States · United States Congress · 15 November 1973
Authorizes the establishment of the Big Thicket National Preserve in the State of Texas. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act, but not to exceed $63,812,000 for the acquisition of lands and interests in lands and not to exceed $7,000,000 for development.
United States · United States Congress · 15 November 1973
Directs the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to develop ground propulsion systems which are energy conserving, have clean emission characteristics, and are capable of being produced in large numbers at a reasonable mass production per unit cost. Requires that such ground propulsion systems must meet or better all air quality standards set by or under the National Emission Standards Act, the Clean Air Act, and the Air Quality Act of 1967, while substantially reducing per mile energy comsumption. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act not to exceed $30,000,000 in the aggregate for the fiscal years 1974 through 1977.
United States · United States Congress · 15 November 1973
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the Geneva Protocal of 1925 should be immediately ratified and that a comprehensive review of this Nation's national security and international policies regarding chemical warfare should be undertaken.
United States · United States Congress · 12 November 1973
American Folklife Preservation Act - Creates an American Folklife Center in the Library of Congress. Provides that the center shall be subject to the supervision and direction of a board of trustees. Provides that such board shall be composed of four members appointed by the President, eight members appointed by the Librarian of Congress, the Librarian of Congress ex officio and the director of the center ex officio. Authorizes the centers to establish and implement a program of contracts, grants, revitalize and scholarships to preserve, protect, revitalize and disseminate American folklife traditions and arts. Provides that no payment shall be made pursuant to this Act to carry out any research or training over a period in excess of two years. States that such research or training may be extended to a period not to exceed five years with the concurrance of at least two-thirds of the members of the board. Provides that no former employee of the Federal government shall be eligible to receive any grant or other assistance under this Act in the two year period following the termination of such employment. Requires the center to submit to the Library of Congress, for inclusion in its annual report to the Congress, an annual report of its operations under this Act. Authorizes such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 November 1973
National Fuels and Energy Conservation Act - Title I: Declares that it is in the national interest for, and shall be the continuing policy of, the Federal Government to foster and promote comprehensive national fuels and energy conservation programs and practices in order to slow the rate of growth of energy consumption, assure adequate supplies of energy and fuels for necessary uses, reduce energy waste, preserve natural resources, and protect the environment. Title II: Establishes in the Department of the Interior an Office of Energy Conservation to be headed by a Director appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) review and appraise the various programs, policies, and activities of the Federal Government in the light of the policy set forth in title I of this Act, for the purpose of determining the extent to which such programs and activities are contributing to the achievement of such policy, and to make recommendations to the President with respect thereto; (2) in cooperation with the Council on Environmental Quality, develop and recommend to the President national policies to foster and promote a national policy of energy conservation as set forth in title I of this Act; (3) make and furnish such studies and recommendations with respect to matters of policy and legislation as the President may request; (4) gather and present authoritative data concerning current and prospective energy use, analyze such information for the purpose of determining whether such conditions and trends are interfering, or are likely to interfere with the achievement of the purposes and policy of this Act, and compile and submit to the President studies relating to such conditions and trends; (5) conduct investigations, studies, surveys, research, and analyses concerning amounts and patterns of energy consumption, and current and potential means for energy conservation; (6) cooperate with private industry in developing energy conservation programs in industry; (7) provide assistance to State governments in developing State energy conservation programs; (8) conduct educational programs to foster public awareness of the need for and opportunities for energy conservation; and (9) prepare an annual report to the President and the Congress on his activities and the activities of other Federal agencies in implementing the purposes and objectives of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 November 1973
Commodities Exchange Commission Act - Establishes a Commodity Exchange Commission, composed of five commissioners appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, as an independent agency in the executive branch of the Government. Transfers specified functions from the Secretary of Agriculture to the Commission and delegates enumerated housekeeping functions to the Chairman. Authorizes the employment of persons without regard to Civil Service laws. Provides, with regard to rules governing registration of Commission merchants and brokers, that if after requesting a contract market to make specified changes in its rules and practices, the contract market has not made the changes, the Commission may order the contract market to alter the rules of such contract market as necessary to effect changes in specified areas. Requires that contract markets serve an economic purpose. Prohibits orders by futures commission merchants for their own accounts. States that no member of a contract market shall execute any order for future delivery and on the same intentionally enter into any transaction for future delivery in such commodity for any account in which such member has trading discretion, with specified exceptions. Provides that if any contract market, director, officer or agent is not enforcing or is violating any of the provisions of this Act, the Commission may enter an order directing that such contract market, director, officer, agent, or employee cease and desist from such violation and assess a civil penalty of not more than $100,000 for each such violation. Increases the amount of specific penalties for violations of this Act. Empowers the Commission with injunctive authority to restrain potential violations of this Act. Penalizes, with treble damages, the use of confidential information in violation of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 1 November 1973
Energy- Daylight Conservation Act - States the purpose of this Act as being to avert or minimize the effects of the energy crisis by conserving energy by adopting year-round daylight savings time to be observed in all States. Repeals the provisions of the Uniform Time Act advancing the standard time during the last Sunday in April to the last Sunday in October. (Repeals 15 U.S.C. 260a)
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1973
Solar Heating and Cooling Demonstration Act - Declares it to be the policy of the United States and the purpose of this Act to provide for the demonstration within a three-year period of the practical use of solar heating technology. Defines the terms used in this Act. Directs the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to initiate, support and carry out basic and applied research and development in solar heating and cooling technologies. Provides for the installation of solar heating systems in residential dwellings under the monitoring of the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the National Bureau of Standards and in consultation with the Secretaries of Housing and Urban Development and Defense. Provides that such residential dwellings shall be located in a sufficient number of different geographic areas (not less than three) in the United States to assure a realistic and effective demonstration of solar heating and cooling systems involved. Directs the Director of the National Science Foundation to initiate, support and fund basic and applied research activities related to solar energy in support of the objectives of this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of up to $50,000,000 to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1973
Special Prosecution Conservancy Act - Vests the Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia with supervisory jurisdiction to issue and enforce all orders necessary and appropriate to insure the integrity and inviolability of all files, notes, correspondence, memoranda, documents, physical evidence, and other records and work product compiled, obtained, or otherwise produced and maintained by the office of Special Prosecutor from the date of assumption of that office on May 24, 1973, until the appointment of a successor Special Prosecutor pursuant to this Act. Vests the Chief Judge of the United States District Court with authority to appoint a Special Prosecutor for the purposes and with the powers set forth in this Act, and to replace such officer only for extraordinary improprieties in the exercise of his responsibilities. Sets forth the authority and responsibilities of the Special Prosecutor. States that the prosecutor shall have exclusive authority to conduct all grand jury presentments and all other criminal proceedings arising from the following acts or transactions: (1) offenses arising out of the unauthorized entry into Democratic National Committee Headquarters at the Watergate; (2) offenses arising out of the 1972 Presidential election; (3) allegations of criminal offenses involving the President, members of the White House Staff, or other Presidential appointees; and (4) such other matters as bear a relation to the foregoing and which the Special Prosecutor consents to accept. Sets forth powers of the Special Prosecutor, including: (1) the power to determine whether and how far to contest the assertion of executive privilege or any other testimonial or evidentiary privilege, and (2) the power to decide whether or not to prosecute any person and how to conduct and argue any appeals or petitions arising out of his prosecutorial activities. Authorizes the United States District Court for the District of Columbia to extend the term of the Grand Jury of that Court which was impaneled on June 5, 1972, for additional periods of six months, until the court determines that the business of that Grand Jury has been completed. Authorizes to be appropriated to the office of the Special Prosecutor such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1973
Directs the Committee on the Judiciary to inquire into and investigate whether grounds exist for the impeachment of Richard M. Nixon, and to report its findings to the House with such resolutions or articles of impeachment deemed proper.
United States · United States Congress · 18 October 1973
Declares it to be the sense of the House that the President, acting in accordance with the announced policy of the United States Government to maintain Israel's deterrent strength, and under existing authority, should continue to transfer to Israel the Phantom aircraft and other equipment in the quantities needed by Israel to repel the attack and to offset the military equipment and supplies furnished to the Arab States by the Soviet Union.
United States · United States Congress · 17 October 1973
National Educational Opportunities Act - Title I: Local Rights and Responsibilities - Allows any public school student to transfer from a school in which his race is in a majority to one in which he is in a minority. Requires the local educational agency to provide transportation for such transfer. Requires local educational agencies to insure that where minority children are concentrated in schools that they are not denied equal educational opportunities. States that unequal educational opportunity include: overcrowding, fewer and less qualified teachers, and less adequate services and facilities. Prohibits the separation of children on the basis of race. Allows equitable relief for violations of this title. Title II: State Responsibilities - Requires each State to submit to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare a plan to carry out this Act. Directs that the Virginia and Maryland plans shall take account of the neighboring areas of the District of Columbia. Requires each such plan to provide for establishment of a State advisory council to advise on the development of and policy matters concerning such plan. Requires such plans to provide for similarly functioning local advisory committees. Sets a January 30, 1975, deadline for submission of such plans to the Secretary. States that each plan must provide for implementing the purpose of this Act by 1985, by such particular means as: (1) drawing children from core city schools into suburban schools; (2) providing remedial and other services to meet the needs of underachieving children; and (3) decentralization and diversification of public schools. Requires such plans to specify how States can financially assist local areas undergoing desegregation pursuant to court order, to specify how federally funded educational programs fit into such plan, and to specify how to involve children in nonprofit private schools in programs funded under this Act. Authorizes appropriations for carrying out this title of $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1975 and $500,000,000 for fiscal year 1976 and each fiscal year thereafter. States that 80 percent of such funds must be dispersed among the States. Prohibits the use of such funds to supplant State or local expenditures. Authorizes the Secretary to discontinue all Federal grants to States whose plans are are in noncompliance with this Act. Title III: General Provision - Establishes a National Advisory Council on Educational Opportunities appointed by the President to advise the Secretary on the operation of States plans.
United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1973
Clean Elections Act - Title I: Federal Elections Commission - Creates a six-member independent Federal Elections Commission: 2 members appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, 2 members appointed by the President pro tempore of the Senate, and 2 members appointed by the President. Specifies that the Commission shall have full legal powers. Authorizes the Commission to use the personnel and facilities of the General Accounting Office. Requires the Commission to submit its budget directly to Congress along with any recommendations it may have for legislation. Transfers specified functions of the Secretary of the Senate, the GAO and the Clerk of the House to the Commission. Requires each candidate for Federal office to have a central campaign committee through which all reports must pass. Requires the central committee to file its report with the Commission. Specifies that reports contain all contributions in excess of $100 and that cash contributions of $2,500 or more be reported within 24 hours. Requires a financial report to be filed 10 days before an election. Title II: Federal Matching Payment Entitlement Fund - Establishes on the books of the Treasury of the United States the Federal Matching Payment Entitlement Fund to remain available for expenditure without fiscal year limitation. Entitles candidates for Federal office or an official national party committee or an official congressional campaign committee to payments from the fund, during any calendar year, in an amount equal to the cmount of each contribution received by such candidate or committee not in excess of $50. Requires that the candidate or committee submit matching payment entitlement vouchers including the full name of the contributor together with the date, the exact amount of the contribution, and the complete address of the contributor. States that the Secretary of the Treasury shall make a payment from the fund to the candidate or the treasurer of the committee in the amount certified by the Commission. Sets forth the limitations on certification by the Commission. Title III: Limitations on Political Contributions - Declares a limitation on contributions, made by an individual and expenditures of not more than $2,500 in the case of a candidacy for President or Vice President or not more than $1,000 in a congressional campaign. Title IV: Tax Incentives for Contributions to Candidates for Public Office - Allows a maximum credit for a taxable year for contributions to candidates for public office of $50 ($100 for a joint return). Title V: Voter's Time - Provides for a schedule of televised political broadcasts by candidates for Federal office. Requires the television networks to make prime time available to the candidates at roles not exceeding the prevailing unit charge of the station for the same amount of program time in the same time period. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to pay fully all certified bills for Voter's Time not more than 10 days following receipt from the Registry of Election Finance.
United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1973
Provides for the revision of the boundary of Saguaro National Monument in the State of Arizona. Authorizes the appropriations as necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 October 1973
Menominee Restoration Act - Provides for the repeal of the Act of June 17, 1954 which terminated Federal supervision of the Menominee Tribe. States that as soon as practicable the Secretary of the Interior shall establish a membership role of the tribe which shall include all members listed on the final 1954 role who are still living on the date of enactment of this Act and all descendants of persons listed on the 1954 role if such descendants have at least one-quarter Menominee blood. Provides that all persons on the membership role shall be eligible to receive all Federal services furnished American Indians because of their status as Indians. States that subject to the approval of the Secretary the tribe shall organize a governing body for the tribe's common welfare and shall adopt an appropriate constitution and bylaws. States that subject to the approval of the shareholders as required by the laws of the State of Wisconsin, the board of Directors of Menominee Enterprises Incorporated shall transfer to the Secretary all assets held by such corporation. Provides that such assets shall be held in trust by the Secretary, on behalf of the United States for the tribe. Provides that this Act shall reinstitute all, and shall not abrogate any, water, hunting, fishing, and trapping rights or privileges, and any other rights and privileges of the tribe enjoyed under Federal treaty or otherwise. Authorizes the Secretary to make such rules and regulations as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 2 October 1973
Provides that no public funds be used for the purpose of transporting chemical nerve agents to or from any military installation in the United States for storage or stockpiling purposes unless it is the sense of the Congress to do so.
United States · United States Congress · 2 October 1973
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that both the President and Congress should resolve the position of the United States on the status of herbicides and tear gas so that the Senate may move forward toward immediate ratification of the Geneva protocol of 1925. States that the Department of Defense should detoxify that amount of nerve gas stored at Rocky Mountain Arsenal in Denver which was to have been destroyed by now.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1973
Title I: Nonimmigrants - Provides, under the Immigration and Nationality Act, for the issuance of nonimmigrant visas to aliens entering the United States to perform services or labor of a temporary or seasonal nature under specific contracts of employment. Sets forth specified standards to be followed in entering into and renewing such contracts of employment. Provides that the status of an alien admitted to the United States under this Act shall terminate when the employment with the petitioning employer of such alien ends. Requires such employer to notify the Attorney General in writing, within three days after the alien ceases such employment, that the employment of such alien has ended. Directs said employer to provide notification of termination to the alien at his last known address not less than two weeks prior to the termination date. States that any employer who fails to furnish written notice to the Attorney General, as required by this Act, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall, upon conviction thereof, be fined not to exceed $200 or be imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both. Title II: Immigrants - Requires an immigrant alien to maintain a permanent residence as a condition for entering and remaining as an immigrant of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1973
Provides that when any pay adjustment is prepared and transmitted to Congress by the President and such pay adjustment proposes two or more rates in any of the stautory pay systems which exceed the then current rates of basic pay of level V of the Executive Schedule, and Civil Service Commission shall, immediately before such pay adjustment becomes effective, prescribe the then current rate of basic pay for level V as the rate which, in fact, will be paid to positions of the highest pay standing in the highest grade, class, or pay level in such statutory pay system and shall prescribe lesser rates in descending order of amounts for any positions of lesser pay standing in such highest grade, class, or salary level. Provides that for all positions in each lower grade, class, or pay level for which rates have been proposed in excess of the then current level V rate, the Commission shall prescribe, in the same manner pay rates in descending order of amounts based on relative pay standing within that grade, class, or pay level. Directs the Commission to establish rates of pay which appropriately preserve pay relationships within and between positions, grades, classes, and pay levels in decending order of amounts based on the then current basic pay rate for level V.
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1973
States that by reason of their traditional use as a thoroughfare and haven for fishermen and sea venturers, the necessity for them to be free and open in connection with shipping, navigation, salvage, and rescue operations, as well as recreation, Congress declares and affirms that the beaches of the United States are impressed with a national interest and that the public shall have free and unrestricted right to use them as a common to the full extent that such public right may be extended consistent with such property rights of littoral landowners as may be protected absolutely by the Constitution. Provides that no person shall create, erect, maintain, or construct any obstruction, barrier, or restraint of any nature which interferes with the free and unrestricted right of the public, individually and collectively, to enter, leave, cross, or use as a common the public beaches. Establishes Federal jurisdiction over legal actions connected with the provisions of this Act. States that it is desirable that the States and the Federal Government act in a joint partnership to protect the rights and interests of the people in the use of the beaches. Authorizes the Secretary of whatever department the Coast Guard is operating under to place at the disposal of the States such research facilities and information as may assist them in carrying out the provisions of this Act, to make grants, and to provide financial assistance for the development and maintenance of transportation facilities necessary in connection with the use of public beaches.
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1973
Clean Elections Act - Title I: Federal Elections Commission - Creates a six-member independent Federal Elections Commission: 2 members appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, 2 members appointed by the President pro tempore of the Senate, and 2 members appointed by the President. Specifies that the Commission shall have full legal powers. Authorizes the Commission to use the personnel and facilities of the General Accounting Office. Requires the Commission to submit its budget directly to Congress along with any recommendations it may have for legislation. Transfers specified functions of the Secretary of the Senate, the GAO and the Clerk of the House to the Commission. Requires each candidate for Federal office to have a central campaign committee through which all reports must pass. Requires the central committee to file its report with the Commission. Specifies that reports contain all contributions in excess of $100 and that cash contributions of $2,500 or more be reported within 24 hours. Requires a financial report to be filed 10 days before an election. Title II: Federal Matching Payment Entitlement Fund - Establishes on the books of the Treasury of the United States the Federal Matching Payment Entitlement Fund to remain available for expenditure without fiscal year limitation. Entitles candidates for Federal office or an official national party committee or an official congressional campaign committee to payments from the fund, during any calendar year, in an amount equal to the cmount of each contribution received by such candidate or committee not in excess of $50. Requires that the candidate or committee submit matching payment entitlement vouchers including the full name of the contributor together with the date, the exact amount of the contribution, and the complete address of the contributor. States that the Secretary of the Treasury shall make a payment from the fund to the candidate or the treasurer of the committee in the amount certified by the Commission. Sets forth the limitations on certification by the Commission. Title III: Limitations on Political Contributions - Declares a limitation on contributions, made by an individual and expenditures of not more than $2,500 in the case of a candidacy for President or Vice President or not more than $1,000 in a congressional campaign. Title IV: Tax Incentives for Contributions to Candidates for Public Office - Allows a maximum credit for a taxable year for contributions to candidates for public office of $50 ($100 for a joint return). Title V: Voter's Time - Provides for a schedule of televised political broadcasts by candidates for Federal office. Requires the television networks to make prime time available to the candidates at roles not exceeding the prevailing unit charge of the station for the same amount of program time in the same time period. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to pay fully all certified bills for Voter's Time not more than 10 days following receipt from the Registry of Election Finance.
United States · United States Congress · 13 September 1973
Land Use Planning Act - Title I: Assistance to States - Sets forth the findings of Congress and policies of the Federal Government. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to make annual grants to any State which has: (1) established an eligible land use planning agency, and (2) an intergovernmental advisory council to assist in the development and administration of a comprehensive land use planning process. Defines the elements which constitute a comprehensive land use planning process, including provisions for: (1) public involvment in the process; (2) coordination of land use activities of all State agencies; (3) consideration of esthetic, ecological, recreational and geological needs; and (4) environmental policies. Describes the factors to be included in any methods of implementation employed by a State in carrying out its land use planning process. Provides for interstate cooperation in coordinating land use planning. States that prior to making a grant to any State, the Secretary shall consult with specified officials and shall ascertain that land use planning criteria have been met. Prescribes an appeal procedure for States found ineligible to receive grants. Authorizes the Secretary to terminate any financial assistance whenever the land use planning process is determined not to meet the requirements of this Act. Makes technical and conforming amendments to specified Acts. Title II: Assistance to Indians - Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to make land use planning grants to any indian tribe to assist in developing a land use planning process for Indian reservation and other tribal lands. Sets forth the requirements of any such land use planning process and the eligibility factors to be met by a tribe. Title III: Public lands - Requires that each public land management agency head prepare and maintain an inventory of all public lands and other resources under his jurisdiction. States that in the development of public land use plans, specified considerations and priorities shall be taken into account. Title IV: Administration - Establishes in the Department of the Interior the Office of Land Use Planning Administration. Enumerates the duties of such Administration, including: (1) to administer the grant in aid programs established under this Act; (2) cooperate in the development of standard methods of land use information collection; and (3) provide administrative support for the Interagency Land Use Policy and Planning Board. Establishes the Interagency Land Use Policy and Planning Board and enumerates the duties of such Board. Provides for the appointing of the members of the Board. Directs the Council on Environmental quality to issue guidelines to Federal agencies and States to assist them in carrying out the requirements of this Act. Requires the Secretary, through the Office, to investigate the need for and form of stating national land use policies, taking into account specified factors. Calls for the Secretary to issue a biennial report on land resources, uses, and problems. States that, for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this Act, the Secretary may hold hearings, take testimony and receive evidence. Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary of the Interior of: (1) $100,000,000 for each of the eight fiscal years for grants to States under title I; (2) $6,000,000 for each of the eight fiscal years for grants to Indian tribes; and (3) $10,000,000 for each of the three fiscal years for administration of this Act. Provides for the allotment of such funds. Sets forth the definitions of terms used in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 September 1973
Establishes the Big Cypress National Preserve in the State of Florida. Authorizes to be appropriated an amount not to exceed $116,000,000 for the acquisition of lands and interests in lands, and an amount not to exceed $900,000 for development.
United States · United States Congress · 5 September 1973
Clean Elections Act - Title I: Federal Elections Commission - Creates a six-member independent Federal Elections Commission: 2 members appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, 2 members appointed by the President pro tempore of the Senate, and 2 members appointed by the President. Specifies that the Commission shall have full legal powers. Authorizes the Commission to use the personnel and facilities of the General Accounting Office. Requires the Commission to submit its budget directly to Congress along with any recommendations it may have for legislation. Transfers specified functions of the Secretary of the Senate, the GAO and the Clerk of the House to the Commission. Requires each candidate for Federal office to have a central campaign committee through which all reports must pass. Requires the central committee to file its report with the Commission. Specifies that reports contain all contributions in excess of $100 and that cash contributions of $2,500 or more be reported within 24 hours. Requires a financial report to be filed 10 days before an election. Title II: Federal Matching Payment Entitlement Fund - Establishes on the books of the Treasury of the United States the Federal Matching Payment Entitlement Fund to remain available for expenditure without fiscal year limitation. Entitles candidates for Federal office or an official national party committee or an official congressional campaign committee to payments from the fund, during any calendar year, in an amount equal to the cmount of each contribution received by such candidate or committee not in excess of $50. Requires that the candidate or committee submit matching payment entitlement vouchers including the full name of the contributor together with the date, the exact amount of the contribution, and the complete address of the contributor. States that the Secretary of the Treasury shall make a payment from the fund to the candidate or the treasurer of the committee in the amount certified by the Commission. Sets forth the limitations on certification by the Commission. Title III: Limitations on Political Contributions - Declares a limitation on contributions, made by an individual and expenditures of not more than $2,500 in the case of a candidacy for President or Vice President or not more than $1,000 in a congressional campaign. Title IV: Tax Incentives for Contributions to Candidates for Public Office - Allows a maximum credit for a taxable year for contributions to candidates for public office of $50 ($100 for a joint return). Title V: Voter's Time - Provides for a schedule of televised political broadcasts by candidates for Federal office. Requires the television networks to make prime time available to the candidates at roles not exceeding the prevailing unit charge of the station for the same amount of program time in the same time period. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to pay fully all certified bills for Voter's Time not more than 10 days following receipt from the Registry of Election Finance.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1973
Constitutional Amendment - States that there shall be such power vested in the Congress of the United States that upon enactment by two-thirds of the Senate and the House of Representatives present of a joint resolution that the President has failed or refused faithfully to execute the laws enacted by Congress; or that he has willfully exceeded the powers vested in him by this Constitution and the laws of the United States; or that he has caused or willfully permitted the rights of citizens of the United States to be trespassed upon in violation of this Constitution, the laws of the United States, or treaties made, or which shall be made, under their authority; the Congress shall by legislation enact a law which shall be excluded from the provisions enumerated in Article I, section 7 of this Constitution requiring presentation to and signature by the President of all laws by Congress; provide for a special election for President and Vice President of the United States, such special election to be held within ninety days from the date of the enactment of the joint resolution. Requires that such special election shall be by direct popular vote of the registered voters of the several States. Provides that the special election shall be held pursuant to law enacted by Congress and necessary campaign funds and allied expenses of the political parties participating in such special election shall be financed exclusively from the funds which the Congress shall appropriate. Permits the incumbent President and Vice President to be eligible for renomination as candidates of their respective political party for reelection; and, if reelected, shall be considered as continuing to fulfill the term of office for which orginally serving.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1973
Clean Elections Act - Title I: Federal Elections Commission - Creates a six-member independent Federal Elections Commission: 2 members appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, 2 members appointed by the President pro tempore of the Senate, and 2 members appointed by the President. Specifies that the Commission shall have full legal powers. Authorizes the Commission to use the personnel and facilities of the General Accounting Office. Requires the Commission to submit its budget directly to Congress along with any recommendations it may have for legislation. Transfers specified functions of the Secretary of the Senate, the GAO and the Clerk of the House to the Commission. Requires each candidate for Federal office to have a central campaign committee through which all reports must pass. Requires the central committee to file its report with the Commission. Specifies that reports contain all contributions in excess of $100 and that cash contributions of $2,500 or more be reported within 24 hours. Requires a financial report to be filed 10 days before an election. Title II: Federal Matching Payment Entitlement Fund - Establishes on the books of the Treasury of the United States the Federal Matching Payment Entitlement Fund to remain available for expenditure without fiscal year limitation. Entitles candidates for Federal office or an official national party committee or an official congressional campaign committee to payments from the fund, during any calendar year, in an amount equal to the cmount of each contribution received by such candidate or committee not in excess of $50. Requires that the candidate or committee submit matching payment entitlement vouchers including the full name of the contributor together with the date, the exact amount of the contribution, and the complete address of the contributor. States that the Secretary of the Treasury shall make a payment from the fund to the candidate or the treasurer of the committee in the amount certified by the Commission. Sets forth the limitations on certification by the Commission. Title III: Limitations on Political Contributions - Declares a limitation on contributions, made by an individual and expenditures of not more than $2,500 in the case of a candidacy for President or Vice President or not more than $1,000 in a congressional campaign. Title IV: Tax Incentives for Contributions to Candidates for Public Office - Allows a maximum credit for a taxable year for contributions to candidates for public office of $50 ($100 for a joint return). Title V: Voter's Time - Provides for a schedule of televised political broadcasts by candidates for Federal office. Requires the television networks to make prime time available to the candidates at roles not exceeding the prevailing unit charge of the station for the same amount of program time in the same time period. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to pay fully all certified bills for Voter's Time not more than 10 days following receipt from the Registry of Election Finance.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1973
Repeals specified provisions of law allowing prospecting and mining within components of the National Park System. Prohibits prospecting and mining activities within such areas. Provides compensation to parties possessing enumerated mineral and mining rights in national parks acquired prior to this Act and terminated by this Act. Authorizes appropriations of such sums as may be necessary to defray the costs of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1973
States that the Speaker may, in his discretion, when debate is concluded on any motion to suspend the rules and pass any bill or resolution and a recorded vote is requested thereon, or if objection is made to any vote thereon on the ground that a quorum is not present, defer putting the final question on that motion and entertain additional motions to suspend the rules and pass other bills or resolutions, similarly deferring, in his discretion in such circumstances, putting the question on any or all such additional motions upon conclusion of debate thereon until debate is concluded upon the last of such additional motions. Provides that, upon conclusion of debate on the last of such additional motions, the Speaker shall put the question on each motion, with respect to which the putting of the question was deferred, in the order in which that motion was debated.
United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1973
Constitutional Amendment - Vests in the Congress of the United States the power, upon enactment by two-thirds of the Senate and of the House of Representatives present of a joint resolution that the President has failed or refused faithfully to execute the laws enacted by the Congress; or that he has willfully exceeded the powers vested in him; or that he has caused or willfully permitted the rights of citizens to be trespassed upon to (1) enact a law which shall be excluded from the provisions enumerated in article I, section 7 of the Constitution requiring presentation to and signature by the President of all laws by Congress; and (2) provide for a special election for President and Vice President of the United States, to be held within ninety days from the date of enactment of the joint resolution. Provides that such special election shall be by direct popular vote of the registered voters of the States. States that the campaign funds of the political parties participating in such special election shall be financed exclusively from funds which the Congress shall appropriate. Excludes such legislation from the Constitutional requirement of presentation to and signature by the President of all laws by Congress. Makes this article inoperative whenever the date for such special election occurs within one hundred and eighty days prior to the normal date for the election of the President and Vice-President. Provides that the incumbent President and Vice-President shall be eligible to be renominated as candidates for reelection. States that if persons other than the incumbents are elected in the special election, such persons shall serve for the remainder of the unexpired terms of the incumbents. Provides that this article shall not impair impeachment procedures relating to the President and Vice-President.
United States · United States Congress · 16 July 1973
National Fuels and Energy Conservation Act - Establishes in the Department of the Interior the Office of Energy Conservation which shall have a Director appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Provides that the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Office, shall: (1) work with the Council on Environmental Quality in developing new energy conservation initiatives for the Federal Government; (2) cooperate with private conservation programs in industry; and (3) provide assistance to State governments in developing State energy conservation programs. Directs the Administrator of the General Services Administration to use equipment, construction methods and management policies which make the maximum efficient use of energy in design, construction and operation of Federal buildings. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to develop improved design, lighting, and insulation standards to promote efficient energy use in residential, commercial and industrial buildings. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish and publish standards of efficiency for electrical appliances and equipment. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to promulgate standards for labeling major electrical appliances and equipment so that shoppers may compare the efficiency of energy usage of such appliances and equipment. Prohibits manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers and retailers of electrical appliances and equipment from: (1) selling in interstate commerce any electrical appliance or equipment which is not labeled according to the FTC standard; and (2) from advertising any electrical appliance or equipment unless the advertisement contains a statement in accord with the labeling standard. Establishes a $5,000 civil penalty for each violation of such selling and advertising requirements. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to prepare proposed minimum standards for average degree of fuel use for motor vehicles, and such standards shall be designed to achieve a substantial increase in degree of fuel use by motor vehicles not in compliance with such standards within three years from the enactment of such standards by Congress, with all motor vehicles being required to meet such standards within five years. Requires manufacturers of motor vehicles to conduct tests and make such reports as the Secretary may require for the purpose of establishing such standards. Requires that all motor vehicles sold or manufactured in the United States shall bear a label stating in nontechnical language the degree of fuel use, and prohibits advertisement of such vehicles unless the advertisement states the degree of fuel use. Establishes a $1,000 civil penalty for offering an improperly labeled vehicle for sale and a $50,000 penalty for each advertisement not disclosing degree of fuel use. Directs the Federal Power Commission to promulgate regulations requiring electric and gas public utilities to submit to the Commission annual reports on energy conservation policies. Directs each agency of the Federal Government engaged in the sale of electrical energy to submit to the Congress a study of the impact of the rate structure of such agency on the consumption and conservation of energy. Requires the Federal Trade Commission to promulgate regulations for advertising and promotion of energy and fuels which: (1) shall be designed to prohibit advertising or promotional energy or fuels by any person or corporation when such person or corporation is unwilling or unable to meet customers' requirements for energy or fuel and; (2) which shall generally prohibit advertising and promotion which are calculated or likely to result in unnecessary energy consumption. Establishes a $50,000 civil penalty for each violation of such advertising and promotion regulations. Directs the Council on Environmental Quality to submit to the Congress: (1) a report evaluating the impact on fuel consumption of national and regional systems of freight transportation and; (2) a study of the relationships between motor vehicle sizes, the needs of motor vehicle users, and the public interest. Authorizes for each fiscal year such additional sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of the Act.
United States · United States Congress · 16 July 1973
Clean Elections Act - Title I: Federal Elections Commission - Creates a six-member independent Federal Elections Commission: 2 members appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, 2 members appointed by the President pro tempore of the Senate, and 2 members appointed by the President. Specifies that the Commission shall have full legal powers. Authorizes the Commission to use the personnel and facilities of the General Accounting Office. Requires the Commission to submit its budget directly to Congress along with any recommendations it may have for legislation. Transfers specified functions of the Secretary of the Senate, the GAO and the Clerk of the House to the Commission. Requires each candidate for Federal office to have a central campaign committee through which all reports must pass. Requires the central committee to file its report with the Commission. Specifies that reports contain all contributions in excess of $100 and that cash contributions of $2,500 or more be reported within 24 hours. Requires a financial report to be filed 10 days before an election. Title II: Federal Matching Payment Entitlement Fund - Establishes on the books of the Treasury of the United States the Federal Matching Payment Entitlement Fund to remain available for expenditure without fiscal year limitation. Entitles candidates for Federal office or an official national party committee or an official congressional campaign committee to payments from the fund, during any calendar year, in an amount equal to the cmount of each contribution received by such candidate or committee not in excess of $50. Requires that the candidate or committee submit matching payment entitlement vouchers including the full name of the contributor together with the date, the exact amount of the contribution, and the complete address of the contributor. States that the Secretary of the Treasury shall make a payment from the fund to the candidate or the treasurer of the committee in the amount certified by the Commission. Sets forth the limitations on certification by the Commission. Title III: Limitations on Political Contributions - Declares a limitation on contributions, made by an individual and expenditures of not more than $2,500 in the case of a candidacy for President or Vice President or not more than $1,000 in a congressional campaign. Title IV: Tax Incentives for Contributions to Candidates for Public Office - Allows a maximum credit for a taxable year for contributions to candidates for public office of $50 ($100 for a joint return). Title V: Voter's Time - Provides for a schedule of televised political broadcasts by candidates for Federal office. Requires the television networks to make prime time available to the candidates at roles not exceeding the prevailing unit charge of the station for the same amount of program time in the same time period. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to pay fully all certified bills for Voter's Time not more than 10 days following receipt from the Registry of Election Finance.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1973
Clean Elections Act - Title I: Federal Elections Commission - Creates a six-member independent Federal Elections Commission: 2 members appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, 2 members appointed by the President pro tempore of the Senate, and 2 members appointed by the President. Specifies that the Commission shall have full legal powers. Authorizes the Commission to use the personnel and facilities of the General Accounting Office. Requires the Commission to submit its budget directly to Congress along with any recommendations it may have for legislation. Transfers specified functions of the Secretary of the Senate, the GAO and the Clerk of the House to the Commission. Requires each candidate for Federal office to have a central campaign committee through which all reports must pass. Requires the central committee to file its report with the Commission. Specifies that reports contain all contributions in excess of $100 and that cash contributions of $2,500 or more be reported within 24 hours. Requires a financial report to be filed 10 days before an election. Title II: Federal Matching Payment Entitlement Fund - Establishes on the books of the Treasury of the United States the Federal Matching Payment Entitlement Fund to remain available for expenditure without fiscal year limitation. Entitles candidates for Federal office or an official national party committee or an official congressional campaign committee to payments from the fund, during any calendar year, in an amount equal to the cmount of each contribution received by such candidate or committee not in excess of $50. Requires that the candidate or committee submit matching payment entitlement vouchers including the full name of the contributor together with the date, the exact amount of the contribution, and the complete address of the contributor. States that the Secretary of the Treasury shall make a payment from the fund to the candidate or the treasurer of the committee in the amount certified by the Commission. Sets forth the limitations on certification by the Commission. Title III: Limitations on Political Contributions - Declares a limitation on contributions, made by an individual and expenditures of not more than $2,500 in the case of a candidacy for President or Vice President or not more than $1,000 in a congressional campaign. Title IV: Tax Incentives for Contributions to Candidates for Public Office - Allows a maximum credit for a taxable year for contributions to candidates for public office of $50 ($100 for a joint return). Title V: Voter's Time - Provides for a schedule of televised political broadcasts by candidates for Federal office. Requires the television networks to make prime time available to the candidates at roles not exceeding the prevailing unit charge of the station for the same amount of program time in the same time period. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to pay fully all certified bills for Voter's Time not more than 10 days following receipt from the Registry of Election Finance.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1973
Constitutional Amendment - Provides that no person who shall have reached the age of twenty-two years shall be disqualified to be a Representative on account of age. Provides no person who shall have reached the age of twenty-seven years shall be disqualified to be a Senator on account of age.
![Official portrait of Rep. Udall, Morris K. [D-AZ-2]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/u000001_200.jpg)