United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1974
Coal Research Laboratory and Energy Research Fellowship Act - Title I: University Coal Research Laboratories - Authorizes the Director of the National Science Foundation, after consultation with the National Academy of Engineering, to designate five institutions of higher education at which university coal research laboratories will be established and operated. States that, in making designations under this Act, the Director shall consider the following criteria: (1) the institution of higher education shall be located in a State with abundant coal reserves; (2) the institution of higher education shall have experience in coal research, expertise in several areas of coal research, and currently active, outstanding programs in coal research; and (3) the institution of higher education has the capacity to establish and operate the coal laboratories to be assisted under this title. Provides that not more than one coal laboratory established pursuant to this title shall be located in a single State. Specifies information to be included in applications by institutions of higher education desiring to be designated under this title. Authorizes the Director to make grants to any designated institution of higher education to pay the Federal share of the cost of establishing and maintaining a coal laboratory. States that no institution of higher education may receive more than $4,000,000 for the construction of its coal research laboratory, including initially installed fixed equipment, nor may it receive more than $1,500,000 for initially installed movable equipment, nor may it receive more than $500,000 for new program startup expenses. Provides that no institution of higher education may receive more than $1,500,000 per year from the Federal Government for operating expenses. Establishes an Advisory Council on Coal Research. Stipulates that the Advisory Council shall advise the Director with respect to the general administration of this title, and furnish such additional advice as he may request. Authorizes appropriations of not to exceed $30,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1975 (including the cost of construction, equipment, and startup expenses) and $7,500,000 beginning with the fiscal year 1976 and for each fiscal year thereafter through the fiscal year ending June 30, 1980, to carry out the provisions of this title. Title II: Energy Resource Graduate Fellowships - Authorizes the Director to award under the provisions of this title not to exceed one thousand five hundred fellowships for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1975, and each of the five succeeding fiscal years. States that fellowships shall be awarded under the provisions of this title for graduate study and research in those areas of applied science and engineering that are related to the production, conservation, and utilization of fuels and energy. Provides that fellowships shall be awarded to students in programs leading to master's degrees. States that such fellowships may be awarded for graduate study and research at any institution of higher education, library, archive, or any other research center approved by the Director after consultation with the Commissoner of Education. Provides that recipients of fellowships under this title shall be: (1) persons who have been accepted by an institution of higher education for graduate study leading to an advanced degree or for a professional degree; and (2) persons who plan a career in the field of energy resources, production, or utilization. States that each person awarded a fellowship under this title shall receive a stipend of $4,000 for each academic year of study, and an additional amount of $500 for each such calendar year of study shall be paid to such person on account of each of his dependents. Authorizes appropriations of $11,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1975, and for each of the five succeeding fiscal years.
United States · United States Congress · 19 November 1974
Provides that tax returns are confidential, and, therefore, are not open to inspection, and that information contained in them shall not be disclosed. Permits, under regulations established by the Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service, the inspection of tax returns by the taxpayer, the Internal Revenue Service, the Justice Department, State tax authorities, the President, and the Joint Committee on Internal Revenue Taxation. Requires a report to the Joint Committee of returns inspected and by whom inspected. Establishes criminal penalties for unauthorized disclosure or receipt of tax return information.
United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1974
Home Purchase Assistance Act - Requires that whenever the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development determines that a substantial number of families are unable to obtain mortgage credit at reasonable rates due to high interest rates or reduced availability of mortgage credit and that the inability to obtain such credit is causing or threatening to cause a significant reduction in the volume of home construction or acquisition and thereby adversely to affect the economy and to delay the orderly achievement of the national housing goals contained in title XVI of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968, the Secretary shall direct the Government National Mortgage Association to begin making commitments to purchase and to purchase mortgages in accordance with the provisions of this Act. Establishes within the Association a Housing Trust Fund which shall be used to carry out such purposes. Provides that mortgages may be purchased under this Act only if: (1) such mortgage was executed to finance the acquisition of the principal residence of the mortgagor; and (2) such mortgage involves the acquisition or construction of a residential dwelling at a cost which does not exceed $30,000 (or such greater amount, but not to exceed $45,000 as may be necessary to meet the need for mortgage credit in high cost areas). States that the Association shall not permit the aggregate outstanding amount of mortgages held by the fund under this section to increase by more than $10,000,000,000 in any single fiscal year. Requires that 50 percent of the aggregate principal amount of home mortgages purchased under this Act in any fiscal year shall involve residences upon which construction has been completed within twelve months preceding the date of purchase.
United States · United States Congress · 3 October 1974
Provides that tax returns are confidential, and, therefore, are not open to inspection, and that information contained in them shall not be disclosed. Permits, under regulations established by the Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service, the inspection of tax returns by the taxpayer, the Internal Revenue Service, the Justice Department, State tax authorities, the President, and the Joint Committee on Internal Revenue Taxation. Requires a report to the Joint Committee of returns inspected and by whom inspected. Establishes criminal penalties for unauthorized disclosure or receipt of tax return information.
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 1974
Overseas Citizens Voting Rights Act - Expresses the Congressional declarations that it is necessary to: (1) abolish for citizens residing overseas the domicile and residence requirements as preconditions to voting in Federal elections, and (2) establish standards relating to absentee registration and balloting by such citizens in Federal elections. Provides that no citizen residing overseas shall be denied the right to register for, and to vote by an absentee ballot in, any Federal election solely because he is not domiciled and does not have a place of abode in a State or district, if he meets specified requirements. Requires each State to provide for the registration of and casting of absentee ballots by all citizens residing overseas and entitled to vote in a Federal election in such State. Provides that each State shall mail the following by airmail to such citizen: (1) an absentee ballot; (2) instructions concerning voting procedures; and (3) an airmail envelope for the mailing of such ballot. Sets forth the form of the overseas citizen Federal election postcard. States that whoever deprives any person of any right secured by this Act shall be fined not more than $5,000, or imprisoned not more than five years, or both. Sets forth additional penalties for falsifying registration materials. Provides that the exercise of any right to register or vote by any citizen residing overseas shall not affect the determination of his place of residence or domicile (as distinguished from his place of voting) for purposes of any tax imposed under Federal, State or local law. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Administrator of General Services such sums as are necessary to carry out his duties under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 August 1974
Expresses the findings of Congress, including that Federal information reporting requirements have placed an unprecedented paperwork burden upon private citizens, recipients of Federal assistance, businesses, governmental contractors, and State and local governments. Establishes a Commission on Federal Paperwork to study procedures and practices of the Federal Government relating to information gathering, dissemination, and the management and control of information activities. Enumerates the areas to be considered by the Commission in its studies. Directs the Commission to make a final report to the Congress and the President within two years of the date of its first meeting. Sets forth the membership composition of the Commission and their compensation. Details the administrative powers of the Commission. Calls for cooperation between Federal agencies and the Commission. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Commission such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 August 1974
Exempts from the child labor provisions of the Fair labor Standards Act individuals under age sixteen employed at public sporting or recreational events for not more than forty hours per week while school is not in session, and not more than thirteen hours per week while school is in session.
United States · United States Congress · 6 August 1974
Directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives, the Sergeant at Arms of the House of Representatives, the Architect of the Capitol, and the Librarian of Congress (with respect to the employees of the United States Botanic Garden) to enter into agreements with Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia for the withholding of State or District of Columbia income tax in the case of each Member and employee who is subject to such income tax and who voluntarily agrees to such withholding. States that such agreement shall be subject to review by the Committee on House Administration of the House of Representatives.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1974
Federal Election Campaign Act Amendments - Title I: Criminal Code Amendments - Disallows personal political contributions in Federal elections in excess of $1000 to any candidate. Disables polical committee contributions except from the principal campaign committee, contributions in excess of $5,000. Limits aggregate individual contributions in a year to $25,000. Limits nomination expenditures for a Presidential candidate to $10,000,000 and election expenditures to $20,000,000. Limits Senatorial campaign expenditures to the greater of 5 cents times the State population or $75,000; and limits House campaigns to $75,000. Increases such limitations each year by the percentage rise in the Consumer Price Index. Limits a candidate's expenditures from personal fund to $25,000 Increases the fines for violations of such limitations to $25,000 for indivduals; and to $25,000 for banks, corporations and labor organizations, or to $50,000 if willfully done. Prohibits contributions in another's name. Prohibits contributions in cash of more than $100. Prohibits acceptance by Federal officials of honorariums over $1,000 and $10,000 in any year. Redefines political committee. Adds to the exceptions in the definition of contributions, and in that of expenditures. States that Federal election law shall not be interpreted as disallowing corporations and labor organizations from establishing separate funds for influencing the election of a candidate. Title II: Disclosure of Federal Campaign Funds - Requires candidates to designate a principal campaign committee to make expenditures and file reports required by law. Sets dates for filing such reports in quarters where contributions or expenditures exceed $1,000. Requires that the supervisory officer (Clerk of the House or Secretary of the Senate) notify the Rules Committee of the Senate or House Administration Committee before prescribing rules or regulations. Creates the Board of Supervisory Officers among specified Congressional and executive officials and other citizens. Instructs the Board to formulate policy and review actions of supervisory officers relating to election laws, to conduct investigations and hearings, report violations, and report annually on its activities. Requires supervisory officers to report election law violations to the Board, which shall attempt to settle by conciliation and persuasion before reporting to law enforcement officials. Authorizes judicial review of the election law provisions. Authorizes necessary appropriations to the Board and supervisory officers. Title III: General Provisions - Requires indictment within three years of violation of election law if a party is to be prosecuted. Approves disqualification from candidacy of Federal officials failing to file required election reports. Title IV: Amendments to Other Laws; Effective Dates - Permits State and local officials to be nonpartisan candidates. Repeals communications media expenditure limitations provisions of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971. Entitles major party Presidential candidates to a total of $20,000,000 from the Election Campaign Fund. Entitles major party Presidential conventions to $2,000,000 from such Fund. Specifies amounts for minor party conventions. Limits expenditures by parties for conventions. Prescribes allowable expenses for convention purposes. Exempts political committees from filing tax forms. Adds "Chapter 97-Presidential Primary Matching Payment Account," entitled the "Presidential Primary Matching Payment Account Act" to the Internal Revenue Code. Refines terms used in such Act. Sets forth eligibility requirements for payments from the Presidential Primary Matching Payment Account, including agreement by candidates to furnish records to the Comptroller General. Entitles primary election candidates to allotments from such account to match their other contributions. Sets expenditure limits of $10,000,000, for Presidential primary candidates. Limits payments to any candidate to 25 percent of the amount in such Account, and to candidates from any one pary to 45 percent of such amount. Requires an audit by the Comptroller General of candidate expenditures and repayment by candidates of excess amounts and misused amounts. Requires Congressional approval of the Comproller General's procedures under this Act. Sets forth penalties for violations of such primary election law provisions.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1974
Harry S. Truman Memorial Scholarship Act - Expresses the findings of Congress and declares that it is especially appropriate to honor former President Harry S. Truman through the creation of a perpetual educational scholarship program to develop increased opportunities for young Americans to prepare and pursue careers in public service. Establishes as an independent establishment of the executive branch of the United States Government, the Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation, to be subject to the supervision and direction of the Board of Trustees. Authorizes the Foundation to award fifty-one scholarships in any fiscal year beginning after June 30, 1973, for undergraduate study for persons who plan to pursue a career in public service. States that each recipient shall be knows as a Truman scholar. Sets forth provisions governing: (1) the scholarship requirements; (2) the procedures for selection of Truman scholars; (3) stipends and institutional allowances; and (4) the scholarship conditions. Establishes in the Treasury of the United States a trust fund to be known as the Harry S. Truman Memorial Scholarship Trust Fund. Prescribes the procedures for expenditures from the fund. Directs that there shall be an Executive Secretary of the Foundation, appointed by the Board, who shall be the chief executive officer and shall carry out the functions of the Foundation subject to the supervision and direction of the Board. Authorizes to be appropriated $30,000,000 to the fund. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for administrative expenses incident to carrying out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1974
Constitutional Amendment - Stipulates that on or before the fifteenth day after the beginning of each regular session of the Congress, the President shall transmit to the Congress a budget which shall set forth separately: (1) his estimate of the receipts of the Government, other than receipts of trust funds, during the ensuing fiscal year under the laws then existing, and his recommendations with respect to expenditures to be made by the Government, other than expenditures from trust funds, during such ensuing fiscal year, which shall not exceed his estimate of such receipts; and (2) his estimate of the receipts of Government trust funds during such ensuring fiscal year under the laws then existing, and his estimate and recommendations with respect to expenditures from such trust funds during such ensuing fiscal year. Provides that on or before the last day of the second month following the close of each fiscal year, the President shall report to the Congress the actual amount of receipts and expenditures of the Government during such fiscal year, other than receipts and expenditures of trust funds. States that if, for the period of two consecutive fiscal years, the aggregate expenditures by the Government, other than expenditures from trust funds, exceed the aggregate receipts of the Government, other than the receipts of trust funds, neither the House of Representatives nor the Senate shall have power to pass any bill or other measure appropriating any moneys out of the general fund of the Treasury until such time as provisions of law have come into effect which will provide additional revenue in an amount not less than the amount by which such expenditures exceeded such receipts. Suspends the provisions of this Act during a war or other national emergency if the President so recommends and the Congress by a two-thirds vote of each House agrees.
United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1974
Repeals, under the Social Security Act, the provisions for the establishment of Professional Standards Review Organizations to review services covered under the medicare and medicaid programs.
United States · United States Congress · 30 May 1974
Directs the Council on Environmental Quality to provide for a study of the alternatives to the Tocks Island Dam and Reservoir project affecting the Delaware River and surrounding areas.
United States · United States Congress · 30 May 1974
Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to develop a system for the payment, on a staggered or cyclical basis during each month, of old-age, survivors and disability insurance benefits and supplemental security income benefits under the Social Security Act. Requires that such system shall take effect not later than July 1, 1975.
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 1974
Controlled Substances Trafficking Act - Title I: Increased Penalties - Increases various criminal penalties under provisions of the comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970. Title II: Conditions of Release - Directs the judicial officer, in setting conditions of release for any person charged with an offense with respect to a controlled substance, to consider whether the person poses a danger to the safety of any other person, himself, or of the community, or to the property of others. States that where a person is charged with a violation with respect to a controlled substance, a special hearing shall be held by a judicial officer at the time of arraignment to determine whether the person may be released prior to trial. Sets forth criteria upon which the judicial officer shall deny release in the absence of compelling circumstances to justify the conclusion that the defendant, if released, will not become a fugitive or pose a danger to the safety of any other person or to the community. Permits the United States to appeal from orders granting pretrial release. Provides that a person denied release in connection with charges which subsequently result in a conviction for a violation with respect to a controlled substance shall not be released while awaiting sentence or after having filed a writ of certiorari in the absence of compelling circumstances.
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 1974
Provides, under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code relating to special rules governing employees, for a refund of Social Security taxes to members of specified religious faiths. Sets forth the rules governing the application for and manner of such refund. Provides for an exemption for employers engaged in farming, and their employees, where both are members of religious faiths opposed to participation in such tax program. Makes conforming amendments to the Social Security Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1974
Authorizes the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to conduct research and development programs to increase knowledge of tornadoes, hurricanes, large thunderstorms, and other types of short-term weather phenomena, and to develop methods for predicting, detecting, and monitoring such atmospheric behavior. Authorizes the appropriation of $10,000,000 to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1974
Provides, under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, that whenever the President deems it to be in the national interest, he shall endeavor to insure that, to the maximum extent practicable, such assistance shall be furnished only pursuant to agreements which provide for the exchange of necessary strategic or critical raw materials for such assistance. Defines the term "necessary strategic or critical raw materials" to include petroleum, fossil fuels, metals, minerals, or other substances which: (1) are in short supply in the United States or (2) the United States requirements of which are not produced in the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 4 April 1974
Medicare Long-Term Care Act - Establishes, under title XVIII of the Social Security Act (Medicare), a voluntary program to provide long-term care benefits for aged and disabled individuals who elect to enroll under such program, financed from premium payments by enrollees together with contributions from funds appropriated by the Federal Government and contributions by the States. Lists criteria for eligibility for long-term care service benefits. Provides that the benefits provided to an individual by this Act shall consist of (1) home health services, (2) homemaker services, (3) nutrition services, (4) long-term institutional care services, (5) day care and foster home services, and (6) community mental health center outpatient services. Enumerates the requirements for a State long-term care agency. Provides for the payment of premiums for benefits received under this Act. Establishes on the books of the Treasury of the United States a trust fund to be known as the Federal Long-Term Care Trust Fund. Creates a body to be known as the Board of Trustees, composed of the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Labor, and the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, all ex officio. States that the Secretary of the Treasury shall be the Managing Trustee of the Board of Trustees and that the Commissioner of Social Security shall serve as the Secretary of the Board of Trustees. Provides that the Board of Trustees shall meet not less frequently than once each calendar year. Enumerates the duties of the Board of Trustees. Declares that a community long-term care center shall: (1) provide the items and services listed in this Act to each individual (i) who is eligible for benefits under this part, (ii) who resides in the area served by such center and (iii) who is certified as requiring such services; (2) evaluate and certify the long-term care needs of an individual for whom such care may be required in order to maintain such individual in an independent living arrangement which is reasonable given such individual's state of health and other circumstances (but not including such individual's economic circumstances); (3) maintain a continuous relationship with (and periodically evaluate not less than annually) each individual who is receiving any of the items and services listed in this Act; (4) provide full opportunity for such individual and his family to participate in the determinations and functions under this Act; (5) provide an organized system for making its existence and location known to all individuals in its service area who are eligible for benefits under this part, and for making known to such individuals the method or methods by which they may most efficiently obtain and use the services which it makes available; and (6) performs such other functions as the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare may by regulation prescribe in order to have such center most effectively carry out the purposes of this Act. Provides a formula for payments to States for the reimbursement of community long-term care centers. Directs the Secretary, after consultation with organizations representing the chief executives of the various States, and other interested parties, to develop and make available to community long-term care centers one or more methods of obtaining payment for the benefits covered under this Act on a prospective basis. States that once a community long-term care center elects a particular prospective method, it may not alter its election without the prior approval of the Secretary. Provides that whenever the Secretary finds that the number of community long-term care centers electing a particular prospective payment method promulgated in accordance with this Act is not sufficient to provide an adequate basis for either the operation or evaluation of that method, the Secretary shall withdraw that method and allow the community long-term care centers which have elected such method to select another method withn 30 days of notice of such withdrawal. Permits a Governor of a State to certify to the Secretary a method of prospective payment other than those promulgated under this Act. States that the determination of whether an individual is entitled to benefits under this Act shall be made by the Secretary in accordance with regulations prescribed by him. Provides for increases in supplemental security income benefits.
United States · United States Congress · 4 April 1974
Directs the Joint Committee on the Library to procure a bronze bust or statue of Martin Luther King, Junior, and to cause such sculpture to be placed in a suitable location in the Capitol as determined by the Joint Committee on the Library.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1974
Surface Coal Mining Reclamation Act - Title I: Findings and Purposes - Sets forth the findings of Congress and declares the purposes of this Act. Title II: Control of Environmental Impacts of Surface Coal Mining Operations - Provides, as an interim regulatory procedure, that on and after 90 days from the date of enactment of this Act, no person shall open or develop any new or previously mined or abandoned site for surface coal mining operations on lands on which such operations are regulated by a State regulatory authority unless such person has obtained a permit from such regulatory authority. States that within 60 days from the date of enactment of this Act the State regulatory authority shall review and amend all existing permits in order to incorporate in them the interim surface coal mining and reclamation performance standards of this Act. Sets forth the interim surface coal mining and reclamation performance standards that shall be applicable to surface coal mining operations on lands on which such operations are regulated by a State regulatory authority. Declares that not later than the end of the 180 day period immediately following the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Interior shall promulgate and publish in the Federal Register regulations covering a permanent regulatory procedure for surface coal mining and reclamation operations setting permanent surface coal mining and reclamation performance standards, and procedures and requirements for preparation, submission and approval of State programs, and the development and implementation of Federal programs under this title. Provides that each State in which surface coal mining operations are or may be conducted, and which proposes to assume State regulatory authority under this Act, shall submit to the Secretary, by the end of the twenty-four month period beginning on the date of enactment of this Act, a State program which demonstrates that such State has the capability of carrying out the provisions of this Act. Establishes the procedure which the Secretary shall follow before approving any State program submitted under this Act. Directs the Secretary to prepare, promulgate, and implement a Federal program for the regulation of surface coal mining operations in any State which fails to submit a State program covering surface coal mining and reclamation operations by the end of the twenty-four month period beginning on the date of enactment of this Act; resubmit an acceptable State program, or portion thereof, within sixty days of disapproval of a proposed State program, in whole or in part; or adequately implement, enforce, or maintain a State program approved pursuant to this Act. Declares that the Secretary, and, in the case of national forest lands, the Secretary of Agriculture, shall conduct a review of the Federal lands and determine areas or types of areas on Federal lands which cannot be reclaimed with existing techniques to satisfy applicable standards and requirements of law. States that permits for surface coal mining will not be issued to mine such areas unless it is determined, with respect to any such permit, that the technology is available to satisfy applicable performance standards. Provides that in no event is an area to be designated unsuitable for surface coal mining operations on which surface coal mining operations are being conducted on the date of enactment of this Act, or under a permit issued pursuant to this Act, or where substantial legal and financial commitments in such operations are in existence prior to the date of enactment of this Act. Enumerates the permit application requirements. Declares that each applicant for a permit shall be required to submit to the regulatory authority, as part of the permit application, a surface coal mining and reclamation plan. Directs the regulatory authority to notify the applicant for a surface coal mining and reclamation permit within a period of time established by law or regulation, not to exceed ninety days, that the application has been approved or disapproved. Provides that after a surface coal mining and reclamation permit application has been approved but before such a permit is issued, the applicant shall file with the regulatory authority, on a form prescribed and furnished by the regulatory authority, a bond for performance payable, as appropriate, to the United States or the State, under an approved State program, and conditioned that the applicant shall faithfully perform all the applicable requirements under this Act. Makes provisions for the release of performance bonds or deposits. States that during the term of the permit the permittee may submit an application, together with a revised surface coal mining and reclamation plan, to the regulatory authority for a revision of the permit. Provides that any permit issued under any approved State or Federal program pursuant to this Act to conduct surface coal mining operations shall require that such surface coal mining operations shall meet all applicable surface coal mining and reclamation performance standards of this Act. Lists the general surface coal mining and reclamation performance standards that shall be applicable to all surface coal mining and reclamation operations. Lists the mining and reclamation performance standards to be applicable to steep-slope surface coal mining in addition to the general performance standards required by this Act. Provides mining and reclamation performance standards for surface operations incident to underground coal mining. States that the Secretary shall cause to be made such inspections of any surface coal mining and reclamation operations as are necessary to evaluate the administration of approved State programs, or to develop or enforce any Federal program, and for such purposes authorized representatives of the Secretary shall have a right of entry to, upon, or through any surface coal mining and reclamation operations. Provides that if the State regulatory authority, if one exists, fails, within ten days after notification of a violation of this Act, to cause that violation to be corrected or to show good cause for such failure and transmit notification of its action to the Secretary, the Secretary shall immediately order Federal inspection of the surface coal mining operation at which the alleged violation is occurring (unless the information available to the Secretary is a result of a previous Federal inspection of such surface coal mining operation). Allows any person having an interest which is or may be adversely affected by a notice or order issued as a result of the above inspection to apply to the Secretary for review of the notice or order within thirty days of its receipt or within thirty days of its modification, vacation, or termination. Provides a maximum civil penalty of $10,000 for each violation of this Act, and a criminal penalty, for willful and knowing violations of this Act, of not more than a $10,000 fine or imprisonment for not more than one year, or both. Makes provisions for the applicability of this Act to Federal lands. Title III: General Provisions and Administration - Declares that in carrying out his responsibilities under this Act the Secretary shall: (1) administer the State grant-in-aid program for the development of State programs for surface coal mining and reclamation operations provided for in this title; (2) maintain a continuing study of surface coal mining and reclamation operations in the United States; (3) assist the States in the development of State programs for surface coal mining and reclamation operations which meet the requirements of this Act; (4) publish and promulgate such rules and regulations as may be necessary to carry out the purposes and provisions of this Act; and (5) conduct hearings, administer oaths, issue subpenas, and compel the attendance of witnesses and production of written or printed materials as are necessary to carry out his duties under this Act. Directs the Secretary to conduct a full and complete study and investigation of the practices of backfilling all coal mine wastes and coal processing plant wastes in mine voids or other equally effective disposal methods and the control of subsidence to maximize the stability, value, and use of lands overlying underground coal mines. States that the Secretary shall report to the Congress the results of such study and investigation no later than the end of the two-year period beginning on the date of enactment of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to make annual grants to any State for the purpose of assisting such State in developing, administering and enforcing State programs under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 21 February 1974
Provides, under the Internal Revenue Code, that if an individual files his return for a taxable year before March 1 and if the refund of any overpayment of such tax is not made within 30 days after filing then interest shall be allowed on such overpayment for the period beginning on the date he filed such return and ending on whichever of the following is the earlier: (1) the date the refund check is mailed, or (2) the first date on which interest on such overpayment is allowed. Requires that whenever any refund is made to a taxpayer, the taxpayer shall be notified of: (1) the tax and the taxable period to which such refund is attributable, and (2) the reason for making such refund.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1974
Prohibits the sale of "Saturday Night Special" handguns in the United States as defined in this Act. Makes it unlawful for a licensed manufacturer or licensed importer to manufacture, assemble, or import, for the purpose of sale in the United States, any handgun, knowing or having reasonable cause to believe the basic structural components thereof are made: (1) of any material having a melting point (liquidus) of less than 1000 degrees Fahrenheit, or (2) of any material having an ultimate tensile strength of less than 55,000 pounds per square inch, or (3) of any powered metal having a density of less than 7.5 grams per cubic centimeter.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1974
Federal Paperwork Burden Relief Act - Directs the Comptroller General to conduct a study of the reporting requirements of Federal regulatory programs to determine the extent to which these requirements may be revised to lessen the burden upon small and independent business establishments. Requires the Comptroller General to report the results of such study to the Congress one year from the date of enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 December 1973
Authorizes increased production of petroleum from the Elk Hills Naval Petroleum Reserve at a rate to help insure that the needs of national defense are met, but not to exceed the maximum efficient rate in accordance with sound engineering and economic principles. Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to dispose of the production herein authorized by means of sales effected by competitive bid. Provides that full and equal opportunity for acquisition of the oil shall be accorded to all interested companies, including major and independent oil refineries alike. Establishes the Naval Petroleum Reserve Account. States that funds in the Account shall be available for the expenses of: (1) production, including preparation for production, as authorized by this resolution and as may hereafter be authorized; (2) all capital costs necessary for facilities both within and outside the reserve incident to production and delivery of crude petroleum; and (3) exploration, prospecting, conservation, development, use, and operation of the naval petroleum and oil shale reserves.
United States · United States Congress · 30 November 1973
Authorizes, under the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966, appropriations for fiscal years 1974, 1975, and 1976 to carry out the duties of the National Safety Council as provided in such Act. (Amends 15 U.S.C. 1409)
United States · United States Congress · 30 November 1973
Requires that all contracts by the United States Government for services and materials and all contracts financed by Federal funds shall be awarded to the lowest qualified bidder, including contracts for architectural and engineering work.
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
Rape Prevention and Control Act - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish, within the National Institute of Mental Health, the National Center for the Control and Prevention of Rape. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Center, to conduct a continuing study and investigation of specified areas, including: (1) the effectiveness of existing Federal, State and local laws dealing with rape; (2) the relationship, if any, between traditional legal and social attitudes toward sexual roles, the act of rape, and the formulation of laws dealing with rape; (3) the treatment of the victims of rape by law enforcement agencies, hospitals, or other medical institutions, prosecutors, and the courts; (4) the causes of rape; and (5) sexual assaults in correctional institutions. Provides that the Center shall compile and publish annually a summary of its findings. Directs the Center to develop an information clearinghouse with regard to enumerated materials regarding rape and rehabilitation of offenders. Authorizes appropriations of such sums as may be necessary for carrying out the purposes of this Act. Provides that the Secretary, through the National Center for the Control and Prevention of Rape, shall make grants to community mental health centers, nonprofit private organizations, and public agencies for the purpose of conducting research and demonstration projects concerning the control and prevention of rape. Authorizes appropriations for such purposes. Requires the Secretary to establish an advisory committee to advise, consult with, and make recommendations to him on matters relating to rape prevention and control.
United States · United States Congress · 13 November 1973
Provides that the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency may, for any period beginning on or after the date of enactment of this section and ending on or before May 15, 1974, temporarily suspend any stationary source fuel or emission limitation as it applies to any person, if the Administrator finds that such person will be unable to comply with such limitation during such period solely because of unavailability of types or amounts of fuels. Provides that after public notice and opportunity for presentation of views, the Administrator may, for any period beginning after May 15, 1974, and ending not later than June 30, 1977, temporarily suspend any stationary source fuel or emission limitation as it applies to any person if the Administrator finds that such person will be unable to comply with such limitation solely because of the unavailability of types or amounts of fuels. States that a suspension granted under this paragraph shall be granted only for the period during which the person to whom it applies can reasonably be expected to be unable to obtain fuels or an emission reduction system necessary to permit him to comply with the stationary source fuel or emission limitation which it suspends. Requires the Administrator to study, and report to Congress not later than March 31, 1974, with respect to: (1) the present and projected impact on the program under this Act of fuel shortages and of allocation and rationing programs; (2) availability of scrubber technology (including projections respecting the time, cost, and number of units available); (3) projections of air quality impact of fuel shortages and allocations; and (4) evaluation of alternative control strategies for other sulfur emitting sources, including desulfurization of home heating fuels, cost, time frames, and feasibility effectiveness. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to report to Congress not later than January 3, 1975, on the implementation of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 November 1973
Geothermal Energy Research, Development, and Commercial Demonstration Act - Requires the Director of the National Science Foundation to initiate and support basic and applied research relating to geothermal energy development. Requires the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to initiate and carry out commercial demonstrations, research, and development in geothermal energy technology. Provides that the Administration shall dispose of, by sublease or otherwise, all projects undertaken under this Act. Directs the Administration to assure the protection of the environment, persons, and property in projects undertaken pursuant to this Act. Requires the Administration to report to the Congress and the President every six months on the progress made under this Act. Authorizes appropriations for six fiscal years of $80,000,000 to carry out programs under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 November 1973
Federal Criminal Justice System Reorganization Act - Declares that it is the purpose of this Act to reorganize, unify and coordinate Federal activities relating to the problems of criminal justice. Transfers specified duties and functions to the Attorney General. Abolishes the Advisory Corrections Council and the Federal Board of Parole. Establishes in the Department of Justice the Criminal Justice Services Administration to be headed by an Administrator appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Provides for a Deputy Administrator of the Criminal Justice Services Administration. Creates within the Administration the National Criminal Justice Board to be composed of eleven members (one from each judicial circuit) who shall represent diverse backgrounds. Makes it the duty of such Board: (1) to formulate, promulgate, and oversee a national policy on the treatment of persons under the jurisdiction of courts of the United States; (2) to prescribe the duties of probation officers; and (3) to perform such other duties as the Administrator may require. Provides for the publication of proposed guidelines, for making objections thereto, and for the holding of public hearings on such objections. Establishes in each judicial district a Criminal Justice Office, composed of not less than three members appointed by the Attorney General. Provides that immediately following the arrest of a person charged with a Federal offense, the case shall be assigned to the appropriate District Office, which shall: (1) investigate the defendant's background and the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense and make such information available to the appropriate judicial officer or court, along with a recommendation as to the setting of bail; (2) recommend, if indicated, mental observation; (3) submit, within thirty days of arrest, a written report to the counsel of record for such defendant, and the office of the United States Attorney having jurisdiction over the case, and the appropriate judicial officer or court. States that such report shall set forth the findings and conclusions of the District Office as to any physical, mental, social, economic, or other problems of the defendant, and shall state whether diversion of the defendant from the criminal justice system of prosecution is desirable and, if desirable, the type of diversion recommended. Provides for the filing of additional reports by the Office when a defendant is convicted of a Federal offense. Specifies the content of such reports, including recommended sentence, reason for imprisonment and goals for the offender to attain while imprisoned. Directs the District Office to carry out, with respect to a defendant who has been sentenced, the function relating to probation, parole, or other form of release transferred to the Administration by the Federal Criminal Justice System Reorganization Act. Establishes within the Administration a Bureau of Juvenile Justice which shall be headed by a Director, appointed by the President of the United States, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Makes the Director responsible for all functions transferred to the Administration pursuant to the Federal Criminal Justice System Reorganization Act. Establishes within the Administration the Office of Ombudsman of the Federal Criminal Justice System, which shall be headed by a Director. Provides that any petition for collateral review of a conviction filed by a Federal offender, or any petition filed by an inmate in a State or Federal penal or correctional institution for redress of grievances concerning conditions within such institution, may be referred by the court to the Office of Ombudsman of the Federal Criminal Justice System. Provides that the Office shall have ninety days within which to consider such petition and, if possible, to resolve the matter contained therein. Creates, within the Administration, the Bureau of Federal Criminal Justice Coordination which shall conduct a continuing study of all Federal activities within the Federal Criminal Justice System. Provides that the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration and the Bureau of Prisons shall be within the Administration. Authorizes necessary appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 November 1973
Requires the United States Olympic Committee to hold public proceedings before it may alter its constitution. Requires arbitration of specified amateur athletic disputes.
United States · United States Congress · 6 November 1973
Election Campaign Espionage Act - Provides that whoever, being an employee of any candidate or political committee, provides any personal service to any other candidate or any political committee supporting any other candidate, with the intent of interfering with any election activity, shall be fined not more than $10,000 or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both. States that whoever uses any contribution or campaign funds to aid in the commission of any offense against the United States or any State, shall be fined not more than $10,000 or imprisoned not more than ten years, or both. Penalizes the concealment of violations of this Act. (Adds 18 U.S.C. 614)
United States · United States Congress · 30 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 · 29 October 1973
Authorizes the President to call a White House Conference on the Handicapped within two years of enactment in order to develop recommendations for further research and action in the field of the handicapped, and to further the policies set forth in this joint resolution. Provides that such conference shall be planned and conducted under the direction of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare with the cooperation and assistance of such other Federal departments and agencies, including the assignment of personnel, as may be appropriate. Require a final report of the White House Conference on the Handicapped to be submitted to the President not later than 120 days following the date on which the conference is called, and the findings and recommendations included therein to be made available immediately to the public. Requires the Secretary, within 90 days after the submission of such report, to transmit to the President and the Congress his recommendations for the administrative action and legislation necessary to implement the recommendations contained in such report. Gives the Secretary administrative powers to carry out this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish an Advisory Committee on the White House Conference on the Handicapped composed of 28 members, of whom not less than 15 shall be handicapped or parents of handicapped persons. Provides that such Advisory Committee shall cease to exist 90 days after the submission of the final report required by this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated $2,000,000 to carry out this joint resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 16 October 1973
National Homestead Act - Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to compile a catalog of all unoccupied single-family dwellings in urban and other areas within the Unites States which are owned by him or his Department, and which would be suitable for occupancy and rehabilitation by qualified low and moderate-income families. Requires the Secretary to take such steps as may be necessary to assure that the residents of each community or area in which any such dwelling is located will be fully and currently informed of the existence, nature, and location of such dwellings. States that an applicant is qualified, for the purposes of participation in the program under this Act with respect to any dwelling, only if he or she (1) is eighteen years of age or older, (2) is the head of his or her household, (3) is a citizen of the United States, (4) has not previously participated in the program, (5) is not the owner of any other real property, and (6) possesses the financial, technical, and other resources which are necessary to rehabilitate such dwelling. Requires each applicant to enter into an agreement that, among other things, he or she will reside in the dwelling for a period of at least five years and will during such period rehabilitate and maintain the dwelling so that it satisfies all of the requirements of applicable State and local law. States that the conveyance of any dwelling to an applicant under this Act shall be made on a conditional basis, in return for the payment by such applicant of $1 and the execution by such applicant of the aforementioned agreement. Provides that upon any material failure by the applicant to carry out his or her agreement entered into under this Act the conditional conveyance of title to such applicant shall be revoked. States that after the applicant has resided in the dwelling for the required five-year period and has rehabilitated and maintained it and otherwise complied with the terms of his or her agreement throughout such period, he shall be granted a fee simple title to such property.
United States · United States Congress · 16 October 1973
Pollution Control Facility Loan Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to make loans to finance projects within eligible areas for acquisition, construction, rehabilitation, alteration, expansion, or improvement of a certified pollution control facility. States that such loans shall not exceed 65 percent of the aggregate cost to the applicant of the project. Establishes a revolving fund in the Treasury for making such loans. Authorizes an appropriation of $750,000,000 to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 12 October 1973
Provides, under the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, that blood donations shall be considered as charitable contributions deductible from gross income in an amount equal to $25 for each pint donated. (Amends 26 U.S.C. 170(i))
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1973
Establishes a Federal Privacy Board. Directs the Board to prescribe rules for the regulation of automatically processed files identifiable to individuals. Provides that no data bank may be maintained except as provided in this Act. Provides for penalties for violations of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1973
Provides that in the determination of the annual income of recipients of vetetans' pensions and dependency and indemnity compensation the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs shall not reduce the amount of such pension or compensation because of increases in monthly social security benefits under Public law 92-336. (Adds 38 U.S.C. 415(g)(4) 503(d))
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1973
Fair Labor Standards Amendments - Provides for an increase in the minimum wage to $2.30 a hour over a specified period for employees covered before 1966, nonagricultural employees covered in 1966 and 1973, and agricultural employees. States that such increase shall not apply to employees in Puerto Rico or the Virgin Islands, of the United States or of the government of the Virgins Islands; of a hotel, motel, or restaurant; or of any other retail or service establishment engaged in the preparation of food. Establishes the minimum wage rate for such employees as equal to that of employees in States, as prescribed under this Act. Provides for the appointment of a special industry committee to recommended for employees in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, the highest minimum wage rates. Includes Federal and States employees in the minimum wage coverage and defines such employees. Establishes minimum wage rates for domestic service employees Excludes from overtime rates specified tobacco employees. Exempts for two years telegraph agency employees from the maximum hours provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. Establishes overtime rate requirements for seafood canning and processing employees; nursing home employees; hotel, motel, and restaurant employees; salesmen, partsmens, and mechanics; food service employees; bowling employees; substitute parents for institutionalized children; cotton ginning and sugar processing employees; and employees of conglomerates. Establishes maximum hour requirement for seasonal industry employees, and local transit employees, and overtime rate requirements for local transit employees. Exempts from overtime rate requirements motion picture theatre employees and certain lumber and logging industry employees. Establishes special minimum wage rates for full-time students and persons under 18. Provides that the Secretary shall by regulation prescribe standards and requirements to insure that this subsection will not create a substantial probability of reducing the full-time employment opportunities of persons other than those to whom these minimum wage rate authorized by this subsection. Exempts specified agricultural workers from the child labor provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act. Establishes a civil penalty for violations of the child labor provisions. Requires the Secretary to conduct studies on the justification or lack thereof for each of the special overtime rate exemptions and the economic effects of the application of such exemptions to such employees, and to submit a report of his findings and recommendations to the Congress with respect to the studies conducted not later than January 1, 1976. Provides that, except as otherwise specifically provided, the amendments made by this Act shall take effect on the first day of the second full months which begins after the date of the enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1973
Provides, under the Merchant Marine Act, that the appropriate agencies take steps to assure that at least 20 per cent of the gross tonnage of all petroleum and petroleum products imported into the United States on ocean vessels be transported on privately owned United States flag commercial vessels. Requires that the quantity to be carried in United States-flag commercial vessels be at least 25 per cent after June 30, l975, and at least 30 per cent after June 30, l977. (Amends 46 U.S.C. 1241))
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1973
Constitutional Amendment - Provides that nothing contained in the U.S. Constitution shall abridge the right of persons lawfully assembled, in any public building which is supported in whole or in part through the expenditure of public funds, to participate in voluntary prayer.
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1973
Emergency Medical Services Systems Act - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to and enter into contracts with eligible entities for projects which include both studying the feasibility of establishing and operating an emergency medical services system, and planning the establishment and operation of such a system. Requires that the reports of the results of any study and planning project assisted under this Act shall be submitted to the Secretary and the Interagency Committee on Emergency Medical Services. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to and enter into contracts with eligible entities for the establishment and initial operation of emergency medical services systems. Sets forth the standards for such grants and contracts. States that, in considering applications which demonstrate exceptional need for financial assistance, the Secretary shall give special consideration to applications submitted for emergency medical services systems for rural areas. Directs the Secretary to make grants to and enter into contracts with eligible entities for projects for the expansion and improvement of emergency medical services systems, including the acquisition of equipment and facilities, the modernization of facilities, and other projects to expand and improve such systems. States that the amount of any grant or contract under this section for a project shall not exceed 50 percent of the cost of that project. Stipulates that the Secretary may make grants to public or private nonprofit entities, and enter into contracts with private entities and individuals, for the support of research in emergency medical techniques, methods, devices, and delivery. States that no grant may be made or contract entered into under this section for amounts in excess of $35,000, unless the application therefore has been recommended for approval by an appropriate peer review panel designated or established by the Secretary. Sets forth general provisions with respect to grants and contracts authorized under this Act. Establishes specified requirements for emergency medical services systems. Authorizes to be appropriated specified amounts for grants and contracts made pursuant to this Act for the fiscal years 1974, 1975, and 1976. Directs the Secretary to establish an Interagency Committee on Emergency Medical Services to evaluate the adequacy and technical soundness of all Federal programs and activities which relate to emergency medical services. Directs the Committee to make recommendations to the Secretary respecting the administration of contracts under this Act. Requires the Secretary to prepare and submit annually to the Congress a report on the administration of this Act. Directs the Secretary to make grants to and enter into contracts with schools of medicine, dentistry, osteopathy, and nursing and training centers for allied health professions, and other appropriate educational entities to assist in meeting the cost of training programs in the techniques and methods of providing emergency medical services. Authorizes to be appropriated $10,000,000 for the fiscal year 1974 for the purpose of making payments pursuant to grants and contracts under this section.