United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1973
Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to make grants of (1) $4,500,000 to the Eisenhower College, New York; and (2) $500,000 to the Rayburn Library, Texas, in fiscal year 1974.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1973
Uniformed Services Retirement Pay Equalization Act - Provides that the retired pay of each retired officer of the Navy or the Marine Corps shall be computed on the basis of rates of pay provided by law at the time of his retirement or subsequently for officers on the active list. Permits retired members of the uniformed service, who were retired by reason of physical disability and who are entitled to retired or retainer pay computed under the Career Compensation Act of 1949, to elect within the one-year period following the effective date of this Act, to receive disability retirement pay under this Act in lieu of that retired or retainer pay to which they are otherwise entitled. (Adds 10 U.S.C. 6149)
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1973
Authorizes the establishment of the Fort Mifflin National Historic Site in the State of Pennsylvania. Authorizes necessary appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1973
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 short-term weather phenomena, and to develop methods for predicting, detecting, and monitoring such atmospheric behavior. A bill to authorize 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.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1973
United States Court of Labor Relations Act - Establishes a 5-man United States Court of Labor-Management Relations empowered to assume jurisdiction in dead-locked labor disputes which the President determines imperil the national interest. Requires such judges to be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Permits either the Attorney General or any party to the labor dispute to invoke the jurisdiction of the court, but only after procedures under the Labor-Management Relations Act of 1947 have been exhausted. Provides that the court may enjoin an actual or threatened strike for 80 days and issue whatever orders may be necessary during that time to require the parties to make every effort to settle their differences through negotiations. Provides that if the stalemate has not been broken during such 80 day period, and it is apparent that futher bargaining will be futile, the court will continue the injunction and schedule immediate hearings for a final and binding judgement covering wages, hours, and other points of conflict. Provides that any final judgement, order, or decree of the court shall be the subject of a full written opinion in each case, containing a statement of the facts which the court finds and the legal principles and standards which the court uses as a basis for such judgment, order, or decree. Provides that a judgment, order, or decree of the court shall remain in effect until the expiration by its own terms occurs or when vacated by the court. Provides that whenever a matter before any agency or board established by the United States is the subject of a proceeding in the court, that agency or board, if also ordered by the court, shall suspend all proceedings in such matter and may be resumed by the agency or board only if (and to the extent that) an order of the court so provides.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1973
Provides, under the Internal Revenue Code, that no Federal Agency may inspect any income tax return except upon an order of the President which identifies by name the person who filed such return. Makes it an offense to make unauthorized disclosures to divulge or publish any name, address or occupation.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1973
Provides former members of the Armed Services and their dependents medical and dental care in uniformed services facilities during the sixty-day period after discharge or separation. Makes such persons eligible for post exchange and commissary privileges during such sixty-day period.
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1973
Multiprotection of Employee Retirement Income and Trust Act - Declares it to be the policy of this Act to protect interstate commerce and the interests of participants in employee benefit plans and their beneficiaries, by requiring the disclosure and reporting to participants and beneficiaries of financial and other information with respect thereto, by establishing standards of fiduciary conduct, responsibility, and obligation upon all persons who exercise any powers of control, management, or dispositions with respect to employee benefit funds or have authority or responsibility to do so, or have authority or responsibility in the administration of employee benefit plans, and by providing for appropriate remedies, sanctions, and ready access to the Federal courts. Title I: Fiduciary Responsibility and Disclosure - Provides that this title shall apply to any employee benefit plan if it is established or maintained by any employer engaged in commerce or in any industry or activity affecting commerce, or both. Provides that the administrator of an employee benefit plan shall cause to be published in accordance with this Act to each participant or beneficiary covered thereunder a description of the plan and an annual financial report. States that such description shall be published within 270 days after such plan is established and shall be written in a manner calculated to be understood by the average plan participant. Provides that an annual report shall be published with respect to any employee benefit plan to which this title applies. Sets forth the information that shall be contained in such report. Provides that the administrator of any employee benefit plan subject to this Act shall file with the Secretary of Labor a copy of the plan description and each annual report. States that the Secretary may reject any such filing after notice, hearing, and determination by the Secretary that such filing is incomplete for the purpose of this title. Sets forth criminal penalties for intentional violations of this title. Provides that civil actions may be brought under this title by a participant or beneficiary: (1) for personal liability to such participant or beneficiary for failure to provide information required under this Act; or (2) to recover benefits due him under the terms of his plan or to clarify his rights to future benefits. Authorizes such actions by: (1) the Secretary, or by a participant, beneficiary or fiduciary, for appropriate relief under the fudiciary responsibility provisions of this Act; or (2) by the Secretary to enjoin any act or practice which appears to him to violate any provision of this title. Provides that the contents of the descriptions and regular annual reports filed with the Secretary pursuant to this title shall be public information. Provides for the bonding of persons who have fiduciary responsibilities under this title and of persons who handle funds or other property of an employee benefit plan. Sets forth the fiduciary responsibilities of the administrators of plans covered by this Act. Sets forth provisions governing the distribution of net assets upon the termination of a pension plan. Establishes an Advisory Council on Employee Welfare and Pension Benefit Plans to advise the Secretary with respect to the carrying out of his functions under this title. Title II: Vesting - Provides that this title shall apply to any employee pension benefit plan if it is established or maintained by an employer engaged in commerce or in any industry or activity affecting or by such employer together with any employee organization representing employees engaged in commerce or in any industry or activity affecting commerce; or if such plan is established or maintained by any employer or by any employer together with any employee organization and if, in the course of its activities, such plan, directly or indirectly, uses any means or instruments of transportation or communication in interstate commerce or the mails. Excludes from the coverage of this title any employee pension benefit plan if: it is administered by the Federal Government or by an agency or instrumentality of the Federal Government: it is established for the benefit of self-employed individual or owner-employees; it covers not more than 25 participants; it is established and maintained outside the United States primarily for the benefit of persons who are not citizens of the United States and the situs of the fund is maintained outside the United States; or such plan is unfunded and established primarily to provide deferred compensation for a select group of management employees. Specifies that no pension plan subject to this title may provide as a condition of eligibility a period of service longer than 1 year or age higher than 25 years. Establishes certain nonforfeitable rights on the part of employees to receive benefits in accordance with specified categories and requirements. Prohibits any plan from providing for forfeiture of accrued employee beenfits. Stipulates that in computing the period of service under a plan, the employee's entire service with the contributing employer must be considered, except in specified instances. Title III: Funding - Provides that this title applies to the same employee benefit pension plans as does title II and excludes from coverage those plans excluded under title II. States that the minimum contribution to any pension plan for each plan year beginning after the effective date of this title shall be equal to the excess of: (1) the sum of the minimum standard contributions for each plan year beginning after the effective date of this title, over (2) the total of the amounts contributed to or under the plan for each of the preceding plan years beginning after the effective date of this title. Requires the administrator of the plan to file an annual statement with the Secretary containing the following information: (1) the numbers of years the plan has been in effect; (2) the date and amount of the contribution made by the plan for the plan year for which the report is filed and contributions for prior plan years not previously reported; and (3) the amount of the minimum contribution, the normal costs, accrued liabilities, present value of accrued nonforfeitable benefits, value of assets, an identification of other benefits, and a statement of the other facts and actuarial assumptions used in the calculation of the minimum contribution under this title. Provides that whenever the required payment cannot be made by the employer or the other contributing parties, the Secretary may waive part or all of the minimum contributions for that fiscal year, and prescribe an additional period of not more than 5 years for the amortization of the funding deficiency occurring in that fiscal year. Prohibits any merger with another pension plan unless a qualified actuary: (1) determines that each participant in each plan would receive a termination benefit equal to that which he would have received before the merger; and (2) includes such determination in the next year's funding status report. Title IV: Registration, Enforcement, and Miscellaneous Provisions - Requires the registration with the Secretary of plans covered under this Act. Empowers the Secretary to petition any U.S. district court having jurisdiction to require compliance with the registration provisions of this title. Sets forth provisions concerning civil enforcement of the vesting and funding titles of this Act. Establishes a Variation Appeal Board to hear and determine appeals from decisions denying variations under titles II and III. Authorizes the Secretary to undertake research studies on: (1) the effects of this Act upon the provisions and costs of pension plans; (2) the role of private pensions in meeting the economic security needs of the nation; and (3) the operation of public and private pension plans. Provides for cooperation and mutual assistance by other Federal agencies and departments. States that it shall be unlawful for any person to discharge, fire, or discriminate against a participant or beneficiary for exercising any right extended under this Act. Stipulates that titles II and III of this Act supersede any and all State and local laws relating to the vesting, eligibility, and funding responsibilities of persons acting on behalf of employee pension benefit plans.
United States · United States Congress · 18 July 1973
Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to accept specified applications for the registration of DDT as a pesticide to be used to eliminate the gypsy moth from forest lands.
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 1973
Authorizes a tax adjustment program for small businesses and for persons engaged in small business. Authorizes a tax deduction under the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 for a person engaged in a trade or business in an amount measured by the additional investment in such trade or business for the taxable year. Limits such tax deductions to $40,000 or 20 percent of the net income of such trade or business for the taxable year.
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 1973
Provides that regulations under the Clean Air Act shall require that any vehicle or engine to which emission standards under such Act apply shall comply with such emission standards at that altitude, up to seven thousand feet above mean sea level, at which such vehicle or engine is sold to the ultimate purchaser. Authorizes State agencies to prescribe regulations under the Clean Air Act authorizing specific modifications by the manufacturer or dealer of any motor vehicle emission control system if such modifications are within reasonable cost limits and are necessary to assure that such system functions in compliance with the provisions of such Act under normal driving conditions in the appropriate State, including high altitude conditions. Authorizes the appropriation of up to $750,000 through June 30, 1975, for the purpose of studying the problems of motor vehicle emissions peculiar to urban areas located more than four thousand five hundred feet above mean sea level.
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 1973
Establishes a Joint Committee on Energy in the Congress of the United States. Provides that such Joint Committee shall make a continuing investigation and study of the problems relating to the development and use of all forms of energy.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1973
Expresses the finding of Congress that wild and domestic animals and birds are needlessly maimed through the use of steel leghold traps. Declares it to be the policy of Congress to prevent this unnecessary suffering through discouraging the use of such traps and devices. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to issue regulations relating to acceptable means for the trapping and capturing of mammals and birds on Federal lands in a humane manner. Establishes an advisory commission to advise the Secretary with respect to traps designed for capturing mammals or birds. Provides criminal penalties for (1) transporting unapproved traps in interstate or foreign commerce; (2) interstate shipment of hides or feathers taken by unapproved traps; and (3) placing unapproved traps on Federal lands. Authorizes appropriations of such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1973
Declares that the House of Representatives congratulates Hank Aaron for his accomplishments both on and off the playing field, and wishes him the greatest of success in his epic attempt to surpass Babe Ruth's historic home run mark.
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1973
Alaskan Petroleum Transmission Act - Finds that, since energy sources are in short supply, the Congress should act to hasten recovery of underground petroleum on the North Slope of Alaska. Declares it to be the national policy that no decision be made for recovery of petroleum from the North Slope of Alaska until Congress has opportunity to review such plans. Directs the Comptroller General of the United States to conduct a thorough study of the two principal alternative routes for recovering petroleum reserves from the North Slope of Alaska. Outlines such routes as: (1) a trans-Alaska pipeline from the North Slope to Valdez, Alaska, and then by ocean-going oil tanker taken to the west coast of the United States; and (2) an overland pipeland from the North Slope across northeastern Alaska and through Canada to the midwest section of the United States. Directs the comptroller to report his findings and conclusions to the Congress no later than January 1, 1974. Specifies the considerations to be used in making the study. Authorizes the Comptroller to enter into contracts with the National Academy of Sciences in conducting the study, and to secure information from any Federal department, agency or instrumentality. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior and other appropriate Federal officials to enter into negotiations with Canada to determine the feasibility of a right-of-way across Canadian territory for petroleum transmission facilities from the North Slope of Alaska. Directs the Secretary to report the results of their negotiations to the Congress and the Comptroller no later than December 1, 1973. Requires all reports to the Congress under this Act be filed with the Clerk of the House of Representatives and the Secretary of the Senate. Prohibits any order or rule of the Secretary of the Interior , or any other Federal agency or officer of the United States, granting a right-of-way, easement, or special land use permit on any Federal land for the construction and operation of a pipeline for the transmission of petroleum from the North Slope in Alaska from taking effect until the 60-day period beginning on the date the Comptroller files his final report. Allows the Secretary to grant such right-of-way or easements after the 60-day period as he deems necessary for construction of a petroleum transmission system along a route determined by the Comptroller to be the better of two principal alternative routes, unless Congress has disapproved such a route by concurrent resolution. Allows such rights-of-way or easements be granted for such width as the Secretary determines necessary without regard to the National Environmental Policy Act. Provides that action of the Secretary under this section shall not be reviewable by any court of the United States or in any State court. Outlines the congressional procedure in making a concurrent resolution concerning the proposed route and in referring the matter to committee. Limits debate on the resolution to no more than 10 hours. Authorizes necessary funds to carry out the Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1973
Increases the appropriations authorized under the Small Business Act. Empowers the Small Business Administration to make disaster loans necessary to assist small business concerns in effecting plant alterations imposed pursuant to Federal law. States that the interest rate for such loans may not be lower than the rate for loans made in connection with physical disasters. Provides that the Small Business Administration may cancel $2,500 of specified loans, and/or reduce the interest rate, when such loans were made in connection with a disaster occurring between April 20, 1973, and July 1, 1975. Expands disaster loans to include loans: (1) to persons raising livestock who suffer substantial economic injury as a result of animal disease; (2) for erosion disasters; and (3) to assist small businesses who have suffered economic injury as the result of the closing by the Federal government of a major military institution, or as a result of a severe reduction in the scope of operations at a military installation. Requires the Small Business Administration to make an annual report to the President, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives on the state of small business. Provides that the Administrator shall not discriminate against any person or small business concern, nor discriminate in favor of any person or small business concern receiving assistance from the Small Business Administration based on race, color, creed or national origin.
United States · United States Congress · 29 May 1973
Food Supplement Amendment - Defines the term "food supplement" for purposes of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetics Act to mean food for special dietary uses, and defines the meaning of "special dietary uses" as particular uses of food for man which meets specified requirements. Provides that in administering such Act the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare: (1) shall not limit the potency, number, combination, amount, or variety of any synthetic or natural vitamin, mineral, substance, or ingredient of any food supplement unless such article is intrinsically injurious to health in the recommended dosage; and (2) shall not require a warning label on any food supplement unless such article is intrinsically injurious to health in the recommended dosage.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1973
Establishes the American Revolution Bicentennial Administration; an American Revolutionary Bicentennial Advisory Council; a Federal Agency Bicentennial Organization; and the American Revolution Bicentennial Board. Sets forth the duties and functions of these bodies. Provides that the Council, Board, Federal Organization, and the Administration shall cease on and after December 31, 1976. Authorizes appropriations for such bodies. Establishes the Joint Committee on the American Revolution Bicentennial. Provides that the Committee shall make a continuing study of the activities of the American Revolution Bicentennial Administration. Requires periodic reports by the Committee.
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 1973
States that a household shall not participate in the food stamp program while any of its members is on strike. Provides that such ineligibility shall not apply to any household that was eligible for and participating in the food stamp program immediately prior to the start of such strike, dispute, or other similar action in which any member of such household engages. (Amends 7 U.S.C. 2014, 2012)
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1973
Prohibits the inspection of income tax records by the Department of Agriculture. Allows limited information from such records concerning farming operations to be furnished to the Department. (Adds 26 U.S.C. 36103(g))
United States · United States Congress · 9 May 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 · 8 May 1973
Schoolbus Safety Act - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish standards which require schoolbuses be equipped with seat backs of sufficient height and design to prevent, to the extent possible, any injury to each seated passenger and the driver. Makes standards applicable to buses manufactured after June 30, 1972. Authorizes the Attorney General to commence a civil action in the United States district courts to obtain a temporary or permanent injunction restraining any person from violating the Act. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make grants to nay State or political subdivision thereof or to any school system to pay all or part of the cost of complying with the Act. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the Act. (Amends 15 U.S.C. 1392, 1395)
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 1973
Provides that no State, or political subdivision thereof, or the District of Columbia, shall have the power to impose, for any taxable year ending after the date of enactment of this Act, any tax on the income of an individual who is not a resident of such State or the District of Columbia.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1973
Establishes the American Revolution Bicentennial Administration; an American Revolutionary Bicentennial Advisory Council; a Federal Agency Bicentennial Organization; and the American Revolution Bicentennial Board. Sets forth the duties and functions of these bodies. Provides that the Council, Board, Federal Organization, and the Administration shall cease on and after December 31, 1976. Authorizes appropriations for such bodies. Establishes the Joint Committee on the American Revolution Bicentennial. Provides that the Committee shall make a continuing study of the activities of the American Revolution Bicentennial Administration. Requires periodic reports by the Committee.
United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1973
Better Communities Act - Sets forth the findings of Congress and the purpose of this Act. Defines the terms used in the Act. Enumerates the community development activities for which a recipient may utilize shared Federal revenues provided under this Act. Requires the recipient, prior to receiving any funds, to prepare a final statement of community development objectives and projected use of funds for the fiscal year, and to provide the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development with a certification that the recipient is in full compliance with the public requirements and other provisions of this Act. Declares that within 60 days after the close of the fiscal year, the recipient shall make public and shall forward to the Secretary a report of the activities paid for during the fiscal year. Provides formulae for the allocation and distribution of funds. Permits loans to finance any community development activity. Prohibits, on the ground of race, color, national origin, or sex, discrimination under any program or activity funded under this Act, and provides the means of enforcement of this provision. Sets forth the labor standards to be observed. Authorizes the Secretary to terminate any urban renewel project being carrred out as soon as practicable after consultation with the agency carrying out the project and the chief executive of the locality in which it is located, and to effect a financial closeout as if the project had been fully completed on the termination date. Requires records, audits, and reports of revenues shared under this Act. Prohibits a Federal contribution, in addition to shared revenue funds, to recipients for costs incurred in providing relocation payments and assistance for those displaced by community development activities assisted under this Act. Includes remedies for noncompliance with this Act and authorizes the Secretary to prescribe regulations necessary to carry out the purposes and conditions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 April 1973
Provides for the establishment of the Cuyahoga Valley National Historical Park and Recreation Area between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire necessary land, and to administer the park. Establishes the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Recreation Commission to assist the Secretary in his responsibilities under this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 April 1973
Permits, under title II of the Social Security Act (Old-Age, Survivors', and Disability Insurance), the payment of benefits to a married couple on their combined earnings record where that method of computation produces a higher combined benefit.
United States · United States Congress · 17 April 1973
Increases to $750 in all cases the amount of the lump-sum death payment under title II (Old-Age, Survivor's, and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act.
United States · United States Congress · 16 April 1973
Makes inapplicable to the aged, blind and disabled the existing provision of the Social Security Act limiting to 10 percent the portion of the total amounts paid to a State as grants for social services which may be paid with respect to individuals who are not actually recipients of or applicants for aid or assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 12 April 1973
National Catastrophic Disaster Insurance Act - Establishes a program of Federal insurance against catastrophic natural disasters and other such disasters utilizing the private insurance industry, particularly risk-sharing pools of insurance companies, while preserving State regulation. Establishes, within the office of the Federal Insurance Administrator in the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the position of Assistant Insurance Administrator for Disaster Insurance, who shall head an office of Federal Disaster Insurance. Authorizes the Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development to: (1) impose and collect an insurance premium surcharge which may not exceed 5 percent and may vary on a statewide regional, country wide basis, or any combination of these; (2) determine and prescribe the terms, conditions, and limitations of the catastrophic disaster insurance program as provided under this Act; (3) purchase reinsurance to the extent deemed appropriate and available; (4) make such disbursements from a special fund established in the U.S. Treasury for operations under this Act in order to reimburse insurance companies in full for claims paid by them for covered losses under the Act's program and for other operating expenses incurred by such companies under the program; and (5) make other disbursements and take other actions necessary to carry out the purposes of the Act. Extends as mandatory the coverage of castatrophic disasters in each property insurance policy now in effect or hereafter issued, other than motor vehicle insurance policies. Establishes in U.S. Treasury a fund to be used by the Secretary for operating and capital expenses under this Act. Forbids coverage of new catastrophic disaster insurance where in violation of State or local laws or where the Secretary determines an area to be of special catastrohpic disaster risk. Prohibits the duplications of benefits where loss is covered by a valid claim paid under catastrophic disaster insurance under this Act. Provides for the termination of the Act's program no later than June 30, 1975 if catastrophic disaster insurance equal or increased coverage is provided by private insurance companies.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1973
Provides that, beginning one year after enactment of this Act, no law enforcement grants under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 will be made to State and local governments unless these units of government have instituted a law enforcement officer's grievance system and have enacted into law a "Law Enforcement Officers' Bill of Rights" which will cover all law enforcement officers in the States. Declares that this Bill of Rights shall provide law enforcement officers statutory protection for certain rights enjoyed by other citizens. Requires the bill of rights to provide, at a minimum, the following: (1) law enforcement officers shall not be prohibited from engaging in political activity, except when on duty or acting in an official capacity; (2) when an officer is subject to an investigation that could lead to disciplinary action or criminal charges: (a) the investigation shall be conducted at a reasonable hour, preferably while the officer is on duty, (b) the investigation shall occur at the office of the investigating officer or at the precinct where the incident occurred, (c) there shall be one interrogator asking all questions to the officer and the names of all investigating officers shall be known by him, (d) the officer shall know the nature of the investigation and the names of complainants, (e) all civilian complaints must be duly sworn to before an official authorized to administer oaths, (f) interrogating sessions shall be of reasonable length, (g) the officer under investigation shall not be subject to abuse or threats, (h) all interrogations shall be recorded, (i) if the officer is to be placed under arrest, he shall be fully informed of his rights before interrogation, and (j) the officer shall have a right to counsel who shall be present during any interrogations dealing with the officer's continued fitness for law enforcement service; (3) citizen review boards having porportionate police representation; (r) law enforcement officers shall have recourse to civil actions for damages suffered or for abridgement of their civil rights arising out of the performance of official duties; (5) financial disclosures shall not be required unless obtained under legal procedures or there is evidence of a conflict of interests; (6) notice of and reasons for all disciplinary action is required; and (7) no officer shall be disciplined or discriminated against in any way by reason of his exercise of these rights. Establishes in each State and unit of local government a law enforcement officers grievance commission composed of an equal number of governmental representatives, law enforcement officers, and members of the general public which shall have the authority to receive, investigate, and determine complaints and grievances arising from claimed infringement of rights of any law enforcement officer. Allows employee organizations to act on the officer's behalf, at his request, regarding any complaint before the commission. Permits certified employee organizations to initiate actions on behalf of their members. Provides that, in addition to this grievance procedure, law enforcement officers may institute a civil action for redress of the grievances.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1973
Authorizes the Commissioner of Education to make grants to assist elementary and secondary schools to carry on programs to teach moral and ethical princples. Authorizes to be appropriated $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1972, and for each of the two succeeding years, to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1973
Prohibits the inspection of income tax records by the Department of Agriculture. Allows limited information from such records concerning farming operations to be furnished to the Department. (Adds 26 U.S.C. 36103(g))
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1973
Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to purchase from one or more life insurance companies a policy or policies of mortgage protection life insurance on a group basis for veterans unable to obtain commercial life insurance at a substandard rate because of a service-connected disability. Sets forth the maximum amount of insurance under a policy provided under this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to deduct insurance premiums from any compensation or other cash benefits payable to veterans by the Veterans' Administration, and to pay such premiums to the insurers. Provides that the United States shall bear all of the cost of the insurance provided under this Act, except the amount of premium rates. States that any amount of insurance in force under this Act on the date of death of an insured veteran shall be paid only to the holder of the mortgage loan on the veteran's home as a credit toward loan indebtedness. Requires each policy purchased under this Act to provide for the following: (1) reinsurance with other insurers which meet the Administrator's criteria; (2) that the Administrator may discontinue a whole policy, or exclude from coverage loans made after a date fixed by him; (3) issuance to each insured veteran of a certificate setting forth the benefits to which he is entitled; (4) any other provisions necessary to carry out this Act; and (5) an annual accounting to the Administrator of the amount of premiums paid, the total of all mortality and other claim charges incurred, and the amount of the insurer's expenses and risk charges. States that insurance under this Act shall terminate upon whichever of the following events first occurs: (1) satisfaction of the veteran's indebtedness under the loan upon which the insurance is based; (2) the veteran's 70th birthday; (3) termination of the veteran's ownership of the property securing the loan; (4) discontinuance of payment of premiums by the veteran; or (5) discontinuance of the entire contract or agreement. (Adds 38 U.S.C. 791-95)
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1973
Provides that foreign currencies owned by the United States may be used to pay foreign import duties on American exports under the Foreign Assistance Act. Sets forth the required provisions of any agreement entered into between the United States and a foreign country under this Act. (Amends 22 U.S.C. 2362)
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1973
Provides, under the Internal Revenue Code, a depreciation deduction with respect to any certified byproduct or waste energy conversion facility. Provides that any capital improvements made after such property is placed in service shall be treated as separate property.
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1973
Establishes the American Revolution Bicentennial Administration; an American Revolutionary Bicentennial Advisory Council; a Federal Agency Bicentennial Organization; and the American Revolution Bicentennial Board. Sets forth the duties and functions of these bodies. Provides that the Council, Board, Federal Organization, and the Administration shall cease on and after December 31, 1976. Authorizes appropriations for such bodies. Establishes the Joint Committee on the American Revolution Bicentennial. Provides that the Committee shall make a continuing study of the activities of the American Revolution Bicentennial Administration. Requires periodic reports by the Committee.
United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1973
National Catastrophic Illness Protection Act - PART A: General Provisions - Sets forth the findings of the Congress that there are still many individuals who cannot secure or cannot afford adequate health insurance protection and that very little insurance protection is available to help meet the costs of a catastrophic illness or disease. Establishes as the policy of Congress the need for a National Catastrophic Illness Insurance program to encourage State and private insurers in the development of policies which will meet the problems set forth in the statement of findings. PART B: Establishment of Program; State Plans - Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare to establish and carry out a National Catastrophic Illness Insurance Program. Provides that the program shall involve the creation of State-wide plans providing extended health insurance , and that the Federal Government will reinsure insurers and pools of insurers who offer such insurance. Requires all plans to include: (1) that extended health insurance be available to all eligible individuals, and at a cost which is reasonable, subject only to deductibles authorized in this Act; (2) that where an insurer does not agree to write a policy of extended insurance, or does so under various limiting conditions, the State authority is notified and provides that the policy would then be placed with a pool or otherwise assigned to insurers by the "all-industry placement facility" ; (3) that data be compiled and studied in connection with the operation of the State-wide plan; (4) that certain reports be submitted to the State insurance authority by individual insurers; (5) that any cancellation of a policy provide for reasonable notice to permit coverage under a new policy to be written under the plan; and (6) that public information about the plan be readily distributed. Sets premium rates on the basis of a study of the risks in question and actuarial principals, such rates to be promulgated by the Secretary. Provides that, before payments are made under an extended insurance policy, a deductible must be satisfied through an equal amount of medical expenses paid or incurred by such individual. Provides that the amount of such deductible is determined by relating the extent of medical expenses to adjusted income and is equal to one-half of the amount by which a person's or family's adjusted income exceeds $1,000 but does not exceed $2,000; plus all of the amount by which such adjusted income exceeds $2,000. Provides that statements pledging participation and cooperation with the State insurance authority would be required of insurers seeking reinsurance under the program. Provides that no insurer shall direct any agent or broker not to solicit business through such a plan, nor penalize agents or brokers in any manner for submitting applications under the plan. Provides that the State plan shall be evaluated from time to time in accordance with criteria established by the Secretary. PART C: Reinsurance Coverage - Provides that the Secretary is authorized to reinsure against the losses which might be incurred under extended health insurance policies. Authorizes the Secretary to make agreements with insurers and pools for reinsurance in consideration of payments of reinsurance premiums deposited in the National Catastrophic Illness Insurance Fund in excess of the estimated amount of losses under such policies. Provides a detailed procedure for implementation of the reinsurance program in a State within specified time requirements, taking into account certain State and local factors which might affect such implementation. Provides that the Government may recover in the courts any unpaid premiums lawfully payable to the Government by an insurer under provisions of a 5-year statute of limitations. PART D: Government Program with Industry Assistance - Authorizes, after determination that a State-wide program cannot be carried out, or that the objective of the program would be materially assisted by the Federal Government's assumption of the plan, arrangements for operation by the Government to carry out the objectives of the program. PART E: Provisions of General Applicability - Provides procedures for judicial review of disallowances for claims for losses under the reinsurance program whether State-wide or operated by the Federal Government. Authorizes the Government to enter into contracts and other arrangements for claims review, and receiving and disbursing funds for making payments. Provides for the creation of a National Catastrophic Illness Insurance Fund for purposes of receiving premiums for reinsurance. Provides that the Secretary may make periodic payments to insurers and pools in recognition of reduction in premium rates below estimated risks. Authorizes the Secretary of HEW to exercise certain powers vested in the Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development under the Housing Act of 1950, in addition to powers provided in this proposal. Provides that the Secretary may, on a reimbursable basis, utilize the services of other Government agencies. Authorizes necessary payment adjustments in connection with the program.
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1973
Bill of Rights for the Mentally Retarded - States that the purpose of this Act is to establish standards which assure the humane care, treatment, habilitation, and protection of the mentally retarded in residential facilities, and to improve the system for the provision of services to the mentally retarded through the encouragement of and support for the planning and development of strategies to implement such standards, minimize inappropriate admissions to residential facilities and stimulate the development of regional and community programs integrating such residential facilities which conform to such standards. Provides for a new title to the Public Health Service Act: Title XI: Support of Residential Facilities for the Mentally Retarded - Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to States to aid them with the cost of bringing existing residential facilities into compliance with the standards established under this Act, and to improve existing residential facilities for the mentally retarded. Authorizes to be appropriated $30,000,000 ($15,000,000 for each program) for fiscal year 1973, and for each of the next two succeeding fiscal years, for such grants. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to enable the Secretary to make grants to States for the purpose of assisting States in meeting the expenses for bringing publicly operated facilities and publicly assisted facilities into conformity with the standards established by this Act. Stipulates that any State desiring to receive such a grant shall submit a plan to the Secretary setting forth a schedule for compliance with such standards. Provides that the total of the grants with respect to any such project bringing facilities into conformity with the standards imposed by this Act may not exceed 75 percent of the necessary cost thereof as determined by the Secretary. Requires, within five years after the date of enactment of this Act, that no residential facility for the mentally retarded shall be eligible to receive payments either directly or indirectly under any Federal law, unless such facility meets the standards promulgated under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to any public or private non-profit agency, organization or institution to meet the costs of development, improvement, extension, or expansion of community resources and community living situations for the mentally retarded other than live-in-residential facilities for the mentally retarded. Establishes a National Advisory Council on Standards for Residential Facilities for the Mentally Retarded to: (1) advise the Secretary with respect to any regulations promulgated or proposed in the implementation of the standards established under this Act; (2) study and evaluate such standards authorized by this Act; and (3) recommend to the Secretary any changes, revisions, modifications, or improvements in the standards established under this Act. Provides that the ultimate aim of the residential facility shall be to foster those behaviors that maximize the human qualities of the resident, increase the complexity of his behavior, and enhance his ability to cope with his environment. Requires such facilities to be located within, and conveniently accessible to, the population served, so as to have access to necessary generic community services. Provides that the facility and the surrounding community should be encouraged to share their services and resources on a reciprocal basis. Provides that residents of the facility should be integrated to the greatest possible extent with the general population. Provides that the facility shall have a written outline of the philosophy, objectives, and goals it is striving to achieve. Requires such outline to be available for distribution to staff, consumer representatives, and the interested public. Provides that the governing body of the facility shall exercise general direction and shall establish policies concerning the operation of the individuals served. Provides that the administration of the facility shall provide for effective staff and resident participation and communication. Requires the facility to designate a percentage of its operating budget for self-renewal purposes. Provides that the facility shall have a description of services for residents that is available to the public. Provides that the facility shall provide for meaningful and extensive consumer-representative and public participation. Provides that a public education and information program should be established that utilizes all communication media, and all service, religious and civil groups, to develop attitudes of understanding and acceptance of mentally retarded persons in all aspects of community living. Provides that admission and release procedures shall: (1) encourage voluntary admission; (2) give equal priority to persons of comparable need; (3) facilitate emergency, partial, and short-term residential care; and (4) utilize the maximum feasible amount of voluntariness in each individual case. Authorizes the residential facility to admit only residents who have had a comprehensive evaluation. Provides that all admissions to the residential facility shall be considered temporary. Provides that there shall be a regular, at least annual, joint review of the status of each resident by all relevant personnel. Provides that at the time of permanent release or transfer there shall be recorded a summary of findings, progress, and plans for protective supervision and other followup services in the resident's new environment. Provides that the performance of each employee of the facility shall be evaluated at least annually. Provides that staffing shall be sufficient so that the facility is not dependent upon the use of residents or volunteers for productive services. Provides that food services shall recognize and provide for the physiological, emotional, and cultural needs of each resident, through provision of a planned, nutritionally adequate diet. Provides that each resident shall have an adequate allowance of neat, clean, fashionable, and seasonable clothing. Provides that residents shall be trained to exercise maximum independence in health, hygiene, and grooming practices. Provides that living unit components or groupings shall be small enough to insure the development of meaningful interpersonal relationships among residents and between residents and staff. Requires dental services to be provided all residents in order to maximize their general health by maintaining an optimal level of daily oral health, through preventive measures and correcting existing oral diseases. Provides that educational services, defined as deliberate attempts to facilitate the intellectual, sensorimotor, and affective development of the individual, shall be available to all residents, regardless of chronological age, degree of retardation, or accompanying disabilities or handicaps. Provides that food and nutrition services shall be provided in order to: (1) insure optimal nutritional status of each resident, thereby enhancing his physical, emotional, and social well-being; and (2) provide a nutritionally adequate diet, in a form consistent with developmental level, to meet the dietary needs of each resident. Makes library services, which include the location, acquisition, organization, utilization, retrieval, and delivery of materials in a variety of media, available to the facility, in order to support and strengthen its total habilitation program by providing complete and integrated multimedia information services to both staff and residents. Provides that medical services shall be provided in order to: (1) achieve and maintain an optimal level of general health for each resident; (2) maximize normal function and prevent disability; and (3) facilitate the optimal development of each resident. Provides that residents shall be provided with nursing services, in accordance with their needs, in order to: (1) develop and maintain an environment that will meet their total health needs; (2) foster optimal health; (3) encourage maximum self-care and independence; and (4) provide skilled nursing care. Provides that, where appropriate to the facility, there shall be a pharmacy and therapeutics committee, that includes one or more pharmacists, to develop policy on drug usage in the facility, and to develop and maintain a current formulary. Provides that physical and occupational therapy services shall be provided in order to: (1) prevent abnormal development and further disability; (2) facilitate the optimal development of each resident; and (3) enable the resident to be a contributing and participating member of the community in which he resides. Requires psychological services be provided in order to facilitate, through the application of psychological principles, techniques, and skills, the optimal development of each resident. Provides that recreation services should provide each resident with a program of activities that: (1) promotes physical and mental health; (2) promotes optimal sensorimotor, cognitive, affective, and social development; (3) encourages movement from dependent to independent and interdependent functioning; and (4) provides for the enjoyable use of leisure time. Make religious services available to residents, in accorance with their basic right to freedom of religion. Provides that all social services shall be available to all residents and their families in order to foster and facilitate: (1) maximum personal and social development of the resident; (2) positive family functioning; and (3) effective and satisfying social and community relationships. Provides that speech pathology and audiology services shall be available, in order to: (1) maximize the communications skills of all residents; and (2) provide for the evaluation, counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation of those residents with speech, hearing and/or language handicaps. Requires each facility to provide all its residents with rehabilitation services, which include the establishment, maintenance, and implementation of those programs that will ensure the optimal development or restoration of each resident physically, psychologically, socially and vocationally. Provides that volunteer services shall be provided in order to enhance opportunities for the fullest realization of the potential of each resident by: (1) increasing the amount, and improving the quality, of services and programs; and (2) facilitating positive relationships between the facility and the community which it serves. Provides that a record shall be maintained for each resident that is adequate for: (1) planning and continuous evaluating of the resident's habitation program; (2) providing a means of communication among all persons contributing to the resident's habilitation program; (3) furnishing documentary evidence of the resident's progress and of his response to his habilitation program; (4) serving as a basis for review, study, and evaluation of the overall programs provided by the facility for its residents; (5) protecting the legal rights of the residents, facility, and staff; and (6) providing data for use in research and education. Provides that the administration of the facility shall make provision for the design and conduct, or the supervision, of research that will objectively evaluate the effectiveness of program components and contribute to informed decisionmaking in the facility. Provides that the requirements of the Secretary shall be met, with specific reference to the following: (1) provision of adequate and alternate exits and doors; (2) provision of exit ramps, with nonskid surface and slope not exceeding one foot in twelve; and (3) provision for handrails on stairways. Provides that there shall be records that document strict compliance with the sanitation, health, and environmental safety codes of the State or local authorities having primary jurisdiction over the facility. Provides that adequate, modern administrative support shall be provided to efficiently meet the needs of, and contribute to, program services for residents, and to facilitate attainment of the goals and objectives of the facility. Provides that funds shall be budgeted and spent in accordance with the principles and procedures of program budgeting. Provides that there shall be written purchasing policies regarding authority and approvals for supplies, services, and equipment.
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1973
Provides for crediting service under the Civil Service Retirement Act for service by National Guard technicians on or after the effective date of the National Guard Technicians Act of 1968. (Amends 5 U.S.C. 8332(b))
United States · United States Congress · 7 March 1973
Provides, under the Internal Revenue Code, a depreciation deduction with respect to any certified byproduct or waste energy conversion facility. Provides that any capital improvements made after such property is placed in service shall be treated as separate property.
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1973
National Mobile Home and Recreational Vehicle Safety Act - Directs the Secretary of Transportation and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to establish by order appropriate nonoperational Federal mobile home and recreational vehicle safety standards. Provides that, in prescribing standards under this Act, the Secretary of Transportation and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall: (1) consider relevant available mobile home safety data; (2) consult with such State or interstate agencies (including legislative committees) as he deems appropriate; (3) consider whether any such proposed standard is reasonable, practicable, and appropriate for the particular type of mobile home or recreational vehicle for which it is prescribed; (4) consider whether any such standard will result in a substantial increase in the retail price of mobile homes or recreational vehicles; and (5) consider the extent to which any such standard will contribute to carrying out the purpose of this title. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to issue initial Federal recreational vehicle and mobile home safety standards upon the expiration of a two hundred and seventy day period which begins on the date of enactment of this Act. Provides that the Secretary shall issue new and revised Federal recreational vehicle and mobile home safety standards under this title upon the expiration of the five hundred and forty-day period which begins on the date of enactment of this Act. Establishes both a National Mobile Home Safety Advisory Council, and a National Recreational Vehicle Safety Advisory Council, a majority of each of which shall be representatives of the general public, including representatives of State and local governments, and the remainder shall include mobile home or recreational vehicle manufacturers, dealers, representatives of insurers, and nationally recognized standards-producing organizations. Provides that the Secretary shall consult with the appropriate Advisory Council before establishing or revoking any mobile home or recreational vehicle safety standard pursuant to this title. Directs the Secretary to conduct research, testing, development and training necessary to carry out the purposes of this title. Provides that no person shall: (1) manufacture for sale, sell, offer for sale, or introduce or deliver for introduction into interstate commerce, or import into the United States, any mobile home or recreational vehicle manufactured on or after the date any applicable Federal mobile home or recreational vehicle safety standard takes effect under this title unless it is in conformity with such standard; (2) fail or refuse access to or copying of records, or fail to make reports or provide information, or fail or refuse to permit entry or inspection, as required under this Act; (3) fail to issue a certificate required by this Act, or issure a certificate to the effect that a mobile home or recreational vehicle conforms to all applicable Federal mobile home or recreational vehicle safety standards, unless such person in the exercise of due care has reason to know that such certificate is false or misleading in a material respect; or (4) fail to furnish notification of any defect as required by this Act. Provides for civil penalties for violations of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct such inspection and investigation as may be necessary to enforce Federal mobile home and recreational vehicles safety standards established under this Act. Provides that every manufacturer, distributor, and dealer of mobile homes and recreational vehicles shall maintain such records, make such reports, and provide such performance and technical data to the Secretary as may be required to carry out the purposes of this Act. Establishes a National Mobile Home and Recreational Vehicle Safety Institute in the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Provides that such Institute shall be headed by a Director appointed by the Secretary. Authorizes such Institute to : (1) develop, establish, and forward to the Secretary of Transportation recommended mobile home and recreational vehicle nonoperational safety standards; (2) conduct research, testing, development, and training as authorized by this title; (3) prepare the annual report to the Congress required by this title; and (4) perform all other functions of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under this Act. Requires the Secretary to submit to the President an annual report on the activities of the Department of Transportation under this Title. States that nothing in this Act shall prevent any State agency or court from asserting or continuing jurisdiction under State law over any aspect of mobile home or recreational vehicle safety with respect to which no standards have been established pursuant to this title. Provides that any State may assume responsibility for enforcement of any Federal standards which have been established under this Act upon approval by the Secretary under specified conditions. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States which have been delegated enforcement responsibility to assist them in identifying their needs and responsibilities in the area of safety standards enforcement or in developing enforcement plans. Provides that the Federal share of each such grant shall not exceed 90percent of the total cost. Authorizes Federal participation under the Home Owner's Loan Act of 1933 in any loan made for the purchase of a recreational vehicle or mobile home which meets or exceeds the safety standards established under this Act. Provides for Federal participation in loans made to veterans purchasing mobile homes and recreational vehicles which meet such standards.
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1973
Provides an additional income tax exemption for a taxpayer supporting a dependent who is mentally retarded. Defines the term "mentally retarded" as used in this Act. (Adds 26 U.S.C. 151(f))