United States · United States Congress · 26 September 1985
Establishes the Motor Carrier Administration in the Department of Transportation, to be headed by an Administrator appointed by the President who shall report directly to the Secretary of Transportation. Creates the position of Deputy Administrator to be appointed by the Secretary. Confers upon the Administrator duties and powers related to motor carriers and motor carrier safety under specified law. States that a decision of the Administrator implementing duties involving notice and hearing requirements is administratively final.
United States · United States Congress · 4 September 1985
Enterprise Zone Development and Employment Act of 1985 - Title I: Designation of Enterprize Zones - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for the designation of enterprise zones by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development for purposes of extending the tax incentives and regulatory flexibility measures provided by this Act. Provides that State and local governments shall nominate areas for such designation. Limits the designation of enterprise zones to 100 nominated areas, by the later of a 24 month period or July 1, 1985 (one-fourth of which must be in rural areas). Limits the period during which such deisgnation shall remain in effect. Provides that the Secretary may designate such zones only if: (1) the area is within the jurisdiction of the local government; (2) the boundary of the area is continuous; (3) the area has a population of at least 4,000 if any portion thereof is located within a standard metropolitan statistical area (with a population of at least 50,000) or 1,500 otherwise, or is within an Indian reservation; and (4) the area meets specified unemployment and poverty requirements. Requires nominating local governments, as a condition of the Secretary's designation, to agree in writing to follow a course of action which may include reducing tax rates, improving local services, simplifying or streamlining regulation of business, receiving commitments of private entities to assist employees and residents of the area, permitting State and local income tax deductions for fees for services performed by a nongovernmental entity formerly performed by a governmental entity, giving special preference to contractors owned and operated by members of a minority, and giving of surplus land in the enterprise zone to neighborhood organizations agreeing to operate a business on the land. Describes areas to which preference shall be given in deciding to designate enterprise zones. Requires the Secretary to prepare and submit to the Congress every four years a report on the effects of such enterprise zones' designation. Requires that any property tax reduction effected by a local government under the terms of this Act be disregarded for purposes of determining the eligibility of a State or local government for Federal assistance or benefits. States that designation of an enterprise zone shall not give displaced persons from such an area any rights or benefits under the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970. Treats any area designated as an enterprise zone as a labor surplus area under Federal law. Title II: Federal Income Tax Incentives - Subtitle A: Credits for Employers and Employees - Allows employers located in enterprise zones a nonrefundable income tax credit for increased employment expenditures and employment of the disadvantaged. Allows a three-year carryback and a 15-year carryover of such credit. Sets the amount of such credit at ten percent of the increase in payroll (taking into account a maximum of $17,500 in wages per year per employee) plus 50 percent of the wages paid to certain disadvantaged workers for the first three years of the enterprise zone designation. Phases out such economically disadvantaged credit. Disallows a deduction for the portion of the wages or salaries taken into account for such credit. Requires that where there is an early termination of employment by an employer in the case of qualified economically disadvantaged individuals, the tax for that taxable year in which the termination occurred must be increased by the tax credits allowed for such employees. Allows employees located in enterprise zones a nonrefundable income tax credit equal to five percent of qualified wages earned per year (taking into account a maximum of $10,500 in wages per year). Phases out such credit. Subtitle B: Credits for Investment in Tangible Property in Enterprise Zones - Allows businesses an additional investment tax credit for investments made in certain enterprise zone construction property located in enterprise zones. Limits such credit to ten percent for new enterprise zone construction property, including rental property. Requires that the property subject to such credit be located in an enterprise zone, be predominantly used in the zone, be either constructed, reconstructed, renovated, etc. during the period of zone designation or acquired during such period, and not be acquired from relatives or related corporations. Requires the recapture of such credit upon the early disposition of the property. Provides for a phase-out of the enterprise zone tax credit as the enterprise zone ends. Provides for an adjustment to the basis of the enterprise zone construction property to reflect the enterprise zone tax credit. Subtitle C: Nonrecognition of Qualified Enterprise Zone Capital Gain Where Acquisition of Enterprise Zone Business Property - Provides for the nonrecognition of capital gain on the sale of property where within the one-year period beginning on the date of such sale qualified replacement property is acquired by the taxpayer, to the extent the gain from the sale does not exceed the cost of the replacement property. Defines "qualified replacement property" as any personal property used predominantly in an enterprise zone in the active conduct of a trade or business within the enterprise zone, any real property located in the enterprise zone used in the active conduct of a trade or business, or any corporation, partnership, or other entity if, for the three most recent taxable years of such entity ending before the date of the purchase of such interest, such entity was a qualified business. Sets forth special rules for the operation of this provision. Requires the basis of the replacement property to be reduced by an amount equal to the amount of gain not recognized on the sale of such other property. Extends the period for the statute of limitations relating to the assessment of tax with respect to the sale of property involving the nonrecognition provisions. Provides that the holding period for the qualified replacement property shall include the period for which the property sold or exchanged had been held as of the date of the sale or exchange. Subtitle D: Deduction for Purchase of Enterprise Stock - Allows a taxpayer to deduct the aggregate amount paid during the taxable year for the purchase of enterprise stock on the original issue of such stock by a qualified issuer. Limits the maximum amount of such deduction to $100,000 a year. Requires that the $100,000 limit must be allocated among the members of a controlled group. Requires the pro rata allocation of the $100,000 limit among the stock purchased where the aggregate amount of stock purchased exceeds the $100,000 limitation. Requires that the gain from the disposition of the stock shall be treated as ordinary income. Provides a formula for calculating such gain. Provides that interest is charged on the disposition of such stock if such disposition occurs before the end of the three-year period beginning on the date the stock was purchased. Provides that where an issuer ceases to be a qualified issuer of enterprise stock before the close of the fifth taxable year after the date the stock was issued, the taxpayer must include in income the amount of the deduction allowed with respect to such stock plus interest on the aggregate decrease in tax of the taxpayer resulting from the deduction allowed with respect to such stock. Sets forth special rules with respect to such stock. Requires the basis of such stock to be reduced by the amount of the deduction allowed with respect to such stock. Subtitle E: Rules Relating to Industrial Development Bonds - Provides that limitations on the cost recovery deductions for property financed with tax-exempt industrial development bonds shall not apply to enterprise zone property. Provides that the termination of the small issue exemption shall not apply to industrial development bonds the proceeds of which are used to finance facilities in such enterprise zones. Subtitle F: Ordinary Loss Deduction for Securities of Enterprise Zone Business Which Become Worthless - Permits an ordinary loss deduction for securities of enterprise zone businesses which become worthless during the taxable year. Subtitle G: Increase in Research Credit for Research Conducted in Enterprise Zones - Increases the tax credit for increasing research activities to 37 and one-half percent. (currently, 25 percent for research conducted in enterprise zones). Subtitle H: Sense of the Congress with Respect to Tax Simplification - Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Internal Revenue Service should simplify the administration and enforcement of any provision of the Internal Revenue Code affected by this Act. Subtitle I: Regulations - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to issue regulations to carry out the provisions of this Act not later than six months after the date of enactment. Title III: Regulatory Flexibility - Revises the definition of "small entity" for purposes of the analysis of regulatory functions to include qualified businesses (as defined in Title II of this Act) and governments and nonprofit enterprises operating within enterprise zones. Authorizes Federal agencies, upon request by a designating government, to waive or modify rules and regulations which pertain to the carrying out of projects or activities within an enterprise zone. Requires agencies to approve such request if the resulting benefits of job creation, community development, or economic revitalization outweigh the public interest in continuation of the rule unchanged. Disallows waiver or modification of a rule that would directly violate a statutory requirement (including the Davis-Bacon Act and Fair Labor Standards Act) or which would present a danger to the public health and safety. Provides that such waivers or modifications of a rule shall remain in effect as long as the zone designations. Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to promote the coordination of all enterprise zone programs and consolidate all periodic reports required under such programs into one summary report. Title IV: Establishment of Foreign-Trade Zones in Enterprise Zones - Requires the Foreign-Trade Board to consider on a priority basis and expedite the processing of applications for the establishment of foreign-trade zones within enterprise zones. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to give priority to, and expedite applications for, the establishment of ports of entry necessary to establish such zones. States that, to the maximum extent practicable, foreign-trade zones should be established within enterprise zones.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1985
Proclaims October 23, 1985, as A Time of Remembrance for all victims of terrorism. Urges Americans to wear a purple ribbon in honor of the sacrifices made in pursuit of peace and freedom. Authorizes and requests the President to call upon U.S. departments, agencies, and other interested parties to fly U.S. flags at half staff.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1985
Surface Transportation and Uniform Relocation Assistance Act of 1985 - Title I: Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1985 - Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1985 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) apportion for FY 1987 and 1988 the sums authorized to be appropriated for such years for expenditure on the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways; (2) transmit to the Congress within ten days after January 2, 1989, a revised cost estimate for completing the Interstate System; (3) use the Federal share of congressionally approved estimates in making apportionments for FY 1991; and (4) apportion for FY 1986 and 1987 certain sums for substitute highway and urban mass transit projects. Reduces the authorized appropriations per fiscal year for highway assistance programs for FY 1986 through 1990. States that 25 percent of substitute highway project funds for FY 1987 through 1990 shall be distributed at the Secretary's discretion. Directs the Secretary to use the Federal share of certain congressionally approved substitute highway cost estimates in making apportionments for FY 1987 through 1990. Sets distribution guidelines for the apportionment of substitute transit funds for FY 1987 through 1990. Amends the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 to authorize appropriations for the Interstate System through FY 1991. Sets a ceiling, with specified exceptions, for the total of all obligations for Federal-Aid Highways and highway safety construction programs for FY 1986 through 1990. Sets guidelines for redistribution by the Secretary of unused obligational authority among the States. Authorizes appropriations out of the Highway Trust Fund for FY 1986 through 1990 for: (1) the Federal-aid primary system in rural areas; (2) the Federal-aid secondary system in rural areas; (3) the Federal-aid urban system; (4) Indian reservation roads; (5) forest highways; (6) public lands highways; and (7) parkways and park highways. Requires that a minimum of ten percent of the authorized appropriations be expended with small businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. Revises the apportionment ratios for resurfacing, restoring, rehabilitating, and reconstructing the Interstate System. Extends the authorization formula for Federal-aid primary systems from FY 1986 to 1990. Prohibits Federal approval of State projects on any Federal-aid system unless: (1) the State agrees to provide displaced owners with relocation assistance equal to Federal relocation assistance; (2) the displacement is authorized by State law and is in accordance with the terms of the rental agreement; and (3) the displacement is directly necessitated by such project. Requires contracts relating to State highway department construction projects upon the Federal-aid system to include a standard clause concerning site conditions which differ from those specified in the contract. Permits the use of convict labor and convict-produced materials in highway construction on Federal-aid systems: (1) if such convicts are on supervised release; or (2) if the materials are produced by convicts in a qualified prison facility, but the amount of materials produced in any 12-month period does not exceed the amount previously produced in such facility during the 12-month period ending July 1, 1985. Provides that apportioned funds not obligated within the authorized fiscal year for the Interstate System within a State shall be made available by the Secretary according to certain priorities (including high cost projects for construction of high occupancy vehicle lanes and other lanes on any highway in Los Angeles County, California, designated as part of the Interstate System). Authorizes the Secretary to make discretionary funds available to California for construction of high occupancy vehicle lanes, even if such State does not meet certain eligibility criteria. Makes funds available to Puerto Rico for construction of access and development roads on a Federal-aid system. Makes the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands eligible for emergency relief funding. Exempts tank trucks and ocean transport containers from vehicle weight and length limitations until September 1, 1988. Allows Federal participation in a State toll road which is part of the Interstate System even though the State highway department and the toll road authority have incurred an indebtedness to finance certain ineligible construction expenses for a feature recommended by a final environmental impact statement. Authorizes appropriations out of the Highway Trust Fund for FY 1986 through 1990 for highway beautification. Extends from March 9, 1984, to July 1, 1985, the deadline by which States may use certain Federal-aid highway funds for additional route designations on the Interstate System. Exempts a certain route designation in Weirton, West Virginia, from such deadline. Increases the amounts available for FY 1986 through 1990 for the discretionary bridge program. Authorizes the Secretary to approve, upon application by Arkansas, Federal assistance for construction of a highway bridge to replace ferryboat service. Limits the Federal share of such construction cost to 80 percent. Limits the amount of certain Interstate highway funds which the States may expend for purposes of transportation planning. Authorizes appropriations out of the Highway Trust Fund for Federal-aid highway purposes for FY 1986 through 1990. Directs the Secretary to establish national bridge safety inspection standards for all highway bridges. Prescribes guidelines for such standards. Directs the Secretary to establish a training program for bridge inspectors. Directs the Secretary to: (1) implement a strategic highway research program; and (2) set aside specified funds for FY 1987 through 1991 to implement such program. Changes Buy American provisions to increase from 50 percent to 85 percent the domestic content requirements for certain manufacturers of buses and other rolling stock. Makes eligible for Federal-aid highway funds the construction costs of a certain alternative interstate route in Massachusetts which provides access to an international airport. Authorizes Arkansas to use apportioned funds for the planning, design, and construction of a specified highway. Limits the amount of apportioned funds available for FY 1987 through 1989 for rehabilitation of elevated toll roads in Chicago, Illinois. Prohibits the obligation of Federal funds for: (1) route construction on the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways located mainly in a landfill placed in a river after May 1, 1985; and (2) substitute highway or transit projects which include landfill construction (exempts landfills necessary to preserve existing waterfront character and facilities). Sets guidelines for the obligation of Federal funds for alternative interstate projects. Makes certain interstate lane construction projects eligible for certain Federal-aid highway funds. Authorizes the Secretary to approve (upon the joint request of the Governor of California and the local governments concerned) a substitute transit construction project for a fixed guideway system in lieu of eligible interstate lane construction if the substitute project is in or adjacent to the proposed right-of-way for such lanes. Directs the Secretary to approve certain transfer concept plan modifications requested by the Governors of Maryland and Connecticut which include substitute highway and mass transit projects. Prescribes criteria for such approval. Exempts a certain privately-owned facility located on specified Interstate routes in Michigan from Federal prohibitions against commercial establishments on commercial rights-of-way of the Interstate System. Declares that the fair market value of any lands donated to California for the right-of-way for relocation and construction of a certain highway in Orange County shall be credited to the non-Federal share of such project costs. Authorizes the Secretary to approve construction of a certain Interstate route section in Hawaii. Releases the State of Maryland from certain road conveyance requirements under the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1970. Authorizes appropriations for railroad-highway crossing demonstration projects for FY 1986 through 1990. Authorizes appropriations out of the Highway Trust Fund for FY 1986 for rights-of-way acquisition and railroad construction costs in the vicinity of Carbondale, Illinois. Requires the Secretary to: (1) make a grant to each State within which the Consolidated Rail Corporation operates a rail vehicle safety demonstration program over railroad-highway crossings; and (2) report to the Congress regarding such program's effectiveness in improving railroad-highway crossing safety. Authorizes appropriations for such programs for FY 1986 through 1990. Directs the Secretary to complete a gap on the Federal-aid primary system in an urban area in Passaic County, New Jersey, utilizing procedures to accelerate design and construction. Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress, not later than 180 days after the completion of such project, on its results, including specified analyses. Directs the Secretary to carry out the following demonstration projects: (1) in Brick Township, New Jersey, to demonstrate methods of improving traffic operations and reducing accidents at a high-volume rotary intersection; (2) in the vicinity of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, to demonstrate methods by which a highway construction project on the Federal-aid primary system will enhance highway safety and economic development in an area of high unemployment; (3) in the vicinity of Fort Smith, Arkansas, to demonstrate the economic growth and development benefits of widening a segment of the Federal-aid urban system connecting a community college and a large commercial center, and of improving traffic signalization on such segment; (4) in the vicinity of Moorhead, Minnesota, to demonstrate the economic and safety benefits of constructing a grade separation between a railroad line and a highway on the Federal-aid urban system; (5) in the vicinities of Fosston and Bagley, Minnesota, to demonstrate the economic and safety benefits of reconstructing two segments of a major highway on the Federal-aid primary system; (6) in Kentucky, to demonstrate methods of improving traffic flow and safety on a State highway which connects an Interstate route in the vicinity of the City of Dry Ridge with a highway on the Federal-aid primary system in the vicinity of the City of Owentown; (7) in San Bernardino County, California, in the vicinity of the Ontario International Airport, to demonstrate methods of improving highway access to an airport which is projected to incur a substantial increase in air service; (8) in Pennsylvania, to demonstrate the state of the art delineation technology by closing a gap in a multi-lane limited access road connecting the City of Altoona to the Borough of Tyrone in Blair County; (9) in Lafayette, Louisiana, to demonstrate the benefits on traffic flow and transportation of labor and materials by construction of a highway to provide limited continuous access between an Interstate route and a highway on the Federal-aid primary system; (10) in Shreveport, Louisiana, to demonstrate methods of reducing traffic congestion in the central business district, improving access to such district, providing highway continuity, and satisfying national defense requirements by connecting two Interstate routes; (11) in Miami, Florida, to demonstrate the most cost-effective method of improving interstate motor vehicle access for passengers and cargo moving to and from the port of Miami; (12) in Arkansas and Missouri, to demonstrate methods of improving highway safety and of accelerating highway construction on specified segments on the Federal-aid primary system; (13) in the vicinity of Sanford, Florida, to demonstrate methods of reducing costs and expediting construction of an interchange by contracting with a private consultant to design and construct such project; (14) in the vicinity of San Jose and Santa Clara, California, to demonstrate a unified method of reducing traffic congestion where a Federal-aid urban highway intersects with two other of such highways on a railroad crossing; (15) in the vicinity of the C&O Canal in the District of Columbia, to improve motor vehicle access at a major traffic generator without decreasing the efficiency of a Federal-aid primary highway; (16) in the vicinity of Pardee, West Virginia, to demonstrate the improvement in motor vehicle transportation of energy resources resulting from the completion of a consolidated network of modern highway; (17) in Modesto, California, to demonstrate methods by which construction of a grade separation for a railroad crossing of a primary highway enhances urban redevelopment and the effectiveness of a planned transportation center; (18) in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to demonstrate the benefits of cooperation between the private sector and the government in relieving traffic congestion caused by a railroad crossing a Federal-aid highway through construction of a highway overpass; (19) in East Milton, Massachusetts, to demonstrate the advantages of joint development and use of air rights in the construction of a deck over a depressed portion of an Interstate route; (20) in Alabama, to demonstrate methods of accelerating the widening of a high volume segment of a primary highway necessary for rapid evacuation of individuals during emergency weather conditions; (21) in the vicinity of Wilder, Kentucky, to demonstrate the economic benefits to a port facility, industrial complex, and foreign trade zone by reconstruction of a segment of an urban highway which connects an Interstate route with a port facility; (22) in Illinois, to demonstrate the safety benefits of providing additional and improved vehicular passing opportunities on, adding truck climbing lanes to, and straightening a segment of a primary highway which carries a high volume of traffic in Jo Daviess and Stephenson Counties; (23) in Allentown, Pennsylvania, to demonstrate methods of accelerating construction to eliminate a major rail-highway crossing at grade, reducing traffic delays for rail and vehicular traffic, and minimizing the impact on the surrounding urban environment; (24) in Riverside, California, to demonstrate methods of improving safety on a specified highway; (25) in Buffalo, New York, to demonstrate methods of facilitating redevelopment of a waterfront area by construction of a connector off a primary highway; (26) in Cleveland, Ohio, to demonstrate the relationship between infrastructure improvement and economic vitality; (27) in Lauderdale and Colbert Counties, Alabama, to demonstrate methods of improving highway transportation and enhancing economic development through construction of a bridge to cross the Tennessee River; (28) in the vicinity of Huron, Ohio, to demonstrate methods of enhancing highway safety and economic development in an area of high unemployment through construction of a bypass segment to provide access to an amusement park; (29) in Chicago, Illinois, to demonstrate the cost savings to be obtained by converting a fixed-span bridge to a movable bridge; (30) in Harney County, Oregon, to demonstrate methods of protecting roadways against damage and destruction due to wave erosion; (31) in Wayne County, Michigan, to demonstrate the benefits of enhancing safety and improving economic vitality of a depressed area; (32) in Cook County, Illinois, to demonstrate the benefits from specified highway reconstruction; (33) in Erie County, New York, to demonstrate methods of enhancing safety and reducing traffic congestion by relocating an interstate route terminus; (34) in the vicinity of Mount Vernon, Kentucky, to demonstrate methods of improving highway safety and traffic flow and access to a national river and recreation area; (35) in Pine City, Minnesota, to demonstrate methods of improving highway safety and traffic flow by constructing an interchange between certain highways; (36) in Paso Robles, California, to demonstrate methods of improving highway safety and traffic flow and enhancing economic development through the construction of a two-lane bridge spanning the Salinas River, a highway, and a railroad line; (37) in Columbus, Ohio, to demonstrate methods of relieving traffic congestion through reconstruction of highway portions in an interstate route connecting Columbia with its airport; (38) in Suffolk County, New York, to demonstrate construction techniques to accelerate upgrading an existing highway to freeway standards with minimum traffic disruption; (39) in the vicinity of Southington, Connecticut, to demonstrate the latest construction techniques in reconstructing a segment of urban highway, and in the vicinity of Kent Center, to demonstrate methods of solving safety and flooding problems on a primary highway; (40) in Dover, New Jersey, to demonstrate traffic congestion reduction methods on an existing bridge and facilitating the redevelopment of the central business district; (41) in Los Angeles County, California, to demonstrate methods of improving vehicular circulation related to intermodal transportation or port-related traffic and alleviating congestion caused by increased port activities; (42) in the vicinity of the Greater Pittsburgh International Airport to demonstrate methods of improving economic development and airport terminal placement; (43) in Steuben County, New York, to demonstrate how the economy of an industrialized high unemployment area can be improved by completing key elements of a controlled highway which serves such area; (44) in Santa Rosa and Petaluma, California, to demonstrate how traffic congestion can be relieved by reconstructing a certain arterial which connects the two cities; (45) in the vicinity of Tampa, Florida, to demonstrate motor vehicle congestion relief measures and improve motor vehicle access between rapidly growing urban areas; (46) in Savannah, Georgia, to demonstrate how replacing an obsolete bridge with a modern highway-level structure will improve vehicular and waterborne traffic flow; (47) in New Sewickly, Pennsylvania, to demonstrate methods of accommodating increasing truck traffic and improving highway safety; (48) in the vicinity of Croyle Township, Pennsylvania, to demonstrate methods of improving public access to a flood memorial; (49) in Orange, Texas, to demonstrate how rail line consolidation will reduce motor vehicle traffic congestion and increase jobs in a high unemployment area; (50) in Baton Rouge and East Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to demonstrate traffic congestion alleviation methods; (51) in Minden, Louisiana, to demonstrate enhanced economic development by providing Minden with alternative highway access to the Interstate System; (52) in the area of Brunswick-Topsham, Maine, to demonstrate increased access to defense related facilities by the construction of a limited access highway connecting a major interstate highway corridor with a naval air station and a shipyard engaged in defense production activities; (53) in Isle of Palms, South Carolina, to demonstrate increased accessibility to a sea island by construction of a high-level fixed span bridge over a high-volume intracoastal waterway segment; (54) in Clarksville, Tennessee, to demonstrate highway safety improvement methods by providing direct access from the Fort Campbell Military Reservation; (55) between Clarinda and Shenandoah, Iowa, to demonstrate how highway rehabilitation in an economically depressed rural area will increase economic activity; (56) in the vicinity of Oceanside and Escondido, California, to demonstrate methods of reducing traffic congestion by expanding an interstate route connection; (57) in St. Charles County, Missouri, to demonstrate methods of alleviating commuter traffic congestion by construction of a bypass highway; (58) in Hammond, Indiana, to relocate railroad lines in order to eliminate railroad-highway grade crossings; (59) in Shawnee, Oklahoma, to demonstrate small community air service improvement by extending a runway over a depressed road; (60) between Concord and West Pittsburg, California, to demonstrate improved highway safety through highway modification; (61) in Georgia, to demonstrate improved highway safety by reconstructing as a six-lane controlled access freeway a certain highway segment between a specified State route and Interstate routes; (62) in Pike County, Kentucky, to demonstrate highway safety improvement in a mountainous area; (63) in Madison County, Illinois, to demonstrate the economic benefits of reconstructing a road segment serving a high-growth industrial area; and (64) in Erwin, Tennessee, to extend a certain highway on the Appalachian development system for transportation improvement purposes. Directs the Secretary to submit status reports to the Congress regarding the highway demonstration projects. Authorizes appropriations for such demonstration projects for FY 1986 through 1990. Authorizes the Secretary to implement highway projects on the Federal-aid system in Wheeling, West Virginia, at full Federal expense, upon the request of local officials. Authorizes appropriations for such projects from sums appropriated to implement a certain railroad-highway demonstration project. Amends the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1978 to direct the Secretary to implement specified state-of-the-art bridge construction technology projects in Ohio. Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress regarding such projects. Authorizes the Secretary to prepare an environmental impact statement regarding additional highway capacity in Staten Island, New York. Authorizes appropriations. Designates a certain portion of an Oklahoma State Route which lies on the Federal-aid primary system as United States Highway 377. Designates a certain bridge crossing the Mississippi River near Le Claire, Iowa, as the Fred Schwengel Bridge. Directs the Secretary to conduct feasibility studies and report to the Congress regarding: (1) highway expenditures, revenues and relative needs; (2) highway apportionment and allocation formulas; (3) enforcement of vehicle weight limitation on bridges; (4) highway bridges which cross rail lines; (5) improvement of the Theodore Roosevelt Bridge connecting the District of Columbia and Virginia; (6) flood prevention methods on an Interstate route between Galveston and Houston, Texas; (7) constructing a highway between Aurora-Hoyt Lakes and Silver Bay, Minnesota; (8) the cost-effectiveness of upgrading a certain highway between Pennsylvania and New York State; (9) State bridge management programs; (10) establishing minimum Federal guidelines for maintenance of the Federal-aid primary, secondary and urban systems; (11) a proposed highway from Shreveport, Louisiana, to Texarkana, Fort Smith, and Fayetteville, Arkansas, and Carthage and Kansas City, Missouri; (12) a highway connecting Santa Fe, New Mexico, and the Los Alamos National Laboratory. Authorizes appropriations. Requires the Secretary to make a grant to the California Department of Transportation to determine the feasibility of using a highway electrification system as an energy source for highway vehicles. Authorizes appropriations. Title II: Highway Safety Act of 1985 - Highway Safety Act of 1985 - Authorizes appropriations out of the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) for FY 1986-1990 for the following programs: (1) bridge replacement and rehabilitation; (2) hazard elimination; (3) highway safety research and development under the auspices of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Federal Highway Administration. Authorizes appropriations for highway safety programs for: (1) FY 1988 through 1990 implemented by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA); and (2) FY 1987-1990 implemented by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Amends the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982 to authorize appropriations for FY 1987 for highway safety programs implemented by the NHTSA. Sets forth minimum amount of authorized funds which must be obligated for enforcement of the national speed limit and for safety belt programs. Sets an obligation ceiling for highway safety programs for FY 1986 through 1990. Amends the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982 to authorize appropriations for FY 1984 through 1990 to make grants to the States for enforcement of commercial motor vehicle safety standards. Sets forth a weighted compliance formula to be used by the Secretary in determining a State's apportionment of Federal-aid highway funds based upon State enforcement of the national speed limit. Amends the penalty for a State's non-compliance with the national minimum drinking age laws to require the Secretary to withhold certain apportioned amounts from such State on the first of each fiscal year after the second fiscal year beginning after September 30, 1985, in which purchase or public possession of alcoholic beverages by a person under 21 years of age is lawful. Sets forth guidelines under which withheld funds shall be available subject to State compliance. Revises the State eligibility criteria under which the States may receive alcohol traffic safety program grants. Declares that State reports regarding certain hazard elimination programs and rail-highway crossings are inadmissible evidence in any action for damages arising out of matters referred to in such reports. Revises the definition of "highway safety improvement project" to include a project which installs emergency motorist-aid call boxes. Amends the Highway Safety Act of 1973 to authorize appropriations for FY 1985 through 1990. Amends the National Driver Register Act of 1982 to extend the deadline by which the Secretary is required to: (1) promulgate final rules regarding establishment of the National Driver Register; and (2) begin a pilot test program for an electronic information retrieval system regarding individual motor vehicle driving records; and (3) report to the Congress regarding the Register. Amends the Highway Safety Act of 1978 to prohibit the obligation of certain authorized funds for any education or information program conducted in connection with the implementation of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 208. Directs the Secretary to conduct a comprehensive investigation of railroad-highway crossing needs (in consultation with specified groups) and to report to the Congress regarding such investigation. Directs the Secretary to: (1) arrange with the National Academy of Sciences to conduct a study of problems facing older drivers; and (2) request the Academy to report to the Secretary and the Congress regarding such study. Title III: Federal Mass Transportation Act of 1985 - Federal Mass Transportation Act of 1985 - Amends the Urban Mass Transportation Act of 1964 to replace the letters of intent procedure with provisions which authorize the Secretary to enter into multi-year contracts for the construction of mass transportation facilities. Requires the Secretary, starting January 1986, to annually submit to the appropriate congressional committees: (1) a proposal on the total amount of funding needed to finance grants and loans for bus and bus-related activities, rail modernization, and the construction and extension of fixed guideway systems; and (2) a proposal on the allocation of such funds to finance grants and loans for rail modernization and fixed guideway construction and extension projects. Makes such proposals effective upon approval by law. Sets forth the circumstances under which the Secretary is authorized to approve advance construction for certain mass transportation projects. Prohibits the issuance of funds for new fixed guideway systems or extensions unless such projects are determined to be: (1) based on the results of alternatives analysis and preliminary engineering; (2) cost-effective; and (3) supported by local financial commitment. States that any public body which receives Federal financial assistance for mass transportation may not displace a structure from the mass transportation system property for which such public body receives rent from a private owner unless: (1) such displacement is necessary; (2) the owner receives relocation assistance in a certain amount; or (3) such displacement is authorized by State statute and is in accordance with the terms of the rental agreement. Sets a limit upon the amount of funds which the Secretary may use to enter into a construction management oversight contract. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1982 through 1990 for public transportation projects substituted for withdrawn Interstate segments. Authorizes certain funds apportioned for expenditure in an urbanized area with a population of less than 200,000 to be expended in an urbanized area with a population of more than 200,000. Permits certain grant recipients to continue the preferential fare collection system for elderly and handicapped persons in lieu of the collection of half-fares for such persons. Permits block grants to be made to implement an urban mass transportation program of projects in whole or in part. Excludes certain advertising and concession revenues from consideration as a revenue source for purposes of the Federal block grant program for urban mass transportation. Requires Federal block grant recipients to submit an annual report to the Secretary regarding revenues derived from the sale of advertising and concessions relating to the operation of a public mass transportation system. Revises the limitations placed upon the use of certain apportioned funds by small urbanized areas for operating assistance. Extends from 1984 to 1990 the authority for (block grant) recipients to transfer capital assistance for operating assistance. Limits the use of discretionary amounts resulting from such transfer to the replacement, rehabilitation, and purchase of buses and related equipment and the construction of bus-related facilities. Prohibits certain grant recipients after FY 1985 from making such transfers except for emergency repairs or pursuant to predated authority. Sets a deadline by which funds appropriated for the block grant program must be apportioned. Directs the Secretary to make grants to nonprofit institutions of higher learning to establish and operate one regional transportation center in each of the ten Federal regions. Sets forth criteria to be met by grant recipients. Establishes in the Department of Transportation a national advisory council to: (1) coordinate the research and training to be carried out by grant recipients; (2) disseminate the results of such research; (3) act as a clearinghouse between such centers and the transportation industry; and (4) review and evaluate programs carried out by such centers. Authorizes appropriations for such centers for FY 1986 through 1990. Makes eligible for construction assistance: (1) any bus remanufacturing project which extends the economic life of a bus eight years or more; and (2) any project for the overhaul of rolling stock, whether or not such overhaul increases the useful life of the rolling stock. Lowers the expense threshold for associated capital maintenance items which are eligible for certain mass transportation block grants. Makes the Federal grant for any mass transportation construction project 80 percent of the net project cost. Directs the Secretary to issue regulations requiring a prebid and postdelivery audit regarding any grant under this Act for the purchase of buses. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1986 through 1990 for block grants and for a formula grant program for areas other than urbanized areas. Authorizes appropriations out of the Mass Transit Account of the Highway Trust Fund for FY 1986 through 1990 for specified activities, and authorizes appropriations for certain projects for FY 1985 through 1990. Requires the Secretary to: (1) enter into a multi-year contract with the Southern California Rapid Transit District to complete a specified segment of a certain Los Angeles Metro Rail Project; and (2) make a grant to an eligible local public body to conduct an electric trolley bus line feasibility study using a certain bus technology being developed in California. Directs the Secretary to develop a comprehensive mass transportation plan for the Virgin Islands and report to the Congress on it within one year of enactment of this Act. Prescribes guidelines under which the Interstate Commerce Commission shall issue bus carrier certificates to recipients of governmental assistance. Subjects the issuance of intrastate passenger transportation certificates to the condition that any intrastate transportation service be provided only as part of a regularly scheduled interstate transportation service on the route. Title IV: Uniform Relocation Act Amendments of 1985 - Amends the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 to revise various definitions for purposes of such Act. Permits a Federal agency to discharge its responsibilities by accepting the certification by a State agency that it will implement State law to carry out the Federal relocation assistance program, provided that the lead agency determines that such State law will accomplish the purpose and effect of the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970. Requires the head of such agency, prior to accepting certification, to provide interested parties with an opportunity for public review and comment, and to consult with interested local governments. Directs the head of the lead agency to monitor and report biennially to the Congress on State agency implementation of such certification. Permits an agency to withdraw acceptance of a certification after providing the State government with notice. Permits a Federal agency to withhold approval of any grant, contract, or cooperative agreement with any displacing agency found to have failed to comply with certification or State law. Requires the payment to displaced persons of actual expenses, not exceeding $10,000, necessary to reestablish a displaced small business, nonprofit organization, or displaced farm at its new site. Removes the limitation on the moving expense allowance and the fixed amount of the dislocation allowance that a person displaced from a dwelling may elect to receive in lieu of itemized expenses. Declares that such allowances shall be determined according to a schedule established by the head of a lead agency. Increases the maximum and decreases the minimum limitations on the payment a person displaced from a business or farm operation may elect to receive in lieu of itemized deductions. Declares that such amount shall be determined according to criteria established by the lead agency. (Currently, such amount is based on the annual earnings of the farm or business.) Increases the maximum amount of assistance that a displacing agency may provide to a displaced homeowner for replacement housing. Requires such assistance to include an amount necessary to: (1) meet the reasonable cost of a comparable replacement dwelling as defined in this Act; and (2) compensate the displaced person for any increased financing costs. Authorizes a displacing agency to extend the one-year period, following payment for an acquired home, during which the displaced person must purchase and occupy a replacement dwelling in order to qualify for housing replacement payments, but limits such payments to the costs of relocating such person within that one-year period. Increases the ceiling (currently $4,000) on the amount of rental housing replacement assistance provided to displaced tenants to $6,000. Permits eligible displaced tenants to apply such rental assistance toward the downpayment on a decent, safe, and sanitary replacement dwelling. Declares that displaced homeowners who meet the residency requirement for rental housing replacement assistance but not for homeowner's housing replacement assistance may qualify for rental assistance, at the discretion of the lead agency. Requires that all relocation assistance advisory programs: (1) provide information on suitable locations for displaced farming (and business) operations; and (2) assure that no person is required to move before being given a reasonable choice of comparable replacement dwellings. Provides for the designation of a single, cognizant Federal agency to establish procedures to be used by a non-Federal displacing agency to implement related activities funded by two or more Federal agencies. Authorizes advisory services to certain renters in properties acquired by a displacing agency. Directs the lead agency to require that provisions authorizing a displacing agency to use project funds to provide dwellings for displaced persons, if the project would be delayed because suitable replacement housing is not otherwise available, be used to exceed housing replacement assistance ceilings only on a case-by-case basis and for good cause. Provides that any payment a displaced person receives under State law shall replace a housing replacement or real property acquisition payment for substantially the same purpose under the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act. Requires the head of the lead agency to: (1) promulgate rules to carry out such Act; (2) coordinate relocation assistance activities with Federal and federally-financed low-income housing programs; (3) monitor the implementation of such Act; and (4) perform such other duties as necessary. Declares low-income housing assistance as income for purposes of determining eligibility for assistance under the Social Security Act or any other Federal law. Requires a State agency to pay the United States all net amounts (currently all amounts) received from the sale of surplus Federal property transferred to the agency for the purpose of providing replacement housing. Repeals the authority of any displacing agency to make loans to various organizations for planning and obtaining federally-insured mortgage financing for housing for displaced persons. Authorizes the lead agency to prescribe a procedure under which Federal agencies may acquire real property without having it appraised. Permits a displaced person to donate the real property being acquired or any of the compensation paid for such property to the acquiring agency. Sets forth effective dates of specified provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 1985
Expresses the Congress' concern about Doctor Yury Orlov and calls upon the Soviet Union to release him from exile and allow him and his wife to emigrate. Urges the President to instruct the Secretary of State to raise this issue with the Soviet Union and at specified forums.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1985
Authorizes the Architect of the Capitol to redesign and reconstruct the East Plaza of the United States Capitol in order to provide increased security and for esthetic purposes. Requires the Architect to submit plans and cost estimates for such project to specified congressional committees. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 18 July 1985
Authorizes the President, on behalf of the Congress, to present a gold medal to Aaron Copland in recognition of his contributions to American musical composition. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to provide for the sale of bronze duplicates of the medal. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 18 July 1985
Trade Emergency and Export Promotion Act - Declares that actions by the President, the International Trade Commission (ITC), the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) pursuant to this Act shall not be reviewable by any court, except for abuse of discretion. Title I: International Trade Actions and Agreements - Declares that a national emergency exists because of distortions and imbalances in trade and instability in exchange rates and that such emergency requires extraordinary measures, including action to: (1) restore the value of the dollar; and (2) either eliminate foreign unfair trade barriers or prohibit countries which employ such barriers from enjoying trade surpluses with the United States or increasing shares of world export markets. Authorizes the President to negotiate and enter into with any foreign country or entity agreements limiting the export from such country or entity, and the importation into the United States, of any article. Directs the USTR to initiate proceedings against Japan before appropriate international bodies in order to obtain authorization to take trade actions against Japan on the grounds that: (1) Japan has failed to comply with trade agreements entered into with the United States; and (2) Japan has adopted numerous domestic policies and practices that impair and violate such trade agreements and impede achievement of their objectives. Directs the USTR, with the cooperation of the Secretary of Agriculture, to initiate actions under all international trade agreements to which the United States is a party in order to take appropriate countermeasures against agricultural export subsidies provided by the European Communities and other countries which will be used to prevent: (1) injury to U.S. agricultural producers; (2) nullification or impairment of such trade agreements; and (3) serious prejudice to the United States. Authorizes the USTR to initiate actions against each foreign country (except Japan and the European Communities) or entity that was an excess worldwide trade surplus country or an excess bilateral trade surplus country for 1984 under all applicable U.S. laws and international agreements in order to: (1) enforce the rights of the United States under such international agreements; and (2) obtain the elimination of certain trade acts, policies, and practices of such countries or entities. Directs the USTR to explain in proceedings initiated under this title that the United States finds it necessary to take the actions provided in title II of this Act as interim measures pending the outcome of such proceedings in order to protect vital U.S. interests. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to develop a plan to reduce fluctuations between currencies on foreign currency exchange markets. Sets forth characteristics of such plan. Title II: Interim Domestic Trade Actions to Respond to the Trade Emergency - Subtitle A: Stand-by Duties - Directs the ITC to determine annually each major exporting country's: (1) worldwide nonpetroleum export percentage; (2) bilateral nonpetroleum export percentage; (3) worldwide nonpetroleum trade surplus; (4) bilateral nonpetroleum trade surplus; (5) worldwide trade surplus limitation; and (6) bilateral trade surplus limitation. Requires the ITC to report annually to the President on: (1) the determinations on the trade of such major exporting countries; (2) the identity of each foreign country which was an excess worldwide trade surplus country or excess bilateral trade surplus country during the preceding year; and (3) whether or not standby duties should be imposed on imports from such countries. Requires the President, within 15 days of receiving such report to determine, with respect to each country identified as an excess worldwide trade surplus country or excess bilateral trade surplus country: (1) whether such country unfairly restricts or limits the access of imports to its markets; and (2) if the President determines that such country does restrict access to its markets, whether such restriction contributes to that country's trade surplus. Requires the President, if both such determinations are positive, to impose stand-by duties on all imports from such countries. Prohibits making such determinations or imposing such duties if the U.S. trade deficit divided by the U.S. gross national product is less than one and one-half percent. Requires the President to report to the Congress, within 15 days of receiving the reports on worldwide and bilateral trade, on the determinations made with respect to imposing stand-by duties. Declares that the rate of a stand-by duty shall be 25 percent ad valorem and that such duty shall be in addition to any other duties. Provides for the implementation of such duties. Requires all revenues from such stand-by duties to be allocated to the Public Debt Reduction Account in the Treasury. Expresses the sense of the Congress that all funds in such Account be used only to reduce the Federal debt. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to report annually to the Congress on the revenue derived from such stand-by duties. Prohibits imposing stand-by duties on articles imported after April 30, 1992. Prohibits requiring reports and determinations on trade surpluses after April 1991. Subtitle B: Reports - Directs the President to report annually to specified congressional committees on the operation of this Act. Title III: Trade Law Reform - Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to transfer to the USTR from the President the authority to order import relief and the authority to extend tariff preferences. Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to transfer to the USTR from the President the authority to approve or disapprove ITC actions to prevent unfair practices in import trade.
United States · United States Congress · 16 July 1985
Entitles individuals who performed service as National Guard technicians before January 1, 1969, to credit for such service when determining length of service for purposes of civil service retirement, leave, employee death and disability compensation, group life and health insurance, severance pay, tenure, and status.
United States · United States Congress · 16 July 1985
Children's Justice Act - Amends the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make additional grants to States for developing, operating, or implementing programs for: (1) handling child abuse cases in a manner to reduce trauma to the child (especially in sexual abuse cases); (2) successful prosecution or legal action against child abusers; and (3) protection of children from abuse. Makes a State eligible for such assistance if it establishes a multidisciplinary task force and adopts reforms recommended by such task force. Requires the task force to be comprised of professionals experienced in the criminal justice system. Requires a State to adopt reforms recommended by the task force in each of the three stipulated categories or submit a detailed explanation of the reasons for not carrying out such recommendations. Requires the Secretary, through the National Center on Child Abuse and Neglect, to: (1) compile, publish, and disseminate evaluations of the approaches utilized with respect to the investigation and prosecution of child abuse cases; (2) develop and disseminate model training materials and procedures to help insure that law enforcement, legal, judicial, and child welfare personnel are adequately trained to deal with child abuse victims; and (3) provide for support of research projects to assist in identifying effective approaches to achieving successful investigation and prosecution of child sexual abuse cases. Directs the Secretary, within two years, to review and evaluate the effectiveness of the activities carried out with the funds made available under this Act and report the results to the Congress. Requires the evaluation to be made available to State officials within 180 days after enactment of this Act. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Attorney General, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Education, and any other agency or department head designated by the President, to meet regularly to coordinate and prevent the overlap of programs that address child abuse. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to report to the Congress on the coordination of Federal programs. Requires the Attorney General to modify the classification system used by the National Crime Information Center in its Interstate Identification Index, and by the Identification Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in its Criminal File and its Uniform Crime Reporting System, with respect to offenses involving the sexual exploitation of children. Amends the Public Health Service Act with regard to the confidentiality of patient records to provide that nothing in such section shall supersede any State or local requirement for the reporting of incidents of suspected child abuse to authorities.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1985
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the: (1) local field office structure of the Social Security Administration should be maintained, strengthened, and fully staffed; and (2) proper amount of administrative costs of such offices should approximate 1.5 percent of the costs of the social security benefit programs serviced by such offices.
United States · United States Congress · 10 July 1985
Urges the President to begin talks with the Soviet Union aimed at creating a jointly administered U.S.-Soviet student exchange program. Sets forth certain aspects of such exchange program.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 1985
Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to prohibit the purchase, lease, or acquisition of control in any manner of a substantial portion of an air carrier by the following persons: (1) any air carrier which is a debtor; (2) any person who is a debtor and controls an air carrier; (3) any person controlling an air carrier which is a debtor; or (4) any person who is a debtor and is substantially engaged in the business of aeronautics.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 1985
Extends adverse action provisions (concerning removal, suspension for more than 14 days, reduction in grade or pay, or furlough for 30 days or less) to Postal Service employees who: (1) are preference eligibles, except to the extent of inconsistency with a collective bargaining agreement; (2) are supervisors or employees engaged in confidential personnel work; and (3) have completed two years of continuous service in the same or similar positions.
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1985
University Research Facilities Revitalization Act of 1985 - Requires each of the major Federal research and development agencies to establish and carry out a new university research laboratory modernization program, under which an amount equal to a specified portion of the funds available to the agency involved for research and development awards to institutions of higher education will be reserved for the replacement or modernization of such institutions' obsolete laboratories and other research facilities. Requires that funds under such program be awarded in response to specific proposals submitted by universities and colleges, in accordance with regulations prescribed by the head of the agency involved. Requires that such regulations provide that funds to carry out the program be awarded on a competitive basis and in an amount not exceeding 50 percent of the cost of the replacement or modernization involved. Sets forth required criteria for the award of such funds. Defines the "major Federal research and development agencies" as: (1) the National Science Foundation; (2) the Department of Health and Human Services; (3) the Department of Defense; (4) the Department of Energy; (5) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration; and (6) the Department of Agriculture. Title I: Identification and Assessment of University and College Research Facility Needs; Funding for the University Research Laboratory Modernization Program in the National Science Foundation - Authorizes the National Science Foundation (NSF) to design, establish, and maintain a data collection and analysis capability to identify and assess the research facilities needs of universities and colleges. Directs NSF, in conjunction with other appropriate Federal agencies, to: (1) conduct biennial surveys for such identification and assessment purposes; and (2) report the results to the Congress, with the first such report to be due on September 1, 1986. Directs the NSF, when conducting such surveys and reporting to the Congress, to also collect and assess data on the implementation of the university research laboratory modernization programs being carried out under this Act. Sets forth provisions for the funding for the university research laboratory modernization program in NSF. (Note: The following provisions are similar to those for such program funding in the other "major Federal research and development agencies" which are set forth in titles II, III, IV, V, and VI of this Act.) Authorizes appropriations for FY 1987 to NSF to implement and carry out the new university research laboratory modernization program. Requires that a specified minimum amount (equal to a portion, as determined by certain formulas, of the total amount which is appropriated to NSF for FY 1988 through 1996 and which is available for obligation by NSF for research and development awards to universities and colleges) be reserved for purposes of this Act and used only to carry out NSF's university research modernization program. Permits such funds to be used for such program either as a part of awards made to universities and colleges involved for activities carried out under the authority of other laws or through separate awards made for purposes of this Act. Requires that such funds be used only on the basis of proposals submitted by such universities and colleges. Requires that a specified minimum portion of such funds be available only for awards to universities and colleges that received less than $10,000,000 in total Federal obligations for research and development in each of the two preceding years. Title II: Funding for the University Research Laboratory Modernization Program in the Department of Health and Human Services - Sets forth provisions for the funding for the university research laboratory modernization program in the Department of Health and Human Services. (Note: These provisions are similar to the program funding provisions under title I.) Title III: Funding for the University Research Laboratory Modernization Program in the Department of Defense - Sets forth provisions for the funding for the university research laboratory modernization program in the Department of Defense. (Note: These provisions are similar to the program funding provisions under title I.) Title IV: Funding for the University Research Laboratory Modernization Program in the Department of Energy - Sets forth provisions for the funding for the university research laboratory modernization program in the Department of Energy. (Note: These provisions are similar to the program funding provisions under title I.) Title V: Funding for the University Research Laboratory Modernization Program in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration - Sets forth provisions for the funding for the university research laboratory modernization program in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. (Note: these provisions are similar to the program funding provisions under title I.) Title VI; Funding for the University Research Laboratory Modernization Program in the Department of Agriculture - Sets forth provisions for the funding for the university research laboratory modernization program in the Department of Agriculture. (Note: these provisions are similar to the program funding provision under title I.)
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 1985
Foreign Air Travel Security Act of 1985 - Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to direct the Secretary of Transportation to assess the efficacy of security measures at foreign airports which serve United States carriers or from which foreign air carriers serve the United States. Requires the Secretary to: (1) use criteria based on certain international standards; (2) report to the Congress regarding such assessments; (3) notify the appropriate authorities if a foreign airport does not administer effective security measures; (4) publish in the Federal Register the names of all foreign airports which have failed to bring their security measures up to an acceptable level of effectiveness; and (5) prominently display at all United States airports regularly serving scheduled air carrier operations the names of foreign airports whose security measures have not reached an acceptable level of effectiveness. Authorizes the Secretary, with the approval of the Secretary of State, to withhold or impose conditions on the operating authority of any carrier to engage in foreign air transportation utilizing foreign airports with deficient security measures. Requires air carriers, including foreign air carriers, providing service between the United States and a foreign airport determined by the Secretary to have deficient security measures to notify passengers of that determination by written material included with the ticket to the relevant airport.
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 1985
Act to Combat International Terrorism - Defines "international terrorism" for purposes of this Act. Defines "state support of international terrorism" as any act of terrorism when committed deliberately by a State by: (1) furnishing arms, explosives, or lethal substances; (2) planning, directing, or training for such an act; (3) providing financial support; (4) providing diplomatic facilities to aid in the commission of such an act; or (5) allowing the use of its territory as a sanctuary from extradition or prosecution. Directs the President to report to the Congress every six months on incidents he determines to be acts of international terrorism. Requires the President to report within 30 days of an occurrence of terrorism if it involves citizens, property, or significant interests of the United States. Requires the report to include: (1) a description of the incident and identity of the individual, group or organization involved in the incident; (2) the identity of any government providing support; (3) a description of the actions of any government assisting in bringing about a positive termination of the incident; and (4) a description of U.S. response to the incident. Directs the President, every six months, to submit a list of states supporting international terrorism to the Congress with reasons for such determinations. Provides that with respect to any listed state the President: (1) shall not provide assistance under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961; (2) shall not sell any defense articles under the Arms Control Act; and (3) shall follow a certain procedure with regard to applications for licenses under the Arms Export Control Act. Authorizes the President to devise initiatives to combat international terrorist actions and reduce state support for such actions, including: (1) the suspension of air service between the United States and any state supporting international terrorist actions; and (2) appropriate diplomatic measures. Requires the President to promptly and fully inform the Congress on such actions. Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to require the Secretary of Transportation to conduct an assessment and report to the Congress on the effectiveness of security measures at foreign airports. Requires the Secretary to notify the appropriate authorities of a foreign government if the Secretary finds that one of its airports does not maintain and administer effective security measures. Sets forth notification procedures and, in certain circumstances, procedures to suspend service with regard to an airport which fails to bring security measures up to the specified standards. Authorizes the Secretary to provide technical assistance and training to foreign governments in aviation security. Amends the Federal criminal code to define "identification taggant" and "detection taggant." Makes it unlawful for any person to manufacture any explosive material which does not contain an identification taggant and a detection taggant. Prohibits the resale or disposal of any explosive material sold as surplus by a military, naval, or other agency of the United States which does not contain such identification or detection taggants. Allows the Secretary of the Treasury, under certain conditions, to delay the requirements with regard to detection and identification taggants. Exempts explosive material used by the Department of Defense or for national security from such identification requirements. Amends the Federal criminal code with regard to the destruction of aircraft facilities. Prohibits any act of violence against an individual on board a foreign aircraft while such aircraft is in flight. Makes it an offense to cause damage to (or place explosive devices or substances on) a foreign aircraft which renders it incapable of flight or is likely to endanger that aircraft's safety in flight. Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to extend the "special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States" to any violator of the Montreal Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts Against the Safety of Civil Aviation as long as the aircraft involved lands in the United States with an alleged offender still on board. Makes it a Federal criminal offense to convey any threats with the apparent determination and will to carry out such a threat with regard to the destruction of aircraft, trains, or vessels. Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to provide civil and criminal penalties for conveying false information with regard to aircraft piracy. Imposes a civil penalty upon any unauthorized person having possession of a concealed weapon while aboard or boarding any aircraft. Urges the President to seek international agreements to assure more effective cooperation in combating terrorism.
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1985
Expresses the sense of the Congress that procurement of the new U.S. weather radar system, NEXRAD, continue on schedule and according to the established minimum requirements agreed to by the National Weather Service, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the Department of Defense.
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 1985
Fair Insurance Coverage Act - Prohibits any insurer from discriminating in an insurance contract against any person because of blindness. Includes within the prohibition refusing to make or negotiate a contract for insurance or giving different treatment with respect to terms, conditions, rates, or benefits because of blindness. Establishes a preference for State actions prior to judicial enforcement under this Act. Authorizes any aggrieved person, in the absence of State actions or jurisdiction, to bring an action under this Act for individual relief. Authorizes the Attorney General of the United States to bring an action for injunctive relief whenever there is reasonable cause to believe a person is engaged in a pattern or practice of discrimination or when an individual is aggrieved and an issue of general public importance is raised. Grants the Federal district courts jurisdiction of such actions regardless of the amount in controversy. Allows a court to order monetary, equitable, or other appropriate relief, including punitive damages.
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 1985
Risk Assessment Research and Demonstration Act of 1985 - Directs the President to establish coordinated projects which shall be designed to: (1) improve the use of risk assessment within Federal agencies mandated by law to protect life, health, and the environment; (2) develop a systematic approach to the use of risk assessment by Federal agencies; (3) identify research needed to improve risk assessment; and (4) bring public awareness to the nature of regulated risks. Describes risk assessment as the use of factual bases to quantify the effects of exposure to potentially hazardous materials and situations. Directs the President to designate an appropriate scientific advisory agency to coordinate the projects. Directs such agency to submit a report to the Congress which includes: (1) a review of the risk assessments presently being carried out in Federal agencies; (2) recommendations for sharing research results among Federal agencies; (3) a proposal for the risk assessment demonstration projects required by this Act to be undertaken by specified Federal agencies; and (4) identification of the areas where the use of the results of a risk assessment is required, encouraged, limited, or prohibited by current law, regulation, or practice. Requires specified Federal agencies to recommend to the coordinating agency research projects relating to risk assessment. Directs the coordinating agency to report to the Congress with recommendations concerning risk assessment.
United States · United States Congress · 11 June 1985
Coal Pipeline Act of 1985 - Amends the Mineral Lands Leasing Act of 1920 to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to grant rights-of-way over Federal lands to certain persons for coal pipeline purposes. Proscribes the granting of any right-of-way through Federal land which is part of a historic site of national, State, or local significance unless there is no reasonable alternative and reasonable planning is made to minimize the harm to such site. Prohibits any person or entity (including the United States) from claiming any right or interest in water within any State for a coal pipeline unless such claim takes places under the law of the affected State. Delegates to the States all power regarding water rights for a coal pipeline in spite of any otherwise impermissible burden which may thereby be imposed upon interstate commerce. States that this Act does not: (1) impair the validity of any State law (or interstate compact) regarding any claim to water rights; (2) alter the rights of any State to its apportioned share of water under past or future allocation or interstate compact; (3) affect any Indian water rights; or (4) preempt or otherwise affect any State or Federal law or interstate compact regarding water quality or disposal. Prohibits any State acting under authority of this Act from restricting the movement through such State of water acquired in another State and within a coal pipeline. Authorizes certain persons who have received a certification from the Secretary that it is in the national interest to operate or extend a coal pipeline to acquire rights-of-way through private lands by the power of eminent domain. States this Act shall not be construed to permit any person (including the United States) to acquire any water rights through the power of eminent domain. Prohibits the acquisition of any right-of-way through the power of eminent domain if such right-of-way is upon land which is part of a historic site of national, State, or local significance, unless there is no prudent alternative and reasonable planning is made to minimize harm to such site. Sets forth certification guidelines under which the Secretary shall determine whether construction, operation, or extension of a coal pipeline is in the national interest. Requires each pipeline carrier for which a certification has been issued to provide service on reasonable request. Prohibits such carriers from unreasonably discriminating or refusing to enter into contracts with coal shippers under similar conditions in a contemporaneous period. Requires the Secretary to publish notice of coal pipeline certifications in the Federal Register. States that this Act shall not be construed to modify or preempt the ratemaking authority of any State utility regulatory agency. Requires the Secretary to establish uniform Federal standards for coal pipeline safety. Establishes penalties for failure to comply with such safety standards.
United States · United States Congress · 10 June 1985
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States: (1) should not sell advanced weapons to Jordan; (2) should ensure that Israel retains its qualitative military edge in the Middle East; and (3) should focus its efforts on bringing Jordan into direct peace negotiations with Israel.
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 1985
International Air Transportation Protection Act of 1985 - Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to direct the Secretary of Transportation to revoke an air carrier's international air transportation certificate if the Secretary establishes that a hostile takeover of such air carrier has occurred, and that a sale or transfer of such certificate has occurred (or been attempted) as part of the liquidation of such air carrier (other than in the ordinary course of business). States that the Secretary is not precluded from issuing any certificate for international air transportation if the Secretary finds the applicant is willing and able to provide such transportation and it is consistent with public convenience and necessity. Directs the Department of Transportation to determine whether each major United States international airline is fit, willing, and able to continue the transportation authorized by its certificate of public convenience and necessity. Requires the Department to render a final decision in such proceedings within 90 days after enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 1985
Designates the period of October 1, 1985, through September 30, 1986, as the time to reflect on the achievements of the Peace Corps during its 25 years and on ways such programs might be used in the future. Authorizes and requests the President to proclaim this period as a time to honor Peace Corps volunteers and reaffirm the Nation's commitment to such programs.
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1985
Improved Standards for Laboratory Animals Act - Amends the Animal Welfare Act to revise the humane standards for animals transported in commerce. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to promulgate standards to govern the humane handling, care, treatment, and transportation of animals by dealers, research facilities, and exhibitors. Requires each research facility to establish an institutional animal study committee with sufficient expertise to assess the appropriateness of animal care and treatment in experimental research. Requires the committee at each facility to: (1) inspect at least semiannually all animal study areas and animal areas and animal facilities at the research facility; (2) file an inspection certification report of each inspection at the research facility; (3) notify the administrative representative of the research facility of any deficiencies; and (4) notify the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and the funding Federal agency if such deficiencies remain uncorrected. Requires each research facility to provide for annual training in the humane treatment of animals for scientists, animal technicians, and other personnel involved with animal care and treatment in such facility. Directs the Secretary to establish an information service at the National Agricultural library to provide information on improved methods of animal experimentation, including: (1) employee training; (2) preventing unnecessary duplication of animal experimentation; (3) reducing or replacing animal use; and (4) minimizing pain and distress. Requires funding Federal agencies to revoke Federal support for a project if it is determined that conditions of animal care, treatment, or practice in a particular project have not been in compliance with standards promulgated under this Act. Requires the Secretary to inspect each research facility at least once each year. Requires such follow-up inspections as may be necessary until all deficiencies which may be found are corrected. Imposes penalties for the release of any confidential information or trade secrets by any member of an institutional animal committee. Increases penalties for violations of the Animal Welfare Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1985
Designates August 14, 1985, as Social Security Day and the week of August 11 through August 17, 1985, as Social Security Week. Authorizes and requests the President to commemorate August 14, 1985, as the 50th anniversary of the Social Security Act.
![Official portrait of Rep. Young, Robert A. [D-MO-2]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/y000051_200.jpg)