United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Amends the Merchant Marine Act to extend coastwise shipping laws with respect to the transportation of crude oil, residual fuel oil, and refined petroleum products to the Virgin Islands.
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Local Public Works Capital Development and Investment Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Economic Development Administration, to make grants to any State or local government for local public works projects, including but not limited to: (1) those public works projects of State and local governments for which Federal financial assistance is authorized under provisions of law other than this Act; and (2) the architectural design, engineering, and related planning of local public works projects. Stipulates that the Federal share of any project for which a grant is made under this Act shall be 100 percent of the cost of such project. Authorizes the Secretary to make an additional grant for the purpose of increasing to 100 percent the Federal contribution to a public works project for which Federal financial assistance is authorized under provisions of law other than this Act. Stipulates that no such grants shall be made for any project which has as its principal purpose the channelization, damming, dredging, or diversion of a natural watercourse, or the enlargement of any canal other than a canal designated as a historic site. Directs the Secretary to prescribe rules, regulations, and procedures necessary to carry out this Act. Lists factors that the Secretary shall consider in accordance with the relative needs of the various sections of the country, with priority consideration to those areas where unemployment exceeds the national average. Stipulates that not less than one-half of one percent nor more than ten percent of all amounts authorized under this title shall be allocated for local public works projects within any one State. Authorizes the appropriation of $2,500,000,000 through fiscal year 1977 in order to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1976
Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to assist any veteran, who has a permanent and total service-connected disability due to the loss, or loss of use, of one arm and one leg, including but not limited to cases of hemiparaplegia, such as to preclude locomotion without the aid of braces, crutches, canes, or a wheelchair, in acquiring a suitable housing unit with special fixtures or moveable facilities made necessary by the nature of the veteran's disability, and necessary land therefor. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 801)
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1976
Amends the National Sea Grant College and Program Act of 1966 by authorizing the appropriation of $50,000,000 for Sea Grant Colleges and Marine Science Development. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to support and encourage the advancement of research and development capabilities of other nations relating to the exploration, conservation, and management of marine resources. Authorizes the Secretary to support the funding of education and training of foreign nationals through sea grant colleges and other suitable institutes and agencies of the United States. Authorizes the appropriation of $3,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 to carry out such provisions. Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 to enable the Secretary to enter into contracts with, or make grants to, specified organizations for purposes of conducting activities of a national scope and concern appropriate in assisting him in carrying out programs relating to the development, conservation, utilization, management, and protection of the marine environment.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1976
Amends the Tariff Schedules of the United States to require proof of automobile property and personal liability insurance on automobiles imported for the personal use of nonresidents and foreign government personnel, in an amount equal to the minimum insurance requirements in those States in which the vehicle will be operated. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to forward identifying information on such vehicles to the Secretary of Transportation who shall forward such information to the appropriate State agency responsible for motor vehicle registration. Excludes from such requirements automobiles which will be in the United States for not more than 30 days. Requires importers of automobiles so excluded to forward the required information to the nearest customs officer in the event the vehicle remains in the country for 40 days. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to impose a fine of $5,000 upon violators of this Act who had no notice of such requirements. Sets forth penalties of $5,000 or imprisonment for not more than one year, or both, for knowingly failing to furnish information required under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1976
Removes the present requirement that a veteran either: (1) have been discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable; or (2) have died while in the active service, for his widow, children, or parents to be eligible for dependency and indemnity compensation. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 410)
United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1976
Designates April 15 of each year as "Holocaust Remembrance Day". Authorizes and requests the President to issue a proclamation each year calling for the observance of such day with appropriate ceremonies.
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1976
Revenue Sharing Amendments - Extends the appropriations for the State and Local Fiscal Assistance Act through fiscal year 1979. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1979 for State and local government modernization. Provides for a three-year forward authorization of appropriation to the State and Local Government Fiscal Assistance Trust Fund. Revises the formula for allocation of moneys from the Trust Fund to the States. Repeals the provision under such Act for a minimum per capita entitlement for a county area or any unit of local government. Revises the definition of terms applicable to allocation formulas, including the revision of the terms "income factor" and "population"; and changes the rules for determination of the general tax effort factor of States, counties, and units of general local government. States the conditions for qualification for additional entitlements of States for modernization of State and local governments, including submission of a timetable and master plan for such modernization by the State Governor. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to report to the Congress on the operation of the Trust Fund on or before January 15 of each year. Requires State and local governments to assure full and timely citizen participation in the expenditure of funds under the Act, to make information available to the citizenry so that its participation may be intelligent, to submit to the Secretary a planned use report for such funds, and to establish a Citizens Advisory Committee in each governmental unit with a population of 50,000 or more to generally act in the interest of the private citizens of such unit. Authorizes the Attorney General to: (1) investigate complaints alleging discrimination under any program or activity conducted by a State or local government that receives funds made available under the Act; (2) bring a civil action in the appropriate Federal district court to enjoin such discrimination; and (3) request the Secretary of the Treasury to terminate revenue sharing payments after an express finding of discrimination. Grants citizens the right to bring actions for preventive relief against a State or local government having engaged or about to engage in a discriminatory act. Requires, in order to qualify for payments under the Act, that States assure the Secretary that: (1) the provisions of the Uniform Relocation Assistance Act as they apply to relocation payments to homeowners and tenants of property acquired with funds provided by this Act will be complied with; and (2) that funds allocable to governments of Indian tribes and Alaskan Native villages will be spent for the benefit of the members of the tribe or village.
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1976
Disapproves the proposed budget deferral D76-105, relating to budget authority for the special supplemental food program (WIC) administered by the Food and Nutrition Service of the Department of Agriculture.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1976
Arts, Humanities, and Cultural Affairs Act - Title I: Arts and Humanities - Amends the National Foundation on the Arts and the Humanities Act to authorize the Chairman of the of the National Endowment for the Humanities to establish grants-in-aid programs in each State to develop and promote the humanities. Sets forth standards relating to program administration for plans submitted by persons and entities seeking assistance. Prohibits the Chairman from making grants to more than one person or entity in any State. Specifies a formula for alloting funds appropriated for grants-in-aid. Authorizes appropriation to the National Endowment for the Arts and to the National Endowment for the Humanities of specified sums for fiscal years 1977 and 1978 and such funds as may be necessary for fiscal years 1979 and 1980. Revises the maximum amount which may be appropriated to such Endowments as grants matching amounts received through donation, bequest, and devise. Requires the President to appoint members of the National Council on the Arts and members of the National Council on the Humanities with the advice and consent of the Senate. Title II: Museum Services - Museum Services Act - Establishes within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare an Institute of Museum Services, consisting of a National Museum Services Board and a Director of the Institute. Authorizes the Director, subject to the advice of the Board, to make grants to museums to increase and improve museum services. Confers authority to the Institute to accept grants, gifts, or bequests of money for immediate disbursement in furtherance of the functions of the Institute. Directs the Federal Council on the Arts and Humanities to advise and consult with the Board and the Director on major problems incurred by the Institute and to coordinate the Institute's policies and activities with those of the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities. Authorizes the appropriation of funds for grants by the Institute for fiscal years 1977 through 1980. Title III: Challenge Grant Program - Authorizes the Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts to establish a program of contracts with, or grants-in-aid to, public agencies and private nonprofit organizations for the purpose of assisting cultural organizations and institutions and promoting citizen involvement with such bodies. Authorizes the appropriation of funds through fiscal year 1980 to carry out such program.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1976
Vocational Education Amendments - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1977 to carry out specified provisions of the Vocational Education Act of 1963. Directs the Commissioner of Education to reserve a portion of specified appropriations for transfer to the National Occupational Information Coordinating Committee and for vocational education programs for Indians. Requires States desiring to participate in programs authorized by such Act to designate or establish a State board, which shall be the sole agency responsible for the administration or supervision of the administration of such programs. States that the responsibilities of such board shall include: (1) the development of policy with respect to vocational education programs; and (2) the development and submission to the Commissioner of the three-year State plan and the annual accountability required under such Act. Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to establish a Bureau of Occupational and Adult Education within the Office of Education to be responsible for: (1) the administration of any Acts of Congress vesting authority in the Commissioner for vocational, occupational, adult and continuing education programs; (2) the administration of those portions of Acts relating to career education which are relevant to the purposes of other Acts administered by the Bureau; and (3) the functions of the Office of Education relating to manpower training and vocational, technical and occupational training in community and junior colleges. Directs such Bureau to conduct a comprehensive review analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of the programs assisted with funds under such Act. Directs the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare to conduct a fiscal audit of such programs, within each State. Includes, in the membership of the National Advisory Council on Vocational Education and the State advisory councils established under the Vocational Education Act of 1963, representatives of nonprofit private schools, women knowledgeable with the problems of sex discrimination in job training, and persons knowledgeable in the field of guidance and counseling. States that such councils shall have a majority membership of persons who are not educators or administrators in the field of education. Directs such National Council, in conjunction with the National Commission for Manpower Policy, and State advisory councils in conjunction with the State Manpower Services Councils, to identify the vocational and manpower needs of the Nation and assess the extent to which vocational programs represent an integrated and coordinated approach to meeting such needs. Includes in the membership of the National Commission for Manpower Policy a representative of the National Advisory Council on Vocational Education. Authorizes appropriations under the Vocational Education Act of 1963 for the purpose of making grants to State advisory councils to carry out the functions of such councils. Stipulates how such sums are to be apportioned. Requires States desiring to receive funds under such Act to submit a three-year plan for vocational education to the Commissioner. Authorizes appropriations for: (1) the preparation and updating of such plans; (2) the preparation of the annual accountability report required under such Act; and (3) program evaluation. Lists the State agencies which the State board shall involve in the participation and formulation of such plan. Requires that such plans: (1) assess the present and future needs for job skills within the State; (2) set forth the objectives sought and the means employed in meeting the need for such job skills; and (3) set forth how the funds made available under such Act shall be used. Authorizes the Commissioner, whenever a plan or the administration of such plan no longer complies with such requirement, to withhold payments to such State until he or she is satisfied that there will no longer be such failure to comply. Requires each State participating in programs under such Act to submit to the Commissioner an annual accountability report which shall: (1) include any necessary updating of the State plan; (2) show the extent to which the objectives of the plan have been achieved; (3) how State, local, and Federal funds were used and distributed to achieve such objectives; and (4) a summary of the evaluations of vocational programs. Requires States to evaluate the effectiveness of such vocational education programs. Sets forth specified criteria to be used in making such evaluation. Directs the Commissioner to further prescribe nationally uniform criteria and procedures to be used in such evaluations. Directs the Commissioner and Administrator of the National Center for Education Statistics to jointly develop information and uniform definitions for a national vocational education data reporting and accounting system including information on vocational students, programs, program completers, staff, facilities and expenditures. Directs the Commissioner in conjunction with the Administrator to prepare an annual report on the status of vocational education. Establishes a National Occupational Information Coordinating Committee to: (1) improve coordination between administrators and planners of vocational education programs; (2) to develop and implement an occupational information system to meet the needs of vocational education programs, and employment and training programs; and (3) assist the State occupational information committees which are required to be established pursuant to this Act for the planning and operation of similar programs at the State level. Revises the authorized uses of funds for State vocational education programs. Authorizes appropriations which States may use for: (1) special programs for disadvantaged persons as defined in this Act; (2) supportive services for basic vocational education programs; (3) support of State research coordinating units and for contracts made by such units pursuant to comprehensive plans of program improvement; (4) construction, equipment, and operation of residential schools to provide vocational education; (5) cooperative vocational education programs; and (6) work-study programs. Directs the Commissioner to pay to each State participating in vocational education programs, an amount equal to 50 percent of the State and local expenditures in carrying out its State plan. Sets forth formulas to determine the amount of Federal payments to States for various programs under this Act. Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1981 for consumer and homemaking education programs under the Vocational Education Act of 1963. Sets forth the requirements for State plans to be eligible for funds for such programs. Directs the Commissioner, from funds reserved under this Act, to use such funds for contracts for program improvement projects and for the support of a national center for research in vocational education. States that such Center shall, either directly or through contracts: (1) conduct applied research and development on problems of national significance in vocational education and disseminate the results of such projects; (2) provide leadership development through an advanced study center and inservice education activities for State and local leaders in vocational education; (3) develop and provide information to facilitate national planning and policy development in vocational education; (4) act as a clearinghouse for information on contracts made for program inprovement projects; and (5) develop methods of evaluating programs. Establishes within the Education Division of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare a Coordinating Committee on Research in Vocational Education to: (1) develop a plan establishing national priorities for the use of funds for vocational education programs, projects, and research and to coordinate the efforts of various agencies in seeking to achieve such priorities; and (2) develop a management information system on the projects funded pursuant to such plan. Directs the Commissioner of Education, with the Secretary of Labor, to develop and disseminate information on the status of bilingual education in the United States and to evaluate the impact of such education on the shortages of well-trained personnel and the unemployment of persons with limited English-speaking ability. Authorizes the Commissioner to enter into contracts for bilingual vocational education programs. Sets forth the purposes for which such contracts or grants may be used. Directs qualified vocational educators to provide such individuals an opportunity to spend full time in advanced study of vocational education for a maximum three year period. Directs the Commissioner to pay to the institutions of higher education in which such individual is pursuing his or her course of study such amounts as are consistent with the prevailing practices under comparable federally supported programs. Sets forth the requirements an institution must meet to have its vocational education leadership development program approved by the Commissioner. Directs the National Institute of Education to undertake an evaluation and study of vocational education programs. States that such Institution shall make an interim report on the results of such study to the President and Congress by September 30, 1979, and a final reprot by September 30, 1980. Directs the National Center for Education Statistics to coordinate data collection and the formation and issuance of applications for vocational education programs and to disseminate summaries of such data collected to States, local educational agencies, and colleges and universities. Repeals provisions of the Higher Education Act of 1965 relating to occupational education programs. Extends the authorization for appropriations until 1978 for grants to States under the National Defense Education Act. Sets forth the effective dates for the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1976
Creates a nine member House Select Committee on the Fiscal Problems of Cities. Directs the committee to conduct a study to identify the nature and causes of problems afflicting large cities which face severe fiscal imbalance. Provides that consideration shall be given problems which contribute to the financial plight of cities, including: (1) net outmigration of population; (2) decline in employment opportunities; (3) adverse city/suburban relationships; (4) cost of public services; (5) rising crime rates; (6) lack of new investment in housing; and (7) racial, ethnic, and economic segregation. Calls upon the committee to develop a policy regarding the appropriate role of various levels of government in the solution of such problems. Requires the committee to evaluate the consequences of, and coordination among, existing Federal policies and programs which relate to the major problems identified by the committee. Directs the committee to formulate specific recommendations regarding Federal legislation and executive administrative action for modifications of or alternatives to present Federal programs.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Repeals the revisions of the Official United States Standards with respect to the grading of carcass beef and slaughter cattle. States that no change shall become effective in grade designations or specifications for slaughter cattle or carcass beef which provides for a higher grade designation for such cattle or carcass than would exist under current standards. Authorizes and directs the Secretary of Agriculture to promulgate regulations to establish a different and non deceptive grade designation and specification for beef.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Establishes a Bureau of Agricultural Statistics within the Department of Agriculture. States that the Bureau shall obtain information with regard to: (1) the prices received by producers and processors of agricultural commodities; and (2) the wholesale and retail prices of food. Directs the Bureau to issue a report to the Congress containing a summary of such information and recommendations for legislation to provide lower retail prices when the prices received by producers of any agricultural commodity are decreasing or remaining constant and the retail prices of food made from such commodity are increasing. Places such Bureau under the direction of a Commissioner of Agricultural Statistics to be appointed by the President. Directs such Commissioner to recommend to Congress legislation providing any mandatory reporting requirement the Commissioner deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1976
Administrative Rule Making Reform Act - Requires a Federal agency preparing to hold a rule making session to make a reasonable effort to inform those likely to be affected by the proposed rule making. Requires that if the affected group is large, representatives of such group must be notified. Requires, in addition to present requirements, that the notice of rule making include the projected effective date of the rules, the purpose of the rule making, the text of the proposed rules, and the technical or other studies on which the agency intends to rely in the rule making proceedings. Applies the requirements of this Act to all rule making sessions except (1) those specifically authorized to be kept secret in the interest of national security, and (2) those relating to agency management. Requires public notice and public opportunity for comment of all rule making proceedings under this Act unless the agency finds that the rules to be proposed are emergency rules or are of routine or insignificant impact in which case the rule must be published with reasons for its adoption. Requires Federal agencies to give interested persons at least 45 days to participate in the rule making. Requires the agency to maintain a file of each proceeding to be made available to the courts, Congress, and to the public in connection with review of the rule. Limits the period for public comment to a maximum of 90 days. Requires a copy of all proposed rules to be sent to Congress. States that such rule, other than an emergency rule, shall not become effective if it is disapproved within 90 days by both Houses of Congress, or it is disapproved within 60 days by one House and no action is taken on the disapproval resolution by the other House. Provides that either House of Congress may, by resolution, require any agency to reconsider and resubmit any rule to which this Act applies. Requires that such proposed rule be repromulgated anew in accordance with all the provisions of this Act unless it is reconsidered and resubmitted to Congress within 180 days after the adoption of the resolution requiring such reconsideration. Sets forth procedures for adoption of resolutions to approve, disapprove, or compel reconsideration for both Houses. Requires the Administrative Conference of the United States to study Congressional review of agency rule making under this Act and report the effect of such review on such rule making before July 1, 1982. Authorizes to be appropriated $200,000 to finance such study. Makes this Act effective on the first day of the first session of the Ninety-fifth Congress. Terminates the Congressional review required by this Act at the adjournment of the Ninety-seventh Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1976
Expresses the sense of Congress that the negotiations between Southern Railway and Chessie System on one hand and railway labor organizations on the other should be resumed, with the assistance of the Secretaries of Labor and Transportation.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1976
Authorizes payment under the supplementary medical insurance program of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act for hearing aids and dentures.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1976
Financial Assistance for Health Care Act - Declares it the purpose of this Act to assist each State, territory, and the District of Columbia in assuring all residents, particularly low income persons, of access to needed health services of acceptable quality. Title I: Financial Assistance for Health Care - Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums for the purposes of carrying out this title, and sets forth the manner and methods of distribution. Requires each State to expend not less than 90 percent of the amount payable to it to provide personal health services to low- income persons, and not less than five percent on: (1) community health protection; (2) community-based services in mental health, alcoholism, and drug abuse; and (3) developmental disabilities programs. Requires each State to formulate a State health care plan setting forth a description of: (1) State health services activities; (2) the needs of individuals living in rural or medically underserved areas; (3) the supply and distribution of health facilities, services, and manpower; and (4) the relationship of the plan's provisions to its effect on children, the elderly, migrants, the mentally ill, the handicapped, alcoholics, drug abusers, and those suffering from developmental disabilities. Directs that each State plan provide for the administration of a certificate of need program to review the need for new institutional health services. Requires such plan to provide for an annual audit of State expenditures, assessment of the plan's implementation, and a report of such audit and assessment. Directs each State to create two or more sub-State health planning districts, each with a health planning body to develop proposed provisions for inclusion in the State plan. Directs each State receiving financial assistance for health care to certify to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare that it has a qualified State health care plan. Allows the Secretary, upon determination that the plan fails to comply with requirements, to make no further payments or to reduce payments until the Secretary is satisfied that there will no longer be a failure to comply. Title II: Federal Health Planning Acivities - Permits the Secretary to undertake health planning activities, including the establishment of a National Health Planning and Policy Council. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for such purpose. Title III: Repeal of Various Health Laws - Repeals specified portions of existing laws in conformance with the provisions of this Act. Title IV: Conforming Amendments - Makes specified technical and conforming amendments for purposes of this Act. Title V: Effective Date - Declares that this Act is effective for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1976
Provides for the disposal under the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 of surplus real property at not less than 25 percent of fair market value to States and their political subdivisions, agencies, and instrumentalities for economic development purposes where such areas meet special needs arising from actual or threatened severe unemployment arising from the closing of Federal facilities.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1976
Lifeline Rate Act - Stipulates that no rate schedule of an electric utility shall result in a greater per kilowatt-hour charge to residential electric consumers for a subsistence quantity of electric energy than the lowest charge to any other electric consumer. Sets forth procedures for civil suits and judicial review where violations by utilities as regulatory authorities are alleged under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1976
Prohibits the landing or taking off, except in emergencies, of any supersonic aircraft which generates a noise level in excess of the level prescribed for new subsonic aircraft from Dulles International Airport or Washington National Airport.
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1976
Amends the National Sea Grant College and Program Act of 1966 to authorize appropriations for such Act through September 30, 1979. Authorizes the expenditure of $40,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $45,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and $50,000,000 for fiscal year 1979. Provides that provisions of the Act prohibiting the use of funds for the purchase or rental of any land or the rental, purchase, construction, or repair of buildings, docks, or vessels shall not apply to the payment for the services of research vessels and other ocean facilities directly supporting specific sea grant sponsored activities. Redefines "marine environment" to include the seabed and subsoil of submarine areas beyond the Continental Shelf and the natural resources thereof. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to encourage the advancement of other nations relating to the exploration, conservation, and management of marine resources. Gives the Secretary authority to support the funding of education and training of foreign nationals through sea-grant institutions. Authorizes the appropriation of $3,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 1977 through 1979 to carry out such functions. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into contracts with, or grants to, eligible institutions to assist the Secretary in carrying out programs relating to the development, management, and protection of the marine environment.
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1976
Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to prohibit a pipeline company engaged in the transportation of oil from transporting any oil through its pipelines if that company has an interest in such oil.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1976
Amends the Federal Power Act to require that rate increases for the interstate sale of electricity may not be granted until public hearings on such increases have been completed by the Federal Power Commission. Requires 30 days' notice of all rate changes by a public utility to the Federal Power Commission and to the public.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1976
Adoption Opportunities Act - Title I: National Registry of Adoptable Children - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish and maintain a National Registry of Adoptable Children. Requires that the Registry contain statistics on the numbers of adoptable children in the United States. Directs the Secretary to conduct a continuing national survey to develop and keep current such statistics, and to publish the Registry or make it as widely available as possible. Title II: National Data Bank of Adoption Information and Resources - Provides that the Secretary shall establish and maintain a National Data Bank of Adoption Information and Resources to assist individuals desiring to adopt children. States that the Bank will provide prospective parents with current information on pre-adoption, adoption, and post-adoption costs, and with information on adoption agencies and their services. Requires the Secretary to conduct a continuing national survey to keep the Bank's information current. Title III: Requirements Applicable to Certain Child Related Programs - Subjects specified Social Security programs or projects to whatever requirements the State, in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Secretary, establishes for the purpose of: (1) insuring that adoption agencies which indirectly or directly federally funded are associated with an adoption service, are conducting an annual review of the status of each child under its care, and are having their expenditures periodically evaluated; (2) licensing all foster care homes in which agencies place children; and (3) promoting and administering State and local programs designed to make children under agency care legally free for adoption by qualified parents. Directs the Secretary to provide for periodic evaluation of State and local programs to insure compliance with this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 February 1976
Redefines "firearm" under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 and "any other weapon" under the National Firearms Act to include electric weapons for purposes of regulation of the sale, manufacture, importation, transportation and taxation of such weapons.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1976
Sets forth the findings of Congress that marine fires are a major hazard to port populations and property and have resulted in substantial economic harm. States that the purposes of this Act are to: (1) provide for the adequate training of United States merchant seamen in marine fire prevention and onboard firefighting; (2) provide for the establishment of marine firefighting units which utilize the manpower and resources of local fire departments and are specially trained in shipboard firefighting techniques for purposes of training local fire departments and ship crews and providing on-the-scene emergency assistance for fighting marine fires; and (3) utilize the United States Coast Guard to coordinate and control marine firefighting activity by firefighting units established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Secretary of Commerce, under the Merchant Marine Act of 1936, to establish within the United States such number of marine firefighting regions as he deems necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act. Provides for the selection and establishment of regional and satellite firefighting units from each region. States that each unit shall, upon order by the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating, provide firefighting services at any marine fire in any region, and provide education and training in marine firefighting techniques to local fire departments and the crews of merchant vessels. Directs the Secretary to establish marine fire protection and firefighting training programs for members of regional and satellite units and for United States marine seamen. Permits the Secretary to enter into cooperative agreements with concerned States and local governmental agencies which set forth the responsibilities and functions which each party agrees to undertake in carrying out the purposes of this Act. Sets forth additional duties of the Secretary, including the responsibility for developing plans for each region relating to the utilization and pooling of marine firefighting resources. Stipulates that all seagoing vessels operating in the foreign or domestic commerce of the United States shall have on board a prefire plan for the vessel. States that such prefire plan must be prepared by, or prepared under the supervision of, a regional or satellite unit, or approved by the Secretary if prepared by an entity other than a regional or satellite unit. Authorizes appropriations of up to $500,000 as a contingency fund to meet the expenses incurred by regional units, satellite units, and other assisting firefighting organizations which have not been reimbursed by vessels owners or operators receiving their services. Authorizes appropriations of sums necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1976
School Safety Act - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to furnish financial assistance to aid local educational agencies in providing security for children, employees, and facilities in elementary and secondary schools by reducing and preventing crimes against them and to assure that crimes committed in schools are reported to local law enforcement agencies. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. Permits a local educational agency to receive a grant under this Act only upon the determination of the Commissioner of Education that the local agency has adopted and is implementing, or will implement with financial assistance received pursuant to these provisions, a plan to reduce crime and increase the safety and security of the students, employees, and facilities of the schools. Sets forth specified measures to be covered by such plans, including: (1) the acquisition of additional staff members; (2) planning and evaluation activities; and (3) minor alterations of school plants and facilities.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1976
Establishes an 11 member Commission on the Humane Treatment of Animals to study the treatment of animals. Requires that the membership include zoologists, veterinarians, and representatives from humane societies. Requires the Commission to determine if animals are caused needless pain or suffering as a result of their treatment: (1) on farms; (2) in zoos; (3) in laboratory experimentation; and (4) in other situations. Excludes the study or treatment of animals occurring in connection with the exercise of any religion. Directs the Commission to report its findings to the Congress and the President within two years after its last member is appointed. Terminates the Commission 60 days after it submits its final report. Authorizes appropriaions of $750,000 per year to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1976
Directs the House Committee on Public Works and Transportation to convene a full scale investigation into the entire process surrounding Secretary of Transportation William Coleman's decision to grant the Anglo-French Concorde landing rights at John F. Kennedy Airport and at Dulles International Airport.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1976
Requires, where a defendent is found guilty of or pleads guilty to an explosive related offense for which one of the possible sentences is death, that the judge who presided at the trial or before whom the guilty plea was entered conduct a separate hearing to determine the existence of mitigating and aggravating factors. Dismisses such requirement where the Government stipulates that none of the aggravating factors exists or that one or more of the mitigating factors exists. Requires that the hearing be conducted before a jury or, if the defendent so moves, before the court alone, if the court and the Government approve. Requires the court to disclose to the defendant or his counsel all material contained in any presentence report, if one has been prepared, except such material as the court determines is required to be withheld for the protection of human life or for the protection of national security. Removes from consideration any such presentence information withheld from the defendant. Sets forth trial procedures and directs the jury, or the court to return a special verdict setting forth its findings as to the existence or nonexistence of each aggravating and mitigating factor. Permits the imposition of the death penalty only where the jury or, where there is no jury, the court finds by a preponderance of the information that one or more of the aggravating factors exists and that none of the mitigating factors exists. Enumerates the mitigating and aggravating factors. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 844)
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1976
Toxic Substances Control Act - Declares that it is the policy of the United States that: (1) hazardous and potentially hazardous chemical substances and mixtures should be adequately tested with respect to their effect on health and the environment and that such testing should be the responsibility of those who manufacture and those who process such chemical substances and mixtures; (2) adequate authority should exist to regulate chemical substances and mixtures which cause or contribute to an unreasonable risk to health or the environment, and to take action with respect to chemical substances and mixtures which are imminent hazards; and (3) authority over chemical substances and mixtures should be exercised in such a manner as not unduly to impede, or to create unnecessary economic barriers to, technological innovation while fulfilling the primary purpose of this Act to assure that such innovation and commerce in such chemical substances and mixtures do not cause or contribute to an unreasonable risk to health or the environment. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to require that testing be conducted on a substance or mixture to develop data with respect to the health and environmental effects for which there is an insufficiency of data and experience and which are relevant to a determination that the manufacture, distribution in commerce, processing, use, or disposal of such substance or mixture does or does not cause or contribute to an unreasonable risk to health or the environment when he makes findings enumerated in this Act. Directs the Administrator to consider all relevant factors in promulgating rules under this Act, including the effect on the competitive position of the person required to provide reimbursement in relation to the persons to be reimbursed and the share of the market for such substance or mixture of the person required to provide reimbursement in relation to the share of such market of the persons to be reimbursed. Establishes a committee to make recommendations to the Administrator respecting the chemical substances and mixtures to which the Administrator should give priority consideration for the promulgation of a rule under this Act. Requires that in making such a determination with respect to any chemical substance or mixture, the committee shall consider all relevant factors, including: (1) the quantities in which the substance or mixture is or will be manufactured; (2) the quantities in which the substance or mixture enters the environment; (3) the number of persons who will be exposed to the substance or mixture in their places of employment and the duration of such exposure; (4) the extent of human exposure to the substance or mixture; (5) the extent to which the substance or mixture is closely related to a chemical substance or mixture which is known to cause or contribute to an unreasonable risk to health or the environment; and (6) the existence of data concerning the effects of the substance or mixture on health or the environment. Directs the Administrator to promulgate rules under which: (1) each person who manufactures or processes or proposes to manufacture or process a chemical substance shall maintain such records, and shall submit to the Administrator such reports, as the Administrator may reasonably require, and (2) each person who manufactures or processes or proposes to manufacture or process a mixture, or a chemical substance in small quantities (as defined by the Administrator by rule) solely for scientific experimentation or analysis or for chemical research or analysis, including such research or analysis for the development of a product, shall maintain records and submit to the Administrator reports but only to the extent the Administrator determines the maintenance of records or submission of reports, or both, is necessary for the effective enforcement of the Act. Requires the Administrator, in consultation and cooperation with the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare and with other heads of appropriate agencies, to conduct such research and monitoring as is necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act. Requires the Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare and other heads of appropriate agencies, to design, establish, and coordinate an efficient and effective system for the retrieval of toxicological and other scientific data which could be useful to the Administrator in carrying out the purposes of this Act. Requires systematized retrieval to be developed for use by all Federal and other agencies with responsibilities in the area of regulation or study of chemical substances and mixtures and their effect on health or the environment. Limits the disclosure of data gathered under provisions of this Act. Provides for the designation of confidential information. Prohibits any discrimination against an employee for compliance with requirements of this Act. States that no employer may discharge any employee or otherwise discriminate against any employee with respect to the employee's compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment because the employee (or any person acting pursuant to the request of the employee) has: (1) commenced, caused to be commenced, or is about to commence or cause to be commenced a proceeding under this Act; (2) testified or is about to testify in any such proceeding; or (3) assisted or participated or is about to assist or participate in any manner in such a proceeding or in any other action to carry out the purposes of this Act. Provides that any employee who believes that the employee has been discharged or otherwise discriminated against by any person in violation of such provisions may, within thirty days after such alleged violation occurs, file (or have any person file on the employee's behalf) a complaint with the Secretary of Labor. Provides that upon receipt of such a complaint, the Secretary shall conduct an investigation of the violation alleged in the complaint. Sets forth criminal and civil penalties for violations of provisions of this Act. Requires the Council on Environmental Quality, in consultation with the Administrator, the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, the Secretary of Commerce, and the heads of other appropriate Federal departments or agencies, to coordinate a study of the feasibility of establishing (1) a standard classification system for chemical substances and related substances, and (2) a standard means for storing and for obtaining rapid access to information respecting such substances. Requires a report on such study to be completed and submitted to Congress not later than eighteen months after the date of the enactment of this Act. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the people of Angola should be allowed to determine their own political future without foreign interference. Expresses support for efforts by the Organization of African Unity to achieve a settlement of the conflict in Angola. Calls upon all countries to terminate military assistance to any group in Angola. States that the President should do his utmost to seek an agreement among the various parties involved in hostilities or in the support of such hostilities in Angola to terminate such hostilities. Directs the President to refrain from providing assistance of any kind, for military activities in Angola, until specifically approved by Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1976
Amends the Impoundment Control Act of 1974 by requiring the President to transmit a special message to Congress before rescinding or reserving any part of any budget authority. Declares that no rescission shall become effective until Congress has acted on a bill effecting such rescission.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Extends appropriations authorized under the Library Services and Construction Act until September 30, 1981. Authorizes, for the purpose of making grants to States for library services, $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $110,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $130,000,000 for fiscal year ending 1979 and such sums as may be necessary for the fiscal years 1980, and 1981. Provides that for the purpose of making grants to States for public library construction there shall be authorized an appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for the period beginning July 1, ending September 30, 1976, and for fiscal years 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980 and 1981. 30, 1981. States that for the purpose of making grants to States to enable them to carry out interlibrary cooperation programs there shall be authorized an appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for the period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending September 30, 1976, $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1979, and such sums as may be necessary for fiscal years 1980, and 1981. Authorizes, for the same time periods such appropriations as may be necessary to enable the States to carry out public library service programs for older persons. Provides that administrative costs in connection with any program or activity carried out by any State under this Act shall be matched by such State from funds other than Federal funds.
United States · United States Congress · 16 December 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to make payments to State or local governments upon their election in an amount equal to 75 cents for each acre of specified categories of public land within the boundaries of the State or local political subdivision.
United States · United States Congress · 11 December 1975
District of Columbia Police and Fireman's Adjustment Act - Makes pay adjustments for the United States Park Police based on the Federal pay comparability system. Makes such adjustments effective on September 1, 1974. Provides for retroactive compensation for those individuals in the Park Police as of the date of enactment, and for other individuals in specified cases involving death or retirement. Adjusts periodic step increases for Park Police and the Executive Protective Service. Revises weekend, night differential, holiday overtime, and service longevity compensation. Establishes a five-member United States Park Police Retirement and Relief Board, members to be appointed, from time to time, by the Secretary of the Interior. Directs the Board to carry out the responsibilities of the Commissioner of the District of Columbia under the provisions of the Policemen and Firemen's Retirement and Disability Act, but only with respect to retirement and disability determination of officers and members of the United States Park Police and related functions. (Amends 5 U.S.C. 5301(c))
United States · United States Congress · 8 December 1975
Rehabilitation Act Amendments - Extends under the Rehabilitation Act, the authorization of appropriations for: (1) vocational rehabilitation services; (2) research and training; (3) grants for construction of rehabilitation facilities; (4) vocational training services for handicapped individuals; (5) special projects and demonstrations; (6) the National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults; (7) program and project evaluation; (8) secretarial responsibilities; and (9) the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board.
United States · United States Congress · 1 December 1975
Authorizes a deduction, under the Internal Revenue Code, to individuals with permanently handicapped children for amounts contributed to a trust fund which is to be used for the care and support of such child. Limits such deduction to the lesser of 10 percent of the adjusted gross income of the taxpayer, or $5000 in the case of a joint return. Specifies the type of trust which may meet the conditions of this Act. Defines terms used in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
Electric Utility Regulatory Reform Act - Title I: General Provisions - States that the purpose of this Act is to reform specified aspects of electric utility regulation. Defines terms as used in this Act. Title II: Utility Rate Reform - Requires all electric utilities to implement peak-load pricing. Prohibits unjustified differences in rates to different classes of consumers. Specifies that costs such as advertising and fines shall not be treated as operating costs by the utilities. Title III: Utility Planning and Siting Reform - Requires electric utilities to prepare long-range plans for power supply facilities which include site selection. Provides that the plan shall be submitted to the appropriate regulatory authorities and shall be made available to the public. Directs the Federal Energy Commission to establish annual target rates for electric energy growth. Calls for sharing of facilities by utilities. Titles IV: Reliability and Financial Aid to Utilities - Requires the Commission to establish reliability standards for the utilities. Provides for loan guarantees to utilities of no more than $200,000,000 with an overall limit of $2,000,000,000 in outstanding guarantees. Title V: Financial Assistance to State Regulatory Authorities - Authorizes the appropriation of $48,000,000 a year for grants to State regulatory authorities for specified purposes. Title VI: Federal Energy Commission - Establishes the Federal Electric Power Regulatory Commission to carry out the Federal functions under this Act and all functions of the Federal Power Commission. Terminates the Federal Power Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the President should, upon visiting the People's Republic of China, request that the Chinese officials use their good offices to obtain an accounting of members of the United States Armed Forces missing in action and confined as prisoners of war in Southeast Asia and of all American civilian personnel who are listed as missing in Southeast Asia. Requests that upon his return to the United States, the President should report back to the Congress on the results of his request.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
Provides that Members of the House of Representatives may hire for not more than six months in any fiscal year one Vietnam veteran as a Vietnam veteran congressional intern. Makes available $3,000 a year to each Member to be paid to such intern at a rate not to exceed $500 a month.
United States · United States Congress · 19 November 1975
Provides, under the Intercoastal Shipping Act, that commencing in 1976 a carrier may file a general increase in rates without suspension of that portion of such changed rates bringing about an increase of seven percent or less in its gross annual revenues. Requires the United States Maritime Commission to promulgate numerical guidelines as to common carrier rate of return on rate base and common equity which the Commission deems to be prima facie reasonable, as a means of assisting in insuring that the noncontiguous States, territories and possessions of the U.S. have efficient ocean transportation to and from the mainland.
United States · United States Congress · 13 November 1975
Revises the Domestic Volunteer Service Act to provide that developmentally disabled children receiving services under the foster grandparent program may continue to receive such services regardless of the age of such individual, if the continuation of such aid mutually benefits such individual and the volunteer. Provides that Federal funds may be expended for such program only if the child is being fully served in accordance with the Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 November 1975
Provides that buildings constructed for use by the United States Postal Service shall be designed and constructed in a manner making them accessible to the physically handicapped.
United States · United States Congress · 13 November 1975
Federal Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act - Prohibits the discharge of oil in harmful quantities (as determined by the President under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act), and assesses a civil fine of up to $10,000 against the owner, operator, of licensee of the discharging vessel. Prescribes criminal penalties for the failure of any person in charge of a vessel to notify the appropriate agency of the United States Government of such discharge. Directs the President to act to remove discharged oil unless he determines that such removal will be done properly and expeditiously by the owner or operator of the vessel, onshore or offshore facility, or deepwater port, from which the discharge accurs. Provides that all costs, including administrative, incurred by the President, Secretary, or any other Federal, State, or local official or agency, or any other person, of cleanup and other actions to minimize damages resulting from a discharge shall be borne by the owner and operator or licensee of the operation from which from which the discharge occurred (up to $150 per gross ton of the responsible vessel). Limits the liability of owners or operators of onshore and offshore facilitiies and licensees of deepwater ports to the following amounts: (1) $50,000,000, in the case of an onshore facility; (2) $50,000,000, in the case of an offshore facility; and (3) $100,000,000, in the case of a deepwater port. Establishes in the Department of Transportation an agency to be known as the Federal Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Administration to establish and maintain the Federal Oil Pollution Compensation Fund and to generally act as trustee of the natural resources of the marine environment. Authorizes disbursement of moneys from the Fund for payment of damages not actually compensated under this Act, cleanup costs, and research into methods to prevent, contain, and remove discharges. Provides that the Fund shall be provisioned through the levy and collection by the Administration of a 5-cent-per-barrel fee imposed on the owner of oil when the oil is transferred between: (1) a vessel and an onshore or offshore facility, (2) offshore or onshore facilities, or (3) a vessel and a deepwater port. States that each owner or operator of a vessel or an onshore or offshore facility and each licensee shall establish and maintain under rules and regulations prescribed by the Administrator, evidence of financial responsibility based on the tonnage of the vessel the capacity of the facility or deepwater port, and other relevant factors. Directs the Administrator to prescribe and from time to time to change regulations for the filing, processing, settlement, and adjudication of claims for cleanup costs and damages resulting from the discharge of oil. Provides for public access to information concerning any communication, document, report, or information transmitted between any official of the Federal Government and any person concerning liability and compensation for damage resulting from the discharge of oil. Authorizes appropriations for the administration of their Act for fiscal years 1976,1977, and 1978.
United States · United States Congress · 6 November 1975
Denies electric and gas public utilities a deduction under the Internal Revenue Code for amounts paid or incurred by such utilities to advertise or promote the sale or use of electricity or gas.
United States · United States Congress · 6 November 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the heads of other departments affected by this Act, to issue and revise regulations from time to time, relating to the trapping and capturing of animals and birds. Imposes a fine of $500 and/or imprisonment of up to one year for violations of this Act. Establishes an advisory commission of 7 members to consult with the Secretary and make recommendations with respect to regulations concerning trapping and capturing of animals and birds. Imposes a fine of $5,000 and/or imprisonment or of one year, for the sale, shipment, or transport, of any unapproved trap or any animal skin or hide or bird feathers taken in violation of this Act. Outlines those trapping regulations specifically applicable to Federal lands. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into cooperative agreements with any affected State pursuant to which the Secretary shall assist such State to enable it to comply with the provisions of this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
![Official portrait of Rep. Zeferetti, Leo C. [D-NY-15]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/z000002_200.jpg)