United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1976
Establishes a National Commission on Food Production, Processing, Marketing, and Pricing, to be composed of nine members. Directs the Commission to study and appraise the economic and industrial structure of all segments of the food industry, including: (1) economic forecasts; (2) desirable structural changes in the various segments of the food industry; and (3) the effect of food imports on producers, processors, and consumers in the United States. Requires the Commission to make such interim reports as it deems advisable, and to make a final report of its findings, recommendations, and conclusions to the President and the Congress by July 1, 1978. Sets forth the powers of the Commission. Requires that, within six months following the filing of the final report, the Federal Trade Commission, the Department of Justice, and the Department of Agriculture shall each publish separate reports on the policy planning, budget allotments, investigations, complaints, indictments, litigation, and other actions of each agency with respect to the enforcement of the antitrust laws on the various sectors of the food industry. Directs the FTC and the Department of Justice to submit to the Congress and to publish in the Federal Register annual indices of the structure and the state of competition in the food industry. Authorizes appropriations to the Commission of up to $3,750,000 to carry out the purposes of this Act. Authorizes appropriations of up to $1,000,000 to the Federal Trade Commission to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1976
Amends the Social Security Act to authorize payment under the medicare program for specified services performed by chiropracters, including X-ray, and physical examination, and related routine laboratory tests.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1976
Dissapproves the proposed deferral of budget authority (deferral numbered D 76-103) for construction grants to public schools in Indian reservation areas set forth in the special message transmitted by the President to the Congress on February 6, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 6 February 1976
Alaskan Natural Gas Pipeline Authorization Act - Expresses the intent of Congress that the Alaskan natural gas pipeline be constructed promptly, without further administrative or judicial delay or impediment. Declares that the most efficient and economical method available for the transportation of Alaskan natural gas is a pipeline system from northern Alaska, across Canada, to the lower forty-eight States. Directs the Federal Power Commission to issue all necessary permits and authorizations in order to expedite the construction and operation of such pipeline within 60 days of the date of enactment of this Act. Grants the holders of such permits the powers of eminent domain under the Natural Gas Act. Directs the Secretary of the Interior and other appropriate Federal officials to issue all necessary permits and to take appropriate action within 60 days to expedite the enforcement of all rights-of-way related to the construction and operation of such pipeline. Requires compliance with requirements of the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920 relating to rights-of-way for pipelines through Federal lands. Exempts such pipeline from requirements concerning (1) environmental protection, (2) technical and financial capacity of applicants, (3) public hearings, (4) licensing requirements for crude oil under the Export Administration Act of 1969, and (5) furnishing of specified information and reports. Authorizes the Secretary and the Commission to waive procedural requirements of Federal law where desirable to accomplish the purposes of this Act. Declares that (1) the actions of Federal officers and agencies under this Act and (2) the legal or factual sufficiency of any environmental statement relative to such pipeline under provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, shall not be subject to judicial review by the Courts. Allows for claims that (1) this Act is unconstitutional; (2) actions under this Act will deny Constitutional rights; and (3) actions taken are beyond the scope of authority conferred by this Act, provided that such claims are filed within sixty days following the date of the challenged action. Declares that exclusive jurisdiction shall be vested in the United States district courts, and that review of any final order shall be had only upon direct appeal to the United States Supreme Court. Declares that the district court shall not have the power to issue injunctive relief against the issuance of any certificate, except in cases where a final judgment is entered. Recognizes that approval by the Government of Canada is necessary in order to construct such pipeline. Declares it to be in the national interest of the United States to cooperate with Canada should such approval be forthcoming. Declares that authorizations issued pursuant to this Act shall grant no immunity from Federal antitrust laws.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1976
Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to furnish assistance for relief and rehabilitation of refugees and other needy people of Lebanon. Requires that such assistance be distributed, to the maximum extent practicable, under the auspices of the United Nations.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1976
Opportunities Industrialization Centers Job Creation and Training Act - States that the purpose of this Act is to provide special authority for the Opportunities Industrialization Centers in order to create and provide job opportunities for specific unemployed persons who were particularly hard hit by the recent economic recession, and to provide opportunities for industry to create additional jobs for the unemployed in rural and urban communities. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to enter into a contract with Opportunities Industrialization Centers, Incorporated (OIC) in order to provide comprehensive employment services and jobs for unemployed persons. Requires each such contract to contain provisions assuring that specific requirements are complied with, including requirements that (1) special consideration in providing jobs will be given to unemployed persons who are most severely disadvantaged in terms of the length of time they have been unemployed; (2) due consideration will be given to persons who have participated in manpower training programs for whom unemployment opportunities would be otherwise unavailable, and (3) the program will to the maximum extent feasible contribute to the elimination of artificial barriers to employment and occupational advancement. Sets forth special conditions to be met prior to providing financial assistance pursuant to a contract entered into under this Act. Requires the programs to contribute, to the maximum extent feasible, to the occupational development or upward mobility of individual participants. Prohibits the Secretary from providing financial assistance unless he determines that: (1) periodic reports will be submitted to him to measure the effectiveness of the programs; (2) there will be no discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, political affiliation, or beliefs within the program, and (3) the participants in the program will not be employed in the construction, operation, or maintenance of sectarian religious facilities. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act of $150,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $200,0000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $300,000,000 for fiscal year 1979, and $350,000,000 for fiscal year 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1976
Bicentennial Commission on Presidential Nominations Resolution - Establishes a twenty member Bicentennial Commission on Presidential Nominations. Provides that the Commission shall make a full and complete investigation with respect to the Presidential nominating process. Directs that such investigation shall include consideration of (1) the manner in which States conduct primaries; (2) State laws and the rules of national political parties which govern the participation of voters and candidates in such primaries; (3) the financing of campaigns for the nomination of candidates for election to the office of the President of the United States; (4) the relationship between candidates for election to the office of the President of the United States and the news media; (5) alternative nominating systems; and (6) the manner in which candidates are nominated for election to the office of Vice President of the United States. Requires the Commission to submit to the President and the Congress such interim reports as it deems advisable, and a final report not later than one year after the enactment of this resolution. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1976
Government Economy and Spending Reform Act - Title I: Authorizations of New Budget Authority - Terminates on specified dates budget authority for all Government programs except health care services, general retirement and disability insurance, and Federal employee retirement and disability programs which are funded by trust funds. Declares out of order in either the Senate or the House of Representatives any legislation which authorizes new budget authority not in compliance with this Act. Requires the Committees on Appropriations and the Committees on the Budget of both Houses of Congress to identify each program's functional and subfunctional category (as so characterized in the Budget of the United States, Fiscal Year 1977, transmitted to Congress by the President on January 21, 1976), the committees having legislative jurisdiction over such program, and whether such program operates under permanent authorizations and budget authority. Makes the budget termination provisions of this Act effective on the first day of the Ninety-fifth Congress. Title II: Early Elimination of Inactive and Duplicate Programs - Requires the Comptroller General of the United States to identify for Congress any programs which have duplicate objectives or for which no outlays have been made for the last two fiscal years. Directs the standing committees of both Houses to consider such programs and report recommendations on such programs before March 15, 1978, if possible. Title III: Quadrennial Program Review and Evaluation - Sets forth a timetable for reviewing the budget of a Government program. Requires review by standing committees of the Congress every four years of each program's cost, effectiveness, and the extent to which such program duplicates or is similar to any other program. States that such review shall include a comprehensive evaluation of the merits of such program to determine if it warrants continuation. Requires justification of any recommendation to fund any program which has objectives similar to or the same as another program's objectives. Directs the Comptroller General and the Congressional Budget Office to provide Congress with information and analysis of programs being reviewed under this Act. Requires the President to similarly review the merits of continuing programs contained in annual Budget and to report the finding of such review prior to transmitting the Budget to Congress. Title IV: Continuing Review and Evaluation - Directs the Comptroller General to report to Congress the result of any audit which shows a substantial deficiency in achievement of the objectives of any Government program. Requires subsequent audits, a report of which must be submitted to Congress, to determine if such deficiency has been eliminated. Title V: Miscellaneous - States that those provisions of this Act which direct the operation of either House are enacted as an exercise of the rulemaking power of such House and recognizes the right of either House to change such rules.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1976
Authorizes the President to issue a proclamation designating the week beginning May 9, 1976, as "National Small Business Week", in recognition of the achievements and contributions which small and independent family-farmers and business men and women have made to American society.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1976
National Diabetes Advisory Board Act - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish a National Diabetes Advisory Board to insure the implementation of the long-range plan formulated by the National Commission on Diabetes to combat diabetes. Specifies seven Federal health officers as members of the Board, in addition to seven health professionals and five members of the general public to be appointed by the Secretary. Makes provision for staffing and compensation. Authorizes the Board to enter into contracts or other arrangements, or to take such other action as may be necessary to carry out its functions. Authorizes the Board to engage in and sponsor activities, collect data, and provide technical assistance as it deems necessary and advisable in the performance of its functions. Requires the Board to submit simultaneously to the President and Congress an Annual Diabetes Report describing Board activities in the prior year and progress made in diabetes research, treatment, and education with specific reference to the long-range plan to combat diabetes mellitus and suggesting recommended future expenditures and legislation. Authorizes the appropriation of $500,000 for fiscal year 1976 and such sums as necessary for each of the four fiscal years thereafter. Authorizes the Secretary to make distinguished scientist awards to individual scientists who have shown continuous and outstanding productivity in diabetes research for the purpose of continuing such research. Limits the amount of each grant to no more than $35,000 per year. Authorizes the appropriation of specified amounts for the purpose of making such grants in fiscal years 1976-1980. Authorizes, under the Public Health Service Act, the appropriation of specified sums in fiscal years 1977-1981 for the purpose of making grants to centers for research and training in diabetes mellitus and related endocrine and metabolic disorders.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1976
National Center for Women Act - Establishes a National Center for Women as an independent agency of the Executive branch: (1) to review and coordinate Federal programs to insure equal opportunity for women; (2) to serve as a clearinghouse for information on public programs and legislation of interest to women; and (3) to recommend to the President and Congress proposals to improve the status of women. Directs the establishment of a National Board of Advisors within such Center, which members shall be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Directs the Board of Advisors to maintain effective liaison with public agencies and other organizations concerned with the status of women. Transfers to the Administrator of such Center the functions of: (1) the National Commission on the Observance of International Women's Year; (2) the Citizen's Advisory Council on the Status of Women established under Executive Order 11126; (3) the interdepartmental Committee on the Status of Women established under Executive Order 11126; (4) the Women's Bureau of the Department of Labor; (5) the Women's Action Program of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare; and (6) the Women's Rights Program Unit of the Civil Rights Commission. Creates within the Center an Intergovernmental Task Force on the representatives of specified executive departments and independent regulatory agencies. Directs such Task Force to assist in the evaluation and coordination of Federal programs for women and to develop procedures to insure equal rights to women within Federal agencies. Directs each Federal agency to review regulations, policies, and procedures of its programs to assure full participation and equal opportunity for women.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1976
Commodity Supplemental Food Program Act - Revises the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to require the Secretary of Agriculture to pay to each State or local agency administering any commodity supplemental food program referred to as a supplemental feeding program under the Agriculture and Consumer Protection Act of 1973, the administrative costs for such program in an amount not exceeding 20 percent of the total amount made available to such State or agency for such program in any fiscal year. States that, notwithstanding this limitation, the Secretary shall pay the total expenses necessary for successful operation of such program during the first 90 days after enactment of this Act or until the commodity supplemental food program reaches its projected caseload level, whichever is longer. Directs each State or local agency participating in such program to submit a report to the Secretary describing the manner in which nutrition education services are being provided to the recipients of food under such program. States that the payment of administrative expenses by the Secretary shall not be conditioned upon the submission of such report. Requires the maintenance in such programs of the types and varieties of commodities in the same proportional amounts which are currently available or which were available in the the 1974 fiscal year, whichever is greater. Directs the Secretary to require that specified foods be made available to recipients under such program. Allows such program to exist in the same area in which another food program is in operation if the State or local agency establishes safeguards to prevent households and individuals from participating in both programs. Prevents any State or local agency from prohibiting children under six years of age from receiving benefits under such programs if they are otherwise eligible to receive such benefits.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1976
Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to pay a specified sum to innocent victims of the occupation of Wounded Knee, South Dakota, in full settlement of their claims against the United States for loss of life, personal injuries, and damages to their real and personal property which occurred between February 27, 1973, and May 8, 1973.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1976
Postal Reorganization Act Amendments - Authorizes appropriations for the United States Postal Service for fiscal year 1976. Requires the Postal Service, in requesting the appropriation of funds authorized under this Act, to submit specified information to the appropriate congressional committees. Directs that all revenues and fees collected by the Postal Service be deposited in the general fund of the Treasury of the United States. Directs the Postal Service to provide door or curbline delivery to all permanent residential addresses during any fiscal year for which the Congress has appropriated all of the funds authorized to be appropriated to the Service. Allows cluster box delivery service in lieu of door or curbline service where the appropriate unit of local government has approved the provision of cluster box service. Requires the President to appoint members of the Postal Rate Commission, with the advice and consent of the Senate. Increases to ten months the time limit for recommended decisions by the Commission on requests submitted by the Postal Service for alteration of rates, fees or mail classifications. Revises criteria regarding maximum temporary rates and fees established by the Postal Service where the Commission exceeds such time limit. Allows temporary changes in rates, fees, and mail classification to remain in effect up to 150 days after the Commission transmits its recommended decision to the Postal Service. Includes among the factors to be considered by the Commission in making a recommended decision on a request for changes in rates, fees, or service the educational, cultural, scientific, and informational value to the recipient of mail matter. Stipulates that final Commission action pertaining to rate and service complaints and to requested rate, service, and mail classification changes shall be taken by a vote of the majority of the Commissioners. Requires the Postal Service to keep the Commission fully and currently informed with respect to the operation of the Postal Service. Empowers the Commission to initiate reviews and hearings relating to the activities of the Board of Governors and the Postal Service in connection with the fixing of postal rates and mail classifications. Includes within periodical publication, as that term is used in defining second-class mail: (1) catalogs and course material which are part of post bar admission education; and (2) looseleaf pages or reports which are part of a reporting service concerning developments in the law or public policy. Redefines "qualified nonprofit organization", "agricultural", and "agricultural organizations", for purposes of preferential postal rates. Qualifies specified State conservation publication for such rates. Permits any member of a private nonprofit organization (other than a political committee) to deposit any mailable matter relating to the activities or functions of such organization in any letterbox, postage free if: (1) such member engages in such activity on a voluntary basis without reimbursement from such organization; and (2) such organization has obtained written approval to engage in such activity from the postmaster for the district in which such activity is to be conducted. Authorizes appointment of the Postmaster General and Deputy Postmaster General by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Establishes the Commission on Postal Service. Directs the Commission: (1) to study the public service functions of the Postal Service and recommend to what extent and by what means such functions may be defined and costs thereof reasonably estimated; (2) to identify any difference between the costs that the Postal Service should reasonably expect to incur in providing services in accordance with codified policy directives and the revenues that the Postal Service may reasonably be expected to receive from rates and fees for such services; and (3) to determine, the extent to which the public service functions of the Postal Service should be supported by appropriations. Instructs the Commission to study present ratemaking procedures and develop recommendation's for more expeditious and economical procedure, and to determine the causes of the increases in postal costs that have occurred since the enactment of the Postal Reorganization Act. Requires all proceedings of the Commission to be open to the chairman of the appropriate Congressional committees or their designees and notice of such proceedings to be given to such chairmen or designees. Requires the Commission to transmit to the President and to each House of the Congress detailed interim progress reports four times annually, and a final report containing a detailed statement of its findings and recommendations, together with any individual views, within two years after the date of the enactment of this Act. Terminates the Commission's existence 60 days after the transmission of its final report. Requires that expenses incurred by the Commission be paid out of the Postal Service Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1976
Authorizes the payment of compensation at a rate of $3,000 for each person who suffered wounds or other bodily injury in the massacre of Sioux Indians at Wounded Knee Creek on December 29, 1880. Provides for a payment to any injured individual or to the heirs of any such injured individual. Authorizes the payment of $3,000 for each Sioux Indian man, woman, or child who died in such massacre to be paid to the heirs of such deceased Indian. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to report to the Congress on the Indians killed or wounded at such massacre.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1976
Disapproves the proposed deferral of budget authority (Deferral D/76-97) for Indian health facilities set forth in the special messages transmitted by the President to the Congress on January 23, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1976
Increases the estate tax exemption under the Internal Revenue Code from $60,000 to $200,000 of the value of the gross estate. Increases the limitation on the aggregate marital deduction to 50 percent of the adjusted gross value of the estate, plus $100,000. Allows an executor to value farmland, woodland, and scenic open land at its current use value rather than at its fair market value.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1976
Declares that restraints on accurate prescription drug price disclosure are contrary to the public interest and that there is a need for a system of adequate price disclosure of prescription drugs. Expresses the sense of the Senate that the following practices are unfair trade practices within the meaning of the Federal Trade Commission Act: (1) restrictions on the disclosure by any retail seller of accurate price information regarding prescription drugs; (2) the failure of any retail seller to disclose adequate retail price information when requested of him; and (3) restrictions on the disclosure of adequate price information by any means of public communication.
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1976
Honors Clarence M. Mitchell, Junior, for his contributions to the establishment of justice and equality in America. Expresses gratitude for his efforts to improve the quality of life for all Americans.
United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1976
Energy Research and Development Free Enterprise Act - Title I: Findings, Definitions, and General Provisions - Declares that it is the policy of the Congress that small business concerns and individual inventors should be provided greater opportunities by the Federal Government in the development of energy resources and technology, with special emphasis on solar energy technology and to expand competition and reduce concentration in the energy industries of the Nation. Amends the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974 and the Federal Nonnuclear Energy Research and Development Act of 1974 to offer increased opportunities in Federal energy development programs to small business concerns and individual inventors. Title II: Energy Program Reorganization - Amends the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974 to establish within the Energy Research and Development Administration five additional Assistant Administrators for: (1) small business concerns and individual inventors; (2) planning and analysis; (3) laboratory and field coordination; (4) administration; and (5) international officers. Requires that no less than 50 percent of the total amount of funds for solar energy technology programs and no less than 20 percent of the total amount of funds for all areas of energy technology be made available to small business concerns and individual inventors. Limits the awarding of energy program contracts in situations where the financial capabilities of non-Federal entities are inadequate to develop such technology without Federal assistance. Authorizes appropriations of $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1976 and each fiscal year thereafter to the Administrator of the Small Business Administration in order to provide consultation services for the preparation of contract proposals by small businesses and individual inventors. Title III: Encouragement of Competition in Energy Programs - Directs the Administrators of the Energy Research and Development and the Small Business Administrations to provide detailed information to potential participants in energy programs. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to refrain from awarding contracts which will have an adverse impact on industry or market competition. Directs the Attorney General and the Federal Trade Commission to recommend criteria to the Administration upon which to make such a determination. Prohibits the entering into of any energy contract to any person who has an interest in delaying completion of the contract or altering any research findings in the performance of such contract. Requires the Administrator to transmit to the Attorney General a copy of the proposed contract if the profitmaking enterprise has gross assets exceeding $250,000,000. Prohibits the Administrator from awarding a contract to such an enterprise until the Attorney General's opinion is received. Establishes procedures and requirements for the disclosure of information relating to the awarding of contracts by the Administrator and by program participants. Imposes a fine of $20,000, or the amount of the contract, whichever is greater; and/or imprisonment of up to two years for participants who transmit false, fictitious, or fradulent information.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 1975
Siletz Restoration Act - Terminates Federal supervision over the property and members of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians of Oregon. Extends to the Siletz Indians Federal recognition as a sovereign Indian tribe. Restores to the Siletz Indians those Federal services and benefits furnished to federally recognized American tribes. Declares that the membership roll of the tribe published in the Federal Register on July 12, 1956, is open. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to make current such roll including all persons entitled to be in the roll of July 12, 1956, but were not and any descendent of an enrollee who possesses at least one-fourth degree of Siletz Indian blood. Establishes procedures for the election of a Siletz Interim Council which shall act as the interim tribal governing body until the election of tribal officers. Declares that such Council shall draft a constitution and by-laws for the tribe to be voted on by those on the current membership roll. States that within 120 days of the adoption of such constitution the Council shall conduct an election by secret ballot to determine those individuals who will serve as tribal officers as provided by the constitution. Directs the Secretary to negotiate with the Siletz Interim Council to develop a plan for the assumption of land and other assets of the tribe and to submit such plan to Congress. Provides that if neither House of Congress has passed a resolution of disapproval within 60 days the Secretary shall accept such land and other assets of the tribe pursuant to such plan. Subjects all land and assets so transferred to any valid existing rights including any outstanding taxes, liens, mortgages or any other obligation. Provides that such lands and assets are subject to foreclosure or sale pursuant to the terms of any valid existing obligation in accordance with the laws of Oregon. Declares that the land transferred shall be held in trust for the tribe and shall be their reservation. Exempts such transfers of land and other assets from all local, state and Federal taxation. Authorizes the Secretary to make such rules and regulations as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. Authorizes such appropriations as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 1975
Food Industry Antitrust Reports Act - Directs the Federal Trade Commission, the Department of Justice, and the Department of Agriculture to submit to the appropriate House and Senate committees a report on actions with respect to the enforcement of the antitrust laws in the various sectors of the food industry. Requires that such report be made not later than six months after the date of enactment of this Act, and yearly thereafter. Provides that no later than five years after the enactment of this Act, the Commission shall submit to the Congress a comprehensive report on the market structure and State of competition in the food industries. Requires the Commission and the Department of Justice to provide to the Congress an analysis of the adequacy of available data on which any study is based. Authorizes the appropriation to the Commission of $1,000,000 for each of the next five fiscal years.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 1975
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President should call upon all nations to withhold support from all of the combatants in Angola. Provides that the President should urge the Organization of African Unity to mediate the dispute. Urges the President to curtail exports and impose economic sanctions against countries which persist in intervening in the conflict in Angola.
United States · United States Congress · 12 December 1975
Revises the Indian Claims Commission Act to authorize, notwithstanding the defense of res judicata, the Court of Claims in the case of United States against Sioux Nation of Indians to decide on the merits whether the Act of February 28, 1877, effected a taking of the Black Hills portion of the Great Sioux Reservation in violation of the fifth amendment.
United States · United States Congress · 12 December 1975
Provides for non-unanimous jury verdicts of five-sixths in the trial of civil actions, before a court of the United States, unless the parties stipulate to a majority of less than five-sixths. (Adds 28 U.S.C. 1875)
United States · United States Congress · 9 December 1975
Modifies the Rivers and Harbors Act to include such bank stabilization works in the region of the Missouri River between Fort Randall Dam and Sioux City, Iowa, as in the discretion of the Chief of Engineers, with the concurrence of the Nebraska and South Dakota Governors, are necessary.
United States · United States Congress · 9 December 1975
Disapproves the proposed deferral of budget authority (Deferral numbered 76-70) for the agricultural conservation program, Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service, United States Department of Agriculture.
United States · United States Congress · 5 December 1975
Authorizes a reduction in the retired or retirement pay of retired officers of the uniformed services who are employed by the Federal Government at a salary of at least $36,000 annually. (Amends 5 U.S.C. 5532)
United States · United States Congress · 2 December 1975
Separation of Powers Revitalization Act - Establishes an Office of Congressional Legal Counsel to represent the legislative branch of the Government in cases involving powers and responsibilities of the legislative branch. Provides that the term of office of the Counsel shall expire at the end of the Congress following the Congress during which such person is appointed except that before such time Congress may remove such person for misconduct, incapacity, or incompetence. Requires that the Counsel shall not have been a holder of or a candidate for any elected local, State, or Federal Government office for five years prior to appointment as Counsel. Requires that for five years after such an appointment such person must refrain from lobbying in Congress. Requires the Counsel, upon the request of either House of Congress, to defend or bring a civil action on behalf of such House, any joint committee, office, or agency of Congress, any committee or subcommittee of such House, a Member of such House or any office, officer, employee or agency of such House. Provides that such defense be made whenever the validity of any proceeding or action taken by such named defendants is challenged. Provides that civil action may be brought without regard to the sum or value of the matter in controversy, in any court of the United States to require an officer or employee of the executive branch of the Government to act in accordance with the Constitution and laws of the United States; or to secure a declaratory judgement concerning the validity of any subpena directed to Congress, or such House, joint committee, committee, subcommittee, Member, officer, employee, office, or agency. Requires the Counsel to intervene or appear as amicus curiae in any legal action in any court of the United States or of a State or political subdivision of a State in specified instances. Authorizes the Counsel to intervene or appear as amicus curiae in such action as he determines is necessary to carry out the functions of the Counsel's office unless such intervention or appearance is disapproved by Congress as provided by this Act. Requires the Counsel to advise the Congress in legal matters. Sets forth the procedures by which the Congress or a Member of Congress may request that action be taken by the Counsel. Relieves the Attorney General of responsibility of, and authority for, any action undertaken by the Counsel except when the Attorney General is requested by either House of Congress or by the Counsel to retain responsibility, or where the Counsel appears as an intervenor or amicus curiae. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
Authorizes, under the Administrative Procedure Act, the awarding of reasonable attorney fees and other expenses for participation in proceedings before Federal regulatory agencies. Sets forth criteria governing the awarding of fees and expenses. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as are necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
Directs the Federal courts to consider, in their determinations of the imposition of terms of imprisonment for criminal offenses, the following factors: (1) the nature and circumstances of the offense and the history and charactertics of the defendant; (2) the need for the sentence imposed to reflect the seriousness of the offense and the providing of adequate deterrence to criminal conduct; (3) whether other less restrictive sanctions have been applied to the defendant frequently or recently; and (4) any sentencing guidelines established by the Commission established under this Act. Establishes a United States Commission on Sentencing as an independent commission within the judicial branch of the United States Government. Provides for a membership of such Commission of five members appointed by the United States Judicial Conference. Directs such Commission to promulgate and distribute to all Federal courts guidelines for sentencing consistant with this Act. Empowers the Commission to establish general policies and rules necessary to carry out this Act. Empowers the Commission to utilize the services and information of other Federal, State, local and private agencies with or without reimbursement therefor. Empowers the Commission to establish a research and development program for the purpose of: (1) serving as a clearinghouse and information center for the collection, preparation, and dissemination of information on Federal sentencing practices; and (2) assisting and serving in a consulting capacity to Federal courts, departments, and agencies in the development, maintenance, and coordination of sound sentencing practices. Empowers the Commission to devise and conduct a training program of short-term instruction in sentencing techniques for judicial and probation personnel and other persons connected with the sentencing process. Requires the Commission to report annually to the Congress, the Judicial Conference, and the President on its activities.
United States · United States Congress · 17 November 1975
Regulatory Agency Responsibility Act - Title I: Abolition of Unnecessary Agencies - States that the purpose of this Act is to abolish specified Federal regulatory agencies which have failed to promote the public welfare and to provide for the automatic termination of new agencies established after the enactment of this Act which fail to accomplish the purposes for which they were established. Abolishes each Federal regulatory agency as of October 1, 1976, unless: (1) the President recommends its continuance; (2) the relevant Congressional committees conduct an investigation of its effectiveness; and (3) the Congress adopts a concurrent resolution disapproving the abolition of the agency or agencies. Provides for the automatic termination of the remaining Federal agencies after 7 years unless the President and Congress take action to disapprove such abolition. Sets forth procedures for the automatic termination of new regulatory agencies established after the date of enactment of this Act after 15 years unless the President and Congress disapprove. Provides for an orderly transfer of essential functions of the abolished agencies to successor agencies. Stipulates that Congress must approve such plan before it may take effect. States that the orders, rules, certificates, and licenses which have been promulgated by an abolished agency shall continue in effect according to their terms until modified, terminated, or repealed by the President, the head of a designated successor agency or by any court of competent jurisdiction, or by operation of law. Title II: Budget Requests and Legislative Recommendations - Reports to the Congress - Requires specified agencies to submit all legislative recommendations to the Congress as well as to the President.
United States · United States Congress · 17 November 1975
Nuclear Weapons Sufficiency Act - Directs the Energy Research and Development Administration to cease the purchase and production of fissionable nuclear materials for use in weapons. Directs the Secretary of Defense to report to the Congress on the number and potential explosive yield of nuclear weapons currently possessed by the United States; and the amount of weapons-grade fissionable nuclear material now possessed by the United States. Requires congressional review of any increase in such number, potential explosive yield or amount.
United States · United States Congress · 10 November 1975
Veterans and Survivors Pension Reform Act - Title I: Reform of the Non-Service-Connected Pension Program for Veterans and Their Survivors - Creates a pension system within the Veterans' Administration applicable to all veterans, widows of veterans, and dependent parents who, subsequent to October 1, 1976, are or become eligible for a Veterans' Administration non-service-connected pension. Provides for a restructuring of the need-based pension program of the Veterans' Administration. Provides for a level of income for veterans and their survivors which is above the minimum subsistence level. Establishes a basic minimum level of income for all eligible veterans and dependents at $2,700 for single pensioners and $3,900 for pensioners with dependents. Provides for a method of computing a pension for those veterans with little or no income. Title II: Adjustments in Current Statutory Pension Provisions - Defines terms used in this Act. Revises the catagories of spouse, widow, and surviving spouse for purposes of the changes in rates in this Act. Presents a schedule by month for such rates. Title III: Reform of Dependency and Indemnity Compensation for Parents - Revises the schedule for determining dependency and indemnity compensation rates under the Veterans' Administration. Title IV: Adjustments in Current Statutory Provisions Relating to Dependency and Indemnity Compensation for Parents - Sets forth schedules for the payment of monthly dependency and indemnification compensation to the parents of veterans. Title V: Miscellaneous and Effective Dates - Makes the effective date of this Act October 1, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 6 November 1975
Indian Postsecondary Educational Assistance Act - Makes it the purpose of this Act to provide grants for the development and improvement of Indian community colleges designed to insure continued and expanded opportunities for Indian students in postsecondary study. Authorizes the Commissioner of Education to make grants to Indian community colleges up to September 30, 1981. Specifies the uses of funds granted under this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of $75,000,000 without fiscal year limitation through fiscal year 1981 to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 November 1975
National Consumer Cooperative Bank Act - Title I: National Consumer Cooperative Bank - Sets forth the findings of Congress that there is a need for the establishment of a National Consumer Cooperative Bank and a Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration which will make available necessary financial and technical assistance to cooperative self-help endeavors as a means of strengthening the Nation's economy. Establishes the National Consumer Cooperative Bank. States that the Bank shall: (1) encourage the development of new and existing cooperatives eligible for its assistance by providing specialized credit and technical assistance; (2) maintain broad-based control of the Bank by its voting stockholders; (3) encourage broad-based ownership, control and active participation by members in eligible cooperatives; (4) assure that the net savings from its operations and the operations of borrowers from the Bank, are made available or accounted for to the stockholders or members of the cooperative organization; and (5) assist in improving the quality and availability of goods and services to consumers. Authorizes the creation of no less than four nor more than twelve corporate regional banks. States that the Bank shall have the power to make and service loans, commitments for credit, guarantees, furnish financially related services, technical assistance, and issue obligations. Enumerates additional powers necessary to carry out its powers and duties under this Act. Authorizes appropriations of $250,000,000 per year for the United States to purchase class A preferred stock of the Bank. Requires the Bank to hold an annual meeting of stockholders. Permits the Bank to obtain funds through the public or private sale of its bonds, debentures, notes, and other evidences of indebtedness. Authorizes the Bank to make loans to eligible organizations which shall be repayable in not more than forty years. States that the objective of the Bank shall be to provide the the type of credit needed by eligible borrowers, at the lowest reasonable cost on a sound business basis, taking into account the cost of money to the Bank. Defines "eligible cooperatives" for purposes of assistance under this title as an organization chartered or operated on a cooperative, not for profit basis for producing or furnishing goods, services, facilities, or financing, primarily for the benefit of its members or voting stockholders who are ultimate consumers, if it meets specified criteria, or any other institution chartered or operated in such a way as to enhance competitive market forces or to reduce the price spread between producers and the ultimate consumers of products or services. Title II: Self-Help Development Fund - Establishes in the Treasury a Consumer Cooperative Self-Help Development Fund. Authorizes appropriations of $250,000,000 to be deposited in the Fund. Permits the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration to make a capital investment advance out of the Fund to any eligible cooperative if the Administration determines that the applicant's initial or supplemental capital requirements exceed its ability to obtain a Title I loan from the Bank or other sources, and the membership of the applicant consists substantially of low-income persons. Title III: Cooperative Technical Assistance - Directs the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration to make available information and services concerning the organization or reorganization of cooperatives to best achieve the objectives of this Act and to best provide the means through which various types of goods, services, and facilities can be made available to members and patrons. States that such assistance may include investigations, surveys, and director and management training and assistance. Authorizes appropriations to the Administration of sums necessary for the administration of this title. Title IV: The Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration and General Provisions - Establishes the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration. Directs the Administration to assure that the objectives of this Act are carried out. States that until the stock of the Bank held by the United States has been fully retired the Bank shall be exempt from any form of taxation. Requires the Administration and the Board to report annually to the appropriate committee of Congress on the activities of the Administration and on the Bank's capital, operations, financial condition, the self-help development fund, and to make recommendations for legistation to improve its services. Authorizes appropriations of sums necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act, in addition to appropriations specifically authorized.
United States · United States Congress · 4 November 1975
Farmer-to-Consumer Direct Marketing Act - States that it is the purpose of this Act to foster and promote, through appropriate means and on an economically sustainable basis, the development and expansion of both traditional and innovative approaches to direct marketing of agricultural commodities from farmers to consumers. States that for purposes of this Act, the term "direct marketing from farmers to consumers" means the marketing of agricultural commodities at any marketplace (including, but not limited to, roadside stands, city markets, and vehicles used for house-to-house marketing of agricultural commodities) established and maintained for the purpose of enabling farmers to sell their agricultural commodities directly to individual consumers, or organizations respresenting consumers. Directs the Extension Service of the Department of Agriculture to conduct and facilitate activities designed to foster methods of direct marketing from farmers to consumers. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 November 1975
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the current violence in Lebanon is deplorable. Disapproves any unilateral intervention of any nation in the conflict. Declares that the United States should provide, through the United Nations, on request of the Government of Lebanon, humanitarian aid.
United States · United States Congress · 30 October 1975
Young Farmers' Homestead Act - Establishes as an agency within the Department of Agriculture the Federal Farm Assistance Corporation. Authorizies the Corporation to purchase farm land in value of up to $200,000 per unit. Provides that the Corporation shall make such farms available for lease and subsequently for sale. Directs that the farms may be leased to an eligible applicant for a period of not less than two years nor more than seven years with specified restrictions upon the use of such land. Provides that the lessee may at any time within six months prior to the expiration of his lease make application to the board for purchase of such unit upon the expiration of such lease. States that the board shall approve such application if it determines that the lessee can successfully manage and operate such farm unit. Specifies a formula to be used in determining the selling price of each farm. Provides that a buyer may obtain financing through any available source, but if private financing is not available, the Farmers Home Administration shall furnish the financing at a specified rate. Requires the Corporation to file annually with the Secretary of Agriculture a complete report as to the business of the Corporation. Provides that the financial transactions of the Corporation shall be audited at least once each year by the General Accounting Office. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to appoint an advisory council to advise the board regarding the administration of this Act. Provides that the Council's advice shall include recommendations on what the eligibility requirements should be for leasing farm units and what experience should be required for leasing a farm. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to carry out this Act. Specifies criminal provisions applicable to the Federal Farm Assistance Corporation. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 657, 658, 1006, and 1014)
United States · United States Congress · 30 October 1975
Dairy and Meat Import Inspection and Identification Act - Establishes labeling and sanitation requirements for imported meat and dairy products. Title I: Dairy Products - Defines terms as used in this title. Directs that no dairy products shall be imported into the United States unless the Secretary of Agriculture first certifies that such products are wholesome and pure. Requires the Secretary to establish standards comparable to standards imposed upon domestic dairy products. Provides that such imports must comply with United States packaging and labeling requirements. Requires that the package or container of any food product made in whole or in part of imported dairy products shall be labeled "imported" or "imported in part". Establishes criminal penalties for violation of the requirements of this Act. Title II: Meat and Meat Products - Imposes the same labeling requirements on meat products as those imposed by title I of this Act. Requires that such products meet the same health standards as imposed upon domestically produced meats. Requires that inspectors employed by the Department of Agriculture supervise the testing of imported meats. Directs that periodic tests of imported meats shall be conducted in the United States by the Department of Agriculture.
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1975
Provides that members of the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin shall be considered Indians for which hospital and medical care was being provided by or at the expense of the Public Health Service since August 16, 1957, for purposes of any legislation.
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to make financial assistance available to agricultural producers who suffer losses as the result of having their agricultural commodities or livestock quarantined or condemned because such commodities or livestock have been found to contain toxic chemicals dangerous to the public health. Directs that the amount of each such loan shall be limited to $100,000. Provides that such loans shall not be available to any producer who has been fully compensated for the loss for which the loan is requested. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 21 October 1975
Displaced Homemakers Equal Opportunity Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish a maximum of 30 model program centers for outreach, counseling, information and referral, and other services for displaced homemakers, with at least 2 such centers in each of the 10 Federal geographic service regions of the United States. Directs the Secretary to: (1) conduct an evaluation and study of the model program centers established by this Act; and (2) conduct a feasibility study with respect to participation by displaced homemakers in specified employment, unemployment, education, and health service programs. Authorizes to be appropriated specified sums for each of fiscal years 1976 and 1977 to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 October 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to construct, operate, and maintain the Pollock-Herreid Unit, South Dakota pumping division, Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin program, South Dakota. Prohibits for a period of ten years the diverting of any water from the unit authorized by this Act to any water user for the production on newly irrigated lands of any basic agricultural commodity, if the supply of such commodity is in excess of the normal supply. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to determine the interest rate used during the construction, and on the unpaid balance of the interest bearing reimbursable costs to the unit. Authorizes to be appropriated for the construction of the Pollock-Herreid Unit $25,000,000 adjusted by any change in cost indexes.
![Official portrait of Sen. Abourezk, James [D-SD]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/a000017_200.jpg)