United States · United States Congress · 20 February 1975
Stipulates that in conducting the decennial census the Secretary of Commerce shall require information to be furnished only with respect to the following items: (1) name and address; (2) relationship to head of household; (3) sex; (4) date of birth; (5) race or color; and (6) visitors in the home at the time of the census. (Adds 13 U.S.C. 141 (c)) Provides that refusal or neglect to furnish information not within such categories shall not be an offense. (Amends (3 U.S.C. 22 (a))
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1975
MHD (Magnetohydrodynamics) Research, Development, and Demonstration Act - Declares that Congress finds that MHD electricity generation will help eliminate the dependence of the United States upon foreign energy sources. Declares it to be the policy of the Federal Government to pursue a program of research and development of MHD as a major source of energy and to provide for the development and demonstration of practicable means to employ MHD on a commercial scale. Declares that the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration shall have responsibility for such research, development and demonstration program. Directs the Administrator to initiate and carry out such research and development program for the purpose of achieving commercial utilization of MHD energy in the United States by the mid-1980's. Creates in the Energy Research and Development Administration a Division of MHD Electric Power Generation. Directs the Administrator to establish and operate an MHD energy information data bank. Authorizes and directs the Administrator to support programs of education to provide the necessary trained personnel to perform the MHD energy research, development, and demonstration programs required under this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated for fiscal year 1976 such sum, not to exceed $50,000,000 as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated for each fiscal year from 1977 to 1980 such sum, not to exceed $100,000,000, as may be necessary to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 12 February 1975
Provides for a credit under the Internal Revenue Code for 20 percent of the amounts deposited by the taxpayer in an educational savings plan for himself or a dependent. Sets limitations on the amount of such credit, depent upon the nature of the account. Defines "educational savings plan" and other terms used in this Act. Provides for the recapture of any such credit allocable to nonqualified noneducational uses or for failure to use the account.
United States · United States Congress · 12 February 1975
Historic Structures Tax Act - Provides, under the Internal Revenue Code, for the preservation and rehabilitation of historic structures by allowing a tax deduction under the Internal Revenue Code with respect to the amortization of the amortizable basis of any certified historic structure based on a period of 60 months. Specifies that no deduction shall be allowed for any expense or loss incurred as a result of the destruction of a certified historic structure. Limits deductions on structures erected upon a site wich was occupied by a certified historic structure which was demolished or substantially altered. Allows the taxpayer to compute the depreciation deduction attributable to substantially rehabilitated property as though the original use of such property commenced with him. Permits deductions for transfer of the remainder or partial interests in property for conservation purposes.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1975
Prohibits any change in the status of any member of the uniformed services who is in a missing status as a result of service in Southeast Asia, until the provisions of the Paris Peace Accord of January 27, 1973, have been fully complied with by North Vietnam or the President has determined and reported to Congress that all reasonable actions have been taken to account for such members.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1975
Constitutional Amendment - States that no public school pupil shall be transported to a particular school because of his or her race, color, national origin, creed, or sex.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1975
National Oil Recycling Act - Directs all Federal officials to act within their authority to encourage the use of recycled oil. States that this Act shall in no way preempt State regulation of recycled oil or used oil disposal whenever such regulation provides for stricter control of recycled oil or used oil than provided for by Federal law. States that the States should encourage the use of recycled oil in order to accomplish the purposes of this Act. Requires that in order to qualify for Federal grants under this Act, a State shall adopt laws, regulations, and administrative machinery which shall provide for, but not be limited to: (1) requiring that used oil collectors obtain a State permit prior to engaging in used oil collecting activities; (2) requiring that used oil recyclers obtain a State permit prior to engaging in recycling operations; (3) when recycled oil is available at prices competitive with new oil produced for the same purpose, using recycled oil for all automotive and industrial uses of the State government, and requiring all parties contracting with the State to use recycled oil in the performance of such contracts; (4) regulating the retail sales of automobile oil so as to encourage the recycling of used oil; (5) prohibiting the use of used oil as fuel oil or for the oiling of State roads, unless such oil has been processed to meet the minimum standards for such uses established by Federal and State pollution control laws; and (6) educating the public and private sectors of the State as to the merits of recycled oil, and the need for its use in order to reduce the drain on the Nation's oil reserves and minimize the disposal of used oil in ways harmful to the environment. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to promulgate regulations with respect to the labeling of recycled oil in order to carry out the purpose of this Act. Directs the Administrator to promulgate regulations requiring all containers of automotive and industrial oil, both new and recycled, to bear labels relating to the proper disposal of such oils after use. Makes it unlawful for any person to enter into any contract or agreement where the intent of such contract or agreement is to discourage the recycling of used oil. Provides for a fine of $50,000 for a violation of such prohibition, or imprisonment for a term of one year or less, or both. Requires records to be kept by parties covered by the provisions of this Act. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to make annual reports to the Congress. Sets forth the contents of such reports. Provides that whenever the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency determines that: (1) in implementing the provisions of this Act, a United States patent right not otherwise available is necessary to enable any person to comply with this Act; (2) there are no reasonable alternative methods to accomplish this Act's purposes; and (3) the unavailability of such patent right may result in a substantial lessening of competition or a tendency to create a monopoly in any line of the Nation's commerce; the Administrator, through the Attorney General, may so certify to a district court of the United States, which may order the person owning the patent to license it on such reasonable terms as the court, after hearing, may determine. Provides that any person violating any provision of this Act which does not provide for specific penalties or punishment thereunder shall upon conviction thereof be guilty of a misdemeanor which shall be punishable by a term of six months in prison for each violation, or a fine of not to exceed $25,000, or both. Authorizes to be appropriated for fiscal year 1975, and for each succeeding fiscal year, $25,000,000 for grants to the States to assist them in fulfilling the purposes and provisions of this Act. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to make allotments to the States, not to exceed 10 cents per capita for any State based on the latest national census, when he has determined that they are in compliance with this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated for fiscal year 1975, and for each succeeding fiscal year through fiscal year 1978, $10,000,000 for the development of new processes and technology to be used in the economical and ecological recycling of used oil. Authorizes to be appropriated for fiscal year 1975, and for each succeeding fiscal year, through fiscal year 1978, $5,000,000 for the development of standards and testing methods to facilitate the comparison of recycled oil with new oil. Imposes a tax of 6 cents per gallon on specified oils other than recycled oils sold in the United States by the manufacturer or producer.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1975
Authorizes each Senator serving on a committee to hire staff to assist him in his duties as a member of each committee on which such Senator serves. Allows each Senator serving as chairman of any subcommittee or ranking minority member of any subcommittee to hire staff to assist him in his duties. States that individuals so appointed shall be in addition to employees otherwise authorized.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1975
Requests the President to proclaim the period from February 16 to March 15, 1975, as "Energy Conservation Month". Directs the President to publicize the need for energy conservation. Requests the President to report to Congress by March 31, 1975, steps taken to promote energy conservation and recommendations for a continuing program. Directs the President to report monthly to the American people and Congress the state of energy resources.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1975
Watergate Reorganization and Reform Act - Title I: Establishment of Government Offices - Establishes, as an independent establishment of the Government, the Office of the Public Attorney, under the direction of the Public Attorney, appointed by three retired courts of appeals judges designated by the Chief Justice of the United States. States that no individual may serve as Publid Attorney unless agreeing not to occupy any popularly elected office under the United States or to accept any other employment in the Government for five years after termination of services as the Public Attorney. Directs the Public Attorney to investigate and prosecute; (1) allegations of corruption in the administration of the laws by the executive branch of the Government; (2) cases referred by the Attorney General because of actual or potential conflicts of interest; (3) criminal cases referred to him by the Federal Election Commission; and (4) allegations of violations of Federal laws relating to campaigns and elections for elective office. Requires the Public Attorney to notify the Attorney Genral of the initiation of an investigation or proceeding with respect to such matters. Limits the Attorney General's activities in any such matters without prior written approval and requires him to inform the Public Attorney of any investigation which falls under the Public Attorney's jurisdiction. Enumerates the powers of the Public Attorney, including; (1) to issue appropriate instructions to the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other domestic investigative agencies of the United States; (2) to receive appropriate national security clearnaces; and (3) to exercise all other powers as to the conduct of criminal investigations, prosecutions (including prosecutions for perjury committed in the course of any investigation or judicial or legislative hearing with respect to any matter within his jurisdiction), civil proceedings, and appeals within his jurisdiction that would otherwise be vested exclusively in the Attorney General and the United States Attorney. Details the administrative powers of the Public Attorney. Make unlawful the disclosure of specified confidential information to persons who are likely to or have come the subject of an investigation by the Publid Attorney, with enumerated limitations, and imposes criminal penalties for so doing. Establishes within the Congress a Congressional Legal Service, under the direction of the Congressional Legal Counsel appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate. Enumerates the duties of the Congressional Legal Counsel, including; to render, upon request of either House of Congress, a joint committee of Congress, any committee of either House of Congress, at least three Senators, or twelve members of the House of Representatives, legal opinions upon questions arising under the Constitution and laws of the United States. Authorizes to be appointed such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions relating to the Office of the Congressional Legal Counsel and such sums as may be necessary for the performance of the duties of the Congressional Legal Counsel under this title. Title II: Government Personnel - Requires an individual who holds the office of President or Vice President at any time during the year or file a report with the Comptroller General, not later than May of the following year, containing a full and complete statement of; (1) the amount of each tax paid; (2) the amount and source of each item of income; (3) the identity of each asset held by him; (4) any transaction in securities of any business; (5) all transactions in commodities by him; (6) any purchase or sale, other than the purchase or sale of his personal residence, of real property; and (7) any expenditure made by another individual for the personal benefit of him or his spouse. Provides that all such reports filed shall be maintained by the Comptroller General as public records. Prohibits campaign solicitations by appointees confirmed by the Senate and executive office personnel. Provides that any individual employed by any agency of the Executive Office of the President, who is compensated from appropriated funds, shall not engage in any investigative or intelligence gathering activity concerning national or domestic security unless specifically authorized to do so by statute. Increases the penalties for interference with elections by Government employees. Requires an annual disclosure of requests from an officer, including the President, or employee of the Executive Office for information or an investigation on the tax liavility of any taxpayer. Requires that all such requests from the Executive Office of the President be in writing. Title III: Congressional Activities - Provides that the Direct Court for the District of Columbia shall have original jurisdiction, without regard to the sum or value of the matter in controversy, over any civil action brought by either House of Congress, any committee or joint committee, to enforce or secure a declaration concerning the validity of any subpena or order issued by such House or committee, or by any subcommittee of such committee, to any officer, including the President and Vice President, or any employee of the executive branch of the United States Government to secure the production of information, documents, or other materials. Makes provisions governing perjury before Congressional committees and testimony before Senate committees. Title IV: Federal Election Campaign Activities, Contributions, and Criminal Sanctions - Repeals provisions of the Internal Revenue Code relating to the deduction for contributions to candidates for public office. Provides that whoever embezzels, steals, or by fraud or deception obtains from any individual who has publicly declared his intent to seek nomination for election, or election, to any Federal office, any campaign materials, documents, or papers which are not available for public dissemination and which belong to any such person shall be fined not more than $5,000, or imprisoned not more than five years, or both. Imposes criminal penalties for; (1) the use of funds to finance violation of provisions of Federal election laws; (2) contributions by specified recipients of Federal funds; (3) the fraudulent infiltration of Federal election campaigns for espionage and sabotage purposes; (4) misrepresentations of a candidate for elective office; and (5) crimes affecting elections. Provides that whoever intentionally obstructions, impairs, or perverts the Government of the United States, or any department or agency thereof, in any manner, shall be fined not more than $10,000 or imprisoned not more than five years or both.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1975
Provides that no change in the status of any member of the uniformed services who is in a missing status as a result of his performance of service of Southeast Asia may be made unless and until the following two provisions have been complied with: (1) the President of the United States has determined, and notified the Congress in writing, that all reasonable actions have been made to enforce the provisions of the Paris Peace Accord of January 27, 1973; and (2) the Secretary concerned notifies the next of kin in writing of the proposed change in status, and next of kin has not filed within 60 days of such notification, and objection to such a proposed change.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1975
Occupational Safety and Health Act Amendments - Provides that the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare shall not propose any rule promulgating a new occupational health or safety standard before (1) he has as part of each such proposal reviewed and published in the Federal Register the financial impact of such proposed standard and (2) has determined with due regard for that impact that the benefit to be derived from such standard justified such proposal. Directs the Secretary to provide for an emergency standard to take effect immediately after publication in the Federal Register if he determines (1) that there is clear and recognized evidence of employees being exposed to serious danger from exposure to substances or agents determined to be toxic or physically harmful or from new hazards, and (2) that such emergency standard is necessary to protect employees from such danger. Requires the Secretary to provide at least twenty-four hours advance notice to the employer to be inspected that an inspection will be made where (1) such notice would afford the employer an opportunity to have qualified management personnel or consultants present during the inspection and (2) where the Secretary has determined that such notice would not unreasonably hamper or defeat the purposes of the Occupational Safety and Health Act. Directs the Secretary to visit the workplace of employers for the purposes of affording consultation and advice to such employers, upon the request of the employers.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1975
Directs the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration to provide for radio and television coverage of proceedings in the Senate Chamber during the first session of the Ninety-fourth Congress, except for closed-door sessions. Requires video tapes of such broadcasts to be kept and made available to commercial broadcast stations. Provides for monitors of such broadcasts in various offices and for audio monitors in members' offices, if desired.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1975
Repeals, under the Sherman Antitrust Act and under the Federal Trade Commission Act, exemptions in the antitrust laws relating to fair trade laws (also known as resale price maintenance or quality stabilization laws) which agreements prescribe minimum or stipulated prices for the resale of brand-name commodities.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1975
Joint Committee on Intelligence Oversight Act - Establishes the Joint Committee on Intelligence Oversight, consisting of seven members from each House, to conduct a continuing study and investigation of the activities of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the United States Secret Service, the Defense Intelligence Agency, the National Security Agency, and all other departments and agencies insofar as their activities pertain to intelligence gathering. Prohibits the appropriation of funds for intelligence activities unless such funds have been specifically authorized by legislation enacted after enactment of this Act. Requires that legislation pertaining to intelligence activities be reported from such joint committee. Grants subpena power to the chairman of such joint committee.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1975
Extends coverage, under the supplementary medical insurance benefits program established by title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, for one routine physical checkup, including diagnostic tests, each year and for preventive and maintenance care for individuals insured under such program.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1975
Provides that the Tennessee Valley Authority may elect, for fiscal years 1976 - 1981, to defer annual repayments if expenditures for certifed pollution control facilities for the preceding fiscal year exceed the mount of the scheduled repayment. Allows a credit for the excess of the amount of any repayments so deferred. Defines "certified pollution control facility" for purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1975
Coal Strip Mine Control Act - Declares that the practice of surface mining for coal in the United States has resulted in the devastation of vast areas of land, in substantial environmental degradation, in an economic and social hardship on the people of these areas, and in the loss of significant scenic and natural resources. Title I: Federal Interim Program - Provides that on and after the date of enactment of this Act any coal surface mine the products of which enter commerce or the operations of which affect commerce shall be subject to the provisions of this Act. Requires the issuance of a permit issued in accordance with the provisions of this Act before any person can, after 270 days from the date of enactment of this Act, engage in or carry out surface mining activities. Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, within 90 days following the date of enactment of this Act, to promulgate regulations in connection with surface mining of coal. Sets forth criteria which such regulation shall contain. Provides that such regulations shall insure that: (1) reclamation of the site will return said land to a use and topographical conformance substantially as it existed prior to commencement of operations or to a different use or topographical conformance if proposed in the application for a permit if the Administrator determines that such alternative plan meets the intent and purpose of this Act; (2) mining and reclamation operations will control or prevent erosion, flooding, and pollution of water, release of toxic substances accidental land or rockslides, damage to fish or wildlife or their habitat, or public or private property, waste or mineral resources, destruction or loss of valuable scenic resource, and hazards to public health and safety; and (3) techniques employed in mining and reclamation under this Act conform to the best practicable technology for operations upon land of like nature and character. States that any regulation issued by the Administrator shall be subject to review in the District Court for the District of Columbia. Sets forth procedures for the approval of applications for permits and for renewal of applications. Provides for administrative hearings and for judicial review of such decisions. States that a permit issued under this title shall be valid for a period of one year following its date of issuance and requires the posting of a performance bond with the Administrator before such permit shall be issued. Provides for the immediate termination of any operation in violation of any of the provisions under which a permit was issued and the person holding such permit shall have 15 days within which to repair damages caused by such operation. Makes provision for the revocation of the permit if such person has not terminated his operation or repaired the damages caused by such operation. States that whoever knowingly violates the provisions of this Act or obtains a permit or renewal thereof through fraudulent means shall be fined not more than $10,000. Provides for a fine in an amount equal to not more than $5,000 for each acre of land stripped in violation of provisions of this Act. Makes provision for the release of performance bonds if it shall appear that said bond may be released consistent with the requirements of this title. Provides that if the Administrator does not approve the reclamation performed by the permittee he shall notify the permittee within twenty days after the request for release is filed. Provides for judicial review of any decision. Title II: State Regulatory Program - Provides that each State in which surface mining for coal is conducted shall adopt and submit to the Administrator, within 8 months after the promulgation of criteria and guidelines by the Administrator, a program which provides for the regulation of surface mining in such State. States that the Administrator shall approve or disapprove such program within four months. Sets forth criteria that such a program shall include. States that after the effective date of any regulatory program under this title, each State shall transmit to the Administrator a copy of any permit application received by such State and provide notice to the Administrator of all actions related to the consideration of the applications, including all permits proposed to be issued by the State. Provides that no permit shall be issued until the Administrator is satisfied that the conditions to be imposed by the State meet the requirements of this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to require any person owning or operating any surface coal mine to establish and maintain records, install, use, and maintain monitoring equipment and provide such other information as he may reasonable require. Provides that the Administrator or his representative shall have a right of entry to, upon, or through any surface coal mine or any premise in which any records required to be maintained are kept. States that such records, reports, or other information required by this title shall be available to the public unless such access would devulge methods or processes entitled to protection as trade secrets. Provides for Federal enforcement of violations of a State regulatory program or of any order issued by the Administrator under this title. Makes provisions for judicial review of actions of the Administrator in approving a State regulatory program under this title. Title III: - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture upon request of States to provide to the States and soil conservation districts technical assistance for developing plans for the reclamation and rehabilitation of land damaged by surface mining. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to carry out the purpose of such a plan. Title IV: - Sets forth definitions of terms used in this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as determined by Congress for fiscal years 1974 and 1975, and thereafter such sums as may be required for the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 January 1975
Provides that the tax on the amounts paid for communication services shall not apply to the amount of the State and local taxes paid for such services under the Internal Revenue Code.
United States · United States Congress · 17 January 1975
States that all tax returns made with respect to taxes imposed by the Internal Revenue Code are confidential records, and that, except where provided otherwise, no return shall be open to inspection nor shall information contained therein be disclosed. Authorizes inspections of returns by the following persons: (1) the taxpayer or his representative; (2) officers and employees of the Departments of Justice, the Treasury, State agencies entrusted with carrying out the income tax laws, and the Internal Revenue Service solely for administration and enforcement of the income tax laws; and (3) the President of the United States. Authorizes the disclosure of statistical information to State and Federal agencies and the Joint Committee on Internal Revenue. Imposes civil and criminal penalties for violations of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 January 1975
Establishes a select committee of the Senate to be known as the Select Committee to Study Governmental Operations with Respect to Intelligence Activities. States that it shall be the function of the select committee to conduct an investigation of all matters relating to: (1) the operations of the United States Government with respect to domestic and foreign intelligence activities; and (2) the past effect and future role of such activities of agencies of the United States Government within the United States and overseas. Sets forth the powers of the Committee. Requires the committee to make a final report to the Senate on its findings and recommendations within two years. Stipulates that the expenses of the special committee shall not exceed $500,000 from the date this resolution is agreed to through February 28, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 16 January 1975
Authorizes appropriations of $2,500,000 for each of fiscal years 1975, 1976, and 1977 to the Secretary of Commerce for the promotion of tourist travel.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1975
Government in the Sunshine Act - Title I: Congressional Procedures - Requires each meeting of each standing, select, or special committee or subcommittee of the Senate and House of Representatives, including meetings to conduct hearings, to be open to the public. Provides that a portion or portions of such meetings may be closed to the public if the committee or subcommittee determines by vote of a majority of a quorum of the members present that the matters to be discussed or the testimony to be taken: (1) will disclose matters necessary to be kept secret in the interests of national defense or the confidential conduct of the foreign policy of the United States; (2) will relate solely to matters of committee staff personnel or internal staff management; or (3) will tend to charge with crime or misconduct, or to disgrace any individual, or will represent a clearly unwarranted invasion of the privacy of any individual (unless it relates to any government officer or employee with respect to his official duties or employment); (4) will disclose information pertaining to any investigation conducted for law enforcement purposes, with specified limitations; or (5) will disclose information relating to the trade secrets or financial or commercial information pertaining specifically to a given person. Directs each standing, select, or special committee or subcommittee of the Senate and House of Representatives to make a public announcement of the date, place, and subject matter of each meeting at least one week before such meeting unless the committee or subcommittee determines by a vote of the majority of a quorum that committee business requires that such meeting be called at an earlier date, in which case the committee shall make public announcement of the date, place and subject matter of such meeting at the earliest practicable opportunity. Provides that a complete transcript shall be made of each meeting of each standing, select, or special committee or subcommittee. Provides that a copy of each such transcript shall be made available for public inspection within seven days and additional copies shall be furnished to any person at the actual cost of duplication. Provides that all the aforegoing requirements and exceptions applicable to the meetings of the committees and subcommittees of the House and Senate shall also be applicable to each meeting of a committee of conference. Establishes procedures to review and reverse any committee and subcommittee vote to close a meeting to the public or to delete from the publicly available copy a portion of a meeting transcript. Title II: Agency Procedures - Requires all meetings of any Federal agency to be open to the public unless a majority of the entire membership of an agency determines the meeting: (1) will disclose matters necessary to be kept secret in the interests of national defense or the confidential conduct of the foreign policy of the United States; (2) will relate solely to individual agency personnel or to internal agency office management and administration or financial auditing; (3) will tend to charge with crime or misconduct, or to disgrace, any person, or will represent a clearly unwarranted invasion of the privacy of any individual (unless it relates to any government officer or employee with respect to his official duties or employment); (4) will disclose information pertaining to any investigation conducted for law enforcement purposes, with specified limitations; or (5) will disclose information relating to the trade secrets or financial or commercial information pertaining specifically to a given person. Directs each agency to make public announcement of the date, place, and subject matter of each meeting (whether open or closed to the public) at least one week before each meeting unless the agency determines by a vote of the majority of its members that agency business requires that such meetings be called at an earlier date, in which case the agency shall make public announcement of the date, place, and subject matter of such meeting at the earliest practicable opportunity. Provides that a complete transcript, including a list of all persons attending and their affilations, shall be made of each meeting of each agency (whether open or closed to the public). Provides that a copy of each such meeting shall be made available to the public for inspection, and additional copies of any transcript shall be furnished to any person at the actual cost of duplication. Requires each agency to promulgate regulations to implement the requirements of this title. States that any citizen or person resident in the United States may bring a proceeding in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit: (1) to require an agency to promulgate such regulations if such agency has not done so within the time period specified herein; or (2) to set aside agency regulations that are not in accord with the requirements of this title and to require the promulgation of regulations that are in accord with such requirements. Gives the district courts of the United States jurisdiction to enforce the requirements of this title by declaratory judgment, injunctive relief, or otherwise. Provides that such actions shall be brought in the district wherein the plaintiff resides, or has his principal place of business, or where the agency in question has its headquarters. Sets forth provisions governing ex parte communications in agency proceedings.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1975
State and Local Fiscal Assistance Act - Repeals the provision of the State and Local Fiscal Assistance Act of 1972 which limits units of local government to use funds received under such Act only for priority expenditures. Authorizes the appropriation to the State and Local Government Fiscal Assistance Trust Fund of $6,650,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, and of $1,7000,000,000 for the period beginning July 1, 1977, and ending September 30, 1977. Authorizes appropriations based upon the Federal adjusted gross income to such Fund for the fiscal years beginning after September 30, 1977. Defines the term Federal adjusted gross income for purposes of such Act. Removes the penalty payment provision under the Act which requires units of local governments to pay over to the Secretary of the Treasury amounts equal to 110 percent of amounts expended out of their trust funds in violation of the provisions of such Act. Extends entitlement periods under such Act to the period beginning July 1, 1977, and ending September 30, 1977, and the one-year periods beginning October 1, 1977 and all subsequent years.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1975
Constitutional Amendment - Provides for the direct popular election of the President and Vice President. Provides that each voter shall cast a single vote for two persons who shall have consented to the joining of their names as candidates for the offices of President and Vice President. States that the persons joined as candidates for President and Vice President having the greatest number of votes shall be elected President and Vice President, if such number be at least 40 percent of the total number of votes cast. Stipulates that if, after such election, none of the persons joined as candidates for President and Vice President is elected, the Congress shall assemble in special session and choose immediately, from the two pairs of persons joined as candidates for President and Vice President who received the highest numbers of votes cast in the election, one such pair by ballot. States that the Congress may by law provide for the case of the death, inability, or withdrawal of any candidate for President or Vice President before a President and Vice President have been elected, and for the case of the death of both the President-elect and Vice-President-elect.
United States · United States Congress · 12 December 1974
States that it is the purpose of this Act to provide emergency financial assistance to stimulate, maintain, or expand job-creating activities in areas suffering from unusually high unemployment. Directs the Secretary of Commerce, in consultation with the heads of Federal departments and agencies, to review proposed expenditures authorized by Federal law to identify programs having the potential to stimulate job creation in eligible areas. Defines an "eligible area" as one of 6.5 percent unemployment prior to the month the designation is made, and specifies the items to be given priority consideration by the Secretary in making the allocations authorized by this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated $1,000,000,000 for fiscal years 1975 and 1976 to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1974
National Employment Assistance Act - Expresses the findings of Congress and declares it to be the purpose of this Act to establish, in areas of aggravated unemployment, a temporary special unemployment assistance program and a temporary program of community improvement projects. Title I: Special Unemployment Assistance Program - Provides that each State which enters into an agreement with the Secretary of Labor, pursuant to which it makes payments of special unemployment assistance in accordance with the provisions of this title and the regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Labor, shall be paid by the United States amounts to carry out the provisions of this title in the State. Provides that an individual shall be eligible to receive a payment of assistance or waiting period credit with respect to a week of unemployment occuring during and subsequent to a special unemployment assistance period in accordance with the provisions of this title if specified requirements are met, including that the individual has exhausted all rights to regular, additional, and extended compensation under all Federal and State unemployment compensation laws. Specifies the length for the special unemployment assistance period, the amount of the weekly benefit, the maximum benefit amount, and the termination date for assistance under this title. Title II: Community Improvement Program - Empowers the Secretary to make financial assistance available to eligible applicants within designated areas for the purposes of carrying out community improvement projects providing temporary employment assistance for unemployed persons in public and private nonprofit agencies and organizations providing community services. Provides for the allocation of funds among the designated areas. Prescribes the procedures for filing applications for financial assistance under this title, for the approval of such applications, and for the conditions required by all programs. Sets forth the criteria governing an individual's eligibility for employment in projects assisted under this title. States that funds appropriated to carry out this title shall be available for obligation as follows: (1) $500,000,000, when the Secretary first determines that the rate of national unemployment averages 6 percent or more for three consecutive calendar months; (2) an additional $750,000,000, when the rate averages 6.5 percent or more for three consecutive calendar months; and (3) an additional $1,000,000,000, when the rate averages 7 percent or more for three consecutive calendar months. Title III: General Provisions - Defines the terms used in this Act. Empowers the Secretary with specified legal authorities. Sets forth the conditions applicable to all programs. Imposes criminal penalties for the theft or embezzlement of manpower funds and improper inducement. Authorizes to be approrpiated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of title I of this Act. States that during the period beginning upon enactment and ending December 31, 1975, there are authorized to be appropriated $2,250,000,000 to carry out the provisions of title II of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 1974
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the well-being of the world and all of its people is gravely threatened by exorbitant or rigged foreign oil prices. States that it is further the sense of the Senate that Congress and the American people support President Ford and Secretary Kissinger in their call to the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries to lower the price of petroleum.
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1974
Joint Committee on Intelligance Oversight Act - Establishes a Joint Committee on Intelligence Oversight, specifying the composition of such Committee and enumerating its duties, including to conduct a continuing study of the activites of the Central Intelligence Agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Secret Service, and other specified agencies of the Federal Government. States that no funds may be appropriated for the purpose of carrying out any intelligence or surveillance activity unless such funds have been specifically authorized by legislation enacted after this Act. Sets forth the administrative powers of the Committee, the procedures for classification of information, and the recordkeeping requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1974
Provides that tax returns are confidential, and, therefore, are not open to inspection, and that information contained in them shall not be disclosed. Permits, under regulations established by the Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service, the inspection of tax returns by the taxpayer, the Internal Revenue Service, the Justice Department, State tax authorities, the President, and the Joint Committee on Internal Revenue Taxation. Requires a report to the Joint Committee of returns inspected and by whom inspected. Establishes criminal penalties for unauthorized disclosure or receipt of tax return information.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1974
Home Purchase Assistance Act - Requires that whenever the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development determines that a substantial number of families are unable to obtain mortgage credit at reasonable rates due to high interest rates or reduced availability of mortgage credit and that the inability to obtain such credit is causing or threatening to cause a significant reduction in the volume of home construction or acquisition and thereby adversely affect the economy and delay the orderly achievement of the national housing goals contained in title XVI of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968, the Secretary shall direct the Government National Mortgage Association to begin making commitments to purchase mortgages in accordance with the provisions of this Act. Establishes within the Association a housing trust fund which shall be used to carry out such purposes. Provides that mortgages may be purchased under this Act only if: (1) such mortgage was executed to finance the acquisition of the principal residence of the mortgagor; and (2) such mortgage involves the acquisition or construction of a residential dwelling at a cost which does not exceed $30,000 (or such greater amount, but not to exceed $45,000 as may be necessary to meet the need for mortgage credit in high cost areas). States that the Association shall not permit the aggregate outstanding amount of mortgages held by the fund under this section to increase by more than $10,000,000,000 in any single fiscal year. Requires that 50 percent of the aggregate principal amount of home mortgages purchased under this Act in any fiscal year shall involve residences upon which construction has been completed within 12 months preceding the date of purchase.
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1974
Provides for the elimination of the copyright expiration date of January 1, 1975, for a limited copyright in sound recordings for the purpose of protecting against unauthorized duplication and piracy of sound recordings. Sets forth increased criminal penalties for piracy and counterfeiting of sound recordings, and for the knowing and fraudulent transportation, sale, or receipt of phonograph records bearing forged or counterfeit labels. Establishes in the Library of Congress a National Commission on New Technological Uses of Copyrighted Works. States that the purpose of the Commission is to study and compile data on: (1) the reproduction and use of copyrighted works of authorship (A) in conjunction with automatic systems capable of storing, processing, retrieving, and transferring information, and (B) by various forms of machine reproduction, not including reproduction by or at the request of instructors for use in face-to-face teaching activities; and (2) the creation of new works by the application or intervention of such automatic systems or machine reproduction. Authorizes appropriations of such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 August 1974
Social Security Recipients Fairness Act - Title I: Replacement of Lost, Stolen, or Delayed Checks - Requires the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish procedures for expedited payment of monthly benefits. Requires the Secretary, within one day after the date an individual files for late payment of benefits, to cause such monthly insurance benefits to be paid. Title II: Expediting of Hearings and Determination - States that in the administration of the programs established by titles II, XVI, and XVIII of the Social Security Act, the Secretary shall establish procedures designed to assure that: (1) any duly requested hearing to which an individual is entitled thereunder will be held within a reasonable period of time after such hearing is so requested, if such hearing is requested with respect to a determination of entitlement to benefits; and (2) not later than ninety days after such a hearing is requested, the Secretary shall render a final determination on the issues which were the subject of such hearing, or if no final determination of the Secretary has been made at that time, the Secretary shall make payments of benefits to such individual in like manner as if a final determination has been made fully in favor of such individual.
United States · United States Congress · 21 August 1974
Extends coverage, under the supplementary medical insurance benefits program established by title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, for one routine physical checkup, including diagnostic tests, each year and for preventive and maintenance care for individuals insured under such program.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1974
Public Broadcasting Financing Act - Establishes a Public Broadcasting Fund in the Treasury and authorizes to be appropriated to such Fund for each of the fiscal years 1976 through 1980 an amount equal to forty percent of the total amount of non-Federal financial support received by public broadcasting entities during the fiscal year second preceding each such fiscal year, up to specified limits. Provides for specified portions of the Public Broadcasting Fund to be distributed among the licensees and permittees of noncommercial educational broadcast stations.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1974
Authorizes the Senate Select Committee on Presidential Campaign Activities to transfer its records to the Library of Congress. Provides that the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration shall control access to and use of such records after such transfer.
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1974
Provides that any national banking association may take, receive, reserve, and charge on any loan or discount made, or upon any notes, bills of exchange, or other evidences of debt, interest at the rate allowed by the laws of the State, Territory, or District where the bank is located, or at a rate of 1 percent in excess of the discount rate on ninety-day commercial paper in effect at the Federal reserve bank in the Federal reserve district where the bank is located, or in the case of a loan to a corporate borrower, at a rate of 5 percent in excess of the discount rate on ninety-day commercial paper in effect at the Federal Reserve bank in the Federal reserve district where the Bank is located, whichever may be the greater, and no more, except that where by the laws of any State a different rate is limited for banks organized under State laws, the rate so limited shall be allowed for associations organized or existing in any such State. Makes provisions with respect to interest rates in order to prevent discrimination against State-chartered insured banks. Permits State-chartered banks to acquire FDIC insurance. Permits savings banks and savings and loan institutions insured under Title IV of the National Housing Act to charge up to 5 percent in excess of the discount rate on ninety-day commercial paper in effect at the Federal Reserve bank in the Federal reserve district where the institution is located.
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 1974
Provides that daylight saving time pursuant to the Emergency Daylight Saving Time Energy Conservation Act shall terminate on the last Sunday of October 1974 and that in the calendar year 1975 daylight saving time shall begin on the last Sunday of February.
United States · United States Congress · 23 July 1974
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the leadership of the Nation responsible for our economic wellbeing meet together immediately in a spirit of unity to design a set of policy actions to achieve the common goal of restoring stability and growth to the American economy and confidence and prosperity to the American people. Directs that this domestic summit be convened forthwith comprised of the President, the majority and minority leadership of both Houses of the Congress, the chairmen and ranking minority members of the Appropriations Committees of both Houses, the chairmen and ranking minority members of the Senate Finance Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee, and the Chairman of the Federal Reserve Board, together with leaders of labor and business, and such other participants as they may agree upon. Provides that they shall meet and devote such time as necessary until a plan of action is decided upon which, by its demonstration of renewed unity, direction, and purpose, will gain the public support and confidence necessary to be effective in overcoming these difficulties.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 1974
Authorizes Congress under the Atomic Energy Act, to concur in or disapprove international agreements for cooperation in regard to certain nuclear technology.
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 1974
Authorizes the Senate Committee on Commerce to make a full and complete investigation and study for the purpose of determining a policy and role for the Federal Government on tourism in the United States which will most effectively enable the industry to realize fully its potential to contribute to the social well-being, the cultural understanding, and the economic prosperity of the United States. Provides that the chairman and ranking minority member of each of the Senate Committees on Appropriations, Agriculture and Forestry, Interior and Insular Affairs, Public Works, Foreign Relations, Government Operations, Labor and Public Welfare, Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, and Judiciary, and the Select Committee on Small Business, or a member of such committees designated by each such chairman or ranking minority member to serve in his place, shall serve as ex officio members of the Committee on Commerce for purposes of this study. Directs the Committee on Commerce to report its findings, together with its recommendations for such legislation as it deems advisable, to the Senate.
United States · United States Congress · 19 June 1974
Provides for the elimination of the copyright expiration date of January 1, 1975, for a limited copyright in sound recordings for the purpose of protecting against unauthorized duplication and piracy of sound recordings. Sets forth increased criminal penalties for piracy and counterfeiting of sound recordings, and for the knowing and fraudulent transportation, sale, or receipt of phonograph records bearing forged or counterfeit labels.
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1974
Social Security Recipients Fairness Act - Establishes, under the Social Security Act, a procedure for the prompt payment of social security benefits to individuals whose social security checks have been lost, stolen, or otherwise delayed. Provides for expedited hearings and determinations respecting claims for benefits under titles II (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) and Title XVIII (Medicare) of the Act.
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 1974
Declares that Dr. Kissinger be commended on his outstanding contributions to the cause of world peace and that deep gratitude to Dr. Kissinger for his services is hereby expressed by the Senate. Declares that the United States Senate holds in high regard Dr. Kissinger, and regards him as an outstanding member of this Administration, as a patriotic Amercian in whom it has complete confidence, and whose integrity, and veracity are above reproach, and that the U.S. Senate wishes for him success in his continuing efforts to achieve a permanent peace in the world.
United States · United States Congress · 11 June 1974
National Oil Recycling Act - Directs all Federal officials to act within their authority to encourage the use of recycled oil. States that this Act shall in no way preempt State regulation of recycled oil or used oil disposal whenever such regulation provides for stricter control of recycled oil or used oil than provided for by Federal law. States that the States should encourage the use of recycled oil in order to accomplish the purposes of this Act. Requires that in order to qualify for Federal grants under this Act, a State shall adopt laws, regulations, and administrative machinery which shall provide for, but not be limited to: (1) requiring that used oil collectors obtain a State permit prior to engaging in used oil collecting activities; (2) requiring that used oil recyclers obtain a State permit prior to engaging in recycling operations; (3) when recycled oil is available at prices competitive with new oil produced for the same purpose, using recycled oil for all automotive and industrial uses of the State government, and requiring all parties contracting with the State to use recycled oil in the performance of such contracts; (4) regulating the retail sales of automobile oil so as to encourage the recycling of used oil; (5) prohibiting the use of used oil as fuel oil or for the oiling of State roads, unless such oil has been processed to meet the minimum standards for such uses established by Federal and State pollution control laws; and (6) educating the public and private sectors of the State as to the merits of recycled oil, and the need for its use in order to reduce the drain on the Nation's oil reserves and minimize the disposal of used oil in ways harmful to the environment. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to promulgate regulations with respect to the labeling of recycled oil in order to carry out the purpose of this Act. Directs the Administrator to promulgate regulations requiring all containers of automotive and industrial oil, both new and recycled, to bear labels relating to the proper disposal of such oils after use. Makes it unlawful for any person to enter into any contract or agreement where the intent of such contract or agreement is to discourage the recycling of used oil. Provides for a fine of $50,000 for a violation of such prohibition, or imprisonment for a term of one year or less, or both. Requires records to be kept by parties covered by the provisions of this Act. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to make annual reports to the Congress. Sets forth the contents of such reports. Provides that whenever the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency determines that: (1) in implementing the provisions of this Act, a United States patent right not otherwise available is necessary to enable any person to comply with this Act; (2) there are no reasonable alternative methods to accomplish this Act's purposes; and (3) the inavailability of such patent right may result in a substantial lessening of competition or a tendency to create a monopoly in any line of the Nation's commerce; the Administrator, through the Attorney General, may so certify to a district court of the United States, which may order the person owning the patent to license it on such reasonable terms as the court, after hearing, may determine. Provides that any person violating any provision of this Act which does not provide for specific penalties or punishment thereunder shall upon conviction thereof be guilty of a misdemeanor which shall be punishable by a term of six months in prison for each violation, or a fine of not to exceed $25,000, or both. Authorizes to be appropriated for fiscal year 1974, and for each succeeding fiscal year, $25,000,000 for grants to the States to assist them in fulfilling the purposes and provisions of this Act. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to make allotments to the States, not to exceed 10 cents per capita for any State based on the latest national census, when he has determined that they are in compliance with this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated for fiscal year 1974, and for each succeeding fiscal year through fiscal year 1977, $10,000,000 for the development of new processes and technology to be used in the economical and ecological recycling of used oil. Authorizes to be appropriated for fiscal year 1974, and for each succeeding fiscal year, through fiscal year 1977, $5,000,000 for the development of standards and testing methods to facilitate the comparison of recycled oil with new oil. Imposes a tax of 6 cents per gallon on specified oils other than recycled oils sold in the United States by the manufacturer or producer.
United States · United States Congress · 3 June 1974
Authorizes the financing of parkways from the Highway Trust Fund, provided such parkways are managed solely for scenic and recreational use and passenger car travel.
![Official portrait of Sen. Baker, Howard H., Jr. [R-TN]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/b000063_200.jpg)