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United States · Official source
3,789 records where Sen. Biden, Joseph R., Jr. [D-DE] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1982
Urgent Coast Guard Supplemental Appropriations Act, 1982 - Makes supplemental appropriations to the Department of Transportation for the operating expenses of the Coast Guard for FY 1982.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1982
Requests the President to designate the week of February 7 through February 13, 1982, as National Crime Prevention Week.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1982
Expresses the sense of the Congress that current Federal law authorizes and requires the Internal Revenue Service to deny tax-exempt status and deductibility of contributions to private schools that practice racial discrimination.
United States · United States Congress · 16 December 1981
Amends the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to extend from August 6, 1982, to August 6, 1984, the current preclearance requirements (under which jurisdictions covered through the triggering mechanism must submit proposed electoral changes to the Department of Justice). Establishes a new standard for jurisdictions to "bail-out" of these requirements effective August 6, 1984. Permits political subdivisions of covered States to bail-out independently of the State. Conditions a declaratory judgment for bail-out on the jurisdiction's showing that it and all its political subdivisions have met the bail-out requirements for a ten-year period prior to the filing of the suit. Includes among the requirements for bail-out that: (1) no test or device has been used to discriminate on account of race, color, or language; (2) no actions alleging voting discrimination are pending or have gone to final judgment; (3) no Federal examiner has served in the jurisdiction seeking bail-out; (4) the jurisdiction and all its subdivisions have complied with the preclearance requirements; and (5) the jurisdiction and its subdivisions have taken affirmative steps to protect voting rights. Stipulates that lawsuits filed during pendency of the bail-out litigation will not bar bail-out. Subjects the jurisdiction to the preclearance requirements if any such lawsuit alleging voting violations is successful after bail-out. Restates the prohibition against voting discrimination to include as a violation conduct which has the effect of discrimination. Stipulates that the failure of a minority to be proportionately represented does not itself constitute a violation. Extends the bilingual election requirements from August 6, 1985, to August 6, 1992. Declares that nothing in the Voting Rights Act shall be construed to permit assistance within the voting booth, unless the voter is blind or physically incapacitated.
United States · United States Congress · 15 December 1981
States that the Federal Government should promote energy conservation through low-income weatherization assistance, energy conservation information programs, and funding of energy conservation research and development.
United States · United States Congress · 11 December 1981
Amends title IV (National Research Institutes) of the Public Health Service Act to establish a National Institute on Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases. Sets forth the Institute's research and training functions and arthritis and musculoskeletal diseases program plan. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Institute, to operate multipurpose arthritis and musculoskeletal disease research centers. Requires annual evaluations of such centers. Authorizes specified appropriations for such centers for fiscal years 1983-1985. Directs the Secretary to establish an arthritis and musculoskeletal disease Coordinating Committee, which shall meet at least four times a year.
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 1981
Expresses the sense of the Senate that Ziad Abu Eain should be remanded to the custody of Israeli officials and that the Secretary of State should take the actions necessary to ensure his extradition to Israel.
United States · United States Congress · 1 December 1981
Repeals provisions of the Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981 which set forth special rules for the leasing of depreciable business property between corporations.
United States · United States Congress · 24 November 1981
United States Academy of Peace Act - Establishes the United States Academy of Peace as an independent nonprofit corporation. Sets forth the powers and duties of the Academy, including establishment of an Endowment of the United States Academy of Peace. Authorizes the Academy to establish: (1) a Center for International Peace; and (2) a United States Medal of Peace and other medals or honors. Subjects the Academy to specified freedom of information requirements. Provides that, with certain exceptions, the Academy shall not be considered a department, agency, or instrumentality of the Government. Prohibits the use of any political test or political qualification with respect to personnel actions of the Academy or financial assistance by the Academy. Authorizes appropriations in a specified amount for an Academy buildings and grounds capitalization fund. Authorizes appropriations in specified amounts for fiscal years 1983 and 1984 for Academy programs and administration.
United States · United States Congress · 10 November 1981
Directs the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to establish a national cemetery on the Delmarva Peninsula in Delaware, Maryland, or Virginia.
United States · United States Congress · 6 November 1981
Directs the President in cooperation with the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System to exercise appropriate authorities to assure an adequate flow of credit to small borrowers at affordable prices. Directs the President to take appropriate actions to limit the large-scale diversion of credit to nonproductive uses. Directs the President in cooperation with the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System to take noninflationary actions necessary to reduce interest rates. Directs the President to report to Congress within 30 days concerning the effect of his actions in protecting an adequate flow of affordable credit to small borrowers and reducing excessive interest rates.
United States · United States Congress · 6 October 1981
Expresses the sympathy of the United States to President Anwar Sadat's family and to Egypt. Reaffirms U.S. support for Egypt.
United States · United States Congress · 5 October 1981
Missing Children Act - Authorizes the Attorney General to collect and exchange information which would assist in the identification of unidentified deceased individuals, and the location of missing persons, including missing children.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1981
Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to give first or fourth visa preference (sons and daughters of U.S. citizens) to an alien who was fathered by a U.S. serviceman after 1950 in Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, Laos, Japan, Thailand, or the Philippines. Requires a five-year financial support guarantee signed by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident sponsor. Allows the Attorney General to enforce such guarantee against the sponsor in a civil suit unless such sponsor dies or is adjudicated bankrupt.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1981
Expresses the objection of Congress to the proposed sale to Saudi Arabia of airborne warning and control system (AWACS) aircraft, conformal fuel tanks, AIM- 9L Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, and aerial refueling aircraft.
United States · United States Congress · 28 September 1981
Hunger Elimination and Global Security Act - Expresses the sense of Congress that the United States should make development of poor countries and the eradication of poverty and hunger the primary objective of U.S. foreign policy. Directs the President to designate certain foreign aid programs as Hunger Relief and Prevention Assistance. Title I: Public Law 480 - Amends the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954 to replace the provision describing self-help programs developed under agreements for the sale of farm products for foreign currency and long-term-dollar-credit. Requires such agreements to describe the self-help programs and to provide for the termination of the agreement or adjustment of its credit terms whenever the President finds that the program is not being carried out as specified in the agreement. Prohibits termination or credit adjustment of such an agreement if the President reports to Congress that: (1) such action would threaten U.S. security; or (2) the program was not carried out because of circumstances beyond the control of the recipient country. Requires the self-help measures to be sufficiently described so that the primary beneficiaries of the agreement will be needy people. Defines "needy people." Requires such measures to be in addition to measures that the recipient country would otherwise have taken. Directs the President to verify that such measures are being carried out and to report to the appropriate congressional committees on such verification and on the additional nature of such measures. Title II: Multilateral Development Banks - Amends the International Financial Institutions Act to direct the Secretary of the Treasury to work within certain multilateral development banks to establish a requirement that not less than 50 percent of such banks' lending must benefit needy people. Requires the Secretaries of State and Treasury to report to Congress annually on establishing such requirement. Title III: World Food Security - Directs the President to encourage other grain exporting countries to establish their own food security reserves or take other measures that complement the U.S. food security reserve. Directs the President to report to Congress on actions taken with respect to such food security reserves. Directs the President to negotiate with other countries and with certain organizations to try to ensure that the benefits of the food financing facility recently approved by the International Monetary Fund be directed to effect the maximum feasible reduction in hunger and malnutrition. Directs the President to report to Congress on such negotiations. Amends the Export Administration Act of 1979 to prohibit the Secretary of Commerce from imposing export controls on food if such controls would cause measurable malnutrition in the countries against whom the controls are proposed unless the President determines such controls are necessary to protect U.S. national security. Title IV: Basic Human Needs Agreement - Requires a Basic Human Needs Agreement between the United States and a foreign country before the foreign country may receive bilateral development assistance under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. Exempts from such requirement assistance for narcotics control, disaster relief, or peacekeeping operations. Sets forth the goals of such agreements. Title V: Relief and Prevention of Starvation - African Assistance and Hunger Prevention Act - Requires at least 50 percent of all U.S. international development assistance funds beginning in fiscal year 1983 to be used to finance productive facilities primarily for the absolutely poor. Defines the "absolutely poor." Requires special emphasis to be placed on alleviating hunger in sub-Saharan Africa and on the role of women in farm production in that region. Amends the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954 to earmark for the food for development program a specified percentage of the aggregate value of all agreements entered into under the program for the sale of farm products for foreign currency and long-term-dollar-credit. Requires certain commodities and funds to be used to establish grain reserves in famine prone African nations or to otherwise prepare for food shortages in those nations. Title VI: General Provisions - Expresses the sense of Congress that the President, acting through the Director of the Peace Corps, should emphasize projects to alleviate hunger and malnutrition by encouraging agricultural self-sufficiency in countries where Peace Corps volunteers are serving.
United States · United States Congress · 21 September 1981
Authorizes supplemental expenditures by the Committee on the Judiciary for inquiries and investigations, including an increase in the amount which may be expended for the procurement of consultant services.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1981
Criminal Code Reform Act of 1981 - Title I: Codification, Revision, and Reform of Title 18 - Amends title 18 of the U.S. Code, the Federal criminal code. Subdivides such title into the following parts: (1) general provisions and principles; (2) offenses; (3) sentences; (4) administration and procedure; and (5) ancillary civil proceedings. Part I: General Provisions and Principles - Sets forth the general purpose and application of title 18, general principles of criminal liability, and over 100 general definitions. States that the existence of Federal jurisdiction is not an element of any offense. Provides that particular offenses may include separate jurisdictional requirements. Enumerates factors which Federal law enforcement officers should consider in determining whether to exercise jurisdiction concurrently with a State. Directs the Attorney General to consult with State and local governments on the exercise of Federal jurisdiction and to report annually to Congress on the extent of this exercise. Permits information obtained in the exercise of Federal jurisdiction to be shared with State or local law enforcement officers exercising concurrent jurisdiction. Declares that Federal jurisdiction is not generally preemptive of State jurisdiction, but enumerates offenses with respect to which the Attorney General may order preemption. Decreases from 78 to four the mental states for criminal culpability ("intentional", "knowing", "reckless", and "negligent"). Sets forth general rules for criminal complicity. Makes a person who facilitates completion of an offense by providing substantial assistance liable as a facilitator. Codifies the rule making a coconspirator liable for the reasonably foreseeable criminal conduct of another person (the "Pinkerton doctrine"). States as a general principle that the Federal courts shall determine bars to prosecution, defenses, and affirmative defenses in accordance with common law. Sets forth a general statute of limitations of five years for a felony or misdemeanor and one year for an infraction (currently such limits vary with the offense). Permits an extended period for certain concealable offenses, such as fraud or misconduct in office. Reduces generally from 18 to 17 years the age of responsibility for adult criminal conduct. Permits the prosecution of individuals under the age of 17 for crimes of violence and certain narcotics offenses. Part II: Offenses - Organizes offenses by the following types (rather than alphabetically as under current law): (1) offenses of general applicability, including attempt, conspiracy, and solicitation; (2) offenses involving national defense; (3) offenses involving international affairs; (4) offenses involving government processes; (5) tax offenses; (6) offenses involving individual rights; (7) offenses against the person; (8) offenses against property; and (9) offenses involving public order, safety, health, and welfare. Replaces the particularized penalties for specific offenses in current law with general penalty provisions specifying: (1) terms of imprisonment based on five classes of felonies (A to F); three classes of misdemeanors (A to C); and an infraction; and (2) levels of fines according to the type of offense and defendant (individual or organization). Repeals the Logan Act (prohibiting private communication with a foreign government to influence foreign policy), the Smith Act (prohibiting advocating the overthrow of the Government), and the current prohibition against spreading false information during wartime with intent to aid the enemy. Includes among new Federal offenses: (1) general attempt and solicitation; (2) engaging in para-military activity for the purpose of taking over a government agency; (3) conspiring in the United States to kill, maim, or kidnap a foreign official; (4) obstructing a government function by fraud or by physical interference; (5) a general crime of false swearing; (6) failing to keep a Government record with intent to defraud in connection with benefits provided by a Federal program; (7) speculating on official action or information; (8) a series of offenses covering election fraud; (9) possession of an eavesdropping device; (10) possession of burglar's tools; (11) trafficking in stolen property; and (12) operating a racketeering syndicate. Revises numerous offenses, including the following changes. Adds a new "renunciation" defense to the offense of conspiracy and to the new offenses of attempt and solicitation. Limits the offense of "impairing military effectiveness" to time of war or national defense emergency or where a major weapons system or means of defense against large scale enemy attack is impaired. Revises "criminal contempt" to impose a maximum prison sentence of six months and a fine of $10,000 for an individual and $100,000 for an organization (current law imposes no such limits). Modifies "obstruction of justice" to detail prohibited activities with respect to tampering with a witness, victim, or informant. Changes the offense of "bail jumping" to vary the penalties according to the category of offense. Makes an oral false statement to a Government official an offense only where: (1) the speaker knows the official is a law enforcement officer; and (2) the statement is volunteered or made after the speaker has been advised that making a false statement is an offense. Requires corroborating evidence that the offender made the alleged statement. Adds a new defense of retraction to the offense of "making a false statement." Revises "tax evasion" to eliminate the net tax deficiency requirement. Modifies "civil rights offenses" to: (1) include all "persons" (current law protects "citizens"); (2) allow for a single offender (current law requires a conspiracy); and (3) eliminate the specific intent requirement. Prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex (current law includes race, color, religion, or national origin) in violation of a person's right not to be subject to sex discrimination. Extends Federal jurisdiction over any contract murder involving interstate commerce, homicide committed on a railroad vehicle operating in commerce, or murder of a U.S. Secret Service protectee. Revises various sex offenses to eliminate distinctions as to the sex of the offender or victim. Includes additional acts in the offense of rape. Makes punishable the rape of one spouse by the other, but applies the interspousal exemption for lesser sex offenses. States that corroboration of the victim's testimony is not required. Provides, with respect to sexual abuse of a minor, that the victim must be less than 16 years old and at least three years younger than the offender. Establishes Federal jurisdiction over the offense of arson and aggravated property destruction where the offense is committed on an energy facility. Extends Federal jurisdiction over the robbery of controlled substances from a pharmacy. Consolidates numerous theft statutes under current law. Varies the penalties with the value and type of property stolen. Reduces the penalty for the temporary taking of a motor vehicle by a juvenile. Revises the crime of "executing a fraudulent scheme" to cover pyramid sales schemes. Extends Federal jurisdiction to include: (1) trafficking in a substance that is represented to be a controlled substance; (2) soliciting property in a passenger terminal; and (3) obtaining at least $100,000 in insurance proceeds through the offense of arson. Extends Federal jurisdiction over the counterfeiting of securities or bonds issued by an organization or State or local government. Establishes Federal jurisdiction over commercial bribery affecting Federally- funded programs. Extends the scope of labor bribery to include bribery involving union membership procedures and work placement. Revises "loansharking" to add as a new offense an extension of credit over $100 in value carrying an annual interest rate exceeding the higher of 45 percent or twice the interest rate on U.S. obligations. Establishes a mandatory two-year minimum sentence for trafficking in an opiate unless the court finds specified mitigating circumstances. Increases the authorized term of imprisonment for trafficking in large amounts of an opiate or phencyclidine (PCP). Increases the fine for trafficking in large amounts of marihuana. Limits the current offense of using or carrying a firearm during commission of a Federal felony to crimes of violence. Expands this crime to include displaying any destructive device or other dangerous weapon or imitation thereof. Establishes a mandatory two-year minimum sentence unless the court finds specified mitigating circumstances. Narrows the applicability of "riot offenses" by: (1) requiring the actual occurrence of a riot; and (2) defining "riot" as involving at least ten persons (three in current law). Conforms the definition of "obscene material" to Supreme Court decisions for purposes of the offense of "disseminating obscene material." Defines "community" standards as those in the Federal district in which the obscene material is disseminated. Part III: Sentences - Sets forth a new sentencing structure applicable to a defendant who is found guilty of an offense under any Federal statute. Permits an individual to be sentenced to a term of imprisonment or probation and a fine, and to receive additional sanctions, including: (1) forfeiture for certain racketeering crimes; (2) an order of notice to victims of crimes in cases involving fraud or deceptive practices; or (3) an order of restitution in cases involving bodily injury or property damage. Permits an organization to receive these penalties, with the exception of imprisonment. Specifies factors to be considered by a sentencing court, including the guidelines and policy statements issued by the United States Sentencing Commission. Requires the court to impose a sentence within the range set forth by the Commission unless aggravating or mitigating circumstances exist that were not adequately considered by the Commission in formulating the guidelines. Requires the court to state in open court at the time of sentencing the reason for imposing a sentence at a point within the prescribed range, or the specific reason for imposing a sentence outside of such range. Authorizes the imposition of a term of probation, unless specifically prohibited, for all but the most serious class of felonies. Requires as a mandatory condition of probation that a defendant not commit another crime. Enumerates 20 discretionary conditions. Sets forth a fine schedule for the categories of offenses generally at higher levels than current law. Includes higher maximums for organizational defendants. Directs the court to consider the defendant's financial status in determining the amount of a fine and the method of payment. Sets maximum terms of imprisonment for five classes of felonies (A to F), three classes of misdemeanors (A to C), and an infraction (five day maximum). Allows the court, in imposing a sentence in excess of one year, to include a term of supervised release after imprisonment. Excludes capital punishment as an authorized penalty, but leaves unaffected the current death penalty provision for aircraft hijacking. Eliminates the parole system. Permits a defendant to petition for a sentence reduction upon a showing of extraordinary and compelling reasons. Limits this motion for defendants who are sentenced to five or more years of imprisonment. Part IV: Administration and Procedure - Amends the wiretapping law to restrict the interception of communications without a court order in emergency situations to the offenses of treason, sabotage, espionage, or an offense involving risk of death (current law limits it to conspiracies involving national security or organized crime). Establishes new procedures requiring authorization for investigative use of a "call register" (a mechanical device which records numbers dialed on the telephone line to which it is attached). Leaves generally unchanged the rules respecting venue for offenses committed in more than one district. Limits the prosecution of disseminating obscene material to the districts where the material was disseminated or the offense was completed (current law allows prosecution in any district through which the material moves). Replaces the Bail Reform Act of 1966 with new bail procedures. Authorizes a judicial officer to consider the safety of any person or the community when making pretrial release determination. Eliminates execution of a money bond as a condition for pretrial release. Authorizes a judicial officer to order the pretrial detention of a person upon finding that: (1) no condition will reasonably assure his appearance, and the safety of any other person and the community; and (2) there is a substantial probability that the person committed the offense. Permits a judicial officer to order the temporary detention (up to ten days) of a person who is presently on release, if no conditions will assure his appearance and the safety of the community. Permits a defendant to be released after conviction and pending appeal only upon a showing that: (1) he is not likely to flee or pose a danger to another person or property; and (2) the appeal raises a substantial question of law or fact. Establishes a new intake screening requirement for juvenile cases for the purposes of considering alternatives to prosecution. Authorizes a special verdict of "not guilty only by reason of insanity" for any criminal defendant who raises the issue of insanity by notice as currently provided. Establishes a new civil commitment procedure for persons found not guilty only by reason of insanity. Permits in a felony or class A misdemeanor case, unless contrary to a plea agreement, a defendant to appeal a sentence greater than the maximum allowed under the Sentencing Commission's guidelines, or a sentence including an order of notice or restitution. Permits the Government, with the personal approval of the Attorney General or the Solicitor General, to appeal a sentence less than the applicable minimum. Treats criminal fine judgments as tax liens. Part IV: Ancillary Civil Proceedings - Consolidates and enumerates 24 offenses for which the Attorney General may initiate civil forfeiture proceedings. Establishes in the Treasury a Victim Compensation Fund from which victims of Federal offenses may be compensated upon filing a claim with the United States Victim Compensation Board established by this Act. Title II: Amendments to the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure and the Federal Rules of Evidence - Makes a number of specific amendments to the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure and the Federal Rules of Evidence. Title III: Amendments to Title 28 United States Code - Establishes the United States Victim Compensation Board to administer the victim compensation program created by this Act. Establishes as an independent body in the judicial branch the United States Sentencing Commission to establish sentencing policies and practices for the Federal criminal justice system. Title IV: General Provisions - Sets forth general provisions including that this Act shall take effect, with specified exceptions, 30 months after the date of enactment. Title V: Technical and Conforming Amendments Cross-Referenced in Title 18 - Makes technical and conforming amendments. Title VI: Codification and Revision of Title 18 Appendix Reenactment and Redesignation of Former Sections of Title 18 - Transfers certain offenses contained in current title 18 to a new title 18 Appendix. Title VII: Technical and Conforming Amendments to Provisions Outside Title 18 and Title 18 Appendix - Makes technical and conforming amendments.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1981
Expresses the objection of Congress to the proposed sale to Saudi Arabia of airborne warning and control system (AWACS) aircraft, conformal fuel tanks, Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, and aerial refueling aircraft.
United States · United States Congress · 15 September 1981
Authorizes the President to present, on behalf of Congress, a specially struck gold medal to the widow of Roy Wilkins. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to coin and sell bronze duplicates of such medal. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1981
Disapproves the final rule promulgated by the Secretary of Commerce dealing with the Federal consistency provisions of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1981
Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) private relief agencies embarking on a program of emergency foodstuffs for Poland are to be commended and Americans encouraged to support this effort; (2) the Senate supports the President's efforts to respond to the Polish food emergency and urges a continuation of this stance; and (3) European governments and peoples are urged to assist in relieving the Polish food emergency.
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 1981
Requests the President to designate the week beginning October 4, 1981, as "National Port Week."
United States · United States Congress · 28 July 1981
Requests the President to designate the week of October 19 through October 25, 1981, as "National High School Activities Week."
United States · United States Congress · 9 July 1981
National Security and Violent Crime Control Act of 1981 - Title I: Omnibus Drug Control Amendments - Omnibus Drug Control Amendments - Directs the Attorney General to submit annually to the Congressional judiciary committees a report on how reorganization of the Drug Enforcement Administration and narcotics and organized crime control policies of the Department of Justice will accomplish specified goals, including: (1) immobilizing at least one organized crime entity each year; (2) reducing narcotic trafficking by meeting annual goals; and (3) reducing the economic incentives for drug traffickers by forfeiting assets of major narcotics traffickers. Amends the Omnibus Crime Control Act of 1970 to revise and increase the mandatory penalties for using or carrying a firearm during commission of a Federal felony. Redefines such offense as using a firearm to commit a felony over which the district courts have exclusive jurisdiction or carrying a firearm during such a felony involving violence. Deletes the requirement that the firearm be carried "illegally." Increases the additional penalty imposed for such offense to five to ten years' imprisonment for a first offense (currently, one to ten years) and to ten years to life for a second offense (currently, two to 25 years). Extends to first offenders the stipulations, currently applicable only to second offenders, that the court not suspend any sentence, grant probation, or impose concurrent sentences. Makes a first offender ineligible for parole for five years and a second or subsequent offender ineligible for ten years. Expresses the sense of Congress that the executive branch vigorously prosecute such offenses. Amends the Federal criminal code to establish penalties for whoever commits or commissions a contract murder, attempted murder, or assault. Provides that a direct or indirect contract between two or more persons involving an offer, agreement, or solicitation to commit a contract murder shall constitute prima facie evidence that the act was commissioned for "anything of value." Applies the penalties for contract murder to whoever uses actual or threatened force to coerce another to commit a murder, attempted murder, or assault in violation of State law. Directs the Attorney General to designate criteria for Federal involvement in the prosecution of contract murders. Stipulates that this Act does not preempt State law in this area. Makes it a Federal offense to kill any attorney, agent, or employee of the U.S. Government employed to investigate or prosecute violations of Federal criminal statutes or any employee of the Intelligence Community. Establishes a new offense of assaulting, kidnapping, murdering, or threatening the relative of any Federal employee covered by the current assault statute, with intent to interfere with such employee's official duties. Amends the obstruction of justice statute to expand the class of persons protected from coercion to include potential witnesses and informants (current law protects actual witnesses). Amends the Freedom of Information Act to expand the exception relating to informants to limit disclosure of information which "tends to disclose" an informant's identity. Amends the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure to permit a court to reduce a sentence of a cooperating defendant upon application of a U.S. Attorney. Amends the wiretap statute to require a judge to review in camera any information as to previous wiretap applications which might compromise a current or pending case or investigation. Amends the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure to permit disclosure of Federal grand jury information to a State or local law enforcement official who is assisting a U.S. Attorney in the enforcement of Federal criminal law. Amends the Federal criminal code to establish a mandatory term of imprisonment whenever: (1) serious bodily injury resulted from the defendant's participation in the offense; or (2) the offense is a felony and the defendant was previously convicted of a Federal or State felony, unless a substantial period of time has elapsed. Amends the Bail Reform Act of 1966 to authorize the court, after a due process hearing, to order the detention of a defendant charged with a dangerous or violent offense upon finding that: (1) there is a substantial probability that the defendant committed the offense; and (2) there is clear and convincing evidence that the person is likely to flee or is a danger to another person or the community, and that no release conditions will reasonably assure such person's appearance or the safety of another person or the community. Permits the court to consider the safety of any other person or the community in determining release conditions. Adds to those factors to be considered by the judge in making a release or detention determination: (1) the individual's past conduct, illegal drug use, and conviction record; and (2) whether he was on probation, parole, or other release when arrested. Authorizes a judge to detain for up to ten days a person charged with an offense if it appears that such person: (1) may flee or pose a danger to another person or the community; and (2) is on pretrial release for a Federal or State felony or is on probation, parole, or other release for a Federal, State, or local offense. Amends the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) and the Continuing Criminal Enterprise statute (CCE) to subject to criminal forfeiture all profits and proceeds acquired indirectly or directly from illegal enterprises or from continuing narcotics enterprises. Authorizes the court to direct the forfeiture of other assets of a defendant, to the extent that such proceeds cannot be located or are otherwise beyond Federal jurisdiction. Permits the court to authorize redemption of such assets upon surrender of the original proceeds. Establishes a mandatory penalty of life imprisonment without possibility of parole for attempting to assassinate the President of the United States. Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to require the revocation of the airman certificate of any person who violates any Federal or State law relating to the transportation or distribution of controlled substances. Provides criminal penalties for the use or sale of fraudulent certificates with the intent or knowledge that such certificates will be used to violate any such laws. Establishes criminal penalties for operating an aircraft with knowledge that such aircraft is used or intended to be used to violate any such laws. Directs the Attorney General to provide a complete report on organized crime to Congress within 60 days of enactment. Amends the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure to require the consecutive sentencing of any defendant who commits a felony while on pretrial release for another offense and is convicted of such offenses. Directs the Attorney General to move expeditiously to conduct negotiations to secure the cooperation of law enforcement authorities in foreign countries in order to deprive domestic criminals of the use of foreign havens for proceeds of crimes. Violent Juvenile Reform Act of 1981 - Amends the juvenile delinquency provisions of the criminal code to permit a juvenile to be proceeded against in Federal district court upon certification of the Attorney General that the offense charged, if committed by an adult, would be a felony punishable by a maximum penalty of ten years' imprisonment or more, life imprisonment, or death, and there is a special interest warranting Federal prosecution. Revises the factors to be considered in determining whether the transfer to district court of a juvenile over the age of 16 who has committed a felony punishable by at least ten years' imprisonment is in the interest of justice. Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to authorize Federal assistance and training to State and local governments and private nonprofit organizations for programs and projects of proven effectiveness in improving the criminal justice system. Authorizes Federal assistance for national initiative programs of high priority and long-term impact for State and local governments, including corrections standards and accreditation, law enforcement accreditation, emergency enforcement assistance, and the establishment of a National Police Academy. Authorizes appropriations in the amount of $30,000,000 for fiscal year 1982 for such purposes. Amends the Justice System Improvement Act of 1979 to authorize the National Institute of Justice to conduct applied research in the area of rehabilitation and recidivism and review the impact that longstanding issues of procedure such as the right to a speedy trial have had on crime control. Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to establish a national program of group life insurance for public safety officers of a State or local government which has applied to the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration to participate in such program and agrees to withhold a premium from such officers' pay. Creates an Advisory Council on Public Safety Officers' Group Life Insurance to advise the Administration on such program. National Narcotics Act of 1981 - Establishes in the executive branch the Office of the Director of National and International Drug Operations and Policy to: (1) develop and enforce Federal Government policy with respect to illegal drugs; (2) coordinate all efforts to halt drug trafficking; (3) supervise and approve budgetary priorities with respect to drugs; and (4) direct the temporary reassignment of Government personnel to implement drug policies. Title II: Federal Diversion Act - Federal Diversion Act of 1981 - Authorizes the preparation of a diversion program not to exceed 12 months for eligible individuals charged with non-violent Federal offenses. Includes in such program, among other activities: medical, educational, vocational, social, and psychological services; corrective and preventive guidance counseling; restitution to the victim of the offense; and uncompensated community service. Includes among the criteria for eligibility that the person has not exhibited a continuing pattern of criminal behavior. Sets forth the admissions procedure to such program. Requires a person admitted to the program to waive formally all applicable statutes of limitations and his or her right to a speedy trial. Provides that upon the expiration of the diversion period the Government shall dismiss with prejudice the indictment, information, or complaint. Authorizes the Government to resume prosecution upon finding that the person is not fulfilling his or her obligations under the plan or that new facts demonstrate that the individual is unsuitable for the program. Allows the person charged to contest such a determination. States that the district planning group established by current law, with other individuals as the group may appoint, shall constitute a diversion advisory committee to plan for implementation and review of the diversion program. Directs the Attorney General to conduct research and report to the President, Congress, and the Judicial Conference of the United States with respect to the diversion program. Authorizes appropriations in the amount of $3,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1982 through 1985 to carry out the provisions of this Act. Title III: Arson Control - Anti-Arson Act of 1981 - Establishes an Interagency Committee on Arson Prevention and Control to coordinate Federal anti-arson programs and to provide assistance to State and local governments for the prevention, detection, and control of arson. Directs the Committee to report to Congress on the success of its activities within 18 months of enactment. Terminates the Committee two years from the date of enactment. Requires the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation to: (1) classify arson as a major crime in the Uniform Crime Reports; and (2) develop a special statistical report for arson in cooperation with the National Fire Data Center. Directs the Administrator of the United States Fire Administration to: (1) conduct a research program for the development of techniques and equipment for use by State and local fire fighting and law enforcement personnel for arson prediction, prevention, and control; (2) establish anti-arson educational and training programs for State and local government; (3) develop materials for community awareness programs; and (4) provide information relative to the prevention, prediction, occurrence, and control of arson. Authorizes appropriations for the Administration for such purpose. Amends the National Housing Act to require that FAIR (fair access to insurance requirements) plans be issued only after insurers obtain information from a prospective policyholder with respect to arson. Title IV: The Sentencing Reform Act of 1981 - Sentencing Reform Act of 1981 - Establishes as an independent body in the judicial branch the United States Sentencing Commission, consisting of seven voting members and the Attorney General or his designee as a non-voting member, to establish sentencing policies and practices for the Federal criminal justice system. Directs the Commission to promulgate: (1) sentencing guidelines, including sentencing ranges for categories of offenses and defendants; and (2) general policy statements regarding application of the guidelines. Requires the Commission to review and promulgate amendments to the guidelines, subject to Congressional disapproval. Directs the Commission to recommend changes in the grading of offenses to Congress within three years of enactment and to report annually to the Judicial Conference of the U.S., Congress, and the President. Sets forth a new sentencing structure applicable to a defendant who is found guilty of an offense under any Federal statute. Permits an individual to be sentenced to a term of imprisonment or probation and a fine, and to receive additional sanctions, including: (1) forfeiture for certain racketeering crimes; (2) an order of notice to victims of crimes in cases involving fraud or intentionally deceptive practices; or (3) an order of restitution in cases involving bodily injury or property damage. Permits an organization to receive such penalties, with the exception of imprisonment. Specifies factors to be considered by a sentencing court, including the guidelines and policy statements issued by the United States Sentencing Commission and the need to avoid sentencing disparities among defendants with similar records. Requires the court to impose a sentence within the range set forth by the Commission unless aggravating or mitigating circumstances exist that were not adequately taken into consideration by the Commission in formulating the guidelines. Requires the court to state in open court at the time of sentencing the reason for imposing a sentence at a point within the prescribed range, or the specific reason for imposing a sentence outside of such range. Sets forth a presentence procedure for an order of notice or restitution. Sets maximum terms of imprisonment for five classes of felonies (A to F), three classes of misdemeanors (A to C), and an infraction (five day maximum). Prescribes rules regarding factors to be considered in imposing a term of imprisonment. Permits a term of imprisonment to be modified only in certain circumstances. Authorizes the court to include an order limiting the criminal association of organized crime and drug offenders. Allows the court, in imposing a term of imprisonment in excess of one year, to include as part of such sentence a requirement that the defendant be placed on a term of supervised release after imprisonment. Prescribes guidelines relative to concurrent and consecutive terms of imprisonment. Sets limits on the amount of a fine for each category of offenses, including higher maximums for organizational defendants. Directs the court, in determining the amount of a fine and the method of payment, to consider the defendant's financial status. Details procedures for the modification or remission of a fine. Authorizes the imposition of a term of probation, unless such sentence is specifically prohibited, with respect to all but the most serious class of felonies. States permissible terms of probation for each category of offenses. Requires as a mandatory condition of probation that a defendant not commit another crime. Enumerates 20 discretionary conditions of probation. Sets forth provisions relative to the running of a term of probation and revocation of probation. Permits in a felony or class A misdemeanors case, unless contrary to a plea agreement, a defendant to appeal a sentence greater than the maximum allowed under the Sentencing Commission's guidelines which are found by the sentencing court to be applicable. Permits the Government, with the approval of the Attorney General or his designee, to appeal a sentence less than the applicable minimum. Authorizes the court of appeals, upon a determination that the sentence is unreasonable, to remand for further sentencing proceedings or (where the defendant has appealed) to remand for imposition of a lesser sentence or impose a lesser sentence, or (where the Government has appealed) to remand for imposition of a greater sentence or impose a greater sentence.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 1981
Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to direct the Federal Communications Commission to assign a limited facility very high frequency (VHF) assignment to States which do not have a licensed VHF commercial television station if it is technically feasible.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 1981
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the parties to the major league baseball strike should enter into round-the-clock negotiations to reach a settlement.
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 1981
Establishes a Presidential Protection Commission to: (1) recommend policies and standards to reduce the risk of criminal assaults against the President and other Secret Service protectees during public appearances; and (2) review the criminal laws relating to the safety of the President. Directs the Commission to issue a final report within one year of enactment. Terminates the Commission 90 days after such report.
United States · United States Congress · 10 June 1981
Condemns the violence in Northern Ireland. Urges the exploration of all possible steps to avoid further deaths in the hunger strike and to achieve an immediate and humanitarian resolution of the strike issues. Urges Great Britain to exercise greater flexibility in administering prison rules in Northern Ireland and to invite the European Commission on Human Rights or other appropriate independent parties to participate in settling the strike. Urges the political leaders in Great Britain, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland to seek the earliest possible settlement in Northern Ireland through a negotiated agreement. Requests the President to express to the Prime Minister of Great Britain, American concern for an immediate hunger strike settlement and a lasting settlement of the conflict in Northern Ireland.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Expresses the support of the Senate for diplomatic efforts to resolve the current crisis in Lebanon. Sets forth as principles to guide U.S. policy in Lebanon: (1) establishment of a cease-fire; (2) removal of all Syrian missiles deployed in Lebanon; (3) preservation of free and secure Christian, Moslem, Druze, Armenian, and Jewish communities in Lebanon; (4) reaffirmation of the historic U.S.-Lebanon relationship and strengthening of the U.S. commitment to the integrity of Lebanon; (5) generous international support for assistance for Lebanon; and (6) restoration and respect for the authority of the Lebanese Government based on national elections.
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1981
Expresses the sense of the Senate that combating violent crime should be a national priority.
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1981
Expresses the sense of the Senate in support of "Solidarity Sunday" (relating to the treatment of Jews in the Soviet Union).
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 1981
Malt Beverage Interbrand Competition Act - Declares that no antitrust law shall prohibit the importer, brewer, or trademark licensee of a trademarked malt beverage from entering into an agreement granting a wholesale distributor the exclusive right to sell such beverage within any defined geographic area within a State, or limiting such distributor to the sale of such beverage for ultimate resale to consumers in that area, when such beverage has substantial competition from other malt beverages in that area. Declares that this Act shall not affect any provision of State law.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1981
Expresses the concern of the Senate over the attack on Pope John Paul II.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1981
Expresses the sense of the Senate that Anatoly Shcharansky be released from prison in the Soviet Union, be given proper medical treatment, and be permitted to emigrate to Israel. Urges the President, the Secretary of State, and the U.S. delegation to the Madrid Conference on Security and Cooperation to continue to express U.S. opposition to the imprisonment of Anatoly Shcharansky.
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1981
Criminal Forfeiture Amendments Act of 1981 - Amends the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) and the Continuing Criminal Enterprise statute (CCE) to subject to criminal forfeiture all profits and proceeds acquired indirectly or directly from illegal enterprises or from continuing narcotics enterprises. Authorizes the court to direct the forfeiture of other assets of a defendant, to the extent that such proceeds cannot be located or are otherwise beyond Federal jurisdiction. Permits the court to authorize redemption of such assets upon surrender of the original proceeds.
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1981
States the disapproval of the Senate to proposed deferrals of budget authority D81-95 and D81-96 for Veterans' Administration medical care.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1981
Regulatory Reform Act - Amends the Administrative Procedure Act to require the notice of proposed agency rulemaking to include: (1) a statement of the Congressional intent behind the rule; (2) a solicitation for public proposals for alternative methods; (3) a description of the data used in the rulemaking; and (4) a determination of whether the rule is a "major rule," as defined in this Act. Directs each agency to publish with such notice: (1) a description of the costs and benefits of and alternatives to the proposed rule; and (2) a justification for proposing the rule and selecting it over the alternatives. Requires agencies to give interested persons at least 60 days to submit written comments on any proposed rule and to make oral comments on major rules. Provides for a 30-day extension of such period. Directs each agency to publish with each final rule a statement of its basis and purpose, including an assessment of the public comments and a comparison of the costs, benefits, and adverse effects of the rule. Requires an agency officer or employee to prepare the rulemaking notice and the statement of the basis and purpose. Directs each agency to maintain, for judicial review, a public file of the paperwork and comments pertaining to each rulemaking proceeding. Allows an agency to promulgate an emergency rule without meeting the notice and comment requirements. Directs such agency: (1) to publish an explanation of the situation requiring the emergency rule and a justification of the emergency rule selected; and (2) to comply with normal rulemaking requirements as soon as practicable. Requires each agency to review its major rules every ten years. Directs each agency to: (1) publish and submit to the President a proposed review schedule; and (2) publish a final schedule within one year after enactment of this Act. Permits the President to select additional rules for review. Directs each agency to publish a notice of its proposed action regarding a reviewed rule. Requires that the notice: (1) assess the costs, benefits, and adverse effects of the rule; and (2) invite public proposals for modifications or alternatives to the rule. Requires an agency to follow normal rulemaking procedures when amending or rescinding a rule. Specifies procedures for renewing a rule without amendment. Directs a court reviewing an agency action to: (1) set aside any agency rule found to lack substantial support in the rulemaking file; (2) determine the authority or jurisdiction of the agency on the basis of the language of the authorizing statute or other evidence of legislative intent; and (3) accord no presumption in favor of or against agency action. Declares that when proceedings for review of the same agency action are instituted in two or more courts of appeals within ten days, the Administrative Office of the United States Courts shall select the court in which the record shall be filed by a system of random selection. Authorizes the courts not selected to grant preliminary relief pending transfer of their proceedings. Requires each agency to publish in the Federal Register, semiannually, an agenda of the rules the agency expects to propose, promulgate, renew, or withdraw within the next 12 months, including a schedule of the significant actions pertaining to each rule. Directs the President to publish, semiannually, a Calendar of Federal Regulations, listing each of the major rules included in the agenda.
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1981
Establishes a Special Joint Committee on the Centennial of the Birth of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Directs that such committee be composed of sixteen Members of the Congress. Directs that such committee shall prepare an overall program for nationwide observances and make comprehensive plans for commemorating the one hundredth anniversary of the birth of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, including a joint session of Congress to be held on January 29, 1982. Provides that such committee shall terminate not later than April 30, 1982.
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1981
Coastal Barrier Resources Act - Declares the findings and intentions of Congress in regard to the fish, wildlife, and other natural resources associated with the coastal barriers along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States. Establishes the Coastal Barrier Resources System (System) which shall consist of specified undeveloped coastal barriers on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Requires that certain coastal barrier maps shall be available for public inspection through the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to provide copies of such maps to the chief executive officer of: (1) each State and political subdivision in which a System unit is located, and (2) each affected Federal agency. Directs the Secretary to make necessary modifications to such maps and to notify specified Congressional committees of the same. Limits, to specified projects, Federal expenditures on such projects or financial assistance for purposes within the System. Lists those projects eligible for financial assistance. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to certify annually to Congress that the Federal agencies concerned have complied with the provisions of this Act. Declares that no provision of this Act shall be construed to invalidate any provision of State or local law. Sets forth the contents of reports to be filed by the Secretary with specified Congressional committees. Authorizes appropriations to the Department of the Interior for fiscal years 1982 through 1986 for the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1981
Peace Corps Autonomy Act - Requires the Peace Corps to be an independent agency within the Executive branch. Amends the Peace Corps Act to delete certain provisions relating to readjustment allowance payments to Peace Corps volunteers. Authorizes the President to delegate the authority to carry out such Act only to the Director of the Peace Corps. Requires the Directors of the Peace Corps, the Action Agency, and the Office of Management and Budget to report to Congress within a specified time on the implementation of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1981
Title I: Pretrial Services Act of 1981 - Pretrial Services Act of 1981 - Requires the Director of the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts to establish, under the supervision of the Judicial Conference of the United States, directly or by contract, a pretrial services agency (PSA) in each judicial district as recommended by the appropriate district court and circuit judicial council. (Current law authorizes such agencies on a demonstration basis in ten representative districts). Places such agencies under the general authority of the Director and under the supervision of a chief pretrial services officer selected by a panel consisting of the chief judges of the circuit and district courts and a magistrate of the district. (Current law places five agencies under the Office's Division of Probation and five under an independent Board of Trustees.) Requires, rather than permits, regulations issued by the Director relating to the confidentiality of information contained in agencies' files to provide for certain exceptions. Continues generally the existing functions and powers of the PSAs, and adds three new duties: (1) developing a system to monitor and evaluate bail activities; (2) preparing pursuant to agreements reports for the U.S. Attorneys Offices on information pertaining to pretrial diversion; and (3) making contracts to carry out PSA functions. Eliminates the discretion of the district courts to determine which duties shall be performed. Deletes the requirement that contracts for the operation of facilities for the custody of persons released be approved by the Attorney General. Requires the Director to include in the annual report to the Judicial Center a report on the administration and operation of the PSAs. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act and for the activities of the PSAs before the effective date of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1981
Department of Justice Appropriation Authorization Act, Fiscal Year 1982 - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 to the Department of Justice for: (1) general administration; (2) the United States Parole Commission; (3) general legal activities; (4) the Foreign Claims Settlement Commission; (5) United States Attorneys, Marshals, and Trustees; (6) support of U.S. prisoners in non-Federal institutions; (7) fees and expenses of witnesses; (8) the Community Relations Service; (9) the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), including classification of arson as a part I crime in its Uniform Crime Reports and automated data processing and telecommunications; (10) the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS); (11) the Drug Enforcement Administration, including activities under the Controlled Substances Act; and (12) the Federal Prison System. Authorizes the Drug Enforcement Administration to set aside 25 percent of the amount realized from the forfeiture of seized assets for compensating informers with respect to such forfeitures. Eliminates the U. S. trustees program. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to subject the overtime treatment of INS immigration employees for inspection duties to the general government overtime rates and provisions.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1981
Legal Services Corporation Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Legal Services Corporation Act to direct the Legal Services Corporation to make available substantial funds to provide the opportunity for legal assistance to be furnished by private attorneys. Authorizes appropriations for the Corporation in the amount of $321,300,000 for fiscal year 1982 and necessary sums for fiscal years 1983 and 1984.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1981
Proclaims Raoul Wallenberg an honorary citizen of the United States. Requests the President to ascertain his whereabouts from the Soviet Union and to secure his freedom.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1981
Voting Rights Act Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to extend from August 6, 1982, to August 6, 1992: (1) the time period during which jurisdictions covered by the triggering mechanism must not have used a test or device to deny the right to vote on account of race in order to be released from coverage; and (2) the time period during which changes in voting laws must be precleared with the Federal Government. Extends the bilingual election requirements from August 6, 1985, to August 6, 1992. Restates the prohibition against denying the right to vote based on race to prohibit any State from imposing voting practices "in a manner which results in a denial or abridgement" of the right to vote.
United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1981
Extends through September 30, 1984, the period of Vietnam-era veterans' eligibility for readjustment counseling and related mental health services.
United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1981
Commends James S. Brady, Press Secretary to the President, and expresses the desire of the Senate for his speedy recovery from a gunshot wound inflicted during an assassination attempt on the life of the President of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1981
Commends Secret Service Agents Timothy McCarthy and Jerry Parr and Metropolitan Police Officer Thomas Delahanty for their performance in the line of duty with respect to the assassination attempt on the life of the President of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 12 March 1981
Amends the Veterans Health Programs Extension and Improvement Act of 1979 to direct the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to develop and publish regulations for resolving claims for benefits administered by the Veterans' Administration based on exposure to Agent Orange during military service in Vietnam during the Vietnam era.