United States · United States Congress · 18 January 1979
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow individual and corporate taxpayers to elect to treat certain reforestation expenditures as not chargeable to capital account in order to qualify them as an income tax deduction, limited to $10,000 annually. Denies such deduction for any amount reimbursed under specified Federal reforestation and timber stand improvement cost sharing programs. Establishes in the United States Treasury a Reforestation Trust Fund, whose moneys shall be paid to the Secretary of Agriculture in order to meet obligations incurred in eliminating and preventing a backlog in the reforestation of the National Forest System, but only to the extent such obligations exceed amounts appropriated under any other provision of law. Authorizes the annual appropriation of not to exceed $30,000,000 for such Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1979
National Ski Patrol System Recognition Act of 1979 - Grants a Federal charter to the National Ski Patrol System. Declares that the purpose of such corporation shall be to promote public safety in skiing.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1979
Sunset Act of 1979 - Title I: Reauthorizations of Government Programs - Sets forth a ten-year schedule for reauthorization of all Federal programs according to budget function and subfunction as set forth in the Budget of the United States Government for Fiscal Year 1979. Sets forth the procedure in the House of Representatives and the Senate for the consideration of any bill, resolution, or amendment which authorizes new budget authority. States that it is not in order for either House to consider any legislation which authorizes the enactment of new budget authority for a program for a period of more than ten years, for an indefinite period, or for any fiscal year beginning after the next reauthorization date applicable to such program. Provides that before the Congress can appropriate funds for any program, after its first reauthorization date, there must be a specific authorization in law to support the appropriation. Requires the committees of the Senate and House of Representatives to conduct a sunset review of programs during the Congress in which such programs are scheduled for review. Requires that the report accompanying such reauthorization contain specified information, and that the report be completed during the Congress in which the program is scheduled for reauthorization. Exempts from the requirements of this Act specified programs such as interest on Federal debts, health care services, general retirement and disability payments, as well as litigation activities which have as their objectives the protection and implementation of civil rights guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States and specified retirement pay and benefits. Allows the reauthorization schedule set forth in this Act to be changed by concurrent resolution of the two Houses of Congress and sets forth the procedure for such change. Requires all legislation and other matters related to changes in the dates for programs under this Act to be referred to the committee with legislative jurisdiction over any program affected by the proposal and, sequentially, to the Committee on Rules in the House of Representatives and to the Committee on Rules and Administration in the Senate. Requires such committees to report any concurrent resolution or bill referred to it by a committee of legislative jurisdiction within 30 days, with a statement on each of its recommendations. Makes provisions for any proposed change which has been reported by a committee before June 1, 1980. Title II: Program Inventory - Directs the Comptroller General and the Director of the Congressional Budget Office, in cooperation with the Director of the Congressional Research Service, to prepare an inventory of Federal programs. Declares that the purpose of such program inventory is to advise and assist Congress in carrying out the reauthorization and reexamination requirements and to link such reauthorization and review process with the budget process. Requires the Comptroller General to submit such program inventory to each House of Congress no later than January 1, 1980. Sets forth the contents of the inventory program, including the type of authorization provided for such programs' new budget authority, and the manner in which related program areas may be grouped for evaluation and review. Permits the congressional committees, the Congressional Budget Office, and the Congressional Research Service to review the program inventory and suggest revisions. Requires that the program inventory be revised at the end of each session of Congress, and that such revisions be reported to each House. Requires that periodic reports tabulate the progress of congressional action on bills and resolutions authorizing budget authority for programs in the inventory. Requires the Comptroller General and the Director of the Congressional Budget Office to submit periodic reports to the Congress on the adequacy of the functional and subfunctional categories for grouping programs of like missions or objectives. Title III: Program Reexamination - Requires each committee of the Senate and the House of Representatives to reexamine selected programs or groups of programs over which it has jurisdiction. Sets forth procedures for such review, and criteria for selection of program areas for evaluation. Directs each Senate committee to consult with the appropriate committees of either the House of Representatives or the Senate in order to achieve coordination of program reevaluation and inform itself of the related activities of or available assistance from the General Accounting Office, the Congressional Budget Office, the Congressional Research Service, the Office of Technology Assessment, and appropriate instrumentalities in the executive and judicial branches. Requires each Senate committee to deliver a report on the reexamination to the Secretary of the Senate at the date specified in the funding resolution first reported by such committee in 1981, and thereafter reported for the first session of each Congress. Allows two or more committees which have legislative jurisdiction over the same programs or portions of the same programs to examine such programs jointly and submit a joint report. Stipulates that such report: (1) contain the findings, recommendations, and justifications of the program; and (2) include specified information including, but not limited to, an assessment of the cost-effectiveness of the program and an identification of any trends, developments, and emerging conditions which are likely to affect the nature and extent of the problems or needs which the program is intended to address. Requires each executive department or agency which is responsible for a program selected for reexamination to submit a report to the Office of Management and Budget and to the appropriate committees of the Congress on its findings, recommendations, and justifications of specified aspects of the program. Title IV: Citizens' Commission on the Organization and Operation of Government - Establishes, as an independent instrumentality of the United States, the Citizens' Commission on the Organization and Operation of Government to conduct a nonpartisan study and investigation of the organization and methods of operation of all departments, agencies, independent instrumentalities, and other authorities of the executive branch of the Government, and to make such recommendations as it determines are necessary to promote economic, efficient and improved services in the transaction of public business. Requires the Commission to submit interim reports to the President and the Congress, and to submit a final report with its findings and recommendations. Requires the Comptroller General to report once a year for two years after submission of the Commission's final report on the status of actions taken as a result of the report. Specifies the composition of the 15-member Commission and sets forth the duties and powers of the Commission. States that the Commission shall cease to exist 90 days after submission of its final report. Authorizes to be appropriated until September 30, 1984, without fiscal year limitations, $4,000,000 to carry out the provisions of this Title. Title V: Regulatory Impact - Requires the President to submit, at the beginning of each of the five Congresses beginning with the 97th Congress, an analysis of the purpose, function, and efficiency of 16 specified regulatory agencies. Requires the President to submit legislative plans, based on such analyses, for the improvement of operations of such agencies. Establishes a schedule according to which plans for specified agencies will be submitted early in each of the five Congresses for which the required analyses are submitted. Directs the President, with each plan, to submit a report on the cumulative impact of government regulatory activity on specific industry groupings. Directs the Comptroller General and the Director of the Congressional Budget Office to assess each of the agencies included in the President's plans and to analyze such plans, and submit such information to the Congress. Title VI: Government Accountability - Requires the President, beginning with the first year of the 97th Congress, to submit biennially, as a part of the budget, a report on the management of the executive branch. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to provide an evaluative report on Federal programs to the President to be included with the President's report. Title VII: Miscellaneous - Amends the Budget and Accounting Act of 1921 to permit the committees of Congress to obtain from the agencies of the government estimates or requests for appropriations or requests for increases in an item of any such estimate or request, and recommendations as to how the revenue needs of the government should be met. Declares that nothing shall require the public disclosure of records which are specifically authorized under criteria established by an Executive order to be kept secret in the interest of national defense or foreign policy and are in fact properly classified pursuant to such Executive order, or which are otherwise specifically protected by law. Provides that the committees of the Senate or the House of Representatives shall not be required to publicly disclose any such records, except as otherwise provided by the rules of either House. Sets forth administrative procedures and requirements. Directs the President, with the cooperation of the head of each appropriate agency, to submit to the Congress a "Regulatory Duplication and Conflicts Report" for all programs scheduled for reauthorization in the next Congress. Stipulates that each such report identify duplicative or conflicting rules and regulations promulgated by executive departments, independent agencies, and State and local governments and contain recommendations which address such conflicts or duplications. Defines the term "required authorization waiver resolution" for purposes of this Act. Sets forth the procedure which the chairman of the committee of the Senate or the House of Representatives having legislative jurisdiction over programs must follow in order to introduce a required authorization waiver resolution. Makes it the duty of the Committees on Governmental Affairs and on Rules and Administration of the Senate and the Committees on Government Operations and on Rules of the House of Representatives to review the operation of the procedures established by this Act and to submit a report every five years beginning December 31, 1986. Authorizes to be appropriated through fiscal year 1990 such sums as may be necessary to carry out the review requirements and for the compilation of the inventory of Federal programs.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1979
Meat Import Act of 1979 - Limits the maximum aggregate quantity of specified meat articles which may be entered, or withdrawn from warehouses, for consumption in the customs territory of the United States in any calendar year after 1978 to 1,204,600,000 pounds, adjustable according to a specified formula. Excludes from the domestic commercial production factor in such formula the carcass weight of live cattle specified in certain Tariff Schedules. Requires a further adjustment of such annual aggregate quantity by multiplying it by a ratio of: (1) the average annual per capita production of domestic cow beef during a calendar year (as estimated) and the four preceding calendar years; to (2) the average annual per capita production of domestic cow beef in the calendar year (as estimated) and the preceding calendar year. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, for each calendar year after 1978, to estimate and publish the aggregate quantity of meat articles prescribed for such year as well as the quantity that would be entered into the United States but for the limitations. Directs the President to limit by proclamation, upon giving 30 days notice in the Federal Register, the total quantity of meat articles entered into the United States, whenever such quantity equals or exceeds 110 percent of the Secretary's estimate; but prohibits any limitation below 1,200,000,000 pounds. Requires the termination of any limitation as of the first day of a calendar quarter, under most circumstances, if before such quarter the aggregate quantity is less than 110 percent of the Secretary's estimate. Permits the President, upon giving 30 days notice in the Federal Register, to suspend any proclamation or increase any amount proclaimed as required by the preceding provision if: (1) require, economic or national security interests; (2) supplies are inadequate to meet domestic demand at reasonable prices; or (3) trade agreements ensure the execution of the policy. Prohibits the President from increasing the total quantity of meat imports if the above ratio is less than 1.0 unless: (1) a period of national emergency is declared or (2) supplies are inadequate because of a natural disaster to meet demand at reasonable prices. Prohibits such suspension or increase from extending beyond the termination of the national emergency. Requires the Secretary to allocate the entry quota of meat articles proclaimed by the President among supplying countries on the basis of their respective shares of the United States market for meat articles during the representative period, taking into account any special factors. Directs the Secretary to study the regional economic impact of imports of meat articles and report any recommendations to the appropriate committees of Congress by December 31, 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 12 October 1978
Amends the Magnuson-Moss Warranty-Federal Trade Commission Improvement Act to extend the filing date of a study of specified rulemaking procedures of the Federal Trade Commission until June 30, 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 12 October 1978
Earth Data and Information Service Act - Establishes the Earth Data and Information Service within the National Aeronautics and Space Administration which shall be responsible for collecting data primarily obtained by remote sensing satellites and for improving cooperation between the Government and private sectors and other Nations. Directs the Service to: (1) provide rapid processing of, and ready access to, the data and information collected at a reasonable cost to users; (2) promote competition among suppliers of equipment and services for the Earth Data and Information System and maximum use of remote sensing data and basic information products; and (3) make such products available to all users, both domestic and foreign, according to a schedule of charges to be established by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Directs the Administrator to establish in the Service an Earth Data and Information System which includes sensing satellites, ground equipment, data reception and other devices designed to contribute to the understanding of the Earth's resources and environment. Requires the Administrator to consult with the National Telecommunications Information Agency of the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications Commission in establishing communications networks to transmit information and data. Stipulates that the communications services needed to establish such networks, insofar as practicable, shall be procured from the private sector. Sets forth civil penalties for the unlawful reproduction for sale or distribution of any data or basic information product produced by the Service. Specifies procedures by which the President may transfer to the Service related functions of any other department or agency. Requires the Administrator to present to the President, who shall transmit to Congress in January of each year, a report containing a description of the activities and accomplishments of the Service during the preceding year. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 29 September 1978
Amends the venue provisions of Federal law to provide that a civil action in which a defendant is the United States, a United States agency, or an officer or employee thereof acting in an official capacity, or an appeal from a final order of the Federal Communications Commission, the Federal Maritime Commission, the Interstate Commerce Commission, the Atomic Energy Commission, the Secretary of Agriculture, or the Maritime Administration must be brought in a judicial district or circuit in which it has been determined that a substantial portion of the impact or injury exists.
United States · United States Congress · 27 September 1978
Space Policy Act - Establishes a national space policy and program to enable the United States to maintain leadership in space science and technology. Declares such policy, including that the United States: (1) is committed to space exploration for peaceful purposes and the benefit of mankind; (2) rejects claims of sovereignty over outer space and celestial bodies; and (3) will continue to participate in cooperative international space activities. Directs the President to assure the space program proceeds toward enumerated goals in space and terrestrial application and in space science. Details the goals to be achieved within ten years, including: (1) design of prototype electric power generation transmission systems; (2) design of space technologies determining the feasibility of space-based manufacturing; (3) establishment of a remote-sensing system of earth's resources; and (4) the pursuit of planetary and lunar science and exploration. Requires the President to submit to Congress a five-year schedule, with annual revisions, identifying missions, projects, and programs to achieve the objectives of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 September 1978
Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Act - Title I: Findings and Purposes - States the findings and purposes of the Act. Title II: Improved Security for Motor Vehicles and Their Parts - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to establish standards for motor vehicle safety which include standards to reduce motor vehicle theft by taking into account: (1) the costs and benefits of implementing such standards; (2) the effect of such implementation on automobile insurance costs; (3) savings in terms of time and convenience; and (4) safety considerations. Title III: Antifencing Measures - Establishes penalties for anyone who knowingly removes, obliterates, tampers with, or alters any identification number for any motor vehicle or motor vehicle part required under Department of Transportation regulations. Requires the forfeiture of such motor vehicle or motor vehicle part to the United States, but provides for mitigation of forfeiture whenever an interested person makes an appropriate petition. Establishes penalties for anyone who buys, receives, possesses, or obtains control of, with intent to sell or otherwise dispose of, any motor vehicle or motor vehicle part knowing that such identification number has been removed or altered. Designates as nonmailable matter any manipulative type device which is designed or adapted to operate, circumvent, remove, or render inoperative the ignition switch or lock, or door or truck lock of two or more motor vehicles, or any advertisement for the sale of such device. Title IV: Importation and Exportation Measures - Establishes criminal and civil penalties for anyone who imports, exports, or attempts to import or export any motor vehicle, vessel, aircraft, or part knowing it has been stolen, or any motor vehicle or motor vehicle part knowing that its identification number has been altered. Requires persons who export or attempt to export a used motor vehicle to present to the appropriate customs officer the vehicle and a document describing that vehicle. Authorizes customs officers to carry firearms, execute and serve search and arrest warrants, serve subpoenas and summonses, and make arrests. Title V: Reporting Requirements - Directs the Attorney General, after consultation with the Secretaries of Agriculture, Commerce, Transportation, and the Treasury, to report to Congress on developments in vehicle identification of off-road motor vehicles.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1978
Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to provide transportation to the Girl Scouts of the United States to international world friendship events or troops on foreign soil meetings which occur outside the United States. Requires the Girl Scouts to reimburse the Government for the actual cost of such transportation.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1978
Repeals provisions of existing law which: (1) prohibit religious or charitable corporations or associations from holding real estate in any territory of a value greater than $50,000; and (2) authorize religious societies to hold, through trustees, territorial real property for churches, parsonages, and burial grounds.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1978
International Air Transportation Competition Act - Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to direct the Civil Aeronautics Board to consider competition in international air transportation and the need to provide domestic route authority to United States international carriers as being in the public interest. Directs the Board to permit air carriers to organize charter trips in foreign air transportation and to sell them directly to the public. Establishes a graduated permissible level of such trips over a three-year period. Allows specified air carriers holding certificates authorizing supplemental air transportation to obtain certificates to engage in scheduled foreign air transportation in up to five nonstop city-pair markets. Removes the requirement that the Board conduct public hearings when issuing permits authorizing foreign air carriers to engage in foreign air transportation. Creates a rebuttable presumption that any consolidation or merger of an air carrier and a supplemental air carrier is in the public interest. Prohibits the Board from approving any agreement affecting foreign air transportation which limits the level of capacity among air carriers and foreign air carriers in markets in which they compete or which fixes rates between air carriers and foreign air carriers. Requires the Board to submit any proposed order which suspends, rejects, or cancels a rate, fare, or charge for foreign air transportation by a foreign air carrier before its publication to the President. Gives the President ten days in which to disapprove such an order and stipulates that such disapproval must be on national defense or foreign policy grounds. Establishes within the Executive Office of the President an Office of International Aviation Negotiations. Stipulates that the Director of such Office shall be the chief representative of the United States in all negotiations dealing with international aviation. Authorizes appropriations in such amounts as may be necessary to the Office to carry out its functions. Stipulates that the international aviation negotiation policy of the United States shall be coordinated by a permanent Aviation Policy Committee to be chaired by the Director of the Office. Requires the Committee to consult regularly with the International Aviation Advisory Council which shall be comprised of individuals representing a wide spectrum of views and interests. Declares the intent of Congress that the Aviation Policy Committee should develop a negotiating position which emphasizes the greatest degree of competition that is compatible with a well-functioning international air transportation system.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 1978
Waives certain requirements of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 with respect to the consideration of S. 3279 (Aircraft noise standards compliance assistance).
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1978
Aircraft and Airport Noise Reduction Act - Title I: Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish a single system of measuring noise and the impact of noise on individuals to be used to measure noise at airports and their surrounding areas and to establish land uses for such areas which are compatible with such noise levels. Allows airport operators to submit noise impact maps to the Secretary setting forth the noncompatible uses in each area of the map, a description of the projected aircraft operations during 1985, and the ways in which such operations will affect such map. Requires the revision of such maps when changes in airports operations would create any new noncompatible use in areas surrounding an airport. Amends the Airport and Airway Development Act to authorize the Secretary to make grants to qualified airports for noise compatibility planning. Defines "noise compatibility planning" as the preparation of noise impact maps and noise compatibility programs under this Act. Sets forth limitation regarding the amounts which may be obligated through such grant program. Authorizes appropriations of $15,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 1979 and beyond to carry out such grant program. Stipulates that noise compatibility programs filed with the Secretary pursuant to this Act shall include measures proposed by airport operators for the reduction of existing noncompatible uses and the prevention of the introduction of additional noncompatible uses with the area covered by the operator's noise impact map. Sets forth factors which the Secretary is to rely on in approving or disapproving noise compatability programs. Stipulates that the Federal share of an approved program shall be 80 percent of its cost. Authorizes the Secretary to make additional grants to operators of airports for projects to carry out a noise compatability program developed prior to the enactment of this Act or the promulgation of its implementing regulations under specified conditions. Authorizes appropriations for each of the fiscal years 1979 and 1980 to carry out such grant program. Authorizes the Secretary to make loans to airport operators for the purpose of acquiring real property impacted by aircraft noise in accordance with an approved noise compatability plan. Stipulates that such a loan may not exceed 80 percent of the cost of the real property acquired. Establishes within the Treasury the Aircraft Noise Impacted Real Property Acquisition Revolving Loan Fund to fund such loan program through fiscal year 1990. Requires the transfer of $300,000,000 from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund to such fund at the close of fiscal year 1979. Stipulates that any balance in the fund after 1995 shall revert to the Airport and Airway Trust Fund. Requires the Secretary to prepare impact noise maps and noise compatability programs for specified airports near the District of Columbia. Places additional legal proof requirements on a person suing for damages as a result of airport noise. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study to determine the effectiveness of airport noise compatability planning and programs. Title II: Increases specified appropriations authorized for fiscal years 1979 and 1980 under the Airport and Airway Development Act of 1970. Increases the Federal share of an approved project under such Act for fiscal years 1979 and 1980 from 80 percent to 90 percent of its cost. Title III : Directs the Secretary to publish a list of operators of United States civil subsonic turbojet powered aircraft above a specified weight which do not comply with noise standards prescribed for new subsonic aircraft in regulations issued by the Secretary and in effect on January 1, 1977. Authorizes the Secretary to waive noise requirements for the operation of two-or three engine noncomplying aircraft beyond January 1, 1985 if the operator has entered into a binding contract by January 1, 1983, for the purchase of a replacement aircraft which meets the noise standards for new aircraft set forth in regulations on March 2, 1978. Authorizes the Secretary to provide waivers from the noise regulations in effect on January 1, 1977, where the operator has made a good faith effort to comply with such regulations for such a period as the Secretary determines to be reasonable to permit compliance. Requires operators names in the Secretary's list to impose a two percent noise abatement charges for the domestic carriage of persons or property. Allows operators engaging in foreign air commerce and foreign air carriers who voluntarily agree to meet Federal noise requirements to impose a three dollar noise abatement charge for passengers subject to the three dollar departure tax for use of international travel facilities. Stipulates that the three dollar noise abatement charge shall continue to be imposed until 60 days after the date that carriers engaging in foreign air transportation and foreign air carriers operating aircraft within the United States have either certified that they will voluntarily comply with Federal noise regulations or are required to do so by regulations issued by the Secretary. Establishes different noise abatement charges at such time based on the termination points for flights originating in the United States. Requires any operator whose fleet is not fully in compliance with all applicable Federal noise regulations to utilize the revenues from noise abatement charges solely for the purpose of bringing the fleet into compliance with such regulations. Grants the Civil Aeronautics Board the authority to increase, decrease, or eliminate noise abatement charges for specified time periods. Requires the Board to review such charges and promulgate a rule to determine if the charges should be modified. Terminates domestic noise abatement charges 60 months after implementation and terminates international charges 120 months after implementation. Directs the Federal Aviation Administration to require all aircraft operated by international operators in the United States to meet the noise level standards contained in part 36 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, or annex 16 of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) if by January 1, 1980, ICAO does not reach an agreement on noise standards and an international schedule for compliance. Title IV: Reduces the passenger ticket tax for domestic air transportation from eight percent to six percent for a period of five years. Suspends the three dollar international head tax for use of international air travel facilities where a noise abatement charge is in effect for a period of ten years. Reduces the tax on the transportation of property by air from five percent to three percent for a period of five years.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1978
Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to: (1) provide that the Interstate Commerce Commission may not suspend rate increases based upon findings that the carrier has "market dominance" over the service to which such rate increase applies; (2) extend until January 1, 1983, the limitation on the Commission's power to suspend rate schedules; and (3) provide that the limitations on the Commission's power to suspend such rates apply only if the aggregate of rate increases and decreases in any calendar year is not greater than seven percent of the rate in effect on January 1st of that year.
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 1978
Requires the Secretary of the Interior to convey to each of the several States which have submitted an application meeting specified requirements those public lands which as a result of land grants made to railroads under any Act of Congress or as a result of other specified grants are intermingled with lands not owned by the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1978
Disapproves the suspension of the quota on imported meat and the President's announced intention of permitting the import this year of 200,000,000 pounds of meat in excess of the established limit before imposing new quotas.
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1978
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow public utilities to exclude from gross income, as contributions to capital, all amounts received in aid of construction of electric energy, steam, or gas facilities.
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 1978
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Secretary of State: (1) make every effort to negotiate an agreement with Canada to preserve our mutual airshed, protect air resources, and maintain air quality; and (2) take whatever diplomatic actions necessary to reduce or eliminate any undesirable impact on both countries resulting from air pollution from any source.
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 1978
Safety Act Amendments - Amends the Federal Railroad Safety Act of 1970 to stipulate that a State may bring an action to enforce railroad safety rules, regulations, or orders where the Secretary of Transportation has failed to act within 90 days after being notified of a safety violation by the investigating State agency (previously a State could commence an action where the Secretary had failed to act within 90 days after the violation occurred). Removes the authority of the National Transportation Safety Board to investigate rail accidents. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1979 and 1980 to carry out the provisions of such Act. Amends the Hours of Service Act to restrict its application to common carriers by railroad engaging in interstate or foreign commerce. Vests the authority to assess civil penalties for improperly equipped railroad cars with the Secretary of Transportation. Amends the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 to eliminate the $100,000,000 ceiling on the purchase of trustee certificates of railroads in reorganization by the Secretary of Transportation. Stipulates that the Secretary's authority to make commitments to purchase railroad redeemable preference shares under such Act shall terminate on September 30, 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 1978
Amends the North Pacific Fisheries Act of 1954 to define: (1) "fishery conservation zone of the United States" to mean the zone established by the Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976, and (2) "fishing vessel" to mean vessels engaged in the catching, processing, or transporting of fish in the Convention area (North Pacific Ocean waters and adjacent seas), or vessels outfitted for such activities, or vessels in normal support of such a vessel. Amends such Act to authorize the Secretary of State (under present law the President), with the concurrence of the Secretary of Commerce, to accept or reject certain recommendations made by the International North Pacific Fisheries Commission. Amends such Act to require the Secretary of Commerce (1) to enforce all provisions of this Act and the International Convention for the High Seas Fisheries of the North Pacific Ocean, and (2) to adopt regulations in consultation with the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating, to carry out the objectives of this Act and the Convention. Stipulates that the Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall enforce this Act. Specifies certain enforcement powers granted to enforcement officers. Allows enforcement officers to enforce the provisions of the Convention or this Act in the Convention area outside the U.S. fishery conservation zone and similar zones of Canada and Japan. Includes among the powers granted such officers, the power to board any vessel of Canada or Japan fishing for anadromous species and to inspect such vessel. Makes it unlawful for any person to violate any provision of the Convention or this Act; to refuse to permit an enforcement officer to board and inspect any fishing vessel; to forcibly assault or resist any such enforcement officer; and to interfere with the apprehension of any other person who has committed an act prohibited by this Act. Subjects any person found guilty of a civil violation to a fine not to exceed $25,000 for each violation. Makes any person found guilty of a criminal offense punishable by a fine of not more than $50,000 or by imprisonment of not more than six months or both, except that, if in the commission of any offense, the person uses a dangerous weapon or engages in conduct that causes bodily injury to any authorizing enforcement officer, the offense is punishable by a fine of not more than $100,000 or imprisonment of not more than ten years or both. Provides that authorized funds pursuant to this Act may be used to carry out other research and observer programs established pursuant to the Convention. Provides that each Canadian or Japanese fishing vessel which is authorized to fish within the U.S. fishery conservation zone shall have on board a registration permit setting forth the terms and conditions contained in the Convention that apply with respect to such operations. Declares that the objective of the Convention shall be interpreted to protect the North American salmon and the reduction or elimination of the incidental taking of marine mammals. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to take such actions to assure the full implementation of marine mammal research and the reduction or elimination of the incidental taking of marine mammals, including the placement of duly authorized agents on board Japanese fishing vessels for scientific observations relating to the incidental taking of marine mammals. Requires the Secretary of Commerce, after consultation with the Secretary of State, to report to Congress on the steps taken to implement the Convention and the results of all research carried out pursuant to the Convention, including estimates of the incidental taking of the Dall's porpoise.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1978
Investment Incentive Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to restore part of the pre-1969 tax treatment of capital gains by repealing the capital gains item of tax preference for the minimum tax; lowering the corporate alternative tax to 25 percent of net capital gain; and lowering the alternative individual tax to 25 percent of net capital gain.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1978
Aircraft and Airport Noise Reduction Act - Title I: Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish a single system of measuring noise and the impact of noise on individuals to be used to measure noise at airports and their surrounding areas and to establish land uses for such areas which are compatible with such noise levels. Allows airport operators to submit noise impact maps to the Secretary setting forth the noncompatible uses in each area of the map, a description of the projected aircraft operations during 1985, and the ways in which such operations will affect such map. Requires the revision of such maps when changes in airports operations would create any new noncompatible use in areas surrounding an airport. Amends the Airport and Airway Development Act to authorize the Secretary to make grants to qualified airports for noise compatibility planning. Defines "noise compatibility planning" as the preparation of noise impact maps and noise compatibility programs under this Act. Sets forth limitation regarding the amounts which may be obligated through such grant program. Authorizes appropriations of $15,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 1979 and beyond to carry out such grant program. Stipulates that noise compatibility programs filed with the Secretary pursuant to this Act shall include measures proposed by airport operators for the reduction of existing noncompatible uses and the prevention of the introduction of additional noncompatible uses with the area covered by the operator's noise impact map. Sets forth factors which the Secretary is to rely on in approving noise compatibility programs. Stipulates that the Federal share of an approved program shall be 80 percent of its cost. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1979 and 1980 to carry out such grant program. Requires the Secretary to prepare noise impact maps and noise compatibility programs for specified airports near the District of Columbia. Places additional legal proof requirements on a person suing for damages as a result of airport noise. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study to determine the effectiveness of such airport noise compatibility planning. Title II: Increases specified appropriations authorized for fiscal years 1979 and 1980 under the Airport and Airway Development Act of 1970. Increases from 80 to 90 percent the Federal share of approved projects under such Act for fiscal years 1979 and 1980. Requires prior approval by any incorporated village located within five miles of any general aviation airport located astride a line separating two counties within a single State before the Secretary may approve any runway construction or extension project for such airport. Title III: Directs the Secretary to publish a list of operators of United States civil subsonic turbojet powered aircraft above a specified weight which do not comply with noise standards prescribed for new subsonic aircraft in regulations issued by the Secretary and in effect on January 1, 1977. Requires such operators to submit to the Secretary a statement that such aircraft will comply with such standards, the methods by which such compliance shall be attained, either by retrofitting or replacement. Authorizes the Secretary to guarantee loans to eligible air carriers for the purchase of new replacement aircraft in order to comply with specified noise level requirements. Specifies certain restrictions on such loan guarantees. Stipulates that no such guarantees will be made after January 1, 1990. Prohibits any noncomplying aircraft from operating in the United States after January 1, 1985. Authorizes the Secretary to waive such operation deadline for certain noncomplying aircraft. Sets aside $1,000,000,000 in the Airport and Airway Trust Fund in the United States Treasury to be used for such aircraft loan guarantee program.
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 1978
Railroad Amendments Act - Title I: Local Rail Services - Declares that the policy of this Act is to provide Federal assistance in the provision of adequate transportation service to shippers and communities served by light density rail lines. Amends the Department of Transportation Act to stipulate that the rail freight service continuation payments made to States under such Act shall cover the difference between the revenues which are attributable to a line of railroad and the avoidable cost of providing rail freight service on such line, together with a reasonable return on the value of such line. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make rail freight assistance available to States: (1) for the acquisition, by purchase or otherwise, of rail lines or property; (2) for the cost of constructing rail or rail related facilities to improve local rail freight service; and (3) the cost of innovative experimental programs which are designed to improve service on eligible rail lines and which involve cooperative action between State and local communities and railroad industry representatives or shippers. Revises the cost sharing formula for rail freight assistance programs under such Act to stipulate that the Federal share of such a program shall be 80 percent of its cost. Stipulates that the State share of such a project may be made in cash, through the forgiveness of State tax imposed on a railroad or through the provision, by the State or by an individual or entity on behalf of the State, of real or personal tangible property for use in its rail service assistance program. Sets forth a formula for computing the dollar amount of assistance which may be made available to a State for rail freight assistance. Sets forth the eligibility requirements for funding rail service assistance projects. Directs the Secretary to promulgate regulations establishing criteria for determining the ratio of benefits to costs of proposed projects eligible for specified assistance under such Act. Requires States to use the Federal rail rehabilitation assistance provided under such Act in a specified manner. Directs States to make grants or loans to the owners of rail properties or the operators of rail service related to such a rehabilitation project. Title II: Amendments to the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 - Amends the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 to prohibit the use of proceeds from the sale of anticipation notes of the Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Fund for the payment of interest on such notes. Prohibits the obligation of money in the Fund for any purpose without prior approval thereof in an annual appropriations Act. Revises the factor dealing with a railroad's rate of return on total capital which the Secretary of Transportation is to consider in determining whether to make rehabilitation and improvement financing available under such Act. Removes the total dollar limitation on the use of proceeds from Fund anticipation notes for use by the Secretary of Transportation in purchasing trustee certificates. Stipulates that Fund anticipation notes sold by the Secretary to the Secretary of the Treasury shall be subject to such terms, conditions, and interest rates as the Secretary of the Treasury may prescribe. Establishes a minimum interest rate for such notes. Stipulates that if the Congress does not enact legislation authorizing the issuance of Fund bonds by September 30, 1979 the Secretary of Transportation shall hold in trust all redeemable preference shares issued by railroads which are held in the Fund, and the Fund shall then terminate. Repeals the authorization for appropriations contained in such Act for Fund notes.
United States · United States Congress · 20 April 1978
Older Americans Act Amendments - Title I: Amendments to the Older Americans Act of 1965 - Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1981 for the National Information and Resource Clearing House for the Aging. Authorizes a recipient of a grant under the Older Americans Act of 1965 to enter into an agreement with a profitmaking organization to carry out the provisions of such Act. Declares it to be the purpose of Title III of such Act (Grants for State and Community Programs on Aging) to encourage and assist State and local agencies to concentrate resources to serve older persons by entering into new cooperative arrangements with providers of social or nutrition services, multipurpose senior centers, or legal services, for the planning and provision of social services, nutrition services, multipurpose senior centers, or legal services. Defines terms used in such Title. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1979, 1980, and 1981 for grants approved under such Title. Requires each State, to be eligible to receive a grant under such Title, to designate a State agency as the sole State agency: (1) to develop and administer a State plan formulated pursuant to this Act; and (2) to divide the State into areas and to designate as a planning and service area any unit of general purpose local government which has a population of 50,000 or more individuals aged 60 or over which contains 15 percent or more of the State population aged 60 or over. Requires each such area agency on aging to prepare and develop an area plan. Sets forth specified material to be included in such plan. Requires each State, in order to be eligible for grants under such Title, to submit to the Commissioner on Aging a State plan. Sets forth specified material to be included in such plan. Requires the Commissioner to make grants to States for any of the following social services: (1) health, continuing education, welfare, informational, recreational, homemaker, counseling, or referral services; (2) transportation services to facilitate access to social services or nutrition services, or both; (3) services to assist older persons to use the services available to them; (4) services to assist older persons to obtain adequate housing; including residential repair and renovation projects; (5) services designed to assist older persons in avoiding institutionalization, including preinstitution evaluation and screening and home health services, homemaker services, shopping services, escort services, reader services, letter writing services, and other services to assist independent living in a home environment; (6) services to provide legal and counseling assistance; (7) services to enable older persons to attain and maintain physical and mental well-being through programs of regular physical activity; or (8) any other services meeting standards prescribed by the Commissioner and necessary for the general welfare of older persons. Requires the Commissioner to make grants to States for: (1) the establishment and operation of nutrition projects for older persons which, five or more days a week, provides, in a congregate setting, at least one meal per day each of which assures a minimum of one- third of the daily recommended dietary allowances; (2) the establishment and operation of multipurpose senior centers for the organization and provision of a broad spectrum of social services or nutrition services, or both, for older persons; (3) the provision of legal services for the elderly; and (4) the conduct of projects under which a State long-term care ombudsman receives and investigates complaints made by or on behalf of older persons who are residents of long-term care facilities relating to administrative action which may adversely affect the health, safety, welfare, or rights of such residents. Declares that, under the Act, a national manpower policy shall be developed for the field of aging which will reflect the present and future needs for training personnel in all programs serving the elderly. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants for the purpose of conducting studies on: (1) the utilization of services under this Act and other programs for the elderly, with special attention to accessibility to low-income and minority elderly; (2) the problems of State and area agencies on aging and other service providers in operating transportation services, (3) the impact of this Act and other programs in meeting the long-range needs of the elderly population; and (4) the differences in unit costs, service delivery and access between rural areas and urban areas for services assisted under this Act and the special needs of the elderly residing in rural areas. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to develop and operate statewide, regional, metropolitan area, county, city, or community model projects which will demonstrate methods to expand or improve social services and promote the well-being of older persons. Requires the Commissioner in making such grants to give special consideration to projects designed: (1) to assist in meeting the housing needs of older persons; (2) to provide continuing education to older persons; (3) to provide preretirement education information; (4) to provide services to assist in meeting the particular needs of physically and mentally impaired older persons; (5) to meet the special needs of, and improve the delivery of services to older persons who are not receiving adequate services under other provisions of this Act; and (6) to assist older persons to remain within their communities and out of institutions. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to and enter into contracts with appropriate bodies to support programs of legal services and ombudsman programs established under provisions of this Act. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to support the development of comprehensive, coordinated systems of community long-term care for older persons. Requires such grants to be used for the development of programs which provide a full continuum of services supporting alternatives to institutional living, including: (1) adult day health; (2) individual assessment of need, service plan development, monitoring, and evaluation of service effectiveness; (3) supported living in public and private, nonprofit housing; (4) family respite services; (5) preventative health services; (6) home health, homemaker, and other rehabilitative and maintenance in-home services; (7) geriatric health maintenance organizations; and (8) other services which the Commissioner determines are appropriate. Redesignates Title IV (Training and Research) of the Act "Training, Research, and Demonstration. Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1981 for multidisciplinary centers of gerontology. Redesignates Title V of the Act "Grants for Indian Tribes. Authorizes the Commissioner, under the Act, to make grants to eligible tribal organizations, as defined in this Act, to pay all of the costs for the delivery of social and nutritional services for Indians who are older persons. Sets forth criteria for applications for such grants. Authorizes the Commissioner to delegate to the Secretary of the Interior or to the head of the Bureau of Indian Affairs any functions under this title. Redesignates Title VI of the Act "Community Service Employment for Older Americans." States that such Title may be cited as the Older American Community Service Employment Act. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to estabLish an older American community service employment program to promote part-time opportunities in community service activities for unemployed, low-income persons 55 years old who have poor employment prospects. States that eligible individuals employed in such projects shall not be considered to be Federal employees. Provides that in awarding grants or contracts for such projects the Secretary shall give special consideration to national organizations which have a proven ability to provide older persons with employment. Sets forth the definitions of terms used in this Title. Title II: White House Conference on Aging - States that this Title may be cited as the 1981 White House Conference on Aging Act. Declares it the policy of the Congress that the Federal Government should work with the States and citizens to develop recommendations and plans to meet the needs of older persons. Requires that programs developed under this Act place emphasis upon the right of older persons to free choice and self-help in planning their futures. Authorizes the President of the United States to call a White House Conference on Aging in 1981 to develop recommendations for research and action in the field of aging. Requires the Conference to include representatives of Federal, State, and local governments, professional and lay people working in the field of aging including older persons. Directs that a final report of the White House Conference, containing a comprehensive statement of a coherent national policy on aging and the recommendations of such Conference, be submitted to the President and Congress within a specified time. Sets forth the responsibilities and duties of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare in administering this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish an advisory committee to the Conference and such other technical committees as may be necessary to carry out such Conference. Title III: Study of Racial and Ethnic Discrimination in Programs for Older Americans - Directs the Commission on Civil Rights: (1) to undertake a comprehensive study of discrimination based on race or ethnic background in any federally assisted programs and activities which affect older persons; and (2) to identify any federally assisted activity in which persons or organizations who are otherwise qualified being, on the basis of race or ethnic background, excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, refused employment or contracts with, or subject to discrimination under, such activity.
United States · United States Congress · 18 April 1978
Amends the Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976 to: (1) include the Northern Mariana Islands within the definition of "State"; (2) include the Northern Mariana Islands in the Western Pacific Council; and (3) increase the number of voting members on the Council.
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1978
Defines "excess animals" for purposes of the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to transfer excess animals for domestic use and provides for automatic transfer of title of such animals following one year of humane treatment. Enumerates the conditions under which such animals or their remains shall lose their status as wild free-roaming horses and burros.
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1978
Expressess the sense of the Senate that all efforts to bring major league baseball back to Washington, District of Columbia, should be assisted and encouraged to the full extent it is proper to do so.
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1978
Declares that certain proposed regulations of the Department of the Treasury regarding centralized firearms sales recordkeeping and other firearms control measures exceed the Department's authority, and directs that the regulations be withdrawn.
United States · United States Congress · 12 April 1978
Public Telecommunications Financing Act - Title I: Construction and Planning of Facilities - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to establish new procedures for the planning and construction of public telecommunications facilities. Sets forth new requirements for the application to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting for construction grants. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce, upon approving an application with respect to any project for the construction of public telecommunications facilities, to make a grant of up to 75 percent of the cost of such project. Authorizes the Secretary to provide such funds as the Secretary deems necessary for the planning of such projects. Provides for the repayment of such grants if the recipient station ceases to be used for public radio or television purposes. Requires the Secretary, in consultation with the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, to establish criteria for making construction and planning grants. Requires the Secretary to develop a long-range plan to: (1) extend delivery or public telecommunications services to as many citizens of the United States as possible; (2) increase public telecommunications services and facilities available to and owned by minorities and women; and (3) strengthen the capability of existing public television and radio stations to provide educational and cultural services to the public. Title II: Telecommunications Demonstrations - Authorizes the appropriation of $1,000,000 for fiscal year 1979 to be available to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare for disbursement as grants for demonstration projects in the improvement of public telecommunications services. Title III: Corporation for Public Broadcasting - Authorizes appropriations to the Public Broadcasting Fund for fiscal years 1978 through 1983. Requires the Corporation for Public Broadcasting to develop a system to be used by all public broadcast licensees receiving funds under this Act to account for all funds received and expended for public broadcasting purposes. Requires equal opportunity in employment to be afforded to all qualified persons by all public telecommunications entities receiving funds under this Act. Title IV: General Provisions - Defines terms used in this Act and amends existing definitions to conform to the amendments made by this Act to the Communications Act of 1934.
United States · United States Congress · 12 April 1978
Public Broadcasting Financing Act - Title I: Construction and Planning of Facilities - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to establish new procedures for the planning and construction of public telecommunications facilities. Sets forth new requirements for the application to the Corporation for construction grants. Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to administrator such grants made before October 1, 1978. Provides for the repayment of such grants if the recipient station ceases to be used for public radio or television purposes. States that such applications must include a five-year plan outlining the applicant's projected facilities requirements and must contain assurance that the planned facilities will be used only for educational or cultural purposes. Title II: Telecommunications Demonstrations - Authorizes the appropriation of $1,000,000 for fiscal year 1979 to be available to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare for disbursement as grants for demonstration projects in the improvement of public telecommunications services. Title III: Corporation for Public Broadcasting - Subjects the Corporation for Public Broadcasting to the requirements of Title VI (Equal Employment Opportunities) of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and Title IX (prohibition of discrimination in education because of sex or blindness) of the Education Amendments of 1972. Adds to the 15 member Presidentially-appointed board of directors of the Corporation, four members appointed by organizations representing public radio and television licensees. Provides for the reduction of such board by attrition to 15 members, 11 of whom shall be Presidentially-appointed. Terminates the provision for Presidential designation of the chairman of such board. States that the chairman shall be elected from the board membership. Establishes the Public Broadcasting Fund in the Treasury. Authorizes an appropriation of funds to such Fund and provides for annual contributions of public moneys to the Fund based on the amount of non-Federal financial support received by public broadcasting entities. Sets forth regulations governing the use of such Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 11 April 1978
Ocean Shipping Act - Amends the Shipping Act, 1916, to include "controlled carriers" within the coverage of such Act. Defines "controlled carrier" as a common carrier by water which operates or proposes to offer service in the foreign commerce of the United States where the carrier is owned or controlled by a government or governments. Prohibits such carriers from maintaining rates or charges in its tariffs filed with the Federal Maritime Commission which are below a level which is just and reasonable or from establishing unjust or unreasonable classifications, rules, or regulations in such tariffs. Authorizes the Commission to disapprove unreasonable or unjust tariff provisions after notice and hearing. Requires that such rates, classifications, rules and regulations be filed at least 30 days before they are to become effective. Authorizes the Commission to suspend such tariff provisions pending a determination as to their lawfulness. Stipulates that the regulations contained in this Act shall not apply to rates or classifications governing the transportation of cargo by a controlled carrier between the country which owns or controls the carrier and the United States or its territories or possessions. Exempts from the regulations contained in this Act controlled carriers of a state whose vessels are entitled to receive national or most-favored-nation treatment by treaty, controlled carriers of a State which has subscribed to the statement of shipping policy contained in note 1 to annex A of the Code of Liberalization of Current Invisible Operations, or to specified rate agreements or service agreements under the Shipping Act, 1916. Requires the Commission to transmit suspension or disapproval orders to the President concurrently with the publication of such an order. Authorizes the President to request the Commission to stay such an order for a period of 120 days if such stay is required for reasons of national defense or foreign policy. Requires the Commission to immediately grant such a request.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1978
Authorizes appropriations for the Coast Guard for fiscal years 1979 and 1980. Sets forth the authorized end strength level for active duty personnel and the average military training student load for the Coast Guard for such fiscal year. Amends the Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971 to authorize appropriations for State boating safety programs for such fiscal year. Authorizes the Coast Guard to enter into a long term lease for the purpose of acquiring land on the Quillayute Indian Reservation in the State of Washington in order to relocate the Quillayute River Coast Guard Station. Authorizes the Coast Guard to enter into a long term lease for its Aviation Training Center at Bates Field, Mobile, Alabama, and to expend funds for specified construction projects at such training center.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1978
Amends the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 to authorize appropriations for fiscal years 1979 and 1980 for the activities of the Marine Mammal Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1978
Amends the Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976 to extend authorization for appropriations to carry out the purposes of the Act for fiscal years 1979 and 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1978
Amends the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972, as amended, to 1980. Extend the authorization of appropriations for ocean dumping research for fiscal years 1979 and 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1978
Amends the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 to authorize appropriations to carry out the Act during fiscal years 1979 and 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1978
Amends the National Advisory Committee on Oceans and Atmosphere Act of 1977 to: (1) authorize appropriations to carry out the Act during fiscal years 1979 and 1980; and (2) establish expiration dates for terms of office of the original appointees of the Committee.
![Official portrait of Sen. Cannon, Howard W. [D-NV]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/c000120_200.jpg)