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United States · Official source
1,080 records where Sen. Cannon, Howard W. [D-NV] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years
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
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a taxpayer to elect either an income tax credit of $250 or an income tax deduction of $1,000 for maintaining a household which includes as a member a dependent age 65 or over.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1981
Changes from 90 to 180 days the time limitation under which the President may order members of the Selected Reserve to active duty other than during war or national emergency. Increases from 100,000 to 250,000 the number of members who may be so ordered. Authorizes the President, during such period, to suspend applicable law relating to promotion, retirement, or separation. Directs the President to give Congress written notification of any national security reasons requiring the extension of the time limit.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1981
Requests the President to designate the month of October 1981 as National PTA Membership Month.
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 · 30 July 1981
Directs the President to immediately begin consultation with the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for the purpose of modifying the Board of Governors' monetary policy to significantly reduce interest rates within the next 90 days. Requires such consultations to include modifications in the areas of: (1) reserve requirements; (2) Federal Open Market Committee activities; and (3) the Federal Reserve discount rate.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1981
Amends titles II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) and XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide for the appointment to the Board of Trustees of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund, the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund, the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund, and the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund of one representative of employers, one representative of employees, one representative of beneficiaries, and one individual highly qualified in the management of investment funds. Requires that investments made by the Board secure the maximum possible interest yield commensurate with the safety of the Trust Funds. Fixes the interest rates for public-debt obligations issued for purchase by the Trust Funds at the average market yield on all marketable interest bearing U.S. obligations forming part of the public debt, all marketable interest bearing obligations which are not U.S. obligations but which are guaranteed by the United States, and all marketable federally sponsored agency interest bearing obligations which are lawful investments for fiduciary and trust funds under Federal control. Authorizes the Managing Trustee to use the equipment and experts necessary to assure the maximum possible interest yield on Trust Fund investments.
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 · 15 July 1981
Radiation Exposure Compensation Act of 1981 - Makes the United States liable for damages to: (1) certain individuals who resided in the vicinity of or worked on the Nevada nuclear test site and were exposed to low-level radiation during specified periods; and (2) certain uranium miners in Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah who died from or contracted acute leukemia, lung cancer, or other cancer identified by the Advisory Panel on the Health Effects of Exposure to Radiation and Uranium. Extends such liability for damage to specified sheep herds caused by the Nancy nuclear detonation or the Harry nuclear detonation. Bars actions for damages under this Act after a specified date. Grants exclusive original jurisdiction to the appropriate district court for actions under this Act. Establishes, within the Department of Health and Human Services, an Advisory Panel on the Health Effects of Exposure to Radiation and Uranium. Directs the Advisory Panel to identify those cancers and diseases that are more likely to develop in human beings after exposure to low-level radiation or after working in uranium mines. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to appoint such personnel as may be necessary to enable the Advisory Panel to carry out its functions under this Act. Requires that the Administrator of the General Services Administration shall provide such administrative support services as the Advisory Panel may request. Directs the Advisory Panel to report its findings to Congress within one year. Exempts the Advisory Panel from the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act. Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary to assess the adverse health effects resulting from the atomic weapons test program at the Nevada test site. Transfers to the Department of Health and Human Services all functions of the Department of Energy concerning the health effects of radiation on human beings.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1981
Requests the President to designate the second full week in October of each year as "Legal Secretaries' Court Observance Week."
United States · United States Congress · 10 July 1981
Arid Lands Renewable Resources Corporation Act of 1981 - Title I: General Provisions - Declares the purpose of this Act to be to encourage private investment in developing domestic oil and rubber producing plants. Title II: Establishment of Corporation - Creates the Arid Lands Renewable Resources Corporation. Vests the Corporation's powers in a Board of Directors. Provides for the appointment of an Inspector General and an Advisory Committee to the Board of Directors. Title III: Production Goal of the Corporation - Requires the Board to develop and submit a comprehensive strategy plan to the Congress within one year of enactment of this Act. Sets forth procedures for: (1) congressional approval of such plan by joint resolution; (2) disapproval of a Corporation action by either House; and (3) congressional approval of an amendment to the plan by concurrent resolution. Directs the Corporation to periodically solicit arid lands resources proposals. Title IV: Financial Assistance - Authorizes the Corporation to provide financial assistance through price guarantees, loans, and joint ventures. Title V: Corporation Construction Projects - Authorizes the Corporation to own arid lands resources projects, including construction projects. Title VI: Capitalization and Finance - Authorizes the Corporation to issue obligations solely to the United States. Grants it tax free status. Title VI: Unlawful Acts, Penalties, and Suits Against the Corporation - Sets forth penalty and related provisions. Title VIII: General Provisions - Requires the Corporation to: (1) submit quarterly and annual reports to the President and the Congress; and (2) conduct a study of supplemental financial protection for lenders. Authorizes Western Hemisphere projects. Title IX: Disposal of Assets - Authorizes the Corporation to dispose of assets. Title X: Termination of Corporation - Sets forth termination provisions. Title XI: Department of the Treasury - Authorizes unspecified appropriations.
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 · 8 July 1981
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend tax-exempt status to veterans' organizations at least 75 percent of whose membership consists of past or present members of the armed forces of the United States (combat or noncombat veterans) and whose remaining membership consists substantially of cadets or spouses, widows, or widowers of armed forces personnel or cadets.
United States · United States Congress · 8 July 1981
Airline Deregulation Amendments Act of 1981 - Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to modify the definition of "ticket agent" as used in such Act. Directs air carriers to file with the Civil Aeronautics Board until December 31, 1982, individual and joint fares and charges, classifications, rules, and services for or in connection with interstate and overseas passenger air transportation. Requires that such filings shall be made to the Secretary of Transportation between January 1, 1983, and December 31, 1984. Prohibits air carriers and ticket agents from charging or collecting greater or less or different compensation than that specified in such filings. Transfers the authority of the Board relating to foreign air transportation to the Department of Transportation. Accelerates to January 1, 1983, the transfer of specified authority of the Board. Allows the Board to approve any contract or agreement that reduces or eliminates competition if it finds that the contract or agreement is necessary to secure important public benefits, including the marketing and sale of transportation through ticket agents. Sets forth the expiration dates for specified authority of the Secretary relating to contract approvals. Revises the expiration date and contents of the Secretary's (formerly the Board's) report to Congress concerning the implementation of such Act. Prohibits the Board from issuing any final order or rule in regard to agreements among air carriers and agreements among foreign air carriers insofar as those agreements provide for the accreditation and supervision of travel agents. Directs the Board to forward the recommendations and analyses concerning such proceedings to the Secretary for final disposition. Prohibits the Board and the Department from attaching an expiration date on any certificate of public convenience and necessity. Deletes provisions concerning the issuance of such certificates for temporary authority to provide air transportation. Permits an air carrier to file an application with the Secretary seeking to revoke a temporary or experimental certificate to engage in foreign air transportation. Directs the Secretary to grant such application according to specified criteria. Requires that each air carrier or foreign air carrier shall keep on file with the Board after January 1, 1983, the established divisions of all joint rates, fares, and charges for air transportation in which such carrier participates.
United States · United States Congress · 8 July 1981
Commends the disabled individuals who climbed Mount Rainier, Washington, on July 3, 1981.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 1981
Low-Income Fuel and Weatherization Supplementary Assistance Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to States to assist households with incomes below a specified level to meet home energy costs. Authorizes to be appropriated for fiscal years 1982 through 1986 to carry out such program 100 percent of all funds received by the Federal Government from collections and settlements for fuel overcharges, less all identifiable legitimate claims for such overcharges. Grants to the Governor of a State the discretion to allocate such grants as needed. Allocates funds for States, U.S. territories and possessions, and Indian tribes. Requires that a reasonable amount of such funds be reserved by each State for energy crisis intervention. Requires a State to submit to the Secretary an application for each fiscal year. Conditions allotments after the first fiscal year in which a State receives funds on the holding of public hearings in such State on the use and distribution of such funds. Requires that an applicant State agree to: (1) use such funds in accordance with this Act; (2) describe the households eligible for home energy assistance and give priority to certain households; (3) conduct outreach activities to inform people of the availability of such assistance; (4) coordinate activities with similar State and Federal programs; (5) describe the amount of assistance to be provided to participating households; (6) give special consideration in designating local administrative agencies to local public or private nonprofit agencies receiving funds under any other low-income energy assistance or weatherization program; (7) establish notification procedures in connection with direct payments by the State to home energy suppliers; (8) treat owners and renters equitably under the program under this Act; (9) use a maximum of ten percent of the State allotment for administrative expenses; (10) provide for fiscal control and fund accounting procedures and prepare an annual audit of expenditures under such program; and (11) cooperate with any Federal investigations pursuant to this Act. Requires the State to repay to the United States any amounts not expended under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to offset such amounts against future grants to such State. Prohibits exclusion from participation in, or denial of benefits from, any program or activity funded under this Act on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or handicap. Directs the Secretary to withhold funds from any State which does not use its allotment in accordance with this Act. Prohibits the Secretary from withholding funds from a State for a minor failure to comply with this Act. Requires the Secretary to conduct investigations in States to evaluate and insure compliance with this Act. Prohibits the use of grants under this Act for the purchase or improvement of land or for the purchase, construction, or permanent improvement of any building or facility, except under specified circumstances.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1981
Confirms the transfer of real property to California and Nevada on or before July 7, 1980, to clear title to certain lands pursuant to the boundary established between such States by the Supreme Court decision on such date.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1981
Requests the President to designate the week of September 6 through September 12, 1981, as "Older Americans Employment Opportunity Week."
United States · United States Congress · 19 June 1981
Uniform Motor Vehicle Standards Act of 1981 - Prohibits a State from establishing or enforcing any regulation of commerce that imposes a limitation of: (1) less than 102 inches on the overall width of commercial motor vehicles operating on the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways or other Federal-aid highways; and (2) less than 60 feet on the overall length of commercial motor vehicles operating in truck tractor-semitrailer combinations or less than 65 feet on the overall length of commercial motor vehicles operating in any other combination of units on such highways. Specifies that the total length of a single unit in such combinations shall not exceed 45 feet. Declares that a State shall prohibit neither commercial motor vehicle combinations consisting of a truck trailer and two trailing units on such highways nor impose a limitation of less than 65 feet for such combinations. Prohibits a State from enacting or enforcing any law that denies reasonable access to motor vehicles subject to this Act to and from the Interstate Highway System and the Federal-aid primary system. Directs the Secretary of Transportation or, upon request, the Attorney General, to institute a civil action for injunctive relief as may be appropriate to assure compliance with the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 June 1981
Expresses the recognition of the Senate of the fiftieth anniversary of Radio City Music Hall.
United States · United States Congress · 11 June 1981
Emergency Preparedness Act of 1981 - Title I: Standby Revenue Recycling Authority - Directs the President to submit to Congress a proposed standby plan which, when implemented, will permit the President to recycle Federal tax revenues both to State Governors for further distribution and to residents of the United States. Requires the proposed standby plan to provide for, among other things: (1) mitigation of extreme personal hardship caused by severe petroleum supply disruption; (2) national defense; (3) assurances that each U.S. resident is eligible for assistance; and (4) giving the highest priority to the enforcement of antitrust statutes that will guard against anticompetitiveness during severe petroleum supply disruptions. Provides that the recycling plan shall use a combination of emergency distribution of funds to State Governors, emergency charges in withholding rates, reductions in payroll taxes, additions to social security and income payments, or other distribution mechanisms. Requires the proposed plan to include adjustments and simplifications to the crude oil windfall profit tax that would eliminate the tax on oil discovered during and after a severe supply disruption and that would increase the tax rate on the incremental revenues resulting from the supply disruption. Prohibits the implementation of a proposed standby plan unless each House of Congress passes a resolution approving the plan within 60 days of receiving the plan. Authorizes the President to implement the plan whenever the President determines that a severe petroleum supply disruption exists and only with the passage of a joint resolution authorizing a specific amount of Federal tax revenues to be recycled. Authorizes the President to reimburse any State for expenses incurred in preparation for or execution of responsibilities delegated to such State. Title II: Use of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve - Requires the President to: (1) submit to Congress a report describing the advisability of competitive sales from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to ensure emergency access to crude oil for particularly affected refiners in lieu of a standby crude oil allocation program; and (2) submit an amendment to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve plan that incorporates procedures recommended by the study. Title III: Investigations and Reports - Directs the President to submit a report on the advisability and alternative means of: (1) reducing the tax liability of persons who draw down oil reserves during oil supply disruptions; and (2) providing tax or other incentives for the construction of private-sector oil storage facilities and the maintenance of increased private-sector oil reserves. Directs the President to submit a report on the manner in which oil stockpile and demand restraint measures have been and may be coordinated among some or all allies and trading partners.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1981
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise requirements for the exclusion of interest on mortgage subsidy bonds. Repeals provisions which allow tax-exempt status for such bonds if 95 percent of the mortgages financed by such issues are in compliance with stated requirements. Provides that a showing that the issuing authority has tried in good faith to satisfy all requirements will cure a failure to meet any particular requirement if such failure is corrected within a reasonable time after its discovery. Allows bondholders to rely upon an issuer's good faith covenant as to compliance. Revises the new homeowner requirements to allow eligibility for bond-financed mortgages for persons who are residing in substandard housing or who have lost their homes because of natural disasters or governmental action. Changes the method of determining the average area purchase price for purposes of the purchase price requirements for bond-financed mortgages. Specifies that the average area purchase price shall not include residences which are not typically financed through normal real estate mortgage loans and that such prices may be determined separately for new and previously occupied homes. Revises the arbitrage requirements to increase the amount by which interest rates on tax-exempt mortgage subsidy bonds may exceed the interest rates on mortgages financed with such bonds. Changes the method of determining the yield on an issue. Specifies that issuers are not required to dispose of any investment and realize a loss in order to satisfy arbitrage restrictions. Allows two or more qualified mortgage bond issues of a single issuer to be combined for purposes of determining compliance with arbitrage requirements. Permits issuers to maintain a reasonable reserve against investment losses and to allocate credits or payments between eligible mortgagors. Exempts mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration or guaranteed by the Veterans Administration from certain mortgage assumption requirements. Includes energy impacted areas within the definition of targeted areas for purposes of the special treatment of targeted area residences. Transfers to the States the authority to designate areas of chronic economic distress. Limits the designation of areas of chronic economic distress to 25 percent of the geographic area within a State. Redefines statistical areas to include two or more statistical areas combined. Repeals the registration requirements for bond issues.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1981
Requests the President to designate the week commencing June 14, 1981, as "National Softball Week."
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1981
Former Presidents Facilities and Services Reform Act of 1981 - Title I: Presidential Libraries - Directs the Administrator of General Services, in consultation with the Archivist of the United States and the Commissioner of the Public Buildings Service, to promulgate architectural and design standards for Presidential archival depositories. Authorizes the Administrator to accept, as private gifts or pursuant to agreements with State or local governments, institutes, or foundations, only such land, buildings, and equipment as are necessary to establish one depository in one building of a specified size for each President or former President. Requires the Administrator to submit a prospectus for each proposed depository to specified congressional committees. Prohibits the Administrator from accepting a gift or entering into an agreement to establish a depository if: (1) such committees adopt a resolution disapproving such prospectus within a specified period; or (2) the land, buildings, and equipment do not meet the architectural and design standards, unless Congress adopts a concurrent resolution approving the establishment of such depository regardless of noncompliance with such standards. Establishes similar restrictions governing changes to a depository. Requires the President, while holding office, to dispose of his or her Presidential records which have no administrative, historical, informational, or evidentiary value after obtaining the views of the Archivist of the United States concerning such disposal, unless the Archivist notifies the President that the Archivist intends to request advice from certain Congressional committees. Title II: Former Presidents - Changes the amount of the annual allowance to which the spouse of a deceased former President is entitled from $20,000 to two-thirds of the allowance to which a former President is entitled. Repeals the requirement that the spouse must waive the right to any other Government annuity or pension to qualify for such allowance. Authorizes the Administrator to provide to each former President, upon request: (1) one office; (2) compensation, without an aggregate ceiling, for members of an office staff who shall be subject to certain provisions of civil service laws; (3) payment for the travel and subsistence allowances for specified office employees; (4) communications services; and (5) printing and binding expenses. Allows any Federal employee to be detailed to the office staff of a former President with the consent of the employee's agency head. Authorizes the Administrator to provide a former Vice President with necessary services and facilities for winding up his or her office affairs which are similar to the services and facilities provided to a former President under this title. Prohibits the use of funds provided for necessary services and facilities of a former President or Vice President for partisan political activities or income generating activities. Permits a former President to use such funds to prepare his or her memoirs if the former President signs an agreement providing that the Public Printer will print and distribute such memoirs. Prohibits the expenditure of such funds for a former President any time beyond 90 days after the former President dies. Requires each former President to submit to Congress an annual report concerning activities carried out with the assistance of such funds. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the provisions of this title concerning the services and facilities to be provided for former Presidents and Vice Presidents. Repeals specified provisions of the Presidential Transition Act of 1963. Title III: Protection of Former Presidents, Former Vice Presidents, and Their Families - Prohibits the United States Secret Service from protecting a former President, former Vice President, or the spouse, widow, widower, or minor child of a former President except as authorized under this title. Authorizes the Secret Service to protect: (1) a former President for eight years after the individual becomes a former President; (2) the spouse or minor child of a former President to the extent that such protection is incidental to the protection of the former President; and (3) the widow or widower of a former President for six months after the former President dies. Permits the Secretary of the Treasury to reinstate the Secret Service protection of a former President for one year and of a spouse or minor child for six months after the original protection has been terminated upon finding that a serious threat warranting such protection exists. Authorizes additional extensions of such periods of protection upon the individual's written request and with the approval of an existing advisory committee established to determine whether protection should be furnished to certain Presidential or Vice Presidential candidates. Establishes the Advisory Panel on Secret Service Protection to review requests for extended protection and to make recommendations on such requests to such advisory committee. Permits the Secretary to authorize Secret Service protection for a former Vice President for a period beginning on the last day of the individual's Vice Presidential term and ending on the last day of the fiscal year in which the term expires, upon the former Vice President's written request, and upon finding that a threat exists which warrants such protection.
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1981
World War I Veterans Service Pension Act of 1981 - Requires the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to pay (in addition to any pension already paid) a monthly pension of $150: (1) to each veteran of World War I who meets specified service requirements; (2) to the surviving spouse of each such veteran; or (3) when there is no surviving spouse, to the child or children of each such veteran.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Retail Dealers' Agreement Act - Makes it a violation of this Act for any supplier of office products to: (1) induce a dealer in such products to enter into a dealer agreement by fraud; (2) fail to act in good faith in performing, canceling, terminating, or refusing to renew a dealer agreement; or (3) enter into a dealer agreement whereby the dealer will conduct business in a market area which is already the market area of another dealer without providing 60 days notice to the existing dealer. Requires a Federal district court to determine the propriety of the proposed dealership in accordance with specified guidelines in the event the existing dealer objects to its establishment. Includes among such guidelines: (1) whether the additional dealership is warranted by current economic and marketing conditions; (2) the permanency of the investment of the objecting dealer; and (3) whether the objecting dealer is providing adequate competition and sales, convenient service, and adequate facilities, equipment, and parts. Stipulates that the desire for further market penetration shall not in itself justify the establishment of a new dealership. Authorizes a dealer to bring an action against a supplier in Federal district court for damages, equitable relief, and attorney fees and other costs. Permits an award of treble damages for willful violations. Stipulates that this Act shall not be construed to modify any provision of the antitrust laws.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from gross income $1,000 ($2,000 for joint returns) of the interest earned on an All Savers Certificate in taxable years 1981, 1982, and 1983.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Airport and Airway Revenue Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise the rate of tax imposed on fuel used in noncommercial aviation. Extends such tax to October 1, 1985. Reduces the airline ticket tax for individual travel from eight to three percent and the tax on the transportation of property from five to two percent. Extends the latter tax to September 30, 1985. Reinstates, and increases the rate of, the tax on the use of international travel facilities. Extends, to October 1, 1985, the tax on the taxable use of civil aircraft in commercial aviation. Amends the Airport and Airway Revenue Act of 1970 to continue the transfers of such taxes to the Airport and Airway Trust Fund until October 1, 1985. Extends, to such date, the availability of Trust Fund assets for specified expenditures.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to exclude from the definition of food additive the food itself, a combination of foods, or foods for special dietary use, or the ingredients thereof, unless being used as preservatives or flavors for a food. Provides that foods for special dietary use, or for preservation or treatment of dietary deficiency conditions, shall not be classified as drugs.
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1981
Olympic Coin Act of 1981 - Declares the purposes of this Act to be: (1) to provide for the minting of coins to commemorate the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games; and (2) to help finance those games without the use of tax revenues. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint: (1) not more than 30,000,000 copper-nickel clad coins with a face value of one dollar; (2) not more than 22,400,000 silver coins with a face value of ten dollars; (3) not more than 2,400,000 gold coins with a face value of fifty dollars; and (4) not more than 1,600,000 gold coins with a face value of one hundred dollars. Specifies the size and weight of such coins. Specifies that the designs of such coins shall be determined by the Secretary in consultation with the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee. Sets certain minting specifications for such coins. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into an agreement with the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee which shall provide for the implementation of the purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary to furnish such coins to the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee at a price agreed to pursuant to such implementation agreement. Provides that all coins minted shall be delivered to the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee for distribution and sale to the public in accordance with the terms of the implementation agreement. Sets the delivery date for each series of coins. Provides that all proceeds received by the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee from the commercial sale of such coins shall be used for the purpose of staging and promoting the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games and assisting the U.S. Olympic Committee and amateur athletics. Provides that all coins authorized by this Act shall be legal tender. Directs that no coins shall be minted pursuant to this Act after December 31, 1984.
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1981
Public Land Reform Act of 1981 - Title I: Short Title; Findings and Declaration of Policy; Definitions - Declares that the Federal Government retains ownership of substantial territory considered unreserved unappropriated public lands in States wholly west of the one-hundredth meridian. Provides that it is the policy of this Act to place all such lands, presently held in trust for the States in which they are situated, in State ownership. Excludes from the definition of unreserved unappropriated public lands the following: (1) lands within the boundaries of national parks, national monuments, and national wildlife and migratory bird sanctuaries established prior to May 1, 1981; (2) designated units of the National Wilderness Preservation System; (3) lands within boundaries of military and Indian reservations; (4) lands essential to the operation, maintenance, and access to the U.S. Water and Power Resources Services projects, and designated highways; (5) lands necessary to the operation, maintenance, and access to shipyards, docks, security and defense establishments, magazines, arsenals, and Federal buildings; and (6) lands selected under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act and other applicable law. Title II: Federal Land Transfer Board - Authorizes the Governor of any State seeking to acquire such unreserved and unappropriated lands to petition the President within ten years of the enactment of this Act to establish a Federal Land Transfer Board for such State. Directs the President to establish such a Board consisting of State and Federal members within 90 days of the receipt of such an application. States that the Board shall serve until all conveyances of such lands within the State are carried out. Requires each Federal Land Transfer Board to coordinate its activities with the State land management agency established pursuant to this Act. Directs each Board to carry out the required land transfers within two years of its determination that a State's application meets the requirements of this Act. Empowers the Land Transfer Boards to resolve land claims and disputes arising from the implementation of this Act. Grants any State aggrieved by a decision of a Land Transfer Board on its application the right to a public hearing and review before the Board. Empowers the United States courts of appeals to hear appeals from final orders of the Boards. States that judicial review shall be on the record made before the Board and that the Board's findings shall be conclusive if supported by substantial evidence. Prohibits members of the Board from directly or indirectly receiving compensation as a result of any land transfer carried out pursuant to this Act. Title III: State Land Management Agencies - Requires each State seeking the conveyance of unreserved and unappropriated land under this Act to establish a State land management agency to: (1) hold any transferred lands in trust for all people of the United States; (2) protect the interests of persons who have acquired rights in such land under Federal law; (3) provide for an ongoing inventory and study of public lands within the State with a view toward determining the best methods of management and utilization; (4) provide for the continued annual payments to units of local government in which entitlement lands are situated; (5) transfer to the United States those property interests necessary to continue lawful Federal activities; and (6) continue to administer lands previously administered by the United States pursuant to a treaty or interstate compact in conformance with the terms of such treaty or compact. Title IV: Conveyance From State Ownership - Prohibits any State from conveying lands conveyed to it by the Federal Land Transfer Board unless such land is difficult and uneconomic to manage, or no longer necessary for the purpose for which it was acquired, or its disposal will serve important public objectives. Title V: Miscellaneous - Declares that the United States shall retain control over the oceans, seas, navigable rivers, streams, lakes, and projects of the Corps of Engineers and Water and Power Resources Service. Directs the President to modify agreements with other nations if necessary to implement this Act. Grants the consent of Congress to any interstate compact relating to the management and use of such lands if it has been approved by the appropriate Federal Land Transfer Board. Grants the consent of Congress to any amendments to the Enabling Act of a State receiving a conveyance of land which may be necessary to revoke any disclaimer to title of public lands not granted by the United States to the State. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to report to the Congress, within 18 months of enactment of this Act, on the results of a study of the relative costs and benefits of Federal and State land management activities. Authorizes sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
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 · 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
Authorizes recreational use of Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Nevada.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1981
Expanded Ownership Act of 1981 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish, without expiration dates, an investment tax credit percentage income tax for contributions by an employer to a tax credit employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). Sets the amount of such credit at a sum equal to the lesser of: (1) the aggregate value of employer securities transferred for the taxable year to a tax credit ESOP; or (2) one percent of the aggregate compensation paid or accrued during the taxable year to all employees under such a plan. Includes amounts of the credit as part of the investment tax credit amount. Denies business expense, production of income expense, or contribution to deferred-payment plan deductions for amounts required to be transferred to a tax credit ESOP. Allows an employer to take advantage of the investment tax credit even though he or she contributes employer securities to an ESOP with an aggregate value of less than one percent of the qualified investment. Allows an income tax deduction for employer contributions to an ESOP which are applied to the repayment of principal and interest on a loan incurred for the purpose of acquiring qualifying employer securities. Limits the deductible amount for principal contributions to 25 percent of the compensation otherwise paid or accrued to all employees under the plan for the taxable year. Exempts such an ESOP from the limitations otherwise imposed on annual additions to an employee stock ownership plan. Increases the permissible deduction for employer contributions made to both a stock bonus trust and a profit sharing trust if the additional amount deductible is attributable to a contribution of employer stock or amounts used for the acquisition of such stock. Allows an income tax deduction for cash dividends paid with respect to employer stock which is held by a tax credit ESOP or by a former employee or a beneficiary to whom the stock was distributed from a tax credit ESOP or an ESOP. Extends the partial exclusion for dividends received to such amounts. Excludes from the gross income of an ESOP or a tax credit ESOP participant any lump-sum distribution of employer securities (not to exceed $25,000) made from a qualified trust which is part of an ESOP or a tax credit ESOP. Deems contributions, bequests, or similar transfers of employer securities, under certain conditions, to an ESOP or to a tax credit ESOP as a deductible charitable contribution. Provides for nonrecognition of any long-term capital gain from the sale of small business stock to an ESOP, a tax credit ESOP, or a specified type of consumer cooperative, except to the extent that the taxpayer's sale price exceeds the cost of small business stock or small business investment company stock purchased by the taxpayer within 18 months after the date of such sale. Reduces the basis of such stock by the amount not recognized as gain. Prescribes a three-year statute of limitations for the assessment of any deficiency attributable to gain realized by the sale of small business stock. Relieves an estate of liability for payment of the estate tax to the extent that amounts of the tax are attributable to employer securities transferred to an ESOP pursuant to a written agreement guaranteeing that the tax will be paid by the plan in an amount equal to the lesser of: (1) the amount of the tax imposed upon the acquired employer securities; or (2) the amount of the tax imposed on the gross estate reduced by the sum of allowable credits. Permits the payment of such tax in installments. Exempts such transfers from the tax on prohibited transactions. Permits the use of nonvoting stock in tax credit employer stock ownership plans. Permits a tax credit ESOP, where ownership of all outstanding employer securities is restricted to employees, to distribute benefits in cash although it does not permit a participant to exercise the right to demand that benefits be distributed in employer securities. Allows a stock bonus plan which distributes benefits in cash to qualify as a deferred compensation plan if benefits may be distributed in the form of any securities of the employer held by a tax credit ESOP. Allows financial institutions whose securities are not readily tradable to reduce the period for exercise of a put option to a period of at least 60 days following the date of distribution of employer stock and an additional such period in the following plan year. Permits a trust which is part of an ESOP or a tax credit ESOP to be a shareholder in a subchapter S corporation. Permits distributions from a tax credit ESOP of employer securities allocated to a participant's account in the case of a sale of the assets of a division or a sale of the stock of a subsidiary and the transfer of the participant to the employment of the acquiring entity. Includes provision of cafeteria plan benefits in qualified cash or deferred arrangements, for purposes of applying participation and discrimination standards to profit-sharing or stock bonus plans.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1981
Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from restricting the broadcast of the results or projected results of an election to choose Presidential electors until all polling places are closed. Establishes the Commission on the Effect of the Communications Industry on Voter Behavior to report to the President and the Congress on whether the practices of the communications industry affect voter behavior. Sets forth the composition and functions of such Commission. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1981
Prohibits permanently the issuance of any final or proposed Internal Revenue Service regulations on the taxation of fringe benefits.
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1981
Requests the President to designate October 2, 1981, as "American Enterprise Day."
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1981
Product Liability Risk Retention Act of 1981 - Defines "risk retention group" to mean any corporation or insurance company formed under State law which: (1) is organized for the primary purpose of assuming and spreading product liability or completed operations liability risk exposure; (2) is chartered or licensed as an insurance company under State law; (3) does not exclude members for competitive advantage; and (4) consists of members whose principal activity is the manufacture, design, distribution, packaging or sale of a product. Defines "purchasing group" to mean any group of persons which has as one of its purposes the purchase of product liability or completed operations insurance on a group basis. Exempts risk retention groups and purchasing groups from State laws which prohibit, regulate, or otherwise discriminate against such groups. Enumerates requirements which a State may impose on a risk retention group, including compliance with unfair claims settlement practices laws, payment of taxes, and reporting requirements. Authorizes a State to license an agent or broker for a purchasing group. Stipulates that the ownership interests of members in a risk retention group shall not be considered securities or an investment company for purposes of the Federal securities laws or State blue sky laws.
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
Title I: Amendments to Title 18, United States Code (18 U.S.C. 921-928) - Amends the Gun Control Act of 1968 to redefine: (1) "manufacturer" to mean any person engaged in the "business of manufacturing" (instead of "manufacture" of) firearms or ammunition; and (2) "dealer" to exclude dealers in ammunition. Adds a new definition "engaged in the business" with respect to manufacturers, dealers, and importers. Defines as a manufacturer or dealer of firearms a person who manufactures or deals in a regular course of trade or business with the principal objective of livelihood and profit. Excludes as dealers persons making occasional sales or repairs of firearms. Eliminates certain activities involving ammunition from the coverage of the current prohibitions. Makes it unlawful for any person to transfer any firearm to a person who does not reside in the same State, if the transferor has reasonable cause to believe that acquisition of the firearm by such person would violate any State or local law or ordinance. Revises the current prohibition against certain classes of persons transporting a firearm or ammunition in interstate commerce to extend such prohibition to possession or receipt in commerce or affecting commerce of any firearm or ammunition. Includes as additional categories illegal aliens, dishonorably discharged members of the Armed Forces, and U.S. citizens who renounce their citizenship. Excludes ammunition dealers from the current licensing requirements. Declares that a licensed dealer's personal collection of firearms shall not be subject to recordkeeping requirements. Permits the Secretary of the Treasury to revoke a license only where the holder "willfully" violates a provision of the Act. Bars the Secretary from denying or revoking a license on the basis of violations which are alleged in criminal proceedings instituted against a licensee, where such individual is not convicted of such charges. Imposes as a condition for the inspection or examination of records, documents, firearms, or ammunition that the Secretary has probable cause to believe that a violation has occurred and that evidence may be found on the premises. Restricts the firearms information obtained from licensees which the Secretary may make available to State or local governments. Establishes a limited recordkeeping requirement for firearms collectors. Establishes a "willful" scienter (knowledge) requirement with respect to general violations of the Act. Revises the current offense of using or carrying a firearm during commission of a Federal felony to: (1) include use of a destructive device; (2) delete the act of "carrying" a firearm to commit a felony; and (3) limit such offense to felonies over which the Federal courts have exclusive jurisdiction. Retains the current penalty (one to ten years) for first offenses. Increases the penalty for second or subsequent offenses to five to 25 years' imprisonment (currently, two to 25 years). Extends to first offenders the stipulations, currently applicable only to second offenders, that the court not suspend any sentence or grant probation. Deletes the prohibition against concurrent sentences. Prohibits the granting of parole to first and subsequent offenders. Declares that no person shall be subject to the additional, mandatory penalties if use of the firearm or destructive device was to protect persons or property. Amends the forfeiture provision to subject to seizure any firearm or ammunition "involved in or used" in any violation of the Act (instead of "involved in or used or intended to be used"). Directs the court to award attorney fees to the prevailing party (other than the United States) in a proceeding for the return of seized firearms or ammunition. Requires the court to award such fees in any other action upon a finding that the action was without foundation or was initiated in bad faith. Limits seizure to firearms individually identified as involved in the violation. Revises the current procedure allowing persons who have been convicted of a crime to apply to the Secretary for relief from the firearms prohibitions to make the following changes. Permits any person prohibited from possessing, shipping, transporting, or receiving firearms or ammunition to apply for relief. Requires, instead of permits, the Secretary to grant release, unless the applicant will be likely to act in a manner dangerous to public safety. Permits any person who is denied relief to seek de novo judicial review in Federal court. Makes the authority of the Secretary to permit importation of certain types of firearms and ammunition nondiscretionary. Extends the types of sporting firearms which may be imported. Amends the rulemaking authority of the Secretary to provide that no regulation may require the transfer of records required under this Act to a facility owned, managed, or controlled by the United States or any State or the establishment of any system of registration of firearms, firearms owners, or firearms transactions. Requires a 90-day public comment period for proposed regulations (no period is currently specified). Establishes a Congressional veto procedure with respect to firearms regulations. Authorizes either House of Congress to adopt a resolution of disapproval within 90 days of the rule's promulgation. Prohibits the Secretary from prescribing regulations which require purchasers of black powder to complete affidavits or forms attesting to their exemption from certain provisions of the Federal criminal code. Declares any law or regulation promulgated by any State prohibiting the transfer of an unloaded and not readily accessible firearm or ammunition null and void. Title II: Amendments to Title VII of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 - Repeals title VII of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act (relating to the receipt, possession, or transportation of firearms by felons, veterans dishonorably discharged, mental incompetents, illegal aliens, and persons renouncing their United States citizenship).
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1981
Requests the President to designate the week of October 4 through October 10, 1981, as "National Diabetes Week."
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 · 27 April 1981
Declares that the Senate urges: (1) the Civil Aeronautics Board and other Federal agencies to refrain from any extraordinary action in regard to the proposed merger between Texas International Airlines and Continental Airlines; and (2) the Board to proceed with consideration of such merger under its regular procedures.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1981
Hazardous Materials Transportation Act Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act to direct the Secretary of Transportation to evaluate training programs conducted by Federal, State, and local agencies and private organizations for those who are involved in the transportation of hazardous materials under the authority of such Act. Requires the Secretary to submit to Congress an interim report within four months and such final evaluation within eight months following the date of enactment of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to develop appropriate training programs and to make recommendations as to how to improve existing programs. Directs the Secretary to maintain an information service to disseminate instructional materials for use in training personnel in safe and proper methods of transporting hazardous materials. Directs the Secretary to establish or encourage establishment of regional training centers. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States for the development and implementation of programs for the enforcement of Federal rules, regulations, standards, and orders applicable to hazardous materials transportation. Directs the Secretary to formulate procedures for a State to submit a plan with regard to hazardous materials transportation. Sets forth criteria for approval of such plans. Provides for a continuing evaluation of such plans. Specifies procedures for the withdrawal of approval of a plan. Directs the Secretary to reimburse a State up to 50 percent for costs related to such plans. Directs the Secretary, within 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act and in consultation with Federal agencies and State, local, and regional governments, to determine whether to issue regulations with regard to the routing of hazardous materials being transported in interstate commerce. Sets forth criteria to be considered in promulgating such regulations. Directs the Secretary, within 12 months after the date of enactment of this Act, to report to Congress on the establishment of a prenotification system that would inform State or local governments in advance of the timing, nature, and routing of hazardous materials shipments through their jurisdictions. Specifies groups and organizations to be consulted in preparing such report. Authorizes one or more demonstration projects of such system. Directs the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, with the Secretary and other responsible agencies, to study and evaluate programs that provide training to agencies or organizations responsible for responding to incidents involving hazardous materials transportation. Requires that such study be submitted to Congress within a specified time. Authorizes the Director, in coordination with the Secretary, to develop appropriate training programs for such incident response personnel. Directs the Secretary, or the Director, to maintain an information dissemination service that provides the necessary instructional materials for training personnel in safe and proper methods for responding to such incidents. Authorizes the Director to make emergency response planning grants to State, regional, and local governments for specified purposes. Directs the Director to establish the necessary rules and regulations concerning the administration of such grants. Specifies research and development activities to be conducted by the Director in coordination with the Secretary. Authorizes appropriations for the purposes of this Act. Permits the Secretary to enter into a contract with a private entity for use of a supplemental reporting system and data center operated and maintained by such entity.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1981
Amateur Radio Service and Private Land Mobile and Fixed Services Act of 1981 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to authorize the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to regulate minimum performance standards for audio and visual electronic equipment to reduce their susceptibility to radio interference. Directs the FCC to regulate or prohibit delivery of radio frequency transmitters, power amplifiers, or component kits thereof to unlicensed persons. Exempts amateur radio transmissions, transmissions by radio stations for the general public, and distress transmissions from the secrecy provisions of such Act. Extends the term of licenses of non-broadcasting stations from five to ten years. Requires the FCC to consider specified items in managing the spectrum available to the private land mobile and fixed services. Authorizes the FCC to delegate to non-Governmental coordinating committees the coordination of specified frequencies for stations in the private land mobile and fixed services. Authorizes the FCC to use as volunteers: (1) licensed amateur station operators to monitor amateur station transmission violations; (2) licensed citizens band radio operators to monitor citizens band transmission violations; and (3) licensed amateur station operators whose license is not of the least privileged class of license to prepare or administer examinations for the least privileged class of amateur station operator license. Prohibits any such volunteer from being considered a Federal employee.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1981
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to permit the National Committee of American Airmen Rescued by General Mihailovich to construct and maintain a monument to General Draza Mihailovich in recognition of the role he played in saving the lives of approximately five hundred United States airmen in Yugoslavia during World War II. Provides that such monument shall be located on Federal public land within the District of Columbia or environs. Directs that private funds shall be the sole source for the construction and maintenance of such monument.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1981
Motor Bus Act of 1981 - Sets forth the findings of Congress in regard to the need for a safe, competitive, and fuel-efficient motor bus system. Requires the appropriate congressional committees to conduct periodic oversight hearings on the effects of this Act no less than annually for five years following the date of enactment of this Act. Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to include the interstate motor carrier transportation of passengers in the overall transportation policy of the United States. Revises the entry policy for motor carriers of passengers. Eliminates specified restrictions on the operations of motor carriers of passengers, including charter and special operations carriers. Directs the Interstate Commerce Commission to: (1) eliminate gateway restrictions and circuitous route limitations; and (2) implement procedures to expedite processing of applications seeking removal of operating restrictions. Authorizes a motor carrier of passengers to provide transportation between any two points on its regular routes regardless of whether such points lie within the same State. Sets forth the zone of pricing freedom for motor carriers of passengers. Permits the Commission to increase rates within specified percentage ranges. Declares that rates and fares implemented pursuant to this Act shall be subject to specified antitrust laws. Describes the use of rate bureaus and motor carrier brokers of passengers by motor carriers of passengers. Authorizes the Commission to grant, to motor carriers of passengers, emergency temporary authority to provide transportation. Amends the Motor Carrier Act of 1980 to establish minimum levels of financial responsibility for any vehicle operated in interstate commerce by a motor carrier of passengers. Prohibits a State, political subdivision thereof, interstate agency, or other political agency from enacting or enforcing any law or regulation relating to the discontinuance of regular-route service by an authorized motor common carrier of passengers. Directs the Interstate Commerce Commission to promulgate rules for the discontinuance of essential intrastate and interstate regular route service by such carriers. Describes procedures postponing or challenging such discontinuances. Empowers the Commission to enjoin discontinuances that do not comply with such procedures. Sets forth procedures for certification of State authorities that regulate passenger fares and express rates. Authorizes a motor common carrier of passengers to provide: (1) charter passenger service in the same vehicle and at the same time as it provides regular route, scheduled passenger service; and (2) transportation for newspapers, baggage of passengers, or mail in the same motor vehicle with passengers or in a separate vehicle of any type. Directs the Commission to report to the President and Congress on more flexible entry policies for the motor bus industry. Requires the Secretary of Transportation and the Commission to report to the President and Congress on the relationship between the ownership and location of bus terminals and the level of competition among bus carriers. Prohibits a State or subdivision thereof from levying a discriminatory or unreasonably burdensome tax on interstate motor carrier transportation.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1981
Bus Regulatory Modernization and Improvement Act of 1981 - Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to include the interstate motor carrier transportation of passengers in the overall transportation policy of the United States. Directs the Interstate Commerce Commission to issue a certificate, under specified circumstances, to a person authorizing that person to provide transportation subject to the jurisdiction of the Commission as a motor common carrier of passengers. Places upon the applicant for such certificate the burden of proving that: (1) he is fit, willing, and able to provide such transportation; and (2) such transportation would serve a useful public purpose. Lists factors to be considered by the Commission in its determination of whether an application is consistent with the public convenience and necessity. Prohibits the Commission from issuing such certificates to specified public carriers and foreign governments. Exempts specified charter and special operations carriers from certain requirements of this Act. Sets forth procedures by which the Commission shall approve an application for a certificate. Directs the Commission to promulgate rules of procedure for processing such applications. Revises criteria concerning: (1) the investigation and suspension of new nonrail carrier rates, classifications, rules, and practices; and (2) ratemaking and rate bureaus to include motor carriers of passengers. Amends the Motor Carrier Act of 1980 to increase the membership of the Motor Carrier Ratemaking Study Commission to include a representative of the National Bus Traffic Association. Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to revise State authority over intrastate transportation to include transportation provided by motor carriers of passengers. Prohibits a State, political subdivision thereof, interstate agency, or other political agency from enacting or enforcing any law or regulation relating to the discontinuance of regular-route service by an authorized motor common carrier of passengers. Directs the Interstate Commerce Commission to promulgate rules for the discontinuance of essential intrastate and interstate regular route service by such carriers. Describes procedures for postponing or challenging such discontinuances. Authorizes the Commission to order a carrier to continue service on such routes under certain circumstances. Prohibits a State or subdivision thereof from levying a discriminatory or unreasonably burdensome tax on interstate motor carrier transportation. Amends such Act and the Securities Act of 1933 to specify that only motor carriers of property (currently "motor carriers") may issue securities and assume obligations and liabilities. Amends the Motor Carrier Act of 1980 to establish minimum levels of financial responsibility for any vehicle operated in interstate commerce by a motor carrier of passengers. Requires, under certain circumstances, that the Secretary of Transportation certify to the Commission that an applicant is in compliance with applicable Federal motor carrier safety regulations.