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Official portrait of Sen. Denton, Jeremiah [R-AL]

Sen. Denton, Jeremiah [R-AL]

United States · Official source

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882 records where Sen. Denton, Jeremiah [R-AL] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Bill· SS. 1300 (98th)open

Rural Electrification and Telephone Revolving Fund Self-Sufficiency Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1983

Rural Electrification and Telephone Revolving Fund Self-Sufficiency Act of 1983 - Amends the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 (REA) to eliminate the requirement for a State certificate of convenience and necessity before the Administrator may make loans to provide rural telephone service. Revises the liabilities and uses of the Rural Electrification and Telephone Revolving Fund established under the REA to provide that notes of the Administrator to the Secretary of the Treasury to obtain funds for loans shall be equity capital of the Fund. States that assets of the Fund shall be available only for: (1) payment of interest and principal on loans to the Administrator from the Secretary; and (2) for certificates of beneficial ownership issued to the Secretary or in the private market. Requires the Administrator to maintain two separate accounts within the Fund: (1) the Electrification Account; and (2) the Telephone Account. Lists the items that shall be accounted for in each Account respectively, and restricts the purposes for which the assets of each Account shall be available. Authorizes the Administrator to repurchase specified certificates of beneficial ownership under certain conditions affecting their interest rates. Establishes guidelines for interest-bearing insured loans made by the Administrator to electric and telephone borrowers. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to request in each annual supplemental budgets estimate the amount needed to replenish the Fund for anticipated and actual costs resulting from loans made at less than a specified rate during the preceding fiscal year. Directs the Administrator to guarantee loans to specified borrowers or to accommodate or subordinate liens or mortgages held in the Fund, according to prescribed rules and regulations. Directs the Administrator to promulgate such rules and regulations within ninety days after the effective date of this Act. Prescribes guidelines under which certain lenders are authorized to adjust interest rates on loans guaranteed by the Administrator. Requires rural electrification borrowers to obtain concurrent supplemental financing according to prescribed guidelines in any fiscal year in which the minimum loan level for insured rural electrification loans is less than $1,000,000,000. Repeals certain provisos governing the loan-making authority of the Governor of the Rural Telephone Bank which require approval by the Secretary of Agriculture of facilities or lines to be acquired with such loans. Eliminates loan restrictions placed upon potential borrowers whose net worth exceeds their assets by twenty percent.

Bill· SS. 1306 (98th)open

Patent Term Restoration Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1983

Patent Term Restoration Act of 1983 - Amends the patent law to extend the terms of patents which encompass specified products or methods for using or producing a product, any of which are subject to certain nonpatent regulatory review periods. Sets forth the terms and conditions of such extension, including a seven year limitation. Directs the Commissioner of Patents to issue to the owner of record of a patent a certificate of extension stating the fact and length of the extension and identifying the product and the use and the claim to which such extension is applicable. Makes such certificate a part of the original patent. Limits the application of such patent term extension to patents for products subject to regulation under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, the Public Health Service Act, the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, the Toxic Substances Control Act, and the Act of March 4, 1913 (relating to virus, serum, toxin, and analogous products).

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 148 (98th)passed

A resolution expressing the support of the Senate on the decision of the Governments of Lebanon and Israel on agreeing to the arrangements for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon.

United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1983

Expresses the support of the Senate for Lebanon's and Israel's agreement on arrangements for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon. Calls upon other nations to work toward the withdrawal of all foreign forces from Lebanon. Emphasizes the need of all nations to recognize the sovereignty of Lebanon. Urges Syria and the Palestine Liberation Organization to agree to the arrangements for the withdrawal of their forces from Lebanon.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 137 (98th)referred

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that Taiwan should retain full membership in the Asian Development Bank, and that it should not be expelled as a precondition for membership in that body by the People's Republic of China.

United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1983

Expresses the sense of the Senate that Taiwan should remain a full member of the Asian Development Bank, irrespective of the issue of the People's Republic of China's application to such bank. Declares that the President and the Secretary of State should express U.S. support for Taiwan.

Bill· SS. 1240 (98th)referred

Child Protection Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 9 May 1983

Child Protection Act of 1983 - Amends the Federal criminal code dealing with the sexual exploitation of children. Prohibits the distribution of material involving the sexual exploitation of minors even if the material is not found to be "obscene" and transferred without a sale. Increases the penalties for violation of this section. Redefines "minor" as any person under the age of 18.

Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 97 (98th)referred

A joint resolution to authorize the erection of a memorial on public grounds in the District of Columbia, or its environs, in honor and commemoration of members of the Armed Forces of the United States and the allied forces who served in the Korean war.

United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1983

Authorizes the erection of a memorial on public grounds in the District of Columbia, or its environs, in honor and commemoration of members of the armed forces who served in the Korean war. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to select, with the approval of the National Commission of Fine Arts and the National Capital Planning Commission, a suitable site on public grounds for such memorial. Subjects the design and any plans for the memorial to the approval of the Secretary, the National Commission of Fine Arts, and the National Capital Planning Commission. Declares that no moneys belonging to the United States or the District of Columbia shall be expended for the erection of such memorial. Authorizes appropriations for site acquisition and preparation in the event nonpublic land is selected for the memorial.

Law· SS. 1224 (98th)enacted

A bill to provide for the disposition of certain undistributed judgement funds awarded the Creek Nation.

United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1983

Directs the Secretary of the Interior to distribute specified judgment funds to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation of Oklahoma and the Creek Nation of Indians. Directs the Secretary to allocate certain percentages of specified funds to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation of Oklahoma and the Eastern Creeks. Directs the Secretary to: (1) distribute the funds allocated to the Muscogee in order to implement any plan or program authorized by ordinance of such Nation; and (2) hold in trust and invest for their benefit the funds allocated to the Eastern Creeks. Directs the Secretary to distribute such funds in the form of per capita payments to specified Eastern Creeks if the Eastern Creeks are not recognized as an Indian Tribe before June 30, 1985. Directs the Secretary to act on the petition for Federal recognition of the Eastern Creeks by no later than December 31, 1983, or report to Congress if no action is taken.

Bill· SS. 1201 (98th)open

Semiconductor Chip Protection Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1983

Semiconductor Chip Protection Act of 1983 - Extends copyright protection to mask works. Defines a mask work as a series of related images: (1) having the predetermined, three-dimensional pattern of metallic, insulating, or semiconductor material present or removed from the layers of a semiconductor chip product; and (2) in which the relation of the images to one another is that each image has the pattern of the surface of one form of the chip product. Excludes masks and mask works from the pictorial, graphic, or sculptural works categories. Sets forth the exclusive rights the owner of copyright holds, including the right to: (1) embody the mask work in a mask, a two- dimensional partially transparent and opaque sheet; (2) distribute a mask embodying the mask work; (3) reproduce such work on material intended to be part of the semiconductor chip product; and (4) manufacture and distribute semiconductor chip products incorporating such masks. Sets forth limitations on such exclusive rights, including compulsory licensing, as specified. Sets the copyright term for masks at ten years from first authorized distribution, use, or manufacture. Excludes an innocent purchaser in good faith of a semiconductor chip product from infringement liability. Permits the impoundment and seizure of masks made or used in violation of the copyright owner's exclusive rights.

Bill· SS. 1200 (98th)open

A bill entitled the "National Right to Work Bill".

United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1983

Amends the National Labor Relations Act to eliminate the provision which permits union security agreements (i.e., agreements requiring membership in a labor union as a condition of employment) to affect an employees' right to refrain from labor union activities.

Bill· SS. 1171 (98th)reported

A bill to authorize and direct construction of certain navigation projects of critical national and regional importance, to provide jobs during construction, to foster and encourage economic revitalization and increased employment opportunities through provision of efficient, economical, and dependable inland waterway transportation, and to provide for coordinated use and enhancement of the Upper Mississippi River System.

United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1983

Title I: National Inland Waterways Urgent Improvement Act of 1983 - Directs the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to replace the Gallipolis locks, Ohio River, Ohio and West Virginia, according to specified recommendations. Directs the Secretary to mitigate fish and wildlife habitat losses resulting from such construction by purchasing, at Federal expense, specified land. Authorizes the Secretary to transfer such land to the State of West Virginia for operation and maintenance. Authorizes the Secretary, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to construct a specified multipurpose lock and dam project to replace the William Bacon Oliver lock and dam, Black Warrior River, Alabama. Amends Federal law to authorize the Secretary to construct a new lock at the Bonneville lock and dam project, Oregon and Washington, according to a certain Chief of Engineers' report. Directs the Secretary to construct: (1) a lock and dam (to be called Grays Landing) to replace lock and dam numbered 7, Monongahela River, Pennsylvania; and (2) a lock and abutment (to be called Point Marion lock) to replace the lock and abutment at lock and dam numbered 8, Monongahela River, Pennsylvania. Requires construction of such projects to be carried out according to specified recommendations. Authorizes the Secretary to replace the Winfield locks on the Kanawha River, West Virginia. Establishes procedures for the submission of final environmental impact statements to Congress for the navigation projects authorized by this title. Sets forth related judicial review procedures. Authorizes appropriations. Title II: Upper Mississippi River System Management Act - Grants congressional approval of the Comprehensive Master Plan for the Management of the Upper Mississippi River System as a guide for future water policy on such system. Defines the Upper Mississippi River System as those river reaches having commercial navigation channels on certain rivers in Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Grants congressional consent to Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, and Wisconsin (or any two or more of such States) to: (1) enter into agreements for cooperative effort and mutual assistance in the planning for the use, protection, growth, and development of the System; and (2) form agencies for effecting such agreements. Authorizes officers or employees of the United States, who are responsible for management of any part of the System, to assist such agencies. Authorizes the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to provide for the engineering, design, and construction of a second lock at locks and dam 26, Mississippi River, Alton, Illinois and Missouri. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Secretary to monitor traffic movements on the System to verify the need for future capacity expansion of the System and the future need for river rehabilitation and environmental enhancement. Authorizes appropriations. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, in concert with any appropriate State agency, to undertake with respect to the System: (1) a habitat rehabilitation and enhancement program; (2) the implementation of a long-term resource monitoring program; and (3) the implementation of a computerized inventory and analysis system. Authorizes appropriations. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to implement a program of recreational projects for the System and to assess the economic benefits generated by recreational activities in the System. Authorizes appropriations. Declares that the Master Plan for the System has reasonably complied with the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969.

Bill· SS. 1173 (98th)open

Federal Mine Safety and Health Amendments of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1983

Federal Mine Safety and Health Amendments of 1983 - Amends the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 to exempt States and political subdivisions of States from coverage under the Act. Replaces the requirement that the Secretary of Labor make inspections of surface mines at least twice a year with the requirement that the Secretary establish criteria to determine the minimum number of inspections to be made at each surface mine. Directs the Secretary to issue a notice of violation to a mine if the Secretary believes that there is a violation of any mandatory health or safety standard (currently, a citation is issued in such situations). Directs the Secretary to issue a citation if a violation is found that is a significant health and safety hazard (meaning, a situation likely to result in a serious injury or illness). Revises requirements for mandatory health and safety training. Eliminates the present requirements for refresher training and provides that such refresher training shall be at such intervals as the Secretary determines is necessary. Authorizes the Secretary to provide consultation and assistance to any mine operator in order to assist the operator in meeting the requirements of the Act and in improving the health and safety conditions and practices in the mine. Prohibits: (1) such consultation and assistance from being considered an inspection or investigation; and (2) the issuance of any notice of violation, citation, or order as the result of such consultation and assistance.

Bill· SS. 1172 (98th)open

A bill to amend the Davis-Bacon Act.

United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1983

Amends the Davis-Bacon Act (an Act which requires that the locally prevailing wage rate be paid to various classes of laborers and mechanics working under federally-financed or federally-assisted contracts for construction, alteration, and repair of public buildings or public works) to make such Act applicable to helpers as well as laborers and mechanics. Increases from $2,000 to $100,000 the dollar value of contracts to which such Act applies. Directs the Secretary of Labor to base the determination of the wages prevailing for the corresponding classes of laborers, mechanics, and helpers on: (1) the wage paid to 50 percent or more of such corresponding classes of workers employed on projects similar to the contract work in the urban or rural subdivision of the State; or (2) if the same wage is not paid to 50 percent or more, the weighted average of the wages paid to the corresponding classes employed on such similar projects.

Bill· SS. 1165 (98th)referred

A bill to provide for the continued operation of overseas schools for dependents of Department of Defense personnel by the Department of Defense.

United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1983

Amends the Department of Education Organization Act and the Department of Defense Dependents' Education Act of 1978 to return the operation of the overseas schools for dependents of Department of Defense personnel to the Department of Defense from the Department of Education.

Bill· SS. 1144 (98th)open

A bill to suspend periodic reviews of disability beneficiaries having mental impairments pending regulatory reform of the disability determination process.

United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1983

Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to revise: (1) the criteria under the category "Mental Disorders" in the "Listing of Impairments" in effect under part 404 of title 20 of the Code of Federal Regulations which are used to make individualized determinations of disability for purposes of determining eligibility for disability benefits under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act; and (2) the methods and procedures for assessing the residual functional capacity of individuals having mental impairments. Requires the Secretary to appoint a panel of outside experts to make recommendations with respect to such revisions. Prohibits the Social Security Administration from carrying out continuing eligibility reviews with respect to individuals previously determined to be under a disability due to mental impairment until such revisions have been established by final regulation. Makes such prohibition inapplicable in any case involving fraud or where an individual is engaged in substantial gainful activity. Sets forth requirements for the redetermination of disability determinations made after the enactment of this Act and before the date on which the Secretary's revisions are established by final regulation. Amends titles II and XVI (Supplemental Security Income) of the Social Security Act to require that a qualified psychiatrist or psychologist complete the medical portion of the sequential evaluation and residual functional capacity assessment in cases where an individual alleges to be under a disability due to a severe mental impairment.

Law· SS. 1129 (98th)enacted

Domestic Volunteer Service Act Amendments of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1983

Community Volunteer Service Act of 1983 - Amends the Domestic Volunteers Service Act of 1973 to amend the purpose of the Volunteers in Service to America program (VISTA) so as to: (1) emphasize efforts to alleviate poverty-related human problems; and (2) encourage the participation of low-income individuals, the commitment of private sector resources, and part-time volunteer service at the local level. Authorizes the Director of the ACTION Agency to recruit and train persons to serve in part-time volunteer programs. Provides that VISTA volunteers shall work in the communities in which they are recruited and shall address the problems of the homeless, the jobless, the hungry, illiterate adults, and low-income youths. Permits the Director, in coordination with an appropriate private industry council, to provide each low-income volunteer with an individual plan for job advancement. Allows VISTA volunteers to be assigned to a community project or program only if the application for such project or program contains evidence of local support. Repeals specified limitations on funding VISTA programs. Repeals the University Year for ACTION program. Expands the purpose of special volunteer programs to include providing assistance to encourage voluntary organizations and volunteer efforts at the Federal, State, and local level. Requires the Director to assure that there is an equitable distribution of such programs each year. Authorizes the Director to make grants or contracts for Senior Companion projects to assist the homebound elderly. Encourages the Director to recruit Senior Companion volunteer trainers who will receive no stipends. Allows the Director to use Senior Companion volunteer leaders to assist and coordinate the activities of newer volunteers. Requires the Director to report to Congress on impact studies assessing the cost-effectiveness of such projects. Prohibits the Director from restricting the expenditure of the amount of non-Federal contributions to volunteer programs for older Americans that exceeds the amount required by the Director if such expenditures are consistent with the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1982. Declares that the purpose of the ACTION agency is to provide a local point for volunteerism at the Federal, State, and local level. Repeals the Director's authority to delegate functions to persons carrying out functions under the Peace Corps Act. Terminates the National Voluntary Service Advisory Council on January 1, 1986. Excludes stipends paid to volunteers under the National Older American Volunteer Programs as compensation or income for purposes of workers compensation laws. Prohibits any regulation prescribed under the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 from becoming effective unless the public is afforded 30 days to comment before it is published in the Federal Register. Repeals the current requirement that 30 days must expire after the regulation is published. Repeals the Director's authority to waive the requirement that 45 days be provided between the publication and effective dates of a regulation for congressional consideration thereof. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 through 1986: (1) to carry out the National Volunteer Antipoverty Programs; (2) carry out the National Older Americans Volunteer Programs; and (3) for administration of the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973.

Bill· SS. 1130 (98th)open

Domestic Volunteer Service Act Amendments of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1983

Domestic Volunteer Service Act Amendments of 1983 - Amends the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 to repeal provisions authorizing the Volunteers in Service to America program and the University Year for ACTION program. Eliminates provisions that authorize the Director of ACTION to provide allowances, services, and support to operate special volunteer programs. Excludes stipends received by participants in the National Older Americans Volunteer Programs as income or compensation for purposes of workers' compensation laws. Grants the Director subpoena authority in conducting audits of the records of Federal grant, loan, or contract recipients under the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 and 1985 for: (1) service learning programs and special volunteer programs; (2) the Retired Senior Volunteer Program; (3) the Foster Grandparent Program and Older American Community Services Programs; and (4) administration of such Act.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 116 (98th)passed

A resolution deploring the bombing of the United States Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, and expressing the sorrow and condolences of the Senate on the death and wounding of Americans caught in the bombing, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 April 1983

Declares that the Senate deplores the bombing of the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon. Urges specified Federal officials to hold memorial or other commemorative ceremonies to honor the victims of the bombing.

Bill· SS. 1080 (98th)open

Regulatory Reform Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1983

Regulatory Reform Act - Amends the Administrative Procedure Act to exempt from its applicability any rule involving public property, contracts, or general policy statements of the Tennessee Valley Authority. Repeals the current exemption provided for matters relating to loans, grants, and benefits. Requires a notice of proposed rulemaking to include: (1) a statement of need and objectives; (2) a statement that the agency seeks proposals of alternative methods from the public and from State and local governments; (3) a description of the information on which the agency plans to rely in the rulemaking; and (4) a statement specifying where copies of the rulemaking file may be obtained. Allows an agency to adopt a rule before publishing notice, providing a period for public comment, or establishing a rulemaking file, when notice or hearing is not required by another statute, if: (1) it publishes its findings that compliance with such procedures before the rule becomes effective would be impracticable and contrary to the public interest; and (2) it completes such procedures as soon as practicable after the rule is promulgated. Requires an agency to publish a notice and allow a period for comment on any final rule which is substantially different from the original rule as proposed. Directs each agency to give interested persons at least 60 days to submit written comments on a proposed rule. Permits an agency to use any appropriate procedure to elicit full and representative public comment on the significant issues of a rulemaking. Requires an agency to provide an opportunity for oral presentations at informal public hearings in a rulemaking for a "major rule," as defined by this Act. Requires agencies to publish with each final rule a notice of its effective date and a statement of its basis and purpose, including: (1) a discussion of significant issues and alternative approaches raised by public comments; and (2) an explanation of how the agency's factual determinations are substantially supported in the rulemaking file. Prohibits an agency promulgating a rule from relying on any material not placed in the rulemaking file in time to afford an adequate period for public comment. Directs each agency to give interested persons the right to petition for an interpretation of, or exemption from, a rule. Requires an agency to respond promptly and in writing to such a petition. Requires that each agency maintain a public file of the paperwork, data, and comments pertaining to each rulemaking which shall constitute the rulemaking record for purposes of judicial review. Allows an agency to exclude from the file material exempted from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act, if the agency includes a summary of such material or a notice of the existence of such material. Prohibits an agency rule from substantially changing the requirement of any existing contract, agreement, or grant between a Federal agency and a State or local government for one year after the rule takes effect, unless the agency publishes a finding that delaying the rule's effect would be contrary to the public interest. Provides for the judicial review of agency compliance with rulemaking requirements under this Act. Requires each agency: (1) prior to publishing a rulemaking notice, to determine whether a proposed rule is a "major rule" and (2) to include an explanation of such determination in the notice. Authorizes the President or a selected officer to determine that a rule is a major rule within 30 days after publication of the rulemaking notice and to designate not more than 75 rules as major rules during any fiscal year. Requires an agency to issue, to enter into the rulemaking file, and to publish in summary form a preliminary rulemaking analysis of each proposed major rule, with specified exceptions. Provides 60 days for public comment on such analysis. Lists the contents of such analysis, including: (1) a description of quantifiable and nonquantifiable costs and benefits; (2) a description of reasonable alternatives; (3) a statement identifying the source of Federal funds, if any, to pay costs imposed on State and local governments; (4) a description of agency action to verify data; and (5) an explanation of why the rule chosen is more cost effective than the alternatives. Directs the agency to issue a final regulatory analysis upon publishing a final major rule, to place such analysis in the rulemaking file, and to summarize such analysis in the statement of the basis and purpose of the rule. Establishes guidelines for the evaluation and description of benefits and costs in the preparation of such analysis. Limits judicial review over: (1) the designation of a major rule; or (2) any regulatory analysis. Authorizes the President to establish procedures for agency compliance with the regulatory analysis and sunset review requirements under this Act and to monitor and enforce agency implementation of such procedures, except for rules issued by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Directs the President to report to Congress annually on agency compliance with regulatory analysis requirements. Requires each agency to publish for public comment a proposed schedule for the review of its existing major rules and other rules selected for review by the agency or the President. Directs each agency to publish a final schedule with its responses to public comments within one year of enactment of this Act. Requires each agency to review major rules within ten years after enactment of this Act, or within ten years after such a rule is promulgated, amended, or renewed, whichever is later. Directs each agency to publish a notice of its proposed action regarding a reviewed rule. Requires that the notice: (1) assess the costs and benefits of the rule; and (2) invite public proposals for modifications or alternatives. Requires an agency to follow normal rulemaking procedures when amending or rescinding a rule. Specifies procedures for renewing a rule without amendment. Provides for: (1) extension of the review period to not to exceed 15 years; (2) revision of the review schedule; and (3) expedited agency action if a review deadline is not met. Requires each agency to publish in the Federal Register, semiannually, an agenda of the rules the agency expects to propose, promulgate, renew, or repeal within the next twelve months, including a schedule of the agency actions pertaining to each rule. Directs the President to publish, semiannually, a Calendar of Federal Regulations, listing each of the major rules included in such agenda. Allows an agency to promulgate a major rule not listed in such agenda only if it publishes an explanation of why the rule was omitted. Requires each agency to include in the notice of a proposed rulemaking the date by which it intends to complete action or each major portion of action on the rule. Directs an agency that fails to complete action by such date and that expects a delay of more than 30 days to announce a new deadline for action. Directs the President to report to Congress annually on the regulatory activities of the Government. Requires that the report include estimates of the costs and benefits to each major sector of the economy of all major rules promulgated during the preceding year, included in the regulatory agenda for the preceding year, or scheduled for review. Directs a court reviewing an agency action to: (1) determine the authority or jurisdiction of the agency on the basis of the language of the authorizing statute or other evidence of legislative intent; (2) accord no presumption in favor of or against agency action, but to give an agency's interpretation of a statutory provision such weight as it warrants; and (3) determine whether the factual basis of an agency rule has substantial support in the rulemaking file. Declares that when proceedings for review of the same agency action are instituted in two or more courts of appeals within five days, the Administrative Office of the United States Courts shall select, by a system of random selection, the court in which the record shall be filed. Authorizes the courts to postpone the effective date of the agency action until after such selection is made. Amends the Federal Advisory Committee Act to exclude from the definition of "advisory committee" for purposes of such Act any committee which is composed wholly of elected State or local officials or their representatives. Grants Federal district courts original jurisdiction of any civil action or proceeding to resolve a controversy between two or more regulatory agencies not of the same State concerning jurisdiction to regulate a public utility, unless the courts of appeals have exclusive original jurisdiction to review actions of one of the regulatory agencies involved. States that a declaratory judgment in such a proceeding shall not be withheld: (1) on the ground that a controversy over matters other than jurisdiction to regulate may exist between the parties; (2) because of failure to exhaust administrative remedies; or (3) because of inconsistent provisions of other statutes providing for judicial review of agency action. Declares that any Federal or State agency may join or be joined as a party to such action and the district court may issue its processes without regard to territorial limitations. Establishes venue for such a proceeding. Prohibits the use of appropriated funds to pay the expenses of persons participating or intervening in agency proceedings, except as expressly authorized by statute. Authorizes each Federal agency to adopt as a Federal rule with respect to a State or locality any State or local rule which duplicates or is substantially equivalent to or more stringent than such Federal rule. Declares that any final agency rule, with specified exceptions including an emergency rule, shall be considered to be a recommendation to Congress and shall have no effect unless it is reviewed and not disapproved by Congress. Directs each agency to transmit each final rule to Congress on the day the rule is transmitted for publication to the Federal Register. Prohibits the rule from becoming effective if: (1) within 45 days of continuous session of Congress after the rule is received by Congress, either committee of the House or the Senate having primary legislative jurisdiction over it reports or is discharged from consideration of a resolution disapproving it; (2) within 30 days after such resolution is reported or discharged, either House adopts it; and (3) within 30 days after the adopted resolution is transmitted to the other House, such other House agrees to it. Permits a final rule to become effective at any time after either House rejects a resolution of disapproval. Authorizes an agency to issue and submit to Congress for review a recommended final rule relating to the same acts or practices as a disapproved rule. Sets forth expedited congressional procedures for the consideration of resolutions of disapproval. Declares that the provisions of this Act supercede any other provision of law requiring action by both Houses of Congress for congressional review and disapproval of agency rules, but not any other provisions requiring action by only one House. Amends the Government in the Sunshine Act to include the Chrysler Corporation Loan Guarantee Board as an agency subject to such Act.

Bill· SS. 1059 (98th)open

Equal Access Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 April 1983

Equal Access Act - Prohibits public schools that allow students to participate in extracurricular activities from denying equal access or opportunity for students and faculty to engage in voluntary prayer or religious discussion on school premises during noninstructional periods. Grants Federal court jurisdiction to hear actions for damages or injunctive relief arising out of this Act.

Bill· SS. 1051 (98th)open

Mortgage Retirement Account Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 14 April 1983

Mortgage Retirement Account Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow taxpayers an election to treat home mortgage prepayments as a tax deductible contribution to an individual retirement account. Allows amounts to be withdrawn from an individual retirement account for the purchase of a principal residence.

Bill· SS. 1003 (98th)open

Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment and Adoption Reform Act Amendments of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1983

Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment and Adoption Reform Act Amendments of 1983 - Amends the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services, through the National Center on Child Abuse and Neglect, to include, in a study and investigation of the national incidence of child abuse and neglect, a determination of those incidents of child abuse and neglect which involve the denial of nutrition, medically indicated treatment, general care, or appropriate social services to infants at risk with life-threatening congenital impairments. Requires that the study's findings be submitted, with recommendations for administrative and legislative changes, to the Congress within two years after the effective date of this Act. Deletes outdated plan provisions. Directs the Secretary, in consultation with the Advisory Board on Child Abuse and Neglect, to provide technical assistance and training to States for development and implementation of procedures to be followed by appropriate agencies or individuals to insure that nutrition, medically indicated treatment, general care, and appropriate social services are provided to infants at risk with life-threatening congenital impairments. Requires that such procedures be in place throughout the State within two years after enactment of this Act, in order for a State to qualify for grants for child abuse and neglect prevention and treatment programs. Requires the establishment of procedures for any interested person to report to the appropriate authorities denial of such care or services. Extends through FY 1986 the authorization of appropriations under such Act for child abuse and neglect and sexual abuse of children prevention and treatment programs. Requires that a specified amount of such funds be used for grants to States for programs for prevention, identification, and treatment of sexual abuse of children. Directs the Advisory Board on Child Abuse and Neglect to assist the Secretary in coordinating adoption related activities of the Federal Government, including services to pregnant teenaged children considering adoption as a plan for their infants, services to couples experiencing infertility, adoption referral services for infants at risk with life-threatening congenital impairments, and services for children legally free for adoption and in need of adoptive homes. Makes technical and conforming amendments. Amends the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment and Adoption Reform Act of 1978 to include pregnancy counseling, which presents adoption as a positive alternative, among those quality standards for adoption services to be promoted by the Department of Health and Human Services. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) review all model adoption legislation and procedures developed or promulgated under such Act for the purpose of making appropriate changes to facilitate adoption opportunities for infants at risk with life-threatening congenital impairments; and (2) coordinate efforts to improve State legislation with national, State, and local child and family services, including organizations representative of minorities and adoptive families. Directs the Secretary, after consultation with other appropriate Federal departments and agencies, including the Bureau of the Census, to provide for the establishment and operation of a Federal adoption and foster care data-gathering and analysis system. Includes adoptive family groups and minority groups among those nonprofit organizations which may receive Federal contracts to provide technical assistance for adoption programs. Directs the Secretary to: (1) encourage involvement of corporations and small businesses in supporting adoption as a positive family-strengthening option, including the establishment of adoption benefit programs for employees who adopt children; and (2) continue to study the nature, scope, and effects of placement of children in adoptive homes by unlicensed and unregulated persons or agencies, including the legal status of surrogate parenting. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1985.

Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 74 (98th)reported

A joint resolution to express the sense of the Congress that the United States should promote the goal of strategic stability and reduce the risk of nuclear war through a balanced program of force modernization together with negotiations to achieve substantial, verifiable and militarily significant reductions to equal levels in the nuclear arsenals of both superpowers.

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1983

Declares that the United States should: (1) pursue a program of strategic nuclear-force modernization; (2) seek to preserve balanced force capabilities through force modernization and arms-reduction negotiations; (3) continue to pursue negotiated mutual and verifiable reductions in the nuclear arsenals of both superpowers; and (4) agree to arms reductions within the framework of the present START and INF negotiations.

Bill· SS. 914 (98th)open

A bill to protect firearms owners' constitutional rights, civil liberties, and rights to privacy.

United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1983

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, dealer, or importer of firearms a person who manufacturers 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. Requires such transfer to be face to face. Presumes a licensee to have actual knowledge of the published laws of the State. 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, under specific circumstances. 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. Allows the government to voluntarily dismiss criminal charges prior to trial and still proceed with revocation. Imposes as a condition for the inspection or examination of records, documents, firearms, or ammunition that the Secretary has reasonable cause to believe that a violation has occurred and that evidence may be found on the premises. Requires a warrant be issued for such search. 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 requirement, currently applicable only to second offenders, that the court not suspend any sentence or grant probation. 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 Gun Control 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. 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. Imposes on the applicant the burden of proof. 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). 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).

Bill· SS. 859 (98th)reported

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to require the continued payment of disability compensation at an unreduced rate pending review and appeal of a determination to reduce or discontinue such compensation by reason of a change in service-connected or employability status or in physical condition in the case of any veteran whose disability has been rated as total for a period of at least ten years ending on the date such determination was made, who files a statement of disagreement with such determination, and who requests such continued payment, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1983

Prohibits the reduction of a rating of permanent total disability which has been continuously in force for ten years until a decision making such a reduction is final.

Bill· SS. 863 (98th)open

Enterprise Zone Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1983

Enterprise Zone Act of 1983 - Title I: Designation of Enterprise Zones - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for the designation of enterprise zones by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development for purposes of extending the tax incentives and regulatory flexibility measures provided by this Act. Specifies that State and local governments shall nominate areas for such designation. Limits the designation of enterprise zones to 75 nominated areas per year (one-third of which must be in rural areas). Limits the period during which such designations shall remain in effect. Specifies that the Secretary may designate such zones only if: (1) the area is within the jurisdiction of the local government; (2) the boundary of the area is continuous; (3) the area has a population of at least 4,000 if any portion thereof is located within a standard metropolitan statistical area (within a population of at least 50,000) or 1,000 otherwise, or is within an Indian reservation; and (4) the area meets specified unemployment and poverty requirements. Requires nominating local governments, as a condition of the Secretary's designation, to agree in writing to follow a course of action which may include reducing tax rates, improving local services, simplifying or streamling regulation of business, or receiving commitments of private entities to assist employees and residents of the area. Terminates the authority of the Secretary to designate enterprise zones on June 30, 1986 or three years after the publication of regulations pertaining to such zones, whichever is later. Describes areas to which preference shall be given in deciding to designate enterprise zones. Requires the Secretary to prepare and submit to the Congress every four years a report on the effects of such enterprise zones' designation. Requires that any property tax reduction effected by a local government under the terms of this Act be disregarded for purposes of determining the eligibility of a State or local government for Federal assistance or benefits. States that designation of an enterprise zone shall not give displaced persons from such an area any rights or benefits under the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970. Exempts enterprise zones from certain requirements relating to Federal environmental policy. Title II: Federal Income Tax Incentives - Subtitle A: Credits for Employers and Employees - Allows employers located in enterprise zones a nonrefundable income tax credit for increased employment expenditures and employment of the disadvantaged. Allows a three year carryback and 15 year carryover of such credit. Sets the amount of such credit at ten percent of the increase in payroll (taking into account a maximum of $15,000 in wages per year per employee) plus 50 percent of the wages paid to certain disadvantaged workers for the first three years of the enterprise zone designation. Phases out such credit in the last three years of the enterprise zone designation. Disallows a deduction for the portion of wages taken into account for such credit. Allows employees located in enterprise zones a nonrefundable income tax credit equal to five percent of qualified wages earned per year (taking into account a maximum of $9,000 in wages per year). Phases out such credit in the last three years of the enterprise zone designation. Subtitle B: Credits for Investment in Tangible Property in Enterprise Zones - Allows businesses an additional investment tax credit for investment in certain tangible property located in enterprise zones. Limits such credit to five percent for zone personal property and ten percent for new zone construction property, including rental property. Requires that the property subject to such credit be predominantly used in the zone, be purchased after zone designation, and not be acquired from relatives or related corporations. Requires the recapture of such credit upon early disposition of the property. Phases out such credit in the last three years of the enterprise zone designation. Subtitle C: Reduction in Capital Gain Tax Rates - Eliminates the capital gains tax on property of corporations acquired after the enterprise zone designation and used in a zone business. Qualifies certain low-income rental housing located in an enterprise zone for such treatment. Permits property to remain qualified for purposes of the revised capital gains treatment after a designation of an enterprise zone has terminated. Exempts gain from the sale or exchange of property used in a business in an enterprise zone from the computation of the minimum tax. Allows noncorporate taxpayers to deduct from gross income 100 percent of any net capital gain from qualified enterprise zone property. Subtitle D: Rules Relating to Industrial Development Bonds - Provides that limitations on the cost recovery deductions for property financed with tax-exempt industrial development bonds shall not apply to enterprise zone property. Provides that the termination of the small issue exemption shall not apply to industrial development bonds the proceeds of which are used to finance facilities in such enterprise zones. Subtitle E: Sense of the Congress with Respect to Tax Simplification - Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Internal Revenue Service should simplify the administration and enforcement of any provision of the Internal Revenue Code affected by this Act. Title III: Regulatory Flexibility - Revises the definition of "small entity" for purposes of the analysis of regulatory functions, to include qualified businesses (as defined in Title II of this Act), to include governments, and nonprofit enterprises operating within enterprise zones. Authorizes Federal agencies, upon request by a designating government, to waive or modify rules and regulations which pertain to the carrying out of projects or activities within an enterprise zone. Requires agencies to approve such request if the resulting benefits of job creation, community development, or economic revitalization outweigh the public interest in continuation of the rule unchanged. Disallows waiver or modification of a rule that would directly violate a statutory requirement (including the Davis-Bacon Act and Fair Labor Standards Act) or which would present a danger to the public health and safety. Provides that such waivers or modifications of a rule shall remain in effect as long as the zone designations. Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to promote the coordination of all enterprise zone programs and consolidate all periodic reports required under such programs into one summary report. Title IV: Establishment of Foreign-Trade Zones in Enterprise Zones - Requires the Foreign-Trade Board to consider on a priority basis and expedite the processing of applications for the establishment of foreign-trade zones within enterprise zones. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to give priority to, and expedite applications for, the establishment of ports of entry necessary to establish such zones. States that to the maximum extent practicable foreign-trade zones should be established within enterprise zones.

Bill· SS. 810 (98th)open

A bill to amend the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to provide for adjustments in campaign contribution limits.

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1983

Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to increase the ceilings on contributions by individuals to: (1) candidates (from $1,000 to $2,000 per election) or their authorized political committees (from $5,000 to $8,500 per year); (2) national party political committees (from $20,000 to $33,900 per year); and (3) all candidates and political committees together (from $25,000 to $48,900 per year). Increases the ceilings on contributions by multicandidate political committees to: (1) specified candidates (from $5,000 to $9,800 per election) and their authorized political committees (from $5,000 to $8,500 per year); and (2) national party political committees (from $15,000 to $25,400 per year). Increases from $17,500 to $29,700 per election year the ceiling on contributions to a senatorial candidate by a national party senatorial campaign committee.

Bill· SS. 775 (98th)referred

A bill entitled the "Government Accountability Act of 1983".

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1983

Amends the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) to include Federal liability for the constitutional torts of Federal employees acting within the scope of employment. Limits money damages for such torts to specified amounts. Makes the remedy provided by the FTCA exclusive of any other civil action arising out of the same subject matter. Substitutes such remedy for any recovery against the Federal employee's individual capacity. Requires that the United States be substituted as party defendant upon certification by the Attorney General that the defendant employee was acting within the scope of employment. Makes such certification binding and conclusive. Declares that upon removal of a civil action from a State court to a U.S. district court, the United States is entitled to all defenses to which it would have been entitled had the action been originally commenced under this Act. Directs the Attorney General, where an action results in a judgment against the United States, to forward the matter to the employing agency for further investigation or disciplinary action. Eliminates as exceptions to the FTCA the following torts: assault, battery, false imprisonment, false arrest, malicious prosecution and abuse of process. Exempts specified agencies from tort claims arising under the Constitution. Authorizes specified agencies to provide liability insurance for employees performing medical functions under employment conditions where the United States would not be liable for employee's actions. Exempts U.S. employees acting within the scope of employment from civil liability for: (1) unlawfully intercepting or disclosing wire or oral communications; and (2) conducting electronic surveillance or disclosing information obtained by electronic surveillance.

Bill· SS. 633 (98th)referred

A bill entitled the "Government Accountability Act of 1983."

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1983

Amends the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) to include Federal liability for the constitutional torts of Federal employees acting within the scope of employment. Limits money damages for such torts to specified amounts. Makes the remedy provided by the FTCA exclusive of any other civil action arising out of the same subject matter. Substitutes such remedy for any recovery against the Federal employee's individual capacity. Requires that the United States be substituted as party defendant upon certification by the Attorney General that the defendant employee was acting within the scope of employment. Makes such certification binding and conclusive. Declares that upon removal of a civil action from a State court to a U.S. district court, the United States is entitled to all defenses to which it would have been entitled had the action been originally commenced under this Act. Directs the Attorney General, where an action results in a judgment against the United States, to forward the matter to the employing agency for further investigation or disciplinary action. Eliminates as exceptions to the FTCA the following torts: assault, battery, false imprisonment, false arrest, malicious prosecution and abuse of process. Exempts specified agencies from tort claims arising under the Constitution. Authorizes specified agencies to provide liability insurance for employees performing medical functions under employment conditions where the United States would not be liable for employee's actions. Exempts U.S. employees acting within the scope of employment from civil liability for: (1) unlawfully intercepting or disclosing wire or oral communications; and (2) conducting electronic surveillance or disclosing information obtained by electronic surveillance.

Bill· SS. 636 (98th)open

Veterans Administration Adjudication Procedure and Judicial Review Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1983

Veterans Administration Adjudication Procedure and Judicial Review Act - Title I: Adjudication Procedures - Codifies, for Veterans Administration (VA) adjudication purposes, the burden of proof and reasonable doubt standards currently provided for by VA regulation. States that a claimant has the burden of submitting sufficient evidence to justify his or her claim, and that if an approximate balance of positive and negative evidence exists regarding the merits of a claim, the VA is to resolve such doubt in favor of the claimant. States that VA subpoenas may be served either by personal delivery or by registered or certified mail. Increases the maximum size of the Board of Veterans' Appeals from 50 to 65 members. Requires the chairman of such Board to submit an annual report to the appropriate congressional committees concerning the Board's current handling of cases and projections for the subsequent fiscal year. Requires the Board to: (1) provide notice to a claimant and an opportunity for a hearing before a decision may be based on "additional official information" received after a Board decision has previously been made; and (2) make its decision exclusively on evidence and material of record in the proceeding. Removes the requirement that new material sufficient to allow the Board to reopen a previously disallowed claim be in the form of official reports. Provides that the Board's discretionary authority to reopen a claim will not be diminished by a judicial decision following an appeal as provided for by this Act. Requires the Board to mail to the claimant notice of its decision and the reasons for such decision. Provides that, upon the request of a claimant, the Board shall provide an independent advisory medical opinion when there exists substantial medical disagreement with respect to a material issue in a veteran's appeal. Sets forth new procedural rules for adjudication hearings regarding: (1) oaths, affirmations, and witness examination; (2) admissibility of evidence; (3) procedural rights of claimants; (4) disqualification of a hearing officer; (5) the record of the proceedings and the claimants' right to examine and obtain a copy of such record; and (6) the exclusiveness of veterans' adjudication procedures and rights prescribed by the Administrator. Requires the Administrator to provide at each stage of the appeal proceedings written notice to a claimant of procedural rights and procedures. Directs the Administrator to conduct a study of two alternative claims resolution methods, one a new intermediate-level adjudication process, the other an enhanced schedule of formal Appeals Board hearings. Directs the Administrator to report to Congress on such studies. Title II: Veterans' Administration Rule Making - Includes the VA's rulemaking procedures under the relevant provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act. Title III: Judicial Review - Provides for judicial review of VA decisions in the Federal court system. States with regard to jurisdiction: (1) the definition of final decision; (2) that judicial review of a final decision in a claim for benefits may be obtained in a civil action brought within 180 days of the Board's mailing of notice of its decision, and that such action shall be brought in Federal district court; (3) that the VA shall file the various materials constituting the record in a case together with its answer to the claimant's complaint; (4) that the court may render a decision on the pleadings; and (5) that the judicial review procedures established under this Act shall not apply to insurance and home loans. States, with regard to the reviewing court's scope of review, that such court: (1) decide questions of law and interpret constitutional, statutory, and regulatory provisions, but that questions of fact (unless unsupported by substantial evidence) will not be subject to a trial de novo; and (2) in reviewing a final decision of the VA which is adverse to a party solely because such party failed to comply with VA procedures, such court may only review questions concerning such procedures. Sets out provisions regarding remand, survival of actions, and appellate review. Title IV: Attorneys' Fees - Authorizes the Administrator to allow attorneys' fees above the present $10 maximum if the appealing party's claim is allowed by the VA after an initial denial. States that such fee shall be the lesser of: (1) the fee agreed upon by the party and attorney; (2) $500, unless the Administrator approves a greater amount; or (3) if the party and attorney have entered into a contingent-fee agreement, not more than 25 percent of the total of any past-due benefits awarded on the basis of such party's claim. Provides for the approval of attorneys' fees, in successful veterans' claims brought before a court, as provided for under this Act. States that such fees shall be determined by such court, and in contingent-fee agreements such fees shall not exceed 25 percent of the total of any past-due benefits awarded on the basis of such claim. Authorizes attorneys' fees of up to $750 in certain unsuccessful veterans' claims. Prohibits the VA from authorizing payment to a claimant's attorney based on past-due benefits unless such benefits are owed as of the date of the VA's or a court's award. States that such provisions regarding attorneys' fees shall only apply to claims for benefits under the laws administered by the VA and shall not apply in cases in which the VA is the plaintiff or in which other attorneys' fees statutes are otherwise controlling. Title V: Effective Dates - Sets forth the effective dates for this Act.

Bill· SS. 627 (98th)open

Columbia River Gorge Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1983

Columbia River Gorge Act of 1983 - Establishes the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area as a unit of the national forest system. Extends the boundaries of the Mount Hood National Forest in Oregon and of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest in Washington State to include all the lands in their respective States lying within the Area which are not within their boundaries on the enactment of this Act. Provides that national forest system lands in Oregon which are within the Area shall be treated as components of the Mount Hood National Forest and national forest system lands in Washington which are within the Area shall be treated as components of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest for purposes of providing forest system revenues to a State or local government. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to administer the Area and to provide all interested parties with an opportunity to participate in plans and programs for the management of the Area. Establishes in the Department of Agriculture the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area Regional Commission, which shall be composed of members from both Oregon and Washington as well as the Chief of the Forest Service. Makes the Commission responsible for: (1) assisting the Chief of the Forest Service in the establishment of a management plan for the Area; (2) facilitating communication and coordination among the Federal, State, and local governmental agencies with jurisdiction within the Area and with residents and landowners within the Area; (3) reviewing and monitoring the implementation of the management plan by such governmental agencies; (4) reviewing all land acquisition proposals submitted by the Secretary in cases involving the potential use of eminent domain; (5) reviewing all Federal development projects within the Area for consistency with the management plan; and (6) preparing an annual report for the Secretary, Congress, and the Governors of Oregon and Washington on the status and implementation of the management plan. Requires the Chief of the Forest Service to prepare a management plan for the Area. Requires the Chief of the Forest Service to consult with the Commission and with State and local government authorities within the Area during preparation of the management plan. Authorizes the Secretary to provide financial and technical assistance to such authorities to carry out land use management activities. Directs the Secretary to incorporate State and local policies, management plans, standards, and requirements into the management plan and resolve any conflicts with the State and local authorities concerned. Requires that the management plan be submitted to the Commission for approval. Authorizes the Secretary to modify and resubmit any plan disapproved by the Commission. Authorizes the Secretary to adopt a resubmitted management plan without the Commission's approval. Permits requests for amendments to or variances from the management plan to be submitted to the Secretary. Prohibits the construction or modification of any facility in the critical portions of the Area before the Secretary's adoption of interim guidelines which shall govern all land use activities within the Area until the management plan is adopted. Requires that Federal activities within the Area be consistent with the interim guidelines and the management plan. Sets forth the procedure for the Secretary's approval of any such activities. Requires the Secretary to permit hunting and fishing on lands and waters under his or her jurisdiction within the Area. Directs the Secretary to monitor all land use activities within the Area prior to the adoption of the management plan to prevent violations of the interim land use guidelines. Requires local governments which have land use planning authority under State law and wish to enforce the management plan within the Area to submit to the Secretary and the Commission a land use plan consistent with the management plan. Requires the Secretary to approve or disapprove such a local plan within six months after its submission. Authorizes the Secretary to make annual grants to local governments to assist them in establishing such land use plans. Directs the Secretary to enforce the management plan if no approved local land use plan is in effect. Imposes criminal penalties for violations of regulations or orders issued pursuant to this Act. Authorizes the Attorney General, at the Secretary's request, to institute a civil action for an injunction or other order to prevent the use of lands in the Area in violation of the management plan. Provides for administrative and judicial review of such violations. Authorizes the Secretary to acquire lands classified as critical lands under the management plan without the owner's consent, unless, as of July 1, 1981, such lands were used primarily for single family residential purposes, farming, or grazing. Requires the Secretary to consider sale offers made by Area landowners. Authorizes the Secretary to acquire non-Federal lands within the Area by exchange. Provides that State lands may be acquired only by donation or exchange. Permits the transfer of Federal property within the Area to the Secretary without consideration. Requires that property thus acquired be: (1) transferred to the jurisdiction of the National Forest Service for inclusion in the national forest system; or (2) sold on terms to assure the use of such property in a manner consistent with the management plan. Authorizes appropriations. Makes appropriations from the Land and Water Conservation Fund available for land acquisition within the Area. Establishes an acquisition fund for land acquisition within the Area. Authorizes appropriations for the initial capital of the fund. Authorizes the Secretary to accept contributions which shall be credited to the fund. Authorizes the Secretary to make payments to local governments to mitigate property tax revenue losses resulting from Federal acquisition of real property within the Area. Limits the authority under this Act to enter into contracts or to make payments to the extent and the amounts provided in advance in appropriation Acts. Makes provisions of this Act which authorize new budget authority effective only for FY 1983 and thereafter.

Bill· SS. 617 (98th)referred

Renewable Energy National Security Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1983

Renewable Energy National Security Act of 1983 - Requires the Secretary of a military department, when procuring energy systems, to procure systems that include energy-conserving equipment. Includes biofuels as a renewable form of energy for purposes of energy systems procurement by a military department. Requires the Secretary of Defense to provide for the use of biofuels in meeting Department of Defense energy needs to the extent feasible and consistent with overall defense needs. Requires the Secretary of Defense to encourage the use of energy-conserving devices and equipment in military construction projects, including family housing projects, where practical and economically feasible. Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to include spoiled and contaminated grains among the accumulated stocks of agricultural commodities which the Commodity Credit Corporation may process into liquid fuels. Authorizes the Corporation to provide for the storage of liquid fuels so processed for use by the agricultural sector during periods of fuel shortages. Requires the Corporation to provide for the processing of spoiled and contaminated commodities into liquid fuels before the processing of stocks of usable feedstock. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to require the Secretary of Energy to maintain a data base on the location of all stockpiles of renewable energy supplies and biofuels and of all renewable energy production facilities in the United States. Requires that such data be made available to Government departments and agencies upon request. Requires the Secretary of Defense to assess and report to the Armed Services Committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate on the feasibility of using mobile energy systems that use renewable energy as emergency backup energy systems at military installations.

Law· SS. 602 (98th)enacted

Radio Broadcasting to Cuba Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1983

Radio Broadcasting to Cuba Act - Amends the Board for International Broadcasting Act of 1973 in order to authorize the Board to provide for radio broadcasting to Cuba. Authorizes the Board to carry out such broadcasting by means of grants, leases, contracts, or other necessary means. Requires such broadcasting to serve as an authoritative source of accurate, objective, and comprehensive news. Sets forth frequency requirements. Authorizes any U.S. agency or instrumentality to sell, lease, or grant property, and to provide administrative and technical support and services on a reimbursable basis at the request of the Board. Prohibits any grant under this Act to Radio Broadcasting to Cuba, Inc., unless such corporation's board of directors and the board of directors of the Board for International Broadcasting consist of the same persons making all major policy decisions for such corporation.

Bill· SS. 593 (98th)open

Federal Meat and Poultry Products Inspection Act of 1982

United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1983

Federal Meat and Poultry Products Inspection Act of 1982 - Amends the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the Poultry Products Inspection Act to permit distribution in interstate commerce of certain State-inspected meat and poultry products. Requires States to use official marks on meat and poultry products inspected under State law. Authorizes meat and poultry processing establishments to transfer from State to Federal inspection or vice versa on October 1 of each year upon the approval of the Secretary of Agriculture. Requires State-inspected products which are distributed in interstate commerce to meet Federal marking, labeling, packaging, and ingredient requirements.