United States · United States Congress · 9 July 1981
Changes the 90-day limitation under which the President may order members of the Selected Reserve to active duty other than during war or national emergency to such length of time as he considers necessary to protect the national security. Repeals the provision of law limiting 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.
United States · United States Congress · 8 July 1981
Directs the Postmaster General to issue a commemorative postage stamp to honor the seventieth anniversary of the founding of the Girl Scouts of the United States of America. Provides that such stamp shall be issued in the denomination used for first-class mail up to one ounce in weight and shall be placed on sale on March 12, 1982.
United States · United States Congress · 8 July 1981
Waives certain requirements of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 with respect to the consideration of S. 1085 (Head Start and Child abuse programs).
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1981
Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) military personnel and native Americans on reservations should not have to pay tuition for their children's elementary and secondary public education; (2) local school districts with substantial percentages of students from homes where parents live and work on Federal property or live on Indian reservations should be financially assisted in meeting such students' educational needs; (3) negotiations between the Departments of Defense and Education and between the Senate Committees on Labor and Human Resources and on Armed Services are positive steps toward resolving impact aid difficulties caused by proposed budget cuts; (4) the Select Committee on Indian Affairs and the Secretary of the Interior should take part in such negotiations; and (5) a compromise leading to an equitable solution to the impact aid dilemma is in the best interests of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1981
Declares that it is the general policy of the Federal Government to rely on competitive private industry to supply the products and services it needs. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, in coordination with the Administrator of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy, to administer such policy.
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 1981
National Port and Navigation Improvement Act of 1981 - Title I: Short Title: Findings and Purposes and Objectives; Definitions - Sets forth the findings of Congress concerning deep-draft commercial ports in the United States. Title II: Priority Navigation Projects - Directs the Secretary of the Army, through the Chief of Engineers, to prepare, maintain, and submit to Congress within one year after enactment of this Act, a deep- draft commercial port maintenance program. Specifies that such program shall include a schedule of required maintenance dredging projects. Directs the Secretary, in cooperation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, to submit to Congress a programmatic environmental impact statement, including an analysis of the adequacy of deep-draft commercial ports to accommodate increasing import and export trade. Requires the Secretary to enter into memorandums of agreement with: (1) the Administrator in regard to the disposal of dredged and fill material into navigable waters; and (2) the Secretaries of the Interior and Commerce concerning the environmental aspects of the maintenance and improvement of federally authorized channels in deep-draft commercial ports. Provides for veto of such maintenance program and environmental impact statement by concurrent resolution of Congress within 60 days. Authorizes the Secretary of the Army, for a period of five years (subject to reapproval by resolution of specified congressional committees), to perform maintenance dredging of federally authorized channels. Directs the Secretary to submit to Congress modifications of existing environmental impact statements for certain navigation improvement projects. Authorizes the Secretary to undertake navigation improvements in deep-draft commercial ports on a priority basis under specified circumstances. Sets forth procedures by which the Secretary shall submit feasibility studies, survey reports, and environmental impact statements to Congress. Declares that the absence of a concurrent congressional resolution of disapproval within 60 days following receipt of such study, report, or environmental impact statement shall constitute a determination by Congress that: (1) the navigation improvement project is in the national interest for purposes of the Federal consistency provisions of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972; (2) the final environmental impact statement is adequate; and (3) the project is in compliance with the Water Pollution Control Act and the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act of 1972. Directs the Secretary to expedite construction and operation of marine cargo handling facilities at such deep-draft commercial ports. Exempts such environmental impact statements and other actions to carry out such projects from judicial review, with specified exceptions. Title III: Priority Navigation Project Financing - Requires that the Secretary and the port proposing such navigational improvements enter into an agreement which provides that such port pay no more than 40 percent of the project construction cost and no more than 25 percent of operation and maintenance costs. Declares that this Act shall not be construed to prohibit non-Federal public bodies from securing financing through means other than provided for in this Act. Authorizes an affected non-Federal public body to provide for recovery of its reimbursement obligations by the collection of user fees from vessels in commercial waterway transportation in such deep-draft ports. Authorizes the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretaries of Commerce, State, Transportation, Treasury, Energy, and Agriculture, the Attorney General, and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, to promulgate regulations and guidelines to govern such programs of non-Federal fee collection. Declares that this Act shall not be construed to prohibit the Department of the Army or other Federal authority to operate, maintain, or improve any deep-draft channel or deep-draft commercial port for purposes of Coast Guard navigation requirements or other national defense transportation requirements. Directs the Secretary of the Army to designate a cost allocation of or for national defense and noncommercial purposes of 60 percent for construction and 75 percent for operation and maintenance of deep-draft commercial port navigation improvement projects. Authorizes the Secretary to study, design, construct, rehabilitate, operate, and maintain such deep-draft ports without Federal contribution if the appropriate non-Federal public body agrees to reimburse the Federal Government for all related costs. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exempt from taxation the interest on obligations for such deep- draft commercial ports navigation improvement projects. Title IV: Miscellaneous Provisions - Authorizes appropriations. Allows the Secretary, upon congressional approval, to transfer funds from existing Department of the Army civil appropriations pending appropriation of such authorized sums. Directs the Secretary to report annually to Congress on the actual and anticipated receipts of the United States pursuant to this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 1981
Family Protection Act - States as the purposes of this Act the strengthening of the American family and the elimination of governmental policies which diminish its strength and prosperity. Title I: Family Preservation - Establishes a legal presumption in favor of an expansive interpretation of the parents' role in supervising and determining the religious or moral formation of their child. Requires the notification of parents or guardians before a federally-funded program, project, or entity may provide contraceptive or abortion services to an unmarried minor. Prohibits Federal preemption of State laws relating to child or spousal abuse or juvenile delinquency. Prohibits the expenditure of Federal funds for child abuse programs in any State unless the legislature of such State has specifically authorized such programs. Defines "child abuse and neglect" as physical or mental injury, sexual abuse or exploitation, negligent treatment, or maltreatment. Excludes from such definition discipline or corporal punishment applied by a parent or an individual authorized to act in the place of such parent. Amends the Legal Services Corporation Act to prohibit legal assistance for any proceeding or litigation: (1) to compel an abortion or State or Federal funding for an abortion; (2) to obtain a divorce; or (3) to adjudicate the issue of homosexual rights. Directs the Secretary of the branch of the Armed Forces concerned to deduct from the monthly pay and allowances of a member of such Armed Forces who is living separately from his or her dependents an amount sufficient to provide for the support of such dependents. Prohibits the use of Federal funds by any organization which advocates, promotes, or suggests male or female homosexuality as a life style. Title II: Taxation - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a taxpayer an income tax deduction for contributions to a savings account established to pay his expenses or those of a dependent at an educational institution (pre-school through college). Limits the amount of such deduction to $2,500 for a taxable year and permits only one account to be established on behalf of any individual. Provides for an inflation adjustment of such amount, based on the Consumer Price Index. Exempts from income taxation any distributions from such accounts which are used exclusively to meet the educational expenses of the dependent child. Treats qualified distributions as income to the beneficiary for the taxable year in which the beneficiary attains age 25, and for each of the following nine years, in successive installments equal to ten percent of the total amount of such distributions. Grants tax-exempt status to certain private educational institutions. Provides for the termination of the tax exemption of a school which is found to discriminate in the hiring of teachers or the admission of students on the basis of race, nationality, or ethnic background. Allows individuals who maintain a household which includes a dependent who has reached age 65 a nonrefundable income tax credit not in excess of $250 for the taxable year. Allows such individuals to take an income tax deduction in lieu of the credit. Limits the amount of such deduction to $1,000 for the taxable year. Allows an income tax deduction for contributions to a trust established by a taxpayer to provide care to such taxpayer's parents or handicapped relatives. Limits the amount of such deduction to $3,000 for a taxable year. Provides for the tax exemption of such trusts. Permits married individuals to compute on a separate basis the maximum retirement savings deduction to which each individual is entitled. Permits a maximum deduction of $3,000 for a spouse who is handicapped. Grants tax-exempt status to organizations providing day care for children. Allows contributors to a tax-exempt day care center to claim a business expense deduction for contributions not deductible as a charitable contribution. Allows an additional personal tax exemption of $1,000 for each child born to or adopted by a taxpayer during the taxable year. Permits an exemption of $3,000 for the adoption of a handicapped child over the age of three whose parents are not of the same race or for a child born to the taxpayer who is handicapped. Permits an income tax deduction from gross income for fees, court costs, attorney's fees, and other necessary expenses incurred in the adoption of a child. Limits the amount of such deduction to a maximum of $3,500 ($4,500 for an international adoption), with a $500 deductible. Title III: Education - Amends the General Education Provisions Act to prohibit payments under such Act to Federal, State, or local educational agencies or institutions which: (1) prohibit the involvement of parents and representatives of the community in decisions relating to the establishment or continuation of religious studies; (2) limit parental visits to public schools or classes or the right of parents to inspect their children's school records; (3) require the payment of dues or fees as a condition of employment for teachers; or (4) prohibit parental review of textbooks prior to their use in the classroom. States that no Federal funds may be made available for textbooks which do not reflect a balance between the status role of men and women and do not contribute to the American way of life. Guarantees the right of any State or local educational agency to set qualifications for teachers, set attendance requirements for students, and to limit or prohibit the intermingling of sexes in sports or other school-related activities. Amends the National Labor Relations Act to exclude from the definition of "employer" any corporation or association operating a school. Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to authorize appropriations for the payment of allotments to States for the financing of elementary and secondary school programs. Directs the Secretary of Education to terminate the payment of such allotments if the programs for which funds are paid no longer comply with specified requirements. Permits judicial review of any finding of the Secretary with respect to applications for funding or termination of payments to a State. Prohibits the exercise of Federal control over the curriculum, administration, or personnel of any State or local school system. Repeals certain titles of such Act providing: (1) financial assistance to meet special educational needs of children; (2) basic skills improvement; (3) special projects; (4) educational improvement, resources, and support; (5) bilingual education programs; and (6) additional special programs. States that nothing in this Act or in other Federal law shall prohibit release time for parenthood education to be conducted by churches or parents. Amends the Legal Services Corporation Act to prohibit legal assistance in any proceeding or litigation relating to racial quotas or the desegregation of elementary or secondary schools. Title IV: Voluntary Prayer and Religious Meditation - Voluntary Prayer and Religious Meditation Act of 1981 - States that individuals shall have the right to participate in voluntary prayer or religious meditation in any public building or other building supported by Federal funds. Prohibits Federal, State, or political subdivisions from abridging the free exercise of such prayer or meditation. Authorizes civil actions for violations of this title. Title V: Rights of Religious Institutions and Educational Affiliates - Prohibits the Federal Government from imposing legal requirements upon the operation of a church organization which sponsors a child care center, orphanage, foster home, social action training program, emergency shelter for abused children or spouses, school, or juvenile delinquency or drug abuse treatment center or home. Title VI: Miscellaneous - Grants jurisdiction to United States district courts to hear any cases arising under this Act. Provides for a six-year statute of limitations on actions brought under this Act. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress on the administration of this Act and the progress of the States in effectuating its provisions. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 June 1981
Amends title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Prohibition of Sex Discrimination) to restrict the scope of such title to students. Limits the applicability of such title to those educational programs or activities which themselves receive Federal financial assistance which a Federal agency is expressly authorized by statute to extend by grant, loan, or contract (other than a contract of insurance or guaranty). Makes such title inapplicable to any educational program or activity on the basis that a student receives Federal financial aid, regardless of whether such aid is received through the institution. Applies the discrimination prohibition to any institution which has substantial responsibility for administering a Federal student aid program and has discretion to determine the receipt of assistance. Applies such title to admissions to institutions conducting federally assisted programs or activities.
United States · United States Congress · 11 June 1981
Amends the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure to require a court to impose consecutive sentences on any defendant who commits and is convicted of a felony while on bail or release on personal recognizance for another offense and is also convicted of the original offense.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Debt Collection Act of 1981 - Amends the Privacy Act of 1974 to permit a Federal agency to disclose individual records to a consumer reporting agency. Authorizes a Federal agency attempting to collect a claim under the Federal Claims Collection Act of 1966 to notify a consumer reporting agency that a person is responsible for a claim if: (1) the agency has sent a written notice informing the person that a consumer reporting agency will be contacted, describing the information to be disclosed, and explaining the person's right to dispute the agency's claim; (2) the person has not agreed to repay the claim or filed for review of the claim; (3) the agency, upon request, has reviewed the claim; and (4) the agency has obtained assurances that the consumer reporting agency complies with Federal laws governing the provision of consumer credit information. Requires the agency to notify the consumer reporting agency promptly concerning any change in the status or amount of the claim. Directs Federal agencies to require any individual applying for credit or financial assistance, which may result in indebtedness to the Government, to furnish his or her social security numbers. Authorizes an agency (including the United States Postal Service) to deduct installment payments from the pay of an employee or member of the Armed Forces or Armed Forces Reserve to offset any debts owed the Government. Limits the amount deducted to 25 percent of the individual's disposable pay. Makes murder or manslaughter of a Federal debt collector a Federal offense. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to authorize the Secretary of the Treasury to disclose to a Federal agency: (1) information concerning the tax liability of a Federal loan applicant; and (2) the mailing address of a taxpayer for use by employees or agents of the agency in collecting or compromising a Federal claim. Increases the rate of interest on delinquent taxes to 100 percent (currently 90 percent) of the prime rate quoted by commercial banks to large businesses. Permits the annual (currently biennial) adjustment of such interest rate. Allows the Government to collect claims by administrative offset beyond the six year statute of limitations on actions brought by the Government for money damages. Directs each agency to charge a minimum annual rate of interest on outstanding debts and to assess a penalty charge and handling costs on delinquent claims, except where another statute, statutorily mandated regulation, loan agreement, or contract either prohibits or explicitly fixes interest or penalty charges. Declares that service of legal process brought for the collection of U.S. claims shall be accomplished in accordance with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure or as directed by the court. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to: (1) direct each agency with outstanding debts to submit to the Director and the Department of the Treasury an annual report on the status of the agency's loans and accounts receivable; and (2) report to Congress annually on the management of agency debt collection activities.
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1981
Amends the Freedom of Information Act to exempt from the disclosure requirements matters relating to: (1) internal personnel rules and practices and training or reorientation of personnel of the Central Intelligence Agency; (2) special activities, clandestine collection, or covert operations of the CIA; and (3) internal operation, office management, or organization of the CIA. Eliminates Federal court jurisdiction to enjoin the CIA from withholding records, except personnel records of an individual the disclosure of which is necessary for obtaining employment outside the Agency.
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1981
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the continued access of farmer-owned oil refining cooperatives and independent oil refining businesses to crude oil at reasonable prices must be assured.
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 1981
Longshoremen's and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Longshoremen's and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act to revise the definition of "employee" to exclude (in addition to the currently excluded masters, or crew members, of any vessel) persons who at the time of injury were: (1) officers or employees of any government; (2) engaged in any employment which is not a direct or integral part of vessel loading, unloading, repairing, building, or breaking; or (3) providing services on or for any vessel less than 65 feet in length, while covered by a State workers' compensation program. Conforms specified conditions, under which compensation for disability or death shall be payable, to the revised definitions made by this Act. Bars compensation for injuries occasioned (formerly, "solely occasioned") by employee intoxication or intention to injure self or others. Bars compensation or benefits for injuries or occupational diseases related to material medical conditions concealed by false representations by an employee. Sets the maximum rate of compensation, with specified exceptions, at the lesser of: (1) an amount equal to 80 percent of the employee's spendable earnings; or (2) an amount equal to 200 percent of the applicable national average weekly wage. Defines "spendable earnings" as the employee's average weekly wage reduced by amounts required to be withheld under Federal and State tax laws. Directs the Secretary of Labor to publish tables in the Federal Register showing the amount of such "spendable earnings" for various wage levels. Entitles an employee to choose an attending physician from an applicable listing established by the deputy commissioner. Directs the deputy commissioner to actively supervise such medical care. Requires an attending physician who refers an employee to a medical specialist or consulting physician to notify the employer and submit a report, with reasons for such referral, to the employer and the deputy commissioner. Requires such specialist or consultants to submit reports in order to collect fees. Requires an employee seeking recovery of expenses for medical treatment or services to obtain such treatment in a specified manner and to provide written notice to the employer within ten days after the first treatment or services. Establishes procedures for providing independent medical examinations when medical questions arise. Entitles employees to specified relief in cases where the workplace injury is the sole cause of an impairment or disability. Provides for reexaminations upon request of employer or employee. Repeals specified provisions which made certain physicians ineligible for employment as independent medical examiners unless otherwise agreed to. Requires that 80 percent of spendable earnings be paid to an employee during the continuance of permanent total disability, subject to specified limitations. Requires, for a determination of total disability, that an employee prove by substantial evidence that as a result of the injury, in cases other than ones of loss of two or more specified body parts, he or she is permanently unable to earn any wages in employment. Requires that 80 percent of spendable earnings be paid to an employee during the continuance of permanent total disability, subject to specified limitations. Requires, for a determination of total disability, that an employee prove by substantial evidence that as a result of the injury, in cases other than ones of loss of two or more specified body parts, he or she is permanently unable to earn any wages in employment. Requires that 80 percent of spendable earnings be paid to an employee during the continuance of temporary total disability, subject to specified limitations. Prohibits such compensation from being paid after the employee attains the retirement age for the appropriate industry and geographical region. Sets the compensation rate for permanent partial disability at 80 percent of the spendable earnings of the employee, subject to specified limitations. Sets terms and conditions for compensation for loss of hearing. Sets the number of weeks of compensation for injuries to the spine, in the absence of a herniated or ruptured disc. Extends specified limitations to the "other cases" category of permanent partial disability compensation and terminates such compensation after the employee attains the appropriate retirement age. Deletes a provision subjecting such compensation to reconsideration of the degree of impairment by the deputy commissioner. Bars employees suffering injuries in specified categories from seeking additional compensation in this "other cases" category. Allows employers to reduce permanent partial disability compensation when an employee's actual wages (or wage earning capacity) have increased or to suspend such compensation when such wages equal or exceed average weekly wages before the injury. Requires the approval of the deputy commissioner for such reductions or suspensions, with such approval to be reviewable by an administrative law judge. Allows employees whose actual wages (or wage earning capacity) decrease, solely as a result of the injury, to less than their average weekly wage before the injury to request reviews of their compensation payments. Eliminates a provision for death benefits for the survivors of an employee who had been receiving "other cases" category permanent partial disability compensation and who dies from causes other than the original injury. Retains the current compensation rate for temporary partial disability, but subjects such rate to specified limitations. Provides for the designation by the Secretary of an attorney to serve as a special fund representative, with specified powers, upon recommendation by an employer and insurance carrier. Revises provisions relating to: (1) compensation for employees undergoing vocational rehabilitation; (2) the wage earning capacity of injured employees in partial disability cases; and (3) approval of settlements by the deputy commissioner and the manner of payment of such settlements. Provides that entitlement to compensation for disease alleged to be derived in any part from the claimant's occupation be determined by application of the substantive workers' compensation law of the State in which the last exposure to the disease-producing or aggravating stimulus occurred. Eliminates a provision for death benefits if the employee who sustains permanent total disability due to the injury thereafter dies from causes other than the injury. Revises methods of determination of the average weekly wages of injured employees at the time of injury. Revises the formula for determining yearly increases in specified compensation for permanent total disability or death. Makes revisions relating to: (1) failure to give notice; (2) the period of installment payments; (3) the right to compensation controverted; (4) penalties for overdue compensation; and (5) notice of payment. Repeals provisions concerning the deputy commissioner's authority: (1) in cases of suspended payments; and (2) to discharge the employer's liability for compensation. Limits the total money allowance payable to an employee or dependent survivors. Provides for preliminary rulings by the deputy commissioner with respect to claims to become final orders if the parties do not request a hearing. Makes other revisions in claims procedures. Repeals provisions relating to the review of compensation orders and the Benefits Review Board. Establishes a new Benefits Review Board to be appointed by the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate (the former Board was appointed by the Secretary). Transfers to such Board all officers, assets, liabilities, contracts, property, and records of the Benefits Review Board in the Department of Labor. Revises the procedures, functions, powers, and duties of such Board. Revises provisions relating to: (1) powers of the deputy commissioner or an administrative law judge in proceedings under such Act; (2) fees for services; (3) institution of proceedings by a person entitled to compensation; and (4) compromises obtained by a person entitled to compensation. Raises the criminal penalty for misrepresentation in the submission of a claim from a misdemeanor to a felony punishable by up to five years imprisonment, a $50,000 fine, or both. Prohibits the Secretary from: (1) furnishing specified information and assistance in processing claims to persons covered under such Act (formerly permitted such information and assistance upon request); and (2) participating, except as an intervenor, in proceedings relating to this Act which are before any court. Repeals provisions authorizing the Secretary of Labor to establish and enforce safety rules and regulations for employers covered by such Act. Repeals provisions relating to an administration fund and to the availability of appropriations. Provides that the discharge or refusal to employ any employee who has filed a fraudulent claim for compensation shall not be a violation of antidiscrimination provisions of such Act. Provides that nothing contained in the amendments made by this Act shall be construed to reduce the amount of any benefits being received under the Longshoremen's and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act by any individual on the date of enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1981
Amends the Clayton Act to prohibit any domestic telegraph carrier which possesses a 60 percent or greater market share of annual revenues in any tariffed service in interstate commerce from offering any service or facilities in foreign commerce if the effect of such offer would be to lessen competition substantially or to create a monopoly in the international record telecommunications market.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1981
Declares a named individual to have satisfied specified requirements under the Immigration and Nationality Act relating to required periods of residence and physical presence within the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1981
Older Americans Act Amendments of 1981 - Title I: Amendments to Title II - Administration on Aging - Amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to authorize the Commissioner of the Administration on Aging to serve as an advocate for the elderly within the Department of Health and Human Services and with other Federal departments, agencies, and instrumentalities. Eliminates the duty and function of the Administration to serve as such an advocate. Directs the Commissioner to review and comment on Federal regulations and policies regarding community health and social service development for the elderly only upon request by the head of any Federal agency or department. Eliminates the duty of the Commissioner to advise, consult, and cooperate with such heads and the duty of such heads to consult with the Commissioner. Directs the Commissioner to consult with such heads only upon their request. Eliminates the National Information and Resource Clearing House for the Aging. Repeals specified requirements for completed studies and reports. Repeals a provision that a Congressional declaration of policy respecting Insular Areas not apply to the administration of programs for older Americans. Eliminates conditions that: (1) assistance for program planning, development, establishment and operation be given to private organizations only if they are nonprofit; and (2) grant or contract recipients enter into agreements with a profit making organization only where such organization demonstrates clear superiority with respect to the quality of services covered. Repeals separate authorizations of appropriations for the Federal Council on the Aging and for the Commissioner to carry out specified duties. Title II: Amendments to Title II - Grants for State and Community Programs on Aging - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 through 1984 for grants for State and community programs on aging (without separate earmarks for particular programs). Revises formulas for grant allotments to States for such programs. Sets forth formulas for the percentages of such allotments which may be used for administrative costs of State and area plans and for costs of social services and nutrition services. Sets forth provisions relating to the non-Federal share of program funding. Requires that States use for such nutrition services from their fiscal year 1982 allotment, a specified minimum amount proportionate to that used in fiscal year 1981. Sets forth provisions relating to additional amounts for administration of State plans. Adds definitions of State plan administration and area plan administration. Specifies that a State agency on aging is only responsible to the extent feasible to review and comment on State plans, budgets, and policies affecting the elderly. Permits a State which had previously functioned as a single planning and service area to designate additional planning and service areas within the State to be administered by area agencies on aging. Revises requirements for area plans to: (1) permit such plans to cover periods of two, three, or four years; and (2) modify review and comment on responsibilities of area agencies on aging. Eliminates requirements that area agencies: (1) expend a portion of allotted funds for access, in-home, and legal services; and (2) develop and publish methods to determine priority of services. Revises requirements for State plans to: (1) permit such plans to cover two, three, or four year periods; (2) eliminate a minimum spending requirement for rural area programs. Requires that nutrition service projects be available to "older persons" (formerly, to "individuals aged 60 and older"). Revises provisions for a State long-term care ombudsman program to no longer require that such program carry out specified functions but only that it have authority to do so. Repeals a limitation on the use of nutrition services funds for social services. Eliminates requirements that a State plan: (1) provide for the delivery and coordination of legal services to the elderly; and (2) expend a specified amount to establish and operate a nursing home ombudsman program. Repeals provisions relating to specified waivers of requirements for State plans. Lowers the percentage of specified appropriated funds which must be set aside for disaster relief reimbursements (from an amount equal to five percent) to not less than three percent. Eliminates requirements that surplus agricultural commodities be purchased for and donated to nutrition services for the elderly at annually programmed levels of assistance. Continues the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture and of the Commodity Credit Corporation to make such no longer required purchases and donations. Eliminates annual assistance level requirements for such donations. Permits a State to receive commodities in lieu of cash for part of the Federal share of the cost of nutrition services. Authorizes the Commissioner and the Secretary of Agriculture to enter into an agreement under which the Secretary shall provide such commodities to the States, on a reimbursable basis. Eliminates provisions for cash payments to States in lieu of donated food commodities. Eliminates requirements that the Commissioner carry out grant programs for State social services and congregate and home-delivered nutrition services. Permits State plans for such services to include any of specified projects or services. Title III: Amendments to Title IV - Training, Research, and Discretionary Projects and Programs - Revises provisions for training, research, and discretionary projects and programs to eliminate the requirements that the Commissioner: (1) appraise personnel needs in the field of aging; (2) conduct specified studies; (3) revise existing Federal transportation programs for older individuals; (4) give special consideration to projects on the specified needs of the elderly; and (5) consult with certain Federal officials. Eliminates requirements that the Secretary of Health and Human Services: (1) involve appropriate Federal departments and agencies in carrying out such programs to insure coordination and avoid duplication of efforts; and (2) report to the Congress annually on the impact of grants made, the experience of grantees, and the comparative benefits and costs of projects assisted. Eliminates specified authority relating to certain grants programs, including: (1) training and demonstration projects for legal assistance to the elderly; (2) utility and home heating cost demonstration projects; and (3) mortgage insurance and interest grants for multipurpose senior centers. Continues the authority of the Commissioner to make grants and contracts for: (1) recruitment and training; (2) gerontology centers; (3) research, development, and demonstration projects; and (4) national impact activities. Authorizes appropriations for such programs for fiscal years 1982 through 1984. Sets forth conditions for payments of grants. Title IV: Amendments to Title V - Community Service Employment for Older Americans - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for programs of Community Service Employment for Older Americans. Title V: Amendments to Title VI - Grants for Indian Tribes - Revises provisions relating to grants for Indian tribes. Allows such grants to be made for services for "older Indians" (currently, for Indians aged 60 and older). Eliminates a requirement that a nonprofit private organization selected by the tribal organization conduct (still required) period evaluations of such grants projects. Authorizes appropriations for such grants to Indians programs for fiscal years 1982 through 1984 (excluding the multipurpose senior centers for Indians program). Title VI: Other Provisions - Amends the Rehabilitation, Comprehensive Services, and Developmental Disabilities Amendments of 1978 to repeal provisions relating to the administrative powers of the National Council on the Handicapped. Amends the 1981 White House Conference on Aging Act to provide that amounts appropriated for fiscal year 1981 shall remain available for expenditure in fiscal year 1982. Make technical amendments to the Older Americans Act of 1965.
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1981
Delinquent Payments Act of 1981 - Requires Federal agencies to pay interest on overdue payments to businesses for property or services. Specifies the procedure for computing such interest. Requires an agency to pay any such interest charges out of funds appropriated for its programs. Allows an agency to take advantage of an early payment discount only if payment is made within the time specified by the business. Directs each agency to report to Congress annually on interest payments made during the fiscal year.
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1981
Head Start Act - Restates specified provisions of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 relating to Headstart programs. Retitles such programs "Head Start" programs under a "Head Start Act." Authorizes appropriations to carry out such programs for fiscal years 1982 through 1984. Revises provisions relating to minimum funds required for Indian and migrant Head Start programs. Restates specified provisions of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 relating to Native American programs. Retains as a title for such programs the "Native American Programs Act of 1974." Authorizes appropriations for such programs for fiscal years 1982 and 1983.
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1981
Waste, Fraud, and Abuse Reduction Act of 1981 - Requires that two percent of the funds appropriated for each Executive agency be withheld during each of fiscal years 1982 and 1983. Directs each agency: (1) to transmit to Congress a plan to reduce waste, fraud, and abuse in the administration of agency programs during each such year; and (2) by February 1 of each such year, to report to Congress on its efforts to implement such plan. Authorizes each agency which achieves reductions in waste, fraud, or abuse resulting in savings not exceeding the amount of appropriations withheld, or which determines that no waste, fraud, or abuse exists, to request that the withheld appropriations be released. Directs the Committee on Governmental Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on Government Operations of the House of Representatives to investigate each agency's reduction efforts and to transmit to the Committee on Appropriations of its respective House recommendations on whether all or part of the withheld appropriations should be made available to the agency. Authorizes the Committees on Appropriations to report a joint resolution directing the Secretary of the Treasury to release such funds.
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1981
Compliance Review Reimbursement Act - Entitles State educational institutions to reimbursement for costs incurred in compliance review or similar investigations conducted by the Office for Civil Rights of the Department of Education. Defines "educational institution" to include agencies, boards, or institutions under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, the Vocational Education Act of 1963, and the Higher Education Act of 1965. Excludes reimbursement for costs related to corrective actions. Makes such entitlement available for expenditures from May 1, 1980, to September 30, 1984. Stipulates that payments shall be made from the Office for Civil Rights appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1981
Headstart Act - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) continue the administrative arrangement responsible for meeting the needs of migrant and Indian children; and (2) assure that appropriate funding is provided to meet such needs. Authorizes the Secretary to provide financial assistance to eligible agencies for the planning, conduct, administration, and evaluation of a Headstart program focused primarily on preschool age children from low-income families. Requires that such program provide: (1) comprehensive health, nutritional, educational, social, and other services; and (2) for direct participation, at the local level, of parents in the overall program. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 through 1984. Allots 78 percent of the total appropriation to the States. Distributes one-third of such allotment on the basis of the relative number of children up to age five in families receiving payments under the Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) program, and two- thirds on the basis of the relative number of children up to age five in families below the poverty line. Reserves 20 percent (or 15 percent once appropriations reach a specified level) of the total appropriation for use according to the following order of priorities: (1) giving equal funding consideration to Indian and migrant Headstart programs and to services for handicapped children, but maintaining Indian and migrant programs at specified levels; (2) maintaining payments to each State or territory at specified levels; (3) training and technical assistance activities sufficient for program expansion and improvement; and (4) additional assistance to a State if its allotment for a fiscal year is below a specified level. Reserves two percent of the total appropriation for allotment among specified U.S. territories and possessions and for additional assistance to States below a specified level. Limits financial assistance for a Headstart program under this Act to 80 percent of the approved costs, with such exceptions as the Secretary may determine. Prohibits the Secretary from requiring non-Federal contributions greater than 20 percent of such costs. Requires that approved programs provide services in addition to, and not in substitution for, comparable services previously provided without Federal assistance. Directs the Secretary to establish policies and procedures to assure that for fiscal year 1976 and thereafter at least ten percent of total enrollment opportunities in Headstart programs in each State shall be available for handicapped children and that services to meet their special needs shall be provided. Directs the Secretary to report annually to Congress on the status of handicapped children in the Headstart programs. Directs the Secretary to assure equitable distribution of the benefits of this Act to rural and urban residents. Authorizes the Secretary to designate as a Headstart agency any local public or private nonprofit agency which: (1) has power and authority to carry out certain functions within a community; and (2) can plan, conduct, administer, and evaluate a Headstart program. Directs the Secretary to: (1) give priority to agencies already receiving Headstart program funds or operating Headstart programs; and (2) continue to involve parents and area residents in selection of such agencies. Sets forth the powers and functions of Headstart agencies. Requires that plans setting forth a proposed contract, agreement, grant, or other assistance for a Headstart program be submitted to the appropriate State Governor. Requires that the Secretary reconsider any plan disapproved by a Governor. Permits assistance for such plan if it is found to be fully consistent with the purposes of this Act. Exempts assistance to institutions of higher education from such review by a Governor. Sets forth administrative requirements and standards for each Headstart agency. Directs the Secretary to prescribe eligibility criteria for participation in Headstart programs, including children from families below the poverty line and others who would benefit. Requires, whenever a program is operated in a community with less than 1,000 population and certain conditions exist, that such program establish eligibility criteria. Prohibits the Secretary from charging any fees for participation in Headstart programs. Directs the Secretary to prescribe procedures for appeal, notice, and hearings relating to denials or delays of delegate agency status or for suspensions or terminations of financial assistance. Sets forth provisions for record keeping by, and audits of, Headstart agencies. Authorizes the Secretary to provide technical assistance and training for Headstart programs. Authorizes the Secretary to assist research, demonstration, and pilot projects to further the purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish an overall plan to govern the approval and use of such projects; (2) make a public announcement concerning contracts for, and results of, such projects; (3) assure that all project studies, proposals, and data become U.S. property; and (4) publish summaries of results and submit these to the appropriate Congressional committees. Sets forth provisions for the evaluation of Headstart programs, with the assistance of university faculty in the appropriate State. Directs the Secretary to: (1) publish the results and summaries of evaluative research and to submit these to the appropriate Congressional committees; and (2) assure that products of such evaluation become U.S. property. Provides for annual revision of the poverty line used as a criterion of eligibility for Headstart program participation. Sets forth provisions for comparability of wages for those employed in Headstart programs with those paid for substantially comparable services. Sets forth nondiscrimination provisions. Prohibits employees of agencies assisted under this Act, pursuant to or during performance of services so assisted, from aiding in the conduct of any unlawful demonstration, rioting, or civil disturbance. Sets forth prohibitions against specified political activities involving Headstart programs. Sets forth provisions for advance funding of programs under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1981
Emergency Hardship Assistance Grant Act - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to a State upon application to be used to provide home energy and emergency assistance to low-income individuals. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 through 1985. Sets forth requirements for grant applications. Prohibits the allocation of funds to a State after the first fiscal year in which such State receives funds under this Act unless the State legislature has allocated the expenditure of such funds after holding public hearings on their use and distribution. Requires that payments to a State for any fiscal year be expended in such fiscal year. Authorizes the Secretary to reduce a State's allotment under this Act if such State fails to provide energy and emergency assistance to an Indian tribe eligible for such assistance under this Act. Requires the chief executive officer of a State to report on the intended use of grants received under this Act. Authorizes a State to use such amounts as are necessary to pay administrative costs. 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. Requires a State to report to the Secretary on its activities and audit its expenditures under this Act for each fiscal year. Authorizes the Secretary to audit a State's expenditures as well. Requires a State to repay to the United States any amounts not expended in accordance with this Act, or authorizes the Secretary to offset such amounts against future grants to such State. Directs the Comptroller General to evaluate periodically State expenditures under this Act. Permits a State to choose, for fiscal year 1982 only, between operating programs under the block grant established under this Act and operating programs under the Home Energy Assistance Act of 1980, part A (Aid to Families With Dependent Children) of title IV of the Social Security Act, or the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964. 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 a handicap. Repeals: (1) the Home Energy Assistance Act of 1980; (2) specified provisions of part A (Aid to Families With Dependent Children) of title IV of the Social Security Act which authorize an emergency assistance program for needy families with children; and (3) the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, which authorizes Community Service Administration programs (but does not repeal title VII of such Act, which authorizes a Community Economic Development program). Directs the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to establish the official poverty line.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1981
Native American Programs Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide financial assistance to public and nonprofit private agencies for projects to promote the economic and social self-sufficiency of American Indians, Hawaiian Natives, and Alaskan Natives. Directs the Secretary to consult with other Federal agencies to eliminate duplication or conflict of activities and to incorporate project findings into the programs of such other Federal agencies. Limits Federal assistance to 80 percent of project cost, unless the Secretary determines that more is necessary to further the purposes of this Act. Prohibits the Secretary from requiring more than a 20 percent non-Federal contribution. Requires that such projects be in addition to and not in substitution for comparable activities previously carried out without Federal assistance. Permits the Secretary to waive this requirement in certain circumstances. Provides for technical assistance and training for such projects. Directs the Secretary to establish overall plans and make public announcements concerning research, demonstration, and pilot projects. Requires submission of plans to: (1) the appropriate governing body of an Indian reservation or Alaskan Native village; or (2) State and local officials, when a project is not on or in an Indian reservation or Alaska Native village or Hawaiian homestead. Sets forth provisions for: (1) records and audits; (2) appeals, notice, and hearing; (3) evaluation; and (4) delegation of authority. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 to carry out this Act. Amends the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 to repeal the Native American Programs Act of 1974.
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 · 30 April 1981
Older Americans Act Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to modify specified duties and functions of the Administration on Aging. Permits the Commissioner of the Administration to determine when review of and comment on Federal policies affecting the elderly is necessary. Eliminates the National Information and Resource Clearinghouse for the Aging. Repeals provisions relating to specified studies which have been completed. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 through 1984 for the Federal Council on Aging. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 through 1984 for grants for State and community programs on aging. Consolidates the authorization of such grants for social services and nutrition programs. Eliminates legal services from among the purposes for which such grants may be used. Allows a State's grant allotment to be used for the purchase of commodities from the Department of Agriculture. Revises the formula for such State grant allotments. Specifies that a State agency on aging is only responsible to the extent feasible to review and comment on State plans, budgets, and policies affecting the elderly. Permits a State which had previously functioned as a single planning and service area to designate additional planning and service areas within the State to be administered by area agencies on aging. Revises requirements for area plans to: (1) permit such plans to cover periods of two, three, or four years; and (2) modify review and comment responsibilities of area agencies on aging. Eliminates a requirement that a portion of allotted funds be expended for access, in-home, and legal services. Revises requirements for State plans to: (1) permit such plans to cover periods of two, three, or four years; and (2) eliminate evaluation of legal service needs of the elderly. Specifies that nutrition projects may include either meals in a congregate setting or home-delivered meals or both. Repeals a limitation on the use of nutrition services funds for social services. Eliminates requirements that a State plan: (1) provide for the delivery and coordination of legal services to the elderly; and (2) expend a specified amount to establish and operate a nursing home ombudsman program. Conforms State plan administrative provisions to the consolidation of separate authorizations. Eliminates the requirement that the Secretary of Agriculture maintain an annually programmed level in donating surplus commodities to nutrition services for the elderly grant or contract recipients. Extends through fiscal year 1984 the requirement that the Secretary of Agriculture purchase specified foods for distribution to nutrition services for the elderly. Eliminates the authorization of appropriations for such purchases. Requires that such purchases be made with funds taken out of State grant allotments. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with the Commissioner on Aging, to prescribe terms and conditions of such purchases. Repeals provisions for cash payments in lieu of donated foods. Conforms the social services and congregate and home-delivered nutrition services programs to the consolidation of authorizations. Includes the installation of security devices and structural modifications or alterations of the residences of elderly individuals under the social services grants and the discretionary grants programs. Eliminates the program of grants for training for legal assistance to the elderly. Eliminates a requirement that the Commissioner on Aging conduct a study of the different service needs and costs of rural and urban elderly persons. Directs (currently only authorized) the Commissioner to collect and disseminate research and development information. Eliminates specified types of demonstration projects to which the Commissioner is required to give special consideration. Adds to those projects which must continue to receive such consideration the prevention of unlawful entry into homes owned by the elderly (through security devices or structural modification). States that no funds may be obligated for demonstration projects to provide mental health services to older individuals if funds are appropriated to carry out specified provisions of the Mental Health Systems Act. Directs the Commissioner to report to the Congress at the completion of such demonstration projects. Eliminates the grants and contracts program for special demonstration projects on legal services for older Americans. Eliminates the grants program for utility and home heating costs assistance for the elderly demonstration projects. Eliminates the program of mortgage insurance and interest grants for multipurpose senior centers. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 through 1984 for training, research, and discretionary projects and programs for the elderly. Prohibits use of such funds for any project unless the Commissioner has notified the appropriate State agency on aging of the project. Removes the condition of having poor employment prospects as a requirement for participation in the older American community service employment program. Directs the Secretary of Labor to enter into agreements to provide second career training and placement in private employment for individuals eligible for such program. Revises requirements for distribution of national grants or contracts and for State allotments under such program. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 through 1984 to carry out such program. Requires Indian tribal organizations applying for grants for social and nutritional services for the elderly to inform each State agency on aging of such application. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 through 1984 for such grants to Indian tribes. Repeals specified provisions of the Comprehensive Older Americans Act Amendments of 1978 relating to continuation of assistance to nutrition service projects.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1981
Domestic Volunteer Service Act Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 to eliminate provisions relating to a financial assistance limitation for specified special service-learning programs. Authorizes the Director of the ACTION Agency to make grants and contracts for projects and programs which encourage and enable students in secondary, secondary vocational, and postsecondary schools to participate in service-learning programs on an in-school or out-of-school basis in specified assignments. Redesignates provisions relating to grants and contracts for senior companion services for low-income elderly persons with specified needs as a separate Senior Companions Program. Makes technical and conforming administrative amendments. Eliminates references to Older American Community Service Programs and the Community Services Administration. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 to carry out national volunteer antipoverty programs. Eliminates provisions earmarking portions of such funds for specified programs. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 for National Older American Volunteer programs, including the Foster Grandparent Program, the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, and coordination with other Federal programs. Extends through fiscal year 1983 the authorization of appropriations for administration and coordination of domestic volunteer services programs.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1981
Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide grants to support services and research relating to adolescent pregnancy and parenthood. Includes within such services: (1) pregnancy testing and maternity counseling; (2) adoption counseling; (3) health services including prenatal and pediatric care; (4) education and family planning; and (5) other related health, referral, and educational services. Requires projects to: (1) give priority to unmarried adolescents (17 years old or younger) who are pregnant or who are parents; and (2) use methods to strengthen the capacity of families to deal with adolescent pregnancy or parenthood. Limits the use of funds under this program to: (1) provide services to eligible persons; and (2) coordinate and plan necessary services. Prohibits the use of funds for family planning services (other than counseling and referral) unless not otherwise available. Requires grantees to charge income-based fees for such services. Sets forth grantee priorities. Prohibits grants for more than five years duration. Establishes a decreasing maximum Federal financial participation, which the Secretary may waive. Sets forth application requirements. Requires a grantee to make periodic project reports to the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to coordinate Federal policies and programs relating to the prevention of adolescent pregnancies, including assistance to State and local entities receiving Federal aid. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants and enter into contracts for research projects. Limits such projects to a maximum of five years and an annual amount of $60,000. Requires: (1) the Secretary to establish a panel to review such grant and contract applications; and (2) recipients to transmit project reports to the Secretary. Directs that between one and three percent of appropriated funds under this Act be used for program evaluation. Authorizes specified appropriations for fiscal years 1982-1984. Prohibits funds under this Act from being used for abortion related purposes, except for research concerning the negative consequences of abortion. Repeals title VI (adolescent pregnancy program) of the Health Services and Centers Amendments of 1978.
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 · 27 April 1981
Constitutional Amendment - Proclaims the English language to be the official language of the United States. Prohibits the United States, the States, and any Federal or State court from requiring the use of any other language. Stipulates that this article shall not prohibit educational instruction in a language other than English for the purpose of making students proficient in English.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1981
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Senate and the American people: (1) regret the loss of Japanese life and property in connection with the collision of a U.S. submarine and a Japanese freighter; (2) sympathize with the families of those who died; and (3) assure Japan that the collision will be investigated and explained.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1981
Veterans' Disability Compensation and Survivors' Benefits Act of 1981 - Title I: Veterans' Disability Compensation Benefits - Increases the rates of veterans' compensation for: (1) wartime disability compensation; or (2) additional compensation for dependents; and (3) clothing allowances paid to certain disabled veterans. Title II: Survivors' Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Benefits - Increases the rates of veterans' dependency and indemnity compensation for: (1) a surviving spouse; (2) surviving children; and (3) supplemental children's benefits. Title III: Effective Date - States that the provisions of this Act shall take effect on October 1, 1981.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1981
Extends from December 31, 1981, to September 30, 1982, the authority of the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to contract for hospital care or medical services in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands without reference to patient loads or incidence of provision of medical services for veterans treated by the Veterans' Administration in the contiguous 48 states.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1981
Small Business Innovation Research Act of 1981 - Amends the Small Business Act to direct the Small Business Administration (SBA) to: (1) maintain an information program to provide small businesses an opportunity to participate in Federal small business innovation research (SBIR) programs; (2) coordinate a schedule for release of agency SBIR solicitations and prepare a master release schedule; (3) monitor SBIR programs within Federal agencies; and (4) report annually to the Congressional Small Business Committees on the SBIR programs. Requires each Federal agency with a research and development budget in excess of $100,000,000 in fiscal year 1982 or any subsequent fiscal year to spend a specified percentage of its budget in connection with an SBIR program. Requires each Federal agency with a research and development budget in excess of $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1982 or any subsequent fiscal year to establish specific goals for funding research and development agreements with small businesses. Directs each Federal agency with an SBIR program to report annually to the SBA the number of awards over $10,000 in amount made under the SBIR program and to concerns other than small business concerns. Directs the Administrator of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy, in conjunction with the SBA, to promulgate regulations for the conduct of the SBIR programs. States that this Act does not authorize the appropriation of funds.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1981
Regulatory Reduction and Congressional Control Act of 1981 - Amends the Administrative Procedure Act to require Federal agencies to provide interested persons at least 60 days after publication of the general notice of a proposed rulemaking to participate in the rulemaking. Allows an agency to adopt an emergency rule, temporarily, without regard to specified time constraints. Provides expedited procedures for the adoption of a rule to replace such a temporary emergency rule. Subjects interpretive agency rules and general policy statements which will have general applicability and affect the rights of persons outside the agency to notice and public comment requirements for agency rulemaking. Directs each agency, upon publishing a recommended final rule, to transmit to Congress a copy of the rule with a summary of the problem requiring Government regulation and a statement of the estimated costs imposed by the rule. Prohibits such a rule from becoming effective if one House adopts a resolution disapproving the rule within 60 days of continuous session of Congress and the other House does not disapprove such resolution within 30 days thereafter. Specifies factors to be considered by a Congressional committee when determining whether or not to report such a resolution. Allows an agency to issue a modified rule relating to the same area as a disapproved rule. Authorizes each Congressional committee having legislative jurisdiction over an existing agency rule to review such rule periodically to determine whether: (1) provisions of the rule seriously injure the public interest; or (2) the rule violates or is inconsistent with other rules, existing law, judicial decisions, congressional intent, or its statutory authority. Authorizes such a committee or any Member of Congress to report or introduce a resolution requiring that an agency reconsider and repromulgate an existing rule or else the rule shall lapse within 180 days. Requires any agency repromulgating a rule to hold a hearing for oral presentations.
United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1981
Commends Secret Service Agents Timothy McCarthy and Jerry Parr and Metropolitan Police Officer Thomas Delahanty for their performance in the line of duty with respect to the assassination attempt on the life of the President of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 27 March 1981
Grants the Court of Claims jurisdiction over claims against the United States for losses sustained by producers, processors, manufacturers, distributors, or other persons resulting from the ban on children's sleepwear containing Tris phosphate. Enumerates factors to be considered by the court in determining the validity of claims. States that the amount of losses shall not include lost profits, distress sale proceeds, attorney fees, or interest on losses. Sets forth the measure of losses for the types of claimants.
![Official portrait of Sen. Denton, Jeremiah [R-AL]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/d000259_200.jpg)