United States · United States Congress · 14 April 1997
Indian Child Welfare Act Amendments of 1997 - Amends the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 to provide for retention by an Indian tribe of exclusive jurisdiction over child custody proceedings involving specified Indian children. Revises requirements, with respect to Indian children, regarding: (1) the voluntary termination of parental rights; and (2) the withdrawal of a consent to such voluntary termination or to adoption. Requires a party seeking the voluntary placement of an Indian child or the voluntary termination of parental rights to provide written notice to the Indian child's tribe. Sets forth the requirements for such a written notice. Permits an Indian tribe to intervene only if a child's tribe has filed a written objection, but permits the child's Indian tribe to intervene in any case in which the Indian tribe did not receive a written notice. Provides criminal sanctions for fraudulent representation with respect to any proceeding involving an Indian child.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1997
Senior Citizen Home Equity Protection Act - Amends the National Housing Act with respect to home equity conversion mortgages to: (1) require full disclosure to the mortgagor of all mortgage costs, including estate planning, financial advice, or other related costs; and (2) provide for imposition of restrictions by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to ensure that the mortgagor is not charged for such costs.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1997
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Reorganization Compacts Title II: Amendment to the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act Title III: Reform of the Regulations of the Bureau of Indian Affairs Bureau of Indian Affairs Reorganization Act of 1997 - Title I: Reorganization Compacts - Directs the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) to enter into compacts with the appropriate Indian tribes to reorganize the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) at the area, agency, and central office levels. Authorizes appropriations. Title II: Amendment to the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act - Amends the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act to: (1) direct the Secretary to establish a program of tribal participation in BIA budget requests; and (2) direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a similar program for the Indian Health Service. Authorizes appropriations. Title III: Reform of the Regulations of the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Directs the Secretary to: (1) in consultation with Indian tribes, review the BIA manual, promulgate as proposed regulations those provisions appropriate under the new compacts, and revoke all other provisions of the manual; and (2) establish a related regulatory task force which shall include tribal representatives from each of the 12 BIA areas. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1997
Mammography Quality Standards Reauthorization Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize appropriations to carry out provisions relating to the certification of mammography facilities. Requires that appeals from certification denials follow procedures in effect at that time (currently, in effect on a specified date). Modifies mammogram record retention requirements. Allows inspection of facilities (currently, certified facilities) for compliance with certification requirements and mammography quality standards (currently, compliance with mammography quality standards). Allows inspections to be conducted by a local agency on behalf of the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Empowers the Secretary to require a facility to notify patients who received mammograms if the Secretary determines the quality was so inconsistent with standards as to present a significant risk to the individual or public health. Authorizes civil money penalties for failure to comply. Allows certificate suspension or revocation for a failure to comply with an accreditation body's requests for records or materials. Modifies requirements for certification suspension before holding a hearing.
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1997
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: FHA-Insured Multifamily Housing Mortgage and Housing Assistance Restructuring Title II: Enforcement Provisions Subtitle A: FHA Single Family and Multifamily Housing Subtitle B: FHA Multifamily Multifamily Assisted Housing Reform and Affordability Act of 1997 - Title I: FHA-Insured Multifamily Housing Mortgage and Housing Assistance Restructuring - Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to enter into agreements with participating administrative entities (with preference given to State housing finance agencies) to develop and implement mortgage restructuring and rental assistance plans for FHA-insured multifamily housing mortgages in order to: (1) reduce expiring section 8 contracts costs; (2) address troubled projects; and (3) correct management and ownership deficiencies. Includes two-tiered mortgage restructuring among plan incentives. Terminates program authority as of a specified date. Title II: Enforcement Provisions - Directs the Secretary to issue implementing regulations. Subtitle A: FHA Single Family and Multifamily Housing - Amends the National Housing Act to expand HUD authorities with respect to: (1) lender sanctions; (2) equity skimming; and (3) civil money penalties. Subtitle B: FHA Multifamily - Amends the National Housing Act and the Housing Act of 1937 to expand multifamily housing-related civil money penalties. Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1987 to extend the double damages remedy.
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1997
Sets forth the congressional budget for the Government for FY 1998 through 2002. Lists recommended budgetary levels and amounts with respect to: (1) Federal revenues; (2) new budget authority; (3) budget outlays; (4) deficits; (5) public debt; (6) new direct loan obligations; and (7) new primary loan guarantee commitments. Sets forth the amounts of Social Security revenues and outlays of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund. Lists the appropriate levels of new budget authority, budget outlays, new direct loan obligations, and new primary loan guarantee commitments for each of specified major functional categories.
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1997
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Levels and Amounts Title II: Budgetary Restraints and Rulemaking Sets forth the congressional budget for the Government for FY 1998 through 2002. Title I: Levels and Amounts - Lists recommended budgetary levels and amounts with respect to: (1) Federal revenues; (2) new budget authority; (3) budget outlays; (4) deficits; (5) public debt; (6) new direct loan obligations; and (7) new primary loan guarantee commitments. Sets forth the amounts of Social Security revenues and outlays of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund. Lists the appropriate levels of new budget authority, budget outlays, new direct loan obligations, and new primary loan guarantee commitments for each of specified major functional categories. Specifies deficit reduction goals for Senate committees to meet in recommending budget reconciliation measures to the Committee on the Budget. Title II: Budgetary Restraints and Rulemaking - Sets forth deficit and discretionary spending limits. Sets forth Senate procedures which prohibit revisions of this budget resolution or any budget resolution for FY 1999 through 2002, except under specified circumstances. Mandates certain adjustments to such limits. Directs the Congressional Budget Office to include certain information on deficits and projected deficits in its annual report to congressional budget committees. Directs the Chair of the Senate Committee on the Budget to make adjustments increasing the budget authority and outlay discretionary spending limits according to a specified formula. (Sec. 203) Provides for a tax reserve fund in the Senate. Authorizes the Senate to reduce revenue and spending aggregates and revise allocations for legislation that reduces revenues by providing family tax relief, fuel tax relief, and incentives to stimulate savings, investment, job creation, and economic growth, if such legislation will not increase the deficit for: (1) FY 1998; (2) the period of FY 1998 through 2002; or (3) the period of FY 2003 through 2007. Authorizes the Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Budget, upon the consideration of such legislation, to file with the Senate appropriately revised allocations under specified provisions of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 and revised functional levels and aggregates. Directs the appropriate congressional committee to report such revised allocations.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1997
Amends the Native American Programs Act of 1974 to extend authorizations of appropriations through FY 2000 for: (1) social and economic activities under such Act; (2) environmental improvement grants; and (3) native languages preservation grants. Replaces the provision providing for a specified authorization amount with a provision providing for such sums as may be necessary for language preservation grants.
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1997
Amends the Federal Power Act to prescribe circumstances under which certain hydroelectric projects in Alaska having a power production capacity of 5,000 kilowatts or less shall be subject to the exclusive licensing authority of the State in lieu of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Grants the licensee of a currently FERC-licensed project the discretion to subject such project to the State's authorizing authority. Subjects any State authorization for a project located on Federal lands to the approval of the Secretary with jurisdiction over such lands, and to such terms and conditions as that Secretary may prescribe. Declares that nothing shall preempt the application of Federal environment, natural, or cultural resources protection laws according to their terms. Excludes from FERC voluntary licensing jurisdiction any hydroelectric projects upon fresh waters in Hawaii, unless a license would be required because: (1) the waters are navigable; or (2) the projects affect interstate commerce, are located on Federal lands, or use water from a government dam. Exempts from FERC licensing requirements certain transmission line facilities associated with the El Vado Hydroelectric Project in New Mexico. Extends from two years to ten years from date of license issuance the deadline for commencement of construction of hydroelectric projects.
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1997
American Indian Transportation Improvement Act of 1997 - Amends the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 to: (1) extend and increase through FY 2002 the authorization of appropriations for Indian reservation roads under the Federal lands highway program; (2) permit up to three percent of the funds allocated for Indian reservation roads for a fiscal year to be used for providing mass transportation services to Indian tribes; and (3) exclude funds made available under the Federal lands highway program for a public land highway constructed on an Indian reservation from the apportionment adjustments, hold harmless provisions. (Sec. 5) Revises requirements regarding the scenic byway programs to: (1) require the Secretary of Transportation to provide technical assistance and make grants to Indian tribes for the planning and development of Indian tribe scenic byway programs; (2) provide for a Federal share of 80 percent for the costs of planning and development of Indian tribe scenic byway programs; and (3) extend such programs through FY 2002, requiring that not less than one percent of funds made available for a fiscal year be used to make competitive grants to Indian tribes for the planning and development of Indian tribe scenic byway programs. (Sec. 6) Amends Federal law concerning highways to define the terms: (1) "Indian tribal transportation department"; and (2) "Indian tribe." (Sec. 7) Revises the requirement regarding acceptance by the Secretary of certification relating to certain highway or other transportation construction projects to include Indian tribes. (Sec. 8) Revises the requirement regarding the allocation of apportioned funds for highway safety programs to require that not less than one percent of the ten percent of funds made available to a State under the surface transportation program for transportation enhancement activities for a fiscal year be transferred to, and used by, the Secretary to make competitive grants to Indian tribes for transportation enhancement activities. (Sec. 9) Repeals requirements regarding set asides for Indian reservation bridges under the highway bridge replacement and rehabilitation program. Replaces them with a requirement providing for an amount equal to one percent of the highway bridge replacement and rehabilitation program funds available to be apportioned to States, to be allocated to the Secretary for projects to replace, rehabilitate, paint, or apply calcium magnesium acetate to highway bridges that are part of the Indian reservation road system, with priority given to bridges with the highest level of deficiency. (Sec. 10) Revises the requirement with respect to the set aside for technical assistance centers to: (1) extend and increase through FY 2002 the amount of funding set aside for technical and financial support for such centers; and (2) require that the set aside amount include at least $1 million per fiscal year for each of the Indian technical centers established. (Sec. 11) Revises requirements relating to highway safety programs to: (1) remove reference to "political subdivision of a State" with respect to the application of the requirements on Indian reservations; and (2) require that 95 percent of funds for highway safety programs on Indian reservations be apportioned to Indian tribes (currently such funds are apportioned to the Secretary of the Interior). (Sec. 12) Amends Federal law concerning transportation to revise the requirement relating to the set-asides from the Mass Transit Account of the Highway Trust Fund to require that not less than one percent is available for transportation services to Indian tribes: (1) under an allocation formula, to be established by the Secretary through negotiations with Indian tribes; and (2) with respect to any fiscal year commencing before the formula is established, under an allocation formula established by the Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration.
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1997
Urges the Presidents of the United States and Mexico to expand and strengthen their cooperative relationship in order to make additional progress in halting the production in and transit through Mexico of illegal drugs.
United States · United States Congress · 12 March 1997
New Mexico Statehood and Enabling Act Amendments of 1997 - Amends Federal law to provide for distributions from the permanent trust funds of New Mexico, including all interest, dividends, other income, and appreciation in the market value of assets of the funds to be prudently invested on a total rate of return basis, and to be made as provided in the Constitution of the State of New Mexico. Declares that the Congress consents to the amendments to the Constitution of the State of New Mexico approved by the voters of New Mexico on November 5, 1996.
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1997
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Collection, Storage, and Analysis of DNA Samples Title II: Disclosure of Genetic Information to Third Persons Title III: Authorization by Written Informed Consent Title IV: Discrimination Prohibited Title V: Research Activities Title VI: Miscellaneous Provisions Title VII: Enforcement Title VIII: Effective Date; Applicability; and Relationship to Other Laws Genetic Confidentiality and Nondiscrimination Act of 1997 - Title I: Collection, Storage, and Analysis of DNA Samples - Allows DNA collection only with written authorization and after specified notice. Allows storing or conducting a DNA analysis only in accordance with the authorization and notice. Title II: Disclosure of Genetic Information To Third Persons - Allows genetic information disclosure and redisclosure only with written authorization. Entitles an individual to inspect and receive a copy of his or her genetic information. Provides for amendment of records and for disclosures pursuant to compulsory process. Title III: Authorization by Written Informed Consent - Regulates collection and disclosure authorizations. Title IV: Discrimination Prohibited - Prohibits an employer from requesting, requiring, or using genetic information of an employee or prospective employee to restrict any right or benefit otherwise due or available. Allows an employer to request, require, or use genetic information to: (1) permit a genetically susceptible employee to avoid occupational mutagenic or teratogenic exposure; or (2) determine a genotype that is otherwise directly related to the work and is consistent with business necessity. (Sec. 402) Prohibits health insurers from discriminating on the basis of any molecular genetic information about a healthy individual or a healthy family member, or on the basis of a request for or receipt of genetic services. Prohibits insurers from requiring genetic testing or questioning. Provides for enforcement. Title V: Research Activities - Allows DNA analysis as part of a research project only if an Institutional Review Board, or similar board in the research industry, has made specified determinations. Requires destruction of samples at completion of the project or withdrawal of the subject unless specific authorization is obtained to store after that date. Sets forth rules for pedigree or linkage analysis. Regulates disclosure for research purposes. Title VI: Miscellaneous Provisions - Requires annual notification of employees of a person who collects, stores, or analyzes DNA regarding their responsibilities under this Act and related penalties. Regulates the transfer of samples or information, including regarding discontinuance of services. Title VII: Enforcement - Provides for a private right of action by any individual whose rights under this Act have been violated. Includes in damages: (1) in the case of negligent violations, actual damages, treble damages if there is profit or monetary gain, and costs and attorney's fees; and (2) in the case of willful violations, actual damages, punitive damages, and costs and attorney's fees. Provides, in the case of employment discrimination, for actual damages, treble damages if there is profit or monetary gain, and costs and attorney's fees. Authorizes actions by the Attorney General for injunctive relief and civil penalties. Title VIII: Effective Date; Applicability; and Relationship to Other Laws - Provides for the effective date and applicability of this Act. Prohibits a State from establishing or enforcing any disclosure law or regulation that does not conform to this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1997
Commends the 3,600 students who have been selected to participate in the William Randolph Hearst Foundation Senate Youth Program between 1962 and 1997.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1997
Mandates Information Act of 1997 - Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to require a congressional committee report on any bill or joint resolution that includes any Federal mandate to contain information concerning the impact of such mandate on consumers, workers, and small businesses, including any disproportionate impact in particular regions or industries. Revises provisions concerning legislation subject to a point of order to: (1) define the point of order for a determination by the Director of the Congressional Budget Office that it is not feasible to determine the economic impact of a Federal mandate; and (2) replace certain references to Federal intergovernmental mandates with references to Federal mandates.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1997
Promotion of Commerce On-Line in the Digital Era (Pro-CODE) Act of 1997 - Prohibits the Secretary of Commerce (acting through the National Institute of Standards and Technology or otherwise) from promulgating or enforcing regulations, or otherwise adopting standards or carrying out policies: (1) that result in encryption standards intended for use by businesses or entities other than Federal computer systems; or (2) in a manner inconsistent with this Act, or that have the effect of imposing Government-designed encryption standards on the private sector by restricting the export of computer hardware and computer software with encryption capabilities. (Sec. 5) Prohibits the Federal and State governments from: (1) restricting or regulating the interstate sale by any person of any product designed to provide encryption capabilities; or (2) requiring, as a condition of such a sale, that a decryption key, or access to a decryption key, be given to any other person (including a Federal agency or a private entity certified or approved by the Federal or a State government). Grants the Secretary exclusive authority to control exports of all computer hardware, software, and technology with encryption capabilities, except that which is specifically designed or modified for military use, including command, control, and intelligence applications. Requires only a general license (with limited exceptions) for the export or reexport of any: (1) computer software, including that with encryption capabilities, that is generally available, as is, and designed for installation by the purchaser, or (2) that is available on enactment of this Act or becomes legally available thereafter in the public domain (including on the Internet) or publicly available because it is generally accessible to the public in any form; or (3) computing device or computer hardware solely because it incorporates or employs in any form such computer software (including that with encryption capabilities). Directs the Secretary to authorize the export or reexport of computer software with encryption capabilities under a general license for nonmilitary end-uses in any country to which exports of software or hardware of similar capability are permitted for use by financial institutions not controlled in fact by U.S. persons, unless there is substantial evidence that such software and hardware will be diverted to a military end-use or an end-use supporting international or domestic terrorism, modified for military or terrorist end-use, including acts against the national security, public safety, or the integrity of the transportation, communications, or other essential systems of interstate commerce in the U.S., or reexported without requisite Federal authorization, or intentionally used to evade enforcement of U.S. law or taxation by the U.S. or by any State or local government. Requires that the publisher or manufacturer of computer software or hardware with encryption capabilities shall disclose (for reporting purposes only) within 30 days after export, to the Secretary such information regarding a program's or product's encryption capabilities as would be required for an individual license to export that program or product. Prohibits requiring or permitting the Secretary to impose any conditions or reporting requirements as a precondition to the exportation of any such product or program. (Sec. 6) Establishes an Information Security Board comprised of representatives of agencies within the Federal Government responsible for or involved in the formulation of information security policy, including export controls on products with information security features (including encryption) to: (1) provide a forum to foster communication and coordination between industry and the Federal Government; and (2) foster the aggregation and dissemination of general, nonproprietary, and nonconfidential developments in important information security technologies, including encryption. Requires that the Board shall regularly report such information to appropriate Federal agencies to keep law enforcement and national security agencies abreast of emerging technologies so they are able effectively to execute their responsibilities and cause such information (other than classified, proprietary, or confidential information) to be published from time to time and made available to the public. Directs the Secretary to establish quarterly meetings between the Board and representatives from the private sector with interest or expertise in information security, including cryptographers, engineers, and product managers. Permits the Board to meet at any time with one or more representatives of any person involved in the development, production, or distribution of encryption technology or of computing devices containing encryption technology. Declares that nothing in this Act may be construed to affect any law intended to prevent the: (1) distribution of descramblers and any other equipment for illegal interceptions of cable and satellite television signals; (2) illegal or unauthorized distribution or release of classified, confidential, or proprietary information; or (3) enforcement of Federal or State criminal law.
United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1997
Biomaterials Access Assurance Act of 1997 - Provides that, in any civil action, a biomaterials supplier (one who supplies components or raw materials used to manufacture implants) may raise any defense provided under this Act. Exempts a biomaterials supplier (supplier) from liability for harm to a claimant caused by an implant, with exceptions in the case of a supplier who: (1) is a registered manufacturer of the implant; (2) is a seller of the implant and who held title to the implant at the time of sale; or (3) furnishes raw materials or components that fail to meet applicable contractual requirements or specifications. Provides grounds for liability with respect to each exception. Outlines procedural guidelines for the dismissal of civil actions against suppliers . States that a supplier may be considered a manufacturer of an implant, for purposes of such civil actions, only if the supplier has registered with the Secretary of Health and Human Services and included the implant on a list of devices filed pursuant to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Requires claimant payment of attorney's fees if: (1 ) the claimant named or joined the biomaterials supplier; and (2) the court finds the claim to be without merit and frivolous.
United States · United States Congress · 13 February 1997
Truth in Employment Act of 1997 - Amends the National Labor Relations Act to provide that nothing in specified prohibitions against unfair labor practices shall be construed as requiring an employer to employ any person who seeks or has sought employment with the employer in furtherance of the objectives of an organization other than the employer.
United States · United States Congress · 13 February 1997
Rural States Highway Preservation Act of 1997 - Amends Federal highway provisions to direct the Secretary of Transportation, for FY 1998 and thereafter, to increase and set aside an additional amount of Federal highway funds for allocation (according to a specified formula) to States that: (1) have population densities of fewer than 20 individuals per square mile; and (2) comprise a land area of 10,000 square miles or more.
United States · United States Congress · 12 February 1997
Homeowners Protection Act of 1997 - Amends the Truth in Lending Act to set forth a residential mortgage insurance ratio standard under which a consumer may elect not to carry private mortgage insurance. Mandates that a creditor provide free, specified written disclosures about insurance cancellation procedures for the subject property if a consumer is required to obtain private mortgage insurance as a condition for entering into a residential mortgage transaction.
United States · United States Congress · 12 February 1997
Authorizes the President, on behalf of the Congress, to present a gold medal to Francis Albert "Frank" Sinatra. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to provide for the sale of bronze duplicates of the medal. Authorizes specified charges against the Numismatic Public Enterprise Fund to pay for the cost of the medal and requires the proceeds of duplicate medal sales to be deposited in the Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1997
Biennial Budgeting and Appropriations Act - Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 (CBA) to revise the Federal and congressional budget processes by establishing a two-year budgeting and appropriations cycle and timetable. Defines the budget biennium as the two consecutive fiscal years beginning on October 1 of any odd-numbered year. Sets forth a special timetable for any first session that begins in any year immediately following a leap year and during which the term of a President begins (except one who starts a second successive term). (Sec. 2) Devotes the first session of any Congress to the budget resolution and to appropriations decisions, retaining current deadlines in most cases. Changes certain deadlines to conform to the biennial scheme. Devotes each second session to authorization activity, subject to specified deadlines. (Sec. 3) Revises provisions relating to the reconciliation process. (Sec. 4) Sets forth revised pay-as-you-go provisions for the Senate. (Sec. 5) Conforms provisions governing the President's budget to the biennial framework. (Sec. 6) Requires all Acts making regular appropriations for the support of the Government to be enacted for a biennium and to specify the amount of appropriations provided for each fiscal year in that period. (Sec. 7) Amends CBA to provide that it shall not be in order in the House of Representatives or the Senate to consider: (1) any bill, joint resolution, amendment, motion, or conference report that authorizes appropriations for a period of less than two fiscal years, unless the program, project, or activity for which the funds are to be spent is of less than two years duration; and (2) in any odd-numbered year, any authorization or revenue bill or joint resolution (but not including an appropriations measure or reconciliation bill) until Congress completes action on the biennial budget resolution, all regular biennial appropriations bills, and all reconciliation bills. Provides that, in the Senate, such point of order shall not apply to: (1) any measure that is privileged for consideration pursuant to a rule or statute; or (2) any matter considered in Executive Session. (Sec. 8) Directs the Comptroller General, during the second session of each Congress, to give priority to requests from Congress for audits and evaluations of Government programs and activities. (Sec. 9) Makes appropriations for the second year of a biennium necessary to continue, at the first year rate of operations, projects and activities funded by any regular appropriation Act that provides funding only for the first year of a biennium. (Sec. 10) Changes to a biennial basis specified requirements for certain Government strategic and performance plans, performance reports in budget submissions, and program performance reports. Requires congressional committee reviews of such plans and reports. (Sec. 11) Provides that it shall not be in order in the House of Representatives or the Senate in any odd-numbered year to consider any regular bill providing new budget authority under the jurisdiction of all of the subcommittees of the Committees on Appropriations for a period other than each of the fiscal years of the biennium. (Sec. 12) Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to report to specified congressional committees on the impact and feasibility of changing the definition of a fiscal year and the budget process based on that definition to a two-year fiscal period with a two-year budget process based on the two-year period.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1997
Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1997 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 and the Public Health Service Act to require certain group health plans, and health insurance issuers providing coverage under a group plan, to ensure specified minimum coverage regarding: (1) breast cancer mastectomies, lumpectomies, and lymph node dissections; (2) post-mastectomy breast reconstruction on both breasts; and (3) secondary consultations by specialists. Prohibits: (1) changing coverage terms and conditions based on a participant's or beneficiary's decision to request less than the minimum coverage; and (2) certain penalties or incentives to providers or specialists. Amends: (1) the Public Health Service Act to apply the same requirements to health insurance issuers in the individual market; and (2) the Internal Revenue Code to apply those requirements to group health plans.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1997
National Cave and Karst Research Institute Act of 1997 - Requires the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Director of the National Park Service, to establish the National Cave and Karst Research Institute in the vicinity and outside the boundaries of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico. Limits Federal funding to matching funds. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1997
National Drought Policy Act of 1997 - Directs the President to appoint an advisory commission to provide recommendations on a national drought policy. Requires the commission to report its recommendations to the President and specified congressional committees.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1997
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Juvenile Justice Reform Title II: Juvenile Gangs Title III: Juvenile Crime Control and Accountability Violent and Repeat Juvenile Offender Act of 1997 - Title I: Juvenile Justice Reform - Repeals code provisions regarding surrender of juveniles to State authorities by Federal authorities. (Sec. 102) Requires that a juvenile age 14 or older who is alleged to have committed an act that, if committed by an adult, would be a criminal offense, be tried as an adult at the discretion of the U.S. Attorney in the appropriate jurisdiction upon a finding, which shall not be subject to court review, that there is a substantial Federal interest in the case or the offense to warrant the exercise of Federal jurisdiction, if the juvenile is charged with a Federal offense that is a crime of violence or that involves a controlled substance for which the penalty is at least five years' imprisonment. Permits the U.S. Attorney, upon declining prosecution of the charged person as a juvenile, to refer the matter to the appropriate legal authorities of the State or Indian tribe. Directs that offenses tried in U.S. district court under this Act be open to the public, with exceptions (but makes the defendant's status as a juvenile, absent other factors, insufficient to close the proceeding). Grants the U.S. Attorney, in making determinations concerning juvenile prosecution, complete access to prior Federal juvenile records and, to the extent permitted by State law, prior State juvenile records. (Sec. 103) Lowers the minimum age at which a defendant may be sentenced to death from age 18 to 16. (Sec. 106) Subjects a juvenile tried as an adult to code provisions regarding detention, speedy trial, and restitution applicable to adults. Specifies that no juvenile sentenced to a term of imprisonment shall be released from custody simply because the juvenile reaches age 18. (Sec. 109) Authorizes the release of juvenile records to meet inquiries from any school or other educational institution to ensure public safety and security. (Sec. 110) Requires the Director of the Bureau of Prisons to ensure that juveniles who are alleged or determined to be delinquent are not confined in any institution in which the juvenile has regular sustained physical contact with adult persons who are detained or confined. (Sec. 111) Applies to juvenile defendants tried as adults provisions directing the Commission, under specified circumstances, to assure that the Federal sentencing guidelines specify a sentence to a term of imprisonment at or near the maximum term authorized. Title II: Juvenile Gangs - Federal Gang Violence Act - Directs the Commission to amend the sentencing guidelines to provide an appropriate enhancement, increasing the offense level by not less than six levels, for any offense committed in connection with, or in furtherance of, the activities of a criminal street gang where the defendant was a member of such gang at the time of the offense. (Sec. 203) Amends code provisions regarding criminal street gangs to: (1) delete the definition of "conviction"; (2) redefine "criminal street gang" to cover a group whose members have engaged during the previous five-year period in a pattern of criminal gang activity; and (3) define "pattern of criminal gang activity" to mean the commission of two or more predicate gang crimes in connection with the activities of a criminal street gang, on separate occasions, at least one of which crimes was committed after the date of this title's enactment and the first of which was committed not more than five years before the commission of another predicate gang crime. Defines "predicate gang crime" as an offense, including an act of juvenile delinquency that, if committed by an adult, would be: (1) a Federal offense that is a crime of violence, that involves a controlled substance for which the penalty is at least five years' imprisonment, or that is a violation of other specified prohibitions under the code or under the Immigration and Nationality Act; (2) a State offense involving conduct that would constitute such an offense if Federal jurisdiction existed or had been exercised; or (3) a conspiracy, attempt, or solicitation to commit such offenses. Sets penalties for engaging in a pattern of criminal gang activity. (Sec. 204) Amends the Travel Act to increase: (1) penalties for violations; and (2) the scope of unlawful activities under such Act. (Sec. 205) Prohibits and sets penalties for soliciting or recruiting persons to participate in criminal street gang activity. (Sec. 206) Makes: (1) crimes involving the recruitment of persons to participate in criminal street gangs, and acts or conspiracies to violate firearms laws, predicate offenses under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act; and (2) serious juvenile drug offenses predicate offenses under the Armed Career Criminal Act. Increases penalties for firearms prohibitions, including by setting a three-year minimum term of imprisonment for transferring firearms to minors for use in crime. (Sec. 208) Directs the Commission to amend the sentencing guidelines to provide an appropriate sentencing enhancement, increasing the offense level not less than two levels, for any crime in which the defendant used body armor. (Sec. 209) Authorizes appropriations to hire Assistant U.S. Attorneys and attorneys in criminal division of the Department of Justice to prosecute juvenile criminal street gangs. Title III: Juvenile Crime Control and Accountability - Amends the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 (JJDPA) to direct the Administrator of the Office of Juvenile Crime Control and Accountability (replacing the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention) to develop objectives, priorities, and short- and long-term plans, and implement overall policy and a strategy to carry out such plan, for all Federal juvenile crime control and juvenile offender accountability programs and activities relating to improving juvenile crime control and enhancing accountability by offenders within the juvenile justice system. Sets forth provisions regarding plan contents, annual reviews of plans, duties of the Administrator, budget proposal development and submission, reporting, reprogramming, and recordkeeping requirements, utilization of information, services, and facilities of other agencies, coordination of functions, and annual juvenile delinquency development statements. Directs the Administrator to make grants to States to assist them in planning, establishing, operating, coordinating, and evaluating: (1) projects for the development of more effective investigation, prosecution, and punishment of crimes or acts of delinquency committed by juveniles; (2) programs to improve the administration of justice for and ensure accountability by juvenile offenders; and (3) programs to reduce the risk factors associated with juvenile crime or delinquency. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) use of grant funds, eligibility requirements, distribution of sums by State offices to eligible applicants, applications to State offices, funding period, grant renewal, and special grants; and (2) allocation of grant amounts. Prohibits reallocation of sums due to the ineligibility or nonparticipation of any State. Limits the use of grant funds, including a prohibition against the use of such funds for: (1) biomedical or behavior control experimentation on individuals or research involving such experimentation; (2) construction, with exceptions; (3) job training; (4) specified lobbying activities; (5) and specified legal actions. Prohibits the Federal Government and States receiving funds from discriminating against religious organizations under specified circumstances. Sets penalties for violating prohibitions under this title. Authorizes appropriations. Allocates funds. Requires States, to receive formula grants, to submit plans which meet specified requirements, such as designation of a State agency as the sole agency for supervising the preparation and administration of the plan, and providing for an analysis of juvenile crime problems and juvenile justice and delinquency prevention needs within the relevant jurisdiction. Sets forth provisions regarding approval of State plans by the State agency and by the Administrator, and reduction of allocations if a State fails to comply with requirements of this title. (Sec. 303) Amends the JJDPA to: (1) reauthorize appropriations for runaway and homeless youth and missing children programs; and (2) repeal provisions regarding incentive grants for local delinquency prevention programs. (Sec. 307) Repeals: (1) specified provisions of titles III (Crime Prevention), V (Drug Courts), and XXVII (Presidential Summit on Violence and National Commission on Crime Prevention and Control) of Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994; (2) the Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1994; (3) the School Dropout Assistance Act; (4) specified provisions of the Public Health Service Act providing for grants to public and nonprofit private entities for projects to demonstrate effective models for the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of drug abuse and alcohol abuse among high risk youth; (5) specified programs under the Human Services Reauthorization Act and the Community Services Block Grants Act; and (6) specified provisions of Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988 concerning the drug abuse education and prevention program relating to youth gangs and the program for runaway and homeless youth. (Sec. 308) Requires each State to reserve not more than 30 (currently, 15) percent of the amount of funds allocated in a fiscal year for counties and units of local government to construct, develop, expand, modify, or improve jails and other correctional facilities. (Sec. 309) Requires that a surcharge of 40 percent of the principal amount of a civil monetary penalty be added to each monetary penalty assessed by the United States or any agency thereof at the time the penalty is assessed, except for penalties assessed under the Internal Revenue Code, to be used for Federal programs to combat youth violence.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1997
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Brownfields Revitalization Title II: State Role Title III: Community Participation Title IV: Selection of Remedial Actions Title V: Liability Title VI: Federal Facilities Title VII: Natural Resource Damages Title VIII: Miscellaneous Title IX: Funding Subtitle A (sic): General Provisions Superfund Cleanup Acceleration Act of 1997 - Title I: Brownfields Revitalization - Amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish programs to provide grants to eligible entities (including local government units, redevelopment agencies, and Indian tribes) for site characterization and assessment of, and capitalization of loan funds for response actions at, brownfield facilities. Defines a "brownfield facility," with exceptions, as a parcel of land that contains an abandoned, idled, or underused commercial or industrial facility, the expansion or redevelopment of which is complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance. Makes amounts in the Hazardous Substance Superfund (the Fund) available to carry out the grant programs. (Sec. 102) Adds CERCLA provisions requiring the Administrator to provide technical and other assistance to States to establish and expand qualifying State voluntary response programs, comprised of elements including public participation opportunities, oversight and enforcement authorities, and certification mechanisms. (Sec. 103) Restricts authority to take enforcement actions under CERCLA in cases of hazardous substance releases subject to a State remedial action plan. (Sec. 104) Adds CERCLA provisions governing owner-operator status of persons owning or operating property contiguous to a release site. (Sec. 105) Absolves from liability for response actions bona fide prospective purchasers to the extent liability at a facility for a release or threat thereof is based solely on ownership or operation of a facility. Gives a lien upon a facility to the United States for unrecovered response costs in any case in which there are such unrecovered costs for which the owner is not liable by reason of this Act and the facility's fair market value has increased above that which existed 180 days before the action was taken. (Sec. 106) Deems a person, with respect to defenses to liability of an owner of after-acquired property, to have undertaken appropriate inquiry into the property's previous ownership and uses if the person establishes that inquiries were undertaken in accordance with specified requirements (compliance with an American Society for Testing and Materials standard or with standards issued by the Administrator). Deems the appropriate inquiry requirements to be satisfied by a site inspection and title search that reveal no basis for further investigation in the case of property for residential or similar use purchased by a nongovernmental or noncommercial entity. Lists factors for consideration in issuance of interim standards by the Administrator. Title II: State Role - Adds CERCLA provisions requiring the Administrator, upon application by a State, to delegate authority to perform functions in the following categories with respect to one or more non-Federal National Priorities List (NPL) facilities in the State: (1) technical investigations, evaluations, and risk analyses; (2) alternatives development and remedy selection; (3) remedial design; (4) remedial action and operation and maintenance; and (5) information collection and liability allocation. Prescribes application and performance procedures. Provides for the removal of delegated facilities from the NPL and recovery and deposit of response costs. Allows withdrawal of delegated authority. Directs the Administrator to provide grants to States to carry out delegated functions. Title III: Community Participation - Directs the Administrator to establish Community Response Organizations to solicit views of, and communicate on behalf of, the community on issues affecting remedial action plans. Authorizes technical assistance grants to citizen groups of two or more individuals who may be affected by the release or threatened release of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant at a facility on the State Registry or the NPL. Title IV: Selection of Remedial Actions - Revises remedial action selection and implementation procedures to require the Administrator to select a cost-effective action that complies with applicable Federal and State standards and that achieves the goals of protecting human health and the environment if: (1) with respect to human health, considering expected exposures associated with actual or future use of the land and water resources, and on the basis of a facility-specific risk evaluation (described in this Act), the action achieves a specified residual health risk of hazardous substance exposure; (2) with respect to the environment, the action protects the sustainability of ecosystems and does not pose a greater threat than a release; and (3) the action achieves certain groundwater protection standards. Permits waiver of compliance with Federal or State standards for reasons including improper identification of standards, technical impracticability, and immediacy of other threats. Permits waiver of prescribed remedy selection criteria if the achievement of the human health and environmental protection goals is technically impracticable. Prescribes groundwater protection criteria applicable to cost effective remedial action plans, considering actual or future use of the resource and attenuation or biodegradation that would otherwise occur. (Sec. 403) Adds provisions regarding the use and requirements of facility-specific risk evaluations. Requires the Administrator to issue regulations that: (1) promote a realistic characterization of risk that neither minimizes nor exaggerates the risks and potential risks posed by a facility or a proposed remedial action; and (2) establish presumptive remedial actions for commonly encountered types of facilities with reasonably well understood contamination and exposure problems. (Sec. 404) Establishes procedures, in lieu of those under any other law, for conducting remedial investigations, feasibility studies, records of decisions, remedial designs, and remedial actions. (Sec. 405) Prescribes procedures and time frames for final EPA notice of completion of remedial action and de-listing of a facility. Provides for release from further liability for facilities available for unrestricted use. Requires five-year reviews by EPA of facilities not available for unrestricted use. (Sec. 406) Sets forth transition rules applicable to facilities involved in remedy selection on the date of enactment of this Act. (Sec. 407) Revises the National Contingency Plan to prohibit the Administrator, when listing a site on the NPL, from including property at which no release has occurred but to which a contaminant had migrated in groundwater. States exceptions. Title V: Liability - Creates exceptions and limitations to liability for response costs at NPL-listed facilities for: (1) arrangements for disposal or treatment of municipal solid waste or sewage sludge; (2) certain de minimis contributors; (3) small businesses; and (4) codisposal landfills (certain municipal solid waste or sewage sludge landfills that may have received hazardous waste and that contain in substantial proportion municipal solid waste or sewage sludge transported from outside the facility). (Sec. 502) Permits contribution from the Fund of response costs to persons who are subject to abatement orders or have entered into settlement decrees but are not liable for such costs by reason of an exception or limitation. (Sec. 503) Adds provisions to effect the allocation of liability for response costs at multiparty facilities. Differentiates mandatory, requested, and permissive allocations. Prescribes allocation procedures, including effect on litigation and enforcement, time frames, consideration of equitable factors, orphan shares, and information gathering. (Sec. 504) Excludes response action contractors from the definition of "owner or operator." Revises the national uniform negligence standards. Revises procedures governing EPA decisions to indemnify response action contractors. Limits actions against response action contractors. (Sec. 505) Requires nonconfidential CERCLA records and reports to be released within 14 days after the information is obtained. (Current law states no time frame for public disclosure.) Requires abatement orders and settlement agreement notices to contain information concerning the evidence of the presence of each element of liability for response costs. (Sec. 506) Absolves persons who have reached a settlement with the United States or a State from liability for claims for cost recovery (in addition to contribution, as under current law). (Sec. 507) Adds provisions to include tax-exempt religious, charitable, scientific, and educational organizations as owner-operators and limits the liability of such organizations with respect to facilities received as charitable gifts. (Sec. 508) Revises liability for acts of third parties in contractual arrangements for rail transportation. (Sec. 509) Adds provisions limiting the liability of railroad owners or operators of spur track. (Sec. 510) Adds provisions limiting the liability of recyclers. Title VI: Federal Facilities - Revises provisions governing the transfer of CERCLA authorities vested in the Administrator to allow States to apply to exercise such authorities at any NPL-listed Federal facility located in the State. Prescribes procedures governing such transfers. (Sec. 602) Absolves U.S. officers, employees, or agents for failure to comply with a requirement to take a response action at a Federal facility under CERCLA, the Solid Waste Disposal Act, or any other Federal or State law unless: (1) such person has not fully performed any direct or delegated responsibility to ensure inclusion in the President's budget request of sufficient response action funds; or (2) appropriated funds were available for such purpose. (Sec. 603) Allows the President to designate NPL-listed or -proposed Federal facilities to facilitate the development of innovative technologies for remedial action. Requires a report to the Congress. Title VII: Natural Resource Damages - Adds requirements that sums recovered by an Indian tribe for natural resources damages be used only for restoration, replacement, or acquisition of the equivalent natural resources and that all such replacements (whether by the United States, a State, or a tribe) meet certain technological feasibility and reasonable cost standards. Imposes restrictions on the measure of damages to limit liability, including one for reasonable costs. (Sec. 702) Eliminates the damage assessment rebuttable presumption and prescribes revised procedures for natural resource injury and restoration assessment. Revises procedures for the issuance, and the required contents, of regulations regarding damage assessments. (Sec. 703) Requires, when both response actions and restoration measures are implemented at the same facility, that they be consistent with each other and carried out in a coordinated manner. Requires the Administrator, when evaluating and selecting remedial actions, to consider potential natural resources injuries resulting from the actions. (Sec. 704) Allows a court, in resolving contribution claims, to allocate natural resource damages (in addition to response costs, as under current law) among liable parties. Title VIII: Miscellaneous - Requires the National Contingency Plan to include procedures for conducting response actions which use a results-oriented approach and which meet certain other timeliness and cost-effectiveness criteria. Requires the Administrator to amend the National Hazardous Substance Response Plan to include these procedures. (Sec. 802) Limits new NPL listings according to a specified schedule, allowing no more than ten annual additions of vessels and facilities after the year 2000. Requires prioritization of, and State concurrence in, additions. (Sec. 803) Amends the criteria for continuance of Fund obligations over a specified amount for response actions to: (1) state that remedial actions are those selected or anticipated at the time of a removal action at a facility; (2) increase the cut-off amount from $2 million to $4 million; and (3) increase the cut-off time period from 12 months to two years. Title IX: Funding - Subtitle A: General Provisions (sic) - Authorizes appropriations from the Fund of $8.5 billion for FY 1998 through 2002. (Sec. 902) Allows payment of orphan shares as a use of the Fund. (Sec. 903) Authorizes funds for Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry activities for FY 1998 through 2002. (Sec. 904) Sets the following annual limitations on amounts available for FY 1998 through 2002: (1) $30 million for alternative or innovative technologies research, development, and demonstration programs; (2) $37 million, increasing $2 million per year through FY 2000, and $43 million for each of FY 2001 and 2002, for hazardous substance research, demonstration, and training; and (3) $5 million for university research centers. (Sec. 905) Authorizes appropriations to the Fund through FY 2002. (Sec. 906) Sets limits on funding of community response organizations. Specifies that collected response cost recoveries will be credited to the Fund as offsetting collections. (Sec. 907) Allows use of the Fund to reimburse potentially responsible parties following the results of an audit showing costs are unallowable or should be adjusted.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1997
Family Friendly Workplace Act - Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to provide for: (1) time-and-a-half compensatory time off; (2) biweekly work programs (allowing more than 40 hours of work in one week and correspondingly less in the other); and (3) flexible credit hour programs (thus providing private sector employees opportunities under such programs similar to those of Federal employees). Amends the exemption from minimum wage and maximum hour requirements for certain executive, administrative, and professional employees and outside salesmen. Prohibits from consideration in determining whether an employee is exempt: (1) the fact that the employee is subject to deductions in compensation for absences from employment of less than a full workday or less than a full pay period; or (2) the payment of overtime compensation or other additions to the compensation of an employee employed on a salary based on hours worked. Allows consideration, in such a determination, of an actual reduction in compensation.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1997
Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 1997 - Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit performing a partial birth abortion in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce, unless it is necessary to save the life of the mother and no other medical procedure would suffice. Defines "partial-birth abortion" as an abortion in which the person performing the procedure partially vaginally delivers a living fetus before killing the infant and completing the delivery. Prescribes penalties. Authorizes the father and, if the mother is under 18 years of age, the maternal grandparents of the fetus to obtain specified relief in a civil action, even if the mother consented to the abortion, unless the pregnancy resulted from the plaintiff's criminal conduct or the plaintiff consented to the abortion. Prohibits the prosecution of a woman upon whom a partial-birth abortion is performed for conspiracy to violate this Act or under provisions regarding punishment as a principal or an accessory or for concealment of a felony.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1997
Fairness in Musical Licensing Act of 1997 - Revises Federal copyright law to provide that communication by electronic device of a transmission embodying a performance or display of a nondramatic musical work by the reception of a broadcast, cable, satellite, or other transmission shall not be a copyright infringement unless an admission fee is charged to see or hear the transmission or the transmission is not properly licensed. Applies the infringement exemption for the performance of a nondramatic musical work at an annual agricultural or horticultural fair or exhibition to such performance at agricultural or horticultural fairs, exhibitions, conventions, meetings, and events. Excludes as a copyright infringement the performance of a nondramatic musical work: (1) by a commercial establishment at no charge when a purpose of the performance is to promote audio, video, or other devices utilized in such performance; and (2) at an organized children's camp if the children in attendance sing, dance, or participate in all or a portion of such work, or when the performance is of an instructional nature. (Sec. 3) Specifies that if a general music user and a performing rights society are unable to agree on the appropriate fee to be paid for the user's past or future performance of musical works in the society's repertoire, the user shall be entitled to binding arbitration of such disagreement pursuant to the rules of the American Arbitration Association in lieu of any other dispute-resolution mechanism established by any judgment or decree governing the operation of such society. Requires the arbitrator to determine a fair and reasonable fee for the user's past and future performance of works in such society's repertoire and to impose a penalty for infringement if the user's past performance infringed the copyright of such works. Makes an arbitrator's determination binding on both parties. Sets forth provisions regarding civil actions for infringement that may be submitted to arbitration if the license fee for a performance is contested. (Sec. 4) Requires a performing rights society, at the request of any radio broadcaster, to offer the broadcaster a per programming period license to perform nondramatic musical works in its repertoire. Directs that such license be offered on terms and conditions that provide an economically and administratively viable alternative to the society's blanket license for all such broadcasters. Sets forth provisions regarding prices of such licenses. Authorizes radio broadcasters entitled to a per programming period license to bring actions to require compliance with such requirements. (Sec. 5) Directs each performing rights society to make available free online computer access to copyright and licensing information for each work in its repertoire as well as a semiannual printed directory of each title in its repertoire. Requires such society, upon request, to provide to any person who may perform musical works in its repertoire copies of documentation establishing the society's right to license the public performance of such works. Bars a society from instituting or being a party to any action alleging infringement in, or charging a fee under any per programming period license for, any work in the repertoire that is not identified or documented as described above, with exceptions. (Sec. 6) Requires the Attorney General to report annually to the Congress on the activities of the Department of Justice relating to the continuing supervision and enforcement of specified consent decrees of the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers and Broadcast Music, Inc. (Sec. 7) Sets forth conditions under which landlords, organizers of conventions, or others making space available to another party are exempt from liability under any theory of vicarious or contributory infringement with respect to an infringing public performance of a copyrighted work by a tenant, lessee, or other user of such space.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1997
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Child Tax Credit Title II: Capital Gains Reform Subtitle A: Taxpayers Other Than Corporations Subtitle B: Corporate Capital Gains Subtitle C: Capital Loss Deduction Allowed with Respect to Sale or Exchange of Principal Residence Title III: Estate and Gift Provisions Title IV: Savings Incentives American Family Tax Relief Act - Title I: Child Tax Credit - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a credit of $500 per child. Reduces such credit incrementally as income increases above threshold amounts. Title II: Capital Gains Reform - Subtitle A: Taxpayers Other Than Corporations - Provides for taxpayers, other than corporations, a deduction of 50 percent of net capital gain. Provides that, in the case of an estate or trust, the deduction shall be computed by excluding the portion of the gains from sales or exchanges of certain capital assets includible in gross income by the income beneficiaries as gain derived from the sale of capital assets. Excludes collectibles gain from the computation of net capital gain. Sets forth a formula for determining the maximum rate on nondeductible capital gain. Allows the deduction in computing adjusted gross income. (Sec. 202) Provides that for taxpayers, other than corporations, the indexed basis of an asset shall be substituted for its adjusted basis in determining gain on the disposition of an indexed asset, if held more than three years. Defines an indexed asset as: (1) common stock in a C corporation; and (2) tangible property which is a capital asset used in a trade or business. Defines the indexed basis as: (1) the adjusted basis of the asset, increased by; (2) the applicable inflation adjustment. Defines applicable inflation adjustment. Suspends treatment of an asset as an indexed asset during any period in which a taxpayer enters into an agreement which substantially reduces the risk of loss of holding the asset. Provides for the treatment of short sales. Permits such substitution, subject to stated exceptions, to any qualified investment entity. Permits stock in a regulated investment company or a real estate investment trust to be an indexed asset as specified. Provides for pass-through in the case of: (1) a partnership to partners; (2) an S corporation to shareholders; and (3) a common trust fund to participants. Makes the provisions of this section inapplicable to a disposition of property between related persons, except to the extent that the basis of such property in the hands of the transferee is a substituted basis. Sets forth rules concerning: (1) improvements; (2) assets which are not indexed assets throughout the holding period; (3) treatment of certain dispositions; (4) acquisition date where there has been a prior application of this section; and (5) collapsible corporations. Applies the provisions of this section to the disposition of property the holding period of which began after December 31, 1996. (Sec. 203) Repeals the minimum tax preference applicable to the sale of certain small business stock. Doubles the amount of assets a qualified small business may have and remain eligible for reduced rates. Repeals the per-issuer limitation on a taxpayer's eligible gain. Requires that certain working capital of a small business must be expended in five (currently, two) years to be treated as actively in business. Subtitle B: Corporate Capital Gains - Provides for a reduction in the alternative capital gains tax for corporations. Subtitle C: Capital Loss Deduction Allowed With Respect to Sale or Exchange of Principal Residence - Treats as a deductible capital loss a loss from the sale or exchange of a principal residence. Title III: Estate and Gift Provisions - Increases, over an eight year period, the unified estate and gift tax credit. (Sec. 302) Establishes estate tax rules for qualified family-owned business interests, if such interests exceed 50 percent of the adjusted gross estate. Excludes, subject to specified requirements, from the value of such an estate the lesser of: (1) the adjusted value of the qualified family-owned business interests of the decedent otherwise includible in the estate, or; (2) the sum of $1.5 million, plus 50 percent of the excess of the adjusted value of such interests over $1.5 million. Subjects such exclusion to recapture, if specified events occur. (Sec. 303) Extends from 10 to 20 years the amount of time permitted to an estate for making installment payments of the estate tax in an estate consisting largely of interest in a closely held business. Revises provisions concerning the payment of interest on such tax to make a certain portion interest-free. Title IV: Savings Incentives - Increases incrementally, through the year 2000, the adjusted gross income phaseout limits for IRA (individual retirement account) contributions. Repeals, after the year 2000, such limits. Permits a spouse who is not an active IRA plan participant to make a deductible IRA contribution of up to $2,000 without regard to such limits. (Sec. 403) Permits an individual to create an IRA Plus Account into which limited nondeductible contributions can be made. Excludes a qualified distribution from gross income. Defines a qualified distribution as any distribution made: (1) after age 59 and one-half; (2) to a beneficiary after the death of the owner of the account; (3) because of disability; or (4) as a qualified special purpose distribution (medical expenses, long-term unemployment, etc.). Prohibits distributions made within five years of establishing (or, of rolling over into) such an account as being treated as qualified distributions. (Sec. 404) Permits tax-free withdrawals from an individual retirement account for: (1) business start-up costs; (2) long-term (more than 12 weeks) unemployment; or (3) higher education expenses of the taxpayer or the taxpayer's spouse or child.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1997
Paycheck Protection Act - Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act to make it unlawful, except with the separate, prior, written, voluntary authorization of each individual, for: (1) national banks or corporations to collect or assess its stockholders or employees any dues, initiation fee, or other payment as a condition of employment if any part of such dues, fee, or payment will be used for political activities in which the national bank or corporation is engaged; and (2) labor organizations to collect from or assess its members or nonmembers any dues, fee, or other payment if any part of such dues, fee, or payment will be used for political activities. States that an authorization shall remain in effect until revoked and may be revoked at any time.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1997
National Missile Defense Act of 1997 - Directs the Secretary of Defense to develop for deployment a National Missile Defense (NMD) system which shall achieve operational capability by the end of 2003. Includes as system elements: (1) an interceptor system that optimizes defensive coverage of the United States; (2) fixed ground-based radar; (3) space-based sensors; and (4) battle management, command, control, and communications. Directs the Secretary to: (1) conduct an integrated systems test by the end of FY 1999; (2) use streamlined acquisition procedures; (3) develop a follow-on program that leverages off of, and that could augment, the NMD system to provide for a layered defense; and (4) report to the Congress on the plan for carrying out this Act, the appropriations required for FY 1998 through 2003, and the point at which activity would conflict with terms of the Anti-Ballistic Missile (ABM) Treaty. Urges the President, if necessary, to pursue high-level discussions with the Russian Federation to achieve an agreement to amend the ABM Treaty to allow deployment of the NMD system. Requires the President to present any such agreement to the Senate for its advice and consent. Requires the President and the Congress, if such an agreement is not achieved within one year, to consider the option of withdrawing the United States from the ABM Treaty.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1997
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Safe and Drug-Free Schools Initiative Subtitle A: Student Opportunity and Safety Subtitle B: Common Sense School Safety Title II: Amendments to the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 Title III: Tax Incentives for Higher Education Title IV: Funding for Part B of the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act Title V: Adult Education and Family Literacy Subtitle A: Adult Education Act Subtitle B: Demonstration Programs and Projects to Promote Literacy Subtitle C: National Commission on Literacy Safe and Affordable Schools Act of 1997 - Title I: Safe and Drug-Free Schools Initiative - Subtitle A: Student Opportunity and Safety - Student Opportunity and Safety Act - Authorizes appropriations for the grants program established under this subtitle and for program evaluation. (Sec. 115) Directs the Secretary of Education to make grants to eligible entities for 20 to 30 demonstration projects under which low-income parents receive education certificates for the costs of enrolling their eligible children in a choice school. Gives priority to eligible entities that: (1) are conducting a school choice program, involving public or private schools, on the date of enactment of this Act; and (2) operate a school choice program, involving public and private schools, that is authorized by Federal law. Requires 90 percent of such grants (85 percent the first year) to be used for providing education certificates to low-income parents to pay tuition, fees, allowable transportation costs, and costs of certain special programs, for their eligible children to attend a choice school. Allows the remainder to be used for administration of the demonstration project. Declares that such education certificates shall be considered as: (1) aid to parents, not to the choice school. States that such education certificates shall not be considered income to an eligible child or its parent for Federal, State, or local tax purposes, or for determining eligibility for any other Federal program. Subtitle B: Common Sense School Safety - Common Sense School Safety Act - Chapter I: Pupil Safety and Family Choice - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to allow students, who are program-eligible or who attend a program-eligible school, to switch schools if they have been victims of violent crimes in or on the grounds of their schools. Authorizes the local educational agency (LEA) to use program funds to pay certain supplementary costs for such students to attend any other public or private elementary school or secondary school, including a sectarian school, in that State, that is selected by the student's parent. (Sec. 151) Authorizes States, State educational agencies (SEAs), or LEAs to transfer any non-Federal public funds associated with the education of a student who is a victim of a violent criminal offense while in or on the grounds of a public elementary school or secondary school served by an LEA to another LEA or to a private elementary school or secondary school, including a sectarian school. Chapter II: Victim Assistance Programs - Amends the Victims of Crime Act of 1984 to authorize: (1) use of victim compensation program grant funds for compensation to students who are victims of school violence; and (2) grants for a demonstration project or for training and technical assistance services to a program that assists LEA programs designed to protect victims of and witnesses to incidents of school violence. Chapter III: Innovative Programs to Improve Unsafe Schools - Authorizes appropriations for the grants program established under this chapter. (Sec. 175) Authorizes the Secretary to award grants to States, SEAs, and LEAs for innovative programs to improve unsafe elementary schools or secondary schools. Gives priority to programs that: (1) provide parent and teacher notification of crimes or drug activity occurring at school; (2) provide for the suspension, delay, or restriction of driving privileges of persons under age 18 who have a conviction, an adjudication in a juvenile proceeding, or a finding in a school disciplinary proceeding, involving illegal drugs; (3) link local educational agencies with community-based mentoring programs; (4) include cooperative efforts between the Secretary and the Secretary of Defense to share the training and salary costs of former members of the Armed Forces who are hired as teachers and assigned to teach in public elementary schools and secondary schools, especially in communities adversely affected by the recent closing or substantial downsizing of a military base or facility; and (5) enhance school security measures. Chapter IV: Notification for Juvenile Justice and Law Enforcement Purposes - Directs the Secretary to prepare and distribute to SEAs and LEAs a notice regarding the extent of permissible disclosure of educational records under the General Education Provisions Act and related regulations. Title II: Amendments to the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 - State Education Flexibility Act - Amends ESEA to include under targeted uses of LEA innovative education assistance funds: (1) programs using scholarships or vouchers provided to a parent by an LEA that permit the parent to select the public or private, including sectarian, school that the parent's child will attend; (2) education reform projects that provide same gender schools, as long as comparable educational opportunities are offered for students of both sexes; and (3) education reform projects that reward teachers, administrators, and schools with cash bonuses and other incentives for significantly improving the academic performance of their students. Title III: Tax Incentives for Higher Education - Affordable College Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code with respect to qualified State tuition programs to provide for Bob Dole Education Investment Accounts. Limits contributions to such an account to $1,000 in cash per calendar year for an account holder under age 18. Exempts such accounts from Federal income taxation, except the tax on the unrelated business income of charitable organizations. (Sec. 301) Prohibits the establishment of such an account for the benefit of more than one individual. Provides that, if at any time during a calendar year, two or more education investment accounts are maintained for the benefit of an individual, only the account first established shall be treated as a Bob Dole education investment account (except where more than one account exists solely by reason of a rollover contribution). (Sec. 302) Extends permanently the tax exclusion for educational assistance programs provided by employers. Allows such programs to include assistance for graduate education. (Sec. 303) Revises the tax treatment of qualified State tuition programs to exclude from gross income any distributions used for qualified higher educational expenses, including room and board. (Sec. 304) Allows a tax deduction for up to $2,500 per year of interest on education loans, with specified reductions for taxpayers whose adjusted gross income exceeds certain amounts. Allows such deduction whether or not the taxpayer itemizes other deductions. Requires specified tax returns from persons (including governmental units) which have received education loan interest in the course of trade or business from individuals. (Sec. 305) Excludes from gross income any payments received under a Federal work study program. Title IV: Funding for Part B of the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act - Amends the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act to extend the authorization of appropriations for Assistance for Education of All Children with Disabilities. Title V: Adult Education and Family Literacy - Subtitle A: Adult Education Act - Amends the Adult Education Act (AEA) to revise and consolidate AEA programs for adult education and family literacy, and to extend the authorization of appropriations for such programs. (Sec. 511) Revises requirements for Grants to Eligible Agencies, National Programs, and the National Institute for Literacy. Renames the National Institute Board the National Institute for Literacy Advisory Board. Directs the Secretary of Education to carry out a program of national leadership activities to enhance the quality of adult education and family literacy programs nationwide, including specified types of assistance, evaluation, and demonstration activities. (Sec. 512) Extends the authorization of appropriations for the functional literacy and life skills program for State and local prisoners. (Sec. 513) Revises specified provisions of the Refugee Education Assistance Act of 1980 and ESEA to conform to the amendments made to AEA. Subtitle B: Demonstration Programs and Projects to Promote Literacy - Amends ESEA title X (Programs of National Significance) to authorize the Secretary of Education to make grants to and contracts and cooperative agreements with SEAs, LEAs,, institutions of higher learning, and other public and private organizations to establish Demonstration Partnerships to Promote Literacy. Authorizes appropriations. Subtitle C: National Commission on Literacy - National Commission on Literacy - Establishes the National Commission on Literacy to review and report to the President and the Congress on the social and economic impact of illiteracy in the United States and any correlation between such impact and welfare costs, juvenile delinquency, special education, adult literacy programs, drug addiction, and underemployment. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1997
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Product Liability Reform Title II: Biomaterials Access Assurance Title III: Limitations on Applicability; Effective Date Product Liability Reform Act of 1997 - Title I: Product Liability Reform - Applies this Act to any product liability action in any State or Federal court on any theory for harm caused by a product, except for commercial loss actions. (Sec. 103) Imposes seller liability if the seller failed to exercise reasonable care, made an express warranty, or engaged in intentional wrongdoing. Declares that a failure to inspect is not a failure of reasonable care if there was no reasonable opportunity to inspect or if the inspection would not have revealed the aspect that caused the harm. Makes a seller liable as a manufacturer if the manufacturer is not subject to service or if the claimant would be unable to enforce a judgment. Makes certain persons engaged in the business of renting or leasing liable as a seller, but prohibits liability for the tortious act of another solely by reason of ownership. (Sec. 104) Makes it a complete defense if the claimant was under the influence of alcohol or a drug and was more than 50 percent responsible. (Sec. 105) Reduces damages by the percentage of harm attributable to misuse or alteration, except for actions involving an employer or co-employee if the employer or co-employee is, under State law, immune from claimant's action. (Sec. 106) Limits the time within which a product liability action must be started, with a separate limit for durable goods other than motor vehicles, vessels, aircraft, or trains used primarily to transport passengers for hire. (Sec. 107) Allows a claimant or defendant in a product liability action to offer to proceed with voluntary, nonbinding alternative dispute resolution. (Sec. 108) Allows punitive damages, as permitted by State law, if the claimant shows by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant's conduct, carried out with a conscious, flagrant indifference to the rights or safety of others, was the proximate cause of the harm. Regulates punitive damage amounts. (Sec. 110) Permits several and prohibits joint liability for noneconomic loss, allocating liability in direct proportion to the percentage of responsibility. (Sec. 111) Grants an insurer a right of subrogation whether or not the insurer is a party. Prohibits an employee from making settlements or accepting payments without the consent of the employer. Requires, if the manufacturer or seller alleges the harm was the fault of the claimant's employer or coemployee, that the issue be submitted to the trier of fact. Reduces damages if it is found by clear and convincing evidence that the harm was so caused, but requires the manufacturer or seller to reimburse the insurer for attorney's fees and costs if it is not so found. Title II: Biomaterials Access Assurance - Biomaterials Access Assurance Act of 1997 - Applies this title, subject to exception, to any civil action in Federal or State court against a manufacturer, seller, or biomaterials supplier, on any legal theory, for harm allegedly caused by an implant. (Sec. 205) Declares that a biomaterials supplier shall not be liable for harm caused by an implant unless the supplier: (1) is a manufacturer; (2) is a seller; and (3) furnishes materials or parts that fail to meet contractual requirements or specifications. Sets forth the circumstances in which a supplier may be considered a manufacturer and the circumstances in which a supplier may be considered a seller. Allows a supplier, to the extent required and permitted by other law, to be liable if the claimant shows, by a preponderance of the evidence, violation of contractual requirements or specifications. (Sec. 206) Sets forth procedures relating to motions by a supplier to dismiss actions that are subject to this title. Title III: Limitations on Applicability; Effective Date - Makes any circuit court of appeals decision interpreting this Act a precedent for any Federal or State court within that court's geographic jurisdiction. Declares that U.S. district courts shall not have jurisdiction under this Act based on provisions of the U.S. Code relating to Federal questions, commerce and antitrust, and amounts in controversy.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits outlays for a fiscal year (except those for repayment of debt principal) from exceeding total receipts (except those derived from borrowing) for that fiscal year unless the Congress, by a three-fifths roll call vote of each House, authorizes a specific excess of outlays over receipts. Requires a three-fifths roll call vote of each House to increase the public debt. Directs the President to submit a balanced budget to the Congress. Requires the approval of a majority of each House by roll call vote before any bill to increase revenue may become law. Authorizes the Congress to waive these provisions when: (1) a declaration of war is in effect; or (2) the United States is engaged in a military conflict which poses a threat to national security as declared by a joint resolution adopted by a majority of each House. Makes this article effective beginning with FY 2002 or with the second fiscal year beginning after its ratification, whichever is later.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1997
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Transfer of Alien Prisoners Title II: Exclusionary Rule Reform Subtitle A: Exclusionary Rule Reform Subtitle B: Confession Reform Title III: Violent Crime, Drugs, and Terrorism Subtitle A: Criminal Penalties and Procedures Subtitle B: International Terrorism Subtitle C: Commissions and Studies Title IV: Community Protection Subtitle A: Law Enforcement Assistance Subtitle B: Citizens' Assistance Title V: Criminal Procedure Improvements Subtitle A: Equal Protection for Victims Subtitle B: Firearms Subtitle C: Federal Death Penalty Title VI: Increased Penalties for Trafficking and Manufacture of Methamphetamine and Precursors Title VII: Combating Violence Against Women and Children Subtitle A: General Reforms Subtitle B: Domestic Violence Title VIII: Violent Crime and Terrorism Subtitle A: Violent Crime and Terrorism Subtitle B: Courts and Sentencing Subtitle C: White Collar Crime Subtitle D: Miscellaneous Provisions Title IX: Prison Reform Subtitle A: Prison Litigation Reform Subtitle B: Federal Prisons Title X: Miscellaneous Provisions Title XI: Violent and Repeat Juvenile Offenders Subtitle A: Juvenile Justice Reform Subtitle B: Juvenile Gangs Subtitle C: Juvenile Crime Control and Accountability Omnibus Crime Control Act of 1997 - Title I: Transfer of Alien Prisoners - Transfer of Alien Prisoners Act of 1997 - Directs the Attorney General to begin transferring undocumented aliens who are incarcerated in the United States and whose convictions have become final to the custody of the government of the alien's country of nationality for service of the duration of the alien's sentence in that country, except for aliens who are nationals of a foreign country that the Secretary of State (Secretary) has determined has repeatedly provided support for acts of international terrorism. (Sec. 103) Directs the Secretary to: (1) renegotiate all treaties requiring the consent of such an alien to such a transfer; and (2) withdraw the United States as a party to any such treaty requiring such consent if the Secretary is unable to negotiate a new treaty that would go into effect by December 31, 1998. Specifies that the consent of an alien covered by this title shall not be required before such alien may be designated for transfer or before such alien may be transferred to the country of nationality of that alien. (Sec. 104) Directs the President, by March 1 of each year, to submit to the Congress: (1) a certification as to whether each foreign country has accepted, and has confined for the duration of their sentences, such persons; and (2) a report describing the operation of the provisions of this title, particularly with regard to the ten countries having the greatest number of their nationals incarcerated in the United States. (Sec. 107) Provides for the withholding of bilateral assistance, opposition to multilateral development assistance, and withholding of visas with respect to countries refusing to accept at least 75 percent of such nationals designated for transfer or to confine such persons for at least 85 percent of their sentences, with exceptions. Sets forth provisions regarding certification procedures, waivers, congressional review, and denial of assistance for countries decertified. (Sec. 108) Directs: (1) the Secretary to begin to negotiate and renegotiate bilateral prisoner transfer treaties; and (2) the President to submit to Congress an annual certification as to whether each such treaty in force is effective. Title II: Exclusionary Rule Reform - Subtitle A: Exclusionary Rule Reform - Exclusionary Rule Reform Act of 1997 - Amends the Federal criminal code (the code) to bar the exclusion of evidence obtained as a result of a search or seizure carried out under circumstances justifying an objectively reasonable belief that the search or seizure was in conformity with the Fourth Amendment. Specifies that the fact that evidence was obtained pursuant to and within the scope of a warrant constitutes prima facie evidence of the existence of such circumstances. Prohibits the exclusion of evidence on the ground that it was obtained in violation of a statute, administrative rule or regulation, or rule of procedure unless the exclusion is expressly authorized by statute or by a rule prescribed by the Supreme Court pursuant to statutory authority. Provides that evidence which is otherwise excludable under such provision shall not be excludable where the search and seizure was carried out in circumstances justifying an objectively reasonable belief that it was in conformity with the pertinent statute, administrative rule or regulation, or rule of procedure. Subtitle B: Confession Reform - Amends the code to direct the Attorney General to require the Department of Justice (DOJ) to enforce, and defend nationally, the legality of confession reform provisions and, specifically, to pursue the admission into evidence of confessions that are voluntarily given. Provides that, in determining the issue of voluntariness: (1) DOJ shall consider all the circumstances surrounding the confession; (2) the presence or absence of any of certain listed factors shall not be conclusive; and (3) the fact that the defendant had not been advised, prior to questioning, of his or her right to silence and to the assistance of counsel shall not be dispositive. Title III: Violent Crime, Drugs, and Terrorism - Drug Investigation Support and Antiterrorism Act of 1997 - Subtitle A: Criminal Penalties and Procedures - Amends the code to: (1) make it a Federal offense to murder a person during and in relation to any international Olympic Games held in the United States; and (2) include among "internationally protected persons" any participant or guest attending any international sporting event sponsored and sanctioned by the International or United States Olympic Committee. (Sec. 312) Directs the Attorney General to supervise other Federal authorities and personnel in the provision of security services (including conducting a comprehensive review of plans for the housing of athletes and other eligible guests) by establishing an Olympic Security Task Force. Sets forth provisions regarding task force composition, requests for assistance, agreements and regulations, and expedited review of housing arrangements. (Sec. 313) Amends: (1) the Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act of 1996 (Antiterrorism Act) to include within provisions regarding malicious destruction by fire or explosives specified activities against any institution or organization receiving Federal financial assistance; and (2) related provisions under the code to cover such activities at public places. (Sec. 314) Makes it a Federal offense to knowingly develop, produce, acquire, stockpile, retain, transfer, own or possess any chemical weapon without lawful authority. Sets forth provisions regarding jurisdiction, payment to the United States of incidental expenses incident to seizure or destruction, criminal forfeiture, warrants for seizure, forfeiture orders, execution of such orders, disposition of seized property, authority of the Attorney General, bars on intervention, jurisdiction to enter orders, depositions, third party interests, and substitute assets. Subtitle B: International Terrorism - Urges the President to commence diplomatic efforts to establish a multilateral sanctions regime against each country that the Secretary determines to have repeatedly provided support for acts of international terrorism. Directs the President to include in the annual report on patterns of global terrorism a description of the extent to which such efforts have been carried out, the degree of their success, and a plan of action for inducing each such country to cease support for acts of international terrorism. (Sec. 322) Amends the Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1988 and 1989 to require the annual country reports on terrorism to include with respect to each foreign country from which the U.S. Government has sought cooperation during the preceding five-year period in the investigation or prosecution of an act of international terrorism against U.S. citizens or interests, information on the extent to which the government of such country is cooperating with the U.S. Government in apprehending, convicting, and punishing each individual responsible and in preventing further acts of terrorism against U.S. citizens in the foreign country. (Sec. 323) Directs the Secretary to submit to specified congressional leaders annual classified and unclassified reports on international terrorism, including a detailed assessment of the efforts of individual countries to take effective action against countries determined to have repeatedly supported acts of international terrorism. (Sec. 324) Amends the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to replace the current Department of State rewards program with one under which the Secretary may pay a reward to any individual who furnishes information leading to: (1) the arrest or conviction in any country of any individual for the commission of an act of international terrorism against a person or property, for conspiring or attempting to commit such act, for specified narcotics-related offenses, or for aiding or abetting the commission of such acts; or (2) the prevention, frustration, or favorable resolution of such acts. Sets forth provisions regarding coordination with DOJ. Authorizes appropriations. Sets limitations on rewards. Makes an officer or employee of a governmental entity who, while performing official duties, furnishes such information ineligible for a reward under this section. Sets forth reporting requirements. Excludes from judicial review determinations by the Secretary regarding whether to authorize, or the amount of, a reward. Urges the Secretary to pursue additional means of funding the program. Subtitle C: Commissions and Studies - Establishes the National Commission on Terrorism. Title IV: Community Protection - Community Protection Initiative of 1997 - Subtitle A: Law Enforcement Assistance - Amends the code to exempt qualified current and former law enforcement officers from State laws prohibiting the carrying of concealed firearms. Subtitle B: Citizens' Assistance - Citizens' Assistance Act of 1997 - Grants congressional consent to States to enter into compacts or agreements for cooperative effort in enabling individuals to carry concealed firearms. (Sec. 423) Amends: (1) the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 (Safe Streets Act) to authorize State and local use of drug control and system improvement grant funds to train members of the public in the safe possession, ownership, handling, carrying, and use of firearms, subject to specified restrictions on the collection and use of data about any program participant; and (2) the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act to allow the sale, delivery, or transfer of a handgun to a person protected under a court order regarding harassment, stalking, threatening, or related conduct with respect to an intimate partner or such partner's child. Title V: Criminal Procedure Improvements - Subtitle A: Equal Protection for Victims - Amends: (1) rule 24 of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure (FRCP) to provide for six peremptory challenges by each side and rule 23 to allow six-member juries under specified circumstances; and (2) rule 404 of the Federal Rules of Evidence (FRE) to permit rebuttal of attacks on the victim's character. (Sec. 504) Amends the code to repeal a requirement that notice of release of prisoners be used only for law enforcement purposes. (Sec. 505) Amends the Federal judicial code regarding the balance in the composition of rules committees. Subtitle B: Firearms - Imposes the following minimum penalties: (1) five years for using or carrying a firearm during the commission of a Federal crime of violence or drug trafficking crime; (2) ten years if the firearm is discharged; and (3) life imprisonment or punishment by death if the death of a person results. (Sec. 522) Provides mandatory penalties of ten or twenty years' imprisonment, respectively, for firearms possession by persons with one or two prior convictions for violent felonies or serious drug offenses. (Sec. 523) Makes specified mandatory penalties applicable when firearms are used in connection with counterfeiting or forgery offenses. (Sec. 524) Prohibits possession of an explosive during the commission of a felony. (Sec. 525) Doubles the penalty for a second offense of using an explosive to commit a felony. (Sec. 526) Amends: (1) the Controlled Substances Import and Export Act (CSIEA) to require the court to sentence a person convicted of specified acts of international drug trafficking (importation offense) consisting of bringing into the United States a mixture or substance equal to 100 usual dosage amounts of such mixture or substance, to life imprisonment without possibility of release (or death, for repeat violations); and (2) the code to make a second or subsequent importation offense consisting of bringing a controlled substance into the United States an aggravating factor in determining whether a death sentence is justified. Subtitle C: Federal Death Penalty - Revises Federal death penalty standards and procedures, including by requiring the jury (or the court, as applicable) in determining whether a death sentence is justified, to consider and determine (as an aggravating factor) whether the defendant: (1) used or possessed a firearm during and in relation to the commission of the offense or in escaping or attempting to escape apprehension; or (2) has previously been convicted of a Federal or State offense punishable by a term of imprisonment of more than one year involving the use of a firearm against another person. Requires the defendant to give notice of mitigating factors that will be relied upon in a capital sentencing hearing. Permits the information presented by the Government in support of factors concerning the effect of the offense on the victim and the victim's family to include oral testimony, a victim impact statement, and any other relevant information. Directs the jury to recommend a sentence of death if it unanimously finds at least one aggravating factor and no mitigating factor, or if it finds one or more aggravating factors that outweigh any mitigating factors. Repeals Controlled Substances Act (CSA) provisions establishing death penalty procedures specifically for persons convicted of engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise where the Government seeks the death penalty. Amends the code to include death during commission of another crime as an aggravating factor for homicide. Adds many other such aggravating factors, such as that the victim of a capital offense was pregnant, handicapped, or a custodial parent of a child under age 18. (Sec. 542) Includes murder of a witness as an aggravating factor to be considered in determining whether a death sentence is justified. (Sec. 543) Provides for imposition of the death penalty for murders committed in the District of Columbia. Title VI: Increased Penalties for Trafficking and Manufacture of Methamphetamine and Precursors - Amends the CSA and CSIEA to decrease the quantities of methamphetamine necessary to trigger specified trafficking penalties. (Sec. 602) Amends the code, the Federal judicial code, and FRCP 35 to authorize a reduction of sentence for providing substantial assistance in an investigation of any offense. (Sec. 603) Revises death penalty provisions under the code pursuant to regulations to be promulgated by the Attorney General. Directs a U.S. marshal charged with supervising the implementation of a death sentence to use appropriate Federal facilities for that purpose. (Sec. 604) Limits the term of office of the Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Agency to a single ten-year period, with an exception. (Sec. 605) Makes serious juvenile drug offenses predicate offenses under the Armed Career Criminal Act. (Sec. 606) Amends the CSA to set mandatory minimum prison sentences for persons who use minors in drug trafficking activities or who sell drugs to minors. Increases penalties for committing drug offenses in drug-free zones. (Sec. 607) Amends the CSA and CSIEA to increases penalties for trafficking in listed chemicals. Title VII: Combating Violence Against Women and Children - Subtitle A: General Reforms - Makes religious organizations eligible to participate in any grant program authorized pursuant to the Violence Against Women Act of 1994 (VAWA) which allow for the participation of nongovernmental entities, programs, or agencies, or private organizations. Prohibits Federal or State governmental agencies receiving funds under any such program from discriminating against an organization on the basis that such organization has a religious character. (Sec. 702) Authorizes appropriations for FY 1999 under: (1) the Safe Streets Act for domestic violence arrest grants; (2) the VAWA for rural domestic violence and child abuse enforcement assistance; and (3) the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act for runaway, homeless, and street youth assistance grants. Subtitle B: Domestic Violence - Amends the code to authorize the death penalty for fatal interstate domestic violence offenses and fatal interstate violations of protective orders. (Sec. 713) Amends FRE 404 to allow the admission of evidence of the defendant's disposition toward the victim in domestic violence and other cases. (Sec. 714) Amends the code to provide for testing for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in sexual assault cases. Directs the United States Sentencing Commission (the Commission) to amend the Federal sentencing guidelines to enhance the sentence in such cases where the offender knew he or she was infected, except if the offender did not engage or attempt to engage in conduct creating a risk of transmission of the virus to the victim. Amends Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 (VCCLEA) provisions regarding payment of the cost of testing for sexually transmitted diseases to authorize the Government to obtain an order requiring that the defendant be tested for the presence of the etiologic agent for acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Title VIII: Violent Crime and Terrorism - Subtitle A: Violent Crime and Terrorism - Amends the Antiterrorism Act to apply enhanced penalties for the use of explosives or arson crimes to damage or destroy the property of any institution or organization receiving Federal financial assistance. Redefines: (1) "biological agent" to include bacteria, fungi, rickettsiae, protozoa, or any synthesized component of any microorganism or infectious substance; and (2) "toxin" to include the toxic product of plants, animals, microorganisms, or a synthesized molecule. (Sec. 802) Includes within the scope of the kidnapping offense abductions when an individual travels in interstate or foreign commerce, or when the mail or a facility in interstate or foreign commerce is used, in furtherance of the offense. (Sec. 803) Expands provisions regarding violent crimes in aid of racketeering activity to cover all violent crimes in aid of racketeering activity and to increase penalties for specified attempt and conspiracy offenses. (Sec. 804) Amends: (1) the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act to provide that a person who conspires to commit an offense under the Act shall be subject to the same penalties (including the death penalty) as prescribed for the offense; and (2) the Antiterrorism Act to provide for the death penalty for conspiracies involving explosives. (Sec. 805) Includes as a "serious drug offense" (and a predicate offense under the Armed Career Criminal Act) an offense under State law which would have been punishable by a maximum term of at least ten years' imprisonment; (1) if it had been prosecuted as a CSA violation at the time of the offense; and (2) because of the type and quantity of the controlled substance involved. (Sec. 806) Increases penalties for violence in the course of a riot. (Sec. 807) Eliminates as a requirement for carjacking that the offense be committed with intent to cause death or serious bodily harm. (Sec. 808) Sets penalties for: (1) criminal offenses committed by persons formerly serving with, presently employed by, or accompanying the armed forces outside the United States; (2) the use of interstate commerce facilities in the commission of felony crimes of violence for hire; and (3) specified felony offenses directed at buildings or property in Indian country. (Sec. 810) Enhances penalties for offenses resulting in death involving assault on mail delivery people, robberies and burglaries involving controlled substances, interstate domestic violence, animal enterprise terrorism, and racketeering. Subtitle B: Courts and Sentencing - Amends the code, the Federal judicial code, and FRCP 35 to authorize a reduction of sentence for providing useful investigative information although not regarding a particular individual. (Sec. 822) Amends the code to: (1) allow appeals by the United States in a criminal case to lie to a court of appeals under specified circumstances as to any part of any count; and (2) repeal a requirement that the U.S. attorney certify to the district court that the appeal is not taken for purpose of delay and that the evidence is substantial proof of a fact material in the proceeding. (Sec. 824) Amends: (1) VCCLEA to direct the Commission to promulgate, or amend existing, guidelines to provide sentencing enhancements of not less than three offense levels for offenses that the court at sentencing (currently, the finder of fact at trial) determines beyond a reasonable doubt are hate crimes; and (2) the code to authorize the court to impose a sentence of probation or supervised release with or without conditions when reducing a sentence of imprisonment in certain cases. Subtitle C: White Collar Crime - Sets penalties for larceny involving post office boxes and postal stamp vending machines. (Sec. 843) Makes provisions regarding transportation of stolen vehicles, and sale or receipt of stolen vehicles, applicable to vessels (certain watercraft). (Sec. 844) Defines "subpoena for records," for purposes of provisions regarding obstruction of criminal investigations, to include a Federal grand jury subpoena for customer records that has been served relating to a violation of, or a conspiracy to violate, the CSA, CSIEA, or certain Internal Revenue Code (IRC) provisions. (Sec. 845) Authorizes the Attorney General to commence a civil action in Federal court to enjoin counterfeiting and forgery violations. Directs that a permanent or temporary injunction or restraining order be granted without bond. Requires the court to proceed as soon as practicable to the hearing and determination of such an action and authorizes the court, at any time before final determination, to enter such a restraining order or prohibition or to take such other action as is warranted. Specifies that a proceeding under this section is governed by the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, except that, if an indictment has been returned against the respondent, discovery is governed by the FRCP. Subtitle D: Miscellaneous Provisions - Increases penalties for violations of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). (Sec. 862) Makes the prohibition on the use as evidence of intercepted wire or oral communications inapplicable to the disclosure by the United States, a State, or political subdivision in a criminal trial or hearing or before a grand jury of the contents of a wire or oral communication, or evidence derived therefrom, the interception of which was in violation of provisions relating to certain interceptions not involving governmental misconduct. (Sec. 863) Amends provisions concerning violations of, or crimes committed while on, probation or parole to violations of, or crimes committed while on, supervised release. (Sec. 864) Includes providing material support to designated foreign terrorist organizations as a predicate offense under money laundering provisions. (Sec. 866) Defines "financial institution" to cover foreign bank branches in a commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States. Title IX: Prison Reform - Subtitle A: Prison Litigation Reform - Renames the Prison Litigation Reform Act (PLRA) of 1995 (title VIII of the Omnibus Consolidated Rescissions and Appropriations Act of 1996 (OCRAA)) as the PLRA of 1996. (Sec. 902) Amends OCRAA provisions with respect to prison conditions to prohibit the court from ordering any prospective relief that requires or permits a government official to exceed his or her authority under State or local law or that otherwise violates State or local law, unless Federal law requires (currently, permits) such relief to be ordered in violation of State or local law and other specified conditions are met. Sets forth provisions regarding orders refusing to impose a stay and court intervention. (Sec. 903) Amends the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act to provide that no civil action shall be brought regarding prison conditions until the plaintiff has exhausted administrative remedies. Limits recovery of attorney's fees except to the extent that such fees were directly and reasonably incurred in: (1) proving an actual violation of the plaintiff's Federal rights; (2) successfully obtaining contempt sanctions for a violation of previously ordered prospective relief that meets specified standards, if the plaintiff made a good faith effort to resolve the matter without court action; or (3) successfully obtained court ordered enforcement of previously ordered prospective relief that meets such standards, if the enforcement order was necessary to prevent an imminent risk of serious bodily injury to the plaintiff and the plaintiff made a good faith attempt to resolve the matter without court action. Requires the amount of the fee to be proportionately related to the court ordered relief for the violation. Specifies that: (1) if a monetary judgment is the sole or principal relief awarded, the award of attorney's fees shall not exceed 100 percent of the judgment; and (2) no award of attorney's fees shall be based on an hourly rate greater than 150 percent of the hourly rate established for payment of court-appointed counsel or $100 per hour, whichever is less. Authorizes a defendant to waive the right to respond to any complaint in any civil action arising under Federal law brought by a prisoner. Specifies that such waiver shall not waive any affirmative defense available to the defendant and that no relief shall be granted to the plaintiff unless a response has been filed. Authorizes the court to direct any defendant to file a response. (Sec. 904) Amends Federal judicial code provisions regarding proceedings in forma pauperis to require the court to assess and, when funds exist, collect, as a partial payment of any court fees required by law, an initial partial filing fee of 20 percent of the greater of the average monthly deposits to the prisoner's account or the average of the highest monthly balance recorded for the prisoner's account for each of the six months immediately preceding the filing of the complaint or notice of appeal. Directs the agency having custody of the prisoner to forward certain deducted payments to clerk of the court either upon deduction or on a monthly basis, accompanied by appropriate documentation. Authorizes the agency, if the judgment for costs is held by the agency or the agency's employees having custody of the prisoner, to withdraw 20 percent of each deposit to the prisoner's account and apply that amount to payment of the judgment until the judgment is paid in full. (Sec. 905) Authorizes the court, in any civil action brought in Federal court by a prisoner other than a prisoner confined in a Federal correctional facility, to make a finding whether: (1) the claim was filed for a malicious purpose or to harass the party against which it was filed; or (2) the claimant testified falsely or otherwise knowingly presented false evidence or information to the court. Permits the court, upon making such affirmative finding, to: (1) revoke good time credit or the institutional equivalent accrued to the prisoner; or (2) consider such finding in release determinations. (Sec. 906) Amends the PLRA to provide that any damages (currently, any compensatory damages) awarded to a prisoner in connection with a civil action brought against any Federal, State, or local jail, prison, or correctional facility shall be paid directly to satisfy any outstanding restitution orders pending against the prisoner. Repeals a requirement that the remainder of any such award be forwarded to the prisoner. (Sec. 907) Amends the PLRA to authorize the court, in any civil action brought by a person convicted of a crime and confined in a Federal correctional facility, to make a finding whether: (1) the claim was filed for a malicious purpose or to harass the party against which it was filed; or (2) the claimant testified falsely or otherwise knowingly presented false evidence or information to the court. Directs the Bureau, if the court makes such affirmative finding, to revoke unvested good time credit or the institutional equivalent accrued to the prisoner. (Sec. 908) Specifies that: (1) credit that has not been earned may not later be granted and credit that has been revoked (under section 907) may not later be reinstated; and (2) credit awarded may be revoked by the Bureau for noncompliance with institutional disciplinary regulations at any time before vesting. Subtitle B: Federal Prisons - Creates an exemption from wiretapping provisions for: (1) interception by a law enforcement officer of any wire, oral, or electronic communication if at least one of the parties to the communication is an inmate or detainee in the custody of the Attorney General of the United States or is in the custody of a State or political subdivision thereof; or (2) the use of a pen register, trap and trace device, or clone pager if the facility is regularly used by such an inmate or detainee. Directs the Attorney General to promulgate regulations governing such interceptions to protect communications protected by the attorney-client privilege and the right to counsel guaranteed by the sixth amendment. (Sec. 912) Requires the Bureau (with exceptions) to ensure that no prisoner or detainee under its jurisdiction: (1) engages in any physical activity designed to increase or enhance fighting ability or to increase physical strength; and (2) is permitted access to certain television or movie viewing, sexually explicit printed material, or bodybuilding or weightlifting equipment; (3) is permitted possession of any in-cell coffee pot, hot plate, or other heating element; or (4) is permitted use or possession of electric or electronic musical equipment. Requires the Director to ensure that each convicted inmate in the custody of the Attorney General and confined in a Federal prison, correctional facility, jail, or other facility shall be engaged in work. Sets forth provisions regarding determination of type of work, excuse from such requirement, and lack of compensation. (Sec. 913) Directs the Bureau to make available appropriate substance abuse treatment for each prison the Bureau determines has a treatable drug abuse problem, with priority to younger offenders and those who would benefit most from the treatment. Repeals provisions regarding requirements for a phase-in of substance abuse treatment and regarding incentives for prisoners' successful completion of treatment. Title X: Miscellaneous Provisions - Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) the Office of National Drug Control Policy should be reauthorized for an additional five years; and (2) prior to any such reauthorization, the Senate Judiciary Committee should conduct an extensive review of the National Drug Control Strategy for 1997 submitted by President Clinton. (Sec. 1002) Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to require hospitals or health care service providers that receive Federal Medicare or Medicaid payments, as an additional certification requirement, to certify that none of their physicians or other health care professionals prescribes or recommends a schedule I substance to any person. Sets forth reporting requirements. Directs the Attorney General to revoke the DEA registration of any physician or provider who recommends or prescribes such a substance. (Sec. 1003) Directs the Federal Communications Commission to: (1) coordinate with the President's Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention to develop a comprehensive education and public service program targeting youth drug abuse; (2) encourage the priority use of public service resources dedicated to promoting youth drug abuse prevention and education; (3) contact and encourage the donation of greater public resources dedicated to youth drug abuse programs from specified organizations and industries, such as television, movies, the recording and advertising industries, business, and professional sports; and (4) encourage each of such organizations and industries to assist the implementation of new programs and national strategies for dissemination of information intended to prevent youth drug abuse. (Sec. 1004) Directs the Secretary to review all extradition treaties in force and, if necessary, to renegotiate all such treaties, to ensure that certain offenses involving the sexual exploitation and abuse of children are extraditable offenses. Sets forth provisions regarding tolling of the statute of limitations. (Sec. 1005) Amends the Economic Espionage Act of 1996 to require the Director of the Bureau of Justice Assistance, for FY 1997 through 2001, to make grants to the Boys and Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) to establish clubs facilities where needed, with particular emphasis on establishing clubs in public housing projects and distressed areas. Directs the Attorney General to accept and approve an application for such a grant submitted by BGCA if the application: (1) includes a long-term strategy to establish 1,000 additional clubs and a detailed summary of those areas in which new facilities will be established during the next fiscal year and a plan to insure that there are a total of not less than 2,000 BGCA facilities in operation before January 1, 2000; (2) certifies that there will be appropriate coordination with those communities where clubs will be located; and (3) explains the manner in which new facilities will operate without additional, direct Federal financial assistance. Earmarks specified funds to provide a grant to BGCA for administrative, travel, and other costs associated with a national role-model speaking tour program. (Sec. 1006) Increases penalties for cellular telephone interceptions. Title XI: Violent and Repeat Juvenile Offenders - Violent and Repeat Juvenile Offender Act of 1997 - Subtitle A: Juvenile Justice Reform - Repeals code provisions regarding surrender of juveniles to State authorities by Federal authorities. (Sec. 1112) Requires that a juvenile age 14 or older who is alleged to have committed an act that, if committed by an adult, would be a criminal offense, be tried as an adult at the discretion of the U.S. Attorney in the appropriate jurisdiction upon a finding, which shall not be subject to court review, that there is a substantial Federal interest in the case or the offense to warrant the exercise of Federal jurisdiction, if the juvenile is charged with a Federal offense that is a crime of violence or that involves a controlled substance for which the penalty is at least five years' imprisonment. Permits the U.S. Attorney, upon declining prosecution of the charged person as a juvenile, to refer the matter to the appropriate legal authorities of the State or Indian tribe. Directs that offenses tried in U.S. district court under this Act be open to the public, with exceptions (but makes the defendant's status as a juvenile, absent other factors, insufficient to close the proceeding). Grants the U.S. Attorney, in making determinations concerning juvenile prosecution, complete access to prior Federal juvenile records and, to the extent permitted by State law, prior State juvenile records. (Sec. 1113) Lowers the minimum age at which a defendant may be sentenced to death from age 18 to 16. (Sec. 1115) Subjects a juvenile tried as an adult to code provisions regarding detention, speedy trial, and restitution for adults. Specifies that no juvenile sentenced to a term of imprisonment shall be released from custody simply because the juvenile reaches age 18. (Sec. 1119) Authorizes the release of juvenile records to meet inquiries from any school or other educational institution to ensure public safety and security. (Sec. 1120) Requires the Director of the Bureau of Prisons to ensure that juveniles who are alleged or determined to be delinquent are not confined in any institution in which the juvenile has regular sustained physical contact with adult persons who are detained or confined. (Sec. 1121) Applies to juvenile defendants tried as adults provisions directing the Commission, under specified circumstances, to assure that the Federal sentencing guidelines specify a sentence to a term of imprisonment at or near the maximum term authorized. Subtitle B: Juvenile Gangs - Federal Gang Violence Act - Directs the Commission to amend the sentencing guidelines to provide an appropriate enhancement, increasing the offense level by not less than six levels, for any offense committed in connection with, or in furtherance of, the activities of a criminal street gang where the defendant was a member of such gang at the time of the offense. (Sec. 1143) Amends code provisions regarding criminal street gangs to: (1) delete the definition of "conviction"; (2) redefine "criminal street gang" to cover a group whose members have engaged during the previous five-year period in a pattern of criminal gang activity; and (3) define "pattern of criminal gang activity" to mean the commission of two or more predicate gang crimes in connection with the activities of a criminal street gang, on separate occasions, at least one of which crimes was committed after the date of this subtitle's enactment and the first of which was committed not more than five years before the commission of another predicate gang crime. Defines "predicate gang crime" as an offense, including an act of juvenile delinquency that, if committed by an adult, would be: (1) a Federal offense that is a crime of violence, that involves a controlled substance for which the penalty is at least five years' imprisonment, or that is a violation of other specified prohibitions under the code or under the Immigration and Nationality Act; (2) a State offense involving conduct that would constitute such an offense if Federal jurisdiction existed or had been exercised; or (3) a conspiracy, attempt, or solicitation to commit such offenses. Sets penalties for engaging in a pattern of criminal gang activity. (Sec. 1144) Amends the Travel Act to increase: (1) penalties for violations; and (2) the scope of unlawful activities under such Act. (Sec. 1145) Prohibits and sets penalties for soliciting or recruiting persons to participate in criminal street gang activity. (Sec. 1146) Makes: (1) crimes involving the recruitment of persons to participate in criminal street gangs, and acts or conspiracies to violate firearms laws, predicate offenses under RICO; and (2) serious juvenile drug offenses predicate offenses under the Armed Career Criminal Act. Increases penalties for firearms prohibitions, including by setting a three-year minimum term of imprisonment for transferring firearms to minors for use in crime. (Sec. 1148) Directs the Commission to amend the sentencing guidelines to provide an appropriate sentencing enhancement, increasing the offense level not less than two levels, for any crime in which the defendant used body armor. (Sec. 1149) Authorizes appropriations to hire Assistant U.S. Attorneys and attorneys in DOJ's criminal division to prosecute juvenile criminal street gangs. Subtitle C: Juvenile Crime Control and Accountability - Amends the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 (JJDPA) to direct the Administrator of the Office of Juvenile Crime Control and Accountability (replacing the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention) to develop objectives, priorities, and short- and long-term plans, and implement overall policy and a strategy to carry out such plan, for all Federal juvenile crime control and juvenile offender accountability programs and activities relating to improving juvenile crime control and enhancing accountability by offenders within the juvenile justice system. Sets forth provisions regarding plan contents, annual reviews of plans, duties of the Administrator, budget proposal development and submission, reporting, reprogramming, and recordkeeping requirements, utilization of information, services, and facilities of other agencies, coordination of functions, and annual juvenile delinquency development statements. Directs the Administrator to make grants to States to assist them in planning, establishing, operating, coordinating, and evaluating: (1) projects for the development of more effective investigation, prosecution, and punishment of crimes or acts of delinquency committed by juveniles; (2) programs to improve the administration of justice for and ensure accountability by juvenile offenders; and (3) programs to reduce the risk factors associated with juvenile crime or delinquency. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) use of grant funds, eligibility requirements, distribution of sums by State offices to eligible applicants, applications to State offices, funding period, grant renewal, and special grants; and (2) allocation of grant amounts. Prohibits reallocation of sums due to the ineligibility or nonparticipation of any State. Limits the use of grant funds, including a prohibition against the use of such funds for: (1) biomedical or behavior control experimentation on individuals or research involving such experimentation; (2) construction, with exceptions; (3) job training; (4) specified lobbying activities; (5) and specified legal actions. Prohibits the Federal Government and States receiving funds from discriminating against religious organizations under specified circumstances. Sets penalties for violating prohibitions under this subtitle. Authorizes appropriations. Allocates funds. Requires States, to receive formula grants, to submit plans which meet specified requirements, such as designation of a State agency as the sole agency for supervising the preparation and administration of the plan, and providing for an analysis of juvenile crime problems and juvenile justice and delinquency prevention needs within the relevant jurisdiction. Sets forth provisions regarding approval of State plans by the State agency and by the Administrator, and reduction of allocations if a State fails to comply with requirements of this subtitle. (Sec. 1163) Amends the JJDPA to: (1) reauthorize appropriations for runaway and homeless youth and missing children programs; and (2) repeal provisions regarding incentive grants for local delinquency prevention programs. (Sec. 1167) Repeals: (1) specified provisions of titles III (Crime Prevention), V (Drug Courts), and XXVII (Presidential Summit on Violence and National Commission on Crime Prevention and Control) of VCCLEA; (2) the Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1994; (3) the School Dropout Assistance Act; (4) specified provisions of the Public Health Service Act providing for grants to public and nonprofit private entities for projects to demonstrate effective models for the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of drug abuse and alcohol abuse among high risk youth; (5) specified programs under the Human Services Reauthorization Act and the Community Services Block Grants Act; and (6) specified provisions of Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988 concerning the drug abuse education and prevention program relating to youth gangs and the program for runaway and homeless youth. (Sec. 1168) Requires each State to reserve not more than 30 (currently, 15) percent of the amount of funds allocated in a fiscal year for counties and units of local government to construct, develop, expand, modify, or improve jails and other correctional facilities. (Sec. 1169) Requires that a surcharge of 40 percent of the principal amount of a civil monetary penalty be added to each monetary penalty assessed by the United States or any agency thereof at the time the penalty is assessed, except for penalties assessed under the IRC, to be used for Federal programs to combat youth violence.
United States · United States Congress · 7 January 1997
Enhancement of Trade, Security, and Human Rights through Sanctions Reform Act - Declares that it is the purpose of this Act to establish an effective framework for consideration by the legislative and executive branches of unilateral economic sanctions. (Sec. 3) Declares that it is U.S. policy to: (1) pursue U.S. interests through vigorous and effective diplomatic, political, commercial, charitable, educational, cultural, and strategic engagement with other countries, while recognizing that U.S. national security interests may sometimes require the imposition of economic sanctions on other countries; (2) foster multilateral cooperation on vital matters of U.S. foreign policy, including promoting human rights and democracy, combating international terrorism, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and international narcotics trafficking, and ensuring adequate environmental protection; (3) promote U.S. economic growth and job creation by expanding exports of goods, services, and agricultural commodities, and by encouraging investment that supports the sale abroad of U.S. products and services; (4) maintain the reputation of U.S. businesses and farmers as reliable suppliers to international customers of quality products and services; (5) avoid the use of restrictions on exports of agricultural commodities as a foreign policy weapon; and (6) oppose policies of other countries designed to discourage economic interaction with countries friendly to the United States or with any U.S. national, and to avoid use of such measures as instruments of U.S. foreign policy. States that when economic sanctions are necessary, it is U.S. policy to: (1) target them as narrowly as possible on those foreign governments, entities, and officials that are responsible for the conduct being targeted, thereby minimizing unnecessary or disproportionate harm to individuals who are not responsible for such conduct; and (2) to the extent feasible, avoid any adverse impact of economic sanctions on the humanitarian activities of the United States and foreign nongovernmental organizations in a country against which sanctions are imposed. (Sec. 5) Provides that any bill or joint resolution imposing or authorizing the imposition of a unilateral economic sanction by the executive branch, and considered by the House of Representatives or the Senate, should: (1) state the U.S. foreign policy or national security objective; (2) terminate after two years unless specifically reauthorized; (3) provide for contract sanctity; (4) provide presidential authority to adjust or waive the sanction in the national interest; (5) target the sanction as narrowly as possible against the parties responsible for the conduct being targeted; and (6) provide for expanded export promotion programs if sanctions are likely to target an export market for American farmers. (Sec. 6) Sets forth a procedure for congressional consideration of any bill or joint resolution that imposes, or authorizes the imposition of, any unilateral economic sanction by the executive branch. Requires the committee of primary jurisdiction reporting such a bill or joint resolution to timely request specified reports: (1) from the President assessing the likelihood that the proposed unilateral economic sanction will achieve its stated objective within a reasonable period of time, as well as the impact of the proposed unilateral economic sanction on U.S. foreign policy, national security, and humanitarian activities; and (2) from the Secretary of Agriculture assessing the extent to which any country or countries proposed or likely to be sanctioned are markets that accounted for more than three percent of all U.S. agricultural export sales in the preceding calendar year, as well as the likelihood that U.S. agricultural exports will be affected by the proposed sanction or by retaliation by any country proposed or likely to be sanctioned, and specific commodities which are most likely to be affected. Considers any bill or joint resolution that imposes any unilateral economic sanction to include a Federal private sector mandate for purposes of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995. Requires the Congressional Budget Office, in its report pursuant to such Act, to assess the likely short- and long-term costs of the proposed sanction to the U.S. economy. (Sec. 7) Authorizes the President to implement a unilateral economic sanction under any provision of law not less than 60 days after announcing his intention to do so. Requires any executive sanction to include a clear finding that the sanction is likely to achieve a specific U.S. foreign policy or national security objective within a reasonable and specified period of time. Requires, before imposition of a unilateral economic sanction, that the President and the Secretary of Agriculture report to appropriate congressional committees the same assessments required in connection with any bill or joint resolution imposing or authorizing the imposition of a unilateral economic sanction by the executive branch. Requires the President to request a report by the U.S. International Trade Commission on the likely short- and long-term costs of the proposed sanction to the U.S. economy, including the potential impact on U.S. competitiveness. Provides, in the case of a national emergency, for allowing the President temporarily to waive most of the requirements for executive action in order to act immediately, generally requiring the waived requirements to be met within 60 days after imposition of the sanction (which shall terminate after 90 days if such requirements are not met). Directs the President to establish an interagency Sanctions Review Committee to coordinate U.S. policy regarding unilateral economic sanctions and provide appropriate recommendations to the President.
United States · United States Congress · 2 October 1996
Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute Administrative Systems Act of 1996 - Provides that certain civil service laws relating to personnel management shall not apply to applicants for employment with, employees of, or positions in or under the Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute. Requires the Institute president by regulation to prescribe alternative personnel management provisions. Disallows covering current Institute employees except pursuant to a voluntary election. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to delegate to the institute president procurement authority with respect to the conduct of the administrative functions of the Institute. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1996
Makes technical corrections to the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (the Act) with respect to: (1) the limitations on FY 1997 Federal obligations for the Temporary Family Assistance Program under new part A of title IV of the Social Security Act (raising the formula ceiling of the limitation to include any amount a State would have been eligible to receive from the Contingency Fund for State Welfare Programs during a specified transition period); and (2) a State's annual reconciliation refund of certain excess grant payments to the Contingency Fund for State Welfare Programs (revising the Federal child care assistance payment and State child care assistance expenditures components of the reconciliation formula). Makes these amendments effective as if included in the Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 September 1996
Jackie Robinson Commemorative Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to: (1) mint and issue one-dollar silver coins emblematic of Jackie Robinson in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the breaking of the color barrier in major league baseball; and (2) distribute surcharge proceeds to the Jackie Robinson Foundation to enhance its education and youth leadership programs, and increase the availability of scholarships for economically disadvantaged youths. Prescribes conditions for payment of such surcharges, including a proscription against Foundation compensation to any agent or attorney for services rendered to support or influence legislative action of the Congress relating to the coins minted and issued under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 1996
Highway Funding Fairness Act of 1996 - Requires the Secretary of Transportation, for FY 1997, to determine the Federal-aid highway apportionments and allocations to a State without regard to the approximately $1.596 billion credit to the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) of estimated taxes paid by States that was made by the Secretary of the Treasury for FY 1995 in correction of an accounting error made in FY 1994. Requires the Secretary, for each State, to: (1) determine whether the State would have been apportioned and allocated an increased or decreased amount for Federal-aid highways for FY 1996 if such error had not been made; and (2) adjust such amount for FY 1997 by the amount of the increase or decrease and to adjust accordingly the obligation limitation for Federal-aid highways distributed to the State under provisions of the Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1997. States that nothing in this Act shall affect any apportionment, allocation, or distribution of obligation limitation, or reduction thereof, to a State for Federal-aid highways for FY 1996.
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 1996
Commends Operation Sail and encourages its continuation into the next millennium. Encourages all individuals to join in the celebration of the 224th birthday of the United States of America and the international camaraderie that Operation Sail and the International Naval Review will foster.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1996
Bandelier National Monument Boundary Modification Act of 1996 - Requires the Secretary of Energy to transfer to the Secretary of the Interior administrative jurisdiction over specified land on which sewage lagoons for the Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico are located. Requires such land to be: (1) administered as part of the Monument; and (2) subject to all laws applicable to it and all laws generally applicable to National Park System units.
![Official portrait of Sen. Domenici, Pete V. [R-NM]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/d000407_200.jpg)