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Official portrait of Sen. Fowler, Wyche, Jr. [D-GA]

Sen. Fowler, Wyche, Jr. [D-GA]

United States · Official source

Records

1,453 records where Sen. Fowler, Wyche, Jr. [D-GA] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 244 (102nd)referred

A joint resolution to recognize and honor the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws on its Centennial for its contribution to a strong federal system of government.

United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1992

Recognizes and commemorates the centennial of the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws. Requests the President to issue a proclamation observing the centennial from January 1 through December 31, 1992.

Bill· SS. 2134 (102nd)referred

1996 Atlanta Centennial Olympic Games Commemorative Coin Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 November 1991

1996 Atlanta Centennial Olympic Games Commemorative Coin Act - Provides for the minting and sale of commemorative gold and silver coins to support the 1996 Atlanta Centennial Olympic Games and the programs of the United States Olympic Committee.

Bill· SS. 2117 (102nd)referred

Social Security Service Preservation Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 26 November 1991

Social Security Service Preservation Act of 1991 - Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974, the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act), and the Budget Enforcement Act of 1991 to exclude social security administrative expenses from the budget. Exempts such expenses from sequester. Sets forth baseline amounts for FY 1992 through 1996 for such expenses. Provides for decreasing the discretionary spending limit for the domestic category for FY 1992 through 1995.

Bill· SS. 2064 (102nd)open

Nuclear Testing Moratorium Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 November 1991

Nuclear Testing Moratorium Act - Prohibits any funds made available under any law from being used to conduct any explosive nuclear weapons test during the one-year period following the enactment of this Act unless the President certifies to the Congress that the Soviet Union or a successor state has conducted such a test during such period.

Bill· SS. 2041 (102nd)open

Petroleum Marketing Competition Enhancement Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 November 1991

Petroleum Marketing Competition Enhancement Act - Amends the Petroleum Marketing Practices Act to prohibit a refiner from: (1) selling motor fuel to a customer for resale (customer) at a price higher than the refiner's adjusted retail price for the same or similar grade or quality of motor fuel sold from a direct operated outlet in the same geographic area (sale of fuel at higher prices); and (2) entering into a scheme or agreement to set, change, or maintain maximum retail prices of motor fuel, except with respect to a refiner's retail sales at its direct operated outlets. Requires that: (1) in comparing a refiner's price charged to a customer to a refiner's adjusted retail price, adjustments be made to account for differences in freight, taxes, and inspection fees, whether or not the items are separately listed as part of the price; and (2) if a refiner includes consumer credit as part of the price, an adjustment for the cost of such credit be made in comparing the prices. Sets forth enforcement provisions, including: (1) proceedings by the Attorney General (establishes fines ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 for each violation, and authorizes civil actions, equitable and other relief); (2) private civil actions (including class actions, and establishes a right to jury trial); and (3) proceedings by State attorneys general. Allows a person bringing an action to enforce provisions concerning the sale of fuel at higher prices to establish a prima facie case by showing that the refiner has sold motor fuel to a customer at a price that is higher than: (1) 94 percent of its consumer retail price per gallon (or, in the event of a sale to a branded wholesaler, 90 percent); or (2) the refiner's consumer retail price per gallon minus the most recently available average retail operating expenses per gallon (and, in the event of a sale by a refiner to a branded wholesaler, also minus the most recently available average wholesale operating expenses per gallon for the State in which the consumer retail price was charged). Specifies that: (1) the average retail and average wholesale operating expenses shall be obtained from the annual survey conducted by the relevant State, or if the State has not conducted such survey, the annual survey conducted by the Secretary of Energy (pursuant to this Act); and (2) the prima facie case may be overcome by a preponderance of evidence that the refiner's actual retail and the actual wholesale operating expenses, if applicable, are less than the average operating expenses presented by the plaintiff to establish the prima facie case. Directs the Secretary to conduct an annual survey to determine the average retail and average wholesale operating expenses per gallon for the petroleum industry. Permits a State or State agency to authorize an annual State survey to reflect local conditions with respect to motor fuels sold to the public in the State. Directs that a survey regarding: (1) actual retail operating expenses be based on all direct and indirect expenses attributable to the sale of a gallon of motor fuel to the public by direct and nondirect operated outlets; and (2) wholesale operating expenses be based on all direct and indirect expenses attributable to the wholesale sale of a gallon of motor fuel by a refiner or a branded wholesaler to a branded dealer.

Bill· SS. 2047 (102nd)open

A bill to establish a commission to commemorate the bicentennial of the establishment of the Democratic Party of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 25 November 1991

Establishes a Commission on the Bicentennial of the United States' Democratic Party to coordinate ceremonial events and related activities during 1992. Requires the Commission to submit periodic reports and a final one to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President Pro tempore of the Senate on its activities. Terminates the Commission on February 13, 1993, unless otherwise provided by law.

Bill· SS. 2015 (102nd)referred

A bill to urge and request the award of the bronze star to Navy and Marine Corps personnel who served in the defense of Corregidor Island, the Philippines, under General Wainwright.

United States · United States Congress · 21 November 1991

Urges and requests the President to require the Secretary of the appropriate military department to award the bronze star to each member of the Navy or Marine Corps who served under General Wainwright during the defense of Corregidor Island, the Philippines, during World War II.

Bill· SS. 2009 (102nd)referred

Reforestation Tax Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 21 November 1991

Reforestation Tax Act of 1991 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide corporations a partial inflation adjustment for the deduction from gross income for qualified timber gain. Allows such deduction in computing adjusted gross income. Provides for applying passive loss limitations to timber activities. Increases the amount allowable as a deduction for amortization of reforestation expenditures and provides an inflation adjustment after calendar year 1992. Applies such inflation adjustment to the reforestation credit.

Bill· SS. 1949 (102nd)open

Chattahoochee National Forest Protection Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 12 November 1991

Chattahoochee National Forest Protection Act of 1991 - Designates certain lands in the Chattahoochee National Forest, Georgia, as wilderness and therefore as components of the National Wilderness Preservation System. Designates such lands, as follows: (1) the Blood Mountain Wilderness; (2) the Mark Trail Wilderness (from lands depicted as the Chattahoochee Headwaters Wilderness); and (3) an additional part of the Brasstown Wilderness as designated by the Georgia Wilderness Act of 1986. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture (the Secretary) to administer each such wilderness area designated by this Act in accordance with the Wilderness Act. Designates certain lands in such Forest as: (1) the Coosa Bald Scenic Area; and (2) the Springer Mountain National Recreation Area. Directs the Secretary to administer such areas in a specified manner. Provides that completion of existing timber sales under contract shall not be prevented by such designations. Withdraws such areas from disposition under all laws pertaining to mineral leasing. Authorizes the Secretary, in cooperation with Georgia, to permit the continued maintenance of existing wildlife openings, as well as new openings in such areas. Directs the Secretary to file a map and legal description of each area designated by this Act with specified congressional committees. Exempts any privately held lands within these designated areas from the purposes of this Act.

Bill· SS. 1932 (102nd)open

Enterprise Capital Formation Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 7 November 1991

Enterprise Capital Formation Act of 1991 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a deduction for gain on investments in new small business stock (seed capital) held for at least five years. Establishes special rules for such investments. Provides for determining the maximum capital gains rate for small business net capital gain or seed capital gain. Treats capital gains on the sale of such stock as a preference item for purposes of the minimum tax.

Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 74 (102nd)referred

A concurrent resolution calling for acceptance and implementation by certain republics of the commitments on human rights, fundamental freedoms, and humanitarian cooperation contained in the Helsinki Final Act and other documents of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe.

United States · United States Congress · 5 November 1991

Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the leaders of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Byelorussia (a.k.a. Belarus), Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan (a.k.a. Kirghizia), Moldavia (a.k.a. Moldova), Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan should accept and implement all commitments on human rights, fundamental freedoms, and humanitarian cooperation contained in the Helsinki Final Act, the Charter of Paris for a New Europe, or any other document of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe; and (2) the President should convey to the leaders of these republics that respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms is a vital element in achieving genuine security and cooperation in Europe and should keep the Congress informed of the status of human rights and fundamental freedoms in each of these republics.

Bill· SS. 1886 (102nd)open

Medicaid Moratorium Amendments of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 29 October 1991

Medicaid Moratorium Amendments of 1991 - Amends the Technical and Miscellaneous Revenues Act of 1988 to: (1) delay until September 30, 1992, the issuance of regulations changing the treatment under the Medicaid program (title XIX of the Social Security Act) of voluntary contributions and provider-specific taxes; and (2) maintain current regulations that allow intergovernmental transfers as a source of a State's expenditures for which Federal matching funds are available under the Medicaid program. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to submit to specified congressional committees a report on: (1) regulations to limit the use of voluntary contributions and provider-specific taxes to obtain Federal financial participation; (2) specific types of voluntary contributions and provider-specific taxes that may be used as sources of a State's expenditures for which Federal financial participation is available; and (3) any legislation that the Secretary believes is appropriate. Sets forth budget compliance provisions.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 211 (102nd)passed

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate regarding human rights abuses in China against writers and journalists.

United States · United States Congress · 29 October 1991

Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President should: (1) communicate to the leadership of the Government of the People's Republic of China the concern of the Congress and the citizens of the United States for the rights of political prisoners; and (2) urge such Government to recognize the right of Dai Qing and all Chinese writers and journalists to free expression and travel.

Bill· SS. 1883 (102nd)referred

A bill to provide for a joint report by the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Agriculture to assist in decisions to reduce administrative duplication, promote coordination of eligibility services and remove eligibility barriers which restrict access of pregnant women, children, and families to benefits under the food stamp program and benefits under titles IV and XIX of the Social Security Act.

United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1991

Directs the Secretaries of Health and Human Services and Agriculture to jointly report to the President and the Congress on the differences in program rules under the food stamp program, Aid to Families with Dependent Children program (part A of title IV of the Social Security Act), and Medicaid program (title XIX of the Social Security Act) and how such rules could be made uniform.

Bill· SS. 1866 (102nd)open

National Community Economic Partnership Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 24 October 1991

National Community Economic Partnership Act of 1991 - Amends the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 to establish a National Commission on Community Economic Development (the Commission), as an independent agency, to: (1) administer the community development programs established under this Act; and (2) serve as a focal point for Federal promotion of community-based economic development. Directs the Commission to develop and promulgate, in consultation with the heads of other Federal agencies, regulations to permit appropriate operation of joint programs coordinating activities supported with assistance under this Act with activities supported with assistance under programs administered by such agency heads. Authorizes the Commission to enter into contracts and other appropriate arrangements with nonprofit organizations for operation and management of any projects undertaken under such a joint program. Requires the Commission to coordinate such joint programs with other related Federal, State, local, and private activities. Establishes a program of community economic partnership investment funds. Authorizes the Commission to provide nonrefundable lines of credit to community development corporations (CDCs) to establish, maintain, or expand revolving loan funds to finance projects to: (1) provide business and employment opportunities for low-income and unemployed individuals; and (2) improve the quality of life in urban and rural areas. Sets forth requirements relating to such revolving loan funds, including: (1) competitive assessment of applications from eligible entities for capitalization of such funds; (2) applications including strategic investment plans and demonstrations of experience and achievement; (3) matching local funds (with exceptions); (4) application approval criteria, including priority for target areas with low incomes and high unemployment; and (5) availability of lines of credit; (6) authorized uses of lines of credit and of revolving loan funds; (7) limitations on use of funds; (8) local contributions; and (9) use of proceeds from investments. Requires the Commission to give priority in providing lines of credit under this Act to CDCs that propose to undertake economic development activities in distressed communities that target women, Native Americans, at-risk youth, farmworkers, very low-income communities, single mother or refugees and programs providing loans in limited amounts to very small business enterprises. Allows not more than five percent of program appropriations to be reserved for such priority activities. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1993 through 1995 for such community economic partnership investment funds program. Establishes a program for emerging community development corporations (CDCs). Directs the Commission to award: (1) grants to community development corporations to attain or enhance the business management and development skills of the individuals that manage such CDCs, in order to enable such CDCs, to seek the public and private resources necessary to develop community economic projects; and (2) operating grants to community development corporations to enable them to support an administrative capacity for planning, developing, and management of low-income community development projects. Sets forth authorized uses and maximum amounts of, and application requirements for, such grants. Authorizes the Commission to award grants to emerging CDCs to enable them to establish, maintain, or expand revolving loan funds, to make or gurantee loans, or to make capital investments in new or expanding local businesses. Sets forth eligibility requirements, authorized uses of such revolving loan funds and of proceeds from investments, and maximum grant amount. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1993 through 1995 for such program for emerging CDCs. Establishes a community economic development research and demonstration program. Directs the Commission to award grants to enable eligible organizations to undertake programs involving research, testing, studies, or demonstrations related to community economic development. Makes eligible for such grants, if they submit appropriate applications, the following entities: CDCs, universities, fiscal intermediaries, or nonprofit organizations involved in community-based economic development. Sets forth authorized uses and maximum amount of such grants. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1993 through 1995 for such grants program. Prohibits funds authorized under this Act from being used to finance the construction of housing.

Bill· SS. 1863 (102nd)open

A bill to provide for the establishment of a program that shall facilitate, on a voluntary request basis, the reunion of birth parents and adopted individuals, birth siblings, or birth grandparents of adopted individuals, through a centralized computer network, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 23 October 1991

Authorizes establishment of the National Voluntary Reunion Registry to facilitate on a voluntary mutual request basis the reunion of adopted persons with birth parents, siblings, and grandparents. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· SS. 1845 (102nd)referred

Financial Aid for All Students Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 22 October 1991

Financial Aid for All Students Act of 1991 - Title I: Pell Grant Entitlement, Graduate Assistance, and Excellence Scholarships - Amends title IV (Student Assistance) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to revise provisions for Pell Grants. Increases the Pell Grant maximum by $600, after July 1, 1994, and makes the additional amount for which the student qualifies an entitlement. Authorizes a full entitlement under the Pell Grant program for all eligible students, if the Congress makes available for such purpose sufficient additional revenue or savings pursuant to the Budget Enforcement Act of 1990. Makes first-year graduate students eligible for Pell Grants if: (1) they would be eligible if they were undergraduates; and (2) there has been full funding of Pell Grants for undergraduate students in that fiscal year. Establishes an Excellence Scholarship Program for Pell Grant recipients who demonstrate high academic achievement. Grants eligible students a contractual right against the United States to receive such scholarships. Makes students eligible if they: (1) have received a Pell Grant for that academic year, are enrolled on at least a half-time basis in a program of study of at least two academic years in length that leads to a degree or certificate, and meet the following conditions for demonstrating academic excellence: (1) in the case of first year undergraduates, by taking specified college preparatory level coursework and by ranking in the top ten percent of their secondary school graduating class or achieving at least the minimum designated score on a nationally administered standardized test or participating for at least 36 months in an early intervention program, a special program for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, or similar program; (2) in the case of students who initially qualified for a first-year scholarship because they participated in such early intervention or special program, by participating in student support program services and continuing to make significant progress toward agreed-upon academic milestones; and (3) in the case of any other student, by ranking in the top ten percent of their last completed undergraduate class year or meeting another measure of academic achievement determined by the Secretary of Education (the Secretary). Sets such scholarship award at $1,000 for any academic year. Reduces such amount by the amount it exceeds the student's cost of attendance by itself or when combined with other Federal or non-Federal grant or scholarship assistance in the academic year. Provides for proportionate reductions in each award to adjust for insufficient appropriations. Allows eligible students to receive up to four scholarships, each for one academic year, for undergraduate study (or five scholarships for undergraduate study programs that require attendance for the full-time equivalent of five academic years). Provides that a student's eligibility for such a scholarship does not depend on receipt of scholarship or Pell Grant in the previous academic year. Title II: Income-Dependent Education Assistance Program - Establishes the Income-Dependent Education Assistance (IDEA) Credit program as part D of title IV of HEA. (Replaces the current part D, Income Contingent Direct Loan Demonstration Project.) Directs the Secretary to: (1) make IDEA loans to eligible students; and (2) enter into an agreement with the Secretary of the Treasury for the collection of repayments on such loans. Grants eligible students a contractual right against the United States to receive a loan under such IDEA program. Sets the following conditions for student eligibility for an IDEA loan: (1) eligibility for title IV assistance in accordance with specified provisions; (2) carrying at least one-half the normal full-time course work load; (3) applying for title IV need-based assistance,in the cases of independent students with adjusted gross incomes below specified levels and dependent students with family incomes below specified levels; (4) notification of the head of household of eligibility for a parent (PLUS) loan, in the case of dependent students with expected family contributions above specified levels; and (5) the borrower understanding and signing a statement that taking the IDEA loan will increase such individual's income taxes until the loan is paid in full with interest. Requires each eligible student to use the IDEA loan only to attend an eligible institution. Sets forth provisions for distribution of program funds to eligible institutions and students. Sets forth provisions for the amounts and terms of IDEA loans. Sets annual limits on the amounts of such loans to various categories of students. Sets a limitation on individual borrowing capacity, with adjustments for the borrower's age, exceptions for certain graduate students, and consideration of any outstanding student loan obligations. Limits the duration of individual eligibility for such loans. Sets forth requirements for: (1) agreements to the terms of such loans; and (2) applications. Sets forth provisions for interest charges on such loans. Requires such charges to be added to the recipient's obligation account at the end of each calendar year. Bases such charges on an interest rate equal to the lesser of: (1) ten percent; or (2) the sum of the average bond equivalent rates of 91-day Treasury bills auctioned for the previous year, plus two percentage points, rounded to the next higher one-eighth of one percent. Provides for conversion and consolidation of certain other types of student loans as IDEA loans. Authorizes the Secretary, upon request of borrowers who have received federally insured or guaranteed loans under title IV HEA (Stafford loans) or of the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) (HEAL loans), to make new IDEA loans to such borrowers which are equal to the sum of the unpaid principal of those other loans and which discharge the liability on those other loans. Provides for mandatory conversion of certain defaulted student loans to IDEA loans. Requires IDEA collection treatment of any loan made, insured, or guaranteed under specified provisions of HEA or PHSA after enactment of this Act which is assigned after default for collection by the Secretary of Education or the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Directs the Secretary of Education to study and report to the Congress on the effects of: (1) the IDEA program on participating institutions' tuition rates and accrediting and licensure standards; and (2) inflation on IDEA loan limits, on the progressivity factor in IDEA loan collection formulas, and on the cost of attendance at an eligible institution. Authorizes the Secretary, after consultation with the appropriate congressional committees, to make inflation adjustments to increase: (1) IDEA loan limits; (2) adjusted gross income levels used to determine the progressivity factor in IDEA loan collection formulas; and (3) the cost of attendance determination for purposes of IDEA loan amounts. Directs the Secretary to notify each IDEA loan borrower of his or her yearly repayment obligation. Sets forth formulas for computation of the annual IDEA loan repayment amount. Makes such amount equal to the lesser of: (1) 20 percent of the excess of the modified adjusted income of the taxpayer for such taxable year over the sum of the standard deduction and any applicable exemption; or (2) the product of a base amortization amount and a progressivity factor based on the taxpayer's modified adjusted gross income. Defines "base amortization amount" as the amount which, if paid at the close of each year for 12 consecutive years, would fully repay (with an eight-percent annual interest rate) the maximum account balance of the borrower. Sets forth progressivity factor tables for various types of taxpayers. Provides that, in general, the repayment obligation of an IDEA loan borrower shall terminate only if there is repaid the principal plus interest at applicable rates. Requires no repayment after 25 years in repayment status. Sets forth provisions for the determination of years in repayment status. Provides for discharge, by the Secretary, of the IDEA loan liability of any borrower who dies or becomes permanently and totally disabled. Provides for crediting of amounts paid on a joint return. Sets forth formulas for computation of an alternative annual payment for individuals who have attained age 55. Provides that, in general, an IDEA loan shall not be dischargeable in a case of bankruptcy, but authorizes the Secretary to postpone certain portions of the loan liability in such cases. Makes specified provisions relating to finality of assessment and collection applicable to such loans. Amends the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to include the amount required to be repaid for IDEA loans under amounts listed under requirements relating to failure by an individual to pay estimated income tax. Requires individuals who are obligated to make IDEA loan repayments to file income tax returns for the applicable years. Adds provisions for the collection of IDEA loans under IRC. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to enter into an agreement with the Secretary of Education to provide for collection of IDEA loan repayments due by using the income tax collection system. Title III: Early Intervention Program - Amends HEA to establish an Early Intervention Program (under provisions for grants to States for student incentives). Directs the Secretary to make incentive grants to States for early intervention programs that: (1) raise the awareness of eligible students about the advantages of obtaining a postsecondary education; (2) prepare students for postsecondary education; and (3) qualify students for Excellence Scholarships for Pell Grant recipients demonstrating academic achievement. Directs the Secretary to allocate such payments to States, on the basis of the number of eligible students, from a specified total amount. Entitles and grants a contractual right to each State to receive such payment, subject to continuing compliance with program requirements. Bases student eligibility for the early intervention program on their eligibility: (1) to be counted under the chapter 1 program for educationally disadvantaged students under title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965; (2) for assistance under the National School Lunch Act; or (3) for assistance under the Aid to Families with Dependent Children program under part A of title IV of the Social Security Act. Requires a State to use its allotment to conduct an early intervention program that: (1) provides eligible students in any of the grades pre-school through 12 with continuing systems of mentoring and advising that is coordinated with Federal and State community service initiatives, that may include specified support services, and that may be provided by specified types of service providers; (2) requires each student to agree to achieve certain academic milestones in exchange for an Excellence Scholarship; (3) creates new linkage structures and programs to encourage greater collaboration between elementary and secondary schools and institutions of higher education; and (4) provides for evaluation to allow service providers to track eligible student progress during program participation. Directs the Secretary to prescribe standards for the evaluation of the State programs. Requires submission of State plans. Requires annual State evaluations of such programs. Requires the Secretary to report annually to the Congress on assisted activities and program evaluations. Title IV: Guaranteed Student Loan Programs - Terminates all student loan programs under part B (Robert T. Stafford Student Loan Program) of title IV of HEA, except the parent loan (PLUS) program. Prohibits any new loan from being made, insured, or guaranteed under part B after June 30, 1994 (including Stafford loans and supplemental loans for students, but not parent PLUS loans). Provides that such prohibition shall not affect the administration of such loans made on or before June 30, 1994.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 201 (102nd)passed

A resolution to express the sense of the Senate regarding enforcement of the oilseeds GATT panel ruling against the European Community.

United States · United States Congress · 22 October 1991

Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) the United States Trade Representative should take action under the Trade Act of 1974 to compensate for any trade losses caused by the European Community's (EC) failure to adopt by October 31, 1991, a new oilseeds regime that conforms with the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) panel oilseed ruling; and (2) such actions should remain in effect until the EC's oilseed regime conforms with its GATT obligations.

Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 70 (102nd)open

A concurrent resolution to express the sense of the Congress with respect to the support of the United States for the protection of the African elephant.

United States · United States Congress · 17 October 1991

Expresses the sense of the Congress that the United States should continue to support the full protection of the African elephant through an unqualified listing of all populations of the African elephant on Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna.

Bill· SS. 1810 (102nd)referred

Medicare Physician Payment Reform Implementation Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 4 October 1991

Medicare Physician Payment Reform Implementation Act of 1991 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to: (1) direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to increase the conversion factor for physicians' services for each of the years after 1993 through 1996 by one-fourth of the percentage by which the conversion factor may have been decreased due to an adjustment for asymmetry in 1992; (2) prohibit the Secretary, in determining the conversion factor for 1992, from assuming that changes in the volume and intensity of physician services in response to the implementation of the new payment system for such services would increase the estimated aggregate physician expenditures by more than one percent; (3) make any reduction to the conversion factor due to assumed volume and intensity changes equally applicable to the adjusted historical payment base; (4) permit separate payment to physicians for interpretation of electrocardiograms (EKGs) provided during office vists; (5) direct the Secretary to: (a) establish separate fee schedule amounts for the interpretation of EKGs; (b) adjust the relative values in the fee schedule for physician visits to reflect separate payments for EKG interpretation; (c) establish EKG practice guidelines for dissemination to physicians along with other educational information relating to EKG use; (d) develop a profile for EKG use by physicians; and (e) study EKG utilization and costs for a report to the Congress; and (6) make the new payment system for physicians nonapplicable to services furnished on or after January 1, 1992, by a physician who was in his or her first, second, or third year of practice in 1991 and to whom the payment rules under the new system did not apply in that year. Prohibits the Secretary from issuing final regulations before July 1, 1993, which change the methodology for determining: (1) the amount of time that may be billed for anesthesia services; and (2) the amount paid for drugs and biologicals furnished incident to physicians' services. Requires the Director of the Office of Technology Assessment to conduct a study and report to the Congress on whether payments for anesthesia services should be based on a particular unit of time according to the medical procedure with respect to which the service is furnished. Requires the Secretary to: (1) conduct a study and report to the Congress with respect to payment for drugs and biologicals furnished incident to physicians' services and payment for multiple surgical procedures; and (2) provide for pilot projects for developing Medicare volume performance standards other than at the national level. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the pilot projects.

Bill· SS. 1777 (102nd)open

Mammography Quality Standards Act of 1992

United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1991

Breast Cancer Screening Safety Act of 1991 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require certification in order for a facility to perform or interpret mammograms, inspect equipment, perform needle localizations or other procedures using mammography equipment, or conduct quality assurance oversight related to mammography. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to issue and renew certificates for up to two years. Allows the Secretary to approve a private nonprofit organization to be an accreditation body which meets certain requirements, including inspecting facilities. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish standards for facilities to assure the safety and accuracy of mammography; (2) specify organizations eligible to certify individuals to perform radiological procedures; (3) specify boards eligible to certify individuals to interpret screening mammograms; (4) establish standards regarding the qualifications for individuals to interpret screening mammograms; and (5) specify boards eligible to certify individuals to inspect screening mammography equipment and oversee quality assurance practices. Directs the Secretary to conduct annual announced and unannounced inspections of certified facilities. Provides for: (1) intermediate sanctions for certain violations; (2) suspension, revocation, and limitation of certificates; and (3) injunctions. Requires fees for certificate issuance and renewal, and for inspections, sufficient to cover costs. Requires annual publication of a list of facilities convicted of fraud and abuse, false billings, or kickbacks, facilities that have had certificates revoked, suspended, or limited, and facilities that have been the subject of a sanction or other similar matters. Allows the Secretary to exempt facilities in a State or locality with more stringent requirements from compliance with this Act. Directs the Secretary to: (1) make grants for research on new methods of establishing a Mammography Registry; and (2) based on the research, establish the Registry. Authorizes grants to enhance the capacity of health personnel in the area of breast cancer mortality prevention. Allows grant funds to be used to establish a breast cancer mortality prevention regional training center and develop a training curriculum. Authorizes appropriations. Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to require that screening mammographies paid for under Medicare be performed by a facility: (1) certified under this Act; and (2) in compliance with specified provisions of this Act.

Bill· SS. 1755 (102nd)open

National Park Service Concessions Policy Reform Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 1991

National Park Service Concessions Policy Reform Act of 1991 - Repeals the Concessions Policy Act of 1965. Provides that such repeal shall not affect the validity of any contract entered into under such Act. Applies the provisions of this Act to such contract to the extent such provisions are inconsistent with the express terms and conditions of it. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to authorize, under specified conditions, private persons, corporations, or other entities to provide and operate such facilities and services in the National Park System. Requires a concessions contract to be awarded only through competitive bid procedures. Allows the Secretary to waive such procedures and award a temporary one in order to avoid interruption of services to the public at a park area. Establishes procedures with respect to processing such competitive bids. Prohibits the Secretary from granting a preferential right to a concessioner to: (1) provide new or additional services at a park area; or (2) renew concessions contracts under this Act. Sets forth a formula for determining franchise fees. Requires the Secretary to review and possibly to readjust the franchise fee at least every five years for concessions contracts with a duration in excess of seven years. Requires all franchise fees to be deposited in a special account in the Treasury for specified uses. Establishes a maximum: (1) ten-year duration for a concessions contract, with exceptions; and (2) two-year duration for a temporary one. Requires the approval of the Secretary before a concessions contract can be transferred, assigned, sold, or conveyed. Protects the possessory interest of concessioners: (1) who have commenced acquisition or construction of any structure on Federal land within a park area before the enactment of this Act, under certain circumstances; and (2) whose contract was entered into on or after the enactment of this Act, except that the actual value of such structure shall be that of the possessory interests as of the termination date of the previous concessions contract. Requires all concessions contracts entered into under this Act to make concessioners responsible for all utility costs incurred by them. Amends Federal law that authorizes the Secretary to provide utility services to concessioners on a reimbursement of appropriation basis. Places limitations on a concessioner's rates and charges to the public. Directs the Secretary to publish in the Federal Register regulations establishing standards and criteria for evaluating the performance of concessioners operating within park areas. Requires the Secretary to evaluate annually each concessioner operating under such contract to determine whether such concessioner has performed satisfactorily. Exempts contracts awarded by the Secretary under this Act from certain provisions of Federal law with respect to leasing of U.S. buildings and properties. Amends the Historical Sites, Buildings and Antiquities Act to repeal provisions authorizing the Secretary to grant concessioner contracts, leases, or permits without advertising and securing competitive bids.

Bill· SS. 1738 (102nd)referred

A bill to prohibit imports into the United States of meat products from the European Community until certain unfair trade barriers are removed, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1991

Declares it is U.S. policy that the European Community's Third Country Meat Directive is an unfair nontariff trade barrier and that it is in the public interest to remove barriers to exports of U.S. meat products. Directs the President to prohibit the importation of all European Community meat products.

Bill· SS. 1725 (102nd)referred

Christopher Columbus Quincentenary Commemorative Coin and Scholarship Endowment Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1991

Christopher Columbus Quincentenary Commemorative Coin and Scholarship Endowment Act of 1991 - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue not more than a specified number of five-dollar gold coins, one-dollar silver coins, and half-dollar clad coins emblematic of the quincentenary of Columbus' encounter with the New World. Sets forth certain features of such coins and provides for their design, issuance, and sale. Terminates the minting of such coins after a certain deadline. Establishes the Christopher Columbus Quincentenary Scholarship Foundation as an independent entity within the executive branch to promote educational activities for secondary students using funds deposited in the Christopher Columbus Quincentenary Scholarship Endowment Fund (the Fund). Requires the Board of Directors of the Foundation to appoint an Executive Secretary who shall be subject to its supervision. Outlines the Fund's operating parameters. Sets forth scholarship criteria for eligible students to be known as "Columbus Scholars." Mandates that the Foundation submit an annual status report to the Congress and the Secretary of Education. Sets forth guidelines for possible termination of the Fund and the Foundation.

Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 194 (102nd)open

A joint resolution to designate 1992 as the "Year of the Gulf of Mexico".

United States · United States Congress · 16 September 1991

Designates 1992 as the Year of the Gulf of Mexico. Expresses the sense of the Congress that governmental entities that have responsibilities relating to the Gulf should work to increase public awareness concerning the immeasurable value of the Gulf's resources and conditions that threaten its aesthetic and economic value.

Bill· SS. 1706 (102nd)referred

A bill to suspend temporarily the duty on pyrmethyl alcohol, metmercazole, and TAC.

United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1991

Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to suspend, through December 31, 1994, the duty on: (1) 3,5-dimethyl-2-hydroxy-methyl-4- methoxypyridine (pyrmethyl alcohol); (2) 2-mercapto-5-methoxy benzimidazole (metmercazole); and (3) thienyl acetyl chloride (TAC).

Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 193 (102nd)referred

A joint resolution to establish a commission to commemorate the bicentennial of the establishment of the Democratic Party of the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1991

Establishes a Commission on the Bicentennial of the United States' Democratic Party (Commission) to coordinate ceremonial events and related activities during the calendar year of 1992. Directs the Commission to report on its activities to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President Pro Tempore of the Senate at the time of its termination on February 13, 1993.

Bill· SS. 1698 (102nd)open

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1991

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Act - Establishes the National Fallen Firefighters' Foundation. Declares that the Foundation is: (1) a charitable and nonprofit corporation to be organized under the laws of the State of Maryland; and (2) not an agency or establishment of the United States. Provides that the Foundation is to: (1) primarily encourage, accept, and administer private gifts of property for the benefit of the National Fallen Firefighters' Memorial and its annual memorial service; (2) provide financial assistance to the families of firefighers who die in the line of duty; and (3) assist in the recognition of such firefighters. Sets forth provisions for establishment and membership of a Board of Directors of the Foundation. Makes the Administator of the U.S. Fire Administration of the Federal Emergency Management Agency an ex officio nonvoting member of the Board, who shall appoint Directors of the Board. Sets forth rights and obligations of the Foundation, including having its principal offices in the State of Maryland. Authorizes the Administrator to: (1) provide, and accept reimbursements for, personnel, facilities, and other administrative services to the Foundation; and (2) accept the services of the Foundation, the Board, and the Board's officers and employees as volunteers in performing functions authorized under this Act. Sets forth requirements relating to audits and annual reports. Provides for relief for certain Foundation acts or failures to act. Provides that the United States is not liable for any debts, defaults, acts, or omissions of the Foundation. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· SS. 1645 (102nd)referred

Income-Dependent Education Assistance Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991

Income-Dependent Education Assistance Act of 1991 - Establishes the income-dependent education assistance (IDEA) program of supplemental direct higher education student loans in which a borrower's annual repayment obligation is dependent upon both postschool income level and borrowing history. Title I: System for Making Income-Dependent Education Assistance Loans - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to: (1) make IDEA loans to eligible students in accordance with this title; and (2) establish an account for each IDEA loan borrower and collect repayments on such loans using the income tax collection system under specified Internal Revenue Code provisions added by title II of this Act. Sets forth provisions for the terms and enforcement of IDEA program agreements between the Secretary of Education and eligible institutions. Sets forth provisions for the amounts and terms of IDEA loans. Sets annual limits on the amounts of such loans to various categories of students. Sets a limitation on individual borrowing capacity, with adjustments for inflation and with consideration of any outstanding student loan obligations. Limits the duration of individual eligibility for such loans. Sets forth requirements for: (1) agreements to the terms of such loans; and (2) disbursement of the proceeds of such loans. Sets forth the responsibilities of eligible institutions and of the Secretary of the Treasury for certain information requirements relating to the IDEA loan program. Sets forth provisions for interest charges on such loans. Requires such charges to be added to the recipient's obligation account at the end of each calendar year. Bases such charges on an interest rate equal to the lesser of: (1) ten percent; or (2) the sum of the average bond equivalent rates of 91-day Treasury bills auctioned for the previous year, plus two percentage points, rounded to the next higher one-eighth of one percent. Provides for conversion and consolidation of certain other types of student loans as IDEA loans. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury, upon request of borrowers who have received federally insured or guaranteed loans under specified provisions of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) (Stafford loans) or of the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) (HEAL loans), to make new IDEA loans to such borrowers which are equal to the sum of the unpaid principal of those other loans and which discharge the liability on those other loans. Provides for mandatory conversion of certain defaulted student loans to IDEA loans. Requires IDEA collection treatment of any loan made, insured, or guaranteed under specified provisions of HEA or PHSA after enactment of this Act which is assigned after default for collection by the Secretary of Education or the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Directs such Secretaries to notify: (1) the Secretary of the Treasury of the need to establish or adjust an IDEA account for such loan's borrower; and (2) the borrower of the conversion of the defaulted loan to an IDEA loan and the procedures for collection under the income tax system. Terminates the authority to make additional loans under the HEA programs of supplemental loans for students (SLS) and direct loans to students in institutions of higher education, for any academic year beginning after the date regulations are prescribed by the Secretaries of Education and the Treasury to carry out this title. Directs the Secretary of Education to study and report to the Congress on the effects of the IDEA program on participating institutions' tuition rates and accrediting and licensure standards. Authorizes appropriations to: (1) make distributions of IDEA loan funds to eligible institutions; and (2) administer and carry out this title. Bases student eligibility for IDEA loans on their eligibility for student assistance under specified HEA provisions and their carrying at least one-half the normal full-time academic workload. Title II: Collection of Income-Dependent Education Assistance Loans - Amends the Internal Code to add provisions for the collection of IDEA loans. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to notify each IDEA loan borrower of their yearly repayment obligation. Sets forth formulas for computation of the annual IDEA loan repayment amount. Makes such amount equal to the lesser of: (1) 20 percent of the excess of the modified adjusted income of the taxpayer for such taxable year over the standard deduction and exemption (twice for joint returns); or (2) the product of a base amortization amount and a progressivity factor based on the taxpayer's modified adjusted gross income. Defines "base amortization amount" as the amount which, if paid at the close of each year for 12 consecutive years, would fully repay (with an eight-percent annual interest rate) the maximum account balance of the borrower. Sets forth progressivity factor tables for various types of taxpayers. Provides that, in general, the repayment obligation of an IDEA loan borrower shall terminate only if there is repaid: (1) in the case of any repayment during the first 12 years for which the borrower is in repayment status, the principal plus interest at an annual rate equal to the otherwise applicable rate plus two and one-half percent; and (2) in the case of any repayment during any subsequent year (or in the case of loans under $3,000 repaid during the first 12 years), the principal plus interest at applicable rates. Requires no repayment after 25 years in repayment status. Sets forth provisions for the determination of years in repayment status. Sets forth the requirements for payment of the amount owing. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to assess and collect any unpaid amount in the same manner as for any delay in the payment of income tax. Provides for discharge, by the Secretary of Education, of the IDEA loan liability of any borrower who dies or becomes permanently and totally disabled. Provides for crediting of amounts paid on a joint return. Sets forth formulas for computation of an alternative annual payment for individuals who have attained age 55. Provides for inflation adjustment in the computation of the progressivity factor. Provides that, in general, an IDEA loan shall not be dischargeable in a case of bankruptcy, but authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to postpone certain portions of the loan liability in such cases. Makes specified provisions relating to finality of assessment and collection applicable to such loans. Includes the amount required to be repaid for IDEA loan under amounts listed under requirements relating to failure by an individual to pay estimated income tax. Requires individuals who are obligated to make IDEA loan repayments to file income tax returns for the applicable years.

Bill· SS. 1672 (102nd)referred

James Madison-Bill of Rights Commemorative Coin Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991

James Madison - Bill of Rights Commemorative Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to issue: (1) five-dollar and half-dollar coins emblematic of the Bill of Rights; and (2) one-dollar silver coins emblematic of James Madison. Sets forth guidelines for their sale and issuance, and for financial assurances. Mandates that the surcharges received by the Secretary be transmitted to the James Madison Memorial Fellowship Trust Fund. Authorizes audits by the Comptroller General. Provides a general waiver of procurement regulations when implementing this Act. Requires the Secretary to submit monthly financial status reports to certain congressional committees.

Bill· SS. 1627 (102nd)referred

Veterans Dignity in Health Care Act of 1991

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991

Veterans Dignity in Health Care Act of 1991 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure that any veteran who is furnished hospital, nursing home, or domiciliary care in a Department of Veterans Affairs (Department) facility shall be entitled to purchase and consume tobacco products there. Requires the Department to maintain, and veterans being treated to have access to: (1) a commissary or canteen for the purchase of such products; and (2) a suitable indoor area for consumption of the products.