United States · United States Congress · 18 May 1983
Intelligence Information Act of 1983 - Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to exempt certain operational files located in the Directorate of Operations, Directorate for Science and Technology, and Office of Security of the Central Intelligence Agency from the disclosure, search and review provisions of the Freedom of Information Act. Limits such exemption to specifically designated files concerned with: (1) the means by which foreign intelligence, counterintelligence, or counterterrorism information is collected through scientific and technical systems; (2) foreign intelligence, counterintelligence, or counterterrorism operations; (3) investigations of potential foreign intelligence, counterintelligence or counterterrorism scources; and (4) intelligence or security liaison arrangements with foreign governments or their intelligence services.
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1983
Patent Term Restoration Act of 1983 - Amends the patent law to extend the terms of patents which encompass specified products or methods for using or producing a product, any of which are subject to certain nonpatent regulatory review periods. Sets forth the terms and conditions of such extension, including a seven year limitation. Directs the Commissioner of Patents to issue to the owner of record of a patent a certificate of extension stating the fact and length of the extension and identifying the product and the use and the claim to which such extension is applicable. Makes such certificate a part of the original patent. Limits the application of such patent term extension to patents for products subject to regulation under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, the Public Health Service Act, the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, the Toxic Substances Control Act, and the Act of March 4, 1913 (relating to virus, serum, toxin, and analogous products).
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1983
Renewable Energy Tax Incentive Act of 1983 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend the residential energy income tax credit for renewable energy sources for five years from 1985 to 1990. Increases from 15 percent to 25 percent the investment tax credit for solar, wind, geothermal, and ocean thermal property. Extends such credits for five years from 1985 to 1990. Extends such credits for hydroelectric generating property and biomass property for five years from 1985 to 1990. Reestablishes the credit for congeneration property until 1990. Qualifies until 1995 affirmative commitments for solar, wind, geothermal, ocean thermal, biomass, and cogeneration projects begun by December 31, 1990. Eliminates the 20 percent limitation for oil and natural gas used in cogeneration facilities. Allows the regular investment tax credit percentage with respect to certain energy property even if such property is a structural component of a building. Qualifies as biomass property methane-containing gas produced by anaerobic digestion from nonfossil waste materials. Revises the definition of geothermal deposit to lower the required temperature to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. (Present regulations require a temperature of 122 degrees Fahrenheit.)
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1983
Expresses the support of the Senate for Lebanon's and Israel's agreement on arrangements for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon. Calls upon other nations to work toward the withdrawal of all foreign forces from Lebanon. Emphasizes the need of all nations to recognize the sovereignty of Lebanon. Urges Syria and the Palestine Liberation Organization to agree to the arrangements for the withdrawal of their forces from Lebanon.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1983
Manufacturing Sciences and Technology Research and Development Act of 1983 - Permits the Secretary of Commerce, through the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Productivity, Technology, and Innovation, to award grants and enter into cooperative agreements to provide for research on ways of producing more efficient manufacturing processes and methods, including: (1) computer-assisted design; (2) automated materials handling; (3) automated testing; and (4) integrated manufacturing systems. Requires grants to be made on a competitive basis. Permits the Secretary to enter into cooperative agreements to establish and support Centers for Manufacturing Research and Technology Utilization. Permits such Centers to conduct applied research on a matching funds basis. Authorizes appropriations for both the grants and cooperative agreements for FY 1984-1988. Directs the Secretary to establish a program of experimental activities to identify the most feasible means of utilizing advanced manufacturing methods by retraining displaced workers. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress within one year on such program. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 and 1985. Directs the Secretary to select specific domestic technology-sensitive industrial sectors to analyze their long-term capability for remaining competitive. Authorizes appropriations for such purpose for FY 1984-1988. Directs the Secretary to establish a Manufacturing Sciences and Technology Enhancement Advisory Committee to advise the Secretary concerning the activities to be conducted under this Act. Requires such Committee to submit to Congress an annual report.
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1983
Increases from 26 to 27 the membership of the Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations. Requires Presidential appointees to such Commission to include selectees: (1) from a panel of at least two elected Indian tribal government officials submitted jointly by the National Congress of American Indians and the National Tribal Chairmen's Association; or (2) from other Indian tribal government officials who have been nominated by governing bodies of Indian tribes.
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1983
Expresses the sense of the Senate that Taiwan should remain a full member of the Asian Development Bank, irrespective of the issue of the People's Republic of China's application to such bank. Declares that the President and the Secretary of State should express U.S. support for Taiwan.
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1983
Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1984 - Title I: Intelligence Activities - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 for intelligence and intelligence-related activities in specified departments and agencies in the U.S. Government, including the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the Department of Defense. Prohibits the use of funds for any activity not specifically authorized. Requires notification of the appropriate congressional committees of any fund transfers between activities. Permits the CIA Director to employ civilian personnel in excess of authorized ceilings (but not more than two percent) for certain purposes. Title II: Intelligence Community Staff - Authorizes appropriations for the Intelligence Community Ssaff for FY 1984. Establishes a ceiling of 211 full-time Intelligence Staff employees. Sets forth conditions for the appointment of a commissioned officer of the Armed Forces as Director or Deputy Director of the Intelligence Community Staff. Title III: Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 for the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability Fund. Title IV: Provisions Relating to Intelligence Agencies - Authorizes the CIA to determine and fix minimum and maximum age limits for appointees to operational positions. Allows the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency to grant honorary awards to employees. Directs the CIA to reimburse the State of Virginia for highway improvements associated with construction at the Agency headquarters. Makes changes in the executive schedule pay rates for the Director and Deputy Director of Central Intelligence. Provides benefits for certain employees of the Department of Defense assigned abroad. Title V: General Provisions - Allows increases in appropriations to cover increases in employee benefits authorized by law.
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1983
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to erect along the approach to Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, a statue or other memorial to honor the combat glider pilots of World War II. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1983
Amends the Davis-Bacon Act (an Act which requires that the locally prevailing wage rate be paid to various classes of laborers and mechanics working under federally-financed or federally-assisted contracts for construction, alteration, and repair of public buildings or public works) to make such Act applicable to helpers as well as laborers and mechanics. Increases from $2,000 to $100,000 the dollar value of contracts to which such Act applies. Directs the Secretary of Labor to base the determination of the wages prevailing for the corresponding classes of laborers, mechanics, and helpers on: (1) the wage paid to 50 percent or more of such corresponding classes of workers employed on projects similar to the contract work in the urban or rural subdivision of the State; or (2) if the same wage is not paid to 50 percent or more, the weighted average of the wages paid to the corresponding classes employed on such similar projects.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1983
Amends the Department of Education Organization Act and the Department of Defense Dependents' Education Act of 1978 to return the operation of the overseas schools for dependents of Department of Defense personnel to the Department of Defense from the Department of Education.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1983
Aviation Drug-Trafficking Control Act - Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to require the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to revoke the airman certificate of any person who has been convicted of violations (other than simple possession) of State or Federal law relating to controlled substances. Requires the Administrator to revoke the airman certificate of any person who has knowingly transported any controlled substance, where such transportation is prohibited. Prohibits the Administrator from reissuing any revoked certificate for a period of five years. Grants the Secretary discretionary authority to reissue such certificate in certain circumstances before the end of a five-year period, but not before the end of the first year after revocation. Requires the Administrator to revoke the certificate of registration of an owner of an aircraft if it is determined that such aircraft has been used to transport controlled substances illegally. Sets forth certificate reissuance guidelines similar to those for the reissuance of airman certificates. Provides criminal penalties for violations of this Act, including selling or using fraudulent certificates.
United States · United States Congress · 20 April 1983
Rail Passenger Service Act Amendments of 1983 - Amends the Rail Passenger Service Act to provide that the two members of the board of directors of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) which are selected by the preferred stockholders shall serve until their successors have been appointed. Provides that the preferred stock issued by the Corporation shall be deemed to have been issued as of the date the Corporation receives the funds for such stock. Authorizes the Corporation to issue preferred stock at par value to the Federal Financing Bank to: (1) repay principal and interest owed to such bank; (2) fund obligations under leases guaranteed by the Secretary of Transportation; and (3) fund the acquisition of titles to cars and locomotives. Directs the Secretary to exercise the rights of the United States as a shareholder of the Corporation. Provides that the authority of the Secretary to guarantee obligations of the Corporation shall expire upon its satisfaction of such obligations. Repeals provisions which established and set forth the duties of the Performance Evaluation Center within the Corporation. Eliminates requirements for monthly performance reports. Requires the Corporation to report to Congress not later than February 15 of each year on its intercity rail passenger service, including data on ridership, short-term avoidable profit or loss per passenger mile, revenue-to-cost ratio, revenues, the Federal and non-Federal subsidies, and on-time performance. Provides that beginning October 1, 1983, the Corporation may continue service on routes where the Secretary recommends discontinuance if the Corporation and the affected State enter into an agreement to ensure that specified criteria are met. Revises such criteria to remove requirements to calculate passenger mile per train mile on such routes. States that trade secrets and commercial or financial information prepared by the Corporation are not subject to public disclosure requirements. Authorizes appropriations for the Corporation for FY 1984 and 1985. Grants the Comptroller General discretionary authority to make performance audits of the Corporation. (Currently the Comptroller General is required to make such audits annually.)
United States · United States Congress · 20 April 1983
Declares that the Senate deplores the bombing of the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon. Urges specified Federal officials to hold memorial or other commemorative ceremonies to honor the victims of the bombing.
United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1983
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act, 1984 - Title I - Authorizes appropriations to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for research and development, construction of facilities, and research and program management for FY 1984. Permits appropriations for research and development to be used for any items of a capital nature (other than acquisition of land) which may be required at locations other than NASA installations for the performance of research and development contracts, and for grants to nonprofit institutions of higher education, or to nonprofit organizations whose primary purpose is the conduct of scientific research for purchase or construction of additional research facilities. Requires the Administrator to notify the appropriate committees of Congress whenever the cost of a facility exceeds a specified amount. Permits funds appropriated for research and development or for construction of facilities to remain available without fiscal year limitation. Permits the funds for construction of any of specified facilities: (1) in the discretion of the NASA Administrator, to be varied upward ten percent; or (2) following a report by the Administrator to the Committee on Science and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the circumstances of such action, to be varied upward 25 percent to meet unusual cost variations. Limits the total cost of all construction work to the total of the amounts specified. Permits one-half of one percent of the funds appropriated for research and development to be transferred to the "Construction of facilities" appropriations. Authorizes the expenditure of such funds, together with $10,000,000 of the funds appropriated for construction of facilities, to construct, expand, or modify laboratories and other installations. Requires the Administrator to notify the appropriate committees of Congress of the specific nature, cost, and reasons for such construction 30 days before expending funds. Permits each committee to provide the Administrator with a written waiver of such period. Prohibits the expenditure of appropriations for deleted programs, for programs in excess of the amount authorized, and for programs which have not been presented to the appropriate committee for a period of 30 days. Amends the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 to prohibit the misuse of the agency's name and initials. Permits the Attorney General to initiate a civil proceeding to enjoin such misuse. Title II - Prohibits the Secretary of Commerce from transferring the ownership or management of any civil land remote sensing space satellite system until a comprehensive plan for such a transfer is submitted to and enacted into law by Congress. Authorizes appropriations for operating such satellite system during FY 1984.
United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1983
Regulatory Reform Act - Amends the Administrative Procedure Act to exempt from its applicability any rule involving public property, contracts, or general policy statements of the Tennessee Valley Authority. Repeals the current exemption provided for matters relating to loans, grants, and benefits. Requires a notice of proposed rulemaking to include: (1) a statement of need and objectives; (2) a statement that the agency seeks proposals of alternative methods from the public and from State and local governments; (3) a description of the information on which the agency plans to rely in the rulemaking; and (4) a statement specifying where copies of the rulemaking file may be obtained. Allows an agency to adopt a rule before publishing notice, providing a period for public comment, or establishing a rulemaking file, when notice or hearing is not required by another statute, if: (1) it publishes its findings that compliance with such procedures before the rule becomes effective would be impracticable and contrary to the public interest; and (2) it completes such procedures as soon as practicable after the rule is promulgated. Requires an agency to publish a notice and allow a period for comment on any final rule which is substantially different from the original rule as proposed. Directs each agency to give interested persons at least 60 days to submit written comments on a proposed rule. Permits an agency to use any appropriate procedure to elicit full and representative public comment on the significant issues of a rulemaking. Requires an agency to provide an opportunity for oral presentations at informal public hearings in a rulemaking for a "major rule," as defined by this Act. Requires agencies to publish with each final rule a notice of its effective date and a statement of its basis and purpose, including: (1) a discussion of significant issues and alternative approaches raised by public comments; and (2) an explanation of how the agency's factual determinations are substantially supported in the rulemaking file. Prohibits an agency promulgating a rule from relying on any material not placed in the rulemaking file in time to afford an adequate period for public comment. Directs each agency to give interested persons the right to petition for an interpretation of, or exemption from, a rule. Requires an agency to respond promptly and in writing to such a petition. Requires that each agency maintain a public file of the paperwork, data, and comments pertaining to each rulemaking which shall constitute the rulemaking record for purposes of judicial review. Allows an agency to exclude from the file material exempted from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act, if the agency includes a summary of such material or a notice of the existence of such material. Prohibits an agency rule from substantially changing the requirement of any existing contract, agreement, or grant between a Federal agency and a State or local government for one year after the rule takes effect, unless the agency publishes a finding that delaying the rule's effect would be contrary to the public interest. Provides for the judicial review of agency compliance with rulemaking requirements under this Act. Requires each agency: (1) prior to publishing a rulemaking notice, to determine whether a proposed rule is a "major rule" and (2) to include an explanation of such determination in the notice. Authorizes the President or a selected officer to determine that a rule is a major rule within 30 days after publication of the rulemaking notice and to designate not more than 75 rules as major rules during any fiscal year. Requires an agency to issue, to enter into the rulemaking file, and to publish in summary form a preliminary rulemaking analysis of each proposed major rule, with specified exceptions. Provides 60 days for public comment on such analysis. Lists the contents of such analysis, including: (1) a description of quantifiable and nonquantifiable costs and benefits; (2) a description of reasonable alternatives; (3) a statement identifying the source of Federal funds, if any, to pay costs imposed on State and local governments; (4) a description of agency action to verify data; and (5) an explanation of why the rule chosen is more cost effective than the alternatives. Directs the agency to issue a final regulatory analysis upon publishing a final major rule, to place such analysis in the rulemaking file, and to summarize such analysis in the statement of the basis and purpose of the rule. Establishes guidelines for the evaluation and description of benefits and costs in the preparation of such analysis. Limits judicial review over: (1) the designation of a major rule; or (2) any regulatory analysis. Authorizes the President to establish procedures for agency compliance with the regulatory analysis and sunset review requirements under this Act and to monitor and enforce agency implementation of such procedures, except for rules issued by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Directs the President to report to Congress annually on agency compliance with regulatory analysis requirements. Requires each agency to publish for public comment a proposed schedule for the review of its existing major rules and other rules selected for review by the agency or the President. Directs each agency to publish a final schedule with its responses to public comments within one year of enactment of this Act. Requires each agency to review major rules within ten years after enactment of this Act, or within ten years after such a rule is promulgated, amended, or renewed, whichever is later. Directs each agency to publish a notice of its proposed action regarding a reviewed rule. Requires that the notice: (1) assess the costs and benefits of the rule; and (2) invite public proposals for modifications or alternatives. Requires an agency to follow normal rulemaking procedures when amending or rescinding a rule. Specifies procedures for renewing a rule without amendment. Provides for: (1) extension of the review period to not to exceed 15 years; (2) revision of the review schedule; and (3) expedited agency action if a review deadline is not met. Requires each agency to publish in the Federal Register, semiannually, an agenda of the rules the agency expects to propose, promulgate, renew, or repeal within the next twelve months, including a schedule of the agency actions pertaining to each rule. Directs the President to publish, semiannually, a Calendar of Federal Regulations, listing each of the major rules included in such agenda. Allows an agency to promulgate a major rule not listed in such agenda only if it publishes an explanation of why the rule was omitted. Requires each agency to include in the notice of a proposed rulemaking the date by which it intends to complete action or each major portion of action on the rule. Directs an agency that fails to complete action by such date and that expects a delay of more than 30 days to announce a new deadline for action. Directs the President to report to Congress annually on the regulatory activities of the Government. Requires that the report include estimates of the costs and benefits to each major sector of the economy of all major rules promulgated during the preceding year, included in the regulatory agenda for the preceding year, or scheduled for review. Directs a court reviewing an agency action to: (1) determine the authority or jurisdiction of the agency on the basis of the language of the authorizing statute or other evidence of legislative intent; (2) accord no presumption in favor of or against agency action, but to give an agency's interpretation of a statutory provision such weight as it warrants; and (3) determine whether the factual basis of an agency rule has substantial support in the rulemaking file. Declares that when proceedings for review of the same agency action are instituted in two or more courts of appeals within five days, the Administrative Office of the United States Courts shall select, by a system of random selection, the court in which the record shall be filed. Authorizes the courts to postpone the effective date of the agency action until after such selection is made. Amends the Federal Advisory Committee Act to exclude from the definition of "advisory committee" for purposes of such Act any committee which is composed wholly of elected State or local officials or their representatives. Grants Federal district courts original jurisdiction of any civil action or proceeding to resolve a controversy between two or more regulatory agencies not of the same State concerning jurisdiction to regulate a public utility, unless the courts of appeals have exclusive original jurisdiction to review actions of one of the regulatory agencies involved. States that a declaratory judgment in such a proceeding shall not be withheld: (1) on the ground that a controversy over matters other than jurisdiction to regulate may exist between the parties; (2) because of failure to exhaust administrative remedies; or (3) because of inconsistent provisions of other statutes providing for judicial review of agency action. Declares that any Federal or State agency may join or be joined as a party to such action and the district court may issue its processes without regard to territorial limitations. Establishes venue for such a proceeding. Prohibits the use of appropriated funds to pay the expenses of persons participating or intervening in agency proceedings, except as expressly authorized by statute. Authorizes each Federal agency to adopt as a Federal rule with respect to a State or locality any State or local rule which duplicates or is substantially equivalent to or more stringent than such Federal rule. Declares that any final agency rule, with specified exceptions including an emergency rule, shall be considered to be a recommendation to Congress and shall have no effect unless it is reviewed and not disapproved by Congress. Directs each agency to transmit each final rule to Congress on the day the rule is transmitted for publication to the Federal Register. Prohibits the rule from becoming effective if: (1) within 45 days of continuous session of Congress after the rule is received by Congress, either committee of the House or the Senate having primary legislative jurisdiction over it reports or is discharged from consideration of a resolution disapproving it; (2) within 30 days after such resolution is reported or discharged, either House adopts it; and (3) within 30 days after the adopted resolution is transmitted to the other House, such other House agrees to it. Permits a final rule to become effective at any time after either House rejects a resolution of disapproval. Authorizes an agency to issue and submit to Congress for review a recommended final rule relating to the same acts or practices as a disapproved rule. Sets forth expedited congressional procedures for the consideration of resolutions of disapproval. Declares that the provisions of this Act supercede any other provision of law requiring action by both Houses of Congress for congressional review and disapproval of agency rules, but not any other provisions requiring action by only one House. Amends the Government in the Sunshine Act to include the Chrysler Corporation Loan Guarantee Board as an agency subject to such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 14 April 1983
Expresses the sense of the Senate that armed forces on the border between Thailand and Kampuchea should refrain from actions that may endanger the refugees. Declares that Vietnam should halt armed attacks on civilians.
United States · United States Congress · 12 April 1983
Amends the Small Business Act to treat businesses owned by Indian tribes (including any Alaskan Native village or regional or village corporation) as socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses for purposes of the Small Business Administration's business development program.
United States · United States Congress · 12 April 1983
Requests the President to grant posthumous citizenship to William Penn, founder of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and his wife, Hannah Callowhill Penn.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1983
Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment and Adoption Reform Act Amendments of 1983 - Amends the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services, through the National Center on Child Abuse and Neglect, to include, in a study and investigation of the national incidence of child abuse and neglect, a determination of those incidents of child abuse and neglect which involve the denial of nutrition, medically indicated treatment, general care, or appropriate social services to infants at risk with life-threatening congenital impairments. Requires that the study's findings be submitted, with recommendations for administrative and legislative changes, to the Congress within two years after the effective date of this Act. Deletes outdated plan provisions. Directs the Secretary, in consultation with the Advisory Board on Child Abuse and Neglect, to provide technical assistance and training to States for development and implementation of procedures to be followed by appropriate agencies or individuals to insure that nutrition, medically indicated treatment, general care, and appropriate social services are provided to infants at risk with life-threatening congenital impairments. Requires that such procedures be in place throughout the State within two years after enactment of this Act, in order for a State to qualify for grants for child abuse and neglect prevention and treatment programs. Requires the establishment of procedures for any interested person to report to the appropriate authorities denial of such care or services. Extends through FY 1986 the authorization of appropriations under such Act for child abuse and neglect and sexual abuse of children prevention and treatment programs. Requires that a specified amount of such funds be used for grants to States for programs for prevention, identification, and treatment of sexual abuse of children. Directs the Advisory Board on Child Abuse and Neglect to assist the Secretary in coordinating adoption related activities of the Federal Government, including services to pregnant teenaged children considering adoption as a plan for their infants, services to couples experiencing infertility, adoption referral services for infants at risk with life-threatening congenital impairments, and services for children legally free for adoption and in need of adoptive homes. Makes technical and conforming amendments. Amends the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment and Adoption Reform Act of 1978 to include pregnancy counseling, which presents adoption as a positive alternative, among those quality standards for adoption services to be promoted by the Department of Health and Human Services. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) review all model adoption legislation and procedures developed or promulgated under such Act for the purpose of making appropriate changes to facilitate adoption opportunities for infants at risk with life-threatening congenital impairments; and (2) coordinate efforts to improve State legislation with national, State, and local child and family services, including organizations representative of minorities and adoptive families. Directs the Secretary, after consultation with other appropriate Federal departments and agencies, including the Bureau of the Census, to provide for the establishment and operation of a Federal adoption and foster care data-gathering and analysis system. Includes adoptive family groups and minority groups among those nonprofit organizations which may receive Federal contracts to provide technical assistance for adoption programs. Directs the Secretary to: (1) encourage involvement of corporations and small businesses in supporting adoption as a positive family-strengthening option, including the establishment of adoption benefit programs for employees who adopt children; and (2) continue to study the nature, scope, and effects of placement of children in adoptive homes by unlicensed and unregulated persons or agencies, including the legal status of surrogate parenting. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1985.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1983
International Telecommunications Act of 1983 - Title I: General - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to create a new title dealing with international telecommunications. Declares that it is U.S. policy to rely upon marketplace competition and the private sector to provide international telecommunications services, to reduce unnecessary regulations, and to encourage entry by new carriers into the international communications marketplace. Sets forth the U.S. policy to promote the deregulation of the resale or shared use of any international telecommunications service and to promote the interconnection of international telecommunications facilities based upon the cost of providing such facilities. Directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to deregulate international telecommunications services or carriers as competition develops, unless the deregulation may result in a significant adverse impact upon the national defense and security or emergency preparedness or upon the competitiveness of U.S. businesses with foreign competitors. Directs the FCC to publish a list of those international telecommunications services which are regulated by the FCC on the date of enactment of this title. Authorizes the FCC to classify or reclassify as a regulated international telecommunications service any service or facilities where the FCC determines that: (1) such service or facilities are not subject to effective competition; (2) Federal regulation of such services is required to accomplish the purposes of the new title; and (3) the benefits of such regulation outweigh the costs. Sets forth the factors the FCC shall consider in making such determination. Requires each international telecommunications service which is being provided under tariff on the date of enactment to continue to be provided under tariff for at least one year. Directs the FCC to determine which of such services must continue to be regulated. Directs the FCC to review biennially any determination that such a service must be regulated. Requires every telecommunications carrier to establish, upon reasonable request, interconnection of its regulated service or facilities with: (1) a telecommunications carrier; (2) a telecommunications facility or private or Government telecommunications system; and (3) any customer premises equipment which is owned or leased by a customer of such carrier. Prohibits the charges for such interconnection from being imposed in a discriminatory manner. Requires such charges to be based on the cost of the services or facilities provided for such interconnection. Requires that telecommunications carriers which provide both international telecommunications and domestic telecommunications treat the two operations as separate entities for purposes of interconnection requirements. Requires such carriers which provide interconnection between their domestic and international operations to provide other carriers with interconnection of equal quality and at the same rates. Sets forth the maximum penalty for violations of the interconnection requirements. Authorizes the FCC to vacate or modify any international telecommunications service contract between or among U.S. carriers which is entered into after enactment of this title and is filed with the FCC if the contract: (1) is not consistent with this Act; or (2) unjustly or unreasonably discriminates against any carrier. Authorizes the FCC to declare unlawful any international telecommunications service contract between U.S. and foreign carriers or any practice required by such a contract if the FCC finds that the contract or practice violates this Act. Authorizes the FCC, in consultation with affected U.S. carriers and appropriate Federal agencies, to assess U.S. carriers' proposals for the construction and utilization of international telecommunications facilities. Authorizes the FCC or any of the FCC Commissioners to meet, under specified conditions, to exchange information with representatives of foreign telecommunications entities. Declares that it is lawful for U.S. carriers to meet with foreign telecommunications carriers to plan international facilities. Does not exempt such carriers from the antitrust laws if an action taken by such carriers would be an antitrust violation when taken by a single carrier. Title II: International Telecommunications - International Telecommunications and Information Coordination Act of 1983 - Establishes, within the Executive Office of the President, the Office of the Special Representative for Telecommunications and Information. Provides for the appointment of the Special Representative and a Deputy Special Representative by the President, with the consent of the Senate. Requires the Special Representative to: (1) be the chief representative of the United States at international telecommunications and information conferences; (2) advise the President and Congress on international telecommunications and information policies and coordinate executive branch development of such policies; (3) report to Congress on such conferences and policies; and (4) chair the International Telecommunciations and Information Task Force. Requires the Deputy Special Representative to coordinate telecommunications and information policymaking in the executive branch as directed. Authorizes appropriations. Establishes for three years an International Telecommunications and Information Task Force (Task Force) to be the principal coordinating body for the development of U.S. telecommunications and information policies. Authorizes the President to extend the existence of the Task Force for another three years. Directs the Task Force to: (1) recommend to the Special Representative procedures for coordinating policies of all Federal agencies involving international telecommunications and information; (2) review all significant policy determinations and statements of Federal agencies relating to international telecommunications and information (except for the rulemaking and adjudicating provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act); and (3) study and report to Congress within 180 days on the feasibility and desirability of alternatives to the International Telecommunications Union. Directs the Task Force to make recommendations to appropriate Federal agencies, congressional committees, and the President in accordance with the findings of the review. Requires the Task Force to make recommendations and reports regularly to the President and Congress. Transfers the functions of the Departments of State and Commerce relating to international telecommunications and information to the Office of the Special Representative. Transfers certain presidential advisory functions of the Director of the International Communications Agency to the Task Force. Authorizes the Task Force to utilize the services, personnel, and facilities of other Federal agencies and to accept voluntary uncompensated services to carry out its functions under this Act. Directs the Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of State to designate personnel to serve as staff to the Task Force. Directs the Task Force to establish an Advisory Committee on International Telecommunications and Information to provide overall policy guidance to the Task Force. Requires the Task Force to consult with the Committee before approving any statement of new U.S. policy relating to international telecommunications and information. Requires the Task Force to adopt procedures for consulting with the Committee on a continuing and timely basis. Title III: Miscellaneous - States that the provisions of this Act shall apply only to the provision of international telecommunications services or facilities. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to collect information on the international economic competition facing U.S. carriers and telecommunications equipment suppliers and to report such information to Congress on a periodic basis. Amends the Communications Satellite Act of 1962 to declare that it is not the intent of Congress to preclude the creation of additional domestic and international communications satellite systems if such other systems will serve the public interest, convenience, and necessity. Repeals the power of the FCC to authorize stock offerings of the Communications Satellite Corporation (COMSAT). Allows COMSAT to be incorporated in jurisdictions other than the District of Columbia. Abolishes the position of presidentially appointed directors. Authorizes COMSAT to issue stock with or without par value. Authorizes any COMSAT stockholders of record to inspect and copy COMSAT's record of shareholders. Authorizes COMSAT to provide international services directly to the public, provided that the FCC may require that such common carrier services be provided by a fully separate corporate subsidiary of COMSAT upon determining that such action is required by the public interest, convenience, and necessity. Authorizes the FCC to permit the persons who will best serve the public interest to construct and operate satellite terminal stations. Directs the FCC to authorize users and entities other than authorized carriers to acquire channels in the communications satellite system directly from COMSAT whenever it will serve the public interest. Directs the President, through the Special Representative for Telecommunications and Information, to supervise and instruct COMSAT in its activities with foreign governments, international entities, and the International Telecommunications Satellite Organization as necessary to ensure that such activities are consistent with the national interest and U.S. foreign policy. Authorizes the FCC to issue instructions to COMSAT on regulatory matters within the FCC's jurisdiction. Gives precedence to presidential instructions that conflict with FCC instructions. Establishes within the Department of State an Assistant Secretary of State for Telecommunications Affairs to help formulate and implement a policy regarding foreign economic matters in telecommunications. Permits the President to establish a plan to ensure the availability, continuity, and prompt initiation or restoration of telecommunications services to meet national defense and emergency preparedness needs. Authorizes the President to request carriers to meet to assure the establishment and maintenance of networks of telecommunications services and facilities adequate for such needs. Directs the President to appoint an advisory council to study Federal telecommunications management for national security and emergency preparedness to ensure that the United States shall have a technologically advanced and economically viable telecommunications industry for the purposes of national defense and economic development.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1983
Disapproves specified regulations proposed by the Federal Election Commission pertaining to contributions and activities by corporations and labor organizations which were transmitted to the Senate on March 1, 1983.
United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1983
Authorizes the Smithsonian Institution to purchase land in Santa Cruz County, Arizona, for the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1983
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President should expeditiously recommend to Congress the budgetary steps necessary to build defensive weapons for deployment in space capable of destroying ballistic missiles.
United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1983
National Archives and Records Administration Act of 1983 - Establishes the National Archives and Records Administration as an independent establishment in the executive branch. Requires the Administration to be directed by the Archivist of the United States who shall be appointed by the President for a ten-year term. Directs the Archivist to appoint a Deputy Archivist. Sets forth the administrative duties and authority of the Archivist. Requires the Archivist to submit to Congress an annual report concerning the administration of functions of the Archivist and the Administration. Transfers to the Administration and the Archivist the functions, duties, and authority of the General Services Administration (GSA) and its Administrator, respectively, concerning: (1) congressional printing and binding; (2) the Federal Register and the Code of Federal Regulations; (3) the distribution and sale of public documents; (4) archival administration; (5) presidential records; (6) the National Archives Trust Fund Board; (7) the National Historical Publications Commission; (8) records management; (9) the disposal of records; (10) official territorial papers; (11) Indian records placed with the Oklahoma Historical Society; (12) public laws, Constitutional amendments, and the United States Statutes at Large; and (13) electoral credentials and certificates. Transfers to the Administration the National Archives and Records Service and the office of Office Information Services of the Office of Information Resources Automated Data and Management (presently within GSA).
United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1983
Title I: Amendments to Title 18, United States Code (18 U.S.C. 921-928) - Amends the Gun Control Act of 1968 to redefine: (1) "manufacturer" to mean any person engaged in the "business of manufacturing" (instead of "manufacture" of) firearms or ammunition; and (2) "dealer" to exclude dealers in ammunition. Adds a new definition "engaged in the business" with respect to manufacturers, dealers, and importers. Defines as a manufacturer, dealer, or importer of firearms a person who manufacturers or deals in a regular course of trade or business with the principal objective of livelihood and profit. Excludes as dealers persons making occasional sales or repairs of firearms. Eliminates certain activities involving ammunition from the coverage of the current prohibitions. Makes it unlawful for any person to transfer any firearm to a person who does not reside in the same State, if the transferor has reasonable cause to believe that acquisition of the firearm by such person would violate any State or local law or ordinance. Requires such transfer to be face to face. Presumes a licensee to have actual knowledge of the published laws of the State. Revises the current prohibition against certain classes of persons transporting a firearm or ammunition in interstate commerce to extend such prohibition to possession or receipt in commerce or affecting commerce of any firearm or ammunition. Includes as additional categories illegal aliens, dishonorably discharged members of the Armed Forces, and U.S. citizens who renounce their citizenship. Excludes ammunition dealers from the current licensing requirements. Declares that a licensed dealer's personal collection of firearms shall not be subject to recordkeeping requirements, under specific circumstances. Permits the Secretary of the Treasury to revoke a license only where the holder "willfully" violates a provision of the Act. Bars the Secretary from denying or revoking a license on the basis of violations which are alleged in criminal proceedings instituted against a licensee, where such individual is not convicted of such charges. Allows the government to voluntarily dismiss criminal charges prior to trial and still proceed with revocation. Imposes as a condition for the inspection or examination of records, documents, firearms, or ammunition that the Secretary has reasonable cause to believe that a violation has occurred and that evidence may be found on the premises. Requires a warrant be issued for such search. Restricts the firearms information obtained from licensees which the Secretary may make available to State or local governments. Establishes a limited recordkeeping requirement for firearms collectors. Establishes a "willful" scienter (knowledge) requirement with respect to general violations of the Act. Revises the current offense of using or carrying a firearm during commission of a Federal felony to: (1) include use of a destructive device; (2) delete the act of "carrying" a firearm to commit a felony; and (3) limit such offense to felonies over which the Federal courts have exclusive jurisdiction. Retains the current penalty (one to ten years) for first offenses. Increases the penalty for second or subsequent offenses to five to 25 years imprisonment (currently, two to 25 years). Extends to first offenders the requirement, currently applicable only to second offenders, that the court not suspend any sentence or grant probation. Prohibits the granting of parole to first and subsequent offenders. Declares that no person shall be subject to the additional, mandatory penalties if use of the firearm or destructive device was to protect persons or property. Amends the forfeiture provision to subject to seizure any firearm or ammunition "involved in or used" in any violation of the Gun Control Act (instead of "involved in or used or intended to be used"). Directs the court to award attorney fees to the prevailing party (other than the United States) in a proceeding for the return of seized firearms or ammunition. Requires the court to award such fees in any other action upon a finding that the action was without foundation or was initiated in bad faith. Limits seizure to firearms individually identified as involved in the violation. Revises the current procedure allowing persons who have been convicted of a crime to apply to the Secretary for relief from the firearms prohibitions. Permits any person prohibited from possessing, shipping, transporting, or receiving firearms or ammunition to apply for relief. Requires, instead of permits, the Secretary to grant release, unless the applicant will be likely to act in a manner dangerous to public safety. Permits any person who is denied relief to seek de novo judicial review in Federal court. Imposes on the applicant the burden of proof. Makes the authority of the Secretary to permit importation of certain types of firearms and ammunition nondiscretionary. Extends the types of sporting firearms which may be imported. Amends the rulemaking authority of the Secretary to provide that no regulation may require the transfer of records required under this Act to a facility owned, managed, or controlled by the United States or any State or the establishment of any system of registration of firearms, firearms owners, or firearms transactions. Requires a 90-day public comment period for proposed regulations (no period is currently specified). Prohibits the Secretary from prescribing regulations which require purchasers of black powder to complete affidavits or forms attesting to their exemption from certain provisions of the Federal criminal code. Declares any law or regulation promulgated by any State prohibiting the transfer of an unloaded and not readily accessible firearm or ammunition null and void. Title II: Amendments to Title VII of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 - Repeals title VII of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act (relating to the receipt, possession, or transportation of firearms by felons, veterans dishonorably discharged, mental incompetents, illegal aliens, and persons renouncing their United States citizenship).
United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1983
Directs the Secretaries of Agriculture for national forest lands and of the Interior for other public lands to terminate, at the purchaser's request: (1) specified quantities of estimated and cumulative timber volume as specified in such purchaser's contract bid prior to January 1, 1982; and (2) other specified contracts for estimated timber volumes. Requires purchasers to pay for the costs incurred by the appropriate Secretary in terminating such contracts and for re-offering the terminated timber for resale. Specifies the maximum amount to be paid per terminated contract. Authorizes the purchaser to transfer, retain or assign timber sale appraisal allowances according to stated guidelines. Directs the Secretaries of Agriculture and of the Interior to adjust, without penalty, certain contract termination dates for a specified period, upon the purchaser's written request. Declares that contracts with termination dates adjusted for four years or more shall require: (1) payment by the purchaser according to a specified schedule; or (2) removal of a certain percentage of estimated timber volume by a certain date. Assures specified purchasers continued eligibility to bid on the resale of timber included in a terminated contract. Establishes guidelines for termination, payment schedules, bidding, and timber resales. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to permit the transfer of unused purchaser credit for road construction on specified contracts. Directs the Secretary to treat credit earned on specified contracts as transferable earned purchaser credit. Emergency National Forest Productivity Act of 1983 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a special program to remove dead or diseased timber on national forest system lands. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into contracts, or conduct the work within the Department of Agriculture, under certain conditions. Authorizes appropriations. Authorizes the Secretary to use regular national forest system and construction accounts subject to approval by the congressional appropriations committees.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1983
Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit the Federal Communications Commission from restricting the hours of operation or reducing the operating power of any AM broadcast station if: (1) such restriction or reduction would prevent the station from operating at full daytime power from two hours before sunrise until two hours after sunset; and (2) operation during such period would not interfere with the protected signal of an existing station. Prohibits the Commission from denying an application for a license to operate a new AM station or an application to expand the hours of operation of an existing station solely on the grounds that: (1) the area has adequate broadcasting service; or (2) an FM channel is available for the area. Prohibits the Commission from placing an applicant for a station license or construction permit at a disadvantage because that applicant is licensed to operate a station with restricted hours in the area if such applicant certifies that it will relinquish the restricted license if its application is approved. Exempts any application to alter the hours of operation of a standard broadcast station from public notice and comment requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1983
Amends the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act and the Walsh-Healey Act to require overtime compensation only for hours of employment in excess of 40 hours in a workweek for employees of Federal Government contractors or subcontractors.
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1983
Soviet-Eastern European Research and Training Act of 1983 - Establishes the Soviet-Eastern European Research and Training Fund in the Treasury. Authorizes appropriations for the Fund. Establishes the Soviet-Eastern European Studies Oversight Committee. Sets forth the membership of the Committee. Requires that interest on obligations held in the Fund be available upon approval of the Committee for payments to the National Council for Soviet and East European Research (the Council), the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars of the Smithsonian Institution (the Center), the International Research and Exchanges Board (the Board), and any other organization to carry out research and training in Soviet and Eastern European studies. Sets forth specific uses for such payments. Requires the National Council, the Center, and the Board to submit an application to the Committee each fiscal year. Authorizes any other organization to submit an application to the Committee. Sets forth requirements for such applications. Requires the Committee to approve expeditiously any application which meets such requirements. Provides that it shall be the duty of the Secretary of the Treasury to invest portions of the Fund not required for current withdrawal (in the determination of the Committee). Sets forth investment requirements for the Fund. Requires the Oversight Committee to prepare and submit a specified annual report to the President and to Congress concerning the Fund. Requires that the provisions of this Act terminate ten years after enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1983
Ocean and Coastal Resources Management Act - Establishes in the Treasury an Ocean and Coastal Resources Management Fund to provide States and territories with ocean and coastal management block grants through FY 1989. Provides money for such Fund from a percentage of Outer Continental Shelf oil and gas revenues. Requires an applicant State to report to the Secretary of Commerce, specifying projects and allocations. Requires public review of such report. Sets minimum State and territory grant amounts, with additional allocations based on: (1) coastal population; (2) shoreline; (3) oil or gas production; (4) energy facilities; and (5) bonus revenues. Requires grants to be used for: (1) carrying out the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972; (2) coastal energy impact projects; (3) projects under the Anadromous Fish Conservation Act and the Commercial Fisheries Research and Development Act; (4) local jurisdictions; and (5) research, marine resources, and interstate programs. Requires an annual grant assessment and audit.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1983
Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to prohibit the Bank from extending credit to establish or enhance the capacity of any country other than the United States to produce a commodity for export if: (1) such commodity is or is likely to be surplus on the world market; and (2) the resulting productive capacity will substantially injure U.S. producers of the same, similar, or competing commodity.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1983
Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to prohibit the furnishing of assistance under such Act to establish or enhance the capacity of any foreign country to produce a commodity for export if: (1) the commodity is in surplus or is likely to be in surplus on the world market at the time the resulting productive capactiy is expected to become operative; and (2) such assistance will cause substantial injury to U.S. producers of the same, similar, or competing commodity (surplus competing commodities). Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to instruct the U.S. executive directors of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, International Development Association, International Monetary Fund, International Finance Corporation, Inter-American Development Bank, Asian Development Bank, and the African Development Bank to oppose assistance by these institutions (using any funds made available under U.S. law) to establish or enhance the capacity of any country to produce surplus competing commodities. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to report to Congress on all applications for assistance which have been filed with the aforementioned institutions at 30-day intervals beginning 30 days after the enactment of this Act.
![Official portrait of Sen. Goldwater, Barry [R-AZ]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/g000267_200.jpg)