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Official portrait of Sen. Gorton, Slade [R-WA]

Sen. Gorton, Slade [R-WA]

United States · Official source

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2,495 records where Sen. Gorton, Slade [R-WA] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Bill· SS. 560 (98th)referred

Private Satellite Launching Authorization Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1983

Private Satellite Launching Authorization Act of 1983 - Authorizes the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to issue a license for launching a space object. Sets forth the conditions for issuing a license. Makes such license nontransferable. Prohibits the launching of private space objects without such a license. Directs the Administrator to establish guidelines for the design and construction of space launch vehicles in the interest of public safety. Directs the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to give technical assistance. Directs the Administrator of the FAA to establish requirements for liability insurance to be carried by any licensee. Permits the Administrator to suspend or revoke a license for failure to comply with applicable regulations. Excludes from this Act space objects launched by or on behalf of the United States Government.

Bill· SS. 555 (98th)open

Law Enforcement Officers Protection Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1983

Law Enforcement Officers Protection Act of 1983 - Establishes criminal penalties applicable to licensees under the Gun Control Act of 1968 who import, manufacture, or sell a "restricted handgun bullet," except as authorized by the Secretary of the Treasury. Establishes additional criminal penalties, including a mandatory minimum sentence of one year imprisonment, for: (1) using a restricted handgun bullet to commit a Federal felony; or (2) carrying a restricted handgun bullet unlawfully during commission of a Federal felony.

Bill· SS. 504 (98th)open

Shipping Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1983

Shipping Act of 1983 - Makes this Act applicable to agreements by or among ocean common carriers to: (1) discuss, fix, and regulate rates, accommodations, and other conditions of service; (2) pool or apportion traffic, revenues, net losses, or net profits; (3) allot ports or regulate the number and character of sailings between ports; (4) limit or regulate the volume or character of cargo or passenger traffic; (5) engage in exclusive, preferential, or cooperative working arrangements among themselves or marine terminal operators or non-vessel-operating common carriers; (6) control, regulate, or prevent competition in international ocean transportation; and (7) consult and confer with shippers and shippers' councils regarding general rate levels, charges, classifications, rules, practices, or services. Makes this Act applicable to agreements among marine terminal operators, and among such operators and ocean common carriers to: (1) discuss, fix, and regulate rates and other conditions of service; (2) pool or apportion earnings, losses, or traffic; and (3) engage in exclusive, preferential, or cooperative working arrangements. Allows shippers to establish shippers' councils to: (1) mutually consult and exchange information or views regarding rates, charges, classifications, rules, practices, or services; (2) agree upon common positions; (3) consult and confer with ocean common carriers or conferences regarding rate levels, charges, classifications, rules, practices, or services; and (4) in the case of a small shipper, combine cargo with another small shipper to obtain time/volume rates and service contracts with ocean common carriers. Requires that a copy of every applicable agreement be filed with the Federal Maritime Commission, except transportion performance agreements within or between foreign countries. Sets forth requirements for contents of conference agreements (including conferences utilizing loyalty contracts), interconference agreements, shippers' council agreements, and assessment agreements. Describes criteria by which the Commission shall suspend, cancel, or modify such agreements. Authorizes ocean common carriers or conferences engaged in foreign commerce to use loyalty contracts according to specified requirements. Exempts certain agreements, contracts, and activities from the antitrust laws. Directs ocean common carriers and conferences to file with the Commission, and keep open to public inspection, tariffs showing all rates between all points on each carrier's routes. Sets forth procedures for rate changes and refunds of rate charges. Authorizes the use of time/volume rates. Authorizes ocean common carriers or conferences to enter into service contracts with individual shippers or with a shippers council. Prohibits a controlled carrier from maintaining rates in its tariffs that are below a level that is just and reasonable. Describes standards against which such rates shall be disapproved. Provides for Presidential review of any order of suspension or final order of disapproval of rates of a controlled carrier. Exempts specified types of foreign carriers from the provisions of this Act. Requires that ocean freight forwarders be licensed by the Commission. Sets forth circumstances under which ocean freight forwarders may be compensated by common carriers. Sets forth prohibited acts for common carriers, conferences, ocean freight forwarders, and marine terminal operators. Prohibits specified concerted actions. Directs the Commission, after notice and hearing, to suspend the tariffs of carriers of national lines of foreign governments, if the Commission finds that actions of such carriers or foreign governments have unduly impaired access of ships documented under United States flag to ocean trades between foreign ports. Describes procedures for the investigation and adjudication of complaints alleging a violation of this Act. Sets forth civil penalties for such violations. Declares that orders of the Commission relating to any violation of this Act shall remain in effect for the period of time specified in such order unless suspended, modified, or set aside by the Commission or a court of competent jurisdiction. Authorizes the Commission or the injured party to seek injunctive relief in the appropriate United States district court for the enforcement of Commission orders. Authorizes the Commission to require reports and certificates from persons or entities governed by provisions of this Act. Permits the Commission to exempt any specified activity or class of agreements from provisions of this Act. Directs the Comptroller General to submit to Congress, not later than two years after the effective date of this Act, a comprehensive study of, and recommendations concerning, the regulation of international ocean shipping by common carriers. Sets forth areas that such study shall specifically address.

Bill· SS. 532 (98th)open

Public Investment Incentive Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1983

Public Investment Incentive Act of 1983 - Title I: General Provisions - Sets forth the purposes and provides definitions for this Act. Title II: Capitalization of State Infrastructure Banks - Federal-State Infrastructure Partnership Program Act - Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury, under certain conditions, to allocate specified amounts to any State for the capitalization of a State Infrastructure Bank. Requires that such amounts be used only for the establishment, expansion, and maintenance of a State capital public investment loan fund. Directs the National Infrastructure Council to determine the apportionment of such funds to such Banks or comparable financing mechanisms. Sets forth the powers of such Banks or comparable financing mechanisms. Requires a State to enter into an agreement with the Secretary in order to receive funds under this title. Sets forth the provisions of such agreements (including the requirement to establish a public capital investment revolving fund). Requires amounts contributed under this Act to be available for States to: (1) make loans to governmental units based on specified interest rates and repayment requirements; and (2) blend with other State or local units to reduce market interest rates for capital infrastructure investments. Prohibits such amounts from being used for such Bank's administrative expenses. Declares that such amounts provided to the States will be audited annually and a report will be provided to the Secretary. Amends the Clean Water Act to authorize the use of sums allotted to States for FY 1984 through 1986 for loans to municipalities for wastewater treatment works. Provides requirements for such loans. Requires a State making such loans to submit an annual summary of such loan activity to the Environmental Protection Agency. Declares that nothing in this Act shall alter the requirements of: (1) the National Environmental Policy Act; (2) the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act; (3) the Endangered Species Act; or (4) title III of the Clean Water Act. Requires municipal projects receiving loans under this Act to incorporate the best available technique for the conservation of water. Title III: National Infrastructure Council - National Infrastructure Council Act - Establishes the National Infrastructure Council. Requires that the Council be governed by a specified Board of Directors. States that the function of the Council is to administer this Act. Requires the Council to ensure that States establishing a Bank under this Act follow acceptable accounting procedures for Federal audits and reviews. Authorizes the Council to provide technical assistance, informational, and educational activities to States and local municipalities to meet public capital investment needs. Authorizes the Board of Directors to create a staff, with an Executive Director, and to request appropriations for its administration and activities. Lists the specific responsibilities of the Council. Requires the Council to transmit an annual report of its activities to Congress. Lists the requirements of such reports. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· SS. 501 (98th)referred

Sex Discrimination in the United States Code Reform Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 16 February 1983

Title I: Armed Forces, Soldiers' Home, Coast Guard, Lighthouse Service, and Merchant Marine - Amends Federal laws dealing with the Army, the Navy, the Air Force, and the Coast Guard to eliminate gender-based distinctions. Title II: Elimination of Gender-Based Distinctions Under the Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Program, Railroad Retirement and the Work Incentive Program - Eliminates gender-based distinctions in the social security and railroad retirement programs. Title III: Amendments to United States Code - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act, the Walsh-Healey Act, the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, the Federal Criminal Code and other Acts dealing with Indian affairs, transportation, public lands and provisions relating to Saint Elizabeth Hospital and contract law to eliminate gender-based distinctions. Title IV: Effective Date - Sets forth the effective date for the provisions of this Act.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 66 (98th)open

A resolution to establish regulations to implement television and radio coverage of proceedings of the Senate.

United States · United States Congress · 16 February 1983

Directs that proceedings in the Senate Chamber be broadcast by radio and television: (1) in accordance with provisions of this resolution; (2) continuously when the Senate is in session (except when a closed door meeting is ordered); and (3) subject to certain provisions of the Standing Rules of the Senate pertaining to the Senate gallery. Requires that broadcasts be supervised and operated by the Senate and made available on a live basis and free of charge to specified entities. Requires the television broadcasts to follow the Presiding Officer and Senators who are recognized to speak. Directs the Architect of the Capitol to provide for the construction and acquisition of broadcasting facilities and equipment. Sets forth duties of the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper of the Senate with respect to the operation and maintenance of such equipment and the disposition of audio and video tape recordings. Directs the Librarian of Congress and the Archivist of the United States to receive, store, and make such recordings available to the public at no cost for viewing or listening on the premises. Authorizes the charging of a fee equal to the cost involved through distribution of taped copies. Provides for a test period of Senate broadcasting equipment. Prohibits the use of tape duplications of broadcast coverage for political or commercial purposes. Requires that changes in regulations made by this resolution be made only by Senate resolution. Authorizes expenditures, limited to a specified amount, to carry out this resolution.

Law· SS. 450 (98th)enacted

Mail Order Consumer Protection Amendments of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1983

Mail Order Consumer Protection Amendments of 1983 - Authorizes the United States Postal Service to issue an order requiring any person to cease and desist from conducting a lottery or scheme for obtaining money or property by false representations through the mail. Authorizes the Postmaster General, in conducting an investigation to determine whether a person is engaged in such prohibited activity, to tender the price requested for an article or service offered through the mail. Declares that failure to provide an article or service after the price is tendered by the Postal Service may be considered in a hearing to determine if there is probable cause to believe that a prohibited activity has occurred. Sets forth provisions governing the conduct of a person tendering an offer on behalf of the Postal Service. Declares that mailing an advertisement promoting the sale of a publication or a solicitation to purchase, or a purchase order for, such a publication is not prohibited if: (1) the advertisement is not false or misleading and contains no material misrepresentations of fact; (2) the advertisement discloses the source of any statements derived from or about the publication; and (3) neither the advertisement nor the publication is designed to promote the sale of another product as part of a commercial scheme. Establishes a civil penalty to be assessed against any person who: (1) attempts to evade an order directing a postmaster to return mail addressed to such person or prohibiting a postmaster from paying a money order from, or to, such person; (2) fails to comply with a cease and desist order; or (3) assists any person to evade or not to comply with any such order. Authorizes the Postal Service to commence a civil action in the appropriate U.S. district court to enforce such a penalty. Requires the Postmaster General to submit semiannual reports on the investigative activities of the Postal Service to the Board of Governors of the Postal Service. Directs the Board to transmit such reports, upon approval, to Congress. Directs the Postmaster General to conduct and report to Congress on a program to educate consumers concerning schemes involving false representations through the mail.

Bill· SS. 428 (98th)open

Economically Strategic Industrial Research and Development Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1983

Economically Strategic Industrial Research and Development Act - Requires the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy to enter into an agreement with both the National Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Engineering to conduct a study which identifies economically strategic technologies and plans for their optimal development. Directs the Academies to: (1) solicit views of private industry and examine evidence of current industrial initiatives; (2) assess the economic benefit to be gained from each technology; (3) assess government efforts in technological development; (4) summarize existing and projected levels of research and development activity by private industry for each technology; (5) determine current levels of research and development by foreign nations and their competitive strategies; and (6) consider the potential and feasibility of U.S. industry developing a competitive posture in each technology. Directs the Academy to develop a technology development program for each technology designated as economically strategic and to establish an advisory committee to make recommendations for each such program. Sets forth the desired recommendations, including: (1) participants for each program; (2) program responsibilities; (3) levels of effort and financial commitment for each program and participant; and (4) a timetable. Requires a committee set up under the agreement to make interim and annual reports to the President and the appropriate congressional committees on each program and to make a final report within three years. Authorizes appropriations.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 57 (98th)reported

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the Government of the United States and the Government of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics should adhere to the principle of a mutual guaranteed build-down of nuclear forces.

United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1983

Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President should propose to the Soviet Union immediate adherence by both countries to the principle of a guaranteed strategic build-down of nuclear forces, subject to agreed upon procedures of verification and compliance.

Law· SS. 373 (98th)enacted

Arctic Research and Policy Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 1 February 1983

Arctic Research and Policy Act of 1982 - Establishes the Arctic Science Policy Council to: (1) facilitate cooperation between the Federal Government and State and local governments with respect to Arctic research; (2) promote cooperative Arctic research programs with other nations; (3) develop and supervise an integrated national Arctic science policy; and (4) cooperate with the Governor and agencies of Alaska in formulating Arctic science policy. Requires the Council to: (1) appoint the members of an Arctic Research Commission; (2) publish, annually, a statement of goals and objectives of Arctic research to guide such Commission; and (3) submit an annual report on its activities to Congress. Requires Federal agencies to cooperate with the Council and furnish any nonproprietary information relating to Arctic research that the Council may request. Establishes the Arctic Research Commission. Directs the Commission to: (1) survey Arctic research conducted by Federal, State, and local agencies and public and private institutions to determine priorities and make recommendations for future research; (2) establish a data collection and retrieval center for Arctic research; (3) promulgate guidelines for the use and dissemination of Arctic research information; (4) consult with the Council and make grants for Arctic research; (5) transmit, annually, a report on its activities, with recommendations on future Arctic research policy, to the Council; (6) submit to Congress and the State legislature of Alaska a report making recommendations on the continued operation of Government-operated laboratory facilities conducting Arctic research; and (7) cooperate with the Governor and agencies of Alaska with respect to Arctic research and management of Arctic scientific and technological data. Authorizes the State of Alaska to elect whether or not it will participate in Council and Commission activities. Provides that the failure of Alaska, in any fiscal year, to contribute to the Arctic Research Fund an amount equal to one quarter of the U.S. appropriation to such Fund for the preceding fiscal year shall constitute an election not to participate. Modifies Council and Commission membership requirements if Alaska elects not to participate. Creates the Arctic Research Fund to support the activities of the Council and the Commission. Requires such Fund to consist of amounts appropriated by the United States and contributed by Alaska and private sources. Authorizes appropriations for such Fund.

Bill· SS. 372 (98th)open

Fair Insurance Practices Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 February 1983

Fair Insurance Practices Act - Prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in the consideration of applications for, or the granting of, insurance policies and the terms of such policies. Specifies prohibited acts. Grants State and local authorities the primary authority to enforce any State or local laws prohibiting such discriminatory action. Allows an aggrieved individual to institute a civil suit in U.S. district court if the State authority fails to take diligent action on a complaint. Authorizes the U.S. Attorney General to bring a civil action in U.S. district court whenever the Attorney General has reasonable cause to believe that any person is engaged in a pattern or practice of such discrimination. Authorizes the court to provide judicial relief when a violation has occurred.

Bill· SS. 247 (98th)open

A bill granting the consent of Congress to the Northwest Interstate Compact on Low-level Radioactive Waste Management.

United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1983

Interstate Compact - Grants congressional approval to the Northwest Interstate Compact on Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management, which provides for cooperation among the States of Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming in the management of low-level radioactive waste on a continuing basis.

Law· SS. 216 (98th)enacted

An act to amend title 18 of the United States Code to prohibit certain tampering with consumer products, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1983

Federal Anti-Tampering Act - Amends the Federal criminal code to make it a Federal offense to maliciously cause or attempt to cause injury or death to any person, or injury to any business' reputation, by adulterating a food, drug, cosmetic or other product. Provides for a prison term of up to 20 years and a fine of up to $20,000 if personal injury results, or a prison term of up to life if death results. Establishes a separate offense, with similar penalties, for any person who willfully or maliciously conveys false information concerning an attempt at such adulteration, if injury, fear of injury or death results, or if a governmental or commercial recall occurs.

Law· SS. 272 (98th)enacted

A bill to improve small business access to Federal procurement information.

United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1983

Amends the Small Business Act to eliminate from the exceptions to the requirement that notice of Government procurement actions be published in the Commerce Business Daily those procurement actions which: (1) involve perishable subsistence supplies; (2) are of such emergency that the Government would be seriously injured if bids were made more than 15 days after the invitation to bid was issued; (3) are made by an order placed under an existing contract; (4) are for personal or professional services; or (5) are for services from educational institutions. Prohibits procuring activities, when required to publish notice of procurement actions, from: (1) issuing a solicitation for a procurement action until 15 days after publication of such a notice; (2) foreclosing competition under a procurement order until 30 days after the issuance of the solicitation or, in the case of orders under a basic agreement, basic ordering agreement, or similar arrangement, after publication of intent to place the order; or (3) commencing negotiations for the award of a sole source contract until 30 days after the publication of a notice of intent to contract. Exempts from compliance with such time periods procurement actions which: (1) are made by an order placed under an existing contract; (2) are of such emergency that the Government would be seriously injured if such time periods were complied with; or (3) involve perishable subsistence supplies. Prohibits a procuring activity from entering into negotiations for the award of a sole source contract for more than $100,000 unless: (1) the head of the activity has approved the proposal for such negotiation; and (2) the activity has considered all responses to the notice of the procurement action. Provides for the application of this Act to the Tennessee Valley Authority only to the extent it deems practicable.

Bill· SS. 255 (98th)open

A bill to amend the Uniform Time Act of 1966 to provide that daylight savings time shall begin each year on the last Sunday in March rather than the last Sunday in April and to require a study of the effects of this Act by the Secretary of Transportation.

United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1983

Amends the Uniform Time Act of 1966 to extend daylight saving time from the last Sunday in March rather than the last Sunday in April. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to report to Congress within two years on the effects of this extension.

Bill· SS. 269 (98th)open

A bill to provide for the disposal of silver from the National Defense Stockpile through the issuance of silver coins.

United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1983

Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue coins of the United States in two specified series in quantities necessary to meet public demand. Directs the Secretary to sell such coins directly to the public and to numismatic coin dealers and retailers for resale to the public at not less than the fair market value of their silver content on the day before the sale, plus the costs of minting, distributing, promoting, and marketing the coins. Requires deposit of the net proceeds of such sales in the National Defense Stockpile Transaction Fund after the deduction of costs incurred by the Secretary. Limits the aggregate amount of silver in the National Defense Stockpile which may be used to mint the two specified coin series. Declares that disposals of silver from the National Defense Stockpile shall be conducted during calendar years 1984, 1985 and 1986.

Bill· SS. 248 (98th)open

National Mathematics and Science Excellence in Education Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1983

National Mathematics and Science Excellence in Education Act of 1983 - Title I: Science and Mathematics Education Merit Scholarships and Teaching Awards - Congressional Science and Mathematics Education Merit Scholarships and Teaching Awards Act - Authorizes the National Science Foundation to award scholarships to individuals who demonstrate outstanding potential for, and who plan to pursue, careers in teaching mathematics or science in elementary or secondary schools. Limits the period of such a scholarship to two academic years at any institution of higher education offering educational activities designed to prepare individuals for such careers. Authorizes the Foundation, after consultation with the Director of the Office of Science and Technology, to establish criteria for the selection of merit scholars. Limits the number of scholars selected to ten individuals from each State and five individuals from each congressional district in each State (and ten individuals in the case of the District of Columbia and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico). Requires each merit scholarship recipient to agree to pursue such a teaching career for at least three years upon completion of the training for which the scholarship was awarded. Requires the Director of the Foundation to submit the names of the individuals selected to the appropriate State Commission on Excellence in Mathematics and Science established under title II of this Act for review and approval. Limits merit scholarship stipends to $2,500 for each academic year of study. Conditions scholarship payment upon the student's maintaining satisfactory proficiency and full-time study. Authorizes the Foundation to require reports on student progress. Authorizes the Foundation to make experienced mathematics and science teacher awards for elementary and secondary school teachers. Sets such awards at $5,000 for those who have taught for at least five years and $10,000 for those who have taught at least ten years. Limits such awards to two $5,000 and two $10,000 awards for each State (and for the District of Columbia and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico), and one $5,000 and one $10,000 award for each congressional district in each State. Provides for an awards ceremony for merit scholarships and experienced teacher awards at a place in each State convenient to the individuals selected. Requires, to the extent possible, that the award be made by the appropriate Members of Congress. Sets a yearly deadline for selection and awards. Sets forth administrative provisions. Requires the Foundation to report annually to the President and the Congress on its operations under this title. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 through 1987. Title II: State Commissions on Excellence in Mathematics and Science - Requires any State which desires to receive a block grant for the improvement of education in mathematics and science under the Education Consolidation and Improvement Act of 1981 to establish a State Commission on Excellence in Mathematics and Science. Requires that the State Commission be appointed by the State Board of Education (or the Governor, if there is no Board) and approved by the Foundation. Sets forth the composition of the State Commission's membership. Permits the State Board to designate an existing State agency which is in substantial compliance with such membership requirements to be the State Commission for a specified interim period. Sets forth the functions of each State Commission. Directs the Secretary of Education and the Director of the Foundation to: (1) convene an annual conference to coordinate the activities of each State Commission; and (2) report to the Congress on the activities of each National Conference, with appropriate recommendations. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 through 1987. Requires the Director of the Foundation to allot a specified amount of such funds to each State. Title III: Block Grant for the Improvement of Education in Mathematics and Science - Amends the Education Consolidation and Improvement Act of 1981 to establish a new block grant program for the improvement of education in mathematics and science. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 through 1987. Sets forth formulas for allotment of such funds to: (1) U.S. territories and possessions; (2) Indian schools; (3) the Secretary's discretionary funds; and (4) States, including the District of Columbia and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, based on relative school-age population. Provides for in-State allocations of State allotments, with no more than 25 percent to the State educational agency (SEA) for State level programs and at least 75 percent to local educational agencies (LEAs) according to relative enrollments in public and nonpublic schools within the LEA school districts, adjusted to provide higher per pupil allocations to LEAs with the greatest numbers or percentages of children whose education imposes a higher than average cost per child (such as children from low-income families, in economically depressed areas, and in sparsely populated areas). Directs the Secretary to approve criteria suggested by the SEA for adjusting such allocations if an equitable distribution would be produced. Directs each SEA, to the extent practicable, to use specified criteria. Directs the SEA to distribute such allocations to LEAs which have submitted applications. Sets forth authorized activities, to be consistent with goals and priorities established by State Commissions, for which SEAs and LEAs may use such block grant funds. Sets forth requirements for State and local applications for such funds. Provides for participation of children enrolled in private schools in such block grant program. Sets forth authorized uses of the Secretary's discretionary funds under such block grant program.

Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 6 (98th)open

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of the Congress that the Federal government should maintain current efforts in Federal nutrition programs to prevent increases in domestic hunger.

United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1983

Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) Federal nutrition programs, including the food stamp, child nutrition, and elderly feeding programs, should be protected from budget cuts; (2) the WIC (supplemental food program for women, infants, and children) should continue to be fully funded; and (3) the Federal Government should maintain primary responsibility for nutrition programs.

Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 5 (98th)referred

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of the Congress that the Railroad Retirement Board and representatives of railroad employees and carriers should explore new methods of financing the railroad retirement program.

United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1983

Expresses the sense of Congress that the Railroad Retirement Board and representatives of railroad employees and carriers should jointly or independently study methods of financing the railroad retirement program. Requires a report to Congress by October 1, 1983, on the alternatives studied. Urges railroad labor and management to agree on how to best solve the financial difficulties of such program.

Bill· SS. 44 (98th)open

Product Liability Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1983

Product Liability Act - Preempts State product liability laws. States that this Act governs any civil action for harm caused by a product which would have been based on: (1) strict or absolute liability in tort; (2) negligence or gross negligence; (3) breach of express or implied warranty and; (4) failure to discharge a duty to warn or instruct. Makes a manufacturer liable if the claimant establishes by a preponderance of the evidence that a product was unreasonably dangerous: (1) in construction or design; (2) because the manufacturer failed to provide adequate warnings of danger; or (3) because the product did not conform to an express warranty. Specifies the requisite findings which must be made for such proof of unreasonable danger to be determined. Subjects a product seller to liability if the claimant proves by a preponderance of the evidence that the claimant's harm was proximately caused by such seller's failure to use reasonable care with respect to the product. Enumerates circumstances under which such a seller is also subject to the liability of a manufacturer. Provides that all claims under this Act shall be governed by the principles of comparative responsibility. Sets forth rules with respect to conduct affecting comparative responsibility, including misuse, alteration or modification of a product. Specifies the manner in which damages are to be apportioned. Requires that damages in any product liability claim be reduced by an amount paid as workers' compensation benefits. Precribes a statute of limitation for recovery. Allows punitive damages to be awarded if the claimant proves by clear and convincing evidence that the harm suffered was the result of the product manufacturer's or sellers's reckless disregard for the safety of product users, consumers, or others who might be harmed by the product. Provides that evidence of corrective measures taken by a product seller after a harm has occurred would not be admissible in court to prove liability.

Law· SS. 47 (98th)enacted

Shipping Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1983

Shipping Act of 1983 - Makes this Act applicable to agreements by or among ocean common carriers to: (1) discuss, fix, and regulate rates, accommodations, and other conditions of service; (2) pool or apportion traffic, revenues, net losses, or net profits; (3) allot ports or regulate the number and character of sailings between ports; (4) limit or regulate the volume or character of cargo or passenger traffic; (5) engage in exclusive, preferential, or cooperative working arrangements among themselves or marine terminal operators or non- vessel-operating common carriers; (6) control, regulate, or prevent competition in international ocean transportation; and (7) consult and confer with shippers and shippers' councils regarding general rate levels, charges, classifications, rules, practices, or services. Makes this Act applicable to agreements among marine terminal operators, and among such operators and ocean common carriers to: (1) discuss, fix, and regulate rates and other conditions of service; (2) pool or apportion earnings, losses, or traffic; and (3) engage in exclusive, preferential, or cooperative working arrangements. Allows shippers to establish shippers' councils to: (1) mutually consult and exchange information or views regarding rates, charges, classifications, rules, practices, or services; (2) agree upon common positions; (3) consult and confer with ocean common carriers or conferences regarding rate levels, charges, classifications, rules, practices, or services; and (4) consolidate cargo and negotiate time/volume and service contracts with ocean common carriers. Requires that a copy of every applicable agreement be filed with the Federal Maritime Commission, except transportation performance agreements within or between foreign countries. Sets forth requirements for contents of conference agreements (including conferences utilizing loyalty contracts), interconference agreements, shippers' council agreements, and assessment agreements. Describes criteria by which the Commission shall suspend, cancel, or modify such agreements. Authorizes ocean common carriers or conferences engaged in foreign commerce to use loyalty contracts according to specified requirements. Exempts certain agreements, contracts, and activities from the antitrust laws. Directs ocean common carriers and conferences to file with the Commission, and keep open to public inspection, tariffs showing all rates between all points on each carrier's routes. Sets forth procedures for rate changes and refunds of rate charges. Authorizes the use of time/volume rates. Authorizes ocean common carriers or conferences to enter into service contracts with individual shippers or with a shippers council. Prohibits a controlled carrier from maintaining rates in its tariffs that are below a level that is just and reasonable. Describes standards against which such rates shall be disapproved. Provides for Presidential review of any order of suspension or final order of disapproval of rates of a controlled carrier. Exempts specified types of foreign carriers from the provisions of this Act. Requires that ocean freight forwarders be licensed by the Commission. Sets forth circumstances under which ocean freight forwarders may be compensated by common carriers. Sets forth prohibited acts for common carriers, conferences, ocean freight forwarders, and marine terminal operators. Prohibits specified concerted actions. Describes procedures for the investigation and adjudication of complaints alleging a violation of this Act. Sets forth civil penalties for such violations. Declares that orders of the Commission relating to any violation of this Act shall remain in effect for the period of time specified in such order unless suspended, modified, or set aside by the Commission or a court of competent jurisdiction. Authorizes the Commission or the injured party to seek injunctive relief in the appropriate United States district court for the enforcement of Commission orders. Authorizes the Commission to require reports and certificates from persons or entities governed by provisions of this Act. Permits the Commission to exempt any specified activity or class of agreements from provisions of this Act.

Bill· SS. 144 (98th)reported

International Trade and Investment Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1983

Reciprocal Trade and Investment Act of 1982 - Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to set forth provisions dealing with foreign trade barriers. Directs the United States Trade Representative (USTR), through the interagency trade organization established pursuant to the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, to identify, analyze, and estimate the impact of practices that constitute significant barriers to or distortions of: (1) U.S. export of goods or services; and (2) foreign direct investment by U.S. persons, especially if it has implications for trade in goods or services. Sets forth factors to be considered by the USTR in such analysis. Directs the USTR to update the analysis annually. Directs the USTR to submit the analysis to the appropriate congressional committees. Requires the report to include any action taken to eliminate such trade barriers. Directs the USTR to consult with Congress on trade policy priorities. Directs Federal agencies to furnish information and other assistance to prepare such analysis. Authorizes the President to respond to a foreign entity's unfair trade practices by taking action with respect to any goods or sector of such entity without regard to whether the goods or sector were involved in the unfair trade practice. (Current law provides that the President may take action against the products or services of the foreign entity.) Authorizes the President to propose legislation to protect U.S. trade rights or to eliminate unfair trade practices. Requires such legislative proposals to be given priority treatment. Requires a summary of a petition for a trade investigation by the USTR to be published in the Federal Register (currently, the entire petition must be published) if the USTR decides to begin an investigation with respect to the issues raised by the petition. Authorizes the USTR to initiate an investigation in order to advise the President concerning the exercise of the President's authority to take action against unfair trade practices. Directs the USTR to consult with the appropriate congressional committees before beginning such an investigation. Authorizes the USTR to delay for up to 90 days any request for consultation by a foreign entity concerning a petition for investigation into unfair trade practices. Directs the USTR to publish notice of the delay in the Federal Register and to report to Congress the reasons for the delay. Changes the definition of "commerce" for purposes of foreign trade investigations to include: (1) services associated with international trade, whether or not related to specific goods (currently products); and (2) foreign direct investment by U.S. persons with implications for trade in goods or services. Defines "unreasonable", "unjustifiable", and "discriminatory" for purposes of such investigations. Prohibits making information which the USTR has received in a trade investigation available to the public, if: (1) the person who provided the information makes a specified certification; (2) the USTR determines that such certification is well-founded; and (3) the person providing the information provides an adequate nonconfidential summary. Authorizes the USTR to use the information in trade investigations or to make it available to the public in a form which cannot identify the person providing the information. Sets forth the principal U.S. negotiating objectives with respect to trade in services, foreign direct investment, and high technology products. Directs the USTR to develop and coordinate the implementation of U.S. policies concerning trade in services. Requires Federal agencies responsible for regulating any service sector industry to advise and work with the USTR concerning: (1) the treatment afforded U.S. services sector interest in foreign markets; or (2) allegations of unfair practices by foreign governments or companies in a service sector. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to establish a service industries development program. Sets forth the goals of the program. Expresses the policy of the Congress that the President shall: (1) consult with State governments on trade policy issues affecting the regulatory authority on non-Federal governments or their procurement of goods and services; and (2) establish one or more intergovernmental policy advisory committees on trade. Authorizes the President to establish policy advisory committees representing non-Federal governmental interests to provide policy advice on trade negotiating objectives, bargaining positions, and the implementation of trade agreements. Authorizes the President to negotiate to reduce trade barriers in foreign direct investment by U.S. persons, especially if such investment has implications for trade in goods and services. Authorizes the President to enter into agreements concerning high technology industries. Authorizes the President to proclaim the modification, elimination or continuance of any existing duty, duty-free, excise treatment, or other additional duties with respect to specified high technology products listed in the U.S. Tariff Schedules. Provides for the termination of this authority five years after the enactment of this Act.

Law· SS. 46 (98th)enacted

An act to revise, consolidate, and enact certain laws related to vessels and seamen as subtitle II of title 46, United States Code, "Shipping".

United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1983

Amends Federal law to recodify and consolidate specified shipping and related marine provisions administered by the Coast Guard. Reorganizes existing law with respect to: (1) the operation, inspection, and regulation of passenger, cargo, animal transport, and recreational vessels; (2) marine casualties and accidents; (3) licenses, certificates and merchant mariners' documents; (4) the manning of vessels; and (5) merchant seamen, their protection and relief. Repeals specified laws.

Bill· SS. 98 (98th)open

Enterprise Zone Employment and Development Tax Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1983

Enterprise Zone Employment and Development Tax Act of 1983 - Title I: Designation of Enterprise Zones - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for the designation of enterprise zones by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development for purposes of extending the tax incentives and regulatory flexibility measures provided by this Act. Specifies that State and local governments shall nominate areas for such designation. Limits the designation of enterprise zones to 25 nominated areas per year (one-third of which must be in rural areas). Limits the period during which such designations shall remain in effect. Specifies that the Secretary may designate such zones only if: (1) the area is within the jurisdiction of the local government; (2) the boundary of the area is continuous; (3) the area has a population of at least 4,000 if any portion thereof is located within a standard metropolitan statistical area (with a population of at least 50,000) or 2,500 otherwise, or is within an Indian reservation; and (4) the area meets specified unemployment and poverty requirements. Requires nominating local governments, as a condition of the Secretary's designation, to agree in writing to follow a course of action which may include reducing tax rates, improving local services, simplifying or streamling regulation of business, or receiving commitments of private entities to assist employees and residents of the area. Terminates the authority of the Secretary to designate enterprise zones on January 1, 1987 or three years after the publication of regulations pertaining to such zones, whichever is later. Describes areas to which preference shall be given in deciding to designate enterprise zones. Requires that any property tax reduction effected by a local government under the terms of this Act be disregarded for purposes of determining the eligibility of a State or local government for Federal assistance or benefits. States that designation of an enterprise zone shall not give displaced persons from such an area any rights or benefits under the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970. Title II: Federal Income Tax Incentives - Subtitle A: Credit for Employers - Allows employers located in enterprise zones a nonrefundable income tax credit for increased employment expenditures and employment of the disadvantaged. Allows a three year carryback and 15 year carryover of such credit. Sets the amount of such credit at ten percent of the increase in payroll (taking into account a maximum of $15,000 in wages per year per employee) plus 50 percent of the wages paid to certain disadvantaged workers for the first three years of the enterprise zone designation. Phases out such credit in the last three years of the enterprise zone designation. Disallows a deduction for the portion of wages taken into account for such credit. Subtitle B: Credits for Investment in Tangible Property in Enterprise Zones - Allows businesses an additional investment tax credit for investment in certain tangible property located in enterprise zones. Limits such credit to five percent for zone personal property and ten percent for new zone construction property, including rental property. Requires that the property subject to such credit be predominantly used in the zone, be purchased after zone designation, and not be acquired from relatives or related corporations. Requires the recapture of such credit upon early disposition of the property. Phases out such credit in the last three years of the enterprise zone designation. Subtitle C: Reduction in Capital Gain Tax Rates - Eliminates the capital gains tax on property of corporations acquired after the enterprise zone designation and used in a zone business. Qualifies certain low-income rental housing located in an enterprise zone for such treatment. Permits property to remain qualified for purposes of the revised capital gains treatment after a designation of an enterprise zone has terminated. Exempts gain from the sale or exchange of property used in a business in an enterprise zone from the computation of the minimum tax. Allows noncorporate taxpayers to deduct from gross income 100 percent of any net capital gain from qualified enterprise zone property. Subtitle D: Rules Relating to Industrial Development Bonds - Provides that limitations on the cost recovery deductions for property financed with tax-exempt industrial development bonds shall not apply to enterprise zone property. Provides that the termination of the small issue exemption shall not apply to industrial development bonds the proceeds of which are used to finance facilities in such enterprise zones. Subtitle E: Deduction for Enterprise Stock - Allows a tax deduction up to a maximum of $100,000 per year for the purchase of stock originally issued by an enterprise zone small business having a net worth of less than $2,000,000. Taxes as ordinary income any amount previously taken as a deduction upon sale or disposition of such stock. Provides tax penalties if such stock is sold within three years. Subtitle F: Sense of the Congress with Respect to Tax Simplification - Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Internal Revenue Service should simplify the administration and enforcement of any provision of the Internal Revenue Code affected by this Act. Title III: Regulatory Flexibility - Revises the definition of "small entity" for purposes of the analysis of regulatory functions, to include qualified businesses (as defined in Title II of this Act), to include governments, and nonprofit enterprises operating within enterprise zones. Authorizes Federal agencies, upon request by a designating government, to waive or modify rules and regulations which pertain to the carrying out of projects or activities within an enterprise zone. Requires agencies to approve such request if the resulting benefits of job creation, community development, or economic revitalization outweigh the public interest in continuation of the rule unchanged. Disallows waiver or modification of a rule that would directly violate a statutory requirement (including the Davis-Bacon Act and Fair Labor Standards Act) or which would present a danger to the public health and safety. Provides that such waivers or modifications of a rule shall remain in effect as long as the zone designations. Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to promote the coordination of all enterprise zone programs and consolidate all periodic reports required under such programs into one summary report. Title IV: Establishment of Foreign-Trade Zones in Enterprise Zones - Requires the Foreign-Trade Board to consider on a priority basis and expedite the processing of applications for the establishment of foreign-trade zones within enterprise zones. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to give priority to, and expedite applications for, the establishment of ports of entry necessary to establish such zones. States that to the maximum extent practicable foreign-trade zones should be established within enterprise zones.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 501 (97th)passed

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the American people continue to protest martial law repression in Poland and wish to see it ended, remaining detainees released, and full and free dialogue resumed with the Church and Solidarity; and urging the President to proclaim a national day of solidarity and prayer with the Polish people on the first anniversary of the imposition of martial law.

United States · United States Congress · 6 December 1982

Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) the Senate condemns and abhors the suppression of civil liberties and human rights by the Polish martial law government; (2) Americans respect the commitment to ideals manifested by the Polish people and Lech Walesa in particular; (3) Americans hope that Polish authorities will take steps to return to the Polish people their rights and liberties; and (4) the President is urged to proclaim December 12, 1982, as a national day of solidarity and prayer for Poland.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 500 (97th)passed

A resolution commending the Government of Zimbabwe.

United States · United States Congress · 3 December 1982

Commends the Government of Zimbabwe for its efforts to protect the lives of two Americans, two Australians, and two British citizens who were kidnapped in Zimbabwe in July 1982. Urges the President to continue to support Zimbabwe in this matter.

Bill· SS. 3048 (97th)referred

Federal Anti-Tampering Act

United States · United States Congress · 30 November 1982

Federal Anti-Tampering Act - Amends the Federal criminal code to make it a Federal offense to maliciously cause or attempt to cause injury or death to any person, or injury to any business' reputation, by adulterating a food, drug, cosmetic or other product. Provides for a prison term of up to 20 years and a fine of up to $20,000 if personal injury results, or a prison term of up to life if death results. Establishes a separate offense, with similar penalties, for any person who willfully or maliciously conveys false information concerning an attempt at such adulteration, if injury or death results.

Bill· SS. 3043 (97th)open

Federal-Aid Highway Improvement Act of 1982

United States · United States Congress · 29 November 1982

Federal-Aid Highway Improvement Act of 1982 - Amends the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 to revise the authorization of appropriations for FY 1984 through 1990 for the Interstate Highway System. Authorizes appropriations out of the Highway Trust Fund for FY 1983 through 1987 for: (1) the Federal-aid primary program; (2) the Federal-aid rural program; (3) the Federal-aid urban program; (4) forest highways; (5) public lands highways; (6) bridge replacement and rehabilitation; and (7) highway safety improvements. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1983 through 1987 for Indian reservation roads. Rescinds specified unapportioned or unallocated sums authorized by the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1982. Declares that no State shall receive less than one-half of one percent of the total apportionment for the Interstate System for FY 1984 through 1988. Revises apportionments for the highway bridge replacement and rehabilitation program. Requires that not less than 60 percent of apportioned funds for the Federal-aid primary, rural, and urban programs be spent on projects for resurfacing, restoring, and rehabilitating roads. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to develop a selection process for discretionary bridges according to certain criteria. Revises the apportionment ratio for resurfacing, restoring, rehabilitating, and reconstructing the Interstate System. Directs the Secretary to report to Congress on the distribution of Federal financial assistance for such activities. Amends the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1978 to extend the authorization of appropriations from FY 1983 through 1988 for resurfacing, restoring, rehabilitating, and reconstructing specified lanes on the Interstate System. Authorizes appropriations, out of the Highway Trust Fund, for FY 1983 through 1987 for substitute highway and mass transit projects. Repeals provisions concerning priority primary routes. Revises procedures concerning the Federal-aid urban and rural programs. Directs the Secretary, in consultation with the States, to establish a highway safety improvement program for projects on public roads including: (1) specified highway safety improvement projects; (2) railway-highway crossing projects; (3) highway-related safety requirements and guidelines; and (4) evaluation of the highway safety improvement program. Sets forth procedures for the implementation of such program. Revises the highway bridge replacement and rehabilitation program. Revises provisions concerning the Federal lands highways program including forest highways and park roads. Repeals provisions concerning: (1) economic growth center development highways; (2) the national scenic and recreational highway; (3) access highways to certain public recreation areas; and (4) highway crossings. Directs the Secretary to expend such sums as are necessary (up to 100 percent of costs) for carpool and vanpool projects. Authorizes the Secretary to approve financial assistance for acquisition or construction of preferential parking facilities for carpools. Prohibits the use of emergency relief funds for the repair or reconstruction of certain bridges that have been permanently closed to vehicular traffic. Requires that emergency relief funds be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund. Revises the Federal share payable for emergency repairs or reconstruction. Allows Federal-aid highway projects to include nonconstruction programs or projects which enhance the safety and use of bicycles. Increases to 100 percent the Federal share for bicycle transportation and pedestrian walkway projects. Amends the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1973 to allow limited truck traffic on the Highland Scenic Highway in West Virginia. Allows States to transfer funds allocated for a particular urbanized area to another such area. Authorizes the Secretary to discharge any of his responsibilities relative to the physical construction phase of Interstate projects using established certification acceptance procedures. Eliminates the requirement for the Secretary to make a final inspection of each such project. Requires defense access roads to be funded from monies appropriated for defense maneuvers and exercises. Authorizes the Secretary, if after 90 days following notification of a State highway department a project is still not being properly maintained, to withhold project funds for one or more of the other Federal-aid systems or programs in the State. (Presently the Secretary is required to withhold funds from all projects in the State). Requires each State on January 1 of each year to certify to the Secretary that it has a program for the Interstate Highway System in accordance with the Secretary's guidelines. Combines highway planning and research funds into a single fund for administration by the Secretary. Establishes the Federal share for any project financed by such fund. Requires provision of equal employment opportunities for highway projects without regard to sex. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct and finance training and assistance programs for minority business enterprises. Directs the Secretary to enter into agreements with other Federal agencies to minimize duplication, paperwork, and delays in the development of Federal highway projects. Sets forth limitations on obligations and State allocations for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs for FY 1983 through 1987. Requires the Secretary, in cooperation with the State of Vermont, to carry out a project to demonstrate the feasibility of reducing the time required to complete highway projects by extending the coverage of State certifications to any Federal law, regulation, or policy applicable to such project. Authorizes appropriations from the Highway Trust Fund for such project. States that the Federal share of any such project shall be 100 percent of the total cost and that authorized funds shall remain available until expended. Requires the Secretary to submit a recommendation and report to Congress within six months of the project's completion. Allows the State of Alaska to expend Federal-aid highway funds on portions of an Alaskan highway that extend into Canada. Repeals the Territorial Highway Program. Amends the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1978 to repeal the acceleration of the bridge projects program. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out projects in and around Devils Lake, North Dakota, to demonstrate construction techniques to prevent wave erosion on closed basin lakes with grade level highway crossings. Authorizes appropriations from the Highway Trust Fund for FY 1983 for such projects. Authorizes the Secretary to reimburse North Dakota for funds previously expended on such projects. Sets forth the Federal share for the demonstration projects and makes authorized funding available until expended. Directs the Secretary, in cooperation with the State of Idaho, to conduct a demonstration project to study factors contributing to truck accidents. Authorizes appropriations out of the Highway Trust Fund to carry out such project. States that the Federal share of the project shall be 100 percent of the total cost and that authorized funds shall remain available until expended. Requires the Secretary to report to Congress on the results of such project not later than 180 days after its completion.

Bill· SS. 3008 (97th)referred

A bill to amend the laws of the United States to eliminate gender-based distinctions.

United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1982

Title I: Armed Forces, Soldiers' Home, Coast Guard, Lighthouse Service, and Merchant Marine - Amends Federal Military laws dealing with the Army, the Navy, the Air Force, and the Coast Guard to eliminate gender-based distinctions. Title II: Elimination of Gender-Based Distinctions Under the Old Age, Surviviors, and Disability Insurance Program, Railroad Retirement and the Work Incentive Program - Eliminates gender-based distinctions in the social security and railroad retirement programs. Title III: Amendments to United States Code - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act, the Walsh-Healey Act, the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, the Federal Criminal Code and other Acts dealing with Indian affairs, transportation, public lands and provisions relating to Saint Elizabeth Hospital and contract law to eliminate gender-based distinctions.

Bill· SS. 3000 (97th)referred

A bill to address several problems relating to vessel service to the State of Alaska.

United States · United States Congress · 30 September 1982

Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1920, to allow transportation of merchandise during a three-year period between points within the continental United States, including Alaska, in any vessel engaged in such service on September 1, 1982, which involved transportation, in part, over Canadian rail lines. Allows documented foreign-built vessels used in the processing or assembly of fishery products to transport merchandise which is directly fisheries-related between points in the United States. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to report to Congress, within one year of enactment of this Act, on measures necessary to improve marine transportation to, from, and within Alaska. Repeals provisions of this Act on January 1, 1986, and reamends the Merchant Marine Act, 1920, as of such date, to read the way it reads on the day before enactment of this Act.

Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 126 (97th)open

A concurrent resolution calling upon the United States Government to support the people of Afghanistan with material assistance in their struggle to be free from foreign domination.

United States · United States Congress · 30 September 1982

Declares that it should be U.S. policy to: (1) support the people of Afghanistan in their struggle to be free from foreign domination; (2) provide the Afghans, upon request, with material assistance; and (3) pursue a negotiated settlement of the war in Afghanistan based on the total withdrawal of Soviet troops and the recognition of the right of the Afghans to choose their own destiny.

Bill· SS. 2948 (97th)open

Humane Care and Development of Substitutes for Animals in Research Act

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1982

Humane Care and Development of Substitutes for Animals in Research Act - Title I: Development of Improved Research and Testing Methods - Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make awards to sponsor research and development of scientific testing methods which eliminate the use of live animals, reduce the number of live animals required, or limit animal pain and distress. Requires that applications and proposals for such awards be assessed through peer review procedures. Requires the Secretary to designate an Advisory Panel to: (1) give advice on his or her responsibilities under this Act; (2) make recommendations on specific opportunities or problems regarding research support of nonanimal testing; and (3) set up a system for insuring that applications or proposals meeting the requirements of ths title receive full consideration for funding by the Department or for funding under this title. Requires the Panel to report to the Secretary three years after enactment of this Act on the impact of this Act on industry costs, research, product prices, and progress in labor accreditation. Makes funds for making awards under this title available through the allocation of research resources within the Department. Provides that the Secretary, consulting with the Environmental Protection Agency and other regulatory and scientific research agencies, shall direct the National Institutes of Health, the Food and Drug Administration, and the National Toxicology Program to: (1) promote new nonanimal testing methods; (2) evaluate existing nonanimal methods; (3) enhance and integrate data systems for more efficient use of test data involving animals; and (4) develop new methodologies for the toxicology data systems. Requires the Secretary to report to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate on progress under this Act within two years after enactment of this Act and biennially thereafter. Title II: Federal Award Requirements - Requires that a research entity be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency in order to be eligible to receive a Federal award for testing involving a large number of animals. Requires the Secretary to designate accrediting agencies which: (1) are able to ascertain the qualifications of research entities to conduct testing involving animals; (2) have an accreditation system; (3) have a system for routine inspection of laboratory animal facilities at accredited research entities; (4) have established a set of standards for acceptable animal care, treatment, and use in experimental procedures; and (5) have established a mechanism for liaison with the institutional animal studies committees in accredited research entities and for the involvement of such committees in monitoring compliance with the accreditation standards. Requires research entities to comply with accreditation standards ten years after the date of enactment of this Act. Authorizes provisional accreditation in the interim period. Provides for the establishment of a Federal accreditation mechanism if there are no private agencies to carry out such functions. Provides that in order to be eligible for a Federal award for testing involving large numbers of animals, a research entity must provide to the responsible Federal agency a statement of assurances that: (1) the research entity has established an institutional animal studies committee; (2) the committee will meet regularly, make periodic inspections of all animal study areas and facilities of the research entity, review research methods and practices, and file with the responsible Federal agency certification that such inspections and reviews have occurred and reports on deficient animal care or treatment conditions; (3) the committee will maintain complete records of its activities; (4) committee members will be encouraged to notify the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the Department of Agriculture, the responsible Federal agency, and the applicable accrediting agency of any unacceptable animal care conditions with respect to the research entity; and (5) the committee will establish courses for personnel involved with animal care and use on humane animal maintenance and experimentation and on research or testing methods that minimize animal use and animal distress. Requires that Federal support be withheld where animal care conditions are unacceptable despite notification to the research entity. Requires research entities to inform their employees of the provisions under this title and to instruct employees to report violations to the animal studies committee. Authorizes the Secretary to waive accreditation requirements under certain circumstances. Directs the Secretary to facilitate agency compliance with this title through the establishment of an information clearinghouse on animal research methods and models. Title III: Special Procedures - Prohibits Federal agency approval of a research proposal involving animal use, unless such proposal justifies any anticipated animal distress in terms of research benefits and provides for the consulting services of a veterinarian, the proper use of tranquilizers, analgesics, anesthetics, and paralytics, appropriate pre- and postsurgical care, and the limited use of animals in major operations. Makes regulations promulgated under this Act ineffective if disapproved by either House of Congress within 60 days after proposal. Title IV: Exemption - Exempts from the requirements of this Act activities intended to improve animal health, breeding, or management or wild animal conservation and specific experiments or research programs for which such requirements would present national security risks or risks to the safety of manned space flight. Title V: Termination - Terminates all authority conferred by this Act ten years after enactment.

Bill· SS. 2942 (97th)open

A bill to provide that disability benefits under title II of the Social Security Act shall continue to be paid through the end of the administrative appeals process, and that periodic reviews of disability cases shall be carried out only to the extent determined to be appropriate.

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1982

Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to permit an individual who has been found to be no longer eligible for disability benefits and who has requested a hearing on such determination to elect to have the payment of such benefits continued during the period of appeal. Provides that if the decision upon appeal affirms the determination that the individual is not entitled to such benefits, any benefits paid pursuant to such election shall be considered overpayments. Provides that such benefit payments shall not be considered overpayments if the individual's appeal was made in good faith and if treating such payments as overpayments would work an undue financial hardship on the individual. Makes the requirement that disability determinations under title II be reviewed at least every three years applicable only to the extent necessary to insure that the appropriate number of cases are reviewed. Requires the Secretary to determine the appropriate number of cases to be reviewed in each State. Requires the Secretary to report annually to specified congressional committees with respect to the Secretary's determinations.