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United States · Official source
886 records where Sen. Gravel, Mike [D-AK] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years
United States · United States Congress · 27 August 1976
Designates the extension of the Senate Office Building presently under construction pursuant to the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 1973, as the "Philip A. Hart Office Building."
United States · United States Congress · 24 August 1976
National Aquaculture Organic Act - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish a National Development Plan. States that such plan shall: (1) identify each aquatic species which can be cultured on a commercial basis (priority aquatic species); and (2) contain a program of aquaculture development for such priority aquatic species. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to review annually each aquatic species not identified as a priority species and the program established for each priority species. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish and maintain an aquaculture information center; (2) maintain an inventory of public and private aquaculture being carried out in the United States; (3) arrange for the mutual exchange of information relating to aquaculture with foreign nations; (4) provide advisory, educational, marketing, and technical services with respect to aquaculture to interested public and private organizations and individuals; and (5) coordinate with the Environmental Protection Agency to investigate the utilization of aquacultural and other forms of waste water in carrying out the purposes of this Act. Establishes the Interagency Committee on Aquaculture comprised of the heads of various Federal agencies to insure that there is a continuing exchange of information relating to the aquacultural programs and projects of the various agencies and to review on a continuing basis the relevant programs and projects of all Federal agencies. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Secretary of the Interior to make grants or enter into contracts to carry out the purposes of this Act. Limits the amount of any grant made available under this Act to one-half of the estimated cost of the project for which the grant was made. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to guarantee obligations issued for the financing of any aquaculture facility within the United States. Stipulates that the aggregate unpaid principal amount of all such guaranteed obligations shall not exceed $100,000,000. Authorizes the Secretary to collect a fee for guaranteed obligations not to exceed one-half of one percent per annum of the outstanding principal balance of the obligation. Sets forth the allowable interest rate, maturity date, and default procedures relating to such loans. Authorizes the Secretary to issue notes or obligations to the Secretary of the Treasury if the monies in the loan fund are insufficient to pay such a loan in the event of default. Establishes within the Treasury a Federal Aquaculture Assistance Fund for the purpose of guaranteeing loans under this act. Requires the Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture, to submit an annual report to Congress which shall document and evaluate the success or failure of the facilities for which loan guarantees were made under this Act. Authorizes appropriations in specified amounts to each of the Secretaries of Commerce, Agriculture and the Interior through fiscal year 1980 to carry out the provisions of this Act except for the purpose of guaranteeing loans. Authorizes appropriations of a maximum of $100,000,000 without fiscal year limitation, to the Federal Aquaculture Assistance Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 5 August 1976
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to construct, operate, and maintain the Allen Camp unit of the Central Valley project in California. Authorizes the Secretary to replace roads and bridges which would be inundated by the project. Places restrictions on the use of water from such project. Authorizes the appropriation of $64,220,000 for construction of the unit. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1977 of $150,000 under the Indian Elementary and Secondary School Assistance Act, $1,200,000 under the Elementary and Secondary School Assistance Act, $1,200,000 under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, and $632,000 under the Adult Education Act for the continuation of specified grants authorized under those Acts. Directs the Commissioner of Education to make grants under authorities contained in the Indian Education Act in specified amounts to applicants not yet funded for fiscal year 1976 from the Department of the Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 1 July 1976
Amends the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act to direct the Secretary of the Interior to withdraw 70,000 acres of public lands in order that the Village Corporation for the Villiage of Klukwan may select 23,040 acres.
United States · United States Congress · 1 July 1976
Treaty Powers Resolution - Expresses the sense of the Senate that any international agreement which involves a significant political, military, or economic commitment to a foreign country constitutes a treaty and should be submitted to the Senate for its advice and consent. Provides that the Senate may, by resolution, express its sense that any international agreement hereafter entered into which has not been submitted to the Senate for its advice and consent constitutes a treaty. States that it shall not be in order to consider any bill or joint resolution or any amendment thereto, or any report of a committee of conference, which authorizes or provides budget authority to implement any international agreement which the Senate has found to constitute a treaty unless the Senate has given its advice and consent to ratification of such agreement.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 1976
Commercial Fisheries Improvement Fund Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to make long-term, low interest, incentive loans for investment in fisheries shoreside facilities for underutilized fisheries and fishing vessels for underutilized fisheries. Sets forth the terms for such loans. Requires the Secretary, before approving a loan for the purchase of a new or used vessel, to determine that the applicant's comtemplated operation of such vessel in a fishery will not cause economic hardship or injury to efficient vessels already operating in that fishery. Directs that loans pursuant to this Act shall be made only to citizens or nationals of the United States. Provides that no corporation, partnership, or association organized under the laws of American Samoa shall be deemed a national of the United States unless 75 percent of the interest therein is owned by nationals or citizens of the United States. Establishes in the U.S. Treasury a Commercial Fisheries Improvement Fund which shall be used by the Secretary as a fund from which to make loans under this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of $250,000,000 to provide initial capital for all loans under this Act. Repeals provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956 which provide loans for financing or refinancing of the cost of purchasing, constructing, equipping, maintaining, repairing, or operating commercial fishing vessels or gear. Directs that any outstanding loans made under such provisions shall be handled in accordance with this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1976
Requires the inclusion of professional registered nurses in Professional Standards Review Organizations of medical professionals in carrying out the functions of such review organizations under Title XI (General Provisions and Professional Standards Review) of the Social Security Act. Requires the inclusion of two professional registered nurses on the Statewide Professional Standards Review Councils organized pursuant to such Title. Requires the inclusion of three professional registered nurses on the National Professional Standards Review Council. Includes professional registered nurses in that class of health care practitioners which may not be held civilly liable on account of any action taken in compliance with or reliance upon norms of care and treatment applied by a Professional Standards Review Organization.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1976
Federal Officials' Anti-Defamation Act - Stipulates that any person who with actual malice makes any false and defamatory communication concerning a Federal official which results or tends to result in pecuniary or nonpecuniary loss to such individual shall be liable for damages sustained. Charges the plaintiff in such actions with the burden of proof. Entitles the plaintiff to recover punitive damages if the defendant is guilty of gross abuse, outrageous conduct, or oppression resulting in aggravated injury sustained by the plaintiff. Prohibits the use of the defense that the false and defamatory communication in issue was reprinted or in any manner repeated from another source. Grants Federal district courts original jurisdiction over civil actions brought under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 1976
Provides that the prohibition of the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 as to the consideration by the Senate of H.R. 12545, legislation authorizing the enactment of new budget authority for a fiscal year if such legislation is not reported to the Senate on or before May 15 preceding the beginning of such fiscal year be waived with respect to the River Basin Monetary Authorization Act of 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 1976
Authorizes the Joint Committee on Printing to provide for the printing of a daily publication entitled "Today in Congress." Provides that no more than 10,000 copies shall be printed in daily form. States that the publication shall provide a summary of the planned daily activities of the Senate and the House of Representatives and present a brief description of the manner in which the Congress conducts its activities.
United States · United States Congress · 10 June 1976
Devil Canyon Authorization Act - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to construct the Watana and Devil Canyon units of the Upper Susitna River Basin project in Alaska, at an estimated Federal cost of $1,520,000,000.
United States · United States Congress · 10 June 1976
Hydroelectric Power Development Act - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to construct water resources development projects for hydroelectric power, utilizing funds from the Hydroelectric Power Development Fund created by this Act. Stipulates that non-Federal authorities must agree to share project costs as a prerequisite to construction. Stipulates that the United States shall assume the obligation for all additional costs not caused by non-Federal authorities. Authorizes the appropriation of $25,000,000 for deposit in the Hydroelectric Power Development Fund, and any such additional sums as necessary to maintain the fund at an average minimum balance of $25,000,000.
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1976
Alaska Natural Gas Transportation Act - Expresses the intent of Congress that the selection of a natural gas transportation system for delivery of Alaskan natural gas to other States be made through the establishment of new administrative and judicial procedures. Directs the Federal Power Commission to establish special procedures for expedited review of applications and reasonable alternatives relating to the transportation of Alaskan natural gas. Directs the Commission to complete its review and transmit its findings to the President by March 1, 1977. Requires that reports from other agencies which the President shall deem appropriate be submitted by April 1, 1977. Establishes criteria for information to be considered in such reports. Directs the President to make a final decision as to proposed systems for the transportation of Alaskan natural gas not later than July 1, 1977. Establishes procedures for Congressional review of such Presidential decision. Directs the Secretary of the Interior and other appropriate Federal officials to issue all necessary permits and take other necessary action to enforce all rights-of-way, permits, and leases related to the construction and operation of such natural gas transportation system. Requires compliance with requirements of the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920 relating to rights- of-way for pipelines through Federal lands. Exempts authorizations issued pursuant to this Act from requirements concerning: (1) compliance with National Environmental Policy Act provisions; (2) technical and financial capacity of applicants; (3) public hearings; and (4) furnishing of specified information and reports. Stipulates that an environmental impact statement on the proposed project shall be prepared at the earliest practicable time after the issuance of all necessary permits. Declares that the legal or factual sufficiency of such environmental statement shall not be subject to judicial review. Authorizes the Secretary and the Commission to develop procedural requirements of Federal law where desirable to accomplish the purposes of this Act. Declares that the actions of Federal officers and agencies under this Act shall not be subject to judicial review by the courts. Allows for claims that: (1) this Act is unconstitutional; (2) actions under this Act will deny Constitutional rights; and (3) actions taken are beyond the scope of authority conferred by this Act, provided that such claims are filed within 60 days following the date of the challenged action. Declares that exclusive jurisdiction shall be vested in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia, with review of any final order limited to direct appeal to the United States Supreme Court. Declares that the court shall not have the power to issue injunctive relief against the issuance of any certificate, except in cases where a final judgment is entered.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1976
Establishes the George W. Norris Home National Historic Site, Nebraska.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1976
Energy Conservation Act - Directs the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration to prescribe guidelines for the development and preparation of State energy conservation implementation programs. Requires that States be given an opportunity to participate in the drafting of such guidelines. Establishes eligibility criteria for State energy conservation implementation programs in order to receive Federal assistance under this Act. Imposes a preliminary requirement that the State establish a State energy conservation advisory committee to assist in the formulation of such program. Authorizes the Administrator to provide Federal financial assistance to States whose proposed energy conservation programs meet such criteria. Lists factors to be considered in determining the amount of such assistance. Stipulates that no State shall receive more than ten percent of the national total in each category of financial assistance. Authorizes the appropriation of the following sums to assist eligible State programs: $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, and $50,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980. Amends the Energy Conservation and Insulation of Buildings Act of 1976 to authorize additional appropriations of $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $50,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978 and 1979; and $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1980 to assist low-income persons under the provisions of such Act. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to assist in the financing of energy conservation measures. Authorizes the appropriation of the following amounts for such assistance payments: $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, and $200,000, 000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980. Amends the Small Business Act to empower the Small Business Administration to make loans to small business concerns for implementation of energy conservation measures. Limits the total amount of such loans under the Act of $300,000,000. Stipulates that the total amount of such payments to lending institutions under the Act shall not exceed $60,000,000. Authorizes the Administrator to guarantee loans and other obligations issued to finance energy conservation measures consistent with the purposes of this Act. Limits the aggregate amount of outstanding guarantees under this Act to $10,000,000,000. Requires annual reports to the Congress on actions taken to implement the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1976
Authorizes the following additional appropriations for the comprehensive plan for the following river basins through the transitional quarter: (1) North Branch, Susquehanna River Basin, an additional $5,800,000; and (2) South Platte River Basin, an additional $3,200,000. Stipulates that the total amount of appropriations authorized by this Act shall not exceed $9,000,000.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1976
Equal Opportunity Enterprise Act - Title I: Amendments Affecting the Small Business Act - Amends the Small Business Act to establish the Office of Socially and Economically Disadvantaged- Owned Small Business Assistance Personnel in the Small Business Administration (S.B.A.) to work with all agencies of the Government having procurement powers in order to identify contracts suitable for disadvantaged American concerns and within each regional office of the S.B.A. to supervise and coordinate small business programs. Requires that such Personnel shall make semiannual reports to the Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Procurement Assistance concerning the allocation of procurement contracts. Directs the Administrator of the S.B.A. to appoint an Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Procurement Assistance. Increases the authorization for appropriations in the small business loan program and requires that not less than 15 percent of aggregate direct loans shall be made to minority small business concerns. Provides statutory standards for contracting and subcontracting by the United States with respect to minority businesses. Requires that the Administration of the S.B.A. shall report to Congress and the President concerning the development of minority small businesses. Authorizes $201,600,000 to be appropriated for fiscal year 1977 for purposes of this title. Title II: Amendments to the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 - Requires that a Utilization of Small Business Enterprises owned by Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Americans clause appear in specified Government contracts. Requires that specified Government contractors establish and conduct a Subcontracting Program for Business Enterprises Owned by Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Americans which includes: (1) designation of a liaison officer to administer the Contractor's program; (2) consideration of the potentialities of minority business enterprises in all "make or buy" decisions to provide materials or services; and (3) maintenance of records concerning procedures adopted and subcontracts awarded. Sets forth other preferences which will be extended to minority business enterprises. Title III: Committee on Federal Assistance to Minority Enterprise - Establishes the Committee on Federal Assistance to Minority Enterprise composed of 15 members to be appointed by the President with the consent of the Senate, from members of minority groups who are knowledgeable in minority participation in the economy. Provides for the compensation and terms of office of the members and the appointment of an Executive Director. Directs the Committee to develop methods for delivery of financial assistance to minority enterprises; for generating markets for goods and services; and for providing effective business education and technical assistance. Grants the Committee powers including: the holding of hearings, and information gathering from any Federal agency, in order to carry out the goals of this Act. Requires the Committee to submit semiannual reports to each House of Congress concerning its activities. Authorizes $748,000 to be appropriated for fiscal year 1977.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1976
Provides for the relief of Clifford and Yvonne Gibbons.
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1976
Provides for the relief of Kwan Ho Song.
United States · United States Congress · 14 April 1976
Treaty Powers Resolution - Expresses the sense of the Senate that any international agreement which involves a significant political, military, or economic commitment to a foreign country constitutes a treaty and should be submitted to the Senate for its advice and consent. Provides that the Senate may, by resolution, find that any international agreement hereafter entered into which has not been submitted to the Senate for its advice and consent constitutes a treaty. States that it shall not be in order to consider any bill or joint resolution or any amendment thereto, or any report of a committee of conference, which authorizes or provides budget authority to implement any international agreement which the Senate has found to constitute a treaty unless the Senate has given its advice and consent to ratification of such agreement.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1976
Establishes national historic trails as a category of trails within the national trails system. Declares that any trail which: (1) was established by historic use and is historically significant as a result of that use; (2) has had a far-reaching effect on broad patterns of American culture; and (3) has significant potential for public recreational use, may be designated a national historic trail. Designates the Iditarod Trail, Alaska, as a national historic trail.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1976
Grand Jury Reform Act - Authorizes a U.S. district court, whenever a witness in any proceeding before a U.S. grand jury or district court refuses without just cause to comply with an order of the court to testify or provide other information, to confine such witness. Prohibits confinement of a recalcitrant witness for a subsequent refusal to testify concerning the same transaction or event. Directs the Government attorney to apply to the court for an order granting the witness immunity in any proceeding before a U.S. court or grand jury where: (1) the testimony of a witness or the production of evidence by a witness is necessary to the United States; (2) the witness consents; and (3) the Attorney General approves the application. Allows the court to order a witness to testify or produce other evidence even though the witness claims that such testimony or evidence may be incriminating. Declares that testimony given or evidence produced under such grant of immunity may not be used as evidence against such witness in any court and may not subject such witness to any consequent penalty or forfeiture. Requires district courts to give adequate and reasonable notice to a grand jury of its rights and duties, including: (1) its duty to inquire into offenses under U.S. criminal laws alleged to have been committed within the judicial district; (2) its authority to make independent inquiries; (3) its right to call and interrogate witnesses; (4) its right to request production of documents; and (5) such other rights and duties as the court deems advisable. Declares that failure to instruct a grand jury as directed constitutes just cause for a witness's refusal to testify or provide other information and entitles any person indicted by such grand jury to a dismissal of the indictment. Stipulates that the grand jury shall serve for a term of 12 months with specified exceptions. Authorizes, in the event that the Government attorney refuses to assist or hinders a grand jury inquiry, the appointment by the court of a special attorney to assist the grand jury if it so requests. Grants such special attorney the exclusive authority to assist the grand jury in the conduct of an independent investigation and to sign any indictment returned by the grand jury in such investigation. Requires that any subpena summoning a witness to appear before a grand jury advise the witness of: (1) the right to counsel; (2) the privilege against self-incrimination; (3) whether the witness's own conduct is under investigation by the grand jury; (4) the subject matter of the grand jury investigation and the substantive criminal statute, violation of which is under consideration by the grand jury; and (5) other rights and privileges which the court deems necessary and appropriate. Accords grand jury witnesses the right to examine and copy a transcript of the record for the period of such witness's appearance before the grand jury. Gives a grand jury witness the right, prior to testifying, to examine and copy any statement in the possession of the United States which such witness has made relating to the subject matter under inquiry. Excuses a witness subpenaed to testify or to produce evidence from doing so where: (1) the primary purpose or effect would be to secure information regarding the activities of a person already under indictment; (2) compliance would be unreasonable or oppressive; (3) a primary purpose of the subpena is to harass the witness; (4) the witness has already been confined for refusal to testify before any grand jury investigating the same transaction or event; or (5) the witness has not been advised of the rights accorded such witness under this Act. Permits the district court before which the grand jury was legally impaneled to dismiss any indictment where the evidence violates specified requirements of legal sufficiency, competence and admissability, and inclusion of all exculpatory evidence in the Government's possession. Stipulates that a witness may not refuse to testify before a Federal agency or Congress, after a grant of immunity, on the ground that such testimony may be incriminating. Prohibits the use of information compelled under order, after such privilege is claimed, in any criminal case except a prosecution for perjury. Requires the Attorney General or an Assistant Attorney General to report annually to Congress and the Administrative Office of the United States Courts on specified matters relating to grand jury investigations. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 2514, 6001, 28 U.S.C. 1826; Adds 18 U.S.C. 403, 3328, 3330, 6006)
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1976
Amends the Tariff Schedules of the United States to reduce the customs duty for fish netting or fish nets of fabric other than cotton or vegetable fibers.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1976
Amends the Department of Transportation Act and the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 to reduce the amount authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of Transportation to the Secretary of Transportation for acquiring and utilizing space in suitable buildings of historic or architectural significance and for planning for the conversion of railroad passenger terminals into intermodal transportation terminals and civic and cultural centers. Amends the National Foundation on the Arts and Humanities Act of 1965 to authorize appropriation to the National Endownment for the Arts of the amounts representing such reduction, to be used for the same purposes. Amends the Department of Transportation Act to repeal the requirement that the Secretary of Transportation preserve railroad passenger terminals that have a reasonable likelihood of being converted or otherwise maintained pending the formulation of plans for reuse.
United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1976
Medicare-Medicaid Administrative and Reimbursement Reform Act - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare under the Social Security Act to establish within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare a unit known as the Health Care Financing Administration. States that such Administration shall include the functions and personnel of the existing Bureau of Health Insurance, Medical Services Administration, Bureau of Quality Insurance, and Office of Nursing Home Affairs. Establishes within the Department the office of Assistant Secretary for Health Care Financing. Places the Assistant Secretary in charge of the Health Care Financing Administration. Includes in the area of responsibility of such Assistant Secretary the programs established by Title XVIII (Medicare) and Title XIX (Medicaid), the Professional Standards Review program, and the renal disease program of the Social Security Act. Establishes an Office of Central Fraud and Abuse Control within the Department. Directs the creation of a new position to be known as Inspector General for Health Administration. Places such Inspector General in charge of the Office of Central Fraud and Abuse Control. States that such Inspector General shall have responsibility for dealing with fraud and abuse in the programs established by Title V (Maternal and Child Health Crippled Children's Services), Title XVIII, Title XIX, the Professional Standards Review section of Title XI, and the renal disease treatment provisions of Title II (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. Declares it to be the duty of the Inspector General to take such actions as are necessary to ascertain the efficiency and economy of the administration of the programs under his cognizance, their consonance with the provisions of law by or pursuant to which such programs were established, and the attainment of the objectives and purposes for which such provisions of law were enacted. Authorizes the appropriation of such funds as may be necessary to carry out the functions of the Inspector General. Establishes mandatory time limits for States to observe in making determinations of eligibility for services under the Medicaid program and in making payments on claims. Specifies those reports which States must submit to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare in connection with the operation of the State Medicaid program. Includes reports on the State's performance in meeting the time limits established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Secretary to conduct an annual survey of each State's performance in meeting established time frames and remaining within allowable rates of error in making eligibility determinations. Establishes sanctions for States which fail to correct deficiencies uncovered by such surveys. Directs the Secretary to provide technical assistance to any State which requests such assistance in meeting the time limits and error rates established by this Act. Directs the Secretary to prepare a biannual report on the characteristics of the State programs of medical assistance financed under the Medicaid program, including as a minimum: (1) a description of the amount, duration, and scope of benefits available in each State; (2) a description of eligibility criteria for all groups eligible for medical assistance in each State; (3) a specification of the reimbursement rates paid under the State program for the major types of services in each State; and (4) a listing of all fiscal agents contracted with for administration of the program. Directs the submission of such report to the Senate Committee on Finance and the House Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce. Directs the Secretary to establish procedures consistent with Federal procurement requirements to ensure the economical processing of Medicare claims by organizations engaged in the provision of group health services. Terminates the Health Insurance Benefits Advisory Council. Establishes a new method of reimbursement for routine operating costs for hospitals under the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Requires, as part of the implementation of such new method, the establishment of a uniform accounting and cost allocation system for determining operating and capital costs of hospitals providing services. Requires the establishment of a system by which hospitals will be classified by such criteria as: (1) size; (2) type of hospital (general, teaching, or specialized Care); and (3) such other criteria as the Secretary shall identify. Stipulates that the term "routine operating costs" does not include: (1) capital costs (including interest expense on loans to purchase capital assets, and depreciation); (2) direct personnel and supply costs of hospital education and training programs; (3) costs of interns, residents, and medical (but not nursing) personnel; and (4) energy costs associated with heating or cooling the hospital plant. Directs the Secretary to determine annually for the hospitals classified in each category of the hospital classification system established by this Act, an average per diem routine operating cost amount for use in determining, for purposes of making payment under this title to such hospitals for services furnished by them, the reasonable cost of that portion of the hospital's costs which consist of routine operating costs. Provides for the periodic increase during the year of the routine operating cost as determined pursuant to this Act to reflect increases in the cost of services which are attributable to inflation. Provides for the adjustment of the routine operating cost of a hospital to reflect higher costs to such hospital of a case mix which requires a greater intensity of care than that for other hospitals in the same classification. Directs the Secretary to establish a five-member Hospital Transitional Allowance Board. States that the function of such Board shall be to act on the applications of hospitals for reimbursement of expenses incurred in the retirement or conversion of underutilized facilities. Requires that such conversion promote efficient and economical delivery of services covered by the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Sets forth criteria for determining the reasonable charge which may be made for physicians' services, and medical services, supplies and equipment under the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Establishes a plan for the reimbursement of physicians under which participating doctors of medicine or osteopathy would accept the assignment of patients' claims for reimbursement under the Medicare program. Requires the Secretary to establish procedures for expediting the payment of such assigned claims to physicians. Promulgates an incentive payment to encourage physicians to participate in the program of assignment of claims. Sets forth the conditions under which anesthesiologists, pathologists, and radiologists may be paid under the Medicare and Medicaid programs for patient care services which they personally perform or direct. Authorizes payment, under the Supplementary Medical Insurance Benefits program of Medicare, for antigens prepared by an allergist for a particular patient. Prohibits, under both the Medicare and Medicaid programs, the making of any payment which may be made directly to a physician to a person claiming such payment under an assignment. Permits the Secretary to make agreements with the States under which the services of a State health agency will be utilized for the purpose of determining whether an institution in such State qualifies as a skilled nursing facility for purposes of the Medicaid program. Sets forth procedures for determining the reasonable cost and reasonable charge for services under the Medicare and Medicaid programs and under the program of Maternal and Child Health and Crippled Children's Services. Specifies those items of cost which may not be included in a claim for reimbursement for services. Promulgates standards under which payment will be made to health maintenance organizations under the Medicaid program. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to public or nonprofit private regional pediatric respiratory centers affiliated with institutions of higher learning for training and instruction in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of respiratory diseases in children and young adults and in providing health care services to children and young adults suffering from such diseases. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for the making of such grants for fiscal year 1977 and the succeeding four fiscal years. Increases the criminal penalties for the crimes of receiving or offering kickbacks or bribes in connection with the furnishing of services under the Medicare or Medicaid programs.
United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1976
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the United States is willing to participate in efforts to provide financial assistance to Italy through the proposed OECD Special Financing Facility with the assistance of other friends and allies of Italy.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Authorizes the Secretary of Labor, under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, to make visits to the work place of any employer, upon the request of the employer, to consult with and advise the employer concerning the obligations of the employer under such Act. Directs the Secretary to give priority to small business and hazardous workplaces. Stipulates that no consultative visit made under this Act may serve as an inspection or investigation as otherwise provided for by the Occupational Safety and Health Act, except: (1) in the case of an employer who fails to eliminate a danger disclosed during such a visit; or (2) if conditions are found during such a visit which indicate the probability that death or serious harm could result to employees therefrom, the Secretary may notify the employer of such conditions and afford him a reasonable time to eliminate such conditions. Prohibits the transmission of information obtained during a consultative visit to representatives of the Secretary engaged in enforcement. Directs the Secretary to establish education programs to inform employers and employees of the hazards in particular industries. Authorizes the appropriation of funds through fiscal year 1978 for the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Black Lung Benefits Reform Act - Amends the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969 to establish a rebuttable presumption that miners with 25 or more years of coal mine employment shall be entitled to receive benefits under provisions of the Act. Stipulates that claims for benefits may be filed with the Secretary of Labor after the enactment of this Act if the date of the last exposed employment of the eligible miner occurred before December 30, 1969. Stipulates that no claim for benefits shall be denied based on location or nature of employment. Stipulates that decisions by administrative law judges in favor of a claimant are not appealable, except upon motion of the claimant. Directs the Secretary of Labor to establish a program designed to locate and assist individuals who are likely to be eligible for benefits under this Act. Stipulates that individuals so informed shall be eligible to file a claim despite previous failure to file within the specified time frame. Redefines the term "total disability" to prohibit use of the fact that a deceased miner was still a mine employee at the time of death as evidence that such miner was not totally disabled. Stipulates that criteria for determination of total disability shall not be more restrictive than disability insurance criteria listed in the Social Security Act. Requires that all claimants be given an opportunity for a complete medical examination by a physician of the claimant's own choice. Establishes a Black Lung Disability Insurance Fund in the Treasury of the United States. Sets forth provisions governing administration of the Fund. States that amounts in the Fund shall be available for making expenditures to meet the obligations acquired by the Fund, including the expenses of providing medical benefits. Requires coal mine operators to pay premiums into the Fund according to rates prescribed by the Secretary of Labor and based on the number of tons of coal mined by each operator. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for the initial operating expenses of the Fund. Directs the Secretary to establish procedures for prompt action on claims. Increases the amount of the award for delays beyond the 60-day period established by this Act. Stipulates that payments from the Fund to miners shall include the costs of medical care and services. Authorizes the appropriation of $2,500,000 for fiscal year 1976 for the construction and operation of clinical facilities. Transfers the Division of Coal Mine Workers' Compensation to the Department of Labor.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1976
Increases to 80 percent the Federal share of financial assistance to community action agencies under the Community Services Act of 1974.
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1976
Amends the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to include in the Renewable Resource Program, national program recommendations which take into account specified policy objectives. Requires the Secretary to provide for public participation in the formulation and review of proposed land management plans for units of the National Forest System. Directs the Secretary to promulgate regulations that set out processes for the development and revision of land management plans. Requires that such regulations specify procedures to insure that plans are prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act and guidelines. Authorizes the Secretary to appraise and sell so much of the trees and other forest products found upon National Park System lands as may further the policies set forth in the Multiple Use and Sustained Yield Act and the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources and Planning Act. Repeals the requirement that such forest products be sold for use only in the State or territory in which the timber reservation from which such products were taken is located. Increases to $10,000 in appraised value the maximum value of timber and cord wood which the Secretary may sell without advertisement.
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1976
Veterans' Care Equalization Act - Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to furnish assistance for the construction of nursing home facilities to States in which there is no Veterans' Administration hospital or domiciliary facility. Stipulates that a State receiving such assistance must provide reasonable assurance that the portion of the facility constructed with such assistance will be used principally for veterans and that not more than 50 percent of the bed occupancy at any one time will consist of patients who are not receiving care as veterans.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1976
Provides for the relief of Carlos F. Martinez.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1976
Provides for the relief of Allen D. Ray.
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1976
Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to authorize the appropriation of $7,000,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 for the construction of waste treatment works.
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1976
Amends the Social Security Act to authorize payment under the medicare program for specified services performed by chiropracters, including X-ray, and physical examination, and related routine laboratory tests.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1976
Requires the United States Postal Service to consider specified factors in determining the need for an existing third- or fourth-class post office. Sets guidelines relating to such determinations.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1976
Dissapproves the proposed deferral of budget authority (deferral numbered D 76-103) for construction grants to public schools in Indian reservation areas set forth in the special message transmitted by the President to the Congress on February 6, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1976
Opportunities Industrialization Centers Job Creation and Training Act - States that the purpose of this Act is to provide special authority for the Opportunities Industrialization Centers in order to create and provide job opportunities for specific unemployed persons who were particularly hard hit by the recent economic recession, and to provide opportunities for industry to create additional jobs for the unemployed in rural and urban communities. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to enter into a contract with Opportunities Industrialization Centers, Incorporated (OIC) in order to provide comprehensive employment services and jobs for unemployed persons. Requires each such contract to contain provisions assuring that specific requirements are complied with, including requirements that (1) special consideration in providing jobs will be given to unemployed persons who are most severely disadvantaged in terms of the length of time they have been unemployed; (2) due consideration will be given to persons who have participated in manpower training programs for whom unemployment opportunities would be otherwise unavailable, and (3) the program will to the maximum extent feasible contribute to the elimination of artificial barriers to employment and occupational advancement. Sets forth special conditions to be met prior to providing financial assistance pursuant to a contract entered into under this Act. Requires the programs to contribute, to the maximum extent feasible, to the occupational development or upward mobility of individual participants. Prohibits the Secretary from providing financial assistance unless he determines that: (1) periodic reports will be submitted to him to measure the effectiveness of the programs; (2) there will be no discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, political affiliation, or beliefs within the program, and (3) the participants in the program will not be employed in the construction, operation, or maintenance of sectarian religious facilities. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act of $150,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $200,0000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $300,000,000 for fiscal year 1979, and $350,000,000 for fiscal year 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1976
Energy Conservation Act - Directs the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration to prescribe guidelines for the development and preparation of proposed State energy conservation programs. Stipulates that such guidelines be designed to allow States maximum flexibility and discretion in preparing such programs. Requires that States be given an opportunity to participate in the drafting of such guidelines. Authorizes the Administrator to provide Federal financial assistance to States whose proposed energy conservation programs meet specified Federal criteria. Stipulates that such assistance may be in the form of loan guarantees, interest subsidies, or grants. Lists factors to be considered in determining the amount of such assistance. Stipulates that no State shall receive more than 12.5 percent of the national total in each category of financial assistance. Establishes the following limits on financial assistance under this Act: (1) loan guarantees- shall not exceed an aggregate of $10,000,000,000 at any one time; (2) interest subsidies to residential and small business consumers-authorizes an appropriation of not more than $90,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $180,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and $360,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 1979 and 1980; and (3) grants to States-$50,000,000 annually for fiscal years 1977 through 1980. Specifies the following criteria for State programs as a pre-condition of receiving Federal financial assistance under this Act: (1) limits the maximum term of loan guarantees or subsidies to 15 years or the anticipated useful life of any permanent facilities, whichever is shorter; (2) requires procedures for energy audits and distribution of resultant information to consumers; (3) requires incentives for the implementation of energy conservation measures by individual owners and tenants; (4) demonstration that such program is designed to achieve maximum energy savings in the shortest possible time; and (5) reasonable assurance that the financial interest of the United States will be protected. Authorizes States to encourage the development of energy conservation cooperatives of residential energy consumers as part of their energy conservation programs.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1976
Designates April 8, 1976, as "National Food Day". Authorizes and requests the President to issue a proclamation to promote public involvement in order to develop a national food policy guided by the needs of people, both in the United States and abroad.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1976
Expresses the solidarity of the American people in efforts to enlarge human freedom by the participants in the second Brussels conference, February 17 to 19, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1976
National Diabetes Advisory Board Act - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish a National Diabetes Advisory Board to insure the implementation of the long-range plan formulated by the National Commission on Diabetes to combat diabetes. Specifies seven Federal health officers as members of the Board, in addition to seven health professionals and five members of the general public to be appointed by the Secretary. Makes provision for staffing and compensation. Authorizes the Board to enter into contracts or other arrangements, or to take such other action as may be necessary to carry out its functions. Authorizes the Board to engage in and sponsor activities, collect data, and provide technical assistance as it deems necessary and advisable in the performance of its functions. Requires the Board to submit simultaneously to the President and Congress an Annual Diabetes Report describing Board activities in the prior year and progress made in diabetes research, treatment, and education with specific reference to the long-range plan to combat diabetes mellitus and suggesting recommended future expenditures and legislation. Authorizes the appropriation of $500,000 for fiscal year 1976 and such sums as necessary for each of the four fiscal years thereafter. Authorizes the Secretary to make distinguished scientist awards to individual scientists who have shown continuous and outstanding productivity in diabetes research for the purpose of continuing such research. Limits the amount of each grant to no more than $35,000 per year. Authorizes the appropriation of specified amounts for the purpose of making such grants in fiscal years 1976-1980. Authorizes, under the Public Health Service Act, the appropriation of specified sums in fiscal years 1977-1981 for the purpose of making grants to centers for research and training in diabetes mellitus and related endocrine and metabolic disorders.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1976
National Center for Women Act - Establishes a National Center for Women as an independent agency of the Executive branch: (1) to review and coordinate Federal programs to insure equal opportunity for women; (2) to serve as a clearinghouse for information on public programs and legislation of interest to women; and (3) to recommend to the President and Congress proposals to improve the status of women. Directs the establishment of a National Board of Advisors within such Center, which members shall be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Directs the Board of Advisors to maintain effective liaison with public agencies and other organizations concerned with the status of women. Transfers to the Administrator of such Center the functions of: (1) the National Commission on the Observance of International Women's Year; (2) the Citizen's Advisory Council on the Status of Women established under Executive Order 11126; (3) the interdepartmental Committee on the Status of Women established under Executive Order 11126; (4) the Women's Bureau of the Department of Labor; (5) the Women's Action Program of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare; and (6) the Women's Rights Program Unit of the Civil Rights Commission. Creates within the Center an Intergovernmental Task Force on the representatives of specified executive departments and independent regulatory agencies. Directs such Task Force to assist in the evaluation and coordination of Federal programs for women and to develop procedures to insure equal rights to women within Federal agencies. Directs each Federal agency to review regulations, policies, and procedures of its programs to assure full participation and equal opportunity for women.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1976
National Health Research and Development Act - States the congressional finding that cigarette smoking is a principal health threat and that the harmful factors in cigarette smoke are tars and nicotine. Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish a fifteen-member National Health Research and Development Advisory Commission for the purpose of advising the President and Congress on the overall status of the national health research effort and making recommendations on the course and priorities of future health research and development. Outlines the procedures for members' appointment to the Commission. Requires the Commission, in addition to its other functions, to conduct studies relating to health research and development or the application and dissemination of health technology as the President or Congress may request or as the Commission deems necessary. Requires the Commission to report its conclusions and make recommendations at least once every two years to the President and Congress. Directs the Commission to make recommendations to the President and Congress on the distribution of moneys in the National Health Research and Development Fund established by this Act. Authorizes the appropriation, for fiscal years 1977-1981, of those amounts determined by the Secretary of the Treasury to be equivalent to the revenue from the cigarette tax created by this Act, such amounts to be used for research and projects in the areas to be studied by the Commission. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose a health research and development tax on cigarettes, such tax to be initially imposed in calendar year 1977, at the rate of $0.0002 for each milligram of tar and $0.002 for each milligram of nicotine. Steps up the rate of tax in each succeeding year, the final rate to be instituted in 1980, imposing a tax of $0.0005 for each milligram of tar and $0.005 for each milligram of nicotine. Directs the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission, at least once each calendar year, to certify to the Secretary of the Treasury or his delegate, the tar and nicotine content of each brand of cigarettes manufactured in or imported into the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1976
Postal Reorganization Act Amendments - Authorizes appropriations for the United States Postal Service for fiscal year 1976. Requires the Postal Service, in requesting the appropriation of funds authorized under this Act, to submit specified information to the appropriate congressional committees. Directs that all revenues and fees collected by the Postal Service be deposited in the general fund of the Treasury of the United States. Directs the Postal Service to provide door or curbline delivery to all permanent residential addresses during any fiscal year for which the Congress has appropriated all of the funds authorized to be appropriated to the Service. Allows cluster box delivery service in lieu of door or curbline service where the appropriate unit of local government has approved the provision of cluster box service. Requires the President to appoint members of the Postal Rate Commission, with the advice and consent of the Senate. Increases to ten months the time limit for recommended decisions by the Commission on requests submitted by the Postal Service for alteration of rates, fees or mail classifications. Revises criteria regarding maximum temporary rates and fees established by the Postal Service where the Commission exceeds such time limit. Allows temporary changes in rates, fees, and mail classification to remain in effect up to 150 days after the Commission transmits its recommended decision to the Postal Service. Includes among the factors to be considered by the Commission in making a recommended decision on a request for changes in rates, fees, or service the educational, cultural, scientific, and informational value to the recipient of mail matter. Stipulates that final Commission action pertaining to rate and service complaints and to requested rate, service, and mail classification changes shall be taken by a vote of the majority of the Commissioners. Requires the Postal Service to keep the Commission fully and currently informed with respect to the operation of the Postal Service. Empowers the Commission to initiate reviews and hearings relating to the activities of the Board of Governors and the Postal Service in connection with the fixing of postal rates and mail classifications. Includes within periodical publication, as that term is used in defining second-class mail: (1) catalogs and course material which are part of post bar admission education; and (2) looseleaf pages or reports which are part of a reporting service concerning developments in the law or public policy. Redefines "qualified nonprofit organization", "agricultural", and "agricultural organizations", for purposes of preferential postal rates. Qualifies specified State conservation publication for such rates. Permits any member of a private nonprofit organization (other than a political committee) to deposit any mailable matter relating to the activities or functions of such organization in any letterbox, postage free if: (1) such member engages in such activity on a voluntary basis without reimbursement from such organization; and (2) such organization has obtained written approval to engage in such activity from the postmaster for the district in which such activity is to be conducted. Authorizes appointment of the Postmaster General and Deputy Postmaster General by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Establishes the Commission on Postal Service. Directs the Commission: (1) to study the public service functions of the Postal Service and recommend to what extent and by what means such functions may be defined and costs thereof reasonably estimated; (2) to identify any difference between the costs that the Postal Service should reasonably expect to incur in providing services in accordance with codified policy directives and the revenues that the Postal Service may reasonably be expected to receive from rates and fees for such services; and (3) to determine, the extent to which the public service functions of the Postal Service should be supported by appropriations. Instructs the Commission to study present ratemaking procedures and develop recommendation's for more expeditious and economical procedure, and to determine the causes of the increases in postal costs that have occurred since the enactment of the Postal Reorganization Act. Requires all proceedings of the Commission to be open to the chairman of the appropriate Congressional committees or their designees and notice of such proceedings to be given to such chairmen or designees. Requires the Commission to transmit to the President and to each House of the Congress detailed interim progress reports four times annually, and a final report containing a detailed statement of its findings and recommendations, together with any individual views, within two years after the date of the enactment of this Act. Terminates the Commission's existence 60 days after the transmission of its final report. Requires that expenses incurred by the Commission be paid out of the Postal Service Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1976
Disapproves the proposed deferral of budget authority (Deferral D/76-97) for Indian health facilities set forth in the special messages transmitted by the President to the Congress on January 23, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1976
Amends the Education Amendments of 1972 to exempt Boys State, Boys Nation, Girls State and Girls Nation conferences, from the sex discrimination provisions of such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 January 1976
Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to enter into contracts through September, 1977 for the sale of timber from national forest lands in Alaska.
United States · United States Congress · 19 December 1975
Provides that a charitable organization shall be denied exemption from taxation under the Internal Revenue Code where amounts paid or incurred by such organization during each taxable year to influence legislation exceed specified sums of money, or where a significant portion of the activities of such organization consists of carrying on propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation. Designates charitable organizations to which this Act applies, and defines the term "influencing legislation". Disallows deductions to charitable organizations where the contribution is made for the purpose of influencing legislation.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Expands the definition of air traffic controller, for purposes of Federal employment benefits, to include an employee of the Department of Transportation who is actively engaged in providing preflight, inflight, or airport advisory service to aircraft operators. (Amends 5 U.S.C. 2109)