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Official portrait of Sen. Heinz, John [R-PA]

Sen. Heinz, John [R-PA]

United States · Official source

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3,686 records where Sen. Heinz, John [R-PA] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Bill· SS. 979 (98th)open

Export Administration Act Amendments of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1983

Amends the declaration of policy and the congressional findings of the Export Administration Act of 1979. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to require export licenses for multiple exports. Requires the Secretary to establish and maintain a control list indicating license requirements for exports to countries subject to export controls. Prohibits the President from imposing export controls on goods or services which are available in sufficient quantities from foreign sources so as to render such controls ineffective. Authorizes the President to prohibit or control the transfer of goods or technologies within the United States to embassies and affiliates of countries subject to national security export controls. Requires the Secretary to identify on the control list which goods and data are subject to which types of export controls. Emphasizes keystone materials in developing a list of militarily critical technologies. Terminates the use of qualified general export licenses for national security controls. Requires reductions in the export controls over products of militarily critical technology and keystone equipment after adequate controls are established for such technology and equipment. Requires the Secretary to determine whether goods or technology are available from sources outside the United States in sufficient quantity and of comparable quality so as to render export controls ineffective. (Current law refers to goods or technology in sufficient quantity and of sufficient quality.) Directs the President to actively pursue negotiations over the foreign availability of such goods or technology. Authorizes the Secretary to issue regulations for periodically removing controls which are based on the anticipated needs of the military of countries to which exports are controlled for national security purposes. Modifies the objectives of the United States in negotiations with the governments of the Coordinating Committee for multilateral export controls. Requires that the Secretary of State be responsible for conducting negotiations with other countries including those countries not participating in the Coordinating Committee. Prohibits export controls on donations of articles intended for the relief of human suffering unless such donations are coerced. Prohibits the President from prohibiting or curtailing exports for foreign policy purposes if such goods or technology are to be exported subject to a sales contract which was entered into before such controls were imposed and which requires delivery within a specified period, unless the President determines that permitting such exports would prove detrimental to overriding national interests. Deletes the short supply controls relating to refined petroleum products, domestically produced crude oil, horses, red cedar, recyclable metals, and articles which are subject to barter agreements. Grants the Commerce Department 14 rather than ten days to complete the initial screening of an export license application. Requires the processing of an application to be completed in 60 rather than 90 days if the application does not require interagency review. Requires the Secretary to inform applicants who are denied licenses what modifications, if any, would make the export license permissible. Imposes penalties for conspiracies to violate the Export Administration Act of 1979 and for attempts to violate the Act. Prohibits possession of goods or technology with intent to export them contrary to the Act. States that whoever violates any national security controls may be subject to controls on importing goods or technology into the United States or its possessions. Provides for the forfeiture of property interests and any proceeds obtained as a result of violations of national security controls. States that no person convicted of espionage shall be eligible, at the Secretary's discretion, to apply for or use any export license for up to ten years from the date of conviction. Makes technical amendments to the enforcement and the annual reporting provisions of the Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1984 through 1987. Provides that the authority granted by such Act shall terminate on September 30, 1987.

Bill· SS. 948 (98th)open

Comprehensive Forfeiture Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1983

Comprehensive Forfeiture Act of 1983 - Amends the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Statute (RICO) to specify that property subject to forfeiture for racketeering activity includes: (1) all proceeds obtained directly or indirectly from racketeering activity; (2) real and tangible and intangible personal property; and (3) positions, offices, appointments and benefits obtained through illegal activity. Makes property forfeitable to the United States upon the commission of the act giving rise to forfeiture. Permits the forfeiture of property which has been transferred to a third party, but includes a provision protecting innocent bona fide purchasers. Authorizes a court to order the forfeiture of substitute assets of the defendant where the original property cannot be located or traced. Authorizes a court to take appropriate action preserving the availability of property during the pre-indictment period effective for up to 90 days. Specifies the circumstances under which a temporary restraining order may be entered without notice to the affected party. Authorizes the Attorney General to grant petitions for remission or mitigation of forfeiture. Directs the Attorney General to establish regulations governing the restitution and disposition of forfeited property. Amends the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 to establish general criminal forfeiture provisions for felony violations under titles II and III. Includes provisions similar to the RICO amendments of this Act, relating to property subject to forfeiture, third party transfers, asset substitution, pre-indictment orders, and remission. Authorizes a court to issue a warrant authorizing the seizure of property subject to forfeiture in the same manner provided for a search warrant, if other injunctive relief would not assure the availability of the property. Provides that a criminal forfeiture proceeding shall stay any civil forfeiture proceeding with respect to the same property. Establishes in the Treasury of the United States, the "Drug Assets Forfeiture Fund" and the "Customs Forfeiture Fund." Transfers the proceeds from the sale or other disposition of the forfeited property into these accounts. Grants law enforcement authority to customs agents.

Bill· SS. 951 (98th)open

Health Care for the Unemployed Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1983

Amends title XX (Block Grants to States for Social Services) of the Social Security Act to authorize a State to establish a program for providing health care coverage for unemployed workers. Authorizes a State to choose who will be covered, the duration of the coverage, and the duration of the program, except that: (1) to be eligible, an individual must have received, be receiving, or have been eligible for unemployment compensation within specified time periods; (2) coverage is prohibited for the first six weeks of eligibility for unemployment compensation; (3) an individual must have been enrolled in a group health plan at his or her last place of employment; and (4) no coverage may be provided to an individual eligible for Medicaid (title XIX of the Act). Provides coverage only for inpatient and outpatient emergency hospital services and physician services. Authorizes premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance amounts to be charged. Authorizes appropriations for two 12-month periods beginning June 1, 1983, and June 1, 1984. Sets forth reporting requirements. Provides for Federal matching payments of at least 80 percent, but no more than 95 percent. Provides that a State's unemployment offices shall determine program eligibility and that such State's Medicaid agency shall administer health benefits. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to deny 50 percent of the deduction allowed for employer-sponsored health benefit plans if the employer does not provide an open enrollment period if the spouse or parent of an employee becomes unemployed.

Bill· SS. 964 (98th)open

Animal Welfare in Research Study Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1983

Animal Welfare in Research Study Act of 1983 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to arrange for the National Academy of Science, if willing, to conduct a study of the use of live animals in biomedical and behavioral research. Requires certain information from the study. Directs the Secretary to transmit a report concerning the study to specified congressional committees, and to make the report available to the public.

Bill· SS. 888 (98th)open

Economic Equity Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1983

Economic Equity Act of 1983 - Title I: Tax and Retirement Matters - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that the maximum deduction for contributions to an individual retirement plan: (1) shall be computed separately for each individual who is married; and (2) in the case of a married individual who has no compensation or less compensation than that of the spouse, shall be determined as if such compensation were the same as that of the individual's spouse. Treats alimony as compensation for purposes of determining an individual's income tax deduction for retirement savings. Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) and the Internal Revenue Code to require that a retirement plan that provides an annuity to a participant with at least ten years of creditable service shall provide a survivor's annuity for the spouse of a participant who dies before the annuity starting date in an amount not less than the amount that would have been made under the survivor's annuity if the participant has survived and retired on such annuity date. Provides that a participant's election not to take a joint and survivor's annuity shall not be effective unless the spouse of the participant consents in writing to such an election. Requires a retirement plan to treat an individual who was the spouse of the participant on the annuity starting date and who survives the participant as if such individual were the spouse of the participant on the date of death of the participant whether or not divorced after the annuity starting date. Allows the assignment of the benefits of a qualified retirement plan in the case of a judgment decree or order relating to child support, alimony payments, or marital property rights pursuant to a State domestic relations law. Amends ERISA to lower the age limitation for participation in a qualified retirement plan from age 25 to age 21. Amends ERISA and the Internal Revenue Code to provide for accruals of creditable service to continue while an individual is on approved maternity or paternity leave at the rate of 20 hours service for each week of approved leave. Entitles former spouses of civil service employees or Members of Congress, who were married to an employee or Member for at least ten years during creditable service, to an annuity based upon a portion of retired or retainer pay unless otherwise provided by a spousal agreement or a state court decree of divorce or annulment. Entitles former spouses to survivor's benefits under the civil service plan unless the former spouse remarries before becoming 60 years of age or the employee or Member and former spouse elect to waive such benefit. Requires that such waiver be jointly made in writing. Includes displaced homemakers as a targeted group for purposes of the targeted jobs tax credit. Defines "displaced homemaker" as a person who: (1) has not worked, except in the home, for a substantial number of years; (2) has been dependent on public assistance or on the income of a family member but is no longer supported by that income; and (3) is a member of an economically disadvantaged family and is experiencing difficulty obtaining or upgrading employment. Increases the zero bracket amount for heads of households from $2,300 to $3,400. Title II: Dependent Care Program - Increases the income tax credit for household and dependent care services from a maximum of 30 percent of amounts paid to a maximum of 50 percent of amounts paid. Reduces such percentage to a minimum of 20 percent based on the taxpayer's adjusted gross income. Makes such income tax credit refundable. Treats as tax-exempt organizations certain organizations which provide nonresidential dependent care to the general public. Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (through the Commissioner of the Administration of Children, Youth, and Families) to establish a grant program to assist nonprofit organizations in the establishment or operation of community-based child care information. Title III: Nondiscrimination in Insurance - Nondiscrimination in Insurance Act of 1983 - 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. Permits insurers who regularly provide insurance solely to persons of a single religious affiliation to continue to do so. Grants to State or local governments having insurance discrimination laws the primary opportunity to enforce this Act. Permits an aggrieved person to file a civil action in State or Federal court against an insurer, if a State or local authority: (1) has received notice of a complaint and fails to act within 60 days; or (2) has no insurance discrimination laws. Authorizes the Attorney General to bring a civil action in district court when there is reasonable cause to believe that a person or group is engaged in a pattern or practice of resistance to the rights granted by this Act and that such denial raises an issue of general public importance. Title IV: Regulatory Reform and Sex Neutrality - Requires the head of each Federal agency to: (1) conduct an ongoing review of the rules, regulations, programs, and policies of the agency to identify any which result in different treatment based on sex; and (2) submit annually a report to the Congress on such review. Sets forth rules of statutory construction relating to gender. Title V: Child Support Enforcement - Amends the Social Security Act to specify that the purpose of the child support enforcement program is to assure compliance with obligations to pay child support to each child in the United States living with one parent. Allows offsets of income tax refunds of an absent parent on behalf of children not receiving Aid to Families with Dependent Children (present law permits such offsets only in the case of children receiving AFDC payments). Requires States to establish a child support clearinghouse through which child support payments can be paid, recorded and forwarded. Revises State child support enforcement procedures. Allows allotments for child and spousal support to be taken from the pay of Federal employees.

Bill· SS. 891 (98th)referred

Federal Land Retention Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1983

Federal Land Retention Act of 1983 - Requires Executive agencies to comply with specified inventory, public comment and review, and governmental notification procedures before offering Federal lands for sale. Requires that Federal lands included within specified public land systems be sold at fair market value only in accordance with this Act and only with congressional approval under the Federal Land Policy Management Act of 1976. Authorizes conveyances of specified Federal lands for recreational purposes to government units or nonprofit organizations at no cost or for up to 25 per cent fair market value without Congressional approval. Subjects such conveyance to specified conditions under the Recreation and Public Purposes Act of 1976.

Bill· SS. 869 (98th)open

Export-Import Bank Amendments of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1983

Export-Import Bank Amendments of 1983 - Title I: Amendments to the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 - Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 in order to direct the Bank to provide guarantees, insurance, and extensions of credit at fully competitive rates and terms as those available to foreign competitors of U.S. exporters. Declares that loans made by the Bank shall bear interest at rates determined by the Board of Directors in order to support U.S. exports at rates and on terms and conditions which are fully competitive with exports of other countries. States that the Advisory Committee, established under such Act, shall; (1) consist of 12 members (currently nine); and (2) meet at least once each quarter (currently once or more each year). Requires the Committee to submit a report to Congress concerning the extent to which the Bank is providing competitive financing to expand U.S. exports and suggestions for improvements. Authorizes members of the Committee to attend meetings of the Board of Directors on a rotating basis. Sets forth the terms of office for members of the Board of Directors. Sets forth the limits on the gross obligations for the principal amount of direct loans authorized by the Bank for FY 1984 and 1985. Extends the authorization for the Bank until September 30, 1989. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to complete an inquiry into the existence of foreign noncompetitive financing within 60 days following the receipt of information concerning such financing. Authorizes the Secretary to issue an authorization to the Bank to provide matching financing to U.S. exporters upon a determination that the availability of such foreign noncompetitive financing is likely to be a significant factor in a proposed transaction. Requires the Bank to provide such matching financing upon receipt of the Secretary's authorization. Prohibits the Board of Directors from giving final approval for any loan, financial guarantee or combination of both which exceeds $250,000,000, unless the Bank has submitted a certain statement to Congress describing and explaining the transaction. Title II: Mixed Credit Export Subsidies - Trade and Development Enhancement Act of 1983 - Requires the President to pursue negotiations to limit and set rules for the use of mixed financing for exports. Lists the negotiating objectives of the United States in reaching agreements on the use of such financing. Requires the Chairman of the Bank to establish a program of mixed financing for U.S. exports within the Bank. Requires such program to be carried out in cooperation with the Agency for International Development and with appropriate private financial entities. Lists the types of financing the program may include. Declares that the purpose of the program shall be to offer financing for U.S. exports which is as concessional as financing offered by a foreign government to a bona fide foreign competitor of a U.S. export sale. States that U.S. exports which could reasonably be judged to have been offered at the lowest evaluated bid shall be eligible for concessional mixed financing. Authorizes the Chairman to establish a fund to carry out this program. Requires the Administrator of the Agency for International Development (AID) to establish a program of mixed financing for U.S. exports. Directs that the program be carried out in cooperation with the Bank and with private financial entities. Lists the financing authorized for such program. Authorizes the combination of AID funds with Bank or private financing to provide financing for U.S. exports which is substantially as concessional as that offered by a foreign government to a bona fide competitor for a U.S. export sale. Requires that AID funds be offered only to finance U.S. exports which will contribute to the advancement of the developing objectives of the importing country. Authorizes the Administrator to draw on Economic Support Funds and to establish a fund to carry out the mixed financing program. Requires the President to appoint an individual to coordinate and ensure the implementation of both mixed financing programs. Authorizes appropriations.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 95 (98th)passed

A resolution to express the sense of the Senate that the President should initiate negotiations on a new long-term agreement on agricultural trade with the Soviet Union.

United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1983

Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President should: (1) report to Congress on his intention to begin negotiations on a new long-term agricultural trade agreement with the Soviet Union; (2) seek, in such a new agreement, higher minimum and maximum supply guarantees and a provision for the export of value-added products; (3) report to Congress, by a specified date, on the potential economic and employment impacts of such a new agreement on U.S. agriculture and related industries; and (4) take appropriate measures to assure free movement of increased quantities of U.S. agricultural products to the Soviet Union.

Bill· SS. 863 (98th)open

Enterprise Zone Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1983

Enterprise Zone 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 75 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 (within a population of at least 50,000) or 1,000 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 June 30, 1986 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 the Secretary to prepare and submit to the Congress every four years a report on the effects of such enterprise zones' designation. 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. Exempts enterprise zones from certain requirements relating to Federal environmental policy. Title II: Federal Income Tax Incentives - Subtitle A: Credits for Employers and Employees - 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. Allows employees located in enterprise zones a nonrefundable income tax credit equal to five percent of qualified wages earned per year (taking into account a maximum of $9,000 in wages per year). Phases out such credit in the last three years of the enterprise zone designation. 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: 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.

Bill· SS. 849 (98th)open

Industrial Revitalization Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1983

Industrial Revitalization Act of 1983 - Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to authorize any person filing a petition for eligibility for import relief to elect an alternative procedure. Requires any applicable petition to allege any material injury (or threat thereof) to which imports contributed importantly, in lieu of alleging serious injury. Requires the International Trade Commission to make a preliminary determination regarding such injury within 45 days of the receipt of the applicable petition. Requires the Commission to conclude the investigation if no reasonable indication of material injury is found. Requires the Commission to continue the investigation and order the initiation of the adjustment plan process upon finding such reasonable indication of injury. Requires the Chairman of the Commission to establish an adjustment plan development group (with specified members) if such an order is issued. Requires the adjustment plan development group to establish a plan designed to enable any industry affected by the applicable petition to adjust to changing economic conditions resulting from imports or otherwise. Sets forth certain requirements for such plans. Requires adjustment plans to recommend to the Commission actions which the Commission may take or recommend if the Commission finds the requisite injury. Authorizes such plans to provide for adjustment assistance to individuals or firms. Requires the approval of a majority of individuals in each adjustment plan development group before treating the plan as an agreed upon plan. Declares that any discussions or actions taken by any person pursuant to an adjustment plan shall not be treated as a violation of any Federal or State antitrust law. States requirements for the final determination of orders. Requires the Commission to take certain factors into account in determining an appropriate remedy for import relief. Requires the President to provide the import relief recommended by the Commission. Requires that any import relief ordered under the alternative procedures shall continue for the same period as relief ordered under any other petition. Authorizes the Commission to revoke such relief if the adjustment plan has not been materially implemented by businesses or employees. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to establish an adjustment plan implementation review board for each agreed upon adjustment plan. Sets forth the duties of such review board, including preparing Federal legislation required by the plan. Requires the President to notify Congress and publish notice in the Federal Register of an intention to propose legislation for any adjustment plan.

Bill· SS. 842 (98th)open

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to provide tax incentives for the issuance of small business participating debentures.

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1983

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to treat as long-term capital gain amounts actually paid to a taxpayer with respect to a small business participating debenture which constitute the distribution of a share of earnings of the issuer. Defines "small business participating debenture" (SBPD) as a written debt instrument issued by a qualified small business which: (1) is a general obligation of such business; (2) bears interest at not less than specified by the Secretary of the Treasury; (3) has a fixed maturity; (4) grants no voting or conversion rights in the business to the purchaser; and (5) provides for the payment of a share of the issuer's total earnings. Defines "qualified small business" as one: (1) whose equity capital does not exceed $10,000,000; (2) the face value of whose outstanding SBPD's does not exceed $1,000,000; and (3) which has no outstanding securities subject to regulation by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Allows an interest expense deduction for interest and share of earnings payments made on such debentures. Treats losses on small business participating debentures as ordinary losses.

Bill· SS. 846 (98th)reported

Unemployed Homeowners' Mortgage Assistance Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1983

Unemployed Homeowners' Mortgage Assistance Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, acting through the Government National Mortgage Association, to guarantee the payment of the principal and interest on second mortgage loans made to assist homeowners in avoiding foreclosure on their first mortgage loans. Restricts eligibility for such second mortgage loan guarantees to mortgagors who: (1) have lost income as a result of involuntary unemployment or underemployment due to adverse economic conditions and are, therefore, unable to make full mortgage payments; (2) are in default on mortgages on their principal residence; and (3) maintained good mortgage payment practice prior to becoming unemployed. Permits the Secretary to make such a guarantee only if: (1) foreclosure would result without such assistance; and (2) there is a reasonable prospect that the mortgagor will be able to resume making full mortgage payments. Limits the amount of a guaranteed loan to the amount required to cover the payments due for three months preceding, and up to 24 months following, the date of the loan. Requires that the mortgagor make partial payments of up to 15 percent of the payments on the first mortgage during the period of the guaranteed loan. Conditions any second mortgage loan guarantee on agreement by the lender to: (1) assume the first 25 percent of any loss; and (2) place the loan proceeds in escrow for payments on the first mortgage and interest payments to the lender. Requires a mortgagor to begin repaying any guaranteed loan not later than the end of 24 months after the date the loan was executed and to pay the loan in full within 12 years. Directs the Secretary to make a guarantee under this Act upon a lender's certification that: (1) the loan and the mortgagor meet the requirements of this Act; (2) the mortgage is secured by a lien on the mortgagor's principal residence; and (3) the lender has provided credit counseling to the buyer.

Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 63 (98th)referred

A joint resolution to end the conflict in Northern Ireland and achieve the unity of the Irish people.

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1983

Declares that Congress: (1) condemns the violence in Northern Ireland; (2) urges U.S. citizens to refrain from any action which contributes to the violence there; (3) urges an early political settlement there that secures the rights of both sides and that achieves Irish unity; (4) believes that a reconciliation can be found between the two Irish political traditions and between Britain and Ireland; and (5) requests the President to convey to Britain and to Ireland the desire of Americans for lasting peace in Northern Ireland.

Bill· SS. 832 (98th)open

Age Discrimination in Employment Amendments of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1983

Age Discrimination in Employment Amendments of 1983 - Amends the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 to remove the existing 70-year upper age limit of the class to which the discrimination prohibitions apply, thus extending coverage to all individuals who are at least 40 years of age. Allows compulsory retirement of tenured faculty of an institution of higher learning until July 1, 1998. Delays the effect of this Act for employees under a collective bargaining contract until January 1, 1987, or the termination of such contract, if earlier.

Bill· SS. 816 (98th)open

A bill to extend the Superfund legislation for five additional years, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1983

Amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 ("Superfund") to extend the authorization of appropriations to the Hazardous Substance Response Trust Fund ("Response Trust Fund") for five additional years, through FY 1990. Provides that so much of the aggregate amount authorized to be appropriated from FY 1985 through 1989 as has not been appropriated before FY 1990 shall be added to the specified amount authorized to be appropriated for FY 1990. Makes a conforming amendment extending by five years the period to be covered by the Secretary of the Treasury's annual report to the Congress on the management of the Response Trust Fund. Extends the authority to collect taxes conferred by such Act through FY 1990. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for five-year extensions of provisions for an environmental tax on petroleum.

Bill· SS. 811 (98th)open

Health Care for Displaced Workers Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1983

Health Care for Displaced Workers Act of 1983 - Establishes a State block grant program to provide unemployed workers and their families with health care benefits directly or through insurance or otherwise. Defines "eligible unemployed worker" as a person who: (1) is entitled to regular, extended, or Federal supplemental compensation; (2) has exhausted such benefits within the past 12 months, and is still unemployed; and (3) was a participant in an employer-supported group health plan. Creates a 52- week eligibility period (after workers' compensation eligibility has been exhausted). Bases a State's allocation upon its figures (as compared to national figures) of unemployed, excess unemployed (in excess of six percent), and persons unemployed for 15 weeks or more. Sets forth State application requirements and nondiscrimination provisions. Requires withholding of funds, after notice and hearing opportunity, for noncompliance. Requires the Secretary to conduct fund use investigations in several States annually. Authorizes the Comptroller General to conduct fund use investigations. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1986.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 90 (98th)passed

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the Soviet Government should immediately release Anatoly Shcharansky and allow him to emigrate.

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1983

Expresses the sense of the Senate that Anatoly Shcharansky should be released from prison in the Soviet Union and permitted to emigrate to Israel. Urges the President and the Secretary of State to express U.S. opposition to the imprisonment of Anatoly Shcharansky.

Bill· SS. 772 (98th)open

Smoking Prevention Health and Education Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1983

Smoking Prevention Health and Education Act of 1983 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to inform the public of the health hazards of cigarettes through research, demonstration, and educational activities. Establishes an Interagency Committee on Smoking and Health to coordinate such Federal and private activities. Requires the Committee to meet at least four times a year. Directs the Secretary to report annually to Congress on the status of health and smoking in the United States. Makes it a misdemeanor (with maximum $10,000 fine) to manufacture, import, or package cigarettes without first filing a list of chemical additives (types and amounts) with the Secretary. States that such information shall be considered a trade secret. Requires the Secretary to report at least annually to Congress regarding cigarette additives and their health hazards. Amends the Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act to change existing label warning provisions to require cigarette packages to carry one of four specified warnings on a rotating basis according to Federal Trade Commission rules. Makes it unlawful to manufacture, import, or package cigarettes commercially without disclosing tar, nicotine, and carbon monoxide levels on the package.

Bill· SS. 786 (98th)open

Vietnam Veterans Agent Orange Relief Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1983

Vietnam Veterans Agent Orange Relief Act - Establishes a presumption of service-connected disability for veterans exposed to herbicides during service in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam era who suffer from specified diseases which may be caused by exposure to such herbicides, developed to a ten percent degree of disability. Permits the Administrator of Veterans Affairs to determine what other diseases may be due to exposure to herbicides, chemicals or environmental hazards. Directs the Administrator to promulgate regulations within one year of enactment incorporating such determinations and setting forth the standards used to reach them.

Bill· SS. 749 (98th)open

A bill to improve worker training under the Trade Act of 1974, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1983

Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to require the Secretary of Labor to approve job training assistance for workers adversely affected by imports. (Currently the Secretary is authorized to approve such training). Directs the Secretary to pay a daily supplemental assistance benefit to any worker who begins approved job training after enactment of this Act and who is not eligible for trade adjustment allowances. Increases the maximum job search and relocation allowances to $800. Establishes an Adjustment Assistance Trust Fund in the Treasury. Authorizes appropriations to the Trust Fund, payable out of the general fund of the Treasury attributable to the collection of customs duties, to carry out provisions for adjustment assistance for workers. Amends the Federal-State Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 1970 to amend the definition of "suitable work" for a worker who would be eligible for a trade readjustment allowance if the worker were not eligible for extended compensation. Establishes the Office of Trade Adjustment Assistance in the Department of Labor. Directs that such office be headed by the Assistant Secretary for Trade Adjustment, who shall be appointed by the President. Makes conforming amendments. Transfers the Office of Trade Adjustment Assistance in the Employment and Training Administration of the Department of Labor to the Office of Trade Adjustment Assistance established by this Act. Terminates the position of Director of the Office of Trade Adjustment Assistance.

Law· SS. 746 (98th)enacted

Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor Act of 1984

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1983

Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor Act of 1983 - Establishes the Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor. Establishes the Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor Commission, which shall administer the corridor. Requires the Commission to: (1) assist the State of Illinois and nonprofit organizations in preservation, treatment, and renovation of canal structures; (2) assist Illinois in establishing and maintaining intermittent recreational trails which are compatible with economic development interests in the corridor; (3) encourage owners of property in or adjacent to the corridor to retain a strip of natural vegetation between recreational trails and development in the corridor; (4) assist in the preservation and enhancement of Natural Areas Inventory prepared by the Illinois Department of Conservation; (5) enhance public awareness and appreciation of the historical, architectural, and engineering structures and the archaeological and geological resources and sites in the corridor; (6) assist in the restoration of historic buildings in the corridor which have economic development potential; (7) assist in the interpretation of the cultural and natural resources of the corridor; (8) assist in the promotion of the corridor resources; (9) encourage enhanced economic and industrial development in the corridor; and (10) ensure that access routes to the canal are identified and that corridor traffic is routed away from industrial access routes and sites. Authorizes the Commission to finance the installation of protective features in the corridor. Requires the Commission to encourage Illinois to ensure that owners and users of property in or adjacent to the corridor will not be subject to excessive liability in connection with activities which affect persons and property in the corridor. Requires the Commission to prepare an economic impact assessment with respect to any major action, including the expenditure of funds, involving capital improvements or the acquisition of real property. Requires the Commission to report annually on its activities to the Governor of Illinois and to the Secretary of the Interior. Sets forth restrictions on the development by the Commission of sites or structures in the corridor and trails along the canal or its towpath. Terminates the Commission ten years after the enactment of this Act. Permits the Commission to extend its own life under certain conditions. Requires the Secretary to: (1) conduct specified inventories; (2) develop a thematic structure for interpretation of the heritage corridor story; (3) design and make interpretive materials; (4) provide feasibility studies for the rehabilitation of at least six historical structures in the corridor; (5) provide brochures on the tax advantages connected with such rehabilitation; and (6) detail to the Commission two Department of the Interior employees. Directs Federal agencies whose activities affect the corridor to consult and cooperate with the Secretary and the Commission. Requires the United States to release to Illinois all Federal interests in real property associated with the canal. Authorizes the release to Illinois of Federal interests in the canal prism and towpath within the Illinois and Michigan Canal State Park for park, recreational, or public purposes. Requires a reversion of such interests if such property is not used for such purposes. Authorizes appropriations to the Commission and the Secretary.

Bill· SS. 744 (98th)reported

A bill to amend the Small Business Act to increase the program level for funding 301(d) small business investment companies, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1983

Amends the Small Business Act to increase from $35,000,000 to $45,000,000 the amount in direct purchases of debentures and preferred securities which the Small Business Administration is authorized to make with respect to small business investment companies in FY 1983 and 1984.

Bill· SS. 704 (98th)referred

A bill to establish the Crime Victim's Assistance Fund.

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1983

Establishes within the U.S. Treasury a Crime Victim's Assistance Fund administered by the Attorney General. Deposits in the fund fines paid by individuals convicted of Federal offenses. Requires 50 percent of the fund to be distributed to qualifying State crime victim's assistance funds and the remaining 50 percent to be distributed at the discretion of the Attorney General to support Federal victims and witness assistance programs.

Bill· SS. 712 (98th)open

A bill to exclude from social security coverage services performed by members of certain religious sects.

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1983

Amends the Internal Revenue Code and title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to extend the exemption from OASDI and hospital insurance taxes on self-employment income which is applicable to self-employed individuals who are members of a recognized religious sect which is conscientiously opposed to the OASDI and hospital insurance systems to employees of such individuals who belong to the same religious sect.

Bill· SS. 695 (98th)open

International Lending Supervision Act of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 7 March 1983

Amends the Bretton Woods Agreements Act to authorize the U.S. Governor of the International Monetary Fund to consent to a specified increase in the quota of the United States in the Fund. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· SS. 689 (98th)reported

Natural Gas Policy Act Amendments of 1983

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983

Natural Gas Policy Act Amendments of 1983 - Title I: Findings and Purpose - Sets forth: congressional findings concerning natural gas, and the purposes of this Act. Title II: Amendments to the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 - Amends the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 to add to the definition of Btu. Sets forth a method of determining the number of Btu's per unit volume of natural gas. Defines definite price provision, indefinite price provision, market-out provision, and take-or-pay provision, for purposes of the use of such terms in a contract for the first sale of natural gas. Requires the price under any contract for the first sale of natural gas in effect on November 8, 1978, to remain the price after November 8, 1978, unless the contract expressly and specifically by its plain language authorizes prices established by Congress, in which case any price not in excess of the applicable maximum lawful price may apply. Repeals the annual inflation adjustment factors. Provides that the maximum lawful price for any first sale of natural gas shall be deemed to include all costs necessary to, or associated with, the delivery of marketable natural gas to the purchaser. Authorizes an adjustment to the seller for necessary costs which deprive the seller of a just and reasonable return. Authorizes the purchaser an adjustment if the purchaser provides the seller consideration in addition to the maximum lawful prices. Establishes a transportation rate of no less than $0.05 per million Btu's and requires all revenues in excess of such amount to be credited back to the pipeline's customers. Declares null and void all indefinite price provisions in all contracts for the first sale of natural gas. Deems all contracts for the first sale of natural gas which is affected by deregulation to include a market-out provision. Deems all take-or-pay provisions in effect as of enactment to be reduced by 50 percent. Declares null and void any first sale contract which restricts the right of the purchaser to contest the contract. Requires all first sale contracts to be filed with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and made available to the public. Confers jurisdiction on the FERC to resolve contract disputes, on petition by any party to a contract. Directs the FERC to promulgate a final rule establishing the interest rate at which refunds shall be paid by natural gas companies on any collections made in excess of approved rates. Directs the FERC to undertake and complete a comprehensive study of minimum bill and related provisions in interstate pipeline tariffs.

Bill· SS. 687 (98th)open

A bill to amend the Federal Supplemental Compensation Act of 1982 to increase the number of weeks of compensation.

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983

Amends the Federal Supplemental Compensation Act of 1982 to increase the amount established in a Federal supplemental unemployment compensation account with respect to an individual's benefit year. Increases the number of weeks, during specified types of unemployment periods in a State, for which benefits are payable to an individual under the Federal supplemental unemployment compensation program. Extends such program payments through weeks beginning on or before September 30, 1983. Makes conforming changes in the period of eligibility for such program payments and in provisions for agreements with States.

Law· SJRESS.J.Res. 51 (98th)enacted

A joint resolution designating May 21, 1983, as "Andrei Sakharov Day".

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1983

Designates May 21, 1983, as National Andrei Sakharov Day. Authorizes and requests the President to: (1) call upon all nations to designate May 21, 1983, as National Andrei Sakharov Day; (2) urge the Soviet Union to permit the Sakharovs to freely choose their place of residence; and (3) direct the American delegation to the United Nations to introduce a resolution in the General Assembly calling upon that body to designate May 21, 1983, as International Andrei Sakharov Day.

Bill· SS. 657 (98th)open

Improved Standards for Laboratory Animals Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1983

Improved Standards for Laboratory Animals Act - Amends the Animal Welfare Act to revise the humane standards for animals transported in commerce. Requires each research facility to establish an institutional animal studies committee with sufficient expertise to assess the appropriateness of animal care and treatment in experimental research. Requires the committee at each facility to: (1) meet regularly, with a quorum needed for all formal actions; (2) make inspections at least semiannually of animal study areas and facilities; (3) review and evaluate the research methods involving direct use of conscious animals and the condition of research animals in order to ensure compliance with humane standards and to minimize pain and distress; and (4) file with the Secretary of Agriculture and the appropriate Federal agency a certification that such inspections have occurred (includes in such certification a report of any violations of standards). Requires the committee to notify, in writing, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the Department of Agriculture and any appropriate Federal agency of unacceptable conditions of animal care, treatment, or methodology not included in the certification. Directs the committee to provide for annual sessions for scientists, animal technicians, and other qualified personnel to provide instruction or training in humane standards for laboratory animals. Prohibits discrimination against research facility employees for reporting violations of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to waive certain standards under exceptional circumstances. Directs the Secretary to establish an information service at the National Agricultural Library to provide information on improved methods of animal experimentation, including: (1) reducing or replacing animal use; (2) minimizing pain and distress; and (3) preventing unnecessary duplication of animal experimentation. Requires a research facility to provide a statement of assurance of compliance with humane standards to the Secretary and the appropriate Federal agency before requesting a Federal award for animal research, experimentation, or testing. Sets forth terms and conditions under which the agency may approve or suspend such award.

Bill· SS. 654 (98th)open

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to treat deductions for research and experimental expenses attributable to activities conducted in the United States as allocable to income from sources within the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1983

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit U.S. businesses with operations in foreign countries to treat all of their domestic research and experimental expenses as deductions against U.S. source income. (Current IRS regulations require the allocation of a portion of such expenses against foreign source income.)