United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Debt Collection Act of 1981 - Amends the Privacy Act of 1974 to permit a Federal agency to disclose individual records to a consumer reporting agency. Authorizes a Federal agency attempting to collect a claim under the Federal Claims Collection Act of 1966 to notify a consumer reporting agency that a person is responsible for a claim if: (1) the agency has sent a written notice informing the person that a consumer reporting agency will be contacted, describing the information to be disclosed, and explaining the person's right to dispute the agency's claim; (2) the person has not agreed to repay the claim or filed for review of the claim; (3) the agency, upon request, has reviewed the claim; and (4) the agency has obtained assurances that the consumer reporting agency complies with Federal laws governing the provision of consumer credit information. Requires the agency to notify the consumer reporting agency promptly concerning any change in the status or amount of the claim. Directs Federal agencies to require any individual applying for credit or financial assistance, which may result in indebtedness to the Government, to furnish his or her social security numbers. Authorizes an agency (including the United States Postal Service) to deduct installment payments from the pay of an employee or member of the Armed Forces or Armed Forces Reserve to offset any debts owed the Government. Limits the amount deducted to 25 percent of the individual's disposable pay. Makes murder or manslaughter of a Federal debt collector a Federal offense. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to authorize the Secretary of the Treasury to disclose to a Federal agency: (1) information concerning the tax liability of a Federal loan applicant; and (2) the mailing address of a taxpayer for use by employees or agents of the agency in collecting or compromising a Federal claim. Increases the rate of interest on delinquent taxes to 100 percent (currently 90 percent) of the prime rate quoted by commercial banks to large businesses. Permits the annual (currently biennial) adjustment of such interest rate. Allows the Government to collect claims by administrative offset beyond the six year statute of limitations on actions brought by the Government for money damages. Directs each agency to charge a minimum annual rate of interest on outstanding debts and to assess a penalty charge and handling costs on delinquent claims, except where another statute, statutorily mandated regulation, loan agreement, or contract either prohibits or explicitly fixes interest or penalty charges. Declares that service of legal process brought for the collection of U.S. claims shall be accomplished in accordance with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure or as directed by the court. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to: (1) direct each agency with outstanding debts to submit to the Director and the Department of the Treasury an annual report on the status of the agency's loans and accounts receivable; and (2) report to Congress annually on the management of agency debt collection activities.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from gross income $1,000 ($2,000 for joint returns) of the interest earned on an All Savers Certificate in taxable years 1981, 1982, and 1983.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Airport and Airway Revenue Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise the rate of tax imposed on fuel used in noncommercial aviation. Extends such tax to October 1, 1985. Reduces the airline ticket tax for individual travel from eight to three percent and the tax on the transportation of property from five to two percent. Extends the latter tax to September 30, 1985. Reinstates, and increases the rate of, the tax on the use of international travel facilities. Extends, to October 1, 1985, the tax on the taxable use of civil aircraft in commercial aviation. Amends the Airport and Airway Revenue Act of 1970 to continue the transfers of such taxes to the Airport and Airway Trust Fund until October 1, 1985. Extends, to such date, the availability of Trust Fund assets for specified expenditures.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Coal Utilization Incentives Act of 1954 - Title I: Amendments to the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit the amortization of coal utilization property, based on a 36 month period. Defines "coal utilization property" as tangible depreciable property which is: (1) a coal-burning boiler or burner which replaces a natural gas or oil burning boiler or burner; (2) equipment for converting a natural gas or oil burning boiler or burner to a coal-burning one; or (3) pollution control equipment required for such boiler or burner. Allows an investment tax credit to public utilities for coal utilization property. Qualifies coal utilization property for the full investment tax credit allowed for pollution control facilities with a useful life of not less than five years. Excludes from gross income the interest income on industrial development bonds issued to provide financing of powerplant coal utilization capital expenditures. Title II: Coal Conversions Under the Clean Air Act - Amends the Clean Air Act to exclude as a modification a stationary source which voluntarily converts to coal (thereby excluding the source from new source performance standards).
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1981
Olympic Coin Act of 1981 - Declares the purposes of this Act to be: (1) to provide for the minting of coins to commemorate the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games; and (2) to help finance those games without the use of tax revenues. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint: (1) not more than 30,000,000 copper-nickel clad coins with a face value of one dollar; (2) not more than 22,400,000 silver coins with a face value of ten dollars; (3) not more than 2,400,000 gold coins with a face value of fifty dollars; and (4) not more than 1,600,000 gold coins with a face value of one hundred dollars. Specifies the size and weight of such coins. Specifies that the designs of such coins shall be determined by the Secretary in consultation with the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee. Sets certain minting specifications for such coins. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into an agreement with the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee which shall provide for the implementation of the purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary to furnish such coins to the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee at a price agreed to pursuant to such implementation agreement. Provides that all coins minted shall be delivered to the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee for distribution and sale to the public in accordance with the terms of the implementation agreement. Sets the delivery date for each series of coins. Provides that all proceeds received by the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee from the commercial sale of such coins shall be used for the purpose of staging and promoting the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games and assisting the U.S. Olympic Committee and amateur athletics. Provides that all coins authorized by this Act shall be legal tender. Directs that no coins shall be minted pursuant to this Act after December 31, 1984.
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1981
Urban and Rural Revitalization Act of 1981 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for the designation of revitalization areas, subject to the approval of the Secretary of Commerce, by local governments which agree to take actions designed to stimulate the development of business and jobs in the area. Increases from 15 to 100 the permissible number of shareholders in a subchapter S corporation which is a qualified business within the meaning of this Act. Defines "qualified business" as a trade or business which is actively conducted in a revitalization area and whose work force is at least half comprised of residents of such an area. Allows accelerated depreciation for qualified businesses under the straight line method by using: (1) for aggregate bases of $500,000 or less, a three year useful life; and (2) for aggregate bases exceeding $500,000, a ten year useful life (in the case of buildings or structural components) or a three year useful life for other property. Allows the full investment tax credit for such property despite election of accelerated depreciation. Reduces the alternative tax on corporate capital gains and increases the capital gains deduction. Permits property to remain qualified for purposes of the revised capital gains treatment after a designation of a revitalization area has terminated. Permits any qualified business to elect to use the cash receipts and disbursements method of accounting without regard to any inventory requirements. Allows an income tax credit for 12 percent of the wages paid during the taxable year to individuals who are employed in, and residents of, a revitalization area. Limits the wages considered for purposes of such credit to $15,000 for any individual.
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1981
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to reduce the excise tax on large cigars for fiscal years 1982 to 1983 and eliminate the tax thereafter. Revises the formula for determination of wholesale price, on which the excise tax is based.
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1981
State and Local Government Regulatory Cost Estimate Act of 1981 - Amends the Administrative Procedure Act to require the notice of proposed rule making by a Federal agency to include: (1) the costs to State and local governments resulting from the rule; (2) a statement of any available source of funds to pay such costs; and (3) a request for comments from State and local governments on such costs.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 1981
Malt Beverage Interbrand Competition Act - Declares that no antitrust law shall prohibit the importer, brewer, or trademark licensee of a trademarked malt beverage from entering into an agreement granting a wholesale distributor the exclusive right to sell such beverage within any defined geographic area within a State, or limiting such distributor to the sale of such beverage for ultimate resale to consumers in that area, when such beverage has substantial competition from other malt beverages in that area. Declares that this Act shall not affect any provision of State law.
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 1981
Uniformed Services Pay and Benefits Act of 1981 - Increases for members of the uniformed services according to specified schedules: (1) the monthly basic pay; (2) the basic allowance for subsistence; and (3) the basic allowances for quarters. Increases the monthly pay for cadets and midshipmen. Increases the incentive pay for the performance of hazardous duty by enlisted crew members according to a specified schedule. Increases aviation career incentive pay, particularly for specified officers who have frequently and regularly performed operational or proficiency flying duty required by orders for over 25 years. Excludes time spent as an enlisted member of the Navy when determining incentive pay for officers for the frequent and regular performance of operational submarine duty required by orders. Increases the special pay for diving duty. Permits a member to receive both such special pay and incentive pay for hazardous duty if such member is assigned by orders to perform specified duties. Permits an unserved period of an enlistment to be considered as part of an immediately subsequent term of reenlistment for bonus purposes. Requires that such bonus be paid in periodic installments (currently gives a member the option of lump sum payment). Permits nuclear-qualified officers of the naval service to execute a new active-service agreement for one period of not more than four years as specified. Permits the payment of special pay for the performance of unusually hazardous duty or duty performed under unusually severe working conditions. Permits the President to suspend such pay in time of war. Permits the payment of special pay to an officer of an armed force who has been certified by the Secretary concerned as having the technical qualifications for detail to engineering or scientific duty. Sets forth the terms and conditions for receiving such pay. Prohibits the payment of travel and transportation allowances to members upon separation from service or release from active duty unless such member has served at least 90 percent of the time such member originally agreed to serve. Exempts members who retire, who are placed on the temporary disability retired list, or who are discharged for hardship from such requirement. Permits the reimbursement of subsistence expenses incurred by a member of a uniformed service and the member's dependents during a period of up to four days while occupying temporary quarters incident to a change of permanent station. Limits the amount of such reimbursement to $110 a day. Permits the advance payment of departure, dependent transportation and dislocation allowances. Authorizes a member of a uniformed service who is denied leave between two tours of duty overseas because of military necessity to use travel and transportation allowances from his current duty station at the first time the member is granted leave. Permits the payment of allowances to a member of a uniformed service and authorized dependents serving at a specifically designated duty station abroad transportation to another location abroad having different social, climatic, or environmental conditions than those at the duty station, or to the United States. Permits the payment of roundtrip transportation expenses for a member stationed overseas and authorized dependents incident to emergency leave granted for reasons of personal emergency. Permits the payment of travel and transportation allowances to a uniformed service member performing temporary duty away from his permanent duty station for return to such station or another location. Entitles members of the Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program to an initial uniform allowance. Permits members of such program to be advanced up to one month's pay upon reporting for active duty. Permits the reimbursement of professional expenses incurred by an officer on active duty who is a judge advocate or law specialist of one of the armed forces. Establishes an annual limit to such reimbursement. Directs the Secretary of Defense to compare regular military compensation with the rates of pay for similar levels of work in private enterprise, rather than the General Schedule rates of basic pay for civilian employees when determining appropriate adjustments in compensation. Requires the President to prepare and submit to Congress an alternative plan for compensation adjustments when necessary because of national security considerations, national emergency, or economic conditions affecting the general welfare. Makes such alternative effective at the beginning of the applicable fiscal year unless either House adopts a resolution disapproving such alternative within 30 days of transmittal. Excludes involuntary leave taken by a member of an armed force during the appellate review of certain courts-martial convictions from the period of active service for purposes of determining leave entitlement and accumulation. States that such member may be required to begin such leave at any time on or after sentence is approved. Prohibits punishment before trial without regard to the effective date of sentences. Permits the accused to be represented by more than one military counsel as specified. Extends from 30 to 60 days the period during which an accused may petition the Court of Military Appeals for review of a decision of a Court of Military Review. Requires an application within two years of sentencing for modification or vacation of a sentence or findings in a courts-martial case which has been finally reviewed, but not review by a Court of Military Review. Increases the amount of reimbursement for quarters for a member of the uniformed service on sea duty deprived of quarters on ship. Increases the number of cadets and midshipmen who may be in financial assistance programs at any one time.
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 1981
Energy Assistance Block Grant Act - Adds a new title to the Social Security Act, title XXI (Block Grants for Energy and Emergency Assistance). Establishes the Energy Assistance Trust Fund in the Treasury. Appropriates amounts to the trust fund, through fiscal year 1985, out of amounts received from the windfall profit tax on domestic crude oil. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to report to Congress concerning the fund. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make allotments from the Fund to each State, from which a State must spend at least 90 percent for home energy assistance to assist individuals and families most in need, and to meet emergency income maintenance needs. Directs the Secretary to make payments in accordance with the Intergovernmental Cooperation Act of 1968. Requires a State, before a grant is made, to complete and publish a report after holding public hearings covering the use of funds available under this Act. Requires each report to: (1) include a program of coordinated delivery of weatherization and energy assistance; (2) give priority to the elderly, the handicapped, and those individuals who are neediest by virtue of having the lowest incomes and the highest energy costs in relation to income; (3) provide for outreach activities; (4) assure that those individuals eligible for assistance based on income eligibility under Federal law will not be treated differently from others not so eligible; (5) treat renters and homeowners the same; (6) provide that benefits be related to home energy costs in relation to income; and (7) prohibit benefits to households with incomes higher than the lower living standard income level or 125 percent of the poverty level, whichever is higher. Requires a State to annually report on and audit its expenditures. Repeals the Home Energy Assistance Act of 1980, specified provisions of part A (Aid to Families with Dependent Children) of title IV of the Social Security Act relating to emergency assistance, and the Emergency Energy Conservation Services program authorized pursuant to the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964.
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 1981
Monongahela and Upper Ohio River Waterways Improvement Act of 1981 - Directs the Secretary of the Army, through the Chief of Engineers, to replace specified locks and dams on the Monongahela River, Pennsylvania, to rehabilitate the Gallipolis Dam, Ohio and West Virginia, and to replace certain locks on the Ohio River. Directs the Chief of Engineers to mitigate fish and wildlife habitat losses resulting from such construction by purchasing, at Federal expense, specified land. Authorizes the Secretary to transfer such land to the State of West Virginia for operation and maintenance. Requires the Chief of Engineers to submit a final environmental impact statement to Congress prior to initiating such construction. Provides for veto of such impact statement by concurrent resolution of Congress within 60 days. Exempts such impact statement and actions to carry out such project from judicial review except as specified. Sets forth procedures for such expedited judicial review. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act. Authorizes the Chief of Engineers, pending appropriation of such sums, to allot, from existing Army Department civil works appropriations, such sums as are necessary for immediate improvements.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1981
National Home Weatherization Act of 1981 - Allows a State to submit an annual grant application requesting financial assistance under this Act for energy assistance and weatherization programs authorized under the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act, the Emergency Energy Conservation Act, the Energy Policy and Conservation Act, the National Energy Extension Service Act, and any other Federal law. Requires that 65 percent of such assistance be used for low-income weatherization assistance programs unless the Governor determines that an insufficient or limited need for such assistance exists in such State. Sets forth the circumstances under which a State application will not be approved. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to provide financial and technical assistance to States and Indian tribes to fund energy programs and State energy plans. Requires a State to submit a State energy plan in order to receive assistance under this Act. Requires that State energy plans contain: (1) a plan for coordinating and apportioning responsibilities for development and implementation of the State energy plans; (2) an implementation plan for a low- income weatherization assistance program; (3) a plan to coordinate the administration of various Federal low-income energy assistance programs; (4) a plan and a description of the proposed uses of funds for the implementation of the State energy plan; (5) a description of State energy supply and demand and State energy conservation goals and policies; and (6) a description of how the State and local governments plan to implement any other State energy programs. Directs the Secretary to approve a State energy plan or modification thereto unless the plan or modification fails to comply with this Act or with Federal law. Requires Federal agencies which produce or consume significant quantities of energy within a State to provide energy-related information to the State upon request. Directs a State to hold public hearings on the development of its first State energy plan and any plan modifications. Requires that a State give priority to the needs of the poor, the handicapped, and the elderly in its State energy plan. Directs the Secretary to provide written notice of and an opportunity for a hearing concerning: (1) disapproval of a State application for assistance, a waiver request under this Act, or a State energy plan or plan modification; or (2) a finding that a recipient of assistance has not complied with this Act or any other law. Authorizes the Secretary to suspend financial assistance upon issuance of such a notice. Prohibits the payment of financial assistance for any State energy plan or other activities if the Secretary makes a final determination of noncompliance. Sets forth the allocation of the funds available under this Act. Restricts the expenditures of such funds. Directs the Secretary to reserve a portion of the funds annually for the benefit of Indian tribes. Limits the total amount allocated for any State in any year to ten percent of the total allocation for all the States. Requires a State receiving financial assistance to provide local governments and regional councils with funds commensurate with their responsibilities with respect to the State energy plan. Permits a State to participate in interstate or multistate organizations that coordinate State energy plans. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982-1984.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1981
Expresses the sense of the Senate that Anatoly Shcharansky be released from prison in the Soviet Union, be given proper medical treatment, and be permitted to emigrate to Israel. Urges the President, the Secretary of State, and the U.S. delegation to the Madrid Conference on Security and Cooperation to continue to express U.S. opposition to the imprisonment of Anatoly Shcharansky.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1981
Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to prohibit a country from being treated as a beneficiary developing country with respect to all articles in a major group (as defined by the Office of Management and Budget) if the President determines that the country has exported to the United States more than a specified quantity of articles within such group during a calendar year. Prohibits a country's merchandise from being eligible for duty-free treatment if it is subject to antidumping or countervailing duties because of a finding of the International Trade Commission. Adds to the list of countries which cannot be designated beneficiary developing countries any country which imposes discriminatory restrictions on foreign investment or discriminatory trade restrictions on investment which burdens U. S. commerce. Authorizes the President to limit such restrictions to particular sectors, industries, or articles. Directs the President, in determining whether an article should continue to be designated a duty-free article, to determine whether such designation is appropriate considering the import sensitivity of that article due to specified factors. Directs the President to authorize continued duty-free treatment of a product with specified import sensitivity characteristics the domestic production of which is disproportionately small in relation to the duty-free import volume only if it is in the national economic interest. Authorizes any interested party to file a complaint with the U. S. Trade Representative alleging that: (1) a beneficiary developing country should be barred from its designation as a beneficiary developing country because of changed circumstances; or (2) specified factors justify limiting the application of duty-free treatment. Requires the review of such complaint by the Trade Representative and the President's determination of such complaint to be accomplished within a specified time. Requires reversal of the President's determinations if both Houses of Congress adopt a concurrent resolution disapproving such determination. Directs the Trade Representative to issue regulations regarding such complaints and to report to Congress semiannually on reviews of such complaints.
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1981
Delinquent Payments Act of 1981 - Requires Federal agencies to pay interest on overdue payments to businesses for property or services. Specifies the procedure for computing such interest. Requires an agency to pay any such interest charges out of funds appropriated for its programs. Allows an agency to take advantage of an early payment discount only if payment is made within the time specified by the business. Directs each agency to report to Congress annually on interest payments made during the fiscal year.
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1981
Export Administration Amendments Act of 1981 - Amends the Export Administration Act of 1979 to authorize appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 to carry out such Act. Prohibits any department or agency from withholding confidential information necessary for enforcement of such Act from any enforcement department or agency. Exempts census information from such prohibition. Increases the maximum criminal fine: (1) for violations of such Act; and (2) for failure to report that goods exported under a validated license are being used by the importing country for military or intelligence gathering purposes contrary to the license conditions. Makes such fines less for individuals than in other cases. Limits the civil fine for violations of such Act to $10,000 for individuals and to $100,000 in all other cases. Requires all information regarding export controls to be made available upon request to the appropriate Congressional committee and to the General Accounting Office (GAO). Prohibits such committee and the GAO from publishing any such information submitted on a confidential basis except under specified circumstances.
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1981
Product Liability Risk Retention Act of 1981 - Defines "risk retention group" to mean any corporation or insurance company formed under State law which: (1) is organized for the primary purpose of assuming and spreading product liability or completed operations liability risk exposure; (2) is chartered or licensed as an insurance company under State law; (3) does not exclude members for competitive advantage; and (4) consists of members whose principal activity is the manufacture, design, distribution, packaging or sale of a product. Defines "purchasing group" to mean any group of persons which has as one of its purposes the purchase of product liability or completed operations insurance on a group basis. Exempts risk retention groups and purchasing groups from State laws which prohibit, regulate, or otherwise discriminate against such groups. Enumerates requirements which a State may impose on a risk retention group, including compliance with unfair claims settlement practices laws, payment of taxes, and reporting requirements. Authorizes a State to license an agent or broker for a purchasing group. Stipulates that the ownership interests of members in a risk retention group shall not be considered securities or an investment company for purposes of the Federal securities laws or State blue sky laws.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1981
Design Liability Supplemental Protection Act of 1981 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an income tax deduction to any taxpayer furnishing professional design services for cash contributions to a service liability trust. Defines services liability as liability for tort damages attributable to negligence in, breach of warranty regarding, or defects in the professional construction or modification design of buildings or structures on real property. Limits the allowable deduction: (1) for a taxpayer with a severe service liability problem to a maximum of $100,000, or one of two specified formula sums, whichever is least; and (2) for a taxpayer with no severe liability problem to a maximum of $25,000, or one of two formula sums, whichever is least. Penalizes unauthorized distributions from such accounts except for: (1) corrective withdrawal of excess contributions; (2) distributions when a change of circumstances causes continued maintenance of such trust to have no trade or business purposes; (3) transfers of rollover amounts; (4) distributions following complete liquidation of the pertinent trade or business; and (5) certain sales deemed distributions. Limits the investment of account assets to: (1) Federal public debt securities; (2) nondefaulted State or local obligations; (3) time or demand deposits in certain Federally insured financial institutions; or (4) any other investment asset permissible under law of the State where such account is organized. Treats service liability loss reserves as amounts accumulated for the reasonably anticipated needs of a business, for purposes of avoiding the accumulated earnings tax.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1981
Regulatory Reform Act - Amends the Administrative Procedure Act to require the notice of proposed agency rulemaking to include: (1) a statement of the Congressional intent behind the rule; (2) a solicitation for public proposals for alternative methods; (3) a description of the data used in the rulemaking; and (4) a determination of whether the rule is a "major rule," as defined in this Act. Directs each agency to publish with such notice: (1) a description of the costs and benefits of and alternatives to the proposed rule; and (2) a justification for proposing the rule and selecting it over the alternatives. Requires agencies to give interested persons at least 60 days to submit written comments on any proposed rule and to make oral comments on major rules. Provides for a 30-day extension of such period. Directs each agency to publish with each final rule a statement of its basis and purpose, including an assessment of the public comments and a comparison of the costs, benefits, and adverse effects of the rule. Requires an agency officer or employee to prepare the rulemaking notice and the statement of the basis and purpose. Directs each agency to maintain, for judicial review, a public file of the paperwork and comments pertaining to each rulemaking proceeding. Allows an agency to promulgate an emergency rule without meeting the notice and comment requirements. Directs such agency: (1) to publish an explanation of the situation requiring the emergency rule and a justification of the emergency rule selected; and (2) to comply with normal rulemaking requirements as soon as practicable. Requires each agency to review its major rules every ten years. Directs each agency to: (1) publish and submit to the President a proposed review schedule; and (2) publish a final schedule within one year after enactment of this Act. Permits the President to select additional rules for review. Directs each agency to publish a notice of its proposed action regarding a reviewed rule. Requires that the notice: (1) assess the costs, benefits, and adverse effects of the rule; and (2) invite public proposals for modifications or alternatives to the rule. Requires an agency to follow normal rulemaking procedures when amending or rescinding a rule. Specifies procedures for renewing a rule without amendment. Directs a court reviewing an agency action to: (1) set aside any agency rule found to lack substantial support in the rulemaking file; (2) determine the authority or jurisdiction of the agency on the basis of the language of the authorizing statute or other evidence of legislative intent; and (3) accord no presumption in favor of or against agency action. Declares that when proceedings for review of the same agency action are instituted in two or more courts of appeals within ten days, the Administrative Office of the United States Courts shall select the court in which the record shall be filed by a system of random selection. Authorizes the courts not selected to grant preliminary relief pending transfer of their proceedings. Requires each agency to publish in the Federal Register, semiannually, an agenda of the rules the agency expects to propose, promulgate, renew, or withdraw within the next 12 months, including a schedule of the significant actions pertaining to each rule. Directs the President to publish, semiannually, a Calendar of Federal Regulations, listing each of the major rules included in the agenda.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1981
Older Americans Act Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to modify specified duties and functions of the Administration on Aging. Permits the Commissioner of the Administration to determine when review of and comment on Federal policies affecting the elderly is necessary. Eliminates the National Information and Resource Clearinghouse for the Aging. Repeals provisions relating to specified studies which have been completed. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 through 1984 for the Federal Council on Aging. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 through 1984 for grants for State and community programs on aging. Consolidates the authorization of such grants for social services and nutrition programs. Eliminates legal services from among the purposes for which such grants may be used. Allows a State's grant allotment to be used for the purchase of commodities from the Department of Agriculture. Revises the formula for such State grant allotments. Specifies that a State agency on aging is only responsible to the extent feasible to review and comment on State plans, budgets, and policies affecting the elderly. Permits a State which had previously functioned as a single planning and service area to designate additional planning and service areas within the State to be administered by area agencies on aging. Revises requirements for area plans to: (1) permit such plans to cover periods of two, three, or four years; and (2) modify review and comment responsibilities of area agencies on aging. Eliminates a requirement that a portion of allotted funds be expended for access, in-home, and legal services. Revises requirements for State plans to: (1) permit such plans to cover periods of two, three, or four years; and (2) eliminate evaluation of legal service needs of the elderly. Specifies that nutrition projects may include either meals in a congregate setting or home-delivered meals or both. Repeals a limitation on the use of nutrition services funds for social services. Eliminates requirements that a State plan: (1) provide for the delivery and coordination of legal services to the elderly; and (2) expend a specified amount to establish and operate a nursing home ombudsman program. Conforms State plan administrative provisions to the consolidation of separate authorizations. Eliminates the requirement that the Secretary of Agriculture maintain an annually programmed level in donating surplus commodities to nutrition services for the elderly grant or contract recipients. Extends through fiscal year 1984 the requirement that the Secretary of Agriculture purchase specified foods for distribution to nutrition services for the elderly. Eliminates the authorization of appropriations for such purchases. Requires that such purchases be made with funds taken out of State grant allotments. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with the Commissioner on Aging, to prescribe terms and conditions of such purchases. Repeals provisions for cash payments in lieu of donated foods. Conforms the social services and congregate and home-delivered nutrition services programs to the consolidation of authorizations. Includes the installation of security devices and structural modifications or alterations of the residences of elderly individuals under the social services grants and the discretionary grants programs. Eliminates the program of grants for training for legal assistance to the elderly. Eliminates a requirement that the Commissioner on Aging conduct a study of the different service needs and costs of rural and urban elderly persons. Directs (currently only authorized) the Commissioner to collect and disseminate research and development information. Eliminates specified types of demonstration projects to which the Commissioner is required to give special consideration. Adds to those projects which must continue to receive such consideration the prevention of unlawful entry into homes owned by the elderly (through security devices or structural modification). States that no funds may be obligated for demonstration projects to provide mental health services to older individuals if funds are appropriated to carry out specified provisions of the Mental Health Systems Act. Directs the Commissioner to report to the Congress at the completion of such demonstration projects. Eliminates the grants and contracts program for special demonstration projects on legal services for older Americans. Eliminates the grants program for utility and home heating costs assistance for the elderly demonstration projects. Eliminates the program of mortgage insurance and interest grants for multipurpose senior centers. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 through 1984 for training, research, and discretionary projects and programs for the elderly. Prohibits use of such funds for any project unless the Commissioner has notified the appropriate State agency on aging of the project. Removes the condition of having poor employment prospects as a requirement for participation in the older American community service employment program. Directs the Secretary of Labor to enter into agreements to provide second career training and placement in private employment for individuals eligible for such program. Revises requirements for distribution of national grants or contracts and for State allotments under such program. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 through 1984 to carry out such program. Requires Indian tribal organizations applying for grants for social and nutritional services for the elderly to inform each State agency on aging of such application. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 through 1984 for such grants to Indian tribes. Repeals specified provisions of the Comprehensive Older Americans Act Amendments of 1978 relating to continuation of assistance to nutrition service projects.
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1981
Title I: Amendments to Title 18, United States Code (18 U.S.C. 921-928) - Amends the Gun Control Act of 1968 to redefine: (1) "manufacturer" to mean any person engaged in the "business of manufacturing" (instead of "manufacture" of) firearms or ammunition; and (2) "dealer" to exclude dealers in ammunition. Adds a new definition "engaged in the business" with respect to manufacturers, dealers, and importers. Defines as a manufacturer or dealer of firearms a person who manufactures or deals in a regular course of trade or business with the principal objective of livelihood and profit. Excludes as dealers persons making occasional sales or repairs of firearms. Eliminates certain activities involving ammunition from the coverage of the current prohibitions. Makes it unlawful for any person to transfer any firearm to a person who does not reside in the same State, if the transferor has reasonable cause to believe that acquisition of the firearm by such person would violate any State or local law or ordinance. Revises the current prohibition against certain classes of persons transporting a firearm or ammunition in interstate commerce to extend such prohibition to possession or receipt in commerce or affecting commerce of any firearm or ammunition. Includes as additional categories illegal aliens, dishonorably discharged members of the Armed Forces, and U.S. citizens who renounce their citizenship. Excludes ammunition dealers from the current licensing requirements. Declares that a licensed dealer's personal collection of firearms shall not be subject to recordkeeping requirements. Permits the Secretary of the Treasury to revoke a license only where the holder "willfully" violates a provision of the Act. Bars the Secretary from denying or revoking a license on the basis of violations which are alleged in criminal proceedings instituted against a licensee, where such individual is not convicted of such charges. Imposes as a condition for the inspection or examination of records, documents, firearms, or ammunition that the Secretary has probable cause to believe that a violation has occurred and that evidence may be found on the premises. Restricts the firearms information obtained from licensees which the Secretary may make available to State or local governments. Establishes a limited recordkeeping requirement for firearms collectors. Establishes a "willful" scienter (knowledge) requirement with respect to general violations of the Act. Revises the current offense of using or carrying a firearm during commission of a Federal felony to: (1) include use of a destructive device; (2) delete the act of "carrying" a firearm to commit a felony; and (3) limit such offense to felonies over which the Federal courts have exclusive jurisdiction. Retains the current penalty (one to ten years) for first offenses. Increases the penalty for second or subsequent offenses to five to 25 years' imprisonment (currently, two to 25 years). Extends to first offenders the stipulations, currently applicable only to second offenders, that the court not suspend any sentence or grant probation. Deletes the prohibition against concurrent sentences. Prohibits the granting of parole to first and subsequent offenders. Declares that no person shall be subject to the additional, mandatory penalties if use of the firearm or destructive device was to protect persons or property. Amends the forfeiture provision to subject to seizure any firearm or ammunition "involved in or used" in any violation of the Act (instead of "involved in or used or intended to be used"). Directs the court to award attorney fees to the prevailing party (other than the United States) in a proceeding for the return of seized firearms or ammunition. Requires the court to award such fees in any other action upon a finding that the action was without foundation or was initiated in bad faith. Limits seizure to firearms individually identified as involved in the violation. Revises the current procedure allowing persons who have been convicted of a crime to apply to the Secretary for relief from the firearms prohibitions to make the following changes. Permits any person prohibited from possessing, shipping, transporting, or receiving firearms or ammunition to apply for relief. Requires, instead of permits, the Secretary to grant release, unless the applicant will be likely to act in a manner dangerous to public safety. Permits any person who is denied relief to seek de novo judicial review in Federal court. Makes the authority of the Secretary to permit importation of certain types of firearms and ammunition nondiscretionary. Extends the types of sporting firearms which may be imported. Amends the rulemaking authority of the Secretary to provide that no regulation may require the transfer of records required under this Act to a facility owned, managed, or controlled by the United States or any State or the establishment of any system of registration of firearms, firearms owners, or firearms transactions. Requires a 90-day public comment period for proposed regulations (no period is currently specified). Establishes a Congressional veto procedure with respect to firearms regulations. Authorizes either House of Congress to adopt a resolution of disapproval within 90 days of the rule's promulgation. Prohibits the Secretary from prescribing regulations which require purchasers of black powder to complete affidavits or forms attesting to their exemption from certain provisions of the Federal criminal code. Declares any law or regulation promulgated by any State prohibiting the transfer of an unloaded and not readily accessible firearm or ammunition null and void. Title II: Amendments to Title VII of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 - Repeals title VII of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act (relating to the receipt, possession, or transportation of firearms by felons, veterans dishonorably discharged, mental incompetents, illegal aliens, and persons renouncing their United States citizenship).
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1981
Pharmacy Protection and Violent Offender Control Act of 1981 - Amends the Controlled Substances Act to establish penalties for taking or attempting to take by force and violence or intimidation a controlled substance from a pharmacist. Establishes mandatory terms of imprisonment if any person is assaulted, killed, or maimed during commission of the offense. Requires the Department of Justice to include pharmacy crime data in its annual Uniform Crime Reports.
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1981
Prohibits the following conduct with respect to horseracing: (1) the entering of a horse in a race by its owner or trainer who knows or should know that the horse is drugged or numbed; (2) the drugging of a horse with reason to believe that it will compete in a race; and (3) the willful failure by the operator of a horseracing facility to disqualify or prohibit a horse from racing if such individual has been notified in accordance with this Act that such horse is drugged or numbed, was not available for testing, or has been suspended from racing. Sets forth the penalties for such acts, and provides increased penalties for second offenses, use of a dangerous weapon in committing such offenses, and the interference with duties or the falsification of records required by this Act. Provides for the disqualification of offenders from horseracing activities and the suspension of a drugged or numbed horse from racing, in accordance with specified procedures. Grants the Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration certain investigatory and other powers with respect to such offenses. Requires operators of horseracing facilities to comply with recordkeeping requirements established by the Administrator and to furnish testing space and facilities. Directs the Administrator to: (1) exempt from this Act any State which has enacted a comparable program; and (2) submit biennial reports to Congress on matters covered by this Act. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act. Permits the Administrator thereafter to assess fees upon operators of horseracing facilities to meet the costs of this Act. Amends the Federal criminal code to include the offenses of this Act in the existing prohibition against interstate and foreign commerce in aid of racketeering enterprises.
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1981
Coastal Barrier Resources Act - Declares the findings and intentions of Congress in regard to the fish, wildlife, and other natural resources associated with the coastal barriers along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States. Establishes the Coastal Barrier Resources System (System) which shall consist of specified undeveloped coastal barriers on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Requires that certain coastal barrier maps shall be available for public inspection through the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to provide copies of such maps to the chief executive officer of: (1) each State and political subdivision in which a System unit is located, and (2) each affected Federal agency. Directs the Secretary to make necessary modifications to such maps and to notify specified Congressional committees of the same. Limits, to specified projects, Federal expenditures on such projects or financial assistance for purposes within the System. Lists those projects eligible for financial assistance. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to certify annually to Congress that the Federal agencies concerned have complied with the provisions of this Act. Declares that no provision of this Act shall be construed to invalidate any provision of State or local law. Sets forth the contents of reports to be filed by the Secretary with specified Congressional committees. Authorizes appropriations to the Department of the Interior for fiscal years 1982 through 1986 for the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1981
Department of Energy Civilian Programs Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1982 and 1983 - Title I: Research and Development - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for Department of Energy operating expenses and capital equipment expenses not related to construction for programs with respect to: (1) fossil energy coal; (2) fossil energy oil; (3) fossil energy enhanced gas recovery; (4) conservation research and development; (5) solar energy research and development; (6) nuclear fission; (7) magnetic fusion; (8) geothermal energy; (9) electric energy systems; (10) energy storage systems; (11) supporting research and technical analysis; (12) life sciences research and nuclear medicine applications; (13) high energy physics; (14) nuclear physics; (15) high energy and nuclear physics program administration; (16) uranium enrichment process development; (17) uranium enrichment advanced isotope separation technology; and (18) environmental research and development. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for supply research and development plant and capital equipment for specified projects in programs with respect to: (1) fossil energy; (2) nuclear fission; (3) magnetic fusion; (4) geothermal energy; (5) supporting research and technical analysis; (6) high energy physics; (7) nuclear physics; (8) uranium enrichment process development; (9) uranium enrichment advanced isotope separation technology; and (10) environmental research and development. Title II: Conservation, Commercialization, and Related Activities - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for operating expenses for the renewable resources and conservation activities programs. Title III: Regulatory and Related Functions - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for: (1) the Economic Regulatory Administration; (2) the Office of Hearings and Appeals; (3) the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission; (4) the Energy Information Administration; and (5) the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Title IV: Power Marketing and Federal Leasing - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for expenses for the following power marketing programs: (1) the Alaska Power Administration; (2) the Southeastern Power Administration; (3) the Southwestern Power Administration; and (4) the Western Area Power Administration. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for expenses for the mineral fuels and petroleum and natural gas data program. Title V: Nuclear Assessment, Interim Spent Nuclear Fuel Management, and Commercial Waste Remedial Action - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for: (1) operating expenses and capital equipment not related to construction for uranium resource assessment; (2) plant and capital equipment for a specified project in the uranium resource assessment program; and (3) operating expenses and capital equipment not related to construction for interim spent nuclear fuel management and remedial action. Title VI: Other Renewable Resources and Conservation Activities - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for: (1) operating expenses for (a) fossil energy program administration and (b) international applications of solar technology; and (2) operating expenses and capital equipment not related to construction for the conservation activities, buildings, and community systems program. Title VII: Uranium Enrichment, Other Commercial Waste Management Activities, West Valley Demonstration Project Activities, and Three Mile Island Activities - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for: (1) operating expenses and capital equipment not related to construction for uranium enrichment; (2) uranium enrichment activities plant and capital equipment with respect to specified projects; (3) operating expenses for specified commercial waste management activities; and (4) operating expenses and capital equipment not related to construction for (a) the West Valley Demonstration project and (b) Three Mile Island activities. Title VIII: Departmental Administration - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for: (1) operating expenses and capital equipment not related to construction for departmental administration activities; and (2) departmental administration activities plant and capital equipment with respect to specified projects. Title IX: Authorization of Appropriations for Fiscal Year 1983 - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1983 for the programs in this Act. Title X: United States Energy Projections - Sets forth U.S. energy projections for 1985, 1990, 1995, and 2000. Repeals title III (Energy Targets) of the Energy Security Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1981
Declares the sense of the Congress that the President shall take steps to: (1) call upon the Soviet Union to permit the resurrection of the Ukrainian Orthodox and Catholic Churches; (2) contact the officials of the Soviet Union to secure freedom of worship in the Ukraine; and (3) bring to the attention of national and international religious councils Soviet violations of basic human rights.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1981
Amends the Federal Deposit Insurance Act to authorize the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, in order to reopen a closed bank, to prevent a closing, or upon the application of an insured bank, to make loans to, or purchase the assets or stock of, or make deposits in, such insured bank, upon such terms and conditions that the Board of Directors of the Corporation may prescribe.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1981
Amends the Tariff Act of 1974 to require the administering authority to impose an additional duty upon imported articles which are the products of a nonmarket economy country (a country which does not operate on free market economic principles such that sales of merchandise in certain countries do not reflect the fair value of the merchandise) and with respect to which the administering authority determines there is artificial pricing (prices for articles like domestically produced articles which are imported from a nonmarket economy country below the lowest free-market price of like articles). Sets forth the methods of initiating an artificial pricing investigation (replacing the current provisions for market disruption investigations). Prohibits initiation of such an investigation in certain cases where a countervailing duty or antidumping duty investigation is in process or where a countervailing or antidumping duty is in effect. Requires the administering authority to publish an artificial pricing duty order within a specified time after a final determination. Sets forth the information to be contained in such order. Specifies the merchandise which shall be subject to the imposition of such duties. Sets forth the manner of assessing and collecting such duties. Directs the administering authority to treat an artificial pricing investigation as if it had been commenced as a countervailing duty or antidumping duty investigation whenever the nonmarket economy country subject to such investigation furnishes the administering authority with certain verifiable information. Requires certain artificial pricing investigations which are treated as antidumping investigations to be conducted without regard to whether an industry is injured or to whether the establishment of an industry is materially retarded. Requires the administering authority, in a countervailing duty or antidumping duty investigation of a product of a nonmarket economy country which fails to furnish certain verifiable information, to: (1) terminate the countervailing or antidumping duty investigation and begin the artificial pricing investigations; and (2) notify the appropriate officials of such termination.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1981
International Trade and Investment Reorganization Act of 1981 - Establishes the Department of International Trade and Investment to be administered by a Secretary of International Trade and Investment appointed by the President. Directs the Secretary, among other things, to: (1) coordinate U.S. policies for promoting beneficial international trade relationships; (2) negotiate U.S. international trade agreements; (3) protect American industry, agriculture, and labor from unfair or injurious foreign competition; (4) develop trade monitoring systems; (5) develop and implement U.S. policies concerning foreign investments; and (6) administer the U.S. Customs Service and maintain the U.S. tariff schedules. Transfers to the Secretary all functions of: (1) the U.S. Trade Representative; (2) the Secretary of Commerce relating to specified agencies, specified Acts, and international trade and investment; (3) the Secretary of the Treasury relating to international trade and investment, economic analysis of international trade and investment policies, and the U.S. Customs Service; and (4) the Secretary of State relating to international trade investment. Transfers to the Department the: (1) U.S. Customs Service; (2) Export-Import Bank of the United States; and (3) Overseas Private Investment Corporation. Transfers to the Department of Housing and Urban Development the Economic Development Administration and the Office of Regional Development. Transfers the Maritime Administration to the Department of Transportation. Transfers the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to the Department of the Interior. Transfers the functions of the Director of the Census to the Director of the Bureau of the Census. Establishes an independent Bureau of the Census to be administered by a Director of the Census appointed by the President. Sets forth the Director's duties and functions. Amends the Trade Expansion Act to establish a Trade Policy Committee chaired by the Secretary of International Trade and Investment to assist the President in carrying out the functions vested in the President relating to trade agreements and import relief (replaces an interagency trade organization). Establishes the Trade Negotiating Subcommittee to advise the Secretary on management of international trade and investment negotiations. Sets forth administrative provisions applicable to the Department of International Trade and Investment. Directs the Secretary to submit a report annually to the President for submission to the Congress on the Department's activities. Provides for the transfer of personnel, assets, records, and funding to correspond with the transfers of functions, offices, and agencies made by this Act. Terminates: (1) any department or agency in which all the functions of such department or agency are transferred by this Act; (2) the Department of Commerce; and (3) the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. Makes certain technical and conforming amendments to specified Acts so that the provisions of such Acts reflect the executive reorganization made by this Act. Provides for: (1) the separability of provisions of the Act; (2) interim officer appointments; and (3) initial appointment of officers created by this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1981
National Export Policy Act of 1981 - Title I: General Findings and Purposes - Sets forth congressional findings and the purposes of this Act. Title II: Export Financing - Amends the Export - Import Bank Act of 1945 to establish staggered, ten-year terms of office for the Bank directors. Requires the House and Senate Appropriations Committees to consider limitations on Bank activities when considering appropriations for international trade activities rather than when considering foreign assistance activities. Title III: Export - Related Tax Policy - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the earned income exclusion for citizens working abroad, who are bona fide residents of a foreign country, from an annual rate of $20,000 to $50,000 plus 50 percent of such individual's compensation which exceeds $50,000 but does not exceed $75,000, if such persons qualify as bona fide residents for certain specified periods. Allows separate exclusions to married individuals who are both working overseas, although one's excess exclusion cannot be used against income earned by the other. Provides a tax exclusion for such individuals for the amount by which such individual's housing expenses exceed 16 percent of a GS-14, step 1 salary level for a Federal employee. Permits such individuals to include in the computation of housing expenses the costs of a second foreign household if such individual's family resides outside the United States but not with the individual because of adverse living conditions where the individual resides. Repeals similar deductions for cost-of-living differential, schooling expenses, home leave travel expenses, and residence in a hardship area. Excludes from an employee's gross income any lodging furnished the employee by an employer in a camp which meets specified requirements. Repeals the current provisions relating to deductions for certain expenses of living abroad. Provides that the foreign bad debt loss deduction shall not exceed the greater of 15 percent of the taxpayer's taxable income from exports, or two percent of the taxpayer's export receivables outstanding at the close of the taxable year. Provides that the amount of bad debt losses that may be added to a bad debt reserve shall not exceed five percent of the taxpayer's export receivables outstanding as of the close of the taxable year. Permits the amortization, based on a period of 60 months, of: (1) foreign market studies; (2) foreign marketing expenses; and (3) foreign patents. Permits an income tax deduction for currency fluctuation losses on export credit which have not been repaid by the end of the taxable year. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to extend the six-month deadline for exempting exports from the manufacturer's excise tax for an additional 12 months if it is determined, after consultation with the Secretary of State, that exports were delayed because of war, civil unrest, or similar adverse conditions in a foreign nation. Amends the Foreign Trade Zones Act to authorize the Secretary of Commerce to approve the duty-free entry of machinery, materials, and fuels to be used for the production of goods in a foreign trade zone if such goods are not subsequently entered into U.S. customs territory. Sets forth requirements before applications for such treatment will be approved. Makes such approval valid for six years. Requires the Foreign Trade Zones Board to include in its annual report to Congress a summary of activities and proposals to increase the use of foreign trade zones to expand U.S. exports. Makes banking organizations which have invested in an export trading company eligible for treatment as domestic international sales corporations (DISC). Includes the gross receipts from the export of services produced in the United States and from export trade services as qualified export receipts, in the case of a DISC which is an export trading company. Directs the Secretary of Commerce, with the Secretary of the Treasury, to develop and distribute information concerning the utilization of the DISC provisions. Makes export trading companies eligible for Subchapter S treatment if the shareholders of such companies are otherwise small business corporations. Exempts such companies from restrictions on the amount of foreign income they can receive and still be eligible for Subchapter S tax treatment. Title IV: Antitrust - Amends the Webb-Pomerene Act to exempt the export trade, export trade activities, and methods of operation of certified export trade associations and export trading companies from the antitrust laws. Delays the effectiveness of any certificate upon the notification of the Secretary of Commerce by the Attorney General or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) of disagreement with the decision to issue a certificate. Sets forth the procedure to be followed by any association, company, or export trading company seeking certification under this Act and by the Secretary in issuing such certificates. Permits automatic certification of existing associations. Provides for appeal of the Secretary's denial of certification. Authorizes the Attorney General or the FTC to bring an action to invalidate a certification. Requires the Secretary, in consultation with the Attorney General and the FTC, to publish guidelines for determining whether an association or export trading company will meet the certification requirements. Requires certified associations and export trading companies to submit annual reports to the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to establish within the Department of Commerce an Office of Export Trade. Requires such Office to report annually to the appropriate congressional committees on all East-West trade transactions requiring validated licenses and on the role of U.S. export trading companies in such trade. Grants a temporary exemption from the Sherman Act antitrust provisions for existing associations. Requires, with specified exceptions, that all applications for certification be kept confidential. Authorizes the Secretary to require an association or trading company to modify its operation to be consistent with international obligations of the United States. Directs the President to appoint, with the Senate's advice and consent, a task force, seven years after enactment, to examine the effect of this Act and to make recommendations. Directs the Attorney General to study whether: (1) U.S. business conduct to expand exports conflicts with basic antitrust principles; and (2) a more liberal enforcement policy for overseas activities would impede implementation of the antitrust laws. Requires the Attorney General to identify such conduct which would not warrant prosecution under the antitrust laws. Sets forth the procedures for describing such permissible conduct and disclosing such descriptions. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to intervene in such suits and to provide legal assistance to exporters. Prohibits prosecution under the antitrust laws of exporters who: (1) have notified the Attorney General of their intention to engage in such designated conduct; or (2) receive an approval, or no objection, from the Attorney General concerning proposed transactions. Requires the Attorney General and the Secretary of Commerce to report to Congress concerning implementation of this section. Authorizes appropriations for the Attorney General and the Secretary of Commerce for carrying out the simplification of antitrust procedures. Title V: Amendments to Other Laws That Hinder Exports - Changes the name to the Business Practices and Records Act. Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to require securities issuers to maintain an internal accounting system that provides reasonable assurance that specified accountability and accuracy goals are met. Establishes the degree of previous knowledge necessary to find liability for violations of the accounting standards. Requires only good faith efforts at ensuring compliance by issuers who hold 50 percent or less of the equity of domestic or foreign firms. Transfers from the Security and Exchange Commission to the Department of Justice jurisdiction to enforce the antibribery prohibitions of the FCPA with respect to issuers. Changes the jurisdictional basis of the current corrupt practices prohibition to prohibit bribery "with respect to activities in interstate or foreign commerce" (currently, the basis is use of the mails or interstate commerce "in furtherance" of bribery). Prohibits payments or promises made "directly or indirectly" by a domestic concern to a foreign official if they are made to influence a foreign official's act or induce such an official to violate a legal duty. Prohibits domestic concerns from directing or authorizing such payments. Exempts from such prohibition any payment to a foreign official to facilitate or expedite performance of official duties which is customary in the country where made. Enumerates additional exemptions, including items of value given in return for hospitality or in token of regard and esteem, and marketing or demonstration expenses pertaining to the business presentation. Empowers the Attorney General to undertake any civil investigation which is necessary to enforce the Act. Makes the provision in the Business Practices and Records Act the exclusive Federal law authorizing Federal proceedings against a domestic concern for using the mails or any instrumentality of interstate commerce to violate such Act. Requires an interagency task force to issue guidelines specifying permissible conduct and arrangements associated with common types of export sales arrangements and business contracts and precautionary procedures creating a rebuttable presumption of compliance. Provides for the establishment of a Business Practices and Records Act Review Procedure to answer specific inquiries concerning enforcement of such Act. Requires the Attorney General to issue opinions regarding compliance. Makes such opinions final and binding on all parties if the conduct does not involve a violation. Requires annual reports to Congress by: (1) the Attorney General concerning actions taken pursuant to such Act; and (2) the Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission concerning the reporting requirements. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should negotiate agreements establishing standards of conduct for international business practices, a resolution procedure, and rates of commissions. Directs the President to report to Congress concerning the progress of such negotiations. Requires Congress to review the Business Practices and Records Act after receiving the President's report. Directs the President to report to Congress on the legal and practical consequences of specific action that the United States could take under existing law to: (1) promote international cooperation to prevent bribery of foreign officials, candidates, or parties in third countries; and (2) encourage persons or businesses operating in foreign countries to refrain from bribing foreign officials, candidates, or parties to the disadvantage of U. S. industry. Requires the report to contain recommendations for new legislation and an analysis of the potential effect on U. S. interests of the corruption of foreign officials and political leaders. Requires an export competitiveness impact statement from any issuing authority taking significant action which could affect adversely U.S. exports or the international competitive position of the United States and its exporters. Expresses the sense of Congress that export paperwork must be reduced to encourage export sales. Requires all agencies to minimize paperwork and reporting requirements. Title VI: Export Awareness and Export Promotion Programs - Export Trading Company Act of 1981 - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to promote export trading companies by providing information and by facilitating contacts between producers of exportable goods and export trading companies. Authorizes any banking organization to invest specified amounts in export trading companies upon notifying, but without obtaining the prior approval of, the appropriate Federal banking agency, if such investment does not cause an export trading company to become a subsidiary of such organization. Allows greater investment by Edge Act Corporations not engaged in banking. Permits any banking organization to invest beyond such limitations with prior approval of the appropriate Federal banking agency. Requires prior notification of such agencies in specified circumstances. Sets forth further limitations on export trading companies and investments by banking organizations. Specifies factors to be taken into consideration by the banking agencies. Permits such agencies to impose conditions in approving applications to invest in export trading companies. Requires such agencies to report to the appropriate Congressional committees with their recommendations concerning implementation of this Act, related changes in U.S. law, and effects of ownership of U.S. banks by foreign banking organizations. Provides for judicial review of denial orders in the appropriate U.S. Court of Appeals. Sets forth the grounds for disapproval. Provides for remand for further consideration by the banking agency. Directs the Economic Development Administration and the Small Business Administration to give special weight to export-related benefits when considering applications for loans and guarantees by export trading companies. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 through 1986 for such initial investments and operating expenses. Directs the Export-Import Bank of the United States to provide loan guarantees for expansion to export trading companies or exporters to be secured by accounts receivable or inventories when adequate financing is not otherwise available. Directs the Board of Directors to try to insure that a major share of such guarantees promotes exports from small, medium-size, and minority businesses or agricultural concerns. Amends the Small Business Act to empower the Small Business Administration to extend credit to finance export assistance. Sets a maximum of $750,000 which may be committed to any borrower from the business loan and investment revolving fund. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to enter into cooperative agreements with industrial corporations to develop foreign markets for their products. Requires the Secretary to direct specific market research for the products involved in foreign markets upon entering such agreements. Permits interested industrial corporations to submit a proposal incorporating specific marketing actions to the Secretary. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into a marketing agreement after approving any such proposal. Requires repayment of the Federal share of the costs by the entity entering into such an agreement. Authorizes appropriations to carry out such agreements. Directs each Federal agency and U.S. representative to any international organization to: (1) identify programs affecting the export of U.S. firms' services; (2) make available information concerning such programs; (3) establish programs to publicize export-related programs for services; and (4) modify those programs with an adverse effect on the export of services. Makes the Secretary of Commerce responsible for coordinating such programs. Directs the Department of Treasury to report to Congress concerning the feasibility of extending DISC treatment to the export of services. Title VII: Agricultural Exports - Amends the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act to establish the Agricultural Export Credit Revolving Fund to be available for: (1) the export of, or aid in the development of foreign markets for, agricultural commodities; and (2) loans for the acquisition of facilities in foreign countries to improve the countries' capacities to handle agri-commodities exported from the United States. Authorizes appropriations for such Fund for fiscal years 1982 through 1984. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to report to Congress annually concerning the export credit sales program. Abolishes such fund effective October 1, 1984. Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to require the ratio of credit extended by the Export-Import Bank for agricultural exports in comparison with the total amount extended be at least equivalent to the value of agricultural exports in comparison with total value of exports. Specifies exceptions to this requirement. Title VIII: International Agreements - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the multilateral trade agreement be strongly implemented; and (2) the efforts must continue to secure a freer world trading environment. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to implement a special export subsidy program for agricultural commodities to neutralize the effects of foreign export subsidy programs. Specifies the circumstances required before such program may be implemented. Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should enter into negotiations for international codes of: (1) official export financing; (2) business conduct; (3) reciprocity of antitrust enforcement; and (4) fair trade in services. Requires the President to report to Congress concerning the progress of such negotiations. Title IX: Government Support of Export Goals - Overseas Private Investment Corporation Act of 1981 - Establishes the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) as an independent agency. Sets forth the duties of OPIC. Provides for the capital of OPIC to be paid in through the appropriation process and through transfer from OPIC's earned income. Sets forth the structure of OPIC with a Board of Directors, a President of the Corporation, an Executive Vice President of the Corporation, other officers and staff, and consultants. Authorizes OPIC to issue insurance to eligible investors covering new or existing investments protecting against specified risks. Authorizes OPIC to make arrangements with foreign governments or multilateral organizations for sharing liabilities. Limits the insurance that may be issued to a single investor. Authorizes OPIC to issue guarantees of loans and other investments. Sets forth limitations on such guarantees. Authorizes OPIC to make direct loans to privately owned or mixed publicly and privately owned firms for projects sponsored by or significantly involving small businesses or cooperatives. Limits the circumstances under which OPIC may acquire stock in any other corporation. Authorizes OPIC to initiate and support the identification, assessment, and promotion of private investment opportunities, with specified exceptions. Authorizes OPIC to administer special projects to provide private technical, professional, or managerial assistance in the development of human resources, skills, technology, capital savings, and intermediate financial institutions and cooperatives. Authorizes OPIC to engage in other insurance, reinsurance, and risk sharing activities with other insurance companies, financial institutions, persons, or groups. Limits the amount of reinsurance of liabilities which OPIC may issue. Limits the amount of maximum contingent liability pursuant to insurance or guarantees issued under this Act which may be outstanding at any one time. Establishes the: (1) Direct Investment Fund as a revolving fund to be available for direct investments; and (2) Insurance Reserve and Guaranty Reserve to be available for discharging liabilities. Authorizes appropriations to the investment and guaranty fund in specified circumstances. Authorizes OPIC to issue obligations in specified circumstances in order to discharge liabilities. Requires that all revenues and income transferred to or earned by OPIC be available to carry out OPIC's purposes. Directs OPIC to determine that suitable arrangements exist for protecting OPIC's interests in connection with any insurance, guaranty, or reinsurance issued under this Act. Pledges the full faith and credit of the United States for the full payment and performance of previous obligations. Sets forth conditions with respect to insurance, guaranty, and reinsurance coverage under this Act concerning fees, time limits, fraud, and settlement of disputes. Sets forth administrative provisions and duties applicable to OPIC. Requires OPIC to undertake to broaden the participation of small business, cooperatives, and other small investors in the development of small private enterprise in less developed friendly countries or areas. Directs OPIC to report annually to Congress concerning its operations. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to define "eligible investor" in terms of this Act with respect to housing guarantees. Repeals provisions: (1) prohibiting the transfer of OPIC funds between accounts; (2) authorizing the President to deny assistance to any less developed country which fails to enter into an agreement to institute the investment guaranty program; and (3) establishing OPIC. Declares that nothing in this part shall be construed as terminating any of OPIC's statutory authority. Requires the President of OPIC to submit to the appropriate Congressional committees any necessary technical or conforming amendments. Declares that the potential for U.S. exports shall be a primary decisionmaking factor in considering which projects to include in U.S. foreign aid programs. Declares that the Office of Management and Budget should assure that adequate budget allocations are made available to carry out the programs prescribed in this Act. Declares that the Department of Justice should do what it can to facilitate procedures for exporters. Declares that the Small Business Administration should: (1) be aware of the benefits of export to small business development; and (2) use every opportunity to provide information and assistance to potential exporters. Declares that the U.S. ability to export coal, nuclear power fuels, and other energy materials in a reliable manner should be a key consideration. Directs congressional committees to include in their reports the effect of the bill or resolution on the international competitiveness of the United States. Creates a National Export Council to: (1) serve as a national advisory body on matters relating to United States export trade; (2) act as a liaison among the communities represented by its membership; and (3) provide advice on Federal plans and actions that affect export promotion and development policies which have an impact on those communities represented by its membership. Requires the Council to report annually to the President and the Congress on its activities. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to appoint commercial ministers, counselors, and attaches (with the rank and privileges of other ministers, counselors, and attaches in U.S. embassies and consulates) to: (1) provide trade and commercial service; (2) engage in the promotion of U.S. exports; (3) file semiannual reports to the Secretary on market, industrial, and commodity conditions in their districts and on the implementation of multilateral and bilateral trade agreements; and (4) maintain current data on the commercial standing and capacity of foreign firms within their districts. Provides for domestic assignment, office logistics, allowances, and benefits of such ministers, counselors, and attaches. Directs the Comptroller General to report to Congress with any recommendations concerning: (1) the organization of international trading and financing programs in the United States; (2) the effectiveness of foreign export promotion programs; and (3) the trade activities of specified Federal agencies. Expresses the sense of Congress that the appropriate congressional committees should review periodically the trade organization of the U.S. Government.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1981
Extends from December 31, 1981, to September 30, 1982, the authority of the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to contract for hospital care or medical services in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands without reference to patient loads or incidence of provision of medical services for veterans treated by the Veterans' Administration in the contiguous 48 states.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1981
Legal Services Corporation Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Legal Services Corporation Act to direct the Legal Services Corporation to make available substantial funds to provide the opportunity for legal assistance to be furnished by private attorneys. Authorizes appropriations for the Corporation in the amount of $321,300,000 for fiscal year 1982 and necessary sums for fiscal years 1983 and 1984.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1981
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to permit the National Committee of American Airmen Rescued by General Mihailovich to construct and maintain a monument to General Draza Mihailovich in recognition of the role he played in saving the lives of approximately five hundred United States airmen in Yugoslavia during World War II. Provides that such monument shall be located on Federal public land within the District of Columbia or environs. Directs that private funds shall be the sole source for the construction and maintenance of such monument.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1981
Small Business Innovation Research Act of 1981 - Amends the Small Business Act to direct the Small Business Administration (SBA) to: (1) maintain an information program to provide small businesses an opportunity to participate in Federal small business innovation research (SBIR) programs; (2) coordinate a schedule for release of agency SBIR solicitations and prepare a master release schedule; (3) monitor SBIR programs within Federal agencies; and (4) report annually to the Congressional Small Business Committees on the SBIR programs. Requires each Federal agency with a research and development budget in excess of $100,000,000 in fiscal year 1982 or any subsequent fiscal year to spend a specified percentage of its budget in connection with an SBIR program. Requires each Federal agency with a research and development budget in excess of $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1982 or any subsequent fiscal year to establish specific goals for funding research and development agreements with small businesses. Directs each Federal agency with an SBIR program to report annually to the SBA the number of awards over $10,000 in amount made under the SBIR program and to concerns other than small business concerns. Directs the Administrator of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy, in conjunction with the SBA, to promulgate regulations for the conduct of the SBIR programs. States that this Act does not authorize the appropriation of funds.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1981
Voting Rights Act Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to extend from August 6, 1982, to August 6, 1992: (1) the time period during which jurisdictions covered by the triggering mechanism must not have used a test or device to deny the right to vote on account of race in order to be released from coverage; and (2) the time period during which changes in voting laws must be precleared with the Federal Government. Extends the bilingual election requirements from August 6, 1985, to August 6, 1992. Restates the prohibition against denying the right to vote based on race to prohibit any State from imposing voting practices "in a manner which results in a denial or abridgement" of the right to vote.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1981
Title I: Tax Treatment of Loans Secured by Shares of Stock in Cooperative Housing Corporations - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to qualify loans secured by stock in a cooperative housing corporation for the tax treatment accorded losses on certain real property loans. Revises the definition of "domestic building and loan association" to include associations at least 60 percent of the total assets of which consists of such loans. Title II: Tax Treatment of Investment by Real Estate Investment Trusts in Loans Secured by Stock in Cooperative Housing Corporations - Includes stock in a cooperative housing corporation in the amount of real estate assets and in the amount of interests in real property used for determining the status of a real estate investment trust.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1981
Youth Skills Act of 1981 - Declares the intention of the Congress to establish the authority of Opportunities Industrialization Centers and other community-based organizations of demonstrated effectiveness to develop and furnish skills training and job placement as subgrantees in unrestricted grant programs. Directs the head of each agency administering specified programs to take necessary actions to ensure that: (1) appropriate youth employment and training services will be furnished under each such program; and (2) Opportunities Industrialization Centers and other community-based organizations will be given special consideration in the delivery of such services. Specifies the programs to which such requirement applies as: (1) the State and Local Fiscal Assistance Act of 1972 and any successor program providing for general revenue sharing to States and/or local government; (2) title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, or any similar legislation providing unrestricted grants for community development; (3) any program providing for unrestricted Federal assistance for public works or for the creation of private sector jobs; (4) any program to rehabilitate and improve U.S. railroads; and (5) any program of tax incentives or other Federal subsidies to encourage economic development of urban areas with high concentrations of unemployed individuals, especially areas designated as urban enterprise zones. Directs such agency heads to assure that eligible employers under such unrestricted financial assistance programs will enter into contracts for the delivery of employment and training services to youth. Directs the Secretary of Labor to advise appropriate public agencies and private contractors receiving assistance under such programs of the provisions of this Act and the availability of subcontracting the delivery of employment and training services for youth to Opportunities Industrialization Centers and other community-based organizations. Directs such agency heads to assure that recipients of financial assistance under such programs provide employment and training services, with special consideration for jobs with prospects of continued employment, for youth: (1) hard to employ and historically unemployed and unskilled; (2) living in urban and rural areas with high concentrations of welfare families; (3) living in designated enterprise zones; and (4) living in rural areas where job opportunity development will prevent out-migration to urban areas. Sets forth nondiscrimination provisions. Defines "community-based organization" as a nonprofit tax exempt organization of demonstrated effectiveness in delivering employment services. Cites examples of such organizations. Defines "youth" as an individual who has attained 18 years of age but not 26 years of age. Declares that nothing in this Act shall be construed as a limitation on any other Federal law provision for employment and training services.
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