United States · United States Congress · 17 June 1976
National Meals-on-Wheels Act - Amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to allow States to distribute Federal funds for the establishment of: (1) projects to provide home-delivered meals to qualified homebound elderly persons; (2) an information and referral system for homebound individuals receiving such meals; and (3) an operation to seek volunteer personnel for the delivery of such meals and to compensate such personnel for related transportation expenses. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums in fiscal years 1977 and 1978 for the purpose of providing home-delivered meals under this Act. Directs the Commissioner of the Administration on Aging to conduct a demonstration project involving at least three States to determine the feasibility of using the meals system designed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for the elderly as a component of, or substitute for, regular nutrition projects assisted under the Older Americans Act of 1965. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary in fiscal year 1977 to carry out this project.
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1976
Alaska Natural Gas Transportation Act - Expresses the intent of Congress that the selection of a natural gas transportation system for delivery of Alaskan natural gas to other States be made through the establishment of new administrative and judicial procedures. Directs the Federal Power Commission to establish special procedures for expedited review of applications and reasonable alternatives relating to the transportation of Alaskan natural gas. Directs the Commission to complete its review and transmit its findings to the President by March 1, 1977. Requires that reports from other agencies which the President shall deem appropriate be submitted by April 1, 1977. Establishes criteria for information to be considered in such reports. Directs the President to make a final decision as to proposed systems for the transportation of Alaskan natural gas not later than July 1, 1977. Establishes procedures for Congressional review of such Presidential decision. Directs the Secretary of the Interior and other appropriate Federal officials to issue all necessary permits and take other necessary action to enforce all rights-of-way, permits, and leases related to the construction and operation of such natural gas transportation system. Requires compliance with requirements of the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920 relating to rights- of-way for pipelines through Federal lands. Exempts authorizations issued pursuant to this Act from requirements concerning: (1) compliance with National Environmental Policy Act provisions; (2) technical and financial capacity of applicants; (3) public hearings; and (4) furnishing of specified information and reports. Stipulates that an environmental impact statement on the proposed project shall be prepared at the earliest practicable time after the issuance of all necessary permits. Declares that the legal or factual sufficiency of such environmental statement shall not be subject to judicial review. Authorizes the Secretary and the Commission to develop procedural requirements of Federal law where desirable to accomplish the purposes of this Act. Declares that the actions of Federal officers and agencies under this Act shall not be subject to judicial review by the courts. Allows for claims that: (1) this Act is unconstitutional; (2) actions under this Act will deny Constitutional rights; and (3) actions taken are beyond the scope of authority conferred by this Act, provided that such claims are filed within 60 days following the date of the challenged action. Declares that exclusive jurisdiction shall be vested in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia, with review of any final order limited to direct appeal to the United States Supreme Court. Declares that the court shall not have the power to issue injunctive relief against the issuance of any certificate, except in cases where a final judgment is entered.
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1976
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to designate all or any portion of specified lands in South Carolina for establishment as the Congaree Swamp National Preserve. Authorizes the acquisition of any lands so designated or interests therein. Empowers the Secretary to enter into cooperative agreements with an appropriate agency of the State of South Carolina pursuant to which such agency may develop, operate, and maintain the preserve. Authorizes the Secretary to defray in whole or in part the costs of such development, operation, and maintenance. Permits hunting and fishing within the preserve in accordance with Federal and local law, except in such zones and during such periods as the Secretary may designate. Directs the Secretary to review specified lands within the preserve for suitability for preservation as wilderness.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1976
Energy Conservation Act - Directs the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration to prescribe guidelines for the development and preparation of State energy conservation implementation programs. Requires that States be given an opportunity to participate in the drafting of such guidelines. Establishes eligibility criteria for State energy conservation implementation programs in order to receive Federal assistance under this Act. Imposes a preliminary requirement that the State establish a State energy conservation advisory committee to assist in the formulation of such program. Authorizes the Administrator to provide Federal financial assistance to States whose proposed energy conservation programs meet such criteria. Lists factors to be considered in determining the amount of such assistance. Stipulates that no State shall receive more than ten percent of the national total in each category of financial assistance. Authorizes the appropriation of the following sums to assist eligible State programs: $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, and $50,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980. Amends the Energy Conservation and Insulation of Buildings Act of 1976 to authorize additional appropriations of $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $50,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978 and 1979; and $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1980 to assist low-income persons under the provisions of such Act. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to assist in the financing of energy conservation measures. Authorizes the appropriation of the following amounts for such assistance payments: $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, and $200,000, 000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980. Amends the Small Business Act to empower the Small Business Administration to make loans to small business concerns for implementation of energy conservation measures. Limits the total amount of such loans under the Act of $300,000,000. Stipulates that the total amount of such payments to lending institutions under the Act shall not exceed $60,000,000. Authorizes the Administrator to guarantee loans and other obligations issued to finance energy conservation measures consistent with the purposes of this Act. Limits the aggregate amount of outstanding guarantees under this Act to $10,000,000,000. Requires annual reports to the Congress on actions taken to implement the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1976
Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to directly regulate sales prices of new natural gas except for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices for onshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed: (1) the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands; (2) $1.60 per Mcf as adjusted by the Commission; or (3) a ceiling rate established by any State for interstate sale and consumption. Stipulates that prices paid for natural gas in transactions between a natural gas company and its affiliates shall not exceed prices paid in comparable sales by persons not affiliated with any natural gas company. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make an annual independent estimate of proved and potential natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the natural gas industry. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within certain high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Stipulates that the provisions of the Natural Gas Act shall extend to synthetic natural gas. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards. Directs the Commission to impose a user charge on sales of natural gas for use as boiler fuel. Establishes procedures for the establishment and periodic revision of national ceiling prices for the sale of old natural gas in interstate commerce.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1976
Provides, under the Federal Trade Commission Act, that exclusive territorial arrangements in any franchise agreement, or any trademark licensing contract or agreement, for the manufacture, distribution, and sale of a trademarked soft drink product shall not be deemed unlawful, provided: (1) that such product is in substantial and effective competition with products of the same general class distributed or sold by others; (2) the licensee is in substantial and effective competition with vendors of other products of the same general class; and (3) the licensor retains control over the nature and quality of such product in accordance with the provisions of the Trademark Act of 1946.
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Central Arizona Indian Tribal Water Rights Settlement Act - Defines the term "Central Arizona Indian Tribes" as meaning the Ak Chin Indian Community, the Fort McDowell Mohave-Apache Community, the Gila River Indian Community, the Papago Tribe of Arizona, and the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. Title I: Water Resource Projects - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to undertake: (1) a ten year program to acquire a firm surface water supply on behalf of the Ak Chin Indian Community; (2) a five year program to acquire a firm surface water supply on behalf of the Fort McDowell Mohave-Apache Indian Community; (3) a ten year program to acquire a firm surface water supply on behalf of the Gila River Indian Community; (4) a ten year program to acquire a firm surface water supply on behalf of the Papago Tribe; and (5) a ten year program to acquire a firm surface water supply on behalf of the Salt River Pima- Maricopa Indian Community. Sets forth the amounts of water which shall be made available to each tribe for various purposes and projects. Grants the Secretary authority to undertake projects designed to maximize the amounts of water available from underground sources and available water distribution systems. Authorizes appropriations for the construction of water resource project facilities and irrigation distribution systems of $32,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $28,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $28,000,000 during fiscal year 1979, and $8,000,000 during each of the next seven fiscal years. Authorizes appropriations for loans to the Central Arizona Tribes of $12,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $12,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $12,000,000 for fiscal year 1979, and $6,000,000 for each of the next seven fiscal years. Title II: Acquisition of Water - Authorizes the Secretary to acquire, by purchase, exchange, or eminent domain proceedings, such private lands and such State water rights as he deems appropriate for the purpose of providing water to the Central Arizona Tribes. Prohibits the acquisition of water rights belonging to any Indian tribe, band, group or community, or any individual Indian allottees. Permits the Secretary, in his discretion, to transfer to lands within the reservations of the Central Arizona Tribes any Federal water rights appurtenant to the public lands or to any lands within a Federal reservation under his jurisdiction which are surplus to the needs of such lands. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into contracts and to use facilities constructed in whole or in part with Federal funds to facilitate the delivery of water to reservations of the Central Arizona Tribes. States that the Secretary may spend up to $2,000,000 of the funds appropriated pursuant to this Act for the purpose of making grants to the Central Arizona Tribes to develop plans for efficient use of newly irrigated lands and to carry out training programs for Indian farmers. Authorizes appropriations for acquisition costs of $38,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $36,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $36,000,000 for fiscal year 1979, and $20,000,000 for each of the next seven fiscal years. Authorizes appropriation of sums necessary for delivery of water to the Central Arizona Tribes, for payments under contracts entered into by the Secretary, and for grants to the tribes. Title III: Settlement - Stipulates that the acquisition and delivery of water pursuant to this Act shall satisfy each tribe's present and future right to the use of surface water for farming purposes.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1976
Amends the Tariff Schedules of the United States to reduce the customs duty for fish netting or fish nets of fabric other than cotton or vegetable fibers.
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1976
Peanut Act - Provides, under the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938, for a national acreage allotment of not less than 1,247,000 acres for the 1977 crop of peanuts. States that the farm yield for such crop shall be determined on a basis equal to 96 percent of the average actual yield per acre on the farm for the three highest yield years out of the five years preceding the year such yield determination is made. Provides that if peanuts were not produced on such farm in at least three years of such five-year period, the Secretary of Agriculture shall have a yield appraised at 90 percent of the yields established for similar farms. Establishes a farm marketing quota for such peanut crop equal to the quantity determined by multiplying the farm peanut acreage allotment by the farm yield. Sets forth economic penalties for the marketing of non-quota peanuts or the marketing of peanuts in a larger quantity or higher grade or quality than could reasonably be produced from the quantity of peanuts or the grade acquired by handlers for marketing. States that only quota peanuts may be retained for use as seed on a farm and when so retained shall be considered as marketings of quota peanuts. Requires that all acreage planted to peanuts be measured and that the disposal of nonquota peanuts be supervised by area marketing associations designated pursuant to the Agricultural Act of 1949. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture under such Act to make price supports available to producers of the 1977 crop of peanuts through loans, purchases, or other operations on quota peanuts at a net level of not less than 70 percent of the parity price as of April 1, 1977, and on nonquota peanuts at not more than 60 percent of the loan and purchase level for quota peanuts or 90 percent of the estimated value of peanuts for crushing, export or both, whichever is lower. Directs the Commodity Credit Corporation to make warehouse storage loans available to marketing associations of specified producing areas which are selected and approved by the Corporation and which are operated primarily for the purpose of conducting such loan activities. Requires such associations to establish pools and maintain records by type for quota peanuts handled under loans and for nonquota peanuts produced within a contract between handler and producer. States that net gains on peanuts in such pool shall be distributed in proportion to the value of the peanuts placed in the pool by each grower. Provides that peanuts received under loan by such associations shall be offered for sale for domestic food and related uses. Sets forth the prices to be charged for such peanuts. Authorizes the sale for crushing or export of any peanuts received under loan which are not needed for domestic purposes. States that for the 1977 and subsequent crop of peanuts the Secretary shall permit the owner and operator of any farm for which a peanut acreage allotment is established to sell, lease, or transfer all or part of such allotment.
United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1976
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President shall seek the elimination of surety deposit requirements on vegetable protein products imposed by the European Economic Community. Provides that if the President shall fail to eliminate such requirement, he shall obtain full compensation for such actions under article XXIII of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1976
Solar Energy Act - Title I: Findings, Policy, Purpose and Definitions - Declares it the policy of the United States to reduce national reliance on crude oil imports as an energy source by demonstrating the reliability of solar energy generation facilities. Title II: Solar Energy Fiscal Year 1977 Suggested Budget Outlays for Operating Expenses, Plant and Equipment, and Construction - Recommends budget outlays for fiscal year 1977 in the following areas: solar heating and cooling, agricultural and industrial process heat, solar-thermal electric, photovoltaic, ocean-thermal, wind, solar crop irrigation, resource assessment and technology utilization, and other areas of solar energy research. Includes recommended budget outlays for specific projects. Title III: Responsibilities of the Administration - Amends the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974 to direct the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to: (1) insure, to the maximum extent possible, that procurement under such Act be on a cost-sharing basis with private business; (2) consult with the Administrator of the Small Business Administration before granting or contracting of any demonstration projects under the Act; and (3) report to the President and the Congress by September 30, 1977 on the integration of existing electric utility systems with decentralized solar-electric generation systems.
United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1976
Medicare-Medicaid Administrative and Reimbursement Reform Act - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare under the Social Security Act to establish within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare a unit known as the Health Care Financing Administration. States that such Administration shall include the functions and personnel of the existing Bureau of Health Insurance, Medical Services Administration, Bureau of Quality Insurance, and Office of Nursing Home Affairs. Establishes within the Department the office of Assistant Secretary for Health Care Financing. Places the Assistant Secretary in charge of the Health Care Financing Administration. Includes in the area of responsibility of such Assistant Secretary the programs established by Title XVIII (Medicare) and Title XIX (Medicaid), the Professional Standards Review program, and the renal disease program of the Social Security Act. Establishes an Office of Central Fraud and Abuse Control within the Department. Directs the creation of a new position to be known as Inspector General for Health Administration. Places such Inspector General in charge of the Office of Central Fraud and Abuse Control. States that such Inspector General shall have responsibility for dealing with fraud and abuse in the programs established by Title V (Maternal and Child Health Crippled Children's Services), Title XVIII, Title XIX, the Professional Standards Review section of Title XI, and the renal disease treatment provisions of Title II (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. Declares it to be the duty of the Inspector General to take such actions as are necessary to ascertain the efficiency and economy of the administration of the programs under his cognizance, their consonance with the provisions of law by or pursuant to which such programs were established, and the attainment of the objectives and purposes for which such provisions of law were enacted. Authorizes the appropriation of such funds as may be necessary to carry out the functions of the Inspector General. Establishes mandatory time limits for States to observe in making determinations of eligibility for services under the Medicaid program and in making payments on claims. Specifies those reports which States must submit to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare in connection with the operation of the State Medicaid program. Includes reports on the State's performance in meeting the time limits established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Secretary to conduct an annual survey of each State's performance in meeting established time frames and remaining within allowable rates of error in making eligibility determinations. Establishes sanctions for States which fail to correct deficiencies uncovered by such surveys. Directs the Secretary to provide technical assistance to any State which requests such assistance in meeting the time limits and error rates established by this Act. Directs the Secretary to prepare a biannual report on the characteristics of the State programs of medical assistance financed under the Medicaid program, including as a minimum: (1) a description of the amount, duration, and scope of benefits available in each State; (2) a description of eligibility criteria for all groups eligible for medical assistance in each State; (3) a specification of the reimbursement rates paid under the State program for the major types of services in each State; and (4) a listing of all fiscal agents contracted with for administration of the program. Directs the submission of such report to the Senate Committee on Finance and the House Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce. Directs the Secretary to establish procedures consistent with Federal procurement requirements to ensure the economical processing of Medicare claims by organizations engaged in the provision of group health services. Terminates the Health Insurance Benefits Advisory Council. Establishes a new method of reimbursement for routine operating costs for hospitals under the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Requires, as part of the implementation of such new method, the establishment of a uniform accounting and cost allocation system for determining operating and capital costs of hospitals providing services. Requires the establishment of a system by which hospitals will be classified by such criteria as: (1) size; (2) type of hospital (general, teaching, or specialized Care); and (3) such other criteria as the Secretary shall identify. Stipulates that the term "routine operating costs" does not include: (1) capital costs (including interest expense on loans to purchase capital assets, and depreciation); (2) direct personnel and supply costs of hospital education and training programs; (3) costs of interns, residents, and medical (but not nursing) personnel; and (4) energy costs associated with heating or cooling the hospital plant. Directs the Secretary to determine annually for the hospitals classified in each category of the hospital classification system established by this Act, an average per diem routine operating cost amount for use in determining, for purposes of making payment under this title to such hospitals for services furnished by them, the reasonable cost of that portion of the hospital's costs which consist of routine operating costs. Provides for the periodic increase during the year of the routine operating cost as determined pursuant to this Act to reflect increases in the cost of services which are attributable to inflation. Provides for the adjustment of the routine operating cost of a hospital to reflect higher costs to such hospital of a case mix which requires a greater intensity of care than that for other hospitals in the same classification. Directs the Secretary to establish a five-member Hospital Transitional Allowance Board. States that the function of such Board shall be to act on the applications of hospitals for reimbursement of expenses incurred in the retirement or conversion of underutilized facilities. Requires that such conversion promote efficient and economical delivery of services covered by the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Sets forth criteria for determining the reasonable charge which may be made for physicians' services, and medical services, supplies and equipment under the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Establishes a plan for the reimbursement of physicians under which participating doctors of medicine or osteopathy would accept the assignment of patients' claims for reimbursement under the Medicare program. Requires the Secretary to establish procedures for expediting the payment of such assigned claims to physicians. Promulgates an incentive payment to encourage physicians to participate in the program of assignment of claims. Sets forth the conditions under which anesthesiologists, pathologists, and radiologists may be paid under the Medicare and Medicaid programs for patient care services which they personally perform or direct. Authorizes payment, under the Supplementary Medical Insurance Benefits program of Medicare, for antigens prepared by an allergist for a particular patient. Prohibits, under both the Medicare and Medicaid programs, the making of any payment which may be made directly to a physician to a person claiming such payment under an assignment. Permits the Secretary to make agreements with the States under which the services of a State health agency will be utilized for the purpose of determining whether an institution in such State qualifies as a skilled nursing facility for purposes of the Medicaid program. Sets forth procedures for determining the reasonable cost and reasonable charge for services under the Medicare and Medicaid programs and under the program of Maternal and Child Health and Crippled Children's Services. Specifies those items of cost which may not be included in a claim for reimbursement for services. Promulgates standards under which payment will be made to health maintenance organizations under the Medicaid program. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to public or nonprofit private regional pediatric respiratory centers affiliated with institutions of higher learning for training and instruction in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of respiratory diseases in children and young adults and in providing health care services to children and young adults suffering from such diseases. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for the making of such grants for fiscal year 1977 and the succeeding four fiscal years. Increases the criminal penalties for the crimes of receiving or offering kickbacks or bribes in connection with the furnishing of services under the Medicare or Medicaid programs.
United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1976
Expresses the sense of the Senate that Radio Free Europe should be granted the same privileges granted to other news organizations concerning the Olympic games.
United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1976
Ocean and Coastal Resources Act - Title I: Marine Sciences and Technology Policy - Establishes, within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration the Office of Marine Resources, Science, and Technology to develop and implement a program for marine resources and to develop and promote cooperative research and development projects. Requires the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration with the assistance of the Office to prepare a six year national plan for research and development in marine science and technology and for the demonstration and practical implementation of marine science and technology developments. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to submit such plan to the Congress and the President. Provides that the Office shall operate and maintain a service to be known as the National Ocean and Coastal Advisory Service. States that the service shall impart useful information, knowledge, and technique to organizations and individuals employed or otherwise interested in the assessment, development, and/or conservation of ocean and coastal resources. Provides that the service shall be headed by a Director. Sets forth the responsibility of the Director which includes coordination of all advisory service programs relating to ocean and coastal resources, and formulation of a comprehensive plan for the production and delivery of advisory services regarding ocean and coastal resources. Authorizes the appropriation of $3,750,000 for the fiscal transition period ending September 30, 1976; and $15,000,000 for fiscal years 1977, 1978 and 1979. Requires the Secretary to submit an annual report to the Congress and the President. Specifies that such report shall provide an evaluation of the status and prospects for marine science and technology. Gives the National Advisory Committee on Oceans and Atmosphere the opportunity to review each such report. Establishes a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration distinguished research award for outstanding achievements and contributions in problem-oriented research related to ocean and coastal resources which meets international, national, and/or regional needs. Title II: National Sea Grant Program Amendments - National Sea Grant Act - Provides that there shall be maintained within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration a program of research, education, training, and advisory services to be known as the national sea grant program. Directs that the program shall be administered by the Office of Marine Resources, Science, and Technology. States that the program shall be designed and administered to further research, education, training, and advisory services in ocean and coastal resource development, assessment, and conservation, including relevant research, education, and training in marine science. Requires the program to include the making of grants and contracts in accordance with specifically identified national needs and problems. Authorizes the appropriation of $3,750,000 for the fiscal transition period ending September 30, 1976; $15,000,000 for fiscal years 1977, 1978, and 1979, for the purpose of making such grants and contracts. Provides for the appointment of a Director of the national sea grant program who shall establish long-range planning guidelines for the administration of the program, advise the Associate Administrator of existing expertise and capabilities within the program, and provide support for sea grant fellowships through institutions of higher education for educational and training assistance to persons in fields related to marine and coastal resource understanding. Authorizes the Secretary to designate, through the national sea grant program, sea grant colleges, and sea grant regional consortia. Provides that such institutions shall initiate, conduct, and support programs of research, education, training, and advisory services in disciplines and fields that are relevant to the development, utilization, and conservation of ocean and coastal resources. Establishes a sea grant review panel which shall supercede the sea grant advisory panel. Provides that the panel shall function as an advisory body to the Director of the national sea grant program. Authorizes the appropriation of $8,750,000 for the fiscal transition period ending September 30, 1976; and $35,000,000 for fiscal years 1977, 1978 and 1979 to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1976
Multinational Business Enterprise Information Act - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish a program to gather information on the investments, sales, employment, research funds, and branch and affiliate location of multinational business enterprises whose aggregate assets exceed $50,000,000. Requires that such information cover the two years preceding the date of submission. Defines "multinational business enterprise" and "United States business enterprise" under this Act. Directs the Secretary: (1) to publish such information, and statistical data derived from such information; and (2) to make such information available to the Adjustment Assistance Coordinating Committee, the International Trade Commission, and any committee of the House of Representatives or the Senate. Authorizes the Secretary to prescribe rules and regulations to carry out the purposes of this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to carry out this Act. Imposes a fine of $10,000 for failure to furnish information required under this Act. Permits the Secretary to bring a civil action under this Act seeking a mandatory injunction to command compliance with this Act. Imposes a fine of $10,000 or not more than one year imprisonment or both for willful violation of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1976
Amends the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to include in the Renewable Resource Program, national program recommendations which take into account specified policy objectives. Requires the Secretary to provide for public participation in the formulation and review of proposed land management plans for units of the National Forest System. Directs the Secretary to promulgate regulations that set out processes for the development and revision of land management plans. Requires that such regulations specify procedures to insure that plans are prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act and guidelines. Authorizes the Secretary to appraise and sell so much of the trees and other forest products found upon National Park System lands as may further the policies set forth in the Multiple Use and Sustained Yield Act and the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources and Planning Act. Repeals the requirement that such forest products be sold for use only in the State or territory in which the timber reservation from which such products were taken is located. Increases to $10,000 in appraised value the maximum value of timber and cord wood which the Secretary may sell without advertisement.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1976
Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to furnish assistance for relief and rehabilitation of refugees and other needy people of Lebanon. Requires that such assistance be distributed, to the maximum extent practicable, under the auspices of the United Nations.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1976
Requires the appointment of an optometrist to the National Professional Standards Review Council and the participation by optometrists in the activities of local professional standards review organizations pursuant to the requirement of title XI of the Social Security Act.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1976
Energy Conservation Act - Directs the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration to prescribe guidelines for the development and preparation of proposed State energy conservation programs. Stipulates that such guidelines be designed to allow States maximum flexibility and discretion in preparing such programs. Requires that States be given an opportunity to participate in the drafting of such guidelines. Authorizes the Administrator to provide Federal financial assistance to States whose proposed energy conservation programs meet specified Federal criteria. Stipulates that such assistance may be in the form of loan guarantees, interest subsidies, or grants. Lists factors to be considered in determining the amount of such assistance. Stipulates that no State shall receive more than 12.5 percent of the national total in each category of financial assistance. Establishes the following limits on financial assistance under this Act: (1) loan guarantees- shall not exceed an aggregate of $10,000,000,000 at any one time; (2) interest subsidies to residential and small business consumers-authorizes an appropriation of not more than $90,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $180,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and $360,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 1979 and 1980; and (3) grants to States-$50,000,000 annually for fiscal years 1977 through 1980. Specifies the following criteria for State programs as a pre-condition of receiving Federal financial assistance under this Act: (1) limits the maximum term of loan guarantees or subsidies to 15 years or the anticipated useful life of any permanent facilities, whichever is shorter; (2) requires procedures for energy audits and distribution of resultant information to consumers; (3) requires incentives for the implementation of energy conservation measures by individual owners and tenants; (4) demonstration that such program is designed to achieve maximum energy savings in the shortest possible time; and (5) reasonable assurance that the financial interest of the United States will be protected. Authorizes States to encourage the development of energy conservation cooperatives of residential energy consumers as part of their energy conservation programs.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1976
Expresses the solidarity of the American people in efforts to enlarge human freedom by the participants in the second Brussels conference, February 17 to 19, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 3 February 1976
Government Economy and Spending Reform Act - Title I: Authorizations of New Budget Authority - Terminates on specified dates budget authority for all Government programs except health care services, general retirement and disability insurance, and Federal employee retirement and disability programs which are funded by trust funds. Declares out of order in either the Senate or the House of Representatives any legislation which authorizes new budget authority not in compliance with this Act. Requires the Committees on Appropriations and the Committees on the Budget of both Houses of Congress to identify each program's functional and subfunctional category (as so characterized in the Budget of the United States, Fiscal Year 1977, transmitted to Congress by the President on January 21, 1976), the committees having legislative jurisdiction over such program, and whether such program operates under permanent authorizations and budget authority. Makes the budget termination provisions of this Act effective on the first day of the Ninety-fifth Congress. Title II: Early Elimination of Inactive and Duplicate Programs - Requires the Comptroller General of the United States to identify for Congress any programs which have duplicate objectives or for which no outlays have been made for the last two fiscal years. Directs the standing committees of both Houses to consider such programs and report recommendations on such programs before March 15, 1978, if possible. Title III: Quadrennial Program Review and Evaluation - Sets forth a timetable for reviewing the budget of a Government program. Requires review by standing committees of the Congress every four years of each program's cost, effectiveness, and the extent to which such program duplicates or is similar to any other program. States that such review shall include a comprehensive evaluation of the merits of such program to determine if it warrants continuation. Requires justification of any recommendation to fund any program which has objectives similar to or the same as another program's objectives. Directs the Comptroller General and the Congressional Budget Office to provide Congress with information and analysis of programs being reviewed under this Act. Requires the President to similarly review the merits of continuing programs contained in annual Budget and to report the finding of such review prior to transmitting the Budget to Congress. Title IV: Continuing Review and Evaluation - Directs the Comptroller General to report to Congress the result of any audit which shows a substantial deficiency in achievement of the objectives of any Government program. Requires subsequent audits, a report of which must be submitted to Congress, to determine if such deficiency has been eliminated. Title V: Miscellaneous - States that those provisions of this Act which direct the operation of either House are enacted as an exercise of the rulemaking power of such House and recognizes the right of either House to change such rules.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 1975
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President should call upon all nations to withhold support from all of the combatants in Angola. Provides that the President should urge the Organization of African Unity to mediate the dispute. Urges the President to curtail exports and impose economic sanctions against countries which persist in intervening in the conflict in Angola.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
Provides for the designation, at the Department of the Treasury and in the Congress, (as part of the Joint Committee on Internal Revenue Taxation), of experts on long-range tax simplification and tax reform for small business.
United States · United States Congress · 18 November 1975
States that the Senate commends Secretary of Defense James R. Schlesinger for his excellence in office, his intellectual honesty, personal integrity, courage and independence. Expresses a debt of gratitude to Secretary Schlesinger for his services and particularly for his determination to convey the truth to the American people.
United States · United States Congress · 11 November 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to establish the Old Ninety Six and Star Fort National Historical Park in the State of South Carolina. Authorizes appropriations of sums necessary to carry out this purpose.
United States · United States Congress · 11 November 1975
Condemns the resolution adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations which equates Zionism with racism. Opposes participation by the United States Government in the Decade for Action to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination. Calls for reconsideration of the Zionism resolution. Directs the Committee on International Relations and the Committee on Foreign Relations to begin hearings immediately to reassess the United States' further participation in the United Nations General Assembly.
United States · United States Congress · 10 November 1975
Veterans and Survivors Pension Reform Act - Title I: Reform of the Non-Service-Connected Pension Program for Veterans and Their Survivors - Creates a pension system within the Veterans' Administration applicable to all veterans, widows of veterans, and dependent parents who, subsequent to October 1, 1976, are or become eligible for a Veterans' Administration non-service-connected pension. Provides for a restructuring of the need-based pension program of the Veterans' Administration. Provides for a level of income for veterans and their survivors which is above the minimum subsistence level. Establishes a basic minimum level of income for all eligible veterans and dependents at $2,700 for single pensioners and $3,900 for pensioners with dependents. Provides for a method of computing a pension for those veterans with little or no income. Title II: Adjustments in Current Statutory Pension Provisions - Defines terms used in this Act. Revises the catagories of spouse, widow, and surviving spouse for purposes of the changes in rates in this Act. Presents a schedule by month for such rates. Title III: Reform of Dependency and Indemnity Compensation for Parents - Revises the schedule for determining dependency and indemnity compensation rates under the Veterans' Administration. Title IV: Adjustments in Current Statutory Provisions Relating to Dependency and Indemnity Compensation for Parents - Sets forth schedules for the payment of monthly dependency and indemnification compensation to the parents of veterans. Title V: Miscellaneous and Effective Dates - Makes the effective date of this Act October 1, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 1975
National Energy Mobilization Act - Title I: National Energy Mobilization Board - Establishes in the executive branch an independent agency to be known as the National Energy Mobilization Board. Authorizes the Board to enter into contracts to acquire and dispose of property and to take such other measures as necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act. Title II: Authorized Energy Programs - Directs the Board to estimate energy needs of the United States and to establish domestic energy production and conservation targets. Provides that the Board shall identify actions necessary to achieve the established targets and monitor the activities of governmental and private entities toward such goals. Authorizes the Board to require the allocation of or the performance under contracts relating to essential supplies of materials and equipment necessary to maximize domestic energy supplies. Directs the Board to prepare and carry out a Federal energy resource assessment program providing an assessment of the nation's energy resources. Requires the Board to study the feasibility and material needs of one or more oil and natural gas pipeline routes from the Naval Petroleum Reserve Number Four in Alaska. Directs the Board to submit periodic reports to Congress on the progress of such report. Authorizes the Board to prepare a Federal Facilities Energy Program. Provides for the utilization of idle or surplus resources of the Federal Government which could be used to augment the private sector's capacity for the production of materials and goods essential for accelerated domestic energy resource programs of exploration, conservation, and stockpiling. Title III: Programs Requiring Express Legislative Authorization - Directs the Board to prepare a Federal Coal Production Program consisting of a legislative recommendation for the accelerated exploration and production of coal in the United States. Requires the Board to prepare a Federal Energy Transportation System Improvement Program consisting of legislative recommendations for programs to assure the development of energy transportation systems. Authorizes the Board to prepare an Energy Capital Investment Program, designed to make adequate capital available for private investment in the production, development and transportation of conventional energy supplies. Provides that no program under this title shall be carried out until a report describing the program has been transmitted to the Congress. Title IV: Advisory Committees and Interagency Coordination - Authorizes the Board to establish advisory committees to consult with the Board during the development of any program established pursuant to this Act. Directs all agencies of the Federal Government to develop techniques to conserve energy resources. Title V: General Provisions - Requires the Board to develop an affirmative action plan to assure that no person shall be excluded from participating in any program initiated by the Board on the grounds of race, creed, color, national origin, or sex. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as necessary to carry out the objectives of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 October 1975
Provides for the allocation of a minimum of 200 appointments to Reserve Officers' Training Corps scholarships to students enrolled in each of the following institutions: the Citadel, Charleston, South Carolina, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia, and North Georgia College, Dahlonega, Georgia. Provides for such an allocation to any other accredited educational institutions meeting requirements specified in this Act. (Amends 10 U.S.C. 2107)
United States · United States Congress · 9 October 1975
Express the sense of the Congress that the observance of Thanksgiving include the practice of "Thankful Giving". Invites Americans to share with the hungry of the world.
United States · United States Congress · 3 October 1975
Catastrophic Health Insurance and Medical Assistance Reform Act - Title I: Catastrophic Illness Insurance - Establishes a Catastrophic Health Insurance Program under the Social Security Act. Sets forth the eligibility criteria for individuals. Provides that every individual who: (1) is a resident of the United States; and (2) is a citizen of, or a lawfully admitted alien in the United States shall be entitled to catastrophic health insurance benefits provided by this Act in cases where he is not covered by an approved employer plan. Delimits the scope of benefits, including hospital and related insurance benefits (hospital, post-hospital, and home health services) and medical and other health benefits. Sets forth the terms and conditions governing payment of benefits and deductibles. Stipulates that in determining the amount of expenses incurred by an individual for medical and other health services in any calendar year, all amounts in excess of $500 incurred in connection with the treatment of mental, psychoneurotic or personality disorders of such individual, shall be disregarded. Provides for a general deductible from: (1) the reasonable costs of inpatient hospital services past the 60th day; and (2) inpatient hospital benefits of the higher of the following: (A) $2,000, or (B) $2,000 adjusted by the Consumer Price Index to reflect changes in fees for physician services (in $100 increments). Permits payments for specified mental health care services. Requires the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to promulgate regulations prescribing standards designed to assure that services consisting of the furnishing of blood or blood products, or the application of procedures or courses of treatment which are experimental or extraordinarily complex, will be provided only when such services are appropriate to the health care needs of the patient. Creates, in the United States Treasury, a Federal Catastrophic Health Insurance Trust Fund to provide a reserve for payment of benefits authorized by this Act. States that individuals covered under approved employer or self-employed plans shall be entitled to those benefits rather than the benefits provided by the catastrophic health insurance plan. Defines the term "employer plan" as meaning an insurance policy, contract, or other arrangement entered into between an employer and a carrier under which the carrier, in consideration of premiums or other periodic payments, undertakes to pay for the costs of health services received by the employer's employees. Requires that the coverage provided under such plans must include a package of benefits which is the same as that provided by the Federal catastrophic health insurance benefits plan established under this Act. Sets forth additional requirements governing employer health plans. Establishes an Actuarial Committee to prepare and recommend annually to the Secretary a Table of Values of Catastrophic Health Insurance Coverage, which shall establish the actuarial value of one year's catastrophic health insurance coverage for employers, carriers, and others involved in the programs. Allows an income tax credit under the Internal Revenue Code for the actuarial value of catastrophic health insurance coverage for the self-employed and for employees covered under approved employer plans. Title II: Medical Assistance Plan for Low-Income People - Provides, for low-income individuals and families, assistance toward the costs of necessary hospital, skilled nursing facility, medical and other health care services. Guarantees free choice by inpatients of health services from any person, institution, or agency qualified under this Act. Permits individuals the option of obtaining other health insurance protection. Describes the medical assistance plan, what individuals are eligible to receive its health benefits, and the application procedure. Enumerates the scope of benefits under the plan, including: (1) 60 days of inpatient hospital services; (2) skilled nursing facility services; and (3) home health services. Prescribes the co-payment requirements and procedures of persons eligible for benefits. Makes special provisions relating to Medicaid eligibles and the circumstances under which such persons are eligible for health benefits under this title. Authorizes the Secretary to require consolidation of facilities of carriers and intermediaries in geographic regions with minimum size populations of persons covered under this title. Creates the Medical Coverage Trust Fund to consist of gifts and bequests and held by a Board of Trustees. Makes provisions for State contributions to the Fund. Authorizes appropriations to the Fund for each fiscal year of sums necessary to carry out the purposes of this title. Sets forth the definitions of terms used in this title, including the meaning of "income," "health care expenses," and "inpatient hospital services. Prohibits exclusion by employers of specified employees from coverage under group health insurance plans. Title III: Private Basic Health Insurance Certification Program - States that any insurer may provide any health insurance policy to the Secretary for his examination and certification. Sets forth the standards under which the Secretary shall not certify any such insurance policy. Title IV: Amendments to the Medicare Program Immunizations - Authorizes payments for immunizations which the Secretary determines are appropriate under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, but only if provided on a schedules allowance basis, as determined under regulations promulgated by the Secretary. Extends coverage of the renal disease program authorized under such Act to specified individuals not previously covered. Title V: General Provisions Relating to Health Insurance Under Social Security Act - Requires the Secretary to establish a separate organizational unit within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare under the direction of the Assistant Secretary for Health Insurance Administration, who shall report directly to the Secretary and who shall have policy and administrative responsibility for the programs established by this Act and by the unemployment compensation, medicare, medicaid, and renal disease programs of the Social Security Act. Expresses the policy of Congress to encourage and expand philanthropic support for health care.
United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1975
Increases the amount of the estate tax exemption under the Internal Revenue Code from $60,000 to $150,000. Provides that farmland included in the gross estate be valued according to its use as farmland.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1975
Revises the eligibility requirements for participation in the food stamp program by requiring that such standards prescribe schedules specifying the amount to be paid by households of different sizes on the basis of the net income and assets fo each such household. Requires that such income and assets be adjusted semiannually to reflect any changes in cost of living during the preceding six-month period. Authorizes a standard deduction of $120 in determining eligibility, plus an additional deduction of $60 in the case of any household with one or more persons sixty years of age or older. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to prescribe a single form for eligibility certification of participants in the food stamp program, the supplemental security income program, the aid to families with dependent children program, and the old age, survivors, and disability insurance program under the Social Security Act. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to cooperatively formulate a proposal for a cooperative nutritional status monitoring system, and submit recommendations for such legislation as may be necessary to carry out such proposal. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to carry out experimental simplified eligibility certification procedures and to establish a realistic set of goals to improve quality control and administrative efficiency under this Act. Specifies that each State must develop and submit to the Secretary a State quality control plan which shall specify the actions such State proposes to take in order to meet the error tolerance goals established by the Secretary. Authorizes the Secretary to withhold funds from States which fail to carry out the quality control plan approved for such State. Requires the Secretary to prepare and submit to the Congress annually an evaluation plan and a report on the food stamp program.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1975
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President should, upon his visit to the People's Republic of China, request that the Chinese officials use their offices to obtain an accounting of members of the United States Armed Forces missing in action and confined as prisoners of war in Southeast Asia.
United States · United States Congress · 16 September 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to prescribe alternative simplified methods for providing disclosure to participants in smaller pension plans under the reporting requirements of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974.
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1975
Natural Gas Emergency Act - Defines terms used in this Act. Directs the Federal Power Commission, not later than the end of the fifteen-day period which begins on the date of enactment of this Act, and as necessary throughout the supply emergency period, upon petition or upon its own motion, to designate priority interstate purchasers. Stipulates that the Commission shall, by rule, not later than the end of the fifteen-day period which begins on the date of enactment of this Act, establish an area ceiling price applicable to any first sale of new natural gas (except first sales of new natural gas produced from lands located on the Outer Continental Shelf) for each area in the United States in which natural gas is produced. Directs the Commission to designate areas to which such ceiling prices shall apply. Requires that such ceiling price shall, to the maximum extent practicable, approximate the average sales price, as determined by the Commission, for contracts entered into or renewed during the period from August 1, 1975, through August 31, 1975, for natural gas produced in the area and sold in intrastate commerce. Provides that no producer may charge and no purchaser may pay a price for the first sale of new natural gas occurring after September 8, 1975, which price exceeds the applicable area ceiling price established by the Commission. Requires new natural gas produced from lands located on the Outer Continental Shelf be sold in interstate commerce. Stipulates that the Commission shall, by rule, upon petition or upon its own motion, prohibit any interruption or curtailment of natural gas supplies, and take such other actions under authority of the Natural Gas Act and this Act as the Commission determines to be necessary and appropriate, to assure to the maximum extent practicable the availability of sufficient quantities of natural gas for use for any essential agricultural, food processing or food packaging purposes as determined by the Secretary of Agriculture, for which natural gas is necessary, as determined by the Secretary of Agriculture. Directs the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration to, by rule, prohibt any powerplant from burning natural gas if he determines that: (1) such powerplant had, on September 1, 1975 (or at any time thereafter), the capability and necessary plant equipment to burn petroleum products; (2) the burning of petroleum products by such plant in lieu of natural gas is practicable; (3) petroleum products will be available during the period the order is in effect; and (4) natural gas made available as the result of such prohibiton could be available, directly or indirectly, to a priority interstate purchaser. Requires the Administrator to prohibit the use of natural gas by any powerplant if the Administrator determines: (1) that alternative supplies of electric power are available to the electric power system of which such powerplant is a part; (2) that the generation of such alternative supply of electric power will not result in an overall increase in consumption of natural gas; and (3) natural gas made available as the result of such prohibiton could be made available, directly or indirectly, to a priority interstate purchaser. Authorizes the Commission to direct any pipeline to establish a physical interconnection between any specified facility of any other such pipeline. Provides that the Commission shall apportion equitably the costs of any such interconnection to the pipeline, to priority interstate purchasers initially benefiting therefrom, or to both. Sets forth penalties for violation of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1975
Grants the Federal Power Commission emergency authority to exempt temporarily any activities or operations relating to the sale, transportation, transfer, or exchange in interstate commerce of natural gas or of commingled natural gas and synthetic natural gas, from the provisions of the Natural Gas Act, in order to alleviate the hardships caused by the natural gas shortage.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1975
Provides, under title XX (Grants to States for Services) of the Social Security Act, that no State shall be required to administer individual means tests for provision of education, nutrition, transportation, recreation, socialization, or associated services provided thereunder to groups of low-income individuals aged sixty or older.
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1975
Combined Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance - Income Tax Reporting Amendments - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to make available specified tax returns to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. Empowers the Secretary of HEW and the Secretary of the Treasury to enter into an agreement for the processing of information contained in such returns. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to provide to the Secretary of HEW any documents they agree are necessary for such processing. Directs the Managing Trustee of the Trust funds established pursuant to the Social Security Act, including the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund, to pay into the Treasury the amounts he and the Secretary of HEW estimate will be expended from the general fund of the Treasury by the Departments of HEW and Treasury for the administration of (1) titles II and XVIII of the Social Security Act, and (2) specified chapters and subchapters of the Internal Revenue Code. Requires the Secretary of HEW to apportion (between each trust fund and the general fund in the Treasury) the costs of administrating titles II, XVI and XVIII of the Social Security Act and its costs in carrying out specified functions of this Act. Revises the formula by which the adjustment to the contribution and benefit base is to be computed following an increase in social security benefits.
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to transfer the nuclear ship Savannah to Patriot's Point Development Authority, an agency of the State of South Carolina, to be used as a museum ship and for other public purposes.
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 1975
Broadcast License Renewal Act - Sets the term of a broadcast or any other class of license at five years and states that renewals may be granted for a term of not to exceed five years if the Commission finds that the public interest, convenience, and necessity would be served thereby. Requires the Commission to establish procedures to be followed by licensees of broadcasting stations to ascertain throughout the terms of their licenses the problems, needs, and interest of the residents of their service areas for purposes of their program service. Directs the Federal Communications Commission to conduct a study to determine how it might expedite the elimination of those regulations of broadcast licensees required by the Communications Act of 1934 which do not serve the public interest and to make annual reports of the results of such study (including any recommendations for legislation) to the Committee on Commerce of the Senate and the Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce of the House of Representatives.
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 1975
Establishes within the Department of the Interior an additional Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Indian Affairs to be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Sets forth changes to existing laws as required by the replacement of the position of Commissioner of Indian Affairs by the position of Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Indian Affairs.
United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1975
Expresses the disapproval of the United States Senate of attempts to expel Israel for the United Nations. States that if Israel is expelled the Senate will review United States commitments to the Third World nations involved in the expulsion and will consider the implication of continued membership in the United Nations.
United States · United States Congress · 15 July 1975
Makes it a crime punishable by up to 10 years in prison, or a $5,000 fine, or both, to take a controlled substance, as defined by the Controlled Substances Act, from a registered pharmacy by force or intimidation.
![Official portrait of Sen. Hollings, Ernest F. [D-SC]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/h000725_200.jpg)