United States · United States Congress · 29 September 1976
United States Customs Court Act - Declares that the United States Customs Court, in all actions properly pending before it, shall possess all the powers of a district court of the United States. Repeals the requirement that not more than five judges of such court be appointed from the same political party. Confers exclusive jurisdiction on the Customs Court over petitions for immediate relief brought by any person who is authorized by statute to contest a final order decision of the Secretary of the Treasury or of the United States Customs Service and who is likely to sustain immediate and irreparable injury as a result of a preliminary order or decision relating to an actual or attempted importation prior to such final order or decision. (Amends 28 U.S.C. 251, 1582)
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1976
Expresses the Senate's gratitude to Mike Mansfield of Montana for his participation in the Government and his service on behalf of the Nation's people.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1976
Consumer Communications Reform Act - States that Congress finds that the revenues from integrated interstate and foreign common carrier telecommunications services helped maintain a level of charges for telephone exchange service which is lower than otherwise would be required. Expresses the sense of Congress that the authorization of lines, facilities, or services of specialized carriers which duplicate the lines, facilities, or services of other telecommunications common carriers is contrary to the public interest. Reaffirms the intent of Congress that the complete authority to regulate terminal and station equipment used for telephone exchange service shall rest with the States even though such terminal and station equipment also may be used in connection with interstate services. Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to provide that no compensatory charges for or in connection with such communication service may be found to be unjust or unreasonable on the ground that it is too low. Prohibits the Federal Communications Commission from holding the charge of a carrier up to a particular level to protect the traffic or revenues from a communication service offered or provided by another carrier if such charge proposed by the carrier is compensatory. Grants the Commission jurisdiction to approve the acquisition of control by a domestic common carrier of any other domestic common carrier or to approve the acquisition by a person which is not a common carrier of control of any domestic common carrier or the acquisition of the whole or any part of the property of a domestic common carrier after determining that the acquisition is in the public interest. Provides that the Commission shall not grant or authorize any construction permit, station license, or certificate, for the construction, acquisition, or operation of any communication or transmission line or facility, or extension thereof, or any modification or renewal thereof, unless the Commission shall find, after full opportunity for evidentiary hearing on the record, that such permit, license, or certificate will not result in increased charges or unnecessary duplication of communication lines.
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1976
Establishes an Antitrust Review and Revision Commission to study the antitrust laws of the United States, their applications, and their consequences, including the effect of antitrust laws on: (1) price levels, product quality and service; (2) employment, productivity, and profits; and (3) economic growth. Specifies the membership, method of appointment, and manner of compensation of the members of the Commission. States that the Commission shall make a report of its findings and conclusions no later than two years after its first meeting, and that the Commission shall cease to exist 60 days after the submission of such report. Authorizes appropriations in such amount as may be necessary to carry out the activities of the Commission. States the effective date of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 August 1976
Designates the extension of the Senate Office Building presently under construction pursuant to the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 1973, as the "Philip A. Hart Office Building."
United States · United States Congress · 26 August 1976
Urges the President to direct United States Ambassadors abroad to seek the consideration by foreign governments of suspension of their air service to any foreign nation aiding or abetting terrorism. States that the President should undertake international discussions and negotiations which would strengthen the current minimum safety standards established pursuant to the Convention on International Civil Aviation. Urges the President to end air transportation between the United States and any foreign nation which violates such act; services violating nations; or does not maintain transportation security sufficient to meet the minimum security standards established pursuant to the Convention.
United States · United States Congress · 2 July 1976
Includes within the meaning of the term "hospital" in Title XVIII (Medicare) and XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act, rural health facilities of 50 beds or less.
United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1976
Act for the Prevention and Punishment of Crimes Against Internationally Protected Persons - Establishes penalties for killing, attempting to kill, kidnapping, assaulting, or threatening a foreign officer, official guest, or internationally protected person. Establishes additional penalties for assault on such persons with a deadly or dangerous weapon. Defines "internationally protected person" to mean a chief of state, head of government, or foreign minister, and any member of his family accompanying him. Establishes penalties for willfully intimidating, coercing, or harassing an official guest and for obstructing a foreign official in the performance of official duties. Establishes penalties for committing specified acts on or within 100 feet of any building or premises used by a foreign government, foreign official, or international organization for diplomatic or residential purposes if such acts are intended to intimidate, coerce, threaten, or harass any foreign official or obstruct such individual in the performance of official duties. Authorizes the United States, if the victim of an offense under this Act is an internationally protected person, to exercise jurisdiction over the offense if the alleged offender is present within the United States, irrespective of the place where the offense was committed or the nationality of the victim or the alleged offender. Authorises the Attorney General to request assistance from any Federal, State, or local agency, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force, any statute, rule, or regulation to the contrary notwithstanding, in order to enforce this Act. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 112, 970, 1116, 1201; Adds 18 U.S.C. 878)
United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1976
Amends the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 to raise the monetary limit applicable to drug-related judicial forfeitures for violation of the customs laws from $2,500 to $10,000.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1976
Federal Officials' Anti-Defamation Act - Stipulates that any person who with actual malice makes any false and defamatory communication concerning a Federal official which results or tends to result in pecuniary or nonpecuniary loss to such individual shall be liable for damages sustained. Charges the plaintiff in such actions with the burden of proof. Entitles the plaintiff to recover punitive damages if the defendant is guilty of gross abuse, outrageous conduct, or oppression resulting in aggravated injury sustained by the plaintiff. Prohibits the use of the defense that the false and defamatory communication in issue was reprinted or in any manner repeated from another source. Grants Federal district courts original jurisdiction over civil actions brought under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 June 1976
Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act - Grants United States district courts original jurisdiction without regard to the amount in controversy in any nonjury civil action against a foreign state as to any claim for relief in personam with respect to which the foreign state is not entitled to immunity. Stipulates that, in all such cases, district courts shall have personal jurisdiction over a foreign state where the prescribed service of process is made. Stipulates that a foreign state is not immune from the jurisdiction of U.S. courts if: (1) the state has waived its immunity either explicitly or by implication; (2) the action is based upon specified commercially related activities; (3) the action is based upon rights in specified property, connected with commercial activity, taken in violation of international law; (4) the issue is rights in U.S. property acquired by succession or gift or rights in immovable U.S. property; or (5) money damages are sought against a foreign state for personal injury or death, or damage to or loss of property, occurring in the U.S. and caused by the tortious act or omission of the foreign state or its official or employee acting within the scope of his office or employment. Exempts from the latter category claims based upon discretionary functions and claims arising out of malicious prosecution, abuse of process, libel, slander, misrepresentation, deceit, or interference with contract rights. Stipulates that foreign states are not immune from jurisdiction of U.S. courts in the case of admiralty suits brought to enforce a maritime lien against a foreign state's vessel or cargo, which lien is based upon the state's commercial activity. Requires that proper notice be given to the person, or his agent, having possession of the vessel or cargo against which the lien is asserted and to the foreign state. Directs that the lien thereafter be deemed an in personam claim against the foreign state and that the court may not award judgement greater than the value of the vessel or cargo. Exempts foreign states from the jurisdiction of U.S. and State courts in cases relating to debt obligations incurred for general governmental purposes unless such immunity has been explicitly waived or the case arises under a statute administered by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Denies a foreign state, which brings or intervenes in an action in a U.S. court, immunity with respect to any counterclaim: (1) where it would not otherwise be entitled to immunity under this Act had such claim been brought in a separate action against the foreign state; (2) arising out of the transaction or occurrence that is the subject matter of the matter of the foreign state's claim; or (3) to the extent that the counterclaim does not seek relief exceeding in amount or differing in kind from that sought by the foreign state. Sets forth procedures for service of process, time to answer, and default, subject to existing and future agreements to which the U.S. is a party. Stipulates that, subject to such agreements, property of a foreign state in the U.S. shall be immune from attachment and execution except as permitted under this Act. Includes within such exceptions specified U.S. property used by a foreign state for commercial activity and any property in the U.S. of an agency or instrumentality of a foreign state which engages in commercial activity in the U.S., subject to enumerated restrictions and conditions. Exempts from attachment or any other judicial process the property of those organizations designated by the President as entitled to fall within the provisions of the International Organizations Immunities Act. Exempts from attachment and execution, property: (1) of a foreign central bank or monetary authority held for its own account, unless it, or its parent government, has waived such immunity; and (2) used, or intended for use, in connection with a military activity where the property is of a military character and is under the control of a military authority or defense agency. Specifies the proper district for bringing civil actions against a foreign state. Authorizes removal of such cases from State to U.S. district courts by the foreign state. (Adds 28 U.S.C. 1330, 1602-11; Amends 28 U.S.C. 1332, 1391, 1441)
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1976
Authorizes the Architect of the Capitol to perform such work as may be necessary to prevent further deterioration of historically significant sections of the Congressional Cemetery. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a study for the purpose of formulating proposals for the renovation and maintenance of such areas by the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1976
Dairy and Meat Import Inspection and Identification Act - Title I: Dairy Products - Defines terms used in this title. Prohibits the importation of dairy products into the United States unless the Secretary of Agriculture has certified that such products are wholesome and pure and that the plants in which such products were manufactured or processed comply with minimum standards of sanitation prescribed by the Secretary. Requires that the standards established under this title be comparable to those imposed upon domestic dairy products. Directs the Secretary to inspect imported dairy products and to require that such products be accompanied by a certificate of compliance indicating that such products conform to the minimum standards established under this Act. Provides for the assessment of fees on imported dairy products to cover the cost of inspections and certificates required by this title. Title II: Meat and Meat Products - Prohibits the importation of meat or meat products capable of use as human food into the United States unless tests have been conducted to determine whether such articles contain any substance prohibited in any carcass or meat product from any domestically produced animal or contain a level of any substance in excess of the maximum allowable level for domestically produced meat products. Stipulates that such tests may be conducted by persons in the exporting country if such individuals have been certified to do so under the same criteria as persons certified by the Department of Agriculture to conduct such test on articles of animals produced in the United States. Provides for the assessment of fees on such imported products to cover the costs of inspections and testing required under this title. Title III: Study; Effective Date - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to conduct a study to determine the most practicable and effective method of requiring imported meat and dairy products to bear lables identifying such products as being imported.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1976
National Court of Appeals Act - Establishes a National Court of Appeals to be composed of a chief judge appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, and six associate judges. Directs that the principal seat of the Court be in the District of Columbia. Grants the Court jurisdiction over cases referred to it by the Supreme Court. Authorizes the Court to deny review of any case so referred unless the Supreme Court directs it to decide the case. Makes the Court's decisions binding on all United States' courts unless modified or overruled by the Supreme Court. Stipulates that any case in the Court may be reviewed by the Supreme Court by writ of certiorari granted upon the petition of any party to any such case before or after rendition of judgment or decree. Makes specified technical and conforming amendments. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as are necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act. (Adds 28 U.S.C. 21-28, 691-693, 1271-2, 1259)
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1976
Narcotic Sentencing and Seizure Act - Title I: Mandatory Minimum Sentences - Amends the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 to impose specified minimum penalties on individuals convicted of enumerated offenses related to the distribution, transportation, and manufacture of opiates. Permits the court to sentence the defendant to a shorter term of parole ineligibility or imprisonment if, at the time of the offense, the offender was: (1) less than 18 years old; (2) mentally impaired; (3) under unusual and substantial duress; or (4) an accomplice whose participation in the offense was minor. Amends the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure to require a hearing to determine whether a term of imprisonment and parole ineligibility is mandatory in the case of an individual convicted of an opiate-related offense under this Act. Title II: Conditions of Release - Requires judicial officers setting conditions of release for any person charged with an opiate-related offense under this Act to consider which conditions will assure the safety of the community and of witnesses to the offense and which conditions will reasonably assure the avoidance of future similar offenses by the person charged. Permits judicial officers to deny the release of any such person if that person: (1) has previously been convicted of an offense related to an opiate; (2) at the time of the offense was on parole, probation, or other conditional release; (3) is a nonresident alien; (4) was arrested while in possession of a passport or other documentation necessary for international travel incorrectly identifying such person or belonging to someone else; or (5) has been convicted of having been a fugitive from justice, an escapee, or for willfully failing to appear before a court of judicial officer under Federal or State law. Stipulates that no individual shall be denied release unless the judicial officer holds a hearing and finds that there are no satisfactory conditions of release and that there is a substantial probability that the person committed the charged offense. Title III: Forfeiture of Proceeds of Illegal Drug Transactions - Makes all proceeds of an offense described in this Act subject to forfeiture to the United States. Title IV: Illegal Export of Cash - Requires that anyone who intends to transport, or have transported, monetary instruments in an amount exceeding $5,000 from any place within the U.S. to or through any place outside the U.S., or from any place outside the U.S. to or through any place within the U.S. file a report containing specified information. Requires that such reports also be filed by anyone who receives monetary instruments in an amount exceeding $5,000 at the termination of their transportation by common carrier to the United States from or through any place outside the U.S. Permits any Customs officer to search individuals and objects without a warrant where probable cause exists to believe that the report requirement for transport and receipt of monetary instruments has been violated and where exigent circumstances prevent obtaining a warrant. Title V: Prompt Reporting of Vessels - Requires the master of any vessel from a foreign port or of a foreign vessel from a domestic port, or of a vessel of the U.S. carrying bonded merchandise, or foreign merchandise for which entry has not been made, arriving at any place within the U.S., to immediately report the arrival of the vessel at the nearest custom-house.
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 · 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 · 23 March 1976
Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act - Requires the Chief Justice of the United States to designate seven district court judges, each of whom shall have jurisdiction to hear applications for and grant orders approving electronic surveillance anywhere within the United States. Requires the Chief Justice to designate three Federal judges to comprise a special court of appeals which shall have jurisdiction to hear an appeal by the United States from the denial of any application. Grants the United States a further right to appeal an affirmance of denial to the Supreme Court. Requires each application for any order approving electronic surveillance for foreign intelligence purposes to be approved by the Attorney General and to include: (1) the identity of the officer making the application; (2) the authority conferred on the applicant by the President and the approval of the Attorney General to make the application; (3) the identity of the subject of the surveillance; (4) the fact and circumstances justifying belief that the target of surveillance is a foreign power or an agent of a foreign power; (5) a description of the type of information sought and a certification by one of specified Federal officers that such information is foreign intelligence information that cannot feasibly be obtained by normal investigative techniques; and (6) a statement of the period of time for which the surveillance is required. Directs the judge to enter an ex parte order as requested or as modified approving the electronic surveillance if he finds that the criteria specified have been met. Allows issuance of orders to approve surveillance for 90 days or the period necessary to achieve its purposes, whichever is less. Permits extensions of orders upon application for an extension made in the same manner as required for an original application. Authorizes the Attorney General, upon a reasonable determination that an emergency situation exists, to authorize the emergency employment of electronic surveillance if the appropriate judge is informed by the Attorney General of such authorization at the time it is made and if an application is made as soon as practicable but not more than 24 hours after authorization. Requires, in the absence of a judicial order, that surveillance terminate when the information sought is obtained, when the application for an order is denied, or 24 hours after authorization, whichever is earliest. Allows information acquired from electronic surveillance conducted pursuant to this Act to be used and disclosed only for designated purposes or for the enforcement of the criminal law. Requires, when an order to approve the emergency employment of electronic surveillance is not obtained, that the judge serve notice on the individual subject to surveillance of the fact of the application, the period of surveillance, and the fact that information was or was not obtained. Permits the judge to delay or forego this action on a showing of good cause. Requires the Attorney General to submit an annual report to the Administrative Office of the United States Courts and to Congress including: (1) the number of applications made for orders and extensions of orders approving electronic surveillance and the number of such orders and extensions granted, modified, and denied; (2) the periods of time for which orders authorized surveillances and their actual duration; (3) the number of surveillances in place at any time during the preceding year; and (4) the number of surveillances terminated during the preceding year. Declares that nothing contained in this Act shall limit the Constitutional power of the President to order electronic surveillances for specified national security reasons if the facts and circumstances giving rise to such order are beyond the scope of this Act. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 2521-2528)
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Authorizes the Secretary of Labor, under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, to make visits to the work place of any employer, upon the request of the employer, to consult with and advise the employer concerning the obligations of the employer under such Act. Directs the Secretary to give priority to small business and hazardous workplaces. Stipulates that no consultative visit made under this Act may serve as an inspection or investigation as otherwise provided for by the Occupational Safety and Health Act, except: (1) in the case of an employer who fails to eliminate a danger disclosed during such a visit; or (2) if conditions are found during such a visit which indicate the probability that death or serious harm could result to employees therefrom, the Secretary may notify the employer of such conditions and afford him a reasonable time to eliminate such conditions. Prohibits the transmission of information obtained during a consultative visit to representatives of the Secretary engaged in enforcement. Directs the Secretary to establish education programs to inform employers and employees of the hazards in particular industries. Authorizes the appropriation of funds through fiscal year 1978 for the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Amends the Farm Labor Registration Act of 1963 to exempt from the registration requirements of such Act, persons who engage solely in the contracting of combine machine operating crews for the harvesting of grain or the contracting of individuals for the shearing of sheep.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1976
Constitutional Amendment - Provides that the Congress shall seek to assure that the total outlays of the Government during any fiscal year do not exceed the total receipts of the Government during such fiscal year. Directs the President to ascertain the total receipts and outlays of the Government during each fiscal year. Provides that if the total receipts are less than the total outlays, the President shall determine the percentage rate of income tax surtax to be imposed to equal the amount by which such total receipts are less than total outlays. Provides that the income tax surtax, which would otherwise be in effect for the year, may be suspended in case of a grave national emergency declared by Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1976
Small Business Employers' Occupational Safety and Health Act Amendments - Directs the Secretary of Labor, under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, to visit the workplaces of small business employers of 25 employees or less to provide consultation and advice. Stipulates that such visits may be conducted only upon valid request, and shall be limited to matters specified in the request affecting conditions, structures, machines, apparatuses, devices, equipment, or materials in the workspace. Directs the Secretary to make recommendations regarding the elimination of any hazards disclosed within the scope of the on-site consultation. Prohibits the issuance of notices, citations, or penalties as a result of such visit. Requires that upon issuance of a citation to a small business for violations of standards, notice shall be given to such small business of the availability of financial assistance to correct violations.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1976
Makes it unlawful for any individual or entity to solicit or enroll any member of the armed forces in any labor organization, or for any member of the armed forces to join, or encourage other members to join, any labor union. Prescribes a penalty of not more than five years imprisonment for any individual violating this Act, and a fine of not less than $25,000 or more than $50,000 for any labor organization in violation of this Act. (Adds 10 U.S.C. 975)
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1976
Paperwork Review and Limitation Act - Requires, under the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1970, that each public bill or resolution reported by a Congressional committee must be accompanied by a Paperwork Impact Statement which must assess the amount and character of the information that such bill or resolution will require of private individuals and businesses and the cost or time required of such individual or businesses. Requires each committee of Congress to review annually the reporting requirements (including the number and character of reporting forms issued and withdrawn) of any agency under such committee's jurisdiction. States that no Federal agency may collect information from ten or more persons, other than Federal employees, unless the Director of the Office of Management and Budget has approved the proposed collection and the forms to be used. Limits the Director's approval for the collection of information to one year, and provides that the forms used must indicate when such approval expires, and that such forms must indicate that no response is required if the approval date has expired. Requires each agency to report annually to the Director and Congress concerning all forms such agency has issued or withdrawn during the calendar year. Requires the Director to study the feasibility of requiring a single standard form for collecting information by all Federal agencies and to report the results of such study not later than one year after the enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1976
Requires the United States Postal Service to consider specified factors in determining the need for an existing third- or fourth-class post office. Sets guidelines relating to such determinations.
United States · United States Congress · 6 February 1976
Alaskan Natural Gas Pipeline Authorization Act - Expresses the intent of Congress that the Alaskan natural gas pipeline be constructed promptly, without further administrative or judicial delay or impediment. Declares that the most efficient and economical method available for the transportation of Alaskan natural gas is a pipeline system from northern Alaska, across Canada, to the lower forty-eight States. Directs the Federal Power Commission to issue all necessary permits and authorizations in order to expedite the construction and operation of such pipeline within 60 days of the date of enactment of this Act. Grants the holders of such permits the powers of eminent domain under the Natural Gas Act. Directs the Secretary of the Interior and other appropriate Federal officials to issue all necessary permits and to take appropriate action within 60 days to expedite the enforcement of all rights-of-way related to the construction and operation of such pipeline. Requires compliance with requirements of the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920 relating to rights-of-way for pipelines through Federal lands. Exempts such pipeline from requirements concerning (1) environmental protection, (2) technical and financial capacity of applicants, (3) public hearings, (4) licensing requirements for crude oil under the Export Administration Act of 1969, and (5) furnishing of specified information and reports. Authorizes the Secretary and the Commission to waive procedural requirements of Federal law where desirable to accomplish the purposes of this Act. Declares that (1) the actions of Federal officers and agencies under this Act and (2) the legal or factual sufficiency of any environmental statement relative to such pipeline under provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, 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 sixty days following the date of the challenged action. Declares that exclusive jurisdiction shall be vested in the United States district courts, and that review of any final order shall be had only upon direct appeal to the United States Supreme Court. Declares that the district 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. Recognizes that approval by the Government of Canada is necessary in order to construct such pipeline. Declares it to be in the national interest of the United States to cooperate with Canada should such approval be forthcoming. Declares that authorizations issued pursuant to this Act shall grant no immunity from Federal antitrust laws.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1976
Capital Formation Incentive Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) exclude from gross income up to $500 of interest and dividends received on savings deposits with a financial institution; (2) exclude from gross income up to $1,000 of amounts realized as gain by an individual from the sale or exchange of stock or securities which are capital assets in the hands of the taxpayer; (3) reduce the corporate normal tax and the surtax and to increase the corporate surtax exemption; (4) increase the carryover period for unused investment credits; (5) exclude from gross income dividends paid to an individual by a domestic corporation in an amount up to 25 percent of the taxpayer's taxable income; (6) allow corporations a deduction for dividends paid on preferred stock; and (7) allow 12 month amortization of pollution control facilities.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1976
Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to pay a specified sum to innocent victims of the occupation of Wounded Knee, South Dakota, in full settlement of their claims against the United States for loss of life, personal injuries, and damages to their real and personal property which occurred between February 27, 1973, and May 8, 1973.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1976
Amends the Education Amendments of 1972 to exempt Boys State, Boys Nation, Girls State and Girls Nation conferences, from the sex discrimination provisions of such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1976
Emergency Food Stamp Vendor Accountability Act - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, under the Food Stamp Act of 1964, to prescribe regulations to be followed by food coupon vendors with respect to the depositing of funds received for such coupons and the accounting for such funds to the State and Federal Governments. Requires vendors to deposit such funds weekly in accordance with Department of Agriculture regulations. Requires more frequent deposit of balances of $1,000 or more. States that vendors act as fiduciaries of the Federal Government when receiving food coupon funds. Prohibits the use of such funds by vendors for the benefit of anyone other than the Federal Government. Requires vendors to report periodically to State and Federal Government agencies the amount of funds deposited. Establishes criminal penalties for the violation of the regulations established in accordance with this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1976
Amends the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act of 1973 to stipulate that price controls shall not apply to the first sale of crude oil produced from domestic wells whose daily production of crude oil for the preceding year did not exceed ten barrels per well.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Small Business Estate and Gift Tax Reform Act - Revises, under the Internal Revenue Code, the rate of tax imposed on transfers of taxable estates. Increases the present $60,000 exemption from such tax to $80,000 in 1976, $100,000 in 1978, and $120,000 in 1980. Alters possible gift tax exemptions of a decedent's estate in 1980. Provides that in the computation of the value of a taxable estate, where a bequest is made to the surviving spouse, the limitation on the aggregate of deductions is increased from 50 percent to $240,000 plus fifty percent of the excess of the adjusted gross estate. Allows, in the determination of the value of a decedent's property held as farming property or scenic open property, the consideration of effective restrictions on its use for other purposes. Increases the gift tax exemption from $30,000 to $60,000. Allows a taxpayer to claim, under conditions prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury or his delegate, an additional exemption which would otherwise be allowed his estate upon his death. Revises the gift tax exemption permitted for gifts to spouses from one half of the transferred property's value to so much of its value as does not exceed $240,000, plus one half of the excess. Extends from 10 to 15 the number of equal installments in which estate taxes on an estate consisting largely of an interest in closely held business may be paid. Permits the Secretary or his delegate, with the taxpayer's consent, to impose a lien on the closely held business assets which constitute the basis for the extension. Allows such lien in lieu of requiring a bond, but treats it as a bond for purposes of the discharge of fiduciary impersonal liability. Revises the eligibility of specified corporations for stock redemption rules and increases the period within which distributions in redemption of stock to pay death taxes must be made. Requires the Secretary or his delegate to study: (1) hardship extensions of the time for payment of estate tax and installments thereof, and (2) extensions of time for payment of estate tax where the estate consists largely of an interest in a closely held business as such extensions affect decisions to continue or dispose of a small or closely held business. Orders a report of such study to be submitted to Congress within 12 months of enactment of these provisions, such report to include findings, conclusions, and recommendations for legislation.
United States · United States Congress · 16 December 1975
Provides that before any rule promulgated by any agency can become effective, it must be submitted to the Congress for approval. Requires that an economic impact statement accompany such submission. Authorizes agencies to make rules which impose a penalty upon an employer of an employee who violates any rule or regulation in effect against such employer. States that no agency may require an applicant or a party to an agency proceeding to provide such agency with information or documents which have been previously furnished to such agency or which are not directly relevant to such application or proceeding. Entitles the applicant for any license to reimbursement by such agency for the complete costs of such party's application if such agency has not made a final determination in the licensing proceeding within six months of the date of announcement of the initiation of any such proceeding.
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 1975
National Court of Appeals Act - Establishes a National Court of Appeals composed of a chief judge and six associate judges appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Provides for the tenure and salary of such judges. Provides for the sessions of such National Court. Provides for the employment of a clerk, law clerks, librarian, marshal, bailiffs, and other personnel of such National Court. Sets forth the jurisdiction and power of review of such National Court. Provides that the National Court shall have jurisdiction of cases referred to it by the Supreme Court. States that such National Court shall have jurisdiction of any case filed or instituted in a court of appeals, the Court of Claims, and the Court of Customs and Patent Appeals, upon transfer of such case to it by any such court. Makes decisions by the National Court binding on all courts of the United States unless modified or overruled by the Supreme Court. Authorizes appropriations of necessary sums to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 December 1975
Federal Appellate Court Revision Act - Title I: Appellate Court Revision - Limits the length of time that a circuit judge may sit as chief judge of a circuit to a maximum of seven years. Requires en banc hearings where ordered by a majority of the circuit judges of a circuit who are in regular active service and are not disqualified from sitting in a hearing or determination of the matter concerned. Establishes a schedule of age plus service time for retirement qualifications of Federal judges. Authorizes legal assistant positions with the Federal courts of appeals. Requires that one copy of the decision, briefs, and related documents filed in connection with each case or controversy in the courts of appeals, the Court of Claims, and the Court of Customs and Patent Appeals be deposited in the Library of Congress. Title II: Commission on the Federal Judicial System - Establishes a Commission on the Federal Judicial System to study the structure and internal procedures of the judicial system. Requires the Commission to submit an annual report to the President, the Congress and the Chief Justice of the United States on the results of the preceding year's study. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as are necessary to enable the Commission to carry out its duties.
United States · United States Congress · 9 December 1975
Extends from January 31, 1976, to April 30, 1976, the authority under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act, of the National Commission for the Review of Federal and State Laws Relating to Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 2510 note)
United States · United States Congress · 9 December 1975
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the signing in Helsinki of the Final Act of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe did not change in any way the longstanding policy of the United States on non-recognition of the Soviet Union's illegal seizure and annexation of the three Baltic nations of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
Directs the Federal courts to consider, in their determinations of the imposition of terms of imprisonment for criminal offenses, the following factors: (1) the nature and circumstances of the offense and the history and charactertics of the defendant; (2) the need for the sentence imposed to reflect the seriousness of the offense and the providing of adequate deterrence to criminal conduct; (3) whether other less restrictive sanctions have been applied to the defendant frequently or recently; and (4) any sentencing guidelines established by the Commission established under this Act. Establishes a United States Commission on Sentencing as an independent commission within the judicial branch of the United States Government. Provides for a membership of such Commission of five members appointed by the United States Judicial Conference. Directs such Commission to promulgate and distribute to all Federal courts guidelines for sentencing consistant with this Act. Empowers the Commission to establish general policies and rules necessary to carry out this Act. Empowers the Commission to utilize the services and information of other Federal, State, local and private agencies with or without reimbursement therefor. Empowers the Commission to establish a research and development program for the purpose of: (1) serving as a clearinghouse and information center for the collection, preparation, and dissemination of information on Federal sentencing practices; and (2) assisting and serving in a consulting capacity to Federal courts, departments, and agencies in the development, maintenance, and coordination of sound sentencing practices. Empowers the Commission to devise and conduct a training program of short-term instruction in sentencing techniques for judicial and probation personnel and other persons connected with the sentencing process. Requires the Commission to report annually to the Congress, the Judicial Conference, and the President on its activities.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
Journalists' Freedom of Choice Act - Revises the National Labor Relations Act to entitle columnists, broadcast journalists, commentators, and critics to bargain with employers with respect to terms and conditions of employment, to present and adjust grievances, and to enter into individual employment contracts without the participation or intervention of the bargaining representative.
United States · United States Congress · 18 November 1975
States that Congress has not delegated to the Federal Trade Commission any authority to determine whether, or to what extent, any rule issued under the Federal Trade Act preempts the laws of the States.
United States · United States Congress · 30 October 1975
Provides that any municipality with a population in excess of one million inhabitants is eligible to file a petition for relief under this Act, if first authorized by the State, for the adjustment of the indebtedness of such municipality by a court of bankruptcy. States that a petition shall be insufficient to involve jurisdiction of the court unless accompanied by a plan made in good faith for the composition or extension of debts and a statement of petitioner's current and projected revenues and expenditures adequate to establish that the budget of petitioner will be in balance within a reasonable time after adoption of the plan. Provides for notice of the provisions of such plan to the State, the Securities and Exchange Commission and creditors or others who may be materially and adversely affected by the plan. Sets forth the priorities with respect to payment of debts in advance of any distribution to creditors in the settlement of obligations under this Act. Provides for a hearing for all interested parties on the confirmation of the plan. States that a plan of composition or extension may be confirmed only if, of the creditors voting in writing to accept or reject the plan, those holding two-thirds in amount of each class materially and adversely affected have voted to accept. Provides that no such acceptance shall be required from any class which, under the plan, is to be paid in cash the value of its claims or is to be afforded such method of protection as will, consistent with the circumstances of the particular case, equitably and fairly provide for the realization of the value of its claims. Prescribes the findings to be made by the judge in entering a decree confirming the plan.
United States · United States Congress · 30 October 1975
Dairy and Meat Import Inspection and Identification Act - Establishes labeling and sanitation requirements for imported meat and dairy products. Title I: Dairy Products - Defines terms as used in this title. Directs that no dairy products shall be imported into the United States unless the Secretary of Agriculture first certifies that such products are wholesome and pure. Requires the Secretary to establish standards comparable to standards imposed upon domestic dairy products. Provides that such imports must comply with United States packaging and labeling requirements. Requires that the package or container of any food product made in whole or in part of imported dairy products shall be labeled "imported" or "imported in part". Establishes criminal penalties for violation of the requirements of this Act. Title II: Meat and Meat Products - Imposes the same labeling requirements on meat products as those imposed by title I of this Act. Requires that such products meet the same health standards as imposed upon domestically produced meats. Requires that inspectors employed by the Department of Agriculture supervise the testing of imported meats. Directs that periodic tests of imported meats shall be conducted in the United States by the Department of Agriculture.
![Official portrait of Sen. Hruska, Roman L. [R-NE]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/h000875_200.jpg)