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United States · Official source
7,990 records where Sen. Kennedy, Edward M. [D-MA] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1989
Victims of Terrorism Judicial Remedy Act - Provides that property of the United States or a foreign state that is used for a commercial activity in the United States shall not be immune from attachment or execution in the case of a claim based upon intentional acts of violence intended to cause, or actually resulting in, bodily harm.
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1989
Allied Health Professionals Promotion Act of 1989 - Amends provisions of the Public Health Service Act relating to grants and contracts concerning training of allied health personnel to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to allocate 75 percent of the funds authorized to those allied health fields or specialties the Secretary determines to have: (1) the most significant shortages of practitioners; and (2) a significant role in the care and rehabilitation of patients who are elderly or disabled. Changes the amount of currently authorized appropriations for FY 1990 and 1991. Directs the Secretary to make grants and enter into contracts to assist allied health students in meeting the costs of entry level education. Requires the amounts to be used for tuition, fees, and stipends and allowances. Directs the Secretary to allocate 75 percent of the funds authorized to those allied health fields the Secretary determines to have: (1) the most significant shortages of practitioners; and (2) a significant role in the care and rehabilitation of patients who are elderly or disabled. Makes payments of tuition under these provisions to, or on behalf of, a participating student, notwithstanding other law, exempt from taxation. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 and 1991. Changes the amount of currently authorized appropriations for traineeships for advanced training of allied health personnel for FY 1990 and 1991. Establishes the Division of Allied Health Professions within the Health Resources and Services Administration's Bureau of Health Professions in order to consolidate and focus the efforts of the Federal Government in support of allied health education, training, and research. Establishes within the Division the Advisory Council on Allied Health. Directs the Secretary to establish a two-year pilot program to make grants to support innovative allied health research projects. Requires the program to be administered through the Division. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 and 1991.
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1989
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Government of Yugoslavia should: (1) guarantee its citizens fundamental human rights and freedoms; (2) grant unconditional amnesty to all political prisoners; (3) dismiss the charges against human rights activist Dobroslav Paraga, allow him and his family to return to their home, and stop harassing them; and (4) investigate the death of Ernest Brajder, who reportedly died under "mysterious circumstances," and make the findings public.
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1989
Requests: (1) the Soviet Union to release the prison records of Raoul Wallenberg and account for his whereabouts; and (2) the President to pursue such release and accounting through diplomatic actions with the Soviet Union.
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1989
Urges the President to ensure that the United States does not submit a proposal to include maritime transportation in the forthcoming General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) discussions regarding trade-in-services industries and to oppose any proposals by foreign nations which are similar or which could result in a contraction of the U.S.-flag merchant marine.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1989
Older Workers Benefit Protection Act - Amends the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA) to specify that it prohibits discrimination against older workers in all employee benefits except when age-based reductions in employee benefit plans are justified by significant cost considerations. Declares that, as used in ADEA, the phrase "compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment" encompasses all employee benefits, including those provided under a bona fide employee benefit plan. Requires that the actual amount of payment made or cost incurred on behalf of an older worker be no less than that made or incurred on behalf of a younger worker, for each benefit or benefit package, in order for an employee benefit plan not to violate ADEA. Places on the employer, employment agency, or labor organization the burden of proving, in any civil enforcement proceeding brought under ADEA, that specified actions are lawful. Requires a seniority system or employee benefit plan to comply with ADEA regardless of the date of adoption of such system or plan. Applies this Act to all actions or proceedings under ADEA that were brought after June 23, 1989, or that were pending on such date (which is the date on which the Supreme Court issued the decision in Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio V. Betts).
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1989
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit tax-exempt private foundations and community foundations to establish tax-exempt cooperative service organizations to operate exclusively for charitable purposes.
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1989
Commends the Honorable John O. Marsh, Jr., Secretary of the Army, for his dedicated and exemplary public service.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1989
National Older American Volunteer Programs Expansion Act of 1989 - Amends the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 to require the Director of the ACTION Agency to establish grants, within each National Older American Volunteer Program, to support programs that address national problems on a local level. Sets forth award criteria and grant use requirements for programs of national and local significance. Gives priority to programs assisting: (1) those with chronic debilitating illnesses such as AIDS; (2) drug and alcohol abuse prevention and treatment; (3) teenage parents; (4) mentoring of youth needing guidance; (5) adult and school-based literacy; (6) respite care; (7) before and after-school programs serving children of working parents; (8) boarder babies; (9) child care, especially of children with special needs; and (10) developmentally disabled adult individuals (and, when appropriate, involvement of such individuals as volunteers). Limits funding of such grants to those years when program funding is increased by a specified amount. Authorizes appropriations in increasing amounts for FY 1990 through 1993 for: (1) the Retired Senior Volunteer Program; (2) the Foster Grandparent Program; and (3) the Senior Companion Program.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1989
Economic Equity Act of 1989 - Title I: Employment - Subtitle A: Pay Equity Technical Assistance to Public and Private Sector - Pay Equity Technical Assistance Act - Directs the Secretary of Labor to develop and implement a continuing program of information dissemination, research, and technical assistance to public and private entities with respect to correction of wage-setting practices, and reduction or elimination of wage disparities, to the extent that they are based on the sex, race, or national origin of the employee, rather than on the work performed and other appropriate factors. Subtitle B: Extension of Benefits to Part-Time and Temporary Workers - Part-Time and Temporary Workers Protection Act of 1989 - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to bring certain part-time employees within the participation, vesting, and accrual rules governing pension plans. Addresses any employee who, within a relevant 12-month period: (1) has customarily completed more than 500 but fewer than 1,000 hours of service; or (2) is employed in a type of position in which employment customarily consists of such a number of hours. Provides that completion of such hours of service will be treated as completion of 1,000 hours of service (thereby bringing the employee within the ERISA benefit framework). Permits a reduction in the employer-provided premium under a group health plan in the case of a part-time employee only when such employee: (1) has customarily completed fewer than 30 hours of service per week; or (2) is employed in a type of position in which employment customarily consists of such a number of hours. Limits such a premium reduction, when permissible, to not less than a ratable portion of the premium ordinarily provided in the case of an employee who completes 30 hours of service per week. Revises the ERISA definition of "employee" to include non-employees who, pursuant to a contract or agreement, provide employee-like services to an employer for at least one year at the rate of 500 or more hours per year. Subtitle C: Federal Council on Women - Federal Council on Women Act - Establishes a Federal Council on Women to: (1) collect and evaluate information with respect to any problems that are particular to women in the United States; (2) review and evaluate Federal policy related to any such problems; (3) coordinate the activities of the Council with similar activities conducted by States, local governments, and concerned organizations; and (4) make recommendations. Directs the Council to report its findings and recommendations to the Congress. Authorizes appropriations. Subtitle D: Women in Business Procurement Assistance - Women's Business Procurement Assistance Act of 1989 - Amends the Small Business Act to add to existing goals for participation of small business concerns in Federal procurement contracts the participation of small business concerns owned and controlled by women. Requires the head of each Federal agency to report to the Small Business Administration (SBA) on the extent that small business concerns owned and controlled by women participate in procurement contracts and subcontracts. Declares it is the policy of the United States that small business concerns owned and controlled by women shall have the maximum opportunity to participate in the performance of contracts and subcontracts let by any Federal agency. Precludes the award of any contract unless the procurement authority determines that the offeror's plan includes the maximum opportunity for participation of small business concerns owned and controlled by women. Authorizes any Federal agency, when dealing with negotiated contracts, to provide such incentives as it may deem appropriate in order to encourage subcontracting opportunities for small business concerns owned and controlled by women. Requires the SBA to report annually to certain congressional committees on subcontracting plans found acceptable by any Federal agency which the SBA determines do not contain maximum opportunities for small business concerns owned and controlled by women. Requires the Director of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization for each Federal agency to designate an employee of that Director's office to be a Women-in-Business Specialist. Requires each Federal agency having procurement powers to affirmatively solicit offers from small business concerns owned and controlled by women and socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. Title II: Economic Security - Subtitle A: Earnings Sharing by Married Couples - Social Security Equity Act of 1989 - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to provide that the combined earnings of a married couple which are attributable to the period of their marriage shall be shared equally between them for purposes of determining the eligibility for, and amount of, OASDI benefits to which each spouse is or may become separately entitled. Credits the survivor of the marriage with 100 percent of the combined total wages for the period of the marriage. Provides that this Act shall not apply in specified cases where it would result in a reduction of OASDI benefits. Sets forth certain age and marriage requirements with which married couples must comply in order for this Act to apply. Subtitle B: Treatment of Disabled Widows and Widowers - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to repeal the separate definition of disability applicable to widows and widowers. Permits the months of a widow's or widower's entitlement to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits (title XVI of the Social Security Act) on the basis of a disability to be counted towards the 24 months needed to become entitled to hospital insurance benefits under Medicare (title XVIII of the Social Security Act) on that basis. Subtitle C: Eligibility of Displaced Homemakers for First-Time Homebuyers Assistance - Displaced Homemakers and Single Parents Homeownership Assistance Act - States that displaced homemakers and single parents shall not be deemed ineligible for Federal assistance for first-time homebuyers on the basis of previous home ownership or residence while married or a homemaker. Subtitle D: Section 8 Housing Assistance for Domestic Violence Victims - Family Housing Options Program Act of 1989 - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to reserve at least five percent of section 8 housing assistance for families affected by domestic violence and for homeless families. Requires administration of such program through the local public housing agencies. Permits assistance to be used in shared housing arrangements if the family receiving assistance so consents. States that rent contributions made by a family in such an arrangement shall not be considered income to the participating family for purposes of specified housing assistance eligibility. Includes among State allocation factors the number of transitional and emergency shelters, domestic violence shelters, and the number of families served by such programs. Requires: (1) each State to make an annual program report to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development; and (2) the Secretary to include a summary of such reports in the annual section 8 report. Title III: Dependent Care - Subtitle A: Dependent Care Tax Credit Expansion - Repeals the Internal Revenue Code's nonrefundable income tax credit for employment-related dependent care expenses, replacing it with a corresponding refundable 50 percent credit, reduced (but not below 20 percent) as the taxpayer's adjusted gross income exceeds $15,000 (adjusted for inflation). Includes within the scope of the new credit up to $1,200 ($2,400 in the case of more than one qualifying individual) of respite care expenses incurred in the care of: (1) a dependent of the taxpayer who is at least 15 years old; or (2) a spouse or other dependent who is physically or mentally incapable of self-care. Subtitle B: Mortgage Financing for Family Day Care Centers - Small Day Care Center Assistance Act - Amends the Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation Act to define the term "mortgage" to include a mortgage secured by a one-to-four family residential property that is occupied as a residence and in which child care service is legally provided. Subtitle C: Child Care Services in Transitional Housing - Transitional Housing Child Care Services Act - Amends the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act to authorize the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to provide child care assistance for transitional housing residents. Subtitle D: Title XX Funding Increase - Amends title XX (Block Grants to States for Social Services) of the Social Security Act to: (1) increase the amount authorized for such program for FY 1990 through 1992; and (2) remove provisions authorizing appropriations for each succeeding fiscal year. Subtitle E: School-Based Child Care - State Dependent Care Grants Amendments Act of 1989 - Amends the State Dependent Care Development Grants Act to authorize the use of funds for operation of school-age child care services before and after school. Requires that such amounts be earmarked to enable children whose families lack adequate financial resources to participate in before or after school child care programs. Requires State Governors to include specified information in their reports on programs assisted under such Act. Extends until September 30, 1993, the period during which descriptions of intended uses of State allotments must be revised to reflect substantial changes. Title IV: Health - Subtitle A: Maternal and Child Health Funding Increases - Amends title V (Maternal and Child Health Services) of the Social Security Act to increase authorized appropriations for such program. Requires States, as a condition of receiving additional funds, to conduct a statewide needs assessment of maternity and infant care, including prenatal care and prevention of low birthweight and infant mortality, and to develop a plan to meet those needs. Changes State reporting requirements to monitor plan implementation results. Subtitle B: Coordination of Health Services for Pregnant Women - Amends title V (Maternal and Child Health Services) of the Social Security Act to increase authorized appropriations for such program. Sets aside certain appropriated amounts for comprehensive State infant mortality initiatives and Federal activities in coordination with such initiatives. Prohibits Federal assistance for such a State initiative unless the State provides assurances that it will: (1) establish a toll-free telephone information and referral system for maternal and child health services; (2) provide technical assistance and public awareness activities regarding the maternal and child health handbook to be disseminated by the Secretary of Health and Human Services; (3) develop and expand maternal and child health home visiting programs; (4) establish a "one-stop shopping," client-centered program under which pregnant women and mothers can apply for a wide range of Government programs in a coordinated manner at a location at which social and health-related services are made available to pregnant women and infants; (5) evaluate the impact of such initiative; and (6) be able to continue such initiative without Federal assistance within five years of the first receipt of such assistance. Directs the Secretary to use a specified portion of set-aside amounts to: (1) provide technical assistance to State initiatives; (2) disseminate a maternal and child health handbook to all pregnant women and new parents; (3) establish a nationwide, toll-free telephone information and referral system for maternal and child health services; (4) develop a model, coordinated application and eligibility determination system for use by States under the Medicaid program (title XIX of the Act) and the special supplemental food program for women, infants, and children; (5) improve the integration and coordination of Federal programs serving pregnant women and children; and (6) monitor and evaluate State infant mortality initiatives. Requires the Secretary to give priority to the initiatives of States demonstrating the greatest need and an ability to implement such initiatives, while recognizing the need for an equitable distribution of assistance among the States. Subtitle C: Infant Mortality - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require States to cover children born after September 30, 1983, whose family income is below the Federal poverty level. Authorizes States to continue such coverage for one year after the family's income rises above the Federal poverty level. Phases in mandatory State coverage of pregnant women and infants whose family income is below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level. Deducts child and medical care costs from the income eligibility test. Requires the continuation of such coverage for women through the month in which the 60-day post-partum period expires, and for infants throughout their first year of life. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to report to the Congress by July 1, 1990, on State error rates in determining the Medicaid eligibility of pregnant women and infants. Suspends error rate penalties attributable to such eligibility determinations made from July 1, 1989, until one year after the Secretary's report. Permits States to provide Medicaid coverage to all children whose family income is below the Federal poverty level. Requires that States make ambulatory prenatal care available to a pregnant woman during a presumptive eligibility period which ends when she is determined to be ineligible for Medicaid benefits or 14 days after she is determined to be eligible, but fails to apply. Amends title V (Maternal and Child Health Services) of the Act to require States to provide outreach services for Medicaid-eligible pregnant women and infants under such title. Amends the Medicaid program to reimburse States, at the Federal Medicaid assistance percentage, for outreach services identifying Medicaid-eligible pregnant women and infants and assisting them in applying for Medicaid coverage. Requires that States submit information to the Secretary, by April 1 of each year, pertaining to the supply of and demand for obstetrical and pediatric services and proposed Medicaid payment rates for such services so that the Secretary may determine whether such rates are sufficient to ensure that obstetrical and pediatric services will be at least as available to Medicaid beneficiaries as they are to the general population. Requires States to immediately revise rates determined to be insufficient. Increases, by 25 percent, the Federal share of Medicaid costs attributable to State demonstration projects to reduce infant mortality and childhood morbidity by improving the access of Medicaid-eligible pregnant women, infants, and children to obstetricians and pediatricians. Limits FY 1990 expenditures for such projects. Directs States to adjust Medicaid payments to disproportionate share hospitals to take into account exceptionally costly and lengthy inpatient hospital services for children. Requires States to: (1) coordinate Medicaid services with the special supplemental food program for women, infants, and children (WIC) under the Child Nutrition Act of 1966; and (2) notify Medicaid-eligible pregnant, breastfeeding, or postpartum women and children under age five of WIC program benefits. Directs the Secretary to develop, for use by January 1, 1990, a national toll-free phone number providing basic health information and health care referrals to pregnant women, new mothers, and other interested persons. Subtitle D: Perinatal Services in Public Housing - Public Housing One-Stop Perinatal Services Act of 1989 - Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to carry out a program to demonstrate the effectiveness of grants to public housing agencies for providing facilities for one-stop perinatal services programs for pregnant women who reside in public housing. Sets forth preferences in selecting the agencies to receive grants. Limits the aggregate amount provided under these provisions for any public housing project to a specified sum. Requires services and facilities provided or assisted with grants under these provisions to comply with all applicable State and local laws, regulations, and ordinances, and all requirements established by the Secretary of Health and Human Services for such services and facilities. Authorizes appropriations. Subtitle E: Domestic Violence Judiciary Training Grants - State Justice Institute Amendments Act - Amends the State Justice Institute Act of 1984 to authorize the use of Institute funds to conduct up to five projects to: (1) carry out research regarding State judicial decisions relating to child custody litigation involving domestic violence; (2) develop training curricula to assist State courts to develop an understanding of, and appropriate responses to, child custody litigation involving domestic violence; and (3) disseminate the results of such research and the curricula to State courts. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 and 1990. Subtitle F: Immigration Reform for Domestic Violence Victims - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to permit certain battered alien spouses to apply for permanent residence without filing a joint petition (and interview) with the citizen spouse. Requires such an alien spouse to demonstrate: (1) that the marriage was entered into with good faith; and (2) evidence of physical abuse or extreme mental cruelty. Subtitle G: Long-Term Care Workers Demonstration Projects - Amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to require the Commissioner on Aging to give special consideration to funding demonstration projects providing older individuals with the opportunity to serve as volunteers furnishing long-term care services to nursing home residents. Subtitle H: Sense of Congress on Caregivers - Declares that it is the sense of the Congress that: (1) recognition and further attention should be given to the professional and personal needs of long-term care aides; (2) expanded access to health and pension benefits should be provided to such aides; (3) policy makers should recognize that problems of female household heads and minority workers affect most nursing care aides; (4) more data is needed on home health and nursing home aides; (5) expanded recruitment of specified groups should be considered to abate the long-term care aide shortage; and (6) changes should be made in nursing aide positions to ensure integration into management structures and to enhance attraction to careers in long-term care.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1989
VISTA Expansion Act of 1989 - Amends the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 to authorize appropriations in increasing amounts for FY 1990 through 1993 for the Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) program.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1989
Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to require the Federal Communications Commission to ensure that interstate and intrastate telecommunications relay services are available to hearing-impaired and speech-impaired individuals in the United States. Requires every common carrier to provide such telecommunications relay services individually or through designees or in concert with other carriers within two years after enactment of this Act. Directs the Commission to adopt regulations to implement this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1989
Amends the Education of the Handicapped Act to provide that: (1) a State shall not be immune under the Eleventh Amendment of the Constitution of the United States from suit in Federal court for a violation of such Act; and (2) the same remedies are available for such a violation in a suit against a State as are available against any other public or private entity.
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1989
National and Community Service Act of 1989- Title I: School Based Community Service - Part A: School Based Community Service - Serve America, the Service to America Act of 1989 - Authorizes the Secretary of Education (the Secretary) to make grants to States or local applicants to create or expand service opportunities for students and out-of-school youth and for community members, particularly senior citizens, to volunteer in schools. Limits the term of such grants to three years. Authorizes the Secretary to fund: (1) one or more national or regional clearinghouses on service; (2) national model youth service programs; and (3) development of innovative curriculum materials for use in student community service programs and school volunteer and partnership programs. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1991 through 1995. Part B: Higher Education - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to revise and rename a certain program Innovative Projects for Community Service. Provides that grants for innovative projects are to encourage student participation in community service activities before, during, or after the completion of the student's higher education. Authorizes the Secretary to appoint a limited number of technical employees to administer Postsecondary Improvement Programs. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1991 through 1995 for grants for innovative projects for community service. Part C: Work Study Programs - Amends HEA provisions relating to grants for State student incentives to direct the Secretary to make an additional reservation and allotment of funds for campus-based community work learning study jobs whenever appropriations exceed a specified amount. Amends HEA provisions for Work Study Programs to: (1) decrease the maximum Federal share of compensation of students employed in the work study program from 70 percent to 60 percent for academic year 1992-1993; and (2) increase the maximum Federal share of compensation of students employed in the work study for community service-learning programs from 90 percent to 100 percent. Part D: Publication - Amends HEA provisions for the direct (Perkins) and guaranteed (Stafford) student loan programs to require publicizing of the current loan repayment deferral program for full-time volunteers with the Peace Corps, VISTA, ad tax-exempt organizations. Requires informing students of this deferral program option in their exit counseling. Requires the Secretary of Education to: (1) provide students with specified information on the deferral program; and (2) gather data on loan deferrals and cancellations for such volunteers. Part E: Direct Loans to Students in Institutions of Higher Education - Amends HEA provisions for the direct (Perkins) student loan program to provide for partial loan cancellation for full-time volunteer service with a tax-exempt organization. (Current law provides for such partial cancellation for service in the Peace Corps or VISTA.) Part F: Loan Forgiveness - Amends HEA provisions for the guaranteed (Stafford) student loan program to provide for partial loan cancellation for service in the Peace Corps or VISTA or for comparable full-time service as a volunteer with a tax-exempt organization. Title II: Youth Service Corps - American Conservation and Youth Service Corps Act of 1989 - Authorizes the National Service Board (the Board, established under title IV of this Act) to provide grants to State and local applicants to create or expand full-time or summer youth service corps programs. Sets forth provisions for grant duration and renewal, allocation of funds, and State and lcoal applications. Sets forth authorized project for conservation corps programs and for human services corps programs. Sets forth ineligible service categories. Encourages use of program services by related programs administered under the authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Directs the Board to: (1) fund only programs that involve projects on public lands or Indian lands or provide a public benefit; and (2) consult with the Department of the Interior in reviewing applications proposing programs or projects on public lands or Indian lands. Requires program agencies to provide to participants: (1) in-service training and education; and (2) post-service education and training assistance. Limits enrollment in programs under this title to individuals who at the time of enrollment are: (1) 16 through 25 years of age (15 through 21 for summer programs); and (2) U.S. citizens or nationals or lawful permanent resident aliens. Requires program agencies to provide post-service education and training benefits in specified amounts for each participant. Excludes such amounts from gross income for specified purposes of the Internal Revenue Code. Authorizes the program agency to provide certain services. Requires the program agency to provide necessary job guidance and placement information and assistance to participants, in coordination with other appropriate entities. Requires that each participant in a full-time youth service corps program receive a living allowance and health insurance. Authorizes the Board to develop regulations and standards for joint projects coordinating activities under this title with activities under employment and training programs administered by the Department of Labor (including the Job Training Partnership Act programs). Makes participants, crew leaders, and volunteers responsible to, and the responsibility of, the program agency administering the project. Provides that participants and crew leaders shall not be considered Federal employees, except for purposes of work-related injuries, tort claims procedure, and allowances for quarters. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1991 through 1995 to carry out this title. Title III: National Service Demonstration Program - National and Community Service Demonstration Act - Directs the National Service Board, not later than one year from the date of enactment of this title, to make grants to States to create full-time and part-time national service demonstration programs. Limits authorization to exercise an alternative voucher option to no more than 25 percent of the States. Requires that at least 25 percent of funded programs include full-time, part-time, and special senior service participants. Limits the number of States authorized to operate full-time or part-time programs in specified fiscal years. Requires program participants to perform national service to meet unmet educational, human, environmental, and public safety needs, especially those relating to poverty. Sets forth various authorized types of such national service. Requires part-time volunteers to agree to serve for: (1) at least three years but not more than six years, at the individual's discretion; and (2) two weekends a month and two weeks during the year, or an average of nine hours per week. Requires full-time volunteers to agree to serve for: (1) at least one year but not more than two years, at the individual's discretion; and (2) at least 40 hours per week. Requires special senior service participants to serve either part-time or full-time as allowed by the Board. Authorizes the Board to provide a participant with a portion of specified financial assistance if the State releases the participant from completion of service for compelling personal circumstances. Allows individuals to serve part-time if they are: (1) age 17 or over; and (2) U.S. citizens or lawful permanent U.S. residents. Requires States, in selecting part-time participants, to give priority to applicants who are currently employed. Allows individuals to serve full-time if they: (1) are age 17 or over; (2) have received a high school diploma or equivalent, or agree to work toward it while participating; and (3) are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent U.S. residents. Allows individuals to serve as special senior service members if they: (1) are age 60 or over; and (2) meet eligibility criteria established by the Board. Directs the Board to provide to each participant annually a nontransferable voucher equal to: (1) $3,000 for each year of part-time service; and (2) $8,500 for each year of full-time service. Makes special senior service participants ineligible for such vouchers. Limits use of such vouchers to payment of: (1) a student loan; (2) downpayment or closing costs for a first home; or (3) tuition at an institution of higher education on a full-time basis, or expenses of full-time participation in an approved apprenticeship program. Allows some States to apply to the Board for authorization to offer an alternative option limiting voucher use to either those education or those housing purposes. Excludes such vouchers from gross income for specified Internal Revenue Code purposes. Requires that each full-time participant receive a living allowance and health insurance. Requires that each full-time special senior service participant receive an equivalent living allowance and such other assistance as the Board considers necessary and appropriate. Requires that each participant receive three weeks of specified training conducted by the Board in cooperation with the State. Authorizes States to provide additional training. Requires that each participant receive additional training from the sponsoring organization in relevant skills. Sets forth prohibited and allowable uses of Federal funds. Requires each State receiving funds under this title to provide to each full-time participant in-service educational services and materials to enable such participant to obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Sets forth provisions relating to the treatment of such vouchers or living allowances for purposes of certain student aid determinations under the Higher Education Act of 1965. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1991 through 1995 to carry out this title. Title IV: Corporation for National Service - Establishes the Corporation for National Service (the Corporation), as a nonprofit corporation that shall not be considered an agency or establishment of the U.S. Government. Declares that the Corporation shall be directed by a National Service Board consisting of members appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Directs the Corporation, pursuant to title III of this Act, to: (1) issue housing and education vouchers; and (2) establish living allowances, taking account of variations in the cost of living. Requires each State receiving funds under specified provisions of this Act to report annually to the Board on the status of national and community youth service programs in that State and on compliance with specified nonduplication and nondisplacement requirements. Authorizes States to require local grantees to supply necessary information for such reports. Requires the Board to report annually to specified congressional committees. Requires each State applying for funds under titles IA, II, or III of this Act to form a State Advisory Board for National and Community Service, with members appointed by the Governor. Sets forth State board duties, including coordinating service programs with related programs, disseminating information, recruiting participants, and developing materials and activities. Directs the National Board to provide for continuing evaluation of programs assisted under titles II and III of this Act. Sets a deadline for the evaluation of title III programs' effectiveness in reaching specified objectives. Directs the Board to: (1) administer programs under titles II and III; (2) provide training and technical assistance; (3) provide one or more service information clearinghouses; (4) consult with appropriate Federal agencies; and (5) arrange for program evaluation. Authorizes the President to make Presidential Awards for service to: (1) individuals demonstrating outstanding community service; and (2) outstanding service programs. Authorizes one individual award and one program award in each congressional district, and one statewide program award in each State. Provides for dissemination of information on such individuals and programs. Directs the President to design a comprehensive Federal service strategy including specified elements. Title V: Expansion of Volunteers in Service to America - VISTA Expansion Act of 1989 - Amends the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 to authorize appropriations increasing amounts for FY 1990 through 1993 for the Volunteers in Service to American (VISTA) program. Title VI: National Older Americans Volunteer Programs - National Older American Volunteer Programs Expansion Act of 1989 - Amends the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 to require the Director of the ACTION Agency to establish, within each National Older American Volunteer Program, grants to support activities that address national problems on a local level. Sets forth award criteria and grant uses. Gives grant priority for activities assisting: (1) those with chronic debilitating illnesses such as AIDS; (2) drug and alcohol abuse prevention and treatment; (3) teenage parents; (4) mentoring of youth needing guidance; (5) adult and school-based literacy; (6) respite care; (7) before and after-school programs serving children of working parents; (8) boarder babies; (9) child care, especially of children with special needs; and (10) developmentally disabled adult individuals (and, when appropriate, involvement of such individuals as volunteers). Limits funding of such grants to those years when program funding is increased by a specified amount. Authorizes appropriations in increasing amounts for FY 1990 through 1993 for: (1) the Retired Senior Volunteer Program; (2) the Foster Grandparent Program; and (3) the Senior Companion Program.
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1989
Domestic Volunteer Service Act Amendments of 1989 - Title I: National Volunteer Antipoverty Programs - Amends the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 (the Act) to increase the amounts to be used for publicity, recruitment, and assignment under the Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) program. Requires the Director of the ACTION Agency (the Director) to appoint a national Administrator of Recruitment and Placement (the Administrator) for VISTA, and to hire appropriate support staff. Revises VISTA publicity, recruitment, application, and assignment procedures. Requires the Administrator to undertake specified recruitment, publicity, and information activities, and to coordinate them with those of the Peace Corps. Includes among such activities publicizing student loan deferment and forgiveness opportunities available to volunteers. Requires attempts to involve former volunteers in information dissemination activities. Requires the Administrator to provide VISTA volunteers assignments which, to the maximum extent practicable, are consistent with their abilities, experiences, and preferences, and with the needs and preferences of the projects or programs. Requires the Director, whenever feasible and appropriate, to assign low-income community volunteers to serve in their home communities in teams with nationally recruited specialist volunteers. Requires the Director to: (1) try to assign volunteers to serve in their homes or nearby communities; and (2) make national efforts to attract other individuals to serve in VISTA. Requires the Director to consider: (1) community-identified needs which cannot be met in the local area; and (2) individual volunteer desires with regard to geographic placement. Allows a sponsoring organization to recruit VISTA volunteers. Directs the Administrator to give such locally-recruited volunteers priority for placements in the sponsoring organization that recruited them. Requires the Director to ensure that, of all VISTA volunteers: (1) at least 20 percent are age 55 or older; and (2) by FY 1991, at least 20 percent are age 18 through 27. Raises the maximum monthly stipend for VISTA volunteers from $75 to $100. Requires the Director to: (1) set a subsistence allowance for VISTA volunteers so that the the average allowance is no less than 105 percent of the poverty line (reflecting higher costs-of-living in certain areas); and (2) report to appropriate congressional committees on methods for setting such allowances. Prohibits termination of VISTA assistance to any project or organization solely on the basis of the duration of assistance previously received. Requires case-by-case consideration of renewal applications, taking into account extenuating circumstances preventing attainment of original goals. Requires that new applications from organizations previously receiving assistance be considered on an equal basis with those that have not received assistance, if the proposed project is clearly distinct from the previously assisted activities. Prohibits taking duration of assistance into account in considering applications from intermediary organizations. Title II: Service-Learning Programs - Renames the Service-Learning Programs under the Act as the Student Community Service Programs. Title III: Special Volunteer Programs - Limits the amount of any grant or contract under the Special Volunteer Programs. Renames certain Special Initiatives as Drug Abuse Education and Prevention Services and Activities. Requires the Director to give priority, in awarding grants and contracts for such activities, to projects that serve communities, including those in rural areas, which have not previously received Special Volunteer Programs assistance for drug abuse education and prevention. Requires the Director to provide for evaluation of activities and projects conducted with assistance under such provisions. Requires applications for such grants in excess of a specified amount to include data on the use of such funds. Title IV: Administration and Coordination - Requires the Director to submit to the Congress within 60 days after the start of each fiscal year a report which includes descriptions of: (1) the annual VISTA recruitment plan; (2) VISTA activities and number of applicants, applicants approved, applicants assigned, and volunteers assigned outside of their home communities; (3) efforts made to involve former volunteers in recruitment and public awareness; and (4) number and location of ACTION Agency employees assigned to VISTA recruitment and public awareness duties. Requires the Director to evaluate the VISTA Literacy Corps as a separate program at least once every three years. Title V: Older American Volunteer Program - Amends title II (Older American Volunteer Programs) of the Act with respect to the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, the Foster Grandparent Program, and the Senior Companion Program. Requires the Director to establish, within each National Older American Volunteer Program, grants to support activities that address national problems on a local level. Sets forth award criteria and grant uses. Gives grant priority to activities assisting: (1) those with chronic debilitating illnesses such as AIDS; (2) drug and alcohol abuse prevention and treatment; (3) teenage parents; (4) mentoring of youth needing guidance; (5) adult and school-based literacy; (6) respite care; (7) before and after-school programs serving children of working parents; (8) boarder babies; (9) child care, especially of children with special needs; and (10) developmentally disabled adult individuals (and, when appropriate, involvement of such individuals as volunteers). Limits funding of such grants to those years when program funding is increased by a specified amount. Increases the amount of stipends or allowances under the Foster Grandparent Program. Revises provisions relating to individuals who are not low-income persons serving as volunteers without stipends under such program. Prohibits the Director from coercing any volunteer applicant or grant or contract recipient to engage in specified conduct with respect to such unpaid volunteer positions. Requires the Director to encourage and facilitate: (1) private organizational efforts to promote National Older American Volunteer Programs; and (2) involvement of older persons as volunteers in such programs. Requires the Director to expend specified funds for special efforts to publicize such programs, including notifying grant and contract recipients of all available information. Title VI: General Provisions - Includes among authorized VISTA volunteer assignments work in addressing significant health care problems, including chronic and life-threatening illnesses and health care for homeless individuals, especially homeless children, through prevention, treatment, and community-based care activities. Requires the Director to ensure that records are maintained to indicate the degree of compliance with a requirement that certain funds for the VISTA Literacy Corps supplement and not supplant other specified funds to address the problem of illiteracy. Authorizes the Director to provide: (1) technical and financial assistance to nonprofit organizations conducting operations in several areas and States for activities addressing the problem of illiteracy; and (2) technical assistance to employers who have established or wish to establish worksite literacy volunteer programs. Requires the Director to: (1) make appropriate cost-of-living adjustments in Federal financial assistance to meet administrative costs of applicants under National Older American Volunteer Programs; and (2) report to specified congressional committees on such adjustments. Authorizes the Director to approve multiple-year grants or contracts for projects. Amends the Human Services Reauthorization Act of 1986 to revise the Community Services Block Grant Program with respect to partnership agreements addressing the needs of the poor. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services annually to: (1) identify new programs for replication; and (2) evaluate and report to specified congressional committees on programs funded under this Act. Title VII: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1993 for the following National Volunteer Antipoverty Programs: (1) the VISTA volunteer program; (2) the VISTA Literacy Corps; (3) Service-Learning programs; and (4) Special Volunteer programs. Requires necessary amounts to be available for increasing numbers of years of VISTA volunteer service for FY 1990 through 1993. Requires the Director to give a reasonable period of advance notice to the relevant congressional committees upon determination that a reallocation is necessary because of insufficient appropriations to carry out VISTA programs. Requires that such reallocation be made from funds for Special Volunteer programs before reallocation from other parts of title I of the Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1993 for administration of the Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1993 for the following National Older American Volunteer Programs: (1) the Retired Senior Volunteer Program; (2) the Foster Grandparent Program; and (3) the Senior Companion Program. Title VIII: Technical Amendments - Makes technical amendments to the table of contents, headings, and other provisions of the Act. Title IX: Effective Date - Sets forth the effective date of this Act and the amendments it makes.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1989
Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, through the Director of the National Institutes of Health, to provide a single grant, through a competitive process, to construct a facility for the development, production, and distribution of inbred and mutant mice that are used for biomedical research. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1989
Foundation for Biomedical Research Act of 1989 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a nonprofit corporation known as the Foundation for Biomedical Research. Declares that the Foundation shall not for any purpose be an agency of the U.S. Government. Directs the Secretary to incorporate the Foundation under the laws of the State of Maryland. Requires that the Foundation: (1) provide funding for the endowed chairs within the intramural research programs of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Alcohol, Drug Abuse, and Mental Health Administration (ADAMHA); (2) recruit senior biomedical scientists for such positions; (3) support the staffing, equipment, and space requirements for the research undertaken by those scientists; (4) support the stipends and research expenses of NIH Scholars appointed under the Public Health Service Act, who shall be appointed for six-year terms; and (5) negotiate a memorandum of understanding with the Director of the NIH and the Administrator of ADAMHA that Foundation scientists and personnel shall observe the ethical and procedural standards regulating research and research findings that are followed at the NIH and ADAMHA. Sets forth the powers of the Foundation. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1989
Biomedical Research Act of 1989 - Title I: Biomedical and Behavioral Research Facilities - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), through the Director of Research Resources (Director), to award grants to public or nonprofit private institutions, under provisions relating to biomedical and behavioral research facilities, to expand, remodel, renovate, or alter existing research facilities or construct new research facilities. Establishes in the Division of Research Resources of the NIH a Technical Review Board on Biomedical and Behavioral Research Facilities to: (1) advise the Director and the Advisory Council (established under existing law) on matters concerning the construction of facilities; and (2) conduct the peer review of applications under this title. Sets forth requirements for application and selection of grants. Limits the amount of any grant to 50 percent of the cost of construction or, in the case of a multipurpose facility, 50 percent of the cost of construction proportionate to the contemplated use. Allows the Director to waive these limitations for institutions of emerging excellence in biomedical or behavioral research. Provides for recapture of payments in certain circumstances for 20 years after completion of construction. Requires the Director to prescribe regulations with respect to the grants. Requires the Director to mandate peer review of applications for grants under these provisions in accordance with existing peer review provisions. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1992. Title II: National Center for Medical Rehabilitation Research - Amends the Public Health Service Act to declare that the purpose of the National Center for Medical Rehabilitation Research (Center) is to conduct biomedical research and research training, the dissemination of information, and other programs with respect to the rehabilitation of individuals with physical disabilities resulting from diseases or disorders of the neurological, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, or other physiologic systems (medical rehabilitation). Requires the NIH Director to develop a comprehensive plan for the conduct and support of medical rehabilitation research. Requires the Director to establish the Medical Rehabilitation Coordinating Committee to make recommendations with regard to the plan. Requires establishment of the Medical Rehabilitation Advisory Council to assist and make recommendations to the NIH Director and the Center Director. Title III: Scientific Personnel Demonstration Program - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a Senior Biomedical Scientific Service. Requires that: (1) members of the Service be appointed by the Secretary without regard to provisions of Federal law relating to Government organization and employees; (2) the Service be limited to 800 individuals; and (3) members of the Service be outstanding in the field of biomedical research, behavioral research, or clinical research evaluation. Declares that provisions of Federal law relating to retention preference, performance appraisal and performance-based actions, classification, General Schedule pay rates, and adverse actions shall not apply to any member of the Service. Requires that members of the Service be assigned by the Secretary to duties directly involving biomedical research, behavioral research, or clinical research evaluation, or to supervision of such activities. Authorizes the Secretary to determine the basic and supplemental pay of Service members. Sets forth limits on supplemental pay. Provides for retirement of individuals who enter the Service directly from a position as a commissioned officer in the Public Health Service Corps. Requires that the Service be administered in such a manner that, in FY 1990, it does not result in additional appropriations for the Department of Health and Human Services. Terminates the Service five years after it attains full membership. Amends provisions of Federal law relating to physicians comparability allowances to include physicians and dentists in the Senior Biomedical Scientific Service in the definition of "Government physician" for purposes of such provisions. Title IV: NIH Director's Discretionary Fund - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to retain a specified percentage of the amount appropriated for extramural grants, up to a specified amount in each fiscal year, in an account for the hiring of staff and the purchasing or renting of equipment and space for research that cannot otherwise be supported adequately because of funding cycle constraints or because the research does not fit clearly into the research assignment of any existing Institute.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1989
Commends Little League Baseball on its 50th anniversary.
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 1989
Emergency Chinese Immigration Relief Act of 1989 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide for the adjustment to temporary or permanent resident status, or change to another nonimmigrant status, of certain nonimmigrant (student, exchange visitor) nationals of the People's Republic of China. (Waives the two-year home country residence requirement for "J" visa exchange visitors.) Authorizes such persons to travel abroad and to work in the United States. Establishes a deferred departure period for such persons through June 5, 1993. Authorizes the Attorney General as of June 5, 1990, to terminate such deferred departure period if the President certifies to the Congress that conditions in China have changed.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1989
Comprehensive Illiteracy Elimination Act of 1989 - Title I: Literacy Coordination - Literacy Coordination, Research, and Dissemination Act of 1989 - Establishes the Cabinet Council for Literacy Coordination. Amends the Department of Education Organization Act to establish in the Department of Education an Office on Literacy, to be administered by a Director. Requires the Director to: (1) coordinate the administration of literacy programs within the Department; and (2) work with the Cabinet Council for Literacy to coordinate the related programs of other Federal agencies. Directs the Secretary of Education (the Secretary), through the Office on Literacy, to make a grant to establish and operate a nonprofit National Center for Literacy, with a Director of the Center. Requires such grant to be awarded on a competitive basis, and to be limited to not more than five years (renewable). Allows the Center to use such grant funds for: (1) basic and applied research; (2) technical assistance; (3) an information clearinghouse; (4) policy analysis and program evaluation; and (5) a model demonstrative program of remedial training and placement. Directs the Secretary to establish an advisory committee to advise the Secretary and the Director of the Center on policy issues and on Center selection and operation of major research and demonstration projects. Requires the Director of the Center to report annually to the Congress and the Cabinet Council. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1991 through 1995 for the Center, limiting the amount which may be used for its model demonstration program. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to pay the Federal share of costs of establishing and operating State literacy resource centers. Limits the amount and duration of such grants. Allows each State to contract on a competitive basis with a volunteer or community-based or other nonprofit organization to operate such a State center. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1991 through 1995 for such purpose. Title II: Workforce Literacy - Workforce Literacy Act of 1989 - Amends the Adult Education Act (AEA) to authorize appropriations for FY 1991 through 1995. Earmarks funds to train professional teachers, volunteers, and administrators, emphasizing minority teacher training and training of teachers to recognize and better serve illiterate individuals with learning disabilities and low-level reading abilities. Provides that, if a majority of the illiterate population assisted under basic program provisions of AEA has been served, the authorization of appropriations for each of the succeeding fiscal years during FY 1991 through 1995 shall be equal to that for the fiscal year in which such determination is made. Provides that adult education programs for which AEA grants have been made to States shall be carried out by public or private nonprofit entities only if the applicable local educational agency has been consulted and has had an opportunity to comment on the application. Requires State educational agencies receiving such basic State grants to assure direct and equitable access to Federal funds to local educational agencies, public or private nonprofit agencies, community-based organizations, and institutions which serve educationally disadvantaged adults. Grants preference to those organizations which will serve adults with a reading ability below the fifth grade level. Raises from 20 percent to 25 percent the limit on the portion of a State's grant allotment earmarked for high school equivalency certificate programs. Requires that at least ten percent of funds received under provisions for business, industry, labor, and education partnerships for workplace literacy be used for research, teacher training (including learning disabled identification and teaching), and technical assistance. Extends the authorization of appropriations for such provisions through FY 1995. Directs the Comptroller General to update, within 18 months, a 1975 study of the adult basic education program. Title III: Families for Literacy - Families for Literacy Act of 1989 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to extend through FY 1995 the authorization of appropriations for Even Start programs operated by local educational agencies. Establishes a Families for Literacy program under which the Secretary may make ten demonstration grants to nonprofit entities (or consortia of businesses, nonprofit entities, and local educational agencies) to pay 80 percent of the cost of establishing intergenerational learning programs (emphasizing literacy skills) for children aged three and under and their parents. Directs the Secretary to give priority to applicants whose programs serve hard-to-serve populations. Sets forth program requirements for staff teams and community advisory councils. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into a contract with the Corporation for Public broadcasting to produce and disseminate a family literacy program to assist parents in improving their knowledge and skills regarding early childhood education, language development, and literacy. Authorizes appropriations for: (1) FY 1991 through 1995 for the Family Literacy Program demonstration grants; and (2) FY 1991 for the family literacy program public broadcasting contract. Title IV: Books for Families - Books for Families Literacy Act of 1989 - Amends ESEA provisions for the inexpensive book distribution program for reading motivation to require the contractor (the Reading Is Fundamental organization), beginning in FY 1990 and thereafter, to: (1) give priority to programs which target rural and urban areas with large concentrations of economically disadvantaged children and students; and (2) report annually to the Department of Education on the number and description of such individuals. Amends the Library Services and Construction Act (LSCA) to extend through FY 1995 the authorization of appropriations for making specified grants under title VI (Library Literacy Programs) of LSCA. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1991 through 1995 to make grants for model library literacy centers and for the inexpensive book distribution program. Authorizes the Secretary, under LSCA, to make grants to State and local public libraries to establish model library literacy centers. Requires the Secretary to establish a peer review panel to assist in establishing criteria for awarding such grants. Authorizes the Secretary, under LSCA, to contract with the Reading Is Fundamental organization to promote the establishment of reading motivation programs which include the distribution of inexpensive books. Requires such contract to provide for: (1) giving priority to programs which target rural and urban areas with large concentrations of economically disadvantaged children and students; (2) increasing access to children's books for parents of newborns through children aged five; and (3) developing motivational materials to reach parents most disconnected from the education community, by making children's books available in specified types of places. Title V: Students for Literacy - Students for Literacy Act of 1986 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to extend through FY 1995 the authorization of appropriations for: (1) the Student Literacy Corps; and (2) College Work-Study (CWS) programs. Exempts literacy training programs and the creation and placement of literacy jobs for students from specified caps on CWS funds. Sets the Federal share of the compensation of students employed in literacy work-study training programs at 100 percent. Title VI: Volunteers for Literacy - Volunteers for Literacy Act of 1989 - Amends the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 to provide that, whenever they do not exceed a specified amount the funds for the VISTA Literacy Corps shall supplement and not supplant specified VISTA services provided in FY 1989 to address the problem of illiteracy. Establishes service-learning literacy programs. Authorizes the Director of the ACTION Agency (the Director) to make grants to and contracts with public and private nonprofit entities to enable students in secondary schools, secondary vocational schools, and postsecondary schools to serve as volunteers in projects addressing illiteracy. Gives priority to projects using peer tutoring and involving partnerships to meet a wide range of needs. Requires the Director to make grants and contracts for a program of full-time volunteer service to be known as University Year for Literacy, which establishes and supports innovative ways to use full-time students enrolled in higher education institutions as volunteers: (1) in addressing the problems facing illiterate and functionally illiterate individuals; and (2) in assisting organizations which combat illiteracy and those problems. Gives priority to individuals pursuing a course of study related to a career in a field addressing the problem of illiteracy. Authorizes the Director to make grants and contracts to provide training and technical assistance to increase the effective use of full-time and part-time student volunteers to combat illiteracy. Authorizes the Director to provide technical and financial assistance to nonprofit organizations conducting operations in several areas or States that are engaged in, or wish to become involved in, activities to solve the problems of illiteracy. Authorizes the Director to provide technical assistance in obtaining, training, and integrating volunteers to employers who have established or wish to establish worksite literacy programs. Establishes a program of literacy challenge grants. Authorizes the Director to award such grants to eligible public agencies and private organizations for a portion of the costs of community or employee literacy programs that include use of volunteers. Establishes a Retired Senior Volunteer Literacy Program (which may be jointly administered with other Retired Senior Volunteer Programs). Authorizes the Director to make grants to establish such program to enhance the role of senior volunteers in addressing the problem of illiteracy. Extends through FY 1995 the authorization of appropriations for the VISTA Literacy Corps. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1991 through 1995 for specified programs established under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 1989
Provides duty-free treatment of scenery and costumes that are imported by the Boston Ballet for a performance of "Swan Lake" by the Kirov Ballet.
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 1989
Police Corps Act - Establishes an Office of the Police Corps within the Justice Department to be headed by a Director. Authorizes the Director of the Office of the Police Corps to agree to repay the educational loans of State Police Corps program participants and reimburse them for educational expenses of up to $40,000 following their completion of: (1) an educational course of study; (2) Federal training; and (3) four years of State or local police force service. Limits participants in such programs to 25,000 people per year. Declares that the Director's obligation to pay a participant's educational expenses shall be void and the Director shall be entitled to recover from the participant the amount of any interest on an educational loan that the Director has paid if the participant fails to complete the educational study, Federal training, and required service unless the failure is the result of death or permanent disability. Entitles a dependent child of a law enforcement officer who is not a program participant and who is killed in the line of duty to the educational assistance authorized in this Act without incurring any service obligation. Sets forth selection criteria of and qualifications for participants for State Police Corps programs. Requires each State participating in the Police Corps to make special efforts to seek and recruit minorities without relaxing admission standards. Requires the Director to establish up to three training centers to provide basic law enforcement training to State Police Corps program participants. Requires participants to attend two eight-week training sessions at such training centers and to meet certain performance standards in order to remain in the Police Corps program. Requires the Director to pay participants a weekly stipend during training. Establishes a nine-member Board of Directors to administer such training centers. Requires the Director to serve as chairman of the Board. Requires a State, in order to participate in the Police Corps program, to submit a plan for implementing such program to the Director for approval. Requires such plan to: (1) include assurances that participants will receive additional State or local training after completing Federal training which shall count toward the four-year service obligation; and (2) provide that program participants shall be assigned to community and preventive patrol in geographic areas with the greatest need for additional law enforcement personnel. Provides for the swearing in of participants as members of the police force to which they are assigned after completing Federal training and meeting the requirements of that police force. Requires the Director to report annually to the President and the Congress. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1989
Library Services and Construction Act Amendments of 1989 - Amends the Library Services and Construction Act (the Act) to revise its programs and extend the authorization of appropriations. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1994 for grants (or activities) relating to: (1) library services; (2) public library and construction technology enhancement; (3) interlibrary cooperation and resource sharing; (4) library services for Indian tribes; (5) foreign language materials acquisition; (6) library literacy programs; and (7) evaluation and assessment. Revises allocations to Indian tribes and to Alaskan native villages, regional corporations, and village corporations. Provides for interlibrary cooperation and resource sharing under long-range State programs. Directs the Secretary of Education (the Secretary) to: (1) coordinate specified programs; and (2) give the head of the State library administrative agency opportunity for comment on applications for foreign language and for library literacy grants before the award, to assure that the purposes of such grants are consistent with the long-range State program. Permits each State library agency, in FY 1990 and every fifth year thereafter, to review its expenditures under the programs from State and local sources and file with the Secretary a statement to establish a current, revised expenditure level to be used for measuring maintenance of effort. Requires library service programs to provide for assistance to libraries: (1) in developing intergenerational library programs matching older volunteers with libraries interested in developing after school literacy and reading skills programs for unsupervised school children; (2) in extending for mobile library services and programs to licensed or certified child-care providers or centers; (3) in establishing model library literacy centers to reduce the number of functionally illiterate individuals and help them reach full employment; and (4) in making effective use of technology to improve services. Authorizes a State, in carrying out its library services program, to make subgrants to library systems or networks which include libraries other than public libraries, if the purpose of the subgrant is to improve services for public library patrons. Allows States to ratably reduce payments to major urban resource libraries only under specified conditions. Revises services for institutionalized individuals under certain maintenance of effort requirements to make them services to handicapped individuals generally. Requires State library services programs to provide assistance to public libraries for technology enhancement to improve services. Provides for grants to develop the technological capacity of libraries for interlibrary cooperation and resource sharing. Requires that public library construction projects follow policies and procedures that will promote the preservation of library and information resources in such facilities. Requires that a statewide resource sharing plan be directed toward attaining compliance with specified provisions. Authorizes the State long-range interlibrary cooperation and resource sharing program to: (1) include a statewide preservation cooperation plan; and (2) identify the preservation objectives to be achieved during the period covered by the long-range plans. Authorizes: (1) the use of funds to carry out such preservation cooperation plan; and (2) part or all of such preservation program to be contracted to other agencies or institutions. Raises the maximum limit on the amount of a single Library Literacy Program grant from $25,000 to $35,000. Authorizes the Secretary, directly or by grants or contracts, to evaluate and assess programs under the Act. Retitles title I of the Act as Public Library Services.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1989
Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to prohibit any person from acquiring a controlling interest in an air carrier unless the Secretary of Transportation has determined that the acquisition will not adversely and materially affect such air carrier's ability to conduct air transportation in a manner consistent with the highest degree of safety.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1989
Fair Employment Reinstatement Act - Amends the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to declare that an unlawful employment practice is established when a complaining party demonstrates that an employment practice, or a group of employment practices, results in a disparate impact on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, and the respondent fails to demonstrate that such practice or practices are required by business necessity. Provides that: (1) if the complaining party shows that a group of practices results in disparate impact, the party need not show which practice or practices result in the disparate impact; and (2) if the respondent demonstrates that a specific practice does not contribute to the disparate impact, the respondent need not show that such practice is required by business necessity. Defines "required by business necessity" to mean essential to effective job performance.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1989
Medical Residents' Student Loan Amendments Act of 1989 - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to revise provisions relating to repayment of student loans by medical residents. Provides that no borrower shall be eligible to be classified as a student for a deferment of student loan repayments while serving in a medical internship or residency program. Requires lenders to grant borrowers, upon written request, forbearance from student loan repayments, renewable at 12-month intervals, for the time remaining in the borrower's medical or dental internship, residency, or fellowship program. Prohibits lenders from: (1) charging an administrative or other fee in connection with granting such a forbearance; or (2) reporting adverse information regarding a borrower solely because of granting such a forbearance. Directs the Advisory Committee on Student Financial Assistance to conduct, and complete within one year, a study examining: (1) indebtedness among graduate and professional students; and (2) the extent to which loan burden affects enrollment and persistence decisions of low-income, disadvantaged, and minority graduate students.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1989
Urges the Government of Iran to extend to the Bahai community the rights guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other human rights accords. Calls upon the President to: (1) emphasize the need for improvements in Iran's treatment of the Bahais and other religious minorities as an important factor in the development of U.S.-Iranian relations; (2) encourage other governments to appeal to Iran concerning the situation of the Bahais; (3) cooperate with other governments and international organizations in appealing for the protection of the religious rights of the Bahais; and (4) provide, and urge others to provide, refugee and humanitarian assistance for the those Bahais fleeing their homelands because of religious repression.
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1989
Expresses the sense of the Congress that science, mathematics, and technology education should be a national priority (with emphasis on an educated citizenry, curriculum planning, teacher preparation, and service to traditionally underserved students, including those from inner cities and remote areas).
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1989
Missile Control Act of 1989 - Amends the Arms Export Control Act to set forth measures the United States shall take to improve the control and reduce the proliferation of missiles and missile equipment and technology. Requires the Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense to deny government contracts to any domestic or foreign firms or state entity that has transferred missile equipment and technology in violation of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) guidelines. Directs the Secretary of State to report to the Congress annually on transfers of missile equipment and technology MTCR nonadherents. Amends the Export Administration Act of 1979 to require the Secretary of Commerce to direct the Office of Export Licensing to refer all license applications for the export of items on the MTCR annex, excluding those directed to MTCR adherents and NATO programs, to the Secretary of State and, if requested, to the Secretary of Defense. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish a procedure that would permit the Secretaries of State and Defense to have access to computer lists of license applications for missile equipment and technology. Provides for licensing of missile equipment and technology exports. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to report to the Congress annually on requests for and the granting of missile equipment and technology export licenses.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1989
Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act - Makes it unlawful for any licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer to sell, deliver, or transfer a handgun to an unlicensed individual unless: (1) the transferor has notified, by registered or certified mail, the chief law enforcement officer for the individual's place of residence about the proposed transfer and either has received a response indicating that such transfer is not prohibited by law or has not received a response indicating otherwise within seven days; (2) the individual has presented to the transferor a statement from the officer indicating that the individual requires a handgun because of a threat to him or his family; or (3) the individual has a State handgun permit that is less than a year old which satisfies the same requirements. Requires any transferor who subsequently receives a report from such officer that receipt or possession of the handgun by the individual violates the law to: (1) furnish information about the transfer and the individual to the chief law enforcement officer of the transferor's place of business and the individual's place of residence; and (2) keep confidential any information received which is not otherwise available to the public, with exceptions. Requires a transferor to retain a copy of the individual's sworn statement for at least a year. Requires the law enforcement officer to destroy any copy of the individual's sworn statement and any record containing information derived from such statement within 30 days, unless such officer determines that the transaction would violate Federal, State, or local law. Provides that this Act shall not apply in any State that: (1) requires a seven-day waiting period for the transfer of a handgun to an unlicensed individual; (2) requires a State law enforcement officer to verify an unlicensed individual's eligibility to receive a handgun; or (3) establishes and operates, or participates in, a qualified verification system which meets specified requirements. Sets forth penalties for violations of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1989
Public Housing Gateway Act of 1989 - Authorizes the Secretary of Labor (the Secretary) to make gateway program grants to public housing agencies to use public housing in the provision of employment training and services to economically disadvantaged public housing residents who are not more than 25 years of age. Requires that such grants be made with the advice and participation of the Gateway Task Force established under this Act. Requires public housing agencies to make the following training and services available to eligible individuals through the gateway program they must establish when they receive such a grant: (1) information on training, education, or services offered by the agency; (2) literacy training and bilingual training; (3) remedial education and training in basic skills (including communication skills, arithmetic, and problem-solving); (4) development of work habits and other personal management skills; and (5) free child care to facilitate participation in training and other services. Specifies additional training and services which may be offered to eligible individuals who are qualified through literacy training, training in basic and employment skills, and support services. Requires participants in gateway program training and services to be: (1) residents of public housing; (2) not more than 25 years of age; (3) economically disadvantaged; and (4) educationally disadvantaged. Limits mandatory child care services to: (1) participants in gateway program training or services during participation; (2) unemployed former participants who have successfully completed the program, for a specified period; and (3) employed former participants who have successfully completed the program, for a specified period. Permits support services to continue for up to 18 months to any individual after termination of participation in program training or services only if the individual has completed the training or services. Requires public housing agencies receiving such grants to attempt to employ in the gateway programs qualified residents of the public housing project involved. Prohibits consideration of earnings of and benefits to any individual resulting from participation in gateway training and services as income for public assistance or rent limitation purposes during specified periods of participation or post-participation employment. Provides that the use of the facilities of a recipient public housing agency in the provision of gateway training or services shall have no effect on the amount of operating assistance to such agency under the United States Housing Act. Establishes an interagency Gateway Task Force (the Task Force) to advise and assist the Secretary in carrying out this Act. Directs the Secretary to provide the Task Force with necessary information and facilities. Directs the Secretaries of Labor, Housing and Urban Development, Education, and Health and Human Services to each appoint members of the Task Force. Terminates the Task Force five years after its first regularly called meeting. Directs the Secretary to review at least annually compliance with this Act by public housing agencies receiving gateway program grants. Directs the Task Force to review gateway programs at least annually to determine their merits in enhancing the employability of public housing residents, and report its recommendations to the Secretary. Sets forth procedures for withholding grant payments in cases of agency noncompliance. Directs the Secretary to transmit to the President and the Congress: (1) annual reports on Task Force activities and recommendations; and (2) a final report, by the date of Task Force termination, on Task Force findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1989
Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act with respect to the application of employer sanctions to longshore work.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1989
Tiananmen Square Park Authorization Act - Designates the park located in front of the Chinese Embassy in the District of Columbia as Tiananmen Square Park.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1989
Refugee Resettlement Extension Act of 1989 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to extend the authorization of appropriations for refugee assistance through FY 1992. Requires: (1) the President to present his annual refugee admissions recommendations to the Congress by June 1; and (2) such recommendations to include any changes in budget authority due to refugee admissions changes. Provides for: (1) consolidation of related State and administrative procedures; and (2) Federal, State, and local consultation. Requires the Coordinator for Refugee Affairs to submit an annual report to the appropriate congressional committees respecting such coordinated refugee resettlement efforts. Requires the Secretary of State to report to the appropriate congressional committees respecting resettlement of Vietnamese Amerasians and certain Vietnamese refugees. Requires the Director of the Office of Refugee Resettlement to report to the appropriate congressional committees respecting the potential viability of a refugee cash and medical assistance program. Provides for the: (1) implementation of private sector funding for specified refugees; and (2) establishment of related admissions and sponsorship guidelines.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1989
Designates the period of September 16 through October 9, 1989, as Coastweeks '89, recognizing the importance of coastal zones. Designates September 16, 1989, as National Estuaries Day and September 23, 1989, as National Beach Cleanup Day.
United States · United States Congress · 21 June 1989
Live Performing Arts Labor Relations Amendments - Amends the National Labor Relations Act to exclude specified types of employers and performers in the live performing arts from coverage under unfair labor practice provisions: (1) prohibiting specified contracts or agreements between employers and labor organizations; and (2) prohibiting specified actions of labor organizations to force or require cessation of dealings with others, joining of labor or employer organizations, or recognition of or negotiation with labor organizations not certified as representative. Permits such employers to: (1) agree with a labor organization to make membership in it a condition of performing arts employment; and (2) make agreements with a labor organization covering performing artists even if its majority status has not yet been established. Defines "employer" to include purchasers of live musical performance services. Defines "employee" to include independent contractors engaged to perform live musical services.
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1989
Designates April 22, 1990, as Earth Day for public activities that promote global environmental preservation.
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 1989
Visual Artists Rights Act of 1989 - Amends the copyright law to define a "work of visual art." Grants the author of a work of visual art the right to claim authorship of such work when publicly displayed, independent of other exclusive rights, and to disclaim such authorship because of substantial distortion or alteration that harms his or her reputation. Grants such an author the right to prevent any destruction, distortion, mutilation, or other modification of that work which would harm his or her reputation or honor. Grants the author who is not a copyright owner such rights only during his or her lifetime. Extends such rights 50 years beyond the author's death with respect to visual art works created as of the effective date of this Act. Waives artists' rights when a work cannot be removed from a building without distortion, mutilation, or alteration, unless such rights are expressly reserved by an instrument in writing. Directs the Register of Copyrights to establish a recordation system for authors of visual art works that have been incorporated into a building. Declares that this Act preempts equivalent rights under State law. Includes within the scope of copyright infringement violations the rights conferred by this Act. Declares that: (1) criminal infringement penalties do not apply to such violations; and (2) registration is not a prerequisite to copyright infringement actions for violations of this Act. Stipulates when a claim accrues for purposes of an action for copyright infringement by an author of a work of visual art. Directs the Register of Copyrights to report to the Congress the results of a feasibility study regarding new requirements enabling authors of works of visual art to participate in the commercial exploitation of their work after its first sale. Requires submission of such report within 18 months after enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 1989
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should: (1) take immediate steps to achieve a consensus among South Africa's major trading partners on effective economic, political, and diplomatic measures to end apartheid; (2) implement to the fullest extent all the provisions of the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act of 1986, and the recommendations of the Secretary of State's Advisory Committee on South Africa; (3) take steps to bring about concerted multilateral pressure to dismantle apartheid; (4) instruct the permanent Representative of the United States to the United Nations to offer a resolution in the Security Council that would impose selective mandatory sanctions against South Africa similar to those embodied in the Act for 12 months, and to vote for any resolution offered which would impose such sanctions; (5) strengthen the impact of the Act through diplomatic and political pressure; (6) direct specified executive agencies to monitor trade relations between South Africa and U.S. allies; and (7) take action against those countries benefiting from or taking advantage of U.S. sanctions against South Africa.
United States · United States Congress · 15 June 1989
Designates June 16, 1989, as Soweto Remembrance Day. Encourages Americans to participate in local activities designed to commemorate the victims of Soweto and to show solidarity with those who are fighting to end apartheid.
United States · United States Congress · 15 June 1989
Declares that the Congress: (1) is prepared to support a presidential waiver of the Jackson-Vanik amendment of the Trade Act of 1974 (relating to most favored nation treatment) with respect to the Soviet Union at such time as the President has received appropriate assurances that the Soviet Government is firmly on course toward sustained high levels of emigration and the removal of unreasonable impediments to persons wishing to emigrate; and (2) will continue to monitor Soviet efforts to institutionalize its liberalized emigration policy.
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 1989
Fair Labor Standards Amendments of 1989 - Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (the Act) to increase the minimum wage per hour from $3.35 in 1989 to: (1) $3.85 in FY 1990; (2) $4.25 in FY 1991; and (3) $4.55 in FY 1992 and thereafter. Provides for annual adjustments of the minimum wage. Directs the Minimum Wage Review Board (established by this Act), by January 1, 1992, to review current economic data on wages, prices, and other economic indicators and determine how the minimum wage rate should be adjusted. Directs the Board, by October 1, 1992, to transmit to the Congress a recommendation to adjust the rate, including an estimate of the economic effects of doing so. Directs the Board to conduct such reviews and transmit such recommendations annually. Establishes the Minimum Wage Review Board, composed of five members appointed by certain congressional officers. Increases the small business exemption by revising the definition of an enterprise engaged in commerce for purposes of coverage under the Act ("the enterprise test"). Exempts from such coverage those businesses whose annual gross volume of sales or business is less than $500,000 (currently $362,500), effective October 1, 1989. Requires employers who were covered in 1988, but who are exempt under the new threshold, to continue to pay the $3.35 per hour minimum wage (and continue to be covered by overtime and child labor provisions of the Act). Removes the Virgin Islands from coverage by provisions for special industry committee minimum wage determinations and orders, including those involving employment under special certificates for learners, apprentices, and messengers and for students. Adds references to American Samoa under such provisions (American Samoa is currently covered by such provisions through references under other special minimum wage provisions). Removes references to Puerto Rico under such provisions, but continues and revises the special minimum wage treatment of Puerto Rico as follows: (1) in addition to designated types of employees (Federal, hotel, motel, restaurant, and food service) entitled to receive the full Federal minimum wage, employees in industries averaging $4.65 or more per hour would be so entitled; (2) employees in industries averaging from $4.00 to $4.64 per hour would receive the full rate by October 1, 1993, after a four-year period of gradual increases; (3) employees in industries averaging less than $4.00 per hour would receive the full rate by October 1, 1994, after a five-year period of gradual increases; and (4) employees of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or a municipality or other governmental entity of the Commonwealth, in categories averaging less than $4.00 per hour and covered by 1985 amendments to the Act, would receive the full rate by October 1, 1995, after a six-year period of gradual increases. Increases the tip credit under the Act from 40 percent to 45 percent for FY 1990 and to 50 percent for FY 1991 and thereafter. (The tip credit deems the amount paid to a tipped employee, for minimum wage purposes, to be increased by an amount determined by the employer, but not by an amount in excess of the specified percentage of the applicable minimum wage rate.) Allows employers to pay a training wage at less than the minimum wage rate. Allows such training wage to be paid only: (1) until the employee has been employed a cumulative total of 60 days by all employers who are required to withhold payroll taxes for such employee; and (2) while such eligible employee is engaged in on-the-job training which is at least 30 days in duration. Prohibits payment of such training wage to migrant or seasonal agricultural workers or nonimmigrant aliens. Makes the individual responsible for providing proof of previous periods of employment with other employers. Allows such training wage to be paid only during the period from October 1, 1989, to September 30, 1992. Sets such training wage at: (1) not less than $3.35 per hour during the year beginning October 1, 1989; and (2) beginning October 1, 1990, not less than $3.35 per hour or 85 percent of the minimum wage, whichever is greater. Prohibits layoffs or termination of employment or reduction of the number of regular employees because of the training wage. Prohibits employee hours at the training wage during any month from exceeding one-fourth of all employee hours in the establishment. Sets forth notice requirements and enforcement provisions. Directs the Secretary of Labor (the Secretary) to report to the Congress by July 1, 1992, on the effectiveness of the training wage. Exempts from overtime provisions of the Act up to ten hours in any workweek if during such time the employee is receiving certain remedial education. Expresses the sense of the Senate that the rights and protections of the Act should apply to employees of the Senate or any office thereof. Directs the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, within 180 days after the first minimum wage increase under this Act, to report a resolution which applies such rights and protection to Senate employees and establishes the scope of such coverage and remedies, enforcement, and other necessary procedures. Applies the rights and protections under the Act to any employee in an employment position in, and any employing authority of, the House of Representatives, or under the Architect of the Capitol, using remedies and procedures under the Fair Employment Practices Resolution. Adds civil penalties for repeated or willful violations of specified provisions of the Act. Directs the Secretary, within 90 days, to promulgate regulations that interpret a specified professional exemption from overtime provisions under the Act to include computer systems analysts, software engineers, and other similarly skilled professional workers, even if such employees are compensated on an hourly basis, as long as they are compensated at an hourly rate at least six and one-half times greater than the minimum. Directs the Minimum Wage Review Board to contract with the Secretary to provide for the Bureau of Labor Statistics to conduct: (1) a study of the impact of increasing the Federal minimum wage on rural areas and high unemployment areas; and (2) specified surveys and research on the characteristics of minimum wage employment and the impact of modification of the scope of coverage and minimum wage levels under the Act. Directs the Board to submit to specified congressional committees the results of such studies and surveys, which are to be completed by specified deadlines.
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 1989
Democracy in Eastern Europe Act of 1989 - Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to remove Poland from the list of countries ineligible for designation as beneficiary developing countries. Requires the Overseas Private Investment Corporation to support projects in Poland and Hungary to enhance the nongovernmental sector and reduce state involvement in the economy. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 and 1991 to implement the 1987 United States-Polish science and technology agreement. Authorizes additional appropriations for FY 1990 and 1991 to carry out the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to be available only for: (1) the provision of medical supplies and hospital equipment to Poland and for training of Polish medical personnel; and (2) unconditional support of democratic institutions in Poland and Hungary. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should: (1) encourage privately administered educational and cultural exchanges between the United States and Poland and the United States and Hungary through the International Research and Exchanges Board, the National Academy of Sciences, the Fulbright Educational Exchange Program, and the United States Information Agency; (2) consider establishing reciprocal cultural centers in the United States and such countries to facilitate government and privately funded educational exchanges; and (3) consult with western allies and Japan on establishing a comprehensive economic recovery program in Hungary and Poland in the context of binding commitments by such countries to establish democracies and free economies.
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 1989
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the funeral of Imre Nagy and other heroes of the Hungarian revolution of 1956 is a significant symbol of reconciliation and reform and should give strength to the forces of democracy and pluralism in Hungary.
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1989
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the income tax deduction for the amount of health insurance costs of a self-employed individual from 25 percent to 100 percent of such costs for the medical care of the taxpayer and the taxpayer's spouse and dependents. Permits an income tax deduction for self-employed individuals in the amount of their contributions to group health plans that are not self-insured and that provide medical benefits to employees. Requires: (1) an eligible plan to benefit all employees not covered by another group health plan: and (2) that at least half of the plan participants not be self-employed individuals or employee family members of such individuals. Excludes such group health plans from the rules governing (section 89) nondiscrimination requirements for coverage and benefits under certain statutory employee benefit plans. Includes in the gross income of any highly compensated employee the excess benefits provided under a discriminatory group health plan.
United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1989
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide a tax exclusion from the gross income of nonresident aliens for educational and training grants. Exempts certain amounts incident to such grants from withholding taxes.
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1989
Designates August 1, 1989, as Helsinki Human Rights Day. Requests the President to: (1) reassert American commitment to the Helsinki Accords; (2) raise the issue of noncompliance with such Accords with any signatory nation which may be in violation, in particular, the Soviet Union, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, the German Democratic Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Romania; (3) convey to all signatories of such Accords that respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms is vital to progress in the ongoing Helsinki process; and (4) convey to U.S. allies the necessity of unity regarding such Accords.
United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1989
Amends the Tax Reform Act of 1986 to delay until 1990 the effective date of the nondiscrimination requirements for benefits provided under certain employee benefit plans. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise such nondiscrimination requirements by requiring the taxation of the excess health benefits of a highly compensated employee. Excludes from such requirements certain students, certain elderly, and prisoners. Imposes an excise tax on employers or employer plans if an employee benefit plan fails to satisfy certain administrative requirements. Restores prior law with respect to nondiscrimination requirements of group-term life insurance plans. Authorizes an employer to elect to use current nondiscrimination rules for years beginning 1990 or 1991 as they apply to health plans and dependent care assistance programs. Revises provisions relating to the nontaxable benefits of employers of leased employees, dependent care assistance, and group-term life insurance provided to highly compensated employees.
United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1989
Condemns the use of force by the People's Republic of China against unarmed advocates of democracy and human rights in China. Supports the President's actions, including suspension of all Government sales and commercial exports of arms to China. Praises the actions of American diplomatic personnel in China in seeking to insure the safety of American citizens there. Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) certain Chinese students studying in the United States should be granted permission to extend their stay; (2) applications to the Overseas Private Investment Corporation for the protection of investments in China and to the U.S. Export-Import Bank for the financing of trade with China should be reviewed; (3) U.S. departments charged with and considering liberalization of regulations relating to export licenses for sales to China should take into account the current situation; (4) the President should consult major U.S. allies to determine whether multilateral sanctions are necessary; (5) the President should inform the Congress of the results of his planned review of U.S.-Chinese relations and consult with the Congress on further actions to be taken; and (6) the Voice of America should increase its broadcasts to China.