United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1985
African Famine Relief and Recovery Act of 1985 - Title I: Authorizations of Appropriations - Authorizes supplemental appropriations for FY 1985 for famine relief in Africa for: (1) agricultural development programs; (2) international disaster assistance programs; (3) development program operating expenses; and (4) the Migration and Refugee Assistance account of the State Department. Title II: Appropriations - Makes supplemental appropriations for FY 1985 to: (1) the Department of Agriculture for Public Law 480; (2) the Agency for International Development for specified agriculture, rural development, and nutrition programs, for international disaster assistance, and for operating expenses; and (3) the Department of State for migration and refugee assistance. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, in order to prevent waste of commodities acquired by the Commodity Credit Corporation through price support operations, to make at least 300,000 metric tons of agricultural commodities available for FY 1985, provided that at least one third of such commodities are wheat or wheat products. Declares that funds appropriated for Public Law 480, for agriculture, rural development, and nutrition programs (other than funds for rehabilitation and recovery projects), and for international disaster assistance shall be available only for those African countries which suffer from exceptional food supply problems in 1985 due to drought and other calamities. Permits the use of Public Law 480 funds to reimburse certain ongoing famine relief programs. Permits FY 1985 funds to be carried into FY 1986. Declares that funds for rehabilitation and recovery projects and for migration and refugee assistance shall be available only to those African countries which have suffered in the last two years from exceptional food supply problems due to drought and other calamities.
United States · United States Congress · 24 January 1985
Indian Health Care Amendments of 1985 - Title I: Indian Health Manpower - Amends the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to authorize appropriations for specified Indian health programs for FY 1986 through 1989, including scholarship programs. Prohibits the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) from denying scholarship assistance solely on the basis of an applicant's scholastic achievement if such applicant has been admitted to, or maintained good standing at, an accredited health professions institution. Directs the Secretary to grant Indian Health Scholarships to Indians enrolled full-time in certain schools for health professionals. States that the active duty service requirements of the Public Health Service can be met by specified services, including: (1) service under a contract pursuant to the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act; and (2) the private practice of a health professional if such practice is in a health professional shortage area and addresses the health care needs of a substantial number of Indians. Directs the Secretary to maintain a Community Health Representative Program to provide for the training and the use of Indians as health paraprofessionals to Indian communities. Title II: Health Services - Enumerates the health services for which the Secretary is authorized to expend Indian Health Care Improvement Fund appropriations. Prohibits the use of such funds to offset or limit appropriations made under other Acts. Conditions the allocation of such funds upon the health resource deficiency level of the affected Indian tribes. Permits the allocation of such funds on a service unit basis. Requires the Secretary to submit to the Congress a current health services priority system report, including the methodology for determining tribal health resources deficiencies, and the funds needed to raise all tribes to a zero level deficiency. Directs the Secretary to establish a review mechanism for tribal petitions regarding the health resource deficiency level of a tribe. Requires the Secretary to provide a current update of tribal specific health plans. Requires at least one percent of the Indian Health Care Improvement Fund appropriation to be expended for research. Makes programs administered by tribal organizations under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act eligible for specified funds on an equal basis with programs administered directly by the Indian Health Service. Directs the President to include with the submission of the budget a separate statement which specifies the amounts obligated to implement enumerated health services. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1986 through 1989 for specified health services. Designates such appropriations the Indian Health Care Improvement Fund. Establishes an Indian Catastrophic Health Emergency Fund to meet extraordinary medical costs for victims of disasters or catastrophic illness. Authorizes appropriations. Authorizes the Secretary to waive the competitive procurement requirements for health services upon certification by the responsible Chief Medical Officer that such requirements would compromise the quality of health services. Requires the Secretary to provide health promotion and disease prevention services to Indians. Requires each Indian tribe to include within any tribal specific health plan that such tribe is required to submit to the Secretary a comprehensive plan developed by such tribe for health promotion and disease prevention among its members. Title III: Health Facilities - Requires the Secretary to submit to the Congress a health facilities priority system report regarding the construction or renovation needs of the ten top priority inpatient and ambulatory care facilities. Requires the Secretary to consult with any Indian tribe that might be affected by an expenditure for health facilities before the Secretary makes a commitment for such an expenditure. Conditions the closure of any health care facility upon the Secretary's submission to the Congress of an impact assessment one year prior to the contemplated closing. Enumerates the data to be included in such assessment. Directs the President to include with the budgets submitted for FY 1986 through 1989 planning information documents for the construction of ten Indian health facilities. Directs the Secretary to implement a ten-year plan to provide safe water and sanitary sewage and solid waste disposal facilities to Indian homes and communities. Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress regarding the Indian Health Service's current Indian sanitation facility priority system and the funds needed to raise all communities or tribes to a zero level of deficiency. Authorizes specified appropriations to provide sanitation facilities. Authorizes the Secretary to provide financial and technical assistance for the operation and maintenance of sanitation facilities, utility organizations, and emergency repairs of sanitation facilities. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1986 through 1989. Authorizes tribes to expend certain non-Indian Health Service funds for the renovation of Indian health facilities, subject to specified conditions. Title IV: Access to Health Services - Extends the authorization for specified appropriations for grants and contracts with tribal organizations from FY 1986 through 1989. Amends the Social Security Act to make certain providers of the Indian Health Service eligible for Medicare and Medicaid payments. Directs the Secretary to ensure that each service unit of the Indian Health Service receives at least half of the amounts to which its facilities are entitled, if such amounts are necessary to bring the facilities into compliance with this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish a demonstration project in which certain Indian (and Alaska Native) health organizations which provide health care services shall bill for Medicare and Medicaid payments directly. Requires the Secretary to monitor such organizations and to require quarterly reports on their operations. Sets forth eligibility and participation guidelines for such health service facilities. Requires a final report to the Congress by September 30, 1989. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study in consultation with Indian tribes regarding barriers to Indian participation in Medicare or Medicaid programs. Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress regarding such study. Title V: Urban Indian Health Services - Directs the Secretary to contract with urban Indian organizations to administer health services programs in urban areas. Sets forth specified requirements to be included in such contracts. Details eligibility criteria for the selection of such organizations. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into contracts with urban Indian organizations to determine the health status and unmet health care needs of urban Indians in affected urban areas. Delineates the requirements of such contracts. Requires the Secretary to: (1) develop evaluation procedures for the performance of such contracts; and (2) conduct annual onsite evaluations of each contracting urban Indian organization. Prescribes guidelines for the renewal of health care or referral services contracts. Prohibits renewal of contracts for determination of unmet health needs if their performance has been non-compliant or otherwise unsatisfactory and problems cannot be resolved. Requires certain reports to the Congress. Title VI: Organizational Improvements - Requires the Secretary to establish an automated management information system for the Indian Health Service. Establishes the Indian Health Service within the Public Health Service of the Department of Health and Human Services (thus terminating the Indian Health Service as part of the Health Resources and Services Administration). Places the Indian Health Service under the direction of a Director of the Indian Health Service who shall report only to the Secretary through the Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services for Health. Directs the Secretary to implement through the Director all health programs and authorities which are provided specifically for Indians. Directs the Secretary to submit to the Congress a plan for the implementation of the amendments made by this section. Title VII: Miscellaneous - Authorizes the Secretary to enter into legal agreements with Indian tribes or tribal organizations in order to provide compensation for facility space costs associated with the administration and delivery of health services by the Indian Health Service or tribally operated programs. Directs the Secretary to coordinate efforts with the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Education to develop programs to combat alcohol and drug abuse among Indian juveniles, including preventive education programs in schools operated by or under the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Directs the Secretary to establish an Office of Alcohol and Drug Abuse within the Indian Health Service. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1986 through 1989. Directs the Secretary to arrange with the National Academy of Sciences, in consultation with the Office of Technology Assessment, to conduct a study of health hazards faced by Indians and Indian miners exposed to nuclear resource developments on or near Indian communities. Directs the Secretary and the Indian Health Service to develop a health care plan which addresses the results of such study. Directs the Secretary to submit to the Congress both the health hazard study and the ensuing health care plan, within certain times. Authorizes appropriations for such study. Extends from FY 1984 to 1989 the time during which Arizona is designated as a contract health service delivery area. Authorizes appropriations. Extends eligibility for health services of specified Indians in the State of California from FY 1984 through 1988. Establishes eligibility guidelines for certain California Indian and for certain persons who are otherwise ineligible for medical benefits provided by either the Indian Health Service or by tribes contracting with the Service. Designates the State of California as a contract health service delivery area. Lists programs eligible for Indian Health Service funds. Restricts circumstances under which the Secretary may remove a member of the National Health Service Corps who is performing obligated service in a health facility operated by or under the Indian Health Service. Sets a deadline by which the Secretary must develop and implement a plan to reduce Indian infant and maternal mortality rates to that of the general population. Requires the Secretary to: (1) complete within one year implementation of a program to prevent and control hepatitis-B in Alaska; (2) report to the Congress about the status of such program; and (3) request budget authority for a hepatitis-B control program in Alaska. Directs the Secretary to provide contract health services to the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians who reside in the Trenton Service Area of specified counties in the States of North Dakota and Montana. Directs the Secretary to conduct a population survey of Indians residing in such Service Area in order to determine the basis for distributing equity health care funds and providing contract health care. Provides for the designation of additional counties in the Trenton Service area based upon the population survey results. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study of the physical and mental health care needs of Native Hawaiians and other Native American Pacific Islanders, and to report the results of such study to the Congress by a certain time.
United States · United States Congress · 24 January 1985
Acid Deposition Control Act - Amends the Clean Air Act to establish an interstate transport and acid precursor reduction program. Designates an acid deposition impact region comprising a long-range transport corridor of 31 States east of the Mississippi and the District of Columbia. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to report to the Congress within two years on a study of long-range transport of pollutants problems in the remaining States. Prohibits the increase of emissions of sulfur dioxide and of oxides of nitrogen from stationary sources in the acid deposition impact region over total actual emissions there as of January 1, 1981. Sets forth sulfur dioxide emmission reduction standards for the acid deposition impact region of ten million tons below 1980 levels by the beginning of 1994. Requires each impact region State to reduce its emissions proportionately to its share of the region's total excess emissions, permitting States to reallot reductions among themselves so long as the total reductions of the States invovled meet the required standards. Requires each State to adopt enforceable emission reduction measures for sulfur dioxide, including compliance schedules, within two years. Requires the Administrator's approval and the other Governors' perusal of such measures. Requires each major stationary source subject to an emission limitation to notify the Governor of the State, and in turn, the Administrator, within four years of its intended method of compliance. Requires sources choosing fuel substitution to be in compliance with applicable emission limitations within six years. Requires those sources complying through the installation of a technological system of continuous emission reduction or the replacement of facilities to have entered into binding contracts for such system or replacement facilities within six years. Requires owners of major stationary sources of sulfur dioxide emissions to submit to the Administrator a compliance plan and schedule if their State has not done so. Provides that failure to do so constitutes a violation of emission limitations under the Clean Air Act. Permits the use of the following measures to reduce emissions in addition to enforceable continuous emission reduction measures if such measures are enforceable by entities and persons other than the State in which the emissions occur: (1) least emissions dispatch to meet electric generating demand at existing generating capacity; (2) retirement of major stationary sources at an earlier than provided for date; (3) investments in energy conservation where emission reductions can be identified with such investments; (4) trading of emission reduction requirements and actual reductions through emission reduction banks or brokerage institutions; and (5) precombustion cleaning of fuels. Permits a State or the owner or operator of a source required to reduce sulfur dioxide emissions to substitute oxides of nitrogen reductions at a rate of two for one out measure by weight. Makes it a violation of the Clear Air Act to emit an air pollutant which adversely affects the public health or welfare of another State or foreign country.
United States · United States Congress · 24 January 1985
New Columbia Admission Act - Declares the State of New Columbia (presently the District of Columbia) to be a State of the United States of America. Admits New Columbia into the Union on an equal footing with the other States in all respects. Reserves Federal title to certain lands and property. Sets forth election protocol for popular ratification of statehood. Provides for election of one member of the House of Representatives as well as two Senators. Maintains the laws that were territorially in effect. Continues any law suits already pending in District of Columbia courts.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1985
Unfair Foreign Competition Act of 1985 - Amends the Clayton Act to include a specified antidumping provision among U.S. antitrust laws. Amends the antidumping provision to allow any person who is injured in her or his property or business by the sale or importation of an article made in a foreign country to bring a civil action against the manufacturer, exporter, or importer of such article if: (1) the article is imported or sold in the United States at less than its foreign market or constructed value; and (2) such sale or importation causes or threatens material injury to U.S. industry or labor or prevents the establishment or modernization of U.S. industry. (Currently, the cause of such an action is predicated on the intent of the importer to injure or prevent the establishment of U.S. industry or to monopolize trade.) Restricts the district court jurisdiction of such an action to the District of Columbia. Entitles a prevailing plaintiff in such an action to recover: (1) compensatory damages (currently, treble damages) or appropriate equitable relief; and (2) legal expenses. Declares that the standard of proof in such an action is a preponderance of the evidence. Places the burden of proof for rebutting a prima facie case on the defendant. Includes within the meaning of prima facie case a finding by the International Trade Commission (ITC) that dumping exists. Authorizes the district court to: (1) issue subpoenas outside its judicial district if necessary; (2) enjoin importation of articles allegedly dumped pending the defendant's compliance with any court order; (3) review, in camera, confidential or privileged material; (4) accept material under seal; and (5) disclose such material. Requires expedited treatment of such actions. Sets a four-year statute of limitations for actions under this Act. Requires the foreign market value or constructed value of an article to include the amount of any subsidy provided to the manufacturer, producer, or exporter of the article. Expresses the sense of the Congress that this Act is consistent with the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1985
Directs the Administrator of Veterans Affairs, the Secretary of the Navy, and other custodians of records to delete certain references to the mental health of a named individual. Directs the Administrator to take certain actions with respect to the payment of veterans' benefits to such individual. Confers jurisdiction upon the U.S. district courts to hear, determine, and render judgment upon any claim by such individual against the United States from the alleged negligence of Veterans Administration personnel in failing to properly diagnose his medical condition during the years 1965 through 1972.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1985
Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the policy of separate development and the forced relocation of South Africans is inconsistent with American values and internationally recognized human rights principles; (2) U.S. nonrecognition of South African "homeland" independence should continue; (3) travel to the United States should be denied to "homeland" officials who seek to enter this country unless they hold a valid passport recognized by the United States; and (4) the United States should urge that the forced relocation of South Africans be discontinued and that the rights of all South Africans be protected. Requests the President to send a copy of this resolution to Republic of South Africa officials.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Children's Justice Act - Amends the Child Abuse Amendments of 1984 to authorize a Children's Justice Grant Program. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make additional grants to States under specified provisions of the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act for identification, treatment, and prevention of sexual abuse. Makes a State eligible for such assistance if the Secretary determines that the State, within one year after the enactment of this Act, has enacted specified legal and administrative changes with respect to the investigation and prosecution of child sexual abuse cases. Requires a State, to be eligible for such assistance, to have in effect a child sexual abuse program which includes at least one statute or administrative procedure to carry out the following categories of reforms: (1) handling such cases so as to reduce the trauma to the child victim; (2) improving the chances of successful prosecution or legal action against child molesters; and (3) improving procedures to protect children from sexual abuse. Directs the Secretary to issue necessary regulations for such assistance program. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1986 and 1987.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Amends the Federal criminal code to define "armor-piercing ammunition." Excludes from the definition: (1) shot gun shot required by Federal or State regulations for hunting; (2) frangible projectiles for target shooting; and (3) projectiles that the Secretary of the Treasury determines are primarily intended for sporting purposes. Makes it unlawful for any person to manufacture or import armor-piercing ammunition. Allows for: (1) the manufacture or importation of armor piercing ammunition for the use of the United States or any State or local government; and (2) manufacture for the sole purpose of exportation. Establishes a licensing fee of $1,000 per year for manufacturers and importers of armor-piercing ammunition. Imposes an additional mandatory sentence of not less than five years for any person who uses or carries a firearm and is in possession of armor-piercing ammunition during the commission of a violent felony. Provides that such sentence shall not be suspended nor probation nor parole be granted.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
American Defense Education Act - Authorizes a national program to provide incentives to local educational agencies to improve: (1) instruction in mathematics, science, and communication skills, foreign languages, and technology; and (2) guidance and counseling. Title I: Elementary and Secondary Education Programs - Requires local education agencies which desire to participate in such national program to develop and carry out a program of improvement of instruction and student achievement. Sets forth requirements for such programs. Entitles participating local educational agencies to receive basic payments for each fiscal year equal to two percent of an established payment rate multiplied by the average daily attendance. Entitles agencies which show substantial evidence of meeting program goals to an incentive payment equal to an additional two percent of the established payment rate multiplied by the average daily attendance. Sets forth formulas for establishing such payment rate. Sets forth requirements for applications for payments. Directs the Secretary of Education to approve applications which meet such requirements. Title II: Teacher Training and Postsecondary Programs - Authorizes the Secretary to establish a program of grants to institutions of higher education for coordination between such institutions and local educational agencies in improving science and mathematics education, through precollege teacher training, development, and recruitment programs. Sets forth requirements for grant proposals and priorities in grant selection. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1987 through 1989 for such grants. Title III: Research to Improve Instruction - Directs the Secretary to administer, through the National Institute of Education (NIE) in consultation with appropriate Federal agencies, a program to support research and development into effective education in mathematics, the sciences, foreign languages, and technology. Authorizes appropriations in the Department of Education to be made available to NIE to carry out such educational research program for FY 1987 through 1989. Title IV: General Provisions - Directs the Secretary to administer the program and to pay each local educational agency with an approved application the amount to which it is entitled for each fiscal year under title I provisions. Provides for a joint survey and report to Congress by the Secretaries of Defense and Education, for each year from 1987 through 1990, on the academic achievement levels of U.S. 18-year-olds and the personnel training and educational needs of the armed forces.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
American Conservation Corps Act of 1985 - Establishes an American Conservation Corps within the Departments of the Interior and Agriculture. Directs the Secretaries of both departments to establish and administer a conservation and rehabilitation program on Federal public and Indian lands. Directs the Secretary of the Interior alone to establish and administer such a program on non-Federal public lands. Directs the Secretaries to assist program agencies (any Federal, State, or Indian agency responsible for the management of public lands) in establishing and operating residential and nonresidential American Conservation Corps Centers. Describes the types of projects which will receive program preference. Limits program projects to those on public lands or Indian lands, except where projects on nonpublic lands provide documented public benefits. Sets forth requirements for establishing conservation centers and eligibility criteria for enrollees in the program. Requires that preference be given to economically, socially, physically, and educationally disadvantaged youth and youth residing in areas having substantial unemployment. Requires program agencies to provide services, facilities, supplies, and equipment for conservation centers as the Secretary deems necessary. States under what conditions and for what purposes an enrollee/volunteer shall be deemed a Federal or State employee. Permits the Tennessee Valley Authority to utilize such volunteers. Sets forth compensation and reimbursement provisions for volunteers and their upkeep. Directs the Secretaries to assist program agencies in securing certification or academic credit for skills acquired by volunteers during their participation and to conduct cost-benefit analysis and evaluations of the program. Permits the Secretaries to conduct pilot programs for alternative approaches. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to report to the Congress within the year on a study of Civilian Conservation Corps sites suitable for a commemoration of such Corps. Sets forth study opportunities and limitations for program volunteers, including a requirement that program agencies provide job guidance and placement assistance. Directs the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture to report at least annually to the President and the Congress. Directs the Secretary of Labor to make available appropriate labor market information. Sets forth employee appeal rights for workers displaced by American Conservation Corps volunteers. Sets forth funding limitations. Requires participating program agencies to certify that their programs will not displace workers. Sets forth procedures whereby State shares go to local governments when no State program agency exists. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 and 1986.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Child-Care Assistance Act of 1985 - States that nothing in this Act shall be construed to authorize interference with parental authority. Requires States to submit a plan to the Secretary of Health and Human Services in order to participate in a child-care assistance program authorized under this Act. Requires such State plan to include provisions on: (1) the designation of a responsible State agency; (2) distribution of funds, with priority to be given to child-care providers with priority for services on the basis of family need; (3) the establishment of fee schedules for services based on family need and size; (4) information and referral services; (5) child-care personnel training; (6) licensing of child-care providers; (7) parental involvement in the planning and evaluating of child-care programs; (8) maximum allowable administrative costs; (9) the establishment of a State Advisory Panel on child-care matters; and (10) hearings on adverse decisions of the State agency or any funded program. Directs the Secretary to approve any plan complying with the requirements of this Act. States that the Secretary must first provide notice and a hearing before disapproving any State plan. Directs the Secretary to designate, within the Department of Health and Human Services, an administrative unit and an individual in charge of such unit to carry out the provisions of this Act and to coordinate other child-care activities within such Department. Provides for the establishment, within the Office of the Secretary, of a National Advisory Panel on Child Care Needs and Services. Directs the Secretary, with the assistance of the National Advisory Panel, to develop standards for programs under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants and to enter into contracts for demonstration child-care projects. Directs participating States to submit a report to the Secretary outlining the current status of child-care licensing within the State. Directs the Secretary to develop a Model State Licensing of Child Care Providers Act as a guide. Authorizes the Secretary to provide training and technical assistance to the States. Limits allotments of funds appropriated under this Act to not more than one percent for Guam, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. Establishes an allotment priority system for the States based on the number of children living in homes in which: (1) both parents are employed; or (2) the child resides with only one parent and that parent is employed. Authorizes the Secretary, after reasonable notice and opportunity for hearing, to withhold payments to any State where there has been a substantial failure to comply with requirements of such State's plan or other applicable provisions under this Act. Directs the Secretary to: (1) review and evaluate programs carried out under this Act; and (2) submit a report on national child-care needs to the President and the Congress not later than four years after enactment of this Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1986 through 1990. Provides that no appropriations are authorized under this Act for FY 1986 in the event that a concurrent resolution for FY 1986 is in effect which sets forth total budget outlays for FY 1986 in an amount which does not exceed a specified sum.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
High Technology Research and Scientific Education Act of 1985 - Title I: The Credit for Increasing Research Activities - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make permanent the tax credit for research and development (R&D) expenditures. Modifies the definition of qualified research for purposes of the R&D credit to narrow the category of eligible activities for which the credit is available. Provides that all in-house and contract research expenses paid or incurred by a regular corporation shall constitute qualified R&D expenses for credit purposes if the corporation undertakes the research with the intention to use the results thereof in the active conduct of a present or future trade or business. Provides that in the case of research being conducted in the partnership form, the trade or business test is applied at the partnership level, and the credit is apportioned among the partners in accordance with general partnership rules. Title II: Promotion of University Research and Scientific Education - Establishes a new income tax credit equal to 20 percent of that portion of a corporation's payments to universities (and other nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations for basic research) which exceeds a fixed, historical "minimum university basic research" floor. Defines the fixed "minimum university basic research" floor as one percent of the annual average of the corporate taxpayer's combined qualified in-house research expenses, contract research expenses, and university basic research payments for the base period composed of the period from 1981 through 1983. Modifies the charitable contribution deduction of corporations for scientific and technical property to: (1) expand the eligible uses to which the property may be put to include direct education as well as research and research training; (2) make computer software eligible for the deduction; and (3) make state-of-the-art equipment used in the taxpayer's trade or business eligible for the deduction. Sets forth a formula for determining the amount of the allowable deduction for scientific equipment. Provides for an income tax exclusion for the scholarships, fellowship grants, student loan forgiveness, or stipends of students who are enrolled in postgraduate study as degree candidates. Provides that such tax exclusion will not be forfeited merely because the student is required, as a condition of the scholarship or fellowship, to perform future service in teaching or research.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Amends the Steel Import Stabilization Act to direct the U.S. Trade Representative, in negotiating with Japan and South Korea on steel products import limits, to negotiate the apportionment of the aggregate limit among specified subcategories of steel products. Directs the U.S. Trade Representative to apportion the aggregate limit if such negotiations are not successfully concluded within 30 days of the enactment of this Act. Sets forth such subcategories.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to provide coverage as a "qualified pregnant woman" to a pregnant woman who is a member of a family which meets the income and resources requirements of part A (Aid to Families with Dependent Children) of title IV of such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Amends part E (Foster Care and Adoption Assistance) of title IV of the Social Security Act to extend for one year: (1) the conditional ceiling on Federal financial participation in foster care; (2) the provision which permits a State to use, under part B (Child Welfare Services) of title IV, funds made available to it under the conditional ceiling that are not needed under part E; and (3) the provision permitting Federal financial participation for foster care for certain children voluntarily placed in foster care.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Prohibits the expenditure of funds for the production of lethal binary chemical munitions after the enactment of this Act. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the President should intensify efforts to reach agreement with the Soviet Union and other countries for a mutual, verifiable ban on chemical weapons; and (2) the Department of Defense should improve the capability of the United States to detect chemical weapons and protect members of the armed forces from the effects of such weapons.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Constitutional Amendment - Declares that equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State on account of sex.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
States that the United States and the Soviet Union should: (1) pursue a complete halt to the nuclear arms race; (2) decide when and how to achieve a mutual verifiable freeze on the testing, production, and further deployment of nuclear warheads, missiles, and other delivery systems; (3) give special attention to destabilizing weapons; and (4) proceeding from this freeze, pursue major, mutual, and verifiable reductions in nuclear warheads, missiles, and other delivery systems.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
States that the Senate condemns the Soviet Union's military terrorism and attempted destruction of Afghanistan. Recommends that the President provide medical, military, and food assistance to the Afghan Freedom Fighters.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should appoint a special diplomatic envoy to investigate and report on how the United States could assist Ireland, Great Britain, and communities in Northern Ireland in arriving at a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Northern Ireland.
United States · United States Congress · 4 October 1984
Expresses the Senate's appreciation to members of the entertainment industry, especially the Entertainment Industries Council, for their work in discouraging and communicating the danger of drug use.
United States · United States Congress · 3 October 1984
Expresses the Senate's appreciation to members of the entertainment industry, especially the Entertainment Industries Council, for their work in discouraging and communicating the danger of drug use.
United States · United States Congress · 13 September 1984
States that the Congress supports the Chilean people in their efforts to end the military dictatorship and restore democratic institutions and human rights in Chile. Provides that until Chile returns to democracy the United States should: (1) deny all military and economic assistance, including guarantees and loans from the Export-Import Bank and the Commodity Credit Corporation; and (2) oppose all loans and grants to Chile by the Inter-American Development Bank, the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and the International Development Association, unless such assistance is directed to programs which serve the basic human needs of the people.
United States · United States Congress · 10 August 1984
Arms Race Control Act of 1984 - Directs the President to propose to the Soviet Union that the two sides agree to halt for a limited time: (1) the flight, testing, and deployment of strategic ballistic missiles under development; (2) the testing of antisatellite weapons against objects in space; and (3) the detonation of any nuclear explosive device. Prohibits the obligation or spending of any funds, beginning six months after enactment of this Act, for any such testing, deployment, or detonation unless the President provides a determination and certification to the Congress, together with an unclassified report and a detailed classified report setting forth the basis for the decision stating that: (1) the President has tried in good faith and has failed to achieve a mutual and verifiable agreement with the Soviet Union to impose the constraints on such testing, deployment, and detonation; (2) the President has reliable evidence that the Soviet Union is proceeding with such testing, deployment, or detonation; and (3) failure of the United States to do the same would undermine the national security. Provides for the allocation of personnel as may be appropriate to ensure continued progress toward the goal of a comprehensive halt in the nuclear arms race. Directs the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Director of the United States Arms Control and Disarmament Agency, to transmit to the Congress an annual report regarding the status of and prospects for bilateral and multilateral negotiations to accomplish the goal of a comprehensive halt in the nuclear arms race.
United States · United States Congress · 10 August 1984
Diversity in Broadcasting Act of 1984 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit the Federal Communications Commission from approving an application for a television broadcasting station license or for the transfer or assignment of any such license if such approval would result in the applicant controlling: (1) more than ten VHF broadcasting stations; (2) VHF stations the aggregate signals of which can be received by more than 22 and one half percent of the television households in the United States; or (3) television broadcasting stations the aggregate signals of which can be received by more than 27 and one half percent of U.S. television households. Authorizes higher limitations with respect to broadcasting service provided by minority controlled stations.
United States · United States Congress · 10 August 1984
Amends the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 to extend through FY 1987 the authorization of appropriations in the following areas: (1) grants for operation of health projects; (2) general authorization of appropriations; (3) public works and development facility loans; (4) business loans and loan guarantees; (5) the redevelopment area loan program; (6) technical assistance and economic development planning; (7) supplemental and basic grants; (8) assistance to economic development districts; (9) Indian economic development; and (10) grants to areas with high unemployment, economic adjustment problems, or long-term economic deterioration problems. Extends through FY 1987 (currently FY 1981) the authority of the Secretary of Commerce to obligate funds appropriated for emergency financial assistance to create job opportunities in areas with high unemployment.
United States · United States Congress · 10 August 1984
Congratulates the U.S. athletes who participated in the games of the XXIII Olympiad in Los Angeles. Urges the speedy enactment of S. 2568 (discrimination by Federal assistance recipients).
United States · United States Congress · 9 August 1984
Drug Price Competition and Patent Term Restoration Act of 1984 - Title I: Abbreviated New Drug Applications - Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to authorize abbreviated applications for the approval of a new drug. Sets forth the contents of an abbreviated application, including: (1) information to show that the conditions of use prescribed in the labeling proposed for a new drug have been previously approved for a drug that appears on a list prepared by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (listed drug); and (2) a certification relating to patents covering such listed drug. Requires an applicant who makes such a certification to state in the application that a specified notice has been given to: (1) each owner of the patent (or owner-representative); and (2) the holder (or holder-representative) of the approved application for the drug or drug use claimed by the patent. Sets forth information to be included in such notice. Requires the permission of the Secretary before an abbreviated application may be submitted for a new drug which has a different active ingredient or whose route of administration, dosage form, or strength differ from that of a listed drug. Directs the Secretary to approve an application for a drug unless specified findings are made. Requires the Secretary to approve or disapprove an application within a specified time. Requires the approval of a drug to be withdrawn or suspended if the application for approval was abbreviated and it refers to a drug the approval of which was withdrawn or suspended for specified reasons. Requires the Secretary, within 60 days of enactment, to publish: (1) a list of each drug which has been approved for safety and effectiveness before enactment of this Act; (2) the date of approval (if after 1981) and the number of the application; and (3) whether in vitro or in vitro bioequivalence studies, or both, are required for applications filed under this Act which will refer to the drug published. Provides for periodic revisions of the list. Prohibits listing of a drug whose approval has been withdrawn or suspended. Requires the applicant to file with the application (or amend it when the information becomes available) the patent number and the expiration date of any patent which claims the drug or a method of using it and with respect to which a claim of patent infringement could reasonably be asserted if a non-licensee engaged in the drug's manufacture, use, or sale. Requires the Secretary to disapprove the application if it does not contain such patent information, or to withdraw appproval if the patent information was not filed within a specified time after notification. Requires a similar certification relating to patents covering a drug for which the applicant files a non-abbreviated application for approval. Requires the applicant who makes such a certification to state that the applicant has given notice to specified patent-owners and application-holders or their representatives. Requires safety and effectiveness data submitted in a non-abbreviated application to be made available to the public, if not previously disclosed, upon request, under certain conditions. Provides for the promulgation of regulations to administer the amendments made by this title. Title II: Patent Extension - Extends the term of a patent which claims a product, a method of using a product, or a method of manufacturing a product if specified conditions are met. Requires among such conditions that: (1) the term of the patent has not expired before an application for extension is submitted; (2) the term of the patent has never been extended; and (3) an application for extension is submitted by the owner of record of the patent or its agent and in accordance with specified requirements. Sets special conditions for an application for a product primarily using recombinant DNA technology. Limits the rights derived from a patent during an extension period to the rights available before the term of the patent expired. Limits, with specified exceptions, the term of the extension to the time equal to the regulatory review period for the approved product. Sets forth the requirements for an extension application. Requires the Patent Commissioner to notify the Secretary of Health and Human Services of the extension application if the patent involves any human drug product, a medical device, or a food or color additive, or a method of use or manufacture subject to the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. Provides for review of the application by the Secretary. Declares that it is not a patent infringement to make, use, or sell a patented invention (other than a new animal drug or veterinary biological product) solely for uses reasonably related to the development and submission of information under a Federal law which regulates the manufacture, use, or sale of drugs. Declares that it shall be a patent infringement to submit an abbreviated application for a drug claimed, or whose use is claimed, in a patent if the purpose of the submission is to obtain approval to engage in the commercial manufacture, use, or sale of such a drug before the patent expires. Sets forth civil remedies for such an infringement. Prohibits injunctive or other relief in an action for patent infringement if the relief would prohibit the making, using, or selling of a patented invention for uses reasonably related to the development of information under a Federal drug regulatory law. Makes the invalidity of a patent extension a defense in a patent infringement action. Title III: Separability Clause - Provides that if any provision of this Act is declared unconstitutional, the remainder of the Act shall not be affected.
United States · United States Congress · 9 August 1984
Conrail Infrastructure Fund Act - Amends the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 to establish a revolving fund through which proceeds from the sale of Conrail shall be used for rail-related infrastructure capital improvements. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to distribute money in the fund among the States based on the amount of State taxes exempted under the Northeast Rail Services Act of 1981. Requires that the remainder of such funds be allocated on the basis of a formula relating to Conrail mileage on April 1, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 9 August 1984
Expresses the sense of the Senate that no recess appointments should be made when the Senate stands adjourned or recessed within a session for a period of less than 30 days.
United States · United States Congress · 9 August 1984
Reaffirms the U.S. commitment to the furnishing of population assistance. Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) U.S. policy toward furnishing such assistance should continue; and (2) the President should not deny funds to any multilateral institution or nongovernmental or private and voluntary organization because of their participation in family planning activities that are financed with funds from non-Federal sources as long as those activities are in accordance with U.S. laws.
United States · United States Congress · 8 August 1984
Federal Merit Scholarship Act - Amends the Higher Eduation Act of 1965 to establish a Federal Merit Scholarship Program. Authorizes the Secretary of Education to make grants to States to enable States to award scholarships to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and who show promise of continued academic achievement. Provides that such scholarships shall be awarded for a period of one academic year for the first year of study at any institution of higher education which the student chooses to attend. Provides for allocation of program funds to each State according to a formula based on the number of individuals in the State eligible for such scholarships. Sets forth requirements for program agreements between the Secretary and each State desiring to participate in such scholarship program. Requires that each student awarded such a scholarship: (1) be a graduate of a public or private secondary school; (2) have been admitted for enrollment at an institution of higher education; and (3) show promise of continued academic achievement, pursuant to criteria established by the Secretary. Authorizes the State educational agency (SEA) to establish the criteria for the selection of merit scholars. Directs the SEA to adopt selection procedures designed to assure that ten individuals will be selected from among residents of each congressional district in a State (and in the case of the District of Columbia and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico not to exceed ten individuals selected in such District or Commonwealth). Provides that each student awarded a merit scholarship shall receive a stipend of $1,500 for the academic year of study for which it is awarded. Directs the SEA to establish procedures under which merit scholars establish that they are maintaining satisfactory proficiency and devoting full time to the course of study for which the scholarship was awarded. Directs the SEA to make arrangements to award merit scholarships at a place in each State which is convenient to the individuals selected as recipients. Provides that, to the extent possible, the awards shall be made by Members of the Senate and Members of the House of Representatives (or by the Delegate from the District of Columbia or the Resident Commissioner of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico) who represent the State, Commonwealth, or District from which the individuals come. Requires that the selection process be completed and the awards made prior to August 1 in each year, except that such awards shall be made in the first year after the date of enactment of this subpart as soon as possible after such date. Provides that nothing in this or any other Act shall be construed to permit the receipt of a scholarship under the Federal Merit Scholarship Program to be counted for any needs test in connection with the awarding of any grant or the making of any loan under the Higher Education Act of 1965 or any other provision of Federal law relating to Federal assistance. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1986 through 1988 to carry out the Federal Merit Scholarship Program.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 1984
National Advisory Committee on Oceans and Atmosphere Act of 1984 - Establishes the National Advisory Committee on Oceans and Atmosphere (the Committee). Requires the 13 members of the Committee (the currently established committee has 18 members) to: (1) not be full-time U.S. employees; (2) be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate; and (3) relfect diverse backgrounds relating to oceanic and atmospheric policy. Requires the Committee to: (1) continually review ocean policy, coastal zone management, and the U.S. marine and atmospheric science and service programs; and (2) advise the Secretary of Commerce (the Secretary) with respect to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration programs; (3) submit an annual report to the Secretary, President, and Congress. Sets forth provisions relating to: (1) the membership and Chairmanship of the Committee; (2) the terms, compensation and travel expenses of the committee members; and (3) interagency cooperation and assistance. Repeals Federal law establishing qualifications for individuals appointed to the current National Advisory Committee on Oceans and Atmosphere and authorizing appropriations for such committee. Transfers the personnel and functions of such committee to the Committee established under this Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 1984
Proclaims October 23, 1984, as "A Time of Remembrance" for Americans to take time to reflect on the sacrifices that have been made in the pursuit of peace and freedom.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1984
Handicapped Children's Protection Act of 1984 - Amends the Education of the Handicapped Act to authorize the award of a reasonable attorney's fee as part of the costs to a parent or legal representative of a handicapped child or youth who is the prevailing party in a civil suit under such Act to protect the child's right to a free appropriate public education. Provides that such amendment shall apply to actions and proceedings brought on or after July 4, 1984, and actions and proceedings brought prior to such date which were pending on such date. Provides that nothing in the Education of the Handicapped Act shall be construed to restrict or limit the rights, procedures, and remedies under the Constitution, title V of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, or other Federal statutes prohibiting discrimination.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1984
United States Skills Corporation Act - Authorizes the Director of the United States Skills Corporation established by this Act to make grants to State skills corporations. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 and 1986 for formula grants. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1989 for competitive grants. Requires the Director to reserve up to a specified amount from appropriations for competitive grants for the purpose of carrying out provisions for innovative grants. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1985 through 1989 for administrative expenses relating to carrying out this Act. Requires a State Governor to designate or establish a quasi-public corporation, a public nonprofit corporation, or a State agency as the State skills corporation in order for the State to receive funds under this Act. Requires that such State skills corporation: (1) have as one of its principal corporate purposes the provision of a skill training and education program consistent with the employment needs of the State; (2) receive matching funds from direct State appropriation; and (3) receive financial support from business and industry in the State, together with information, technical assistance, and financial support from business concerns within the State. Requires the State to certify that such designation has been made, that such requirements are met, and that Federal assistance is essential to the success of such programs. Sets forth provisions for distribution of assistance through formula grants and competitive grants. Sets forth grant application requirements. Requires that at least 50 percent of program funds be furnished by business concerns within the State, with specified exceptions. Requires each State skills corporation to furnish evidence that: (1) a required analysis of State training needs was prepared with the cooperation of business concerns within the State, including private industry councils; and (2) the State Job Training Coordinating Council (SJTCC) established under the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) has reviewed the application with regard to how the State skills corporation activities supplement and are coordinated with programs under JTPA and the Vocational Education Act of 1963. Requires that dissenting views and comments of the SJTCC be forwarded with the application. Permits joint applications. Establishes a United States Skills Corporation as an independent agency of the executive branch. Requires that the Corporation be headed by a Director appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Establishes in the Corporation an advisory board on skills. Sets forth requirements for membership of such advisory board. Requires such advisory board to assist the Director in approving applications for grants under this Act. Authorizes the Director, from specified funds reserved from appropriations for competitive grants, to make innovative grants to support skills corporation programs of an experimental nature. Prohibits any innovative grant from being made to a State skills corporation which has not met specified requirements. Authorizes the Director to operate an information clearinghouse with respect to State skills corporations and their programs and activities. Requires the Director, in carrying out such function, to collect, analyze, and disseminate such information to the public. Authorizes the Director to sponsor and conduct special institutes, conferences, demonstration projects and studies which increase communication and cooperation among Federal, State, and local public agencies, business concerns, public and private institutions and organizations (particularly institutions involved in economic development, employment opportunities, and skills training and education). Sets forth administrative provisions for the Corporation. Requires the Corporation to submit an annual report of its operations under this Act to the President and the Congress. Sets forth provisions relating to audits. Requires the Director to report annually to the President and the Congress on the activities conducted with assistance under this Act, together with recommendations for improvements in the program. Requires the Director to pay States the Federal share of programs under formula grants and competitive grants. Sets such Federal share at 25 percent for each fiscal year. Provides that the contribution of business concerns may be in cash or in kind, including but not limited to planning expenses, plant, equipment, and services. Defines "State" as each of the several States, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
![Official portrait of Sen. Kennedy, Edward M. [D-MA]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/k000105_200.jpg)