United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1977
Grants the Court of Claims jurisdiction to render judgments against the United States upon claims for losses other than lost profits sustained by producers, processors, manufacturers, distributors, dealers, or other persons resulting from the ban on apparel, fabric, yarn, or fiber containing Tris phosphate.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1977
Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act - Title I: National Park System - Designates specified public lands in the state of Alaska to be included as units of the National Park System. Title II: National Wildlife Refuge System - Establishes specified areas in Alaska as units of the National Wildlife Refuge System. Title III: National Wild and Scenic Rivers System - Lists rivers in Alaska which shall be wild rivers for purposes of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Title IV: National Forest System - Authorizes the President to add specified lands to the Tongass and Chugach National Forest in Alaska. Title V: National Petroleum Reserve In Alaska - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to manage the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska in such a manner as to preserve subsistence lands for natives and to promote specified conservation objectives. Title VI: Designation of Wilderness Areas - Designates specified Alaskan lands to be included in the National Wilderness Preservation System. Title VII: General Administrative Provisions - Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to designate subsistence management zones and to establish regulatory subsistence boards to further the preservation of subsistence lands for natives. Makes additional administrative provisions. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1977
Prohibits commerce in contraband cigarettes. Defines "contraband cigarettes" as a quantity of more than 20,000 cigarettes, bearing no evidence of payment of applicable State cigarette taxes, which are in the possession of any person other than (1) a person licensed by the State where the cigarettes are found or by the Internal Revenue Service, (2) a common or contract carrier, or (3) a government agent in the performance of duties. Subjects dealers in cigarettes to such reporting requirements as the Secretary of the Treasury may prescribe.
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1977
Criminal Code Reform Act - Title I: Codification, Revision, and Reform of Title 18 - Defines the criminal jurisdiction of the United States. Declares a general rule that the existence of Federal jurisdiction is not preemptive. Enumerates offenses which are exceptions to the rule. Lists culpable states of mind; defines them; and requires that, unless otherwise specified, a culpable state of mind must be shown with respect to each element of every offense in this Act. Specifies the particular state of mind which must be shown if an offense is described without designating the required state of mind. Details standards relative to the liability of an accomplice, of an organization for the conduct of its agent, and of an agent for the conduct of an organization. Sets forth criminal offenses against the United States. Designates a category for each offense for purposes of punishment rather than prescribing a penalty for each crime separately. Organizes offenses by type rather than alphabetically. Specifies the types of offenses as follows: (1) offenses of general applicability, including criminal attempt, criminal conspiracy, and criminal solicitation; (2) offenses involving national defense, including treason and related offenses, sabotage and related offenses, espionage and related offenses, and atomic energy offenses; (3) offenses involving international affairs, including foreign relations crimes, and immigration, naturalization, and passport crimes; (4) offenses involving government processes, including general obstructions of government functions, obstructions of law enforcement, obstructions of justice, contempt offenses, perjury and related offenses, and commercial bribery and related offenses; (5) offenses involving taxation, including internal revenue offenses and customs offenses; (6) offenses involving individual rights, including civil rights crimes, privacy crimes, and political rights crimes; (7) offenses involving the person, including homicide offenses, assault offenses, kidnapping and related offenses, highjacking offenses, and sex offenses; (8) offenses involving property, including arson and other property destruction offenses, burglary and other criminal intrusion offenses, robbery, extortion, blackmail, theft and related offenses, counterfeiting and related offenses, commercial bribery and related offenses, and investment, monetary, and antitrust offenses; and (9) offenses involving public order, safety, health, and welfare, including organized crime offenses, drug offenses, explosives and firearms offenses, riot offenses, public health offenses, gambling offenses, obscenity offenses, prostitution, failure to obey an officer, and violating State or local law in a Federal enclave. Includes among new Federal offenses (1) a series of crimes dealing with obstruction of an election and misuse of power for political purposes, (2) consumer fraud, (3) possession of eavesdropping devices, (4) possession of burglar's tools, and (5) conspiracy in the United States to assassinate a foreign official outside the United States. Revises other offenses, among them (1) contempt (adds invalidity of court orders as a defense), (2) unlawful discrimination (includes sex as unlawful basis), (3) rape (includes all sexual assaults, modifies evidentiary requirements and redefines statutory rape), (4) failure to appear or testify (adds new defenses), (5) riot (narrows applicability), and (6) marijuana possession (decriminalizes possession of small amounts and reduces penalties for possessing larger quantities). Repeals provisions defining certain crimes including those relative to registration of Communists and communicating with a foreign country for the purpose of influencing policy. Directs that, except as otherwise specifically provided, a defendant who has been found guilty of an offense described in any Federal statute be sentenced in accordance with this Act. Authorizes a sentencing court to (1) order a presentence study of a defendant, either before or after receipt of the presentence report and commit the defendant to the custody of the Bureau of Prisons pending receipt of such a study or (3) order a presentence psychiatric examination of a defendant. Specifies factors to be considered by a sentencing court, including: (1) the nature and circumstances of the offense and the history and characteristics of the defendant; (2) the need for the sentence imposed to deter similar conduct, protect the public, or provide the defendant needed training; and (3) the applicable sentencing range set forth in guidelines promulgated by the United States Sentencing Commission (established in title II of this Act). Authorizes a court to order a person found guilty of deceptive practices to notify interested persons of the conviction. Empower a court to order a guilty defendant to make restriction to a victim of the offense. Authorizes imposition of a term of probation, unless such sentence is specifically prohibited, with respect to all but the most serious class of felonies. Lists permissable terms of probation for each category of offenses. Requires as a mandatory condition of probation that a defendant not commit another crime. Enumerates discretionary conditions of probation. Sets forth provisions relative to the running of a term of probation and revocation of probation. Authorizes imposition of a fine upon any person found guilty of an offense. Sets limits on the amount of a fine for each category of offenses. Prescribes higher maximums for organizational than for individual defendants. Permits as an alternative maximum fine twice the gain derived or twice the loss caused by an offense. Directs the court, in determining the amount of a fine and the method and fine for its payment, to consider the defendants' financial status. Prohibits the court from imposing a term of imprisonment as an alternative to payment of a fine. Details procedures for the modification or remission of a fine. Authorizes the imposition of a term of imprisonment upon an individual found guilty of an offense. Specifies maximum terms for each category of offense. Empowers a court to designate a term of parole ineligibility up to nine-tenths of the sentence imposed. Lists factors to be considered in setting or modifying a term of imprisonment or parole ineligibility. Prescribes guidelines relative to concurrent and consecutive terms. Designates which Federal agency is to have primary responsibility for detecting and investigating the commission of each criminal violation under this Act. Defines the law enforcement authority, including authority to arrest and execute process, of certain officials and employees of the following departments and agencies: (1) Federal Bureau of Investigation, (2) Drug Enforcement Administration, (3) Department of the Treasury, (4) United States Postal Service, (5) United States Marshals Service, (6) United States Probation Service, (7) Bureau of Prisons, (8) Immigration and Naturalization Service, and (9) Department of the Interior. Revises provisions relative to interception of communications for law enforcement purposes. Permits interception of communications with respect to certain crimes not presently covered, such as criminal solicitation of specified offenses and aircraft hijacking. Restricts interception of communications without a court order in emergency situations to offenses involving treason, sabotage, espionage, or a risk of death, rather than to conspiracies involving national security or organized crime. Amends provisions regarding extradition. Repeals provisions relating to extradition of persons fleeing the United States to countries under the control of the United States and to extradition of persons fleeing to the United States from such countries. Prohibits extradition of a person convicted in absentia unless assurances are made that proceedings will be reopened or unless the person fled after having been present when his trial commenced. Details new procedures for the arrest and detention of persons who have committed extraditable offenses. States that extraditability shall be found in an appropriate hearing only upon proof of certain facts, including (1) an applicable treaty covering the offense involved is in effect, (2) the pending criminal charge against the person sought, or the prosecution for the offense of which he was convicted, was brought within any applicable statute of limitations, and (3) probable cause that the person sought and the person arrested are identical and that the person sought has committed or has been convicted of the alleged offense. Permits hearsay to be admitted in extradition hearings. Prescribes standards and procedures for waiver of extradition hearings and for appeal of a judgment issued in such a hearing. Expands the criminal jurisdiction of United States magistrates to authorize trial of all misdemeanors by such officers. Restricts the election of defendant to be tried by a district court rather than by a magistrate to misdemeanors punishable by more than six months imprisonment. Repeals provisions relative to additional bail and demonstration pretrial services agencies. Permits Federal prosecution of a juvenile charged with a Federal felony if such prosecution is in the interest of justice, even though State jurisdiction exists and the appropriate State has adequate juvenile services. Specifies guidelines for (1) surrender to State authorities of persons age 18-21 who are arrested and charged with a Federal offense and (2) pretrial release of juveniles. Increases the time which a juvenile may be detained prior to trial. Authorizes, where in the interest of justice, prosecution as an adult of a juvenile under 16 years of age who is charged with murder. Allows a victim of juvenile delinquency to obtain information regarding final disposition of any action taken as a result of the incident. Revises procedures for determining mental competency to stand trial. Sets limits on the time a person deemed incompetent may be confined. Requires that a person deemed incompetent be released if, after appropriate time limits, he still is incompetent to stand trial, has no prospect of becoming competent, but does not, by clear and convincing evidence, pose a substantial risk to others of serious bodily or property damage. Sets the same standard for hospitalization of persons acquitted by reason of insanity and of mentally ill prisoners due for release as that for persons incompetent to stand trial who have no prospect to attain capacity to do so in the foreseeable future. Directs that psychiatric examinations required under this Act be conducted by at least two psychiatrists or clinical psychologists. Lists guidelines for psychiatric and hospital reports. Permits, unless contrary to a plea agreement or inconsistent with United States Sentencing Commission policy statements, a defendant to appeal a sentence greater than the maximum allowed under applicable Sentencing Commission guidelines and the Government to appeal a sentence less than the applicable minimum. Sets forth standards and procedures for appellate court review. Details special probation and expungement procedures for first offense drug possessors. Designates as eligible for parole any prisoner (1) who is sentenced to a term of six months or longer and (2) who has served the term of parole eligibility imposed by the sentencing court or six months, whichever occurs later. Directs the United States Parole Commission to grant parole to an eligible prisoner if, having regard for guidelines and pertinent policy statements of the United States Sentencing Commission concerning parole, it determines (1) release at that time is consistent with the factors that led to imposition of the particular sentence, (2) there is no undue risk of failure to conform to the conditions of parole warranted under the circumstances, and (3) release, in light of the prisoner's conduct during incarceration, would not have a substantially adverse effect on institutional discipline. Directs the Bureau of Prisons to conduct a complete study of every prisoner who is due to become eligible for parole. Entitles a prisoner who is eligible for parole to an interview in accordance with specified procedures. Sets forth ranges for terms of parole according to categories of offense. Directs the Parole Commission to set conditions of parole, taking into consideration any guidelines or statements of the Sentencing Commission, the circumstances of the offense, the history of the parolee, the need to protect the public from further crimes of the parolee, and the need of the parolee for educational, medical, and other services. Requires as a mandatory condition that the parolee not commit another crime. Details procedures for revocation of parole and appeal of Parole Commission decisions. Increases the number of crimes with respect to which proceeds, instrumentalities, and other property may be forfeited. Prescribes forfeiture procedures. Empowers the Attorney General to bring civil actions to prevent and restrain racketeering offenses and to enjoin a practice that constitutes or could constitute a fraudulent scheme or consumer fraud. Establishes in the Treasury a Victim Compensation Fund from which victims of Federal crimes against the person or their surviving dependents may be compensated upon filing a claim with the United States Victim Compensation Board. Conditions compensation upon the offense having been reported to a law enforcement officer within 72 hours, the claim being filed within one year of the offense, and the claimant sustaining a certain minimum loss. Limits compensation to $50,000 per victim per offense. Reduces compensation by amounts received from certain other sources. Excludes from the recodification numerous provisions presently included in Title 18, among them the provisions of the Speedy Trial Act. Title II: Miscellaneous Amendments - Reenacts specified sections of the Organized Crime Control Act of 1970 and of the Gun Control Act of 1968 which are not included in Title 18 of the United States Code as recodified by this Act as parts of those respective Acts. Provides for punishment of persons violating those sections through the sentencing provisions of Title 18. Revises the oath which must be submitted by an absentee buyer seeking to purchase a firearm from a licensed importer, manufacturer, or dealer. Adds a new rule on burdens of proof to the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure which sets forth standards relative to (1) proof of offenses, defenses, affirmative defenses, and jurisdiction and (2) presumptions and prima facie evidence. Reenacts, with certain revisions, provisions regarding jurisdiction over offenses committed in Indian country which are not included in the recodification. Confers jurisdiction on Kansas and New York with regard to offenses committed by or against Indians on Indian reservations. Establishes a United States Sentencing Commission as an independent Commission in the judicial branch. Designates as the primary duty of the Commission promulgation of (1) guidelines setting forth ranges of sentences to be used by sentencing courts in accordance with the provisions of this Act and (2) general policy statements regarding application of the guidelines and other aspects of sentencing. Directs the Commission to develop, taking into consideration enumerated factors, categories of offenses and defendants for use in creating its sentencing guidelines. Reenacts certain provisions deleted from Title 18 by this Act regarding gathering and disclosing national defense or classified information as parts of the Subversive Activities Control Act of 1950 and the Espionage and Sabotage Act of 1954. Retains the criminal penalties specified in those sections and stipulates that sections of Title 18 on culpable states of mind shall not apply to such provisions. Title III: General Provisions - States that any holding that a provision or application of a provision of this Act is invalid shall not affect the validity of other provisions or applications of a provision. Continues the Bureau of Prisons and the Federal Prison Industries, which were created under sections of Title 18 deleted by this Act, under Title 28 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure). Sets as the effective date of this Act the first day of the calendar month first beginning 24 months after enactment, with the exceptions of sections establishing the United States Sentencing Commission which are to take effect upon enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1977
Authorizes the Attorney General to institute a civil action for or in the name of the United States in an appropriate district court whenever he has reasonable cause to believe that a State or its agents are subjecting persons involuntarily confined in any correctional facility, juvenile correction center, mental hospital, nursing home, or facility for the chronically ill, retarded, or physically handicapped to conditions which deprive such persons of their Federal Constitutional or Statutory rights. Permits the Attorney General to intervene in any action of public importance commenced in a Federal court in which relief is sought from conditions allegedly depriving involuntarily confined persons in State institutions of their Federal rights.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1977
Hospital Cost Containment Act - Title I: Transitional Hospital Cost Constraint Provisions - States that it is the purpose of the program established by this title to constrain the rate of increases in total acute care hospital inpatient costs. States that the increase in total revenue which a hospital may receive in any accounting year in the form of: (1) reimbursement paid under the Medicare and Medicaid programs, and by cost payers for inpatient services; and (2) charges imposed upon other persons for inpatient services, may not, on a per admission basis, exceed the average inpatient reimbursement due or inpatient charges imposed per inpatient admission in the base period by more than the percentage allowed under this Act. Sets forth formulas by which the limits of the increase in total revenue may be computed. Bases the "inpatient hospital revenue increase limit" on increases in the gross national product deflator. Defines terms used in this Act. Excepts from such limits hospitals which are experiencing substantially higher costs as a result of extraordinary changes in patient loads or major changes in facilities and services. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare to promulgate the inpatient hospital revenue increase limit applicable during a twelve month period beginning on October 1 of each year. Directs the Secretary to promulgate a formula for adjusting such revenue increase limit based on the number of admissions during a 12-month accounting period. Authorizes the Secretary to grant exceptions to the revenue increase limit during periods in which the excepted hospitals meet specified criteria. Permits any hospital which is dissatisfied with the decision of the Secretary to grant or not to grant an exception if the amount in controversy is $25,000 or more, to obtain a hearing before the Provider Reimbursement Review Board established by the Social Security Act. Directs the Secretary to appoint five additional members to such Board for the purpose of reviewing appeals under this title. Prohibits, under the Social Security Act, the payment of hospital costs in excess of the limits established pursuant to this Act. Prohibits the receipt by any hospital, or payment by any cost payer for inpatient hospital services on a cost basis in excess of applicable limits. Subjects hospitals or cost payers in violation of these prohibitions to: (1) a Federal excise tax established by this Act; (2) exclusion from participation in any of the programs established under the Medicaid, Medicare or Maternal and Child Health Services programs of the Social Security Act. Allows the Secretary to exclude from the cost containment provisions: (1) hospitals meeting specified criteria, provided the Governor of the State in which such hospital is located requests such exclusion; and (2) hospitals engaged in certain experiments or demonstrations authorized by the Social Security Act. Requires every hospital to submit semiannually to the appropriate health systems agency its average semiprivate room rate and the charges for the ten other representative services most important for purposes of comparing hospitals. Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1959 to impose an excise tax on payments received for inpatient hospital services in excess of the inpatient hospital revenue increase limit. Title II: Limitation on Hospital Capital Expenditures - Amends the Public Health Service Act to require the Secretary to promulgate: (1) an annual hospital capital expenditures limit; (2) a national ceiling for the supply of hospital beds; and (3) a national standard for the rate if occupancy of hospital beds. Sets forth the criteria to be considered by State health planning agencies when considering applications for certificates of needs submitted by health facilities. States that the aggregate of capital expenditures in a State under certificates of need may not exceed the hospital capital expenditures limit for the State for the year as established by the Secretary.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1977
Child Health Assessment Act - Amends Title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require State plans for the administration of such Title to include a provision for the early periodic screening of physical and mental defects in children under the age of six who are members of families eligible for Aid to Families with Dependent Children. Establishes a Child Health Assessment Program under Medicaid. Requires State Medicaid plans to include the provision of child health assessments and primary care to specified individuals under the age of 21. Directs that child health assessments be provided only by a health care provider who enters into an agreement with the State agency responsible for the administration of the Medicaid plan to: (1) provide to specified individuals periodic health assessments; (2) provide a minimum range of diagnostic and treatment services; (3) be readily accessible on an ongoing basis; and (4) make required reports to the State to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. Allows an individual who has received a health assessment to remain eligible for all care and services provided under the State plan for six months after such individual's family has become ineligible for Medicaid or Aid to Families with Dependent Children. Requires State medicaid plans to provide that the State will encourage participation by physicians and health care centers in the child assessment program and that the State will assure the physicians and health care centers of the availability of appropriate support services. Provides for the funding of the program out of the sums appropriated for State medicaid programs. Allows the Secretary to reduce, by 20 percent, a State's Medicaid funds if the State does not comply with standards promulgated for the Child Health Assessment Program. Allows the Secretary to make additional payments to States that have met the criteria for good performance of the State's Child Health Assessment Program. Sets forth the criteria for determining good performance under such program. Repeals previous provision of the Social Security Act relating to appropriations for Child Health Care Assessment programs.
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1977
African Development Foundation Act - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to establish as a nonprofit corporation the African Development Foundation. Authorizes the Foundation to make grants, loans, and loan guarantees to any African private or public group, association, or other entity for: (1) building local institutions and developing innovative relationships with intermediary organizations; (2) evaluating the transferability of projects; (3) supporting African research and facilitating the transfer of development resources, expertise, and knowledge within Africa; and (4) disseminating to the American public and United States development institutions insights gained through African development Vests the management of the Foundation in a Board of Directors composed of seven members appointed by the President. Directs the establishment of a Council composed of individuals selected by the Board, including foreign nationals, who are knowledgeable about development activities in Africa. Authorizes the appropriation of $25,000,000 to carry out this Act for the period covered by fiscal years 1978-80.
United States · United States Congress · 20 April 1977
Amends the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 to extend until November 28, 1977, the deadline for transmittal of the United States Commission on Civil Rights report on unreasonable discrimination based on age in Federally funded programs. Authorizes the Commission to provide technical assistance regarding its findings and recommendations to Congress, the President, and heads of executive departments and agencies.
United States · United States Congress · 20 April 1977
Bilingual Courts Act - Requires that proceedings in U.S. district courts, in criminal and civil actions, be conducted bilingually where it is determined that a party to or a witness in, such proceedings does not understand the English language. Directs the Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts to determine and supply the personnel and facilities necessary to conduct such proceedings.
United States · United States Congress · 20 April 1977
Career Education Implementation Incentive Act - Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums for each of the fiscal years 1979 through 1983 for the purpose of providing Federal incentives to State and local educational agencies and institutions to develop and implement career education programs for individuals of all ages. Directs the Commissioner of Education to reserve certain funds appropriated under this Act to (1) support model programs and other special or demonstration projects and (2) allocate among specified territories of the United States. Sets forth a formula for the distribution of funds to each State. Requires an annual application containing specified assurances, to be submitted by each State desiring to receive funds under this Act. Directs each State to file with the Commissioner a State plan for the utilization of funds received under this Act. Sets for the factors each such plan must contain. Specifies the activities which may be funded by a State with money received under this Act including (1) providing State leadership career education through institutes, training programs, studies, and conferences; and (2) making grants to local educational agencies and to public and private nonprofit institutions of postsecondary education for the purpose of (a) improving career awareness, (b) developing and implementing career guidance services, (c) training of local career education coordinators and (d) establishing and operating career education resource centers. Directs that State grants to local educational agencies and institutions be made in as equitable a manner as possible, having due regard for the special needs of agencies and institutions serving large numbers of disadvantaged students. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants directly to State and local educational agencies and institutions for the purpose of developing career education model programs. Directs the Commissioner to provide for (1) the maintenance and dissemination of career information; (2) the continuous analysis of career trends and options; (3) the publication of periodic reports containing career education information; and (4) the conduct of seminars, workshops, and career information sessions. Directs the Commissioner, to the extent practicable, to (1) utilize existing offices and research capabilities; (2) coordinate offices, centers and research facilities in carrying out his information responsibilities; and (3) use the career information capabilities of the education division. Sets forth the procedure and requirements to be followed by the Commissioner and each State when granting or receiving funds under this Act. Sets forth the duties and responsibilities under this Act of (1) The Office of Career Education; (2) The National Advisory Council on Career Education and (3) The National Institute of Education. Revises The National Advisory Council on Career Education membership requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1977
Legal Services Corporation Act Amendments - Amends the Legal Services Corporation Act to require that at least three persons appointed to fill vacancies occurring between January 1, 1977, and July 30, 1978, on the Board of Directors of the Legal Services Corporation be person eligible to be clients thereunder. Requires that at least one-third of the governing body of an organization formed solely for the purpose of providing legal assistance under such Act be composed of eligible clients. Subjects meetings of the Board of Directors, of executive committees thereof, and of any advisory council established under the Legal Services Corporation Act to Government in the Sunshine Act provisions relative to open meetings. Empowers the Corporation to undertake research and assistance activities with respect to the delivery of legal services by means of contract or grant. Directs that a court provide compensation for an attorney employed by a recipient organization and appointed to provide legal assistance, unless such appointment is made pursuant to a statute or practice applied generally to attorneys practicing before the court. Repeals restrictions on political activities unrelated to legal assistance with respect to attorneys receiving more than one-half their professional income from an organization established for the sole purpose of providing assistance under the Legal Services Corporation Act. Revises guidelines regarding eligibility for, and priorities relative to, such assistance. Revises the limitations on the use of funds made available by the Corporation to (1) permit the provision of legal assistance with respect to criminal matters where a person is charged with an offense involving hunting, fishing, trapping, or gathering fruit of the land, a defense asserted involves rights arising from an Indian treaty, or a person is charged with a misdemeanor or lesser offense in an Indian tribal court; (2) eliminate prohibitions against providing legal assistance to un-emancipated persons less than 18 years of age and in connection with selective service violations, and (3) revise prohibitions relative to formation of associations and military offenses. Authorizes the Corporation to make grants or enter into contracts to pay all or part of the cost of developing and/or operating model projects to expand or improve the delivery of legal services to segments of the population of eligible clients with special legal problems or special difficulties of access to legal services. Authorizes the appointment of independent hearing examiners to preside over hearings to suspend or terminate assistance under the Legal Services Corporation Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1977
Amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to authorize the Commissioner of the Administration on Aging to make grants to States for the purposes of (1) supporting a staff person within the State agency responsible for the delivery of legal services to the elderly, and (2) supporting direct legal services by providing funds to area agencies. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to or contract with national resource centers to support organizations providing legal services to the elderly and provide legal advice to the elderly.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1977
Home-Delivered Meals for the Elderly Act - Amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to establish a program for the elderly which would provide one hot, balanced, home- delivered meal five days a week. Provides for a needs assessment of individuals receiving aid under such program. Directs the Commissioner of the Administration on Aging to develop minimum efficiency standards for furnishing home-delivered meal services. Limits the amount that may be spent on administration of a State plan for nutrition programs for the elderly to five percent of the funds allotted.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Consumer Protection Act - Establishes as an independent agency in the executive branch the Agency for Consumer Advocacy. Directs the Administrator of the Agency to submit an annual report to the Congress and the President on the Agency's activities and court actions affecting the interests of consumers. Directs the Agency to advise the Congress and the President on matters affecting the interests of consumers and to protect and promote the interests of the people of the United States as consumers of goods and services. Enumerates the functions of the Administrator including the following: (1) the representation of the interests of consumers before Federal agencies and courts; (2) the conduct and support of research, studies, and testing; (3) the submission of recommendations annually to the Congress and the President on measures to improve the operation of the Federal Government in the protection and promotion of the interests of consumers; and (4) the publication of material developed in carrying out this Act to inform consumers of matters of interest to them. States that whenever the Administrator determines that the result of any Federal agency proceeding may substantially affect an interest of consumers, he may as of right intervene as a party or otherwise participate for the purpose of representing an interest of consumers. Provides that whenever the Administrator receives any complaint which discloses: (1) an apparent violation of law relating to an interest of consumers; or (2) a commercial, trade, or other practice which is detrimental to an interest of consumers, he shall transmit such complaint to any Federal, State, of local agency which has the authority to enforce any relevant law or to take appropriate action. Directs the Administrator to maintain a public document room containing, for public inspection and copying, an up-to-date listing of all consumer complaints of any significance which the Agency has received, as arranged in meaningful and useful categories, together with annotations of actions taken in response thereto. Authorizes the Administrator to conduct studies, and to obtain data and information from persons engaged in a trade, business, or industry which substantially affects interstate commerce and whose activities he determines may substantially affect an interest of consumers. Stipulates that the Administrator shall not have the power to require the production or disclosure of any data or other information under this Act from any small business. Authorizes and directs each Federal agency, upon written request by the Administrator, to furnish access to all documents which the Administrator deems necessary for the performance of his functions. Sets forth limitations on the disclosure of any information obtained pursuant to any authority conferred by this Act. Prohibits sex discrimination in any program or activity carried on or receiving Federal assistance under the Act. Directs the President to submit to Congress a reorganization plan which provides for the transfer to the Agency of those consumer-related programs of Federal agencies which can be performed with greater efficiency by the Administrator under the authority contained in this Act. Requires Federal agencies to issue standards governing public participation in agency proceedings. Requires each Federal agency, which is authorized to promulgate rules, to transmit to the Comptroller General a cost-benefit assessment statement with respect to any rules which are likely to have a substantial economic impact. Requires the President to issue regulations providing guidelines for Federal agencies as to the nature and content of such cost and benefit assessment statements. Sets forth the procedure by which such regulations shall become law.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Amends the Small Business Act to empower the Small Business Administration (SBA) to make loans repayable in not more than three years to small business concerns which have been adversely affected by an extraordinary, local economic or weather condition. Permits the SBA to allow the deferral of repayment of such loans for a period not to exceed one year where it determines such action would be appropriate. Permits the SBA to assume or suspend, for a period not to exceed five years, any small business concern's obligation only if the small business concern would otherwise become insolvent or remain insolvent or if, with the assumption or suspension, the small business concern would become or remain a viable business entity. Sets forth the acceptable terms of payment for such loans.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Health Protection Tax Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to substitute a health protection tax on cigarettes manufactured in or imported into the United States for the present tax. Sets forth graduated tax rates based on the tar and nicotine content of each cigarette. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to determine the tar and nicotine content of each brand of cigarettes manufactured in or imported into the United States, and to certify these findings to the Secretary of the Treasury.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Social Security Cost-of-Living Improvement Act - Requires an annual cost-of-living increase in Federal old-age, survivors, and disability benefits under the Social Security Act. Defines the base periods from which the need for such increases shall be determined. Directs the Secretary of Labor, in consultation with the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, to develop a special Consumer Price Index for the elderly.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1977
Prohibits any business dedication, under the Internal Revenue Code, relating to expenses paid or incurred for the transportation of any person by supersonic or nonsupersonic commercial aircraft in excess of an amount which is equal to the retail price of the lowest priced, generally available, unrestricted fare, tariff, or ticket for the transportation of such person by nonsupersonic commercial aircraft to the same destination at the same approximate time of day and at the same time of year. Prohibits the obligation of appropriated funds for the transportation of officers and employees of the United States by commercial aircraft in excess of the amount specified in the allowed business deduction.
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1977
Expresses the sense of Congress that the United States Postal Services should issue, during 1977, a commemorative stamp honoring Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton.
United States · United States Congress · 1 April 1977
Recombinant DNA Regulation Act - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to promulgate standards applicable to the production or possession of recombinant DNA. Requires the issuance of final standards within one year of the enactment of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to issue or renew a license for a facility to permit the production or possession of recombinant DNA at that facility only if the facility complies with the standards promulgated under this Act and such ancillary conditions as he may prescribe. States that such license shall be valid for up to three years. Allows the Secretary to permit an appropriate State, local agency, or a licensing or accrediting body to issue and renew such licenses. Authorizes the Secretary to revoke, suspend, or limit a license if he finds that a facility has violated or aided and abetted in the violation of any requirement established under this Act. Directs the Secretary to register any project involving recombinant DNA. Authorizes individuals designated by the Secretary to inspect any facility at which the inspector has reasonable grounds to believe that recombinant DNA is present or is being produced. Requires the inspector after completion of the inspection, to report his findings in writing to the individual in charge of the facility. Requires each facility at which recombinant DNA is produced or located to submit to the Secretary such reports concerning recombinant DNA at that facility as the Secretary may prescribe. Prohibits, with specified exceptions, any State or political subdivision thereof from establishing or continuing any requirement with respect to recombinant DNA activities that is different from any requirement applicable under this Act. Prohibits an employer from discriminating against any employee with respect to the employee's compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment because the employee assisted or is about to participate in any manner in a proceeding to carry out the purposes of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to investigate employee complaints of discrimination. Requires the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to consult with the Administrators of other agencies to avoid duplication of requirements and about other matters which may be of mutual interest. Establishes a civil penalty of up to $5,000 for a violation of this Act. Establishes a penalty for willful or knowing violation of this Act of a fine of up to $5,000 or imprisonment of up to one year, or both. Punishes by a fine of up to $5,000 or imprisonment for not more than one year a willful violation of any provision of this Act. Allows the Secretary to commence a civil action in an appropriate district court for the seizure or destruction of hazardous recombinant DNA or for other appropriate relief to prevent its production, movement, or spread.
United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1977
Social Security Administration Act - Title I: Social Security Administration - Amends Title VII (Administration) of the Social Security Act to establish an independent agency of the Executive branch of the Government, a Social Security Administration, headed by a Board appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Declares that it shall be the duty of the Administration to administer the programs established by titles II (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance), XVI (Supplemental Security Income) and XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, and to discharge the duties and responsibilities imposed on the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare in connection with the administration of the program established by title IV of the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969. States that the Administration shall also have the duty of studying and making recommendations as to the most effective methods of providing economic security through social insurance, and as to legislation and matters of administrative policy. Provides for the appointment of an Executive Director and a General Counsel of the Administration. Makes the Administration responsible for administering the old age, survivors, and disability insurance program, medicare, supplemental security income, and the black lung benefit program under the Coal Mine Health and Safety Act. Prohibits the mailing of announcements with Social Security and SSI checks which make reference by name, title, or signature to any officer of the United States. Transfers to the Social Security Administration: (1) all functions carried out by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare with respect to the administration of programs and activities the administration of which is vested in such administration by reason of this Act; and (2) all personnel, assets, liabilities, contracts, property, and records which the Director of the Office of Management and Budget determines to be employed, held or used by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare primarily in connection with the functions, activities, and programs which, by reason of this Act are vested in or become the responsibility of the Administration. Abolishes the position of Commissioner of Social Security. Title II: Miscellaneous and Conforming Amendments - Makes technical and conforming amendments to the Social Security Act, the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act, the Budget and Accounting Act, and the Executive Schedules of the United States Code.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1977
Amends the surplus commodities provision of the Older Americans Act of 1965 to require the Secretary of Agriculture to donate surplus commodities to recipients of grants and contracts at a rate of at least 30 cents per meal during the fiscal year ending September 30, 1978. Allows a State to elect to receive cash payments in lieu of donated foods, with regard to programs for older Americans. Stipulates that payments of such funds to States may only be used by the States to purchase food for nutrition projects.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1977
Rural Housing Act - Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to extend the availability of refinancing of indebtedness for rural housing assistance to elderly or handicapped families. Defines elderly or handicapped families for purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a system of escrow accounts to enable borrowers to make periodic payments for taxes, insurance, and other necessary expenses. Authorizes and directs the Secretary to conduct specified programs of research, study and analysis of rural housing. Authorizes the Secretary to make expenditures from the Rural Housing Insurance Fund in order to correct construction defects or to pay claims of the owner of property arising from such defects. Empowers the Secretary to foreclose on mortgages only if the borrower has been given prior notice. Makes changes with respect to the Secretary's power to make rules and regulations. Authorizes increases in assistance to specified rural housing programs for fiscal years 1978 and 1979. Extends rural housing loans for elderly and handicapped families to include congregate housing facilities for families who require some supervision and central services. Requires that at least 60 percent of insured rural housing loans benefit persons of low income. Makes changes in the guaranteed housing loan program and the homeownership subsidy for low and moderate income persons. Makes it mandatory for the Secretary to provide rural rental assistance. Creates the position of Assistant Secretary for Equal Opportunity in the Department of Agriculture. Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to increase the funds available for grants for water and waste facilities. Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to withhold assistance for specified programs from any otherwise eligible borrower who fails to incorporate energy conservation features into any structure commenced by such borrower after January 1, 1978.
United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1977
Romania Earthquake Relief and Rehabilitation Act - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1977 for relief and rehabilitation assistance to the victims of recent earthquakes in Romania. Authorizes the President to furnish such assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1977
Declares it the sense of the Senate that the President of the United States (1) should propose an immediate suspension of underground nuclear explosions to remain in effect so long as the Soviet Union abstains from conducting underground explosions, and (2) should set forth promptly a new proposal to the Government of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics and other nations for a permanent treaty to ban all nuclear explosions.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1977
Universal Voter Registration Act - Establishes the positions of Administrator and Assistant Administrator of Voter Registration within the Federal Election Commission. Specifies the duties of the Administrator, including (1) establishing and administering a voter registration program in accordance with this Act; (2) providing for the collection, analysis, and publication of voter registration information in coordination work the Secretary of Commerce; and (3) providing information and technical assistance to State and local officials concerning voter registration. Requires each State and local government to permit any individual who is eligible under applicable State and Federal law to register to vote in any Federal election to register on the date of a Federal election at the appropriate polling place. States that any individual so registering shall, if required by State or local authorities, establish his identity by (1) executing an affidavit containing certain information and (2) submitting either an affidavit executed by a person who is registered to vote at the polling place involved and is present at such polling place with the individual seeking registration or one of any forms of identification approved by the Commission. Directs the Commission to make grants for approved voter registration outreach programs to States which comply with the election day registration requirements of this Act. Conditions the amount of such grants on whether a State has a similar election day registration program in effect with respect to State and local elections. Stipulates that a registration outreach program may include projects relating to registration by mail, registration through the use of mobile units, or bilingual registration, and those projects otherwise designed to improve voter registration methods and procedures. Lists the purposes for which grant funds may be used. Sets forth criminal penalties for any person who knowingly and willfully (1) registers, or attempts to register, to vote under this Act for the purpose of voting more than once in any Federal election; (2) conspires with any person for the purpose of enabling such person to make false registration to vote in a Federal election under this Act or for the purpose of enabling or encouraging any individual to make such false registration to vote in a Federal election; or (3) falsifies any information with respect to the name, residence, or age of such person, or any other information for the purpose of establishing eligibility to register to vote in a Federal election under this Act. Directs the Commission to institute actions to prevent any violation of this Act. Requires Federal courts to expedite consideration of actions involving a violation of, or a constitutional challenge to, any provision of this Act. Prohibits commercial use of any list compiled by a State or local government of individuals registered to vote in a Federal election.
United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1977
Juvenile Justice Amendments - Amends administrative provisions of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 to designate the Assistant Administrator, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, of the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration as such Office's chief executive officer, subject to only the general policy direction of the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration. Sets forth provisions relative to the authority of the Assistant Administrator. Increases to ten the number of individuals authorized to be appointed in positions in the Office at levels above GS-15. Revises deadlines for submission of the annual analysis of and annual plan for delinquency programs. Empowers the Assistant Administrator to delegate authority to make regulations. Designates the Director of the Office of Drug Abuse Policy, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, and the Commissioner of the Office of Education as members of the Coordinating Council on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. Reduces from six to four the minimum number of times which the Coordinating Council must meet annually. Requires that at least 7 of the 21 members of the National Advisory Committee for Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention be under age 22 at time of appointment, a minimum of three of whom shall have been under the jurisdiction of the juvenile justice system. Sets the quorum of the Committee at 11 members. Makes mandatory the appointment of a subcommittee to advise the Assistant Administrator on particular functions of the Office. Revises provisions regarding other subcommittees. Authorizes the Advisory Committee to delegate its functions by means of grants and contracts. Empowers the committee to conduct programs to assist public or private citizen groups on juvenile delinquency. Requires that at least one percent of the funds appropriated for purposes of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act be used for the Advisory Committee. Stipulates that formula grants to State and local governments' juvenile justice related activities shall cover 90 percent of the approved cost of any assisted programs or activities. Waives the non-Federal matching share requirement for private nonprofit organizations which are conducting activities pursuant to State or local government contracts or grants. Directs that at least 10 percent of the minimum annual allotment of formula grants to a State be used to assist the State juvenile justice advisory group established pursuant to the State juvenile delinquency plan. Revises guidelines for the composition of such advisory groups and delegates to them certain additional functions. Makes specified amendments in the standards which must be included in a State juvenile justice plan. States that failure to comply within two years with the requirement that juveniles committing noncriminal offenses be placed in shelter facilities rather than in correctional institutions shall result in termination of formula grants and certain other funds unless the Administrator finds substantial compliance and a commitment to achieve full compliance. Eliminates provisions making available the formula grant allotment of a State whose juvenile justice plan fails to comply with mandatory standards due to neglect to public and private agencies for special emphasis programs. Revises present, and specifies additional, purposes for which assistance may be extended under special emphasis prevention and treatment programs. Eliminates the limit on formula funds which may be used by a State to meet the matching share requirement of certain essential Federal juvenile delinquency programs. Authorizes an increase in the Federal share of the cost of juvenile delinquency programs in the case of Indian tribes which lack sufficient funds to meet the local share. Sets forth provisions for the reallocation of excess formula grant funds for special emphasis treatment and prevention programs. Repeals the responsibility of the Administrator of the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration to oversee administration of the National Institute for Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. Directs the Advisory Committee for the National Institute to assist States, local governments, and private organizations in the adoption at State and local levels of Standards for the administration of juvenile justice. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums for fiscal years 1977-82 to carry out certain provisions and programs of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act. Amends the Runaway Youth Act to expand the grant program thereunder to encompass the development of local facilities to meet the needs of all homeless youth. Prohibits a runaway house receiving assistance under such Act from disclosing statistical records profiling the parents and children which it serves to other than specified agencies unless the child involved, as well as his parent, consents. Revises monetary guidelines with respect to which grants and runaway houses are to be given priority. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums for the runaway house grant program for fiscal years 1977-1982.
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1977
Amends the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to specifically encompass pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions within the prohibition against sex discrimination in employment, including discrimination with respect to fringe benefit plans.
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1977
National Consumer Cooperative Bank Act - Title I: National Consumer Cooperative Bank - Establishes the National Consumer Cooperative Bank. States that the Bank shall (1) encourage the development of new and existing cooperatives eligible for its assistance by providing specialized credit and technical assistance; (2) maintain broad-based control of the Bank by its voting stockholders; (3) encourage broad-based ownership, control and active participation by members in eligible cooperatives; (4) assure that the net savings from its operations and the operations of borrowers from the Bank are made available or accounted for to the stockholders or members of the cooperative organization; and (5) assist in improving the quality and availability of goods and service to consumers. Authorizes the creation of no less than four nor more than 12 corporate regional banks. States that the Bank shall have the power to make and service loans, commitments for credit, guarantees, furnish financially related services, technical assistance, and issue obligations. Enumerates additional powers necessary to carry out its powers and duties under this Act. Requires the Bank to hold an annual meeting of stockholders. Permits the Bank to obtain funds through the public or private sale of its bonds, debentures, notes, and other evidences of indebtedness. Authorizes the Bank to make loans to eligible organizations which shall be repayable in not more than 40 years. States that the objective of the Bank shall be to provide the type of credit needed by eligible borrowers, at the lowest reasonable cost on a sound business basis, taking into account the cost of money to the Bank. Defines "eligible cooperatives" for purposes of assistance under this title. Title II: Self-Help Development Fund - Establishes in the Treasury a Consumer Cooperative Self-Help Development Fund. Permits the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration to make a capital investment advance out of the Fund to any eligible cooperative if the Administration determines that the applicants' initial or supplemental capital requirements exceed its ability to obtain a Title I Loan from the Bank or other sources, and the membership of the applicant consists substantially of low-income persons. Title III: Cooperative Technical Assistance - Directs the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration to make available information and services concerning the organization or reorganization of cooperatives to best achieve the objectives of this Act and to best provide the means through which various types of goods, services, and facilities can be made available to members and patrons. States that such assistance may include investigations, surveys, and director and management training and assistance. Authorizes appropriations to the Administration of sums necessary for the administration of this title. Title IV: The Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration and General Provisions - Establishes the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration. Directs the Administration to assure that the objectives of this Act are carried out. States that until the stock of the Bank held by the United States has been fully retired the Bank shall be exempt from any form of taxation. Requires the Administration and the Board to report annually to the appropriate committees of Congress on the activities of the Administration and on the Bank's capital, operations, financial condition, the self-help development fund, and to make recommendations for legislation to improve its services.
United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1977
Department of Education Act - Establishes an executive department to be known as the Department of Education to be administered by a Secretary of Education. States that the principal function of such Department is to promote the cause and advancement of education throughout the United States. Transfers to the Secretary specified functions of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare and the Commissioner of Education, and various educational responsibilities of other Federal agencies and instrumentalities. Creates the Federal Interagency Committee on Education and the National Advisory Commission on Education. Redesignates the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, and the Secretary of such Department, as the Department of Health and Welfare, and the Secretary of Health and Welfare.
United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1977
Declares that the United States should do all that is possible to assist Romania, site of a recent earthquake. Expresses the sympathy of the United States to the victims and their families.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1977
Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1936, to make Federal ship mortgage insurance available for obligations for fishing vessels which do not exceed 87 1/2 percent of the actual or depreciated cost of such vessels.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1977
Consumer Controversies Resolution Act - States that existing mechanisms for the resolution of controversies involving consumer goods and services are largely unavailable, inaccessible, ineffective, expensive, or unfair. Declares it to be the purpose of this Act to assure all consumers convenient access to consumer controversy resolution mechanisms which are expeditious, effective, and fair. Directs the Federal Trade Commission, in implementing the provisions of this Act: (1) to enter into or renew cooperative agreements with the States under which the Commission will provide financial assistance for the development, establishment, improvement, or maintenance of State systems for the resolution of controversies involving consumers, and (2) to take such other actions as are appropriate to fulfill the purposes of this Act. Directs the Commission to establish an Office of Consumer Redress. States that the Commission may enter into cooperative agreements with States for the provision of financial assistance to consumer controversy resolution systems upon submission by a State of a satisfactory State plan for the resolution of consumer controversies. Sets forth the requirements which a State plan must meet to be considered satisfactory. Directs the Commission to review such plans periodically. Specifies the purposes for which assistance funds provided to the States may be used, including: (1) compensation to personnel who assist consumers involved in consumer controversies; (2) the recruitment, training, and education of such personnel; (3) public education and publicity regarding the availability and proper use of consumer controversy resolution mechanisms; and (4) research and development of improved controversy resolution mechanisms. States that the Federal share of the estimated cost of a cooperative agreement shall not exceed 70 percent of the total cost of such agreement. Authorizes the Commission to award grants for research or demonstration projects consistent with the purposes of this Act. Requires each recipient of assistance under this Act to keep such records as the Federal Trade Commission shall prescribe. Directs the Commission to submit an annual report to the President and Congress. Authorizes to be appropriated not more than $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 7 March 1977
Public Financing of Senate Elections Act - Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to entitle candidates for the United States Senate, who agree to comply with certain recordkeeping requirements and spending limits, to payments in accordance with the terms of this Act. Conditions eligibility for funds with respect to primary and general elections upon receipt of contributions in specified minimum amounts. Sets forth formulas for the determination of the amount of money to which a candidate is entitled. Specifies maximum amounts which a candidate may expend in connection with primary and general elections and remain eligible for funds. Specifies a limit on the amount of personal and family funds a candidate may use. Provides for adjustments in spending limits on the basis of changes in prices. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to maintain a separate Senate Campaign Account in the Presidential Election Campaign Fund and to deposit in such account amounts available in the Fund after a determination that adequate sums are available for payments under the Presidential Election Campaign Fund Act. Sets forth guidelines for reducing payments under this Act if available funds are inadequate. Requires repayment of funds paid in excess of entitlement or used for other than campaign purposes. Requires candidates for the Senate who do not receive funds under this Act to report to the Federal Election Commission within 48 hours of spending or incurring obligations to spend a total sum in excess of the limit which would apply if the candidate had been receiving funds.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1977
Federal Program Information Act - Creates a Federal Program Information Center to establish and maintain a computerized program information system which is capable of identifying all existing Federal domestic assistance programs. Specifies the required contents of the data base of such system, including the identity, description, and eligibility requirements of each such assistance program. Requires the Director of the Center to publish an annual catalog containing all information on Federal domestic assistance programs that is in the data base of the system. States that information in such data base and the catalog prepared pursuant to this Act shall be made available to the public at a reasonable price.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1977
Central Arizona Indian Tribal Water Rights Settlement Act - Defines the term "Central Arizona Indian Tribes" as meaning the Ak Chin Indian Community, the Fort McDowell Mohave-Apache Community, the Gila River Indian Community, the Papago Tribe of Arizona, and the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. Title I: Water Resource Projects - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to undertake: (1) a ten-year program to acquire a firm surface water supply on behalf of the Ak Chin Indian Community; (2) a five-year program to acquire a firm surface water supply on behalf of the Fort McDowell Mohave-Apache Indian Community; (3) a ten-year program to acquire a firm surface water supply on behalf of the Gila River Indian Community; (4) a ten-year program to acquire a firm surface water supply on behalf of the Papago Tribe; and (5) a ten-year program to acquire a firm surface water supply on behalf of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. Sets forth the amounts of water which shall be made available to each tribe for various purposes and projects. Grants the Secretary authority to undertake projects designed to maximize the amounts of water available from underground sources and available water distribution systems. Authorizes appropriations for the construction of water resource project facilities and irrigation distribution systems of $32,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $28,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $28,000,000 for fiscal year 1979, and $8,000,000 during each of the next seven fiscal years. Authorizes appropriations for loans to the Central Arizona Tribes of $12,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $12,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $12,000,000 for fiscal year 1979, and $6,000,000 for each of the next seven fiscal years. Title II: Acquisition of Water - Authorizes the Secretary to acquire, by purchase, exchange, or eminent domain proceedings, such private lands and such State water rights as he deems appropriate for the purpose of providing water to the Central Arizona Tribes. Prohibits the acquisition of water rights belonging to any Indian tribe, band, group or community, or any individual Indian allottees. Permits the Secretary, in his discretion, to transfer to lands within the reservations of the Central Arizona Tribes any Federal water rights appurtenant to the public lands or to any lands within a Federal reservation under his jurisdiction which are surplus to the needs of such lands. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into contracts and to use facilities constructed in whole or in part with Federal funds to facilitate the delivery of water to reservations of the Central Arizona Tribes. States that the Secretary may spend up to $2,000,000 of the funds appropriated pursuant to this Act for the purpose of making grants to the Central Arizona Tribes to develop plans for efficient use of newly irrigated lands and to carry out training programs for Indian farmers. Authorizes appropriations for water acquisition costs of $38,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $36,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, $36,000,000 for fiscal year 1979 and $20,000,000 for each of the next seven fiscal years. Authorizes appropriation of sums necessary for delivery of water to the Central Arizona Tribes, for payments under contracts entered into by the Secretary, and for grants to the tribes. Title III: Settlement - Stipulates that the acquisition and delivery of water pursuant to this Act shall satisfy each tribe's present and future right to the use of surface water for farming purposes.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1977
Nuclear Non-Proliferation Act - Declares it United States policy: (1) to pursue the establishment of international controls of nuclear equipment material, and technology, (2) to enhance the reliability of the United States as a supplier of nuclear reactors and fuels, (3) to encourage ratification of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, (4) to aid other nations in identification and adaptation of appropriate energy production technology, and (5) to ensure that United States actions in international commerce conform to the aforementioned Treaty. Declares that the United States shall furnish a reliable supply of nuclear fuel to nations adhering to policies of non-proliferation of nuclear explosive devices. Directs the President to report to Congress on the establishment of international nuclear fuel services. Declares that the United States shall undertake initiatives to prevent the development of nuclear explosive devices and to encourage nuclear safeguards. Declares that the United States shall establish a World Energy Institute to promote the development of alternative energy resources. Declares that the United States shall seek to renegotiate agreements for cooperation to make them consistent with requirements of this Act. Declares that the United States shall establish a nuclear safeguards training program for foreign countries. Sets forth criteria for the negotiation and approval of agreements for cooperation and subsequent arrangements, under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954. Permits the distribution of special nuclear materials for laboratory or emergency purposes in specified quantities without licensing by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Revises prohibitions against the unauthorized production of special nuclear material. Grants the Commission approval authority over any re-transfer of United States supplied nuclear material or equipment. Makes it unlawful to transfer sensitive nuclear technology to any non-nuclear-weapon state. Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to revise nuclear export licensing procedures and criteria. Amends such Act to authorize the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to issue export licenses for items and substances that are intended for end-use in a nuclear facility or are especially significant for non-proliferation. Directs the President to review all governmental activities relating to the non-proliferation of nuclear explosive devices. Authorizes the Appropriation of $2,000,000 for contribution to the International Atomic Energy Agency for safeguards activities. Exempts military activities of nuclear weapon states from this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1977
Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972 to redefine the term "navigable waters" as it applies to regulation of discharges of oil and hazardous substances and to regulation of marine sanitation devices to include the belt of seas extending 197 nautical miles from the outer limit of the territorial seas. Stipulates that such boundary shall be reduced to a line equidistant between the United States and a foreign nation where such line of equidistance between the two countries is less than 200 miles. Authorizes the Attorney General to initiate class actions to recover private claims arising from discharges of oil and hazardous substances. Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to act as trustee of the natural resources of the navigable waters in recovering damages caused by oil or hazardous substances in accordance with prescribed criteria in assessing the amount of such damages.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1977
Italy Relief and Rehabilitation Act - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1977 for the relief of victims of the May 6, 1976, earthquake in Italy.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1977
Amends the Ports and Waterways Safety Act of 1972 to establish a 200-mile marine pollution control zone to which the provisions of such Act shall apply. Stipulates that such zone shall be reduced to a line equidistant between the United States and a foreign nation where such line of equidistance between the two countries is less than 200 miles. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish standards of performance for all vessels in order to protect the waters of the United States and the marine pollution control zone. Authorizes the Administrator to request the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating to review vessel design standards if inadequate to meet such standards of performance. Directs the Secretary to review standards applicable to United States-flag vessels engaged in coastwise trade. Authorizes the imposition of stricter standards by the Secretary and the Administrator with respect to such vessels as compared to those standards applicable to other vessels.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1977
National Science Foundation Authorization Act - Authorizes appropriations for activities of the National Science Foundation for fiscal year 1978, including the following categories: (1) $249,200,000 for mathematical and physical sciences and engineering; (2) $213,400,000 for astronomical, atmospheric, Earth, and ocean sciences; (3) $47,475,000 for United States Antarctic research program; (4) $144,800,000 for biological, behavioral and social sciences; (5) $75,700,000 for science education programs; (6) $78,000,000 for Research Applied to National Needs; (7) $22,600,000 for Scientific, Technological, and International Affairs; and (8) $47,825,000 for Program Development and Management. Limits the transfer of funds from one category to another.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Older Americans Tax Counseling Assistance Act - Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury, through the Internal Revenue Service, to enter into agreements with private or public nonprofit agencies or organizations for the purpose of providing training and technical assistance to prepare volunteers to provide tax counseling assistance for elderly individuals in the preparation of their Federal income tax returns. Directs the Secretary to utilize and support the services of volunteers and to establish the qualifications required and the terms and conditions of service as a volunteer. States that service as a volunteer under this Act shall not be considered service as an employee of the United States. Authorizes the Secretary to direct the attention of elderly individuals to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 which affect the aged.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Solar and Energy Conservation Commercialization Act - Amends the National Housing Act to specify additional types of solar energy systems eligible for financial assistance under such Act. Stipulates that such systems shall include solar heating and cooling and hot water systems, geothermal and wind energy systems, and other energy conservation measures and equipment such as insulation, heat pumps, and devices to improve furnace efficiency. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make grants and loans to individuals and families to assist in the purchase of solar, renewable source, and energy conservation measures and equipment. Authorizes grants and loans for similar purposes to neighborhood, community, or nonprofit groups. Amends the Small Business Act to authorize the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to make loans to small businesses to assist in the purchase and installation of solar, renewable source, and energy conservation improvements and equipment. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the Administrator of the Small Business Administration, and the Federal Energy Administrator to cooperate in carrying out the provisions of this Act and to jointly submit an annual report to the President and the Congress on activities carried out under this Act. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1978 through 1981.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to furnish energy production and conservation assistance to developing countries, including solar, wind, and water projects. Authorizes consultative visits by the Energy Research and Development Administration to design such projects. Authorizes the President to carry out studies to identify the energy needs, uses, and resources of various countries and regions, with special emphasis on the transfer of energy technology. Requires that $10,000,000 of appropriations for development assistance for fiscal year 1978 be spent only for such purposes.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Crude Oil and Natural Gas Information Act -- Directs the President to investigate the production, transportation, and sale of domestically-produced crude oil and natural gas. Requires that the study include an independent estimate of the production capacity of oil and gas fields and reservoirs. Authorizes the President to issue and enforce subpenas to obtain the information required for such investigation. Directs the President to report to the Congress on the results of the continuing investigation required by this Act within six months, and to submit reports annually thereafter.
![Official portrait of Sen. Kennedy, Edward M. [D-MA]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/k000105_200.jpg)