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United States · Official source
7,990 records where Sen. Kennedy, Edward M. [D-MA] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 1996
Stop Sweatshops Act of 1996 - Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to provide for the civil liability of manufacturers for sweatshop conditions in the garment industry. Sets forth civil penalties for violation of recordkeeping and payroll accounting requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 1996
Highway Funding Fairness Act of 1996 - Requires the Secretary of Transportation, for FY 1997, to determine the Federal-aid highway apportionments and allocations to a State without regard to the approximately $1.596 billion credit to the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) of estimated taxes paid by States that was made by the Secretary of the Treasury for FY 1995 in correction of an accounting error made in FY 1994. Requires the Secretary, for each State, to: (1) determine whether the State would have been apportioned and allocated an increased or decreased amount for Federal-aid highways for FY 1996 if such error had not been made; and (2) adjust such amount for FY 1997 by the amount of the increase or decrease and to adjust accordingly the obligation limitation for Federal-aid highways distributed to the State under provisions of the Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1997. States that nothing in this Act shall affect any apportionment, allocation, or distribution of obligation limitation, or reduction thereof, to a State for Federal-aid highways for FY 1996.
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 1996
Commends Operation Sail and encourages its continuation into the next millennium. Encourages all individuals to join in the celebration of the 224th birthday of the United States of America and the international camaraderie that Operation Sail and the International Naval Review will foster.
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 1996
Designates the week of November 3, 1996, as National Shaken Baby Syndrome Awareness Week.
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 1996
Designates room S. 131 in the U.S. Capitol Building as the Mark O. Hatfield Room.
United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1996
Federal Law Enforcement Dependents Assistance Act of 1996 - Amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to provide educational assistance to the dependents of civilian Federal law enforcement officers who are killed or are permanently and totally disabled in the line of duty. Authorizes the Attorney General to discontinue such assistance upon finding that the recipient fails to maintain satisfactory progress. Authorizes retroactive assistance to each eligible dependent of a Federal law enforcement officer killed in the line of duty on or after May 1, 1992. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1996
Designates October 18, 1996, as National Mammography Day.
United States · United States Congress · 5 September 1996
Employment Nondiscrimination Act of 1996 - Defines "employee" to exclude uncompensated volunteers. Defines "employer" to: (1) mean an employer with 15 or more employees; and (2) exclude a bona fide private club. Prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation by covered entities, including an employing authority to which specified provisions of the Government Employee Rights Act of 1991 or the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 apply. Declares that: (1) this Act does not apply to the provision of employee benefits for the benefit of an employee's partner; and (2) a disparate impact does not establish a prima facie violation of this Act. Prohibits quotas and preferential treatment. Declares that this Act does not apply to: (1) religious organizations (except in their for-profit activities); (2) the armed forces; or (3) laws creating special rights or preferences for veterans. Provides for enforcement. Disallows State immunity. Makes the United States liable for all remedies (except punitive damages) to the same extent as a private person. Allows recovery of attorney's fees. Prohibits retaliation and coercion. Requires posting notices for employees and applicants.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1996
Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord Wild and Scenic Rivers Act - Amends the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (the Act) to designate segments of the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord Rivers in Massachusetts as components of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. Requires the segments to be: (1) administered by the Secretary of the Interior through cooperative agreements between the Secretary and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and its relevant political subdivisions; and (2) managed in accordance with the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord Wild and Scenic River Study, River Conservation Plan which shall be deemed to satisfy the requirement for a comprehensive management plan pursuant to the Act. Requires the Director of the National Park Service to represent the Secretary: (1) on the SUASCO River Stewardship Council provided for in the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord Wild and Scenic River Study, River Management Plan; and (2) in the implementation of the Conservation Plan and the provisions of the Act with respect to the segments. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1996
Mental Health Parity Act of 1996 - Requires a group health plan that applies an aggregate lifetime (or annual) limit for medical or surgical services, if the plan also provides a mental health benefit, to include mental health payments in that limit or establish a separate aggregate lifetime (or annual) limit for mental health services, with the mental health limit not less than the medical or surgical limit. Prohibits a group health plan that does not apply a medical or surgical limit from applying a mental health limit. Exempts employers with fewer than 26 employees.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1996
Makes a correction in the enrollment of H.R. 3103 (health insurance).
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1996
Commends Operation Sail and encourages its continuation into the next millennium. Encourages all individuals to join in the celebration of the 224th birthday of the United States of America and the international camaraderie that Operation Sail and the International Naval Review will foster.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1996
Carjacking Correction Act of 1996 - Amends the Federal criminal code to provide that, with respect to the prohibition against taking a motor vehicle that has been transported, shipped, or received in interstate or foreign commerce from another by force and violence or by intimidation with intent to cause death or serious bodily harm, "serious bodily harm" shall include any conduct that, if the conduct occurred in the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States, would violate prohibitions against aggravated sexual assault or sexual assault.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1996
Patient Communications Protection Act of 1996 - Prohibits an entity offering a health plan from prohibiting or restricting any communication by a health care provider with a patient regarding the patient's physical or mental condition or treatment options. Mandates a civil monetary penalty. Allows related State requirements only if they are more protective of such communications than the requirements of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1996
Agent Orange Benefits Act of 1996 - Directs the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide needed health care to a child of a Vietnam veteran who is suffering from spina bifida, for any associated disability. Authorizes the Secretary to provide such health care directly or by contract or other arrangement with a health care provider. Includes within such care home, hospital, nursing home, outpatient, preventive, and rehabilitative care, case management, respite care, the training of family members in the provision of necessary home care, and necessary pharmaceuticals, supplies, and equipment. Authorizes the Secretary to provide vocational training to such a child if the Secretary determines that the achievement of a vocational goal by such child is reasonably feasible. Limits such training to 24 months, unless the Secretary determines that an extension is necessary (up to 24 additional months). Requires a child eligible for more than one assistance program through the Department of Veterans Affairs to elect one program for participation. Directs the Secretary to pay a monetary allowance to any such child for any disability resulting from spina bifida based on the degree of disability. Requires an increase in such disability benefit whenever there is an increase in benefits payable under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. Provides veterans' disability compensation and dependency and indemnity compensation for the additional disability or death of a veteran which: (1) was not the result of the veteran's own willful misconduct; (2) was caused by care, treatment, or examination furnished to the veteran through the Department; and (3) was incurred as a proximate result of such care, treatment, or examination.
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 1996
Designates October 10, 1996, as the Day of National Concern About Young People and Gun Violence.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1996
Commends the organizers, coordinators, and volunteers of NetDay96 throughout the Nation. Calls for: (1) NetDay96's success in California to be used as a model in other States; (2) NetDay96 to be expanded nationwide to assist students, parents, and schools to obtain the full benefits of computer equipment and networks, strengthen their educations, and begin careers with more skills and opportunities in order to help them compete more successfully in the global economy; and (3) businesses, students, parents, educators, and unions throughout the country to consider organizing NetDay96 activities in their communities. Affirms support of NetDay96's commitment to have U.S. classrooms fitted with the needed technological infrastructure for the 21st century.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1996
Urges Congress to evaluate whether proposed welfare legislation would exacerbate violence against women, make it more difficult for women and children to escape domestic violence, or unfairly penalize such individuals victimized by or at risk of violence. Provides that welfare legislation enacted by the Congress should: (1) require that welfare-to-work, education, or job placement programs implemented by the States take domestic violence into account by providing mechanisms for screening and identifying recipients with a history of domestic violence, referring such recipients to counseling and supportive services, tolling time limits for them, and waiving other program requirements such as residency requirements, child support cooperation requirements, and family cap provisions, in cases where compliance with such requirements would make it more difficult for the recipients to escape domestic violence or unfairly penalize recipients victimized by or at risk of further violence; and (2) include a provision requiring that the Comptroller General develop and implement a comprehensive study of the incidence and effect of domestic violence on Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) recipients. Provides that welfare legislation adopted by the States that contains a welfare-to-work, education, or job placement program should take domestic violence into account by providing similar mechanisms.
United States · United States Congress · 21 June 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Provisions Relating to the National Institutes of Health Title II: Provisions Relating to the National Research Institutes Title III: Specific Institutes and Centers Subtitle A: National Cancer Institute Subtitle B: National Heart Lung and Blood Institute Subtitle C: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Subtitle D: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Subtitle E: National Institute on Aging Subtitle F: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Subtitle G: National Institute on Drug Abuse Subtitle H: National Institute of Mental Health Subtitle I: National Center for Research Resources Subtitle J: National Library of Medicine Title IV: Awards and Training Title V: Research with Respect to AIDS Title VI: General Provisions Subtitle A: Authority of the Director of NIH Subtitle B: Office of Rare Disease Research Subtitle C: Certain Reauthorizations Subtitle D: Miscellaneous Provisions Subtitle E: Repeals and Conforming Amendments National Institutes of Health Revitalization Act of 1996 - Title I: Provisions Relating to the National Institutes of Health - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize appropriations for: (1) the discretionary fund of the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH); and (2) the development and improvement of vaccines. Title II: Provisions Relating to the National Research Institutes - Authorizes appropriations for research and related activities concerning osteoporosis, Paget's disease, and related bone disorders. (Sec. 202) Declares that the purpose of the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) is to characterize the structure and function of the human genome, including: (1) mapping and sequencing of genes; and (2) addressing related ethical, legal, and social issues. Transfers to NHGRI all functions of the National Center for Human Genome Research. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 203) Increases the dollar thresholds for requiring technical and scientific peer review and advisory council approval for contracts and cooperative agreements. (Sec. 204) Revises advisory council requirements. (Sec. 205) Eliminates (or reduces the frequency of) mandated reports by: (1) NIH; (2) various coordinating committees and advisory boards and a task force; and (3) the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Revises requirements regarding research on sudden infant death syndrome. Amends the International Health Research Act of 1960 to eliminate a mandated report by the President. Title III: Specific Institutes and Centers - Subtitle A: National Cancer Institute - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize appropriations for the National Cancer Institute and for activities related to breast, gynecological, prostate, and other cancers. Authorizes appropriations regarding conditions associated with diethylstilbestrol (DES). Subtitle B: National Heart Lung and Blood Institute - Authorizes appropriations for the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Subtitle C: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases - Authorizes appropriations for research and training regarding tuberculosis and for community-based clinical trials of treatments for infection with the etiologic agent for acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Subtitle D: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development - Authorizes appropriations for activities regarding contraception and infertility. Subtitle E: National Institute on Aging - Authorizes appropriations for the National Institute on Aging. Subtitle F: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism - Authorizes appropriations for the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Modifies requirements regarding grants to National Alcohol Research Centers. Subtitle G: National Institute on Drug Abuse - Authorizes appropriations for the National Institute on Drug Abuse (including the Medication Development Program). Modifies requirements regarding grants to Drug Abuse Research Centers. Subtitle H: National Institute of Mental Health - Authorizes appropriations for the National Institute of Mental Health. Subtitle I: National Center for Research Resources - Authorizes appropriations for biomedical and behavioral research facilities. Authorizes (currently, requires) reservation of an unspecified amount (currently, $5 million) for regional centers for primate research. (Sec. 382) Mandates grants: (1) for the establishment of general clinical research centers; (2) to support individual careers in clinical research; and (3) to support individual clinical research projects. Authorizes appropriations for each of the grants. (Sec. 384) Modifies: (1) the composition of the Scientific and Technical Review Board on Biomedical and Behavioral Research Facilities; and (2) requirements regarding biomedical and behavioral research facilities grants. Subtitle J: National Library of Medicine - Authorizes appropriations for the National Library of Medicine. Title IV: Awards and Training - Mandates expansion of the Medical Scientist Training Program to include fields that will contribute to training clinical investigators in the skills of performing patient-oriented clinical research. (Sec. 402) Increases the maximum annual educational loan repayment that may be made on behalf of health professionals (including, in some cases, those from disadvantaged backgrounds) conducting AIDS, contraception, infertility, or other research. Authorizes appropriations regarding the AIDS research loan repayments. (Sec. 403) Mandates a program of educational loan repayments for health professionals conducting research in areas identified by the NIH Director. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 404) Increases the aggregate limit on the number of undergraduate scholarships for professions needed by NIH and the number of loan repayment contracts regarding NIH clinical researchers. Replaces, in provisions authorizing those loan repayments, references to being from disadvantaged backgrounds with a requirement that a specified percentage of appropriated funds be used for such individuals. Authorizes appropriations for the loan repayments. Title V: Research with Respect to AIDS - Authorizes appropriations for: (1) carrying out a comprehensive plan for NIH AIDS activities; and (2) the AIDS emergency discretionary fund. Title VI: General Provisions - Subtitle A: Authority of the Director of NIH - Adds to the authorities of the NIH Director conducting and supporting research training and appointing health care professionals. Subtitle B: Office of Rare Disease Research - Establishes the Office for Rare Disease Research and a related advisory council. Subtitle C: Certain Reauthorizations - Authorizes appropriations for: (1) National Research Service Awards; and (2) the National Foundation for Biomedical Research. Subtitle D: Miscellaneous Provisions - Establishes the National Fund for Health Research. (Sec. 633) Requires, notwithstanding any other provision of law, that the Secretary of Health and Human Services be treated as a nonprofit entity for the purpose of making contributions to the retirement systems of Silvio O. Conte Senior Biomedical Research Service appointees in a manner that will permit the appointees to continue to be fully covered under the retirement systems they were members of immediately before their appointment. Subtitle E: Repeals and Conforming Amendments - Replaces, in provisions limiting administrative expenses, a reference to the National Center for Nursing Research with a reference to the National Institute of Nursing Research. Revises ex officio or other membership regarding various advisory councils and advisory boards. Repeals provisions establishing the National Diabetes Advisory Board, the National Digestive Diseases Advisory Board, the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Advisory Board, the National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Advisory Board, and the National Deafness and Other Communication Disorders Advisory Board. Removes provisions requiring that the National Academy of Sciences be requested to conduct certain studies on biomedical and behavioral research personnel. Amends the Comprehensive Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Prevention, Treatment, and Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1979 to repeal provisions establishing the National Commission on Alcoholism and Other Alcohol-Related Problems. Amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA) to remove provisions establishing an advisory council relating to hazardous substance research and training.
United States · United States Congress · 19 June 1996
Tobacco Medicaid Recovery Act of 1996 - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to reward States that recover by lawsuit from manufacturers of tobacco products Federal and State health care costs incurred under Medicaid for the treatment of individuals with diseases attributable to the use of tobacco products. Provides for: (1) attributing a portion of such recovered costs to the non-Federal share of expenditures under the Medicaid programs of such States; and (2) paying another portion to the National Institutes of Health for disease research.
United States · United States Congress · 19 June 1996
Church Arson Prevention Act of 1996 - Makes Federal criminal code prohibitions against, and penalties for, damaging religious property or obstructing any person's free exercise of religious beliefs applicable where: (1) the property is damaged because of its racial or ethnic character; and (2) the offense is in, or affects, interstate commerce. (Currently such provisions apply only where: (1) the property is damaged because of its religious character; (2) the defendant, in committing the offense, travels in interstate or foreign commerce or uses a facility or instrumentality of interstate or foreign commerce in interstate or foreign commerce; and (3) the loss exceeds $10,000.) Prohibits intentionally defacing, damaging, or destroying religious real property (or attempting to do so) because of the race, color, religious, or ethnic characteristics of any individual associated with such property. Increases penalties for violations of such provisions where bodily injury results or where such acts include the use, or attempted or threatened use, of a dangerous weapon, explosives, or fire. Includes within the definition of "religious property" fixtures or religious objects contained within a place of religious worship. Sets a seven-year statute of limitation for the prosecution, trial, or punishment of a person for any noncapital offense under such provisions. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to use up to $5 million of the credit subsidy provided under the General and Special Risk Insurance Fund for guaranteed loans to financial institutions in connection with loans made to assist certain tax exempt religious or other organizations that have been damaged by arson or terrorism. Authorizes appropriations to the Departments of the Treasury and Justice, including the Community Relations Service, to increase personnel to investigate, prevent, and respond to potential violations of this Act and Federal explosives prohibitions. Reauthorizes the Hate Crimes Statistics Act. Commends those individuals and entities that have responded with funds to assist in the rebuilding of places of worship that have been victimized by arson. Encourages the private sector to continue such efforts.
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 1996
Condemns arson and other acts of desecration against churches and other houses of worship as being totally inconsistent with fundamental American values. Expresses the Senate's belief that investigation and prosecution of those who are responsible for fires at such entities, and especially any incidents of arson whose purpose is to divide communities or to intimidate any Americans, should be a high national priority.
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1996
Condemns arson against churches and declares that the investigation and prosecution of those who are responsible, especially for any incidents of arson the purpose of which is to divide communities or to intimidate Americans, should be a high national priority. Commends the President for pledging to devote all Federal resources necessary to bring to justice those responsible. Calls for all investigations of fires at churches which are of suspicious origin to be conducted in a sensitive manner that reflects the special character of churches and the role they play in American communities.
United States · United States Congress · 11 June 1996
Designates the balcony adjacent to rooms S-230 and S-231 of the U.S. Capitol Building as the Robert J. Dole Balcony.
United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1996
Clean-Fuel Vehicle Act of 1996 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise the tax treatment for electric and other clean-fuel motor vehicles.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Short Title; Table of Contents Title II: Revenue Provisions Subtitle A: Expanded Pension Coverage and Simplification Subtitle B: Expanded Individual Retirement Accounts to Increase Coverage and Portability Subtitle C: Other Expansions of Pension Portability Subtitle D: Conforming Amendments Title I: Short Title; Table of Contents - Retirement Savings and Security Act - Sets forth the table of contents of this Act. Title II: Revenue Provisions - Subtitle A: Expanded Pension Coverage and Simplification - Chapter 1: The NEST and Other Coverage Expansion - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish national employee savings trusts (NESTS) for employees of small employers. (Sec. 1102) Makes tax-exempt organizations and Indian governmental instrumentalities eligible section 401(k) pension plan employers. (Sec. 1103) Sets forth alternative methods for satisfying section 401(k) nondiscrimination tests. (Sec. 1104) Revises "highly compensated employee" provisions. (Sec. 1106) Repeals the limitation in the case of an employee with defined benefit and a defined contribution plans from the same employer. (Sec. 1107) Makes certain defined contribution plan provisions applicable to all permanently disabled employees. (Sec. 1108) Revises deferred payment provisions with respect to: (1) owner-employee contributions; and (2) State and local plan trust requirements. Chapter 2: Simplification and Cost Savings - Sets forth a special compensation limitation rule with respect to governmental and multiemployer deferred payment plans. States that a governmental plan's eligibility shall not be affected by its excess benefit arrangement. (Sec. 1204) Provides special rules for treatment of governmental and tax-exempt organization deferred compensation plans. (Sec. 1206) Establishes a simplified method for annuity distribution taxation for certain employer plans. (Sec. 1207) Eliminates five-year income averaging for lump-sum distributions. (Sec. 1208) Reduces from 59.5 years old to 59 years old the age at which a recipient may receive certain retirement and annuity distributions penalty-free. (Sec. 1209) Provides a special rule for certain rural cooperative plan distributions. (Sec. 1211) Treats the social security retirement age as the uniform retirement age for purposes of pension plan non-discrimination requirements. (Sec. 1214) Eliminates partial termination rules with respect to multiemployer plans. (Sec. 1217) Increases the tax on prohibited transactions. Subtitle B: Expanded Individual Retirement Accounts to Increase Coverage and Portability - Chapter 1: Retirement Savings Incentives - Subchapter A: IRA Deduction - Increases individual retirement account (IRA) income limitations. Provides inflation adjustments for deductible amounts and income limitations. Subchapter B: Nondeductible Tax-Free IRAs - Establishes nondeductible tax-free IRAs. Chapter 2: Distributions and Investments - Authorizes IRA distributions to be used without the additional ten-percent tax for first home purchases, higher education, financially devastating medical costs, and by the unemployed. (Sec. 1323) Sets forth provisions with respect to the use of IRA funds to purchase qualifying State prepaid tuition instruments. Chapter 3: Termination of Certain Provisions - Sets forth IRA-related termination provisions with respect to: (1) inflation adjustments; (2) contributions to special IRA accounts; (3) early withdrawal tax; and (4) increases in specified limitations. Subtitle C: Other Expansions of Pension Portability - Establishes alternative nondiscrimination rules for certain plans that provide for early participation. (Sec. 1402) Establishes special rules for certain veterans' reemployment rights, including provisions regarding: (1) contributions; (2) elective deferrals; (3) retroactive adjustments; (4) loan repayment suspensions; and (5) compensation. (Sec. 1403) Eliminates the special vesting rule for multiemployer plans. Subtitle D: Conforming Amendments - Makes specified conforming amendments.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Short Title; Table of Contents Title II: Conforming Railroad Retirement Benefits with Social Security Title I: Short Title; Table of Contents - Retirement Savings and Security Act - Sets forth this Act's short title and table of contents. Title II: Conforming Railroad Retirement Benefits with Social Security - Amends the Railroad Retirement Act of 1974 (RRA) with respect to eligibility for and the amount of a child's annuity. Provides for entitlement to spousal annuities despite certain age requirements. Removes the age requirement for divorced spouses, and provides for entitlement of the divorced spouse where the worker's annuity is not payable. Provides for RRA benefits equivalent to those under the Social Security Act with respect to: (1) amounts of continued payment to survivors of waived lump sum benefits; (2) lump sum death benefits; and (3) benefits with respect to service for which certain railroad retirement annuities are not payable.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1996
Shore Protection Act of 1996 - Includes as U.S. policy the prevention of damage to U.S. beaches and the promotion of shore protection projects (projects) and related research that encourages the protection, restoration, and enhancement of sandy beaches. Directs the Secretary of the Army to: (1) recommend, conduct, and report to the Congress on studies concerning projects that meet established criteria; (2) recommend to the Congress the authorization or reauthorization of projects based on study results; (3) consider the economic, ecological, local, and regional benefits of such projects; and (4) carry out the projects in coordination with any other Federal projects. Directs the Secretary to: (1) construct any project authorized by the Congress for which funds have been appropriated through a construction agreement with a non-Federal interest; (2) report annually to the appropriate congressional committees on the status of all ongoing shore protection studies and projects; and (3) reimburse non-Federal interests (currently, local interests) for work done on authorized projects (current law) or separable elements of such projects. Amends the Water Resources Development Act of 1992 to require similar written agreements with non-Federal interests for shoreline projects carried out under such Act. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) cooperate with a State in the preparation of a comprehensive State or regional plan for the conservation of coastal resources; (2) encourage State participation in plan implementation; and (3) submit reports and recommendations to the Congress concerning Federal participation in such plan. Amends the Flood Control Act of 1970 to include within authorized projects shore protection projects, including beach nourishment and the replacement of sand.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Short Title; Table of Contents Title II: Additional Retirement Participation and Payment Options for Federal Employees Retirement Savings and Security Act - Title I: Short Title; Table of Contents - Sets forth, for this Act: (1) the short title; and (2) the table of contents. Title II: Additional Retirement Participation and Payment Options for Federal Employees - Requires the Executive Director of the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board to prescribe regulations to allow Federal employees to be afforded a reasonable opportunity to make an election to make contributions under the Thrift Savings Plan on the date of commencing service or beginning on the earliest date thereafter that such an election becomes administratively feasible. (Sec. 2002) Provides for a deferred annuity for a surviving former spouse of a deceased former Federal employee who separated from the service with title to a deferred annuity if such individuals were married to one another prior to the date of separation. Provides for a surviving spouse to elect to receive a certain deferred annuity if a former employee dies after having separated from the service with title to a deferred annuity but before having established a valid claim for annuity. (Sec. 2003) Revises provisions concerning the payment of a lump sum to a former spouse of a Federal employee.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Short Titles; Table of Contents Title II: ERISA Provisions Subtitle A: Expanded Pension Coverage and Simplification Subtitle B: Portability Subtitle C: Enhanced Security Title I: Short Title; Table of Contents - Retirement Savings and Security Act - Sets forth the table of contents. Title II: ERISA Provisions - Subtitle A: Expanded Pension Coverage and Simplification - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to establish reporting and fiduciary requirements relating to NESTs (National Employee Savings Trusts, under the Internal Revenue Code (IRC), which are 401(k)-type plans for small business, designed to ensure participation by low- and moderate-wage workers, who will be able to save up to $5,000 per year tax-deferred, plus receive employer contributions toward retirement). (Sec. 2002) Eliminates specified ERISA requirements relating to employee benefit plan descriptions and filing of summary plan descriptions and descriptions of material modifications to a plan. Requires filing of annual plan reports by plan administrators. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to request any documents relating to such plans. (Sec. 2003) Includes under ERISA purchases of qualified State prepaid tuition program instruments to which specified IRC provisions apply. Subtitle B: Portability - Directs the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) to prescribe specified types of payment rules relating to missing participants for terminated multiemployer plans. (Sec. 2011) Allows the administrator of a plan not otherwise subject to ERISA plan termination insurance provisions to elect to transfer a missing participant's benefits to the PBGC upon plan termination. Requires such administrator to provide the PBGC with specified information. Directs the PBGC, if such a missing participant's benefits are transferred to it, to pay the appropriate amount to the participant or beneficiary. (Sec. 2012) Eliminates a special vesting rule for multiemployer plans. (Sec. 2013) Provides for treatment of certain loans during military service. Subtitle C: Enhanced Security - Increases the amounts of guarantees for multiemployer plan benefits. (Sec. 2022) Directs the Secretary of Labor, as chairman of the PBGC board, to transmit to the President and the Congress an annual reversion report providing information on plans from which residual assets were distributed to employers. (Sec. 2023) Sets forth a full funding limitation for multiemployer plans. Requires a valuation every three years in the case of multiemployer plans. (Sec. 2024) Increases the maximum civil penalty for certain prohibited transactions. (Sec. 2025) Revises provisions relating to substantial owner benefits to modify: (1) a phase-in of guarantee; and (2) allocation of assets. Pension Audit Improvement Act of 1996 - Amends ERISA to repeal certain provisions for limited scope audits. (Sec. 2033) Requires certain notifications by plan administrators and accountants regarding: (1) irregularities that may have occurred with respect to plans; and (2) termination of an accountant's engagement for auditing services. Sets forth civil penalties for failures to provide the Secretary of Labor with such notifications. (Sec. 2034) Prescribes additional requirements for qualified public accountants. (Sec. 2035) Revises certain fiduciary penalties. Modifies a prohibition of assignment or alienation. Changes from mandatory to discretionary: (1) the imposition and the amount of civil penalties for breach of fiduciary responsibility; and (2) certain provisions relating to an applicable recovery amount.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Essex National Heritage Area Title II: Essex National Heritage Area Commission Essex National Heritage Area Act of 1996 - Title I: Essex National Heritage Area - Establishes the Essex National Heritage Area for the purpose of preserving and interpreting the contributions to our national heritage of certain historic and cultural lands, natural waterways, and structures within Essex County, Massachusetts. Title II: Essex National Heritage Area Commission - Establishes the Essex National Heritage Area Commission in the Department of the Interior to: (1) coordinate activities of and establish cooperative agreements with government and private entities to further historic preservation, cultural conservation, natural area protection, and compatible revitalization for the Area; (2) establish standards for projects and prepare programs for preservation of historic properties; (3) make loans and grants for conserving and protecting sites, buildings, resources, and objects which are included on or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places; and (4) implement the study report by the Essex Heritage Ad-Hoc Commission. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to assist the Commission in preparing studies and plans and in implementing the recommendations contained in such report. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements with the Commission or with any property owner within the Area to facilitate public use and enjoyment of such resources or to otherwise further the Commission's objectives. Directs the Secretary to provide technical assistance to the Commission, upon request, and authorizes the Secretary to provide technical assistance to property owners, Massachusetts, the city of Salem and other participating municipalities, Federal or State entities, institutions, or persons to carry out this Act. Directs the Commission to assist in the establishment of a nonprofit management entity to continue the Commission's functions after it expires in ten years. Prohibits privately owned property from being included within the Area's boundaries unless the government of the county, city, or town in which the property is located agrees and notifies the Secretary. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1996
Honors Admiral Jeremy M. 'Mike' Boorda, the 25th Chief of Naval Operations.
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Nicodemus National Historic Site Title II: New Bedford National Historic Landmark District Title I: Nicodemus National Historic Site - Establishes the Nicodemus National Historic Site in Nicodemus, Kansas. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) provide technical assistance for the preservation of historic structures, the maintenance of the cultural landscape, and local preservation planning; and (2) acquire certain real property in connection with the Site. Directs the Secretary to prepare and submit to specified congressional committees a general management plan for the Site. Authorizes appropriations. Title II: New Bedford National Historic Landmark District - Establishes the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park in New Bedford, Massachusetts, to be administered as a unit of the national park system. Requires expenditures to consist of: (1) one dollar of Federal funds for each four dollars of non-Federal funds for cooperative agreements entered into under this Act for preservation, development, interpretation, and use of the Park; and (2) non-Federal funds matching Federal funds for visitor and interpretive facilities (other than operation and maintenance costs). Requires the Secretary of the Interior to submit to specified congressional committees and to implement a general management plan for the Park. Authorizes appropriations. Limits the amount that may be appropriated for visitor and interpretive facilities and directional and visitor orientation signage. Prohibits the use of appropriations authorized under this Act for operation or maintenance of the Schooner Ernestina and limits the amount of Federal funds that may be used annually for interpretive and educational programs for the Schooner Ernestina pursuant to cooperative grants under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 1996
Designates May 15, 1996, as National Peace Officers Memorial Day.
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 1996
Prohibits the shipment in interstate or foreign commerce of steel jaw leghold traps and of articles of fur derived from animals trapped in such traps. Prescribes criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to reward nongovernment informers for information leading to a conviction under this Act. Empowers enforcement officials to detain, search, and seize suspected merchandise or documents and to make arrests with and without warrants. Subjects seized merchandise to forfeiture.
United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1996
Provides for observation of a moment of silence at 9:02 a.m. central daylight time on April 19, 1996, in remembrance of the victims of the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Commends the people of Oklahoma and the aid provided by rescuers, Federal agencies, countless volunteers, and Federal employees. Reaffirms trust in our system of justice to ensure that the perpetrators are convicted and punished.
United States · United States Congress · 17 April 1996
Encourages the convening of an annual National Silver Haired Congress in the District of Columbia.
United States · United States Congress · 16 April 1996
Designates the week of May 5, 1996, as National Correctional Officers and Employees Week.
United States · United States Congress · 15 April 1996
Designates the Department of Veterans Affairs medical center in Jackson, Mississippi, as the G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center.
United States · United States Congress · 15 April 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Job and Income Security Subtitle A: Most Favored Companies Subtitle B: Investment in New Technologies Subtitle C: Minimizing the Adverse Impacts of Mergers and Acquisitions Subtitle D: Corporate Restructurings Subtitle E: Expansion of Educational Opportunities for Workers Subtitle F: Elimination of Tax Incentives for Moving Jobs Overseas Subtitle G: Distressed Community Economic Development Bonds Title II: Retirement Security Title III: Severability American Workers Economic Security Act - Title I: Job and Income Security - Subtitle A: Most Favored Companies - Amends the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to provide for a 25 percent reduction in corporate tax on taxable income equaling dividends paid by Secretary of Labor-certified most favored companies which provide employees with training and education benefits (through any approved training program), health care benefits (through insurance or otherwise), pension benefits, child care, among other benefits required by the Secretary. (Sec. 102) Amends the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act to give a price evaluation preference to contract offers by most favored companies. (Sec. 103) Expresses the sense of the Senate that most favored companies should receive preference in the provision of various forms of Federal direct financial assistance. Subtitle B: Investment in New Technologies - Amends the Small Business Act to reserve specified funds for the small business technology transfer program. (Sec. 112) Amends IRC to provide for permanent extension of the tax credit for research activities. (Sec. 113) Expresses the sense of the Senate that the total level of non-defense research and development spending in the Federal budget should be increased in equal increments over a five fiscal year period to 2.77 percent of the U.S. gross domestic product. Subtitle C: Minimizing the Adverse Impacts of Mergers and Acquisitions - Amends IRC to disallow a tax deduction for certain merger and acquisition expenses. (Sec. 122) Amends the Clayton Act (antitrust law) to require submission of a plant closure and employee assistance plan to the Secretary of Labor by any person acquiring any voting securities or assets of any other person with respect to specified transactions which would result in a reduction in the overall number of employees or the shutdown of a plant or other facility. (Sec. 123) Requires a court to consider the interests of workers and local communities in determining an appropriate remedy for a specified violation of the Clayton Act, including the timing and nature of any required divestiture. Subtitle D: Corporate Restructurings - Requires each issuer of securities to submit a detailed employee impact and benefit plan to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Secretary of Labor before undertaking any restructuring that includes the involuntary termination of a significant number of the employees of the issuer. Subtitle E: Expansion of Educational Opportunities for Workers - Amends IRC to establish an employee training credit half the qualified training expenses (limited to $2,500 per employee) of the taxpayer for such taxable year for specified employee education and training programs. (Sec. 142) Allows an individual tax deduction for higher education expenses (up to $10,000) and interest on student loans for taxpayers, their spouses, or dependents. Subtitle F: Elimination of Tax Incentives for Moving Jobs Overseas - Revises the IRC with respect to an exception for inventory property and the determination of whether the source of income from certain sales of inventory property is inside or outside the United States. (Sec. 152) Provides that the authority of the Secretary of the Treasury, with respect to allocation of income and deductions among taxpayers, shall not be limited by any restriction (by any law or agreement) on the ability of such interests, organizations, trades, or businesses to transfer or receive money or other property. (Sec. 153) Treats as taxable any foreign base company manufacturing related income from runaway plants or from manufacturing operations located in a country which provides a tax holiday. (Sec. 154) Repeals the exclusion from gross income of foreign earned income. (Sec. 155) Revises specified tax rules on expatriation. Subtitle G: Distressed Community Economic Development Bonds - Makes distressed community economic development bonds qualified tax-exempt bonds. Title II: Retirement Security - Workers Pension Act of 1996 - Allows an individual tax deduction for contributions to individual pension plans. (Sec. 204) Allows penalty-free distributions from individual pension plans to pay educational expenses or for the unemployed. Amends title II (Old-Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to provide for supplementary social security accounts, funded through payroll deductions by the individual and optional contributions by the individual's employer. (Sec. 205) Sets forth employer responsibilities with respect to individual pension plans. Declares that this title does not require employers, with respect to individual pension plans, to maintain a written pension plan, accept fiduciary responsibility for their employees' investments, or meet non-discrimination tests for employer pension benefits. (Sec. 206) Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to designate and enter into an agreement with an organization to serve as a regional pension service center for each area of the United States, which shall receive payroll deductions for individual pension plans from employers, them to the proper qualified pension agency for deposit to the pertinent individual pension plan, and assist employees, employers, and qualified pension agencies through information and other activities. (Sec. 207) Vests in the Secretary of the Treasury to have primary responsibility for the administration of this title. Directs the Secretaries of the Treasury and of Labor to jointly insure certain employee and employer notifications are made. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury, upon determining that a private market is not working well in specified respects or that available qualified pension agencies are not performing well, to contract on a competitive basis with one or more qualified pension agencies to improve service in such markets. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to set standards for individual pension plans and qualified pension agencies. Authorizes establishment of a formal advisory committee to assist in this process. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to set national standards to insure an efficient, well-functioning system for individual pension plans. Authorizes establishment of one or more advisory committees to assist in these efforts. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to establish annual licensing fees for qualified pension agencies designed to cover the Federal appropriation for the on-going administration of the system. (Sec. 208) Declares that this title shall preempt conflicting State laws, except when preemption is waived by the Secretary of the Treasury. Title III: Severability - Sets forth a severability provision.
United States · United States Congress · 15 April 1996
Pays tribute to the remarkable life and career of Ronald H. Brown (the late Secretary of Commerce) and to the contributions of all those who perished in the airplane accident on April 3, 1996, while in service to their country on a mission to Bosnia. Extends condolences to the victims' families.
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1996
Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit persons under indictment for, or convicted of, any crime involving domestic violence from owning or possessing, or engaging in other specified activities with respect to, firearms. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to prescribe regulations providing for the effective receipt and secure storage of firearms relinquished by or seized from such persons. Exempts persons convicted of a crime of domestic violence from certain provisions regarding: (1) restoration of civil rights after a conviction; and (2) administrative relief from firearm prohibitions.
United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1996
Reauthorizes the Hate Crime Statistics Act.
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: National Tourism Board Title II: National Tourism Organization Travel and Tourism Partnership Act of 1996 - Title I: National Tourism Board - Establishes the National Tourism Board to develop a national travel and tourism strategy for increasing U.S. tourism. Title II: National Tourism Organization - Directs the President to provide for the establishment of the National Tourism Organization as a non-Federal nonprofit organization to implement the national travel and tourism strategy developed by the Board. Requires the head of a Federal agency, upon request, to provide technical assistance to the Organization to assist it in carrying out its purposes. Requires the head of each Federal agency maintaining offices in a foreign country to incorporate in their programs and activities some that implement the recommendations of the Organization and Board. Amends the Export Enhancement Act of 1988 to require the Trade Promotion Coordinating Committee's (TPCC) Federal trade promotion plan to reflect Board recommendations. Makes the President of the Organization a member of TPCC.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: General Provisions Title II: Assistance for Education of All Children with Disabilities Title III: Systems Change Title IV: Research and Personnel Preparation Title V: Technical Assistance, Support, and Dissemination of Information Title VI: Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1996 - Revises the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and extends its authorization of appropriations through FY 2002. Title I: General Provisions - Revises IDEA to declare that the right to equal educational opportunities for all children with disabilities is guaranteed by the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment to the Constitution. (Sec. 103) Allows the Office of Special Education Programs to accept voluntary and uncompensated services. (Sec. 104) Revises requirements for: (1) prescribing regulations; (2) eligibility for financial assistance; and (3) discretionary grant programs. Requires the Secretary of Education to develop and implement a comprehensive plan for activities under titles IV and V of this Act. Provides for specified enhanced services to children with disabilities. Lists entities eligible for awards. Authorizes the Secretary to limit, without rulemaking, competitions to projects that give priority to one or more targeted areas, if each project addresses the needs of children with disabilities and their families. Provides for application management, including a peer review process. Authorizes the Secretary to use certain funds for: (1) payments to nonfederal entities for administrative support; (2) Federal employees to monitor projects; and (3) evaluation of program activities carried out under these programs. (Sec. 107) Repeals IDEA provisions for: (1) acquisition of equipment and construction of necessary facilities; and (2) grants for the removal of architectural barriers. Title II: Assistance for Education of All Children with Disabilities - Revises entitlements and allocations for assistance for education of all children with disabilities. (Sec. 201) Authorizes States to determine whether to make subgrants smaller than a specified minimum amount to some local education agencies (LEAs). (Sec. 202) Revises and consolidates State eligibility and planning provisions. Provides that, if a child with a disability qualifies for special education, that child does not have to be classified by a specific impairment or condition. Requires the State educational agency (SEA) to: (1) examine data to determine if significant racial disproportionality is occurring in the identification or placement of children under IDEA; and (2) review and revise policies accordingly. Provides that, if a hearing officer agrees with the parents' unilateral placement of a child with a disability in a private school, the LEA may be required to reimburse the parents. Requires a non-educational agency, if it is responsible for services necessary to ensure a free appropriate public education for children with disabilities, to pay for or provide such services directly or by contract or other arrangements. Requires States to: (1) ensure that interagency agreements or other mechanisms are in effect between educational agencies and non-educational agencies for defining respective financial responsibilities, resolving interagency disputes, and interagency coordination; and (2) establish a mechanism by which LEAs may seek reimbursement from agencies for the costs of providing related services. Revises requirements for a comprehensive system of personnel development. Allows LEAs to use appropriately trained and supervised paraprofessionals. Requires States to: (1) establish performance goals and indicators for children with disabilities; (2) ensure that these children participate in general State and district-wide assessments, with appropriate accommodations, where necessary; and (3) develop guidelines for participation in alternative assessments for those children who cannot participate in such general State and district-wide assessments. Consolidates funding and public participation requirements. Revises requirements for State advisory panels and their duties. Repeals requirements for three-year State plans. (Sec. 203) Revises LEA and SEA eligibility and maintenance of effort requirements, with specified exceptions. Allows specified activities, regardless of certain excess cost and noncommingling of funds requirements, including: (1) incidental benefits to non-disabled students; (2) simultaneous services on a space-available basis to non-IDEA-eligible children with disabilities protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); (3) a coordinated services system that links education, health, and social welfare services, systems, and entities to improve educational and transitional results for all children and their families; and (4) a school-based improvement plan. Revises requirements for LEA involvement with a State's Comprehensive System of Personnel Development. (Sec. 204) Revises and consolidates specified requirements for State and local administration of evaluations, reevaluations, individualized education programs (IEPs), and educational placements. Revises IEP content to: (1) focus on measurable annual objectives; and (2) emphasize ensuring that each child, as appropriate, has the opportunity to progress in the general curriculum, and to participate with nondisabled children in various environments. Requires consideration of transition services needs: (1) for all students with disabilities beginning at age 14 (or younger, under specified circumstances); (2) under the applicable components of the IEP; and (3) in light of the student's participation in the general curriculum. Provides for transfer of rights at the age of majority. (Sec. 205) Repeals certain IDEA provisions relating to Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) State agencies. (Sec. 206) Revises procedural safeguards, including provisions for written notices to parents. Requires States to make mediation available to parents of children with disabilities in disputes with LEAs on any matter regarding the identification, evaluation, or educational placement of a child or the provision of free appropriate public education. Permits the transfer of parental rights to a student with disabilities upon reaching the age of majority under State law. Requires the State to have procedures for appointing the parent or another person to represent the student's interests if, under State law, such a student is determined not to have the ability to provide informed consent. (Sec. 207) Revises requirements for: (1) withholding of payments to non-compliant States and judicial review of such determinations; (2) rulemaking on compliance and eligibility; (3) evaluation and program information; (4) preschool grants; and (5) payments. (Sec. 209) Requires the Secretary to: (1) conduct studies and evaluations to assess the effectiveness of efforts to provide free appropriate public education and early intervention services, including assessing the placement of children with disabilities by disability category; and (2) conduct a longitudinal study that measure the educational and transitional services provided to and results achieved by children with disabilities under IDEA. Title III: Systems Change - Establishes a program to promote systems change to improve educational and transitional services and results for children with disabilities. Authorizes competitive grants to SEAs, in partnership with LEAs and other interested individuals, agencies, and organizations, to improve such services and results on a system-wide basis. Allows grant recipients to collaborate in systems change activities with those in other States, through joint arrangements with institutions of higher education and sharing of staff and consultants. Requires coordination with this program of activities under titles IV and V. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 302) Extends authorities and authorizations of appropriations relating to centers and services to meet special needs of individuals with disabilities, including regional centers for the deaf. Title IV: Research and Personnel Preparation - Establishes a new program (in part by consolidating certain current activities) for improving early intervention, educational, and transitional services and results for children with disabilities through coordinated research and personnel preparation. (Consolidates current part D personnel preparation provisions and current part E research provisions.) (Sec. 401) Authorizes research and innovation grants and contracts for: (1) new knowledge production in learning styles, instructional approaches, behavior management, assessment tools, assistive technology, program accountability and personnel preparation models; (2) integration of research and practice, through demonstration and dissemination of successful practice; and (3) improvement in the use of professional knowledge by teachers, parents, and others in their classrooms and other learning settings. Authorizes personnel preparation grants and contracts in the areas of: (1) high incidence disabilities, such as learning disabilities, mental retardation, and behavior disordered groups; (2) leadership preparation; (3) low-incidence disabilities, such as sensory impairment, multiple disabilities, and severe disabling conditions; and (4) projects of national significance. (Sec. 402) Makes conforming amendments to the Higher Education Act of 1965, Goals 2000: Educate America Act, and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. (Sec. 403) Extends the authorization of appropriations for training personnel for the education of individuals with disabilities. Title V: Technical Assistance, Support, and Dissemination of Information - Establishes a new program (in part by consolidating certain current activities) for improving early intervention, educational, and transitional services and results for children with disabilities through coordinated technical assistance, support, and dissemination of information. (Sec. 501) Authorizes grants and contracts for: (1) parent training and information centers and community programs; (2) coordinated technical assistance, support, and dissemination; and (3) technology and media activities. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 502) Makes conforming amendments to IDEA and the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act. (Sec. 503) Extends various authorities and authorizations of appropriations. Title VI: Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities - Revises the program for infants and toddlers with disabilities, with respect to: (1) encouraging States to expand opportunities for infants and toddlers with disabilities who are at risk of having substantial developmental delays if early intervention services are not provided; (2) continuing eligibility; (3) statewide system requirements; (4) the individualized family service plan; (5) allocation and use of funds; (6) procedural safeguards; (7) State Interagency Coordinating Council duties; and (8) Federal Interagency Coordinating Council (FICC) membership and duties. (Sec. 615) Directs the FICC to convene a panel of experts to develop recommendations for a model definition of developmental delay. Allows the use of funds for referring at risk infants and toddlers, in those States not currently serving them, to other IDEA services. Permits planning for transition to preschool services to begin up to six months before the child's third birthday, if parents and agencies agree. (Sec. 616) Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1996
Urges the Government of Iran to extend to the Baha'i community the rights guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the international covenants on human rights. Calls upon the President to continue to: (1) assert the U.S. Government's concern regarding Iran's violations of the rights of its citizens, including members of the Baha'i community, along with expressions of concern regarding the Iranian Government's support for international terrorism and its efforts to acquire weapons of mass destruction; (2) emphasize that the United States regards the human rights practices of the Iranian Government, particularly its treatment of the Baha'i community and other religious minorities, as a significant factor in the development of U.S.-Iranian relations; (3) urge the Iranian Government to emancipate the Baha'i community by granting those rights guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the international covenants on human rights; and (4) encourage other governments to continue to appeal to the Government of Iran, and to cooperate with other governments and international organizations, in efforts to protect the religious rights of the Baha'is and other minorities in Iran.
United States · United States Congress · 1 February 1996
Designates March 25, 1996, as Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1996
Commends the men and women who have served or are presently serving in the American Foreign Service and honors those who have given their lives in the line of duty. Designates the first Friday in May 1996 as American Foreign Service Day.
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1996
Clinical Research Enhancement Act of 1996 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the President to establish the President's Clinical Research Panel, as part of the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), to evaluate the status of the U.S. clinical research environment. Authorizes appropriations. Requires the Advisory Committee to the Director (of the National Institutes of Health (NIH)) on Clinical Research to report to the Director and to the Panel and to implement recommendations as the Committee determines necessary to remedy NIH clinical research deficiencies. Terminates the Committee five years after enactment of this Act. Requires the OSTP to review the compositions, functions, and outcomes of study section activities at all Federal agencies as such activities relate to clinical research proposals for investigator-initiated support. Authorizes appropriations. Requires the Director to undertake activities to: (1) support and expand NIH's clinical research involvement; (2) support and expand available resources; and (3) establish certain peer review mechanisms. Mandates grants for: (1) the establishment of general clinical research centers to provide the infrastructure for clinical research training and career enhancement; (2) clinical research career enhancement awards; and (3) innovative medical science awards to support individual clinical research projects. Authorizes appropriations. Increases the maximum aggregate number of contracts that may be made under existing provisions relating to: (1) undergraduate scholarships regarding professions needed by NIH; and (2) loan repayments regarding clinical researchers (currently, clinical researchers from disadvantaged backgrounds). Authorizes appropriations for the loan repayment program. Requires a health plan to cover the participation of individuals in investigational therapy in specified circumstances.
United States · United States Congress · 24 January 1996
Airliner Cabin Air Quality Act of 1996 - Amends Federal transportation law to prohibit smoking on all scheduled airline flight segments (currently, just on certain airline flight segments) in interstate or intrastate air transportation. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to require all domestic and foreign air carriers to prohibit smoking on any scheduled airline flight within the United States or between a place in the United States and a place outside of it.