United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1995
Morris K. Udall Parkinson's Research, Assistance, and Education Act of 1995 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to mandate a program for the conduct and support of research and training, the dissemination of health information, and other programs regarding Parkinson's disease. Establishes the Interagency Coordinating Committee on Parkinson's Disease. Requires Core Center Grants to encourage the development of innovative multidisciplinary research and provide training concerning Parkinson's, designating each grant recipient as a Morris K. Udall Center for Research on Parkinson's Disease. Authorizes establishment of the National Parkinson's Disease Data System to collect, store, analyze, retrieve, and disseminate data. Establishes: (1) the National Parkinson's Disease Information Clearinghouse; (2) a grant program to support scientists who have distinguished themselves in Parkinson's research; and (3) a national education program to foster a national focus on Parkinson's and the care of those with Parkinson's. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 4 April 1995
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Rail Investment Act of 1995 Title II: Local Rail Freight Assistance Rail Investment Act of 1995 - Title I: Rail Investment Act of 1995 - Rail Investment and Efficiency Act of 1995 - Amends Federal transportation law to add as goals for the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (AMTRAK) that, among other things, it manage its capital investment in such a way as to provide its customers with world class service and treat them with respect, courtesy, and dignity. (Sec. 104) Requires AMTRAK to include in its annual operations report to the President and to the Congress projections of anticipated and realized benefits of proposed and previously funded projects. (Sec. 105) Requires applications by a State, agency, or person for the institution of rail passenger service, or the retention of a route, train, or service which AMTRAK intends to discontinue, to include a statement that it agrees to pay in each year of service a portion of the long-term avoidable losses for each year (currently, short-term avoidable losses) of the operation of such service and the associated capital costs (currently, 50 percent of such costs). Directs the Secretary of Transportation to review and report to Congress on AMTRAK's State-assisted rail passenger services program. (Sec. 106) Directs AMTRAK to make any capital improvements for the Northeast Corridor improvement project program necessary for reliable, high-speed rail passenger service and enhancement of capacity for intercity and commuter passenger service. Repeals the current authorization of appropriations for specific projects of the program, as well as the general authorization for deferment of certain Northeast Corridor improvement projects in order to carry out others. (Sec. 107) Authorizes appropriations for: (1) AMTRAK operating expenses; (2) State requested rail passenger service; (3) capital investment; (4) construction expenses to convert the James A. Farley Post Office, New York City, into a train station and commercial center and for redevelopment of the Pennsylvania Station, New York City; (5) capital expenditures for the Northeast Corridor improvement project; and (6) certain mandatory payments. (Sec. 108) Legalizes conveyances of certain real property located in Reno, Nevada, by the Southern Pacific Transportation Company. (Sec. 109) Directs AMTRAK to report to the Congress on the feasibility of instituting rail passenger service between Kansas City, Missouri, and Omaha, Nebraska, as well as potential extensions of service in Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Oklahoma, and Kansas that might enhance the ridership or revenues of AMTRAK service. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 110) Declares, for purposes of any State or local requirement for a permit or other approval for construction of any AMTRAK improvement under the Northeast Corridor Improvement Project, that the exemptions and procedures applicable to a Federal project shall apply. (Sec. 111) Directs AMTRAK to construct the electrification system between Boston, Massachusetts, and New Haven, Connecticut, to accommodate the installation of a third mainline track between Davisville and the Boston Switch at Central Falls, Rhode Island, to be used for double-stack and tri-level automobile freight service to and from the Port of Davisville. (Sec. 112) Establishes the Capital and Equipment Acquisition Account to: (1) acquire passenger equipment and locomotives; and (2) encourage State and local investment in facilities and equipment used to provide intercity rail passenger service. (Sec. 113) Revises the composition of the board of directors of AMTRAK to include one member specially qualified to represent the interests of rail passengers, who shall be selected from a list of three qualified individuals recommended by the National Association of Railroad Passengers. (Sec. 114) Directs AMTRAK to implement a pilot program to increase non-Federal revenues through the sale of concessions and use of vending machines on trains and the sale of advertising space on trains and in rail stations. (Sec. 115) Requires AMTRAK to cooperate with the Virginia State Department of Transportation in studying the feasibility of reestablishing rail service between Washington, D.C., and Bristol, Virginia. (Sec. 116) Authorizes AMTRAK and motor carriers of passengers to: (1) combine their respective services and facilities to the public as a means of increasing revenues; and (2) coordinate schedules, routes, rates, reservations, and ticketing to provide for enhanced intermodal surface transportation. (Sec. 117) Directs AMTRAK, upon completion of the preliminary engineering and design for the rail connection between North Station and South Station in Boston, Massachusetts, to develop a plan for the construction of the Central Artery Rail Link to enable intercity and intracity passenger service between such points. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 118) Directs AMTRAK to form a task force to consider recommendations for improving emergency training and performance of on-board service and operating crew members. Requires the task force to report to specified congressional committees on actions implemented to date and recommended for the future. Title II: Local Rail Freight Assistance - Authorizes appropriations for local rail service assistance. (Sec. 202) Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to provide disaster assistance for the repair of rail lines damaged as a result of a disaster. (Sec. 203) Authorizes the use of local rail freight assistance for the cost of: (1) closing or improving a railroad grade crossing or series of such crossings; and (2) creating a State supervised grain car pool. (Sec. 205) Requires amounts appropriated to AMTRAK to be paid on the first day of the fiscal year. (Sec. 206) Repeals specified sections of Federal transportation law designated obsolete or unnecessary.
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1995
Urges the executive branch to: (1) reiterate to the claimants in the South China Sea that the United States does not take a position on any individual claim; and (2) declare the active support of the United States for the 1992 Manila Declaration of the Association of South East Asian Nations. Calls upon all the claimants: (1) to observe the Declaration's provisions; (2) refrain from using military force to assert or expand territorial claims in the South China Sea; and (3) scrupulously observe the January 1995 status quo ante pending any negotiations or resolution of the conflicts between such claimants over such claims.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1995
Ryan White CARE Reauthorization Act of 1995 - Amends title XXVI (HIV Health Care Services Program) of the Public Health Service Act regarding emergency relief for areas with a substantial need for services. Changes requirements for grants to metropolitan areas having large numbers of cases of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Modifies the composition, chairperson requirements, and duties of local human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) health services planning councils. Revises requirements for supplemental grants. Alters the method for determining the amount of each grant, the mandated uses of the grants, and application requirements. Allows a single application for initial and supplemental grants and authorizes both to be made as a single grant. Mandates (currently, allows) technical assistance. Authorizes planning grants. Amends provisions relating to the care grant program to change the uses of HIV care consortia grants and consortium application requirements. Mandates establishment of a recommended minimum formulary of pharmaceutical drug therapies approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Revises: (1) State duties in using grant funds to provide treatments; (2) State application requirements; and (3) planning, evaluation, and administration requirements. Mandates (currently, allows) technical assistance. Mandates grievance procedures to address allegations of egregious violations of title XXVI. Requires coordination of the planning and implementation of Federal HIV programs by the Health Resources and Services Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Amends early intervention services provisions to: (1) require grant recipients to provide a continuum of primary care; and (2) modify other requirements regarding uses of grant funds. Authorizes planning grants to entities that are not direct primary care providers to enable them to provide HIV primary care services. Authorizes appropriations for early intervention grants. Replaces provisions mandating demonstration grants for research and services for pediatric AIDS patients with provisions mandating grants for primary care for out-patient care and support services to children, youth, women with HIV disease, and the families of those individuals and for facilitating the participation of such individuals in research. Requires procedures for the protection of human subjects. Prohibits conditioning services on research participation. Authorizes appropriations. Reserves a specified portion of the amounts appropriated under other parts of title XXVI to administer a special projects of national significance program to award direct grants for special programs for the care and treatment of individuals with HIV disease. Repeals current provisions relating to special projects of national significance. Replaces provisions of the Public Health Service Act authorizing grants and contracts to train the faculty of specified types of health professions schools regarding providing for the health care needs of individuals with HIV disease with provisions authorizing grants and contracts to train health personnel, including community providers, in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of HIV infection and disease. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 4) Amends title XXVI provisions relating to emergency relief for areas with a substantial need for services to modify the formula for determining the amount of grants. (Sec. 5) Amends provisions relating to the care grant program to change the formula regarding minimum grant allotments. (Sec. 6) Authorizes appropriations to make grants under title XXVI provisions relating to: (1) emergency relief for areas with a substantial need for services; and (2) the care grant program. Mandates development and implementation of a methodology for adjusting the percentages allocated to those parts. Repeals existing authorizations of appropriations for those parts.
United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1995
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; 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 · 23 March 1995
Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Amendments Act of 1995 - Modifies the boundaries of the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor. Requires the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Commission to revise the Cultural Heritage and Land Management Plan to address the boundary change and include a natural resource inventory of areas or features that should be protected, restored, managed, or acquired because of their contribution to the understanding of national cultural landscape values. Prohibits changes other than minor revisions in the approved plan as amended without the approval of the Secretary of the Interior. Extends the date of termination of the Commission until ten years after this Act's enactment, subject to specified conditions. Directs the Secretary to approve an additional extension if the Secretary finds that: (1) the Governors of Massachusetts and Rhode Island provide adequate assurances of continued tangible contribution and effective policy support toward achieving the purposes of the Corridor; and (2) the Commission is effectively assisting Federal, State, and local authorities to retain, enhance, and interpret the distinctive character and nationally significant resources of the Corridor. Authorizes the Secretary to undertake a limited program of financial assistance for the purpose of providing funds for the preservation and restoration of structures on or eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places within the Corridor which exhibit national significance or provide a wide spectrum of historic, recreational, or environmental education opportunities to the general public. Specifies that nothing in the Act establishing the Corridor shall be construed to affect or authorize the Commission to interfere with: (1) the rights of any person with respect to private property; or (2) any local zoning ordinance or land use plan of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or a political subdivision of such Commonwealth. Increases and extends the authorization of appropriations under the Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1995
Calls upon the President to express strong U.S. opposition to Turkey's invasion of northern Iraq and urges the United States, at the United Nations Security Council, to condemn Turkey's illegal act of aggression and bring about an immediate and unconditional withdrawal. Denounces Turkey's consistent pattern of human rights violations against ethnic Kurds and condemns acts of terror by PKK forces against Turkish civilian and military targets. Supports the maintenance of Operation Provide Comfort and the continuation of other non-governmental humanitarian assistance for the Kurds of northern Iraq.
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1995
Authorizes the awarding of the Purple Heart to persons serving with the armed forces who were wounded while being taken prisoner or held captive before April 25, 1962. Prohibits such award to a person convicted by a competent court of rendering assistance to any U.S. enemy.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1995
Amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice to deny a member of the armed forces sentenced by a court-martial to confinement and a dishonorable or bad conduct discharge or dismissal entitlement to military pay and allowances for any period after such sentence. Restores such entitlement if the sentence is disapproved or set aside. Authorizes the Secretary of the executive department concerned to pay transitional compensation to any spouse, dependent child, or former spouse of a member during any period in which the member's entitlement to pay and allowances is terminated under this Act. Allows such Secretary to pay emergency transitional assistance to a person for up to 45 days while the person's application for transitional compensation is pending approval.
United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1995
Trade Adjustment Assistance Program Improvement Act of 1995 - Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to increase from 14 to 45 the number of days an adversely affected worker may have a scheduled break in a training program and still be treated as participating in the program for purposes of trade assistance adjustment eligibility.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1995
Balanced Budget Act of 1995 - Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to make it out of order to consider any concurrent resolution on the budget unless the resolution: (1) sets forth a balanced budget (excluding the receipts and disbursements of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund) by FY 2002 or the earliest possible fiscal year; (2) sets forth appropriate budgetary levels; and (3) includes specific reconciliation instructions. Requires a three-fifths majority vote in the Senate to waive such point of order. Suspends the provisions of this Act in the event of war or congressionally-declared low economic growth.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1995
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Amendments Act of 1995 - Amends the Metropolitan Washington Airports Act of 1986 to abolish the Board of Review of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority. (Sec. 3) Increases from one to seven the number of persons on the board of directors of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority whom the President must appoint with the advice and consent of the Senate. Requires ten votes (currently, seven) to approve bond issues and the annual budget. Staggers the terms of presidential appointees to the board of directors. (Sec. 4) Ratifies and deems valid any action taken by the Board of Review prior to the amendments made by this Act. (Sec. 5) Requires the board of directors, including any members appointed under this Act, to continue to meet and act until necessary conforming changes in State law are made in order that the reconstituted board functions without interruption. (Sec. 6) Declares that nothing in this Act shall affect the treatment of the Airports Authority under Federal, State, or local tax law. (Sec. 7) Requires the Secretary of Transportation to appoint an advisory group of three non-Federal individuals to review: (1) the lease arrangements of Metropolitan Washington Airports with the Airports Authority; and (2) any renegotiation of such lease, including subleases, any change in the lease terms or conditions, and the amount of any payments made or received under it. Requires such lease to provide for the Airports Authority to pay to the Airport and Airway Trust Fund (currently, to the general fund of the Treasury) a specified annual amount.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1995
Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) obstetrician-gynecologists should be included as primary care providers for women in Federal laws relating to the provision of health care; and (2) legislative proposals that define primary care should include primary care services performed by obstetrician-gynecologists in such definition.
United States · United States Congress · 7 March 1995
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Meat Inspection Title II: Poultry Inspection Family Food Protection Act of 1995 - Title I: Meat Inspection - Amends the Federal Meat Inspection Act to direct the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) to issue regulations to control and reduce human pathogens and other harmful substances in meat and meat food products. Considers as adulterated a carcass or meat or meat food product prepared at an official establishment (as defined by this Act) for commercial distribution that is not in compliance with such regulations. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to issue regulatory limits for human pathogens and other harmful substances in meat or meat food products. Directs the Secretary to: (1) develop and administer surveillance and sampling systems for foodborne illnesses and adulterating substances; (2) issue hazard control regulations for official establishments; (3) convene a meat and poultry safety advisory board; and (4) establish voluntary guidelines for retail meat handling, processing, and storage. Authorizes State enforcement for in-State violations. Directs the Secretary to prescribe livestock traceback methods to permit animal and establishment identification. Authorizes the Secretary to prohibit or restrict animal entry into or from a slaughtering establishment. Requires a preparer who has a reasonable belief that any carcass, meat, or meat food product is adulterated or misbranded to notify the Secretary. Authorizes the Secretary to recall such products. Authorizes civil penalties for violations of this title. Provides whistleblower protection. Title II: Poultry Inspection - Amends the Poultry Products Inspection Act to provide similar provisions to title I.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1995
Interstate Compact - Grants congressional consent to the Northeast Interstate Dairy Compact entered into among the States of Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts to assure the viability of dairy farming in the northeast and to assure consumers of an adequate, local milk supply. Limits Compact regulatory authority to Class I milk. Authorizes Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia to join under specified conditions. Requires the Compact Commission to remove overproduction incentives. Sets forth Compact provisions.
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1995
Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to redefine legitimate or illegitimate children as children born in or out of wedlock, respectively, for purposes of such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 16 February 1995
Ammunition Safety Act of 1995 - Amends the Federal criminal code to include persons selling ammunition within the definition of "dealer" for purposes of Federal firearms laws. Subjects dealers in ammunition to licensing requirements applicable to firearms dealers. Sets a $10 per year license fee for dealers in ammunition other than ammunition for destructive devices. Applies to ammunition specified prohibitions currently applicable to importing, manufacturing, dealing in, transporting, or receiving firearms without a license. Increases penalties for specified violations of Federal firearms provisions. Subjects any person at least 18 years of age who violates provisions regarding shipping, transporting, possessing, or receiving a firearm or ammunition by specified categories of persons (such as fugitives and illegal aliens) to twice the maximum punishment authorized and at least twice any term of supervised release, except to the extent a greater minimum sentence is otherwise provided. Makes specified provisions of the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act applicable to the transfer of ammunition. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury: (1) to establish uniform standards for testing and rating the destructive capacity of projectiles capable of being used in handguns; (2) utilizing such standards, to establish performance-based standards to define the rating of "armor piercing ammunition" based on the rating at which the projectiles pierce armor; and (3) at the expense of the ammunition manufacturer seeking to sell a particular type of ammunition, to test and rate the destructive capacity of the ammunition utilizing such standards. Defines "armor piercing ammunition" to include any projectile determined to have a destructive capacity rating higher than the threshold established, in addition to the composition-based determination. Authorizes the Congress to exempt specific ammunition designed for sporting purposes from such definition. Prohibits the possession or use of armor piercing ammunition, with exceptions. Permits the manufacture, importation, or use of any projectile that has been proven, by testing performed at the expense of the manufacturer, to have a lower rating threshold than armor piercing ammunition.
United States · United States Congress · 16 February 1995
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Improvements to the Child Support Collection System Title II: Effect of Enactment Interstate Child Support Responsibility Act of 1995 - Title I: Improvements to the Child Support Collection System - Subtitle A: Eligibility and Other Matters Concerning Title IV-D Program Clients - Amends part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) of title IV of the Social Security Act (SSA) to require States to have statutorily prescribed procedures to: (1) record child support orders in a central case registry; and (2) collect child support payments through a centralized collections unit. (Sec. 101) Revises the guidelines for: (1) State plans for child and spousal support; and (2) payments distribution. (Sec. 103) Requires State plans to establish procedural guidelines for: (1) notification of all proceedings and orders affecting child support obligations; and (2) privacy safeguards regarding paternity and child support actions. Subtitle B: Program Administration and Funding - Revises the formula for: (1) Federal matching payments to the States; and (2) incentive adjustments to the Federal matching rate. (Sec. 113) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to include prescribed procedures for State reviews and audits. Revises the guidelines for Federal evaluation and audit of State programs governing paternity, child and spousal support, and parent location. (Sec. 115) Revises the automated data processing requirements for State plans to mandate a single statewide automated data processing and information retrieval system which can perform specified tasks. (Sec. 116) Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) to conduct staffing studies of each State child support enforcement program and to report the results to the Congress. (Sec. 117) Makes funds available to the Secretary for: (1) training of Federal and State staff, research and demonstration programs, and special projects of regional and national significance; and (2) operation of the Federal Parent Locator Service. Subtitle C: Locate and Case Tracking - Mandates that the single statewide automated data system function as a single central case registry of State-provided services and support orders. Delineates contents of case records and data matching activities, including data exchange with sister States. (Sec. 122) Requires State plans to include a centralized, automated unit for the collection and disbursement of support payments. (Sec. 123) Requires the States to have statutorily prescribed procedures: (1) for mandatory income withholding for support payments subject to enforcement; and (2) under which child support orders issued before October 1, 1996, shall become subject to withholding from wages if arrearages occur, without the need for a judicial or administrative hearing. Revises the procedural guidelines for income withholding for child support enforcement. (Sec. 125) Revises the Federal Parent Locator Service to add kinds of information which may be transmitted to locate individuals and assets for purposes of establishing parentage and executing child support obligations. Requires the Secretary to establish in the Service a Data Bank of Child Support Orders and an automated directory of New Hires. (Sec. 126) Requires State plans to include procedures for recording social security numbers on certain family legal documents and records, including all applications for motor vehicle licenses and professional licenses. Subtitle D: Streamlining and Uniformity of Procedures - Requires each State to have the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act in effect as of January 1, 1997. (Sec. 132) Amends the Federal judicial code to revise the procedures for a court to apply when determining which State order to recognize for purposes of continuing, exclusive jurisdiction and enforcement for child support orders. (Sec. 133) Amends SSA title IV part D to revise State plan guidelines for mandatory expedited administrative and judicial procedures to include: (1) authorized genetic testing to establish paternity; and (2) the securing of assets and increasing of monthly payments to satisfy a support arrearage. Subtitle E: Paternity Establishment - Revises the guidelines for statutorily prescribed procedures governing genetic testing and outreach for voluntary paternity acknowledgment. Subtitle F: Establishment and Modification of Support Orders - Establishes the National Child Support Guidelines Commission to determine: (1) whether it is appropriate to develop a national child support guideline; or (2) based on a study of various guideline models, the benefits and deficiencies of such models and any needed improvements. (Sec. 152) Revises the requirements for State plan procedures for the review and adjustment of support orders. Subtitle G: Enforcement of Support Orders - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise the priority of refund distribution with respect to past-due support owed to individuals. (Sec. 163) Amends SSA title IV part D to revise procedural guidelines for: (1) consent by the United States to income withholding, garnishment, and similar proceedings for enforcement of child support and alimony obligations of current and retired Federal employees; and (2) enforcement of child support obligations of current and retired members of the armed forces. (Sec. 165) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures for: (1) placing liens for child support arrearages on motor vehicle titles of the debtor; (2) voiding fraudulent transfers by a child support debtor; (3) suspending any driver's, business, or occupational license issued to any person who owes past-due child support; (4) reporting to credit bureaus the name of the parent in arrears for child support; (5) extending the statute of limitations for collection on child support arrearages; and (6) calculating interest or penalties on such arrearage. (Sec. 171) Prescribes procedural guidelines for passport denial (including revocation) upon certification of nonpayment of child support. (Sec. 172) Expresses the sense of the Congress that the United States should ratify the United Nations Convention of 1956. Requires State plans to provide that the State must treat international child support cases as interstate cases. Subtitle H: Medical Support - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 to include within the definition of medical child support order an order issued through a State administrative process. Subtitle I: Access and Visitation Programs - Authorizes State grants to States to establish and administer programs to facilitate absent parents' access and visitation programs. Authorizes appropriations. Title II: Effect of Enactment - Sets forth effective dates for this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 16 February 1995
Fish and Wildlife Management Act of 1995 - Makes technical changes to the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act. Amends the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966 to designate a portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska as a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System.
United States · United States Congress · 15 February 1995
Authorizes the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity to establish a memorial to Martin Luther King, Jr., in the District of Columbia and its environs. Prohibits the United States from paying any expense of establishing the memorial.
United States · United States Congress · 14 February 1995
Working Wage Increase Act of 1995 - Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to increase the minimum wage per hour to: (1) $4.70 during the year beginning July 4, 1995; and (2) $5.15 after July 3, 1996.
United States · United States Congress · 1 February 1995
National Park Service Concession Policy Reform Act of 1995 - Repeals the Concessions Policy Act of 1965. (Sec. 5) Directs the Secretary of the Interior to authorize, under specified conditions, private persons, corporations, or other entities to provide and operate such facilities and services as the Secretary deems necessary and appropriate in the National Park System (NPS). (Sec. 6) Authorizes the Secretary, upon request and under specified criteria, to allow such entities to provide services to park visitors other than by award of a concession contract or permit. Requires the provision of such services to have minimal impact on park resources and values and to be consistent with park purposes. Provides a two-year term limit for the provision of such services. (Sec. 7) Requires a concession contract to be awarded to the person submitting the best proposal through a competitive selection process to be established by the Secretary. Allows waiver of such procedures and award of a temporary contract to avoid interruption of services. Requires the Secretary to publish a notice of availability for a prospectus soliciting proposals for contracts for concessions at a Park specifying minimum contract requirements and contract terms and conditions. Requires congressional notification of any proposed contract with anticipated gross receipts exceeding $5 million or of a duration of ten or more years. Prohibits the Secretary from granting a preferential right to a concessioner to: (1) renew concession contracts under this Act, with exceptions; or (2) provide new or additional services at a park. Allows such preferential rights to be granted for certain outfitting and guide contracts and certain contracts with annual gross receipts of under $500,000. (Sec. 8) Sets forth criteria for determining franchise fees, including fees for multiple franchise contracts within a park. (Sec. 9) Requires all fees to be: (1) covered into a special Treasury account established for reallocation to NPS units for resource management and protection, maintenance activities, interpretation, and research; or (2) deposited into a Park Improvement Fund established by the concessioner (as directed by the Secretary) from which expenditures shall be made for park activities and projects. Requires: (1) an annual statement from the concessioner to the Secretary reflecting total activity in the Fund for the preceding fiscal year; and (2) an annual report from the Secretary to specified congressional committees concerning Fund expenditures. (Sec. 10) Establishes a maximum: (1) ten-year duration for a concessions contract, provided that the Secretary may award a contract for up to 20 years if determined necessary; and (2) two-year duration for a temporary contract. (Sec. 11) Requires the approval of the Secretary and congressional notification before a concession contract can be transferred, assigned, sold, or conveyed and sets forth conditions that preclude such conveyance. (Sec. 12) Grants possessory interest to: (1) concessioners who have commenced acquisition or construction of any structure on Federal land within a park before the enactment of this Act; and (2) concessioners who construct or acquire an improvement on U.S. land within a Park after enactment of this Act. (Sec. 13) Places limitations on a concessioner's rates and charges to the public. (Sec. 14) Directs the Secretary to: (1) periodically evaluate the performance of each concessioner under contract; (2) terminate a contract if a concessioner fails, within the prescribed time, to meet minimum requirements identified in a notice of unsatisfactory performance; and (3) notify specified congressional committees of each unsatisfactory rating and each contract terminated. (Sec. 15) Provides that the Comptroller General of the United States shall, until the expiration of five calendar years after the close of the business year for each concessioner, have access to and the right to examine any pertinent books, documents, papers, and records of the concessioner related to the contracts. (Sec. 16) Exempts contracts awarded by the Secretary under this Act from certain provisions of Federal law with respect to the leasing of U.S. buildings and properties. (Sec. 18) Requires the Inspector General of the Department of the Interior to submit biannual reports to specified congressional committees on the implementation of this Act and its effect on facilities operated pursuant to concession contracts and on visitor services. (Sec. 19) Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1995
Counterfeiting and Money Laundering Deterrence Act of 1995 - Amends Federal law to direct the Secretary of the Treasury to design and designate a counterfeit-resistant domestic use $100 denomination bill and nondomestic use $100 denomination bill which shall be exchanged for existing currency according to prescribed guidelines.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1995
Veterans' Tax Fairness Act of 1995 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from gross income any veterans' allowance or benefit administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1995
Constitutional Amendment - Declares that equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State on account of sex.
United States · United States Congress · 24 January 1995
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: High Seas Fisheries Licensing Title II: Implementation of Convention on Future Multilateral Cooperation in the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Title III: Atlantic Tunas Convention Act Title IV: Fishermen's Protective Act Title V: Fisheries Enforcement in Central Sea of Okhotsk Title VI: Driftnet Moratorium Title VII: Governing International Fishery Agreement Fisheries Act of 1995 - Title I: High Seas Fisheries Licensing - High Seas Fisheries Licensing Act of 1995 - Prohibits a high seas vessel from engaging in harvesting operations on the high seas unless the vessel has on board a valid license issued under this Act. Makes any U.S. vessel eligible to receive such a license unless the vessel was previously authorized to be used for fishing on the high seas by a foreign nation and such nation suspended or, within the last three years preceding application for a license, withdrew such authorization because the vessel undermined the effectiveness of international conservation and management measures. Makes such restriction inapplicable in cases where the Secretary of Commerce determines that issuing a license would not subvert the Agreement to Promote Compliance with International Conservation and Management Measures by Fishing Vessels on the High Seas. Sets forth application and fee provisions. (Sec. 105) Directs the Secretary to maintain a record of high seas vessels issued licenses under this Act and to notify the flag State if a foreign fishing vessel has engaged in activities undermining the effectiveness of international conservation and management measures. (Sec. 106) Sets forth enforcement and penalty provisions. Title II: Implementation of Convention on Future Multilateral Cooperation in the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries - Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Convention Act of 1995 - Provides for the implementation of the Convention on Future Multilateral Cooperation in the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries, including provisions regarding: (1) appointment of U.S. representatives and alternate representatives as Commissioners and on the Scientific Council; (2) handling of requests for scientific advice; (3) the authorities of the Secretary of State; and (4) cooperation between various agencies, private institutions, and organizations. (Sec. 207) Makes certain actions unlawful, including: (1) violating any regulation issued under this Act or any measure legally binding on the United States under the Convention; (2) resisting, impeding, intimidating, or interfering with certain actions; and (3) transporting, selling, or possessing fish taken in violation of these provisions. Provides for: (1) civil and criminal penalties, permit sanctions, and forfeiture of vessels, cargo, and fish; (2) enforcement by the Coast Guard; and (3) U.S. district court exclusive jurisdiction. (Sec. 208) Directs the Secretaries of State and Commerce to jointly establish a consultative committee on issues related to the Convention and the agreement with Canada. (Sec. 211) Authorizes appropriations. Title III: Atlantic Tunas Convention Act - Atlantic Tunas Convention Authorization Act of 1995 - Amends the Atlantic Tunas Convention Act of 1975 to require a report to specified congressional committees on the current research and monitoring activities on Atlantic bluefin tuna and other highly migratory species. (Sec. 302) Mandates a comprehensive research program to support the conservation and management of Atlantic bluefin tuna and other highly migratory species, including identifying and defining the range of stocks. Amends Federal law to remove a provision authorizing appropriations for a currently-mandated biennial report on bluefin tuna. (Sec. 303) Regulates operational matters for the advisory committee established by the Act, including regarding quorums, a chairman, meetings, and administrative and technical support. (Sec. 304) Prohibits the promulgation of regulations to increase or decrease fishery mortality levels. (Sec. 305) Makes the civil penalty and permit sanctions of the Magnuson Fishery Conservation and Management Act applicable to violations of this Act. (Sec. 306) Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 307) Directs the Secretary of Commerce to submit a report annually to specified congressional committees that: (1) details for the previous ten years the catches and exports to the United States of highly migratory species from nations fishing on Atlantic stocks that are subject to management by the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas; (2) identifies those fishing nations whose harvests are inconsistent with existing international conservation and management programs; and (3) describes reporting requirements to ensure that imported fish are in compliance with international management measures. Provides for the Secretary to promulgate necessary enforcement regulations with respect to those nations that do not comply with Commission recommendations. (Sec. 308) Provides for the Secretary to implement the recommendations of the Commission regarding yellowfin tuna. Title IV: Fishermen's Protective Act - Amends the Fisherman's Protective Act of 1967 to direct the Secretary of State to reimburse vessel owners for fees paid to a foreign government to navigate in its waters if such fees are regarded by the United States as being inconsistent with international law. Provides for heads of Federal agencies to impose reciprocal conditions on nations that impose conditions on United States fishing vessels that are inconsistent with international law. (Sec. 403) Extends the Act's termination date from October 1, 1993, to October 1, 2000. Title V: Fisheries Enforcement in Central Sea of Okhotsk - Sea of Okhotsk Fisheries Enforcement Act of 1995 - Amends the Central Bering Sea Fisheries Enforcement Act of 1992 to prohibit U.S. vessels and nationals from fishing in the Central Sea of Okhotsk except in accordance with an international fishery agreement to which the United States and the Russian Federation are parties. Title VI: Driftnet Moratorium - High Seas Driftnet Fishing Moratorium Protection Act - Prohibits the United States from entering into any international agreement with respect to fisheries, marine resources, the use of the high seas, or trade in fish or fish products that would prevent full implementation of the global moratorium on large-scale driftnet fishing on the high seas, as such moratorium is expressed in a certain United Nations (U.N.) resolution. (Sec. 604) Directs the Secretary of State to seek to enhance the implementation and effectiveness of U.N. resolutions and decisions regarding the moratorium on large-scale driftnet fishing on the high seas through appropriate international agreements and organizations. (Sec. 606) Requires the President to utilize appropriate assets of the Federal Government to detect, monitor, and prevent violations of such U.N. moratoriums. Title VII: Governing International Fishery Agreement - Declares that the Congress approves the governing international fishery agreement between the United States and the Republic of Estonia as contained in message from the President on January 19, 1995.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1995
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Taxpayer Advocate Title II: Modifications to Installment Agreement Provisions Title III: Interest Title IV: Joint Returns Title V: Collection Activities Title VI: Information Returns Title VII: Modifications to Penalty for Failure to Collect and Pay Over Tax Title VIII: Awarding of Costs and Certain Fees Title IX: Other Provisions Title X: Form Modifications; Studies Subtitle A: Form Modifications Subtitle B: Studies Taxpayer Bill of Rights 2 - Title I: Taxpayer Advocate - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish in the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) the Office of Taxpayer Advocate, headed by the Taxpayer Advocate, to: (1) assist taxpayers in resolving problems with the IRS; (2) identify areas in which taxpayers have problems in dealings with the IRS; (3) propose changes in the administrative practices of the IRS to mitigate such problems; and (4) identify potential legislative changes which may be appropriate to mitigate such problems. Requires the Commissioner of Internal Revenue to establish procedures requiring a formal response to all recommendations submitted to the Commissioner by the Taxpayer Advocate. Replaces the Office of the Ombudsman with the Office of the Taxpayer Advocate. (Sec. 102) Revises the terms of a Taxpayer Assistance Order to: (1) allow the Order to require the Secretary of the Treasury to act within a specified time period; and (2) require the Secretary to take certain actions (currently, only to cease or refrain from taking certain actions). Title II: Modifications to Installment Agreement Provisions - Grants certain taxpayers the right to an installment agreement for the payment of tax liability less than $10,000. (Sec. 202) Suspends any penalties during the period the installment agreement is in effect. (Sec. 203) Requires prior notification to taxpayers under an installment agreement to pay tax liability before altering, modifying, or terminating such an agreement. (Sec. 204) Provides for administrative review of denials of requests for, or termination of, installment agreements. Title III: Interest - Authorizes the abatement of interest in the case of an assessment due to the unreasonable error or delay of an IRS act. (Sec. 302) Extends from ten to 21 days the period for which interest will not be imposed after notice and demand for payment, if such payment is less than $100,000. Title IV: Joint Returns - Allows the disclosure of collection activities to an individual requesting such information in the case of a joint return where such individual is no longer married to or resides in the same household as the other joint filer. (Sec. 402) Removes limitations on filing a joint return after filing separate returns. Title V: Collection Activities - Authorizes the Secretary, in certain cases, to: (1) withdraw a notice of a lien; (2) return property that has been levied upon; and (3) offer compromises in civil or criminal cases. Requires the Secretary to provide a copy of such notice of withdrawal to the taxpayer and, at the request of the taxpayer, to make reasonable efforts to notify credit reporting agencies and financial institutions of such withdrawal notice. (Sec. 503) Requires prior notification to the taxpayer that the taxpayer is under examination and an explanation of the process, with exceptions. (Sec. 504) Increases the dollar limit on the recovery of civil damages for unauthorized collection actions. (Sec. 505) Revises provisions with respect to a designated summons concerning the standard of review and notice requirements for issuance. Title VI: Information Returns - Requires payee statements to provide the phone number of the person providing payment. (Sec. 602) Establishes civil damages for the fraudulent filing of information returns. (Sec. 603) Requires the Secretary, in any court proceeding where a taxpayer asserts a reasonable dispute with respect to income reported on an information return filed by a third party and the taxpayer has fully cooperated with the Secretary, to present reasonable and probative information concerning such deficiency in addition to such return. Title VII: Modifications to Penalty for Failure to Collect and Pay Over Tax - Establishes preliminary notice requirements for failure to pay tax. (Sec. 702) Directs the Secretary to: (1) disclose certain information where more than one person is liable for a penalty; and (2) ensure that IRS employees are aware of their responsibilities under the tax depository system, the circumstances under which they may be liable for penalties, and reporting responsibilities. (Sec. 703) Exempts unpaid, volunteer board members of tax-exempt organizations who do not have actual knowledge of the failure on which such penalties are imposed from collection penalties. Title VIII: Awarding of Costs and Certain Fees - Authorizes a taxpayer who substantially prevails on a claim to file a motion for an order requiring the disclosure of all information and copies of relevant records in the possession of the IRS regarding such taxpayer's case and the substantial justification for the position taken by the IRS. (Sec. 802) Increases the limit on attorney fees. (Sec. 803) Provides that any failure to agree to an extension of time for the assessment of any tax shall not be taken into account in determining whether a prevailing party has exhausted all administrative remedies. Title IX: Other Provisions - Revises provisions on the required content of tax due, deficiency, and other notices. (Sec. 902) Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) treatment of substitute returns under section 6651 (relating to failure to file a tax return or to pay tax); (2) prospective application of Treasury Department regulations; and (3) required notice to the taxpayer of payments that the Secretary cannot associate with any outstanding tax liability of such taxpayer. (Sec. 905) Authorizes a taxpayer to bring a civil damage suit against the United States if any U.S. officer or employee intentionally compromises the determination or collection of any tax due from an attorney, certified public accountant (CPA), or enrolled agent representing a taxpayer in exchange for information conveyed by the taxpayer for purposes of obtaining advice concerning tax liability, except where conveyed for the purpose of perpetrating a fraud or crime. Title X: Form Modifications; Studies - Subtitle A: Form Modifications - Directs the Secretary to: (1) take steps to ensure that taxpayers are aware of provisions of the Internal Revenue Code permitting payment of tax in installments, extensions, and compromises of tax liability; (2) provide improved procedures for taxpayers to notify the Secretary of changes in names and addresses; and (3) include in the IRS publication entitled "Your Rights As a Taxpayer" a section on the rights and responsibilities of divorced individuals. Subtitle B: Studies - Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish a one-year pilot program for appeals of enforcement actions to the Appeals Division of the IRS; (2) study ways to assist the elderly, physically impaired, foreign-language speaking, and other taxpayers with special needs to comply with the internal revenue laws; and (3) report to the tax-writing committees on the IRS's taxpayer-rights education program and on all cases involving complaints about misconduct of IRS employees. (Sec. 1015) Requires the Comptroller General to conduct: (1) a study on IRS efforts to notify taxpayers of tax deficiencies; and (2) annual studies of the accuracy of 25 of the most commonly used IRS forms, notices, and publications.
United States · United States Congress · 20 January 1995
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the U.S. Attorney General should fully enforce the law and protect persons seeking to provide or obtain, or assist in providing or obtaining, reproductive health services from violent attack. Specifies that nothing in this Act shall be construed to prohibit any expressive conduct (including peaceful picketing or other peaceful demonstration) protected from legal prohibition by the First Amendment to the Constitution.
United States · United States Congress · 18 January 1995
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Private Securities Litigation Title II: Financial Disclosure Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 - Title I: Private Securities Litigation - Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the Act) to prohibit brokers or dealers from soliciting or accepting referral fees from an attorney for obtaining the representation of a customer in any implied private action. Prohibits the use of disgorgement funds resulting from actions brought by the Securities Exchange Commission (the Commission) to pay legal expenses incurred by private parties seeking distribution of such funds. Modifies the guidelines for class action litigation, including: (1) recovery by named plaintiffs in the same manner as all other members of the class; (2) court determination of conflicts of interest on the part of counsel with a beneficial interest in the securities that are the subject of the litigation; (3) restrictions on settlements under seal; (4) restrictions on payment of attorney's fees from settlement funds; (5) disclosure of settlement terms to class members; (6) special verdicts; and (7) the threshold enabling a plaintiff to obtain certification as representative for the class. Prescribes procedural guidelines for alternative dispute resolution. Establishes a limitations period for implied private rights of action. Provides for a court-appointed guardian ad litem or class action steering committee to oversee counsel and settlement offers for the plaintiff class. Delineates the requirements for securities fraud actions. Amends the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations statute to exclude from its purview an action involving fraud in the sale of securities. Title II: Financial Disclosure - Directs the Commission to re-examine the regulatory and judicial framework with respect to predictive statements ("forward-looking statements") concerning the future economic performance of an issuer of securities. Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to prescribe litigation procedures governing safe harbors for forward-looking statements. Modifies requirements for audits conducted by an independent public accountant of an issuer's financial statements to include procedures to: (1) detect illegal acts; (2) identify related party transactions material to financial statements; and (3) evaluate an issuer's ability to continue as a going concern. Sets forth notification and reporting guidelines for a public accountant who detects illegal activities during the course of an audit. Limits such auditor's liability for complying with such guidelines. Establishes civil penalties for an auditor's noncompliance with this Act. Modifies the allocation of damages scheme to distinguish between primary degrees of responsibility and the application of proportionate liability. Directs the Commission to establish a Public Auditing Self-Disciplinary Board (the Board). Prohibits a public accounting firm from furnishing an accountant's report on any document required to be filed with the Commission unless it has registered with the Board. Requires the Board to establish guidelines for: (1) investigations and disciplinary proceedings against public accounting firms; and (2) criteria for certification of public accountant peer review organizations. Grants the Commission responsibility for oversight of the Board. Includes within Board jurisdiction a foreign public accounting firm that furnishes accountant's reports on any document required to be filed with the Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 18 January 1995
Higher Education Tax Relief Act of 1995 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax deduction for the sum of qualified higher education expenses and interest on qualified higher education loans. Provides limitations on both amounts. Allows such deduction in computing adjusted gross income.
United States · United States Congress · 13 January 1995
Humanitarian Aid Corridor Act - Prohibits funds for foreign assistance from being made available for any country whose government prohibits or restricts the transport or delivery of U.S. humanitarian assistance. Waives such prohibition if the President notifies the Congress that providing such assistance is in the national security interest. Provides for a resumption of assistance when the President certifies to the Speaker of the House and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that such country is no longer prohibiting or restricting such transports or deliveries.
United States · United States Congress · 9 January 1995
Office for Rare Disease Research Act of 1995 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish, in the National Institutes of Health, the Office for Rare Disease Research.
United States · United States Congress · 6 January 1995
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Attorney General should fully enforce the law and take any necessary measures to protect from violent attack persons seeking to provide or obtain reproductive health services.
United States · United States Congress · 5 January 1995
Medicaid Substance Abuse Treatment Act - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to provide federally reimbursed Medicaid coverage of alcoholism and drug dependency residential treatment services for pregnant women whose family income is below 185 percent of the Federal poverty level and for their Medicaid-eligible children and spouses. Lists the required services included in such coverage. Requires that such coverage continue for at least 12 months, except in certain circumstances, such as where the coverage of pregnant women must continue for one year following the end of pregnancy. Limits the size of a residential treatment facility. Allows a State agency to grant exceptions to such limit. Prohibits the facility from being licensed as a hospital. Caps the number of nationwide beds for which Federal assistance may be provided under such residential treatment programs. Increases such annual bed cap for calendar years 1995 through 1999. Addresses treatment needs of pregnant addicted Indian and Alaska Native women in Indian Health Service areas.
United States · United States Congress · 5 January 1995
Reduction of Federal Spending Through Space Station Termination Act of 1995 - Prohibits the expenditure of appropriated funds for the Space Station Program.
United States · United States Congress · 5 January 1995
Directs the Secretary of Defense to defer until the year 2010 the planned initial operating capability of the F-22 aircraft and adjust the schedule for research, development, testing, evaluation and production accordingly. Directs the Department of Defense to plan for a total inventory of no more than 42 of such aircraft in the year 2015. Requires a report from the Secretary to the Congress on the above changes.
United States · United States Congress · 5 January 1995
Comprehensive Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Prevention Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish a comprehensive Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects prevention program, including an education and public awareness program, an applied epidemiologic research and prevention program, support for and the conducting of basic research, a procedure for disseminating diagnostic criteria, and an Inter-Agency Task Force on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects. Provides for related technical assistance, grants, cooperative agreements, contracts, and professional education. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 5 January 1995
Advanced Neutron Source Termination Act of 1995 - Prohibits appropriated funds from being available for the planning, construction, and operation of the Advanced Neutron Source. Requires funds appropriated for such purpose that remain unexpended and unobligated 90 days after the enactment of this Act to be credited to the general revenues of the Treasury.
United States · United States Congress · 4 January 1995
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Conservation and Management Title II: Fishery Monitoring and Research Title III: Fisheries Stock Recovery Financing Sustainable Fisheries Act - Title I: Conservation and Management - Amends the Magnuson Fishery Conservation and Management Act to include among its purposes the advocacy of fishery habitat protection. (Sec. 104) Authorizes appropriations for FY 1993 through 1999 to carry out such Act. (Sec. 107) Revises the guidelines governing permits for foreign fishing vessels. (Sec. 108) Repeals the large-scale driftnet fishing reporting requirements. (Sec. 109) Modifies the national standards for fishery conservation and management to include the mandate that conservation and management measures minimize the incidental catch of non-target living marine resources. (Sec. 110) Expands the number of voting members on the Pacific Fishery Management Council to include one appointed from an Indian tribe with federally recognized fishing rights from a member State. Prescribes selection guidelines for such Indian representative. Authorizes each Regional Fishery Management Council to establish a negotiation panel to assist in the development of specific conservation and management measures for a fishery. (Sec. 111) Modifies the guidelines governing the contents of fishery management plans to include: (1) protection of essential fish habitat; (2) prevention of overfishing; (3) assessment of the level of bycatch; and (4) minimization of mortality caused by discards. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to establish guidelines for individual transferable quotas systems. (Sec. 112) Revises actions by the Secretary after receipt of a fishery management plan. Requires the Secretary to establish the level of fees for fishing vessel permits. (Sec. 113) Requires the Secretary to report annually to the Congress and the Councils on the status of fisheries within each Council's geographical area and identify those fisheries that are approaching a condition of being overfished or are overfished. Requires the appropriate Council to prepare a fishery management plan to prevent or stop overfishing. (Sec. 114) Modifies provisions concerning: (1) State jurisdiction; (2) prohibited acts; (3) civil penalties and permit sanctions; and (4) enforcement. (Sec. 118) Requires the North Pacific Fishery Management Council to include in each fishery management plan conservation and management measures, including fees or other incentives, to reduce bycatch. (Sec. 119) Grants the Secretary discretionary authority to work with interested parties to develop a sustainable development strategy for any fishery classified as overfished or determined to be a commercial fishery failure. Establishes an Ocean Conservation Trust Fund to carry out this section. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1995 through 1999 for fishery resource disasters, if such funds are designated by the Congress as an emergency requirement under the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act). Title II: Fishery Monitoring and Research - Directs the Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating, the States, the Councils, and Marine Fisheries Commissions, to develop recommendations for implementation of a standardized fishing vessel registration and data management system on a national or regional basis. Requires a report to the Congress on the need to include private recreational fishing vessels used exclusively for pleasure into such system. (Sec. 203) Provides for a Council to implement a data collection program specific to the needs of a fishery management plan. (Sec. 204) Directs the Secretary to issue guidelines for the carrying of observers on fishing vessels. (Sec. 205) Directs the Secretary to publish, every three years after enactment of this Act, a strategic plan for fisheries research for the five years immediately following such publication. (Sec. 206) Requires the Secretary to report to specified congressional committees on programs that assess the impact on fishery resources of incidental harvest by shrimp trawl fisheries. Title III: Fisheries Stock Recovery Financing - Fisheries Stock Recovery Financing Act - Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1936 to authorize guarantees for refinancing fishery stock recovery efforts. (Sec. 303) Requires the financing of fishing vessels and fishery facilities through the Federal Financing Bank, unless placement through such bank is not reasonably available or placement elsewhere is available at lower financing. (Sec. 304) Modifies provisions for fees for guaranteeing obligations with respect to fishing vessels and fishing facilities.
United States · United States Congress · 4 January 1995
Lost Creek Land Exchange Act of 1995 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to acquire certain lands owned by the Brand S Corporation and located in the Lost Creek area of the Deerlodge National Forest and within the Gallatin National Forest (to be added to and administered as part of such National Forests) in exchange for certain lands within such National Forests and specified timber rights on Deerlodge National Forest lands. Exempts the Wineglass Tract from such exchange unless measures are in place to protect the scenic, wildlife, and open space values of the Tract. Directs the Secretary to improve legal public road access to Gallatin National Forest System lands between West Pine Creek and Big Creek. Prohibits the Secretary from acquiring lands under this Act if it is determined that such lands have become contaminated with hazardous substances. Releases the United States from any responsibility or liability with respect to hazardous wastes or other substances placed on any of the lands covered by this Act after their transfer to the ownership of another party. Provides that nothing in this Act shall be construed as either diminishing or increasing any U.S. responsibility or liability based on the condition of such lands on the date of such transfer.