United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide an income tax credit for the amounts paid or incurred by the taxpayer to convert land held in the United States and formerly used for agriculture or raising livestock into an area used exclusively for providing vegetative cover for wind erosion control or wildlife habitat. Provides that such wind erosion control and wildlife habitat areas must: (1) meet such requirements as are established by the Secretary of Agriculture; (2) be no less than 20 feet, nor more than 60 feet in width; and (3) comprise no more than 15 percent of the area of any farm. Provides for the recapture of such credits to the extent that credit is taken for land which ceases to be a wind erosion control or wildlife habitat area, or is transferred by the taxpayer (except by reason of death, or in certain tax-free corporate acquisitions) within three years after the credit is taken. Provides for the carryover of allowable credit to the extent it exceeds the taxpayer's liability. Reduces the taxpayer's basis, and disallows any deduction of expenditures properly charged to capital account for which this credit is taken.
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1977
Federal Energy Administration Authorization Act - Amends the Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974 to authorize appropriations for fiscal years 1977 and fiscal year 1978 for specified organizational entities within the Administration. Imposes restrictions and limitations on the use of funds authorized by this Act. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to increase the appropriations authorizations for fiscal years 1977 and 1978 for energy conservation and efficiency improvement programs under such Act. Authorizes additional appropriations to assist in petroleum reserves shortage programs. Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to authorize appropriations for fiscal years 1977 and 1978 for energy conservation and renewable-resource obligation guarantees. Extends the Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974 until September 30, 1978. Amends the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974 to extend the coal conversion and allocation authority of the Federal Energy Administrator until December 31, 1978. Amends the Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974 to establish procedures governing the use of commercial standards by the Federal Energy Administrator in proposed rules, regulations, or other activities. Directs the Administrator to establish regulations to eliminate, avoid, or mitigate conflicts-of-interest in Agency contracting procedures.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1977
Earthquake Hazard Reduction Act - Directs the President to establish (1) a coordinated National Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program, (2) an Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction, (3) a National Advisory Committee on Earthquake Hazard Reduction and (4) an Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Board. Specifies the duties of the Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction, including developing and maintaining an Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program plan and staffing and assisting the National Advisory Committee. Directs the National Advisory Committee to review and advise the Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction regarding the progress, implementation, and coordination of the Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program. Details the elements of the Program, including physical studies; structural studies; social, legal and economic research; and practical application of knowledge concerning earthquakes. Directs the Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Board to evaluate individual earthquake prediction, compile and maintain a public record of the performance of prediction methods, and issue authenticated earthquake predictions if and when earthquake prediction becomes a sufficiently reliable science. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1977
Repeals the provision of the Internal Revenue Code dealing with deductions for individual retirement accounts and replaces it with a provision allowing a deduction for amounts paid in cash.
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1977
Amends the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954 to revise the formula for allocation of food aid commodities to prohibit more than 25 percent of such aid from being allocated to countries which do not meet the poverty criteria of the International Development Association, with certain exceptions.
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1977
Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to regulate sales of new natural gas in interstate commerce. Stipulates that prices for offshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from onshore Federal lands. Stipulates that emergency sales of natural gas to curtailed customers who qualify as essential users shall not affect such exempt status. Authorizes the Commission to terminate such exemptions on or after April 15, 1978, if they are no longer deemed necessary to protect high priority consumers of natural gas. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make reports regarding the nature and availability of natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the estimated natural gas reserves for individual fields. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands through December 31, 1982. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to regulate sales of new natural gas in interstate commerce. Stipulates that prices for offshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from onshore Federal lands. Stipulates that emergency sales of natural gas to curtailed customers who qualify as essential users shall not affect such exempt status. Authorizes the Commission to terminate such exemptions on or after April 15, 1978, if they are no longer deemed necessary to protect high priority consumers of natural gas. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make reports regarding the nature and availability of natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the estimated natural gas reserves for individual fields. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands through December 31, 1982. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Automotive Transport Research and Development Act - Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to establish a program to develop advanced automobile propulsion systems within five years of the date of enactment of this Act. Directs the Administrator to make grants for research projects designed to assist the furtherance of such program. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to evaluate and report the extent to which the automobile industry utilizes advanced automotive technology. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to test vehicles developed pursuant to the program established by this Act, in order to determine compliance with applicable standards under the Clean Air Act and the Noise Control Act of 1972. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to test such vehicles in order to determine compliance with applicable standards under the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966, the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act, and the Automobile Information Disclosure Act. Establishes contracting procedures consistent with applicable provisions of the Federal Nonnuclear Energy Research and Development Act of 1974 and the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to submit annual reports to Congress of activities pursuant to this Act, including results of economic surveys designed to evaluate the extent to which Federal guarantees of financial obligations may aid in developing commercial markets for advanced automobile technology. Amends the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 to require that efforts of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration be directed towards the development of advanced automobile propulsion systems. Authorizes the appropriation of $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 and $75,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 to carry out the purposes of this Act. Stipulates that no more than 60 percent of such appropriations shall be directly expended in Federal laboratories.
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1977
Petroleum Marketing Practices Act - Title I: Franchise Protection - Prohibits a franchisor from terminating or failing to renew a franchise unless specified conditions exist. Enumerates the basis upon which a franchisor may terminate or fail to renew a franchise. Exempts trial franchises from the requirements of this Act. Requires that 90 days advance notice of termination or nonrenewal be made in writing and delivered to the franchisee. Directs the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration to publish in the Federal Register a summary of this Act. Authorizes civil actions in a United States district court against any franchisor who violates any requirement of this Act. Provides for the preemption of State laws unless such law is the same as the applicable provisions of this Act. Title II: Octane Disclosure - Requires the Federal Trade Commission to: (1) establish testing procedures for the determination of the octane rating of automotive gasoline; (2) establish requirements applicable to refiners with respect to the testing of automotive gasoline; (3) establish a certification procedure applicable to the distribution of automotive gasoline; and (4) establish requirements applicable to retailers of gasoline with respect to display of the octane rating of automotive gasoline at the point of sale. Prohibits any person who distributes automotive gasoline from making representations respecting the octane rating of gasoline unless the gasoline has been tested in accordance with the procedures established by the Federal Trade Commission. Grants to the Commission the procedural, investigative, and enforcement powers necessary to make effective the rules required to be prescribed. Makes it an unfair or deceptive act or practice in or affecting commerce under the Federal Trade Commission Act to violate the rules prescribed by this Act. Authorizes judicial review of the rules prescribed under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1977
Camp Safety Incentive Act - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to develop and promulgate model youth camp safety standards within six months after the enactment of this Act. Defines "youth camp" as any camp advertised as a youth camp; conducted for ten or more children under the age of 18; and operated for five or more consecutive days. Authorizes Federal financial assistance to States for the development of State youth camp safety plans which include either penalties or loss of certification as a means of enforcement. Requires States receiving financial assistance under this Act to file annual accident reports with the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to make annual reports to the President and to the Congress. Terminates the assistance program established by this Act on September 30, 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1977
Agricultural Research Act - States the findings of Congress that the Department of Agriculture should continue to serve as the lead agency in the executive branch for agricultural research. States the purpose of this Act to be the encouragement and facilitation of the development and maintenance of a unified Federal agricultural research policy upon which the overall Federal research effort can be used. Title I: Agricultural Research Policy, Research, and Education - Establishes in the Department of Agriculture a permanent Agricultural Research and Education Policy Advisory Committee, composed of 21 members, to advise the Secretary with respect to national agricultural research and policies, including priorities for basic and applied agricultural research, the administration of agricultural research and policies for education and training in agricultural research. Authorizes the Committee to establish subcommittees to review disciplinary and commodity research priorities, funding and administrative questions, and individual questions of research education and training. Authorizes the Secretary to establish an Agricultural Research Policy Analysis Institute to conduct research on matters of policy regarding all aspects of agricultural research and related matters. States that the Agricultural Research and Education Policy Advisory Committee shall serve as the Board of Directors of the Institute, which may have up to 20 full-time professional members. Designates the Department of Agriculture as the lead agency of the Federal Government to coordinate all agricultural research activities in other Federal departments and agencies, the land grant colleges, the State agricultural experiment stations, and research in the private sector. Establishes within the Federal Coordinating Council for Science, Engineering and Technology a Subcommittee on Food and Renewable Resources to review Federal research and development programs relevant to world food and fiber production and distribution, to promote planning and coordination of such research in the Federal Government and to recommend policies and measures concerning food and agricultural science for the consideration of the Council. Directs the Secretary to establish a program of competitive grants for agricultural research to be made to individual scientists and to institutions for research in four categories aimed at: (1) the discovery of new scientific principles and techniques applicable in agriculture and forestry; (2) the development of innovative products and technology in such fields as biological nitrogen fixation and photosynthesis; (3) the field of human nutrition; (4) the development of new crops, including guayule and jojoba. Requires the Secretary to give priority to research in those fields of basic and applied science promising advances and breakthroughs. Allows up to five percent of funds awarded in any fiscal year to be granted to support research conducted outside the United States. Permits the Secretary to require matching State funds for any research grants made. Repeals the existing requirement that at least 20 percent of grant funds distributed to the States be used by State agricultural experiment stations for marketing research. Transfers the administration of additional appropriations for agricultural colleges from the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare to the Department of Agriculture. Directs the Secretary to conduct a program of competitive grants and fellowships for merit to strengthen undergraduate, graduate and post-doctoral research in the agricultural sciences. Authorizes for each grant program established under this title specified sums to be appropriated for each fiscal year from 1978 through 1980 or 1982. Authorizes the Secretary to appoint a Committee on Agricultural Research Facilities to assist him in the compilation of a report to the President and the Congress on the status and future needs of agricultural research materials and facilities, including buildings and farms, plant, seed, genetic stock, insect, virus and animal collections, computers and laboratory instrumentation. States that the report shall include recommendations for a program aimed at providing the Nation with the most modern and efficient system of research facilities needed to advance agricultural research in all fields. Authorizes the Secretary to establish the National Agricultural Research Award, consisting of a grant not to exceed $50,000 per year for a period of not more than three years to support research or study by: (1) a scientists in recognition of outstanding contributions to the advance of agricultural science; and (2) a graduate student or post-doctoral research worker in recognition of demonstrated capability and promise. Requires the Secretary to submit to the President and the Congress an annual report containing an annually updated five-year national agricultural research plan, a review of progress made toward the accomplishment of planned goals, and a review of specified categories of agricultural research activities of the Department and their relationship to the related activities of other Federal, State and private agencies. Authorizes specified sums to be appropriated for existing agricultural research programs for fiscal years 1978 through 1982. Title II: Animal Health Care and Research - Directs the Secretary to establish an Animal Health Science Research Advisory Board to recommend priorities for the conduct of animal health research programs. Directs that funds appropriated for such programs be apportioned as follows: (1) four percent retained by the Department for administration and program assistance; and (2) 96 percent to go to accredited colleges of veterinary medicine and agricultural experiment stations in the several States. Requires the dean or director of each eligible institution to cause preparation of and to review project proposals which comply with the purpose and provisions of this Act. Sets the Federal contribution to any eligible institution at $100,000 in addition to amounts matching funds from non-Federal sources. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct a program of grants to assist States which do not have an accredited college of veterinary medicine in the construction of such, the employment of faculty, the acquisition of equipment and other necessaries. Specifies the formula by which funds appropriated shall be distributed to the States for these purposes. Authorizes for grant programs specified sums to be appropriated for fiscal years 1978 through 1982.
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1977
Amends the Occupational Safety and Health Act to exclude from coverage (1) employers with ten or fewer employees; and (2) employees not employed on a regular basis for 30 or more consecutive days. Requires that a warning rather than a citation be given for a first instance violation, other than a willful or serious violation, to an employer who has not employed more than 25 employees at any time during the 30 days prior to an inspection or investigation. Prohibits the imposition of a civil penalty against an employer for a nonserious violation if (1) such employer has not previously received a citation for the same violation; and (2) the inspection upon which such citation was based resulted in the issuance of citations for ten or or fewer violations of a nonserious nature.
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1977
Title I: Meat and Meat Products - Requires, under the Federal Meat Inspection Act, the package or container of any imported meat or meat products capable of use as human food to be labeled in such a way as to inform consumers that such product was imported. Requires that such products meet the same health standards as domestically produced meats. Requires testing of imported meat in the countries from which such meat is being imported. Directs that periodic tests be conducted in the United States by the Department of Agriculture also. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to prescribe such assessments and fees as he determines necessary to cover the Departments costs under this Title. Title II: Dairy Products - Prohibits the importation of dairy products into the United States unless the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare certifies the products as wholesome and pure. Requires the Secretary to establish standards for imported products comparable to standards imposed upon domestic dairy products. Directs the Secretary, where and to the extent necessary, to inspect imported dairy products and require such products to be accompanied by a certificate of compliance issued by the Secretary. Requires imported dairy products to comply with United States labeling and packaging requirements. Requires that imported dairy products be labeled in such a way as to inform consumers that such product was imported.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1977
Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to allow cancer-inducing additives to be used in food for human consumption if the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare has determined the benefits of such food additive's availability outweigh its dangers. Permits the Secretary to promulgate specific restrictions on the use of such food additives.
United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1977
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the ban or prohibition of saccharin should be delayed until the appropriate Congressional committees have determined that consumption of saccharin in unsafe.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1977
Directs the United States to pay reasonable litigation costs, including attorney fees, to prevailing defendants in civil actions in which the United States is a plaintiff.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1977
Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make loans through the Agricultural Credit Insurance Fund to agricultural producers in the United States who sustain losses incurred on or after January 1, 1973, as a direct result of their food crops, animal feedcrops, livestock (including poultry), or livestock products being quarantined or condemned by a Federal or State official because such crops, livestock or products contain quantities of toxic chemicals dangerous to the public health. Sets a maximum loan amount of $100,000, a term of seven years, and leaves the interest rate to the Secretary's discretion. Requires repayment of the loan up to the amount of the compensation within three months of the receipt of any compensation for losses for which the loan was made. Permits the Secretary to postpone all but a nominal amount of principal and interest payments for up to three years.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1977
Permits the Secretary of Agriculture to implement an emergency feed program for assistance in the preservation and maintenance of livestock in any area of the United States including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, where, because of natural catastrophe, the Secretary determines that an emergency exists. Requires that for any person to receive such assistance he: (1) must have suffered a substantial loss in the livestock feed normally produced on his farm for his livestock; (2) must not have sufficient feed for his livestock for the projected period of the emergency; and (3) must make feed purchases in quantities larger than the quantities of feed purchases that he would normally make. Limits reimbursement of eligible persons to 50 percent of the cost of the feed purchased. Directs the Commodity Credit Corporation to administer the program. Establishes civil and criminal penalties for unauthorized disposal of any feed for which a person has been reimbursed under this program. Repeals specified current provisions of The Agricultural Act of 1949 dealing with: (1) distress relief assistance in the preservation and maintenance of foundation herds; (2) limitations on the costs borne by the Commodity Credit Corporation in the administration of distress relief assistance; and (3) civil and criminal penalties for unauthorized disposal of any feed grains furnished under such relief program.
United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1977
Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to eliminate the requirement that persons filing an application with the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare include as part of application for approval of a new drug full reports of investigations which show whether or not such a drug is effective. Eliminates the power of the Secretary to disapprove a new drug on the basis that such drug will not have the effect it purports or is represented to have under the conditions of use prescribed, recommended, or suggested in the proposed labeling of the drug. Prevents the Secretary from withholding exemption for an experimental drug for investigative purposes on the basis that such drug will not be effective in a research context. Eliminates the authority of the Secretary to withhold approval of an application with respect to any new animal drugs on the basis that full reports of investigations on such drug have not proven it effective. Prevents the Secretary from withdrawing approval of a new animal drug on the basis that it poses an imminent hazard to health of man or animals because of a lack of substantial evidence that the drug will have the effect it purports or is represented to have under the conditions of use prescribed, recommended, or suggested in the labeling of it.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to repeal the carryover basis provisions enacted by the Tax Reform Act which provide that beneficiaries receiving property from a decedent's estate will retain the decedent's basis in the property. Restores prior law which "stepped up" or "stepped down" the property's basis to its market value at the time of death without imposing tax consequences on the appreciation or depreciation the property underwent while held by the decedent.
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1977
Provides that the fees payable to agents or attorneys who represent veterans in allowed claims under the veterans laws shall be paid by the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs rather than deducted from amounts awarded under the claims.
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1977
Amends Title II (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to provide that attorneys' fees allowed in administrative or judicial proceedings under that Title (Or under title XVIII (Medicare) of such Act), in cases where the claimants are successful, shall be paid by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare rather than deducted from the amounts awarded claimants.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1977
Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to regulate sales of new natural gas in interstate commerce. Stipulates that prices for offshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from onshore Federal lands. Stipulates that emergency sales of natural gas to curtailed customers who qualify as essential users shall not affect such exempt status. Authorizes the Commission to terminate such exemptions on or after April 15, 1978, if they are no longer deemed necessary to protect high priority consumers of natural gas. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make reports regarding the nature and availability of natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the estimated natural gas reserves for individual fields. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands through December 31, 1982. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards.
United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1977
Amends Title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to expand the coverage of the supplementary medical insurance program to include physician extender services.
United States · United States Congress · 16 February 1977
Earthquake Hazard Reduction Act - Directs the President to establish: (1) a coordinated National Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program; (2) an Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction; (3) a National Advisory Committee on Earthquake Hazard Reduction; and (4) an Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Board. Specifies the duties of the Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction, including developing and maintaining an Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program plan and staffing and assisting the National Advisory Committee. Directs the National Advisory Committee to review and advise the Office of Earthquake Hazard Reduction regarding the progress, implementation, and coordination of the Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program. Enumerates the Federal agencies to be assigned responsibilities in the Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program. Details the elements of the Program, including physical studies; structural studies; social, legal and economic research; and practical application of knowledge concerning earthquakes. Directs the Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Board to evaluate individual earthquake predictions, compile and maintain a public record of the performance of prediction methods, and issue authenticated earthquake predictions if and when earthquake prediction becomes a sufficiently reliable science.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1977
Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to regulate sales of new natural gas in interstate commerce. Stipulates that prices for offshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from onshore Federal lands. Stipulates that emergency sales of natural gas to curtailed customers who qualify as essential users shall not affect such exempt status. Authorizes the Commission to terminate such exemptions on or after April 15, 1978, if they are no longer deemed necessary to protect high priority consumers of natural gas. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make reports regarding the nature and availability of natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the estimated natural gas reserves for individual fields. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands through December 31, 1982. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1977
Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to regulate sales of new natural gas in interstate commerce. Stipulates that prices for offshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from onshore Federal lands. Stipulates that emergency sales of natural gas to curtailed customers who qualify as essential users shall not affect such exempt status. Authorizes the Commission to terminate such exemptions on or after April 15, 1978, if they are no longer deemed necessary to protect high priority consumers of natural gas. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make reports regarding the nature and availability of natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the estimated natural gas reserves for individual fields. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands through December 31, 1982. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1977
Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to regulate sales of new natural gas in interstate commerce. Stipulates that prices for offshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from onshore Federal lands. Stipulates that emergency sales of natural gas to curtailed customers who qualify as essential users shall not affect such exempt status. Authorizes the Commission to terminate such exemptions on or after April 15, 1978, if they are no longer deemed necessary to protect high priority consumers of natural gas. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make reports regarding the nature and availability of natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the estimated natural gas reserves for individual fields. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands through December 31, 1982. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards.
United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1977
Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to regulate sales of new natural gas in interstate commerce. Stipulates that prices for offshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from onshore Federal lands. Stipulates that emergency sales of natural gas to curtailed customers who qualify as essential users shall not affect such exempt status. Authorizes the Commission to terminate such exemptions on or after April 15, 1978, if they are no longer deemed necessary to protect high priority consumers of natural gas. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make reports regarding the nature and availability of natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the estimated natural gas reserves for individual fields. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands through December 31, 1982. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards.
United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1977
Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to regulate sales of new natural gas in interstate commerce. Stipulates that prices for offshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from onshore Federal lands. Stipulates that emergency sales of natural gas to curtailed customers who qualify as essential users shall not affect such exempt status. Authorizes the Commission to terminate such exemptions on or after April 15, 1978, if they are no longer deemed necessary to protect high priority consumers of natural gas. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make reports regarding the nature and availability of natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the estimated natural gas reserves for individual fields. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands through December 31, 1982. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards.
United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1977
Requires that whoever uses or carries a firearm during the commission of a Federal felony, or whoever is convicted by a State court of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year and used or carried a firearm transported in, or affecting, interstate or foreign commerce during the commission of such crime shall, in addition to the punishment provided for the commission of such crime, be sentenced to a term of imprisonment of not less than five nor more than ten years. Requires in the case of a second or subsequent conviction the imposition of a term of imprisonment of not less than ten years, or to life imprisonment. Stipulates that the execution or imposition of any term of imprisonment under this Act (1) may not be suspended, (2) may not run concurrently; and (3) may not include probation.
United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1977
Establishes the House of Representatives a Select Committee on Narcotics Abuse and Control to review problems of narcotics abuse including enforcement, international trafficking, organized crime, and the approach of the criminal law system to narcotics law violations. Requires the Committee to report its findings annually to the House of Representatives.
United States · United States Congress · 10 January 1977
Requires that whoever uses or carries a firearm during the commission of a Federal felony, or whoever is convicted by a State court of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year and used or carried a firearm transported in, or affecting, interstate or foreign commerce during the commission of such crime shall, in addition to the punishment provided for the commission of such crime, be sentenced to a term of imprisonment of not less than five nor more than ten years. Requires in the case of a second or subsequent conviction the imposition of a term of imprisonment of not less than ten years, or to life imprisonment. Stipulates that the execution or imposition of any term of imprisonment under this Act (1) may not be suspended, (2) may not run concurrently; and (3) may not include probation.
United States · United States Congress · 4 January 1977
National Energy Extension Service Act - Establishes an Energy Extension Service in the Energy Research and Development Administration to develop and implement a comprehensive program for the identification and application of energy conserving practices and techniques. Stipulates that programs shall provide for technical assistance and practical demonstration in the agricultural, commercial, residential, and small business sectors. Requires that the national program permit States to establish technical support institutes at colleges or universities as designated by the Governor of each State. Stipulates that such program shall be implemented in a manner designed to minimize conflict with existing services in the private sector of the economy. Establishes procedures and criteria for the development of State plans for implementing the provisions of this Act. Allows for Federal development of plans for States in which an acceptable plan has not been submitted. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to develop a comprehensive program and plan for coordination of Federal energy education and information dissemination programs. Stipulates that such plan shall detail procedures for assessing the energy efficiency of various Federal programs. Establishes a National Energy Extension Service Advisory Board to conduct a continuing review of the programs developed under this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 to carry out the purposes of this Act. Prescribes a formula for allocation of such funds to the States.
United States · United States Congress · 4 January 1977
Creates a Select House Committee on Population to conduct an investigation and study of: (1) the major adverse effects of current population growth throughout the world; (2) approaches which have been shown to be effective in coping with excessive population growth; and (3) means to encourage countries with excessive population growth rates to adopt methods proven to be successful in reducing population growth rates.
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 1976
Exempts specified proposed annexation parcels made to San Antonio, Texas, from requirements regarding voting qualifications and procedures under the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
United States · United States Congress · 26 August 1976
Authorizes the President to issue a proclamation designating the week beginning October 3, 1976, and ending October 9, 1976, as "National Volunteer Firemen Week."
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1976
Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to directly regulate sales prices of new natural gas except for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices for onshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices paid for natural gas in transactions between a natural gas company and its affiliates shall not exceed prices paid in comparable sales by persons not affiliated with any natural gas company. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make reports regarding the nature and availability of natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the estimated natural gas reserves for individual fields. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Stipulates that the provisions of the Natural Gas Act shall extend to synthetic natural gas. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards. Establishes procedures for the establishment and periodic revision of national ceiling prices for the sale of old natural gas in interstate commerce.
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1976
Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to directly regulate sales prices of new natural gas except for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices for onshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices paid for natural gas in transactions between a natural gas company and its affiliates shall not exceed prices paid in comparable sales by persons not affiliated with any natural gas company. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make reports regarding the nature and availability of natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the estimated natural gas reserves for individual fields. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Stipulates that the provisions of the Natural Gas Act shall extend to synthetic natural gas. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards. Establishes procedures for the establishment and periodic revision of national ceiling prices for the sale of old natural gas in interstate commerce.
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1976
Amends Rule XXII of the Rules of the House of Representatives to remove the limitation on the number of Members who may introduce jointly any bill, memorial, or resolution. Provides that the name of any Member may be added or deleted as a sponsor of a bill, memorial, or resolution which has been introduced if a request on behalf of such Member is made by a Member to the Speaker prior to the enactment or adoption of such bill, memorial, or resolution by the House.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1976
Amends the Tariff Schedules of the United States to require proof of automobile property and personal liability insurance on automobiles imported for the personal use of nonresidents and foreign government personnel, in an amount equal to the minimum insurance requirements in those States in which the vehicle will be operated. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to forward identifying information on such vehicles to the Secretary of Transportation who shall forward such information to the appropriate State agency responsible for motor vehicle registration. Excludes from such requirements automobiles which will be in the United States for not more than 30 days. Requires importers of automobiles so excluded to forward the required information to the nearest customs officer in the event the vehicle remains in the country for 40 days. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to impose a fine of $5,000 upon violators of this Act who had no notice of such requirements. Sets forth penalties of $5,000 or imprisonment for not more than one year, or both, for knowingly failing to furnish information required under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 1976
Paperwork Review and Limitation Act - Amends the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1970 to require that each public bill or resolution reported by a Congressional committee be accompanied by a Paperwork Impact Statement which assesses the amount and character of the information that such bill or resolution will require of private individuals and businesses and the cost of time required of such individuals or businesses who must provide the information sought by such legislation.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 1976
Provides that the Committee on House Administration of the House of Representatives shall provide for the management and operation of the House restaurant and the cafeteria and other food service facilities of the House through the award of contracts. States that any such contract awarded by the committee shall be in effect beginning on the date of such award and ending on December 31, of the third calendar year following the calendar year in which the contract was awarded.
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 1976
Amends rule XXII of the Rules of the House of Representatives to remove the limitation on the number of Members who may introduce jointly any bill, memorial, or resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 1976
Eliminates the requirement, under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, that new drugs be regulated according to their effectiveness. States that such drugs be regulated solely to assure their safety.
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States Postal Service shall not close or suspend the operation of any post offices, unless there is a clear and compelling need to do so. Encourages the service to continue cost-cutting programs which do not affect levels of service.
![Official portrait of Sen. Krueger, Robert C. [D-TX]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/k000333_200.jpg)