United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1973
Provides, under the Merchant Marine Act, that the appropriate agencies take steps to assure that at least 20 percent of the gross tonnage of all petroleum and petroleum products imported into the United States on ocean vessels be transported on privately owned United States flag commercial vessels. Requires that the quantity to be carried in United States flag commercial vessels be at least 25 percent after June 30, 1975, and at least 30 percent after June 30, 1977. (Amends 46 U.S.C. 1241)
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1973
Interstate Compacts - Title I: Consent to Enter into Compact and Conferral of Powers Upon Compact Commission States that Congress consents to any two or more States entering into the Multistate Tax Compact. Expands the powers of the Multistate Tax Commission, subject to specified conditions. Title II: Jurisdiction to Tax - Provides that no State or political subdivision shall require a person to collect and remit a sales or use tax with respect to an interstate sale of tangible personal property unless the person: (1) has a business location in the State; or (2) regularly makes deliveries in the State other than by common carrier or United States mail; or (3) regularly engages in the State in solicitation of orders by direct mail or avertising by means of newspapers, radio, or television. Title III: Maximum Income Attributable to Taxing Jurisdiction - Provides that a State or a political subdivision may not impose for any taxable year on a corporation taxable in more than one State, other than an excluded corporation, a net income tax measured by an amount of net income in excess of an amount calculated by a specified formula. Describes the factors to be calculated in such formula, including property, payroll and sales factors. Title IV: Sales and Use Taxes - Provides that a State or political subdivision may impose a sales tax or require a seller to collect a sales or use tax with respect to an interstate sale or tangible personal property only if the destination of the sale is: (1) in that State, or (2) in a contiguous State or political subdivision of a contiguous State for which the tax is required to be collected under a reciprocal collection agreement. Sets forth provisions dealing with credit for prior taxes, limitations on such credit, refunds and taxation of vehicles and motor fuels. Exempts household goods, including motor vehicles, in the case of persons who establish residence in a State. Provides for the treatment of transportation charges with respect to interstate sales. Defines the terms used in this Act, including: "sales tax", "use tax", "excluded corporation", "affiliated corporation", and "interstate sale". Provides that a person shall be considered to have a business location within a State only if that person (1) owns or leases property within the State, or (2) has one or more employees located in the State, or (3) regularly maintains specified stock in the State, or (4) regularly leases tangible personal property for use in the State. Details definitions for : (1) when property shall be considered to be located in a State; (2) when the operation of property shall be considered to be localized in a State, and (3) when an employee shall be considered to be located in a State. Provides that no State or political subdivision may, after the date of enactment of this Act, assess a tax against any person for periods ending on or before such date in or for which that person became liable for tax if the State or subdivision would not have had the power to assess such tax had this Act been in effect.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1973
Provides for the contemporaneous comsideration by the Civil Aeronautics Board of applications for rights by air carriers to engage in air transportation. (Amends 49 U.S.C. 1371)
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 1973
Subpena and Injunctive Relief Amendments Acts - Declares it to be the purpose of this Act to grant the Federal Trade Commission the requisite authority to insure prompt enforcement of the laws the Commission administers by granting statutory authority to directly enforce subpenas issued by the Commission and to seek preliminary injunctive relief to avoid unfair competitive practices. Provides that any person, partnership, or corporation who violates an order of the Commission after it has become final, and while such order is in effect, shall forfeit and pay to the United States a civil penalty of not more than $10,000 for each violation.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 1973
Provides for the regulation of transportation of hazardous materials (formerly explosives and other dangerous articles). States that the term "Secretary" means the Secretary of Transportation. Provides that no person may transport any dangerous explosives or any radioactive materials, etiologic agents, or other hazardous materials on or in any passenger engaged in interstate or foreign commerce by land. States that no person may transport liquid nitroglycerin, fulminate of mercury in bulk in dry condition, radioactive materials, etiologic agents, or other hazardous materials, in any car operated in the transportation of passengers by land, except under such rules and regulations as the Secretary shall specifically prescribe. Provides civil penalties of up to a $2,000 fine for each violation of this Act. Imposes criminal penalties for such violations. Provides for the marking of packages containing explosives and other hazardous materials. Requires that no person may deliver or carry any explosive or other hazardous material under any false or deceptive marking, description, invoice, shipping order, or other declaration. Directs the Secretary to prescribe regulations for the safe transportation within the United States of explosives and other hazardous materials, including radioactive materials, etiologic agents, flammable liquids, flammable solids, oxidizing materials, corrosive materials, compressed gases, and poisonous substances. States that such regulations shall apply to all carriers who engage in interstate or foreign commerce whenever they engage in the transportation of explosives or other hazardous materials by land; all shippers making shipments of explosives or other hazardous materials via any carrier who engages in interstate or foreign commerce by land or water; and all manufacturers of containers or packagings which may be used for transportation of explosives or other hazardous materials in interstate or foreign commerce by land or water. Empowers the Secretary to exercise all the powers conferred upon him by the Department of Transportation Act and upon the Interstate Commerce Commission by the Interstate Commerce Act, with specified exceptions.
United States · United States Congress · 25 June 1973
Makes it a Federal criminal offense to kill any officer or employee of the Interstate Commerce Commission assigned to perform investigative, inspection, or law enforcement functions while engaged in the performance of his official duties. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 1114)
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1973
Exempts from duty specified equipment and repairs for vessels operated by or for any agency of the United States where the entries were made in connection with vessels arriving before January 5, 1971.
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1973
Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as necessary to carry out the Federal Railroad Safety Act of 1970, and the program for safety in the transportation of hazardous materials. Repeals specified statutes relating to safety appliances and equipment on railroad engines and cars, and protection of employees and travelers. Increases civil penalties for railroad safety violations to not less than $250 or more than $2,500, with each day constituting a separate offense. Makes it unlawful for any railroad carrier to use on its line any locomotive unless said locomotive, its tender, and all parts thereof are in proper condition, have been inspected from time to time, and are safe to operate in service. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to prescribe appropriate rules and standards governing the safe operation of all locomotives, their tenders and all parts thereof. Sets forth provisions concerning the inspection of locomotives, and appeals to the Secretary from adverse determinations. Prescribes a $250 to $2,500 civil penalty for a common carrier which violates the provisions of this Act relating to locomotives. (Amends 45 U.S.C. 441, 22-34; 49 U.S.C. 1762)
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1973
Authorizes the President, under the Foreign Assistance Act, to provide assistance for the purpose of aiding South Vietnamese children through (1) governmental agencies of South Vietnam; (2) day care centers, orphanages, and health and welfare programs; and (3) adoption by United States citizens of South Vietnamese children. Allocates specified amounts of funds appropriated under the Foreign Assistance Act for the purpose carrying out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1973
Offshore Shrimp Fisheries Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to issue permits to vessels to engage in shrimp fishing under requirements of the existing treaty between Brazil and the United States, this Act and other regulations. Limits the number of vessels at present which are subject to permits to 325 or a different number as specified in the treaty from time to time. Outlines the requirements of the permits and allows such permits to be suspended or revoked by the Secretary for failure to comply with any terms or conditions. Gives the permittee, upon suspension, the right to a prompt hearing by the Secretary. Declares the decision of the Secretary to be final and binding. Allows permits to be returned to the Secretary and reissued. Sets annual fees for a permit for 1973 at $1,230 plus not more than $200 for administrative costs. Provides that the method and time for application of permits be announced in advance by the Federal Register. Outlines the procedure for granting permits. Authorizes the Secretary to issue a letter of voluntary compliance to a vessel owner whose vessels have engaged in fishing in the area after May 9, 1972, who have met treaty requirements, and who have prior to August 1, 1972 deposited $700 to the Offshore Shrimp Fisheries Fund. Establishes the Offshore Shrimp Fisheries Fund to be used by the Secretary to make payments for enforcement expenses under article VI of the treaty. Requires each person in charge of a vessel with a permit to keep a logbook in such form and manner as prescribed under the treaty. Requires owners of such vessels to give additional information on shrimp fishery to Secretary. Requires such information to be treated as confidential commercial information. Gives the Secretary power to subpena all such logbooks, records or other information. Prohibits fishing or transship of shrimp in area of agreement unless the vessel is operating under permit issued under this Act. Prohibits any attempt to prevent duly authorized officers from searching or seizing any vessel pursuant to his duties under the treaty. Provides penalties for violations of this Act. Requires that the minimum penalty assessed be sufficient to cover enforcement expense incurred by the United States pursuant to article VI. Requires such minimum civil penalty to be deposited directly into the Offshore Shrimp Fisheries Fund. Provides that this Act be enforced jointly by the Secretary of Commerce, Secretary of the department over the Coast Guard, and the Secretary of the Treasury. Empowers any duly authorized law enforcement officer of Brazil (acting under article V of the treaty) to act on behalf of the United States to enforce provisions of the treaty relating to search and seizure of any vessel. Authorizes the Secretary to issue all regulations necessary to carry out objectives of the treaty and this Act. Requires that prior to issue of any regulations dealing with marketing vessels or use of radio-telephone frequencies, the Secretary shall consult with Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating. Authorizes appropriations necessary for expenses pursuant to article VI of the treaty to be deposited in the Offshore Shrimp Fisheries Fund. Authorizes appropriation necessary for domestic enforcement expenses and the expenses of administering the provisions of the treaty, the Act and the regulations.
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1973
Provides, under the Merchant Marine Act, that nuclear-powered vessels receiving a construction differential subsidy which was contracted for before July 1, 1978, may be provided with incentive support payments from the Secretary of Commerce.
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1973
Removes the criminal penalties, under the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, for failure to report to the Secretary of Transportation the intent to build a structure greater than 200 feet above ground level. Prescribes civil penalties in lieu of such criminal penalties.
United States · United States Congress · 19 June 1973
Flexible Hours Employment Act - Declares that it is the policy of the United States Government that, unless adjudged impossible by the Secretary of Labor, at least 2 percent of the positions at each and all levels in all executive agencies shall be available on a flexible hours employment basis for persons who cannot work or do not desire to work full time within one year after the date of enactment of this Act, 4 percent within two years, 6 percent within three years, 8 percent within four years, and 10 percent within five years. Requires the Secretary to report annually to the Congress on the procedures, activities, projects, and other efforts undertaken to carry out this policy. Provides that no person who is otherwise qualified for fulltime Federal employment shall be required to accept flexible hour employment as a condition of new or continued employment. Provides that all persons employed in flexible hours employment positions pursuant to the policy established by this Act shall receive, on a pro rata basis, all benefits normally available to full-time employees of all executive agencies in similar position or grade.
United States · United States Congress · 19 June 1973
Indian Economic Development and Employment Act - Directs the Secretary of Labor to enter into arrangements with eligible applicants to provide employment in jobs providing needed public services and training which would otherwise be unavailable. Requires that an application for assistance for a public service employment program under this Act shall include specified provisions, including: (1) assurances that the activities will be administered by or under the supervision of the applicant; (2) a description of the area to be served by such programs; (3) assurances that special consideration will be given to the finding of jobs which provide prospects for advancement by providing specified training and manpower services; (4) a description of recruitment methods, unmet public service needs, and jobs to be filled; and (5) assurances that all persons employed by the applicant shall be Indians except for good cause shown in isolated cases. Provides for the allocation of funds under this Act. Requires that not less than 80 percent of the funds shall be expended only for wages and employment benefits to persons employed in public service jobs pursuant to this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish procedures for periodic reviews by an appropriate agency of the status of each of the applicant tribes and of each of the persons employed in a public service job under this Act. Sets forth the circumstances under which the Secretary shall not provide financial assistance under this Act. Requires the submission of periodic reports to the Secretary including data on (1) characteristics of participants including age, sex, race, health, education level, and previous wage and employment experience; (2) duration in employment situations, and (3) total dollar cost per participant. Authorizes for the purposes of carrying out the provisions of this Act appropriations of $150,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978 and 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 1973
Amtrak Improvement Act - Directs the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, under the National Passenger Service Act, to establish an auto-ferry service, characterized by the carriage of automobiles or other property belonging to passengers. Provides that the Corporation shall insure that no elderly or handicapped person is denied intercity transportation by: (1) acquiring special equipment; (2) eliminating architectural barriers; and (3) providing special assistance while boarding and alighting in terminal areas. Authorizes the Corporation to acquire property which is required for construction of facilities for intercity rail passenger service. Sets forth the procedure for exercise of such eminent domain proceedings. Authorizes the Corporation to: (1) establish improved reservation sytems and advertising; (2) service railroad passenger equipment; (3) conduct research in rail passenger services; (4) establish essential fixed facilities; and (5) operate international intercity rail passenger service between points within the United States, Canada (including Montreal and Vancouver) and Mexico (including Nuevo Laredo). Provides that the Corporation is not subject to any State or local law interfering with its efficient provisions of mail, express, or auto-ferry service. Stipulates that if the Corporation and a railroad or government agency are unable to agree on the terms for sale of property to the Corporation, the Corporation may apply to the Interstate Commerce Commission for an order establishing the Corporation's need for such property and directing its conveyance, with just compensation. Directs the Corporation to initiate not less than one experimental route each year, to be operated for not less than two years. Authorizes appropriations of up to $185,000,000 for fiscal year 1974 for payment to the Corporation. Empowers the Commission to promulgate such regulations as necessary to provide adequate intercity rail passenger service. Provides penalties for violation of any such regulations.
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1973
Interim Fisheries Zone Extension and Management Act - Extends the jurisdiction of the United States over specified ocean areas and fish for purposes of protecting the domestic fishing industry. Authorizes the appropriation of up to $1,000,000 in any fiscal year to carry out the provision of this Act. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to conduct research in order to promote the conservation of fish originating in the United States territorial sea and contiguous fisheries zone.
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 1973
Endangered Species Conservation Act - States that the purposes of this Act are to provide a program for the conservation, protection, restoration, or propagation of species and subspecies of fish and wildlife and flora that are threatened with extinction, or are likely within the foreseeable future to become threatened with extinction. Sets forth the procedure by which the Secretaries of Interior and Agriculture shall determine if a species or subspecies of fish or wildlife or flora shall be regarded as an endangered species. Lists the following factors to be considered in determining if a species or subspecies is threatened with extinction will likely become threatened with extinction: (1) the present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range; (2) overutilization for commercial, sporting, scientific, or educational purposes; (3) disease or predation; (4) the inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms; or (5) other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence. Provides that the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register, not less than annually, a list by scientific and common names or species and subspecies determined to be endangered. Provides that the Secretary may, from time to time, by regulation, revise such list. Provides that the Secretary shall utilize the land acquisition and other authorities of the Migratory Bird Conservation Act, as amended, the Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956, as amended, and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, as appropriate, to carry out a program in the United States of conserving, protecting, restoring, or propagating those species and subspecies of fish and wildlife that he lists as endangered species pursuant to this Act. Provides that, in carrying out the program authorized by this Act, the Secretary shall cooperate to the maximum extent practicable with the several States. States that such cooperation shall include consultation before the acquisition of any land for the purpose of conserving, protecting, restoring, or propagating any endangered species. Authorizes the Secretary to delegate to a State the authority to regulate the taking by any person of endangered species or subspecies when he determines that such State maintains an adequate and active endangered species program consistent with the policies and purposes of this Act. Provides that any person who: (1) imports into or exports from the United States, receives or causes to be so imported, received, or exported; or (2) takes or causes to be taken within the United States, the territorial sea of the United States, Federal lands, or upon the high seas; or (3) ships, carries, or receives by any means in interstate commerce any species or subspecies which is listed as an endangered species, shall be punished in accordance with the provisions of this Act. Allows exceptions from the prohibitions contained in this Act to permit the taking of an endangered species for scientific purposes and for the propagation of such fish and wildlife in captivity for preservation purposes. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for violations of the provisions of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to promulgate such regulations as may be appropriate to carry out the pruposes of this Act. Provides that any person who engages in business as an importer of fish and wildlife must register with the Secretary of the Treasury his name and address of each place of business at which, and all trade names under which, he conducts such business. Requires each such person to keep such records as will fully and correctly disclose each importation of fish and wildlife made by him and the subsequent disposition of such fish and wildlife. States that the Secretary, through the Secretary of State, shall seek the convening of an international ministerial meeting on fish and wildlife prior to July 1, 1973, to assure the worldwide conservation of endangered species and to avoid unnecessary harm to affected United States industries. Provides that, whenever the Secretary determines that a species of fish or wildlife is an endangered species, the Secretary of Agriculture may use all authorities available to him with respect to research, investigations, conservation, protection, control and management of such endangered species.
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1973
State Taxation of Multistate Taxpayers Act - Title I: General Provisions - Sets forth the definition of terms used in this Act. States that no State or political subdivision thereof may: (1) impose a net income tax or a capital stock tax on any corporation unless such corporation maintains a business location therein during a substantial portion of the taxable year; (2) impose a gross receipts tax with respect to any sale of tangible personal property unless the seller of such property maintains a business location therein: (3) require any person to collect and remit a sales or use tax with respect to an interstate sale of tangible personal property under specified circumstances; or (4) require any seller without a business location therein to collect or pay a sales or use tax when such seller has obtained in writing the buyer's registration number in accordance with this Act. States that an advance payment of a sales or use tax to a seller, as agent for a State, made by a purchaser of tangible personal property for resale shall not constitute a sales or use tax for purpose of this Act if credit for the advance payment is allowed in determining sales tax liability of the purchaser under statutory provisions in effect in any State prior to January 1, 1973. Provides that a State or political subdivision shall have power to impose a corporate net income tax or a capital stock tax, or a gross receipts tax with respect to a sale of tangible personal property or to require a seller to collect a sales or use tax with respect to an interstate sale of tangible personal property, subject to the limitations of this Act, if it is not denied the power to do so under the Constitution of the United States or any Federal statute. Title II: Maximum Income or Capital Attributable to Taxing Jurisdiction - States that a State or a political subdivision thereof may not impose on a corporation with a business location in more than one State a net income tax (or capital stock tax) measured by an amount of net income (or capital) in excess of the amount determined by a specified formula. Title III: Sales and Use Taxes - Permits a State or political subdivision thereof to impose a sales or use tax or require a seller to collect a sales or use tax with respect to an interstate sale of tangible personal property only if the destination of the sale is: (1) in that State, or (2) in a contiguous State or political subdivision of a contiguous State for which the tax is required to be collected under reciprocal collection agreements. States that the amount of any use tax imposed with respect to tangible personal property shall be reduced by the amount of any sales or use tax previously incurred and paid by a person with respect to the property on account of liability to another State or political subdivision thereof. Provides that a person who pays a use tax imposed with respect to tangible personal property shall be entitled to a refund from the State or political subdivision thereof imposing the tax, up to the amount of the tax so paid, for any sales or use tax subsequently paid with respect to the same property on account of prior liability to another State or political subdivision thereof. Sets forth limitations on credits for prior taxes. States that nothing in this Act shall affect the power of a State or political subdivision thereof to impose or require the collection of a sales or use tax with respect to vehicles that are registered in the State. Provides that nothing in this Act shall affect the power of a State or political subdivision thereof to impose or require the collection of a sales or use tax with respect to motor fuels consumed in the State. States that no State or political subdivision thereof may impose a sales tax, use tax, or other nonrecurring tax measured by cost or value with respect to household goods, including motor vehicles, brought into the State by a person who establishes residence in that State if the goods were acquired and used by that person 90 days or more before use of the property in the State in which he establishes such residence. Provides where the freight charges or other charges for transporting tangible personal property from the seller or supplier directly to the purchaser incidental to an interstate sale are separately stated in writing by the seller to the purchaser, to the extent that such charges do not exceed a reasonable charge for transportation by facilities of the seller or the charge for the transportation by the carrier when the transportation is by other than the seller's facilities, no State or political subdivision may include such charges in the measure of a sales or use tax imposed with respect to the sale or use of the property. States that a person with a business location in a State and purchasing goods in interstate commerce must obtain a registration number from that State. Provides that no seller shall be liable for the collection or payment of a sales or use tax with respect to an interstate sale of tangible personal property if the purchaser of such property furnishes or has furnished to the seller a certificate or other written form of evidence indicating the basis for exemption, or the reason the seller is not required to pay or collect the tax. Title IV: Jurisdiction of Federal Courts - Provides that the United States Court of Claims shall have jurisdiction to review de novo any issues relating to a dispute arising under this Act or under Public Law 86-272, as amended. States that the determination of a dispute arising hereunder by the Court of Claims shall be binding for the taxable years involved on any State given notice or appearing as a party, notwithstanding any prior determinations of the courts or administrative bodies of that State completed after notice to that State. Provides that no statute of limitations shall bar the right of a State or a corporation to an amount of tax increased or decreased in accordance with the determination, provided action is begun within one year after the determination has become final. Title V: Miscellaneous Provisions - States that the fact that a tax to which this Act applies is imposed by a State or political subdivision thereof in the form of a franchise, privilege, or license tax shall not prevent the imposition of the tax on a person engaged exclusively in interstate commerce within the State; but such a tax may be enforced against a person engaged exclusively in interstate commerce within the State solely as a revenue measure and not by ouster from the State or by criminal or other penalty for engaging in commerce within the State without permission from the State. Provides that no provisions of State law shall make any person liable for a greater amount of sales or use tax with respect to tangible personal property, by virtue of the location of any occurrence in a State outside the taxing State, than the amount of the tax for which such person would otherwise be liable if such occurrence were within the State. States that no charge may be imposed by a State or political subdivision thereof to cover any part of the cost of conducting outside that State an audit for a tax to which this Act applied including a net income tax imposed on an excluded corporation. Provides that no State or political subdivision thereof shall have the power, after the date of the enactment of this Act, to assess against any person any tax for any period ending on or before such date in or for which that person become liable for such tax if during such period the State or political subdivision would not have had the power to assess such tax had the provisions of title I of this Act been in effect during such period. States the State in which a corporation is incorporated may impose a capital account tax on the corporation without division of capital, notwithstanding the jurisdictional standard and limitation on attribution otherwise imposed by this Act. Sets forth the effective dates for the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1973
Makes it the sense of the Senate that the President is urged and requested to submit proposals to the Congress, beginning with extending the coverage provided under the supplementary medical insurance program of part B of Medicare to cover essential out-of-hospital prescription drugs. Requests the President to submit additional recommendations to the Congress for legislation to strengthen and improve Medicare coverage by September 1, 1973. Provides that the recommendation of the President to increase out-of-pocket payments for the aged and disabled under Medicare should be withdrawn.
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1973
Makes it a crime, in connection with the sale or distribution of goods, services, or other property in interstate or foreign commerce or by the use of the mails, to sell, offer, or attempt to sell a participation or the right to participate in a pyramid sales scheme. Provides for a fine of not more than $10,000 or imprisonment for not more than five years, or both for anyone who violates the provisions of this Act. Makes any contract made in violation of this Act void and provides that any person who induces another person to participate in such a sales scheme liable to that person in an amount equal to the sum of twice the amount of consideration paid, plus a reasonable attorney's fee. Authorizes the Attorney General or the chief law enforcement officer of the State in which any person is engaged in a pyramid sales scheme to bring an action in the appropriate United States district court to enjoin such act or practice.
United States · United States Congress · 31 May 1973
Provides that Federal agencies keep standing congressional committees fully and currently informed of matters relating to that agency which are within the jurisdiction of such committee.
United States · United States Congress · 29 May 1973
Northeast Railroad Restructuring Act - Title I: Short Title and So Forth - Sets forth the congressional findings and declaration of purpose. Title II: Creation of the Northeast Railroad Corporation - Authorizes the creation of a Northeast Railroad Corporation which would be established under the laws of a State, and not be an agency or establishment of the United States Government. Directs the President to appoint three incorporators by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, one of whom the President shall designate to serve as chairman. Directs the President to appoint a board of advisors consisting of 17 persons. Provides that the board of advisors would formulate and submit from time to time to the incorporators recommendations respecting the preparation of the service plan under this Act and the conduct of other functions of the incorporators. Provides that the board would cease to exist on the date the incorporators are succeeded by a board of directors elected under this Act. Authorizes not to exceed $40,000,000 to be appropriated to the Secretary for payment to the Corporation for the purpose of meeting the necessary expenses of the board of incorporators and the board of advisors and other expenses necessarily incurred in organizing the Corporation. Provides that the Corporation and any corporation it may create shall have the powers vested in the Corporation under this Act and the powers conferred upon them under the laws of the State in which they are incorporated and the usual powers of a railroad under the laws of any State in which they operate. Authorizes the Corporation to carry out various actions and to exercise powers as necessary to carry out the service plan and agreements approved under title III of this Act. Title III: Restructuring of the Northeast Rail System - Requires the Secretary of Transportation to prepare a preliminary report containing his recommendations for the identification of geographic zones in the eastern district within and between which rail freight service shall be provided and the minimum number of railroads that shall provide the service. Requires the Secretary, within 30 days after the date of enactment of the Act, to make the preliminary report available for comment by the Interstate Commerce Commission, States, shippers, and others. Affords such parties 30 days to submit written comments before the Secretary is required within 90 days after the date of enactment of the Act to issue his final report on Core rail service. Requires each railroad in the eastern district to compile and submit to the Secretary and the Corporation within 180 days after the date of enactment of the Act data respecting the physical and operating characteristics of its railroad lines. Requires the Corporation to prepare a plan for the operation of rail services provided by bankrupt railroads in the eastern district and other railroads with which it negotiates agreements under this Act. Requires the Corporation in a manner consistent with the service plan to enter into specified agreements with respect to the operation of any railroad required under this Act. Requires the Corporation to submit to the Secretary within 300 days after the date of enactment of the Act the service plan and the agreements entered into under this Act. Requires the Secretary to make the findings required by this Act 30 days after he receives the service plan and to approve the service plan and the agreements if he finds they meet the requirements of this Act. Requires the trustees of bankrupt railroads to submit for approval to the appropriate reorganization courts: (1) the agreements negotiated under this Act under which the Corporation is to acquire the assets of the bankrup railroads; and (2) the agreements between bankrupt railroads and representatives of their employees providing for fair and equitable arrangements for employees of those railroads who are not to be hired by the Corporation by the time it implements rail service under the Act. Establishes a procedure for the transfer to a single district court of all proceedings respecting the review of all agreements submitted to the reorganization courts for approval under this Act. States that in the case of agreements negotiated under which the Corporation is to acquire the assets of bankrupt railroads, the sole issues before the court shall be whether the agreements are in the best interests of the debtor's estate and whether, in approving the service plan, the Secretary considered its overall environmental consequences in compliance with the policies of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Provides that, except with respect to the judicial review provided this Act, there shall not be any judicial review of any aspect of the Secretary's actions or failure to act under this Act. Title IV: Regulation of Service - States that, except as otherwise provided in Title IV, on and after the date the Corporation begins rail service, it shall be deemed a common carrier by railroad within the meaning of the Interstate Commerce Act and shall be subject to that Act. Authorizes bankrupt railroads in the eastern district to abandon the operation of any rail service within any zone for which no rail service is designated in the final report issued by the Secretary under this Act. Requires the bankrupt railroad to provide 60 days notice of the discontinuance to State governors and publish notice in accordance with the Interstate Commerce Act. Authorizes any bankrupt or any other railroad which agrees to transfer rail assets to the Corporation under this Act and thereafter transfers any assets to the Corporation to abandon the operation of any rail service not included in the service plan approved by the Secretary under Title III of the Act. Authorizes any bankrupt or other railroad which does not agree to transfer rail assets to the Corporation under this Act but thereafter transfers a portion of its rail assets to the Corporation to abandon the operation of any rail service provided over those assets on the date that the Corporation, by contract or otherwise, begins rail service thereon. Permits the Corporation during the first two years of providing service to abandon any rail service following changed market or other conditions or a natural disaster, after providing 60 days' notice as indicated above and after the Secretary finds that there is no reasonable prospect that the service can become self-sustaining under efficient and economical management. States that if a rail line used for service discontinued is no longer required by the entity which provided the service, the line may be abandoned if the entity holds open for not less than 120 days after the discontinuance of service an offer to sell the rail line intact for railroad purposes or to contract with any person including a State or local government for the continuation of rail service thereon on terms and conditions that insure the entity does not incur any losses as a result of the provision of the service. Title V: Federal Income Tax - Sets forth special provisions under the Internal Revenue Code applicable to the transfer of assets under this Act. Title VI: Miscellaneous - Requires the Corporation to keep such records as the Secretary may prescribe which disclose the amount and disposition by the Corporation of payments received by the Corporation. Authorizes access by the Secretary and the Comptroller General for the purpose of audit and examination to any books and papers of the Corporation that are pertinent to such payments. States that nothing in the Act shall preclude a State or local jurisdiction from imposing on the Corporation in accordance with laws of such State or local jurisdiction any valid nondiscriminatory tax.
United States · United States Congress · 29 May 1973
Federal-Aid Railroad Act - Title I: Findings, Purposes, and Definitions - Sets forth Congressional findings and purposes and the definition of the terms used in this Act. Title II: Interim and Emergency Measures - States that within 90 days after enactment of this Act, the trustee or trustees of any railroad in reorganization, all owners of rail lines leased to such railroad, whether ratified or affirmed or not, and all wholly owned subsidiaries and affiliates of such railroad, upon authorization therefor from the reorganization court, may tender all lines and other transportation properties, assets, and interests of such companies to the United States for lease by the United States for a term not to exceed three years. Provides that within 30 days of the receipt of such tender, the United States shall execute a lease agreement, and shall concurrently execute an operating agreement with the trustees or companies making such tender, and the operating agreement shall be executed by such trustees or companies as of the same date. States that as consideration for leasing the lines and other transportation properties, assets, and interests tendered for lease under this Act, and for their operation by the lessor, the United States shall pay to the lessors an amount to be negotiated between the trustee or trustees of the railroad in reorganization and the Interstate Commerce Commission, which amount shall be the least amount necessary to protect the interests of the creditors of such railroad during the period such lease is in effect and to carry out the other purposes of this Act. States that within 30 days after the execution of a lease and operating agreement, as provided in this Act, the Commission shall enter into an investigation of the railroad service performed by the lessor railroad; whereupon the Commission may direct all railroads in the area served by the lessor railroad, including the lessor railroad, and other interested parties to submit within 30 days, unless such period is extended by the Commission, recommendations indicating steps deemed prudent to preserve essential services performed by the lessor railroad and to eliminate or reduce operating losses of the lessor railroad, including plans for restructuring railroad service in the area served by the lessor railroad. States that in adopting a plan of restructuring the Commission shall give consideration: (1) to the effect cessation of such railroad service would have on the industries in the area involved; (2) to any plan which may have been mutually agreed to by employee unions and railroads to increase the efficiency of operations of the distressed railroad; (3) to any aid which States or other governmental agencies in the area are granting or propose to grant, and (4) the availability of alternate transportation. Provides that any plan of restructuring shall provide for reasonable protection for employees affected, subject to further relief which may be recommended to the President and Congress by the Commission. Sets forth the penalties for the willful failure or refusal to comply with the terms of any order of the Commission pursuant to this Act. Title III: The Federal-Aid Railroad System - States that the Federal-aid railroad system shall consist initially of those main lines, yards, and terminals, located in the Northeast region and operated by domestic railroad companies, found by the Commission to be essential to the present and future public convenience and necessity and best suited for inclusion on an integrated system of main-line, yard, and terminal facilities capable of meeting the needs of commerce of the United States and the national defense. Provides that within one hundred twenty days after the enactment of this Act, any railroad company or railroad companies jointly may file with the Commission an application seeking the designation of any main line, yard, or terminal operated by it or them, and located in the Northeast region, as part of the System. States that concurrently with the designation of the System under this title, the Commission shall prescribe standards for the rehabilitation and maintenance of all main-line track on the system for dependable operation of freight trains at speeds up to sixty miles an hour and passenger trains at speeds up to eighty miles an hour, and of all yards and terminals on the system for the efficient switching and classification of cars. States that as soon as practicable after the plans, specifications, and estimates for a specific project have been approved, the Commission shall enter into a formal project agreement with the railroad concerning the construction and maintenance of such project. States that all rehabilitation, maintenance, and improvement work performed pursuant to this Title shall be undertaken by the railroad and shall be done by railroad employees. Provides that upon execution of a project agreement, the Commission is authorized to reimburse railroads for funds expended by them in carrying out the design and construction of projects approved by it for inclusion on the System. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Commission such sums as may be necessary to bring all rail lines, yards, and terminals on the system into compliance with the requirements of this title and of the Rail Safety Act of 1970, and for the administration of this title, but not to exceed $400,000,000 in any fiscal year. Imposes upon the amount paid within the United States for the transportation of property, except by air, from one point in the United States to another, beginning 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, a tax equal to one percent of the amount so paid. Provides that the tax imposed by this Act shall be paid by the person making the payment subject to the tax. Title IV: Local Rail Services - Sets forth procedures to be followed regarding railroad abandonment under the Interstate Commerce Act. Provides that any construction, operation, or abandonment contrary to the provisions of the Interstate Commerce Act may be enjoined by any United States district court of competent jurisdiction at the suit of the United States, the Commission, any commission or regulating body of the State or States affected, or any party in interest; and any carrier which, or any director, officer, receiver, operating trustee, lessee, agent, or person, acting for or employed by such carrier, who knowingly authorizes, consents to or permits any violation of the provisions of this Act shall be fined not more than $5,000 or imprisoned not more than three years, or both. Authorizes the Commission pursuant to regulations prescribed by it to reimburse a State for 70 percent of the amount paid by such State as operating subsidy to continue service on a rail line or lines that would otherwise have been abandoned. States that the Commission shall not reimburse a State for operating subsidy paid to a State for operating subsidy paid to a railroad unless such State has adopted legislation extending authority to the Governor or other appropriate State official or agency to perform its obligations in accordance with the terms of this title and regulation issued by the Commission. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Commission not to exceed $50,000,000 of this title.
United States · United States Congress · 29 May 1973
States that, the following action by any State, or subdivision or agency thereof, whether such action be taken pursuant to a constitutional provision, statute, or administrative order or practice, or otherwise, is hereby declared to constitute an unreasonable and unjust discrimination against and an undue burden upon interstate commerce under the Interstate Commerce Act and is hereby forbidden and declared to be unlawful: (1) the assessment, for purposes of a property tax levied by any taxing district, of transportation property owned or used by any common or contract carrier subject to economic regulation pursuant to the provisions of the Interstate Commerce Act at a value which bears a higher ratio to the true market value of such transportation property than the assessed value of all other industrial and commercial property in the assessment jurisdiction of any State in which is included such taxing district and subject to a property tax levy bears to the true market value of all such other commercial and industrial property; (2) the collection of any tax on the portion of such assessmen so declared to be unlawful; or (3) the collection of any ad valorem property tax on such transportation property at a tax rate higher than the tax rate generally applicable to commercial and industrial property in the taxing district.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1973
Establishes within the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture a Youth Conservation Corps. Specifies that the Corps shall consist of young men and women between the ages of 15 and 19 whom the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture may employ without regard to civil service classification regulations for the purpose of developing, preserving, and maintaining the lands and waters of the U.S. Outlines the functions of the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture under this Act. Provides for a program of grants to the States to assist in meeting the costs of this Act. Requires the Secretary of the Interior and Agriculture to prepare a joint report to be annually submitted to the President and Congress. Authorizes to be appropriated the sum of $150,000,000 for each fiscal year to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1973
Permits an official or agency of a State having authority to administer the election laws of the State to mail election material to voters of the State free of postage if such material conforms to the conditions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1973
Makes it the sense of Congress that, in order to accomplish the goals of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act and the Highway Safety Act of 1966, the States should take decisive action to reduce the unacceptable highway death and injury toll by adopting laws requiring the use of safety belts in motor vehicles. Makes it the sense of Congress that, in order to ensure the enactment of effective and practicable safety belt usage laws, the States should consider inclusion in such laws of provisions that are consistent with the principles enumerated in this concurrent resolution. Makes it the sense of Congress that the Secretary of Transportation shall provide technical assistance to the States to aid them in their efforts to enact effective and practicable laws requiring the use of safety belts in motor vehicles.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1973
Authorizes the President to issue a proclamation designating the seven-day period beginning May 27, 1973, and ending June 2, 1973, as "National Halibut Week," and calls upon the people of the United States to observe such week with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1973
Directs the Federal Power Commission to make studies of the production, gathering, storage, transportation distribution and sale of natural or artificial gas, however produced, throughout the United States. (Amends 15 U.S.C. 717m)
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 1973
National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Authorization Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to conduct investigations of motor vehicle crashes to gather information to identify design defects relating to motor vehicle safety, and to assist in the preparation of Federal motor vehicle safety standards for new and used motor vehicles. Requires the Secretary to cooperate with State and local officials while conducting his investigations. Authorizes officers or employees duly designated by the Secretary: (1) to enter, at reasonable times and in a reasonable manner, any premises where a motor vehicle or item of motor vehicle equipment involved in a motor accident is located; (2) to impound temporarily for a period not to exceed 72 hours such motor vehicle or item of motor vehicle equipment; and (3) to inspect such motor vehicle or item of motor vehicle equipment. Requires that whenever an inspection and/or impounding of a vehicle by the Secretary results in the denial of the use of the vehicle to its owner or reduction in value of the vehicle, the Secretary shall pay reasonable compensation to the vehicle owner. Authorizes the Secretary to obtain a copy of an autopsy report prepared by State and local officials concerning a person who dies in or as a result of a motor vehicle crash. Provides that no portion of any statement or information furnished the Secretary by an individual and no portion of any report of the Secretary relating to a motor vehicle crash or the investigation thereof shall be admissable in any subsequent criminal, civil, or administrative proceeding. Permits the Secretary to seek an injunction against the sale, offer for sale, or the introduction or delivery for introduction in interstate commerce, or the importation into the United States, of any motor vehicle or item of motor vehicle equipment that contains a defect which relates to motor vehicle safety. Requires the Secretary, whenever practicable, to give notice to any person against whom injunctive relief is contemplated, and afford such person an opportunity to present his views and to remedy the defect. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct such inspection and investigation as may be necessary to enforce the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act and any rules and regulations issued thereunder. Requires that dealers and distributors of motor vehicles and motor vehicle equipment furnish the Secretary with such information and data as he may require to carry out his enforcement responsibilities. Provides that a manufacturer, pursuant to the Secretary's determination of noncompliance with applicable Federal motor vehicle safety standards or the existence of defects, shall send a notice to purchasers, containing a clear description of the noncompliance or defect, an evaluation of the risk to traffic safety, and a statement of the measures taken to remedy such defect or failure. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) plan, design, and construct new facilities; (2) alter existing facilities; (3) lease facilities, and (4) acquire or lease real property for use as sites for new facilities or the alteration of existing facilities, suitable to conduct research and other testing in traffic, including highway safety and motor vehicle safety.
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 1973
Declares that on Memorial Day, May 28, 1973, special remembrance be given by a grateful people to the 1,288 members of the Armed Forces of the United States currently listed as missing in action in Indochina. Declares that all American motorists are encouraged to turn on their automobile lights throughout Memorial Day, May 28, 1973, as a symbol of this remembrance. Provides that every effort be made to secure the cooperation of all parties in the Indochina conflict to insure the fullest and most expeditious resolution of the status of members of the U.S. Armed Forces missing in Indochina.
United States · United States Congress · 9 May 1973
Title I: Amendment to the Federal TradeCommission Act - Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission to issue an order that commodities be excluded from entry whenever the Commission finds that unfair methods of competition or unfair acts are being employed in the importation of such commodities in the United States or in their sale by the owner, importer, consignee, or agent of either, where the effect or tendency of such conduct is to destroy or substantially injure an industry, efficiently and economically operated, in the United States, or is to restrain or monopolize trade and commerce in the United States, or is to substantially impair competition within the United States. Provides that before a Commission order that articles be excluded becomes final or is published, the Secretary of the Treasury may take into account whether the exclusion of the commodity in question would have or be likely to have a significant adverse effect upon the economic interest of the United States. States that if the Secretary so determines, he must so notify theCommission within thirty days of the transmittal of the order to Treasury. Title II: Amendments to the Export Trade Act - Includes architectural; engineering, training, financing, and project or general management services within the meaning of "export trade" to be conducted by or through a trade association and subject to immunity from the antitrust laws under the Export Trade Act. States that intangible trade in patents, licenses, trade secrets or knowhow are not covered, except such knowhow as is incidental to goods, wares, merchandise or services enumerated in the Act, as amended. Provides that foreign persons or firms may not be members of an association registered under this Act. Exempts from the antitrust laws, including state laws on antitrust and unfair methods of competition, the export trade conducted by or through an association and the organization of that association, if "substantially in conformance with an effective registration statement" filed with the Federal Trade Commission in accordance with this Act. Provides that detailed information must be supplied in the registration statement to be filed with the Commission, concerning the organization of the association, its location, offices and members; a description of the export trade conducted or proposed to be conducted; methods by which the export trade is to be conducted and any agreements with domestic or foreign entities concerning that trade; names of all countries where export trade is to be conducted; information concerning the impact of the association or trade within the United States or on exports by domestic non-members, and the like. Requires that after receipt of a registration application the Commission shall immediately deliver the application to the Attorney General. States that within 90 days after delivery, the Attorney General shall submit a report "on the effect which the export trade to be conducted by or through the association would likely have on competition in the United States, or upon exports by domestic non-members." Provides that the Commission may also request the views of other federal departments and agencies on any application. Grants the Federal Trade Commission exclusive authority to determine, on its own initiative or upon motion of the Attorney General or any interested person, whether any action by a registered group in connection with export trade is not in conformance with its registration statement. States that if such is the case, the Commission may: (1) require that the statement be amended; (2) require that the association modify its organization or practices; (3) revoke the registration in whole or in part; and/or (4) recommend prosecution under the antitrust laws to the Department of Justice. Authorizes the Commission to issue such rules and regulations as may be necessary to effectuate the Act. States that this Act shall terminate on December 31, 1978, unless extended prior thereto by act of Congress. Provides that its termination shall in no way diminish or affect antitrust immunity concerning the organization and operation of any registered association prior to termination.
United States · United States Congress · 9 May 1973
Provides a monetary penalty for the transportation of merchandise in violation of the coastwise laws under the Merchant Marine Act. (Amends 46 U.S.C. 883)
United States · United States Congress · 9 May 1973
Fire Prevention And Control Act - Declares it to be the finding of Congress that the federal government must help to develop solutions to fire problems. States that the intention of Congress is to supplement existing programs of fire research, training, and education, and to encourage new and improved programs and activities by State and local governments. Title I: United States Fire Administration - Establishes, within the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the United States Fire Administration. Sets forth the duties of the Administration, including: (1) to survey the fire problem, evaluate progress in fire prevention, assess new problem areas, and to evaluate the cost; (2) to recommend actions to be taken by federal, state, and local governments and private organizations and individuals to improve fire prevention; (3) to act as a coordinator of studies of fire protection methods; (4) to cooperate with and render assistance to other federal departments, and to all organizations in matters relating to fire prevention and control; and (5) to undertake research relating to fire prevention and control. Title II: National Fire Academy - Establishes, within the Administration, a National Fire Academy; (1) to facilitate specialized training in fire protection; (2) to assist State and local jurisdictions in planning and implementing fire protection programs; (3) to assist in the dissemination of information on fire prevention and control; and (4) to encourage fire protection agencies to give greater attention to fire prevention measures. Directs the Academy to establish a Nationa Fire Academy Advisory Board. Sets forth composition and compensation of Board members. Title III: National Fire Data System - Establishes within the Administration a National Fire Data System. Directs the System to collect data on fire injuries and deaths, property losses, and information concerning causes, locations, and numbers of fires, to be incorporated into an information retrieval system. Title IV: Research and Development - Sets forth the functions and responsibilities of the Administration, including to (1) evaluate the total area of fire research needs in the Federal, state, and local government sectors and the private sector; (2) sponsor and encourage research into promising but highly unconventional solutions to fire problems; and (3) encourage research or firefighting equipment and personal protective equipment for firefighters. Title V: Grants for State and Local Program Assistance - Directs the Administration to make grants to States for (1) the establishment and operation of state fire prevention and control planning agencies; and (2) for programs to improve and strengthen fire prevention and control. Sets forth the requirements a State plan must encompass in order to receive grants. Directs the allocation of funds appropriated to the Administration for the purpose of making grants. Title VI: Functions of Certain Other Federal Agencies - Expands the authorizations of the Secretary of Commerce to include specified fire research and safety programs. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish, within the National Institutes of Health, a program to augment current sponsorship of research on burns and burn treatment. Requires the Federal Insurance Administration to provide low-cost insured loans to homeowners and businessmen for the purpose of installing fire protection equipment. Title VII: Administrative Provisions - Grants the Administration specified powers in carrying out its functions including (1) the power to hold hearings; and (2) to use services of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Sets forth the procedure to be followed when an application for a grant has been rejected. Directs the Administration to carry out the programs of this Act during fiscal year 1974, and for the five succeeding fiscal years. Authorizes appropriations of $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, $50,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, and $128,000,000 for fiscal year 1976, and for succeeding fiscal years such sums as the Congress might authorize. Title VIII: General Provisions - Makes the provisions of this Act separable if one is found invalid.
United States · United States Congress · 9 May 1973
International Voluntary Standards Cooperation Act - States the findings of the Congress that internationally recognized foreign standards can promote international trade and that effective participation in the development of such standards requires cooperation between the Government and industry. Declares that a purpose of the Act is to promote and support adequate representation of the United States in international voluntary standardization activities; to promote international trade through mutually appropriate implementation of international voluntary standardization agreements; and to improve the balance of trade and balance of payments of the United States. Defines the functions of the Secretary of Commerce relating to the administration of the Act. Gives the Secretary responsibility to identify international standardization activities where more participation by the United States is needed, to provide for appropriate participation, and to encourage appropriate use of voluntary international standards. Provides that the Secretary shall inform and consult with the Secretary of State concerning any contemplated action which involves the international relations of the United States, and requires the Secretary to utilize private capabilities and resources in performing his functions under the Act. Authorizes the Secretary to establish arrangements for United States representation through private nonprofit organizations and provides that the arrangements contain certain minimum safeguards to protect all affected persons including consumers, employees, and the general public. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct studies or investigations to carry out his functions under the Act; to examine the potential impact on international trade and the balance of trade and balance of payments of the United States, of international standards assurance systems and related activities; to provide grants to nonprofit organizations to assist them in the performance of international standardization activities under the Act; and to make advance payments. Authorizes the Secretary to establish a system for the evaluation and accreditation of testing laboratories or for organizations which oversee the work of testing laboratories. Requires the Secretary, prior to establishing such evaluation and accreditation system, to consult with affected private organizations and with the Committees established by this Act; and to publish in the Federal Register a notice of his intent to establish such a system. Requires the Secretary to establish arrangements for governmental participation in international standardization activities where private participation in such activities has proved insufficient to serve the purposes of this Act. Requires the public availability of lists of standards negotiated or developed under the Act and requires the Secretary to publish the full text of such standards if they are not available from private sources. Promotes the use of international voluntary standards developed under the Act and listed by the Secretary in Federal procurement. Authorizes Federal agencies to participate in the standardization activities on a reimbursable or nonreimbursable basis and specifically authorizes these agencies, with the knowledge of the Secretary, to provide the technical services of its employees to assist private nonprofit organizations in performing their activities under the Act. Authorizes the Secretary to establish policies and procedures to administer the Act. Provides that the Secretary may charge for the evaluation of laboratories performed and for the supplying of lists or full texts of standards. Authorizes him to use the fees received to reimburse the appropriation or fund which supported the service performed. Establishes an Interagency Committee on Standards Policy consisting of members representing various executive departments and agencies; and a Public Committee on International Standards Policy consisting of members representing consumers, users, manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, employees, and experts in international standards and standards assurance systems. Provides that such Committees shall assist and advise the Secretary in carrying out his responsibilities under the Act. States that the Federal Trade Commission may at any time petition the Secretary of Commerce for the removal of a voluntary international standard on the grounds that such standard is contrary to the public interest. Requires an annual report to be submitted by the President to the Congress. Requires that recipients of grants and contracts maintain records and grants the Secretary or the Comptroller General access to the books and records of grantees for the purpose of audit and to assure that standards developed are in the public interest. Provides that the international standardization activities shall not effect any law or requirement (such as mandatory standards) published by agencies of the Federal Government. Authorizes necessary appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 9 May 1973
States that when the National Railroad Passenger Corporation cannot acquire by contract, or is unable to agree with the owner of property as to the compensation to be paid for, any right-of-way, land or other property (except right-of-way, land or other property of a railroad or property of a State or local government or other public agency) required for the construction of tracks or other facilities necessary to provide intercity rail passenger service, it may acquire the same by the exercise of the right of eminent domain in the district court of the United States for the district in which the property is located, on in one such court in the event a single property is located in two districts. Sets forth the procedure to be followed for such acquisition. States that if the Corporation and a railroad are unable to agree upon terms for the sale to the Corporation of property (including interests in property) owned by the railroad and required for the construction of tracks or other facilities necessary to provide intercity rail passenger service, the Corporation may apply to the Interstate Commerce Commission for an order establishing the need of the Corporation for the property at issue and requiring the conveyance thereof from the railroad to the Corporation on reasonable terms and conditions, including just compensation. Provides that if at any time after June 30, 1973, the Board of Directors of the Corporation determines that the continuation of a train operated in the basic system on June 30, 1973, will impair the financial ability of the Corporation adequately to provide other intercity rail passenger service, the Corporation may discontinue the train. Provides that at least forty-five days prior to the discontinuance of a train under this subsection, the Corporation shall mail to the Governor of each State in which the train in question is operated and post in every station, depot, or other facility serviced thereby notice of the proposed discontinuance. Prohibits the Corporation from discontinuinig the train if, at least fifteen days prior to the date specified for discontinuance, a State, regional, or local public agency requests continuation of the service and, within ninety days following the date specified for discontinuance, agrees to reimburse the Corporation for a reasonable portion of any losses associated with the continuation of service beyond the notice period. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Secretary such sums as necessary to assist the Corporation in its functions. States that the aggregate unpaid principal amount of securities, obligations, or loans outstanding at any one time, which are guaranteed by the Secretary under the Rail Passenger Act, may not exceed $500,000,000. Authorizes the Interstate Commerce Commission to prescribe such regulations as it considers necessary to assure that the quality of service and accommodations offered passengers on board trains and at other facilities used in intercity rail passenger service is adequate, taking into account the safety regulations applicable to that service. States that any person who violates a regulation issued under this Act shall be subject to a civil penalty of not to exceed $500 for each violation and that each day a violation continues shall constitute a separate offense.
United States · United States Congress · 9 May 1973
Establishes the select committee to study the Senate Committee system to conduct a thorough study of the Senate committee system, the structure, jurisdiction, number and optimum size of Senate committees, the number of subcommittees, committee rules and procedures, media coverage of meetings, staffing, space, equipment, and other committee facilities, and to make recommendations which promote optimum utilization of Senators' time, optimum effectiveness of committees in the creation and oversight of Federal programs, clear and consistent procedures for the referral of legislation falling within the jurisdiction of two or more committees, and workable methods for the regular review and revision of committee jurisdictions. Limits the expenses of the select committee under this Resolution to not exceed $900,000. Requires the select committee to submit to the Senate a report of its findings, together with such recommendations as it deems advisable, at the earliest practicable date, but not later than June 1, 1974.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1973
Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare to make grants to, or enter into contracts with, public or private nonprofit institutions to pay the Federal share of the cost of research designed to identify the causes and to develop preventive measures to eliminate sudden infant death syndrome. Sets forth the activities for which a payment may be made under this Act. Provides that payment in any fiscal year to any single institution under this Act may not exceed $50,000. States that the Federal share of the cost of any activities for which application is made under this Act shall be 50 percent. Authorizes to be appropriated $2,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1974, to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1973
Permits the Secretary of Commerce under the International Travel Act to set and collect fees or charges for admissions, concessions, services, and space at any travel exposition, fair, or exhibit in such an amount as to defray, in whole or in part, the costs directly related to the establishment, operation, maintenance, and dismantlement of such exhibition, fair or exhibit and any such fee or charge may be credited to the appropriation from which such costs were obligated. Permits the Secretary to charge for any promotional publication and materials relating to travel and tourism. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1973
Extends the area in which unauthorized aids to maritime navigation are prohibited. Expands the Secretary's regulatory powers over aids to maritime navigation. Provides that regular lieutenants shall be retired after 20 years of active service if they have failed selection for lieutenant commander for the second time. Provides that each regular lieutenant commander and commander shall be retired after 20 years of active service if they have failed selection for captain for the second time. States that funds appropriated to or for the use of the Coast Guard fo acquisition, construction, and improvement of facilities; for research, development, test, and evaluation; and for the alteration of bridges over the navigable waters shall remain available until expended. Provides for education payments for dependents of Coast Guard personnel stationed outside of the continental United States. Provides that for eomputation of disability or death benefits for temporary members, such person shall be deemed to have had monthly pay of $600. States that to permit the enlistment of Reserve members without interruption of full-time schooling in which they are engaged, the four month initial period of active duty for training requirement may be divided into two successive annual periods of not less than two months each.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1973
Military Construction Authorization Act - Authorizes the Secretaries of the Army, Navy, and Air Force to establish or develop military installations and facilities by acquiring, constructing, converting, rehabilitating or installing permanent or temporary public works, appurtenances, utilities, and equipment at designated projects to the extent of the dollar amounts designated by this Act. Authorizes these Secretaries to establish and develop additional installation and facilities which: (1) the Secretary of Defense determines to be vital to the security of the United States; and (2) are made necessary by changes in the Services' missions and responsibilities. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to construct family housing units and trailer court facilities, after consultation with the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, in the locations designated by this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of funds needed to carry out the provisions of this Act. Reserve Forces Facilities Authorization Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to establish or develop additional facilities for the Reserve Forces of the Navy, Marine Corps, Air National Guard, and the Air Force Reserve.
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1973
Fair Marketing of Petroleum Products Act - Makes it unlawful for any person engaged in commerce in the business of refining petroleum into gasoline and other petroleum products and furnishing such products to petroleum distributors for sale at retail to fail to furnish gasoline or any other petroleum product to a petroleum retailer, whether or not such retailer is under a franchise to such person, at wholesale prices and in reasonable quantities so long as such person continues to furnish gasoline or any other petroleum product to petroleum retailers who are under a franchise to such person. States that a violation of this Act shall be an unfair or deceptive act or practice in commerce within the meaning of the Federal Trade Commission Act. Sets forth acts which will be considered prima facie evidence of a violation. Provides that, except as otherwise provided, a petroleum distributor whose actions affect commerce shall be liable to a petroleum retailer who sells the products of such distributor under a franchise for actual damages resulting from the termination, cancellation, or failure to renew such franchise, together with such equitable relief, including interim equitable relief, as the court deems proper and costs including a reasonable attorney's fee. States that no such action may be brought if the terms of such franchise provide for binding arbitration of disputes arising under such franchise, including disputes related to the termination, cancellation, or failure to renew such franchise, in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to cause to be conducted a study of economic forces, market power, and practices in the marketing of gasoline and other petroleum products to the American consumer including the effects of petroleum producers being directly or indirectly operating as petroleum distributors and petroleum retailers and shall report thereon, including recommendations for legislation, to the President and the Congress simultaneously not later than two years after the date of enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1973
Authorizes reduced rate transportation for handicapped persons and for persons who are sixty-five years of age or older or twenty-one years of age or younger under the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 and the Interstate Commerce Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1973
Increases the expenditures by the Committee on Commerce for inquiries and investigations as authorized by S. Res. 45, 93rd Congress, so that not to exceed $40,000 (instead of $10,000) shall be available for the procurement of the services of individual consultants or organizations thereof.
United States · United States Congress · 18 April 1973
Federal Appropriations Reform Act - Title I: Change of Fiscal Year - Provides that beginning June 30, 1974, the fiscal year shall coincide with the calendar year. Sets April 15 as the date for the submission to Congress of the President's budget and economic messages and economic reports. Title II: Separate Consideration of Appropriations Measures - Provides that the legislative period of Congress shall open on January 3 for exclusive consideration of legislative matters, August 15, and set a specific date by which all authorizations bills must be enacted. Provides that the fiscal period of Congress shall convene thereafter, at a date set by joint resolution upon the adjournment of the legislative period, for the exclusive consideration of appropriation bills. Provides that the fiscal period can last no longer than December 1. Directs that during both periods, all committees, legislative and appropriation, shall meet to consider matters under their jurisdiction. Allows them to hold hearings and conduct studies, but states only legislative committees can report bills or resolutions to the floor during a legislative period, while only appropriations committees can report bills to the floor during the fiscal period. Provides the following exceptions: (1) Congress can make supplemental or deficiency appropriations during a legislative period; (2) the president of the United States or the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House, acting jointly, may notify Congress that the consideration of specific bills is necessary because of a national emergency; and (3) during either the legislative or fiscal period, the Congress may consider overriding a veto by the President.
United States · United States Congress · 17 April 1973
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to establish the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in the States of Alaska and Washington. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of the Act.
United States · United States Congress · 16 April 1973
North Atlantic Fishing Operations Act - Authorizes the acceptance and enforcement of the International Convention on Conduct of Fishing Operations in the North Atlantic, signed on June 1, 1967, in London. Directs the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating, in cooperation with the Secretary of Commerce, to act through the U.S. Coast Guard to appoint Fisheries Conduct Officers to carry out the provisions of the Convention. Authorizes Fisheries Conduct Officers to investigate and report on apparent or reported violations, to seek information in cases of damage to ships or gear, to draw attention of vessels of contracting parties to the provisions of the convention, and to cooperate with authorized officers of other contracting parties. Authorizes such officers to board a vessel involved in damage to another vessel and its gear, and to offer to assist parties involved to reach a settlement, enforceable in any court of competent jurisdiction. Provides a civil penalty of not more than $1,000 for the first offense, and not more than $5,000 for the second offense for any person or vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the United States who violates provisions of the Convention. Provides a maximum $5,000 fine or imprisonment of not more than 3 years or both for any person on a U.S. vessel within the Convention area who fails to comply or prevents others from complying with requirements imposed by Fisheries Conduct Officers. Imposes maximum $25,000 fine and/or 3 years imprisonment for subsequent offenses committed within five years of any previous offense. Provides for the forfeiture of fishing gear involved in a subsequent violation in a separate civil action. Provides for arrest and search without warrant, for execution of warrant or process, for issuance of warrants, and for seizure of fishing gear involved and disposition of property so seized. States that with property subject to in rem process the marshal or other officer may stay execution or discharge property if process has been already leveied where the claimant puts up a bond or stipulation for double the value of the property with sufficient surety to be approved by a judge of the district court with jurisdiction of the offense. Provides that in a proceeding where a person in violation of the provisions of the Convention by causing personal injury or damage to property, and where there remains uncompensated damage which resulted from that violation the value of which does not substantially exceed $2,500, the court may give an additional judgment in an amount not to exceed $2,500 as compensation to be paid to the injured party. Provides for, in the absence of agreement among Contracting Parties concerning the resolution of disputes arising between a national of another Contracting Party and a person or persons subject to the jurisdiction of the United States as to damaged gear or damage to vessels resulting from entaglement of gear, for the appointment of a review board to examine the facts surrounding referred disputes. States that the review board shall consist of at least three members, a majority of whom must agree on any decision rendered. Specifies that the rules of decision for the review board will be the terms of the Convention and, to the extent not inconsistent therewith, the admiralty law of the United States and the international law of the sea. Provides that the decision of the review board will have the force and effect of a binding agreement between the parties which shall be enforceable in any court of competent jurisdiction.
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