United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1977
Authorizes necessary appropriations to carry out the provisions of the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974 for fiscal year 1978 and fiscal year 1979. Renames the National Fire Prevention and Control Administration the United States Fire Administration.
United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1977
Railroad Improvement Act - Amends the Department of Transportation Act to revise the time periods during which Federal financial assistance will be available for rail service assistance programs. Stipulates that any in-kind benefits for rail service assistance programs which a State may provide for any period in excess of the State's share of project costs for that period shall be applied toward that State's share in any subsequent period. Stipulates that whenever the costs of an approved project exceed the amount of rail freight service assistance to which a State is entitled, the Secretary of Transportation is authorized to provide assistance in any subsequent period to cover the costs of such project. Revises the method of computing the amount of rail service assistance a State is entitled to receive. Makes projects eligible for rail service assistance under such Act if the revenues attributable to the line or railroad related to the project are below a specified level or if the line or railroad which is related to the project are subject to abandonment. Stipulates that eligibility for assistance for lines or railroads subject to abandonment shall be limited to projects which have as their principal objective the elimination of deferred maintenance and rehabilitation. Prohibits the Secretary from withholding approval of a State rail freight program or project solely on the grounds that the State initiated the program or project without the Secretary's prior approval. Prohibits States from using Federal rail service assistance funds to make rail service continuation payments for projects which are eligible for such assistance solely because the railroad or line is subject to abandonment unless certain conditions are met. Stipulates that out of the funds authorized to be appropriated for rail service assistance programs no more than $10,000,000 shall make available for planning grants for each of the fiscal years 1976 through 1980. Amends the Rail Passenger Service Act to direct the Interstate Commerce Commission, when it orders a railroad to provide services or to allow the use of tracks or facilities of such railroad by the National Railroad Passenger Corporation to consider quality of service as a major factor in determining the amount of compensation to be paid to the railroad including reasonable adherence to the fastest practicable operations schedule. Amends the Regional Rail Reorganization Act to allow the Secretary of Transportation, the Deputy Secretary of Transportation, and the Chairman of the United States Railway Association to delegate their powers under such Act. Requires the Consolidated Rail Corporation to make such premium payments as are necessary to maintain in effect medical and life insurance policies of employees of railroads in reorganization. Revises the method of computing rail service continuation assistance to States under such Act. Stipulates that rail freight services which are eligible for rail service continuation assistance under such Act shall include rail services which are subject to abandonment. Limits such assistance to projects which have as their principal objective the elimination of deferred maintenance and rehabilitation of the rail line. Authorizes two or more States to combine their entitlements to rail service continuation assistance under such Act. Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to direct the Interstate Commerce Commission, whenever a cooperative assistance proposal and a valid financial offer was made under the Department of Transportation Act or a rail service continuation payment under such Act was not paid, to find that the public convenience and necessity permit the abandonment or discontinuance of such line. Directs the Commission, in promulgating accounting procedures for railroads, to require the accurate reporting of expenses for labor, materials, overhead, administration, and other activities. Amends the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 to establish as a goal of the Northeast Corridor improvement project, the development of equipment designed to be compatible with the track and operation of the travel market of the Northeast corridor. Increases the authorization for appropriations under such Act for improvements on nonoperational portions of stations used in intercity rail passenger service and on related facilities and fencing. Authorizes the appropriation of $75,000,000 for fiscal year 1979 for the purpose of making grants to State and local governmental entities to enable them to acquire abandoned railroad rights-of-way for recreational or conservational purposes.
United States · United States Congress · 29 June 1977
Optional Educational Simplification Act - Declares the purpose of this Act to be to provide an optional program of consolidation and simplification of certain Federal assistance programs to State and local educational agencies, and to provide such agencies with greater flexibility in the use of such assistance. Title I: Special Needs Programs - Directs States desiring to participate in such a program to design their programs to; (1) meet the special educational needs of children from low income families; (2) provide health, nutritional, and educational services of such children, including preschool children and those previously enrolled in Headstart or Follow Through programs; (3) meet the educational needs of migratory children, including preschool children; (4) meet the educational needs of handicapped children, and establish standards for such programs; and (5) provide bilingual instruction for children with limited English speaking ability, and such instruction and bilingual vocational training programs for adults. Specifies how a State shall allocate funds to local educational agencies for each of such programs under this Title. Title II: Vocational, Adult, and Continuing Education and Employment Training - Authorizes Federal grants to assist States to; (1) extend programs of vocational, homemaking, and consumer education; (2) develop new programs of vocational education; (3) develop and carry out programs to overcome sex discrimination and sex stereotyping in vocational education programs; and (4) provide part-time employment for youths in order for them to continue vocational training. Sets forth the programs for which funds provided under this Title may be used. Requires a State desiring to participate in such consolidation program authorized by such Act to develop programs for adult basic education and for children in adult correctional institutions. Requires a participating State to show how its education training programs relate to manpower programs established under the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act of 1973. Authorizes to be appropriated for each fiscal year ending prior to October 1, 1982, funds for such programs. Provides for the distribution of Federal funds to local educational agencies by the States for programs under this Title, and defines how they are to be allocated. Title III: Special Emphasis Projects - Requires a participating State to provide funds to local educational agencies for: (1) school library resources; (2) instructional equipment; (3) model elementary and secondary school programs; (4) counseling, testing, and guidance services; (5) nutrition and health services in low income area elementary and secondary schools; (6) programs aimed at lowering the dropout rate in secondary schools with high dropout rates; (7) strengthening the leadership resources of State and local educational agencies; (8) encouraging the use of the metric system; (9) education of gifted children; (10) career education; (11) educational equity for women; (12) drug and alcohol abuse projects; (13) curriculum materials on American ethnic groups and their contributions; (14) the Teacher Corps; (15) programs aimed at children with reading deficiencies; and (16) environmental activities. Directs that local educational agencies establish the needs and priorities of such programs. Provides for the allocation of State funds under this Title to local agencies. Title IV: General Provisions - Provides for the reserving of certain funds from the amounts appropriated to carry out programs consolidated by such Act, and the allocation of such reserved funds among those States participating in the consolidation program. Directs the United States Commissioner of Education to pay to each participating State an amount equal to the amount expended in that State for carrying out the State plan adopted pursuant to this Title. Provides for a participating State to receive a planning grant for use in preparing the comprehensive plan required by such Act. Authorizes appropriations for each fiscal year ending prior to October 1, 1981, to make these planning grants. Requires a State desiring to receive a grant for such consolidation program to; (1) designate a State agency to administer the financial assistance made available under this Act; (2) develop a four-year plan with an annual update; and (3) submit such plan or update to the Commissioner for his approval. Authorizes grants to States for the costs of administering the consolidation program. Requires a participating State to establish certain procedures for use in developing its comprehensive plan designed to assure: (1) the identification of children and adults with special educational and vocational needs; (2) determination of priorities by local education agencies; (3) participation of interested citizens, local government units, appropriate State agencies in the development of the plan; (4) coordination of consolidation funds with State, local, and other Federal funds extended for similar purposes; and (5) publication of the final plan or annual update. Deems a State plan to meet the necessary requirements if it includes; (1) the goals and program objectives; (2) the assessments of needs determined above; (3) the types of individuals to be served and the estimated enrollment of each program; (4) procedures to assure the proper distribution of funds as authorized by such Act; (5) a description of the program's administrative structure; (6) procedures for monitoring the local educational agencies; (7) procedures that the State will use to insure that any local educational agency receiving funds under such Act will annually develop or update a comprehensive plan for the use of such funds; (8) procedures for auditing local educational agency expenditures under such Act; (9) Minimum expenditures of funds from non-Federal sources; (10) procedures to assure that funds made available under such Act supplement and not supplant State and local funds; (11) due process procedures, including withholding of funds, available to a State against a local educational agency which has failed to implement a comprehensive program plan; and (12) an appeal process within the State for a local educational agency dissatisfied with such State's compliance with such Act. Provides for an annual evaluation of a State's program by the Commissioner. Authorizes the Commissioner to conduct annual monitoring programs of States' programs, and to establish procedures to rectify areas of noncompliance. Directs the Commissioner to provide technical assistance upon request of State and local educational agencies. Directs the Commissioner to issue grants to participating States for interstate programs of educational research and planning, and common administrative problems. Authorizes appropriations of $3,000,000 for each of the fiscal years ending prior to October 1, 1982, to carry out such provision. Directs that the consolidation program authorized by this Act be administered by a separate Federal administrative unit to be established within 60 days after enactment of this Act. Provides the Commissioner with certain enforcement procedures against participating States, and provides such States with judicial recourse against such action. Authorizes the use of funds paid to a State under this Act for construction purposes where such construction funds would have been available under a program consolidated under this Act. Subjects funds made available under this Act to certain civil rights requirements. Provides the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare with certain enforcement procedures against local educational agencies not in compliance with such requirements. Provides for the participation of eligible children in private nonprofit elementary and secondary schools and Indian tribal schools in the programs authorized under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 24 June 1977
International Navigational Rules Act - Authorizes the President to proclaim the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea. Exempts from the regulation vessels in harbors, rivers, and inland waters, the Great Lakes, or the Red River. Authorizes the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to promulgate regulations to implement this Act. Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy and the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to promulgate rules for certain navigational signals. Imposes civil penalties for violation of such regulations.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1977
Rail Passenger Service Authorization Act - Amends the Rail Passenger Service Act to extend the authorization for appropriations for the National Railroad Passenger Corporation.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1977
National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety and Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Authorizations - Title I: Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety - Amends the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1979 in such amounts as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of such Act. Title II: Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings - Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1979 in such amounts as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1977
Waives certain requirements of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 with respect to the consideration of S. 1522 (Marine mammal protection authorizations).
United States · United States Congress · 17 June 1977
Rehabilitation Extension Amendments - Amends the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to set the authorization for appropriations for State grants for vocational rehabilitation services at the previous year's authorization adjusted by fluctuations in the Consumer Price Index. Extends through fiscal year 1983 the authorization for appropriations for the following purposes: (1) innovation and expansion grants, (2) vocational rehabilitation personnel training, (3) construction and staffing of rehabilitation facilities, (4) the study of comprehensive service needs, (5) vocational rehabilitation service grants, (6) special projects and demonstrations, (7) the National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults, (8) program evaluations, and (9) the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board.
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 1977
Amends the Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971 to extend the authorization for appropriations for financial assistance to State boating safety programs through fiscal year 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 14 June 1977
Antarctic Conservation Act - Declares it the purpose of this Act to implement the Antarctic Treaty, and the Agreed Measures for the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora. Stipulates that the taking of any native animal, collection of any native plant, introduction of any non-indigenous plant, entrance with certain restricted areas, or discharge of oil or hazardous substances into adjacent waters and ice shelves shall be unlawful in Antarctica. Sets forth import-export restrictions on animals and plants taken in violation of this Act. Authorizes the Director of the National Science Foundation to issue permits for any act in Antarctica otherwise prohibited by this Act. Requires the Director, in consultation with the Secretary of State and other Federal officials, to promulgate such regulations as are necessary to implement this Act. Requires all persons participating in expeditions proceeding to Antarctica from the United States to notify the Secretary of State of the purpose and itinerary of such expedition. Requires the Director to notify such persons of any risks to the safety of persons and property in Antarctica which might occur during the period of the expedition. Sets forth the civil and criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Authorizes such appropriations as are necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 May 1977
Ocean Pollution Research Program Act - Directs the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to prepare a comprehensive annual plan for ocean pollution research and monitoring to be submitted to Congress and the President. Establishes procedures for interagency coordination of existing ocean-related programs. Authorizes the Administrator to provide financial assistance in the form of grants and contracts for additional ocean research and monitoring activities. Directs the Administrator to submit an annual report of activities under this Act to Congress and the President. Authorizes the appropriation of the following sums to the Administrator to carry out this Act, $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and $6,000,000 for fiscal year 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 1977
International Safe Container Act - Requires that all containers used in international transport meet minimum safety standards and other requirements as prescribed by the International Convention for Safe Containers. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to prescribe regulations regarding (1) procedures to revoke approval and to invalidate safety approval plates on containers which no longer meet the requirements of the Convention or this Act; (2) fees to be charged for services associated with the approval and examination of containers; (3) initial approval of containers or container designs to meet the safety standards of the Convention; (4) the authorizing and attaching of safety approval plates; and (5) periodic examinations of approved containers to assure continued compliance with Convention safety standards. Authorizes the Secretary to issue detention orders for containers not having valid safety approval plates. Establishes civil penalties for moving containers in violation of a detention order. Prohibits discrimination against employees who have reported the existence of an unsafe container or who have reported violations of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary of State, in conjunction with the Secretary of Transportation, to propose amendments to the Convention or to request a conference to amend the Convention. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, to modify the application of this Act with respect to cargoes of military significance moving in response to an emergency situation in container aboard transportation assets owned by, controlled by, or under contract to the United States Government. Authorizes appropriations in such amounts as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that State and local government retirement systems shall be tax exempt organizations. Exempts those systems from the reporting requirements pertaining to deferred compensation.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1977
Protection of Children Against Sexual Exploitation Act - Prohibits the sexual exploitation of children by making it unlawful for any person to knowingly use or cause any minor to engage in or assist in any sexual act for the purpose of promoting any film, photograph or other visual medium. Makes it unlawful for any parent, guardian or person having control over a minor to knowingly permit such minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct. Imposes a fine of $10,000 and/or imprisonment up to ten years for a violation of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1977
Grants a Federal charter to the National Ski Patrol System, Incorporated. Declares that the purpose of such corporation is to promote public safety in skiing.
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1977
Amends the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 to allow the incidental taking of certain marine mammals in commercial fishing, and the issuance of permits therefor subject to specified regulations. Restricts the number of eastern stock spinner dolphin and whitebelly spinner dolphin which may be taken, injured, or pursued during calendar year 1977. Requires that the incidental mortality and service injury of marine mammals be progressively reduced to insignificant levels approaching zero by the establishment of annual quota for affected species. Limits the total incidental mortality and serious injury authorized for calendar year 1980 and thereafter. Sets forth the procedure by which the holder of or a applicant for a permit to take marine mammals may petition for extraordinary relief to increase quota limitations. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to ban the importation of commercial fish and products from fish which have been caught with commercial fishing technology which results in the incidental taking or injury of ocean mammals in excess of United States standards. Authorizes the placement of an authorized Federal agent aboard vessels which the Secretary of the department in which the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is operating has reasonable cause to believe will engage in the incidental taking of marine mammals. Permits the Secretary to pay the cost of quartering and maintaining such agents. Authorizes the Secretary to place observers aboard foreign commercial fishing vessels to monitor compliance with United States standards. Requires that certain commercial fishing vessels authorized to take marine mammals incidental to commercial tuna fishing be accompanied by authorized agents of the Secretary until December 31, 1978. Directs the Secretary to establish fees for permits to take marine mammals. Requires certain vessels, seeking approval of the Secretary of Commerce with respect to registration as vessels of the United States, or seeking approval to transfer shipping facilities during national emergency, to agree to comply with United States standards for incidental killing and serious injuring of marine mammals. Directs the Secretary of the department in which the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is operating and the Secretary of State to negotiate with certain foreign governments and within the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission to effect compliance with this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1977
Interim Regulatory Reform Act - Civil Aeronautics Board - Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to direct the Chairman of the Civil Aeronautics Board to submit to the Congress a proposal setting forth a recodification of all the rules which the Board has issued and which are presently in effect or proposed. Requires the Board to submit with each recodification proposal economic, paperwork, and judicial impact analyses of the probable consequences of each rule proposed to be recodified. Requires that each recodification proposal be published in the Federal Register. Requires the Board to either grant or deny petitions from persons for the commencement of proceedings for the issuance, amendment, or repeal of any order, rule, or regulation under the jurisdiction of the Board within 120 days after the receipt of such petition. Stipulates that if such a petition is denied or no action is taken on such petition within the 120 day period the Board shall publish in the Federal Register its reasons for such denial or inaction. States that if the Board fails to act or denies a petition the petitioner may commence a civil action in an appropriate United States Court of Appeals for an order directing the Board to institute proceedings regarding such petition. Sets forth standards for the Court to follow regarding such civil actions. Requires the Board, when submitting any budget estimates, requests, or information or any legislative recommendations testimony or comments on legislation to the President or the Office of Management and Budget, to transmit a copy to the Congress. Directs the Board, whenever a duly authorized committee of the Congress which has responsibility for the authorization of appropriations for the Board makes a written request for documents in the possession or subject to the control of the Board, to submit such documents to the Committee. Requires the Board to notify such committee if the documents cannot be made available during such period. Stipulates that in the event the documents are not in the possession of the Board, the Board shall notify such committee as to why it does not have such documents and inform the Committee of where the documents might be located. Authorizes the Board to commence, defend, or intervene in civil actions within its jurisdiction in its own name if prior to such action the Board has notified the Attorney General fails to commence, defend, or intervene in such action within 45 days after such notification. Prohibits any Board member from engaging in any other business, vocation, or employment while serving as a Board member. Prohibits members or employees of the Board at a GS-15 level or above from representing any person in a professional capacity in matters before the Board for a period of two years after the termination of service with the Commission. States that the appointment of the Chairman of the Board by the President requires the confirmation of the Senate.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1977
Toxic Substances Control Act Amendments - Title I: Toxic Substances Injury Assistance - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to authorize the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to make grants to States for up to 75 percent of the amounts paid by such States in toxic substances injury assistance to qualified individuals and business. Stipulates that priority shall be given in granting assistance to actions principally involving polybrominated biphenyls. Imposes conditions upon applicants for assistance under this title. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States for the establishment and operation of medical programs designed to monitor adverse effects of chemical substances. Authorizes the Administrator to make payments to individuals for actual medical expenses incurred as a result of exposure to injurous chemical substances. Authorizes the appropriation of $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1977, 1978, and 1979, to the Administrator for grants and payments under this title. Title II: Chemical Emergency Response Team - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish and maintain a Chemical Emergency Response Team within the Agency. Requires that the team be able to respond rapidly to situations where significant threats to health as the environment are posed by chemical substances. Directs the Administrator to develop a contingency plans detailing procedures to be utilized in prevention or mitigation of unreasonable risks posed by chemical substances. Establishes additional procedures governing the operation of the response team. Authorizes appropriations for such purposes for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States for the development of State contingency plans to prevent or reduce risks posed by chemical substance emergency situations. Details elements to be included in State contingency plans. Increases the amount authorized for grants to State programs under the Act from $1,500,000 to $4,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1978 and 1979. Title III: Authorization for Appropriations - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to increase the amounts authorized to be appropriated to the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency under such Act to $50,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 and $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1977
Interim Regulatory Reform Act - Federal Trade Commission and Consumer Product Safety Commission. Title I: Federal Trade Commission - Amends the Federal Trade Commission Act to direct the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission to submit to the Congress a proposal setting forth a recodification of all the rules which the Commission has issued and which are presently in effect or proposed. Requires the Commission to submit with each recodification proposal economic, paperwork, and judicial impact analyses of the probable consequences of each rule proposed to be recodified. Requires that each recodification proposal be published in the Federal Register. Requires the Commission to either grant or deny petitions from persons for the commencement of proceedings for the issuance, amendment, or repeal of any order, rule, or regulation under the jurisdiction of the Commission within 120 days after the receipt of such petition. Stipulates that if such a petition is denied or no action is taken on such petition within the 120 day period the Commission shall publish in the Federal Register its reasons for such denial or inaction. States that if the Commission fails to act or denies a petition the petitioner may commence a civil action in an appropriate United States Court of Appeals for an order directing the Commission to institute proceedings regarding such petition. Sets forth standards for the Court to follow regarding such civil actions. Requires the Commission, when submitting any budget estimates, requests, or information or any legislative recommendations testimony or comments on legislation to the President or the Office of Management and Budget, to transmit a copy to the Congress. Directs the Commission, whenever a duly authorized committee of the Congress which has responsibility for the authorization of appropriations for the Commission makes a written request for documents in the possession or subject to the control of the Commission to submit such documents to the Committee. Requires the Commission to notify such committee if the documents cannot be made available during such period. Stipulates that in the event the documents are not in the possession of the Commission, the Commission shall notify such committee as to why it does not have such documents and inform the Committee of where the documents might be located. Prohibits any Commissioner from engaging in any other business, vocation, or employment while serving as a Commissioner. Prohibits Commissioners or employees of the Commission at a GS-15 level or above from representing any person in a professional capacity in matters before the Commission for a period of two years after the termination of service with the Commission. States that the appointment of the Chairman of the Commission by the President requires the confirmation of the Senate. Title II: Consumer Product Safety Commission - Amends the Consumer Product Safety Commission Act to direct the Chairman of the Consumer Product Safety Commission to submit to the Congress a proposal setting forth a recodification of all the rules which the Commission has issued and which are presently in effect or proposed. Requires the Commission to submit with each recodification proposal economic, paperwork, and judicial impact analyses of the probable consequences of each rule proposed to be recodified. Requires that each recodification proposal be published in the Federal Register. Requires the Commission when submitting any budget estimates, request or information or any legislative recommendations, testimony or comments on legislation to the President or the Office of Management and Budget to transmit a copy to the Congress. Directs the Commission, whenever a duly authorized committee of the Congress which has responsibility for the authorization of appropriations for the Commission makes a written request for documents in the possession or subject to the control of the Commission, to submit such documents to the Committee. Requires the Commission to notify such committee if the documents cannot be made available during such period. Stipulates that, in the event the documents are not in the possession of the Commission, the Commission shall notify such committee as to why it does not have such documents and inform them of where such documents might be located. Prohibits any Commissioner from engaging in any other business, vocation, or employment while serving as a Commissioner. Prohibits Commissioners or employees of the Commission at a GS-15 level or above from representing any person in a professional capacity in matters before the Commission for a period of two years after the termination of service with the Commission. States that the Chairman of the Commission shall be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1977
Amends the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 to: (1) authorize appropriations for marine mammal research grants for fiscal year 1978; (2) increase the appropriations authorized for fiscal year 1977, and authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1978 to enable the Department of Commerce to carry out its functions under the Act; (3) authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1978 to enable the Department of the Interior to carry out its functions under the Act; (4) authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1978 for the operation of the Marine Mammal Commission; and (5) make unlawful the taking of whales in the fishery conservation zone of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1977
Interim Regulatory Reform Act - Federal Maritime Commission - Amends the Reorganization Plan Numbered 7 of 1961 to direct the Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission to submit to the Congress a proposal setting forth a recodification of all the rules which the Commission has issued and which are presently in effect or proposed. Requires the Commission to submit with each recodification proposal economic, paperwork, and judicial impact analyses of the probable consequences of each rule proposed to be recodified. Requires that each recodification proposal be published in the Federal Register. Requires the Commission to either grant or deny petitions from persons for the commencement of proceedings for the issuance, amendment, or repeal of any order, rule, or regulation under the jurisdiction of the Commission within 120 days after the receipt of such petition. Stipulates that if such a petition is denied or no action is taken on such petition within the 120-day period the Commission shall publish in the Federal Register its reasons for such denial or inaction. States that if the Commission fails to act or denies a petition the petitioner may commence a civil action in an appropriate United States Court of Appeals for an order directing the Commission to institute proceedings regarding such petition. Sets forth standards for the Court to follow regarding such civil actions. Requires the Commission, when submitting any budget estimates, requests, or information or any legislative recommendations, testimony or comments on legislation to the President or the Office of Management and Budget, to transmit a copy to the Congress. Directs the Commission whenever a duly authorized committee of the Congress which has responsibility for the authorization of appropriations for the Commission makes a written request for documents in the possession or subject to the control of the Commission to submit such documents to the Committee. Requires the Commission to notify such committee if the documents cannot be made available during such period. Stipulates that, in the event the documents are not in the possession of the Commission, the Commission shall notify such committee as to why it does not have such documents and inform them of where the documents might be located. Authorizes the Commission to commence, defend, or intervene in civil action within its jurisdiction in its own name if prior to such action the Commission has notified the Attorney General of such action and the Attorney General fails to commence, defend, or intervene in such action within 45 days after such notification. Prohibits any Commissioner from engaging in any other business, vocation, or employment while serving as a Commissioner. Prohibits Commissioners or employees of the Commission at a GS-15 level or above from representing any person in a professional capacity in matters before the Commission for a period of two years after the termination of service with the Commission. States that the appointment of the Chairman of the Commission by the President requires the confirmation of the Senate.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1977
Interim Regulatory Reform Act - Federal Power Commission Improvement - Amends the Federal Power Act to direct the Chairman of the Federal Power Commission to submit to the Congress a proposal setting forth a recodification of all the rules which the Commission has issued and which are presently in effect or proposed. Requires the Commission to submit along with each recodification proposal economic, paperwork, and judicial impact analyses of the probable consequences of each rule proposed to be recodified. Requires that each recodification proposal be published in the Federal Register. Requires the Commission to either grant or deny petitions from persons for the commencement of proceedings for the issuance, amendment, or repeal of any order, rule, or regulation under the jurisdiction of the Commission within 120 days after the receipt of such petition. Stipulates that if such a petition is denied or no action is taken on such petition within the 120 day period the Commission shall publish in the Federal Register its reasons for such denial or inaction. States that if the Commission fails to act or denies a petition the petitioner may commence a civil action in an appropriate United States Court of Appeals for an order directing the Commission to institute proceedings regarding such petition. Sets forth standards for the Court to follow regarding such civil actions. Requires the Commission, when submitting any budget estimates, requests, or information or any legislative recommendations testimony or comments on legislation to the President or the Office of Management and Budget, to transmit a copy to the Congress. Directs the Commission, whenever a duly authorized committee of the Congress which has responsibility for the authorization of appropriations for the Commission makes a written request for documents in the possession or subject to the control of the Commission, to submit such documents to the Committee. Requires the Commission to notify such committee if the documents cannot be made available during such period. Stipulates that in the event the documents are not in the possession of the Commission, the Commission shall notify such committee as to why it does not have such documents and inform the Committee of where the documents might be located. Authorizes the Commission to commence, defend, or intervene in civil actions within its jurisdiction in its own name if prior to such action the Commission has notified the Attorney General fails to commence, defend, or intervene in such action within 45 days after such notification. Prohibits any Commission member from engaging in any other business, vocation, or employment while serving as a Commission member. Prohibits members or employees of the Commission at a GS-15 level or above from representing any person in a professional capacity in matters before the Commission for a period of two years after the termination of service with the Commission. States that the appointment of the Chairman of the Commission by the President requires the confirmation of the Senate.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1977
Interim Regulatory Reform Act - Federal Communications Commission - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to direct the Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission to submit to the Congress a proposal setting forth a recodification of all the rules which the Commission has issued and which are presently in effect or proposed. Requires the Commission to submit with each recodification proposal economic, paperwork, and judicial impact analyses of the probable consequences of each rule proposed to be recodified. Requires that each recodification proposal be published in the Federal Register. Requires the Commission to either grant or deny petitions from persons for the commencement of proceedings for the issuance, amendment, or repeal of any order, rule, or regulation under the jurisdiction of the Commission within 120 days after the receipt of such petition. Stipulates that if such a petition is denied or no action is taken on such petition within the 120 day period the Commission shall publish in the Federal Register its reasons for such denial or inaction. States that if the Commission fails to act or denies a petition the petitioner may commence a civil action in an appropriate United States Court of Appeals for an order directing the Commission to institute proceedings regarding such petition. Sets forth standards for the Court to follow regarding such civil actions. Requires the Commission, when submitting any budget estimates, requests, or information or any legislative recommendations, testimony or comments on legislation to the President or the Office of Management and Budget, to transmit a copy to the Congress. Directs the Commission, whenever a duly authorized committee of the Congress which has responsibility for the authorization of appropriations for the Commission makes a written request for documents in the possession or subject to the control of the Commission, to submit such documents to the Committee. Requires the Commission to notify such committee if the documents cannot be made available during such period. Stipulates that, in the event the documents are not in the possession of the Commission, the Commission shall notify such committee as to why it does not have such documents and inform the Committee of where the documents might be located. Authorizes the Commission to commence, defend, or intervene in civil action within its jurisdiction in its own name if prior to such action the Commission has notified the Attorney General of such action and the Attorney General fails to commence, defend, or intervene in such action within 45 days after such notification. Prohibits any Commissioner from engaging in any other business, vocation, or employment while serving as a Commissioner. Prohibits Commissioners or employees of the Commission at a GS-15 level or above from representing any person in a professional capacity in matters before the Commission for a period of two years after the termination of service with the Commission. States that the appointment of the Chairman of the Commission by the President requires the confirmation of the Senate.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1977
Interim Regulatory Reform Act - Interstate Commerce Commission - Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to direct the Chairman of the Interstate Commerce Commission to submit to the Congress a proposal setting forth a recodification of all the rules which the Commission has issued and which are presently in effect or proposed. Requires the Commission to submit with each recodification proposal economic, paperwork, and judicial impact analyses of the probable consequences of each rule proposed to be recodified. Requires that each recodification proposal be published in the Federal Register. Requires the Commission when submitting any budget estimates, requests or information or any legislative recommendations, testimony or comments on legislation to the President or the Office of Management and Budget to transmit a copy to the Congress. Directs the Commission whenever a duly authorized committee of the Congress which has responsibility for the authorization of appropriations for the Commission makes a written request for documents in the possession or subject to the control of the Commission, to submit such documents to the Committee. Requires the Commission to notify such committee if the documents cannot be made available during such period. Stipulates that, in the event the documents are not in the possession of the Commission, the Commission shall notify such committee as to why it does not such documents and inform the Committee of where the documents might be located. Authorizes the Commission to commence, defend, or intervene in civil actions within its jurisdiction in its own name if prior to such action the Commission has notified the Attorney General of such action and the Attorney General fails to commence, defend, or intervene in such action within 45 days after such notification. Authorizes the Commission to represent itself in its own name in specified civil suits and before the Supreme Court in the absence of a disapproval by the Attorney General. Reduces the membership of the Commission from eleven to seven. Prohibits any Commissioner from engaging in any other business, vocation, profession, or employment while serving as a Commissioner. Prohibits Commissioners or persons employed by the Commission at a GS-15 level or above from representing any person in a professional capacity in matters before the Commission for a period of the years after the termination of such service with the Commission. States that the appointment of the Chairman requires the confirmation of the Senate.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1977
Coal Transportation Act - Amends the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920 to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to grant rights-of-way on Federal lands for coal pipelines. Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to make coal pipelines operating in interstate commerce subject to regulation under such Act. Stipulates that charges for the transportation of coal by pipeline based on long-term commitments are presumptively unlawful unless finally approved by the Commission for use by common carriers by railroad. Prohibits coal pipelines from transporting coal in interstate commerce where such pipeline has an interest in such coal. Requires the construction and maintenance of feeder or distribution lines by coal pipeline carriers. Prohibits abandonment of existing pipelines without certification by the Interstate Commerce Commission. Establishes procedures governing issuance of such certificates. Imposes civil penalties for illegal abandonment of existing pipelines. Establishes procedures governing the granting of easements to coal pipeline carriers by the Commission in accordance with prescribed criteria. Requires that Commission approval be obtained prior to transfers, mergers, and acquisitions involving coal pipeline carriers. Lists criteria to be considered by the Commission in evaluating such proposed transactions. Prohibits the Commission from issuing certificates of public convenience and necessity to coal pipeline carriers without receiving the advice of the Attorney General and the Federal Trade Commission that such action would not contravene antitrust laws. Establishes procedures for enforcement of the requirements of this Act against coal pipeline carriers by the Attorney General upon the report of the Interstate Commerce Commission. Imposes criminal and civil penalties for such violations. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to prescribe regulations to apply the provisions of the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1968 to coal pipelines
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1977
Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to reconsider and act upon the application of a certain individual for disability insurance benefits under the Social Security Act. Deems such individual to have met certain criteria of such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1977
Amends the Railroad Retirement Act of 1974 to include employment with the National Transportation Safety Board among the types of employment which an individual may engage in while retaining a "current connection with the railroad industry" for purposes of such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1977
Amends the Atlantic Tunas Convention Act to: (1) authorize appropriations for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980 to carry out the purposes of the Act; and (2) redefine "fisheries zone" to fix the outer boundary of such zone at a point which is 200 nautical miles from the baseline from which the territorial sea is measured.
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1977
Amends the Commercial Fisheries Research and Development Act of 1964 to authorize the appropriation of funds to the Secretary of Commerce for apportionment to the States for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980 to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1977
Authorizes an additional Assistant Secretary of Commerce to be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. (Amends 5 U.S.C. 5315)
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1977
Amends the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act to authorize appropriations to carry out the ocean dumping permit program for fiscal years 1978 and 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1977
Child Health Assessment Act - Amends Title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require State plans for the administration of such Title to include a provision for the early periodic screening of physical and mental defects in children under the age of six who are members of families eligible for Aid to Families with Dependent Children. Establishes a Child Health Assessment Program under Medicaid. Requires State Medicaid plans to include the provision of child health assessments and primary care to specified individuals under the age of 21. Directs that child health assessments be provided only by a health care provider who enters into an agreement with the State agency responsible for the administration of the Medicaid plan to: (1) provide to specified individuals periodic health assessments; (2) provide a minimum range of diagnostic and treatment services; (3) be readily accessible on an ongoing basis; and (4) make required reports to the State to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. Allows an individual who has received a health assessment to remain eligible for all care and services provided under the State plan for six months after such individual's family has become ineligible for Medicaid or Aid to Families with Dependent Children. Requires State medicaid plans to provide that the State will encourage participation by physicians and health care centers in the child assessment program and that the State will assure the physicians and health care centers of the availability of appropriate support services. Provides for the funding of the program out of the sums appropriated for State medicaid programs. Allows the Secretary to reduce, by 20 percent, a State's Medicaid funds if the State does not comply with standards promulgated for the Child Health Assessment Program. Allows the Secretary to make additional payments to States that have met the criteria for good performance of the State's Child Health Assessment Program. Sets forth the criteria for determining good performance under such program. Repeals previous provision of the Social Security Act relating to appropriations for Child Health Care Assessment programs.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1977
Declares it the sense of the Senate that the President discuss with Canada the impact of recent provisions of the Canadian tax code on the United States broadcasting industry.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1977
Authorizes the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation to make expenditures, not to exceed $1,987,831, for hearings and investigations from the contingent fund of the Senate.
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 1977
Standards for No-Fault Motor Vehicle Accident Benefits Act - Title I: Standards for State No-Fault Benefits - Authorizes any State to establish a plan for no-fault benefits for motor vehicle accident victims in accordance with the basic standards set forth in this Act. Specifies levels for medical expense, work loss, replacement services loss, and funeral and death benefits which must be met by approved State plans. Sets forth limitations on deductibles. Requires each person obligated to provide compulsory coverage to carry liability insurance for the payment of tort liability damages for injury in any case in which loss is in excess of the approved limitations, and in other specified cases. Permits any State with an approved plan to authorize its insurance commissioner to lower the level of benefits provided by the plan if necessary to assure that the average cost of premiums for compulsory coverage is not greater than the average cost of premiums for equivalent coverage. Stipulates that an approved State plan must require each insurer to make available coverages to provide for specified benefits in excess of any limitations under this Act. Requires any State plan to prohibit any claimant from maintaining a civil action in tort against any person, with respect to an injury as to which no-fault benefits are payable, unless such person is or may be liable in tort in accordance with specified exceptions set forth in this Act and also in such plan. Permits any approved State plan to establish a mechanism to assess the individual responsibility of motor vehicle operators, and a procedure for the imposition of tort penalties for such individual. Stipulates that any such plan shall require each owner of a motor vehicle registered in such State to maintain compulsory coverage in accordance with the approved plan. Requires each owner of a motor vehicle operated in such State to maintain compulsory coverage while the vehicle is operated in such State if coverage is not provided under any other approved no-fault plan. Declares that any approved State plan shall entitle any victim, any survivor of a victim, or provider on behalf of a victim to basic no-fault benefits under such plan depending on specified conditions relating to residence and place of injury of the victim. Sets forth priorities for the determination of which insurer will pay benefits if two or more obligations to pay no-fault benefits apply to an injury. Establishes a procedure for the payment of no-fault benefits. Requires any approved State plan to authorize a claimant to maintain a civil action against an insurer or program for the payment of overdue benefits and any interest penalty. Requires such plan to include the payment of attorney's fees and costs of litigation within the recovery available to claimants in such actions. Directs the State insurance commissioner to establish a program to assure that basic no-fault benefits are available, with respect to any victim who is entitled to such benefits under the approved plan of such State, in any case in which no other obligation to pay such benefits applies to the victim, or the insurer obligated to pay is financially unable to meet the obligation. Requires each insurer providing compulsory coverage in a State to accept any case assigned to it by the insurance commissioner under such program. Sets forth conflict of law resolutions which must be included in each approved State plan with respect to the determination of benefits, the right to maintain civil actions in tort reimbursement, and compliance with compulsory coverage requirements. Requires that any approved State plan restrict the cancellation, nonrenewal, and modification of insurance in accordance with this Act. Requires that such plans include programs for the medical and vocational rehabilitation of victims. Directs that all benefits that an individual receives, or is entitled to receive, with respect to an injury, from specified government programs be subtracted in calculating basic no-fault benefits. Restricts the right of reimbursement of insurers for certain no-fault benefits paid or obligated. Declares certain individuals ineligible for no-fault benefits under any State approved plan. Sets forth the procedure for calculating work loss. Title II: Review Panel and Process; Alternative No-Fault Plan - Establishes within the Department of Transportation the Standards for No-Fault Benefits Review Panel to evaluate the performance and effect of approved State plans. Sets forth the procedure for certification and review of State plans. Specifies the requirements which must be met by alternative no-fault plans. Declares that an alternative no-fault plan may take effect in a State only if the Review Panel issues a declaration that such State does not have an approved State plan. Title III: Definitions and Miscellaneous Provisions - Stipulates that no district court of the United States shall have jurisdiction over any civil action for the payment of no-fault benefits unless the United States is a party.
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1977
Amends the National Sea Grant Program Act to extend the authorization for appropriations of such program to fiscal years 1978 and 1979. Amends the Sea Grant Program Improvement Act to extend, for two years, the authorization for appropriations for the national needs category of sea grants activity and the program to encourage international cooperation and exchanges in marine technology transfer and resource development.
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1977
National Advisory Committee on Oceans and Atmosphere Act - Establishes a National Advisory Committee on Oceans and Atmosphere to conduct a continuing review of national ocean and marine policy and coastal zone management programs and to advise the Secretary of Commerce with respect to administration of the programs of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Directs the Committee to submit an annual report on the status of national marine and atmospheric activities to Congress and the President. Authorizes the appropriation of $445,000 for fiscal year 1978 to carry out the provision of this Act. Stipulates that such advisory committee shall replace an advisory committee with similar functions and duties established in 1971.
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1977
Authorizes the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers to undertake the design memorandum phase of the navigation improvement project of Grays Harbor, Chehalis River and Hoquiam River, Washington.
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1977
Chemical Emergency Response Team Act - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish and maintain a Chemical Emergency Response Team within the Agency. Requires that the team be able to respond rapidly to situations where significant threats to health as the environment are posed by chemical substances. Directs the Administrator to develop a contingency plan detailing procedures to be utilized in prevention or mitigation of unreasonable risks posed by chemical substances. Establishes additional procedures governing the operation of the response team. Authorizes appropriations for such purposes for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States for the development of State contingency plans to prevent or reduce risks posed by chemical substance emergency situations. Details to be included in State contingency plans.
United States · United States Congress · 20 April 1977
Amends the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 to direct the Consolidated Rail Corporation (Con Rail) to make premium payments in order to maintain insurance policies providing medical or life insurance benefits to employees and retirees under such Act. Entitles the corporation to a loan under such Act to make such payments. Deems such costs to be expenses of the administration of the respective estates of the railroads in reorganization.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Consumer Protection Act - Establishes as an independent agency in the executive branch the Agency for Consumer Advocacy. Directs the Administrator of the Agency to submit an annual report to the Congress and the President on the Agency's activities and court actions affecting the interests of consumers. Directs the Agency to advise the Congress and the President on matters affecting the interests of consumers and to protect and promote the interests of the people of the United States as consumers of goods and services. Enumerates the functions of the Administrator including the following: (1) the representation of the interests of consumers before Federal agencies and courts; (2) the conduct and support of research, studies, and testing; (3) the submission of recommendations annually to the Congress and the President on measures to improve the operation of the Federal Government in the protection and promotion of the interests of consumers; and (4) the publication of material developed in carrying out this Act to inform consumers of matters of interest to them. States that whenever the Administrator determines that the result of any Federal agency proceeding may substantially affect an interest of consumers, he may as of right intervene as a party or otherwise participate for the purpose of representing an interest of consumers. Provides that whenever the Administrator receives any complaint which discloses: (1) an apparent violation of law relating to an interest of consumers; or (2) a commercial, trade, or other practice which is detrimental to an interest of consumers, he shall transmit such complaint to any Federal, State, of local agency which has the authority to enforce any relevant law or to take appropriate action. Directs the Administrator to maintain a public document room containing, for public inspection and copying, an up-to-date listing of all consumer complaints of any significance which the Agency has received, as arranged in meaningful and useful categories, together with annotations of actions taken in response thereto. Authorizes the Administrator to conduct studies, and to obtain data and information from persons engaged in a trade, business, or industry which substantially affects interstate commerce and whose activities he determines may substantially affect an interest of consumers. Stipulates that the Administrator shall not have the power to require the production or disclosure of any data or other information under this Act from any small business. Authorizes and directs each Federal agency, upon written request by the Administrator, to furnish access to all documents which the Administrator deems necessary for the performance of his functions. Sets forth limitations on the disclosure of any information obtained pursuant to any authority conferred by this Act. Prohibits sex discrimination in any program or activity carried on or receiving Federal assistance under the Act. Directs the President to submit to Congress a reorganization plan which provides for the transfer to the Agency of those consumer-related programs of Federal agencies which can be performed with greater efficiency by the Administrator under the authority contained in this Act. Requires Federal agencies to issue standards governing public participation in agency proceedings. Requires each Federal agency, which is authorized to promulgate rules, to transmit to the Comptroller General a cost-benefit assessment statement with respect to any rules which are likely to have a substantial economic impact. Requires the President to issue regulations providing guidelines for Federal agencies as to the nature and content of such cost and benefit assessment statements. Sets forth the procedure by which such regulations shall become law.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Authorizes appropriations for the Coast Guard for fiscal years 1978 and 1979. Sets forth the authorized end strength for active duty personnel and prescribes the average military student loads for the Coast Guard for such years. Stipulates that the obligated balances against appropriations for use by the Coast Guard for operation and maintenance and Reserve training purposes for the two preceeding fiscal years shall be merged with the current appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Provides for the designation of the library of any nationally accredited law school as a depository library upon request of such law school. (Adds 44 U.S.C. 1916)
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Social Security Cost-of-Living Improvement Act - Requires an annual cost-of-living increase in Federal old-age, survivors, and disability benefits under the Social Security Act. Defines the base periods from which the need for such increases shall be determined. Directs the Secretary of Labor, in consultation with the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, to develop a special Consumer Price Index for the elderly.
United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1977
Social Security Administration Act - Title I: Social Security Administration - Amends Title VII (Administration) of the Social Security Act to establish an independent agency of the Executive branch of the Government, a Social Security Administration, headed by a Board appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Declares that it shall be the duty of the Administration to administer the programs established by titles II (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance), XVI (Supplemental Security Income) and XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, and to discharge the duties and responsibilities imposed on the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare in connection with the administration of the program established by title IV of the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969. States that the Administration shall also have the duty of studying and making recommendations as to the most effective methods of providing economic security through social insurance, and as to legislation and matters of administrative policy. Provides for the appointment of an Executive Director and a General Counsel of the Administration. Makes the Administration responsible for administering the old age, survivors, and disability insurance program, medicare, supplemental security income, and the black lung benefit program under the Coal Mine Health and Safety Act. Prohibits the mailing of announcements with Social Security and SSI checks which make reference by name, title, or signature to any officer of the United States. Transfers to the Social Security Administration: (1) all functions carried out by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare with respect to the administration of programs and activities the administration of which is vested in such administration by reason of this Act; and (2) all personnel, assets, liabilities, contracts, property, and records which the Director of the Office of Management and Budget determines to be employed, held or used by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare primarily in connection with the functions, activities, and programs which, by reason of this Act are vested in or become the responsibility of the Administration. Abolishes the position of Commissioner of Social Security. Title II: Miscellaneous and Conforming Amendments - Makes technical and conforming amendments to the Social Security Act, the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act, the Budget and Accounting Act, and the Executive Schedules of the United States Code.
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1977
Interstate Horseracing Act - Expresses the findings of Congress with regard to the significance of the horseracing industry and the effects of off-track betting on that industry. Declares that the policy of Congress is to assure continued revenue flow from horseracing to the States and to protect the horseracing industry. Prohibits the acceptance of a wager, placed or accepted in one state on the outcome of a horserace in another state. Subjects any person violating this Act to a civil action which may be brought by (1) the host racing association, (2) the host State, or (3) any owner of any horse participating in a race which is the subject of an interstate off-track wager. Allows the courts (1) to enjoin further violations of this Act, and (2) to award damages in an amount equal to three times the amount of that portion of the interstate off-track wagers which the host State, the host racing association, and the owners of horses participating in the race would have received if such wagers had been placed at the track where the race was held. States that in the event that a wager accepted in violation of this Act is of a type not accepted at the host track, the damages shall be equal to three times the greater of (1) the maximum takeout permitted for any type of pari-mutuel wager in the host State, or (2) the maximum takeout for any type of pari-mutuel wager in the off-track state. Defines "takeout" as that portion of a wager which is deducted from the pari-mutuel pool and is distributed to persons or entities other than those placing wagers. Grants jurisdiction over an action under this Act to the United States District Court in the host State or State in which the off track wager was alleged to have been made. Grants concurrent jurisdiction to state courts of competent jurisdiction in the host State or off-track State. Prescribes a statute of limitations of three years after the discovery of an alleged violation of this Act. States that this Act shall not apply to any interstate off-track pari-mutuel wager which is accepted by an off-track State pursuant to a contract which (1) is entered into by the off-track State and the host State prior to enactment of this Act, and (2) authorizes the off-track State to accept such wagers with respect to the outcome of a horserace taking place in the host State. Limits this exception to this Act to the termination date of the above contract, or the period extending until April 30, 1983, whichever date occurs first.
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1977
Amends the Fishermen's Protective Act of 1967 to make reimbursement for commercial vessels seized by foreign countries available to commercial fishermen until October 1, 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1977
Authorizes the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Corps of Engineers, to construct a project for navigation on the Blair and Sitcum Waterways, Tacoma Harbor, Washington.
![Official portrait of Sen. Magnuson, Warren G. [D-WA]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/b6bcbf426a6727b130ff10246e7c1bfa_200.jpg)