Skip to content
PoliticalRepoPoliticalRepo

Person

Official portrait of Sen. Matsunaga, Spark M. [D-HI]

Sen. Matsunaga, Spark M. [D-HI]

United States · Official source

Records

3,423 records where Sen. Matsunaga, Spark M. [D-HI] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Law· SS. 1166 (95th)open

A bill for the relief of Maria Elena Jumalon.

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1977

Authorizes classification of a certain individual as a child for purposes of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Bill· SS. 1163 (95th)referred

A bill to amend title 5, United States Code, to improve the basic workweek of firefighting personnel of executive agencies.

United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1977

Sets the basic workweek of Federal firefighters at 336 hours for each period of three consecutive biweekly pay periods until December 31, 1977, at 324 hours per period from such date until December 31, 1978, and the lesser of 324 hours and one and one-half the number of hours determined by the Secretary of Labor to be the average number of hours in tours of duty in work periods of the preceding year of persons employed by public agencies as firefighters and law enforcement personnel.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 124 (95th)referred

A resolution relating to negotiations for a comprehensive Test Ban Treaty ending all explosions.

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1977

Declares it the sense of the Senate that the President of the United States (1) should propose an immediate suspension of underground nuclear explosions to remain in effect so long as the Soviet Union abstains from conducting underground explosions, and (2) should set forth promptly a new proposal to the Government of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics and other nations for a permanent treaty to ban all nuclear explosions.

Law· SS. 1110 (95th)open

A bill for the relief of Juanita Binabise.

United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1977

Authorizes classification of a certain individual as a child for purposes of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Bill· SS. 1077 (95th)referred

Essential Maritime Transportation Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1977

Essential Maritime Transportation Act - Directs the Secretary of Commerce, upon request by the Chief executive officer of a non contiguous State or territory which has been affected by an interruption in essential maritime transportation, to take appropriate action to provide such transportation. Authorizes the Secretary, in the case of any interruption of five days or more, to: (1) activate and direct vessels of the national defense reserve fleet to provide such transportation; (2) request any officer, department, or instrumentality of the Federal Government to make available, on a nonreimbursable basis, personnel, services, or facilities for use in providing such transportation; or (3) to commence a civil action in the appropriate Federal court for an order to terminate such interruption. Authorizes Federal courts to grant such an order if such order is necessary to assure the provision of essential maritime transportation and no practicable alternative to such an order is available.

Bill· SS. 1090 (95th)referred

Federal Service Labor-Management Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1977

Federal Service Labor-Management Act - Sets forth a plan for the conduct of labor-management relations in the Federal service. Grants certain employees the right to form, join, and assist any labor organization without fear of penalty or reprisal. Establishes the Federal Labor Relations Authority, responsible for carrying out the purposes of this Act. Empowers and directs the Authority to prevent any person from engaging in conduct violative of this Act. Requires that exclusive recognition be granted to a labor organization which has been selected by a majority of employees in an appropriate unit in an election held in conformity with this Act. Denies recognition to labor organizations under specified circumstances. Authorizes the Authority to certify labor unions as exclusive representatives without an election under certain conditions. Specifies the kinds of employees who may not constitute a unit. Grants labor organizations which have been given exclusive recognition below the agency level national consultation rights, and requires that such organizations be informed of proposed changes in conditions of employment. Stipulates that a labor organization, accorded exclusive recognition, becomes the exclusive representative of all employees in the unit, and requires that such organization represent the interest of all such employees regardless of organization membership. Requires that labor organizations be given the opportunity to be represented at discussions between management and employees concerning personnel policies and practices, and matters affecting general working conditions, and that both parties meet and negotiate in good faith. Stipulates that any policy or regulation which affects conditions of employment of employees of an agency for which a labor organization holds exclusive recognition at the agency level shall be subject to negotiation. Establishes a Federal Personnel Policy Board to consider policies and regulations regarding conditions of employment in specified circumstances, to be comprised of management officials of the agencies and representatives of labor organizations holding exclusive recognition under this Act. Requires agencies to honor written assignments from employees which authorize the deduction from wages of amounts for the payment of regular dues of labor organizations having exclusive recognition, without cost to employees or organizations. Requires each employee in a unit having an exclusive representative, who is not a member of a recognized organization, to pay such organization an amount equal to the fees paid by a member. Defines conduct which will be considered an unfair labor practice for agencies and labor organizations. Authorizes the Authority to prevent such practices. Requires the General Counsel of the Authority to investigate charges of unfair labor practices, and authorizes the General Counsel to issue a complaint against such agency or organization. Requires the Authority to conduct hearings on such complaints and authorizes the subpena of documents and witnesses. Prescribes remedies for violations of this Act. Requires the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, upon request, to provide assistance to agencies and labor organizations in the resolution of negotiation impasses. Establishes within the Authority a Federal Service Impasses Panel which may, upon request, consider any matter which has not been resolved by other means. Authorizes the parties to adopt a procedure for binding arbitration of an impasse when voluntary arrangements have failed. Sets forth standards of conduct for labor organizations. Entitles any employee against whom an adverse action under this title is taken to appeal such action to the Civil Service Commission. Requires that agreements between agencies and organizations having exclusive recognition contain procedures for the settlement of grievances, including questions of arbitrability. Authorizes the filing of an exception with the authority to an arbitrator's award, and specifies the procedures for review by the Authority. Outlines the procedure for judicial review in the United States courts of appeals of the Authority's orders. Authorizes the Authority to petition the appropriate United States district court for temporary relief. Stipulates that labor organizations and their members are subject to specified reporting and disclosure procedures. Authorizes official time to be given to employees, representing an exclusively recognized labor organization, for negotiation of agreements. Requires the Authority to maintain files of its proceedings and copies of agreements and decisions, and to publish its decisions and certain actions taken by the Panel. Requires the Authority, the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, and the Panel to prescribe rules and regulations. Modifies or repeals all laws inconsistent with this Act. Increases the compensation recoverable by employees found to have been affected by an unjustified or unwarranted personnel action. Sets forth the procedures to be followed by an agency in bringing an adverse action against an employee.

Bill· SS. 1072 (95th)open

Universal Voter Registration Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1977

Universal Voter Registration Act - Establishes the positions of Administrator and Assistant Administrator of Voter Registration within the Federal Election Commission. Specifies the duties of the Administrator, including (1) establishing and administering a voter registration program in accordance with this Act; (2) providing for the collection, analysis, and publication of voter registration information in coordination work the Secretary of Commerce; and (3) providing information and technical assistance to State and local officials concerning voter registration. Requires each State and local government to permit any individual who is eligible under applicable State and Federal law to register to vote in any Federal election to register on the date of a Federal election at the appropriate polling place. States that any individual so registering shall, if required by State or local authorities, establish his identity by (1) executing an affidavit containing certain information and (2) submitting either an affidavit executed by a person who is registered to vote at the polling place involved and is present at such polling place with the individual seeking registration or one of any forms of identification approved by the Commission. Directs the Commission to make grants for approved voter registration outreach programs to States which comply with the election day registration requirements of this Act. Conditions the amount of such grants on whether a State has a similar election day registration program in effect with respect to State and local elections. Stipulates that a registration outreach program may include projects relating to registration by mail, registration through the use of mobile units, or bilingual registration, and those projects otherwise designed to improve voter registration methods and procedures. Lists the purposes for which grant funds may be used. Sets forth criminal penalties for any person who knowingly and willfully (1) registers, or attempts to register, to vote under this Act for the purpose of voting more than once in any Federal election; (2) conspires with any person for the purpose of enabling such person to make false registration to vote in a Federal election under this Act or for the purpose of enabling or encouraging any individual to make such false registration to vote in a Federal election; or (3) falsifies any information with respect to the name, residence, or age of such person, or any other information for the purpose of establishing eligibility to register to vote in a Federal election under this Act. Directs the Commission to institute actions to prevent any violation of this Act. Requires Federal courts to expedite consideration of actions involving a violation of, or a constitutional challenge to, any provision of this Act. Prohibits commercial use of any list compiled by a State or local government of individuals registered to vote in a Federal election.

Bill· SS. 1043 (95th)referred

National Aquaculture Organic Act

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1977

National Aquaculture Organic Act - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish a National Aquaculture Development Plan. Requires that such plan (1) identify each aquatic species which can be cultured on a commercial basis (priority aquatic species), and (2) contain a program of aquaculture development for such priority aquatic species. Directs the Secretary to review annually each aquatic species not identified as a priority species and the program established for each priority species. Directs the Secretary to (1) establish and maintain an aquaculture information center, (2) maintain an inventory of public and private aquaculture being carried out in the United States, (3) arrange for the mutual exchange of information relating to aquaculture with foreign nations, (4) submit an annual report to Congress on the implementation of the provisions of this Act, (5) coordinate with the Environmental Protection Agency to investigate the use of aquacultural waste water in carrying out the purposes of this Act, and (6) prescribe regulations necessary to carry out this Act. Establishes the Interagency Committee on Aquaculture comprised of the heads of various Federal agencies to insure that there is a continuing exchange of information relating to the aquacultural programs and projects of the various agencies and to review on a continuing basis the relevant programs and projects of all Federal agencies. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of the Interior, and the Secretary of Agriculture to carry out any function under this Act through grants or contracts. Limits the amount of any grant made available under this Act to one-half of the estimated cost of the project for which the grant was made. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to guarantee obligations issued for the financing of any aquaculture facility within the United States. Stipulates that the aggregate unpaid principal amount of all such guaranteed obligations shall not exceed $100,000,000. Authorizes the Secretary to collect a fee for guaranteed obligations not to exceed one-half of one percent per annum of the outstanding principal balance of the obligation. Sets forth the allowable interest rate, maturity date, and default procedures relating to such loans. Authorizes the Secretary to issue notes or obligations to the Secretary of the Treasury if the monies in the loan fund are insufficient to pay such a loan in the event of default. Establishes within the Treasury a Federal Aquaculture Assistance Fund for the purpose of guaranteeing loans under this Act. Authorizes appropriations to the Secretaries of Commerce, the Interior, and Agriculture to carry out the various provisions of this Act.

Bill· SS. 1021 (95th)passed

Juvenile Justice Amendments

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1977

Juvenile Justice Amendments - Amends administrative provisions of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 to designate the Assistant Administrator, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, of the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration as such Office's chief executive officer, subject to only the general policy direction of the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration. Sets forth provisions relative to the authority of the Assistant Administrator. Increases to ten the number of individuals authorized to be appointed in positions in the Office at levels above GS-15. Revises deadlines for submission of the annual analysis of and annual plan for delinquency programs. Empowers the Assistant Administrator to delegate authority to make regulations. Designates the Director of the Office of Drug Abuse Policy, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, and the Commissioner of the Office of Education as members of the Coordinating Council on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. Reduces from six to four the minimum number of times which the Coordinating Council must meet annually. Requires that at least 7 of the 21 members of the National Advisory Committee for Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention be under age 22 at time of appointment, a minimum of three of whom shall have been under the jurisdiction of the juvenile justice system. Sets the quorum of the Committee at 11 members. Makes mandatory the appointment of a subcommittee to advise the Assistant Administrator on particular functions of the Office. Revises provisions regarding other subcommittees. Authorizes the Advisory Committee to delegate its functions by means of grants and contracts. Empowers the committee to conduct programs to assist public or private citizen groups on juvenile delinquency. Requires that at least one percent of the funds appropriated for purposes of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act be used for the Advisory Committee. Stipulates that formula grants to State and local governments' juvenile justice related activities shall cover 90 percent of the approved cost of any assisted programs or activities. Waives the non-Federal matching share requirement for private nonprofit organizations which are conducting activities pursuant to State or local government contracts or grants. Directs that at least 10 percent of the minimum annual allotment of formula grants to a State be used to assist the State juvenile justice advisory group established pursuant to the State juvenile delinquency plan. Revises guidelines for the composition of such advisory groups and delegates to them certain additional functions. Makes specified amendments in the standards which must be included in a State juvenile justice plan. States that failure to comply within two years with the requirement that juveniles committing noncriminal offenses be placed in shelter facilities rather than in correctional institutions shall result in termination of formula grants and certain other funds unless the Administrator finds substantial compliance and a commitment to achieve full compliance. Eliminates provisions making available the formula grant allotment of a State whose juvenile justice plan fails to comply with mandatory standards due to neglect to public and private agencies for special emphasis programs. Revises present, and specifies additional, purposes for which assistance may be extended under special emphasis prevention and treatment programs. Eliminates the limit on formula funds which may be used by a State to meet the matching share requirement of certain essential Federal juvenile delinquency programs. Authorizes an increase in the Federal share of the cost of juvenile delinquency programs in the case of Indian tribes which lack sufficient funds to meet the local share. Sets forth provisions for the reallocation of excess formula grant funds for special emphasis treatment and prevention programs. Repeals the responsibility of the Administrator of the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration to oversee administration of the National Institute for Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. Directs the Advisory Committee for the National Institute to assist States, local governments, and private organizations in the adoption at State and local levels of Standards for the administration of juvenile justice. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums for fiscal years 1977-82 to carry out certain provisions and programs of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act. Amends the Runaway Youth Act to expand the grant program thereunder to encompass the development of local facilities to meet the needs of all homeless youth. Prohibits a runaway house receiving assistance under such Act from disclosing statistical records profiling the parents and children which it serves to other than specified agencies unless the child involved, as well as his parent, consents. Revises monetary guidelines with respect to which grants and runaway houses are to be given priority. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums for the runaway house grant program for fiscal years 1977-1982.

Bill· SS. 1034 (95th)referred

A bill to provide for a study of the effects of saccharin and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1977

Authorizes to be appropriated funds for the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare to conduct a study of the potential carcinogenic effects of saccharin. Directs the Secretary to submit a report on such study to the President and the Congress not later than 60 days after the study's completion. Prohibits any ban or restriction on saccharin in interstate commerce by the Secretary or any officer in the executive branch of the Federal Government for a period of three years.

Bill· SS. 1030 (95th)referred

A bill to make the film "Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden," produced by the U.S. Information Agency, available for use within the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1977

Directs the Director of the United States Information Agency to make available to the National Archives of the United States a master copy of the film "Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden." Directs the Administrator of General Services to provide copies of the film for public viewing within the United States.

Bill· SS. 1010 (95th)referred

National Consumer Cooperative Bank Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1977

National Consumer Cooperative Bank Act - Title I: National Consumer Cooperative Bank - Establishes the National Consumer Cooperative Bank. States that the Bank shall (1) encourage the development of new and existing cooperatives eligible for its assistance by providing specialized credit and technical assistance; (2) maintain broad-based control of the Bank by its voting stockholders; (3) encourage broad-based ownership, control and active participation by members in eligible cooperatives; (4) assure that the net savings from its operations and the operations of borrowers from the Bank are made available or accounted for to the stockholders or members of the cooperative organization; and (5) assist in improving the quality and availability of goods and service to consumers. Authorizes the creation of no less than four nor more than 12 corporate regional banks. States that the Bank shall have the power to make and service loans, commitments for credit, guarantees, furnish financially related services, technical assistance, and issue obligations. Enumerates additional powers necessary to carry out its powers and duties under this Act. Requires the Bank to hold an annual meeting of stockholders. Permits the Bank to obtain funds through the public or private sale of its bonds, debentures, notes, and other evidences of indebtedness. Authorizes the Bank to make loans to eligible organizations which shall be repayable in not more than 40 years. States that the objective of the Bank shall be to provide the type of credit needed by eligible borrowers, at the lowest reasonable cost on a sound business basis, taking into account the cost of money to the Bank. Defines "eligible cooperatives" for purposes of assistance under this title. Title II: Self-Help Development Fund - Establishes in the Treasury a Consumer Cooperative Self-Help Development Fund. Permits the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration to make a capital investment advance out of the Fund to any eligible cooperative if the Administration determines that the applicants' initial or supplemental capital requirements exceed its ability to obtain a Title I Loan from the Bank or other sources, and the membership of the applicant consists substantially of low-income persons. Title III: Cooperative Technical Assistance - Directs the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration to make available information and services concerning the organization or reorganization of cooperatives to best achieve the objectives of this Act and to best provide the means through which various types of goods, services, and facilities can be made available to members and patrons. States that such assistance may include investigations, surveys, and director and management training and assistance. Authorizes appropriations to the Administration of sums necessary for the administration of this title. Title IV: The Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration and General Provisions - Establishes the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration. Directs the Administration to assure that the objectives of this Act are carried out. States that until the stock of the Bank held by the United States has been fully retired the Bank shall be exempt from any form of taxation. Requires the Administration and the Board to report annually to the appropriate committees of Congress on the activities of the Administration and on the Bank's capital, operations, financial condition, the self-help development fund, and to make recommendations for legislation to improve its services.

Bill· SS. 991 (95th)passed

Department of Education Organization Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1977

Department of Education Act - Establishes an executive department to be known as the Department of Education to be administered by a Secretary of Education. States that the principal function of such Department is to promote the cause and advancement of education throughout the United States. Transfers to the Secretary specified functions of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare and the Commissioner of Education, and various educational responsibilities of other Federal agencies and instrumentalities. Creates the Federal Interagency Committee on Education and the National Advisory Commission on Education. Redesignates the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, and the Secretary of such Department, as the Department of Health and Welfare, and the Secretary of Health and Welfare.

Bill· SS. 972 (95th)referred

Small Business Development Center Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1977

Small Business Development Center Act - Authorizes the Small Business Administration to make grants to universities to assist them in developing centers to provide small businesses with a broad range of advice, information, and assistance. Limits the amount of such grant to no more than 75 percent of the cost of eligible activities in the operation or development of the center, except for grants to regional centers assisting State centers in research or other high cost activities. Establishes a Small Business Management and Technical Assistance Division within the Small Business Administration to administer the Small Business Development Center program through a Deputy Associate Administrator. Establishes a Small Business Development Center Advisory Board composed of 14 members to advise and confer with the Deputy Associate Administrator for Management and Technical Assistance. Authorizes the Administration to make grants to universities, organizations, and business concerns to support research to solve problems which affect small business concerns.

Law· SS. 964 (95th)open

A bill to provide the salaries of certain positions and individuals which were increased as a result of the operation of the Federal Salary Act of 1967 shall not be increased by the first comparability pay adjustment occurring after the date of the enactment of this act.

United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1977

Prohibits the first salary adjustment which would be made under the Federal Salary Act of 1967 after the date of enactment of this Act from taking effect for the Vice President, Members of Congress, judges, commissioners, and referees, and positions in the Executive Schedule.

Bill· SS. 961 (95th)passed

Opportunities for Adoption Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1977

Opportunities for Adoption Act - Makes it the purpose of this Act to facilitate the elimination of obstacles to adoption and facilitate the placement in permanent adoptive homes of children, particularly children with special needs, by: (1) promoting the establishment of uniform adoption regulations in the States and territories of the United States in order to eliminate jurisdictional and legal obstacles to adoption; (2) providing Federal financial assistance to States for the purpose of assisting public and private nonprofit agencies and adoptive and prospective adoptive parents in meeting costs of adoption in order to remove or alleviate the financial obstacles which present serious barriers to adoption by qualified persons; (3) providing for the establishment of a national office of adoption information and services in the Department of Health, Education and Welfare to (A) insure quality standards for adoption services (including preplacement and postplacement and postadoption counseling and standards to protect the rights of children in need of adoption) and (B) provide for a national adoption information exchange system. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to appoint a committee on uniform adoption regulations. Directs such Committee to: (1) review current conditions, practices, and laws relating to adoption, with special reference to their effect on facilitating or impeding the finding of suitable adoptions; (2) propose to the Secretary uniform adoption regulations which would facilitate adoption; and (3) report its proposals to the Congress and the President not later than nine months after the Committee members have been appointed. Requires the Secretary to publish the proposed regulations in the Federal Register within six months following their receipt. Directs the Secretary to make grants to States for allocation, by State agencies principally responsible for services to families and children, to public and private nonprofit adoption agencies which meet standards of quality prescribed pursuant to this Act for the purpose of assisting; (1) such agencies in meeting the cost involved in the adoptive placement of children with special needs (including locating suitable homes and providing preplacement and postplacement and postadoptive counseling to children in need of adoption and to prospective and actual adoptive parents); (2) such agencies in meeting the cost of providing prenatal and postpartum services to mothers, voluntarily planning to place their children for adoption, who are unable to assume such costs, in order to protect the health and welfare of both the mother and child, but only to the extent that assistance under other Federal or State programs in the community in question is not readily available to provide adequately for such services; (3) prospective adoptive parents of children with special needs, who would consider adoption but for their financial inability to meet such child's needs, by sufficiently defraying adoption costs to enable the prospective adoptive parents to adopt such children; and (4) adoptive parents in locating and, where appropriate, defraying the cost of postplacement and postadoption special services to children requiring such services as a result of conditions which existed prior to their placement, up to an amount not exceeding the amount which similar services would cost the state in question were it to provide or secure such services as the guardian of such children. Directs the Secretary, in cooperation with State agencies, to ensure (1) annual reviews of the need for and adequacy of assistance; (2) assistance is being provided pursuant to an adoption assistance agreement; and (3) the establishment of a system in each State under which a family providing foster care to a child will be notified of the possibility of financial assistance for adoptive placement under this Act. Directs the Secretary to encourage and facilitate the consideration of comprehensive adoption assistance legislation by those States which have not enacted such legislation. Excludes assistance provided under this Act to adoptive parents or prospective adoptive parents from being taken into account in determining benefits available to such parents under any other Federal programs. Establishes within the Office of the Secretary a National Office of Adoption Information and Services headed by a Director. Makes it the duty of the Director to (1) establish a national adoption data, tracking, and analysis system; (2) conduct a continuing adoption education program, including the making of grants, and the publishing of materials regarding adoption and adoption assistance programs; (3) conduct a program of grants and contracts for the demonstration of methods and programs to enable families having children placed in foster homes to care for such children in their own home; (4) prepare an annual report evaluating and measuring the impact of programs authorized by this Act including in such report (A) the total number of children placed in adoptive homes and the number of such children placed under adoptive assistance agreements; and (B) estimates of the number of children in foster care or other custodial institutions who have been in such institutions for at least six months; (5) ensure that federally assisted adoption agencies are in compliance with applicable rules and regulations; (6) notwithstanding any other provisions of law, ensure the operation of national adoption information system, utilizing computers and modern data processing methods, to assist in the location of children in need of adoption and in the placement in adoptive homes of children awaiting adoption, and for the promotion of cooperative efforts with any similar programs operated by or within any State; and (7) coordinate and consult with other appropriate Federal departments and agencies with respect to services and benefits provided under this Act. Directs the Secretary and Attorney General of the United States to jointly conduct a study to determine the nature, scope, and effect of the interstate placement of children in adoptive homes by unlicensed persons or agencies and to submit such study, together with any legislative recommendations, to Congress within two years after the date of enactment of this Act. Authorizes appropriations of $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 and of such sums as may be necessary for the succeeding three years.

Bill· SS. 942 (95th)referred

A bill to amend title II of the Social Security Act to reduce from 20 to 10 years the period of time that a divorced woman's marriage to an individual must have lasted for her to qualify for wife's or widow's benefits on the basis of the wages and self-employment income of such individual.

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1977

Amends Title II (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to decrease from 20 to 10 the number of years a divorced woman must have been married to an insured individual in order for her to qualify for wife's or widow's benefits on his wage record.

Bill· SS. 936 (95th)referred

A bill to authorize the Secretary of the Navy to convey certain real property in the State of Hawaii to the present lessees of such real property.

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1977

Authorizes and directs the Secretary of the Navy to convey, to specified lessees, title of the United States to specified real property at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Makes such transfer subject to specified conditions, including the requirement that such property be used exclusively for church purposes and the reservation of the right to reenter such property during times of war or national emergency.

Bill· SS. 926 (95th)passed

Public Financing of Senate Elections Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 March 1977

Public Financing of Senate Elections Act - Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to entitle candidates for the United States Senate, who agree to comply with certain recordkeeping requirements and spending limits, to payments in accordance with the terms of this Act. Conditions eligibility for funds with respect to primary and general elections upon receipt of contributions in specified minimum amounts. Sets forth formulas for the determination of the amount of money to which a candidate is entitled. Specifies maximum amounts which a candidate may expend in connection with primary and general elections and remain eligible for funds. Specifies a limit on the amount of personal and family funds a candidate may use. Provides for adjustments in spending limits on the basis of changes in prices. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to maintain a separate Senate Campaign Account in the Presidential Election Campaign Fund and to deposit in such account amounts available in the Fund after a determination that adequate sums are available for payments under the Presidential Election Campaign Fund Act. Sets forth guidelines for reducing payments under this Act if available funds are inadequate. Requires repayment of funds paid in excess of entitlement or used for other than campaign purposes. Requires candidates for the Senate who do not receive funds under this Act to report to the Federal Election Commission within 48 hours of spending or incurring obligations to spend a total sum in excess of the limit which would apply if the candidate had been receiving funds.

Bill· SS. 897 (95th)passed

Nuclear Non-Proliferation Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1977

Nuclear Non-Proliferation Act - Declares it United States policy: (1) to pursue the establishment of international controls of nuclear equipment material, and technology, (2) to enhance the reliability of the United States as a supplier of nuclear reactors and fuels, (3) to encourage ratification of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, (4) to aid other nations in identification and adaptation of appropriate energy production technology, and (5) to ensure that United States actions in international commerce conform to the aforementioned Treaty. Declares that the United States shall furnish a reliable supply of nuclear fuel to nations adhering to policies of non-proliferation of nuclear explosive devices. Directs the President to report to Congress on the establishment of international nuclear fuel services. Declares that the United States shall undertake initiatives to prevent the development of nuclear explosive devices and to encourage nuclear safeguards. Declares that the United States shall establish a World Energy Institute to promote the development of alternative energy resources. Declares that the United States shall seek to renegotiate agreements for cooperation to make them consistent with requirements of this Act. Declares that the United States shall establish a nuclear safeguards training program for foreign countries. Sets forth criteria for the negotiation and approval of agreements for cooperation and subsequent arrangements, under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954. Permits the distribution of special nuclear materials for laboratory or emergency purposes in specified quantities without licensing by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Revises prohibitions against the unauthorized production of special nuclear material. Grants the Commission approval authority over any re-transfer of United States supplied nuclear material or equipment. Makes it unlawful to transfer sensitive nuclear technology to any non-nuclear-weapon state. Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to revise nuclear export licensing procedures and criteria. Amends such Act to authorize the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to issue export licenses for items and substances that are intended for end-use in a nuclear facility or are especially significant for non-proliferation. Directs the President to review all governmental activities relating to the non-proliferation of nuclear explosive devices. Authorizes the Appropriation of $2,000,000 for contribution to the International Atomic Energy Agency for safeguards activities. Exempts military activities of nuclear weapon states from this Act.

Bill· SS. 901 (95th)referred

Pension Simplification Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1977

Pension Simplification Act - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, including sections within the Internal Revenue Code, to terminate the Department of Labor's regulatory jurisdiction relative to pension participation, vesting, and funding standards and to substitute for the tax on prohibited transactions relative to qualified pension trusts and plans a civil penalty to be enforced by the Department of Labor. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to notify the Attorney General and the Secretary of Labor of any such prohibited transaction. Repeals provisions detailing requirements for annual employee benefit plan reports and eliminates the requirement that administrators of employee benefit plans furnish the Secretary of Labor copies of summary plan descriptions and certain plan modifications. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Labor to jointly prescribe a single filing form and a single filing date for employee benefit plans which will satisfy the annual reporting requirements of both departments. Authorizes Federal courts to render declaratory judgments with respect to a failure by the Secretary of Labor, the Secretary of the Treasury, or the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation to issue or deny a determination or to take other action relative to an employee benefit plan within 180 days after requested to do so, if the controversy involves an issue arising under certain provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act.

Bill· SS. 893 (95th)referred

A bill for the relief of Paul E. Zirkle.

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1977

Relieves a certain individual all liability to the United States for the payment of taxes, penalties and interest assessed under the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 against such individual for the taxable year ending December 31, 1974.

Bill· SS. 894 (95th)referred

A bill to establish an Executive Department to be known as the Department of Education.

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1977

Establishes the Department of Education within the Executive branch of the Federal Government to take over specified functions of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare and all of the functions of the United States Office of Education. Establishes a Federal Interagency Committee on Education.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 105 (95th)passed

A resolution calling for a White House Conference on Small Business.

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1977

Requests the President of the United States to convene a White House Conference on Small Business with the help of the Senate Small Business Committee to develop recommendations, including suggestions for joint legislative and executive action, for revitalizing and maintaining the economic viability of the small business infrastructure.

Bill· SS. 857 (95th)referred

Hawaiian Native Educational Assistance Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1977

Hawaiian Native Educational Assistance Act - Amends the Indian Education Act and certain other related education assistance programs to provide Federal financial assistance to individuals, any of whose ancestors were natives of the Hawaiian Islands prior to 1778.

Bill· SS. 858 (95th)referred

Native Hawaiian Manpower Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1977

Native Hawaiian Manpower Act - Includes Native Hawaiians in the Indian manpower programs of the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act of 1973. Increases the minimum amount of funds to be reserved for such programs.

Law· SS. 826 (95th)open

Department of Energy Organization Act

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977

Department of Energy Organization Act - Title I: Declaration of Purposes - Declares it the purpose of this Act to establish a permanent Department of Energy in the executive branch to assist in the development of a coordinated national energy policy. Title II: Establishment of Department - Establishes a Department of Energy in the executive branch. Establishes an Energy Information Administration and an Economic Regulatory Administration within such Department. Title III: Transfers of Functions - Transfers to the Secretary of Energy all functions now vested in the Federal Energy Administration, the Energy Research and Development Administration, and the Federal Power Commission. Transfers energy-related functions from the Department of the Interior to the new Secretary. Transfers specified functions of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the Interstate Commerce Commission, the Secretary of the Navy, and the Secretary of Commerce to the new Secretary. Title IV: Board of Hearings and Appeals - Establishes a three-member Board of Hearings and Appeals within the Department to make agency determinations as required by law. Prohibits persons having interests in energy companies from serving as Board members. Title V: Administrative Procedures and Judicial Review - Stipulates that the provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act shall apply to rules and regulations issued by the Secretary or a delegate. Requires that opportunity for oral presentations of viewpoints be afforded where regulations are likely to have a substantial economic impact. Requires hearings on rules which substantially impact a single geographic area to be held in such geographic area. Stipulates that United States district courts shall have exclusive jurisdiction of cases arising under this Act without regard to amount in controversy, except where otherwise provided in authority transferred to the Secretary. Title VI: Administrative Provisions - Establishes a Leasing Liaison Committee to obtain information and make recommendations on Federal leasing activities conducted by the Secretary of the Interior which relate to energy resources. Requires officers and employees of the Department of Energy to disclose known financial interests in energy companies. Imposes criminal penalties for knowing violations of such disclosure requirements. Authorizes the Secretary to delegate authority to other officers, to create regional officers, and to establish advisory committees. Requires the Secretary to submit annual reports to the President for submission to the Congress. Title VII: Transitional Savings and Conforming Provisions - Stipulates that transfers of personnel authorized by this Act shall not result in reduction in grade or unemployment for one year after enactment of this Act. Stipulates that orders, rules, and proceedings established or commenced under previous authority shall not be affected by the transfers under this Act. Amends the Federal Energy Administration Act, the Energy Reorganization Act, the Federal Power Act, the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act, the Energy Conservation Standard for New Buildings Act, the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, the Rural Electrification Act of 1936, and other provisions of law to conform with the changes made by this Act. Title VIII: Effective Date and Interim Appointments - Stipulates that the provisions of this Act shall take effect no later than 120 days after the Secretary first takes office. Establishes procedures for interim appointments of officers prior to the effective date of this Act.

Bill· SS. 845 (95th)referred

A bill to amend the Food Stamp Act of 1964, as amended.

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977

Extends the provisions of the Food Stamp Act of 1964 through fiscal year 1982. Eliminates the requirement that eligible households purchase their coupon allotments, reduces benefits, and substitutes for the current itemized deductions allowed in calculating household income a new standard deduction of $100, plus deductions for earned income and a limited amount of child care costs. Disqualifies from participation all students 18 years old or older who are or can be legally claimed as dependents of an ineligible household, and all able-bodied adults between 18 and 60 who, with specified exceptions, fail to register for work or to accept suitable job offers. Limits participation to U.S. citizens and legally admitted permanent resident aliens. States the general procedure for the certification, within 30 days, and the prompt recertification of applicant households. Establishes civil penalties as an alternative to disqualification for retail and wholesale food concerns violating provisions of the Food Stamp Act. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make research grants to study how to improve the administration and effectiveness of the food stamp program.

Bill· SS. 841 (95th)referred

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to allow a refundable tax credit equal to 50 percent of the wages paid to certain new employees.

United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow employers a refundable income tax credit for 50 percent of the wages paid new employees during the taxable years for work done in the United States. Limits the credit taken to $80,000. Reduces the allowable credit to 35 percent for certain new employees numbering more than five. Limits the number of employees for whom credit may be taken to ten new employees, or the maximum number of employees paid by the taxpayer during the calendar quarter ending the previous June 30th, whichever number is less. Directs the Secretary to submit reports to Congress in 1978 and 1980 assessing the impact of this credit.

Bill· SS. 821 (95th)referred

Agricultural Solar Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1977

Agricultural Solar Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act -- Title I: Existing Programs -- Amends the Bankhead-Jones Act of 1935 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct and to stimulate research and development relating to uses of solar energy with respect to farm buildings, farm homes and farm machinery. Authorizes the appropriation of $25,000,000 each fiscal year to carry out such research and development. Includes the agricultural uses of solar energy in the agricultural extension programs. Directs that loans, under the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, be made for the purchase of farm equipment which utilizes solar energy and for the acquisition and installation of any qualified solar energy thermal conversion system in any residential structure located on a family farm. Title II: Solar Demonstration Farms -- Establishes within the Department of Agriculture the Research and Demonstration Planning Committee which shall be responsible for compiling a list of solar energy research projects and for meeting with regional representatives of the State departments of agriculture to determine which projects will be useful and beneficial to the several States. Requires each State department of agriculture to establish one large model farm and within one year to establish not less than ten demonstrations of solar energy research projects using the most efficient or practicable research projects demonstrated on such model farm. Stipulates the terms of any agreement entered into between selected farmowners and the State departments of agriculture for the establishment of such demonstration projects. Authorizes the appropriation of $20,000,000 for the purposes of this Title, of which 80 percent is to be used by State departments of agriculture for the model farm and demonstration projects.

Bill· SS. 819 (95th)referred

Interpreters for the Hearing Impaired Act

United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1977

Interpreters for the Hearing Impaired Act - Directs Federal judges, upon determining that a party or a witness does not speak or understand English with sufficient facility due to a hearing impairment, to order that (1) the proceedings be conveyed to such party or witness through an appropriate mode of communication and (2) that the testimony of such an individual be interpreted for the court. Requires the Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts to certify interpreters for the hearing impaired and to prescribe a fee schedule for, and maintain a list of, interpreters so certified. Directs each district court to maintain a list of certified interpreters within its district. Sets forth guidelines for the selection of an interpreter if no certified interpreter is available within the district.

Bill· SS. 805 (95th)referred

Solar and Energy Conservation Commercialization Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977

Solar and Energy Conservation Commercialization Act - Amends the National Housing Act to specify additional types of solar energy systems eligible for financial assistance under such Act. Stipulates that such systems shall include solar heating and cooling and hot water systems, geothermal and wind energy systems, and other energy conservation measures and equipment such as insulation, heat pumps, and devices to improve furnace efficiency. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make grants and loans to individuals and families to assist in the purchase of solar, renewable source, and energy conservation measures and equipment. Authorizes grants and loans for similar purposes to neighborhood, community, or nonprofit groups. Amends the Small Business Act to authorize the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to make loans to small businesses to assist in the purchase and installation of solar, renewable source, and energy conservation improvements and equipment. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the Administrator of the Small Business Administration, and the Federal Energy Administrator to cooperate in carrying out the provisions of this Act and to jointly submit an annual report to the President and the Congress on activities carried out under this Act. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1978 through 1981.

Bill· SS. 806 (95th)referred

Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977

Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act - Allows an income tax credit for 30 percent of the expenditures not exceeding $750 which the taxpayer paid or incurred during the taxable year for the installation of insulation or energy-conserving components which improve heating plant efficiency in his principal residence. Limits the application of this credit to expenditures paid or incurred for installations made between 1976 and 1982 in pre-existing dwellings. Reduces the allowable credit, on a graduated scale, for individuals with adjusted gross incomes greater than $10,000. Allows an income tax credit for 40 percent of the first $1,500, and a secondary credit for 25 percent of the next $7,600 paid or incurred by the taxpayer during the taxable year for the installation of qualified solar, wind and geothermal energy equipment in his principal residence. Allows an income tax credit for 20 percent of the first $1,500, and a secondary credit for 12.5 percent of the next $7,600 paid or incurred for the installation of wood stove, heat pump, or burner equipment in connection with new solar, wind or geothermal energy equipment which will be the principal source of space heat in the taxpayer's principal residence. Reduces these limitations in subsequent tax years by subtracting the amounts taken into account for these credits in previous tax years. Limits these credits to equipment installed between 1976 and 1982. Prorates each of the above credits for residential improvements among joint owners and cooperative shareholders according to their proportionate interests in the residential property. Provides for the carryover of any allowable credit which exceeds the taxpayer's current income tax liability. Reduces the allowable credits, on a graduated scale, for persons with adjusted gross incomes greater than $15,000. Allows an investment tax credit for 25 percent of the qualified investment cost of depreciable geothermal, solar or wind energy equipment placed in service. Allows such a credit for 12 percent of the qualified costs of ventilation, heating, water and other components primarily designed to reduce the heat loss or gain of a structure, and originally used by the taxpayer. Prohibits these credits for property originally funded with Federal grants, or located in States which take these energy conserving measures into account for property assessment, or which do not enforce the thermal design requirements of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act.

Bill· SS. 807 (95th)referred

Small Business Energy Research Incentives Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977

Small Business Energy Research Incentives Act - Title I: Small Business Act Amendments - Authorizes the Small Business Administrator to make loans to assist any small business concern in financing plant construction and equipment acquisition for the production, installation, or maintenance of solar energy equipment or other energy conservation equipment. Permits the Administration to make grants to non-profit organizations for the provision of training seminars showing small business concerns methods for design, installation, and maintenance of solar energy equipment. Title II: Federal Nonnuclear Energy Research and Development Act of 1974 Amendments - Establishes within the Energy Research and Development Administration an Office of Invention and Innovation to evaluate proposals by any individual or small business concern for the development of an energy- related invention and to provide grants for the development of such invention.

Bill· SS. 800 (95th)referred

Conservation and Solar Energy-Federal Buildings Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977

Conservation and Solar Energy - Federal Buildings Act - Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to establish methods of determining the life cycle cost effectiveness for buildings, considering the life cycle fuel and energy requirements for such buildings. Requires that all Federal buildings be life cycle cost effective and that such determination serve as a basis for the awarding of contracts in the procurement and leasing of new Federal buildings. Directs the Administrator to promote the use of life cycle cost effective methods in all buildings. Directs the Administrator to establish energy performance targets for existing buildings which are compatible with new building performance standards developed by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Requires all Federal agencies to conduct an energy audit of existing buildings within their jurisdiction. Requires that a specified percentage of the gross square footage of building space be selected by each agency for retrofitting with appropriate energy conservation measures.