United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Provides that, in the case of any former member of the Armed Forces whose remains have not been recovered and have been determined to be nonrecoverable, the Secretary of the Army shall: (1) set aside a suitable plot in a national cemetery to honor the memory of such member, (2) permit the erection of an appropriate marker thereon in honor of such member, and (3) permit the remains of the surviving spouse, minor child, and, in the discretion of the Secretary of the Army, unmarried adult child of such member to be buried in such plot or an adjoining gravesite. (Amends 24 U.S.C. 281)
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Directs the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to provide for cost-of-living adjustments to disability compensation rates payable to veterans residing outside the contiguous United States. (Adds 38 U.S.C. 362)
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
States that, under such regulations as the President shall prescribe, when an employee of an agency of the United States who is stationed in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam, or any territory of the United States is entitled to receive for himself or his immediate family, or both, any specified travel or relocation benefits solely as a result of his claim of actual residence outside the area in which he is stationed, the employing agency may terminate his entitlement to such benefits if: (1) qualified local residents, who are not already employees of an agency of the United States, are eligible and available for employment in the position held by the employee; (2) the initial or renewal period of the employee's current contract or agreement has expired; and (3) the employee refuses, or otherwise indicates that he would not accept, assignment to a comparable position in the continental United States or to any other area in which he claims an actual residence. Provides that the employee may continue in the same position at the same rank and pay without being separated or otherwise subject to a break in service if he certifies that he has become, or has initiated appropriate action to become, a permanent resident of the area in which stationed, and intends to maintain permanent residence in that area. (Adds 5 U.S.C. 5734)
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Entitles a Federal employee, upon separation from the Civil Service, to a lump sum payment for accumulated and accrued annual leave without limitation upon the number of days carried over from one year to the next. (Amends 5 U.S.C. 5551(a), (b); 6304)
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Provides that an employee of an executive agency in a position for which the rate of basic pay is fixed and adjusted from time to time in accordance with prevailing rates by a wage board or similar administrative authority serving the same purpose, who is assigned or detailed to perform any duties of any other such position which is in a grade or a schedule of pay having a rate or rates of pay higher than his then existing rate of basic pay, is entitled, for the period of his assignment or detail, to the lowest rate of basic pay of the grade or pay schedule of such other position which exceeds his then existing rate of basic pay by at least two steps of the grade or pay schedule of his then existing position, or, if there is no such rate in the grade or pay schedule of such other position, he is entitled, for the period of his assignment or detail, to the maximum rate of the grade or pay schedule of such other position. (Adds 5 U.S.C. 5345a)
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Entitles Federal civilian personnel on oceangoing vessels to immediate retirement and full annuity upon separation from the Civil Service after attaining fifty years of age and completing twenty years of service, if the head of the Agency has recommended retirement and the Civil Service Commissioner approves that recommendation. (Amends 5 U.S.C. 8336(c))
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Provides for the inclusion in the computation of accredited service under the Civil Service Retirement Act periods of service rendered States or instrumentalities of States in Federal-State cooperative programs. (Adds 5 U.S.C. 8332(k))
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Removes the present reduction in the retired or retirement pay of retired officers of regular components of the uniformed services who are employed in civilian offices or positions in the Government of the United States. (Repeals 5 U.S.C. 5532)
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Authorizes the payment of specified increased annuities to secretaries of justices and judges of the United States. (Amends 5 U.S.C. 8331, 8334(c), 8339(b))
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
War Powers Act - Declares that it is the purpose of this Act to fulfill the intent of the framers of the Constitution of the United States and insure that the collective judgment of both the Congress and the President will apply to the introduction of the Armed Forces of the United States in hostilities, or in situations where imminent involvement in hostilities is clear from the circumstances, and to the continued use of such forces in hostilities. States that the Act is not intended to encroach upon the recognized powers of the President, as Commander in Chief, to conduct hostilities authorized by the Congress, to respond to attacks or the imminent threat of attacks upon the United States, including its territories and possessions, to respond to attacks or the imminent threat of attacks against the Armed Forces of the United States, and under proper circumstances, to rescue endangered citizens of the United States located in foreign countries. Provides that, in the absence of a declaration of war by the Congress, the Armed Forces of the United States may be introduced in hostilities, or in situations where imminent involvement in hostilities is clearly indicated by the circumstances, only: (a) to repel an armed attack upon the United States, its territories and possessions; to take necessary and appropriate retaliatory actions in the event of such an attack; and to forestall the direct and imminent threat of such an attack; (b) to repel an armed attack against the Armed Forces of the United States located outside of the United States, its territories and possessions, and to forestall the direct and imminent threat of such an attack; (c) to protect while evacuating citizens of the United States, as rapidly as possible, from the high seas or any country in which such citizens are present with the express or tacit consent of the government of such country, and who are being subjected to a direct and imminent threat to their lives, either sponsored by such government or beyond the power of such government to control; or (d) pursuant to specific statutory authorization, but authority to introduce the Armed Forces of the United States into hostilities shall not be inferred from any treaty or from any provision of law, including any provision contained in any appropriation Act, unless such provisions specifically authorize the introduction of such Armed Forces in hostilities and exempts the introduction of such armed forces from compliance with the provisions of this Act. Stipulates that no treaty in force at the time of the enactment of this Act shall be construed as specific statutory authority for, or a specific exemption permitting, the introduction of the Armed Forces in any such situation. Provides that the use of the Armed Forces of the United States in hostilities pursuant to this Act shall be reported promptly in writing by the President to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate, together with a full account of the circumstances under which such hostilities were initiated, the estimated scope of such hostilities, and the consistency of such hostilities with the applicable provisions of this Act. States that hostilities commenced pursuant to this Act shall not be sustained beyond thirty days from the date of their initiation except as provided in specific legislation enacted for that purpose by the Congress. Provides that hostilities commenced pursuant to this Act may be terminated prior to the thirty day period by statute or joint resolution of Congress, except where the President certifies that continued use of the Armed Forces is necessary for the safety and prompt disengagement of United States forces. Directs that any bill or resolution, authorizing continuance or termination of military hostilities shall, if sponsored or co-sponsored by one third of the Members of the House of Congress in which it originates, be considered reported to the floor of such House no later than one day following its introduction, unless the Members otherwise determine by yeas and nays. States that any such bill or resolution referred to a committee after having passed one House of Congress shall be considered reported from such committee within one day after it is referred to such committee, unless the Members of the House referring it to committee shall otherwise determine by yeas and nays. Provides that any bill or resolution reported shall immediately become the pending business of the House to which it is reported, and shall be voted upon within three days after such report, unless such House shall otherwise determine by yeas and nays. Directs that this Act will not affect military hostilities already undertaken before enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Imposes on the taxable income of every individual, other than an estate and trust, a tax determined in accordance with the table set forth in the Internal Revenue Code. Allows a married individual who does not make a single return jointly with his spouse to allocate amounts received for services performed by that spouse into the account by the spouse who performed the services and not into the account by the other spouse. (Amends 26 U.S.C. 1, 2)
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Revises the conditions governing eligibility of blind persons to receive disability insurance benefits under title II of the Social Security Act (old-age, survivors', and disability insurance).
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Provides under the Internal Revenue Code that the personal exemptions for the taxpayer or his spouse who has attained age 65 shall be $3,000 instead of $1,500.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Allows a tax deduction under the Internal Revenue Code of not more than $750 for ordinary and necessary expenses paid during the taxable year for the repair or improvement of property used by the taxpayer as his principal residence. Permits any person who is the owner of rental housing and who rehabilitates or restores such housing to deduct the cost of such restoration, with respect to the amortization of the adjusted basis of such housing as so restored, based on a period of 60 months. Entitles any person who acquires rehabilitated or restored rental housing from a taxpayer who elected the amortization deduction and who did not discontinue the amortization deduction, to a deduction with respect to the adjusted basis of such facility based on the remaining amount of the 60 month period taken by the person who rehabilitated the house. Provides procedures for the election and termination of the amortization deduction and defines the terms used in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Increases the exemption under the Internal Revenue Code for purposes of determining the value of the taxable estate for the Federal estate tax from $60,000 to $120,000. (Amends 26 U.S.C. 2052, 6018(a)(1))
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Noncontiguous State Transportation Act - Authorizes to be appropriated to the Secretary from the highway trust fund for use in each non-contiguous State for transportation purposes the amount elected to be used for such purposes by the Governor of such non-contiguous State. Permits the Governor of a non-contiguous State to elect to have all or part of one or more of such non-contiguous State's Federal-aid-highway system apportionments for a fiscal year made available to the Secretary for making grants in that year to such non-contiguous State, or to local public bodies or agenices in such non-contiguous State. Requires such grants to be made in accordance with the provisions of the Urban Mass Transportation Act of 1964, or in accordance with any other Act of Congress authorizing grants to the several States, or political subdivisions thereof, for providing transportation facilities and services, including the development of plans for balanced statewide, metropolitan or regional transportation systems within such non-contiguous State; except that not to exceed one-half of the amount available to the Secretary for making such grants in any non-contiguous State may, upon the request of the Governor of such non-contiguous State, be paid to such non-contiguous State, or such agency or agencies thereof as the Governor may designate, for expenditure in accordance with the laws of such non-contiguous State for transportation purposes. Provides that such election shall be made in such manner as the Secretary shall by regulation prescribe, within sixty days after he certifies to the Governor the sums apportioned to that non-contiguous State for a fiscal year. Requires the Governor, in making such election, to specify the amount to be deducted from one or more of the non-contiguous State's Federal-aid-highway system apportionments in order to make available to the Secretary the amount elected to be used for transportation purposes. Provides that if the amount which a Governor of a non-contiguous State elects to have used in a fiscal year for transportation in such non-contiguous State exceeds the sum of amounts expended and obligated by the Secretary in such fiscal year in such non-contiguous State from amounts appropriated, then at the end of such fiscal year such excess shall no longer be available for such purposes and shall, on January 1 of the next succeeding fiscal year, be added to the non-contiguous State's Federal-aid-highway system apportionments for the second fiscal year beginning after such election. Requires the addition to each of a non-contiguous State's apportionments to bear the same proportion to such excess as the amount deducted from the corresponding apportionment for the fsical year in which such excess occurred bore to the amount elected to be used for transportaion purposes in such fiscal year. Defines various terms in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Declares that it is the policy of the United States, as an employer, to assure that those officials of Executive agencies charged with administrative or supervisory responsibility recognize and protect the personal and individual rights, entitlements, and benefits of employees of, and applicants for employment in, Executive agencies. Provides that an official of an Executive agency may not: (1) require or request an employee or an applicant for employment in an Executive agency to disclose his race, religion, or national origin, or the race, religion, or national origin of any of his forebears; (2) coerce, require, or request an employee to attend or participate in a formal or informal meeting, assemblage, or other group activity held to present, advocate, develop, explain, or otherwise cover in any way, any matter or subject other than the performance of the employee's official duties, or the development of skills, knowledge, or abilities that qualify him for the performance of those official duties; (3) coerce, require, or request any employee to participate in any way in an activity or undertaking unless it is related to the performance of the employees official duties, or to make any report concerning any activity or undertaking of the employee not involving his official duties; (4) require or request an employee, or any applicant for employment, to submit to an interrogation or examination or to take a polygraph or psychological test designed to elicit from the employee or applicant information concerning his personal relationship with any individual related to him by blood or marriage, his religious beliefs or practices, or his attitude or conduct with respect to sexual matters; (5) coerce or require an employee to invest his earnings in bonds or other obligations or securities issued by the United States or by an Executive agency, or to make donations to any institution or cause of any kind, (6) require or request an employee to disclose his property or the property of any member of his family or household; (7) prohibit or restrict the exercise by an employee of the right of reasonable communication with an official of his agency; or (8) in any way remove or suspend an employee by reaons of the refusal or failure of the employee to submit to or comply with any requirement, request, or action prohibited by the Act, or the exercise by the employee of any right, entitlement, benefit, or other protection granted or secured by the foregoing and the right to request judicial review in a Federal Court of actions against him provided by this Act. Provides that the above shall not apply to: (1) the Central Intelligence Agency; (2) the National Security Agency; (3) the Federal Bureau of Investigation; or (4) any other Executive agency as the President in the interest of national security may recommend to the Congress. Provides for a grievance procedure for an employee who claims to be aggrieved by a violation of this Act. Establishes a Board on Employee Rights. Provides that the Board shall hear complaints from employees, or applicants for employment, on alleged violations of the provisions of this Act. Specifies the procedure under which the Board shall operate, including notice to all parties and a prompt hearing. Empowers the Board to make final decisions on all such complaints for purposes of judicial review. Provides that, when an Executive agency is determined to be in violation of the Act, the Board shall have the power: (1) to issue cease and desist orders; (2) to use informal powers of conference, conciliation, and pursuasion; and (3) to issue an official reprimand to or suspend the pay for a maximum of 15 days of the official for his first offense, or suspend his pay for 15 to 60 days or order removal from office of the official for his second offense. Provides that if the Board determines that a violation of this Act has been committed or threatened by an official of an Executive agency subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice, the Board shall: (1) report such finding to the Secretary of the department involved; and (2) endeavor to eliminate any unlawful act or practice which constitutes such a violation by informal methods of conference, conciliation, and persuasion. Provides that the Secretary of the department involved shall take immediate steps to dispose of the matter under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Provides that the Board shall make an annual report on its activities to the President for transmittal to Congress. Provides that the Secretary of each military department shall submit an annual report to the President for transmittal to Congress on his activities under this Act. Provides that the Federal district court shall have the power to hear a petition for a review of a dtermination or order of the Board, or a complaint for a trial de novo on the violation or threatened violation of this Act, which was the subject of the determination or order of the Board. Provides that an individual called on to participate in any phase of an administrative or judicial proceeding under this Act shall be free from restraint, coercion, interference, intimidation, or reprisal in the course of, or because of, his participation.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Modifies the decrease in Federal group life insurance from 2 percent to 1 percent at the end of each full calendar month after the date an employee becomes 65 years of age or retires, whichever, is later. Provides that the Civil Service Commission may prescribe minimum amounts, not less than 50 percent of the amount of life insurance in force before the first reduction, to which the insurance may be reduced, and makes this provision retroactive to all insurance in force on the date of enactment. (Amends 5 U.S.C. 8706(b))
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Permits immediate retirement, with entitlement to a reduced annuity, for an employee separated from the Civil Service while his agency is undergoing a major reduction in force, as determined by the Civil Service Commission, if such employee has completed 25 years of service, or is 50 years of age and has completed 20 years of service. (Amends 5 U.S.C. 8336(d))
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Establishes in the Executive Office of the President the Commission on the Capability of the National Guard to Control Civil Distrubances: (1) to establish minimum training, doctrine, and equipment standards for the National Guard with respect to its use in civil disturbances; (2) to perform annual inspection of all National Guard units to determine whether or not such standards are being implemented and adhered to at the unit level and on a statewide basis; (3) to take such action as is authorized under this Act in order to insure that such standards are met; (4) to perform comprehensive reviews and critiques of the operations of any National Guard unit when used in civil disturbance control duty; (5) to contract for studies and for research and development for the purpose of devising effective nonlethal weapons and devices suitable for civil disturbance control use; (6) to act as principal coordinator between State National Guards and State and local law enforcement agencies with respect to the formulation of contingency plans and preparations for the control of civil disturbances and the exchange of relevant information and technology; and (7) to report at least annually to Congress with respect to the administration of this Act and the readiness and capability (including the availability and sufficiency of recommended protective clothing and devices, communications equipment, and nonlethal weapons) of the National Guard of each State to perform civil disturbance functions in accordance with the prescribed standards. Provides that, if the Commission finds that any unit of a State National Guard has refused to implement any of the standards prescribed by the Commission under this Act does not routinely meet or enforce any such standards, or, when deployed in civil disturbance, violates any such standards, the Commission shall bar the National Guard unit concerned from receiving money or any other aid, benefit, or privilege authorized by law until such time as the Commission determines that the unit has taken such actions as the Commission deems appropriate and necessary to insure that such unit will thereafter comply with this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1973
Declares the policy of the United States to be: (1) to facilitate and encourage the substitution of metric measurement units for customary measurement units to education, trade, commerce, and all other sectors of the economy of the United States: (2) to facilitate and encourage the development as rapidly as practicable of new or revised engineering standards based on metric measurement units in those specific fields or areas in the United States where such standards will result in rationalization or simplification of relationships, improvements of design, or increases in economy; (3) to facilitate and encourage the retention in new metric language standards of those United States engineering designs, practices, and conventions that are internationally accepted or embody superior technology; (4) to cooperate with foreign governments and public and private international organizations which are or become concerned with the encouragement and coordination of increased use of metric measurement units or engineering standards based on such units, or both, with a view to gaining international recognition for metric standards proposed by the United States and to encouraging retention of equivalent customary units in international recommendations during the United States changeover period; and (5) to assist the public through information and educational programs to become familiar with the meaning and applicability of metric terms and measures in daily life. Establishes a National Metric Conversion Board to implement the policy set out in this joint resolution. Provides that within twelve months after funds have been appropriated to carry out the provisions of this resolution the Board shall develop and submit to the Secretary of Commerce for his approval and transmittal to the President a comprehensive plan to accomplish a changeover to the metric system of measurement in the United States. Provides that, upon approval of the plan by the President, the Board shall begin the implementation of the plan, except those recommendations, if any, which require legislation. Provides that the Board shall terminate not later than ten years after approval by the President of the plan established under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 January 1973
Antihijacking Act - Provides that whenever the President determines that a foreign nation is acting in a manner inconsistent with the Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Seizure of Aircraft, he may suspend the right of any air carrier and foreign air carrier to engage in foreign air transportation, and any persons to operate aircraft in foreign air commerce, to and from that foreign nation as well as between the United States and any foreign nation which maintains air service between itself and that foreign nation. Provides that after June 30, 1973, no air carrier or foreign air carrier shall operate an aircraft in air transportation unless all passengers boarding that aircraft in the United States, and all baggage carried aboard the aircraft, shall have been inspected by means of a metal detection device or by an X-ray device immediately prior to boarding and have not been found to carry or contain an unauthorized device or weapon of any kind. Prescribes criminal penalties for violation of this Act. (Amends 49 U.S.C. 1514, 1421)
United States · United States Congress · 11 January 1973
Prohibits funds authorized or appropriated for United States forces and military actions in Indochina to be used for any purpose other than the withdrawal from protection of forces in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. Requires such withdrawal of forces within 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act, provided there is a release of all prisoners of war by the Government of North Vietnam and its allies within that period. Requires an accounting of United States servicemen missing in action by the Government of North Vietnam and its allies before the completion of withdrawal. Provides that no air bombing operations by United States forces shall be carried out in or over North Vietnam, South Vietnam, Cambodia, or Laos after the date of the enactment of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 January 1973
Provides that all meetings of any Government agency at which any official action is considered or discussed shall be open to the public. Provides that the above provision shall not apply to that portion of any meeting in which the action or proposed action to be taken, considered, or discussed by an agency: (1) relates to a matter affecting the national security; (2) relates solely to the internal management of such agency; (3) might tend to reflect adversely on the character or reputation of any individual who is subject to any proposed or potential sanction by such agency; or (4) might divulge matters required to be kept confidential under specific statutory provisions. Requires each agency subject to the requirements of this Act to establish, through publication in the Federal Register, procedures for providing public notice of meetings required by this Act to be open to the public. Revises the Legislative Reorganization Act to bring the procedures of the Congress into substantial conformity with the above standards. (Amends 2 U.S.C. 190a). Provides that the district courts of the United States shall have original jurisdiction of actions to render declaratory judgments or to enforce, by injunction or otherwise, the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 January 1973
Directs the Secretary of Defense to furnish the House of Representatives with data relating to the extent of the bombing of North Vietnam from December 17, 1972, through January 10, 1973.
United States · United States Congress · 9 January 1973
Provides, under the National Labor Management Relations act, that at lease 96 hours before any labor organization declares a strike it shall report in writing to the President its intention to strike, if in the opinion of such organization such strike would be directed against an employer engaged in transportation. Providing that at least 96 hours before it declares a lockout any employer shall report in writing to the President its intention to effect a lockout, if it considers itself to be an employer engaged in transportation. States that if the President finds that such strike or lockout would imperil the health or safety of any substantial geographic sector of the United States he shall direct the Attorney General to petition any district court of the United States having jurisdiction of the parties to enjoin such strike or lockout. Provides that a labor organization or employer does not report to the President, and if the strike or lockout which had been impending occurs, any interested third party may notify the President in writing that, at the time of such notification, the strike is directed against an employer engaged in transportation. Authorizes the President to appoint an inquiry committee within 24 hours from the time he receives such notification. Provides that two members of such committee shall be appointed from a list of six individuals submitted by any labor organization directly involved in the impending or actual strike or lockout, two members shall be appointed from a list of six individuals submitted by any employer directly involved in such impending or actual strike or lockout, and one member shall be appointed from a list of three individuals submitted by the above four. States that, within 48 hours after its appointment, the committee shall conduct hearings or similar sessions, either in public or in private, solely to inquire into the question of whether or not the strike or lockout is imperiling or would imperil, if permitted to continue, the health or safety of the general public, and report its findings in writing to the President. Requires the President to direct the Attorney General to petition any district court having jurisdiction to enjoin such strike or lockout which is imperiling or would imperil the health and safety of the general public. Provides for fines of $100,000 against any labor organization or employer who does not comply with the notification requirements of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
(LATEST SUMMARY) Authorizes the Administrator of General Services to donate all right and title of the United States to specified flatcars and a locomotive to the Hawaii Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society to be used in a park and museum to be built within three years in the State of Hawaii.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Establishes an Institute for Continuing Studies of Juvenile Justice to serve as a coordinating center for the collection and dissemination of information in the field of juvenile delinquency and control, including comparisons and analysis of State and Federal laws and model laws and recommendations designed to promote effective and efficient systems of juvenile justice; and as a training center for representatives of all levels of government who are connected with the treatment and control of juvenile offenders. Provides that the Institute shall be under the supervision of a Director, appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, who will supervise the staff, faculty, and administrative personnel necessary to the Institute's functioning. Gives the Institute powers to carry out the objectives of this Act. Creates an Advisory Commission to design a curriculum for the Institutes enrollees and to supervise the overall policy and operations of the Institute. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for the purposes of this Act. (Adds 18 U.S.C. 5041-5048)
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Criminal Injuries Compensation Act - Establishes a three member Violent Crimes Compensation Commission to hold hearings to determine the compensation for persons injured by crimes of violence committed in areas under the exclusive or concurrent jurisdiction of the Federal Government. Provides that the Commission can make such an award only if it is determined at the hearing that the act occurred and injury or death resulted from the act. Permits payment to the injured party or his survivors even if no prosecution or conviction arose out of the act. Limits compensation to a maximum of $25,000. Provides compensation for expenses incurred as a result of personal injury or death; loss of earning power; financial loss to the dependents of the deceased victim; pain and suffering; and other reasonable financial losses as determined by the Commission. Declares that compensation may be recovered after hearings for the following violent crimes: assault with intent to kill, rob, rape, or poison; assault with intent to commit mayhem; assault with a dangerous weapon; assault; mayhem; malicious disfiguring; threats to do bodily harm; lewd, indecent or obscene acts; indecent act with children; arson, kidnapping; robbery; murder; voluntary manslaughter; attempted murder; rape; attempted rape; other crimes involving force to the person. Provides that, if a person is convicted of an act and a compensation payment is made, the Commission may institute action against that person for recovery of the compensation. Requires an annual report to the President and Congress concerning the Commissions' activities. Authorizes necessary appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Food Supplement Amendment - Defines the term "food supplement" for purposes of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetics Act to mean food for special dietary uses, and defines the meaning of "special dietary uses" as particular uses of food for man which meets specified requirements. Provides that in administering such Act the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare: (1) shall not limit the potency, number, combination, amount, or variety of any synthetic or natural vitamin, mineral, substance, or ingredient of any food supplement unless such article is intrinsically injurious to health in the recommended dosage; and (2) shall not require a warning label on any food supplement unless such article is intrinsically injurious to health in the recommended dosage.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Permits the transportation of merchandise in other than domestic-built or rebuilt and documented vessels between points in the State of Alaska and points in the State of Hawaii whenever the Secretary of Commerce, after notice and opportunity for hearing, determines that there is no domestic vessel reasonably available to serve between such points for the transportation of such merchandise. Provides for the termination of this exception whenever the Secretary determines that the conditions required for the exception no longer exist. (Amends 46 U.S.C. 883)
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Requires the Secretary of Transportation, after consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, to issue regulations requiring the disinsection of aircraft arriving at any point in the United States after flight through airspace outside the United States. Provides that such regulations shall establish, from time to time, minimum procedures, equipment, facilities, and materials required to be employed for the proper disinsection of aircraft and minimum training requirements for individuals engaged in aircraft disinsection.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Handgun Control Act - Makes it unlawful for any person to import, manufacture, sell, buy, transfer, receive or transport any handgun. Provides that the Secretary of the Treasury may, consistent with public safety and necessity, exempt from such prohibition the importation, manufacture, sale, purchase, transfer, receipt, or transportation of handguns by importers, manufacturers, or dealers, licensed under chapter 44 of title 18, United States Code, and by pistol clubs licensed under this chapter as may in his judgment be required for the operation of such pistol club. Requires a pistol club desiring to be licensed under this chapter to file an application for such license with the Secretary. Establishes a $25 annual fee for such license. Directs such clubs to meet various requirements in order to have their applications approved. Provides for administrative and judicial review in the case of a license denial or revocation by the Secretary. Provides that whoever violates any provision of this chapter or knowingly makes any false statement or represenation with respect to the information required by the provisions of this chapter to be kept in the records of a pistol club licensed under this chapter, or in applying for any license under the provisions of this chapter, shall be fined not more than $5,000, or imprisoned not more than five years, or both, and shall become eligible for parole as the Board of Parole shall determine. Provides that any handgun involved or used in, or intended to be used in, any violation of the provisions of this chapter or chapter 44 (firearms legislation) of title 18, United States Code, or any rule or regulation promulgated thereunder, or any violation of any other criminal law of the United States, shall be subject to seizure and forfeiture. Exempts from the provisions of this Act the importation, manufacture, sale, purchase, transfer, receipt, or transportation of any handgun which the Secretary determines is: (1) being imported or manufactured for, sold, or transferred to, purchased, received, or transported by, or issued for the use of, the United States or any department or agency thereof or any State or any department, agency or political subdivision thereof; and (2) unserviceable, not restorable to firing condition, and intended for use as a curio, museum piece, or collectors' item. Establishes procedures for the reimbursement of a person who voluntarily delivers a handgun to a law enforcement agency. Directs the Secretary to prescribe such rules and regulations as he deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. (Adds 18 U.S.C. 1091-1100)
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Consumer Protection Act - Title I: Office of Consumers Affairs - Creates an Office of Consumer Affairs, within the Executive Office of the President, to coordinate Federal consumer protection activities, serve as a clearinghouse for complaints, and publish Government consumer information. Provides that the office shall be headed by a Director appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, and gives the Director powers to carry out the objectives of this Act. Requires the Director to transmit to the Congress and the President an annual report of the activities of the Office during the preceding year including a summary of complaints and the need for additional legislation to protect the interest of the U.S. consumer. Provides that it shall be the function of the Office to: (1) coordinate the programs and activities of all Federal agencies relating to the interests of consumers in order to achieve effectiveness, and avoid duplications and inconsistencies; (2) encourage and assist in the development and implementation of consumer programs and activities in the Federal Government; (3) assure that the interests of consumers are taken into consideration by appropriate Federal agencies both in the formulation of policies with respect to consumers and in the operation of programs that may effect consumer interests; (4) cooperate with and, when requested, provide assistance to the Administrator of the Consumer Protection Agency; (5) advise and make recommendations to all Federal agencies with respect to general policy and matters concerning the effectiveness of programs and activities relating to the interests of consumers; (6) submit recommendations to the Congress and the President on the means by which programs and activities relating to the interests of consumers can be improved; (7) conduct conferences, surveys, and investigations, concerning the needs, interests, and problems of consumers which are not duplicative in significant degree to similar activities conducted by other Federal agencies; (8) encourage, initiate, coordinate, and participate in consumer education and counseling programs (including credit counseling); (9) encourage, support, and coordinate research and studies leading to improved products, services, and consumers information; (10) cooperate with and give technical assistance to State and local governments in the promotion and protection of consumer interests, including programs relating to the arbitration of disputes between consumers and businessmen and producers; (11) cooperate with and assist private enterprise in the promotion and protection of consumer interests; (12) publish and distribute in a Consumer Register, material which will include notices of Federal hearings, proposed and final rules and orders, and other useful information, translated from its technical form into language which is understandable by the public; and (13) keep the appropriate committees of the Congress fully and currently informed of all its activities, except that this paragraph is not authority to withhold information requested by individual Members of Congress. Transfers the functions of the Special Assistant to the President for consumer affairs to the Director. Title II: Consumer Protection Agency - Establishes as an independent agency within the executive branch of the Government the Consumer Protection Agency, headed by an Administrator appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, to advise the Congress and the President as to matters concerning consumer interests and to protect the interests of consumers. Gives the Agency powers to carry out the objectives of this Act and sets out specific functions for the Agency. Asserts that the functions of the Agency shall be to: (1) formally represent the interests of consumers in proceedings before Federal agencies and courts; (2) encourage and support research, studies and testing leading to a better understanding of consumer products and to improved products, services, and consumer information; (3) submit 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 consumer interests; (4) publish and distribute material developed pursuant to carrying out its responsibilities which will inform consumers of matters of interests to them; (5) continue the work of the National Commission on Product Safety; (6) conduct conferences and surveys concerning the needs, interests, and problems of consumers which are not duplicative in significant degree to similar activities conducted by other Federal agencies; and, for the purpose of conducting such conferences, surveys, and investigations provides that the Agency shall have the powers which are conferred upon the Federal Trade Commission by section 9 of the Federal Trade Commission Act with respect to the conduct of investigations made by that Commission under that Act, except that the Agency may not grant to any person any immunity from prosecution, penalty, or forfeiture in accordance with the provisions of such section without first obtaining the written consent of the Attorney General; (7) keep the appropriate committees of Congress fully and currently informed on all its activities, except that this paragraph is not authority to withhold information requested by individual Members of Congress; and (8) cooperate with and, when requested, provide assistance to the Director of the Office in the carrying out of his functions. Allows the Agency to intervene and represent the interests of consumers in Federal agencies investigations or hearings where the interests of such consumers would not otherwise be adequately protected. Authorizes the Agency to assert the interests of consumers in any U.S. court proceeding involving the review of an action of a Federal agency. Requires the Office and Agency to receive information disclosing a probable violation of any law, administrative order, Federal judgment, or other trade practice affecting consumer interests and to take action to prohibit any further violation. Requires the Agency and Office to develop and disseminate data concerning the function and duties of the Agency and Office, consumer problems and trade practice detrimental to the interests of consumers. Authorizes the Agency to carry out the functions of the National Commission on Product Safety when such commission ceases by law to exist. Title III: Consumer Advisory Council; Protection of Consumer Interest In Administrative Proceedings; Miscellaneous Amendments - Establishes a Consumer Advisory Council consisting of 15 members to advise the Director and Administrator on matters concerning consumer interests and to review the effectiveness of Federal programs relating to consumer interest. Requires every Federal agency taking any action affecting consumer interests to provide notice of such action to the Office or Agency and to take action to consider the interests of consumers. Authorizes appropriations to the Agency necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Authorizes the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration to establish and conduct a permanent training program for prosecuting attorneys from Federal, State, and local offices engaged in the prosecution of organized crime. Provides that the program shall be designed to develop new or improved approaches, techniques, systems, manuals, and devices to strengthen prosecutive capabilities against organized crime. Directs the Administration to appoint a National Advisory Committee on the Training of Organized Crime Prosecutors. Provides that this committee shall be composed of 15 members and shall advise, consult with, and make recommendations to the Administration with respect to the curriculum, course materials, administration, and all other aspects of the training program. Authorizes the Attorney General to call a conference of Federal, State, and local officials who are engaged in combating organized crime. Requires the Attorney General to annually report to the Congress and the President on organized crime in the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Public Service Employment Act - Declares it to be the purpose of this Act to provide unemployed and underemployed persons with employment in jobs providing needed public services and appropriate training and related services. Authorizes to be appropriated to carry out this Act $3,000,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, $7,000,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, and $10,000,000,000 for fiscal year 1976, and for each fiscal year thereafter. Provides that the Secretary of Labor shall enter into arrangements with applicants for the purpose of providing financial assistance to public and private nonprofit agencies and institutions for the creation of jobs providing employment for unemployed or underemployed persons in carrying out needed public services. Provides that such eligible applicants shall be: (1) States, counties, cities, and other units or combinations of units of general local government which have established public service employment councils; and (2) other public and private agencies and institutions when government units of services are inadequate or nonexistent. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements with eligible applicants, using 25 percent of the funds authorized under this Act, for the purpose of providing employment, for unemployed and underemployed persons residing in areas of substantial unemployment, in jobs providing needed public services, which shall be carried out to the maximum practicable extent within such areas. Provides for the establishmentof a public service employment council, which shall: (1) be representative of community organizations, job and service providers, and organizations representing persons intended to be served by this Act; (2) set forth plans for conducting surveys and analyses of unemployment and underemployment and needs for public services in the area served by the council; and (3) set forth arrangements assuring that community action agencies, model cities programs, and other appropriate community organizations, will be involved in the development of applications for financial assistance under this Act. Provides that an application for financial assistance under this Act shall set forth: (1) a description of the geographical area to be served by such program; (2) a description of unmet public service needs; (3) a description of jobs to be filled; (4) wages and salaries to be paid; (5) the education, training, and supportive services which complement and enhance the work performed; (6) a description of career opportunities and job advancement potentialities for participants; (7) assurances that all persons employed under any such program will be selected from among unemployed and underemployed persons; and (8) assurances that special consideration will be given to employing persons who have become unemployed as a result of technological changes or as a result of shifts in the pattern of Federal expenditures. Provides that the Secretary shall not provide financial assistance for any program or activity under this Act unless he determines that: (1) the program will result in an increase in employment opportunities over those which would otherwise be available, will not result in the displacement of currently employed workers, will not impair existing contracts for services or result in the substitution of Federal for other funds in connection with work that would otherwise be performed, and will not substitute public service jobs for other federally assisted jobs; (2) persons employed in public service jobs assisted under this Act shall be paid wages which shall not be lower than whichever is the highest of the minimum wage which would be applicable to the employee under the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, the State or local minimum wage for the most nearly comparable covered employment, or the prevailing rates of pay for persons employed in similar public occupations by the same employer; (3) funds under this Act will not be used to pay persons employed in public service jobs under this Act at a rate in excess of $12,000 per year; (4) all persons employed in public service jobs assisted under this Act will be assured of workmen's compensation, health insurance, unemployment insurance, and other benefits at the same levels and to the same extent as other employees of the employer and to the same working conditions and promotional opportunities as such other employees enjoy; (5) provisions of law relating to health and safety conditions shall apply to such program or activity; (6) the program will, to the maximum extent feasible, contribute to the occupational development or upward mobility of individual participants; (7) not to exceed 10 percent of the funds available for any program under this Act will be used for the acquisition or the rental or leasing of supplies, equipment, materials, or real property; and (8) every participant shall be advised, prior to entering upon employment, of his rights and benefits in connection with such employment. Provides that the Secretary shall transmit at least annually a detailed report setting forth the activities conducted under this Act. Provides that the Secretary shall carry out a program of research and pilot projects into alternative ways and means to research full employment.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Travel Agents Registration Act - Declares the finding of Congress that it is in the public interest to strengthen the travel agency industry and to maintain public confidence in travel agents by regulating travel agents. Provides that on and after January 1, 1974, no person shall, directly or indirectly, engage in the business of conducting a travel agency without having first received a registration certificate as provided by this Act. Establishes in the Department of Transportation a Bureau of Travel Agents Registration, headed by a Director appointed by the Secretary of Transportation. Provides that the Director shall promulgate such rules and regulations, including, but not limited to, those necessary to require sound financial practices by registered travel agents and those considered necessary to carry out the purposes of this title. Provides that the Secretary shall establish such rules and regulations as may be necessary: (1) to provide for applications in such form and containing such information as may by necessary to obtain registration pursuant to this title; (2) to require that each applicant make an adequate showing of financial responsibility to engage in the business of conducting a travel agency in order to obtain such registration; and (3) to require that such financial responsibility be established in accordance with objective criteria prescribed in such rules and regulations. Provides that registration certificates issued pursuant to this title shall not be assignable or transferable. Provides for a fine of up to $1,000 upon a finding that the holder of a registration certificate has engaged in any of the following practices: (1) fraud or bribery in securing a registration certificate issued pursuant to this title; (2) the making of any false statement as to a material matter in any application or other statement required by or pursuant to this title; (3) violation of any provision of this title or any code, rule, or regulation adopted hereunder; (4) any fraud or fraudulent practice in the operation and conduct of a travel agency business including, but not limited to, intentionally misleading advertising; (5) activities prohibited by this title leading to conviction of a misdemeanor; (6) activities leading to conviction of a misdemeanor; (6) activities leading to conviction of a felony; and (7) breach of a fiduciary duty to a principal. Provides for the revocation of the certificate of a registered agency for violations of this title after an opportunity for a hearing and review by the United States court of appeals. Provides penalties of up to $2,000 or imprisonment of not more than two years, or both, for any knowing and willful violations of this title. Provides that effective on and after January 1, 1974, no State or subdivision thereof shall adopt or enforce any law regulating, or setting any standards with respect to, the activity of engaging in the business of conducting a travel agency. Provides that the provisions of this Act shall be in addition to, and not in lieu of, the rules, regulations and orders of any other Federal agency which may by law regulate carriers of air or steamship carriers.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Requires that, under the Truth in Lending Act, a finance charge may not be imposed under an open end credit plan for any period unless a statement of the outstanding balance upon which the finance charge for that period is based is mailed at least twenty-one days prior to the date by which payment must be made in order to avoid imposition of that finance charge. (Adds 15 U.S.C. 1637(d))
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Provides that for purposes of the provision authorizing the payment of a transferred Federal employee's expenses for the sale of an old residence and purchase of a new home, the old and new official duty stations of the employee shall be determined without regard to one or more intervening posts of duty in a combat zone if the employee volunteers to serve at such intervening posts and if his aggregate service at such intervening posts does not exceed eighteen months. ((Amends 50 U.S.C. 5724a(a)(4))
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Provides that, whenever the President finds it necessary in the interest of the United States commitments abroad to provide facilities and services for the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States in foreign areas, he may authorize the Secretary of Defense, under such regulations as the Secretary may prescribe, to cooperate with and assist the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States in establishing and providing those facilities and services.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
National Health Insurance Act - Title I: Benefits and Eligibility - Establishes a program of personal health services including medical, dental, podiatric home-nursing, hospital, and auxiliary services for eligible individuals. Sets forth the eligibility requirements for such benefits generally so that all employed or self-employed individuals entitled to old age and survivors benefits under the Social Security Act are covered. Permits benefits to be provided for "noninsured" needy and other uncovered individuals when reimbursements are made by public agencies. Provides that medical services consist of: (1) general medical services such as can be rendered by a physician engaged in the general or family practice of medicine, including preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic care and periodic medical examinations; and (2) specialist services rendered by a physician who is a specialist in the class of services rendered. Provides that such services may be rendered at the office, home, hospital, or elsewhere, as necessary. Provides that medical, hospital, and other personal health services shall be made available as soon as practicable. Allows eligible individuals for personal health services freedom to select the physician or other person of his choice to render such services. Title II: Participation of Physicians, Dentists, Nurses, Hospitals, and Others - Provides that any individual who is a physician, dentist, or podiatrist legally authorized in a State to render any services included as general medical, dental, or podiatric services shall be deemed qualified to render such services in that State for purposes of this Act. Directs that any such individual who is found to possess skill and experience of a degree and kind sufficient to meet standards established for a class of specialist services shall be deemed qualified to receive compensation for specialist services of such class benefits under this Act. Authorizes the National Health Insurance Board, after consultation with the Advisory Council, to establish standards as to the special skills and experience required to qualify an individual to render each such class of specialist services under this Act, and to receive compensation for such specialist services. Sets forth requirements for participation in the program and the method and amount of payments for services. Title III: Local Administration - Provides for the administration of personal health service benefits through local area committees under plans prepared by the State. Sets forth requirements for State plans. Provides that, in order that personal health service benefits may be made available promptly and in a manner best adapted to local practices, conditions, and needs, responsibility for administration of the benefits provided under this Act in the several local health-service areas shall be decentralized as fully as practicable to local administrative committees or local administrative officers, acting with the advice and assistance, as provided in this title, of local professional committees and, in the case of local administrative officers, the advice and assistance of local area committees. Provides that health-service areas of a State shall be those so designated in the State plan of operations. Establishes a local area committee in each health service area to perform the functions of this Act and to formulate the administration of policies for this Act. Title IV: State Administration - Provides that it is the intent of Congress that the benefits provided under this Act be administered wherever possible by the several States, in accordance with plans of operations submitted and approved as provided in this title, and in each State insofar as feasible by the same State agency which administers, or supervises the administration of, the State's general public health and maternal and child health programs. Provides that the Board shall approve any State plan and any modification thereof submitted by the State which it finds complies with various provisions pertaining to State plans of operation. Declares that no change in a State plan shall be required within one year after initial approval thereof, or within one year after any change thereafter required therein, by reason of any change in the regulations or standards prescribed pursuant to this Act, except with the consent of the State or in accordance with further action by Congress. Title V: National Health Insurance Board; National Advisory Medical Policy Council; General Administrative Provisions - Establishes in the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare a National Health Insurance Board, to be composed of five members, three of whom shall be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, and the other two of whom shall be the Surgeon General of the Public Health Service and the Commissioner of Social Security, to assist in carrying out the provisions of this Act. Provides that, during his term of membership on the Board, no appointed member shall engage in any other business, vocation, or employment. Establishes a National Advisory Medical Policy Council to consist of the Chairman of the Board, who shall serve as Chairman of the Advisory Council ex officio, and sixteen members appointed by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. Provides that at least eight of the sixteen appointed members shall be individuals who are familiar with the need for personal health services in urban or rural areas and who are representative of the interests of individuals eligible for benefits under this Act, and at least six of the members shall be individuals who are outstanding in the medical or other professions concerned with the provision of services provided under this Act and who are representative of the individuals, organizations, and other persons by whom personal health services will be provided. Title VI: Eligibility Determinations, Complaints, Hearings, and Judicial Review - Provides that the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, through such units of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare as he may determine, shall upon his own initiative or upon application of any individual make determinations as to the eligibility of individuals for benefits under this Act. Provides that whenever requested by any individual determined by the Secretary not to be eligible for benefits for any period, or by a dependent of any such individual, the Secretary shall give such individual or such dependent reasonable notice and opportunity for a hearing with respect to such determination and on the basis of the evidence adduced at the hearings shall affirm, modify, or reverse his determination. Provides for judicial review of adverse decisions by the Secretary. Title VII: Application of Act to Individuals Covered Under Medicare Program - Provides that any individual who is entitled to hospital insurance benefits under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, or to supplementary medical insurance benefits under the insurance program of the Social Security Act, during any benefit year or part thereof in which he is otherwise eligible for benefits under this Act which may be made available to him as benefits under this Act shall be limited to those services for which he is ineligible under title XVIII of the Social Security Act. Requires the Secretary of HEW to study and report on the interrelationship of the national health insurance program under this Act and under title XVIII of the Social Security Act. Title VIII: Fiscal Provisions - Creates, on the books of the Treasury of the United States, a separate account to be known as the "Personal Health Services Account". Provides that funds in the account not required for current withdrawals shall be invested by the Secretary of the Treasury in the types of obligations which may be acquired, under section 201 of the Social Security Act, by the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund. Makes funds in the account available for all expenditures necessary or appropriate to carry out this Act. Title IX: Miscellaneous Provisions - Defines such terms as "wages", "employment", "benefit Year", "quarter", and "person", as used in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Runaway Youth Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to establish local institutions to deal primarily with youth runaways outside the traditional law enforcement, juvenile justice system. Requires that grants be made on the basis of the number of runaways in the community and the present availability of services for runaways. States that priority be given to private organizations who have had experience dealing with runaways. Establishes the requirements which runaway houses must meet to be eligible to receive grants: (1) location in an area frequented or reachable by runaways; (2) a maximum capacity of not more than 20; and (3) the development of adequate plans to insure proper contact with the child's parents and with the police, safe return of the runaway, and adequate after-care counseling. Provides that each proposed grantee must keep statistical surveys of their clients and report them annually to the Secretary. Requires that a plan meet the above requirements before it may be approved by the Secretary. Provides that nothing in this Act shall give the Federal Government and its agencies control over the staffing and personnel decisions of facilities receiving Federal funds, except that the staffs of such facilities must meet the standards under this Act. Requires the Secretary to report annually to Congress on the effectiveness of runaway houses. Includes Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, Guam, and the Virgin Islands in the term "State". Authorizes $10,000,000 annually for fiscal years 1974, 1975, and 1976 to carry out the provisions of this title. Requires that the Federal share of the cost of constructing such houses be not more than fifty percent. Establishes the Federal share of the cost of renovating existing structures, providing counseling services and staff training, and general operating expenses at ninety percent. Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to conduct research on all aspects of the runaway problem. Authorizes $500,000 to be spent for this purpose and requires the Secretary to report to Congress not later than June 30, 1974.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to construct and provide shoreside facilities for the education and convenience of visitors to the United States Ship Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor, and to transfer responsibility for their operation and maintenance to the National Park Service. Authorizes to be appropriated $2,500,000 for the planning, construction, equipping, and furnishing of such facilities, such sum to be in addition to the regular budgetary appropriations for the Department of the Navy.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Provides that no person shall be a naturalized citizen of the United States on his own petition unless he demonstrates a simple understanding of the English language, including an ability to read, write, and speak words in ordinary usage in the English language. States that these requirements shall not apply to any applicant who is otherwise qualified to be naturalized and who: (1) on the effective date of this Act, is over fifty years of age and has been living in the United States for twenty years; (2) upon filing his petition, is over fifty years of age and can demonstrate an ability to read, write, and speak words in ordinary usage in his own language; (3) upon filing his petition, is over sixty years of age and has been living in the United States for twenty years; or (4) is physically unable to comply with the requirements of this Act. Provides that, except as otherwise provided, no person shall be naturalized as a citizen of the United States upon his own petition unless he demonstrates a knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of the history and the principles and the form of government of the United States. (Amends 8 U.S.C. 1423)
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Establishes, under the National Foundation on the Arts and the Humanities Act, the office of Poet Laureate of the United States. Provides that the Poet Laureate shall be appointed by the President for a term of five years and shall be a poet whose works reflect those qualities and attributes that are associated with the historical heritage, present achievement, and future potential of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Speedy Trial Act - Title I: Speedy Trials - Provides that when a defendant charged with an offense against the United States first appears before the court for the setting of release conditions, the judge shall, after consultation with the counsel for the defendant and the United States Attorney, set a day certain for the trial. Asserts that the trial of a defendant charged with an offense against the United States shall be commenced as follows: (1) within sixty days from the date the defendant is arrested or a summons is issued, except that if an information or indictment is filed, then within sixty days from the date of such filing; (2) if the indictment or information is dismissed upon motion of the defendant and thereafter the defendant is charged with the same crime or a crime based on the same conduct or arising from the same criminal episode, within sixty days from the date the defendant is so charged; or (3) if the defendant is to be tried again following a mistrial, an order for a new trial, or an appeal or collateral attack, within sixty days from the date of the mistrial, order granting a new trial, or remand. Provides that the following periods of delay shall be excluded in computing the time within which the trial of any such offense must commence: (1) any period of delay resulting from other proceedings concerning the defendant, including but not limited to, an examination and hearing on competency, any period of delay resulting from the fact that he is incompetent to stand trial, or resulting from the examination and treatment pursuant to section 2902 of title 28, United States Code, and any period of delay resulting from hearings on pretrial motions, interlocutory appeals, or trials with respect to other charges; (2) any period of delay during which prosecution is deferred by the United States Attorney pursuant to written agreement with the defendant for the purpose of allowing the defendant to demonstrate his good conduct; (3) any period of delay resulting from the absence or unavailability of the defendant; (4) if the information or indictment is dismissed upon motion of the United States Attorney and thereafter a charge is filed against the defendant for the same offense or any offense required to be joined with that offense, any period of delay from the date the charge was dismissed to the date the time limitation would commence to run as to the subsequent charge had there been no previous charge; (5) a reasonable period of delay when the defendant is joined for trial and there is good cause for not granting a severance (in all other cases, the defendant shall be granted a severance so that he may be tried within the time limits applicable to him); (6) any period of delay resulting from a continuance granted at the request of the defendant or his counsel upon a showing of good cause, if such request is made more than fifteen days prior to the date set for trial, but in no event shall any such period of delay be excludable for any period in excess of seven days; (7) any period of delay resulting from a continuance granted at the request of the United States Attorney upon a showing of good cause, if such request is made more than fifteen days priod to the date set for trial, but in no event shall any such period of delay be excludable for any period in excess of seven days; and (8) any other period of delay resulting from a continuance granted at the request of the defendant or his counsel or the United States Attorney upon a finding by the judge that, unless such a continuance is granted, the ends of justice cannot be met. Provides that no such period of delay resulting from a continuance granted by the court in accordance with paragraph (8) shall be excludable under this subsection unless the court, after first having considered the right of the defendant to a speedy trial and the public interest in a prompt disposition of the case, sets forth in writing in the record of the case its reason for granting such continuance. Provides that if a defendant through no fault of his own or his counsel is not brought to trial the information or indictment shall be dismissed on motion of the defendant. Provides that such dismissal shall forever bar prosecution for the offense charged and for any other offense required to be joined with the offense. Declares that failure of the defendant to move for dismissal prior to trial or entry of a plea of guilty shall constitute a waiver of the right to dismissal. Provides that each United States district court, with the approval of the judicial council of the circuit, shall, within 90 days of the effective date of this Act, prepare a plan for the trial or other disposition of offenses. Asserts that each such plan shall be formulated after considering the recommendations of the Federal Judicial Center, the United States Attorney and attorneys experienced in the defense of criminal cases in the district, and shall be filed with the Administrative Office of the United States Courts. Provides that each such plan shall include a description of the procedural techniques, innovations, systems and other methods by which the district court has expedited or intends to expedite the trial or other disposition of criminal cases. Asserts that the plan shall make special provision for the speedy trial of cases at places of holding court where there is no judge continuously resident. Asserts that in the event a district court is unable because of limitations of manpower or resources to implement its plan for the trial or other disposition of criminal cases, its plan shall, with the approval of the judicial council of the circuit, be submitted to the Judicial Conference of the United States, with a copy to the Attorney General, and shall request an extention of the effective date. Provides that, in addition to the information required, each such plan in which an extension is requested shall specify the necessary authorizations and appropriations for additional judges, prosecutors, probation officers, full-time defense counsel, supporting personnel and other resources. Title II: Pretrial Services Agencies - Establishes, on a demonstration basis, in each of five judicial districts, one of which shall be the District of Columbia, a pretrial services agency authorized to maintain effective supervision and control over, and to provide supportive services to, defendants released. Asserts that the districts, other than the District of Columbia, in which such agencies are to be established shall be designated by the Chief Justice of the United States, after consultation with the Attorney General, on the basis of such considerations as the number of criminal cases prosecuted annually in the district, the precentage of defendants in the district presently detained prior to trial, the incidence of crime charged against persons released pending trial and the availability of community resources to implement the conditions of release. Requires the Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts to establish a pretrial services agency in each of the designated districts. Asserts that, after reviewing recommendations of the judges of the District Court to be served by the agency, the Chief Judge of the Court shall appoint a Chief Pretrial Services Officer who shall receive compensation at a rate to be established by the Chief Judge of the Court but not in excess of the rate prescribed for GS-16 by section 5332 of title 5, United States Code. Provides that the Chief Pretrial Services Officer shall be responsible for the direction and supervision of the agency and may appoint and fix the compensation, subject to the provisions of Part III of title 5, United States Code, of such other personnel as may be necessary to staff each agency and may appoint such experts and consultants as may be necessary, pursuant to section 3109 of title 5, United States Code. Provides that the Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts shall annually report to Congress on the accomplishments of the pretrial services agencies, with particular attention to: (1) their effectiveness in reducing crime committed by persons released under this chapter; (2) their effectiveness in reducing the volume and cost of unnecessary pretrial detention; and (3) their effectiveness in improving the operation of such services. Directs the Director to include in his fourth annual report recommendations for any necessary modification or expansion to other districts of these agencies. Authorizes to be appropriated to carry out the provisions of this title for fiscal year 1974, and for each fiscal year thereafter, the sum of $2,000,000.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Authorizes the payment of a per diem to a member of the uniformed services who is assigned to a duty station outside of the United States in a restricted area if, in connection with such assignment, his dependents move to the legal residence of such member and if such residence is in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or a territory or possession of the United States. (Amends 37 U.S.C. 405)
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1973
Freedom of Surveillance Act - Restricts the authority of the Armed Forces to collect, distribute, and store information about civilian political activity and the activity of social or religious groups. Provides for criminal and civil actions for any violations of this Act.
![Official portrait of Sen. Matsunaga, Spark M. [D-HI]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/m000250_200.jpg)