United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1975
Expresses the sense of the Senate that discrimination in international commerce against individuals or institutions on religious, racial or ethnic grounds should not be tolerated. Urges action to be taken to end such discrimination.
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1975
Emergency Marine Fisheries Protection Act - Declares the policy of this Act. Establishes, for the duration of this Act, a fishery zone contiguous to the territorial sea of the United States. Requires that the United States excercise exclusive fishery management responsibility and authority within this contiguous fishery zone. States that the contigous fishery zone has as its inner boundary the outer limits of the territorial sea, and as its seaward boundary a line drawn so that each point on the line is 197 nautical miles from the inner boundary. Provides that the fishery management responsibility and authority of the United States within the contiguous fishery zone of the United Stated shall not include or be construed to extend to highly migratory species, except to the extent such species are not managed pursuant to bilateral or multilateral international fishery agreements. Provides that the fishery management responsibility and authority of the United States with respect to anadromous species, for the duration of this Act, extends to such species wherever found throughout the migratory range of such species. Requires that the United States manage and conserve, and have preferential rights to, fish within the contiguous fishery zone. Provides that the Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of State, after consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury, may authorize fishing within the contiguous fishery zone of the United States, or for anadromous species or both, by citizens of any foreign nation, in accordance with this Act, only if such nation has traditionally engaged in such fishing prior to the date of enactment of this Act. Requires that the allowable level of traditional foreign fishing shall be set upon the basis of the portion of any stock which cannot be harvested by citizens of the United States. Provides that traditional foreign fishing rights shall not be recognized unless any foreign nation claiming such rights demonstrates that it grants similar traditional fishing rights to citizens of the United States within the contiguous fishery zone of such nation. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to establish reasonable fees to be paid by the citizens of foreign nation engaged in exercising recognized foreign fishing rights. Provides that such fees shall be set in an shall be set in an amount sufficient to reimburse amount sufficient to reimburse the United States for administrative expenses incurred pursuant to this Act, and for an equitable share of the management and conservation expenses incurred by the United States in accordance with this Act, including the cost of regulation and enforcement. Establishes a Fisheries Management Council. Empowers such Council to: (1) provide information and expert assistance to States and local or regional fisheries authorities in marine fisheries management and conservation; (2) consult on an ongoing basis (A) with other Federal agencies and departments; (B) with officials of coastal States who are concerned with maring fisheries management and conservation planning; (C) with appropriate officials of other nations which are exercising traditional foreign fishing rights, through the offices of the Secretary of State; and (D) with owners and operators of fishing vessels; (3) to prepare a survey of fisheries subject to the emergency conservation and management authority granted to the United States by this Act, including, but not limited to, depleted stocks and stocks threatened with depletion; and (4) survey, study, and prepare a marine fisheries management plan setting forth the elements of a national management system to conserve and protect fish. Requires the Council submit the marine fisheries management plan adopted by the Council to the Senate Committee on Commerce and the Committee on Commerce and the Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries of the House of Representatives not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act. Directs the Secretary of State, upon the request of and in cooperation with the Secretary, to initiate and conduct negotiations with any foreign nation which is engaged in , or whose citizens are engaged in, fishing in the contiguous fishery zone of the United States or for anadromous species. Provides that the Secretary of State, upon the request of and in cooperative with the Secretary, shall, in addition, initiate and conduct negotiations with any foreign nation in whose contiguous fishery zone or equivalent economic zone citizens of the United States are engaged in fishing or with respect to anadromous species as to which such nation asserts management responsibility and authority and for which citizens of the United States fish. Provides that the purpose of such negotiations shall be enter into international fishery agreements on a bilateral or multilateral basis to effectuate the purposes, policy, and provisions of this Act. Sets forth prohibitions and penalties under this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of funds to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1975
Provides that the Civil Service Commission shall continue to make grants for up to 75 percent of the cost of approved programs under the Intergovernmental Personnel Act until October 1, 1978 (present provisions require that the Commission pay only 50 percent of the grants commencing in 1975). Authorizes the Commission to pay up to 75 percent of the salaries of Government Service fellows (presently 25 percent). Requires that, as a condition of award of fellowships, the recipient must enter into a written agreement to serve with the jurisdiction concerned for a period of time equal to the length of the fellowship. Provides that Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands shall be eligible to participate in the grant program. States that the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands is an eligible jurisdiction for the purpose of intergovernmental mobility assignments.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1975
Public Buildings Cooperative Use Act - Directs the Administrator of General Services to (1) acquire and utilize space in suitable buildings of historic or architectural significance, (2) give preference to the purchase and use of space in other existing buildings, (3) encourage the location of commercial, cultural, educational, and recreational facilities and activities within or near public buildings, (4) provide facilities which encourage pedestrian traffic around, into, and through public buildings, and (5) encourage the public use of public buildings. Requires that whenever the Administrator undertakes a survey of the public buildings needs of the Federal Government within a geographical area, he shall contract with the Chairman of the National Trust for Historic Preservation to identify any existing buildings within such geographical areas which are of architectural or historical interest and which would be suitable, whether or not in need of repair, alteration, or addition, for acquisition or purchase to meet the public buildings needs of the Federal Government.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1975
Expresses the Senate's disapproval of the President's September 20, 1974, proposal deferral of budget authority for water program operations construction grants.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1975
Authorizes each Senator serving on a committee to hire staff to assist him in his duties as a member of each committee on which such Senator serves. Allows each Senator serving as chairman of any subcommittee or ranking minority member of any subcommittee to hire staff to assist him in his duties. States that individuals so appointed shall be in addition to employees otherwise authorized.
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1975
Requests the President to proclaim the period from February 16 to March 15, 1975, as "Energy Conservation Month". Directs the President to publicize the need for energy conservation. Requests the President to report to Congress by March 31, 1975, steps taken to promote energy conservation and recommendations for a continuing program. Directs the President to report monthly to the American people and Congress the state of energy resources.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1975
Watergate Reorganization and Reform Act - Title I: Establishment of Government Offices - Establishes, as an independent establishment of the Government, the Office of the Public Attorney, under the direction of the Public Attorney, appointed by three retired courts of appeals judges designated by the Chief Justice of the United States. States that no individual may serve as Publid Attorney unless agreeing not to occupy any popularly elected office under the United States or to accept any other employment in the Government for five years after termination of services as the Public Attorney. Directs the Public Attorney to investigate and prosecute; (1) allegations of corruption in the administration of the laws by the executive branch of the Government; (2) cases referred by the Attorney General because of actual or potential conflicts of interest; (3) criminal cases referred to him by the Federal Election Commission; and (4) allegations of violations of Federal laws relating to campaigns and elections for elective office. Requires the Public Attorney to notify the Attorney Genral of the initiation of an investigation or proceeding with respect to such matters. Limits the Attorney General's activities in any such matters without prior written approval and requires him to inform the Public Attorney of any investigation which falls under the Public Attorney's jurisdiction. Enumerates the powers of the Public Attorney, including; (1) to issue appropriate instructions to the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other domestic investigative agencies of the United States; (2) to receive appropriate national security clearnaces; and (3) to exercise all other powers as to the conduct of criminal investigations, prosecutions (including prosecutions for perjury committed in the course of any investigation or judicial or legislative hearing with respect to any matter within his jurisdiction), civil proceedings, and appeals within his jurisdiction that would otherwise be vested exclusively in the Attorney General and the United States Attorney. Details the administrative powers of the Public Attorney. Make unlawful the disclosure of specified confidential information to persons who are likely to or have come the subject of an investigation by the Publid Attorney, with enumerated limitations, and imposes criminal penalties for so doing. Establishes within the Congress a Congressional Legal Service, under the direction of the Congressional Legal Counsel appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate. Enumerates the duties of the Congressional Legal Counsel, including; to render, upon request of either House of Congress, a joint committee of Congress, any committee of either House of Congress, at least three Senators, or twelve members of the House of Representatives, legal opinions upon questions arising under the Constitution and laws of the United States. Authorizes to be appointed such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions relating to the Office of the Congressional Legal Counsel and such sums as may be necessary for the performance of the duties of the Congressional Legal Counsel under this title. Title II: Government Personnel - Requires an individual who holds the office of President or Vice President at any time during the year or file a report with the Comptroller General, not later than May of the following year, containing a full and complete statement of; (1) the amount of each tax paid; (2) the amount and source of each item of income; (3) the identity of each asset held by him; (4) any transaction in securities of any business; (5) all transactions in commodities by him; (6) any purchase or sale, other than the purchase or sale of his personal residence, of real property; and (7) any expenditure made by another individual for the personal benefit of him or his spouse. Provides that all such reports filed shall be maintained by the Comptroller General as public records. Prohibits campaign solicitations by appointees confirmed by the Senate and executive office personnel. Provides that any individual employed by any agency of the Executive Office of the President, who is compensated from appropriated funds, shall not engage in any investigative or intelligence gathering activity concerning national or domestic security unless specifically authorized to do so by statute. Increases the penalties for interference with elections by Government employees. Requires an annual disclosure of requests from an officer, including the President, or employee of the Executive Office for information or an investigation on the tax liavility of any taxpayer. Requires that all such requests from the Executive Office of the President be in writing. Title III: Congressional Activities - Provides that the Direct Court for the District of Columbia shall have original jurisdiction, without regard to the sum or value of the matter in controversy, over any civil action brought by either House of Congress, any committee or joint committee, to enforce or secure a declaration concerning the validity of any subpena or order issued by such House or committee, or by any subcommittee of such committee, to any officer, including the President and Vice President, or any employee of the executive branch of the United States Government to secure the production of information, documents, or other materials. Makes provisions governing perjury before Congressional committees and testimony before Senate committees. Title IV: Federal Election Campaign Activities, Contributions, and Criminal Sanctions - Repeals provisions of the Internal Revenue Code relating to the deduction for contributions to candidates for public office. Provides that whoever embezzels, steals, or by fraud or deception obtains from any individual who has publicly declared his intent to seek nomination for election, or election, to any Federal office, any campaign materials, documents, or papers which are not available for public dissemination and which belong to any such person shall be fined not more than $5,000, or imprisoned not more than five years, or both. Imposes criminal penalties for; (1) the use of funds to finance violation of provisions of Federal election laws; (2) contributions by specified recipients of Federal funds; (3) the fraudulent infiltration of Federal election campaigns for espionage and sabotage purposes; (4) misrepresentations of a candidate for elective office; and (5) crimes affecting elections. Provides that whoever intentionally obstructions, impairs, or perverts the Government of the United States, or any department or agency thereof, in any manner, shall be fined not more than $10,000 or imprisoned not more than five years or both.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1975
Authorizes additional expenditures of up to $1,892,000 by the Senate Committee on the Budget for inquiries and investigations through February 29, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1975
Provides that messages received in the Senate and bills and resolutions introduced with respect to such messages shall be referred concurrently to the Appropriations Committee, to the Budget Committee, and to any other appropriate authorizing committee. States that if any committee to which a bill or resolution has been referred recommends its passage, the Appropriations Committee shall report that bill or resolution together with its views and reports of the Budget and any appropriate authorizing committees to the Senate within specified time intervals.
United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1975
Directs the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration to provide for radio and television coverage of proceedings in the Senate Chamber during the first session of the Ninety-fourth Congress, except for closed-door sessions. Requires video tapes of such broadcasts to be kept and made available to commercial broadcast stations. Provides for monitors of such broadcasts in various offices and for audio monitors in members' offices, if desired.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1975
Joint Committee on Intelligence Oversight Act - Establishes the Joint Committee on Intelligence Oversight, consisting of seven members from each House, to conduct a continuing study and investigation of the activities of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the United States Secret Service, the Defense Intelligence Agency, the National Security Agency, and all other departments and agencies insofar as their activities pertain to intelligence gathering. Prohibits the appropriation of funds for intelligence activities unless such funds have been specifically authorized by legislation enacted after enactment of this Act. Requires that legislation pertaining to intelligence activities be reported from such joint committee. Grants subpena power to the chairman of such joint committee.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1975
Provides for the striking of, and furnishing to the Armerican Revolution Bicentennial Administration, not more than 25,000 medals commemorating the contributions of persons of various ethnic backgrounds who contributed to the founding of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1975
Provides that no new tariff, fee or other charge, no increase in existing tariffs, fees or other charges, and no new quota or other limitation on imports of crude oil or petroleum products other than those in effect on January 1, 1975, may be imposed unless: (1) such action is specifically authorized by law enacted after the date of enactment of this joint resolution; or (2) the specific action proposed to be taken is submitted to both Houses of the Congress. States that if such action is disapproved by either House within the thirty-day review period, no officer or agency shall have authority to take any action inconsistent with the provisions of this joint resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 17 January 1975
Consumer Protection Act - States that it is the purpose of this Act to promote protection of consumers with respect to specified areas, including: (1) the safety, quality, purity, potency, healthfulness, durability, performance, repairability, effectiveness, dependability, availability, and cost of any real or personal property or tangible or intangible goods, services, or credit; and (2) the preservation of consumer choice and a competitive market. Establishes as an independent agency in the executive branch the Agency for Consumer Advocacy. Directs the Administrator of the Agency to prepare and submit an annual report simultaneously to the Congress and the President, not later than April 1 of each year. Specifies the content of such report, including the Agency's activities and court actions affecting the interests of consumers. Directs the Agency to advise the Congress and the President on matters affecting the interests of consumers and to protect and promote the interests of the people of the United States as consumers of goods and services. Enumerates the functions of the Administrator, including the following: (1) to represent the interests of consumers before Federal agencies and courts; (2) to conduct and support research, studies, and testing; (3) to 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 interests of consumers; and (4) to publish material developed in carrying out this Act to inform consumers of matters of interest to them. States that whenever the Administrator determines that the result of any Federal agency proceeding may substantially affect an interest of consumers, he may as of right intervene as a party or otherwise participate for the purpose of representing an interest of consumers. Provides that whenever the Administrator receives any complaint which discloses: (1) an apparent violation of law relating to an interest of consumers; or (2) a commercial, trade, or other practice which is detrimental to an interest of consumers; he shall transmit such complaint to any Federal, State, or local agency which has the authority to enforce any relevant law or to take appropriate action. Directs the Administrator to maintain a public document room containing, for public inspection and copying, an up-to-date listing of all consumer complaints of any significance which the Agency has received, as arranged in meaningful and useful categories, together with annotations of actions taken in response thereto. Authorizes the Administrator to conduct studies, and to obtain data and information from persons engaged in a trade, business, or industry which substantially affects interstate commerce and whose activities he determines may substantially affect an interest of consumers. Stipulates that the Administrator shall not have the power to require the production or disclosure of any data or other information under this Act from any small business. Provides that, upon written request by the Administrator, each Federal agency is directed to furnish access to all documents which the Administrator deems necessary for the performance of his functions. Sets forth limitations on the disclosure of any information obtained pursuant to any authority conferred by this Act. Expresses the sense of the Congress that small business enterprises should have their varied needs considered by all levels of government in the implementation of the procedures provided for throughout this Act. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the provisions of this Act not to exceed $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1976, not to exceed $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, and not to exceed $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1978. Provides for the transfer of employees and property of the Consumer Product Information Coordinating Center in the General Services Administration to the Agency. Requires Federal agencies to issue standards governing public participation in agency proceedings.
United States · United States Congress · 17 January 1975
National Trust for the Preservation of Historic Ships Act - Provides that in order to acquire, restore, and put on display ships of national interest and importance in the history of this Nation, and to identify and focus public attention and support for such acquisitions, restoration, and display, there is hereby created a charitable, educational, and nonprofit corporation, to be known as the National Trust for the Preservation of Historic Ships. Authorizes the Historic Ships Trust to acquire, with donated, appropriated, or other funds, ships of national interest and importance in the technical, commercial, and cultural maritime history of the United States and to restore and display such ships. Designates the members of a temporary board of trustees for the Historic Ships Trust. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution to establish a suitable advisory commission. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Historic Ships Trust for fiscal year 1976 and for each of the next following four fiscal years the sum of $1,000,000.
United States · United States Congress · 17 January 1975
Establishes a select committee of the Senate to be known as the Select Committee to Study Governmental Operations with Respect to Intelligence Activities. States that it shall be the function of the select committee to conduct an investigation of all matters relating to: (1) the operations of the United States Government with respect to domestic and foreign intelligence activities; and (2) the past effect and future role of such activities of agencies of the United States Government within the United States and overseas. Sets forth the powers of the Committee. Requires the committee to make a final report to the Senate on its findings and recommendations within two years. Stipulates that the expenses of the special committee shall not exceed $500,000 from the date this resolution is agreed to through February 28, 1976.
United States · United States Congress · 16 January 1975
Establishes in the Congress a Joint Committee on the Continuing Study of the Need to Reorganize the Departments and Agencies Engaging in Surveillance. Sets forth the membership of the Committee. States that it shall be the function of the joint committee: (1) to make a continuing study of the need to reorganize the departments and agencies of the United States engaged in the investigation or surveillance of individuals, (2) to make a continuing study of the intergovermental relationship between the United States and the States insofar as that relationship involves the area of investigation or surveillance of individuals; and (3) to file reports at least annually, and at such other times as the joint committee deems appropriate, with the Senate and the House of Representatives, containing its findings and recommendations with respect to the matters under study by the joint committee. Requires that the joint committee shall, at least annually, receive the testimony under oath, of a representative of every department, agency, instrumentality, or other entity of the Federal Government, which engages in investigations or surveillance of individuals. States that such testimony shall relate to: (1) the full scope and nature of the respective department's agency's instrumentality's, or other entity's investigations or surveillance of individuals; and (2) the criteria, standards, guidelines, or other general basis utilized by each such department, agency, instrumentality, or other entity in determining whether or not investigative or surveillance activities should be initiated, carried out, or maintained. Sets forth the powers of the Committee. Specifies that the provisions of this Act shall not in any way limit or otherwise interfere with the jurisdiction or powers of any committee of the Senate, or the House of Representatives, or of Congress to request or require testimony or the submission of information from any representative of any department, agency, instrumentality, or other entity of the Federal Government.
United States · United States Congress · 16 January 1975
Requires the President and the Vice President, each Member of the Senate and the House of Representatives (including Resident Commissioners and Delegates), candidates for such offices, each civil or military officer of the executive branch of any department or agency thereof, each judge or justice of a court of the United States, and each employee of the legislative, executive, or judicial branch of the Government of the United States or any department or agency thereof who is compensated at a rate in excess of $25,000 per year to file annually with the Comptroller General a financial report. Requires such report to contain a full and complete statement of: (1) the amount and source of each item of income, each item of reimbursement for any expenditure, and each gift or aggregate of gifts from one source which exceeds $100 in amount or value; (2) the value of each asset held by him, or by him and his spouse jointly, and the amount of each liability owned by him, or by him and his spouse jointly, as of the close of the preceding calendar year; (3) all dealings in securities or commodities by him, or by him and his spouse jointly, or by any person acting on his behalf or pursuant to his direction during the preceding calendar year; and (4) all purchases and sales of real property or any interest therein by him, or by him and his spouse jointly, or by any person acting on his behalf or pursuant to his direction, during the preceding calendar year. Provides that all reports filed under this Act shall be maintained by the Comptroller General as public records which, under such reasonable regulations as he shall prescribe, shall be available for inspection by members of the public. Sets forth penalties for violations of the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1975
Requires, under the Congressional Budget Act of 1974, the Congressional Office of the Budget to prepare fiscal notes for bills and joint resolutions. States that such fiscal notes shall contain an estimate of the costs which would be incurred, or the savings which would be realized in carrying out such bill, resolution, or amendment in the fiscal year in which it is to become effective and in the four fiscal years following such fiscal year.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1975
Government in the Sunshine Act - Title I: Congressional Procedures - Requires each meeting of each standing, select, or special committee or subcommittee of the Senate and House of Representatives, including meetings to conduct hearings, to be open to the public. Provides that a portion or portions of such meetings may be closed to the public if the committee or subcommittee determines by vote of a majority of a quorum of the members present that the matters to be discussed or the testimony to be taken: (1) will disclose matters necessary to be kept secret in the interests of national defense or the confidential conduct of the foreign policy of the United States; (2) will relate solely to matters of committee staff personnel or internal staff management; or (3) will tend to charge with crime or misconduct, or to disgrace any individual, or will represent a clearly unwarranted invasion of the privacy of any individual (unless it relates to any government officer or employee with respect to his official duties or employment); (4) will disclose information pertaining to any investigation conducted for law enforcement purposes, with specified limitations; or (5) will disclose information relating to the trade secrets or financial or commercial information pertaining specifically to a given person. Directs each standing, select, or special committee or subcommittee of the Senate and House of Representatives to make a public announcement of the date, place, and subject matter of each meeting at least one week before such meeting unless the committee or subcommittee determines by a vote of the majority of a quorum that committee business requires that such meeting be called at an earlier date, in which case the committee shall make public announcement of the date, place and subject matter of such meeting at the earliest practicable opportunity. Provides that a complete transcript shall be made of each meeting of each standing, select, or special committee or subcommittee. Provides that a copy of each such transcript shall be made available for public inspection within seven days and additional copies shall be furnished to any person at the actual cost of duplication. Provides that all the aforegoing requirements and exceptions applicable to the meetings of the committees and subcommittees of the House and Senate shall also be applicable to each meeting of a committee of conference. Establishes procedures to review and reverse any committee and subcommittee vote to close a meeting to the public or to delete from the publicly available copy a portion of a meeting transcript. Title II: Agency Procedures - Requires all meetings of any Federal agency to be open to the public unless a majority of the entire membership of an agency determines the meeting: (1) will disclose matters necessary to be kept secret in the interests of national defense or the confidential conduct of the foreign policy of the United States; (2) will relate solely to individual agency personnel or to internal agency office management and administration or financial auditing; (3) will tend to charge with crime or misconduct, or to disgrace, any person, or will represent a clearly unwarranted invasion of the privacy of any individual (unless it relates to any government officer or employee with respect to his official duties or employment); (4) will disclose information pertaining to any investigation conducted for law enforcement purposes, with specified limitations; or (5) will disclose information relating to the trade secrets or financial or commercial information pertaining specifically to a given person. Directs each agency to make public announcement of the date, place, and subject matter of each meeting (whether open or closed to the public) at least one week before each meeting unless the agency determines by a vote of the majority of its members that agency business requires that such meetings be called at an earlier date, in which case the agency shall make public announcement of the date, place, and subject matter of such meeting at the earliest practicable opportunity. Provides that a complete transcript, including a list of all persons attending and their affilations, shall be made of each meeting of each agency (whether open or closed to the public). Provides that a copy of each such meeting shall be made available to the public for inspection, and additional copies of any transcript shall be furnished to any person at the actual cost of duplication. Requires each agency to promulgate regulations to implement the requirements of this title. States that any citizen or person resident in the United States may bring a proceeding in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit: (1) to require an agency to promulgate such regulations if such agency has not done so within the time period specified herein; or (2) to set aside agency regulations that are not in accord with the requirements of this title and to require the promulgation of regulations that are in accord with such requirements. Gives the district courts of the United States jurisdiction to enforce the requirements of this title by declaratory judgment, injunctive relief, or otherwise. Provides that such actions shall be brought in the district wherein the plaintiff resides, or has his principal place of business, or where the agency in question has its headquarters. Sets forth provisions governing ex parte communications in agency proceedings.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1975
National Policy and Priorities for Science and Technology Act - Declares that it is the continuing policy and responsibility of the Federal Government to take appropriate measures directed toward achieving various goals, including: (1) a continuing Federal investment in science and technology adequate to the needs of the Nation; and (2) the strengthening of national capabilities for technological planning and policy formulation. Declares it to be the purpose of this Act to promote the effective application of science and technology to the furtherance of national goals by: (1) establishing a Council of Advisors on Science and Technology in the Executive Office of the President to provide a source of scientific and technological analysis and judgment to the President; (2) establishing an Intergovernmental Science and Technology Advisory Committee to foster the application of science and technology to State and regional needs; (3) establishing an Interagency Federal Coordinating Committee on Science and Technology to coordinate agency research and development efforts; and (4) having the President submit an annual Science and Technology Report to the Congress. Title I: Council of Advisors on Science and Technology - Establishes in the Executive Office of the President a Council of Advisors on Science and Technology. Directs the Council to annually appraise progress in science and technology in relation to the needs of the Nation and, taking account of the state of the economy through consultation with the Council of Economic Advisors, to determine the desired level of Federal investment in science and technology for the fiscal year immediately following the fiscal year in which such determination is made, and make appropriate recommendations to the President and Congress. States that the Council shall serve as a source of scientific and technological analysis and judgment for the President with respect to major policies, plans, and programs of science and technology of the Federal Government. Requires the President to transmit annually to the Congress, beginning October 15, 1976, a Science and Technology Report which shall set forth: (1) a review of development of national significance in science and technology; (2) the significant effects of current and foreseeable trends in science and technology on the social, economic, and other requirements of the Nation; (3) a review and appraisal of selected science and technology-related programs, policies, and activities of the Federal Government; (4) an inventory and projection of critical and emerging national problems the resolution of which might be substantially assisted by the application of science and technology; (5) the identification and assessment of scientific and technological measures that can contribute to the resolution of such problems, in light of the related social, economic, political, and institutional considerations; (6) the existing and projected scientific and technological resources, including specialized manpower, that could contribute to the resolution of such problems; (7) recommendations for legislation on science and technology-related programs and policies that will contribute to the resolution of such problems; and (8) recommendations with regard to Federal investment level and priorities in science and technology, as made by the Council pursuant to this Act. Title II: Federal Coordinating Committee for Science and Technology - Establishes the Federal Coordinating Committee for Science and Technology. States that the Committee shall consider problems and developments in the fields of science and technology and related activities affecting more than one Federal agency, and shall recommend policies and other measures: (1) to provide more effective planning and administration of Federal scientific and technological programs; (2) to identify research needs including areas of research requiring additional emphasis; (3) to achieve more effective utilization of the scientific and technological resources and facilities of Federal agencies, including the elimination of unnecessary duplication; and (4) to further international cooperation in science and technology. Abolishes the Federal Council for Science and Technology. Title III: National Science Foundation - Directs the National Science Foundation to recommend and encourage the pursuit of national policies designed to foster research and education in science and engineering, and the application of scientific and technical knowledge to the solution of national problems. Requires the Foundation to initiate an educational program of continuing education in science and engineering in order to enable scientists and engineers who have been engaged in their careers for at least five years to pursue courses of study designed to: (1) provide them with new knowledge, techniques, and skills in their special fields; or (2) acquire new knowledge, techniques, and skills in other fields which will enable them to render more valuable contributions to the Nation. Title IV: State and Regional Science and Technology Programs - Establishes, within the National Science Foundation, an Intergovernmental Science and Technology Advisory Committee. Provides that the Committee shall advise and assist the Foundation in: (1) identifying and defining civilian problems at the State, regional, and local levels and the environment in which solution to these problems ought to be provided; (2) identifying areas of highest priority for study, assessment, and development of policy alternatives by the Foundation under this title; and (3) identifying and fostering ways to facilitate the transfer and utilization of results of civilian research and development activities so as to maximize the application of science and technology to civilian needs. Authorizes the Director of the National Science Foundation to make grants not to exceed $100,000 to any State to pay a part of the cost of establishing an Office of State Science and Technology. Title V: General Provisions - Authorizes appropriations to carry out the various provisions and titles of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1975
Provides that the charge to a household for its food stamp allotment under the Food Stamp Act of 1964 shall not exceed the lesser of (1) the level established as of January 1, 1975, or (2) 25 percent of the household's income. Provide that effective July 1, 1975, households in which all members receive supplemental security income benefits under the Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled program of the Social Security Act, or households in which all members are included in a federally aided public assistance or general assistance grant shall be certified for participation in the food stamp program under this Act. States that certification of all other households shall be based on the uniform national standards for eligibility required to be established under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1975
Provides that on or after January 14, 1975, no new tariffs, fees, or quotas on imports of crude oil or petroleum products shall be effective unless authorized by law enacted after the date of enactment of this resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1975
Provides that all meetings of Senate committees shall be open to the public, unless the members of such committee determine by majority vote that the matters to be discussed or the testimony to be taken involve specified matters, including the following: (1) will disclose matters necessary to be kept secret in the interests of national defense or the confidential conduct of the foreign relations of the United States; (2) will relate solely to matters of committee staff personnel or internal staff management or procedure; or (3) will tend to charge an individual with crime or misconduct, to disgrace or injure the professional standing of an individual, or otherwise to expose an individual to public contempt or obloquy, or will represent a clearly unwarranted invasion of the privacy of an individual.
United States · United States Congress · 15 January 1975
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President submit to the Congress his proposal for a tariff on imported oil for appropriate congressional study and action.
United States · United States Congress · 14 January 1975
Provides under the Standing Rules of the Senate, that if at any time a motion signed by sixteen Senators, to bring to a close the debate upon any measure, motion, or other matter pending before the Senate, or the unfinished business, is presented to the Senate, the Presiding Officer shall at once state the motion to the Senate, and one hour after the Senate meets on the following calendar day but one, he shall lay the motion before the Senate and direct that the Secretary call the roll, and upon the ascertainment that a quorum is present, the Presiding Officer shall, without debate, submit to the Senate by a yea-and-nay vote the question of whether it is the sense of the Senate that the debate shall be brought to a close. States that if that question be decided in the affirmative by three-fifths of the Senators present and voting, then said measure, motion, or other matter pending before the Senate, or the unfinished business, shall be the unfinished business to the exclusion of all other business until disposed of.
United States · United States Congress · 5 December 1974
Natural Gas Agricultural Priority Act - Provides, under the Natural Gas Act, a priority system for specified agricultural uses of natural gas. Directs the Federal Power Commission to prohibit any interruption or curtailment of natural gas and take such other steps as are necessary to assure as soon as possible the availability in interstate commerce of sufficient quantities of natural gas for use as a raw material feedstock or process fuel in the production of fertilizer, animal feed grade chemicals, essential agricultural chemicals, and for use in agricultural crop drying. Defines "sufficient quantities of natural gas" for purposes of this Act. Provides that the rule implemented by the Commission shall also apply with respect to the availability of natural gas sold in intrastate commerce in any State which has not, within ninety days, adopted a rule to implement the purposes of the first provision of this Act. Directs the Commission to, by rule, prohibit boiler fuel use of natural gas and propane in interstate and intrastate commerce not contracted for prior to the date of enactment of this Act by users other than residential or small commercial users unless, upon petition by a user, the Commission determines that enumerated criteria are met.
United States · United States Congress · 4 December 1974
Provides that advances of money under any appropriation for the Forest Service may be made to the Forest Service by authority of the Secretary of Agriculture for the control of forest insects and diseases in accord with the applicable provisions of the Forest Pest Control Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 December 1974
Intergovernmental Emergency Heating Fuel Assistance Act - Declares it to be the policy of the United States to provide financial assistance payments to the States to help them pay for assistance to low-income families who cannot afford the cost of heating their homes this winter. Authorizes the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration to make grants to States for assisting families with annual incomes of $8,000 or less to meet the high cost of acquiring heating fuel during the present energy emergency. Authorizes appropriations of $75,000,000 for fiscal year 1975 for the purpose of making such grants. Directs the Administrator to allot to each State an amount equal to the amount appropriated under this Act multiplied by the ratio obtained by multiplying the temperature factor of the State by the number of eligible families in the State and then dividing that product by the sum of such products for all States.
United States · United States Congress · 4 December 1974
Emergency Unemployment Compensation Act - Provides that, for the purposes of the Federal-State Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 1970, there is a State "emergency on" indicator for a week if there is a State or National "emergency on" indicator for such a week. Provides, for the same purposes, that there is a State "emergency off" indicator for a week if there is both a State and National "emergency off" indicator for such week. States that, with respect to the period which begins January 1, 1975, no emergency compensation shall be payable after a specified time pursuant to the provisions of the Federal-State Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 1970 relating to the payment of extended compensation. Changes the rate of insured unemployment definitive of a national "on" indicator from 4.5 to 4 percent for all States. Provides that there shall be paid to the States 100 percent of the sharable extended compensation and sharable regular compensation paid to individuals under State law.
United States · United States Congress · 25 November 1974
Tax Reform and Relief Act - Title I: Tax Relief for Low-and Middle-Income Taxpayers - States that at the election of the taxpayer, for taxable years beginning after December 31, 1974, there shall be allowed, as a credit, an amount equal to $175 multiplied by the number of exemptions to which the taxpayer is entitled under section 151 of the Internal Revenue Code. Requires that such credit shall not exceed the tax imposed for the taxable year. Sets forth a special rule for exemptions for the taxable year 1974. Provides that there shall be allowed to a taxpayer who is an eligible individual as a credit an amount equal to a specified percentage of the social security taxes imposed on him and his employer with respect to wages received by the taxpayer during that year. States that the amount of the credit allowable to a taxpayer shall not exceed an amount equal to 10 percent of so much of his wages as does not exceed $4,000 received by that individual during that year with respect to employment, and that the amount of the credit shall be reduced by one-fourth of the amount by which a taxpayer's income exceeds $4,000. Provides that a taxpayer may receive an advance refund of the credit allowable to him not more frequently than quarterly by filing an election for such refund with the Secretary. States that if the taxpayer elects to base his claim for refund on social security taxes imposed on him, his spouse, and their employers, the election shall be a joint election signed by the taxpayer and his spouse. Title II: Amendments to Increase Revenues - Provides for the termination of special tax treatment for a Domestic International Sales Corporation (DISC). Imposes an excise tax on the windfall profits from domestic crude oil removed from the premises on every person entitled to a deduction for depletion with respect to the crude oil. States that each person liable for such tax shall be allowed, as a credit against such tax, an amount equal to such person's plowback investment for such taxable period. Defines "windfall profit" as the excess of the removal price over the adjusted base price. Sets forth provisions and regulations governing the imposition and collection of the windfall profits tax on crude oil. Provides, for a gradual phaseout of the percentage depletion allowance for domestic oil and natural gas production. Specifies special rules governing the taxation of foreign oil and gas income. Title III: Increases Incentive for Expanded Investment - Provides for an increase in the investment tax credit for expanded investment. Defines "expanded investment" as the amount by which the qualified investment of the taxpayer for such year exceeds the average amount of qualified investment of the taxpayer per taxable year, as determined on the 3 most recent previous taxable years, determined without regard to investment credit carryovers and carrybacks.
United States · United States Congress · 11 October 1974
Provides that recipients of Government Service Fellowships under the Intergovernmental Personnel Act of 1970 shall enter into written agreements, enforceable by the government concerned, to serve with such jurisdiction upon the completion of the fellowship for a period equal to the length of the fellowship. States that in the event the recipient fails to carry out such agreement, he shall be liable for payment of all expenses (excluding salary) of such fellowship. Stipulates that any amount for which a recipient becomes liable shall be paid to the jurisdiction concerned within the three-year period beginning on the date he becomes so liable; and shall be available for use by such jurisdiction for advanced education of its employees. Extends coverage of the provisions of the Intergovernmental Personnel Act to Indian tribes and to the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.
United States · United States Congress · 10 October 1974
Establishes $300,000,000,000 as the appropriate upper limit of Federal spending for fiscal year 1975, and requests the President to submit to the Congress within 30 days of the adoption of this resolution the proposed deferrals and rescissions necessary to adhere to this limit.
United States · United States Congress · 8 October 1974
Redesignates the National Historical Publications Commission as the National Historical Publications and Records Commission. Increases the membership of such Commission, and increases the authorization of appropriations for such Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 3 October 1974
Social Services Amendments - Authorizes necessary appropriations each fiscal year for payments to States for provision of social services directed toward the goal of: (1) achieving or maintaining economic self-support to prevent, reduce, or eliminate dependency; (2) preventing or remedying neglect, abuse, or exploitation of children and adults unable to protect their own interests, or preserving, rehabilitating, or reuniting families; (3) preventing or reducing inappropriate institutional care by providing for community-based care, home-based, or other forms of less intensive care, or; (4) securing referral or admission for institutional care when other forms of care are not appropriate. Requires that 50 percent of such payments to States be for provision of services to individuals who are receiving (or are eligible to receive) aid under the Aid to Needy Families with Children, Supplemental Security Income, and Medicaid programs of the Social Security Act. Prohibits payments to States for aid to individuals with incomes above specified levels. Requires that expenditure by States under this Act for child day care services be for day care services which meet the Federal interagency day care requirements as approved by the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare and the Office of Economic Opportunity. Prohibits, with specified exceptions, State expenditures under this Act for services to individuals living in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, intermediate care facilities, prisons, or foster homes. Prohibits such expenditures for services to individuals eligible for Medicare aid. Requires that States participating in the programs established under this Act report annually on the results of specified evaluations and audits of their participation. Allows suspension of payments to States failing to meet requirements under this Act. Requires States to provide hearings for individuals whose claims to services under this Act are denied, to restrict disclosure of information obtained on individuals pursuant to this Act, and to refrain from imposing durational residency or citizenship requirements upon individuals as a condition to participation in programs under this Act. States that comprehensive plans must be published by States setting forth their programs under this Act which will be pursued in the ensuing year. Requires that such plan include descriptions of objectives, individuals and geographic areas to be served, descriptions of implementation procedures, estimated expenditures, and services to be rendered. Requires annual evaluations of the programs under this Act by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare.
United States · United States Congress · 30 September 1974
Freedom From Surveillance Act - States that the President may, in writing, authorize an application to a judge of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia designated pursuant to specified procedures under this Act, and such judge may grant an order authorizing or approving the interception of wire or oral communications of a foreign power or a foreign agent by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, when such interception will not be inconsistent with the international obligations of the United States and when there is probable cause to believe that such interception is necessary to obtain information which is: (1) necessary to protect the Nation against actual or potential attack or other hostile acts of a foreign power; (2) foreign intelligence information that is essential to the military security or national defense of the United States; or (3) necessary to protect military security or national defense information against foreign intelligence activities. Provides that such authorization of an application to a judge provided for under this Act shall be made by the President personally and shall not be delegated. Specifies the procedures in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia for the designation of judges to hear applications for interception of communications relating to military security or national defense, the form of such applications, the reasons and supporting evidence required for approval of the application, and the form of each court order approving interception of communications. States that, notwithstanding any other provision of this Act, if the President determines that: (1) an emergency situation exists with respect to activities of a foreign power or a foreign agent which poses a substantial threat to the military security or national defense of the United States and that requires a wire or oral communication to be intercepted before an order authorizing such interception can with due diligence be obtained, and (2) there are grounds upon which an order could reasonably be entered under this Act to authorize such interception the President may in advance and in writing authorize the interception of such wire or oral communication by the Federal Bureau of Investigation if an application for an order approving the interception is made in accordance with the provisions of this Act as soon as possible and in any event within forty-eight hours after the interception begins to occur. Provides that any such authorization to intercept shall be made by the President personally and shall not be delegated. Provides that, notwithstanding any other provision of this Act, within a reasonable time but not later than ninety days after the filing of an application for an order of approval which is denied or the termination of the period of an order entered under this section or extensions thereof, the issuing or denying judge shall cause to be served, on the persons named in the order or application and on all reasonably identifiable persons whose communications were intercepted, inventory which shall include notice of: (1) the fact of the entry of the order or the application; (2) the date of the entry and the period of authorized, approved or disapproved interception, or the denial of the application; and (3) the fact that during the period wire or oral communications of such person were or were not intercepted. States that the judge, upon the filing of a motion, shall make available to such person or his counsel for inspection a copy of each court order, extension, and application under which such interception was authorized or approved, and a complete and accurate record of the intercepted communications of such person and other parties to such communications, provided that, upon application of the President, the judge may postpone the disclosure of the interception for ninety days if the judge finds that there is probable cause to believe that such disclosure will endanger the military security or national defense of the United States. Provides that any aggrieved person in any proceeding in or before any authority of the United States, a State, or a political subdivision thereof, may move to suppress the contents of any intercepted wire or oral communication, or evidence derived therefrom, on the grounds that: (1) the communication was unlawfully intercepted; (2) the order of authorization or approval under which it was intercepted is insufficient on its face; (3) the interception was not made in conformity with the order of authorization or approval; or (4) such suppression is required under Federal law.
United States · United States Congress · 30 September 1974
Fishing Claims Assignment Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce, under the Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956, to make non-interest bearing loans to United States fishermen to cover the costs of damages to their commercial fishing vessels and gear, and spoiled fish resulting from such damages, by vessels (including crews) of a foreign nation. Sets forth the terms of such loans. Establishes the United States Fishing Vessel Claims Commission to investigate each incident. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as necessary to carry out this Act. (Adds 16 U.S.C. 742c(f)(1)).
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 1974
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the well-being of the world and all of its people is gravely threatened by exorbitant or rigged foreign oil prices. States that it is further the sense of the Senate that Congress and the American people support President Ford and Secretary Kissinger in their call to the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries to lower the price of petroleum.