United States · United States Congress · 11 June 1981
Emergency Preparedness Act of 1981 - Title I: Standby Revenue Recycling Authority - Directs the President to submit to Congress a proposed standby plan which, when implemented, will permit the President to recycle Federal tax revenues both to State Governors for further distribution and to residents of the United States. Requires the proposed standby plan to provide for, among other things: (1) mitigation of extreme personal hardship caused by severe petroleum supply disruption; (2) national defense; (3) assurances that each U.S. resident is eligible for assistance; and (4) giving the highest priority to the enforcement of antitrust statutes that will guard against anticompetitiveness during severe petroleum supply disruptions. Provides that the recycling plan shall use a combination of emergency distribution of funds to State Governors, emergency charges in withholding rates, reductions in payroll taxes, additions to social security and income payments, or other distribution mechanisms. Requires the proposed plan to include adjustments and simplifications to the crude oil windfall profit tax that would eliminate the tax on oil discovered during and after a severe supply disruption and that would increase the tax rate on the incremental revenues resulting from the supply disruption. Prohibits the implementation of a proposed standby plan unless each House of Congress passes a resolution approving the plan within 60 days of receiving the plan. Authorizes the President to implement the plan whenever the President determines that a severe petroleum supply disruption exists and only with the passage of a joint resolution authorizing a specific amount of Federal tax revenues to be recycled. Authorizes the President to reimburse any State for expenses incurred in preparation for or execution of responsibilities delegated to such State. Title II: Use of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve - Requires the President to: (1) submit to Congress a report describing the advisability of competitive sales from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to ensure emergency access to crude oil for particularly affected refiners in lieu of a standby crude oil allocation program; and (2) submit an amendment to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve plan that incorporates procedures recommended by the study. Title III: Investigations and Reports - Directs the President to submit a report on the advisability and alternative means of: (1) reducing the tax liability of persons who draw down oil reserves during oil supply disruptions; and (2) providing tax or other incentives for the construction of private-sector oil storage facilities and the maintenance of increased private-sector oil reserves. Directs the President to submit a report on the manner in which oil stockpile and demand restraint measures have been and may be coordinated among some or all allies and trading partners.
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1981
Transfer Tax Reform Act of 1981 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the unified credit against the estate and gift taxes from $47,000 to $155,800 by specified annual increments through 1985. Increases from $175,000 to $500,000 by specified annual increments through 1985, the minimum gross estate requirement for filing of a return. Increases from $3,000 to $10,000 the annual gift tax exclusion. States that gifts made within three years of a decedent's death shall be valued as of the time of transfer rather than as of the date of death. Allows an individual to elect to pay a gift tax rather than use the unified tax credit. Revises the formula for computation of the estate tax to value gifts for preceding calendar years and quarters at their value used in computing the tax for the last preceding calendar year or quarter for which a gift tax was payable. Revises the definition of "qualified real property," for purposes of the special use valuation, to: (1) eliminate the requirement that the property be used on the date of the decedent's death for a qualified use; and (2) allow such valuation for real property which is put to a qualified use by a member of the decedent's family. Qualifies estates of decedents who were disabled or retired for the special valuation of certain farms based on use if such decedents materially participated in the operation of the farm for five out of eight years preceding the year in which they became disabled or eligible for disability benefits, under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. Permits the spouse of a decedent to use such valuation if the spouse has managed the farm or business for ten years preceding the decedent's death or takes over active management upon the decedent's death. Qualifies the owner of a woodland for the special use valuation if the owner or a member of the owner's family actively managed the property for ten years prior to the owner's death. Includes as property qualified for the valuation certain future and partial interests. Reduces from 15 to ten years the length of time a qualified property must be held and put to a qualified use following the decedent's death before it can be disposed of without incurring a recapture of estate tax benefits. Permits active management rather than material participation as a test for qualification of the estate for spouses, children under 21, students, and disabled individuals who receive property from a decedent who qualified for special use valuation. Modifies the formula for recapture upon partial disposition of qualified property to include in the calculation of the additional tax imposed the adjusted tax difference attributable to the property disposed of or ceased to be used for a qualified use. Increases from $500,000 to $1,000,000, by specified annual increments through 1986, the limitation on the aggregate decrease in the value of property to which the special use valuation is applied. Allows the like kind exchange of property without loss of special use valuation eligibility. Permits, for purposes of calculating the five-year period required for qualification of real property, the aggregation of periods with respect to exchange property with those with respect to property included in the gross estate. Repeals the requirement that an heir elect special treatment for involuntary conversions of qualified real property, thus making such treatment automatic upon such conversion. Alters the method of valuing farms and woodlands and provides an alternate discount method of valuation. Allows the election of the step-up in basis in the case of recapture upon disposition or cessation of the qualified use of property. Imposes interest upon the recapture tax in the event of such election. Expands the definition of "member of the family," for purposes of determining special use valuation eligibility, to include members of a spouse's family. Permits a parent or legal representative of a person under a legal disability to sign an agreement to the application of recapture provisions on behalf of such person. Applies the special use valuation provisions to property held in trust as through the decedent or heir had a direct interest in the property. Expands the conditions under which such property is deemed to have been acquired from the decedent to include: (1) exercise of purchase options; (2) payments by the terms of the will or trust; or (3) purchase from the estate or trust. Specifies that the estate tax deductions for indebtedness shall not be reduced if the value of the property is determined by applying the special use valuation. Modifies the alternate extension of time for payment of the estate tax where the estate consists largely of an interest in a closely held business to: (1) allow an installment payment election if the value of the interest in the closely held business is either 35 percent of the value of the gross estate or 50 of the taxable estate; (2) increase to 50 percent the value of an interest disposed of which will accelerate the payment of tax; and (3) permit payment, but with a penalty, of an installment within six months after the due date. Revises rules for determining whether property qualifies as an interest in a closely held business with respect to property included in the gross estate which is transferred prior to death and ownership of assets leased to or used by a family-owned business. Revises disclaimer rules with respect to: (1) notice and acceptance of the interest or its benefits; (2) partial disclaimers; (3) powers of appointment; and (4) disclaimers which are ineffective under State law.
United States · United States Congress · 3 June 1981
Urban Jobs and Enterprise Zone Act of 1981 - Title I: Designation of Enterprise Zones - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for the designation of enterprise zones, for a period ending December 31, 2001, and subject to the approval of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, by local governments or by State governments on behalf of local governments for purposes of extending the tax incentives and regulatory flexibility measures provided by titles II and III of this Act. Specifies that the Secretary may approve the designation of such zones only if: (1) the area is within the jurisdiction of the designating local government; (2) the boundary of the area is continuous and includes accessible vacant or underutilized properties; (3) the area has a population of at least 4,000 if any portion thereof is located within a standard metropolitan statistical area with a population of at least 50,000 or 2,500 otherwise, or is an Indian reservation; and (4) the area meets specified unemployment and poverty requirements. Requires designating local governments, as a condition of the Secretary's approval, to agree in writing to follow a course of action which may include reducing tax rates, improving local services, simplifying or streamlining regulation of business, or receiving commitments of private entities to assist employees and residents of the area. Terminates the authority of the Secretary to designate enterprise zones on December 31, 1996. Sets forth minimum and maximum numbers of such designations. Describes areas to which preference shall be given in deciding to designate enterprise zones. Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act to set forth the duties of the Secretary under this Act. Requires any property tax reduction effected by a local government under an agreed to program to be disregarded for purposes of determining the eligibility of a State or local government for Federal assistance or benefits. Expresses the sense of the Congress that whenever possible, foreign-trade zones should be established within enterprise zones and that in the case of any application for designation of a foreign-trade zone within an enterprise zone: (1) the Foreign-Trade Zone Board should expedite the application process; (2) the Board, in evaluating such application, should consider future development to be expected as a result of the incentives provided by this Act; and (3) the Board should provide technical assistance to the applicants. Title II: Taxation - Subtitle A: Refundable Credits for Employers and Employees - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow employers a refundable income tax credit for five percent of the wages paid to unemployed or economically disadvantaged individuals who are certified as eligible under the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act and who perform at least 50 percent of their services within an enterprise zone. Disallows a deduction for the portion of the wages or salaries equal to the amount of such credit. Allows individuals who are employees of qualified businesses and at least 50 percent of whose services during the taxable year are performed in an enterprise zone a refundable tax credit for five percent of the earned income attributable to services performed in an enterprise zone during a 36-month period. Limits such credit to $1,500 for any taxable year. Defines "qualified business" as a person: (1) at least 50 percent of whose gross receipts are attributable to the active conduct of a trade or business within an enterprise zone; and (2) at least 40 percent of whose employees are individuals whose employment qualifies for the employers' credit allowed under this subtitle and who are hired after the later of the dates on which the conduct of a business in an enterprise zone is begun or the area is designated as such a zone. Subtitle B: Reduction in Capital Gain Tax Rates - Reduces the alternative tax on capital gains and increases the capital gains deduction. Qualifies certain low-income rental housing located in an enterprise zone for such treatment. Permits property to remain qualified for purposes of the revised capital gains treatment after a designation of an enterprise zone has terminated. Exempts gain from the sale or exchange of property used in a business in an enterprise zone from the computation of the minimum tax. Removes as an item of tax preference accelerated depreciation on real property used in such a business. Subtitle C: Reduction in Gross Income of Trades or Businesses Operating in Zone - Excludes from taxable income a specified percentage of the sum of any amount received by a qualified business from the active conduct of a trade or business within an enterprise zone and any interest on financing provided by a taxpayer to a qualified business in connection with the conduct of such business. Subtitle D: Other Incentives - Permits any qualified business to elect to use the cash receipts and disbursements method of accounting without regard to any inventory requirements if its gross receipts do not exceed $2,000,000 in any prior taxable year. Allows a 20-year carryover of net operating losses for qualified businesses. Qualifies for the investment tax credit low-income rental housing with respect to which the capital gains tax reduction is granted under subtitle B of this title. Subtitle E: Sense of the Congress with Respect to Tax Simplification - Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Internal Revenue Service should simplify the administration and enforcement of any provision of the Internal Revenue code affected by this title. Title III: Regulatory Flexibility - Revises the definition of "small entity" for purposes of the analysis of regulatory functions, to include qualified businesses (as defined in Title II of this Act), designating governments, and nonprofit enterprises operating within enterprise zones.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Debt Collection Act of 1981 - Amends the Privacy Act of 1974 to permit a Federal agency to disclose individual records to a consumer reporting agency. Authorizes a Federal agency attempting to collect a claim under the Federal Claims Collection Act of 1966 to notify a consumer reporting agency that a person is responsible for a claim if: (1) the agency has sent a written notice informing the person that a consumer reporting agency will be contacted, describing the information to be disclosed, and explaining the person's right to dispute the agency's claim; (2) the person has not agreed to repay the claim or filed for review of the claim; (3) the agency, upon request, has reviewed the claim; and (4) the agency has obtained assurances that the consumer reporting agency complies with Federal laws governing the provision of consumer credit information. Requires the agency to notify the consumer reporting agency promptly concerning any change in the status or amount of the claim. Directs Federal agencies to require any individual applying for credit or financial assistance, which may result in indebtedness to the Government, to furnish his or her social security numbers. Authorizes an agency (including the United States Postal Service) to deduct installment payments from the pay of an employee or member of the Armed Forces or Armed Forces Reserve to offset any debts owed the Government. Limits the amount deducted to 25 percent of the individual's disposable pay. Makes murder or manslaughter of a Federal debt collector a Federal offense. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to authorize the Secretary of the Treasury to disclose to a Federal agency: (1) information concerning the tax liability of a Federal loan applicant; and (2) the mailing address of a taxpayer for use by employees or agents of the agency in collecting or compromising a Federal claim. Increases the rate of interest on delinquent taxes to 100 percent (currently 90 percent) of the prime rate quoted by commercial banks to large businesses. Permits the annual (currently biennial) adjustment of such interest rate. Allows the Government to collect claims by administrative offset beyond the six year statute of limitations on actions brought by the Government for money damages. Directs each agency to charge a minimum annual rate of interest on outstanding debts and to assess a penalty charge and handling costs on delinquent claims, except where another statute, statutorily mandated regulation, loan agreement, or contract either prohibits or explicitly fixes interest or penalty charges. Declares that service of legal process brought for the collection of U.S. claims shall be accomplished in accordance with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure or as directed by the court. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to: (1) direct each agency with outstanding debts to submit to the Director and the Department of the Treasury an annual report on the status of the agency's loans and accounts receivable; and (2) report to Congress annually on the management of agency debt collection activities.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Commends Satchel Paige for his contributions to major league baseball. Directs the Secretary of the Senate to transmit a copy of this resolution to Satchel Paige.
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1981
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the continued access of farmer-owned oil refining cooperatives and independent oil refining businesses to crude oil at reasonable prices must be assured.
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 1981
Title I: Department of State - Department of State Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1982 and 1983 - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 for the Department of State to be used for: (1) administration of foreign affairs; (2) international organizations and conferences; (3) international commissions; and (4) migration and refugee assistance of which not more than a specified amount will be available for resettling Soviet and Eastern European refugees in Israel. Requires specified amounts of such authorized appropriations to be available for: (1) maintaining specified consular posts; (2) payments to the Organization of American States; and (3) the International Committee of the Red Cross assistance program for political detainees. Limits the amount of any U.S. payment to the United Nations budget to the amount assessed as the U.S. contribution less: (1) 25 percent of the budget for the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People; and (2) 25 percent of the budget for the Special Unit on Palestinian rights. Makes a specified amount available for an ex gratia payment to Yugoslavia as an expression of U.S. concern for the injuries suffered by a Yugoslavian national who was attacked in New York City. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 for payment of the U.S. share of expenses of the science and technology agreements between the United States and Yugoslavia and the United States and Poland. Amends the passport provisions to authorize the Secretary of State to set the amount of the fees for issuance of a passport and for executing passport applications. Extends the duration of a passport's validity from five to ten years. Authorizes the Secretary to limit a passport's validity to a shorter period in an individual case or on a general basis pursuant to regulation. Deletes the limitations under current Federal laws on the authorized appropriations for payment of the U.S. share of the expenses of the: (1) Pan American Institute of Geography and History; (2) Hague Conference on Private International Law and of the International (Rome) Institute for the Unification of Private Law; and (3) Pan American Railway Congress. Amends the United Nations Participation Act of 1945 to direct the President to appoint a U.S. representative to the Vienna office of the United Nations. Provides for living quarters for certain U.S. representatives to the United Nations rather than only for the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Credits any payments made by U.S. personnel for such living quarters to the fund used by the Secretary to rent the premises. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to authorize the waiver of the requirement of possession of a valid nonimmigrant visa or border crossing identification card by a nonimmigrant alien if such alien; (1) is a nonimmigrant visitor for less than 90 days; (2) is a national of a country which extends or is prepared to extend reciprocal privileges to U.S. citizens and nationals; and (3) has been determined not to represent a threat to the United States. Sets forth the manner of determining whether such alien's country extends the necessary reciprocal privileges. Prohibits admission of an alien who otherwise meets the above conditions if such alien fails to comply with the conditions of a previous admission. Amends the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956, the United States Information and Educational Exchange Act of 1948, and the Board for International Broadcasting Act of 1973 to authorize appropriations for the State Department, the International Communication Agency, and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Inc., (RFE/RL Inc.) to offset fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates occurring after November 30 of the calendar year preceding the enactment of the authorization legislation for such fiscal year (current laws offset fluctuations occurring after November 30 of the preceding fiscal year). Amends the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to authorize the Secretary of State to transfer from accounts under the heading of administration of foreign affairs to the account set up to offset such fluctuations any amount which exceeds the needs of the approved level of operations because of such fluctuations. Authorizes appropriations for the Asia Foundation for fiscal year 1982. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1969 to authorize appropriations for the Inter-American Foundation for fiscal year 1982. Changes the method for reimbursing travel expenses of the Foundation's Board members. Amends the Federal provisions for cost-of-living allowances for Federal employees in foreign areas to authorize grants for the travel expenses for each dependent of an employee other than an employee of the Department of State or the International Communication Agency (ICA) to obtain an American (rather than an American Secondary or undergraduate college) education. Entitles a State Department or ICA employee in a foreign area to travel expenses for the employees' dependent to obtain an undergraduate college education. Title II: International Communication Agency - International Communication Agency Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1982 and 1983 - Authorizes appropriations for the ICA for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 to carry out certain international communication, educational, cultural, and exchange programs. Amends the United States Information and Educational Exchange Act of 1948 to permit any Federal employee who has special scientific, technical, or professional qualifications to be assigned to a foreign government (presently only U.S. citizens can be so assigned). Authorizes the making of procurement contracts for periods which do not exceed five years if: (1) appropriations are adequate for the first fiscal year; (2) government need is reasonably firm and continuing; (3) such contract will encourage effective competition or promote economics in performance and operation; and (4) such method will not inhibit small business participation. Requires such contracts to be cancelled if funds are not available for continuation into subsequent fiscal years. Authorizes the Director of the ICA to purchase security vehicles without regard to any maximum price limitation. Provides for the principal assistant of an ICA Associate Director to perform the duties of the Associate Director who dies, resigns, is sick, or is absent. Authorizes the Director of the ICA to purchase motion picture, radio, and television producers' liability insurance to protect interests in intellectual property. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to hold foreign currencies derived from conversions made pursuant to the obligation of informational media guaranties which are unavailable for or exceed U.S. requirements. Authorizes the sale of such currencies to Federal agencies for dollars as the currencies become available for purposes of mutual interest upon which the country from which the currencies derive and the United States agree. Excludes employees of certain exhibits of U.S. economic or cultural accomplishments from the provisions of the Defense Base Act concerning compensation for disability or death. Makes the limitation on obligations or expenditures of appropriations to carry out the United States Information and Educational Exchange Act of 1948 inapplicable with respect to any appropriations for liquidating notes which were assumed in the operation of the informational media guaranty program and were outstanding on a specified date. Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) U.S. exchange-of-persons activities should be strengthened; (2) such activities would be a cost-effective means of enhancing U.S. national security; and (3) such activities should be accorded a dependable source of long-term funding. Requires expansion of exchange-of-persons programs administered by the ICA between 1982 and 1986 to three times that in effect on the enactment of this Act. Title III: Board for International Broadcasting - Board for International Broadcasting Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1982 and 1983 - Authorizes appropriations for the Board for International Broadcasting for fiscal years 1982 and 1983. Requires a limited amount of the gain realized during fiscal year 1982 through fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates to be made available to compensate for losses incurred from the bombing at the Munich headquarters of RFE/RL, Inc. and for additional RFE/RL, Inc., operating expenses. Amends the Board for International Broadcasting Act of 1973 to prohibit the making of any grant under such Act unless the Board of Directors of RFE/RL, Inc., consists of only the members of the Board for International Broadcasting and such Board makes all major policy determinations governing the operation of RFE/RL, Inc. Title IV: Arms Control and Disarmament Agency - Arms Control and Disarmament Agency Act, Fiscal Years 1982 and 1983 - Amends the Arms Control and Disarmament Act to authorize appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 to carry out such Act. Authorizes the Director of such agency to accept the security and loyalty investigations of the Defense Investigative Service or the State Department for persons detailed to the Agency from other Government agencies. Authorizes the Director to participate in monitoring all aspects of anti-satellite activities. Title V: Miscellaneous Provisions - Repeals provisions of the Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Year 1979, which: (1) required reports to Congress the deadlines for which have already passed; (2) prohibited the use of funds authorized by such Act for reparations or aid to Vietnam; (3) prohibits the use of funds authorized by such Act to implement the Panama Canal Treaty or the Treaty Concerning the Permanent Neutrality and Operation of the Panama Canal; and (4) authorizes appropriations for an independent commission on global hunger and malnutrition. Repeals provisions of the Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Year 1978, which: (1) required reports to Congress the deadlines for which have already passed; and (2) prohibited the use of funds authorized by such Act for reparations or aid to Vietnam. Repeals provisions of the Foreign Relations Authorization Acts, Fiscal Years 1975, 1976, and 1977 which required certain reports to Congress the deadlines for which have already passed.
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 1981
International Security and Development Cooperation Act of 1981 - Title I: Military Sales and Related Programs - Amends the Arms Export Control Act to set a trigger price for transfers of defense equipment, articles, and services for which the President would be required to submit a certification to Congress before consenting to such transfer. Prohibits the President from consenting to transfers of defense equipment, articles, or services whose value exceeds such trigger price until a specified time after the certification has been submitted to Congress. Sets the same trigger price for requiring a certification by the President with respect to letters of offer to sell and applications for export licenses. Amends the International Security and Development Cooperation Act of 1980 to set the same trigger price for requiring a certification by the President with respect to leasing defense property. Amends the Arms Export Control Act to make the President's consent to a transfer or sale of defense equipment, articles, and service to NATO, any NATO member, Japan, Australia, or New Zealand effective 15 days after submission of certification unless Congress adopts a concurrent resolution disapproving such transfer. Makes such consent effective immediately if an emergency exists. Provides for expedited consideration of such concurrent resolution. Requires the President to report to Congress within 48 hours of the existence of, or a change in status of, certain hostilities or terrorist acts (currently after the outbreak of significant hostilities) involving a country in which U.S. personnel are performing certain defense services. Requires such report to include: (1) the country's identity; (2) a description of such hostilities or terrorist acts; and (3) the number of U.S. armed forces and civilians who may be endangered (currently the report must also include their location, the nature of their activities, and the likelihood of their becoming endangered). Authorizes the President to reduce or waive charges for certain nonrecurring research and development costs involved in producing defense articles and equipment which would advance standardization of U.S. armed forces with the armed forces of Japan, Australia, or New Zealand or would advance foreign procurement in the United States. Authorizes appropriations for the military sales credit and guarantee program for fiscal year 1982. Sets the ceiling for fiscal year 1982 on: (1) foreign military sales credits; and (2) foreign military sales loan guarantees. Releases borrowers of such credits from their liability to repay the U.S. government. Allots a specified amount of such credits and loan guarantees for Israel. Deletes the provision which allotted a specified amount for relocating Israeli forces from the Sinai. Obligates foreign military sales credit and guarantee funds for fiscal year 1982 to finance procurement of defense articles and services by Israel. Provides repayment terms for loans to specified countries under the foreign military sales loan guarantee program. Repeals the provision which exempts from the export license requirement the sale of certain defense equipment to specified military allies. Repeals the provision which requires timely reporting to the Secretary of State of contributions paid by any person in connection with sales of defense articles or services. Authorizes the President to restrict such contributions. Includes extraordinary expenses in charges for administrative expenses for foreign military sales. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to establish a Special Defense Acquisition Fund and to acquire with such Fund defense articles and services in anticipation of their transfer to eligible foreign countries and international organizations. Requires acquisitions of short supply items to be emphasized when compatible with security assistance requirements. Sets forth the sources of the Fund's moneys. Limits the size of the Fund. Directs the President to estimate annually for Congress the likely procurements to be made through the Fund. Prohibits the transfer of any defense articles or services acquired by such Fund to any foreign country or international organization unless authorized by such Act or the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. Authorizes the temporary use of such defense articles and services by U.S. armed forces prior to their transfer. Authorizes the use of such Fund to pay for the costs related to the acquisition and transfer of such defense articles and services. Authorizes the President to lease in stock defense articles to an eligible foreign country or international organization if: (1) the President determines there are compelling foreign policy and national security reasons for leasing rather than selling such articles; (2) the President determines the articles are not presently needed for public use; and (3) the foreign country or international organization has agreed to pay all costs incurred in leasing such articles. Limits each lease agreement to five-years duration. Requires each lease to provide that the President may terminate the lease and require immediate return of the leased articles. Authorizes loans for leases of such defense articles. Directs the President to submit a notification to Congress before entering into or renewing such a lease or loan. Authorizes the waiver of such notification if the President reports to Congress that an emergency exists. Prohibits any lease or loan of defense equipment of articles valued at or above specified amounts if Congress objects to the proposed lease on loan by adopting a concurrent resolution. Exempts such loans or leases to NATO, any NATO member, Japan, Australia, or New Zealand from such legislative review. Applies laws restricting the countries or organizations to which arms sales may be made to leases of defense articles under this Act. Makes the Secretary of State responsible for the supervision and general direction of such leases. Requires such leases to meet the same prerequisites for consent by the President as sales of such articles or services. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to require loan agreements covering defense articles to provide for restoration or replacement of loaned defense articles which are damaged, lost, or destroyed. Amends the International Security and Development Cooperation Act of 1980 to repeal the provision relating to leasing defense property. Amends the Arms Export Control Act to eliminate the requirement that the President include in the quarterly report to Congress on military exports a listing of all property valued at $1,000,000 or more which was leased to a foreign government for more than six months. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for military assistance. Increases the aggregate value of defense material which the President can order for military assistance in an unforeseen emergency. Sets the limitation on additions to stockpiles of defense articles for foreign countries for fiscal year 1982. Eliminates the requirement of specific Congressional authorization for the operation of a military assistance advisory group, military mission, or organization of U.S. military personnel in a foreign country. Authorizes the President to assign U.S. military personnel to foreign countries to perform necessary management and other functions related to international security assistance programs. Limits the number of such personnel assigned in each foreign country to the number justified to Congress unless specified Congressional committees are notified. Retains the provision making the Chief of the U.S. Diplomatic Mission in each foreign country responsible for supervising such military personnel. Exempts from numerical limitations military personnel performing certain services under the Arms Export Control Act. Expresses the sense of Congress that advising and training assistance in countries to which such personnel are assigned shall be provided by other personnel who are detailed for limited periods to perform specific tasks. Specifies the funds which will be charged with the costs of overseas management of international security assistance programs. Retains the provision which restricts encouragement by U.S. diplomatic and military personnel of military equipment purchases by foreign countries. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for international military education and training and for peacekeeping operations. Title II: Economic Support Fund and Other Programs - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for the Economic Support Fund. Allots a minimum amount of the authorized economic support funds for such year for Israel and Egypt on a grant basis. Authorizes making such funds available to Israel as a cash transfer. Allots a specified amount of fiscal year 1982 economic support funds for: (1) Turkey; (2) Cyprus; (3) emergency use to promote economic or political stability; (4) Tunisia; and (5) Pakistan. Prohibits making any such funds available to Syria. Repeals the provision relating to Central American economic support. Title III: Development Assistance - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for: (1) agricultural development programs; (2) participation in the International Fund for Agricultural Development; (3) voluntary population planning; (4) health programs; (5) education and human resources development, earmarking a specified amount for scholarships for disadvantaged South African students; (6) development of indigenous energy resources (7) scientific and technological cooperation programs; and (8) promotion of human rights. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President, in order to further the purposes of participation in the International Fund for Agricultural Development, should: (1) instruct U.S. representatives to seek to limit the number of the Fund's professional staff; (2) instruct U.S. representatives to seek equity among contributors to the Fund; (3) encourage development of procedures to expedite Fund disbursements for projects; and (4) seek to assure that the U.S. contribution is disbursed in a manner related to the Fund's actual rate of disbursal. Prohibits using population planning and health program funds to pay for research related to use of abortions or involuntary sterilization as a means of family planning. Earmarks a specified amount of such funds for private voluntary organizations for carrying out public health activities. Authorizes the President to furnish aid for: (1) disaster preparedness programs; and (2) scientific and technological cooperation programs. Sets a minimum amount of international development appropriations for fiscal year 1982 to be spent on international programs which support the original goals of the U.N. Decade for Women. Directs the President to consider Congressional concerns about the loss of tropical forests in developing countries and the recommendations of the U.S. Interagency Task Force on Tropical Forests: (1) in carrying out programs with respect to developing countries; and (2) in seeking opportunities to coordinate development and investment activities which affect such forests. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should instruct U.S. representatives to international organizations to urge that: (1) higher priority be given to the problems of tropical forest alteration and loss; and (2) there be improved cooperation among these organizations with respect to tropical forest activities. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for implementation of the Sahel development program. Sets a minimum amount of funds authorized for specified international development programs which must be made available to private voluntary organizations. Authorizes U.S. participation in the International Food Policy Research Institute. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for: (1) international organizations and programs and (2) trade and development programs. Extends authorization for worldwide housing guarantees until September 30, 1983. Establishes a revolving fund in the U.S. Treasury as the depository fund for all income derived from such guarantees. Title IV: Other Assistance Programs - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for: (1) American schools and hospitals abroad; (2) international disaster assistance; and (3) international narcotics control. Deletes the prohibition against the use of international narcotics control funds to pay for herbicide spraying to eradicate marihuana. Directs the Secretary of State to inform the Secretary of Health and Human Services if herbicide is going to be used on marihuana. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to monitor the impact on marihuana users of such herbicide spraying and to report to Congress if such users are exposed to harmful amounts of herbicide. Earmarks a specified amount of such funds to develop a substance which warns users that marihuana has been sprayed with paraquat. Requires such a substance, if developed, to be used with the herbicide paraquat. Title V: Overseas Private Investment Corporation - Increases the maximum per capita income which qualifies a less developed country for preferential consideration by the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC). Increases the minimum per capita income level in a country at which OPIC must restrict its activities. Directs OPIC to support developmental projects having trade benefits for the United States. Directs OPIC to refuse to insure, reinsure, or finance any investment subject to conditions which would tend to reduce significantly the positive trade benefits to the United States. Increases the number of members of OPIC's Board of Directors. Authorizes OPIC to insure approved projects against the risks of civil strife. Limits OPIC's share of insurance liability for multilateral investments to the proportionate participation of eligible investors in the projects. Directs OPIC to report to the appropriate Congressional committees before issuing civil strife insurance for the first time and before issuing insurance in which the risk to be insured is significantly enlarged. Limits the amount of investment insurance and guaranties issued to a single investor to a certain percentage of the maximum contingent liability of such insurance and guaranties which OPIC is permitted to have outstanding. Deletes the prohibition against OPIC entering certain direct insurance underwriting agreements with other insurance companies. Deletes the limitation on the amount of OPIC's annual reinsurance liabilities. Extends the authority of OPIC to issue investment insurance and guaranties until September, 1985. Authorizes loans from the Direct Investment Fund to the extent amounts are appropriated. Authorizes computation of a claim of loss under equity investment insurance on the basis of net book value attributable to such equity investment on the date of loss. Abolishes the provision which permits a State to prohibit OPIC from requiring an investor to be insured for ten percent of an investment otherwise insured by OPIC. Authorizes OPIC to collect or compromise any obligations assigned to or held by it. Authorizes the Inspector General (formerly the Auditor-General) of the Agency for International Development to review, investigate, and inspect OPIC's activities. Abolishes: (1) OPIC's Advisory Council; (2) certain limitations on OPIC's financial support for new or expanded copper exploration or extraction projects; and (3) the prohibitions on OPIC financial support for projects involving production or processing of palm oil, sugar, or citrus crops for export. Title VI: Peace Corps - Peace Corps Autonomy Act - Makes the Peace Corps an independent agency within the Executive branch. Transfers to the Director of the Peace Corps all functions relating to the Peace Corps which were vested in the Director of the ACTION agency. Provides for the transfer of personnel, contracts, property records, and funds used primarily by the Peace Corps to the Peace Corps. Prohibits the transfer of personnel from causing a loss of employee benefits for such personnel for a specified period of time. Requires transferred personnel to be assigned to functions and units related to their assignments before enactment. Requires collective bargaining agreements covering Peace Corps personnel or transferred personnel to continue to be recognized by the Peace Corps. Requires each person employed primarily in connection with any function relating to the Peace Corps who does not hold a Foreign Service appointment to be appointed a member of the Foreign Service, except that: (1) for three years no person currently holding a career or career-conditional appointment shall be appointed a member of the Foreign Service without such person's consent; and (2) each transferred person who held an appointment below a specified grade level shall be appointed a member of the Foreign Service for the duration of operations under the Peace Corps Act (thus, not subject to such Act's five-year appointment limitation). Authorizes the President to delegate the authority to carry out the Peace Corps Act only to the Director of the Peace Corps. Amends such Act to delete certain provisions relating to readjustment allowance payments to Peace Corps volunteers. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget and the Comptroller General to submit reports to the appropriate Congressional committees on the implementation of this Act. Authorizes appropriations for the Peace Corps for fiscal year 1982. Requires the Peace Corps to give particular attention to programs which tend to integrate disabled people into developing countries' national economies. Removes present malpractice protection for Peace Corps volunteers. Applies the malpractice protection currently covering State Department personnel to Peace Corps volunteers and personnel. Removes the applicability of the Mutual Defense Control Act of 1951 to the functions of the Peace Corps. Title VII: Miscellaneous Provisions - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize appropriations for operating expenses of international development programs for fiscal year 1982. Makes permanent the exemption from limitations on U.S. assistance for construction of production enterprises in Egypt. Authorizes compensation rates for non-Foreign Service personnel assigned outside the United States. Entitles U.S. special mission deputies to compensation. Sets forth the material which must be contained in a notification to Congress of changes in foreign assistance programs. Transfers the functions of the Director of the U.S. International Development Cooperation Agency (IDCA) to specified agencies and officials. Transfers the personnel, property, and funds of IDCA to AID. Provides for the continuation of suits commenced before such transfer. Amends the International Security and Development Cooperation Act of 1980 to transfer from the Director of IDCA to the Administrator of the agency primarily responsible for international development the responsibility to encourage private and voluntary organizations to deal with world hunger problems. Authorizes the obligation of funds for military and economic assistance under specified Federal laws for El Salvador, only if prior to each such grant of assistance the President certifies to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that El Salvador's Government: (1) is making progress in controlling violations of internationally recognized human rights; (2) is moving to achieve control over its armed forces; (3) is making progress in implementing essential economic and political reforms; (4) is committed to holding free elections; and (5) has demonstrated its willingness to negotiate a political resolution of the conflict. Directs the President, if such certification is not made or if such certification is made but does not take effect, to: (1) suspend specified military assistance and military education and training for El Salvador; (2) withhold approvals for use of certain credits and guarantees for El Salvador; (3) suspend deliveries of certain defense articles, defense services, and design and construction services; and (4) withdraw from El Salvador all U.S. armed forces performing specified functions. Prohibits the President from making such certification until the President also certifies that El Salvador's government has made good faith efforts to investigate the murders of six U.S. citizens in El Salvador and to bring those responsible for the murders to justice. Repeals the prohibition against the granting of certain military and economic assistance to or for Argentina. Authorizes such aid if the President submits to Congress a report certifying that: (1) Argentina has made significant progress in complying with internationally recognized principles of human rights; and (2) the provision of such assistance is in the U.S. national interest. Sets forth matters to be considered in determining whether significant progress is being made in complying with human rights principles. Amends the International Security and Development Cooperation Act of 1980 to repeal the prohibition against aid to military or paramilitary operations in Angola. Requires the President to submit to the appropriate Congressional committees a report including specified information before furnishing assistance to such operations in Angola. Amends the Arms Export Control Act to consolidate reports required under such Act within the President's annual estimate and justification for arms sales. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to consolidate within the President's annual report to Congress on foreign assistance of various reports which are currently required. Repeals specified provisions of the following Acts: (1) Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (including prohibitions against foreign assistance to Communist dominated or controlled countries and against assistance to countries preparing for aggressive military efforts); (2) International Development Cooperation Act of 1980 (including restriction on aid to El Salvador); (3) International Development Cooperation Act of 1979; (4) Special International Security Assistance Act of 1979; (5) International Development and Food Assistance Acts of 1975, 1977, and 1978; (6) Foreign Assistance Acts of 1973 and 1974; (7) Arms Export Control Act; (8) International Security Assistance Acts of 1977, 1978, and 1979; (9) International Security Assistance and Arms Export Control Act of 1976; and (10) Foreign Military Sales Act Amendments. Authorizes the President to waive for Pakistan the prohibition against aiding countries that receive or transfer nuclear enrichment materials. Directs the President to report to Congress on proposed aid to Pakistan. States that the President should not use a specified waiver permitting the provision of assistance to a country which transfers nuclear reprocessing materials if such country detonates a nuclear device. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the United States should continue its efforts to: (1) end the strife in Lebanon and urge others to exert their influence to end Lebanon's turmoil; and (2) strengthen the authority and ability of the Lebanese Central Government.
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 1981
Title I: International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and Asian Development Bank - Amends the Bretton Woods Agreements Act to authorize the U.S. Governor of the International Bank for Reconstruction to: (1) vote to increase the authorized capital stock of the Bank; and (2) subscribe to a maximum of 73,010 shares of such stock. Authorizes appropriations to pay for the U.S. subscription to such stock. Authorizes the U.S. Governor of the Bank to subscribe to the callable portion of the U.S. share of increases in capital stock up to a specified maximum amount. Title II: Inter-American Development Bank and Asian Development Bank - Amends the Inter-American Development Bank Act to authorize the U.S. Governor of the Bank to contribute $70,000,000 to the Fund for special operations. Authorizes appropriations for the increase in the U.S. subscription to the Bank's capital stock and for the U.S. contribution to the Fund for Special Operations. Amends the Asian Development Bank Act to authorize the U.S. Governor of the Bank to contribute $66,750,000 to the Asian Development Fund. Authorizes appropriations for such contribution. Title III: Hunger and Global Security - Hunger and Global Security Multilateral Development Bank Act - Amends the Bretton Woods Agreements Act to direct the Secretary of the Treasury to consult with representatives of member countries of specified international development banks to establish guidelines which specify that annual lending by each such institution shall be designed to benefit needy people. Expresses the sense of Congress that at least 50 percent of the annual lending by each such institution should be designed to benefit needy people. Defines needy people as those who are classified as absolutely or relatively poor under the standards adopted by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the International Development Association. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to report annually to Congress on the progress being made in aiding needy people and on the proportion of the lending by each such institution which benefits needy people. Title IV: Effective Date and Availability of Funds - Sets the effective dates of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1981
National Home Weatherization Act of 1981 - Allows a State to submit an annual grant application requesting financial assistance under this Act for energy assistance and weatherization programs authorized under the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act, the Emergency Energy Conservation Act, the Energy Policy and Conservation Act, the National Energy Extension Service Act, and any other Federal law. Requires that 65 percent of such assistance be used for low-income weatherization assistance programs unless the Governor determines that an insufficient or limited need for such assistance exists in such State. Sets forth the circumstances under which a State application will not be approved. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to provide financial and technical assistance to States and Indian tribes to fund energy programs and State energy plans. Requires a State to submit a State energy plan in order to receive assistance under this Act. Requires that State energy plans contain: (1) a plan for coordinating and apportioning responsibilities for development and implementation of the State energy plans; (2) an implementation plan for a low- income weatherization assistance program; (3) a plan to coordinate the administration of various Federal low-income energy assistance programs; (4) a plan and a description of the proposed uses of funds for the implementation of the State energy plan; (5) a description of State energy supply and demand and State energy conservation goals and policies; and (6) a description of how the State and local governments plan to implement any other State energy programs. Directs the Secretary to approve a State energy plan or modification thereto unless the plan or modification fails to comply with this Act or with Federal law. Requires Federal agencies which produce or consume significant quantities of energy within a State to provide energy-related information to the State upon request. Directs a State to hold public hearings on the development of its first State energy plan and any plan modifications. Requires that a State give priority to the needs of the poor, the handicapped, and the elderly in its State energy plan. Directs the Secretary to provide written notice of and an opportunity for a hearing concerning: (1) disapproval of a State application for assistance, a waiver request under this Act, or a State energy plan or plan modification; or (2) a finding that a recipient of assistance has not complied with this Act or any other law. Authorizes the Secretary to suspend financial assistance upon issuance of such a notice. Prohibits the payment of financial assistance for any State energy plan or other activities if the Secretary makes a final determination of noncompliance. Sets forth the allocation of the funds available under this Act. Restricts the expenditures of such funds. Directs the Secretary to reserve a portion of the funds annually for the benefit of Indian tribes. Limits the total amount allocated for any State in any year to ten percent of the total allocation for all the States. Requires a State receiving financial assistance to provide local governments and regional councils with funds commensurate with their responsibilities with respect to the State energy plan. Permits a State to participate in interstate or multistate organizations that coordinate State energy plans. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982-1984.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1981
Expresses the sense of the Senate that Anatoly Shcharansky be released from prison in the Soviet Union, be given proper medical treatment, and be permitted to emigrate to Israel. Urges the President, the Secretary of State, and the U.S. delegation to the Madrid Conference on Security and Cooperation to continue to express U.S. opposition to the imprisonment of Anatoly Shcharansky.
United States · United States Congress · 6 May 1981
Delinquent Payments Act of 1981 - Requires Federal agencies to pay interest on overdue payments to businesses for property or services. Specifies the procedure for computing such interest. Requires an agency to pay any such interest charges out of funds appropriated for its programs. Allows an agency to take advantage of an early payment discount only if payment is made within the time specified by the business. Directs each agency to report to Congress annually on interest payments made during the fiscal year.
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1981
Product Liability Risk Retention Act of 1981 - Defines "risk retention group" to mean any corporation or insurance company formed under State law which: (1) is organized for the primary purpose of assuming and spreading product liability or completed operations liability risk exposure; (2) is chartered or licensed as an insurance company under State law; (3) does not exclude members for competitive advantage; and (4) consists of members whose principal activity is the manufacture, design, distribution, packaging or sale of a product. Defines "purchasing group" to mean any group of persons which has as one of its purposes the purchase of product liability or completed operations insurance on a group basis. Exempts risk retention groups and purchasing groups from State laws which prohibit, regulate, or otherwise discriminate against such groups. Enumerates requirements which a State may impose on a risk retention group, including compliance with unfair claims settlement practices laws, payment of taxes, and reporting requirements. Authorizes a State to license an agent or broker for a purchasing group. Stipulates that the ownership interests of members in a risk retention group shall not be considered securities or an investment company for purposes of the Federal securities laws or State blue sky laws.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1981
Regulatory Reform Act - Amends the Administrative Procedure Act to require the notice of proposed agency rulemaking to include: (1) a statement of the Congressional intent behind the rule; (2) a solicitation for public proposals for alternative methods; (3) a description of the data used in the rulemaking; and (4) a determination of whether the rule is a "major rule," as defined in this Act. Directs each agency to publish with such notice: (1) a description of the costs and benefits of and alternatives to the proposed rule; and (2) a justification for proposing the rule and selecting it over the alternatives. Requires agencies to give interested persons at least 60 days to submit written comments on any proposed rule and to make oral comments on major rules. Provides for a 30-day extension of such period. Directs each agency to publish with each final rule a statement of its basis and purpose, including an assessment of the public comments and a comparison of the costs, benefits, and adverse effects of the rule. Requires an agency officer or employee to prepare the rulemaking notice and the statement of the basis and purpose. Directs each agency to maintain, for judicial review, a public file of the paperwork and comments pertaining to each rulemaking proceeding. Allows an agency to promulgate an emergency rule without meeting the notice and comment requirements. Directs such agency: (1) to publish an explanation of the situation requiring the emergency rule and a justification of the emergency rule selected; and (2) to comply with normal rulemaking requirements as soon as practicable. Requires each agency to review its major rules every ten years. Directs each agency to: (1) publish and submit to the President a proposed review schedule; and (2) publish a final schedule within one year after enactment of this Act. Permits the President to select additional rules for review. Directs each agency to publish a notice of its proposed action regarding a reviewed rule. Requires that the notice: (1) assess the costs, benefits, and adverse effects of the rule; and (2) invite public proposals for modifications or alternatives to the rule. Requires an agency to follow normal rulemaking procedures when amending or rescinding a rule. Specifies procedures for renewing a rule without amendment. Directs a court reviewing an agency action to: (1) set aside any agency rule found to lack substantial support in the rulemaking file; (2) determine the authority or jurisdiction of the agency on the basis of the language of the authorizing statute or other evidence of legislative intent; and (3) accord no presumption in favor of or against agency action. Declares that when proceedings for review of the same agency action are instituted in two or more courts of appeals within ten days, the Administrative Office of the United States Courts shall select the court in which the record shall be filed by a system of random selection. Authorizes the courts not selected to grant preliminary relief pending transfer of their proceedings. Requires each agency to publish in the Federal Register, semiannually, an agenda of the rules the agency expects to propose, promulgate, renew, or withdraw within the next 12 months, including a schedule of the significant actions pertaining to each rule. Directs the President to publish, semiannually, a Calendar of Federal Regulations, listing each of the major rules included in the agenda.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1981
Inter-American Foundation Act of 1981 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1969 to authorize appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 for the Inter-American Foundation. Changes the method for reimbursing travel expenses of the Foundation's Board members (currently such reimbursement is limited to $50 per day plus transportation expenses).
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1981
Coastal Barrier Resources Act - Declares the findings and intentions of Congress in regard to the fish, wildlife, and other natural resources associated with the coastal barriers along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States. Establishes the Coastal Barrier Resources System (System) which shall consist of specified undeveloped coastal barriers on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Requires that certain coastal barrier maps shall be available for public inspection through the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to provide copies of such maps to the chief executive officer of: (1) each State and political subdivision in which a System unit is located, and (2) each affected Federal agency. Directs the Secretary to make necessary modifications to such maps and to notify specified Congressional committees of the same. Limits, to specified projects, Federal expenditures on such projects or financial assistance for purposes within the System. Lists those projects eligible for financial assistance. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to certify annually to Congress that the Federal agencies concerned have complied with the provisions of this Act. Declares that no provision of this Act shall be construed to invalidate any provision of State or local law. Sets forth the contents of reports to be filed by the Secretary with specified Congressional committees. Authorizes appropriations to the Department of the Interior for fiscal years 1982 through 1986 for the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1981
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Senate and the American people: (1) regret the loss of Japanese life and property in connection with the collision of a U.S. submarine and a Japanese freighter; (2) sympathize with the families of those who died; and (3) assure Japan that the collision will be investigated and explained.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1981
Overseas Private Investment Corporation Amendments Act of 1981 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to direct the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) to support developmental projects having trade benefits for the United States. Increases the maximum per capita income which qualifies a less developed country for preferential consideration for investment projects. Removes the restriction on OPIC with respect to investment projects in less developed countries that have per capita incomes of $1,000 or more in 1975 U.S. dollars. Increases the number of members of OPIC's Board of Directors. Requires the United States Trade Representative to serve as Vice Chairman of the Board. Authorizes OPIC to insure approved projects against the risks of civil strife. Limits OPIC's share of insurance liability for multilateral investments to the proportionate participation of eligible investors in the projects (currently in total project financing). Limits the amount of investment insurance and investment guaranties to be issued to a single investor to a certain percentage of the maximum contingent liability of such insurance and guaranties which OPIC is permitted to have outstanding. Deletes the prohibition against OPIC entering certain direct insurance underwriting agreements with other insurance companies. Deletes the limitation on the amount of OPIC's annual reinsurance liabilities. Extends the authority of OPIC to issue investment insurance and guaranties until September, 1985. Authorizes loans from the Direct Investment Fund to the extent amounts are appropriated. Authorizes computation of a claim of loss under equity investment insurance on the basis of net book value attributable to such equity investment on the date of loss. Abolishes the provision which permits a State to prohibit OPIC from requiring an investor to be insured for ten percent of an investment otherwise insured by OPIC. Authorizes OPIC to collect or compromise any obligations assigned to or held by OPIC. Abolishes the requirement that the Auditor-General of the Agency for International Development audit OPIC. Authorizes (currently directs) such Auditor-General to review, investigate, and inspect OPIC's activities. Abolishes: (1) OPIC's Advisory Council; (2) certain limitations on OPIC's financial support for new or expanded copper exploration or extraction projects; and (3) the prohibitions on OPIC financial support for projects involving production or processing of palm oil, sugar, or citrus crops for export.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1981
Amends the Arms Control and Disarmament Act to authorize appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 for the U.S. Arms Control and Disarmament Agency. Authorizes the Director of such Agency to accept the security and loyalty investigations of the Defense Investigative Service or the State Department for persons detailed to the Agency from other Government agencies.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1981
International Security and Development Cooperation Act of 1981 - Title I: Development Assistance - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for: (1) agricultural development programs; (2) participation in the International Fund for Agricultural Development; (3) voluntary population planning programs; (4) health programs; and (5) education and human resources development. Authorizes assistance for foreign disaster preparedness programs. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for: (1) energy, private voluntary organizations, and selected development activities; (2) scientific and technological cooperation; (3) implementation of the Sahel Development Program; and (4) American schools and hospitals abroad. Eliminates references to a target figure and fiscal year for promotion of human rights. Authorizes U.S. participation in the International Fertilizer Development Center and the International Food Policy Research Institute. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for: (1) participation in international organizations and programs; (2) international disaster assistance; (3) trade and development; and (4) housing guaranty programs. Sets up a revolving fund in the U.S. Treasury for all fees derived from certain guaranty programs. Authorizes investment of such funds in U.S. obligations. Title II: Miscellaneous Provisions - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for the operating expenses of the International Development Cooperation Agency and the Agency for International Development. Makes permanent the exemption from limitations on U.S. assistance of construction of productive enterprises in Egypt. Authorizes compensation rates for non-Foreign Service personnel assigned outside the United States. Entitles U.S. special mission deputies to compensation. Title III: Economic Support Fund and Other Programs - Authorizes appropriations for Economic Support Fund programs for 1982. Repeals provisions earmarking funds for certain economic support programs. Authorizes appropriations for peacekeeping operations for fiscal year 1982. Removes the limitations on emergency transfers of economic support funds to peacekeeping operations when necessary for U.S. security. Repeals the requirement that potentially harmful herbicides used in international narcotics control programs to eradicate marijuana must be used with another substance that will warn potential users of the herbicide's presence. Authorizes appropriations for international narcotics control for fiscal year 1982. Title IV: Military Sales and Related Programs - Amends the Arms Export Control Act to authorize the waiver of reimbursement for certain nonrecurring research and development costs for sales of defense equipment that would advance U.S. standardization with the armed forces of Japan, Australia, or New Zealand. Eliminates such a waiver provision for foreign procurement in the United States under coproduction arrangements. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for foreign military sales credit and guaranty programs. Sets the ceilings on total principal amounts of foreign military sales credits and guarantees. Sets the minimum allocation to Israel of the foreign military sales credit for fiscal year 1982. Deletes the provision which earmarked certain funds for relocating Israeli troops from the Sinai. Makes the provision for repayment by Israel of funds for procuring defense articles and services applicable to fiscal year 1982. Sets certain repayment terms for foreign military sales loans to Egypt and Turkey guaranteed by such Act. Sets a minimum value on proposed transfers of defense articles and services which would require the President to submit a certification to Congress before consenting to such transfer. Exempts from the certification requirement any such transfer to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), any member of NATO, Japan, Australia, or New Zealand. Increases the threshold for proposed sales of defense articles, services, and major equipment which must be included in the Annual Arms Sales Proposal. Extends the time within which the President must report the price and availability estimates of such defense articles, services, and major equipment. Exempts from the certification requirement for letters of offers to make such sales any such letter to NATO, any member of NATO, Japan, Australia, or New Zealand. Increases the threshold value of commercial exports of defense articles, services, or major equipment which require certification. Eliminates the provision for disapproval of such exports by passage of a concurrent resolution in Congress. Exempts from the certification requirement such exports to NATO, any NATO member, Japan, Australia, or New Zealand. Amends the International Security and Development Cooperation Act of 1980 to increase the threshold value of a lease of major defense equipment to a foreign government which must be reported to Congress. Amends the Arms Export Control Act to eliminate the fee reporting requirements of military sales agents. Includes extraordinary as well as administrative expenses in charges for administrative services under such Act. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to establish a Special Defense Acquisition Fund to finance the acquisition of defense articles and services in anticipation of their transfer to eligible foreign countries and international organizations. Requires acquisition of short supply items to be emphasized when compatible with security assistance requirements for transfer of such items. Prohibits the transfer of any defense articles or services acquired by such Fund to any foreign country or international organization unless authorized by law. Authorizes the temporary use of such defense articles and services by U.S. Armed Forces prior to their transfer if necessary to meet national defense requirements. Authorizes the use of such Fund to pay for the costs related to the acquisition and transfer of such defense articles and services. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize appropriations for military assistance programs for fiscal year 1982. Repeals the requirement that authorizations of military assistance be to specified countries in specified amounts. Increases the ceiling on additions to stockpiles of defense articles in foreign countries for fiscal year 1982. Authorizes the President to assign military personnel to foreign countries to manage international security assistance programs. Limits the number of such personnel in each such country to the number justified in the Congressional presentation materials for such country unless the appropriate Congressional committees are notified. Eliminates certain limitations on the performance of management functions by such military personnel. Expresses the sense of Congress that training assistance in such countries shall primarily be provided by personnel not assigned to manage international security assistance programs. Requires the entire cost of overseas management of such programs, beginning in fiscal year 1983, to be paid out of military assistance program funding. Authorizes appropriations for the international military education and training programs for fiscal year 1982. Authorizes the President to furnish assistance to certain countries which receive or transfer nuclear enrichment equipment, materials, or technology if the President certifies to Congress that withholding such assistance would be seriously prejudicial to U.S. nonproliferation objectives or otherwise jeopardize the common defense and security. Repeals the prohibition against certain forms of military and economic assistance to or for Argentina. Amends the International Security and Development Cooperation Act of 1980 to repeal the prohibition against aid to military or paramilitary operations in Angola. Title V: Authorizations for the Fiscal Year 1983 and Effective Date - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1983 for programs for which appropriations for fiscal year 1982 are authorized by this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1981
National Export Policy Act of 1981 - Title I: General Findings and Purposes - Sets forth congressional findings and the purposes of this Act. Title II: Export Financing - Amends the Export - Import Bank Act of 1945 to establish staggered, ten-year terms of office for the Bank directors. Requires the House and Senate Appropriations Committees to consider limitations on Bank activities when considering appropriations for international trade activities rather than when considering foreign assistance activities. Title III: Export - Related Tax Policy - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the earned income exclusion for citizens working abroad, who are bona fide residents of a foreign country, from an annual rate of $20,000 to $50,000 plus 50 percent of such individual's compensation which exceeds $50,000 but does not exceed $75,000, if such persons qualify as bona fide residents for certain specified periods. Allows separate exclusions to married individuals who are both working overseas, although one's excess exclusion cannot be used against income earned by the other. Provides a tax exclusion for such individuals for the amount by which such individual's housing expenses exceed 16 percent of a GS-14, step 1 salary level for a Federal employee. Permits such individuals to include in the computation of housing expenses the costs of a second foreign household if such individual's family resides outside the United States but not with the individual because of adverse living conditions where the individual resides. Repeals similar deductions for cost-of-living differential, schooling expenses, home leave travel expenses, and residence in a hardship area. Excludes from an employee's gross income any lodging furnished the employee by an employer in a camp which meets specified requirements. Repeals the current provisions relating to deductions for certain expenses of living abroad. Provides that the foreign bad debt loss deduction shall not exceed the greater of 15 percent of the taxpayer's taxable income from exports, or two percent of the taxpayer's export receivables outstanding at the close of the taxable year. Provides that the amount of bad debt losses that may be added to a bad debt reserve shall not exceed five percent of the taxpayer's export receivables outstanding as of the close of the taxable year. Permits the amortization, based on a period of 60 months, of: (1) foreign market studies; (2) foreign marketing expenses; and (3) foreign patents. Permits an income tax deduction for currency fluctuation losses on export credit which have not been repaid by the end of the taxable year. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to extend the six-month deadline for exempting exports from the manufacturer's excise tax for an additional 12 months if it is determined, after consultation with the Secretary of State, that exports were delayed because of war, civil unrest, or similar adverse conditions in a foreign nation. Amends the Foreign Trade Zones Act to authorize the Secretary of Commerce to approve the duty-free entry of machinery, materials, and fuels to be used for the production of goods in a foreign trade zone if such goods are not subsequently entered into U.S. customs territory. Sets forth requirements before applications for such treatment will be approved. Makes such approval valid for six years. Requires the Foreign Trade Zones Board to include in its annual report to Congress a summary of activities and proposals to increase the use of foreign trade zones to expand U.S. exports. Makes banking organizations which have invested in an export trading company eligible for treatment as domestic international sales corporations (DISC). Includes the gross receipts from the export of services produced in the United States and from export trade services as qualified export receipts, in the case of a DISC which is an export trading company. Directs the Secretary of Commerce, with the Secretary of the Treasury, to develop and distribute information concerning the utilization of the DISC provisions. Makes export trading companies eligible for Subchapter S treatment if the shareholders of such companies are otherwise small business corporations. Exempts such companies from restrictions on the amount of foreign income they can receive and still be eligible for Subchapter S tax treatment. Title IV: Antitrust - Amends the Webb-Pomerene Act to exempt the export trade, export trade activities, and methods of operation of certified export trade associations and export trading companies from the antitrust laws. Delays the effectiveness of any certificate upon the notification of the Secretary of Commerce by the Attorney General or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) of disagreement with the decision to issue a certificate. Sets forth the procedure to be followed by any association, company, or export trading company seeking certification under this Act and by the Secretary in issuing such certificates. Permits automatic certification of existing associations. Provides for appeal of the Secretary's denial of certification. Authorizes the Attorney General or the FTC to bring an action to invalidate a certification. Requires the Secretary, in consultation with the Attorney General and the FTC, to publish guidelines for determining whether an association or export trading company will meet the certification requirements. Requires certified associations and export trading companies to submit annual reports to the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to establish within the Department of Commerce an Office of Export Trade. Requires such Office to report annually to the appropriate congressional committees on all East-West trade transactions requiring validated licenses and on the role of U.S. export trading companies in such trade. Grants a temporary exemption from the Sherman Act antitrust provisions for existing associations. Requires, with specified exceptions, that all applications for certification be kept confidential. Authorizes the Secretary to require an association or trading company to modify its operation to be consistent with international obligations of the United States. Directs the President to appoint, with the Senate's advice and consent, a task force, seven years after enactment, to examine the effect of this Act and to make recommendations. Directs the Attorney General to study whether: (1) U.S. business conduct to expand exports conflicts with basic antitrust principles; and (2) a more liberal enforcement policy for overseas activities would impede implementation of the antitrust laws. Requires the Attorney General to identify such conduct which would not warrant prosecution under the antitrust laws. Sets forth the procedures for describing such permissible conduct and disclosing such descriptions. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to intervene in such suits and to provide legal assistance to exporters. Prohibits prosecution under the antitrust laws of exporters who: (1) have notified the Attorney General of their intention to engage in such designated conduct; or (2) receive an approval, or no objection, from the Attorney General concerning proposed transactions. Requires the Attorney General and the Secretary of Commerce to report to Congress concerning implementation of this section. Authorizes appropriations for the Attorney General and the Secretary of Commerce for carrying out the simplification of antitrust procedures. Title V: Amendments to Other Laws That Hinder Exports - Changes the name to the Business Practices and Records Act. Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to require securities issuers to maintain an internal accounting system that provides reasonable assurance that specified accountability and accuracy goals are met. Establishes the degree of previous knowledge necessary to find liability for violations of the accounting standards. Requires only good faith efforts at ensuring compliance by issuers who hold 50 percent or less of the equity of domestic or foreign firms. Transfers from the Security and Exchange Commission to the Department of Justice jurisdiction to enforce the antibribery prohibitions of the FCPA with respect to issuers. Changes the jurisdictional basis of the current corrupt practices prohibition to prohibit bribery "with respect to activities in interstate or foreign commerce" (currently, the basis is use of the mails or interstate commerce "in furtherance" of bribery). Prohibits payments or promises made "directly or indirectly" by a domestic concern to a foreign official if they are made to influence a foreign official's act or induce such an official to violate a legal duty. Prohibits domestic concerns from directing or authorizing such payments. Exempts from such prohibition any payment to a foreign official to facilitate or expedite performance of official duties which is customary in the country where made. Enumerates additional exemptions, including items of value given in return for hospitality or in token of regard and esteem, and marketing or demonstration expenses pertaining to the business presentation. Empowers the Attorney General to undertake any civil investigation which is necessary to enforce the Act. Makes the provision in the Business Practices and Records Act the exclusive Federal law authorizing Federal proceedings against a domestic concern for using the mails or any instrumentality of interstate commerce to violate such Act. Requires an interagency task force to issue guidelines specifying permissible conduct and arrangements associated with common types of export sales arrangements and business contracts and precautionary procedures creating a rebuttable presumption of compliance. Provides for the establishment of a Business Practices and Records Act Review Procedure to answer specific inquiries concerning enforcement of such Act. Requires the Attorney General to issue opinions regarding compliance. Makes such opinions final and binding on all parties if the conduct does not involve a violation. Requires annual reports to Congress by: (1) the Attorney General concerning actions taken pursuant to such Act; and (2) the Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission concerning the reporting requirements. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should negotiate agreements establishing standards of conduct for international business practices, a resolution procedure, and rates of commissions. Directs the President to report to Congress concerning the progress of such negotiations. Requires Congress to review the Business Practices and Records Act after receiving the President's report. Directs the President to report to Congress on the legal and practical consequences of specific action that the United States could take under existing law to: (1) promote international cooperation to prevent bribery of foreign officials, candidates, or parties in third countries; and (2) encourage persons or businesses operating in foreign countries to refrain from bribing foreign officials, candidates, or parties to the disadvantage of U. S. industry. Requires the report to contain recommendations for new legislation and an analysis of the potential effect on U. S. interests of the corruption of foreign officials and political leaders. Requires an export competitiveness impact statement from any issuing authority taking significant action which could affect adversely U.S. exports or the international competitive position of the United States and its exporters. Expresses the sense of Congress that export paperwork must be reduced to encourage export sales. Requires all agencies to minimize paperwork and reporting requirements. Title VI: Export Awareness and Export Promotion Programs - Export Trading Company Act of 1981 - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to promote export trading companies by providing information and by facilitating contacts between producers of exportable goods and export trading companies. Authorizes any banking organization to invest specified amounts in export trading companies upon notifying, but without obtaining the prior approval of, the appropriate Federal banking agency, if such investment does not cause an export trading company to become a subsidiary of such organization. Allows greater investment by Edge Act Corporations not engaged in banking. Permits any banking organization to invest beyond such limitations with prior approval of the appropriate Federal banking agency. Requires prior notification of such agencies in specified circumstances. Sets forth further limitations on export trading companies and investments by banking organizations. Specifies factors to be taken into consideration by the banking agencies. Permits such agencies to impose conditions in approving applications to invest in export trading companies. Requires such agencies to report to the appropriate Congressional committees with their recommendations concerning implementation of this Act, related changes in U.S. law, and effects of ownership of U.S. banks by foreign banking organizations. Provides for judicial review of denial orders in the appropriate U.S. Court of Appeals. Sets forth the grounds for disapproval. Provides for remand for further consideration by the banking agency. Directs the Economic Development Administration and the Small Business Administration to give special weight to export-related benefits when considering applications for loans and guarantees by export trading companies. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 through 1986 for such initial investments and operating expenses. Directs the Export-Import Bank of the United States to provide loan guarantees for expansion to export trading companies or exporters to be secured by accounts receivable or inventories when adequate financing is not otherwise available. Directs the Board of Directors to try to insure that a major share of such guarantees promotes exports from small, medium-size, and minority businesses or agricultural concerns. Amends the Small Business Act to empower the Small Business Administration to extend credit to finance export assistance. Sets a maximum of $750,000 which may be committed to any borrower from the business loan and investment revolving fund. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to enter into cooperative agreements with industrial corporations to develop foreign markets for their products. Requires the Secretary to direct specific market research for the products involved in foreign markets upon entering such agreements. Permits interested industrial corporations to submit a proposal incorporating specific marketing actions to the Secretary. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into a marketing agreement after approving any such proposal. Requires repayment of the Federal share of the costs by the entity entering into such an agreement. Authorizes appropriations to carry out such agreements. Directs each Federal agency and U.S. representative to any international organization to: (1) identify programs affecting the export of U.S. firms' services; (2) make available information concerning such programs; (3) establish programs to publicize export-related programs for services; and (4) modify those programs with an adverse effect on the export of services. Makes the Secretary of Commerce responsible for coordinating such programs. Directs the Department of Treasury to report to Congress concerning the feasibility of extending DISC treatment to the export of services. Title VII: Agricultural Exports - Amends the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act to establish the Agricultural Export Credit Revolving Fund to be available for: (1) the export of, or aid in the development of foreign markets for, agricultural commodities; and (2) loans for the acquisition of facilities in foreign countries to improve the countries' capacities to handle agri-commodities exported from the United States. Authorizes appropriations for such Fund for fiscal years 1982 through 1984. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to report to Congress annually concerning the export credit sales program. Abolishes such fund effective October 1, 1984. Amends the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945 to require the ratio of credit extended by the Export-Import Bank for agricultural exports in comparison with the total amount extended be at least equivalent to the value of agricultural exports in comparison with total value of exports. Specifies exceptions to this requirement. Title VIII: International Agreements - Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the multilateral trade agreement be strongly implemented; and (2) the efforts must continue to secure a freer world trading environment. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to implement a special export subsidy program for agricultural commodities to neutralize the effects of foreign export subsidy programs. Specifies the circumstances required before such program may be implemented. Expresses the sense of Congress that the President should enter into negotiations for international codes of: (1) official export financing; (2) business conduct; (3) reciprocity of antitrust enforcement; and (4) fair trade in services. Requires the President to report to Congress concerning the progress of such negotiations. Title IX: Government Support of Export Goals - Overseas Private Investment Corporation Act of 1981 - Establishes the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) as an independent agency. Sets forth the duties of OPIC. Provides for the capital of OPIC to be paid in through the appropriation process and through transfer from OPIC's earned income. Sets forth the structure of OPIC with a Board of Directors, a President of the Corporation, an Executive Vice President of the Corporation, other officers and staff, and consultants. Authorizes OPIC to issue insurance to eligible investors covering new or existing investments protecting against specified risks. Authorizes OPIC to make arrangements with foreign governments or multilateral organizations for sharing liabilities. Limits the insurance that may be issued to a single investor. Authorizes OPIC to issue guarantees of loans and other investments. Sets forth limitations on such guarantees. Authorizes OPIC to make direct loans to privately owned or mixed publicly and privately owned firms for projects sponsored by or significantly involving small businesses or cooperatives. Limits the circumstances under which OPIC may acquire stock in any other corporation. Authorizes OPIC to initiate and support the identification, assessment, and promotion of private investment opportunities, with specified exceptions. Authorizes OPIC to administer special projects to provide private technical, professional, or managerial assistance in the development of human resources, skills, technology, capital savings, and intermediate financial institutions and cooperatives. Authorizes OPIC to engage in other insurance, reinsurance, and risk sharing activities with other insurance companies, financial institutions, persons, or groups. Limits the amount of reinsurance of liabilities which OPIC may issue. Limits the amount of maximum contingent liability pursuant to insurance or guarantees issued under this Act which may be outstanding at any one time. Establishes the: (1) Direct Investment Fund as a revolving fund to be available for direct investments; and (2) Insurance Reserve and Guaranty Reserve to be available for discharging liabilities. Authorizes appropriations to the investment and guaranty fund in specified circumstances. Authorizes OPIC to issue obligations in specified circumstances in order to discharge liabilities. Requires that all revenues and income transferred to or earned by OPIC be available to carry out OPIC's purposes. Directs OPIC to determine that suitable arrangements exist for protecting OPIC's interests in connection with any insurance, guaranty, or reinsurance issued under this Act. Pledges the full faith and credit of the United States for the full payment and performance of previous obligations. Sets forth conditions with respect to insurance, guaranty, and reinsurance coverage under this Act concerning fees, time limits, fraud, and settlement of disputes. Sets forth administrative provisions and duties applicable to OPIC. Requires OPIC to undertake to broaden the participation of small business, cooperatives, and other small investors in the development of small private enterprise in less developed friendly countries or areas. Directs OPIC to report annually to Congress concerning its operations. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to define "eligible investor" in terms of this Act with respect to housing guarantees. Repeals provisions: (1) prohibiting the transfer of OPIC funds between accounts; (2) authorizing the President to deny assistance to any less developed country which fails to enter into an agreement to institute the investment guaranty program; and (3) establishing OPIC. Declares that nothing in this part shall be construed as terminating any of OPIC's statutory authority. Requires the President of OPIC to submit to the appropriate Congressional committees any necessary technical or conforming amendments. Declares that the potential for U.S. exports shall be a primary decisionmaking factor in considering which projects to include in U.S. foreign aid programs. Declares that the Office of Management and Budget should assure that adequate budget allocations are made available to carry out the programs prescribed in this Act. Declares that the Department of Justice should do what it can to facilitate procedures for exporters. Declares that the Small Business Administration should: (1) be aware of the benefits of export to small business development; and (2) use every opportunity to provide information and assistance to potential exporters. Declares that the U.S. ability to export coal, nuclear power fuels, and other energy materials in a reliable manner should be a key consideration. Directs congressional committees to include in their reports the effect of the bill or resolution on the international competitiveness of the United States. Creates a National Export Council to: (1) serve as a national advisory body on matters relating to United States export trade; (2) act as a liaison among the communities represented by its membership; and (3) provide advice on Federal plans and actions that affect export promotion and development policies which have an impact on those communities represented by its membership. Requires the Council to report annually to the President and the Congress on its activities. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to appoint commercial ministers, counselors, and attaches (with the rank and privileges of other ministers, counselors, and attaches in U.S. embassies and consulates) to: (1) provide trade and commercial service; (2) engage in the promotion of U.S. exports; (3) file semiannual reports to the Secretary on market, industrial, and commodity conditions in their districts and on the implementation of multilateral and bilateral trade agreements; and (4) maintain current data on the commercial standing and capacity of foreign firms within their districts. Provides for domestic assignment, office logistics, allowances, and benefits of such ministers, counselors, and attaches. Directs the Comptroller General to report to Congress with any recommendations concerning: (1) the organization of international trading and financing programs in the United States; (2) the effectiveness of foreign export promotion programs; and (3) the trade activities of specified Federal agencies. Expresses the sense of Congress that the appropriate congressional committees should review periodically the trade organization of the U.S. Government.
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1981
Handgun Crime Control Act of 1981 - Title I: Amendments to Chapter 44 of Title 18, United States Code - Amends the Federal criminal code to direct the Attorney General to approve for manufacture, assembly, importation, sale, or transfer any handgun model which is generally recognized as particularly suitable for or readily adaptable to sporting purposes. Makes it unlawful for any licensed manufacturer, importer, dealer, or collector to manufacture, assemble, sell, deliver, or transfer any handgun (other than a curio or relic) which is not an approved model. Makes it unlawful for any non-licensee to sell or transfer any handgun (other than curio or relic) unless such person knows or has reasonable cause to believe such handgun is an approved model. Prohibits a pawnbroker from being licensed as a dealer in handguns or handgun ammunition. Directs the Attorney General to review State laws providing for permits to carry and purchase handguns and certify those meeting specified standards. Allows an individual possessing a permit under a certified State law to purchase a handgun if certain requirements are met. Makes it unlawful for a licensed dealer to transfer a handgun to a person not holding a permit under a certified State law unless certain procedures are followed. Requires in any such case that the transferee appear in person at the dealer's business premises. Requires the dealer, before delivery of the handgun, to forward a copy of a sworn statement by the transferee to the chief local law enforcement officer of the transferee's place of residence and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for an identity and record check. Prohibits delivery until 21 days after submission of the sworn statement. Makes it unlawful for any licensed importer, manufacturer, dealer, or collector to sell to the same person, or for any non-licensee to purchase, three or more handguns during a period of one year without the prior approval of the Attorney General. Makes it unlawful for any person to fail to report the loss, theft, or disappearance of a handgun in his possession to the authorities within 24 hours after discovering such loss. Requires all licensed importers, manufacturers, and dealers to maintain accurate records of all handgun transfers. Makes whoever negligently transfers a handgun in violation of this Act civilly liable for the death or injury of an individual as a result of the use of such handgun by the transferee during commission of an offense. Makes it unlawful for any person to transport any firearm or ammunition in interstate or foreign commerce if such transportation violates a State law in a place through which the firearm was shipped or an ordinance at the place of sale, delivery, or other disposition. Increases the license fee for handgun dealers from $10 to $500 and for manufacturers and importers from $50 to $5,000. Makes it unlawful for any illegal alien, dishonorably discharged member of the Armed Forces, or U.S. citizen who has renounced such citizenship to possess, transport, or receive any firearm or ammunition. Amends the Omnibus Crime Control Act of 1970 to revise and increase the mandatory penalties for using or carrying a firearm during commission of a Federal felony. Deletes the requirement that the firearm be carried "illegally." Increases the additional penalty imposed for such offense to two to ten years' imprisonment for a first offense (currently, one to ten years) and five to 25 years for a second offense (currently, two to 25 years). Extends to first offenders the stipulations, currently applicable only to second offenders, that the court not suspend any sentence, grant probation, or impose concurrent sentences, unless the court finds the existence of enumerated mitigating circumstances. Adds a term of parole ineligibility as an additional restriction on first offenders (two years) and subsequent offenders (five years). Title II: Gun Control Functions Transferred to the Attorney General - Transfers to the Attorney General all functions of the Secretary of the Treasury under the Gun Control Act of 1968. Establishes the Firearms Safety and Abuse Control Administration within the Department of Justice. Requires the Attorney General to report annually to Congress on the activities of the Administration. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Directs the Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations, in consultation with the U.S. Conference of Mayors and the National League of Cities, to report on the intergovernmental problems involved in controlling illicit handgun traffic and the effectiveness of the Gun Control Act of 1968.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1981
Small Business Innovation Research Act of 1981 - Amends the Small Business Act to direct the Small Business Administration (SBA) to: (1) maintain an information program to provide small businesses an opportunity to participate in Federal small business innovation research (SBIR) programs; (2) coordinate a schedule for release of agency SBIR solicitations and prepare a master release schedule; (3) monitor SBIR programs within Federal agencies; and (4) report annually to the Congressional Small Business Committees on the SBIR programs. Requires each Federal agency with a research and development budget in excess of $100,000,000 in fiscal year 1982 or any subsequent fiscal year to spend a specified percentage of its budget in connection with an SBIR program. Requires each Federal agency with a research and development budget in excess of $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1982 or any subsequent fiscal year to establish specific goals for funding research and development agreements with small businesses. Directs each Federal agency with an SBIR program to report annually to the SBA the number of awards over $10,000 in amount made under the SBIR program and to concerns other than small business concerns. Directs the Administrator of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy, in conjunction with the SBA, to promulgate regulations for the conduct of the SBIR programs. States that this Act does not authorize the appropriation of funds.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1981
Voting Rights Act Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to extend from August 6, 1982, to August 6, 1992: (1) the time period during which jurisdictions covered by the triggering mechanism must not have used a test or device to deny the right to vote on account of race in order to be released from coverage; and (2) the time period during which changes in voting laws must be precleared with the Federal Government. Extends the bilingual election requirements from August 6, 1985, to August 6, 1992. Restates the prohibition against denying the right to vote based on race to prohibit any State from imposing voting practices "in a manner which results in a denial or abridgement" of the right to vote.
United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1981
Financial Integrity Act of 1981 - Amends the Accounting and Auditing Act of 1950 to require the head of each executive agency to prepare and transmit to the President an annual report on the adequacy of the agency's systems of internal accounting and administrative control. Requires the report to include detailed plans for correcting any inadequacy. Directs the Comptroller General of the United States to: (1) establish guidelines for evaluating such systems; and (2) define internal auditing and administrative controls to prevent waste or misuse of agency funds or property and to assure accountability of assets.
United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1981
Waives certain requirements of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 with respect to the consideration of S. 786 (International Development Association and African Development Bank).
United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1981
Commends Secret Service Agents Timothy McCarthy and Jerry Parr and Metropolitan Police Officer Thomas Delahanty for their performance in the line of duty with respect to the assassination attempt on the life of the President of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 1 April 1981
International Communication Agency Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1982 and 1983 - Authorizes appropriations for the International Communication Agency (ICA) for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 to carry out certain international communication, educational, cultural, and exchange programs. Amends the United States Information and Educational Exchange Act of 1948 to permit any Federal employee who has special scientific, technical, or professional qualifications to be assigned to a foreign government (presently only U.S. citizens can be so assigned), for non-military purposes. Authorizes such assignee, under certain conditions, to accept an office in such foreign government. Authorizes appropriations to be made available under joint resolutions making continuing appropriations for fiscal year 1982. Authorizes the Director of the ICA to purchase: (1) passenger vehicles with right hand drive and other special requirements for use abroad without regard to maximum price limitations; and (2) motion picture, radio, and television producers' liability insurance to protect interests in intellectual property. Provides for the principal assistant of an ICA Associate Director to perform the duties of such Associate Director who dies, resigns, or is sick or absent. Authorizes the making of procurement contracts for periods which do not exceed five years if: (1) appropriations are adequate for the first fiscal year; (2) government need is reasonably firm and continuing; (3) such contract will encourage effective competition or promote economics in performance and operation; and (4) such method will not inhibit small business participation. Requires such contracts to be cancelled if funds are not available for continuation into subsequent fiscal years. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to hold foreign currencies derived from conversions made pursuant to the obligation of informational media guaranties which are unavailable for or exceed U.S. requirements. Authorizes the sale of such currencies to Federal agencies for dollars if the foreign country from which the currencies derive and the United States agree. Excludes from the definition of "public work" in the Defense Base Act certain exhibits or demonstrations of U.S. economic accomplishments and cultural attainments. Amends the International Communication Agency Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1980 and 1981, to authorize appropriations for the ICA for fiscal year 1981 to liquidate the outstanding notes and accrued interest thereon assumed in the operation of the informational media guarantee program.
United States · United States Congress · 1 April 1981
Amends the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to direct the Secretary of State to establish an independent Office of Foreign Missions within the Department of State. Permits the Secretary to authorize the Director of such Office to: (1) assist Federal, State and municipal agencies to ascertain the benefits due a foreign mission; (2) provide benefits for or on behalf of a foreign mission; and (3) support the secure and efficient operation of foreign missions. Authorizes the Secretary to require a foreign mission to obtain benefits from or through the Director on terms approved by the Secretary if providing the benefits is necessary to: (1) facilitate relations between the United States and a sending State (state represented by such mission); (2) protect U.S. interests; (3) adjust for costs and procedures of obtaining benefits for U.S. missions abroad; or (4) assist in resolving a dispute affecting U.S. interests. Authorizes the Secretary to require a foreign mission to comply with certain terms, including paying the Director a fee and waiving any recourse against any governmental authority or employee, as a condition to: (1) the performance in the United States of any contract; (2) the acquisition of any real property; or (3) the application for or acceptance of any benefit. Authorizes the Secretary to require any foreign mission to: (1) notify the Director before such mission acquires or disposes of any real property; and (2) divest itself of or forgo the use of any real property acquired without notice to the Director or exceeding the limits placed on real property available to U.S. missions in the sending state. Authorizes the Secretary to protect and dispose of any property of a foreign mission which has ceased conducting governmental activities and has not designated a protecting power. Makes the location and dimensions of any foreign mission's real property in the District of Columbia subject to the approval of the National Capital Planning Commission. Sets forth the criteria for the Commission's determinations about such real property. Provides for the administration and management of the Office of Foreign Missions. Makes the provisions of this Act applicable to public international organizations. Prohibits compliance with this Act by a foreign mission from being deemed a waiver of any immunity. Prohibits making benefits available to foreign missions contrary to this Act. Makes the provisions of this Act severable. Amends the Diplomatic Relations Act to extend the privileges and immunities of the Vienna Convention to the missions of non-parties to the Convention. Authorizes the President to determine what privileges and immunities should be extended to a foreign mission.
United States · United States Congress · 1 April 1981
Peace Corps Act Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Peace Corps Act to authorize appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983. Requires the Peace Corps to give particular attention to programs which tend to integrate disabled people into developing countries' national economies. Removes present malpractice protection for Peace Corps volunteers. Applies the malpractice protection currently covering State Department personnel to Peace Corps volunteers and personnel. Removes the applicability of the Mutual Defense Control Act of 1951 to the functions of the Peace Corps.
United States · United States Congress · 1 April 1981
Board for International Broadcasting Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1981, 1982, and 1983 - Amends the Board for International Broadcasting Act of 1973 to increase the authorized appropriation for fiscal year 1981 to $100,300,000, and to authorize $98,317,000 to be appropriated for each of fiscal years 1982 and 1983.
United States · United States Congress · 27 March 1981
Constitutional Amendment - Requires Congress to adopt for each year a budget which sets forth the total receipts and outlays of the United States. Prohibits the adoption of any budget in which outlays exceed total receipts, unless three-fifths of each House of Congress approve such budget. Prohibits Congress from passing and the President from signing any bill which would cause the total outlays for any year to exceed the total expenditures in the budget for such year. Prohibits the retention of receipts in any year for use of the Treasury in an amount which exceeds as a proportion of the national income, the amount retained for the prior year, unless a bill directed at approving a specific increase in such proportion has been passed by a majority of each House. Permits Congress to waive the provisions of this Act with respect to any single year in which a declaration of war is in effect.
United States · United States Congress · 27 March 1981
Expresses the sense of the United States Senate that: (1) Poland's problems can and should be solved by the Polish people; (2) any outside intervention would violate international law and solemn commitments; (3) officially sanctioned internal use of force would violate the prevailing spirit of cooperative negotiations; (4) the United States could not be indifferent to either such development which could have grave consequences for East-West relations; and (5) the Senate supports the President's efforts to ease Poland's economic difficulties providing repression or foreign intervention do not occur.
United States · United States Congress · 26 March 1981
Amends the Clayton Act to prohibit any foreign government from suing for damages for an injury caused by a violation of United States antitrust laws unless: (1) similar conduct was a violation of the laws of the foreign government during the same period and such laws were enforced; and (2) the United States may recover damages for a similar injury to its business property under the laws of the foreign government. Limits the amount that a foreign government may recover to actual damages and the cost of the suit.
United States · United States Congress · 26 March 1981
Amends the Powerplant and Industrial Fuel Use Act of 1978 to permit local distribution companies to provide natural gas service to residential customers for use in outdoor lighting fixtures installed before the enactment of such Act and for which natural gas was being provided on the date such Act was enacted. Requires each local distribution company, in accordance with rules established by the Secretary of Energy, to: (1) inform its customers periodically of the amount of natural gas consumed by outdoor lighting; and (2) report the method to the Secretary.
United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1981
Amends the Bretton Woods Agreements Act to authorize the U.S. Governor of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development to: (1) vote to increase the authorized capital stock of the Bank; and (2) subscribe on behalf of the United States to a certain number of shares subject to obtaining the necessary appropriations. Authorizes appropriations to pay for such subscription.
United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1981
Title I: International Development Association - Amends the International Development Association Act to authorize the U.S. Governor to pay a specified sum, subject to obtaining the necessary appropriations, as the U.S. contribution to the sixth replenishment of the resources of the Association. Title II: African Development Bank - African Development Bank Act - Authorizes the President to accept membership for the United States in the African Development Bank. Provides for the appointment of a Bank Governor and an Alternate Governor. Makes U.S. participation in such Bank subject to the National Advisory Council on International Monetary and Financial Problems. Prohibits unauthorized: (1) subscriptions to additional shares in such Bank; (2) agreements increasing U.S. obligations or modifying the purpose of such Bank; or (3) financing for such Bank. Requires any Federal Reserve bank to act as the Bank's depository at the request of such Bank. Specifies the shares of such Bank to which the President is authorized to subscribe. Sets forth venue and jurisdiction provisions for such Bank. Exempts such Bank's obligations from specified limitations on underwriting investment securities and for purposes of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Requires such Bank to file reports as determined appropriate by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Authorizes the Commission to suspend the exemptions from the Securities laws. Directs such Bank to carry out U.S. policies concerning human rights and the development of light capital technologies. Makes U.S. citizen representatives to such Bank eligible for civil service benefits. Title III: International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and Asian Development Bank - Amends the Bretton Woods Agreements Act and the Asian Development Bank Act to provide that any subscription to additional shares of such Banks shall only be effective to the extent as provided in advance in appropriation Acts (presently may be made only after the necessary amount has been appropriated). Title IV: Inter-American Development Bank and Asian Development Bank - Amends the Inter-American Development Bank Act to authorize the U.S. Governor to contribute, subject to obtaining the necessary appropriations, a specified sum to the Fund for Special Operations. Authorizes specified sums to be appropriated for the U.S. subscription to the Bank's capital stock and for the U.S. contribution to the Fund for Special Operations. Amends the Asian Development Bank Act to authorize the U.S. Governor to contribute, subject to obtaining the necessary appropriations, a specified sum to the Asian Development Fund. Authorizes a specified sum to be appropriated to pay such contribution. Title V: Effective Date and Availability of Funds - Stipulates that authorized funds are not available for obligation prior to October 1, 1981.
United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1981
Title I: Department of State - Department of State Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1982 and 1983 - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 for the Department of State to be used for: (1) administration of foreign affairs; (2) international organizations and conferences; (3) international commissions; and (4) migration and refugee assistance. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to authorize the waiver of the requirement of possession of a valid nonimmigrant visa or border crossing identification card by a nonimmigrant alien if such alien (1) is a nonimmigrant visitor for less than 90 days; (2) is a national of a country which extends or is prepared to extend reciprocal privileges to U.S. citizens and nationals; and (3) has been determined not to represent a threat to the United States. Sets forth the manner of determining whether such alien's country extends the necessary reciprocal privileges. Prohibits admission of an alien who otherwise meets the above conditions if such alien failed to comply with the conditions of a previous admission. Amends the passport provisions to authorize the Secretary of State to set the amount of the fees for issuance of a passport and for executing passport applications. Extends the duration of a passport's validity from five to ten years. Authorizes the Secretary to limit a passport's validity to a shorter period in an individual case or on a general basis pursuant to regulation. Amends the United Nations Participation Act of 1945 to provide for living quarters for certain U.S. representatives to the United Nations rather than only for the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Credits any payments made by U.S. personnel for such living quarters to the fund used by the Secretary to rent the premises. Directs the President to appoint a U.S. representative to the Vienna office of the United Nations. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 for payment of the U.S. share of expenses of the science and technology agreements between the United States and Yugoslavia and the United States and Poland. Requires $81,000 of the authorized appropriations for the administration of foreign affairs to be available for an ex gratia payment to Yugoslavia to express U.S. concern about injuries sustained by a Yugoslav national who was attacked in New York City. Deletes the limitations under current Federal laws on the authorized appropriations for payment of the U.S. share of the expenses of the: (1) Pan American Institute of Geography and History; (2) Hague Conference on Private International Law and of the International (Rome) Institute for the Unification of Private Law; and (3) Pan American Railway Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1981
Industrial Energy Security Tax Incentives Act of 1981 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the energy percentage, for purposes of the investment tax credit, in the case of certain alternative energy property, specially defined energy property, recycling equipment, cogeneration equipment, and qualified industrial energy efficiency property. Defines "qualified industrial energy efficiency property" as property which is part of a modification to an industrial or commercial facility and which: (1) results in decreased energy use per unit of output; (2) results in an aggregate annual decrease in energy consumption by the facility; (3) does not increase the total consumption of oil and natural gas; (4) is constructed or acquired after January 1, 1981; and (5) is depreciable or amortizable property with a useful life of three years or more. Excludes from such definition property for which the energy percentage is otherwise claimed. Extends the period for which such percentage may be applied with respect to such property which is part of projects for which certain construction and financial commitments have been met. Sets forth a formula for determining reductions or increases in the credit based on a ratio between the energy percentage amount and Btu savings. Reduces the credit attributable to application of the energy percentage where the use of qualified industrial energy efficiency property results in an increase of more than ten percent in the capacity of the facility. Provides that the applicable percentage of such property, for purposes of determining qualified investment, shall be 100 percent, without regard to the useful life of the property. Revises the definition of "alternative energy property" to: (1) include equipment for converting an alternate substance into electricity, up to the electrical transmission state; (2) define "boiler"; (3) include heat treating furnaces which use as the primary fuel an alternate substance, melt furnaces which use no fuel or use as the primary fuel an alternate substance, and modification equipment which is used in a facility which uses as the primary fuel an alternate substance and which reduces the use of fuels other than alternate substances. Expands the definition of "alternate substance" to include petroleum coke, petroleum pitch, synthetic fuels, and any product derived from an alternate substance. Excepts taxpayers from the primary fuel requirement in specified circumstances. Revises the definition of "specially defined energy property." Revises the definition of "recycling equipment" to: (1) include property used for the unloading, transfer, and storage of solid waste; and (2) include property used in the recovery of additional reusable resources and materials. Includes in the definition of "cogeneration equipment" property comprising a system for the generation of mechanical shaft power. Excludes as a fuel, for purposes of the definition of "biomass property," certain recyclable waste paper. Excludes from treatment as energy property any specially defined energy property or qualified industrial energy efficiency property used as public utility property unless such property is installed in connection with specified types of generating facilities. Provides rules regarding: (1) the replacement of equipment or processes by energy property; and (2) energy property which increases the operating capacity of a process or facility. Treats as qualified industrial energy efficiency property reasonably necessary for the operation of alternative energy property, specially defined energy property, recycling equipment, cogeneration equipment, or qualified industrial energy efficiency property.
United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1981
Requires an embargo on the export of any goods or services to the Soviet Union during any period in which a grain embargo is in effect against such country.
![Official portrait of Sen. Percy, Charles H. [R-IL]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/p000222_200.jpg)