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Official portrait of Sen. Pressler, Larry [R-SD]

Sen. Pressler, Larry [R-SD]

United States · Official source

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3,244 records where Sen. Pressler, Larry [R-SD] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Bill· SS. 927 (100th)reported

Federal Cave Resources Protection Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1987

Federal Cave Resources Protection Act of 1987 - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary of the Interior, as appropriate, to take such actions as are necessary to protect cave resources on Federal lands, including: (1) restricting the use of such resources; (2) entering into volunteer management agreements with the caving community; and (3) appointing advisory committees. Restricts the release of information concerning cave location to protect the resource, requiring the Governor of a State in which a cave resource is located or a bona fide research institution to request location information in writing along with a commitment to protect the confidentiality of such information. Establishes a permit program for the collection or removal of natural resources from caves on Federal lands. Requires a permittee to post a bond or cash deposit to offset potential damage. Revokes permits for violations of this Act or permit conditions. Excludes Federal cave resources within the National Park or Wildlife Refuge Systems from this program. Imposes criminal penalties for the alteration of a cave or interference with cave resources, including the sale or exchange of cave resources removed without permission. Establishes civil penalties for violations of this Act or permit conditions. Authorizes appropriations. Places permit fees and fines in a special fund in the Treasury for cave resource management.

Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 42 (100th)open

A concurrent resolution to condemn human rights violations.

United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1987

Declares that the Congress: (1) condemns the violations of human rights engaged in by the Castro Government in Cuba; (2) urges all appropriate international bodies to pressure that government to live up to internationally accepted human rights standards; (3) welcomes the fact that 18 members of the United Nations Human Rights Commission voted to put the question of Cuban human rights performance on the Commission's agenda; (4) regrets that the Commission, by a one vote margin, decided not to put the issue on its agenda; and (5) regrets that the democracies of the Western Hemisphere failed to vote unanimously to put the question on the agenda.

Bill· SS. 912 (100th)referred

A bill to amend the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to permit the prepayment of Federal financing bank loans made to rural electrification and telephone systems, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 3 April 1987

Amends the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to permit Rural Electrification Administration borrowers to prepay Federal Financing Bank loans without penalties if: (1) private capital is used to replace such loans; and (2) any savings will be used to avoid future rate increases, passed on to customers, or used to improve the borrower's financial strength.

Bill· SS. 889 (100th)open

Satellite Television Fair Marketing Act

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1987

Satellite Television Fair Marketing Act - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit the encrypting of satellite programming from the Public Broadcasting Service and the Armed Forces Radio and Television Service. Requires anyone who encrypts satellite delivered programming for private viewing to: (1) make it available for private viewing by home satellite antenna users; (2) establish reasonable character and financial criteria for distributors of satellite delivered programming and to not discriminate in price, terms, or conditions among distributors offering similar distribution services; and (3) conduct such encryption according to Federal Communications Commission (FCC)-approved standards designed to comply with specified criteria. Requires the FCC-approved standards to provide the public interest benefits of a universal encryption system permitting decryption by cable television subscribers and home satellite users. Authorizes aggrieved persons to commence civil actions to enforce this Act. Requires the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to conduct a study of pricing and distribution terms of satellite television programming to determine whether the programming market is developing competitively. Authorizes the FTC to establish remedies necessary to produce adequate competition. Requires the FCC to begin a rulemaking proceeding on improving access to network signals for rural Americans.

Bill· SS. 887 (100th)open

Older American Act Amendments of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1987

Older Americans Act of 1987 - Amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to authorize appropriations for FY 1988 through 1992 for the Federal Council on the Aging. Authorizes the Commissioner on Aging to request the technical assistance and cooperation of other agencies and units of the Department of Health and Human Services in administering programs providing grants for State and community programs on aging. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1992 for State and community programs on aging which include programs providing nutrition services, supportive services, surplus commodities, or cash payments in lieu of food commodities, to older individuals. Authorizes States to transfer up to 30 percent of their grant amounts for programs on aging between support service and nutrition programs. Adds the National Association of State Units on Aging to the list of organizations with whom the Commissioner is to consult when developing quality and efficiency criteria for State home-delivered meal programs for the aged. Directs the Commissioner to provide funding for research activities which will yield information, within three years of this Act's enactment, concerning the aged and their needs. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1991 for: (1) research and discretionary programs concerning the aged and the training of personnel working on behalf of the aged; (2) the older American community service employment program; (3) grants to Indian tribes for the provision of supportive and nutritional services to older Indians; and (4) the older Americans personal health education and training program.

Bill· SS. 888 (100th)referred

Pipeline Safety Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1987

Pipeline Safety Act of 1987 - Amends the Hazardous Liquid Pipeline Safety Act of 1979 to direct the Secretary of Transportation (the Secretary) to promulgate regulations establishing Federal hazardous liquid pipeline safety standards, including requirements for release detection, prevention, and correction, for the transportation of hazardous liquids and for pipeline facilities. Sets forth the factors which the Secretary may consider when promulgating such regulations. Permits the States to adopt standards or requirements that are more stringent than Federal standards or requirements. Directs the Secretary to provide that the Federal safety regulations include the requirement that: (1) any pipeline facilities operator participate in any public safety program or "one-call system"; and (2) any persons engaged in demolition, excavation, tunneling, or construction near or affecting any pipeline facility shall contact the appropriate public safety program or "one-call system" prior to such activities in order to ascertain the location of underground pipeline facilities. Sets forth notification requirements for pipeline facility operators regarding such facility's location, and prescribes requirements regarding: (1) release detection; (2) shut-off valves; (3) operating pressure; (4) design requirements; (5) pipeline inventory; and (6) financial responsibility. Makes the Federal standards and requirements applicable to both interstate and intrastate pipelines. (Currently such requirements apply only to interstate facilities.) Increases from $1,000 to $25,000 the civil penalty imposed for violations of this Act. Increases from $25,000 to $250,000 the criminal penalty imposed for violations of this Act. Establishes a criminal fine and prison term for the willful defacement, damage, or removal of a federally required pipeline sign or right-of-way marker. Amends the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986 to include within its coverage pipelines and pipeline facilities whether or not the liquids in such facilities have been included under such Act's coverage. Directs the Secretary to establish a training and certification program for personnel retained by the States to inspect and audit pipeline facilities, and for persons engaged in construction and design of such facilities. Authorizes the commencement of citizens' civil action suits against the Secretary for failure to perform a duty under this Act. Amends the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 to increase from $3,000,000 to $40,000,000 the fees assessed against hazardous liquids transported by pipelines. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1988 through 1992.

Bill· SS. 853 (100th)referred

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Authorization Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 26 March 1987

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Authorization Act of 1987 - Title I: Authorizations of Appropriations - Amends the following Acts to authorize appropriations for FY 1988 and 1989: (1) the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966; and (2) the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act with respect to bumper standards, automobile consumer information, and odometer requirements. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation (the Secretary) to derive a specified additional amount from unobligated highway safety program funds to implement a national program encouraging the use of safety belts and passive restraints (airbags) in passenger automobiles. Title II: Side Impact Protection and Crashworthiness Data - Directs the Secretary to reopen certain rulemaking proceedings to implement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 214. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish performance criteria for improved occupant protection in side impacts; and (2) issue an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to extend the applicability of such Standard to light trucks, vans, and multipurpose passenger vehicles. Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to direct the Secretary to enter into arrangements with the National Academy of Sciences to study means of establishing a method for calculating a uniform numerical rating enabling consumers to compare meaningful passenger automobile crashworthiness data. Prescribes the contents of such study. Requires that a report of such study be submitted to the Secretary and the Congress within 19 months after the date of enactment of this Act. Prescribes schedules for: (1) obtaining public comment on implementation of National Academy recommendations; (2) determining whether an objectively based system of comparative crashworthiness data can be established; (3) promulgating a rule to establish such a system, if the determination is positive; (4) submitting the proposed rule for review to specified congressional committees; (5) waiting 60 calendar days after such submission, unless both committees notify the Secretary that they have no objection to the rule; and (6) establishing (by rule) procedures requiring auto dealers to make comparative crashworthiness data available to prospective customers. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Amends the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 to direct the Secretary to: (1) establish a schedule for use in ensuring compliance with each Federal motor vehicle safety standard established under this Act which the Secretary determines is capable of being tested; (2) establish written guidelines and procedures for conducting investigations regarding noncompliance with the regulations issued under this Act; and (3) establish criteria for the determination and imposition of civil penalties for such noncompliance. Amends Federal law regarding State highway safety programs to mandate that each State shall include among its uniform highway safety standards a uniform system for handicapped parking. Defines the elements of such a system. Directs the Secretary to annually evaluate and report to the Congress on State compliance with such mandate. Directs the Secretary to initiate a rulemaking to: (1) revise specified motor vehicle safety standards regarding multipurpose passenger vehicles; (2) review the classification system for vehicles with a gross weight under 10,000 pounds to determine whether certain Federal motor vehicle safety standards would apply; and (3) amend Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 208 to provide that lap and shoulder seatbelt protection for outboard rear seat passengers should be installed in passenger automobiles after specified dates. Mandates that a specified percentage of certain authorized appropriations shall be used to disseminate consumer information regarding retrofitting passenger automobiles with lap and shoulder rear seatbelts. Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to direct the Secretary to: (1) promulgate regulations establishing passenger motor vehicle bumper system labeling requirements; and (2) arrange with the National Academy of Sciences to conduct a study of specified aspects of the effectiveness of State motor vehicle safety inspection programs for transmittal to certain congressional committees. Amends the the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 to authorize the Secretary of Transportation to direct the manufacturer of a defective motor vehicle or motor vehicle part to send a second notification if the Secretary determines that the first notification sent by such manufacturer has not resulted in an adequate number of vehicles (or items of equipment) being returned for remedy. Requires any lessor who receives notification of a defective motor vehicle part pertaining to any leased motor vehicle to send a copy of such notice to the lessee. Provides that a dealer may only sell or lease a motor vehicle (or motor vehicle item) for which a safety defect notice has been received only if: (1) the defect or failure to comply has been remedied before delivery under sale or lease; or (2) an enforcement order has been set aside or restrained. Directs the Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to conduct a study of the use of darkened windshields and window glass in passenger automobiles, and to submit the results of such study to certain congressional committees. Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to prohibit any State from issuing a motor vehicle registration card unless the application for such card contains specified odometer information. Requires the Secretary to promulgate rules regarding falsification and unauthorized alteration of title and mileage information. Prohibits the Secretary from approving State alternate motor vehicle mileage disclosure requirements unless the Secretary determines that such alternate method is consistent with the purposes of such Act.

Bill· SS. 819 (100th)referred

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to permit taxpayers to elect to deduct either State and local sales taxes or State income taxes.

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1987

Repeals specified provisions of the Tax Reform Act of 1986 that eliminated the income tax deduction for State and local sales taxes. Provides that the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 shall be applied and administered as if such provisions had not been enacted. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to permit a taxpayer to select an income tax deduction for either: (1) State and local income taxes; or (2) State and local sales taxes.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 174 (100th)referred

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate condemning the Soviet-Cuban build-up in Angola and the severe human rights violations of the Marxist regime in Angola.

United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1987

Expresses the sense of the Senate that the United States, so long as Soviet and Cuban military forces occupy Angola, should encourage peace and national reconciliation in Angola through a negotiated settlement to the military conflict and stress the holding of free elections as outlined in the 1975 Alvor Agreement through: (1) support for Soviet and Cuban withdrawal and a negotiated peaceful settlement; and (2) consistent efforts by the President and the Secretary of State to convey to the Soviets that their continued presence in Angola hinders future U.S.-Soviet relations. Requests the President to use his authorities under the Export Administration Act to block U.S. business transactions which conflict with U.S. security interests in Angola. Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Secretary of State should: (1) review U.S. policy with respect to the U.S. refusal to recognize the Marxist Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), the human rights record of the MPLA, and the worst 1985 voting record supporting U.S. interests in the United Nations; and (2) transmit to the Congress a report on the U.S. policy review, together with a determination on the current U.S. trade and business policy with respect to Angola.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 172 (100th)referred

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate with respect to United States policy objectives in providing assistance to the Nicaraguan democratic resistance.

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1987

Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) U.S. assistance to the Nicaraguan resistance is provided to counter threats to U.S. security by Soviet military buildup and not to overthrow any government; and (2) such assistance could be terminated if all Soviet, Cuban, and other East Bloc military personnel, equipment, and aid are withdrawn from Nicaragua.

Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 36 (100th)referred

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress with respect to the use of ethanol and methanol in reducing air pollution, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1987

Expresses the sense of the Congress that the use of ethanol blended and methanol fuels should be established to reduce air pollution and surplus grain stocks and that such use should be encouraged through information and technical assistance.

Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 35 (100th)open

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of the Congress regarding the imposition of charges for outpatient care provided in medical facilities of the uniformed services to retired members of the Armed Forces, dependents of retired members, and dependents of members serving on active duty.

United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1987

Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Secretary of Defense should not impose any charge for outpatient medical care provided in medical facilities of the uniformed services to retired members, their dependents, or to the dependents of members serving on active duty.

Bill· SS. 747 (100th)open

A bill to establish a motor carrier administration in the Department of Transportation, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1987

Establishes the Motor Carrier Administration in the Department of Transportation, to be headed by an Administrator appointed by the President who shall report directly to the Secretary of Transportation. Creates the position of Deputy Administrator, to be appointed by the Secretary. Confers upon the Administrator duties and powers related to motor carriers and motor carrier safety under specified law. States that a decision of the Administrator implementing duties involving notice and hearing requirements is administratively final. Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress regarding a review of those Interstate Commerce Commission activities affecting motor carrier transportation which could be more efficiently performed by the Motor Carrier Administration.

Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 31 (100th)referred

A concurrent resolution commending the Czechoslovak human rights organization Charter 77, on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of its establishment, for its courageous contributions to the achievement of the aims of the Helsinki Final Act.

United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1987

States that the Congress: (1) commends the Czechoslovak human rights organization Charter 77, on the tenth anniversary of its establishment of the aims of the Helsinki Final Act; (2) calls upon the Government of Czechoslovakia to cease its persecution of those involved in Charter 77 and other human rights activities; and (3) commends the U.S. representatives to the Vienna Review Meeting of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe for raising the persecution issue with Czechoslovakian representatives.

Bill· SS. 717 (100th)referred

Western Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Consent Act

United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1987

Interstate Compact - Western Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Consent Act - Grants congressional approval to the Western Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact which provides for cooperation among the States of South Dakota, Arizona and any other eligible State in the management of low-level radioactive waste.

Bill· SS. 686 (100th)referred

A bill to amend the Agricultural Act of 1949 to limit the quantity of milk protein products that may be imported into the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1987

Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to limit annual imports of milk protein products (casein) to 50 percent of the average annual amount imported during the period 1981 through 1985. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a preferential import licensing system for such products based on the availability of domestic substitutes.

Bill· SS. 666 (100th)referred

Product Liability Reform Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1987

Product Liability Reform Act - Title I: States that this Act governs any civil action brought against a manufacturer or product seller for harm caused by a product. Supersedes any inconsistent State law regarding recovery in such actions. States that U.S. district courts shall not have jurisdiction over civil actions pursuant to this Act. Title II: Establishes procedures by which any party may serve upon any other party offers to settle claims. Holds any offeree who rejects a settlement offer and fails to substantially prevail in the action liable for the claimant's attorney's fees and costs. Allows the parties to pursue State established or recognized voluntary alternative dispute resolution procedures. Allows the court to assess reasonable attorney's fees and costs against any offeree who unreasonably refuses to proceed pursuant to such procedures. Title III: Allows any person seeking recovery for harm caused by a product to bring a civil action against the product's manufacturer or seller. Establishes uniform standards of product seller liability. Subjects a product seller to liability if the claimant establishes by a preponderance of the evidence that: (1) the product seller did not exercise reasonable care with respect to the product; or (2) the product failed to conform to an express warranty made by the product seller. Treats a product seller as a manufacturer where: (1) the manufacturer is not subject to service of process under the laws of any State in which the action might be brought; or (2) the court determines that the claimant would be unable to enforce a judgment against the manufacturer. Allows punitive damages to be awarded, if permitted by applicable law, where the claimant establishes by clear and convincing evidence that the harm suffered was the result of conduct manifesting the manufacturer's or seller's conscious, flagrant indifference to the safety of those who might be harmed by the product. Provides that punitive damages may not be awarded where: (1) a drug or medical device was approved or is generally recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration; or (2) an aircraft was certified by the Federal Aviation Administration under the Federal Aviation Act of 1958. Establishes uniform statutes of limitation and repose for product liability actions. Imposes penalties for the destruction or concealment of material relevant to product liability actions. Requires any damage award to be reduced by the amount of workers' compensation benefits paid. States that the liability of each defendant for noneconomic damages shall be several and not joint. Bars recovery where the claimant in a product liability action is under the influence of alcohol or any drug and more than 50 percent responsible for the harm. Title IV: Requires the Secretary of Commerce to provide the Congress with an annual report analyzing the impact of this Act on product liability insurance.

Bill· SS. 630 (100th)reported

A bill to prohibit the use on Cyprus of military equipment provided to Turkey by the United States and to require that certain information regarding activities on Cyprus of the Turkish armed forces be included in the periodic reports submitted to Congress.

United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1987

Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to prohibit U.S. defense articles from being transferred to, or used on, Cyprus by Turkey. Declares that such prohibition shall not apply to the extent that the President certifies to the Congress that: (1) there has been an armed attack on one or more parties to the North Atlantic Treaty or that such an attack is imminent; and (2) the President has approved the transfer of such defense articles. Requires the President to report periodically to the Congress: (1) specifying the number of Turkish armed forces on Cyprus; and (2) describing any U.S. defense articles on Cyprus.

Bill· SS. 582 (100th)open

Small Community Air Service Improvement Act of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1987

Small Community Air Service Improvement Act of 1987 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to enter into contracts with air carriers to assure that air service will be provided to certain small communities for which a determination of essential air transportation has been made under the Federal Aviation Act of 1958. Prescribes guidelines for such contracts. Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to repeal the requirement that the Civil Aeronautics Board establish, by rulemaking, objective criteria for designating eligible points for air transportation to small communities. Extends from ten years to 12 years the duration of the small community air service program. Declares that this Act ceases to be in effect ten years after the date of enactment.

Bill· SS. 604 (100th)open

Omnibus Taxpayers' Bill of Rights Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1987

Omnibus Taxpayers' Bill of Rights Act - Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to prepare a statement setting forth in nontechnical terms: (1) the rights and obligations of a taxpayer and of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) during a tax audit; (2) the procedures by which a taxpayer may appeal adverse decisions, prosecute refund claims, and file complaints; and (3) the procedures that the IRS may use in enforcing revenue laws. Directs the Secretary to transmit drafts of such statement to specified congressional committees and to distribute the final statement to all taxpayers with tax forms sent by the IRS. Amends the Inspector General Act of 1978 and other Federal law to establish within the Department of the Treasury an Office of Inspector General. Transfers to such Office the existing audit and investigation units of the Department. Prohibits the Inspector from reviewing: (1) monetary, fiscal, and tax policy; and (2) the exercise of legal judgment in the investigation and litigation of cases. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) withhold from the Inspector requested information that the Secretary determines will jeopardize the success of an ongoing investigation or litigation, confidential sources, or the national security; and (2) prohibit the Inspector from undertaking or continuing an audit or investigation under limited circumstances described in this Act. Requires the IRS, upon taxpayer request, to conduct any interview regarding a deficiency assessment at a reasonable time and place convenient to the taxpayer and to the IRS, and to permit the taxpayer, at his or her own expense, to record the interview. Authorizes the IRS interviewer to record such interview if the taxpayer has been given prior notice and is provided, upon request and payment of reproduction costs, with a transcript of the recording. Requires the interviewer to warn the taxpayer that: (1) he or she has a right to remain silent; (2) any statement the taxpayer makes may be used against him or her; and (3) he or she has the right to the presence of an attorney, certified public accountant, enrolled agent, or enrolled actuary. Permits a waiver of such rights if voluntarily and knowingly made. Amends Federal law to require the Comptroller General of the General Accounting Office to: (1) conduct audits of the IRS with respect to the efficiency, uniformity, and equity of the internal revenue laws (current law specifies no particular focus for such audits); and (2) conduct special audits or investigations of internal revenue law administration upon the request of any congressional committee or Member of Congress. Requires the Comptroller's annual report to the Congress to include specified findings concerning IRS management, efficiency, procedures, and structure. Divests of its finality a vote of the Joint Committee on Taxation to disapprove a Comptroller audit of the IRS. Designates such vote as a recommendation to disapprove an audit and makes such recommendation subject to congressional approval. Prohibits evaluations of IRS personnel based on revenue collected from taxpayers as a result of audits or investigations involving such personnel. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to prescribe criminal penalties for: (1) any investigation by an officer or employee of the United States in connection with Federal tax laws that inquires into the beliefs, associations, or activities of any individual or organization; or (2) the maintenance of any records containing information derived from such an investigation. Creates a civil cause of action in Federal court (regardless of the amount in controversy) for any taxpayer aggrieved by such prohibited investigation or recordkeeping. Authorizes both equitable remedies and awards of damages, including punitive damages, litigation costs, and reasonable attorney fees, in such cases. Extends from ten to 30 days the period between the required notice to a person who neglects or refuses to pay tax liability and a levy on such person's salary, wages, or other property. Specifies information that must be incorporated in such notice, including possible alternative actions and the appropriate appeals procedures. Adds to the circumstances triggering termination of such a levy: (1) an agreement between the taxpayer and the Secretary for payment of the liability; and (2) the Secretary's determination that the taxpayer's financial condition precludes enforceability of the liability. Revises the list of property exempt from levy to: (1) increase the exempt amount permitted for certain personal effects, the property of a business, and wages; (2) add an exemption for certain deposits in qualified institutions; and (3) provide an express exemption, except under limited circumstances specified in this Act, for the taxpayer's principal residence, a motor vehicle used by the taxpayer as the primary means of transportation to work, and any tangible personal property essential to the operation of the taxpayer's business in cases when a levy would prevent the taxpayer from carrying on such business. Prohibits a levy on any property when levy and sales expenses would exceed either the liability for which the levy is made or the fair market value of the levied property. Sets forth situations in which the Secretary must release a levy. Applies to jeopardy levies the administrative and judicial review procedures currently applicable to jeopardy assessments. Authorizes the Secretary, in certain cases, to enter into a binding agreement with a taxpayer under which such taxpayer may pay tax liability in installments. Requires the Secretary to offer in writing to enter such an agreement with any individual: (1) whose tax liability is $20,000 or less; and (2) who has not been delinquent in installment tax payments under similar agreements during a specified period. Permits the Secretary, after proper notice and a hearing, to modify or annul such an agreement upon the finding that the financial condition of the affected taxpayer has significantly changed. Requires the Secretary to abate in full any deficiency, including penalty or interest, completely attributable to erroneous advice in writing given to a taxpayer by an IRS officer or employee in response to such taxpayer's specific inquiry. Directs IRS officers and employees, when giving oral advice to a person, to inform such person that the contents of such communication are not binding on the IRS. Authorizes the IRS Ombudsman, upon application filed by a taxpayer, to issue a Taxpayer Assistance Order if, in the determination of the Ombudsman: (1) the taxpayer is suffering or is about to suffer from an unusual or irreparable loss as a result of the manner in which the internal revenue laws are being administered by the Secretary; and (2) the Secretary has failed to carry out any of his or her duties or has violated any provision of law. Allows the terms of a Taxpayer Assistance Order to require the Secretary to release property of the taxpayer levied upon or to cease or refrain from certain actions. Requires the Secretary to obey any Taxpayer Assistance Order issued by the Ombudsman. Allows an administrative appeal of tax liens. Revises the criteria according to which the Secretary determines a minimum sale price for property seized by levy and subject to a tax sale. Prohibits the Secretary from authorizing a class audit of taxpayers in a particular business or trade until each group member is given proper notice and the opportunity either to file an amended return or to challenge the Secretary's findings at a hearing. Places upon the IRS the burden of proof on all issues in all administrative and judicial proceedings between the IRS and a taxpayer. Applies the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act to all IRS rules and regulations prescribed by the Secretary.

Bill· SS. 592 (100th)referred

Medicare Catastrophic Illness Coverage Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1987

Medicare Catastrophic Illness Coverage Act - Amends part A (Hospital Insurance) of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to remove durational limitations on the coverage of inpatient hospital services. Provides coverage of post-hospital extended care services for up to 100 days each year. (Currently such services are provided for up to 100 days during a "spell of illness.") Requires a beneficiary to pay a deductible for each of the first two inpatient hospital admissions in a year. (Currently an inpatient hospital deductible is required for each "spell of illness".) Eliminates the coinsurance requirement for inpatient hospital services and outpatient hospital extended care services. Amends part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of the Medicare program to cover the amount by which a part B enrollee's out-of-pocket expenses exceed $2,000 in 1988, adjusting such ceiling thereafter to reflect changes in total Medicare per capita expenses. Excludes from the computation of a beneficiary's out-of-pocket expenses amounts above the full part B payment to physicians and others who do not accept assignment. Includes in the computation of the part B premium an amount equal to the Secretary of Health and Human Services' estimate of a part B enrollee's share of the benefits and administrative costs which result from this Act's catastrophic care coverage and beneficiary expense ceiling. Provides for the transfer to the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund of part B premium revenues which are attributable to the catastrophic care coverage this Act establishes under part A of the Medicare program.

Law· SJRESS.J.Res. 70 (100th)enacted

A joint resolution commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Marshall Plan.

United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1987

Acknowledges the magnanimity of the Marshall plan and the efforts of the Marshall Foundation in Lexington, Virginia, to continue the values for which George C. Marshall stood, and asks all Americans to rededicate themselves to the ideals which George C. Marshall represented. Welcomes the publication on June 5, 1987, of the fourth volume of the official biography of George C. Marshall. Designates the month of June 1987 as George C. Marshall Month.

Law· SS. 555 (100th)enacted

Indian Gaming Regulatory Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1987

Indian Gaming Regulatory Act - Establishes Federal standards for gaming activity on Indian lands. Establishes the National Indian Gaming Commission within the Department of the Interior. Requires at least two members of the Commission to be enrolled members of a federally recognized tribe. Excludes from the Commission individuals convicted of a felony or gaming offense or who have specified conflicts of interest. Authorizes the Chairman to: (1) issue orders of temporary closure of gaming activities; (2) levy and collect civil fines; (3) approve tribal ordinances regulating gaming; and (4) approve management contracts for gaming. Authorizes the Commission to monitor Indian gaming activities, inspect all premises where gaming occurs, and conduct background investigations. Requires the Commission to submit a report to the Congress every two years. Authorizes the Chairman to appoint a General Counsel to the Commission. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to exercise current supervision of Indian gaming until the Commission is organized and promulgates regulations. Leaves class I gaming (social games for prizes of minimal value and ceremonial games) within the exclusive jurisdiction of the Indian tribes. Continues tribal jurisdiction over class II gaming (bingo and lotto), but subject to this Act. Allows tribes to regulate class II gaming if: (1) the tribe is located in a State permitting it; and (2) the tribe's governing body adopts an ordinance approved by the Chairman. Requires a separate license for each place, facility, or location where class II gaming occurs. Requires the Chairman to approve any tribal ordinance on class II gaming if specified conditions, including the following, are met: (1) the tribe has the sole proprietary interest in and responsibility for the conduct of the gaming activity; (2) net revenues are used only for specified tribal, charitable, or local governmental purposes; and (3) the tribe will obtain annual outside independent audits. Specifies the conditions under which net revenues from any tribal gaming may be used to make per capita payments to tribal members. Allows tribal regulation of class II gaming activities not owned by Indians, providing tribal requirements are at least as restrictive as State laws governing similar gaming. Allows continued operation of individually owned class II gaming operations operating on September 1, 1986, if specified conditions are met. Prohibits class III gaming (all other forms of gaming not covered under class I or II, including horse racing, jai-alai, and casinos) on Indian lands, unless covered by an exemption. Allows class III gaming on Indian lands if it is legal in the State where located and the tribe asks the Secretary's consent for transfer of all civil and criminal jurisdiction, except taxing authority, to the State. Requires the Secretary to approve gaming jurisdictional transfer where the Commission certifies that specified conditions have been met. Requires the Chairman to approve ordinances within 90 days of submission. Provides that any ordinance not acted upon within 90 days will be deemed approved if it complies with Federal statutes on gaming. Authorizes tribes to make management contracts for class II gaming activity, provided the Chairman receives information concerning the background, past experience with gaming contracts, and financial statements for each person having a financial interest in or management responsibility for the contract. Requires the Chairman to determine, before approving any management contract, that it provides for: (1) adequate accounting procedures; (2) access to the daily operations of the gaming to tribal officials; (3) a minimum guaranteed payment to the tribe; (4) a ceiling for the repayment of development and construction costs; (5) a contract term not to exceed five years, and (6) grounds for terminating the contract. Prohibits the Chairman from approving a contract if: (1) any person having a financial interest in or management responsibility for the contract is a member of the tribe's governing body or has been convicted of any felony or gaming offense; (2) the management contractor has unduly influenced the tribal government or deliberately failed to comply with the terms of the contract; and (3) a trustee would not approve the contract. Requires the Chairman to review existing ordinances and management contracts authorizing class II gaming and to provide written notification of modifications needed to conform to Federal law. Authorizes the Chairman to levy fines of up to $25,000 for violations of gaming regulations. Authorizes the Chairman to temporarily close a game. Requires the Commission to establish a schedule of annual fees for Commission funding to be paid by each tribal gaming activity and to annually adopt the rate of assessment. Rebates surplus fees annually. Establishes a special fund in the Treasury for fee deposits. Authorizes appropriations. Excludes gaming from lands acquired by the Secretary for an Indian tribe after enactment of this Act unless: (1) such lands are within or contiguous to the boundaries of a reservation on the date of enactment; (2) the tribe has no reservation on the date of enactment; or (3) the Secretary determines a gaming establishment on newly acquired lands would be in the best interest of the tribe. Applies State laws pertaining to the licensing, regulations, or prohibition of gambling to Indian lands in the same manner as elsewhere in the State. Gives the United States exclusive jurisdiction over criminal prosecutions of violations of State gambling laws on Indian lands. Establishes penalties for theft from gaming establishments on Indian lands.

Bill· SS. 553 (100th)open

Veterans' Job Training Act Extension of 1987

United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1987

Veterans' Job Training Act Extension of 1987 - Amends the Veterans' Job Training Act to define "homeless individuals" for purposes of such Act. Makes such homeless individuals who are veterans of the Korean Conflict or the Vietnam era eligible for job training benefits under such Act. Extends through FY 1988 the authorization of appropriations under such Act. Extends the application deadline and the job training program commencement deadline under such Act.

Bill· SS. 541 (100th)open

A bill to amend title 39, United States Code, to extend to certain officers and employees of the United States Postal Service the same procedural and appeal rights with respect to certain adverse personnel actions as are afforded under title 5, United States Code, to Federal employees in the competitive services.

United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1987

Extends adverse action provisions of Federal law regarding Federal employees (concerning removal, suspension for more than 14 days, reduction in grade or pay, or furlough for 30 days or less) to Postal Service employees who: (1) are preference eligibles; (2) are supervisors or employees engaged in confidential personnel work; and (3) have completed one year of continuous service in the same or similar positions. Authorizes the Director of the Office of Personnel Management to obtain judicial review in the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit if: (1) the Director determines that the Board of Governors of the Postal Service erred in interpreting a civil service law, rule, or regulation affecting personnel management, and that the Board's decision will have a substantial impact on a civil service law, rule, regulation, or policy directive; or (2) the Postal Service makes such determination regarding postal personnel management.

Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 21 (100th)referred

A concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress in opposition to the proposal by the European Community for the establishment of a tax on vegetable and marine fats and oils and urging the President to take strong and immediate countermeasures should such a tax be implemented to the detriment of United States exports of oilseeds and products and inconsistently with the European Community's obligations under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.

United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1987

Expresses the sense of the Congress that the administration should: (1) oppose the establishment of a tax on vegetable and marine fats and oils in the European Community; (2) continue its efforts to ensure that such a tax is not established; and (3) notify the European Community that the United States will view establishment of such a tax as inconsistent with the European Community's obligations under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade and as an action that will result in the adoption of strong and immediate countermeasures.

Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 20 (100th)referred

A concurrent resolution to express the sense of Congress that funding for the vocational education program should not be eliminated.

United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1987

Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the Federal Government should maintain its role in vocational education through the continued provision of vocational education grants to the States; and (2) the proposal to eliminate Federal funding for vocational education should be rejected.

Bill· SS. 533 (100th)open

A bill to establish the Veterans' Administration as an executive department; to establish the National Commission on Executive Organization and Management, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1987

Establishes the Veterans Administration as an executive department redesignated as the Department of Veterans' Affairs. Makes technical and conforming changes, including the redesignation of the Administrator as the Secretary of Veterans' Affairs.

Bill· SS. 529 (100th)referred

A bill to amend the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to improve the President's ability to prevent importations that impair national security.

United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1987

Amends the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to grant the Secretary of Commerce (the Secretary) the responsibility for investigating, upon request, the effects of imports on national security. Requires the Secretary to report to the President on such investigation within six months of receiving the request that starts the investigation. Requires the Secretary to notify the Secretary of Defense concerning any such investigation. Requires the Secretary of Defense to conduct a separate defense needs assessment of the article affected by such imports. Requires the Secretary of Defense to report to the Secretary on such assessment within three months. Requires the Secretary's report to the President on such investigation to include a statement by the Secretary of Defense concurring or disagreeing with the Secretary's findings and explaining such concurrence or disagreement. Requires any portion of such report to be published if it is not: (1) classified as being clearly detrimental to the national security; and (2) proprietary information. Requires the President to: (1) decide whether or not to take action based on such report within 90 days of receiving it; and (2) explain the decision.