United States · United States Congress · 11 July 1996
Cattle Industry Improvement Act of 1996 - Amends the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 to advance the Fund for Rural America's initial funding date. (Sec. 3) Amends the Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921 to prohibit noncompetitive practices relating to the price or terms of sale of livestock or meat and meat by-products. (Sec. 4) Amends the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 to set forth domestic market reporting requirements for certain persons in the slaughter business. Defines "captive supply." (Sec. 5) Amends the Agricultural Trade Act of 1978 with regard to livestock and meat food products reporting requirements. (Sec. 6) Amends the Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921 to prohibit retaliation by packers against livestock producers. Provides damages for producers suffering such retaliation. (Sec. 7) Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish an interagency working group to review whether Federal lending practices are contributing to market concentration in the livestock and dairy sectors. (Sec. 8) Directs the President to prepare a consolidation plan for the U.S. food inspection system. (Sec. 9) Amends the Federal Meat Inspection Act to require a labeling system for U.S.-produced meat and meat food products. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 10) Directs the Secretary to collect and publicize information on bulk cheese spot transactions.
United States · United States Congress · 9 July 1996
Expresses the sense of the Senate with respect to cattle and beef trade issues of: (1) antitrust and international trade barriers; (2) collection and reporting functions; (3) self-regulation; and (4) emergency loan guarantee funding.
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1996
Truth in Employment Act of 1996 - Amends the National Labor Relations Act to provide that nothing in specified prohibitions against unfair labor practices shall be construed as requiring an employer to employ any person whose primary purpose is to represent a union in an organizational struggle.
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1996
Declares that the Congress should: (1) educate itself about the Internet and use the technology in personal, committee, and leadership offices; (2) work in a bipartisan and bicameral fashion to facilitate the growth and advancement of the Internet; (3) maximize the openness of and participation in government by the people via the Internet so that constituents can have more information from, and more access to, their elected representatives; (4) promote commerce and free flow of information on the Internet; (5) advance the United States' world leadership in the digital world by avoiding the passage of laws that stifle innovation and increase Internet regulation; and (6) work with the Internet community to receive its input on the issues affecting the Internet that come before the Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 1996
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Secretary of Agriculture should: (1) use the disaster reserve for livestock producers affected by natural disasters in 1996; and (2) provide voluntary conservation assistance to anyone who is permitted to hay or graze conservation reserve land on an emergency basis.
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 1996
Expresses the sense of the Senate that livestock producers who had qualified for 1995 emergency livestock feed assistance should be eligible for such assistance in 1996.
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 1996
Expresses the sense of the Senate that special consideration for disaster reserve assistance should be given to livestock producers who suffered losses in 1996 from natural disasters but did not qualify for emergency livestock feed assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 11 June 1996
Medicare Restoration Act of 1996 - Establishes the National Commission on Medicare Reform to: (1) review relevant analyses of the current, short-term, and long-term financial condition of the Medicare trust funds; (2) identify problems that threaten their solvency; (3) analyze potential solutions to such problems that will both assure Medicare's financial integrity and the provision of appropriate benefits under it; (4) make recommendations to restore the solvency of the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund and to provide for sustainable growth of the Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund; and (5) review and analyze such other matters as the Commission deems appropriate. Requires a report to the President and the Congress. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to provide funding for the Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 11 June 1996
Interstate Distribution of State-Inspected Meat Act of 1996 - Amends the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the Poultry Products Inspection Act to permit interstate distribution of State-inspected meat and poultry under specified circumstances.
United States · United States Congress · 10 June 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Juvenile Justice Reform Act of 1996 Title II: Federal Gang Violence Act of 1996 Title III: Federal Youth Violence Control Act of 1996 Title IV: Federal Youth Violence Prevention Act of 1996 Violent and Repeat Juvenile Offender Reform Act of 1996 - Title I: Juvenile Justice Reform Act of 1996 - Juvenile Justice Reform Act of 1996 - Revises Federal criminal code provisions to require that a juvenile age 13 or older who is alleged to have committed an act of juvenile delinquency which, if committed by an adult, would be a felony, be tried as an adult if: (1) the offense charged is a crime of violence or a specified drug offense; (2) the juvenile previously has been found guilty of three prior felonies committed on different occasions under Federal or State law, or other conditions apply; or (3) the appropriate U.S. Attorney finds a substantial Federal interest to warrant the exercise of Federal jurisdiction. Directs that offenses tried in U.S. district court under this Act be open to the public, with exceptions. Grants the U.S. Attorney, in making determinations concerning juvenile prosecution, complete access to prior Federal juvenile records. (Sec. 104) Lowers the minimum age at which a defendant may be sentenced to death from age 18 to 16. Adds aggravating factors for imposition of the death penalty. (Sec. 107) Subjects a juvenile tried as an adult to code provisions regarding detention, speedy trial, and restitution for adults. (Sec. 110) Authorizes: (1) the release of juvenile records to meet inquiries from an educational institution to ensure public safety and security; and (2) the Attorney General to seek injunctions to protect the safe public enjoyment of Federal lands. (Sec. 111) Repeals provisions regarding: (1) foregoing prosecution and surrendering minors to State authorities; and (2) the Advisory Corrections Council. (Sec. 112) Prohibits the exclusion of evidence in Federal court on the ground that: (1) the search or seizure violated the Fourth Amendment if carried out in circumstances justifying an objectively reasonable belief that it was in conformity with such amendment. (Sec. 113) Modifies the Federal: (1) criminal code to increase mandatory minimum sentences for using, carrying, or possessing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence or drug trafficking crime; and (2) judicial code to direct the United States Sentencing Commission (Commission) to provide for enhanced sentences for defendants guilty of committing an offense against a victim under age 10 or sexual assault involving a controlled substance. (Sec. 115) Makes an act of delinquency that would be a serious drug offense if committed by an adult a predicate offense under the Armed Career Criminal Act. (Sec. 118) Revises the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) to set mandatory minimum prison sentences for persons who use minors in drug trafficking activities or who sell drugs to minors. Repeals Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 (VCCLEA) provisions regarding increased penalties for drug-dealing in "drug-free" zones. Increases penalties under CSA regarding drug distribution in or near schools. Title II: Federal Gang Violence Act of 1996 - Federal Gang Violence Act of 1996 - Directs the Commission to amend the Federal sentencing guidelines: (1) so that, except regarding trafficking in cocaine base, if a defendant was a member of a criminal street gang at the time of the offense, the offense level is increased by six levels; and (2) to increase the base offense levels for traveling in interstate or foreign commerce and committing a violent crime in aid of a street gang or other racketeering enterprise and for recruiting a minor to participate in gang activity. (Sec. 203) Modifies Federal criminal code provisions regarding criminal street gangs to: (1) revise the definitions of "conviction" to include a finding that a person committed an act of juvenile delinquency involving a predicate gang crime and "criminal street gang" to cover a group whose members have engaged during the previous five-year period in a pattern of criminal activity; and (2) define "predicate gang crime" to encompass various offenses, including specified drug offenses and Federal or State felony offenses that by their nature involve a substantial risk of physical force against another. (Sec. 204) Revises the Travel Act to: (1) increase penalties for violations; and (2) increase the scope of unlawful activities under such Act. (Sec. 205) Prohibits and set penalties for soliciting or recruiting persons to participate in criminal gang activity. (Sec. 206) Makes: (1) offenses punishable by at least one year's imprisonment involving minors, and certain alien smuggling and firearms offenses, predicate offenses under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act; and (2) certain serious juvenile drug offenses predicate offenses under the Armed Career Criminal Act. (Sec. 207) Sets a mandatory minimum of three years imprisonment, a fine, or both for the transfer of a firearm to a minor. (Sec. 208) Increases penalties for transferring a handgun or handgun ammunition to a juvenile, with exceptions for juveniles under age 13, and makes such penalties applicable to juveniles. Increases from 30 to 70 days the time period during which an alleged delinquent in detention pending trial must be brought to trial. (Sec. 212) Authorizes appropriations to hire additional Assistant U.S. Attorneys to prosecute violent youth gangs. Title III: Federal Youth Violence Control Act of 1996 - Federal Youth Violence Control Act of 1996 - Revises the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 (JJDPA) to authorize the Administrator of the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention to make grants to eligible States and local governmental units to assist with projects for the development of more effective prosecutions, trials, graduated sanctions, and programs to improve the juvenile justice system. Directs the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) to: (1) provide training to representatives of public and private agencies and organizations with specific experience in the prevention, treatment, and control of juvenile delinquency; and (2) collect, prepare, and disseminate useful data regarding the prevention, treatment, and control of juvenile delinquency. (Sec. 203) Authorizes appropriations to carry out this title, subject to specified restrictions. Directs the Administrator to use 70 percent of sums available for grants for the strengthening of prosecution and punishment of youthful offenders, 15 percent for grants for prevention, treatment, and transitional services, ten percent for grants for research, and five percent for salaries and expenses of the BJA related to administrative expenses. Amends the JJDPA to: (1) reauthorize appropriations for runaway and homeless youth and missing children programs; and (2) repeal provisions regarding incentive grants for local delinquency prevention programs. (Sec. 303) Establishes within BJA the Office of Juvenile Accountability. Title IV: Federal Youth Violence Prevention Act of 1996 - Federal Youth Violence Prevention Act of 1996 - Establishes a program of grants to support communities that design strategic plans for youth development. (Sec. 405) Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) fund allocation; (2) application requirements; (3) fund distribution through a State office, including limits on the use of funds, eligibility, requests for proposals, grant renewal, the Federal share, and reporting and evaluation requirements; and (4) reallotment and reallocation of funds. Reserves funds for evaluation and research. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 411) Specifies that, of the amounts appropriated under this title, not more than 20 percent shall be used for prevention programs, with the remainder for: (1) the investigation, prosecution, or detention of juvenile offenders; and (2) the collection, distribution, and receipt of records of juvenile offenders that are equivalent to those kept for adult offenders, if specified conditions are met. Requires a State, to receive the full amount authorized, to establish authority to prosecute as adults: (1) as a matter of law, juveniles age 14 and older who commit murder or rape; and (2) as a matter of law or prosecutorial discretion, juveniles age 14 and older who commit armed robbery or aggravated assault, or who distribute controlled substances. (Sec. 413) Directs that a surcharge of 40 percent be added to the principal amount of each civil monetary penalty assessed by the United States, subject to specified limitations. (Sec. 414) Amends the VCCLEA to increase from 15 to 30 percent of the funds allocated in a fiscal year which each State shall reserve for counties and units of local government to construct, develop, expand, modify, or improve jails and other correctional facilities. (Sec. 415) Allows appropriations for activities authorized in this title to be made from the Violent Crime Reduction Trust Fund.
United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Recognition of the Millennium Society Title II: Commemorative Coins Title III: Commemorative Postage Stamps Millennium Society Act of 1996 - Title I: Recognition of the Millennium Society - Recognizes the Millennium Society (a nonprofit U.S. corporation chartered and organized under the laws of the State of Illinois on November 21, 1983) and any other organization that is organized and operated by the corporation exclusively for charitable and educational purposes. (Sec. 105) Sets forth the goals and purposes of the Society, which include: (1) establishing national goals for commemoration and celebration of the millennium in the United States and U.S. participation in such international events; (2) exercising exclusive jurisdiction over all matters pertaining to U.S. participation in commemorations or celebrations of the millennium; (3) coordinating activities and holding forums and symposiums to promote educational and cross-cultural exchange; and (4) establishing, endowing, and administering the Millennium Scholars Program. (Sec. 114) Grants the Society the sole and exclusive right to the use of specified symbols, emblems, trademarks, and names to carry out its functions. Authorizes the Society to allow contributors and suppliers of goods and services to use the Society's trade name, trademarks, symbols, insignia, emblems, seals, descriptive or designating marks, and slogans in advertising under specified conditions. Subjects to a civil action by the Society for the remedies provided in the Trademark Act of 1946 any person who, without the Society's consent, uses its trademark, symbol, insignia, emblem, seal, descriptive or designating mark, or slogan: (1) for the purposes of trade; (2) to induce the sale of any goods or services; (3) or to promote any theatrical exhibition, performance, or competition. Exempts persons who lawfully used such a symbol or slogan before the enactment of this Act. Allows the individuals to continue such lawful use for the same purpose and for the same goods or services. Title II: Commemorative Coins - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint five-dollar gold coins and one-dollar silver coins emblematic of the events of the second millennium and the advent of the third. (Sec. 204) Provides for the issuance of such coins beginning on July 1, 1999, and ending on January 1, 2001. (Sec. 207) Requires all surcharges received from coin sales to be promptly paid to the Society, under specified conditions, to be used only for the purpose of supporting the Millennium Scholars Program. Title III: Commemorative Postage Stamps - Urges the U.S. Postal Service to cooperate with the Secretary and the Society in the: (1) issuance of appropriate first day of issuance postage stamps commemorating the end of the second millennium and the advent of the third; and (2) production of a philatelic numismatic combination as a unique item to be made available to the public for such commemoration.
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 1996
Federal Trade Commission Reauthorization Act of 1996 - Amends the Federal Trade Commission Act to authorize appropriations for FY 1997 and 1998 for the Federal Trade Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Authorization of Appropriations Title II: Limitations and General Provisions Title III: Employment Reduction Assistance Title IV: Commercial Space Launch Act Amendments National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act, Fiscal Year 1997 - Title I: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes FY 1997 appropriations for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for: (1) human space flight; (2) science, aeronautics, and technology; (3) mission support; and (4) the Inspector General. Title II: Limitations and General Provisions - Limits funding for the Space Station. Allocates a specified amount for the experimental program to stimulate competitive research from amounts authorized for science, aeronautics, and technology. (Sec. 203) Directs the Administrator of NASA to initiate and operate a radar satellite program. Requires that all of the data processing functions be performed by the U.S. Geological Survey and the Alaska Synthetic Aperture Radar Facility. Provides for funding. (Sec. 204) Prohibits the Administrator from restructuring the Earth Observing System Data and Information System without first fulfilling certain reporting requirements. (Sec. 205) Directs the Administrator to conduct studies of the Upper Missouri River Basin hydrology to develop applications for Mission to Planet Earth data. Provides for funding. (Sec. 206) Direct the Administrator to make acquisitions of space-based and airborne Earth remote sensing data. Provides for funding. (Sec. 207) Directs the Administrator to conduct a study of privatization of the Shuttle. (Sec. 208) Directs the Administrator, to consider the use of existing military installation facilities or any other federally owned facilities when the Administrator considers the purchase, lease, or expansion of a facility to meet the requirements of NASA. (Sec. 209) Authorizes the Administrator to use funds appropriated for purposes other than those appropriated for the construction of facilities, research and program management, and for the Inspector General for the construction of new facilities and additions to, repair of, or modification of existing facilities at any location in support of the purposes for which such funds are appropriated. (Sec. 210) Authorizes the Administrator, if new developments in the national program of aeronautical and space activities have occurred, such developments require additional funds, and other conditions are met, to reprogram amounts authorized for construction of facilities pursuant to this Act or previous NASA authorization Acts. (Sec. 213) Requires that of the funds appropriated for Mission Support, not more than $35,000 may be used for scientific consultations or extraordinary expenses. (Sec. 214) Amends the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 to eliminate the presidential report to the Congress. Authorizes the Administrator to delay for up to five years the public disclosure of certain commercially valuable information developed in the course of NASA activities. (Sec. 215) States that the Congress finds it is appropriate for specified contractor costs under a cooperative agreement to be allowed as independent research and development costs for Federal procurement purposes. Directs the Administration to seek a revision of the Federal Acquisition Regulations to reflect such finding. Title III: Employment Reduction Assistance - National Aeronautics and Space Administration Federal Employment Reduction Assistance Act of 1996 - Directs the Administrator to establish a program under which separation pay may be offered to encourage eligible employees to separate from service voluntarily, whether by retirement or resignation. (Sec. 304) Provides that a voluntary separation incentive payment be paid in a lump sum after the employee's separation and shall not exceed $25,000. (Sec. 305) Prescribes that an individual who has received a voluntary separation incentive payment and accepts any subsequent employment with the Government within five years after the date of separation shall be required to repay, prior to the first day of employment, the entire amount of the incentive payment to the agency that paid the incentive payment to NASA. Provides for waiver of repayment if the individual involved possesses unique abilities and is the only qualified applicant for the position. (Sec. 306) Makes an employee who has received an incentive payment ineligible to receive an annuity for reasons of disability, unless the incentive payment is repaid. (Sec. 307) Requires that NASA make a contribution to the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund in an amount equal to 15 percent of the final basic pay of each agency employee to whom a voluntary separation incentive has been paid. (Sec. 308) Mandates a reduction of total full time equivalent employment of NASA by one for each employee receiving a voluntary separation incentive payment. Requires that the President take appropriate action to ensure that functions involving more than ten full-time equivalent employees are not converted to contracts, except in cases in which a cost comparison demonstrates that such contracts would be to the advantage of the Government. Provides that the preceding two clauses may be waived upon a determination by the President that there exists a state of war or other national or extraordinary emergency. (Sec. 309) Mandates certain reports. Makes technical amendments to the Federal Workforce Restructuring Act of 1994. Title IV: Commercial Space Launch Act Amendments - Amends Federal law with regard to commercial space activities to include in-space transportation and reentry vehicles and activities within the scope of such provisions. (Sec. 418) Directs the Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations regarding insurance, licensing, and indemnification. (Sec.419) Prohibits obtrusive space advertising (as defined by this Act). Requests the President to enter into negotiations with foreign launching nations to prohibit such advertising.
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1996
National Transportation Safety Board Amendments of 1996 - Amends Federal transportation law to prohibit the National Transportation Safety Board and any agency receiving information from it from disclosing: (1) records or information relating to its participation in foreign aircraft accident investigations, except in certain circumstances; or (2) voluntarily provided safety-related information unrelated to the exercise of the Board's accident or incident investigation authority, if disclosure would inhibit the voluntary provision of that type of information. Declares that nothing in this Act shall restrict the Board from referring to foreign accident investigation information when making safety recommendations. Authorizes the Board to conduct training of its employees in subjects necessary for proper performance of accident investigation. Authorizes appropriations to the Board through FY 1999.
United States · United States Congress · 4 June 1996
Amends the National School Lunch Act to require schools or service institutions participating in the school lunch program, the school breakfast program, or the child care food program to buy U.S beef.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1996
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to convey to Wyoming specified property in Crook County for purposes of: (1) fish and wildlife management or education; or (2) maintaining and using the historical interests and significance of facilities on the property consistent with Federal and State law. Requires the State to provide access to the property for institutions of higher education at a level of compensation as mutually agreed.
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1996
Amends the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to impose duties upon certain fireworks. Increases the column one duty rate regarding specified other types of fireworks.
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 1996
Packers and Stockyards Improvement Act of 1996 - Amends the Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921 to provide that a livestock dealer or market agency shall hold the proceeds of a cash sale in trust for the seller until the seller receives full payment. Exempts certain small dealers or market agencies from such provision. States that: (1) a dishonored payment instrument shall not constitute a sale (with resultant loss of trust benefit); (2) third-party purchaser rights shall not be affected by such livestock dealer trust; and (3) jurisdiction for related civil matters shall be in U.S. district courts. Revises certain business recordkeeping requirements, including elimination of fine and imprisonment provisions. Includes formula-priced cattle in the definition of captive supply for data collection purposes.
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 1996
Amends the Agricultural Market Transition Act to make assistance available under the noninsured crop assistance program for native pasture for livestock.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1996
Temporary Emergency Livestock Feed Assistance Act of 1996 - Amends the Agricultural Market Transition Act to provide temporary assistance for certain livestock producers. Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to obligate specified funds for 1996 livestock feed emergencies. Requires a report on the use of certain commodity reserves for livestock assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1996
United States Tourism Organization Act - Establishes: (1) the National Tourism Board to develop a national travel and tourism strategy for increasing U.S. tourism; and (2) the United States Tourism Organization as a non-Federal nonprofit organization to implement the national travel and tourism strategy developed by the Board. Requires the Secretary of State to cooperate with the Organization and place a high priority on implementing its recommendations. Amends the Export Enhancement Act of 1988 to require the Federal trade promotion plan of the Trade Promotion Coordinating Committee (TPCC) to reflect Board recommendations. Makes the Chairman of the Organization a member of the TPCC. Terminates the Organization and the Board if a plan for the long-term financing of the Organization has not been implemented two years after its incorporation.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1996
Defense of Marriage Act - Amends the Federal judicial code to provide that no State, territory, or possession of the United States or Indian tribe shall be required to give effect to any marriage between persons of the same sex under the laws of any other such jurisdiction or to any right or claim arising from such relationship. Establishes a Federal definition of: (1) "marriage" as only a legal union between one man and one woman as husband and wife; and (2) "spouse" as only a person of the opposite sex who is a husband or wife.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1996
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to reduce by 4.3 cents per gallon the tax on gasoline, diesel and aviation fuel, fuel used by commercial waterway transportation vessels, special motor fuels, and methanol or ethanol fuels. Makes the reduction effective from seven days after enactment of this Act until January 1, 1997. Provides for the treatment of floor stocks. Expresses the sense of the Congress that consumers immediately receive the benefits. Requires the Comptroller General to study and report to specified congressional committees on whether there has been a passthrough to consumers. Amends the Department of Energy Organization Act to authorize appropriations to carry out the Act. Requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to complete actions necessary to permit the competitive bidding of licenses for the use of described frequency bands. Prohibits the FCC from treating enactment of this Act as an expression of the intent of the Congress regarding the award of initial licenses of construction permits for Advanced Television Services.
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1996
Promotion of Commerce On-Line in the Digital Era (Pro-CODE) Act of 1996 - Prohibits the Secretary of Commerce (acting through the National Institute of Standards and Technology or otherwise) from promulgating or enforcing regulations, or otherwise adopting standards or carrying out policies: (1) that result in encryption standards intended for use by businesses or entities other than Federal computer systems; or (2) in a manner inconsistent with this Act, or that have the effect of imposing Government-designed encryption standards on the private sector by restricting the export of computer hardware and computer software with encryption capabilities. (Sec. 5) Prohibits the Federal and State governments from: (1) restricting or regulating the interstate sale by any person of any product with encryption capabilities; or (2) requiring, as a condition of such a sale, that a decryption key be given to any other person (including a Federal agency or a private entity certified or approved by the Federal or a State government). Grants the Secretary exclusive authority to control exports of all computer hardware, software, and technology with encryption capabilities, except that which is specifically designed or modified for military use, including command, control, and intelligence applications. Prohibits requiring any validated license (with limited exceptions) for the export or reexport of any: (1) computer software, including that with encryption capabilities, that is generally available, as is, and designed for installation by the purchaser, or that is in the public domain (including on the Internet) or publicly available because it is generally accessible to the public in any form; or (2) computing device or computer hardware solely because it incorporates or employs in any form such computer software (including that with encryption capabilities). Directs the Secretary to authorize the export or reexport of computer software with encryption capabilities under a general license for nonmilitary end-uses in any country to which exports of software or hardware of similar capability are permitted for use by financial institutions not controlled in fact by U.S. persons, unless there is substantial evidence that such software and hardware will be diverted to a military end-use or an end-use supporting international terrorism, modified for military or terrorist end-use, or reexported without requisite Federal authorization. Declares that nothing in this Act may be construed to affect any law in effect before this Act's enactment designed to prevent the distribution of descramblers and any other equipment for illegal interceptions of cable and satellite television signals.
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 1996
Amends the Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921 to provide that a livestock dealer or market agency shall hold the proceeds of a cash sale in trust for the seller until the seller receives full payment. Exempts certain small dealers or market agencies from such provision. States that: (1) a dishonored payment instrument shall not constitute a sale (with resultant loss of trust benefit); (2) third-party purchaser rights shall not be affected by such livestock dealer trust; and (3) jurisdiction for related civil matters shall be in U.S. district courts.
United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1996
Provides for observation of a moment of silence at 9:02 a.m. central daylight time on April 19, 1996, in remembrance of the victims of the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Commends the people of Oklahoma and the aid provided by rescuers, Federal agencies, countless volunteers, and Federal employees. Reaffirms trust in our system of justice to ensure that the perpetrators are convicted and punished.
United States · United States Congress · 16 April 1996
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to treat the acquisition by a first-time farmer of land or personal property from a related person as not being an acquisition from a related person. Modifies the definition of "substantial farmland."
United States · United States Congress · 15 April 1996
Pays tribute to the remarkable life and career of Ronald H. Brown (the late Secretary of Commerce) and to the contributions of all those who perished in the airplane accident on April 3, 1996, while in service to their country on a mission to Bosnia. Extends condolences to the victims' families.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1996
Authorizes each State that issues licenses to commercial motor vehicle operators to waive any requirement to obtain such a license for operators of custom harvesting farm machinery or employees of farm-related service industries (or both) that would otherwise apply.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1996
Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the situation in Kosova must be resolved before the outer wall of sanctions against Serbia is lifted and Serbia is able to return to the international community; and (2) the human rights of the people of Kosova must be restored to levels guaranteed by international law. Calls for: (1) the United States to support the legitimate claims of the Kosovan people to determine their political future; (2) the return of international observers to Kosova as soon as possible; (3) the elected Government of Kosova to be permitted to meet and exercise its legitimate mandate as elected representatives of the Kosovan people; and (4) the reinstatement of all individuals whose employment was terminated on the basis of their ethnicity. Declares that the Kosovan education system should be reopened to all residents of Kosova regardless of ethnicity and the majority ethnic Albanian population should be allowed to educate its youth in its native tongue. Commends progress toward the establishment of a United States Information Agency cultural center in Prishtina, Kosova. Urges the Secretary of State to redouble efforts to open the center as soon as possible. Calls for the President to appoint a special envoy to aid in negotiating a resolution to the crisis in Kosova.
United States · United States Congress · 27 March 1996
Amends the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 to provide that a forest management activity (timber sale or grazing) and land use plan under such Act or a land or resource management plan under the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act of 1974 shall be subject to initial judicial review only in the U.S. district court for the district in which the affected land is located.
United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1996
Repeals provisions of the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 that grant congressional consent to the Northeast Interstate Dairy Compact entered into among the States of Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts, subject to specified conditions, including conditions under which Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia may join the Compact.
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1996
Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to read as if certain exceptions to its nuclear non-proliferation provisions made by the Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 1996 (Public Law 104-107), which permit the transfer of certain military equipment or technology to Pakistan, had not been made.
United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1996
Amends the National School Lunch Act to permit schools to use any reasonable approach to meet certain dietary guidelines under the school lunch and breakfast programs. Prohibits schools from being required to use or conduct nutrient analysis.
United States · United States Congress · 7 March 1996
Ward Valley Land Transfer Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to convey to the California Department of Health Services specified lands in San Bernardino County, California, known as the Ward Valley Site, upon the tendering to: (1) the Secretary of the Treasury of $500,100 on behalf of California; and (2) the Chairman of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission of a written commitment by California to carry out environmental monitoring and protection measures, based on recommendations of the National Academy of Sciences, subject to Federal oversight by the Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1996
Deplores the missile tests that the People's Republic of China (PRC) will conduct from March 8 through 15, 1996, as a threat to the peace, security, and stability of Taiwan and as not being in the spirit of the three U.S.-China Joint Communiques. Calls for the Government of the PRC to cease its bellicose actions directed at Taiwan and enter into meaningful dialogue with the Government of Taiwan at the highest levels with an eye toward decreasing tensions and resolving the issue of the future of Taiwan. Urges the President to consult with the Congress on an appropriate U.S. response to the tests and to reexamine the nature and quantity of defense articles and services that may be necessary to enable Taiwan to maintain a sufficient self-defense capability in light of the heightened threat.
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1996
Encrypted Communications Privacy Act of 1996 - Allows any person within any State, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and any U.S. territory or possession and any U.S. person in a foreign country to use any encryption, regardless of encryption algorithm selected, key length chosen, or implementation technique or medium used, with exceptions. Specifies that nothing in this Act shall be construed to: (1) require the use of any form of encryption; or (2) limit or affect the ability of any person to use encryption without a key escrow function or of any person who chooses to use encryption with a key escrow function not to use a key holder. Amends the Federal criminal code to subject to criminal penalties and civil liability any key holder who, without authorization, releases a decryption key or provides decryption assistance. Makes it a complete defense against any such civil or criminal action that the defendant acted in good faith reliance upon a court warrant or order, grand jury or trial subpoena, or statutory authorization. Directs the Attorney General and other specified officials to report to the Administrative Office of the United States Courts on the number of orders and extensions served on key holders to obtain access to decryption keys or decryption assistance. Sets penalties for willfully endeavoring by means of encryption to obstruct, impede, or prevent the communication of information in furtherance of a felony to an investigative or law enforcement officer. Allows any person within any State to sell in interstate commerce any encryption. Grants the Secretary of Commerce exclusive authority to control exports of all computer hardware, software, and technology for information security (including encryption), except computer hardware, software, and technology specifically designed or modified for military use. Prohibits requiring any validated license (with limited exceptions) for the export or reexport of any: (1) software, including software with encryption capabilities, that is generally available as is, that is designed for installation by the purchaser, or that is in the public domain or publicly available because it is generally accessible to the public in any form; or (2) computing device solely because it incorporates or employs in any form software (including software with encryption capabilities) exempted from any such requirement for a validated license. Directs the Secretary to authorize the export or reexport of: (1) software with encryption capabilities for nonmilitary end-uses in any country to which exports of software of similar capability are permitted for use by financial institutions not controlled in fact by U.S. persons, unless there is substantial evidence that such software will be diverted to a military end-use or an end-use supporting international terrorism, modified for military or terrorist end-use, or reexported without requisite U.S. authorization; and (2) computer hardware with encryption capabilities if the Secretary determines that a product offering comparable security is commercially available from a foreign supplier without effective restrictions outside the United States. Declares that nothing in this Act: (1) constitutes authority for the conduct of intelligence activity; and (2) shall affect specified conduct by Federal officers or employees related to communications security and communications by or among foreign powers or agents.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: General Provisions Title II: Assistance for Education of All Children with Disabilities Title III: Systems Change Title IV: Research and Personnel Preparation Title V: Technical Assistance, Support, and Dissemination of Information Title VI: Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1996 - Revises the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and extends its authorization of appropriations through FY 2002. Title I: General Provisions - Revises IDEA to declare that the right to equal educational opportunities for all children with disabilities is guaranteed by the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment to the Constitution. (Sec. 103) Allows the Office of Special Education Programs to accept voluntary and uncompensated services. (Sec. 104) Revises requirements for: (1) prescribing regulations; (2) eligibility for financial assistance; and (3) discretionary grant programs. Requires the Secretary of Education to develop and implement a comprehensive plan for activities under titles IV and V of this Act. Provides for specified enhanced services to children with disabilities. Lists entities eligible for awards. Authorizes the Secretary to limit, without rulemaking, competitions to projects that give priority to one or more targeted areas, if each project addresses the needs of children with disabilities and their families. Provides for application management, including a peer review process. Authorizes the Secretary to use certain funds for: (1) payments to nonfederal entities for administrative support; (2) Federal employees to monitor projects; and (3) evaluation of program activities carried out under these programs. (Sec. 107) Repeals IDEA provisions for: (1) acquisition of equipment and construction of necessary facilities; and (2) grants for the removal of architectural barriers. Title II: Assistance for Education of All Children with Disabilities - Revises entitlements and allocations for assistance for education of all children with disabilities. (Sec. 201) Authorizes States to determine whether to make subgrants smaller than a specified minimum amount to some local education agencies (LEAs). (Sec. 202) Revises and consolidates State eligibility and planning provisions. Provides that, if a child with a disability qualifies for special education, that child does not have to be classified by a specific impairment or condition. Requires the State educational agency (SEA) to: (1) examine data to determine if significant racial disproportionality is occurring in the identification or placement of children under IDEA; and (2) review and revise policies accordingly. Provides that, if a hearing officer agrees with the parents' unilateral placement of a child with a disability in a private school, the LEA may be required to reimburse the parents. Requires a non-educational agency, if it is responsible for services necessary to ensure a free appropriate public education for children with disabilities, to pay for or provide such services directly or by contract or other arrangements. Requires States to: (1) ensure that interagency agreements or other mechanisms are in effect between educational agencies and non-educational agencies for defining respective financial responsibilities, resolving interagency disputes, and interagency coordination; and (2) establish a mechanism by which LEAs may seek reimbursement from agencies for the costs of providing related services. Revises requirements for a comprehensive system of personnel development. Allows LEAs to use appropriately trained and supervised paraprofessionals. Requires States to: (1) establish performance goals and indicators for children with disabilities; (2) ensure that these children participate in general State and district-wide assessments, with appropriate accommodations, where necessary; and (3) develop guidelines for participation in alternative assessments for those children who cannot participate in such general State and district-wide assessments. Consolidates funding and public participation requirements. Revises requirements for State advisory panels and their duties. Repeals requirements for three-year State plans. (Sec. 203) Revises LEA and SEA eligibility and maintenance of effort requirements, with specified exceptions. Allows specified activities, regardless of certain excess cost and noncommingling of funds requirements, including: (1) incidental benefits to non-disabled students; (2) simultaneous services on a space-available basis to non-IDEA-eligible children with disabilities protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); (3) a coordinated services system that links education, health, and social welfare services, systems, and entities to improve educational and transitional results for all children and their families; and (4) a school-based improvement plan. Revises requirements for LEA involvement with a State's Comprehensive System of Personnel Development. (Sec. 204) Revises and consolidates specified requirements for State and local administration of evaluations, reevaluations, individualized education programs (IEPs), and educational placements. Revises IEP content to: (1) focus on measurable annual objectives; and (2) emphasize ensuring that each child, as appropriate, has the opportunity to progress in the general curriculum, and to participate with nondisabled children in various environments. Requires consideration of transition services needs: (1) for all students with disabilities beginning at age 14 (or younger, under specified circumstances); (2) under the applicable components of the IEP; and (3) in light of the student's participation in the general curriculum. Provides for transfer of rights at the age of majority. (Sec. 205) Repeals certain IDEA provisions relating to Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) State agencies. (Sec. 206) Revises procedural safeguards, including provisions for written notices to parents. Requires States to make mediation available to parents of children with disabilities in disputes with LEAs on any matter regarding the identification, evaluation, or educational placement of a child or the provision of free appropriate public education. Permits the transfer of parental rights to a student with disabilities upon reaching the age of majority under State law. Requires the State to have procedures for appointing the parent or another person to represent the student's interests if, under State law, such a student is determined not to have the ability to provide informed consent. (Sec. 207) Revises requirements for: (1) withholding of payments to non-compliant States and judicial review of such determinations; (2) rulemaking on compliance and eligibility; (3) evaluation and program information; (4) preschool grants; and (5) payments. (Sec. 209) Requires the Secretary to: (1) conduct studies and evaluations to assess the effectiveness of efforts to provide free appropriate public education and early intervention services, including assessing the placement of children with disabilities by disability category; and (2) conduct a longitudinal study that measure the educational and transitional services provided to and results achieved by children with disabilities under IDEA. Title III: Systems Change - Establishes a program to promote systems change to improve educational and transitional services and results for children with disabilities. Authorizes competitive grants to SEAs, in partnership with LEAs and other interested individuals, agencies, and organizations, to improve such services and results on a system-wide basis. Allows grant recipients to collaborate in systems change activities with those in other States, through joint arrangements with institutions of higher education and sharing of staff and consultants. Requires coordination with this program of activities under titles IV and V. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 302) Extends authorities and authorizations of appropriations relating to centers and services to meet special needs of individuals with disabilities, including regional centers for the deaf. Title IV: Research and Personnel Preparation - Establishes a new program (in part by consolidating certain current activities) for improving early intervention, educational, and transitional services and results for children with disabilities through coordinated research and personnel preparation. (Consolidates current part D personnel preparation provisions and current part E research provisions.) (Sec. 401) Authorizes research and innovation grants and contracts for: (1) new knowledge production in learning styles, instructional approaches, behavior management, assessment tools, assistive technology, program accountability and personnel preparation models; (2) integration of research and practice, through demonstration and dissemination of successful practice; and (3) improvement in the use of professional knowledge by teachers, parents, and others in their classrooms and other learning settings. Authorizes personnel preparation grants and contracts in the areas of: (1) high incidence disabilities, such as learning disabilities, mental retardation, and behavior disordered groups; (2) leadership preparation; (3) low-incidence disabilities, such as sensory impairment, multiple disabilities, and severe disabling conditions; and (4) projects of national significance. (Sec. 402) Makes conforming amendments to the Higher Education Act of 1965, Goals 2000: Educate America Act, and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. (Sec. 403) Extends the authorization of appropriations for training personnel for the education of individuals with disabilities. Title V: Technical Assistance, Support, and Dissemination of Information - Establishes a new program (in part by consolidating certain current activities) for improving early intervention, educational, and transitional services and results for children with disabilities through coordinated technical assistance, support, and dissemination of information. (Sec. 501) Authorizes grants and contracts for: (1) parent training and information centers and community programs; (2) coordinated technical assistance, support, and dissemination; and (3) technology and media activities. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 502) Makes conforming amendments to IDEA and the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act. (Sec. 503) Extends various authorities and authorizations of appropriations. Title VI: Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities - Revises the program for infants and toddlers with disabilities, with respect to: (1) encouraging States to expand opportunities for infants and toddlers with disabilities who are at risk of having substantial developmental delays if early intervention services are not provided; (2) continuing eligibility; (3) statewide system requirements; (4) the individualized family service plan; (5) allocation and use of funds; (6) procedural safeguards; (7) State Interagency Coordinating Council duties; and (8) Federal Interagency Coordinating Council (FICC) membership and duties. (Sec. 615) Directs the FICC to convene a panel of experts to develop recommendations for a model definition of developmental delay. Allows the use of funds for referring at risk infants and toddlers, in those States not currently serving them, to other IDEA services. Permits planning for transition to preschool services to begin up to six months before the child's third birthday, if parents and agencies agree. (Sec. 616) Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1996
Constitutional Amendment - Requires a two-thirds vote of each House of the Congress in order to pass any bill levying a new tax or increasing the rate or base of any tax. Allows the Congress to waive that requirement during war or certain military conflict. Requires all votes under this amendment to be by yeas and nays and the names of persons voting for and against to be entered in the Journal of each House.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1996
Urges the Government of Iran to extend to the Baha'i community the rights guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the international covenants on human rights. Calls upon the President to continue to: (1) assert the U.S. Government's concern regarding Iran's violations of the rights of its citizens, including members of the Baha'i community, along with expressions of concern regarding the Iranian Government's support for international terrorism and its efforts to acquire weapons of mass destruction; (2) emphasize that the United States regards the human rights practices of the Iranian Government, particularly its treatment of the Baha'i community and other religious minorities, as a significant factor in the development of U.S.-Iranian relations; (3) urge the Iranian Government to emancipate the Baha'i community by granting those rights guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the international covenants on human rights; and (4) encourage other governments to continue to appeal to the Government of Iran, and to cooperate with other governments and international organizations, in efforts to protect the religious rights of the Baha'is and other minorities in Iran.
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1996
Agricultural Market Transition Act of 1996 - Subtitle A: Agricultural Market Transition Program - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) to enter into production flexibility contracts through crop year 2002 with eligible agricultural operators and owners with respect to conservation, wetlands, and planting flexibility requirements. Requires contracts to be entered into by April 15, 1996, with certain exceptions for conservation reserve lands. Defines eligible "owners and operators" and "farmland." Sets forth: (1) contract payment amounts for each of FY 1996 through 2002 and allocation amounts for wheat, corn, grain sorghum, barley, oats, upland cotton, and rice; and (2) annual payment rate factors. Permits any commodity or crop to be planted on contract acreage with special provisions and limitations for fruit and vegetables, haying and grazing, alfalfa, and legumes. (Sec. 14) Directs the Secretary to make nonrecourse marketing assistance loans for crop years 1996 through 2002 to producers of wheat, feed grains (corn, grain sorghum, barley, and oats), upland and extra long staple cotton, and oilseeds (sunflower, canola, rapeseed, safflower, mustard, flaxseed, and other oilseeds). Sets forth commodity loan rate, term, and repayment provisions. Directs the Secretary to make loan deficiency payments to producers (of other than extra long staple cotton) who forego obtaining such nonrecourse loans in an amount equal to the difference between a commodity's loan rate and repayment level. Establishes special marketing loan provisions for upland cotton, including: (1) cotton user marketing certificates; (2) a special import quota; and (3) a limited global import quota for upland cotton. (Sec. 15) Establishes fiscal year payment limitations for individuals of: (1) $40,000 for flexibility contracts; and (2) $75,000 for marketing loan and loan deficiency payments. (Sec. 16) Directs the Secretary to: (1) make nonrecourse loans available to quota peanut producers at $610 per ton and to additional peanut producers at appropriate rates; (2) make related warehouse storage loans available; (3) provide for marketing area pools for quota and additional peanuts, with separate pools for New Mexico-produced Valencia peanuts; (4) require that all domestic and export peanuts comply with specified quality standards; and (5) provide for a nonrefundable marketing assessment. Provides that: (1) net gains from each marketing pool shall be distributed only to pool producers; and (2) losses in quota pools shall be covered using a specified order of priority. Prohibits the Secretary from making quota peanut loans if producers have disapproved poundage quotas. Amends the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 with regard to the peanut program to: (1) extend peanut quota provisions through crop year 2002; (2) eliminate the minimum national poundage quota; (3) eliminate seed peanuts from the national poundage quota determination; (4) create a temporary quota allocation for seed peanuts; (5) eliminate the Texas increased quota allocation; and (5) authorize transfers of additional peanuts to the quota pool where natural disasters prevented quota poundage harvesting and marketing. (Sec. 17) Directs the Secretary to make recourse loans available to processors of domestically grown sugarcane and sugar beets at 18 cents per pound and 22.9 cents per pound, respectively. Sets loan terms at the earlier of nine months or the end of the fiscal year, with supplemental loans available for loans made in the last three months of a fiscal year. Authorizes the Secretary to provide nonrecourse loans when the imported tariff rate quota for sugar imports exceeds 1.5 million short tons raw value. Sets forth first processor sugarcane and sugar beet marketing assessment rates for FY 1996 through 2003, which shall be collected monthly and remitted to the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC). Sets forth enforcement and reporting provisions. Amends the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 to repeal marketing allotment provisions. Makes this section applicable to the 1996 through 2002 crops of sugarcane and sugar beets. (Sec. 18) Directs the Secretary to carry out the provisions of this subtitle through the CCC. (Sec. 19) Repeals the Agricultural Act of 1949, with specified sections transferred to the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938. (Eliminates permanent price support authority.) Makes conforming amendments to the Agricultural Act of 1938. Subtitle B: Conservation - Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to provide mandatory FY 1996 through 2002 funding through the CCC for the conservation reserve and wetlands programs, and the livestock environmental assistance program. Establishes the livestock environmental assistance program to provide FY 1996 through 2002 technical assistance and cost-sharing and incentive payments to livestock producers who enter into land management and structural contracts to protect water, soil, and related resources from livestock-related degradation. (Makes waste management facility construction ineligible for cost-sharing payments.) Replaces wetlands reserve program permanent easement authority with 15-year easement authority. Limits conservation reserve program total acreage enrollment to 36.4 million acres. Authorizes producers to terminate program participation. Prohibits new acreage enrollment in 1997. Subtitle C: Agricultural Promotion and Export Programs - Amends the Agricultural Trade Act of 1978 to: (1) authorize specified FY 1996 through 2002 appropriations for the market promotion program; and (2) authorize specified FY 1996 through 2002 funding from the CCC for the export enhancement program. Subtitle D: Miscellaneous - Amends the Federal Crop Insurance Act to authorize the Secretary, in consultation with insurance providers, to offer catastrophic risk protection in a State (or portion of a State) through local Department of Agriculture offices if the Secretary determines insufficient coverage is otherwise available. Provides for the transfer of current policies to private insurers. States that beginning with the spring-planted 1996 crop catastrophic coverage shall not be required for agricultural program benefits if the producer signs a written emergency crop loss assistance waiver. Extends crop insurance provisions to seed crops. (Sec. 52) Amends the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 to authorize the Secretary to collect fees to cover the costs of providing import quarantine and inspection services. Establishes in the Treasury the Agricultural Quarantine Inspection User Fee Account. (Sec. 53) Increases the CCC interest rate applicable to agricultural commodity loans by 100 basis points.
![Official portrait of Sen. Pressler, Larry [R-SD]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/p000513_200.jpg)