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United States · Official source
2,390 records where Sen. Santorum, Rick [R-PA] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years
United States · United States Congress · 7 October 1994
Amends Federal monetary law to revise the guidelines for the closing of appropriation accounts available for indefinite periods.
United States · United States Congress · 29 September 1994
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Eliminating Excessive and Redundant Appeals Title II: Reform of Exclusionary Rule Title III: Prisons Title IV: Enhanced Gun Penalties Title V: Death Penalty Title VI: Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act Title VII: Conditions of Confinement Victims' Rights Act of 1994 - Title I: Eliminating Excessive and Redundant Appeals - Amends the Federal judicial code to establish a one-year statute of limitations for habeas corpus actions brought by State prisoners. Vests authority to issue certificates for probable cause for appeal of habeas corpus orders exclusively in the courts of appeals. Permits denial on the merits of habeas corpus writs notwithstanding the failure to exhaust State remedies. Establishes a two-year statute of limitations for Federal prisoners filing for collateral relief. (Sec. 106) Sets forth special habeas corpus procedures for cases brought by prisoners in State custody who are subject to a capital sentence, provided that: (1) a State establishes by rule of its court of last resort or by statute a mechanism for the appointment, compensation, and payment of reasonable litigation expenses of competent counsel in State post-conviction proceedings brought by indigent prisoners whose capital convictions and sentences have been upheld on direct appeal to such court or have otherwise become final; and (2) such rule or statute provides standards of competency for the appointment of counsel. Provides for a mandatory stay of execution during the post-conviction review initiated pursuant to this title. Details conditions which will cause such stay to expire. Prohibits a Federal court from entering a stay of execution or granting relief in a capital case unless specified conditions are met. Sets forth time limits for determining petitions. Authorizes the State or Government to enforce such time limits by applying to the court of appeals or the Supreme Court for a writ of mandamus. Title II: Reform of Exclusionary Rule - Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit the exclusion of evidence obtained as a result of a search or seizure on the grounds that the search or seizure was in violation of the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution if the search or seizure was carried out in circumstances justifying an objectively reasonable belief that it was in conformity with such amendment. Makes the fact that evidence was obtained pursuant to and within the scope of a warrant prima facie evidence of the existence of such circumstances. Prohibits the exclusion of evidence on the ground that it was obtained in violation of a statute, administrative rule or regulation, or rule of procedure unless expressly authorized by statute or rule prescribed by the Supreme Court pursuant to statutory authority. Title III: Prisons - Requires the Attorney General to implement and enforce regulations which: (1) mandate prison work for all able-bodied inmates in Federal penal and correctional institutions; and (2) prohibit the Government provision in inmates' cells of television, radio, telephone, stereo, or similar amenities. (Sec. 302) Directs the Bureau of Prisons to take care that: (1) prisoners under its jurisdiction do not engage in any activities designed to increase both their physical strength and their fighting ability; and (2) all equipment designed for this purpose be removed from Federal correctional facilities. Title IV: Enhanced Gun Penalties - Enhances penalties for persons convicted of using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to the commission of a felony. Title V: Death Penalty - Amends the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 to revise procedures involving jury findings in capital cases. Directs the jury or, if there is no jury, the court to: (1) consider whether aggravating factors outweigh any mitigating factors; (2) recommend a sentence of death if it unanimously finds at least one aggravating factor and no mitigating factor or if it finds one or more aggravating factors which outweigh any mitigating factors; and (3) not recommend such sentence in any other case. Requires the jury to be instructed that: (1) it must avoid any influence of sympathy, sentiment, passion, prejudice, or other arbitrary factors in its decision and should make such a recommendation as the information warrants; and (2) its recommendation concerning a sentence of death is to be based on the aggravating and mitigating factors found, but that the final decision concerning the balance of aggravating and mitigating factors is a matter for the jury's judgment. Title VI: Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act - Amends the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act to prohibit any civil action for deprivation of rights from being brought by an adult convicted of a crime confined in any correctional facility until available plain, speedy, and effective administrative remedies are exhausted. Specifies that such exhaustion of administrative remedies may not be required unless the Attorney General has certified or the court has determined that such remedies are in substantial compliance with specified minimum acceptable standards (as under current law) or are otherwise fair and effective. (Sec. 602) Requires the court to dismiss any such action if satisfied that the action fails to state a claim upon which relief can be granted or is frivolous or malicious. (Sec. 603) Repeals a provision requiring that the minimum standards provide for an advisory role for employees and inmates in the formulation, implementation, and operation of the system. (Sec. 604) Requires the Attorney General to develop a procedure for the prompt review and certification of systems for the resolution of grievances of adults confined in any correctional or pretrial detention facility if such systems are in substantial compliance with the minimum standards (current law) or are otherwise fair and effective. Authorizes the Attorney General to suspend or withdraw certification at any time he has reasonable cause to believe that such procedure is no longer in substantial compliance or is no longer fair and effective. (Sec. 605) Amends the Federal judicial code to authorize the court to request an attorney to represent a person financially unable to employ counsel (current law) at any time. Requires (current law authorizes) the court to dismiss the case if the allegation of poverty is untrue, or if satisfied that the action is frivolous or malicious. Requires: (1) a prisoner in a correctional institution who files an affidavit of indigency to include a statement of all assets such prisoner possesses; and (2) the court to make inquiry of the institution for information relating to the extent of the prisoner's assets and to require full or partial payment of filing fees according to the prisoner's ability to pay. Title VII: Conditions of Confinement - Amends the Federal judicial code to deny the district court in any action challenging the constitutionality of conditions of confinement in any correctional institution housing persons accused or convicted of a crime or juveniles adjudicated delinquent, jurisdiction to issue or enforce any order that: (1) imposes a ceiling on the population of any institution or requires any adjustment of the release dates of inmates; or (2) prohibits the use of tents or prefabricated structures for housing inmates.
United States · United States Congress · 29 September 1994
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Elementary and Secondary Education Program Authorized Title II: Amendments to Other Educational Programs Elementary and Secondary Education Amendments of 1994 - Title I: Elementary and Secondary Education Program Authorized - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to extend the period of authorization of payments to State educational agencies for grants entitlements for basic programs operated by local educational agencies under title I chapter 1 provisions for financial assistance to meet special educational needs of disadvantaged children. Extends the authorization of appropriations for the following ESEA programs: (1) participation of children enrolled in private schools in chapter 1 programs; (2) Even Start programs; (3) secondary school programs for basic skills improvement and dropout prevention and reentry; (4) funds for the implementation of school improvement programs; (5) certain Federal evaluation, coordination and technical assistance, and research activities; (6) rural educational opportunities; (7) studies; (8) Federal, State, and local partnership for educational improvement (as well as extending the duration of such payments); (9) Eisenhower mathematics and science education State grants, national programs, and regional mathematics and science education consortia; (10) foreign language assistance; (11) magnet schools assistance; (12) women's educational equity; (13) Ellender fellowship program; (14) immigrant education; (15) general assistance to the Virgin Islands and territorial training assistance; (16) programs under the Secretary's Fund for Innovation in Education (including instruction on the history and principles of democracy in the United States); (17) the Ready-to-Learn program of educational television and instructional video programming for preschool and elementary school children and their parents; (18) assistance to address school dropout problems; (19) assistance to provide basic skills improvement; and (20) bilingual education programs (including State data collection and dissemination). Title II: Amendments to Other Educational Programs - Extends the authorization of appropriations for the following educational programs: (1) adult education for the homeless and education for homeless children and youth under the Stewart B. McKinney Act; (2) Follow Through programs under the Follow Through Act; (3) impact aid programs under specified Federal laws; (4) Indian education programs involving financial assistance to local educational agencies, improvement of educational programs involving financial assistance to local educational agencies, improvement of educational opportunities, special educational training for teachers, fellowships for Indian students, gifted and talented education, adult education, and program administration, under the Indian Education Act of 1988; (5) refugee and immigrant education under the Refugee Education Assistance Act of 1980; (6) Native Hawaiian education programs involving model curriculum implementation, family-based education centers, higher education, gifted and talented education, and special education, under specified Federal law; (7) partnerships in education for mathematics, science, and engineering under the Education for Economic Security Act; (8) the National Center for Education Statistics under the General Education Provisions Act; (9) programs under the Fund for the Improvement of Schools and Teaching Act; and (10) the National Writing Project under the Education Council Act of 1991.
United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1994
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that all U.S. armed forces should be withdrawn from Haiti not later than December 31, 1994.
United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1994
Amends the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 to extend from three years to five years the period during which Medicare select policies may be issued.
United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1994
Designates November 1, 1994, as National Family Literacy Day.
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1994
Amends Federal civil service retirement provisions to remove specified provisions regarding creditable service for Members of Congress. Provides for the deduction and withholding of seven (currently, eight) percent of the basic pay of a Member of Congress, thus making such deduction and withholding equivalent to that of a Federal employee. Removes provisions regarding eligibility for annuities for Members of Congress and makes annuity eligibility requirements for Federal employees applicable to Members. Repeals provisions regarding: (1) deferred retirement with respect to Members; and (2) the computation of annuities for congressional employees and Members. Prohibits such annuities from exceeding 80 percent of the average pay of an employee or Member (thus, making the computation of a Member's annuity conform to that of a Federal employee). Removes provisions regarding survivor annuities, annuities and pay on reemployment, and immediate retirement with respect to Members. Makes the computation of a basic annuity, deductions from pay, and Government contributions for Members conform to requirements for Federal employees. Applies this Act to congressional employees as well.
United States · United States Congress · 13 September 1994
Amends the Public Safety and Recreational Firearms Use Protection Act to remove from the definition of a "semiautomatic assault weapon" the manufacture, transfer, or possession of which, with exceptions, is prohibited: (1) certain semiautomatic rifles and pistols that have an ability to accept a detachable magazine; and (2) certain semiautomatic shotguns.
United States · United States Congress · 21 August 1994
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Grants for Correctional Facilities Title II: State and Local Law Enforcement Grants Title III: Protection Against Sexually Violent Predators Title IV: Eliminating Excessive and Redundant Appeals Title V: Reform of 'Exclusionary Rule' Title VI: Truth-In-Sentencing Title VII: Prison Work Required; Luxuries Abolished Title VIII: Improving Border Controls Title IX: Enhanced Gun Penalties Title X: Violent Crime Reduction Trust Fund Title XI: Mandatory Life Imprisonment for Persons Convicted of Certain Felonies Back-To-Basics Crime Control Act of 1994 - Title I: Grants for Correctional Facilities - Directs the Attorney General to make grants to States to construct, expand, and improve prisons and jails. Authorizes specified sums to each State without conditions imposed by the Federal Government, except requirements to comply with this title and to use such funds exclusively for the construction of prisons and jails. Authorizes appropriations. Sets forth formulas for the distribution of funds in FY 1995 and in FY 1996 through 1999 based on violent crimes reported by the States to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). (Sec. 102) Specifies that 25 percent of total funds appropriated under this title shall be allocated to each eligible State according to a formula which takes into account the percentage change in the time to be served by persons convicted of violent crimes. Directs that States which have achieved a truth in sentencing standard of violent criminals serving 85 percent of prison time assessed receive the incentive funds, subject to specified requirements. Title II: State and Local Law Enforcement Grants - Requires the Attorney General to make grants to States to increase the number of law enforcement officers in service. Authorizes specified funds, without conditions imposed by the Federal Government (except that the funds be used exclusively to increase the number of law enforcement officers in service). Requires States to allocate 80 percent of their grants to local government for use by local law enforcement, as nearly as possible in proportion to the populations served by such local law enforcement agencies (LEAs). Title III: Protection Against Sexually Violent Predators - Directs the Attorney General to: (1) establish guidelines for State programs to require a sexually violent predator to register a current address with a designated State LEA upon being released from prison or being placed on parole or supervised release; and (2) approve each State program that complies with the guidelines. Makes States that do not implement and maintain such programs ineligible to receive ten percent of the funds that would otherwise be allocated to the State in drug control and system improvement grants under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968. Requires: (1) the determination that a person is, or is no longer, a sexually violent predator to be made by the sentencing court after receiving a report by a board of experts on sexual offenses; and (2) each State to establish a board composed of experts in the field of the behavior and treatment of sexual offenders. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) notification regarding the duty of an offender to register and to provide any new address to a designated State LEA and of a State prison official to obtain specified information; (2) the transfer of information to the State LEA and to the FBI; (3) quarterly verification of the released offender's address; (4) penalties for failing to register and keep the registration current; (5) termination of the obligation to register; (6) community notification concerning a predator required to register; and (7) immunity for good faith conduct by LEAs, their employees, and State officials. Title IV: Eliminating Excessive and Redundant Appeals - Amends the Federal judicial code to establish a one-year statute of limitations for habeas corpus actions brought by State prisoners. Vests authority to issue certificates for probable cause for appeal of habeas corpus orders exclusively in the courts of appeals. Permits denial on the merits of habeas corpus writs notwithstanding the failure to exhaust State remedies. Establishes a two-year statute of limitations for Federal prisoners filing for collateral relief. (Sec. 406) Sets forth special habeas corpus procedures in capital cases brought by prisoners in State custody who are subject to a capital sentence. Makes such procedures contingent upon: (1) a State establishing by rule of its court of last resort or by statute a mechanism for the appointment, compensation, and payment of reasonable litigation expenses of competent counsel in State post convictions and sentences have been upheld on direct appeal to such court or have otherwise become final; and (2) such rule or statute providing standards of competency for the appointment of counsel. Provides for a mandatory stay of execution during the post-conviction review initiated pursuant to this title. Details conditions which will cause such stay to expire. Prohibits a Federal court from entering a stay of execution or granting relief in a capital case unless specified conditions are met. Sets forth lime limits for determining petitions. Authorizes the State or Government to enforce such time limits by applying to the court of appeals or the Supreme Court for a writ of mandamus. Title V: Reform of 'Exclusionary Rule' - Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit the exclusion of evidence obtained as a result of a search or seizure, in a proceeding in a court of the United States, on the grounds that the search or seizure was in violation of the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution if it was carried out in circumstances justifying an objectively reasonable belief that it was in conformity with such amendment. Makes the fact that evidence was obtained pursuant to and within the scope of a warrant prima facie evidence of the existence of such circumstances. Prohibits the exclusion of evidence, in a proceeding in a U.S. court, on the ground that it was obtained in violation of a statute, administrative rule or regulation, or rule of procedure unless exclusion is expressly authorized by statute or by a rule prescribed by the Supreme Court pursuant to statutory authority. Title VI: Truth in Sentencing - Amends the Federal criminal code to permit the Bureau of Prisons to add, in its discretion, additional time to a prisoner's sentence of up to 15 percent of the prisoner's term for unsatisfactory behavior. Prohibits a sentence from being reduced for satisfactory behavior to a term less than the original sentence nominally imposed. Title VII: Prison Work Required; Luxuries Abolished - Directs the Attorney General to implement and enforce regulations which: (1) mandate prison work for all able-bodied inmates in Federal penal and correctional institutions; and (2) prohibit the Government provision in inmates' cells of television, radio, telephone, stereo, or similar amenities. (Sec. 702) Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to prohibit awards of Pell grants to prisoners in Federal or State penal institutions. Title VIII: Improving Border Controls - Authorizes appropriations. Authorizes and directs the Attorney General to use such funds to permit the commander of the Border Patrol to increase by at least 6,000 the number of border patrol agent positions above the number of such positions as July 1, 1994. (Sec. 802) Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide for expedited deportation and exclusion of criminal aliens. Prohibits reentry of an alien into the United States during the minimum period of confinement to which the alien was sentenced. Authorizes the Attorney General to prescribe special regulations for the registration and fingerprinting of aliens on criminal probation or parole. Expands the definitions of "aggravated felony." (Sec. 805) Sets forth deportation procedures for certain criminal aliens who are not permanent residents. Grants a U.S. district court jurisdiction to enter a judicial order of deportation at the time of sentencing against an alien whose criminal conviction causes such alien to be deportable under provisions relating to conviction of an aggravated felony if requested prior to sentencing by the U.S. Attorney. (Sec. 807) Restricts defenses to deportation for certain criminal aliens. Enhances penalties for failing to depart or reentering after a final order of deportation. (Sec. 810) Authorizes appropriations for a criminal alien information system. Title IX: Enhanced Gun Penalties - Amends the Federal criminal code to enhance penalties imposed upon persons convicted of using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to the commission of a felony. (Sec. 902) Sets a mandatory minimum sentence for unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, fugitive from justice, addict or unlawful user of a controlled substance, or transferor or receiver of a stolen firearm. (Sec. 903) Increases the general penalty for violation of Federal firearms laws. Title X: Violent Crime Reduction Trust Fund - Establishes a Violent Crime Reduction Trust Fund as a separate account in the Treasury into which shall be transferred savings realized from implementation of provisions of the Federal Workforce Restructuring Act of 1994. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) transfers into, and appropriations from, the Fund; (2) annual reporting requirements on the status of the Fund; and (3) allocation of sums in the Fund. Extends authorizations of appropriations for fiscal years for which the full amount authorized is not appropriated. Title XI: Mandatory Life Imprisonment for Persons Convicted of Certain Felonies - Amends the Federal criminal code to provide for mandatory life imprisonment for persons convicted in Federal court of a serious violent felony if: (1) the person has been convicted (and the conviction has become final) on separate prior occasions in a Federal or State court of two or more serious violent felonies, or one or more serious violent felonies and one or more serious drug offenses; and (2) each serious violent felony or serious drug offense used as a basis for sentencing under this title, other than the first, was committed after the defendant's conviction of the preceding serious violent felony or serious drug offense. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) persons subject to the criminal jurisdiction of an Indian tribal government; and (2) resentencing upon the overturning of a prior conviction. (Sec. 1102) Prohibits the court from reducing the sentence of a defendant unless specified conditions are met, including that defendant is at least age 70, has served at least 30 years in prison for the offense or offenses for which the defendant is currently imprisoned, and a determination has been made by the Director of the Bureau of Prisons that the defendant is not a danger to the safety of any other person or the community.
United States · United States Congress · 8 August 1994
Taxpayer's Right to Know Resolution - Amends rule XV of the Rules of the House of Representatives to make it out of order in the House or in the Committee of the Whole to pass or adopt except by a rollcall vote, a quorum being present, and the yeas and nays being considered as ordered any bill, joint resolution, or conference report: (1) making or continuing an appropriation; (2) increasing the statutory limit on the public debt; (3) amending the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 or the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 or changing the congressional budget process; (4) providing revenue; (5) establishing, extending, or raising any user fee; or (6) authorizing the enactment of new budget authority. Makes it out of order in any committee to report such legislation except by a rollcall vote, approved by a majority of the members voting, a quorum being present.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1994
Spent Nuclear Fuel Disposal Assurance Act - Amends the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 to declare that the obligation of the Secretary of Energy to accept high-level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel as of January 31, 1998, is absolute and is not dependent upon either commencement of repository operations or a monitored retrievable storage facility. Prohibits such obligation from being voided or delayed for any reason. Repeals: (1) the prohibition against selection of a monitored retrievable storage site until the Secretary has submitted recommendations for a spent nuclear fuel repository site; and (2) the licensing conditions for a monitored retrievable storage facility.
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1994
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that: (1) a more proportionate share of funds appropriated for homeless programs should be appropriated to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for homeless veterans programs; and (2) funds appropriated for any fiscal year for homeless programs should be administered by all agencies in a proportional manner to aid homeless veterans.
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 1994
Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit the exclusion of evidence in a proceeding in a U.S. court on the ground that the search and seizure was in violation of the Fourth Amendment if carried out in circumstances justifying an objectively reasonable belief that it was in conformity with such amendment. Specifies that the fact that evidence was obtained pursuant to and within the scope of a warrant constitutes prima facie evidence of the existence of such circumstances. Prohibits the exclusion of evidence in such a proceeding on the ground that it was obtained in violation of a statute, administrative rule or regulation, or rule of procedure unless exclusion is expressly authorized by statute or rule prescribed by the Supreme Court pursuant to statutory authority.
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1994
Amends the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act to revise the definition of "pattern of racketeering activity" to require a profit-seeking purpose.
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 1994
Expresses the sense of the Congress that neither the President nor any other entity in the executive branch should attempt to impose a racially based quota system to challenge death penalties.
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1994
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the United States should not undertake any military action against Haiti unless the President first certifies to the Congress that there exists a clear and present danger to the citizens of the United States and that U.S. interests require such action.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1994
Amends title XIX (Medicaid), part A (Aid to Families with Dependent Children) (AFDC) of title IV, and title XVI (Supplemental Security Income for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled) (SSI) of the Social Security Act (SSA), as well as the Food Stamp Act of 1977 and the United States Housing Act of 1937 to eliminate specified benefits with respect to fugitive felons and probation and parole violators. Provides for exchange of information concerning such individuals with Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies. Amends the same SSA titles and Acts to require the appropriate agencies to furnish the Immigration and Naturalization Service with the names and addresses of, and other identifying information on, any individual known to be an illegal alien. Amends AFDC provisions to require termination of benefits for dependent children absent from the home for specified periods of time, with allowance for good cause exceptions.
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1994
Declares that the human rights and emigration provisions of the Trade Act of 1974 shall apply to Cambodia for purposes of determining its eligibility to receive nondiscriminatory treatment (most-favored-nation) status.
United States · United States Congress · 16 June 1994
Amends the Clean Air Act to authorize a State in which all or part of a Severe ozone nonattainment area is located to submit a plan revision requiring employers in such area to implement programs to reduce work-related vehicle trips and miles by employees. (Current law requires such States to submit such revision within two years of the enactment of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990). Authorizes such revision to require employers in such areas to increase average passenger occupancy per vehicle in commuting trips between home and workplace during peak travel periods. (Current law requires specified increases in average passenger occupancy.) Authorizes (currently, requires) the revision to require employers subject to a vehicle occupancy requirement to submit a compliance plan.
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1994
Authorizes extension of nondiscriminatory treatment (most-favored-nation treatment) to the products of Cambodia.
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1994
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that for purposes of issuing final guidelines under title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 relating to unlawful harassment in employment, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission should exclude harassment based on religion.
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 1994
Juvenile Criminal Act of 1994 - Amends the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 to include among the Act's: (1) findings that emphasis should be placed on identifying hardcore youths who should be transferred from the juvenile justice system to the adult criminal justice system; and (2) purposes to assist State and local governments in improving the identification of hardcore juvenile offenders and the removal of such offenders from the juvenile justice system. Requires State plans under the Act to provide: (1) specified funding for the establishment and maintenance of an effective system that requires the prosecution of at least those juveniles who are 14 years of age and older as adults, rather than in juvenile proceedings, for listed offenses (murder or attempted murder; robbery, battery, or rape while armed with a firearm; any other crime the State deems appropriate; and the fourth or subsequent occasion on which such juveniles engage in an activity for which adults could be imprisoned for a term exceeding one year) unless, on a case-by-case basis, the transfer of such juveniles for disposition in the juvenile justice system is determined under State law to be in the interest of justice; and (2) that the State ensure that whenever a juvenile is adjudicated in a juvenile proceeding to have engaged in such offenses that a record be kept relating to that adjudication, the juvenile be fingerprinted and photographed (with such fingerprints and photograph sent to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)), and the court in which the adjudication takes place transmit to the FBI information concerning the adjudication and disposition. Provides for a reduction of sums allotted to a State for a fiscal year by 16 2/3 percent for each of specified paragraphs of the Act with respect to which noncompliance occurs. (Current law provides for a reduction by 25 percent and doesn't include the requirements added by this Act in determining noncompliance.)
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 1994
Instructs the House Committees on Agriculture; Banking, Finance and Urban Affairs; Government Operations; the Judiciary; and Small Business to commence hearings on issues within their jurisdiction relating to Madison Guaranty Savings and Loan Association, Whitewater Development Corporation, Capital Management Services Inc., Ray E. Friedman and Company, Lasater and Company, and such appropriate related issues by August 15, 1994, and to submit written findings concerning such matter to the House by the sine die adjournment of the Congress. Directs the respective committees to work to accommodate the work of Special Counsel Robert B. Fiske, Jr., and to not grant immunity, under specified provisions of the Federal criminal code, over the objection of the Special Counsel to any witness called to testify at these hearings. Instructs the Speaker and the majority and minority leaders to meet to determine the appropriate timetable, procedures, and other relevant issues relating to congressional oversight.
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1994
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Restrictions for Aliens Title II: Restrictions for Drug Addicts and Alcoholics Title III: Benefits for Children Title IV: Fraud Title I: Restrictions For Aliens - Amends title XVI (Supplemental Security Income) (SSI) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to make certain aliens ineligible for SSI benefits. Amends SSA title IV part A (Aid to Families with Dependent Children) (AFDC) to require State AFDC plans to require the State agency to provide the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) with identifying information on any unlawful alien with any children who are U.S. citizens. Title II: Restrictions for Drug Addicts and Alcoholics - Amends SSA title XVI, among other things, to: (1) suspend SSI benefits for certain recipients who test positive for illegal drugs or alcohol until such time that the recipient tests negative; and (2) make various specified representative payee changes, including requiring SSI disability payments based on substance abuse to be paid through representative payees. Title III: Benefits for Children - Amends SSA title XVI to: (1) replace the current cash benefit with a medical voucher for children below 18 to use for items associated with treating child blindness or disability the costs of which are not covered under SSA title XIX (Medicaid); and (2) require disability reviews for SSI recipients upon reaching 18. Title IV: Fraud - Amends SSA title XVI to add additional requirements for: (1) foreign language translation under provisions for filing of applications and furnishing of information; (2) preventing fraud in the SSI program, for example, by establishing civil monetary penalties and assessments, and by making SSI fraud a felony; and (3) developing profiles of cases involving a high probability of fraud. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to request INS and the Centers for Disease Control to provide any relevant medical information for determining alien eligibility for SSI. Directs the Secretary to report annually to appropriate congressional committees on reviews of SSI cases.
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1994
Restricted Explosives Control Act of 1994 - Prohibits the distribution or receipt of restricted explosives without a Federal permit. Defines "restricted explosives" to mean high explosives, blasting agents, detonators, and more than 50 pounds of black powder. Requires applications for such permits to include the applicant's photograph and fingerprints, which shall be taken and transmitted to the Secretary of the Treasury by the chief law enforcement officer of the applicant's place of residence.
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1994
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Establishment of the Social Security Administration as an Independent Agency Title II: Miscellaneous Improvements to the Old-Age Survivors, and Disability Insurance Program Social Security Administrative Reform Act of 1994 - Title I: Establishment of the Social Security Administration as an Independent Agency - Amends title VII (Administration) of the Social Security Act (SSA) to establish as an independent executive agency the Social Security Administration, governed by a Social Security Board, to administer the Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance (OASDI) program and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program under SSA titles II and XVI. (Sec. 102) Establishes in the Administration an Office of the Beneficiary Ombudsman. (Sec. 104) Transfers to the Board all functions carried out by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) pertaining to such programs. (Sec. 107) Requires the Board to report to the Congress within 120 days after the beginning of each regular session of its administration under SSA. Requires the Secretary to study and make recommendations on the most effective methods of providing economic security and on the administrative policy for SSA programs administered by the Secretary. Title II: Improvements (sic) to the Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Program - Amends SSA titles II and XVI with respect to the payment of disability benefits to substance abusers. (Sec. 202) Amends SSA titles II and related provisions of Federal law with respect to: (1) OASDI trust fund administration, including the creation of a Continuing Disability Review Account in the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund; (2) telephone access to local Social Security Administration offices; (3) OASDI coverage of State election personnel, police officers, and fire fighters; (4) use of social security numbers for jury selection and in administration of Federal workers' compensation laws; (5) totalization benefits, military reservists, and application of windfall elimination and Government pension offset provisions; (6) facility-of-payment provisions; (7) maximum family benefits in guarantee cases; (8) annual earnings filing; (9) disability insurance program demonstration project authority; (10) cross-matching of social security number information and employer ID number information maintained by the Department of Agriculture; (11) retirement eligibility for Federal employees transferred to International Organizations; (12) treatment of certain visas; and (13) rounding when calculating OASDI contribution and benefit base and earnings test exempt amounts. (Sec. 208) Provides a limited exemption from certain self-employment tax liability for individuals performing religious services in Canada. (Sec. 213) Amends SSA title XI with regard to: (1) disclosure of mortality information for research purposes; (2) misuse of HHS and Treasury symbols, emblems, or names in reference to social security programs and agencies, and associated penalties; and (3) penalties for unauthorized disclosure of social security information. (Sec. 219) Amends the Railroad Retirement Solvency Act of 1983 concerning certain transfers to the Railroad Retirement Account. (Sec. 223) Directs the Secretary to appoint a Commission on the Evaluation of Disability in Children to study and report to the Congress on SSI's definition of "disability" and how it applies with respect to children.
United States · United States Congress · 14 April 1994
NATO Expansion Act of 1994 - Expresses the sense of the Congress with respect to NATO membership of Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia. Authorizes the President to establish a program to assist the transition to full NATO membership for Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and other European countries emerging from communist domination designated pursuant to this Act. Permits the President to provide specified security assistance to such countries, including excess defense articles, economic support fund assistance, international military education and training, and foreign military financing. Authorizes the President to provide additional assistance from the Nonproliferation and Disarmament Fund and Countries in Transition accounts. Permits the President to designate other European countries emerging from communist domination to receive assistance under this Act if he reports to the appropriate congressional committees that such countries: (1) have made significant progress toward establishing democratic institutions, free market economies, civilian control of their armed forces, and the rule of law; and (2) are likely to be in a position to further the principles of the North Atlantic Treaty and to contribute to the security of the North Atlantic area. Authorizes the President to confer, pursuant to agreement with any country eligible to participate in the Partnership for Peace, rights with respect to the military and related civilian personnel and activities of that country in the United States comparable to those conferred by that country with respect to the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1994
Requires the establishment of a budget reserve account for the funding for natural disasters and national security emergencies. Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to include such funding in the budget process. Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to repeal provisions relating to emergency appropriations. Requires annual reports to the Congress on expenditures from such account.
United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1994
Interstate Municipal Solid Waste Control Act - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to authorize State Governors to limit the quantity of out-of-State municipal solid waste (MSW) received for disposal at landfills or incinerators to an annual quantity equal to that received during 1990, 1991, or 1992, whichever is less. Limits the quantity of out-of-State MSW received to an annual quantity no greater than 30 percent of all MSW received in 1990, 1991, or 1992, whichever is less, if, during such year, the landfill or incinerator received documented shipments of more than 50,000 tons of out-of-State MSW representing more than 30 percent of all MSW received during the calendar year concerned. Provides for further limits in 1995 through 1997. Authorizes State Governors to prohibit the disposal of out-of-State MSW in: (1) new landfills or incinerators; or (2) landfills or incinerators that do not meet certain requirements of Federal and State laws. Permits State Governors to treat any out-of-State industrial solid waste as out-of-State MSW if it is disposed of at a landfill or incinerator that receives MSW. Authorizes counties to exercise the same authorities with respect to out-of-State MSW as State Governors, except that the 30 percent limitation described in this Act shall be 20 percent. Prohibits discrimination against shipments of out-of-State solid waste on the basis of State of origin. Authorizes a State Governor to limit or prohibit the exportation outside the State of MSW generated in the State, except for materials that have been separated from MSW for recycling. Exempts from the requirements of this Act: (1) material that has been separated or diverted from MSW and has been transported into the State for purposes of recycling and any material returned from a dispenser or distributor to the manufacturer for credit, evaluation, or reuse (this section does not apply to material disposed of in a landfill or incinerator); (2) solid waste generated by an industrial facility and transported for purposes of treatment, storage, or disposal to a facility owned or operated by the waste generator; and (3) solid waste generated incident to the provision of air transportation.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1994
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Definitions Title II: Compliance and Increased Participation Title III: Ratings and Incentives for Community Floodplain Management Programs Title IV: Mitigation of Flood and Erosion Risks Title V: Task Force, Advisory Council, and Studies Title VI: Miscellaneous Provisions National Flood Insurance Program Improvement Act of 1994 - Title I: Definitions - Defines specified terms under the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 and the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968. Title II: Compliance and Increased Participation - Amends the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 to expand flood insurance purchase requirements for borrowers securing loans through the Federal National Mortgage Association, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, and Federal agency mortgage lenders. Requires residential real estate lenders to establish flood insurance premium escrow accounts. Requires Federal lenders and regulated lending institutions (banks, savings and loans, credit unions) and loan servicers to notify borrowers of special flood hazards and of the need to purchase and maintain flood insurance. Requires such entities, after 60 days' notice, to purchase such insurance on behalf of the borrower and charge the borrower for premium costs. Provides for review of special hazards determinations by the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Requires the Director to develop a standard flood hazard determination form for use in connection with loans for residential properties located in an area of special flood hazards and in which flood insurance is available. Amends the Federal Deposit Insurance Act and the Federal Credit Union Act to require regulated lending institutions to conduct examinations and report to the Congress with respect to compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program. Provides penalties for lenders who fail to require flood insurance, maintain escrow accounts, or provide appropriate borrower notification with respect to the need for flood insurance. Amends the Federal Financial Institutions Examinations Council Act of 1978 to direct the Financial Examinations Council to coordinate with Federal entities for lending regulation to develop uniform lender standards. Title III: Ratings and Incentives for Community Floodplain Management Programs - Amends the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 to provide for a community rating system and premium rate incentives for community floodplain management. Requires the FEMA Director to carry out a community erosion hazard management program which provides incentives for reduction of erosion damage and promotes the reduction of Federal flood insurance losses related to erosion hazards. Provides program funding. Title IV: Mitigation of Flood and Erosion Risks - Amends the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 to require the FEMA Director to coordinate all flood and erosion mitigation activities under the Federal Insurance Administrator. Provides funding for such activities. Amends the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 to require the FEMA Director to develop and implement a State, community, and individual flood and erosion mitigation financial assistance program for structures insured under such Act. Requires such activities to be technically feasible and cost-effective. Provides assistance limitations. Repeals (with a transition period) the current program for the purchase of certain insured properties, as well as the current program for the demolition or relocation of threatened structures. Title V: Task Force, Advisory Council, and Studies - Establishes a two-year interagency Flood Insurance Task Force to: (1) develop standardized flood insurance enforcement procedures; (2) study Federal agency and secondary mortgage market assistance with respect to such enforcement; and (3) study the possibility of existing Federal and corporate flood insurance programs as models for new programs. Establishes the Technical Mapping Advisory Council to undertake certain activities with respect to the preparation, dissemination, and use of flood insurance rate maps. Authorizes appropriations. Requires the FEMA Director to report to the Congress on whether it would be feasible for the national flood insurance program to be administered by the private insurance industry, as well as on such industry's impact on the availability and affordability of flood insurance. Title VI: Miscellaneous Provisions - Amends the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 to: (1) increase flood insurance coverage amounts for nonresidential, single family, and multifamily structures; (2) allow additional coverage for compliance with land use and control measures; (3) permit flood insurance private sector participation; and (4) require an assessment (and revision if necessary) of flood insurance maps (with identification of erosion hazard areas) at least every five years. Amends the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 to: (1) allow for the repair and restoration of certain flood damaged agricultural structures; (2) require the National Flood Insurance Fund to be maintained as a separate account in the Treasury; (3) require the FEMA Director to establish a ten-day waiting period for the initial purchase of flood insurance; and (4) require the Director to include in a certain biennial report the effects of provisions of this Act on the national flood insurance program. Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to prohibit the waiver of flood insurance purchase requirements for recipients of Federal disaster assistance.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1994
Deficit Reduction Lock Box Act of 1994 - Establishes the Deficit Reduction Trust Fund consisting of amounts contained in deficit reduction lock box provisions of appropriations Acts. Reduces discretionary spending limits by amounts transferred to the Fund. Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to require that amounts resulting from reduced spending under general appropriations bills be placed in the Fund. Requires the Congressional Budget Office to score all general appropriations measures as passed by the House and Senate and to publish such scorecard in the Congressional Record.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1994
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Eligible Shareholders of S Corporation Subtitle A: Number of Shareholders Subtitle B: Persons Allowed as Shareholders Subtitle C: Other Provisions Title II: Qualification and Eligibility Requirements for S Corporations Subtitle A: One Class of Stock Subtitle B: Elections and Terminations Subtitle C: Other Provisions Title III: Taxation of S Corpporation Shareholders Title IV: Effective Date S Corporation Reform Act of 1993 - Title I: Eligible Shareholders of S Corporation - Subtitle A: Number of Shareholders - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase from 35 to 50 the maximum number of shareholders of an S corporation (small business corporation). Allows members of a family to be treated as one shareholder. Subtitle B: Persons Allowed as Shareholders - Allows the following entities to be shareholders of S corporations: (1) certain tax-exempt organizations; (2) financial institutions that do not use the reserve method of accounting for bad debts; (3) nonresident aliens; and (4) certain small business trusts. Subtitle C: Other Provisions - Extends the post-death qualification for certain trusts to be permitted as shareholders from 60 days to two years. Title II: Qualification and Eligibility Requirements for S Corporation - Subtitle A: One Class of Stock - Allows an S corporation to issue qualified preferred stock. Permits financial institutions to hold safe harbor debt. Subtitle B: Elections and Terminations - Revises the rules on inadvertent terminations by certain trusts of the election to be an S corporation. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to treat certain late elections as timely and to provide an automatic waiver procedure for certain inadvertent terminations. Expands the post-termination transition period until 120 days after a determination is made that the election had terminated in a prior year. Repeals excessive passive investment income as a termination event. Increases the tax imposed on such excessive income. Subtitle C: Other Provisions - Permits an S corporation to own more than 80 percent of another corporation's stock. Repeals the requirement that partnership rules apply for fringe benefit purposes (making C corporation rules applicable). Provides for the treatment of distributions during loss years. Provides a consent dividend for S corporation elections to by-pass amounts in the accumulated adjustments account when making distributions. Eliminates the need to keep records of certain generally small amounts of earnings arising before 1983. Allows S corporations to make charitable contributions of inventory and scientific property. Title III: Taxation of S Corporation Shareholders - Treats losses on liquidations of S corporations as ordinary to the extent the loss created by ordinary income pass-through triggered the liquidation. Title IV: Effective Date - Makes this Act effective after December 31, 1994.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1994
Requests the President to designate Victoria Van Meter as an honorary goodwill ambassador from the United States to the countries that she visits in the course of her transatlantic flight.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1994
Sets for the rule for the consideration of H.R. 3500 (amending title IV of the Social Security Act with respect to welfare reform).
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1994
Tax Fairness for Agriculture Act of 1994 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to prohibit agricultural or horticultural organizations from treating member dues (limited to a specified amount) as unrelated business taxable income.
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1994
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Portable and Permanent Private Health Insurance Subtitle A: Portability Subtitle B: Permanence Title II: Expansion of Health Care Choices Subtitle A: Employer-Provided Health Insurance Subtitle B: Medical Savings Accounts Title III: Equal Tax Treatment for Health Insurance of Self-Employed and Uninsured Title IV: Small Business Health Insurance Pools Title V: Assistance to Individuals With Preexisting Conditions in Purchasing Health Insurance Title VI: Encourage Responsible Behavior by the Financially Capable Title VII: Assistance to Low-Income Workers to Purchase Health Insurance Title VIII: Reward Preventive Medicine and Healthy Lifestyles Title IX: Reform Medicaid and Expand Choices Under Medicare Subtitle A: Medicaid Subtitle B: Medicare Title X: Enhanced Efficiency Through Paperwork Reduction Title XI: Meaningful Medical Liability Reform Title XII: Antitrust Reforms Title XIII: Expenditure Targets for the Medicaid and Medicare Programs Comprehensive Family Health Access and Savings Act - Title I: Portable and Permanent Private Insurance - Subtitle A: Portability - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to modify required continuation coverage of group health plans by allowing the offering of annual deductibles for such coverage. Terminates such continuation coverage after an individual is eligible for employer-based coverage for more than 90 days. (Sec. 102) Allows penalty-free withdrawals from qualified retirement plans to pay for health insurance during a continuation period. Subtitle B: Permanence - Prohibits an insurer from cancelling an individual or group health insurance plan or denying renewal of coverage except for specified reasons. Prohibits an employer from cancelling a self-insured group health plan or denying renewal of coverage except for similar reasons. (Sec. 112) Requires individual health insurance plans and group health plans to offer insureds the option to purchase new health insurance plans after enactment of this Act. Title II: Expansion of Health Care Choices - Subtitle A: Employer-Provided Health Insurance - Requires an employer-provided health insurance package to include one of the following options: (1) the health insurance coverage provided by the employer on the date of enactment of this Act; (2) coverage in a health maintenance organization, managed care arrangement, or preferred provider organization; or (3) a medical savings account. Subtitle B: Medical Savings Account - Allows a deduction from gross income for medical expenses attributable to coverage under a catastrophic health insurance plan. (Sec. 212) Allows individuals a tax deduction for contributions made to a medical care savings account established for the benefit of an eligible individual or such individual's spouse and dependents. Allows such deduction whether or not an individual itemizes deductions. Disallows distributions from such accounts as medical expense deductions. Excludes employer contributions to such accounts from employment taxes. Establishes an excise tax for excess contributions to medical care savings accounts and for prohibited transactions. Title III: Equal Tax Treatment for Health Insurance of Self-Employed and Uninsured - Allows as an exclusion from gross income such self-employed health insurance costs as do not exceed the national per employee average of the employer-provided contribution excluded from gross income. Excludes certain health insurance costs from employment taxes. Title IV: Small Business Health Insurance Pools - Prohibits: (1) State restrictions on groups purchasing health insurance; (2) State benefit mandates for group health plans; and (3) for five years following enactment, specified State restrictions on managed care. Title V: Assistance to Individuals with Preexisting Conditions in Purchasing Health Insurance - Requires the Secretary to establish and administer a program providing allotments to States for the establishment of State-wide insurance risk pools to provide health insurance coverage to individuals with preexisting conditions. Authorizes appropriations. Title VI: Encourage Responsible Behavior by the Financially Capable - Prohibits any family with an income exceeding 200 percent of the poverty line or who is eligible for a catastrophic health insurance plan as defined in title VII of this Act, but who fails to purchase a plan providing such coverage within one year of enactment from being eligible for the insurance pool program under title V of this Act. Title VII: Assistance to Low-Income Workers to Purchase Insurance - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a refundable tax credit for the cost of premiums for a catastrophic health insurance plan based upon family income and size. Allows the advance payment of such credit. Disallows the use of such credit amount as a medical expense deduction. (Sec. 702) Allows the collection of unpaid debts for medical expenses from individuals who are eligible for such credit but fail to claim it. Title VIII: Reward Preventive Medicine and Healthy Lifestyles - Provides that in the case of any health insurance plan, no provision of State or local law shall apply that restricts the reduction of premiums or the allowance of incentives with respect to such plans for individuals who pursue healthy lifestyles. Title IX: Reform Medicaid and Expand Choices Under Medicare - Subtitle A: Medicaid - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to place a specified formula cap on the Federal payment made each year to a State for furnishing medical assistance to eligible individuals. (Sec. 902) Provides for waivers from Medicaid requirements in order for States to establish innovative and cost-effective programs for furnishing medical assistance to eligible individuals. Subtitle B: Medicare - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to allow an individual to elect health care coverage through either a private health care arrangement or an eligible organization within one year after becoming entitled to benefits under Medicare part A (Hospital Insurance) or forgoing an employer health benefit plan. Details the election process for current Medicare part A beneficiaries. Provides for payments under Medicare to individuals enrolled with such arrangements or organizations, including additional amounts from the Medicare trust funds for individuals enrolled with such arrangements. Title X: Enhanced Efficiency Through Paperwork Reduction - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to adopt standards to reduce the administrative and paperwork burdens of all Federal health care programs by 50 percent within the two-year period following the date of this Act's enactment (initial reduction), and by an additional 50 percent reduction over a subsequent three-year period (subsequent reduction), for a total reduction of 75 percent over the five-year period following such date. Requires the Secretary, to achieve the initial reduction, to adopt standards for Federal health care programs relating to: (1) data elements for use in paper and electronic claims processing under health insurance plans, as well as for use in utilization review and management of care; (2) uniform claims forms; and (3) uniform electronic transmission of the data elements, including protections to assure the confidentiality of patient-specific information and to protect against the unauthorized use and disclosure of information. Directs the Secretary, to achieve the subsequent reduction, to modify by regulation the standards adopted with respect to the initial reduction. Specifies that such modification may include such recommendations as reported by the Standardized Form Commission or any other provisions necessary to meet the goals for reduction in the paperwork burden of Federal health care programs. (Sec. 1002) Requires each State, to be eligible for Federal funds in connection with any State-administered health care program, to standardize the processing of paper and electronic claims to reduce the administrative and paperwork burdens on such programs by 75 percent during the five-year period following enactment of this Act. Sets forth provisions regarding enforcement of this provision and waivers of payment reductions for noncompliance. (Sec. 1003) Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish a Standardized Forms Commission to make recommendations on the standardization of paper and electronic claims processing to reduce the paperwork burden and enhance the efficiency and productivity of claims processing; and (2) submit recommendations to the Congress in the form of an implementing bill. Sets forth procedures for congressional consideration of such bill. Makes a health care provider or insurer that fails to comply with any enacted recommendations of the Commission ineligible for payments of claims submitted under any provision of the Social Security Act or the Public Health Service Act. Title XI: Meaningful Medical Liability Reform - Makes this title applicable with respect to any medical malpractice liability claim or action (such action) brought in State or Federal court, except with respect to certain claims or actions for damages arising from a vaccine-related injury or death. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) preemption; (2) negotiated liability; (3) effect on sovereign immunity and choice of law or venue; and (4) jurisdiction. (Sec. 1102) Prohibits such action from being initiated after the expiration of: (1) the two-year period that begins on the latter of the date the alleged injury that is the subject of the claim was discovered or the date the injury should reasonably have been discovered; and (2) the four-year period that begins on the date on which the alleged injury occurred. Makes an exception for a minor who has not attained age six. (Sec. 1103) Provides that: (1) the liability of each defendant in such action, with respect to economic and noneconomic damages, shall be several only and not joint; (2) such a defendant shall be liable only for the amount of damages allocated to the defendant in direct proportion to such defendant's percentage of fault or responsibility for the injury; and (3) the trier of fact shall determine and assign a percentage of responsibility for each such defendant. (Sec. 1104) Requires: (1) all requests for discovery pursuant to such action to identify the relevant portion of the complaint, answer, or other pleading to which responses to the discovery requests are expected to relate; and (2) the court, with respect to any motion for an order compelling discovery, to award the prevailing party reasonable fees and expenses incurred in bringing or defending against the motion, including reasonable attorney fees, unless the court finds that the position of the unsuccessful party with substantially justified or that special circumstances make such an award unjust. (Sec. 1105) Limits the total amount of noneconomic damages that may be awarded to a claimant and family members to $250,000, regardless of the number of parties against whom the action is brought or the number of actions brought with respect to the injury. (Sec. 1106) Specifies that a defendant may not be required to pay damages awarded for any economic losses to be incurred after the date on which the judgment is entered exceeding $100,000, in a single, lump-sum payment, but shall be permitted to make such payments periodically based on projections of the amount of damages expected to be incurred by the claimant at appropriate intervals, as determined by the court. Permits the court to require that a defendant purchase an annuity or fund a reversionary trust to make periodic payments if the court determines that a reasonable basis exists for concluding that the defendant may be unable or otherwise fail to make the required periodic payments. Specifies that a court judgment awarding such payments may not be reopened at any time to contest, amend, or modify the schedule or amount of the payments in the absence of fraud or any other basis under which a party may obtain relief from a final judgment. (Sec. 1107) Sets forth provisions regarding costs and fees, including limitations on attorneys charging or collecting contingency fees. Establishes recordkeeping requirements as a prerequisite to the receipt of an award of attorney fees. (Sec. 1108) Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) contribution and indemnification; and (2) collateral sources. (Sec. 1110) Prohibits the award of noneconomic damages with respect to any medical product liability claim alleged against a medical product producer if: (1) the drug or device that is the subject of such claim was subject to specified approval or premarket approval under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA); or (2) the drug or device is generally recognized as safe and effective pursuant to conditions established by the FDA and applicable regulations, including packaging and labeling regulations. Makes exceptions in cases of withheld information, misrepresentation, or illegal payment of FDA officials to secure approval. (Sec. 1111) Provides that, in any medical malpractice liability action that is certified as a class action: (1) the share of damages under any final judgment or settlement that is awarded to any party serving as a representative claimant shall be calculated in the same manner as the shares awarded to all other members of the claimant class (but permits the award of reasonable compensation, costs, and expenses relating to the representation of the class); (2) if a party is represented by an attorney who has a beneficial interest in the subject of the litigation, the court shall make a determination of whether such interest constitutes a conflict of interest sufficient to disqualify the attorney; and (3) an attorney may not represent the class if the attorney has paid, or is obligated to pay, a fee to a third party who assisted the attorney in obtaining the representation of any party to the action (and bars an attorney who knowingly violates this provision from representing the party in such action or any action to which this title applies). Title XII: Antitrust Reforms - Directs the Attorney General to promulgate guidelines under which a health care joint venture may submit an application requesting that the Attorney General provide the entities participating in the venture with an exemption under which: (1) monetary recovery on an antitrust claim brought against the entity shall be limited to actual damages if specified conditions are met; and (2) the conduct of the entity in making or performing a contract to carry out the venture shall not be deemed illegal per se. Requires the Attorney General to approve or disapprove the application within a specified time frame and to provide a statement explaining the reasons for any disapproval. Directs the Attorney General to approve the application if an entity participating in the venture submits to the Attorney General an application that contains: (1) the identities of the parties to the venture; (2) the nature, objectives, and planned activities of the venture; and (3) specified assurances and information. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) revocation and renewal of exemptions and withdrawal of an application; (2) requirements relating to notice and publication of exemptions; and (3) issuance of health care certificates of public advantage to each eligible health care joint venture that complies with specified requirements. (Sec. 1203) Establishes the Interagency Advisory Committee on Competition, Antitrust Policy, and Health Care to: (1) discuss and evaluate competition and antitrust policy and their implications regarding the performance of health care markets; (2) analyze the effectiveness of health care joint ventures receiving exemptions in reducing costs and expanding access; and (3) make recommendations to the Congress. Title XIII: Expenditure Targets for the Medicaid and Medicare Programs - Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, not later than 30 days after the end of each fiscal year beginning with FY 1995, to determine the amount of "medicaid excess expenditures" and "medicare excess expenditures" for such fiscal year. Defines such terms for a fiscal year as the amount by which the Federal expenditures under each such program for such fiscal year exceed the target expenditures for each such program. Sets formulas for determining the target expenditures. (Sec. 1302) Provides that if the Director determines that there are Medicaid or Medicare excess expenditures for a fiscal year, specified categories of health insurance benefits (including certain tax credits and exclusions and assistance to individuals with preexisting conditions in purchasing health insurance) that are effective in the applicable taxable or calendar year beginning after such fiscal year may be delayed until the following year. Makes such provision applicable only to so many of such categories in the order in which such categories are listed such that the savings resulting from such delay at least equal the costs of the Medicaid and Medicare excess expenditures.
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1994
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should: (1) not have extended diplomatic recognition to the Skopje regime that insists on using the Greek name of Macedonia; and (2) reconsider this decision and withdraw diplomatic recognition until such time as such regime renounces its use of the name Macedonia, removes objectionable language in paragraph 49 of its constitution (calling for the unification of neighboring territories in Greece and Bulgaria with the Macedonian Republic), removes symbols which imply territorial expansion such as the Star of Vergina in its flag, ceases propaganda against Greece, and adheres fully to Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe norms and principles.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1994
Amends the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 to repeal the peanut price support and quota programs.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1994
Fair Debt Collection Practices Amendments of 1994 - Amends the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act to exclude from the definition of debt collector (and so exempt from the requirements of the Act) any government agency, attorney, or private child support enforcement agency engaged in enforcing the collection of child support in compliance with State child support collection regulations.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1994
Amends rule XI of the Rules of the House of Representatives to require each committee report on each authorization or revenue bill or joint resolution of a public character to contain a detailed analytical statement prepared by the Director of the Congressional Budget Office of the estimated impact of that bill or joint resolution on public and private sector employment over a five-fiscal year period.
United States · United States Congress · 8 February 1994
World War II Peace Accords Commemorative Coin Act - Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the 50th anniversary of the signing of the World War II peace accords on the U.S.S. Missouri should not go unrecognized at the national level; and (2) the United States should recognize such anniversary by minting and issuing a commemorative coin. Sets forth specifications for half dollar clad coins. Mandates that the surcharges received from the sale of such coins be paid by the Secretary of the Treasury to the Admiral Nimitz Foundation for the purpose of preserving the Pacific War heritage of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1994
Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) should be a high priority; (2) all FY 1995 appropriations made for LIHEAP should be expended; and (3) LIHEAP expenditures for FY 1996 should ensure the provision of services at or above the level provided in FY 1995.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1994
Prohibits the Department of Transportation or any other Federal department, agency, or instrumentality from requiring any State or political subdivision to convert highway signs to metric units.
United States · United States Congress · 2 February 1994
Declares that it is the sense of the Congress that any federally-mandated health care reform should be on-budget.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 1994
Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to study and report to the Congress on the feasibility of using biometric devices to verify the identity of applicants and recipients of Aid to Families with Dependent Children under part A of title IV of the Social Security Act.
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 1994
Expresses the sense of the Congress that a postage stamp should be issued to honor the 100th anniversary of the Jewish War Veterans of the United States and that the Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee of the U.S. Postal Service should make such recommendation to the Postmaster General.
United States · United States Congress · 22 November 1993
Commercial Mortgage Capital Availability Act of 1993 - Sets forth a regulatory scheme under which qualified insured depository institutions meeting prescribed reserve and capital requirements may execute mortgage loan transfers with a recourse arrangement. Amends the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to modify the definition of "mortgage related security" to include notes directly secured by a first lien on real estate with commercial structures located upon it (thus bringing such securities within the purview of the Act). Directs the Secretary of Labor to exempt commercial mortgage related securities transactions from: (1) certain restrictions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974; and (2) certain taxes imposed under the Internal Revenue Code. Mandates that securities relying on the provisions of this Act comply with all Federal securities laws relating to disclosure to investors, registrations, reporting and anti-fraud provisions. Requires insured depository institutions to maintain the minimum adequate capital prescribed by regulatory banking agencies when executing mortgage backed securities transactions.
United States · United States Congress · 22 November 1993
George C. Marshall Commemorative Coin Act of 1993 - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to: (1) mint and issue one-dollar silver coins in commemoration of the end of World War II and General George C. Marshall's participation in service during such War; and (2) pay surcharges received from coin sales to the Friends of George C. Marshall to be used solely for the construction of the George C. Marshall Memorial and Visitor Center in Uniontown, Pennsylvania.
United States · United States Congress · 22 November 1993
Public Housing for the Elderly Protection Act - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to limit occupancy of nonelderly single persons in public housing projects for the elderly.
United States · United States Congress · 22 November 1993
Limits the amount an executive agency may obligate for office furniture and decorating after FY 1994, and rescinds a portion of the amounts available for that purpose in FY 1994.