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Official portrait of Sen. Sarbanes, Paul S. [D-MD]

Sen. Sarbanes, Paul S. [D-MD]

United States · Official source

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4,275 records where Sen. Sarbanes, Paul S. [D-MD] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 179 (104th)passed

A resolution concerning a joint meeting of Congress and the closing of the commemorations for the Fiftieth Anniversary of World War II.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 1995

Requires the Senate and the House of Representatives to assemble in the Hall of the House on October 11, 1995, to remember the veterans and those who served on the home front in closing the commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of World War II. Designates November 4 through 11, 1995, as a Week of National Remembrance and the Closing of the 50th Anniversary of World War II. Calls for National Days of Prayer on November 4 through 5, 1995, and a World War II Education Day across America on November 8, 1995. Requires commemorations during such week to include the dedication of the future site of the Nation's World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. Designates Veterans Day, November 11, 1995, as a "National Day of Observance and Celebration of the 50th Anniversary of World War II. Urges each State Governor and chief executive of political subdivisions of each State to issue a proclamation calling upon citizens to participate on November 11, 1995, at 11 o'clock a.m. in the ringing of the Bells of Peace and Freedom 50 times to signify the 50 years without a world war and the world's hope to achieve another 50 years of peace and freedom.

Bill· SS. 1250 (104th)open

Federal Employee Compensation Protection Act of 1995

United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1995

Federal Employee Compensation Protection Act of 1995 - Amends Federal civil service and armed forces law to provide for the temporary continuance of basic civilian and military pay and associated benefits and allowances of Federal and District of Columbia personnel during any period of lapsed appropriations in which they perform service or are furloughed due to the failure to timely enact appropriations legislation for the employee's agency. Appropriates funds for such purposes, which shall be charged to the applicable appropriation, fund, or authorization whenever the regular appropriation bill becomes law.

Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 25 (104th)open

A concurrent resolution concerning the protection and continued viability of the Eastern Orthodox Ecumenical Patriarchate.

United States · United States Congress · 11 August 1995

Calls for: (1) the United States to use its influence with the Turkish Government and as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council to suggest that the Turkish Government ensure the proper protection for the Patriarchate and all Orthodox faithful residing in Turkey, assure that positive steps are taken to reopen the Halki Patriarchal School of Theology, provide for the proper protection and safety of the Ecumenical Patriarch and the Patriarchate personnel, establish conditions that would prevent the recurrence of past terrorist activities and vandalism and other personal threats against the Patriarchate, establish conditions to ensure that the Patriarchate is free to carry out its religious mission, and do everything possible to find and punish the perpetrators of any provocative and terrorist acts against the Patriarchate; and (2) the President to report annually to the Congress regarding the status and progress of such concerns.

Bill· SS. 1139 (104th)open

Maritime Reform and Security Act of 1995

United States · United States Congress · 9 August 1995

TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Maritime Security Title II: Operating Flexibility and Regulatory Relief Title III: Loan Guarantees and Ship Repair Title IV: Miscellaneous Maritime Reform and Security Act of 1995 - Title I: Maritime Security - Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1936 to mandate establishment of a fleet of active, militarily useful, privately-owned vessels to meet national defense and other security requirements and maintain a U.S. presence in international commercial shipping. Requires that fleet vessels have an operating-differential subsidy agreement and be 25 years old or less (for lighter aboard ship vessels) or 15 years old or less (for other types of vessels). Mandates an operating agreement requiring that vessels be operated in the foreign trade (without restriction, notwithstanding specified existing requirements) or in mixed foreign and domestic trade as allowed under specified registry endorsement provisions. Prohibits otherwise operating them in the coastwise trade. Declares that participation in the Fleet shall not subject a contractor to any requirement under specified provisions. Makes the renewable term of the agreement one year and requires renewal if sufficient funds are available. Mandates, subject to the availability of appropriations, annual payments for each vessel. Establishes an Emergency Preparedness Program under which a fleet vessel, during time of war or national emergency, must make available commercial transportation resources, including vessels or capacity in vessels, intermodal systems and equipment, terminal facilities, intermodal and management services, and other related services as necessary. Requires compensation for resources provided for the commercial diversion period. Allows operation or employment in foreign commerce of a foreign-flag vessel as a temporary replacement for an activated vessel. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 102) Prohibits operating-differential subsidy (ODS) payments for a vessel 25 years old or older, unless in the public interest. Prohibits new ODS contracts after enactment of this Act. Continues existing contracts until they terminate by their terms. Makes essential services requirements inapplicable to the ODS program in certain circumstances. Allows a vessel, notwithstanding any other provision of law, to be transferred and registered under a foreign registry in specified circumstances. (Sec. 103) Prohibits, subject to exception, any contractor or related party from receiving payments while it participates in a noncontiguous domestic trade, except with written permission of the Secretary of Transportation. Requires such permission for changes in sailing frequency, capacity, or domestic ports called. Authorizes permission unless the Secretary finds existing service is adequate or the proposed service would result in unfair competition or would be contrary to the objects and policy of the Act. Requires denial of operating agreement payments while unauthorized noncontiguous domestic trade service is provided. Title II: Operating Flexibility and Regulatory Relief - Declares that provisions prohibiting ODS contractors from operating competing foreign-flag vessels do not preclude owning, chartering, or operating (or some combination thereof) a foreign-flag vessel in specified circumstances. (Sec. 202) Amends the Shipping Act, 1916 to modify the circumstances under which, notwithstanding certain provisions of law, a vessel may be placed under a foreign registry with the approval of the Secretary of Transportation. (Sec. 203) Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1936 to require that, notwithstanding any other provision of law or contract, all restrictions and requirements (under specified provisions) applicable to a liner vessel constructed, reconstructed, or reconditioned with the aid of a construction-differential subsidy terminate 25 years after vessel delivery from the shipyard. (Sec. 204) Makes a liner vessel which is not documented under specified provisions and which meets specified requirements eligible for a certificate of inspection. Declares that a vessel documented as a U.S.-flag vessel under these provisions continues to be eligible for such a certificate by complying with international agreements and associated guidelines. Allows the Secretary of Transportation to rely on a certification from a classification society accepted by the Secretary to establish that a vessel is in compliance with certain requirements. Title III: Loan Guarantees and Ship Repair - Amends Federal ship mortgage insurance provisions to mandate: (1) establishment of a system of risk categories, for obligations guaranteed under the provisions, reflecting specified risk factors; and (2) determination for each category of a subsidy rate equivalent to the average annual cost of obligations in the category. Prohibits guaranteeing obligations when the amount guaranteed, multiplied by the subsidy rate, equals or exceeds appropriated funds. Mandates a fee, determined according to a specified formula, for the guarantee of an obligation. Deems the Secretary of Transportation, for Federal ship mortgage insurance provisions and notwithstanding any other provision of law, to be the "Secretary" with respect to loan guarantee applications to finance the construction, reconstruction, or reconditioning of fishing vessels intended for the export commerce. Prohibits any fishing vessel financed with a Department of Transportation export loan guarantee from engaging in any fishery within the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone. (Sec. 303) Mandates a pilot program to evaluate the feasibility of using long-term contracts for the maintenance and repair of outported vessels in the Ready Reserve Force to enhance the readiness of those vessels. Requires, subject to appropriations, the award of nine contracts. Title IV: Miscellaneous - Amends Federal law relating to merchant seamen protection and relief to extend veterans' benefits to an individual who served as a member of the U.S. merchant marine between August 16, 1945, and December 31, 1946, and who, during that period, was licensed or documented as a crewmember of a vessel that at the time of service was: (1) operated by the War Shipping Administration or the Office of Defense Transportation, or an agent thereof; (2) operated in waters other than inland waters, the Great Lakes, other lakes, bays, and harbors of the United States; (3) under contract, charter to, or property of, the U.S. Government; and (4) serving the armed forces. (Sec. 402) Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1936 to entitle a merchant mariner who serves during a war, armed conflict, national emergency, or mobilization need to the same reemployment rights as are guaranteed to a member of a Reserve component of the armed forces who is ordered to active duty. (Sec. 403) Extends the termination date of the authority of the Secretary of Commerce to provide insurance and reinsurance under provisions relating to war risk insurance. (Sec. 404) Amends the Merchant Ship Sales Act of 1946 to modify one of the circumstances under which a vessel in the National Defense Reserve Fleet may be used, requiring that the Secretary of Defense (currently, the Secretary of the Navy) request the use. (Sec. 405) Amends Federal law relating to the general duties and powers of the Secretary of Transportation to direct the Secretary to report to the Congress each even-numbered year (currently, each year) on the conditions of U.S. public ports.

Bill· SS. 1028 (104th)passed

Health Insurance Reform Act of 1995

United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1995

TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Health Care Access, Portability, and Renewability Subtitle A: Group Health Plan Rules Subtitle B: Individual Health Plan Rules Subtitle C: COBRA Clarifications Subtitle D: Private Health Plan Purchasing Coalitions Title II: Application and Enforcement of Standards Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions Health Insurance Reform Act of 1995 - Title I: Health Care Access, Portability, and Renewability - Subtitle A: Group Health Plan Rules - Prohibits insurers from declining to provide coverage, and plans from establishing certain types of requirements, based on health status, medical condition, and similar factors. (Sec. 102) Mandates plan renewability, except for nonpayment of premiums, termination of the plan, or other specified reasons. (Sec. 103) Regulates the circumstances in which a plan may impose a benefit limitation or exclusion because of a preexisting condition. Allows State laws that limit preexisting conditions to shorter periods than the provisions of this paragraph. (Sec. 104) Mandates special enrollment periods for individuals who have certain types of changes in family composition or employment status. (Sec. 105) Regulates disclosures an insurer must make to a small employer (as defined in State law, or employers with not more than 50 employees if not defined in State law). Subtitle B: Individual Health Plan Rules - Prohibits an insurer from establishing, for an individual in a period of previous qualifying coverage, eligibility, continuation, or enrollment requirements based on health status, medical condition, and similar factors. (Sec. 111) Mandates renewability of coverage for individuals, except for nonpayment of premiums, misrepresentation of material fact, or termination of the plan. (Sec. 112) Requires that State law in effect on, or enacted after, enactment of this Act apply in lieu of the standards above in this subtitle unless the Secretary of Health and Human Services determines that the State law is not as effective in providing access. (Sec. 113) Mandates a study and report on ensuring the availability of health insurance to individuals, the need for Federal premium variation standards, and the effectiveness of this Act and State laws in stabilizing the small group health insurance market by providing for the broad pooling of risk. Subtitle C: COBRA Clarifications - Amends the Public Health Service Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), and the Internal Revenue Code to modify continuation coverage requirements. Subtitle D: Private Health Plan Purchasing Coalitions - Requires a State to certify health plan purchasing coalitions (HPPCs) meeting the requirements of this paragraph. Provides for Federal certification if a State fails to do so. Regulates HPPC organization, duties, and activities. Preempts, for a HPPC meeting these requirements, State fictitious group laws, State rating requirement laws (subject to exception), and other State laws in direct conflict. Applies to HPPCs the requirements of ERISA provisions relating to fiduciary responsibility and administration and enforcement. Title II: Application and Enforcement of Standards - Deems a requirement or standard under this Act imposed on: (1) a plan to be imposed on the insurer; and (2) a self-insured plan to be imposed on the plan sponsor. (Sec. 202) Requires each State to mandate that each plan in the State meet the standards under this Act pursuant to an enforcement plan filed by the State with the Secretary of Labor. Directs the Secretary, for self-insured health plans, to enforce the standards under this Act. Subjects failing plans to civil enforcement under specified ERISA provisions. Provides for Federal enforcement if a State fails to do so. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Amends the Public Health Service Act to allow a health maintenance organization, if notified by a member that a medical savings account has been established for the member and if the member requests, to reduce the basic health services payment by requiring the payment of a deductible for basic health services. Declares that it is the sense of the Senate that the Congress should take steps to further the purposes of this Act.

Bill· SS. 969 (104th)open

Newborns' and Mothers' Health Protection Act of 1996

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1995

Newborns' and Mothers' Health Protection Act of 1995 - Requires a health plan to provide maternity benefits for a minimum hospital stay for a mother and her newborn following the birth of the child. Provides an exception for home births. Prohibits a health plan from modifying the terms and conditions of coverage if the enrollee requests less than minimum coverage. Requires a health plan to provide written notice, prominently positioned in any literature or correspondence, to each enrollee regarding the coverage required by this Act.

Bill· SS. 953 (104th)referred

Black Revolutionary War Patriots Commemorative Coin Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 1995

Black Revolutionary War Patriots Commemorative Coin Act - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue one-dollar silver coins emblematic of the design selected by the Black Revolutionary War Patriots Foundation for the Black Revolutionary War Patriots Memorial in Washington, D.C. Directs that coin sale surcharges be paid to the Black Revolutionary War Patriots Foundation to establish an endowment to support construction of the Memorial.

Bill· SS. 949 (104th)referred

George Washington Commemorative Coin Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1995

George Washington Commemorative Coin Act - Requires the Secretary of Treasury to mint and issue five-dollar gold coins emblematic of George Washington. Mandates that the design for the coins shall be: (1) selected by the Secretary after consultation with the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and the Commission of Fine Arts; and (2) reviewed by the Citizens Commemorative Coin Advisory Committee. Provides for the distribution of coin sale surcharges to the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association.

Bill· SS. 950 (104th)referred

Coastal States Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1995

Coastal States Protection Act - Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to prohibit the Secretary of the Interior from issuing a lease for mineral exploration, development, or production on submerged lands of the Outer Continental Shelf that are seaward of, or adjacent to, specified lands under a State or Federal lease moratorium.

Bill· SS. 940 (104th)open

A bill to support proposals to implement the United States goal of eventually eliminating antipersonnel landmines; to impose a moratorium on use of antipersonnel landmines except in limited circumstances; to provide for sanctions against foreign governments that export antipersonnel landmines, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 1995

Directs the President to support, at the 1995 United Nations review conference, proposals to modify Protocol II to the 1980 Conventional Weapons Convention to implement the U.S. goal of the elimination of antipersonnel landmines. Declares a U.S. moratorium, for a one year period beginning three years after enactment of this Act, on the use of such landmines except along internationally recognized national borders within a perimeter marked area monitored by military personnel and protected by adequate means to ensure the exclusion of civilians. Urges the President to encourage other nations to join in such moratorium. Prohibits the United States from selling, licensing for export, or transferring any defense article or service to a foreign country that sells, exports, or transfers antipersonnel landmines. Authorizes the President to waive such prohibition, after notice to the Congress, if an emergency exists which makes such waiver vital to the interest of the United States.

Bill· SS. 937 (104th)referred

A bill to reauthorize the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Chesapeake Bay Estuarine Resources Office, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 1995

Amends the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Marine Fisheries Program Authorization Act to authorize specified amounts of funds authorized to be appropriated under existing provisions to be appropriated: (1) to operate the Chesapeake Bay Estuarine Resources Office (CBERO); and (2) for the oyster disease program established under amendments made by this Act. Limits the percentage of funds for the CBERO that may be used for administrative expenses. Mandates a program of investigations regarding diseases of the eastern oyster and oysters in coastal U.S. waters, with emphasis on the Chesapeake Bay. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to operate (as well as establish) the CBERO. Authorizes the CBERO's Director to transfer funds to another Federal agency or provide financial assistance to a State or political subdivision agency for conducting research, assessment, monitoring, data management, or outreach.

Bill· SS. 935 (104th)referred

Riparian Forest Pilot Program Establishment Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 1995

Riparian Forest Pilot Program Establishment Act - Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a riparian forest buffer program in certain conservation priority areas.

Bill· SS. 938 (104th)referred

Chesapeake Bay Ballast Water Management Act of 1995

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 1995

Chesapeake Bay Ballast Water Management Act of 1995 - Amends the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 to mandate voluntary guidelines to prevent the introduction and spread of aquatic nuisance species (ANS) into U.S. waters that result from the release of ballast water (currently, into the Great Lakes through the exchange of ballast water prior to entering those waters). Mandates: (1) periodic revisions to regulations to ensure the prevention of the introduction and spread of ANS into the Hudson River; (2) multilingual education and technical assistance measures to encourage guideline compliance; (3) studies, regarding the Chesapeake Bay and other U.S. waters, on trends in ballast water releases and the attributes and patters of ANS invasions from ballast water releases; and (4) a ballast water management program for the seagoing fleet of the Navy to limit ANS invasion risk. Authorizes appropriations to develop and implement provisions relating to prevention of unintentional introductions of ANS.

Bill· SS. 934 (104th)referred

A bill to authorize the establishment of a pilot program to provide environmental assistance to non-Federal interests in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 1995

Directs the Secretary of the Army to establish a pilot program to provide environmental assistance to non-Federal interests in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Requires such assistance to be in the form of design and construction assistance for water-related environmental infrastructure and resource protection and for development projects affecting the Bay's estuary. Permits assistance for a project only if it is publicly owned and will be publicly operated and maintained. Sets forth requirements for local cooperation agreements with non-Federal interests. Sets the Federal share at 75 percent of total project costs. Requires the non-Federal share of operation and maintenance costs to equal 100 percent. Directs the Secretary to establish at least one project in each of the States of Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· SS. 936 (104th)referred

Chesapeake Bay Restoration Act of 1995

United States · United States Congress · 16 June 1995

Chesapeake Bay Restoration Act of 1995 - Revises provisions of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act regarding the Chesapeake Bay to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to: (1) continue the Chesapeake Bay Program; and (2) maintain a Chesapeake Bay Program Office. Requires the Office to support the Chesapeake Executive Council (signatories of the Chesapeake Bay Agreement to protect the Bay) by: (1) implementing activities that support the Program; (2) making available information pertaining to the environmental quality and living resources of the Bay; (3) assisting the signatories in implementing action plans; (4) assisting in the development of strategies to improve Bay water quality and living resources; and (5) implementing outreach programs. Establishes a Chesapeake Bay Federal Agencies Committee to coordinate Federal activities relating to Bay restoration. Directs: (1) the Administrator, at the request of a State affected by the interstate management plan developed pursuant to the Program, to make a grant to implement management mechanisms contained in the plan if the State has approved and committed to implement all or substantially all aspects of the plan; and (2) Federal agencies that own or operate facilities within the Bay watershed to assess the facilities to ensure Program compliance and include a plan or program for addressing such impacts in the report to the President. Requires the Administrator to: (1) establish a habitat restoration program in the watershed to develop and demonstrate cost-effective techniques for restoring wetlands, forest riparian zones, and other Bay habitats (and authorizes grants to public or private entities to carry out such programs); and (2) develop a basinwide toxics reduction strategy, as well as research and monitoring to improve understanding of intermedia transfers of toxic pollutants and the ultimate fate of the pollutants within the Bay ecosystem (and authorizes financial assistance for specified activities). Directs the Administrator to study and report to the Congress: (1) evaluating implementation of the Agreement; (2) determining whether Federal environmental programs and other activities adequately address the priority needs identified in the Agreement; (3) assessing the priority needs required by the Program management strategies and how the priorities are being met; and (4) making recommendations for improved Program management. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· SS. 932 (104th)referred

Employment Nondiscrimination Act of 1995

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 1995

Employment Nondiscrimination Act of 1995 - Prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation by covered entities, including an employing authority to which specified provisions of the Government Employee Rights Act of 1991 or the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 apply. Declares that: (1) this Act does not apply to the provision of employee benefits for the benefit of an employee's partner; and (2) a disparate impact does not establish a prima facie violation of this Act. Prohibits quotas and preferential treatment. Declares that this Act does not apply to: (1) religious organizations (except in their for-profit activities); (2) the armed forces; or (3) laws creating special rights or preferences for veterans. Provides for enforcement. Disallows State immunity. Makes the United States liable for all remedies (except punitive damages) to the same extent as a private person. Allows recovery of attorney's fees. Prohibits retaliation and coercion. Requires posting notices for employees and applicants.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 132 (104th)passed

A resolution commending Captain O'Grady and U.S. and NATO Forces.

United States · United States Congress · 9 June 1995

Commends Captain Scott F. O'Grady for his heroic conduct after being shot down by Bosnian Serb forces. Commends the U.S. and NATO forces involved in Capt. O'Grady's rescue. Expresses the sense of the Senate that U.S. and NATO air crews should not be put at risk over Bosnia unless all necessary actions to address the threat posed by hostile Serbian air defenses are taken.

Bill· SS. 883 (104th)open

Credit Union Reform and Enhancement Act

United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1995

Credit Union Reform and Enhancement Act - Amends the Federal Credit Union Act (the Act) to repeal the power of a Federal credit union to invest in the shares or deposits of any central credit union. Permits an insured credit union to invest in another credit union only if the latter is also insured under the Federal Credit Union Act. Sets conditions under which an insured State-chartered credit union may exercise its asset powers. Brings corporate credit unions within the purview of the Act. Directs the National Credit Union Administration Board (NCUA) to promulgate regulations governing corporate credit unions which establish: (1) limits on loans and investments to a single obligor; and (2) minimum capital requirements. Empowers the NCUA to: (1) appoint itself liquidating agent for any State-chartered federally insured credit union; and (2) close such credit union upon determining it is either insolvent or bankrupt. Precludes the NCUA from exercising such power without prior consultation with the appropriate State credit union supervisory authority.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 118 (104th)passed

A resolution concerning United States-Japan trade relations.

United States · United States Congress · 9 May 1995

Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) it regrets that negotiations between the United States and Japan for reductions in trade imbalances in automotive sales and parts, through the elimination of restrictive Japanese market-closing practices, have collapsed; and (2) if negotiations fail to open the Japanese auto parts market, it supports the President's decision to impose sanctions on Japanese products.

Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 11 (104th)referred

A concurrent resolution supporting a resolution to the long-standing dispute regarding Cyprus.

United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1995

Reaffirms that: (1) the status quo on Cyprus is unacceptable; and (2) all foreign troops should be withdrawn. Welcomes the appointment of a Special Presidential Emissary for Cyprus. Expresses continued support for efforts by the United Nations (UN) Secretary General and the U.S. Government to resolve the Cyprus problem. Insists that all parties to the dispute agree to seek a solution based upon relevant UN resolutions. Supports demilitarization of Cyprus. Encourages the UN Security Council and the U.S. Government to consider alternative approaches to promote a resolution of the dispute based upon relevant Security Council resolutions.

Bill· SS. 684 (104th)open

Morris K. Udall Parkinson's Research, Assistance, and Education Act of 1995

United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1995

Morris K. Udall Parkinson's Research, Assistance, and Education Act of 1995 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to mandate a program for the conduct and support of research and training, the dissemination of health information, and other programs regarding Parkinson's disease. Establishes the Interagency Coordinating Committee on Parkinson's Disease. Requires Core Center Grants to encourage the development of innovative multidisciplinary research and provide training concerning Parkinson's, designating each grant recipient as a Morris K. Udall Center for Research on Parkinson's Disease. Authorizes establishment of the National Parkinson's Disease Data System to collect, store, analyze, retrieve, and disseminate data. Establishes: (1) the National Parkinson's Disease Information Clearinghouse; (2) a grant program to support scientists who have distinguished themselves in Parkinson's research; and (3) a national education program to foster a national focus on Parkinson's and the care of those with Parkinson's. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· SS. 678 (104th)referred

National Aquaculture Development, Research, and Promotion Act of 1995

United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1995

National Aquaculture Development, Research, and Promotion Act of 1995 - Amends the National Aquaculture Act of 1980 to establish the Department of Agriculture (Department) as the lead Federal agency for the development of national policy and programs for private aquaculture. (Sec. 5) Authorizes (currently requires) the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) to: (1) establish within the National Agricultural Library a National Aquaculture Information Center; and (2) assign new aquaculture programs to the appropriate Federal agencies. (Sec. 6) Provides for coordination with the aquaculture industry. (Sec. 7) Directs the Secretary to: (1) implement a national policy for private aquaculture; (2) implement a Department Aquaculture Plan; (3) revise the National Aquaculture Development Plan; and (4) treat private aquaculture as a form of agriculture. (Sec. 8) Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to carry out grant and cooperative agreement programs to demonstrate aquaculture's application to environmental enhancement, including a water-borne pollution assessment program. (Sec. 9) Authorizes the Secretary to carry out grant and cooperative agreement programs for Native American fishpond revitalization. (Sec. 10) Authorizes the Secretary to establish aquaculture education programs in secondary and postsecondary vocational schools. (Sec. 11) Authorizes appropriations for aquaculture programs. (Sec. 12) Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to make aquaculture farmers eligible for farm credit assistance. (Sec. 13) Amends the Agricultural Trade Act of 1978 to authorize the Secretary to establish an international aquaculture information and data collection program. (Sec. 14) Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress with respect to aquaculture information network enhancement. (Sec. 15) Directs the Secretary to develop an aquatic species voluntary quality standards certification plan. (Sec. 16) Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress on progress made in implementing this Act.

Law· SS. 641 (104th)enacted

Ryan White CARE Act Amendments of 1996

United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1995

Ryan White CARE Reauthorization Act of 1995 - Amends title XXVI (HIV Health Care Services Program) of the Public Health Service Act regarding emergency relief for areas with a substantial need for services. Changes requirements for grants to metropolitan areas having large numbers of cases of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Modifies the composition, chairperson requirements, and duties of local human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) health services planning councils. Revises requirements for supplemental grants. Alters the method for determining the amount of each grant, the mandated uses of the grants, and application requirements. Allows a single application for initial and supplemental grants and authorizes both to be made as a single grant. Mandates (currently, allows) technical assistance. Authorizes planning grants. Amends provisions relating to the care grant program to change the uses of HIV care consortia grants and consortium application requirements. Mandates establishment of a recommended minimum formulary of pharmaceutical drug therapies approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Revises: (1) State duties in using grant funds to provide treatments; (2) State application requirements; and (3) planning, evaluation, and administration requirements. Mandates (currently, allows) technical assistance. Mandates grievance procedures to address allegations of egregious violations of title XXVI. Requires coordination of the planning and implementation of Federal HIV programs by the Health Resources and Services Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Amends early intervention services provisions to: (1) require grant recipients to provide a continuum of primary care; and (2) modify other requirements regarding uses of grant funds. Authorizes planning grants to entities that are not direct primary care providers to enable them to provide HIV primary care services. Authorizes appropriations for early intervention grants. Replaces provisions mandating demonstration grants for research and services for pediatric AIDS patients with provisions mandating grants for primary care for out-patient care and support services to children, youth, women with HIV disease, and the families of those individuals and for facilitating the participation of such individuals in research. Requires procedures for the protection of human subjects. Prohibits conditioning services on research participation. Authorizes appropriations. Reserves a specified portion of the amounts appropriated under other parts of title XXVI to administer a special projects of national significance program to award direct grants for special programs for the care and treatment of individuals with HIV disease. Repeals current provisions relating to special projects of national significance. Replaces provisions of the Public Health Service Act authorizing grants and contracts to train the faculty of specified types of health professions schools regarding providing for the health care needs of individuals with HIV disease with provisions authorizing grants and contracts to train health personnel, including community providers, in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of HIV infection and disease. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 4) Amends title XXVI provisions relating to emergency relief for areas with a substantial need for services to modify the formula for determining the amount of grants. (Sec. 5) Amends provisions relating to the care grant program to change the formula regarding minimum grant allotments. (Sec. 6) Authorizes appropriations to make grants under title XXVI provisions relating to: (1) emergency relief for areas with a substantial need for services; and (2) the care grant program. Mandates development and implementation of a methodology for adjusting the percentages allocated to those parts. Repeals existing authorizations of appropriations for those parts.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 91 (104th)open

A resolution to condemn Turkey's illegal invasion of Northern Iraq.

United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1995

Calls upon the President to express strong U.S. opposition to Turkey's invasion of northern Iraq and urges the United States, at the United Nations Security Council, to condemn Turkey's illegal act of aggression and bring about an immediate and unconditional withdrawal. Denounces Turkey's consistent pattern of human rights violations against ethnic Kurds and condemns acts of terror by PKK forces against Turkish civilian and military targets. Supports the maintenance of Operation Provide Comfort and the continuation of other non-governmental humanitarian assistance for the Kurds of northern Iraq.

Bill· SS. 578 (104th)referred

Turkish Human Rights Compliance Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1995

Turkish Human Rights Compliance Act - Requires the President, from the funds available for FY 1996 for assistance for Turkey under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and the Arms Export Control Act, to withhold, first from grant assistance and then from loan assistance, $500,000 for each day that Turkey does not meet the conditions of this Act. Authorizes a presidential waiver of this Act if it is in the national security interest. Considers conditions to be met when the President certifies to the Congress that the Turkish Government: (1) allows free monitoring of the human rights situation within its territory by human rights monitoring organizations; (2) recognizes the civil, cultural, and human rights of its Kurdish citizens, ceases military operations against Kurdish civilians, and takes steps toward a peaceful resolution of the Kurdish issue; (3) takes steps toward the total withdrawal of military forces from Cyprus and supports a settlement recognizing the sovereignty and independence of Cyprus, with a constitutional democracy; (4) removes its blockade of U.S. and international assistance to Armenia; and (5) removes official restrictions on Christian churches and schools and offers sufficient protection against acts of violence, harassment, and vandalism in connection with the clergy and such churches and schools.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 85 (104th)referred

A resolution to express the sense of the Senate that obstetrician-gynecologists should be included in Federal laws relating to the provision of health care.

United States · United States Congress · 8 March 1995

Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) obstetrician-gynecologists should be included as primary care providers for women in Federal laws relating to the provision of health care; and (2) legislative proposals that define primary care should include primary care services performed by obstetrician-gynecologists in such definition.

Bill· SS. 428 (104th)referred

Fish and Wildlife Management Act of 1995

United States · United States Congress · 16 February 1995

Fish and Wildlife Management Act of 1995 - Makes technical changes to the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act. Amends the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966 to designate a portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska as a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System.

Bill· SS. 413 (104th)referred

Working Wage Increase Act of 1995

United States · United States Congress · 14 February 1995

Working Wage Increase Act of 1995 - Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to increase the minimum wage per hour to: (1) $4.70 during the year beginning July 4, 1995; and (2) $5.15 after July 3, 1996.

Bill· SS. 258 (104th)referred

Taxpayer Bill of Rights 2

United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1995

TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Taxpayer Advocate Title II: Modifications to Installment Agreement Provisions Title III: Interest Title IV: Joint Returns Title V: Collection Activities Title VI: Information Returns Title VII: Modifications to Penalty for Failure to Collect and Pay Over Tax Title VIII: Awarding of Costs and Certain Fees Title IX: Other Provisions Title X: Form Modifications; Studies Subtitle A: Form Modifications Subtitle B: Studies Taxpayer Bill of Rights 2 - Title I: Taxpayer Advocate - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to establish in the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) the Office of Taxpayer Advocate, headed by the Taxpayer Advocate, to: (1) assist taxpayers in resolving problems with the IRS; (2) identify areas in which taxpayers have problems in dealings with the IRS; (3) propose changes in the administrative practices of the IRS to mitigate such problems; and (4) identify potential legislative changes which may be appropriate to mitigate such problems. Requires the Commissioner of Internal Revenue to establish procedures requiring a formal response to all recommendations submitted to the Commissioner by the Taxpayer Advocate. Replaces the Office of the Ombudsman with the Office of the Taxpayer Advocate. (Sec. 102) Revises the terms of a Taxpayer Assistance Order to: (1) allow the Order to require the Secretary of the Treasury to act within a specified time period; and (2) require the Secretary to take certain actions (currently, only to cease or refrain from taking certain actions). Title II: Modifications to Installment Agreement Provisions - Grants certain taxpayers the right to an installment agreement for the payment of tax liability less than $10,000. (Sec. 202) Suspends any penalties during the period the installment agreement is in effect. (Sec. 203) Requires prior notification to taxpayers under an installment agreement to pay tax liability before altering, modifying, or terminating such an agreement. (Sec. 204) Provides for administrative review of denials of requests for, or termination of, installment agreements. Title III: Interest - Authorizes the abatement of interest in the case of an assessment due to the unreasonable error or delay of an IRS act. (Sec. 302) Extends from ten to 21 days the period for which interest will not be imposed after notice and demand for payment, if such payment is less than $100,000. Title IV: Joint Returns - Allows the disclosure of collection activities to an individual requesting such information in the case of a joint return where such individual is no longer married to or resides in the same household as the other joint filer. (Sec. 402) Removes limitations on filing a joint return after filing separate returns. Title V: Collection Activities - Authorizes the Secretary, in certain cases, to: (1) withdraw a notice of a lien; (2) return property that has been levied upon; and (3) offer compromises in civil or criminal cases. Requires the Secretary to provide a copy of such notice of withdrawal to the taxpayer and, at the request of the taxpayer, to make reasonable efforts to notify credit reporting agencies and financial institutions of such withdrawal notice. (Sec. 503) Requires prior notification to the taxpayer that the taxpayer is under examination and an explanation of the process, with exceptions. (Sec. 504) Increases the dollar limit on the recovery of civil damages for unauthorized collection actions. (Sec. 505) Revises provisions with respect to a designated summons concerning the standard of review and notice requirements for issuance. Title VI: Information Returns - Requires payee statements to provide the phone number of the person providing payment. (Sec. 602) Establishes civil damages for the fraudulent filing of information returns. (Sec. 603) Requires the Secretary, in any court proceeding where a taxpayer asserts a reasonable dispute with respect to income reported on an information return filed by a third party and the taxpayer has fully cooperated with the Secretary, to present reasonable and probative information concerning such deficiency in addition to such return. Title VII: Modifications to Penalty for Failure to Collect and Pay Over Tax - Establishes preliminary notice requirements for failure to pay tax. (Sec. 702) Directs the Secretary to: (1) disclose certain information where more than one person is liable for a penalty; and (2) ensure that IRS employees are aware of their responsibilities under the tax depository system, the circumstances under which they may be liable for penalties, and reporting responsibilities. (Sec. 703) Exempts unpaid, volunteer board members of tax-exempt organizations who do not have actual knowledge of the failure on which such penalties are imposed from collection penalties. Title VIII: Awarding of Costs and Certain Fees - Authorizes a taxpayer who substantially prevails on a claim to file a motion for an order requiring the disclosure of all information and copies of relevant records in the possession of the IRS regarding such taxpayer's case and the substantial justification for the position taken by the IRS. (Sec. 802) Increases the limit on attorney fees. (Sec. 803) Provides that any failure to agree to an extension of time for the assessment of any tax shall not be taken into account in determining whether a prevailing party has exhausted all administrative remedies. Title IX: Other Provisions - Revises provisions on the required content of tax due, deficiency, and other notices. (Sec. 902) Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) treatment of substitute returns under section 6651 (relating to failure to file a tax return or to pay tax); (2) prospective application of Treasury Department regulations; and (3) required notice to the taxpayer of payments that the Secretary cannot associate with any outstanding tax liability of such taxpayer. (Sec. 905) Authorizes a taxpayer to bring a civil damage suit against the United States if any U.S. officer or employee intentionally compromises the determination or collection of any tax due from an attorney, certified public accountant (CPA), or enrolled agent representing a taxpayer in exchange for information conveyed by the taxpayer for purposes of obtaining advice concerning tax liability, except where conveyed for the purpose of perpetrating a fraud or crime. Title X: Form Modifications; Studies - Subtitle A: Form Modifications - Directs the Secretary to: (1) take steps to ensure that taxpayers are aware of provisions of the Internal Revenue Code permitting payment of tax in installments, extensions, and compromises of tax liability; (2) provide improved procedures for taxpayers to notify the Secretary of changes in names and addresses; and (3) include in the IRS publication entitled "Your Rights As a Taxpayer" a section on the rights and responsibilities of divorced individuals. Subtitle B: Studies - Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish a one-year pilot program for appeals of enforcement actions to the Appeals Division of the IRS; (2) study ways to assist the elderly, physically impaired, foreign-language speaking, and other taxpayers with special needs to comply with the internal revenue laws; and (3) report to the tax-writing committees on the IRS's taxpayer-rights education program and on all cases involving complaints about misconduct of IRS employees. (Sec. 1015) Requires the Comptroller General to conduct: (1) a study on IRS efforts to notify taxpayers of tax deficiencies; and (2) annual studies of the accuracy of 25 of the most commonly used IRS forms, notices, and publications.

Law· SJRESS.J.Res. 20 (104th)enacted

A joint resolution granting the consent of Congress to the compact to provide for joint natural resource management and enforcement of laws and regulations pertaining to natural resources and boating at the Jennings Randolph Lake Project lying in Garrett County, Maryland and Mineral County, West Virginia, entered into between the States of West Virginia and Maryland.

United States · United States Congress · 18 January 1995

Interstate Compact - Grants the consent of the Congress to the Jennings Randolph Lake Project Compact between West Virginia and Maryland to provide for joint natural resource management and enforcement of laws and regulations pertaining to natural resources and boating at the Project.

Bill· SS. 232 (104th)open

Section 515 Rural Multifamily Housing Program Extension Act of 1995

United States · United States Congress · 17 January 1995

Section 515 Rural Multifamily Housing Program Extension Act of 1995 - Amends the Housing Act of 1949 with respect to rural housing to extend set-asides for: (1) targeted underserved areas and colonias; and (2) rental housing funds for nonprofit entities. Repeals loan insurance authority for rural rental housing for elderly or handicapped persons and families or moderate income persons and families. Extends temporarily expiring section 8 contract authority. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· SS. 230 (104th)referred

Humanitarian Aid Corridor Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 January 1995

Humanitarian Aid Corridor Act - Prohibits funds for foreign assistance from being made available for any country whose government prohibits or restricts the transport or delivery of U.S. humanitarian assistance. Waives such prohibition if the President notifies the Congress that providing such assistance is in the national security interest. Provides for a resumption of assistance when the President certifies to the Speaker of the House and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that such country is no longer prohibiting or restricting such transports or deliveries.

Bill· SS. 47 (104th)referred

Firefighters Pay Fairness Act of 1995

United States · United States Congress · 4 January 1995

Firefighters Pay Fairness Act of 1995 - Amends Federal law to extend existing biweekly pay period and pay computation requirements to Federal fire fighters. Repeals the current exception from such requirements for employees on the Isthmus of Panama in the service of the Panama Canal Commission. States that, for fire fighters, the annual rate of basic pay shall be calculated on the basis of 26 administrative biweekly work periods of up to 106 hours each. Prescribes a formula for computing the basic biweekly pay of Federal employees who are not fire fighters but perform fire fighting duties. Requires compensation at time-and-a-half per hour for any hours worked in excess of 106 during a biweekly pay period by fire fighters subject to the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938. Specifies limits on the payment of other premium pay to such fire fighters. Prescribes basic rates of pay for fire fighters: (1) promoted to a supervisory position; and (2) selected and assigned for training. Authorizes a Federal agency to pay cash awards of up to five percent of basic pay to fire fighters or other employees performing fire fighting duties who possess and make substantial use of special skills or certifications, including handling hazardous materials or certification as an emergency medical technician.

Bill· SS. 2489 (103rd)referred

Ryan White CARE Reauthorization Act of 1994

United States · United States Congress · 30 September 1994

Ryan White CARE Reauthorization Act of 1994 - Amends the Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency Act of 1990 (title XXVI of the Public Health Service Act) to limit the grant program for emergency relief for areas with substantial need for services to eligible areas with a population of at least 500,000 individuals. Requires an HIV health services planning council (which advises on the distribution of such grants) to be reflective of the demographics of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic in an eligible area, with particular consideration given to disproportionately affected and historically underserved groups. Revises the method of distributing such grants and extends authorized appropriations for them until FY 2000. Revises the care grant program that makes funds available for individuals and families with the HIV disease. Authorizes the award of supplemental grants to eligible entities to enhance community-based care, treatment, and supportive services through the development and operation of consortia and innovative approaches. Extends authorized appropriations for such grant program through FY 2000. Requires the establishment of grievance procedures to address allegations of egregious violations of title XXVI of the Public Health Service Act. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to coordinate the planning and implementation of Federal HIV programs to facilitate the development of a complete continuum of HIV-related services for individuals with HIV disease and those at risk of such disease. Extends authorized appropriations for early intervention services until FY 2000. Extends authorized appropriations until FY 2000 for grants for coordinated services and access to research for children, youth, women, and families (formerly known as demonstration grants for research and services for pediatric patients regarding acquired immune deficiency syndrome). Makes appropriations available for special projects of national significance program to award direct grants to public and nonprofit private entities to fund special programs for the care and treatment of individuals with HIV disease.