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Official portrait of Sen. Specter, Arlen [R-PA]

Sen. Specter, Arlen [R-PA]

United States · Official source

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5,049 records where Sen. Specter, Arlen [R-PA] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Bill· SS. 980 (101st)referred

Low-Income Housing Credit Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1989

Low-Income Housing Credit Act of 1989 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make permanent the low-income housing income tax credit (under current law the credit will expire after tax year 1989). Permits States a one-year carryover of unused credit authority. Assigns carryovers to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to allocate to eligible States applying for excess credit. Allows the credit only if an extended low-income housing commitment (beyond the current 15-year period) is in effect with respect to any building for the relevant taxable year. Describes procedures to effect transition to a non-low-income use in connection with such extensions. Permits the credit in connection with the acquisition of an existing building only if the taxpayer incurs rehabilitation expenditures of at least $3,000 per unit. Revises rent restrictions to: (1) declare unnecessary a required rent reduction below the initial rent if the median gross income of the area decreases; (2) permit higher rent if units are occupied by higher income individuals and the project has an operating deficit; (3) base income limitations on the number of bedrooms in a unit; and (4) use State median gross income in certain low-income housing status determinations. Broadens categories of existing buildings eligible for a waiver of the ten-year requirement for the low-income housing credit. Revises credit provisions relating to single-room occupancy units and special needs housing. Revises restrictions that limit credit benefits in connection with buildings financed with tax-exempt bonds and below market loans. Permits the credit to be allocated: (1) on a project basis; and (2) in connection with owner-occupied buildings of four units or less if a development plan is submitted. Directs housing credit agencies to adopt plans for allocating credit amounts among projects, prohibiting the credit with respect to any building not included in such a plan. Modifies at-risk rules in connection with buildings subject to the historic rehabilitation credit and those associated with financing provided by certain nonprofit organizations. Sets the tax credit rate on a semiannual basis rather than monthly. Increases the credit in connection with buildings in high cost areas (low-income census tracts or difficult development areas). Establishes special rules for determining the eligible basis and applying at-risk rules in connection with qualified buildings acquired in foreclosures.

Law· SS. 933 (101st)enacted

Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990

United States · United States Congress · 9 May 1989

Americans with Disabilities Act of 1989 - Title I: General Prohibition Against Discrimination - Declares that it shall be discriminatory, on the basis of disability, to deny opportunities or to afford them unequally, to provide opportunities less effectively (or differently or separately, unless necessary for effectiveness), to assist an organization or individual that discriminates, or to otherwise limit opportunities enjoyed by others. Prohibits the use of standards, criteria, or administrative methods that have the purpose or effect of discrimination or perpetuate discrimination. Declares it discriminatory to deny equal opportunities because of the relationship or association of an individual with another individual with a disability. Allows as a defense to a charge of discrimination that an application of standards or criteria has been demonstrated to be both necessary and substantially related to the ability of an individual to take advantage of the essential components of the opportunity, and that the taking advantage cannot be accomplished by reasonable accommodations, modifications, or the provision of auxiliary aids or services. Title II: Employment - Prohibits discrimination by any employer, employment agency, labor organization, or joint labor-management committee against any qualified individual with a disability in job application procedures, hiring or discharge, compensation, advancement, training, and other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment. Lists types of actions construed to be discrimination. Makes the remedies set forth in specified provisions of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other specified Federal law available to any individual who believes that he or she is being or is about to be subjected to discrimination in violation of this Act. Title III: Public Services - Declares that no qualified individual with a disability shall be excluded from the participation in, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination by a State, or by an agency, political subdivision, or other instrumentality of a State. Lists types of actions deemed, for purposes of this Act and specified provisions of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, to be discrimination with regard to public transportation. Makes the remedies and rights set forth in specified provisions of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 available to any individual who believes that he or she is being or is about to be subjected to discrimination in violation of this Act. Title IV: Public Accommodations and Services Operated by Private Entities - Prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in the enjoyment of any place of public accommodation. Lists types of actions construed to be discrimination. Prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in public transportation services provided by a private entity that is primarily engaged in transporting people, but that is not in the principal business of air transportation. Lists types of actions construed to be discrimination. Makes specified provisions of the Fair Housing Act relating to enforcement available, subject to exception, to any aggrieved individual. Title V: Telecommunications Relay Services - Defines "telecommunications relay services" to mean services that enable simultaneous communication between individuals who use telecommunications devices for the deaf (TDDs) or other nonvoice terminal devices and individuals who do not use such devices. Declares it discriminatory for any common carrier that offers telephone services to the public to fail to provide interstate or intrastate telecommunication relay services that are equal to those provided to their customers who are able to use voice services, except in any State in which services are provided through an entity designated by the State. Declares it discrimination by a State that makes such a designation if the State fails to provide interstate or intrastate relay services that are equal to those provided to their voice customers. Makes specified provisions of the Fair Housing Act relating to enforcement available, subject to exception, to any aggrieved individual. Requires the Federal Communications Commission to enforce this title. Makes specified provisions of the Communication Act of 1934 apply with respect to the enforcement of this title. Provides for cease and desist orders by the Commission and for monetary penalties. Title VI: Miscellaneous Provisions - Prohibits retaliatory discrimination against any individual because of actions related to this Act. Declares that a State shall not be immune under the 11th Amendment to the Constitution from an action in Federal court for a violation of this Act. Requires the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board to issue minimum guidelines to supplement the existing Minimum Guidelines and Requirements for Accessible Design. Allows the awarding of reasonable attorney's fees, in certain circumstances, in any action or proceeding under this Act.

Bill· SS. 918 (101st)reported

Fresh Mushroom Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1989

Fresh Mushroom Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to issue an order (subject to producer and importer referendum) creating a fresh mushroom (domestic and imported) promotion, research, and consumer education program. Requires any such order to provide for the establishment of a Mushroom Council. Funds such program through producer, handler, and importer assessments. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· SS. 893 (101st)referred

A bill to establish certain categories of Soviet and Vietnamese nationals presumed to be subject to persecution and to provide for adjustment to refugee status of certain Soviet and Vietnamese parolees.

United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1989

Provides for the establishment of categories of aliens who are subject to persecution in the Soviet Union or in Vietnam and therefore admissible as refugees into the United States. (Deems Jews and Evangelical Christians in the Soviet Union and Vietnamese registered with the Orderly Departure Program to be such categories.) Provides for the adjustment of status to refugee status for certain Soviet and Vietnamese parolees residing in the United States.

Bill· SS. 896 (101st)referred

Pediatric AIDS Resource Centers Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1989

Pediatric AIDS Resource Centers Act of 1989 - Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services, through the Director of the Office of Maternal and Child Health, during each fiscal year, to make grants to eligible consortia to aid in the development of centralized and decentralized Pediatric AIDS Resource Centers. Requires the grants to be used to provide a continuum of care for individuals infected with the HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and the families of such individuals, and to improve the availability of services that prevent HIV infection among women of childbearing age, infants, children, and youth. Sets forth application requirements and provides for the uses of the grant funds, including both health and social services uses. Requires that the grants be made to consortia in areas that have a high incidence of HIV infection among women and children and areas whose low incidence is expected to increase. Requires matching contributions from the recipient consortia in specified percentages, subject to waiver by the Secretary. Limits grants, unless a waiver is issued by the Secretary, to five years. Requires at least ten percent of a grant to be used to promote the medical and social research capability of historically black colleges and universities that are participants in a consortium. Directs the Secretary, in making grants, to give priority to consortia that include minority community-based organizations located in and representative of communities and subpopulations reflecting the local incidence of the syndrome. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1992.

Bill· SS. 894 (101st)referred

Radon Mitigation Clarification Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1989

Radon Mitigation Clarification Act of 1989 - Treats amounts paid for home improvements necessary to mitigate measured harmful levels of radon gas exposure as medical care expenses for purposes of the medical care expense income tax deduction.

Bill· SS. 875 (101st)referred

A bill to prohibit United States contributions to the United Nations or any of its affiliated organizations if full membership as a state is granted to any organization or group that does not have the internationally recognized attributes of statehood.

United States · United States Congress · 1 May 1989

Prohibits the United States from making any voluntary or assessed contributions to the United Nations or any of its affiliated organizations if such entity grants full membership as a state to any organization or group that does not have the internationally recognized attributes of statehood.

Bill· SS. 814 (101st)open

United States Coinage Reform Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 17 April 1989

United States Coinage Reform Act of 1989 - Requires that one dollar coins be gold colored, be at least 90 percent copper, and be fabricated in the United States from natural deposits located in the United States. Redesigns the obverse side of the dollar coin to symbolize the 500th anniversary of the discovery of the New World by Christopher Columbus. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to place such coins into circulation within 18 months. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study and report to the Congress on the advisability of phasing out production of the one-cent and 50-cent coins and of rounding cash sales to the nearest five cents.

Bill· SS. 805 (101st)referred

A bill to amend the Food Security Act of 1985 to permit certain school districts to receive assistance to carry out the school lunch program in the form of all cash assistance or all commodity letters of credit assistance.

United States · United States Congress · 17 April 1989

Amends the Food Security Act of 1985, as amended by the Rural Development, Agriculture, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1988 to make permanent the authority of certain school districts to receive school lunch assistance in cash or commodity letters of credit (in lieu of commodities).

Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 101 (101st)referred

A joint resolution to establish that it is the policy of the United States to encourage and support conservation efforts initiated by Brazil to protect the Amazon Forest and that the United States should redouble its efforts to reduce its pollution of the global environment.

United States · United States Congress · 12 April 1989

Declares that it is the policy of the United States to recognize Brazil's sovereign authority in the Amazon and that the United States should adopt a policy to encourage and support conservation efforts initiated by Brazil to protect the Amazon Forest. Declares that the United States should redouble its efforts to address development within its own borders in an environmentally sound and sustainable manner.

Bill· SS. 746 (101st)referred

Crime Control Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 11 April 1989

Crime Control Act of 1989 - Title I: Gang Violence - Declares that drug trafficking and related gang violence require coordinated and immediate Federal action. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 to the Criminal Division of the Department of Justice (DOJ) for the creation of a new Anti-Gang Unit. Directs the head of such Unit to work with Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies to coordinate the resources necessary to fight gangs. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 to the Office of Justice Programs of the DOJ for anti-drug abuse grants to be allocated to State and local task forces which have programs to alleviate gang activity and drug trafficking. Requires the Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (BATF) to establish direct liaison with State and local law enforcement agencies having responsibility for gang investigations and efforts to combat gang-related firearms violations. Provides for the forfeiture of certain assets by individuals convicted of specified narcotics-related offenses to the Secretary of the Treasury and for the recovery of any such assets transferred to third parties. Establishes a rebuttable presumption at trial that any property of a person convicted of a felony is subject to forfeiture if specified conditions are met. Specifies conditions under which the court may enter a restraining order or injunction or take other action to preserve the availability of such assets. Sets forth procedures with respect to: (1) the seizure and disposition of property subject to forfeiture under this Act; and (2) the protection of third party interests in such property. Urges the President to direct the Attorney General to establish a National Commission on Gang Intervention. Directs the Attorney General to: (1) acquire data on the incidence of criminal acts that involve gang violence for calendar years 1990 through 1995; and (2) publish an annual summary of such data. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1995. Prohibits the transportation of a minor to assist in avoiding detection or apprehension with respect to drug-related activity. Subjects an individual who possesses (under current law, uses or carries) a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence or drug trafficking crime to specified terms of imprisonment. Sets penalties for the distribution of firearms to a minor. Encourages the States to separate in State and juvenile correctional institutions inmates who are identified as members of gangs to ease the violence in prisons between rival gang factions. Authorizes appropriations to the National Institute of Corrections (NIC) of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBP) to provide technical assistance to States to facilitate the separation of gang members in State prisons. Title II: Prison Construction and Reform - Authorizes appropriations to the FBP: (1) for FY 1990 for prison construction and repair of existing facilities; (2) for NIC grants to States for educational programs for criminal offenders in State correctional institutions; (3) for FY 1990 for Federal Prison Industries to expand existing educational, vocational, literacy, employment, and industrial training for inmates in Federal correctional institutions; and (4) for FY 1990 for a drug rehabilitation program to be developed by the Director of the FBP. Requires the Director to determine whether facilities located on military bases recommended for closure may be used as Federal confinement facilities. Authorizes such use of any facility accepted for closure by the Congress. Authorizes the transfer to the Attorney General for prison construction of certain unobligated foreign assistance funds allocated to countries which, as shall be certified by the Secretary of State to the Congress, have failed to make adequate progress in reducing illicit narcotics production. Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to allow the use of Customs Forfeiture Fund amounts for prison construction on an emergency basis. Title III: Career Criminals - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 to the BATF for the Repeat Offender Program and anti-gang activities to hire additional special agent and support personnel. Requires: (1) the National Institute of Justice to conduct a study and to report on the profile and number of career criminals in America; and (2) the DOJ's Bureau of Justice Statistics to compile and maintain statistics for the number of arrests, prosecutions, and convictions nationwide and to publish and make available to the public annual reports. Title IV: Narcotics Investigative and Task Force - Authorizes the payment of any expenses necessary for the implementation and execution of certain narcotics investigative and task force projects from the DOJ Assets Forfeiture Fund.

Bill· SS. 714 (101st)referred

A bill to extend the authorization of the Water Resources Research Act of 1984 through the end of fiscal year 1993.

United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1989

Amends the Water Resources Research Act of 1984 to reauthorize the grant program for water resources research and technology institutes on a dollar-for-dollar matching basis for FY 1989 through 1993. Requires that such funds be used only for the reimbursement of direct cost expenditures incurred for the conduct of the water resources research program. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to conduct an evaluation of each institute every five years to determine if it qualifies for further support. (Currently the Secretary must make such determination every four years.) Extends the authorization of appropriations for the grant program from FY 1989 through 1993. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1993 only for the reimbursement of the direct cost expenses of additional research by institutes which focuses on water problems and issues of a regional or interstate nature beyond those of concern only to a single State and which relates to specific program priorities identified jointly by the Secretary and the institutes. Requires such funds when appropriated to be matched on a not less than dollar-for-dollar basis by non-Federal sources. Extends the authorization of appropriations from FY 1989 through 1993 for the matching grant research program concerning any aspect of a water resource-related problem which the Secretary deems to be in the national interest. Authorizes appropriations to extend the technology grant program from FY 1989 through 1993. Requires rules and regulations issued prior to the date of enactment of the Water Resources Research Act of 1984 to remain in effect until superseded by new rules and regulations promulgated under this Act.

Bill· SS. 695 (101st)open

Educational Excellence Act of 1990

United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1989

Educational Excellence Act of 1989 - Title I: Improving Elementary and Secondary Education - Part A: Presidential Merit Schools - Presidential Merit Schools Act - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to establish the Presidential Merit Schools Program to recognize and reward public and private elementary and secondary schools that have made substantial progress in: (1) raising student educational achievement, especially in reading, writing, and mathematics; (2) creating a safe and alcohol- and drug-free school environment; and (3) reducing the dropout rate. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1993. Authorizes State educational agencies (SEAs) to designate as a Merit School any public or private elementary or secondary school nominated through procedures established by the SEA. Sets forth requirements for selection criteria established by the Secretary of Education (the Secretary) and by SEAs. Provides that each Merit School will be awarded a Presidential Certificate of Merit, as well as funds to further its educational program. Prohibits Federal, State, or local reduction of other assistance to a school because it receives such an award. Part B: Magnet Schools of Excellence - Magnet Schools of Excellence Act of 1989 - Amends ESEA to establish the Magnet Schools of Excellence Program of grants to support public elementary or secondary schools that: (1) offer the highest quality instruction in an academic or vocational discipline or create a unique and effective learning environment; (2) are open to students from beyond the immediate school attendance area; and (3) are capable of attracting students from a variety of backgrounds. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1993. Sets forth criteria for selection of applications. Limits such grants to any one school to no more than two years and requires satisfactory progress in order to receive the grant for the second year. Prohibits Federal, State, or local reduction of assistance to a school because it receives such an award. Part C: Alternative Certification for Teachers and Principals - Alternative Certification of Teachers and Principals Assistance Act of 1989 - Amends ESEA to establish a program of assistance for Alternative Certification of Teachers and Principals. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990. Repeals this part as of October 1, 1990. Part D: Presidential Awards for Excellence in Education - Amends ESEA to establish the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Education Program to recognize and reward outstanding elementary and secondary school teachers. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1993. Makes any full-time public or private elementary or secondary school teacher of academic or vocational subjects eligible for such an award. Makes teachers of religion (other than religion as an academic discipline) ineligible. Allows various individuals, groups, or institutions to nominate teachers for such awards. Requires State panels to select award recipients using criteria approved by the Secretary. Sets the amount of such an award at $5,000, and allows the recipient to use it for any purpose. Part E: Effective Date - Sets the effective date of the amendments made by this title. Title II: National Science Scholars - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) to establish the National Science Scholars Program to recognize student excellence and achievement in the physical, life, and computer sciences, mathematics, and engineering. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1993. Authorizes the Secretary to award scholarships to outstanding students selected as National Science Scholars by the President. Allows students who satisfy certain requirements to receive such scholarships for the first year of undergraduate study and, if they satisfy additional requirements, additional scholarships to cover the remaining undergraduate years. Directs the Secretary to appoint a panel of experts to recommend academic achievement criteria for use in the nomination of scholars. Sets forth requirements for initial and continuation awards. Sets the scholarship amount at $10,000 for an academic year, but reduces such amount based on cost of attendance and other grant or scholarship assistance, and adjusts for insufficient appropriations. Requires that scholarship recipients, to the extent they are otherwise qualified, be given priority consideration for federally financed summer employment in research and development centers. Title III: Other Programs - Amends the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1986 to establish a Drug-Free Schools Urban Emergency Grants program. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1993. Directs the Secretary to use program funds to award a small number of one-time grants to local educational agencies in urban areas with the most severe drug problems to assist them in developing and implementing comprehensive approaches to eliminating such problems. Amends HEA to authorize appropriations for FY 1990 through 1993 for special awards to historically Black colleges and universities. Makes institutions that receive such awards ineligible for other specified awards, and makes institutions that do not receive them eligible for those other awards.

Bill· SS. 681 (101st)referred

A bill to require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue coins in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the statehood of Idaho, North Dakota, South Dakota, Washington, and Wyoming, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1989

Title I: Statehood Centennial Coin - Statehood Centennial Commemorative Coin Act of 1989 - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue not more than a specified number of one-dollar silver coins and five-dollar palladium coins in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the statehood of Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Washington, and Wyoming. Sets forth certain features of such coins and provides for their design, issuance, and sale. Requires the Secretary to provide a specified amount of all surcharges to the Documents West exhibition program with the remaining amount of surcharges to be deposited in the Treasury to be used to reduce the national debt. Requires the Secretary to obtain silver for the one-dollar coins only from stockpiles established under the Strategic and Critical Materials Stock Piling Act. Requires the Secretary to obtain palladium for the five-dollar coins by purchase of palladium mined and refined in the United States. Grants the Comptroller General the right to examine records and other data of the Idaho Centennial Commission. Title II: Silver Proof Sets - Silver Coin Proof Set Act - Authorizes the Secretary to mint and issue silver coin proof sets. Sets forth certain specified features of such coins and provides for their sale to the public. Requires the Secretary to obtain silver for such coins by purchase from stockpiles established under the Strategic and Critical Materials Stock Piling Act and from Treasury stocks on hand.

Bill· SS. 675 (101st)open

Equal Access to Voting Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 17 March 1989

Equal Access to Voting Act of 1989 - Directs the Attorney General to establish an ongoing program to review the voter registration requirements of each State and to require the implementation of programs as necessary to increase voter registration where barriers to registration have had a discriminatory impact on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, or other factors, or have deprived persons of equal protection of the laws by denying them the opportunity to vote. Requires each State to make information available to the Attorney General as necessary. Requires the chief State election official of each State which the Attorney General determines has barriers to registration to submit for the Attorney General's approval a plan designed to eliminate the barriers. Deems a State to have barriers if the percentage of minority registration is less than a level established by the Attorney General by regulation. Requires the State to implement the plan for the first general election following approval and all elections thereafter, suspending it only if and so long as the State maintains the specified percentage. Sets forth criteria regarding: (1) approval of plans; (2) removal of voters from registration lists; and (3) challenges to voters and registrants. Directs the Attorney General to: (1) prepare a State plan if a State fails to submit an acceptable one; and (2) order compliance or bring a civil action for a permanent or temporary injunction against any person, State, or other governmental body that violates the plan or fails or refuses to comply with any such order. Authorizes: (1) courts to assess a civil penalty; and (2) an aggrieved person to intervene as a matter of right in certain circumstances. Provides for fines and imprisonment for false registration, intimidation, coercion, and other acts in connection with registration and voting. Requires Federal, State, county, and municipal agencies that serve the public directly, and any private agency that voluntarily agrees to register voters, to offer nonpartisan voter registration services during the entire year. Authorizes the Attorney General to: (1) make grants to the chief State election official of any State which has an approved plan in order to carry out the plan; and (2) establish an advisory council of State and local election officials to advise States about eliminating registration barriers. Authorizes appropriations for assistance to States. Directs the Attorney General to identify and develop such additional simultaneous applications for voter registration as may be feasible and appropriate where registration barriers have had a discriminatory impact or have operated to deprive persons of the equal protection of the laws by denying them their right to vote.

Bill· SS. 640 (101st)open

General Aviation Accident Liability Standards Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1989

General Aviation Accident Liability Standards Act of 1989 - Declares that this Act supersedes any State law regarding liability for general aviation accidents. Establishes guidelines for uniform standards of liability of general aviation manufacturers for general aviation accidents. States that all actions for harm arising out of a general aviation accident shall be governed by the principles of comparative responsibility. Establishes, with specified exceptions, a limitation of actions period of 20 years from delivery of aircraft or harm-causing part to the purchaser for general aviation civil liability brought against a general aviation manufacturer. Declares admissible as evidence certain income tax and payroll tax liability for purposes of establishing financial harm arising out of a general aviation accident. Permits the award of punitive damages if a claimant establishes by clear and convincing evidence that the harm suffered was the direct result of conduct manifesting conscious, flagrant indifference to safety. Establishes a two-year limitation of actions period for actions arising out of a general aviation accident. Declares the intent of the Congress that sanctions be strictly enforced for violations of Rule 11 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, including orders to pay to the other party the reasonable costs of legal fees. Confers original jurisdiction upon the Federal district courts, concurrently with State courts, for all civil actions for harm arising out of a general aviation accident. Provides procedures for removal from State to Federal district courts of such actions.

Law· SJRESS.J.Res. 85 (101st)enacted

A joint resolution to designate the week of July 24 - 30, 1989, as the "National Week of Recognition and Remembrance for Those Who Served in the Korean War".

United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1989

Designates the week of July 24 to July 30, 1989, as National Week of Recognition and Remembrance for Those Who Served in the Korean War. Authorizes and requests the President to urge that the American flag be flown at half staff on July 27, 1989, in honor of those Americans who died as a result of their service in Korea.

Law· SS. 566 (101st)enacted

Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1989

National Affordable Housing Act - Title I: General Provisions and Policies - Sets forth a national housing goal and the objectives of a national housing policy. Requires State and local entities receiving direct assistance to submit to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development a comprehensive housing affordability strategy. Title II: Homeownership - Amends the National Housing Act to base Federal Housing Administration (FHA) first-time homebuyer loan ceilings on regional median home prices. Authorizes the insurance of industry accepted mortgages under specified conditions. Requires the Secretary to report annually to the Congress regarding mortgage insurance categories. Title III: Investment in Affordable Housing - HOME Corporation Act - Establishes the Government National HOME Corporation in the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Authorizes FY 1990 and 1991 appropriations for activities under this title. Subtitle A: Housing Opportunity Partnerships (HOP) - Authorizes the Secretary, acting through the HOME Corporation, to make funds available for investment in order to expand the affordable housing supply. Directs the HOME Corporation to develop model programs designed to carry out the purposes of this title. Requires participating jurisdictions to target housing for very low- and low-income families. Sets forth affordable housing qualification provisions. Allocates resources by a housing need-based formula and by incentives. Directs the HOME Corporation to establish a housing investment trust fund for each participating jurisdiction. Requires participant matching funds. Sets aside funds for nonprofit community organization housing. Provides penalties for misuse of funds. Subtitle B: Mortgage Credit Enhancement - Authorizes the HOME Corporation to guarantee affordable housing mortgage loan pools. Subtitle C: Other Support for State and Local Housing Strategies - Directs the HOME Corporation to develop the capacity of State and local agencies and profit and nonprofit entities to identify and meet the needs for increased affordable housing, including related housing research. Subtitle D: General Authority of the HOME Corporation - Sets forth operating and authority provisions for the HOME Corporation. Subtitle E: Sets forth administrative provisions for the HOME Corporation. Title IV: Affordable Rental Housing - Subtitle A: Preservation of Affordable Rental Housing - Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act to establish in HUD an Office of Affordable Housing Preservation. Subtitle B: Low-Income Rental Assistance - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to revise the section 8 rental assistance program. Increases FY 1990 and 1991 budget authority for such assistance. Title V: Housing For Persons With Special Needs - Subtitle A: Assistant Secretary for Supportive Housing - Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act to establish in HUD a position of Assistant Secretary for Supportive Housing to administer programs serving elderly, handicapped, or homeless persons, or others with special housing needs. Subtitle B: Supportive Housing for the Elderly - Amends the Housing Act of 1959 to authorize assistance to expand the supply of supportive housing for the elderly. Authorizes FY 1990 and 1991 appropriations. Authorizes assistance to adopt federally assisted housing for the elderly to better meet the needs of frail elderly, handicapped, or temporarily disabled residents. Authorizes FY 1990 and 1991 appropriations. Subtitle C: Supportive Housing for the Handicapped - Authorizes assistance to expand the supply of supportive housing for the handicapped. Authorizes FY 1990 and 1991 appropriations. Subtitle D: Supportive Housing for the Homeless - Amends the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act to authorize grants to States and local government units for homeless housing assistance. Sets forth grant allocation provisions. Permits States and local units to use such assistance for approved activities. Requires grantees to provide matching funds. Authorizes FY 1991 and 1992 appropriations. Requires an annual report to the Congress. Sets forth the following approved activities: (1) emergency shelter; (2) transitional housing for the homeless; (3) permanent housing for the handicapped homeless; and (4) supplemental assistance for facilities to assist the homeless. Increases FY 1990 and 1991 budget authority for the section 8 single room occupancy program. Title VI: Public and Indian Housing - Subtitle A: Public Housing Development - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to authorize the development of new and replacement public housing. Subtitle B: Authorization - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to authorize FY 1990 and 1991 public housing appropriations. Increases FY 1990 and 1991 budget authority for rental rehabilitation and development grants. Obligates FY 1990 and 1991 funds for: (1) Indian housing; and (2) the comprehensive improvement assistance program. Subtitle C: Project Independence - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to provide public housing residents with greater access to employment, day care, educational, and other services. Obligates FY 1990 and 1991 funds for such purposes. Subtitle D: National Commission on Severely Distressed Public Housing - Establishes the National Commission on Severely Distressed Public Housing to identify severely distressed public housing projects, evaluate strategies to eliminate unfit housing conditions, and develop a national plan to achieve such objectives. Authorizes FY 1990 and 1991 appropriations. Title VII: Rural Housing - Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to reauthorize through FY 1991: (1) rural housing insured or guaranteed loans; (2) rental assistance payment contract authority; (3) rental housing loan authority; and (4) mutual and self-help housing grant and loan authority. Authorizes deferred mortgage repayments under specified conditions. Sets aside FY 1990 and 1991 funds for targeted underserved areas. Title VIII: Repeals and Conforming Amendments - Sets forth specified conforming and other related amendments.

Bill· SS. 594 (101st)open

Administrative Law Judge Corps Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1989

Administrative Law Judge Corps Act - Establishes an Administrative Law Judge Corps to be comprised of all current administrative law judges. States that the chief administrative law judge shall be the chief administrative officer of the Corps as well as its presiding judge. Specifies the qualifications for chief judge. States that such judge shall be appointed by the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate. Directs the chief judge to submit a written report to the President and the Congress at the end of each fiscal year concerning the business of the Corps during the preceding fiscal year. Establishes seven divisions within the Corps, with each division headed by a division chief judge appointed by the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate. Identifies the divisions and their respective areas of jurisdiction. Specifies qualifications required for division chief judges. States that the Corps' policymaking body shall be the Council of the Corps comprised of the chief judge and the division chief judges. Authorizes the Council to: (1) assign judges to divisions and to transfer or reassign judges from one division to another; (2) appoint persons as administrative law judges and members of the Corps; (3) file charges against an administrative law judge; (4) prescribe certain rules of practice and procedure for proceedings before the Corps; (5) issue rules and regulations for the efficient conduct of the Corps; and (6) perform other administrative functions. Directs the Council to appoint new judges from a register maintained by the Office of Personnel Management. Confers jurisdiction upon members of the Corps to adjudicate cases under specified sections of the Administrative Procedure Act. Requires cases arising under such sections to be referred to the Corps. Directs the Council to issue regulations for assigning such cases. Requires guidelines for the removal and discipline of administrative law judges. Establishes a Complaints Resolution Board within the Corps to recommend action upon complaints against the official conduct of judges. Details the membership of such Board and the procedures to be followed. Declares Board proceedings and the contents of complaints to be privileged and confidential. Exempts documents and reports considered by the Board from the disclosure and publication requirements of the Freedom of Information Act. Exempts the Board from compliance with the public meeting requirements of specified Federal law. Directs the Corps' chief administrative law judge to study the various types of agency review to which decisions of administrative law judges are subject. Sets guidelines for such studies and directs the Council to report the findings of such studies to the President and the Congress. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· SS. 581 (101st)referred

Hazardous Materials Rail Transportation Safety Act of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1989

Hazardous Materials Rail Transportation Safety Act of 1989 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) issue regulations for emergency response procedures for rail carriers in accident or emergency situations involving the transportation and storage of hazardous materials; (2) require the listing of 24-hour emergency response telephone numbers on hazardous materials shipping papers; and (3) promulgate regulations requiring training courses, certified by the Secretary, to be given by any person engaged in hazardous waste transportation. Amends the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act to direct the Secretary to make grants to the States for emergency response training. Authorizes appropriations out of the Highway Trust Fund for such purpose. Directs the Federal Railroad Administration (the Administration) to increase the number of inspections it conducts on trains, tracks, and major signal systems used in connection with hazardous materials transportation. Mandates that each train carrying hazardous materials be inspected by railroad inspectors at its point of origin. Prescribes an inspection schedule for track and major signal systems associated with hazardous materials shipments. Requires the Secretary to employ and maintain a specified additional number of safety inspectors to implement the inspections required by this Act. Directs the Secretary to enter into a contract with the National Academy of Sciences for a study of railroad tank car design and to report the results of such study to the Congress. Requires the Administration to hire one professional engineer to specialize in the development of improved tank car specifications, regulations, and inspections. Amends the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act to impose criminal penalties upon persons who deface or remove hazardous materials transportation placards. Requires the Secretary to establish procedures for making available to State and local officials copies of enforcement actions against regulation violators. Imposes civil penalties for such violations. Directs the Administration to inspect bridges on hazardous materials transportation routes and to assess the current condition of bridges nationwide to determine if bridge safety regulations are needed. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· SS. 565 (101st)referred

National Affordable Housing Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1989

National Affordable Housing Act - Title I: General Provisions and Policies - Sets forth a national housing goal and the objectives of a national housing policy. Requires State and local entities receiving direct assistance to submit to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development a comprehensive housing affordability strategy. Title II: Homeownership - Subtitle A: FHA Amendments - Amends the National Housing Act to base Federal Housing Administration (FHA) first-time homebuyer loan ceilings on regional median home prices. Authorizes the insurance of industry accepted mortgages under specified conditions. Requires the Secretary to report annually to the Congress regarding mortgage insurance categories. Subtitle B: Savings for a Downpayment - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) authorize certain retirement plans (401(k) plans) to make equity investments in a participant's principal residence; and (2) authorize individual retirement account funds to be used as loans to purchase a home by a first-time homebuyer. Title III: Investment in Affordable Housing - HOME Corporation Act - Establishes the Government National HOME Corporation in the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Authorizes FY 1990 and 1991 appropriations for activities under this title. Subtitle A: Housing Opportunity Partnerships (HOP) - Authorizes the Secretary, acting through the HOME Corporation, to make funds available for investment in order to expand the affordable housing supply. Directs the HOME Corporation to develop model programs designed to carry out the purposes of this title. Requires participating jurisdictions to target housing for very low- and low-income families. Sets forth affordable housing qualification provisions. Allocates resources by a housing need-based formula and by incentives. Directs the HOME Corporation to establish a housing investment trust fund for each participating jurisdiction. Requires participant matching funds. Sets aside funds for nonprofit community organization housing. Provides penalties for misuse of funds. Subtitle B: Mortgage Credit Enhancement - Authorizes the HOME Corporation to guarantee affordable housing mortgage loan pools. Subtitle C: Other Support for State and Local Housing Strategies - Directs the HOME Corporation to develop the capacity of State and local agencies and profit and nonprofit entities to identify and meet the needs for increased affordable housing, including related housing research. Subtitle D: General Authority of the HOME Corporation - Sets forth operating and authority provisions for the HOME Corporation. Subtitle E: General Provisions - Sets forth administrative provisions for the HOME Corporation. Title IV: Affordable Rental Housing - Subtitle A: Preservation of Affordable Rental Housing - Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act to establish in HUD an Office of Affordable Housing Preservation. Subtitle B: Low-Income Rental Assistance - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to revise the section 8 rental assistance program. Increases FY 1990 and 1991 budget authority for such assistance. Title V: Housing For Persons With Special Needs - Subtitle A: Assistant Secretary for Supportive Housing - Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development Act to establish in HUD a position of Assistant Secretary for Supportive Housing to administer programs serving elderly, handicapped, or homeless persons, or others with special housing needs. Subtitle B: Supportive Housing for the Elderly - Amends the Housing Act of 1959 to authorize assistance to expand the supply of supportive housing for the elderly. Authorizes FY 1990 and 1991 appropriations. Authorizes assistance to adapt federally assisted housing for the elderly to better meet the needs of frail elderly, handicapped, or temporarily disabled residents. Authorizes FY 1990 and 1991 appropriations. Subtitle C: Supportive Housing for the Handicapped - Authorizes assistance to expand the supply of supportive housing for the handicapped. Authorizes FY 1990 and 1991 appropriations. Subtitle D: Supportive Housing for the Homeless - Amends the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act to authorize grants to States and local government units for homeless housing assistance. Sets forth grant allocation provisions. Permits States and local units to use such assistance for approved activities. Requires grantees to provide matching funds. Authorizes FY 1991 and 1992 appropriations. Requires an annual report to the Congress. Sets forth the following approved activities: (1) emergency shelter; (2) transitional housing for the homeless; (3) permanent housing for the handicapped homeless; and (4) supplemental assistance for facilities to assist the homeless. Increases FY 1990 and 1991 budget authority for the section 8 single room occupancy program. Title VI: Public and Indian Housing - Subtitle A: Public Housing Development - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to authorize the development of new and replacement public housing. Subtitle B: Authorization - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to authorize FY 1990 and 1991 public housing appropriations. Increases FY 1990 and 1991 budget authority for rental rehabilitation and development grants. Obligates FY 1990 and 1991 funds for: (1) Indian housing; and (2) the comprehensive improvement assistance program. Subtitle C: Project Independence - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to provide public housing residents with greater access to employment, day care, educational, and other services. Obligates FY 1990 and 1991 funds for such purposes. Subtitle D: National Commission on Severely Distressed Public Housing - Establishes the National Commission on Severely Distressed Public Housing to identify severely distressed public housing projects, evaluate strategies to eliminate unfit housing conditions, and develop a national plan to achieve such objectives. Authorizes FY 1990 and 1991 appropriations. Title VII: Rural Housing - Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to reauthorize through FY 1991: (1) rural housing insured or guaranteed loans; (2) rental assistance payment contract authority; (3) rental housing loan authority; and (4) mutual and self-help housing grant and loan authority. Authorizes deferred mortgage repayments under specified conditions. Sets aside FY 1990 and 1991 funds for targeted underserved areas. Title VIII: Amendment to the Internal Revenue Code - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make permanent the low-income housing credit ceiling. Title IX: Repeals and Conforming Amendments - Sets forth specified conforming and other related amendments.

Bill· SS. 552 (101st)referred

Sugar Supply Stabilization Act

United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1989

Sugar Supply Stabilization Act - Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to reduce sugar support price levels beginning in 1989. Increases sugar import levels for 1990 through 1993. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to: (1) endeavor to reduce the difference between the sugar support price and the market stabilization price by using alternative methods to determine transportation differentials and regional loan rates; and (2) report to the appropriate congressional committees.

Bill· SS. 458 (101st)open

A bill to provide for a General Accounting Office investigation and report on conditions of displaced Salvadorans and Nicaraguans, to provide certain rules of the House of Representatives and of the Senate with respect to review of the report, to provide for the temporary stay of detention and deportation of certain Salvadorans and Nicaraguans, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1989

Title I: General Accounting Office Investigation and Report Investigation - Requires the Comptroller General to begin an investigation, within 60 days after enactment of this Act, concerning displaced nationals of El Salvador and Nicaragua. Requires a report to the Congress within one year after initiation of such study. Title II: Congressional Review - Provides for the referral of such report to the appropriate congressional committees for committee hearings and committee reports. Title III: Temporary Stay of Deportation - Provides for a temporary stay of detention and deportation for certain nationals of El Salvador and Nicaragua. Title IV: Miscellaneous Provisions - States that during such temporary stay of deportation period an alien: (1) shall not be considered to be permanently residing in the United States; (2) shall not be eligible for Federal public assistance; and (3) may be deemed ineligible for State assistance.

Bill· SS. 455 (101st)referred

Appalachian Regional Development Act Amendments of 1989

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1989

Appalachian Regional Development Act Amendments of 1989 - Amends the Appalachian Regional Development Act of 1965 to include as a purpose of such Act public investment in severely distressed and underdeveloped counties or areas lacking resources for basic services. Authorizes appropriations for the Appalachian Regional Commission for FY 1990 through 1994. Permits the Commission to lease office space through FY 1994. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1994 for construction of the Appalachian development highway system and local access roads. Increases from 70 percent to 80 percent the maximum Federal share of such highway construction costs. Allows Federal supplements to the Federal grant-in-aid programs to continue through FY 1994. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1994 to carry out such Act. Terminates specified provisions of such Act on October 1, 1994.

Bill· SS. 454 (101st)referred

A bill to provide additional funding for the Appalachian development highway system.

United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1989

Amends the Appalachian Regional Development Act of 1965 to authorize appropriations for FY 1990 through 1994 for the Appalachian development highway system. Directs the Appalachian Regional Commission to allocate funds appropriated under this Act among the States within the Appalachian region according to a specified formula.

Bill· SS. 435 (101st)referred

A bill to amend section 118 of the Internal Revenue Code to provide for certain exceptions from certain rules determining contributions in aid of construction.

United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1989

Amends the Internal Revenue Code with respect to the corporate income tax exclusion of contributions to the capital of the taxpayer. Includes as a qualifying contribution any amount of money or property received by a regulated public utility (a utility required to provide electric energy, gas, water, or sewage disposal services) that: (1) is a contribution in aid of construction (as defined by regulations to be promulgated by the Secretary of the Treasury); (2) meets certain expenditure requirements; and (3) is not included in the taxpayer's rate base. Excludes amounts paid as customer connection fees.

Bill· SS. 419 (101st)open

Hate Crime Statistics Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1989

Hate Crime Statistics Act - Directs the Attorney General to: (1) acquire data, for 1990 through 1994, about crimes that manifest evidence of prejudice based on race, religion, sexual orientation, or ethnicity, including murder, non-negligent manslaughter, rape, assault, arson, and vandalism; and (2) establish guidelines for the collection of such data, including the necessary evidence and criteria for a finding of manifest prejudice. Prohibits: (1) the use of data acquired under this Act other than for research or statistical purposes; and (2) such data from containing any information that may reveal the identity of an individual victim of a crime. Directs the Attorney General to publish an annual summary of such data. Authorizes appropriations.

Bill· SS. 428 (101st)referred

A bill to modernize United States circulating coin designs, of which one reverse will have a theme of the Bicentennial of the Constitution.

United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1989

Requires U.S. coins to be redesigned, at the discretion of the Secretary of the Treasury, over the next six years. Requires the reverse side of the first coin redesigned to commemorate the bicentennial of the U.S. Constitution for a two-year period. Provides that the design on the obverse side of U.S. coins shall contain the likenesses of those displayed on current coins and shall be considered for redesign. Requires any such obverse redesigns to conform to the inscription requirements of current law. Requires the Secretary, in selecting new designs, to consider specified constitutional concepts. Requires the designs to be selected by the Secretary upon consultation with the United States Commission of Fine Arts. Requires that any profits from the sale of uncirculated and proof sets of U.S. coins be deposited in the Treasury and used solely to reduce the national debt.