United States · United States Congress · 24 May 1977
International Safe Container Act - Requires that all containers used in international transport meet minimum safety standards and other requirements as prescribed by the International Convention for Safe Containers. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to prescribe regulations regarding (1) procedures to revoke approval and to invalidate safety approval plates on containers which no longer meet the requirements of the Convention or this Act; (2) fees to be charged for services associated with the approval and examination of containers; (3) initial approval of containers or container designs to meet the safety standards of the Convention; (4) the authorizing and attaching of safety approval plates; and (5) periodic examinations of approved containers to assure continued compliance with Convention safety standards. Authorizes the Secretary to issue detention orders for containers not having valid safety approval plates. Establishes civil penalties for moving containers in violation of a detention order. Prohibits discrimination against employees who have reported the existence of an unsafe container or who have reported violations of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary of State, in conjunction with the Secretary of Transportation, to propose amendments to the Convention or to request a conference to amend the Convention. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, to modify the application of this Act with respect to cargoes of military significance moving in response to an emergency situation in container aboard transportation assets owned by, controlled by, or under contract to the United States Government. Authorizes appropriations in such amounts as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 1977
National Center for the Handicapped Act - Establishes a National Center for the Handicapped within the Office of the Secretary of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Places general supervision of the Center in a Board of Trustees and an Administrator and sets forth the terms of their appointment, responsibilities, and compensation. Directs that the Center consist of education, research, and service components. Directs the Center to perform specified functions, including: (1) developing educational programs and teaching employment skills to the handicapped; (2) developing programs and providing training for educational and rehabilitation staff personnel; (3) developing and implementing programs for the severely handicapped; (4) conducting research and evaluating new techniques in education, training, and placement of the handicapped; (5) providing information services; (6) identifying areas of employment available to the handicapped; and (7) operating model educational and rehabilitation centers. Authorizes the Center to (1) hire additional personnel; (2) receive, sell, or use donated or bequeathed money and property; (3) prescribe regulations; (4) hold hearings; (5) appoint task forces and study committees; (6) secure information from any Federal agency, State, or local authority; (7) obtain the services of experts and consultants; (8) utilize noncompensated personnel and reimburse them for travel expenses; (9) enter into contracts and grants; (10) lease land, office space, and other facilities; and (11) make other necessary expenditures. Requires the Center to submit annual reports to the President and to the Congress beginning with fiscal year 1978. Authorizes the appropriation of $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 and up to $60,000,000 for each succeeding fiscal year to carry out the provisions of this Act. Deems the Act effective upon date of enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1977
Protection of Children Against Sexual Exploitation Act - Prohibits the sexual exploitation of children by making it unlawful for any person to knowingly use or cause any minor to engage in or assist in any sexual act for the purpose of promoting any film, photograph or other visual medium. Makes it unlawful for any parent, guardian or person having control over a minor to knowingly permit such minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct. Imposes a fine of $10,000 and/or imprisonment up to ten years for a violation of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1977
Requires the Federal Communications Commission, in interpreting or implementing policy governing the nationwide telecommunications network, to consider specified matters affecting rural users of telecommunications services. Directs Congress: (1) to initiate studies to determine the potential economic impact of competition in the telecommunications industry; and (2) establish a national telecommunications policy which permits competition in such industry and assures that residents of less densely populated rural areas continue to receive telecommunications services on a par with urban areas.
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1977
Grants a Federal charter to the National Ski Patrol System, Incorporated. Declares that the purpose of such corporation is to promote public safety in skiing.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 1977
Rail Rehabilitation Act - Title I: Findings, Purpose, and Definitions - Declares that the purposes of this Act are to designate an Interstate Railroad System, to rehabilitate the lines within such System, and to transfer to the States the responsibility for maintaining rail lines not included within such System. Title II: Interstate Railroad System - Requires each rail carrier to provide the Secretary of Transportation with specified information regarding its rail lines. Stipulates that the Initial Interstate Railroad System shall be comprised of: (1) all rail lines operated by railroad companies within the United States; (2) all out-of-service but not abandoned rail lines controlled by domestic railroad companies; and (3) such rail lines outside the United States which are operated by a railroad company which operates primarily within the United States and which are deemed essential to the System by the Secretary. Specifies exceptions to such inclusion. Directs the Secretary to prepare and distribute a report containing a description of all rail lines included in the Initial System and a report identifying all rail lines not included in the Initial System and the reason for such exclusion. Directs the Rail Services Planning Office of the Interstate Commerce Commission to hold public hearings regarding the establishment of the Initial System, and to report to the Secretary its recommendations for additions to and deletions from such System. Directs the Secretary, after receiving such recommendations, to prepare and release a summary of an Intermediate Interstate Railroad System. Requires the Secretary to include findings in support of each addition to or deletion from the Initial System. Stipulates that the Intermediate System shall designate the future maintenance standards of each rail line in the System according to specified criteria. Directs the Rail Services Planning Office to hold public hearings to solicit comments on the Intermediate System and to report to the Secretary its recommendations for additions to and deletions from such System. Directs the Secretary, after receiving such recommendations, to prepare and transmit to Congress the Final Interstate Railroad System. Stipulates that the Final System shall contain no deletions from the Intermediate System except those deletions recommended by the Office or approved by the Governor of the State in which the rail lines to be deleted are included. Stipulates that the Final Plan shall contain future maintenance standards for each rail line which are no lower than those contained in the Intermediate System except under specified circumstances. Stipulates that the Final System shall be deemed approved unless either the House of Representatives or the Senate passes a resolution of disapproval within 60 days. Directs that, in the event such a resolution is passed, the Secretary shall submit a revised System to Congress for review. Directs the Secretary, within 90 days of receiving the Office's recommendations regarding the Intermediate System, to establish a rehabilitation, capital improvement, and maintenance program for the restoration of all rail lines in the System to the future maintenance standards set forth in the Final System. Stipulates that this entire program shall be scheduled for completion within 12 years after the enactment of this Act. Directs the Secretary and the Secretary of the Army, within three years after the enactment of this Act, to carry out a study of the long-term capital needs for the major upgrading of the Final System. Directs the Administrator of the Federal Rail Property Administration (as established by this Act) to establish a revised rehabilitation, capital improvement and maintenance program showing the schedule for completion of each element of the program. Stipulates that all rail properties subject to reorganization under the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 shall be part of the Final System. Title III: Federal Rail Property Administration - Establishes the Federal Rail Property Administration within the Department of Transportation. Authorizes the Administration to acquire rail lines and transportation property other than rail lines from any railroad company operating within the United States or whose principal place of business is within the United States. Stipulates that such property may include United States railroads outside the U.S. in contiguous portions of Canada and Mexico where necessary for the Interstate Rail System. Authorizes the Administration to enter into leases with railroad companies which deed rail lines to the Administration for the purpose of providing rail service for a period of not more than 25 years. Stipulates that such a lease shall be renewable. Sets forth provisions to be included in such a lease. Directs the Administrator to establish regulations for the planning and implementation of projects to coordinate, and consolidate railroad operations. Authorizes railroad companies, after the Final System is deemed approved, to offer to transfer all its rail facilities included in the System to the Administration. Authorizes ConRail to offer its rail facilities to the Administration any time 120 days after the enactment of this Act. Requires the Administration to accept title to such rail facilities and to enter into operating leases for such lines within 120 days after receipt of an offer to transfer. Authorizes railroad companies (other than ConRail) to offer to transfer rail facilities before approval of the Final System under specified conditions. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to develop rehabilitation and capital improvement programs for rail properties owned by the Administration. Requires such programs to be incorporated into the leases for such properties. Stipulates that the Administration shall pay the costs of such programs and shall contract with the leaseholding railroad to perform such programs. Directs the Administrator and any rail carrier leasing property to establish a schedule of maintenance for such property after the conclusion of a rehabilitation program. Stipulates that such maintenance shall be the responsibility of the carrier or carriers involved. Directs the Administrator to supply all materials and equipment for such maintenance. Directs the Administrator to report annually to the President and the Congress on the properties owned by the Administration and on the condition of all other rail properties in the nation. Title IV: Funding - Authorizes appropriations in such amounts as may be necessary for each of the 12 years following the enactment of this Act for rehabilitation projects and maintenance projects. Imposes a Rail User Charge on all railroads operating on facilities of the Administration. Stipulates that such charge shall amount to $.20 annually per thousand gross ton-miles of freight, passengers, and rail equipment move on such facilities. Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary, the Interstate Commerce Commission, and the Administrator to carry out provisions of this Act. Title V: State and Local Rail Service Discontinuance and Abandonment - Sets forth conditions for the discontinuance or abandonment of rail service or rail properties transferred to the Administration. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish a Federal aid program in support of State rail planning as required by the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973. Title VI: Labor Contracts - Stipulates that all contracts between rail carriers and labor organizations for maintenance of properties transferred to the Association shall remain in full effect. Authorizes the Association to enter into contracts for the performance of maintenance, rehabilitation and capital improvement projects provided that all employment pursuant to such contracts shall be subject to the terms of labor contracts in force at the time on the property affected.
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 1977
Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and $5,000,000 for each of the four succeeding fiscal years for grants to the States for the establishment and expansion of veterans cemeteries owned by the States. Sets forth the conditions under which grants may be made to the States under this Act. Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to make payments, for the calendar year 1978 and each calendar year thereafter, to the States for the interment of veterans and for the maintenance of State veterans' cemeteries. Requires the Administrator to conduct biennial surveys to determine the reasonable cost of interment and perpetual care maintenance for the purposes of payment under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1977
Bikeway Transportation Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make grants for 80 percent of the cost to States and municipalities of bikeway construction projects in urban territories or connecting such areas with national, State, or local parks, seashores or recreational areas. Requires such bikeway projects to be in accordance with a continuing comprehensive transportation planning process carried on cooperatively by States and local communities and in accordance with construction standards established by the Secretary.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1977
Child Health Assessment Act - Amends Title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to require State plans for the administration of such Title to include a provision for the early periodic screening of physical and mental defects in children under the age of six who are members of families eligible for Aid to Families with Dependent Children. Establishes a Child Health Assessment Program under Medicaid. Requires State Medicaid plans to include the provision of child health assessments and primary care to specified individuals under the age of 21. Directs that child health assessments be provided only by a health care provider who enters into an agreement with the State agency responsible for the administration of the Medicaid plan to: (1) provide to specified individuals periodic health assessments; (2) provide a minimum range of diagnostic and treatment services; (3) be readily accessible on an ongoing basis; and (4) make required reports to the State to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. Allows an individual who has received a health assessment to remain eligible for all care and services provided under the State plan for six months after such individual's family has become ineligible for Medicaid or Aid to Families with Dependent Children. Requires State medicaid plans to provide that the State will encourage participation by physicians and health care centers in the child assessment program and that the State will assure the physicians and health care centers of the availability of appropriate support services. Provides for the funding of the program out of the sums appropriated for State medicaid programs. Allows the Secretary to reduce, by 20 percent, a State's Medicaid funds if the State does not comply with standards promulgated for the Child Health Assessment Program. Allows the Secretary to make additional payments to States that have met the criteria for good performance of the State's Child Health Assessment Program. Sets forth the criteria for determining good performance under such program. Repeals previous provision of the Social Security Act relating to appropriations for Child Health Care Assessment programs.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1977
Declares it the sense of the Senate that the President discuss with Canada the impact of recent provisions of the Canadian tax code on the United States broadcasting industry.
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1977
Authorizes the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration to provide for radio and television coverage of proceedings in the Senate Chamber during the second session of the Ninety-fifth Congress. Directs the Committee to maintain videotapes and recordings of such coverage to be made available to public and commercial broadcasting stations. Directs the Committee to compile a daily written summary of Senate proceedings to be made available to the news media and to Senate Members, officers, and committees.
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1977
Increases the number of students enrolled in the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs at specified educational institutions who may receive financial assistance from the military department concerned.
United States · United States Congress · 20 April 1977
Career Education Implementation Incentive Act - Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums for each of the fiscal years 1979 through 1983 for the purpose of providing Federal incentives to State and local educational agencies and institutions to develop and implement career education programs for individuals of all ages. Directs the Commissioner of Education to reserve certain funds appropriated under this Act to (1) support model programs and other special or demonstration projects and (2) allocate among specified territories of the United States. Sets forth a formula for the distribution of funds to each State. Requires an annual application containing specified assurances, to be submitted by each State desiring to receive funds under this Act. Directs each State to file with the Commissioner a State plan for the utilization of funds received under this Act. Sets for the factors each such plan must contain. Specifies the activities which may be funded by a State with money received under this Act including (1) providing State leadership career education through institutes, training programs, studies, and conferences; and (2) making grants to local educational agencies and to public and private nonprofit institutions of postsecondary education for the purpose of (a) improving career awareness, (b) developing and implementing career guidance services, (c) training of local career education coordinators and (d) establishing and operating career education resource centers. Directs that State grants to local educational agencies and institutions be made in as equitable a manner as possible, having due regard for the special needs of agencies and institutions serving large numbers of disadvantaged students. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants directly to State and local educational agencies and institutions for the purpose of developing career education model programs. Directs the Commissioner to provide for (1) the maintenance and dissemination of career information; (2) the continuous analysis of career trends and options; (3) the publication of periodic reports containing career education information; and (4) the conduct of seminars, workshops, and career information sessions. Directs the Commissioner, to the extent practicable, to (1) utilize existing offices and research capabilities; (2) coordinate offices, centers and research facilities in carrying out his information responsibilities; and (3) use the career information capabilities of the education division. Sets forth the procedure and requirements to be followed by the Commissioner and each State when granting or receiving funds under this Act. Sets forth the duties and responsibilities under this Act of (1) The Office of Career Education; (2) The National Advisory Council on Career Education and (3) The National Institute of Education. Revises The National Advisory Council on Career Education membership requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1977
Legal Services Corporation Act Amendments - Amends the Legal Services Corporation Act to require that at least three persons appointed to fill vacancies occurring between January 1, 1977, and July 30, 1978, on the Board of Directors of the Legal Services Corporation be person eligible to be clients thereunder. Requires that at least one-third of the governing body of an organization formed solely for the purpose of providing legal assistance under such Act be composed of eligible clients. Subjects meetings of the Board of Directors, of executive committees thereof, and of any advisory council established under the Legal Services Corporation Act to Government in the Sunshine Act provisions relative to open meetings. Empowers the Corporation to undertake research and assistance activities with respect to the delivery of legal services by means of contract or grant. Directs that a court provide compensation for an attorney employed by a recipient organization and appointed to provide legal assistance, unless such appointment is made pursuant to a statute or practice applied generally to attorneys practicing before the court. Repeals restrictions on political activities unrelated to legal assistance with respect to attorneys receiving more than one-half their professional income from an organization established for the sole purpose of providing assistance under the Legal Services Corporation Act. Revises guidelines regarding eligibility for, and priorities relative to, such assistance. Revises the limitations on the use of funds made available by the Corporation to (1) permit the provision of legal assistance with respect to criminal matters where a person is charged with an offense involving hunting, fishing, trapping, or gathering fruit of the land, a defense asserted involves rights arising from an Indian treaty, or a person is charged with a misdemeanor or lesser offense in an Indian tribal court; (2) eliminate prohibitions against providing legal assistance to un-emancipated persons less than 18 years of age and in connection with selective service violations, and (3) revise prohibitions relative to formation of associations and military offenses. Authorizes the Corporation to make grants or enter into contracts to pay all or part of the cost of developing and/or operating model projects to expand or improve the delivery of legal services to segments of the population of eligible clients with special legal problems or special difficulties of access to legal services. Authorizes the appointment of independent hearing examiners to preside over hearings to suspend or terminate assistance under the Legal Services Corporation Act.
United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1977
Denies veterans' benefits to an individual whose discharge from military service during the Vietnam era under less than honorable conditions is administratively upgraded, under temporarily revised standards, to discharge under honorable conditions; but only when such veteran's claim for benefits is based solely on such upgraded discharge.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Youth Employment and Training Act - Amends the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act of 1973 to establish a National Young Adult Conservation Corps, to be administered by the Secretary of Labor through interagency agreements with the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture, for the purpose of carrying out projects on Federal or non-Federal public lands or waters. Qualifies for work on such projects United States citizens and lawfully admitted persons who have either (1) attained age 14 but not age 16, (2) attained age 16 but not age 19 and have left school, or (3) have attained age 22 but not age 24. Stipulates that no qualified individual may enroll in the Corps for a total of more than 12 months. Directs the Secretary of the Interior or Agriculture, as appropriate, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor, to determine the location of each residential and nonresidential campsite. Lists type of projects which may be performed by the Corps including (1) silvicultural measures, (2) erosion control, (3) wildlife habitat and range management improvements, (4) recreation development, (5) forest insect and disease prevention and control, and (6) general sanitation. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to enter into agreements with prime sponsors under the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act and with Indian tribes, bands and groups to pay the cost of community improvement projects to be carried out exclusively by persons age 16-21 and certain persons age 14-15 or 22-23. Directs persons seeking to conduct community improvement projects to submit applications containing specified information to entities eligible to enter into agreements with the Secretary. Directs those entities desiring funds to submit a proposed agreement to the Secretary, each such proposed agreement to include project applications approved by the entity's planning council or like organization. Authorizes the Secretary, in reviewing proposed agreements, to approve or deny project applications on an individual basis. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to provide financial assistance to prime sponsors under the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act and Indian tribes, groups, and bands for the provision of employment opportunities and appropriate training and supportive services to unemployed youths and young adults who are members of low-income households. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to establish innovative and experimental programs to test new approaches for dealing with the unemployment problems of youth. Sets forth standards relative to the selection of activities to be funded under this Act and the allocation of funds.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Social Security Cost-of-Living Improvement Act - Requires an annual cost-of-living increase in Federal old-age, survivors, and disability benefits under the Social Security Act. Defines the base periods from which the need for such increases shall be determined. Directs the Secretary of Labor, in consultation with the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, to develop a special Consumer Price Index for the elderly.
United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1977
Social Security Administration Act - Title I: Social Security Administration - Amends Title VII (Administration) of the Social Security Act to establish an independent agency of the Executive branch of the Government, a Social Security Administration, headed by a Board appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Declares that it shall be the duty of the Administration to administer the programs established by titles II (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance), XVI (Supplemental Security Income) and XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, and to discharge the duties and responsibilities imposed on the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare in connection with the administration of the program established by title IV of the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969. States that the Administration shall also have the duty of studying and making recommendations as to the most effective methods of providing economic security through social insurance, and as to legislation and matters of administrative policy. Provides for the appointment of an Executive Director and a General Counsel of the Administration. Makes the Administration responsible for administering the old age, survivors, and disability insurance program, medicare, supplemental security income, and the black lung benefit program under the Coal Mine Health and Safety Act. Prohibits the mailing of announcements with Social Security and SSI checks which make reference by name, title, or signature to any officer of the United States. Transfers to the Social Security Administration: (1) all functions carried out by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare with respect to the administration of programs and activities the administration of which is vested in such administration by reason of this Act; and (2) all personnel, assets, liabilities, contracts, property, and records which the Director of the Office of Management and Budget determines to be employed, held or used by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare primarily in connection with the functions, activities, and programs which, by reason of this Act are vested in or become the responsibility of the Administration. Abolishes the position of Commissioner of Social Security. Title II: Miscellaneous and Conforming Amendments - Makes technical and conforming amendments to the Social Security Act, the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act, the Budget and Accounting Act, and the Executive Schedules of the United States Code.
United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1977
Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to increase from 50 to 90 the percentage of the cost of a water or waste project which the Department of Agriculture may fund by a grant to a local association. Requires that such a grant be in an amount that will leave the average domestic user payment rate in the area served by the project at no more than: (1) one percent of the median family income of the area if such income falls in the lowest 25 percentile of the national median income; (2) one-and-one-half percent, if the median income falls in the 26 to 49 percentile; (3) two percent, if the median income falls in the 50 to 74 percentile; or (4) two-and-one-half percent, if the median income is above the 75 percentile of the national median income. Requires the Secretary of Agriculture to seek State and Federal assistance if the maximum amount of a grant will be insufficient to result in the applicable user cost limitation prescribed. Specifies conditions under which the Secretary may increase the amount of a grant. Revises the priorities for recipients of such grants to accord the highest priority to specified municipalities or public agencies which have a hazardous public health situation (currently, such priority is accorded to municipalities or public agencies which already have community water supply or waste disposal systems, when due to unanticipated occurrences such systems are suddenly inadequate to serve the community needs).
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1977
Expands the program of making grants to States for the construction, remodeling or renovation of State veterans' care facilities to include hospital and domiciliary as well as nursing home care facilities. Authorizes the appropriation of $15,000,000 for fiscal years 1978 and 1979 and states that such sums shall remain available until expended. Repeals the authorization provisions of the existing program, together with the limitation on the amount any one State may receive.
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1977
Title I: - Sets forth the purposes of the Act. Title II: Joint Committee on Atomic Energy - Abolishes the Joint Committee on Atomic Energy. Title III: Transfers of Certain Functions of the Joint Committee on Atomic Energy and Conforming Amendments to Certain Other Laws - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to define the terms "nuclear energy" and "nuclear weapon." Amends the Atomic Energy Community Act of 1955 and the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to transfer the functions and authorities of the Joint Committee, to the congressional committees which under the rules of the House and Senate are assigned jurisdiction over the subject matter of the Acts. Transfers authority formerly held by the Joint Committee regarding the approval of certain electric utility contracts entered into by the Atomic Energy Commission, to such committees. Title IV: Information and Assistance to Congressional Committees - Requires the Energy Research and Development Administration and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to keep the congressional committees having jurisdiction over their functions informed with respect to the activities of the Administration and the Commission. Requires the Department of Defense to keep the congressional committees having jurisdiction over the national security considerations of nuclear technology informed of relevant security matters. Requires the transfer of records of the Joint Committee to the Senate committees having jurisdiction over the subject matter of such records. Title V: Protection of National Security Information - Requires the transfer of all records of the Joint Committee relating to national security to the Senate committees having jurisdiction over such matters. Establishes in the Senate the Office of Classified National Security Information under the policy direction of the majority and minority leaders of the Senate and the chairman of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration to safeguard classified information assigned to it by any Senate committee. Requires the Office to furnish the Committees on Armed Services, on Energy and Natural Resources, on Environment and Public Works, and on Foreign Relations of the Senate with a listing of all those records of the Joint Committee which are to be transferred to such committees under this Act. Title VI: Committee Staff - Requires the transfer of certain staff members of the Joint Committee to the Office of Classified National Security Information upon the abolition of the Joint Committee. Directs that any such staff members not transferred to the Office shall be transferred to the staff of a new committee by the Committee on Rules and Administration in consultation with the chairmen and ranking minority members of the new committees. Title VII: Miscellaneous Provisions - Sets forth the effective date of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1977
Federal Aid in Nongame Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to provide financial assistance to State nongame fish and wildlife conservation programs. Authorizes the Secretary to transfer personnel, equipment, and scientific information to carry out this Act. Sets forth the formula for the apportionment of revenue to the States and limitations upon administrative expenses of the Secretary and the States chargeable to the Nongame Fish and Wildlife Conservation Fund. Permits any amount apportioned to a State but not expended or obligated after two fiscal years to be used by the Secretary to assist such programs in other States. Permits any such amount not paid or obligated by the Secretary at the end of two fiscal years to be made available for any nongame fish and wildlife resource project of the Fish and Wildlife Service. Directs all Federal departments and agencies to coordinate their programs with nongame fish and wildlife conservation projects administered by the States. Directs each Federal department and agency with management authority over land and water resources (1) to determine which programs under its authority may be extended to include conservation of nongame fish and wildlife species, (2) to notify the appropriate State agency of any such affirmative determination, and (3) to cooperate with the establishment of conservation agreements with State agencies for such efforts. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980 to carry out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1977
Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to assist veterans with a permanent and total service-connected disability due to the loss of use of one upper and one lower extremity in acquiring specially adapted housing.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1977
Rural Housing Act - Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to extend the availability of refinancing of indebtedness for rural housing assistance to elderly or handicapped families. Defines elderly or handicapped families for purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a system of escrow accounts to enable borrowers to make periodic payments for taxes, insurance, and other necessary expenses. Authorizes and directs the Secretary to conduct specified programs of research, study and analysis of rural housing. Authorizes the Secretary to make expenditures from the Rural Housing Insurance Fund in order to correct construction defects or to pay claims of the owner of property arising from such defects. Empowers the Secretary to foreclose on mortgages only if the borrower has been given prior notice. Makes changes with respect to the Secretary's power to make rules and regulations. Authorizes increases in assistance to specified rural housing programs for fiscal years 1978 and 1979. Extends rural housing loans for elderly and handicapped families to include congregate housing facilities for families who require some supervision and central services. Requires that at least 60 percent of insured rural housing loans benefit persons of low income. Makes changes in the guaranteed housing loan program and the homeownership subsidy for low and moderate income persons. Makes it mandatory for the Secretary to provide rural rental assistance. Creates the position of Assistant Secretary for Equal Opportunity in the Department of Agriculture. Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to increase the funds available for grants for water and waste facilities. Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to withhold assistance for specified programs from any otherwise eligible borrower who fails to incorporate energy conservation features into any structure commenced by such borrower after January 1, 1978.
United States · United States Congress · 28 March 1977
Water Supply Act - Directs the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of the Corps of Engineers, to study, construct, and operate water storage and water transportation projects to meet present and anticipated water demand. Specifies the water supply costs of such project to be repayable by the water users over a period of 50 years pursuant to contracts with municipalities and other public organizations. Makes the contracting organization responsible for the disposal and sale of water surplus. Requires the revenues from such sale to be used only for operation costs and retirement of the contract obligation.
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1977
Motor Vehicle Emission Control and Fuel Economy Act - Amends the Clean Air Act to extend through model year 1979 interim standards for hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide emissions from light-duty motor vehicles. Specifies standards applicable in model years 1980 and afterwards for such pollutants. Revises the emission standard for carbon monoxide to allow emissions of up to 9.0 grams per vehicle mile. Extends until model year 1981 the current 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard for nitrogen oxide emissions from light-duty vehicles. Establishes a nitrogen oxides emissions standard of 1.0 grams per vehicle mile for model years after 1981, subject to revision or waiver by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency in accordance with prescribed procedures. Stipulates that such revisions and waivers shall not permit emissions in excess of the 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard. Directs the Administrator, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Federal Energy Administration to submit separate reports to Congress regarding the fuel consumption.
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1977
States that the lack of a national policy on investment can adversely affect the economic health and well being of the Nation. Declares the policy of the Federal Government to be that it will provide incentives to assure maximum investment in private enterprise. Requires the President to include in his annual economic report to Congress an Investment Policy Report which shall include information on levels of capital investment available, trends in such levels and reviews of economic programs affecting capital investment.
United States · United States Congress · 15 March 1977
National Consumer Cooperative Bank Act - Title I: National Consumer Cooperative Bank - Establishes the National Consumer Cooperative Bank. States that the Bank shall (1) encourage the development of new and existing cooperatives eligible for its assistance by providing specialized credit and technical assistance; (2) maintain broad-based control of the Bank by its voting stockholders; (3) encourage broad-based ownership, control and active participation by members in eligible cooperatives; (4) assure that the net savings from its operations and the operations of borrowers from the Bank are made available or accounted for to the stockholders or members of the cooperative organization; and (5) assist in improving the quality and availability of goods and service to consumers. Authorizes the creation of no less than four nor more than 12 corporate regional banks. States that the Bank shall have the power to make and service loans, commitments for credit, guarantees, furnish financially related services, technical assistance, and issue obligations. Enumerates additional powers necessary to carry out its powers and duties under this Act. Requires the Bank to hold an annual meeting of stockholders. Permits the Bank to obtain funds through the public or private sale of its bonds, debentures, notes, and other evidences of indebtedness. Authorizes the Bank to make loans to eligible organizations which shall be repayable in not more than 40 years. States that the objective of the Bank shall be to provide the type of credit needed by eligible borrowers, at the lowest reasonable cost on a sound business basis, taking into account the cost of money to the Bank. Defines "eligible cooperatives" for purposes of assistance under this title. Title II: Self-Help Development Fund - Establishes in the Treasury a Consumer Cooperative Self-Help Development Fund. Permits the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration to make a capital investment advance out of the Fund to any eligible cooperative if the Administration determines that the applicants' initial or supplemental capital requirements exceed its ability to obtain a Title I Loan from the Bank or other sources, and the membership of the applicant consists substantially of low-income persons. Title III: Cooperative Technical Assistance - Directs the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration to make available information and services concerning the organization or reorganization of cooperatives to best achieve the objectives of this Act and to best provide the means through which various types of goods, services, and facilities can be made available to members and patrons. States that such assistance may include investigations, surveys, and director and management training and assistance. Authorizes appropriations to the Administration of sums necessary for the administration of this title. Title IV: The Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration and General Provisions - Establishes the Cooperative Bank and Assistance Administration. Directs the Administration to assure that the objectives of this Act are carried out. States that until the stock of the Bank held by the United States has been fully retired the Bank shall be exempt from any form of taxation. Requires the Administration and the Board to report annually to the appropriate committees of Congress on the activities of the Administration and on the Bank's capital, operations, financial condition, the self-help development fund, and to make recommendations for legislation to improve its services.
United States · United States Congress · 14 March 1977
Department of Education Act - Establishes an executive department to be known as the Department of Education to be administered by a Secretary of Education. States that the principal function of such Department is to promote the cause and advancement of education throughout the United States. Transfers to the Secretary specified functions of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare and the Commissioner of Education, and various educational responsibilities of other Federal agencies and instrumentalities. Creates the Federal Interagency Committee on Education and the National Advisory Commission on Education. Redesignates the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, and the Secretary of such Department, as the Department of Health and Welfare, and the Secretary of Health and Welfare.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1977
Small Business Development Center Act - Authorizes the Small Business Administration to make grants to universities to assist them in developing centers to provide small businesses with a broad range of advice, information, and assistance. Limits the amount of such grant to no more than 75 percent of the cost of eligible activities in the operation or development of the center, except for grants to regional centers assisting State centers in research or other high cost activities. Establishes a Small Business Management and Technical Assistance Division within the Small Business Administration to administer the Small Business Development Center program through a Deputy Associate Administrator. Establishes a Small Business Development Center Advisory Board composed of 14 members to advise and confer with the Deputy Associate Administrator for Management and Technical Assistance. Authorizes the Administration to make grants to universities, organizations, and business concerns to support research to solve problems which affect small business concerns.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1977
Prohibits the first salary adjustment which would be made under the Federal Salary Act of 1967 after the date of enactment of this Act from taking effect for the Vice President, Members of Congress, judges, commissioners, and referees, and positions in the Executive Schedule.
United States · United States Congress · 10 March 1977
Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to pay a specified sum to a certain individual in full settlement of such individual's claims against the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 2 March 1977
Repeals the requirement that appointments in the departmental service in the District of Columbia be apportioned among the States, territories, possessions, and the District of Columbia on the basis of population.
United States · United States Congress · 1 March 1977
Extends the provisions of the Food Stamp Act of 1964 through fiscal year 1982. Eliminates the requirement that eligible households purchase their coupon allotments, reduces benefits, and substitutes for the current itemized deductions allowed in calculating household income a new standard deduction of $100, plus deductions for earned income and a limited amount of child care costs. Disqualifies from participation all students 18 years old or older who are or can be legally claimed as dependents of an ineligible household, and all able-bodied adults between 18 and 60 who, with specified exceptions, fail to register for work or to accept suitable job offers. Limits participation to U.S. citizens and legally admitted permanent resident aliens. States the general procedure for the certification, within 30 days, and the prompt recertification of applicant households. Establishes civil penalties as an alternative to disqualification for retail and wholesale food concerns violating provisions of the Food Stamp Act. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make research grants to study how to improve the administration and effectiveness of the food stamp program.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Older Americans Financial Security Act - Authorizes and directs the Secretary of Labor, through the Bureau of Labor Statistics, to prepare, as part of the Consumer Price Index published monthly by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a consumer price index (to be known as the Consumer Price Index for the Aged and other Social Security Beneficiaries) designed to reflect the relevant price information for individuals, as a group, who are 65 years of age or older or are otherwise entitled to monthly benefits under Title II (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. Provides that the automatic cost-of-living increases in benefits which are authorized under Title II (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act may be made on a semiannual basis (rather than only on an annual basis as at present). Modifies the Social Security retirement test by revising the formula for determination of an individual's yearly excess earnings.
United States · United States Congress · 24 February 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow individuals an income tax deduction for all the ordinary and necessary expenses paid or incurred in traveling between the individual's principal place of construction related employment and a temporary construction project work site.
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1977
Health Services Research, Health Statistics, Medical Libraries, Biomedical Research and Research Training Extension Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize appropriations through fiscal year 1978 for: health services, research, evaluation, and demonstration activities supported by such Act; health statistics medical libraries; cancer control programs; the National Cancer Institute; heart, blood, lung, and blood disease prevention and control programs; the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; and National Research Service Awards.
United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1977
Health Services, Hemophilia and Health Planning and Development Extension Act - Title I: Amendments to the Public Health Service Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to extend through fiscal year 1978 the assistance programs for comprehensive public health services, migrant health, community health centers, hemophilia programs, and national health planning and development and health resources development. Repeals the provision of the Public Health Service Act which authorizes project grants to public and nonprofit private agencies for training, studies, and demonstrations for developing comprehensive health plans. Title II: Amendments to the Community Mental Health Centers Act - Amends the Community Mental Health Centers Act to extend through fiscal year 1978 grants for community mental health centers planning and operations. Extends the time period during which the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare must act on an application for a grant to plan a community mental health center to 120 days after the date of submission of the application.
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1977
Federal Mine Safety and Health Amendments Act - Title I: Amendments to the General Provisions of the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969 - Amends the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969 to extend the applicability of the provisions of such Act to mines other than coal mines. Transfers the functions of the Secretary of the Interior in developing health and safety standards to the Secretary of Labor. Title II: Mine Safety and Health Standard Amendments - Amends the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969 to establish the duty of: (1) each mine operator and miner to comply with the health and safety standards of the Act, and (2) each mine operator to furnish a place of employment free from recognized hazards. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to promulgate, modify, or revoke mine health and safety standards in accordance with prescribed criteria and procedures. Authorizes the Secretary to utilize advisory committees in the development of standards. Requires the Secretary to act within 60 days upon recommendations from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Authorizes the Secretary, or the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare: (1) to enter any mine subject to this Act; and (2) to make reasonable inspections and investigations and to question privately employers, owners, operators, agents, or employees. Requires inspections of underground mines at least four times a year. Stipulates that no advance notice of inspections shall be given. Requires the maintenance of records by mine operators with regard to work-related deaths, injuries, illness, miner exposure to toxic substances, and mine accidents. Authorizes special inspections of mines by the Secretary upon request by any miners or representatives of miners where any violation of standards or imminent danger is alleged to exist. Establishes procedures for review of decisions of the Secretary with respect to establishment and enforcement of standards. Establishes procedures for the enforcement of mine health and safety standards through issuance of citations, imposition of civil and criminal penalties, and injunctive relief. Establishes special procedures to counteract imminently dangerous conditions. Requires that copies of all notices, orders, and decisions affecting mine safety in a particular mine be conspicuously posted at such mine site. Stipulates that, in the event of mine closures by orders issued pursuant to this Act, that miners idled as a result of any such order shall be entitled to full compensation for the period they are idled within prescribed limits. Establishes a Federal Mine Safety and Health Commission to supervise the activities of administrative law judges in proceedings brought under the Act. Requires that mine operators establish safety training programs for new miners and for all miners in accordance with prescribed criteria. Directs the Secretary to require that mine rescue teams comprised of Federal mine inspectors be maintained at district and field offices. Authorizes the Secretary and the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish procedures for measuring concentrations of respirable dust. Repeals provisions allowing for modifications of or exceptions from mandatory safety standards for underground mines. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Transfers functions of the Secretary of the Interior with respect to mine health and safety to the Secretary of Labor and the Federal Mine Safety and Health Commission. Directs the Secretary of Labor to establish an advisory committee to review all standards previously promulgated by the Secretary of the Interior. Establishes a Mine Safety and Health Administration in the Department of Labor to carry out mine safety and health functions assigned to the Secretary of Labor. Establishes qualifications and criteria for selection of individuals as mine inspectors. Stipulates that the National Mine Health and Safety Academy shall be maintained as an agency of the Department of the Interior to assist in the training of mine inspectors and other personnel. Repeals the Federal Metal and Nonmetallic Mine Safety Act of 1966.
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1977
Education of the Handicapped Amendments - Authorizes appropriations under the Education of the Handicapped Act for fiscal year 1977 through fiscal year 1982 for developing: (1) regional resource centers; (2) centers and services for deaf-blind children; (3) programs for the early education of handicapped children; (4) special regional education programs; (5) programs for training personnel working with handicapped children; (6) research and demonstration projects; and (7) instructional media for the handicapped.
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) reduce the normal corporate income tax; (2) increase the corporate surtax; and (3) increase the corporate surtax exemption.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1977
Emergency Educational Assistance Act - Directs the Commissioner of Education to make basic grants to educational institutions to pay 50 percent of the costs related to energy conservation measures, including the cost of insulation, remodeling, and renovation of school facilities. Authorizes the appropriation for such basic grants of $300,000,000 for the fiscal year ending 1978 and for each succeeding fiscal year ending prior to October 1, 1981. Sets forth a formula and procedure by which the grants are to be allocated among the States and certain U.S. possessions. Permits the basic grants made to an educational institution to be used in accordance with application approved by the Commissioner. Requires the filing of an application with the Commissioner before any payments may be made for basic grants. Stipulates that such application shall include: (1) assurances that the high cost of fuel, energy shortage, or harsh weather conditions placed the applicant in need of assistance; (2) a full description of the energy conservation measures to be taken; (3) a statement of the policy and procedures to be utilized to assure proper use of such basic grants; (4) procedures for evaluating the effectiveness of the assistance given under such Act; (5) procedures for fiscal control and fund accounting; and (6) a provision requiring the furnishing of reports and the keeping of such records as the Commissioner may reasonably require. Permits the Commissioner to approve an application only if it meets such requirements and it has first been submitted to the appropriate State agency for comment. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to State agencies and educational institutions for 66.6 percent of the costs of demonstration projects involving the development and use of energy conservation measures which show unusual promise of promoting the objectives of this Act. Directs the Commissioner, to the extent practicable, to provide for the equitable distributions of aid among the States for demonstration projects. Prohibits the making of a grant for such project unless the Commissioner: (1) determines that assistance is necessary because of high energy costs, energy shortages, or harsh weather conditions; and (2) has an application submitted to him containing such information as he may reasonably require and specifically including (a) assurances that the project is economically feasible (b) the comparative rate of return of the energy component of such project before and after any changes that have been made; and (c) a description of the feasibility of using such project in other communities. Authorizes the appropriations, for such projects, of $50,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 and for each succeeding fiscal year ending prior to October 1, 1981. Authorizes the Commission to make grants to State agencies and educational institutions for 50 percent of the costs of providing technical assistance for energy conservation measures. Prohibits the making of grants for technical assistance unless the Commissioner determines (1) that such assistance is necessary because of high energy costs, the shortage of energy or harsh weather conditions; and (2) the application contains such information as the Commissioner reasonably may require and specifically includes provisions designed to insure such technical assistance will be shared, to the extent practicable, with private schools in the school district of such agency. Authorizes the appropriation for such assistance of $150,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 and for each succeeding fiscal year ending prior to October 1, 1981. Permits the Commissioner to waive such percentage limitations placed upon approved applications for basic grants or technical assistance and pay the full costs of such projects if he determines that the applicant is suffering from extreme financial need and could not carry out such project. Permits the Commissioner to withhold grants made under such act if after a hearing he finds that an applicant has substantially failed to comply with the requirements of such Act. Stipulates that nothing in this Act shall be construed as authorizing payments for religious worship or instruction. Directs the Commissioner to consult with specified officials and groups before promulgating regulations for the submission and approval of applications under such Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1977
Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to direct the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to promulgate national standards for clinical laboratories. Defines the terms "laboratory" and "clinical laboratory" for purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary to develop job-related proficiency and practical examinations for clinical laboratory personnel, and to develop mechanisms designed to assure the continued competence of such personnel. Directs the development of standards for the proficiency testing of clinical laboratories. Applies such standards to: (1) clinical laboratories engaged in business in interstate commerce; and (2) any other clinical laboratories located in States which do not have primary enforcement responsibility as provided for by this Act for the regulation of such laboratories. Delegates to States the responsibility for primary enforcement of the national standards over clinical laboratories not engaged in interstate commerce and those that are engaged in interstate commerce and located or doing business within the State when responsibility is specifically delegated by the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to establish a system for the licensure of clinical laboratories subject to the national standards promulgated by the Secretary. States that such licenses shall specify the categories of tests and procedures which such laboratory may perform and shall be valid for a period not to exceed 24 months. Sets forth the requirements for issuance, renewal, and revocation of a license. Provides judicial review for any person aggrieved by the revocation of the license of his laboratory. Applies the national standards to Federal clinical laboratories under the jurisdiction of the Secretary and to all other such laboratories, except those under the jurisdiction of the Armed Forces or the Veterans' Administration or those under any agency which has in effect equally stringent standards. Prohibits the solicitation or acceptance of specimens for laboratory tests or procedures by a clinical laboratory which is required to be licensed by the Secretary and which either does not have such a license or is not permitted under such license to perform the planned test or procedure. Establishes a penalty consisting of a fine or imprisonment or both for the violation of such prohibition. Prohibits false or fraudulent billing practices in connection with services provided under the Social Security Act. Establishes a penalty consisting of a fine or imprisonment or both for the violation of such prohibition. Prohibits an employer from taking action against an employee who has assisted or participated in an investigation of such employer pursuant to this Act. Establishes a procedure for investigating and correcting employers' retaliatory actions against employees. Authorizes the Secretary to provide grants and technical assistance to States to assist in meeting the cost of enforcing the standards established for the regulation of clinical laboratories. Establishes an advisory council on clinical laboratories in the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare to advise the Secretary with respect to national standards promulgated under this Act, the implementation and administration of clinical laboratory regulation, and coordination between Federal and State regulatory programs. Directs the Secretary to establish within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare an Office of Clinical Laboratories. States that the purpose of such Office shall be: (1) to establish a uniform regulatory policy for the administration of the functions authorized by this Act, the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and the Medicaid and Medicare programs of the Social Security Act; and (2) to provide guidance for the laboratory components of other health programs administered and enforced by the Secretary. Amends the Social Security Act to prohibit reimbursement under the Medicare, Medicaid or Maternal and Child Health and Crippled Childrens' Services programs for any portion of the cost of a clinical laboratory service which represents a commission, finders fee, or rent which is above the market value of the facility. Prohibits the making of any grant or reimbursement by the Secretary, or the award of any contract under the Medicare or Medicaid programs of the Social Security Act, including but not limited to grants to or contracts with hospitals, or skilled nursing facilities, or in connection with the procurement and reimbursement for clinical laboratory services, unless the laboratory meets the licensing requirements established by the Secretary. Raises the status of the offense of defrauding the Medicare and Medicaid programs from that of a misdemeanor to that of a felony. Increases the maximum fine for such offenses from $10,000 to $25,000. Increases the maximum term of imprisonment from one to five years. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study of existing regulations governing the qualifications of clinical laboratory supervisors, technologists, and technicians, and of the regulatory bodies established to develop and enforce such regulations. Requires such study: (1) to assess the need for national standards for certifying laboratory technical personnel and certifying entities; (2) to project the numbers of laboratory personnel who will be needed in 1980, 1985, and 1990; and (3) to analyze the costs to laboratories of compliance with such national standards should they be promulgated as a result of such study. Directs the Secretary to study the financial arrangements entered into by hospitals, reimbursed for the provision of health services under the Medicare and Medicaid programs, for the provision of clinical laboratory services by persons who provide such services in such hospitals. Directs the Secretary to report the findings of such study to Congress within six months, and that the study include recommendations for such corrective legislation as the Secretary determines to be necessary.
![Official portrait of Sen. Stafford, Robert T. [R-VT]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/s000776_200.jpg)