United States · United States Congress · 1 February 1973
Consumer Protection Organization Act - Declares that it is the purpose of this Act to protect and promote the interests of the people of the United States as consumers of goods and services, which are made available to them through commerce or which affect commerce, by establishing a Council of Consumer Advisers, an independent Consumer Protection Agency, and a program of grants to States, local and private nonprofit consumer protection agencies and organizations. Title I: Council of Consumer Advisers - Requires the President to transmit to the Congress not later than February 1 of each year a Consumer Report of the President which shall include an analysis, evaluation, and review of: (1) the overall impact of Federal programs and activities upon consumers; (2) the effectiveness of Federal consumer protection programs and activities: (3) the degree of cooperation and coordination among Federal agencies in carrying out consumer protection programs and activities.; (4) a program for remedying any deficiencies or weaknesses in Federal consumer protection programs and activities; and (5) national policies and resources for achieving the purposes of this Act together with recommendations for new legislation. Establishes in the Executive Office of the President a Council of Consumer Advisors which shall be composed of three members appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Sets forth the functions of the Council. Authorizes to be appropriated $1,500,000 annually for fiscal year 1974 - 1975 to carry the provisions of this title. Title II: Consumer Protection Agency - Establishes the Consumer Protection Agency as an independent nonregulatory agency in the executive branch of the Government. Provides that the Agency shall be headed by an Administrator appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for a term of four years coterminous with the term of the President. Sets forth the functions of the Administrator, including: (1) to represent the interests of consumers before Federal agencies and Federal courts in accordance with this title; (2) to make grants to States and localities to encourage and assist consumer protection programs; (3) to receive and transmit complaints from consumers; (4) to disseminate to the public information of importance to consumers; and (5) to encourage private enterprise in the promotion and protection of the interests of consumers. Grants the Administrator authority to intervene and participate in the proceedings of Federal agencies if he determines that such proceedings may substantially affect an important interest of consumers. Provides that such proceedings must be subject to specified provisions of the Administrative procedure Act. Grants the Administrator the right to participate in Federal agency activity which is not covered by the specified provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act. Provides that whenever the Administrator determines that it would be in the interest of consumers to do so, he may request or petition a Federal agency to initiate a proceeding or activity or to take such other action as may be within the authority of such agency. Allows the Administrator to use an agency's discovery process where he is intervening or participating in an agency proceeding or activity. Authorizes the Administrator to intervene as a party or to participate in any State or local agency or court proceeding, except a criminal proceeding, where the Administrator determines that the result of such proceeding may substantially affect an important interest of consumers and when such participation has been requested in writing by an appropriate State official or agency or by the Governor of the State. Authorizes the Administrator to secure judicial review of any Federal agency action reviewable under law. Provides that each Federal agency considering any action which may substantially affect an important interest of consumers shall, upon request by the Administrator, notify him of any such proceeding or activity at such time as public notice is given. States that the Administrator shall conduct, support, and assist research, studies, investigations, conferences, and surveys concerning the interests of consumers. Authorizes the Administrator, subject to the provisions of this title, to disclose to the public information he determines appropriate in carrying out the purposes of this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated to carry out the provisions of this title $l5,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, and $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1976. Title III: Consumer Protection Grants - Authorizes to be appropriated $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1974 and $40,000,000 for fiscal year 1975 to carry out the provisions of this title. Provides that the Administrator shall make planning and program grants to States and local public agencies to assist in the preparation and operation of consumer protection programs. States that the Federal share of any such program shall not exceed 75 percent of the costs of such program. Provides that no State shall receive more than 15 percent of such funds. Provides that no grants shall be made under this title unless an application therefor has been submitted to, and approved by, the Administrator, meeting specified criteria. Title IV: General Provisions - Sets forth definitions of terms used in this Act. Provides for public participation in agency activity. Exempts the Central Intelligence Agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the National Security Agency, the national security or intelligence functions of the Department of Defense including the Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, and the Office of Emergency Preparedness from the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1973
Japan-United States Friendship Act - Declares it to be the purpose of this Act to provide for the use of part of the sums to be paid by Japan to the United States in connection with the reversion of Okinawa to Japanese administration in order to enhance the understanding and support of the close friendship and mutuality of interest between our two nations. Establishes in the Treasury of the United States a trust fund to be known as the Japan- United States Friendship Trust Fund. Requires such amounts in the fund to be used for the promotion of scholarly, cultural, and artistic activities between Japan and the United States. Provides that amounts in the fund may also be used to pay administrative expenses of the Japan-United States Friendship Commission. Establishes such Commission and authorizes it to develop and carry out programs for the promotion of scholarly, cultural and artistic activities by Japan and the United States, and to make grants to carry out such programs. Makes administrative provisions to enable the Commission to carry out its functions under this Act. States that the Japan-United States Friendship Trust Fund shall consist of: (1) 10 percent of the funds paid to the United States pursuant to the agreement between Japan and the United States concerning the Ryukyu Islands and the Daito Islands; (2) any other amounts received by the fund by way of gifts and donations; and (3) interest and proceeds credited to it from portions of the fund invested by the Secretary of the Treasury. Provides that such investments may be made only in interest-bearing obligations of the United States or in obligations guaranteed as to both principal and interest by the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1973
Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to make grants to private nonprofit organizations and any public agency of a unit of local government in any State to develop programs to detect and treat incidents of lead-based paint poisoning under the Lead Based Paint Poisoning Prevention Act. Increases from seventy-five percent to ninety percent the limit on the Federal share of the cost of developing such programs. Stipulates that any organizations receiving funds under this Act shall make available to the Secretary and the Comptroller General of the United States any books and records necessary to assist them in auditing funds received under this Act. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to conduct appropriate research on multiple layers of dried paint film, containing the various lead compounds commonly used, in order to ascertain the safe level of lead in residential paint products. States that, within eight months after the day of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a full report of his findings and recommendations as developed pursuant to such programs. Directs the Secretary to take such steps as are necessary to prohibit the application of lead-based paint to any toy, furniture, cooking utensil, drinking utensil, or eating utensil manufactured and distributed after the date of enactment of this Act. Lowers, over a two-year period, the percentage of lead contained in a paint for such paint to qualify as a lead-based paint for the purposes of this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of $45,000,000 yearly for grants used for the detection and treatment of lead-based paint poisoning, $50,000,000 yearly for grants used for the elimination of lead-based paint poisoning, and $5,000,000 yearly for Federal demonstration and research programs on the elimination of lead-based paint poisoning. Establishes a National Childhood Lead Based Paint Poisoning Advisory Board to advise the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare on policy relating to the administration of this Act. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to establish procedures to minimize the hazards of lead-based paint poisoning with respect to any existing housing which is covered by an application for mortgage insurance or assistance under a program administered by the Secretary.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1973
Removes specified limitations imposed by Public Law 92-512 upon grants to states for social services and old-age assistance and medical assistance for the aged.
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1973
Constitutional Amendment - Provides that, if during the term of one Congress, an individual holding the office of Senator or Representative fails to be recorded in person on 60 percent of the total number of yea-and-nay rollcall votes of the House of which he or she is a Member, taken during such term of Congress, such office becomes vacant, and the Secretary of the Senate or the Clerk of the House of Representatives, as the case may be, shall notify the executive authority of the State from which such individual was elected of the vacancy.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1973
Provides for the preservation of historical and archeological data. Extends coverage to all Federal and federally assisted or licensed programs which alter the terrain and potentially cause loss of scientific, prehistorical, historical or archeological data. Directs Federal agencies to notify the Secretary of the Interior if in their operations archeological or other scientific data are revealed or threatened. Provides that the Secretary of the Interior, upon notification by any responsible authority that a Federal program is threatening, damaging, or destroying such data, may evaluate (after reasonable notice to the responsible agency) the situation and cause a survey or other investigation to be made to the extent necessary to protect the public interest. Directs Federal agencies whose programs are causing damage or destruction of scientific, prehistorical, historical, or archeological data to transfer to the Secretary of the Interior a small portion of the program funds to protect or recover such data prior to its loss. Provides additional Federal funding activities to recover data on archeological programs affected by any Federal activity. Authorizes necessary appropriations to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1973
Comprehensive Child Nutrition Act - Declares it to be the policy of Congress that every child in the United States be provided an adequate nutritional diet throughout the entire year, that such diet be provided under comprehensive child nutrition programs carried out by the Nation's schools, child development institutions, and other agencies and organizations concerned with the development of children, and that special emphasis under such programs be given to economically disadvantaged children. Provides that funds appropriate under this Act may be used for planning and developing, and surveying child nutrition programs. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, for each fiscal year, to be disbursed to each State, and amount equal to a sum determined by: (1) multiplying 10 cents by the number of children residing in each State, and multiplying the product thereof by 160; and (2) multiplying 50 cents by the number of children residing in each State who are members of households whose annual incomes are not above the applicable family size income level set forth in the income eligibility guidelines, and multiplying the product thereof by 160. Authorizes the Secretary to disburse such funds directly to nonprofit private schools when such disbursements are prohibited by State law. Provides that meals, snacks, and milk provided in child nutrition programs under this Act shall be served without cost to any child who is a member of a household which has an annual income not above the applicable household size income level set forth in the income eligibility guidelines established by the Secretary. Provides that each child nutrition program shall utilize commodities designated from time to time by the Secretary as being in abundance nationally or in the program area. Provides that each State educational agency shall, not later than April 1 of each fiscal year, submit to the Secretary, for approval by him as a prerequisite to receipt of Federal funds for the next fiscal year, a State plan of child nutrition operations for such next fiscal year. Provides that each child development institution or public or private nonprofit agency or organization operating a child nutrition program through funds from a State under this Act shall file an annual report with the Secretary giving a description of the manner in which it used funds provided under this Act to meet the requirements of this Act. Provides that each school food authority participating in a child nutrition program shall report to its State educational agency within ten days after the close of each school month the average daily number of children who received free and nonfree meals, snacks, and milk during the immediately preceding month, together with a detailed accounting of program disbursements, and such data shall be reported to the Secretary by each State. Provides that the National School Lunch Act and the Child Nutrition Act are repealed effective one year after the date of enactment of this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1973
Open Government Act - Directs each legislative agent, within five days after making his final initial influence legislation, to file a notice of representation with the Comptroller General. Provides that such notice of representation shall be in such form and detail as the Comptroller General shall prescribe and shall include, but not be limited to, the following information: (1) an identification of the legislative agent filing such notice; (2) an identification of each person by whom such legislative agent is retained as a legislative agent; (3) an identification of each person on whose behalf such legislative agent is to perform services as a legislative agent; (4) the financial terms and conditions on which such legislative agent is retained; (5) each specific area of legislative activity with respect to which such legislative agent is retained; and (6) an identification of each person who makes a covered communication to influence legislation, acting for such legislative agent, in each specific area of legislative activity with respect to which such legislative agent is retained. Defines the class of persons required to maintain records. Prescribes that such records shall reflect the total income received in the filing period to make covered communications to influence legislation; including the name and addresses of, and amount received from, any person from whom income is received for such purpose in the filing period; and reflecting total expenditures made in the filing period, including an itemization of any expenditure of at least $50 in value. Provides that a person shall not be required to report the name and address of any person from whom income of less than $25 in value is received in the filing period to make covered communications to influence legislation and, in the case of a voluntary membership organization, such organization shall not be required to report the name and address of any member whose payments in the filing period for making covered communications to influence legislation did not exceed 5 percent of the total expenditures of the organization for such purposes. Provides for a waiver of such requirement, in the case of an individual whose payments exceed 5 percent and do not exceed 30 percent, if the Comptroller General determines that such waiver will not impede the purposes of this Act. Stipulates that compliance with the filing requirements of this Act shall not be taken into consideration, for the purposes of the Internal Revenue Code, in determining whether a substantial part of the activities of an organization is the carrying on of propaganda to influence legislation. Directs the Comptroller General to: (1) develop and prescribe forms and standards for the notices of representation and reports filed by persons required to maintain records; (2) compile information contained in notices of representation and reports filed, with respect of each filing period; (3) report such information to the Congress after the end of each filing period; (4) make available for public inspection at reasonable times in the General Accounting Office in the District of Columbia, for a period of six years following the date of filing, all notices of representation, amendments thereto, and reports filed by persons required to maintain records; (5) have each notice of representation and each amendment thereto which is filed by any legislative agent published in the Congressional Record within three days after each such notice is received by the Comptroller General; (6) ascertain whether any person required to maintain records has failed to file a report, or has filed an incomplete or inaccurate report, and promptly notify such persom to file or amend such report in order to satisfy the requirements of this Act or regulations prescribed by the Comptroller General under this Act; and (7) prepare a special study and report upon the request of any Member of the House of Representatives or the Senate from information in the records of the Comptroller General. Provides that any person who knowingly and willfully violates specified provisions of this Act shall be fined not more than $5,000 or imprisoned for not more than 2 years or both (except for violations of filing notices of representation which shall be punished by a maximum fine of $5,000). Repeals the Federal Regulation of Lobbying Act. (Repeals 2 U.S.C. 261-170)
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1973
Specifies in the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 1973 that $610,000,000 is authorized for grants to States for vocational rehabilitation services, and $38,735,000 is authorized for grants for innovation of vocational rehabilitation services, under the Vocational Rehabilitation Act. (Amends P.L. 92-607)
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1973
Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make the apportionment for the fiscal year 1974 of the sums authorized to be apportioned for such year for expenditure on the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways, using the apportionment factors contained in table 5, House Committee Print numbered 92-29.
United States · United States Congress · 18 January 1973
War Powers Act - Declares that it is the purpose of this Act to fulfill the intent of the framers of the Constitution of the United States and insure that the collective judgment of both the Congress and the President will apply to the introduction of the Armed Forces of the United States in hostilities, or in situations where imminent involvement in hostilities is clearly indicated by the circumstances, and to the continued use of such forces in hostilities. States that the Act is not intended to encroach upon the recognized powers of the President, as Commander in Chief, to conduct hostilities authorized by the Congress, to respond to attacks or the imminent threat of attacks upon the United States, including its territories and possessions, to respond to attacks or the imminent threat of attacks against the Armed Forces of the United States, and under proper circumstances, to rescue endangered citizens of the United States located in foreign countries. Provides that in the absence of a declaration of war by the Congress, the Armed Forces of the United States may be introduced in hostilities, or in situations where imminent involvement in hostilities is clearly indicated by the circumstances, only: (a) to repel an armed attack upon the United States, its territories and possessions; to take necessary and appropriate retaliatory actions in the event of such an attack; and to forestall the direct and imminent threat of such an attack; (b) to repel an armed attack against the Armed Forces of the United States located outside of the United States, its territories and possessions, and to forestall the direct and imminent threat of such an attack; (c) to protect while evacuating citizens of the United States, as rapidly as possible, from any country in which such citizens are present with the express or tacit consent of the government of such country, and who are being subject to a direct and imminent threat to their lives, either sponsored by such government or beyond the power of such government to control; or (d) pursuant to specific statutory authorization, but authority to introduce the Armed Forces of the United States into hostilities shall not be inferred from any provision of law, including any provision contained in any appropriation act, unless such provisions specifically authorized the introduction of such Armed Forces in hostilities and exempts the introduction of such armed forces from compliance with the provisions of this Act. Stipulates that no treaty in force at the time of the enactment of this Act shall be construed as specific statutory authority for, or a specific exemption permitting, the introduction of the Armed Forces in any such situation. Provides that the use of the Armed Forces of the United States in hosilities pursuant to this Act shall be reported promptly in writing by the President to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate, together with a full account of the circumstances under which such hostilities were initiated, the estimated scope of such hositlities, and the consistency of such hostilities with the applicable provisions of this Act. States that hostilities commenced pursuant to this Act shall not be sustained beyond thirty days from the date of their initiation except as provided in specific legislation enacted for that purpose by the Congress. Provides that hostilities commenced pursuant to this Act may be terminated prior to the thirty day period by statute or joint resolution of Congress. Directs that any bill or resolution, authorizing continuance or termination of military hostilities shall, if sponsored or co-sponsored by one third of the Members of the House of Congress in which it originates, be considered reported to the floor of such House no later than one day following its introduction, unless the Members otherwise determine by yeas and nays; and any such bill or resolution referred to a committee after having passed one House of Congress shall be considered reported from such committee within one day after it is referred to such committee, unless the Members of the House referring it to committee shall otherwise determine by yeas and nays. Provides that any bill or resolution reported shall immediately become the pending business of the House to which it is reported, and shall be voted upon within three days after such report, unless such House shall otherwise determine by yeas and nays. Declares that this Act will take affect upon enactment.
United States · United States Congress · 18 January 1973
Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) the level of supplies of home heating oil has not been adequate to meet the needs of homes across the Nation, and (2) the major cause of the inadequate supply of such oil is the limitation on imports of petroleum and petroleum products. Provides that, beginning on the date of enactment of this resolution, the limitation shall not apply to the importation of crude oil or number 2 fuel oil (home heating oil) until the ninety-first day after the date of enactment of this resolution (in the case of crude oil) or April 1, 1974 (in the case of number 2 fuel oil).
United States · United States Congress · 18 January 1973
Requires all meetings of all Standing, Joint, Special and Select Committees and their subcommittees of the Senate to be open to the public, except when the subject matter of the meeting involves the national security, and then only when a motion to meet in executive session shall be adopted by majority vote of the members of such committee who are present at the meeting; and except meetings of any committee or subcommittee in which testimony or evidence presented or considered may tend to defame, degrade or incriminate any person, in which case such testimony or evidence shall be received and considered in executive session, and then only when a motion to meet in executive session shall be adopted by majority vote of the members of such committee who are present at the meeting.
United States · United States Congress · 16 January 1973
Requires each Member of Congress and each employee of the Congress to file, not later than May 15 of each year or not more than three months after the last day he occupies such office or position (if he leaves such position before May 15), with the Comptroller General, a report containing a full and complete statement of: (1) the amount and source of each item of income, each item of reimbursement for any expenditure, and each gift or aggregate of gifts from one source (other than gifts received from his spouse or any member of his immediate family) received by him or by him and his spouse jointly during the preceding calendar year which exceeds $100 in amount or value; (2) the value of each asset held by him, or by him and his spouse jointly, which has a value in excess of $5,000, and the amount of each liability owed by him, or by him and his spouse jointly, which is in excess of $5,000 as of the close of the preceding calendar year; and (3) any business transaction by him, or by him and his spouse jointly, or by any person acting in his behalf, during the preceding calendar year if the aggregate amount involved in such transaction exceeds $5,000 during such year. Provides that the reports required by this section shall be in such form and detail as the Comptroller General may prescribe. Establishes a penalty of $2,000, or imprisonment for not more than five years, or both for whoever willfully fails to file a report or knowingly files a false report under this Act. (Adds 18 U.S.C. 225)
United States · United States Congress · 16 January 1973
Uniformed Services Special Pay Act - Provides that an officer of the Army or Navy in the Medical or Dental Corp, an officer of the Air Force who is designated as a medical or dental officer, or a medical or dental officer of the Public Health Service, who is on active duty for a period of more than thrity days is entitled, in addition to any other pay or allowances, to special pay at the following rates: (1) $100 a month for each month of active duty if he has not completed two years of active duty in a category named above; or (2) $350 a month for each month of active duty if he has completed two years of active duty. Authorizes special sea duty pay at rates specified in this Act. Provides that a member of a uniformed service who: (1) has completed at least twenty-one months of active duty (other than for training); (2) is designated as having a critical military skill; and (3) reenlists or voluntarily extends his enlistment in a regular component of the service concerned for a period of at least three years; may be paid a sum of money, not to exceed six months of the basic pay to which he was entitled at the time of his discharge or release, multiplied by the number of years or the montly fractions thereof, of additional obligated service, not to exceed six years, or $15,000, whichever is the lesser amount. States that a person who enlists in an armed force for a period of at least three years or who extends his initial period of active duty in that armed force to a total of at least three years. may under regulations to be prescribed by the Secretary of Defense, or the Secretary of Transportation with respect to the Coast Guard, be paid an amount prescribed by the Secretary concerned but not more than $3,000. Provides for special pay for officers of the armed forces in health professions who execute active duty agreements. States that upon acceptance of such agreement by the Secretary of Defense, or the Secretary of HEW with respect to the Public Health Service, such officer is entitled to an amount not to exceed $15,000 for each year of the active duty agreements. Provides that such officer must be qualified in a critical health profession and qualified, as determined by a board composed of officers in his profession, to enter into such an agreement. Requires the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of HEW to submit a written report each year to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives regarding the operation of this program. Provides that an officer of an armed force who is designated by the Secretary as an officer possessing skills in a critical shortage specialty and whose retention on, or voluntary recall to, active duty would be of benefit to the United States; and who executes an agreement to serve on continuous active duty in that specialty for a period of not less than one year, but not more than six years, in addition to any other period of active duty for which he is obligated, may be paid, in addition to all other compensation, a sum of money not to exceed $4,000 for each year of such agreement. Provides for special pay for judge advocates and law specialists at rates specified in this Act. Provides special pay for participation in the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve of an armed force. States that the amount of special pay for those persons possessing critical military skills as determined by the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of Transportation with respect to the Coast Guard shall be: (1) up to $2,200 for a six year enlistment, reenlistment or extension of the enlistment period; or (2) for a lesser period 10 percent of the total for one year, 22 percent of the total for two years, 37 percent of the total for four years, 75 percent of the total for five years. States that amount of such pay for persons not possessing such critical skills shall be: (1) up to $1,100 for a six year enlistment, reenlistment or extension of enlistment period; or (2) an amount as determined by the above formula for a lesser enlistment, reenlistment or extension of enlistment period.
United States · United States Congress · 16 January 1973
Provides that there be printed for the use of the Committee on Post Office and Civil Service one thousand seven hundred additional copies of its committee print of the current Congress entitled "United States Government Policy and Supporting Positions."
United States · United States Congress · 11 January 1973
New England States Fuel Oil Act - Authorizes the importation of No. 2 home heating oil, without regard to the existing quota system on petroleum products, for the purpose of residential heating in the New England States and authorizes the creation of a Northeast Oil Area. Removes the restrictions on the import of No. 2 home heating oil into the New England States. Directs the Secretary of State to undertake negotiations with the Government of Canada to eliminate all trade restrictions in petroleum and petroleum products between the United States and Canada and for the establishing of a "Northeastern Regional Oil Area" consisting of Eastern Canada and the New England States. Directs the Secretary to report to Congress within one year, and each year thereafter until the negotiations are successful.
United States · United States Congress · 11 January 1973
Requires the chairman of a committee reporting a measure to the Senate, in nominating Senate conferees to serve on a committee of conference considering such measure, to make certain insofar as practicable that at least a majority of the conferees he nominates shall have indicated their support of such measure as passed by the Senate and their support for the prevailing opinion of the Senate on each of the principal matters of disagreement with the House of Representatives on such measure. Provides that a Senator need not be a member of the committee of the chairman nominating such conferees in order to serve as a conferee considering such measure.
United States · United States Congress · 9 January 1973
Veterans Drug and Alcohol Treatment and Rehabilitative Act - Defines "disability" for purposes of hospital, domicilary and medical care for veterans under title 38 of the United States Code so as to include alcoholism and drug dependence. Defines "veteran" for purposes of hospital care and medical services for a service-connected disability as a person with an other than dishonorable discharge. Defines the term "rehabilitative services" so as to include such services as professional counseling, educational and vocational guidance, education, training and job referral and placement and such other intensive, skilled services applied on an in-patient or out-patient basis, over a protracted period as may be necessary to assist the individual disabled veteran to return, as soon and as completely rehabilitated as practicable, to his or her family and community as a productive, self-respecting, and self-sustaining member of society. Extends the presumption of service-connected active psychoses to three years. Provides for readjustment medical counseling and approrpiate followup care to a veteran of the Vietnam era who requests such care. Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to carry out specified medical programs providing inpatient treatment, including treatment of the symptoms of detoxification, and outpatient treatment and rehabilitative services on a nationwide basis to the eligible veterans and persons suffering from the disability of alcoholism or alocholic abuse. Authorizes the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs to furnish special medical treatment and rehabilitation services for drug dependence and drug abuse disabilities for any veteran. Describes such services to be provided. Provides that, when Federal facilities are not available, the Administrator is required to contract with community facilities with special priority, wherever feasible, for community-based multiple modality treatment programs which employ peer groups veterans and stress outreach efforts to identify and counsel veterans eligible for treatment and rehabilitation under the Act. Provides that a veteran applying for treatment and rehabilitative services, with an other than honorable or general discharge, shall be advised of his right to a review of the nature of his discharge and informed of programs that he would be entitled to with a general or honorable discharge. Provides for the payment for treatment and rehabilitative services for a Vietnam era veteran in a non-Veterans' Administration facility where V.A. facilities are not readily accessible. Authorizes treatment and rehabilitative services for a veteran charged with or convicted of a criminal offense, and not confined. Authorizes the furnishing of drugs and medicines to any veteran incarcerated who had been in a program previously if the attendant physician orders them. Directs the Administrator to utilize all V.A. resources including the use of peer group veterans, in seeking out and counseling veterans, especially Vietnam era veterans. Provides for the employment of former addict veterans to assist in the program wherever feasible. Authorizes the Administrator to carry out an affirmative action program, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor and the Chairman of the Civil Service Commission, to urge all Federal agencies, private and public firms, organization, agencies, and persons to provide appropriate employment opportunities for veterans who have received treatment and who have been determined by competent medical authority to be sufficiently rehabilitated to be employable. Provides for a special rehabilitation program of education and training for veterans with alcohol and drug dependence conditions acquired or aggravated while in the service. Provides that the Comptroller General of the United States, or any of his duly authorized representatives, shall have access for the purpose of audit and examination to any books, accounts, records, reports, files, and all other things or property of non-Veterans' Administration facilities that are pertinent to payments received pursuant to contracts entered into under this Act. Provides that an active serviceman determined to have drug dependence disability may upon written request be transferred to a V.A. facility within the last 90 days of his tour of duty and be provided services under this Act as if he were a veteran. Requires all records and information divulged in connection with treatment and rehabilitative services under this Act to be kept confidential. Allows disclosure where there is a voluntary waiver, where the individual is a clear and present danger to himself or others, where the individual is deceased and information is necessary for benefits, and where a court order is obtained. Provides for an annual report to the Congress by the Administrator on the implementation of the programs under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 9 January 1973
Government in the Sunshine Act - Title I: Congressional Procedures - Requires each meeting of each standing, select, or special committee or subcommittee of the Senate and House of Representatives, including meetings to conduct hearings, shall be open to the public. Provides that a portion or portions of such meetings may be closed to the public if the committee or subcommittee determines by vote of a majority of the members present that the matters to be discussed or the testimony to be taken: (1) will disclose matters necessary to be kept secret in the interests of national security or the confidential conduct of the foreign relations of the United States; (2) will relate solely to matters of committee staff personnel or internal staff management or procedure; (3) will tend to charge with crime or misconduct, or to disgrace, injure the professional standing or otherwise expose to public contempt or obloquy any individual, or will represent a clearly unwarranted invasion of the privacy of any individual (unless it relates to any government officer or employee with respect to his official duties or employment); (4) will disclose the identity of any informer or law enforcement agent or of any information relating to the investigation or prosecution of a criminal offense that is required to be kept secret in the interests of effective law enforcement; or (5) will disclose information relating to the trade secrets of financial or commercial information pertaining specifically to a given person. Directs each standing, select, or special committee or subcommittee of the Senate and House of Representatives to make a public announcement of the date, place, and subject matter of each meeting (whether open or closed to the public) at least one week before such meeting unless the committee or subcommittee determines by a vote of the majority of its members that committee business requires that such meeting be called at an earlier date, in which case the committee shall make public announcement of the date, place and subject matter of such meeting at the earliest practicable opportunity. Provides that a complete transcript, including a list of all persons attending and their affiliation, shall be made of each meeting of each standing, select, or special committee or subcommittee. Provides that a copy of each such transcript shall be made available for public inspection within seven days of each such meeting, and additional copies of any transcript shall be furnished to any person at the actual cost of duplication. Provides that all the aforegoing requirements and exceptions applicable to the meetings of the committees and subcommittees of the House and Senate shall also be applicable to each meeting of a committee of conference. Establishes procedures to review and reverse any committee and subcommittee vote to close a meeting to the public or to delete from the publicly available copy a portion of a meeting transcript. Title II: Agency Procedure - Requires all meetings of any Federal agency to be open to the public unless a majority of the entire membership of an agency determines the meeting: (1) will probably disclose matters necessary to be kept secret in the interests of national security or the confidential conduct of the foreign relations of the United States; (2) will relate solely to individual agency personnel or to internal agency office management and procedures or financial auditing; (3) will tend to charge with crime or misconduct, or to disgrace, injure the professional standing or otherwise expose to public contempt of obloquy any individual, or will represent a clearly unwarranted invasion of the privacy of any individual (unless it relates to any government officer or employee with respect to his official duties or employment); (4) will probably disclose the identity of any informer or law enforcement agent or of any information relating to the investigation or prosecution of a criminal offense that is required to be kept secret in the interests of effective law enforcement; or (5) will disclose information relating to the trade secrets or financial or commercial information pertaining specifically to a given person. Directs each agency to make public announcement of the date, place, and subject matter of each meeting at which official action is considered or discussed (whether open or closed to the public) at least one week before each meeting unless the agency determines by a vote of the majority of its members that agency business requires that such meetings be called at an earlier date, in which case the agency shall make public announcement of the date, place, and subject matter of such meeting at the earliest practicable opportunity. Provides that a complete transcript, including a list of all persons attending and their affiliations, shall be made of each meeting of each agency at which official action is considered or discussed (whether open or closed to the public). Provides that a copy of each such meeting shall be made available to the public for inspection, and additional copies of any transcript shall be furnished to any person at the actual cost of duplication. Requires each agency to promulgate regulations to implement the requirements of this title. States that any citizen or person resident in the United States may bring a proceeding in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit: (1) to require an agency to promulgate such regulations if such agency has not promulgated such regulations within the time period specified herein; or (2) to set aside agency regulations issued pursuant to this Act that are not in accord with the requirements of this title and to require the promulgation of regulations that are in accord with such requirements. Gives the district courts of the United States jurisdiction to enforce the requirements of this title by declaratory judgment, injunctive relief, or otherwise. Provides that such actions may be brought by any citizen or person resident in the United States. Provides that such actions shall be brought in the district wherein the plaintiff resides, or has his principal place of business, or where the agency in question has its headquarters.
United States · United States Congress · 4 January 1973
Education for all Handicapped Children Act - States that it is the purpose of this Act to insure that all handicapped children receive maximum special educational services not later than 1976, to insure that State and local education agencies fulfill their primary responsibilities in providing such services, and to provide financial assistance to the State and local educational agencies to enable them to provide such services. Sets forth definitions of terms used in this Act. Authorizes the Commissioner of Education to make grants pursuant to this Act for the purpose of assisting the States in improving and expanding educational services for the education of handicapped children at the preschool, elementary, and secondary school levels. Authorizes to be appropriated for fiscal years 1973 through 1977 such sums as may be necessary for carrying out the purposes of this Act. Sets forth a formula by which the sums appropriated pursuant to this Act shall be allotted. Provides that the Commissioner shall prescribe basic criteria to be applied by State agencies in approving applications for assistance under the State plan submitted under this Act. Provides that States desiring to participate in the program under this Act shall demonstrate to the Commissioner of Education that specific conditions have been met. Sets forth provisions which each State plan shall include. Provides that each participating State shall appoint an advisory panel which shall be broadly representative of individuals involved in the education of handicapped children. Sets forth the functions of such panel. Provides that the Commissioner shall report to the Congress annually regarding progress toward goals of this Act. Provides that the Federal share of programs pursuant to this Act shall be 75 percent. States that a maximum of 1 percent of the total of the grants paid under this Act for one year to a State agency may be paid to such agency by the Commissioner for the administration of this Act. Authorizes appropriations for this purpose.
United States · United States Congress · 4 January 1973
Retirement Income Security for Employees Act - Title I: Organization - Establishes within the Department of Labor an Office of Pension and Welfare Plan Administration headed by an Assistant Secretary of Labor appointed by the President with Senate advice and consent. Provides that the functions, records and personnel of the Office of Labor Management Services Administration necessary for the administration of the Welfare and Pension Plans Disclosure Act are transferred to the Office of Pension and Welfare Plan Administration. Requires that, unless exempt, the provisions of the Act apply to any pension or profit-sharing-retirement plan established or maintained by an employer, a union, or both together in any industry or activity affecting interstate commerce. Requires administrators of pension and profit-sharing-retirement plans to file applications with the Secretary of Labor for registration of such plans. Title II: Vesting and Funding Requirements - Requires that no pension or profit-sharing-retirement plan may require, as a condition of eligibility to participate in the plan, a period of service longer than one year or an age greater than 25, whichever occurs later, except that any plan which provides 100 percent immediate vesting upon entry into the plan may restrict participation to those who have attained age 30, or three years of service, whichever occurs later. Authorizes the Secretary to defer, in whole or in part, applicability of the vesting provisions for a period not to exceed five years from the effective date of such requirements where a plan makes a showing that the vesting requirements would increase the employer's costs or contributions to the plan to an extent that substantial economic injury would result to the employer and to the interests of the participants. Requires the Secretary to promulgate regulations governing funding of multi-employer plans that cover a substantial portion of the industry or employees in a specific geographic area to assure that such plans are provided with sufficient assets to cover benefits under the plan. Title III: Voluntary Portability Program for Vested Pensions - Establishes a voluntary program known as the Voluntary Portability Program for portability of vested pension credits. Requires that, plans which are members of this program are required to pay, to a central portability fund administered by the Secretary, monies representing the value of the participant's vested rights when he is separated from the plan prior to retirement. Establishes a Voluntary Portability Program Fund under the supervision of the Secretary into which payments will be made in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Secretary under the portability program. Title IV: Plan Termination Insurance Program Established - Establishes a Private Pension Plan Termination Insurance Program administered by the Secretary, which requires plans to insure unfunded vested liabilities incurred prior to enactment of the Act, as well as after enactment of the Act. Requires the insurance program to insure participants against loss of vested benefits arising from plan termination. States that the Secretary shall make arrangements with employers on equitable terms for the reimbursement of insurance paid. Title V: Disclosure and Fiduciary Standards - Requires that annual reports filed are required to be accompanied by a certificate designating the Secretary as agent for service of process in any action arising under this Act. Restructures the Advisory Council on Employee Welfare and Pension Benefit Plans so that it will serve as an advisory council for both the WPPDA and the Retirement Income Security for Employees Act. Title VI: Enforcement - Empowers the Secretary to petition the Federal courts to compel a pension or profit-sharing-retirement plan to comply with the Act or effect recoveries of moneys which may be due under the Act. Sets forth criminal penalties for interference with the rights of a pensioner or his beneficiary. Title VII: Effective Dates - Sets forth the effective dates for the provisions in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 4 January 1973
Veterans Health Care Expansion Act - Title I: Hospital, Domicilliary, and Medical Care Benefits - Extends the definition of "private facilities" for which the Administrator of Veterans' Affairs contracts in order to provide hospital care to include facilities for the wife or child of a veteran who has a total disability, permanent in nature, resulting from a service connected disability, and the widow or child of a veteran who died from such a disability. Includes in the term "hospital care" mental health services, consultation, professional counseling, and training of a veteran or dependent, or survivor if the veteran has no dependents, as may be necessary or appropriate to the effective treatment and rehabilitation of such individual. Adds home health services which the Administrator deems appropriate for the effective and economical treatment of a disability of a veteran, or dependent, or survivor, to the definition of the term "medical services." Extends to all veterans hospital or nursing home care if such veteran is unable to defray the expenses of the necessary care. Allows the Administrator to furnish hospital or nursing home care to the wife or child of a veteran who has a total disability, permanent in nature from a service connected disability, and the widow or child of a veteran who died from such a disability. Permits the Administrator to furnish medical services for any disability on an outpatient or ambulatory basis to persons already described in this act and to any veteran who has a service connected disability rated at eighty percent or more. Authorizes the Administrator, under such regulations as he might prescribe, to reimburse veterans entitled to hospital care as medical services for the reasonable value of such care or services for which such veterans have made payment from sources other than the Veterans' Administration. (Adds 38 U.S.C. 628) Authorizes the President to assist the Republic of the Philippines in providing medical care and treatment for Commonwealth Army veterans and new Philippine Scouts under certain conditions. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 631) Provides that the President may authorize the Administrator to enter into a contract with the Veterans Memorial Hospital, with the approval of the appropriate department of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines under which the United States: (1) will pay for hospital care in the Republic of the Philippines, or for medical services which shall be provided either in Veterans' Administration facilities, or by contract, or otherwise, by the Administrator in accordance with the conditions and limitations applicable generally to beneficiaries under this title, for Commonwealth Army veterans determined by the Administrator to be in need of such hospital care or medical services for service-connected disabilities; (2) will pay for hospital care at the Veterans Memorial Hospital for Commonwealth Army veterans determined by the Administrator to need such care for non-service-connected disabilities if they are unable to defray the expenses of necessary hospital care; and (3) will pay for hospital care, determined by the Administrator to be necessary, at the Veterans Memorial Hospital for new Philippine Scouts for service-connected disabilities and for non-service-connected disabilities, if they enlisted before July 4, 1946, and if they are unable to defray the expenses of necessary hospital care. Provides that the total of the payments authorized shall not exceed $2,000,000 for any one fiscal year ending before 1978. Authorizes to be appropriated for each fiscal year ending with fiscal year 1978, $100,000 to be used for the education and training of health service personnel at the hospital, and for the upgrading of equipment and in rehabilitating the physical plant and facilities of such hospital. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 632) Authorizes the Administrator to carry out a comprehensive program providing sickle cell anemia screening, counseling, and treatment and to carry out research and research training in the diagnosis, treatment, and control of sickle cell anemia based upon such screening examinations and treatment. Requires the Administrator to include such information in his annual report to Congress. (Adds 38 U.S.C. 651-654) Title II: Amendments to Chapter 73 of Title 38, United States Code Relating to the Department of Medicine and Surgery - Authorizes the Administrator to carry out a major program of recruitment training, and employment of veterans with various medical military occupation specialties in order to provide a complete medical and hospital service for the medical care and treatment of veterans and to assist in providing an adequate supply of health manpower to the nation. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 4101(b)) Establishes pay schedules for Assistant Chief Medical Directors, physicians and dentists, and nurses. Provides criteria on which nurses are to receive additional compensation. Enumerates restrictions on physicians, dentists, and nurses, including requirements that no such person may: (1) assume responsibility for the medical care of any patient other than a patient admitted for treatment at a Veterans' Administration facility, except in those cases where the individual, upon request and with the approval of the Chief Medical Director, assumes such responsibilities to assist communities or medical practice groups to meet medical needs which would not otherwise be available for a period not to exceed one hundred and eighty calendar days, which may be extended by the Chief Medical Director for additional periods not to exceed one hundred and eighty calendar days each; (2) teach or provide consultative services at any affiliated institution if such teaching or consultation will, because of its nature or duration, conflict with his responsibilities under this title; and (3) perform, in the course of carrying out his responsibilities under this title, professional services for the purpose of generating money for any fund or account which is maintained by an affiliated institution for the benefit of such institution, or for his personal benefit, or both. Provides that temporary full-time appointments of personnel, other than physicians, dentists, and nurses, shall not exceed one year. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 4114(a)(3)(A)) Provides that the Administrator may contract with one or more hospitals, medical schools, or medical installations having hospital facilities and participating with the Veterans' Administration in the training of interns or residents to provide for the central administration of stipend payments, provision of fringe benefits, and maintenance of records for such interns and residents by the designation of one such institution to serve as a central administrative agency for this purpose. Permits the Administrator to pay to such designated agency, without regard to any other law or regulation governing the expenditure of Government moneys either in advance or in arrears, all amount to cover the costs for the period such intern or resident serves in a Veterans' Administration hospital. (Adds 38 U.S.C. 4114(b)(2)) Title III: Amendments to Chapter 81 of Title 38, United States Code - Acquisition and Operation of Hospital and Domicilliary Facilities; Procurement and Supply - Requires the Administrator to provide for no less than an average of 98,500 operating beds in Veterans' Administration Hospitals and to maintain an average daily patient census in such beds of no less than 85,500 in any fiscal year. Authorizes the Administrator to establish and operate not less than eight thousand beds for the furnishing of nursing home care to eligible veterans over which the Administrator has direct and exclusive jurisdiction. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 5001(a)) Requires the Administrator to appoint an Advisory Committee on Structural Safety of Veterans' Administration Facilities to advise him on all matters of structural safety in the construction and remodeling of Veterans' Administration facilities. (Amends 38 U.S.C. 5001(b)) Title IV: Miscellaneous Amendments to Title 38 United States Code - Specifies certain miscellaneous amendments to title 38 of the United States Code. Title V: Effective Dates - Specifies the dates on which the provisions of this act shall become effective.
United States · United States Congress · 4 January 1973
Rehabilitation Act - Declares that it is the purpose of this Act to provide a statutory basis for the establishment of a Rehabilitation Services Administration and to establish an Office for the Handicapped and to authorize specified programs. Establishes within the Department of Health, Education and Welfare a Rehabilitation Services Administration which shall be administered by a Commissioner. Provides that the Commissioner shall carry out and administer all programs and direct the performance of all services for which authority is provided to the Secretary of HEW under titles I through IV of this Act. Creates within such Administration a Division of Research,Training, and Evaluation which shall be responsible for carrying out programs and projects under title IV of this Act. Authorizes the inclusion of appropriations under this Act in the appropriation Act for the fiscal year preceding the fiscal year for which they are available for obligation. Provides that where funds are provided for a single project by more than one Federal agency to an agency or organization assisted under this Act, the Federal agency principally involved may be designated to act for all in administering such funds, pursuant to regulations prescribed by th President. Sets forth definitions of terms used in this Act. Title I: Vocational Rehabilitation Services - Part A: General Provisions - Authorizes to be appropriated in order to make grants to States under part B of this title $800,000,000 for fiscal year 1973; and $975,000,000 for fiscal year 1974. Authorizes to be appropriated for the purpose of making grants to States and public and nonprofit agencies to assist them in meeting the costs of projects to initiate or expand services to handicapped individuals $50,000,000 for fiscal year 1973; $60,000,000 for fiscal year 1974; and $75,000,000 for fiscal year 1975. Sets forth conditions which shall be included in a State plan for vocational and comprehensive rehabilitation services submitted to the Commissioner for approval under this title. Provides for judicial review of an adverse decision of the Commissioner with respect to a State plan submitted for approval under this title. Part B: Basic Vocational and Comprehensive Rehabiliation Services - Provides for the allocation of the funds appropriated under Part A for Part B to the several States. States that the allocation to any State shall not be less than 1/4 of 1 percent of the amount appropriated, or $2,000,000, whichever is greater. Provides that for each fiscal year the Commissioner shall pay to each State an amount equal to the Federal share of the cost of vocational rehabilitation services under an approved State plan. States that this payment shall not exceed such State's allocation unde this part. Requires the Commissioner to set aside funds in an amount between $1,000,000 and $2,500,000 for fiscal year 1973, and up to $5,000,000 annually for fiscal years 1974-1975, to establish a system of client assistance pilot projects to advise clients of benefits available under this Act. Part C: Innovation and Expansion Grants - Entitles States to grants for special programs to expand vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with the most severe handicaps, particularly those who are poor and responsibility for whose treatment is shared by the State. Sets forth provisions for allotments among the States. Title II: Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services - Authorizes grants to assist the several States in developing and implementing continuing plans for meeting the current and future needs of handicapped individuals for whom a vocational goal is not possible or feasible, including the assessment of disability and rehabilitation potential, and for the training of specialized personnel needed for the provision of services to such individuals and research related thereto. Authorizes to be appropriated $30,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1973, $50,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1974, and $80,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1975, for such purposes. Sets forth provisions for allotments to the States, with a minimum assurance of $150,000 per State. Title III: Special Federal Responsibilities - Authorizes to be appropriated for the purpose of making grants and contracts for the construction of rehabilitation facilities, initial staffing, and planning assistance $35,000,000 for fiscal year 1973; $40,000,000 for fiscal year 1974; and $45,000,000 for fiscal year 1975. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to assist in meeting the costs of construction of public or private nonprofit rehabilitation facilities. Provides that an application for a grant under this title must conform to the general grant and contract requirements of this title. Authorizes to be appropriated for the purpose of making vocational training grants $30,000,000 for fiscal year 1973; $35,000,000 for fiscal year 1974; and $40,000,000 for fiscal year 1975. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to States and public and nonprofit private organizations and agencies to pay 90 percent of the cost of projects for providing vocational training services to handicapped individuals in public and nonprofit rehabilitation facilities. Requires the Commissioner to make the following determinations prior to making such grants: (1) that the purpose of the project is to prepare handicapped, especially severely handicapped, individuals for gainful and suitable employment; (2) that the individuals to receive training services under such project will include only those individuals who are determined to be suitable for and in need of such training services by the States agency or agencies of the State in which the rehabilitation facility is located; (3) that the full range of training services will be made available to such individual; and (4) that the project meets such other requirements as he may prescribe in regulations for providing such services. Authorizes the Commissioner, in consultation with the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, to insure up to 100 percent of any mortgage which covers construction of a public or nonprofit rehabilitation facility, including equipment to be used in its operation. Sets forth conditions for the insurance of such mortgages. Creates a Rehabilitation Facilities Insurance Fund to be used as a revolving fund to carry out this title. States that the total amount of outstanding mortgages insured shall not exceed $250,000,000. Provides that the Commissioner may make annual interest grants to State and public and nonprofit agencies to reduce the cost of borrowing from other sources for the construction of rehabilitation facilities. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Commissioner such sums as may be necessary for the payment of annual interest grants. Authorizes to be appropriated $50,000,000 for fiscal year 1973; $125,000,000 for fiscal year 1974; and $150,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, for the purpose of making grants for special projects and demonstrations. States that such grants may pay 90 percent of the cost of the provision of vocational and comprehensive rehabilitation services to handicapped individuals who are migratory agricultural workers or seasonal farmworkers, and to members of their families. Establishes the National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults which shall: (1) demonstrate methods of: (a) providing the specialized intensive services, and other services, needed to rehabilitate handicapped individuals who are both deaf and blind; and (b) training the professional and allied personnel needed adequately to staff facilities specially designed to provide such services and training to such personnel who have been or will be working with deaf-blind individuals; (2) conduct research in the problems of, and ways of meeting the problems of, rehabilitating deaf-blind individuals; and (3) aid in the conduct of related activities which will expand or improve the services for or help improve public understanding of the problems of deaf-blind individuals. Authorizes to be appropraited for the purpose of establishing and operating such center $5,000,000 for construction which shall remain available until expended, and $800,000 for operations for fiscal year 1973; $1,200,000 for fiscal year 1974; and $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1975. Provides for the establishment of Rehabilitation Centers for Deaf Individuals, and National Centers for Spinal Cord Injuries. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants for special services for the rehabilitation of individuals suffering from end-stage renal disease and to provide rehabilitation services for older blind individuals. Authorizes appropriations to carry out such programs. Establishes in the Department of Health, Education and Welfare a National Advisory Council on Rehabilitation of the Handicapped consisting of twenty members appointed by th Commissioner. Provides that the council shall: (1) provide policy advice and consultation on the planning, conduct, and review of programs authorized under this Act; (2) review the administration and operation of vocational rehabilitation programs under this Act, make recommendations with respect thereto, and make annual reports to the Secretary and the Commissioner for transmittal to the Congress; (3) advise the Secretary and the Commissioner with respect to the conduct of independent evaluations of programs carried out under this Act; and (4) provide such other advisory services as the Secretary and Commissioner may request. Provides that any State which receives assistance under this Act shall establish and maintain a State Advisory Council which shall be appointed by the Governor, or in specified cases by the State board which governs vocational rehabilitation. Sets forth the functions of such council. Title IV: Research and Training - Provides that the Commissioner may make grants to, and contracts with, State public and nonprofit organizations to pay part of the cost of research projects which bear directly on the provision of services under this Act. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to pay all or part of the cost of specialized activities including the establishment and support of Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers and Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers. Authorizes the Secretary to pay part of the cost of projects for training, traineeships, and related activities designed to assist in increasing the numbers of personnel trained in providing vocational and comprehensive rehabilitation services. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the purpose of this title. Title V: Administration and Program and Project Evaluation - Sets forth the functions of the Commissioner in carrying out his duties under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct studies, investigations and evaluations of programs authorized by this Act. Provides that the Secretary shall measure and evaluate the impact of all programs authorized by this Act in order to determine their effectiveness in achieving states goals. Requires the Secretary to submit an annual report on such determination and review to the appropriate committees of the Congress. Authorizes appropriations to conduct such program and project evaluations. Requires the Secretary to submit an annual report to the President and to the Congress on the activities carried out under this Act. Title VI: Office for the Handicapped - Establishes an Office for the Handicapped within the Office of the Secretary in the Department of Health, Education and Welfare. Provides that the Office shall be headed by a Director, who shall serve as a Special Assistant to the Secretary. Sets forth the function of the Office. Authorizes to be appropriated for the purposes of this title $1,000,000 for fiscal year 1973, $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, and $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1975. Title VII: Miscellaneous - Provides for the repeal of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act. Establishes an Interagency Committee on Handicapped Employees to insure the adequacy of hiring, placement, and advancement practices with respect to handicapped individuals within the Federal Government. Establishes a National Commission on Transportation and Housing for Handicapped Individuals to consider problems in the areas that impede the rehabilitation of handicapped individuals. Establishes the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board. Sets forth the function of such Board. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the duties and functions of such Board. Requires any contract entered into by any Federal department or agency for the procurement of personal property and nonpersonal services (including construction) for the United States to contain a provison requiring that, in employing persons to carry out such contract, the party contracting with the United States shall take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified handicapped individuals. States that no otherwise qualified handicapped individual in the United States shall, solely by reason of his handicap, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.
![Official portrait of Sen. Stafford, Robert T. [R-VT]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/s000776_200.jpg)