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Official portrait of Sen. Weicker, Lowell P., Jr. [R-CT]

Sen. Weicker, Lowell P., Jr. [R-CT]

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1,412 records where Sen. Weicker, Lowell P., Jr. [R-CT] is listed as a sponsor, author, or other actor. Search with topics and years

Law· SS. 2846 (100th)enacted

A bill to provide for the awarding of grants for the purchase of drugs used in the treatment of AIDS.

United States · United States Congress · 29 September 1988

Amends title III (General Powers and Duties of Public Health Service) of the Public Health Service Act to add provisions authorizing the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make grants to States to assist in the provision of drugs determined to prolong the lives of individuals with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and related conditions. Authorizes appropriations. Prohibits grants from being made after March 31, 1989. Declares that the provisions added by this Act shall cease to exist on March 31, 1989.

Bill· SS. 2827 (100th)open

A bill to amend the United States Institute of Peace Act to provide an authorization of appropriations for the Institute without regard to fiscal year limitations, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1988

Amends the United States Institute of Peace Act to provide a permanent authorization of appropriations for the United States Institute of Peace. Repeals a provision prohibiting the use of Federal funds to pay for private fringe benefit programs.

Bill· SS. 2821 (100th)open

Handicapped Programs Technical Amendments Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1988

Handicapped Programs Technical Amendments Act of 1988 - Title I: Amendments to the Education of the Handicapped Act - Amends the Education of the Handicapped Act (EHA) to make technical and conforming amendments, including making terminology gender neutral, updating cross-references, and revising language referring to people with handicaps or disabilities. Removes references to the National Advisory Committee on the Education of the Handicapped (whose statutory authority has already been repealed under other Federal law). Specifies that the term "institution of higher education" includes community colleges receiving funding from the Secretary of the Interior under the Tribally Controlled Community College Assistance Act of 1978. Revises provisions for preschool grants for special education and related services for handicapped children aged three through five to provide that appropriations for such grants program for FY 1987 and 1988 received by a State whose allotment for the succeeding fiscal year is adjusted downwards shall remain available for obligation by such State, and by its local educational agencies and intermediate educational units, during the two fiscal years succeeding the fiscal year for which they were made. Revises provisions for grants to State educational agencies and institutions of higher education for traineeships. Directs the Secretary of Education (the Secretary) to make a grant of sufficient size and scope to each State educational agency which applies, and to an institution of higher education in any State where the State educational agency does not apply for such a grant. Authorizes the Secretary also to make a limited number of such grants to State educational agencies on a competitive basis (up to ten percent of the total amount expended in the preceding year). Authorizes the Secretary to make continuation grants for FY 1989 to institutions of higher education that received competitive grants for FY 1987. Sets forth a special rule for FY 1987 preschool grants. Allows a State educational agency to use funds made available in FY 1986 under the preschool grants program in FY 1987 in accordance with statutory and regulatory provisions in effect for FY 1986 and its application for FY 1986. Makes inapplicable to children aged three through five in any State for any fiscal year for which the State receives a preschool grant under EHA certain Federal regulations requiring a public agency to make free public education available to all of its handicapped children of the same age in the same disability category, if it provides education to 50 percent or more of its handicapped children in any disability category in the three to five age group. Title II: Amendments to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 - Amends the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (RA) to make technical and conforming amendments, including making terminology gender neutral and updating cross-references, and revising language referring to people with handicaps and disabilities. Renames: (1) the National Council on the Handicapped as the National Council on Disability; (2) the Interagency Committee on Handicapped Research as the Interagency Committee on Disability Research; and (3) the Office of Information and Resources for the Handicapped as the Office of Information and Resources for Individuals with Disabilities. Revises provisions relating to membership and expiration of members' terms on the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board. Changes the wording of certain provisions from "employment of the handicapped" to "employment of people with disabilities," and from "handicapped individuals" to "individuals with handicaps." Corrects provisions for an authorization of appropriations to reflect an authorization through FY 1991. Title III: Amendments Relating to the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities - Amends a specified Joint Resolution to change: (1) a certain commemorative week to a commemorative month; (2) the name from National Employ the Physically Handicapped (Week) to National Disability Employment Awareness Month; and (3) references to "handicapped workers" to references to "workers with disabilities." Amends another specified Joint Resolution to change the name of the President's Committee on National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week to the President's Committee on People with Disabilities. Authorizes such Committee to: (1) accept voluntary and uncompensated services; and (2) accept, use, and dispose of money or property received by gift, devise, bequest, or otherwise. Title IV: Amendments Relating to the American Printing House for the Blind - American Printing House for the Blind Amendments of 1988 - Terminates on October 1, 1989, the perpetual trust fund and the permanent annual appropriations established under specified Federal law providing for the American Printing House for the Blind (APHB). Makes a conforming amendment to another specified Federal law, thereby preserving its authorization of appropriations for APHB, while removing a reference to the permanent annual appropriation. Deems compensated by the appropriation to APHB for FY 1990 any and all rights of APHB determined to have vested in the permanent trust fund. Provides that references to the permanent trust fund and permanent annual appropriations shall not be given any effect, notwithstanding any Federal law. Title V: Amendments to the Helen Keller National Center Act - Amends the Helen Keller National Center Act to extend through FY 1991 the authorization of appropriations for the Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 475 (100th)passed

A resolution urging the Polish Government to recognize the independent trade union Solidarity as a legal entity.

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 1988

Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Polish Government should: (1) recognize the contribution to the economic and social reconstruction of the country to be made by Poles acting through independent, voluntary organizations; and (2) confer legal and independent status upon the trade union Solidarity.

Bill· SS. 2796 (100th)referred

Martin Luther King, Jr., Federal Holiday Commission Extension Act

United States · United States Congress · 15 September 1988

Martin Luther King, Jr., Federal Holiday Commission Extension Act - Extends the termination date of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal Holiday Commission to April 20, 1994. Makes the term of Commission members one year, except for Coretta Scott King (life term) and members of the family surviving Martin Luther King, Jr. (at the discretion of the family). Replaces provisions requiring all expenditures of the Commission to be from donated funds with provisions authorizing appropriations for FY 1989 through 1993. Makes payment of expenses for Commission members and staff salary subject to the availability of funds.

Bill· SS. 2783 (100th)referred

A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide coverage for certain screening examinations and cancer detection tests under part B, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 13 September 1988

Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to cover cancer screening examinations and detection tests which include: (1) a clinical pelvic screening examination; (2) a clinical digital rectal screening examination; (3) a stool occult blood test; (4) a papanicolau (pap) test; and (5) other examinations and tests which the Secretary of Health and Human Services authorizes and which are related to the detection of cancers to which the preceding examinations and tests relate. Prohibits coverage of each such test or examination more than once a year, except for a stool occult blood test which shall be covered biannually. Requires the Secretary to establish: (1) a relative value scale to serve as the basis for payment for such cancer detection procedures; and (2) standards to assure the safety, accuracy, and effectiveness of such procedures. Directs the Secretary to enter into an agreement with a national laboratory and agreements with regional laboratories having expertise in conducting pap tests to evaluate and report on the accuracy of a random sample of such tests from each provider. Requires the Secretary to establish standards of accuracy for such tests and deny payments to providers which do not satisfy such standards. Prohibits a regional laboratory from performing such review function with respect to a laboratory with which it has a financial relationship. Directs the Secretary to use State agencies to determine laboratory compliance with standards established pursuant to this Act.

Bill· SS. 2756 (100th)open

Anti-Apartheid Act Amendments of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 7 September 1988

Anti-Apartheid Act Amendments of 1988 - Title I: Sanctions Against Investment In, And Exports To, South Africa And Other Measures (Except Import Restrictions) To End Apartheid - Amends the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act of 1986 to prohibit any investments in South Africa by U.S. persons. Makes exceptions to such prohibition for: (1) any investment in a business enterprise 90 percent owned by and controlled by South Africans economically and politically disadvantaged by apartheid; and (2) investments made by certain individuals during any period and to the extent that such investments are considered South Africian emigrant non-resident assets and subject to restrictions on their transfer or disposition. Authorizes a person to apply for, and the President to grant for good cause, a waiver of such prohibition for up to 180 days. Prohibits the exportation or reexportation to South Africa of any goods or technology subject to U.S. jurisdiction. Prohibits any such exportation or reexportation by any person subject to U.S. jurisdiction. Exempts from such prohibition publications, donations of food, clothing and medical supplies, commercial sales of agricultural commodities and products, and goods and technology for use in the gathering or dissemination of information by news media organizations subject to the jurisdiction of the United States. Specifies that such prohibitions shall not apply to: (1) any goods that are the direct product of technology of U.S. origin under a written agreement entered into on or before April 20, 1988, and that are exported within one year of the enactment of this Act; (2) economic assistance or human rights programs for disadvantaged South Africans, South African blacks or other nonwhite South Africans, or victims of apartheid in South Africa; and (3) contributions to charitable organizations engaged in social welfare, public health, religious, educational, and emergency relief activities in South Africa. Repeals specified provisions of the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act of 1986 prohibiting certain exports to, imports from, and investments in South Africa. Revises the definition of "loans" for purposes of such Act to prohibit short-term trade financing and sales on open account. Adds other definitions for purposes of such Act. Requires U.S. controlled South African entities that are subject to the investment prohibition and that employ more than 24 South Africans to notify employees and employee organizations not less than 90 days prior to termination of the U.S. investment in such entity and to enter into good faith negotiations with respresentative trade unions regarding the terms of such termination. Prohibits any U.S. person from providing transport to South Africa of a commercial quantity of crude oil or refined petroleum products. Specifies that such prohibition includes transport on a vessel of U.S. registry or on a vessel owned by a U.S. person. Prohibits the Secretary of the Interior from issuing any mineral lease to any national of the United States which is controlled by any foreign person who purchases, acquires, owns, or holds any investment in South Africa or who exports crude oil or refined petroleum products to South Africa. Prohibits the Secretary of Energy from authorizing any person to engage, directly or indirectly, in the production of special nuclear material in South Africa. Prohibits any U.S. agency or entity involved in intelligence activities from engaging in any form of cooperation with the Government of South Africa except activities which facilitate the collection of necessary intelligence. Prohibits any such U.S. agency or entity from providing any information in the Government of South Africa relating to: (1) a South African opposition group, organization or individual; or (2) political, economic, or military conditions in any southern African country. Specifies that such prohibitions shall not apply to the conduct of diplomatic activities or to intelligence information concerning the military activities or equipment in southern Africa of Cuban military forces or of another Communist country acting in concert with Cuban military forces. Provides that any anticipated change in any form of cooperation with the Government of South Africa shall be considered a significant anticipated intelligence activity requiring a presidential finding in accordance with the National Security Act of 1947. Prohibits any U.S. agency or entity from providing any information to the Government of South Africa for the purpose of assisting South Africa to evade any sanctions or prohibitions imposed by this Act. Prohibits funds made available by the Congress from being obligated or expended for any expense related to any such prohibited cooperation. Repeals provisions of the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1987 concerning restrictions on intelligence agency cooperation with South Africa. Establishes within the Department of State a Coordinator of South Africa Sanctions who shall be responsible to the Secretary of State for matters pertaining to the implementation of sanctions against South Africa. Directs the Coordinator to place emphasis on activities related to strategically important trade in oil, coal, computers, specialized machinery and arms, and to financial credits. Sets forth the responsibilities of the Secretary of State in leading and coordinating the activities of other agencies in implementing and enforcing the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act of 1986 and in monitoring other nations' economic relations with South Africa. Requires the Secretary to submit to the Congress an annual report on actions to monitor and enforce such Act and on economic relations between South Africa and each of its trading partners. Establishes an Inter-Agency Coordinating Committee on South Africa to coordinate and monitor the implementation of such Act. States that South Africa's granting of independence to Namibia is a major policy goal of the United States. Includes such granting of independence as one of several actions South Africa must take to have U.S. sanctions terminated. Sets forth penalties for violations of this Act. Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to permit the use of a specified amount of funds authorized for economic development assistance for assistance to disadvantaged South Africans. Specifies that such assistance may include scholarships, the promotion of the participation of disadvantaged South Africans in trade unions and private enterprise, alternative education and community development programs, and training and other assistance (including legal aid) for South African journalists. Lists major trade union federations in South Africa and Namibia as examples of recipients of U.S. assistance to the labor movement. Earmarks a specified amount of such funds for refugee education and assistance for South Africans and Namibians. Specifies that such funds may not be used for assistance for individuals in areas under the control of or administered by the South West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO) or the African National Congress (ANC). Allows the President to waive such restriction concerning the ANC under specified conditions. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should: (1) direct the Attorney General to conduct an antitrust investigation of the South African controlled international diamond cartel; (2) direct the Secretary of Commerce and the Commissioner of Customs to study the feasibility of identifying at the port of entry the national origin of diamonds entering the United States; and (3) ensure effective and rigorous enforcement of a prohibition on the importation into the United States of uncut South African diamonds by taking specified measures. Requires the President to conduct a study and submit a report to the Congress concerning measures to reduce South Africa's foreign exchange earnings from gold. Requires the Secretary of State to submit a report to the Congress concerning South Africa's involvement in international terrorism. Title II: Sanctions Against South African Imports Into the United States - Prohibits the importation into the United States of any article from South Africa, or a parastatal organization thereof, except: (1) strategic minerals which the President certifies to the Congress are essential for military or economic purposes and are not available from alternative reliable suppliers or through improved manufacturing processes, conservation, recycling, and economical substitution; and (2) publications. Specifies that such prohibition includes: (1) uranium hexafluoride that has been manufactured from South African uranium or uranium oxide; and (2) fish or seafood which are products of South Africa. Exempts from such prohibition any imports from business enterprises in South Africa that are wholly-owned by persons economically or politically disadvantaged by apartheid. Requires the President to confer with other industrialized democracies in order to reach cooperative agreements to impose sanctions against South Africa to bring about the dismantling of apartheid. Requires the President to report to the Congress concerning such efforts. Requires the President to seek United Nations Security Council adoption of the same sanctions against South Africa as are imposed by the United States. (Present law only encourages the President to take such actions.) Requires the President to impose penalties against foreign persons taking significant commercial advantage of U.S. sanctions against South Africa or comparable sanctions of other industrialized democracies. (Present law only authorizes the President to impose such penalties.) Includes as such a penalty the restriction of such a person from contracting with U.S. Government entities. Allows the President to waive such penalties for foreign persons of an industrialized democracy that is a party to a cooperative agreement to impose sanctions against South Africa. Requires the President to revoke such waiver if the industrialized democracy is not adequately enforcing the measures provided for under the agreement. Requires that information concerning the extent to which import restrictions were being enforced by other industrialized democracies must be included in the Secretary of State's annual report to the Congress. Sets forth provisions pertaining to committee referral in the House of Representatives of joint resolutions pertaining to import restrictions. Requires the President, through the Secretary of Commerce, to submit periodic reports to the Congress setting forth the average amounts of imports of coal or any strategic and critical material entering the United States from each member country and observer country of the Council for Mutual Economic Assistance (C.M.E.A.) Requires the President to submit annual reports to the Congress concerning the program to reduce U.S. dependence upon the importation of strategic minerals from South Africa. Requires the President to confer with the governments of the African "frontline" States regarding measures to prevent the circumvention of the import restrictions on South African products imposed under the authority of this Act. Title III: General Provisions - Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should: (1) denounce the use of violence by the South African Government and call upon the South African Government to immediately terminate the nationwide state of emergency and release all detainees; (2) urge the African National Congress to condemn the practice of "necklacing" and to take actions against such practice; and (3) clearly state that the United States does not condone the use of violence as a means of achieving or thwarting political change in South Africa. Sets forth the effective date of this Act.

Resolution· SRESS.Res. 465 (100th)passed

A resolution concerning the return of Senator Joe Biden.

United States · United States Congress · 11 August 1988

Declares that, on the return of Joseph Biden to the Senate after a six-month absence to recuperate from surgery, the Members of the Senate extend their warmest welcome and personal happiness as well as their best wishes for his continued good health.

Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 140 (100th)open

A concurrent resolution calling for the restoration of democracy in Panama and pledging economic assistance.

United States · United States Congress · 11 August 1988

Expresses the sense of the Congress that the United States should: (1) work with President DelValle, democratic forces in Panama, and other governments in the region to achieve the early departure of General Noriega from office and from Panama, the restoration of civilian constitutional rule, freedom of the press, political freedom, and free and fair elections in Panama; (2) work with the people of Panama to revive their economy if democracy is restored to Panama; and (3) consider providing financial and economic support, emergency food assistance, development assistance, housing guarantees, and foreign military sales credits to Panama.

Bill· SS. 2685 (100th)referred

Health Waste Anti-Dumping Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1988

Health Waste Anti-Dumping Act of 1988 - Amends the Federal criminal code to establish criminal penalties for knowingly dumping any health care facility waste upon the high seas or any waters within the admiralty and maritime jurisdiction of the United States. Includes wastes of veterinary services and laboratory services under the prohibition.

Bill· SS. 2680 (100th)referred

New Jersey-New York-Connecticut Medical Waste Tracking Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1988

New Jersey-New York-Connecticut Medical Waste Tracking Act of 1988 - Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a demonstration program to track, by the use of a manifest system, medical waste generated and disposed of in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Includes in such program the monitoring of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and New England beaches, where there have been reported incidences of medical waste being washed up on shore. Makes such program applicable to generators of medical waste and owners and operators of facilities for the treatment, storage, transport, and disposal of medical waste. Requires such parties to permit access to, and provide copies of, all records relating to such wastes to any designated representative of the EPA. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for violations of program requirements. Provides that this Act does not preclude any State or locality from imposing more stringent requirements for the control or monitoring of medical waste, or affect the authorities or requirements of the Solid Waste Disposal Act. Requires the Administrator to report to the Congress, within three years of this Act's enactment, on the progress and success of the demonstration program. Authorizes appropriations for such program for FY 1989 through 1991. Authorizes and directs the Administrator to use authority provided in the Solid Waste Disposal Act to immediately address and correct the improper disposal of medical waste.

Bill· SS. 2662 (100th)open

Textile Apparel and Footwear Trade Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1988

Textile Apparel and Footwear Trade Act of 1988 - Limits the 1987 imports of textiles and textile products classified under a category to an amount equal to 101 percent of the total 1986 imports classified under such category. Limits the 1987 imports of nonrubber footwear classified under a nonrubber footwear category to an amount equal to: (1) the total 1986 imports of nonrubber footwear classified under such category; and (2) in the case of low priced nonrubber footwear, the total 1986 imports of low priced nonrubber footwear classified under such category. Provides for a one-percent annual growth in the amount of permitted imports of textiles and textile products after 1987. Sets forth specified exceptions to the limits placed on imported textiles and nonrubber footwear. Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to prescribe regulations to enforce limitations imposed on the quantity of textiles classified under each category which are entered in 1989 only if they ensure that: (1) the amount of such limitations is allocated to such products of each country to which the total quantity of U.S. agricultural products exported during the year preceding the applicable year exceeds the total quantity of U.S. agricultural products exported to such country during the year before the year preceding the applicable year; and (2) the amount of textiles classified under each category entered during the applicable year that is allocated so that each country exceeds the quantity of such products of such country classified under such category that entered during the year preceding the applicable year. Authorizes the President to: (1) enter into trade agreements to grant new concessions as compensation, to the extent required under U.S. trade agreements for the import limits imposed by this Act; and (2) proclaim such modification or continuance of any existing duty on textiles and textile products and on nonrubber footwear as necessary to carry out such agreements. Prohibits the President from reducing any rate of duty by more than ten percent. Requires the President, before entering into such trade agreements, to consider whether such country has violated trade concessions of benefit to the United States and such violation has not been adequately offset by U.S. action or by the action of such country. Sets forth requirements governing staged rate reductions in the tariffs of articles affected by this Act. Prohibits the President, except as authorized by this paragraph, from entering into trade negotiations with any country with respect to duties on textiles, textile products, and nonrubber footwear. Prohibits the President, except as provided in this paragraph, from decreasing or proposing a decrease in any such duty by any means, including an implementing bill or a proclamation. Requires the President to report annually to the Congress on the administration of this Act. Requires the Secretary of Commerce, ten years after enactment of this Act, to study and report to the Congress on the operation of this Act. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to establish a pilot program for the issuance and sale of import licenses applicable to categories of textiles to U.S. companies at public auction. Sets forth provisions relating to the applicability of such licenses to such categories. Requires revenues from the sale of import licenses to be paid into the Treasury. Terminates such licensing program on December 31, 1989. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to report to the Congress, not later than March 31, 1990, on the administration of such program.

Bill· SS. 2647 (100th)open

Stafford Student Loan Default Prevention and Management Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1988

Stafford Student Loan Default Prevention and Management Act of 1988 - Title I: Default Management - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (the Act) to require default management plans to be developed and carried out by certain guaranty agencies, eligible lenders, and eligible institutions with high default rates under part B (the Robert T. Stafford Student Loan Program, formerly known as the Guaranteed Student Loan Program) of title IV (Student Assistance) of the Act. Directs the Secretary of Education (the Secretary) to determine the default rates for guaranty agencies, eligible lenders, and eligible institutions. Requires those guaranty agencies, lenders, and institutions with default rates in excess of 25 percent to develop and carry out default management plans. Subjects guaranty agencies, lenders, and institutions with high volume default rates in the highest five percent by volume of defaulted student loans to program review by the Secretary (in the case of guaranty agencies) or by the State guaranty agency (in the case of lenders or institutions). Directs the Secretary (or the State guaranty agency, as the case may be) to develop and implement a default management plan for such guaranty agencies, lenders, or institutions if it is determined that their management practices substantially contribute to the high volume default. Sets forth default management provisions which may be required under such plans. Sets forth procedural requirements relating to such plans. Sets forth plan enforcement procedures, including limitation, suspension, or termination proceedings. Sets forth formulas for the calculation of default rates. Revises definitions of guaranty agency, eligible lender, and eligible institution to disqualify those that fail or refuse to develop default management plans. Title II: Improved Stafford Student Loan Collection Provisions - Requires each eligible institution to transmit financial aid transcripts (necessary for loan need determination statements) within 30 days of receiving a request from another such institution. Requires lenders or holders of the loan to notify the borrower, within 180 days after the student borrower leaves the eligible institution, of the month in which the repayment period begins, for both federally-insured student loans (FISL loans) and guaranteed student loans under the Stafford program (Stafford loans). Requires lenders of Stafford loans to notify the guaranty agency (and the borrower, if the loan is to be paid at a new address) of any sale or transfer of the loan to another holder, and the address and phone number through which to contact such other holder concerning loan repayment, within 60 days of such sale or transfer. Authorizes guaranty agencies, when the location of a student borrower is unknown or unavailable to them, to enter into agreements for the appropriate State licensing board to provide that information. Authorizes guaranty agencies to enter into agreements for eligible institutions to make payments on loans in default. Prohibits such eligible institutions from: (1) adversely affecting the rights of borrowers in entering into agreements with them to pay their loans; or (2) being relieved of responsibility for carrying out a default management plan, for more than one year. Eliminates loan repayment deferments that are based on the status of the child rather than the parent, under the parent loan (PLUS) program. Requires lenders to obtain a credit check of applicants for PLUS loans. Allows the lender to charge the applicant for the actual cost of such credit check, up to $25. Requires applicants with negative credit histories to obtain credit-worthy cosigners. Requires an administrative fee, not to exceed five percent of the principal, to be charged to the borrower and paid to the Secretary by the lender, under the Supplemental Loans for Students (SLS) and PLUS loan programs. Requires that the amount to be consolidated be greater than $7,500, in order for a borrower to consolidate loans borrowed for an enrollment period of 12 months or less. Sets forth additional requirements with respect to disbursement of student loans. Requires multiple disbursement of student loans under the Stafford Student Loan program. Requires that any such loan for $1,000 or more for an enrollment period ending more than 180 days or six months after the disbursement date, be disbursed in two or more installments, none of which exceeds one-half of the loan. Requires a minimum interval between the first and second installments. Requires such interval to be at least one-half of the enrollment period, except as necessary to permit disbursement of the second installment at the beginning of the second semester, quarter, or similar division of such enrollment period. Sets forth requirements for the initial disbursement. Prohibits disbursement of the first installment to a new student borrower entering the first undergraduate year until: (1) 30 days after the beginning of the enrollment period; and (2) the institution certifies to the lender that the student continues to be enrolled in good standing at the institution and has received specified loan counseling. Prohibits disbursement of loans to any other student more than 30 days before the beginning of the enrollment period. Sets forth requirements for methods of multiple disbursement. Requires the lender or escrow agent to withhold a second or succeeding installment if the borrower has ceased to be enrolled on at least a half-time basis. Provides that all loans issued for the same enrollment period shall be considered a single loan for specified purposes. Excludes from such additional disbursement requirements parent (PLUS) loans, consolidation loans, and loans to cover study at an institution outside the United States. Provides for transmittal of institutional disbursement schedules to lenders. Applies such additional disbursement requirements to the Stafford, SLS, and FISL programs. Directs the Secretary, guaranty agency, eligible lender, or subsequent holder to disclose to credit bureau organizations any information concerning the date a delinquency began and the repayment status of any loan that has been delinquent for 90 days. Requires that the borrower be informed that such organizations will be notified of such delinquency. Requires eligible lenders to furnish appropriate eligible institutions and guaranty agencies with lists of delinquent Stafford loan borrowers within 120 days of the date on which the loan is delinquent. Disqualifies guaranty agencies which sell lists of student borrowers with Stafford loans. Requires student borrowers to provide the lender at the time of loan application with their driver's license number and the name and address of their next of kin. Requires each eligible institution to require, during the exit interview, student borrowers to submit their address, name and address of next of kin, and driver's license number. Requires institutions, under student aid program participating agreements, to withhold academic transcripts of student borrowers in default on any title IV loan unless this will prevent the borrower from obtaining employment and repaying the loan. Prohibits institutions, under student aid program participation agreements, from: (1) using any contractor or anyone other than a salaried employee to make final determinations that an individual meets the institution's admissions requirements; or (2) paying any commission, bonus, or other incentive to any person making such final determination. Requires an institution to use the same definition of "academic year" for all programs authorized by title IV of the Act. Authorizes the Secretary to prescribe regulations for the limitation, suspension, or termination of eligibility of an individual or organization to administer any aspect of an institution's student assistance program. Limits such suspensions to 60 days, unless the organization and the Secretary agree to an extension, or unless limitation or termination proceedings are initiated. Directs the Comptroller General to: (1) conduct a study relating to the discharge of student loan indebtedness in bankruptcy proceedings; and (2) report the results of such study to the Congress within three years after enactment of this Act. Title III: Federal Responsibilities - Directs the Secretary to develop and publish an annual default report to the Congress, beginning on September 30, 1988, which includes: (1) the annual default rate for the Stafford Student Loan program; (2) a summary of the default rates for guaranty agencies, lenders, and institutions determined under default management plan positions; and (3) the net dollar volume in default for each such entity. Directs the Secretary to: (1) prepare a list of guaranty agencies, a list of eligible lenders, and a list of eligible institutions in the order of the volume of Stafford student loans in default for each such entity; and (2) identify the highest five percent of entities on each such list. Directs the Secretary to: (1) develop a plan, to be published in the Federal Register for public comment, for conducting program reviews of all guaranty agencies, eligible lenders, and eligible institutions; (2) report annually to the Congress on the results of such reviews; and (3) give priority to conducting program reviews of guaranty agencies and eligible institutions with the highest default rates and the highest dollar value of loans in default. Directs the Secretary to promulgate regulations specifying legal restrictions and requirements for eligible institutions relating to loan counseling and reporting, including disclosure of borrower records to third parties, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, and other applicable Federal laws. Prohibits an institution from being certified or recertified as eligible for the Stafford Student Loan program or other title IV programs if it: (1) has had its accreditation withdrawn, revoked, or otherwise terminated for cause during the preceding 24 months; or (2) has withdrawn from accreditation voluntarily under a show cause or suspension order during such period. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out limitation, suspension, or termination proceedings against an institution if it: (1) withdraws from an accrediting agency or association during a show cause or suspension proceeding; or (2) is denied institutional accreditation. Authorizes the Secretary to arrange with accrediting agencies and associations to assure notice of such denials of institutional accreditation. Prohibits the Secretary from approving the accreditation of an eligible institution if such institution is in the process of receiving a new accreditation unless the institution submits to the Secretary all materials relating to the prior accreditation, including its reasons, if applicable, for changing the accrediting agency or association. Directs the Secretary to contract for, or establish, and publicize a toll-free telephone number as a consumer hotline for use by the public, to permit students to inform the Department of alleged fraud or unfair practices by eligible institutions. Directs the Secretary to make such hotline generally available to students receiving title IV financial assistance, through arrangements to use the facilities of institutions with program participation agreements. Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary to establish the National Student Loan Data System and to assure that such computerized System is operable by October 1, 1989. Requires guaranty agencies to: (1) furnish the Department with information to be used in the System, on the amount of, and other relevant data about, each loan under the Stafford Student Loan program; (2) expand and standardize the confirmation reports required by this Act to assure such information is provided at least bimonthly on delinquencies, defaults, and borrower status changes; and (3) provide the Secretary with complete and accurate data for the System on a quarterly basis. Authorizes the Secretary to require an institution to refund the student's tuition and fees in cases of violation, failure, or misrepresentation under title IV of the Act. Directs the Secretary to establish refund procedures which first require payment to the Federal Government and then require payment to the lender. Title IV: Amendments to the Needs Analysis Provisions - Revises need analysis provisions under title IV of the Act. Revises the definition of independent student. Modifies provisions for the computation of parents' contribution, for purposes of Pell Grant need analysis and general need analysis, to require that a family member be enrolled at an eligible institution in a postsecondary education program which meets specified requirements that it lead to a degree, certificate, or other recognized educational credential, in order for that family member to be counted as in college. Modifies Pell Grant need analysis provisions relating to student income. Revises eligibility determinations for single independent students or married independent students without other dependents, with respect to: (1) computations of student aid index and standard contribution from student's and spouse's income; (2) determinations of effective family income for single independent students without other dependents and for married independent students without other dependents; (3) total offsets against income; (4) assessment of discretionary income; and (5) contribution from student's and spouse's assets. Modifies general need analysis provisions relating to student income, with respect to determinations of appropriate income contributions. Reduces from 70 percent to 40 percent the amount of student income considered for purposes of expected contribution by: (1) a dependent student; and (2) an independent student without dependents. Sets forth special rules allowing student financial aid administrators to make necessary adjustments in need analysis with respect to the following groups in the following ways. Allows the costs of food and shelter for dependent care to be included in the cost of attendance, in the case of independent students with dependents and with incomes less than the Standard Maintenance Allowance. Allows projected income for the award year to be considered instead of income reported for the preceding tax year, and allows the primary residence to be excluded, in the calculation of the expected family contribution in the case of dislocated workers. Allows the net value of investments and real estate, including the primary residence, to be excluded in the calculation of expected family contribution, in the case of displaced homemakers. Excludes the net value of the principal place of residence from determinations of expected contributions under both Pell Grant and general need analysis. Title V: Other Higher Education Amendments - Revises provisions relating to the period of eligibility for Pell Grants to limit such period to the full-time equivalent of: (1) the number of academic years that the undergraduate degree normally requires, plus one academic year; or (2) six academic years in the case of a degree or certificate program normally requiring more than four academic years. Revises College Work-Study program eligibility standards to require that only need-based employment (employment that directly offsets educational expenses) be monitored for purposes of such eligibility determinations. Specifies that individuals serving in a medical internship or residency program leading to a degree or certificate awarded by a hospital or health care facility are eligible for certain two-year deferments from student loan repayment (but not eligible for certain others) under the FISL, Stafford Student Loan, and Direct Student Loan programs. Revises provisions relating to the Student Loan Marketing Association (Sallie Mae). Revises provisions for its Board of Directors with respect to: (1) composition; (2) terms of elected and appointed members; (3) election of Chairman; (4) meetings; and (5) functions. Requires that there be a single class of voting common stock, and that previously held non-voting stock be converted to voting stock. Entitles these revisions as the Student Loan Marketing Association Amendments of 1988. Revises provisions for forms and regulations. Requires that the common Federal student aid application contain the minimum data elements necessary for determination of a student's financial need. Provides for collection and use of additional data. Requires competitive bidding to determine qualified processors, and sets forth criteria for participation in such bidding process. Requires eligible institutions to provide statements to student aid recipients listing the estimated student assistance, specifying the amount and type of assistance awarded under title IV of the Act, and indicating that such aid is federally supported. Amends the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA) to no longer exclude programs under the Higher Education Act of 1965 from GEPA audit provisions. Title VI: Effective Dates - Sets forth effective dates for various provisions of this Act.

Bill· SS. 2614 (100th)open

National Science and Technology Policy Amendments of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 7 July 1988

National Science and Technology Policy Amendments of 1988 - Amends the National Science and Technology Policy, Organization, and Priorities Act of 1976 to provide for assignment to the Federal Coordinating Council for Science, Engineering, and Technology of responsibilities to make long-range plans for cooperative scientific and technical research among Federal agencies. Directs the President, through the Council, to develop a National Global Change Research Plan for a ten-year national research effort concerning both human-induced and natural processes of global change. Requires the Plan to include objectives, funding requirements, and proposed roles for each appropriate Federal agency. Requires that the Plan be submitted to the Congress within one year of this Act's enactment and revised at least triennially. Lists research topics and activities, including global measurements, documentation of global changes, predictions, and data base development. Suggests primary assignments with respect to specific agencies. Directs each participating Federal agency to include global change research funding requirements in its annual budget request. Directs the Chairman of the Council to submit to the President and to the Congress an annual report on global change research efforts.

Bill· SS. 2590 (100th)referred

Presidential Election Reform Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 29 June 1988

Presidential Election Reform Act of 1988 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to repeal: (1) the Presidential Election Campaign Fund; (2) the Presidential Primary Matching Payment Account; and (3) the authority for individuals to designate sums to the Presidential Election Campaign Fund through income tax returns. Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to repeal dollar limits on expenditures by presidential and vice-presidential candidates (hereinafter referred to as presidential candidates). Limits contributions to presidential candidates or their authorized political committees to $5,000. Prohibits multicandidate political committees from making contributions to presidential candidates or their authorized political committees. Requires corporations, labor organizations, and each national committee of a political party to file a report with the Commission if such entities have engaged in any otherwise exempt activity during the period for which the report is filed. Describes "otherwise exempt activities" as those activities which are exempt from disclosure requirements and which include any act of furnishing or making available services, payments, or other benefits excluded from the definition of contribution or expenditure. Establishes reporting requirements for persons making independent expenditures in presidential elections totaling more than $10,000, and thereafter each time such persons make independent expenditures totaling more than $5,000. Subjects to such reporting requirements the exempt activities of corporations and labor organizations. Sets forth disclosure requirements for independent expenditures for elections through broadcast communications on any radio or television station, including identifying the sponsors of such broadcasts. Provides that an expenditure is not an independent expenditure where the person making an expenditure is in coordination, consultation, or concert with a presidential candidate. Requires such candidate, within 15 days of qualifying for a primary election ballot, to file with the Commission and each other qualifying candidate a declaration stating whether or not such candidate intends to expend funds and incur personal loans for the primary and general election in the aggregate of $250,000 or more from the following sources: (1) personal funds; (2) family funds; and (3) personal loans incurred in connection with the campaign for office. Allows the opponents of such candidate to accept larger contribution amounts from individuals. Requires a presidential candidate who files a declaration of intent not to expend more than $250,000 and who subsequently does exceed such amount to file an amended declaration within 24 hours after exceeding such amount. Prohibits such candidate from making expenditures from personal funds or family funds or from incurring personal loans in connection with the election campaign at any time within 60 days before such election. Prohibits a presidential candidate who makes expenditures from personal funds or family funds to the candidate's campaign committee, or makes a loan from such funds to such committee, from using any other contributions after the election to repay such expenditure or loan.

Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 347 (100th)referred

A joint resolution in support of the restoration of a free and independent Cambodia and the protection of the Cambodian people from a return to power by the genocidal Khmer Rouge.

United States · United States Congress · 29 June 1988

Declares that all parties seeking a settlement of the conflict in Cambodia, including the United States, should have among their highest priorities the restoration of an independent Cambodia and the protection of the Cambodian people from a return to power by the Khmer Rouge. Calls on Vietnam to withdraw its forces from Cambodia and deny haven to the Khmer Rouge. Declares that the United States and the international community should use all means available to prevent a return to power of Pol Pot. Calls on the President to seek inclusion, in United Nations resolutions relating to Cambodia, of the principle that those responsible for acts of genocide and human rights violations shall not return to power in Cambodia upon the withdrawal of foreign occupation forces. Encourages support of non-Communist Cambodian forces. Declares that the United States, in consultation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, should consider whether a Cambodian settlement could be facilitated by an international conference on Cambodia and international peacekeeping forces.

Bill· SS. 2576 (100th)referred

Department of Environmental Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1988

Department of Environmental Protection Act - Redesignates the Environmental Protection Agency as the Department of Environmental Protection, an executive department to be administered by a Secretary of Environmental Protection appointed by the President.

Law· SS. 2560 (100th)enacted

Hunger Prevention Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1988

Hunger Prevention Act of 1988 - Title I: Emergency Hunger Prevention - Subtitle A: Temporary Emergency Food Assistance Program - Amends the Temporary Emergency Food Assistance Act of 1983 to state that the dairy export incentive program and the export sales of dairy products program shall not be operated in a way that will reduce the dairy products available for the temporary emergency food assistance program (TEFAP) or any other domestic feeding program. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish procedures for non-Federal commodity contributions to Federal food assistance programs. Authorizes States and feeding organizations to use TEFAP funds, equipment, and facilities to store, handle, and distribute such commodity contributions. Permits States to use up to three percent of TEFAP funds for food assistance information programs. Directs State and local agencies to continue to use volunteers and donated food stuffs in food distribution programs. Extends TEFAP, including storage and distribution authorizations, through FY 1990. Increases the amount of TEFAP funds for emergency feeding organizations. Extends TEFAP commodity estimate requirements through FY 1990. Directs the Secretary, during each of FY 1989 and 1990, to purchase and makes available for food assistance at least $145,000,000 worth of high protein additional commodities. Establishes a State distribution formula based on 60 percent poverty level and 40 percent unemployment. Authorizes appropriations. Directs States to use TEFAP funds for the costs of distributing additional commodities to emergency feeding organizations, soup kitchens, and other meal sites and charitable organizations. Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to extend through FY 1991: (1) the dairy export incentive program; and (2) the export sales of dairy products program. Subtitle B: Soup Kitchens and Other Emergency Food Aid - Directs the Secretary, during each of FY 1989 through 1991, to purchase and make available to soup kitchens and other meal sites and charitable organizations $40,000,000 of additional commodities. Establishes a State distribution formula based on 60 percent poverty level and 40 percent unemployment. Authorizes appropriations. Subtitle C: Basic Food Stamp Benefit Levels - Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to increase basic food stamp benefit levels as follows: (1) for the period of January 1, 1989, through September 30, 1989, basic benefits would be set at 79 percent of the Department of Agriculture's low-cost food plan; (2) for FY 1990 at 79.5 percent of such plan; and (3) for post-FY 1990 at 80 percent of such plan. Subtitle D: Commodity Supplemental Food Program - Directs the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) to make 7,000,000 pounds of cheese available in each of FY 1989 and 1990 to the commodity supplemental food program. Title II: Nutrition Improvements - Subtitle A: Food Stamp Act of 1977 - Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to prohibit parents living with their minor children from applying for food stamps as a "household" separate from their co-residents (even if meals are purchased and prepared separately). Makes permanent categorical food stamp program (program) eligibility based on eligibility for specified social security programs. Exempts households with an elderly or disabled member from monthly income tests. States that: (1) household not required to submit monthly income reports shall have their income calculated on a prospective basis; and (2) households required to submit monthly income reports shall have their income calculated on a retrospective basis, except under specified circumstances. Repeals the requirement of prior approval by the Secretary for less than monthly income reporting of certain households. Prohibits a state agency from requiring periodic reporting of households: (1) made up entirely of migrant or seasonal farm workers; (2) made up entirely of homeless persons; or (3) with no earned income and in which all adult members are elderly or disabled. Requires that households reporting monthly be provided with clear and understandable reporting forms. Provides full program benefits for breaks in certification of 30 days of less. Permits households subject to benefit prorating to receive an aggregate benefit allotment. Extends the scope of program information activities. Amends the Homeless Eligibility Clarification Act to make permanent the authority for homeless persons in shelters to receive food stamps. Subtitle B: Child Nutrition Act of 1966, and National School Lunch Act - Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to increase the school breakfast program reimbursement rate by three cents per meal. Amends the National School Lunch Act to provide an additional meal or snack to children who attend day care centers which are open more than eight hours a day. Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to define "homeless individual" for purposes of the special supplemental food program (WIC) as an individual who: (1) lacks a fixed and regular nighttime residence; or (2) has a primary nighttime residence that is a publicly or privately operated temporary shelter, an institution providing temporary residence for persons intended to be institutionalized, temporary accommodation in another individual's residence, or a public or private place not normally used as a sleeping accommodation. Makes homeless individuals eligible for the special supplemental food program. Requires State WIC plans to include homeless outreach programs. Amends the National School Lunch Act to permit public or private nonprofit higher education institutions participating in the National Youth Sports program and certain private nonprofit organizations to participate in the summer food program. Title III: Administrative Improvements and Simplification - Subtitle A: Reducing Unnecessary Paperwork - Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to require State agencies to attempt to conciliate a dispute with a program participant before terminating program benefits. Sets forth specified categories of program ineligibility (income, program violations, status) where such procedure shall not be required. Directs the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to assist States to develop simple application forms for food stamps, aid to families with dependent children, and Medicaid. Requires State agencies to provide applicant households with a statement of required program verification. Bars program denial because of the failure of a person outside the household to cooperate in such verification. Requires State plans of operation to provide for opportunities to make reports (in person or by telephone) to food stamp offices. Subtitle B: Assuring Accurate Issuance of Benefits - Requires State agencies to promptly restore improperly denied, terminated, or underissued benefits when a household's loss is discovered through a review procedure. Authorizes State agencies to provide special training to: (1) certifying personnel relating to households that include members who are self-employed or engaged in farming; and (2) personnel working with volunteer or nonprofit organizations that offer program screening or information services. Requires the Secretary to annually publish instructional materials for such certifying personnel. Requires State agencies to provide households with a statement describing the household's reporting responsibilities at the time of each certification and recertification. Subtitle C: Reducing Barriers in rural America - Requires State plans of operation to include a procedure for designating rural project areas with transportation problems as appropriate for certification and coupon issuance by mail. Requires such plans to provide that a community of more than 5,000 persons that is more than 30 miles from its certification office be visited at least twice a month by a certification officer unless such community is otherwise served in a manner that provides reasonable program access. Requires the Secretary to set standards for food stamp office closings or relocations which shall seek to minimize the adverse impact on program access, with special emphasis on the needs of rural areas, the elderly, the disabled, and the homeless. Subtitle D: Eliminating Inequities for Farmers and Others - Continues program benefits to participants who receive pay-outs, including direct cash payments, from other Federal assistance programs. Permits households with self-employed farming income and irregular expenses to annualize income and expenses. Excludes from financial resources farm property (land, equipment, or supplies) for a one-year period after a self-employed farmer ceases farming. Prohibits making a household ineligible for program benefits due to its failure to dispose of a farming asset which would produce no funds in excess of any liens, mortgages, or other security interests, or be contrary to a legal duty. Subtitle E: Reducing Barriers for the Elderly and Disabled - Amends the definition of "disabled person" for program purposes to include the following benefits if such benefits are conditioned on criteria at least as stringent as those used under the Social Security Act: (1) interim supplemental security income-type benefits; (2) disability-related medical assistance under Medicaid; and (3) disability-based State assistance. Provides elderly and disabled persons with a simplified procedure for claiming excess medical deductions. Provides for a coordinated aid to families with dependent children-food stamp application. Title IV: Family Self-Sufficiency - Excludes from being considered as income for food stamp program purposes: (1) advance earned income tax credit payments; and (2) dependent care reimbursements under an employment and training program. Increases such maximum reimbursements from $160 per household per month to $160 per dependent per month. Increases the resource limit on automobiles from $4,500 to: (1) $4,700 in FY 1989; (2) $4,900 in FY 1990; (3) $5,150 in FY 1991; (4) $5,400 in FY 1992; and (5) $5,500 in FY 1993. Includes the following within the definition of "employment and training program": (1) high school or equivalent programs; (2) remedial literacy programs; (3) English-as-a-second-language instructional programs; (4) on-the-job training programs; and (5) job readiness programs. Provides, with regard to such employment and training programs, that: (1) the Secretary shall issue regulations under which State agencies shall establish conciliation procedures; (2) Federal funds shall not be used to supplant non-Federal funds for existing services; (3) State or local funds for such services shall be maintained at not less than FY 1987 levels; (4) transportation costs up to $100 per participant per month shall be covered; (5) the Secretary shall establish State performance standards based on employment and achievement of self-sufficiency; (6) Indian tribal organizations may conduct programs on reservations, with State program amounts of Federal assistance reduced as specified; and (7) the Secretary shall develop and transmit to the appropriate congressional committees incentive payment proposals. Title V: Demonstration Projects - Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to authorize three-year demonstration project grants in ten States to provide coupons (between ten and 20 dollars' worth) to WIC recipients for use at farmers' markets. Requires at least 30 percent State matching funds. Prohibits the use of funds to construct or operate a farmers' market. Limits the use of funds for administrative costs. Requires: (1) State recipients to make annual reports to the Secretary; and (2) the Secretary to provide the appropriation congressional committees with a project evaluation report within two years after the last grant award. Authorizes FY 1989 through 1991 appropriations. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out food bank commodity distribution projects. Requires the Secretary to submit a program report to the appropriate congressional committees by January 3, 1990. Terminates program authority on September 30, 1991. Authorizes FY 1989 through 1991 appropriations. Directs the Secretary, within 30 days after enactment of this Act but not earlier than October 1, 1988, to conduct a one-State demonstration project to reimburse family or group day care centers for providing an additional meal or supplement in order to determine: (1) if such additional meal or supplement increases child care food program participation; (2) the extent to which meal services increase in such homes; and (3) the nutritional impact of such meals and supplements. Requires the Secretary to submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees. Terminates the project not later than 12 months after its initiation. Title VI: Implementation - Sets forth specified effective dates for provisions of this Act.

Law· SS. 2561 (100th)enacted

Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals With Disabilities Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1988

Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals With Disabilities Act of 1988 - Title I: Grants to States - Directs the Secretary of Education to make grants to States for consumer-responsive comprehensive statewide programs of technology-related assistance for individuals of all ages with disabilities. Lists functions and activities which may be included in the programs. Directs the Secretary to award to States three-year grants for statewide programs of technology-related assistance for individuals with disabilities. Provides for the number and amounts of the grants. Gives States receiving grants in one fiscal year priority in the availability of amounts appropriated in the next fiscal year. Directs the Secretary to award grants in a manner that is geographically equitable and that distributes them among States that have differing levels of development of programs of technology-related assistance. Sets forth information and assurances which must accompany an application. Authorizes the Secretary to award a two-year extension grant to any State that demonstrates significant progress of a statewide program of technology-related assistance under a grant provided for in this Act. Provides for the amounts of the extension grants and for priority for previously-participating States. Specifies elements which must be included in an extension grant application. Requires each State that receives a grant under this title to submit an annual report to the Secretary. Sets forth specific requirements for reports with respect to extension grants. Directs the Secretary to establish a system to assess the extent to which States which receive grants under this title are making significant progress. Subjects any State which fails to comply with the requirements of this title to a corrective action plan. Declares that nothing in this title shall be construed to permit the State or any Federal agency to reduce medical or other assistance available or to alter eligibility under: (1) title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance), title V (Maternal and Child Health), title XVI (Supplemental Security Income), title XVIII (Medicare), title XIX (Medicaid), or title XX (Block Grants for States for Social Services) of the Social Security Act; (2) the Education of the Handicapped Act; (3) the Rehabilitation Act; or (4) laws relating to veterans' benefits. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1993. Directs the Secretary to reserve from amounts appropriated one percent for provision to States of information and technical assistance. Authorizes the Secretary to reserve sums as necessary to cover the cost of on-site visits. Directs the Secretary, directly or by contract, to: (1) conduct a national evaluation of the grant program authorized by this title; and (2) report to the Congress not later than October 1, 1992. Authorizes the Secretary to work with the States to consider and develop a uniform information system designed to report and compile a qualitative and quantitive description of the impact of the grant program. Title II: Programs of National Significance - Part A: Study on Financing of Assistive Technology Devices and Assistive Technology Services for Individuals with Disabilities - Requires the National Council on the Handicapped to: (1) conduct a study and make recommendations to the Congress and the President concerning financing and other aspects of technology-related assistance, devices, and services; and (2) appoint an advisory committee in accordance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to assist the Council in carrying out the Council's duties under this part. Directs the heads of all Federal agencies, to the extent not prohibited by law, to cooperate with the Council. Authorizes the Council, with the consent of the agency involved, to use the resources of Federal, State, local, and private agencies, with or without reimbursement. Sets forth reporting requirements. Part B: National Information and Program Referral Network - Directs the Secretary to enter into any contract or cooperative agreement necessary in order to establish a national information and program referral network to assist States regarding such technology-related assistance, if the Secretary determines it appropriate to establish the network. Requires the contracts or agreements, if any, to be entered into before the end of 30 months after appropriations are enacted. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study of the feasibility and desirability of creating such a network. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into a contract or cooperative agreement necessary to conduct the study. Provides for the content and timetable of the study. Part C: Training and Public Awareness Projects - Directs the Secretary to enter into contracts or cooperative agreements concerning training with regard to the provision of technology-related assistance. Specifies eligible activities. Directs the Secretary to make grants to assist institutions of higher education to prepare personnel for careers relating to the provision of technology-related assistance. Sets forth priorities and specifies allowed uses of funds. Directs the Secretary to make grants or enter into contracts to carry out national projects that build awareness of the importance and efficacy of assistive technology devices and services for individuals of all ages with disabilities functioning in various settings of daily life. Sets forth allowed uses of the funds. Directs the Secretary to establish priorities for the grants and to publish the priorities, along with an explanation of how the priorities were determined, in the Federal Register. Part D: Demonstration and Innovation Projects - Directs the Secretary to make grants or enter into contracts or cooperative agreements to pay all or part of the cost of demonstration and innovation projects concerning technology-related assistance for individuals with disabilities. Sets forth allowed uses of the funds. Part E: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1993. Sets forth priorities depending on specified levels of appropriations.

Bill· SS. 2549 (100th)open

Drunk Driving Prevention Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 21 June 1988

Drunk Driving Prevention Act of 1988 - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make basic and supplemental grants to States which adopt and implement certain drunk driving prevention programs. Requires States, in order to receive basic grants under this Act, to provide: (1) an expedited driver's license suspension or revocation system; and (2) a self-sustaining drunk driving enforcement program. Sets forth additional requirements for the receipt of supplemental grants, which include: (1) providing for mandatory blood alcohol content testing whenever a law enforcement officer has probable cause to believe that a driver involved in a collision that results in a death or serious bodily injury has committed an alcohol-related traffic offense; or (2) providing for an effective system for preventing drivers under the age of 21 from obtaining alcoholic beverages. Provides that no State may receive grants for more than three fiscal years. Sets forth the Federal share payable for such grants for each of the three fiscal years. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1991. Requires the Secretary to: (1) conduct a study to determine the blood alcohol concentration level at or above which an individual is deemed to be driving while under the influence; and (2) issue and publish proposed and final regulations to implement this Act.

Bill· SS. 2534 (100th)referred

College Savings Bond Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 17 June 1988

College Savings Bond Act of 1988 - Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to issue college savings bonds in the interest of encouraging long-term savings for postsecondary education. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exclude from the gross income of an individual any interest on college savings bonds to the extent these proceeds are used to pay the qualified educational expenses (tuition, fees, books, supplies, reasonable living expenses) of the taxpayer, spouse, child, or dependent at an institution of higher education, including a postsecondary vocational school. Decreases the permissible exclusion for taxpayers having adjusted gross income above $60,000, allowing no exclusion if income exceeds $80,000.

Bill· SS. 2518 (100th)open

Construction Safety and Health Improvement Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 1988

Construction Safety and Health Improvement Act of 1988 - Amends the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (the Act) to provide for construction industry accident reporting, recordkeeping, investigation, and work-suspension procedures, for a permit system for hazardous construction operations, and for health and safety planning and supervision of all construction projects. Involves professional engineer-architects in such procedures. Increases civil and criminal violations and penalties under the Act. Defines a Professional Engineer-Architect (E-A) as an individual who: (1) has attained, through engineering education and science, a thorough knowledge of mathematical, physical, and engineering sciences and principles and methods of engineering analysis and design; and (2) is registered, where permitted, as a professional engineer in the State where such work is to be performed. Defines serious injury as one requiring professional medical treatment. Defines hazard analysis as a report: (1) detailing the potential safety hazards (including structural collapses, cave-ins, fires, flooding or other water hazards, explosions, and lightning) that could occur on a construction site throughout the construction process; and (2) containing instructions and provisions for the prevention or handling of potential safety hazards. Sets forth incident reporting, recordkeeping, and investigation procedures relating to construction site accidents. Requires the E-A responsible for the worksite to: (1) immediately investigate any incident upon its occurrence; and (2) report all reportable incidents on the construction worksite to the appropriate regional office of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) by telephone or telegraph immediately after their occurrence. Defines the term "reportable incident" as one that: (1) causes serious injury or death; (2) could have caused serious injury or death, as determined by the E-A; (3) involves a structural failure that leads to a collapse of a building; or (4) involves a near-collapse of a building. Excludes from such term an incident that causes serious injury or death, if an E-A determines that the incident was not a violation of: (1) the project construction process and hazard analysis or the Project Safety and Health Program and Procedures; or (2) the Act or a standard promulgated pursuant to the Act. Sets forth the types of information which such report must specify. Requires the employer, appropriate contractor, or the owner to bar ingress to and egress from, or other interference with, an incident site until OSHA completed its investigation, on the occurrence of a reportable incident involving: (1) three or more serious injuries; (2) a fatality; (3) a life-threatening injury; (4) a structural failure that leads to the collapse of a building; or (5) the near-collapse of a building. Allows necessary medical treatment or medical transportation and rescue and recovery work to take place at such site. Prohibits any work from being done at such site until OSHA completes its investigation and certifies that it is safe for work to continue. Requires the employer, appropriate contractor, or owner to take appropriate measures, as defined by regulations promulgated by the Secretary of Labor (the Secretary), to prevent the destruction of relevant evidence. Directs OSHA to conduct an investigation of such an incident (including site inspection) as soon as practicable after it is reported. Requires the employer, appropriate contractor, or owner to grant OSHA immediate access to the incident site. Requires OSHA to ensure a full investigation. Requires such investigation to take place within 24 hours following receipt of the report unless rescue and recovery operations are in progress or OSHA determines that conditions at the site would make investigation dangerous. Directs OSHA to determine during the investigation whether the incident site is an imminent danger or to certify that work may resume at the site. Directs OSHA, following such investigation, to prepare a description of the incident (including all items specified for E-A reports) and submit it to the area office as soon as possible, but no later than one week following commencement of the investigation. Requires each employer engaged in construction work to file a report with OSHA upon completion of such work at a construction project. Requires such reports to include information on work incidents, injuries, and deaths. Requires that such information be used to: (1) determine the national incident rate average for each type of construction work; and (2) target for inspections high hazard construction operations, and employers that have a higher than average incident rate. Revises provisions for civil and criminal penalties under the Act. Raises to $25,000 the maximum civil penalty for each: (1) willful or repeated violation (currently $10,000); (2) citation for a serious violation (currently $1,000); (3) citation for a violation determined not serious (currently $1,000); and (4) failure (per day) to correct a violation (currently $1,000). Makes mandatory (currently discretionary) the assessment of a civil penalty against employers who fail to correct a violation against which a citation has been issued. Adds criminal penalties for repeated violations of specified standards, rules, or orders under the Act and for failure to correct a violation for which a citation has been issued (as well as for willful violations), if that violation or failure caused death, serious injury, or illness to any employee, or was a serious violation under new provisions covering directors, officers, or agents of a corporate employer who knowingly authorize, order, or carry out violations, failures, or refusals to comply with orders under the Act. Increases the maximum criminal penalties for such violations (after having increased their scope beyond willful violations resulting in an employee death) to $250,000 in fines and/or 20 years' imprisonment (currently $10,000 and/or six months), and, for violations committed after a first conviction, to $500,000 and/or ten years (currently $20,000 and/or one year). Increases the maximum criminal penalties for giving advance notice of an inspection (without the authority of the Secretary or a designee under the Act) to $50,000 in fines and/or one year's imprisonment (currently, $1,000 and/or six months). Increases the maximum criminal penalties for false statements, representations, or certifications under the Act to $100,000 in fines and/or one year's imprisonment (currently $10,000 and/or six months). Increases the maximum civil penalty for a violation of posting requirements to $25,000 (currently $1,000). Revises procedures for the payment of civil penalties to require that interest be charged against a person on any final order of the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission (the Commission) or the U.S. district court. Specifies such interest rate and requires accrual to begin 30 days after issuance of such order. Subjects any director, officer, or agent of a corporate employer, who knowingly authorized, ordered, or carried out the employer's violation of a safety or health standard or knowing violation or failure or refusal to comply with an order issued under the Act, to the same civil penalties, criminal fines, and imprisonment that may be imposed on a person under applicable provisions of the Act. Prohibits the use of the assets of any business entity to pay, directly or indirectly, a penalty or fine imposed on a director, officer, or agent. Establishes criminal penalties for any director, officer, or agent of any employer who discovers an occupational hazard at the workplace that could cause serious injury or illness to any employee and who fails, during the 15 day-period after such discovery (or immediately, if there is an imminent risk of bodily injury or death), to: (1) inform the Assistant Secretary in writing, unless such person has actual knowledge that the Assistant Secretary has been so informed; and (2) warn affected employees in writing, unless such person has actual knowledge that such employees have been so warned. Sets the maximum penalty for such violation at $250,000 in fines and/or ten years' imprisonment. Prohibits fines from being paid, directly or indirectly, out of the assets of any business entity on behalf of such individual. Establishes criminal penalties for any person who knowingly discriminates against any person in the terms or conditions of employment or in retention in employment or in hiring because of such person's having informed the Assistanct Secretary or warned employees of a serious concealed occupational hazard at the workplace. Sets the maximum penalty for such a violation at $250,000 in fines and/or ten years' imprisonment. Prohibits such fines from being paid, directly or indirectly, out of the assets of any business entity on behalf of such an individual. Prohibits compromise, mitigation, or settlement of any proposed civil penalty that has been: (1) issued under provisions for enforcement procedures under the Act, unless the affected employees or their representative have been given a full opportunity to participate in the process resulting in such an outcome; or (2) contested before the Commission under the Act, except with the Commission's approval. Prohibits compromise, mitigation, or settlement of any penalty assessment that has become a final order of the Commission, except with court approval. Makes each instance a separate violation, for purposes of assessing civil penalties and fines, where there are multiple instances of a violation of a standard under the Act. Considers a serious violation to exist in a place of employment if there is a substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result from a condition that exists there, or from one or more practices, means, methods, operations, or processes that have been adopted or in use there, unless the employer did not, and could not with the exercise of reasonable diligence, know of the presence of the violation. Subjects to criminal penalties, upon conviction, any person who knowingly distributes, offers for sale, introduces, or delivers in commerce any equipment (or components or accessories) for use at a construction site, if such equipment: (1) is represented as complying with the provisions of the Act or any applicable specification or regulation of the Secretary; but (2) does not so comply. Provides that no State or local law shall be superseded by any provision, order, or standard under the Act, unless such law is in conflict with it. Provides that State or local safety and health laws are not in conflict with the Act if they provide standards which are either more stringent than or not provided by the Act. Provides that nothing in the Act shall preclude State and local law enforcement agencies from engaging in criminal prosecutions in accordance with State or local laws. Establishes a permit system for certain construction operations under the Act. Requires the issuance of a permit by an E-A for an employment or place of employment prior to the commencement of any of the following covered operations: (1) the construction of trenches and excavations that are five feet or deeper and into which a person is required to descend; (2) the erection of scaffolding that is more than three stories high; (3) the demolition of any building, structure, or the dismantling of scaffolding, that is more than three stories high; (4) operations involving exposure to asbestos; (5) any other operation that OSHA determines involves an exposure of employees to death or serious bodily harm; and (6) any other operation on a specific project which involves an exposure to death or serious bodily harm. Requires a construction industry employer to obtain such a permit by submitting an application demonstrating that the employer knows, complies with, and intends to comply with, all statutes, regulations, standards, and agency directives applicable to construction work generally and to the covered operation or operations specifically, including all requirements set forth in the Act. Requires such an application to include a copy of: (1) the Project Safety and Health Program Procedures; and (2) the Construction Process Plan and Hazard Analysis. Requires only one application and one permit for two or more operations to be performed concurrently by the same employer. Allows an employer who complies with the general application demonstration requirements to obtain an annual permit in lieu of an application and permit for each covered operation of that employer. Requires the employer, before commencement of work on each new covered operation within the year covered by the annual permit, to: (1) notify the project E-A of the nature, location, and intended date of commencement of such operation; and (2) certify that the demonstration made to obtain such annual permit continues to apply to such new operation. Requires such notification to include copies of that portion of the Project Safety and Health Program and Procedures and the Construction Process Plan and Hazard Analysis that are applicable to such new operation or that have been revised since submission of the permit application. Requires permit applications to be submitted to an E-A for certification (or to OSHA in the absence of a permit certified by an E-A). Directs OSHA to establish a schedule of fees to cover the costs involved in investigating and issuing permits. Requires employers to pay such fees to the E-A or OSHA prior to permit issuance. Requires every employer issued a permit to post a copy or copies at or near each place of employment involving a covered operation (or at the nearest practicable location of such employer if the posting is impracticable at the site of an excavation). Makes specified Federal criminal law penalties applicable to false statements made with respect to permit applications and information. Requires that all construction projects be under the supervision of a professional E-A who is registered in the State where the project is located. Makes the owner of the project responsible for designating the E-A. (Considers the owner to have joint responsibility where the project contract specifically assigns such responsibility to a project or construction manager or a prime or general contractor.) Makes the E-A responsible for: (1) determining whether a project's size or complexity requires the designation of qualified representatives of the E-A to ensure that the work is performed in compliance with all provisions, orders, and standards under the Act; (2) assuring that an adequate number of qualified designated representatives (meeting requirements for being competent persons) are assigned to the project; and (3) the actions, and compliance with the Act, of the designated representatives. Makes the E-A liable to the same extent that the supervisor is liable for violations of the Act. Requires posting at each construction project, near the OSHA poster, of the name and registration number of the E-A and the names of all designated representatives. Allows, in such instances, work on the project to be performed only when the E-A's designated representative or representatives will be present on the work site. Allows work on a construction project to be performed only when the E-A is present on the site, unless the E-A determines and certifies that a designated representative will be present on the site and will be sufficient to assure that the work will be performed in compliance with all provisions, orders, and standards under this Act. Makes the owner responsible for the development and implementation on the project of Project Safety and Health Program and Procedures (project procedures). (Considers the owner to have joint responsibility where the project contract assigns such responsibility to a project or construction manager, contractor, or other person.) Requires project procedures to be job-site specific, with benchmarks for monitoring compliance with the program. Requires that specific duties and responsibilities for monitoring compliance with such procedures be assigned to the E-A or designated representatives. Prohibits certain liability claims against labor-management committee members or labor unions if such a committee participates in monitoring project procedures. Directs the E-A to review project procedures, and to certify approval after determining that they: (1) will adequately address safety and health-related conditions anticipated on the project; and (2) contain appropriate provisions for education and training of employers, supervisors, and employees in the recognition, avoidance, and prevention of unsafe and unhealthy conditions. Requires an E-A to perform or supervise, and the project E-A to verify, any required design (or alterations or modifications in the design) of equipment, structures, temporary structures, drawings, or processes. Requires the E-A to notify in writing the appropriate contractors and subcontractors performing work on the project of the existence of hazardous conditions or work practices that violate any Federal, State, or local safety and health laws or regulations, and of noncompliance with any project procedures. Directs the E-A to notify the owner and to require that work be stopped or affected employees be removed from areas where an imminent danger exists. Requires certification of designated representatives in the appropriate State. Directs the Secretary to review and approve such State certification programs and to provide such certification where such State programs are not provided. Requires every owner to prepare a construction process plan and hazard analysis for every construction project prior to commencement of work on that project. (Considers the owner to have joint responsibility where the project contract assigns such responsibility to a project or construction manager or a project or general contractor.) Requires E-A review and approval of such plan and analysis prior to commencement of work on the project. Requires such plan and analysis to include specified components. Requires the prime or general contractor to provide every other contractor and subcontractor, prior to their commencement of work on the project, with a copy of such plan and analysis. Requires every contractor and subcontractor to maintain the plan and analysis throughout its presence on the project and to make such available for review by its employees and employee representatives. Requires all contractors and subcontractors on the project to observe the construction process plan, unless the E-A certifies an exception from one or more aspects of the plan. Requires the project E-A, prior to the commencement of work on a construction project, to certify to OSHA project compliance with all requirements relating to the permit system for certain hazardous construction operations, and with the health and safety supervisory rules for all construction projects under the Act. Authorizes the Secretary, with the approval of the Advisory Committee on Construction, Safety and Health, to exempt from such requirements for all construction projects: (1) certain sizes or types of construction operations, as determined appropriate by the Secretary; and (2) other construction operations, if they are being performed according to a specific plan that includes adequate safety and health procedures approved by an E-A.

Bill· SS. 2517 (100th)referred

Social Security Work Incentives Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 1988

Social Security Work Incentives Act of 1988 - Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to reduce monthly disability benefits by 50 percent of a beneficiary's monthly earnings in excess of $85. Limits the total amount by which an individual's OASDI disability benefits may be reduced if such individual is also eligible for benefits provided under title XVI (Supplemental Security Income) (SSI) of the Act to individuals who perform substantial gainful activity despite severe medical impairment. Prohibits deductions from disability-based child insurance benefits for the recovery of prior overpayments resulting from a failure to reduce such benefits on the basis of earnings. Extends to current OASDI disability beneficiaries the rule preventing reductions in the primary insurance amount for prior recipients. Continues an individual's entitlement to disability benefits while such individual is under disabled and working status, meaning that such individual is earning enough to be considered engaged in substantial gainful activity, but would otherwise continue to satisfy eligibility requirements. Sets a four-year limit on the Medicare hospital insurance eligibility (under part A of title XVIII of the Act) of individuals who owe their eligibility to their disabled and working status under the OASDI program. Amends the Medicare program to authorize such individuals to enroll for hospital insurance benefits upon the termination of such four-year limit. Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Act to cover Medicare cost-sharing amounts for individuals of disabled and working status who are entitled to enroll for Medicare hospital insurance benefits and whose income and resources do not exceed 450 percent of the Federal poverty level and the SSI resource eligibility limit, respectively. Requires States to collect a coinsurance percentage from such individuals pursuant to a sliding scale which increases such percentage from 0 to 100 percent in reasonable increments as incomes move from 150 to 450 percent of the Federal poverty level. Extends to all recipients of disability-based child's insurance benefits the rule permitting continued entitlement to Medicaid benefits of individuals who would remain eligible for SSI benefits but for their receipt of such child's insurance benefits.

Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 339 (100th)referred

A joint resolution to designate June 16, 1988, as "Soweto Remembrance Day."

United States · United States Congress · 15 June 1988

Designates June 16, 1988, the 12th anniversary of the Soweto demonstrations and Massacre in South Africa, as Soweto Remembrance Day. Encourages Americans to participate in local activities designed to commemorate the victims of Soweto and to show solidarity with those who are fighting to end apartheid.

Bill· SS. 2488 (100th)open

Parental and Medical Leave Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 1988

Parental and Medical Leave Act of 1988 - Title I: General Requirements for Parental and Medical Leave - Entitles employees to unpaid parental and temporary medical leave. Makes this Act applicable to: (1) employers who employ 20 or more employees at any one worksite for each working day during each of 20 or more calendar workweeks in the current or preceding calendar year; and (2) employees who have been employed by such an employer for at least 12 months and for 900 hours of service during the previous 12-month period. Entitles employees to parental leave for ten workweeks during any 24-month period in cases involving the birth, adoption, or serious health condition of a child. Entitles employees to temporary medical leave for 13 workweeks during any 12-month period in cases involving inability to work because of a serious health condition. Sets forth conditions for certification for such types of leave. Provides that such leave may be without pay. Allows employees to substitute other types of paid leave to cover part of such leave period. Requires the employee, in any case in which the necessity for such leave is foreseeable based on planned medical treatment or supervision, to: (1) make a reasonable effort to schedule the treatment or supervision so as not to disrupt unduly the employer's operations; and (2) provide prior notice in a reasonable and practicable manner. Sets forth employment and benefits protections relating to such leave. Provides for administrative enforcement of this title by the Secretary of Labor, as well as enforcement by civil action. Sets forth provisions for injunctive relief, monetary relief, and attorneys' fees. Requires employers to post notice of the pertinent provisions of this title. Title II: Parental Leave and Temporary Medical Leave for Civil Service Employees - Amends specified Federal law to entitle civil service employees to: (1) parental leave for ten workweeks during any 24-month period; and (2) temporary medical leave for 13 workweeks during any 12-month period. Provides that such leave will be without pay. Allows employees to substitute other types of paid leave for part of such leave. Requires the employee, in any case in which the necessity for such leave is foreseeable based on planned medical treatment or supervision, to: (1) make a reasonable effort to schedule the treatment or supervision so as not to disrupt unduly the employer's operations; and (2) provide prior notice in a reasonable and practicable manner. Sets forth protection for job position and health insurance benefits of employees using such leave. Directs the Office of Personnel Management to prescribe regulations for administration of this title which are consistent with the regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Labor under title I of this Act. Title III: Commission on Parental and Medical Leave - Establishes the Commission on Parental and Medical Leave. Requires the Commission to report on its study of parental and medical leave to the Congress within two years after the Commission first meets. Terminates the Commission 30 days after its final report. Title IV: Miscellaneous Provisions - Sets forth the effect of this Act on existing laws and existing employment benefits. Provides that nothing in this Act shall be construed to discourage employers from adopting more generous leave policies. Directs the Secretary of Labor to prescribe regulations to carry out title I of this Act, within 60 days after the enactment of this Act.

Bill· SS. 2484 (100th)open

Research and Experimental Credit Extension and Reform Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 8 June 1988

Research and Experimental Credit Extension and Reform Act of 1988 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make permanent the income tax credit for qualified research expenditures by repealing the provisions that would terminate the credit for expenses incurred or paid after 1988. Revises the method for computing: (1) base period research expenses, adding a factor reflecting the gross national product growth rate; and (2) the tax credit, adding an alternative computation component. Applies the credit to in-house research expenses that the taxpayer pays or incurs for the principal purpose of using the research results in the active conduct of a future trade or business.

Bill· SS. 2477 (100th)open

Medical Testing Improvement Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1988

Medical Testing Improvement Act of 1988 - Amends title III (General Powers and Duties) of the Public Health Service Act to require an annual inspection of laboratories to insure compliance with standards issued by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Requires laboratories to qualify under an annual or more frequent proficiency testing program established by the Secretary, including testing for each category of tests which the laboratory is authorized to perform under its license. Directs the Secretary to carry out a system of testing the proficiency of a laboratory and its employees with regard to gynecological smears. Sets forth recordkeeping and reporting requirements. Directs the Secretary to make the results of the proficiency testing and the information reported under these provisions available under specified Federal law relating to public information. Requires the Secretary to maintain a technical and staff capacity to provide training and technical assistance to laboratories requesting such service and to laboratories which do not qualify under the proficiency testing program. Allows the proficiency testing to be performed by a private entity only if the entity meets standards established by the Centers for Disease Control. Requires the Secretary to maintain the capacity to conduct the testing. Requires laboratories to provide for direct billing of patients. Makes laboratory licenses issued by the Secretary valid for one year instead of three years. Removes the cap on the fee for issuance or renewal of licenses. Removes provisions exempting from statutes regulating laboratories those laboratories operated by physicians, osteopaths, dentists, or podiatrists solely as an adjunct to the treatment of their own patients. Directs the Secretary to make grants to a State which enacts laws providing for standards equal to or more stringent than under the provisions amended by this Act to assist the State in implementing the laws.

Bill· SS. 2449 (100th)open

Postal Service Budgetary Treatment Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 27 May 1988

Postal Service Budgetary Treatment Act of 1988 - Declares that the receipts and disbursements of the Postal Service Fund: (1) shall not be included in the totals of the Federal budget or the congressional budget; (2) shall be exempt from Federal budget limitations on expenditures and net lending; and (3) shall not be counted for purposes of calculating the Federal deficit. Makes the U.S. Postal Service an off-budget Federal entity.

Bill· SS. 2435 (100th)referred

State and Local River Conservation Act of 1988

United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1988

State and Local River Conservation Act of 1988 - Encourages States to make specified assessments with respect to the identification of rivers needing environmental protection and to develop protection programs with respect to such rivers. Requires each State to develop river protection plans designed to protect such rivers' natural and environmental values. Requires each State, in developing such plans, to make reasonable efforts, including the creation of river protection commissions, to consult with interested parties. Requires the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of State to appoint river protection commission members. Requires such commissions to assist in the development and implementation of river protection plans. Authorizes appropriations. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to make grants to States, local governments, or river commissions that intend to develop or implement programs and river protection plans. Limits Federal funds to no more than 67 percent of the cost of State programs developed under this Act. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to review State river protection programs every five years for compliance with this Act. Terminates assistance for those States which fail to comply. Provides that current State river protection efforts meeting the criteria under this Act shall be automatically eligible for river protection grants. Provides that this Act shall not affect State or Federal programs developed under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act and is intended to supplement and enhance the river protection provisions of the Electric Consumer Protection Act of 1986. Prohibits a permit, license, or exemption, or an amendment thereto, to be issued for the construction of an original hydroelectric project by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission if, at the time the application is considered by the Commission, the project would be inconsistent with a State's river protection plan. Requires the Commission to comply with specified requirements when relicensing a hydroelectric project. Requires each Federal agency conducting or regulating activities on rivers covered by this Act to conduct or regulate those activities in a manner consistent with the Electric Consumer Protection Act of 1986 and this Act.