United States · United States Congress · 16 July 1973
Emergency Rural Housing Act - Finds that there are millions of substandard dwelling units in rural areas, that existing agencies operating under existing authorities could not meet the needs of millions of the rural poor, and that there is a need for emergency action in rural housing programs. Establishes an Emergency Rural Housing Administration, the management of which shall be vested in an Administrator appointed by the President with the consent of the Senate. Makes it the duty of the Administrator to provide minimal housing facilities for eligible persons in rural areas and small communities and to do so, to the extent possible, within a five-year period. Forbids the duties and powers of the Administration to be transferred to any other department, agency, or instrumentality of the United States. Authorizes the Administrator to make loans to eligible persons to finance the acquisition of land and the construction thereon of minimal housing facilities, or to finance the acquisition and rehabilitation of existing facilities in accordance with minimum housing facilities standards. Provides that at least 50 percent of the principal amount of any loan made shall be amortized over a period of not more than forty years, shall bear interest at a rate of not less than one percent per year, and shall be secured by a first mortgage. Authorizes the Administration to make rehabilitation grants up to $3,500 to owners who occupy substandard housing and whose income is too low to repay specified types of loans. Authorizes the Administrator to acquire land and engage in the development of housing projects to be sold under the provisions of this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to provide financing to rural housing associations which meet specified requirements for the acquisition, construction, rehabilitation, operation, and maintenance of: (1) minimal housing facilities in rural areas and small communities to be rented by eligible persons; (2) water and sewer facilities for such housing; and (3) related community facilities for such housing. Provides that financing of rental units shall be made in the form of a non-interest-bearing loan. Empowers the Administrator to enter into contracts for annual assistance payments with a borrower. Provides that the Administrator may enter into area responsibility agreements with State-chartered rural housing associations. Sets forth the requirements which a local rural housing association must meet prior to receiving loans under this Act, including the chartering of such association and providing for a board of directors. Provides that when a State fails to establish an association within one year, then the Administration shall establish an organization to carry out this Act. Forbids the Administrator to require, as a condition of assistance under this Act, the relocation of any eligible person in order to engage in or to facilitate the economic development of any area. Requires the Administration to submit an annual report to the Congress and the President on the operation of this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to issue to the Secretary of the Treasury notes or other obligations in such sums as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act. Establishes the Rural Investment Fund to be utilized by the Administration for specified purposes under this Act. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1973
National Fuels and Energy Conservation Act - Establishes in the Department of the Interior the Office of Energy Conservation which shall have a Director appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Provides that the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Office, shall: (1) work with the Council on Environmental Quality in developing new energy conservation initiatives for the Federal Government; (2) cooperate with private industry in developing energy conversation programs in industry; and (3) provide assistance to State governments in developing State energy conservation programs. Authorizes appropriations of $8,000,000 for each of the three fiscal years following enactment of this Act for the Secretary of Commerce to establish within the National Bureau of Standards an energy conservation research and development program to stimulate new or improved manufacturing and industrial processes, better building construction, materials, and techniques. Authorizes $4,000,000 for each of the three years following enactment for the Secretary of the Interior to establish development and testing centers for more efficient equipment for transmission of electrical energy. Directs the Administrator of the General Services Administration to use equipment, construction methods and management policies which make the maximum efficient use of energy in design, construction and operation of Federal buildings. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to develop improved design, lighting, and insulation standards to promote efficient energy use in residential, commercial and industrial buildings. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish and publish standards of efficiency for electrical appliances and equipment. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to promulgate standards for labeling major electrical appliances and equipment so that shoppers may compare the efficiency of energy usage of such appliances and equipment. Prohibits manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers and retailers of electrical appliances and equipment from: (1) selling in interstate commerce any electrical appliance or equipment which is not labeled according to the FTC standard; and (2) advertising any electrical appliance or equipment unless the advertisement contains a statement in accord with the labeling standard. Establishes a $5,000 civil penalty for each violation of such selling and advertising requirements. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to prepare proposed minimum standards for average degree of fuel use for motor vehicles, and such standards shall be designed to achieve a substantial increase in degree of fuel use by motor vehicles not in compliance with such standards within three years from the enactment of such standards by Congress, with all motor vehicles being required to meet such standards within five years. Requires manufacturers of motor vehicles to conduct tests and make such reports as the Secretary may require for the purpose of establishing such standards. Requires that all motor vehicles sold or manufactured in the United States shall bear a label stating in nontechnical language the degree of fuel use, and prohibits the advertisement of such vehicles unless the advertisement states the degree of fuel use. Establishes a $1,000 civil penalty for offering an improperly labeled vehicle for sale and a $50,000 penalty for each advertisement not disclosing degree of fuel use. Directs the Federal Power Commission to promulgate regulations requiring electric and gas public utilities to submit to the Commission annual reports on energy conservation policies. Directs each agency of the Federal Government engaged in the sale of electrical energy to submit to the Congress a study of the impact of the rate structure of such agency on the consumption and conservation of energy. Requires the Federal Trade Commission to promulgate regulations for advertising and promotion of energy and fuels which: (1) shall be designed to prohibit advertising or promotion of energy or fuels by any person or corporation when such person or corporation is unwilling or unable to meet customers' requirements for energy or fuel; and (2) shall generally prohibit advertising and promotion which are calculated or likely to result in unnecessary energy consumption. Establishes a $50,000 civil penalty for each violation of such advertising and promotion regulations. Directs the Council on Environmental Quality to submit to the Congress: (1) a report evaluating the impact on fuel consumption of national and regional systems of freight transportation; and (2) a study of the relationships between motor vehicle sizes, the needs of motor vehicle users, and the public interest. Authorizes for each fiscal year such additional sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of the Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1973
Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to make periodic interest reduction payments on behalf of public and private nonprofit corporations in purchasing existing housing, converting such housing into dwelling units suitable for occupancy by elderly families, and reducing rentals for elderly families of low and moderate income. Requires that such corporations, as a condition for receiving the benefits of interest reduction payments, shall: (1) provide, through their own programs or arrangements with other community programs, a comprehensive system of supportive services for the elderly which may include such services as counseling homemaker service, transportation, meals-on-wheels, and others; and (2) operate their projects in accordance with such tenant eligibility and rent requirements as the Secretary may prescribe. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. Requires the Secretary to give preference to those families whose incomes are within the lowest practicable limits for obtaining rental accomodations in public housing. Requires the Secretary to transfer to the Secretary of Agriculture from time to time a reasonable portion of the interest reduction authority for use in rural areas and small towns.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1973
Housing Security Act - Establishes in the Department of Housing and Urban Development an Office of Security which shall: (1) serve as a clearinghouse for information relating to the physical security of federally and related housing projects; and (2) make grants and enter into contracts with sponsors of federally related multifamily housing projects to finance planning and development of a security program for the project, including capital improvements and maintenance of a security force. Authorizes such appropriations as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of the Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1973
Establises the National Elderly Housing Loan Fund in the U.S. Treasury. Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to use the amounts in such fund for the provision of housing for elderly or handicapped families by making direct mortgage loans to approved sponsors or public agencies. Authorizes the Secretary to issue notes or other obligations in an aggregate amount of not to exceed $50,000,000 to the Secretary of the Treasury to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1973
Provides that three members of the Senate Committee on Labor and Public Welfare shall be ex-officio members of the Committee on Appropriations when there is consideration of the annual appropriation bill for the Department of Labor, the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, the National Science Foundation, the Office of Economic Opportunity, the National Foundation on the Arts and the Humanities, and health and safety in mines.
United States · United States Congress · 29 June 1973
Provides, under Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act, for a ten-year term for the appointment of the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
United States · United States Congress · 29 June 1973
Federal Mine Safety and Health Amendments - Title I: Amendments to the General Provisions of the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969 - Sets forth the definition of "mine" under this Act. Transfers the functions of the Secretary of the Interior in developing health and safety standards to the Secretary of Labor. Title II: Mine Safety and Health Standard Amendments - Establishes the duty of: (1) each mine operator and miner to comply with the health and safety standards of this Act, and (2) each mine operator to furnish a place of employment free from recognized hazards causing or likely to cause death or physical harm. Provides that the Secretary may by rule promulgate, modify, or revoke any health and safety standard. Provides that the Secretary may request the recommendations of an advisory committee whenever he determines that a rule should be promulgated. Sets forth the time period for the reporting of any recommendations by the Committee. Prescribes procedures for publication and public hearings with respect to any rules proposed by the Secretary, prior to its issuance. Requires the Secretary, in promulgating standards, to set the standard which assures that miners will not suffer impairment of health, functional capacity, or diminished life expectancy even if regularly exposed to the hazards throughout their working lives. Directs the Secretary to consider (1) the latest available scientific data in the field; (2) the feasibility of the standards; and (3) experience gained under this and other health and safety statutes. Provides that any standard promulgated must prescribe the use of labels or other warnings necessary to ensure that miners are apprised of all hazards to which they are exposed, relevant symptoms and appropriate emergency treatment and proper conditions and precautions of safe use or exposure. Sets forth additional factors which must be prescribed in specified instances. Requires that no safety or health standard promulgated under this Act shall reduce the protection afforded miners below that provided by any safety or health standard previously in effect. States that where the Secretary determines that miners are potentially subjected to physical or mental impairment from exposure to toxic substances, he may promulgate an emergency standard. Sets forth the procedures for the promulgation of such emergency standard. Allows any operator to apply to the Secretary for a temporary order permitting limited non-compliance with a standard. Specifies the circumstances under which such order shall be originally granted and renewed. Allows an operator to apply for a variance from a standard. Permits persons adversely affected by a standard to challenge its validity, within 60 days of its promulgation, in the appropriate U.S. Court of Appeals. Empowers the Secretary to appoint advisory committees to assist him in his standard setting functions and advise him on other health and safety matters. Sets forth the composition and compensation of the members of any such committee. Authorizes the Secretary, or the Secretary of HEW,: (1) to enter any mine subject to this Act and (2) to make reasonable inspections and investigations and to question privately employers, owners, operators, agents, or employees. Requires inspections of underground mines at least four times a year. States that no advance notice of inspections shall be given. Sets forth rules regarding the maintenance of records by operators with regard to work-related deaths, injuries, illness, miner exposure to toxic substances, and all accidents, except specified unintentional roof falls. Provides that if any miner or their representative believes that a standard violation exists that threatens physical harm or that an imminent danger exists, he may request an inspection by the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to provide a minimum of one spot inspection of all or part of a mine during every 5 working days at irregular intervals, if the mine contains some especially hazardous conditions. Provides that if, upon inspection or investigation, the Secretary or his representative believes an operator has violated any standard, he shall issue a citation to the operator, describing the nature of the violation, and fixing a reasonable time for the violation's abatement. Prescribes rules governing (1) gross violations of standards; (2) follow-up inspections; and (3) withdrawal from the area of unabated violations of all but specified personnel. Requires the Secretary to notify within a reasonable time an operator issued a citation of any penalty to be assessed, and that the operator has 15 working days to notify the Secretary that he wishes to contest the citation or proposed penalty. Prohibits discharging, discriminating against, or interfering with the exercise of statutory rights by any mine employee or applicant for employment because he filed a complaint or instituted or caused to be instituted any proceeding under or related to this Act or testified or is about to testify in any such for himself or others. Provides that if an operator notifies the Secretary that he intends to contest a citation, the Secretary shall immediately so advise the Commission, which must then provide an opportunity for a hearing and issue an order affirming, modifying, or vacating the Secretary's order. Permits any person adversely affected or aggrieved by an order of the Commission to obtain review of such order in any appropriate U.S. Court of Appeals and specifies the procedures to be followed after a petition for review is filed. Provides procedures for counteracting dangerous conditions, including: (1) issuance of withdrawal orders barring all except specified persons from an area, and (2) issuance of notices where less than imminent dangers exist and investigations into such conditions. Authorizes the Secretary to institute civil action for relief, including a permanent or temporary injunction in any appropriate United States district court whenever an operator or his agent: (a) violates or does not comply with any order or decision issued under this Act, (b) hinders the Secretary or the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare or their representatives in carrying out the provisions of the Act, (c) refuses to admit such representatives to the mine, (d) refuses to permit the inspection of the mine, or the investigation of an accident or occupational disease related to such mine, (e) refuses to furnish any information or report requested by the Secretary or the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare in furtherance of the Act's provisions, or (f) refuses to permit access to and copying of such records as the Secretary or the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare determines necessary in carrying out provisions of the Act. Provides that a civil penalty of up to $10,000 shall be assessed for each violation of any standard, rule, order or regulation promulgated pursuant to this Act. Provides that any operator who willfully violates any standard shall upon conviction be punished by a fine of not more than $25,000 or imprisonment for not more than 1 year, or both. Sets forth additional penalties for specified violations of this Act. Provides that if a mine is closed by an order issued under this Act, all miners working during the shift when the order was issued who are idled shall be entitled to full compensation at their regular rates of pay for the period they are idled, but not more than the balance of the shift. Authorizes the Secretary to administer this Act through the Mine Safety and Health Administration. Authorizes the appropriations of any moneys in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated that may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this title. Title III: Relationship to Occupational Safety and Health Program - Provides that nothing in this Act applies the provisions of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1972 to the working conditions in the mines. Increases the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission from 3 to 5 members appointed by the President with the Senate's consent. Sets forth the duties and procedure for operation of the Commission. Directs the Commission to prescribe rules of procedures for its review of decisions in cases under this Act and the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 which shall meet specified standards for review. Authorizes the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to conduct research related to the development of safety and health standards under this Act and to perform all functions with respect to mines that it performs with respect to employments subject to the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. Provides that the Secretary, in carrying out his functions under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, shall include accurate statistics on the work injuries and illness occurring in the mines. States that nothing in this Act prohibits the application of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 to sand and gravel mines. Title IV: Miscellaneous Provisions - Transfers the functions of the Secretary of the Interior under the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969, and the Federal Metallic and Nonmetallic Mine Safety Act of 1966 to the Secretary of Labor, except those expressly transferred to the Commission by this Act. Provides that the mandatory and advisory standards relating to mines, which are in effect on the date of enactment of this Act, shall remain in effect as mandatory standards under Title I of this Act until the Secretary issues new or revised standards. Establishes in the Labor Department, a Mine Administration for Safety and Health to be headed by an Administrator appointed by the President, with the Senate's advice and consent. Provides that research activities relating to mine health will be carried out by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare through the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, and the Secretary's research activities relating to safety are extended to all mines now covered by this Act. Extends to all mines covered by this Act, the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare's authorization to conduct studies and research involving the protection of life and prevention of diseases relating to certain non-miners who work with or around mine products. Prescribes that any State law or regulation providing for health and safety standards applicable to any mine now covered by this Act and that (1) is more stringent than Federal law, or (2) applies to any area not covered by Federal law, shall not be held to be in conflict with this Act. Repeals the Federal Metal and Nonmetallic Mine Safety Act of 1966.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 1973
National Reading Improvement Act - Declares it to be the purpose of this Act to strengthen the reading instruction programs in the school systems of the nation. Directs the Commissioner of Education to contract with the States to encourage and assist elementary and secondary school systems in developing reading programs. Authorizes appropriations for this purpose of $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, $200,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, and $250,000,000 for fiscal year 1976. Provides for the allotment of such funds to the States. Requires that the Commissioner shall establish standards for identifying the school-age population with reading deficiencies in each State. Provides that each contract entered into contain specified assurances. Requires the State agency to: (1) prepare a ten-year plan, (2) identify those elementary and secondary school children with reading deficiencies and give highest priority to the educational agencies with the highest concentration of such children; and (3) provide assurance that Federal funds made available under this title will be used to supplement State and local school funds. Sets forth the requirements which sub-contract applications with local education agencies must meet, including: (1) remedial reading instruction; (2) preservice training programs for teaching personnel; (3) parent participation in the program; (4) periodic testing of reading achievement; (5) bilingual methods where necessary; and (6) equitable participation by children in nonprofit private and public schools. Authorizes to be appropriated $50,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, $60,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, and $65,000,000 for fiscal year 1976, for the purposes of making grants to institutions of higher education for assistance in improving undergraduate instruction in the teaching of reading and programs for solving reading problems. Establishes in the Office of Education an Office for the improvement of Reading Programs. Sets forth the responsibilities of such Office. Directs the National Institute of Education to conduct research on the use of educational technology in reading programs. Authorizes to be appropriated to the National Institute of Education $5,000,000 for this purpose. Authorizes specified additional appropriations for achieving the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 1973
National Tay-Sachs Disease Screening and Counseling Act - Provides that it is the purpose of this Act to establish a national program, under the Public Health Service Act, for voluntary Tay-Sachs disease screening and counseling. Authorizes appropriations of $2,500,000 for fiscal year 1974 for the making of grants to public and nonprofit entities to establish and operate such screening programs. Sets forth the procedure for applications for and administration of such grants.
United States · United States Congress · 26 June 1973
National Research Service Award Act - Declares it to be the purpose of this Act, by consolidating existing research training and fellowship authorities into a single National Research Service Awards Authority, to increase the capability of the National Institutes of Health and the National Institute of Mental Health to carry out their responsibility of maintaining a superior national program of research into physical and mental diseases. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare to provide, under the Public Health Service Act, National Research Service Awards in the following manner: (1) biomedical and behavioral research at the National Institutes of Health and the National Institute of Mental Health; (2) training at such institutes of individuals to undertake research in specified matters (3) biomedical research at non-Federal public and at nonprofit private institutions; and (4) training at such public and private institutions of individuals to undertake such research. Provides that applicants for National Research Service Awards must be sponsored by the institution at which training shall be carried out. Limits the period of any National Research Service Award to three years in the aggregate, unless the Secretary should waive such limit. Requires that each individual who receives a National Research Service Award shall (1) engage in health research or teaching, or (2) if authorized, serve as a member of the National Health Service Corps; serve in his specialty in private practice in an area designated by the Secretary as requiring that specialty; or serve in his specialty as a member of a nonprofit prepaid group practice authorized for reimbursement under title XVIII (Health Insurance for the Aged) of the Social Security Act, for a specified period. Authorizes to be appropriated to carry out the provisions of this section $207,947,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1974. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to conduct studies to: (1) establish the Nation's overall need for biomedical research personnel; (2) assess current training programs available for the training of biomedical research personnel; and (3) identify the kinds of research positions available to and held by individuals completing such programs.
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1973
Provides, under the Securities and Exchange Act, that no broker or dealer shall make use of the mails or of any instrumentality of interstate commerce to effect any transaction in, or induce the purchase or sale of any security (other than an exempted security or commercial paper, bankers' acceptances, or commercial bills) in contravention of such rules and regulations as the Securities Exchange Commission shall prescribe as necessary in the public interest, or for the protection of investors or for the development of an integrated national system for the prompt and accurate processing and settlement of securities transactions to regulate the time and method of making settlements, payments, and deliveries and of opening, maintaining, and closing accounts. Makes it unlawful for any person, directly or indirectly, to make use of the mails or any means or instrumentality of interstate commerce to perform the function of a clearing agency with respect to any security unless it is registered under the Act. Provides that applications for such registration shall contain the rules of such agency together with such other information as the Securities and Exchange Commission may by rule require. Prescribes requirements to be met by clearing agencies for eligibility for registration and rule changes. Provides that if any registered clearing agency takes any disciplinary action against any participant therein, such action shall be subject to review by the appropriate regulatory agency. Sets forth guidelines governing such proceedings, and permits the regulatory agency after full review to suspend the clearing agency for a violation of the Act or any regulations thereunder. Directs the Commission to, on or before December 31, 1976, take such steps as are within its power to bring about the elimination of the negotiable stock certificate as a means of settlement among brokers or dealers of transactions consummated on national securities exchanges or by means of the mails or other means or instrumentalities of interstate commerce. Provides that no person shall make use of the mails or of any means or instrumentality of interstate commerce in order to perform the function of a transfer agency with respect to any security unless such person is registered in accordance with the Act. Sets forth the requirements for such registration. Provides that compliance with the requirements of this part shall be enforced under the Federal Deposit Insurance Act by the appropriate regulatory agencies other than the Securities and Exchange Commission. Authorizes the Commission, after appropriate notice and opportunity for hearing, to censure, bar, suspend, or place limitations upon any transfer agent. Provides that it shall be unlawful for an issuer who is registered under the Act, by use of any means or instrumentality of interstate commerce, or of the mails, to issue any securities whose form or format contravenes such rules and regulations as the Commission may prescribe as necessary or appropriate for the prompt and accurate processing of transactions in such securities. Requires a study and investigation to be made of the practice of registration of securities other than in the name of the beneficial owner and to determine whether such registration is consistent with the policies and purposes of the Securities and Exchanges Act, and if consistent whether steps can be taken to facilitate communications between corporations and their shareholders while at the same time retaining the benefits of such registration. Prohibits a State from taxing the beneficial or record ownership of securities effected through a registered clearing agency unless otherwise taxable by such State if the facilities of such agency were not physically located in the taxing State.
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1973
Authorizes the President, under the Foreign Assistance Act, to provide assistance for the purpose of aiding South Vietnamese children through (1) governmental agencies of South Vietnam; (2) day care centers, orphanages, and health and welfare programs; and (3) adoption by United States citizens of South Vietnamese children. Allocates specified amounts of funds appropriated under the Foreign Assistance Act for the purpose carrying out this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 June 1973
National Workers' Compensation Standards Act - States that commencing on January 1, 1975, and during each three-calendar-year period thereafter, unless the workers' compensation law of a State has been determined by the Secretary of Labor during the calendar year preceding such three-year period to meet the minimum standards prescribed in or pursuant to this Act during such three-year period, the provisions of the Longshoremen's and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act shall apply in accordance with the provisions of this Act within such State. Sets forth the minimum standards which each State workers' compensation law shall meet in order to satisfy the requirements of this Act. States that during any period when the Longshoremen's and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act is applicable within a State pursuant to this Act: (1) it shall apply to all employers within the State with respect to the injury or death of any employee of such employer irrespective of the place where the injury or death occurred, and (2) if any of the minimum standards specified in this Act would require higher compensation or death benefits to be paid than would be required under the Longshoremen's and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act then such standard shall apply within such State during such period. Directs, within ninety days of enactment of this Act, the Secretary to publish in the Federal Register and furnish to the Governor of each State detailed criteria required in the application for State plans for workers' compensation programs. Sets forth the criteria for qualified plans. Provides that whenever a State is subject to the provisions of the Longshoremen's and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act as prescribed in this Act, the Secretary, in administering that Act, shall endeavor to enter into an agreement with the State Workers' compensation agency under which the administration of that Act within such State may be carried out by the State workers' compensation agency under the general supervision and direction of the Secretary in accordance with such rules and regulations as the Secretary may prescribe. Sets forth the manner through which the Secretary may by rule promulgate any new or improved minimum workers' compensation standard. Provides that any State, any employer or association of employers in a State, or any employee or organization of employees within a State, may obtain judicial review of decisions by the Secretary under this Act by filing in the United States court of appeals in the circuit in which the State is located within thirty days following receipt of notice of the Secretary's decision a petition to review in whole or in part the decision of the Secretary. Authorizes the Secretary, during the fiscal year ending June 30, 1974, and the two succeeding fiscal years, to make grants to the States which have designated a State agency under this Act to assist them: (1) in identifying thier needs and responsibilities in the area of workers' compensation, (2) in developing State plans under this Act, or (3) in developing plans for establishing systems for the collection of information concerning workers' compensation, increasing the expertise and enforcement capabilities of their personnel engaged in workers' compensation programs, or otherwise improving the administration and enforcement of State workers' compensation laws, consistent with the objectives of this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated during fiscal year 1974 and each of the next two fiscal years the sum of $15,000,000 for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this Act, which shall remain available until expended. Establishes the Federal Workers' Compensation Advisory Commission, to be composed of five members, appointed by the President by and with the advice of the Senate. Sets forth the duties and functions of such a Commission. States that the Commission shall transmit to the President and to the Congress, not later than February 1 of each year, a report of its activities, together with such recommendations as it deems advisable in the field of workers' compensation programs. Provides that in order to further the purpose of this Act, the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, shall develop and maintain an effective program of collection, compilation, and analysis of workers' compensation statistics. Authorizes to be appriated to carry out this Act for each fiscal year such sums as the Congress shall deem necessary.
United States · United States Congress · 12 June 1973
Endangered Species Conservation Act - States that the purposes of this Act are to provide a program for the conservation, protection, restoration, or propagation of species and subspecies of fish and wildlife and flora that are threatened with extinction, or are likely within the foreseeable future to become threatened with extinction. Sets forth the procedure by which the Secretaries of Interior and Agriculture shall determine if a species or subspecies of fish or wildlife or flora shall be regarded as an endangered species. Lists the following factors to be considered in determining if a species or subspecies is threatened with extinction will likely become threatened with extinction: (1) the present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range; (2) overutilization for commercial, sporting, scientific, or educational purposes; (3) disease or predation; (4) the inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms; or (5) other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence. Provides that the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register, not less than annually, a list by scientific and common names or species and subspecies determined to be endangered. Provides that the Secretary may, from time to time, by regulation, revise such list. Provides that the Secretary shall utilize the land acquisition and other authorities of the Migratory Bird Conservation Act, as amended, the Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956, as amended, and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, as appropriate, to carry out a program in the United States of conserving, protecting, restoring, or propagating those species and subspecies of fish and wildlife that he lists as endangered species pursuant to this Act. Provides that, in carrying out the program authorized by this Act, the Secretary shall cooperate to the maximum extent practicable with the several States. States that such cooperation shall include consultation before the acquisition of any land for the purpose of conserving, protecting, restoring, or propagating any endangered species. Authorizes the Secretary to delegate to a State the authority to regulate the taking by any person of endangered species or subspecies when he determines that such State maintains an adequate and active endangered species program consistent with the policies and purposes of this Act. Provides that any person who: (1) imports into or exports from the United States, receives or causes to be so imported, received, or exported; or (2) takes or causes to be taken within the United States, the territorial sea of the United States, Federal lands, or upon the high seas; or (3) ships, carries, or receives by any means in interstate commerce any species or subspecies which is listed as an endangered species, shall be punished in accordance with the provisions of this Act. Allows exceptions from the prohibitions contained in this Act to permit the taking of an endangered species for scientific purposes and for the propagation of such fish and wildlife in captivity for preservation purposes. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for violations of the provisions of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to promulgate such regulations as may be appropriate to carry out the pruposes of this Act. Provides that any person who engages in business as an importer of fish and wildlife must register with the Secretary of the Treasury his name and address of each place of business at which, and all trade names under which, he conducts such business. Requires each such person to keep such records as will fully and correctly disclose each importation of fish and wildlife made by him and the subsequent disposition of such fish and wildlife. States that the Secretary, through the Secretary of State, shall seek the convening of an international ministerial meeting on fish and wildlife prior to July 1, 1973, to assure the worldwide conservation of endangered species and to avoid unnecessary harm to affected United States industries. Provides that, whenever the Secretary determines that a species of fish or wildlife is an endangered species, the Secretary of Agriculture may use all authorities available to him with respect to research, investigations, conservation, protection, control and management of such endangered species.
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1973
Makes it the sense of the Senate that the President is urged and requested to submit proposals to the Congress, beginning with extending the coverage provided under the supplementary medical insurance program of part B of Medicare to cover essential out-of-hospital prescription drugs. Requests the President to submit additional recommendations to the Congress for legislation to strengthen and improve Medicare coverage by September 1, 1973. Provides that the recommendation of the President to increase out-of-pocket payments for the aged and disabled under Medicare should be withdrawn.
United States · United States Congress · 31 May 1973
Provides that Federal agencies keep standing congressional committees fully and currently informed of matters relating to that agency which are within the jurisdiction of such committee.
United States · United States Congress · 30 May 1973
Authorizes the President to call a White House Conference on the Handicapped within two years of enactment in order to develop recommendations for further research and action in the field of the handicapped, and to further the policies set forth in this joint resolution. Provides that such conference shall be planned and conducted under the direction of the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare with the cooperation and assistance of such other Federal departments and agencies, including the assignment of personnel, as may be appropriate. Requires a final report of the White House Conference on the Handicapped to be submitted to the President not later than 120 days following the date on which the conference is called, and the findings and recommendations included therein to be made available immediately to the public. Requires the Secretary, within 90 days after the submission of such report, to transmit to the President and the Congress his recommendations for the administrative action and legislation necessary to implement the recommendations contained in such report. Gives the Secretary administrative powers to carry out this Resolution. Provides that in carrying out his functions under this joint resolution, the Secretary shall employ handicapped persons. Directs the Secretary to establish an Advisory Committee on the White House Conference on the Handicapped composed of 28 members, of whom not less than 10 shall be handicapped or parents of handicapped persons. Provides that such Advisory Committee shall cease to exist 90 days after the submission of the final report required by this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated $2,000,000 to carry out this joint resolution.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1973
Establishes within the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture a Youth Conservation Corps. Specifies that the Corps shall consist of young men and women between the ages of 15 and 19 whom the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture may employ without regard to civil service classification regulations for the purpose of developing, preserving, and maintaining the lands and waters of the U.S. Outlines the functions of the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture under this Act. Provides for a program of grants to the States to assist in meeting the costs of this Act. Requires the Secretary of the Interior and Agriculture to prepare a joint report to be annually submitted to the President and Congress. Authorizes to be appropriated the sum of $150,000,000 for each fiscal year to carry out the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1973
Rehabilitation Act - Declares that it is the purpose of this Act to provide a statutory basis for the establishment of a Rehabilitation Services Administration and to authorize specified programs. Establishes within the Department of Health, Education and Welfare a Rehabilitation Services Administration which shall be administered by a Commissioner. Provides that the Commissioner shall carry out and administer all programs and direct the performance of all services for which authority is provided to the Secretary of HEW under this Act. Authorizes the inclusion of appropriations under this Act in the appropriation Act for the fiscal year preceding the fiscal year for which they are available for obligation. Provides that where funds are provided for a single project by more than one Federal agency to an agency or organization assisted under this Act, the Federal agency principally involved may be designated to act for all in administering such funds, pursuant to regulations prescribed by the President. Sets forth definitions of terms used in this Act. Title I: Vocational Rehabilitation Services - Part A: General Provisions - Authorizes to be appropriated in order to make grants to States under part B of this title $590,000,000 for fiscal year 1973; $610,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, and $640,000,000 for fiscal year 1975. Authorizes to be appropriated for the purpose of making grants to States and public and nonprofit agencies to assist them in meeting the costs of projects to initiate or expand services to handicapped individuals $35,860,000 for fiscal year 1973. $37,000,000 for fiscal year 1974; and $39,000,000 for fiscal year 1975. Sets forth conditions which shall be included in a State plan for vocational and comprehensive rehabilitation services submitted to the Commissioner for approval under this title. Provides for judicial review of an adverse decision of the Commissioner with respect to a State plan submitted for approval under this title. Part B: Basic Vocational and Comprehensive Rehabiliation Services - Provides for the allocation of the funds appropriated under Part A for Part B to the several States. States that the allocation to any State shall not be less than l/4 of 1 percent of the amount appropriated, or $2,000,000, whichever is greater. Provides that for each fiscal year the Commissioner shall pay to each State from each State's allotment an amount equal to the Federal share of the cost of vocational rehabilitation services under an approved State plan. States that this payment shall not exceed such State's allocation under this part. Requires the Commissioner to set aside funds in an amount between $500,000 and $l,500,000 for fiscal year 1973, and up to $2,500,000 but no less than $1,000,000 annually for fiscal years 1974-1975, to establish a system of client assistance pilot projects to advise clients of benefits available under this Act. Part C: Innovation and Expansion Grants - Entitles States to grants for special programs to expand vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with the most severe handicaps, particularly those who are poor and responsibility for whose treatment is shared by the State. Sets forth provisions for allotments among the States. Directs the Commissioner to conduct a comprehsensive study, which may include a research and demonstration project of the feasibility of methods designed to prepare and assist individuals with the most severe handicaps for entry into programs under this Act. States that the commissioner shall report the findings of the study, research, and demonstrations to the Congress and to the President together with such recommendations for legislative or other action. Title II: Research and Training - Provides that the Commissioner may make grants to, and contracts with, State public and nonprofit organizations to pay part of the cost of research projects which bear directly on the provision of services under this Act. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to pay all or part of the cost of specialized activities including the establishment and support of Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers and Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers. Authorizes the Secretary to pay part of the cost of projects for training, traineeships, and related activities designed to assist in increasing the numbers of personnel trained in providing vocational and comprehensive rehabilitation services. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the purpose of this title. Title III: Special Federal Responsibilities - Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants and contracts to assist in meeting the costs of construction of public or nonprofit rehabilitation facilities, initial staffing, and planning assistance. Authorizes to be appropriated for such grants and contracts $550,000 for fiscal year 1973, $500,000 for fiscal year 1974, and $500,000 for fiscal year 1975. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to States and public or nonprofit organizations and agencies to pay up to 90 percent of the cost of projects for providing vocational training services to handicapped individuals, especially those with the most severe handicaps, in public or nonprofit rehabilitation facilities. Authorizes to be appropriated for such grants and contracts $10,300,000 for fiscal year 1973, $10,300,000 for fiscal year $l0,300,000 for fiscal year 1974, and $12,000,000 for fiscal year 1975. Authorizes the Commissioner to make grants to States and public or nonprofit agencies and organizations for paying part of the cost of special projects and demonstrations: (1) for establishing facilities and providing services which hold promise of expanding or otherwise improving rehabilitation services to handicapped individuals, especially those with the most severe handicaps; and (2) for applying new types or patterns of services or devices. Allows the Commissioner to make grants to pay up to 90 percent of the cost of projects or demonstrations for the provision of vocational or comprehensive rehabilitation services to handicapped individuals who are migratory agricultrual workers or seasonal farmworkers, and to members of their families who are with them. Provides that the Commissioner may make contracts or jointly finance cooperative arrangements with employers and organizations for the establishment of projects designed to prepare handicapped individuals for gainful and suitable employment in the competitive labor market under which such handicapped individuals are provided training and employment in a realistic work setting and such other services as may be necessary for such individuals to continue to engage in such employment. Authorizes the Commissioner to provide technical assistance to rehabilitation facilities, and for the purpose of removal of architectural and transportation barriers, to any public or nonprofit agency, institution, organization or facility. Authorizes to be appropriated, for the purpose of making grants for special projects and demonstrations, as necessary $12,200,000 for fiscal year 1973, $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1974 and $17,500,000 for fiscal year 1975. Authorizes to be appropriated a total of $1,200,000 for construction for fiscal years 1973-1975, and such sums as necessary for operations for fiscal years 1973-1975 establishing and operating a National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults. Title IV: Administration and Program and Project Evaluation - Provides that, in carrying out his duties under this Act, the Commissioner shall: (1) cooperate with, and render technical assistance to, States in matters relating to the rehabilitation of handicapped individuals; (2) provide short-term training and instruction in technical matters relating to vocational and comprehensive rehabilitation services; and (3) disseminate information relating to vocational and comprehensive rehabilitation services, and otherwise promote the cause of the rehabilitation of handicapped individuals and their greater utilization in gainful and suitable employment. Directs the Secretary to measure and evaluate the impact of all programs authorized by this Act. Title V: Miscellaneous - Provides that the Vocational Rehabilitation Act is repealed ninety days after the date of enactment of this Act. Establishes an Interagency Committee on Handicapped Employees to insure the adequacy of hiring, placement, and advancement practices with respect to handicapped individuals by each department, agency, and instrumentality of the executive branch of Government. Establishes an Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board to investigate and examine alternative approaches to the architectural, transportation, and attitudinal barriers confronting handicapped individuals. Authorizes such appropriations as necessary for fiscal years 1973-1975 to carry out the duties and functions of the Board.
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 1973
Provides that the provisions of the Strategic and Critical Materials Stock Piling Act concerning the importation of chrome shall not apply to prohibitions or regulations issued under the United Nations Participation Act of 1954. (Amends 22 U.S.C. 287e(a))
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 1973
Fair Labor Standards Amendments - Includes in the definition of "employer" under the Fair Labor Standards Act the United States and any State or political subdivision of a State. Includes under the definition of "employee" any individual employed in domestic service, except babysitters. Brings under the mainland minimum wage the employees of hotels, motels, and restaurants in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. (Amends 29 U.S.C. 205, 208) Establishes, for employees in activities covered by the Act prior to the 1966 amendments, an hourly minimum wage of $2 per hour during the first two years from the effective date of this Act, and $2.20 per hour thereafter. Establishes for employees in agriculture an hourly minimum wage of $1.60 during the first year from the effective date of this Act, $1.80 during the second year from the effective date of this Act, $2 during the third year from the effective date of this Act, and $2.20 thereafter. Requires that covered employees in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands making less than $0.80 per hour under the most recent wage order be paid not less than $1. per hour. Provides that thereafter their wages are increased by $0.20 per hour each year until parity is achieved with the mainland minimum. Eliminates clauses in the Fair Labor Standards Act excluding certain linen supply establishments from full coverage. (Amends 29 U.S.C. 206) Eliminates those provisions of the Act which provide partial overtime exemptions in agricultural processing industries. Provides for overtime averaging over a twenty-eight day period and a phase down from forty-eight to forty hours per week without a time-and-a-half penalty for State and local government employees engaged in fire protection and law enforcement activities, including security personnel in correctional institutions. Exempts voluntary charter activities from hours worked in local transit for purposes of calculating overtime. (Amends 29 U.S.C. 207) Permits the Secretary of Labor to require employers to obtain proof of age from any employee in order to carry out the objectives of the child labor provisions of the Act. (Amends 29 U.S.C. 212) Brings executive, administrative, and professional employees under the equal pay provison of the law. Prohibits employment in agriculture outside of school hours for all children under the age of twelve, except on a farm owned or operated by a parent. (Amends 29 U.S.C. 207) Prevents unwarranted displacement of full-time employees by student workers in retail and service establishments that are brought within the coverage of the Act by these amendments. Provides for student certificates for educational institutions. (Amends 29 U.S.C. 214) Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to bring suit to recover unpaid minimum wages or overtime compensation and an equal amount of liquidated damages without requiring a written request from employee. Provides for a civil penalty of up to $1,000 for a violation of the provisions of the Act relating to child labor. (Amends 29 U.S.C.)
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1973
American Folklife Preservation Act - Creates an American Folklife Center in the Library of Congress. Provides that the Center shall be subject to the supervision and direction of a Board of Trustees. Provides that such Board shall be composed of four members appointed by the President eight members appointed by the Librarian of Congress the Librarian of Congress ex officio and the Director of the Center ex officio. Authorizes the Center to establish and implement a program of contracts, grants, revitalize and scholarships to preserve, protect, revitalize and disseminate American folklife traditions and arts. Provides that no payment shall be made pursuant to this Act to carry out any research or training over a period in excess of two years. States that such research or training may be extended to a period not to exceed five years with the concurrance of at least two-thirds of the members of the Board. Provides that no former employee of the Federal Govermnent shall be eligible to receive any grant or other assistance under this Act in the two year period following the termination of such employment. Requires the Center to submit to the Library of Congress, for inclusion in its annual report to the Congress, an annual report of its operations under this Act. Authorizes such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1973
Veteran's Insurance Act - Provides that all premiums and other collections on the Veterans' Special Life Insurance and any total disability provisions added thereto shall be credited to a revolving fund in the Treasury of the United States which together with interest earned thereon, shall be available for the payment of liabilities under such insurance and any total disability provisions added thereto, including payments of dividends and refunds of unearned premiums. Expands the term "member" for purposes of the Servicemen's Group Life Insurance program to include specified members of the Reserves and the National Guard. Provides that the maximum amount of benefits payable under the Servicemen's Group Life Insurance shall be $20,000. Permits any former member insured under Veteran's Group Life Insurance who again becomes eligible for Servicemen's Group Life Insurance and declines such coverage solely for the purpose of maintaining his Veteran's Group Life Insurance in effect shall upon termination of coverage under Veterans' Group Life Insurance be automatically insured under Servicemen's Group Life Insurance. Provides for the automatic conversion of Servicemen's Group Life Insurance to Veterans' Group Life Insurance subject to specified condtion. Redefines the order of precedence to be followed in the payment of insurance to beneficiaries under the Servicemen's Group Life Insurance and the Veterans' Group Life Insurance. Provides that Veterans' Group Life Insurance shall be issued in the amount of $5,000, $10,000, $15,000 or $20,000 only. States that no person may carry a combined amount of Servicemen's Group Life Insurance and Veterans' Group Life Insurance in excess of $20,000 at any one time. Sets forth the risks and conditions of the Veterans' Group Life Insurance plan. Sets forth the procedure for the computation and collection of premiums for such plan.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1973
Requires the President to appoint, with the advice and consent of the Senate, the head of the Mining Enforcement and Safety Administration, Department of the Interior.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1973
Removes the limits on payments for skilled nursing homes and intermediate care facilities under Title XIX of the Social Security Act (Grants to States for Medical Assistance).
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 1973
Declares that on Memorial Day, May 28, 1973, special remembrance be given by a grateful people to the 1,288 members of the Armed Forces of the United States currently listed as missing in action in Indochina. Declares that all American motorists are encouraged to turn on their automobile lights throughout Memorial Day, May 28, 1973, as a symbol of this remembrance. Provides that every effort be made to secure the cooperation of all parties in the Indochina conflict to insure the fullest and most expeditious resolution of the status of members of the U.S. Armed Forces missing in Indochina.
United States · United States Congress · 14 May 1973
Authorizes the President to call mini-White House Conferences on Aging every two years, for the year 1974, 1976, 1978, and 1980 for the purposes of providing information which is not now available for making key policy decisions in areas of special concern for older persons, evaluating the progress made in implementing the recommendations of the White House Conference on Aging, developing further recommendations for meeting the needs of the aging, and developing a plan of action for implementing these recommendations.
United States · United States Congress · 9 May 1973
Fire Prevention And Control Act - Declares it to be the finding of Congress that the federal government must help to develop solutions to fire problems. States that the intention of Congress is to supplement existing programs of fire research, training, and education, and to encourage new and improved programs and activities by State and local governments. Title I: United States Fire Administration - Establishes, within the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the United States Fire Administration. Sets forth the duties of the Administration, including: (1) to survey the fire problem, evaluate progress in fire prevention, assess new problem areas, and to evaluate the cost; (2) to recommend actions to be taken by federal, state, and local governments and private organizations and individuals to improve fire prevention; (3) to act as a coordinator of studies of fire protection methods; (4) to cooperate with and render assistance to other federal departments, and to all organizations in matters relating to fire prevention and control; and (5) to undertake research relating to fire prevention and control. Title II: National Fire Academy - Establishes, within the Administration, a National Fire Academy; (1) to facilitate specialized training in fire protection; (2) to assist State and local jurisdictions in planning and implementing fire protection programs; (3) to assist in the dissemination of information on fire prevention and control; and (4) to encourage fire protection agencies to give greater attention to fire prevention measures. Directs the Academy to establish a Nationa Fire Academy Advisory Board. Sets forth composition and compensation of Board members. Title III: National Fire Data System - Establishes within the Administration a National Fire Data System. Directs the System to collect data on fire injuries and deaths, property losses, and information concerning causes, locations, and numbers of fires, to be incorporated into an information retrieval system. Title IV: Research and Development - Sets forth the functions and responsibilities of the Administration, including to (1) evaluate the total area of fire research needs in the Federal, state, and local government sectors and the private sector; (2) sponsor and encourage research into promising but highly unconventional solutions to fire problems; and (3) encourage research or firefighting equipment and personal protective equipment for firefighters. Title V: Grants for State and Local Program Assistance - Directs the Administration to make grants to States for (1) the establishment and operation of state fire prevention and control planning agencies; and (2) for programs to improve and strengthen fire prevention and control. Sets forth the requirements a State plan must encompass in order to receive grants. Directs the allocation of funds appropriated to the Administration for the purpose of making grants. Title VI: Functions of Certain Other Federal Agencies - Expands the authorizations of the Secretary of Commerce to include specified fire research and safety programs. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to establish, within the National Institutes of Health, a program to augment current sponsorship of research on burns and burn treatment. Requires the Federal Insurance Administration to provide low-cost insured loans to homeowners and businessmen for the purpose of installing fire protection equipment. Title VII: Administrative Provisions - Grants the Administration specified powers in carrying out its functions including (1) the power to hold hearings; and (2) to use services of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Sets forth the procedure to be followed when an application for a grant has been rejected. Directs the Administration to carry out the programs of this Act during fiscal year 1974, and for the five succeeding fiscal years. Authorizes appropriations of $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1974, $50,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, and $128,000,000 for fiscal year 1976, and for succeeding fiscal years such sums as the Congress might authorize. Title VIII: General Provisions - Makes the provisions of this Act separable if one is found invalid.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1973
Provides for the incorporation of the Catholic War Veterans of the United States of America. Sets forth the powers, officers, principal place of business, and requirements of the corporation.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1973
States that no fur, leather, or other by-product whether raw or in finished form, shall be shipped into interstate or foreign commerce if such fur, leather, or other by-products come from animals trapped in any state or nation where leg-hold, still jaw traps and devices are used. Prevents imports of such fur, leather or by-products. Establishes a fine of not more than $2000 for the first violation of this Act and provides for afine of not more than $5000 and imprisonment or not more than one to three years for subsequent offenses.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1973
Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare to make grants to, or enter into contracts with, public or private nonprofit institutions to pay the Federal share of the cost of research designed to identify the causes and to develop preventive measures to eliminate sudden infant death syndrome. Sets forth the activities for which a payment may be made under this Act. Provides that payment in any fiscal year to any single institution under this Act may not exceed $50,000. States that the Federal share of the cost of any activities for which application is made under this Act shall be 50 percent. Authorizes to be appropriated $2,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1974, to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1973
Declares that the Attorney General-Designate should vest the special prosecutor to investigate the Watergate case with all necessary attributes of independence, including but not limited to the following: (1) final authority over questions of convening and conducting proceedings before grand juries, subpoenaing witnesses, initiating prosecutions, framing indictments and seeking in court grants of immunity from prosecution for witnesses; (2) final authority over the selection of an adequate staff of attorneys, investigators and other personnel answerable only to himself; (3) assurance that the investigatory and other resources of the Department of Justice and funds to defray all expenses incurred in connection with the activities of the special prosecutor will remain available for the time necessary to complete the investigation and prosecute any offenders; (4) assurance that he will not be subject to removal from his position except for malfeasance in office; (5) assurance that he will enjoy full access to the relevant documents and personnel of the Department of Justice and all other officials and agencies of the Executive Branch; and (6) assurance that the special prosecutor can freely, and upon their request, appear before, consult with and cooperate in other respects with all Congressional committees having jurisdiction over any aspect of the special prosecutor's activities.
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 1973
Bilingual Courts Act - Provides for the determination of each of those judicial districts in which at least 5 percent or 50,000 residents of that district, whichever is less, do not speak or understand the English language with reasonable facility, and the certification of each such district as a bilingual judicial district by certificate transmitted to the chief judge of the district court for that district. Authorizes the Director of the Administrative Office of the United States Courts to provide facilities and personnel for bilingual proceedings. States that any bilingual proceeding shall be recorded verbatim in addition to any stenographic transcript of the proceeding taken. Provides for the distribution of costs of bilingual facilities among the parties using them and authorizes to be appropriated to the Administrative Office of the United States courts sums necessary to carry out the amendments made by this Act. (Amends 28 U.S.C. 604(a); Adds 28 U.S.C. 1827)
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1973
Authorizes reduced rate transportation for handicapped persons and for persons who are sixty-five years of age or older or twenty-one years of age or younger under the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 and the Interstate Commerce Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1973
Full Employment and Job Development Act - States that the purpose of the Act is to provide for the implementation of a full employment policy through the establishment of a Federal Full Employment Board and the provision of assistance for job development in the public and non-profit private sectors and related training and assistance. Establishes as an independent agency in the executive branch a Federal Full Employment Board, to consist of five members appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate as follows: one representative of labor, one of management, one distinguished economist, one distinguished manpower expert; and one member of the general public. Authorizes and directs the Board to: (1) recommend to the President and to the Congress a program to achieve full employment; (2) undertake manpower planning and long-range and short-term surveys in terms of demand, supply and sector; (3) review decisions made by public and private employers affecting full employment; (4) develop guidelines and standards for use of public funds in job development programs; (5) review the implementation of manpower training and employment implementation of manpower training and employment programs in terms of the extent to which they contribute to full employment; (6) direct the Secretary of Labor to obligate funds made available under the Full Employment Assistance Fund; (7) hold nationwide and regional conferences; (8) analyze the extent to which the Federal budget may assist in reaching full employment; (9) evaluate programs; and (10) carry out such other functions as the President may direct. Authorizes $3,000,000 to be appropriated for fiscal year 1974 and for each fiscal year thereafter for the activities of the Board. Provides for an annual Full Employment Report setting forth the Board's recommendations with respect to implementation of a full employment policy for each fiscal year and for succeeding fiscal years. Establishes the Full Employment Assistance Fund and authorizes therefor $1 billion for fiscal 1974, and such funds as necessary for each year thereafter. Provides that the Secretary of Labor is to provide assistance from the fund pursuant to specific directions of the Board to public agencies and non-profit private organizations (including prime sponsors of manpower training and employment programs) for public service job development programs, and related training and assistance. Provides that assistance is to be provided by the Secretary only by application submitted to the Secretary and approved by him. States that each application must set forth a program to provide employment and related training and assistance for unemployed persons to enable them to obtain employment not supported under the Act and meet other special requirements. Authorizes the Secretary of Labor to use such sums as may be necessary from those appropriated to the Fund for training and other services related to employment. Requires the President to establish an Intergovernmental Full Employment Advisory Council, which shall meet at least twice a year to advise the Board with regard to matters related to achieving the objective of full employment. Provides that in selecting members of the Council, the President shall assure an equitable balance in political and geographical affiliation of its members and shall insure inclusion of State and local prime sponsors and other public and private agencies and organizations responsible for conducting manpower training and employment programs.
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1973
Family Planning Services and Population Research Amendments - Requires the Assistant Secretary for Family Planning and Population Science to report (through the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare) to Congress not later than six months after enactment of this Act on: (1) the number of individuals in need of family planning services - organized and otherwise - and a timetable for serving them; (2) the types of information and educational materials to be developed; (3) research goals to be established and a timetable for their achievement; and (4) the manpower required to meet these objectives. Requires the Assistant Secretary to submit progress reports annually on specific achievements made in reaching goals established by the six-month report. Authorizes grants to assist in the establishment and operation of voluntary family planning programs and projects. Authorizes appropriations for a three-year period-fiscal years 1974 ($159.5 million), 1975 ($207.5 million) and 1976 ($255.5 million). Extends appropriations authorizations for a three-year period-fiscal years 1974 ($5 million), 1975 ($7.5 million), and 1976 ($10 million) for training grants and contracts for the training of such personnel to carry out family planning services programs eligible for support under this Act as are needed to meet program objectives specified in the plan. Specifies that grants and contracts awarded under this Act must be made with the concurrence of the Assistant Secretary for Family Planning and Population Science and be carried on through the National Center for Family Planning Services and in consultation with the National Advisory Council. Authorizes the Secretary, throught the Assistant Secretary for Family Planning and Population Science, to make grants to public or nonprofit private entities and enter into contracts with public or private entities and individuals for: (1) the development of educational and informational materials on voluntary family planning; (2) the development of educational and informational materials on the causes and consequences of demographic characteristics and trends; and (3) the distribution of such materials to all persons desiring such information and materials. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the development and distribution of such materials. Provides that grants and contracts made under this Act shall be made in accordance with regulations which the Secretary shall prescribe. States that the acceptance by any individual of family planning services or family planning or population information provided through financial assistance under this Act shall be voluntary and shall not be a prerequisite to eligibility for or receipt of any other service or assistance from, or to participation in, any other program of the entity or individual that provided such services or information. Directs that none of the funds appropriated under this Act shall be used in programs where abortion is a method of family planning. Establishes within the Office of the Secretary an Office of Family Planning and Population Science to be directed by an Assistant Secretary for Family Planning and Population Science who shall be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Sets forth the functions of the Assistant Secretary. Establishes within the Office a National Center for Family Planning Services and a National Center for Population Science, which shall, respectively, be assigned and carry out the functions assigned to such Centers by this Act and such other duties and responsibilities as the Assistant Secretary may specify in regulations. Requires the Secretary to establish a National Family Planning and Population Science Advisory Council with which he and the Assistant Secretary shall consult on a continuing and regular basis in administering this title. Specifies the membership of the Council.
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1973
Makes it unlawful for any Executive Branch officer or any person acting under such officer's authority to require any of the following from any United States Government employee or any applicant for employment in the Executive Branch of the Government: (1) disclose their race, religion, or national origin; (2) attend Government-sponsored meetings and lectures or participate in outside activities unrelated to their employment; (3) report on their outside activites or undertakings unrelated to their work; (4) submit to questioning about their religion, personal relationships or sexual attitudes through interviews, psychological tests, or polygraphs; and (5) support political candidates or attend political meetings. Permits inquiries into national origin when necessary for the national interest or overseas work. Allows agency officers to advise employees of charges of sexual misconduct as long as the employee has an opportunity to refute the charge. Makes it illegal to coerce an employee to buy bonds or make charitable contributions; or to require him to disclose his own personal assets, liabilities, or expenditures, or those of any member of his family unless they would show a conflict of interest. Provides a right to have a counsel or other person present, if the employee wishes, at an interview which may lead to disciplinary proceedings. Makes it unlawful for any Civil Service Commission officer to require any executive department or agency to do any prohibited act; or to require a person seeking to establish Civil Service status or employment in the executive branch to submit to interrogation, polygraph testing, or psychological testing designed to elicit views regarding religion, personal relationships, or sexual attitude. Accords the right to a civil action in a Federal court for violation or threatened violation of this Act. Directs the Attorney General to defend all persons sued who acted pursuant to an order or who, in his opinion, did not willfully violate this Act. Establishes a three-member Board on Employees' Rights with members appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Grants the Board the authority and duty to receive and investigate written complaints from any person claiming to be aggrieved by any violation or threatened violation of this Act and to conduct a hearing on each such complaint. Grants the Board powers which will eliminate violation of this Act. Directs the Board to make an annual report of its activities to Congress. Excludes the Central Intelligence Agency and the National Security Agency from the provisions of this Act. Permits the establishment of agency grievance procedures to enforce this Act, but the existence of such procedures shall not preclude the use of other remedies.
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1973
Prohibits any material to be enclosed with any social security check which contains the name, signature, or title of any Federal officer other than the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration. (Adds 42 U.S.C. 405(n))
United States · United States Congress · 18 April 1973
Extends until November 1, 1978, the existing exemption of the steamboat Delta Queen from specified vessel laws requiring construction of large passenger boats to be of fire retardant material.
United States · United States Congress · 18 April 1973
Federal Appropriations Reform Act - Title I: Change of Fiscal Year - Provides that beginning June 30, 1974, the fiscal year shall coincide with the calendar year. Sets April 15 as the date for the submission to Congress of the President's budget and economic messages and economic reports. Title II: Separate Consideration of Appropriations Measures - Provides that the legislative period of Congress shall open on January 3 for exclusive consideration of legislative matters, August 15, and set a specific date by which all authorizations bills must be enacted. Provides that the fiscal period of Congress shall convene thereafter, at a date set by joint resolution upon the adjournment of the legislative period, for the exclusive consideration of appropriation bills. Provides that the fiscal period can last no longer than December 1. Directs that during both periods, all committees, legislative and appropriation, shall meet to consider matters under their jurisdiction. Allows them to hold hearings and conduct studies, but states only legislative committees can report bills or resolutions to the floor during a legislative period, while only appropriations committees can report bills to the floor during the fiscal period. Provides the following exceptions: (1) Congress can make supplemental or deficiency appropriations during a legislative period; (2) the president of the United States or the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House, acting jointly, may notify Congress that the consideration of specific bills is necessary because of a national emergency; and (3) during either the legislative or fiscal period, the Congress may consider overriding a veto by the President.
United States · United States Congress · 17 April 1973
Midair Collision Avoidance Act - States that the purpose of this Act is to require the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to expedite the evaluation and selection of a national standard for a collision avoidance system; proceed to develop plans for operating rules and regulations integrating this system into the ground-based air traffic control system; and require the installation of a collision avoidance system on all classes of aircraft by certain dates. Not later than March 30, 1974, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, in cooperation with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the Secretary of Defense acting through the Interdepartment Group on Collision Avoidance and Pilot Warning, shall complete the flight test and evaluation currently competing airborne collision avoidance systems, as defined in the Federal Aviation Act, and, not later than June 30, 1974, shall select a national standard for such systems. Provides that not later than December 30, 1974, the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration shall publish implementation rules and regulations to describe compatible use and operating procedures between CAS systems and the existing air traffic control system. Sets forth minimum standards regarding collison avoidance systems and the specified dates upon which there must be compliance with such standards.
United States · United States Congress · 11 April 1973
Congressional Budgetary Procedures Act - Establishes a standing Committee of the Senate to be known as the Committee on the Budget and a Standing Committee of the House of Representatives to be known as the Committee on the Budget. Outlines the composition and duties of each committee. Authorizes these committees to consider those bills introduced in each respective House, providing new advance obligational authority. Provides that neither committee of the House or Senate shall consider such new budgetary measures after the first of May except in emergency or the waiver of such time limitation by 2/3 vote. Creates a Congressional Office of the Budget and outlines the duties of such Office. Provides that the function of the office is to provide information to the Budget Committees of the two Houses and to other Committees of the two Houses with respect to budget and appropriation bills. Abolishes the joint committee on reduction of Federal Expenditures. Requires the office to recommend to each budget committee of the two houses the amount by which budget outlays of the U.S. should exceed revenues expected to be received or the amount by which such revenues should exceed such budget outlays in order to provide for appropriate growth and stability of the economy of the U.S. Requires each budget committee to give consideration to such recommendations and make a report to the office concerning such budget considerations. Requires that by March 1 of each year the Committees submit a concurrent resolution to their respective Houses containing specified budget information. Outlines those procedures for review and debate of such concurrent resolution. Provides that there shall be a conference of two Houses to resolve any difference between the concurrent resolutions passed by each House. Makes conforming amendments in the Budget and Accounting Act of 1921. Provides that all bills and resolutions providing budget authority with respect to any fiscal year shall provide a limit on budget outlays in such fiscal year under such budget authority. Provides that the provisions of this Act are enacted by Congress as an exercise of the rulemaking powers of the House and Senate.
United States · United States Congress · 11 April 1973
Provides for an extension through June 30, 1975, of authorization for special project grants under title V of the Social Security Act (Grants to States for Maternal and Child Welfare).
United States · United States Congress · 11 April 1973
Provides that in any proceeding before the Tax Court for the redetermination of a deficiency, the prevailing party may be awarded a judgment of costs to the same extent as is provided for civil actions brought against the United States. States that a judgment of costs entered by the Tax Court shall be treated, for purposes of this Act in the same manner: (1) as an overpayment of tax, in the case of a judgment of costs in favor of the petitioner, and (2) as an underpayment of tax, in the case of a judgment of costs against the petitioner. Provides that interest or penalty shall be allowed or assessed with respect to any judgment of costs. (Adds 26 U.S.C. 7465)
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1973
Establishes the National Commission on Executive Security to: (1) conduct a study of all laws, and of all rules, regulations, and orders, relating to the classification and protection of information, and the practices and procedures of Federal agencies with respect to such matters for the purpose of determining what reorganization, if any, of the executive branch needs to be made to insure full disclosure of information, consistent with the security of the United States; (2) determine which such laws, rules, regulations, orders, and procedures are necessary, appropriate, and consistent with the freedom of speech, press, and assembly guaranteed by the first amendment to the Constitution, the freedom of information, and the efficient and equitable operation of Government; (3) determine what, if any, modifications of existing laws, rules, regulations, orders, and procedures are required to insure a more efficient, equitable, and uniform system for maximum possible disclosure of information, consistent with the security of the United States; (4) make recommendations for legislation or other governmental action to preserve and protect the security of the United States in a manner consistent with the right of the people of the United States to full disclosure of information relating to their Government; and (5) determine whether an independent agency should be established to insure the maximum disclosure of information. Directs the Chairman of the Commission to hold such hearings, sit and act at such times and places, administer such oaths, and require by subpena or otherwise the attendance and testimony of such witnesses and the production of such books, records, correspondence, memorandums, papers, and documents as the Commission may deem advisable. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1973
Lobster Conservation and Control Act - States that it is the purpose of this Act to provide for effective control of lobster fisheries on the Continental Shelf of the United States until such time as the United States can enter into an appropriate treaty or treaties providing for such control. Includes lobster as a Continental Shelf fishery resource within the meaning of the Act entitled an Act to prohibit fishing in the territorial waters of the United States and in certain other areas by vessels other than vessels of the United States and by persons in charge of such vessels. (Amends 16 U.S.C. 1085(a))
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1973
Federal Bureau of Investigation Improvement Act - Establishes as an independent establishment of the executive branch of the United States Government, the Federal Bureau of Investigation. States that the Bureau shall be headed by a Director who shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for a term of seven years. Transfers to the Bureau all functions carried out by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Justice. Sets forth the functions and duties of the Director. Provides that the Director may appoint such personnel as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act without regard to the provisions of title 5, United States Code, governing appointments in the competitive service. Authorizes the Director to fix the compensation of the personnel of the Bureau and to prescribe their functions and duties. Sets forth the administrative privileges and duties of the Director. Authorizes the Bureau to detect and prosecute crimes against the U.S., assist in the protection of the President, and conduct official investigations. States that appropriations for the Bureau are available for expenses of unforeseen emergencies of a confidential character, when so specified in the appropriation concerned, to be spent under the direction of the Director. Provides that the Director shall certify the amount spent that he considers advisable not to specify, and his certification is a sufficient voucher for the amount therein expressed to have been spent. Directs the Director, as soon as practicable after the end of each fiscal year, to make a report in writing to the President for submission to the Congress on the activities of the Bureau during the preceding fiscal year. Provides that this Act shall not affect any pending or granted orders, determinations, rules, regulations, permits, contracts, certificates, licenses or privileges. States that this Act shall take effect 90 days after enactment or on such prior date after enactment as the President shall prescribe and publish in the Federal Register.
![Official portrait of Sen. Williams, Harrison A., Jr. [D-NJ]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/w000502_200.jpg)