United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1985
Veterans' Administration Adjudication Procedure and Judicial Review Act - Title I: Adjudication Procedures - Codifies for Veterans Administration (VA) adjudication purposes the burden of proof and reasonable doubt standards currently provided for by VA regulation. States that a claimant has the burden of submitting sufficient evidence to justify his or her claim, and that if an approximate balance of positive and negative evidence exists regarding the merits of a claim, the VA is to resolve such doubt in favor of the claimant. States that VA subpoenas may be served either by personal delivery or by registered or certified mail. Requires the chairman of the Board of Veterans' Appeals to submit an annual report to the appropriate congressional committees concerning the Board's current handling of cases and projections for the subsequent fiscal year. Requires the Board to: (1) provide notice to a claimant and an opportunity for a hearing before a decision may be based on "additional official information" received after a Board decision has previously been made; and (2) make its decision exclusively on evidence and material of record in the proceeding. Removes the requirement that new material sufficient to allow the Board to reopen a previously disallowed claim be in the form of official reports. Provides that the Board's discretionary authority to reopen a claim will not be diminished by a judicial decision following an appeal as provided for by this Act. Requires the Board to mail to the claimant notice of its decision and the reasons for such decision. Provides that, upon the request of a claimant, the Board shall provide an independent advisory medical opinion when there exists substantial medical disagreement with respect to a material issue in a veteran's appeal. Sets forth new procedural rules for adjudication hearings regarding: (1) oaths, affirmations, and witness examination; (2) admissibility of evidence; (3) procedural rights of claimants; (4) disqualification of a hearing officer; (5) the record of the proceedings and the claimant's right to examine and obtain a copy of such record; and (6) the exclusiveness of veterans' adjudication procedures and rights prescribed by the Administrator. Requires the Administrator to provide at each stage of the appeal proceedings written notice to a claimant of the claimant's procedural rights. Directs the Administrator to conduct a study of two alternative claims resolution methods: one a new intermediate-level adjudication process; the other an enhanced schedule of formal Appeals Board hearings. Directs the Administrator to report to the Congress on such studies. Title II: Veterans Administration Rule Making - Includes the VA's rulemaking procedures under the relevant provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act. Title III: Judicial Review - Provides for judicial review of VA decisions in the Federal court system. States with regard to jurisdiction: (1) the definition of final decision; (2) that judicial review of a final decision in a claim for benefits may be obtained in a civil action brought within 180 days of the Board's mailing of notice of its decision, and that such action shall be brought in Federal district court; (3) that the VA shall file the various materials constituting the record in a case together with its answer to the claimant's complaint; (4) that the court may render a decision on the pleadings; and (5) that the judicial review procedures established under this Act shall not apply to insurance and home loans. States, with regard to the reviewing court's scope of review, that such court: (1) shall decide questions of law and interpret constitutional, statutory, and regulatory provisions, but that questions of fact (unless unsupported by substantial evidence) will not be subject to a trial de novo; and (2) in reviewing a final decision of the VA which is adverse to a party solely because such party failed to comply with VA procedures, may only review questions concerning such procedures. Sets out provisions regarding remand, survival of actions, and appellate review. Title IV: Attorneys' Fees - Authorizes the Administrator to allow attorneys' fees above the present $10 maximum if the appealing party's claim is allowed by the VA after an initial denial. States that such fee shall be the lesser of: (1) the fee agreed upon by the party and attorney; (2) $500, unless the Administrator approves a greater amount; or (3) if the party and attorney have entered into a contingent-fee agreement, not more than 25 percent of the total of any past-due benefits awarded on the basis of such party's claim. Provides for the approval of attorneys' fees in successful veterans' claims brought before a court as provided for under this Act. States that such fees shall be determined by such court, and in contingent-fee agreements such fees shall not exceed 25 percent of the total of any past-due benefits awarded on the basis of such claim. Authorizes attorneys' fees of up to $750 in certain unsuccessful veterans' claims. Prohibits the VA from authorizing payment to a claimant's attorney based on past-due benefits unless such benefits are owed as of the date of the VA's or a court's award. States that such provisions regarding attorneys' fees shall only apply to claims for benefits under the laws administered by the VA and shall not apply in cases in which the VA is the plaintiff or in which other attorneys' fees statutes are otherwise controlling. Title V: Effective Dates - Sets forth the effective dates for this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1985
Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to provide grants and technical assistance to Fort Collins, Colorado, to study a segment of the Cache la Poudre River corridor to evaluate its recreation opportunities and flood plain management options. Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress on the study within three years. Authorizes appropriations. Limits to 75 percent the Federal share of study costs.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1985
National Commission on Neurofibromatosis Act - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish within 60 days a National Commission on Neurofibromatosis which shall formulate a plan to identify the research needed to develop an effective treatment and a cure for neurofibromatosis. Sets forth operating and related provisions. Authorizes the Commission to transmit interim reports. Requires the Commission to make a final report to the President and to each House of the Congress within two years. Terminates the Commission three months after submission of the final report. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1985
Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to provide that disability insurance benefits for an individual having a terminal illness shall begin with the first month such individual has such illness.
United States · United States Congress · 21 January 1985
Title I: Amendments to the Reorganization Act of 1977 - Reorganization Extension Act of 1985 - Extends the authority of the President to reorganize the executive branch until December 31, 1986 (currently December 31, 1984). Revises the congressional veto procedure to conform to such extension. Title II: Improvements in Congressional Oversight of Federal Regions - Oversight of Federal Regions Act of 1985 - Establishes, by law, the Federal regions into which the departments and agencies are divided for administrative purposes as in effect on December 31, 1984. Allows any reorganization plan to provide for the abolition or consolidation of such regions.
United States · United States Congress · 7 January 1985
Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Treatment Act of 1985 - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to designate 20 centers for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. Requires such centers to: (1) provide a central facility for diagnosis, evaluation, and counseling; (2) develop standards of treatment and methods of delivering cost-effective services; (3) train professionals and nonprofessionals in diagnosing and treating such disorders; and (4) develop a comprehensive acute and long-term treatment program. Authorizes FY 1986 through 1990 appropriations. Directs the Secretary to make $1,000,000 available to each center for each of at least five years for teaching, training, research, and staffing. Permits eligible persons to elect to receive benefits as provided for by this Act rather than under titles XVIII (Medicare), XIX (Medicaid), or XX (Grants to States for Service) of the Social Security Act, or under the Older Americans Act of 1965.
United States · United States Congress · 7 January 1985
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases Act of 1985 - Amends title IV (National Research Institutes) of the Public Health Service Act to establish a National Institute (Institute) of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases in the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Redesignates the existing National Institute of Arthritis, Diabetes, and Digestive and Kidney Diseases as the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. States that the Institute shall conduct research and related activities concerning arthritis, musculoskeletal diseases and skin diseases. Requires the Director of the Institute, with the advice of the National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Advisory Council, to establish a national plan to coordinate such activities. Establishes within the Institute: (1) the National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases Data System; and (2) the National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1988. Establishes within the Institue: (1) an Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases Interagency Coordinating Committee; and (2) a Skin Diseases Interagency Coordinating Committee. Requires annual reports to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and to the Director of NIH. Establishes within the Institute a National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases Advisory Council. Authorizes appropriations through FY 1988 for arthritis and musculoskeletal demonstration projects and multipurpose disease centers. Requires the Institute to submit a biennial report. Transfers arthritis-related functions (including data system, advisory functions, coordinating functions, demonstration project, and multipurpose center), funds, personnel, and assets to the Institute from the existing National Institute of Arthritis, Diabetes, and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Requires the secretary to report to the appropriate congressional committees and to the Comptroller General within 60 days regarding such transfers. Requires the Comptroller General to report to the appropriate congressional committees within 80 days regarding such transfers. Terminates the National Arthritis Advisory Board. Makes conforming amendments. Requires the Secretary, through NIH, to conduct a study of the existing combinations of disease research programs within the institutes and of the standards to be followed in establishing new or realigning existing institutes. Requires a report to the appropriate congressional committees within 18 months. Prohibits the establishment of any new institutes within six months of such report's submission. Directs the Secretary to conduct and complete within 60 days a review of the disease research programs of the National Institute of diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (as redesignated by this Act) to determine if any of these programs could be more effectively managed by other national research institutions.
United States · United States Congress · 7 January 1985
Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a program of grants to: (1) identify women who received diethylstilbestrol (DES) while pregnant and their children; (2) establish a voluntary registry of such women and children; (3) provide them with periodic cancer screening; and (4) provide health personnel and the public with information respecting the health hazards of such drug. Authorizes appropriations.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Civil Liberties Act of 1985 - Title I: Recognition of Injustice and an Apology on Behalf of the Nation - States that the Congress recognizes that a grave injustice was done to both citizens and resident aliens of Japanese ancestry by the evacuation, relocation, and internment of civilians during World War II. Title II: United States Citizens of Japanese Ancestry and Resident Japanese Aliens - Requests the President to offer pardons of those convicted of violating laws during the internment period whose violation was based on a refusal to accept racially discriminatory treatment. Provides that Federal departments and agencies that review applications for restitution of positions, status, or entitlement lost during the internment period shall review such applications giving full consideration to the findings of the Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Civilians. Establishes within the Treasury a Civil Liberties Public Education Fund. Authorizes appropriations for the Fund. Requires the Attorney General to pay $20,000 from the Fund to each surviving internee. Establishes a Board of Directors which shall be responsible for making disbursement from the Fund. Provides that disbursement from the Fund shall be used to: (1) sponsor research and public educational activities dealing with the internment; (2) fund studies of similar civil liberties abuses; (3) prepare and distribute hearings and findings of the Commission; and (4) promote the general welfare of the ethnic Japanese community in the United States. Title III: Aleutian and Pribilof Islands Restitution - Aleutian and Pribilof Islands Restitution Act - Establishes within the Treasury the Aleutian and Pribilof Islands Restitution Fund. Directs the Administrator of the Fund (the Aleutian/Pribilof Islands Association) to make restitution for certain Aleut losses sustained in World War II. Requires the Administrator to establish a trust of $5,000,000 and to distribute the interest of such trust for: (1) the benefit of the elderly, disabled, or seriously ill; (2) students in need of scholarship assistance; (3) preservation of Aleut cultural heritage and historical records; (4) the improvement of community centers of affected Aleut villages; and (5) other purposes to improve Aleut life. Authorizes the Administrator to rebuild and restore churches and church property damaged or destroyed in Aleut villages during World War II. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to make payments of $12,000 from the fund to each eligible Aleut for any uncompensated personal property loss. Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to implement a program for the removal and disposal of live ammunition, obsolete buildings, abandoned machinery, and other hazardous debris remaining in populated areas of the lower Alaska Peninsula and the Aleutian Islands. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to convey to the Aleut Corporation all right, title, and interest of the United States in Attu Island, Alaska. Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: Miscellaneous Provisions - Provides that all documents, personal testimony, and other material collected by the Commission on Wartime Relocation and Internment of Civilians shall be deposited in the National Archives of the United States.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Biennial Budgeting Act of 1985 - Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to establish a two-year cycle for the presidential and congressional budget process. Requires each standing committee of the Congress to review the laws and programs under its jurisdiction every other year and to consider the desirability of new legislation in such areas. Eliminates provisions requiring a second concurrent resolution on the budget. Permits revisions only in new spending authority, revenues, and the public debt limit through the reconciliation process.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Colorado Wilderness Act of 1985 - Designates the following lands in Colorado as components of the National Wilderness Preservation System: (1) the Buffalo Peaks Wilderness in the San Isabel National Forest; (2) the St. Louis Peak Wilderness in the Arapaho National Forest; (3) the Cannibal Plateau Wilderness Area in the Uncompaghre National Forest and in the Bureau of Land Management Gunnison Basin Resource Area; (4) the Fossil Ridge Wilderness in the Gunnison National Forest; (5) the Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness in the San Isabel National Forest; (6) lands in the White River National Forest which shall be incorporated in the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness; (7) lands in the Rio Grande National Forest which shall be incorporated in the La Garita Wilderness; (8) certain lands in the Routt National Forest which shall be incorporated in the Mt. Zirkel Wilderness; (9) the Piedra Wilderness in the San Juan National Forest; (10) lands in the Gunnison National Forest which shall be incorporated in the Raggeds Wilderness; (11) the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness in and adjacent to the Rio Grande and San Isabel National Forest; (12) the Service Creek Wilderness in the Routt National Forest; (13) lands in the San Juan National Forest which shall be incorporated in the South San Juan Wilderness; (14) the Vasquez Peak Wilderness in the Arapaho National Forest; (15) lands in the San Juan National Forest which shall be incorporated in the Weminuche Wilderness; (16) the Spanish Peaks Wilderness in the San Isabel National Forest; (17) the Lost Creek Wilderness in the Pike National Forest; (18) the Williams Fork Wilderness in the Arapaho National Forest, with specified restrictions on the management of the Williams Fork Further Planning Area; and (19) lands in the Bureau of Land Management Gunnison Basin Resource Area which shall be incorporated in the Big Blue Wilderness. Provides that the RARE II (second roadless area review and evaluation) final environmental statement (dated January 1979) with respect to national forest system lands in Colorado shall not be subject to judicial review. Releases national forest system lands in Colorado which were reviewed in the RARE II program from further review by the Department of Agriculture, pending the revision of initial national forest management plans. Releases lands in Colorado reviewed in the RARE II program and not designated as wilderness from management as wilderness areas. Prohibits the Department of Agriculture from conducting any further statewide roadless area review and evaluation of national forest system lands in Colorado without express congressional authorization. States that the provisions above shall also apply to national forest system roadless lands in Colorado which are less than 5,000 acres in size.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
National Diffusion Network Act - Directs the Secretary of Education to carry out a program to promote the use of exemplary educational programs, products, and practices to interested elementary and secondary schools. Requires the Secretary to provide information, materials, training, technical assistance, and evaluations. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to, and contracts with, public and nonprofit private educational institutions and organizations to carry out such program. Declares that such program shall be deemed to be a continuation of the National Diffusion Network for which provision is made under the Education Consolidation and Improvement Act of 1981. Directs the Secretary to allocate funds available under such Act to such program. Authorizes additional appropriations, if necessary, to carry out such program in FY 1986 through 1989.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Law Enforcement Officers Protection Act of 1985 - Amends the Federal criminal code to define "armor piercing ammunition." Excludes from the definition: (1) shotgun shot composed in order to comply with Federal or State law; (2) frangible projectiles for target shooting; (3) ammunition containing frangible projectiles; and (4) any ammunition or projectiles which the Secretary of the Treasury determines are primarily intended for sporting purposes. Makes it unlawful for any person to manufacture or import armor piercing ammunition. Allows: (1) the manufacture or importation of armor piercing ammunition for the use of the United States or any State or local government; (2) manufacture for the sole purpose of exportation; or (3) manufacture or importation for the purposes of testing and experimentation authorized by the Secretary. Establishes a licensing fee of $1,000 per year for manufacturers and importers of armor piercing ammunition. Authorizes the Secretary to revoke a license from a dealer for violating this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Broadcasting Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1985 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to require any radio or television broadcasting station licensee and any corporation, partnership, association, joint-stock company, or trust engaged primarily in the management or operation of any such licensee to establish, maintain, and execute an equal employment opportunity program. Sets forth certification and reporting requirements with respect to the programs of such entities with more than five full-time employees. Requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), at least every five years, to investigate the employment practices of each of such entities to determine compliance with program requirements. Establishes penalties for failing to comply with such requirements. Permits employees or applicants for employment who believe they have been discriminated against in violation of program requirements to file a complaint with the FCC. Requires FCC regulations to specify procedures for investigating such complaints and enforcing program requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
African Famine Relief and Recovery Act of 1985 - Title I: Authorizations of Appropriations - Authorizes supplemental appropriations for FY 1985 for famine relief in Africa for: (1) agricultural development programs; (2) international disaster assistance programs; (3) development program operating expenses; and (4) the Migration and Refugee Assistance account of the State Department. Title II: Appropriations - Makes supplemental appropriations for FY 1985 to: (1) the Department of Agriculture for Public Law 480; (2) the Agency for International Development for specified agriculture, rural development, and nutrition programs, for international disaster assistance, and for operating expenses; and (3) the Department of State for migration and refugee assistance. Declares that funds appropriated for Public Law 480, for agriculture, rural development, and nutrition programs (other than funds for rehabilitation and recovery projects), and for international disaster assistance shall be available only for those African countries which suffer from exceptional food supply problems in 1985 due to drought and other calamities. Permits the use of Public Law 480 funds to reimburse certain ongoing famine relief programs. Declares that funds for rehabilitation and recovery projects and for migration and refugee assistance shall be available only to those African countries which have suffered in the last two years from exceptional food supply problems due to drought and other calamities.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Prohibits the expenditure of funds for the production of lethal binary chemical munitions after the enactment of this Act. Defines lethal binary chemical munitions. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President should begin negotiations with the Soviet Union for a mutual, verifiable ban on chemical weapons.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Requires the President to transmit to Congress for FY 1986 and each fiscal year thereafter a balanced budget. Permits the transmittal of alternate budget proposals which, if implemented, would result in a deficit or surplus if the President determines that a balanced budget is inappropriate for any fiscal year. Requires that any such alternate budget proposals for a fiscal year include a comprehensive plan to balance the Federal budget. Requires the Committee on the Budget of each House to report by April 15 of every year a balanced budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Requires the Committee on the Budget of either House also to report a comprehensive plan to balance the Federal budget, if it determines that a balanced budget is inappropriate for any fiscal year.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Minority Telecommunications Ownership Tax Act of 1985 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the investment tax credit for the purchase of used telecommunications property pursuant to a Federal Communications Commission tax certificate. Defines "FCC tax certificate" as any certificate granted by the Federal Communications Commission which provides that the purchase of the property is necessary or appropriate to effectuate an FCC policy with respect to the ownership and control of systems of communication by wire or radio. Extends the nonrecognition of gain for FCC-certified sales or exchanges of radio broadcasting stations to systems of communications by wire or radio.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
States that the President should, at the earliest possible date: (1) request Senate advice and consent to ratification of the Threshold Test Ban and Peaceful Nuclear Explosions Treaties; and (2) propose to the Soviet Union the resumption of negotiations toward conclusion of a verifiable comprehensive test ban treaty.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Constitutional Amendment - Provides for the appointment of electors to represent the insular areas constituting the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Constitutional Amendment - Declares that equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State on account of sex.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Establishes in the House of Representatives the Congressional Child Care Center for the use of children of Members, officers, and employees of the House. States that the Committee on House Administration shall operate the Center. Directs the Chairman of such Committee to appoint a nonpartisan advisory board to make recommendations on management and operation of the Center, and to conduct semiannual reviews of such Center. Requires that operating expenses be recovered through child care fees. Establishes a revolving fund within the House contingent fund for the purpose of operating the Center.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Establishes in the House of Representatives the Select Committee on Hunger to conduct a continuing comprehensive study of the problems of hunger and malnutrition. Requires an annual report from such committee, including a summary of its activities.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Establishes in the House of Representatives the Select Committee on Children, Youth, and Families to conduct a comprehensive study and review of the problems of children, youth, and families.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Expresses the sense of the Congress that public utilities and the private sector should establish programs to assist low-income individuals in meeting heating fuel and weatherization costs.
United States · United States Congress · 3 January 1985
Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) Poland should comply with basic human rights agreements to which it is a signatory, such as the Helsinki accords, and initiate a policy of National Reconciliation; (2) the prosecution of those responsible for the death of Father Jerzy Popieluszko should be supported by Poland; (3) human rights monitoring committees in Poland should be supported; (4) the free flow of information on the activities of such committees can improve human rights policies in Poland and the continued improvement of human rights there would better relations between the United States and Poland; and (5) the President should convey Congress' concerns to Polish officials and to U.S. allies.
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 1984
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Federal Government take immediate steps to support funding for a national storm-scale operational and research meteorological (STORM) program under the leadership of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration of the Department of Commerce, with the cooperation of other interested and appropriate departments and agencies. Sets forth certain times the President should submit to Congress proposed activities of the program, including budgetary requirements, progress reports, and a statement of activities.
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1984
Motor Vehicle Theft Law Enforcement Act of 1984 - Title I: Improved Identification for Passenger Motor Vehicles and Parts - Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to direct the Secretary of Transportation to promulgate a vehicle theft prevention standard applicable to major parts (and replacements for such parts) installed by manufacturers into passenger motor vehicles designated as high theft lines. Declares that such standard shall apply to vehicles and parts manufactured after it takes effect. Prohibits such standard from requiring any part to have more than a single identification, and any motor vehicle to have identification of more than 14 of its major parts. Sets forth prohibitions with respect to identifying major replacement parts. Prescribes the methods for: (1) designating high theft vehicle lines and parts; and (2) determining the theft rate for passenger motor vehicles. Sets forth cost limitations for the vehicle theft prevention standard with respect to manufacturers of applicable vehicles and parts. Authorizes the Secretary to grant exemptions from such standard to vehicle lines equipped with approved antitheft devices. Sets forth compliance provisions for manufacturers of passenger motor vehicles or of passenger motor vehicle equipment. Specifies civil and criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Sets forth confidentiality provisions with respect to information obtained by the Secretary which relates to trade secrets. Declares that a Federal motor vehicle standard supercedes any State or local standard. Requires insurers of motor vehicles to annually report specified information to the Secretary with respect to thefts and recoveries of motor vehicles and vehicle parts. Permits the Secretary to exempt insurers from such requirement upon determining that the cost of such reporting is excessive to the insurer and insignificant for purposes of this title. Authorizes the Secretary to exempt small insurers from such requirement. Defines "small insurers" for purposes of this title. Requires insurers to report to the Secretary if, in paying claims, the insurer reduces any claim payment by the amount of any recovered part subject to the theft standard. Authorizes the Secretary to promulgate a voluntary vehicle theft prevention standard under which persons may affix identifications on major parts of their own vehicles and register such identifications with the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to submit reports to Congress within three years of enactment of this title, and five years after promulgation of the standard, on studies regarding motor vehicle theft. Specifies information to be included in such reports and requires both reports to make legislative recommendations with respect to the standard. Directs the Secretary, not later than one year after enactment of this Act, to report to Congress regarding vehicle security devices and systems, including legislative recommendations. Title II: Antifencing Measures - Amends the Federal criminal code to establish penalties for removing or altering any identification number of any motor vehicle or motor vehicle part required by regulation. Requires the forfeiture of any vehicle or part which has had such number removed, with specified exceptions. Applies to the seizure and forfeiture of motor vehicles and parts those provisions of law relating to the seizure and forfeiture of vessels and merchandise under the customs laws. Establishes penalties for anyone who buys, receives, possesses, or obtains control of, with intent to sell or otherwise dispose of, any motor vehicle or motor vehicle part knowing that such identification number has been removed or altered. Title III: Importation and Exportation Measures - Establishes criminal and civil penalties for anyone who imports, exports, or attempts to import or export any motor vehicle, off-highway vehicle, or vehicle part knowing that it has been stolen or that its identification number has been altered. Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to require persons who export or attempt to export a used motor vehicle or off-highway mobile equipment to present to the appropriate customs officers the vehicle and a document describing that vehicle. Authorizes customs officers to exchange information concerning such vehicles with law enforcement organizations.
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1984
Comprehensive Nuclear Weapons Freeze and Arms Reduction Act of 1984 - Provides for the establishment of a comprehensive freeze by the United States and the Soviet Union on the testing, production, and deployment of any nuclear weapon, delivery system, or any subsystem or component for a nuclear warhead, weapon, or delivery system (the comprehensive freeze). Directs the House and Senate Select Intelligence Committees to begin oversight hearings on verification procedures for the comprehensive freeze. Requires such committees to report to their respective Houses within 90 days of enactment of this Act on the adequacy of U.S. verification procedures. Sets forth information to be included in the report. Requires the Director of the Arms Control Disarmament Agency to begin preparing an operational plan for U.S. implementation of the comprehensive freeze within 120 days of enactment of this Act. Directs the Director to submit the plan to specified congressional committees within 60 days of enactment of this Act. Declares that the President should: (1) invite the Soviet Union to participate in a comprehensive bilateral and verifiable nuclear weapons freeze; and (2) encourage the Soviet Union to write to the United States whether it intends to implement the comprehensive freeze. Requires the President, 120 days after enactment of this Act, to direct the implementation by the United States of the comprehensive freeze which shall continue so long and to the extent that the Soviet Union acts in a reciprocal mannner. Requires the President to certify to the Congress the nature of Soviet noncompliance with the freeze, all relevant evidence, and his recommendations for the U.S. response if the President finds evidence that the Soviet Union is not acting in a reciprocal mannner. Requires the appropriate congressional committees to report a bill setting forth the extent to which the United States should modify its participation in the comprehensive freeze. Declares that the United States and the Soviet Union should begin nuclear arms reduction negotiations as soon as the comprehensive freeze is implemented.
United States · United States Congress · 10 August 1984
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exempt from the application of imputed interest rules: (1) the first $250,000 of the sale price of residential property sold by an individual; (2) the first $1,000,000 of the sale price of farm property; and (3) the first $500,000 of the sale price of business, trade, or investment property.
United States · United States Congress · 9 August 1984
Broadcast Station Ownership Act of 1984 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit the Federal Communications Commission from approving an application for a television broadcasting station license or for the transfer of any such license if such approval would result in the applicant controlling: (1) television broadcasting stations the aggregate signals of which can be received by more than 30 percent of U.S. television households; or (2) very high frequency television broadcasting stations the aggregate signals of which can be received by more than 25 percent of such households. Prohibits the Commission from approving an application for a radio or television broadcasting station license or license transfer if such approval would result in the applicant controlling a certain combination of television stations, amplitude modulation radio stations, and frequency production radio stations as determined according to a specified formula. Establishes higher limitations on station ownership with respect to minority controlled stations in which a person has an ownership interest of not more than 49 percent. Directs the Commission to report to Congress in ten years on the effectiveness of this Act in: (1) promoting opportunities for ownership of local broadcast properties by minorities and small businesses; (2) preserving diversity of broadcast station ownership; and (3) promoting greater competition in the production and distribution of broadcast programming.
United States · United States Congress · 9 August 1984
Broadcasting Public Responsibility and Deregulation Act of 1984 - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit the Federal Communications Commission from restricting the amount, length, or frequency of commercial announcements broadcast by a commercial radio or television broadcast station licensee. Directs the Commission to require a licensee to ascertain the problems, needs, and interests of the residents of its service area and to indicate its programs which address such concerns in public file documentation. Prohibits the Commission from establishing any particular procedure for such ascertainment. Directs the Commission to require a licensee to maintain program logs sufficient to demonstrate compliance with such Act and to make such logs available for public inspection. Prohibits the Commission from prescribing a particular format for such logs. Requires the Commission to report to Congress on the amount of each of specified categories of radio programming broadcast by commercial radio stations in markets of various sizes during the year beginning 30 days after enactment of this Act. Prohibits the Commission from considering the application of any other person when acting upon any application for renewal of a radio or television broadcast station license. Requires the Commission to grant a licensee's application for renewal if it finds that, during the preceding term of the license: (1) in the case of any television broadcast licensee, the licensee has addressed through its program service the problems, needs, and interests of children, minority groups, elderly individuals, and other residents of its service area; (2) in the case of any other broadcast licensee, the licensee has addressed through its program service the concerns of residents of its service area; (3) the licensee has not committed a serious violation of the Communications Act of 1934; and (4) the licensee has not committed minor violations which could constitute a pattern of abuse. Directs the Commission to establish public interest programming requirements for television stations based on: (1) whether a station is a very high frequency or an ultra high frequency station; (2) whether a station is affiliated with any major network; (3) the size of the market served by a station; and (4) the amount of specified types of public interest programming broadcast by a station as determined by a station rating system. Provides that such requirements shall: (1) specify the minimum amount of local programs and informational programming required to be broadcast by any television station; and (2) provide for an increase in the amount of both such types of programming broadcast by each category of station after six o'clock ante meridiem and before midnight. Directs the Commission to review the programming broadcast by each television station during calendar year 1983 to determine the amount of such increase. Authorizes the Commission to grant a three-year exception from such requirements to new stations. Prohibits the Commission from requiring stations to broadcast any type or amount of programming in excess of that required by this Act until January 1, 1995. Directs the Commission to report to Congress by such date on the effectiveness of such public interest programming requirements. Directs the Commission to: (1) require that each television licensee maintain and make publicly available records of its compliance with such requirements; (2) conduct an annual audit of at least 15 percent of all television stations, selected at random, to determine whether a station failed to comply with such requirments; (3) determine whether any complaint alleging that a station has violated such requirements has sufficient basis to justify the initiation of proceedings for imposition of a forfeiture penalty or license revocation against any licensee; and (4) take final agency action on any such proceedings within 180 days after initiation. Directs the Commission to revoke the license of a licensee who has committed two or more violations of such requirements during a five-year period, excluding any violation which the licensee proves: (1) was beyond the licensee's control; (2) occurred because compliance with the requirements would have resulted in extreme hardship; or (3) occurred because of a good faith but erroneous belief that particular programming qualified as public interest programming. Directs the Commission to impose a forfeiture penalty of up to $100,000 for each violation of such requirements. Authorizes the Commission to issue a remedial order requiring the licensee to broadcast public interest programming exceeding otherwise applicable requirements to assure that the licensee has provided the residents of its service area the requisite level of such programming. Directs the Commission, within 180 days after a petitioner's request, to investigate the basis of a petition to deny an application for license renewal, or to provide reasonable opportunity and means for the petitioner to do so, before deciding whether to designate the matter for hearing, unless: (1) the petitioner has failed to provide sufficient evidence to show that a factual uncertainty may exist regarding the basis for license renewal; and (2) information beyond that contained in the pleading is not required for the Commission to make an informed decision regarding the license renewal. Prohibits such a petitioner and the license applicant, without the Commission's approval, to effectuate an agreement whereby the petitioner withdraws the petition in exchange for something of value from the applicant. Permits the Commission to approve such agreement only if: (1) the agreement is consistent with the public interest, convenience, or necessity; and (2) the petitioner did not file its petition to obtain such agreement. Authorizes the Commission to revoke a station license or construction permit for: (1) conditions that would warrant the denial of license renewal; (2) willful or repeated violation of fairness doctrine requirements; or (3) failure to comply with public interest programming requirements. Directs the Commission to investigate submitted information indicating a violation which would warrant license revocation and to decide, within 90 days after such information is submitted, whether to order the licensee to show cause why the license should not be revoked. Requires the Commission to establish rules and procedures to ensure that in the granting of any broadcast station license or construction permit, except when using the random selection system: (1) preference shall be granted to any applicant the majority interest in which is owned by one or more members of a minority group; and (2) stronger preference shall be granted to such an applicant which provides that station operations will be under the direct supervision and management of one or more minority group members having ownership interests. Prohibits the Commission from granting any application for the transfer, assignment, or other disposition of such license or permit for three years after the license or permit is awarded. Requires any radio or television broadcast station licensee and any person engaged primarily in the management or operation of any such station to establish, maintain, and execute an equal employment opportunity program. Sets forth program terms and requirements, including reporting requirements, with respect to the programs of such entities with more than five full-time employees. Directs the Commission to deny or revoke the license of an station if it finds after notice and hearing that the entity involved has willfully or repeatedly without good cause failed to comply with program requirements. Establishes penalties for failing to comply with such requirements. Permits employees or applicants for employment who believe they have been discriminated against in violation of program requirements to file a complaint with the Commission. Requires Commission regulations to specify procedures for investigating such complaints and enforcing program requirements.
United States · United States Congress · 9 August 1984
Amends the Foreign Assistance and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 1985 to require that: (1) at least five percent of the funds earmarked for the Agency for International Development shall be available only for the delivery of primary health care services and basic health education, training for health care workers, and medical supplies and equipment for primary health care, with such assistance to be provided through private and voluntary organizations and international organizations wherever appropriate; (2) not more than one-third of the amount allocated for such services may be used in any one country; and (3) funds allocated to carry out these provisions shall remain available until September 30, 1986.
United States · United States Congress · 6 August 1984
Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to require the Secretary of Transportation to restore the Federal bumper standard as it existed on January 1, 1982. Declares that the Secretary is not prohibited from imposing a stricter standard than the standard to be restored.
United States · United States Congress · 6 August 1984
Fair Reduction-in-Force Practices Act of 1984 - Prohibits any executive agency, the Government Printing Office, or the Library of Congress from conducting a reduction in force unless it cannot respond to the reason for the need for a proposed reduction in force by: (1) instituting general cost-reduction measures; (2) establishing practical programs for eliminating inefficient or wasteful agency practices; (3) transferring funds between agency programs and activities; (4) reassigning employees to other positions within the agency, positions funded by trust or revolving fund accounts, or positions with a State or local government; (5) transferring or detailing employees; or (6) limiting the hours of intermittent employees and reducing the use of temporary employees. Requires an agency head to notify the exclusive representative of any unit having an employee who would be affected by a proposed reduction in force of any determination of a need for a reduction in force. Sets forth procedures governing collective bargaining over a reduction in force. Prohibits an agency from conducting a reduction in force unless: (1) after satisfying the previous requirements of this Act, it submits a report concerning the proposed reduction in force to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM); and (2) OPM certifies on the basis of such report that the requirements of this Act have been met. Requires the report to OPM to: (1) describe the actions to be taken, the reasons the reduction in force is necessary, all alternatives and proposals considered and implemented, and the anticipated impact of the proposed reduction in force on the operations and management of the agency; (2) provide any views and recommendations submitted by employee or management representatives; (3) indicate the estimated total cost to the Government of the proposed reduction in force; and (4) compare the estimated savings, over three years, anticipated through the proposed reduction in force with the estimated savings anticipated through the alternatives and proposals considered and implemented. Requires such reports to be submitted to specified congressional committees and made available to certain subcommittees. Permits an agency to issue notice of a proposed reduction in force to employees no earlier than ten days after OPM certifies that the requirements of this Act have been met. Entitles an affected employee to at least 30 days' advance notice. Requires such notice to specify: (1) the personnel action to be taken and its effective date; (2) the information used in determining the employee's standing in the competition for retention; (3) the place where and time when the employee may inspect records pertaining to his or her case; (4) any exceptions to the general order of release; and (5) the employee's right to appeal to the Merit Systems Protection Board or to use any negotiated grievance procedure available. Directs OPM to establish a Government-wide placement register for each occupational category. Requires the name of each employee specifically notified of a reduction in force to be placed on the register for each occupation for which the employee is qualified. Directs OPM to prescribe regulations prohibiting an agency from filling a vacant position by a new appointment, transfer, reemployment, reassignment, or promotion unless the agency determines that there is no qualified individual on the appropriate register. Directs OPM to match each individual on the register with the available position for which the individual is best suited and, if the individual is qualified for more than one position, with the position which would be the least disruptive for the individual (considering the duties, pay, work schedule, and location of the position). Requires each individual to be offered an appointment to the position to which he or she has been matched unless the agency offering such position objects on the ground that appointment of another person is necessary to prevent substantial disruption to an essential agency function or to increase the percentage of women and minorities in the work force to the percentage as of April 1, 1981. Entitles an individual to remain on appropriate placement registers and to be considered for employment for two years. Requires the individual's name to be removed from such registers if: (1) the individual requests that he or she no longer be considered for employment; (2) the personnel action under the proposed reduction in force does not take effect; (3) the individual accepts an offer of an appointment under this Act; or (4) the individual is offered a position within the same commuting area and with the same pay, grade, and work schedule as the position from which the individual was released. Entitles individuals who have been affected by or notified of a reduction in force since April 1, 1981, to be placed on registers upon application. Requires OPM to prescribe regulations prohibiting an agency from filling a vacant position by new appointment, transfer, reemployment, reassignment, or promotion, even if there is no qualified individual on the retention registers, if there is available a person who, notwithstanding any minimum qualification requirements for the position: (1) receives specific notice of a proposed reduction in force and applies for consideration for vacant positions; (2) meets the educational requirements for the position; and (3) can reasonably be expected to satisfactorily perform the duties of such position within 180 days of appointment (with training, if necessary). Prohibits an agency from evaluating the performance of such an employee before 180 days after the employee is appointed. Allows the agency, after such period, to remove such employee for unacceptable performance. Disqualifies from such assignment program any individual who fails to achieve an acceptable performance rating in two consecutive positions. Permits individuals who have been notified of or affected by a reduction in force since April 1, 1981, to be assigned under such program upon application. Directs OPM to require agencies to transmit, at least monthly, a list of the employees notified of a reduction in force and a list of positions the agency plans to fill during the next six months. Requires OPM to make a list of all such positions available to such employees for inspection. Requires OPM to submit biannual reports to the President and to specified congressional committees on the implementation of the provisions of this Act. Sets forth requirements concerning the contents of such reports.
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1984
Motor Vehicle Safety Amendments of 1984 - Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to prohibit the registration or licensing of motor vehicles when the ownership is transferred in interstate commerce unless: (1) the application for a new certificate of title is accompanied by the prior owner's most recent registration card and title; and (2) the new certificate of title is printed in a specified manner indicating the odometer mileage. Increases the criminal penalty for violations of odometer requirements from one to three years maximum imprisonment. Amends the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 to authorize a tire dealer or distributor whose business is not owned or controlled by a tire manufacturer to elect to be subject to tire registration requirements. Revises the restrictions on certain imported vehicles that do not conform to Federal standards. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to exempt certain motor vehicles or equipment from such restrictions for purposes of research, investigation, study, demonstration, training, national security, or completion in the United States of an incomplete foreign-built vehicle or equipment item. Prohibits dealers from selling defective motor vehicles or motor vehicle equipment. Imposes criminal penalties upon manufacturers who knowingly and willfully fail to notify owners or purchasers of motor vehicle safety defects or of failures to comply with motor vehicle safety standards. Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to direct the Secretary to promulgate Federal motor vehicle safety standards: (1) establishing passenger car crashworthiness rating and labeling requirements; and (2) establishing passenger motor vehicle bumper system rating and labeling requirements. Establishes the position of Associate Deputy Administrator for Motor Carrier Safety in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to carry out any delegated duty related to motor carrier safety. Directs the Secretary to arrange with the National Academy of Sciences to conduct a study of the effectiveness of State motor vehicle safety inspection programs in reducing highway accidents and limiting the number of defective or unsafe motor vehicles on the highways. Requires completion of the study and transmittal to Congress by September 1, 1985.
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 1984
Expresses the sense of the Congress that Taiwan should continue and accelerate progress toward a democratic system by ending martial law and by releasing political prisoners and otherwise guaranteeing and protecting the rights of the Taiwan people.
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1984
States that the House of Representatives disapproves the appointment of Anne M. Burford as Chairperson of the National Advisory Committee on Oceans and Atmosphere, and urges the President to withdraw her appointment.
![Official portrait of Sen. Wirth, Timothy [D-CO]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/w000647_200.jpg)