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Bill· HRH.R. 13382 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1976
Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make loans available, through the Agricultural Credit Insurance Fund, to agricultural producers who suffer losses as a result of having their agricultural commodities or livestock quarantined or condemned because such commodities or livestock have been found to contain toxic chemicals dangerous to the public health.
Bill· HRH.R. 13407 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1976
Peanut Reform Act - Title I: Peanuts - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, under the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938, to establish for the 1976 through 1980 peanut crops a national acreage allotment which will produce an amount of peanuts equal to the estimated domestic edible and related consumption less imports. States that the national acreage allotment shall not be less than 1,000,000 acres for the 1976 and 1977 crops; 660,000 acres for the 1978 crop; 330,000 for the 1979 crop; and zero acres for the 1980 crop. States that the national acreage allotment shall be allocated to the States and farms on the basis of peanut allotments established for the preceding crop. Allows a maximum of one percent of such allotment to be reserved for new peanut farms meeting specified criteria. Directs that if the total acreage used on a farm for peanuts is less than 90 percent of the peanut allotment, then the allotment for the succeeding crop shall be reduced proportionately, to a maximum of 20 percent of the farm allotment for the preceding crop. Includes as acreage planted for peanuts farm land which was not used for peanut growing because of drought, flood, or other condition beyond the producer's control. Terminates the peanut allotment for any farm on which no peanut acreage has been planted for three consecutive crop years. Prohibits the reduction of allotment if the producer elects not to receive payments for the portion of the allotment not planted provided under the Agricultural Act of 1949. Allows the transfer of peanut acreage allotments from one farm or county to another if none or only a portion of the farm allotment can be timely planted in such farm or county because of a natural disaster or condition beyond the control of the producer. States that for purposes of establishing future allotments any allotment transferred in this manner shall be regarded as planted to peanuts on the farm from which the transfer was made. Authorizes the intrastate transfer or sale of such acreage allotments from one owner or operator of a farm to another. Provides that any peanut acreage planted in excess of the authorized allotment shall not be taken into account in establishing future acreage allotments. Establishes, under the Agricultural Act of 1949, a price support for peanuts at 15 cents per pound for the 1976 and 1977 crop. Allows adjustments in such price for the 1977, 1978, and 1979 crop. Directs the Secretary to make loans and purchases available on each of the 1976 through 1980 crops at a level not less than 12 cents per pound. Sets forth a formula for such payments. Authorizes the Secretary to provide for a set-aside of cropland if the total supply of peanuts is likely to be excessive without such set-aside. Sets forth conditions for payments under such set- aside. Authorizes the Secretary to make land diversion payments to assist in adjusting the acreage of peanuts to desirable goals to cooperators on a farm who devote to approved conservation uses an acreage of cropland. Requires cooperators to take measures to protect set-aside acreage and diverted acreage from erosion, insects, weeds, and rodents. Allows the Secretary to pay an appropriate share of the cost of such practices. Authorizes the Secretary to make further payments on farm acreage used for the benefit of the general public. Directs the Secretary to provide adequate safeguards to protect the interests of tenant and sharcroppers, including provisions for sharing in the payments authorized under this Act. Requires that peanut programs under this Act be carried out by the Commodity Credit Corporation. Title II: Miscellaneous - Amends specified Acts to carry out the purposes of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 13375 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1976
National Food Stamp Reform Act - Redefines the meaning of the term "food" as used in the Food Stamp Act of 1964 to include seeds and plants for garden use. Redefines the term "household" to delete the requirement that individuals sharing common living quarters be related in order to qualify as a household. Defines the term "nutritionally adequate diet" for purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to establish uniform national standards of eligibility for participation by households in the food stamp program. States that no household shall be eligible if its income exceeds the income poverty guidelines for a household of its size as prescribed by the Office of Management and Budget. Sets forth standards by which the income of a household shall be determined. Excludes from gross income Federal, State, and local taxes, and necessary expenses incurred in self-employment. Establishes limits on the value of liquid and nonliquid assets owned or being purchased by a household for purposes of determining eligibility. Specifies types of holdings which are to be included in determining the value of the household's assets. Authorizes the Secretary to establish temporary emergency eligibility standards for households which are victims of a disaster. States that no household shall be eligible for participation in the food stamp program which includes an able-bodied adult between the ages of 18 and 65 who: (1) incurs a reduction of income as a result of voluntarily reducing his or her number of hours of employment without good cause; (2) fails to register for employment at a State or Federal employment office; (3) has refused to accept employment or public work within 30 miles of the person's principal residence; or (4) fails to actively seek employment. Excludes from this class of ineligible individuals mothers with dependent children, primary or secondary school students, postsecondary level students or trainees employed part-time, enrollees in a drug addiction or alcoholic treatment program, and persons working at least 30 hours per week. States that refusal to work at a plant site because of a strike or other labor dispute shall be deemed to be a refusal to accept employment. Declares that no person shall be eligible who is not a citizen or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence. States that no individual shall be considered a household member for food stamp program purposes who: (1) has reached his 18th birthday; (2) is enrolled in an institution of higher education; and (3) is properly claimed or could be claimed as a dependent by a taxpayer who is not a member of a dependent household. Declares that no household that knowingly transfers liquid or nonliquid assets for the purpose of qualifying or attempting to qualify for the food stamp program shall be eligible to participate in the program for a minimum of 90 days. States that no individual shall be eligible for participation in the food stamp Program who resides in a State in which the Supplemental Security Income benefits has been increased specifically to include the bonus value of food coupon allotments. Requires food coupons to be designed with spaces for the user to sign upon receipt and redemption. Requires coupon users to present suitable identification, including signature and photograph, when redeeming coupons at approved food stores. States that the value of the food coupon allotment to which eligible households will be entitled shall be an amount sufficient to allow a household to purchase a nutritionally adequate diet. Requires the semi-annual adjustment of the value of an allotment based on changes in the cost of living. Sets the charge for a household coupon allotment at 30 percent of the household's monthly income. Establishes procedures by which manufacturers or processors may have their products approved for purchase with food coupons by the Secretary. Provides for the placement of notice of such approval on food containers. Requires State agencies administering the food stamp program to conduct nutrition education programs for food coupon recipients. Establishes a plan whereby the States will pay two and one-half percent of the bonus value of the food coupon allotments made to State residents each month of fiscal year 1977, with an additional two and one-half percent added annually until the States pay ten percent of such bonus value each year.
Bill· HRH.R. 13349 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1976
Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to inspect and grade apples which are to be distributed in commerce and to adopt and use official marks to certify the grade of such apples. Prohibits the distribution in commerce of apples not so inspected and graded. Sets forth criminal penalties for violations of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 13351 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1976
Defines terms for purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make loans available through the Agricultural Credit Insurance Fund to agricultural producers who suffer losses as a result of having their agricultural commodities or livestock quarantined or condemned because such commodities or livestock have been found to contain toxic chemicals dangerous to the public health.
Bill· HRH.R. 13319 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1976
Establishes a Bureau of Agricultural Statistics within the Department of Agriculture. States that the Bureau shall obtain information with regard to: (1) the prices received by producers and processors of agricultural commodities; and (2) the wholesale and retail prices of food. Directs the Bureau to issue a report to the Congress containing a summary of such information and recommendations for legislation to provide lower retail prices when the prices received by producers of any agricultural commodity are decreasing or remaining constant and the retail prices of food made from such commodity are increasing. Places such Bureau under the direction of a Commissioner of Agricultural Statistics to be appointed by the President. Directs such Commissioner to recommend to Congress legislation providing any mandatory reporting requirement the Commissioner deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 13286 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1976
Stipulates that the amount of a loss deduction under the Internal Revenue Code shall be, in the case of crops or livestock, the larger of either the adjusted basis of such property or, in the case of crops, all expenses attributable to the production of such crops, whether or not such expenses are otherwise deductible, or in the case of livestock, their fair market value immediately prior to the damage or loss where the loss results from a disaster deemed by the President of the United States to warrant assistance by the Federal Government under the Disaster Relief Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 13266 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1976
Sets forth the price support levels for the 1976 and 1977 crops of corn, oats, rye, sorghum, barley, wheat, soybeans, and flaxseed. Sets forth the target price for such crop years for corn, sorghum, and wheat. States that the interest rates on producer's commodity loans for the 1976 and 1977 crops of corn, barley, oats, rye, sorghum, wheat, soybeans, and flaxseed shall not exceed five percent per annum.
Bill· HRH.R. 13287 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1976
Makes emergency loans, under the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, available to farmers regardless of their ability to obtain the required financial assistance from other sources. States that the interest rate on such loans shall be five percent and that the maximum repayment period shall be 30 years. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to pay the principal and interest for the first year of the term of a loan made or insured under such Act and to defer payments for such time if the Secretary is the holder of a note for such loan. Authorizes the Secretary to defer payments on loans made under the rural housing loan program of the Housing Act of 1949 in the case of loss or damage caused by a disaster. Authorizes the Secretary to grant loans for repair or replacement of property damaged or destroyed by such disaster regardless of whether financial assistance is otherwise available to the extent that such loss is not compensated by insurance or otherwise and to refinance mortgages or other liens outstanding against such property.
Bill· HRH.R. 13283 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1976
Renames the Federal Crop Insurance Act as the Federal Commodity Insurance Act and the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation as the Federal Commodity Insurance Corporation. Makes commodity insurance available on an economically sound basis to all counties and all commodities. Direct the Corporation to pay 50 percent of the premium cost of commodity insurance issued to any individual under such Act. Repeals the present appropriations ceiling under such Act and authorizes such sums as may be necessary to cover the costs of the Corporation, including such Federal premium payments.
Bill· SS. 3299 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Amends the Soil Conservation and Domestic Allotment Act to revise policy directives for Federal financial assistance to agricultural producers under such Act. Requires that eligibility criteria for the receipt of such assistance take into consideration: (1) the need to control erosion and sedimentation; (2) national environmental policy priorities; (3) encouragement of voluntary compliance to solve nonpoint source pollution problems; (4) conservation measures likely to provide a return in the form of increased production or increased land values; and (5) contribution to the national objective of adequate food and fiber for maintenance of a strong and healthy people and economy. Stipulates that funds appropriated for such purposes may not be utilized to assist drainage on officially-designated wetlands areas. Stipulates that payments shall be allotted to landlords, tenants, and sharecroppers in proportion to the contribution of each group to the cost of conservation and environmental enhancement measures.
Bill· HRH.R. 13245 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Stipulates that no rule or regulation which is issued pursuant to the Food Stamp Act of 1964 and which is to become effective after February 13, 1976, shall become effective until the enactment of legislation after the date of enactment of this Act with respect to the eligibility and purchase requirements of persons receiving benefits under the Food Stamp Act of 1964.
Bill· HRH.R. 13201 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Amends the Federal Meat Inspection Act to require that imported meat and meat food products made in whole or in part of imported meat be labeled "imported" or "imported in part" at all stages of distribution until delivery to the ultimate consumer.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 1153 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Directs the House Committee on Agriculture to investigate allegations made by sugar beet growers in Nebraska that the sugar company with which they have contracted in prior years is forcing them to accept unfair contract terms because such company is the only reasonable source available to them for the sale of their commodity. Directs the Committee to examine the extent to which such company is or has been engaging in monopolistic or other unfair trade practices in dealing with the growers; and the extent to which the company is involved with competitive sources of sugar.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 1151 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Directs the House Committee on Agriculture to investigate allegations made by sugar beet growers in Wyoming that the sugar company with which they have contracted in prior years is forcing them to accept unfair contract terms because such company is the only reasonable source available to them for the sale of their commodity. Directs the Committee to examine the extent to which such company is or has been engaging in monopolistic or other unfair trade practices in dealing with the growers; and the extent to which the company is involved with competitve sources of sugar.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 615 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 April 1976
Recognizes the right to a nutritionally adequate diet as a cornerstone of United States policy in areas such as trade, assistance, monetary reform and military spending. Seeks to improve food assistance programs in the United States. Calls for an increase in this nation's assistance for self-help development among the world's poorest people. Sets a target of one percent of our total national production to be spent for such assistance.
Bill· SS. 3284 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 April 1976
Prohibits increases in fees charged for commercial grazing on public or national forest lands unless: (1) a study has been conducted by the Bureau of Land Management to determine the economic impact of the proposed increase on livestock producers; and (2) neither House of Congress passes a resolution disapproving the increase within 60 days of receiving the report of such study.
Bill· SS. 3275 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1976
Peanut Act - Provides, under the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938, for a national acreage allotment of not less than 1,247,000 acres for the 1977 crop of peanuts. States that the farm yield for such crop shall be determined on a basis equal to 96 percent of the average actual yield per acre on the farm for the three highest yield years out of the five years preceding the year such yield determination is made. Provides that if peanuts were not produced on such farm in at least three years of such five-year period, the Secretary of Agriculture shall have a yield appraised at 90 percent of the yields established for similar farms. Establishes a farm marketing quota for such peanut crop equal to the quantity determined by multiplying the farm peanut acreage allotment by the farm yield. Sets forth economic penalties for the marketing of non-quota peanuts or the marketing of peanuts in a larger quantity or higher grade or quality than could reasonably be produced from the quantity of peanuts or the grade acquired by handlers for marketing. States that only quota peanuts may be retained for use as seed on a farm and when so retained shall be considered as marketings of quota peanuts. Requires that all acreage planted to peanuts be measured and that the disposal of nonquota peanuts be supervised by area marketing associations designated pursuant to the Agricultural Act of 1949. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture under such Act to make price supports available to producers of the 1977 crop of peanuts through loans, purchases, or other operations on quota peanuts at a net level of not less than 70 percent of the parity price as of April 1, 1977, and on nonquota peanuts at not more than 60 percent of the loan and purchase level for quota peanuts or 90 percent of the estimated value of peanuts for crushing, export or both, whichever is lower. Directs the Commodity Credit Corporation to make warehouse storage loans available to marketing associations of specified producing areas which are selected and approved by the Corporation and which are operated primarily for the purpose of conducting such loan activities. Requires such associations to establish pools and maintain records by type for quota peanuts handled under loans and for nonquota peanuts produced within a contract between handler and producer. States that net gains on peanuts in such pool shall be distributed in proportion to the value of the peanuts placed in the pool by each grower. Provides that peanuts received under loan by such associations shall be offered for sale for domestic food and related uses. Sets forth the prices to be charged for such peanuts. Authorizes the sale for crushing or export of any peanuts received under loan which are not needed for domestic purposes. States that for the 1977 and subsequent crop of peanuts the Secretary shall permit the owner and operator of any farm for which a peanut acreage allotment is established to sell, lease, or transfer all or part of such allotment.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 429 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1976
Disapproves the President's action of February 19, 1976, directing the Secretary of Agriculture to issue amendments to the regulations governing the food stamp program, thereby altering the program without congressional authorization.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 609 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1976
Recognizes the right to a nutritionally adequate diet as a cornerstone of United States policy in areas such as trade, assistance, monetary reform and military spending. Seeks to improve food assistance programs in the United States. Calls for an increase in this nation's assistance for self-help development among the world's poorest people. Sets a target of one percent of our total national production to be spent for such assistance.
Bill· SS. 3263 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1976
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to establish the acreage of individually owned land which may eligibly receive project water as nonexcess acreage under Federal reclamation laws at 160 acres of class I land or the equivalent acreage of lands of lesser productive value as would be appropriate for an economic family-size farm. Requires the Secretary in establishing land classes to take into account factors including soil characteristics, crop adaptability, cost of crop production and soil characteristics.
Bill· HRH.R. 13101 (94th)failed
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1976
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to establish the acreage of individually owned land which may eligibly receive project water as nonexcess acreage under Federal reclamation laws at 160 acres of class I land or the equivalent acreage of lands of lesser productive value as would be appropriate for an economic family size farm. Requires the Secretary in establishing land classes to take into account factors including soil characteristics, crop adaptability, cost of crop production and soil characteristics.
Bill· HRH.R. 13099 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1976
Wheat and Wheat Foods Research and Nutrition Education Act - States that the purpose of this Act is to authorize and enable the creation of an orderly procedure, adequately financed through an assessment and voluntary contributions, for the development and initiation of an effective and continuous coordinated program of research and nutrition education designed to improve and enhance the quality and make the most efficient use of American wheat, processed wheat, and wheat end products to insure an adequate diet for all Americans. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to issue orders to effectuate the declared purpose of this Act. States that such orders shall include provisions: (1) for establishing projects for research and nutrition education for wheat and wheat products; (2) for establishing and carrying on research or studies with respect to the sale, distribution, marketing, and utilization of wheat and wheat products and the creation of new products; and (3) requiring that processors, distributors of processed wheat, and end product manufacturers maintain and make available for inspection such books and records as may be required by any order issued pursuant to this Act. Directs the Secretary to issue orders providing for the establishment of a Wheat Industry Council to: (1) administer and make rules and regulations to effectuate orders issued pursuant to this Act; (2) receive, investigate and report to the Secretary complaints of violations of such orders; and (3) recommend to the Secretary amendments to such orders. States that the membership of such Council shall represent wheat producers, processors, end product manufacturers and consumers on an equal basis. Requires each end product manufacturer to pay to such Council an assessment, not to exceed five cents per hundredweight, based on the total number of hundredweights of processed wheat purchased by or transferred to such manufacturer to be used for expenditures and expenses incurred by the Council or Secretary under this Act. Exempts from this Act any end product manufacturer who does not purchase more than 2,000 hundredweight of processed wheat per year for use in manufacture. Requires the Secretary to conduct a referendum among end product manufacturers to determine whether the issuance of an order under this Act is favored by such manufacturers. States that no such order shall become effective unless: (1) votes were cast by more than 50 percent of the registered end product manufacturers; and (2) not less than two-thirds of such voting manufacturers approve of such order or by a majority of such manufacturers if such majority manufacturerd not less than two-thirds of the total processed wheat contained in all end products manufactured by those voting in the referendum. Allows end product manufacturers who have reserved the right to seek refunds and who disfavor the programs under this Act to receive from the Council the assessment paid to such Council. Sets forth the procedures for the administrative and judicial review of orders or obligations imposed under this Act. States that any person who willfully violates any order issued under this Act or who fails to remit any required assessment or fee shall be liable to a civil penalty of not more than $1,000 per violation. Requires the Secretary to conduct a referendum on request by ten percent or more of the end product manufacturers to determine whether such manufacturers favor the suspension or termination of any order. States that such order shall be suspended or terminated if 50 percent of the voting manufacturers or manufacturers who produce end products containing more than 50 percent of the total processed wheat contained in all end products manufactured by those voting approve of such action. Authorizes the Secretary to make investigations for the effective carrying out of his or her responsibilities under this Act or to determine whether any person has or is about to violate any of the provisions of this Act. Sets forth the eligibility requirements for any organization wishing to: (1) participate in the nominating of Council members; (2) represent wheat producers, processors, end product manufacturers or consumers; and (3) request the issuance of an order under this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of such funds as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 13041 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1976
Defines terms for purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make loans available through the Agricultural Credit Insurance Fund to agricultural producers who suffer losses as a result of having their agricultural commodities or livestock quarantined or condemned because such commodities or livestock have been found to contain toxic chemicals dangerous to the public health.
Bill· HRH.R. 13029 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 April 1976
Establishes a Bureau of Agricultural Statistics within the Department of Agriculture. States that the Bureau shall obtain information with regard to: (1) the prices received by producers and processors of agricultural commodities; and (2) the wholesale and retail prices of food. Directs the Bureau to issue a report to the Congress containing a summary of such information and recommendations for legislation to provide lower retail prices when the prices received by producers of any agricultural commodity are decreasing or remaining constant and the retail prices of food made from such commodity are increasing. Places such Bureau under the direction of a Commissioner of Agricultural Statistics to be appointed by the President. Directs such Commissioner to recommend to Congress legislation providing any mandatory reporting requirement the Commissioner deems necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 13015 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 April 1976
Terminates the duty of the Secretary of Commerce to take agricultural censuses every five years and censuses of irrigation and drainage every ten years. Directs the Secretary to continue the statistical classification of farms which was in effect on January 1, 1975, until June 30, 1976. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to collect information on agriculture, irrigation, and drainage on a sample basis, which is comparable to the information previously collected every five years in the agriculutral census. Allows the Secretary, when sampling methods would be inappropriate, to use other statistical methods to collect information relating to the classification of farms. (Amends 13 U.S.C. 142)
Bill· HRH.R. 12964 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 April 1976
Peanut Act - Provides, under the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938, for a national acreage allotment of not less than 1,247,000 acres for the 1977 crop of peanuts. States that the farm yield for such crop shall be determined on a basis equal to 96 percent of the average actual yield per acre on the farm for the three highest yield years out of the five years preceding the year such yield determination is made. Provides that if peanuts were not produced on such farm in at least three years of such five-year period, the Secretary of Agriculture shall have a yield appraised at 90 percent of the yields established for similar farms. Establishes a farm marketing quota for such peanut crop equal to the quantity determined by multiplying the farm peanut acreage allotment by the farm yield. Sets forth economic penalties for the marketing of nonquota peanuts or the marketing of peanuts in a larger quantity or higher grade or quality than could reasonably be proved from the quality of peanuts or the grade acquired by handlers for marketing. States that only quota peanuts may be retained for use as seed on a farm and when so retained shall be considered as marketings of quota peanuts. Requires that all acreage planted to peanuts be measured and that the disposal of nonquota peanuts be supervised by area marketing associations designated pursuant to the Agricultural Act of 1949. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture under such Act to make price supports available to producers of the 1977 crop of peanuts through loans, purchases or other operations on quota peanuts at a net level of not less than 70 percent of the parity price as of April 1, 1977, and on nonquota peanuts at not more than 60 percent of the loan and purchase level for quota peanuts or 90 percent of the estimated value of peanuts for crushing, export, or both, whichever is lower. Directs the Commodity Credit Corportation to make warehouse storage loans available to marketing associations of specified producing areas which are selected and approved by the Corporation and which are operated primarily for the purpose of conducting such loan activities. Requires such associations to establish pools and maintain records by type for quota peanuts handled under loans and for nonquota peanuts produced without a contract between handler and producer. States that net gains on peanuts in such pool shall be distributed in proportion to the value of the peanuts placed in the pool by each grower. Provides that peanuts received under loan by such associations shall be offered for sale for domestic food and related uses. Sets forth the prices to be charged for such peanuts. Authorizes the sale for crushing or export of any peanuts received under loan which are not needed for domestic purposes. States that for the 1977 crop and subsequent crop of peanuts the Secretary shall permit the owner and operator of any farm for which a peanut acreage allotment is established to sell, lease, or transfer all or part of such allotment.
Bill· HRH.R. 12917 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1976
Provides that small farm extension and research and development programs under the Rural Development Act of 1972 shall consist of: (1) a comprehensive study and survey with procedures for updating such survey to identify small farmers and determine their resources, abilities, education, experience and willingness to upgrade their farm operations through improved agricultural production techniques, farm machinery, products and cooperative agricultural marketing practices; (2) the development and implementation of a program for improving the operations of such farmers; (3) procedures to evaluate the social and economic consequences of such program; (4) research and development for updating small farm operations; and (5) an annual report by the Secretary of Agriculture to specified Congressional committees regarding the extent and effectiveness of the objectives of such program. Defines "small farmer" as anyone who depends on farming as their primary source of income, and whose gross annual sales from farming operations is less than $20,000 and whose nonfarm income is less than $5,000.
Bill· HRH.R. 12909 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1976
Appropriates $1,500,000 for each of fiscal years 1977 through 1980, payments to be equally divided among the metropolitan areas of New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles, for cooperative agricultural extension work under the Smith-Lever Act for developing programs for urban gardening, food production, and food preservation.
Bill· HRH.R. 12890 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1976
Peanut Reform Act - Title I: Peanuts - Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, under the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938, to establish for the 1976 through 1980 peanut crops a national acreage allotment which will produce an amount of peanuts equal to the estimated domestic edible and related consumption less imports. States that the national acreage allotment shall not be less than 1,000,000 acres for the 1976 and 1977 crops; 660,000 acres for the 1978 crop; 330,000 for the 1979 crop; and zero acres for the 1980 crop. States that the national acreage allotment shall be allocated to the States and farms on the basis of peanut allotments established for the preceding crop. Allows a maximum of one percent of such allotment to be reserved for new peanut farms meeting specified criteria. Directs that if the total acreage used on a farm for peanuts is less than 90 percent of the peanut allotment, then the allotment for the succeeding crop shall be reduced proportionately, to a maximum of 20 percent of the farm allotment for the preceding crop. Includes as acreage planted for peanuts farm land which was not used for peanut growing because of drought, flood, or other condition beyond the producer's control. Terminates the peanut allotment for any farm on which no peanut acreage has been planted for three consecutive crop years. Prohibits the reduction of allotment if the producer elects not to receive payments for the portion of the allotment not planted provided under the Agricultural Act of 1949. Allows the transfer of peanut acreage allotments from one farm or county to another if none or only a portion of the farm allotment can be timely planted in such farm or county because of a natural disaster or condition beyond the control of the producer. States that for purposes of establishing future allotments any allotment transferred in this manner shall be regarded as planted to peanuts on the farm from which the transfer was made. Authorizes the intrastate transfer or sale of such acreage allotments from one owner or operator of a farm to another. Provides that any peanut acreage planted in excess of the authorized allotment shall not be taken into account in establishing future acreage allotments. Establishes, under the Agricultural Act of 1949, a price support for peanuts at 15 cents per pound for the 1976 and 1977 crop. Allows adjustments in such price for the 1977, 1978, and 1979 crop. Directs the Secretary to make loans and purchases available on each of the 1976 through 1980 crops at a level not less than 12 cents per pound. Sets forth a formula for such payments. Authorizes the Secretary to provide for a set-aside of cropland if the total supply of peanuts is likely to be excessive without such set-aside. Sets forth conditions for payments under such set- aside. Authorizes the Secretary to make land diversion payments to assist in adjusting the acreage of peanuts to desirable goals to cooperators on a farm who devote to approved conservation uses an acreage of cropland. Requires cooperators to take measures to protect set-aside acreage and diverted acreage from erosion, insects, weeds, and rodents. Allows the Secretary to pay an appropriate share of the cost of such practices. Authorizes the Secretary to make further payments on farm acreage used for the benefit of the general public. Directs the Secretary to provide adequate safeguards to protect the interests of tenant and sharcroppers, including provisions for sharing in the payments authorized under this Act. Requires that peanut programs under this Act be carried out by the Commodity Credit Corporation. Title II: Miscellaneous - Amends specified Acts to carry out the purposes of this Act.
Bill· SS. 3213 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 March 1976
Limits, with specified exceptions, the use of grazing fees collected by the Secretary of the Interior to the construction, purchase, and maintenance of range improvements.
Bill· SS. 3215 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 March 1976
Terminates the duty of the Secretary of Commerce to take agricultural censuses every five years and censuses of irrigation and drainage every ten years. Directs the Secretary to continue the statistical classification of farms which was in effect on January 1, 1975, until June 30, 1976. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to collect information on agriculture, irrigation, and drainage on a sample basis, which is comparable to the information previously collected evey five years in the agricultural census. Allows the Secretary, when sampling methods would be inappropriate, to use other statistical methods to collect information relating to the classification of farms. (Amends 13 U.S.C. 142)
Bill· HRH.R. 12808 (94th)reported
United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1976
Peanut Act - Provides, under the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938, for a national acreage allotment of not less than 1,247,000 acres for the 1977 crop of peanuts. States that the farm yield for such crop shall be determined on a basis equal to 96 percent of the average actual yield per acre on the farm for the three highest yield years out of the five years preceding the year such yield determination is made. Provides that if peanuts were not produced on such farm in at least three years of such five-year period, the Secretary of Agriculture shall have a yield appraised at 90 percent of the yields established for similar farms. Establishes a farm marketing quota for such peanut crop equal to the quantity determined by multiplying the farm peanut acreage allotment by the farm yield. Sets forth economic penalties for the marketing of nonquota peanuts or the marketing of peanuts in a larger quantity or higher grade or quality than could reasonably be proved from the quality of peanuts or the grade acquired by handlers for marketing. States that only quota peanuts may be retained for use as seed on a farm and when so retained shall be considered as marketings of quota peanuts. Requires that all acreage planted to peanuts be measured and that the disposal of nonquota peanuts be supervised by area marketing associations designated pursuant to the Agricultural Act of 1949. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture under such Act to make price supports available to producers of the 1977 crop of peanuts through loans, purchases or other operations on quota peanuts at a net level of not less than 70 percent of the parity price as of April 1, 1977, and on nonquota peanuts at not more than 60 percent of the loan and purchase level for quota peanuts or 90 percent of the estimated value of peanuts for crushing, export, or both, whichever is lower. Directs the Commodity Credit Corportation to make warehouse storage loans available to marketing associations of specified producing areas which are selected and approved by the Corporation and which are operated primarily for the purpose of conducting such loan activities. Requires such associations to establish pools and maintain records by type for quota peanuts handled under loans and for nonquota peanuts produced without a contract between handler and producer. States that net gains on peanuts in such pool shall be distributed in proportion to the value of the peanuts placed in the pool by each grower. Provides that peanuts received under loan by such associations shall be offered for sale for domestic food and related uses. Sets forth the prices to be charged for such peanuts. Authorizes the sale for crushing or export of any peanuts received under loan which are not needed for domestic purposes. States that for the 1977 crop and subsequent crop of peanuts the Secretary shall permit the owner and operator of any farm for which a peanut acreage allotment is established to sell, lease, or transfer all or part of such allotment.
Bill· HRH.R. 12825 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1976
Authorizes a maximum loan amount for guaranteed real estate loans, under the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, of $200,000 or the value of the farm or security, whichever is less. Revises the interest rate for specified loans under such Act. Increases the maximum loan limitation and revises the interest rate for operating loans under such Act. Provides for congressional authorization of program levels under such Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 12827 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1976
Provides for the relief of certain employees of the Department of Agriculture.
Bill· HRH.R. 12824 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 March 1976
Defines terms for purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make loans available through the Agricultural Credit Insurance Fund to agricultural producers who suffer losses as a result of having their agricultural commodities or livestock quarantined or condemned because such commodities or livestock have been found to contain toxic chemicals dangerous to the public health.
Bill· HRH.R. 12777 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1976
Food Stamp Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to formulate and administer a food stamp program under which, at the request of the State agency which administers federally aided public assistance programs, eligible households within the State shall be provided with an opportunity to obtain a nutritionally adequate diet through the issuance to them of a coupon allotment. Stipulates that coupons so received by such households shall be used only to purchase food from retail food stores which have been approved for participation in the food stamp program. Prohibits the distribution of federally donated foods in areas where a food stamp program is in operation except where such distribution is required to achieve an orderly transition to a food stamp program on an Indian reservation, or where distribution is made to meet disaster relief needs. Directs the Secretary to set forth uniform national standards by which the eligibility of households for participation in the food stamp program may be determined. States that, in determining the income of a household for the purpose of determining the household's eligibility to participate in the program, all income shall be calculated by focusing upon the income anticipated to be received in the certification period for which eligibility is being determined so as to ascertain as best as possible the income that will be actually available to a household. Specifies deductions which may be made from gross income in determining the income of a household. States that, for eligibility purposes, a household may possess up to $3,000 in liquid and nonliquid assets. Specifies allowable exemptions from such assets, including a household's home and lot, one licensed vehicle, and certain types of income-producing property. Precludes from being declared eligible under the program: (1) for a period of one year, any household which has been found quilty of fraud in connection with the program; (2) any household which refuses to provide required information with respect to a determination of eligibility; (3) any individual between the ages of 18 and 60 who refuses to register for work, to accept an offer of employment, or to continue in employment when such employment fulfills conditions specified in this Act; (4) any individual 18 years of age or older who is enrolled in an institution of higher education and who is properly claimed as a dependent child for Federal income tax purposes by an individual who is not a member of an eligible household; and (5) any individual who is not a resident of the United States and either a citizen or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence. States that the face value of the coupon allotment which State agencies shall be authorized to issue to any eligible households shall be equal to the cost to such households of a nutritionally adequate diet reduced by an amount equal to 30 percent of such household's income as determined pursuant to this Act. Stipulates that the value of the coupon allotment provided to any eligible household shall not be considered to be income or resources for any purpose under any Federal or State laws including, but not limited to, laws related to taxation, welfare, and public assistance programs. Provides for the approval of retail food stores and wholesale food concerns which desire to be authorized to accept and redeem coupons under the Food Stamp Act. Prohibits States and political subdivisions thereof from decreasing welfare grants to any individual or individuals because of such individual's participation in the food stamp program. Requires each State agency desiring to participate in the food stamp program to submit a plan of operation specifying the manner in which such program will be conducted within the State. Requires such plans to provide: (1) for action to inform low-income households of the program, including multilinqual announcements where necessary; (2) that each household requesting assistance under the program shall be permitted to file for assistance on the same day that the first request is made; (3) that the determination of eligibility shall be made within 15 days; and (4) for safeguards restricting the use or disclosure of information obtained from applicant households. Directs the Secretary and participating State agencies to carry out a program of nutritional education for recipient households. States that coupon allotments are to be issued at all postal facilities where postage stamps are sold. Provides for the review of the conduct of State food stamp programs by the Secretary. Sets forth remedial procedures. Provides for the disqualification of retail stores and wholesale food concerns for violation of State regulations. Establishes procedures for the administrative and judicial review of such disqualifications. Establishes criminal penalties for fraud in connection with the obtaining or sale of food coupons or authorization to purchase cards. Authorizes the Secretary to pay 65 percent of the administrative costs of the food stamp program. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct experimental projects designed to increase the efficiency of the food stamp program. Authorizes the appropriation of $35,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1977 through 1979 for the conduct of such programs. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for fiscal years 1977 through 1979 to carry out the provisions of this Act.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 885 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 March 1976
States that the purpose of this joint resolution is to provide hearings for farmers, local officials, and other concerned citizens in any county where a reduction in the level of farm services is anticipated. Prohibits the Secretary of Agriculture or any other officer or employee of the executive branch of the Federal Government from reducing the services provided by any office of the Farmer's Home Administration, the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service, or the Soil Conservation Service, during the period beginning January 1, 1976, and ending December 31, 1977, unless (1) a proposed plan for reducing services has been formulated and published, and (2) a hearing has been conducted in each county in the State in which Services would be reduced under the plan, and farmers in each such county have been afforded an opportunity for oral and written representation of their views. Excepts specified reductions in services from the requirements of this resolution.
Bill· HRH.R. 12745 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1976
Exempts from the Farm Labor Contractor Registration Act of 1963 contractors of workers engaged in custom cutting or combine operations in connection with the harvesting of grains and contractors of workers engaged in the shearing of sheep.
Bill· HRH.R. 12747 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1976
Establishes a National Commission on Food Production, Processing, Marketing, and Pricing, to be composed of nine members. Directs the Commission to study and appraise the economic and industrial structure of all segments of the food industry, including: (1) economic forecasts; (2) desirable structural changes in the various segments of the food industry; and (3) the effect of food imports and exports on producers, processors, and consumers in the United States. Requires the Commission to make such interim reports as it deems advisable, and to make a final report of its findings, recommendations, and conclusions to the President and to the Congress by July 1, 1978. Sets forth the powers of the Commission. Requires that, within six months following the filing of the final report, the Federal Trade Commission, the Department of Justice, and the Department of Agriculture shall each publish separate reports on the policy planning, budget allotments, investigations, complaints, indictments, litigation, and other actions of each agency with respect to the enforcement of the antitrust laws on the various sectors of the food industry. Directs the FTC and the Department of Justice to submit to the Congress and to publish in the Federal Register annual indices of the structure and the state of competition in the food industry. Authorizes appropriations to the Commission of up to $3,750,000 to carry out the purposes of this Act. Authorizes appropriations of up to $1,000,000 to the Federal Trade Commission to carry out the purposes of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 12748 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1976
Stipulates that no rule or regulation which is issued pursuant to the Food Stamp Act of 1964 and which is to become effective after February 13, 1976, shall become effective until the enactment of legislation after the date of enactment of this Act with respect to the eligibility and purchase requirements of persons receiving benefits under the Food Stamp Act of 1964.
Bill· HRH.R. 12710 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1976
Amends the Farm Labor Contractor Registration Act of 1963 to exempt from the registration requirements of such Act, persons employing fewer than ten individuals, who engage in contracting solely for the purpose of providing combine machine operating crews for the harvesting of grain or individuals for the shearing of sheep.
Bill· HRH.R. 12723 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 March 1976
Establishes, under the Agriculture Act of 1949, a loan level for the 1975, 1976, and 1977 crops of corn, cotton, and soybeans at 90 percent of the average price received by farmers during the marketing years for the preceding three crops of such commodities; and in the case of wheat 90 percent of the average price during such marketing years for the 1975, 1976, and 1977 crops of such commodity. Prohibits the Commodity Credit Corporation from selling these commodities from such crop years at a price less than 150 percent of the current national loan rate for the commodity involved with specified adjustments. Limits the sale of such commodities owned or controlled by the Corporation during any marketing year to the net quantities by which estimated domestic consumption and exports exceed estimated production and imports. Authorizes the Corporation to dispose of such commodities to relieve distress caused by natural disasters. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to buy and sell equivalent quantities of such commodities owned or controlled by the Corporation in different locations and warehouses for handling, rotational, and distribution purposes. Requires obligators, under warehouse receipts held by the Corporation representing ownership of any commodity, to have the grade stated on such receipts or a better grade available for delivery.
Bill· HRH.R. 12702 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1976
Defines terms for purposes of this Act. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make loans available through the Agricultural Credit Insurance Fund to agricultural producers who suffer losses as a result of having their agricultural commodities or livestock quarantined or condemned because such commodities or livestock have been found to contain toxic chemicals dangerous to the public health.
Bill· HRH.R. 12683 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1976
Exempts from the Farm Labor Contractor Registration Act of 1963 contractors of workers engaged in custom cutting or combine operations in connection with the harvesting of grains and contractors of workers engaged in the shearing of sheep.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 881 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1976
Designates the fourth Monday in March of each year as "National Agriculture Day".
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 882 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 March 1976
Designates the fourth Monday in March of each year as "National Agriculture Day".
Bill· SS. 3176 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Amends the Farm Labor Registration Act of 1963 to exempt from the registration requirements of such Act, persons who engage solely in the contracting of combine machine operating crews for the harvesting of grain or the contracting of individuals for the shearing of sheep.
Bill· HRH.R. 12637 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Repeals the revisions of the Official United States Standards with respect to the grading of carcass beef and slaughter cattle. States that no change shall become effective in grade designations or specifications for slaughter cattle or carcass beef which provides for a higher grade designation for such cattle or carcass than would exist under current standards. Authorizes and directs the Secretary of Agriculture to promulgate regulations to establish a different and non deceptive grade designation and specification for beef.
Bill· HRH.R. 12650 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to permit any person applying for assistance under such Act to employ a qualified attorney or title insurance company of such person's choice to perform services in connection with loans made or insured under such Act.