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Resolution· HRESH.Res. 758 (94th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 30 September 1975
Provides that upon the adoption of this resolution it shall be in order to move that the House resolve itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union for the consideration of the bill (H.R. 8672) to improve the reliability, safety, and energy efficienty of railroad transportation, and to reduce unemployment by providing funds for work in repairing, restoring, rehabilitating, and improving essential railroad roadbeds and facilities. Directs that after general debate, which shall be confined to the bill and shall continue not to exceed one hour, to be equally divided and controlled by the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce, the bill shall be read for amendment under the five-minute rule. Provides that it shall be in order to consider the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce now printed in the bill as an original bill for the purpose of amendment under the five-minute rule. Directs the committee, at the conclusion of such consideration, to rise and report the bill to the House with such amendments as may have been adopted, and states that any Member may demand a separate vote in the House on any amendment adopted in the Committee of the Whole to the bill or to the committee amendment in the nature of a substitute. Requires the previous question to be considered as ordered on the bill and amendments thereto without intervening motion except one motion to recommit with or without instructions. Provides that after the passage of H.R. 8672, the Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce shall be discharged from the further consideration of the bill S. 1730, ans it shall then be in order in the House to move to strike out all after the enacting clause of the said Senate bill and insert in lieu thereof the provisions contained in H.R. 8672 as passed by the House.
Bill· HRH.R. 9906 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 September 1975
National Coal Policy Act - Declares that it shall be the policy of the Federal Government to place major emphasis on the use of coal. Title I: Coal Substitution - Declares that national energy self-sufficiency can be facilitated by the substitution of coal for natural gas and petroleum products. Calls for coal to be utilized as a primary steam-generating fuel. Directs that all new electric powerplants should be equipped with the capability for utilizing coal. Calls for all existing fossil fuel burning electric powerplants not scheduled for retirement, to be utilizing coal as their primary energy source by the end of ten years, in conformance with applicable environmental requirements. Title II: Clean Air Act Amendments - States that it is the finding of the Congress that the Federal Government and the States should achieve a greater compatibility between energy requirements and environmental standards. Directs that where environmental regulations are more restrictive than necessary for the attainment of ambient air quality standards, action should be taken to reduce such requirements. Revises the criteria for granting variances from established regulations. Provides that technological and economic factors shall be given equal consideration with the environment. Title III: Utility Investment tax Credits - Allows electric utilities an investment tax credit under the Internal Revenue Code for construction of qualified facilities. Allows a one-year straight-line amortization under the Code for the installation of pollution control facilites in a pre-1969 plant and for conversion of a facility to nonpetroleum fuel. Allows a utility to elect to begin depreciation for purposes of Federal income income tax, during the construction period, of accumulated construction progress expenditures. Authorizes shareholders of regulated public electric utilities to postpone tax on dividends paid by the utility on its common stock by electing to take additional common stock of utility in lieu of cash dividends. Title IV: Assistance to Railroads - Authorizes low cost federal loans to railroads in serious financial difficulties. Allows a Federal income tax credit of twelve percent for construction of new facilities designed primarily for coal transportation. Allows a one-year writeoff for the cost of construction and improvements of facilities designed for coal transportation. Title V: Coal Pipeline Development - Authorizes railroads to operate coal pipelines on their right-of-way. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to grant certificates of public convience and necessity for such railroads to exercise the power of eminent domain in order to acquire necessary rights-of-way for pipeline construction. Title VI: Mining and Mineral Research and Manpower Training - Authorizes Federal grants, on a matching State fund basis, to public colleges and universities for programs dealing with mineral engineering, mining, mine safety, and mineral research. Title VII: Funding Authorizations For Coal Mining and Preparation Research - Authorizes the appropriation of $60,000,000 to the Bureau of Mines for a coal extraction technology program. Title VIII: Pilot Testing of Coal Land Reclamation Proposals - Authorizes the Bureau of Mines to make grants to States for reclamation research. Title IX: Synthetic Fuels Development Assistance - Allows a one-year amortization for purposes of Federal income tax, for the cost of construction of facilities designed for the purpose of developing synthetic fuels from coal. Authorizes the Federal Government to enter into long-term purchase contracts for synthetic fuels produced from coal. Title X: Writeoff for Coal Mine Equipment - Allows coal procedures to elect a one-year amortization for new coal mining equipment. Title XI: District, or Centralized, Heating Systems - Authorizes financial incentives such as guaranteed Federal loans, investment tax credits, and one-year tax writeoffs, for construction and operation of centralized heating systems. Title XII: Definitions and Report - Directs that the Secretary of the Interior shall have responsibility for carrying out the national coal policy. Requires the Secretary to include in his annual report the state of such program and recommendations for additional legislation as may be necessary to implement the policy of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 9903 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 September 1975
Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act Amendments - Revises the definition of the term "interstate transmission facilities" to exclude any facility which transports gas from an interstate gas pipeline to a direct sales customer purchasing gas for its own consumption. Defines the term "intrastate pipeline transportation" to include such facilities. States that the provisions of the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act shall not apply to intrastate pipeline transmission as defined in this Act when the safety standards applicable to such transmission are regulated by a State agency. Changes from March 17 to June 15 the date on which the Secretary of Transportation is required to present to the President an annual report on the administration of the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act. Extends through fiscal year 1977 the authorization of appropriations for the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 9888 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 September 1975
Natural Gas Supply Act - Title I: States that it is the purpose of this Act to authorize the President or his delegate, the Federal Power Commission, and the Federal Energy Administration to deal with existing and imminent shortages and dislocations of natural gas in the national distribution system which jeopardize the public health, safety, and welfare; to provide protection of natural gas service to customers who use natural gas for high priority end uses during periods of curtailed deliveries by natural gas companies; and to assure increased supplies of natural gas at reasonable prices. Title II: - Interstate Pipeline Emergency Natural Gas Purchases Act - Grants the Federal Power Commission authority to allow interstate pipeline companies with insufficient natural gas for their high priority consumers of natural gas to acquire natural gas from intrastate sources and other interstate pipeline companies on an emergency basis free from the provisions of the Natural Gas Act. Title III: - Curtailed Consumers Emergency Natural Gas Purchasers Act - Allows curtailed high priority consumers of natural gas to purchase natural gas from the intrastate market by enabling them to arrange for the transportation of such gas by regulated interstate pipeline companies. Title IV: Emergency Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act Amendments - Provides authority to the Federal Energy Administrator to prohibit the use of natural gas when petroleum products or coal can be substituted by powerplants and major fuel burning installations. Title V: - Propane Standby Allocation Act - Provides standby authority for the President to allocate propane during periods of actual or threatened severe shortages of natural gas. Title VI: - States that termination of the authorities granted under this Act shall not affect any action or pending proceedings, civil or criminal, not finally determined on such date, nor any action or proceeding based upon any act committed prior to such date. Title VII: - States that the Commission shall have no power to disallow, in whole or in part, in the rates and charges made, demanded, or received by any natural gas company the amounts paid for new natural gas, except that in any case where a natural gas company purchases natural gas from an affiliate or produces natural gas from its own properties, the Commission may disallow any portion of the cost thereof in the rate or charge made by such company which is in excess of current prices paid to nonaffiliates for comparable sales of new natural gas.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 749 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 September 1975
Establishes in the House of Representatives a Select Committee on Energy. Authorizes the committee to conduct a study with respect to all aspects of the exploration, research and development, production, importation, distribution, and use of all energy-related natural resources, including national priorities and policies with regard to energy.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 750 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 September 1975
Establishes in the House of Representatives a Select Committee on Energy. Authorizes the committee to conduct a study with respect to all aspects of the exploration, research and development, production, importation, distribution, and use of all energy-related natural resources, including national priorities and policies with regard to energy.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 267 (94th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 1975
Disapproves the deferral of budget authority for emergency energy conservation services, as proposed by the President to Congress on July 26, 1975.
Bill· HRH.R. 9877 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 1975
National Coal Production, Leasing, and Mine Reclamation Act - Title I: Amendments to the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920 - Revises the procedures followed by the Secretary of the Interior in leasing public lands for coal operations pursuant to the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920. Prohibits the holding of any lease sale unless the land containing the coal deposits has been included in a comprehensive land-use plan prepared by the Secretary, the Secretary of Agriculture, or a State, and it has been determined that such sale is compatible with such plan. Sets forth requirements governing the preparation of land use plans pursuant to such Act. Directs the Secretary to evaluate and compare the effects of recovering coal by deep mining, by surface mining, or any other method, to determine what method achieves the maximum economic recovery of the coal within a proposed leasing tract. Establishes provisions for the issuance of coal exploration licenses to commercial interests by the Secretary. States that a licensee may not cause substantial disturbance to the natural land surface and shall furnish to the Secretary copies of all data obtained during such exploration. Establishes a fine of up to $1,000 for each day of exploration conducted without a license. Sets the term of a coal lease at 20 years and for so long thereafter as coal is produced annually in commercial quantities from that lease. Requires the termination of leases which are not producing in commercial quantities at the end of ten years. States that, prior to taking any action on a leasehold which might cause a significant disturbance of the environment, the lessee shall submit for the Secretary's approval an operation and reclamation plan. Authorizes and directs the Secretary to conduct a comprehensive exploratory program designed to obtain sufficient data and information to evaluate the extent, location, and potential for developing the known recoverable coal resources within the coal lands subject to such Act. States that nothing in this requirement shall limit any private interest from conducting a survey to determine the existence or extent of coal deposits in such coal lands. Requires the Secretary to maintain published records of the results of all explorations conducted pursuant to such Act. Directs the Secretary to submit to Congress within six months after the end of each fiscal year a report on the leasing and production of coal lands subject to such Act, a summary of management and enforcement activities, and recommendations to Congress for improvements in management, environmental safeguards, and amount of production in leasing and mining operations on lands subject to such Act. Authorizes and directs the Director of the Office of Technology Assessment to conduct a comprehensive study of coal leases entered into by the United States. Prohibits the ownership or control of coal leases on more than 46,080 acres in any one State or of 100,000 in the United States by any single person or entity. Provides for the review by the Attorney General of any proposed issuance, renewal, or readjustment of any lease under such Act. Prohibits the issuance, renewal, or readjustment of any mineral lease by the Secretary which would result in the direct or indirect control by any person of more than ten percent of the estimated recoverable reserves of the mineral covered by such a lease. Authorizes an exception to such a prohibition should the Attorney General find that such issuance, renewal, or readjustment would not be inconsistent with the policies of the antitrust laws. Title II: Statement of Findings and Policy - Declares that most of the nation's coal reserve can only be mined by underground methods. States the purposes of this Act, including to establish a nationwide program to prevent the adverse effects to society and the environment from surface coal mining. Title III: Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement - Establishes in the Interior Department the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement with a Director appointed by the President. States that such Office shall administer the programs required by this Act and assist the States in development of State programs for surface coal mining and reclamation. States that the Office shall be considered an independent Federal regulatory body. Title IV: State Mining and Mineral Resources and Research Institutes - Authorizes appropriation to the Secretary of the Interior of sums adequate to provide for each participating State $200,000 for fiscal year 1975, $300,000 for fiscal year 1976, and $400,000 for each fiscal year thereafter for five years, to assist the States in carrying on the work of a competent and qualfied mining and mineral resources research institute or center at the school of mines of one public college or university of the State. Requires such monies to be matched dollar for dollar by the States. Authorizes appropriation of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, such sum to be increased by $2,000,000 each fiscal year for six years thereafter, for specific projects in mining and mineral research in research institutes. Directs the Secretary to establish a center for cataloging current and project scientific research in mining and mineral resources. Requires the Secretary to appoint an Advisory Committee on Mining and Mineral Research to advise him on all matters concerning mining and mineral resources research. Title V: Abandoned Mine Reclamation - Creates the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund in the Treasury. Requires operators of coal mines to pay into the fund quarterly fees of $.35 per ton of coal produced by surface mining and $.15 per ton of coal produced by underground mining, or 10 percent of the value of the coal in the mine, whichever is less. Authorizes use of money in the Fund for acquisition and reclamation of abandoned and unreclaimed mined lands and for acquisitions and fillings of voids and sealing of tunnels and entryways in abandoned mines. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to enter into agreements with landowners, including owners of water rights, under which such landowners shall furnish a conservation and development plan and shall effect such plan in return for financial assistance from the Secretary of Agriculture of up to 80 percent of the cost of such a reclamation effort. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire, by purchase, donation, or otherwise, land which has been affected by surface mining and has not been reclaimed to its appropriate original contour. Requires the Secretary, in determining the price paid for land under such authority, to take into account the unrestored condition of the land. Provides for the acquisition of lands by condemnation proceedings conducted by the Attorney General: (1) when the owner of such land refuses to negotiate with the Secretary; or (2) when such owner cannont be determined. Encourages States to acquire abandoned and unreclaimed lands, and to transfer such land to the Secretary for reclamation, and authorizes matching grants for such purpose, up to 90 percent of land price. Allows resale of reclaimed land by public bidding, and allows local public participation in determining the use of reclaimed land. Title VI: Control of the Environmental Impacts of Surface Coal Mining - Directs publication within 180 days of enactment of this Act of regulations, covering surface coal mining and reclamation, setting standards for State programs. States that such regulations must meet approval of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator. Requires all surface coal mining operations commencing within six months of the date of enactment of this Act on State-regulated lands to comply with specified provisions of this Act. Requires all surface coal mining operations on State-regulated lands to be in compliance with specified provisions of this Act within one year of the date of enactment. Requires States which wish to assume exclusive jurisdiction over the regulation of surface coal mining and reclamation operations, to submit to the Secretary of the Interior, within 18 months of enactment, programs for carrying out this Act, such programs to include a State regulatory authority capable of regulating surface coal mining, State law providing for sanctions for violations of regulations, and a permit system for surface coal mining regulation. Requires such State programs to meet the approval of the EPA Administrator. Subjects State programs to approval by the Secretary of the Interior within 6 months. Requires implementation of a Federal program of surface coal mining regulation where States fail in such implementation. Permits State laws and regulations that are more stringent than those set forth pursuant to this Act. Prohibits the conduct of any surface coal mining operations by any person on or after six months from the promulgation of a State or Federal reclamation program unless the person has first obtained a permit, good for a maximum of five years, to conduct such operations. Provides for the renewal of such permits. Requires permit applications to describe the method of mining and equipment proposed to be used, to describe by maps the land to be affected, and to contain a statement of results of test borings or core samplings of the affected land. States that permits must be accompanied by a mining and reclamation plan which shall include a description of present uses of the land, steps to be taken to prevent environmental damage, and a description of reclamation activities. Requires the posting of performance bonds and possession of liability insurance by applicants for permits. Requires operators to obtain a permit prior to conducting any coal exploration operations which substantially disturb the natural land surface. Sets general performance standards for environmental protection in surface coal mining which permittees under this Act must meet. Imposes additional standards for steep-slope surface mining. Directs the Secretary, within 135 days from the date of enactment, with the concurrency of the Chief of Engineers, to promulgate standards and criteria regulating the design, construction, maintenance and abandonment of new and existing coal mine waste piles. Directs the Secretary to promulgate rules and regulations directed at the surface effects of underground mining, including specified requirements. Directs and authorizes inspection of surface coal mining and reclamation to determine compliance with this Act and regulations. Requires surprise inspections by regulatory agencies not less than once a month. Provides that when an operator completes the backfilling, regrading, and drainage control of a bonded area, he may request a release of 60 percent of the bond. Provides that the remaining amount may be returned upon completion of all reclamation. Allows persons with a legal interest to file objections to release of bond, and for public hearings to follow. Permits any person to bring a civil suit against any person, including the United States, alleged to be in violation of this Act. Allows the court to award costs of litigation to parties in suits brought under this Act. Permits the Secretary to intervene in actions under this Act. Allows, where State regulatory authorities do not exist or fail to act, for Federal enforcement of this Act and of permit conditions. Permits issuance of an order to cease mining and reclamation. Provides for the Attorney General to institute civil suit for a restraining order or injunction to enforce this Act or regulations under it. Directs States to designate as unsuitable for surface coal mining those areas where reclamation is impossible or where land is fragile or of historical value. Prohibits existing mining operations from being declared unsuitable. Requires implementation of a Federal lands program applicable to all surface mining and reclamation operations on Federal land. Requires such program to, at least, adopt all requirements of this Act. Demands separate regulations for programs for special bitumious coal surface mines that meet specified criteria, and for anthracite coal surface mines which are regulated by environmental protection standards of the States. Title VII: Designations of Lands Unsuitable for Noncoal Mining - Allows the Secretary to designate Federal lands unsuitable for mining materials other than coal, if they are predominantly urban or suburban in character or if such mining operations would have an adverse impact on lands used primarily for residential and related purposes. Title VIII: Administrative and Miscellaneous Provisions - Defines the terms used in this Act. Prohibits discrimination against employees for filing suit under this Act and for testifying in a proceeding under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to make annual grants to the States to assist the States in developing, administering, and enforcing State programs under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to provide technical assistance and training, and assistance in preparing and maintaing a continuing inventory of information on surface coal mining and reclamation projects. Requires the Secretary to submit an annual report to the President and the Congress. Directs the Secretary to contract with the National Academy of Sciences-National Academy of Engineering for a study of surface coal mining conditions in Alaska in order to determine which, if any, of the provisions of this Act should be modified with respect to such operations in Alaska. Directs the Chairman of the Council on Environmental Quality to contract with the National Academy of Sciences- National Academy of Engineering and other groups for a study of the technology for surface and open-pit mining and reclamation for minerals other than coal designed to assist in the development of regulation for such operations. Directs the Secretary to consult with Indian tribes in studying the regulation of surface mining on Indian lands. Requires all surface coal mining operations on Indian lands to comply with requirements at least as stringent as in this Act within 30 months from the enactment of this Act. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act, as follows: (1) $10,000,000 for various contract authority immediately and for the next two fiscal years; (2) for administrative and other purposes, $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, $20,000,000 for fiscal years 1976 and 1977, and $30,000,000 for fiscal years thereafter; (3) for research and demonstration projects of alternative coal mining technologies, $35,000,000 for fiscal year 1976, and for the next four years. Requires the written consent of the owner of the surface rights before the Secretary shall lease Federally-owned minieral rights, and requires compensation to be paid by the lessee to the surface owner. States that nothing in this Act shall be construed as increasing or diminishing the rights of any owner of coal in Alaska to conduct or authorize surface coal mining operations for coal which has been or is hereafter conveyed out of Federal ownership to the State of Alaska or pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, provided, that such surface coal mining operations meet the requirements of the Act. States that nothing in this Act shall be construed as affecting in any way the right of any person to enforce or protect his interest in water resources affected by a surface coal mining operation.
Bill· HRH.R. 9873 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 1975
Provides, under the Natural Gas Act, for a five-year suspension of regulation of the sale for resale of natural gas in the interstate market. Provides that intrastate pipelines and producers may negotiate short-term sales of natural gas to interstate pipelines for a period not to exceed 180 days.
Bill· HRH.R. 9884 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 1975
Natural Gas Emergency Supply Act - Provides that, within 15 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Federal Power Commission shall, by rule, exempt from the provisions of the Natural Gas Act, the transportation, sale, transfer, or exchange of any natural gas, other than natural gas produced from any land or subsurface area located within the Outer Continental Shelf, by any person to or with a natural-gas company: (1) which does not have a sufficient supply of natural gas to fulfill the requirements of any person which is a high priority consumer of natural gas, as defined, by rule, by the Federal Power Commission; and (2) which is curtailing deliveries of natural gas pursuant to a curtailment plan on file with the Commission.
Bill· HRH.R. 9876 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 1975
Grants the Federal Power Commission emergency authority to exempt temporarily any activities or operations relating to the sale, transportation, transfer, or exchange in interstate commerce of natural gas or of commingled natural gas and synthetic natural gas, from the provisions of the Natural Gas Act, in order to alleviate the hardships caused by the natural gas shortage. Stipulates that no such exemption shall exceed 180 days. Directs that the Commission shall not deny the purchase price paid by an interstate natural gas pipeline company for gas exempted under this Act.
Bill· SS. 2417 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 1975
Oil Pricing Act - Provides for the phased decontrol of crude oil prices under the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act. Provides for a gradual transition from mandatory price and allocation controls, under such Act. Permits the President to remove price and allocation control regulation from crude oil or refined petroleum products which are not in short supply.
Bill· HRH.R. 9828 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 1975
Increases from $5,000,000,000 to $15,000,000,000 the amount of bonds which may be issued by the Tennessee Valley Authority under the Tennessee Valley Authority Act. Provides for an annual payment, rather than semi-annual payments, to the Treasury of the United States of the power proceeds in excess of those obligated by bonds or bond contracts.
Bill· HRH.R. 9777 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 September 1975
Title I: Oil Pricing Act - Extends the authority of the President to promulgate regulations providing for the mandatory allocation of crude oil, residual fuel oil and refined petroleum products until January 31, 1979. Requires such regulations to provide for a primary ceiling price for controlled old crude oil not to exceed the ceiling price for controlled old crude oil pursuant to the regulation in effect on August 31, 1975, and for a secondary ceiling price for all crude oil other than controlled old crude oil. States that if the President finds at any time after November 1, 1975, that there is no shortage of a particular oil or product, and that exempting such product from regulation will not have an adverse effect on the supply of any other oil or refined petroleum products, he may exempt such item from regulations pertaining to either allocation of amounts or specifications of price. Title II: Oil Deregulation Tax Act - Imposes an excise tax under the Internal Revenue Code on the deregulation profits from taxable domestic crude oil removed from the premises during each taxable period, in an amount equal to 90 percent of the deregulation profit from each taxable barrel of crude oil removed. Allows a tax credit for persons subject to such tax in an amount equal to the lower of 50 percent of the amount of tax imposed for such taxable period or such person's plowback investment for such taxable period. Requires the purchaser of domestic crude oil to furnish to the person liable for such tax a monthly statement showing specified information, including: (1) the amount of domestic crude oil purchased from such person during such month, and (2) the amount of taxable domestic crude oil purchased from such person during such month. Establishes criminal penalties for willful failure to furnish required information regarding the deregulation profits tax on domestic crude oil.
Bill· HRH.R. 9774 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1975
Black Lung Benefits Act - Changes from advisory to supervisory the function of the Committee on Coal Mine Health Research established by the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969. Requires that the chairman of the committee and a majority of the persons appointed by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare shall be miners, retired miners, disabled miners, widows or widows of miners, spouses of miners, and officers or employees of labor organizations which represent miners. Prohibits the Scretary from conducting any research on the occupational health of coal miners which has not been recommended by such committee. Expands the definition of "miner" as used in that Act to include individuals who worked around an underground coal mine in the extraction, processing, or transportation of coal. Redefines the term "total disability" as used in that Act to provide that a miner shall be considered totally disabled when pneumoconiosis prevents him from engaging in gainful employment requiring the skills and abilities comparable to those of any employment in a mine or mines in which he previously engaged with some regularity and over a substantial period of time. Provides that, in specified situations, if a miner was employed for 15 years or more in or by one or more coal mines, there shall be an irrebuttable presumption that he is totally disabled due to pneumoconiosis or that at the time of his death he was totally disabled by pneumoconiosis. States that where there is no relevant medical evidence in the case of a deceased miner affidavits may be sufficient to establish that the miner was totally disabled due to pneumoconiosis. Establishes in the United States Treasury the Black Lung Disability Insurance Fund. States that such fund shall consist of such sums as may be appropriated to it and such sums as coal mine operators may pay into it. Requires coal mine operators to pay sufficient annual premiums into the fund to provide for the payment of benefits. Provides that the premium rate shall be based on the number of tons of coal mined and shall be uniform for all mines and mine operators. Provides that such fund shall furnish miners entitled to benefits on account of total disability with medical services, nursing, hospital and home health services, medicine, therapy, and equipment necessary for treatment of conditions caused by pneumoconiosis. Allows payment of claims which were previously denied but would be payable under this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 9755 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 September 1975
Natural Gas Emergency Standby Act - Title I: - Sets forth congressional findings and purposes applicable to this Act. Title II: Interstate Pipeline Emergency Natural Gas Purchases Act - States that the purpose of this title is to grant the Federal Power Commission (FPC) authority to allow interstate pipeline companies with insufficient natural gas for their high priority consumers to acquire natural gas from intrastate sources and other interstate pipeline companies on an emergency basis free from the provisions of the Natural Gas Act. Revises the Natural Gas Act to permit the FPC to exempt from the provisions of the Natural Gas Act the transportation, sale, transfer or exchange of natural gas in connection with emergency acquisitions of natural gas by interstate pipelines. Exempts transactions between a producer, interstate pipeline company, intrastate pipeline company or gas distributing company, to or with an interstate pipeline company which does not have a sufficient supply of natural gas to fulfill the requirements of its high priority consumers of natural gas, and which is curtailing deliveries pursuant to a curtailment plan on file with the FPC. Limits exemptions to 180 days in duration. Title III: Curtailed Consumers Emergency Natural Gas Purchases Act - States that the purpose of this title is to allow curtailed high priority consumers of natural gas to purchase natural gas from the intrastate market by enabling them to arrange for the transportation of such gas by regulated interstate pipeline companies. Provides, under the Natural Gas Act, that FPC jurisdiction shall not extend to transportation by gas distributing companies of natural gas purchased under this title by curtailed high priority consumers. Provides explicit authority to the FPC to issue a certificate of public convenience and necessity to transport natural gas purchased under this title, without the need to review and approve the price paid by a high priority consumer directly to the seller. Title IV: Emergency Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act Amendments - States the purpose of this title is to continue the conservation of natural gas and petroleum products by fostering the use of coal by powerplants and major fuel burning installations, and if coal cannot be utilized, to provide authority to prohibit the use of natural gas when petroleum products can be substituted. Extends FEA's recently expired authority to require conversion to coal by gas and oil burning powerplants and major fuel burning installations, and to add a new authority to require conversion from gas to oil where coal conversion is not feasible and certain other requirements are met, including a certification by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency that the particular powerplant or installation will be able to comply with the Clean Air Act while burning oil. Title V: Propane Standby Allocation Act - States the purpose of this title is to provide standby authority for the President to allocate propane during periods of actual or threatened severe shortages of natural gas. Provides standby authority to the President to issue such orders and regulations as may be appropriate in order to provide for systematic allocation and pricing of propane. Requires findings that shortages of natural gas exist or are imminent and that such shortages constitute a threat to public health, safety or welfare. Sets forth criminal and civil sanctions for violation of regulations and orders made pursuant to this title, as well as authority to issue orders to insure compliance and to afford restitution to injured parties. Provides a defense under antitrust or contract law for failures or delays in providing, selling or offering for sale propane if such failures or delays result from compliance with this title. Prescribes administrative procedures, including the manner by which rulemakings are to be initiated. Sets forth the requirement for administrative procedures by which any inequities or hardships arising from the administration of the program can be prevented. Provides for judicial review by the Federal courts of the provisions of this title and any rules, regulations or orders issued to carry out the purposes of this title. Provides injunctive and other remedies for insuring compliance. Specifies subpoena power and the authority to inspect premises, inventories, documents and other items to carry out the provisions of this title. Provides for paying witnesses' fees and mileages and for compelling attendance of witnesses. Establishes a private right of action based on any legal wrong suffered because of acts or practices arising out of this title. Provides, under the Federal Energy Administration Act, that any regulated pricing of propane may reflect factors other than the cost attributed to its production. Authorizes the President to delegate powers granted by this title to other offices, departments and agencies of the United States. Title VI: Provides that the termination of this Act or of the authorities granted under it does not affect any action or pending proceedings not finally determined on such date, nor any action or proceedings based upon any act committed prior to such date. Preserves the validity of the remainder of this Act and its continuing application if any particular provision or application is held invalid.
Bill· SS. 2381 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1975
Energy Conservation in Buildings Act - Title I: Weatherization Assistance for Low-Income Persons - Weatherization Assistance Act - Authorizes the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration to provide funds to the States for weatherization of dwellings of low-income persons, particularly the low-income elderly and the handicapped. Enumerates criteria for the evaluation of weatherization grant applications, including an estimation of the amount of fuel to be conserved by the weatherization program. Directs the Comptroller General to provide for the examination and audit of programs under this title. States that such audit shall include an evaluation of the manner in which policies and programs under this title are being carried out. Provides that a program determined not to be in compliance with the provisions of its approved application for any fiscal year shall not receive Federal funds until substantial compliance is established. Authorizes the appropriation of up to $55,000,000 per year for fiscal years 1976, 1977, and 1978. Title II: Energy Conservation Building Standards - Building Energy Conservation Standards Act - Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to publish performance standards for new commercial buildings within 18 months of enactment of this title. Directs the promulgation of performance standards for new residential buildings within three years after the enactment of this title. Directs the Secretary to monitor the progress made by the States and their political subdivisions in adopting and enforcing model energy conservation standards. Authorizes to be appropriated to the States $10,000,000 for technical assistance in implementing model energy conservation standards approved by the Secretary. Provides for research and demonstration projects to assist the development of performance standards under this title.
Bill· HRH.R. 9725 (94th)reported
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1975
Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act - Title I: Statement of Findings and Policy - Declares that most of the nation's coal reserve can only be mined by underground methods. States the purposes of this Act, including to establish a nationwide program to prevent the adverse effects to society and the environment from surface coal mining. Title II: Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement - Establishes in the Interior Department the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement with a director appointed by the President. States that such office shall administer the programs required by this Act and assist the States in development of State programs for surface coal mining and reclamation. States that the Office shall be considered an independent Federal regulatory body. Title III: State Mining and Mineral Resources Research Institute - Authorizes appropriation to the Secretary of the Interior of sums adequate to provide for each participating State $200,000 for fiscal year 1975, $300,000 for fiscal year 1976, and $400,000 for each fiscal year thereafter for five years, to assist the States in carrying on the work or a competent and qualified mining and mineral resources research institute or center at the school of mines of one public college or university of the State. Requires such monies to be matched dollar for dollar by the States. Authorizes appropriation of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1975, such sum to be increased by $2,000,000 each fiscal year for 6 years thereafter, for specific projects in mining and mineral research in research institutes. Directs the Secretary to establish a center for cataloging current and projected scientific research in mining and mineral resources. Requires the Secretary to appoint an Advisory Committee on Mining and Mineral Research to advise him on all matters concerning mining and mineral resources research. Title IV: Abandoned Mine Reclamation - Creates the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Fund in the Treasury. Requires operators of coal mines to pay into the fund quarterly fees of $.35 per ton of coal produced by surface mining and $.15 per ton of coal produced by underground mining, or 10 percent of the value of the coal in the mine, whichever is less. Authorizes use of money in the Fund for acquisition and reclamation of abandoned and unreclaimed mined lands and for acquisitions and fillings of voids and sealing of tunnels and entryways in abandoned mines. Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to enter into agreements with landowners, including owners of water rights, under which such landowners shall furnish a conservation and development plan and shall effect such plan in return for financial assistance from the Secretary of Agriculture of up to 80 percent of the cost of such a reclamation effort. Encourages States to acquire abandoned and unreclaimed land, and to transfer it to the Secretary for reclamation, and authorizes matching grants for such purpose, up to 90 percent of the land price. Allows resale of reclaimed land by public bidding, and allows local public participation in determining the use of reclaimed land. Title V: Control of the Environmental Impacts of Surface Coal Mining - Directs publication within 180 days of enactment of this Act of regulations covering surface coal mining and reclamation and setting standards for State programs. States that such regulations must meet approval of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator. Requires all surface coal mining operations commencing within six months from the date of enactment of this Act on State-regulated lands to comply with specified provisions of this Act. Requires all surface coal mining operations on State-regulated lands to be in compliance with specified provisions of this Act within one year from the date of enactment. Requires States which wish to assume exclusive jurisdiction over the regulation of surface coal mining and reclamation operations to submit to the Secretary of the Interior, within 18 months of enactment, programs for carrying out this Act, such programs to include a State regulatory authority capable of regulating surface coal mining, State laws providing for sanctions for violations of regulations, and a permit system for surface coal mining regulation. Demands that such State programs meet the approval of the EPA Administrator. Subjects State programs to approval of Secretary of Interior within six months. Requires implementation of a Federal program of surface coal mining regulation where States fail in such implementation. Permits State laws and regulations that are more stringent than those set forth pursuant to this Act. Prohibits the conduct of any surface coal mining operations by any person on or after six months from the promulgation of a State or Federal reclamation program unless the person has first obtained a permit, good for a maximum of five years, to conduct such operations. Provides for the renewal of such permits. Requires permit applications to describe the method of mining and equipment proposed to be used, to describe by maps the land to be affected, and to contain a statement of results of test borings or core samplings of the affected land. States that permits must be accompanied by a mining and reclamation plan which shall include a description of present uses of the land, steps to be taken to prevent environmental damage, and a description of the reclamation activities. Requires the posting of performance bonds and possession of liability insurance by applicants for permits. Requires operators to obtain a permit prior to conducting any coal exploration operations which substantially disturb the natural land surface. Sets general performance standards for environmental protection in surface coal mining which permittees under this Act must meet. Imposes additional standards for steep-slope surface mining. Directs the Secretary, within 135 days from the date of enactment, with the concurrence of the Chief of Engineers, to promulgate standards and criteria regulating the design, construction, maintenance and abandonment of new and existing coal mine waste piles. Directs the Secretary to promulgate rules and regulations directed at the surface effects of underground mining. Directs and authorizes inspection of surface coal mining and reclamation to determine compliance with this Act and regulations. Provides requirements for record keeping and submittal and monitoring by mine operators. Requires surprise inspections by regulatory agencies not less than once a month. Imposes civil penalties for violation of this Act or regulations under it. Provides that when an operator completes the backfilling, regrading, and drainage control of a bonded area, he may request a release of 60 percent of the bond. Provides that the remaining amount may be returned upon completion of all reclamation. Allows persons with a legal interest to file objections to release of bond, and for public hearings to follow. Permits any person to bring a civil suit against any person, including the United States, alleged to be in violation of this Act. Allows the court to award costs of litigation to parties in suits brought under this Act. Permits the Secretary to intervene in actions under this Act. Allows, where State regulatory authorities do not exist or fail to act, for Federal enforcement of this Act and of permit conditions. Permits issuance of an order to cease mining and reclamation. Provides for the Attorney General to institute civil suit for a restraining order or injunction to enforce this Act or regulations under it. Directs States to designate as unsuitable for surface coal mining those areas where reclamation is impossible or where land is fragile or of historical value. Prohibits existing mining operations from being declared unsuitable. Requires implementation of a Federal lands program applicable to all surface mining and reclamation operations on Federal land. Requires such program to, at least, adopt all requirements of this Act. Demands separate regulations for programs for special bituminous coal surface mines that meet speicified criteria, and for anthracite coal surface mines which are regulated by environmental protection standards of the States. Title VI: Designation of Lands Unsuitable for Noncoal Mining - Allows the Secretary to designate Federal lands unsuitable for mining materials other than coal, if they are predominantly urban or suburban in character or if such mining operations would have an adverse impact on lands used primarily for residential and related purposes. Title VII: Administrative and Miscellaneous Provisions - Defines the terms used in this Act. Prohibits discrimination against employees for filing suit under this Act and for testifying in a proceeding under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to make annual grants to the States to assist the States in developing, administering, and enforcing State programs under this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to provide technical assistance and training, and assistance in preparing and maintaining a continuing inventory of information on surface coal mining and reclamation projects. Requires the Secretary to submit an annual report to the President and the Congress. Directs the Secretary to contract with the National Academy of Sciences-National Academy of Engineering for a study of surface coal mining conditions in Alaska in order to determine which, if any, of the provisions of this Act should be modified with respect to such operations in Alaska. Directs the Chairman of the Council on Environmental Quality to contract with the National Academy of Sciences-National Academy of Engineering and other groups for a study of the technology for surface and open-pit mining and reclamation for minerals other than coal designed to assist in the development of regulation for such operations. Directs the Secretary to consult with Indian tribes in studying the regulation of surface mining on Indian lands. Requires all surface coal mining operations on Indian lands to comply with requirements at least as stringent as specified provisions in this Act within 30 months from the enactment of this Act. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act, as follows: (1) $10,000,000 for various contract authority immediately and for the next two fiscal years; (2) for administrative and other purposes, $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $20,000,000 for fiscal years 1978 and 1979, and $30,000,000 for fiscal years thereafter; (3) for research and demonstration projects of alternative coal mining technologies, $35,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, and for the next four years. Requires the written consent of the owner of the surface rights before the Secretary shall lease Federally-owned mineral rights, and requires compensation to be paid by the lessee to the surface owner. States that nothing in this Act shall be construed as increasing or diminishing the rights of any owner of coal in Alaska to conduct or authorize surface coal mining operations for coal which has been or is hereafter conveyed out of Federal ownership to the State of Alaska or pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act; provided, that such surface coal mining operations meet the requirements of the Act. States that nothing in this Act shall be construed as affecting in any way the right of any person to enforce or protect his interest in water resources affected by a surface coal mining operation.
Bill· HRH.R. 9749 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1975
Authorizes the Energy Research and Development Administration to provide additional assistance in the form of authorizing loan guarantees to any person who demonstrates a unique capability for converting fossil fuels to synthetic fuels. States that no loan guaranteed under this Act may exceed 75 percent of the cost of construction and operation of an initial demonstration project.
Bill· HRH.R. 9737 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1975
Energy-Related Unemployment Compensation Act - Provides for the Federal payment of State unemployment compensation benefits which are paid to individuals who are unemployed because of the natural gas shortage.
Bill· HRH.R. 9709 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1975
Exempts from the regulations of the Natural Gas Act, for a period of up to one year, any activities or operation relating to the transportation or sale of natural gas, including natural gas subject to any contract for the sale or delivery of such gas, to an interstate natural gas pipeline company which does not have a sufficient supply of natural gas to fulfill the firm contractual requirements of its present customers and which is curtailing deliveries pursuant to a plan on file with the Federal Power Commission. Exempts from the regulation of the Federal Power Commission the facilities of a gas distribution company used to transport natural gas produced by an independent producer from lands not within the Outer Continental Shelf and sold directly to a high priority consumer of natural gas. States that such transportation is a matter to be regulated by the States. Defines the terms "high priority consumer of natural gas" and "independent producer."
Bill· HRH.R. 9710 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1975
Provides that within 15 days after the passage of this Act, the Federal Power Commission shall by regulation exempt natural gas companies from regulation under the Natural Gas Act of any activities or operation relating to the transportation or sale of natural gas; including natural gas subject to any contract for the sale or delivery of such gas, to any interstate natural gas pipeline company which does not have a sufficient supply of natural gas to fulfill the firm contractual requirements of specified customers, and which is curtailing deliveries pursuant to a curtailment plan on file with the Commission. Provides that no exemption granted under this Act shall exceed one year in duration, but the Commission may, for good cause shown, extend any exemption granted for an additional one year. States that the Commission shall not deny, in whole or in part, the purchase price paid by an interstate natural gas pipeline company for gas exempted under this Act and regulations issued hereunder.
Bill· HRH.R. 9724 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1975
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish an Outer Continental Shelf Research, Development, and Resource Assessment Project to be managed by the Secretary through the Director of the Geological Survey. Provides for the coordination of various Federal agencies in the conduct by them of parts or aspects of the project within their particular competence. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Geological Survey, to: (1) assess the oil and gas resources of the Outer Continental Shelf on a continuing basis; (2) conduct research and studies with the assistance and participation of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service into the environmental effects of developing Outer Continental Shelf minerals; and (3) conduct a research, development, and demonstration program concerning better methods, procedures, and technology for predicting the existence of oil and gas resources of the Outer Continental Shelf. Directs specified Federal agencies to conduct related programs for the development and protection of the Outer Continental Shelf.
Bill· HRH.R. 9723 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1975
Authorizes the Energy Research and Development Administration to provide additional assistance in the form of authorizing loan guarantees to any person who demonstrates a unique capability for converting fossil fuels to synthetic fuels. States that no loan guaranteed under this Act may exceed 75 percent of the cost of construction and operation of an initial demonstration project.
Bill· HRH.R. 9708 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1975
Natural Gas Supply Act - Title I: States that it is the purpose of this Act to authorize the President or his delegate, the Federal Power Commission, and the Federal Energy Administration to deal with existing and imminent shortages and dislocations of natural gas in the national distribution system which jeopardize the public health, safety, and welfare; to provide protection of natural gas service to customers who use natural gas for high priority end uses during periods of curtailed deliveries by natural gas companies; and to assure increased supplies of natural gas at reasonable prices. Title II: - Interstate Pipeline Emergency Natural Gas Purchases Act - Grants the Federal Power Commission authority to allow interstate pipeline companies with insufficient natural gas for their high priority consumers of natural gas to acquire natural gas from intrastate sources and other interstate pipeline companies on an emergency basis free from the provisions of the Natural Gas Act. Title III: - Curtailed Consumers Emergency Natural Gas Purchasers Act - Allows curtailed high priority consumers of natural gas to purchase natural gas from the intrastate market by enabling them to arrange for the transportation of such gas by regulated interstate pipeline companies. Title IV: Emergency Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act Amendments - Provides authority to the Federal Energy Administrator to prohibit the use of natural gas when petroleum products or coal can be substituted by powerplants and major fuel burning installations. Title V: - Propane Standby Allocation Act - Provides standby authority for the President to allocate propane during periods of actual or threatened severe shortages of natural gas. Title VI: - States that termination of the authorities granted under this Act shall not affect any action or pending proceedings, civil or criminal, not finally determined on such date, nor any action or proceeding based upon any act committed prior to such date. Title VII: - States that the Commission shall have no power to disallow, in whole or in part, in the rates and charges made, demanded, or received by any natural gas company the amounts paid for new natural gas, except that in any case where a natural gas company purchases natural gas from an affiliate or produces natural gas from its own properties, the Commission may disallow any portion of the cost thereof in the rate or charge made by such company which is in excess of current prices paid to nonaffiliates for comparable sales of new natural gas.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 728 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 1975
Creates a 22-member Select Committee on Energy. States that the function of such select committee shall be: (1) to review any bill relating to the development of any form of energy which has been referred to any committee; and (2) to consider and report a bill to the House of Representatives designated to make the United States self-sufficient in energy. Gives the select committee the authority and staff necessary to carry out the provisions of this resolution. Provides that the expenses of the select committee shall be paid from the contingent fund of the House. Directs that the select committee shall expire upon the completion of the legislative process with respect to the bill reported by such select committee, or upon termination of the 94th Congress, whichever is earlier.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 252 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1975
Directs the President to initiate negotiations with Canada for the permanent exchange of fossil fuel beyond 1976. Requires the President to report to the Congress on the progress of such negotiations.
Bill· HRH.R. 9695 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1975
States that the purposes of this Act are: (1) to deal with shortages and dislocations of natural gas in the national distribution system; and (2) to provide protection of natural gas service to high priority consumers during periods of curtailed deliveries by companies engaged in the transportation or sale of natural gas in interstate commerce. Declares that the provisions of the Natural Gas Act shall not apply to the use of the facilities of a natural gas distribution company for the transportation of natural gas produced by an independent producer from lands other than Federal domain areas and sold directly to a high priority consumer of natural gas, provided that the rates applicable to the use of such facilities for such transportation are subject to State regulation. Defines the term "independent producer" as a person not engaged in the interstate transportation of natural gas. Defines the term "natural gas distribution company" as a person involved in the distribution or transportation of natural gas for public consumption, but not in interstate commerce. Authorizes the Federal Power Commission, at its discretion, to issue a certificate of public convenience and necessity to a company engaged in the interstate transportation or sale of natural gas to transport natural gas produced by independent producers from other than Federal domain lands and sold to "high priority consumers of natural gas". Directs the Commission to define the term "high priority consumers of natural gas".
Bill· HRH.R. 9688 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1975
Prohibits the use of gasoline and diesel fuel for the busing of public school students to schools farther away than the closest public school offering educational courses for the appropriate grade level of the students concerned. Exempts from the provisions of this Act, parents using gasoline or diesel fuel to transport a child to a public school.
Bill· HRH.R. 9680 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 1975
Excludes from gross income under the Internal Revenue Code customer payments to energy public utilities which are segregated by the public utility on its books of account and are expended within one year of receipt as a qualified capital expenditure (defined as an investment in property having a useful life of 10 years or more, approved by the appropriate agency with ratemaking jurisdiction, and not included in the taxpayer's base for purposes of ratemaking).
Bill· SS. 2364 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1975
Declares it to be the finding of Congress that the Government of Canada has announced that it intends to reduce crude oil exports to the United States and to elimnate such exports by 1983. States that areas of this country which are heavily dependent on such crude oil will experience severe economic and supply disruptions as a result of the cutoff. Authorizes the President to issue regulations providing for the mandatory allocation of crude oil imported from Canada to United States refineries on the basis of need.
Bill· HRH.R. 9669 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1975
Grants the Federal Power Commission emergency authority to exempt temporarily any activities or operations relating to the sale, transportation, transfer, or exchange in interstate commerce of natural gas or of commingled natural gas and synthetic natural gas, from the provisions of the Natural Gas Act, in order to alleviate the hardships caused by the natural gas shortage. Stipulates that no such exemption shall exceed 180 days. Directs that the Commission shall not deny the purchase price paid by an interstate natural gas pipeline company for gas exempted under this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 9671 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1975
Conservation and Solar Energy - Federal Buildings Act - Declares it to be the finding of Congress that energy conservation practices adopted for the design, construction, and utilization of these facilities will have a beneficial effect on the Nation's overall supply of energy, and the procurement of solar heating and cooling units for use in Federal buildings in connection with demonstrations of solar energy applications on such buildings under this Act should help to create a market for such units generally. States that it is the policy of this Act to insure that energy conservation and solar energy technology be employed in the design and construction of certain Federal facilities as set forth in this Act, and, to the maximum extent feasible, in the design and construction of all other Federal and federally-assisted facilities. Defines terms used in this Act, including the terms "energy use analysis," and "life cycle energy costs". Directs the Administrator of the General Services Administration and the Secretary of Defense to, in consultation with each other, develop, publish, and from time to time update guidelines designed to assure that the most effective and efficient measures for the conservation of energy and the use of solar energy systems are incorporated in: (1) the design, construction, and renovation of Federal and federally assisted buildings; and (2) the procurement of goods and services for such buildings and for other Federal purposes. States that the guidelines developed by the Secretary and the Administrator shall be consistent with each other. Requires the guidelines developed by the Secretary to be applied to all new and existing buildings under his control. Requires the guidelines developed by the Administrator to be applied to all other new and existing buildings, as defined in this Act. Directs all other Federal agencies to comply with the requirements of the applicable guidelines. Requires the Secretary and the Administrator: (1) to submit to Congress an energy use analysis with respect to the construction, acquisition, or leasing of any new building to which guidelines apply; and (2) with respect to existing buildings, to submit an inventory and energy use analysis of all such buildings, setting forth detailed plans for incorporating required improvements. Directs each Federal agency to submit to the Administrator or Secretary a detailed life cycle energy costs analysis of any building to be constructed, acquired, or leased by it for its use. Prohibits the purchase of any major energy using, generating, or conserving equipment by a Federal agency without prior submission of life cycle energy cost analysis. Provides for an increase in the allowable dollar amount of Federal assistance for building construction or major rehabilitation to cover the cost of solar energy equipment or other special energy equipment. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to carry out this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 9646 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1975
Authorizes the President, pursuant to the provisions of the Defense Production Act, to make provision for purchases of or commitments to purchase products produced from coal gasification and liquefaction which may be used as fuels for Government use or resale, and for the encouragement of development and production of such fuels. Limits to $1,500,000,000 the maximum obligation of any guaranteeing agency under any loan, discount, advance, or commitment entered into under this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 9605 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1975
Black Lung Benefits Act - Changes from advisory to supervisory the function of the Committee on Coal Mine Health Research established by the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969. Requires that the chairman of the committee and a majority of the persons appointed by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare shall be miners, retired miners, disabled miners, widows or widows of miners, spouses of miners, and officers or employees of labor organizations which represent miners. Prohibits the Scretary from conducting any research on the occupational health of coal miners which has not been recommended by such committee. Expands the definition of "miner" as used in that Act to include individuals who worked around an underground coal mine in the extraction, processing, or transportation of coal. Redefines the term "total disability" as used in that Act to provide that a miner shall be considered totally disabled when pneumoconiosis prevents him from engaging in gainful employment requiring the skills and abilities comparable to those of any employment in a mine or mines in which he previously engaged with some regularity and over a substantial period of time. Provides that, in specified situations, if a miner was employed for 15 years or more in or by one or more coal mines, there shall be an irrebuttable presumption that he is totally disabled due to pneumoconiosis or that at the time of his death he was totally disabled by pneumoconiosis. States that where there is no relevant medical evidence in the case of a deceased miner affidavits may be sufficient to establish that the miner was totally disabled due to pneumoconiosis. Establishes in the United States Treasury the Black Lung Disability Insurance Fund. States that such fund shall consist of such sums as may be appropriated to it and such sums as coal mine operators may pay into it. Requires coal mine operators to pay sufficient annual premiums into the fund to provide for the payment of benefits. Provides that the premium rate shall be based on the number of tons of coal mined and shall be uniform for all mines and mine operators. Provides that such fund shall furnish miners entitled to benefits on account of total disability with medical services, nursing, hospital and home health services, medicine, therapy, and equipment necessary for treatment of conditions caused by pneumoconiosis. Allows payment of claims which were previously denied but would be payable under this Act.
Bill· SS. 2337 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 16 September 1975
Coal Conversion Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act Amendments - Extends from June 30, 1975 to December 31, 1975, the authority of the Federal Energy Administration to issue orders or rules with respect to powerplants and fuel burning installations pursuant to the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974.
Bill· SS. 2329 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1975
Provides that the Export-Import Bank shall not approve assistance for the export of nuclear materials or technology to any nation not a party to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Allows for exception to this provision when the President certifies to Congress that such transfer is required in the interest of national security.
Bill· SS. 2330 (94th)open
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1975
Natural Gas Emergency Standby Act - Title I: - Sets forth congressional findings and purposes applicable to this Act. Title II: Interstate Pipeline Emergency Natural Gas Purchases Act - States that the purpose of this title is to grant the Federal Power Commission (FPC) authority to allow interstate pipeline companies with insufficient natural gas for their high priority consumers to acquire natural gas from intrastate sources and other interstate pipeline companies on an emergency basis free from the provisions of the Natural Gas Act. Revises the Natural Gas Act to permit the FPC to exempt from the provisions of the Natural Gas Act the transportation, sale, transfer or exchange of natural gas in connection with emergency acquisitions of natural gas by interstate pipelines. Exempts transactions between a producer, interstate pipeline company, intrastate pipeline company or gas distributing company, to or with an interstate pipeline company which does not have a sufficient supply of natural gas to fulfill the requirements of its high priority consumers of natural gas, and which is curtailing deliveries pursuant to a curtailment plan on file with the FPC. Limits exemptions to 180 days in duration. Title III: Curtailed Consumers Emergency Natural Gas Purchases Act - States that the purpose of this title is to allow curtailed high priority consumers of natural gas to purchase natural gas from the intrastate market by enabling them to arrange for the transportation of such gas by regulated interstate pipeline companies. Provides, under the Natural Gas Act, that FPC jurisdiction shall not extend to transportation by gas distributing companies of natural gas purchased under this title by curtailed high priority consumers. Provides explicit authority to the FPC to issue a certificate of public convenience and necessity to transport natural gas purchased under this title, without the need to review and approve the price paid by a high priority consumer directly to the seller. Title IV: Emergency Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act Amendments - States the purpose of this title is to continue the conservation of natural gas and petroleum products by fostering the use of coal by powerplants and major fuel burning installations, and if coal cannot be utilized, to provide authority to prohibit the use of natural gas when petroleum products can be substituted. Extends FEA's recently expired authority to require conversion to coal by gas and oil burning powerplants and major fuel burning installations. Adds a new authority to require conversion from gas to oil where coal conversion is not feasible and certain other requirements are met, including a certification by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency that the particular powerplant or installation will be able to comply with the Clean Air Act while burning oil. Title V: Propane Standby Allocation Act - States that the purpose of this title is to provide standby authority for the President to allocate propane during periods of actual or threatened severe shortages of natural gas. Provides standby authority to the President to issue such orders and regulations as may be appropriate in order to provide for systematic allocation and pricing of propane. Requires findings that shortages of natural gas exist or are imminent and that such shortages constitute a threat to public health, safety or welfare. Sets forth criminal and civil sanctions for violation of regulations and orders made pursuant to this title, as well as authority to issue orders to insure compliance and to afford restitution to injured parties. Provides a defense under antitrust or contract law for failures or delays in providing, selling or offering for sale propane if such failures or delays result from compliance with this title. Prescribes administrative procedures, including the manner by which rulemakings are to be initiated. Sets forth the requirement for administrative procedures by which any inequities or hardships arising from the administration of the program can be prevented. Provides for judicial review by the Federal courts, including the Temporary Emergency Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court, of the provisions of this title and any rules, regulations or orders issued to carry out the purposes of this title. Provides injunctive and other remedies for insuring compliance. Specifies subpoena power and the authority to inspect premises, inventories, documents and other items to carry out the provisions of this title. Provides for paying witnesses' fees and mileages and for compelling attendance of witnesses. Establishes a private right of action based on any legal wrong suffered because of acts or practices arising out of this title. Provides, under the Federal Energy Administration Act, that any regulated pricing of propane may reflect factors other than the cost attributed to its production. Authorizes the President to delegate powers granted by this title to other offices, departments and agencies of the United States. Title VI: - Provides that the termination of this Act or of the authorities granted under it does not affect any action or pending proceedings not finally determined on such date, nor any action or proceedings based upon any act committed prior to such date. Preserves the validity of the remainder of this Act and its continuing application if any particular provision or application is held invalid.
Law· HRH.R. 9524 (94th)open
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1975
Extends the provisions of the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act of 1973 from August 31, 1975 until October 31, 1975.
Bill· HRH.R. 9501 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1975
Electric Power Authority Act - Establishes an Electric Power Authority. Provides for an Administrator of the Authority to be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Enumerates the duties of the Authority, including to: (1) assure that adequate supplies of electric energy, to the extent possible, are available to meet the anticipated needs of the United States; (2) continuously review the demand and supply of electric energy in the United States and report on such annually to the Congress; and (3) loan, upon the provision of adequate collateral, to investor-owned electric utilities or States or municipal power authorities sums up to 100 percent for the costs of new electric powerplant construction and electric distribution and transmission facilities. Empowers the Authority to provide loans and loan guarantees for the long-term purchase of coal and nuclear fuel supplies by investor-owned utilities or States or municipal power authorities, or lessee's of electric powerplants initially built by the Authority, for the purpose of assuring that domestic fuel supplies are developed and available in adequate amounts to meet anticipated needs of electrical powerplants. Authorizes appropriations of $51,000,000,000 over a ten-year period to carry out the provisions of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 9539 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1975
Title I: Emergency Petroleum Allocation Extension Act - Extends the mandatory allocation program provisions of the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act of 1973 to October 20, 1975 (presently expires August 31, 1975). Title II: Coal Conversion Extension Act - Extends, until December 31, 1975, under the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974, the authority of the Federal Energy Administrator to prohibit by rule or order the use of petroleum or natural gas at installations capable of using coal to generate heat and power.
Bill· HRH.R. 9510 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1975
Natural Gas Production and Conservation Act - Defines terms used in this Act, including: (1) "affiliate" to mean any person directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by, or under common control or ownership with any other person; (2) "old natural gas" to mean natural gas dedicated to interstate commerce prior to January 1, 1975 with the determination or dedication to be the findings the Commission made at the time deliveries of such natural gas were first made; (3) "producer" to mean a person who produces and sells more than 10 million mcf of natural gas per year and who is not or does not qualify as a small producer; and (4) "user" to mean a person or governmental entity using natural gas after it is delivered in interstate or intrastate commerce. Provides that new natural gas may be sold or transferred in interstate or intrastate commerce by a producer or small producer at a price that does not exceed: (1) the national base price established by the Federal Power Commission or any relevant high-cost production base price established by the Commission plus; (2) an adjustment to the national base price or any high-cost production base price for inflation or deflation for new natural gas first delivered during the year for which such adjustment is applicable; (3) an additional annual price increase equal to 2 percent per year of the adjusted base price of such gas at the time of initial dedication or such higher annual adjustment as may be approved by the Commission to be necessary to cover increased costs of production and provide for a reasonable rate of return on investment to such producer; and (4) adjustments to increase or decrease the base prices at the wellhead for gathering services, removing impurities, quality adjustments, expenses incurred such as State or Federal production or severance taxes, and the uncompensated value of advanced payments made to the producer. Permits a producer of new natural gas that is liquified, regasified or synthetic natural gas, to charge a special price that is just and reasonable based on his costs of production. States that those producers who discovered natural gas on the Federal domain more than two years before the enactment of this Act and still have not comitted such natural gas reserves to a pipeline are not able to take advantage of the incentive new gas or exempt gas pricing provisions. Directs the Commission to establish the initial national base price at a level of not less than 40 cents per mcf nor more than 75 cents per mcf. Directs the Commission to review and reestablish the national base price and any high-cost production base price at five-year intervals after the date of their initial establishment. Sets forth the criteria to be used in establishing the initial national base price, any initial high-cost production base prices, and subsequent national and subsequent high-cost production price bases. Requires the Commission to establish any base price for new natural gas pursuant to the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedures Act. Permits the pass-through on a dollar-for-dollar basis of the cost of all new natural gas and exempt natural gas incurred by any pipeline unless such costs exceed the applicable price permitted under this Act. States that after the date of enactment of this Act, all sales of natural gas in interstate commerce that are not sales of old natural gas must comply with the provisions of this Act concerning new natural gas, unless such gas is exempt gas sold by a producer or small producer who qualifies as an independent. Allows a small producer to sell new natural gas in interstate or intrastate commerce at a price that exceeds the price authorized to be charged by a producer so long as such price does not exceed the applicable national or high-cost reproduction price by more than 50 percent. Provides that a producer or small producer which qualifies as an independent may charge any price for exempt natural gas on or after the date of enactment of this Act if such price does not exceed the average price of new domestic crude oil on the date such exempt natural gas is first dedicated. Requires all purchasers to file with the Commission all new natural gas and exempt natural gas sales contracts, transfer agreements, or any other transfer arrangements. States that with respect to old natural gas, the Commission is directed not to authorize any increase in the price charged by a producer or small producer except under enumerated circumstances. Requires all pipelines to give first priority for sales or transfers under the applicable tariff for old natural gas to local distribution companies to meet the requirements of each such local distribution company's residential users and small users to the extent old natural gas is available. Provides that sales of new natural gas or exempt natural gas by producers or small producers may be made without any application for a certificate of public convenience and necessity under the Natural Gas Act. Provides that, after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commission shall require all new natural gas pipeline transportation facilities on Federal lands to be common carriers available for use by any pipeline to transport natural gas upon payment of a reasonable transportation fee. Requires that natural gas producers on Federal lands undertake and complete exploratory and developmental programs to obtain maximum efficient levels of production at the earliest feasible date following the leasing of these lands. Requires that, after the date of enactment of this Act, all production of new natural gas or exempt natural gas from Federal lands shall be sold or transferred to a pipeline. Directs the Commission to conduct studies of production, gathering, storage, transportation, distribution and sale of natural, artificial, or synthetic gas. Directs the Commission to promulgate by rule a national plan to prohibit as soon as practicable the boiler fuel use of natural gas not initially contracted for prior to January 1, 1975 by users other than residential or small users. Prohibits any interruption or curtailment of natural gas service and requires necessary steps to assure as soon as practicable the availability in interstate commerce of sufficient quantities of natural gas for certain priority agricultural uses. Authorizes the Commission to declare a natural gas supply emergency within the service area of a pipeline which is unable or may be unable to supply its residential users, small users, hospitals, services and products vital to the public health and safety. Includes synthetic natural gas within the jurisdication of the Federal Power Commission.
Bill· HRH.R. 9508 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 1975
Increases the number of members on the board of directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority from three to five. Requires that all meetings of the board involving the transaction of business be open to the public. States that the board shall not consider a price or rate increase for electric power more often than once every two years, the first two year period to begin on the date of enactment of this Act.
Law· HRH.R. 9472 (94th)open
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1975
Increases from $5,000,000,000 to $15,000,000,000 the amount of bonds which may be issued by the Tennessee Valley Authority under the Tennessee Valley Authority Act. Provides for an annual payment, rather than semi-annual payments, to the Treasury of the United States of the power proceeds in excess of those obligated by bonds or bond contracts.
Bill· HRH.R. 9482 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1975
Black Lung Benefits Act - Changes from advisory to supervisory the function of the Committee on Coal Mine Health Research established by the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969. Requires that the chairman of the committee and a majority of the persons appointed by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare shall be miners, retired miners, disabled miners, widows or widows of miners, spouses of miners, and officers or employees of labor organizations which represent miners. Prohibits the Scretary from conducting any research on the occupational health of coal miners which has not been recommended by such committee. Expands the definition of "miner" as used in that Act to include individuals who worked around an underground coal mine in the extraction, processing, or transportation of coal. Redefines the term "total disability" as used in that Act to provide that a miner shall be considered totally disabled when pneumoconiosis prevents him from engaging in gainful employment requiring the skills and abilities comparable to those of any employment in a mine or mines in which he previously engaged with some regularity and over a substantial period of time. Provides that, in specified situations, if a miner was employed for 15 years or more in or by one or more coal mines, there shall be an irrebuttable presumption that he is totally disabled due to pneumoconiosis or that at the time of his death he was totally disabled by pneumoconiosis. States that where there is no relevant medical evidence in the case of a deceased miner affidavits may be sufficient to establish that the miner was totally disabled due to pneumoconiosis. Establishes in the United States Treasury the Black Lung Disability Insurance Fund. States that such fund shall consist of such sums as may be appropriated to it and such sums as coal mine operators may pay into it. Requires coal mine operators to pay sufficient annual premiums into the fund to provide for the payment of benefits. Provides that the premium rate shall be based on the number of tons of coal mined and shall be uniform for all mines and mine operators. Provides that such fund shall furnish miners entitled to benefits on account of total disability with medical services, nursing, hospital and home health services, medicine, therapy, and equipment necessary for treatment of conditions caused by pneumoconiosis. Allows payment of claims which were previously denied but would be payable under this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 9476 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 September 1975
Black Lung Benefits Act - Changes from advisory to supervisory the function of the Committee on Coal Mine Health Research established by the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969. Requires that the chairman of the committee and a majority of the persons appointed by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare shall be miners, retired miners, disabled miners, widows or widows of miners, spouses of miners, and officers or employees of labor organizations which represent miners. Prohibits the Scretary from conducting any research on the occupational health of coal miners which has not been recommended by such committee. Expands the definition of "miner" as used in that Act to include individuals who worked around an underground coal mine in the extraction, processing, or transportation of coal. Redefines the term "total disability" as used in that Act to provide that a miner shall be considered totally disabled when pneumoconiosis prevents him from engaging in gainful employment requiring the skills and abilities comparable to those of any employment in a mine or mines in which he previously engaged with some regularity and over a substantial period of time. Provides that, in specified situations, if a miner was employed for 15 years or more in or by one or more coal mines, there shall be an irrebuttable presumption that he is totally disabled due to pneumoconiosis or that at the time of his death he was totally disabled by pneumoconiosis. States that where there is no relevant medical evidence in the case of a deceased miner affidavits may be sufficient to establish that the miner was totally disabled due to pneumoconiosis. Establishes in the United States Treasury the Black Lung Disability Insurance Fund. States that such fund shall consist of such sums as may be appropriated to it and such sums as coal mine operators may pay into it. Requires coal mine operators to pay sufficient annual premiums into the fund to provide for the payment of benefits. Provides that the premium rate shall be based on the number of tons of coal mined and shall be uniform for all mines and mine operators. Provides that such fund shall furnish miners entitled to benefits on account of total disability with medical services, nursing, hospital and home health services, medicine, therapy, and equipment necessary for treatment of conditions caused by pneumoconiosis. Allows payment of claims which were previously denied but would be payable under this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 9437 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 September 1975
Industrial Energy Conservation Act - States that the energy needs of United States industry are increasing consistently, although energy resources are limited, and that the conservation of energy is therefore necessary. Declares that rapid development and cost-effectiveness demonstrations, and widespread application by industry, of energy-efficient technologies can be facilitated by Federal financial assistance in the form of research, development, and demonstration projects and through incentives to companies that invest in such technologies. States that it is the purpose of this Act to stimulate the development of energy-efficient technologies in American industry. Defines terms used in this Act. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to establish and maintain a program for research, development and demonstration of energy conserving industrial technologies, including: (1) basic and applied research under the control of the Administrator; (2) the development by the Administrator or private persons of prototypes or demonstration models of energy conserving technologies; and (3) the making of grants to private organizations to facilitate the incorporation of such technologies into commercial operating industrial plants, such projects to be used as demonstrations for other industrial facilities. Sets forth priorities to be observed by the Administrator in determining the recipients of grants under this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to make loans and loan guarantees for the purchase, construction, operation or maintenance of energy-efficient equipment or facilities. Enumerates priorities to be observed in making or guaranteeing such loans, including: (1) the extent to which a loan recipient is located within a depressed industrial area, and will contribute to the economic recovery of such area; (2) the extent to which such loan or guarantee will foster the widespread adoption of energy conservant technology; (3) the extent to which modernization, rather than replacement, of existing equipment will contribute to the purposes of this Act; and (4) the extent to which small businesses will be able to participate in the benefits resulting from this Act. Sets forth regulations governing the administration of loans and guarantees made pursuant to this Act. Requires that at least 60 percent of the funds available for loans and guarantees be allocated to recipients in depressed industrial areas. Sets forth additional regulations pertaining only to loan guarantees made pursuant to this Act. Limits the outstanding indebtedness guaranteed under this Act to $500,000,000 at any one time. States that no guarantee shall be made under this Act after September 30, 1977. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the purposes of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 9425 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 September 1975
Title I: Emergency Petroleum Allocation Extension Act - Extends the mandatory allocation program provisions of the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act of 1973 to October 20, 1975 (presently expires August 31, 1975). Title II: Coal Conversion Extension Act - Extends, until December 31, 1975, under the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974, the authority of the Federal Energy Administrator to prohibit by rule or order the use of petroleum or natural gas at installations capable of using coal to generate heat and power.
Bill· HRH.R. 9454 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 September 1975
Extends the provisions of the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act of 1973 from August 31, 1975 until October 31, 1975.
Bill· HRH.R. 9438 (94th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 September 1975
Solid Waste Energy and Resource Recovery Act - Sets forth the finding of Congress that there is a demand for new fuel sources in the United States; that fuels can be produced from solid waste, but that research into such fuel production is not coordinated at this time and that local municipal governments now bear the largest portion of the cost of such research; and that, therefore, there is a need for a federally coordinated program to provide State, regional, and local communities with assistance in developing solid waste energy and resource recovery systems and technology. Defines terms added by this Act to the Solid Waste Disposal Act. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency: (1) to assist with research projects for the development of pilot plant facilities for the purpose of investigating new fuels, recovery methods, or technology; (2) to conduct demonstrations of new methods and technology; and (3) to test and evaluate such pilot plants and demonstration projects. Directs the Administrator to establish a program for the collection and dissemination of information to assist Federal, State, interstate, regional, and local agencies in planning and building solid waste collection, recycling and recovery facilities. Sets forth specific areas to be covered by such program. Requires the Administrator to make grants to State, interstate, municipal and intermunicipal agencies for: (1) the implementation of solid waste management plans and planning programs; (2) the development and revision of solid waste disposal plans as part of regional environmental protection systems; (3) the development of interlocal regions and establishment of regional agencies; (4) the development of proposals for specified projects; and (5) the planning of programs for the removal and processing of abandoned motor vehicle bulks. Authorizes the Administrator to guarantee loans incurred by States, regional, or local government agencies to finance the construction of large-scale fuel, energy, or resource recovery facilities. Limits the total outstanding indebtedness allowed under this Act to $75,000,000. Sets forth procedures for applying for loan guarantees under this Act. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to a State, regional authority or local government agency for the construction, operation, or maintenance of fuel, energy or resource recovery facilities when such facilities cannot be financed by any other means. Limits the amount of each such grant to 25 percent of the total cost of the project. Authorizes appropriations for the purposes of this Act.