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Bill· HRH.R. 8793 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1977
National Electrical Energy Reliability and Conservation Act - Title I: National Power Grid and Regional Bulk Power Distribution - Creates a National Power Grid Corporation to establish and operate a national power grid system consisting of electric power generating facilities and a system of high voltage transmission lines. Authorizes regional corporations to act as exclusive marketing agents for the national grid in designated regions of the country. Authorizes electric utilities, publicly or privately owned, to enter into agreements for services with the regional corporation. Imposes specified conditions on any such contract for the National Grid which may be sold. Directs the National Grid to carry out a program of research and development in the area of electric power generation and transmission giving preference to environmental protection and land use research priorities. Authorizes up to $250,000,000 per fiscal year to carry out such program. Requires that at least two percent of the annual revenues collected by the National Grid be channeled into research and development activities. Transfers specified Federal generating and transmission facilities to the Grid. Title II: General Provisions Applicable to National Grid and to Regional Corporations - Stipulates that each corporation shall be subject to Federal, State, and local environmental standards. Specifies the interests to be represented on the Board of Directors of such corporations, and their composition, terms of members, procedures for selecting the officers, and employees of the corporations. Stipulates that the corporations shall have those powers conferred on nonprofit corporations pursuant to the District of Columbia Nonprofit Corporation Act and specified additional powers. Directs such corporations to at all times maintain complete and accurate books of accounts. Authorizes each corporation to issue and sell bonds for financing its activities, providing that the aggregate total of outstanding bonds shall not exceed $30,000,000,000. Authorizes each corporation to cause to be instituted condemnation proceedings against any lands or interests in land necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. Requires each corporation to report annually to the President and provide for transmittal of such report to the Congress.
Bill· HRH.R. 8794 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1977
Establishes within the Department of Energy an Office of Minority Economic Development to study the impact of national energy programs upon racial minorities and to encourage minority participation in energy programs and contract activities. Establishes a Minority Economic Development Trust Fund financed with one percent of the revenue collected under the taxing provisions of the National Energy Act to support activities and programs of minority institutions which conform to the purposes of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 8800 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1977
Oil Import Reduction Act - Directs the President to establish a seven-year national oil plan of planned oil production and planned oil demand. Stipulates that the maximum quantity of petroleum imports for calendar year 1979 and each year thereafter shall be determined by the President based on such plan. Establishes procedures for Congressional review of Presidential actions under this Act. Requires a majority vote of both Houses to register disapproval of oil import restrictions imposed under this Act. Amends the Trade Act of 1974 to conform with the provisions of this Act. Establishes an Office of Petroleum Imports in the Department of Energy to administer the import licensing system established by this Act. Establishes procedures governing the operation of such licensing system. Directs the President to establish a separate licensing system for small refiners and independent marketers of petroleum products. Directs the Administrator of the Office of Oil Imports to conduct an oil use analysis to develop a formula designed to equalize oil prices caused by higher costs of imported oil in certain districts. Revises duties imposed upon imported petroleum products. Amends the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to prohibit the President from adjusting imports of petroleum products except during times of war and national emergency.
Bill· SS. 1991 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1977
National Electrical Energy Reliability and Conservation Act - Title I: National Power Grid and Regional Bulk Power Distribution - Creates a National Power Grid Corporation to establish and operate a national power grid system consisting of electric power generating facilities and a system of high voltage transmission lines. Authorizes regional corporations to act as exclusive marketing agents for the national grid in designated regions of the country. Authorizes electric utilities, publicly or privately owned, to enter into agreements for services with the regional corporation. Imposes specified conditions on any such contract for the National Grid which may be sold. Directs the National Grid to carry out a program of research and development in the area of electric power generation and transmission giving preference to environmental protection and land use research priorities. Authorizes up to $250,000,000 per fiscal year to carry out such program. Requires that at least two percent of the annual revenues collected by the National Grid be channeled into research and development activities. Transfers specified Federal generating and transmission facilities to the Grid. Title II: General Provisions Applicable to National Grid and to Regional Corporations - Stipulates that each corporation shall be subject to Federal, State, and local environmental standards. Specifies the interests to be represented on the Board of Directors of such corporations, and their composition, terms of members, procedures for selecting the officers and employees of the corporations. Stipulates that the corporations shall have those powers conferred on nonprofit corporations pursuant to the District of Columbia Nonprofit Corporation Act and specified additional powers. Directs such corporations to at all times maintain complete and accurate books of accounts. Authorizes each corporation to issue and sell bonds for financing its activities, providing that the aggregate total of outstanding bonds shall not exceed $30,000,000,000. Authorizes each corporation to cause to be instituted condemnation proceedings against any lands or interests in land necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. Requires each corporation to report annually to the President and provide for transmittal of such report to the Congress.
Bill· SS. 1992 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1977
Industrial Energy Conservation Act - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish and maintain a program to promote increased energy efficiency by American industry. Directs the Administrator to establish industrial energy efficiency improvement targets for the ten leading energy-consuming industries. Directs the Administrator to establish national heating function efficiency targets. Requires major energy-consuming corporations to file semiannual reports with the Administrator on progress toward achieving energy efficiency targets. Directs the Administrator to publish an annual report on the overall progress toward achieving energy and heating function efficiency goals. Establishes judicial procedures to compel production of reports required by this Act. Authorizes non-disclosure of information containing trade secrets.
Bill· HRH.R. 8727 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1977
Directs the Secretary of the Navy to develop the Naval Petroleum Reserves numbered 1,2, and 3 to a capacity to produce at a maximum efficiency rate for national defense purposes. Directs the Secretary with respect to such reserves, during the period ending on April 5, 1982, to produce such reserves at the lowest rate sufficient to support the costs of exploration, development, and operation of the reserves and the costs of acquisitions for the reserves. Stipulates that the royalties accruing to the United States from reserve leases shall be determined without regard to Federal, State, or local regulations controlling sales or allocation of petroleum products. Authorizes the Secretary to exercise condemnation authority with respect to the Naval Petroleum Reserve Numbered 1 if production agreements are not reached within 90 days after the effective date of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 8708 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1977
Title I: Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to establish procedures for expeditious review of applications for the licensing of sites for nuclear production and utilization facilities. Directs the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to adhere to specified timetables for decisions on various classes of license applications. Requires that the Commission establish procedures, through arrangements with other Federal agencies, for the preparation of a single environmental impact statement for all related Federal actions by the Commission in connection with licensing of such facilities. Directs the Commission to coordinate the planning and scheduling of license and permit proceedings so as to eliminate duplication of functions. Authorizes the Commission to issue site permits for productions or utilization facilities where applications for construction permits have not been filed. Authorizes completion of up to 30 percent of all construction activities by applicants for construction licenses prior to license approval. Authorizes the issuance of combined construction permits and operating licenses. Authorizes the suspension of public hearing requirements for applications for construction and/or operating permits where a site approval permit has been obtained and where no person has requested such a hearing within 30 days of the publication of notice in the Federal Register. Requires that persons requesting such a hearing: (1) have an interest that may be affected by the operation; (2) show the existence of a genuine issue of material fact; and (3) show that a hearing is likely to result in some action which will provide additional protection for the public health and safety, national defense and security, or the environment. Prohibits the issuance of stays of operation pending the outcome of such hearing unless the criteria for issuance of a preliminary injunction is satisfied. Authorizes the Commission to issue interim operating licenses of up to 12 months prior to the completion of a required hearing where such interim license is found to be necessary in the public interest of avoiding undue delay. Stipulates that such interim licenses may be renewed for similar periods absent good cause shown to the contrary. Title II: Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to direct the Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards to review combined construction (operating permit) applications before the Commission. Title III: Revises provisions of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 for consistency with the provisions of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 8707 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1977
Solar Energy Bank Act - Creates a Government corporation to be known as the Solar Energy Development Bank to make long-term, low-interest loans to encourage the use of solar energy in commercial and residential dwellings. Establishes procedures governing the processing and approval of loan applications by the Bank. Prohibits conflicts of interest, on the part of officers or employees of the Bank. Prohibits the Bank or its employees from utilizing the Solar Bank to finance political activities. Imposes criminal penalties for the furnishing of false or misleading information by applicants for loans under this Act. Declares that the Solar Bank and its assets shall be exempt by Federal, State, and local taxation. Establishes a Solar Energy Fund in the Treasury of the United States to pay the expenses of the Bank. Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000,000 to the Fund.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 320 (95th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1977
Directs the Secretary of the Senate to make certain technical corrections in the enrollment of S. 826 (Department of Energy establishment).
Bill· HRH.R. 8680 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide tax exempt bond financing for production facilities for small public electric utilities.
Bill· HRH.R. 8679 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to exempt from taxation the interest on industrial development bonds issued for financing non-profit facilities for the production of electricity, if such facilities do not use petroleum or natural gas for a fuel.
Bill· HRH.R. 8675 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1977
Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to require the Federal Communications Commission to regulate the rates, terms, and conditions for pole attachments used for wire communication, in any case in which such rates, terms, and conditions are not regulated by any State authority. Stipulates that a just and reasonable rate shall assure the utility of recovery of not less than the additional costs of providing pole attachments nor more than the actual capital and operating expenses of the utility attributable to that portion of the pole used by the attachment.
Bill· HRH.R. 8642 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 July 1977
Abolishes the Joint Committee on Atomic Energy. Directs the transfer of all records of the Joint Committee to the committees of the Senate and House which have jurisdiction over the subject matters of such records. Requires the Energy Research and Development Administration and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to keep such committees informed of their respective activities. Requires the Department of Defense and Department of State to inform such committees of matters concerning national security considerations of nuclear technology.
Bill· HRH.R. 8608 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 July 1977
Mandatory Automotive Fuel Economy Act - Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to establish mandatory minimum motor vehicle fuel economy standards for passenger automobiles of 19 miles per gallon for model year 1982, 21 miles per gallon for model year 1983, 23 miles per gallon for model year 1984, and 25 miles per gallon for model year 1985. Empowers the limited States district courts to prohibit introduction of passenger automobiles in interstate commerce which do not meet such minimum fuel economy standards.
Bill· HRH.R. 8631 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 July 1977
Amends the Tax Reduction and Simplification Act to delay the effectiveness of its provisions pertaining to the minimum tax treatment of intangible drilling cost for one year, to 1979.
Bill· HRH.R. 8585 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1977
Natural Gas Supply and Conservation Act - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to regulate sales of new natural gas in interstate commerce. Stipulates that prices for offshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price of sales of new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices paid for natural gas in transactions between a natural gas company and its affiliates shall not exceed prices paid in comparable sales by persons not affiliated with any natural gas company. Amends the Emergency Natural Gas Act of 1977 to extend various emergency authorities under such Act through 1979. Establishes procedures for the setting of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands through April 20, 1982. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings set pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Establishes procedures governing the allocation of increased cost of natural gas to pipeline companies amongst various user classes.
Bill· HRH.R. 8569 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1977
Energy Technology Availability Act - Amends the Clayton Act to make it unlawful for any person owning any nonnuclear energy technology to refuse or fail to make it available to any qualified applicant at reasonable rates on reasonable and nondiscriminatory terms for use in the development, demonstration, or commercial application of any nonnuclear energy process or system.
Bill· HRH.R. 8574 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1977
Horizontal Divestiture in the Energy Industries Act - Revises the Clayton Act to make it unlawful, after a specified date, for any corporation or association affecting commerce to control mineral deposits in two or more of the following classes: (1) coal; (2) petroleum and natural gas; or (3) uranium and other fissionable minerals. Requires any corporation or association that would be in violation of this Act, but for the specified compliance date, to submit plans to the Federal Trade Commission for compliance by such date.
Bill· HRH.R. 8568 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1977
National Crude Oil Supply and Transportation Act -- Expresses the intent of Congress that the continuation of a transportation system to deliver Alaskan crude oil to Northern Tier or inland States be accomplished through expedited administrative procedures. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish a time schedule for the completion of required environmental impact statements in order to select a crude oil transportation system by February 1, 1978. Establishes criteria to be considered by the Secretary in selecting a transportation route. Establishes procedures for Congressional review and disapproval of the Secretary's decision. Directs the Secretary and other appropriate Federal officials to take all actions necessary to provide rights of-way, permits, leases, and other authorizations necessary for the instruction, operation and maintenance of the transportation system approved under this Act. Declares that the actions of Federal officers and agencies under this Act shall not be subject to judicial review by the courts. Allows for claims that: (1) actions under this Act will deny Constitutional rights; and (2) actions taken are beyond the scope of authority conferred by this Act, provided that such claims are filed within 60 days following the date of the challenged action. Vests exclusive jurisdiction to hear such claims in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, acting as a special court. Stipulates that any judicial proceedings should be completed at the earliest possible date. Declares that nothing in this Act shall authorize or imply an exemption from any provision of the antitrust laws.
Bill· HRH.R. 8564 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1977
Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to require the Federal Communications Commission to regulate the rates, terms, and conditions for pole attachments used for wire communication, in any case in which such rates, terms, and conditions are not regulated by any State authority. Stipulates that a just and reasonable rate shall assure the utility of recovery of not less than the additional costs of providing pole attachments nor more than the actual capital and operating expenses of the utility attributable to that portion of the pole used by the attachment.
Bill· HRH.R. 8571 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1977
Federal Energy Leasing Limitations Act - Revises Federal mineral leasing laws to prohibit companies from acquiring control over more than one of the following energy assets; coal, uranium or other fissionable minerals, or oil or natural gas. Stipulates that such prohibition shall take effect after December 31, 1979.
Bill· HRH.R. 8555 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1977
National Energy Supply and Conservation Act - Establishes the following national energy goals for 1985: (1) reduction of annual growth rate to 2.5 percent, with eventual reduction to two percent by 1995; (2) reduction of oil imports to less than five million barrels per day through increases in domestic production of oil, natural gas, and synthetic fuels by 2.0, 0.75, and 1.0 million barrels per day, respectively; (3) reduction of gasoline consumption of ten percent from 1977 levels; (4) increased energy efficiency in heating and cooling systems in 90 percent of homes, schools, and hospitals; (5) increased coal production of at least 400 million tons over 1976 levels; and (6) use of solar energy in more than 2.5 million homes. Title I: Pricing, Regulatory, and Other Nontax Provisions - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish procedures for the submission, approval, and implementation of residential energy conservation plans by State utility regulatory authorities. Establishes criteria governing programs to be carried out by public utilities as part of such energy conservation plans. Authorizes the Administrator to implement and enforce a Federal plan in the event of inadequate State action. Amends the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act of 1976 to authorize assistance under the Federal Energy Administration weatherization grant program to families with incomes of up to 125 percent of the poverty level. Directs the Administrator to develop regulations designed to include use of optimum cost-effective energy conservation measures in such program. Increases the appropriations authorized for such program to $130,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 and $200,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1979 and 1980. Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to establish a weatherization grant program designed to achieve energy conservation objectives. Amends the Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to order the Federal National Mortgage Association to provide financial assistance for the purchase of energy conserving improvements for low and moderate income dwellings. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize the Secretary to insure loans for such energy conservation improvements. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish a program of grants and technical assistance to States and localities for energy-conserving measures in buildings of local governmental units. Authorizes the appropriation of $7,500,000 for each of fiscal year 1978 and 1979 for preliminary energy audits for such purposes and $25,000,000 for each of such fiscal years for technical assistance. Amends the National Housing Act and the Housing Act of 1949 to require promotion of the use of energy saving techniques through minimum property standards for newly constructed residential housing. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to study the feasibility of requiring all residential dwelling units to meet energy efficiency standards. Amends the Energy Conservation Standards for New Buildings Act of 1976 to authorize the appropriation of an additional $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1978 and 1979 for grants to States and localities under such Act. Directs the Federal Energy Administrator, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Administrator of the Community Services Administration to conduct a joint study of the weatherization activities undertaken after the enactment of this Act. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish energy efficiency standards for specified household appliances. Stipulates that such standards shall reflect the maximum improvement in energy efficiency which is technologically and economically feasible. Authorizes additional appropriations to the Administrator for fiscal year 1977 to carry out such functions. Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to require disclosure of additional information relating to tax liability based on automobile fuel economy. Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission to prescribe rules requiring disclosure of such tax information in television advertisements. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish targets for specified industries for increased use of energy-saving recovered materials by 1987. Requires major corporations in the affected industries to file reports on progress toward achieving such targets. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to make grants to States for projects to assist schools and health care facilities under approved energy conservation plans. Establishes guidelines and criteria governing the submission of such plans by State Governors to the Administrator for approval. Establishes criteria governing the allotment of Federal funds to States for such purposes. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980 for such grants. Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to regulate sales of new natural gas in interstate commerce. Stipulates that prices for offshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices paid for natural gas in transactions between a natural gas company and its affiliates shall not exceed prices paid in comparable sales by persons not affiliated with any natural gas company. Amends the Emergency Natural Gas Act of 1977 to extend various emergency authorities under such Act through 1979. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands through April 20, 1982. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Establishes procedures governing the allocation of increased costs of natural gas to pipeline companies amongst various user classes. Stipulates that such amendments to the Natural Gas Act shall not take effect until April 30, 1978. Prescribes national minimum standards for State-regulated electric utilities with respect to rates and pollution control costs. Requires that utility rate schedules reflect actual costs of service. Prohibits increases in rates by utilities without prior approval following evidentiary hearings. Requires utilities to offer alternative load management techniques to reduce maximum kilowatt demand. Directs the Federal Power Commission to consider imposing restrictions on the use of bulk or master meters in buildings. Requires disclosure of proposed and existing rate schedules by utilities to consumers. Authorizes consumer intervention in utility rate proceedings. Establishes enforcement and judicial review procedures for utility regulatory provisions of this Act. Amends the Federal Power Act to authorize the Federal Power Commission to provide pooling, wheeling, and other additional services in connection with the transmission of power. Directs the Commission to require utilities to report anticipated shortages and to prescribe rules prohibiting discrimination against cogenerators in the sale and purchase of electric energy. Prescribes procedures for consideration of proposed changes in electric utility rate schedules by the Commission. Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to authorize the Federal Energy Administrator to make grants to State utility regulatory commissions for the following purposes: (1) to increase the quantity and quality of State regulatory staff; (2) to establish programs to meet Federal consumer representation requirements; and (3) to demonstrate innovative rate structures. Authorizes the appropriation of $40,000,000 in any fiscal year for grants to improve staffing. Authorizes the appropriations of $5,000,000 for grants for consumer representation, and $5,000,000 for grants for rate structure innovation. Amends the Federal Power Act to establish an Office of Public Counsel in the Federal Power Commission for the purpose of adequate representation of consumer interests before the Commission. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1978 through 1981 for such Office. Authorizes the Office to pay reasonable fees to certain participants in evidentiary hearings, not to exceed $2,000,000 for all such persons in any fiscal year. Prohibits new electric powerplants and other major fuel-burning installations from using natural gas or petroleum as a primary energy source. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to prohibit existing facilities from using such products in accordance with prescribed criteria. Directs the Administrator to grant exemptions from such requirements for specified reasons. Authorizes the appropriation of $11,500,000 to the Administrator for fiscal year 1978 to carry out such coal conversion authority. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to monitor the emission of powerplants and major fuel-burning installations required to convert to coal and other fuels under this Act. Authorizes $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 for such study. Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to study the socioeconomic impacts of expanded coal production resulting from this Act. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to authorize additional appropriations to the President to carry out Federal energy conservation programs established under the Act. Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to establish a program to demonstrate solar heating and cooling technology in Federal buildings. Establishes criteria governing the submission of proposals by the Administrator. Authorizes the appropriation of $100,000,000 through fiscal year 1980 for such program. Directs the Administrator to establish procedures governing the use of life cycle cost methods for evaluating energy requirements and alternatives for Federal buildings. Directs the Administrator to establish energy performance targets for existing buildings. Requires energy audits and retrofitting of existing Federal buildings to achieve compliance with such guidelines. Amends the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act of 1973 to direct the President to establish ceiling prices for first sales of domestically-produced new crude oil based on weighted averages of prior sales prices for foreign-produced crude oil. Directs the President to establish price ceilings for sales of domestically-produced old crude oil at stipulated levels. Stipulates that such Presidential authority to regulate crude oil prices shall become discretionary 20 months after the enactment of this amendment, without regard to other restrictions contained in such Act. Stipulates that authority to establish ceiling prices for new crude oil shall extend beyond the September 30, 1981 termination date of the Act. Directs the President to submit annual reports to the Congress on the savings in energy use achieved under each of the programs contained in this Title. Title II: Tax Provisions - Energy Tax Act - Allows a nonrefundable income tax credit for a portion of the expenses incurred by an individual for the installation of solar energy and wind equipment, insulation, and other energy savings components during taxable years 1977 through 1985, in a pre- existing dwelling unit. Limits the credits taken by an individual for each dwelling by specific amounts for different types of expenditures. Imposes an additional excise tax on automobiles to penalize vehicles with poor fuel efficiency. Establishes an initial tax scale for the 1979 model year, ranging from $553 on automobiles with less than 13 miles per gallon (mpg) fuel economy to no tax on automobiles with 15 mpg or better. Increases this tax over six years to a final scale for 1985 and later model years ranging from $3,856 on cars with less than 12.5 mpg fuel economy, to no tax on cars achieving 23.5 mpg or better. Provides that transfers received under this "Gas Guzzler Tax" are to be paid into a new Treasury trust fund (the Public Debt Retirement Trust Fund) and applied towards the retirement of the public debt. Postpones the scheduled rate reductions for the excise taxes on gasoline and other motor fuels from 1979 to 1985. Increases the motorboat fuel tax by two cents a gallon. Provides that such taxes will no longer be paid into the Land and Water Trust Fund after 1978, replacing the former 1980 cutoff date. Repeals the excise tax on motor bus bodies and chassis. Refunds excise taxes paid by producers, manufacturers, and importers on buses sold to intermediate dealers, but not yet sold to the ultimate purchaser, where corresponding refunds are made to the dealers and on buses sold to ultimate purchasers after April 20, 1977 and before the first date after this enactment. Repeals the excise tax on bus parts and accessories. Repeals the excise tax on tires, tubes and tread rubber used on buses used predominantly in transporting students and school employees, or on scheduled, common carrier, local, or intercity routes. Refunds the excise taxes paid on gasoline, other motor fuels, and lubricating oil used in such buses. Allows individuals an income tax credit for the first $300 in expenses incurred for the acquisition of any new electric motor vehicle, designed for non-rail transportation on public streets, after April 20, 1977 and before 1983. Imposes a crude oil equalization tax on domestically produced crude oil and liquid natural gas on the initial vendor for an amount gradually equalling the cost of imported oil. Terminates this tax September 30, 1981. Allows the President, subject to the disapproval of either House of Congress, to suspend increases in such tax for up to one year where the President determines it would have a serious effect on the United States economy when combined with new price increases for imported oil. Refunds up to 50 percent of the taxes paid by first sellers of crude oil for investments in new energy production. Directs the Secretary of Energy to report to Congress within 90 days of this enactment on the competitive viability of small and independent refiners, the effects of this tax on them, and remedial legislation the Secretary deems appropriate. Excludes refunds and taxes received from the initial purchaser from the vendor's gross income for income tax purposes. Rebates receipts on this tax attributable to domestically refined distillate fuel oil, as determined by the Secretary of Energy, to retailers where they have sold and delivered the oil into the tank of a school, hospital, church or residential structure, and reduces the purchaser's price by an equivalent amount. Provides an increase in the earned income credit and a rate decrease in the lower individual income tax brackets for tax years beginning in 1978. Provides for the payment of crude oil tax payments into a Crude Oil Equalization Taxes Trust Fund to be managed by the Secretary of the Treasury and to be disbursed or invested in United States obligations, and to States for the development of mass transit systems. Establishes an excise tax on the business use of oil and gas. Provides different tax rates for uses of oil (including all petroleum and petroleum fuel products except natural gas and gasoline) according to three "tiers" of usage, the highest tier tax rate being provided electric energy producers with the lowest rate applied against uses in internal combustion engines. Exempts a large number of uses from the tax (generally applying to residential, transportation, petrochemical, retail, and non-manufacturing activities, as well as uses where substitute fuels are not feasible or are precluded by Federal or State pollution regulations). Allows each taxpayer an exempt amount of 50,000 barrels of oil (or its BTU equivalent) for application in taxable business uses. Provides for the reclassification of uses by the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the appropriate Federal agencies, where a lower tax classification is consistent with the policy to encourage conversion from, or conservation of, oil and gas, or where a specific facility is otherwise granted an exemption under this Act on its use of petroleum fuels. Applies different tax rates for two tiers of natural gas usages, (internal combustion and utility uses) the rates for non-utility/energy producers uses gradually filling the "price gap" in the user's geographic area between natural gas and more expensive petroleum, but not exceeding the price for BTU equivalent residual fuel oil. Provides a ten percent reduction in the taxes due on natural gas acquired under interruptible contracts. Defines the tiers of natural gas uses and exempt uses of natural gas in the same manner as for business uses of oil, lumping natural gas and oil together for purposes of computing the user's exempt amount. Allows the President to suspend this tax, subject to the disapproval of either House of Congress, for up to one year. Allows taxpayers to elect a nonrefundable credit against the tax on business use of oil and gas for new depreciable property, acquired before 1991, which uses alternative fuels, or is used for transporting or producing alternative fuels, or is supplementary pollution control property otherwise required by law. Allows a carryover of the tax credit to the extent it exceeds current liability. Allows a carryover to 1981 of tax liability for 1978 and 1980. Requires that the election for such credit be made before or on the taxpayer's filing deadline for the first taxable year ending after 1978, or 1982 in the case of a regulated public utility. Prescribes special administrative provisions and definitions for property eligible for this credit. Allows a taxpayer to elect a regular investment tax credit for this credit. Allows a taxpayer to elect a regular investment tax credit for this property to the extent that it qualifies for the same, and to the extent that the taxpayer's current liability for the business use tax (minus carryovers) is exceeded by the allowable business use tax credit. Provides an additional business investment tax credit of ten percent for the period April 20, 1977 through 1982 for property which is not qualified for the regular investment credit but which is alternative energy equipment, recycling equipment, or is otherwise qualified under the definitions of this Act, or under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, to cover energy efficient property. Denies the investment tax credit for air conditioning and heating units, and boilers and combustors fueled by petroleum or petroleum products (including natural gas) where coal is not prohibited by Federal or State pollution regulations. Limits the depreciation deduction of petroleum, petroleum product, or natural gas fueled boilers placed in service after June 30, 1977, to the straight line method. Allows the straight line depreciation deduction for boilers in use before April 21, 1977, to be taken against a line "drawn" to any early retirement dates established by the taxpayer for the boilers to the satisfaction of the Secretary of the Treasury. Makes the Tax Reduction and Simplification Act's temporary reduction in the minimum tax preference for intangible drilling costs a permanent reduction. Allows the deduction of intangible drilling expenses for geothermal wells to the same extent and manner as drilling expenses for gas and oil wells. Allows a ten percent depletion deduction for geothermal deposits, provided that it does not exceed the property's adjusted basis. Extends the excise tax exemption for lubricating oil to cover oils used in producing rerefined lubricating oil. Directs the President to make annual reports to Congress on the tax, energy and other relevant effects of this Title's provisions. Establishes congressional procedures for disapproval, by either House, of Presidential suspensions of the energy excise taxes. Provides administrative provisions for the collection, determination and disbursement of the taxes, rebates, credits, and deductions established under this Title.
Bill· SS. 1927 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 1977
Energy Industry Competition and Performance Act - Makes it unlawful for any major petroleum producer to acquire or retain any interest or control over any coal or uranium asset. Defines control as a direct or indirect legal or beneficial interest in, or direct or indirect legal power or influence over, another person, arising through direct, indirect, or interlocking ownership of capital stock, interlocking directorates or officers, or contractual relations which substantially impair the independent business behavior of another person. Requires each major petroleum producer who owns or controls any interest in any coal or uranium asset to file a report with the Federal Trade Commission listing its interest in such assets. Sets forth the procedure to be followed by each major petroleum producer for the divestment of its interest in such assets. Grants primary oversight jurisdiction to the Federal Trade Commission and specified enforcement powers to the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Department of Justice. Prescribes civil penalties for violations of this Act. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to report to the Congress on the extent to which the control of solar energy technology by major petroleum producers may be retarding the production of solar energy.
Bill· HRH.R. 8542 (95th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 1977
Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to abolish the Joint Committee on Atomic Energy. Transfers all records of the Joint Committee to the Senate and House committees having jurisdiction over the subject matter of such records. Requires the Energy Research and Development Administration and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to keep the Senate and House committees having jurisdiction over the functions of the Administration or the Commission informed of their activities. Requires the Department of Defense and the Department of State to keep the Senate and House committees having jurisdiction over national security considerations of nuclear energy informed with respect to such matters.
Bill· HRH.R. 8546 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 1977
Diesel Fuel and Gasoline Conservation Act - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 to authorize sellers of goods under a uniform zone delivered pricing system to grant backhaul allowances to buyers where (1) the backhaul function is actually performed by the buyer; (2) where the allowance is no greater than actual savings in delivery costs and (3) where such allowances are available to all customers on a nondiscriminatory basis.
Bill· SS. 1916 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1977
Energy Resources Competition Act - Makes it unlawful for any person who has any interest in any petroleum business, coal business, oil shale business, uranium business, nuclear reactor business, geothermal steam business, or solar energy business to acquire any interest or control in any petroleum business, coal business, oil shale business, nuclear reactor business, geothermal steam business, or solar energy business except that such limitation shall not apply to the acquisition of any interest in the same primary energy business as that of the acquiring person. States that no person engaged in the petroleum business shall be permitted to acquire a lease of any Federal interest in real property, including the Outer Continential Shelf, the purpose of which is to extract or produce any energy resources other than petroleum or natural gas. Sets forth criminal and civil penalties for violations of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 8506 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1977
Pipeline Divestiture Act - Title I: Industry Competition - Prohibits, five years after of enactment of this Act, petroleum transporters from controlling any interest in petroleum production, refining, transportation, or marketing assets. Prohibits any person from transporting any energy resource or refined product in which he has any interest by means of any transportation asset in which he has any interest. Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission to exempt corporations formed or reorganized as a result of compliance with this Act from provisions of the antitrust laws with respect to interlocking directorates for a period not to exceed one year. Requires producers subject to the provisions of this act to submit plans to the Commission for the divestiture of prohibited assets within 18 months after the enactment of this Act. Imposes civil penalties of up to $100,000 for an individual and up to $1,000,000 for a corporation for violations of the provisions of this Act. Imposes a civil penalty of up to $100,000 for violations of lawful orders issued by the Commission pursuant to this Act. Stipulates that each day of a continuing violation shall be deemed a separate offense. Title II: Temporary Petroleum Industry Divestiture Court - Creates a Temporary Petroleum Industry Divestiture Court composed of Federal judges appointed by the Chief Justice of the United States. Stipulates that such court shall have exclusive jurisdiction over all cases relating to the provisions of this Act. Stipulates that review of the decisions of the court may be obtained only by petition to the Supreme Court of the United States.
Bill· HRH.R. 8500 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1977
National Energy Supply and Conservation Act - Establishes the following national energy goals for 1985: (1) reduction of annual growth rate to 2.5 percent, with eventual reduction to two percent by 1995; (2) reduction of oil imports to less than five million barrels per day through increases in domestic production of oil, natural gas, and synthetic fuels by 2.0, 0.75, and 1.0 million barrels per day, respectively; (3) reduction of gasoline consumption of ten percent from 1977 levels; (4) increased energy efficiency in heating and cooling systems in 90 percent of homes, schools, and hospitals; (5) increased coal production of at least 400 million tons over 1976 levels; and (6) use of solar energy in more than 2.5 million homes. Title I: Pricing, Regulatory, and Other Nontax Provisions - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish procedures for the submission, approval, and implementation of residential energy conservation plans by State utility regulatory authorities. Establishes criteria governing programs to be carried out by public utilities as part of such energy conservation plans. Authorizes the Administrator to implement and enforce a Federal plan in the event of inadequate State action. Amends the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act of 1976 to authorize assistance under the Federal Energy Administration weatherization grant program to families with incomes of up to 125 percent of the poverty level. Directs the Administrator to develop regulations designed to include use of optimum cost-effective energy conservation measures in such program. Increases the appropriations authorized for such program to $130,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 and $200,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1979 and 1980. Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to establish a weatherization grant program designed to achieve energy conservation objectives. Amends the Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to order the Federal National Mortgage Association to provide financial assistance for the purchase of energy conserving improvements for low and moderate income dwellings. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize the Secretary to insure loans for such energy conservation improvements. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish a program of grants and technical assistance to States and localities for energy-conserving measures in buildings of local governmental units. Authorizes the appropriations of $7,500,000 for each of fiscal years 1978 and 1979 for preliminary energy audits for such purposes and $25,000,000 for each of such fiscal years for technical assistance. Amends the National Housing Act and the Housing Act of 1949 to require promotion of the use of energy saving techniques through minimum property standards for newly constructed residential housing. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to study the feasibility of requiring all residential dwelling units to meet energy efficiency standards. Amends the Energy Conservation Standards for New Buildings Act of 1976 to authorize the appropriation of an additional $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1978 and 1979 for grants to States and localities under such Act. Directs the Federal Energy Administrator, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Administrator of the Community Services Administration to conduct a joint study of the weatherization activities undertaken after the enactment of this Act. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish energy efficiency standards for specified household appliances. Stipulates that such standards shall reflect the maximum improvement in energy efficiency which is technologically and economically feasible. Authorizes additional appropriations to the Administrator for fiscal year 1977 to carry out such functions. Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to require disclosure of additional information relating to tax liability based on automobile fuel economy. Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission to prescribe rules requiring disclosure of such tax information in television advertisements. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish targets for specified industries for increased use of energy-saving recovered materials by 1987. Requires major corporations in the affected industries to file reports on progress toward achieving such targets. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to make grants to States for projects to assist schools and health care facilities under approved energy conservation plans. Establishes guidelines and criteria governing the submission of such plans by State Governors to the Administrator for approval. Establishes criteria governing the allotment of Federal funds to States for such purposes. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980 for such grants. Natural Gas Act Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to regulate sales of new natural gas in interstate commerce. Stipulates that prices for offshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices paid for natural gas in transactions between a natural gas company and its affiliates shall not exceed prices paid in comparable sales by persons not affiliated with any natural gas company. Amends the Emergency Natural Gas Act of 1977 to extend various emergency authorities under such Act through 1979. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands through April 20, 1982. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within high-cost production areas. Establishes procedures for adjustments to price ceilings established pursuant to this Act. Directs the Commission to prohibit the curtailment of adequate supplies of natural gas for essential agricultural purposes. Establishes procedures governing the allocation of increased costs of natural gas to pipeline companies amongst various user classes. Stipulates that such amendments to the Natural Gas Act shall not take effect until April 30, 1978. Prescribes national minimum standards for State-regulated electric utilities with respect to rates and pollution control costs. Requires that utility rate schedules reflect actual costs of service. Prohibits increases in rates by utilities without prior approval following evidentiary hearings. Requires utilities to offer alternative load management techniques to reduce maximum kilowatt demand. Directs the Federal Power Commission to consider imposing restrictions on the use of bulk or master meters in buildings. Requires disclosure of proposed and existing rate schedules by utilities to consumers. Authorizes consumer intervention in utility rate proceedings. Establishes enforcement and judicial review procedures for utility regulatory provisions of this Act. Amends the Federal Power Act to authorize the Federal Power Commission to provide pooling, wheeling, and other additional services in connection with the transmission of power. Directs the Commission to require utilities to report anticipated shortages and to prescribe rules prohibiting discrimination against cogenerators in the sale and purchase of electric energy. Prescribes procedures for consideration of proposed changes in electric utility rate schedules by the Commission. Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to authorize the Federal Energy Administrator to make grants to State utility regulatory commissions for the following purposes: (1) to increase the quantity and quality of State regulatory staff; (2) to establish programs to meet Federal consumer representation requirements; and (3) to demonstrate innovative rate structures. Authorizes the appropriation of $40,000,000 in any fiscal year for grants to improve staffing. Authorizes the appropriations of $5,000,000 for grants for consumer representation, and $5,000,000 for grants for rate structure innovation. Amends the Federal Power Act to establish an Office of Public Counsel in the Federal Power Commission for the purpose of adequate representation of consumer interests before the Commission. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1978 through 1981 for such Office. Authorizes the Office to pay reasonable fees to certain participants in evidentiary hearings, not to exceed $2,000,000 for all such persons in any fiscal year. Prohibits new electric powerplants and other major fuel-burning installations from using natural gas or petroleum as a primary energy source. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to prohibit existing facilities from using such products in accordance with prescribed criteria. Directs the Administrator to grant exemptions from such requirements for specified reasons. Authorizes the appropriation of $11,500,000 to the Administrator for fiscal year 1978 to carry out such coal conversion authority. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to monitor the emission of powerplants and major fuel-burning installations required to convert to coal and other fuels under this Act. Authorizes $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 for such study. Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to study the socioeconomic impacts of expanded coal production resulting from this Act. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to authorize additional appropriations to the President to carry out Federal energy conservation programs established under the Act. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to establish a van pooling program for officers and employees of the Federal Government. Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to establish a program to demonstrate solar heating and cooling technology in Federal buildings. Establishes criteria governing the submission of proposals by the Administrator. Authorizes the appropriation of $100,000,000 through fiscal year 1980 for such program. Directs the Administrator to establish procedures governing the use of life cycle cost methods for evaluating energy requirements and alternatives for Federal buildings. Directs the Administrator to establish energy performance targets for existing buildings. Requires energy audits and retrofitting of existing Federal buildings to achieve compliance with such guidelines. Amends the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act of 1973 to direct the President to establish ceiling prices for first sales of domestically-produced new crude oil based on weighted averages of prior sales for domestically-produced crude oil which is exempt from regulation. Federal Photovoltaic Utilization Act - Establishes a photovaltaic energy commercialization program for the accelerated procurement of photovoltaic solar electric systems in new and existing Federal facilities, primarily for use by the Department of Defense. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to make contracts for the acquisition of such photovoltaic systems. Directs the Administrator, together with the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration, to jointly establish a photovoltaic systems evaluation and purchase program designed to insure that such systems reflect the most advanced technology. Establishes an advisory committee to assist in the establishment and conduct of the program. Authorizes the appropriation of $39,000,000 for photovoltaic system acquisition for fiscal years 1978 through 1981. Directs the President to submit annual reports to the Congress on the savings in energy use achieved under each of the programs contained in this Title. Title II: Tax Provisions - Energy Tax Act - Allows a nonrefundable income tax credit for a portion of the expenses incurred by an individual for the installation of solar energy and wind equipment, insulation, and other energy savings components during taxable years 1977 through 1985, in a pre-existing dwelling unit. Limits the credits taken by an individual for each dwelling by specific amounts for different types of expenditures. Imposes an additional excise tax on automobiles to penalize vehicles with poorer fuel efficiency. Establishes an initial tax scale for the 1979 model year, ranging from $553 on automobiles with less than 13 miles per gallon (mpg) fuel economy to no tax on automobiles with 15 mpg or better. Increases this tax over six years to a final scale for 1985 and later model years ranging from $3,856 on cars with less than 12.5 mpg fuel economy, to no tax on cars achieving 23.5 mpg or better. Provides that transfers received under this "Gas Guzzler Tax" are to be paid into a new Treasury trust fund (the Public Debt Retirement Trust Fund) and applied towards the retirement of the public debt. Postpones the scheduled rate reductions for the excise taxes on gasoline and other motor fuels from 1979 to 1985. Increases the motorboat fuel tax by two cents a gallon. Provides that such taxes will no longer be paid into the Land and Water Trust Fund after 1978, replacing the former 1980 cutoff date. Repeals the excise tax on motor bus bodies and chassis. Refunds excise taxes paid by producers, manufacturers, and importers on buses sold to intermediate dealers, but not yet sold to the ultimate purchaser, where corresponding refunds are made to the dealers and on buses sold to ultimate purchasers after April 20, 1977 and before the first date after this enactment. Repeals the excise tax on bus parts and accessories. Repeals the excise tax on tires, tubes and tread rubber used on buses used predominantly in transporting students and school employees, or on scheduled, common carrier, local, or intercity routes. Refunds the excise taxes paid on gasoline, other motor fuels, and lubricating oil used in such buses. Allows individuals an income tax credit for the first $300 in expenses incurred for the acquisition of any new electric motor vehicle, designed for non-rail transportation on public streets, after April 20, 1977 and before 1983. Imposes a crude oil equalization tax on domestically produced crude oil and liquid natural gas on the initial vendor for an amount gradually equalling the cost of imported oil. Terminates this tax September 30, 1981. Allows the President, subject to the disapproval of either House of Congress, to suspend increases in such tax for up to one year where the President determines it would have a serious effect on the United States economy when combined with new price increases for imported oil. Refunds up to 50 percent of the taxes paid by first sellers of crude oil for investments in new energy production. Directs the Secretary of Energy to report to Congress within 90 days of this enactment on the competitive viability of small and independent refiners, the effects of this tax on them, and remedial legislation the Secretary deems appropriate. Excludes refunds and taxes received from the initial purchaser from the vendor's gross income for income tax purposes. Rebates receipts on this tax attributable to domestically refined distillate fuel oil, as determined by the Secretary of Energy, to retailers where they have sold and delivered the oil into the tank of a school, hospital, church or residential structure, and reduces the purchaser's price by an equivalent amount. Provides an increase in the earned income credit and a rate decrease in the lower individual income tax brackets for tax years beginning in 1978. Provides for the payment of crude oil tax payments into a Crude Oil Equalization Taxes Trust Fund to be managed by the Secretary of the Treasury and to be disbursed or invested in United States obligations, and to States for the development of mass transit systems. Establishes an excise tax on the business use of oil and gas. Provides different tax rates for uses of oil (including all petroleum and petroleum fuel products except natural gas and gasoline) according to three "tiers" of usage, the highest tier tax rate being provided electric energy producers with the lowest rate applied against uses in internal combustion engines. Exempts a large number of uses from the tax (generally applying to residential, transportation, petrochemical, retail, and non-manufacturing activities, as well as uses where substitute fuels are not feasible or are precluded by Federal or State pollution regulations). Allows each taxpayer an exempt amount of 50,000 barrels of oil (or its BTU equivalent) for application in taxable business uses. Provides for the reclassification of uses by the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the appropriate Federal agencies, where a lower tax classification is consistent with the policy to encourage conversion from, or conservation of, oil and gas, or where a specific facility is otherwise granted an exemption under this Act on its use of petroleum fuels. Applies different tax rates for two tiers of natural gas usages, (internal combustion and utility uses) the rates for non-utility/energy producers uses gradually filling the "price gap" in the user's geographic area between natural gas and more expensive petroleum, but not exceeding the price for BTU equivalent residual fuel oil. Provides a ten percent reduction in the taxes due on natural gas acquired under interruptible contracts. Defines the tiers of natural gas uses and exempt uses of natural gas in the same manner as for business uses of oil, lumping natural gas and oil together for purposes of computing the user's exempt amount. Allows the President to suspend this tax, subject to the disapproval of either House of Congress, for up to one year. Allows taxpayers to elect a nonrefundable credit against the tax on business use of oil and gas for new depreciable property, acquired before 1991, which uses alternative fuels, or is used for transporting or producing alternative fuels, or is supplementary pollution control property otherwise required by law. Allows a carryover of the tax credit to the extent it exceeds current liability. Allows a carryover to 1981 of tax liability for 1978 and 1980. Requires that the election for such credit be made before or on the taxpayer's filing deadline for the first taxable year ending after 1978, or 1982 in the case of a regulated public utility. Prescribes special administrative provisions and definitions for property eligible for this credit. Allows a taxpayer to elect a regular investment tax credit for this property to the extent that it qualifies for the same, and to the extent that the taxpayer's current liability for the business use tax (minus carryovers) is exceeded by the allowable business use tax credit. Provides an additional business investment tax credit of ten percent for the period April 20, 1977 through 1982 for property which is not qualified for the regular investment credit but which is alternative energy equipment, recycling equipment, or is otherwise qualified under the definitions of this Act, or under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, to cover energy efficient property. Denies the investment tax credit for air conditioning and heating units, and boilers and combustors fueled by petroleum or petroleum products (including natural gas) where coal is not prohibited by Federal or State pollution regulations. Limits the depreciation deduction of petroleum, petroleum product, or natural gas fueled boilers placed in service after June 30, 1977, to the straight line method. Allows the straight line depreciation deduction for boilers in use before April 21, 1977, to be taken against a line "drawn" to any early retirement dates established by the taxpayer for the boilers to the satisfaction of the Secretary of the Treasury. Makes the Tax Reduction and Simplification Act's temporary reduction in the minimum tax preference for intangible drilling costs a permanent reduction. Allows the deduction of intangible drilling expenses for geothermal wells to the same extent and manner as drilling expenses for gas and oil wells. Allows a ten percent depletion deduction for geothermal deposits, provided that it does not exceed the property's adjusted basis. Extends the excise tax exemption for lubricating oil to cover oils used in producing rerefined lubricating oil. Directs the President to make annual reports to Congress on the tax, energy and other relevant effects of this Title's provisions. Establishes congressional procedures for disapproval, by either House, of Presidential suspensions of the energy excise taxes. Provides administrative provisions for the collection, determination and disbursement of the taxes, rebates, credits, and deductions established under this Title.
Bill· HRH.R. 8496 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 July 1977
Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to authorize the Federal Communications Commission to regulate the use of protective components in electronic equipment which are capable of reducing interference from radio frequency energy.
Bill· HRH.R. 8478 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 1977
Makes it a Federal crime to destroy or injure, or to attempt to destroy or injure, an interstate petroleum or gas pipeline system.
Bill· HRH.R. 8467 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 July 1977
Amends the Emergency Natural Gas Act of 1977 to extend the authority of the President to authorize emergency purchases of natural gas through August 1, 1978.
Bill· HRH.R. 8444 (95th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 1977
National Energy Act -- Establishes the following national energy goals for 1985: (1) reduction of annual growth in energy demand to less than two percent; (2) reduction of oil imports to less than six million barrels per day; (3) reduction of gasoline consumption of ten percent from 1977 levels; (4) increased energy efficiency in heating and cooling systems in homes, schools and hospitals; (5) increased coal production of at least 400 million tons over 1976 levels; and (6) use of solar energy in at least 2.5 million homes. Title I: Pricing, Regulatory, and Other Nontax Provisions -- Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to establish procedures for the submission, approval and implementation of residential energy conservation plans by State utility regulatory authorities. Prescribes energy conservation measures to be included in such plans. Establishes criteria governing programs to be carried out by public utilities as part of such energy conservation plans. Authorizes exemptions from such requirements where similar programs for residential customers will be implemented. Authorizes the Administrator to implement and enforce a Federal plan in the event of inadequate State action. Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000 for each of the first three fiscal years following the enactment of this Act to the Administrator for such utility program. Directs the Administrator to study the feasibility of energy conservation standards for existing residential buildings. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Administrator to prescribe regulations identifying approved energy conservation measures for residential buildings. Amends the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act of 1976 to authorize assistance under the Federal Energy Administration weatherization grant program to families with incomes of up to 125 percent of the poverty level. Directs the Administrator to develop regulations designed to include use of optimum cost-effective energy conservation measures in such program. Increases the appropriations authorized for such programs to $130,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 and $200,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1979 and 1980. Amends the Housing Act of 1949 to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to establish a weatherization grant program designed to achieve energy conservation objectives. Amends the Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to order the Federal National Mortgage Association to provide financial assistance for the purchase of energy conserving improvements for low and moderate income families' dwellings. Amends the National Housing Act to authorize the Secretary to insure loans for such energy conservation improvements. Amends the National Housing Act and the Housing Act of 1949 to require promotion of the use of energy saving techniques through minimum property standards for newly constructed residential housing. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to study the feasibility of requiring all residential dwelling units to meet energy efficiency standards. Amends the Energy Conservation Standards for New Buildings Act of 1976 to authorize the appropriation of an additional $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1978 and 1979 for grants to States and localities under such Act. Directs the Federal Energy Administrator, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Administrator of the Community Services Administration to conduct a joint study of the weatherization activities undertaken after the enactment of this Act. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish energy efficiency standards for specified household appliances. Stipulates that such standards shall reflect the maximum improvement in energy efficiency which is technologically and economically feasible. Authorizes additional appropriations to the Administrator for fiscal year 1977 to carry out such functions. Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to require disclosure of additional information relating to tax liability based on automobile fuel economy. Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission to prescribe rules requiring disclosure of such tax information in television advertisements. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish targets for specified industries for increased use of energy-saving recovered materials by 1987. Requires major corporations in the affected industries to file reports on progress toward achieving such targets. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to make grants to States for projects to assist schools and health care facilities under approved energy conservation plans. Establishes guidelines and criteria governing the submission of such plans by State Governors to the Administrator for approval. Establishes criteria governing the allotment of Federal funds to States for such purposes. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980 for such grants. Specifies criteria to be utilized by the Federal Power Commission in regulating prices charged for natural gas. Authorizes the Commission to prescribe special prices for first sales of high cost natural gas. Prohibits curtailment of natural gas supplies for essential agricultural purposes. Amends the Emergency Natural Gas Act of 1977 to extend the emergency authorities under such Act until April 30, 1979. Prescribes national minimum standards for State-regulated electric utilities with respect to rates, advertising, and pollution control costs. Requires that utility rate schedules reflect actual costs of service. Prohibits increases in rates by utilities without prior approval following evidentiary hearings. Requires utilities to offer alternative load management techniques to reduce maximum kilowatt demand. Directs the Federal Power Commission to consider imposing restrictions on the use of bulk or master meters in buildings. Requires disclosure of proposed and existing rate schedules by utilities to consumers. Authorizes consumer intervention in utility rate proceedings. Establishes enforcement and judicial review procedures for utility regulatory provisions of this Act. Amends the Federal Power Act to authorize the Federal Power Commission to provide pooling, wheeling, and other additional services in connection with the transmission of power. Directs the Commission to require utilities to report anticipated shortages and to prescribe rules prohibiting discrimination against cogenerators in the sale and purchase of electric energy. Prescribes procedures for consideration of proposed changes in electric utility rate schedules by the Commission. Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to authorize the Federal Energy Administrator to make grants to State utility regulatory commissions for the following purposes: (1) to increase the quantity and quality of State regulatory staff; (2) to establish programs to meet Federal consumer representation requirements; and (3) to demonstrate innovative rate structures. Authorizes the appropriation of $40,000,000 in any fiscal year for grants to improve staffing. Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000 for grants for consumer representation, and $5,000,000 for grants for rate structure innovation. Amends the Federal Power Act to establish an Office of Public Counsel in the Federal Power Commission for the purpose of adequate representation of consumer interests before the Commission. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1978 through 1981 for such Office. Authorizes the office to pay reasonable fees to certain participants in evidentiary hearings, not to exceed $2,000,000 for all such persons in any fiscal year. Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to develop rate design proposals for natural gas utilities to encourage conservation and reduce consumption. Prescribes minimum standards applicable to natural gas utilities. Details enforcement and judicial review procedures. Amends the Federal Power Act to authorize the Federal Power Commission to provide Financial assistance for small hydroelectric power projects in connection with existing dams. Authorizes the appropriation of $50,000,000 for grants and $50,000,000 for loans for each of fiscal years 1978, 1979 and 1980, for such purposes. Prohibits new electric powerplants and other major fuel-burning installations from using natural gas or petroleum as a primary energy source. Prohibits existing electric powerplants from using natural gas after January 1, 1990. Requires existing facilities to convert from natural gas to other fuel sources. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to grant exemptions from such requirements for specified reasons. Authorizes the appropriation of $11,500,000 to the Administrator for fiscal year 1978 to carry out such coal conversion authority. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to monitor the commission of powerplants and major fuel-burning installations required to convert to coal and other fuels under this Act. Authorizes $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 for such study. Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to study the socioeconomic impacts of expanded coal production resulting from this Act. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to authorize the Secretary of Transportation to provide for the establishment of a van pooling program for Federal officers and employees. Authorizes appropriations for each of five fiscal years through fiscal year 1982 for such purpose. Authorizes additional appropriations to the President to carry out Federal energy conservation programs established under the Act. Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to establish a program to demonstrate solar heating and cooling technology in Federal buildings. Establishes criteria governing the submission of proposals by the various Federal agencies for approval by the Administrator. Authorizes the appropriation of $100,000,000 through fiscal year 1980 for such program. Directs the Administrator to establish procedures governing the use of life cycle cost methods for evaluating energy requirements and alternatives for Federal buildings. Directs the Administrator to establish energy performance targets for existing buildings. Requires energy audits and retrofitting of existing Federal buildings to achieve compliance with such guidelines. Federal Photovoltaic Utilization Act -- Establishes a photovaltaic energy commercialization program for the accelerated procurement of photovoltaic solar electric systems in new and existing Federal facilities, primarily for use by the Department of Defense. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to make contracts for the acquisition of such photovoltaic systems. Directs the Administrator, together with the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration, to jointly establish a photovoltaic systems evaluation and purchase program designed to insure that such systems reflect the most advanced technology. Establishes an advisory committee to assist in the establishment and conduct of the program. Authorizes the appropriation of $39,000,000 for photovoltaic system acquisition for fiscal years 1978 through 1981. Title II: Tax Provisions -- Energy Tax Act - Allows a nonrefundable income tax credit for a portion of the expenses incurred by an individual for the installation of solar and wind energy equipment, insulation, and other energy saving components during taxable years 1977 through 1983, in a pre-existing principal residence. Imposes an additional excise tax on automobiles to penalize vehicles with poor fuel efficiency. Establishes an initial tax scale for the 1979 model year, ranging from $553 on automobiles with less than 13 miles per gallon (mpg) fuel economy to no tax on automobiles with 15 mpg or better. Increases this tax over six years to a final scale for 1985 and later model years ranging from $3,856 on cars with less than 12.5 mpg fuel economy, to no tax on cars achieving 23.5 mpg or better. Provides that transfers received under this "Gas Guzzler Tax" are to be paid into a new Treasury trust fund (the Public Debt Retirement Trust Fund) and applied toward the retirement of the public debt. Repeals the income tax deduction for State and local taxes on gasoline and other motor fuels. Postpones the scheduled rate reductions for the excise taxes on gasoline and other motor fuels from 1979 to 1985. Increases the motorboat fuel tax by two cents a gallon. Provides that such taxes will no longer be paid into the Land and Water Trust Fund after 1978, replacing the former 1980 cutoff date. Repeals the excise tax on motor bus bodies and chassis. Refunds excise taxes paid by producers, manufacturers, and importers on buses sold to intermediate dealers, but not yet sold to the ultimate purchaser, where corresponding refunds are made to the dealers and on buses sold to ultimate purchasers after April 20, 1977 and before the first date after this enactment. Exempts sales of bus parts for automobile buses from the excise tax on bus parts. Repeals the excise tax on tires, tubes, and tread rubber used on buses used predominantly in transporting students and school employees, or on scheduled, common carrier, local, or intercity routes. Refunds the excise taxes paid on gasoline, other motor fuels, and lubricating oil used in such buses. Allows individuals an income tax credit for the first $300 in expenses incurred for the acquisition of any new electric motor vehicle, designed for non-rail transportation on public streets, after April 20, 1977. Imposes, over a two year period, a crude oil equalization tax on domestically produced crude oil and liquid natural gas for an amount equal to the cost of imported oil, less tariffs and import fees. Terminates such tax September 30, 1981. Allows the President, subject to the disapproval of either House of Congress, to suspend increases in such tax for up to one year where the President determines it would have a serious effect on the U.S. economy when combined with new price increases for imported oil. Directs the Secretary of Energy to report to Congress within 90 days of this enactment on the competitive viability of small and independent refiners, the effects of this tax on them, and remedial legislation the Secretary deems appropriate. Refunds receipts on this tax attributable to domestically refined distillate fuel oil, as determined by the Secretary of Energy, to retailers where they have sold and delivered the oil into the tank of a school, hospital, church or residential structure, and reduces the purchaser's price by an equivalent amount. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to determine, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, the amount of net crude oil taxes received after administrative expenses and refunds for exempted uses. Provides a per capita refund of each adult's proportionate share of these payments for 1978, either as an income tax credit, or as a special payment, upon application, in 1979. Provides double payments to heads of households and persons filing joint tax returns. Requires early payment of such rebates to persons qualifying for Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance benefits and medicaid benefits under the Social Security Act and benefits under the Railroad Retirement Acts of 1935, 1937, or 1974. Requires early payment of such rebates to recipients of aid to families with dependent children, by their States, with Federal reimbursement. Provides for the same taxpayer disbursement to Puerto Rico residents and residents of U.S. possessions under plans drafted by their governors and approved by the Secretary of the Treasury. Provides for the payment of crude oil tax payments into a Crude Oil Equalization Taxes Trust Fund pending disbursement to taxpayers, with any excess remaining after 1979 to be paid into the general fund of the Treasury. Establishes an excise tax on the business use of oil and gas. Provides different tax rates for uses of oil (including all petroleum and petroleum products except natural gas and gasoline) according to three "tiers" of usage, the lowest tier tax rate being provided utilities and other energy producers, with the highest rate applied against uses in internal combustion engines. Exempts a large number of uses from the tax (generally applying to residential, transportation, petrochemical, retail and other non-manufacturing activities, as well as uses where substitute fuels are not feasible or are precluded by Federal or State pollution regulations). Allows each taxpayer an exempt amount of 50,000 barrels of oil (or its BTU equivalent) for application in taxable business uses. Provides for the reclassification of uses by the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the appropriate Federal agencies, where a lower tax classification is consistent with the policy to encourage conversion from, or conservation of, oil and gas, or where a specific facility is otherwise granted an exemption under this Act on its use of petroleum fuels. Applies different tax rates for the three tiers of natural gas usages, the rates for non-utility/energy producer uses gradually filling the "price gap" in the user's geographic area between natural gas and more expensive petroleum. Defines the tiers of natural gas uses and exempt uses of natural gas in the same manner as for business uses of oil, lumping natural gas and oil together for purposes of computing the user's exempt amount. Allows the President to suspend the tax for up to one year, subject to the disapproval of either House of Congress. Allows taxpayers to elect a nonrefundable tax credit against the tax on business use of oil and gas for new depreciable property which uses alternative fuels, or is used for transporting or producing alternative fuels, or is supplementary pollution control property not otherwise required by law. Allows a carryover of the allowable credit to the extent that it exceeds the taxpayer's current liability for such tax. Requires that the election for such credit be made before or on the taxpayer's filing deadline for the first taxable year ending after 1978, or 1982 in the case of a regulated public utility. Prescribes special administrative provisions and definitions for property eligible for this credit. Allows a taxpayer to elect a regular investment tax credit for this property to the extent that it qualifies for the same, and to the extent that the taxpayer's current liability for the business use tax (minus carryovers) is exceeded by the allowable business use tax credit. Provides an additional business investment tax credit of ten percent for the period April 20, 1977 through 1982 for property which is not qualified for the regular investment credit but which is alternative energy equipment, recycling equipment, or is otherwise qualified under the definitions of this Act, or under regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, to cover energy efficient property. Denies the investment tax credit for air conditioning and heating units, and boilers and other combustors fueled by petroleum or petroleum products (including natural gas) where coal is not prohibited by Federal or State pollution regulations. Limits the depreciation deduction of petroleum, petroleum product, or natural gas fueled boilers placed in service after June 30, 1977, to the straight line method. Allows the straight line depreciation deduction for boilers in use before April 21, 1977, to be taken against a line "drawn" to any early retirement dates established by the taxpayer for the boilers to the satisfaction of the Secretary of the Treasury. Makes the Tax Reduction and Simplification Act's temporary reduction in the minimum tax preference for intangible drilling costs a permanent reduction. Allows the deduction of intangible drilling expenses for geothermal wells to the same extent and manner as drilling expenses for gas and oil wells. Allows a ten percent depletion dedication for geothermal deposits, provided that it does not exceed the property's adjusted basis. Exempts oil used for producing rerefined lubricating oil from the excise tax on lubricating oil. Directs the President to make annual reports to Congress on the tax, energy and other relevant effects of this title's provisions. Establishes congressional procedures for disapproval, by either House, of Presidential suspensions of the energy excise taxes. Provides administrative provisions for the collection, determination and disbursement of the taxes, rebates, credits, and deductions established under this title.
Bill· HRH.R. 8446 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 1977
Radioactive Material Protection Act - Makes it a Federal crime, punishable by life imprisonment or death, to sabotage nuclear facilities, hijack or sabotage vehicles transporting nuclear materials, or coerce others by threatening exposure to atomic radiation.
Bill· SS. 1895 (95th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1977
Amends the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1968 to authorize the appropriation of such sums as are necessary to carry out such Act for fiscal year 1979.
Bill· HRH.R. 8427 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1977
Amends the Natural Gas Act to prohibit curtailment of supplies to specified high priority users.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 693 (95th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1977
Orders the printing of the report accompanying H.R. 6831 (National Energy Act) for the use of the Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce of the House of Representatives.
Bill· HRH.R. 8398 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 July 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow individuals an income tax credit for the electrical fuel surcharges imposed by public utilities.
Bill· SS. 1868 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 15 July 1977
National Crude Oil Supply and Transportation Act - Expresses the intent of Congress that the continuation of a transportation system to deliver Alaskan crude oil to Northern Tier or inland States be accomplished through expedited administrative procedures. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish a time schedule for the completion of required environmental impact statements in order to select a crude oil transportation system by February 1, 1978. Establishes criteria to be considered by the Secretary in selecting a transportation route. Directs the Secretary and other appropriate Federal officials to take all actions necessary to provide rights of way, permits, leases, and other authorizations necessary for the construction, operation, and maintenance of the transportation system approved under this Act. Declares that the actions of Federal officers and agencies under this Act shall not be subject to judicial review by the courts. Allows for claims that: (1) actions under this Act will deny Constitutional rights; and (2) actions taken are beyond the scope of authority conferred by this Act, provided that such claims are filed within 60 days following the date of the challenged action. Vests exclusive jurisdiction to hear such claims in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, acting as a special court. Stipulates that any judicial proceedings should be completed at the earliest possible date. Declares that nothing in this Act shall authorize or imply an exemption from provisions of the antitrust laws.
Bill· HRH.R. 8353 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 15 July 1977
Amends the Federal Coal Leasing Amendments Act of 1975 to extend for an additional year the deadline for the Office of Technology Assessment study of Federal coal leasing to be undertaken pursuant to such Act.
Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 35 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1977
Calls for an immediate investigation of the New York power outage of July 13, 1977, by the Federal Power Commission.
Bill· HRH.R. 8334 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1977
Stipulates that sales of natural gas by small, independent producers shall be exempt from regulation by the Federal Power Commission. Requires that prices of such sales be at a level which adequately compensates the seller for current costs, including an adequate return on investment. Defines the term "small producer" to include independent producers (1) not affiliated with natural gas pipeline companies or larger producers; (2) whose total sales do not exceed 10 million Mcf per year, and (3) whose average production per well does not exceed 100 Mcf per day on an annual basis.
Bill· HRH.R. 8319 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1977
Grants civil service retirement benefits comparable to those provided Federal firefighters and law enforcement officers to persons employed by the Energy Research and Development Administration as atomic energy security inspectors or ERDA couriers. Requires the retirement of such employees when they have attained the age of 55 years and have completed 20 years of service.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 545 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1977
Declares that the Federal Power Commission and other Federal agencies with authority over the allocation of natural gas shall give the highest priority to specified agricultural uses, including irrigation, grain drying, and the production of fertilizer and other agricultural chemicals.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 546 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 14 July 1977
Declares that the Federal Power Commission and other Federal agencies with authority over the allocation of natural gas shall give the highest priority to specified agricultural uses, including irrigation, grain drying, and the production of fertilizer and other agricultural chemicals.
Bill· HRH.R. 8264 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1977
Energy Stamp Assistance Act - Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to establish an energy stamp program to assist households with gross annual incomes below $12,500 in meeting monthly fuel costs. Authorizes assistance to renters to offset rent attributable to fuel costs. Stipulates that participating States shall assume responsibility for certification of eligible households and issuance of coupons. Specifies monthly allotments authorized by this Act. Requires that priority be given households in regions which have been declared emergency or disaster areas as a result of fuel supply, allocation, and costs problems. Stipulates that the provisions of this Act shall be retroactively effective to January 1, 1977. Stipulates that the benefits received pursuant to this program shall not be considered as income for internal revenue purposes or for determination of eligibility for other federally-related benefits programs.
Bill· SS. 1827 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 July 1977
Energy Conservation and Recovered Materials Act - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to direct the Federal Energy Administrator to establish targets for increased utilization of energy-saving recovered materials for the following industries: metal and metal products, paper and allied products, textile mill products, and rubber. Specifies that such targets be set at levels representing the maximum feasible increase in energy-saving recovered materials which each industry can achieve progressively by January 1, 1987. Directs the Administer to consult with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency in the establishment of such targets. Requires major corporations in each affected industry to file reports with the Administrator on progress made in achieving targets established under this Act.
Bill· SS. 1811 (95th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1977
ERDA Authorization Act of 1978 -- Civilian Nuclear Energy Applications - Title I: For Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration, and Related Activities -- Authorizes appropriations to the Energy Research and Development Administration for fiscal year 1978 for magnetic fusion, fuel cycle research, liquid metal fast breeder reactor, nuclear research, light water reactor safety, high energy physics and other energy sciences, nuclear safety uranium enrichment, and related programs. Lists amounts authorized for plant and capital equipment on a project-by-project basis. Amends prior authorization acts to increase the amount authorized for specific projects. Rescinds the authorization for the molten salt breeder reactor project. Authorizes the Administration to undertake additional studies of international spent fuel storage capacity and of nuclear safeguards with respect to the Barnwell Nuclear Fuels plant in South Carolina and the Western New York Nuclear Service Center. Title II: Basis for Government Charge for Uranium Enrichment Services -- Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to stipulate that prices charged in Government contracts for the production or enrichment of special nuclear material shall not discourage development of domestic supply sources independent of the Energy Research and Development Administration. Prohibits the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration from offering such services for nuclear materials of foreign origin to the extent necessary to assure the maintenance of a viable domestic uranium industry. Title III: General Provisions -- Imposes restrictions and limitations upon the use of funds appropriated pursuant to this Act. Requires Congressional review of proposed modifications in programs authorized by this Act. Authorizes the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to perform construction design services for authorized construction projects. Title IV: Assistance Payments to the Los Alamos School Board and the County of Los Alamos -- Amends the Atomic Energy Community Act of 1955 to authorize the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to continue assistance payments to specified local governmental units in Los Alamos, New Mexico, beyond the deadline dates specified in such Act. Title V: Lawrence Livermore Laboratory Employee Grievance Procedure -- Prohibits the use of funds appropriated pursuant to this Act for contract or research services or other supplies by the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory unless each contract provides for the establishment of an impartial employee grievance procedure.
Bill· SS. 1814 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1977
Amends the Natural Gas Act to prohibit curtailment of supplies to specified high priority users.
Bill· SS. 1790 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1977
Amends the Federal Power Act to establish revised procedures for the approval of proposed changes in utility rate schedules or charges by the Federal Power Commission. Directs the Commission to conduct preliminary hearings prior to issuance of temporary orders on the lawfulness of such proposed schedules. Stipulates that increased rates made immediately effective which are later found to be unjustified shall be refunded to customers. Prohibits public utilities from filing proposed schedules for rate increases while similar proposals are pending before the Commission.
Bill· HRH.R. 8122 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 30 June 1977
Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to conduct an investigation and study of the use of grain, or grain products and wood and other forest products in the development and use of fuels.