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Bill· SS. 1579 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1977
Standby Gasoline Rationing Act - Directs the President to prescribe a standby motor vehicle gasoline and diesel fuel rationing plan to meet target consumption levels for the years 1978 through 1985. Details factors to be considered in the formulation of such plan. Authorizes the President to submit such plan to Congress for action if target consumption levels are exceeded by more than one full percentage point. Stipulates that such plan shall become effective in accordance with procedures prescribed under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act. Prohibits such rationing plan from containing tax or pricing provisions.
Bill· SS. 1567 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1977
Energy Conservation and School Transportation Safety Act - Amends the Equal Educational Opportunity Act of 1974 to limit the scope of voluntary desegregation programs that an educational agency may choose if direct and indirect petroleum imports equal or exceed 40 percent of the United States' total annual demand in the calendar year preceding the new school year.
Bill· HRH.R. 7313 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1977
Automotive Transport Research and Development Act - Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to establish a program to develop advanced automobile propulsion systems within five years of the date of enactment of this Act. Directs the Administrator to make grants for research projects designed to assist the furtherance of such program. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to evaluate and report the extent to which the automobile industry utilizes advanced automotive technology. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to test vehicles developed pursuant to the program established by this Act, in order to determine compliance with applicable standards under the Clean Air Act and the Noise Control Act of 1972. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to test such vehicles in order to determine compliance with applicable standards under the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966, the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act, and the Automobile Information Disclosure Act. Establishes contracting procedures consistent with applicable provisions of the Federal Nonnuclear Energy Research and Development Act of 1974 and the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to submit annual reports to Congress of activities pursuant to this Act, including results of economic surveys designed to evaluate the extent to which Federal guarantees of financial obligations may aid in developing commercial markets for advanced automobile technology. Amends the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 to require that efforts of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration be directed towards the development of advanced automobile propulsion systems. Authorizes the appropriation of $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 and $75,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 to carry out the purposes of this Act. Stipulates that no more than 60 percent of such appropriations shall be directly expended in Federal laboratories.
Bill· HRH.R. 7258 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 May 1977
Lifeline and Electric Rate Reform Act - Title I: General Provisions - Declares it the purpose of this Act to reform inequities in the structure of electric utility rates. Title II: Definitions - Defines the terms used in this Act. Defines the scope of coverage under this Act. Stipulates that direct Federal regulation shall not apply where regulation is specifically reserved and effectively enforced by the States in accordance with applicable national minimum standards. Title III: Electric Energy Office - Creates an Electric Energy Office in the Federal Power Commission to establish and enforce National Minimum Standards for Ratemaking to be binding upon all electric utility regulatory agencies. Requires that all electric utilities and local distributors furnish monthly reports to the office disclosing information on the amount of electric energy supplied, the amount and rate of charges for each consumer class, and the amount and costs of fuel utilized by each utility. Imposes criminal and civil penalties for failure to make full disclosure of such information. Title IV: Rate Structures - Directs the Federal Power Commission, in the exercise of its regulatory functions, to accord highest priority to residential and small business users. Prohibits regulatory authorities from permitting the sale of electric energy to low priority users at rates less than those charged to high-priority consumers. Imposes criminal penalties for the furnishing of electric-energy at rates or charges which have not been specifically approved by the appropriate regulatory agency after public hearings. Directs the Federal Power Commission to encourage conservation of electric energy by requiring that rates be graduated progressively upward for consumption of electric energy in amounts above subsistence quantities. Title V: Lifeline Electric Rates - Requires that electric utility rate charges for subsistence quantities of electric energy to residential consumers not exceed the lowest rate charged to any other electric consumer. Requires the use of graduated rate structures for consumption of electric energy in amounts above subsistence quantities. Title VI: Electric Rates for Nonresidential Customers - Requires that electric utility rate changes for nonresidential customers be the lowest rate charged to any other electric consumer in the same class. Requires progressively higher rates for consumption in excess of the basic requirements of such nonresidential customers. Title VII: Effective Dates - Stipulates that the provisions of this Act shall become effective one year from the date of its passage, unless otherwise indicated.
Bill· HRH.R. 7236 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1977
Energy Conservation Tax Incentives Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow limited, nonrefundable income tax credits for individuals who: (1) install qualified insulation in their residences; (2) install qualified solar heating and cooling equipment in dwelling units used by them, or leased to others as residences; (3) replace the heating system in any dwelling with a reversible, compressible refrigerant system (i.e., a heat pump system); or (4) purchase personal or family electric highway vehicles between 1976 and 1982.
Bill· SS. 1516 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose an excise severance tax on coal and oil shale extracted within the United States, with a credit against the tax for similar taxes paid to local and State governments. Amends the Tariff Act to impose a countervailing duty on imported coal and oil shale.
Bill· HRH.R. 7196 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1977
New Natural Gas Deregulation Amendments - Amends the Natural Gas Act to terminate Federal Power Commission authority to directly regulate sales prices of new natural gas except for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Stipulates that prices for onshore sales of new natural gas shall not exceed the lesser of: (1) the ceiling price for sales of new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands; or (2) a ceiling rate established by any State for intrastate sale and consumption. 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. Directs the Federal Power Commission to conduct studies and make an annual independent estimate of proved and potential natural gas reserves. Requires that the Commission keep current information available relating to the natural gas industry. Establishes procedures for the establishment of ceiling prices for new natural gas produced from offshore Federal lands. Authorizes the Commission to grant exemptions to price ceilings within certain 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. Stipulates that the provisions of the Natural Gas Act shall extend to synthetic natural gas. Directs the Commission to prohibit the use of natural gas as boiler fuel where adequate alternatives are available. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibition where necessary to comply with pollution control or environmental protection and safety standards. Directs the Commission to impose a user charge on sales of natural gas for use as boiler fuel. Establishes procedures for the establishment and periodic revision of national ceiling prices for the sale of old natural gas in interstate commerce.
Bill· SS. 1502 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 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. 7138 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow to a taxpayer holding an economic interest in a geothermal energy property a tax deduction amounting to 22 percent of the gross income from such property excluding from such gross income an amount equal to any rents or royalties paid or incurred by the taxpayer in respect to such property. Requires the Secretary of the Treasury to issue regulations granting the option to deduct as expenses intangible drilling and development costs in the case of wells drilled for geothermal steam and associated geothermal resources.
Bill· SS. 1493 (95th)reported
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1977
Inland Energy Development Impact Assistance Act - Amends the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 to establish an inland energy development impact program in the Department of Commerce. Includes among the assistance provided under such program to States, local governments, and Indian tribes which are affected as a result of energy development activities: (1) technical assistance; (2) grants for comprehensive growth management and monitoring plans; (3) loans and loan guarantees for required new public facilities and services; and (4) grants for impact crises. Creates an Inland Energy Impact Fund within the Department of the Treasury.
Bill· SS. 1496 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1977
Makes it a Federal crime to willfully injure or destroy, or to attempt to injure or destroy, the trans-Alaska pipeline system.
Bill· SS. 1492 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1977
Coal Transportation Act - Amends the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920 to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to grant rights-of-way on Federal lands for coal pipelines. Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to make coal pipelines operating in interstate commerce subject to regulation under such Act. Stipulates that charges for the transportation of coal by pipeline based on long-term commitments are presumptively unlawful unless finally approved by the Commission for use by common carriers by railroad. Prohibits coal pipelines from transporting coal in interstate commerce where such pipeline has an interest in such coal. Requires the construction and maintenance of feeder or distribution lines by coal pipeline carriers. Prohibits abandonment of existing pipelines without certification by the Interstate Commerce Commission. Establishes procedures governing issuance of such certificates. Imposes civil penalties for illegal abandonment of existing pipelines. Establishes procedures governing the granting of easements to coal pipeline carriers by the Commission in accordance with prescribed criteria. Requires that Commission approval be obtained prior to transfers, mergers, and acquisitions involving coal pipeline carriers. Lists criteria to be considered by the Commission in evaluating such proposed transactions. Prohibits the Commission from issuing certificates of public convenience and necessity to coal pipeline carriers without receiving the advice of the Attorney General and the Federal Trade Commission that such action would not contravene antitrust laws. Establishes procedures for enforcement of the requirements of this Act against coal pipeline carriers by the Attorney General upon the report of the Interstate Commerce Commission. Imposes criminal and civil penalties for such violations. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to prescribe regulations to apply the provisions of the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1968 to coal pipelines
Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 23 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1977
Requests the President to propose a World Conference on Energy and Critical Material Resources to develop a program of international cooperation in the area of energy and critical resource research and development, including the recommendation of methods to safeguard against the proliferation of nuclear weapons capabilities.
Bill· HRH.R. 7094 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1977
Federal Power Commission Reform Act - Amends the Federal Power Act to direct the Federal Power Commission to require public utilities to report anticipated shortages of power and to file plans to provide for curtailment by retail consumers on a nondiscriminatory basis. Requires that rate increases for the interstate sale of electricity not become effective until public hearings on such increases have been completed by the Commission. Authorizes the Commission to issue orders prohibiting unfair methods of competition by public utilities. Stipulates that rates charged by public utilities shall be approved by the Commission only if based on known and measurable costs. Directs the Commission to audit the fuel acquisition practices of public utilities with a view to eliminating discriminatory or anticompetitive practices.
Bill· HRH.R. 7107 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1977
Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to direct the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to include exposure of persons to medical radiation from sources not required to be licensed under the Act in determining the maximum allowable exposure to radiation.
Bill· HRH.R. 7013 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 9 May 1977
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow to an individual a tax credit of 25 percent of the qualified solar energy equipment expenditures paid or incurred by the taxpayer during the taxable year to the extent that such expenditures do not exceed $8,000. Permits the Administrator of Energy Research and Development to make a loan to a qualified applicant for the installation of solar energy equipment in new residential buildings. Specifies formulas for determining the maximum amount and the interest rate of such a loan, and sets a term at not more than 15 years. Establishes in the Treasury of the United States a solar energy equipment installation loan fund to pay for expenses incurred in carrying out the obligations of the Administrator under the loan program. States that amounts received in repayment of such loans shall be deposited in the installation fund.
Law· SS. 1468 (95th)open
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1977
Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Extension Act - Amends the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974 to extend the authority of the Federal Energy Administrator to issue coal conversion and allocation orders under such Act until December 31, 1977.
Bill· SS. 1469 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 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 10 percent from 1977 levels; (4) insulation of 90 percent of all homes and all new buildings; (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 alternative programs will be implemented. Authorizes the Administrator to implement and enforce a Federal plan in the event of inadequate State action. Amends the National Housing Act to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to prescribe an actuarially sound premium rate for loans for energy conserving improvements. Amends the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation Act and the Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act to include loans or credits for energy conservation purposes within the scope of such programs. Authorizes additional appropriations for the weatherization assistance program administered by the Federal Energy Administrator under the Energy Conservation and Production Act. Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to authorize appropriations for new building performance standard grants by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development for fiscal years 1978 and 1979. Directs 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 or tax benefits based on automobile fuel economy. Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission to prescribe rules requiring disclosure of such tax information in television advertisements. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to make grants to States for projects to assist schools and hospitals 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 the appropriation for $300,000,000 for each of fiscal year 1978, 1979, and 1980 for such grants. Directs the President to establish price ceilings for sales of natural gas in accordance with prescribed criteria. Authorizes the President to establish special pricing provisions where deemed necessary to provide incentives for the production of natural gas or synthetic gas. Amends the Natural Gas Act to extend Federal Power Commission jurisdiction to cover specified gas facilities and transactions. Amends the Emergency Natural Gas Act of 1977 to extend the emergency authorities under such Act until April 30, 1979. Directs State utility regulatory authorities to require that electric utilities meet specified national electric rate design policies which require systems to reduce maximum kilowatt demand. Prohibits rate schedules which allow for decreased rates for increased consumption of electric energy. Prohibits electric utility services to newly-constructed buildings which utilize bulk or master meters. 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 Federal Energy Administrator to prescribe rules prohibiting discrimination against cogenerators in the sale and purchase of electric energy. Specifies rate design policies for natural gas utilities to encourage conservation and reduce consumption. Amends the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974 to prohibit new electric powerplants from using natural gas or petroleum as an energy source. Authorizes exemptions from such requirements for peakload electric powerplants or upon a showing that reliable alternatives are unavailable. Prohibits existing electric powerplants from converting from petroleum to natural gas or from utilizing natural gas as an energy source after January 1, 1990. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibitions for the use of synthetic fuels or innovative technology. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to order powerplants to convert from natural gas or petroleum to coal or other fuels where feasible. Requires permits for existing electric powerplants seeking to increase use of petroleum, based either on necessity of achieving clean air standards or inability to use coal or fuels other than natural gas or petroleum. Prohibits new major fuel-burning installation boilers from using natural gas or petroleum as an energy source. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to prohibit use of petroleum or natural gas by nonboilers and existing fuel-burning installations, in accordance with specified criteria. Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to prevent the enforcement of coal conversion orders issued by the Federal Energy Administrator if the affected source is unable to comply with air pollution standards. Authorizes the President to allocate coal supplies to alleviate severe energy shortages. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to prohibit powerplants and major fuel-burning installations from using natural gas or petroleum during such energy shortages as declared by the President. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to authorize the Federal Energy Administrator to provide for the establishment of a van pooling program for Federal officers and employees. Authorizes appropriations for each of eight fiscal years through fiscal year 1985 for such purpose. 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.
Bill· SS. 1472 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1977
Exempts, for the purposes of this Act, the Governments of American Samoa, Guam, and the Virgin Islands from the requirement that they enact the same tax laws as are enacted under the Internal Revenue Code. Allows a non-refundable income tax credit for a portion of the expenses incurred by an individual for the installation of solar energy equipment, insulation, and other energy saving components during taxable years 1977 through 1984 in a pre-existing principal residence. Limits the credits taken by an individual for the same residence by specific amounts for different types of expenditures during different years. Imposes an additional excise tax on automobiles to penalize vehicles with poorer fuel efficiency. Establishes an initial tax scale for the 1978 model year, ranging from $449 on automobiles with less than 13 miles per gallon (mpg) fuel economy to no tax on automobiles with 18 mpg or better. Increases this tax over seven years to a final scale for 1985 and later model years ranging from $2,488 on cars with less than 12.5 mpg fuel economy, to no tax on cars achieving 27.5 mpg or better. Grants a rebate, or excise tax credit to automobile manufacturers for the sale of cars with good fuel efficiency. Establishes a graduated scale of credits initially ranging from $47 for a car with a fuel economy of 19 mpg, to $473 for a car with a fuel economy greater than 39 mpg. Increases this scale over eight years to range from $62 for cars with a rating above 28.5 mpg, to $500 for ratings greater than 39.5 mpg. Limits the credit to sales of domestically manufactured cars, and to foreign made cars pursuant to executive agreements designed to protect domestic manufacturers from adverse effects arising from the fuel efficiency excise taxes and rebates. Imposes a standby gasoline tax equal to five cents per gallon for each full percentage point that domestic consumption exceeds the national target level for the preceeding year. Establishes target levels which increase to a 1980 high of 7.45 million barrels average daily consumption, and then decrease to 6.5 million barrels daily after 1986. Limits the annual tax increase to five cents per gallon, and the cumulative increase to 50 cents. Assesses the tax on gasoline sold by producers and importers, and on gasoline held for sale by retailers. Allows refunds of this tax, when the applicable tax decreases, on gasoline sold to retailers but not held at the place intended for retail sale, if the decrease is passed on to the retailer through a partial refund. Allows a refundable income tax credit to an individual equal to the product of the individual's personal exemptions and the applicable per capita payment of standby gasoline tax receipts for the taxable year. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Federal Energy Administration, to determine the per capita payment upon a base amount, derived by subtracting the anticipated business deductions for the standby gasoline tax from total standby revenues, after accounting for administrative costs. Limits refunds of this credit to individuals qualifying for the earned income credit, or who have dependent children living with them, have earned income, and, if married, have filed joint returns. Increases the excise taxes on special fuels for motorboats and noncommercial aircraft. 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 on or before this Act's enactment. Allows investment tax credits for the installation of electric power boosters, coal and other non-petroleum power facilities, coal pollution control devices, solar equipment and other energy conservation devices prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury in consultation with the Federal Energy Administration. Limits the credit to expenses attributable to construction between April 20, 1977 and January 1, 1983, on pre- existing business property. Imposes, over a two year period, a crude oil equalization tax on domestically produced crude oil, in an amount equal to the higher cost of imported oil, less tariffs and import fees. Refunds the amount of this tax attributable to domestically refined distillate fuel oil, as determined by the Federal Energy Administrator, to retailers where the retailer has sold and delivered the oil into the tank of a residential structure, and reduced the price to the purchaser by an equivalent amount. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to determine the per capita payment of crude oil equalization taxes, after subtracting business deductions for the tax and retailer refunds from anticipated revenues, and to provide an equivalent income tax credit in the same manner as for rebates of the standby gasoline tax. Provides for suspension of the crude oil tax, through executive order, where increases in the price of imported oil outstrip the rate of inflation and pose serious economic harm for domestic products. Grants equivalent rebates from the gasoline standby and crude petroleum use taxes to persons without taxable income by requiring appropriate payments by the States, with Federal reimbursement. 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. Prohibits any computation of such rebates in determining any individual's or family's eligibility for any Federal, State or local aid or assistance, or treatment as an increase in income or a reduction in Federal taxes under State law. Directs all employers to adjust employee withholding taxes to reflect the rebates allowable from the crude oil equalization and gasoline standby taxes. Imposes an oil consumption tax on taxable electric utilities equal to 25 cents per million BTU's used annually after 1982. Imposes an oil consumption tax on other trades or businesses in accordance with a graduated scale of taxable oil use, ranging from 60 percent of 600 billion BTU's to 100 percent of 1,500 billion BTU's. Increases the tax on the taxable use of oil, over a seven year period, from 15 to 50 cents per million BTU's. Imposes a tax on natural gas use by utilities after 1982, and other businesses after 1978, for an amount equal, after intermediate adjustments during interim periods, to the excess cost of certain distillate petroleum products over natural gas per BTU. Imposes this tax against the same amount of taxable energy use as is liable under the oil consumption tax for non-utilities. Exempts petroleum use otherwise taxable under the retailer or manufacturers excise taxes, and specified uses of petroleum and natural gas from both of the consumption taxes. Allows non-utilities a credit against such taxes for the expenses incurred in the installation, after 1977, of power sources using coal, and for coal preparation, transportation and pollution control devices and facilities. Grants a credit against the consumption taxes to electric utilities for expenses incurred after April 20, 1977 in converting oil or natural gas powered generating equipment to equipment utilizing other fuels. Specifies the minimum tax treatment of intangible drilling expenses relating to oil, gas, and geothermal wells.
Bill· HRH.R. 6942 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1977
Amends the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 to increase the maximum amount of acreage which may be leased to a single person, association, or corporation in a single state from 20,480 acres to 51,200 acres. Requires that the Secretary of the Interior insure that lessees under such Act who meet specified qualifications be allowed to participate in the planning and granting of rights-of-way for electric power transmission lines in the general area of the lease. Directs the Secretary to insure that such lessees be granted maximum access to existing rights-of-way and existing transmission lines. Authorizes the use of phased environmental assessments in accordance with similarly phased geothermal leasehold rights, to be granted upon the request of a majority of the potential bidders in accordance with procedures to be prescribed by the Secretary.
Bill· SS. 1457 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1977
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.
Bill· SS. 1448 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1977
Natural Gas Industry Competition Act - Title I: Industry Competition - Makes it unlawful, five years after the date of enactment of this Act, for major producers, transporters, and marketers of natural gas to control any interest in other natural gas assets. Prohibits major producers, marketers, on transporters to own more than 50 percent of the equity in any such prohibited assets within three years of the date of enactment of this Act. Prohibits joint ventures and other agreements or arrangements designed to result in acquisition or retention of prohibited assets. Prohibits major producers, marketers, or transporters from making additional investments in prohibited assets. Requires filing of information and reports with the Attorney General by persons affected by this Act. Imposes criminal and civil penalties for violations of the provisions of this Act. Title II: National Energy Industry Competition Court - Creates a National Energy Industry Competition Court to have exclusive jurisdiction over all actions relating to this Act. Establishes procedures governing the operation of such court. Stipulates that decisions of such court shall be directly appealable to the United States Supreme Court.
Bill· HRH.R. 6920 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1977
Automotive Transport Research and Development Act - Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to establish a program to develop advanced automobile propulsion systems within five years of the date of enactment of this Act. Directs the Administrator to make grants for research projects designed to assist the furtherance of such program. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to evaluate and report the extent to which the automobile industry utilizes advanced automotive technology. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to test vehicles developed pursuant to the program established by this Act, in order to determine compliance with applicable standards under the Clean Air Act and the Noise Control Act of 1972. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to test such vehicles in order to determine compliance with applicable standards under the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966, the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act, and the Automobile Information Disclosure Act. Establishes contracting procedures consistent with applicable provisions of the Federal Nonnuclear Energy Research and Development Act of 1974 and the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to submit annual reports to Congress of activities pursuant to this Act, including results of economic surveys designed to evaluate the extent to which Federal guarantees of financial obligations may aid in developing commercial markets for advanced automobile technology. Amends the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 to require that efforts of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration be directed towards the development of advanced automobile propulsion systems. Authorizes the appropriation of $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 and $75,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 to carry out the purposes of this Act. Stipulates that no more than 60 percent of such appropriations shall be directly expended in Federal laboratories.
Bill· HRH.R. 6889 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1977
Plutonium Licensing Control Act - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to prohibit the issuance of commercial licenses for (1) operation of nuclear power reactors utilizing recovered plutonium as a fuel source or (2) nuclear reactor fuel processing designed to recover plutonium. Stipulates that such prohibition shall not apply to activities necessary for United States military defense.
Bill· SS. 1445 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1977
Petroleum Divestiture Act - Prohibits, five years after the enactment of this Act, petroleum transporters (pipeline), and major producers, refiners, and marketers of petroleum and petroleum products from owning or controlling any interest in an asset used in a phase of the petroleum industry other than the one in which the transporter, producer, refiner, or marketer is engaged. 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. Places primary oversight jurisdiction over divestitures in the Commission and directs the Securities and Exchange Commission to advise the Commission as to the effect of divestiture plans on holders of debt and equity interests in affected corporations. 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. 6844 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1977
Liquefied Natural Gas Facility Safety Act - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to prescribe minimum standards for the location, design, and construction of new liquefied natural gas facilities. Directs the Secretary to prescribe minimum standards for the operation of existing facilities. Specifies factors to be considered by the Secretary in the establishment of such standards. Prohibits the construction or operation of liquefied natural gas facilities without a permit issued by the Secretary. Stipulates that such permits shall be issued only to facilities in compliance with applicable minimum standards. Imposes civil and criminal penalties for violation of the prohibitions contained in this Act. Directs the President to make a ten-year projection of the number of liquefied natural gas facilities needed to accommodate future imports to be utilized by the Secretary in the issuance of permits under this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 to carry out this Act. Authorizes an additional $4,000,000 for a program of investigation and study of safety measures to reduce risks associated with liquefied natural gas facilities.
Bill· HRH.R. 6831 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 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 10 percent from 1977 levels; (4) insulation of 90 percent of all homes and all new buildings; (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 alternative programs will be implemented. Authorizes the Administrator to implement and enforce a Federal plan in the event of inadequate State action. Amends the National Housing Act to direct the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to prescribe an actuarially sound premium rate for loans for energy conserving improvements. Amends the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation Act and the Federal National Mortgage Association Charter Act to include loans or credits for energy conservation purposes within the scope of such programs. Authorizes additional appropriations for the weatherization assistance program administered by the Federal Energy Administrator under the Energy Conservation and Production Act. Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to authorize appropriations for new building performance standard grants by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development for fiscal years 1978 and 1979. Directs 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 or tax benefits based on automobile fuel economy. Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission to prescribe rules requiring disclosure of such tax information in television advertisements. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to make grants to States for projects to assist schools and hospitals 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 the appropriation for $300,000,000 for each of fiscal year 1978, 1979, and 1980 for such grants. Directs the President to establish price ceilings for sales of natural gas in accordance with prescribed criteria. Authorizes the President to establish special pricing provisions where deemed necessary to provide incentives for the production of natural gas or synthetic gas. Amends the Natural Gas Act to extend Federal Power Commission jurisdiction to cover specified gas facilities and transactions. Amends the Emergency Natural Gas Act of 1977 to extend the emergency authorities under such Act until April 30, 1979. Directs State utility regulatory authorities to require that electric utilities meet specified national electric rate design policies which require systems to reduce maximum kilowatt demand. Prohibits rate schedules which allow for decreased rates for increased consumption of electric energy. Prohibits electric utility services to newly-constructed buildings which utilize bulk or master meters. 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 Federal Energy Administrator to prescribe rules prohibiting discrimination against cogenerators in the sale and purchase of electric energy. Specifies rate design policies for natural gas utilities to encourage conservation and reduce consumption. Amends the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974 to prohibit new electric powerplants from using natural gas or petroleum as an energy source. Authorizes exemptions from such requirements for peakload electric powerplants or upon a showing that reliable alternatives are unavailable. Prohibits existing electric powerplants from converting from petroleum to natural gas or from utilizing natural gas as an energy source after January 1, 1990. Authorizes exemptions from such prohibitions for the use of synthetic fuels or innovative technology. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to order powerplants to convert from natural gas or petroleum to coal or other fuels where feasible. Requires permits for existing electric powerplants seeking to increase use of petroleum, based either on necessity or achieving clean air standards or inability to use coal or fuels other than natural gas or petroleum. Prohibits new major fuel-burning installation boilers from using natural gas or petroleum as an energy source. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to prohibit use of petroleum or natural gas by nonboilers and existing fuel-burning installations, in accordance with specified criteria. Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to prevent the enforcement of coal conversion orders issued by the Federal Energy Administrator if the affected source is unable to comply with air pollution standards. Authorizes the President to allocate coal supplies to alleviate severe energy shortages. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to prohibit powerplants and major fuel-burning installations from using natural gas or petroleum during such energy shortages as declared by the President. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to authorize the Federal Energy Administrator to provide for the establishment of a van pooling program for Federal officers and employees. Authorizes appropriations for each of eight fiscal years through fiscal year 1985 for such purpose. 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. Title II: Tax Provisions - Exempts, for the purposes of this Act, the Governments of American Samoa, Guam, and the Virgin Islands from the requirement that they enact the same tax laws as are enacted under the Internal Revenue Code. Allows a non-refundable income tax credit for a portion of the expenses incurred by an individual for the installation of solar energy equipment, insulation, and other energy saving components during taxable years 1977 through 1984 in a pre-existing principal residence. Limits the credits taken by an individual for the same residence by specific amounts for different types of expenditures during different years. Imposes an additional excise tax on automobiles to penalize vehicles with poorer fuel efficiency. Establishes an initial tax scale for the 1978 model year, ranging from $449 on automobiles with less than 13 miles per gallon (mpg) fuel economy to no tax on automobiles with 18 mpg or better. Increases this tax over seven years to a final scale for 1985 and later model years ranging from $2,488 on cars with less than 12.5 mpg fuel economy, to no tax on cars achieving 27.5 mpg or better. Grants a rebate, or excise tax credit to automobile manufacturers for the sale of cars with good fuel efficiency. Establishes a graduated scale of credits initially ranging from $47 for a car with a fuel economy of 19 mpg, to $473 for a car with a fuel economy greater than 39 mpg. Increases this scale over eight years to range from $62 for cars with a rating above 28.5 mpg, to $500 for ratings greater than 39.5 mpg. Limits the credit to sales of domestically manufactured cars, and to foreign made cars pursuant to executive agreements designed to protect domestic manufacturers from adverse effects arising from the fuel efficiency excise taxes and rebates. Imposes a standby gasoline tax, equal to five cents per gallon for each full percentage point that domestic consumption exceeds the national target level for the preceeding year. Establishes target levels which increase to a 1980 high of 7.45 million barrels average daily consumption, and then decrease to 6.5 million barrels daily after 1986. Limits the annual tax increase to five cents per gallon, and the cumulative increase to 50 cents. Assesses the tax on gasoline sold by producers and importers, and on gasoline held for sale by retailers. Allows refunds of this tax, when the applicable tax decreases, on gasoline sold to retailers but not held at the place intended for retail sale, if the decrease is passed on to the retailer through a partial refund. Allows a refundable income tax credit to an individual equal to the product of the individual's personal exemptions and the applicable per capita payment of standby gasoline tax receipts for the taxable year. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Federal Energy Administration, to determine the per capita payment upon a base amount, derived by subtracting the anticipated business deductions for the standby gasoline tax from total standby revenues, after accounting for administrative costs. Limits refunds of this credit to individuals qualifying for the earned income credit, or who have dependent children living with them, have earned income, and, if married, have filed joint returns. Increases the excise taxes on special fuels for motorboats and noncommercial aircraft. 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 busses sold to ultimate purchasers after April 20, 1977 and on or before this Act's enactment. Allows investment tax credits for the installation of electric power boosters, coal and other non-petroleum power facilities, coal pollution control devices, solar equipment and other energy conservation devices prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury in consultation with the Federal Energy Administration. Limits the credit to expenses attributable to construction between April 20, 1977 and January 1, 1983, on pre-existing business property. Imposes, over a two year period, a crude oil equalization tax on domestically produced crude oil, in an amount equal to the higher cost of imported oil, less tariffs and import fees. Refunds the amount of this tax attributable to domestically refined distillate fuel oil, as determined by the Federal Energy Administrator, to retailers where the retailer has sold and delivered the oil into the tank of a residential structure, and reduced the price to the purchaser by an equivalent amount. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to determine the per capita payment of crude oil equalization taxes, after subtracting business deductions for the tax and retailer refunds from anticipated revenues, and to provide an equivalent income tax credit in the same manner as for rebates of the standby gasoline tax. Grants equivalent rebates from the gasoline standby and crude petroleum use taxes to persons without taxable income by requiring appropriate payments by the States, with Federal reimbursement. 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. Prohibits any computation of such rebates in determining any individual's or family's eligibility for any Federal, State or local aid or assistance, or treatment as an increase in income or a reduction in Federal taxes under State law. Directs all employers to adjust employee withholding taxes to reflect the rebates allowable from the crude oil equalization and gasoline standby taxes. Imposes an oil consumption tax on taxable electric utilities equal to 25 cents per million BTU's used annually after 1982. Imposes an oil consumption tax on other trades or businesses in accordance with a graduated scale of taxable oil use, ranging from 60 percent of 600 billion BTU's to 100 percent of 1,500 BTU's. Increases the tax on the taxable use of oil, over a seven year period, from 15 to 50 cents per million BTU's. Imposes a tax on natural gas use by utilities after 1982, and other businesses after 1978, for an amount equal, after intermediate adjustments during interim periods, to the excess cost of certain distillate petroleum products over natural gas per BTU. Imposes this tax against the same amount of taxable energy use as is liable under the oil consumption tax for non- utilities. Exempts petroleum use otherwise taxable under the retailer or manufacturers excise taxes, and specified uses of petroleum and natural gas from both of the consumption taxes. Allows non-utilities a credit against such taxes for the expenses incurred in the installation, after 1977, of power sources using coal, and for coal preparation, transportation and pollution control devices and facilities. Grants a credit against the consumption taxes to electric utilities for expenses incurred after April 20, 1977 in converting oil or natural gas powered generating equipment to equipment utilizing other fuels. Specifies the minimum tax treatment of intangible drilling expenses relating to oil, gas, and geothermal wells.
Bill· HRH.R. 6804 (95th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1977
Department of Energy Organization Act - Title I: Declaration of Findings Policy and Purposes - Declares it the policy of the United States that energy conservation be given the highest priority in any national energy program. Title II: Establishment of Department - Established a Department of Energy in the executive branch. Establishes an Energy Information Administration and an Economic Regulatory Administration within such Department. Establishes within the Department an Office of Inspector General to review and investigate problems relating to the administration of the programs and operations of the Department. Title III: Transfers of Functions - Transfers to the Secretary of Energy all functions now vested in the Federal Energy Administration and the Energy Research and Development Administration. Transfers energy-related functions from the Department of the Interior to the new Secretary. Transfers specified functions of the Federal Power Commission, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, the Interstate Commerce Commission, the Secretary of the Navy, and the Secretary of Commerce to the new Secretary. Title IV: Federal Energy Regulatory Commission - Establishes a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission within the Department to be composed of five members appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. Transfers regulatory functions of the Federal Power Commission under the Federal Power Act and the Natural Gas Act to the new Commission. Establishes procedures governing the operation of the Commission. Authorizes the Secretary of Energy to delegate additional functions to the Commission. Title V: Administrative Procedures and Judicial Review - Stipulates that the provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act shall apply to rules and regulations issued by the Secretary or a delegate. Requires that opportunity for oral presentations of viewpoints be afforded when regulations are likely to have a substantial economic impact. Requires hearings on rules which substantially impact on a single geographic area, to be held in such geographic area. Stipulates that United States district courts shall have exclusive jurisdiction of cases arising under this Act without regard to amount in controversy, except where otherwise provided in authority transferred to the Secretary. Title VI: Administrative Provisions - Prohibits supervising employees from holding any interest in energy companies. Authorizes the Secretary to grant waivers from such prohibition in cases of exceptional hardship. Requires disclosure of known financial interest by officers and employees of the Department, subject to criminal sanctions. Grants the Secretary limited authority to reorganize organizational units within the Department. Directs the Secretary to submit annual reports of the activities of the Department to the President. Authorizes the Secretary to delegate authority to other officers, to create regional offices, and to establish advisory committees. Requires the Secretary to submit annual reports to the President for submission to the Congress. Title VII: Transitional Savings and Conforming Provisions - Stipulates that transfers of personnel as authorized by this Act shall not result in reduction in grade or unemployment for one year after enactment of this Act. Stipulates that orders, rules, and proceedings reestablished or commenced under previous authority shall not be affected by the transfers under this Act. Amends the Federal Energy Administration Act, the Energy Reorganization Act, the Atomic Energy Act, the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act, the Energy Conservation Standards for New Buildings Act, the Rural Electrification Act of 1936, and other provisions of law to conform with the changes made by this Act. Title VIII: Effective Date and Interim Appointments - Stipulates that the provisions of this act shall take effective no later than 120 days after the Secretary first takes office. Establishes procedures for interim appointments of officers prior to the effective date of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 6796 (95th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1977
Authorizes the appropriation of $6,238,667,000 to the Energy Research and Development Administration for energy research, development, demonstration, and related activities for fiscal year 1978. Title I: Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration, and Related Activities - Details authorizations for operating expenses for programs for fossil energy development, solar energy development, geothermal energy development, conservation research and development, environment and safety research and development, nuclear research and development, and other related programs. Lists authorizations for additional plant and capital equipment expenditures. Rescinds authorizations for prior projects relating to (1) preliminary planning of molten salt breeder reactors and (2) development of a neutron source facility at Los Alamos, New Mexico. Title II: General Provisions - Amends the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974 to impose limitations and conditions upon annual expenditures for energy research and development activities. Prohibits the vesting of title to facilities or property in entitles other than the United States without prior Congressional review. Places dollar and percentage limits in cost overruns allowable on specific projects without prior Congressional review. Imposes additional limitations on cost overruns allowable without additional Congressional authorization.
Bill· HRH.R. 6794 (95th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1977
Federal Energy Administration Authorization Act - Amends the Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974 to authorize appropriations for fiscal years 1977 and fiscal year 1978 for specified organizational entities within the Administration. Imposes restrictions and limitations on the use of funds authorized by this Act. Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to increase the appropriations authorizations for fiscal years 1977 and 1978 for energy conservation and efficiency improvement programs under such Act. Authorizes additional appropriations to assist in petroleum reserves shortage programs. Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to authorize appropriations for fiscal years 1977 and 1978 for energy conservation and renewable-resource obligation guarantees. Extends the Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974 until September 30, 1978. Amends the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974 to extend the coal conversion and allocation authority of the Federal Energy Administrator until December 31, 1978. Amends the Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974 to establish procedures governing the use of commercial standards by the Federal Energy Administrator in proposed rules, regulations, or other activities. Directs the Administrator to establish regulations to eliminate, avoid, or mitigate conflicts-of-interest in Agency contracting procedures.
Bill· HRH.R. 6781 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1977
National Energy Extension Service Act - Establishes an Energy Extension Service in the Energy Research and Development Administration to develop and implement a comprehensive program for the identification and application of energy conserving practices and techniques. Stipulates that programs shall provide for technical assistance and practical demonstration in the agricultural, commercial, residential, and small business sectors. Stipulates that such program shall be implemented in a manner designed to minimize conflict with existing services in the private sector of the economy. Establishes procedures and criteria for the development of State plans for implementing the provisions of this Act. Allows for Federal development of plans for States in which an acceptable plan has not been submitted. Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to develop a comprehensive program and plan for coordination of Federal energy education and information dissemination programs. Requires such plan to detail procedures for assessing the energy efficiency of various Federal programs. Establishes a National Energy Extension Service Advisory Board to conduct a continuing review of the programs. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary for the purposes of this Act. Stipulates that the annual authorization for such programs may be included in the annual authorization for nonnuclear programs for the Energy Research and Development Administration. Prescribes a formula for allocation of such funds to the States.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 531 (95th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1977
Directs that the expenses of investigations and studies to be conducted by the Ad Hoc Committee on Energy, not to exceed $212,833, be paid out of the contingent fund of the House.
Bill· HRH.R. 6730 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1977
Energy Conservation Tax Incentives Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow limited, nonrefundable income tax credits for individuals who: (1) install qualified insulation in their residences; (2) install qualified solar heating and cooling equipment in dwelling units used by them, or leased to others as residences; (3) replace the heating system in any dwelling with a reversible, compressible refrigerant system (i.e., a heat pump system); or (4) purchase personal or family electric highway vehicles between 1976 and 1982.
Bill· HRH.R. 6727 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1977
Amends the Federal Nonnuclear Energy Research and Development Act of 1974 to direct the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to assist less developed countries in the development and utilization of unconventional, nonnuclear energy technologies. Authorizes the Administrator, in cooperation with the Agency for International Development, to conduct studies on the energy needs, uses, and resources in other countries. Stipulates that such studies should be designed to result in the establishment of an information system permitting transfers of unconventional, nonnuclear energy technologies to impoverished areas of the world. Requires that results of such studies and recommendations for cooperative projects be reported to Congress by July 1, 1978. Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000 to the Energy Research and Development Administration for fiscal year 1978 for such purposes.
Bill· HRH.R. 6702 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1977
Directs the Administrator of the Energy Research and Development Administration to make a complete study of the use of grain, grain products, or their derivatives in the development and use of fuels. Details various factors to be included in such study and recommendations to Congress for further research, development, and demonstration activities. Stipulates that such report to Congress shall be completed no later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 6661 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1977
Cogeneration and Waste Heat Utilization Act - Title I: Waste Energy Recovery Policy Analysis - Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to study the feasibility of implementing waste heat energy recovery technology on a nationwide scale. Details subjects to be covered in periodic progress reports to the Congress and the President. Title II: Interim Incentives for Industrial Cogeneration - Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to allow a special tax credit for equipment which generates electrical energy in excess of the users needs in marketable quantities. Stipulates that electric power distributors who unreasonably refuse to purchase and transmit excess electrical energy (in accordance with standards prescribed by the Federal Power Commission) shall be denied investment tax credits. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to make grants to State utility regulatory authorities on an interim basis to assist such authorities in encouraging recovery and use of waste heat energy.
Bill· HRH.R. 6660 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1977
Electric Utility Act Title I: Improving Efficiency of, and Preserving Competition in, Generation and Transmission of Electricity - Amends the Federal Power Act to authorize the Federal Power Commission to take additional action to increase the transmission capacity of electric generating facilities. Requires the use of central dispatch generating systems in all areas where technologically and economically feasible. Directs the Commission to require utilities to report anticipated shortages of electric energy and to accommodate such shortages in a manner designed to insure continuity of service to retail and wholesale customers. Establishes preliminary proceedings on proposed new utility rate schedules to allow the Commission to authorize such schedules on an interim basis. Prohibits utilities from proposing rate increases while the Commission has pending before it a schedule filed by the same utility, except under extraordinary circumstances. Prohibits increases or automatic adjustments resulting in increases in rate schedules without consideration of such increases in an evidentiary hearing. Requires review of legitimate automatic adjustment clauses by the Commission at least every two years. Authorizes the Commission to issue orders prohibiting unfair methods of competition by public utilities. Authorizes the Commission to review plans for operation of bulk power facilities and to require that such facilities be constructed in a manner consistent with antitrust laws. Directs the Commission to prescribe standards of electric utility reliability. Directs the Commission to prescribe rules encouraging the cogeneration of electric energy with other forms of energy. Revises the prohibition against interlocking directorates contained in such Act to include additional occupations which may not be held by officers or directors of public utilities without approval by the Commission. Title II: Coordination of Planning of Bulk Power Facilities - Requires that electric utilities which control bulk power facilities prepare an annual long-range plan for the use of each such facility. Establishes areawide planning councils to review such plans and submit area plans for bulk power facilities to the Commission. Title III: Improving Efficiency of Use of Electricity - Limits the applicability of the provisions of this title to sales of electric energy by electric utilities for purposes other than resale. Establishes national minimum standards for State-regulated electric utility rates. Stipulates that such rates shall reflect actual costs of providing electric service to each consumer class. Authorizes lower rates for electric energy for essential needs of residential electric consumers, as defined by the State regulatory authority. Stipulates that promotional, political, or institutional advertising costs incurred by public utilities, with specified exceptions, shall not be chargeable to electric consumers. Authorizes electric utilities to recover reasonable costs incurred for pollution control facilities from electric consumers. Prohibits increases or automatic adjustments resulting in increases in State-regulated electric utility rates without consideration of such increases in an evidentiary hearing. Stipulates that automatic adjustment clauses shall be subject to review by the State regulatory authority at least every two years. Requires State regulated electric utilities to promptly implement alternative load management techniques which have been determined to be practicable and cost-effective. Requires such utilities to inform electric consumers of existing rate schedules on and annual basis. Requires notification within 30 days of any proposed changes in rate schedules. Requires such utilities to furnish data on amount of actual electric energy consumption upon request by a specific consumer. Imposes minimum procedures upon such utilities to be followed prior to termination of electric service. Stipulates that nonregulated utilities shall be subject to the same requirements imposed by this title upon State-regulated utilities. Prohibits any rate increases by electric utilities except in accordance with such requirements. Establishes procedures for administration and enforcement of the provisions of this title. Authorizes State regulatory agencies or electric consumers to intervene in any proceeding under this title. Title IV: Consumer Representation and Assistance to State Agencies - Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to authorize the Federal Energy Administrator to make grants to State utility regulatory commissions to: (1) improve staffing; (2) encourage the development of innovative rate structures; and (3) to provide for programs to meet requirements with respect to participation in proceedings. Authorizes the appropriation of $40,000,000 per fiscal year for improved staffing. Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000 per fiscal year for each of the remaining purposes of this title. Establishes procedures for equitable allotment of sums appropriated under this title among the States in accordance with prescribed guidelines. Amends the Federal Power Act to establish an independent Office of Public Counsel in the Federal Power Commission to represent consumer interests in proceeding before the Commission. Authorizes the appropriation of the following sums to the Office: $500,000 for fiscal year 1978; $2,000,000 for fiscal year 1979; $2,200,000 for fiscal year 1980; and $2,400,000 for fiscal year 1981. Authorizes compensation of other parties in Commission proceedings whose views might not otherwise be adequately represented without such assistance. Stipulates that the total amount of such assistance shall not exceed $2,000,000 to all persons in any fiscal year.
Bill· HRH.R. 6643 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1977
Coal Transportation Act - Amends the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920 to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to grant rights-of-way on Federal lands for coal pipelines. Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to make coal pipelines operating in interstate commerce subject to regulation under such Act. Stipulates that charges for the transportation of coal by pipeline based on long-term commitments are presumptively unlawful unless finally approved by the Commission for use by common carriers by railroad. Prohibits coal pipeline carriers from transporting coal in interstate commerce where such carriers have interests in such coal. Requires the construction and maintenance of feeder or distribution lines by coal pipeline carriers. Prohibits abandonment of existing pipelines without certification by the Interstate Commerce Commission. Establishes procedures governing issuance of such certificates. Imposes civil penalties for illegal abandonment of existing pipelines. Establishes procedures governing the granting of easements to coal pipeline carriers by the Commission in accordance with prescribed criteria. Requires that Commission approval be obtained prior to transfers, mergers, and acquisitions involving coal pipeline carriers. Lists criteria to be considered by the Commission in evaluating such proposed transactions. Prohibits the Commission from issuing certificates of public convenience and necessity to coal pipeline carriers without receiving the advice of the Attorney General and the Federal Trade Commission that such action would not contravene antitrust laws. Establishes procedures for enforcement of the requirements of this Act against coal pipeline carriers by the Attorney General upon the request of the Interstate Commerce Commission. Imposes criminal and civil penalties for such violations. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to prescribe regulations to apply the provisions of the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1968 to coal pipelines.
Bill· HRH.R. 6627 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 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.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 520 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 April 1977
Directs the Architect of the Capitol to conduct a feasibility study of using solar energy in certain House Office Buildings. Authorizes the appropriation of funds to conduct such study.
Bill· SS. 1363 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 1977
Cogeneration and Waste Heat Utilization Act -- Title I: Waste Heat Energy Recovery Policy Analysis -- Directs the Federal Energy Administrator to study the feasibility of implementing waste heat energy recovery technology on a nationwide scale. Details subjects to be covered in periodic progress reports to the Congress and the President. Title II: Research, Development, Demonstration, and Technology Transfer Program -- Directs the administration of the Energy Research and Development Administration to establish a program designed to improve the efficiency and capabilities of industrial and utility dual-purpose powerplants. Requires that such a program be formulated in conjunction with a transition from petroleum and natural gas to coal and other alternate energy sources. Title III: Interim Incentives for Industrial Cogeneration -- Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to allow a special tax credit for equipment which generates electrical energy in excess of the uses needs in marketable quantities. Stipulates that electric power distributors who unreasonably refuse to purchase and transmit excess electrical energy (in accordance with standards prescribed by the Federal Power Commission) shall be denied investment tax credits. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to make grants to State utility regulatory authorities on an interim basis to assist such authorities in emergency recovery and use of waste heat energy.
Bill· SS. 1364 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 1977
Electrical Lifeline for the Elderly Rate Reform Act -- Stipulates that no rate schedule of an electric utility shall result in a greater per kilowatt-hour charge to elderly residential consumers for a subsistence quantity of electric energy than the lowest charge to any other electric consumer. Sets forth procedures for enforcement of the provisions of this Act. Imposes criminal penalties for persons found guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation of one's status as a residential electric consumer. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to provide financial assistance to State and local regulatory authorities to assist in the establishment of subsistence standards for the elderly. Directs the Administrator to report to Congress within 18 months on the effects of this Act on electric utility rate structures, electric consumption, and related problems.
Bill· HRH.R. 6585 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 1977
Utility Services Stamp Act - Directs the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare to establish and administer a utility services stamp program designed to assist low-income and fixed income households in meeting monthly utility costs. Prescribes a schedule of benefits relating the number of persons in the household and its taxable income to the allotment of coupons it is eligible to receive. Stipulates that responsibility for certification of eligible households and issuance of stamps shall rest with the States, subject to the approval of the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to reimburse participating States for costs incurred in administering the program. Stipulates that the value of the utility stamp provided to a qualified household under this Act shall not be considered to be income or resources for any purposes under any Federal or State law. Declares that any landlord who accepts any part of his rental charges in utility services stamps shall be deemed to have agreed to stated conditions regarding increases in rent. Imposes criminal penalties for uses of utility stamps not authorized by this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 6573 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 1977
Amends the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974 to require that the Energy Research and Development Administration notify legislatures of affected States of plans to explore sites for radioactive waste storage facilities. Prohibits the Administration from contracting for construction of any such facility at a site where the State legislature has indicated its disapproval.
Bill· HRH.R. 6587 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 1977
Authorizes the President to nullify and cancel for as long as he deems necessary any Federal agency rule or regulation which he determines: (1) may be harmful to human life; (2) may restrict the Nation's supplies of fuel or energy resources; (3) may threaten the Nation's supplies of food and fiber; (4) may interfere with military maneuvers or national security; or (5) may have an adverse effect on the Nation's economy disproportionate to the ecological benefits of such rule or regulation. Permits Congress to disapprove such presidential action within 30 days after it is taken.
Bill· SS. 1354 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 April 1977
Establishes an Office of Inspector General within each of the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Labor, and Transportation, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Energy Research and Development, General Services, National Aeronautics and Space, and Veterans' Administrations. Makes it the duty of such Offices to direct the auditing and investigation of the programs of the agency in which each such Office is established and to recommend policies to each respective agency to promote the efficiency and economy of and to prevent and detect fraud and abuse in the programs administered by each agency. Directs each such Office to coordinate the relationships between its agency and other Federal agencies, States, and local government agencies in carrying out its mission. Requires each such Office to keep Congress and the head of the respective agency fully informed concerning its activities and findings. Specifies the frequency and content of reports. Transfers to each Office specified existing audit and investigation offices within the appropriate agencies.
Bill· HRH.R. 6566 (95th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 22 April 1977
Title I: For National Security Programs - Authorizes the appropriation of $1,951,900,000 to the Energy Research and Development Administration for fiscal year 1978 for operating expenses for various national security programs. Lists specified amounts authorized for weapons activities, nuclear explosives applications, special materials production, laser fusion, naval reactor development, and program management support. Lists amounts authorized for specified plant and capital equipment expenditures. Amends prior year appropriations authorization Acts to authorize increases for specified projects. Title II: General Provisions - Imposes limitations upon the amount of cost overruns incurred by projects authorized by this Act without specific Congressional authorization. Prohibits transfers and unauthorized expenditures of funds without prior notice to Congress with opportunity for Congressional review.
Bill· HRH.R. 6555 (95th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 April 1977
Allows, as a credit against the income tax, 25 percent of the expenditures paid for the installation of solar heating or cooling equipment in any building owned by the taxpayer and used as his residence. Limits the expenditures claimed by any taxpayer, for any building, to $8,000. Prorates the allowable credit among joint owners and tenant stockholders. Prohibits any increase in the structure's basis to the extent that this credit is claimed. Defines "solar heating and cooling equipment" as equipment meeting the criteria of the Solar Heating and Cooling Demonstration Act, with a useful life of at least three years, and which is originally used by the taxpayer. Allows, as a credit against the income tax, 30 percent of the expenditures paid for insulating the taxpayer's residence. Limits the expenditures claimed during this period to $750 for any individual or building. Prorates the allowable credit among joint owners and tenant stockholders. Prohibits any increase in the basis of such residence to the extent that this credit is taken. Allows an investment tax credit for expenditures paid or incurred for insulation and solar energy equipment installed in structures used for a trade or business or held for the production of income. Extends this investment credit to structures used as lodging facilities. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to draft additional criteria defining solar energy equipment for the purposes of the investment tax credit. Allows the amortization, over 60 months, of depreciable shale oil conversion, solar geothermal, and waste energy equipment.
Law· SS. 1340 (95th)open
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1977
ERDA Authorization Act of 1978 - Civilian Applications -- Title I : For Energy Research, Development, Demonstration, and Related Activities -- Authorizes appropriations to the Energy Research and Development Administration for fiscal year 1978 for conservation, fossil energy, solar energy, geothermal energy, and other related research and development 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 and for the neutron source facility in Los Alamos, New Mexico. Title II : 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 III : Authorization of Appropriations for Fiscal Year 1979 -- Authorizes appropriations to the Energy Research and Development Administration to be available no earlier than October 1, 1978, for operating expenses and for plant and capital equipment. Stipulates that all restrictions imposed upon amounts appropriated in fiscal year 1978 pursuant to this Act shall be applicable to amounts appropriated pursuant to this title.
Law· SS. 1339 (95th)open
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1977
ERDA Authorization Act of 1978 - Military Application - Title I: National Defense Programs - Authorizes appropriations to the Energy Research and Development Administration for fiscal year 1978 for operating expenses, weapons activities, special materials production, and other related national defense 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. Title II: General Provisions - Imposes restrictions and limitations upon the use of funds appropriated pursuant to this Act. Requires Congressional review of proposed modification 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 III: Authorization of Appropriations for Fiscal Year 1979 - Authorizes appropriations to the Energy Research and Development Administration to be available no earlier than October 1, 1978, for operating expenses and for plant and capital equipment. Stipulates that all restrictions imposed upon amounts appropriated in fiscal year 1978 pursuant to this Act shall be applicable to amounts appropriated pursuant to this title.