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101 records in 1977
Germany · German Bundestag · 10 June 1977
Germany · German Bundestag · 10 June 1977
United States · United States Congress · 8 June 1977
Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to compute automobile fuel consumption rate statistics based on actual road tests. Requires that such fuel consumption rates, in addition to the presently required fuel economy label, be affixed in a prominent place on each automobile manufactured after 1976. Directs the National Bureau of Standards (NBS) to conduct a study to determine the most accurate and realistic testing procedures which may be used by the EPA for its study of automobile consumption rates. Requires the NBS to report the results of such study to the EPA and to the President and Congress before January 1, 1977.
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1977
Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to authorize the appropriation of $4,500,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1977, 1978, and 1979, for grants for the construction of waste treatment works. Specifies a formula for the allotment of such funds to the States. Authorizes additional appropriations to insure that States and territories meet specified minimum funding levels.
France · Senate · 2 June 1977
France · Senate · 1 June 1977
United States · United States Congress · 27 May 1977
Ocean Pollution Research Program Act - Directs the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to prepare a comprehensive annual plan for ocean pollution research and monitoring to be submitted to Congress and the President. Establishes procedures for interagency coordination of existing ocean-related programs. Authorizes the Administrator to provide financial assistance in the form of grants and contracts for additional ocean research and monitoring activities. Directs the Administrator to submit an annual report of activities under this Act to Congress and the President. Authorizes the appropriation of the following sums to the Administrator to carry out this Act, $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and $6,000,000 for fiscal year 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1977
Mobile Source Emission Control Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to extend through model year 1979 interim standards for hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide emissions from light-duty motor vehicles. Specifies standards applicable in model years 1980 and afterwards for such pollutants. Revises the emission standard for carbon monoxide to allow emissions of up to 9.0 grams per vehicle mile. Extends until model year 1981 the current 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard for nitrogen oxide emissions from light-duty vehicles. Establishes a nitrogen oxides emissions standard of 1.0 gram per vehicle mile for model years after 1981, subject to revision or waiver by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency in accordance with prescribed procedures. Stipulates that such revisions and waivers shall not permit emissions in excess of the 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard. Directs the Administrator, the Secretary of Transportation and the Federal Energy Administration to submit separate reports to Congress regarding the consequences of such emission standards on fuel consumption. Establishes additional prohibitions and penalties for tampering with motor vehicle emission control equipment. Empowers limits in the amount of vehicle testing required of small manufacturers. Establishes procedures for review of instructions for high altitude performance adjustments for motor vehicle emission control systems by the Administrator in accordance with specified requirements. Revises warranty requirements stipulated by the Act. Specifies an 18-month or 18,000 mile warranty requirement for the useful life of motor vehicle emission control systems. Directs the Administrator to study the effects of emissions of sulfur-bearing conformed from motor vehicles and aircraft. Extends the exception for disclosure of confidential information in administrative and judicial proceedings to emission data upon a satisfactory showing to the Administrator that such data would divulge trade secrets. Requires that documentation, justifications, proposed drafts, and comments of other agencies an proposed motor vehicle emission standards be made available to the public once such standards are proposed. Establishes procedures for oral presentation of views, with opportunity for cross-examination, with respect to such standards. Authorizes direct review of alleged procedural errors in the appropriate court of appeals. Authorizes the appropriation of $200,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980, to carry out the purposes of this Act other than research, development, and demonstration activities.
United States · United States Congress · 26 May 1977
Kaw Reservoir Water Conveyance Authorization Act - Directs the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to construct treatment facilities and a regional conveyance system of water from Kaw Lake for non-Federal public members of the Kaw Reservoir Authority, Oklahoma.
France · Senate · 24 May 1977
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 1977
Amends the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to exempt certain Federal public works projects which affect the navigable waters of the United States from being deemed to have jeopardized the existence of an endangered species, or destroyed or modified the habitat of such species. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to prescribe by regulation requirements regarding the construction or operation of such projects as may be necessary to minimize harm to endangered species in the area affected by the project. Declares that the harming or billing of endangered species within the area directly affected by such projects will not be deened a taking of such species under the Act if such harming or billing is directly attributable to the construction or operation of such project, or not in violation of a requirement imposed by the Secretary under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1977
Mobile Source Emission Control Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to extend through model year 1979 interim standards for hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide emissions from light-duty motor vehicles. Specifies standards applicable in model years 1980 and afterwards for such pollutants. Revises the emission standard for carbon monoxide to allow emissions of up to 9.0 grams per vehicle mile. Extends until model year 1981 the current 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard for nitrogen oxide emissions from light-duty vehicles. Establishes a nitrogen oxides emissions standard of 1.0 gram per vehicle mile for model years after 1981, subject to revision or waiver by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency in accordance with prescribed procedures. Stipulates that such revisions and waivers shall not permit emissions in excess of the 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard. Directs the Administrator, the Secretary of Transportation and the Federal Energy Administration to submit separate reports to Congress regarding the consequences of such emission standards on fuel consumption. Establishes additional prohibitions and penalties for tampering with motor vehicle emission control equipment. Empowers limits in the amount of vehicle testing required of small manufacturers. Establishes procedures for review of instructions for high altitude performance adjustments for motor vehicle emission control systems by the Administrator in accordance with specified requirements. Revises warranty requirements stipulated by the Act. Specifies an 18-month or 18,000 mile warranty requirement for the useful life of motor vehicle emission control systems. Directs the Administrator to study the effects of emissions of sulfur-bearing conformed from motor vehicles and aircraft. Extends the exception for disclosure of confidential information in administrative and judicial proceedings to emission data upon a satisfactory showing to the Administrator that such data would divulge trade secrets. Requires that documentation, justifications, proposed drafts, and comments of other agencies an proposed motor vehicle emission standards be made available to the public once such standards are proposed. Establishes procedures for oral presentation of views, with opportunity for cross-examination, with respect to such standards. Authorizes direct review of alleged procedural errors in the appropriate court of appeals. Authorizes the appropriation of $200,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980, to carry out the purposes of this Act other than research, development, and demonstration activities.
United States · United States Congress · 23 May 1977
Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to exempt grain elevators with receiving leg capacities of less than sixteen thousand bushels per hour from regulations issued pursuant to the Clean Air Act establishing new source performance standards for grain elevators.
Germany · German Bundestag · 20 May 1977
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1977
Mobile Source Emission Control Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to extend through model year 1979 interim standards for hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide emissions from light-duty motor vehicles. Specifies standards applicable in model years 1980 and afterwards for such pollutants. Revises the emission standard for carbon monoxide to allow emissions of up to 9.0 grams per vehicle mile. Extends until model year 1981 the current 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard for nitrogen oxide emissions from light-duty vehicles. Establishes a nitrogen oxides emissions standard of 1.0 gram per vehicle mile for model years after 1981, subject to revision or waiver by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency in accordance with prescribed procedures. Stipulates that such revisions and waivers shall not permit emissions in excess of the 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard. Directs the Administrator, the Secretary of Transportation and the Federal Energy Administration to submit separate reports to Congress regarding the consequences of such emission standards on fuel consumption. Establishes additional prohibitions and penalties for tampering with motor vehicle emission control equipment. Empowers limits in the amount of vehicle testing required of small manufacturers. Establishes procedures for review of instructions for high altitude performance adjustments for motor vehicle emission control systems by the Administrator in accordance with specified requirements. Revises warranty requirements stipulated by the Act. Specifies an 18-month or 18,000 mile warranty requirement for the useful life of motor vehicle emission control systems. Directs the Administrator to study the effects of emissions of sulfur-bearing conformed from motor vehicles and aircraft. Extends the exception for disclosure of confidential information in administrative and judicial proceedings to emission data upon a satisfactory showing to the Administrator that such data would divulge trade secrets. Requires that documentation, justifications, proposed drafts, and comments of other agencies an proposed motor vehicle emission standards be made available to the public once such standards are proposed. Establishes procedures for oral presentation of views, with opportunity for cross-examination, with respect to such standards. Authorizes direct review of alleged procedural errors in the appropriate court of appeals. Authorizes the appropriation of $200,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980, to carry out the purposes of this Act other than research, development, and demonstration activities.
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1977
Mobile Source Emission Control Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to extend through model year 1979 interim standards for hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide emissions from light-duty motor vehicles. Specifies standards applicable in model years 1980 and afterwards for such pollutants. Revises the emission standard for carbon monoxide to allow emissions of up to 9.0 grams per vehicle mile. Extends until model year 1981 the current 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard for nitrogen oxide emissions from light-duty vehicles. Establishes a nitrogen oxides emissions standard of 1.0 gram per vehicle mile for model years after 1981, subject to revision or waiver by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency in accordance with prescribed procedures. Stipulates that such revisions and waivers shall not permit emissions in excess of the 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard. Directs the Administrator, the Secretary of Transportation and the Federal Energy Administration to submit separate reports to Congress regarding the consequences of such emission standards on fuel consumption. Establishes additional prohibitions and penalties for tampering with motor vehicle emission control equipment. Empowers limits in the amount of vehicle testing required of small manufacturers. Establishes procedures for review of instructions for high altitude performance adjustments for motor vehicle emission control systems by the Administrator in accordance with specified requirements. Revises warranty requirements stipulated by the Act. Specifies an 18-month or 18,000 mile warranty requirement for the useful life of motor vehicle emission control systems. Directs the Administrator to study the effects of emissions of sulfur-bearing conformed from motor vehicles and aircraft. Extends the exception for disclosure of confidential information in administrative and judicial proceedings to emission data upon a satisfactory showing to the Administrator that such data would divulge trade secrets. Requires that documentation, justifications, proposed drafts, and comments of other agencies an proposed motor vehicle emission standards be made available to the public once such standards are proposed. Establishes procedures for oral presentation of views, with opportunity for cross-examination, with respect to such standards. Authorizes direct review of alleged procedural errors in the appropriate court of appeals. Authorizes the appropriation of $200,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980, to carry out the purposes of this Act other than research, development, and demonstration activities.
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1977
Toxic Substances Control Act Amendments - Title I: Toxic Substances Injury Assistance - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to authorize the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to make grants to States for up to 75 percent of the amounts paid by such States in toxic substances injury assistance to qualified individuals and business. Stipulates that priority shall be given in granting assistance to actions principally involving polybrominated biphenyls. Imposes conditions upon applicants for assistance under this title. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States for the establishment and operation of medical programs designed to monitor adverse effects of chemical substances. Authorizes the Administrator to make payments to individuals for actual medical expenses incurred as a result of exposure to injurous chemical substances. Authorizes the appropriation of $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1977, 1978, and 1979, to the Administrator for grants and payments under this title. Title II: Chemical Emergency Response Team - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish and maintain a Chemical Emergency Response Team within the Agency. Requires that the team be able to respond rapidly to situations where significant threats to health as the environment are posed by chemical substances. Directs the Administrator to develop a contingency plans detailing procedures to be utilized in prevention or mitigation of unreasonable risks posed by chemical substances. Establishes additional procedures governing the operation of the response team. Authorizes appropriations for such purposes for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States for the development of State contingency plans to prevent or reduce risks posed by chemical substance emergency situations. Details elements to be included in State contingency plans. Increases the amount authorized for grants to State programs under the Act from $1,500,000 to $4,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1978 and 1979. Title III: Authorization for Appropriations - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to increase the amounts authorized to be appropriated to the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency under such Act to $50,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 and $100,000,000 for fiscal year 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1977
Chemical Emergency Response Team Act - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish and maintain a Chemical Emergency Response Team within the Agency. Requires that the team be able to respond rapidly to situations where significant threats to health as the environment are posed by chemical substances. Directs the Administrator to develop a contingency plan detailing procedures to be utilized in prevention or mitigation of unreasonable risks posed by chemical substances. Establishes additional procedures governing the operation of the response team. Authorizes appropriations for such purposes for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States for the development of State contingency plans to prevent or reduce risks posed by chemical substance emergency situations. Details information to be included in State contingency plans.
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1977
Amends the Clean Air Act to allow the granting of variances from clean air standards to powerplants which emit sulfur dioxide. Requires that such variances be granted where (1) the unemployment rate in the affected State exceeds four percent and where (2) the variances does not allow for continuous sulfur dioxide emissions which may pose a serious threat to public health. Requires that variances issued under this Act set forth compliance schedules which require increments of progress in emission control technology. Stipulates that variances shall not exceed a five-year period. Authorizes additional variances for periods of up to five years if the unemployment rate in the affected State exceeds four percent. Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to impose interim requirements where technologically and economically practicable beyond a reasonable doubt. Authorizes enforcement proceedings, and or revocation of variances for violation of any such conditions.
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1977
Department of Environment and Natural Resources Act - Establishes an executive Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Establishes, under the Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources, the offices of Deputy Secretary, Assistant Secretary for Policy, Assistant Secretary for Administration, Assistant Secretary for Environmental Science and Research. Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife and Recreation, Assistant Secretary for Land and Water Resources, and a General Counsel. Establishes Assistant Secretaries for Air Quality, Water Quality, Atmospheric Services,and Oceans. Abolishes the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of the Interior. Transfers all functions of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of the Interior to the new Department. Establishes within the Department a Bureau of Coastal Zone Management to carry out all functions of the Coastal Zone Act. Transfers authority currently vested in the Secretary of Agriculture with respect to coastal zone activities to the Bureau. Establishes within the Department on Air Quality Administration, a Water Quality Administration, and a Waste and Hazardous Materials Administration to exercise authorities previously vested in the Environmental Protection Agency. Establishes an Atmospheric Services Administration within the Department to exercise authorities of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the United States Weather Service. Directs the Assistant Secretary of the Atmospheric Services to assume responsibility for all weather modification programs except those which lie solely within the Department of Defense. Establishes an Oceans Administration within the Department to exercise various authorities of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency, the United States Army Corps of Engineers, the Department of the Interior and the Department of Commerce. Establishes an Office of Ocean Vessel and Facilities Safety within the Department to coordinate Federal regulations concerning pollution from vessels, parts, and offshore facilities. Stipulates that the Secretary of Transportation and the Federal Maritime Commission must obtain concurrent approval of the Director of the Office prior to exercise of regulatory authority with respect to vessel and facility discharges. Establishes procedures governing general operation of the Department. Directs the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to make such additional transfers of authority as required to effectuate the purposes of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 10 May 1977
National Oil Recycling Act - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, the Federal Energy Administration, the Secretary of Commerce (acting through the National Bureau of Standards), and all Federal procuring agencies to encourage the use of recycled oil through Federal contracts and procurement policies. Directs the General Services Administration, the Department of Defense, and all other Federal agencies to revise procurement regulations to conform to the intent of this Act. Authorizes the appropriation of $25,000,000 for fiscal year 1975 and for each succeeding fiscal year for grants to States to assist in the development of State oil recycling programs. Details minimum eligibility requirements for participation by States in such program. Stipulates that this Act shall not preempt stricter State controls over recycled oil. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to proscribe standards governing the labeling of recycled oil consistent with this Act, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976, and the Energy Policy and Conservation Act. Prohibits restrictive covenants designed to discourage the recycling of used oil. Imposes a fine of $50,000 and/or imprisonment of up to one year for violations of such prohibition. Requires major users of industrial and automotive oil, used oil recyclers, and used oil collectors to maintain complete records of oil recycling-related activities. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to submit annual reports to Congress containing information on the extent and impact of oil recycling in the United States. Authorizes the appropriation of $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1977 through 1981 for grants for the demonstration of new oil recycling processes and technologies. Authorizes the appropriation of $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1977 through 1979 for the development of reports, standards, and testing methods under this Act. Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 to expand the present excise tax on lubricating oil to include hydraulic oil, cutting oil, and non-highway uses of such oils. Exempts recycled oil from such tax. Authorizes a tax credit of three cents for each gallon of lubricating oil re-refined by recyclers of used oil.
United States · United States Congress · 3 May 1977
Amends the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to exempt certain Federal public works projects which affect the navigable waters of the United States from being deemed to have jeopardized the existence of an endangered species, or destroyed or modified the habitat of such species. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to prescribe by regulation requirements regarding the construction or operation of such projects as may be necessary to minimize harm to endangered species in the area affected by the project. Declares that the harming or billing of endangered species within the area directly affected by such projects will not be deened a taking of such species under the Act if such harming or billing is directly attributable to the construction or operation of such project, or not in violation of a requirement imposed by the Secretary under this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 2 May 1977
Comprehensive Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act - Title I: Domestic Oil Pollution Liability, Compensation, and Fund - Establishes in the Treasury of the United States a fund for the purpose of paying for otherwise uncompensated losses resulting from oil pollution. Enumerates the sources of moneys to be deposited in such fund, including a fee, not to exceed three cents per barrel of oil, imposed upon owners of facilities receiving oil. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to issue obligations to the Secretary of the Treasury at times when fund assets are insufficient to meet fund liabilities. Lists the types of injuries which may be compensated under this Act and the potential claimants who have standing to assert claims involving each such type of damage. Imposes joint, several, and strict liability on the owners and operators of each pollution source. Specifies liability limits, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, for ships and other vessels. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish limits on the liability of classes of facilities used for transporting, producing, processing, storing, or transferring oil. Requires the owner or operator: (1) of any such facility; or (2) any ship which uses such facility or navigable waters of the United States, to establish and maintain evidence of financial responsibility in an amount sufficient to satisfy applicable liability limits. Directs the person in charge of a vessel or facility to immediately notify the Secretary of Transportation of any pollution incident in which the vessel or facility is involved. Specifies procedures whereby the Secretary may, in the absence of such an admission, designate and advertise pollution sources. Directs the Secretary, in instances in which: (1) the owner and operator of a vessel or facility designated by the Secretary deny such vessel's or facility's involvement; (2) the source of the discharge is a public vessel; or (3) the Secretary is unable to designate the pollution source, to advertise procedures for presenting claims directly to the fund. Requires all other claims with limited exceptions, to be initially presented to the owner or operator, or to such person's guarantor. Permits claimants to either present a claim to the fund or to bring an action in an appropriate United States liability or fail to settle the claim within a specified period. Sets forth procedures for the disposition and appeal of claims submitted to the fund. Requires both the plaintiff and the defendant in a court action brought against an owner, operator, or guarantor to forward copies of all pleadings to the fund. Permits the fund to intervene in such actions. Subrogates any person or government entity, including the fund, paying compensation to all the claimant's claims and rights under this Act. Specifies procedures for and the measure of recovery in actions brought by the fund against owners, operators, or guarantors of alleged pollution sources. Declares that the rights and remedies under this Act shall be exclusive with respect to economic loss caused by oil pollution. Sets penalties for persons failing to comply with specified provisions in this Act Title II: Effective Dates; Conforming Amendments; Severability - Specifies the effective date of this Act. Amends specified laws, including the Deepwater Port Act of 1974 and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, to conform with the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1977
Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Amendments Act - Amends the Marine Protection Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 to prohibit the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency from issuing ocean dumping permits allowing the dumping of sewage sludge into the territorial seas or the waters of the contiguous zone after December 31, 1981. Establishes procedures for the adjudication of claims for damages attributable to the dumping of sewage sludge by the Administrator. Specifies those damages which qualify for compensation under this Act. Establishes a Sewage Sludge Damage Claims Fund in the Treasury of the United States to pay such compensation. Imposes a dumping assessment against persons issued permits for the dumping of sewage sludge to be deposited in the Fund. Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1978 and 1979 to administer the provisions of this Act.
Germany · German Bundestag · 29 April 1977
Germany · German Bundestag · 29 April 1977
Germany · German Bundestag · 29 April 1977
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1977
Environmental Research and Development Authorization Act - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish a Science Advisory Board to consult with the Administrator on such matters where the Administrator shall determine that such scientific advice is desirable. Directs the Administrator to establish a program of long-term environmental research through the establishment of appropriate organizational entities and environmental research laboratories. Stipulates that funds appropriated to the Administrator for environmental research purposes shall, unless otherwise specified, be allocated in the following manner: 60 percent to the appropriate program office, 25 percent to the Office of Research and Development, and 15 percent to the newly-created Office of Long-Term Environmental Research. Authorizes appropriations to the Administrator for fiscal year 1978 for specified environmental research and development activities in the areas of air and waste management, water pollution control, toxic substances control, pesticides, and radiation. Directs the Chairman of the Council on Environmental Quality to report to the Congress and the President regarding coordination of environmental research and development activities.
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1977
Amends the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act to authorize appropriations to carry out the ocean dumping permit program for fiscal years 1978 and 1979.
United States · United States Congress · 25 April 1977
Amends the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act to revise pesticide registration procedures under such Act to allow for variations in costs imposed upon applicants for required tests dependent upon size of market interest. Authorizes non-disclosure of certain test information where deemed to constitute a trade secret. Stipulates that the identity of inert ingredients of pesticides be disclosed only where (1) a hazard is posed to the public or (2) disclosure would not be likely to harm the registrant's competitive position. Establishes special procedures governing registration of pesticides substantially similar to currently registered pesticides without adherence to full registration requirements imposed by the Act. Authorizes conditional registration of pesticides containing previously untested active ingredients for a period of time sufficient for the generation of ample test data. Establishes procedures for cancellation of pesticides registered under the special procedures contained in this Act. Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to permit continued sale and use of existing stocks in such circumstances. Authorizes the appropriation of $65,000,000 for fiscal year 1978 to carry out the purposes of the Act.
United States · United States Congress · 22 April 1977
Mobile Source Emission Control Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to extend through model year 1979 interim standards for hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide emissions from light-duty motor vehicles. Specifies standards applicable in model years 1980 and afterwards for such pollutants. Revises the emission standard for carbon monoxide to allow emissions of up to 9.0 grams per vehicle mile. Extends until model year 1981 the current 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard for nitrogen oxide emissions from light-duty vehicles. Establishes a nitrogen oxides emissions standard of 1.0 gram per vehicle mile for model years after 1981, subject to revision or waiver by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency in accordance with prescribed procedures. Stipulates that such revisions and waivers shall not permit emissions in excess of the 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard. Directs the Administrator, the Secretary of Transportation and the Federal Energy Administration to submit separate reports to Congress regarding the consequences of such emission standards on fuel consumption. Establishes additional prohibitions and penalties for tampering with motor vehicle emission control equipment. Empowers limits in the amount of vehicle testing required of small manufacturers. Establishes procedures for review of instructions for high altitude performance adjustments for motor vehicle emission control systems by the Administrator in accordance with specified requirements. Revises warranty requirements stipulated by the Act. Specifies an 18-month or 18,000 mile warranty requirement for the useful life of motor vehicle emission control systems. Directs the Administrator to study the effects of emissions of sulfur-bearing conformed from motor vehicles and aircraft. Extends the exception for disclosure of confidential information in administrative and judicial proceedings to emission data upon a satisfactory showing to the Administrator that such data would divulge trade secrets. Requires that documentation, justifications, proposed drafts, and comments of other agencies an proposed motor vehicle emission standards be made available to the public once such standards are proposed. Establishes procedures for oral presentation of views, with opportunity for cross-examination, with respect to such standards. Authorizes direct review of alleged procedural errors in the appropriate court of appeals. Authorizes the appropriation of $200,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980, to carry out the purposes of this Act other than research, development, and demonstration activities.
United States · United States Congress · 21 April 1977
Chemical Emergency Response Team Act - Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish and maintain a Chemical Emergency Response Team within the Agency. Requires that the team be able to respond rapidly to situations where significant threats to health as the environment are posed by chemical substances. Directs the Administrator to develop a contingency plan detailing procedures to be utilized in prevention or mitigation of unreasonable risks posed by chemical substances. Establishes additional procedures governing the operation of the response team. Authorizes appropriations for such purposes for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States for the development of State contingency plans to prevent or reduce risks posed by chemical substance emergency situations. Details to be included in State contingency plans.
United States · United States Congress · 20 April 1977
Amends the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to authorize appropriations for state cooperative programs for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980.
United States · United States Congress · 20 April 1977
Amends the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to revise the requirements necessary for State programs to be deemed adequate and active programs for the conservation of endangered species and to qualify for Federal assistance under the Act. Authorizes the appropriation of funds for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980 for State cooperative programs under the Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 April 1977
Mobile Source Emission Control Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to extend through model year 1979 interim standards for hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide emissions from light-duty motor vehicles. Specifies standards applicable in model years 1980 and afterwards for such pollutants. Revises the emission standard for carbon monoxide to allow emissions of up to 9.0 grams per vehicle mile. Extends until model year 1981 the current 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard for nitrogen oxide emissions from light-duty vehicles. Establishes a nitrogen oxides emissions standard of 1.0 gram per vehicle mile for model years after 1981, subject to revision or waiver by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency in accordance with prescribed procedures. Stipulates that such revisions and waivers shall not permit emissions in excess of the 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard. Directs the Administrator, the Secretary of Transportation and the Federal Energy Administration to submit separate reports to Congress regarding the consequences of such emission standards on fuel consumption. Establishes additional prohibitions and penalties for tampering with motor vehicle emission control equipment. Empowers limits in the amount of vehicle testing required of small manufacturers. Establishes procedures for review of instructions for high altitude performance adjustments for motor vehicle emission control systems by the Administrator in accordance with specified requirements. Revises warranty requirements stipulated by the Act. Specifies an 18-month or 18,000 mile warranty requirement for the useful life of motor vehicle emission control systems. Directs the Administrator to study the effects of emissions of sulfur-bearing conformed from motor vehicles and aircraft. Extends the exception for disclosure of confidential information in administrative and judicial proceedings to emission data upon a satisfactory showing to the Administrator that such data would divulge trade secrets. Requires that documentation, justifications, proposed drafts, and comments of other agencies an proposed motor vehicle emission standards be made available to the public once such standards are proposed. Establishes procedures for oral presentation of views, with opportunity for cross-examination, with respect to such standards. Authorizes direct review of alleged procedural errors in the appropriate court of appeals. Authorizes the appropriation of $200,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980, to carry out the purposes of this Act other than research, development, and demonstration activities.
United States · United States Congress · 20 April 1977
Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to prohibit the sale, offering for sale, or distribution of certain detergents containing excessive amounts of phosphorus for use within the Great Lakes Region. Defines the Great Lakes Region to include the States of New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Stipulates that the maximum allowable amounts of phosphorus in such detergents shall not exceed (1) 0.5 percent in the case of machine laundry detergents and household cleaning agents; (2) 11 percent in the case of machine dishwashing detergents; and (3) 20 percent in the case of chemicals water conditioners for machine laundry use. Authorizes the Administrator to exempt certain cleaning or water conditioning agents where compliance is deemed unreasonable, impractical, or not feasible. Imposes civil penalties of up to $20,000 for each violation of the prohibitions contained in this Act. Stipulates that illegal agents or conditioners shall be liable to be proceeded against and condemned in United States district courts. Establishes procedures for condemnation and disposal of such illegal products. Authorizes the Administrator to make inspections within reasonable limits in order to enforce the provisions of this Act. Directs the Administrator to study the feasibility of applying such regulations on a nationwide basis.
United States · United States Congress · 19 April 1977
Amends the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act of 1972 to transfer all responsibility for the environmental pesticide control program from the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to the Secretary of Agriculture.
United States · United States Congress · 7 April 1977
Amends the Rural Development Act of 1972 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to implement a nationwide rural source water quality assistance program. Requires affected localities to submit rural source water quality plans to the Secretary for approval. Stipulates that plans developed pursuant to this act shall be consistent with plans and programs under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and other appropriate State programs. Authorizes the Secretary to appoint an advisory board to assist in carrying out the provisions of this Act. Directs the Secretary to prepare annual reports on the program in connection with budget preparation for fiscal years 1979 through 1990. Stipulates that the provisions of this Act shall terminate on September 30, 1991.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Clean Air Act Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to authorize the appropriation of $200,000,000 for each of the three fiscal years after the date of enactment of this Act. Requires employees of the Environmental Protection Agency to disclose known financial interests in persons subject to the Act or in applicants for financial assistance under the Act. Prohibits persons who are employees, officials, stockholders, or otherwise associated with major air pollution sources or their trade associations from serving as officers or employees of the Environmental Protection Agency or as public members of the National Commission on Air Quality. Imposes criminal penalties for knowing violations of such requirements. Title I: Amendments Relating Primarily to Stationary Sources -Directs the Administrator to designate radioactive pollutants, cadmium, arsenic, and polycyclic organic matter as air pollutants to be regulated under the Act unless a finding is made that such substances will not contribute to air pollution likely to endanger public health. Directs the Administrator to promulgate a national primary ambient air quality standard for nitrogen dioxide over a short-term period, absent a finding that such a standard is not required to protect public health. Directs the Administrator to revise and reissue criteria relating to short-term concentrations of nitrogen dioxide and related substances. Directs the Administrator to investigate the relationship between sulfates and public health and welfare. Redefines the term "air pollutant" to include physical, chemical, biological, and radiological substances. Revises the basis for air quality and emission control standards under the Act to regulate air pollution which may reasonably be anticipated to endanger public health or welfare. Directs the Administrator to prepare economic impact statements for various standards and regulations issued pursuant to this Act. Details information required to be included in such statements. Authorizes the Administrator or the States, subject to the approval of the Administrator, to issue delayed compliance orders to existing stationary sources unable to meet specified deadlines. Stipulates that such delayed compliance orders shall not result in postponement of original limitations for more than five years. Authorizes issuance of similar orders for primary nonferrous smelters. Stipulates that such orders may waive the requirement that continuous emission control systems be utilized in cases of economic hardship. Requires that primary nonferrous smelter orders not result in a postponement of applicable emission requirements beyond January 1, 1988. Requires sources subject to such orders to use the best practicable system of emission reduction. Authorizes the assessment of noncompliance penalties against stationary sources not in compliance with applicable emission limitations. Authorizes exemptions from such requirements based on energy requirements, demonstration of innovative technology, impossibility of compliance, or insignificance of the violation. Establishes criteria for determining the amount of such penalty, not to exceed $5,000 per day for each days' violation. Extends compliance dates for sources subject to coal conversion requirements in accordance with provisions of the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974. Stipulates that compliance date extensions shall not be effective for sources in regions where national primary air quality standards are being violated as a result of the emissions of such sources. Stipulates that emission limitations under this Act shall require application of a system of continuous emission reduction, and that alteration of stack heights or other dispersion techniques shall not affect the degree of emission limitation required under the Act. Directs the Administrator to study the effects of the release of halocarbons and other substances on the stratosphere. Requires a National Academy of Sciences study and report on activities which may affect or modify the stratosphere or ozone in the stratosphere and on possible control methods. Directs the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to establish a research and monitoring program to detect potentially harmful changes in the stratosphere. Directs the Administrator to regulate substances which may reasonably be anticipated to affect the stratosphere. Requires States to submit plans for prevention of significant deterioration of air quality in clean air regions, subject to approval by the Administrator. Establishes guidelines for classification of such regions. Imposes limitations on projected increases in ambient concentrations of pollutants for each class of such regions. Requires that new sources constructed in such regions acquire permits to be issued after public hearings and a finding that emissions from such facility will not contribute to air pollution in excess of the appropriate limits. Directs the Administrator to convene a conference on air quality monitoring every three years. Directs the Administrator to issue guidelines to States with respect to monitoring and control of pollutants other than particulates and sulfur dioxide for purposes of prevention of significant air quality deterioration. Establishes a National Commission on Air Quality to conduct studies and investigations of specified air pollution issues. Authorizes the appropriations of $5,000,000 for such Commission studies. Directs the Administrator to provide training assistance to qualified personnel as part of the comprehensive research and development program established by the Act. Authorizes the appropriation of $7,500,000 per fiscal year for the three fiscal years beginning after the date of enactment of this Act. Directs the Administrator to periodically review air quality criteria published pursuant to the Act, with the assistance of recommendations from a seven-member independent scientific review committee. Revises procedures for establishment of new source performance standards to allow for greater input from States in the listing of categories of sources and pollutants for regulation under such provisions. Requires that alternative technological systems and technological innovations be considered where likely to result in equivalent reductions of emissions. Authorizes the Administrator to grant variances from new source standards for the use of technological innovations. Waives rights of governmental immunity in the case of Federal facilities subject to air pollution control requirements. Stipulates that nothing in the Act shall be construed as restricting States, localities, and interstate entities from seeking judicial relief against Federal instrumentalities under State or local air pollution laws. Authorizes the Administrator to waive the requirement that State air pollution control agencies maintain previous levels of spending as a condition of receiving Federal aid where appropriate. Authorizes temporary emergency suspensions from clean air standards for economic or energy- related emergencies of a short-term nature. Directs the Administrator to develop regulations to prevent visibility impairment in clean air regions. Title II: Amendments Relating Primarily to Mobile Sources - Directs the Administrator to study, with the assistance of the National Academy of Sciences, the necessity for indirect source controls to meet the objectives of the Act. Imposes limitations on the use of indirect source controls unless necessary to meet national primary ambient air quality standards for mobile source-related pollutants. Defines the term "indirect source" to include various facilities which may attract mobile sources of air pollution. Authorizes the Administrator to grant extensions of compliance dates for State transportation control plans in accordance with prescribed criteria. Revises emission standards for light duty motor vehicles to extend for three years from model year 1977 to 1980 the compliance date for carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon standards. Imposes interim standards of 1.5 grams per mile for hydrocarbons and 15 grams per mile for carbon monoxide for model years 1977 thorough 1979. Extends the compliance date for nitrogen oxides standards for such vehicles from model year 1978 to 1981. Extends the 2.0 gram per mile interim standard for nitrogen oxides through model year 1980. Authorizes annual suspensions of emission standards for any model year before 1985 by the Administrator if prescribed criteria are met. Directs the Administrator to study the effects on health and welfare of emission of sulfuric acid mist and other unregulated pollutants from motor vehicles. Directs the Administrator to prescribe regulations to limit emissions of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides from heavy-duty vehicles or engines manufactured after model year 1979. Requires continuing studies on the effects of emissions from heavy-duty vehicles. Directs the Administrator to study the possibility of increased use of cost-effectiveness analyses in order to achieve clean air objectives. Directs the Administrator to study the effects on health and welfare of particulate emissions from mobile sources. Requires that motor vehicle emission control regulations provide for nonconformance penalties to be assessed against manufacturers where vehicles fail to meet required standards. Stipulates that air craft emission regulations issued under this Act may be disapproved by the Secretary of Transportation if found to create a hazard to aircraft safety. Requires that motor vehicle emission control systems used to meet air pollution control requirements shall not contribute to an unreasonable risk to public health, welfare, or safety. Requires that State implementation plans provide for annual inspection and maintenance of light- duty vehicles in regions where transportation control measures are applicable. Stipulates that requirements imposed in such testing and inspection program shall be no less stringent than those in effect in New Jersey on the date of enactment of this provision. Revises requirements imposed upon motor vehicle manufactures with respect to warranties applicable to vehicle emission control systems. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to study the impact on competition of various warranties imposed by this Act with respect to such emission control systems. Imposes civil penalties for violations of antitampering provisions of the Act. Stipulates that the cost of emission control for vapor recovery with respect to mobile source fuels shall be borne by owners of retail outlets. Exempts independent small business marketers from such requirements for a two-year period, pending results from a Federal Trade Commission Study on the effects of such requirements on small business marketers. Establishes procedures to allow the Administrator to disapprove instructions for high altitude adjustments of motor vehicles where emission control performance resulting from such adjustments is inadequate. Requires that the Administrator prescribe fill pipe standards in conjunction with any vapor recovery regulations issued under the Act. Directs the Administrator to study onboard hydrocarbon control technology and carbon monoxide intrusion into sustained-use motor vehicles. Directs the Administrator to issue regulations governing the testing of fuels and fuel additives. Authorizes States to adopt and enforce more stringent motor vehicle emission control standards. Title III: Miscellaneous Amendments - Authorizes States to redesignate air quality control regions. Requires the approval of the Administrator and the consent of affected States where emissions from such region may significantly affect another State. Requires State implementation plans to establish procedures for adequate consultation with local and regional governmental entities. Authorizes delegation of functions to units of local government by the Administrator under applicable implementation plan provisions. Directs the Administrator to conduct continuing evaluations of potential shifts or losses of unemployment which may be caused by air pollution control measures. Requires investigations of such specific instances upon written requests to the Administrator by affected employees. Establishes additional procedures for promulgation of rules and regulations under the Act. Establishes guidelines for judicial review of administrative actions under the Act. Prohibits discharge or discrimination against employees who participate in proceedings under the Act. Requires the Administrator to consult with State agencies prior to inspection and monitoring of stationary sources, except where the Administrator has reason to believe that information contained in such notice may be used to inform the stationary source about such proposed action. Requires consultation with States and localities prior to Federal actions to alleviate air pollution emergencies. Imposes criminal penalties of up to $5,000 per day for willful violations of such emergency orders. Directs the Administrator to establish procedures for abatement of interstate air pollution. Establishes a Task Force on Environmental Cancer and Heart and Lung Disease to coordinate research control efforts with respect to human cancer and heart and lung disease that is associated with environmental pollution. Directs the Administrator, in cooperation with the National Academy of Sciences, to study the problems associated with fine particulate matter. Directs the Administrator to establish a uniform, nation-wide air quality monitoring system. Directs the Council on Environmental Quality to assess the feasibility of utilizing economic measures to supplement or replace regulatory controls imposed by the Act. Requires that State implementation plans prohibit sources utilizing intermittent control systems to meet delayed compliance interim requirements from temporarily reducing the pay of any employee as result of the use of such system. Establishes procedures for Congressional review and disapproval of regulations prescribed by the Administrator under the Act. Directs the Administrator to make recommendations for simplification of administration of the Act. Requires State implementational plans to prohibit conflicts of interest in State regulatory agencies in accordance with regulations promulgated by the Administrator. Requires that such regulations provide for (1) disclosure of known financial interests and (2) prohibitions against employees, officials, stockholders, or persons otherwise associated with major air pollution sources or their trade associations from serving as officers or employees of State or local air pollution control regulatory authorities.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Comprehensive Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act - Title I: Domestic Oil Pollution Liability, Compensation, and Fund - Establishes in the Treasury of the United States a fund for the purpose of paying for otherwise uncompensated losses resulting from oil pollution. Enumerates the sources of monies to be deposited in such fund, including a fee, not to exceed three cents per barrel of oil, imposed upon owners of facilities receiving oil. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to issue obligations to the Secretary of the Treasury at times when fund assets are insufficient to meet fund liabilities. Lists the types of injuries which may be compensated under this Act and the potential claimants who have standing to assert claims involving each such type of damage. Imposes joint, several, and strict liability on the owners and operators of each pollution source. Specifies liability limits, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, for ships and other vessels. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish limits on the liability of classes of facilities used for transporting, producing, processing, storing, or transferring oil. Requires the owner or operator (1) of any such facility or (2) any ship which uses such facility or navigable waters of the United States to establish and maintain evidence of financial responsibility in an amount sufficient to satisfy applicable liability limits. Directs the person in charge of a vessel or facility to immediately notify the Secretary of Transportation of any pollution incident in which the vessel or facility is involved. Specifies procedures whereby the Secretary may, in the absence of such an admission, designate and advertise pollution sources. Directs the Secretary, in instances in which (1) the owner and operator of a vessel or facility designated by the Secretary deny such vessel's or facility's involvement; (2) the source of the discharge is a public vessel; or (3) the Secretary is unable to designate the pollution source to advertise procedures for presenting claims directly to the fund. Requires all other claims, with limited exceptions, to be initially presented to the owner or operator or to such persons' guarantor. Permits claimants to either present a claim to the fund or to bring an action in an appropriate United States district court when an owner or operator and a guarantor deny liability or fail to settle the claim within a specified period. Sets forth procedures for the disposition and appeal of claims submitted to the fund. Requires both the plaintiff and the defendant in a court action brought against an owner, operator, or guarantor to forward copies of all pleadings to the fund. Permits the fund to intervene in such actions. Subrogates any person or governmental entity, including the fund, paying compensation to all the claimant's claims and rights under this Act. Specifies procedures for and the measure of recovery in actions brought by the fund against owners, operators, or guarantors of alleged pollution sources. Declares that the rights and remedies under this Act shall be exclusive with respect to economic loss caused by oil pollution. Sets penalties for persons failing to comply with specified provisions in this Act. Title II: Effective Dates; Conforming Amendments; Severability - Specifies the effective date of this Act. Amends specified laws, including the Deepwater Port Act of 1974 and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, to conform with the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Amends the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 to require Federal agencies to set forth specific environmental impact findings which shall be subject to review in appropriate Federal circuit court of appeals in accordance with prescribed criteria.
United States · United States Congress · 6 April 1977
Sludge Management Act - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to study the environmental, health, and economic effects of subsurface landfilling sludge on soils and ground water, and alternate methods of sludge disposal. Directs the Administrator to develop guidelines for sludge disposal and land-spreading in order to protect the public health and welfare. Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to States and localities of up to 40 percent of the cost of removal of sludge from navigable waters of the United States or any adjacent shoreline. Directs the Administrator to establish an Environmental Protection Agency Task Force on sludge removal. Authorizes the establishment of programs of training, demonstration, and surveys relating to the restoration of water quality where degraded by sludge. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to prohibit grants for treatment works, after September 30, 1976, unless the applicant demonstrates that adequate confined disposal methods will be provided.
United States · United States Congress · 4 April 1977
Mobile Source Emission Control Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to extend through model year 1979 interim standards for hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide emissions from light-duty motor vehicles. Specifies standards applicable in model years 1980 and afterwards for such pollutants. Revises the emission standard for carbon monoxide to allow emissions of up to 9.0 grams per vehicle mile. Extends until model year 1981 the current 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard for nitrogen oxide emissions from light-duty vehicles. Establishes a nitrogen oxides emissions standard of 1.0 gram per vehicle mile for model years after 1981, subject to revision or waiver by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency in accordance with prescribed procedures. Stipulates that such revisions and waivers shall not permit emissions in excess of the 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard. Directs the Administrator, the Secretary of Transportation and the Federal Energy Administration to submit separate reports to Congress regarding the consequences of such emission standards on fuel consumption. Establishes additional prohibitions and penalties for tampering with motor vehicle emission control equipment. Empowers limits in the amount of vehicle testing required of small manufacturers. Establishes procedures for review of instructions for high altitude performance adjustments for motor vehicle emission control systems by the Administrator in accordance with specified requirements. Revises warranty requirements stipulated by the Act. Specifies an 18-month or 18,000 mile warranty requirement for the useful life of motor vehicle emission control systems. Directs the Administrator to study the effects of emissions of sulfur-bearing conformed from motor vehicles and aircraft. Extends the exception for disclosure of confidential information in administrative and judicial proceedings to emission data upon a satisfactory showing to the Administrator that such data would divulge trade secrets. Requires that documentation, justifications, proposed drafts, and comments of other agencies an proposed motor vehicle emission standards be made available to the public once such standards are proposed. Establishes procedures for oral presentation of views, with opportunity for cross-examination, with respect to such standards. Authorizes direct review of alleged procedural errors in the appropriate court of appeals. Authorizes the appropriation of $200,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980, to carry out the purposes of this Act other than research, development, and demonstration activities.
United States · United States Congress · 4 April 1977
Motor Vehicle Emission Control Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to extend through model year 1979 interim standards for hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide emissions from light-duty motor vehicles. Specifies standards applicable in model years 1980 and afterwards for such pollutants. Revises the emission standard for carbon monoxide to allow emissions of up to 90 grams per vehicle mile. Extends until model year 1981 the current 20 grams per vehicle mile interim standard for nitrogen oxide emissions from light-duty vehicles. Establishes a nitrogen oxides emission standard of 1.0 gram per vehicle mile for model years after 1981, subject to revision or waiver by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency in accordance with prescribed procedures. Stipulates that such revisions and waivers shall not permit emissions in excess of the 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard. Directs the Administrator, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Federal Energy Administration to submit separate reports to Congress regarding the consequences of such emission standards on fuel consumption. Establishes additional prohibitions and penalties for tampering with motor vehicle emission control equipment. Imposes limits on the amount of vehicle testing required of small manufacturers. Revises warranty requirements stipulated by the Act. Specifies an 18-month or 18,000-mile warranty requirement for the useful life of motor vehicle emission control systems. Directs the Administrator to study the effects of emissions of sulfur-bearing compounds from motor vehicles and aircraft. Extends the exception for disclosure of confidential information in administrative and judicial proceedings to emission data upon a satisfactory showing to the Administrator that such data would divulge trade secrets. Requires that documentation, justifications, proposed drafts, and comments of other agencies on proposed motor vehicle emission standards be made available to the public once such standards are proposed. Establishes procedures for oral presentation of views, with opportunity for cross-examination, with respect to such standards. Authorizes direct review of alleged procedural errors in the appropriate court of appeals. Authorizes the appropriation of $200,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980, to carry out the purposes of this Act other than research, development, and demonstration activities.
United States · United States Congress · 4 April 1977
Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to redefine the term "navigable waters" as it applies to permits for dredged or fill material as required by the Act. Allows the discharge of dredged or fill materials without a permit in waters other than navigable waters and adjacent wetlands. Authorizes the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Corps of Engineers, to enter into agreements with States to regulate the discharge of dredged or fill material in waters other than navigable waters and in wetlands other than adjacent wetlands. Exempts farming, silviculture, ranching, forestry and specified construction activities from permit requirements with respect to discharges of dredged or fill material. Stipulates that Federal projects shall be exempt only if the effects of such discharges have been assessed pursuant to the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Authorizes the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Corps of Engineers, to delegate authority over dredged and fill material in adjacent wetlands to the States.
France · Senate · 2 April 1977
United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1977
Amends the Endangered Species Act of 1973 exempt the Columbia Dam and Reservoir in Tennessee from certain prohibitions against the harming or killing of endangered or threatened species attributable to the construction of such dam.
United States · United States Congress · 31 March 1977
Ocean Dumping Amendments Act -- Amends the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 to authorize the issuance of interim permits through December 31, 1981, for ocean dumping without regard to preexisting criteria. Limits such interim authorizations to persons already engaged in dumping of similar materials prior to the enactment of the Act, and where such person has no feasible alternative for disposal other than ocean dumping. Stipulates that such interim permits shall be reviewable on an annual basis. Requires that holders of interim permits expend adequate funds for research into alternate methods of material disposal, subject to conditions specified by the Administrator of the Environmental Protections Agency. Requires applicants for permits to pay a processing fee for administrative costs directly incurred in the processing of permits. Directs the Administrator to conduct studies to reduce or eliminate the dumping of radiological, chemical, or biological warfare agents or high-level radioactive wastes into ocean waters. Repeals various authorities of the Secretary of Commerce with respect to evaluation of substantive programs of other agencies.
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1977
Comprehensive Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act - Title I: Domestic Oil Pollution Liability, Compensation, and Fund - Establishes in the Treasury of the United States a fund for the purpose of paying for otherwise uncompensated losses resulting from oil pollution. Enumerates the sources of moneys to be deposited in such fund, including a fee, not to exceed three cents per barrel of oil, imposed upon owners of facilities receiving oil. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to issue obligations to the Secretary of the Treasury at times when fund assets are insufficient to meet fund liabilities. Lists the types of injuries which may be compensated under this Act and the potential claimants who have standing to assert claims involving each such type of damage. Imposes joint, several, and strict liability on the owners and operators of each pollution source. Specifies liability limits, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, for ships and other vessels. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish limits on the liability of classes of facilities used for transporting, producing, processing, storing, or transferring oil. Requires the owner or operator: (1) of any such facility; or (2) any ship which uses such facility or navigable waters of the United States, to establish and maintain evidence of financial responsibility in an amount sufficient to satisfy applicable liability limits. Directs the person in charge of a vessel or facility to immediately notify the Secretary of Transportation of any pollution incident in which the vessel or facility is involved. Specifies procedures whereby the Secretary may, in the absence of such an admission, designate and advertise pollution sources. Directs the Secretary, in instances in which: (1) the owner and operator of a vessel or facility designated by the Secretary deny such vessel's or facility's involvement; (2) the source of the discharge is a public vessel; or (3) the Secretary is unable to designate the pollution source, to advertise procedures for presenting claims directly to the fund. Requires all other claims, with limited exceptions, to be initially presented to the owner or operator, or to such person's guarantor. Permits claimants to either present a claim to the fund or to bring an action in an appropriate United States district court when an owner or operator and a guarantor deny liability or fail to settle the claim within a specified period. Sets forth procedures for the disposition and appeal of claims submitted to the fund. Requires both the plaintiff and the defendant in a court action brought against an owner, operator, or guarantor to forward copies of all pleadings to the fund. Permits the fund to intervene in such actions. Subrogates any person or governmental entity, including the fund, paying compensation to all the claimant's claims and rights under this Act. Specifies procedures for and the measure of recovery in actions brought by the fund against owners, operators, or guarantors of alleged pollution sources. Declares that the rights and remedies under this Act shall be exclusive with respect to economic loss caused by oil pollution. Sets penalties for persons failing to comply with specified provisions in this Act. Title II: Effective Dates; Conforming Amendments; Severability - Specifies the effective date of this Act. Amends specified laws, including the Deepwater Port Act of 1974 and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, to conform with the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 30 March 1977
Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to redefine the term "navigable waters" to include only those waters capable of transporting interstate or foreign commerce shoreward to the ordinary high water mark.