Environment

Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments

United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1977

Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments - Extends through Fiscal year 1978 the authorization of appropriations for: (1) water treatment works pilot training programs; (2) the development of a system of forecasting the supply of and demand for water pollution control specialists; (3) grants for State pollution control programs; (4) scholarships, training grants and contracts in the field of water pollution control; (5) grants to designated agencies to assist in the development and operation of continuing areawide waste treatment management planning processes; (6) grants to the States for lake water improvement programs; and (7) the purposes of this Act other than those specified in (1) through (6) above. Authorizes the use of Federal grants for construction of treatment works as grants for the Federal share of construction costs of sewage collection systems which are part of the same total waste treatment system. Stipulates that the total amount of all such grants shall not exceed $2,800,000. Authorizes the use of a single grant for the combined Federal share of planning and design along with building and construction costs in the case of treatment works with an estimated total cost of $1,000,000 or less. Authorizes the use of ad valorem taxes to satisfy the user charge system requirement for applicants for treatment works grants under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Establishes procedures for allotment of construction grant funds to States in accordance with criteria established by the House Committee on Public Works and Transportation. Stipulates that allotments made subject to a limitation on obligation shall remain available until expended. Extends the provisions for Federal reimbursement of construction costs of publicly owned water treatment works to include reimbursement for works on which construction was started not later than July 1, 1973. Increases the amount of the appropriation authorized to cover such reimbursement to $2,950,000,000. Authorizes additional appropriations for waste treatment construction grants of $5,000,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 and $6,000,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978 and 1979. Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to accept certification by State water pollution control agencies as discharging the Administrator's responsibility for treatment projects within such State. Requires a finding by the Administrator that such projects will be carried out in accordance with State laws and standards at least equivalent to those established by Federal law. Stipulates that the determination of priorities with respect to categories of projects for treatment works within each State shall be made solely by the State. Authorizes the Administrator to extend from July 1, 1977, until July 1, 1982, the deadline for the achievement of effluent limitations for public treatment works. Authorizes additional extensions of deadlines until July 1, 1983, in the case of treatment works based on innovative technology. Requires submission of enforceable compliance schedules by applicants for such extension. Extends until April 1, 1975, the deadline for submission of State water quality inventory reports. Requires that such reports be revised by April 1, 1976, and kept current biennially. Directs the Administrator to submit such reports to Congress on or before October 1, 1976, and biennially thereafter. Deletes the 30-day time requirement for public hearings as required by the Act for proposed toxic and pretreatment effluent standards. Authorizes the Administrator to defer the effective date of proposed toxic effluent standards for up to three years following promulgation of such standards if the Administrator determines that compliance within one year is technologically unfeasible for a particular category of sources. Redefines 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. Establishes an emergency contingency fund to provide assistance in cases of imminent and substantial threats to the public health and welfare. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to maintain such fund with a balance of $5,000,000. Authorizes judicial review of administrative acts connected with effluent guidelines or approval of State certification. Establishes procedures for Congressional review and disapproval of rules or regulations issued under authority of the Act. Requires officers and employees of the Environmental Protection Agency to disclose all known financial interests in persons subject to the provisions of the Act. Imposes criminal penalties for knowing violations of such disclosure requirements.

A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to permit States to perform certain responsibilities.

United States · United States Congress · 22 February 1977

Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to authorize the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to accept certification by State water pollution control facilities of responsibility for treatment projects within such State. Authorizes financial assistance to State programs so certified in an amount not to exceed two percent of the Federal allotment for waste treatment works projects.

Comprehensive Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act

United States · United States Congress · 21 February 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) of 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.

Comprehensive Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 February 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) of 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.

Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments

United States · United States Congress · 17 February 1977

Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments - Extends through Fiscal year 1978 the authorization of appropriations for: (1) water treatment works pilot training programs; (2) the development of a system of forecasting the supply of and demand for water pollution control specialists; (3) grants for State pollution control programs; (4) scholarships, training grants and contracts in the field of water pollution control; (5) grants to designated agencies to assist in the development and operation of continuing areawide waste treatment management planning processes; (6) grants to the States for lake water improvement programs; and (7) the purposes of this Act other than those specified in (1) through (6) above. Authorizes the use of Federal grants for construction of treatment works as grants for the Federal share of construction costs of sewage collection systems which are part of the same total waste treatment system. Stipulates that the total amount of all such grants shall not exceed $2,800,000. Authorizes the use of a single grant for the combined Federal share of planning and design along with building and construction costs in the case of treatment works with an estimated total cost of $1,000,000 or less. Authorizes the use of ad valorem taxes to satisfy the user charge system requirement for applicants for treatment works grants under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Establishes procedures for allotment of construction grant funds to States in accordance with criteria established by the House Committee on Public Works and Transportation. Stipulates that allotments made subject to a limitation on obligation shall remain available until expended. Extends the provisions for Federal reimbursement of construction costs of publicly owned water treatment works to include reimbursement for works on which construction was started not later than July 1, 1973. Increases the amount of the appropriation authorized to cover such reimbursement to $2,950,000,000. Authorizes additional appropriations for waste treatment construction grants of $5,000,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 and $6,000,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978 and 1979. Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to accept certification by State water pollution control agencies as discharging the Administrator's responsibility for treatment projects within such State. Requires a finding by the Administrator that such projects will be carried out in accordance with State laws and standards at least equivalent to those established by Federal law. Stipulates that the determination of priorities with respect to categories of projects for treatment works within each State shall be made solely by the State. Authorizes the Administrator to extend from July 1, 1977, until July 1, 1982, the deadline for the achievement of effluent limitations for public treatment works. Authorizes additional extensions of deadlines until July 1, 1983, in the case of treatment works based on innovative technology. Requires submission of enforceable compliance schedules by applicants for such extension. Extends until April 1, 1975, the deadline for submission of State water quality inventory reports. Requires that such reports be revised by April 1, 1976, and kept current biennially. Directs the Administrator to submit such reports to Congress on or before October 1, 1976, and biennially thereafter. Deletes the 30-day time requirement for public hearings as required by the Act for proposed toxic and pretreatment effluent standards. Authorizes the Administrator to defer the effective date of proposed toxic effluent standards for up to three years following promulgation of such standards if the Administrator determines that compliance within one year is technologically unfeasible for a particular category of sources. Redefines 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. Establishes an emergency contingency fund to provide assistance in cases of imminent and substantial threats to the public health and welfare. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to maintain such fund with a balance of $5,000,000. Authorizes judicial review of administrative acts connected with effluent guidelines or approval of State certification. Establishes procedures for Congressional review and disapproval of rules or regulations issued under authority of the Act. Requires officers and employees of the Environmental Protection Agency to disclose all known financial interests in persons subject to the provisions of the Act. Imposes criminal penalties for knowing violations of such disclosure requirements.

A bill to amend the Clean Air Act to permit the granting of variances to certain powerplants which emit sulfur dioxide and which are located in areas where unemployment is high.

United States · United States Congress · 16 February 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.

Comprehensive Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 February 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.

A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to provide for a study of the effects of sewage sludge in certain waters, to provide that disposal sites for certain sewage sludge shall be moved.

United States · United States Congress · 16 February 1977

Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to study the effects of sewage sludge disposal in marine waters. Requires modification of ocean dumping permits following the completion of such study, subject to the condition that no approved ocean disposal site shall be less than 25 miles from the United States coastline. Authorizes the appropriate of $25,000,000 for grants to States and localities to meet additional costs incurred in complying with such permit modifications.

Comprehensive Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act

United States · United States Congress · 16 February 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.

A bill entitled the "Mobile Source Pollution Control Act of 1977."

United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1977

Mobile Source Pollution Control Act - Amends the Clean Air Act to postpone until model year 1980 motor vehicle emission standards which require a 90 percent reduction in emissions of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. Extends the current interim standards through model year 1978. Extends until model year 1978 the current 2.0 grams per vehicle mile interim standard for nitrogen oxides emissions from light-duty vehicles. Specifies additional emission standards applicable in model years 1979, 1980, 1981, and 1982. Establishes a system of penalties and rebates to encourage reduction of motor vehicle emissions during such model years. Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to make grants to States and localities for the implementation of transportation control plans. Stipulates that the amount of such grants shall not exceed the amount collected in emission penalties, less the amount of rebates or incentive payments under the provisions of this Act.

National Commission on Air Quality Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1977

National Commission on Air Quality Act - Amends the Clean Air Act to establish a National Commission on Air Quality to study specified subjects relating to air quality. Directs the Commission to report to the Congress the results of a study on nitrogen oxide emission controls for mobile sources by March 1, 1978. Directs the Commission to report to the Congress the results of a study on the relationship of hydrocarbons, photochemical oxidants and related pollutants, within two years of the date of enactment of this Act. Directs the Commission to report to the Congress on the results of other studies within three years of the date of enactment of this Act. Specifies that such studies shall encompass the following subjects: (1) economic technical and environmental consequences of achieving or not achieving clean air objectives; (2) alternative measures to achieve such objectives; (3) air pollutants not presently regulated; (4) research and development programs; and (5) adequacy of Federal, State and local governmental resources. Authorizes the appropriation of $17,000,000 to carry out such studies.

Mobile Source Emission Control Amendments

United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1977

Mobile Source Emission Control Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to postpone until model year 1982 motor vehicle emission standards which require a 90 percent reduction in emissions of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. Established the following interim emission standards for such pollutants: (1) for model years 1977 through 1979, 1.5 grams per vehicle mile for hydrocarbons and 15 grams per vehicle mile of carbon monoxide; and (2) for model years 1980 and 1981, 0.9 grams per vehicle mile of hydrocarbons and 9 grams per vehicle mile of carbon monoxide. Extends until model year 1981 the current 2.0 gram per vehicle mile interim standard for nitrogen oxide emissions from light-duty vehicles. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish such standards as appropriated for future model years. 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. 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 on 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 emission of sulfur-bearing compounds from motor vehicles and aircraft. Directs the Administrator to establish emission standards for air pollutants from railroad locomotives. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to make inspections to insure compliance with such standards. Prohibits States and localities from adopting different standards. Extends the exception for disclosure of confidential information in administrative and judicial procedures 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 United States 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.

National Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1977

National Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act - Establishes a National Oil Pollution Compensation Fund in the Treasury of the United States for the purpose of paying 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 involved in the transportation of 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. Imposes joint, several, and strict liability upon the owners and operators of oil pollution sources. Specifies liability limits, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, for owners and operators of vessels and facilities. Requires owners of such vessels and facilities to maintain evidence of financial responsibility in an amount sufficient to satisfy applicable liability limits. Stipulates items which shall be recoverable as damages under this Act for losses resulting from discharges of oil. Establishes procedures for the administration of claims under this Act by the Secretary of Transportation. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to act on behalf of the public as trustee of the natural resources to recover for damages to such resources and for cleanup costs. Authorizes the Attorney General to act on behalf of groups of persons damaged by oil spills. Authorizes foreign claims for damages arising within the jurisdiction of the United States. Stipulates that documents and information relating to oil spill liability and compensation shall be made available to the public within specified limits as governed by the Freedom of Information Act. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to submit annual reports to Congress on the administration of the fund. Authorizes the appropriation of the following sums for the administration of this Act: $10,000,000 for fiscal year 1978; and $5,000,000 per year for fiscal years 1979 and 1980.

Mobile Source Emission Control Amendments

United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1977

Mobile Source Emission Control Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to postpone until model year 1982 motor vehicle emission standards which require a 90 percent reduction in emissions of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. Established the following interim emission standards for such pollutants: (1) for model years 1977 through 1979, 1.5 grams per vehicle mile for hydrocarbons and 15 grams per vehicle mile of carbon monoxide; and (2) for model years 1980 and 1981, 0.9 grams per vehicle mile of hydrocarbons and 9 grams per vehicle mile of carbon monoxide. Extends until model year 1981 the current 2.0 gram per vehicle mile interim standard for nitrogen oxide emissions from light-duty vehicles. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish such standards as appropriated for future model years. 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. 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 on 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 emission of sulfur-bearing compounds from motor vehicles and aircraft. Directs the Administrator to establish emission standards for air pollutants from railroad locomotives. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to make inspections to insure compliance with such standards. Prohibits States and localities from adopting different standards. Extends the exception for disclosure of confidential information in administrative and judicial procedures 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 United States 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.

Mobile Source Emission Control Amendments

United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1977

Mobile Source Emission Control Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to postpone until model year 1982 motor vehicle emission standards which require a 90 percent reduction in emissions of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. Established the following interim emission standards for such pollutants: (1) for model years 1977 through 1979, 1.5 grams per vehicle mile for hydrocarbons and 15 grams per vehicle mile of carbon monoxide; and (2) for model years 1980 and 1981, 0.9 grams per vehicle mile of hydrocarbons and 9 grams per vehicle mile of carbon monoxide. Extends until model year 1981 the current 2.0 gram per vehicle mile interim standard for nitrogen oxide emissions from light-duty vehicles. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish such standards as appropriated for future model years. 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. 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 on 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 emission of sulfur-bearing compounds from motor vehicles and aircraft. Directs the Administrator to establish emission standards for air pollutants from railroad locomotives. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to make inspections to insure compliance with such standards. Prohibits States and localities from adopting different standards. Extends the exception for disclosure of confidential information in administrative and judicial procedures 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 United States 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.

A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act relating to the period of time for which certain funds allotted to States for the construction of treatment works shall remain available.

United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1977

Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to extend until September 30, 1978, the period of time during which funds allotted to States for the construction of treatment works shall remain available.

A bill to amend section 204 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to repeal certain grant conditions.

United States · United States Congress · 8 February 1977

Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to eliminate the requirement that industrial users pay a proportional share of construction costs for waste treatment facilities as a condition of approval of Federal grants to assist States and localities in the construction of such facilities. Requires that recipients of Federal grants made after March 1, 1973, repay to industrial users such shares of the costs as previously required by the Act.

A bill to amend the Clean Air Act, as amended.

United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1977

Amends the Clean Air Act to stipulate that nothing in such Act authorizes a requirement for high-altitude certification for motor vehicle sales to counties with population densities of less than 100 persons per square mile.

Clean Water Act of 1977

United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1977

Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments - Extends through Fiscal year 1978 the authorization of appropriations for: (1) water treatment works pilot training programs; (2) the development of a system of forecasting the supply of and demand for water pollution control specialists; (3) grants for State pollution control programs; (4) scholarships, training grants and contracts in the field of water pollution control; (5) grants to designated agencies to assist in the development and operation of continuing areawide waste treatment management planning processes; (6) grants to the States for lake water improvement programs; and (7) the purposes of this Act other than those specified in (1) through (6) above. Authorizes the use of Federal grants for construction of treatment works as grants for the Federal share of construction costs of sewage collection systems which are part of the same total waste treatment system. Stipulates that the total amount of all such grants shall not exceed $2,800,000. Authorizes the use of a single grant for the combined Federal share of planning and design along with building and construction costs in the case of treatment works with an estimated total cost of $1,000,000 or less. Authorizes the use of ad valorem taxes to satisfy the user charge system requirement for applicants for treatment works grants under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. Establishes procedures for allotment of construction grant funds to States in accordance with criteria established by the House Committee on Public Works and Transportation. Stipulates that allotments made subject to a limitation on obligation shall remain available until expended. Extends the provisions for Federal reimbursement of construction costs of publicly owned water treatment works to include reimbursement for works on which construction was started not later than July 1, 1973. Increases the amount of the appropriation authorized to cover such reimbursement to $2,950,000,000. Authorizes additional appropriations for waste treatment construction grants of $5,000,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 and $6,000,000,000 per fiscal year for fiscal years 1978 and 1979. Authorizes the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to accept certification by State water pollution control agencies as discharging the Administrator's responsibility for treatment projects within such State. Requires a finding by the Administrator that such projects will be carried out in accordance with State laws and standards at least equivalent to those established by Federal law. Stipulates that the determination of priorities with respect to categories of projects for treatment works within each State shall be made solely by the State. Authorizes the Administrator to extend from July 1, 1977, until July 1, 1982, the deadline for the achievement of effluent limitations for public treatment works. Authorizes additional extensions of deadlines until July 1, 1983, in the case of treatment works based on innovative technology. Requires submission of enforceable compliance schedules by applicants for such extension. Extends until April 1, 1975, the deadline for submission of State water quality inventory reports. Requires that such reports be revised by April 1, 1976, and kept current biennially. Directs the Administrator to submit such reports to Congress on or before October 1, 1976, and biennially thereafter. Deletes the 30-day time requirement for public hearings as required by the Act for proposed toxic and pretreatment effluent standards. Authorizes the Administrator to defer the effective date of proposed toxic effluent standards for up to three years following promulgation of such standards if the Administrator determines that compliance within one year is technologically unfeasible for a particular category of sources. Redefines 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. Establishes an emergency contingency fund to provide assistance in cases of imminent and substantial threats to the public health and welfare. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to maintain such fund with a balance of $5,000,000. Authorizes judicial review of administrative acts connected with effluent guidelines or approval of State certification. Establishes procedures for Congressional review and disapproval of rules or regulations issued under authority of the Act. Requires officers and employees of the Environmental Protection Agency to disclose all known financial interests in persons subject to the provisions of the Act. Imposes criminal penalties for knowing violations of such disclosure requirements.

Oil Spill Removal Research, Development, and Demonstration Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1977

Oil Spill Removal Research, Development, and Demonstration Act - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish an Oil Spill Removal Research, Development, and Demonstration Project to promote basic and applied research and development of oil spill control and removal technology. Directs the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to transfer similar programs to the Project from other Federal agencies, including those functions currently performed by the Coast Guard and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Stipulates that the authority granted by this Act shall terminate on September 30, 1983. Directs the Administrator to make grants to institutions of higher learning for programs relating to oil spill removal problems. Directs the Administrator to encourage participation by small business concerns in oil spill removal research through planning grants and loan guarantees. Directs the Administrator to report annually to Congress on activities undertaken pursuant to this act.

Federal Tanker Safety and Marine Anti-Pollution Act

United States · United States Congress · 7 February 1977

Federal Tanker Safety and Marine Anti-Pollution Act - Amends the Ports and Waterways Safety Act of 1972 to require compliance with mandatory vessel traffic systems established by the Coast Guard. Directs the Coast Guard to develop additional monitoring systems and technologies designed to control vessel traffic in congested areas. Requires that vessels contain specified navigational equipment. Requires that vessels be constructed in accordance with specific requirements so as to reduce the possibility of accidents and resultant damage. Establishes procedures for enforcement and inspection by the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating. Directs the Secretary to establish a coordinated program of experimentation with methods to reduce oil spill incidents and minimize damages. Imposes civil penalties for discharges of oil into the aquatic and terrestrial environment in harmful quantities upon owners and operators of vessels, offshore facilities, and licenses of deepwater ports. Imposes criminal penalties for failure to report oil spills. Imposes strict liability, within specified limits, for cleanup costs incurred in connection with oil spills. Establishes the Federal Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Administration within the Department of Transportation. Directs the Administration to establish and maintain a Federal Oil Pollution Compensation Fund. Authorizes expenditures from the Fund for: (1) administrative and personnel purposes; (2) cleanup costs resulting from oil spills caused solely by an act of war or by Government negligence; (3) other uncompensated oil spill damages; and (4) research into methods of oil spill prevention and control. Imposed a five-cent per barrel fee on owners of oil and the time of transfer to collect monies for the Fund. Requires that owners or operators of vessels and offshore facilities establish and maintain evidence of financial responsibility. Establishes procedures for adjudication of claims arising under this Act. Authorizes States to impose more stringent requirements. Authorizes the appropriation of $5,000,000 per year for fiscal years 1977, 1978, and 1979, for the Administration of this Act.

Berücksichtigung wirtschaftsschwacher Gebiete insbesondere bei Umwelt- und Gewässerschutzanlagen im angekündigten Konjunkturprogramm (G-SIG: 00040489)

Germany · German Bundestag · 4 February 1977

A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act.

United States · United States Congress · 3 February 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.

Comprehensive Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act

United States · United States Congress · 2 February 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.

A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act relating to the period of time for which certain funds allotted to States for the construction of treatment works shall remain available.

United States · United States Congress · 1 February 1977

Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to extend until September 30, 1978, the period of time during which funds allotted to States for the construction of treatment works shall remain available.

A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act relating to the period of time for which certain funds allotted to states for the construction of treatment works shall remain available.

United States · United States Congress · 1 February 1977

Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to extend until September 30, 1978, the period of time during which funds allotted to States for the construction of treatment works shall remain available.

A bill to reorganize the executive branch of the Government and increase its economy and efficiency by establishing Offices of Inspector General within the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Housing and Urban Development, the Interior, Labor and Transportation, and within the Energy Research and Development Administration, the Environment Protection Agency, General Services Administration, and the Veterans' Administration.

United States · United States Congress · 1 February 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.

A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act relating to the period of time for which certain funds allotted to States for the construction of treatment works shall remain available.

United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1977

Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to extend until September 30, 1978, the period of time during which funds allotted to States for the construction of treatment works shall remain available.

A bill to amend section 15d of the Tennessee Valley Authority Act of 1933 to provide that expenditures for pollution control facilities will be credited against required power investment return payments and repayments.

United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1977

Amends the Tennessee Valley Authority Act to allow credits against required power investment return payments for expenditures for certified pollution control facilities. Requires that pollution control facilities be certified by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency as being in compliance with applicable air and water quality standards.

A bill to amend section 204 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to authorize the use of ad valorem taxes to satisfy the user charge system requirement.

United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1977

Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to authorize the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to approve user charge systems based upon ad valorem taxation if such system results in distribution of operation and maintenance costs to user classes in proportion to the total waste water loading of treatment works by such user classes.

A bill to amend section 311(k) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to increase the authorization of appropriations for the revolving fund established to finance the removal of oil and hazardous substances discharged into navigable waters, adjoining shorelines and the contiguous zone.

United States · United States Congress · 28 January 1977

Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to increase the amount authorized to be appropriated to finance oil and hazardous substances removal activities from $35,000,000 to $60,000,000.

A bill to amend the Clean Air Act to authorize assistance to States for purposes of reducing asbestos levels in the interior of school buildings.

United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1977

Amends the Clean Air Act to authorize the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to make grants to States to defray costs incurred in reducing asbestos levels in the interior of school buildings. Stipulates that grants under this Act shall not exceed 90 percent nor be less than 75 percent of the total costs as determined by the Administrator. Requires that funds be allotted to the States on the basis of population, geographic area, and other relevant factors.

A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act relating to the period of time for which certain funds allotted to States for the construction of treatment works shall remain available.

United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1977

Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to extend until September 30, 1978, the period of time during which funds allotted to States for the construction of treatment works shall remain available.

A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act relating to the date for compliance by certain point sources with effluent limitation.

United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1977

Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to grant a one-year extension from best practicable technology effluent limitations for point sources receiving research grants for the development of new technologies where such research project was unsuccessful.

Mobile Source Emission Control Amendments

United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1977

Mobile Source Emission Control Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to postpone until model year 1982 motor vehicle emission standards which require a 90 percent reduction in emissions of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. Established the following interim emission standards for such pollutants: (1) for model years 1977 through 1979, 1.5 grams per vehicle mile for hydrocarbons and 15 grams per vehicle mile of carbon monoxide; and (2) for model years 1980 and 1981, 0.9 grams per vehicle mile of hydrocarbons and 9 grams per vehicle mile of carbon monoxide. Extends until model year 1981 the current 2.0 gram per vehicle mile interim standard for nitrogen oxide emissions from light-duty vehicles. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish such standards as appropriated for future model years. 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. 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 on 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 emission of sulfur-bearing compounds from motor vehicles and aircraft. Directs the Administrator to establish emission standards for air pollutants from railroad locomotives. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to make inspections to insure compliance with such standards. Prohibits States and localities from adopting different standards. Extends the exception for disclosure of confidential information in administrative and judicial procedures 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 United States 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.

Comprehensive Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 January 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.

Comprehensive Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act

United States · United States Congress · 24 January 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.

A bill to authorize payment of costs incurred in the alteration or replacement of certain municipal waste incinerators for the purpose of controlling air pollution.

United States · United States Congress · 24 January 1977

Amends the Clean Air Act to authorize the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to make grants to municipalities for the alteration or replacement of un-amortized municipal waste incinerators where necessary to achieve compliance with air quality standards on or before July 1, 1975. Stipulates that such grants shall be in an amount up to 90 percent of the reasonable costs to such municipalities.

A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 relating to the designation of certain areas as critical habitats of endangered and threatened species.

United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1977

Amends the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to require the filing of an environmental impact statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 upon the designation by any Federal department or agency of any areas as critical habitats of endangered or threatened species.

A bill to amend section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to prevent Federal usurpation of State water resources.

United States · United States Congress · 19 January 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.

A bill to amend the Internal Revenue code of 1954 to exempt from tax a portion of the income individuals not employed by the Federal Government who live in a State in which Federal employees receive an allowance based on living costs and conditions of environment.

United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1977

Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide an income tax exclusion for residents of Hawaii and Alaska for the same percentage of their earned income as equals the percentage of pay received by Federal employees in those States as a cost-of-living allowance. Limits the exclusion to non-Federal employees.

A bill to amend the Toxic Substances Control Act of October 11, 1976 (Public Law 94-469).

United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1977

Amends the Toxic Substances Control Act to include a representative of the Department of the Interior on the advisory committee on priority designation of chemical substances established pursuant to such Act.

Clean Air Amendments

United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1977

Clean Air Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to revise the purposes of the Act in order to encourage air quality control measures which consider total environmental, economic, and social impact. Revises requirements for State clean air implementation plans to authorize use of alternative control strategies and methods, including more cost-effective methods, of achieving national primary or secondary clean air standards. Requires that State implementation plans establish procedures to allow variances from stationary source emission controls where (1) alternative emission control strategies or limitations will meet ambient air standards for the source in question and (2) the economic and social costs of compliance with the specified emission controls are not justified by the additional economic and social benefits. Authorizes variances from new source performance standards where such controls are not justified based on a comparison of costs and benefits. Stipulates that the burden of proof to show that such costs are not justified shall be on the petitioner in such cases.

Joint resolution designating National Coaches' Day.

United States · United States Congress · 19 January 1977

Authorizes the President of the United States to designate October 1, 1977, as "National Coaches' Day."

A bill to establish a pilot program to compensate persons who suffer loss or damage from predation by endangered species.

United States · United States Congress · 17 January 1977

Directs the Secretary of the Interior to establish a pilot program to compensate persons in Minnesota for damage to livestock caused by the wild eastern timber wolf since such wolf was listed as an endangered or threatened species. Stipulates that such compensation shall be equal to the fair market value of the damaged livestock or the medical expenses incurred to restore such livestock. Limits such compensation to damage occurring between October 1, 1977, and September 30, 1981. Sets forth the formula for determination of the Federal share of such compensation. Authorizes the appropriation of $600,000 to carry out such program. Directs the Secretary to study the type and extent of damage caused by such wolf and means of reducing or eliminating such damage.

Clean Air Amendments

United States · United States Congress · 14 January 1977

Clean Air Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to stipulate that no State shall receive less than one-half of one percent of the total annual appropriation under the Act allocated to qualified State agencies. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, after consultation with other government officials, to publish guidelines for transportation planning programs. 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 particulate matter and sulfur dioxide for each class of such regions. Requires that new sources constructed in such regions utilize the best available control technology and certify that emissions from such facility will not contribute to a cumulative change in ambient air quality greater than the appropriate limits. Directs the Administrator to recommend to the Congress strategies to prevent significant deterioration by controlling pollutants other than particulates and sulfur dioxide. Authorizes the Administrator to grant extensions of up to five years for the attainment of national primary ambient standards where transportation measures are required. Details requirements for the submission of any such extension application by the Governor of the affected State. Directs the Administrator to make grants to local officials in order to assist in the development of transportation control plans for the area. Authorizes decreases in levels of such assistance if localities fail to implement conditions imposed as a result of an extension granted the region by the Administrator. Requires that States develop a satisfactory process of consultation with local governments with respect to preparation of State clean air implementation plans. Authorizes the Administrator to promulgate design or equipment standards where necessary to control emissions of hazardous air pollutants. Authorizes State enforcement action against stationary sources found in violation of compliance schedules established pursuant to this Act. Authorizes extensions of compliance dates for major emitting facilities which submit plans for compliance through application of innovative techniques or technologies. Establishes procedures to allow major emitting facilities to convert to coal in order to conserve fuel and to allow additional time to comply with clean air requirements. Authorizes the Federal Energy Administrator to establish priorities among such facilities in order to insure that facilities in regions which do not meet primary standards are provided available emission control systems. Stipulates that compliance schedules established for such facilities shall be enforceable to the same extent as other compliance schedules established under the Act. Imposes a delayed compliance penalty on any major facility which for any reason not entirely beyond the control of the owner is not in compliance with an applicable emission limitation by January 1, 1979. Stipulates that such penalty shall be incorporated into the sources's compliance schedule and that it shall amount to a monthly payment in an amount no less than the monthly equivalent of the capital costs of compliance over a normal amortization period. Prohibits the construction or modification of major emitting facilities where such facility will prevent the attainment or maintenance of a national ambient air quality standard. Establishes an exception for construction or modification at existing sites, provided the proposed facility will utilize the best available control technology and will not, in combination with existing facilities at the site, prevent reasonable progress towards the achievement of ambient air quality standards. Establishes procedures for revision of State implementation plans where it is alleged that pollutants emitted in the United States endanger the health or welfare of persons in a foreign country. Abolishes the Air Quality Advisory Board originally established by the Act. Repeals energy-related authority previously vested in the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency as it relates to stationary sources. Directs the Administrator to contract for a National Academy of Sciences study of the nature and likelihood of potential effects on the public health and welfare from the release of halocarbons into the atmosphere. Requires further studies of the effects of halocarbons on the ozone in the stratosphere. Directs the Secretary of Labor, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the National Science Foundation, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to submit reports on studies of related matters. Directs the Administrator to consider such information and promulgate final regulations for the control of halocarbon discharges no later than April 1, 1978, subject to Congressional review. Imposes civil penalties of up to $10,000 per day for violation of such regulations. Revises motor vehicle emission standards under such Act to require heavy duty vehicles manufactured in model years 1979 and afterwards to utilize the best available control technology to reduce carbon monoxide, hydrocarbon, particulate, and nitrogen oxide emissions. Revises emission standards for light duty vehicles to extend for two years from model year 1977 to 1979 the compliance date for light-duty vehicles to achieve a 90 percent reduction of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions from 1970 levels. Revises the applicable nitrogen oxides standard to require model year 1980 light duty vehicles to achieve a standard of 1.0 gram per vehicle mile. Extends the 2.0 gram per mile interim standard through model year 1979. Requires that no less than ten percent of the vehicles produced by major manufacturers during model year 1979 comply with 1980 standards. Directs the Administrator to contract for a National Academy of Sciences study of the feasibility of establishing light-duty motor vehicle emission standards imposed by this Act. Stipulates that the costs of retrofit devices to enable existing light duty vehicles to meet emission standards shall be included in the original purchase price of the vehicle. Requires the manufacturer to furnish written instructions as to the proper maintenance and use of the vehicle in accordance with regulations promulgated by the Administrator. Authorizes regions which do not meet primary ambient standards for mobile source pollutants to adopt and enforce model year 1980 motor vehicle emission standards in model year 1979. Directs the Administrator to study and report on the effects of emissions of sulfur-bearing compounds from motor vehicles and aircraft engines. Directs the Administrator to establish emission standards for air pollutants from railroad locomotives. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to make inspections to insure compliance with such standards. Prohibits States and localities from adopting different standards. Awards costs and attorneys' fees to any private party who prevails against the United States or an officer of the United States in a judicial proceeding under the Act. Prohibits discrimination against employees who participate in any proceeding under the Act. Establishes a National Commission on Air Quality to study various air pollution control objectives and alternatives and report to the Congress. Authorizes the appropriation of $17,000,000 for such study. Authorizes the appropriation of the following amounts to carry out the general provisions of the Clean Air Act: $300,000,000 for fiscal year 1976; $75,000,000 for the transition period ending September 30, 1976, and $200,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1977 and 1978. Authorizes the appropriation of $75,000,000 for grants to assist in the development of regional transportation control plans. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to study the impact on competition of warranties required by the Act. Directs the Administrator to study the feasibility of a system of penalties for emissions of nitrogen oxides.

Clean Air Act Amendments

United States · United States Congress · 14 January 1977

Clean Air Act Amendments - Amends the Clean Air Act to authorize the appropriation of $200,000,000 per year for fiscal year 1977, 1978, and 1979 to carry out the general provisions of the Act. Authorizes the appropriation of $129,223,500 for fiscal year 1977 for research, development, and demonstration. Authorizes the appropriation of $75,000,000 for fiscal years 1977 through 1979 for development of State transportation control plans. Title I: Amendments Primarily Relating to Title I of the Clean Air Act - Amends the Clean Air Act to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to provide training assistance to qualified personnel in State air pollution control agencies. Revises criteria for allocation of Federal assistance for State air pollution planning and control programs. Directs the States to classify air quality control regions, subject to modifications by the Administrator, for the purpose of transportation control planning and prevention of significant air quality deterioration. Directs the Administrator to issue information on costs, benefits, and energy requirements with respect to the establishment of air quality criteria under the Act. Directs the Administrator to publish information and guidelines on procedures and methods of transportation controls designed to reduce air pollution from mobile sources. Requires a thorough review of air quality criteria and standards by an independent scientific review committee at five-year intervals. Revises criteria for establishment of new source performance standards to require consideration of non-air quality environmental factors and energy requirements in establishing such standards. Authorizes use of alternative technological systems to achieve new source standards. Directs the Administrator to consider development of new source standards for additional categories of major stationary sources. Directs the Administrator to include additional new source standards upon application by State Governors. Authorizes the Administrator to waive new source performance standards to encourage use of technological innovations. Authorizes the Administrator to promulgate design or equipment standards, where appropriate, to control emissions of hazardous air pollutants. Authorizes States to extend compliance dates, in accordance with specified criteria, for stationary sources to January 1, 1979. Requires that major emitting sources be subject to a delayed compliance penalty in connection with the granting of such extensions. Revises provisions for assessment of civil and criminal penalties in connection with violations of implementation plan requirements and orders issued pursuant thereto. Establishes procedures for abatement of air pollution in foreign countries caused by pollutants emitted in the United States. Abolishes the Air Quality Advisory Board originally established by the Act. Repeals energy-related authority previously vested in the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency as it relates to stationary sources. Establishes procedures to allow major emitting facilities to convert to coal in order to conserve fuel and to allow additional time to comply with clean air requirements. Stipulates that Federal facilities shall not be immune or exempt from legal processes to enforce air pollution control requirements. Establishes procedures to authorize the use of supplemental controls for primary nonferrous smelters, upon application by owners or operators of such smelters, where it is demonstrated that control technology for such smelters is not adequately demonstrated to be reasonably available, considering costs, non-air quality environmental impacts, and energy requirements and where continued emissions will not violate national primary or secondary air quality standards. Stipulates that compliance schedules issued under such procedures shall not result in a postponement of applicable emission requirements beyond January 1, 1988. Directs the Administrator to review all relevant information concerning emissions of vinyl chloride, cadmium, arsenic, and polycyclic organic matter with a view to possible designation of such substances as criteria pollutants or as hazardous air pollutants. Directs the Administrator to issue criteria with a view to establishing a national ambient air quality standard for emissions of nitrogen dioxide over a period of not more than one hour. Directs the Administrator to study the effects of these substances, along with sulfates and other derivatives of nitrogen oxides. Prohibits the construction or modification of major emitting facilities which would result in violations of air quality standards unless specified requirements are met. Requires that such new or modified facilities utilize the best available control technology as defined by this Act and that such facilities comply with applicable emission limitations by January 1, 1979. Directs the Administrator to conduct an independent study, through the National Academy of Sciences, to review the necessity of indirect source review programs contained in State implementation plans. 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 pollution sources. Directs the Administrator to establish procedures for abating interstate air pollution. Directs the Administrator to contract for a National Academy of Sciences study of the nature and likelihood of potential effects on the public health and welfare from the release of substances into the stratosphere. Directs the Secretary of Labor, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the National Science Foundation, the Secretary of Agriculture, and the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to submit reports on studies of related matters. Directs the Administrator to consider such information and promulgate final regulations no later than April 1, 1978, subject to Congressional review. Imposes civil penalties of up to $10,000 per day for violation of such regulations. 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 particulate matter and sulfur dioxide for each class of such regions. Requires that newly constructed major emitting facilities in such regions utilize the best available control technology and certify that emissions from such facility will not contribute to a cumulative change in ambient air quality greater than the appropriate limits. Directs the Administrator to recommend to the Congress strategies to prevent significant deterioration by controlling pollutants other than particulates and sulfur dioxide. Directs the Administrator to convene a conference on air quality modeling within six months after the enactment of this Act and every three years thereafter. Directs the Administrator to publish guidelines and reports with respect to prevention of significant deterioration and control of photochemical oxidants on a regional or multistate basis. Authorizes the Administrator to grant extensions of up to five years for the attainment of national primary ambient standards where transportation measures are required. Details requirements for the submission of any such extension application by the Governor of the affected State. Directs the Administrator to make grants to local officials in order to assist in the development of transportation control plans for the area. Authorizes decreases in levels of such assistance if localities fail to implement conditions imposed as a result of an extension granted the region by the Administrator. Title II: Amendments Primarily Relating to Title II of the Clean Air Act - Revises emission standards for light duty motor vehicles to extend for two years from model year 1977 to 1979 the compliance date for light-duty vehicles to achieve a 90 percent reduction of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions from 1970 levels. Revises the applicable nitrogen oxides standard to require model year 1981 light duty vehicles to achieve a standard of 1.0 gram per vehicle mile. Extends the 2.0 gram per mile interim standard through model year 1980. Directs the Administrator to require submission of research and development plans by major automobile manufacturers designed to achieve such goals. Revises motor vehicle emission standards to require heavy duty vehicles manufactured in model years 1979 and afterwards to utilize the best available control technology to reduce carbon monoxide, hydrocarbon, particulate, and nitrogen oxide emissions. Establishes model year 1983 emission standards for heavy-duty vehicles which require a 75 percent reduction in nitrogen oxides emissions and a 90 percent reduction in carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions from such vehicles. Authorizes the Administrator to issue revised emission standards following public hearings and submission of a report to Congress. Directs the Administrator to study the possibility of increased use of cost-effectiveness analyses in order to achieve the purposes of this Act. Directs the Administrator to study the health effects of particulate emissions from motor vehicles. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to study the impact on competition of various warranties imposed by the Act with respect to motor vehicle emission control systems. Directs the Administrator to study the health effects of emissions of sulfur compounds from motor vehicles and aircraft. Requires that State implementation plans provide for annual inspection and maintenance of light-duty vehicles in regions where transportation control measures are refined. Directs the Administrator to establish emission standards for air pollutants from railroad locomotives. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to make inspections to insure compliance with such standards. Prohibits States and localities from adopting different standards. Title III: Amendments Primarily Relating to Title III of the Clean Air Act - Stipulates that the degree of emission limitation required under applicable State clean air implementation plans shall not be affected by stack height or any other dispersion technique. Authorizes courts to award costs of litigation, including reasonable attorney and witness fees, in judicial proceedings where review of action of the Administrator is sought. Prohibits discrimination against employees who participate in any proceeding under the Act. Establishes procedures for allocation of cost of emission control for vapor recovery with respect to mobile source fuels. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to study the effects of such requirements on independent small business marketers of gasoline. Authorizes the Administrator to exempt small, independent firms from such requirements. Directs the Administrator, in cooperation with the National Academy of Sciences, to study the hazards presented by emissions of fine particulate matter. Requires disclosure of known financial interests which might conflict with administration of the Act by employees of the Environmental Protection Agency. Directs the Administrator to prepare economic impact assessments for regulations proposed under this Act. Establishes a National Commission on Air Quality to study various air pollution control objectives and alternatives and report to the Congress. Authorizes the appropriation of $18,000,000 for such study. Directs the Administrator to study the problem of carbon monoxide intrusion into buses and sustained-use motor vehicles. Title IV: Miscellaneous Amendments - Redefines the basis of administrative standards under the Act to direct the Administrator to act where emissions cause or contribute to air pollution which may reasonably be anticipated to endanger the public health or welfare. Stipulates that rules or regulations prescribed by the Administrator under the Clean Air Act shall be subject to Congressional review. Directs the Administrator to transmit a comprehensive five-year plan of environmental research, development, and demonstration to the Congress, to be updated on an annual basis.

A bill to amend the Clean Air Act, as amended.

United States · United States Congress · 14 January 1977

Amends the Clean Air Act to postpone until model year 1979 motor vehicle emission standards which require a 90 percent reduction in emissions of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons from light-duty vehicles. Extends interim standards for such pollutants through model year 1978. Revises motor vehicle emission standards for nitrogen oxides to extend interim standards for an additional year until model year 1978. Requires vehicles manufactured in model year 1979 and thereafter to meet a more restrictive standard of 1.0 grams per vehicle mile. Authorizes the appropriation of $300,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1978, 1979, and 1980 to carry out the Clean Air Act.

A bill to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act relating to the discharge of pollutants into open ocean waters.

United States · United States Congress · 14 January 1977

Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to authorize the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to exempt publicly owned treatment works discharging into open ocean waters from certain effluent standards. Directs the Administrator to consider social, economic, and environmental costs in determining whether or not an exemption or modification of the standards is appropriate.

Comprehensive Oil Pollution Liability and Compensation Act

United States · United States Congress · 13 January 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) of 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.