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Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 28 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Grants the President item veto authority with respect to any appropriation of an appropriations bill. Requires the President to return a copy of any disapproved appropriation to the originating House of Congress which may reconsider it in the manner provided for any bill returned by the President.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 73 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 April 1997
Constitutional Amendment - States that all U.S. citizens shall have a right to a home, which right shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 75 (105th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 17 April 1997
Grants the Senate's advice and consent to the ratification of the Convention on the Prohibition of Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction, signed by the United States at Paris on January 13, 1993, including specified protocols and memorandum of understanding (Chemical Weapons Convention), subject to 33 specified conditions, including those summarized below, which shall be binding upon the President. Requires the President to certify to the Congress: (1) upon the deposit of the United States instrument of ratification (deposit), that the United States has informed all other nations that are parties to the Convention that the Senate reserves the right to give its advice and consent to ratification subject to reservations; and (2) within 240 days after deposit, that the current internal audit office of the Preparatory Commission has been expanded into an independent internal oversight office whose functions will be transferred to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons upon its establishment. Requires the President, prior to deposit and annually thereafter, to submit a report to the Congress identifying all cost-sharing arrangements with the Organization. Directs that no U.S. intelligence information be provided to the Organization or any affiliated organization unless the President certifies to the appropriate congressional committees that the Director of Central Intelligence has established and implemented procedures for protecting U.S. intelligence sources and methods from unauthorized disclosure. Requires that: (1) a U.S. representative be present at all Amendment Conferences and cast a vote on all proposed amendments; and (2) the President submit to the Senate for advice and consent any amendment to the Convention adopted by an Amendment Conference. Declares that the collapse of the "Australia Group" (the informal forum of states, chaired by Australia, whose goal is to discourage and impede chemical and biological weapons proliferation through specified means), or the substantial weakening of common Australia Group export controls and non-proliferation measures in force on the date of U.S. ratification of the Convention, would constitute a fundamental change in circumstances to U.S. ratification. Directs the President to certify to the Congress that: (1) each Australia Group member has officially communicated to the U.S. Government its understanding and agreement that export control and nonproliferation measures which the Australia Group has undertaken are fully compatible with the provisions of the Convention, and its commitment to maintain in the future such controls and measures against non-Australia Group members; and (2) the Australia Group remains a viable mechanism for limiting the spread of chemical and biological weapons-related materials and technology. Declares the primacy of the U.S. Constitution over anything in the Convention. Declares that the United States shall not accept any effort by Russia to make deposit of Russia's instrument of ratification contingent upon the United States providing financial guarantees to pay for implementation of commitments by Russia under the 1990 Bilateral Destruction Agreement or the Convention. Requires the President, prior to deposit, to certify to the Congress that: (1) the United States shall not provide certain assistance under Article X of the Convention; and (2) for any state party the government of which is not eligible for military assistance or economic support assistance of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, no assistance under Article X will be provided to the State party, with exceptions. Requires the President: (1) to notify the Congress within 30 days after determining that an officer or employee of the Organization has willfully made known in any manner or to any extent not authorized by the Convention any U.S. confidential business information and such disclosure has resulted in financial losses or damages to a U.S. person; and (2) within 270 days after such notification, to certify to the Congress that the immunity from jurisdiction of such foreign person has been waived by the Director-General of the Technical Secretariat. Requires 50 percent of the amount of each annual U.S. contribution to the regular budget of the Organization assessed pursuant to Article VIII to be withheld from disbursement if the President is unable to make such certification, until specified conditions are met. Provides for a similar withholding of contributions for breach of confidentiality involving a state party and the Organization. Directs the President, prior to deposit, to certify to the Senate that no sample collected in the United States pursuant to the Convention will be transferred for analysis to any laboratory outside U.S. territory. Limits U.S. annual assessments to the Organization to $25 million until the year 2000, except under specified circumstances. Requires the President, prior to deposit, to certify to the Congress that: (1) the United States is not restricted by the Convention in its use of riot control agents under specified circumstances; and (2) specified conditions are satisfied with respect to alternative technologies for chemical weapons destruction. Requires the President to certify to the Congress that: (1) for any challenge inspection conducted on U.S. territory pursuant to Article IX, where consent has been withheld, the U.S. National Authority will first obtain a criminal search warrant based upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and describing with particularity the place to be searched and the persons or things to be seized; and (2) for any routine inspection of a declared facility under the Convention that is conducted on an involuntary basis on U.S. territory, such Authority will obtain an administrative search warrant from a U.S. magistrate judge. Directs the President, prior to deposit, to: (1) make certain certifications to the Congress regarding Russian elimination of chemical weapons; and (2) certify to the Congress that countries which have been determined to have offensive chemical weapons programs and all other countries determined to be state sponsors of international terrorism, have ratified or otherwise acceded to the Convention. Requires the President to bar from entering U.S. territory for the purpose of conducting any activity associated with the Convention inspectors and inspection assistants who are nationals of countries designated by the Secretary of State as supporters of international terrorism or nationals of countries that have been determined by the President, in the last five years, to have violated U.S. nonproliferation law. Directs the President, prior to deposit, to certify to the Congress that: (1) the state parties have concluded an agreement amending the Convention by striking Article X and by amending Article XI to strike any provision that states or implies disapproval of trade restrictions in the field of chemical activities; (2) no provision has been added to the Convention or its annexes, and no statement has been issued by the Organization, stating or implying the right or obligation of state parties to share or facilitate the exchange among themselves of chemical weapons defense technology, chemicals, equipment, or scientific and technical information; and (3) compliance with the Convention is effectively verifiable.
Bill· HRH.R. 1383 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 April 1997
Redesignates the Department of Justice Building located at 10th Street and Constitution Avenue, N.W., in Washington, D.C., as the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building.
Bill· HRH.R. 1344 (105th)open
United States · United States Congress · 16 April 1997
Amends the Panama Canal Act of 1979 to consent to the Administrator of the Panama Canal Commission accepting an appointment by the Government of Panama to the position of Administrator of the Panama Canal Authority, for which congressional consent is required under the Constitution. Requires as a term of such consent that such Administrator serve without compensation (except for travel and entertainment expenses). Exempts such Administrator from: (1) the Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938; and (2) certain Federal conflict-of-interest provisions. Authorizes the Commission to offer and pay a transition separation incentive to a Commission employee if the Commission determines that such separation is necessary to the successful transfer of the Canal system from the United States to Panama. Requires the Commission, prior to obligating resources for such incentives, to submit to specified congressional committees a strategic plan outlining the intended use of such payments. Requires additional payments to the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund to cover early retirement expenses of such employees not currently provided for. Requires incentive payment forfeiture in the event of subsequent Government employment within five years of such payment. Directs the Commission to establish a comprehensive procurement system to be entitled the Panama Canal Acquisition Regulation, which shall mirror the principles of the Federal Acquisition Regulation and effect a smooth transfer of Canal administration from the United States to Panama. Requires such Regulation to take effect no later than January 1, 1999. Requires the establishment of a Panama Canal Board of Contract Appeals to decide: (1) any appeal from a decision of a contracting officer; and (2) all protests concerning procurement actions. Requires such Board to begin its functions no later than January 1, 1999. Provides expedited resolution procedures to be followed by the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service and the Federal Service Impasses Panel with respect to Commission labor-management and employee relations.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 72 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 16 April 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Grants the President line item veto authority with respect to appropriations bills.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 115 (105th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 16 April 1997
Calls for the resignation of President Mobutu Sese Seko of Zaire. Urges the U.S. Government to: (1) unequivocally call on Mobutu to immediately leave Zaire and withdraw from all political activity; and (2) play a leading role in the international effort in supporting the creation of a broad-based transitional government of national unity composed of all democratic forces in Zaire. Calls for the United States to: (1) continue to distance itself and its foreign policy from Mobutu and his government; and (2) work with interested African and European nations to oppose the presence in Zaire of foreign government and mercenary forces, to halt the flow of arms into the country, and to encourage the warring parties to negotiate a cease-fire leading to a lasting peace. Supports the creation in Zaire of the enabling environment necessary to conduct democratic, multi-party elections at the earliest feasible time, as well as the necessary conditions to establish the rule of law, respect for human rights, and the effective provision of humanitarian assistance.
Bill· SS. 574 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 15 April 1997
Requires, for any taxable year beginning before January 1, 1993, treating a timber industry arrangement under which up to 25 percent of a logger's compensation is treated as reimbursement for the use of the logger's chain saw as an accountable plan for purposes of Internal Revenue Code provisions relating to deductions from gross income. Makes payments under such an arrangement deductible from gross income. Waives, for one year after enactment of this Act, any law or rule of law (including res judicata) that would have prevented the application of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 1340 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 15 April 1997
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Corporate Tax and Other Provisions Subtitle A: Tax Provisions Subtitle B: Agricultural-Related Provisions Subtitle C: Other Subsidies Title II: Mineral Exploration and Development Subtitle A: Mineral Exploration and Development Subtitle B: Environmental Considerations of Mineral Exploration and Development Subtitle C: Abandoned Locatable Minerals Mine Reclamation Fund Subtitle D: Administrative and Miscellaneous Provisions Title III: Revenues Dedicated to Deficit Reduction Corporate Responsibility Act of 1997 - Title I: Corporate Tax and Other Provisions - Subtitle A: Tax Provisions - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) eliminate the exclusion of certain income of foreign sales corporations; (2) repeal alcohol fuel incentives; and (3) revise rules concerning the source of income from the sale of inventory property. Subtitle B: Agricultural-Related Provisions - Amends the Reclamation Project Act of 1939 to require the payment of the full cost for the delivery of water used for the production of surplus crops. (Sec. 112) Amends the Agricultural Trade Act of 1978 to repeal: (1) title III (Export Enhancement Program); and (2) the market promotion program provisions. (Sec. 114) Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to repeal tobacco price supports. Subtitle C: Other Subsidies - Amends the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act to eliminate the Advanced Technology Program. (Sec. 122) Amends the Tennessee Valley Authority Act of 1933 to declare that no appropriations are authorized to carry out the Act after September 30, 1997. (Sec. 123) Amends the Act commonly known as the National Forest Roads and Trails Act to prohibit: (1) the provision of effective purchaser road credits; and (2) Federal funding for any forest road principally used for logging. (Sec. 124) Prohibits the provision of Federal funds to, or for the benefit of, the International Monetary Fund, pursuant to the New Arrangements to Borrow of the International Monetary Fund. Title II: Mineral Exploration and Development - Subtitle A: Mineral Exploration and Development - Mineral Exploration and Development Act of 1997 - Sets forth guidelines for mineral exploration on public domain lands. Declares that holders of mining claims located or converted and maintained under this Act have the exclusive right of possession and use of the claimed land for mineral activities. (Sec. 205) Prescribes rules for mining claim location and use of public land surveys. Provides for administrative adjudication of conflicting claims. Mandates a specified location fee for every unpatented mining claim located after the date of enactment of this Act. (Sec. 206) Subjects existing unpatented mining claims, mill sites, and tunnel sites to the provisions of this Act ("converted mining claims"). (Sec. 207) Sets forth certain annual claim maintenance fees. Mandates that all monies received from such fees be deposited into the Abandoned Locatable Minerals Mine Reclamation Fund (established under this Act). (Sec. 208) States that failure to comply with the requirements of this Act shall be deemed conclusively to constitute forfeiture of the mining claim. (Sec. 209) Prescribes procedural guidelines for: (1) contesting a mining claim on the basis of discovery; and (2) demonstrating the continued sufficiency of a mining claim. Subtitle B: Environmental Considerations of Mineral Exploration and Development - Directs the Secretary of the Interior, and for National Forest System lands the Secretary of Agriculture (the Secretaries), to require that mineral activities on Federal lands be conducted in a manner that minimizes adverse impacts to the environment. Prescribes surface management guidelines for the granting of both an exploration and an operations permit. Requires applications for such permits to contain both an operations plan and a reclamation plan, and evidence of financial assurances. Limits an operations permit to a ten-year term (subject to renewal). (Sec. 215) Declares persons in violation of this Act ineligible for permits. Sets as a prerequisite to the issuance of any permit evidence of financial assurance payable to the United States for all lands to be affected by the mineral activities described in the permit application. (Sec. 217) Mandates that lands subject to mineral activities be restored to a condition capable of supporting their prior uses, or to other beneficial uses which conform to applicable land use plans. Sets forth reclamation standards applicable to mineral exploration. (Sec. 218) Declares that State standards for reclamation, bonding, inspection, and water or air quality which either meet or exceed Federal standards shall not be construed as inconsistent with this Act. Permits cooperative agreements between the States and the Secretary. Prohibits the Secretary from delegating authorities or responsibilities conferred under this Act to any State or its political subdivision. (Sec. 219) Requires the Secretaries, in preparing land use plans, to determine those areas deemed unsuitable for certain mineral activities. Requires withdrawal of such areas from mineral exploration and development. Subtitle C: Abandoned Locatable Minerals Mine Reclamation Fund - Establishes the Abandoned Locatable Minerals Mine Reclamation Fund (the Fund), to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior acting through the Director of the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, for the reclamation and restoration of land and water resources adversely affected by past minerals activities on certain public lands. (Sec. 233) Restricts reclamation expenditures to Federal or Indian land and water resources that traverse or are contiguous to Federal or Indian lands where such resources have been affected by past mineral activities. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 236) Subjects the production of locatable minerals (or mineral concentrates or products derived from locatable minerals) from any mining claim under this Act to a royalty scheme of eight percent of the net smelter return. Subtitle D: Administrative and Miscellaneous Provisions - Amends the Mining and Minerals Policy Act of 1970 and the National Materials and Minerals Policy Research and Development Act of 1980 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to implement minerals policy and actions to improve availability and analysis of mineral data in Federal land use decision making for National Forest System lands. (Sec. 242) Authorizes the Secretaries to establish and collect user fees to reimburse the United States for expenses incurred in administering this Act. (Sec. 243) Prescribes procedural guidelines for the publication of an application for an operations permit and the public participation requirements. (Sec. 244) Instructs the Secretaries to: (1) inspect mineral activities to ensure compliance with surface management requirements; and (2) require all operators to maintain a monitoring and evaluation system to identify compliance with them. Authorizes citizen suits to enforce compliance. (Sec. 246) Prescribes procedural guidelines for administrative and judicial review of agency actions. (Sec. 247) Sets forth enforcement guidelines and civil and criminal penalties for non-compliance. Provides transitional rules for: (1) new and preexisting claims; (2) claims that have not been converted; (3) contest proceedings; and (4) oil shale claims. (Sec. 251) Adjusts the dollar amounts established under this Act according to a certain inflation formula. (Sec. 255) Prohibits the issuance after January 4, 1995, of patents for vein, lode, placer, and mill site mining claims unless certain administrative requirements are met. (Sec. 256) Declares that the Multiple Minerals Development Act, and certain other Federal law, apply to all mining claims located or converted under this Act. (Sec. 257) Amends Federal law to subject all mineral materials deposits to disposal under the terms of the Materials Act of 1947 (eliminating the concept of uncommon varieties). Renames specified Federal law: (1) the Surface Resource Act of 1955; and (2) the Materials Act of 1947. Repeals the Building Stone Act and the Saline Placer Act. (Sec. 258) Declares this Act applicable to Federal lands that are used for beneficiation or processing activities for any mineral regardless of Federal title to the mineral. (Sec. 259) Requires recipients of funds under this Act to comply with the "Buy American Act." (Sec. 260) Expresses the sense of the Congress that such funds should be used to purchase only American-made equipment and products. (Sec. 261) Declares a person ineligible to receive any contract made with funds provided under this Act if the person has been judicially determined to have intentionally affixed a "Made in America" label to a product that is not U.S.-made. (Sec. 263) Declares that court-awarded compensation for a Federal taking under the fifth amendment of the Constitution shall be paid from the Fund. (Sec. 264) Directs the Secretary of the Interior to report annually to the Congress on the percentage of each mining claim held by a foreign firm. Title III: Revenues Dedicated to Deficit Reduction - Prohibits any changes in revenues or direct spending resulting from the enactment of this Act from being counted for purposes of specified provisions of the Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 71 (105th)open
United States · United States Congress · 15 April 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Grants victims of violent crimes or crimes for which the defendant can be imprisoned for longer than one year the right: (1) to notice of, and to not be excluded from, all public proceedings relating to the crime; (2) to be heard, if present, and to submit a written statement at all public proceedings (and non-public parole proceedings to the extent the convicted offender is afforded such rights) relating to the crime to determine a release from custody, an acceptance of a negotiated plea, or a sentence; (3) to notice of any release or escape from custody relating to the crime; (4) to seek relief from an unreasonable delay of the final disposition of the proceedings relating to the crime; (5) to an order of restitution from the convicted offender; (6) to consideration for the victim's safety in determining any release from custody; and (7) to notice of the rights established by this amendment. Grants the victim standing to assert such rights. Grants power to the Congress and the States to enforce this amendment.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 113 (105th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 14 April 1997
Sets forth the rule (modified closed) for the consideration of H.J. Res. 62 (Constitutional Amendment proposing tax limitations).
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 69 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits Federal outlays from exceeding receipts for any fiscal year, unless three fifths of each House of Congress, and the President, or two thirds of each House of Congress in the event of the President's veto, provide by law for a specific excess of outlays over receipts. Sets as a permanent limit on the Federal public debt the amount of such debt as of the first day of the second fiscal year beginning after the ratification of this article. Prohibits any increase in such amount unless provided by law enacted in the same manner as a specific excess of outlays over receipts. Requires the President to propose a balanced budget before each fiscal year. Declares that failure to do so shall disempower the President to veto the budget resolution approved by the Congress for that fiscal year. Excludes from total receipts those derived from net borrowing, and from total outlays those for repayment of debt principal. States that the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund, the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund, and the Land and Water Conservation Fund shall not be counted as receipts or outlays. Makes this article effective as of FY 2010.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 70 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Provides that three years after ratification of this amendment: (1) the 16th amendment to the U.S. Constitution is repealed; and (2) the Congress shall have no power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, except in time of war declared by the Congress.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 68 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 April 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Declares that nothing in the Constitution shall be construed to prohibit individual prayer in public schools or to prohibit public school officials from including voluntary prayer in official school ceremonies and meetings. Prohibits the United States or any State from prescribing the content of any such prayer.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 54 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1997
Recognizes the anniversary of the declaration of the independent Republic of Belarus. Calls for the U.S. Government to press the Government of President Lukashenka to: (1) abide by the provisions of the Helsinki Accords and the Constitution of the Republic of Belarus; (2) guarantee freedom of the press; (3) allow for the flowering of Belarusan culture; and (4) enforce the separation of powers. Calls for the Congress to join with Belarusans throughout the world in: (1) defending the statehood and democracy of Belarus; (2) sustaining the country's Constitution; and (3) preventing the loss by Belarus of its hard-won nationhood and its opportunity to survive as an equal and full-fledged member state among the sovereign nations of the world.
Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 24 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Declares that equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State on account of sex.
Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 18 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1997
Calls upon the President to urge President Lukashenka and the Government of Belarus to: (1) abide by the provisions of the Helsinki Final Act and other agreements of the Organization for the Security and Cooperation of Europe; and (2) guarantee human rights, fundamental freedom (including freedom of the press, assembly, and expression), and separation of powers. Supports the people of Belarus in: (1) maintaining independent statehood; (2) promoting the rule of law, human rights, and fundamental freedoms; and (3) assuring that Belarus has the opportunity to survive as an equal and full-fledged member-state among the sovereign nations of the world.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 66 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 March 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Declares that equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any State on account of sex.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 64 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 March 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Provides that constitutional prohibitions against ex post facto laws shall not prevent the retroactive reduction of credit granted toward a sentence of imprisonment, except for time actually served.
Law· SS. 430 (105th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 12 March 1997
New Mexico Statehood and Enabling Act Amendments of 1997 - Amends Federal law to provide for distributions from the permanent trust funds of New Mexico, including all interest, dividends, other income, and appreciation in the market value of assets of the funds to be prudently invested on a total rate of return basis, and to be made as provided in the Constitution of the State of New Mexico. Declares that the Congress consents to the amendments to the Constitution of the State of New Mexico approved by the voters of New Mexico on November 5, 1996.
Bill· SS. 432 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 March 1997
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Designation and Evaluation of Renewal Communities Title II: Tax Provisions Subtitle A: Tax Incentives for Renewal Communities Subtitle B: Charitable Contribution Credit Title III: Low-Income Educational Opportunity Scholarship Program Title IV: Additional Provisions American Community Renewal Act of 1997 - Title I: Designation and Evaluation of Renewal Communities - Renewing American Communities Act of 1997 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to create a new subchapter on renewal communities (RCs), authorizing designation of not more than 100 areas (with the first 50 being from areas which are enterprise zones or empowerment communities) as RCs if: (1) the areas have pervasive poverty, unemployment, and general distress and meet other requirements; and (2) State and local governments agree to take actions such as tax reduction, crime reduction strategies, and reducing, repealing, or not enforcing within the area certain governmental requirements such as licensing, zoning, and permits. Provides for: (1) coordination of RCs with empowerment zones and enterprise communities; and (2) interaction of the provisions of this Act with other Federal programs. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to report to the Congress concerning such designations. Title II: Tax Provisions - Subtitle A: Tax Incentives for Renewal Communities - Excludes from gross income the capital gain from an RC stock, business property, or partnership interest held more than five years. Allows a deduction to any qualified individual or other person for amounts paid in cash to a family development account for the individual's benefit. Allows account use for postsecondary education, first home purchase, business capitalization, medical expenses, and qualified rollovers. Excludes such accounts from taxation. Requires that the individual resided in an RC and was allowed an earned income credit for the preceding taxable year. Authorizes designation of not more than 25 RCs as account matching matching demonstration areas. Provides, to the extent provided in appropriations Acts, for matching contributions to accounts. Sets the commercial revitalization credit (established below) at 20 to 50 percent of the revitalization expenditures regarding a revitalization building. Increases, for an RC business, the dollar limit on expensing certain depreciable business assets. Permits a taxpayer to treat any RC environmental remediation cost as an expense which is not chargeable to capital account. Allows any cost so treated as a deduction. (Sec. 202) Provides a special work opportunity credit rule for RCs. (Sec. 203) Provides for the commercial revitalization credit. Subtitle B: Charitable Contributions Credit - Allows an individual a credit for 75 percent of the contributions (of up to $100 annually for a taxpayer) to an organization described in Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3) (charitable, etc., organizations) for which the taxpayer has done more than ten hours of volunteer service and which: (1) is primarily assisting poor individuals; (2) spends all of its resources providing services to the poor; and (3) has limited political activity. Terminates such credit after December 31, 1999. Title III : Low-Income Educational Opportunity Scholarship Program - Low-Income Educational Opportunity Act of 1997 - Requires an RC to establish and operate a Low-Income Educational Opportunity Scholarship program to: (1) provide RC families a choice of schools; and (2) provide assistance for attending public and private elementary and secondary schools, including religious schools. (Sec. 309) Requires that children attending: (1) private schools receive assistance for tuition, fees, and transportation; and (2) alternative public schools receive assistance for transportation. (Sec. 310) Sets forth school eligibility requirements. (Sec. 311) Declares that a scholarship under this title is an award of aid to a family, not to a school. Prohibits: (1) a Federal, State, or local agency taking into account Federal funds provided to a renewal community, school, or parent in determining whether to provide any other funds; and (2) deeming scholarships as parental income for Federal income tax purposes or for determining eligibility for other Federal programs. States that nothing in this title shall be construed to supersede any State law prohibiting the expenditure of public funds by sectarian schools, except that no State law may prohibit the expenditure by sectarian schools of Federal funds under this title. (Sec. 316) Requires that any constitutional challenge to the program be tried in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. Permits an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. (Sec. 317) Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: Additional Provisions - Provides for the transfer of ownership of any qualified Department of Housing and Urban Development property to the unit of local government having jurisdiction, if such unit of local government agrees to dispose such qualified property as specified, including granting to a community development corporation the right of first refusal. (Sec. 402) Amends the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) to declare that the provisions of this section apply to each program under the PHSA that makes Federal awards to prevent or treat substance abuse. Allows, notwithstanding any other provision of law, a religious organization (RO) to be an award recipient, make subawards, provide services through vouchers, or accept vouchers for providing services. Makes ROs eligible on the same basis as any other nonprofit private organization. Prohibits Federal or State: (1) discrimination against an organization on the basis that the organization has a religious character; and (2) requirements that an RO, in order to be a program participant, remove religious art, icons, scripture, or other symbols. Requires an RO to arrange for services through an alternative entity if an individual objects to the RO. Allows an RO to require a beneficiary who has elected to receive services from the organization to actively participate in religious practice, worship, and instruction. Prohibits using funds for sectarian worship or instruction, unless the beneficiary may choose where the assistance is redeemed or allocated. Declares that assistance to or on behalf of a beneficiary is aid to the beneficiary and not to the organization. Requires, if a State law or constitution would prevent the expenditure of State or local funds by ROs, that the Federal funds shall be segregated from State or other public funds. Requires, for personnel working in RO drug treatment programs, giving credit for religious education and training equivalent to credit given for secular course work. Mandates waiver of educational requirements if the RO has a record of successful drug treatment and the State or local government fails to demonstrate empirically that the educational qualifications are necessary. (Sec. 403) Amends the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 to allow the appropriate Federal financial supervisory agency, in assessing the record of a financial institution, to consider the institution's ventures with any community development organization in an RC.
Bill· HRH.R. 1051 (105th)open
United States · United States Congress · 12 March 1997
New Mexico Statehood and Enabling Act Amendments of 1997 - Amends Federal law to provide for distributions from the permanent trust funds of New Mexico, including all interest, dividends, other income, and appreciation in the market value of assets of the funds to be prudently invested on a total rate of return basis, and to be made as provided in the Constitution of the State of New Mexico. Declares that the Congress consents to the amendments to the Constitution of the State of New Mexico approved by the voters of New Mexico on November 5, 1996.
Bill· HRH.R. 1031 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 March 1997
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Designation and Evaluation of Renewal Communities Title II: Tax Provisions Subtitle A: Tax Incentives for Renewal Communities Subtitle B: Charitable Contribution Credit Title III: Low-Income Educational Opportunity Scholarship Program Title IV: Additional Provisions American Community Renewal Act of 1997 - Title I: Designation and Evaluation of Renewal Communities - Renewing American Communities Act of 1997 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to create a new subchapter on renewal communities (RCs), authorizing designation of not more than 100 areas (with the first 50 being from areas which are enterprise zones or empowerment communities) as RCs if: (1) the areas have pervasive poverty, unemployment, and general distress and meet other requirements; and (2) State and local governments agree to take actions such as tax reduction, crime reduction strategies, and reducing, repealing, or not enforcing within the area certain governmental requirements such as licensing, zoning, and permits. Provides for: (1) coordination of RCs with empowerment zones and enterprise communities; and (2) interaction of the provisions of this Act with other Federal programs. Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to report to the Congress concerning such designations. Title II: Tax Provisions - Subtitle A: Tax Incentives for Renewal Communities - Excludes from gross income the capital gain from an RC stock, business property, or partnership interest held more than five years. Allows a deduction to any qualified individual or other person for amounts paid in cash to a family development account for the individual's benefit. Allows account use for postsecondary education, first home purchase, business capitalization, medical expenses, and qualified rollovers. Excludes such accounts from taxation. Requires that the individual resided in an RC and was allowed an earned income credit for the preceding taxable year. Authorizes designation of not more than 25 RCs as account matching demonstration areas. Provides, to the extent provided in appropriations Acts, for matching contributions to accounts. Sets the commercial revitalization credit (established below) at 20 to 50 percent of the revitalization expenditures regarding a revitalization building. Increases, for an RC business, the dollar limit on expensing certain depreciable business assets. Permits a taxpayer to treat any RC environmental remediation cost as an expense which is not chargeable to capital account. Allows any cost so treated as a deduction. (Sec. 202) Provides a special work opportunity credit rule for RCs. (Sec. 203) Provides for the commercial revitalization credit. Subtitle B: Charitable Contributions Credit - Allows an individual a credit for 75 percent of the contributions (of up to $100 annually for a taxpayer) to an organization described in Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3) (charitable, etc., organizations) for which the taxpayer has done more than ten hours of volunteer service and which: (1) is primarily assisting poor individuals; (2) spends all of its resources providing services to the poor; and (3) has limited political activity. Terminates such credit after December 31, 1999. Title III : Low-Income Educational Opportunity Scholarship Program - Low-Income Educational Opportunity Act of 1997 - Requires an RC to establish and operate a Low-Income Educational Opportunity Scholarship program to: (1) provide RC families a choice of schools; and (2) provide assistance for attending public and private elementary and secondary schools, including religious schools. (Sec. 309) Requires that children attending: (1) private schools receive assistance for tuition, fees, and transportation; and (2) alternative public schools receive assistance for transportation. (Sec. 310) Sets forth school eligibility requirements. (Sec. 311) Declares that a scholarship under this title is an award of aid to a family, not to a school. Prohibits: (1) a Federal, State, or local agency taking into account Federal funds provided to a renewal community, school, or parent in determining whether to provide any other funds; and (2) deeming scholarships as parental income for Federal income tax purposes or for determining eligibility for other Federal programs. States that nothing in this title shall be construed to supersede any State law prohibiting the expenditure of public funds by sectarian schools, except that no State law may prohibit the expenditure by sectarian schools of Federal funds under this title. (Sec. 316) Requires that any constitutional challenge to the program be tried in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. Permits an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. (Sec. 317) Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: Additional Provisions - Provides for the transfer of ownership of any qualified Department of Housing and Urban Development property to the unit of local government having jurisdiction, if such unit of local government agrees to dispose such qualified property as specified, including granting to a community development corporation the right of first refusal. (Sec. 402) Amends the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) to declare that the provisions of this section apply to each program under the PHSA that makes Federal awards to prevent or treat substance abuse. Allows, notwithstanding any other provision of law, a religious organization (RO) to be an award recipient, make subawards, provide services through vouchers, or accept vouchers for providing services. Makes ROs eligible on the same basis as any other nonprofit private organization. Prohibits Federal or State: (1) discrimination against an organization on the basis that the organization has a religious character; and (2) requirements that an RO, in order to be a program participant, remove religious art, icons, scripture, or other symbols. Requires an RO to arrange for services through an alternative entity if an individual objects to the RO. Allows an RO to require a beneficiary who has elected to receive services from the organization to actively participate in religious practice, worship, and instruction. Prohibits using funds for sectarian worship or instruction, unless the beneficiary may choose where the assistance is redeemed or allocated. Declares that assistance to or on behalf of a beneficiary is aid to the beneficiary and not to the organization. Requires, if a State law or constitution would prevent the expenditure of State or local funds by ROs, that the Federal funds shall be segregated from State or other public funds. Requires, for personnel working in RO drug treatment programs, giving credit for religious education and training equivalent to credit given for secular course work. Mandates waiver of educational requirements if the RO has a record of successful drug treatment and the State or local government fails to demonstrate empirically that the educational qualifications are necessary. (Sec. 403) Amends the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 to allow the appropriate Federal financial supervisory agency, in assessing the record of a financial institution, to consider the institution's ventures with any community development organization in an RC.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 62 (105th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Requires that a bill to increase the internal revenue shall laws shall require for final adoption in each House the concurrence of two-thirds of the whole of the number of that House, unless the bill does not increase the internal revenue by more than a de minimis amount. Permits the waiver of such requirement, for up to two years, if there is a declaration of war or if the United States is engaged in a military conflict which causes an imminent and serious threat to national security and is so declared by a joint resolution which becomes law.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 63 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Requires that federal judges be reconfirmed by the Senate every 12 years.
Bill· HRH.R. 992 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1997
Tucker Act Shuffle Relief Act of 1997 - Authorizes a property owner to file a civil action to challenge the validity of any Federal agency action that adversely affects the owner's interest in private property in either the U.S. District Court or the United States Court of Federal Claims (Claims Court). Waives the sovereign immunity of the United States. Grants: (1) each court concurrent jurisdiction over both claims for monetary relief and claims seeking invalidation of any Act of Congress or any agency regulation affecting private property rights; (2) the plaintiff the election of the court in which to file a claim for relief; and (3) persons adversely affected by an agency action taken under this Act standing to challenge and seek judicial review of that action. Amends the Federal judicial code to modify the jurisdiction of the Claims Court, including to grant jurisdiction for invalidation of any Act of Congress or any regulation of an executive department that adversely affects private property rights in violation of the fifth amendment to the Constitution. Grants such Court, in cases within its jurisdiction: (1) the power to grant injunctive and declaratory relief when appropriate; and (2) ancillary jurisdiction to render judgment upon any related tort claim. Specifies provisions that apply in proceedings within such Court's jurisdiction which constitute judicial review of agency action. Repeals provisions regarding pendency of claims in other courts.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 60 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Limits citizenship at birth to persons born in the United States who have either a mother or father who is a U.S. citizen at the time of birth.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 61 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Provides that the right enumerated in the second amendment to the Constitution (to keep and bear arms) shall be construed as a right of States and not of individuals.
Bill· HRH.R. 942 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1997
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Interstate Waste Title II: Flow Control Title III: Ground Water Monitoring Title IV: State or Regional Solid Waste Plans Title V: General Provisions Title I: Interstate Waste - Interstate Transportation of Municipal Solid Waste Act of 1997 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to authorize State Governors, if requested by an affected local government, to prohibit the disposal of out-of-State municipal solid waste in landfills or incinerators subject to their jurisdiction. Permits Governors to limit the quantity of out-of-State waste received at landfills and incinerators excepted from such prohibition to an annual amount equal to or greater than the quantity received during 1993. Authorizes States that imported more than 750,000 tons of out-of-State municipal solid waste in 1993 to limit the amount of such waste received for disposal at landfills and incinerators in the importing State as follows: (1) in 1998, 95 percent of the amount exported to the State in 1993; (2) in 1999 through 2004, 95 percent of the amount exported to the State in the previous year; and (3) in 2005 and each succeeding year, 65 percent of the amount exported in 1993. Establishes limitations on waste exports to landfills or incinerators not covered by host community agreements or permits authorizing receipt of out-of-State municipal solid waste. Prohibits Governors from exercising authorities under this Act: (1) if such action would result in the violation of a host community agreement or a permit issued from the State to receive out-of-State municipal solid waste; or (2) except as otherwise provided, in a manner that would require landfills or incinerators covered by the exception to reduce the amount of out-of-State municipal solid waste received from any State to an annual quantity less than that received during 1993. Makes the authority to prohibit the disposal of out-of-State municipal solid waste inapplicable to landfills and incinerators that: (1) received documented shipments of such waste during 1993; (2) in the case of landfills, are in compliance with all applicable Federal and State laws and regulations relating to operation, design and location, leachate collection, groundwater monitoring, and financial assurance for closure and corrective action; or (3) in the case of incinerators, are in compliance with applicable requirements of the Clean Air Act and State laws and regulations relating to facility design and operations. Permits disposal of such waste at facilities that are not in compliance with applicable Federal and State laws and regulations unless disposal of waste that is generated within the State is also prohibited. Lists conditions under which host community agreements are prohibited. Authorizes States that imposed a special fee on the processing or disposal of out-of-State municipal waste on or before April 3, 1994, to continue to impose cost recovery surcharges for such activities subject to certain conditions. States conditions relating to demonstration of local or regional need under which a Governor may accept, deny, or modify an application for a municipal solid waste management facility permit. Title II: Flow Control - Municipal Solid Waste Flow Control Act of 1997 - Authorizes States and political subdivisions to exercise flow control authority for municipal solid waste and recyclable materials voluntarily relinquished by the owner or generator (recyclables), directing such waste and materials to particular waste management or recyclables facilities designated as of May 16, 1994, if: (1) the waste and recyclables are generated within the jurisdictional boundaries of the State or subdivision, determined as of May 16, 1994; (2) such authority is imposed through the adoption or execution of a law, regulation, or other legally binding provision or official act that was in effect on May 16, 1994, or was in effect prior to the issuance of an injunction or other court order based on a ruling that the law or provision violated the Commerce Clause of the Constitution, or was in effect immediately prior to suspension of the law by legislative or administrative action expressly because of such a court order; and (3) the State or political subdivision has for one or more such designated facilities, on or before May 16, 1994, presented eligible bonds for sale or executed a legally binding contract or agreement for delivery of, and payment for, a minimum quantity of waste or recyclables. Imposes identification and volume restrictions on the exercise of flow control authority to the classes or categories of materials to which such authority was applicable on May 16, 1994, or immediately before the effective date of an order described in (2), above. Sets dates for expiration of such authority. Prohibits a State or political subdivision from requiring any generator or transporter to transport, or deliver for transportation, such waste or materials to any site listed on the National Priorities List established under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, unless the generator or transporter has been indemnified by the government or the owner-operator against all liability under that Act with respect to such materials. Disqualifies facilities for exercise of flow control authority pursuant to an ordinance on the basis of specified declarations of unconstitutionality, location characteristics, and environmental regulation compliance. Imposes limitations on the use of revenues derived by a State or political subdivision from the exercise of flow control authority. Provides for the enforceability under State law of certain legally binding interim contracts. Allows a State to exercise flow control authority over solid waste if, on or before January 1, 1984, the State: (1) adopted regulations under a State law that required or directed the transportation, management, or disposal of such waste from residential, commercial, institutional, or industrial sources to specifically identified waste management facilities and applied those regulations to every political subdivision; and (2) subjected the facilities to the jurisdiction of a State public utilities commission. Allows a State or political subdivision of the State meeting the requirements of the above paragraph to exercise flow control authority over all classes and categories of solid waste that were subject to flow control by the State or subdivision on May 16, 1994, by directing it from any existing waste management facility that was designated as of such date, or any proposed facility to any other such facility, existing or proposed. Sets dates for expiration of such authority. Requires application of flow control authority to the public sector as well as the private sector. Urges that anyone engaged in recycling activities should strive to meet standards for reuse of recyclable materials. Title III: Ground Water Monitoring - Makes certain groundwater monitoring requirements inapplicable to new or existing municipal solid waste landfill units or lateral expansions of such units that dispose of fewer than 20 tons of municipal solid waste daily, based on an annual average, if: (1) there is no evidence of groundwater contamination from such units or expansions; and (2) the units or expansions serve a community that experiences an annual interruption of at least three consecutive months of surface transportation that prevents access to a regional waste management facility or that has no practicable waste management alternative and such units are located in an area that annually receives 25 inches of precipitation or less. Permits States to require monitoring of units that would otherwise be exempt if necessary to protect groundwater resources and ensure compliance with a State groundwater protection plan. Allows the State of Alaska to exempt units of Alaska Native villages or in or near small, remote Alaska villages from some or all of such requirements if such requirements would be infeasible, would not be cost-effective, or would be inappropriate because of the unit's remote location. Applies this exemption only to landfills that dispose of less than 20 tons of municipal solid waste daily. Allows the suspension of groundwater monitoring requirements if a landfill operator demonstrates that there is no potential for migration of hazardous constituents from the unit to the uppermost aquifer during the active life of the unit and the post-closure care period. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to promulgate revisions allowing States to promulgate alternate design, operating, landfill gas monitor, financial assurance, and closure requirements for landfills which receive no more than 20 tons of municipal solid waste daily, provided such requirements are sufficient to protect human health and the environment. Declares that it is the intent of this title to reinstate Environmental Protection Agency rules promulgated on October 9, 1991, regarding groundwater monitoring at municipal solid waste landfill units. Title IV: State or Regional Solid Waste Plans - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to state the finding that the Nation's improved standard of living has resulted in an increase in the amount of solid waste generated per capita, and the Nation has not given adequate consideration to solid waste reduction strategies. States as an objective of the Act (and the State and regional solid waste planning provisions in particular) the promotion of local and regional planning for effective solid waste collection and disposal and reduction of the amount generated per capita through the use of waste reduction strategies. Includes expeditious reduction and elimination of solid waste generation as a national policy. Allows a State to include in its plan provisions for establishment of a State per capita solid waste reduction goal and a program that ensures that local and regional plans are consistent with State plans developed for landfills, dumps, and regional solid waste management. Title V: General Provisions - Authorizes the Administrator to study and report to the Congress on: (1) solid waste management issues associated with increased border use resulting from implementation of the North American Free Trade Agreement; and (2) the effect on the U.S.-Canada border region of solid waste border traffic resulting from implementation of the United States-Canada Free Trade Agreement. Directs the Administrator to study and report to the Congress on the quantities of hazardous waste and sludge (including sewage sludge) being transported across State lines and the ultimate disposition of such waste and sludge.
Bill· HRH.R. 943 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1997
Municipal Solid Waste Flow Control Act of 1997 - Authorizes States and political subdivisions to exercise flow control authority for municipal solid waste and recyclable materials voluntarily relinquished by the owner or generator (recyclables), directing such waste and materials to particular waste management or recyclables facilities designated as of May 16, 1994, if: (1) the waste and recyclables are generated within the jurisdictional boundaries of the State or subdivision, determined as of May 16, 1994; (2) such authority is imposed through the adoption or execution of a law, regulation, or other legally binding provision or official act that was in effect on May 16, 1994, or was in effect prior to the issuance of an injunction or other court order based on a ruling that the law or provision violated the Commerce Clause of the Constitution, or was in effect immediately prior to suspension of the law by legislative or administrative action expressly because of such a court order; and (3) the State or political subdivision has for one or more such designated facilities, on or before May 16, 1994, presented eligible bonds for sale or executed a legally binding contract or agreement for delivery of, and payment for, a minimum quantity of waste or recyclables. Imposes identification and volume restrictions on the exercise of flow control authority to the classes or categories of materials to which such authority was applicable on May 16, 1994, or immediately before the effective date of an order described in (2), above. Sets dates for expiration of such authority. Prohibits a State or political subdivision from requiring any generator or transporter to transport, or deliver for transportation, such waste or materials to any site listed on the National Priorities List established under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, unless the generator or transporter has been indemnified by the government or the owner- operator against all liability under that Act with respect to such materials. Disqualifies facilities for exercise of flow control authority pursuant to an ordinance on the basis of specified declarations of unconstitutionality, location characteristics, and environmental regulation compliance. Imposes limitations on the use of revenues derived by a State or political subdivision from the exercise of flow control authority. Provides for the enforceability under State law of certain legally binding interim contracts. Allows a State to exercise flow control authority over solid waste if, on or before January 1, 1984, the State: (1) adopted regulations under a State law that required or directed the transportation, management, or disposal of such waste from residential, commercial, institutional, or industrial sources to specifically identified waste management facilities and applied those regulations to every political subdivision; and (2) subjected the facilities to the jurisdiction of a State public utilities commission. Allows a State or political subdivision of the State meeting the requirements of the above paragraph to exercise flow control authority over all classes and categories of solid waste that were subject to flow control by the State or subdivision on May 16, 1994, by directing it from any existing waste management facility that was designated as of such date, or any proposed facility to any other such facility, existing or proposed. Sets dates for expiration of such authority. Requires application of flow control authority to the public sector as well as the private sector. Urges that anyone engaged in recycling activities should strive to meet standards for reuse of recyclable materials.
Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 18 (105th)failed
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Grants authority to: (1) the Congress to set reasonable limits on contributions and expenditures made by, in support of, or in opposition to, a candidate for nomination or election to Federal office; (2) a State to set reasonable limits on contributions and expenditures made by, in support of, or in opposition to, a candidate for nomination or election to State or local office; and (3) the Congress to implement and enforce this amendment by legislation.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 28 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1997
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the Constitution provides that all citizens have the right to keep and bear arms and that such right supersedes the power and authority of any government.
Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 17 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits any Federal tax from being imposed for the period before the date of enactment of the tax.
Bill· HRH.R. 752 (105th)open
United States · United States Congress · 13 February 1997
Citizen's Fair Hearing Act of 1996 (sic) - Amends the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to provide that any person who satisfies the requirements of the Constitution and demonstrates having suffered or being threatened with economic or other injury resulting from a violation of such Act or a failure of the Secretary of Commerce to act in accordance with it shall be deemed to be within the zone of protected interests of such Act and shall have standing to commence a civil suit on his or her own behalf.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 54 (105th)open
United States · United States Congress · 13 February 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Declares that the Congress shall have power to prohibit the physical desecration of the U.S. flag.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 55 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 February 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Declares that nothing in the Constitution shall prohibit the inclusion of voluntary prayer in any public school program or activity. Provides that neither the United States nor any State shall prescribe the content of any such prayer.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 52 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 February 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Requires the President to transmit to the Congress, before each fiscal year, a proposed statement of receipts and outlays for such fiscal year in which outlays (except those for repayment of debt principal) are not greater than receipts (except those derived from borrowing)(a proposed balanced budget). Requires the Congress to adopt, by law, a statement of receipts and outlays for such fiscal year in which outlays are not greater than receipts (a balanced budget). Authorizes the Congress to amend, by law, that balanced budget, provided revised outlays are not greater than revised receipts. Authorizes the Congress to provide in balanced budget for a specific excess of outlays over receipts by a vote directed solely to that subject in which two-thirds of the whole number of each House agree to such excess. Requires the Congress and the President to ensure that actual outlays do not exceed the outlays set forth in such balanced budget. Prohibits any increase in the limit on the debt of the United States, unless two-thirds roll call vote of each House provides by law for such an increase. Requires any bill that increases the internal revenue (except by a de minimis amount) to receive for final adoption the concurrence of two-thirds of each House. Permits the Congress to waive the requirements of this article when: (1) a declaration of war is in effect; or (2) the United States is engaged in military conflict which causes an imminent and serious threat to national security and is so declared by a joint resolution, adopted by a majority of each House, which becomes law. Makes any increase in the internal revenue enacted under such a waiver effective for only two years. Makes the internal revenue provisions of this Article effective upon ratification, and the remaining provisions effective on the later of FY 2002 or the second fiscal year beginning after ratification.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 53 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 February 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits total outlays from exceeding total receipts, unless a three-fifths vote of both Houses authorizes a specific excess. Declares that total receipts include all receipts of the United States except those derived from borrowing or retirement trust funds. Declares that total outlays include all outlays except those for retirement trust funds or repayment of debt principal. Directs the President to submit a balanced budget. Authorizes the Congress to waive these provisions when a declaration of war is in effect. Requires roll call votes in the House and Senate under this amendment. Makes this amendment effective the second fiscal year beginning after its ratification. Declares that if there is a Federal budget deficit for the first fiscal year beginning after its ratification, then during the next five fiscal years, the annual budget deficit may not exceed specified percentages of that budget deficit for each of those years.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 51 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 February 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Repeals the 22d amendment to the Constitution (limitation on presidential terms).
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 48 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits Government outlays from exceeding receipts for any fiscal year, unless a three-fifths roll call vote of each House of Congress provides by law for a specific excess of outlays over receipts. Prohibits an increase in the limit on the U.S. public debt, unless a three-fifths roll call vote of each House provides by law for such an increase. Directs the President, before each fiscal year, to propose to the Congress a balanced budget for that fiscal year. Prohibits any bill to increase revenue from becoming law unless approved by a majority roll call vote of each House. Authorizes the Congress to waive this Article for any fiscal year in which: (1) a declaration of war is in effect; or (2) the United States is engaged in military conflict which causes an imminent and serious military threat to national security and is so declared by a joint resolution, adopted by a majority of each House, which becomes law. Includes in total receipts all Government receipts except those derived from borrowing, and includes in total outlays all Government outlays except those for repayment of debt principal. Prohibits the Federal Government, except as necessary to enforce rights of individuals under the Constitution, from imposing: (1) any obligation upon States without providing the funds necessary for compliance; or (2) conditions on grants to States unless such conditions are necessary to specify the manner in which the funds are to be expended. Requires this Article to take effect beginning with the later of FY 2002 or the second fiscal year beginning after its ratification.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 50 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits outlays for a fiscal year (except those for repayment of debt principal) from exceeding total receipts (except those derived from borrowing) for that fiscal year unless the Congress, by a three-fifths roll call vote of each House, authorizes a specific excess of outlays over receipts. Requires a three-fifths roll call vote of each House to increase the public debt. Directs the President to submit a balanced budget to the Congress. Authorizes the Congress to waive these provisions when: (1) a declaration of war is in effect; (2) the United States faces an imminent and serious military threat to national security as declared by a joint resolution which becomes law; or (3) the President certifies and Congress affirms by a joint resolution that the United States is experiencing an economic recession. Excludes from consideration as part of Government total receipts and outlays: (1) receipts derived from borrowing and outlays for repayment of debt principal; and (2) receipts and outlays for benefits and administrative expenses of the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund that provide earnings-based old-age and survivor or disability cash benefits for individuals and their dependents. Allows any enforcement or implementation legislation of the Congress to rely on estimates of outlays and receipts. Makes this article effective beginning with FY 2002 or with the second fiscal year beginning after its ratification, whichever is later.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 47 (105th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1997
Sets forth the rule (modified closed) for the consideration of H.J. Res. 2 (congressional term limits).
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 46 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits a person from serving for more than three terms in the office of U.S. Representative or more than two terms in the office of U.S. Senator. Limits any person who, upon ratification of this amendment, has held or then holds such office to two additional terms as Representative or one additional term as Senator.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 47 (105th)open
United States · United States Congress · 10 February 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Authorizes the Congress, with respect to all Federal, State, and all other elections, to adopt reasonable regulations of campaign funds expended, including contributions, to influence the outcome of elections, provided that such regulations do not impair the right of the public to a full and free discussion of all issues and do not prevent any candidate for elected office from amassing the resources necessary for effective advocacy.
Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 15 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 February 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Declares that nothing in the Constitution shall be construed to prohibit or require voluntary prayer in public schools or at public school extracurricular activities.
Bill· HRH.R. 641 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 February 1997
Right to Life Act of 1997 - States that the Congress declares that the right to life guaranteed by the Constitution is vested in each human being at fertilization.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 44 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits the United States from ever contracting any public debt except in the cases and manners provided in this article. Exempts the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund from any limitation imposed by this Article. Allows the United States to borrow money to repel invasion, suppress insurrection, or defend the United States in time of war, if the money raised is applied exclusively to the object for which the loan was authorized or to the repayment of such debt. Allows the United States to contract public debt to acquire, construct, develop, extend, enlarge, or improve land, waters, property, highways, railways, buildings, equipment, or facilities for public purposes or to make funds available for veterans' housing loans, if the President determines and the Congress concurs by a majority vote that to prevent an unacceptable reduction in economic growth that would raise unemployment or diminish family income, it is essential for the United States to provide for such needed capital investments by contracting public debt. Allows the United States to contract public debt to fund or refund the whole or any part of indebtedness incurred before this Article takes effect. Requires this article to take effect beginning with the later of FY 2002 or the second fiscal year beginning after its ratification.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 45 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Prohibits Federal outlays of operating funds from exceeding receipts to such funds for any fiscal year plus any operating fund balances carried over from previous fiscal years. Waives such prohibition: (1) when a declaration of war is in effect; (2) when the United States by law is engaged in military conflict; or (3) if economic growth has been or will be negative for two consecutive quarters. Requires the President to propose a budget in accordance with this Act. Declares that total receipts exclude those derived from net borrowing. Declares that total outlays shall exclude those for repayment of debt principal and for capital investments in physical infrastructure that provide long-term economic returns, but shall include an annual debt servicing charge. Provides that the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund shall not be counted as receipts or outlays. Requires this article to take effect beginning with the later of FY 2002 or the second fiscal year beginning after its ratification.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 42 (105th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Limits a Representative to three terms and a Senator to two. Deems: (1) a Representative who has served more than one year or a Senator who has served more than three to have served a term; and (2) a Representative or a Senator who has served one or more terms as of the ratification of this Amendment to have served one term. Allows a State, by amendment of its constitution, to provide for term limits for a Representative or Senator that are longer or shorter than the limits provided in this Amendment.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 43 (105th)open
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1997
Constitutional Amendment - Provides for the direct election of the President and the Vice-President of the United States.