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Bill· HRH.R. 3363 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1991
Individual Investment Account Act of 1991 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a deduction for amounts contributed to individual investment accounts, limited to $2,500. Allows tax-free distributions, limited to $15,000 for all taxable years, from such accounts for use in the purchase of a principal residence by a first-time homebuyer. Makes such accounts tax-exempt unless the individual engages in prohibited transactions. Adjusts dollar limitations under this Act for inflation. Allows such deduction in determining adjusted gross income. Excludes from gross income gain from the sale or exchange of property if, during the five-year period ending on the date of the sale or exchange, such property has been owned and used by the taxpayer as a principal residence for periods aggregating three years or more. Limits such exclusion to the amount paid to an individual investment account during the one-year period beginning on the date of the sale or exchange. Provides for adjusting the basis of a residence acquired through the use of an individual investment account.
Bill· HRH.R. 3348 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide a complete tax exemption (currently a 75 percent tax exemption) for bonds used to finance high-speed intercity rail facilities.
Bill· HRH.R. 3335 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 16 September 1991
Spousal Savings Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow up to a $2,000 deduction for retirement savings for an individual whose compensation is less than that of their spouse.
Bill· HRH.R. 3320 (102nd)open
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1991
Better Education for All Students Act - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to add a new title VIII, Better Education for all Students, to improve education for all students in the Nation through grants to States to restructure education systems at State and local levels. Authorizes the Secretary of Education (the Secretary) to make such grants to State educational agencies (SEAs) to enable States to reform and improve the quality of education. Requires SEAs to use such grants to: (1) develop an educational reform plan, including goals and innovations in curricular frameworks, materials, and assessment tools; and (2) implement reforms and a plan to improve the education system within the State. Sets forth application requirements. Requires SEA grant applications to cover a five-year period, and to contain specified assurances, descriptions, and other provisions. Directs the Secretary to: (1) approve applications and amendments that meet such requirements and that are of sufficient quality to meet specified objectives; and (2) give notice, technical assistance, and opportunity for a hearing before any final disapproval. Requires each State program assisted under this Act to establish a panel coordinated by the chief State school officer to develop a statewide reform plan. Sets forth requirements for various officials and entities to be represented on such panel. Sets forth requirements for State plan contents and plan development and approval procedures. Requires States with approved plans to use funds (allotted by the Secretary under this Act, and State and private funds contributed to make up the total cost of a State program) to: (1) develop and implement State goals, curricular frameworks, and assessment tools; (2) technical assistance (including information dissemination) to local educational agencies (LEAs) to carry out local plans; (3) specified authorized activities for LEAs, as appropriate; and (4) evaluation, reporting, and data collection. Requires the SEA, from the allotted program funds and within four years, to make subgrants to LEAs, provided that: (1) such SEA has a formal process for doing so; (2) one LEA in each congressional district shall receive a subgrant; and (3) the LEA with the greatest number of disadvantaged children in the State shall receive a subgrant. Requires that funds available under this Act be used to carry out the plan in a manner which ensures that all children, and especially those identified through the assessment process as not achieving satisfactorily, are afforded ample opportunity to reach local, State, and national goals. Sets forth requirements for content, development, and approval of local plans. Requires local plans to assure: (1) broad-based community participation in plan development; and (2) ongoing evaluation of plan effectiveness, including annual review and making necessary changes. Requires local plans to propose district-wide reform which includes: (1) developing a curriculum to implement the State's frameworks; (2) setting local goals; (3) identifying or developing instructional materials; (4) providing teacher and administrator training; and (5) identifying assessment instruments to measure progress toward meeting State and local goals. Requires LEAs to use such subgrant funds for district-wide reform, consistent with State and local plans. Sets forth a list of authorized activities. Authorizes appropriations to carry out this Act of FY 1992 through 2002, but prohibits any such appropriations for FY 1992 through 1994 unless the aggregate appropriation for all elementary and secondary programs which received funding in the previous fiscal year is at least equal to the appropriation for such preceding fiscal year, adjusted for inflation. Authorizes the Secretary, from such appropriation for this Act, to make annual grants to States with approved applications based upon the formula for State allotments under the chapter 1 program for education of disadvantaged children (under part A of chapter 1 of title I of ESEA). Provides for a gradually declining Federal share (from 100 percent in the first year to 33 percent in the fifth and any succeeding year) of total program costs. Requires the remaining program cost to be paid by the State from a combination of State and private sector funds. Limits the amount which may be reserved for administrative costs. Requires annual progress reports by States to the Secretary, including progress toward State goals and plans and description of proposed activities for the succeeding year. Directs the Secretary to evaluate a representative sample of such State and local reform efforts over the course of the ten-year authorization, to assess their effectiveness in improving educational performance outcomes of all children, including an examination of such activities' effects on disadvantaged students. Authorizes reservation of a portion of funds for such evaluation. Declares that nothing in this Act shall supersede State law.
Bill· HRH.R. 3330 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1991
Agricultural Trade Improvements Act of 1991 - Amends the Agricultural Reconciliation Act of 1990 to revise the date from June 30, 1992 to January 1, 1992, by which agricultural support levels shall be adjusted if the United States does not enter into an agricultural trade agreement under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. Authorizes specified related measures to become effective in crop year or fiscal year 1992, rather than 1993.
Bill· HRH.R. 3324 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for the deposit of highway-related taxes in the Highway Trust Fund. Removes provisions which required a portion of gasoline excise taxes (including diesel and special motor fuels) to be used for deficit reduction.
Bill· HRH.R. 3331 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise the definition of highly compensated employee for pension plan purposes to mean any employee who receives compensation for a year in excess of $75,000 (adjusted for inflation). Provides a uniform definition of compensation as wages and earned income. Allows an employer to treat as compensation any amount: (1) which is not includible in gross income under deferred compensation plans of State and local governments and tax-exempt organizations; or (2) which is not allowable as a deduction for retirement savings. Allows collectively-bargained (union) employees to be included in applying minimum coverage requirements.
Bill· HRH.R. 3319 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to treat as amounts realized on the sale of a residence any amounts paid by the Secretary of Defense which represent the reduction in value of the residence on account of a military base closing.
Bill· SS. 1702 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1991
Establishes the Great Falls History District Commission to prepare a plan and report to the Congress with recommendations for additional legislation on the preservation, interpretation, development, and use, by public and private entities, of the historic, cultural, and architectural resources of the Great Falls of Passaic/S.U.M. National Historic District in Paterson, New Jersey. Describes circumstances for the termination of the Commission. States that title to property of the Commission shall be in the Commission's name, but it shall not be subject to any Federal, State, or municipal taxes. Authorizes appropriation.
Bill· SS. 1701 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow small businesses which are current in their estate tax installment payments to dispute their tax claims of erroneous or illegal assessments in a U.S. District or Claims Court.
Law· HRH.R. 3291 (102nd)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1991
Title I: Fiscal Year 1992 Appropriations - District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 1992 - Appropriates funds to the District of Columbia for FY 1992 for: (1) the Federal payment to the District of Columbia; (2) the Federal contribution to retirement funds; (3) the Department of Human Services; (4) the Metropolitan Police Department; (5) public school facilities and grounds; (6) the District of Columbia General Hospital; (7) the District of Columbia Institute for Mental Health; (8) the Children's National Medical Center for a cost-shared National Child Protection Center; and (9) the George Washington University Medical Center. Requires that the specified amount contributed to the District of Columbia for the Direct Activity Purchase System (DAPS) to maintain and improve public school facilities and grounds be returned to the Treasury if the amount spent by the District out of its own funds for such purposes in FY 1991 exceeds the amount spent in FY 1992. Appropriates specified sums out of the District of Columbia general fund for the current fiscal year for: (1) governmental direction and support; (2) economic development and regulation; (3) public safety and justice; (4) public education; (5) human support services; (6) public works; (7) the Washington Convention Center Fund; (8) repayments of specified loans and interest; (9) repayment of the general fund deficit; (10) employees' optical and dental benefits; (11) capital outlay; (12) the Water and Sewer Enterprise Fund and water construction projects; (13) the Lottery and Charitable Games Enterprise Fund; and (14) the Cable Television Enterprise Fund. Requires the District of Columbia to operate and maintain a telephone hotline for Lorton-area residents to receive information concerning escapes, fires, and riots at Lorton prison. Directs the Mayor to submit a reorganization plan to the District of Columbia Council on the Department of Finance and Revenue by October 1, 1991. Sets forth certain uses of and restrictions on the expenditure of appropriations made by this Act. Prohibits the use of funds for: (1) activities which permit or encourage partisan political activities; (2) the salary of any District of Columbia government employee whose name, title, grade, salary, or work and salary history are not available for inspection by specified congressional committees and the District of Columbia Council, or whose name and salary are not available for public inspection; (3) publicity or propaganda purposes; (4) abortions, except where the life of the mother would be endangered if the fetus were carried to term; or (5) reprogramming, unless the reprogramming was approved according to specified procedures. Requires that the annual budget for the District of Columbia government for FY 1993 be transmitted to the Congress by April 15, 1992. Requires the Mayor to develop an annual plan for capital outlay borrowings. Prohibits the Mayor from: (1) borrowing funds for capital projects without the prior approval of the District of Columbia Council; or (2) using money borrowed for capital projects for operating expenses of the District of Columbia government. Directs the Mayor to submit to the D.C. Council, within 30 days after the end of the first quarter of FY 1992, the FY 1992 revenue estimates. Amends the District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act to extend, for one year, the District's authority to sell its general obligation bonds through negotiated sales. Prohibits the renewal or extension of any sole source contract with the District of Columbia government without opening that contract to the competitive bidding process, subject to exception. Requires any sequestration order under the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to be applied to each account appropriating Federal funds in this Act (rather than to the aggregate total of those accounts) which is not specifically exempted from sequestration by specified Federal law. Provides for repayment to the Federal Treasury of any amounts appropriated and paid to the District of Columbia before a sequestration order is issued, applying the sequestration percentage proportionately to each account not specifically exempted from sequestration. Requires the District of Columbia to pay interest on its quarterly payments to the United States that are made more than 60 days after its receipt of an itemized statement from the Federal Bureau of Prisons of amounts due for housing D.C. convicts in Federal penitentiaries. Excludes up to 75 officers or members of the Metropolitan Police Department who were hired before February 14, 1980, and who retire on disability before the end of 1991, from computation of the disability retirement rate for the purpose of reducing the authorized Federal payment to the District of Columbia Police Officers and Fire Fighters' Retirement Fund. Provides that if any of the 75 light duty positions that become vacant under this provision are filled they must be filled with civilian employees or filled temporarily by officers or members of the Police Department. Authorizes an entity of the District of Columbia government to accept and use a gift or donation during FY 1992 if: (1) the Mayor approves; and (2) the entity uses such gift or donation to carry out its authorized functions or duties. Requires the entity to keep accurate and detailed records of acceptance and use of any gift or donation and to make them available for audit and public inspection. Title II: Fiscal Year 1991 Supplemental District of Columbia Funds - District of Columbia Supplemental Appropriations and Rescissions Act, 1991 - Makes supplemental appropriations (including rescissions) to the District of Columbia for FY 1991 for: (1) governmental direction and support; (2) economic development and regulation; (3) public safety and justice; (4) public education; (5) public works; (6) the Washington Convention Center Fund; (7) repayment of specified loans and interest; (8) short-term borrowing; (9) employees' optical and dental benefits; (10) capital outlay; and (11) the Water and Sewer Enterprise Fund and water construction projects. Rescinds specified FY 1991 funds earmarked for human support services. Repeals specified provisions of Federal law relating to: (1) repayment by the District of Columbia of its general fund deficit; and (2) a mandate to the Mayor of the District to reduce appropriations and expenditures for supply, energy, equipment, and personal services. Requires that the annual budget for the District of Columbia government for FY 1992 be transmitted to the Congress by May 17, 1991, instead of April 15, 1991. Authorizes an entity of the District of Columbia government to accept and use a gift or donation during FY 1991 if: (1) the Mayor approves; and (2) the entity uses such gift or donation to carry out its authorized functions or duties. Directs the entity to keep accurate and detailed records of acceptance and use of any gift or donation and to make them available for audit and public inspection. Declares that appropriations made and authority granted under this title shall be deemed available for FY 1991.
Bill· HRH.R. 3302 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1991
Food Trade Modernization Act of 1991 - Title I: Marketing Loans for Wheat and Feed Grains - Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to make mandatory specified wheat and feed grain marketing loan repayment and deficiency payment provisions. Title II: Agricultural Export Programs - Amends the Agricultural Act of 1949 to consolidate the short and intermediate term direct credit sales programs. Makes specified revisions to the export credit guarantee program. Amends the Agricultural Trade Act of 1978 to expand the Commodity Credit Corporation's authority to combine such programs. Provides with regard to such programs for: (1) funding levels without fiscal year restriction; and (2) unused fund transferability. Amends the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 to broaden the program of providing agricultural commodities to emerging democracies to include subdivisions of a country.
Bill· HRH.R. 3290 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1991
Tax Relief and Economic Growth Act of 1991 - Title I: 10 Percent Reduction in Individual Income Tax Rates - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to reduce the income tax rates for all categories (from 15%, 28%, and 31% to 13.5%, 25.2%, and 27.9%, respectively). Title II: Indexing of Amount of Depreciation - Provides a depreciation deduction adjustment for tangible property (other than residential rental property and nonresidential real property) placed in service after 1991. Title III: Indexing of Certain Assets for Purposes of Determining Gain or Loss - Requires indexing, based on the gross national product deflator, of the adjusted basis of certain assets (corporate stock and tangible property that is a capital asset of property used in a trade or business) that have been held for more than one year at the time of sale or other transfer, solely for the purpose of determining gain or loss. Title IV: Provisions Related to Retirement Savings - Removes limitations on the deductibility of contributions to individual retirement plans (IRA) by active participants in employer-maintained plans, thereby restoring the IRA deduction. Increases the maximum IRA deduction and provides an inflation adjustment. Provides exemptions from the ten-percent penalty on early withdrawals from individual retirement plans for: (1) first home purchases; (2) higher education expenses; and (3) financially devastating medical expenses. Title V: 4 Percent Cap on Increases in All Domestic Spending Through 1995 - Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to revise spending limits to allow a four-percent growth rate in domestic spending from FY 1992 to 1995. Removes the discretionary authority over such spending limits and eliminates the use of maximum deficit amounts. Extends through 1995 the prohibition on the Senate from considering any appropriations bill or resolution that exceeds such spending limits. Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to provide enforcement authority for provisions of this Act and to make conforming amendments. Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to repeal authority for a pay-as-you-go reconciliation directive in the form of a concurrent resolution in the House of Representatives. Eliminates the use of the current services baseline in the President's budget, the congressional budget, and the Congressional Budget Office report to congressional committees.
Bill· HRH.R. 3310 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow small businesses which are current in their estate tax installment payments to dispute their tax claims of erroneous or illegal assessments in a U.S. District or Claims Court.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 219 (102nd)passed
United States · United States Congress · 11 September 1991
Sets forth the rule for the consideration of H.R. 2967 (Older Americans Act reauthorization).
Bill· SS. 1693 (102nd)open
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Private Long-Term Care Insurance Act of 1991 - Title I: Tax Treatment of Long-Term Care - Subtitle A: General Provisions - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an individual itemized deduction for qualified long-term care services. Defines such services as necessary diagnostic, preventive, therapeutic, and rehabilitative services, and maintenance and personal care services which: (1) are required by a chronically ill individual; (2) have as their primary purpose the provision of needed assistance with daily living activities which the individual is certified as being unable to perform; and (3) are provided pursuant to a continuing plan of care prescribed by a licensed health practitioner. Provides for: (1) long-term care insurance contracts to be treated as accident or health insurance contracts; (2) amounts received under such contracts with respect to qualified long-term care services to be treated as amounts received for personal injuries or sickness; (3) employer plans providing such services to be treated as an accident or health plan; and (4) per diem and other periodic payments to be treated as payments made with respect to qualified long-term care services, with specified limitations. Declares that a qualified long-term care insurance contract is one in which the only insurance protection provided is coverage of qualified long-term care services. Prohibits borrowing under such contract and its assignment or pledging as collateral for a loan. Prohibits such contract from covering expenses to the extent that such expenses are reimbursable under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act. Provides for the tax treatment of policyholders based on dollar limitations on per diem and other periodic payments. Makes the continuation coverage excise tax inapplicable to qualified long-term care insurance contracts or plans of employers that provide such coverage. Subtitle B: Consumer Protection Provisions - Sets forth specified consumer protection provisions to be satisifed by qualified long-term Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). Imposes an excise tax of $5,000 on any person who fails to meet specified requirements for such contracts with respect to: (1) regulation of sales practices; (2) model Act provisions; and (3) disclosure. Requires NAIC to promulgate standards for the use of uniform language and definitions in long-term care insurance policies by January 1, 1993. Title II: Treatment of Accelerated Death Benefits - Provides for the treatment of amounts paid to a terminally ill individual as death benefits. Allows insurance companies to issue such accelerated death benefit riders on life insurance contracts. Requires spousal consent for such treatment and riders. Amends title XI of the Social Security Act to prohibit applicants or recipients under public assistance programs from being required to make an election respecting accelerated death benefits under life insurance policies.
Bill· SS. 1669 (102nd)open
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Improvements to the HealthAmerica Act of 1991 - Title I: Cost Containment - Subtitle A: Federal Health Expenditure Board - Amends the Public Health Service Act to establish as an independent agency in the executive branch the Federal Health Expenditure Board. Amends the Public Health Service Act and, using similar language, the Social Security Act to require the Board to take specified actions, including: (1) developing national health care expenditure, access, and quality goals; (2) convening and overseeing negotiations between providers and purchasers to develop payment rates regarding those expenditure goals; (3) establishing payment levels and other measures to achieve the goals; (4) establishing measures for the allocation of capital; (5) developing State and regional goals; (6) establishing uniform billing and claim forms and mandatory reporting requirements; and (7) recommending rates, budgets, and other measures. Mandates that the Board require negotiations regarding physician, hospital care, and pharmaceutical products. Allows the Board to require negotiations concerning other health care sectors. Declares that the Board shall determine which individuals, organizations, and institutions are eligible for representation by negotiators. Sets forth procedures and requirements regarding approval of an organization or individual as a negotiator. Sets forth requirements regarding payment systems adopted for hospitals or physicians. Requires the Board, when negotiators for a sector fail to reach an agreement, to promulgate regulations recommending advisory rates and other measures to achieve the goals. Imposes a civil monetary penalty on a provider assessing or a purchaser paying rates other than those required. Provides for temporary injunctive relief. Requires the Board to recommend rates for all Federal programs that reimburse providers on a fee, charge, or cost basis or charge third-party providers on such basis. Exempts from that requirement: (1) with regard to the amendments to the Public Health Service Act, programs under titles XVIII (Medicare), XIX, (Medicaid), or XXI (AmeriCare) of the Social Security Act; and (2) with regard to the amendments to the Social Security Act, programs under such title XVIII. Allows a State consortium, with the approval of the Board, to establish an alternative payment system, rates, and methods for achieving Board goals. Requires the Board to establish a system of uniform billing and reporting to enable the Board to determine the progress in meeting the goals, enable providers and purchasers to provide and obtain efficiently provided care, and reduce administrative costs of the health care system. Directs the Secretary to develop and implement methodologies that will measure the effectiveness of the health care service provided by health care providers. Amends Federal law to add members of the Board to the list of positions paid at levels III and IV of the Executive Schedule. Amends the Social Security Act to require the Board to make recommendations regarding hospital and physician services. Subtitle B: State Purchasing Consortia - Amends the Public Health Service Act to mandate establishment in each State of a consortium open to all providers and purchasers of health insurance and health care in the State. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to make a grant to each State for establishment and initial operation of the consortium. Amends the Public Health Service Act and, using similar language, the Social Security Act to list optional consortium functions, including: (1) permitting or requiring insurers with a large market share in a State to participate in the consortium; and (2) convening negotiations with providers, purchasers, and others on service availability, coverage and reimbursement levels, and claim submission and payment procedures. Exempts such negotiations, if authorized by the State, from Federal anti-trust laws. Sets forth the mandatory consortium functions, including: (1) enrolling all small share health insurance companies in the State as consortium members; (2) establishing a claim payment fund and payment procedures, with the fund to be capitalized through public and private contributions and assessments by the consortium on such enrollees; (3) developing and using uniform billing and claim forms and procedures consistent with subtitle A of this title; and (4) attempting to reduce administrative costs and burdens on enrollees and providers through specified measures. Declares that the Consumer Product Safety Act and other Federal consumer protection laws apply to the mandatory consortium functions. Allows States to enter into an agreement for the establishment of a regional consortium. Declares that a State that fails to comply with the requirements regarding consortia shall be ineligible: (1) with regard to the amendments to the Public Health Service Act, to receive assistance under that Act; and (2) with regard to the amendments to the Social Security Act, to receive payments to States under specified provisions of that Act. Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize appropriations to carry out provisions relating to the consortia. Title II: State Single Payer Option - Authorizes a State to establish a universal health care system for its residents, supported by revenues generated from State tax assessments, if the system provides for universal health care coverage for all State residents at least as comprehensive as the coverage required by this Act and its amendments. Provides for matching Federal contributions in an amount equal to what the Federal contributions would have been had the State established an AmeriCare program under the HealthAmerica Act. Requires a State establishing a State system to establish a cost containment program approved by the Board. Authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services such sums as necessary to make three-year grants to two States establishing such a system. Title III: Coverage of Early Retirees, Strikers and Individuals Whose Employers' Businesses Have Failed - Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, subject to changes to finance this provision, to promulgate regulations to expand coverage under Medicare to provide full coverage to retired individuals at a younger age than currently covered. Requires that early retirees who are not eligible for Medicare, individuals on strike, and individuals who are unemployed as a result of the failure of their previous employer's business be eligible for coverage under the AmeriCare program in the State of their residence. Provides for premiums and cost sharing. Title IV: Accelerated Implementation of Certain Provisions - Requires that the requirements of specified provisions of the HealthAmerica Act and their amendments apply to all employers on January 1 of the second full year after enactment of this Act. Title V: Insurance Reform - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to declare that certain provisions of ERISA supersede any State law relating to benefits under provisions of the Public Health Service Act added by title I of this Act. Includes benefit plans under that title in the ERISA definitions of "employee welfare benefit plan" and "welfare plan." Amends the Public Health Service Act to prohibit issuing a health benefit plan in a State, or offering a new contract under such a plan with respect to a small employer (defined as having fewer than 100 employees), unless the plan meets certain standards under this Act. Provides for: (1) complaints by individuals and entities respecting potential violations of certain requirements; (2) investigations and related procedures; and (3) enforcement, including cease and desist orders, civil monetary penalties, and orders to take other corrective action. Requires penalties collected to be credited to the AmeriCare Trust Fund. Directs the Secretary to develop standards to implement requirements of these provisions. Requires establishment of a toll-free telephone number to: (1) handle consumer complaints or inquiries; and (2) provide information to small employers and consumers about carriers that offer plans in the area. Mandates periodic audits of State regulatory programs by the Comptroller General to determine compliance with these provisions. Requires carriers offering a plan to small employers to offer the same plan to any other small employer in the community. Allows: (1) health maintenance organizations (HMOs) to have geographic and size limitations; and (2) carriers to require participation by a minimum percentage of employees. Requires, at the option of the business, plan renewability under the same terms as for issuance, except for rates and administrative changes. Regulates rate changes. Requires premiums for plans offered to small employers to be based on a single cohesive rating system applied consistently for all small employer groups and designed not to treat groups, after the fourth year after enactment of this Act, differently based on health or risk status. Requires the lowest rate for plans with similar benefits within a block of business to be the same for all small employers. Limits the percentage by which the premium rate for the most expensive block of business may exceed the rate for the least expensive block of business. Allows limited variation in premium rates for: (1) different age and gender groups; and (2) employers who elect, under provisions of this Act, reimbursement under Medicare. Requires plans offered to small employers to permit enrollment and compute premiums based on four specified beneficiary classes. Requires plans offered to small employers to: (1) cover all basic health services specified in certain provisions; and (2) not impose cost-sharing in excess of that permitted by those provisions. Requires the carrier, except HMOs, to offer to the small employer a plan that only provides basic services and maximum cost-sharing. Requires a carrier (other than an HMO or a reinsurance carrier) which offers a managed care plan to an employer that is not a small employer to make a managed care plan available to small employers in the same community. Requires the Secretary to develop a model to standardize benefits offered to small employers to promote consumer understanding and comparison among plans. Sets forth miscellaneous disclosure and recordkeeping requirements for health benefit plans offered to small employers. Requires each small business insurer to offer certain types of plans. Allows each such insurer to offer additional types. Directs the Secretary to publish a description of the plans offered in each State to facilitate comparison. Requires: (1) the description to include an enrollment form; and (2) insurers to enroll eligible persons submitting that form.
Bill· SS. 1681 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Amends title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) (OASDI) of the Social Security Act to explicitly prohibit State or local governments from taxing OASDI benefits.
Bill· SS. 1654 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for determining whether a controlled foreign corporation is a passive foreign investment company for capital gains and losses purposes.
Bill· SS. 1653 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code with regard to foreign base company income to provide a special rule for U.S.-owned businesses operating in the European Community (which includes Belgium, Denmark, France, Greece, the Irish Republic, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, the Federal Republic of Germany, and the United Kingdom).
Bill· SS. 1645 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Income-Dependent Education Assistance Act of 1991 - Establishes the income-dependent education assistance (IDEA) program of supplemental direct higher education student loans in which a borrower's annual repayment obligation is dependent upon both postschool income level and borrowing history. Title I: System for Making Income-Dependent Education Assistance Loans - Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to: (1) make IDEA loans to eligible students in accordance with this title; and (2) establish an account for each IDEA loan borrower and collect repayments on such loans using the income tax collection system under specified Internal Revenue Code provisions added by title II of this Act. Sets forth provisions for the terms and enforcement of IDEA program agreements between the Secretary of Education and eligible institutions. Sets forth provisions for the amounts and terms of IDEA loans. Sets annual limits on the amounts of such loans to various categories of students. Sets a limitation on individual borrowing capacity, with adjustments for inflation and with consideration of any outstanding student loan obligations. Limits the duration of individual eligibility for such loans. Sets forth requirements for: (1) agreements to the terms of such loans; and (2) disbursement of the proceeds of such loans. Sets forth the responsibilities of eligible institutions and of the Secretary of the Treasury for certain information requirements relating to the IDEA loan program. Sets forth provisions for interest charges on such loans. Requires such charges to be added to the recipient's obligation account at the end of each calendar year. Bases such charges on an interest rate equal to the lesser of: (1) ten percent; or (2) the sum of the average bond equivalent rates of 91-day Treasury bills auctioned for the previous year, plus two percentage points, rounded to the next higher one-eighth of one percent. Provides for conversion and consolidation of certain other types of student loans as IDEA loans. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury, upon request of borrowers who have received federally insured or guaranteed loans under specified provisions of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) (Stafford loans) or of the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) (HEAL loans), to make new IDEA loans to such borrowers which are equal to the sum of the unpaid principal of those other loans and which discharge the liability on those other loans. Provides for mandatory conversion of certain defaulted student loans to IDEA loans. Requires IDEA collection treatment of any loan made, insured, or guaranteed under specified provisions of HEA or PHSA after enactment of this Act which is assigned after default for collection by the Secretary of Education or the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Directs such Secretaries to notify: (1) the Secretary of the Treasury of the need to establish or adjust an IDEA account for such loan's borrower; and (2) the borrower of the conversion of the defaulted loan to an IDEA loan and the procedures for collection under the income tax system. Terminates the authority to make additional loans under the HEA programs of supplemental loans for students (SLS) and direct loans to students in institutions of higher education, for any academic year beginning after the date regulations are prescribed by the Secretaries of Education and the Treasury to carry out this title. Directs the Secretary of Education to study and report to the Congress on the effects of the IDEA program on participating institutions' tuition rates and accrediting and licensure standards. Authorizes appropriations to: (1) make distributions of IDEA loan funds to eligible institutions; and (2) administer and carry out this title. Bases student eligibility for IDEA loans on their eligibility for student assistance under specified HEA provisions and their carrying at least one-half the normal full-time academic workload. Title II: Collection of Income-Dependent Education Assistance Loans - Amends the Internal Code to add provisions for the collection of IDEA loans. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to notify each IDEA loan borrower of their yearly repayment obligation. Sets forth formulas for computation of the annual IDEA loan repayment amount. Makes such amount equal to the lesser of: (1) 20 percent of the excess of the modified adjusted income of the taxpayer for such taxable year over the standard deduction and exemption (twice for joint returns); or (2) the product of a base amortization amount and a progressivity factor based on the taxpayer's modified adjusted gross income. Defines "base amortization amount" as the amount which, if paid at the close of each year for 12 consecutive years, would fully repay (with an eight-percent annual interest rate) the maximum account balance of the borrower. Sets forth progressivity factor tables for various types of taxpayers. Provides that, in general, the repayment obligation of an IDEA loan borrower shall terminate only if there is repaid: (1) in the case of any repayment during the first 12 years for which the borrower is in repayment status, the principal plus interest at an annual rate equal to the otherwise applicable rate plus two and one-half percent; and (2) in the case of any repayment during any subsequent year (or in the case of loans under $3,000 repaid during the first 12 years), the principal plus interest at applicable rates. Requires no repayment after 25 years in repayment status. Sets forth provisions for the determination of years in repayment status. Sets forth the requirements for payment of the amount owing. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to assess and collect any unpaid amount in the same manner as for any delay in the payment of income tax. Provides for discharge, by the Secretary of Education, of the IDEA loan liability of any borrower who dies or becomes permanently and totally disabled. Provides for crediting of amounts paid on a joint return. Sets forth formulas for computation of an alternative annual payment for individuals who have attained age 55. Provides for inflation adjustment in the computation of the progressivity factor. Provides that, in general, an IDEA loan shall not be dischargeable in a case of bankruptcy, but authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to postpone certain portions of the loan liability in such cases. Makes specified provisions relating to finality of assessment and collection applicable to such loans. Includes the amount required to be repaid for IDEA loan under amounts listed under requirements relating to failure by an individual to pay estimated income tax. Requires individuals who are obligated to make IDEA loan repayments to file income tax returns for the applicable years.
Bill· SS. 1641 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Nuclear Decommissioning Reserve Fund Act of 1991 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) decrease the rate of tax imposed on the income of any Nuclear Decommissioning Reserve Fund from 34 percent to 22 percent for taxable years beginning after December 31, 1990, and before January 1, 1993, and to 20 percent for taxable years beginning after December 31, 1992; and (2) remove restrictions on permitted investments of Fund monies.
Bill· SS. 1688 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to restore the following estate tax provisions in effect prior to enactment of the Technical and Miscellaneous Revenue Act of 1988 with respect to noncitizen international organization employees: (1) the marital deduction for decedents who are resident (domiciled) in the United States regardless of the spouse's citizenship; (2) the rule that 50 percent of jointly held property is includable in the decedent's estate, regardless of the spouse's citizenship and the source of payment for the property; and (3) the estate tax rates applied to employees who are nonresident noncitizens.
Bill· SS. 1691 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Federal Prison Industries Competition in Contracting Act - Amends the Federal criminal code to require that: (1) a decision by Federal Prison Industries (FPI) to produce a new prison-made product or to expand the production of an existing product be made by the Board of Directors of FPI (the Board) in conformance with the public notice and comment requirements of the Administrative Procedure Act; and (2) the corporation prepare and furnish to the Board a detailed analysis of the probable impact on industry and free labor of any proposal to authorize the production and sale of a new prison-made product or to expand production of a currently authorized product (such proposal). Requires such analysis to identify and consider factors including: (1) the number of vendors that currently meet Federal requirements for the specific product; (2) the proportion of the Federal market for the product currently furnished by small and disadvantaged businesses and businesses in labor surplus areas during the previous three fiscal years; (3) the share of the Federal market for the product projected for FPI for the fiscal year in which production will commence (or expand) and the subsequent three fiscal years; (4) whether the industry producing the product in the private sector has an unemployment rate higher than the national average, a rate of employment for production workers that has consistently shown an increase during the previous five years, or has an import to domestic production ratio of 25 percent or greater; (5) whether the specific product is an import-sensitive product; (6) the projected growth in the Government for the specific product and the capability of such demand to sustain both FPI and private vendors; and (7) whether authorizing the production of the new product will provide inmates with the maximum opportunity to acquire knowledge and skill in trades and occupations that will provide them with a means of earning a livelihood upon release. Bars the Board from approving such proposal if the product is: (1) produced in the private sector by an industry which has reflected during the previous year an unemployment rate above the national average; or (2) an import-sensitive product. Directs the Board to: (1) give additional notice of such proposal in a publication designed to most effectively provide notice to private vendors and labor unions representing private sector workers who could reasonably be expected to be affected by approval of such proposal; (2) solicit comments on the analysis required under this Act from trade associations representing private sector workers who could reasonably be expected to be affected by its approval; and (3) afford an opportunity, upon request, for a representative of private industry to present comments on such proposal directly to the Board. Requires the corporation to provide the Board with its recommendations regarding action on the proposal, taking into consideration the comments received. Requires: (1) the various Federal departments and agencies (agencies) to offer to purchase from FPI any product authorized to be offered for sale and listed in the UNICOR Schedule of Products (whenever it has a requirement for an FPI product); and (2) FPI to publish and periodically revise such Schedule. Sets forth provisions with respect to the solicitation of offers from FPI and contract awards to FPI on either a competitive or sole source basis. Prohibits the cancellation or withdrawal of a solicitation solely for the purpose of affording an agency buying activity the opportunity to enter into noncompetitive negotiation with FPI unless the Attorney General determines that FPI cannot reasonably expect to receive the contract award on a competitive basis and that such award is necessary to: (1) maintain work opportunities otherwise unavailable at the penal facility at which the contract is to be performed to prevent circumstances that could reasonably be expected to significantly endanger the safe and effective administration of such facility; or (2) permit diversification into the labor-intensive manufacture of a specific product that has been approved by the Board. Specifies that: (1) a timely offer received from FPI shall be considered eligible for award (even if the competition is restricted); and (2) FPI shall be required to perform its contractual obligations to the same extent as any other contractor. Repeals a provisions under which any dispute relating to the price, quality, character, or suitability of FPI products shall be arbitrated by a board consisting of the Comptroller General of the United States, the Administrator of General Services, and the President, or their representatives. Specifies that: (1) a decision by a contracting officer regarding the award of a contract to FPI or relating to the performance of such contract shall be final, unless reversed on appeal (but authorizes the Director of FPI to appeal to the head of a Federal agency an adverse determination made by a contracting officer, in which case the decision of such agency head shall be final); and (2) a dispute between FPI and a buying activity regarding contract performance shall be subject to final resolution by the board of contract appeals having jurisdiction over the buying activity's contract performance disputes under the Contract Disputes Act of 1978. Requires that the amendments made by this Act be implemented through modifications to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) within 180 days. Makes FAR subject to provisions of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act (which assure publication in the Federal Register and the opportunity for public comment before the promulgation of a final regulation). Requires each Federal agency reporting to the Federal Procurement Data System through the General Services Administration to report all acquisitions from FPI. Amends the Federal criminal code to require the Board, in its annual report to the Congress, to include: (1) an analysis of the corporation's total sales for each specific product sold to Federal agencies, the total purchases by each agency of each specific product, the corporation's share of such total Government purchases by specific product, and the number and disposition of disputes submitted to agency heads; (2) an analysis of the inmate workforce, including the number of inmates employed, the number and percentage of employed inmates by the term of their incarceration, and the various hourly wages paid to inmates employed with respect to the production of the various specific products authorized for production and sale; and (3) data concerning employment obtained by former inmates upon release to determine whether the employment provided by FPI during incarceration provided such inmates with knowledge and skill in a trade or occupation that enabled such former inmate to earn a livelihood upon release. Directs that copies of such annual report be made available to the public at a price not to exceed the cost of printing. Authorizes the Department of Defense (DOD) to count toward the attainment of the goal set out in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1987 for participation by small disadvantaged businesses, historically Black colleges and universities, and minority institutions in DOD contracting opportunities, the value of any purchase of supplies or services made by FPI from an entity described in such Act for the performance of a contract with DOD.
Bill· SS. 1680 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Family Home Investment and Education Plan Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make the tax on prohibited transactions inapplicable to a home equity participation arrangement. Describes such arrangement as one in which the eligible participant in an individual retirement plan directs the trustee of such plan to acquire an ownership interest in all or part of any dwelling unit which within a reasonable period of time (determined at the time the arrangement is executed) is to be used as the principal residence for a first-time homebuyer. Requires such ownership interest to be a fee interest which requires full repayment. Limits the amount invested to the balance in the plan before January 1, 1992. Describes the first-time homebuyer as an eligible participant or a qualified family member (child, parent, grandparent, or spouse) who had no present ownership interest in a principal residence during the 36-month period before the date of the arrangement. Allows the use of amounts in an individual retirement plan (prior to January 1, 1992) to make loans to purchase a home for a first-time homebuyer or to pay qualified higher education expenses on behalf of an eligible participant or a qualified family member. Requires the repayment of first-time homebuyer loans within 15 years and of higher education loans within ten years.
Bill· SS. 1683 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code and title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act to revise the employment tax treatment of certain crew members on fishing vessels with a crew of ten or fewer individuals.
Bill· SS. 1668 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Secure Choice - Title I: Long - Term Care Provisions - Amends the Social Security Act to establish a new Federal program to provide grants to States for making long-term care assistance to low-income functionally impaired elderly individuals under a State plan approved under a new title XXI entitled "Long-Term Care Assistance Programs For The Elderly." Outlines: (1) requirements for State plans for long-term care assistance; and (2) conditions for the approval of such plans by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Allows States to impose sanctions on service providers who overcharge such individuals. Disregards payments under title XVI (Supplemental Security Income) to an individual who is eligible for long-term care assistance under the plan and is in a nursing facility at the time such benefits are paid for purposes of determining the amount of any post-eligibility contribution by the individual toward the cost of the care and services provided by the nursing facility. Allows States to exclude any individual or entity for participation under the State plan for any reason for which the Secretary could exclude the individual or entity from participation in Medicare (title XVIII of the Social Security Act) and State health care programs. Requires States to provide for making long-term care assistance available, including at least the services described below in items 2 and 3, to all individuals aged 55 or older: (1) who are impaired because they are limited in performing specified activities of daily living or have Alzheimer's disease or a similar dementia; (2) whose income and resources do not exceed the minimum prescribed levels the State is required by this Act to establish; and (3) who are likely to receive the care and services described below for at least 45 consecutive days. Defines "long-term care assistance" as payment of part or all of the cost of the following care and services (if provided in or after the third month before the month in which the recipient makes application for assistance) for the individuals described above: (1) nursing facility services (other than services in an institution for mental diseases); (2) home and community-based services that include homemaker/home health aide services, personal care services, adult day care, nursing services, physical therapy, and respite care; (3) case management services provided by a qualified community-care case manager; (4) respiratory care services; (5) prescription drugs; and (6) any other long-term care and any other type of remedial care (other than room and board) recognized under State law and specified by the Secretary. Gives States the option to cover individuals with incomes up to 240 percent of the Federal poverty level. Outlines provisions for determining the amount of funds the Secretary must pay to a State for expenditures for long-term care assistance provided under its approved plan. Prohibits State plans from imposing enrollment fees, premiums, or similar charges for services furnished to severely functionally impaired individuals who, as a condition for receiving services under the plan, must spend for the costs of long-term care all but a minimal amount of their income required for personal needs. Requires any deductible, cost sharing, or similar charge imposed under the plan with respect to other such individuals or other care and services to be nominal in amount. Requires State plans to require that no provider participating under the State plan may deny care or services to an individual eligible for such care or services under the plan on account of such individual's inability to pay a deduction, cost sharing, or similar charge. Makes an individual to whom such care or services were furnished liable for applicable charges. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) liens, adjustments, and recoveries with respect to debts incurred for long-term care; and (2) transfers of assets and eligibility for long-term care assistance. Sets forth special rules for the treatment of income and resources of impaired spouses. Establishes the Secure Choice Insurance Option program under part B of new title XXI under which a State, if it chooses to participate, will subsidize long-term care insurance for individuals aged 55 or older who have incomes between 240 and 400 percent of the Federal poverty level and who are provided with care and services under a qualified long-term care insurance policy. Specifies the requirements an insurance policy must meet in order to qualify as a long-term care insurance policy. Requires that an individual, in order to be eligible to purchase a qualified long-term care insurance policy under the program, must, at the time such individual elects to purchase such policy: (1) be a resident of the State; and (2) meet the standard underwriting requirements of an insurer which has been certified by the State's Standards and Performance Organization as having met specified requirements set forth in this Act in order to be able to provide qualified long-term care insurance policies under the State plan. Requires States, in order to be eligible to participate in the new program, to establish a Standards and Performance Organization to: (1) ensure that qualified long-term care insurance policies cover the required care and services; (2) determine that insurers desiring to become qualified insurers comply with applicable State standards; (3) ensure that information concerning the program is made available to qualified participants within the State; (4) assess the quality and appropriateness of the case management services provided to qualified participants; (5) determine whether qualified insurers are using appropriate managed care techniques in the provision of program services; (6) determine whether long-term care is being provided under the program in settings that meet State standards; (7) establish standards applicable to qualified issuers regarding rejection rates for underwriting, and provide for consumer protection; (8) determine and verify on an annual basis the income of qualified participants and their compliance with income and resource requirements; (9) notify qualified insurers of any changes in the income and resources of participants; (10) carry out the educational program discussed below; (11) hear appeals of certain denials and establish appropriate appeals procedures; (12) establish a sliding scale for determining the amount of the benefit subsidy a State is required to pay under a long-term care insurance policy; and (13) carry out such other functions as the Secretary may require. Outlines provisions applicable to qualified participants who change their State of residence. Requires the amount of the premium to be charged by a qualified insurer for a qualified long-term care insurance policy to be determined by each qualified insurer, subject to State insurance regulations, on the basis of the minimum benefits that must be provided under the policy. Requires the State insurance commission to ensure that the premium rate structure applicable to a qualified long-term care insurance policy remains level throughout the policy's life. Sets forth procedures for the periodic review of premium rates in order to determine if qualified insurers may make adjustments. Establishes maximum daily and lifetime benefit amounts for nursing facility services and home- and community-based care under a qualified long-term care insurance policy for which the qualified insurer is liable for payment to the service provider. Outlines additional requirements a State plan must meet applicable to the Secure Choice Insurance Option program. Requires the Secretary to reimburse each participating State for program costs, according to a specified formula. States that to be eligible as a qualified provider an entity must agree to accept the payment rate specified under the program as payment in full for services provided to qualified participants. Requires the Standards and Performance Organization of the State that elects to participate in the program to implement a comprehensive public information and education program that shall be directed to individuals age 55 and above but which shall attempt to educate the general public as whole concerning the need for long-term care insurance. Specifies the requirements for such education program. Requires States participating in the programs under new title XXI to ensure that any long-term care insurance policy offered within the State meets specified: (1) requirements of the long-term care insurance model regulation, and the long-term care insurance model Act, respectively, promulgated by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC); (2) tax disclosure requirements; and (3) requirements relating to nonforfeitability. Outlines additional responsibilities of participating States with respect to any individual or entity selling or offering for sale in the State a long-term care insurance policy, including responsibilities of participating States for ensuring that such individuals or entities comply with specified NAIC model regulations and Act provisions. Directs NAIC to promulgate standards for the use of uniform language and definitions in long-term care insurance policies. Directs the Secretary to provide that individuals eligible for services under title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act which, effective upon the enactment of this Act, are provided under new title XXI shall continue to be eligible to receive such services in the same manner as previously provided. Amends the Medicaid program to repeal provisions concerning home and community care for functionally disabled elderly individuals. Directs the Comptroller General to study and report to the Congress on the appropriateness and adequacy of using the Federal medical assistance percentage utilized under Medicaid for payment of services provided under new title XXI. Directs the Secretary to conduct studies to: (1) develop appropriate criteria for determining eligibility for long-term care services under a program similar to the Secure Choice program for mentally retarded or developmentally disabled individuals; and (2) determine the feasibility of establishing a data collection system for public and private long-term care services. Directs the Secretary to establish a new organizational unit within the Health Care Financing Administration to administer the new long-term care assistance program under title XXI. Title II: Long-Term Care Tax Provisions - Subtitle A: Tax Treatment of Long-Term Care - Private Long-Term Care Insurance Act of 1991 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow an individual an itemized deduction for qualified long-term care services. Defines such services as necessary diagnostic, preventive, therapeutic, and rehabilitative services, and maintenance and personal care services which: (1) are required by a chronically ill individual; (2) have as their primary purpose the provision of needed assistance with daily living activities which the individual is certified as being unable to perform; and (3) are provided pursuant to a continuing plan of care prescribed by a licensed health practitioner. Provides for: (1) long-term care insurance contracts to be treated as accident or health insurance contracts; (2) amounts received under such contracts with respect to qualified long-term care services to be treated as amounts received for personal injuries or sickness; (3) employer plans providing such services to be treated as an accident or health plan; and (4) per diem and other periodic payments to be treated as payments made with respect to qualified long-term care services, with specified limitations. Declares that a qualified long-term care insurance contract is one in which the only insurance protection provided is coverage of qualified long-term care services. Prohibits borrowing under such a contract and its assignment or pledging as collateral for a loan. Prohibits it from covering expenses to the extent that such expenses are reimbursable under Medicare. Provides for the tax treatment of policyholders based on dollar limitations on per diem and other periodic payments. Makes the continuation coverage excise tax inapplicable to qualified long-term care insurance contracts or plans of employers that provide such coverage. Sets forth specified consumer protection provisions to be satisfied by qualified long-term care insurance contracts, including the NAIC model Act. Imposes an excise tax of $5,000 on any person who fails to meet specified requirements for such contracts with respect to: (1) regulation of sales practices; (2) model Act provisions; and (3) disclosure. Requires NAIC to promulgate standards for the use of uniform language and definitions in long-term care insurance policies by January 1, 1993. Subtitle B: Treatment of Accelerated Death Benefits - Provides for the treatment of amounts paid to a terminally ill individual as death benefits. Allows insurance companies to issue such accelerated death benefit riders on life insurance contracts and requires spousal consent for such treatment and riders. Amends title XI of the Social Security Act to prohibit applicants or recipients under public assistance programs from being required to make an election respecting accelerated death benefits under life insurance policies.
Bill· SS. 1667 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Biennial Budget Act - Amends the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 to revise the Federal and congressional budget processes by establishing a two-year budgeting and appropriations cycle and timetable, beginning in the 103d Congress. Defines the budget biennium as the two consecutive fiscal years beginning on October 1 of any odd-numbered year. Devotes the first session of any Congress to the budget resolution and to appropriations decisions, retaining current deadlines in most cases. Changes relevant deadlines as follows to conform to the biennial scheme: (1) from April 1 to March 31 for the Senate Budget Committee's report on the concurrent resolution on the budget; (2) from June 15 to September 30 for completion of congressional action on reconciliation legislation; and (3) from June 30 to September 30 for completion of congressional action on appropriations bills. Devotes each second session to authorization activity, subject to deadlines of: (1) May 15 for the submission of the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) report to the Budget Committees; and (2) the last day of the session for completion of congressional action on bills and resolutions authorizing new budget authority for the next biennium. Changes from January 15 to February 15 of each year the date by which the CBO Director must submit to the Congress a report on authorizations. Requires the Director of the CBO to issue four-year projections of congressional budget action. (Current projections are on a five-year basis.) Amends provisions relating to the reconciliation process to: (1) increase from 20 to 100 hours the time of debate permitted in the Senate with respect to reconciliation measures; and (2) make it out of order in both the House and the Senate to consider any reconciliation legislation changing any provision of law other than one relating to new budget or spending authority, revenues, or the public debt limit. Revises the extent of projections to be included in CBO analyses of reported bills. Conforms provisions governing the President's budget to the biennial framework. Changes the due date for the President's report on estimated budget outlays and proposed budget authority, making the report due at the same time as the President's budget. Requires the Joint Economic Committee to submit its evaluation of these estimates by February 25 of each odd-numbered year. (The current annual deadline is March 1.) Directs the heads of Federal executive agencies, the Comptroller General, and the Directors of the Congressional Budget Office, the Office of Technology Assessment, and the Congressional Research Service to provide studies, analyses, reports, and other documentation concerning program administration to assist the standing committees of the House and the Senate having jurisdiction over the programs in question. Amends the Rules of the House of Representatives to conform to the biennial framework.
Bill· SS. 1656 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise provisions concerning the excise tax on gambling vessels to eliminate such tax on ferryboats.
Bill· SS. 1644 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Insurance Protection Act of 1991 - Title I: Insurance Regulatory Commission - Establishes the Insurance Regulatory Commission. Authorizes the Commission to conduct investigations, assess insurers and reinsurers to pay Commission expenses, certify State insurance departments, and examine interstate insurers. Requires the Commission to: (1) collect insurance data, including periodic statements by interstate insurers and information on State and Federal regulatory and legal actions involving any person engaged in the business of insurance; (2) refer to the Department of Justice matters warranting possible civil or criminal enforcement; (3) establish a Securities Valuation Office; (4) set mandatory reserves for life insurers and fraternal benefits societies; and (5) establish minimum standards for banks that issue letters of credit for reinsurance. Title II: Federal Minimum Standards - Mandates that the Commission: (1) establish minimum standards which must be implemented by State insurance departments; (2) establish minimum capital and surplus requirements; (3) create and maintain uniform annual insurer statement forms and accounting procedures; (4) establish standards for identifying insurers in hazardous condition; (5) ensure effective and comprehensive regulation of the financial condition of an insurer in a holding company system; (6) prescribe the amount of risk which may be retained by a property and liability company for an individual risk; (7) regulate insurer investments; (8) prescribe assets which may be admitted, authorized, or allowed as assets in the insurer's financial statement; (9) prescribe liabilities and reserves resulting from contracts issued; (10) require annual audits; (11) require an annual actuarial analysis; (12) prescribe requirements for the transfer of policies from one insurer to another; (13) restrict ownership and transfer of ownership of an insurer; (14) prescribe consumer disclosure prior to policy purchase, allow cancellation by the consumer, establish simplification and standardization requirements, and require seller good faith and fair dealing; (15) require State insurance departments to provide information that will assist consumers in making informed insurance purchase decisions; (16) require real estate holdings held as assets to be valued at market value; (17) regulate reinsurance; (18) restrict the use of surplus notes and other financial devices in certain circumstances; and (19) prescribe standards for the adequacy of State insurance department resources. Title III: Reinsurance - Requires the Commission to establish requirements as necessary for the effective regulation of reinsurance. Establishes in the Commission the Office of Reinsurance Regulation. Requires the Reinsurance Office to promulgate rules and regulations on specified matters. Prohibits transacting the business of reinsurance without complying with this Act. Preempts conflicting State laws. Provides for supervision, conservation, and rehabilitation of a reinsurer, with the Director of the Reinsurance Office acting as receiver when appointed under this title. Grants U.S. district courts exclusive jurisdiction to appoint the Director and supervise the reinsurer's rehabilitation. Requires the Director to examine reinsurers as often as necessary to assure solidity and proper functioning. Title IV: The National Insurance Guaranty Corporation - Establishes the National Insurance Guaranty Corporation, as a nonprofit instrumentality of the United States, to: (1) provide for the payment of covered claims; (2) assess the cost of doing so; and (3) provide a uniform national system of administration for the liquidation of insolvent member insurers. Prohibits direct or indirect Federal financial assistance, except as provided in specified provisions. Requires the Corporation's Board to: (1) establish guarantee fund accounts for specified principal lines of insurance; and (2) determine to what extent, if any, reinsurance is covered under this title. Establishes the National Guaranty Fund to carry out this title. Declares that member insurers shall be all insurers with an interstate insurance license. Subjects all members to assessments to cover any expense under this title and title V. Relieves members of liability under any State law or State guaranty fund regarding an insurance insolvency not commenced before enactment of this Act. Exempts the Corporation from all Federal, State, and local taxes, except for State, Territorial, or local real property taxes. Provides for taxation when the Corporation is acting as a liquidator. Prohibits any State from assessing an insurer with an interstate insurance license for any insurer insolvency occurring two years after enactment of this Act. Title V: Liquidation of Member Insurers - Requires that the Corporation act as receiver of a member insurer for liquidation. Grants U.S. district courts exclusive jurisdiction over a proceeding to appoint the Corporation as liquidator and to supervise the liquidation. Sets forth liquidation procedures and policies. Requires evidence of wrongdoing to be referred to the Commission and the appropriate State regulator. Makes the Corporation the exclusive liquidator of insolvent members. Title VI: Criminal Penalties - Amends the Federal criminal code to impose civil and criminal penalties for certain actions, including false statements, misappropriation of money, false records, corrupt influence or obstruction, conducting interstate insurance or reinsurance without authorization, and participation or permitting participation in the business of insurance after a previous conviction. Requires charges to be filed within ten years after the offense. Imposes civil and criminal penalties for disclosure of the existence, contents, or information gained from a subpoena for records regarding such offenses. Provides for criminal forfeiture of property gained as a result of such offenses. Includes proceedings before any Federal or State insurance regulatory official or examiner in the definition of "official proceeding" for provisions relating to tampering with or retaliating against a witness, victim, or informant.
Bill· SS. 1647 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that, for purposes of computing the foreign tax credit, any deduction for State or local income or franchise tax shall not be allocated or apportioned to gross income from sources outside the United States.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 173 (102nd)passed
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Authorizes the President Pro Tempore of the Senate to enter into an agreement with the Triangle Coalition for Science and Technology Education to establish an Albert Einstein Congressional Fellowship Program providing for three fellowships within the Senate in each fiscal year, beginning in FY 1991. Provides for the agreement only if the Triangle Coalition for Science and Technology meets certain program requirements.
Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 60 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Expresses the sense of the Congress that both the legislative and executive branches should undertake efforts to better identify, analyze, and control Federal overhead expenditures and that it should be the policy of the U.S. Government to reduce its FY 1992 overhead expenditures by ten percent.
Law· HRH.R. 3201 (102nd)open
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Emergency Unemployment Compensation Act of 1991 - Establishes an emergency unemployment compensation program. Allows any State to enter into and participate in an agreement with the Secretary of Labor (the Secretary) under which the State agency which administers the State unemployment compensation law will make payments of emergency unemployment compensation: (1) to individuals who have exhausted all rights to regular compensation under State law, have no rights to such regular compensation or any additional State or Federal compensation, and are not receiving Canadian compensation; and (2) for any week of unemployment beginning in the individual's eligibility period. Sets forth provisions relating to exhaustion of regular benefits and weekly amount of emergency benefits equal to regular benefits. Authorizes a State Governor, in a period of a seven or eight percent total unemployment rate in that State (as defined under this Act), to elect to trigger off an extended compensation period to provide emergency unemployment compensation to individuals who have exhausted their rights to regular compensation under State law. Requires a State, under such an agreement, to establish an emergency unemployment compensation account with respect to the benefit year of each eligible individual who files an application. Limits benefit payments to not more than the amount in the individual's account. Sets forth formulas for determining the amount in such account. Provides that the applicable limit in such account shall be equal to: (1) 20 for an eight-percent period, i.e. one triggered by a total unemployment rate (TUR) of eight percent or more in the State, seasonally adjusted, for the most recent three months with available data; (2) 13 for a seven-percent period; (3) seven for a six-percent period; and (4) four for any other period. Sets forth special rules relating to such applicable limits. Requires reduction in such account by the amount of extended benefits received by the individual relating to the same benefit year under the Federal-State Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 1970. Sets the weekly benefit amount at the amount of regular compensation (including dependents' allowances) payable under the State law to the individual for such week for total unemployment. Provides for determination of periods and applicable triggers. Provides, in general, that no emergency unemployment compensation shall be payable to any individual under this Act for any week beginning: (1) before the later of September 1, 1991, or the first week following the week in which an agreement under this Act is entered into; or (2) after July 4, 1992. Sets forth transition and reachback provisions for the eligibility of certain individuals for such benefits. Provides for payments to States having such agreements for emergency unemployment compensation. Sets forth financing provisions. Requires that funds in the extended unemployment compensation account of the Unemployment Trust Fund be used to make payments to States having agreements under this Act. Sets forth provisions relating to fraud and overpayments. Defines the eligible period under this Act. Provides that in no event shall an individual's period of eligibility include any weeks after the 39th week after the end of the benefit year for which the individual exhausted rights to regular compensation or extended compensation. Amends specified Federal law to repeal certain limitations on payment of unemployment compensation to former members of the Armed Forces. Reduces the length of required active duty by reserves for purposes of such payment. Amends the Social Security Act to establish an Advisory Council on Unemployment Compensation. Directs the Secretary of Labor to establish such a Council by February 1, 1992, and every fourth year thereafter. Requires each such Council to evaluate the unemployment compensation program. Sets forth membership and staff provisions. Requires each Council to report to the President and the Congress by February 1 of the second year following the year in which it is required to be established. Requires the first Council report to include findings and recommendations on determining eligibility for extended unemployment benefits on the basis of unemployment statistics for regions, States, or subdivisions of States. Designates as emergency requirements, pursuant to the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Holling Act) all direct spending amounts provided, and all appropriations authorized by this Act (for all fiscal years). Provides that this Act shall not take effect unless, by its enactment date, the President submits to the Congress a written designation of all such direct spending amounts and authorized appropriations as such emergency requirements.
Bill· HRH.R. 3229 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
U.S. Health Service Act - Title I: Establishment and Operation of the United States Health Service - Part A: Initial Organization - Establishes, as an independent entity within the executive branch, the United States Health Service (Service). Vests authority of the Service in the appropriate National Health Board and area health boards. Grants the Service the power of eminent domain. Directs the President to: (1) appoint 21 individuals to serve as members of the Interim National Health Board of the Service; and (2) designate two nominees as chairperson and vice chairperson of the Interim National Board. Declares that the members of the Interim National Board shall serve until the National Health Board holds its initial meeting in accordance with certain provisions of this Act. Sets forth the duties of the Interim National Board. Authorizes appropriations. Part B: Organization of Area Health Boards - Requires the Interim National Board to establish health care delivery regions throughout the United States which meet specified requirements. Sets forth procedures regarding election and appointment of members and certain officers of: (1) interim national, interim regional, and interim district health boards; and (2) initial and subsequent national, regional, district, and community health boards. Requires the National Health Board (National Board) to modify the boundaries of each health care delivery region after each census and at such other times as it deems necessary, provided such modification is approved in a referendum of registered users residing in an area whose regional identification would be changed by such modification. Requires each regional board, in certain circumstances, to review the appropriateness of district and community boundaries. Allows regional boards to modify such boundaries in certain circumstances, provided modification is approved in a referendum. Part C: General Provisions Regarding Health Boards - Sets forth the membership and terms of office of health boards. Provides for recall of board members for specified reasons and for filling vacancies on health boards. Provides for the manner of conducting meetings of health boards and for the compensation of members of the National Board and compensation of and payment of expenses for members of other health boards. Sets forth procedures for the establishment by the National Board of guidelines and standards required by or in furtherance of the objectives of this Act. Requires each regional board to provide orientation, education, and technical assistance to district and community boards. Requires the appropriate national board to provide such assistance to regional boards. Title II: Delivery of Health Care and Supplemental Services - Part A: Patients' Rights in Health Care Delivery - Requires the Service to ensure that every user is given the right to receive high quality care and supplemental services without charge and without discrimination. Sets forth a list of other basic health rights. Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1973 to entitle certain employees to health leave compensation, subject to specified exceptions which exist in current law as exceptions to minimum wage and maximum hours provisions. Part B: Eligibility for, Nature of, and Scope of Services Provided by the Service - Declares all individuals, while within the United States, to be eligible to receive health care and supplemental services under this Act. Excludes personal comfort or cosmetic services unless they are necessary for health-related reasons. Requires the Service to provide in the United States specified services in or through facilities established by the Service. Prohibits the Service from providing such services in a region, district, or community other than under the auspices of a regional, district, or community board established in accordance with this Act. Requires the Service to provide specified supplemental services in or through health care facilities established by the Service. Provides for reimbursement by the Service of the cost of emergency health care services under certain circumstances. Part C: Health Care Facilities and Delivery of Health Care Services - Requires each community board to establish and maintain such health care facilities as are necessary for efficient and effective delivery of comprehensive primary health care services, specialized health care services, special services, and community-oriented health measures which are provided, as much as possible, through a single comprehensive health center. Requires each district board to establish and maintain in its district a general hospital, such other health care facilities as are necessary, and such health care services of a specialized nature as may be provided most effectively and efficiently at the district level. Requires each regional board to establish and maintain: (1) a regional medical facility for highly specialized health care services; (2) health care and supplemental services for individuals whose needs cannot be met by community or district boards; and (3) such other facilities as are necessary. Requires each area health board to: (1) hire health workers; (2) purchase or lease necessary premises; and (3) seek to minimize fragmentation and duplication in delivery of health care. Requires each regional board to provide for affiliation and coordination within its region and with adjacent regions. Requires the National Board to establish guidelines for distribution and coordination of the delivery of health care services and plan and transition to the new facilities for affected workers. Requires regional boards, if a community or district board fails to provide health services, to provide the services. Requires each health board to establish policies and organizational plans consistent with provisions of this Act. Requires such boards, in establishing, implementing, and modifying such policies and plans, to seek participation of affected workers and users. Provides for a health board, if it determines that it cannot itself effectively manage the operation of all facilities, to establish a health care facility board or boards. Specifies elements to be provided for in the policies and organizational plans established by health boards. Prohibits a health board, on and after three years after the effective date of health services, from permitting its health care facilities to be used for the private delivery of health services. Prohibits individuals employed by a health board from engaging in the private delivery of health services. Requires each health board to ensure that health facilities it operates which provide outpatient services are open during hours which permit all users to make use of such services. Sets forth requirements for facilities providing inpatient services for 30 continuous days or longer. Requires each health board to provide that, at least once each year, the inpatients of facilities providing inpatient services for 30 continuous days or longer shall elect, from among themselves and representatives of certain user associations, a review committee of not less than three members. Provides for recall and proxies with respect to such committees. Requires various health boards to conduct regular inspections of specified facilities. Requires area health boards to provide: (1) contraception information and materials; (2) evaluation and treatment for venereal diseases and diseases of the reproductive organs; (3) information and counseling regarding pregnancy, child bearing, and possible genetically induced anomalies; (4) pregnancy testing; (5) prenatal services; (6) abortion services; and (7) counseling by women for specified services and counseling by men for specified services. Requires all such services to be delivered without coercion or harassment, with confidentiality, and without prior approval of individuals other than the individual receiving the services. Requires that individuals be permitted to be accompanied by a person of their choice during the provision of such services, subject to exception. Sets forth restrictions and requirements for informed consent regarding: (1) treatments or procedures which could affect an individual's reproductive capacity; and (2) mastectomy or other breast cancer treatment. Requires that women giving birth have the right to choose from a complete range of childbirth options. Title III: Health Labor Force - Part A: Job Categories and Certification - Declares that, notwithstanding State laws to the contrary, the Service shall be the sole judge of the qualifications of its employees. Requires each area health board to insure that work is performed by certified health workers. Mandates health boards to provide for periodic review and assessment of competency. States that area health boards shall provide opportunities for assessment and certification of skills required for advancement. Requires the National Board to establish guidelines for classification, certification, and employment of health workers. Requires that such guidelines: (1) permit alternative approaches to healing, when such approaches have not been shown to be injurious to health; (2) have both flexibility and uniformity to meet stated objectives; and (3) require that each health worker employed by a community board work part of the time in a facility operated by a district or regional board and each health worker employed by a district or regional board work part of the time in a health care facility operated by a community board. Mandates that the National Board periodically evaluate job categories and certification practices established by area health boards and assist regional boards in applying certain guidelines. States that each regional board, for job categories requiring advanced specialty training, shall establish certification standards which contain certain specifications made by the National Board. Requires recognition of training, experience, and performance undertaken or demonstrated before the establishment of health team schools under part B of this title. Requires each board to periodically review, supplement, modify, or eliminate such standards. Part B: Education of Health Workers - Requires each regional board, in consultation with community and district boards, to establish a health team school (school) to provide initial and continuing basic education in health care delivery and initial and continuing advanced education in health care specialties and health science specialty fields. Allows for collaboration between adjacent regions conducting joint educational programs. Requires that the schools be funded exclusively by the Service, prohibits them from charging or accepting tuition or fees, and requires them to provide each student with an allowance for living expenses, educational supplies, and any child care. Sets forth the principles under which the schools are required to be operated and maintained. Requires the National Board to establish guidelines for the application of such principles and for the phased integration of existing health worker education programs into the schools. Requires each regional board to establish and implement for the school: (1) admissions policies with certain required elements; (2) curriculum policies with stated elements; (3) faculty hiring procedures which will create a faculty which approximates the population of the region by race, sex, and language; and (4) a governance plan for the management of its school which gives significant decision making powers to staff and students. Prohibits enrolling any individual unless the individual agrees to perform health care services as an employee of the Service, in a job category for which training is being provided, for a period of time equal to the period of enrollment, but not less than two years, and subject to other terms and conditions. Entitles the Service, if an individual fails to start or fails to complete such service, to recover damages. Cancels payment of damages upon the death of the individual. Allows waiver or suspension of the obligation of service or payment if compliance is impossible or would involve extreme hardship and if enforcement would be unconscionable. Limits discharge of such obligation under bankruptcy. Mandates that each area board periodically assess the ratio of the health workers employed by the board in each job category to the number of residents in the area. Gives priority in hiring individuals obligated to perform service to health worker shortage areas and, as a second level of priority, to the regional, district, or community board for the region, district, or community in which the program was completed. States that the National Board shall establish a program to match the preferences graduates have for locations with the needs and preferences of various boards. Requires the National Board to make payments of principal and interest on certain loans incurred by individuals for an educational program in health care delivery, health care specialties, or health science fields which is outstanding on the day that individual begins to work for the Service. Establishes a schedule for such payments. Part C: Employment and Labor-Management Relations Within the Service - Requires health boards to employ, classify, and fix the salaries and benefits of all employees of the Service. Mandates that the appropriate National Board provide for: (1) employment and promotion in the Service in the same manner as under the Federal civil service system; (2) opportunities for advancement; (3) use of work time for continuing education without loss of pay or other rights; and (4) hearings on adverse actions. States that health boards shall give hiring preference to individuals employed as health workers before enactment of this Act. Requires the National Board to ensure that all such individuals desiring employment in the Service find appropriate employment in the Service. Declares employees of the Service eligible for promotion or transfer to any position in the Service for which they are qualified. Mandates that each regional board establish and maintain a job placement service. Places restrictions on hiring relating to the: (1) ratio of health workers to residents; and (2) existence of a health worker shortage area in the same region. Declares that employees of the Service are covered by specified Federal laws relating to adverse actions, compensation for work injuries, civil service retirement, and withholding of pay for the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund, subject to exceptions relating to collective bargaining agreements and conditioned on approval by the Office of Personnel Management. Declares sick and annual leave and compensatory time of employees of the Service, whether accrued prior to or after the commencement of operations of the Service, to be obligations of the Service. Requires compensation, benefits, and other terms and conditions of employment to be the same on the effective date of health services as for Federal Government employees until changed by the Service. Makes specified provisions of Federal law relating to unemployment compensation and life insurance apply to employees of the Service unless modified. Prohibits changes in fringe benefits which result in a program which is less favorable to employees of the Service than fringe benefits for employees of the Federal Government on the effective date of health services. Declares that the provisions of the National Labor Relations Act shall apply to the Service and its employees, subject to specified exceptions. Declares that provisions of Federal law relating to participation in a strike shall not apply to employees of the Service. Authorizes provisions in collective bargaining agreements between the Service and its employees regarding procedures for the resolution of grievances and adverse actions, including binding third-party arbitration. Amends the Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act of 1959 to include the Service in the definition of the term "employer" under that Act. Provides that the remedies provided by stated Federal laws regarding jurisdiction and tort claims shall be exclusive of any other civil action or proceeding. Directs the Attorney General to defend any such action or proceeding. Provides, in certain circumstances, for removal and remanding of cases between State and Federal courts and for suspensions of specified limitations of time. Authorizes the Attorney General to compromise or settle such cases as provided in specified Federal law. Declares that assault or battery arising out of negligence in various health care functions is not an exception under specified Federal law to tort claims and jurisdiction provisions of Federal law. Authorizes the National Board to hold harmless or provide liability insurance for any employee of the Service under certain circumstances. Title IV: Other Functions of Health Boards - Part A: Advocacy, Grievance Procedures, and Trusteeships - Requires each area health board to establish a program of health advocacy with specified elements. Requires the National Board to establish a health rights legal services program, for users and health workers, providing specified elements. Requires each appropriate regional board to provide that any user, health worker, user association, or specified health board may commence grievance proceedings before specified health boards with respect to alleged violations of this Act. Provides for review of adverse decisions. Prohibits commencement or continuation of such review when suit is filed. Provides procedures for handling such grievances. Authorizes, in certain circumstances, the entity before which a grievance proceeding is commenced or reviewed to: (1) set aside an election of a community board and require a new election; and (2) if not involving a community board, require that a new election be conducted or a new appointment be made. Requires such entity to transfer such functions as necessary to the appropriate higher health board until a new election is conducted or a new appointment is made. Authorizes a health board which receives functions under such a transfer to appoint a trustee or trustee committee to carry out transferred functions. Part B: Occupational Safety and Health Programs - Requires the National Board to oversee occupational safety and health programs conducted at the regional level and to participate in the establishment and administration of occupational safety and health standards under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, with the advice and comments of regional occupational safety and health action councils established under this Act. Amends the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 to substitute references to the National Health Board for references to the Secretary of Health and Human Services throughout such Act, with one specified exception. Adds references to the National Health Board to existing provisions in such Act regarding promulgation, modification, and revocation of safety and health standards. Ends responsibility of the Secretary of Health and Human Services for prescribing rules and regulations to carry out such Secretary's responsibilities under that Act. Adds a reference to consultation with the National Board to existing provisions relating to: (1) exemptions from required provisions on account of national defense; (2) conditions for approval of State safety and health plans; and (3) access to safety and health records and reports required of Federal agencies. Ends the authorization under a specified provision of such Act for the Secretary of Health and Human Services to prescribe regulations requiring employers to measure, record, and make reports on employees' exposure to certain substances or agents. Requires the National Board to establish guidelines for: (1) its participation in the establishment and administration of safety and health standards; (2) the election of community occupational safety and health action councils; (3) the establishment of regional occupational safety and health programs; (4) the establishment and operation of work place health facilities; and (5) the provision of assistance by various health boards to various safety and health councils, and to work place safety and health committees. Requires each community board to provide for the operation of a community occupational safety and health action council (COSHAC). Gives a formula for election of the members of COSHACs. Specifies the duties of each COSHAC. Requires each regional board to establish an occupational health and safety program for its region with specified elements, including staffing and supporting the operation of the regional occupational safety and health action council (ROSHAC). Specifies the responsibilities of each ROSHAC. Requires the employer in each work place to establish and maintain a health facility in or near the work place to meet occupational and emergency health care needs of employees, to be operated either by the community board or by the employer, and the cost, in either case, to be borne by the employer. Grants employees in each work place having 25 or more employees the right to establish work place occupational safety and health committees. Grants the members of such committees rights to engage in certain activities relating to inspections without loss of pay or other job rights. Authorizes employees to monitor conditions and to remove themselves from the site of any hazard without loss of pay or other job rights. Requires employers to minimize hazards and furnish employees with or reimburse employees for needed equipment or clothing. Specifies rights of employees regarding: (1) inspection of medical records maintained by their employers; (2) provision to employees of copies of all reports, studies, and data concerning health and safety in that work place; and (3) the seeking, through collective bargaining, of standards more restrictive than those established under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. Part C: Health and Health Care Delivery Research - Requires the Service to conduct a program of research concerning health and health care delivery. Transfers the National Institutes of Health from the Department of Health and Human Services to the National Health Board. States that the National Board shall establish five new national institutes: Epidemiology, Evaluative Clinical Research, Health Care Services, Pharmacy and Medical Supply, and Sociology of Health and Health Care. Specifies the duties of each such institute. Part D: Health Planning, Distribution of Drugs and Other Medical Supplies, and Miscellaneous Functions - Requires each area board to collect data on supply and demand regarding health workers and health care delivery. Requires each regional board to coordinate the planning and administration of health care delivery, health worker education, and health research in its region. Requires the National Board to formulate one-year and five-year national plans and budgets. Requires the National Board, after consultation with regional boards, to publish, and regularly update, a National Pharmacy and Medical Supply Formulary. Specifies the contents of the Formulary. Requires each regional board to establish a program for the purchase and distribution of drugs and other medical supplies. Authorizes the National Board to establish and operate drug and medical supply manufacturing facilities in certain circumstances. Requires the National Board to publish an annual report and a comprehensive dictionary of terms used in health care records and services maintained or provided by the Service. Title V: Financing of the Service - Part A: Health Service Taxes - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to add a new part imposing on individuals and corporations an additional tax of specified percentages of the normal tax and surtax imposed by a specified section of such code. Ends the income tax exclusion from gross income of amounts paid by third parties for medical care. Excludes from gross income employer contributions to accident or health plans to the extent that such contributions do not provide for health care available to such employees under the Health Service Act. Prohibits income tax deductions for: (1) health care expenses as a trade or business expense; and (2) contributions to certain medical and hospital facilities. Repeals provisions of the Internal Revenue Code relating to: (1) medical and dental expenses; (2) hospital insurance tax imposed on employment and self-employment income; and (3) receipts for railroad employees. Declares that no contractual or other nonstatutory obligation of any employer to pay or provide for health care for present or former employees and their dependents and survivors shall apply on or after the effective date of health services under this Act to the extent such individuals are eligible to receive such services under this Act. Prohibits Federal, State, or private worker compensation programs from paying for or providing any health care on or after the effective date of health services under this Act to the extent such care is available under this Act. Part B: Health Service Trust Fund - Creates in the Treasury the Health Service Trust Fund (Trust Fund). Appropriates to the Trust Fund amounts equal to 100 percent of the expected net receipts from specified provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Appropriates to the Trust Fund a Government contribution equal to 40 percent of the amount appropriated under such 100 percent provision. Transfers to the Trust Fund all assets and liabilities of the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund and the Federal Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust Fund. Creates the Board of Trustees of the Trust Fund. Requires the investment of specified portions of the Trust Fund. Extends the purposes for which obligations of the United States may be issued under the Second Liberty Bond Act, to authorize the issuance at par of public debt obligations for purchase by the Trust Fund. Part C: Preparation of Plans and Budgets - Requires the National Board to annually fix the maximum amount of funds which may be expended from the Trust Fund during the fiscal year. Specifies criteria to be considered in determining such amount's maximum value. Authorizes the National Board to refix such maximum amount in certain circumstances. Authorizes the National Board to exceed such maximum amount as necessary because of epidemic, disaster, or other occurrence which was not and could not have been planned for. Authorizes the National Board to allocate, in addition to such maximum amount, funds borrowed under specified provisions of this Act. Requires each community, district, and regional board to annually submit fiscal year and five-year plans and budgets to the next higher level health board. Requires plans and budgets to be prepared in consultation with appropriate users, health workers, and health boards. Part D: Allocation and Distribution of Funds - Requires the National Board to annually transmit to regional boards a national health budget dividing the total funds available into funds for ordinary operating expenses, preventive health measures, capital expenses, research expenses, and special operating expenses. Requires funds for ordinary operating expenses, preventive health measures, and research expenses to be allocated to the regional boards on the basis of population. Requires funds for capital expenses to be allocated according to stated criteria. Declares the budget submitted to the regional boards by the National Board to be adopted upon the approval by a majority of the regional boards. Sets forth requirements, similar to those for the national health budget, for preparation and adoption of regional and district budgets. Defines "special operating expenses" to mean operating expenses associated with: (1) care and treatment for users 65 years of age and older; (2) care and treatment of persons confined to full-time residential institutions, including nursing homes and facilities for the treatment of mental illness; (3) the special health care needs of low-income users; (4) the special health care needs of rural users; (5) special health care needs arising from environmental or occupational health conditions; (6) special health care needs arising from unexpected occurrences, including epidemics and natural disasters; and (7) the conduct of environmental health inspection and monitoring services. Sets forth rules for allocation of special operating expenses. Requires funds allocated under the national health budget to be distributed by the National Board from the Trust Fund. Prohibits health boards from requesting or receiving funds from any other source. Sets forth rules regarding: (1) distribution of funds in the absence of an adopted budget; (2) maintenance of separate accounts by area boards; (3) payment of area health boards; and (4) allocation of supplementary funds required by events occurring or information acquired after initial allocations. Authorizes area boards to retain unused funds for two years following receipt. Requires any funds unexpended after such time to be returned to the Trust Fund. Mandates annual financial statements by area health boards. Grants the National Board and the Comptroller General of the United States, for the purpose of audits, access to any books, documents, papers, and records related to the operation of the Service. Part E: General Provisions - Authorizes the National Board to borrow money and to issue and sell obligations as necessary for this Act, but only in amounts specified in appropriations Acts. Limits the aggregate amount of such obligations outstanding at any one time. Authorizes the National Board to pledge the assets of the Trust Fund and pledge its revenues and receipts for various purposes related to such obligations. Authorizes the National Board to enter into a variety of covenants as necessary or desirable to enhance the marketability of such obligations. Declares that such obligations: (1) shall be negotiable or nonnegotiable, bearer or registered; (2) shall contain a recital that they are issued under a specified provision of this Act; (3) shall be lawful investments; (4) shall be exempt from State taxes; and (5) shall not, subject to exception, be obligations of the U.S. Government. Requires the National Board to advise the Secretary of the Treasury of the proposed sale of obligations. Authorizes such Secretary to elect to purchase the obligations. Authorizes the National Board, if the Secretary elects not to buy such obligations, to issue and sell them to a party or parties other than the Secretary, upon notice to the Secretary and consultation regarding various terms and conditions. Empowers the National Board to require the Secretary of the Treasury to purchase obligations of the Service. Prohibits any required purchase which would result in a holding by the Secretary in excess of a specified amount. Makes obligations issued by the Service obligations of the U.S. Government under certain circumstances. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury, for the purpose of any purchase of the obligations of the Service, to use as a public debt transaction the proceeds from the sale of any securities issued under the Second Liberty Bond Act. Extends the purposes of such Act to include any purchases of the obligations of the Service under this part. Title VI: Miscellaneous Provisions - Repeals, on the effective date of health services, the Public Health Service Act, except for specified provisions relating to: (1) its short title and definitions; (2) licensing, quarantine, and inspections authority; and (3) safety of public water systems. Delays, until four years after the effective date of health services, repeal of portions of the Public Health Service Act regarding provision of assistance to educational institutions and their students, in areas which have not established health team schools under part A of title III of this Act. Repeals specified provisions of the Social Security Act relating to maternal and child health, Medicare, Medicaid, professional standards review, entitlement to hospital insurance benefits, uniform health reporting systems, limitation on Federal participation for capital expenditures, the program for determining qualification for certain health care personnel, disclosure of ownership and related information, disclosure of certain convictions, and payments to States for health care and supplemental services. Repeals specified provisions of Federal law relating to health insurance for Federal employees, medical benefits and programs relating to veterans, and the civilian health and medical program of the uniformed services. Repeals the Comprehensive Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Prevention, Treatment, and Rehabilitation Act of 1970, the Comprehensive Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Prevention, Treatment, and Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1974, and a specified provision of the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970 relating to medical treatment of narcotic addiction. Repeals Federal law relating to hospitals, community hospitals, and other health facilities for Indians. Repeals the District of Columbia Medical Facilities Construction Act of 1968 and the District of Columbia Medical and Dental Manpower Act of 1970. Repeals specified provisions of the National Housing Act relating to mortgage insurance for nursing homes, hospitals, and group practice facilities. Repeals the Mental Retardation Facilities and Community Mental Health Centers Construction Act of 1963, the Family Planning Services and Population Research Act of 1970, the National Arthritis Act of 1974, and the National Diabetes Mellitus Research and Education Act. Repeals specified provisions of the Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention Act relating to grant, demonstration, and research programs for lead-based paint poisoning prevention. Repeals the Act of March 2, 1897, relating to tea importation. Repeals specified provisions of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 relating to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Requires the President to prepare and submit to the Congress legislation to repeal or amend provisions of laws which are inconsistent with this Act, including the transfers of authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services, under specified provisions of Federal law, to the Service. Sets forth various requirements regarding review and reporting to the President and the Congress concerning how the Service is carrying out the purposes of the various programs authorized to be conducted by provisions repealed by this Act. Transfers to the Health Service Trust Fund amounts appropriated to carry out the purposes of any law repealed by this Act. Provides transition rules regarding contracts entered into or rights or obligations arising before the effective date of such repeals. Amends the Budget and Accounting Act, 1921 to require that each budget submitted by the President set forth items relating to the Health Service Trust Fund separately from other operations of the Government. Declares that, if any provisions of this Act are declared invalid, the remainder of the Act shall not be affected.
Bill· HRH.R. 3205 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Health Insurance Coverage and Cost Containment Act of 1991 - Title I: Requiring Employers to Provide Health Insurance Coverage for Employees and Dependents or to Pay for Coverage Through the Public Health Plan - Amends the Social Security Act and the Internal Revenue Code to, respectively: (1) add a new title XXI under which employers are required to either enroll their employees and family members under a qualified employer health plan or provide information to the Secretary of Health and Human Services for enrollment instead in the public health plan created under a new title XXII of the Social Security Act and discussed under title II of this Act; and (2) impose a premium tax (set at nine percent of the employment wage base for 1993 and indexed to the rate of growth in public health plan benefits) on employers who fail to enroll their employees and family members under a qualified employer health plan and on such employers' employees, with employers paying 80 percent of the tax and employees paying the remaining 20 percent in order to pay for the basic health insurance coverage provided under the public health plan, impose an excise tax (set at $100 per day) on those employers who fail to provide the information necessary for enrollment under the public health plan, and set forth special rules and exceptions applicable in the imposition of such premium and excise taxes. Sets forth, under new title XXI of the Social Security Act, the rules for the enrollment of full- and part-time, seasonal, and temporary employees, including rules applicable in cases of families with more than one worker and where both employers offer enrollment under a qualified employer health plan. Phases in implementation of enrollment and tax payment requirements beginning on January 1, 1993 for employers with more than 100 employees. Requires that as of January 1, 1996 all employers must provide coverage or pay the premium tax for coverage under the public health plan. Allows the qualified employer health plan under which the employer must provide such benefit package to be either a private health plan or a self-insured plan, depending upon the size of the employer. Allows employers to charge employees up to 20 percent of the premium for such basic coverage. Outlines additional requirements for qualified employer health plan premiums and cost-sharing. Sets forth requirements for which the Secretary is to develop standards to certify a health plan as a qualified employer health plan. Requires the Secretary to: (1) establish procedures for the periodic review and recertification of plans as qualified employer health plans; and (2) terminate the certification of any such plan that no longer meets such standards. Requires employers to provide their employees and family members with a basic health benefit package that at least mirrors the benefits provided under the public health plan. Amends the Internal Revenue Code, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, and the Public Health Service Act to repeal certain health insurance continuation requirements. Title II: Provision of Health Insurance Through a Public Health Plan - Amends the Social Security Act to add a new title XXII under which is created a public health plan similar to Medicare (title XVIII of the Social Security Act) under which those U.S. citizens who are not Medicare beneficiaries or enrolled under a qualified employer health plan under title I of this Act or under a Federal health plan are eligible to enroll for the basic health insurance benefits outlined below. Makes low-income individuals who enroll in the plan eligible for assistance to limit or eliminate their financial obligations for premiums, deductibles, and co-payments under the plan. Sets forth provisions detailing the application process for enrollment under the public health plan. Requires individuals who are eligible to enroll under the public health plan but have not applied for enrollment by January 1, 1996 to be automatically enrolled on a retroactive basis and subjected to a penalty of twice any premiums otherwise due. Provides that the benefits under the public health plan will generally be the same as those currently covered under Medicare, except that: (1) plan benefits will include the preventive services added to the Medicare program under title V of this Act, without co-payments or limits on days of care per spell of illness; (2) plan benefits will include hospital care for children, without co-payments or limits on days of care per spell of illness; (3) plan benefits will include specified pregnancy-related services, subject to a required periodicity schedule and prior authorization for certain services; and (4) there will be a single annual deductible of $250 per individual/$500 per family with an overall annual limit on deductibles and co-payments of $2,500 per individual/$3,000 per family indexed to the annual increases in the contribution and benefit base. Requires payments for services under the public health plan to be based on rates established by the Secretary, and approved by the Health Care Cost Containment Commission, under title III of this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish a global fee schedule for payment of obstetrical services with a disincentive for cesarean sections. Sets forth provisions for: (1) determining the amount of premiums to be charged individuals not connected to the work force and individuals who are employed on a part-time, seasonal, or temporary basis; and (2) collecting current and delinquent premium payments. Creates in the Treasury the Public Health Trust Fund to receive the funds generated from the premium and excise taxes imposed under this Act as well as from other specified revenues dedicated to the support of the plan. Directs the Secretary to provide for the: (1) submission of claims under new titles XXII and XVIII using uniform forms developed by the Health Care Cost Containment Commission established under title III of this Act; and (2) reporting to the Commission of information on required health services provided under such new titles pursuant to standards to be developed by the Commission. Sets forth administrative provisions applicable to the public health plan. Requires that the Secretary establish a toll-free telephone number for information on the public health plan. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct demonstration projects to: (1) improve the delivery and quality of health care services under new title XXII; and (2) increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the methods for paying for such services. Title III: Cost Containment - Sets a national limit on the health expenditures of the public health plan and qualified employer health plans for the services required to be covered for each year beginning in 1993. Indexes the limit each year to the rate of growth in the gross national product plus: (1) four percent for 1993 and 1994; (2) three percent for 1995 and 1996; (3) two percent for 1997 and 1998; (4) 1 percent for 1999 and 2000; and (5) zero percent for each year after 2000. Establishes the Health Care Cost Containment Commission to: (1) negotiate with health care providers to allocate national expenditures under the limit among the different classes of health care providers; (2) report annually to the Secretary on negotiation results and on the specific dollar amounts to be allocated to each class of providers; (3) review and approve or disapprove the ceilings for provider payment rates established below; (4) develop uniform reporting standards with respect to information involving the services required to be covered under the public health plan and under qualified employer health plans; (5) develop uniform claims forms for use under the public health plan, qualified employer health plans, and Medicare; (6) report periodically to the Congress and the public on the effect of this title on the delivery of such services; and (7) develop a national capital budget for health care facilities and equipment needed for the provision of such services. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Secretary to establish maximum payment rates that may be charged by providers under the public health plan or under qualified employer health plans for the services such plans are required to cover. Allows the use of State uniform payment rates for services under the public health plan, qualified employer health plans, and Medicare, under certain conditions. Title IV: Group Health Insurance Reform - Amends the Social Security Act and the Internal Revenue Code to, respectively: (1) add a new title XXIII under which the Secretary is required to develop specific standards to implement requirements which group health insurance plans provided by employers must be certified as meeting in order to be issued, and to maintain, their qualified status; and (2) impose an excise tax (set at 50 percent of the gross premiums received during the taxable year) on the issuer of such a group plan which fails to meet such standards, with specified exceptions. Requires that no such group plans discriminate on the basis of health status, claims experience, receipt of health care, medical history, or lack of evidence of insurability. Requires the same treatment for pre-existing condition exclusions as is required for qualified employer health plans. Requires any health insurance carrier which offers small employer health plans to register with the Secretary. Requires such carriers to offer such plans to all small employers within their community on a continuous, year-round basis. Allows a carrier to refuse to issue or renew or terminate a plan only for nonpayment of premiums and fraud or misrepresentation. Disallows a carrier from offering to, or issuing with respect to, a small employer a small employer health plan with a term of less than 12 months. Requires such carriers to offer a benefit package which contains only the basic benefits all other employers are required to provide to their employees and dependents. Prohibits a small employer carrier from varying the remuneration paid a broker for the sale or renewal of any small employer health plan based on the claims experience associated with the group to which the plan was sold. Details notice and other requirements applicable to renewals. Requires that premiums and age-sex adjustments for all small employer plans of the same entity must be: (1) established based on a single cohesive rating system which is applied consistently for all employer groups and is not designed to treat groups differently based on health or risk status; and (2) actuarially certified each year. Prescribes beneficiary classes for enrollment. Requires premiums to be community-rated for a particular geographic area. Details disclosure and recordkeeping requirements for small employer plans. Sets forth requirements for health maintenance organizations. Directs the Secretary to provide for the establishment of a toll-free telephone information and complaint system which provides for: (1) a system for the receipt and disposition of consumer complaints or inquiries regarding the compliance of health plans with the requirements of this title; and (2) information to small employers about carriers that offer small employer health plans in the area covered by the regulatory authority. Directs the Secretary to periodically publish the names of issuers of insured employment-related small employer health plans that have been found to meet the applicable requirements of this title. Title V: Changes in Medicare Program - Amends the Medicare program to: (1) reduce the age of eligibility for Medicare by one year in each year beginning on January 1, 1993 until the age for eligibility reaches 60 on January 1, 1997; (2) add annual screenings for colorectal cancer for individuals over age 50 and for breast cancer for women over age 64, vaccinations for influenza and tetanus-diphtheria, and well-child care services as program benefits; and (3) make technical and conforming changes in provisions with respect to Medicare enrollment and participation agreements that reflect the additions of new titles XXI and XXII and to ensure the coordination of low-income assistance for Medicare beneficiaries. Directs the Secretary to establish and provide for ongoing demonstration projects providing for the coverage of other specified preventive services under Medicare to determine whether to include the coverage of such services for all individuals enrolled under Medicare part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance). Requires reports to specified congressional committees describing the findings made under such demonstration projects and the Secretary's plans for future such demonstration projects. Authorizes appropriations. Directs the Director of the Office of Technology Assessment (OTA) to conduct a study to develop a process for the regular review of Medicare coverage of preventive services. Requires an OTA report to specified congressional committees on such study. Title VI: Financing Provisions - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide additional funding for universal health insurance coverage through the imposition of: (1) a surtax applicable to the regular income tax or alternative minimum tax owed by individuals, corporations, and estates and trusts beginning in taxable year 1993 at six percent of such taxpayer's tax liability and reaching nine percent after taxable year 1995; (2) an increase in the hospital insurance taxable wage base from $125,000 to $200,000; (3) an increase in the hospital insurance payroll tax imposed on both employers and employees from 1.45 percent to 1.55 percent in 1993 and to 1.65 percent in 1966 and thereafter; and (4) an increase in the self-employment tax from 2.90 percent to 3.10 percent in 1993 and to 3.30 percent in 1996 and thereafter. Sets forth special rules applicable to estate and trust and corporate liability for the health surtax. Extends the current deduction for health insurance costs of self-employed individuals for 1992 and modifies such deduction for subsequent years to entitle self-employed individuals and owners of personal service corporations to deduct 100 percent of their health insurance costs if they provide to all their employees who work 17 1/2 hours or more per week health coverage under a plan that would qualify as a qualified employer health plan under new title XXI of the Social Security Act. Provides that if such coverage is not provided, then the deduction for health insurance expenses of such individuals is limited to 25 percent, until after 1996 when the deduction is set unconditionally at 100 percent of the costs of health insurance coverage. Title VII: Medicaid Provisions - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act to: (1) limit Federal financial participation for services covered under the public health plan; (2) provide for the continuation of Medicaid benefits not covered under the public health plan and the nonduplication of benefits with the public health plan; and (3) require payments under State Medicaid programs to hospitals and physicians to be increased during the transition period to full implementation of universal health insurance coverage.
Bill· HRH.R. 3244 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
College Opportunity Act of 1991 - Title I: Institutional Aid - Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) with respect to institutional aid to historically black colleges and universities. Authorizes the use of grant funds to: (1) establish or enhance a program of teacher education designed to qualify students to teach in public elementary or secondary schools in the State; and (2) perform other proposed activities specifically approved by the Secretary of Education (the Secretary). Increases the minimum allotment to institutions. Revises a list of eligible professional or graduate institutions to eliminate the qualifier "independent" and to add: (1) during any fiscal year, either the Thurgood Marshall School of Law or the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (Graduate Program) (but not both), Texas Southern University; (2) North Carolina Central University School of Law; (3) Florida A & M College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (Graduate Program); and (4) Xavier University of Louisiana School of Pharmacy (Graduate Program). Sets forth special rules relating to the funding of such new institutions and others already on the list. Requires that Morehouse School of Medicine (an institution already on the list) receive at least a special minimum amount during a certain period when funding of such institutions may be ratably reduced. Repeals specified provisions for a challenge grant program for certain types of institutions. Revises provisions for endowment challenge grants program to: (1) reduce from ten years to five years the period after a grant has ended during which an institution is ineligible to reapply; (2) increase the maximum amount of such a grant to an institution in fiscal years when the appropriation exceeds a specified amount; and (3) eliminate the maximum limitation in any fiscal year when the appropriation exceeds a higher specified amount. Extends the authorization of appropriations for programs covered by this title. Requires the Secretary to set aside certain funds for challege grants to historically black colleges and universities. Title II: Student Assistance - Part A: Pell Grants - Extends the Pell Grants program. Sets forth increasing maximum amounts for individual Pell Grants through academic year 1996-1997. Requires entitlement-based allocation of Pell Grant program reimbursements of institutional advances while eliminating adjustments for insufficient appropriations. Requires institutions of higher education which have Pell Grant agreements with the Secretary to: (1) award the full amount of the Pell Grants to which their eligible students are entitled; (2) credit such awards toward student expenses; and (3) submit vouchers for reimbursement. Directs the Secretary to reimburse each institution submitting a proper voucher for the full amount of Pell Grant awards credited to eligible students. Requires each institution desiring to provide Pell grants to eligible students to enter specified types of agreements with the Secretary. Deems an institution, which has entered such an agreement, awarded such grants, and credited such awards, to have a contractual right against the United States (entitlement) to receive such reimbursements. Considers such reimbursements to be payments made for acquisition of services by contract with the Department of Education. Requires the institution to pay any amount of the Pell Grant that exceeds tuition and fees owed by the student to students who do not reside in institutionally-owned or -operated housing. Treats such amounts paid as amounts credited, and allows such funds to be used by the student to cover room, board, transportation, child care, books, and other costs of attendance. Eliminates a percentage-of-cost-of-attendance limitation on the amount of a Pell Grant. Provides for phase-in of the entitlement to Pell Grants. Part B: Perkins Loans - Revises the Perkins Loan program. Provides that no funds are authorized to be appropriated under such program: (1) after FY 1991, of initial allocations to institutions of higher education; and (2) after FY 1991, of initial allocations to institutions of higher-education; and (3) after FY 1996, to enable students who received such loans for academic years ending prior to October 1, 1991, to complete courses of study. Authorizes appropriations for administrative expenses of such program. Extends specified program provisions relating to distribution of assets from student loan funds. Requires program agreements with institutions of higher education to distribution of assets from student loan funds. Requires program agreements with institutions of higher education to provide for: (1) maintenance of a student loan fund, without additional allocations of funds from the Secretary to institutions, and with necessary modifications; and (2) an institutional option, with the Secretary's approval, to establish an income contingent repayment schedule for not more than ten percent of the total amount of student loans made in each academic year based upon specified income contingent repayment schedule in effect on September 30, 1991. Repeals authority for the Income Contingent Direct Loan Demonstration Project. Authorizes the Secretary to promulgate necessary regulations. Part C: Need Analysis - Applies simplified needs analysis to students who: (1) are receiving cash payments under the aid to families with dependent children (AFDC) program of the Social Security Act; (2) are receiving food stamps under the Food Stamp Act of 1977; or (3) qualify for and reside in public housing. Directs the Secretary to provide a streamlined application form for second-year students reapplying for student assistance and for subsequent year students from families that qualify for simplified needs analysis. States that such form shall require such students to submit concise updated information, including the relevant tax return form for the year preceding that for which the determination is made. Part D: Administration - Authorizes the Secretary to waive a specified student eligibility verification requirement for any eligible institution which the Secretary determines has had no audit exceptions for the three prior award years. Requires the Secretary, in carrying out the Robert T. Stafford Loan Program, to assure that the suspension or termination of any eligible institution based on calculation of the institution's cohort or other default rate: (1) not be arbitrary; (2) include total volume of dollars on default represented by the cohort default rate; and (3) be supported by the most accurate calculation of such rate available. Title III: Educator Recruitment, Retention, and Development - Part A: Paul Douglas Teacher Scholarships - Extends the authorization of appropriatons for the Paul Douglas Teacher Scholarships program. Extends the period of such scholarship program and increases the total maximum number of individuals who may receive scholarships under it. Establishes a minority teaching incentive award of an additional $1,000 for each year of such a scholarship, which the State agency must agree to pay to any minority recipient who agrees to perform the required teaching under such scholarship program in an elementary or secondary school of a local educational agency with a significant number of minority students. Requires statewide panels to give priority when selecting new scholarship recipients to applicants who are members of groups underrepresented in the teaching profession, such as minorities and individuals with disabilities. Part B: Christa McAuliffe Fellowships - Extends the authorization of appropriations for the Christa McAuliffe Fellowship program for teachers. Part C: New Teacher Programs for the Improvement of the Education of Minorities - Provides for teacher recruitment for the improvement of the education of minorities. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to institutions of higher education with schools or departments of education to pay the Federal share of programs to: (1) recruit, prepare, and train students to become elementary and secondary school teachers; and (2) place students as teachers in urban and rural local educational agencies having 50 percent minority student enrollment in their elementary and secondary schools. Requires special consideration to be given to historically black colleges and universities in making such grants. Sets forth requirements for grant uses, applications, and Federal share. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to partnerships composed of institutions of higher education and local educational agencies for programs to identify and encourage minority students in the seventh through twelfth grades to aspire to and prepare for careers in elementary and secondary school teaching. Authorizes grants to consortia of institutions of higher education with special expertise which have entered a partnership agreement. Sets forth grant selection criteria, partnership agreement requirements, authorized uses of funds, and application requirements. Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: Additional Reauthorizations and Revisions Part A: Academic Libraries - Extends the authorization of appropriations for: (1) college library resources; (2) library training, research, and development; (3) strengthening of research library resources (but requiring that awards first be made to the libraries at North Carolina Central University and Clark Atlanta University); and (4) college library technology and cooperation grants. Part B: International Education - Authorizes the establishment of a program to significantly increase the numbers of African Americans and other minorities in the foreign service of the United States. Requires such academic and professional program to be established in the Institute for International Public Policy at Howard University (Washington, D.C.) (the Institute), created by this Act. Allows any institution of higher education that wishes to participate in any or all aspects of such program to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with Howard University. Sets forth the components of the academic program of the Institute, including a junior year abroad, academic year and summer internships, a masters degree program, and Ralph Bunche International Fellowships for graduate study at Howard University or other institutions for students who agree to serve two years in the U.S. foreign service for each year of the fellowship. Requires appointment of a Board of Visitors for the Institute. Sets forth matching requirements and provisions for gifts and donations. Requires Howard University and any institutions of higher education in consortium with it to delegate to a nonprofit institution in the District of Columbia the administration of the Foreign Service Examination preparative and the International Careers Program, which may include the Junior Year Abroad and the Academic Year and Summer Internship programs. Authorizes appropriatons. Part C: Graduate Education - Revises the program for grants to institutions to encourage minorities to enter the higher education professorate (currently, grants to institutions to encourage minority participation in graduate education). Directs the Secretary to make grants to institutions of higher education (or to nonprofit organizations associated with such institutions with a demonstrated record of enhancing minority access to graduate education), in consortia with historically black colleges and universities and other institutions with significant enrollments of African Americans, Asian Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Native Americans. States that such grants shall enable such institutions to: (1) identify talented canidates for and recipients of baccalaureate degrees and faculty who wish to enter or continue in the higher education professorate; and (2) provide such students and faculty with stipends and fellowships to assist them in obtaining a doctoral degree and returning to an institution of higher education to teach. Designates such fellowships as the Augustus F. Hawkins Fellowships. Sets forth application and selection requirements. Requires each Hawkins Fellowship recipient to agree to teach at an institution of higher education for two years for every one year of fellowship assistance, or else repay the fellowship. Sets forth repayment procedures and exceptions.
Bill· HRH.R. 3265 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
National Energy Resources Act of 1991 - Title I: Energy Efficiency - Subtitle A: Average Fuel Economy Standards - Amends the Motor Vehicles Information and Cost Savings Act to: (1) prescribe average fuel economy standards for passenger vehicles for model year 1996 and beyond; and (2) direct the Secretary of Transportation (the Secretary) to prescribe average fuel economy standards for non-passenger vehicles (light trucks) for model years ending before model year 1996. Prescribes average fuel economy standards for passenger automobiles for model years 1996 and thereafter. Permits persons to petition for modification of such standards. Subtitle B: Federal Energy Management - Amends the National Energy Conservation Policy Act to set a deadline by which each Federal agency shall install in Federal buildings under its control energy conservation projects with prescribed payback periods. Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to modify the average fuel economy standards required of the Federal passenger automobile fleets. Subtitle C: Tax Treatment of Transportation Benefits Provided by Employer - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to prescribe tax treatment of qualified transportation benefits. Subtitle D: Amendments to Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 - Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to mandate that each State regulatory authority adopt a specified Federal standard regarding gas and electric utility incentives to implement demand-side management programs and least cost supply measures. Subtitle E: Energy and Water Conservation Subsidies - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to declare that gross income shall not include the value of any subsidy provided by a public utility to a customer for the purchase of installation of any energy or water conservation measure. Subtitle F: Development of Recycling Markets - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish within the Department of Commerce the Bureau of Recyclable Commodities to promote the use of recovered materials diverted from solid waste. Prescribes implementation measures. Subtitle G: State and Local Building Codes - Amends the National Energy Conservation Policy Act to direct the Secretary of Energy to establish: (1) a program to provide technical assistance to States and localities to update energy efficiency provisions of residential and commercial building codes; and (2) a task force to advise in the development of such program. Prescribes implementation measures. Subtitle H: Lighting Standards and Labeling - Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish test procedures and develop an energy conservation standard for lamps, motors, commercial air conditioners, and heating equipment. Title II: Domestic Resources - Subtitle A: Coal Technologies - Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) conduct and report to certain congressional committees on a research and demonstration program for advanced coal-based technologies to achieve the control of certain oxides and the development of cost-effective energy technologies; and (2) submit to the Congress a research, development and demonstration plan for technologies for the non-fuel use of coal. Subtitle B: Strategic Petroleum Reserve Amendments - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to grant the President additional authority to drawdown or distribute reserves pursuant to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve Plan if it is determined that implementation of the Distribution Plan would assist in relieving severe economic problems directly related to a significant increase in petroleum product prices. Directs the Secretary of Energy to implement during FY 1992: (1) a program for filling the Reserve at a specified annual rate so that the quantity of crude oil in storage within the Reserve reaches a specified level; and (2) a regional refined product reserve in the northeast region of the United States. Subtitle C: Used Oil Recycling Program - Requires certain producers and importers of lubricating oil to refine, re-refine, or re-process used oil into petroleum products in an amount determined according to specified formula. Requires the Secretary of Energy to issue regulations implementing such requirement. Authorizes appropriations. Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to prohibit the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from listing or identifying used oil as a hazardous waste. Subtitle D: Transportation of Natural Gas - Amends the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 to authorize the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to permit: (1) any interstate pipeline to transport natural gas on behalf of any other person; and (2) the construction of natural gas transportation facilities. Makes FERC the lead agency with primary authority for National Environmental Protection Act compliance for such construction projects. Title III: Alternative Energy - Subtitle A: Alternative Fueled Vehicles - Sets forth a timetable by which certain percentages of Federal fleets of passenger automobiles or light-duty trucks must use alternative fuels. Subtitle B: Tax Incentives for Production of Electricity From Renewables - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide tax credits for the production of electricity from solar, wind, or geothermal sources (i.e. renewable resources) for a ten-year period. Title IV: Research and Development - Subtitle A: Joint Ventures for Renewable Energy Development for Oil Displacement - Amends the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Technology Competitiveness Act of 1989 to direct the Secretary of Energy to solicit proposals and provide financial assistance to joint ventures for the commercialization of specified renewable energy technologies, and for the demonstration of fuel cells technology. Authorizes appropriations. Subtitle B: Technology Transfer - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to authorize the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to use the resources of the Department of Energy to enhance educational opportunities in science, mathematics and engineering for American students and educators in order to improve the scientific competitiveness of the United States. Directs the Secretary of Energy to establish programs that use the scientific resources of the Department of Energy to promote technology transfers and enhance technology commercialization. Authorizes appropriations. Subtitle C: Research Funding Priorities - Sets forth criteria for research funding priorities. Subtitle D: Math and Science Education Programs - Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to authorize the NRC to use the resources of the Department of Energy in cooperation with the Department of Education to enhance educational opportunities in science and mathematics for American students and educators. Directs the Secretary of Energy, in cooperation with the Secretary of Education, to: (1) establish programs using Department of Energy measures to enhance mathematics and science education in the United States; and (2) make grants (or enter into cooperative agreements with appropriate entities) to develop a comprehensive primary and secondary school math and science curriculum regarding the interdependency of energy and the environment. Title V: Low Income, Affordability, and State Programs - Amends the Energy Conservation and Production Act to authorize appropriations through FY 1996 for: (1) the weatherization assistance program; and (2) the energy conservation program for schools and hospitals.
Bill· HRH.R. 3267 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Title I: International Monetary Fund - Amends the Bretton Woods Agreements Act to authorize the U.S. Governor of the International Monetary Fund to consent to: (1) an increase in the U.S. quota in the Fund; and (2) the amendments to the Articles of Agreement of the Fund approved in resolution 45-3 of the Fund's Board of Governors. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to instruct the U.S. Executive Director of the Fund to approve the Fund's pledge to sell a specified amount of the Fund's gold to restore the resources of the Reserve Account of the Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility Trust to meet obligations to lenders who have made loans to the Trust for financing programs of members previously in arrears to the Fund. Title II: International Finance Corporation - Amends the International Finance Corporation Act to authorize the U.S. Governor of the International Finance Corporation to vote for an increase in, and subscribe to additional shares of, the Corporation's capital stock. Authorizes appropriations. Title III: Asian Development Bank - Amends the Asian Development Bank Act to authorize the U.S. Governor of the Asian Development Bank Act to subscribe to additional shares of the Bank's capital stock. Authorizes appropriations. Title IV: African Development Fund - Amends the African Development Fund Act to authorize the U.S. Governor of the African Development Fund to contribute a specified amount to the sixth replenishment of the Fund. Authorizes appropriations. Title V: Enterprise for the Americas Initiative - Enterprise for the Americas Initiative Act of 1991 - Subtitle A: Provisions Relating to the Enterprise for the Americas Investment Fund at the Inter-American Development Bank - Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to contribute a grant to the Enterprise for the Americas Investment Fund to be administered by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). Authorizes appropriations. Requires the Fund to: (1) provide grants to advance market-oriented policy initiatives and reforms to encourage investment in Latin America and the Caribbean; and (2) finance technical assistance for privatizing government-owned industries, enterprise development and business infrastructure, and worker training and education programs. Permits the Secretary to seek contributions to the Fund from other countries. Subtitle B: Enterprise for the Americas Facility - Establishes in the Department of the Treasury the Enterprise for the Americas Facility to support improvement in the lives of the people of Latin America and the Caribbean through market-oriented reforms and economic growth with actions to promote debt reduction, investment reforms, trade liberalization, and community based conservation and sustainable use of the environment. Makes eligible for Facility benefits Latin American or Caribbean countries that: (1) have in effect, received approval for, or are making progress toward, specified International Monetary Fund arrangements and structural or sectoral adjustment loans from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development or the International Development Association; (2) have put in place major investment reforms in conjunction with an IDB loan or are implementing or making progress toward an open investment regime; and (3) have agreed with commercial bank lenders on a financing program for debt or debt service reduction. Subtitle C: Debt Reduction - Authorizes the President to reduce the amount owed to the United States (as a result of concessional loans made pursuant to the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 or predecessor foreign economic assistance legislation) by any country eligible for Facility benefits. Declares that this title may be exercised notwithstanding provisions of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and the International Development and Food Assistance Act of 1975 concerning repayments of loans outstanding after September 19, 1966, and the settlement of debts owed to the United States. Sets forth requirements with respect to the exchange of obligations, repayment of principal, and interest on new obligations issued by beneficiary countries. Subtitle D: Enterprise for the Americas Environmental Funds - Requires beneficiary countries that enter into Environmental Framework Agreements to establish Enterprise for the Americas Environmental Funds. Authorizes the President to enter into Environmental Framework Agreements concerning the operation and use of Environmental Funds with countries eligible for Facility benefits. Directs administering bodies in each beneficiary country to administer the Environmental Funds and to make grants for environmental activities. Requires grants from the Funds to be used for activities that link the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources with local community development. Subjects grants of more than $100,000 to veto by the U.S. Government or the government of the beneficiary country. Establishes an Environment for the Americas Board to: (1) advise the Secretary on the negotiations of Environmental Framework Agreements; (2) ensure that a suitable administering body is identified for each Environmental Fund; and (3) review the programs, operations, and fiscal audits of administering bodies. Declares that the President should: (1) encourage other official creditors of beneficiary countries whose debt is reduced under this Act to provide debt reduction to such countries; and (2) ensure that Environmental Funds are able to receive donations from private and public entities and private creditors of beneficiary countries. Subtitle E: Sales, Reductions, or Cancellations of Loans or Assets - Authorizes the President to: (1) sell to any eligible purchaser any loan of an eligible country made pursuant to the Export-Import Bank Act of 1945; (2) sell to any eligible purchaser any asset acquired by the Commodity Credit Corporation in connection with export sales to an eligible country or specified export credit guarantee programs; and (3) reduce or cancel any loans or assets made or acquired before 1991 upon receipt of payment from an eligible purchaser. Permits loans or assets to be sold only to purchasers who present plans to the President for using such loans or assets to engage in debt-for-equity, debt-for-development, or debt-for-nature swaps. Authorizes loans or assets to be reduced or canceled only for purposes of facilitating such swaps. Subtitle F: Reports - Directs the President to report annually to the Speaker of the House and the President of the Senate on the Facility.
Bill· HRH.R. 3266 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Amends the International Organizations Immunities Act to make an exemption from property taxes inapplicable to property of an international organization used for commercial activities in the United States.
Bill· HRH.R. 3219 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Amends the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act to direct the Administrator of General Services to prescribe regulations to ensure the participation of (except in specified circumstances) at least five historically Black colleges and universities and nonprofit organizations owned and controlled by Black Americans in research and development (R&D) activities conducted with Federal funds by executive agencies. Outlines the requirements to be imposed on executive agencies through such regulations, including the requirement that each such agency reserve a specified percent of its FY 1992 through 1995 appropriations for R&D activities to be conducted by the Black colleges it must designate under this Act as federally funded R&D centers. Increases such set-aside on a graduated basis for such fiscal years. Directs the Comptroller General to study and report to the Congress annually on the activities of executive agencies in carrying out this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 3286 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to include the following categories of employees as eligible for the targeted jobs credit: (1) an eligible job opportunities program employee; (2) a qualified older American; (3) a qualified dislocated worker; (4) an unemployment compensation exhaustee; (5) a qualified JTPA (Jobs Training Partnership Act) trained individual; and (6) a displaced homemaker. Makes such credit permanent law.
Bill· HRH.R. 3278 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide for an inflation adjustment to the inclusion in gross income of old-age, survivors and disability insurance and certain railroad retirement benefits when there is an increase in such benefits.
Bill· HRH.R. 3262 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code, with respect to capital gains and losses, to restore the prior law treatment of corporate reorganizations by providing a special rule for determining issue price in the case of exchange of debt instruments in such reorganizations.
Bill· HRH.R. 3273 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Semiconductor Investment Act of 1991 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to classify the depreciable life for semiconductor manufacturing equipment as three-year property.
Bill· HRH.R. 3242 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to expand current provisions concerning civil damages for certain unauthorized collection actions to allow taxpayers to sue for civil damages if in the determination of tax the Internal Revenue Service carelessly disregards tax law. Repeals the "substantially justified" test for determining whether a taxpayer may recover costs and fees incurred as part of an administrative or court proceeding. Amends the Internal Revenue Code to increase the interest rate for overpayment of tax from two percent to three percent (making such rate equal to the interest rate for underpayment of tax).
Bill· HRH.R. 3230 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code (with respect to the excise tax on failure to satisfy continuation coverage requirements of group health plans) to provide for continuation of health plan coverage in cases where failed financial institutions are taken over by Federal entities or other financial institutions.
Bill· HRH.R. 3264 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Petroleum Producers Burden Sharing Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to reinstate the windfall profit tax on domestic crude oil. Terminates such tax: (1) after the expiration of the first four calendar quarters beginning after the date of enactment of this section; or (2) after the expiration of the first six such calendar quarters, if the President determines that a continuing energy price crisis exists. Establishes the Energy Support Trust Fund to fund the weatherization program under the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act of 1976 and other programs for the conservation of energy. Transfers to such Fund the taxes received from the windfall profit tax on domestic crude oil.
Bill· HRH.R. 3225 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a tax credit for contributions to candidates for congressional offices for the State of which the taxpayer is a resident. Limits such contribution to $100 ($200 in the case of a joint return). Disallows such credit for an estate or trust.
Bill· HRH.R. 3202 (102nd)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 1991
Tax Reduction and Simplification Act of 1991 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) increase the basic standard deduction; (2) establish an additional standard deduction for dependents; and (3) provide an inflation adjustment for such deductions after calendar year 1991. Reduces individual itemized deduction by ten percent (to offset the reductions in Federal revenues made by this Act).