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Bill· HRH.R. 3243 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 1989
Amends Federal transportation law to authorize a person to assert that it would be an unreasonable practice for a motor common carrier or a nonhousehold goods freight forwarder to seek to collect tariff rates or charges in addition to those originally billed and collected, or to impose rules, classifications, or practices permitting such a collection. Declares that the Interstate Commerce Commission shall determine whether or not such a collection or imposition is an unreasonable practice violating Federal law. Shortens the statute of limitations for the filing of claims: (1) by a motor common carrier for recovery of transportation or service charges; and (2) by a person to recover overcharges by a motor carrier. Decreases the limitation period for both kinds of claims from 36 months to: (1) 24 months for claim accruals during the year following enactment of this Act; and (2) 18 months for claim accruals on or after one year following enactment. Permits motor carriers and shippers to resolve by mutual consent, subject to Commission review, any overcharge and undercharge claims resulting from billing errors or incorrect tariff provisions arising from the inadvertent failure to properly and timely file and maintain agreed upon rates, rules, or classifications, or under circumstances where application of the filed tariff would be an unreasonable practice.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 174 (101st)passed
United States · United States Congress · 7 September 1989
Commends the crew members of, and Federal Aviation Administration personnel involved with, United flight 232 for their efforts on behalf of the passengers of that flight.
Bill· HRH.R. 3229 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 7 September 1989
Amends the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act to direct the Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations for the safe transportation of hazardous materials in domestic and foreign commerce (including route designations). Cites the area in which Federal regulations preempt State and local hazardous materials transportation requirements. Authorizes the Secretary to promulgate regulations for dispute resolution among the States or local governments regarding hazardous materials highway route designations. Permits States or local governments to petition for judicial review of the dispute resolution decision. Grants the Secretary discretion to either adopt or reject hazardous materials transportation standards adopted by international bodies according to the Secretary's perception of the public interest. Prohibits a person from representing that: (1) a container for the transportation of hazardous materials is safe and in compliance with the requirements of this Act if it is not; or (2) a hazardous material is present in such a container, motor vehicle, rail freight car, aircraft, or vessel if such material is not present. Prohibits a person from altering: (1) any label or description on any document required by this Act; or (2) any container, motor vehicle, rail freight car, aircraft, or vessel used for the transportation of such hazardous materials. Requires motor carriers of specified hazardous materials (including radioactive materials) to possess a valid safety permit issued by the Secretary authorizing the carrier to engage in such transportation. Cites circumstances under which such permits may be suspended or revoked. Amends the definition of radioactive materials to state that it does not include any materials determined by the Secretary to be of such low radioactivity that they do not pose a significant hazard when transported. Revises the scope of civil penalties to impose liability for violations of orders issued under this Act. Declares that no U.S. employee shall be personally liable for any civil penalty arising from the performance of such employee's duties, for which the employee is not otherwise liable. Prescribes guidelines under which the preemption of State laws conflicting with this Act shall be determined. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990 through 1991.
Bill· SS. 1533 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1989
Declares that, notwithstanding provisions prohibiting the transportation of passengers between points in the United States in foreign vessels, passengers may be transported in foreign flag cruise vessels between ports in Alaska and between ports in Alaska and other U.S. ports. Requires the termination of such service one year after a U.S. cruise vessel, meeting other requirements, offers or advertises such service, subject to exception. Requires termination notices to be issued in the reverse of the order in which the foreign vessels entered the coastwise service under these provisions and only in such number as to ensure that the passenger-carrying capacity removed is equal to or minimally greater than the capacity of the U.S. vessel entering service.
Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 191 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1989
Designates September 14, 1989, the 50th anniversary of the first flight of the VS-300 helicopter by aviation pioneer Igor Sikorsky and his 100th birthday, as National Helicopter Day.
Bill· HRH.R. 3185 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1989
Amendments to the Merchant Marine Act, 1920 - Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1920 to authorize and direct the Federal Maritime Commission to make rules and regulations regarding intermodal movements, terminal operations, cargo solicitation, forwarding and agency services, non-vessel-operating common carrier operations, and other activities integral to transportation systems. Authorizes the Commission, in furtherance of the purposes of such Act, to initiate rules and regulations on its own motion or pursuant to a petition by a person. Authorizes the Commission to require a person to file information with the Commission. Makes a person who fails to file such required information liable for civil fines. Empowers the Commission to authorize a party to use depositions, written interrogatories, and discovery procedures in conformity, to the extent practicable, with those of the U.S. district courts. Grants the Commission subpoena power. Entitles, subject to funds being appropriated, witnesses to the same fees and mileage as in U.S. courts. Authorizes the Commission, for failure to supply information ordered or subpoenaed, to: (1) suspend tariffs of a common carrier or suspend that carrier's right to use tariffs of conferences of which it is a member; or (2) assess a civil fine. Authorizes the Commission to seek enforcement of such information order or subpoena in U.S. district court. Authorizes the Commission, notwithstanding another law, to refuse to disclose to the public information provided under certain provisions amended by this Act. Authorizes the Commission, upon its finding of conditions unfavorable to shipping in the foreign trade of the United States, to: (1) limit sailings; (2) suspend tariffs; (3) suspend a common carrier's right to operate under an agreement filed with the Commission; (4) impose a per-voyage fee up to a specified amount; or (5) take any other action the Commission finds necessary and appropriate. Requires the collector of customs, upon request by the Commission, to: (1) refuse clearance to a vessel of a country named in a rule or regulation issued by the Commission; and (2) collect any such per-voyage fees imposed by the Commission. Requires the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating, with regard to a vessel of a country so named by the Commission, to: (1) deny entry, for purpose of oceanborne trade, into the United States; or (2) detain from leaving a place in the United States for another place in the United States. Makes a common carrier which accepts or handles cargo under a tariff which has been suspended as provided in this Act or after its right to use another tariff has been so suspended subject to a civil fine. Authorizes the Commission to consult with other Government agencies before taking action under the provisions amended by this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 3190 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1989
Railroad Event Recorder Act - Amends the Federal Railroad Safety Act of 1970 to require the Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations (previously, within 18 months after June 22, 1988) requiring all new locomotives constructed after such regulations are issued to be equipped with event recorders (previously, within one year after such regulations are issued). Requires all other locomotives to be equipped with such recorders by a specified date. Authorizes the National Transportation Safety Board to have access to such recorders following an accident.
Bill· HRH.R. 3149 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1989
Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to prohibit the Secretary of Transportation, for a one year period, from approving the transfer of any certificate authorizing the provision of foreign air transportation except if such transfer is part of the sale of the air carrier holding such certificate.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 189 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 August 1989
Expresses the sense of the Congress that the President: (1) is to be commended for his actions thus far in combatting terrorism; (2) should aggressively pursue increased cooperation with our allies and with the Soviet Union in preventing and responding to terrorism; and (3) should immediately conduct a comprehensive assessment of U.S. antiterrorism policy by reviewing the 1986 Report of the Vice President's Task Force on Combatting Terrorism. Specifies that such review should include recommendations for changes in laws, policies, and regulations necessary to protect commercial air transport and on policy criteria for determining when, if, and how to use force to preempt, react to, and retaliate in the event of terrorist incidents. Provides that the result of such review should be made available to the Congress and the public in an unclassified form. Urges the President to: (1) take actions in cooperation with the Congress designed to implement recommendations resulting from such review; (2) persist in his efforts to combat terrorism; and (3) announce publicly the determination of the United States to act firmly and decisively in pursuing every available legal means to eliminate terrorism and bring terrorists to justice.
Bill· SS. 1512 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1989
Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1989 - Title I: Authorizations for Coast Guard Authorization of Funds for Fiscal Year 1990 - Authorizes appropriations for the Coast Guard for FY 1990 and 1991 for: (1) operation and maintenance; (2) acquisition, construction, rebuilding, and improvement for aids to navigation, shore and offshore facilities, vessels, and aircraft; (3) research, development, test, and evaluation; and (4) retirement pay and benefits. Authorizes the end strength for active-duty personnel of the Coast Guard for FY 1990 and 1991. Specifies the authorized average military training student load for the Coast Guard for FY 1990 and 1991. Amends Federal law providing for continuity of grade for Coast Guard vice admirals when reappointed to another position as vice admiral to include reappointment of a vice admiral as an admiral. Amends Federal law relating to appointment of Coast Guard personnel to state that the advice and consent of the Senate is not required for appointments in the grade of lieutenant (junior grade) or lieutenant. Directs the Secretary to furnish the board that recommends continuation of captains on active duty with the number of officers that may be so recommended, which number must be no less than 50 percent (currently 75 percent) of the number considered. Authorizes the Commandant of the Coast Guard to involuntarily retire enlisted personnel who have 20 years of service. (Current law allows such action by the Commandant on a recommendation by a Coast Guard Enlisted Personnel Board.) Provides that, subject to any memorandum of understanding entered into between the Secretary of the Navy and the Secretary of Transportation, when the Coast Guard transfers to and operates in its entirety as a service in the Navy, the appropriations, funding, functions, powers, and duties relating to the Coast Guard are also transferred to the Secretary of the Navy. Authorizes those Secretaries to provide, by memorandum of understanding, for the transfer of additional functions, powers, and duties. Amends the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships to require reception facilities to meet the requirements of Annex I and Annex II (currently, Annex V) to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973 in order for the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to issue a certificate to that effect. Authorizes the Secretary to inspect a ship for possible violations of the Act as well as for possible violations of Annex I or Annex II of the Convention, and to undertake enforcement action for a violation of the Act as well as for a violation of the MARPOL Protocol. Makes it unlawful for any master, operator, or person in charge of a vessel, with regard to lawful actions and orders by the Coast Guard, to: (1) fail to allow boarding; (2) fail to comply with an order; (3) impede or obstruct a boarding or arrest; or (4) provide certain types of false information. Provides for criminal and civil penalties, seizure and forfeiture of vessels, and withholding or revocation of clearance. Amends Federal law to increase the maximum civil penalty for violating provisions relating to the use of a pilot in certain circumstances during operation of a vessel in the Great Lakes. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to upgrade the ground segment of the Search and Rescue Satellite Aided Tracking System (SARSAT). Directs the Secretary to establish at least five SARSAT ground stations to provide adequate coverage of the U.S. area of search and rescue for which it has responsibility under the COSPAS-SARSAT program. Directs the Secretary of Commerce, acting through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, to administer the SARSAT ground stations, in consultation with the Secretaries of Transportation and of Defense. Authorizes appropriations for upgrading and establishing the ground stations. Title II: Bridge Administration Transfer - Bridge Administration Transfer Act - Transfers from the Secretary of Transportation to the Secretary of the Army, with specified exceptions, the administration of bridges and causeways over navigable waters, including all related authority, functions, and duties. Makes such transfer effective within one year of this Act's enactment. Makes conforming amendments to the Rivers and Harbors Appropriations Act of 1899, the Bridge Act of 1906, the Truman-Hobbs Act, the General Bridge Act of 1946, and the International Bridge Act of 1972. Directs the Secretary of the Army to submit to the Congress a compilation of Federal laws relating to waterway structure administration.
Bill· HRH.R. 3107 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1989
Schoolbus Loading Zone Safety Act of 1989 - Amends the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 to require the Secretary of Transportation to establish Federal motor vehicle safety standards requiring that a schoolbus be equipped with a stop signal arm and with a system of mirrors giving the driver a view of the area under the front of the schoolbus. Requires the Secretary to report to the Congress on the number of schoolbuses manufactured before April 1, 1977, that are currently being used as schoolbuses.
Bill· HRH.R. 3109 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 August 1989
Schoolbus Safety Measures Act of 1989 - Amends the Highway Safety Act of 1987 to require the Secretary of Transportation to develop a program for instructing elementary schoolchildren and schoolbus drivers in schoolbus safety measures. Authorizes the use of grant funds to install stop safety arms and mirrors to enable the driver to view the area directly under the front of the schoolbus. Prohibits a State from receiving grant funds under such Act during a fiscal year unless the Governor of the State certifies that each public school in the State will conduct the schoolbus safety programs developed under this Act.
Bill· SS. 1461 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 1989
Oil Tanker Navigation Safety Act of 1989 - Title I: Provisions Applicable Nationally - Directs the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to initiate a rulemaking proceeding to require each affected oil tanker transiting pilotage waters, except when a qualified State licensed pilot provides the pilotage, to have a specified number of personnel on its navigation bridge. Amends the National Driver Register Act of 1982 to permit an individual who has applied for or received a mariner's document, certificate of registry, or license to operate a commercial vessel to request the chief driver licensing official of a State to transmit certain information regarding such individual to the Commandant of the Coast Guard. Sets forth specified requirements relating to access to such information. Provides for suspension and revocation of such mariner's document, certificate of registry, or license. Requires the Commandant to initiate a rulemaking proceeding to require each individual who has applied for or received such a document, certificate, or license to: (1) request the chief driver licensing official of each State in which he or she has within five years applied for or held a motor vehicle operator's license to provide the Commandant with certain driving record information. Amends Federal law to require the Secretary to issue a final rule to require periodic, as well as post-accident, testing for use of alcohol by individuals who, pursuant to licenses or merchant mariner's documents, perform safety sensitive functions on affected oil tankers. Requires the Secretary to conduct a rulemaking proceeding to determine whether to require that the Coast Guard be informed whenever an individual who has applied for or received a license or merchant mariner's document to perform such safety sensitive functions is undergoing treatment in an alcohol rehabilitation program. Directs the Secretary to temporarily suspend and take possession of the license or merchant mariner's document pending a hearing if there is probable cause to believe that such individual: (1) has served in such capacity while impaired by or under the influence of alcohol; (2) has been denied or has had any cancellation, revocation, or suspension of a motor vehicle operator's license by a State for cause within the previous five years; or (3) has been convicted of specified offenses within the previous five years. Requires the Secretary to report to specified congressional committees a list of U.S. ports that need improved Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) systems. Authorizes the Secretary to establish a system for the collection of payments by users of such VTS systems in such ports. Requires the Secretary to complete a rulemaking proceeding to determine whether to require that electronic means of vessel position-reporting and identification be carried on board affected oil tankers. Requires the Secretary to complete a rulemaking proceeding to require all newly constructed oil tankers to be equipped with double hulls and double bottoms, except to the extent such requirements will not enhance oil tanker navigation safety. Requires the Secretary to report to specified congressional committees on the size of each affected oil tanker. Requires the Secretary to issue final regulations requiring operators of such tankers to submit to the Secretary for approval a contingency plan for the prevention and cleanup of oilspills from their oil tankers. Specifies items to be included in such plans. Provides for: (1) regular inspection of such oil tankers; (2) approval of contingency plans; (3) the legal effect of such plans; (4) public awareness and practice drills with respect to such plans; (5) guidelines for maximum probable oilspills; and (6) action by the Secretary in the event of an oilspill. Requires the Secretary to develop and periodically update an international inventory of oilspill equipment and personnel available to the United States in the event of an oil spill within U.S. waters. Declares that the Secretary shall require any person with which the Coast Guard contracts for the containment or cleanup of an oilspill to report to the Coast Guard information for such inventory. Directs the Secretary to establish a National Council on Oilspill Technology Research and Development to conduct a study of governmental and nongovernmental research on oilspill containment and cleanup. Amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to make an oilspill a major disaster for disaster assistance purposes. Authorizes the Secretary to deny the right to enter U.S. waters to affected oil tankers that operate in violation of this Act. Sets forth both civil and criminal penalties. Requires the Secretary to submit to specified congressional committees a report on the need, if any, to impose fees upon operators of affected oil tankers or other persons to offset additional costs of implementing this Act. Title II: Provisions Applicable With Respect to Alaska Pilotage at Port of Valdez - Directs the Secretary to initiate a rulemaking proceeding to require that all oil tankers entering and departing the Port of Valdez, Alaska, embark and disembark a pilot licensed in Alaska at locations that will ensure that pilotage of such tankers in certain areas is provided by such State pilots. Requires the Secretary to install an automated navigation light on Bligh Reef in Prince William Sound, Alaska. Directs the Secretary to: (1) install additional radar equipment and train such personnel with respect to the VTS system at the Port of Valdez; and (2) submit to specified congressional committees a report on instituting Coast Guard control on oil tanker movements in Prince William Sound with the use of such system. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish a Prince William Sound Oilspill Recovery Institute, to be administered by the Secretary of Commerce through the University of Alaska Institute of Marine Studies. Requires the Institute to conduct research and educational and demonstration projects with respect to the effects of oilspills on the environment and ways to deal with their cleanup. Declares that the policies of the Institute shall be determined by an Advisory Board composed of specified representatives from State and Federal agencies, with the Secretary of Commerce as Chairman. Directs the Advisory Board to establish a Scientific and Technical Committee composed of specialists in oilspill containment and cleanup technology from the University of Alaska and elsewhere. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1989 through 1999. Amends the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Authorization Act to raise the limit on strict liability claims against the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Liability Fund for oil spills from $100,000,000 to $750,000,000. Increases the joint and several liability of vessel owners from $14,000,000 to $70,000,000. Sets forth specified requirements with respect to such Fund. Title III: Provisions Applicable to Mississippi River Radio Communications on Mississippi River - Requires the Secretary to issue regulations to ensure that vessels transiting the Mississippi River shall have specified safety navigation capabilities.
Bill· HRH.R. 3051 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 28 July 1989
Mandates that a portion of Federal highway funds be withheld from States that do not enact and enforce laws requiring the suspension or revocation of driver's licenses of persons convicted of drug-related criminal offenses. Sets forth provisions for determining the period of availability of withheld funds and the disposition of such funds in cases of noncompliance with such requirement.
Bill· HRH.R. 3025 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 27 July 1989
Authorizes airports to transfer, without consideration, to the Federal Aviation Administration instrument landing systems that have been purchased with the assistance of an airport improvement program grant made on or after September 1, 1987, and before enactment of this Act.
Bill· SS. 1412 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 July 1989
Essential Air Service Preservation Act of 1989 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to make funds from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund available for the essential air transportation program under the Federal Aviation Act of 1958. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to enter into contracts and agreements to provide essential air services prior to September 30, 1998.
Resolution· SCONRESS.Con.Res. 56 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1989
Declares it is U.S. policy to provide a national air transportation system which: (1) enhances the general welfare and security of the United States; and (2) is free of regulations which unreasonably burden or restrict the right of citizens to travel by air. Requires the President to submit to the Congress a plan for a new comprehensive national aviation policy.
Bill· HRH.R. 3002 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1989
Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1936 to extend indefinitely, with regard to certain cargo preference provisions, the requirement that the Secretary of Transportation take steps to preserve the percentage share, or metric tonnage of bagged, processed, or fortified commodities experienced in calendar year 1984, of waterborne cargoes exported from Great Lakes ports pursuant to specified provisions of the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954.
Bill· HRH.R. 3003 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 1989
Great Lakes Oilspill Prevention Act - Title I: Great Lakes Oilspill Response - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to: (1) review Federal, State, local, and private oilspill contingency plans for the Great Lakes region; and (2) report to the Congress any changes in such plans to better protect the Great Lakes environment and natural resources from the effects of an oilspill. Requires the Secretary to consult with specified entities with expertise in oilspill response and containment. Requires the Secretary to transmit to the Congress a report on existing Federal, State, and local oilspill response capabilities. Title II: Great Lakes Vessel Manning - Authorizes a member of a vessel to serve as the pilot required in Great Lakes waters not designated by the President for the route being navigated, if such member is: (1) a U.S. citizen who has a pilot license; or (2) a Canadian citizen who has an equivalent pilot license. Authorizes a vessel to operate in waters of the Great Lakes without a U.S. or Canadian registered pilot when the Secretary notifies the master that a registered pilot is not available, except for specified regulated vessels. Makes vessels liable in rem for rates and charges for pilotage services and any costs of collection. Increases the penalties for owners of vessels who permit such a vessel to navigate in the waters of the Great Lakes without a U.S. or Canadian registered pilot. Requires the Secretary, with respect to vessels operating in waters of the Great Lakes, to: (1) review the training and watchstanding standards for individuals employed on such vessels; (2) transmit to the Congress provisions of international conventions and U.S. laws that apply; and (3) make appropriate recommendations on necessary changes to manning requirements to reduce the risk of vessel casualty that may result in oilspill damage to the Great Lakes environment. Title III: Great Lakes Navigation Safety - Authorizes the Secretary to prescribe the imposition of fees for examining foreign vessels for compliance with certain navigational safety standards. Sets forth civil penalties.
Bill· HRH.R. 2940 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 20 July 1989
Merchant Mariner Memorial Act of 1989 - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to convey to a group of two or three nonprofit organizations, without consideration, all right, title, and interest of the United States in a vessel which is in the National Defense Reserve Fleet on the date of enactment of this Act, is of a specified minimum displacement tonnage, has no usefulness to the Government, and is scheduled to be scrapped. Requires each organization in the group to: (1) agree with the other organizations in that group to sell the vessel for scrap and divide the proceeds equally; (2) use its share to establish a merchant mariners' memorial; (3) have raised a minimum amount from non-Federal sources before enactment of this Act; and (4) agree to any other conditions the Secretary considers appropriate. Allows organizations to apply individually or as members of a group. Authorizes the Secretary to designate groups from organizations which apply individually. Prohibits organizations from belonging to more than one group. Terminates the Secretary's authority to convey vessels two years after enactment of this Act.
Bill· SS. 1350 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1989
Great Lakes Maritime Trade Act of 1989 - Title I: Eligibility of Certain Reflagged Vessels in the Great Lakes to Carry Preference Cargoes - Exempts an American Great Lakes vessel (AGLV) from provisions of the Merchant Marine Act, 1936 which prohibit a vessel which is built or rebuilt outside the United States or documented under any foreign registry from being, for purposes of cargo preference provisions, a privately owned U.S.-flag vessel. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to designate a vessel to be an AGLV if it meets certain requirements regarding U.S. documentation and if the owner enters into a construction and purchase agreement specifying that: (1) all repair, maintenance, reconditioning, and other construction (except emergency repairs) shall be performed in the United States; and (2) if the designation is revoked or terminated under provisions of this Act, the United States shall have an exclusive right to purchase the vessel under specified price terms. Declares that, notwithstanding any law, if the United States does not purchase the vessel, the owner shall not be prohibited from transferring the vessel to a foreign registry or selling it to a non-U.S. citizen. Prohibits an AGLV, except during the Great Lakes shipping off-season, from engaging in trade: (1) from a non-Great Lakes U.S. port; (2) between U.S. ports; or (3) between Great Lakes U.S. ports and Great Lakes Canadian ports. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to revoke the designation of a vessel as an AGLV on determining that the vessel does not meet a requirement for the designation, it has been operated in violation of this title, or the owner has violated a construction and purchase agreement under this title. Terminates an AGLV designation three years after the date of the designation or on an earlier date as may be requested by the vessel owner. Title II: Great Lakes Maritime Passage Enhancements - Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1936 to extend indefinitely, with regard to certain cargo preference provisions, the requirement that the Secretary of Transportation take steps to preserve the percentage share, or metric tonnage of bagged, processed, or fortified commodities experienced in calendar year 1984, of waterborne cargoes exported from Great Lakes ports pursuant to specified provisions of the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954. Directs the Secretary of the Army, notwithstanding specified requirements of the Water Resources Development Act of 1986, to initiate and complete the design, planning, and engineering of the Sault Sainte Marie lock project. Extends the authorization of such project to the end of FY 1993. Directs the Secretary of State to: (1) initiate discussions with Canada to eliminate all tolls on the Great Lakes and the Saint Lawrence Seaway; and (2) report to the Congress, by January 1, 1990, regarding those efforts, any results, and recommendations for further action. Declares that it is the sense of the Congress that: (1) funding for icebreaking capability in the Great Lakes should be maintained at a level sufficient to ensure passage under any conditions which may reasonably be expected to occur during the Great Lakes shipping season; and (2) it is essential to maintain in the Great Lakes an icebreaking vessel with horsepower and beam equivalent to those of the Coast Guard cutter Mackinaw.
Bill· HRH.R. 2932 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1989
Farmer to Consumer Farm Produce Enhancement Act - Amends Federal highway law pertaining to outdoor advertising to permit the seasonal or temporary advertising on Interstate and Federal-aid primary highways of locations at which consumers may harvest and purchase agricultural commodities from farmers producing them. Limits the size of advertising displays to 150 square feet.
Bill· HRH.R. 2934 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 July 1989
Provides for a maximum speed limit of 65 miles per hour on all highways located outside of urbanized areas.
Bill· SS. 1333 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1989
Amends the International Air Transportation Competition Act of 1979 to repeal the provisions relating to the regulation of air carrier flights from Love Field, Texas, to destinations outside the State of Texas.
Bill· HRH.R. 2911 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 17 July 1989
Amends the International Air Transportation Competition Act of 1979 to repeal a provision relating to the regulation of air carrier flights from Love Field, Texas, to destinations outside the State of Texas.
Bill· HRH.R. 2887 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1989
Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1936 to require the Postal Service to contract with U.S. registered vessels for international sea transportation of mail. Requires rate charges for such transportation to comply with the Shipping Act of 1984. Authorizes competitive bidding for such contracts and limits such contracts to a one-year duration. Prohibits the Postal Service from contracting with vessels based on cargo container size, unless necessary.
Bill· HRH.R. 2891 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 13 July 1989
Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to prohibit any person from acquiring a controlling interest in an air carrier unless the Secretary of Transportation has determined that the acquisition will not adversely and materially affect such air carrier's ability to conduct air transportation in a manner consistent with the highest degree of safety.
Bill· HRH.R. 2875 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 1989
Amends the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act to direct the Secretary of Transportation to promulgate regulations: (1) for the safe transportation of hazardous materials in the vicinity of bodies of water serving as drinking water sources; and (2) prohibiting transportation in commerce of hazardous materials over any public highway designated by a Federal or State official as hazardous due to its design or accident rate. Sets forth civil penalties for violations of this Act. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1990. Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress the results of a study regarding methods of containing hazardous materials spills occurring on bridges and methods of responding to such spills which are likely to contaminate water supplies.
Bill· HRH.R. 2872 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 July 1989
Narragansett Bay Protection Act of 1989 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations requiring that all tank vessels carrying oil or hazardous material and entering or departing from Narragansett Bay or Block Island Sound, Rhode Island, which are not required by any State to be under the direction and control of a licensed pilot, be under the direction and control of a federally licensed pilot who is not a member of the crew. Authorizes the Secretary to charge a fee to cover costs of boarding and examining foreign-flag tank vessels to assure compliance with specified navigational, safety, and pollution prevention regulations. Increases civil penalties for failure to have such a federally licensed pilot on board where required by Federal law.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 162 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 June 1989
Declares it is U.S. policy to provide a national air transportation system which: (1) enhances the general welfare and security of the United States; and (2) is free of regulations which unreasonably burden or restrict the right of citizens to travel by air. Requires the President to submit to the Congress a plan for a new comprehensive national aviation policy.
Bill· HRH.R. 2753 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 June 1989
Amends the Urban Mass Transportation Act of 1964 to provide that a financial assistance recipient under such Act who used a mass transit vehicle as a school bus in calendar year 1987 may receive financial assistance whether or not such recipient uses any part of it for acquisition, construction, or improvement of a mass transit vehicle for school bus use.
Bill· SS. 1277 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 23 June 1989
Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to prohibit any person from acquiring a controlling interest in an air carrier unless the Secretary of Transportation has determined that the acquisition will not adversely and materially affect such air carrier's ability to conduct air transportation in a manner consistent with the highest degree of safety.
Bill· SS. 1224 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1989
Motor Vehicle Fuel Efficiency Act of 1989 - Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to establish average fuel economy standards for passenger automobiles (for model years 1995 through 2000) and automobiles other than passenger automobiles (light trucks) (for model years 2001 and thereafter). Allows any person to petition the Secretary to modify an average fuel economy standard for model year 2001 and thereafter. Specifies procedures for response to such petition. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to report annually to specified congressional committees on a study on the accuracy of fuel economy testing of passenger automobiles. Directs the Secretary of Energy to distribute at least 100 explanatory booklets each year to every dealer and additional numbers if requested. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to provide for a review of the current state of research and development in light truck fuel economy and passenger automobile fuel economy and an assessment of the remaining potential for improving fuel efficiency and reducing energy consumption of passenger automobiles and light trucks. Requires a report to the Congress on such review and an updated report every five years. Doubles the civil penalty for repeated violations of the fuel economy standard.
Bill· HRH.R. 2733 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 June 1989
Amends the Surface Transportation and Uniform Relocation Assistance Act of 1987 to mandate that at least ten percent and at least three and one-half percent of appropriated funds for Federal procurement of goods and services from disadvantaged business enterprises be expended with small businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals and with small businesses owned and controlled by women, respectively.
Bill· HRH.R. 2688 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1989
Amends the National Driver Register Act of 1982 to authorize applicants for new and renewed merchant seamen licenses and certificates of registry to serve on or operate a commercial vessel to request the chief State driver licensing official to transmit to the Commandant of the Coast Guard information regarding such applicants' motor vehicle driving records. Prescribes the use of such information by the Commandant. Precludes access to information that was entered more than three years before the date of request unless it relates to revocations or suspensions which are still in effect on the date of request. Directs the Commandant to prescribe regulations to require each applicant to make available to the Commandant information regarding the motor vehicle driving record of the applicant.
Bill· HRH.R. 2685 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1989
Amends Federal law to require that the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating: (1) prior to issuing a merchant mariner's document or an endorsement to such a document, find that the applicant is qualified as to character and habits of life; and (2) determine the term of validity of a merchant mariner's document and of a certificate of registry. Allows documents and certificates to be renewed under regulations prescribed by the Secretary. Adds habits of life to the qualifying criteria for issuance of merchant seamen certificates of registry as pursers, medical doctors, and professional nurses. Amends provisions relating to licenses, certificates of registry, and merchant mariners' documents to allow suspension or revocation if the holder has been convicted within five years of: (1) driving under the influence of, or impaired by, alcohol or a controlled substance; or (2) a traffic violation arising in connection with a fatal traffic accident, reckless driving, or racing on the highways. Allows suspension or revocation, in addition, if the holder: (1) has had a license to drive denied, canceled, revoked, or suspended in any U.S. jurisdiction for cause; and (2) that cause would reflect adversely on the individual's fitness to serve. Amends the Independent Safety Board Act of 1974 to remove from the list of duties of the Board that of reviewing on appeal the decisions of the Commandant of the Coast Guard related to revoking, suspending, or denying a license, certificate, document, or register in proceedings under specified provisions of Federal law. Amends provisions of Federal law relating to manning of vessels to require the chief mate to temporarily relieve the individual in command if the chief mate and the next senior crewmember on board a vessel determine that reasonable cause exists to believe that the individual in command is intoxicated by dangerous drugs or alcohol and is therefore incapable of commanding the vessel. Requires the chief mate to log the details and report to the Secretary.
Bill· HRH.R. 2684 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 June 1989
Government Fleet Savings Act - Directs the President to review the inventory of vessels acquired by the U.S. Government as a result of a default under Federal ship mortgage insurance provisions of the Merchant Marine Act, 1936 to determine the suitability of such vessels for Government use before acquiring a vessel for such use.
Bill· HRH.R. 2681 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 19 June 1989
Food Contamination Prevention Act - Amends the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act to direct the Secretary of Transportation to promulgate regulations to prohibit the transportation in commerce of hazardous materials or solid waste in any motor vehicle which is also used to transport any food, food additive, drug, cosmetic, or device, or any package containing such items.
Bill· SS. 1170 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1989
Flight Attendant Duty Time Act - Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to direct the Secretary of Transportation to initiate a rulemaking proceeding to establish limitations on duty time for flight attendants. Requires the Secretary to issue final regulations by a specified deadline. Prohibits any air carrier from operating an aircraft using a flight attendant who has been on duty in excess of specified hours or who has had less than a specified number of hours of rest if such regulations have not been promulgated by a certain time. Permits modification of the specified hours of duty if the Secretary determines such modification is in the public interest and submits a copy of the modifying regulations to certain congressional committees.
Bill· HRH.R. 2609 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1989
Amends Federal law to require certain tank vessels to be equipped with a double hull.
Bill· HRH.R. 2606 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 June 1989
Adds a new title to the Maritime Act of 1981, designating the new title as the Port Improvement Act of 1989. Directs the Secretary of Transportation, through the Federal Maritime Administration, and the Secretary of Commerce (the Secretaries) to jointly establish a program to make loans to port agencies for financing and refinancing improvements to facilities at deep-draft ports. Limits the aggregate amount of loans to: (1) a specified dollar amount in a five-fiscal-year period; and (2) 50 percent of the cost of the improvements. Requires the remaining percentage to come from non-Federal sources. Prohibits loans for any activity which is eligible for assistance as a water resource project carried out by the Secretary of the Army through the Chief of Engineers. Sets forth procedures and criteria for selection of loan recipients. Requires a set-aside of 20 percent of amounts appropriated from the Port Improvement Revolving Loan Fund each year for improvements at small deep-draft ports. Limits loans to a maximum of 20 years. Requires repayment at an interest rate which: (1) will ensure that the amount in the Fund will increase at approximately the rate of inflation; and (2) is less than market rates for such loans. Establishes in the Treasury the Port Improvement Revolving Loan Fund, to consist of amounts: (1) transferred to the Fund equal to specified percentages of customs duties collected during FY 1989 through 1991; (2) deposited in the Fund as repayment of loans made under this Act; and (3) credited to the Fund from interest on and proceeds from the sale or redemption of investment of amounts in the Fund. Directs the Secretaries to establish a permanent advisory board to advise the Secretaries on matters related to this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 2584 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 8 June 1989
Hazardous Materials Transportation Act Amendments of 1989 - Amends the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act (the Act) to require the Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations requiring any generator of a shipment of hazardous materials to transmit a manifest of its contents and the license plate or other identifying number of the carrier to the central reporting system and data center. Requires the Secretary to enter into a contract under which a private entity shall establish a central reporting system and data center to provide law enforcement and firefighting personnel with information and advice on dealing with emergencies connected with the transportation of hazardous materials (currently the Secretary is required to establish and maintain such a system and data center). Prohibits the appropriation of Federal funds for such system and data center. Permits the private entity to impose a fee for manifesting such a shipment if the generator is a Federal agency. Directs the Secretary to study the flow of hazardous materials in the United States. Requires the Secretary, in collaboration with the private entity, to report the results of such study to the Congress. Increases both civil and criminal penalties for violations under the Act. Sets forth specified terms and conditions with respect to the private entity's establishment and maintenance of the reporting system and data center.
Law· SJRESS.J.Res. 153 (101st)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1989
Designates the week beginning on the second Sunday in May 1990 as National Tourism Week.
Bill· HRH.R. 2581 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 June 1989
Aviation Research Grant Act of 1989 - Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to authorize the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to make grants to colleges, universities, and nonprofit research organizations to: (1) conduct aviation research; and (2) establish research centers for the long-term growth of civil aviation. Directs the Administrator to report annually to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation regarding the research grant program. Amends the Airport and Airway Improvement Act of 1982 to make a specified percentage of funds under the Airport and Airway Trust Fund available for such grants.
Bill· HRH.R. 2549 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1989
Comprehensive Hazardous Materials Transportation Safety Act of 1989 - Amends the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act (the Act) to require the Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations for the safe transportation of hazardous materials in intrastate, interstate, and foreign commerce. Preempts State law with respect to: (1) classification and packaging of hazardous materials; (2) preparation of shipping documents; (3) notification of the unintentional release of such materials in transportation; (4) highway routing; and (5) the design and testing of packaging used in the transportation of such materials. Directs the Secretary to issue standards, including specified requirements, for the designation of highway routes for the transportation of hazardous materials by motor carriers. Requires each person who owns or operates public warehouses or terminals that store hazardous materials under active shipping papers to submit to the Secretary a registration statement containing specified information. Sets forth certain exemptions from this requirement. Requires the Secretary to collect an annual fee from each person required to submit a registration statement. Sets forth a civil penalty for persons who fail to pay such fee. Limits to no more than five percent of fee collections any proceeds available for administrative costs. Directs the Secretary to issue standards for the training to be given by all persons (or employers) causing the transport, or transporting, hazardous materials. Requires such persons to provide training meeting such standards. Prohibits any motor carrier or motor private carrier from transporting class A or B explosives, liquified petroleum or liquified natural gas, or hazardous material designated extremely toxic by inhalation, or any highway route controlled quantity of radioactive materials, unless such carrier possesses a valid safety permit authorizing it to transport such materials. Provides for issuance, suspension, and revocation of such permits. Repeals the publication requirement for renewal of exemptions from regulations governing the transportation of hazardous materials. Revises the definition of "radioactive materials" to exclude material which the Secretary determines is of such low order of radioactivity that when transported it does not pose a significant hazard to health or safety. Directs the Secretary to conduct a continuing review of all aspects of the transportation of hazardous materials and take appropriate steps to assure the safe transportation of such materials. (Currently, the Secretary is required only to recommend such steps.) Sets forth a civil penalty of not less than $250 in the case of an employee, or $1,000 in the case of all other persons, for violations committed under this Act. Preempts State requirements with requirements established under such Act if: (1) compliance with both State requirement and any requirement of the Act is not possible; (2) the State requirement as enforced creates an obstacle to the execution of a requirement under this Act; or (3) such State requirement regulates a subject preempted under such Act. Provides for waiver of preemption by the Secretary. Allows a person who is adversely affected by a decision to preempt or waive preemption to petition for judicial review with the appropriate U.S. district court. Directs the Secretary to issue a final rule prohibiting any motor carrier with an unsatisfactory safety rating from operating certain commercial motor vehicles, including vehicles transporting hazardous materials, until such carrier receives a conditional or satisfactory rating. Requires the Secretary to make grants to State, local, and regional governmental entities to improve planning for responding to emergencies involving transportation of hazardous materials and for training emergency personnel. Requires a grant applicant to submit to the Secretary a plan describing and justifying the activities to be carried out. Specifies the uses for such grants. Sets forth training requirements. Requires the Secretary to submit to the Congress a report that discusses, analyses, and provides recommendations with respect to hazardous materials transportation safety. Requires the Secretary, in cooperation with the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, to assist State, local, and regional governments to improve emergency responses to accidents involving the transportation of hazardous materials. Directs the Secretary to issue regulations establishing similar emergency and accident response procedures for rail carriers. Directs the Federal Railroad Administration to hire one professional engineer to specialize in the development of improved tank car specifications, inspections, and regulations. Directs the Secretary to establish procedures for providing copies of enforcement actions against regulation violators to State or local government officials. Requires the Secretary to employ additional safety inspectors for the Federal Railroad Administration, the Federal Highway Administration, and the Research and Special Programs Administration to assist in inspections focusing on the transportation of hazardous materials.
Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 145 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 31 May 1989
Designates June 12 through June 19, 1989, as Old Cars Week.
Bill· HRH.R. 2518 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 31 May 1989
Amends Federal law to require covered tankers to be equipped with a double hull.
Bill· HRH.R. 2513 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 31 May 1989
Declares that control of a class I rail carrier may be acquired by a person that is not a carrier and does not control any other carrier with the approval of the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC). Requires the ICC, when making such approval, to consider the: (1) effect of the proposed transaction on the adequacy of transportation to the public; (2) total fixed charges that result from the proposed transaction; and (3) interest of carrier employees affected by the proposed transaction. Requires the ICC to approve a proposed transaction when it finds the transaction is consistent with the public interest.
Bill· HRH.R. 2524 (101st)referred
United States · United States Congress · 31 May 1989
Directs the Secretary of Transportation not to approve any Federal aid highway project: (1) in any State which, within a specified two-year period, does not have in effect a program for random testing of driver's license and renewal applicants for the illegal use of controlled substances; and (2) for one year after such State has issued or renewed a driver's license to any individual who tests positive under its testing program. Requires each State to: (1) annually certify to the Secretary that it has in effect such a program and is not issuing or renewing such driver's licenses; and (2) submit such information as the Secretary shall require to verify such certification. Directs the Secretary not to approve any project in any State which has failed to make such certification.
Bill· HRH.R. 2507 (101st)open
United States · United States Congress · 25 May 1989
Aviation Security and Terrorism Commission Act of 1989 - Establishes the Commission on Aviation Security and Terrorism to investigate events leading up to and surrounding the destruction of Pan American World Airways flight 103 on December 21, 1988, and the destruction of Korean Air Lines flight 007 on August 31, 1983. Terminates the Commission 30 days after it makes required reports.