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Bill· HRH.R. 6818 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1980
Title I: Northeast Corridor - Northeast Corridor Redirection Act of 1980 - Amends the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 (the Act) to extend the time period within which: (1) regularly scheduled and dependable intercity rail passenger service is to be established between Boston and New York, and New York and Washington, D.C.; and (2) the Secretary of Transportation must submit to Congress an updated, comprehensive report on the financial and operating results of such service. Adds as a new goal of the Act, the elimination of congestion in rail traffic at the Baltimore and Potomac Tunnel in Baltimore, Maryland. Increases the authorization of appropriations for the Boston-Washington, D.C. passenger service required by the Act. Authorizes the Secretary to acquire necessary real estate interests to effectuate the goals of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements with cost-sharing State, local, or regional transportation authorities, providing for the Secretary to carry out such improvements and requiring reimbursement by the cost-sharing parties. Authorizes the Secretary to transfer to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation excess real or personal property from the Northeast Corridor improvement project. Requires that such property be subject to the mortgage entered into pursuant to the Act. Declares that it shall be a goal of the Corporation to manage its operating costs, pricing policies, and other factors so that annual revenues derived from the operation of intercity rail passenger service over the Northeast Corridor route between Washington, D. C., and Boston, Massachusetts, shall equal or exceed the annual operating costs of providing such service. Establishes a goal of self-sufficiency for such intercity passenger service within five years of the completion of such project. Requires the Corporation to submit to the President for transmission to the Congress a report on the success of the Corporation in attaining such goal. Title II: National Rail Passenger Corridor Projects - National Rail Passenger Corridors Act of 1980 - Amends the Rail Passenger Service Act to declare that it is the purpose of this title to provide for the development of high-speed intercity rail passenger service in corridors throughout the United States. Directs the Secretary, under such Act, to establish improvement projects in 13 specified rail passenger corridors. Sets forth a deadline for meeting specified service goals for such projects. Directs the Corporation to develop design and engineering plans for each corridor improvement project. Directs the Corporation to consult with the States and rail carriers to be affected by the provision of such rail passenger service. Authorizes the Corporation to undertake specified improvements in tracks and facilities. Directs the Corporation to acquire specified new equipment. Requires the Corporation to submit: (1) by January 1, 1981, a report to Congress concerning preliminary cost estimates of such improvement; and (2) by July 1, 1981, a report to Congress setting forth final estimates in regard to such costs in each corridor. Directs the Corporation to enter into contracts and agreements with other rail carriers for the improvement of such tracks and facilities. Authorizes the Corporation to apply to the Secretary for an order directing such rail carrier to make the requested improvements. Permits the Secretary to order such improvements under certain conditions and including specified terms. Directs the Secretary to use certain criteria in establishing compensation for such required improvements. Directs the Corporation, under certain conditions, to undertake improvements in service between corridors in order to maximize ridership. Directs the Corporation to report to the Secretary any deterioration suffered by a track improved under this title. Directs the Secretary to investigate such track and, if necessary, order the rail carrier which owns such track to make the appropriate repairs by a specified date. Sets forth a civil penalty and an affirmative defense for a failure to comply with such order of the Secretary. Directs the Comptroller General to conduct annual audits, using the records of the Corporation, and to report on each audit to Congress. Directs the Corporation to identify restrictions imposed by a State or local government on the speed of Amtrak trains and to consult with such governments for purposes of evaluating alternatives to such restrictions. Directs the Corporation to include in its annual report to Congress certain information with respect to each corridor improvement project. Authorizes appropriations for the purposes of this title. Directs the Secretary, under specified conditions, to order a rail carrier to permit Amtrak trains over its lines for compensation agreed upon by the Corporation and such carrier or ordered by the Interstate Commerce Commission.
Bill· HRH.R. 6814 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 March 1980
Amends the Railway Labor Act to provide that State law shall govern the settlement of a labor dispute between employees and a State-owned rail passenger carrier after the procedures and requirements set forth in such Act (other than the creation of an emergency board) have been exhausted by the parties to the dispute.
Bill· HRH.R. 6771 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1980
Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 by: (1) directing the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to perform the functions, powers, and duties of the Secretary of Transportation pertaining to aviation safety; (2) prohibiting the Administrator from performing any functions, powers, or duties other than those pertaining to aviation safety; and (3) directing the Secretary to perform any functions, powers, and duties performed by the Administrator before the effective date of this Act which do not pertain to aviation safety. Directs the Secretary to identify and report to Congress and the office within the Department of Transportation on such functions, powers, and duties. Prohibits the Secretary or any employee of the Department from delegating any functions, powers, or duties which do not pertain to aviation safety to the Administration or its employees. Transfers to the Secretary the personnel, assets, liabilities, and contracts made in connection with the functions, powers, or duties formerly performed by the Administrator and herein transferred to the Secretary. Continues in effect all orders, rules, regulations, contracts, and licenses previously made or issued by the Administration not pertaining to aviation safety until modified or terminated by the Secretary, a court, or operation of law. Transfers to the Department of Transportation proceedings pending at the time this Act takes effect before the Federal Aviation Administration which do not pertain to aviation safety. Prohibits suits by or against the Administration or its officers commenced prior to the effective date of this Act from abating or from being affected by the provisions of this Act. Substitutes the Secretary for the Administrator in such suits not pertaining to aviation safety.
Bill· HRH.R. 6721 (96th)reported
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1980
Airport and Airway Improvement Act of 1980 - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to review and revise the existing national airport system plan to provide for the development of public-use airports in the United States. Directs that such plan shall include the type and estimated cost of eligible airport development considered by the Secretary to be necessary to provide a safe and efficient system of public-use airports to anticipate and meet the needs of civil aeronautics, to meet requirements in support of the national defense, and to meet the needs of the postal service. Directs the Department of Defense to make military airports and airport facilities available for civil use to the extent feasible. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to make grants from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund for airport development and planning in the form of project grants. Sets forth the aggregate funding level for such grants for fiscal years 1981 through 1985. Directs that no obligation shall be incurred by the Secretary for airport development at a privately owned public-use airport unless the Secretary receives assurances that such airport will continue to function as a public- use airport during the economic life (no less than ten years) of any facility at such airport that was developed with Federal financial assistance under this Act. Authorizes appropriations out of such fund for fiscal years 1981 through 1985 for: (1) the establishment of air navigation facilities; (2) airport research engineering and development, and demonstration projects; (3) training State and local government employees to carry out the purposes of this Act; (4) costs of services provided under international agreements relating to the joint financing of air navigation services; and (5) costs incurred in operating and maintaining air navigation facilities in a safe and efficient condition. Directs that the costs of site preparation work associated with the establishment or improvement of air navigation facilities by the Secretary pursuant to the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 shall be charged to appropriated funds available to the Secretary for that purpose. Directs that the Secretary shall provide in a grant or other agreement with an airport owner or sponsor, for the performance of such site preparation work in connection with airport development, subject to payment or reimbursement for such work by the Secretary from such appropriated funds. Prohibits appropriations from the Trust Fund to carry out programs or activities under such Act. Directs that amounts authorized shall remain available in the Trust Fund until appropriated for the purposes described. Directs that amounts transferred to the Trust Fund by the Airport and Airway Revenue Act of 1970 may not be appropriated for administrative expenses of the Department of Transportation. Grants the Secretary the authority to obligate to an airport by grant agreement the unobligated balance of amounts that were apportioned in prior fiscal years and that remain available for approved airport development projects, in addition to amounts authorized for that fiscal year by this Act. Sets forth the method for apportioning the funds made available under this Act. Sets forth conditions which determine eligibility for funding under this Act. Sets forth procedures for the submission of project grant airport development applications and requirements which must be satisfied to approve such applications. Requires a sponsor of an airport project to hold public hearings where the project-grant application involves the location of an airport, an airport runway, or a major runway extension. Directs that such a grant shall not be made unless the Governor of the State in which the project is to be located certifies in writing to the Secretary that there is a reasonable assurance that the project will be located, designed, constructed, and operated so as to comply with applicable air and water quality implementation plans. Authorizes the Secretary to approve standards (other than standards for safety of approaches) established by a State for airport development at public-use airports which are not primary airports. Authorizes the Secretary, in connection with any project the sponsor will comply with this Act, to require the project sponsor to certify that all of the statutory and administrative requirements imposed by this Act. Directs that the United States' share of allowable project costs for a project approved under this Act shall not exceed 90 percent of its cost. Establishes lower percentages for such projects under specified circumstances. Imposes upon the Secretary, as a condition precedent to approval of an airport development project contained in a project grant application submitted under this Act, the duty to receive written assurances that: (1) such airport will be available for public use on fair, reasonable, equitable and nondiscriminatory terms; (2) generally, no person providing aeronautical services to the public will have an exclusive right to use such airport; (3) such airport and related facilities will be suitably operated and maintained, with due regard to climatic and flood conditions; (4) the aerial approaches to such airport will be adequately cleared, protected, and hazard-free; (5) land in the immediate vicinity of such airport will be used for purposes compatible with airport operations; (6) such airport's facilities will be available for use by United States Government aircraft; (7) the airport operator or owner will furnish certain land, water, or estate therein to the Federal Government for use in connection with air traffic control, navigation, weather reporting, or communications activities related to air traffic control; (8) all project records will be kept in accordance with a standard accounting system; (9) the airport operator or owner will maintain a fee and rental structure for the facilities and services being provided to airport users which will make the airport as self-sustaining as possible; (10) such operator or owner will submit reports as requested by the Secretary; (11) the airport and all airport records will be available for the Secretary's inspection; and, (12) such operator or owner who receives a grant for the purchase of land for noise compatibility purposes which is conditioned on the disposal of the acquired land at the earliest practicable time will use its best efforts to so dispose of such land. Authorizes the Secretary to relieve a project sponsor from contractual obligations entered into under this Act, the Airport and Airway Development Act of 1970, or the Federal Airport Act, to provide free space in airport buildings to the Federal Government. Directs the Secretary first to determine that the cost of an airport development or planning project is allowable before the United States pays from amounts appropriated to carry out the provisions of this Act. Sets forth conditions to determine whether costs are allowable. Authorizes the Secretary to approve, as allowable costs of an airport development project, terminal development costs in nonrevenue producing public-use areas which are directly related to the movement of passengers and baggage. Directs that construction work on projects funded under this Act shall be subject to inspection and approval by the Secretary and shall be in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Secretary. Directs that contracts in excess of $2,000 for such construction projects shall include provisions establishing minimum rates of wages to be predetermined by the Secretary of Labor in accordance with the Davis-Bacon Act. Requires that construction contracts for airport development projects grant employment preferences to Vietnam and disabled veterans. Directs the Secretary of Transportation, in the event that a public airport project will require the use of Federal lands, to request the head of the Federal agency or department controlling such lands to transfer the necessary property interests to the public agency sponsoring the project or which owns or controls the airport involved. Requires the head of such an agency or department to notify the Secretary within four months of its decision with respect to such a request. Exempts from such requests lands under the administration of the National Park Service, units of the National Wildlife Refuge System or similar areas under the jurisdiction of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, or within any national forest or Indian reservation. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to annually report to the Congress describing operations under this Act during the preceding fiscal year. Sets forth criminal penalties for fraudulent acts committed with respect to projects under this Act. Sets forth recordkeeping and auditing requirements with respect to projects under this Act. Directs the Secretary to take affirmative action to assure that no person shall, on the grounds of race, creed, color, national origin, or sex, be excluded from participating in any activity conducted with funds received from any grant made under this Act. Repeals the provisions of the Airport and Airway Development Act of 1970. Amends the Aviation Safety and Noise Abatement Act of 1979 by authorizing the Secretary to incur obligations to make grants for airport noise compatibility planning. Amends such Act by stating that all of the provisions of this Act applicable to grants made herein shall be applicable to grants made under such Act. Amends the Airport and Airway Development Act Amendments of 1976 by authorizing $19,750,000 to be appropriated out of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund before the date which is 180 days after the date of enactment of the International Air Transportation Competition Act of 1979.
Bill· HRH.R. 6738 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1980
Amends the Great Lakes Pilotage Act of 1960 to limit the liability for negligent torts of United States registered pilots to $1,000.
Bill· HRH.R. 6719 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1980
Reduces the Federal-aid highway apportionment for any State which establishes a maximum gross weight of less than 80,000 pounds or a maximum overall length of less than 60 feet for vehicles using the Interstate Highway System within such State.
Bill· HRH.R. 6697 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1980
Amends the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 to authorize appropriations to the United States Railway Association for the purpose of carrying out its administrative expenses under such Act for fiscal year 1981.
Bill· HRH.R. 6698 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1980
Railroad Employee Protection Modification Act of 1980 - Declares it to be the purpose of this Act to provide, under the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973, for labor protection for certain railroad employees, and to assist the Consolidated Rail Corporation (ConRail) in managing such employees in its work force. Amends such act to grant, to protected employees, a monthly displacement allowance for any calendar month within the period identified in this Act in which the employee is deprived of employment or is adversely affected as regards his/her compensation. Sets forth provisions for payment of such allowance. Specifies the duration of the monthly displacement allowance. Sets forth provisions for training and transfer of employees. Permits ConRail to offer a vacant position to not more than four protected non-contract employees. Directs ConRail to give such position to the protected employee accepting transfer whom ConRail considers to be best qualified for the particular position involved. Directs ConRail, the United States Railway Association, replacement operators, and acquiring railroads, as the case may be, to pay the allowances, expenses, and costs provided protected employees under this Act. Directs the Railroad Retirement Board to reimburse ConRail, the Association, replacement operators, and acquiring railroads for such allowances, expenses, and costs up to an aggregate sum of $485,000,000. Limits the aggregate amount of such reimbursements to $180,000,000. Authorizes annual appropriations. Directs ConRail, the Association, replacement operators, and acquiring railroads to pay benefits otherwise reimbursable upon the exhaustion of such authorization. Authorizes appropriations for administrative expenses incurred by the Railroad Retirement Board and the Association. Directs the Association to audit the payment of benefits under this Act. Orders the Association to report to the Congress and the President within 90 days after the end of each fiscal year. Sets forth technical amendments to the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973.
Law· HRH.R. 6671 (96th)open
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1980
Inland Navigational Rules Act of 1980 - Establishes navigational rules applicable to all vessels upon the inland waters of the United States, including vessels of the United States on the Canadian waters of the Great Lakes to the extent that there is no conflict with Canadian law. Specifies that this Act shall not interfere with the operation of any special rules made by the Secretary of the Navy with respect to specified station or signal lights. Directs the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to determine whether a vessel complies with this Act regarding the number, position, range, or arc of visibility of lights or shapes as well as the characteristics of sound- signaling appliances. Directs the Secretary of the Navy to determine such compliance for vessels of the Navy. Allows the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to accept a certificate of alternative compliance issued by a contracting party to the International Regulations. Makes any vessel or the owner, master, or crew thereof, responsible for failure to comply with this Act or for failure to take any precaution which may be required by the ordinary practice of seamen, or by the circumstances of the case. Sets forth comprehensive rules governing the steering, speed, and sailing of vessels. Prescribes comprehensive rules regarding lights and shapes of lights affixed to vessels. Sets forth comprehensive rules concerning sound and light signals required aboard vessels. Exempts certain vessels from specified provisions of this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish certain technical annexes to this Act. Makes liable for civil penalties in district court anyone who violates this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to assess civil penalties authorized by this Act. Empowers the Secretary of the Treasury to withhold or revoke the clearance of any vessel, the owner or operator of which is subject to the penalties of this Act. Directs the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to establish a Rules of the Road Advisory Council. Requires such Council to make recommendations relating to this Act to the Secretary. Amends the International Navigational Rules Act of 1977 to state that such Act does not apply to vessels which are in inland waters of the United States. Repeals specific sections of Federal law concerning inland navigation.
Bill· HRH.R. 6672 (96th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1980
Authorizes appropriations for the Coast Guard for fiscal year 1981. Sets forth the amount of funds allocated for: (1) operation and maintenance expenses; (2) acquisition, construction, rebuilding, and improvement of aids to navigation, shore facilities, vessels, and aircraft, including equipment related thereto; (3) alteration or removal of bridges over navigable waters of the United States constituting obstructions to navigation; and (4) research, development, tests, and evaluation. Permits the Coast Guard to have an end-of-year strength for active duty personnel of 39,487, provided that such ceiling does not include members of the Ready Reserve called to active duty. Specifies the average military training student loads for the Coast Guard as follows: (1) recruit and special training, 4,175 students; (2) flight training, 117 students; (3) professional training in military and civilian institutions, 595 students; and (4) officer acquisitions, 925 students. Authorizes the lease of housing facilities in foreign countries on a multiyear basis for a period not to exceed five years, and in accordance with local custom and practice, provides for advance payment for the lease. Authorizes the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating to increase the existing capital of the Coast Guard Supply Fund by the value of usable materials transferred thereto from Coast Guard inventories carried in other accounts. Disallows reductions in the rate of pay and allowances to which appointed temporary officers would have been entitled had they remained in their former grade and continued to receive the increases in pay and allowance authorized for that grade. Permits the payment of a monetary allowance in place of transportation to a member whose baggage and household effects are moved by a privately owned or rented vehicle. Allows the payment of the allowance in advance of the transportation of the baggage and household effects, and does not limit the allowance to reimbursement for actual expenses. Requires the owner or operator of a vessel documented or to be documented as a vessel of the United States to reimburse the Secretary for the travel and subsistence expenses incurred by the personnel assigned to perform the inspection or examination when the inspection or examination is conducted at a foreign port or place at the request of the owner or operator.
Bill· HRH.R. 6674 (96th)reported
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1980
Amends the National Visitor Center Facilities Act of 1968 to direct the Secretary of the Interior to sublet a portion of the Union Station Concourse to the Secretary of Transportation for operation as a rail passenger terminal. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to construct a parking structure for buses and 1400 cars. Allows the Secretary to vary the number of spaces for visitors' automobiles if it is determined to be necessary in order to carry out the purpose of this Act. Directs the Washington Terminal Company to cease construction of the new railroad passenger facility beneath the parking structure and to assign to the Secretary of Transportation all rights and obligations concerning such terminal. Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to use funds (to be deposited into a special account for the National Park Service) received from operating the National Visitor Center to pay the costs of such Center. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation: (1) to use funds received through operation of the sublet space to pay the costs of such space; and (2) to spend appropriated funds for rail passenger operations without regard to the matching funds requirement of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976. Requires every contract for the facility must be bid competitively on a fixed-price basis. Authorizes the Architect of the Capitol to enter into an agreement with the Secretary of the Interior to furnish steam from the Capitol Powerplant to Union Station. Authorizes the Secretary to construct connections to such Powerplant. Increases the authorization of appropriations for adequate visitor facilities. Prohibits the use of appropriated funds for the construction or alteration of any facility authorized by the National Visitor Center Facilities Act of 1968, until final plans for such construction or alteration have been submitted to Congress, and Congress does not disapprove such plans within a 30 day period after their submission.
Bill· SS. 2365 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1980
Amends the Flood Control Act of 1928 to authorize the Secretary of the Army, through the Chief of Engineers, to construct navigation improvements on the Mississippi River at Memphis, Tennessee. Sets forth the Federal share of the costs of such improvements. Declares that Tennessee is not required to contribute to the costs of such improvements.
Law· HRH.R. 6666 (96th)open
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1980
Makes technical amendments to the law governing the Coast Guard Reserve. Grants a member of the Reserve on inactive-duty training the same authority, rights, and privileges in the performance of that duty as a member of corresponding grade or rating of the Regular Coast Guard or of the Reserve on active duty. Retains a Reserve officer, if assigned to active duty of a limited or temporary nature from an inactive-duty status, within the promotion structure for Reserve officers of the inactive Reserve. Reduces from 20 to ten years the length of commissioned service required for eligibility for promotion to rear admiral in the Reserve. Requires that the last five years of such service shall have been served in the Coast Guard Reserve. Reduces from five to four years the period which a Reserve rear admiral may serve before removal from active status.
Bill· SS. 2353 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1980
Energy Transportation Improvement Act of 1980 - Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to apportion funds for the repair of toll free public roads which have incurred a substantial increase in use and deterioration as a result of the transportation of coal, other energy resources, or related equipment, to meet national energy requirements. Authorizes the Secretary to apportion funds for the elimination of hazards at rail-highway intersections where there is a substantial increase in rail or highway traffic as a result of the transportation of coal, other energy resources, or related equipment, to meet national energy requirements. Authorizes appropriations for such purposes for fiscal years 1981 through 1990 out of the Highway Trust Fund.
Bill· HRH.R. 6642 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 February 1980
Deauthorizes the navigation project for the Kalihi Channel, Hawaii. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to modify any regulations relating to the Kalihi Channel bridge consistent with such deauthorization.
Bill· SS. 2322 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 February 1980
Maritime Appropriation Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1981 - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1981 for use by the Department of Commerce for: (1) acquisition, construction, or reconstruction of vessels, the construction-differential subsidy, and the cost of national defense features incident to the construction, reconstruction, or reconditioning of ships; (2) payments of obligations incurred for the operating-differential subsidy; (3) research and development activities; (4) maritime education and training expenses; and (5) operating expenses including reserve fleet expenses. Authorizes additional appropriations for increases in salary, pay, retirement, or other employee benefits authorized by law, and for increased costs for public utilities, food service, and other expenses of the Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 372 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 February 1980
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Department of Transportation should conduct a study of the transportation problems of the elderly in rural areas.
Law· HRH.R. 6554 (96th)open
United States · United States Congress · 20 February 1980
Maritime Appropriations Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1981 and 1982 - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1981 and 1982 for use by the Department of Commerce for: (1) the acquisition, construction, or reconstruction of vessels, the construction-differential subsidy, and the cost of national defense features incident to the construction, reconstruction or reconditioning of ships; (2) the payment of obligations incurred for the operating-differential subsidy; (3) research and development activities including a specified amount for the sole purpose of conducting a sealift readiness exercise; (4) maritime education and training expenses; and (5) operating expenses including reserve fleet expenses. Authorizes additional appropriations for increases in salary, pay, retirement, or other employee benefits authorized by law, and for increased costs for public utilities, food service, and other expenses of the Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York.
Bill· HRH.R. 6552 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 20 February 1980
Designates a specified road between Ekalaka and Alzada, Montana as a route on the Federal aid secondary system. Directs the Federal Government to provide 100 percent of the construction costs for such highway.
Bill· SS. 2296 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 February 1980
Federal Public Transportation Act of 1980 - Amends the Urban Mass Transportation Act of 1964 to direct the Secretary of Transportation to submit to the appropriate committees of Congress prior to July 1, 1980 an interim allocation plan for the modernization or rehabilitation of rail mass transportation facilities and equipment. Directs the Secretary to submit a final allocation plan for such modernization and rehabilitation prior to January 1, 1982 to become final unless disapproved by the committees. Authorizes the Secretary to purchase equipment for use in public transportation service. Directs the Secretary to transfer the ownership of such equipment to States or local public bodies. Requires the public bodies receiving such equipment to provide at least 20 percent of the net project costs. Authorizes appropriations for the purposes of such Act through fiscal year 1985. Requires the Secretary to notify the appropriate committees of Congress 30 days prior to announcing an intention to obligate for a project. Sets forth the formula the Secretary shall use in apportioning funds available in a fiscal year for making grants for the purchase of buses and related equipment and facilities. Directs the Secretary to investigate unsafe conditions in any transit system financed under this Act. Directs the Secretary to require States or local public agencies to submit a plan for correcting such unsafe conditions. Permits the Secretary to withhold financial assistance under this Act until such plan is approved or implemented. Authorizes the Secretary to establish safety criteria and standards for such investigations. Requires any commuter rail passenger service which is operated by the National Railroad Passenger Corporation to continue through fiscal year 1985 to be operated and funded as it was on January 1, 1980. Authorizes appropriations for the payment of the operating and capital expenses of such service for fiscal years 1981 through 1985.
Bill· HRH.R. 6519 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 13 February 1980
Rock Island Railroad Transition Act - Directs the Interstate Commerce Commission to continue directed service over any line of the Rock Island Railroad over which directed service was provided on February 6, 1980 for a period of 60 days. Permits the Commission to extend such service for an additional 30-day period over any line that is the subject of a bona fide offer of purchase. Permits the Commission to extend service for yet an additional 30-day period over any line to which there is a binding contract for purchase that has not been approved by the Commission and the bankruptcy court. Directs the Commission to expedite proceedings involving the Rock Island Railroad. Prohibits the stay of any order or decision of the Commission regarding such railroad. Permits the appeal of such decision to the bankruptcy court or to any other court. Requires final decision from such appeal within 60 days. Grants employees of the Rock Island Railroad the first right of hire by any other rail carrier for all but specified vacancies. Entitles employees who must move to secure such employment to moving expenses, closing costs, and reimbursement for losses incurred in canceling a lease. Entitles specified employees of the Rock Island Railroad to supplementary unemployment insurance for a specified period. Directs the Railroad Retirement Board to prepare and maintain a list of separated employees to be made available to other rail carriers upon request. Entitles specified separated employees to receive from the Board expenses for training in qualified institutions for new career opportunities. States that any employee of the Rock Island Railroad who receives assistance under this Act shall not be eligible for the employee protection benefits otherwise available under the Bankruptcy Act or any applicable contract or agreement. Requires entitled employees to elect which benefits to receive by April 1, 1981. Requires the Board to establish procedures for applying for benefits, to publish a document for distribution by the Rock Island Railroad to all its employees detailing the rights of such employees pursuant to this Act, and to make semiannual reports to Congress describing its activities. Permits any State to purchase, lease, or operate a line of railroad, and to grant or loan funds to a rail career. Exempts the provisions of this Act from the provisions of the National Environmental Policy and the Energy Policy and Conservation Acts. Authorizes appropriations to effectuate the provisions of this Act. Amends the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 to direct the Secretary of Transportation to purchase specified redeemable preference shares or trustee certificates as necessary to facilitate the purchase of properties of the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad Company by other railroads to be used for common carrier rail service up to a specified amount. Directs the Secretary to guarantee the payment of specified obligations of a public entity applicant if the proceeds of such obligations will be used to acquire or to rehabilitate and improve any line of the Rock Island Railroad up to a specified amount. Increases the obligations ceiling for guaranteeing such obligations. Amends the Department of Transportation Act to authorize appropriations to provide financial assistance for approved State rail freight assistance projects involving the provision of rail freight service by a State or its instrumentality over any line of railroad owned by such State or instrumentality. Terminates the period during which the provisions of the Milwaukee Railroad Restructuring Act governing directed service on the Milwaukee Railroad shall supersede like provisions of the Interstate Commerce Act of 1978.
Bill· HRH.R. 6449 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 February 1980
Rock Island Transition Act - Directs the Interstate Commerce Commission to continue directed service over specified lines of the Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific Railroad until April 2, 1980 or until such lines are sold. Directs the Commission to expedite proceedings involving the Rock Island. Requires the Commission to reach a final decision on specified proceedings involving a sale, transfer, or lease of any line of the Rock Island to a solvent carrier within a specified period. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to purchase redeemable preference shares or trustee certificates convertible to redeemable preference shares as necessary to facilitate the purchase of properties of the Rock Island by other railroads. Establishes a ceiling for the total par value of such shares which the Secretary may purchase. Exempts activities under this Act from the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 6451 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 February 1980
Amends the highway safety program to require State programs to provide for a program to assure the installation and use of road speed governors on trucks using public roads in such State. Defines the term "road speed governor" to mean any device which is designed to limit the maximum speed of a truck to 55 miles per hour. Requires the installation of such a device on all trucks manufactured after model year 1981. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to require that each truck licensed by any State to be operated on a public road constructed or maintained with Federal funds have a road speed governor installed by January 1, 1982. Prohibits the disconnection or the rendering inoperative of such device. Directs the Secretary to establish exemptions from such requirements where compliance would not be practicable. Directs the Secretary to establish an inspection and compliance monitoring program to be coordinated with other Federal and State laws. Applies the information and certification requirements applicable to bumper standards for passenger automobiles to road speed governor standards for trucks. Establishes a civil penalty for the noninstallation of or tampering with a road speed governor. Directs the President to require that all trucks used by any Executive agency, directly or indirectly, be equipped with a speed governor after fiscal year 1981. Directs the Secretary to prescribe minimum performance standards for road speed governors.
Bill· HRH.R. 6446 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 February 1980
Directs the Secretary of Transportation, after consultation with appropriate State and local officials, to conduct a study of and report to Congress on the feasibility of adding high occupancy vehicle lanes to specified freeways in southern California.
Bill· HRH.R. 6438 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 February 1980
Northeast Corridor Completion Act of 1980 - Amends the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 to extend the time period within which (1) regularly scheduled and dependable intercity rail passenger service is to be established between Boston and New York and New York and Washington, D.C.; and (2) the National Railroad Passenger Corporation must submit to the President and to Congress an updated, comprehensive report on the financial and operating results of such service. Increases the amount authorized to be appropriated to effectuate the establishment of such service. Authorizes the Secretary to acquire any real property which the Secretary deems necessary to effectuate such service. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into contracts with cost-sharing parties to permit the Secretary to incur obligations to carry out improvements in anticipation of reimbursement from such parties. Permits the Secretary to transfer to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation excess real or personal property from the Northeast Corridor Improvement Project. Establishes a goal of self-sufficiency for such intercity passenger service within five years of the completion of such Project. Amends the Department of Transportation Act to authorize the Secretary to establish a working capital fund for financing the activities of the Transportation Systems Center, including research and analysis.
Bill· SS. 2262 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1980
Authorizes the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to document the vessel Onalay of the Maine Maritime Academy, as a vessel of the United States with the privileges of engaging in coastwise trade.
Bill· HRH.R. 6417 (96th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1980
Surface Transportation Act of 1980 - Title I - Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1980 - Authorizes appropriations for: (1) the Interstate System for fiscal year 1983; (2) highways for fiscal years 1981 and 1982; (3) the bridge program for fiscal year 1982; and (4) Interstate System resurfacing for fiscal years 1982 and 1983, subject to conditions placed upon the apportionment of funds. Makes the Federal share of the costs of completing a disapproved route of the Interstate System within an urbanized area available for bus-related and fixed rail facilities which are eligible for grants under the Urban Mass Transportation Act of 1964. Sets forth the costs the Secretary of Transportation must include in making the revised estimate of the cost of completing the then designated Interstate System. Prohibits the Secretary from approving any project whose costs are not eligible for inclusion in such revised estimate. Mandates that each State receive not less than one-half of one percent of the total apportionment for resurfacing, restoring, and rehabilitating the Interstate System in any fiscal year after 1982. Alters the percent of the ratio of lane miles used and vehicle miles traveled for apportionment purposes after fiscal year 1982. Eliminates the requirement that a State obligate all funds apportioned to it for any of specified Federal-aid systems before applying to the Secretary for the Federal share of such costs when additional funds have been apportioned to such State. Permits the Secretary to approve projects for reconstruction of lanes in use for more than five years on the Interstate System. Permits the Secretary to approve projects for resurfacing, restoring, and rehabilitating lanes in use for more than five years which are on toll roads and are subject to a Secretarial agreement after fiscal year 1982. Eliminates the five year use restriction for nontoll roads after fiscal year 1980. Increases the percent of the Federal share payable to the States for Interstate System resurfacing to at least 90 percent of the costs. Authorizes appropriations for the repair or reconstruction of highways and roads damaged as a result of disaster or catastrophe. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants for energy conservation projects on nontoll public roads to reduce traffic congestion and facilitate traffic flow on a Federal-aid system. Makes the Federal share of the cost of such projects 90 percent. Sets forth the formula for apportionment. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1981 through 1985 for such projects. Requires a State to maintain any project constructed under the Federal-aid Highway Act even after such project no longer constitutes a part of a Federal-aid system. Directs the Secretary to make apportionments for the replacement or rehabilitation of unsafe bridges in each State based upon the Federal share of the estimated cost as determined by the Secretary for fiscal years 1982 and 1983. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants: (1) to reconstruct, resurface, restore, and rehabilitate nontoll public roads which have incurred a substantial increase in use as a result of transportation activities to meet the national energy requirements; and (2) for transportation projects which will alleviate the environmental, social, and economic impact of increased train traffic to meet such requirements in communities located along specified rail corridors. Makes the Federal share of the costs of any such project 80 percent. Directs the Secretary to establish a formula for apportionment of such funds. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1981 through 1985. Requires each State in fiscal year 1982 to utilize at least 30 percent of the apportioned funds for projects for the construction of routes on the Interstate System which are not open to traffic. Permits exemptions as specified. Authorizes appropriations out of the Highway Trust Fund for safer off-system roads for fiscal years 1981 and 1982. Sets aside specified amounts of the sums authorized in fiscal years 1979, 1980, and 1981 for obligation by the Secretary for projects of unusually high cost or long duration. Requires that specified apportionments received by the States in fiscal year 1983 not be less than the amount received in the previous fiscal year. Establishes limits of the total of all obligations for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs for fiscal years 1980 through 1982. Title II - Federal Public Transportation Act of 1980 - Amends the Urban Mass Transportation Act of 1964 to authorize appropriations for discretionary grants or loans for fiscal years 1981 through 1985. Establishes a ceiling on the amount of such authorizations which may be made available for grants and loans for new rail transportation systems, rail extensions, and automated fixed guideways. Requires that not less than five percent of such funds be obligated for projects in areas having populations of less than 200,000 after fiscal year 1980. Authorizes appropriations: (1) for grants for research and training in urban transportation problems for fiscal years 1982 through 1985; (2) for formula grant programs for fiscal years 1982 through 1985; (3) for administrative and other expenses for fiscal years 1982 through 1985; (4) for urban mass transit grants for fiscal years 1981 through 1985; (5) for terminal development for fiscal years 1982 through 1985; and (6) for intercity bus service for fiscal years 1982 through 1985. Makes any person presenting a medicare card entitled to receive special rates established for the elderly or handicapped when paying mass transit fares. Requires the Secretary to notify the appropriate committees of Congress at least 30 days in advance of issuing a letter of intent to fund a project. Requires the Secretary to provide financial assistance through grants to the States and local bodies for the continuation through fiscal year 1983 of specified rail passenger service. Sets forth the Federal share of the operating costs of such rail passenger service. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1981 through 1983. Directs the Secretary to carry out a demonstration project using high-speed waterborne transportation equipment and facilities and operating in and in the vicinity of Portland, Oregon. Directs the Secretary to report the results of such projects to Congress by the end of fiscal year 1983.
Bill· HRH.R. 6418 (96th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1980
Motor Carrier Act of 1980 - Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to direct the Interstate Commerce Commission to issue a certificate authorizing a person to provide transportation as a motor common carrier of property if the Commission determines that such transportation is consistent with the present or future public convenience and necessity. Sets forth the factors the Commission should consider in making such a determination, including the evidence of public support and the quality of available service. Exempts from such procedures applications for authority to provide specified transportation services, including: (1) transportation to any point not served by a certified motor carrier of property; (2) service as a direct substitute for abandoned rail services; and (3) transportation for the United States of specified commodities. Limits the carriers who may protest an application to those who possess or have filed an application to possess authority to handle the traffic for which application is being made. Directs the Commission to develop expedited procedures to process applications of individual motor carriers of property seeking removal of specified operating restrictions, including gateway restrictions, circuitous route limitations, lack of backhaul authority, territorial limitations, and intermediate point service restrictions. Sets forth the factors to be considered in approving or disapproving such applications, including the applicant's showing of an impact on energy consumption and potential cost savings. Exempts from Commission jurisdiction: (1) the transportation for compensation of agricultural commodities; (2) the transportation of property by motor vehicle incidental to transportation by aircraft within a 35-mile radius of an airport or designated airport city; (3) specified transportation by a motor vehicle operated by an owner or a person accompanied by an owner; and (4) specified transportation for compensation by one corporation for itself or a subsidiary. Permits a person to hold both a certificate of a motor common carrier of property and a permit of a motor contract carrier of property to transport property over the same route only as specified. Prohibits the Commission from suspending or investigating any rate proposed by a motor carrier of property to determine whether or not such rate is unreasonable on the basis that it is too high or too low if such rate is within ten percent of the rate charged the previous year. Requires the Commission to maintain standards and procedures for establishing revenue levels for motor carriers of property sufficient to cover total operating expenses, plus a reasonable profit. Sets forth the factors the Commission shall consider when prescribing a rate, classification, rule of practice for transportation or service by common carriers other than rail carriers. Permits a freight forwarder to enter into contracts with a rail carrier or a water common carrier providing specified transportation services. Requires organizations established under an agreement between or among motor common carriers of property to comply with specified requirements, including the right of independent action, the right to vote, and the prohibition against interfering in a change of any tariff item for the account of one of its member carriers. Requires a consignor or consignee requiring assistance in the loading or unloading of a motor vehicle transporting property in interstate commerce to either provide for such assistance or compensate for such assistance accordingly. Prohibits the provision of such assistance unless required. Establishes civil and criminal penalties for violations of such provision. Directs the Commission to require the use of written contracts for the transportation of specified property otherwise exempt from Commission jurisdiction, including livestock and agricultural commodities. Directs the Commission to issue a license to a person authorizing the person to be a broker for transportation of property if such person is found fit and willing to comply with the regulations of the Commission. Directs the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the States and the industry, to develop recommendations to provide a more efficient and equitable system of State regulations for interstate motor carriers. Permits any motor common carrier of property to apply to the Commission for approval of a pooling agreement with another motor common carrier of property. Sets forth the factors the Commission must consider in determining whether or not to approve such agreement, including the likelihood that such agreement will unduly restrain competition. Permits a motor common carrier of property to transport exempt commodities at the same time in which he transports commodities for which he holds a certificate. Permits the Commission to grant a motor carrier of property temporary authority to provide transportation to a place having no carrier capable of meeting the needs of the place. Permits the Commission to grant emergency temporary authority to such a carrier when the Commission determines there is not sufficient time to process an application for temporary authority. Sets forth Commission hearing, initial decision, and appellate procedures for those proceedings involving a motor common carrier of property. Sets forth procedures for consolidation, merger, and acquisition of control by a motor carrier of property. Prohibits a State or subdivision of a State from imposing discriminatory taxes upon a motor carrier of property.
Bill· HRH.R. 6424 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 February 1980
Directs the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to deny access by all Soviet vessels to all U. S. ports, until Soviet troops are withdrawn from Afghanistan.
Law· SS. 2253 (96th)open
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1980
Rock Island Transition Act - Directs the Interstate Commerce Commission to continue directed service over specified lines of the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad until April 2, 1980, or until such lines are sold. Directs the Commission to expedite proceedings involving the Rock Island. Requires the Commission to reach a final decision on specified proceedings involving a sale, transfer, or lease of any line of the Rock Island to a solvent carrier within a specified period. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to purchase redeemable preference shares or trustee certificates convertible to redeemable preference shares as necessary to facilitate the purchase of properties of the Rock Island by other railroads. Establishes a ceiling for the total par value of such shares which the Secretary may purchase. Exempts activities under this Act from the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act.
Bill· SS. 2252 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1980
Amends the Tariff Act of 1930 to exempt purchases of repair parts and equipment and repairs made in Panama from the duty otherwise owed by a U.S. vessel during the period of October 1, 1979 through December 31, 1981.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 496 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1980
Requires the Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific Railroad Company to maintain its entire railroad system as it existed on September 1, 1979, through August 31, 1980, unless: (1) any discontinuance or abandonment is authorized by the Interstate Commerce Commission; and (2) no affected State (or local or regional or transportation authority) opposes such action. Directs the Secretary of Transportation, pursuant to the Emergency Rail Services Act of 1970, to guarantee trustee certificates of such railroad. Raises the ceiling on the outstanding aggregate principal amount of all such certificates.
Law· SS. 2245 (96th)open
United States · United States Congress · 1 February 1980
Motor Carrier Reform Act of 1980 - Amends the Interstate Commerce Commission Act to amend the transportation policy of the United States to rely to the maximum extent feasible upon actual and potential competition to improve and maintain a sound, privately-owned motor carrier system which meets the transportation needs of the United States. Directs the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) to issue a certificate to a person as a motor common carrier of property if to do so would not be inconsistent with the present or future public convenience and necessity. Sets forth the factors the Commission must consider when determining such public convenience and necessity. Sets forth exceptions to such certification process, including applications to provide transportation services: (1) for points not served by a certified motor carrier of property; (2) as a direct substitute for abandoned rail service; and (3) for the United States Government for specified commodities. Limits protests to an application to provide transportation as a motor common carrier of property to those who already possess such authority or applied prior in time for the authority to handle such traffic, or to those whom the Commission grants leave to intervene. Prohibits any contract motor carrier of property from protesting any such application. Eliminates specified restrictions on motor carrier of property operations, including gateway restrictions, circuitous route limitations, narrow categories of commodities authorized, intermediate point service prohibitions, and one-way authority. Exempts from ICC regulation: (1) the transportation of specified agricultural commodities and uncooked meat; (2) the transportation by motor vehicle incidental to transportation by motor vehicle incidental to transportation by aircraft; (3) specified transportation by a motor vehicle operated by an owner or a person accompanied by an owner; and (4) specified transportation for compensation provided by a person who is a member of a corporate family for other members of the same corporate family. Eliminates the number of shippers to be served by the carrier as a factor to be considered by the Commission in deciding whether to approve the application of a person for a permit as a motor contract carrier. Eliminates Commission-imposed limitations on contract carrier operations with regard to geographic areas, industries, or persons to be served. Permits a person to hold both a certificate of a motor common carrier and a permit of a motor contract carrier. Permits a motor contract carrier of property to contract with a telephone, telegraph, or cable company to exchange services and perform specified services for a freight forwarder. Eliminates specified restrictions on line-haul transportation of property for at least 450 highway miles. Permits the Commission to amend or revoke any part of a motor contract carrier permit and issue in its place a certificate of public convenience and necessity. Prohibits the Commission from investigating, suspending, revising or revoking any rate proposed by a motor carrier of property or freight forwarder on the grounds that such rate is unreasonable on the basis that it is too high or too low except as specified. Directs the Commission to authorize revenue levels for common carriers that are adequate under efficient management to cover expenses, plus a reasonable profit to support and encourage capital outlays and investment. Sets forth the factors the Commission must consider when prescribing rates, classifications, rules, or practices for transportation or service by common carriers other than rail carriers. Defines the term "single-line rate" for the purpose of rate agreements. Permits motor common carriers of property to enter into agreements between two or more such carriers concerning rates, allowances, classifications and divisions. Permits the submission of such agreements to the Commission for approval. Sets forth the conditions for approval. Sets forth the responsibilities of a consignor or consignee who require that persons who own or operate motor vehicles be assisted in loading or unloading such vehicles. Establishes civil and criminal penalties for the violation of such responsibilities. Directs the Commission to issue a license to a qualifying person authorizing such person to be a broker for transportation of property. Directs the Commission to require the use of written contracts governing the interstate movement by motor vehicle of exempt agricultural commodities. Increases the amount of the total value of outstanding securities and other obligations of motor carriers exempt from Commission jurisdiction. Directs the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with State agencies and the motor carrier industry, to develop recommendations to be made to Congress to provide a more efficient and equitable system of State regulations for interstate motor carriers. Permits any motor common carrier of property that is a party to a pooling agreement to apply for Commission approval of such agreement. Requires the Commission to enter upon a hearing if it determines that such agreement is of major transportation importance and there is a substantial likelihood that the agreement will unduly restrain competition. Prohibits the Commission from requiring a motor carrier of property, without its consent, to include in such through route substantially less than the entire length of its route except as specified. Directs all carriers party to a through route and joint rate to promptly pay divisions or make interline settlements. Authorizes the Commission to grant a motor carrier of property temporary or emergency temporary authority to provide transportation to a place having no motor carrier capable of meeting the immediate needs of such place. Amends the nonrail proceedings for reaching an initial decision and for deciding an application for rehearing, reargument, or reconsideration. Authorizes the Commission to bring a civil action through its own attorneys to enjoin violations and compel compliance with specified provisions of such Act. Exempts from Commission jurisdiction: (1) motor vehicles controlled and operated by cooperative associations or a federation of cooperative associations when providing specified transportation services; (2) services of a shipper or a group of shippers on a nonprofit basis. Permits the Commission to prescribe specified record keeping and filing requirements and to conduct inspections. Prohibits discrimination in the provision of services by a freight forwarder or in the consideration of a freight forwarder permit application.
Bill· SS. 2246 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 February 1980
Requires the Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific Railroad Company to maintain its entire railroad system as it existed on September 1, 1979 for a period of 90 days, unless: (1) any discontinuance or abandonment is authorized by the Interstate Commerce Commission; and (2) no affected State (or local or regional transportation authority) opposes such action. Directs the Secretary of Transportation, pursuant to the Emergency Rail Services Act of 1970, to guarantee trustee certificates of such railroad. Raises the ceiling in the outstanding aggregate principal amount of all such certificates.
Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 139 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1980
Requires the Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific Railroad Company to maintain its entire railroad system as it existed on September 1, 1979, for a period of 90 days, unless: (1) any discontinuance or abandonment is authorized by the Interstate Commerce Commission; and (2) no affected State (or local or regional transportation authority) opposes such action. Directs the Secretary of Transportation, pursuant to the Emergency Rail Services Act of 1970, to guarantee trustee certificates of such railroad. Raises the ceiling in the outstanding aggregate principal amount of all such certificates.
Bill· HRH.R. 6381 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1980
Amends the Milwaukee Railroad Restructuring Act to require the Interstate Commerce Commission to order directed service over specified lines of the Milwaukee Railroad located in South Dakota if such State creates a State rail authority to acquire and operate such lines.
Bill· HRH.R. 6398 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1980
Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1980 - Title I: Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety - Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish and revise within one year safety rules and regulations to assure that: (1) commercial motor vehicles are safely maintained, equipped, loaded, and operated; (2) the responsibilities imposed upon drivers of such vehicles do not impair a driver's ability to operate such vehicle safely; (3) the physical condition of such drivers will be adequate to enable them to drive safely; and (4) the operation of such vehicles does not create deleterious effects on the physical condition of such drivers. Permits the Secretary to waive such rules and regulations if to do so is in the public interest and consistent with the safe operation of commercial motor vehicles. Directs the Secretary and the Director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor to undertake, and submit to Congress within one year a study of health hazards to which operators of commercial vehicles are exposed. Requires the development of such materials and information as are necessary to enable such employees to carry out their employment free from recognized hazards capable of causing serious injury. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct research, development, demonstration, and training activities to develop such rules and regulations, to design and develop improved enforcement procedures and technologies, and to familiarize affected persons with such regulations. Authorizes the Secretary to require persons subject to this Act to maintain such records and make such reports as are necessary to insure compliance with this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct investigations and inspections without notice to enforce this Act. Requires the Secretary to timely investigate nonfrivolous complaints alleging a material violation of any rule or regulation issued under this Act. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for such violations. Provides for judicial review of final orders with respect to such alleged violations. Prohibits an employer from discriminating or taking punitive actions against employees who complain of safety violations, who participate in any proceeding regarding such alleged violations, or who refuse to operate a vehicle when to do so would materially violate motor carrier safety violations. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States for up to 80 percent of the costs of the development or implementation of programs for the enforcement of commercial motor vehicle safety regulations. Authorizes appropriations for such purpose for fiscal years 1981, 1982 and 1983. Requires States which agree to enforce this Act to submit an enforcement plan to the Secretary for approval. Sets forth requirements which must be included in any such plan. Permits any State agency to adopt additional or more stringent rules and regulations which are consistent with the Federal rules and regulations. Permits any State to retain existing hours-of-service regulations except where such regulations diminish commercial motor vehicle safety or are unduly burdensome on interstate commerce. Requires the Secretary to submit annual reports to the Congress regarding current plans to upgrade the safety and health of operators of commercial motor vehicles. Directs the Secretary to submit a report to Congress within 12 months regarding the advisability of establishing a national commercial vehicle driver register to upgrade safety through improved monitoring of traffic accidents and violations and of multiple State licensing. Exempts vehicles engaged in farming or logging operations from the requirements of this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish a Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Advisory Committee to review research projects and proposed regulations, make recommendations and advise the Secretary on matters relating to the activities and functions of the Department in the field of commercial motor vehicle safety. States that membership on such Committee shall be appointed by the Secretary.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 490 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1980
Requires the Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific Railroad Company to maintain its entire railroad system as it existed on September 1, 1979, through August 31, 1980, unless: (1) any discontinuance or abandonment is authorized by the Interstate Commerce Commission; and (2) no affected State (or local or regional or transportation authority) opposes such action. Directs the Secretary of Transportation, pursuant to the Emergency Rail Services Act of 1970, to guarantee trustee certificates of such railroad. Raises the ceiling on the outstanding aggregate principal amount of all such certificates.
Bill· SS. 2204 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1980
Deauthorizes the navigation project for the Kalihi Channel, Hawaii. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to modify any regulations relating to the Kalihi Channel bridge consistent with such deauthorization.
Bill· SS. 2193 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1980
Amends the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 to authorize appropriations to the United States Railway Association for the purpose of carrying out its administrative expenses under such Act for fiscal year 1981.
Bill· SS. 2191 (96th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1980
Amends the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act to exempt manufacturers of fewer than 10,000 passenger automobiles in any model year from the average fuel economy standards for such year. Exempts from such standards manufacturers whose domestically manufactured production commenced after a specified date. States that the failure of any manufacturer to comply with any average fuel economy standard shall not be deemed unlawful conduct if the manufacturer has sufficient credits or time in which to gain such credits to offset the amount or any penalty which would otherwise be assessed. Permits credits earned for exceeding the required fuel economy levels for any given model year to be used to offset any penalties such manufacturer may have incurred for the three consecutive model years prior to such year or any penalties such manufacturer may incur in the succeeding three consecutive model years.
Law· HRH.R. 6242 (96th)open
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1980
Establishes, for five years, a Towing Safety Advisory Committee to advise, consult with and make recommendations to the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating on matters relating to shallow-draft inland waterway navigation and towing safety. Sets forth the composition of such Committee to be appointed by the Secretary, including representatives from the towing industry, port authorities, maritime labor, shippers, and the United States Army Corps of Engineers.