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Bill· HRH.R. 3700 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 27 May 1981
Entitles an air traffic controller to training if such controller: (1) is not a supervisor; (2) has completed at least eight years of service; (3) is not eligible for immediate retirement; (4) notifies the appropriate review board of any intention to apply for training; (5) submits an application which sets forth a proposed training program and includes a physician's certification that such employee is suited for training; (6) notifies the Secretary of an intention to participate in an approved training program; and (7) is to be removed from duty by the Secretary of Transportation because of medical disqualification, inability to maintain technical proficiency, or physical or mental health requirements. Directs the Secretary to: (1) designate Department of Transportation employees as regional career counselors who shall assist controllers in developing training programs; and (2) establish regional review boards to consider applications for training and evaluate training programs to determine whether such programs will result in successful training and job placement. Prohibits such a board from approving any program the duration of which exceeds two years. Requires that a controller, on request, receive assistance in being placed in a vacant position in another agency upon completion of training. Requires the Secretary to reimburse a controller for the expenses of approved training.
Bill· SS. 1271 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Entitles an air traffic controller to training if such controller: (1) is not a supervisor; (2) has completed at least eight years of service; (3) is not eligible for immediate retirement; (4) notifies the appropriate review board of any intention to apply for training; (5) submits an application which sets forth a proposed training program and includes a physician's certification that such employee is suited for training; (6) notifies the Secretary of an intention to participate in an approved training program; and (7) is to be removed from duty by the Secretary of Transportation because of medical disqualification, inability to maintain technical proficiency, or physical or mental health requirements. Directs the Secretary to: (1) designate Department of Transportation employees as regional career counselors who shall assist controllers in developing training programs; and (2) establish regional review boards to consider applications for training and evaluate training programs to determine whether such programs will result in successful training and job placement. Prohibits such a board from approving any program the duration of which exceeds two years. Requires that a controller, on request, receive assistance in being placed in a vacant position in another agency upon completion of training. Requires the Secretary to reimburse a controller for the expenses of approved training.
Bill· SS. 1261 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Authorizes the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to construct the navigation project at Brazos Island Harbor, Texas.
Bill· SS. 1257 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Modifies the navigation project at the Houston Ship Channel to maintain a forty-foot project depth in the Barbour Terminal Channel, Texas.
Bill· SS. 1270 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Declares the Port of Houston Authority Bridge over Greens Bayou, Texas, to be for all purposes a "lawful bridge" as defined in a specified Act which provides for the alteration of certain bridges over navigable waters of the United States and for the apportionment of the cost of such alterations between the United States and the owners of such bridges. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to reimburse the bridge owner for work done prior to the date of enactment of this Act which would have been the responsibility of the United States.
Bill· SS. 1258 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Modifies the navigation project at the Houston Ship Channel, Texas, to maintain a forty-foot depth in Greens Bayou.
Bill· SS. 1268 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Modifies the Rio Grande bank protection project to permit its bank protection activities to be undertaken in Starr County, Texas, in accordance with such specifications as may be prepared for such purpose by the International Boundary and Water Commission, United States and Mexico.
Law· HRH.R. 3663 (97th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Motor Bus Act of 1981 - Sets forth the findings of Congress in regard to the need for a safe, competitive, and fuel-efficient motor bus system. Requires the appropriate Congressional committees to conduct periodic oversight hearings on the effects of this Act no less than annually for five years following the date of enactment of this Act. Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to include the interstate motor carrier transportation of passengers in the overall transportation policy of the United States. Revises the entry policy for motor carriers of passengers. Eliminates specified restrictions on the operations of motor carriers of passengers, including charter and special operations carriers. Directs the Interstate Commerce Commission to: (1) eliminate gateway restrictions and circuitous route limitations; and (2) implement procedures to expedite processing of applications seeking removal of operating restrictions. Authorizes a motor carrier of passengers to provide transportation between any two points on its regular routes regardless of whether such points lie within the same State. Sets forth the zone of pricing freedom for motor carriers of passengers. Permits the Commission to increase rates within specified percentage ranges. Declares that rates and fares implemented pursuant to this Act shall be subject to specified antitrust laws. Describes the use of rate bureaus and motor carrier brokers of passengers by motor carriers of passengers. Authorizes the Commission to grant, to motor carriers of passengers, emergency temporary authority to provide transportation. Amends the Motor Carrier Act of 1980 to establish minimum levels of financial responsibility for any vehicle operated in interstate commerce by a motor carrier of passengers. Prohibits a State, political subdivision thereof, interstate agency, or other political agency from enacting or enforcing any law or regulation relating to the discontinuance of regular-route service by an authorized motor common carrier of passengers. Directs the Interstate Commerce Commission to promulgate rules for the discontinuance of essential intrastate and interstate regular route service by such carriers. Describes procedures postponing or challenging such discontinuances. Empowers the Commission to enjoin discontinuances that do not comply with such procedures. Sets forth procedures for certification of State authorities that regulate passenger fares and express rates. Authorizes a motor common carrier of passengers to provide: (1) charter passenger service in the same vehicle and at the same time as it provides regular route, scheduled passenger service; and (2) transportation for newspapers, baggage of passengers, or mail in the same motor vehicle with passengers or in a separate vehicle of any type. Directs the Commission to report to the President and Congress on more flexible entry policies for the motor bus industry. Requires the Secretary of Transportation and the Commission to report to the President and Congress on the relationship between the ownership and location of bus terminals and the level of competition among bus carriers. Prohibits a State or subdivision thereof from levying a discriminatory or unreasonably burdensome tax on interstate motor carrier transportation.
Bill· HRH.R. 3662 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Bus Regulatory Modernization and Improvement Act of 1981 - Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to include the interstate motor carrier transportation of passengers in the overall transportation policy of the United States. Directs the Interstate Commerce Commission to issue a certificate, under specified circumstances, to a person authorizing that person to provide transportation subject to the jurisdiction of the Commission as a motor common carrier of passengers. Places upon the applicant for such certificate the burden of proving that: (1) he is fit, willing, and able to provide such transportation; and (2) such transportation would serve a useful public purpose. Lists factors to be considered by the Commission in its determination of whether an application is consistent with the public convenience and necessity. Prohibits the Commission from issuing such certificates to specified public carriers and foreign governments. Exempts specified charter and special operations carriers from certain requirements of this Act. Sets forth procedures by which the Commission shall approve an application for a certificate. Directs the Commission to promulgate rules of procedure for processing such applications. Revises criteria concerning: (1) the investigation and suspension of new nonrail carrier rates, classifications, rules, and practices; and (2) ratemaking and rate bureaus to include motor carriers of passengers. Amends the Motor Carrier Act of 1980 to increase the membership of the Motor Carrier Ratemaking Study Commission to include a representative of the National Bus Traffic Association. Amends the Interstate Commerce Act to revise State authority over intrastate transportation to include transportation provided by motor carriers of passengers. Directs the Interstate Commerce Commission to establish procedures by which the proposed certification of any State with respect to regulation by that State of motor carriers of passengers may be challenged. Prohibits a State from denying to any motor carrier of passengers any general rate increase or fuel adjustment surcharge on intrastate traffic that the Commission has approved for interstate traffic. Prohibits a State, political subdivision thereof, interstate agency, or other political agency from enacting or enforcing any law or regulation relating to the discontinuance of regular-route service by an authorized motor common carrier of passengers. Directs the Interstate Commerce Commission to promulgate rules for the discontinuance of essential intrastate and interstate regular route service by such carriers. Authorizes the Commission to order a carrier to continue service on such routes under certain circumstances. Prohibits a State or subdivision thereof from levying a discriminatory or unreasonably burdensome tax on interstate motor carrier transportation. Amends such Act and the Securities Act of 1933 to specify that only motor carriers of property (currently "motor carriers") may issue securities and assume obligations and liabilities. Amends the Motor Carrier Act of 1980 to establish minimum levels of financial responsibility for any vehicle operated in interstate commerce by a motor carrier of passengers. Requires, under certain circumstances, that the Secretary of Transportation certify to the Commission that an applicant is in compliance with applicable Federal motor carrier safety regulations.
Bill· HRH.R. 3673 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Modifies the navigation project at the Houston Ship Channel, Texas, to maintain a forty-foot depth in Greens Bayou.
Bill· HRH.R. 3675 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Declares the Port of Houston Authority Bridge over Greens Bayou, Texas, to be for all purposes a "lawful bridge" as defined in a specified Act which provides for the alteration of certain bridges over navigable waters of the United States and for the apportionment of the cost of such alterations between the United States and the owners of such bridges. Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to reimburse the bridge owner for work done prior to the date of enactment of this Act which would have been the responsibility of the United States.
Bill· HRH.R. 3674 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 21 May 1981
Modifies the navigation project at the Houston Ship Channel to maintain a forty-foot project depth in the Barbour Terminal Channel, Texas.
Bill· HRH.R. 3637 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 20 May 1981
Amends the Shipping Act, 1916, to redefine the term "common carrier by water in foreign commerce" to include persons engaged as common carriers in specified ocean transportation of property who: (1) advertise, solicit, or arrange, within the United States, for such transportation; or (2) issue or deliver ocean or through intermodal bills of lading or other contracts of affreightment for such transportation. Directs such common carriers by water to file with the Federal Maritime Commission within 90 days of enactment of this Act: (1) their tariffs; and (2) a designation of agent and principal place of business within the United States. Sets forth the effective dates of such tariffs.
Bill· HRH.R. 3611 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 19 May 1981
Ports and Navigation Improvement Act of 1981 - Directs the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to conduct, on an expedited basis, dredging and maintenance operations on the Port of Los Angeles Port of Long Beach, California. Specifies where dredged material from such projects shall be placed. Authorizes local governmental authorities to undertake such projects upon approval by the Secretary. Requires that the Secretary, in consultation with appropriate agencies, establish a project schedule for all agency decisions relating to such projects. Limits review of any final agency decision that is covered by a project schedule to the United States Court for the Central District of California. Gives such an action precedence over all other matters pending on the court's docket.
Bill· SS. 1208 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 1981
Federal Aid Highway Authorizations Act of 1981 - Amends the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 to revise the authorization of appropriations for fiscal years 1983 through 1990 for the Interstate Highway System. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to apportion, for fiscal years 1983 and 1984, the sums authorized to be appropriated for expenditures on the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways according to specified factors. Authorizes appropriations out of the Highway Trust Fund for fiscal years 1982 through 1986 for: (1) the Federal-aid primary system; (2) the Federal-aid rural program; (3) the Federal-aid urban program; (4) forest highways; (5) public lands highways; (6) bridge replacement and rehabilitation; and (7) highway safety improvements. Prohibits any State from receiving less than one-half of one percent of the total apportionment for the Interstate System for each of fiscal years 1983 through 1987. Revises apportionments for the highway bridge replacement and rehabilitation program. Amends the Highway Safety Act of 1978 to limit, to fiscal year 1981, the authorization of appropriations for: (1) highway safety programs; (2) bridge reconstruction and replacement; (3) the elimination of hazards; (4) rail-highway crossings and demonstration projects; and (5) bikeway construction projects. Declares that the unobligated balance of contract authority for the Great River Road shall lapse on September 30, 1981. Amends the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1978 to extend the authorization of appropriations from fiscal year 1983 through 1987 for resurfacing, restoring, and rehabilitating specified lanes on the Interstate System. Authorizes appropriations, out of the Highway Trust Fund, for fiscal years 1982 through 1986 for substitute highway and mass transit projects. Increases the authorization of appropriations for emergency highway and bridge repairs. Limits to a specified sum the total of all obligations for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs for fiscal year 1982. Directs the Secretary to control the obligation of such limitation according to a specified formula. Prohibits the Secretary from distributing amounts authorized for administrative expenses and forest highways.
Bill· SS. 1199 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 1981
Amtrak Improvement Act of 1981 - Amends the Rail Passenger Service Act to revise the goals of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak), to minimize Federal subsidies, and to improve the overall service offered by Amtrak. Repeals provisions of such Act concerning the basic rail passenger system. Revises Amtrak's financing procedures concerning ownership and issuance of common and preferred stock. Repeals the provision requiring the Interstate Commerce Commission to study through routes and joint fares between Amtrak and other intercity common carriers. Declares that Amtrak shall not be required to pay any additional taxes as a result of its expenditures to acquire or improve real property or equipment used in the provision of rail passenger service. Exempts Amtrak from the requirement of any State or local law that specifies the minimum number of crewmembers who must be employed to operate a passenger train. Provides that any discontinuance or reduction of routes, trains, or services made by Amtrak shall not be reviewable in any court except on petition of the Attorney General of the United States. Revises requirements concerning Amtrak's monthly and annual reports to Congress. Allows a railroad or other person to conduct intercity rail passenger service over any route over which Amtrak is performing scheduled service pursuant to a contract. Deletes provisions concerning special or charter train contract operations. Deauthorizes, effective October 1, 1981, Amtrak from operating commuter rail passenger service under agreement with a State. Permits any State or group of States, regional or local agency, or other person to request Amtrak to institute or retain specified rail passenger service. Sets forth assurances that must accompany such request, including certain financial guarantees. Authorizes Amtrak to enter into agreements for the provision of such service. Directs that funds provided by Amtrak for such service shall remain available until expended. Allows such agreements to be renewed every two years. Authorizes Amtrak to continue commuter rail passenger service so long as Amtrak is reimbursed for 100 percent of the available losses of operating such service. Deletes provisions relating to long distance routes, including quadrant routes and the Inter-American train to the Mexican border. Authorizes Amtrak to make necessary changes in the Route and Service Criteria. Repeals provisions prohibiting Amtrak from contracting out any work normally performed by employees in a bargaining unit covered by a contract. Sets forth protective arrangements for Amtrak employees, including moving expenses, insurance coverage, and new career training. Declares that rights afforded to employees under this Act shall be coequal to the rights afforded under the Milwaukee Railroad Restructuring Act and the Rock Island Railroad Transition and Employee Assistance Act. Requires Amtrak, beginning in fiscal year 1982, to recover through revenues at least 50 percent of its costs (excluding capital costs). Directs Amtrak to discontinue routes, trains, and services as necessary to comply with such requirement. Requires Amtrak to reduce its management costs by at least ten percent by October 1, 1983. Revises the authorization of appropriations for Amtrak for fiscal years 1982 and 1983. Declares it the intent of Congress to provide incentives to encourage any person to undertake rail passenger service. Exempts such service from regulation (except safety regulations) by the Federal Government. Amends the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 to revise provisions concerning collective bargaining and employee protection agreements. Directs Amtrak, representatives of labor, and the American Association of Railroads to report jointly to Congress regarding their efforts to achieve greater efficiencies in management and labor practices. Amends the Rail Passenger Service Act to revise limits on funding for advertising and promotion of rail service on a local level. Directs Amtrak, within three months of the date of enactment of this Act, to report to Congress on the actual and potential problems encountered by Amtrak in entering into agreements regarding direct employment of rail passenger operating personnel.
Bill· SS. 1198 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 15 May 1981
Highway Safety Act of 1981 - Amends the Highway Safety Act of 1978 to authorize appropriations, out of the Highway Trust Fund, for fiscal years 1982 through 1984 for highway safety research and development. Declares that the unobligated balance of contract authority for highway safety programs and innovative project grants pursuant to such Act shall lapse on September 30, 1981. Directs that each State shall have a highway safety program designed to reduce traffic deaths and injuries by: (1) identifying its highway safety problems; (2) adopting measures to reduce such problems; (3) evaluating the effectiveness of such measures. Revises requirements of such State highway safety programs. Repeals provisions relating to: (1) school bus driver training; and (2) innovative project grants. Revises penalties for States that do not adequately enforce the 55 mile per hour national maximum speed limit.
Bill· HRH.R. 3577 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1981
Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1920, to suspend regulations prohibiting the transportation of forest products to the east and gulf coasts of the United States and to the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico from any ports on the west coast of the United States in vessels neither built in nor documented under the laws of the U.S. Allows such vessels to be used whenever the Secretary of Commerce determines that domestic vessels are unavailable for such transportation. Specifies conditions under which such suspension shall terminate.
Bill· HRH.R. 3569 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1981
Directs the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to reroute Nebraska Highway Numbered 12, with the necessary connections to Nebraska Highway Numbered 14, through the relocated town of Niobrara, Nebraska as part of the flood control project for that city.
Bill· HRH.R. 3568 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1981
Amtrak Improvement Act of 1981 - Amends the Rail Passenger Service Act to add new goals for the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak), including: (1) improvement by at least 30 percent within two years of the number of passenger miles generated systemwide per dollar of Federal investment; (2) operation of Amtrak trains to all station stops within five minutes of the time established in public timetables; and (3) operation of commuter service, through the Amtrak Commuter Services Corporation, on an equal priority with intercity service. Revises the membership of the board of directors of Amtrak. Prohibits Amtrak from being charged for the cost of any customs inspection or immigration procedure in connection with the provision of Amtrak services. Directs Amtrak to eliminate the deficit in its onboard food and beverage operations by September 30, 1982. Allows such operations to be contracted out to the private sector. Exempts Amtrak from State and local taxes to the same extent as the United States is so exempt. Revises the number and type of reports to be transmitted by Amtrak and the Interstate Commerce Commission to Congress and the President. Increases the percentage of costs to be paid by a State or group of States for rail service beyond the basic system. Revises procedures for evaluating the market potential and cost of instituting such service. Disqualifies from assistance under such Act proposed service that cannot reasonably be expected to achieve a certain ratio of revenues to operating expenses. Directs Amtrak to operate such service despite the above restrictions if: (1) a State or agency agrees to pay 100 percent of the annual loss of such service; and (2) sufficient equipment is available for such service. Sets forth criteria by which fare increases shall be proposed and become effective. Requires that at least one percent of all revenues generated by each route under such Act shall be dedicated to advertising and promotion of such service on a local level. Directs Amtrak to submit amendments to the route and service criteria to Congress. Provides for veto of such an amendment by disapproval by either House of Congress within 120 days. Requires that Amtrak review annually each route in the basic system (formerly long distance routes only) to determine whether specified criteria are being met. Discontinues those lines that fail to meet such criteria. Directs Amtrak to evaluate the financial requirements for operating the basic rail service system with route additions. Authorizes Amtrak to take specified actions to reduce operating costs, including the reduction or cancellation of certain lines. Repeals provisions concerning long distance quadrant routes, including the Inter-American train to the Mexican border. Declares that any change in the basic system made by Amtrak shall be subject to review under this Act but shall not be reviewable in any court. Directs Amtrak to continue high frequency intercity rail passenger service under agreements with States or transportation agencies if such service meets certain criteria. Limits payments for employee protection during fiscal year 1982. Extends the availability of free or reduced rate rail transportation for specified employees. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 for the purposes of such Act. Limits, to a specified sum, Amtrak's expenditures for food and beverage operations. Increases the amount of funds available for purchase and rehabilitation loans. Eliminates the loan guaranty fee formerly collected by the Secretary of transportation on such loans. Declares that any deferral by Amtrak of interest payments to the Federal Financing Bank during fiscal years 1982 and 1983 shall not constitute default. Directs Amtrak, by January 15, 1982, to report to Congress its recommendations concerning the development of rail corridors.
Bill· HRH.R. 3562 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1981
Civil Aeronautics Board Sunset Act of 1981 - Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to revise provisions concerning Federal preemption in regard to rates, routes, or services of air carriers. Repeals provisions concerning Civil Aeronautics Board reports on: (1) State subsidies for small community air service; and (2) air carrier marketing of tours. Eliminates certificates of public convenience and necessity for air carriers engaged in domestic transportation. Repeals special operating authorizations and requirements concerning certificates for all-cargo air service. Revises requirements concerning certification of fitness for foreign air transportation. Prohibits air carrier operating certificates from being issued unless applicants for such certificates comply with all applicable insurance regulations. Repeals provisions concerning the transportation of mail by air carriers. Grants the Civil Aeronautics Board the right to intervene in specified merger and interlocking relationship cases proceeding under the antitrust laws. Requires that the Board be a party to such actions which involve foreign air transportation. Amends such Act, the Federal Trade Commission Act, and the Consumer Credit Protection Act to repeal provisions concerning the treatment of unfair competitive practices. Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to revise provisions concerning guaranteed essential air transportation to small communities. Deregulates domestic cargo and mail air transportation. Declares the necessity of providing safe and adequate service for such transportation. Directs the Board to reduce reporting requirements imposed on air carriers under such Act to the minimum necessary to accomplish the purposes of such Act. Terminates the Civil Aeronautics Board and transfers specified functions to the Secretary of Transportation, the Postal Service, and the Federal Trade Commission. Directs the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to make such determinations as the Board and the: (1) Secretary; (2) Postal Services; or (3) Commission may agree are necessary to effectuate such transfers. Declares that all orders, rules, and regulations issued or granted by the Board shall continue in effect according to their terms. Amends specified Acts, including the International Aviation Facilities Act and the Transportation Act of 1940, to reflect the termination of the Board. Accelerates, to specified dates, the termination of the Board.
Bill· HRH.R. 3559 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 12 May 1981
Conrail Private Sector Ownership Act of 1981 - Title I: General Provisions - Sets forth the findings of Congress with regard to freight and commuter rail service in the Midwest and Northeast United States. Title II: Conrail - Amends the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 to direct that any investment by the United States Railway Association in the securities of the Consolidated Rail Corporation (Conrail) after October 1, 1981, shall be by purchase of preferred stock. Requires that the Association determine the timing and amount of such purchases. Directs that any request by Conrail for the purchase of such stock shall be filed with the Association within a specified time period. Lists conditions that must be met by Conrail before the Association may purchase such stock. Permits the Association to modify such conditions and to cease purchasing such stock. Sets forth procedures by which Conrail may appeal the decision of the Association to cease stock purchases. Provides for benefits to be paid by employees of Conrail subsidiaries. Directs Conrail to issue annually stock to such employees and personnel in amounts equal to the amount of such benefits provided. Requires State and local governments in States that have more than 100 route miles of the Conrail system to provide specified benefits to Conrail. Directs the Association to allocate such benefits among the States and to notify Governors of the required contribution of such States. Authorizes appropriations for the Association to carry out the purposes of this Act. Revises: (1) the membership of the Association's Board of Directors; and (2) the functions of the Association. Requires that uncommitted funds of the Association be kept on hand, on deposit, or lawfully invested. Exempts the Association from all taxation, except real property taxation. Directs the Association to report to Congress concerning stock purchases and the recapitalization of Conrail. Directs the Association to recapitalize Conrail under certain circumstances. Abolishes the Association and transfers its assets and liabilities to the Office of Management and Budget after Conrail is recapitalized. Directs Conrail to make necessary information available to the Association so that it may carry out its functions under this Act. Transfers the responsibility for representing the United States in any civil action brought by the estate of a railroad in reorganization against the United States to the Attorney General who may, in turn, establish an independent office within the Department of Justice with responsibility for defending against such actions. Reorganizes the structure of Conrail, including the Board of Directors. Prohibits Conrail from requiring permission from the Secretary of Transportation to substitute manual block signal systems for automatic systems on certain main lines. Directs the Secretary and the representatives of the various classes of Conrail employees to enter into agreements providing protection for such employees. Declares that any eligible Conrail employee who is transferred to the Conrail Commuter Corporation or the Amtrak Commuter Services Corporation shall remain eligible for such benefits. Sets forth procedures for employee terminations and the payment of termination allowances. Describes hiring procedures to be followed by rail carriers regulated by the Interstate Commerce Commission. Directs the Railroad Retirement Board to maintain a register of persons separated from railroad employment who are available for employment in the railroad industry. Directs Conrail to provide the Board names of former employees who elect to appear on such register. Terminates such register and employee placement assistance three years after the effective date of this Act. Provides for the election and treatment of benefits by protected employees. Grants Conrail the right to assign, reassign, and consolidate work, formerly performed on the rail properties acquired from a railroad in reorganization, to any location or position on its system if it does not remove such work from a collective bargaining agreement. Limits such authority to the period during which benefits are provided under this Act. Requires that a new collective-bargaining agreement be negotiated between Conrail and representatives of the employees of a railroad in reorganization. Authorizes Conrail and other employers with protected employees to transfer such employees, in inverse seniority order, to a vacancy on any part of the rail system. Sets forth conditions and limitations on such transfers. Directs Conrail, Amtrak, or an acquiring carrier to process and pay employee and personal injury claims. Provides for direct reimbursement by the Association for such claims. Limits Federal and Conrail liability under such collective bargaining agreements. Authorizes appropriations through fiscal year 1983 for such activities. Prohibits a State from enforcing any law, rule, or standard that requires a specified number of employees to perform a particular task or to pay protective benefits to employees. Repeals Title V (Employee Protection) of the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973. Authorizes Conrail to file for: (1) a certificate of abandonment; or (2) a notice of insufficient revenues for any line that is a part of the Conrail system. Makes any employee adversely affected by such an abandonment eligible for employee protection under this Act. Declares that any cost reductions resulting from the provisions of this Act shall not be used to limit: (1) the maximum level of any rate charged by Conrail for rail services; (2) the amount of any increase in any such rate (including joint rates); or (3) an otherwise lawful surcharge or cancellation. Title III: Commuter Rail Passenger Service - Creates a timetable in regard to the transfer of commuter service from Conrail to the Conrail Commuter Corporation and the Amtrak Commuter Services Corporation. Establishes the Conrail Commuter Corporation under the laws of a State as a Conrail subsidiary. Specifies the applicability of certain laws to the Corporation. Exempts the Corporation from payment of all taxes imposed by a State or other taxing authority. Sets forth the corporate and financial structure of the Corporation. Authorizes the Corporation to issue common stock to Conrail. Sets forth procedures for the transfer of Conrail employees to the Corporation. Provides such employees with protection and benefits equal to those provided by Conrail. Requires that collective-bargaining agreements be in effect among the Corporation, Conrail, and such transferred employees within 240 days after the effective date of this Act. Specifies benefits to be included in such agreements. Directs the Corporation, 210 days after the effective date of this Act, to assume responsibility for the management and operation of all commuter services being operated by Conrail. Grants full trackage rights to the Corporation so that such commuter services may be operated. Transfers the necessary rail properties from Conrail to the Corporation. Relieves Conrail of obligations to operate commuter services except those under agreement with Amtrak. Requires that commuter agencies providing rail service continuation payments to the Corporation notify Amtrak Commuter whether such agency intends: (1) to offer similar payments to Amtrak Commuter; and (2) for Amtrak Commuter to assume its commuter service operations. Describes procedures for the transfer of Corporation employees to Amtrak Commuter. Provides such employees with protection and benefits equal to those provided by the Corporation. Requires that collective bargaining agreements be in effect among the Corporation, Amtrak Commuter, and such transferred employees within 540 days after the effective date of this Act. Specifies benefits to be included in such agreements. Dissolves the Corporation 540 days after the effective date of this Act. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 for commencing and terminating Corporation operations under this Act. Amends the Rail Passenger Service Act to establish, as a goal of Amtrak, the operation of commuter service, through the Amtrak Commuter Services Corporation, on an equal priority with intercity service. Declares that Amtrak Commuter shall not be an agency or instrumentality of the Federal Government but a contract operator of commuter service. States the applicability of specified laws to Amtrak Commuter. Exempts Amtrak Commuter from payment of certain taxes. Sets forth the corporate and financial structure of Amtrak Commuter. Authorizes Amtrak Commuter to issue common stock to Amtrak. Authorizes Amtrak Commuter to: (1) own, operate, or contract for the operation of commuter service; (2) conduct research and development; and (3) acquire by purchase, gift, or by contracting for the use of physical facilities and equipment necessary to commuter service operations. Authorizes Amtrak Commuter to operate commuter service under agreements with commuter agencies. Directs Amtrak Commuter to operate commuter service which Conrail was obligated to provide on the effective date of this Act. Allows Amtrak Commuter to discontinue commuter service to such agencies under certain conditions. Directs Amtrak and the Corporation to transfer to Amtrak Commuter such rail properties as may be necessary for the operation of commuter service. Requires the Board of Directors of Amtrak Commuter to develop and recommend to Amtrak equitable policies for access to and maintenance of the Northeast Corridor. Authorizes appropriations to establish a working capital revolving fund to be used by Amtrak Commuter. Directs the Interstate Commerce Commission, within 120 days of the date of enactment of this Act, to determine costing methodology for compensation to Amtrak for the right-of-way related costs for the operation of commuter rail passenger service over the Northeast corridor and other properties owned by Amtrak. Prohibits judicial review of such determination by the Commission. Title IV: Amtrak - Prescribes goals for Amtrak, including: (1) improvement by at least 30 percent over two years of the number of passenger miles generated systemwide per dollar of Federal investment; (2) elimination of the food and beverage service deficit; and (3) operation of Amtrak trains at higher speeds and on reliable schedules. Reduces the membership of the Amtrak board of directors to 11. Revises the selection and structure of the Board. Exempts Amtrak from the costs levied by any Federal agency for customs inspection or immigration procedures. Directs Amtrak to implement policies that will eliminate the deficit in its onboard food and beverage operations by October 1, 1982. Exempts Amtrak from specified State and local taxes. Eliminates certain reports to Congress and the President concerning rail operations. Revises procedures for route additions, discontinuances, and rail fare increases. Directs Amtrak to review annually each route in the basic system (formerly long distance routes only) to determine if such route meets specified criteria. Discontinues those lines that fail to meet such criteria. Requires that Amtrak reduce the long-term avoidable loss of operating service on long-distance routes by specified amounts. Describes actions to be taken to achieve such reduction. Directs Amtrak to submit amendments to the route and service criteria to Congress. States that such amendments shall take effect in 120 days unless either House of Congress adopts a resolution disapproving such amendments. Repeals provisions concerning long distance quadrant routes, including the Inter-American train to the Mexican border. Declares that any change in the basic system made by Amtrak shall be subject to review under this Act but shall not be reviewable in any court. Directs Amtrak to continue high-frequency intercity rail passenger service under agreements with States or transportation agencies if such service meets certain criteria. Extends the availability of free or reduced rate rail transportation for specified employees. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 for the purposes of such Act. Limits Amtrak's expenditures for food and beverage operations to a specified amount. Eliminates the loan guaranty fee formerly collected by the Secretary on purchase and rehabilitation loans. Declares that any deferral by Amtrak of interest payments to the Federal Financing Bank during fiscal years 1982 and 1983 shall not constitute default. Directs Amtrak to develop service on specified rail passenger corridors. Requires that a State or private party benefitting from such corridor service contribute annually at least ten percent of the operating cost of such service. Title V: Miscellaneous Provisions - Directs the Secretary to submit to Congress, by April 1, 1982, a plan for the disposition of the assets of Conrail. Describes the contents of such plan and allows an extension to such deadline. Requires any such plan to be approved within 90 days of submission by a concurrent resolution in both Houses of Congress. Authorizes the Secretary to submit to Congress, after April 1, 1982, a plan for the sale of Conrail's assets, including a description of benefits from such sale to the Northeast region. Requires Conrail to notify the Secretary and Congress, before April 1, 1983, if it is unable to continue operations within the requirements of the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973. Authorizes the Secretary to sell Conrail's assets and vote its stock after such notification. Amends the Department of Transportation Act to repeal provisions concerning financial assistance to States for rail freight assistance programs. Reduces the Federal share of other rail service assistance programs. Revises State rail service assistance entitlements and eligibility therefor. Directs each State to retain a contingent interest for the Federal share of funds in any line receiving rail freight assistance under this Act if an application for abandonment is filed or such line is sold or disposed of in any way after it has received Federal assistance. Directs the Secretary, within 45 days of the effective date of this Act, to petition the special court for an order to transfer all Conrail properties in Connecticut and Rhode Island to another railroad in the region. Makes any employee deprived of employment as a result of such transfer eligible for specified benefits. Amends the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 to enable Conrail to obtain a loan in an amount required for the cost of employee insurance coverage and benefits. Describes procedures for obtaining such loan and for administering such medical and life insurance. Amends the Railway Labor Act to establish procedures for handling disputes between a publicly funded and operated carrier providing rail commuter service and its employees. Sets forth the process by which appeals of this Act may be made.
Bill· SS. 1160 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 11 May 1981
Transit Assistance Act of 1981 - Amends the Urban Mass Transportation Act of 1964 to prohibit a discretionary capital grant or loan from being made by the Secretary of Transportation unless the applicant has sufficient capability to maintain the facilities and equipment purchased with such grant or loan. Revises the Federal share of such grants and loans. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 1982 through 1986 for the purposes of such Act, including research and development, training, and demonstration projects. Authorizes appropriations, beginning in fiscal year 1983, for administrative costs necessary to carry out the functions of such Act. Authorizes the Secretary to make capital grants to States and local public bodies for repair or replacement of public transportation equipment and facilities damaged by natural disaster or catastrophic occurrence. Sets forth conditions for approval of such grants. Authorizes appropriations for formula grants for fiscal years 1981 through 1984 for: (1) urban mass transit; (2) construction or operating assistance; (3) commuter rail and fixed guideway systems; and, for fiscal years 1982 through 1986, (4) the purchase of buses and related equipment or the construction of bus-related facilities; and (5) areas other than urbanized areas. Authorizes a Governor to transfer part of a specified apportionment made to his or her State to supplement funds apportioned to the State for areas other than urbanized areas. Requires that such amounts so transferred be utilized for construction projects. Directs that, after fiscal year 1983, unobligated or deobligated funds for urban mass transit grants shall be added to the amount available for apportionment for buses, bus-related equipment, and construction of bus-related facilities. Declares that apportionments for fiscal year 1975 shall lapse on September 30, 1977, and apportionments for fiscal year 1976 shall lapse on September 30, 1978. Prohibits the Secretary from approving a project for the payment of operating expenses of urban mass transit services after September 30, 1984. Repeals provisions that require that rates charged elderly and handicapped persons for transportation during non-peak hours be no more than one-half of peak hour full fares. Eliminates grants for the establishment and operation of transportation centers at nonprofit institutions of higher learning. Revises the criteria for the award of contracts for acquisition of rolling stock, including buses. Provides a local option for transit programs for the handicapped. Lists the required elements of such programs. Declares that a recipient of funds under such Act may not be required to retrofit: (1) any bus to provide for wheelchair users; or (2) any fixed guideway system to accommodate handicapped persons. Directs the Secretary to report to Congress within three years after the date of enactment of this Act on the service being provided by apportionment recipients to handicapped persons. Prohibits sums apportioned by the Secretary after September 30, 1982, for formula grants for areas other than urbanized areas from being used for operating expenses or costs incurred under purchase of service agreements. Repeals provisions concerning terminal development programs and intercity bus service. Amends the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1978 to prohibit the authorization of appropriations for a specified waterborne transportation demonstration project after September 30, 1981. Amends the National Mass Transportation Assistance Act of 1974 to repeal provisions dealing with the investigation of safety hazards in urban mass transportation systems.
Bill· HRH.R. 3516 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1981
Entitles Federal air traffic controllers to payment of all premium pay regardless of whether such payment exceeds the limitation on premium pay for Federal employees.
Bill· HRH.R. 3515 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1981
Rail Service Improvement Act of 1981 - Title I: General Provisions - Sets forth the findings of Congress with regard to freight and passenger rail service in the Northeast United States. Title II: Transfer of Rail Service Responsibilities - Subtitle A: Transfer of Conrail Commuter Services - Relieves the Consolidated Rail Corporation (Conrail) of any legal obligation to operate commuter service one year after the effective date of this Act. Authorizes commuter authorities, or State, local, or regional transportation authorities to negotiate with Conrail for the transfer of commuter services operated by Conrail. Directs that such transfer agreements be concluded within eight months after the date of enactment of this Act. Requires the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) and Conrail to agree, within ten months after the effective date of this Act, on terms and conditions for the transfer to Amtrak of all Conrail commuter service in the Northeast corridor (Boston-Washington, D.C.), except for services transferred directly to a commuter authority. Specifies procedures to be followed by the Secretary of Transportation if such agreement is not reached. Allows a commuter authority to request that Amtrak transfer to such authority certain commuter service and rail properties. Authorizes either party to appeal to the Secretary if an agreement concerning such transfer is not reached. Exempts such transfers and assumptions of service from the provisions of the Interstate Commerce Act. Requires that Amtrak shall provide such commuter service for a commuter authority on a reimbursable basis only. Authorizes Amtrak to discontinue service if it is not paid within 90 days of the rendering of such service. Authorizes appropriations, to remain available until October 1, 1986, to carry out the provisions of this Act. Subtitle B: Additional Financing of Conrail - Amends the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 to establish the Conrail Financial Review Committee. Directs that investments by the Federal Government in Conrail securities after October 1, 1981, shall be by purchase of preferred stock. Requires that the Committee determine the timing and amount of such purchases. Directs that any request by Conrail for the purchase of such stock shall be filed with the Committee within a specified time period. Lists conditions that must be met by Conrail before the Committee may purchase additional stock. Permits the Committee to cease purchasing such stock if such conditions are not met. Authorizes Conrail to appeal the decision of the Committee to cease stock purchases. Provides for benefits to be paid by employees of Conrail subsidiaries. Directs Conrail to issue annually stock to such employees and personnel in amounts equal to the amount of such benefits provided. Declares that such stock shall be nonvoting stock until January 1, 1984. Requires State and local governments in States that have more than 100 route miles of the Conrail system to provide specified benefits to Conrail. Directs the Committee to allocate such benefits among the States and to notify Governors of the required contribution of such States. Directs the Committee to cease stock purchases in the event of any work stoppage by Conrail employees which substantially impairs the operation of the Conrail rail system. States that all series A preferred stock purchased by the Committee pursuant to this Act shall be held by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget. Authorizes appropriations for the Committee to carry out the purposes of this Act. Subtitle C: Transfer of Freight Service Responsibilities - Directs the Committee, within 180 days after the final purchase of Conrail stock, to determine whether Conrail has become a profitable rail carrier. States that Conrail's freight service responsibilities shall be transferred according to the procedures set forth below if Conrail is not found to be profitable. Directs Conrail, in consultation with the Secretary, to negotiate for the transfer of Conrail freight rail properties and service responsibilities to financially responsible persons, including rail carriers. Directs Conrail, when such acquiring railroads do not assure adequate freight terminal operations in the Northeast corridor, to promote the formation of one or more privately funded terminal companies. Establishes procedures for public comment on and the Attorney General's review of such proposed transfer agreements. Authorizes Conrail and the acquiring railroad, in consultation with the Secretary, to modify such proposed transfer agreements. Sets forth procedures by which such agreements may be approved or disapproved by the Interstate Commerce Commission. Directs Conrail to transmit copies of such agreements to Congress. Exempts from judicial review the implementation of such transfer agreements. Exempts such transfers from the provisions of the Interstate Commerce Act and specified provisions of the Securities Act of 1933. Directs Conrail to promote the inclusion of viable associated branch lines in such transfer negotiations. Authorizes affected States or shippers or any combination thereof to negotiate with Conrail for the transfer of essential associated branch lines discontinued under a transfer agreement to an entity designated by the State or shipper for continued operation free of certain common carrier obligations included in the Interstate Commerce Act. Declares that nothing in this Act shall be construed to limit Conrail's power to dispose of remaining rail properties over which service has been discontinued under this Act. Prohibits the transfer of Conrail rail properties to: (1) railroads in reorganization under the Bankruptcy Act; or (2) any entity that is a successor in interest to such railroad in reorganization. Title III: Protection for Conrail Employees - States that Conrail employees deprived of employment shall be eligible for specified separation allowances. Sets forth criteria for the payment and tax treatment of such allowances. Grants preferential hiring status to employees deprived of employment. Provides that employee rights under this Act shall be equal to rights afforded under the Milwaukee Railroad Restructuring Act and the Rock Island Railroad Transition and Employee Assistance Act. Directs the Railroad Retirement Board to maintain a register of persons separated from employment who have declared their availability for employment in the railroad industry. Sets forth procedures for priority hiring of such persons. Terminates such register five years from the effective date of this Act. Makes certain employees deprived of employment eligible for: (1) moving expense benefits; (2) new career training assistance; and (3) medical insurance coverage. Sets forth criteria for and limitations on receiving such benefits. Authorizes treatment of certain unemployed Conrail employees who had been transferred to Amtrak for commuter service responsibilities as employees deprived of employment eligible for benefits under this Act. Grants Conrail the right to assign, reassign, and consolidate work formerly performed on the rail properties acquired pursuant to this Act from a railroad in reorganization to any location or position on its system if it does not remove such work from a collective bargaining agreement. Limits such authority to the period during which benefits are provided under this Act. Requires that a single, new collective-bargaining agreement be negotiated systemwide between Conrail and representatives of the employees of a railroad in reorganization. Directs Conrail, Amtrak, or an acquiring carrier to process and pay employee and personal injury claims. Directs the Secretary to transfer to the Board, and authorizes the Board to allocate to Conrail and Amtrak, funds appropriated to carry out this Act. Declares that the employee protection provisions contained in this Act shall be the exclusive protections for employees adversely affected by transfer agreements authorized by this Act and shall supercede, on October 1, 1981, any other employee protection provisions of Federal or State law. States that employees who accept assistance under this Act shall waive any employee protection otherwise available. Authorizes appropriations for the purposes of this Act to remain available until expended. Limits, to a specified sum, the total liability of the United States and Conrail under this Act. Title IV: Terms of Labor Assumption - Subtitle A: Passenger Employees - Sets forth procedures for the transfer of passenger service employees to Amtrak from Conrail. Relieves Conrail, after such transfer, of any responsibility to provide personnel for the operation of Amtrak intercity passenger trains in the Northeast corridor operating over properties owned or leased by Amtrak. Directs Amtrak or any commuter authority assuming commuter service responsibilities under this Act to succeed to the rights and responsibilities of Conrail under a contract, schedule, or agreement in effect between Conrail and its employees transferred under this Act. Permits Amtrak, commuter authorities, or employee representatives to serve notice for the renegotiation of such contract, schedule, or agreement. Requires that disputes not settled through conferences between Amtrak and employee representatives shall be subject to binding arbitration. Sets forth standards and procedures to be followed when Conrail or Amtrak transfer commuter service responsibilities to a commuter authority. Deems such a commuter authority to be a rail carrier subject to specified Federal laws governing the rights of employees in the railroad industry. Subtitle B: Freight Employees - Directs acquiring railroads and employee representatives to enter into agreements to facilitate the orderly transfer of employees on terms fair to Conrail employees and employees of acquiring railroads. Allows acquiring railroads and employee representatives to: (1) enter into agreements covering two or more acquiring railroads; and (2) modify the terms of an agreement following a particular transfer date through the collective bargaining process of the Railway Labor Act. Directs acquiring railroads to determine the type and number of employees necessary to provide service over line segments transferred under this Act and to notify employee representatives of same. Sets forth procedures for filling positions on such line segments with eligible Conrail employees. Makes an employee accepting employment with an acquiring railroad subject to the coverage of all contracts, schedules, and agreements negotiated under the Railway Labor Act and in effect between such railroads and its employees. Allows an acquiring railroad not to take over or assume any contract, schedule, or agreement in effect between Conrail and its employees. Describes seniority rights of Conrail employees who accept employment with acquiring railroads. Sets forth labor protection obligations of acquiring railroads and procedures for the arbitration of disputes. Title V: Transfer of the Nonlitigation Functions of the United States Railway Association - Amends the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 and the Department of Transportation Act to transfer to the Secretary the nonlitigation functions of the United States Railway Association and all property, authorizations, and unobligated funds that support the conduct of such functions. Authorizes the Secretary to appoint such officers and employees as are necessary to carry out such functions. Title VI: Miscellaneous Provisions - Lists the civil actions over which the special court established under the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 shall have exclusive jurisdiction. Declares that the judgments of such court shall be reviewable only by the Supreme Court. Amends the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 to reserve a specified amount of authorized appropriations for rehabilitation and improvement assistance for facilities transferred from Conrail. Exempts from Federal, State, and local taxes and fees (except Federal income taxes) all transfers or conveyances of any interest in rail property under this Act. Declares that certain laws and regulations, including antitrust laws and the Administrative Procedure Act, are inapplicable to actions taken under this Act. Directs Conrail, within 60 days of the effective date of this Act, to notify shippers of the provisions and likely impact of this Act. Directs the clerk of the special court to convey to the Secretary, within ten days after the effective date of this Act, certain stock on deposit with such court pursuant to the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973. Provides that the Committee shall transfer its stock to Conrail after it has determined that Conrail is a profitable rail carrier. Prohibits any distribution of Conrail assets in regard to any claims of the United States until all other claims against Conrail have been satisfied. Amends the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 to, authorize Conrail to file with the Interstate Commerce Commission a notice of Insufficient Revenues or an application for a certificate of abandonment for any Conrail line. Directs the Commission to approve such applications unless other financial assistance is offered to the rail line in question. Permits Conrail to obtain a loan in an amount required for the cost of employee insurance coverage and benefits. Describes procedures for obtaining such loan and for administering such medical and life insurance. Amends the Railway Labor Act to establish procedures for handling disputes between a publicly funded and operated carrier providing rail commuter service and its employees. Directs the Commission, within 30 days after the effective date of this Act, to determine, on an industrywide basis, the average compensation for trackage rights for the operation of rail freight service. Prohibits the amount paid by any rail carrier for trackage rights for the operation of such service on the Northeast corridor from exceeding such industrywide average compensation.
Law· HRH.R. 3420 (97th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1981
Pipeline Safety Authorization Act of 1981 - Amends the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1968 and the Hazardous Liquid Pipeline Safety Act of 1979 to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 1982. Revises the frequency of meetings held by the Secretary of Transportation and the Technical Pipeline Safety Standards Committee. Extends the time a person adversely affected by regulations promulgated under such Act has to file a petition for judicial review.
Bill· HRH.R. 3438 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1981
Establishes a Pilotage Regulatory Advisory Committee to: (1) review existing and proposed rules concerning the qualification standards or licensing requirements for pilots navigating vessels in United States waters; (2) consult with, advise, and make recommendations to the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating with respect to such standards or requirements; and (3) submit to the Secretary any proposed amendments to, or any recommendations for the repeal of, such rules which the committee determines are necessary. Directs the Secretary not to take any significant action with regard to the rules or administrative policy governing the licensing of such pilots without first consulting the Committee. Sets forth provisions concerning Committee membership and administrative support services. Exempts the Committee from the Federal Advisory Committee Act. Terminates the Committee on the date: (1) the Secretary receives notice that the Committee has determined it is unnecessary to amend or repeal any rules or proposed rules; or (2) a final rule, or an amendment to a rule, incorporating any proposed amendment or recommendation of the Committee takes effect, whichever occurs first.
Bill· HRH.R. 3444 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1981
Maritime Appropriation Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1982 and 1983 - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for certain Department of Commerce maritime programs including: (1) operating-differential subsidy payments; (2) research and development; (3) reserve fleet expenses; (4) maritime education; and (5) operations and training. Authorizes appropriations of such sums as may be necessary for fiscal year 1983 to carry out certain activities of the Maritime Administration. Authorizes supplemental appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 as may be necessary for increases in salary, retirement, or other employee benefits. Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1936, to allow a ship operator to elect to suspend its operating-differential subsidy contract (except those pertaining to the domestic intercoastal or coastwise service) under certain conditions.
Bill· HRH.R. 3448 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1981
Rail Service Improvement Act of 1981 - Title I: General Provisions - Sets forth the findings of Congress with regard to freight and passenger rail service in the Northeast United States. Title II: Transfer of Rail Service Responsibilities - Subtitle A: Transfer of Conrail Commuter Services - Relieves the Consolidated Rail Corporation (Conrail) of any legal obligation to operate commuter service one year after the effective date of this Act. Authorizes commuter authorities, or State, local, or regional transportation authorities to negotiate with Conrail for the transfer of commuter services operated by Conrail. Directs that such transfer agreements be concluded within eight months after the date of enactment of this Act. Requires the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) and Conrail to agree, within ten months after the effective date of this Act, on terms and conditions for the transfer to Amtrak of all Conrail commuter service in the Northeast corridor (Boston-Washington, D.C.), except for services transferred directly to a commuter authority. Specifies procedures to be followed by the Secretary of Transportation if such agreement is not reached. Allows a commuter authority to request that Amtrak transfer to such authority certain commuter service and rail properties. Authorizes either party to appeal to the Secretary if an agreement concerning such transfer is not reached. Exempts such transfers and assumptions of service from the provisions of the Interstate Commerce Act. Requires that Amtrak shall provide such commuter service for a commuter authority on a reimbursable basis only. Authorizes Amtrak to discontinue service if it is not paid within 90 days of the rendering of such service. Authorizes appropriations, to remain available until October 1, 1986, to carry out the provisions of this Act. Subtitle B: Transfer of Freight Service Responsibilities - Directs the Secretary, in consultation with Conrail, to negotiate for the transfer of Conrail freight rail properties and service responsibilities to financially responsible persons, including rail carriers. Directs the Secretary, when such acquiring railroads do not assure adequate freight terminal operations in the Northeast corridor, to promote the formation of one or more privately funded terminal companies. Establishes procedures for public comment on and the Attorney General's review of such transfer agreements. Exempts from judicial review the final approval by the Secretary of such transfer agreements. Permits the Secretary to discontinue rail service over certain rail properties associated with the properties specified in such transfer agreement. Directs the Secretary to transmit copies of approved agreements to Congress. Exempts such transfers from the provisions of the Interstate Commerce Act and specified provisions of the Securities Act of 1933. Directs the Secretary to promote the inclusion of viable associated branch lines in such transfer negotiations. Authorizes affected States or shippers or any combination thereof to negotiate with the Secretary for the transfer of essential associated branch lines discontinued under a transfer agreement to an entity designated by the State or shipper for continue operation free of certain common carrier obligations included in the Interstate Commerce Act. Title III: Protection for Conrail Employees - States that Conrail employees deprived of employment shall be eligible for specified separation allowances. Sets forth criteria for the payment and tax treatment of such allowances. Grants preferential hiring status to employees deprived of employment. Provides that employee rights under this Act shall be equal to rights afforded under the Milwaukee Railroad Restructuring Act and the Rock Island Railroad Transition and Employee Assistance Act. Directs the Railroad Retirement Board to maintain a register of persons separated from employment who have declared their availability for employment in the railroad industry. Sets forth procedures for priority hiring of such persons. Terminates such register five years from the effective date of this Act. Makes certain employees deprived of employment eligible for: (1) moving expense benefits; (2) new career training assistance; and (3) medical insurance coverage. Sets forth criteria for and limitations on receiving such benefits. Authorizes treatment of certain unemployed Conrail employees who had been transferred to Amtrak for commuter service responsibilities as employees deprived of employment eligible for benefits under this Act. Directs the Secretary to transfer to the Board, and authorizes the Board to allocate to Conrail and Amtrak, funds appropriated to carry out this Act. Declares that the employee protection provisions contained in this Act shall be the exclusive protections for employees adversely affected by transfer agreements authorized by this Act and shall supercede, on October 1, 1981, any other employee protection provisions of Federal or State law. States that employees who accept assistance under this Act shall waive any employee protection otherwise available. Authorizes appropriations for the purposes of this Act to remain available until expended. Limits, to a specified sum, the total liability of the United States and Conrail under this Act. Title IV: Terms of Labor Assumption - Subtitle A: Passenger Employees - Sets forth procedures for the transfer of passenger service employees to Amtrak from Conrail. Relieves Conrail, after such transfer, of any responsibility to provide personnel for the operation of Amtrak intercity passenger trains in the Northeast corridor operating over properties owned or leased by Amtrak. Directs Amtrak or any commuter authority assuming commuter service responsibilities under this Act to succeed to the rights and responsibilities of Conrail under a contract, schedule, or agreement in effect between Conrail and its employees transferred under this Act. Permits Amtrak, commuter authorities, or employee representatives to serve notice for the renegotiation of such contract, schedule, or agreement. Requires that disputes not settled through conferences between Amtrak and employee representatives shall be subject to binding arbitration. Sets forth standards and procedures to be followed when Conrail or Amtrak transfer commuter service responsibilities to a commuter authority. Deems such a commuter authority to be a rail carrier subject to specified Federal laws governing the rights of employees in the railroad industry. Subtitle B: Freight Employees - Directs acquiring railroads and employee representatives to enter into agreements to facilitate the orderly transfer of employees on terms fair to Conrail employees and employees of acquiring railroads. Allows acquiring railroads and employee representatives to: (1) enter into agreements covering two or more acquiring railroads; and (2) modify the terms of an agreement following a particular transfer date through the collective bargaining process of the Railway Labor Act. Directs acquiring railroads to determine the type and number of employees necessary to provide service over line segments transferred under this Act and to notify employee representatives of same. Sets forth procedures for filling positions on such line segments with eligible Conrail employees. Makes an employee accepting employment with an acquiring railroad subject to the coverage of all contracts, schedules, and agreements negotiated under the Railway Labor Act and in effect between such railroads and its employees. Allows an acquiring railroad not to take over or assume any contract, schedule, or agreement in effect between Conrail and its employees. Describes seniority rights of Conrail employees who accept employment with acquiring railroads. Sets forth labor protection obligations of acquiring railroads and procedures for the arbitration of disputes. Title V: Transfer of the Nonlitigation Functions of the United States Railway Association - Amends the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 and the Department of Transportation Act to transfer to the Secretary the nonlitigation functions of the United States Railway Association and all property, authorizations, and unobligated funds that support the conduct of such functions. Authorizes the Secretary to appoint such officers and employees as are necessary to carry out such functions. Title VI: Miscellaneous Provisions - Lists the civil actions over which the special court established under the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 shall have exclusive jurisdiction. Declares that the judgments of such court shall be reviewable only by the Supreme Court. Amends the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 to reserve a specified amount of authorized appropriations for rehabilitation and improvement assistance for facilities transferred from Conrail. Exempts from Federal, State, and local taxes and fees (except Federal income tax laws) all transfers or conveyances of any interest in rail property under this Act. Declares that certain laws and regulations, including antitrust laws and the Administrative Procedure Act, are inapplicable to actions taken under this Act. Authorizes Conrail and successor operators of Conrail lines, for two years following the date of enactment of this Act, to cancel any applicable joint rate or division. States that the parties must remain free to negotiate new joint rates or divisions with existing corrections. Directs the clerk of the special court to convey to the Secretary, within ten days after the effective date of this Act, certain stock on deposit with such court pursuant to the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973. Prohibits any distribution of Conrail assets in regard to any claims of the United States until all other claims against Conrail have been satisfied.
Bill· HRH.R. 3435 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1981
Amtrak Improvement Act of 1981 - Amends the Rail Passenger Service Act to delete provisions relating to the ratio of Amtrak revenues to operating expenses. Reduces to 13 the membership of the board of directors of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak). Revises ownership rights for holders of Amtrak stock. Directs Amtrak to report to the Secretary of Transportation every six months in regard to certain operating practices. Prohibits Amtrak (including its corporate officers) from authorizing an expenditure or obligation under any appropriation or fund in excess of the amount available therein. Increases the percentage of operating and capital costs to be paid by a State or agency requesting additional rail passenger service. Repeals the requirement that Amtrak consult with States to be affected by selected fare increases. Requires that Amtrak be reimbursed for the fully allocated cost of commuter rail passenger service provided under an agreement with a State (or local or regional transportation agency). States that the Route and Service Criteria shall not apply to the reduction or discontinuance of certain routes and services. Cancels the Inter-American train to the Mexican border. Revises procedures for the downgrading or disposal of rail passenger service facilities. Requires that revenues cover at least 50 percent of Amtrak's total costs, excluding capital costs, beginning in fiscal year 1982. Directs Amtrak to: (1) minimize the amount of Federal grants required to support rail passenger services; and (2) discontinue routes and services as necessary to comply with such Act. Deauthorizes specified appropriations for: (1) the purchase of a self-propelled single car capable of carrying 50 or 60 passengers; (2) operating and capital expenses of rail passenger service for fiscal year 1982; (3) labor protection payments for fiscal year 1982; and (4) payment of the principal of obligations for fiscal year 1982. Authorizes appropriations for specified Amtrak expenses for fiscal years 1982 through 1986.
Resolution· HCONRESH.Con.Res. 125 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 May 1981
Directs the appropriate Congressional committee to conduct a six month investigation of the problems associated with the management, labor, and facilities of the Consolidated Rail Corporation (Conrail). Prohibits Congress, for a specified time from enacting legislation that would lead to the dismemberment of Conrail.
Bill· SS. 1100 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1981
Rail Service Improvement Act of 1981 - Title I: General Provisions - Sets forth the findings of Congress with regard to freight and passenger rail service in the Northeast United States. Title II: Transfer of Rail Service Responsibilities - Subtitle A: Transfer of Conrail Commuter Services - Relieves the Consolidated Rail Corporation (Conrail) of any legal obligation to operate commuter service one year after the effective date of this Act. Authorizes commuter authorities, or State, local, or regional transportation authorities to negotiate with Conrail for the transfer of commuter services operated by Conrail. Directs that such transfer agreements be concluded within eight months after the date of enactment of this Act. Requires the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) and Conrail to agree, within ten months after the effective date of this Act, on terms and conditions for the transfer to Amtrak of all Conrail commuter service in the Northeast corridor (Boston-Washington, D.C.), except for services transferred directly to a commuter authority. Specifies procedures to be followed by the Secretary of Transportation if such agreement is not reached. Allows a commuter authority to request that Amtrak transfer to such authority certain commuter service and rail properties. Authorizes either party to appeal to the Secretary if an agreement concerning such transfer is not reached. Exempts such transfers and assumptions of service from the provisions of the Interstate Commerce Act. Requires that Amtrak shall provide such commuter service for a commuter authority on a reimbursable basis only. Authorizes Amtrak to discontinue service if it is not paid within 90 days of the rendering of such service. Authorizes appropriations, to remain available until October 1, 1986, to carry out the provisions of this Act. Subtitle B: Transfer of Freight Service Responsibilities - Directs the Secretary, in consultation with Conrail, to negotiate for the transfer of Conrail freight rail properties and service responsibilities to financially responsible persons, including rail carriers. Directs the Secretary, when such acquiring railroads do not assure adequate freight terminal operations in the Northeast corridor, to promote the formation of one or more privately funded terminal companies. Establishes procedures for public comment on and the Attorney General's review of such transfer agreements. Exempts from judicial review the final approval by the Secretary of such transfer agreements. Permits the Secretary to discontinue rail service over certain rail properties associated with the properties specified in such transfer agreement. Directs the Secretary to transmit copies of approved agreements to Congress. Exempts such transfers from the provisions of the Interstate Commerce Act and specified provisions of the Securities Act of 1933. Directs the Secretary to promote the inclusion of viable associated branch lines in such transfer negotiations. Authorizes affected States or shippers or any combination thereof to negotiate with the Secretary for the transfer of essential associated branch lines discontinued under a transfer agreement to an entity designated by the State or shipper for continued operation free of certain common carrier obligations included in the Interstate Commerce Act. Title III: Protection for Conrail Employees - States that Conrail employees deprived of employment shall be eligible for specified separation allowances. Sets forth criteria for the payment and tax treatment of such allowances. Grants preferential hiring status to employees deprived of employment. Provides that employee rights under this Act shall be equal to rights afforded under the Milwaukee Railroad Restructuring Act and the Rock Island Railroad Transition and Employee Assistance Act. Directs the Railroad Retirement Board to maintain a register of persons separated from employment who have declared their availability for employment in the railroad industry. Sets forth procedures for priority hiring of such persons. Terminates such register five years from the effective date of this Act. Makes certain employees deprived of employment eligible for: (1) moving expense benefits; (2) new career training assistance; and (3) medical insurance coverage. Sets forth criteria for and limitations on receiving such benefits. Authorizes treatment of certain unemployed Conrail employees who had been transferred to Amtrak for commuter service responsibilities as employees deprived of employment eligible for benefits under this Act. Directs the Secretary to transfer to the Board, and authorizes the Board to allocate to Conrail and Amtrak, funds appropriated to carry out this Act. Declares that the employee protection provisions contained in this Act shall be the exclusive protections for employees adversely affected by transfer agreements authorized by this Act and shall supercede, on October 1, 1981, any other employee protection provisions of Federal or State law. States that employees who accept assistance under this Act shall waive any employee protection otherwise available. Authorizes appropriations for the purposes of this Act to remain available until expended. Limits, to a specified sum, the total liability of the United States and Conrail under this Act. Title IV: Terms of Labor Assumption - Subtitle A: Passenger Employees - Sets forth procedures for the transfer of passenger service employees to Amtrak from Conrail. Relieves Conrail, after such transfer, of any responsibility to provide personnel for the operation of Amtrak intercity passenger trains in the Northeast corridor operating over properties owned or leased by Amtrak. Directs Amtrak or any commuter authority assuming commuter service responsibilities under this Act to succeed to the rights and responsibilities of Conrail under a contract, schedule, or agreement in effect between Conrail and its employees transferred under this Act. Permits Amtrak, commuter authorities, or employee representatives to serve notice for the renegotiation of such contract, schedule, or agreement. Requires that disputes not settled through conferences between Amtrak and employee representatives shall be subject to binding arbitration. Sets forth standards and procedures to be followed when Conrail or Amtrak transfer commuter service responsibilities to a commuter authority. Deems such a commuter authority to be a rail carrier subject to specified Federal laws governing the rights of employees in the railroad industry. Subtitle B: Freight Employees - Directs acquiring railroads and employee representatives to enter into agreements to facilitate the orderly transfer of employees on terms fair to Conrail employees and employees of acquiring railroads. Allows acquiring railroads and employee representatives to: (1) enter into agreements covering two or more acquiring railroads; and (2) modify the terms of an agreement following a particular transfer date through the collective bargaining process of the Railway Labor Act. Directs acquiring railroads to determine the type and number of employees necessary to provide service over line segments transferred under this Act and to notify employee representatives of same. Sets forth procedures for filling positions on such line segments with eligible Conrail employees. Makes an employee accepting employment with an acquiring railroad subject to the coverage of all contracts, schedules, and agreements negotiated under the Railway Labor Act and in effect between such railroads and its employees. Allows an acquiring railroad not to take over or assume any contract, schedule, or agreement in effect between Conrail and its employees. Describes seniority rights of Conrail employees who accept employment with acquiring railroads. Sets forth labor protection obligations of acquiring railroads and procedures for the arbitration of disputes. Title V: Transfer of the Nonlitigation Functions of the United States Railway Association - Amends the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 and the Department of Transportation Act to transfer to the Secretary the nonlitigation functions of the United States Railway Association and all property, authorizations, and unobligated funds that support the conduct of such functions. Authorizes the Secretary to appoint such officers and employees as are necessary to carry out such functions. Title VI: Miscellaneous Provisions - Lists the civil actions over which the special court established under the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 shall have exclusive jurisdiction. Declares that the judgments of such court shall be reviewable only by the Supreme Court. Amends the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 to reserve a specified amount of authorized appropriations for rehabilitation and improvement assistance for facilities transferred from Conrail. Exempts from Federal, State, and local taxes and fees all transfers or conveyances of any interest in rail property under this Act. Declares that certain laws and regulations, including antitrust laws and the Administrative Procedure Act, are inapplicable to actions taken under this Act. Authorizes Conrail and successor operators of Conrail lines, for two years following the date of enactment of this Act, to cancel any applicable joint rate or division. Directs that the parties must remain free to negotiate new joint rates or divisions with existing connections. Directs the clerk of the special court to convey to the Secretary, within ten days after the effective date of this Act, certain stock on deposit with such court pursuant to the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973. Prohibits any distribution of Conrail assets in regard to any claims of the United States until all other claims against Conrail have been satisfied.
Bill· SS. 1094 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1981
Ports Development and Assistance Act of 1981 - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to study and prepare a feasibility report on the enlargement of the navigation improvements at each deep-draft harbor serving international shipping in the United States. Requires each port through the appropriate non-Federal port authority to submit an application to the Secretary for eligibility to participate in the reimbursement plan established by this Act. Sets forth the procedure for the review and approval of such applications by specified Senate and House committees within 90 days after submission, or, if not acted upon by the committees, by the Secretary of the Army. Makes the following ports eligible for such reimbursement: (1) Galveston Harbor, Texas; (2) Corpus Christi Harbor, Texas; (3) Brazos Island Harbor, Texas; (4) Norfolk Harbor and Channels, Virginia; (5) Brunswick Island Harbor, Georgia; and (6) Houston Ship Channel, Texas. Directs the Chief of Engineers, upon the enactment of a project authorization for port or channel improvements, to reimburse the local interests (non-Federal port authority), in accordance with this Act, for 75 percent of the funds expended by such interests to construct such portions of the project as are included in the approval project. Makes the authorization to reimburse local interests contained in this Act subject to appropriation, and shall expire three years from the issuance of appropriate Federal permits, unless local interests begin construction of any portion of the project within such three-year period.
Bill· SS. 1099 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1981
Amends the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1968 and the Hazardous Liquid Pipeline Safety Act of 1979 to authorize appropriations for fiscal years 1982 and 1983.
Bill· HRH.R. 3403 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1981
Hazardous Materials Transportation Act Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act to direct the Secretary of Transportation to enter into cooperative agreements with States, local or regional government agencies, or private, nonprofit entities for the establishment of regional training centers for training State and local personnel who: (1) respond to hazardous materials transportation accidents; and (2) enforce State and local hazardous materials transportation requirements. Sets forth information to be supplied by a State, government agency, or private nonprofit entity on its application to enter into such an agreement. Grants the Secretary discretionary power to approve or deny such applications. Specifies criteria to be considered by the Secretary in making such decision. Requires that such approval or denial be granted within 60 days of the date of the application. Limits the duration of such agreements to three years. Directs that the cost of constructing any facilities for use as a training center shall be borne by the party to the agreement with the Secretary. Permits training of private industry personnel on a reimbursable basis. Allows the Secretary to enter into a contract with a private entity for use of a supplemental reporting system and data center operated and maintained by such entity. Authorizes appropriations, with specified limitations, for fiscal years 1982 and 1983 for the purposes of this Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 3404 (97th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 4 May 1981
Independent Safety Board Act Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Independent Safety Board Act of 1974 to authorize appropriations for the purposes of such Act for fiscal years 1981, 1982, and 1983. States that such sums shall remain available until expended. States that certain investigations conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board shall have priority over all other investigations conducted by Federal agencies. Includes aviation incidents under requirements binding on persons reporting such incidents subject to the Board's investigatory jurisdiction. States that any properly credentialed employee of the Board, in investigating a transportation accident, may examine and test any materials determined to be required for the purpose of the investigation. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to report annually to Congress with regard to transportation safety recommendations made by the Board during the preceding year.
Bill· HRH.R. 3372 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 1981
Authorizes the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, to construct a navigation project on the Sacramento River Deep Water Ship Channel, California, at an estimated Federal cost of $66,000,000. States that there shall be no requirement for a State share and that the non-Federal recreation interest shall be credited with the replacement value of existing recreation facilities.
Bill· HRH.R. 3375 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 1981
National Automotive Research Act of 1981 - Amends the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 to require the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to plan, direct, and conduct automotive research and technology development activities, utilizing to the extent possible the capabilities of other Government laboratories, private industry, and institutions of higher learning. Gives contract or grant priorities to American industrial concerns with production activities in the United States. Requires NASA to establish and implement a program to solicit and evaluate ideas from inventors and to stimulate the further development of specified ideas. Transfers to NASA within two years of enactment all automotive research and technology development activities currently being conducted by other Federal departments and agencies and as many of the positions, personnel, property, and funds of such departments and agencies as the Administrator of NASA shall recommend. Authorizes and directs the Administrator to prepare a comprehensive management program for the conduct of research and technology development activities under this Act, including a progress report on the transfer to NASA of the automotive research and development activities of other departments and agencies. Requires the Administrator to transmit such program to the appropriate committees of Congress. Requires the Administrator to detail modifications in such program in the annual budget submission. Authorizes specified amounts through fiscal year 1982 and amounts to be set in annual authorization Acts for subsequent fiscal years to carry out this Act.
Bill· SS. 1024 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1981
Federal- Aid Highway Improvement Act of 1981 - Amends the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 to increase the authorization of appropriations for the Interstate Highway System for fiscal years 1983 through 1990. Limits the obligation of such funds to specified objectives. Directs the Secretary of Transportation, in making the revised estimate of the cost of completing the designated Interstate System for the January, 1983 report to Congress, to include only those costs eligible under such Act, as amended. Directs the Secretary to use specified apportionment factors in allocating funds for the Interstate System. Authorizes appropriations, for fiscal years 1982 through 1986, out of the Highway Trust Fund, for: (1) the Federal aid primary system in rural and urban areas; (2) forest highways; (3) public lands highways; (4) bridge replacement and rehabilitation; and (5) highway safety improvements. Prohibits a State from receiving less than one-half of one percent of the total apportionment for the Interstate System. Revises apportionments for the highway bridge replacement and rehabilitation program. Amends the Highway Safety Acts of 1973 and 1978 and the Federal-Aid Highway Acts of 1973 and 1978 to repeal the authorization of appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for: (1) highway safety programs; (2) bridge reconstruction and replacement; (3) elimination of hazards; (4) rail highway crossings; and (5) bikeways. Directs that the unobligated balance of contract authority established by the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1978 for the Great River Road and highway safety programs shall lapse September 30, 1981. Makes highway reconstruction eligible for Interstate System apportioned funds. Revises Interstate System resurfacing procedures and the Federal share thereof. Authorizes appropriations for mass transit projects substituted for highway projects for which approval has been withdrawn. Revises provisions concerning such substitution projects. Repeals appropriations for provisions related to the priority primary route program. Revises the Federal-aid urban and the Federal-aid rural highway programs. Replaces the pavement marking demonstration program with a highway safety improvement program. Makes assistance available from such program for: (1) highway safety improvements; (2) railway highway crossing projects; (3) highway-related safety requirements; and (4) implementation of the highway safety improvement program developed by each State pursuant to this Act. Reserves one-half of one percent of such funds for projects on Indian reservations. Directs each State to report to the Secretary on the progress of such highway safety improvement program. Directs the Secretary to report annually to Congress on such progress. Sets forth a formula for the apportionment of funds for the highway bridge replacement and rehabilitation program. Creates a Federal lands highway program consisting of forest highways, park roads, parkways, Indian reservation roads, and public lands highways. Directs the Secretary to expend sums necessary to carry out specified carpool and vanpool projects, including parking facilities. Directs that emergency financial assistance necessitated by natural disasters or catastrophic failures shall be authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund. Increases the authorization for such emergency assistance. Limits, to a specified sum, the amount of such assistance to any State. Increases the Federal share of such repairs or reconstruction. Revises apportionments for access highways to public recreation areas on certain lakes. Repeals the territorial highway program. Revises the scope and Federal share of the bicycle transportation program. Amends the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1973 to allow limited truck traffic on the Highland Scenic Highway. States that such commercial use by trucks may be limited and controlled by permit. Allows the Secretary to discharge any of his responsibilities under such Act relative to the physical construction phase of Interstate resurfacing, restoration, rehabilitation, and reconstruction projects using certain certification procedures. Directs the Secretary to establish procedures for the inspection of construction and repair projects (currently, directs the Secretary to make a final inspection). Removes the limit on appropriations for defense access roads. Revises the Secretary's authority with regard to a State's failure to maintain projects under its jurisdiction. Limits funds for research and planning to specified amounts. Specifies the Federal share of such funding pursuant to certain criteria. Transfers to the Secretary the functions, powers, and duties of the Appalachian Regional Commission related to the Appalachian Development Highways System. Amends the Appalachian Regional Development Act of 1965 to authorize appropriations for such Highway system for fiscal years 1982 through 1986. Increases the Federal share for such Highway system. Prohibits employment discrimination in such projects on account of sex. Authorizes the Secretary, in cooperation with other departments and State agencies, to develop and administer training and assistance programs in connection with any program under this Act in order to enable minority businesses to compete on an equal basis for contracts. Directs the Secretary to deduct, from apportionments made by this Act, specified sums for the administration of such programs. Directs the Secretary to enter into agreements with the Secretaries of Defense and of the Interior, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, and other agency heads as appropriate to minimize duplication, paperwork, and delays in the development and approval of projects under this Act. Sets forth criteria for such agreements. Revises the Federal share available for projects under the Federal-aid rural program and the Federal-aid urban program. Limits obligations for Federal-Aid highways and sets forth an allocation formula for such funds.
Bill· SS. 1047 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 29 April 1981
Airport and Airway Revenue Act of 1981 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to reinstate, and revise the rates of, the taxes on fuel used in noncommercial aviation. Reduces the airline ticket tax for individual travel from eight to six and one half percent. Reinstates the tax on the use of international travel facilities and the tax on transportation of property by air. Amends the Airport and Airway Revenue Act of 1970 to continue the transfer of taxes to the Airport and Airway Trust Fund beyond June 30, 1981. Extends, beyond June 30, 1981, the availability of Trust Fund assets for specified expenditures.
Bill· SS. 1017 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 28 April 1981
Authorizes appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for certain Department of Commerce maritime programs including: (1) operating-differential subsidy payments; (2) research and development; (3) reserve fleet expenses; (4) maritime education; and (5) operations and training. Authorizes supplemental appropriations for fiscal year 1982 for employee benefits. Amends the Merchant Marine Act, 1936, to include as "eligible vessels" certain vessels that were reconstructed or reconditioned outside of the United States.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 115 (97th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1981
Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Senate and the American people: (1) regret the loss of Japanese life and property in connection with the collision of a U.S. submarine and a Japanese freighter; (2) sympathize with the families of those who died; and (3) assure Japan that the collision will be investigated and explained.
Resolution· SRESS.Res. 116 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1981
Declares that the Senate urges: (1) the Civil Aeronautics Board and other Federal agencies to refrain from any extraordinary action in regard to the proposed merger between Texas International Airlines and Continental Airlines; and (2) the Board to proceed with consideration of such merger under its regular procedures.
Bill· HRH.R. 3244 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1981
Amends the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act of 1975 to prohibit the Secretary of Transportation from permitting the transportation of any radioactive material through or into an area with a population density greater than 12,000 persons per square mile, except where such material is to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment or during a national emergency.
Bill· HRH.R. 3243 (97th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1981
Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation, acting through the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration, to make grants to hospitals near air carrier airports for acquisition of medical equipment and supplies to treat aircraft accident burn victims.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 235 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 27 April 1981
Directs that specified regulations issued by the Secretary of Transportation relating to highway routing of radioactive materials shall have no effect.
Law· SS. 1000 (97th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 23 April 1981
Independent Safety Board Act Amendments of 1981 - Amends the Independent Safety Board Act of 1974 to authorize appropriations for the purposes of such Act for fiscal years 1981, 1982, and 1983. States that such sums shall remain available until expended. States that certain investigations conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board shall have priority over all other investigations conducted by Federal regulatory agencies. Includes aviation incidents under requirements binding on persons reporting such incidents subject to the Board's investigatory jurisdiction. Specifies that any properly credentialed employee of the Board, in investigating a transportation accident, may examine and test any materials determined to be required for the purpose of the investigation.
Law· HRH.R. 3210 (97th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1981
Amends the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1978 to increase the authorization of appropriations for: (1) the Federal-aid primary system of highways; (2) priority primary routes; (3) Interstate System resurfacing; and (4) bridge reconstruction and replacement. Directs the Secretary of Transportation to make apportionments for fiscal year 1983 for expenditures on the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways using specified apportionment factors. Limits, to a specified sum, the total obligations for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs for fiscal year 1982. Makes certain exceptions to such limitation. Directs the Secretary to distribute such sum according to a specified ratio. Prohibits, for the period October 1 through December 31, 1981: (1) a State from obligating more than 35 percent of its share of such sum; and (2) the total of all State obligations from exceeding 25 percent of the total amount distributed to all States. Sets forth provisions with regard to State authority over such obligations. Prohibits the Secretary from distributing amounts authorized for administrative expenses and forest highways. Limits, to a specified sum, the total of all obligations for highway safety programs and school bus driver training. Adjusts the apportionment ratio for funds for resurfacing, restoring, and rehabilitating the Interstate System.
Bill· HRH.R. 3227 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1981
Increases from 80 to 90 percent the Federal share payable for highway bridge replacement and rehabilitation projects.
Bill· HRH.R. 3237 (97th)open
United States · United States Congress · 10 April 1981
Motor Vehicle Safety Amendments Act of 1981 - Amends the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 to direct the Secretary of Transportation to amend Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 208 (passive occupant restraint) to require manufacturers of more than 1,600,000 passenger cars which sold more than 200,000 cars in the United States in model year 1979 to: (1) install for model year 1983 a passive restraint system in each passenger car having a wheelbase not exceeding 114 inches; and (2) install for model year 1984 a passive restraint system in each passenger car. Exempts other manufacturers from any provision in the passive restraint standard which requires installation of a passive restraint system in a passenger car having a wheelbase from 100 to 114 inches, if the Secretary is satisfied that such car will not be produced after December 31, 1982. Directs the Secretary to report to Congress by July 1, 1985, on the effectiveness of such requirements.