bill_id,congress,bill_type,bill_number,title,policy_area,introduced_date,latest_action_date,latest_action_text,origin_chamber,sponsor_name,sponsor_state,sponsor_party,sponsor_bioguide_id,cosponsor_count,summary_text,update_date,url
102-s-3357,102,s,3357,Punitive Damages Reform Act of 1992,Law,1992-10-06,1992-10-06,Read twice and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Danforth, John C. [R-MO]",MO,R,D000030,0,"Punitive Damages Reform Act of 1992 - Prohibits the award of punitive damages for any claim that arises under Federal law or that involves commerce within Federal jurisdiction, with respect to which a punitive fine is sought. Authorizes a court to assess a punitive fine with respect to a claim for which punitive damages were previously available, subject to the following requirements:  (1) the plaintiff must plead that a punitive fine is sought; and (2) a prayer for such a fine shall be stricken prior to trial unless the plaintiff presents to the court, at least 30 days prior to trial, prima facie evidence sufficient to sustain the assessment of such a fine. Prohibits the assessment of a punitive fine unless:  (1) the court finds that punishment and deterrence are warranted by the facts and circumstances of the case; (2) the plaintiff establishes by clear and convincing evidence that, relative to the act or omission on which the claim is based, the defendant (or, under specified circumstances, the defendant's agent) acted with malice; (3) the plaintiff establishes by clear and convincing evidence all other facts necessary to support the assessment of such a fine; and (4) economic damages, noneconomic damages, or a combination thereof, in excess of nominal damages, are awarded with respect to such claim. Requires:  (1) the court to determine the liability of a defendant for a punitive fine unless the question of liability for punitive damages on a claim with respect to which the punitive fine is sought is one that was required to be referred to a jury prior to this Act's enactment, in which case the question shall be decided by a jury; and (2) any such jury to answer a special interrogatory as to whether the plaintiff has shown by clear and convincing evidence that the act or omission of the defendant on which the claim is based was performed with malice rather than being performed through mere negligence or gross negligence. Sets forth factors to be considered in determining the amount of a punitive fine to be assessed.  Directs that the amount of such fine be sufficient to punish the defendant for the defendant's past conduct on which the claim is based and to deter the defendant and others from engaging in similar conduct in the future. Requires that, at the request of any party, a claim governed by this Act that is tried before a jury be conducted in a bifurcated trial (according to specified guidelines), before the same jury in both phases, unless a party demonstrates that the interest of avoiding the additional time and expense of conducting a bifurcated trial significantly outweighs the benefits of fairness to the requesting party in conducting a bifurcated trial. Specifies that:  (1) when such a claim is brought against more than one defendant, a punitive fine shall be assessed against each defendant specifically, and each defendant shall be liable only for the amount of the assessment made against that defendant; and (2) the amounts of such fines assessed against each defendant shall be based on their relative degrees of culpability. Provides that nothing in this Act shall be construed to create any claim for punitive damages or a punitive fine for which punitive damages were not available prior to this Act's enactment.",2025-08-26T15:14:20Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/3357
102-s-3317,102,s,3317,"A bill to amend the State Justice Institute Act of 1984 to carry out research, and develop judicial training curricula, relating to child custody litigation.",Law,1992-10-05,1992-10-05,Read twice and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Hatch, Orrin G. [R-UT]",UT,R,H000338,0,"Amends the State Justice Institute Act of 1984 to authorize the use of Institute funds to conduct up to five projects to:  (1) investigate and carry out research regarding State judicial decisions relating to child custody litigation involving domestic violence; (2) develop training curricula to assist State courts to develop an understanding of, and appropriate responses to, child custody litigation involving domestic violence; and (3) disseminate the results of such investigation and research and the curricula to State courts.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/3317
102-s-3318,102,s,3318,Battered Women's Testimony Act of 1992,Law,1992-10-05,1992-10-05,Read twice and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Hatch, Orrin G. [R-UT]",UT,R,H000338,0,"Battered Women's Testimony Act of 1992 - Directs the State Justice Institute to make  grants to or enter into contracts with a single eligible entity to:  (1) collect on a a nationwide basis and analyze information regarding the admissibility and quality of expert testimony on the experiences of battered women offered either as part of the defense or as part of the prosecution in criminal cases under State law and regarding sources of, and methods of obtaining, funds to pay costs incurred in providing such testimony, particular in cases in which the defendant or the prosecuting witness is an indigent woman; (2) develop training materials to assist battered women, operators of domestic violence shelters, advocates for battered women, and attorneys in using such testimony in appropriate cases and to assist individuals with expertise in the experiences of battered women in developing skills appropriate to providing such testimony; and (3) disseminate such information and training materials and provide related technical assistance to battered women, shelter operators, advocates, attorneys, and individuals providing testimony.  Authorizes appropriations.",2025-08-26T15:15:01Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/3318
102-s-3333,102,s,3333,National Commission on Civil Justice Reform Act of 1992,Law,1992-10-05,1992-10-05,Read twice and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. DeConcini, Dennis [D-AZ]",AZ,D,D000185,0,"National Commission on Civil Justice Reform Act of 1992 - Establishes the National Commission on Civil Justice Reform to:  (1) solicit the views of a wide variety of individuals, businesses, and groups concerned about improving the fairness, effectiveness, and efficiency of the civil justice system in the United States; (2) evaluate the merits of current proposals to reform the system, including medical malpractice and product liability reform, and of emerging dispute resolution options to improve the system, including mediation and arbitration; (3) make legislative proposals for reforming the current system of litigating disputes in the Nation; and (4) prepare and submit to the Congress, the Chief Justice, and the President a report which includes legislative proposals in accordance with this Act. Sets forth provisions regarding membership, compensation, staff, powers, and termination of the Commission. Directs the Commission to submit to the Congress, the Chief Justice, and the President a report containing a detailed statement of the findings and conclusions of the Commission, together with its recommendations for such legislative or administrative action as it considers appropriate. Authorizes appropriations.",2025-08-26T15:15:27Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/3333
102-s-2869,102,s,2869,District of Columbia Judicial Reorganization Act of 1992,Law,1992-06-18,1992-06-18,Read twice and referred to the Committee on Governmental Affairs.,Senate,"Sen. Lieberman, Joseph I. [D-CT]",CT,D,L000304,0,"District of Columbia Judicial Reorganization Act of 1992 - Title I:  Supreme Court of the District of Columbia - Amends the District of Columbia Code to establish the Supreme Court of the District of Columbia (Court), consisting of a chief justice and six associate justices, with jurisdiction over appeals from final decisions of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals that meet specified criteria. Allows the Court, at its discretion, to certify a case or class of cases for review before it has been determined by the D.C. Court of Appeals, but only under limited circumstances described in this Act.  Allows the Court to:  (1) answer questions of law certified to it by the U.S. Supreme Court, a Court of Appeals of the United States, or the highest court of any State, if a question of D.C. law may be determinative of the case pending in the certifying court; and (2) order the certification of a question of law of another State to the highest court of such State. Provides for the temporary assignment of Court judges to and from other D.C.  courts. Directs the chief justice of the Court to annually summon the active judges of the D.C. courts to a Judicial Conference of the District of Columbia for the purpose of advising as to the means of improving the administration of justice within the District of Columbia. Authorizes appropriations to the District of Columbia for the establishment of the Court. Title II:  Judges of the District of Columbia Courts - Makes the District of Columbia Judicial Nomination Commission, rather than the President, responsible for designating the chief justice or chief judge of a D.C. court. Directs the Executive Officer of the District of Columbia courts to study and report to the Joint Committee on Judicial Administration in the District of Columbia (for forwarding with any comments and recommendations to the Congress) on the feasibility of establishing a District of Columbia Night Court as a division of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.",2025-08-26T15:15:23Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/2869
102-s-2870,102,s,2870,Legal Services Reauthorization Act of 1992,Law,1992-06-18,1992-08-10,Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 614.,Senate,"Sen. Rudman, Warren [R-NH]",NH,R,R000497,34,"Legal Services Reauthorization Act of 1992 - Amends the Legal Services Corporation Act (the Act) to:  (1) authorize appropriations for the Legal Services Corporation for FY 1993 through 1997; (2) make Federal criminal laws against theft, fraud, and embezzlement applicable to Corporation funds; (3) make the Federal criminal statute against obstructing a Federal audit applicable with regard to auditors employed or retained by the Corporation; (4) make certain provisions of the False Claims Act applicable to the Corporation, any financial assistance recipient and other grantee or contractor of the Corporation (awardee), subgrantee or subcontractor of any such entity, or employee thereof (thus, giving the Attorney General the authority to bring a civil action against any person employed by or contracting with a recipient, subrecipient, grantee, or contractor who perpetuates a fraud with Corporation funds, but excluding from application to the Corporation and its recipients provisions which permit a private person to initiate a false claims action); and (5) specify that such provisions shall not be construed or interpreted to abrogate the authority of the Inspector General of the Corporation to carry out his or her duties and responsibilities pursuant to the Inspector General Act of 1978. Revises prohibitions on the use of Corporation funds for lobbying purposes to prohibit such use by any awardee:  (1) to pay for publicity or propaganda intended or designed to support or defeat legislation pending before the Congress or State or local legislative bodies, or to influence any decision by a Federal, State, or local agency; (2) to pay for any personal service, advertisement, telegram, telephone communication, letter, printed matter, or other device, intended or designed to influence; any decision by a Federal, State, or local agency, except when legal assistance is provided by an employee of an awardee of the Corporation to an eligible client on a particular matter which directly involves the client's legal rights or responsibilities; any Member of Congress or other Federal, State, or local elected official to favor or oppose any referendum, initiative, constitutional amendment, or similar procedure of the Congress, State legislature, local council, or similar governing body; or any such Member or official to favor or oppose legislation (with exceptions); or (3) for administrative or related costs associated with such prohibited activities. Permits the use of such funds in connection with any communication:  (1) made in response to a Federal, State, or local agency or elected official; (2) to a Federal, State, or local elected official pertaining to the authorization or appropriation of funds or any other measure affecting the authority, functions, or funding of, or pertaining to oversight measures directly affecting, the awardee or the Corporation, if the project director or designee of the awardee has expressly determined that the legislative body involved is considering such authorization, appropriation, or other measure, or is conducting oversight of the awardee or the Corporation.  Bars the Corporation from imposing restrictions or requirements on awardees that are inconsistent with, or not authorized by, provisions of the Act and other applicable law. Requires the Corporation to:  (1) arrange for evaluations to determine whether awardees are providing comprehensive, economical, and effective legal assistance to eligible clients; and (2) conduct monitoring and investigations into allegations that an awardee has violated applicable requirements.  Sets forth provisions concerning investigation procedures. Directs the Board of Directors of the Corporation to provide for the enforcement of requirements with respect to such awardees.  Permits the Corporation to suspend, reduce, or terminate financial assistance (with such termination only after consideration or other remedial measures and only after the employee has been afforded reasonable notice and opportunity for a timely, full, and fair hearing, to be conducted by an independent hearing examiner when requested), or deny an application for refunding (after affording the awardee an opportunity to correct the failure) when: (1) there has been a substantial failure to comply with applicable requirements; or (2) evaluations demonstrate that an awardee has consistently failed to provide economical and effective legal assistance.  Authorizes the Corporation to deny an application for refunding when the Corporation has identified an applicant for financial assistance that is better able to provide comprehensive, economical, and effective legal assistance for the geographic area served by such awardee. Revises provisions concerning notice to awardees prior to the suspension or termination of assistance or the denial of a refunding application.  Prohibits the annual level of assistance from being reduced by more than five percent or $20,000, whichever is less, unless the awardee has been afforded notice and, at the awardee's request, a timely and fair hearing. Sets forth Corporation monitoring requirements.  Directs the Corporation to adopt standards and procedures within one year pursuant to such provision, taking into account:  (1) the responsibility of the Corporation to provide for independent evaluations; (2) that each awardee has the responsibility to manage its day-to-day operations and to assure that its employees comply with all applicable law and deliver high quality legal assistance in an effective and economical manner; (3) that the personal privacy of eligible clients could be adversely affected by the public disclosure of records or documents obtained in connection with monitoring or investigation (and bars the Corporation from requiring disclosure of such records to the extent that they can be expected to contain information directly pertinent and necessary to an audit, or to an investigation of a likely pattern of discrimination, lack of compliance with the law, or poor performance by an awardee which is indicated by other external evidence); (4) the privacy protections of State law and the principle that matters and records that are personal or private and that related to an individual employee should be protected from examination by the Corporation; and (5) the rules of ethics and professional responsibility that are applicable in the jurisdiction where an awardee delivers legal assistance.  Bars the Corporation from requiring disclosure of confidential client and personal records, with exceptions. Requires the Corporation to develop criteria for evaluating the capability and performance of awardees.  Specifies that the Inspector General of the Corporation shall not, in carrying out his or her functions, be subject to any restriction that:  (1) is contained in the standards and procedures adopted by the Corporation under this provision; and (2) limits access by the Corporation to documents or other information. Directs the Corporation to require each grantee, contractor, or person or entity receiving financial assistance to provide for an independent annual financial audit and to submit the report of the audit to the Corporation.  Bars the Corporation from selecting the auditor employed by such entity, but allows the Corporation to direct such an entity to change its audit when necessary to maintain the entity's fiscal integrity.  Permits the Corporation to conduct its own audit or hire an independent auditor when necessary, with the costs to be borne by the Corporation.  (Current law directs the Corporation to conduct, or require each such grantee, contractor, or person or entity to provide for, an annual financial audit.) Places restrictions on the bringing of a class action suit by an awardee with funds provided by the Corporation against the Federal Government or any State or local government.  Requires awardees to adopt policies to attempt to negotiate settlements and to use alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, where appropriate, before filing suit. Prohibits the use of Corporation funds to alter, revise, or reapportion a legislative, judicial, or elective district at any level of government. Places restrictions on the use of Corporation funds for legal assistance for aliens. Revises requirements for governing bodies of grant or contract recipients to require a recipient's governing body to be comprised of (in the majority) attorneys who are appointed by State, county, or local bar associations the memberships of which represent a majority of the attorneys practicing law in the locality in which the recipient is to provide legal assistance.  Sets forth requirements for governing or policy bodies of recipients and other awardees.  Allows the governing body of a bar association to appoint members of the governing or policy bodies of more than one awardee of the Corporation. Makes technical and conforming changes with respect to the professional responsibilities of the Corporation and attorney employees of the Corporation. Specifies that neither the Corporation nor the Comptroller General shall have access to any reports or records protected from disclosure by the laws or rules of ethics or professional responsibility that apply in the jurisdiction where such reports or records are maintained. Requires the Corporation (with specified exceptions) to ensure that attorneys employed full-time in providing legal assistance supported in major part by the Corporation refrain from any: (1) outside practice of law in which the attorneys seek or receive compensation; and (2) uncompensated outside practice of law.  (Current law bars attorneys employed full-time in legal assistance activities supported in  major part by the Corporation from any compensated outside practice, and any uncompensated outside practice except as authorized in guidelines promulgated by the Corporation.) Prohibits the use of Corporation funds for initiating the defense of a person in a proceeding to evict such person from a public housing project if the person has been convicted of the illegal sale or distribution of a controlled substance and the proceeding has been brought by a public housing project agency because such person threatens the health or safety of other tenants or employees of such agency. Prohibits awardees (or employees) from engaging in pre-complaint settlement negotiations, filing a complaint, or pursuing litigation against a defendant unless a written retainer agreement which enumerates the facts on which the claim is based has been signed by the plaintiffs.  Specifies that, unless authorized by a court of competent jurisdiction, no awardee (or employee) may file a complaint or petition in a court until all plaintiffs known to plaintiff's counsel at the time have been specifically identified in the complaint or petition. Requires the Corporation to study, through the use of demonstration projects and other appropriate methods, the feasibility of utilizing a system of competition to improve the delivery of legal assistance and related activities.  Sets forth reporting requirements. Specifies that a general restriction on training activities of the Corporation should not be construed to prohibit training of attorneys or paralegals as necessary to prepare them to advise any eligible client as to the nature of the legislative process, or to inform any such client of his or her rights under any statute, order, or regulation. Repeals a limitation on the use of non-Federal funds received by the Corporation. Directs the Corporation to require each awardee to maintain a system of time and recordkeeping that discloses the types of activities supported by Corporation and non-Corporation funds and allocates appropriate costs, including overhead, to activities funded by non-Corporation funds.  Sets forth additional requirements regarding the specific type of system to be employed. Prohibits the use of alternative corporations to evade the provisions of this Act.  Defines an ""alternative corporation"" as a group which has a single identity of interest with an awardee. Requires any awardee which shares employees with any other entity to specify with particularity the use of any funds by such employees. Directs the Corporation to ensure that all attorneys engaged in legal assistance activities supported by the Corporation refrain, while so engaged, from any political activity (current law) associated with a political party or the campaign of any candidate for public or party office. Requires grants and contracts made for calendar years 1993 through 1997 to be made for at least 12 months, except for any grant to a new program commencing operations after the beginning of the applicable calendar year. Sets forth provisions with respect to the establishment of local priorities and periodic analysis of the legal needs of clients in the area served by each such awardee. Revises the definition of ""staff attorney"" to mean an attorney who: (1) is employed by a recipient organized in whole or in part for the provision of legal assistance to eligible clients under the Act; and (2) receives more than half of his or her annual professional salary from the proceeds of a grant or contract from the Corporation to such recipient.  (Current law specifies an attorney who receives more than half of his annual professional income from a recipient organized solely for the provision of legal assistance to eligible clients.) Directs the Corporation to conduct a study on legal assistance to older Americans.",2025-04-21T12:24:17Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/2870
102-s-2785,102,s,2785,False Claims Technical Amendment Act of 1992,Law,1992-05-21,1992-05-28,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Thurmond, Strom [R-SC]",SC,R,T000254,1,False Claims Technical Amendment Act of 1992 - Amends the False Claims Act to prohibit personal reward suits based on information obtained in the course or scope of government employment.,2025-08-26T15:18:12Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/2785
102-s-2521,102,s,2521,Court of Federal Claims Technical and Procedural Improvements Act of 1992,Law,1992-04-02,1992-04-29,Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice. Hearings held. Hearings printed: S.Hrg. 102-1087.,Senate,"Sen. Heflin, Howell [D-AL]",AL,D,H000445,0,"Court of Federal Claims Technical and Procedural Improvements Act of 1992 - Amends the Federal judicial code to change the name of the U.S. Claims Court to the U.S. Court of Federal Claims (Claims Court). Specifies that:  (1) if a judge of such court is not reappointed, such judge may continue in office until a successor is appointed and takes office; (2) the annuity of a Claims Court judge on senior status after age 65 shall be comparable to that of other senior status Federal trial judges insofar as social security taxes and payments are concerned; and (3) Claims Court judges are judicial officers eligible for coverage under specified annuity and insurance programs. Extends to Claims Court judges the same treatment afforded to other Federal trial judges with respect to earned military retirement pay. Makes technical and conforming amendments regarding the recall of a senior Claims Court judge. Authorizes:  (1) Claims Court judges to hire the same number of law clerks as U.S. district court judges; (2) the Claims Court to hold court throughout the United States, including its territories and possessions (currently, court may only be held in the District of Columbia (DC) and in four locations outside DC); and (3) the chief judge of the Claims Court to issue an order authorizing a judge of such court to conduct proceedings in a foreign country whose laws do not prohibit such proceedings. Directs that the facilities of the Federal courts, as well as other comparable facilities administered by the General Services Administration, be made available for proceedings outside DC. Provides the Claims Court with declaratory judgment jurisdiction. Extends ancillary jurisdiction to a tort claim under the Federal Tort Claims Act when such claim is related to an action otherwise within the court's subject matter jurisdiction. Repeals a provision denying the Claims Court jurisdiction with respect to claims pending in other courts. Makes certification of claims under the Contract Disputes Act of 1978 non-jurisdictional. Makes applicable to the Claims Court provisions pertaining to costs, witness fees, forma pauperis proceedings, and counsel's liability for excessive costs which are currently applicable to other Federal trial courts. Grants the Claims Court specified powers to punish contempt of its authority and to have such assistance in carrying out its orders as is available to other Federal courts.  Specifies that the U.S. marshal for any district in which the Claims Court is sitting shall, when requested by the Chief Judge of such court, attend any session of the court in such district.",2025-08-26T15:16:10Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/2521
102-s-2502,102,s,2502,Attorney Accountability Act of 1992,Law,1992-03-31,1992-04-28,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. DeConcini, Dennis [D-AZ]",AZ,D,D000185,1,"Attorney Accountability Act of 1992 - Amends the Federal judicial code to require the Federal courts to award reasonable attorney fees to a prevailing defendant after the entry of a final judgment in any civil action, except where to do so would be against equity and good conscience.  Authorizes the court, in an action involving multiple parties, to apportion the payment of such fees.  Makes the provisions of this Act inapplicable to class action suits. Provides that in any case in which such fees are awarded and:  (1) the court finds that the attorney for a plaintiff has violated rule 11 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (signing of papers; sanctions), the court shall reimburse the plaintiff for the amount awarded; and (2) the attorney for the plaintiff has a contingency fee agreement with the plaintiff, the court shall order the attorney to pay a portion of the fees awarded to the defendant under this Act equal to the amount of the total fees awarded multiplied by the contingency fee percentage under such agreement. Specifies that such provisions shall preempt any other Federal law relating to attorney fees to the extent such law is inconsistent with this Act.",2025-08-26T15:17:28Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/2502
102-s-2283,102,s,2283,State Justice Institute Reauthorization Act of 1992,Law,1992-02-27,1992-02-27,Read twice and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Heflin, Howell [D-AL]",AL,D,H000445,1,"State Justice Institute Reauthorization Act of 1992 - Amends the State Justice Institute Act of 1984 to:  (1) authorize appropriations through FY 1996 to carry out the activities of the State Justice Institute; and (2) restrict Institute grants and cooperative agreements to State or local governments (currently authorized for Federal, State, or local governments) other than a court.",2025-08-26T15:13:43Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/2283
102-s-2180,102,s,2180,Access to Justice Act of 1992,Law,1992-02-04,1992-03-26,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Grassley, Chuck [R-IA]",IA,R,G000386,11,"Access to Justice Act of 1992 - Amends the Federal judicial code to provide that, in determining whether a matter in controversy exceeds the sum or value of $50,000 for purposes of Federal diversity of citizenship jurisdiction, the amount of damages for pain and suffering or mental anguish, punitive or exemplary damages, and attorney fees or costs shall not be included. Provides that on February 1 of each year the threshold amount for diversity jurisdiction (currently, $50,000) shall be adjusted to the nearest thousand dollars to reflect change in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U). Entitles the prevailing party in a diversity action to attorney fees only to the extent that such party prevails on any position or claim advanced during the action. Specifies that such fees shall be paid by the nonprevailing party up to the amount of such fees of the nonprevailing party or, if the nonprevailing party receives services under a contingent fee agreement, the reasonable value of such services. Requires the counsel of record in any such action, in order to receive attorney fees, to maintain accurate, complete records of hours worked on the matter regardless of the fee arrangement. Authorizes the court to limit fees recovered to the extent that it finds special circumstances that make payment of such fees unjust. Makes provisions of this Act (with respect to attorney fees in diversity cases) inapplicable to actions removed from State court or in which the United States, any State, or any agency, officer, or employee thereof is a party. Amends the Equal Access to Justice Act to bar the award of attorney fees in excess of $75 per hour unless the court determines that an increase in the cost of living, as reflected by the change in the CPI-U (currently, unless the court determines that such an increase, or a special factor, such as the limited availability of qualified attorneys for the proceedings involved) justifies a higher fee.  Sets forth provisions for the calculation of such cost of living adjustment. Amends the Federal judicial code to require a claimant or potential plaintiff or plaintiffs, at least 30 days before filing suit in a civil action brought in a U.S. district court, to transmit written notice to the intended defendant or defendants at an address reasonably calculated to provide actual notice of the specific claims involved, including the amount of actual damages and expenses.  Directs such claimant, at the commencement of the action, to file in such court a certificate of service evidencing compliance with such provision. Provides for a 30-day extension of any applicable statute of limitations that would expire during the period of such notice.  Makes the requirements of this provision inapplicable under specified circumstances, such as in bankruptcy proceedings and where a defendant or assets are subject to flight. Specifies that in the event that the district court finds that such notice requirements have not been met by the claimant, and such defect is asserted by the defendant within 60 days after service of the summons or complaint, the claim shall be dismissed without prejudice and the costs of such action, including attorney fees, shall be imposed upon the claimant.  Permits the claimant, under such circumstances, to refile such claim within 60 days after dismissal regardless of any statutory limitations period if, during the 60 days after dismissal, notice is transmitted as provided by this Act and the original action was timely filed. Authorizes the United States, except as otherwise specifically provided by statute, to enter into an agreement which provides that attorney fees may be awarded against the United States or any other party to the action or proceeding:  (1) in any civil action commenced by the United States; (2) in civil proceedings involving disputes pursuant to the Contract Disputes Act of 1978; or (3) in a case in which the United States and another party have agreed to use outcome-determinative mediation, subject to specified requirements. Sets forth further requirements with respect to the award of attorney fees, including the handling of such awards received by Federal agencies. Directs:  (1) the chief judge of each judicial circuit (other than the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit) to designate one district court to be a pilot Multi-Door Courthouse (MDC); and (2) the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit to designate the U.S. Claims Court to be a pilot MDC.  Terminates such designation and the program after three years. Requires every court which has been designated as an MDC, to establish an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) plan providing for: (1) procedures for limited discovery; (2) confidentiality of proceedings as to possible subsequent pretrial and trial actions; (3) the selection, use, and payment of nonjudicial personnel who may be selected to conduct ADR proceedings as neutrals, mediators, or arbitrators; and (4) standards for determining which cases are appropriate for ADR, considering such factors as whether factual issues predominate over legal issues and whether the case involves complex or novel legal issues requiring judicial action. Requires that each plan:  (1) provide that each assigned judge or magistrate judge conduct a conference with counsel within 120 days after the complaint is filed to review nonbinding, voluntary ADR procedures that may be used in lieu of litigation to resolve the claims in controversy; and (2) authorize the parties, if they agree, to use nonbinding ADR procedures (such as early evaluation by a neutral party, (mediation, minitrials, summary jury trial, and arbitration) in lieu of litigation to resolve the claims in controversy. Authorizes the district courts to:  (1) use the volunteer services of nonjudicial personnel to conduct ADR proceedings as neutrals, mediators, and arbitrators; and (2) establish their compensation, subject to limits established by the Judicial Conference of the United States. Authorizes the Chief Justice of the United States to designate and assign temporarily a district judge of one circuit for service in another circuit, either in a district court or court of appeals, whenever the business of that court so requires (under current law, upon presentation of a certificate of necessity by the chief judge or circuit justice of the circuit wherein the need arises). Makes it the duty of the Director of the Administrative Office of U.S. Courts to secure information and report annually to the Chief Justice, the chief judges of the circuits, the Congress, and the Attorney General on the courts' need for temporary judicial resources to ease overcrowded dockets (including information on delays being encountered in the maintenance of civil suits). Provides that:  (1) a State judicial officer shall not be held liable for any costs, including attorney fees, in any proceeding in vindication of civil rights brought against such officer for an act or omission of such officer while acting in an official capacity (act); and (2) in any civil action for deprivation of rights brought against a judicial officer for such an act, injunctive relief shall not be granted unless a declaratory decree in the action was violated by such officer or declaratory relief was unavailable. Amends the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act to provide that, in actions brought by any adult convicted of a crime and confined in any jail, prison, or other correctional facility, the court shall continue such case for a period not to exceed 180 days in order to require exhaustion of remedies.  (Current law calls for a 90-day extension if the court believes it would be approprate and in the interests of justice.) Requires the Attorney General, upon request of a State or local corrections agency, to provide such agency with technical advice and assistance in establishing plain, speedy, and effective administrative remedies for inmate grievances. Amends the Federal judicial code to authorize the court, with regard to proceedings in forma pauperis, to dismiss the case if satisfied that the action fails to state a claim upon which relief can be granted. Directs the Board of the Federal Judicial Center to study and include in the annual report of the activities of the Center determinations regarding ways in which case and docket management (including ADR) techniques may be applied to improve the cost-effectiveness of litigation and to eliminate unjustified expense and delay. Provides that a court in banc shall consist of all circuit judges in regular service, with exceptions. Repeals a provision authorizing any court of appeals having more than 15 active judges to perform its en banc function by such number of members of its en banc courts as may be prescribed by rule of the court of appeals.",2025-08-26T15:14:34Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/2180
102-s-2054,102,s,2054,A bill to confer jurisdiction on the United States Claims Court with respect to land claims of the Pueblo of Isleta Indian Tribe.,Law,1991-11-26,1992-01-22,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Bingaman, Jeff [D-NM]",NM,D,B000468,1,"Confers jurisdiction upon the U.S. Claims Court to hear and render judgment on land claims by the Pueblo of Isleta Indian Tribe of New Mexico against the United States. Authorizes such Court to award:  (1) interest accrued from the date such lands were acquired by the United States; and (2) cost of suit and reasonable attorney's fees to any prevailing party, other than the United States. Sets forth provisions with respect to:  (1) jurisdictional limitations; (2) exhaustion of administrative remedies (not required); and (3) standards for determining reasonable attorney's fees. Specifies that any award made to other Indian tribes with respect to lands subject to such claims shall not be considered a defense, estoppel, or set-off to such claim or otherwise affect relief stemming from such claim.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/2054
102-s-1979,102,s,1979,Lawsuit Reform Act of 1991,Law,1991-11-15,1992-01-22,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. McConnell, Mitch [R-KY]",KY,R,M000355,1,"Lawsuit Reform Act of 1991 - Sets forth uniform national standards regarding liability in tort actions.  Preempts and supersedes inconsistent Federal and State laws.  Provides for an award of costs and attorney's fees to the prevailing party, with an exception and certain limitations. Provides that all claims which are subject to the provisions of this Act shall be governed by the principles of comparative responsibility, unless persons acting in concert caused the injury or damage. Declares that it shall be a complete defense to any civil action under this Act if: (1) the claimant was intoxicated or under the influence of intoxicating alcohol or any drug; and (2) as a result of such intoxication or influence, the claimant was more than 50 percent responsible for causing the accident which resulted in his harm. Requires the attorneys to advise each party of the existence and availability of alternative dispute resolution options and to file notice with the court certifying that the clients were so advised. Requires that damage awards be reduced by any amount received as workers' compensation benefits where the employer or the insurance carrier does not have a lien against the claimant's recovery in a separate action. Prohibits a non-natural person from bringing a civil action for deprivation of rights, except that an entity whose primary purpose is to protect constitutional rights may bring such action to protect any such right. Limits the awarding of damages against a local government.",2025-08-26T15:14:10Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1979
102-s-1969,102,s,1969,A bill to provide for a 6-month extension of the commission on the Bicentennial of the Constitution.,Law,1991-11-14,1991-11-14,Read twice and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Thurmond, Strom [R-SC]",SC,R,T000254,0,"Amends Federal law to extend from December 31, 1991, through June 30, 1992, the Commission on the Bicentennial of the Constitution.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1969
102-s-1837,102,s,1837,"A bill to repeal a provision of Federal tort claim law relating to contractor liability for injury or loss of property arising out of atomic weapons testing programs, and for other purposes.",Law,1991-10-17,1991-10-23,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Reid, Harry [D-NV]",NV,D,R000146,1,"Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1991 to repeal provisions allowing actions against the United States for liability of Federal contractors for injury, death, or loss of property arising out of atomic weapons testing programs.  Provides that the period beginning on October 19, 1984, and ending on the date of enactment of this Act shall not be taken into account in computing the authorized Federal or State statute-of-limitations period for such actions.  Provides certain other extensions of such actions under applicable Federal law.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1837
102-s-1818,102,s,1818,"A bill to permit certain justices and judges to retire to senior service, at reduced pay, upon attaining the age of seventy.",Law,1991-10-08,1991-10-23,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Hatch, Orrin G. [R-UT]",UT,R,H000338,0,"Permits justices and judges who have completed at least five, but less than ten, years of service, and who meet specified other requirements, to retire in senior status, at reduced pay, upon reaching age 70.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1818
102-s-1705,102,s,1705,"A bill to resolve claims of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Tribe of South Dakota, the Devils Lake Sioux Tribe of North Dakota, and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Council of the Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of Montana arising out of a judgment fund distribution.",Law,1991-09-12,1991-10-23,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Daschle, Thomas A. [D-SD]",SD,D,D000064,0,"Grants the U.S. District Court for Montana jurisdiction to receive, hear, determine, and render judgment on any claim of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Tribe of South Dakota, the Devils Lake Sioux Tribe of North Dakota, and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Sioux Council of the Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of Montana arising out of, or in connection with, the judgment fund distributed to the tribes by Federal law.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1705
102-s-1686,102,s,1686,Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals Reorganization Act of 1991,Law,1991-08-02,1991-08-29,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Gorton, Slade [R-WA]",WA,R,G000333,8,"Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals Reorganization Act of 1991 - Divides the current U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit into the following two circuits:  (1) the Ninth Circuit, composed of the States of Arizona, California, Hawaii, and Nevada and Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, consisting of 19 judges, and holding regular sessions in San Francisco and Los Angeles; and (2) the Twelfth Circuit, composed of the States of Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington, consisting of nine judges, and holding regular sessions in Portland and Seattle.",2025-08-26T15:16:42Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1686
102-s-1569,102,s,1569,Federal Courts Administration Act of 1992,Law,1991-07-26,1992-10-29,Became Public Law No: 102-572.,Senate,"Sen. Heflin, Howell [D-AL]",AL,D,H000445,2,"Federal Courts Administration Act of 1992 - Title I: Implementation of Federal Courts Study Committee Recommendations - Amends the Federal judicial code to authorize the Supreme Court to prescribe rules for appeal of interlocutory decisions to the courts of appeals. Amends:  (1) the Economic Stabilization Act of 1970 to require appeals from orders or judgments entered by a U.S.  district court in cases arising under such Act to be brought in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (Federal Circuit), subject to specified limitations; and (2) the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 to transfer all cases of the Temporary Emergency Court of Appeals to the Federal Circuit. Includes within the jurisdiction of the Federal Circuit specified appeals under:  (1) the Economic Stabilization Act of 1970; (2) the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act of 1973; (3) the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978; and (4) the Energy Policy and Conservation Act. Abolishes the Temporary Emergency Court of Appeals and transfers any pending cases to the Federal Circuit. Amends the Federal criminal code to authorize a magistrate judge to:  (1) revoke, modify, or reinstate (currently, revoke or reinstate) the probation of a defendant that such judge has sentenced; and (2) modify, revoke, or terminate supervised release of any person sentenced to a term of supervised release by a magistrate judge. Permits a district judge to designate a magistrate judge to conduct hearings to modify, revoke, or terminate supervised release, including evidentiary  hearings, and to submit to the judge proposed findings of fact and recommendations for such modification, revocation, or termination by the judge (including, in the case of revocation, a recommended sentence).  Directs the magistrate judge to file his or her proposed findings and recommendations. Amends the Federal judicial code to authorize the Chief Justice of the United States, in the public interest, to designate and assign temporarily any circuit judge to act as circuit judge in another circuit upon request by the chief judge or circuit justice of such circuit.  (Current law makes no mention of the public interest and authorizes such action upon presentation of a certificate of necessity by the chief judge or circuit justice of the circuit where the need arises.) Title II:  Judicial Survivors' Annuities Improvements - Amends the Federal judicial code to authorize judicial officials of the United States (officials) to elect to contribute 2.2 percent of their salary and 3.5 percent of their retirement salary (under current law, five percent of their salary) to the Judicial Survivors' Annuities Fund. Requires an official who is not entitled to receive an immediate retirement salary upon leaving office but who is eligible to receive a deferred retirement salary at a later date to file, within 90 days before leaving office, a written notification of intent to remain within the purview of provisions with respect to the Fund (which shall constitute consent to contribute the 3.5 percent of deferred retirement salary) or be deemed to have revoked the election to participate under such provisions. Provides for the refund of deposits into the Fund for officials who leave office and are ineligible to receive a retirement salary, or who leave office and are entitled to a deferred retirement salary but fail to make an election. Counts as creditable service those years during which an official had deductions withheld from his or her retirement salary. Revises the formula with respect to the computation of the annuity to take into account the number of years during which the official had deductions withheld from his or her retirement salary. Authorizes an official, subject to the terms of a specified decree, court order, or agreement, who ceases to be married after making the election to revoke such election in writing by notifying the Director of the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts (Administrative Office).  Requires such official to also notify any spouse or former spouse of the application for revocation in accordance with such requirements as the Director shall prescribe.  Authorizes the Director to provide for waiver of the notification requirement with respect to a spouse or former spouse if such official established to the Director's satisfaction that the whereabouts of such person cannot be determined. Directs the Comptroller General of the United States, at the end of each three-fiscal year period, to determine whether the contributions by officials during such period accounted for 50 percent of the costs of the Fund and if not, what adjustments in the contribution rates should be made to achieve that 50 percent figure. Sets forth reporting requirements. Provides a credit for prior contributions made to the Fund by officials at the higher rate. Permits any official who elects to participate to make a redeposit to the credit of the Fund in installments, in such amounts and under such conditions as may be determined by the Director.  Specifies that if an official elects to make a redeposit in installments:  (1) the Director shall require that the first installment payment made shall be in an amount no smaller than the last 18 months of salary deductions or deposits previously returned to such official in a lump-sum payment; and (2) the election to participate shall be effective upon payment of the first such installment. Directs the Comptroller General to:  (1) conduct an audit of the judicial survivors annuities program for the three-year period beginning on the date of enactment of this Act; and (2) report to the Congress on the results of such audit, comparing such program to other survivors annuities programs within the Federal Government. Title III:  Judicial Financial Administration - Amends the Federal judicial code to provide for the award of filing fees in actions brought by the United States, in which the United States prevails (regardless of whether the Government paid the fee upon commencing the action). Revises provisions with respect to the disposition of filing fees. Provides that:  (1) of the amounts paid to the clerk of court as a fee or a judgment for costs, $60 shall be deposited into a special fund of the Treasury to offset funds appropriated for the operation and maintenance of U.S. courts; and (2) if the court authorizes a fee or judgment for costs of less than $120, the entire fee, up to $60, shall be deposited into such fund. Title IV:  Jury Matters - Permits prospective jurors in Massachusetts to be selected from the resident list provided for under Massachusetts law, rather than from voter lists. Permits reimbursement of grand jurors' actual reasonable costs of air travel to district court pursuant to a summons, under guidelines set by the Judicial Conference, when travel by other means is not feasible and when certified by the chief judge of the district court in which the grand juror serves. Provides permanent authorization for optional use of a one-step summoning and qualification procedure for jury selection.  (Current law provides for experimental use of such procedure.) Title V:  Miscellaneous - Amends:  (1) the Federal judicial code to permit courts of appeals to pretermit any regular session of court at any place for insufficient business or other good cause without the consent of the Judicial Conference, and to transfer the reporting requirement for fees and expenses under the Equal Access to Justice Act from the Director to the Attorney General; (2) the Financial Institutions Regulatory and Interest Rate Control Act of 1978 to eliminate a duplicative reporting requirement; and (3) the Judicial Improvements Act of 1990 to allow the Federal Judicial Center an additional nine months to submit to the Congress and the Judicial Conference the report on its study of intercircuit conflicts and structural alternatives for the Federal Courts of Appeals. Amends the Federal judicial code to authorize the Director to provide for the sale or disposal of recyclable scrap materials held by any entity within the judicial branch, subject to specified requirements. Specifies that a civil action wherein jurisdiction is founded only on diversity of citizenship may be brought only in specified judicial districts, including one in which the defendants are subject to personal jurisdiction at the time the action is commenced (as under current law) if there is no district in which the action may otherwise be brought. Amends the Civil Justice Reform Act of 1990 to require the Director to transmit to the U.S. district courts a summary of each (currently, each) report on the state of each such court's civil and criminal dockets. Provides for the recovery of costs and fees in the U.S. Court of Veterans Appeals under the Equal Access to Justice Act, subject to specified limitations. Title VI:  Judiciary Personnel Administration, Benefits, and Protections - Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to exempt the Judicial Officers' Retirement Fund, the Court of Federal Claims Judges' Retirement Fund, and payments to the Judiciary Trust Funds from reductions under such Act. Authorizes the Federal Judicial Center to:  (1) cooperate with and assist Federal agencies and other appropriate organizations in providing information and advice to further improvement in the administration of justice in the courts of foreign countries and to acquire information about judicial administration in foreign countries; and (2) fix compensation of secretarial and clerical personnel without regard to General Schedule pay rates. Title VII:  Criminal Administrative Matters - Directs probation and pretrial services officers:  (1) when directed by the court and to the degree required by the regimen of care or treatment ordered by the court as a condition of release, to keep informed as to the conduct and provide supervision of persons conditionally released; and (2) to report any violation of such a condition to the court and Attorney General or his designee. Affords Criminal Justice Act attorneys and experts, and community defender organizations, travel and lodging at Government rates. Title VIII:  State Justice Institute Reauthorization - Amends the State Justice Institute Act of 1984 to authorize appropriations for the State Justice Institute for FY 1993 through 1996. Authorizes the Institute, upon application by an appropriate State or local (currently, Federal, State, or local) agency or institution and if the arrangement to be made by such agency or institution will provide services which could not be provided adequately through nongovernmental arrangements, to award a grant or enter into a cooperative agreement or contract with a unit of State or local (currently, Federal, State, or local) government other than a court.  (Current law also requires the Institute to give priority to specified grants, cooperative agreements, or contracts.) Grants the Institute the authority to enter into contracts with Federal agencies to carry out the purposes of the Act. Title IX:  Court of Federal Claims - Court of Federal Claims Technical and Procedural Improvements Act of 1992 - Amends the Federal judicial code to change the name of the U.S. Claims Court to the U.S. Court of Federal Claims (Claims Court). Extends to Claims Court judges the same treatment afforded to other Federal trial judges with respect to earned military retirement pay. Makes technical and conforming amendments regarding the recall of a senior Claims Court judge. Authorizes:  (1) Claims Court judges to hire the same number of law clerks as U.S. district court judges; (2) the Claims Court to hold court throughout the United States, including its territories and possessions (currently, court may only be held in the District of Columbia (DC) and in four locations outside DC); (3) the chief judge of the Claims Court to issue an order authorizing a judge of such court to conduct proceedings in a foreign country whose laws do not prohibit such proceedings, with exceptions; and (4) the Federal Circuit to permit an appeal from an order of the chief judge of the Claims Court with respect to such proceedings. Amends the Contract Disputes Act of 1978 to require the contractor, for claims more than $50,000, to certify (in addition to current requirements) that the certifier is duly authorized to certify the claim on behalf of the contractor. Provides that:  (1) the contracting officer shall have no obligation to render a final decision on any claim of more than $50,000 that is not certified in accordance with the Act if, within 60 days after receipt of the claim, the contracting officer notifies the contractor in writing of the reasons why any attempted certification was found to be defective; (2) a defect in the certification of a claim shall not deprive a court or an agency board of contract appeals of jurisdiction over such claim; and (3) prior to the entry of a final judgment by a court or a decision by an agency board of contract appeals, the court or agency board shall require a defective certification to be corrected.  Permits the certification required under the Act to be executed by any person duly authorized to bind the contractor with respect to the claim. Grants the Claims Court jurisdiction over disputes concerning termination of a contract, rights in tangible or intangible property, compliance with cost accounting standards, and other nonmonetary disputes on which a decision of the contracting officer has been issued pursuant to the Contract Disputes Act of 1978. Authorizes the award of costs whenever an action is dismissed in the Claims Court for lack of jurisdiction. Makes applicable to the Claims Court provisions pertaining to costs, witness fees, forma pauperis proceedings, and counsel's liability for excessive costs which are currently applicable to other Federal trial courts. Grants the Claims Court specified power to punish contempt of its authority and to have such assistance in carrying out its orders as is available to other Federal courts.  Specifies that the U.S. marshal for any district in which the Claims Court is sitting shall, when requested by the chief judge of such court, attend any session of the court in such district. Title X:  Additional Provisions - Amends the Victims of Crime Act of 1984 to repeal provisions regarding:  (1) the distribution of excess amounts in the Crime Victims Fund; and (2) time limits on deposits into the Fund. Modifies the formula regarding the availability of funds for expenditure and grant program percentages applicable to the Fund. Amends the Federal criminal code to authorize a district court to direct that information not be collected, verified, or reported on individuals charged with Class A misdemeanors. Amends the Federal criminal code to define the term ""international terrorism"" to include activities that:  (1) involve violent acts that are a violation of Federal or State laws, or that would be a criminal violation if committed within the jurisdiction of the United States or of any State; (2) appear to be intended to intimidate or coerce a civilian population, influence the policy of a government by intimidation or coercion, or affect the conduct of a government by assassination or kidnapping; and (3) occur primarily outside U.S. territorial jurisdiction or transcend national boundaries. Authorizes any U.S. national injured in his or her person, property, or business by reason of an act of international terrorism to bring a civil action in U.S. district court and recover treble damages and the cost of the suit, including attorney's fees.  Specifies that a final judgment or decree rendered in favor of the United States in certain classes of criminal proceedings (such as those involving the murder of a foreign official, kidnapping, hostage taking, killing of a U.S. national, or an aircraft piracy-related offense) or in favor of any foreign state in a criminal proceeding to the extent that such judgment or decree may be accorded full faith and credit under U.S. law shall estop the defendant from denying the essential allegations of the criminal offense in a subsequent civil proceeding under this title. Sets forth provisions with respect to jurisdiction and venue for, and limitation of, such civil actions. Title XI:  Effective Date - Makes the provisions of this Act effective January 1, 1993, with exceptions. Specifies that all sums expended pursuant to this Act shall be subject to the availability of appropriations.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1569
102-s-1521,102,s,1521,Pornography Victims' Compensation Act of 1992,Law,1991-07-22,1992-08-12,Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 631.,Senate,"Sen. McConnell, Mitch [R-KY]",KY,R,M000355,15,"Pornography Victims' Compensation Act of 1992 - Authorizes a victim of a sex offense or a guardian, immediate family member, or estate of such a victim to bring a civil action in a U.S. district court or State court against a producer, distributor, exhibitor, renter, or seller of obscene material or child pornography that affects interstate or foreign commerce to recover damages suffered as a result of the sex offense. Directs that any such action in which it is alleged that exposure of the sex offender to the material was a substantial cause of the commission of a sex offense, be brought in a court sitting in the Federal judicial district in which the material or pornography was exhibited, rented, or sold to the offender, and not be transferred to a court in any other district. Requires the plaintiff, in order to recover in a civil action brought under this Act, to prove by a preponderance of evidence (with exceptions) that:  (1) the victim was a victim of a sex offense for which the offender was convicted (or, if the offender was not convicted and is deceased, the plaintiff must establish beyond a reasonable doubt in the civil action that the sexual offense was committed by the offender against the victim); (2) exposure of the offender to the material or pornography was a substantial cause of the offense; (3) the defendant is:  (a) a producer or distributor of material that was produced or distributed by the defendant after the date of enactment of this Act and that was exhibited, rented, or sold to the offender; (b) an exhibitor, renter, or seller of the material that exhibited, rented, or sold the material to the offender after such date; (c) a producer or distributor of pornography that was produced or distributed by the defendant after May 21, 1984, and was exhibited, rented, or sold to the offender; or (d) an exhibitor, renter, or seller of child pornography that exhibited, rented, or sold child pornography to the offender after May 21, 1984; (4) the defendant was convicted of a violation of Federal, State, or local criminal obscenity or child pornography law in a jurisdiction in which venue is appropriate for producing, distributing, exhibiting, renting, or selling the material or pornography that is alleged to have been a substantial cause of the sex offense; (5) in a case involving obscene material, the material is obscene beyond a reasonable doubt, the defendant reasonably should have foreseen that exposure of a person to the material produced, distributed, exhibited, rented, or sold by the defendant would be a substantial cause of the commission of a sex offense, and the material was of such a nature as to incite the criminal sexual behavior of the offender; and (6) the production, distribution, exhibition, rental, sale, or transport of the material or pornography by the defendant affects interstate or foreign commerce. Specifies that exposure of a person to the material or pornography shall be considered to have been a substantial cause of the person's commission of a sex offense if it was a direct motivating factor in causing the offender to commit the offense.  Permits the court, on motion of the plaintiff or the defendant, to order a physical or mental examination of an offender to the extent permitted under the Constitution. Directs that:  (1) the plaintiff be awarded actual damages (including compensation for pain and suffering) and costs of the suit; and (2) damages be assessed against each of a defendant producer, distributor, exhibitor, renter, or seller of the material or pornography in an amount proportionate to the share of injury to the victim for which each such defendant is responsible. Prohibits such an action unless it is brought on or before:  (1) one year after the date on which a judgment entered in criminal proceedings against the sex offender becomes final; and (2) seven years after the date on which the material or pornography was exhibited, rented, or sold to the offender. Tolls the statute of limitation during the period beginning on the date:  (1) on which the victim of a sex offense makes a complaint with law enforcement authorities and ending on the date on which a judgment in criminal proceedings against the offender becomes final; and (2) any person makes a complaint with such authorities against a defendant in the civil action for violation of a Federal, State, or local criminal obscenity or pornography law for producing, distributing, exhibiting, renting, or selling the material of pornography that is alleged to have been a substantial cause of a sex offense and ending on the date on which a judgment in the criminal proceedings becomes final.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1521
102-s-1494,102,s,1494,Federal Courts Study Committee Implementation Act of 1991,Law,1991-07-18,1991-08-29,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Heflin, Howell [D-AL]",AL,D,H000445,0,"Federal Courts Study Committee Implementation Act of 1991 - Title I:  Implementation of Federal Courts Study Committee Recommendations - Establishes an intercircuit conflict resolution demonstration program under which the Supreme Court may issue an order of reference with regard to a matter as to which the lower courts are in disagreement. Directs the Clerk of the Supreme Court, in such event, to select at random a court of appeals to hear the case for a decision en banc (which decision shall be final, subject to discretionary review by the Supreme Court within 30 days). Authorizes the Supreme Court to issue temporary rules supplemental to its own rules and to the Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure governing the procedure in the Supreme Court and the courts of appeals in cases referred under this Act. Directs the Judicial Conference of the United States to establish a committee to monitor and evaluate, and to report to the Congress and the Judicial Conference on, the operation and effect of this title. Requires each committee of the Congress to include with any bill or resolution reported from such committee to the Senate or House of Representatives a judicial impact statement that represents that specified issues have been considered, including:  (1) whether a private cause of action is contemplated; (2) the definition of key terms; (3) the types of relief available; (4) whether retroactive applicability is intended; and (5) the viability of private arbitration and other dispute resolution agreements under enactment and relief provisions. Requires each Member of the Congress, to the greatest extent practicable, to consider such issues for any bill or resolution introduced and any amendment proposed in the Senate or House of Representatives. Mandates that all submissions of budget requests and information related to the formulation of the budget submitted by the President for the Court of International Trade and the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit be made to the Office of Management and Budget through the Federal judiciary in the same manner as a U.S. court of appeals. Amends the Federal judicial code to:  (1) require (current law authorizes) the judicial council of each circuit to establish a bankruptcy appellate panel to hear and determine appeals, unless a judicial council establishes a joint panel to do so; and (2) authorize the Supreme Court to prescribe rules for the appeal of final and interlocutory decisions. Grants district courts original jurisdiction of civil actions based on diversity of citizenship where the matter in controversy exceeds the sum or value of $75,000 (currently, $50,000), if the plaintiff in such an action is not a citizen of the State in which such district court is located.  Specifies that, on January 1 of each year, the monetary threshold necessary to meet the jurisdictional standard based on diversity of citizenship shall be increased by the percentage increase in the consumer price index for the preceding calendar year as determined by the Bureau of Statistics of the Department of Labor. Bars the removal of certain actions under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 to Federal court unless the matter in controversy exceeds $10,000. Amends the Economic Stabilization Act of 1970 to allow appeals from orders or judgments entered by a U.S. district court in cases arising under such Act to be brought in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (Federal Circuit), subject to specified limitations. Amends the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 to transfer all cases of the Temporary Emergency Court of Appeals to the Federal Circuit. Includes within the jurisdiction of the Federal Circuit specified appeals under:  (1) the Economic Stabilization Act of 1970; (2) the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act of 1973; (3) the Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978; and (4) the Energy Policy and Conservation Act. Abolishes the Temporary Emergency Court of Appeals and transfers any pending cases to the Federal Circuit. Transfers jurisdiction for supervised release revocation hearings from district courts to the U.S. Parole Commission.  Repeals a provision authorizing the judicial officer to commence a prosecution for contempt for a violation of a condition of release.  Directs the Parole Commission to assign licensed attorneys as hearing officers in revocation hearings under this title. Amends the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act to:  (1) extend from 90 to 120 days the period before exhaustion of remedies; (2) require States to enact fair and effective administrative procedures and remedies for inmate grievances within two years, and to submit such procedures and remedies to the Attorney General or the appropriate U.S. district court for certification and approval; (3) repeal a provision regarding minimum grievance standards and a provision authorizing the Attorney General to suspend or withdraw certification that administrative remedies are in substantial compliance with such standards; and (4) require the Attorney General to develop procedures for the prompt review and certification of systems for the resolution of grievances of adult inmates to determine if such systems are fair and effective in assuring the rights of such inmates (currently, to determine if such systems are in substantial compliance with certain minimum standards). Grants U.S.  Magistrates original jurisdiction over claims under $10,000. Title II:  National Commission on Federal Criminal Law Reform - National Commission on Federal Criminal Law Reform Act of 1991 - Establishes the National Commission on Federal Criminal Law Reform to: (1) perform a comprehensive study of the Federal criminal laws and draft a proposed recodification; and (2) coordinate, cooperate, and exchange information with the Congress, the judiciary, and the Department of Justice in undertaking such recodification. Sets forth provisions with respect to the composition, compensation, director, staff, powers, termination, and reporting requirements of the Commission. Authorizes appropriations.",2025-08-26T15:18:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1494
102-s-1487,102,s,1487,"A bill to amend section 97 of title 28, United States Code, to provide for Federal district court to be held in Hopkinsville, Kentucky.",Law,1991-07-17,1991-08-29,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. McConnell, Mitch [R-KY]",KY,R,M000355,0,"Provides that the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky shall be held in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, in addition to those places currently provided by law.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1487
102-s-1437,102,s,1437,A bill to amend title 28 of the United States Code to preclude the application of sovereign immunity in certain circumstances where a foreign state has taken property in violation of international law outside its territory.,Law,1991-07-09,1991-07-29,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Hatch, Orrin G. [R-UT]",UT,R,H000338,0,Amends the Federal judicial code to preclude the application of soverign immunity in cases in which rights in property taken in violation of international law are at issue and property was taken from within the boundaries of another foreign state and the foreign state (or agency of instrumentality thereof) taking the property owns or operates property in the United States in connection with a commercial activity.,2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1437
102-s-1427,102,s,1427,"A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to authorize the appointment of an additional bankruptcy judge.",Law,1991-06-28,1991-07-29,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Rudman, Warren [R-NH]",NH,R,R000497,1,Amends the judicial code to provide for the appointment of one additional bankruptcy judge for the district of New Hampshire.,2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1427
102-s-1375,102,s,1375,"A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to authorize the appointment of additional bankruptcy judges in Pennsylvania.",Law,1991-06-25,1991-07-29,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Specter, Arlen [R-PA]",PA,R,S000709,0,Provides for the appointment of two additional bankruptcy judges for the eastern district of Pennsylvania.,2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1375
102-s-1356,102,s,1356,"A bill to amend section 104(a)(1) of title 28, United States Code, to designate Tupelo, Mississippi, as an authorized site for holding Federal court.",Law,1991-06-24,1991-07-29,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Lott, Trent [R-MS]",MS,R,L000447,0,"Amends the Federal judicial code to designate Tupelo, Mississippi, as an authorized site for holding Federal court.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1356
102-s-1343,102,s,1343,Volunteer Protection Act of 1991,Law,1991-06-20,1991-07-29,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. DeConcini, Dennis [D-AZ]",AZ,D,D000185,4,"Volunteer Protection Act of 1991 - Prescribes circumstances under which volunteers working for nonprofit organizations or government entities shall be immune from personal financial liability for acts on behalf of the organization or entity.  Sets forth exceptions to and conditions on the granting of such immunity that a State may impose.  Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to increase by one percent the fiscal year allotment which would otherwise be made to a State to carry out the Social Services Block Grant Program under title XX of the Social Security Act if such State has, within two years, certified to the Secretary that it has enacted a State law which provides such immunity.  Provides for the continuation of such increase based on an annual recertification.",2025-08-26T15:15:24Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1343
102-s-1316,102,s,1316,"A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, with respect to the admissibility in evidence of foreign records of regularly conducted activity.",Law,1991-06-18,1991-07-29,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Thurmond, Strom [R-SC]",SC,R,T000254,0,"Amends the Federal judicial code to bar the exclusion as evidence by the hearsay rule, in any civil proceeding in a court of the United States, of a foreign record of regularly conducted activity if a foreign certification attests that:  (1) such record was made at or near the time of the occurrence of the matters set forth, or from information transmitted, by a person with knowledge of those matters; (2) such record was kept in the course of a regularly conducted business activity; (3) the business activity made such a record as a regular practice; and (4) if such record is not the original, it is a duplicate of the original.  Allows exclusion of such records if the source of information or method or circumstances of preparation indicate lack of trustworthiness. Provides that a foreign certification under this Act shall authenticate such record or duplicate. Specifies that:  (1) a party intending to offer in evidence a foreign record of regularly conducted activity shall provide written notice of such intention to each other party as soon as practicable after a responsive pleading has been filed; (2) a motion opposing admission in evidence of such record shall be made by the opposing party and determined by the court before trial; and (3) failure by a party to file such motion before trial shall constitute a waiver of objection to such record or duplicate, but the court for cause shown may grant relief from such waiver.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1316
102-s-1284,102,s,1284,A bill to make certain technical corrections in the Judicial Improvements Act of 1990.,Law,1991-06-12,1991-12-09,Became Public Law No: 102-198.,Senate,"Sen. Thurmond, Strom [R-SC]",SC,R,T000254,1,"Makes technical corrections to the Judicial Improvements Act of 1990. Extends to retired justices of the U.S. Supreme Court the exemption for teaching income from the requirement that outside income for a judge may not exceed 15 percent of his or her annual salary. Specifies that if a U.S. claims court judge separates from Government service and has a Thrift Savings Plan balance of $3,500 or less, the Executive Director of the Thrift Board may send such judge his or her nonforfeitable account balance in a single payment unless the judge elects another option. Extends until March 31, 1993 (currently, 1992) the deadline for a report by the Judicial Conference on implementation of the Criminal Justice Act program. Amends the Federal judicial code to provide that the filing of a notice of (currently, petition for) removal of a criminal prosecution shall not prevent the State court in which such prosecution is pending from proceeding further, except that a judgment of conviction shall not be entered unless the prosecution is first remanded (currently, petition is first denied). Revises provisions with respect to the time for appeal to the court of appeals.  Authorizes the district court:  (1) upon motion filed within 30 days after the expiration of the time otherwise set for bringing appeal, to extend the time for appeal upon a showing of excusable neglect or good cause; and (2) if it finds that a party entitled to notice of the entry of a judgment or order did not receive such notice from the clerk or any party within 21 days of its entry and that no party would be prejudiced, upon motion filed within 180 days after entry of the judgment or order or within seven days after receipt of such notice, whichever is earlier, to reopen the time for appeal for a period of 14 days from the date of entry of the order reopening the time for appeal.  (Current law provides that in any action, suit or proceeding in admiralty, the notice of appeal shall be filed within 90 days after the entry of the order, judgment, or decree appealed from, if it is a final decision, and within 15 days after its entry if it is an interlocutory decree; and authorizes the district court to extend the time for appeal for up to 30 days, upon a showing of excusable neglect based on failure of a party to learn of the entry of the judgment, order, or decree.)",2025-01-16T12:12:20Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1284
102-s-1250,102,s,1250,Illegal Drug Profits Act of 1991,Law,1991-06-06,1991-07-29,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Simon, Paul [D-IL]",IL,D,S000423,1,"Illegal Drug Profits Act of 1991 - Requires each clerk of a Federal or State criminal court to report to the Internal Revenue Service the name and taxpayer identification number of any individual charged with a criminal offense who posts cash bail, or on whose behalf cash bail is posted, in an amount exceeding $10,000, and any individual or entity posting such cash bail for such individual.",2025-08-26T15:15:13Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/1250
102-s-986,102,s,986,"A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to expand the original jurisdiction of Federal district courts in certain civil actions.",Law,1991-05-06,1992-01-27,"Committee on Judiciary. Hearings held at Harrisburg, PA and Allentown, PA. Hearings printed: S.Hrg. 102-803.",Senate,"Sen. Specter, Arlen [R-PA]",PA,R,S000709,0,"Creates a private right of action for customs fraud.  Authorizes injunctive and other equitable relief and recovery of damages and costs, including attorney's fees.  Grants the district courts original jurisdiction over any such action. Directs the court to permit the United States to intervene in any such action as a matter of right.  Specifies that court orders under this Act are subject to nullification by the President pursuant to presidential authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the provisions of this Act are consistent with, and in accord with, the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/986
102-s-983,102,s,983,Pornography Victims' Compensation Act of 1991,Law,1991-04-25,1991-07-23,Committee on Judiciary. Hearings held.,Senate,"Sen. McConnell, Mitch [R-KY]",KY,R,M000355,8,"Pornography Victims' Compensation Act of 1991 - Creates a cause of action against a producer, distributor, exhibitor, or seller of sexually explicit material by a victim of a rape, sexual assault, or sexual crime or by the estate, guardian, or survivors of any such victim.  Conditions the recovery of damages on proof by a preponderance of the evidence that: (1) the victim was a victim of a rape, sexual assault, or a sexual crime; (2) the material is sexually explicit in nature and was a proximate cause of the offense; (3) the defendant is a producer or distributor of the material or exhibited or sold it to the sexual offender and should have known that the material was sexually explicit; and (4) the sale or transfer of the material affects interstate or foreign commerce. Sets forth criteria by which the finder of fact may reasonably infer that such material was a proximate cause of the offense, including unusual similarities between the acts described or depicted and the actual offense, testimony of the offender, and testimony by experts who have examined the offender that such material influenced or incited the commission of the offense. Authorizes the award of damages for economic loss, compensation for pain and suffering, reasonable attorney's fees, and costs to prevailing plaintiffs. Directs the finder of fact, in determining whether the sexually explicit material was a proximate cause of the offense by influencing or inciting the offender to commit the offense, to consider all relevant information, including:  (1) possession by the sexual offender of the material produced, distributed, exhibited, or sold by the defendant; (2) whether such material depicts or describes violent behavior or acts, or children or child-like subjects participating in sexual activity; and (3) whether any language or matter contained in such material would tend to promote violent sexual acts or the sexual abuse of children or others. Sets a statute of limitations of six years from the date the right of action first accrued or, in the case of a legal disability, not later than three years after the termination of such disability.",2025-08-26T15:18:13Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/983
102-s-910,102,s,910,Judicial Nomination and Confirmation Reform Act of 1991,Law,1991-04-24,1991-05-06,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Graham, Bob [D-FL]",FL,D,G000352,1,"Judicial Nomination and Confirmation Reform Act of 1991 - Amends the Federal judicial code to require the President to submit a nomination to the Senate to fill a vacancy in the office of a justice or judge within 180 calendar days after the vacancy occurs. Sets forth conditions and procedures for obtaining an extension of such time limitation. Requires the Senate Judiciary Committee, within 90 calendar days after receiving such a nomination, to review the nomination and report it to the Senate for advice and consent.  Directs that:  (1) a nomination not reported to the Senate within such time limit be discharged from the Committee, without recommendation, for a vote by the Senate on confirmation; and (2) the Senate vote on such confirmation no later than 30 calendar days after receiving it.",2025-08-26T15:17:51Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/910
102-s-908,102,s,908,"A bill to provide that the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania shall also sit in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.",Law,1991-04-23,1991-05-06,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Specter, Arlen [R-PA]",PA,R,S000709,0,Amends the Federal judicial code to provide for the U.S. district court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania to be held in Lancaster.,2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/908
102-s-863,102,s,863,a bill to amend the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure with respect to the examination of prospective jurors.,Law,1991-04-18,1991-05-06,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Heflin, Howell [D-AL]",AL,D,H000445,0,Amends the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure to revise certain guidelines with respect to the examination of prospective jurors. Requires the court to permit the plaintiff and defendant or their attorneys each at least 30 minutes to conduct an oral examination of the prospective jury.,2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/863
102-s-865,102,s,865,Civil Voir Dire Demonstration Act of 1991,Law,1991-04-18,1992-04-23,Referred to the Subcommittee on Intellectual Property and Judicial Administration.,Senate,"Sen. Heflin, Howell [D-AL]",AL,D,H000445,0,"Civil Voir Dire Demonstration Act of 1991 - Directs the Judicial Conference of the United States to conduct a four-year demonstration program under which four district courts adopt and follow a local rule which requires the court, at the request of the plaintiff or defendant (and except upon an affirmative finding by the court that the interests of justice require otherwise), to permit the plaintiff and defendant or their attorneys each a minimum of 30 minutes to conduct an oral examination of the prospective jury. Specifies that such rule shall:  (1) allow additional time for examination by the attorneys at the court's discretion; (2) allow the court to conduct its own examination and impose reasonable limitations with respect to the questions allowed during such voir dire examination; and (3) limit each side, in cases where there are multiple parties, to an additional ten minutes for each additional party, provided that the total time required does not exceed one hour per side.  Makes decisions made by a court under such rule non-reviewable except for an abuse of discretion. Directs the Judicial Conference to study and report to the House and Senate Judiciary Committees on the results of such demonstration program.",2025-08-26T15:13:53Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/865
102-s-723,102,s,723,Child Custody Jurisdiction Reform Act of 1991,Law,1991-03-21,1991-03-25,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Domenici, Pete V. [R-NM]",NM,R,D000407,3,Child Custody Jurisdiction Reform Act of 1991 - Amends the Federal judicial code to specify that a State making an original child custody decree retains jurisdiction as long as such State remains the residence of the child or of any contestant in the custody determination.,2025-08-26T15:15:33Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/723
102-s-646,102,s,646,"A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to authorize the appointment of additional bankruptcy judges.",Law,1991-03-13,1991-09-23,By Senator Biden from Committee on Judiciary filed written report. Report No. 102-156.,Senate,"Sen. DeConcini, Dennis [D-AZ]",AZ,D,D000185,16,"Amends the Federal judicial code to provide for the appointment of additional bankruptcy judges for:  (1) the districts of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, and South Carolina; (2) the middle districts of Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee; (3) the eastern districts of Pennsylvania and Virginia; (4) the southern districts of Florida, Illinois, and New York; (5) the northern districts of Alabama, Georgia, and Texas; (6) the western districts of Tennessee and Texas; and (7) the central district of California. Directs the Judicial Conference of the United States to:  (1) conduct a comprehensive review, by December 31, 1992, and every two years thereafter, of all judicial districts to assess the continuing need for the bankruptcy judges authorized; and (2) report to the Congress its findings and any recommendations for the elimination of any authorized position when a vacancy exists by reason of resignation, retirement, removal, or death.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/646
102-s-653,102,s,653,"A bill to prohibit injunctive relief, or an award of costs, including attorney's fees, against a judicial officer for action taken in a judicial capacity.",Law,1991-03-13,1991-11-20,Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 336.,Senate,"Sen. Heflin, Howell [D-AL]",AL,D,H000445,12,"Amends the Civil Rights Attorney's Fees Awards Act of 1976 and other Federal civil rights law to provide that a judicial official (includes both State and Federal judges) shall not be liable for any costs, including attorney fees, or injunctive relief in any proceeding brought against the official for an act or omission committed in his or her judicial capacity.  Creates an exception if the action was clearly in excess of the official's jurisdiction or, in the case of injunctive relief, if a declaratory decree was violated or declaratory relief was unavailable.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/653
102-s-660,102,s,660,"A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, to authorize the appointment of an additional bankruptcy judge for the Southern District of Illinois.",Law,1991-03-13,1991-03-13,Read twice and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Simon, Paul [D-IL]",IL,D,S000423,1,Amends the Federal judicial code to provide for the appointment of one additional bankruptcy judge for the southern district of Illinois.,2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/660
102-s-444,102,s,444,District of Columbia Child Custody Civil Contempt Extension and Revision Act of 1991,Law,1991-02-20,1991-02-20,Read twice and referred to the Committee on Governmental Affairs.,Senate,"Sen. Levin, Carl [D-MI]",MI,D,L000261,0,"District of Columbia Child Custody Civil Contempt Extension and Revision Act of 1991 - Amends the District of Columbia Code to require any order of the D.C. Superior Court or the D.C. Court of Appeals issued relating to the incarceration of an individual for civil contempt in a child custody case to be reviewed by a judge of that court, other than the judge who entered the order, every 30 days while the incarceration continues to ensure that further incarceration is appropriate.",2025-08-26T15:17:34Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/444
102-s-352,102,s,352,National Guardianship Rights Act of 1991,Law,1991-02-05,1991-03-25,Referred to Subcommittee on Constitution.,Senate,"Sen. Glenn, John H., Jr. [D-OH]",OH,D,G000236,4,"National Guardianship Rights Act of 1991 - Grants the following rights to allegedly incapacitated individuals with respect to guardianship proceedings:  (1) the nonwaivable right of prompt notice that includes specified required contents; (2) the right to a convenient forum; (3) the right to be present at all proceedings, unless disability prevents attendance; (4) the right to counsel; and (5) the right to an independent professional guardianship evaluation team of specified membership to examine the individual, report, and be available for cross examination during the guardianship proceedings. Requires dismissal of the guardianship action if the team determines the individual to be free of any incapacity. Grants the right to a jury in a guardianship proceeding, as well as the right to present evidence, call witnesses, and cross examine. Requires clear and convincing evidence that an individual is incapacitated and that no less restrictive form of intervention is available before a guardianship order may be issued.  Discounts age as a basis for determining incapacity. Limits both the scope and duration of transfers of responsibility for the care and protection of an incapacitated person or the management of his or her estate to the minimum necessitated by the particular incapacity.  Permits the individual to retain all rights not expressly transferred in the guardianship order.  Dissolves the order if its justification ceases to exist. Grants to an incapacitated individual the right to a competent and trained guardian.  Prohibits convicted felons from serving as guardians. Permits the right of appeal and the right to a prompt reconsideration of the determination of incapacity, the guardianship order, or the choice of guardian. Requires:  (1) guardians to report to the court at least annually on the financial, mental, physical, and personal status of the incapacitated person; and (2) courts to investigate at least annually the well-being of persons protected under their guardianship orders. Directs States to submit to the Attorney General implementation plans indicating compliance with this Act.  Describes procedures and timetables associated with these plans, including mandatory sanctions for States that fail to comply. Empowers the Attorney General to make grants to the States to enable compliance with this Act.   Enumerates permitted grant uses. Describes application and selection procedures.  Authorizes appropriations. Permits States to impose additional or more extensive protections that do not conflict with this Act.",2025-08-26T15:15:45Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/352
102-s-277,102,s,277,Equal Justice for Women in the Courts Act of 1991,Law,1991-01-29,1991-02-20,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Simon, Paul [D-IL]",IL,D,S000423,0,"Equal Justice for Women in the Courts Act of 1991 - Title I: Education and Training for Judges and Court Personnel in State Courts - Authorizes the State Justice Institute to award grants for model programs to be used by States in training judges and court personnel in State laws on rape, sexual assault, domestic violence, and other crimes of violence motivated by the victim's gender. Authorizes appropriations.  Requires the State Justice Institute to expend at least 40 percent of appropriated funds on:  (1) programs regarding domestic violence; and (2) programs regarding rape and assault. Title II:  Education and Training for Judges and Court Personnel in Federal Courts - Directs the Federal Judicial Center to study and report on the nature and extent of gender bias in the Federal courts. Requires the Center to develop and disseminate model programs to be used in training Federal judges and court personnel in the laws on rape, sexual assault, domestic violence, and other crimes of violence motivated by the victim's gender. Authorizes appropriations.  Requires between 25 and 40 percent of such funds to be used for the study required by this title.",2025-08-26T15:14:11Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/277
102-s-214,102,s,214,Constitutional Convention Implementation Act of 1991,Law,1991-01-15,1991-01-24,Referred to Subcommittee on Constitution.,Senate,"Sen. Hatch, Orrin G. [R-UT]",UT,R,H000338,2,"Constitutional Convention Implementation Act of 1991 - Sets forth procedures for holding constitutional conventions for proposing amendments to the Constitution. Specifies general rules for State applications for such conventions. Provides a procedure for the Congress to adopt a concurrent resolution calling for a convention whenever it determines that at least two-thirds of the States have submitted within a seven-year period valid applications for the calling of a constitutional convention.  Requires that the convention be convened within eight months of the adoption of the resolution. Entitles each State to two delegates on an at-large basis and one delegate from each congressional district.  States that no Senator, Representative, or other person holding office under the United States shall be elected as a delegate. Requires the District of Columbia to elect as many delegates as the number of Senators and Representatives to which it would be entitled in the Congress if it were a State. Provides that the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives shall convene the convention. Authorizes appropriations for the payment of convention expenses. Authorizes the convention to conduct proceedings in accordance with such rules as it may adopt by a vote of three-fifths of the number of delegates who have subscribed to the oath of office. Prohibits such convention from proposing any amendment of a subject matter different from that stated in the concurrent resolution. Requires the presiding officer of the convention to submit any proposed amendment to the Congress. Provides that an amendment shall become valid when ratified by three-fourths of the States.  Permits a State to rescind its ratification, except when valid ratifications by three-fourths of the States exist. Entitles any State aggrieved by any congressional determination regarding its application for a convention or its ratification of a proposed amendment, or by any failure of the Congress to make such a timely determination, to bring an action in the Supreme Court for relief.",2025-08-26T15:17:30Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/214
102-s-133,102,s,133,Legal Fees Equity Act of 1989,Law,1991-01-14,1991-01-14,Read twice and referred to the Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Thurmond, Strom [R-SC]",SC,R,T000254,0,"Legal Fees Equity Act of 1989 - Delineates criteria for the award of attorneys' fees to parties in judicial and administrative proceedings against the United States and State or local governments. Sets a maximum hourly rate of $75 for the award of attorneys' fees in civil actions.  Prescribes guidelines under which courts and administrative officers are authorized to deny or reduce attorneys' fees.  Requires monetary judgments to be reduced by the amount of attorneys' fees (but not more than 25 percent) where a monetary judgment is awarded and a Federal fee-shifting statute applies. Requires applications for an award of attorneys' fees to be made within a specified time after a decision has been entered. Prohibits an award of attorneys' fees where the Government can demonstrate the claims have become moot due to a change in Government policy and the pendency of such action was not a material factor in such policy change.  Denies attorneys' fees for services performed subsequent to the time a written offer of settlement is made to a party, if such offer is not accepted and the relief finally obtained by the party is not more favorable to the party than the offer of settlement. Requires the Comptroller General to report annually to the President and the Congress on the amount of attorneys' fees awarded in judicial or administrative proceedings against Federal, State, or local governments. Imposes limitations on any executive or military department or any agency, board, or commission respecting the employment and compensation of outside private counsel.  Authorizes such a body to retain outside private counsel only upon certification of need by the Attorney General (in accordance with set regulations).  Sets a maximum hourly rate at $75. Requires the Attorney General, after consultation with the Office of Management and Budget, the Office of Personnel Management, and other agencies, to implement regulations governing the circumstances in which Federal agencies can retain outside private counsel.",2025-08-26T15:15:40Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/133
102-s-134,102,s,134,United States Marshals Association Establishment Act,Law,1991-01-14,1992-04-23,Referred to the Subcommittee on Administrative Law and Governmental Relations.,Senate,"Sen. Thurmond, Strom [R-SC]",SC,R,T000254,3,"United States Marshals Association Establishment Act - Establishes the United States Marshals Association as a charitable, nonprofit corporation to strengthen public knowledge of law enforcement and of the U.S. Marshals Service, to promote the exchange of information among private and public institutions and individuals about, and research of, law enforcement and justice systems issues, and to promote the general welfare of law enforcement. Authorizes the Director of the U.S. Marshals Service to provide personnel, facilities, and other administrative services to the Association and to accept the services of its officers and employees as volunteers. Specifies that the Association and any agent of the Association shall be considered an employer for purposes of title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 if the Association is engaged in an industry affecting commerce and meets the minimum employee requirements set forth in such Acts. Makes it unlawful for the Association, on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or disability, to:  (1) fail or refuse to accept an individual into membership; (2) expel such individual from membership; (3) suspend such individual's membership; or (4) discriminate against such individual with respect to any of the benefits or obligations of membership.  Authorizes:  (1) a right of action to enforce such prohibition; and (2) the court to grant injunctive or other equitable relief.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/134
102-s-135,102,s,135,A bill to provide that a justice or judge convicted of a felony shall be suspended from office without pay.,Law,1991-01-14,1991-01-24,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Thurmond, Strom [R-SC]",SC,R,T000254,0,"Amends the Federal judicial code to provide that a justice of the Supreme Court, a circuit judge, or a district judge convicted of a felony shall be suspended from office without pay pending the disposition of impeachment proceedings.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/135
102-s-146,102,s,146,Judicial Taxation Prohibition Act,Law,1991-01-14,1991-01-24,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Thurmond, Strom [R-SC]",SC,R,T000254,1,"Judicial Taxation Prohibition Act - Amends the Federal judicial code to deny inferior Federal courts jurisdiction to issue any remedy, order, writ, or other judicial decree requiring the Federal Government or any State or local government to impose any new tax or to increase any existing tax or tax rate.",2025-08-26T15:14:30Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/146
102-s-148,102,s,148,Reform of Federal Intervention in State Proceedings Act of 1991,Law,1991-01-14,1991-01-24,Referred to Subcommittee on Constitution.,Senate,"Sen. Thurmond, Strom [R-SC]",SC,R,T000254,12,Reform of Federal Intervention in State Proceedings Act of 1991 - Amends the Federal judicial code to condition consideration of a habeas corpus claim by a prisoner on a showing of actual prejudice resulting from the Federal right violated and that:  (1) State or Federal Government action precluded assertion of that right; (2) the Federal right did not previously exist; or (3) the factual basis of the claim could not have been discovered by reasonable diligence. Establishes a one-year statute of limitations for habeas corpus actions brought by State prisoners and a two-year statute of limitations for similar motions made by Federal prisoners. Vests authority to issue certificates for probable cause for appeal of habeas corpus orders exclusively in the courts of appeals. Permits denial on the merits of habeas corpus writs notwithstanding the failure to exhaust State remedies. Prohibits the granting of a habeas corpus writ with respect to any claim which has been fully and fairly adjudicated in State proceedings.,2025-08-26T15:17:38Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/148
102-s-195,102,s,195,Joint and Several Liability Reform Act of 1991,Law,1991-01-14,1991-01-24,Referred to Subcommittee on Courts and Administrative Practice.,Senate,"Sen. Pressler, Larry [R-SD]",SD,R,P000513,0,"Joint and Several Liability Reform Act of 1991 - States that the liability of each defendant in a tort action shall be several only and shall not be joint, unless the defendants engaged in concerted action, where liability shall be joint and several.  Apportions liability based upon the defendant's percentage of liability. Reduces the total amount of damages by the proportion of responsibility of any defendant or potential defendant who is released from liability by the claimant.",2025-08-26T15:14:15Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/senate-bill/195