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 93-s-4259,93,s,4259,Patent Modernization Act,Commerce,1974-12-19,1974-12-19,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Fong, Hiram L. [R-HI]",HI,R,F000245,0,Patent Modernization Act - Provides for the modernization and general revision of the patent laws (Title 35 of the United States Code).,2025-09-03T12:53:30Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/4259 93-s-4246,93,s,4246,Consumer Fraud Act,Commerce,1974-12-18,1974-12-18,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Moss, Frank E. [D-UT]",UT,D,M001033,0,"Consumer Fraud Act - Provides that whoever, in connection with the sale or distribution of goods, services, or other property by the use of any means or instrumentality of transportation or communication in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce or by use of the mails, willfully engages in or offers or attempts to engage in an unfair consumer practice, shall be fined not more that $10,000 or imprisoned for not more than 5 years, or both. Sets forth the definition of ""unfair consumer practice"", including: (1) offering goods or services intending not to sell them as offered; (2) advertising goods or services intending not to supply reasonably expectable public demands, unless the advertisement discloses a limitation; (3) knowingly making false or misleading statements concerning the need for, or necessity of, any goods, service replacements, or repairs; and (4) representing that the consumer will obtain any rights, privileges, or remedies knowing that the consumer will not in fact obtain them. States that any contract or agreement which provides for the purchase of goods or services in furtherance of an unfair consumer practice is void.",2025-09-03T12:53:27Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/4246 93-s-4240,93,s,4240,Motor Vehicle Fuel Economy Act,Commerce,1974-12-14,1974-12-14,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Domenici, Pete V. [R-NM]",NM,R,D000407,0,"Motor Vehicle Fuel Economy Act - Expresses the findings of Congress and declares the purposes of this Act, including: to encourage the manufacture of automobiles which reduce the amount of fuel consumed per mile traveled without reducing safety, damageability, or environmental standards. Defines the terms used in this Act. Directs the Secretary of the Department of Transportation to prescribe such minimum average fuel economy standards for any class or classes of new motor vehicles or new motor vehicle engines as in his judgment are necessary to assure the efficient utilization of fuels by such motor vehicles or engines. Sets forth the objectives of and the factors to be taken into consideration in such regulations. States that regulations shall be applicable to new light-duty motor vehicles manufactured during model year 1977 and thereafter, and with respect to model year 1977 shall be promulgated not later than two hundred and seventy days after the date of enactment of this Act. Provides that in order to determine whether new vehicles or new engines conform with regulations pursuant to this Act, the Secretary is authorized to test or require testing by such manufacturers. Empowers the Secretary and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to require manufacturers of new vehicles and engines to submit information and data as to sales and fuel economy and such other information that as may be required to ascertain compliance with the requirements of this Act. Requires manufacturers to: (1) warrant to the ultimate purchaser and each subsequent purchaser that the new motor vehicle or motor vehicle engine is designed, built, and equipped so as to conform to the regulations for its useful life; and (2) to affix on each new motor vehicle subject to regulation under this Act a label indicating the fuel economy as determined through testing required by or performed under this Act or under title II of the Clean Air Act, and such other fuel economy information as the Secretary may require. Provides that whenever the Secretary determines that new motor vehicles fail or will fail to achieve the fuel economy reported by the manufacturer or that the sales for any subclass or model are or will be substantially different than those reported by the manufacturer he shall inform the manufacturer of such determination and shall recommend corrective action to achieve the established standards. States that if the manufacturer fails to take corrective action within the time required, as determined in a proceeding, the Secretary may order the curtailment or suspension of sales of any models manufactured by such manufacturer. Makes technical and conforming amendments to the Clear Air Act.",2025-09-03T12:53:27Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/4240 93-s-4203,93,s,4203,A bill to repeal exemptions in the antitrust laws relating to fair trade laws.,Commerce,1974-12-03,1974-12-03,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Brooke, Edward W. [R-MA]",MA,R,B000871,5,"Repeals, under the 1890 Act to protect trade and commerce against unlawful restraints and monopolies and under the Federal Trade Commission Act, exemptions in the antitrust laws relating to fair trade laws (also known as resale price maintenance or quality stabilization laws) which permit agreements prescribing minimum or stipulated prices for the resale of brand-name commodities.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/4203 93-s-4188,93,s,4188,A bill to amend section 502 of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to provide for loans for plant acquisition.,Commerce,1974-11-25,1974-11-25,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. Curtis, Carl T. [R-NE]",NE,R,C001006,0,Authorizes the Small Business Administration to make loans for plant acquisition.,2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/4188 93-s-4051,93,s,4051,Products and Materials Shortages Research and Development Act,Commerce,1974-09-26,1974-09-26,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Tunney, John V. [D-CA]",CA,D,T000410,1,"Products and Materials Shortages Research and Development Act - States that it is the purpose of this Act to establish within the Department of Commerce, utilizing the National Bureau of Standards, a research and development program to alleviate existing and potential product and material shortages, and to improve technology with respect to such products and materials. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to, not later than one hundred and eighty days after the enactment of this Act, compile and publish a report identifying existing and potential product and material shortages and those research and development projects which are most likely to substantially reduce such shortages and improve product and materials technology consistent with the provisions of this Act. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants and to guarantee loans to promote research and development programs within the National Bureau of Standards and by private interests. Provides that, prior to making any financial assistance available under this Act to any person for a research and development project or prior to making any commitment to conduct any research and development project under this Act within the Department of Commerce, the Secretary shall afford to the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Administrator of the Federal Energy Administration an opportunity, not to exceed thirty days, to review and, if necessary, to modify such project. Provides that information, processes, or patents obtained as a result of research or demonstration projects solely funded by financial assistance under this Act may, as a matter of agreement, become the property of the United States and be dedicated to the general public.",2025-09-03T12:53:19Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/4051 93-s-4020,93,s,4020,A bill to amend the Small Business Act to authorize Federal revenue sharing grants to States to develop model programs to demonstrate the effectiveness of the use of independent State and local small business enterprise centers to provide technical assistance and other useful and practical services to small businesses.,Commerce,1974-09-19,1974-09-19,Referred to Senate Committee on Finance.,Senate,"Sen. Nelson, Gaylord [D-WI]",WI,D,N000033,0,"Empowers the Small Business Administration to enter into agreements with States to make model program revenue-sharing grants to such States out of funds appropriated pursuant to this Act for the purpose of developing and establishing State and local centers to provide technical assistance and other useful and practical advice, information and services to small business concerns. Limits the Federal share in such programs to 50 percent. Authorizes appropriation of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1975 and such sums as may be necessary for fiscal years 1976 to 1977 for the purposes of this Act.",2024-08-01T18:43:11Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/4020 93-s-4022,93,s,4022,"A bill to amend the Small Business Act to provide for compensation for small business and other losses arising out of the disturbances at Wounded Knee, S. Dak.",Commerce,1974-09-19,1974-09-19,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. McGovern, George [D-SD]",SD,D,M000452,2,"Establishes the Wounded Knee Compensation Commission to process claims for inquiries and losses arising out of the disturbances at Wounded Knee, South Dakota. Authorizes compensation, of 100 percent, to innocent persons. Requires such claims to be filed within a year. Authorizes the appropriation of necessary sums to carry out this Act.",2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/4022 93-s-3994,93,s,3994,A bill to amend section 401 of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to authorize guarantees of leases of commercial and industrial personal property.,Commerce,1974-09-12,1974-09-12,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. Javits, Jacob K. [R-NY]",NY,R,J000064,4,Authorizes guarantees of leases of commercial and industrial personal property under the Small Business Investment Act.,2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3994 93-s-3976,93,s,3976,"An Act to amend title 17 of the United States Code to remove the expiration date for a limited copyright in sound recordings, to increase the criminal penalties for piracy and counterfeiting of sound recordings, to extend the duration of copyright protection in certain cases, to establish a National Commission on New Technological Uses of Copyrighted Works, and for other purposes.",Commerce,1974-09-09,1974-12-31,Public law 93-573.,Senate,"Sen. McClellan, John L. [D-AR]",AR,D,M000332,2,"Provides for the elimination of the copyright expiration date of January 1, 1975, for a limited copyright in sound recordings for the purpose of protecting against unauthorized duplication and piracy of sound recordings. Sets forth increased criminal penalties for piracy and counterfeiting of sound recordings, and for the knowing and fraudulent transportation, sale, or receipt of phonograph records bearing forged or counterfeit labels. Establishes in the Library of Congress a National Commission on New Technological Uses of Copyrighted Works. States that the purpose of the Commission is to study and compile data on: (1) the reproduction and use of copyrighted works of authorship (A) in conjunction with automatic systems capable of storing, processing, retrieving, and transferring information, and (B) by various forms of machine reproduction, not including reproduction by or at the request of instructors for use in face-to-face teaching activities; and (2) the creation of new works by the application or intervention of such automatic systems or machine reproduction. Authorizes appropriations of such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.",2024-08-01T18:43:15Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3976 93-s-3960,93,s,3960,A bill to amend title 17 of the United States Code with respect to registration for unpublished works and with respect to the fees of the Copyright Office.,Commerce,1974-09-04,1974-09-04,Referred to Senate Committee on Rules and Administration.,Senate,"Sen. McClellan, John L. [D-AR]",AR,D,M000332,0,"Revises the copyright laws with respect to: (1) the rights of authors or proprietors of unpublished works; (2) the registration of unpublished works; (3) deposit of copyrights with the Copyright Office after publication; (4) actions or proceedings for infringement; and (5) duration, renewal, and extension of copyrights. Increases the fees payable to the Copyright Office for registration of claims to copyright and other services rendered.",2025-01-14T17:21:40Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3960 93-s-3886,93,s,3886,A bill to amend the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to increase a pollution control financing program for small business.,Commerce,1974-08-07,1974-08-07,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. Cranston, Alan [D-CA]",CA,D,C000877,0,"Provides that whenever the Small Business Administration determines that small business concerns are or are likely to be at an operational or financing disadvantage with other business concerns with respect to the planning, design, or installation of pollution control facilities, or the obtaining of private financing therefor, it may guarantee the payment of rentals or other amounts due under qualified contracts, and any such guarantee shall be for the full amount of the payments due under such qualified contract.",2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3886 93-s-3833,93,s,3833,Small Business Tax Reform Act,Commerce,1974-07-30,1974-07-30,Referred to Senate Committee on Finance.,Senate,"Sen. Tower, John G. [R-TX]",TX,R,T000322,1,"Small Business Tax Reform Act - Title I: Tax Simplification Relating to Small Business - Provides for a study by the Treasury Department and a report to Congress on the desirability of providing special depreciation rules for small business and for changes in the Tax Code to equate the treatment of fringe benefits as between incorporated and unincorporated small businesses. Revises the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code relating to the payment by small taxpayers of specified employment and excise taxes. Title II: Increase of Corporate Surtax Exception - Increases the corporate surtax exemption from $25,000 to $100,000. Title III: Special Provisions to Encourage Establishment of New Small Business Enterprises - Extends to partnerships the option now afforded corporations to amortize their organization expenses over 60 months. Extends the bad debt deduction provisions of the Code to lenders, or guarantors of small business obligations, whether the businesses are incorporated or not. Increases from $25,000 to $50,000 the amount of allowable losses resulting from the purchase of specified small business stock. Title IV: Provisions to Assist Small Business Growth - Increases the additional first-year depreciation for small businesses from $10,000 to $20,000 to reflect increases in the cost of living and doing business. Extends the period of the loss carryover provision for small business by allowing existing corporations to carry losses forward up to 10 years at their option. Increases from $100,000 to $200,000 the minimum accumulated earnings credit for all corporations. Reduces the accumulated tax rate on improperly accumulated earnings to 22 percent from 27 1/2 percent on the first $100,000 and 38 1/2 percent on amounts in excess of $100,000. Allows research and development expenses of small businesses to be amortized beginning at the time they are made rather than waiting until the taxpayer ""first realizes benefits"" from these expenditures. Title V: Provisions Relating to Subchapter S Corporations - Allows the enlargement of the Subchapter S tax-option small business corporations' shareholders. Expands the classes of shareholders to include: (1) trusts where stock passes pursuant to a will, and where the trust is used merely to convey the stock to a long-term eligible holder within 60 days; (2) trusts where the entire income is taxable to the grantor; and (3) small business investment companies, subject to the elimination of the dividends payed credit on such income.",2025-09-03T12:53:07Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3833 93-s-3672,93,s,3672,"A bill to amend title 17 of the United States Code to remove the expiration date for a limited copyright in sound recordings, to increase the criminal penalties for piracy and counterfeiting of sound recordings, and for other purposes.",Commerce,1974-06-19,1974-06-19,Referred to Senate Committee on the Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Baker, Howard H., Jr. [R-TN]",TN,R,B000063,4,"Provides for the elimination of the copyright expiration date of January 1, 1975, for a limited copyright in sound recordings for the purpose of protecting against unauthorized duplication and piracy of sound recordings. Sets forth increased criminal penalties for piracy and counterfeiting of sound recordings, and for the knowing and fraudulent transportation, sale, or receipt of phonograph records bearing forged or counterfeit labels.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3672 93-s-3664,93,s,3664,National Fuel Economy Testing Act,Commerce,1974-06-18,1974-06-18,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Nelson, Gaylord [D-WI]",WI,D,N000033,2,"National Fuel Economy Testing Act - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to determine and publish, on an annual basis, information with respect to the fuel economy of passenger motor vehicles.",2025-09-03T12:53:03Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3664 93-s-3619,93,s,3619,Small Business Emergency Relief Act,Commerce,1974-06-11,1974-10-10,Referred to House Committee on the Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Hathaway, William D. [D-ME]",ME,D,H000346,4,"(LATEST SUMMARY) Small Business Emergency Relief Act - States that it is the policy of Congress to provide equitable relief to small business concerns which have fixed price Government contracts in cases where such concerns encounter significant unavoidable difficulties during performance because of the energy crisis or rapid and unexpected escalations of contract costs. Authorizes the head of any executive agency to terminate for the convenience of the Government any fixed-price contract between that agency and a small business concern upon a finding that (1) during the performance of the contract, the concern has experienced significant unanticipated cost increases directly affecting the cost of contract compliance; and (2) the conditions which have caused such cost increases were experienced generally by other small business concerns in the market at the same time and were not caused by negligence, underbidding, or other special management factors peculiar to that small business concern. Sets forth documentation required of small business concerns requesting relief under this Act.",2025-09-03T12:53:04Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3619 93-s-3501,93,s,3501,Consumer Claims Court Act,Commerce,1974-05-16,1974-05-16,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Cook, Marlow W. [R-KY]",KY,R,C000721,0,"Consumer Claims Court Act - Title I: State Programs - Empowers the Attorney General to make grants and provide assistance to States to carry out the provisions of this Title. Sets forth the criteria which a State must meet to be eligible, on the basis of an application, for a grant to aid in the establishment of a state-wide system of consumer claims courts. Prescribes the record-keeping, auditing, and reporting duties of recipients of aid under this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this Title. Title II: Federal Small Claims Jurisdiction - Provides that the district courts shall have original jurisdiction of any civil action wherein the matter in controversy does not exceed $1,000 and (1) arises under the Constitution, laws, or treaties of the United States, or (2) is between citizens of different States; citizens and foreign states citizens or subjects; or citizens and foreign states, citizens, or subjects thereof who are additional parties. Confers small claims jurisdiction upon any United States magistrate who has been specifically designated to exercise such jurisdiction by the district court or courts be serves. Empowers each district court to establish rules of practice and procedure governing the conduct of civil actions tried before a magistrate. Enumerates the general content of any such rules.",2025-09-03T12:53:00Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3501 93-s-3483,93,s,3483,A bill to authorize the Federal Power Commission to enforce the antitrust laws.,Commerce,1974-05-13,1974-05-13,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Metcalf, Lee [D-MT]",MT,D,M000671,0,Authorizes the Federal Power Commission to enforce the antitrust laws with respect to companies subject to its regulation. (Amends 15 U.S.C. 21(a)),2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3483 93-s-3443,93,s,3443,Petroleum Moratorium Act,Commerce,1974-05-06,1974-05-06,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Mondale, Walter F. [D-MN]",MN,D,M000851,8,"Petroleum Moratorium Act - States that no person directly or indirectly engaged in the production of crude petroleum who possesses a major market share shall (1) control either directly or indirectly any pipeline or refinery which, on the effective date of this Act is controlled by any person who does not possess a major market share; or (2) operate either directly or indirectly any out- let which, on the effective date of this Act, is not operated by such person, or any subsidiary corporation or salaried employee of such person. States that a knowing violation of this provision shall be punished by a fine of not exceeding $100,000 or by imprisonment for not exceeding ten years, or both. Directs the Federal Trade Commission, the Attorney General, the Secretary of the Interior, the Director of the Federal Energy Office (or any successor office), the Secretary of Commerce, the Comptroller General, and the Director of the Office of Consumer Affairs to each undertake a study of the actions which may be required to preserve and enhance competition in the production, refining, transportation, and marketing of petroleum and petroleum products in the United States.",2025-09-03T12:52:59Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3443 93-s-3374,93,s,3374,A bill to amend the Small Business Act to assist in the financing of small business concerns owned by persons who are disadvantaged because of certain social or economic considerations.,Commerce,1974-04-24,1974-04-24,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. Buckley, James L. [R-NY]",NY,R,B001026,4,Revises the Small Business Act by providing that the Small Business Administration may guarantee equity investments made by investment companies in small business concerns which will contribute to a well-balanced national economy by facilitating ownership in such concerns by persons whose participation in the free enterprise system is hampered because of social or economic considerations. Defines the terms used in this Act.,2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3374 93-s-3377,93,s,3377,Consumer Product Testing Act,Commerce,1974-04-24,1974-04-24,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Magnuson, Warren G. [D-WA]",WA,D,M000053,1,"Consumer Product Testing Act - Requires the Federal Trade Commission to categorize consumer products into priority classifications for the purpose of developing standards for test protocols, the results of which will provide a basis to the consumer for judging and comparing product characteristics. Defines the terms used in this Act. Specifies relevant factors for the designation of priority classifications. Requires the Commission to commence a proceeding for the development of such a test protocol whenever the Commission determines that such would assist consumers in making informed purchases. Requires the Commission to promulgate advertising regulations with regard to products tested under this Act, and to furnish consumers with information about such products. Allows the Commission to contract for compliance of test results furnished by any person who has tested such products. Provides that the United States district courts shall have jurisdiction over any alleged violations or hardship claims arising out of the provisions of this Act. States that it shall be a civil violation under the Federal Trade Commission Act to induce or encourage the purchase of a product by falsely representing that it has been tested or by misrepresenting the results of such test, and, further, in the case of a person engaged in testing consumer products, to advertise or distribute a consumer product with respect to which there has been any statement or representation in violation of this Act. Provides, for a conviction of a wilful violation of this Act or regulations promulgated hereunder, a fine of not more than $10,000 for each day of violation, or imprisonment for more than one year or both. Authorizes specified appropriations for fiscal years 1974, 1975, and 1976 in order to carry out the provisions of this Act.",2025-09-03T12:52:50Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3377 93-s-3331,93,s,3331,Small Business Amendments of 1974,Commerce,1974-04-09,1974-08-23,Public law 93-386.,Senate,"Sen. Cranston, Alan [D-CA]",CA,D,C000877,0,"(LATEST SUMMARY) Small Business Amendments - Makes technical changes to the Small Business Act in terms of program funding, repayments to revolving funds, and program ceilings, transferring to the Small Business Act authority previously embodied in title IV of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964. Removes loans under title IV of the Economic Opportunity Act as permissible loans from the business loan and investment fund of the Small Business Administration. Limits the amount of loans, guarantees, and other obligations of the Small Business Administration that may be outstanding at one time. Empowers the Small Business Administration to make or guarantee loans, with particular emphasis on the preservation or establishment of small business concerns located in urban or rural areas with high proportions of unemployed or low-income individuals or owned by low-income individuals. Provides that in the case of loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration pursuant to the Small Business Act, for purposes of which the participating institution has made a valid demand under the terms of the guarantee, a rate of interest not to exceed that charged by the institution may continue to be charged by the SBA for the remaining term of the outstanding indebtedness. Empowers the Administrator of the Administration to make such investigations as he deems necessary to determine whether a recipient of or participant of any assistance under this Act or any other person has engaged or is about to engage in any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of any provision of this Act, or of any rule or regulation under this Act. Creates within the Treasury, under the Small Business Investment Act, separate funds for guarantees which shall be available to the Administrator without fiscal year limitation as revolving funds for the purposes of this Act. Authorizes appropriations to the funds from time to time in such amounts not to exceed $10,000,000 for the lease fund and $35,000,000 for the surety bond fund to provide capital for the fund. Authorizes Administration loans (either directly or in cooperation with banks or other lending institutions through agreements to participate on an immediate or deferred basis) to assist, or refinance the existing indebtedness of, any small business concern seriously and adversely affected by a shortage of fuel, electrical energy, or energy-producing resources, or by a shortage of raw or processed materials resulting from such shortages. Directs the Administrator to designate an individual within the Administration to be known as the Chief Counsel for Advocacy and to perform the following duties: (1) serve as a focal point for the receipt of complaints, criticisms and suggestions concerning the policies and activities of the Administration and any other Federal agency which affects small businesses; (2) counsel small businesses on how to resolve questions and problems concerning the relationship of the small business to the Federal Government; and (3) represent the views and interests of small businesses before other Federal agencies whose policies and activities may affect small businesses. Directs the General Accounting Office to conduct a full-scale audit of the Small Business Administration, including all field offices.",2025-05-07T16:27:31Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3331 93-s-3255,93,s,3255,National Appliance and Motor Vehicle Energy Labeling Act,Commerce,1974-03-27,1974-03-27,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Tunney, John V. [D-CA]",CA,D,T000410,2,"National Appliance and Motor Vehicle Energy Labeling Act - Authorizes the President to develop and promulgate energy conservation specifications for the following classes of products: motor vehicles, room and central air conditioners, refrigerators, freezers, clothes washers, dishwashers, clothes dryers, kitchen ranges and ovens, water heaters, comfort heating equipment, and additonal classes of appliances which use a significant amount of energy and which have an actual or potential range of energy efficiency from which one can choose. States that each specification promulgated under this Act shall include but need not be limited to: (1) a description of the class of product covered by the specification; (2) the range of energy efficiency and energy use data for that class of product as provided in this Act; (3) listings or descriptions of test methods to be used in measuring the energy efficiency and/or energy use characteristics of the class of product, providing that such test methods shall be methods the President determines are reasonable, technologically practicable, and appropriate; (4) a prototype label and directions for displaying the label, provided, however, that the specification shall require that the label be prominent and readable, visible to the consumer at time of purchase, shall specify the information that shall be included on the label to assist the consumer in comparing, by cost of energy used or otherwise, the energy efficiency and/or energy use characteristics of a particular product with all others in its class, and include the energy conservation mark specified in this Act; and (5) a statement covering the information on the energy use and/or efficiency characteristics of the product which is to be included in any product advertisement pursuant to this Act. States that a specification shall be effective 60 days after publishing in the Federal Register unless the President determines that an earlier or later date is in the public interest. Requires that, if the range of energy efficiency and/or energy use for a product group is not known at the time of publication of the applicable specification, test data obtained through the test methods prescribed in the specification for each such product shall be forwarded to the President within forty-five days after publication of such specification. States that specifications shall not apply to individual products the manufacture of which was completed prior to the effective date of the applicable specification. Specifies these requirements of manufactures to be met to enable the President to effectively carry out the provisions of this Act. States that any manufacturer, distributor, wholesaler, importer, or retailer of products for which a specification has been promulgated and is effective who causes to be advertised the energy characteristics of any such product must include all the information required by the specification applicable to such product. Provides for Government assistance to programs designed to educate consumers relative to the significance of the labeling program. States that this Act shall not apply to any product manufactured in the United States for the sole purpose of export from the United States. States that the offering for sale of any product without the required label, the removal of such label, the advertising of such product in violation of the provisions of this Act, the failure to allow access to information required to be supplied under this Act, or the failure of manufacturers to comply with the requirements under this Act shall be punishable by a civil penalty of not more than $10,000. Provides for injunctive enforcement and seizure by proceedings in rem by the United States District Court having proper jurisdiction as defined by the Act. Provides for judicial review in the United States court of appeals for the circuit wherein a person who will be adversely affected by the requirements of this Act resides or has his principal place of business. Authorizes to be appropriated the sums necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.",2025-09-03T12:52:50Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3255 93-s-3217,93,s,3217,Small Business Assistance Act,Commerce,1974-03-22,1974-03-22,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. Nelson, Gaylord [D-WI]",WI,D,N000033,3,"Small Business Assistance Act - Empowers the Small Business Administration to make such loans (either directly or in cooperation with banks or other lending institutions) as the Administration may determine to be necessary or appropriate to assist, or refinance the existing indebtedness of any small business concern to permit such concern to adjust to adverse economic effects that are determined by the Administration to be the direct or indirect result of national or regional shortages of energy, energy-related raw materials, or other raw materials or resources, if the Administration determines that such concern has experienced or is likely to experience substantial economic injury in the absence of such assistance. States that for purposes of this subsection, the Administration shall give special consideration to concerns doing a majority of their business or intending to locate or relocate in areas in which the level of unemployment meets the definition of ""persistent unemployment"" promulgated by the Secretaty of Labor; or in which a shortage in any specific type of energy, material, or resource is substantially greater than in the country as a whole. States that the interest rate on the Administration's share of any loan made under this Act shall not exceed 3 percent per year. Authorizes an appropriation to the disaster loan fund established pursuant to the Small Business Act of $100,000,000 solely for the purpose of carrying out this Act.",2025-09-03T12:52:50Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3217 93-s-3137,93,s,3137,Small Business Amendments,Commerce,1974-03-08,1974-03-08,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. Cranston, Alan [D-CA]",CA,D,C000877,1,"Small Business Amendments - Makes technical changes to the Small Business Act in terms of program funding, repayments to revolving funds, and program ceilings by transferring to the Small Business Act authority previously embodied in title IV of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964. Transfers to the Small Business Act the authority to render financial assistance to socially or economically disadvantaged persons. Empowers the Small Business Administration to make or guarantee loans, with particular emphasis on the preservation or establishment of small business concerns located in urban or rural areas with high proportions of unemployed or low-income individuals or owned by low-income individuals. Provides that in the case of loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration pursuant to the Small Business Act, for purpose of which the participating institution has made a valid demand under the terms of the guarantee, a rate of interest not to exceed that charged by the institution may continue to be charged by the SBA for the remaining term of the outstanding indebtedness. Provides an increase from $10,000,000 to $35,000,000 for the lease guarantee and the surety bond programs. Authorizes to be appropriated to the revolving fund sums necessary for the operation of both programs.",2025-09-03T12:52:44Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3137 93-s-3138,93,s,3138,A bill to amend the Small Business Act.,Commerce,1974-03-08,1974-03-08,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. Cranston, Alan [D-CA]",CA,D,C000877,1,"Increases from $4,875,000,000 to $6,000,000,000 the amount which may be outstanding from the Business Loan and Investment Fund at any one time under various sections of the Small Business Act and title IV of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964. Increases from $556,250,000 to $725,000,000 the amount which may be outstanding at any one time under title III of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958. Increases from $381,250,000 to $450,000,000 the amount which may be outstanding at any one time under title IV of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964.",2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3138 93-s-3116,93,s,3116,A bill to protect the individual's right to privacy by prohibiting the sale or distribution of certain information.,Commerce,1974-03-06,1974-03-06,Referred to Senate Committee on the Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Hatfield, Mark O. [R-OR]",OR,R,H000343,0,"Provides that whoever, through interstae or foreign commerce or the mails, knowingly sells or distributes, or offers or attempts to sell or distribute a list of names or addresses, or names and addresses, of individuals; information concerning the personal or financial condition or activities of an individual; or information concerning the personal or real property of an individual; without the consent of any individual to whom such list or information relates, shall be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned not more than one year, or both. Enumerates the circumstances under which this Act shall not apply, including: (1) federally authorized distributions; (2) information used only for law enforcement or national security; and (3) telephone directories, in specified instances. (Adds 18 U.S.C. 1801)",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3116 93-s-3096,93,s,3096,A bill to amend the Small Business Act to provide for loans to small business concerns affected by the energy shortage.,Commerce,1974-03-01,1974-08-07,"Measure indefinitely postponed in Senate, S. 3331 a related measure passed in lieu.",Senate,"Sen. Cranston, Alan [D-CA]",CA,D,C000877,21,"(LATEST SUMMARY) Provides loans under the Small Business Act to any small business concern seriously and adversely affected by a shortage of: (1) fuel; (2) electrical energy; (3) energy-producing resources; or (4) raw or processed materials resulting from such shortages. Requires that the Small Business Administration determine that a concern has suffered or is likely to suffer substantial economic injury prior to the making of such loans. Amends 15 U.S.C. 636 (6). Authorizes the Small Business Administration to expend not in excess of $5,000,000 to provide either directly or through contract for the promotion, collection and dissemination of information on energy conservation to small business concerns.",2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3096 93-s-3012,93,s,3012,"Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Amendments",Commerce,1974-02-18,1974-02-18,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Javits, Jacob K. [R-NY]",NY,R,J000064,0,"Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Amendments - Title I: Amendments to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act - Increases, under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, the fine from $1,000 to $10,000 for initial violations of that Act and from $10,000 to $25,000 for subsequent violations. Provides that whenever any article that is a food, drug, device, or cosmetic is found, by any officer or employee duly designated by the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, upon any premises where it is manufactured, processed, packed, or held, for introduction into interstate commerce or after its introduction, or in any article being used to transport or hold the article in interstate commerce, and there is reason to believe that the article is adulterated or misbranded within the meaning of that Act, or is an article which may not be manufactured, introduced into interstate commerce, or sold or offered for sale by reason of any provision of that Act, the article may be detained by that officer or employee for a reasonable period but not to exceed twenty days, pending action under that Act or notification of any Federal, State, or other governmental authority having jurisdiction over the article, and shall not be moved by any person from the place at which it is located when so detained (except as the officer or employee may authorize) until released by the officer or employee. States that insofar as practicable and consistent with the protection of the public health, the officer or employee shall allow the owner or bailee of the detained article to employ reasonable measures to preserve the article from decomposition. Extends the factory inspection authority to records of establishments subject to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Provides for the payment of travel and per diem expenses in connection with the training of state officials utilized by the Secretary to enforce the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act or the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act. Declares that, in addition to any other requirement imposed by the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, every person who owns or operates any factory, warehouse, consulting laboratory, or establishment in which food, drugs, devices, or cosmetics are manufactured, processed, packed, or held, for introduction into interstate commerce or after such introduction, shall establish and maintain such records, make such reports, and provide such information as the Secretary may, by regulation, reasonably require for the purposes of implementing that Act, or to determine compliance with rules or orders prescribed under that Act. Provides for the issuance of a subpoena to ascertain violations of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Requires on nonprescription drug labels the stating of the quantity of the drug's active ingredients. Provides for the mandatory registration of foreign establishments exporting drugs to the United States. Prohibits the export of uncertified antibiotics. Title II: Repeal of Laws Regulating Filled Milk and Filled Cheese - Repeals the Filled Milk Act and the Filled Cheese Act. Title III: Effective Date - Provides for the effective dates of the provisions of this Act.",2025-09-03T12:52:38Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/3012 93-s-2966,93,s,2966,Domestic Supply Information Act,Commerce,1974-02-06,1974-02-06,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Tunney, John V. [D-CA]",CA,D,T000410,1,"Domestic Supply Information Act - States that it is the purpose of this Act to require the Secretary of Commerce to furnish to the Congress periodic reports relating to the existence, causes, and future or potential existence and causes of shortages of products in interstate commerce. Establishes within the Department of Commerce an Office of Domestic Supply to carry out the functions of the Secretary of Commerce under this Act. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to: (1) establish criteria for determining whether an actual or potential shortage condition of any product in interstate commerce exists; (2) establish procedures for accepting and acting upon complaints of product shortages from the public; (3) conduct investigations to determine the cause and existence or potential existence of any such product shortage; (4) continuously monitor and evaluate the state of the economy to the extent necessary to achieve the purposes of this Act; and (5) determine whether an actual or potential shortage condition of any product in interstate commerce exists. Requires the filing of reports by the Secretary of Commerce and the Comptroller General. States that the Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce of the House of Representatives or the Committee on Commerce of the Senate shall, upon written request, make available to any Member of the House of Representatives or the Senate, a copy of any report received by such Committee under this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Department of Commerce for the purposes of carrying out the provisions of this Act, $500,000 for fiscal year 1974; $500,000 for fiscal year 1975; and $500,000 for each fiscal year thereafter. Authorizes to be appropriated to the General Accounting Office for the purposes of carrying out the provisions of this Act, $500,000 for fiscal year 1974; $500,000 for fiscal year 1975; and $500,000 for each fiscal year thereafter.",2025-09-03T12:52:44Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2966 93-s-2928,93,s,2928,Consumer Controversies Resolution Act,Commerce,1974-01-31,1974-12-11,"Placed on calendar in Senate under ""Subjects on the Table"".",Senate,"Sen. Magnuson, Warren G. [D-WA]",WA,D,M000053,3,"(LATEST SUMMARY) Consumer Controversies Resolution Act - Declares that it is the purpose of this Act to assure a consumer controversy resolution mechanism which is effective, fair, inexpensive, and expeditious, and to facilitate better representation of consumer interests. Defines the terms used in this Act. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to establish a Bureau of Consumer Redress. Directs the Commission to perform enumerated duties, including: (1) allocate and pay to the States funds appropriated for financial assistance to States under cooperative agreements; (2) review the operation of each State plan for the resolution of controversies involving consumers which has been approved under this Act; and (3) articulate and evaluate the goals for a model State system of consumer controversy resolution. Provides for the allocation to States of monies appropriated for financial assistance pursuant to this Act. Specifies purposes for which such funds may be used, including public education and publicity relating to the availability and proper use of consumer controversy resolution mechanisms and settlement procedures. States that, by the end of six months after the date of enactment of this Act, a State may submit a plan in accordance with this Act for the resolution of controversies involving consumers. Calls for the review of such plans periodically, but not less than once every two years, by the Director. Provides that a consumer controversy resolution mechanism is responsive to national goals if: (1) procedures are easy and inexpensive for the citizens and free from technicalities; (2) it is designed so that appropriate personnel can be provided consumers in pursuing claims and collecting judgments; (3) it is open or available for the adjudication or resolution of controversies during hours and on days that consumers and other citizens can easily utilize it; (4) it provides adequate arrangements for translation in areas with substantial non-English speaking populations; and (5) it is governed by procedures which are published and approved by the Administrator. Provides that a small claims court is responsive to national goals if: (1) it is part of the regular State court system; (2) it has a reasonable jurisdictional limit; (3) it assures that litigants will receive adequate notice of proceedings pending against them; (4) it has a procedure which will enable citizens to easily discover the proper names of persons or corporations to be sued; (5) it provides informal dispute resolution mechanisms that must be used by corporate plaintiffs prior to trial; (6) it contains a method of reducing misuse of default judgments; and (7) it provides effective means for securing prompt payment of judgments. Establishes the National Institute for Consumer Justice to investigate specific problems arising in the resolution of controversies in the interstate context, with special attention to be paid to the possibility of using United States Magistrates to resolve such controversies. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as are necessary, not to exceed $500,000 for fiscal year 1975, and not to exceed $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1976, provided that no more than 10 percent authorized be appropriated for Federal administrative expenses. Provides that whenever the Director or Commission submits any legislative recommendations, proposed testimony, or comments on legislation to the President or the Office of Management and Budget, it shall concurrently transmit a copy therof to Congress.",2025-09-03T12:52:40Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2928 93-s-2930,93,s,2930,Patent Law Modernization Act,Commerce,1974-01-31,1974-01-31,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Buckley, James L. [R-NY]",NY,R,B001026,0,"Patent Law Modernization Act - Revises the Patent Laws, title 35, United States Code.",2025-09-03T12:52:40Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2930 93-s-2899,93,s,2899,Interfuel Competition Act,Commerce,1974-01-28,1974-01-28,Referred to Senate Committee on the Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Abourezk, James [D-SD]",SD,D,A000017,1,"Interfuel Competition Act - Makes it unlawful for any oil company: (1) to acquire any coal, oil shale, tar sands, uranium, geothermal steam, and solar energy asset after the enactment of this section, or (2) to own or control any coal, oil shale, tar sands, uranium, geothermal steam, and solar energy asset after the expiration of three years after the enactment of this section. Require that each oil company which owns or controls any such energy asset shall file with the Attorney General and the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission reports respecting its energy assets. Directs the Attorney General and/or the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission to commence a civil action for appropriate relief whenever any person violates the provisions of this Act.",2025-09-03T12:52:40Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2899 93-s-2760,93,s,2760,A bill to amend the Small Business Act to provide for loans to small business concerns adversely affected by the energy shortage.,Commerce,1973-12-01,1973-12-01,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. Sparkman, John J. [D-AL]",AL,D,S000701,2,"Provides, under the Small Business Act, for loans to small business concerns adversely affected by the energy shortage.",2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2760 93-s-2750,93,s,2750,A bill to amend section 403 of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958.,Commerce,1973-11-28,1973-11-28,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. Cranston, Alan [D-CA]",CA,D,C000877,1,Increases from $10 million to $35 million the amount authorized for the lease guarantee and surety bond guarantee programs of the Small Business Administration. Authorizes additional capital to be appropriated as necessary to carry out such programs.,2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2750 93-s-2659,93,s,2659,A bill to establish a Conference on the Antitrust Laws.,Commerce,1973-11-05,1973-11-05,Referred to Senate Committee on the Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Mathias, Charles McC., Jr. [R-MD]",MD,R,M000241,0,"Establishes a Conference on the Antitrust Laws of the United States to: (1) study the operation of existing antitrust statutes, and their effect; (2) study the enforcement procedures of the Department of Justice, the Federal Trade Commission, and other agencies of Government as they relate to the antitrust laws; and (3) make recommendations for improvement in the statutory framework and administration of antitrust statutes. Provides for the membership composition of the Council, including members from the House, Senate, and private life. States that the general membership of the Conference shall consist of members of the Council, and at least sixty-one additional members of the public. Provides for the compensation of members of the Conference. Authorizes to be appropriated out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, so much as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. Directs the Conference to transmit to the Congress within two years a final report containing a statement of findings, conclusions and recommendations. Provides that the Conference shall cease to exist 60 days after the submission of such report.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2659 93-s-2628,93,s,2628,A bill to amend the Investment Company Act of 1940 and for other purposes.,Commerce,1973-10-30,1973-10-30,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. Sparkman, John J. [D-AL]",AL,D,S000701,0,"Provides, under the Investment Company Act of 1940, that any small business investment company which is licensed by the Small Business Administration under the Small Business Investment Act shall not be considered an investment company within the meaning of this Act. (Amends 15 U.S.C. 80a-3)",2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2628 93-s-2629,93,s,2629,A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 with respect to the income tax treatment of small business investment companies and shareholders in such companies.,Commerce,1973-10-30,1973-10-30,Referred to Senate Committee on Finance.,Senate,"Sen. Sparkman, John J. [D-AL]",AL,D,S000701,0,"Provides special rules for small business investment companies under the Internal Revenue Code. States that a small business investment company licensed under the Small Business Investment Act shall be considered a regulated investment company, provided that at the close of each taxable year: (1) at least 50 percent of the value of its total assets is represented by specified cash items and securities; and (2) not more than 25 percent of the value of its total assets is invested in the securities of any one issuer, or of two or more issuers which the taxpayer controls and which are engaged in similar or related trades or businesses.",2024-08-01T18:42:04Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2629 93-s-2525,93,s,2525,Foreign and Domestic Commerce Information Act,Commerce,1973-10-03,1973-10-03,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Tunney, John V. [D-CA]",CA,D,T000410,1,"Foreign and Domestic Commerce Information Act - Declares it to be the purpose of this Act to require the Secretary of Commerce to furnish to the Congress periodic reports relating to levels of demand, supply, export and prices of products in interstate commerce and to provide for an evaluation and analysis of such reports. Enumerates the products to which this Act will apply, including wheats, rices, barley, corn and rye. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to transmit (1) to the Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce of the House, (2) to the Committee on Commerce of the Senate and (3) to the Comptroller General a report setting forth specified estimates and analyses of domestic and export levels of products.",2025-09-03T12:52:25Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2525 93-s-2504,93,s,2504,Patent Reform and Modernization Act,Commerce,1973-10-01,1973-10-01,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Scott, Hugh [R-PA]",PA,R,S000174,0,"Patent Reform and Modernization Act - Provides for the general reform and revision of the Patent Laws, Title 35, of the United States Code.",2025-09-03T12:52:27Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2504 93-s-2482,93,s,2482,A bill to amend the Small Business Act.,Commerce,1973-09-25,1974-01-02,Public law 93-237.,Senate,"Sen. Cranston, Alan [D-CA]",CA,D,C000877,1,"(LATEST SUMMARY) Increases the appropriations amounts authorized under the Small Business Act. Expands the authority of the Small Business Administration to make loans to assist small business concerns in meeting regulatory standards. Provides for livestock loans and loans for adjustment assistance in base closings under the Small Business Act. States that the Administrator shall not discriminate on the basis of sex or marital status against any person or small business concern applying for or receiving assistance from the Administration. Provides that livestock loans under the Small Business Act shall include loans to persons who are engaged in the business of raising livestock (including but not limited to cattle, hogs, and poultry), and who suffer substantial economic injury as a result of animal disease.",2024-08-01T18:42:05Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2482 93-s-2467,93,s,2467,Franchise Act,Commerce,1973-09-21,1973-09-21,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Hartke, Vance [D-IN]",IN,D,H000297,0,"Franchise Act - Sets forth the findings of Congress and the definitions of terms used in this Act. States that the Federal Trade Commission may, by its rules and regulations, exempt from the disclosure requirements of this Act any franchise which meets specified requirements. Enumerates what actions shall constitute unfair practices under the Federal Trade Commission Act. States that any contract or agreement for the purpose of a franchise covered by this Act shall be voidable at the option of the franchisee, providing specified conditions are met. Provides that, with specified exceptions, the effective date of a disclosure statement shall be the twentieth day after the filing or such earlier date as the Commission may determine having due regard to the public interest and the protection of purchasers. Requires that a disclosure statement contain such information as the Commission may require as being necessary or appropriate in the public interest or for the protection of prospective franchisees, including: (1) the name of the franchisor, the trade name(s) or trademark(s) under which he intends or is doing business, and the name of any parent or affiliated company that will engage in transactions with franchisees; (2) the name of the State under which the franchisor is organized and the location the principal place of business; (3) the names and addresses, educational and business background, and biographical data, stated individually, of the directors, the chief executive, the financial accounting, principal executive officers, all partners, and of the franchisor and (4) other enumerated statements relating to the franchise and attendant interests. Specifies the procedures for applications for registration, registration renewal statements and amendments thereto. Authorizes the Commission to promulgate such rules and regulations as it deems necessary to implement and interpret this Act. Sets forth civil liabilities incurrable under this Act and other remedies available for violations of specified provisions. Provides for the jurisdiction of offenses and suits under this Act. Provides that the fact that a disclosure statement has been filed or is in effect shall not be deemed a finding by the Commission that such statement is in any way true and accurate in substance or on its face, or be held to mean that the Commission has in any way passed upon the merits or given approval to such franchise. States that any condition, stipulation, or provision binding any person acquiring any franchise to waive compliance with any provision of this Act or the rules and regulations prescribed thereunder shall be without effect and void.",2025-09-03T12:52:19Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2467 93-s-2469,93,s,2469,A bill to carry into effect certain provisions of the Patent Cooperation Treaty.,Commerce,1973-09-21,1973-09-21,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. McClellan, John L. [D-AR]",AR,D,M000332,0,"Provides for the implementation of specified provisions of the Patent Cooperation Treaty. Provides that the Patent Office shall act as a Receiving Office for international applications filed by nationals or residents of the United States, and may also act (1) as a Receiving Office for international applications; and (2) as an International Searching Authority with respect to international applications. States that a national application shall be entitled to the right of priority based on a prior filed international application which designated at least one country other than the United States. Sets forth the order of priorities as between other applications. Specifies the procedure for withdrawal of international applications and for review of actions of other authorities. Provides that the filing of an international application in a country other than the United States on an invention made in this country shall be considered to constitute the filing of an application in a foreign country, whether or not the United States is designated in that international application. Enumerates the items to be filed by the applicant in the Patent Office for commencement of the national stage of processing. States that all questions of substance and procedure in all international application designating the United States shall be determined as in the case of national applications regularly filed in the Patent Office. Provides that the publication, under the treaty, of an international application shall confer no rights and shall have no effect under this title other than that of a printed publication. Specifies the fees required and permitted to be charged by the Patent Office. Provides for the allocation of funds appropriated to the Patent Office, to the Department of State for the purpose payment of the share on the part of the United States, to the working capital fund established under the Patent Cooperation Treaty. Makes conforming amendments to the patents provisions of the United States Code relating to: (1) conditions for patentability; novelty and loss of right to patent; (2) specification of the invention; (3) drawings; and (4) presumption of validity; defenses.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2469 93-s-2287,93,s,2287,"A bill to supplement the Federal Trade Commission Act by amending it to increase competition, promote interstate and foreign commerce, prevent unreasonable restraints on commerce and the commercial working of technology advancements, to protect the freedom of employment for scientists and engineers.",Commerce,1973-07-30,1973-07-30,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Hart, Philip A. [D-MI]",MI,D,H000291,0,"Makes it an unfair practice, under the Federal Trade Commission Act, for the owner of a United States patent or licensee with sublicensing rights to refuse to license such patent (together with the know-how necessary for the best modes of working the subject matter of the patent) to any applicant on reasonable and nondiscriminatory terms, when the effect of such refusal may substantially lessen commerce, and the patented subject matter meets the criteria enumerated in this Act. Makes it an unfair practice for any corporation to enter into any contract with any employee which provides that such employee shall not engage in any trade or profession subsequent to the termination of his employment, where the effect of such provision may be substantially to lessen competition, tend to create a monopoly, or substantially lessen the opportunity of such employee to pursue his livelihood. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to prescribe rules and regulations as may be necessary for carrying out the purposes of this Act. Provides that the Office of Management and Budget shall not inspect the subpenas, general or special orders, records, work, or congressional recommendations or testimony of the Commission or any member thereof or comment on any budget request made by the Commission, any other provision of law to the contrary notwithstanding. States that the Comptroller General shall conduct such reviews, audits, and evaluations of the Commission as he deems necessary.",2025-01-14T18:51:33Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2287 93-s-2111,93,s,2111,Price Disclosure Act,Commerce,1973-06-29,1973-06-29,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Magnuson, Warren G. [D-WA]",WA,D,M000053,1,"Price Disclosure Act - Declares that no person engaged in business in the sale at retail of any packaged consumer commodity which has been distributed in commerce, or the distribution of which affects commerce, shall sell, offer for sale, or display for sale any such commodity unless: (1) the total selling price of such commodity is plainly marked by a stamp, tag, or label affixed to a principal display panel of the package or by a label or sign at the point of display of such package; and (2) the retail unit price of such commodity is plainly marked by a stamp, tag, or label affixed to a principal display panel of the package, or a label or sign in close proximity to the point of display of such package, which label or sign shall also contain the name and quantity of contents of such commodity. Exempts from these requirements: (1) any individual retail outlet which sells or offers for sale packaged consumer commodities and whose total gross sales do not exceed $250,000 per annum, unless such an outlet is one of a number of outlets owned substantially or whose inventory is supplied substantially, by a single person, partnership, or corporation whose total gross sales exceed $500,000 per annum; or (2) any retail outlet in any State or any political subdivsion thereof which has enacted mandatory unit pricing laws and whose laws, in the judgment of the Federal promulgatin authority, are in full force and effect and are comparable in scope and comprehensiveness to the requirements of this Act, except the retailers (including chainstores and affiliated stores) who operate outlets in any such geographical area who shall be subject to the provisions of this Act if they also operate outlets in one or more other States or political subdivisions.",2025-09-03T12:52:11Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2111 93-s-2082,93,s,2082,Petroleum Marketing Divorcement Act,Commerce,1973-06-27,1973-06-27,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. McIntyre, Thomas J. [D-NH]",NH,D,M000486,0,"Petroleum Marketing Divorcement Act - Makes it unlawful for any person directly or indirectly to be engaged in commerce in the marketing of refined petroleum products while such person or affiliate of such person is also engaged in one or more of the other three branches of the petroleum industry; namely, production, refining, and transportation. Provides that any person who knowingly violates the provisions of this Act on or after January 1, 1974, shall upon conviction be punished by a fine of not to exceed $100,000 for each such offense committed. Makes it the duty of the Attorney General immediately to examine the relationships of persons now engaged in one or more branches of the petroleum industry and to institute suits in equity in the United States district courts for the issuance of mandatory injunctions commanding any person to comply with the provisions of this Act.",2025-09-03T12:52:12Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2082 93-s-2051,93,s,2051,"A bill to amend the Trademark Act to extend the time for filing oppositions, to eliminate the requirement for filing reasons of appeal in the Patent Office, and to provide for awarding attorney fees.",Commerce,1973-06-22,1973-06-22,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. McClellan, John L. [D-AR]",AR,D,M000332,0,"Extends, under the Trademark Act, the time for filing oppositions. Eliminates the requirements for filing reasons of appeal in the Patent Office. Provides for awarding attorney fees in exceptional cases.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2051 93-s-2028,93,s,2028,Truth in Housing Act,Commerce,1973-06-20,1973-07-25,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Hart, Philip A. [D-MI]",MI,D,H000291,0,"Truth in Housing Act - Declares it to be the purpose of this Act to promote effective price competition by (1) minimizing the capacity of sales practices to deceive the consumer; and (2) by enabling the consumer to make an informed choice with respect to the cost of purchasing and maintaining a dwelling, especially regarding plumbing, heating and electrical systems and structural components. Provides that any person who sells, acts as an agent, or furnishes mortgage credit for the purchase of a dwelling for occupancy by not more than 4 families shall be responsible for the written disclosure to the purchaser of any substantial defects which exist. States that where such disclosure has not been made the contract shall be voidable at the option of the purchaser. Provides that if any part of a written disclosure contains an untrue statement, the purchaser acquiring the dwelling may bring an action in any court of competent jurisdiction, against the seller or his agent in the sale, and the person who furnished mortgage credit for the purchase of that dwelling. Makes void any condition purporting to bind a person acquiring any dwelling to which this Act applies to waive compliance with any provision of this Act. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to administer and enforce this Act, with the assistance of the Secretary for Housing and Urban Development, the Administrator for Veterans Affairs, and the Secretary of Agriculture. Directs the Commission to establish an Advisory Committee to advise and consult with in the exercise of its functions under this Act. Authorizes appropriations to the Commission of such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.",2025-09-03T12:52:06Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/2028 93-s-1957,93,s,1957,"A bill to amend title 35, United States Code, ""Patents"".",Commerce,1973-06-07,1973-06-07,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. McClellan, John L. [D-AR]",AR,D,M000332,0,"Authorizes the Commissioner of Patents to accept a late payment of the issue fee if such payment is shown to have been unavoidable. Requires Senate confirmation only of the Commissioner of Patents, the deputy commissioner and the two assistant commissioners. Provides for the appointment of an Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Patents and Trademarks by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. (Amends 35 U.S.C. 3, 35 U.S.C. 151)",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1957 93-s-1939,93,s,1939,Pyramid Sales Act,Commerce,1973-06-04,1974-09-11,Referred to House Committee on the Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Mondale, Walter F. [D-MN]",MN,D,M000851,9,"(LATEST SUMMARY) Pyramid Sales Act - Makes it a crime, in connection with the sale or distribution of goods, services, or other property in interstate or foreign commerce or by the use of the mails, to sell, offer, or attempt to sell a participation or the right to participate in a pyramid sales scheme. Sets forth penalties for violation of this Act. Makes any contract made in violation of this Act void and provides that any person who induces another person to participate in such a sales scheme liable to that person in an amount equal to the sum of three times the amount of consideration paid, plus a reasonable attorney's fee. Authorizes the Attorney General or the chief law enforcement officer of the State in which any person is engaged in a pyramid sales cheme to bring an action in the appropriate United States district court to enjoin such act or practice.",2025-09-03T12:52:01Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1939 93-s-1941,93,s,1941,Minority Business Assistance Act,Commerce,1973-06-04,1973-06-04,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. Tower, John G. [R-TX]",TX,R,T000322,0,"Minority Business Assistance Act - Transfers to the Secretary of Commerce all functions, powers, and duties heretofore vested in the Director of the Office of Economic Opportunity under title VII, of the Economic Opportunity Act, as amended. Permits the Secretary to provide financial assistance, under such terms and conditions as he deems necessary or appropriate, in the form of grants or grants-in-aid to individuals, partnerships, corporations, and other entities, and to States and their subdivisions and agencies thereof: (1) to assist them in developing and carrying out programs and projects designed to make available management and technical assistance to minority business enterprise, and (2) to assist in developing community support for minority business enterprise. States that grants or grants-in-aid authorized by the Secretary pursuant to this Act shall not exceed 90 percent of the total program or project cost. Provides that each recipient of assistance under this Act shall keep such records as the Secretary shall prescribe, including records which fully disclose the amount and the disposition by such recipient of the proceeds of such assistance, the total cost of the project or undertaking in connection with which such assistance is given or used, and the amount and nature of that portion of the cost of the project or undertaking supplied by other sources, and such other records as will facilitate an effective audit. Provides that the Secretary and the Comptroller General of the United States, shall have access for the purpose of audit and examination of any books, documents, papers, and records of the recipient that are pertinent to assistance received under this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the functions vested in the Secretary by this Act.",2025-09-03T12:52:05Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1941 93-s-1880,93,s,1880,Hobby Protection Act,Commerce,1973-05-23,1973-08-02,Measure indefinitely postponed in Senate.,Senate,"Sen. Hartke, Vance [D-IN]",IN,D,H000297,9,"Hobby Protection Act - Makes it unlawful to manufacture in the United States, import into the United States, or introduce or distribute in commerce: (1) any imitation political item which is not plainly and permanently marked with the calendar year in which such item was manufactured; and/or (2) any imitation numismatic item which is not plainly and permanently marked :COPY:. Directs the Federal Trade Commission to prescribe rules for the required markings. Permits any person to commence a civil action for injunctive relief and damages in any United States District Court for a district in which the defendant resides or has an agent.",2025-09-03T12:52:01Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1880 93-s-1846,93,s,1846,A bill to amend the Small Business Act by adding at the end thereof a new title.,Commerce,1973-05-17,1973-05-17,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. McGovern, George [D-SD]",SD,D,M000452,2,"Authorizes the Small Business Administrator to grant to any innocent person for any uninsured loss or injury which arose out of, or was caused by, the disturbance at Wounded Knee, South Dakota, or any related disturbance, an amount equal to 100 percent of such loss or injury. Requires the Administrator to report to Congress within 30 days of enactment hereof on the amount and extent of damage resulting from such disturbances. Provides that the Government may be subrogated to any right of action of any person compensated by this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated such funds as are necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.",2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1846 93-s-1816,93,s,1816,A bill to amend the Wool Products Labeling Act of 1939 with respect to recycled wool.,Commerce,1973-05-15,1973-07-23,Referred to House Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Pastore, John O. [D-RI]",RI,D,P000100,3,"Sets forth the definition of the term ""recycled wool"" as it is to be used in the Wool Products Labeling act. States that labels under the Wool Products Labeling Act shall use the term recycled rather than reused or reprocessed.",2025-01-14T18:51:33Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1816 93-s-1753,93,s,1753,A bill to amend the Interstate Land Sales Full Disclosure Act to provide for the licensing of developers in order to insure the maintenance of high professional standards.,Commerce,1973-05-08,1973-05-08,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. Hartke, Vance [D-IN]",IN,D,H000297,2,"Provides that no developer or agent under the Interstate Land Sales Full Disclosure Act shall make use of any means or instruments of transportation or communication in interstate commerce or of the mails to sell or lease any lot in any subdivision or offer to sell or lease any such lot unless such developer or agent has a license issued by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. States that the Secretary shall issue such license if the Secretary determines, on the basis of an application in such form as the Secretary may prescribe, that the developer or agent: (1) is of good character or business reputation; (2) meets such requirements as the Secretary may prescribe with respect to education, training, or experience; and (3) has not committed within the five years preceeding the date on which the application is filed any act which would be grounds for suspension of the license under this Act. Provides that the Secretary shall suspend for not less than one year nor more than five years any license issued by him under this Act if he determines that the licensee has violated certain requirements specified in this Act.",2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1753 93-s-1672,93,s,1672,An original bill to amend the Small Business Act.,Commerce,1973-04-30,1973-09-25,"Motion to override veto failed of passage in Senate, roll call #417 (59-36).",Senate,"Sen. Cranston, Alan [D-CA]",CA,D,C000877,0,"(LATEST SUMMARY) Increases, under the Small Business Act, the total amount of loan assistance which may be outstanding to: (1) $6,600,000,000 under specified sections of this Act and the Economic Opportunity Act; (2) $275,000,000 under title III of the Small Business Investment Act; (3) $600,000,000 under title IV of the Small Business Investment Act; and (4) $475,000,000 under specified sections of the Economic Opportunity Act. Includes, as the purpose of the Small Business Act, the making of loans to assist small business in effecting alterations or additions to plants to meet Federal or State law requirements, where such businesses are likely to suffer substantial economic injury without such assistance. Extends for two years, to July 1, 1975, the Small Business Administation authorization to compensate for specified losses due to major disasters. Provides that with respect to such a loan made in connection with a disaster occurring on or after April 20, 1973, but prior to July 1, 1975, and notwithstanding Public Law 93-24, the Small Business Administration shall, at the option of the borrower, either cancel $2,500 of the loan and make the balance of such loan at an interest rate of 3 percent per annum, or make the entire loan at an interest rate of 1 percent per annum. Provides that in the event of the refinancing of a home or a business, the monthly payments after the refinancing shall in no case be lower than such payments prior to the disaster. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make disaster loans at the same rate of interest and with the same forgiveness provisions applicable to Small Business Administration disaster loans pursuant to this Act. Provides that loans under the Small Business Act will include loans to persons who are engaged in the business of raising livestock, and who suffer substantial economic injury as a result of animal disease. Expands the term ""major disaster"" under the Disaster Relief Act to include erosion. Empowers the Small Business Administration to make such loans (either directly or in cooperation with banks or other lending institutions through agreements to participate on an immediate or deferred basis) as the Administration may determine to be necessary or appropriate to assist any small business concern in continuing in business at its existing location, in reestablishing its business, in purchasing a new business, or in establishing a new business if the Administration determines that such concern has suffered or will suffer substantial economic injury as the result of the closing by the Federal Government of major military installations under the jurisdiction of the Department of Defense, or as a result of a servere reduction in the scope and size of operations at a major military installation. Provides that the Small Business Administration shall make an annual report to the President, the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House on the state of small business. Provides that the Administrator of the Small Business Administration shall not discriminate against any person or small business concern receiving assistance from the Small Business Administration based on sex, and the Small Business Administration shall give special consideration to veterans of United States military service and the survivors of their immediate families.",2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1672 93-s-1585,93,s,1585,"A bill to prevent the unauthorized manufacture and use of the character ""Woodsy Owl"", and for other purposes.",Commerce,1973-04-16,1974-06-22,Public law 93-318.,Senate,"Sen. Talmadge, Herman E. [D-GA]",GA,D,T000035,0,"(LATEST SUMMARY) Declares as U.S. property the name and character ""Smokey Bear"" and the name and character ""Woodsy Owl"" and the associated slogan ""Give a Hoot, Don't Pollute"". Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to license appropriate private use of ""Woodsy Owl"" and the slogan ""Give a Hoot, Don't Pollute"" in return for royalty fees. Requires that such revenue be used to further the environmental protection program. Grants the Secretary the power to seek an injunction to stop the unauthorized manufacture, use or reproduction of ""Smokey Bear"", ""Woodsy Owl"" or ""Give a Hoot, Don't Pollute."" Creates criminal misdemeanor liability for the unauthorized commercial use of ""Smokey Bear"", ""Woodsy Owl"" or ""Give a Hoot, Don't Pollute.""",2025-01-14T16:41:20Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1585 93-s-1512,93,s,1512,Truth in Advertising Act,Commerce,1973-04-10,1973-04-10,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Moss, Frank E. [D-UT]",UT,D,M001033,1,"Truth in Advertising Act - Declares it to be the purpose of this Act to protect consumers by ensuring that no advertisement can be disseminated if substantiating documentation is not available to the public and by ensuring that individuals will be able to exercise their right to know and to act to promote fairness in advertising. Defines the terms ""advertisement,"" ""documentation,"" and ""principal office."" Makes it unlawful for any person to disseminate through the United States mail or in commerce by the use of such media - as radio, television, cinema, newspapers, magazines, billboards, posters, and display material, any advertisement concerning the safety, performance, efficacy, characteristics or comparative price of any product or service unless documentation is available at the principal office of such person for public inspection. Requires the disseminator to furnish copies of such documentation to any requester by mail, telephone, or otherwise, with the actual cost of duplication being charged to the requester. Makes the publisher, broadcast station, agency, or medium for the dissemination liable by reason of such advertising if he refuses, upon request, to furnish the name and address of the person who causes him to disseminate such advertisement. Makes the dissemination, or the causing to be disseminated, of any advertisement in violation of the provisions of this Act an unfair or deceptive act or practice in commerce within the meaning of of Federal Trade Commission Act. Directs that the Act will be enforced by the Federal Trade Commission, which may exercise the same powers that it exercises under the Federal Trade Commission Act. Empowers the Commission to prescribe all necessary substantive and procedural rules.",2025-09-03T12:51:46Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1512 93-s-1476,93,s,1476,Unfair Competition Act,Commerce,1973-04-05,1973-04-05,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Moss, Frank E. [D-UT]",UT,D,M001033,0,"Unfair Competition Act - States that any person shall be deemed to have engaged in unlawful and unfair competition under the Federal Trade Commission Act if he engages in any act, practice, or course of conduct, in or affecting commerce, which: (1) results, or is likely to result, in passing off goods or services which he offers as or for those of any other person, by reason of his copying or otherwise imitating or utilizing the product configuration, packaging, trade name, or other merchandising practice of such other person in specified circumstances; (2) materially and falsely disparages another person's goods or services to actual or prospective purchasers thereof; or (3) by a materially false or misleading statement, or by the omission of material information, misrepresents his or another person's goods or services, to actual or prospective purchasers therof. Provides that any person injured in his business by unlawful and unfair competition of this section, or likely to be injured by unlawful and unfair competition may bring a civil action for relief in any district court of the United States having jurisdiction of the person who has committed such unlawful and unfair competition. Provides that such person who establishes that he has been injured or is likely to be injured, may be granted an injunction, in accordance with the principles of equity, upon his establishing that such injunction is necessary to prevent actual and continuing damage.",2025-09-03T12:51:47Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1476 93-s-1460,93,s,1460,A bill to provide for the distribution of motor-vehicle tires.,Commerce,1973-04-04,1973-04-04,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Metcalf, Lee [D-MT]",MT,D,M000671,0,"Requires new and rebuilt motor-vehicle tires and tubes and material for rebuilding such to be sold in the course of trade or business only by or through independent tire dealers. Sets penalties for violations at a $5,000 fine and/or one year imprisonment.",2025-01-14T18:51:33Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1460 93-s-1415,93,s,1415,A bill to amend the Small Business Act to assist in the financing of small business concerns which are disadvantaged because of certain social or economic considerations not generally applicable to other business enterprises.,Commerce,1973-03-29,1973-03-29,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. Buckley, James L. [R-NY]",NY,R,B001026,15,"Provides that whenever the Small Business Administration determines that action is necessary or desirable to assist small business concerns whose participation in the free enterprise system is hampered because of social or economic considerations not generally applicable to other business enterprises to obtain the equity capital needed for viable and prudently managed business operations, it may guarantee equity investments in such concerns made by investment companies or other qualified investors. States that such guarantee shall be made pursuant to an agreement by the Administration to purchase equity securities evidencing the interest of an investor in such a concern in accordance with terms and conditions prescribed by the Administration subject to specified limitations and restrictions. States that a guarantee agreement entered into under this Act by the Administration shall obligate the Administration to purchase securities covered by the agreement and held by an investor. Provides that the Administration shall fix a uniform fee which it deems reasonable and necessary for any guarantee issued under this Act to be payable at such time and under such conditions as may be determined by the Administration.",2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1415 93-s-1359,93,s,1359,A bill to amend section 9 of title 17 of the United States Code.,Commerce,1973-03-26,1973-03-26,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. McClellan, John L. [D-AR]",AR,D,M000332,2,"Provides that a United States copyright secured to citizens of foreign states shall vest in the author of the work, his executors or administrators, or his voluntary assigns. States that any such copyright shall remain the property of the author, regardless of any law of a foreign state which purports to divest the author of the United States copyright in his work. (Amends 17 U.S.C. 9)",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1359 93-s-1361,93,s,1361,Design Protection Act,Commerce,1973-03-26,1974-09-12,Referred to House Committee on the Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. McClellan, John L. [D-AR]",AR,D,M000332,0,"(LATEST SUMMARY) Design Protection Act - =Title I: General Revision of Copyright Law= - Revises in its entirety, Title 17 of the United States Code, entitled ""Copyrights."" Defines the terms used in such title, including ""anonymous work,"" ""copies,"" ""derivative work,"" and ""publication."" Details the subject matter of copyright: (1) in general; (2) of compilations and derivative works; (3) of works with regard to national origin; and (4) of United States Government works. Enumerates the exclusive rights enjoyed by the owner of a copyright under this title, and the limitations on such exclusive rights, including: (1) fair use; (2) reproduction by libraries and archives; (3) transfer of a particular copy or phonorecord by an owner; (4) specified performances and displays by learning institutions, governmental bodies and churches; (5) secondary transmissions of a primary transmission (including transmission to a controlled group, transmission by cable systems, compulsory licensing for secondary transmission by cable systems, and preemption of other laws and regulations); and (6) ephemeral recordings. States that when a pictorial, graphic, or sculptural work in which copyright subsists under this title is utilized in an original ornamental design of a useful article, by the copyright proprietor or under an express license from him, the design shall be eligible for protection under title III of this Act. Sets forth the scope of exclusive rights in sound recordings. Enumerates the extend of exclusive rights in nondramatic musical works, requiring compulsory licensing for making and distributing phonorecords. Provides for the recordation of coin-operated phonorecord players, the affixation of a certificate, and prescribes the royalty payable under the compulsory license. Provides that this title does not afford to the owner of copyright in a work any lesser or greater rights with respect to the use of the work in conjunction with computers and similar information systems than those afforded to works under the law. States that copyright in work protected under this title vests initially in the author or authors of the work. Provides that ownership of a copyright is distinct from ownership of any material object in which the work is embodied. Prescribes the conditions for termination of transfers and licenses granted by the author and the effect of such termination. States that a transfer of copyright ownership is not valid unless an instrument of conveyance, or a memorandum of the transfer, is in writing and signed by the owner of the rights conveyed or his duly authorized agent. Provides for the recordation of transfers and other documents with the Copyright Office. Directs that on and after January 1, 1975, all rights in the nature of copyright shall be governed exclusively by this title. Retains specified common law rights in enumerated instances. Sets forth the periods for duration of copyrights for: (1) works created on or after January 1, 1975; (2) works created by not published or copyrighted before January 1, 1975; and (3) subsisting copyrights. Directs that whenever a protected work is published in the United States or elsewhere by authority of the copyright owner, a notice of copyright shall be placed on all publicly distributed copies from which the work can be visually perceived. Sets forth the form of such notice. Prescribes the rules governing notice of copyright for phonorecords of sound recordings, publications incorporating United States government works, and contributions to collective works. Details the effect of omission of such notices. Requires the deposit of copyrighted works at the Copyright Office for use of the Library of Congress. Outlines the procedures for registration of copyright claims, stating that registration is a prerequisite to specified remedies for infringement. Provides that anyone who violates any of the exclusive rights of the copyright owner or who imports copies or phonorecords into the United States in violation of this Act is an infringer of the copyright. Enumerates the remedies for infringement, including: (1) injunctions; (2) impounding and disposition of infringing articles; (3) damages and profits; and (4) costs and attorney's fees. Imposes criminal penalties for violations of this Act. Provides that, with specified exceptions, the importation into or public distribution in the United States of copies of work consisting preponderantly of nondramatic literary material that is in the English language and is protected under this title is prohibited unless the portions consisting of such material have been manufactured in the United States on copies or phonorecords acquired abroad. Enumerates the general responsibilities and organization of the Copyright Office in the Library of Congress, including: (1) retention and distribution of articles; (2) preparation, maintenance, public inspection, and searching; and (3) forms publications and fees of the Copyright Office. Creates in the Library of Congress a Copyright Royalty Tribunal to: (1) make determinations concerning the adjustment of the copyright royalty rates to assure that such rates continue to be reasonable; and (2) determine in specified circumstances the distribution of the royalty fees deposited with the Register of Copyrights. Prescribes the procedures, duties, and operations of the Tribunal. Provides that the Public Printer shall sell, under regulations of the Joint Committee on Printing, to persons who may apply, plates from which a Government publication is printed, at a price not to exceed the cost of composition, the metal, and making to the Government, plus 10 percent. States that when letters and other intellectual productions (exclusive of patented material, published works under copyright protection, and unpublished works for which copyright registration has been made) come into the custody or possession of the Administrator of General Services, the United States or its agents are not liable for infringement of copyright or analogous rights arising out of the use of the materials for display, inspection, research, reproduction, or other purposes. =Title II: National Commission on New Technological Uses of Copyrighted Works= - Creates in the Library of Congress a National Commission on New Technological Uses of Copyrighted Works to study, compile and make recommendations on data on: (1) the reproduction and use of copyrighted works of authorship in conjunction with automatic data systems and by various forms of machine reproduction; and (2) the creation of new works by the application or intervention of such automatic systems or machine reproduction. =Title III: Protection of Ornamental Designs of Useful Articles= - Design Protection Act - Defines the terms used in this title, including ""useful article"" as an article which in normal use has an intrinsic utilitarian function that is not merely to portray the appearance of the article or to convey information. Provides that protection under this title shall not be available for a design that is: (1) not original; (2) staple or commonplace (or an insignificant modification thereof), such as a standard geometric figure, familiar symbol, emblem, or motif, or other shape, pattern, or configuration which has become common, prevalent, or ordinary; (3) dictated solely by a utilitarian function of the article that embodies it; or (4) composed of three-dimensional features of shape and surface with respect to men's, women's, and children's apparel. States that the term of protection for such a design shall be five years, with renewal options. Prescribes the requirements of design notice whenever protection for a design is sought under this title. Imposes infringement penalties for making, importing, selling, or distributing of a design protected under this title without consent of the proprietor of the design. Imposes penalties for false marking and false representation under this title. Provides that protection under this title shall not be available for any design that has been made public prior to the effective date of this title (one year after its date of enactment).",2025-09-03T12:51:50Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1361 93-s-1362,93,s,1362,Unfair Competition Act,Commerce,1973-03-26,1973-03-26,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. McClellan, John L. [D-AR]",AR,D,M000332,1,"Unfair Competition Act - Establishes a uniform body of Federal unfair competition law by creating a Federal statutory tort of unfair competition affecting interstate commerce. Establishes Federal jurisdiction over such tort claims within the framework of the Trademark Act of 1946. Gives the Federal district courts jurisdiction to deal with acts which constitute unfair competition because of misrepresentation or misappropriation of goods or services. Provides that all the remedies set forth in the Trademark Act for infringement of unfair competition would be available in respect to acts of unfair competition. Makes any person liable in a civil action for unfair competition who engages in any act, trade practice, or course of conduct, in commerce, which: (1) causes or is likely to cause confusion, mistake, or deception as to the affiliation, connection, or association of such person, or as to the origin, sponsorship, or approval of his goods, services, or vocational activities, or results or is likely to result in passing off the goods, services, or vocational activities which he offers as or for those of any other person, or (2) by a false or misleading representation or omission of material information, either misrepresents his goods, services, vocational activities, or their geographic origin, or (3) results or is likely to result in the wrongful disclosure or appropriation of a trade secret or confidential information, or (4) without being limited to or by the foregoing subsections (1) through (3), otherwise constitutes unfair competition by misrepresentation.",2025-09-03T12:51:50Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1362 93-s-1367,93,s,1367,"A bill relating to the income tax treatment of charitable contributions of copyrights, artistic compositions, or a collection of papers.",Commerce,1973-03-26,1973-03-26,Referred to Senate Committee on Finance.,Senate,"Sen. Church, Frank [D-ID]",ID,D,C000388,0,"Provides that the income tax deduction for a charitable contribution of a copyright, a literary musical, or artistic composition, a letter of memorandum, or similar property by a taxpayer to a charitable organization as defined in the Internal Revenue Code shall be reduced by one-half of the amount computed under the Internal Revenue Code provisions relating to contributions of ordinary income and capital gain property. Requires such a taxpayer to receive from the donee of such property a written statement that the property represents material of historical or artistic significance and that the use by the donee will be related to the purpose constituting the basis for its exemption. Exempts from these provisions, letters and other papers collected by a public official during his term of office. (Amends 26 U.S.C. 170(e))",2024-08-01T18:41:05Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1367 93-s-1321,93,s,1321,Patent Reform Act,Commerce,1973-03-22,1973-03-22,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Hart, Philip A. [D-MI]",MI,D,H000291,0,"Patent Reform Act - Provides for the general reform and revision of the Patent Laws, title 35 of the United States Code.",2025-09-03T12:51:44Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1321 93-s-1196,93,s,1196,A bill to establish an Antitrust Review and Revision Commission.,Commerce,1973-03-14,1973-03-14,Referred to Senate Committee on the Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Javits, Jacob K. [R-NY]",NY,R,J000064,3,"Establishes an Antitrust Review and Revision Commission composed of eight members of Congress, four members of the executive branch, and six experts from the private sector. Provides that the Commission shall study the effects of antitrust laws upon: (1) price levels, product quality and service; (2) employment, productivity, output, investment and profit; (3) concentration of economic power and financial control; (4) foreign trade and international competition; and (5) economic growth. Authorizes the Commission to enter into contracts with Federal and State agencies, private firms, institutions and individuals for the conduct of research and the preparation of reports necessary to the discharge of the Commission's duties. Provides that the Commission shall submit a final report to the President and to the Congress not later than two years after the first meeting of the Commission.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1196 93-s-1167,93,s,1167,Industrial Reorganization Act,Commerce,1973-03-12,1973-03-12,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Hart, Philip A. [D-MI]",MI,D,H000291,1,"Industrial Reorganization Act - Title I: Possession of Monopoly Power - Makes it unlawful for any corporation or two or more corporations, whether by agreement or not, to possess monopoly power in any line of commerce in any section of the country or with foreign nations. Sets forth rebuttable presumptions that monopoly power is possessed by a corporation or corporations. States that in other instances the burden shall lie on the Industrial Reorganization Commission established under this Act to prove the possession of monopoly power. Title II: Industrial Reorganization Commission - Establishes an independent agency to be known as the Industrial Reorganization Commission. Provides that the Commission shall be under the direction and supervision of a Commissioner, who shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for a term of seven and one-half years. Provides that the Commission shall terminate its operations fifteen years after the date of enactment of this Act, and the functions, jurisdiction, powers, and duties of the Commission shall be transferred to the Federal Trade Commission. Provides that the Commission shall study the structure, performance, and control of seven industries: chemicals and drugs, electronic computing and communication equipment, electrical machinery and equipment, energy, iron and steel, motor vehicles, and non-ferrous metals. States that such studies shall be made in order to determine whether or not there are violations of Title I of this Act and also to determine how each industry could be reorganized in order to make competition more effective. Requires the Commission to report to the Congress not later than June 30, in each odd-numbered year with respect to the status of this title, together with such recommendations, including recommendations for legislation, as it deems necessary. Sets forth the powers of the Commission. Provides that any person who is a director or officer of a registered corporation shall file a report under this title with the Commission in such form and at such times as the Commission may require. Specifies penalties for violations of this title. Title III: Establishment of Industrial Reorganization Court - Provides that the President shall appoint, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, a chief judge and fourteen associate judges who shall constitute a court of record known as the United States Industrial Reorganization Court. Declares that such court is established under article III of the Constitution of the United States. Makes provision for single-judge trials; except that three judges may be designated to hear and determine any civil action which the chief judge finds: (1) raises an issue of the constitutionality of an Act of Congress, a proclamation of the President, or an Executive order; or (2) has broad or significant implications in the administration or interpretation of this Act. Provides that the Court shall have original jurisdiction to hear and determine all complaints and proposed orders or reorganizations filed by the Commission under Title I of this Act. Allows any corporation or corporations to, within sixty days from the entry of judgment, file a reorganization. Provides that the Court shall conduct a proceeding to determine whether or not the proposed order or orders of reorganization would restore effective competition. States that the Court shall then enter an order of reorganization to effectuate the purposes of this Act. Provides that appeal from any final order of the Court will lie only to the Supreme Court. Limits the scope of review on appeal to: (1) whether or not the Court proceeded correctly under the provisions of this title; and (2) whether or not the findings of fact of the Court are supported by substantial evidence.",2025-09-03T12:51:38Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1167 93-s-1160,93,s,1160,Consumer Protection Act,Commerce,1973-03-08,1973-03-08,Referred to Senate Committee on Government Operations.,Senate,"Sen. Allen, James B. [D-AL]",AL,D,A000127,5,"Consumer Protection Act - Title I: Consumer Protection Agency - Establishes, as an independent, nonregulatory agency, the Consumer Protection Agency. States that the agency shall be headed by an Administrator who shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for a four year term coterminous with the term of the President. Provides that the Administrator shall in accordance with this Act perform specified functions, including: (1) represent the interests of consumers before Federal agencies and Federal courts; (2) make grants to States and localities to encourage and assist consumer protection programs; (3) receive and transmit complaints from consumers; and (4) conduct, support, and assist research and other information-gathering activities related to the interests of consumers. States the Administrator shall prepare and submit directly to the Congress and the President, not later than April 1 of each year beginning April 1, 1974, an annual report, which shall include an analysis, evaluation, and review of those matters within his jurisdiction. Permits the Administrator to present to responsible officials in any Federal agency proceeding such relevant information in his possession as he deems necessary to enable the Federal agency to give due consideration to the interests of consumers. Permits the Administrator to request the initiation of a proceeding in a Federal agency. Authorizes the Administrator to participate in any State or local agency or court proceeding where the Administrator determines that the result of such proceeding may substantially affect an important interest of consumers and where his participation has been requested by a specified State official. Provides that each Federal agency which is considering any action which may substantially affect an important consumer interest to provide the Administrator with notice at such time as the public is given notice. Provides a procedure by which the Administrator is to transmit a consumer complaint to the Federal, State or local agency which has authority to enforce any relevant law or to take appropriate action. Authorizes the Administrator to conduct, support and assist research, studies, investigations, conferences and surveys concerning the interests of consumers. Sets forth methods of disclosure to the public of the information gathered. Details the general powers and functions of the Agency. Authorizes such appropriations as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act. Title II: Consumer Protection Grants Authorizes the Administrator to make grants to the States or local public agencies to assist in the development of consumer protection plans. Provides that the Federal share of any program shall not exceed 75 percent. Provides that such grants shall be for programs which perform specified tasks. Sets forth qualifications for recipients of such grants. Title III: General Provisions - Sets forth the definition of terms to be used in this Act. States that this Act shall be effective 90 days after enactment or on such earlier date as the President shall prescribe.",2025-09-03T12:51:35Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1160 93-s-1088,93,s,1088,Antitrust Settlement Act,Commerce,1973-03-06,1973-03-06,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Bayh, Birch [D-IN]",IN,D,B000254,0,"Antitrust Settlement Act - Provides that before any court of the United States permits any proposed consent judgement or decree, or other settlement of any suit, action, or proceeding arising under the antitrust laws and brought by or on behalf of the United States, to become final it shall: (1) direct the United States to publicize the terms of the proposed settlement; and (2) withhold decision on whether to permit the proposed consent judgement or decree or other settlement to become final for at least sixty days to allow the public adequate time to comment thereon and the United States and the court adequate time to consider such comments. Requires the Attorney General or his designee to distribute to the court and to the defendant copies of any comment he has received and, if changes of public interest are made in such judgement, decree, or other settlement, a statement that he believes the proposed judgement, decree or other settlement to be consistent with the antitrust laws and to be in the best interests of the United States. Provides that the court shall order that a hearing be held on whether the proposed judgment, decree or other settlement should be allowed to become final unless it finds that there is no substantial controversy concerning the matter. Authorizes the court to award to any person the actual, necessary and responsible costs incurred in preparing and presenting comments pursuant to this Act whenever the court finds it is in the public interest to make such an award.",2025-09-03T12:51:37Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1088 93-s-1098,93,s,1098,Small Business Tax Simplification and Reform Act,Commerce,1973-03-06,1973-03-06,Referred to Senate Committee on Finance.,Senate,"Sen. Bible, Alan [D-NV]",NV,D,B000436,28,"Small Business Tax Simplification and Reform Act - Title I: Tax Simplification Relating to Small Business - Creates a Committee on Tax Simplification for Small Business for the purpose of devoting continued attention to the simplification of the Internal Revenue Code to small business, and the regulations, instructions, procedures, and other publications relating to small business taxation. Provides that the membership of the Committee would include representatives of the Secretary of the Treasury (for policy matters); Internal Revenue Service (for technical matters); Office of Management and Budget (for coordinating the paperwork aspects of IRS forms, in view of the Federal Reports Act) and the Small Business Administration (to express the interests of the small business community). Creates in the Treasury Department an Office of Small Business Analyst, which would be responsible for looking at tax problems primarily from the view of small business and the free enterprise system. Calls upon the Treasury Department to make a comprehensive study of depreciation policies with particular attention to: the impact of legislation; the rapid advances in technology to which small business must adopt; and the practices of other industrialized nations. Calls upon the Treasury to study the entire range of pension, retirement, health, medical, and insurance benefits in the larger context of what both corporations (including large corporate enterprise) and other forms of business are providing for their employees and executives. Authorizes a special study of the differential effect of tax law changes on businesses of different sizes. Title II: Adjustment of Corporate Normal Tax - Effects a progressive reform in the entire corporate tax structure by providing for reductions in normal corporate tax rates based on the corporations earning. Provides that as corporate earnings rise above $1 million per year the normal tax would incline upward to a maximum of 24 percent for corporations earning over $1 billion annually. Title III: Special Provisions to Encourage Establishment of New Small Business Enterprises - Permits eligible new small business corporations an income tax deduction equal to the corporations net operating income, so long as that amount does not exceed $83,333. Allows an income tax deduction to a partnership for its organizational expenses ratably over a period of 60 months. Provides for a bad debt tax deduction for guarantors of obligations of, and lenders to, small business corporations. Title IV: Provisions to Assist Small Business Growth - Increases the additional first-year depreciation limitation for small business property from $10,000 to $20,000. Reinstates the 7 percent investment credit for specified small business property. Provides that corporate manufacturing would be allowed $50,000 worth of qualified investment. Extends the period for use of the loss carryover provisions for small businesses by allowing existing corporations to carry these losses over a ten year period. Raises the earning credit in accordance with the costs of doing business to $150,000. Allows research and development expenses of small businesses to be amortized beginning at the time they are made. Permits a limited number of surtax exemptions (up to 5) in the event members of a family are placed in proprietary positions where they have ownership of at least 50 percent of the stock (or other interest) and full time management of a separately incorporated unit of a family business. Title V: Provisions Relating to Partnerships - Allows the closing of the partnership year for a decedent at any of the following times: (1) normal close of the partnership year if there has been no prior sale, exchange, or liquidation of the partnership interest; (2) the date of any of the above described transactions; or (3) the day after the partner's death. Permits a partner to deduct currently his share of partnership losses in excess of the adjusted basis of his partnership interests, in the event that the partner is unconditionally obligated for his share of such partnership losses. Title VI: Provisions Relating to Subchapter S Corporations - Increases the Subchapter S ""tax-option"" to small business corporations in the following 3 ways: (1) initial shareholders could number 15, rather than the present 10; (2) shareholders in excess of this ceiling who take their stock by reason of heirship would not disqualify election; and (3) after 5 years, the number of permissible shareholders would increase to 25. Provides that the classes of shareholders shall be expanded to include: (1) trusts where stock passes pursuant to a will, and where the trust is used merely to convey the stock to a long term eligible holder within 60 days; (2) trusts where the entire income is taxable to the grantor; and (3) certain small business investment companies. Provides for nondisqualification of a Subchapter S corporation by reason of exceeding the limit of 20 percent passive income in a single year. Provides that the election privilege shall be lost pursuant to this proposal if the limit is exceeded in any 2 of 4 consecutive years. Provides that if the corporation is able to establish that the termination was, in fact, inadvertent and can gain full compliance within 90 days of notification, its Subchapter S status would be preserved for future years. Title VII: Business Development Corporations - Permits State and local development companies to extend long-term financing to non-bankable new enterprises and such companies would be permitted a bad-debt reserve deduction up to 10 percent of outstanding loans. Provides that certain types of business development corporations would be nontaxable upon the condition that the proceeds from such unusual transactions are re-invested within the area of service and no part of these proceeds inures to the benefit of any individual or private institution. Title VIII: Preservation of Small Business Independence - Allows recovery of losses in 1 or 2 quarters to the extent the newly estimated tax for the year is less than the amount already paid in. Disallows interest deductions beyond $500,000 on any loan for small business acquisition purposes. Permits valuation comparisons with any similar closely held corporation whether or not it is listed on an exchange. Changes the standard of ""undue hardship"" (required to qualify for 10-year estate tax installments) to ""hardship"". Directs the Treasury Department to conduct a comprehensive examination of the pressures of income taxes, capital gains tax, reorganization rules, and estate and gift taxes which are causing so many small businesses to sell or merge out of existence rather than continue in independent form.",2025-09-03T12:51:32Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1098 93-s-1113,93,s,1113,A bill to amend the Small Business Act.,Commerce,1973-03-06,1973-03-06,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. Cranston, Alan [D-CA]",CA,D,C000877,0,"Increases the amount of loans, guarantees, and other obligations or committments which may be outstanding at any one time from the Business Loan and Investment Fund under the Small Business Act.",2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1113 93-s-1062,93,s,1062,Flammable Fabrics Act Amendments,Commerce,1973-03-01,1973-03-01,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Schweiker, Richard S. [R-PA]",PA,R,S000159,0,"Flammable Fabrics Act Amendments - Authorizes the Secretary of Commerce to institute proceedings for the development and determination of an appropriate flammability standard or other regulation may be needed to protect the public Provides that the Secretary may exempt any fabric, related material, or product from any such standard or regulation if a person shows that he is subject to, but cannot comply with, the standard or regulation. States that any fabric, related material or product so exempted shall be clearly and conspicously labeled, in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Federal Trade Commission, to indicate: (1) that such fabric, related material, or product does not meet with a standard; (2) that such fabric, related material, or products should not be worn near sources of fire; and (3) the standard from which such fabric, related material, or product has been exempted from. Provides that the manufacturing, importing, selling, or offering for sale, or transporting in commerce of any product, fabric, or related material which has not been certified shall be unlawful and shall constitute an unfair method of competition and an unfair or deceptive act or practice in commerce under the Federal Trade Commission Act. States that certification shall be based on a reasonable testing program conducted by the manufacturer and approved by the Federal Trade Commission. Provides that no certification would be valid unless the Commission had approved the reasonable testing program. Asserts that whoever with knowledge performs an act in violation of various provisions of the Flammable Fabrics Act shall be guilty of a felony and upon conviction shall be fined not more than $10,000 or imprisoned for not more than 3 years, or both. Requires the certification of all products, fabrics, or related material for which flammability standards have been promulgated. Makes it unlawful to furnish false guarantees of compliance with flammability standards applicable to any product, fabric, or related material. Adds a civil penalty provision to the Flammable Fabric Act not to exceed $10,000 for each violation of the Act. Provides that a person shall not be subject to any criminal or civil penalty if he establishes a guarantee received in good faith signed by and containing the name and address of the person by whom the product, fabric, or related material guaranteed was manufactured, and has not by further processing affected the flammability of the fabric and related material or product covered by the guarantee which he recieved. Provides that not later than ninety days after the date of enactment of this Act the Secretary shall submit a report to the Congress setting forth the specific types of fabrics for which new flammability standards should be adopted. Requires such report to include a schedule of the proposed dates for the institution of proceedings by the Secretary for the determination of such standards and to include a special section relating to the need for standards to protect person over 65 years of age. States that not later than six months after the date of enactment of this Act the Secretary shall promulgate standards for children's sleepwear, including any product of wearing apparel such as nightgowns, pajamas, or similar or related items.",2025-09-03T12:51:34Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1062 93-s-1007,93,s,1007,Small Business Joint Export Development Act,Commerce,1973-02-26,1973-02-26,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Pearson, James B. [R-KS]",KS,R,P000166,6,"Small business Joint Export Development Act - Establishes the United States Joint Export Agency. Authorizes the Agency to secure from any department or agency of the United States any information relating to international trade and United States foreign policy necessary to enable it to carry out its duties under this Act. Provides that the Agency shall: (1) foster the development of United States export associations composed of small businesses which have not actively engaged in substantial export sales operations; (2) survey and identify small businesses which possess undeveloped export potential and which are interested in joining with other small businesses in United States export associations in order to develop a joint export operation; (3) obtain operating and other business information from such small businesses and from any other person engaged in exporting in order to provide assistance and advice to such small businesses with respect to the identification of products which have export potential, the combination of products for efficient exportation, and the development of export markets; (4) provide technical assistance and advice and financial support through grants and loans in accordance with the provisions of this Act; (5) provide institutional leadership to bring together small businesses who are interested in entering into joint exporting arrangements through the formation of a United States export assocation and to provide assistance in the formation of such associations; and (6) establish and conduct programs for the development of technical, professional, and managerial skills necessary to the establishment and operation of United States export associations, and for the development of liaison between the Agency, United States export associations, and international financial, investment, and marketing institutions. Provides for the Agency to assist associations of small businesses which have associated for the purpose of securing export advice and assistance in developing the operating agreements necessary to further joint export operations. Authorizes the agency to make technical assistance grants to such associations to finance management seminars and instruction for association members relating to market analysis, export marketing, channels of export distribution, the identification of original market areas for American products, the development of common catalogs and other marketing aids, and such other export information determined by the Agency to be appropriate. Authorizes as a deduction from gross income under the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 a deficit in earnings and profits of an export association covered by this Act. Provides for the apportionment of such loss among the members of the export association. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums for each fiscal year as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.",2025-09-03T12:51:27Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/1007 93-s-976,93,s,976,A bill to amend the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 to improve the administration of that Act with respect to small businesses.,Commerce,1973-02-22,1973-02-22,Referred to Senate Committee on Labor and Public Welfare.,Senate,"Sen. McIntyre, Thomas J. [D-NH]",NH,D,M000486,6,"Provides that the Secretary of Labor shall with respect to the applicability of standards established under the Occupational Safety and Health Act to small business concerns consider: (1) the distinction between small and large business concerns; (2) the applicability of each such standard on an industry-by-industry basis; and (3) where feasible and appropriate on the basis of the type of activity in each such industry, exceptions for small business concerns. Requires the Secretary to establish simplified requirements for small business concerns designed to eliminate unnecessary and duplicative recordkeeping and reporting. Provides that small business concerns shall be given upon request one onsite inspection and no citation shall be issued or penalty assessed against a small business for violation of any standards based on such inspection. Requires the Secretary to make an annual report to the Select Committee on Small Business of the Senate and the House of Representatives on the steps taken to assure that small business concerns are not unintentionally injured economically as a result of standards imposed under such Act.",2025-04-21T12:24:17Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/976 93-s-978,93,s,978,A bill to amend the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 45) to provide that under certain circumstances exclusive territorial arrangements shall not be deemed unlawful.,Commerce,1973-02-22,1973-06-12,Referred to House Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Eastland, James O. [D-MS]",MS,D,E000018,47,"(LATEST SUMMARY) Provides, under the Federal Trade Commission Act, that exclusive territorial arrangements in any trademarked licensing contract and agreement for the manufacture, distribution and sale of a trademarked soft drink product shall not be deemed unlawful, provided: (1) that such product is in substantial and effective competition with products of the same general class manufactured, distributed, and sold by others; (2) the licensee is in substantial and effective competition with vendors of other products of the same general class; and (3) the licensor retains control over the nature and quality of such product in accordance with the provisions of the Trademark Act. Amends 15 U.S.C. 41",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/978 93-s-950,93,s,950,Family Farm Antitrust Act,Commerce,1973-02-21,1973-02-21,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Nelson, Gaylord [D-WI]",WI,D,N000033,8,"Family Farm Antitrust Act - Finds that vertical integration of the agricultural industry by corporations engaged in the processing, distributing and retail industries, and other conglomerate corporations, tends to create monopolies in the agricultural industry and produce unfair competition for family farms, contributing to the decline of rural populations and the consequent crowding of metropolitan centers. Declares it to be the national policy to restore competition to the Agricultural industry and to provide for the continuance of the family farm. Provides that no person engaged in commerce in a business other than farming, whose nonforming business assets exceed $3,000,000 shall engage in farming or the production of agricultural products, or participate in farming by any means of acquisition or control of another person who is engaged in farming. Specifies exceptions including charitable, educational, or nonprofit institutions, and farmer owned and controlled cooperatives. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to acquire at fair market value any property of interest of which a person is required to divest himself under the provisions of this Act, if the person is otherwise unable to divest himself of such property. Authorizes appropriations of such sums as are necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act.",2025-09-03T12:51:38Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/950 93-s-966,93,s,966,Public Health Price Protection Act,Commerce,1973-02-21,1973-02-21,Referred to Senate Committee on Labor and Public Welfare.,Senate,"Sen. Nelson, Gaylord [D-WI]",WI,D,N000033,0,"Title I: Drug Testing and Evaluation - Provides that the Congress finds and declares: (1) that the Federal Government should assume responsibility for the necessary testing of drugs and determine whether such drugs meet the requirements for approval for commercial distribution; and (2) that drug manufacturers, should bear the expense incurred by the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare in conducting such tests. Authorizes the Secretary to establish, staff, equip, and maintain a National Drug Testing and Evaluation Center for the purpose of testing and investigating drugs for which approval is required pursuant to this Act. States that the Center shall be operated and maintained as a part of the Food and Drug Administration, subject to the supervision and control of the Secretary. Establishes a Drug Testing Review Panel to settle disputes between the Secretary and the sponsor of a drug as to: (1) the period of time necessary to develop the necessary data; and (2) the procedures used in the testing and investigating. Provides that such a Panel shall be composed of three members, one to be selected by the Secretary, one by the sponsor and the third to be selected by the first two. Creates a National Drug Testing Evaluation Center Fund which shall be available to the Secretary without fiscal year limitation as a separate fund for the purpose of establishing the Center and for the payment of the testing and investigation of drugs carried out by qualified individuals, organizations, and institutions engaged by the Secretary for such purpose. Provides that this fund shall consist of appropriations made pursuant to this Act and all amounts received by the Secretary as charges and interest. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for the purpose of furnishing initial working capital for the fund. Provides that such sums shall be repayable to the Treasury from charges collected under this title. Provides that this title shall become effective two years after this date of enactment but, to the extent that facilities and funds are available, the Secretary shall conduct tests and investigations on new drugs submitted to him prior to the effective date of this title. Title II: Federal Drug Compendium - Requires the Secretary to prepare and publish in a readable and practicable form and under a distinct and suitable name a drug compendium and to distribute such compendium on a current basis to all practitioners licensed by law to prescribe and administer drugs listed therein. Provides that such compendium shall list all drugs that are lawfully available in the United States and shall also include in such compendium the proprietary names or designations under which a drug listed in the compendium by established name is available and the names of suppliers from whom such drugs may be obtained. Authorizes the Secretary to omit drugs from the compendium if he determines that there is substantial doubt as to the safety of such drugs or compliance with this or other Federal law. Sets forth a procedure for petitioning for changes in the compendium or for preventing the delisting of drugs. Establishes an advisory committee for the purpose of advising the Secretary from time to time on matters pertaining to the compendium. Authorizes the Secretary to require, by order, any person engaged in manufacturing, preparing, compounding, processing, propagating, producing, distributing or importing any drug to furnish to the Secretary any information available to such person and relevant to any matter bearing on which drugs or information relating thereto should be included in the compendium. Provides that in case of refusal or failure to obey such an order, any district court for the judicial district in which the person is found or resides or transacts business shall, upon application by the Secretary, have jurisdiction to issue an order requiring such person to comply with the Secretary's order. Provides that the Secretary shall prescribe fees to be paid to him by persons engaged in the manufacture, preparation, propagation, compounding, processing, or distribution of drugs intended for humans, as he determines to be necessary to defray the cost of the compendium. States that such fees shall be based upon the volume of the drug business done by such persons and such other factors as the Secretary may determine to be relevant. Creates a drug compendium revolving fund which shall be available to the Secretary, without fiscal year limitation, as a revolving fund for the purpose of preparing and keeping current, publishing, and distributing the drug compendium provided for in this Act. Provides that all expenses incurred by the Secretary in carrying out this title, including refunds of overpayments for fees prescribed pursuant to this title and including payments due by reason of remission or mitigation of penalities, shall be paid from the fund. Provides for the waiver of the drug package insert requirement for a drug if such drug is intended and promoted solely for the conditions of use described in the compendium. Title III: Quality Control for Drugs Purchased by the United States or Paid for With Federal Funds Under Federally Supported Programs; Formulary of the United States - Establishes, within the Department of Health, Education and Welfare, a Formulary Committee, a majority of whose members shall be physicians and which shall consist of two officials of such Department designated by the Secretary, and of seven individuals who are of recognized professional standing and distinction in the fields of medicine, pharmacology and pharmacy. Sets forth the terms of office of the members of such Committees. Provides that the Committee shall compile, publish, and make available to all interested persons a Formulary of the United States. States that the Formulary shall contain an alphabetically arranged listing, by establishing the name, of those drugs which the Committee finds are necessary for good medical practice. Provides that the Formulary Committee shall establish such procedures, as may be necessary, to determine the propriety of the inclusion or exclusion, in the Formulary, of any drug, including such data and testing as it may require of a proponent of a drug. Makes provisions for a hearing prior to the final determination by the formulary Committee to remove a drug from the formulary. Declares that no department or agency of the government shall purchase any drug not listed in the Formulary and shall not reimburse or otherwise pay, under any program administered by it, for any drug not listed in the Formulary. Title IV: Certification of Drugs Other Than Insulin and Antibiotics - Gives the Secretary authority to require batch-by-batch certification of all drugs when needed. States that regulations providing for such certification shall contain such provisions as are necessary to carry out the purposes of this section, including provisions prescribing: (1) standards of identity and of strength, quality, and purity; (2) tests and methods of assay to determine compliance with such standards; (3) effective periods for certificates, and other conditions under which they shall cease to be effective as to certified batches and as to portions thereof; (4) administration and procedure; and (5) such fees, specified in such regulations, as are necessary to provide, equip, and maintain an adequate certification service. Title V: Regulation of Sample Drugs - Provides for the labeling and control of sample drugs. Prohibits the distribution of sample drugs except in response to a prior written request of a licensed practioner specifically requesting such sample drugs. Title VI: Miscellaneous Amendments _ Provides that (1) potentially dangerous drugs will be labeled with the appropriate warning; (2) labeling of drugs will be required so that all active ingredients will be clearly labeled; (3) no drug salesman shall make any oral presentation regarding any drug until he has placed before the physician or pharmacist a Food and Drug Administration approved document about the drug; and (4) the Secretary shall approve all advertising in advance that appears in either the electronic media, or in any publication or advertising circular, for any drug. Title VII: Public Health Price Protection Act - Provides that whenever it appears to the Surgeon General that, in the case of any drug, (1) its continued availability by reason of its general use by the medical profession may be in the public interest, (2) the usage and price levels of such drugs are such that the volume of commerce therein may not be insubstantial and (3) either there are fewer than four producers of such drug in the United States or the average price of such drug to the consumer is five times the direct cost to the producer, he shall immediately so certify to the Federal Trade Commission. Provides that if the Federal Trade Commission finds that the existence of a patent relating to the manufacture, use, or sale of such drug has constituted a substantial contributing factor to the high price of such drug, it shall institute a public rulemaking proceeding to determine whether such patent should be subject to mandatory licencing. Specifies the formulation of rules by the Commission to determine a proper price and licensing procedure. Provides civil penalties for violation of any mandatory licensing rule. Provides for judicial review of such rules.",2025-09-03T12:51:35Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/966 93-s-840,93,s,840,Fairness in Franchising Act,Commerce,1973-02-08,1973-02-08,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Hart, Philip A. [D-MI]",MI,D,H000291,0,"Fairness in Franchising Act - Provides that it shall be a violation of this Act for any franchisor engaged in commerce, directly or through any officer, to terminate, cancel, or fail to renew a franchise for any reason whatsoever without having first given written notice of such termination, cancellation, or intent not to renew to the franchisee at least ninety days in advance of such termination cancellation, or failure to renew. Provides that it shall be a violation of this Act for any franchisor engaged in commerce to engage directly or indirectly in methods of competition with any franchisee that constitutes unfair methods of competition within the meaning of the Federal Trade Commission Act. Requires actions brought pursuant to this Act to be commenced within 2 years after the cause of action accrued or it shall be forever barred.",2025-09-03T12:51:30Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/840 93-s-804,93,s,804,"A bill to amend the Small Business Act to consolidate and expand the coverage of certain provisions authorizing assistance to small business concerns in financing structural, operational, or other changes to meet standards required pursuant to Federal or State laws.",Commerce,1973-02-07,1973-02-07,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. Bible, Alan [D-NV]",NV,D,B000436,35,"Authorizes assistance, under the Small Business Act, to small business concerns in financing structural, operational, or other changes to meet standards required pursuant to Federal or State laws. (Amends 15 U.S.C. 636(b))",2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/804 93-s-805,93,s,805,National Institute of Marketing and Health Act,Commerce,1973-02-07,1973-02-07,Referred to Senate Committee on Commerce.,Senate,"Sen. Moss, Frank E. [D-UT]",UT,D,M001033,0,"National Institute of Marketing and Health Act - Sets forth the policy and purpose of this Act. Establishes within the Federal Trade Commission an agency to be known as the National Institute of Marketing and Health. Provides that the Institute shall be headed by a Director, who shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for a term of 6 years. Provides that he be under the general supervision of the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission and be responsible for carrying out the functions of the Institute and shall have authority and control over all personnel and activities of the Insitute. Provides that a Deputy Director of the Institute shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for a term of 6 years. Gives the Deputy Director such duties and such powers as the Director may prescribe and authorizes the Deputy Director to act for, and exercise the powers of, the Director during his absence or disability. Directs the Institute to: (1) undertake, on its own initiative, research projects concerning the impact of advertising and marketing upon society, particularly the psychological and social effects of advertising and marketing techniques upon the consumer; (2) undertake, at the request of any agency represented on the Advisory Council, research projects concerning the impact of advertising and marketing upon society; (3) collect, analyze, and disseminate to the public, relevant information on behavior research relating to advertising and marketing practices; and (4) prepare at least annually, and at such other times as the Director may deem appropriate, a report concerning its activities together with such recommendations, including recommendations for additional legislation, as the Director deems advisable. Provides that the Director shall, whenever feasible, enter into contracts with public or private educational or research institutions for the purpose of undertaking any particular study or research project authorized by this Act. Grants the Institute necessary powers to carry out its duties. Establishes in the Institute a National Advisory Council on Marketing and Health to be composed of twelve members appointed by the Director. Directs the Council to advise the Director of the Institute with respect to appropriate research projects within the jurisdiction of each agency represented on the Council to be conducted by the Institute and to establish criteria for the priority of such projects. Authorizes appropriations in each fiscal year 1973-76 to carry out the purposes of this Act.",2025-09-03T12:51:28Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/805 93-s-770,93,s,770,Consumers' Information and Counsel Act,Commerce,1973-02-06,1973-02-06,Referred to Senate Committee on Government Operations.,Senate,"Sen. Metcalf, Lee [D-MT]",MT,D,M000671,0,"Consumers' Information and Counsel Act - Title I: Consumers' Counsel For Regulated Services Establishes, within the executive branch of the Government, an independent agency to be known as the Office of Consumers' Counsel for Regulated Services. Provides that such agency shall be headed by a Consumers' Counsel appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for a term of five years. Sets forth the functions of the Consumers' Counsel. Provides that such functions shall include: (1) the promulgation of rules to carry out the function of the Office; (2) representing the interest of consumers before Federal or State agencies or courts in accordance with this Act; (3) disseminating information to the public which he considers desirable for the protection of consumers; (4) making grants to State and local governments which are involved in specified consumer interest programs; and (5) preparing model laws in the area of consumer protection. Title II: Public information and Reports - Requires every regulated company to furnish to the Consumers' Counsel specified information and such other information as the counsel may deem necessary to obtain, compile, publish and desseminate to inform consumers of regulated companies. Provides penalties for the violation of any of the provisions or regulations issued under this Act. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Requires Federal agencies to make full use of automatic data processing in preparing the information required under this Act. Authorizes appropriations to carry out the provisions of the Act.",2025-09-03T12:51:28Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/770 93-s-780,93,s,780,A bill to amend the Clayton Act by adding a new section to prohibit sales below cost for the purpose of destroying competition or eliminating a competitor.,Commerce,1973-02-06,1973-02-06,Referred to Senate Committee on Judiciary.,Senate,"Sen. Sparkman, John J. [D-AL]",AL,D,S000701,41,"Makes it unlawful, under the Clayton Act, for any person engaged in commerce to sell, offer to sell, or contract to sell goods below cost for the purpose of destroying competition or eliminating a competion.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/780 93-s-782,93,s,782,Antitrust Procedures and Penalties Act,Commerce,1973-02-06,1974-12-21,Public law 93-528.,Senate,"Sen. Tunney, John V. [D-CA]",CA,D,T000410,4,"(LATEST SUMMARY) Antitrust Procedures and Penalties Act - Provides that any consent decree proposed by the United States must be filed with the court in which the case is pending and simultaneously published in the Federal Register at least sixty days prior to the effective date of the decree. States that simultaneously with such filing the Government must file a ""competitive impact statement"" containing the following: (1) the nature and purpose of the proceeding; (2) a description of the practices or events giving rise to the alleged violation of the antitrust laws; (3) an explanation of the proposed judgment, the relief to be obtained thereby, the anticipated effects on competition of that relief and an explanation of any special circumstances giving rise to the proposed judgment or any provisions contained therein; (4) the remedies available to potential private plaintiffs damaged by the alleged violation in the event that the judgment is entered; (5) a description of the procedures available for modification of the judgment; and (6) a description and evaluation of alternatives actually considered to the proposed judgment and the anticipated effects on competition of such alternatives. Lengthens the present thirty-day public comment period to sixty days. Provides that the sixty-day period may be shortened by order of court but only upon a showing that extraordinary circumstances require it and that such a shortened time period would not be adverse to the public interest. Provides that the court shall make a determination on whether the entry of a proposed consent judgment is in the public interest as defined by law. Lists the following criteria to assist the court in making a determination: (1) the public impact of the judgment, including the termination of alleged violations, provisions for enforcement and modification, duration of relief sought, anticipated effects of alternative remedies actually considered, and any other considerations bearing upon the adequacy of judgment; and (2) the public impact of entry of the judgment upon the public generally and persons alleging specific injury from the violations set forth in the complaint, including the consideration of the public benefits to be derived from a determination of the issues at trial. Provides that not later than ten days following the filing of any proposed consent judgment as required by this Act each defendant must file with the district court a description of any and all oral communications by or on behalf of the defendant with any officer or employee of the United States concerning or relevant to the consent judgment or the subject matter thereof. Provides that proceedings before the district court in connection with the decree pursuant to this Act and public impact statements filed pursuant to the Act are not admissible against any defendant in any action or proceeding brought by any other party against that defendant under the antitrust laws or by the United States under Section 4A of the Clayton Act, nor do they constitute a basis for introduction of the decree as prima facie evidence against such defendant in any such action or proceeding. Increases the penalties for criminal violations of the antitrust laws from $50,000 to $100,000 for individuals and $1,000,000 for corporations. Sets forth procedures for expediting antitrust cases which are of general public importance. Sets forth procedures for appeal to the Supreme Court of antitrust cases of general public importance.",2025-07-21T19:32:26Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/782 93-s-707,93,s,707,Consumer Protection Organization Act,Commerce,1973-02-01,1974-09-24,"Placed on calendar in Senate under ""Subjects on the Table"".",Senate,"Sen. Ribicoff, Abraham A. [D-CT]",CT,D,R000191,33,"(LATEST SUMMARY) Consumer Protection Agency Act - Declares that it is the purpose of this Act to protect and promote the interests of the people of the United States as consumers of goods and services, which are made available to them through commerce or which affect commerce, by establishing an independent Consumer Protection Agency. Establishes an independent nonregulatory agency of the United States to be known as the Consumer Protection Agency. Provides that the Agency shall be headed by an Administrator appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, for a term of four years coterminous with the term of the President. Sets forth the functions of the Administrator, including: (1) to represent the interest of consumers before Federal agencies and Federal courts in accordance with this Act; (2) to receive and transmit complaints from consumers; (3) to conduct, support, and assist research and other information-gathering activities related to the interests of consumers; (4) to disseminate to the public information of concern to consumers; (5) to publish, in language readily understandable by consumers, a consumer register which shall set forth the time, place and subject matters of actions by Congress, Federal agencies, and Federal courts, and other information useful to consumers; (6) to encourage private enterprise in the promotion and protection of the interests of consumers; (7) to encourage the application and use of new technology, including patents and inventions, for the promotion and protection of the interests of consumers; (8) to encourage the adoption and expansion of effective consumer education programs; (9) to inform the appropriate committees and Members of Congress of the activities of the Agency and testify, when asked or on his own initiative, before the committees of Congress on matters affecting the interests of consumers; (10) to encourage meaningful participation by consumers in the activities of the Agency; (11) to encourage the development of informal dispute settlement procedures involving consumers; and (12) to perform such other related activities as he deemed necessary for the effective fulfillment of his duties and functions. Authorizes the Administrator to secure judicial review of any Federal agency action reviewable under law. Provides that each Federal agency considering any action which may substantially affect an important interest of consumers shall, upon request by the Administrator, notify him of any such proceeding or activity at such time as public notice is given. Requires that whenever the Administrator receives a signed complaint which discloses an apparent violation of law relating to consumers or a commercial, trade, or other practice which is detrimental to an interest of consumers, he shall transmit such complaint to the appropriate Federal, State, or local agency. Requires the Administrator to maintain a file of such complaints for public inspection. States that the Administrator shall conduct, support, and assist research, studies, investigations, conferences, and surveys concerning the interests of consumers. Limits the exemption of financial institutions from interagency disclosure requirements. Authorizes the Administrator to disclose to the public information he determines appropriate in carrying out the purposes of this Act. Requires the Administrator to submit an annual report to the President and Congress. Specifies the areas to be covered in such report. Grants the Administrator authority to intervene and participate in the proceedings of Federal agencies if he determines that such proceedings may substantially affect an important interest of consumers. Requires each Federal agency to review its rules of procedure of general applicability, and, after consultation with the Administrator, issue any additional rules which may be necessary to provide for the Administrator's orderly intervention or participation in accordance with this Act in its proceedings and activities which may substantially affect the interests of consumers. Provides that all officers, employees, assets, liabilities, contracts, property, and records as are determined by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to be employed, held, or used primarily in connection with the functions of the Consumer Product Information Coordinating Center in the General Services Administration are to be transferred to the Agency and all functions of the Administrator of General Services administered through the Consumer Product Information Coordinating Center are to be transferred to the Agency. Requires that, after reviewing its statutory authority and rules of procedure, relevant agency and judicial decisions, and other relevant provisions of law, each Federal agency shall issue appropriate interpretations, guidelines, standards, or criteria, and rules of procedure, to the extent that such rules are appropriate and are not already in effect, relating to the rights of individuals who may be affected by agency action to: (1) petition the agency for action; (2) receive notice of agency proceedings; (3) file official complaints (if appropriate) with the agency; (4) obtain information from the agency; and (5) participate in agency proceedings for the purpose of representing their interests. Provides that, in the administration and implementation of this Act, due consideration shall be given to the unique problems of small businesses so as not to discriminate or cause unnecessary hardship. Authorizes to be appropriated to carry out the provisions of this Act not to exceed $15,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1975, not to exceed $20,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1976, and not to exceed $25,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1977. Directs the Comptroller General of the United States to audit, review, and evaluate the implementation of the provisions of this Act by the Consumer Protection Agency.",2025-09-03T12:51:22Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/707 93-s-715,93,s,715,"A bill to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to regulate the amounts of lead and cadmium which may be released from glazed ceramic or enamel dinnerware.",Commerce,1973-02-01,1973-02-01,Referred to Senate Committee on Labor and Public Welfare.,Senate,"Sen. Schweiker, Richard S. [R-PA]",PA,R,S000159,0,"Provides for the regulation of the amounts of lead and cadmium which may be released from glazed ceramic or enamel dinnerware under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. Provides for a testing procedure to insure compliance with standards set out in the Act. Requires manufacturers and importers to label dinnerware in accordance with regulations under the Act. Requires the Food and Drug Administration to undertake an educational program to alert the public to the dangers of lead and cadmium released from dinnerware.",2025-04-21T12:24:17Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/715 93-s-356,93,s,356,Magnuson-Moss Warranty—Federal Trade Commission Improvement Act,Commerce,1973-01-12,1975-01-04,Public law 93-637.,Senate,"Sen. Magnuson, Warren G. [D-WA]",WA,D,M000053,2,"(LATEST SUMMARY) Magnuson-Moss Warranty-Federal Trade Commission Improvement Act - =Title I: Consumer Product Warranties= - Provides that any supplier warranting a consumer product to a consumer in writing shall fully and conspicuously disclose in simple and readily understood language the terms and conditions of such warranty pursuant to any rules issued by the Federal Trade Commission. States that the Commission shall prescribe rules requiring that the terms of any warranty on a consumer product be made available to the consumer (or prospective consumer) prior to the sale of the product to him. Allows the Commission to prescribe rules for determining the manner and form in which information with respect to any written warranty of a consumer product shall be clearly and conspicuously presented or displayed so as not to mislead the reasonable, average consumer, when such information is contained in advertising, labeling, point-of-sale material, or other representations in writing. States that no warrantor of a consumer product may, with specified exceptions, condition his warranty of such product on the consumer's using, in connection with such product, any article or service which is identified by brand, trade, or corporate name. States that a written warranty incorporating the minimum Federal standards specified in this Act shall be conspicuously designated a ""full"" warranty, while a written warranty not incorporating Federal minimum standards shall be conspicuously designated a ""limited"" warranty. Enumerates Federal minimum standards for consumer product warranties. Relieves warrantors of specified duties under this Act if they can show that the defect was caused by damage (not resulting from the defect) while in the possession of the consumer, or by unreasonable use. Defines the conditions under which a consumer who is damaged by the failure of a supplier, warrantor, or service contractor to comply with obligations under this title or under a written or implied warranty may bring suit for damages or other legal or equitable remedies. Provides that no supplier may disclaim or modify any implied warranty to a consumer with respect to a consumer product if: (1) such supplier makes any written warranty to the consumer with respect to such consumer product; or (2) at the time of sale, or within 90 days thereafter, such supplier enters into a service contract with the consumer which applies to such consumer product. States that it is the policy of the Congress to encourage warrantors to establish procedures whereby consumer disputes are fairly and expeditiously settled through informal dispute settlement mechanisms. States that no claim shall be cognizable in a suit brought by a consumer damaged by the failure of a supplier to comply with any obligation under this title: (1) unless each individual claim exceeds the sum or value of $25; (2) unless the matter in controversy exceeds the sum or value of $50,000 (exclusive of interests and costs) computed on the basis of all claims to be determined in this suit; and (3) if the action is brought as a class action, unless the number of named plaintiffs equals or exceeds 100. =Title II: Federal Trade Commission Improvements= - Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission to make rules defining with specificity acts or practices which are unfair or deceptive and which are within the scope of this Act. Sets forth procedures to be followed in such rulemaking, including the requirement of a public transcript. Allows for judicial review of any rules established pursuant to this Act. Authorizes the Commission to conduct investigations of persons and partnerships, as well as corporations. States that in order to prevent unfair or deceptive acts or practices in or affecting commerce by banks, each agency specified in this title shall establish a separate division of consumer affairs which shall receive and take appropriate action upon complaints with respect to such acts or practices by banks subject to its jurisdiction. Prescribes conditions in which the Commission may commence, defend in, or intervene in civil actions involving the Federal Trade Commission Act. Establishes civil penalties which the Commission may seek to impose for violations of this Act. Provides that if any person or partnership violates any rule under this Act respecting unfair or deceptive acts or practices, then the Commission may commence civil action against them for legal and equitable relief. Authorizes to be appropriated to the Federal Trade Commission to carry out its functions, powers, and duties specified amounts for fiscal years 1975, 1976, and 1977.",2025-01-14T18:51:33Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/356 93-s-201,93,s,201,A bill to amend the internal revenue code of 1954 to relieve employers of 50 or less employees from the requirement of paying or depositing certain employment taxes more often that once each quarter.,Commerce,1973-01-04,1973-01-04,Referred to Senate Committee on Finance.,Senate,"Sen. Taft, Robert, Jr. [R-OH]",OH,R,T000010,0,"Provides, under the Internal Revenue Code, that in the case of an employer with 50 or fewer employees, old-age, survivors, and disability insurance, and Federal income tax withholding payments shall not be required more than once quarterly. (Adds 26 U.S.C. 6302 (d))",2024-08-01T18:40:16Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/201 93-s-44,93,s,44,A bill to amend the Small Business Act to increase the availability of management counseling to small business concerns.,Commerce,1973-01-04,1973-01-04,"Referred to Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs.",Senate,"Sen. Dole, Robert J. [R-KS]",KS,R,D000401,8,"States that in providing technical and managerial aids to small-business concerns through various public and non-profit private groups, under the Small Business Act, the Small Business Administration shall: (1) rent for the use of such an individual or group such office facilities, parking space, and related materials and services as would not otherwise be available for the purpose and as the Administration deems appropriate; (2) pay, as the Administration deems appropriate, the expenses of disseminating through advertising media information to small business concerns respecting the availability of such individuals or groups; (3) pay, as the Administration deems appropriate, the expense of placing in telephone directories an independent listing of the telephone numbers of such individuals or groups; and (4) reimburse any such individual for the cost incurred in making any telephone call from his home in furtherance of the purposes of such Act. (Amends 15 U.S.C. 637(b)(1)(B))",2025-01-14T18:20:21Z,https://www.congress.gov/bill/93rd-congress/senate-bill/44