system of the United States and the maintenance of the facilities of
the system in the most modern state of adequacy to serve the needs
of the United States in times of peace and in national defense.
§ 121. National Disability Employment Awareness Month
(a) DESIGNATION.—October is National Disability Employment Aware-
ness Month.
(b) CEREMONIES.—Appropriate ceremonies shall be held throughout the
United States during National Disability Employment Awareness Month to
enlist public support for, and interest in, the employment of workers with
disabilities who are otherwise qualified. Governors, mayors, heads of other
governmental entities, and interested organizations and individuals are in-
vited to participate in the ceremonies.
(c) PROCLAMATION.—The President is requested to issue each year a
suitable proclamation.
§ 122. National Flag Week
The President is requested to issue each year a proclamation—
(1) designating the week in which June 14 falls as National Flag
Week; and
(2) calling on citizens to display the flag of the United States during
National Flag Week.
§ 123. National Forest Products Week
(a) DESIGNATION.—The week beginning on the 3d Sunday in October is
National Forest Products Week.
(b) PROCLAMATION.—The President is requested to issue each year a
proclamation calling on the people of the United States to observe National
Forest Products Week with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
§ 124. National Freedom Day
The President is requested to issue each year a proclamation designating
February 1 as National Freedom Day to commemorate the signing by Abra-
ham Lincoln on February 1, 1865, of the joint resolution adopted by the
Senate and the House of Representatives that proposed the 13th amend-
ment to the Constitution.
§ 125. National Grandparents Day
The President is requested to issue each year a proclamation—
(1) designating the first Sunday in September after Labor Day as
National Grandparents Day; and
(2) calling on the people of the United States and interested groups
and organizations to observe National Grandparents Day with appro-
priate ceremonies and activities.
§ 126. National Hispanic Heritage Month
The President is requested to issue each year a proclamation—
(1) designating September 15–October 15 as National Hispanic Her-
itage Month; and
(2) calling on the people of the United States, especially the edu-
cational community, to observe National Hispanic Heritage Month with
appropriate ceremonies and activities.
§ 127. National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day
(a) DESIGNATION.—July 27 of each year until 2003 is National Korean
War Veterans Armistice Day.
(b) PROCLAMATION.—The President is requested to issue each year a
proclamation calling on—
(1) the people of the United States to observe National Korean War
Veterans Armistice Day with appropriate ceremonies and activities; and
(2) all departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United
States Government, and interested organizations, groups, and individ-
uals, to fly the flag of the United States at halfstaff on July 27 of each
year until 2003 in honor of the individuals who died as a result of their
service in Korea.
§ 128. National Maritime Day
(a) DESIGNATION.—May 22 is National Maritime Day.
(b) PROCLAMATION.—The President is requested to issue each year a
proclamation calling on—
(1) the people of the United States to observe National Maritime
Day by displaying the flag of the United States at their homes or other
suitable places; and
(2) United States Government officials to display the flag on all Gov-
ernment buildings on National Maritime Day.
§ 129. National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
(a) DESIGNATION.—December 7 is National Pearl Harbor Remembrance
Day.
(b) PROCLAMATION.—The President is requested to issue each year a
proclamation calling on—
(1) the people of the United States to observe National Pearl Harbor
Remembrance Day with appropriate ceremonies and activities; and
(2) all departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United
States Government, and interested organizations, groups, and individ-
uals, to fly the flag of the United States at halfstaff each December
7 in honor of the individuals who died as a result of their service at
Pearl Harbor.
§ 130. National Poison Prevention Week
The President is requested to issue each year a proclamation designating
the 3d week in March as National Poison Prevention Week to aid in encour-
aging the people of the United States to learn of the dangers of accidental
poisoning and to take preventive measures that are warranted by the seri-
ousness of the danger.
§ 131. National Safe Boating Week
The President is requested to issue each year a proclamation designating
the 7-day period ending on the last Friday before Memorial Day as National
Safe Boating Week.
§ 132. National School Lunch Week
(a) DESIGNATION.—The week beginning on the 2d Sunday in October is
National School Lunch Week.
(b) PROCLAMATION.—The President is requested to issue each year a
proclamation calling on the people of the United States to observe National
School Lunch Week with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
§ 133. National Transportation Week
The President is requested to issue each year a proclamation—
(1) designating the week that includes the 3d Friday of May as Na-
tional Transportation Week; and
(2) inviting the people of the United States to observe National
Transportation Week with appropriate ceremonies and activities as a
tribute to the men and women who, night and day, move goods and
individuals throughout the United States.
§ 134. Pan American Aviation Day
The President is requested to issue each year a proclamation—
(1) designating December 17 as Pan American Aviation Day; and
(2) calling on all officials of the United States Government, the chief
executive offices of the States, territories, and possessions of the Unit-
ed States, and all citizens to participate in the observance of Pan
American Aviation Day to further, and stimulate interest in, aviation
in the American countries as an important stimulus to the further de-
velopment of more rapid communications and a cultural development
between the countries of the Western Hemisphere.
§ 135. Parents’ Day
(a) DESIGNATION.—The 4th Sunday in July is Parents’ Day.
(b) RECOGNITION.—All private citizens, organizations, and Federal,
State, and local governmental and legislative entities are encouraged to rec-
ognize Parents’ Day through proclamations, activities, and educational ef-
forts in furtherance of recognizing, uplifting, and supporting the role of par-
ents in bringing up their children.
§ 136. Peace Officers Memorial Day
The President is requested to issue each year a proclamation—
(1) designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day in honor
of Federal, State, and local officers killed or disabled in the line of
duty;
(2) directing United States Government officials to display the flag
of the United States at halfstaff on all Government buildings on Peace
Officers Memorial Day, as provided by section 7(m) of title 4; and
(3) inviting State and local governments and the people of the Unit-
ed States to observe Peace Officers Memorial Day with appropriate
ceremonies and activities, including the display of the flag at halfstaff.
§ 137. Police Week
The President is requested to issue each year a proclamation—
(1) designating the week in which May 15 occurs as Police Week in
recognition of the service given by men and women who stand guard
to protect the people of the United States through law enforcement;
and
(2) inviting State and local governments and the people of the Unit-
ed States to observe Police Week with appropriate ceremonies and ac-
tivities, including the display of the flag at halfstaff.
§ 138. Save Your Vision Week
The President is requested to issue each year a proclamation—
(1) designating the first week in March as Save Your Vision Week;
(2) inviting the governors and mayors of State and local govern-
ments to issue proclamations designating the first week in March as
Save Your Vision Week;
(3) inviting the communications media, health care professions, and
other agencies and individuals concerned with programs for the im-
provement of vision to unite during Save Your Vision Week in public
activities to convince the people of the United States of the importance
of vision to their welfare and the welfare of the United States; and
(4) urging the media, health care professions, and other agencies and
individuals to support programs to improve and protect the vision of
the people of the United States.
§ 139. Steelmark Month
(a) DESIGNATION.—May is Steelmark Month.
(b) PURPOSE.—Steelmark Month recognizes the tremendous contribution
made by the steel industry in the United States to national security and
defense.
(c) PROCLAMATION.—The President is requested to issue a proclamation
calling on the people of the United States to observe Steelmark Month with
appropriate ceremonies and activities.
§ 140. Stephen Foster Memorial Day
The President is requested to issue each year a proclamation—
(1) designating January 13 as Stephen Foster Memorial Day; and
(2) calling on the people of the United States to observe Stephen
Foster Memorial Day with appropriate ceremonies, pilgrimages to his
shrines, and musical programs featuring his compositions.
§ 141. Thomas Jefferson’s birthday
The President shall issue each year a proclamation—
(1) designating April 13 as Thomas Jefferson’s birthday;
(2) calling on officials of the United States Government to display
the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on April 13;
and
(3) inviting the people of the United States to observe April 13 in
schools and churches, or other suitable places, with appropriate cere-
monies in commemoration of Thomas Jefferson’s birthday.
§ 142. White Cane Safety Day
The President is requested to issue each year a proclamation—
(1) designating October 15 as White Cane Safety Day; and
(2) calling on the people of the United States to observe White Cane
Safety Day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
§ 143. Wright Brothers Day
(a) DESIGNATION.—December 17 is Wright Brothers Day.
(b) PURPOSE.—Wright Brothers Day commemorates the first successful
flights in a heavier than air, mechanically propelled airplane, that were
made by Orville and Wilbur Wright on December 17, 1903, near Kitty
Hawk, North Carolina.
(c) PROCLAMATION.—The President is requested to issue each year a
proclamation inviting the people of the United States to observe Wright
Brothers Day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
CHAPTER 3—NATIONAL ANTHEM, MOTTO, FLORAL
EMBLEM, AND MARCH
Sec.
301.
National anthem.
302.
National motto.
303.
National floral emblem.
304.
National march.
§ 301. National anthem
(a) DESIGNATION.—The composition consisting of the words and music
known as the Star-Spangled Banner is the national anthem.
(b) CONDUCT DURING PLAYING.—During a rendition of the national an-
them—
(1) when the flag is displayed—
(A) all present except those in uniform should stand at atten-
tion facing the flag with the right hand over the heart;
(B) men not in uniform should remove their headdress with
their right hand and hold the headdress at the left shoulder, the
hand being over the heart; and
(C) individuals in uniform should give the military salute at the
first note of the anthem and maintain that position until the last
note; and
(2) when the flag is not displayed, all present should face toward the
music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were dis-
played.
§ 302. National motto
‘‘In God we trust’’ is the national motto.
§ 303. National floral emblem
The flower commonly known as the rose is the national floral emblem.
§ 304. National march
The composition by John Philip Sousa entitled ‘‘The Stars and Stripes
Forever’’ is the national march.
CHAPTER 5—PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURAL CEREMONIES
Sec.
501.
Definitions.
502.
Regulations, licenses, and registration tags.
503.
Use of reservations, grounds, and public spaces.
504.
Installation and removal of electrical facilities.
505.
Extension of wires along parade routes.
506.
Duration of regulations and licenses and publication of regulations.
507.
Application to other property.
508.
Enforcement.
509.
Penalty.
510.
Authorization of appropriations.
§ 501. Definitions
For purposes of this chapter—
(1) ‘‘Inaugural Committee’’ means the committee appointed by the
President-elect to be in charge of the Presidential inaugural ceremony
and functions and activities connected with the ceremony.
(2) ‘‘inaugural period’’ means the period that includes the day on
which the Presidential inaugural ceremony is held, the 5 calendar days
immediately preceding that day, and the 4 calendar days immediately
following that day.
§ 502. Regulations, licenses, and registration tags
(a) REGULATIONS AND LICENSES.—For each inaugural period, the Coun-
cil of the District of Columbia shall—
(1) prescribe reasonable regulations necessary to preserve public
order and protect life, health, and property;
(2) prescribe special regulations related to the standing, movement,
and operation of vehicles; and
(3) grant special licenses to peddlers and vendors to sell merchandise
in places the Council considers proper, subject to conditions and fees
for the licenses the Council considers proper.
(b) REGISTRATION TAGS.—The Mayor of the District of Columbia may
issue, for any motor vehicle made available for the use of the Inaugural
Committee, special registration tags, valid for not more than 90 days, de-
signed to celebrate the inauguration of the President and Vice President.
§ 503. Use of reservations, grounds, and public spaces
(a) PERMIT FOR USE.—With the approval of the officer having jurisdic-
tion over any of the Federal reservations or grounds in the District of Co-
lumbia, the Secretary of the Interior may grant to the Inaugural Committee
a permit to use the reservations or grounds during the inaugural period, in-
cluding a reasonable time before and after the inaugural period. The Mayor
of the District of Columbia may grant a similar permit to use public space
under the Mayor’s jurisdiction. Each permit granted under this subsection
is subject to conditions the grantor of the permit prescribes.
(b) REVIEWING STANDS AND COMMERCIAL STANDS AND STRUCTURES.—
A reviewing stand or a stand or structure for the sale of merchandise, food,
or drink may be built on public grounds in the District of Columbia only
if approved by the Inaugural Committee and by the Secretary or the Mayor,
as appropriate.
(c) RESTORATION AFTER INAUGURAL PERIOD.—After the inaugural pe-
riod, the reservation, ground, or public space occupied by a stand or struc-
ture shall be restored promptly to its prior condition.
(d) INDEMNIFICATION.—The Inaugural Committee shall indemnify and
save harmless the District of Columbia and the appropriate department,
agency, or instrumentality of the United States Government against any
loss or damage to, and against any liability arising from the use of, the res-
ervation, ground, or public space, by the Inaugural Committee or a licensee
of the Inaugural Committee.
§ 504. Installation and removal of electrical facilities
(a) INSTALLATION.—The Mayor of the District of Columbia may allow
the Inaugural Committee to install suitable overhead conductors and elec-
trical facilities, with adequate supports. The official in charge of a park or
reservation in the District of Columbia in which it is necessary to place
wires shall supervise the placing and removal of those wires.
(b) REMOVAL.—The conductors and supports shall be removed not later
than 5 days after the end of the inaugural period.
(c) INDEMNIFICATION.—The United States Government and the District
of Columbia may not incur any expense or damage from the installation,
operation, or removal of a temporary overhead conductor or electrical facil-
ity. The Inaugural Committee shall indemnify and hold harmless the Dis-
trict of Columbia and the appropriate department, agency, or instrumental-
ity of the Government against any loss or damage, and against any liability
arising, from any act of the Inaugural Committee or any agent, licensee,
servant, or employee of the Inaugural Committee in connection with the in-
stallation, operation, or removal of a temporary overhead conductor or elec-
trical facility.
§ 505. Extension of wires along parade routes
The Mayor of the District of Columbia, the Secretary of the Interior, and
the Inaugural Committee may allow communications companies to extend
overhead wires to places along a parade route that are considered conven-
ient for use in connection with the parade and other inaugural purposes.
The wires shall be removed not later than 10 days after the inaugural pe-
riod ends.
§ 506. Duration of regulations and licenses and publication
of regulations
Regulations prescribed and licenses authorized under this chapter are ef-
fective only during the inaugural period. The regulations shall be published
in at least one daily newspaper published in the District of Columbia. A
penalty prescribed for violating such a regulation may not be enforced until
5 days after publication.
§ 507. Application to other property
This chapter does not apply to the United States Capitol Buildings or
Grounds or other property under the jurisdiction of Congress or a commit-
tee, commission, or officer of Congress. A service or facility authorized by
or under this chapter is available for the property on request or approval
of the joint committee of the Senate and House of Representatives ap-
pointed by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of
Representatives to arrange for the inauguration of the President-elect and
the Vice President-elect.
§ 508. Enforcement
The Mayor of the District of Columbia, or other official having jurisdic-
tion in the premises, shall enforce this chapter, take necessary precautions
to protect the public, and ensure that the pavement of any street, sidewalk,
avenue, or alley disturbed or damaged is restored to its prior condition.
§ 509. Penalty
A person violating a regulation prescribed under this chapter shall be
fined under title 18 or imprisoned for not more than 30 days. A separate
violation occurs under this section for each day the violation continues.
§ 510. Authorization of appropriations
(a) AUTHORIZATION.—Necessary amounts are authorized to be appro-
priated—
(1) to enable the Mayor of the District of Columbia to provide addi-
tional municipal services in the District of Columbia during the inau-
gural period, including—
(A) employment of personal services without regard to chapters
33 and 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of title 5;
(B) travel expenses of enforcement personnel, including
sanitarians, from other jurisdictions;
(C) the hiring of the means of transportation;
(D) meals for policemen, firemen, and other municipal employ-
ees;
(E) the cost of removing and relocating streetcar loading plat-
forms, construction, rent, maintenance, and expenses incident to
the operation of temporary public comfort stations, first-aid sta-
tions, and information booths; and
(F) other incidental expenses in the discretion of the Mayor;
and
(2) to enable the Secretary of the Interior to provide meals for the
members of the United States Park Police during the inaugural period.
(b) PAYMENT.—Amounts appropriated under—
(1) subsection (a)(1) of this section are payable in the same way as
other appropriations for the expenses of the District of Columbia; and
(2) subsection (a)(2) of this section are payable in the same way as
other appropriations for the expenses of the Department of the Inte-
rior.
CHAPTER 7—FEDERAL PARTICIPATION IN CARL
GARNER FEDERAL LANDS CLEANUP DAY
Sec.
701.
Findings.
702.
Definition.
703.
Duties of Federal land management agency.
704.
Activities.
§ 701. Findings
Congress finds that—
(1) Federal lands, parks, recreation areas, and waterways provide
recreational opportunities for millions of Americans each year;
(2) Federal lands administered by Federal land management agen-
cies contain valuable wildlife, scenery, natural and historic features,
and other resources which may be damaged by litter and misuse;
(3) it is in the best interest of the United States and its citizens to
maintain and preserve the beauty, safety, and availability of these Fed-
eral lands;
(4) these Federal land management agencies have been designated
as the caretakers of these Federal lands and are responsible for main-
taining and preserving those areas and facilities;
(5) there is great value in volunteer involvement in maintaining and
preserving Federal lands for recreational use;
(6) the Federal land management agencies should be concerned with
promoting a sense of pride and ownership among citizens toward these
lands;
(7) the use of citizen volunteers in a national cleanup effort promotes
these goals and encourages the thoughtful use of these Federal lands
and facilities;
(8) the positive impact of annual cleanup events held at various
recreation sites has already been proven by steadily declining levels of
litter at these sites; and
(9) a national program for cleaning and maintaining Federal lands
using volunteers will save millions of tax dollars.
§ 702. Definition
For purposes of this chapter, ‘‘Federal land management agency’’ in-
cludes—
(1) the Forest Service of the Department of Agriculture;
(2) the Bureau of Land Management of the Department of the Inte-
rior;
(3) the National Park Service of the Department of the Interior;
(4) the Fish and Wildlife Service of the Department of the Interior;
(5) the Bureau of Reclamation of the Department of the Interior;
and
(6) the Army Corps of Engineers.
§ 703. Duties of Federal land management agency
To observe Carl Garner Federal Lands Cleanup Day at the Federal level,
each Federal land management agency shall organize, coordinate, and par-
ticipate with citizen volunteers and State and local authorities in cleaning
and providing for the maintenance of Federal public land, recreation areas,
and waterways within the jurisdiction of the agency.
§ 704. Activities
In cooperation with appropriate State and local government authorities,
each Federal land management agency shall plan for and carry out activities
on Carl Garner Federal Lands Cleanup Day that—
(1) encourage continuing public and private sector cooperation in
preserving the beauty and safety of areas within the jurisdiction of the
agency;
(2) increase citizens’ sense of ownership and community pride in
those areas;
(3) reduce litter on Federal lands, along trails and waterways, and
within those areas; and
(4) maintain and improve trails, recreation areas, waterways, and fa-
cilities.
CHAPTER 9—MISCELLANEOUS
Sec.
901.
Service flag and service lapel button.
902.
National League of Families POW/MIA Flag.
§ 901. Service flag and service lapel button
(a) INDIVIDUALS ENTITLED TO DISPLAY SERVICE FLAG.—A service flag
approved by the Secretary of Defense may be displayed in a window of the
place of residence of individuals who are members of the immediate family
of an individual serving in the armed forces of the United States during
any period of war or hostilities in which the armed forces of the United
States are engaged.
(b) INDIVIDUALS ENTITLED TO DISPLAY SERVICE LAPEL BUTTON.—A
service lapel button approved by the Secretary may be worn by members
of the immediate family of an individual serving in the armed forces of the
United States during any period of war or hostilities in which the armed
forces of the United States are engaged.
(c) LICENSE TO MANUFACTURE AND SELL SERVICE FLAGS AND SERV-
ICE LAPEL BUTTONS.—Any person may apply to the Secretary for a license
to manufacture and sell the approved service flag, or the approved service
lapel button, or both. Any person that manufactures a service flag or service
lapel button without having first obtained a license, or otherwise violates
this section is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of
not more than $1,000.
(d) REGULATIONS.—The Secretary may prescribe regulations necessary
to carry out this section.
§ 902. National League of Families POW/MIA Flag
(a) DESIGNATION.—The National League of Families POW/MIA flag is
designated as the symbol of our Nation’s concern and commitment to resolv-
ing as fully as possible the fates of Americans still prisoner, missing, and
unaccounted for in Southeast Asia, thus ending the uncertainty for their
families and the Nation.
(b) DISPLAY.—The flag shall be displayed—
(1) at each national cemetery and at the National Vietnam Veterans
Memorial each year on Memorial Day and Veterans Day and on any
day designated by law as National POW/MIA Recognition Day; and
(2) on, or on the grounds of, the buildings containing the primary
offices of the Secretaries of State, Defense, and Veterans Affairs, and
the Director of the Selective Service System on any day designated by
law as National POW/MIA Recognition Day.
(c) TERMINATION OF FLAG DISPLAY REQUIREMENT.—Subsection (b) of
this section ceases to apply when the President decides that the fullest pos-
sible accounting has been made of all members of the armed forces and ci-
vilian employees of the United States Government who have been identified
as prisoners of war or missing in action in Southeast Asia.
PART B—UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT ORGANIZA-
TIONS INVOLVED WITH OBSERVANCES AND CERE-
MONIES
CHAPTER 21—AMERICAN BATTLE MONUMENTS
COMMISSION
Sec.
2101.
Membership.
2102.
Employment of personnel.
2103.
Administrative.
2104.
Military cemeteries in foreign countries.
2105.
Monuments built by the United States Government.
2106.
War memorials not built by the United States Government.
2107.
National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.
2108.
Pacific War Memorial and other historical and memorial sites on Corregidor.
2109.
Foreign Currency Fluctuations Account.
2110.
Claims against the Commission.
2111.
Presidential duties and powers.
2112.
Care and maintenance of Surrender Tree site.
§ 2101. Membership
(a) COMPOSITION AND TERMS.—The American Battle Monuments Com-
mission has not more than 11 members appointed by the President. The
President also shall appoint one officer of the Regular Army to serve as sec-
retary of the Commission. The members and secretary serve at the pleasure
of the President. The President shall fill any vacancies that occur. Notwith-
standing any other law, members of the armed forces may be appointed
members of the Commission.
(b) PAY AND EXPENSES.—The members of the Commission serve without
compensation. However, the members of the Commission may receive, from
an amount appropriated to carry out this chapter or acquired by another
authorized way—
(1) their actual expenses related to the work of the Commission;
(2) when in a travel status outside the continental United States, a
per diem at the rate authorized to be paid for members of the uni-
formed services under section 405 of title 37, instead of subsistence;
and
(3) when in a travel status in the continental United States, a per
diem at the rate authorized to be paid under sections 5702 and 5703
of title 5, instead of subsistence.
(c) EXPENSES OF OFFICERS OF ARMED FORCES SERVING ON COMMIS-
SION.—An officer of the armed forces serving as a member or as secretary
of the Commission may be reimbursed for expenses when traveling on busi-
ness of the Commission in the same way as civilian members of the Com-
mission.
§ 2102. Employment of personnel
(a) GENERAL.—Within the limits of an appropriation made to employ
personnel, the American Battle Monuments Commission may employ per-
sonnel necessary to carry out this chapter. To ensure adequate care and
maintenance of cemeteries, monuments, and memorials, the Commission,
subject to the availability of appropriations, shall employ—
(1) at least 50 individuals in the competitive service (as defined in
section 2102 of title 5), of whom at least 43 shall be assigned to duty
in foreign countries where the cemeteries, monuments, and memorials
are located; and
(2) at least 348 individuals who are citizens of the countries where
the cemeteries, monuments, and memorials are located.
(b) DETAILED PERSONNEL.—On request of the Commission, the heads
of departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States Gov-
ernment may make available to the Commission their personnel and facili-
ties to assist in carrying out this chapter, and may expend for that purpose
amounts appropriated to the department, agency, and instrumentality. The
Commission shall reimburse the department, agency, or instrumentality for
the pay and allowances of designated personnel.
(c) STATION ALLOWANCE FOR OFFICERS ASSIGNED TO THE COMMIS-
SION.—For officers of the armed forces assigned to the Commission, the
same station allowance shall be authorized for serving at foreign stations
as the Secretary of the Army has authorized for officers of the Army.
(d) CITIZENSHIP REQUIREMENT.—An individual may be employed as the
superintendent, or as an assistant superintendent, of a cemetery operated
by the Commission only if the individual is a citizen of the United States.
§ 2103. Administrative
(a) GENERAL AUTHORITY.—Subject to appropriations made to carry out
this chapter, the American Battle Monuments Commission may—
(1) acquire land or an interest in land in a foreign country to carry
out the purposes of this chapter, or an executive order conferring du-
ties and powers on the Commission, without submission to the Attorney
General under section 355 of the Revised Statutes (40 U.S.C. 255);
(2) maintain, repair, and operate motor-propelled passenger-carrying
vehicles and other property that another department, agency, or instru-
mentality of the United States Government provides to the Commis-
sion;
(3) establish offices in the District of Columbia and elsewhere in or
outside the United States;
(4) rent office and garage space, which may be paid for in advance,
in foreign countries; and
(5) 
procure 
printing, 
binding, 
engraving, 
lithographing,
photographing, and typewriting, including the publication of informa-
tion on United States activities, battlefields, memorials, and cemeteries
with respect to which the Commission may exercise any duties and
powers.
(b) DISPOSITION OF LAND.—Under conditions and in the manner the
Commission decides is proper, the Commission may dispose of land or an
interest in land in a foreign country that the Commission acquires in con-
nection with its work.
(c) CONTRACTING OUT.—Notwithstanding the requirements of existing
laws or regulations, the Commission, under conditions the Commission de-
cides are necessary and proper, may contract for work, supplies, materials,
and equipment outside or for use outside the United States and engage the
services of architects and other technical and professional personnel.
(d) DELEGATION.—Under conditions the Commission may prescribe, the
Commission may delegate to its Chairman, secretary, or officials in charge
of any of its offices any of its authority it considers necessary and proper.
(e) AUTHORITY TO RECEIVE STATE, LOCAL, OR PRIVATE AMOUNTS.—
The Commission may receive State, local, or private amounts to carry out
this chapter. The Commission shall deposit the amounts with the Treasurer
of the United States. The Treasurer shall keep the amounts in separate ac-
counts and shall disburse the amounts on vouchers approved by the Chair-
man.
(f) LIMITATION ON USE OF CONTRIBUTIONS.—The Commission may not
obligate, withdraw, or expend amounts received as contributions before
March 1, 1998.
(g) STATEMENTS TO PRESIDENT.—The Commission shall transmit to the
President on October 1 of each year a statement of all its financial and
other transactions during the prior fiscal year.
(h) FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND AUDITS.—(1) The Commission shall
have a system of financial controls to enable the Commission to comply with
the requirements of paragraph (2) of this subsection and with section
2106(d)(4) of this title.
(2) The Commission shall—
(A) by March 1 of each year (beginning with 1998)—
(i) prepare a financial statement which covers all accounts and
associated activities of the Commission for the prior fiscal year
and is consistent with the requirements of section 3515 of title 31;
and
(ii) submit the financial statement, together with a narrative
summary, to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate
and House of Representatives; and
(B) obtain an audit by the Comptroller General of each financial
statement prepared under subparagraph (A) of this paragraph, which
shall be conducted in accordance with applicable generally accepted
government auditing standards and shall be in lieu of any audit other-
wise required by law.
(i) DISPOSITION OF RECORDS AND ARCHIVES.—When no longer required
by the Commission, the records and archives of the Commission shall be de-
posited with the National Archives in accordance with section 2107 of title
44.
(j) SEAL.—The Commission shall have a seal that shall be judicially no-
ticed.
(k) DISBURSEMENTS OUTSIDE CONTINENTAL UNITED STATES.—Dis-
bursements for expenditures outside the continental United States may be
made by a special disbursing agent designated by the Commission under
regulations it prescribes.
§ 2104. Military cemeteries in foreign countries
When, as a result of combat operations, the armed forces establishes mili-
tary cemeteries in zones of operations outside the United States and the ter-
ritories and possessions of the United States, the American Battle Monu-
ments Commission and the Secretary of the Army, immediately on the ces-
sation of hostilities, shall decide which of the cemeteries will become perma-
nent cemeteries or, if they decide it is desirable, shall select new sites for
the cemeteries at any other location. The Commission is solely responsible
for the design and construction of the permanent cemeteries, and of all
buildings, plantings, headstones, and other permanent improvements inci-
dental to the cemeteries, except that—
(1) the armed forces are responsible for maintaining the permanent
cemeteries until the Commission declares its readiness to assume the
authorized administrative duties and powers;
(2) all construction undertaken by the armed forces in establishing
and maintaining the cemetery prior to its transfer to the Commission
shall be nonpermanent;
(3) burials and reburials by the armed forces shall be carried out in
accordance with plans prepared by the Commission; and
(4) the armed forces have the right to re-enter a cemetery trans-
ferred to the Commission to exhume or reinter a body if they decide
it is necessary.
§ 2105. Monuments built by the United States Government
(a) MEMORIALS.—The American Battle Monuments Commission shall
prepare plans and estimates to build suitable memorials commemorating the
service of American armed forces, and shall build and maintain memorials
in the United States and, as the Commission decides, at any place outside
the United States where the armed forces served after April 5, 1917.
(b) ARCHITECTURE AND ART.—The Commission shall build and maintain
works of architecture and art in United States cemeteries located outside
the United States and the territories and possessions of the United States
that are permanent cemeteries. The Secretary of Defense shall maintain
works of architecture and art built by the Commission in cemeteries in the
United States and the territories and possessions of the United States.
(c) CONTROL AND SUPERVISION OF MATERIALS, DESIGN, AND BUILD-
ING.—(1) The Commission shall control the materials and design and pre-
scribe regulations for, and supervise the building of, all memorial monu-
ments and buildings in United States cemeteries located outside the United
States and the territories and possessions of the United States.
(2) The Commission shall control the design and prescribe regulations for
the building of all memorial monuments and buildings commemorating the
service of American armed forces that are built in a foreign country or polit-
ical division of the foreign country that authorizes the Commission to carry
out those duties and powers.
(d) APPROVAL BY NATIONAL COMMISSION OF FINE ARTS.—A design for
a memorial must be approved by the National Commission of Fine Arts be-
fore the Commission can accept it.
§ 2106. War memorials not built by the United States Gov-
ernment
(a) COOPERATION WITH OTHERS.—The American Battle Monuments
Commission may cooperate with citizens of the United States, States, mu-
nicipalities, or associations desiring to build war memorials outside the con-
tinental limits of the United States in the way the Commission decides. An
administrative agency of the United States Government may give assistance
to build the memorial only if a plan for the memorial has been approved
under this chapter.
(b) CONTROL, ADMINISTRATION, AND MAINTENANCE OF WAR MEMORI-
ALS.—(1) The Commission may assume responsibility for the control, ad-
ministration, and maintenance of any war memorial built outside the United
States by a citizen of the United States, a State, a political subdivision of
a State, a governmental authority (except a department, agency, or instru-
mentality of the United States Government), a foreign agency, or a private
association to commemorate the services of any of the armed forces in hos-
tilities occurring since April 6, 1917, if—
(A) the memorial is not built on the territory of the applicable
former enemy; and
(B) the sponsors of the memorial consent to the Commission assum-
ing those responsibilities and transfer to the Commission all their
rights and interests in the memorial.
(2) If reasonable effort fails to locate the sponsors of a memorial, the
Commission may assume responsibility for the memorial under this sub-
section by agreement with the appropriate foreign authorities. A decision of
the Commission to assume responsibility for a war memorial under this sub-
section is final.
(3) Sponsors of a war memorial for which the Commission assumes re-
sponsibility under this subsection may transfer amounts accumulated to
maintain and repair the memorial to the Commission for use in carrying
out this chapter. Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, the
Commission shall deposit transferred amounts as provided in section
2103(e) of this title.
(c) ARRANGEMENTS FOR REPAIR OR LONG-TERM MAINTENANCE OF ME-
MORIALS.—In assuming responsibility for a war memorial under subsection
(b)(1) or (2) of this section, the Commission may arrange with the sponsors
of the memorial to provide for repair or long-term maintenance of the me-
morial. An amount transferred to the Commission for the purpose of this
subsection shall be deposited by the Commission in the fund established
under subsection (d) of this section.
(d) FUND FOR ARRANGEMENTS FOR REPAIR OR LONG-TERM MAINTE-
NANCE OF MEMORIALS.—(1) There is a fund in the Treasury that is avail-
able to the Commission for expenses of repair and long-term maintenance
of memorials for which the Commission has made arrangements under sub-
section (c) of this section. The fund consists of—
(A) amounts deposited into, and interest and proceeds credited to,
the fund under paragraph (2) of this subsection; and
(B) obligations obtained under paragraph (3) of this subsection.
(2) The Commission shall deposit into the fund the amounts that are ac-
cepted under subsection (c) of this section. The Secretary of the Treasury
shall credit to the fund the interest on, and the proceeds from the sale or
redemption of, obligations held in the fund.
(3) The Secretary shall invest any part of the fund that the Commission
decides is not required to meet current expenses. Each investment shall be
made in an interest-bearing obligation of the United States Government, or
an obligation that has its principal and interest guaranteed by the Govern-
ment, that the Commission decides has a maturity suitable for the fund.
(4) The Commission shall separately account for each amount deposited
in and expended from the fund for each war memorial for which an arrange-
ment for repair or long term maintenance is made under subsection (c) of
this section.
(e) DEMOLITION OF WAR MEMORIAL BUILT IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY
AND DISPOSITION OF SITE.—The Commission may take necessary action to
demolish any war memorial built outside the United States by a citizen of
the United States, a State, a political subdivision of a State, a governmental
authority (except a department, agency, or instrumentality of the United
States Government), a foreign agency, or a private association and to dis-
pose of the site of the memorial in a way the Commission decides is proper,
if—
(1) the appropriate foreign authorities agree to the demolition; and
(2)(A) the sponsor of the memorial consents to the demolition; or
(B) the memorial has fallen into disrepair and a reasonable effort
by the Commission has failed—
(i) to persuade the sponsor to maintain the memorial at a
standard acceptable to the Commission; or
(ii) to locate the sponsor.
§ 2107. National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific
With the consent of the Secretary of the Army, the American Battle
Monuments Commission may build works of architecture and art in the Na-
tional Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.
§ 2108. Pacific War Memorial and other historical and me-
morial sites on Corregidor
(a) GENERAL.—After an agreement is made between the government of
the Republic of the Philippines and the United States Government, the
American Battle Monuments Commission shall restore, operate, and main-
tain the Pacific War Memorial and other historical and memorial sites on
Corregidor.
(b) PERSONNEL.—The Commission may employ necessary personnel to
carry out this section.
(c) USE OF OTHER DEPARTMENTS, AGENCIES, AND INSTRUMENTAL-
ITIES.—Departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States
Government may assist the Commission, on a reimbursable basis, in carry-
ing out this section.
(d) AUTHORITY TO SOLICIT CONTRIBUTIONS.—To carry out this section,
the Commission may solicit and accept private contributions and shall de-
posit the contributions in the fund established by subsection (f) of this sec-
tion.
(e) USE OF PRIVATE AMOUNTS.—The Commission shall carry out this
section with private amounts except to the extent amounts are appropriated
under subsection (g) of this section.
(f) FUND.—(1) There is a fund in the Treasury that is available to the
Commission only to carry out this section. The fund consists of—
(A) amounts deposited into, and interest and proceeds credited to,
the fund under paragraph (2) of this subsection; and
(B) obligations obtained under paragraph (3) of this subsection.
(2) The Chairman of the Commission shall deposit into the fund the
amounts that are accepted under subsection (d) of this section. The Sec-
retary of the Treasury shall credit to the fund the interest on, and the pro-
ceeds from the sale or redemption of, obligations held in the fund.
(3) The Secretary shall invest any part of the fund that the Chairman
decides is not required to meet current expenses. Each investment shall be
made in an interest-bearing obligation of the United States Government, or
an obligation that has its principal and interest guaranteed by the Govern-
ment, that the Chairman decides has a maturity suitable for the fund.
(4) Amounts in the fund exceeding the cost of carrying out this section,
as decided by the Chairman, shall be deposited in the Treasury as mis-
cellaneous receipts to reimburse the United States Government for amounts
appropriated under subsection (g) of this section.
(g) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.—There are authorized to be
appropriated—
(1) $6,000,000 for site preparation, design, planning, construction,
and associated administrative costs for the restoration of the Memorial
and other historical and memorial sites referred to in subsection (a) of
this section; and
(2) amounts necessary to operate and maintain the Memorial and
those other historical and memorial sites.
§ 2109. Foreign Currency Fluctuations Account
(a) ESTABLISHMENT AND PURPOSE.—There is an account in the Treas-
ury known as the ‘‘Foreign Currency Fluctuations, American Battle Monu-
ments Commission, Account’’. The Account shall be used to provide
amounts, in addition to amounts appropriated for salaries and expenses of
the Commission, to pay the cost of salaries and expenses that exceeds the
amount appropriated for salaries and expenses because of fluctuations in
currency exchange rates of foreign countries occurring after a budget re-
quest for the Commission is submitted to Congress. The Account may not
be used for any other purpose.
(b) INCREASE IN PERMISSIBLE OBLIGATIONS OF AMOUNTS.—A provision
of law limiting the amounts the Commission may obligate in a fiscal year
shall be increased to the extent necessary to reflect fluctuations in exchange
rates from those used in preparing the budget submission.
(c) TRANSFERRED AMOUNTS.—(1) Amounts in the Account may be
transferred to amounts appropriated for salaries and expenses of the Com-
mission. Transferred amounts shall be merged with, and are available for
the same time period as, the appropriation to which they are applied.
(2) Amounts transferred from the Account may be transferred back—
(A) if the amounts are not needed to pay obligations incurred be-
cause of fluctuations in currency exchange rates of foreign countries in
the appropriation to which the amounts were originally transferred; or
(B) because of subsequent favorable fluctuations in the rates or be-
cause other amounts are, or become, available to pay the obligations.
(3) Amounts transferred to an appropriation under this subsection may
not be transferred back to the Account after the end of the 2d fiscal year
after the fiscal year in which the appropriation was available for obligation.
(d) RECORDING OF OBLIGATIONS AND FLUCTUATIONS IN EXCHANGE
RATES.—An obligation of the Commission payable in the currency of a for-
eign country may be recorded as an obligation based on exchange rates used
in preparing a budget submission. A change reflecting fluctuations in ex-
change rates may be recorded as a disbursement is made.
(e) UNOBLIGATED BALANCES.—The unobligated balance of an appropria-
tion for salaries and expenses may be transferred to the Account not later
than the end of the 2d fiscal year following the fiscal year for which the
appropriation was made. The unobligated balance shall be merged with, and
be available for the same period and purposes as, the Account.
(f) ANNUAL REPORT.—The Commission each year shall submit to the ap-
propriate committees of Congress a report on amounts transferred under
this section.
(g) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.—There is authorized to be ap-
propriated $3,000,000 to the Account.
§ 2110. Claims against the Commission
A claim against the American Battle Monuments Commission that is
similar to a claim described in section 2734 of title 10, that is based on
damage to, or loss or destruction of, property, or personal injury or death
of an individual, and that is caused by the negligent or wrongful act or
omission of an officer or civilian employee of the Commission acting within
the scope of the officer’s or employee’s office or employment, may be settled,
decided, and paid as provided in section 2734 for the settlement of Army
claims. However, the Secretary of the Army may appoint an officer or em-
ployee of the Commission to a claims commission or as an officer to approve
settlements of claims made by the claims commission. All payments in set-
tlement of a claim shall be made out of appropriations made to carry out
this chapter.
§ 2111. Presidential duties and powers
(a) ARRANGEMENTS WITH FOREIGN COUNTRIES.—The President is re-
quested to make the necessary arrangements with the proper authorities of
the appropriate foreign countries to enable the American Battle Monuments
Commission to carry out this chapter.
(b) TRANSFER OF ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES AND POWERS AND SUP-
PLIES, MATERIAL, AND EQUIPMENT TO COMMISSION.—(1) The President
by executive order may transfer to the Commission—
(A) the same administrative duties and powers related to a perma-
nent military cemetery located outside the United States and the terri-
tories and possessions of the United States that were transferred to the
Commission by Executive Order 6614, February 26, 1934, and Execu-
tive Order 10057, May 14, 1949, as amended by Executive Order
10087, December 3, 1949; and
(B) supplies, material, and equipment located in the permanent mili-
tary cemetery or in a military depot overseas that—
(i) the Department of Defense does not need; and
(ii) the Commission requests to carry out the duties and powers
specified in clause (A) of this paragraph.
(2) After a transfer under this subsection, the Commission shall maintain
the cemetery and all improvements in it.
§ 2112. Care and maintenance of Surrender Tree site
The American Battle Monuments Commission is responsible for the care
and maintenance of the Surrender Tree site in Santiago, Cuba.
CHAPTER 23—MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. FEDERAL
HOLIDAY COMMISSION
Sec.
2301.
Congressional findings.
2302.
Establishment, purposes, and meetings.
2303.
Membership.
2304.
Director and staff.
2305.
Assistance and cooperation of departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the Unit-
ed States Government.
2306.
Donations.
2307.
Restriction on use of amounts appropriated or donated.
2308.
Accounting procedures.
2309.
Annual report.
2310.
Authorization of appropriations.
2311.
Ending effective date.
§ 2301. Congressional findings
Congress finds that—
(1) January 20, 1986, marked the first observance of the Federal
legal holiday, established by Public Law 98–144 (97 Stat. 917), honor-
ing the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.;
(2) the holiday should serve as a time for Americans to reflect on
the principles of racial equality and nonviolent social change espoused
by Martin Luther King, Jr.; and
(3) it is appropriate for the United States Government to coordinate
efforts with Americans of diverse backgrounds and with private organi-
zations in the observance of the Federal legal holiday honoring Martin
Luther King, Jr.
§ 2302. Establishment, purposes, and meetings
(a) ESTABLISHMENT.—There is the Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal
Holiday Commission.
(b) PURPOSES.—The purposes of the Commission are—
(1) to encourage appropriate ceremonies and activities, including
service opportunities, throughout the United States related to the ob-
servance of the Federal legal holiday honoring Martin Luther King,
Jr., that occurs on the 3d Monday in January each year; and
(2) to provide to Federal, State and local governments, and private
organizations advice and assistance related to observing the holiday.
(c) MEETINGS.—The Commission meets at the call of the chairperson.
§ 2303. Membership
(a) COMPOSITION.—(1) The Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal Holiday
Commission is composed of—
(A) 4 officers from the executive branch, appointed by the President;
(B) 4 Members of the House of Representatives, appointed by the
Speaker of the House of Representatives in consultation with the mi-
nority leader of the House of Representatives;
(C) 4 Senators, appointed by the President pro tempore of the Sen-
ate in consultation with the majority and minority leaders of the Sen-
ate;
(D) Coretta Scott King and 2 other members of the family surviving
Martin Luther King, Jr., appointed by the family;
(E) 2 individuals representing the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center
for Non-Violent Social Change (a not-for-profit organization incor-
porated in the State of Georgia), appointed by the organization;
(F) 23 individuals appointed by the members of the Commission ap-
pointed under paragraph (1)(A)–(E) of this subsection from among in-
dividuals representing diverse interest groups, including individuals rep-
resenting labor, business, civil rights, and religious groups, and enter-
tainers; and
(G) the chief executive officer of the Corporation for National and
Community Service, appointed under section 193 of the National and
Community Service Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12651c).
(2) Individuals appointed under paragraph (1)(F) of this subsection may
not be officers or employees of the United States Government or Members
of Congress.
(b) POLITICAL PARTY MEMBERSHIP.—Not more than half the members
of the Commission appointed under each of subsection (a)(1)(B), (C), (E),
and (F) of this section may be members of the same political party.
(c) APPOINTMENT AND TERMS OF OFFICE.—(1) Except as provided in
paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, members of the Commission shall
be appointed not later than June 1 of each year and serve for terms of one
year. A vacancy under this paragraph shall be filled in the manner the origi-
nal appointment was made.
(2) Coretta Scott King serves as a member for life. A vacancy under this
paragraph shall be filled by a member of the family surviving Martin Luther
King, Jr., and who is not already a member of the Commission. The individ-
ual shall be appointed by the family and serves as a member of the Commis-
sion at the discretion of the family.
(3) The 2 members of the Commission appointed as members of the fam-
ily surviving Martin Luther King, Jr., serve as members of the Commission
at the discretion of the family.
(d) POWERS NOT AFFECTED BY VACANCY.—A vacancy in the Commis-
sion does not affect the powers of the Commission.
(e) PAY AND EXPENSES.—Members of the Commission serve without pay.
Subject to the availability of sufficient amounts, a member is entitled to ex-
penses in the same way as provided under section 5703 of title 5.
§ 2304. Director and staff
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal Holiday Commission may appoint
a director and a staff of not more than 5 individuals, without regard to the
provisions of title 5 governing appointments in the competitive service. Sub-
ject to the availability of sufficient amounts, the Commission shall fix the
pay of the director and staff, except that the director shall be paid at a
rate that is not more than the rate of basic pay for level IV of the Executive
Schedule under section 5315 of title 5, and staff members shall be paid at
a rate that is not more than the maximum rate of basic pay payable for
grade GS–13 of the General Schedule.
§ 2305. Assistance and cooperation of departments, agencies,
and instrumentalities of the United States Govern-
ment
(a) REQUEST FOR ASSISTANCE.—When requested by the Martin Luther
King, Jr. Federal Holiday Commission, the head of a department, agency,
or instrumentality of the United States Government may detail, on a non-
reimbursable basis, any personnel of the department, agency, or instrumen-
tality to the Commission to assist it in carrying out its duties and powers
under this chapter. An individual detailed under this subsection for 365
days (continuously or intermittently) subsequently may not be detailed to
the Commission.
(b) COOPERATION.—The head of each department, agency, and instru-
mentality may cooperate with and assist the Commission in carrying out its
duties and powers under this chapter.
(c) RESTRICTIONS.—In carrying out its duties and powers under this
chapter, the Commission may not make any expenditures, or receive or use
office space, personnel, or any other assistance authorized under this sec-
tion, for training activities to direct or encourage—
(1) the organization or carrying out of a campaign to protest social
conditions; and
(2) any form of civil disobedience.
§ 2306. Donations
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal Holiday Commission may encour-
age the participation of, and accept, use, and dispose of donations of money,
property, and personal services from, individuals and public and private or-
ganizations to assist the Commission in carrying out its duties and powers
under this chapter.
§ 2307. Restriction on use of amounts appropriated or do-
nated
Amounts appropriated or donated to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal
Holiday Commission may not be used to buy first class air travel or first
class hotel accommodations.
§ 2308. Accounting procedures
(a) ACCOUNTING SYSTEM.—The Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal Holi-
day Commission shall follow a comprehensive basis of accounting, as defined
by the Comptroller General in B–255473. The Commission shall establish
an accounting system for review by the Comptroller General under section
3512 of title 31.
(b) AUDITS.—The Comptroller General may review and audit the Com-
mission and its programs, activities, operations, and financial transactions.
The records of the Commission shall be made available to the Comptroller
General as necessary to carry out the audit.
§ 2309. Annual report
Not later than April 20 of each year, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Fed-
eral Holiday Commission shall submit to the President and Congress a re-
port on its activities under this chapter and the National and Community
Service Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12501 et seq.). The report shall include—
(1) a detailed description of all activities the Commission undertook;
(2) an analysis of the spending practices of the Commission indicat-
ing how much of the funds of the Commission are dedicated to salaries,
travel expenses, and other overhead costs and how much are dedicated
to the stated goals of the Commission; and
(3) a detailed description of any grants the Corporation for National
and Community Service made with the consultation of the Commission.
§ 2310. Authorization of appropriations
Not more than the following amounts are authorized to be appropriated
to carry out this chapter:
(1) $400,000 for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1997.
(2) $450,000 for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1998.
(3) $500,000 for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1999.
§ 2311. Ending effective date
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal Holiday Commission continues in
existence until September 30, 1999.
CHAPTER 25—UNITED STATES HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL
COUNCIL
Sec.
2501.
Establishment and purposes.
2502.
Membership.
2503.
Executive Director.
2504.
Gifts, bequests, and devises of property.
2505.
Insurance.
2506.
Audits.
2507.
Administrative.
2508.
Annual report.
2509.
Authorization of appropriations.
§ 2501. Establishment and purposes
The United States Holocaust Memorial Council is an independent estab-
lishment of the United States Government. The Council shall—
(1) provide for appropriate ways for the Nation to commemorate the
Days of Remembrance as an annual, national, civic commemoration of
the holocaust;
(2) encourage and sponsor appropriate observances of the Days of
Remembrance throughout the United States; and
(3) operate a permanent living memorial museum to the victims of
the holocaust.
§ 2502. Membership
(a) COMPOSITION.—(1) The United States Holocaust Memorial Council
consists of 65 voting members and the following ex officio nonvoting mem-
bers:
(A) one appointed by the Secretary of the Interior.
(B) one appointed by the Secretary of State.
(C) one appointed by the Secretary of Education.
(2) Of the 65 voting members—
(A) the President of the United States appoints 55;
(B) the Speaker of the House of Representatives appoints 5 from
among members of the House of Representatives; and
(C) the President pro tempore of the Senate appoints 5, on the rec-
ommendation of the majority and minority leaders, from among mem-
bers of the Senate.
(b) TERMS OF OFFICE.—(1) Except as provided in this subsection, Coun-
cil members serve for terms of 5 years.
(2) The terms of the 5 members of the House of Representatives and the
5 members of the Senate appointed during a term of Congress each expire
at the end of that term of Congress.
(c) CHAIRPERSON AND VICE CHAIRPERSON.—The President of the Unit-
ed States shall appoint the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the Council
from among the members of the Council. The Chairperson and Vice Chair-
person serve for terms of 5 years.
(d) VACANCIES.—(1) A vacancy in the Council shall be filled in the same
manner as the original appointment was made.
(2) A member appointed to fill a vacancy occurring before the expiration
of the term for which the predecessor was appointed shall be appointed only
for the remainder of the term. A member, except a Member of Congress
appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives or the President
pro tempore of the Senate, may serve after the expiration of a term until
a successor takes office.
(3) The President of the United States fills a vacancy in the offices of
the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson.
(e) REAPPOINTMENT.—A member whose term expires may be re-
appointed. The Chairperson and Vice Chairperson may be reappointed to
those offices.
(f) PAY AND EXPENSES.—(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this
subsection, members of the Council may be paid the daily equivalent of the
maximum annual rate of basic pay payable under section 5376 of title 5
for each day (including traveltime) during which they perform duties of the
Council. A member is entitled to expenses in the same way as provided
under section 5703 of title 5.
(2) Members who are full-time officers or employees of the United States
Government or Members of Congress may not receive additional pay because
of their service on the Council.
(g) ASSOCIATED COMMITTEES.—Subject to appointment by the Chair-
person, an individual, other than a member of the Council, may be des-
ignated as a member of a committee associated with the Council. The indi-
vidual serves without cost to the Government.
§ 2503. Executive Director
(a) APPOINTMENT AND PAY.—The Chairperson of the United States Hol-
ocaust Memorial Council shall appoint an Executive Director, subject to
confirmation of the Council. The Executive Director may be paid with non-
appropriated amounts. However, if the Executive Director is paid with ap-
propriated amounts, the rate of pay shall be a rate that is not more than
the maximum rate of basic pay payable under section 5376 of title 5. The
Executive Director serves at the pleasure of the Council.
(b) DUTIES AND POWERS.—The Executive Director may—
(1) appoint employees in the competitive service subject to chapter
51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of title 5;
(2) appoint and fix the compensation (at a rate that is not more
than the maximum rate of basic pay payable under section 5376 of title
5) of not more than 3 employees, notwithstanding any other provision
of law; and
(3) carry out decisions of the Council, in the manner the Council di-
rects, and carry out other duties and powers the Council, the Executive
Committee of the Council, or the Chairperson assigns.
§ 2504. Gifts, bequests, and devises of property
(a) GENERAL.—The United States Holocaust Memorial Council may so-
licit, acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer gifts, bequests, and devises
of property to aid or facilitate the maintenance and operation of the memo-
rial. The property and the proceeds of the property shall be used as nearly
as possible in accordance with the terms of the gift, bequest, or devise do-
nating the property. Money donated to and accepted by the Council under
this section is not considered appropriated amounts and is not subject to
any requirements or restrictions applicable to appropriated amounts.
(b) TAX TREATMENT.—For the purposes of Federal income, estate, and
gift taxes, property accepted under this section is deemed to be a gift, be-
quest, or devise to the United States Government.
§ 2505. Insurance
The United States Holocaust Memorial Council shall maintain insurance
on the memorial museum to cover risks, in an amount, and containing
terms the Council considers necessary.
§ 2506. Audits
When requested by Congress, the Comptroller General shall audit finan-
cial transactions of the United States Holocaust Memorial Council, includ-
ing those involving donated amounts, under generally accepted auditing
standards. The Council shall make available for an audit under this section
all records, items, or property used by the Council that are necessary for
the audit. The Council shall provide facilities for verifying transactions with
the balances.
§ 2507. Administrative
(a) BYLAWS.—(1) The United States Holocaust Memorial Council shall
adopt bylaws to carry out its duties and powers under this chapter.
(2) The Chairperson of the Council may waive a bylaw when the Chair-
person decides the waiver is in the best interest of the Council. Immediately
after waiving a bylaw, the Chairperson shall send written notice to every
voting member of the Council. The waiver becomes final 30 days after the
notice is sent unless a majority of Council members disagrees in writing be-
fore the end of the 30-day period.
(b) QUORUM.—One-third of the members of the Council is a quorum. A
vacancy in the Council does not affect its powers to function.
(c) EXPERTS AND CONSULTANTS.—The Council may procure the tem-
porary or intermittent services of experts or consultants under section 3109
of title 5, at rates that are not more than the daily equivalent of the maxi-
mum annual rate of basic pay payable under section 5376 of title 5.
(d) CONTRACT AUTHORITY.—In accordance with applicable law, the
Council may make contracts or other arrangements with public agencies or
authorities and with private organizations and persons and may make pay-
ments necessary to carry out its duties and powers under this chapter.
(e) ASSISTANCE FROM OTHER UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT DEPART-
MENTS, AGENCIES, AND
INSTRUMENTALITIES.—The Secretary of the
Smithsonian Institution, the Library of Congress, and all departments,
agencies, and instrumentalities in the executive branch of the United States
Government may assist the Council in carrying out its duties and powers
under this chapter.
(f) ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AND SUPPORT.—The Secretary of the In-
terior may provide administrative services and support to the Council on a
reimbursable basis.
§ 2508. Annual report
The Executive Director of the United States Holocaust Memorial Council
each year shall submit to Congress a report on the Executive Director’s
stewardship of the authority to operate and maintain the Holocaust Mu-
seum, including an accounting of all financial transactions involving donated
amounts.
§ 2509. Authorization of appropriations
(a) GENERAL.—Amounts necessary to carry out this chapter are author-
ized to be appropriated for each of the fiscal years ending September 30,
1997–2000. Notwithstanding another law, necessary amounts are author-
ized to be appropriated to the Council to obtain, from a private insurance
carrier, insurance against loss in connection with the memorial museum and
related property and exhibits.
(b) USE OF AMOUNTS FOR CONSTRUCTION BARRED.—Amounts author-
ized under this chapter may not be used for construction.
(c) PRIOR AUTHORITY REQUIRED.—Authority to make contracts and to
make payments under this chapter, using amounts authorized to be appro-
priated under this section, are effective only to the extent, and in amounts,
provided in advance in an appropriations law.
CHAPTER 27—PRESIDENT’S COMMITTEE ON
EMPLOYMENT OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
Sec.
2701.
Acceptance of voluntary services and money or property.
2702.
Authorization of appropriations.
§ 2701. Acceptance of voluntary services and money or prop-
erty
The President’s Committee on Employment of People With Disabilities—
(1) notwithstanding section 1342 of title 31, may accept voluntary
and uncompensated services; and
(2) may accept, use, and dispose of any money or property the Com-
mittee receives.
§ 2702. Authorization of appropriations
(a) GENERAL.—Amounts necessary for the work of the President’s Com-
mittee on Employment of People With Disabilities are authorized to be ap-
propriated for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1997, to be expended
in the manner and by agencies the President may direct.
(b) USES.—Amounts appropriated under this section are to be used to
carry out the purposes of National Disability Employment Awareness Month
and to enable the President to provide the Committee with adequate person-
nel to assist in its activities, and otherwise to provide the Committee with
the means of carrying out a program to promote the employment of individ-
uals with disabilities, by—
(1) creating interest throughout the United States in the rehabilita-
tion and employment of such individuals; and
(2) obtaining and maintaining cooperation from all public and pri-
vate groups in the field.
SUBTITLE II—PATRIOTIC AND NATIONAL
ORGANIZATIONS
PART A—GENERAL
CHAPTER
Sec.
101.
GENERAL .......................................................................................................
10101
PART B—ORGANIZATIONS
201.
AGRICULTURAL HALL OF FAME .............................................................
20101
203.
AMERICAN ACADEMY OF ARTS AND LETTERS ...................................
20301
205.
AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY ..............................................................
20501
207.
AMERICAN COUNCIL OF LEARNED SOCIETIES ..................................
20701
209.
AMERICAN EX-PRISONERS OF WAR .......................................................
20901
211.
AMERICAN GOLD STAR MOTHERS, INCORPORATED .........................
21101
213.
AMERICAN HISTORICAL SOCIETY ..........................................................
21301
215.
AMERICAN HOSPITAL OF PARIS .............................................................
21501
217.
THE AMERICAN LEGION ...........................................................................
21701
219.
THE AMERICAN NATIONAL RED CROSS ...............................................
21901
221.
THE AMERICAN NATIONAL THEATER AND ACADEMY .....................
22101
223.
THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF INTERNATIONAL LAW ........................
22301
225.
AMERICAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA LEAGUE ....................................
22501
227.
AMERICAN WAR MOTHERS .......................................................................
22701
229.
AMVETS (AMERICAN VETERANS OF WORLD WAR II, KOREA, AND
VIETNAM).
22901
231.
ARMY AND NAVY UNION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
23101
233.
AVIATION HALL OF FAME ........................................................................
23301
301.
BELLEAU WOOD MEMORIAL ASSOCIATION .........................................
30101
303.
BIG BROTHERS—BIG SISTERS OF AMERICA .......................................
30301
305.
BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION .......................................................
30501
307.
BLUE STAR MOTHERS OF AMERICA, INC. ............................................
30701
309.
BOARD FOR FUNDAMENTAL EDUCATION ...........................................
30901
311.
BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA ........................................................................
31101
313.
BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF AMERICA ........................................................
31301
401.
CATHOLIC WAR VETERANS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMER-
ICA, INCORPORATED.
40101
403.
CIVIL AIR PATROL .......................................................................................
40301
405.
CONGRESSIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR SOCIETY OF THE UNITED
STATES OF AMERICA.
40501
407.
CORPORATION FOR THE PROMOTION OF RIFLE PRACTICE AND
FIREARMS SAFETY.
40701
501.
DAUGHTERS OF UNION VETERANS OF THE CIVIL WAR 1861–
1865.
50101
503.
DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS ..........................................................
50301
601.
82ND AIRBORNE DIVISION ASSOCIATION, INCORPORATED ...........
60101
701.
FLEET RESERVE ASSOCIATION ..............................................................
70101
703.
FORMER MEMBERS OF CONGRESS ........................................................
70301
705.
THE FOUNDATION OF THE FEDERAL BAR ASSOCIATION ..............
70501
707.
FREDERICK DOUGLASS MEMORIAL AND HISTORICAL ASSOCIA-
TION.
70701
709.
FUTURE FARMERS OF AMERICA ............................................................
70901
801.
GENERAL FEDERATION OF WOMEN’S CLUBS ....................................
80101
803.
GIRL SCOUTS OF AMERICA .......................................................................
80301
805.
GOLD STAR WIVES OF AMERICA .............................................................
80501
901.
[RESERVED] ..................................................................................................
90101
1001.
ITALIAN AMERICAN WAR VETERANS OF THE UNITED STATES ...
100101
1101.
JEWISH WAR VETERANS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
INCORPORATED.
110101
1103.
JEWISH WAR VETERANS, U.S.A., NATIONAL MEMORIAL, INCOR-
PORATED.
110301
1201.
[RESERVED] ..................................................................................................
120101
1301.
LADIES OF THE GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC ...........................
130101
1303.
LEGION OF VALOR OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, IN-
CORPORATED.
130301
1305.
LITTLE LEAGUE BASEBALL, INCORPORATED ...................................
130501
1401.
MARINE CORPS LEAGUE ...........................................................................
140101
1403.
THE MILITARY CHAPLAINS ASSOCIATION OF THE UNITED
STATES OF AMERICA.
140301
1405.
MILITARY ORDER OF THE PURPLE HEART OF THE UNITED
STATES OF AMERICA, INCORPORATED.
140501
1407.
MILITARY ORDER OF THE WORLD WARS ............................................
140701
1501.
NATIONAL ACADEMY OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION ........................
150101
1503.
NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES .......................................................
150301
1505.
NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF STATE SOCIETIES, WASHINGTON,
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.
150501
1507.
NATIONAL CONFERENCE ON CITIZENSHIP ........................................
150701
1509.
NATIONAL COUNCIL ON RADIATION PROTECTION AND MEAS-
UREMENTS.
150901
1511.
NATIONAL EDUCATION ASSOCIATION OF THE UNITED STATES
151101
1513.
NATIONAL FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS FOUNDATION ..........................
151301
1515.
NATIONAL FEDERATION OF MUSIC CLUBS ........................................
151501
1517.
NATIONAL FILM PRESERVATION FOUNDATION ................................
151701
1519.
NATIONAL FUND FOR MEDICAL EDUCATION ....................................
151901
1521.
NATIONAL MINING HALL OF FAME AND MUSEUM ...........................
152101
1523.
NATIONAL MUSIC COUNCIL .....................................................................
152301
1525.
NATIONAL SAFETY COUNCIL ...................................................................
152501
1527.
NATIONAL SKI PATROL SYSTEM, INCORPORATED ...........................
152701
1529.
NATIONAL SOCIETY, DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN COLO-
NISTS.
152901
1531.
THE NATIONAL SOCIETY OF THE DAUGHTERS OF THE AMER-
ICAN REVOLUTION.
153101
1533.
NATIONAL SOCIETY OF THE SONS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLU-
TION.
153301
1535.
NATIONAL TROPICAL BOTANICAL GARDEN ........................................
153501
1537.
NATIONAL WOMAN’S RELIEF CORPS, AUXILIARY TO THE
GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC.
153701
1539.
THE NATIONAL YOEMEN F ......................................................................
153901
1541.
NAVAL SEA CADET CORPS ........................................................................
154101
1543.
NAVY CLUB OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA .........................
154301
1545.
NAVY WIVES CLUBS OF AMERICA ..........................................................
154501
1547.
NON COMMISSIONED OFFICERS ASSOCIATION OF THE UNITED
STATES OF AMERICA, INCORPORATED.
154701
1601.
[RESERVED] ..................................................................................................
160101
1701.
PARALYZED VETERANS OF AMERICA ...................................................
170101
1703.
PEARL HARBOR SURVIVORS ASSOCIATION .........................................
170301
1705.
POLISH LEGION OF AMERICAN VETERANS, U.S.A. ............................
170501
1801.
[RESERVED] ..................................................................................................
180101
1901.
RESERVE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION OF THE UNITED STATES .......
190101
1903.
RETIRED ENLISTED ASSOCIATION, INCORPORATED .......................
190301
2001.
SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS AND ORNAMENTAL HORTI-
CULTURISTS.
200101
2003.
SONS OF UNION VETERANS OF THE CIVIL WAR ...............................
200301
2101.
THEODORE ROOSEVELT ASSOCIATION ................................................
210101
2103.
369TH VETERANS’ ASSOCIATION ............................................................
210301
2201.
UNITED SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS, INCORPORATED ......................
220101
2203.
THE UNITED STATES BLIND VETERANS OF THE WORLD WAR
220301
2205.
UNITED STATES CAPITOL HISTORICAL SOCIETY .............................
220501
2207.
UNITED STATES OLYMPIC COMMITTEE ...............................................
220701
2209.
UNITED STATES SUBMARINE VETERANS OF WORLD WAR II .......
220901
2301.
VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES ..............
230101
2303.
VETERANS OF WORLD WAR I OF THE UNITED STATES OF
AMERICA, INCORPORATED.
230301
2305.
VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA, INC. ..............................................
230501
2401.
WOMEN’S ARMY CORPS VETERANS’ ASSOCIATION ............................
240101
2501.
[RESERVED] ..................................................................................................
250101
2601.
[RESERVED] ..................................................................................................
260101
2701.
[RESERVED] ..................................................................................................
270101
PART A—GENERAL
CHAPTER 101—GENERAL
Sec.
10101.
Audits.
10102.
Reservation of right to amend or repeal.
§ 10101. Audits
(a) GENERAL.—Except as otherwise provided, the accounts of each cor-
poration in part B of this subtitle shall be audited annually in accordance
with generally accepted auditing standards by an independent certified pub-
lic accountant or independent licensed public accountant, certified or li-
censed by a regulatory authority of a State or other political subdivision of
the United States. The audit shall be conducted where the accounts of the
corporation normally are kept. The person conducting the audit shall be
given access to—
(1) all records and property owned or used by the corporation nec-
essary to facilitate the audit; and
(2) full facilities for verifying transactions with the balances or secu-
rities held by depositories, fiscal agents, and custodians.
(b) REPORT.—(1) The corporation shall submit a report of the audit to
Congress not later than 6 months after the close of the fiscal year for which
the audit is made. The report shall describe the scope of the audit and in-
clude—
(A) statements necessary to present fairly the corporation’s assets,
liabilities, and surplus or deficit, and an analysis of the changes in
those amounts during the year;
(B) a statement in reasonable detail of the corporation’s income and
expenses during the year including the results of any trading, manufac-
turing, publishing, or other commercial-type endeavor; and
(C) the independent auditor’s opinion of those statements.
(2) The report may not be printed as a public document, except as part
of proceedings authorized to be printed under section 1332 of title 44.
§ 10102. Reservation of right to amend or repeal
(a) GENERAL.—Congress reserves the right to amend or repeal the provi-
sions of part B of this subtitle.
(b) NONAPPLICATION.—Subsection (a) of this section does not apply to
chapters 213, 407, 801, 1403, 1503 (except section 150302(b)), 1513,
1517, 1531, and 1539 of this title.
PART B—ORGANIZATIONS
CHAPTER 201—AGRICULTURAL HALL OF FAME
Sec.
20101.
Organization.
20102.
Purposes.
20103.
Membership.
20104.
Governing body.
20105.
Powers.
20106.
Restrictions.
20107.
Principal office.
20108.
Records and inspection.
20109.
Service of process.
20110.
Liability for acts of officers and agents.
20111.
Use of assets on dissolution or final liquidation.
§ 20101. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—Agricultural Hall of Fame (in this chapter, the
‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE.—Except as otherwise provided, the corpora-
tion has perpetual existence.
§ 20102. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are—
(1) to receive and maintain one or more funds and to use any part
of the principal or interest only for charitable, scientific, literary, or
educational purposes either directly or by contributing to organizations
authorized to carry on similar activities;
(2) to honor farmers, farm women, farm leaders, teachers, scientists,
inventors, governmental leaders, and other individuals who have helped
make this Nation great by their outstanding contributions to the estab-
lishment, development, advancement, or improvement of agriculture in
the United States;
(3) to perpetuate the memory of those individuals and record their
contributions and achievements by the erection and maintenance of
buildings and monuments as may be appropriate as a lasting memorial;
(4) to promote a greater sense of appreciation of the dignity and im-
portance of agriculture, historically carried out through owner-operated
farms, and the part it has played in developing those social, economic,
and spiritual values which are essential in maintaining the free and
democratic institutions of our Republic;
(5) to establish and maintain a library and museum for the collection
and preservation for posterity of agricultural tools, implements, ma-
chines, vehicles, pictures, paintings, books, papers, documents, data,
relics, mementos, artifacts, and other items relating to agriculture;
(6) to cooperate with other organizations interested in similar
projects; and
(7) to engage in other activities appropriate to carry out its pur-
poses.
§ 20103. Membership
(a) ELIGIBILITY.—Except as provided in this chapter, eligibility for mem-
bership in the corporation and the rights, privileges, and designation of
classes of members are as provided in the bylaws.
(b) VOTING.—Each member given voting rights by the bylaws has one
vote on each matter submitted to a vote at a meeting of the voting mem-
bers. The vote may be cast in the manner provided in the bylaws.
§ 20104. Governing body
(a) BOARD OF GOVERNORS.—(1) The board of governors is the governing
body of the corporation. Between meetings of the members of the corpora-
tion, the board is responsible for the general policies and program of the
corporation and for the control of all funds of the corporation.
(2) The number of governors, their manner of selection (including the fill-
ing of vacancies), and their term of office are as provided in the bylaws.
However, the board shall have at least 15 members.
(3) The board may appoint committees. Each committee has the powers
provided in the bylaws or by resolution of the board. The powers of a com-
mittee may include all the powers of the board.
(b) OFFICERS.—(1) The officers of the corporation are a president, one
or more vice presidents as provided in the bylaws, a secretary, a treasurer,
one or more assistant secretaries and assistant treasurers, and other officers
as provided in the bylaws.
(2) The manner of election, term of office, and duties of the officers are
as provided in the bylaws.
§ 20105. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt and amend bylaws for the management of its property and
the regulation of its affairs;
(2) adopt and alter a corporate seal;
(3) choose officers, managers, agents, and employees as the activities
of the corporation require;
(4) make contracts;
(5) acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer property as necessary
or convenient to carry out the purposes of the corporation;
(6) borrow money, issue instruments of indebtedness, and secure its
obligations by granting security interests in its property; and
(7) sue and be sued.
§ 20106. Restrictions
(a) STOCK AND DIVIDENDS.—The corporation may not issue stock or de-
clare or pay a dividend.
(b) POLITICAL ACTIVITIES.—The corporation or a governor, officer, em-
ployee, or member as such may not contribute to, support, or assist a politi-
cal party or candidate for public office.
(c) DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME OR ASSETS.—The income or assets of the
corporation may not inure to the benefit of, or be distributed to, a governor,
officer, or member as such during the life of the corporation or on its dis-
solution or final liquidation. This subsection does not prevent the payment
of compensation to an officer or employee in an amount approved by the
board of governors.
(d) LOANS.—The corporation may not make a loan or advance to a gov-
ernor, officer, employee, or member. Governors who vote for or assent to
making a loan or advance to a governor, officer, employee, or member, and
officers who participate in making the loan or advance, are jointly and sev-
erally liable to the corporation for the amount of the loan or advance until
it is repaid.
(e) CONTRIBUTIONS TO CERTAIN ORGANIZATIONS.—None of the prin-
cipal or interest of a fund referred to in section 20102(1) of this title may
be contributed to an organization if—
(1) a substantial part of its activities is carrying on propaganda or
attempting to influence legislation; or
(2) any part of its net earnings benefits a private shareholder or in-
dividual.
§ 20107. Principal office
The principal office of the corporation shall be in Kansas City, Kansas,
or another place decided by the board of governors. However, the activities
of the corporation are not confined to the place where the principal office
is located but may be conducted throughout the States, territories, and pos-
sessions of the United States.
§ 20108. Records and inspection
(a) RECORDS.—The corporation shall keep—
(1) correct and complete records of account;
(2) minutes of the proceedings of its members, board of governors,
and committees; and
(3) at its principal office, a record of the names and addresses of
its members entitled to vote.
(b) INSPECTION.—A member entitled to vote, or an agent or attorney of
the member, may inspect the records of the corporation for any proper pur-
pose, at any reasonable time.
§ 20109. Service of process
The corporation shall have a designated agent in the District of Columbia
to receive service of process for the corporation. Notice to or service on the
agent is notice to or service on the corporation.
§ 20110. Liability for acts of officers and agents
The corporation is liable for the acts of its officers and agents acting
within the scope of their authority.
§ 20111. Use of assets on dissolution or final liquidation
On dissolution or final liquidation of the corporation, any assets of the
corporation remaining after the discharge of all liabilities shall be distrib-
uted as provided by the board of governors, but in compliance with the char-
ter and bylaws.
CHAPTER 203—AMERICAN ACADEMY OF ARTS AND
LETTERS
Sec.
20301.
Organization.
20302.
Purpose.
20303.
Membership.
20304.
Powers.
20305.
Annual meeting.
20306.
Annual report.
20307.
Nonapplication of audit requirements.
§ 20301. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—American Academy of Arts and Letters (in this
chapter, the ‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PLACE OF INCORPORATION.—The corporation is declared to be incor-
porated in the District of Columbia.
§ 20302. Purpose
The purpose of the corporation is to further the interests of literature and
the fine arts.
§ 20303. Membership
The corporation may have not more than 50 regular members.
§ 20304. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt bylaws and regulations;
(2) fill vacancies;
(3) provide for the election of foreign, domestic, or honorary associ-
ate members, and the division of those members into classes;
(4) receive bequests and donations of property, hold the property in
trust, and invest the property to carry out the purpose of the corpora-
tion; and
(5) do any other act necessary or usual for such a corporation.
§ 20305. Annual meeting
The corporation shall hold an annual meeting at a place in the United
States as may be designated.
§ 20306. Annual report
The corporation shall make an annual report to Congress, to be filed with
the Librarian of Congress.
§ 20307. Nonapplication of audit requirements
The audit requirements of section 10101 of this title do not apply to the
corporation.
CHAPTER 205—AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY
Sec.
20501.
Organization.
20502.
Purposes.
20503.
Powers.
20504.
Cooperation with the military.
20505.
Annual meeting.
20506.
Annual report.
§ 20501. Organization
American Chemical Society (in this chapter, the ‘‘corporation’’) is a feder-
ally chartered corporation.
§ 20502. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are—
(1) to encourage in the broadest and most liberal manner the ad-
vancement of chemistry in all its branches;
(2) to promote research in chemical science and industry;
(3) to improve the qualifications and usefulness of chemists through
high standards of professional ethics, education, and attainments;
(4) to increase and diffuse chemical knowledge; and
(5) by its meetings, professional contacts, reports, papers, discus-
sions, and publications, to promote scientific interests and inquiry to
foster public welfare and education, aid the development of our coun-
try’s industries, and add to the material prosperity and happiness of
our people.
§ 20503. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt a constitution, bylaws, and regulations;
(2) fill vacancies;
(3) provide for the election of members and the division of those
members into classes;
(4) receive property, hold the property absolutely or in trust, invest
and manage the property, and use the property and income arising
from it to carry out the purposes of the corporation; and
(5) do any other act necessary and proper to carry out the purposes
of the corporation.
§ 20504. Cooperation with the military
(a) INVESTIGATIONS, EXAMINATIONS, EXPERIMENTS, AND REPORTS.—
When requested by the Secretary of the Army, Air Force, or Navy, the cor-
poration shall investigate, examine, experiment, and report on any subject
in pure or applied chemistry connected with the national defense.
(b) PAYMENTS.—The actual expense of those investigations, examina-
tions, experiments, and reports shall be paid from amounts appropriated for
those purposes. However, the corporation may not receive compensation for
any services performed for the United States Government.
(c) TITLE AND LICENSE.—Title to inventions and discoveries made in the
course of those investigations, examinations, and experiments that the ap-
propriate Secretary believes involve the national defense vest in the Govern-
ment. The Government shall have unlimited license under other inventions
and discoveries made in the course of those investigations, examinations,
and experiments.
§ 20505. Annual meeting
The corporation shall hold an annual meeting at a place in the United
States as may from time to time be designated.
§ 20506. Annual report
Not later than December 1 of each year, the corporation shall submit a
report to Congress on the activities of the corporation during the prior cal-
endar year, including a complete statement of its receipts and expenditures.
The report may not be printed as a public document.
CHAPTER 207—AMERICAN COUNCIL OF LEARNED
SOCIETIES
Sec.
20701.
Definition.
20702.
Organization.
20703.
Purposes.
20704.
Membership.
20705.
Governing body.
20706.
Powers.
20707.
Restrictions.
20708.
Duty to maintain tax-exempt status.
20709.
Records and inspection.
20710.
Service of process.
20711.
Liability for acts of officers and agents.
20712.
Annual report.
§ 20701. Definition
For purposes of this chapter, ‘‘State’’ includes the District of Columbia
and the territories and possessions of the United States.
§ 20702. Organization
American Council of Learned Societies (in this chapter, the ‘‘corpora-
tion’’), a nonprofit corporation incorporated in the District of Columbia, is
a federally chartered corporation.
§ 20703. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are as provided in the articles of incorpo-
ration and include—
(1) the advancement of the humanistic studies in all fields of learn-
ing; and
(2) the maintenance and strengthening of relations among the na-
tional societies devoted to those studies.
§ 20704. Membership
Except as provided in this chapter, eligibility for membership in the cor-
poration and the rights and privileges of members are as provided in the
constitution and bylaws of the corporation.
§ 20705. Governing body
(a) BOARD OF DIRECTORS.—The board of directors and the responsibil-
ities of the board are as provided in the articles of incorporation.
(b) OFFICERS.—The officers and the election of officers are as provided
in the articles of incorporation.
§ 20706. Powers
The corporation has only the powers provided in its bylaws and articles
of incorporation filed in each State in which it is incorporated.
§ 20707. Restrictions
(a) STOCK AND DIVIDENDS.—The corporation may not issue stock or de-
clare or pay a dividend.
(b) POLITICAL ACTIVITIES.—The corporation or a director or officer as
such may not contribute to, support, or participate in any political activity
or in any manner attempt to influence legislation.
(c) DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME OR ASSETS.—The income or assets of the
corporation may not inure to the benefit of, or be distributed to, a director,
officer, or member during the life of the charter granted by this chapter.
This subsection does not prevent the payment of reasonable compensationto
an officer or reimbursement for actual necessary expenses in amounts ap-
proved by the board of directors.
(d) LOANS.—The corporation may not make a loan to a director, officer,
or employee.
(e) CLAIM OF GOVERNMENTAL APPROVAL OR AUTHORITY.—The corpora-
tion may not claim congressional approval or the authority of the United
States Government for any of its activities.
§ 20708. Duty to maintain tax-exempt status
The corporation shall maintain its status as an organization exempt from
taxation under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C. 1 et seq.).
If the corporation does not maintain that status, the charter granted by this
chapter expires.
§ 20709. Records and inspection
(a) RECORDS.—The corporation shall keep—
(1) correct and complete records of account;
(2) minutes of the proceedings of its members, board of directors,
and committees; and
(3) at its principal office, a record of the names and addresses of
its members entitled to vote.
(b) INSPECTION.—A member entitled to vote, or an agent or attorney of
the member, may inspect the records of the corporation for any proper pur-
pose, at any reasonable time.
§ 20710. Service of process
The corporation shall comply with the law on service of process of each
State in which it is incorporated and each State in which it carries on ac-
tivities.
§ 20711. Liability for acts of officers and agents
The corporation is liable for the acts of its officers and agents acting
within the scope of their authority.
§ 20712. Annual report
The corporation shall submit an annual report to Congress on the activi-
ties of the corporation during the prior fiscal year. The report shall be sub-
mitted at the same time as the report of the audit required by section
10101 of this title. The report may not be printed as a public document.
CHAPTER 209—AMERICAN EX-PRISONERS OF WAR
Sec.
20901.
Definition.
20902.
Organization.
20903.
Purposes.
20904.
Membership.
20905.
Governing body.
20906.
Powers.
20907.
Exclusive right to name and emblem.
20908.
Restrictions.
20909.
Duty to maintain corporate and tax-exempt status.
20910.
Records and inspection.
20911.
Service of process.
20912.
Liability for acts of officers and agents.
20913.
Annual report.
§ 20901. Definition
For purposes of this chapter, ‘‘State’’ includes the District of Columbia
and the territories and possessions of the United States.
§ 20902. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—American Ex-Prisoners of War (in this chap-
ter, the ‘‘corporation’’), a nonprofit corporation incorporated in the State
of Washington, is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) EXPIRATION OF CHARTER.—If the corporation does not comply with
any provision of this chapter, the charter granted by this chapter expires.
§ 20903. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are as provided in the articles of incorpo-
ration and include—
(1) encouraging fraternity for the common good;
(2) fostering patriotism and loyalty;
(3) assisting widows and orphans of deceased ex-prisoners of war;
(4) assisting ex-prisoners of war who have been injured or disabled
as a result of their service;
(5) maintaining allegiance to the United States;
(6) preserving and defending the United States from all enemies;
and
(7) maintaining historical records.
§ 20904. Membership
Except as provided in this chapter, eligibility for membership in the cor-
poration and the rights and privileges of members are as provided in the
bylaws.
§ 20905. Governing body
(a) BOARD OF DIRECTORS.—The board of directors and the responsibil-
ities of the board are as provided in the articles of incorporation.
(b) OFFICERS.—The officers and the election of officers are as provided
in the articles of incorporation.
§ 20906. Powers
The corporation has only the powers provided in its bylaws and articles
of incorporation filed in each State in which it is incorporated.
§ 20907. Exclusive right to name and emblem
The corporation has the exclusive right to use and to allow others to use
the name ‘‘American Ex-Prisoners of War’’ and the official American Ex-
Prisoners of War emblem or any colorable simulation of that emblem. This
section does not affect any vested rights.
§ 20908. Restrictions
(a) STOCK AND DIVIDENDS.—The corporation may not issue stock or de-
clare or pay a dividend.
(b) POLITICAL ACTIVITIES.—The corporation or a director or officer as
such may not contribute to, support, or participate in any political activity
or in any manner attempt to influence legislation.
(c) DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME OR ASSETS.—The income or assets of the
corporation may not inure to the benefit of, or be distributed to, a director,
officer, or member during the life of the charter granted by this chapter.
This subsection does not prevent the payment of reasonable compensation
to an officer or reimbursement for actual necessary expenses in amounts ap-
proved by the board or directors.
(d) LOANS.—The corporation may not make a loan to a director, officer,
or employee.
(e) CLAIM OF GOVERNMENTAL APPROVAL OR AUTHORITY.—The corpora-
tion may not claim congressional approval or the authority of the United
States Government for any of its activities.
§ 20909. Duty to maintain corporate and tax-exempt status
(a) CORPORATE STATUS.—The corporation shall maintain its status as a
corporation incorporated under the laws of the State of Washington.
(b) TAX-EXEMPT STATUS.—The corporation shall maintain its status as
an organization exempt from taxation under the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 (26 U.S.C. 1 et seq.).
§ 20910. Records and inspection
(a) RECORDS.—The Corporation shall keep—
(1) correct and complete records of account;
(2) minutes of the proceedings of its members, board of directors,
and committees; and
(3) at its principal office, a record of the names and addresses of
its members entitled to vote.
(b) INSPECTION.—A member entitled to vote, or an agent or attorney of
the member, may inspect the records of the corporation for any proper pur-
pose, at any reasonable time.
§ 20911. Service of process
The corporation shall comply with the law on service of process of each
State in which it is incorporated and each State in which it carries on ac-
tivities.
§ 20912. Liability for acts of officers and agents
The corporation is liable for the acts of its officers and agents acting
within the scope of their authority.
§ 20913. Annual report
The corporation shall submit an annual report to Congress on the activi-
ties of the corporation during the prior fiscal year. The report shall be sub-
mitted at the same time as the report of the audit required by section
10101 of this title. The report may not be printed as a public document.
CHAPTER 211—AMERICAN GOLD STAR MOTHERS,
INCORPORATED
Sec.
21101.
Definition.
21102.
Organization.
21103.
Purposes.
21104.
Membership.
21105.
Governing body.
21106.
Powers.
21107.
Restrictions.
21108.
Duty to maintain corporate and tax-exempt status.
21109.
Records and inspection.
21110.
Service of process.
21111.
Liability for acts of officers and agents.
21112.
Annual report.
§ 21101. Definition
For purposes of this chapter, ‘‘State’’ includes the District of Columbia
and the territories and possessions of the United States.
§ 21102. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—American Gold Star Mothers, Incorporated (in
this chapter, the ‘‘corporation’’), incorporated in the District of Columbia,
is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) EXPIRATION OF CHARTER.—If the corporation does not comply with
any provision of this chapter, the charter granted by this chapter expires.
§ 21103. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are as provided in the articles of incorpo-
ration and include a continuing commitment, on a national basis, to—
(1) keep alive and develop the spirit that promoted world services;
(2) maintain the ties of fellowship born of that service, and assist
and further all patriotic work;
(3) inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community,
State, and Nation;
(4) assist veterans of World War I, World War II, the Korean Con-
flict, Vietnam, and other strategic areas and their dependents in the
presentation of claims to the Department of Veterans Affairs, and aid
in any way in their power the men and women who served and died
or were wounded or incapacitated during hostilities;
(5) perpetuate the memory of those whose lives were sacrificed in our
wars;
(6) maintain true allegiance to the United States;
(7) inculcate lessons of patriotism and love of country in the commu-
nities in which we live;
(8) inspire respect for the Stars and Stripes in the youth of America;
(9) extend needful assistance to all Gold Star Mothers and, when
possible, to their descendants; and
(10) promote peace and good will for the United States and all other
Nations.
§ 21104. Membership
(a) ELIGIBILITY.—Except as provided in this chapter, eligibility for mem-
bership in the corporation and the rights and privileges of members are as
provided in the constitution and bylaws.
(b) NONDISCRIMINATION.—The terms of membership may not discrimi-
nate on the basis of race, color, religion, or national origin.
§ 21105. Governing body
(a) BOARD OF DIRECTORS.—The board of directors and the responsibil-
ities of the board are as provided in the articles of incorporation.
(b) OFFICERS.—The officers and the election of officers are as provided
in the articles of incorporation.
(c) NONDISCRIMINATION.—The requirements for holding office in the cor-
poration may not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, or na-
tional origin.
§ 21106. Powers
The corporation has only the powers provided in its bylaws and articles
of incorporation filed in each State in which it is incorporated.
§ 21107. Restrictions
(a) STOCK AND DIVIDENDS.—The corporation may not issue stock or de-
clare or pay a dividend.
(b) DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME OR ASSETS.—The income or assets of the
corporation may not inure to the benefit of, or be distributed to, a director,
officer, or member during the life of the charter granted by this chapter.
This subsection does not prevent the payment of reasonable compensation
to an officer or reimbursement for actual necessary expenses in amounts ap-
proved by the board of directors.
(c) LOANS.—The corporation may not make a loan to a director, officer,
or employee.
(d) CLAIM OF GOVERNMENTAL APPROVAL OR AUTHORITY.—The corpora-
tion may not claim congressional approval or the authority of the United
States Government for any of its activities.
§ 21108. Duty to maintain corporate and tax-exempt status
(a) CORPORATE STATUS.—The corporation shall maintain its status as a
corporation incorporated under the laws of each State in which it is incor-
porated.
(b) TAX-EXEMPT STATUS.—The corporation shall maintain its status as
an organization exempt from taxation under the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 (26 U.S.C. 1 et seq.).
§ 21109. Records and inspection
(a) RECORDS.—The corporation shall keep—
(1) correct and complete records of account;
(2) minutes of the proceedings of its members, board of directors,
and committees; and
(3) at its principal office, a record of the names and addresses of
its members entitled to vote.
(b) INSPECTION.—A member entitled to vote, or an agent or attorney of
the member, may inspect the records of the corporation for any proper pur-
pose, at any reasonable time.
§ 21110. Service of process
The corporation shall comply with the law on service of process of each
State in which it is incorporated and each State in which it carries on ac-
tivities.
§ 21111. Liability for acts of officers and agents
The corporation is liable for the acts of its officers and agents acting
within the scope of their authority.
§ 21112. Annual report
The corporation shall submit an annual report to Congress on the activi-
ties of the corporation during the prior fiscal year. The report shall be sub-
mitted at the same time as the report of the audit required by section
10101 of this title. The report may not be printed as a public document.
CHAPTER 213—AMERICAN HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Sec.
21301.
Organization.
21302.
Purposes.
21303.
Powers.
21304.
Annual meeting.
21305.
Principal office.
21306.
Historical collections.
21307.
Annual report.
§ 21301. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—American Historical Society (in this chapter,
the ‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PLACE OF INCORPORATION.—The corporation is declared to be incor-
porated in the District of Columbia.
§ 21302. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are—
(1) to promote historical studies;
(2) to collect and preserve historical manuscripts; and
(3) other kindred purposes in the interest of American history and
of history in America.
§ 21303. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt a constitution and bylaws; and
(2) hold property in the District of Columbia necessary to carry out
the purposes of the corporation.
§ 21304. Annual meeting
The corporation may hold its annual meeting in a place the members of
the corporation select.
§ 21305. Principal office
The principal office of the corporation shall be in the District of Colum-
bia.
§ 21306. Historical collections
The Regents of the Smithsonian Institution may allow the corporation to
deposit its collections, manuscripts, books, pamphlets, and other historical
material in the Smithsonian Institution or the National Museum on condi-
tions and under regulations the Regents prescribe.
§ 21307. Annual report
The corporation shall submit an annual report to the Secretary of the
Smithsonian Institution on the activities of the corporation and the condi-
tion of historical study in America. The Secretary shall submit to Congress
any part of the report the Secretary decides is appropriate.
CHAPTER 215—AMERICAN HOSPITAL OF PARIS
Sec.
21501.
Organization.
21502.
Purpose.
21503.
Governing body.
21504.
Acquisition and management of property.
21505.
Charges for medical services.
21506.
Principal office.
21507.
Nonapplication of audit requirements.
§ 21501. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—American Hospital of Paris (in this chapter,
the ‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PLACE OF INCORPORATION.—The corporation is declared to be incor-
porated in the District of Columbia.
(c) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE.—Except as otherwise provided, the corpora-
tion has perpetual existence.
§ 21502. Purpose
The purpose of the corporation is to maintain a hospital in the vicinity
of Paris, France, to provide medical and surgical care to citizens of the
United States.
§ 21503. Governing body
(a) GENERAL.—(1) The board of governors is the governing body of the
corporation.
(2) The board shall have at least 12 governors, divided into 3 classes of
equal numbers. One class of governors shall be elected each year for a term
of 3 years or until their successors are elected. The corporation shall elect
the governors at its annual meeting.
(b) QUORUM.—Five governors are a quorum for the transaction of busi-
ness, except that a majority vote of the board is required for—
(1) the sale or alienation of any real or personal estate of the cor-
poration; or
(2) the leasing of real estate of the corporation for a term of more
than one year.
(c) POWERS.—The board may—
(1) adopt and amend bylaws, as may be necessary and proper, relat-
ed to—
(A) elections and meetings;
(B) qualifications and duties of governors and officers;
(C) admission and qualifications of members; and
(D) management and disposition of the property, business, and
concerns of the corporation;
(2) conduct all business of the corporation;
(3) fill, until the next annual election, a vacancy on the board; and
(4) appoint attending and resident physicians and surgeons, agents,
assistants, and attendants as may be necessary, set their compensation,
and discharge them.
§ 21504. Acquisition and management of property
The corporation may acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer prop-
erty, in the United States and France, to carry out the purposes of the cor-
poration.
§ 21505. Charges for medical services
The corporation may charge a reasonable compensation for providing
medical and surgical services or may provide those services without charge.
Amounts received under this section shall be used to carry out the purposes
of the corporation.
§ 21506. Principal office
The principal office of the corporation shall be in the District of Colum-
bia. However, offices may be maintained and meetings of the board of gov-
ernors and committees may be held elsewhere.
§ 21507. Nonapplication of audit requirements
The audit requirements of section 10101 of this title do not apply to the
corporation.
CHAPTER 217—THE AMERICAN LEGION
Sec.
21701.
Organization.
21702.
Purposes.
21703.
Membership.
21704.
Powers.
21705.
Exclusive right to name, emblems, and badges.
21706.
Political activities.
21707.
Service of process.
21708.
Annual report.
§ 21701. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—The American Legion (in this chapter, the
‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE.—Except as otherwise provided, the corpora-
tion has perpetual existence.
§ 21702. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are—
(1) to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States;
(2) to promote peace and good will among the peoples of the United
States and all the nations of the earth;
(3) to preserve the memories and incidents of the 2 World Wars and
the other great hostilities fought to uphold democracy;
(4) to cement the ties and comradeship born of service; and
(5) to consecrate the efforts of its members to mutual helpfulness
and service to their country.
§ 21703. Membership
An individual is eligible for membership in the corporation only if the in-
dividual—
(1) has served in the armed forces of—
(A) the United States at any time during any period from—
(i) April 6, 1917, through November 11, 1918;
(ii) December 7, 1941, through December 31, 1946;
(iii) June 25, 1950, through January 31, 1955;
(iv) December 22, 1961, through May 7, 1975;
(v) August 24, 1982, through July 31, 1984;
(vi) December 20, 1989, through January 31, 1990; or
(vii) August 2, 1990, through the date of cessation of hos-
tilities, as decided by the United States Government; or
(B) a government associated with the United States during a
period referred to in subclause (A) of this clause and was a citizen
of the United States when the individual entered that service; and
(2) was honorably discharged or separated from that service or con-
tinues to serve honorably after that period.
§ 21704. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt a constitution, bylaws, and regulations to carry out the
purposes of the corporation;
(2) adopt and alter a corporate seal;
(3) establish and maintain offices to conduct its activities;
(4) establish State and territorial organizations and local chapter or
post organizations;
(5) acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer property as necessary
to carry out the purposes of the corporation;
(6) publish a magazine and other publications;
(7) sue and be sued; and
(8) do any other act necessary and proper to carry out the purposes
of the corporation.
§ 21705. Exclusive right to name, emblems, and badges
The corporation and its State and local subdivisions have the exclusive
right to use the name ‘‘The American Legion’’ or ‘‘American Legion’’. The
corporation has the exclusive right to use, manufacture, and control the
right to manufacture, emblems and badges the corporation adopts.
§ 21706. Political activities
The corporation shall be nonpolitical and may not promote the candidacy
of an individual seeking public office.
§ 21707. Service of process
As a condition to the exercise of any power or privilege granted by this
chapter, the corporation shall file, with the secretary of state or other des-
ignated official of each State, the name and address of an agent in that
State on whom legal process or demands against the corporation may be
served.
§ 21708. Annual report
Not later than January 1 of each year, the corporation shall submit a
report to Congress on the activities of the corporation during the prior cal-
endar year. The report may not be printed as a public document.
CHAPTER 219—THE AMERICAN NATIONAL RED CROSS
Sec.
21901.
Organization.
21902.
Purposes.
21903.
Membership and chapters.
21904.
Board of governors.
21905.
Powers.
21906.
Emblem, badge, and brassard.
21907.
Annual meeting.
21908.
Buildings.
21909.
Endowment fund.
21910.
Annual report and audit.
§ 21901. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—The American National Red Cross (in this
chapter, the ‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PLACE OF INCORPORATION.—The corporation is declared to be incor-
porated in the District of Columbia.
(c) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE.—Except as otherwise provided, the corpora-
tion has perpetual existence.
§ 21902. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are—
(1) to provide volunteer aid in time of war to the sick and wounded
of the armed forces of the United States, in accordance with the spirit
and conditions of the conference of Geneva of October, 1863, the trea-
ties of the Red Cross, or the treaties of Geneva, of August 22, 1864,
and July 27, 1929, to which the United States Government has agreed,
and any other treaty or convention similar in purpose to which the
Government has agreed;
(2) in carrying out the purposes described in clause (1) of this sec-
tion, to perform all the duties devolved on a national society by the gov-
ernment of each country that has agreed to any of those treaties or
conventions;
(3) to act in matters of voluntary relief and in accordance with the
military authorities as a medium of communication between the people
of the United States and the armed forces of the United States and
to act in those matters between similar national societies of govern-
ments of other countries through the ‘‘Comitee International de
Secours’’ and the Government, the people, and the armed forces of the
United States; and
(4) to carry out a system of national and international relief in time
of peace and use that system in mitigating the suffering caused by pes-
tilence, famine, fire, floods, and other great national calamities, and to
devise and carry out measures for preventing those calamities.
§ 21903. Membership and chapters
(a) MEMBERSHIP.—Membership in the corporation is open to all the peo-
ple of the United States and its territories and possessions, on payment of
an amount specified in the bylaws.
(b) CHAPTERS.—(1) The chapters of the corporation are the local units
of the corporation. The board of governors shall prescribe regulations relat-
ed to—
(A) granting charters to the chapters and revoking those charters;
(B) the territorial jurisdiction of the chapters;
(C) the relationship of the chapters to the corporation; and
(D) compliance by the chapters with the policies and regulations of
the corporation.
(2) The regulations shall require that each chapter adhere to the demo-
cratic principles of election specified in the bylaws in electing the governing
body of the chapter and selecting delegates to the national convention of the
corporation.
§ 21904. Board of governors
(a) BOARD OF GOVERNORS.—(1) The board of governors is the governing
body of the corporation with all powers of governing and managing the cor-
poration. The board has 50 members. The governors shall be appointed or
elected in the following manner:
(A) The President shall appoint 8 governors, one of whom the Presi-
dent shall designate to act as the principal officer of the corporation
with the title and functions provided in the bylaws. The other governors
appointed by the President shall be officials of departments, agencies,
and instrumentalities of the United States Government, whose positions
and interests qualify them to contribute to carrying out the programs
and purposes of the corporation. At least one, but not more than 3,
of those officials shall be selected from the armed forces.
(B) The chapters shall elect 30 governors at the national convention
under procedures for nomination and election that ensure equitable
representation of all chapters, with regard to geographical consider-
ations and the size of the membership of the chapters and of the popu-
lations served by the chapters.
(C) The board shall elect 12 governors as members at large. Those
governors shall be individuals who are representative of the national in-
terests that the corporation serves, and with which it is desirable that
the corporation have close association.
(2) One-third of the members elected to the board shall be elected at each
national convention, and take office at that time or as soon as practicable
after the convention.
(b) TERM OF OFFICE AND VACANCIES.—(1) The term of office of each
governor is 3 years. However, the term of office of a governor appointed
by the President (except the principal officer of the corporation) expires if,
before the end of the 3-year term, the governor retires from the official posi-
tion held at the time of appointment as a governor.
(2) The President shall fill as soon as practicable a vacancy in the office
of the principal officer of the corporation or in the position of another gov-
ernor appointed by the President. The board shall make a temporary ap-
pointment to fill a vacancy occurring in an elected position on the board.
An individual appointed by the board to fill a vacancy serves until the next
national convention.
(c) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.—The board may—
(1) appoint, from its own members, an executive committee of at
least 11 individuals to carry out the powers of the board when the
board is not in session; and
(2) appoint and remove, or provide for the appointment and removal
of, officers and employees of the corporation, except the principal offi-
cer of the corporation.
(d) VOTING BY PROXY.—Voting by proxy is not allowed at a meeting of
the board, at the national convention, or at a meeting of a chapter. How-
ever, the board may allow the election of governors by proxy at the national
convention if the board believes a national emergency makes attendance at
the national convention impossible.
§ 21905. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt bylaws and regulations;
(2) adopt and alter a seal;
(3) acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer property to carry out
the purposes of the corporation;
(4) act in matters of relief under the treaties of Geneva, August 22,
1864, and July 27, 1929;
(5) sue and be sued in State or Federal courts within the jurisdiction
of the United States; and
(6) do any other act necessary to carry out this chapter and promote
the purposes of the corporation.
§ 21906. Emblem, badge, and brassard
(a) EMBLEM AND BADGE.—In carrying out its purposes under this chap-
ter, the corporation may have and use, as an emblem and badge, a Greek
red cross on a white ground, as described in the treaties of Geneva, August
22, 1864, and July 27, 1929, and adopted by the nations agreeing to those
treaties.
(b) DELIVERY OF BRASSARD.—In accordance with those treaties, the de-
livery of the brassard allowed for individuals neutralized in time of war shall
be left to military authority.
§ 21907. Annual meeting
The annual meeting of the corporation is the national convention of dele-
gates of the chapters. The national convention shall be held annually on a
date and at a place specified by the board of governors. In matters requiring
a vote at the national convention, each chapter is entitled to at least one
vote. The board shall determine on an equitable basis the number of votes
that each chapter is entitled to cast, taking into consideration the size of
the membership of the chapters and of the populations served by the chap-
ters. The board shall review the allocation of votes at least every 5 years.
§ 21908. Buildings
(a) OWNERSHIP.—The United States Government shall retain ownership
of—
(1) the permanent building erected on square 172 in the District of
Columbia for the use of the American National Red Cross in connec-
tion with its work in cooperation with the Government; and
(2) the memorial building to commemorate the services and sacrifices
of the patriotic women of the United States, its territories and posses-
sions, and the District of Columbia during World War I erected for the
use of the American National Red Cross.
(b) MAINTENANCE AND EXPENSES.—Those buildings shall remain under
the supervision of the Administrator of General Services. However, the cor-
poration shall care for and maintain the buildings without expense to the
Government.
§ 21909. Endowment fund
The endowment fund of the corporation shall be kept and invested under
the management and control of a board of 9 trustees elected by the board
of governors. The board of governors shall prescribe regulations on terms
and tenure of office, accountability, and expenses of the board of trustees.
§ 21910. Annual report and audit
(a) SUBMISSION OF REPORT.—As soon as practicable after July 1 of each
year, the corporation shall submit a report to the Secretary of Defense on
the activities of the corporation during the fiscal year ending June 30, in-
cluding a complete, itemized report of all receipts and expenditures.
(b) AUDITING OF REPORT AND SUBMISSION TO CONGRESS.—The Sec-
retary shall audit the report and submit a copy of the audited report to
Congress.
(c) PAYMENT OF AUDIT EXPENSES.—The corporation shall reimburse the
Secretary each year for auditing its accounts. The amount paid shall be de-
posited in the Treasury of the United States as a miscellaneous receipt.
(d) NONAPPLICATION OF OTHER AUDIT REQUIREMENTS.—The audit re-
quirements of section 10101 of this title do not apply to the corporation.
CHAPTER 221—THE AMERICAN NATIONAL THEATER
AND ACADEMY
Sec.
22101.
Organization.
22102.
Purposes.
22103.
Powers.
22104.
Exclusive right to name.
22105.
Restrictions.
22106.
Headquarters and meetings.
22107.
Service of process.
22108.
Annual report.
§ 22101. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—The American National Theater and Academy
(in this chapter, the ‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE.—Except as otherwise provided, the corpora-
tion has perpetual existence.
§ 22102. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation include—
(1) the presentation of theatrical productions of the highest type;
(2) the stimulation of public interest in the drama as an art belong-
ing both to the theater and to literature and to be enjoyed both on the
stage and in the study;
(3) the advancement of interest in the drama throughout the United
States by furthering the production of the best plays, interpreted by
the best actors at a minimum cost;
(4) the further development of the study of drama of the present and
past in our universities, colleges, schools, and elsewhere; and
(5) the sponsoring, encouraging, and developing of the art and tech-
nique of the theater through a school within the National Academy.
§ 22103. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt a constitution, bylaws, and regulations;
(2) adopt and alter a corporate seal;
(3) establish and maintain offices and buildings to conduct its activi-
ties;
(4) establish State and territorial organizations and local branches;
(5) acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer property as necessary
to carry out the purposes of the corporation, subject to its constitution
and instructions of donors;
(6) sue and be sued; and
(7) do any other act necessary and proper to carry out the purposes
of the corporation.
§ 22104. Exclusive right to name
The corporation and its State and local branches and subdivisions have
the exclusive right to use the name ‘‘The American National Theater and
Academy’’.
§ 22105. Restrictions
(a) PROFIT AND STOCK.—The corporation shall be nonprofit and may not
issue stock.
(b) POLITICAL ACTIVITIES.—The corporation shall be nonpolitical and
nonsectarian, and may not promote the candidacy of an individual seeking
public office.
(c) HONORARY MEMBERS.—The corporation may not have honorary
members.
§ 22106. Headquarters and meetings
The corporation may have its headquarters and hold its meetings at
places the corporation decides are best.
§ 22107. Service of process
As a condition to the exercise of any power or privilege granted by this
chapter, the corporation shall file, with the secretary of state or other des-
ignated official of the District of Columbia or of each State, territory, or
possession of the United States in which its headquarters, branches, or sub-
divisions are located, the name and address of an agent in that jurisdiction
on whom legal process or demands against the corporation may be served.
§ 22108. Annual report
Not later than January 1 of each year, the corporation shall submit a
report to Congress on the activities of the corporation during the prior cal-
endar year, including a complete report of its receipts and expenditures. The
report may not be printed as a public document.
CHAPTER 223—THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF
INTERNATIONAL LAW
Sec.
22301.
Organization.
22302.
Purposes.
22303.
Governing body.
22304.
Powers.
22305.
Restrictions.
22306.
Principal office.
22307.
Records and inspection.
22308.
Service of process.
22309.
Liability for acts of officers and agents.
§ 22301. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—The American Society of International Law (in
this chapter, the ‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE.—Except as otherwise provided, the corpora-
tion has perpetual existence.
§ 22302. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are—
(1) to foster the study of international law; and
(2) to promote the establishment and maintenance of international
relations on the basis of law and justice.
§ 22303. Governing body
(a) EXECUTIVE COUNCIL.—(1) The executive council is the governing
body of the corporation. However, the council is subject to the directions
of the corporation at its annual meetings and at any other meeting called
under the constitution, bylaws, or regulations of the corporation.
(2) The council consists of a president, an honorary president, a number
of vice presidents and honorary vice presidents as provided in the constitu-
tion, a secretary, a treasurer, and at least 24 additional individuals.
(b) ELECTION AND TERMS.—The officers of the corporation and one-
third of the other members of the council shall be elected at each annual
meeting of the corporation. However, the constitution may authorize the
council—
(1) to elect the secretary and the treasurer of the corporation for
specified terms; and
(2) to fill vacancies until the next annual meeting.
§ 22304. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt and amend a constitution, bylaws, and regulations for the
management of its property and the regulation of its affairs;
(2) adopt and alter a corporate seal;
(3) choose officers, managers, and agents as the activities of the cor-
poration require;
(4) make contracts;
(5) acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer property as necessary
to carry out the purposes of the corporation;
(6) borrow money, issue instruments of indebtedness, and secure its
obligations by granting security interests in its property;
(7) publish a journal and other publications;
(8) sue and be sued; and
(9) do any other act necessary and proper to carry out the purposes
of the corporation.
§ 22305. Restrictions
(a) PROFIT.—The corporation may not operate for profit.
(b) STOCK AND DIVIDENDS.—The corporation may not issue stock or de-
clare or pay a dividend.
(c) POLITICAL ACTIVITIES.—The corporation or an officer or member of
the executive council as such may not contribute to, support, or assist a po-
litical party or candidate for elective public office.
(d) DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME OR ASSETS.—The income or assets of the
corporation may not inure to the benefit of, or be distributed to, a member
of the corporation or an officer or member of the executive council, except
on the dissolution or final liquidation of the corporation.
(e) LOANS.—The corporation may not make a loan or advance to an offi-
cer or member of the executive council. Members of the council who vote
for or assent to making a loan or advance to an officer or member of the
council, and officers who participate in making the loan or advance, are
jointly and severally liable to the corporation for the amount of the loan or
advance until it is repaid.
§ 22306. Principal office
The principal office of the corporation shall be in the District of Colum-
bia. However, the activities of the corporation are not confined to the Dis-
trict of Columbia but may be conducted throughout the United States.
§ 22307. Records and inspection
(a) RECORDS.—The corporation shall keep—
(1) correct and complete records of account;
(2) minutes of the proceedings of its members, executive council, and
committees; and
(3) at its principal office, a record of the names and addresses of
its members entitled to vote.
(b) INSPECTION.—A member, or an agent or attorney of the member,
may inspect the records of the corporation for any proper purpose, at any
reasonable time.
§ 22308. Service of process
The corporation shall have a designated agent in the District of Columbia
to receive service of process for the corporation. Notice to or service on the
agent, or mailed to the business address of the agent, is notice to or service
on the corporation.
§ 22309. Liability for acts of officers and agents
The corporation is liable for the acts of its officers and agents acting
within the scope of their authority.
CHAPTER 225—AMERICAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
LEAGUE
Sec.
22501.
Organization.
22502.
Purposes.
22503.
Membership.
22504.
Governing body.
22505.
Powers.
22506.
Exclusive right to name, insignia, emblems, and badges.
22507.
Restrictions.
22508.
Principal office.
22509.
Records and inspection.
22510.
Service of process.
22511.
Liability for acts of officers and agents.
22512.
Distribution of assets on dissolution or final liquidation.
§ 22501. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—American Symphony Orchestra League (in this
chapter, the ‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE.—Except as otherwise provided, the corpora-
tion has perpetual existence.
§ 22502. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are—
(1) to serve as a coordinating, research, and educational agency and
clearinghouse for symphony orchestras to help strengthen the work in
their local communities;
(2) to assist in the formation of new symphony orchestras;
(3) to encourage and recognize the work of America’s musicians,
conductors, and composers, through suitable means; and
(4) to aid the expansion of the musical and cultural life of the Unit-
ed States through suitable educational and service activities.
§ 22503. Membership
(a) ELIGIBILITY.—Except as provided in this chapter, eligibility for mem-
bership in the corporation and the rights, privileges, and designation of
classes of members are as provided in the constitution and bylaws of the
corporation.
(b) VOTING.—Each member (except an honorary, sustaining, or associate
member) has one vote on each matter submitted to a vote at a meeting of
the members.
§ 22504. Governing body
(a) BOARD OF DIRECTORS.—(1) The board of directors is the governing
body of the corporation. Between meetings of the members of the corpora-
tion, the board is responsible for the general policies and program of the
corporation and for the control of contributions raised by the corporation.
(2) The number of directors, their manner of selection (including the fill-
ing of vacancies), and their term of office are as provided in the constitution
and bylaws of the corporation.
(b) OFFICERS.—(1) The officers of the corporation are a president, one
or more vice presidents as provided in the constitution and bylaws, a sec-
retary, a treasurer, and one or more assistant secretaries and assistant
treasurers as provided in the constitution and bylaws.
(2) The manner of election, term of office, and duties of the officers are
as provided in the constitution and bylaws.
§ 22505. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt and amend a constitution and bylaws for the management
of its property and the regulation of its affairs;
(2) adopt and alter a corporate seal;
(3) choose officers, managers, agents, and employees as the activities
of the corporation require;
(4) make contracts;
(5) acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer property as necessary
or convenient to carry out the purposes of the corporation;
(6) borrow money, issue instruments of indebtedness, and secure its
obligations by granting security interests in its property; and
(7) sue and be sued.
§ 22506. Exclusive right to name, insignia, emblems, and
badges
The corporation has the exclusive right to use the name ‘‘American Sym-
phony Orchestra League’’ and distinctive insignia, emblems and badges, de-
scriptive or designating marks, and words or phrases required to carry out
the duties and powers of the corporation. This section does not affect any
vested rights.
§ 22507. Restrictions
(a) STOCK AND DIVIDENDS.—The corporation may not issue stock or de-
clare or pay a dividend.
(b) POLITICAL ACTIVITIES.—The corporation or a director or officer as
such may not contribute to, support, or assist a political party or candidate
for public office.
(c) DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME OR ASSETS.—The income or assets of the
corporation may not inure to the benefit of, or be distributed to, a director,
officer, or member as such during the life of the corporation or on its dis-
solution or final liquidation. This subsection does not prevent the payment
of compensation to an officer in an amount approved by the board of direc-
tors.
(d) LOANS.—The corporation may not make a loan or advance to a direc-
tor, officer, or employee. Directors who vote for or assent to making a loan
or advance to a director, officer, or employee, and officers who participate
in making the loan or advance, are jointly and severally liable to the cor-
poration for the amount of the loan or advance until it is repaid.
§ 22508. Principal office
The principal office of the corporation shall be in Charleston, West Vir-
ginia, or another place decided by the board of directors. However, the ac-
tivities of the corporation are not confined to the place where the principal
office is located but may be conducted throughout the States, territories,
and possessions of the United States.
§ 22509. Records and inspection
(a) RECORDS.—The corporation shall keep—
(1) correct and complete records of account;
(2) minutes of the proceedings of its members, board of directors,
and committees; and
(3) at its principal office, a record of the names and addresses of
its members entitled to vote.
(b) INSPECTION.—A member entitled to vote, or an agent or attorney of
the member, may inspect the records of the corporation for any proper pur-
pose, at any reasonable time.
§ 22510. Service of process
The corporation shall have a designated agent in the District of Columbia
to receive service of process for the corporation. Notice to or service on the
agent, or mailed to the business address of the agent, is notice to or service
on the corporation.
§ 22511. Liability for acts of officers and agents
The corporation is liable for the acts of its officers and agents acting
within the scope of their authority.
§ 22512. Distribution of assets on dissolution or final liq-
uidation
On dissolution or final liquidation of the corporation, any assets remain-
ing after the discharge of all liabilities shall be distributed as provided by
the board of directors, but in compliance with the constitution and bylaws
of the corporation.
CHAPTER 227—AMERICAN WAR MOTHERS
Sec.
22701.
Organization.
22702.
Purposes.
22703.
Membership.
22704.
Powers.
22705.
Exclusive right to name.
22706.
Restrictions.
22707.
Tax-exempt status.
22708.
Meetings.
22709.
Service of process.
22710.
Annual report.
§ 22701. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—American War Mothers (in this chapter, the
‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PLACE OF INCORPORATION.—The corporation is declared to be incor-
porated in the District of Columbia.
(c) PERIOD OF EXISTENCE.—The corporation may continue to exist until
there are no individuals who qualify for membership.
§ 22702. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are—
(1) to keep alive and develop the spirit that promoted world service;
(2) to maintain the ties of fellowship born of that service and to as-
sist and further any patriotic work;
(3) to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community,
State, and Nation;
(4) to work for the welfare of the Army and Navy;
(5) to assist, in any way in their power, men and women who served
and were wounded or incapacitated in World War I; and
(6) to foster and promote friendship and understanding between
America and the Allies in World War I.
§ 22703. Membership
Eligibility for membership in the corporation is limited to women—
(1) who are citizens of the United States; and
(2) whose natural son or daughter, legally adopted son or daughter,
or stepson or stepdaughter—
(A) served in the armed forces of the United States or its allies
in World War I, World War II, the Korean conflict, or any subse-
quent war or conflict involving the United States; and
(B) was honorably discharged from that service or continues in
the service.
§ 22704. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt a constitution, bylaws, and regulations;
(2) adopt and alter a corporate seal;
(3) adopt emblems and badges;
(4) establish and maintain offices to conduct its activities;
(5) establish State, territorial, and local subdivisions;
(6) acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer property as necessary
to carry out the purposes of the corporation, subject to section
22706(b) of this title;
(7) publish a magazine and other publications;
(8) sue and be sued; and
(9) do any other act necessary and proper to carry out its purposes.
§ 22705. Exclusive right to name
The corporation and its State, territorial, and local subdivisions have the
exclusive right to use the name ‘‘American War Mothers’’.
§ 22706. Restrictions
(a) GENERAL.—The corporation shall be nonprofit, nonpolitical, non-
sectarian, and nonpartisan, and may not promote the candidacy of an indi-
vidual seeking public office.
(b) OWNERSHIP AND USE OF PROPERTY.—The corporation may not ac-
cept, own, or hold, directly or indirectly, any property not reasonably nec-
essary to carry out the purposes of the corporation.
§ 22707. Tax-exempt status
The personal property and funds of the corporation, whether principal or
income, so long as held or used only to carry out the purposes of the cor-
poration, are exempt from taxation by the United States Government, the
District of Columbia, and the territories and possessions of the United
States.
§ 22708. Meetings
The corporation may hold its meetings at any place the corporation de-
cides.
§ 22709. Service of process
As a condition to the exercise of any power or privilege granted by this
chapter, the corporation shall file, with the secretary of state or other des-
ignated official of each State, the name and address of an agent in that
State on whom legal process or demands against the corporation may be
served.
§ 22710. Annual report
Not later than January 1 of each year, the corporation shall submit a
report to Congress on the activities of the corporation during the prior cal-
endar year. The report may not be printed as a public document.
CHAPTER 229—AMVETS (AMERICAN VETERANS OF
WORLD WAR II, KOREA, AND VIETNAM)
Sec.
22901.
Organization.
22902.
Purposes.
22903.
Membership.
22904.
Governing body.
22905.
Powers.
22906.
Exclusive right to name, seals, emblems, and badges.
22907.
Restrictions.
22908.
Headquarters and principal place of business.
22909.
Records and inspection.
22910.
Service of process.
22911.
Liability for acts of officials, representatives, and agents.
22912.
Distribution of assets on dissolution or final liquidation.
§ 22901. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—AMVETS (American Veterans of World War
II, Korea, and Vietnam) (in this chapter, the ‘‘corporation’’) is a federally
chartered corporation.
(b) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE.—Except as otherwise provided, the corpora-
tion has perpetual existence.
§ 22902. Purposes
The purposes of corporation are—
(1) to preserve for ourselves and our posterity the great and basic
truths and enduring principles upon which this Nation was founded;
(2) to maintain a continuing interest in the welfare and rehabilita-
tion of the disabled veterans of World War II, the Korean conflict, and
the Vietnam era and to establish facilities for the assistance of all vet-
erans and to represent them in their claims before the Department of
Veterans Affairs and other organizations without charge;
(3) to dedicate ourselves to the service and best interests of the com-
munity, State, and Nation to the end that our country shall be and
remain forever a whole, strong, and free Nation;
(4) to aid and encourage the abolition of prejudice, ignorance, and
disease;
(5) to encourage universal exercise of the voting franchise to the end
that there shall be elected and maintained in public office men and
women who hold public office as a public trust administered in the best
interests of all the people;
(6) to advocate the development and means by which all Americans
may become enlightened and informed citizens and thus participate
fully in the functions of our democracy;
(7) to encourage and support an international organization of all
peace-loving nations to the end that not again shall any nation be per-
mitted to breach their national peace;
(8) to continue to serve the best interests of our Nation in peace as
in war;
(9) to develop to the utmost the human, mental, spiritual, and eco-
nomical resources of our Nation;
(10) to perpetuate and preserve the friendships and comradeship
born on the battle front and nurtured in the common experience of
service to our Nation during time of war; and
(11) to honor the memory of those men and women who gave their
lives that a free America and a free world might live by the creation
of living memorials in the form of additional educational, cultural, and
recreational facilities.
§ 22903. Membership
(a) ELIGIBILITY.—Except as provided in this chapter, eligibility for mem-
bership in the corporation and the rights and privileges of members are as
provided in the constitution and bylaws of the corporation.
(b) VOTING.—Each member has one vote in the conduct of official busi-
ness at the post level.
(c) NONDISCRIMINATION.—The terms of membership may not discrimi-
nate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
§ 22904. Governing body
(a) DELEGATES TO NATIONAL CONVENTIONS.—Each post may elect dele-
gates to national conventions of the corporation. The delegates each have
one vote in the conduct of business of the convention to which they are
elected.
(b) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE.—The executive committee of the corpora-
tion consists of—
(1) one member elected to represent each department; and
(2) the officers of the corporation as ex officio members.
(c) OFFICERS.—(1) The officers of the corporation are a national com-
mander, 7 national vice commanders, one of whom shall be a woman, a fi-
nance officer, an adjutant, a judge advocate, and a provost marshal.
(2) The officers shall be elected by the delegates at the annual national
convention.
(d) NONDISCRIMINATION.—The requirements for holding office in the
corporation may not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex,
or national origin.
§ 22905. Powers
(a) GENERAL.—The corporation may—
(1) adopt bylaws and regulations for the management of its property
and the regulation of its affairs;
(2) adopt seals, emblems, and badges;
(3) choose officers, representatives, and agents as necessary to carry
out the purposes of the corporation;
(4) make contracts;
(5) establish State and regional organizations and local posts;
(6) acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer property as necessary
to carry out the purposes of the corporation;
(7) borrow money, issue instruments of indebtedness, and secure its
obligations by granting security interests in its property;
(8) publish a magazine, newspaper, and other publications consistent
with the purposes of the corporation;
(9) sue and be sued; and
(10) do any other act necessary and proper to carry out the purposes
of the corporation.
(b) POWERS GRANTED
TO OTHER ORGANIZATIONS.—The provisions,
privileges, and prerogatives granted before July 24, 1947, to other national
veterans’ organizations because of their incorporation by Congress are
granted to the corporation.
§ 22906. Exclusive right to name, seals, emblems, and badges
The corporation and its State, regional, and local subdivisions have the
exclusive right to use the name ‘‘AMVETS (American Veterans of World
War II, Korea, and Vietnam)’’ and seals, emblems, and badges the corpora-
tion adopts.
§ 22907. Restrictions
(a) PROFIT.—The corporation shall operate as a not-for-profit corpora-
tion, exclusively for charitable, educational, patriotic, and civic improvement
purposes.
(b) STOCK AND DIVIDENDS.—The corporation may not issue stock or de-
clare or pay a dividend.
(c) POLITICAL ACTIVITIES.—The corporation or an officer of the corpora-
tion or member of its executive committee as such may not contribute to,
support, or assist a political party or candidate for elective public office. The
corporation may not carry on propaganda.
(d) DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME OR ASSETS.—The income or assets of the
corporation may not inure to the benefit of, or be distributed to, a director,
officer, or member of the corporation, except on dissolution or final liquida-
tion of the corporation.
(e) LOANS.—The corporation may not make a loan or advance to a direc-
tor or officer. Directors who vote for or assent to making a loan or advance
to a director or officer, and officers who participate in making the loan or
advance, are jointly and severally liable to the corporation for the amount
of the loan or advance until it is repaid.
§ 22908. Headquarters and principal place of business
The headquarters and principal place of business of the corporation shall
be in the District of Columbia. However, the activities of the corporation
are not confined to the District of Columbia but may be conducted through-
out the States, territories, and possessions of the United States.
§ 22909. Records and inspection
(a) RECORDS.—The corporation shall keep—
(1) correct and complete records of account;
(2) minutes of the proceedings of its members, executive committee,
and other committees; and
(3) at its registered or principal office, a record of the names and
addresses of its members entitled to vote.
(b) INSPECTION.—A member, or an agent or attorney of the member,
may inspect the records of the corporation for any proper purpose, at any
reasonable time.
§ 22910. Service of process
(a) DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.—The corporation shall have a designated
agent in the District of Columbia to receive service of process for the cor-
poration. Notice to or service on the agent, or mailed to the business ad-
dress of the agent, is notice to or service on the corporation.
(b) STATES.—As a condition to the exercise of any power or privilege
granted by this chapter, the corporation shall file, with the secretary of
state or other designated official of each State, the name and address of
an agent in that State on whom legal process or demands against the cor-
poration may be served.
§ 22911. Liability for acts of officials, representatives, and
agents
The corporation is liable for the acts of its officials, representatives, and
agents acting within the scope of their authority.
§ 22912. Distribution of assets on dissolution or final liq-
uidation
On dissolution or final liquidation of the corporation, any assets remain-
ing after the discharge or satisfactory provision for discharge of all liabilities
shall be transferred to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to be applied to
the care and comfort of disabled veterans of World War II, the Korean con-
flict, and the Vietnam era.
CHAPTER 231—ARMY AND NAVY UNION OF THE UNITED
STATES OF AMERICA
Sec.
23101.
Definition.
23102.
Organization.
23103.
Purposes.
23104.
Membership.
23105.
Governing body.
23106.
Powers.
23107.
Restrictions.
23108.
Duty to maintain corporate and tax-exempt status.
23109.
Records and inspection.
23110.
Service of process.
23111.
Liability for acts of officers and agents.
23112.
Annual report.
§ 23101. Definition
For purposes of this chapter, ‘‘State’’ includes the District of Columbia
and the territories and possessions of the United States.
§ 23102. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—Army and Navy Union of the United States of
America (in this chapter, the ‘‘corporation’’), incorporated in Ohio, is a fed-
erally chartered corporation.
(b) EXPIRATION OF CHARTER.—If the corporation does not comply with
any provision of this chapter, the charter granted by this chapter expires.
§ 23103. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are as provided in its articles of incorpo-
ration and include—
(1) holding true allegiance to the United States Government and fi-
delity to its Constitution, laws, and institutions;
(2) serving our Nation under God in peace as well as in war by fos-
tering the ideals of faith and patriotism, loyalty, justice, and liberty,
by inculcating in the hearts of young and old, through precept and
practice, the spirit of true Americanism, and by participating in civic
activities for the good of our country and our community;
(3) uniting in fraternal fellowship those who have served, or are now
serving, honorably in the armed forces of the United States;
(4) protecting and advancing their civic, social, and economic wel-
fare;
(5) aiding them in sickness and distress;
(6) assisting in the burial and commemoration of their dead and pro-
viding help for their widows and orphans; and
(7) perpetuating the memory of patriotic deeds performed by the de-
fenders of our country.
§ 23104. Membership
Eligibility for membership in the corporation and the rights and privileges
of members are as provided in the bylaws.
§ 23105. Governing body
(a) BOARD OF DIRECTORS.—The board of directors and the responsibil-
ities of the board are as provided in the articles of incorporation.
(b) OFFICERS.—The officers and the election of officers are as provided
in the articles of incorporation.
§ 23106. Powers
The corporation has only the powers provided in its bylaws and articles
of incorporation filed in each State in which it is incorporated.
§ 23107. Restrictions
(a) STOCK AND DIVIDENDS.—The corporation may not issue stock or de-
clare or pay a dividend.
(b) POLITICAL ACTIVITIES.—The corporation or a director or officer as
such may not contribute to, support, or participate in any political activity
or in any manner attempt to influence legislation.
(c) DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME OR ASSETS.—The income or assets of the
corporation may not inure to the benefit of, or be distributed to, a director,
officer, or member during the life of the charter granted by this chapter.
This subsection does not prevent the payment of reasonable compensation
to an officer or reimbursement for actual necessary expenses in amounts ap-
proved by the board of directors.
(d) LOANS.—The corporation may not make a loan to a director, officer,
or employee.
(e) CLAIM OF GOVERNMENTAL APPROVAL OR AUTHORITY.—The corpora-
tion may not claim congressional approval or the authority of the United
States Government for any of its activities.
§ 23108. Duty to maintain corporate and tax-exempt status
(a) CORPORATE STATUS.—The corporation shall maintain its status as a
corporation incorporated under the laws of Ohio.
(b) TAX-EXEMPT STATUS.—The corporation shall maintain its status as
an organization exempt from taxation under the Internal Revenue Code of
1986 (26 U.S.C. 1 et seq.).
§ 23109. Records and inspection
(a) RECORDS.—The corporation shall keep—
(1) correct and complete records of account;
(2) minutes of the proceedings of its members, board of directors,
and committees; and
(3) at its principal office, a record of the names and addresses of
its members entitled to vote.
(b) INSPECTION.—A member entitled to vote, or an agent or attorney of
the member, may inspect the records of the corporation for any proper pur-
pose, at any reasonable time.
§ 23110. Service of process
The corporation shall comply with the law on service of process of each
State in which it is incorporated and each State in which it carries on ac-
tivities.
§ 23111. Liability for acts of officers and agents
The corporation is liable for the acts of its officers and agents acting
within the scope of their authority.
§ 23112. Annual report
The corporation shall submit an annual report to Congress on the activi-
ties of the corporation during the prior fiscal year. The report shall be sub-
mitted at the same time as the report of the audit required by section
10101 of this title. The report may not be printed as a public document.
CHAPTER 233—AVIATION HALL OF FAME
Sec.
23301.
Organization.
23302.
Purposes.
23303.
Membership.
23304.
Governing body.
23305.
Powers.
23306.
Restrictions.
23307.
Principal office.
23308.
Records and inspection.
23309.
Statement required in audit report.
23310.
Service of process.
23311.
Liability for acts of officers and agents.
23312.
Distribution of assets on dissolution or final liquidation.
§ 23301. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—Aviation Hall of Fame (in this chapter, the
‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE.—Except as otherwise provided, the corpora-
tion has perpetual existence.
§ 23302. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are—
(1) to receive and maintain one or more funds and to use any part
of the principal and income only for charitable, scientific, literary, or
educational purposes, either directly or by contributing to organizations
authorized to carry on similar activities;
(2) to honor citizens, aviation leaders, pilots, teachers, scientists, en-
gineers, inventors, governmental leaders, and other individuals who
have helped to make this Nation great by their outstanding contribu-
tions to the establishment, development, advancement, or improvement
of aviation in the United States;
(3) to perpetuate the memory of those individuals and record their
contributions and achievements by the erection and maintenance of
buildings and monuments as may be appropriate as a lasting memorial;
(4) to promote a better sense of appreciation of the origins and
growth of aviation, especially in the United States, and the part avia-
tion has played in changing the economic, social, and scientific aspects
of our Nation;
(5) to establish and maintain a library and museum for the collection
and preservation for posterity of the history of those honored by the
organization, together with a documentation of their accomplishments
and contributions to aviation, including items such as aviation pictures,
paintings, books, papers, documents, scientific data, relics, mementos,
artifacts, and other items related to that history;
(6) to cooperate with other recognized aviation organizations actively
engaged and interested in similar projects; and
(7) to engage in any other activities appropriate to carry out the
purposes of the corporation.
§ 23303. Membership
(a) ELIGIBILITY.—Except as provided in this chapter, eligibility for mem-
bership in the corporation and the rights, privileges, and designation of
classes of members are as provided in the bylaws.
(b) VOTING.—Each member given voting rights by the bylaws has one
vote on each matter submitted to a vote at a meeting of the voting mem-
bers. The vote may be cast in the manner provided in the bylaws.
§ 23304. Governing body
(a) BOARD OF TRUSTEES.—(1) The board of trustees is the governing
body of the corporation. Between meetings of the members of the corpora-
tion, the board is responsible for the general policies and program of the
corporation and for the control of all funds of the corporation.
(2) The number of trustees, their manner of selection (including the fill-
ing of vacancies), and their term of office are as provided in the bylaws.
However, the board shall have at least 18 members.
(3) The board may appoint committees. Each committee has the powers
provided in the bylaws or by resolution of the board. The powers of a com-
mittee may include all the powers of the board.
(b) OFFICERS.—(1) The officers of the corporation are a president, one
or more vice presidents as provided in the bylaws, a secretary, a treasurer,
and other officers as provided in the bylaws.
(2) The manner of election, term of office, and duties of the officers are
as provided in the bylaws.
(c)(1) BOARD OF NOMINATIONS.—The board of trustees shall appoint a
board of nominations, consisting of at least 24 members, from members of
the corporation not concurrently serving as members of the board of trust-
ees. Those individuals serve for the term provided in the bylaws.
(2) The board of nominations shall nominate United States citizens or
residents to be honored by the corporation and recommend those persons
to the board of trustees for consideration as provided in the bylaws.
§ 23305. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt and amend bylaws for the management of its property and
the regulation of its affairs;
(2) adopt and alter a corporate seal;
(3) choose officers, trustees, managers, agents, and employees as the
activities of the corporation require;
(4) make contracts;
(5) acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer property as necessary
or convenient to carry out the purposes of the corporation;
(6) borrow money, issue instruments of indebtedness, and secure its
obligations by granting security interests in its property; and
(7) sue and be sued.
§ 23306. Restrictions
(a) STOCK AND DIVIDENDS.—The corporation may not issue stock or de-
clare or pay a dividend.
(b) POLITICAL ACTIVITIES.—The corporation or a trustee, officer, em-
ployee, member of the board of nominations, or member of the corporation
as such may not contribute to, support, or assist a political party or can-
didate for public office.
(c) DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME OR ASSETS.—The income or assets of the
corporation may not inure to the benefit of, or be distributed to, a trustee,
officer, member of the board of nominations, or member of the corporation,
as such, during the life of the corporation or on its dissolution or final liq-
uidation. This subsection does not prevent the payment of reasonable com-
pensation to an officer or employee in an amount approved by the board
of trustees.
(d) LOANS.—The corporation may not make a loan or advance to a trust-
ee, officer, employee, member of the board of nominations, or member of
the corporation. Trustees who vote for or assent to making such a loan or
advance, and officers who participate in making the loan or advance, are
jointly and severally liable to the corporation for the amount of the loan or
advance until it is repaid.
(e) CONTRIBUTIONS TO CERTAIN ORGANIZATIONS.—None of the prin-
cipal or interest of a fund referred to in section 23302(1) of this title may
be contributed to an organization if—
(1) a substantial part of its activities is carrying on propaganda or
attempting to influence legislation; or
(2) any part of its net earnings benefits a private shareholder or in-
dividual.
§ 23307. Principal office
The principal office of the corporation shall be in Dayton, Ohio, or an-
other place decided by the board of trustees. However, the activities of the
corporation are not confined to the place where the principal office is lo-
cated but may be conducted throughout the States, territories, and posses-
sions of the United States.
§ 23308. Records and inspection
(a) RECORDS.—The corporation shall keep—
(1) correct and complete records of account;
(2) minutes of the proceedings of its members, board of trustees,
board of nominations, and committees; and
(3) at its principal office, a record of the names and addresses of
its members entitled to vote.
(b) INSPECTION.—A member entitled to vote, or an agent or attorney of
the member, may inspect the records of the corporation for any proper pur-
pose, at any reasonable time.
§ 23309. Statement required in audit report
The corporation shall include in the audit report statement required
under section 10101(b)(1)(B) of this title a schedule of all contracts requir-
ing payments greater than $10,000 and all payments of compensation or
fees at a rate greater than $10,000 a year.
§ 23310. Service of process
The corporation shall have a designated agent in the District of Columbia
to receive service of process for the corporation. Notice to or service on the
agent is notice to or service on the corporation.
§ 23311. Liability for acts of officers and agents
The corporation is liable for the acts of its officers and agents acting
within the scope of their authority.
§ 23312. Distribution of assets on dissolution or final liq-
uidation
On dissolution or final liquidation of the corporation, any assets remain-
ing after the discharge of all liabilities shall be distributed as provided by
the board of trustees, but consistent with the purposes of the corporation
and in compliance with the charter and bylaws.
CHAPTER 301—BELLEAU WOOD MEMORIAL
ASSOCIATION
Sec.
30101.
Organization.
30102.
Purposes.
30103.
Governing body.
30104.
Powers.
30105.
Annual report.
§ 30101. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—Belleau Wood Memorial Association (in this
chapter, the ‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE.—Except as otherwise provided, the corpora-
tion has perpetual existence.
§ 30102. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are—
(1) to acquire and maintain the whole or any part of Belleau Wood,
Department of Aisne, France, for memorial purposes;
(2) to erect buildings and monuments and establish institutions in
Belleau Wood that the corporation considers appropriate as a memorial
to the men of the American Expeditionary Forces who participated in
the Battle of Belleau Wood, France, and vicinity during World War I;
(3) to solicit and obtain members;
(4) to charge and collect membership dues, and to solicit and receive
contributions of money to carry out those purposes; and
(5) to care for and maintain the memorial.
§ 30103. Governing body
The corporation may choose a board of trustees consisting of at least 5
but not more than 15 individuals to carry out the powers and activities of
the corporation.
§ 30104. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt and amend bylaws;
(2) adopt and alter a corporate seal;
(3) establish and maintain offices to conduct its activities;
(4) appoint officers and agents;
(5) acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer property as necessary
or appropriate to carry out the purposes of the corporation, and espe-
cially the whole or any part of Belleau Wood, Department of Aisne,
France, to the extent that it may be or become consistent with, or per-
mitted by, the laws of the French Republic;
(6) sue and be sued; and
(7) do any other act necessary or appropriate to carry out the pur-
poses of the corporation.
§ 30105. Annual report
Not later than December 1 of each year, the corporation shall submit a
report to Congress on the activities of the corporation during the prior cal-
endar year. The report may not be printed as a public document.
CHAPTER 303—BIG BROTHERS—BIG SISTERS OF
AMERICA
Sec.
30301.
Organization.
30302.
Purposes.
30303.
Membership.
30304.
Governing body.
30305.
Powers.
30306.
Exclusive right to names, seals, emblems, and badges.
30307.
Restrictions.
30308.
Principal office.
30309.
Records and inspection.
30310.
Service of process.
30311.
Liability for acts of officers and agents.
30312.
Distribution of assets on dissolution or final liquidation.
§ 30301. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—Big Brothers—Big Sisters of America (in this
chapter, the ‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PLACE OF INCORPORATION AND DOMICILE.—The corporation is de-
clared to be incorporated and domiciled in the District of Columbia.
(c) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE.—Except as otherwise provided, the corpora-
tion has perpetual existence.
§ 30302. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are—
(1) to assist individuals throughout the United States in solving their
social and economic problems and in their health and educational and
character development;
(2) to promote the use, by other lay and professional agencies and
workers, of the techniques of that assistance developed by the corpora-
tion; and
(3) to receive, invest, and disburse funds and hold property for the
purposes of the corporation.
§ 30303. Membership
(a) ELIGIBILITY.—Except as provided in this chapter, eligibility for mem-
bership in the corporation and the rights, privileges, and designation of
classes of members are as provided in the constitution and bylaws of the
corporation.
(b) VOTING.—Each member has one vote on each matter submitted to
a vote at a meeting of the members.
§ 30304. Governing body
(a) BOARD OF DIRECTORS.—(1) The board of directors is the governing
body of the corporation. The powers, duties, and responsibilities of the
board are as provided in the constitution and bylaws of the corporation.
(2) The number of directors is as provided in the constitution. Their
manner of selection (including the filling of vacancies) and their term of of-
fice are as provided in the constitution and bylaws.
(b) OFFICERS.—(1) The officers of the corporation are a chairman of the
board of directors, a president, one or more vice presidents as provided in
the constitution and bylaws, a secretary, and a treasurer.
(2) The manner of election, term of office, and duties of the officers are
as provided in the constitution and bylaws.
§ 30305. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt and amend a constitution and bylaws for the management
of its property and the regulation of its affairs;
(2) adopt and alter a corporate seal;
(3) choose officers, managers, agents, and employees as the activities
of the corporation require;
(4) make contracts;
(5) acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer property as necessary
or convenient to carry out the purposes of the corporation;
(6) borrow money, issue instruments of indebtedness, and secure its
obligations by granting security interests in its property; and
(7) sue and be sued.
§ 30306. Exclusive right to names, seals, emblems, and
badges
The corporation and its subordinate divisions have the exclusive right to
use the names ‘‘The Big Brothers of America, Big Sisters International, In-
corporated’’, ‘‘Big Sisters of America’’, ‘‘Big Brothers’’, ‘‘Big Sisters’’, ‘‘Big
Brothers—Big Sisters of America’’, and ‘‘Big Sisters—Big Brothers’’, and
to use and to allow others to use seals, emblems, and badges the corporation
adopts.
§ 30307. Restrictions
(a) STOCK AND DIVIDENDS.—The corporation may not issue stock or de-
clare or pay a dividend.
(b) POLITICAL ACTIVITIES.—The corporation or a director or officer as
such may not contribute to, support, or assist a political party or candidate
for public office.
(c) DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME OR ASSETS.—The income or assets of the
corporation may not inure to the benefit of, or be distributed to, a director,
officer, or member as such during the life of the corporation or on its dis-
solution or final liquidation. This subsection does not prevent the payment
of compensation to an officer in an amount approved by the board of direc-
tors.
(d) LOANS.—The corporation may not make a loan or advance to a direc-
tor, officer, or employee. Directors who vote for or assent to making a loan
or advance to a director, officer, or employee, and officers who participate
in making the loan or advance, are jointly and severally liable to the cor-
poration for the amount of the loan or advance until it is repaid.
§ 30308. Principal office
The principal office of the corporation shall be in Philadelphia, Penn-
sylvania, or another place decided by the board of directors. However, the
activities of the corporation are not confined to the place where the principal
office is located but may be conducted throughout the States, territories,
and possessions of the United States.
§ 30309. Records and inspection
(a) RECORDS.—The corporation shall keep—
(1) correct and complete records of account;
(2) minutes of the proceedings of its members, board of directors,
and committees; and
(3) at its principal office, a record of the names and addresses of
its members entitled to vote.
(b) INSPECTION.—A member entitled to vote, or an agent or attorney of
the member, may inspect the records of the corporation for any proper pur-
pose, at any reasonable time.
§ 30310. Service of process
The corporation shall have a designated agent in the District of Columbia
to receive service of process for the corporation. Notice to or service on the
agent, or mailed to the business address of the agent, is notice to or service
on the corporation.
§ 30311. Liability for acts of officers and agents
The corporation is liable for the acts of its officers and agents acting
within the scope of their authority.
§ 30312. Distribution of assets on dissolution or final liq-
uidation
On dissolution or final liquidation of the corporation, any assets remain-
ing after the discharge of all liabilities shall be distributed as provided by
the board of directors, but in compliance with the constitution and bylaws
of the corporation.
CHAPTER 305—BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION
Sec.
30501.
Organization.
30502.
Purposes.
30503.
Membership.
30504.
Governing body.
30505.
Powers.
30506.
Exclusive right to name, seals, emblems, and badges.
30507.
Restrictions.
30508.
Principal office.
30509.
Records and inspection.
30510.
Service of process.
30511.
Liability for acts of officers and agents.
30512.
Distribution of assets on dissolution or final liquidation.
§ 30501. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—Blinded Veterans Association (in this chapter,
the ‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE.—Except as otherwise provided, the corpora-
tion has perpetual existence.
§ 30502. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are—
(1) to operate as a not-for-profit corporation exclusively for chari-
table, educational, patriotic, and civic improvement purposes;
(2) to promote the welfare of blinded veterans so that, notwithstand-
ing their disabilities, they may take their rightful place in the commu-
nity and work with their fellow citizens toward the creation of a peace-
ful world;
(3) to preserve and strengthen a spirit of fellowship among blinded
veterans so that they may give mutual aid and assistance to one an-
other; and
(4) to maintain and extend the institutions of American freedom and
to encourage loyalty to the Constitution and laws of the United States
and of the States in which they reside.
§ 30503. Membership
(a) GENERAL MEMBERSHIP.—An individual who served in the armed
forces of the United States and who, in the line of duty in that service, sus-
tained a substantial impairment of sight or vision as defined by the bylaws
of the corporation is eligible for general membership in the corporation.
(b) HONORARY AND ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP.—In addition to general
membership, the corporation shall have special classes of honorary and asso-
ciate membership. Eligibility for, and the rights and obligations of, those
special classes are as provided in the bylaws.
§ 30504. Governing body
(a) BOARD OF DIRECTORS.—(1) The number of directors of the corpora-
tion shall be at least 3 but not more than 15. The directors shall be divided
into a specified number of classes. Each class shall hold office for a definite
period of years as provided in the bylaws.
(2) A majority of the directors must be present at a meeting of directors
to constitute a quorum. A majority vote of the directors present at a meet-
ing at which there is a quorum is necessary for the transaction of business.
(3) A director may be removed at any time for just and proper cause by
a majority vote of a quorum of directors present at a meeting called for
that purpose.
(4) A vacancy in the office of director may be filled by a majority vote
of a quorum of the remaining directors present at a meeting called for that
purpose. A director elected to fill a vacancy serves until the next annual
meeting of the corporation.
(b) OFFICERS.—The officers of the corporation and their manner of elec-
tion, term of office, duties, and powers are as provided in the bylaws.
§ 30505. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt and amend a constitution and bylaws for the management
of its property and the regulation of its affairs;
(2) adopt and alter a corporate seal;
(3) choose officers, managers, and agents as the activities of the cor-
poration require;
(4) charge and collect membership dues;
(5) make contracts;
(6) acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer property as necessary
or convenient to carry out the purposes of the corporation;
(7) borrow money, issue instruments of indebtedness, and secure its
obligations by granting security interests in its property;
(8) sue and be sued; and
(9) do any other act necessary and proper to carry out the purposes
of the corporation.
§ 30506. Exclusive right to name, seals, emblems, and badges
The corporation and its authorized regional groups and other local sub-
divisions have the exclusive right to use the name ‘‘Blinded Veterans Asso-
ciation’’ and seals, emblems, and badges the corporation adopts.
§ 30507. Restrictions
(a) STOCK AND DIVIDENDS.—The corporation may not issue stock or de-
clare or pay a dividend.
(b) POLITICAL ACTIVITIES.—The corporation or a director or officer as
such may not contribute to, support, or assist a political party or candidate
for elective public office.
(c) DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME OR ASSETS.—The income or assets of the
corporation may not inure to the benefit of, or be distributed to, a director,
officer, or member as such during the life of the corporation or on its dis-
solution or final liquidation. This section does not prevent the payment of—
(1) bona fide expenses of officers of the corporation in amounts ap-
proved by the board of directors; or
(2) appropriate aid to blinded veterans or their widows or children
in carrying out the purposes of the corporation.
(d) LOANS.—The corporation may not make a loan to a director, officer,
or employee. Directors and officers who vote for or assent to making a loan
to a director, officer, or employee, and officers who participate in making
the loan, are jointly and severally liable to the corporation for the amount
of the loan until it is repaid.
(e) IMMUNITY FROM LIABILITY.—Members and private individuals are
not liable for the obligations of the corporation.
§ 30508. Principal office
The principal office of the corporation shall be in the District of Columbia
or another place decided by the board of directors. However, the activities
of the corporation are not confined to the place where the principal office
is located but may be conducted throughout the States, territories, and pos-
sessions of the United States.
§ 30509. Records and inspection
(a) RECORDS.—The corporation shall keep—
(1) correct and complete records of account;
(2) minutes of the proceedings of its members, board of directors,
and committees; and
(3) at its principal office, a record of the names and addresses of
its members, directors, and officers.
(b) INSPECTION.—A member, or an agent or attorney of the member,
may inspect the records of the corporation for any proper purpose, at any
reasonable time.
§ 30510. Service of process
The corporation shall have a designated agent in the District of Columbia
to receive service of process for the corporation. Notice to or service on the
agent, or mailed to the business address of the agent, is notice to or service
on the corporation.
§ 30511. Liability for acts of officers and agents
The corporation is liable for the acts of its officers and agents acting
within the scope of their authority.
§ 30512. Distribution of assets on dissolution or final liq-
uidation
On dissolution or final liquidation of the corporation, any assets remain-
ing after the discharge of all liabilities shall be transferred to the Secretary
of Veterans Affairs to be applied to the care and comfort of blinded veter-
ans.
CHAPTER 307—BLUE STAR MOTHERS OF AMERICA, INC.
Sec.
30701.
Definition.
30702.
Organization.
30703.
Purposes.
30704.
Membership.
30705.
Governing body.
30706.
Powers.
30707.
Exclusive right to name, seals, emblems, and badges.
30708.
Restrictions.
30709.
Principal office.
30710.
Records and inspection.
30711.
Service of process.
30712.
Liability for acts of officers and agents.
30713.
Annual report.
30714.
Distribution of assets on dissolution or final liquidation.
§ 30701. Definition
For purposes of this chapter, ‘‘armed forces’’ includes the United States
Army, United States Navy, United States Marines, United States Air
Force, United States Coast Guard, National Guard, United States Army
Reserves, United States Navy Reserves, United States Marine Reserves,
United States Air Force Reserves, United States Coast Guard Reserves,
United States Naval Militia, merchant marines, and armed home guards
who have served on active duty.
§ 30702. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc. (in this
chapter, the ‘‘corporation’’), is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PLACE OF INCORPORATION AND DOMICILE.—The corporation is de-
clared to be incorporated and domiciled in the District of Columbia.
(c) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE.—Except as otherwise provided, the corpora-
tion has perpetual existence.
§ 30703. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are patriotic, educational, social, and for
service, and include—
(1) perpetuating the Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc., and the
memory of all the men and women who have served our country as
members of the armed forces;
(2) maintaining true allegiance to the Government of the United
States;
(3) educating members of the corporation and others not to divulge
military, naval, or other Government information;
(4) assisting in veterans’ ceremonies;
(5) attending patriotic rallies and meetings;
(6) fostering true democracy;
(7) caring for unsupported mothers who gave their sons to the serv-
ice of the nation;
(8) aiding in bringing about recognition of the need for permanent
civilian defense in each community and the need to be always alert
against invasion of un-American activities;
(9) upholding the American institutions of freedom, justice, and
equal rights; and
(10) defending the United States from all enemies.
§ 30704. Membership
An individual is eligible for membership in the corporation if—
(1) she is a mother, adoptive mother, or stepmother (who has given
a mother’s care at least since the stepchild was age 13) of a son or
daughter who—
(A) is serving in the armed forces; or
(B) has served in, or has been honorably discharged from, the
armed forces in World War II or the Korean hostilities; and
(2) she is living in the United States.
§ 30705. Governing body
(a) NATIONAL CONVENTION.—(1) The national convention is the supreme
governing authority of the corporation.
(2) The national convention is composed of officers and elected represent-
atives from the States and other local subdivisions of the corporation as pro-
vided in the constitution and bylaws. However, the form of government of
the corporation must be representative of the membership at large and may
not permit concentration of control in a limited number of members or in
a self-perpetuating group not representative of the membership at large.
(3) The meetings of the national convention may be held in the District
of Columbia or any State, territory, or possession of the United States.
(b) OFFICERS.—The officers of the corporation and their manner of se-
lection, term of office, and duties are as provided in the constitution and
bylaws of the corporation.
§ 30706. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt and amend a constitution and bylaws for the management
of its property and the regulation of its affairs;
(2) adopt and alter a corporate seal;
(3) choose officers, managers, employees, and agents as the activities
of the corporation require;
(4) make contracts;
(5) acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer property as necessary
or convenient to carry out the purposes of the corporation;
(6) borrow money, issue instruments of indebtedness, and secure its
obligations by granting security interests in its property;
(7) sue and be sued; and
(8) do any other act necessary and proper to carry out the purposes
of the corporation.
§ 30707. Exclusive right to name, seals, emblems, and badges
The corporation and its subordinate divisions have the exclusive right to
use the name ‘‘Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc.’’. The corporation has
the exclusive right to use, and to allow others to use, seals, emblems, and
badges the corporation adopts.
§ 30708. Restrictions
(a) STOCK AND DIVIDENDS.—The corporation may not issue stock or de-
clare or pay a dividend.
(b) POLITICAL ACTIVITIES.—The corporation or an officer or agent as
such may not contribute to a political party or candidate for public office.
(c) DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME OR ASSETS.—The income or assets of the
corporation may not inure to the benefit of, or be distributed to, an officer
or member as such during the life of the corporation or on its dissolution
or final liquidation. This subsection does not prevent the payment of com-
pensation to an officer or reimbursement for actual necessary expenses in
amounts approved by the council of administration of the corporation.
(d) LOANS.—The corporation may not make a loan or advance to an offi-
cer or employee. Members of the council of administration who vote for or
assent to making a loan or advance to an officer or employee, and officers
who participate in making the loan or advance, are jointly and severally lia-
ble to the corporation for the amount of the loan or advance until it is re-
paid.
§ 30709. Principal office
The principal office of the corporation shall be in the District of Colum-
bia.
§ 30710. Records and inspection
(a) RECORDS.—The corporation shall keep—
(1) correct and complete records of account; and
(2) minutes of the proceedings of its national conventions and coun-
cil of administration.
(b) INSPECTION.—A member, or an agent or attorney of the member,
may inspect the records of the corporation for any proper purpose, at any
reasonable time.
§ 30711. Service of process
The corporation shall have a designated agent in the District of Columbia
to receive service of process, notice, or demand for the corporation. Designa-
tion of the agent shall be filed in the office of the Mayor of the District
of Columbia or another office designated by the Mayor. Notice to or service
on the agent is notice to or service on the corporation.
§ 30712. Liability for acts of officers and agents
The corporation is liable for the acts of its officers and agents acting
within the scope of their authority.
§ 30713. Annual report
Not later than March 1 of each year, the corporation shall submit a re-
port to Congress on the activities of the corporation during the prior fiscal
year. The report may consist of a report of the proceedings of the national
convention. The report may not be printed as a public document.
§ 30714. Distribution of assets on dissolution or final liq-
uidation
On dissolution or final liquidation of the corporation, any assets remain-
ing after the discharge of all liabilities shall be distributed as provided by
the national executive board, but in compliance with the constitution and
bylaws of the corporation.
CHAPTER 309—BOARD FOR FUNDAMENTAL EDUCATION
Sec.
30901.
Organization.
30902.
Purpose.
30903.
Membership.
30904.
Governing body.
30905.
Powers.
30906.
Exclusive right to name, seals, emblems, and badges.
30907.
Restrictions.
30908.
Principal office.
30909.
Records and inspection.
30910.
Service of process.
30911.
Liability for acts of officers and agents.
30912.
Distribution of assets on dissolution or final liquidation.
§ 30901. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—Board for Fundamental Education (in this
chapter, the ‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE.—Except as otherwise provided, the corpora-
tion has perpetual existence.
§ 30902. Purpose
The purpose of the corporation is to foster the development of fundamen-
tal education through programs and projects such as—
(1) giving citizens (children, youth, and adults) an opportunity to ac-
quire the understandings and skills necessary to relate the resources of
the community to the needs and interests of the community;
(2) demonstrating programs of fundamental education and measur-
ing results; and
(3) training men and women as leaders in fundamental education by
providing internships and other experiences.
§ 30903. Membership
(a) ELIGIBILITY.—Except as provided in this chapter, eligibility for mem-
bership in the corporation and the rights and privileges of members are as
provided in constitution and bylaws of the corporation.
(b) VOTING.—Each member has one vote in the conduct of official busi-
ness of the corporation.
§ 30904. Governing body
(a) BOARD OF DIRECTORS.—The board of directors is the governing body
of the corporation. The board shall consist of at least 15 directors elected
annually by the members.
(b) OFFICERS.—The officers of the corporation are a chairman of the
board, a president, one or more vice presidents, a secretary, a treasurer, and
any assistant officers designated by the board. The officers have the powers
and shall carry out the duties provided in the bylaws or prescribed by the
board.
§ 30905. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt and amend a constitution and bylaws for the management
of its property and the regulation of its affairs;
(2) adopt and alter a corporate seal;
(3) choose officers, managers, agents, and employees as the activities
of the corporation require;
(4) make contracts;
(5) acquire, own, lease, encumber, and transfer property as necessary
to carry out the purposes of the corporation;
(6) borrow money, issue instruments of indebtedness, and secure its
obligations by granting security interests in its property;
(7) use corporate funds to give prizes, awards, loans, scholarships,
and grants to deserving students to carry out the purpose of the cor-
poration;
(8) publish a magazine and other publications;
(9) sue and be sued; and
(10) do any other act necessary and proper to carry out the purpose
of the corporation.
§ 30906. Exclusive right to name, seals, emblems, and badges
The corporation has the exclusive right to use the name ‘‘Board for Fun-
damental Education’’ and seals, emblems, and badges the corporation
adopts.
§ 30907. Restrictions
(a) PROFIT.—The corporation may not engage in business for profit.
(b) STOCK AND DIVIDENDS.—The corporation may not issue stock or de-
clare or pay a dividend.
(c) POLITICAL ACTIVITIES.—The corporation or a director, officer, or
member as such may not contribute to, support, or assist a political party
or candidate for elective public office.
(d) DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME OR ASSETS.—The income or assets of the
corporation may not inure to the benefit of, or be distributed to, a director,
officer, or member except on dissolution or final liquidation of the corpora-
tion.
(e) LOANS.—The corporation may not make a loan to a director, officer,
or employee. Directors who vote for or assent to making a loan to a direc-
tor, officer, or employee, and officers who participate in making the loan,
are jointly and severally liable to the corporation for the amount of the loan
until it is repaid.
§ 30908. Principal office
The principal office of the corporation shall be in a place the board of
directors decides is appropriate. However, the activities of the corporation
may be conducted throughout the States, territories, and possessions of the
United States.
§ 30909. Records and inspection
(a) RECORDS.—The corporation shall keep—
(1) correct and complete records of account;
(2) minutes of the proceedings of its members, board of directors,
and committees; and
(3) a record of the names and addresses of its members entitled to
vote.
(b) INSPECTION.—A member, or an agent or attorney of the member,
may inspect the records of the corporation at any reasonable time.
§ 30910. Service of process
(a) DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.—The corporation shall have a designated
agent in the District of Columbia to receive service of process for the cor-
poration. Designation of the agent shall be filed in the office of the clerk
of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. Notice to
or service on the agent, or mailed to the business address of the agent, is
notice to or service on the corporation.
(b) STATES, TERRITORIES, AND POSSESSIONS.—As a condition to the ex-
ercise of any power or privilege granted by this chapter, the corporation
shall file, with the secretary of state or other designated official of each
State, territory, or possession of the United States in which the corporation
does business, the name and address of an agent in that State, territory,
or possession on whom legal process or demands against the corporation
may be served.
§ 30911. Liability for acts of officers and agents
The corporation is liable for the acts of its officers and agents acting
within the scope of their authority.
§ 30912. Distribution of assets on dissolution or final liq-
uidation
On dissolution or final liquidation of the corporation, any assets remain-
ing after the discharge of all liabilities shall be used by the board of direc-
tors for the purpose stated in section 30902 of this title or be transferred
to a recognized educational foundation.
CHAPTER 311—BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA
Sec.
31101.
Organization.
31102.
Purposes.
31103.
Governing body.
31104.
Powers.
31105.
Exclusive right to emblems, badges, marks, and words.
31106.
Restrictions.
31107.
Annual and special meetings.
31108.
Annual report.
§ 31101. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—Boy Scouts of America (in this chapter, the
‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PLACE OF INCORPORATION AND DOMICILE.—The corporation is de-
clared to be incorporated and domiciled in the District of Columbia.
(c) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE.—Except as otherwise provided, the corpora-
tion has perpetual existence.
§ 31102. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are to promote, through organization,
and cooperation with other agencies, the ability of boys to do things for
themselves and others, to train them in scoutcraft, and to teach them patri-
otism, courage, self-reliance, and kindred virtues, using the methods that
were in common use by boy scouts on June 15, 1916.
§ 31103. Governing body
(a) EXECUTIVE BOARD.—An executive board composed of citizens of the
United States is the governing body of the corporation. The number, quali-
fications, and term of office of members of the board are as provided in
the bylaws. A vacancy on the board shall be filled by a majority vote of the
remaining members of the board.
(b) QUORUM.—The bylaws may prescribe the number of members of the
board necessary for a quorum. That number may be less than a majority
of the entire board.
(c) COMMITTEES.—(1) The board, by resolution passed by a majority of
the entire board, may designate 3 or more members of the board as an exec-
utive or governing committee. A majority of the committee is a quorum. The
committee, to the extent provided in the resolution or bylaws, may—
(A) exercise the powers of the executive board in managing the ac-
tivities of the corporation; and
(B) authorize the seal of the corporation to be affixed to papers that
may require it.
(2) The board, by majority vote of the entire board, may appoint other
standing committees. The standing committees may exercise powers as pro-
vided in the bylaws.
§ 31104. Powers
(a) GENERAL.—The corporation may—
(1) adopt and amend bylaws and regulations, including regulations
for the election of associates and successors;
(2) adopt and alter a corporate seal;
(3) have offices and conduct its activities in the District of Columbia
and the States, territories, and possessions of the United States;
(4) acquire and own property as necessary to carry out the purposes
of the corporation;
(5) sue and be sued within the jurisdiction of the United States; and
(6) do any other act necessary to carry out this chapter and promote
the purpose of the corporation.
(b) LIMITATIONS ON EXERCISING CERTAIN POWERS.—(1) The corpora-
tion may execute mortgages and liens on the property of the corporation
only if approved by a two-thirds vote of the entire executive board at a
meeting called for that purpose.
(2) The corporation may dispose in any manner of the whole property of
the corporation only with the written consent and affirmative vote of a ma-
jority of the members of the corporation.
§ 31105. Exclusive right to emblems, badges, marks, and
words
The corporation has the exclusive right to use emblems, badges, descrip-
tive or designating marks, and words or phrases the corporation adopts.
This section does not affect any vested rights.
§ 31106. Restrictions
(a) PROFIT.—The corporation may not operate for pecuniary profit to its
members.
(b) STOCKS AND DIVIDENDS.—The corporation may not issue stock or
declare or pay a dividend.
§ 31107. Annual and special meetings
(a) ANNUAL MEETINGS.—The corporation shall hold an annual meeting
at a time and place as provided in the bylaws. At the meeting, the annual
reports of the officers and executive board shall be presented, and members
of the board shall be elected for the next year.
(b) SPECIAL MEETINGS.—Special meetings of the corporation may be
called on notice as provided in the bylaws.
(c) QUORUM.—The number of members necessary for a quorum at an an-
nual or special meeting shall be prescribed in the bylaws.
(d) LOCATIONS.—The members and the executive board may hold meet-
ings and keep the seal and records of the corporation in or outside the Dis-
trict of Columbia.
§ 31108. Annual report
Not later than April 1 of each year, the corporation shall submit a report
to Congress on the activities of the corporation during the prior calendar
year.
CHAPTER 313—BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF AMERICA
Sec.
31301.
Organization.
31302.
Purposes.
31303.
Membership.
31304.
Governing body.
31305.
Powers.
31306.
Restrictions.
31307.
Principal office.
31308.
Records and inspection.
31309.
Service of process.
31310.
Liability for acts of officers and agents.
31311.
Distribution of assets on dissolution or final liquidation.
§ 31301. Organization
(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—Boys & Girls Clubs of America (in this chap-
ter, the ‘‘corporation’’) is a federally chartered corporation.
(b) PLACE OF INCORPORATION AND DOMICILE.—The corporation is de-
clared to be incorporated and domiciled in the District of Columbia.
(c) PERPETUAL EXISTENCE.—Except as otherwise provided, the corpora-
tion has perpetual existence.
§ 31302. Purposes
The purposes of the corporation are—
(1) to promote the health, social, educational, vocational, and char-
acter development of youth throughout the United States; and
(2) to receive, invest, and disburse funds and to hold property for
the purposes of the corporation.
§ 31303. Membership
(a) ELIGIBILITY.—Except as provided in this chapter, eligibility for mem-
bership in the corporation and the rights, privileges, and designation of
classes of members are as provided in the constitution and bylaws of the
corporation.
(b) VOTING.—Each member has one vote on each matter submitted to
a vote at a meeting of the members.
(c) BENEFITS OF MEMBER ORGANIZATIONS.—Each organization that is
a member of the corporation as provided in the constitution of the corpora-
tion is entitled to all the benefits of incorporation under this chapter. Those
benefits cease immediately on termination of membership, whether by—
(1) resignation from the corporation; or
(2) termination of its membership by the board of directors of the
corporation as provided in the constitution.
§ 31304. Governing body
(a) BOARD OF DIRECTORS.—(1) The board of directors is the governing
body of the corporation. The powers, duties, and responsibilities of the
board are as provided in the constitution and bylaws of the corporation.
(2) The number of directors is as provided in the constitution of the cor-
poration. Their manner of selection (including the filling of vacancies) and
their term of office are as provided in the constitution and bylaws.
(b) OFFICERS.—(1) The officers of the corporation are a chairman of the
board of directors, a president, one or more vice presidents as provided in
the constitution and bylaws, a secretary, a treasurer, and one or more as-
sistant secretaries and assistant treasurers as provided in the constitution
and bylaws.
(2) The manner of election, term of office, and duties of the officers are
as provided in the constitution and bylaws.
§ 31305. Powers
The corporation may—
(1) adopt and amend a constitution and bylaws for the management
of its property and the regulation of its affairs;
(2) adopt and alter a corporate seal;