Of all the mass media, radio is the most abundant, both in terms of the number of radio stations in operation and the number of radio receivers in use. Unfortunately, given the dynamics of a competitive market and the Federal Communications Commission's reluctance to interfere with a licensee's discretion in the choice of format, format…

Discussion of the effects of copyright on microcomputer software highlights the nature of copyright and situations in which the copying of copyrighted software may be permitted. Rights that a purchaser should insist upon when contracting for computer equipment are noted, i.e., right to test hardware and software prior to purchase. (EJS)

Discusses problems in implementing the basic environmental law, The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA). Lists 10 principles (in the form of "commandments") for use by decision makers, suggesting that they serve as guidelines for actions involving environmental and social considerations. (Author/JN)

Discusses the 1976 copyright law with respect to its impact on videotex technology and addresses the problems of copyright for collections of data, exclusive rights of copyright holders, notice and deposit, and regulation. Three related court decisions are also examined. (Author/JJD)

A critique of federal education policy discusses questionable purposes, flaws in aid-dispensing mechanisms, and undue regulatory burdens and other constraints. The proper federal role in education is described, involving information dissemination, educational improvement through federal programs, compensation, and financial assistance. (CJ)

Discusses the implementation of the merit pay system in the federal government and the ten unsurmountable problems that caused it to fail; i.e., unintended statutory provisions, open-ended regulations, novice technical assistance, drifting implementation policies, administrative errors, complicated systems, inconsistent employee treatment,…

The author speaks of concerns facing those in allied health occupations: the new United States Department of Health and Human Services, focus on helping disabled people of all ages, segregation of handicapped children, and human service delivery mechanisms. (CT)

Provides a historical overview (1964-1980) of federal regulations and their effect on academic administration. (PD)

Discusses the federal regulation process, federal/grantee relations, and report requirements, particularly the Personnel Activity Report system. Believes there is room for negotiation with respect to the form and format of documentation that will satisfy the government's requirement for accountability and the school's desire for less paperwork.…

The Secretary of Education explains the proposals to amend regulations of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act. He discusses paperwork reduction, evaluation streamlining, medical services, disciplinary procedures, effect of placement on nonhandicapped, and changes in eligibility criteria. (CT)

Analyzes the communications policy review process since the 1960s, encompassing task forces, Congress, and the Federal Communications Commission. Concludes that the process "has been doing little more than seeking a means of negotiating the conflicting needs of the major industrial interests already in control of most aspects of American…

This debate focuses on the location of federal-level administration of vocational agriculture and agribusiness: Should the program be administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture or by the U.S. Department of Education? (CT)

From all available data it appears that men's athletics have not been harmed by progress for women in sports, and that even a reduction in the scale of men's athletics as a result of Title IX is not justification for denying equality to women athletes. (Journal availability: New England Law Review, 154 Stuart St., Boston, MA 02116, $4.00.) (MSE)

Discusses the impact of federal regulation (primarily that of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) in the area of personnel selection. (IRT)

The Environmental Protection Agency's regulations on use of asbestos in school buildings are not based on an "acceptable level of risk," require action by the consumers rather than by the producers of the hazardous substance and do not extend to other public facilities that theoretically place citizens in similar danger. (Author/PGD)