GREAT SOCIETY LEGISLATION, 1964-1966

Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA)

Jan 1, 1964

An anti-poverty program created by Lyndon Johnson's Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 as the domestic version of the Peace Corps.

Economic Opportunity Act

Aug 20, 1964

The centerpiece of the "War on Poverty," which in turn was a major thrust of the "Great Society" legislative agenda of the Lyndon Johnson administration

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

Mar 20, 1965

A Cabinet department in the Executive branch of the United States federal government.

Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965

Apr 11, 1965

The most expansive federal education bill ever passed as a part of President Lyndon B. Johnson's "War on Poverty."

Medicare

Jul 30, 1965

President Lyndon Johnson signed into law Medicare, which provides low-cost hospitalization and medical insurance for the nation's elderly

Medicaid

Jul 30, 1965

The United States health program for people and families with low incomes and resources.

The National Foundations of the Arts and Humanities

Sep 29, 1965

This act promotes progress and scholarship in the humanities and the arts in the United States.

Water Quality Act

Oct 2, 1965

Prevented water pollution by requiring states to establish and enforce water quality standards for interstate waterways.

Immigration Act of 1965

Oct 3, 1965

Also known as the Hart-Cellar Act, which not only allows more individuals from third world countries to enter the US, but also entails a separate quota for refugees.

Clean Water Restoration Act

Jan 1, 1966

Imposed a fine of $100 per day on any polluter who failed to submit reports required by the law.

The National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act

Sep 9, 1966

It empowers the federal government to set and administer new safety standards for motor vehicles and road traffic safety.