First, they administer programs authorized by the federal or state government.
Congress's most important source of leverage is the power to authorize programs and appropriate funds.
The bill authorizing military programs has been set aside.
In conjunction, the Act also authorizes programs for government research and surveillance of tobacco use.
The program, authorized by the legislature in 1978, does not purchase farms outright.
The bill also authorizes programs that would cost an additional $3.1 billion, which would not come from the trust fund.
Only in 1983 did Congress authorize such programs in 15 veterans' hospitals.
Federal officials have refused to authorize such programs, saying there is no way to guarantee the safety and efficacy of imported drugs.
In addition to $580 million for state education block grants, the measure authorizes new programs for next year that could cost up to $1.4 billion.
At least 22 states have or have authorized programs to help low-income elderly people buy prescription drugs.
