Daily Archives: 11/16/2017

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THE SENATE Nov 6th -10th **CONGRESS** 2017 THE HOUSE


November 9, 2017 Wrap Up for Thursday, November 9, 2017
November 8, 2017 Wrap Up for Wednesday, November 8, 2017
November 7, 2017 Wrap Up for Tuesday, November 7, 2017
November 6, 2017 Wrap Up for Monday, November 6, 2017

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House Activity 11/6/2017 

12:00:00 P.M. The House convened, starting a new legislative day.
12:00:06 P.M. The Speaker designated the Honorable James Comer to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.
12:00:31 P.M. MORNING-HOUR DEBATE – The House proceeded with Morning-Hour Debate. At the conclusion of Morning-Hour, the House will recess until 2:00 p.m. for the start of legislative business.
12:06:52 P.M. The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 2:00 P.M. today.
2:00:14 P.M. The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of November 6.
2:00:16 P.M. Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.
2:02:08 P.M. SPEAKER’S APPROVAL OF THE JOURNAL – The Chair announced that he had examined the Journal of the last day’s proceedings and had approved it. Mr. Wilson (SC) demanded that the question be put on agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal and by voice vote, the Chair announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Wilson (SC) demanded the yeas and nays and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the Speaker’s approval of the Journal until later in the legislative day.
2:02:50 P.M. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Ms. Norton to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
2:03:40 P.M. ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches.
2:15:15 P.M. The House received a communication from Kathy Register, District Director, Congressman Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. Pursuant to Rule VIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives, Ms. Register notified the House that she had been served with a subpoena for testimony, issued by the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia and that after consultation with the Office of General Counsel, she would make the determinations required by rule VIII.
2:15:30 P.M. The House received a communication from Tishyra Johnson Armstrong, Constituent Servies Representative, Congressman Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. Pursuant to Rule VIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives, Ms. Armstrong notified the House that she had been served with a subpoena for testimony, issued by the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia and that after consultation with the Office of General Counsel, she would make the determinations required by rule VIII.
2:16:07 P.M. The Speaker laid before the House a message from the President transmitting a notification stating that the national emergency with respect to the situation in Burundi declared in Executive Order 13712 on November 22, 2015, is to continue in effect beyond November 22, 2017. – referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs and ordered to be printed (H. Doc. 115-76).
2:17:41 P.M. The Speaker laid before the House a message from the President transmitting a notification stating that the national emergency with respect to Iran declared in Executive Order 12170 on November 14, 1979, is to continue in effect beyond November 14, 2017. – referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs and ordered to be printed (H. Doc. 115-77).
2:18:57 P.M. The Speaker laid before the House a message from the President transmitting a notification stating that the national emergency with respect to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction declared in Executive Order 12938 on November 14, 1994, is to continue in effect beyond November 14, 2017. – referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs and ordered to be printed (H. Doc. 115-78).
2:19:52 P.M. The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 4:30 P.M. today.
4:30:19 P.M. The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of November 6.
4:30:27 P.M. The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until a time to be announced.
4:30:34 P.M. H.R. 3562 Mr. Roe (TN) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 3562 — “To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to furnish assistance for adaptations of residences of veterans in rehabilitation programs under chapter 31 of such title, and for other purposes.”
4:30:54 P.M. H.R. 3562 Considered under suspension of the rules.
4:30:56 P.M. H.R. 3562 DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3562.
4:40:02 P.M. H.R. 3562 At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.
4:40:16 P.M. H.R. 1066 Mr. Roe (TN) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 1066 — “To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report regarding the organizational structure of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.”
4:40:27 P.M. H.R. 1066 Considered under suspension of the rules.
4:40:32 P.M. H.R. 1066 DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 1066.
4:48:43 P.M. H.R. 1066 At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.
4:49:03 P.M. H.R. 3122 Mr. Roe (TN) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 3122— “To protect individuals who are eligible for increased pension under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs on the basis of need of regular aid and attendance from dishonest, predatory, or otherwise unlawful practices, and for other purposes.”
4:49:22 P.M. H.R. 3122 Considered under suspension of the rules.
4:49:24 P.M. H.R. 3122 DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3122.
5:00:12 P.M. H.R. 3122 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
5:00:15 P.M. H.R. 3122 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
5:00:18 P.M. H.R. 3122 The title of the measure was amended. Agreed to without objection.
5:00:21 P.M. H.R. 3656 Mr. Roe (TN) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 3656— “To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for a consistent eligibility date for provision of Department of Veterans Affairs memorial headstones and markers for eligible spouses and dependent children of veterans whose remains are unavailable.”
5:00:45 P.M. H.R. 3656 Considered under suspension of the rules.
5:00:52 P.M. H.R. 3656 DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3656.
5:08:05 P.M. H.R. 3656 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
5:08:07 P.M. H.R. 3656 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
5:08:09 P.M. H.R. 3657 Mr. Roe (TN) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 3657— “To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide headstones and markers for the graves of spouses and children of veterans who are buried in tribal cemeteries.”
5:08:24 P.M. H.R. 3657 Considered under suspension of the rules.
5:08:26 P.M. H.R. 3657 DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3657.
5:15:40 P.M. H.R. 3657 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
5:15:42 P.M. H.R. 3657 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
5:15:45 P.M. H.R. 3657 The title of the measure was amended. Agreed to without objection.
5:15:59 P.M. The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 6:30 P.M. today.
6:30:21 P.M. The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of November 6.
6:30:29 P.M. UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was on motions to suspend the rules which had been debated earlier and on agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal, on which further proceedings had been postponed.
6:30:38 P.M. H.R. 3562 Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 3562 — “To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to furnish assistance for adaptations of residences of veterans in rehabilitation programs under chapter 31 of such title, and for other purposes.”
6:54:52 P.M. H.R. 3562 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 400 – 0 (Roll no. 607).
6:54:53 P.M. H.R. 3562 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
6:55:53 P.M. MOMENT OF SILENCE – The House observed a moment of silence in memory of the victims of the attack in Sutherland Springs, TX.
6:56:32 P.M. H.R. 1066 Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 1066 — “To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to submit to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report regarding the organizational structure of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes.”
7:04:21 P.M. H.R. 1066 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 399 – 0 (Roll no. 608).
7:04:22 P.M. H.R. 1066 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
7:12:34 P.M. On approving the Journal Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 222 – 169, 3 Present (Roll no. 609).
7:14:37 P.M. Mr. Byrne filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 607.
7:16:05 P.M. ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.
7:30:11 P.M. SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.
8:29:10 P.M. Ms. Plaskett moved that the House do now adjourn.
8:29:12 P.M. On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.
8:29:14 P.M. The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on November 7, 2017.

House Activity 11/7/2017 

10:00:10 A.M. The House convened, starting a new legislative day.
10:00:22 A.M. The Speaker designated the Honorable Randy K. Weber Sr. to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.
10:00:43 A.M. MORNING-HOUR DEBATE – The House proceeded with Morning-Hour Debate. At the conclusion of Morning-Hour, the House will recess until 12:00 p.m. for the start of legislative business.
10:51:31 A.M. The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 P.M. today.
12:00:20 P.M. The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of November 7.
12:00:39 P.M. Today’s prayer was offered by Chaplain Michael J. Halyard, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX.
12:02:00 P.M. SPEAKER’S APPROVAL OF THE JOURNAL – The Chair announced that he had examined the Journal of the last day’s proceedings and had approved it. Mr. Wilson (SC) demanded that the question be put on agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal and by voice vote, the Chair announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Wilson (SC) demanded the yeas and nays and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the Speaker’s approval of the Journal until later in the legislative day.
12:02:34 P.M. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Pittenger to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
12:02:49 P.M. ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches, which by direction of the Chair would be limited to 15 per side of the aisle.
12:02:50 P.M. The House received a message from the Clerk. Pursuant to the permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II of the Rules of the U.S. House of Representatives, the Clerk notified the House that she had received the following message from the Secretary of the Senate on November 7, 2017 at 9:47 a.m.: That the Senate passed H.R. 1370 amended and H.R. 3031.
12:25:19 P.M. H. Res. 607 Considered as privileged matter. H. Res. 607 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 3043) to modernize hydropower policy, and for other purposes, and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 3441) to clarify the treatment of two or more employers as joint employers under the National Labor Relations Act and the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938.”
12:28:28 P.M. H. Res. 607 DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 607.
1:49:57 P.M. H. Res. 607 On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 233 – 182 (Roll no. 610).
1:58:10 P.M. H. Res. 607 On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by recorded vote: 233 – 182 (Roll no. 611).
1:58:12 P.M. H. Res. 607 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
1:58:14 P.M. UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was on the Speaker’s approval of the Journal on which the yeas and nays were demanded.
2:04:13 P.M. On approving the Journal Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 225 – 184, 3 Present (Roll no. 612).
2:05:48 P.M. H.R. 3897 Mr. Bacon asked unanimous consent to discharge from committee and consider.
2:06:17 P.M. H.R. 3897 Considered by unanimous consent. H.R. 3897 — “To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the issuance of the Gold Star Installation Access Card to the surviving spouse, dependent children, and other next of kin of a member of the Armed Forces who dies while serving on certain active or reserve duty, to ensure that a remarried surviving spouse with dependent children of the deceased member remains eligible for installation benefits to which the surviving spouse was previously eligible, and for other purposes.”
2:06:20 P.M. H.R. 3897 On passage Passed without objection.
2:06:23 P.M. H.R. 3897 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
2:07:24 P.M. The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until a time to be announced.
2:07:38 P.M. H.R. 3911 Mr. Huizenga moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 3911 — “To amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 with respect to risk-based examinations of Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organizations.”
2:07:58 P.M. H.R. 3911 Considered under suspension of the rules.
2:08:00 P.M. H.R. 3911 DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3911.
2:23:37 P.M. H.R. 3911 At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.
2:23:46 P.M. H.R. 2148 Mr. Huizenga moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 2148— “To amend the Federal Deposit Insurance Act to clarify capital requirements for certain acquisition, development, or construction loans.”
2:23:59 P.M. H.R. 2148 Considered under suspension of the rules.
2:24:00 P.M. H.R. 2148 DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2148.
2:44:33 P.M. H.R. 2148 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
2:44:34 P.M. H.R. 2148 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
2:45:16 P.M. H.R. 918 Mr. Bilirakis moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 918 — “To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to furnish mental health care to certain former members of the Armed Forces who are not otherwise eligible to receive such care, and for other purposes.”
2:45:28 P.M. H.R. 918 Considered under suspension of the rules.
2:45:29 P.M. H.R. 918 DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 918.
3:04:06 P.M. H.R. 918 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
3:04:08 P.M. H.R. 918 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
3:04:16 P.M. H.R. 1133 Mr. Bilirakis moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 1133— “To amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide for an operation on a live donor for purposes of conducting a transplant procedure for a veteran, and for other purposes.”
3:04:24 P.M. H.R. 1133 Considered under suspension of the rules.
3:04:26 P.M. H.R. 1133 DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 1133.
3:12:20 P.M. H.R. 1133 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
3:12:22 P.M. H.R. 1133 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
3:12:23 P.M. H.R. 1133 The title of the measure was amended. Agreed to without objection.
3:12:37 P.M. H.R. 1900 Mr. Bilirakis moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 1900— “To designate the Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio, as the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, and for other purposes.”
3:12:49 P.M. H.R. 1900 Considered under suspension of the rules.
3:12:51 P.M. H.R. 1900 DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 1900.
3:30:04 P.M. H.R. 1900 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
3:30:08 P.M. H.R. 1900 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
3:30:16 P.M. H.R. 2123 Mr. Bilirakis moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 2123 — “To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the ability of health care professionals to treat veterans through the use of telemedicine, and for other purposes.”
3:30:25 P.M. H.R. 2123 Considered under suspension of the rules.
3:30:26 P.M. H.R. 2123 DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2123.
3:42:32 P.M. H.R. 2123 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.
3:42:34 P.M. H.R. 2123 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
3:42:41 P.M. H.R. 2601 Mr. Bilirakis moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 2601— “To amend the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 to improve the access of veterans to organ transplants, and for other purposes.”
3:42:50 P.M. H.R. 2601 Considered under suspension of the rules.
3:42:51 P.M. H.R. 2601 DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2601.
3:51:00 P.M. H.R. 2601 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
3:51:03 P.M. H.R. 2601 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
3:51:11 P.M. Mr. Sessions filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 609.
3:51:31 P.M. H.R. 3634 Mr. Bilirakis moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 3634 — “To amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure that individuals may access documentation verifying the monthly housing stipend paid to the individual under the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs.”
3:51:44 P.M. H.R. 3634 Considered under suspension of the rules.
3:51:45 P.M. H.R. 3634 DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3634.
3:59:10 P.M. H.R. 3634 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.
3:59:11 P.M. H.R. 3634 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
3:59:24 P.M. H.R. 3705 Mr. Bilirakis moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 3705— “To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to require the use of certified mail and plain language in certain debt collection activities.”
3:59:36 P.M. H.R. 3705 Considered under suspension of the rules.
3:59:38 P.M. H.R. 3705 DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3705.
4:08:26 P.M. H.R. 3705 At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.
4:08:52 P.M. H.R. 3949 Mr. Bilirakis moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 3949— “To amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for the designation of State approving agencies for multi-State apprenticeship programs for purposes of the educational assistance programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs.”
4:09:03 P.M. H.R. 3949 Considered under suspension of the rules.
4:09:05 P.M. H.R. 3949 DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3949.
4:18:38 P.M. H.R. 3949 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
4:18:40 P.M. H.R. 3949 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
4:19:01 P.M. H.R. 4173 Mr. Bilirakis moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 4173— “To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a study on the Veterans Crisis Line.”
4:19:03 P.M. H.R. 4173 Considered under suspension of the rules.
4:19:04 P.M. H.R. 4173 DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 4173.
4:35:36 P.M. H.R. 4173 At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.
4:36:15 P.M. H.R. 3441 Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 607. H.R. 3441 — “To clarify the treatment of two or more employers as joint employers under the National Labor Relations Act and the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938.”
4:36:20 P.M. H.R. 3441 Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 3043 and H.R. 3441. Measure will be considered read. The resolution provides for one hour of debate on H.R. 3043. The resolution makes in order only those further amendments printed in the report and one motion to recommit with or without instructions. Also, the resolution provides for one hour of debate on H.R. 3441 with one motion to recommit with or without instructions.
4:37:26 P.M. H.R. 3441 DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H.R. 3441.
5:45:23 P.M. H.R. 3441 The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.
5:45:58 P.M. H.R. 3441 Ms. Bonamici moved to recommit with instructions to the Committee on Education and the Workforce.
5:46:16 P.M. H.R. 3441 DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Bonamici motion to recommit with instructions. The instructions contained in the motion seek to require the bill to be reported back to the House with an amendment to section 2, Clarification of Joint Employment, to change the applicability when a franchisee takes an action at the direction of a franchisor, and such action by the franchisee violates this Act, in which case the franchisor shall be considered a joint employer for purposes of such violation.
5:50:52 P.M. H.R. 3441 The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.
6:15:47 P.M. H.R. 3441 On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 186 – 235 (Roll no. 613).
6:24:00 P.M. H.R. 3441 On passage Passed by recorded vote: 242 – 181 (Roll no. 614).
6:24:02 P.M. H.R. 3441 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
6:24:18 P.M. H.R. 3911 Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 3911 — “To amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 with respect to risk-based examinations of Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organizations.”
6:30:34 P.M. H.R. 3911 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 389 – 32 (Roll no. 615).
6:30:35 P.M. H.R. 3911 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
6:31:57 P.M. ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.
6:51:17 P.M. SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.
8:38:37 P.M. Mr. Garamendi moved that the House do now adjourn.
8:38:59 P.M. On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.
The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on November 8, 2017.

 

House Activity 11/8/2017 

10:00:01 A.M. The House convened, starting a new legislative day.
10:00:12 A.M. The Speaker designated the Honorable Don Bacon to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.
10:00:39 A.M. MORNING-HOUR DEBATE – The House proceeded with Morning-Hour Debate. At the conclusion of Morning-Hour, the House will recess until 12:00 p.m. for the start of legislative business.
10:57:02 A.M. The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 P.M. today.
12:00:10 P.M. The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of November 8.
12:00:30 P.M. Today’s prayer was offered by Pastor Jeff Williams, Faith Community Church, Janesville, WI
12:01:27 P.M. The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.
12:01:29 P.M. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Sires to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
12:03:21 P.M. ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches which by direction of the Chair, would be limited to 15 per side of the aisle.
12:31:32 P.M. The House received a message from the Clerk. Pursuant to the permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II of the Rules of the U.S. House of Representatives, the Clerk notified the House that she had received the following message from the Secretary of the Senate on November 8, 2017 at 9:37 a.m.: That the Senate passed S. 1088 and S. 1015.
12:32:58 P.M. H. Res. 609 Considered as privileged matter. H. Res. 609 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 2201) to amend the Securities Act of 1933 to exempt certain micro-offerings from the registration requirements of such Act, and for other purposes.”
12:33:06 P.M. H. Res. 609 DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 609.
1:26:23 P.M. UNFINISHED BUINSESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on agreeing to H. Res. 609 and on a motion to suspend the rules which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.
1:27:21 P.M. H. Res. 609 On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 224 – 190 (Roll no. 616).
1:35:23 P.M. H. Res. 609 On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 233 – 190 (Roll no. 617).
1:35:24 P.M. H. Res. 609 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
1:35:27 P.M. H.R. 4173 Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 4173 — “To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to conduct a study on the Veterans Crisis Line.”
1:41:27 P.M. H.R. 4173 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 420 – 0 (Roll no. 618).
1:41:28 P.M. H.R. 4173 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
1:43:08 P.M. H.R. 3043 Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 607. H.R. 3043 — “To modernize hydropower policy, and for other purposes.”
1:43:13 P.M. H.R. 3043 Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 3043 and H.R. 3441. Measure will be considered read. The resolution provides for one hour of debate on H.R. 3043. The resolution makes in order only those further amendments printed in the report and one motion to recommit with or without instructions. Also, the resolution provides for one hour of debate on H.R. 3441 with one motion to recommit with or without instructions.
1:43:26 P.M. H.R. 3043 House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 607 and Rule XVIII.
1:43:28 P.M. H.R. 3043 The Speaker designated the Honorable Randy Hultgren to act as Chairman of the Committee.
1:43:57 P.M. H.R. 3043 GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 3043.
2:53:14 P.M. H.R. 3043 An amendment, offered by Mr. Grothman, numbered 1 printed in House Report 115-391 to require the U.S. Department of Interior consider the threat of invasive species when it makes decisions on hydropower licensing.
2:53:15 P.M. H.R. 3043 DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 607, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Grothman amendment No. 1.
2:58:28 P.M. H.R. 3043 On agreeing to the Grothman amendment; Agreed to by voice vote.
2:58:50 P.M. H.R. 3043 An amendment, offered by Mr. Babin, numbered 2 printed in House Report 115-391 to allow FERC to examine the licenses of any project located in an area that was declared by the President to be a disaster area in 2017.
2:58:52 P.M. H.R. 3043 DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 607, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Babin amendment No. 2.
3:05:05 P.M. H.R. 3043 On agreeing to the Babin amendment; Agreed to by voice vote.
3:05:31 P.M. H.R. 3043 An amendment, offered by Mr. Jenkins (WV), numbered 3 printed in House Report 115-391 to ensure that when hydro projects have an existing Memorandum of Understanding for non-federal hydropower with FERC that all relevant federal agencies are authorized to fully study and review the potential expansion of non-federal hydropower, including a review of seasonal pool levels and slowing flood releases.
3:05:32 P.M. H.R. 3043 DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 607, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Jenkins (WV) amendment No. 3.
3:09:25 P.M. H.R. 3043 On agreeing to the Jenkins (WV) amendment; Agreed to by voice vote.
3:10:04 P.M. H.R. 3043 An amendment, in the nature of a substitute offered by Mr. Rush, numbered 4 printed in House Report 115-391 to add a new section to the Federal Power Act (FPA) to improve the hydropower licensing process. It directs the Commission and the Federal resource agencies to convene a negotiated rulemaking within 90 days of enactment with state and local government representatives, Indian tribes, and stakeholders to develop a process that will coordinate all necessary Federal authorizations and enable the Commission to make a final decision on a license not later than 3 years of receiving a completed license application.
3:10:11 P.M. H.R. 3043 DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 607, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Rush amendment No. 4.
3:19:07 P.M. H.R. 3043 POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Rush amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Rush demanded a recorded vote, and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.
3:19:33 P.M. H.R. 3043 Mr. Upton moved that the Committee rise.
3:19:44 P.M. H.R. 3043 On motion that the Committee rise Agreed to by voice vote.
3:19:52 P.M. H.R. 3043 Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union rises leaving H.R. 3043 as unfinished business.
3:20:27 P.M. The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.
4:30:52 P.M. The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of November 8.
4:31:00 P.M. Mr. Hill asked unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 9:00 a.m. on November 9. Agreed to without objection.
4:31:04 P.M. H.R. 3043 Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 3043 — “To modernize hydropower policy, and for other purposes.”
4:31:20 P.M. H.R. 3043 The House resolved into Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for further consideration.
4:31:34 P.M. H.R. 3043 UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on adoption of amendments which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.
4:55:54 P.M. H.R. 3043 On agreeing to the Rush amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 185 – 234 (Roll no. 619).
4:56:06 P.M. H.R. 3043 The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 3043.
4:56:23 P.M. H.R. 3043 The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.
4:57:07 P.M. H.R. 3043 The House adopted the amendment in the nature of a substitute as agreed to by the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union.
5:03:46 P.M. H.R. 3043 On passage Passed by recorded vote: 257 – 166 (Roll no. 620).
5:03:48 P.M. H.R. 3043 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
5:03:52 P.M. H.R. 3705 Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 3705 — “To direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to require the use of certified mail and plain language in certain debt collection activities.”
5:10:50 P.M. H.R. 3705 On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 422 – 0 (Roll no. 621).
5:10:51 P.M. H.R. 3705 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
5:11:38 P.M. ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.
5:44:09 P.M. SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.
7:57:08 P.M. Mr. McClintock moved that the House do now adjourn.
7:57:08 P.M. On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.
7:57:09 P.M. The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on November 9, 2017.

House Activity 11/9/2017 

9:00:21 A.M. The House convened, starting a new legislative day.
9:00:25 A.M. Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.
9:01:41 A.M. The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.
9:01:45 A.M. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Westerman to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
9:01:52 A.M. ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches, which by direction of the Chair would be limited to 5 per side of the aisle.
9:14:26 A.M. H.R. 2201 Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 609. H.R. 2201 — “To amend the Securities Act of 1933 to exempt certain micro-offerings from the registration requirements of such Act, and for other purposes.”
9:14:31 A.M. H.R. 2201 Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 2201 with 1 hour of general debate. Previous question shall be considered as ordered without intervening motions except motion to recommit with or without instructions.
9:15:02 A.M. H.R. 2201 DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H.R. 2201.
9:43:29 A.M. The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate passed H.R. 194 and H.R. 3243.
9:44:00 A.M. H.R. 2201 DEBATE – The House resumed debate on H.R. 2201.
10:22:31 A.M. H.R. 2201 An amendment, offered by Mr. Emmer, numbered 1 printed in House Report 115-401 to amend the bill to not allow the exemption to be available for those who have been disqualified under the “bad actor” disqualification standard of section 230.506(d) of title 17, Code of Federal Regulations, providing an additional layer of investor protection in the bill.
10:22:34 A.M. H.R. 2201 DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 609, the House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Emmer amendment.
10:29:04 A.M. H.R. 2201 The previous question was ordered on the amendment and the bill pursuant to the rule.
10:29:15 A.M. H.R. 2201 On agreeing to the Emmer amendment; Agreed to by voice vote.
10:30:08 A.M. H.R. 2201 POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on H.R. 2201, the Chair put the question on passage and by voice vote, announced the ayes had prevailed. Ms. Maxine Waters (CA) demanded the yeas and nays and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of passage until a time to be announced.
10:30:36 A.M. The Speaker announced that the House do now recess for a period of less than 15 minutes.
10:44:49 A.M. The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of November 9.
10:44:53 A.M. H.R. 2201 Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 2201 — “To amend the Securities Act of 1933 to exempt certain micro-offerings from the registration requirements of such Act, and for other purposes.”
11:23:12 A.M. H.R. 2201 On passage Passed by the Yeas and Nays: 232 – 188 (Roll no. 622).
11:23:14 A.M. H.R. 2201 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
11:23:27 A.M. H.R. 2810 Conference report H. Rept. 115-404 filed.
11:24:01 A.M. COLLOQUY ON HOUSE SCHEDULE – The Chair recognized Mr. Hoyer for the purpose of engaging in a colloquy with Mr. McCarthy on the expectations regarding the legislative schedule for the House for the upcoming week.
11:58:21 A.M. ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.
12:19:35 P.M. SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.
2:00:00 P.M. Mr. Sherman moved that the House do now adjourn.
2:00:02 P.M. On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.
2:00:04 P.M. The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on November 10, 2017.

House Activity 11/10/2017 

9:00:14 A.M.The House convened, starting a new legislative day.9:00:19 A.M.The Speaker designated the Honorable Paul Mitchell to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.9:00:42 A.M.Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.9:02:07 A.M.The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.9:02:09 A.M.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair led the House in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.9:02:37 A.M.The Chair announced that without objection, when the House adjourns on Friday, November 10, 2017, it shall adjourn to meet on Monday, November 13, 2017.9:02:56 A.M.The Speaker announced that the House do now adjourn pursuant to a previous special order. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. on November 13, 2017.

~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo and 17 other major global banks face a crucial choice.


Tell big banks: On December 15, say no to the Keystone XL pipeline!

This is a defining moment for the climate. On December 15, JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo and 17 other major global banks face a crucial choice.People Protest KXL at Chase

Will they continue to finance the Keystone XL pipeline?
Will they continue to fund toxic tar sands oil?
Will they continue to fund Indigenous rights abuses?
Will they continue to profit off climate chaos?
. . . or will they Do the Right Thing?

By financing TransCanada, the company behind the pipeline, major banks are funding the Keystone XL tar sands oil pipeline. But on December 15, two credit facilities totaling $1.5 billion will expire. These credit facilities will provide the funds for TransCanada to build the KXL pipeline.

That means it’s up to these 19 big banks, with JPMorgan Chase in the lead, to decide whether or not to renew.

The time is now to add your voice!
Let’s send a message, loud and clear: 
NO Business as Usual. 
NO Climate Chaos.
NO Violation of Indigenous Rights.
NO KXL.

Tell JPMorgan Chase and their 18 peer banks to #DefundKXL by saying NO to TransCanada.

To the CEOs of JPMorgan Chase and 18 other major global banks that fund TransCanada’s $1.5 billion revolving credit facilities, which are set to mature on December 15th, 2017:

Your bank supports TransCanada as a lender to two revolving credit facilities for TransCanada’s general corporate purposes — which include, the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline. We demand your bank exit these revolving credit facilities and all financing relationships with TransCanada. Until you end this business relationship, your institution contributes to the Indigenous rights violations and climate impacts of this project, and the extraction of the tar sands at large.

We call on you to refrain from financing Keystone XL and TransCanada going forward. Exit TransCanada’s revolving credit facilities ahead of December 15th, and align your institution with Indigenous human rights and a stable climate.

~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

Massive Coalition Calls Out PepsiCo ~


Brown_Protests.jpg

It’s hard to believe that four years have passed since we launched our campaign calling on the Snack Food 20 to cut Conflict Palm Oil from their corporate supply chains.

For four years, you have spoken up for Indonesia’s forests, been steadfast in solidarity with Indigenous people and palm oil workers, taken action for the global climate, and supported efforts to protect endangered animals and the priceless Leuser Ecosystem by demanding an end to Conflict Palm Oil. Because of this, almost every single one of these huge snack food corporations have committed to make big changes in their global operations.

Thank you.

But still, PepsiCo––the largest globally traded snack food company––remains connected to Conflict Palm Oil throughout its supply chain. This week, we’re releasing an open letter to PepsiCo’s CEO Indra Nooyi, signed by 46 groups, including Rainforest Action Network, International Labor Rights Forum, OPPUK, Greenpeace USA, Friends of the Earth US, SumOfUs and many many more. Combined, these groups represent over 25.8 million members worldwide.

As representatives of a wide range of organizations working to protect our climate, to preserve the world’s forests, to secure safe and responsible working conditions, and to defend human rights, we’re calling on the Snack Food 20’s most notorious laggard, PepsiCo, to ensure that all of its globally sold products are produced without deforestation, the destruction of peatlands or the violation of human rights — including the rights of local communities and workers. We’re standing together to hold PepsiCo accountable for its Conflict Palm Oil problem.

As we work to transform PepsiCo and the world’s palm oil supply chains, thank you for continuing to support this campaign. Some campaigns are over in a matter of weeks or months, and some take persistence over many years. Thank you for being a part of this movement and speaking up for the world’s forests, climate, and the people and animals who depend on them. You can read a more in-depth look at where the campaign has been so far, and where it goes next, here.

When millions of us stand together, we know we can change the world. Thank you for being part of the fight.

For the forests,

Chelsea_LI_HS.jpgChelsea Matthews
Forest Campaigner
Rainforest Action Network