Category Archives: Black History

Pioneers, Activists, Black People, Black History

CONGRESS: Permanent Vacancy

01/13/2011 Nativegrl77

The U.S. Senate is broken, and its rampant dysfunction is slowly hollowing out the other two branches of government. Conservative senators have waged an unprecedented campaign of obstruction against President Obama’s judicial nominees, leaving nearly one in nine federal judgeships vacant . Senators routinely hold uncontroversial nominees hostage to extract petty concessions — Sen. Richard Shelby (R-AL) once placed a blanket hold on more than 70 White House nominees in order to extort tens of billions of dollars in pork for his home state. In perhaps the most absurd example of Senate obstructionism, Shelby also single-handedly blocked a nominee to the Federal Reserve Board whom he deemed too unqualified to set economic policy, only to have that nominee win the Nobel Prize in Economics a few months later. Because it is now so easy to stall a nominee, potentially keeping an entire federal agency leaderless for years, powerful industry groups have spawned an entire industry devoted to keeping the government from functioning — and no one has mastered this game better than the National Rifle Association.

ENSURING A PERMANENT VACANCY: In 2006, the NRA successfully lobbied Congress to require the Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms to be confirmed by the Senate. Since then, the ATF has never had a Senate-confirmed head. President Bush nominated U.S. Attorney Michael Sullivan to head the ATF, but even a Republican president’s choice proved unacceptable to pro-gun lobbyists. The NRA accused Sullivan of “overly zealous enforcement activities” because, while Sullivan served as Acting Director of ATF, the agency revoked several gun dealers licenses to sell firearms. Sens. David Vitter (R-LA), Larry Craig (R-ID) and Mike Crapo (R-ID) soon took up the NRA’s cause, placing a hold on Sullivan’s nomination until he agreed to comply with the NRA’s demands. President Obama did not nominate an ATF Director until Nov. 2010, in no small part because the administration “had a tough time even finding a candidate interested in the ATF job because of likely gun-lobby resistance.” When Obama finally did nominate Andrew Traver, a 23-year veteran of the ATF and the head of its Chicago office, the NRA officially announced its opposition the very same day. Many of the NRA’s objections to Traver call into question whether anyone actually interested in enforcing the nation’s gun laws could breach the NRA’s wall of obstruction. The gun lobby complains that Traver once was interviewed in a local news segment about a 14 year-old girl who was killed by an AK-47, and it objects to Traver’s belief that civilians should not be able to purchase guns that fire 5 inch long .50 caliber rounds that are capable of punching a fist-sized hole in 2.5 inches of bulletproof glass.

THE PRICE OF OBSTRUCTION: When entire agencies sit without confirmed leadership for years at a time it has very severe consequences for the government’s ability to provide the most basic services. The gun lobby may object to the ATF’s decision to control the most dangerous weapons or require gun dealers to follow the law, but when the NRA gums up this agency’s leadership it also hurts its ability to keep guns out of the hands of Mexican drug cartels or prevent arson and bombings. Agencies without a confirmed head also lack clout within an administration and thus have less ability to assert their need for additional budget appropriations. Accordingly, difficult budgeting decisions wind up being decided based on which agencies’ leaders are able to wield their influence with the Office of Management and Budget rather than on the nation’s actual needs. And leaderless agencies are understandably reluctant to pursue new regulations or other long-term initiatives for fear that they will not be embraced if a permanent leader is ever confirmed. Nor are the costs of Senate obstruction limited to the federal agencies. Because of the Senate’s inability to confirm judicial nominations, a federal court in Illinois currently has only one active judge doing the job of four, and the average civil litigant nationwide must wait nearly two years for a jury trial. And if the Senate isn’t fixed, the judiciary will soon become completely incapable of functioning. Nearly half of the 876 federal judgeships will be vacant by the end of the decade if the current confirmation rate does not speed up, according to the Department of Justice’s Office of Legal Policy.

HOLDS FOR SALE : The gun lobby may be the most effective special interest group at ensuring that the agency that oversees its members is completely unable to function, but it is far from alone in exploiting the broken Senate. Indeed, as ThinkProgress’ Lee Fang recently reported, corporate lobbyists have created an entire holds-for-sale industry which connects powerful interest groups with senators willing to place a hold on Senate business which could hurt the interest group’s bottom line. One lobbying firm, Endgame Strategies LLC, openly advertises to potential clients that it can help its clients find just the right “backbench Senate Republicans” to “exercise their prerogatives to delay or obstruct.” And this firm is hardly a lone wolf. The American League of Lobbyists recently pitched a seminar to DC lobbyists with a provocative question and answer: “Can you turn Congressional rules and procedures into a tactical advantage for achieving your policy goals? Absolutely!” In other words, while the United States slowly loses its ability to function due to its broken Senate, corporate lobbyists are wildly profiting off that very dysfunction.

Black History

the New 112th Congress goes to work …the House is in Session -the Senate is on break until Jan.25th -hmmm

01/06/2011 Nativegrl77 2 Comments

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF JANUARY 6, 2011
112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

2:47 P.M. –

SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House continued with further Special Order speeches.

OATH OF OFFICE – Representative-Elects Pete Sessions, Thirty Second District, State of Texas and Mike Fitzpatrick, Eighth District, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, presented themselves in the well of the House for the purpose of taking the Oath of Office which was administered by the Speaker of the House.

1:51 P.M. –

SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.

1:50 P.M. –

Mr. Poe of TX requested the following general leaves to address the House on January 12: Mr. Jones for 5 min.

Mr. Poe of TX requested the following general leaves to address the House on January 11: Mr. Jones for 5 min.

Mr. Poe of TX requested the following general leaves to address the House on January 7: himself for 5 min, Mr. McClintock for 5 min, Mr. Burton of IN for 5 min, and Mr. Jones for 5 min.

1:44 P.M. –

ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.

H. Res. 22:

reducing the amount authorized for salaries and expenses of Member, committee, and leadership offices in 2011 and 2012

1:38 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 410 – 13 (Roll no. 8).

12:57 P.M. –

The House resumed debate on H.Res. 22.

The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate agreed to S. Con. Res. 2.

H. Res. 22:

reducing the amount authorized for salaries and expenses of Member, committee, and leadership offices in 2011 and 2012

12:31 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with two hours of debate on H. Res. 22.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Lungren, Daniel E. moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

12:30 P.M. –

PERMANENT SELECT COMMITTEE ON INTELLIGENCE – Pursuant to clause 11 of rule X and clause 11 of rule I, and the order of the House of January 5, 2011, the Speaker appointed the following member of the House to the PERMANENT SELECT COMMITTEE ON INTELLIGENCE: Mr. Rogers of MI.

10:57 A.M. –

READING OF THE CONSTITUTION – Pursuant to section 5(a) of H. Res. 5, the Chair recognized the gentleman from Virginia, Mr. Goodlatte, for the reading of the Constitution.

10:54 A.M. –

Call of the House Quorum responded: 405 present (Roll no. 7).

10:49 A.M. –

ADJUSTMENT OF WHOLE HOUSE – Under Clause 5(d) of Rule XX, the Chair announced to the House that, in light of the administration of the Oath of Office to the Gentleman from Oregon, the whole number of the House is 435.

10:48 A.M. –

OATH OF OFFICE – Representative-Elect Peter DeFazio, Fourth District, State of Oregon, presented himself in the well of the House for the purpose of taking the Oath of Office which was administered by the Speaker of the House.

10:03 A.M. –

ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches, which by direction of the Chair would be limited to 10 per side of the aisle.

10:02 A.M. –

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Gowdy to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

10:01 A.M. –

The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.

10:00 A.M. –

Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Daniel Coughlin.

The Speaker designated the Honorable Michael K. Simpson to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

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The Senate Convenes: 12:00 noon January 5, 2011

Following the presentation of the certificates of election and the swearing in of elected members, there will be a required live quorum. All senators are asked to report to the floor at that time. The Senate will then be in a period of morning business with senators permitted to speak for up to 10 minutes each.

Unanimous Consent:
Adopted S.Res.1, a resolution notifying the President that a quorum of each House has assembled.

Adopted S.Res.2, a resolution notifying the House that a quorum of the Senate has assembled.

Adopted S.Res.3, a resolution fixing the daily meeting of the Senate.

Adopted S.Res.4, a resolution commemorating Senator Mikulski as the longest serving female senator.

Adopted S.Res.5, a resolution electing Gary B. Myrick as Secretary for the Majority.

Adopted S.Res.6, a resolution appointing Morgan J. Frankel as Senate Legal Cousel pursuant to Chair appointment.

Adopted S.Res.7, a resolution appointing Patricia Mack Bryan as Deputy Senate Legal Counsel pursuant to Chair appointment.

Adopted S.Con.Res.1, a resolution providing for the adjournment or recess of the House and Senate.

Adopted S.Con.Res.2, authorizing the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for an event marking the 50th anniversary of the inaugural address of President John F. Kennedy.

The Senate Convenes: 10:00am January 25, 2011

Following any Leader remarks, there will be a period of morning business with senators permitted to speak for up to 10 minutes each. Roll call votes are possible during Tuesday’s session. Senators will be notified when any votes scheduled.

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF JANUARY 5, 2011
112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

5:50 P.M. –

The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on January 6, 2011.

On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.

Ms. Foxx moved that the House do now adjourn.

S. Con. Res. 1:

providing for a conditional recess or adjournment of the Senate and an adjournment of the House of Representatives

5:49 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.

5:47 P.M. –

Considered as privileged matter.

5:46 P.M. –

That during the first session of the 112th Congress: (1) on legislative days of Monday or Tuesday when the House convenes pursuant to House Resolution 10, the House shall convene two hours earlier than the time otherwise established by the resolution for the purpose of conducting morning-hour debate; (2) on legislative days of Wednesday or Thursday beginning on February 1, 2011, when the House convenes pursuant to House Resolution 10, the House shall convene two hours earlier than the time otherwise established by the resolution for the purpose of conducting morning-hour debate; (3) when the House convenes pursuant to an order other than House Resolution 10, the House shall convene for the purpose of conducting morning-hour debate only as prescribed by such order; (4) the time for morning-hour debate shall be allocated equally between the parties and may not con tinue beyond 10 minutes before the hour appointed for the resumption of the session of the House; and (5) the form of proceeding for morning-hour debate shall be as follows: (a) the prayer by the Chaplain, the approval of the Journal and the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag shall be postponed until resumption of the session

5:45 P.M. –

The House received a communication from The Honorable John A. Boehner, Speaker. Pursuant to House Concurrent Resolution 1, and also for purposes of such concurrent resolutions of the current Congress as may contemplate my designation of Members to act in similar circumstances, the Speaker notified the Clerk of his designation of Representative Eric Cantor of Virginia to act jointly with the Majority Leader of the Senate or his designee, in the event of his death or inability, to notify the Members of the House and the Senate, respectively, or any reassembly under any such concurrent resolution. In the event of the death or inability of that designee, alternate Members of the House are listed in the letter bearing this date for the same purpo

The Speaker laid before the House a message from the President transmitting the statement showing the apportionment population for each State as of April 1, 2010, and the number or Representatives to which each State would be entitled – referred to the Committees on Judiciary and Oversight and Government Reform and ordered to be printed (H. Doc. 112-5).

5:44 P.M. –

COMMITTEE TO REPORT – Mr. Cantor notified the House that the Committee appointed on the part of the House to join a like Committee on the part of the Senate to notify the President of the United States that a quorum of each House had been assembled and is ready to receive any communications.

Mr. Cantor asked unanimous consent that during the One Hundred Twelfth Congress, all Members be permitted to extend their remarks and to include extraneous material within the permitted limit in that section of the record entitled “Extension of Remarks”. Agreed to without objection.

5:43 P.M. –

Mr. Cantor asked unanimous consent that during the One Hundred Twelfth Congress, the Speaker, Majority Leader, and Minority Leader be authorized to accept resignations and to make appointments authorized by law or by the House. Agreed to without objection.

HOUSE OFFICE BUILDING COMMISSION – Pursuant to 2 U.S.C. 2001, and the order of the House of today, the Chair announced the Speaker’s appointment of the following members of the House to the House Office Building Commission: Mr. Cantor and Ms. Pelosi .

5:42 P.M. –

ADJUSTMENT OF WHOLE NUMBER OF HOUSE – Under clause 5(d) of Rule XX, the Chair announced to the House that the whole number of the House is 434.

H. Con. Res. 1:

regarding consent to assemble outside the seat of government

5:38 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.

Mr. Dreier asked unanimous consent to consider as introduced.

Considered by unanimous consent.

5:37 P.M. –

The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate agreed to S. Con. Res. 1.

H. Res. 10:

fixing the daily hour of meeting of the First Session of the One Hundred Twelfth Congress

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

5:36 P.M. –

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.

Considered as privileged matter.

H. Res. 8:

providing for the designation of certain minority employees

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.

5:35 P.M. –

Mr. Capuano asked unanimous consent to consider as introduced.

Considered by unanimous consent.

H. Res. 7:

electing Members to certain standing committees of the House of Representatives

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.

Considered as privileged matter.

H. Res. 6:

electing Members to certain standing committees of the House of Representatives

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

5:34 P.M. –

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.

Considered as privileged matter.

H. Res. 5:

adopting rules for the One Hundred Twelfth Congress

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 240 – 191 (Roll no. 6).

5:17 P.M. –

On motion to commit the resolution to a select committee Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 191 – 240 (Roll no. 5).

5:01 P.M. –

The previous question on the motion to commit the resolution to a select committee was ordered without objection.

4:59 P.M. –

Mr. Crowley moved to commit the resolution to a select committee.

4:57 P.M. –

On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 238 – 188 (Roll no. 4).

3:12 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 5.

3:11 P.M. –

Motion to refer tabled.

On motion to table the motion to refer Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 225 – 188 (Roll no. 3).

2:37 P.M. –

Mr. Cantor moved to table the motion to refer

2:36 P.M. –

Ms. Norton moved to refer the resolution to a select committee of five members, to be appointed by the Speaker, not more than three of whom shall be from the same political party, with instructions to report back the same until it has conducted a full and complete study of, and made a determination on, the constitutionality of the provision that would be eliminated from the Rules that granted voting rights in the Committee of the Whole to the Delegates.

2:33 P.M. –

Considered as privileged matter.

H. Res. 4:

authorizing the Clerk to inform the President of the election of the Speaker and the Clerk

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

Considered as privileged matter.

H. Res. 3:

authorizing the Speaker to appoint a committee to notify the President of the assembly of the Congress

2:32 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

2:31 P.M. –

Considered as privileged matter.

H. Res. 2:

to inform the Senate that a quorum of the House has assembled and of the election of the Speaker and the Clerk

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

Considered as privileged matter.

H. Res. 1:

electing officers of the House of Representatives

2:30 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

2:29 P.M. –

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

On agreeing to the remainder of the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

On agreeing to the Larson (CT) amendment Failed by voice vote.

Amendment offered by Mr. Larson (CT).

2:28 P.M. –

On agreeing to the first portion of the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

Considered as privileged matter.

2:27 P.M. –

ADMINISTERING OATH OF OFFICE – Representative-Elect John Sullivan, First District, Oklahoma, presented himself in the well of the House and the Speaker proceeded to administer the Oath of Office.

2:22 P.M. –

ANNOUNCEMENT OF LEADERSHIP POSTS – Mr. Larson of Connecticut notified the House that, at the direction of the Democratic Caucus, Ms. Pelosi of California had been elected as Minority Leader, Mr. Hoyer of Maryland had been elected as Minority Whip, and Mr. Clyburn had been elected as Assistant Democratic Leader.

ANNOUNCEMENT OF LEADERSHIP POSTS – Mr. Hensarling notified the House that, at the direction of the Republican Conference, Mr. Cantor of Virginia had been elected as Majority Leader and Mr. McCarthy of California had been elected as Majority Whip.

2:16 P.M. –

ADMINISTRATION OF THE OATH OF OFFICE – The Speaker administered the Oath of Office to the Members-elect of the 112th Congress.

2:15 P.M. –

ADMINISTRATION OF THE OATH OF OFFICE – The Dean of the House administered the Oath of Office to the Speaker-elect.

2:00 P.M. –

ADDRESS BY THE SPEAKER-ELECT – The Speaker-elect addressed the House prior to taking the Oath of Office which will be administered by the Dean of the House, Representative-elect John Dingell of Michigan.

1:50 P.M. –

The Speaker-elect was escorted into the Chamber by the Escort Committee and introduced by Representative-elect Pelosi, Democratic Leader, before assuming the Chair.

1:39 P.M. –

COMMITTEE TO ESCORT THE SPEAKER-ELECT – The Clerk appointed a Committee of Members-elect to escort the Speaker-elect into the Chamber and to the Chair.

1:38 P.M. –

Roll call 2 – Election of the Speaker Boehner: 241 Pelosi: 173 Shuler: 11 Lewis (GA): 2 Costa: 1 Cardoza: 1 Cooper: 1 Kaptur: 1 Hoyer: 1 Present: 1 (Roll no. 2). Boehner elected Speaker.

12:40 P.M. –

APPOINTMENT OF TELLERS – The Clerk announced the appointment of the following Members-elect to act as Tellers during the Roll Call for Election of Speaker: Mr. Lungren; Mr. Brady of Pennsylvania; Ms. Kaptur; and Ms. Ros-Lehtinen.

12:39 P.M. –

NOMINATIONS FOR OFFICE OF SPEAKER – Pursuant to law and precedent, the Clerk announced that the next order of business was the election of the Speaker of the House of Representatives for the 112th Congress and that nominations would now be in order. Accordingly, the Honorable Jeb Hensarling of Texas placed the name of the Honorable John Boehner into nomination for the Office of Speaker and the Honorable John Larson of Connecticut placed the name of the Honorable Nancy Pelosi into nomination for the Office of Speaker. No other nominations were put forward.

12:35 P.M. –

ELECTION CREDENTIALS FOR DELEGATES – The Clerk notified the House that election credentials for all Delegates and Resident Commissioners had been received.

12:34 P.M. –

Call of the States Quorum responded: 434 present (Roll no. 1).

12:05 P.M. –

CERTIFICATION OF ELECTION – The Clerk announced that Certificates of Election covering 435 seats in the One Hundred Twelfth Congress had been received and the names of those persons whose credentials show that they were regularly elected as Representatives in accordance with the laws of their respective States of the United States would be called. Without objection, the Representatives-elect were directed to record their presence by electronic device in order to determine whether a quorum was present.

12:04 P.M. –

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Clerk led the House in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

12:01 P.M. –

Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Daniel Coughlin.

12:00 P.M. –

The House convened, starting a new legislative day, pursuant to the 20th amendment to the Constitution and fixed by Public Law 111-289, for the meeting of the One Hundred Twelfth Congress of the United States.

Black History

3days til Xmas … is the duck done or still lame …Congress still in SEssion-Final vote on START might happen,test vote on 9/11 Responders

12/21/2010 Nativegrl77

Senate Convenes: 9:00amET December 22, 2010

The Senate passes Defense Authorization bill but needs House approval

Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to executive session and resume consideration of the New START Treaty, post-cloture. Time during the adjournment or period of morning business will count post-cloture.We hope that we will be able to yield back some of the post-cloture debate time on the START Treaty. Tomorrow we will also work on an agreement to consider the 9/11 health legislation and a number of Executive nominations.

Senators will be notified when any votes are scheduled.

The following amendments are pending to the START Treaty:
– Corker #4904, as modified (Missile Defense)
– Kyl #4892, as modified (Facilities)

Votes:
298: Resolution of Advise and Consent to Ratification, as amended, for the New START Treaty;
Agreed To: 71-26.

299: Confirmation of Mary Helen Murguria, of Arizona, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the 9th Circuit;
Confirmed: 89-0

Unanimous Consent:
Passed H.R.6523, the DoD Authorization bill, with Levin-McCain amendment.Passed S.4053, the SBIR/STTR Reauthorization Act.

Passed H.R.6398, a bill to require the Federal deposit Insurance Corporation to fully insure Interest on Lawyers Trust Accounts.

Passed H.R.847, the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010, with Gillibrand-Schumer amendment

Passed S.4058, a bill to extend certain expiring provisions providing enhanced protections for servicemembers relating to mortgages and mortgage foreclosures.

Passed H.R.6517, with Brown substitute amendment (Brown substitute is a 6-week extension of Andean Trade Preferences Drug Eradication Act and Trade Adjustment Assistance).

Unanimous Consent:
Passed H.R.6523, the DoD Authorization bill, with Levin-McCain amendment.Passed S.4053, the SBIR/STTR Reauthorization Act.

Passed H.R.6398, a bill to require the Federal deposit Insurance Corporation to fully insure Interest on Lawyers Trust Accounts.

Passed H.R.847, the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010, with Gillibrand-Schumer amendment

Passed S.4058, a bill to extend certain expiring provisions providing enhanced protections for servicemembers relating to mortgages and mortgage foreclosures.

Passed H.R.6517, with Brown substitute amendment (Brown substitute is a 6-week extension of Andean Trade Preferences Drug Eradication Act and Trade Adjustment Assistance).

Adopted H.Con.Res.336: providing for the conditional adjournment of the House and Senate through January 5, 2011.

Adopted S.Con.Res.78, a concurrent resolution honoring the work and mission of the Delta Regional Authority on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Federal-State partnership created to uplift the 8-State Delta region.

Adopted S.Con.Res.71, a concurrent resolution recognizing the United States national interest in helping to prevent and mitigate acts of genocide and other mass atrocities against civilians, and supporting and encouraging efforts to develop a whole of government approach to prevent and mitigate such acts.

Adopted S.Res.705, a resolution providing for a technical correction to S.Res.700

Adopted S.Res.707, a resolution commending Lula Davis.

Adopted S.Res.706, a resolution extending the authority for the Senate National Security Working Group.

Adopted S.Res.432, a resolution supporting the goals and ideals of the Year of the Lung 2010.

Adopted H.Con.Res.275, a resolution expressing support for designation of the week beginning on the second Sunday of September as Arts in Education Week.

Star Printed Calendar #706, S.583, the Building a Stronger America Act.

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The next meeting in the House is scheduled for 11:00amET December 22, 2010

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF DECEMBER 22, 2010
111TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION

6:00 P.M. –

The House adjourned Sine Die pursuant to H. Con. Res. 336.

On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.

Mr. McDermott moved that the House do now adjourn.

H.R. 6517:

to extend trade adjustment assistance and certain trade preference programs, to amend the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States to modify temporarily certain rates of duty, and for other purposes

5:58 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion that the House agree to the Senate amendment Agreed to without objection.

Mr. McDermott asked unanimous consent that the House agree to the Senate amendment.

5:57 P.M. –

NATIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON INSTITUTIONAL QUALITY AND INTEGRITY – Pursuant to Section 106 of the Higher Education Opportunity Act (P.L. 110-315) and the order of the House of January 6, 2009, the Speaker appointed Dr. George T. French, Fairfield, Alabama, to the National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity for a term of six years. .

The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate agreed to H. Con. Res. 336.

5:52 P.M. –

ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded further with one minute speeches.

H. Res. 1784:

appointing a committee to inform the President

5:49 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

5:48 P.M. –

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

Considered as privileged matter.

S. 3903:

to authorize leases of up to 99 years for lands held in trust for Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo

5:47 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On passage Passed without objection.

5:46 P.M. –

Mr. Lujan asked unanimous consent to take from the Speaker’s table and consider.

Considered by unanimous consent.

S. 4058:

to extend certain expiring provisions providing enhanced protections for servicemembers relating to mortgages and mortgage foreclosure

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On passage Passed without objection.

Mr. Perriello asked unanimous consent to take from the Speaker’s table and consider.

Considered by unanimous consent.

S. 3481:

to amend the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to clarify Federal responsibility for stormwater pollution

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

5:45 P.M. –

On passage Passed without objection.

H. Res. 1783:

making a technical correction to a cross-reference in the final regulations issued by the Office of Compliance to implement the Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998 that apply to the House of Representatives and employees of the House of Representatives

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.

Mrs. Davis (CA) asked unanimous consent to discharge from committee and consider.

Considered by unanimous consent.

H.R. 5901:

to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to exempt certain stock of real estate investment trusts from the tax on foreign investment in United States real property interests, and for other purposes

5:44 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion that the House agree to the Senate amendments Agreed to without objection.

Mr. McDermott asked unanimous consent that the House agree to the Senate amendments.

H. Res. 1779:

honoring the 50th anniversary of the Freedom Rides

5:43 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.

H. Res. 1461:

supporting Olympic Day on June 23, 2010, and congratulating Team USA and World Fit participants

5:40 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.

Mr. Van Hollen asked unanimous consent to discharge from committee and consider.

Considered by unanimous consent.

S. 372:

to amend chapter 23 of title 5, United States Code, to clarify the disclosures of information protected from prohibited personnel practices, require a statement in nondisclosure policies, forms, and agreements that such policies, forms, and agreements conform with certain disclosure protections, provide certain authority for the Special Counsel, and for other purposes

5:39 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On passage Passed without objection.

On agreeing to the Van Hollen amendment Agreed to without objection.

Amendment offered by Mr. Van Hollen.

5:38 P.M. –

Considered by unanimous consent.

5:36 P.M. –

Mr. Van Hollen asked unanimous consent to take from the Speaker’s table and consider.

H.R. 847:

to amend the Public Health Service Act to extend and improve protections and services to individuals directly impacted by the terrorist attack in New York City on September 11, 2001, and for other purposes

5:35 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion that the House agree to the Senate amendment Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 206 – 60 (Roll no. 664).

4:21 P.M. –

The previous question was ordered pursuant to a previous special order.

4:10 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded further with debate on agreeing to the Senate amendment to H.R. 847.

The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate passed S. 4058.

H.R. 847:

3:55 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with 30 minutes of debate on agreeing to the Senate amendment to H.R. 847.

3:54 P.M. –

Pursuant to a previous special order the House moved to agree to the Senate amendment.

ORDER OF PROCEDURE – Mr. Arcuri asked unanimous consent that it be in order at any time to take from the Speaker’s table the bill H.R. 847, with the Senate amendment thereto, and to consider in the House, without intervention of any point of order except those arising under clause 10 or rule 21, a motion offered by the chair of the Committee on Energy and Commerce or his designee that the House concur in the Senate amendment; that the Senate amendment be considered as read; that the motion be debatable for 30 minutes equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on Energy and Commerce and; that the previous question be considered as ordered on the motion to final adoption with intervening motion. Agree to without objection.

3:53 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 December 22, 2010 at 11:30 p.m.: That the Senate passed S. 4053.

3:52 P.M. –

3:50 P.M. –

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of December 22.

11:25 A.M. –

The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.

11:13 A.M. –

ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded further with one minute speeches.

H.R. 6523:

to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2011 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion that the House agree to the Senate amendments Agreed to without objection.

11:10 A.M. –

Mr. Skelton asked unanimous consent that the House agree to the Senate amendments.

11:08 A.M. –

ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded further with one minute speeches.

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 House of Representatives, the Clerk notified the House that she had received a message from the Secretary of the Senate on December 22, 2010, at 9:41 a.m. stating that that body had passed H.R. 5470, H.R. 4445, S. 3903 and H.R. 6523 with amendments.

11:06 A.M. –

ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches.

11:05 A.M. –

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Skelton to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.

11:04 A.M. –

Today’s prayer was offered by Monsignor Stephen J. Rossetti, Catholic University of America, Washington, DC

The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

Black History

only 5 more days til Xmas …Congress is in Session this week

12/19/2010 Nativegrl77

Senate Convenes: 10:00amET December 20, 2010

Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to Executive session and resume consideration of the New START Treaty.The Senate will recess at 1:30pm and reconvene in closed session at 2:00pm in the Old Senate Chamber.

Following the closed session, the Senate will reconvene in open session in the Senate chamber.

Senators with amendments to the START Treaty are encouraged to come to the floor to offer and debate their amendments.

Roll call votes are expected to occur throughout the day.

The following amendments are pending to the START Treaty.:

– Corker amendment to the resolution #4904, as modified, (Missile Defense)

Votes:
285: Inhofe #4833 (inspections);
Not Agreed to: 33-64

286: Thune #4831 (delivery vehicles);
Not Agreed To: 33-64

287: LeMieux amendment #4847: (tactical stockpiles);
Not Agreed To: 35-62.

Unanimous Consent:
Passed HR81, Shark Conservation Act of 2009 (with Kerry-Snowe amendment, International Fisheries)

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The next meeting in the House is Tuesday at 10:00amET on December 21, 2010

Black History

what’s going on in Congress -debates/votes on Wednesday

12/15/2010 Nativegrl77

The Senate Convenes: 9:30amET December 15, 2010

Following any Leader remarks, there will be a period of morning business until 11:00am with senators permitted to speak for up to 10 minutes each. At 10:00am, Senator Bayh will deliver his farewell remarks and at 10:30am Senator Voinovich will deliver his farewell remarks.

At 11:00am, the Senate will resume consideration of the House message on H.R.4853, the vehicle for the tax compromise. At approximately 12:00 noon, there will be a series of up to 4 roll call votes in relation to the following items:

– Coburn motion to suspend Rule 22 for the purpose of proposing and considering amendment #4765 (to pay for the costs of extending unemployment insurance payments by reducing unnecessary and duplicative spending);

– DeMint motion to suspend Rule 22 for the purpose of proposing and considering amendment #4804 (to permanently extend the 2001 and 2003 tax relief provisions, and to permanently repeal the estate tax, and to provide permanent alternative minimum tax relief);

– Sanders motion to suspend Rule 22 for the purpose of proposing and considering amendment #4809 (to provide an extension of 2010 tax cuts only for the bottom 98 percent of taxpayers, to provide for responsible estate tax reform, to extend the making work pay credit in lieu of a payroll tax holiday, to provide relief to senior citizens, and to provide for improvements in infrastructure, energy, and water); and

– Reid motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R.4853, with Reid-McConnell amendment #4753 (tax compromise).

Following the votes, the Senate will resume morning business until 2:15pm with senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

At 2:15pm, there will be a roll call vote on the motion to proceed to Executive Session to consider the START Treaty.

Following that vote, Senator Lincoln will be recognized to give her farewell remarks to the Senate. Following her remarks and any of her colleagues, the Senate will resume Executive session at the same status prior to her remarks in legislative session. We expect the Republicans to object to dispensing with the reading of the treaty. If that is the case, we estimate it will take the clerks approximately 15 hours to read the treaty live.

Votes:
At approximately 12:00 noon, there will be a series of up to 4 roll call votes in relation to the following motions:

– Coburn motion to suspend Rule 22 for the purpose of proposing and considering amendment #4765: (to pay for the costs of extending unemployment insurance payments by reducing unnecessary and duplicative spending);

– DeMint motion to suspend Rule 22 for the purpose of proposing and considering amendment #4804: (to permanently extend the 2001 and 2003 tax relief provisions, and to permanently repeal the estate tax, and to provide permanent alternative minimum tax relief);

– Sanders motion to suspend Rule 22 for the purpose of proposing and considering amendment #4809: (to provide an extension of 2010 tax cuts only for the bottom 98 percent of taxpayers, to provide for responsible estate tax reform, to extend the making work pay credit in lieu of a payroll tax holiday, to provide relief to senior citizens, and to provide for improvements in infrastructure, energy, and water); and

– Reid motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R.4853, with Reid-McConnell amendment #4753: (tax compromise).

Votes:
273: Coburn motion to suspend Rule 22 for the purpose of proposing and considering amendment #4765: (to pay for the costs of extending unemployment insurance payments by reducing unnecessary and duplicative spending);
Not Agreed To: 47-52

274: DeMint motion to suspend Rule 22 for the purpose of proposing and considering amendment #4804: (to permanently extend the 2001 and 2003 tax relief provisions, and to permanently repeal the estate tax, and to provide permanent alternative minimum tax relief);
Not Agreed To: 37-63

275: Sanders motion to suspend Rule 22 for the purpose of proposing and considering amendment #4809: (to provide an extension of 2010 tax cuts only for the bottom 98 percent of taxpayers, to provide for responsible estate tax reform, to extend the making work pay credit in lieu of a payroll tax holiday, to provide relief to senior citizens, and to provide for improvements in infrastructure, energy, and water);
Not Agreed to: 43-57

276: Reid motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R.4853, with Reid-McConnell amendment #4753: (tax compromise)
Agreed To: 81-19.

277: Motion to proceed to Executive Session to consider the New Start Treaty:
Agreed To: 66-32

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF DECEMBER 15, 2010
111TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION

. 11:59 P.M. –

The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on December 16, 2010.

On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.

Mr. King (IA) moved that the House do now adjourn.

H. Res. 1377:

honoring the accomplishments of Norman Yoshio Mineta, and for other purposes

9:40 P.M. –

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.

9:12 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1377.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Faleomavaega moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H.R. 5493:

to provide for the furnishing of statues by the District of Columbia for display in Statuary Hall in the United States Capitol

9:10 P.M. –

The title of the measure was amended. Agreed to without objection.

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.

8:58 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5493.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Faleomavaega moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

S. Con. Res. 77:

to provide for the approval of final regulations issued by the Office of Compliance to implement the Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998 that apply to certain legislative branch employing offices and their covered employees

8:57 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

8:56 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. Con. Res. 77.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Faleomavaega moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H. Res. 1757:

providing for the approval of final regulations issued by the Office of Compliance to implement the Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998 that apply to the House of Representatives and employees of the House of Representatives

8:55 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

8:51 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1757.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Faleomavaega moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H. Res. 20:

calling on the State Department to list the Socialist Republic of Vietnam as a “Country of Particular Concern” with respect to religious freedom

8:50 P.M. –

At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Faleomavaega objected to the vote on the grounds that a quorum was not present. Further proceedings on the motion were postponed. The point of no quorum was withdrawn.

8:05 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 20.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Berman moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

S. 987:

to protect girls in developing countries through the prevention of child marriage, and for other purposes

8:04 P.M. –

7:53 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House continued with further debate on S. 987.

Mr. Polis (CO) filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 1766.

S. 987:

to protect girls in developing countries through the prevention of child marriage, and for other purposes

7:42 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 987.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Berman moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

H. Res. 1765:

supporting a negotiated solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and condemning unilateral measures to declare or recognize a Palestinian state, and for other purposes

7:41 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

7:08 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1765.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Berman moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

S. 3447:

to amend title 38, United States Code, to improve educational assistance for veterans who served in the Armed Forces after September 11, 2001, and for other purposes

7:07 P.M. –

6:48 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 3447.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Filner moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

S. 3860:

to require reports on the management of Arlington National Cemetery

6:47 P.M. –

6:25 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 3860.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Filner moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

H.R. 6517:

6:24 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

6:23 P.M. –

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.

5:50 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 6517.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Levin moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

H.R. 4337:

to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify certain rules applicable to regulated investment companies, and for other purposes

5:49 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion that the House suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendment Agreed to by voice vote.

5:41 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on the Senate amendment to H.R. 4337.

Mr. Levin moved that the House suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendment.

S. 841:

to direct the Secretary of Transportation to study and establish a motor vehicle safety standard that provides for a means of alerting blind and other pedestrians of motor vehicle operation

5:39 P.M. –

5:30 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 841.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Barrow moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

5:29 P.M. –

The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until a time to be announced.

H.R. 2965:

to amend the Small Business Act with respect to the Small Business Innovation Research Program and the Small Business Technology Transfer Program, and for other purposes

5:24 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion that the House agree with an amendment to the Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 250 – 175 (Roll no. 638).

4:54 P.M. –

The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.

3:21 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1764, the House proceeded with 1 hour of debate on the motion to agree to the Senate amendment to H.R. 2965 with an amendment.

3:20 P.M. –

Mrs. Davis (CA) moved that the House agree with an amendment to the Senate amendment.

Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1764, the Chair recognized Mrs. Davis of California for a motion.

H. Res. 1743:

congratulating Gerda Weissmann Klein on being selected to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom

3:16 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended Agreed to by recorded vote (2/3 required): 407 – 0 (Roll no. 637).

3:08 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H. Res. 1761:

congratulating Auburn University quarterback and College Park, Georgia, native Cameron Newton on winning the 2010 Heisman Trophy for being the most outstanding college football player in the United States

3:07 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 378 – 15, 18 Present (Roll no. 636).

3:00 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on adoption of motions to suspend the rules which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.

H. Res. 1764:

providing for consideration of the Senate amendment to the bill ( H.R. 2965) to amend the Small Business Act with respect to the Small Business Innovation Research Program and the Small Business Technology Transfer Program, and for other purposes

2:59 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 232 – 180 (Roll no. 635).

2:29 P.M. –

The House resumed with consideration of H. Res. 1764.

The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate agreed to the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R. 4853 with an amendment.

H. Res. 1764:

2:28 P.M. –

The previous question was ordered without objection.

1:44 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 1764

Considered as privileged matter.

1:42 P.M. –

Ms. Pingree (ME) filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 1764.

H.R. 6205:

to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 1449 West Avenue in Bronx, New York, as the “Private Isaac T. Cortes Post Office”

1:40 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 399 – 0 (Roll no. 634).

1:31 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

S. Con. Res. 72:

recognizing the 45th anniversary of the White House Fellows Program

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by recorded vote (2/3 required): 401 – 1 (Roll no. 633).

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

1:22 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H. Res. 1759:

expressing support for designation of January 23rd as “Ed Roberts Day”

1:21 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 390 – 8, 4 Present (Roll no. 632).

1:12 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 5446:

to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 600 Florida Avenue in Cocoa, Florida, as the “Harry T. and Harriette Moore Post Office”

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 405 – 0 (Roll no. 631).

12:41 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

S. 30:

to amend the Communications Act of 1934 to prohibit manipulation of caller identification information

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.

12:15 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 30.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Boucher moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

S. 3386:

to protect consumers from certain aggressive sales tactics on the Internet

12:14 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.

12:03 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 3386.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Boucher moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

S. 3199:

to amend the Public Health Service Act regarding early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of hearing loss

12:02 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.

11:48 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 3199.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Pallone moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

S. 3036:

to establish the Office of the National Alzheimer’s Project

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.

11:32 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 3036.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Pallone moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

H. Res. 1600:

supporting the critical role of the physician assistant profession and supporting the goals and ideals of National Physician Assistant Week

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.

11:24 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1600.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Pallone moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended.

S. 1774:

for the relief of Hotaru Nakama Ferschke

11:23 A.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.

11:14 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 1774.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Ms. Chu moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

S. 4010:

for the relief of Shigeru Yamada

11:13 A.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.

11:06 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 4010.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

11:05 A.M. –

Ms. Chu moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

H. Res. 1761:

10:53 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1761.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Altmire moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H.R. 6494:

to amend the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 to improve the Littoral Combat Ship program of the Navy

10:51 A.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.

10:31 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 6494.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Taylor moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

10:30 A.M. –

The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until a time to be announced.

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 a message from the Secretary of the Senate on December 15, 2010, at 9:40 a.m. stating that that body had passed S. 4005.

10:04 A.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.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Tonko to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.

10:03 A.M. –

Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Daniel Coughlin.

The House convened, starting a new legislative day.