The Senate stands adjourned until 9:30am on Wednesday, March 18, 2015.

Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in a period of morning business for one hour with the Democrats controlling the first half and the Republicans controlling the final half. Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of S.178, a bill to provide justice for the victims of human trafficking.

As a reminder, Senator McConnell filed cloture (again) on the committee-reported substitute amendment to S.178 and on the underlying bill. The filing deadline for all first-degree amendments to the committee-reported substitute and the underlying bill is 1:00pm tomorrow, Wednesday, March 18. The cloture vote on the substitute would occur one hour after the Senate convenes on Thursday. Senator McConnell also entered a motion to reconsider today’s failed cloture votes and could reconsider those at any point.

2:08pm The Senate began a 15 minute roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the committee-reported substitute amendment to S.178, Trafficking, upon reconsideration. We expect one roll call vote expected at this time.

Not agreed to: 57-41.

WRAP UP

Roll Call Votes

1. Motion to invoke cloture on the committee-reported substitute amendment to S.178, upon reconsideration; not agreed to: 57-41.

Legislative Business

Began the rule 14 process to place on the Legislative Calendar of Business H.R.1191, Protecting Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Responders Act

Executive Business

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Last Floor Action:
10:00:40 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.

10:00:25 A.M.		The House convened, starting a new legislative day.
10:00:30 A.M.		The Speaker designated the Honorable Cresent Hardy to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.
10:00:40 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.

12:00:56 P.M.		The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 18.
12:01:00 P.M.		Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Dr. Mark Gooden, Munsey Memorial United Methodist Church, Johnson City, Tennessee
12:03:06 P.M.		The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.
12:03:08 P.M.		PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mrs. Beatty to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
12:04:22 P.M.	H. Res. 155	Considered as privileged matter. H. Res. 155 — “Electing a Member to a certain standing committee of the House of Representatives.”
12:04:34 P.M.	H. Res. 155	On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.
12:04:38 P.M.	H. Res. 155	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
12:04:57 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.

12:32:16 P.M.		The House received a communication from The Honorable Bob Goodlatte. Pursuant to Rule VIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives, Mr. Goodlatte notified the House that he had been served with a subpoena for documents by the United States District Court and that after consulation with the Office of General Counsel, he had determined that compliance is not consistent with the privileges and rights of the House.
12:32:45 P.M.	H.R. 1030	Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 138. H.R. 1030 — “To prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency from proposing, finalizing, or disseminating regulations or assessments based upon science that is not transparent or reproducible.”
12:32:50 P.M.	H.R. 1030	For each measure, resolution provides one hour of general debate; makes specified amendments in order; and allows a motion to recommit, with or without instructions.
12:32:59 P.M.	H.R. 1030	House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 138 and Rule XVIII.
12:33:00 P.M.	H.R. 1030	The Speaker designated the Honorable Garret Graves to act as Chairman of the Committee.
12:33:12 P.M.	H.R. 1030	GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 1030.
1:21:35 P.M.	H.R. 1030	An amendment, offered by Ms. Edwards, numbered 1 printed in Part B of House Report 114-37 to authorize $250 million for each of fiscal years 2016 through 2019.
1:22:01 P.M.	H.R. 1030	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 138, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Edwards Part B amendment No. 1.
1:32:23 P.M.	H.R. 1030	POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Edwards amendment No. 1, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Ms. Edwards demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.
1:32:39 P.M.	H.R. 1030	An amendment, offered by Mr. Kennedy, numbered 2 printed in Part B of House Report 114-37 to allow the EPA to use all peer-reviewed scientific publications.
1:33:53 P.M.	H.R. 1030	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 138, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Kennedy Part B amendment No. 2.
1:41:51 P.M.	H.R. 1030	POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Kennedy amendment No. 2, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Kennedy demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.
2:09:19 P.M.	H.R. 1030	On agreeing to the Edwards amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 164 – 254 (Roll no. 122).
2:14:03 P.M.	H.R. 1030	On agreeing to the Kennedy amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 184 – 231 (Roll no. 123).
2:14:09 P.M.	H.R. 1030	The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 1030.
2:14:56 P.M.	H.R. 1030	The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.
2:15:05 P.M.	H.R. 1030	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.
2:16:48 P.M.	H.R. 1030	Mr. Takai moved to recommit with instructions to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
2:17:17 P.M.	H.R. 1030	DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Takai 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 add a new section at the end of the bill pertaining to protecting taxpayers from science promoted by polluting companies, pending a reservation of a point of order. Subsequently, the reservation was removed.
2:26:30 P.M.	H.R. 1030	The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.
2:33:39 P.M.	H.R. 1030	On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by recorded vote: 181 – 239 (Roll no. 124).
2:40:07 P.M.	H.R. 1030	On passage Passed by recorded vote: 241 – 175 (Roll no. 125).
2:40:08 P.M.	H.R. 1030	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
2:40:28 P.M.		Mr. Collins (GA) asked unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 9:00 a.m. on March 19. Agreed to without objection.
2:41:18 P.M.		ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.
2:50:48 P.M.		SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.
3:51:34 P.M.		Ms. Foxx moved that the House do now adjourn.
3:51:41 P.M.		On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.
3:51:42 P.M.		The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on March 19, 2015.

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featured image is from Official Google

The Senate stands adjourned until 10:00am on Tuesday, March 17, 2015.

Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of S.178, with the time until 11:00am equally divided between the two Leaders or their designees.

The filing deadline for all second-degree amendments to the committee-reported substitute amendment to S.178 and the underlying bill is set for 10:30am.

Tuesday, 11:00am—Up to 2 roll call votes:

1. Motion to invoke cloture on the committee-reported substitute amendment to S.178, a bill to provide justice for victims of human trafficking.

If cloture is not invoked

2. Motion to invoke cloture on S.178, a bill to provide justice for victims of human trafficking.

The Senate will recess from 12:30 until 2:15pm to allow for the weekly caucus meetings.

11:01am The Senate began a 15 minute roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Committee-reported substitute to S.178, a bill to provide justice for victims of human trafficking;

Not Invoked: 55-43

Senator McConnell changed his vote to no and entered a motion to reconsider the failed vote so that the Senate can reconsider the cloture vote at a later time.

Next:

Cloture on S.178, a bill to provide justice for victims of human trafficking.

11:29am The Senate began a 15 minute roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on S.178, a bill to provide justice for victims of human trafficking;

Not Invoked: 55-43

Senator McConnell changed his vote to no and entered a motion to reconsider the failed vote so that the Senate can reconsider the cloture vote at a later tim

Senator McConnell filed cloture (again) on the committee-reported substitute amendment to S.178, trafficking, and on the underlying bill.

The filing deadline for all first-degree amendments to the committee-reported substitute and the underlying bill is 1:00pm tomorrow, Wednesday, March 18.

The cloture vote on the substitute would occur one hour after the Senate convenes on Thursday.

As a reminder, Senator McConnell also entered a motion to reconsider today’s failed cloture votes and he could reconsider those at any point. We don’t anticipate any roll call votes tonight.

The Senate is now in a period of morning business with senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

WRAP UP

Roll Call Votes

1. Motion to invoke cloture on the committee-reported substitute amendment to S.178; not invoked: 55-43.
2. Motion to invoke cloture on S.178; not invoked: 55-43.

Legislative Business

Executive Business

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Last Floor Action:
4:20:43 P.M. – SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.

Last Floor Action:
8:28:15 P.M. – The House adjourned.

The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on March 17, 2015.

10:00:25 A.M.		The House convened, starting a new legislative day.
10:00:36 A.M.		The Speaker designated the Honorable George Holding to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.
10:01:05 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.
10:11:58 A.M.		The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 P.M. today.
12:00:21 P.M.		The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 17.
12:00:45 P.M.		Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend John Randalls, Victory Life Church, Lubbock, Texas.
12:02:29 P.M.		The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.
12:02:33 P.M.		PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Emmer of MN to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
12:03:10 P.M.		INTRODUCTION OF GUEST CHAPLAIN – The Chair recognized Mr. Neugebauer for the purpose of introducing today’s Guest Chaplain.
12:04:38 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.
12:28:41 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 March 17, 2015, at 9:19 a.m.: Appointments as follows: Senate Delegation to the British-American Interparliamentary Group Conference; Senate Delegation to the Canada-U.S. Interparliamentary Group Conference; Senate Delegation to the Mexico-U.S. Interparliamentary Group Conference; U.S. China Interparliamentary Group Conference; and Congressional-Executive Commission on the People’s Republic of China.
12:29:30 P.M.	H. Res. 138	Considered as privileged matter. H. Res. 138 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 1029) to amend the Environmental Research, Development, and Demonstration Authorization Act of 1978 to provide for Scientific Advisory Board member qualifications, public participation, and for other purposes, and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 1030) to prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency from proposing, finalizing, or disseminating regulations or assessments based upon science that is not transparent or reproducible.”
12:34:20 P.M.	H. Res. 138	DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 138.
1:49:39 P.M.	H. Res. 138	On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 232 – 181 (Roll no. 116).
1:56:42 P.M.	H. Res. 138	On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by recorded vote: 236 – 180 (Roll no. 117).
1:56:43 P.M.	H. Res. 138	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
1:56:49 P.M.		UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question of adoption of a motion to suspend the rules which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.
1:57:50 P.M.	H.R. 1191	Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 1191 — “To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to ensure that emergency services volunteers are not taken into account as employees under the shared responsibility requirements contained in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.”
2:03:47 P.M.	H.R. 1191	On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 415 – 0 (Roll no. 118).
2:03:47 P.M.	H.R. 1191	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
2:04:01 P.M.	H.R. 1029	Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 138. H.R. 1029 — “To amend the Environmental Research, Development, and Demonstration Authorization Act of 1978 to provide for Scientific Advisory Board member qualifications, public participation, and for other purposes.”
2:05:01 P.M.	H.R. 1029	House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 138 and Rule XVIII.
2:05:02 P.M.	H.R. 1029	The Speaker designated the Honorable Kevin Yoder to act as Chairman of the Committee.
2:05:10 P.M.	H.R. 1029	GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 1029.
2:41:21 P.M.	H.R. 1029	An amendment, offered by Mr. Grayson, No. 1 printed in part A of House Report 114-37 to prohibit an EPA Science Advisory Board member from participating in any advisory action for which there is evidence that the action may involve a specific party in which the member has an interest.
2:41:23 P.M.	H.R. 1029	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 138, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Grayson (FL) Part A amendment No. 1.
2:45:00 P.M.	H.R. 1029	On agreeing to the Grayson amendment; Agreed to by voice vote.
2:45:40 P.M.	H.R. 1029	An amendment, offered by Mr. McKinley, No. 2 printed in Part A of House Report 114-37 to prohibit an individual from sitting on the Board if they are currently receiving EPA contracts or grants and would then prohibit them from being allowed to apply for, 3 years after serving as a Board member, for any EPA contracts or grants.
2:45:42 P.M.	H.R. 1029	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 138, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the McKinley (WV) Part A amendment No. 2.
2:51:32 P.M.	H.R. 1029	POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the McKinley (WV) Part A amendment No. 2, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Ms. Bonamici demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption ofthe amendment until a time to be announced.
2:52:10 P.M.	H.R. 1029	An amendment, offered by Mr. Polis, No.3 printed in Part A of House Report 114-37 to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to solicit nominations for Advisory Board membership from (1) Institutions of Higher Education and (2) research institutions based in work relevant to that of the Board.
2:52:12 P.M.	H.R. 1029	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 138, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Polis (CO) Part A amendment No. 3.
2:57:11 P.M.	H.R. 1029	On agreeing to the Polis amendment; Agreed to by voice vote.
2:57:29 P.M.	H.R. 1029	An amendment, offered by Ms. Bonamici, numbered 4 printed in Part A of House Report 114-37 to improve the selection of members for EPA’s Science Advisory Board by increasing transparency and ensuring balance among board participants and promotes public participation in the Board’s review process.
2:57:33 P.M.	H.R. 1029	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 138, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 20 minutes of debate on the Bonamici Part A amendment No. 4.
3:10:49 P.M.	H.R. 1029	On agreeing to the Bonamici amendment; Failed by voice vote.
3:39:54 P.M.	H.R. 1029	On agreeing to the McKinley amendment; Agreed to by recorded vote: 242 – 175 (Roll no. 119).
3:40:10 P.M.	H.R. 1029	The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 1029.
3:40:51 P.M.	H.R. 1029	The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.
3:41:51 P.M.	H.R. 1029	Mr. Peters moved to recommit with instructions to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
3:42:12 P.M.	H.R. 1029	DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Peters 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 add a new section at the end of the bill pertaining to Protecting Taxpayers from Science Promoted by Polluting Companies. Pending a reservation of a point of order. Subsequently, the reservation was removed.
3:50:21 P.M.	H.R. 1029	The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.
3:50:22 P.M.		MOMENT OF SILENCE – The Chair asked the House to observe a moment of silence for the members of the Louisiana National Guard and the Marines that were killed in the tragic accident off the coast of Florida.
3:58:33 P.M.	H.R. 1029	On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by recorded vote: 179 – 237 (Roll no. 120).
4:08:12 P.M.	H.R. 1029	On passage Passed by recorded vote: 236 – 181 (Roll no. 121).
4:08:13 P.M.	H.R. 1029	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
4:08:34 P.M.		Ms. Foxx filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 152.
4:09:50 P.M.		ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.
4:20:43 P.M.		SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.

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 climate change

The Senate stands adjourned until 3:00pm on Monday, March 16, 2015.

Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in a period of morning business for one hour. Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of S.178, a bill to provide justice for victims of human trafficking. At 5:00pm, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session for up to 30 minutes, with the time equally divided, to consider Executive Calendar numbers 17 and 18. Upon the use or yielding back of time (approximately 5:30pm) the Senate will vote on confirmation of the nominations.

Monday, approximately 5:30pm—1 roll call vote, 1 voice vote expected

1. Executive Calendar #17 Carlos Monje, of Kouisiana, to be an Assistant Secretary of Transportation (roll call vote)
2. Executive Calendar #18, Manson K. Brown, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Commerce (voice vote expected)

As a reminder, Senator McConnell filed cloture on the committee-reported substitute amendment to S.178 and on the underlying bill. The filing deadline for all first-degree amendments to the substitute and the underlying bill is set for 5:00pm on Monday, March 16. We expect the cloture vote on the substitute to occur Tuesday morning (11:00am range).The filing deadline for second degree amendments will be around 10:00am on Tuesday, March 17.

Tuesday, approximately 11:00am

1. Motion to invoke cloture on committee-reported substitute amendment to S.178, a bill to provide justice for victims of human trafficking.

Last week, Senator McConnell filed cloture on the committee-reported substitute amendment to S.178 and on the underlying bill. The filing deadline for all first-degree amendments to the substitute and the underlying bill is set for 5:00pm today, Monday, March 16. We expect the cloture vote on the substitute to occur Tuesday morning in the 11:00am range. We also expect to set a filing deadline for second-degree amendments for around 10:00am tomorrow, Tuesday, March 17.

Tuesday, approximately 11:00am

1. Motion to invoke cloture on committee-reported substitute amendment to S.178, a bill to provide justice for victims of human trafficking.

The Senate is in a period of morning business for one hour. Following morning business (approximately 4:10pm), the Senate will resume consideration of S.178, a bill to provide for the victims of human trafficking. At 5:00pm, the Senate will enter Executive Session.

At 5:30pm, there will be a series of votes on confirmation of the Monje (Executive Calendar #17) and Brown (Executive Calendar #18) nominations. We expect a roll call vote on the Monje nomination followed by a voice vote on the Brown nomination.

Monday, approximately 5:30pm—1 roll call vote, 1 voice vote expected

1. Executive Calendar #17 Carlos Monje, of Louisiana, to be an Assistant Secretary of Transportation (roll call vote)
2. Executive Calendar #18, Manson K. Brown, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Commerce (voice vote expected)

5:31pm The Senate began a 15 minute roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #17 Carlos Monje, of Louisiana, to be an Assistant Secretary of Transportation;

Confirmed: 94-0

Next—voice vote expected:

• Executive Calendar #18, Manson K. Brown, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Commerce.

The Monje nomination was confirmed 94-0. The Senate then confirmed the Brown nomination by voice vote. The Senate is in a period of morning business with Senator Cotton permitted to speak for up to 45 minutes (Maiden Speech) and for Senator Brown to speak for up to 15 minutes.

The cloture vote on the substitute amendment to S.178, trafficking, will occur at 11:00am tomorrow, Tuesday, March 17. If cloture is not invoked, there would be an immediate cloture vote on the underlying bill. Senators should expect 2 roll call votes at 11:00am tomorrow.

The filing deadline for second degree amendments for the Committee reported substitute amendment and S.178 is 10:30am tomorrow. If cloture is invoked, germane second degree amendments must be filed prior to the deadline to be considered in order post-cloture. Senators with amendments should send their amendments to the cloakroom prior to the deadline so that we may file it at the desk for you.

WRAP UP

Roll Call Votes

1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #17 Carlos Monje, of Louisiana, to be an Assistant Secretary of Transportation; Confirmed: 94-0.

Legislative Business

Executive Business

Confirmed the following nomination by voice vote:

1. Executive Calendar #18, Manson K. Brown, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Commerce.

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Last Floor Action:
8:28:15 P.M. – The House adjourned.

The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on March 17, 2015.

Last Floor Action:3/10
11:06:29 A.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now adjourn pursuant to section 2(b) of H. Res. 134.

The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. on March 16, 2015.

12:00:08 P.M.		The House convened, starting a new legislative day.
12:00:24 P.M.		The Speaker designated the Honorable Tom Emmer to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.
12:00:41 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.
12:06:11 P.M.		The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 2:00 P.M. today.
2:00:41 P.M.		The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 16.
2:01:50 P.M.		Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.
2:01:55 P.M.		The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.
2:02:02 P.M.		PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Kildee to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
2:02:23 P.M.		ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches.
2:04:25 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 March 16, 2015 at 10:38 a.m.: That the Senate agreed to S. Con. Res. 7.
2:05:48 P.M.		The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.
3:30:22 P.M.		The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 16.
3:30:33 P.M.		The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until 6:30 p.m. today.
3:31:07 P.M.	H.R. 639	Mr. Pitts moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 639 — “To amend the Controlled Substances Act with respect to drug scheduling recommendations by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, and with respect to registration of manufacturers and distributors seeking to conduct clinical testing.”
3:31:30 P.M.	H.R. 639	Considered under suspension of the rules.
3:31:33 P.M.	H.R. 639	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 639.
3:39:52 P.M.	H.R. 639	On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
3:39:54 P.M.	H.R. 639	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
3:40:39 P.M.	H.R. 647	Mr. Burgess moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 647 — “To amend title XII of the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize certain trauma care programs, and for other purposes.”
3:40:57 P.M.	H.R. 647	Considered under suspension of the rules.
3:40:59 P.M.	H.R. 647	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 647.
3:47:18 P.M.	H.R. 647	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.
3:47:35 P.M.	H.R. 648	Mr. Burgess moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 648 — “To amend title XII of the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize certain trauma care programs, and for other purposes.”
3:47:48 P.M.	H.R. 648	Considered under suspension of the rules.
3:47:49 P.M.	H.R. 648	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 648.
3:54:13 P.M.	H.R. 648	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.
3:54:15 P.M.		The House received a communication from the Honorable Will Hurd. Mr. Hurd (TX) submitted his resignation from the Committee on Small Business. The resignation was accepted without objection.
3:55:03 P.M.		The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for approximately 4:30 p.m. today.
4:30:40 P.M.		The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 16.
4:31:24 P.M.	H.R. 876	Mr. Ryan (WI) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 876 — “To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to require hospitals to provide certain notifications to individuals classified by such hospitals under observation status rather than admitted as inpatients of such hospitals.”
4:32:45 P.M.	H.R. 876	Considered under suspension of the rules.
4:32:46 P.M.	H.R. 876	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 876.
4:45:27 P.M.	H.R. 876	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.
4:46:00 P.M.	H.R. 284	Mr. Ryan (WI) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 284 — “To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to require State licensure and bid surety bonds for entities submitting bids under the Medicare durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS) competitive acquisition program, and for other purposes.”
4:46:02 P.M.	H.R. 284	Considered under suspension of the rules.
4:46:03 P.M.	H.R. 284	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 284.
4:53:03 P.M.	H.R. 284	On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
4:53:05 P.M.	H.R. 284	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
4:54:03 P.M.	H.R. 1191	Mr. Ryan (WI) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 1191 — “To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to ensure that emergency services volunteers are not taken into account as employees under the shared responsibility requirements contained in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.”
4:54:05 P.M.	H.R. 1191	Considered under suspension of the rules.
4:54:10 P.M.	H.R. 1191	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 1191.
5:02:06 P.M.	H.R. 1191	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.
5:02:36 P.M.		The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 6:30 P.M. today.
6:30:36 P.M.		The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 16.
6:30:40 P.M.		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.
6:31:38 P.M.	H.R. 647	Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 647 — “To amend title XII of the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize certain trauma care programs, and for other purposes.”
6:56:52 P.M.	H.R. 647	On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 389 – 10 (Roll no. 113).
6:56:52 P.M.	H.R. 647	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
6:56:53 P.M.	H.R. 648	Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 648 — “To amend title XII of the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize certain trauma care programs, and for other purposes.”
7:04:47 P.M.	H.R. 648	On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 382 – 15 (Roll no. 114).
7:04:47 P.M.	H.R. 648	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
7:05:36 P.M.	H.R. 876	Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 876 — “To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to require hospitals to provide certain notifications to individuals classified by such hospitals under observation status rather than admitted as inpatients of such hospitals.”
7:11:29 P.M.	H.R. 876	On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 395 – 0 (Roll no. 115).
7:11:29 P.M.	H.R. 876	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
7:11:51 P.M.		Mrs. Miller (MI) filed a report from the Committee on House Administration on H. Res. 132.
7:12:33 P.M.	S. Con. Res. 7	Mrs. Miller (MI) asked unanimous consent to take from the Speaker’s table and consider.
7:12:54 P.M.	S. Con. Res. 7	Considered by unanimous consent. S. Con. Res. 7 — “Authorizing the use of Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center for a ceremony to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the World War II members of the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders.”
7:12:57 P.M.	S. Con. Res. 7	On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.
7:13:02 P.M.	S. Con. Res. 7	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
7:15:27 P.M.		ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.
7:28:43 P.M.		SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.
8:28:00 P.M.		National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity – Pursuant to 20 U.S.C. 1011c, and the order of the House of January 6, 2015, the Minority Leader appointed Dr. George T. French, Fairfield, Alabama; Dr. Kathleen Sullivan Alioto, New York, New York and Mr. Ralph A. Wolff, Oakland, California for a six year terms.
8:28:03 P.M.		Ms. Kelly (IL) moved that the House do now adjourn.
8:28:10 P.M.		On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.
8:28:15 P.M.		The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on March 17, 2015.

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The Senate stands adjourned until 9:30am on Thursday, March 12, 2015.

Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in a period of morning business for one hour, with the Republicans controlling the first half and Democrats controlling the final half. Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of S.178, a bill to provide justice for the victims of trafficking.

At 1:30pm, the Senate will enter Executive Session for up to 30 minutes equally divided on Executive Calendar #20 and #16.

Approximately 2:00pm—1 roll call vote, 1 voice vote expected:

1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #20, Christopher A. Hart, of Colorado, to be Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board for a term of two years;
2. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #16, Tho Dinh-Zarr, of Texas, to be a Member of the National Transportation Safety Board for the remainder of the term expiring December 31, 2018 (voice vote expected).

Amendments pending to S.178:

1. Portman amendment #270 (identification and assessment of child victims of sex trafficking)
2. Portman amendment #271 (definition of “homeless person”)
3. Vitter second degree amendment #284 (citizenship) to Portman #271

Senator McConnell asked the following unanimous consent request with respect to S.178, justice for the victims of trafficking:

“I ask unanimous consent that when the Senate resumes consideration of S.178 that it be in order for Senator Leahy, or his designee, to offer an amendment to strike the limitations language; that there be up to one hour of debate on the amendment equally divided between the managers, or their designees, and that following the use or yielding back of the time, the Senate vote on the amendment.  Further, that following disposition of this amendment, the managers, or their designees, be allowed to offer amendments in an alternating fashion.”

Senator Reid objected to the request.

2:11pm The Senate began a 15 minute roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #20, Christopher A. Hart, of Colorado, to be Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board.

Confirmed: 97-0.

Next, voice vote expected:

1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #16, Tho Dinh-Zarr, of Texas, to be a Member of the National Transportation Safety Board

The Hart nomination was confirmed by a vote of 97-0. The Senate then confirmed the Dinh-Zarr nomination by voice vote.

Senator McConnell filed cloture on the committee-reported substitute amendment to S.178 and on the underlying bill. The filing deadline for all first-degree amendments to the substitute and the underlying bill is set for 5:00pm on Monday, March 16. We expect the cloture vote on the substitute to occur Tuesday morning (could be in the 11:00am range).The filing deadline for second degree amendments will be around 10:00am on Tuesday, March 17.

The Senate is now in a period of morning business with senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

No further roll call votes are expected this week.

At 5:00pm on Monday, March 16^th, the Senate will proceed to the consideration of the following nominations:

• Executive Calendar #17 Carlos Monje, of Kouisiana, to be an Assistant Secretary of Transportation, and
• Executive Calendar #18, Manson K. Brown, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Commerce.

There will be up to 30 minutes for debate equally divided prior to votes on confirmation of the nominations in the order listed. If all time is used, the first vote would begin at approximately 5:30pm. We expect a voice vote on the Brown nomination.

WRAP UP

Roll Call Votes

1. Confirmation of Executive Calendar #20, Christopher A. Hart, of Colorado, to be Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board for a term of two years; Confirmed: 97-0.

Legislative Business

Adopted S.Res.85, honoring the life and legacy of Georgia Jones-Ayers.

Agreed to S.Con.Res.7, authorizing the use of Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center for a ceremony to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the World War II members of the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders.

Executive Business

Confirmed the following nomination by voice vote:

1. Executive Calendar #16, Tho Dinh-Zarr, of Texas, to be a Member of the National Transportation Safety Board for the remainder of the term expiring December 31, 2018.

Confirmed the following nominations by unanimous consent:

1. Executive Calendar #3, Michael Greco, of New York, to be United States Marshal for the Southern District of New York for the term of four years
2. Executive Calendar #4, Ronald Lee Miller, of Kansas, to be United States Marshal for the District of Kansas for the term of four years

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Last Floor Action:
11:06:29 A.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now adjourn pursuant to section 2(b) of H. Res. 134.

The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. on March 16, 2015.

Last Floor Action: 3/10
12:02:21 P.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now adjourn pursuant to section 2(b) of H. Res. 134.

The next meeting is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on March 13, 2015.

11:00:34 A.M.		The House convened, starting a new legislative day.
11:00:38 A.M.		The Speaker designated the Honorable Barbara Comstock to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.
11:01:03 A.M.		Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Peter Frank, Church of the Epiphany, Herndon, Virginia.
11:02:10 A.M.		Pursuant to section 2(a) of H. Res. 134, the Journal of the last day’s proceedings was approved.
11:02:21 A.M.		PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair led the House in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
11:02:51 A.M.		The House received a message from the Clerk. Pursuant to the permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II of the Rul 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 March 11, 2015 at 11:20 a.m.: That the Senate made appointments to the Advisory Committee on the Records of Congress.
11:04:12 A.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 March 10, 2015 at 9:12 a.m.: That the Senate passed H.R. 1213; appointments to the Advisory Committee on the Records of Congress and the Board of Trustees of the Harry S Truman Scholarship Foundation.
11:04:13 A.M.		Congressional Award Board – Pursuant to section 803(a) of the Congressional Recognition for Excellence in Arts Education Act (2 U.S.C. 803(a)), the Minority Leader appointed Mr. Romero Brown, Acworth, Georgia.
11:05:20 A.M.		The House received a message from the Clerk. Pursuant to section 4(d) of H. Res. 5, 114th Congress, and section 1(k) of H. Res. 895, 110th Congress, the Clerk notified the House that Porter J. Gross, David E. Skaggs, Judy Biggert, Jay Eagen, Karan L. English, Allison Hayward, Belinda Pinckney, Michael D. Barnes, Omar Ashmawy, Kelly Brewington, William H. Cable, Helen Eisner, Mary K. Flanagan, Scott Gast, Bryson Baird Morgan, Paul Solis, and Nate Wright, each have signed an agreement not to be a candidate for the off of Senator or Representative in, or Delegate or Resident Commissioner to, the Congress for purpose of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 until at least 3 years after he or she is no longer a member of the board or staff of the Office of Congressional Ethics. The message further stated that copies of the signed agreements shall be retained by the Office of the Clerk as part of the records of the House.
11:06:09 A.M.		The House received a communication from The Honorable Adam B. Schiff, Member of Congress. Mr. Schiff notified the House that he would be taking a leave of absence from the house Appropriations Committee for the remainder of the 114th Congress.
11:06:29 A.M.		The Speaker announced that the House do now adjourn pursuant to section 2(b) of H. Res. 134. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. on March 16, 2015.

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The Senate stands adjourned until 9:30am on Wednesday, March 11, 2015.

Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in a period of morning business for one hour, with the Democrats controlling the first half and Republicans controlling the final half. Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of S.178, a bill to provide justice for the victims of trafficking.

Amendments pending to S.178:

1. Portman amendment #270 (identification and assessment of child victims of sex trafficking)
2. Portman amendment #271 (definition of “homeless person”)

The Senate has resumed consideration of S.178, a bill to provide justice for the victims of trafficking. Currently 2 Portman amendments are pending to the bill. Discussions on a path forward are ongoing; however, no votes are scheduled at this time.

Senator Toomey asked unanimous consent to set aside the pending amendment in order to call up Toomey amendment #285 (school employee background checks). Senator Brown objected.

Senator Vitter proposed (a second degree) amendment #284 (citizenship) to Portman #271.

 

Amendments pending to S.178:

• Portman amendment #270 (identification and assessment of child victims of sex trafficking)
• Portman amendment #271 (definition of “homeless person”)
  • Vitter second degree amendment #284 (citizenship) to Portman #271

Amendments pending to S.178:

• Portman amendment #270 (identification and assessment of child victims of sex trafficking)
• Portman amendment #271 (definition of “homeless person”)
  • Vitter second degree amendment #284 (citizenship) to Portman #271

The Senate will recess from 4-5pm to allow for a Republican conference meeting.

The Senate is in a period of morning business with senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

At 1:30pm tomorrow, Thursday, March 12, the Senate will turn to Executive Session to consider the following nominations:

 

• Executive Calendar #20, Christopher A. Hart, of Colorado, to be Chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board (roll call vote).
• Executive Calendar #16, Tho Dinh-Zarr, of Texas, to be a Member of the National Transportation Safety Board (voice vote)

 

There will be 30 minutes for debate prior to votes on confirmation of the nominations in the order listed. We expect a roll call vote on the Hart nomination and a voice vote on the Dinh-Zarr nomination. If all time is used, the first vote would begin at approximately 2:00pm.

WRAP UP

Roll Call Votes

Legislative Business

Executive Business

 

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Last Floor Action: 3/10
12:02:21 P.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now adjourn pursuant to section 2(b) of H. Res. 134.

The next meeting is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on March 13, 2015.

12:00:08 P.M.		The House convened, starting a new legislative day.
12:00:18 P.M.		The Speaker designated the Honorable Andy Harris to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.
12:00:35 P.M.		Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Scott Sina, St. John the Beloved Catholic Church, McLean, VA
12:00:36 P.M.		Pursuant to section 2(a) of H. Res. 134, the Journal of the last day’s proceedings was approved.
12:01:16 P.M.		PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair led the House in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
12:02:21 P.M.		The Speaker announced that the House do now adjourn pursuant to section 2(b) of H. Res. 134. The next meeting is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on March 13, 2015.

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