Cost Estimate for H.R. 2445, State and Local Funding Flexibility Act
Cost estimate for the bill as ordered reported by the House Committee on Education and the Workforce on July 13, 2011
just another manic Monday …&some News
Today the President will talk about the debt ceiling, the deficit and announce a new consumer protection agency as well as the head that will definitely protect us consumers.
It’s summer here but only reaching around 69 and lasting about 2-3days – just another rant coming up below …
I am willing to accept anyone as long as the new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau head has Elizabeth Warren’s seal of approval. Contrary to what the professional and or elite left might be stating this is not worthy of staying at home instead of voting for all Democrats in 2012 , voting right of center or whatever they all seem to be pushing at the moment which i cannot even put into writing … i don’t plan to go there. I get it …we have a huge tent with a lot of different views and beliefs but since none have been the President of the US of A before i say unless you know what happened behind closed doors don’t be so easy to throw your leader to the wolves. I gotta say I do not get throwing the leader over the cliff if you don’t get your way right away attitude at all especially after the last guy left without paying for the 2Wars & 2Tax cuts for his rich oil friends and who must have outsourced all that money because the man only created about 3million jobs in 8yrs.
The next few weeks and months, leading up to the 2012 elections the talk will be filled with good, bad, and ugly rhetoric mostly by folks who are paid to rile the base on both sides of the aisle. The last few weeks have given us all some eye opening news what with some telling us they are liberals when in actuality they are something more right of center but they get paid to play both sides of the aisle. It must be difficult getting a check in “the media industry”…. I guess. We have online blogs, newspapers, and op-eds and some not all have comment pages that require your email address in order to respond. There are new activist news blogs, or so-called online news sources, newspapers with well-known folks writing op-eds some try to pass them off as the truth others know they have an audience who expects negative rhetoric pumping up the opposition on what I have to say are non-partisan issues. I do not normally respond to comment pages but John Nichols is a well-known progressive reporter/writer and like many other progressives are doing some damage to the cohesiveness of a Political Party that has a huge tent yet leans left. I am not likely to believe everything in an article or interview word for word, no matter who it is. I read the stuff but i would not be so mindless to take what he or anyone else says and vote for or against anything let alone President Obama in 2012 just because of the rhetoric, but hey, that is just me. It is clear a number of so-called writers have been using headlines to bash the President and call me sensitive but people who read them and decide the person writing them is speaking to you personally is beyond my understanding. I have a tendency to want the information and the facts from say the President or others in control instead of those playing political games or mind games. The environment is ripe with doom and gloom but as we get closer to that August 2nd deadline, it does seem more of a reality than folks including me want to believe. It is also offensive to listen to Republican members of Congress act as if the impact from not raising the debt ceiling is a scare tactic and not the truth. I ask … why do we have to find out but then reality hits and truth is both sides of the aisle see this as the big moment to change the way we all live our lives. The problem is one side is devoted to a family values platform, practices exclusion, discrimination and those who already have feel they should have even more while others paraphrasing Jeff sessions that have none need to work harder for a better life… is that with no safety-net?. Yes, it is. I wonder if they went so far as to imagine what our neighborhoods would like after about a month. The haves would be doing their thing while the used to have are barely living and the others well the image I have is one that looks like a third World country. I am sure those who were unwilling to work for minimum wage jobs are outsourced and if you happen to be an out of work union person and failed to comply with the new deal expect to be held to a low wage job because the party of tea said so. Last, women, gays, and minorities would be “seen but definitely not heard”. Yes, the story, a seemingly hazy fictional thing full of BS, but listen to those running for President from the right. If you cleared away the Republican haze you would see the future and it could be green it definitely seems like a FDR moment but as we all know this is not the Republicans most might say they disagreed with but respected. We all know life has changed as the last guy took a surplus spent it and while the ship was sinking not too much was being done to fix it. So, we know the last guy had a surplus, didn’t pay for, but waged 2wars and 2huge Tax cuts to the rich the part where things fall apart is a bit blurry but some say recessions are cyclical. I do not believe this is a typical recession year; in fact it feels like that car though a complete wreck by now is about to be totaled by Republicans with behavior unfit for any Public Servant. I have to say that any member Congress who signed off on the Grover Norquist pledge failed to take their position seriously and obviously do not understand their jobs, or realize that they represent the people of America not just their state. If you listen to the likes of a Kucinich’s or pundits, writers and reporters like this guy you should probably keep in mind that most articles now are filled with opinion news and should be taken in topically. I get progressives have a short memory and along with that a short loyalty program. I have to say when you are armed with the facts you do not give up on your Leader. We should put his feet to the fire but telling people to show your distaste by not voting is reckless and irresponsible. It is not lost on me that professional or elite progressives are more likely to have tantrums, a personal agenda or choose to bypass talking to members of Congress by throwing in a 3rd option which got us into the predicament we are now in. I resent them and the people who drank the kook-aid because they should have been more aware of the obvious. Again, this is not your father’s conservative political party; it is a ruthless somewhat tyrannical, racist, exclusionist group. They do not deserve to govern, and as we see, the House of Representatives led by Republicans seem unable to represent all Americans let alone govern. I don’t know about you but I have to ask myself daily if folks have been paying attention for the last 24months or watching even the slight opposition of our own members of Congress voting in ways that hamper President Obama. I was glad to see that most if not all blue dogs were voted out, yet the filibustering done by the Republican Tea Party, the stalling ,blocking and scaling down of bills, nominees has gone unacknowledged by most talking heads with strange comments of who ultimately has to take responsibility for the problems that are not getting solved. I read the op-ed and have since lumped Nichols with hamsher, adamgreen, arrianna and others who clearly have an agenda that is far more left of center and while it makes sense to them left the whole idea is to represent all the people and that is a centrist. I would not begin to assume all people lean left but we do have two factions who seem to be willing to ruin it for everyone. I am not saying that I am happy with everything the President has done but weighing in on who has done more to stop progress is glaring not to mention McConnell’s statement to make Obama a one term President is just one of many reasons why we should all give the President a 2ndterm. I will say it …if Republicans had actually put in a good faith effort to move forward with legislation designed to help all Americans and the outcome was as we all see it today. I would have to think about whom to vote for in any election. The fact is …It’s the Republicans Stupid. People need to get informed with facts not take an Op –Ed or opinion news to decide your future. I do know that legislation is created and passed by Congress, that Republicans & big Corporations are sitting on billions of dollars instead of investing in America, have laid off and outsourced over 1.5million jobs to china, India and Mexico since Obama was elected. It does not help when Americans hear news of a republican member of Congress possibly having bets against the system while in Congress seems illegal to me and crooks, liars and the shady need not apply to be a part of Congress or the Whitehouse.
I support Pres. Obama and will vote for Barack Obama in 2012 because I know given the tools to move forward we all would have the opportunity for the following and much more such as green jobs, can rest knowing that the Hyde Amendment is intact, women have the right to choose and think for themselves. That we are a people who care about each other and believe in Fair Share, clean water, clean air, climate change, love and marry whom you want. It is difficult to think people out there do not see the obstacles he has had getting legislation through let alone believe it is coming from an extreme part of the Republican Party and some conservadems. The 2010 midterms are usually a no big deal event but voters though warned by President Obama failed or refused to listen to what was at stake, members of Congress were to self-centered opting to focus on their own campaigns instead of what lay before them … American issues. There were pundits that obviously had some sway telling folks to stay home or voting right of center. I will never understand voting against your own interest when the stakes are so high and I will never forget the BS thrown at us by people who call themselves progressives who must have been right of center to begin with not to mention opinion news. -People who actually vote need to use their own minds instead of listening to someone who really does not care about you however; they do care about their own ratings and wages though.
I still have hope for change but we need the audacity to see the future. Unfortunately, Republicans really want to protect right of center ideology …, which only about 20% of our population believes in – does this make any sense?
Other News …
J.Lo and Marc Anthony will still do reality show
Eye test for Alzheimer’s could revolutionize diagnosis: How does it work?
Casey Anthony Release: Parents Refused to be Decoys
Debt Ceiling Debate Moves From White House to Congress, Prospects Uncertain
What did you think of the final ‘Harry Potter’ film?
US General Petraeus hands over command in Afghanistan amid wave of attacks
stunned by heartbreaking loss to Japan in Women’s World Cup final
CSPSN …
Former “Gang of Six” Member Unveils Spending Plan
Congress working on debt limit plans
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Obama to Pick Richard Cordray to Head New Consumer Agency
Known as outspoken bank critic
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NRC Chairman Discusses Nuclear Power Industry
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Liette Gidlow of Wayne State University in Detroit specializes in 20th century politics, women’s history, and culture. In this week’s class, Professor Gidlow looks at the issue of civil rights in the early 1990’s.
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Thomas Jefferson purchased a 1,334 acre tract in Virginia as a testing ground for various agricultural methods and labor systems – experiments that presented alternatives to slavery. In this discussion, a panel reflects on Jefferson’s motivations, his relationship with his confidante William Short, and their exchange of ideas on how to best manage this land known first as “Indian Camp” and then later named Morven.
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Congress: Are they working for ALL Americans ? the Republican led House -the Senate
the Senate Convenes at 2pmET July 18, 2011
- Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in morning business until 3:30pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.
- Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R.2055, the Military Construction, Veterans’ Affairs and related agencies Appropriations bill.
- At 5:00pm, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to consider Calendar #82, the nomination of J. Paul Oetken, of New York, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of New York with 30 minutes of debate equally divided between Senators Leahy and Grassley.
- Upon the use or yielding of time (at approximately 5:30pm), the Senate will conduct a roll call vote on confirmation of the Oetken nomination.
The pending Johnson-Kirk amendment #556 (report on Arlington National Cemetery) to H.R.2055, the Military Construction, Veterans’ Affairs and related agencies Appropriations bill has been modified. The modification provides for additional Senate and House committees to receive the report.
- At approximately 5:30pm, the Senate will conduct a roll call vote on confirmation of the nomination of J. Paul Oetken, of New York, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of New York.
VOTES
5:32pm The Senate began a roll call vote on confirmation of the nomination of J.Paul Oetken to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of New York; Confirmed: 80-13
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Adopted S.Con.Res.25, welcoming the independence of the Republic of South Sudan, congratulating the people of South Sudan for freely and peacefully expressing their will through an internationally accepted referendum, and calling on the Governments and people of Sudan and South Sudan to peacefully resolve outstanding issues including the final status of Abyei.
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The next meeting in the House is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. on July 18, 2011.
CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF JULY 18, 2011
112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION
7:36 P.M. – SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House resumed with special order speeches.
7:35 P.M. – Mr. Woodall filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 355.
7:06 P.M. – SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.
7:05 P.M. – ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches.
7:04 P.M. – On approving the Journal Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 244 – 56, 1 Present (Roll no. 602).
- H.R. 33:
- to amend the Securities Act of 1933 to specify when certain securities issued in connection with church plans are treated as exempted securities for purposes of that Act
6:57 P.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 the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 310 – 1 (Roll no. 601).
6:30 P.M. – Considered as unfinished business.UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was on the motion to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 33which had been debated earlier as well as the Speaker’s approval of the Journal on which further proceedings had been postponed.
The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 18.
5:07 P.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 6:30 P.M. today.
- H.R. 33:
- to amend the Securities Act of 1933 to specify when certain securities issued in connection with church plans are treated as exempted securities for purposes of that Act
5:06 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.
5:03 P.M. – DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 33.Considered under suspension of the rules.
5:02 P.M. – Mrs. Biggert moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.
5:01 P.M. – The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until 6:30 p.m. today.
5:00 P.M. – The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 18.
2:11 P.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.
2:03 P.M. – ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches.
2:02 P.M. – PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Wilson of SC to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS ON APPROVAL OF THE JOURNAL – The Chair announced that he had examined the Journal of the last day’s proceedings and had approved it. Mr. Nugent demanded that the question be put on agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal and by voice vote, the Chair announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Nugent objected to the voice vote based upon the absence of a quorum and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of agreeing to the approval of the Journal until later in the legislative day. The point of no quorum was considered as withdrawn.
2:00 P.M. – Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 18.
12:01 P.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 2:00 P.M. today.
12:00 P.M. – MORNING-HOUR DEBATE – The House proceeded with Morning-Hour Debate. At the conclusion of Morning-Hour, the House will recess until 2:00p.m. for the start of legislative business.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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Addressing the Debt and Deficit will take Shared Sacrifices
July 15, 2011
Addressing the Debt and Deficit will take Shared Sacrifices
As we work to put together a deal to raise the debt limit, reduce the deficit and debt, and stave off an economic crisis – I believe that the sacrifices required need to be shared. It wouldn’t be right to ask middle class families, students, and our seniors to bear this heavy burden alone, while the very wealthiest corporations and individuals get off scot-free. That’s why on Wednesday I delivered a speech on the Senate floor to push for a balanced approach that recognizes that we must make smart cuts while also protecting seniors and addressing our national jobs deficit.
I believe it’s time for all sides to embrace compromise and assure Americans that their benefits and financial safety won’t be jeopardized by petty partisanship or political games. Families, seniors, and businesses in Washington state and across America are counting on us to get this right, and I am proud to stand up for their priorities.
Bridging the Gaps in VA Mental Health Care
On Thursday, I chaired a hearing of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee to address shortcomings in VA mental health care that have contributed to unacceptable waiting times for care, rising suicide levels, and a series of negative reports from VA watchdogs. At the hearing I heard from Daniel Williams, an Iraq veteran who described how an IED explosion during his 2003/2004 deployment to Iraq led to traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) injuries. Williams told the committee how those experiences then led to a suicide attempt in 2004 that was broken up by his wife and local police. He also discussed how his PTSD was received by fellow soldiers, his concerns over the stigma attached to the mental wounds of war, and his frustrations with the mental health care administered by the VA.
I also heard testimony from Andrea Sawyer, wife and caregiver of Loyd Sawyer, who, after being deployed in Iraq, shared similar stories of frustration, including a failed suicide attempt. These two servicemembers, even after attempting to take their own lives, were met with red tape, wait times for initial appointments at the VA, and additional frustrations in seeking the mental health care they so desperately needed. These undue burdens are unacceptable and I will continue asking the tough questions until our service men and women have access to the quality of mental health care they deserve.
Helping Veterans Get off the Streets and Into Safe and Secure Housing
This week, I announced that public housing authorities in Washington state would receive a total of 175 housing vouchers to help local homeless veterans and their families get off the streets and into permanent housing. The vouchers, which can be used by eligible veterans for rental assistance in their local community, are a key reason why we are making real progress toward goals to finally end veterans homelessness. For some veterans, this support is long overdue, and I’m glad that homeless veterans across Washington state will have an opportunity to secure stable housing.
Commemorating Hanford’s Role in WWII and the Cold War
Earlier this week, I applauded the recommendation by the Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar and the National Park Service that Congress establish a national historic park to commemorate the Manhattan Project at three sites where much of the critical scientific activity associated with the project occurred, including Hanford, Washington. Hanford’s B Reactor played a critical role in the history of our nation, and establishing a national historical park will attract visitors from across the country and give them an opportunity to learn about and reflect on the contribution made by Hanford and the Tri-Cities during World War II and the Cold War.
“B Reactor recommended for national historical park” – Tri-City Herald
Ending Unfair Mexican Tariffs Once and For All
Last week, I applauded the agreement Department of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood signed with the Mexican government that will result in them dropping their tariffs on U.S. agricultural products by 50% in the next few days. Mexico has committed to eliminating the tariffs completely once the agreement becomes operational. This is great news for farmers and growers in Washington who have been suffering under these unfair and deeply damaging tariffs for far too long. Now that the agreement is signed, there is no reason why Washington farmers and growers should have to wait any longer. They have nothing to do with this dispute, and it is deeply unfair that they continue to be punished for it.
“Deal resolves dispute that needlessly hurt growers” – Yakima Herald
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Cement in Silicon Valley …Patrick Schmitt, Change.org
California keeps a list of law-abiding quarries that are allowed to sell cement to government-funded projects. The list protects citizens by preventing quarries that violate state labor, mining, and environmental laws from getting any state funding.
Unfortunately, there’s one major, glaring exception: Lehigh Southwest Permanente Cement and Quarry in Santa Clara County has gotten away with ignoring state requirements since 2002 yet sells 85 percent of its cement to state-funded projects.
Lehigh is one of the top-polluting cement plants in the country — and the largest in an urban area. Their mining operation and manufacturing process pollute the air with mercury and send poisonous byproducts into rivers and creeks.
Cupertino City Councilman Barry Chang has had enough of Lehigh’s hazardous practices and blatant disregard for the law. He’s started a Change.org petition calling on the Office of Mine Reclamation and the State Mining and Geology Board to take over from Lehigh-influenced county officials and hold the quarry accountable. Click here to sign Councilman Chang’s petition.
All cement plants emit some mercury as well as carcinogens and asthma-inducing particulates, but Lehigh expels higher-than-average levels of all of these pollutants. Its limestone is especially high in mercury, which affects brain development.
If Lehigh isn’t put in check soon, they’ll have license to continue violating pollution laws — and move forward with plans to expand that will jeopardize more residents.
The community at large has already made major progress pressuring Lehigh – and local group No Toxic Air is suing the quarry for its extreme environmental violations. But residents need more public support to defeat Lehigh.
By holding Lehigh accountable, we can set a precedent for other communities in California and around the country facing industries that endanger communities and the environment.
Lehigh has been hurting the environment and its residents for more than 70 years. That’s far too long. Sign here to keep Lehigh from receiving any government funding until it cleans up its act — or shuts down:
Thanks for taking action,
– Patrick and the Change.org team
Be a Seed for Change 
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