Tag Archives: Executive session

Black History

Congress: Republicans control the House & their Highway Bill passed 237-178 1dem voted w/Rs – the Senate considers S.2230,Paying a Fair Act&S.2204,Repeal Big Oil Tax subsidies Act


the Senate Convened at  9:30am ET March 29, 2012

  • Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the motion to proceed to S.2230, the Paying a Fair Act with the time until 11:30am equally divided and controlled between the two Leaders or their designees with the Majority controlling the first 30 minutes and the Republicans controlling the second 30 minutes.
  • As a reminder to all Senators, cloture was filed on S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act during Tuesday’s session of the Senate. The filing deadline for 2nd degree amendments to S.2204 is 10:30am on Thursday.
  • At approximately 11:30am, there will be a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act.
  • The Surface Transportation bill expires at the end of the month; that will have to be addressed prior to the scheduled recess.

At 11:15am, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act.

The filing deadline for 2nd degree amendments to S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act is 10:30am today.

11:15am The Senate began a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.2044, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act; Not Invoked: 51-47

 This afternoon Senator Reid asked unanimous consent the Senate proceed to vote on passage of H.R.4281, the Surface Transportation Extension Act.

Senate passes H.R.4281, 90-day extension of Surface Transportation bill

Senators Boxer, Cardin, Whitehouse, and Landrieu reserved their right to object and asked that the request be modified so that an amendment, which is the text of S.1813, the Surface Transportation bill passed by the Senate on March 14, 2012, be agreed to; the bill as amended, be read a third time and passed. Senator McConnell objected to each of the requests.The Senate then passed H.R.4281 by a voice vote.

There will be no further roll call votes this week. Senators should expect the next vote on Monday, April 16.

This evening Senator Reid filed cloture on the motion to proceed to Legislative Calendar #339, S.2230, the Paying a Fair Share Act. The cloture vote will occur following the 5:30pm judge vote on Monday, April 16.

The Senate has reached an agreement to consider Executive Calendar #460, the nomination of Stephanie Dawn Thacker, of West Virginia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fourth Circuit. At 4:30pm on Monday, April 16, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to consider the Thacker nomination with 60 minutes for debate equally divided. Upon the use or yielding back of time (approx. 5:30pm), the Senate will proceed to vote on confirmation of the nomination.

WRAP UP

ROLL CALL VOTE

1)      Motion to invoke cloture on S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act; Not Invoked: 51-47

LEGISLATIVE ITEMS

Passed H.R.4281, the Surface Transportation Extension Act (90-day extension) by voice vote

Adopted S.Con.Res.38, to provide for the conditional adjournment of the Senate and House of Representatives over until April 16.

Passed H.R.2297, to promote the development of the Southwest waterfront in the District of Columbia, and for other purposes with a Lieberman amendment.

Adopted S.Res.80, a resolution condemning the Government of Iran for its state-sponsored persecution of its Baha’I minority and its continued violation of the International Covenants on Human Rights with a Paul amendment by voice vote

Adopted S.Res.356, a resolution expressing support for the people of Tibet with a Committee-reported amendment to the preamble by voice vote

Adopted S.Res.391, a resolution condemning violence by the Government of Syria against journalists, and expressing the sense of the Senate on freedom of the press in Syria with a Committee-reported amendment to the preamble by voice vote

Adopted S.Res.395, A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate in support of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and the NATO summit to be held in Chicago, IL from May 20-21, 2012 with a Committee-reported amendment to the preamble by voice vote

Adopted S.Res.397, a resolution promoting peace and stability in Sudan, and for other purposes with a Committee-reported amendment to the preamble by voice vote

Adopted S.Res.414, commemorating the 125th Anniversary of the University of North Carolina at Pembroke

Adopted S.Res.415, designating April 4, 2012 as National Association of Junior Auxiliaries Day.

Adopted S.Res.416, supporting the designation of April as Parkinson’s Awareness Month

Began the Rule 14 process of H.R.5, Help Efficient, Accessible, Low-cost, Timely Healthcare (HEALTH) Act of 2011 (Republican request).

EXECUTIVE ITEMS

Discharged the Commerce Committee and confirmed:

COAST GUARD

PN1134 – Coast Guard VADM John P. Currier to be Vice Commandant

PN1135 – Coast Guard  RADM Paul F. Zukunft to the rank of Vice Admiral

PN1136 – Coast Guard VADM Manson K. Brown to be Deputy Commandant for Mission Support

PN1137 – Coast Guard RADM Peter V. Neffenger to the rank of Vice Admiral

PN1312 – three Coast Guard officers to the rank of Captain.

Confirmed all nominations on the Secretary’s desk in the Foreign Service and the following:

CORPORATION FOR NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE

Executive Calendar #258 Phyllis Nichamoff Segal – to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and Community Service

Executive Calendar #259 Lisa M. Quiroz — to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and

Community Service

Executive Calendar #262 Marguerite W. Kondracke — to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and Community Service

Executive Calendar #264 Richard Christman – to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for National and Community Service

FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION

Executive Calendar #344 Martin J. Gruenberg – to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (Reappointment)

DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY

Executive Calendar #346 Thomas J. Curry – to be Comptroller of the Currency

DEPARTMENT OF STATE

Executive Calendar #422 Michael A. Hammer – to be an Assistant Secretary of State (Public Affairs)

DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

Executive Calendar #493 Charles DeWitt McConnell – to be an Assistant Secretary of Energy (Fossil Energy)

Executive Calendar #494 David T. Danielson – to be an Assistant Secretary of Energy (Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy)

Executive Calendar #495 LaDoris Guess Harris – to be Director of the Office of Minority Economic Impact, Department of Energy

Executive Calendar #496 Gregory Howard Woods – to be General Counsel of the Department of Energy

STATE JUSTICE INSTITUTE

Executive Calendar #499 James R. Hannah – to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the State Justice Institute

Executive Calendar #500 Daniel J. Becker – to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the State Justice Institute

DEPARTMENT OF STATE

Executive Calendar #504 Roberta S. Jacobson – to be an Assistant Secretary of State (Western Hemisphere Affairs),

Executive Calendar #505 Elizabeth M. Cousens – to be Representative of the United States of America on the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, with the rank of Ambassador.

Executive Calendar #506 Elizabeth M. Cousens – to be an Alternate Representative of the United States of America to the Sessions of the General Assembly of the United Nations, during her tenure of service as Representative of the United States of America on the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Executive Calendar #507 Michael E. Horowitz – to be Inspector General

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Executive Calendar #511 Rebecca M. Blank – to be Deputy Secretary of Commerce

FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION

Executive Calendar #514 Jon D. Leibowitz – to be a FTC for a term of seven years from September 26, 2010

Executive Calendar #515 Maureen K. Ohlhausen – to be a FTC for a term of seven years from September 26, 2011

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Executive Calendar #516 Kathryn Keneally – to be an Assistant Attorney General

DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

Executive Calendar #517 Maurice A. Jones – to be Deputy Secretary of Housing and Urban Development

FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION

Executive Calendar #520 Thomas Hoenig – to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for a term of six years

NATIONAL FOUNDATION ON THE ARTS AND THE HUMANITIES

Executive Calendar #521 Deepa Gupta – to be a Member of the National Council on the Arts for a term expiring Sept. 3, 2016

Executive Calendar #522 Christopher Merrill – to be a Member of the National Council on the Humanities for a term expiring Jan. 26, 2016

NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY

Executive Calendar #523 Stephanie Orlando – to be a Member of the National Council on Disability for the remainder of the term expiring Sept. 17, 2011

Executive Calendar #524 Stephanie Orlando – to be a Member of the National Council on Disability for a term expiring Sept. 17, 2014

Executive Calendar #525 Gary Blumenthal – to be a Member of the National Council on Disability for a term expiring Sept. 17, 2013

CORPORATION FOR NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE

Executive Calendar #526 Wendy M. Spencer – to be Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation for National and Community Service

DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY

Executive Calendar #541 Mary John Miller – to be an Under Secretary of the Treasury

UNITED STATES TAX COURT

Executive Calendar #543 Kathleen Kerrigan – to be a Judge of the United States Tax Court for the term of fifteen years

DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY

Executive Calendar #544 Alastair M. Fitzpayne – to  be a Deputy Under Secretary of the Treasury

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Executive Calendar #546 Margaret Ann Sherry – to be Chief Financial Officer, Department of Homeland Security

INTER-AMERICAN FOUNDATION

Executive Calendar #547 Eduardo Arriola – to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Inter-American Foundation for a term expiring Oct. 6, 2016

Executive Calendar #548 J. Kelly Ryan – to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Inter-American Foundation for the remainder of the term expiring Sept. 20, 2012

OVERSEAS PRIVATE INVESTMENT CORPORATION

Executive Calendar #549 Michael James Warren – to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation

SAINT LAWRENCE SEAWAY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

Executive Calendar #550 David J. McMillan – to be a Member of the Advisory Board of the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation

Executive Calendar #551 Wenona Singel – to be a Member of the Advisory Board of the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Executive Calendar #553 Anuj Chang Desai – to be a Member of the Foreign Claims Settlement Commission of the United States for the term expiring September 30, 2011

Executive Calendar #554 Anuj Chang Desai – to be a Member of the Foreign Claims Settlement Commission of the United States for the term expiring September 30, 2014

Executive Calendar #555 Dennis J. Erby – to be United States Marshal for the Northern District of Mississippi for the term of four years

UNITED STATES AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Executive Calendar #556 Earl W. Gast – to be an Assistant Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development

DEPARTMENT OF STATE

Executive Calendar #557 Anne Claire Richard – to be an Assistant Secretary of State (Population, Refugees, and Migration)

Executive Calendar #558 Tara D. Sonenshine – to be Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy

Executive Calendar #559 Robert E. Whitehead –to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States to the Togolese Republic

Executive Calendar #560 Larry Leon Palmer – to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Barbados, and to serve concurrently and without additional compensation as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda, the Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, and Saint Vincent and the Granadines

Executive Calendar #561 Jonathan Don Farrar – to be a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Panama

Executive Calendar #562 Phyllis Marie Powers – to be a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Nicaragua

Executive Calendar #563 Nancy J. Powell – to be a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Personal Rank of Career Ambassador, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to India

FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION

Executive Calendar #564 Bruce J. Sherrick – to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Agriculture Mortgage Corporation

Executive Calendar #565 Chester John Culver – to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Agriculture Mortgage Corporation

JAMES MADISON MEMORIAL FELLOWSHIP FOUNDATION

Executive Calendar #608 Catherine Allgor – to be a Member of the Board of Trustees of the James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation for a term expiring Sept. 27, 2014

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Executive Calendar #614 Thomas M. Harrigan – to be Deputy Administrator of Drug Enforcement

DEPARTMENT OF STATE

Executive Calendar #629 Gina K. Abercrombie-Winstanley—to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Malta

Executive Calendar #630 Julissa Reynoso—to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Oriental Republic of Uruguay

Executive Calendar #631 William E. Todd—to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Kingdom of Cambodia

Executive Calendar #632 Jacob Walles—to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Tunisian Republic

Executive Calendar #633 Pamela A. White—to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Haiti

Executive Calendar #634 John Christopher Stevens—to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Libya

Executive Calendar #635 Tracey Ann Jacobson—to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Kosovo

Executive Calendar #636 Kenneth Merten—to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Croatia

Executive Calendar #637 Mark A. Pekala—to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Latvia

Executive Calendar #638 Richard B. Norland—to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Georgia.

Executive Calendar #639 Jeffrey D. Levine—to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Estonia.

DEPARTMENT OF STATE

Executive Calendar #641 Frederick D. Barton—to be an Assistant Secretary of State (Conflict and Stabilization Operations), vice Bradford R. Higgins.

Executive Calendar #642 Frederick D. Barton—to be Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization

Executive Calendar #643 Linda Thomas-Greenfield—to be Director General of the Foreign Service

FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION

Executive Calendar #648 Jeremiah O’Hear Norton—to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for the remainder of the term expiring July 15, 2013

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Executive Calendar #649 Gregory K. Davis—to be United States Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi for the term of four years

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We all must Consider what is in HR600 that the Democratic Party voted NO to a Highway bill that needed to be passed before the end of March

The House Passes the Ryan Budget 228 – 191, though it kills Medicare as we all know it – This bill will not pass the Senate

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF MARCH 29, 2012

 112TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION

 -The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on March 30, 2012.4:38:27 P.M. -On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.4:38:17 P.M. -Mr. Ellison moved that the House do now adjourn.3:41:47 P.M. -SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.3:28:46 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.3:27:45 P.M. -Public Interest Declassification Board – Pursuant to section 703(c) of the Public Interest Declassification Act of 2000 (50 U.S.C., 435 note), the Minority Leader re-apppointed Mr. David E. Skaggs of Longmont, Colorado .3:27:30 P.M. -Mr. Price (GA) asked unanimous consent That, when the House adjourns on Friday, April 13, 2012, it adjourn to meet at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, April 16, 2012. Agreed to without objection.3:27:00 P.M. -Mr. Price (GA) asked unanimous consent That, when the House adjourns on Tuesday, April 10, 2012, it adjourn to meet at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 13, 2012. Agreed to without objection.3:26:34 P.M. -Mr. Price (GA) asked unanimous consent That, when the House adjourns on Friday, April 6, 2012, it adjourn to meet at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 10, 2012. Agreed to without objection.3:26:33 P.M. -Mr. Price (GA) asked unanimous consent That, when the House adjourns on Tuesday, April 3, 2012, it adjourn to meet at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 6, 2012. Agreed to without objection.3:26:31 P.M. -Mr. Price (GA) asked unanimous consent That, when the House adjourns on Friday, March 30, 2012, it adjourn to meet at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 3, 2012. Agreed to without objection.3:26:30 P.M. -Mr. Price (GA) asked unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 11:00 a.m. on March 30. Agreed to without objection.3:26:02 P.M. -The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate passed H.R. 4281.3:25:46 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.3:25:46 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 228 – 191 (Roll no. 151).3:05:08 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.3:04:08 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H. Con. Res. 112.2:37:31 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112GENERAL DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 597, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with an additional 20 minutes of debate on H. Con. Res. 112.2:36:03 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112On agreeing to the Van Hollen amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 163 – 262 (Roll no. 150).1:30:32 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 597, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 30 minutes of debate on the Van Hollen amendment in the nature of a substitute.1:30:27 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112An amendment, in the nature of a substitute offered by Mr. Van Hollen,  numbered 6 printed in House Report 112-423 to emphasize job creation, protecting Medicare beneficiaries, and ending additional tax breaks for special interests and the wealthiest Americans by including a number of job-creation initiatives, preserving the Medicare guarantee, and extending tax relief for the middle-class. The amendment also sets discretionary spending at the Budget Control Act levels and using alternative savings to replace that law’s future sequesters.1:29:30 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112The House resolved into Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for further consideration.1:29:07 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112Considered as unfinished business. H. Con. Res. 112 — “Establishing the budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2013 and setting forth appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2014 through 2022.”1:29:00 P.M. -H.R. 4239On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Failed by voice vote.1:28:02 P.M. -H.R. 4239Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 4239 — “To provide an extension of Federal-aid highway, highway safety, motor carrier safety, transit, and other programs funded out of the Highway Trust Fund pending enactment of a multiyear law reauthorizing such programs.”1:27:03 P.M. -H.R. 4239VACATING ORDERED ROLL CALL VOTE – Mr. Mica asked unanimous consent that the ordering of the yeas and nays on the motion that the House suspend the rules and pass H.R. 4239, as amended, be vacated to the end that the Chair put the question de novo. Agreed to without objection.1:26:58 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union rises leaving H. Con. Res. 112 as unfinished business.1:26:49 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112On motion that the Committee rise Agreed to by voice vote.1:26:23 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112Mr. Ryan (WI) moved that the Committee rise.1:26:06 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112On agreeing to the Garrett amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 136 – 285, 3 Present (Roll no. 149).12:13:20 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 597, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 30 minutes of debate on the Garrett amendment in the nature of a substitute.12:13:01 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112An amendment, in the nature of a substitute offered by Mr. Garrett,  numbered 5 printed in House Report 112-423 to make reforms to several federal programs, freeze spending at $931 billion until the federal budget is balanced, and balance the budget by 2017.12:12:33 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112On agreeing to the Honda amendment Failed by recorded vote: 78 – 346 (Roll no. 148).11:55:56 A.M. -H. Con. Res. 112UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was on adoption of the Honda amendment in the nature of a substitute, which had been debated on earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.11:54:58 A.M. -H. Con. Res. 112The House resolved into Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for further consideration.11:54:41 A.M. -H. Con. Res. 112Considered as unfinished business. H. Con. Res. 112 — “Establishing the budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2013 and setting forth appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2014 through 2022.”11:54:12 A.M. -H.R. 4281Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.11:54:11 A.M. -H.R. 4281On passage Passed by the Yeas and Nays: 266 – 158 (Roll no. 147).11:25:52 A.M. -H.R. 4281The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.10:30:38 A.M. -H.R. 4281DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H.R. 4281.10:28:43 A.M. -H.R. 4281Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 4281 with 1 hour of general debate. Previous question shall be considered as ordered without intervening motions except motion to recommit with or without instructions. Measure will be considered read. Bill is closed to amendments. The resolution waives clause 6(a) of rule XIII requiring a two-thirds vote to consider a report from the Committee on Rules on the same day it is presented to the House.10:28:38 A.M. -H.R. 4281Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 600. H.R. 4281 — “To provide an extension of Federal-aid highway, highway safety, motor carrier safety, transit, and other programs funded out of the Highway Trust Fund pending enactment of a multiyear law reauthorizing such programs.”10:28:16 A.M. -H. Res. 600Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.10:27:51 A.M. -H. Res. 600On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.10:27:49 A.M. -H. Res. 600On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 237 – 178 (Roll no. 146).9:14:46 A.M. -H. Res. 600DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 600.9:13:35 A.M. -H. Res. 600Considered as privileged matter. H. Res. 600 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4281) to provide an extension of Federal-aid highway, highway safety, motor carrier safety, transit, and other programs funded out of the Highway Trust Fund pending enactment of a multiyear law reauthorizing such programs, and for other purposes.”9:03:00 A.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches.9:02:57 A.M. -The Speaker announced approval of the Journal.  Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.9:01:44 A.M. -Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.9:01:05 A.M. -The Speaker designated the Honorable Charles F. Bass to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.9:00:58 A.M. -The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

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~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

Congress: the House controlled by Republicans – the Senate considers S.2230.Fair Share Act,S.2204,Repeal Big Oil


the Senate Convenes at 10:00amET March 28, 2012

  • Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the motion to proceed to S.2230, the Paying A Fair Share Act with the first hour equally divided and controlled between the two Leaders or their designees with the Republicans controlling the first half and the Majority controlling the final half.
  • As a reminder to all Senators, cloture was filed on S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act during Tuesday’s session. The filing deadline for first degree amendments to S.2204 is 11:00am on Wednesday.
  • At 5:00pm, the Senate proceed to Executive Session to consider the following:

The two votes originally scheduled for 6pm will now occur at 5:30pm.

By consent at 4:30pm today, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session with 1 hour for debate prior to a series of 2 roll call votes. As a result, senators should expect 2 roll call votes to begin at 5:30pm on confirmation of the following nominations:

–Executive Calendar #464, Miranda Du, of NV, to be US District Judge for the District of Nevada; and

–Executive Calendar #497, Susie Morgan, of LA, to be US District Judge for the Eastern District of Louisiana

5:33 pm The Senate began a roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #464, Miranda Du, of NV, to be United States District Judge for the District of Nevada; Confirmed: 59-39

5:58pm The Senate began a roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #487, Susie Morgan, of LA, to be United State District Judge for the Eastern District of Louisiana; Confirmed: 96-1

There will be no further roll call votes this evening.

The filing deadline for 2nd degree amendments to S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act is 10:30am on Thursday, March 29th. If your Senator has a germane 2nd degree amendment and would like to preserve his or her ability to offer, please send a signed copy of the amendment to the cloakroom prior to the deadline.  If you have already filed, there is no need to re-file.

At approximately 11:30am on Thursday, March 29th, there will be a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act.

Wrap Up

ROLL CALL VOTES

1)      Confirmation of Executive Calendar #464, Miranda Du, of NV, to be United States District Judge for the District of Nevada; Confirmed: 59-39

2)      Confirmation of Executive Calendar #487, Susie Morgan, of LA, to be United State District Judge for the Eastern District of Louisiana; Confirmed: 96-1

LEGISLATIVE ITEMS

Adopted S.Res.408, supporting the goals and ideals of “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day”.

Adopted S.Res.409, designating April 2012 as “Financial Literacy Month”.

Completed the Rule 14 process of H.R.4014, a bill to amend the Federal Deposit Insurance Act with respect to information provided to the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection. (Republican request)

Completed the Rule 14 process of H.R.2779, a bill to exempt inter-affiliate swaps from certain regulatory requirements put in place by Dodd-Frank. (Republican request)

Completed the Rule 14 process of H.R.2682, a bill to provide end user exemptions from certain provisions of the Commodity Exchange Act and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. (Republican request)

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF MARCH 28, 2012

 112TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION

-The House adjourned pursuant to a previous special order. The next meeting is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on March 29, 2012.10:29:53 P.M. -On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.10:29:45 P.M. -Mr. Yoder moved that the House do now adjourn.10:28:23 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union rises leaving H. Con. Res. 112 as unfinished business.10:28:10 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112On motion that the Committee rise Agreed to by voice vote.10:27:34 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112Mr. McClintock moved that the Committee rise.10:27:11 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Honda (CA) substitute amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Honda (CA) demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.9:49:16 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 597, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 30 minutes of debate on the Honda amendment in the nature of a substitute.9:49:04 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112An amendment, in the nature of a substitute offered by Mr. Honda,   numbered 4 printed in House Report 112-423 consisting of the Congressional Progressive Caucus alternative to provide for deficit reduction and job creation that protects the social safety net.9:47:52 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112The House resolved into Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for further consideration.9:47:40 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112Considered as unfinished business. H. Con. Res. 112 — “Establishing the budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2013 and setting forth appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2014 through 2022.”9:46:46 P.M. -Mr. Webster filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 600.9:46:10 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union rises leaving H. Con. Res. 112 as unfinished business.9:45:57 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112On motion that the Committee rise Agreed to by voice vote.9:45:29 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112Mr. Ryan (WI) moved that the Committee rise.9:45:07 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112On agreeing to the Cooper amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 38 – 382, 2 Present (Roll no. 145).9:38:09 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112On agreeing to the Cleaver amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 107 – 314 (Roll no. 144).9:31:00 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112On agreeing to the Mulvaney amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 0 – 414 (Roll no. 143).9:07:11 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question of adoption of amendments which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.9:06:53 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Cooper (TN) substitute amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Cooper (TN) demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.8:39:51 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 597, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 20 minutes of debate on the Cooper (TN) amendment in the nature of a substitute.8:39:39 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112An amendment, in the nature of a substitute offered by Mr. Cooper,   numbered 3 printed in House Report 112-423 to utilize Simpson-Bowles recommendations for establishment of the budget for FY 2013 and to set forth the appropriate budgetary levels for FY 2014 through FY 2022.8:38:39 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Cleaver (MO) substitute amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Cleaver (MO) demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.8:05:09 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 597, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 30 minutes of debate on the Cleaver (MO) amendment in the nature of a substitute.8:05:01 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112An amendment, in the nature of a substitute offered by Mr. Cleaver,   numbered 2 printed in House Report 112-423 to make investments in education, job training, transportation and infrastructure, that will accelerate the economic recovery and would protect the social safety net without cutting Social Security, Medicaid or Medicare and close certain corporate tax loopholes and preferences, saving trillions of dollars on the deficit over the next decade.8:04:45 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Mulvaney (SC) substitute amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Mulvaney (SC) demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.7:42:17 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 597, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 20 minutes of debate on the Mulvaney amendment in the nature of a substitute.7:42:07 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112An amendment, in the nature of a substitute offered by Mr. Mulvaney,   numbered 1 printed in House Report 112-423 to strike the text of the bill and insert President Obama’s budget proposal as scored by CBO.2:55:44 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with four hours of general debate on H. Con. Res. 112.2:55:31 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112The Speaker designated the Honorable John Kline to act as Chairman of the Committee.2:55:28 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 597 and Rule XVIII.2:55:14 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112Rule provides for consideration of H. Con. Res. 112 with 4 hours of general debate. Previous question shall be considered as ordered without intervening motions. Measure will be considered read. Bill is closed to amendments. The first reading of the concurrent resolution shall be dispensed with. All points of order against consideration of the concurrent resolution are waived. No amendment shall be in order except those printed in the report of the Committee on Rules accompanying this resolution. Each amendment may be offered only in the order printed in the report, may be offered only by a Member designated in the report, shall be considered as read, and shall be debatable for the time specified in the report equally divided and controlled by the proponent and an opponent. All points of order against such amendments are waived except that the adoption of an amendment in the nature of a substitute shall constitute the conclusion of consideration of the concurrent resolution for amendment. It shall be in order at any time on the   …2:55:09 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 112Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 597. H. Con. Res. 112 — “Establishing the budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2013 and setting forth appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2014 through 2022.”2:54:34 P.M. -On approving the Journal Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 300 – 111, 4 Present (Roll no. 142).2:47:37 P.M. -H.R. 1339The title of the measure was amended. Agreed to without objection.2:47:31 P.M. -H.R. 1339Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.2:47:30 P.M. -H.R. 1339On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 413 – 6, 4 Present (Roll no. 141).2:40:25 P.M. -H.R. 1339Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 1339 — “To amend title 32, United States Code, the body of laws of the United States dealing with the National Guard, to recognize the City of Salem, Massachusetts, as the Birthplace of the National Guard of the United States.”2:40:08 P.M. -UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on adoption of a motion to suspend the rules, and on agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal, both of which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.2:39:57 P.M. -H. Res. 597Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.2:39:56 P.M. -H. Res. 597On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 241 – 184 (Roll no. 140).2:24:38 P.M. -H. Res. 597On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 235 – 183 (Roll no. 139).12:56:00 P.M. -H. Res. 597DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 597.12:52:54 P.M. -H. Res. 597Considered as privileged matter. H. Res. 597 — “Providing for consideration of the concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 112) establishing the budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2013 and setting forth appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2014 through 2022, and providing for consideration of motions to suspend the rules.”12:52:16 P.M. -The House received a communication from Karen L. Haas, Clerk of the House. Pursuant to Rule VIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives, Ms. Haas notified the House that she had been served with a subpoena for documents issued by the Superior Court for the State of California, North Valley District in connection with a civil case and that after consultation with the Office of General Counsel, she had determined that because the subpoena was not “material and relevant”, compliance with the subpoena was inconsistent with the privileges and precedents of the House.12:51:42 P.M. -H.R. 1339At 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.12:42:16 P.M. -H.R. 1339DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 1339.12:42:14 P.M. -H.R. 1339Considered under suspension of the rules.12:42:00 P.M. -H.R. 1339Mr. Platts moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 1339 — “To amend title 32, United States Code, the body of laws of the United States dealing with the National Guard, to recognize the City of Salem, Massachusetts, as the Birthplace of the National Guard of the United States.”12:41:40 P.M. -Mr. Platts asked unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 9:00 a.m. on March 29. Agreed to without objection.12:40:44 P.M. -The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until later in the legislative day.12:05:12 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.12:03:16 P.M. -The Chair recognized Mr. Aderholt for one minute for the purpose of introducing the guest Chaplain.12:03:04 P.M. -PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Reyes to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.12:02:49 P.M. -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. Cohen 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. Cohen objected to the voice vote based upon the absence of a quorum and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of the Speaker’s approval of the Journal until later in the legislative day. The point of no quorum was considered as withdrawn.12:00:43 P.M. -Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Dennis Culbreth, First Baptist Church, Jasper, Alabama.12:00:34 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 28.10:41:25 A.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 P.M. today.10:21:24 A.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded resumed with Morning-Hour Debate.10:21:23 A.M. -The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate agreed to return the papers on H.R. 5.10:00:52 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.10:00:29 A.M. -The Speaker designated the Honorable Gregg Harper to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.10:00:12 A.M. -The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

Black History

Congress: the Republican led House the Senate considers HR3606,Capitol Formation/IPO bill and Judicial nominees


the Senate Convened at 9:30amET March 15, 2012

  • Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in morning business until 11:00am with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each, with the time equally divided and controlled between the two Leaders or their designees with the Majority controlling the first half hour and the Republicans controlling the second half hour.
  • Following morning business, the Senate will proceed to the consideration of H.R.3606, the Capital Formation bill.
  • At 1:45pm, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to consider the following nominations with 15 minutes of debate equally divided and controlled between Senators Leahy and Grassley or their designees:

At 1:45pm today, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to consider the following nominations with 15 minutes of debate equally divided and controlled between Senators Leahy and Grassley or their designees:

– Cal. #408, Gina Marie Groh, of West Virginia, to be US District Judge for the Northern District of West Virginia

– Cal. #461, Michael Walter Fitzgerald, of California, to be United States District Judge for the Central District of California

Upon the use or yielding back of time (approximately 2:00pm), there will be 2 roll call votes on confirmation of the nominations in the order listed above.

The following amendments are pending to H.R.3606, the Capital Formation/IPO bill:

  • Reed-Landrieu-Levin-Brown(OH) amendment #1833 (substitute)
  • Reid amendment #1834 (date change)
  • Reid amendment #1835 (date change) to amendment #1834
  • Cantwell-Johnson-Graham-Shelby, et al, amendment #1836 (Ex-Im Bank)
  • Motion to commit H.R.3606 with instructions (date change)
  • Reid amendment #1839 to the instructions (date change)
  • Reid amendment #1840 to amendment #1839 (date change)

2:02 pm The Senate began a roll call vote on confirmation of the nomination of Gina Marie Groh, of WV, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of West Virginia; Confirmed: 95-2

2:23pm The Senate began a roll call vote on confirmation of the nomination of Michael Walter Fitzgerald, of CA, to be US District Judge for the Central District of California; Confirmed: 91-6

There will be no further roll call votes this week.

Senators should expect the next roll call vote on Tuesday, March 20th prior to the weekly caucus meetings.

TODAY’S ROLL CALL VOTES

1) Confirmation of the nomination of Gina Marie Groh, of WV, to be United States District Judge for the Northern District of West Virginia; Confirmed: 95-2

2) Confirmation of the nomination of Michael Walter Fitzgerald, of CA, to be US District Judge for the Central District of California; Confirmed: 91-6

LEGISLATIVE ITEMS

Discharged the Agriculture Committee and passed H.R.473, the Help to Access Land for the Education (HALE) of Scouts Act.

Discharged the Banking Committee and passed H.R.886, the United States Marshals Service 225th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act with a Boozman-Pryor amendment.

Adopted S.Res.398, Recognizing the 191st anniversary of the independence of Greece and celebrating Greek and American Democracy.

Completed the Rule 14 process of S.2191, to amend the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 to prohibit the Attorney General from administering or enforcing certain accessibility reglations relation to pools at public accommodations or provided by public entities (DeMint).

The filing deadline for all first degree amendments to the Reed-Landrieu-Levin-Brown (OH), et al, substitute amendment #1833 and H.R.3630 is 4:00pm on Monday, March 19th.

If your Senator has a germane first degree amendment and would like to preserve his or her right to offer, please send a signed copy of the amendment to the cloakroom prior to the deadline. If you have already filed, there is no need to re-file.

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 The next in the House  meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on March 16, 2012.

Black History

Congress: the Republican led House worked for 2minutes – the Senate in pro forma Sessions


The Senate will meet on the following date and times for pro forma sessions only with no business conducted:

Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at 12:00pm and

Friday, February 24, 2012 at 11:00am.

SCHEDULE FOR MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2012

The Senate will convene at 2:00pm on Monday, February 27, 2012.  Following any Leader remarks, Senator Shaheen will be recognized to deliver Washington’s Farewell Address.  Upon conclusion of the reading, the Senate will be in a period of morning business until 4:30pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

Following morning business, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to consider Calendar #409, the nomination of Margo Kitsy Brodie, of New York, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of New York with up to one hour of debate equally divided and controlled between the Senators Leahy and Grassley or their designees.

Upon the use or yielding back of time (at approximately 5:30pm), the Senate will conduct a roll call vote on confirmation of the Brodie nomination

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF FEBRUARY 21, 2012

 112TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION

-The Speaker announced that the House do now adjourn pursuant to a previous special order. The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on February 24, 2012.12:02:31 P.M. -PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair led the House in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.12:02:23 P.M. -The Speaker announced approval of the Journal.  Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.12:01:55 P.M. -Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Alisa Lasater Wailoo, Capitol Hill United Methodist Church, Washington, DC.12:01:04 P.M. -The Speaker designated the Honorable Andy Harris to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.12:00:08 P.M. -The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

Black History

Congress: the Republican led House – the Senate


The Senate will meet on the following date and times for pro forma sessions only with no business conducted:

Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at 12:00pm and

Friday, February 24, 2012 at 11:00am.

The Senate will convene at 2:00pm on Monday, February 27, 2012. 

Following any Leader remarks, Senator Shaheen will be recognized to deliver Washington’s Farewell Address.  Upon conclusion of the reading, the Senate will be in a period of morning business until 4:30pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

Following morning business, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to consider Calendar #409, the nomination of Margo Kitsy Brodie, of New York, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of New York with up to one hour of debate equally divided and controlled between the Senators Leahy and Grassley or their designees.

Upon the use or yielding back of time (at approximately 5:30pm), the Senate will conduct a roll call vote on confirmation of the Brodie nomination.

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The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. on February 21, 2012.