Tag Archives: Executive session

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Congress: the Republican led House pro-forma the Senate


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

– Friday, August 5th at 10:00am,

– Tuesday, August 9th at 11:00am,

– Friday, August 12th at 12:00pm,

– Tuesday, August 16th at 11:00am,

– Friday, August 19th at 10:00am,

– Tuesday, August 23rd at 2:30pm,

– Friday, August 26th at 11:15am,

– Tuesday, August 30th at 10:00am,

– Friday, September 2nd at 10:00am;

When the Senate convenes at 10:00am on Friday, September 2nd, it will adjourn until 2:00pm on September 6, 2011. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in morning business until 5:00pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

Following morning business, the Senate will be in Executive Session to consider Calendar #109, Bernice Bouie Donald, of Tennessee, to be United States Circuit Judge for the 6th Circuit with 30 minutes of debate equally divided and controlled between Senators Leahy and Grassley.

The next roll call votes will be at 5:30pm on Tuesday, September 6th. The first roll call vote will be on confirmation of the Donald nomination. The 2nd will be a cloture vote on the motion to proceed to H.R.1249, the Patent Reform bill.

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

10:01 A.M. – The Speaker designated the Honorable Andy Harris to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

10:00 A.M. – The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

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Congress: debates & votes on raising the debt ceiling -through the weekend?


The Senate Convenes: 1:00pmET July 30, 2011

  • Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the motion to concur in the House message to accompany S.627, the legislative vehicle for the debt limit increase.
  • The time from 1:30pm until 7:30pm will be equally divided and controlled between the two Leaders or their designees with the Majority and the Republicans controlling alternating 30-minute blocks of time with the Majority controlling the first block. Additionally, the time from 7:30pm until 8:00pm will be equally divided and controlled with the Republicans controlling the first 15 minutes and the Majority controlling the final 15 minutes.
  • As a reminder to all Senators, Senator Reid filed cloture on the motion to concur in the House message to accompany S.627 with the Reid amendment #589.
  • The Senate is now expecting a live quorum and a motion to instruct the Sergeant at Arms to request the attendance of absent Senators around 5:30pm.
  • 5:339pm The Senate began a roll call vote on the motion to instruct the Sergeant At Arms to request the presence of absent Senators; Agreed to: 75-20

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF JULY 30, 2011
112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

3:16 P.M. – The House adjourned pursuant to a previous special order. The next meeting is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. on July 31, 2011.On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.

Mr. Woodall moved that the House do now adjourn.

H.R. 2062:
to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 45 Meetinghouse Lane in Sagamore Beach, Massachusetts, as the “Matthew A. Pucino Post Office” 

3:14 P.M. – On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 2693:
to cut spending, maintain existing commitments, and for other purposes 

3:12 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 Failed by recorded vote (2/3 required): 173 – 246(Roll no. 682).

1:43 P.M. – DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate onH.R. 2693.

1:42 P.M. – Considered under suspension of the rules.

1:41 P.M. – Mr. Dreier moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

1:39 P.M. – On approving the Journal Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 298 – 113, 2 Present(Roll no. 681).

H.R. 1843:
to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 489 Army Drive in Barrigada, Guam, as the “John Pangelinan Gerber Post Office Building” 

1:32 P.M. – Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 414 – 3(Roll no. 680).

1:26 P.M. – Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 1975:
to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 281 East Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena, California, as the “First Lieutenant Oliver Goodall Post Office Building” 

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 416 – 0(Roll no. 679).

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

1:00 P.M. – Considered as unfinished business.UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question of adoption of motions to suspend the rules which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 30.

12:33 P.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.

12:04 P.M. – ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches which by direction of the Chair, would be limited to 15 per side of the aisle.

12:02 P.M. – PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Paulsen to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – The Chair announced that he had examined the Journal of the last day’s proceedings and had approved it. Mr. Connolly 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. Connolly demanded the yeas and nays and the Chair announced that further proceedings on the question of agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal would be postponed until later in the legislative day.

12:00 P.M. – Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.The Speaker designated the Honorable Ted Poe to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

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Congress: debates & votes on the Debt Ceiling


the Senate Convened at 9:30amET July 29, 2011

  • Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will recess until 11:00am.
  • At 11:00am, the Senate will be in morning business until 12:00pm 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.
  • At 12:00pm, the Majority Leader will be recognized.
  • Democratic Senators are reminded there is a caucus at 10:00am on Friday.

Morning business has been extended until 6:00pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF JULY 29, 2011
112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

 6:52 P.M. – SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.

6:47 P.M. – ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.

H.R. 789:
to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 20 Main Street in Little Ferry, New Jersey, as the “Sergeant Matthew J. Fenton Post Office” 

6:39 P.M. – Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.

Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 2213:
to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 801 West Eastport Street in Iuka, Mississippi, as the “Sergeant Jason W. Vaughn Post Office” 

6:38 P.M. – Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by recorded vote (2/3 required): 420 – 0(Roll no. 678).

6:25 P.M. – Considered as unfinished business.UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was on motions to suspend the rules which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.

S. 627:
to establish the Commission on Freedom of Information Act Processing Delays 

6:24 P.M. – Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.On passage Passed by recorded vote: 218 – 210(Roll no. 677).

6:08 P.M. – On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by recorded vote: 183 – 244(Roll no. 676).

5:52 P.M. – The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.

5:44 P.M. – DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Hochul motion to recommit with instructions, pending reservation of a point of order. The instructions contained in the motion seek to require the bill to be reported back to the House with an amendment to require the joint committee on deficit reduction to consider the elimination of oil and gas subsidies for the major integrated oil companies and the elimination of subsidies for corporate jets before cutting essential education programs. Subsequently, the point of order was withdrawn.Ms. Hochul moved to recommit with instructions to Rules.

5:43 P.M. – The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.

5:35 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to clause 1(c) of rule 19, further proceedings resumed onS. 627.Considered as unfinished business.

H. Res. 383:
providing for further consideration of the bill (S. 627) to establish the Commission on Freedom of Information Act Processing Delays 

5:34 P.M. – Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 239 – 187(Roll no. 675).

5:11 P.M. – The previous question was ordered without objection.

4:00 P.M. – DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate onH. Res. 383.Considered as privileged matter.

H.R. 2244:
to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 67 Castle Street in Geneva, New York, as the “Corporal Steven Blaine Riccione Post Office” 

3:52 P.M. – On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 418 – 1, 1 Present(Roll no. 674).Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

3:46 P.M. – Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 440:
to provide for the establishment of the Special Envoy to Promote Religious Freedom of Religious Minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia 

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

3:45 P.M. – On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 402 – 20(Roll no. 673).

3:40 P.M. – Considered as unfinished business.UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was on motions to suspend the rules which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.

H. Res. 382:
waiving a requirement of clause 6(a) of rule XIII with respect to consideration of certain resolutions reported from the Committee on Rules 

3:39 P.M. – Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 236 – 186(Roll no. 672).

3:32 P.M. – On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 237 – 185(Roll no. 671).

2:02 P.M. – DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate onH. Res. 382.Considered as privileged matter.

2:01 P.M. – Mr. Sessions filed a report from the Committee on Rules onH. Res. 383.

2:00 P.M. – The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 29.

9:15 A.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.

9:03 A.M. – ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches, which by direction of the Chair would be limited to five per side of the aisle.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Cicilline to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

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

9:01 A.M. – Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.The Speaker designated the Honorable Randy Neugebauer to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

9:00 A.M. – The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

Black History

Congress: the Republican led House -the Senate


the Senate Convenes at 10:00amET July 26, 2011

  • Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in a period of morning business until 12:15pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each with the Majority controlling the first 30 minutes and the Republicans controlling the second 30 minutes.
  • Following morning business, the Senate will proceed to Executive Sessionto consider the following nominations en bloc:
  • With 2 minutes of debate equally divided and controlled in the usual form.
  • Therefore at approximately 12:17pm on Tuesday, the Senate will conduct a roll call vote on confirmation of Calendar #83. Calendar #84 is expected to be confirmed by voice vote.
  • The Senate will recess from 12:30pm until 2:15pm to allow for the weekly caucus meetings.
  • At 2:15pm, the Senate will resume consideration of S.1323, the legislative vehicle for the debt limit increase.

At approximately 12:15pm, the Senate will be in Executive Session to consider the nominations of Paul Engelmayer to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of New York and Ramona Manglona to be Judge for the District Court for the Northern Mariana Islands with 2 minutes of debate.

VOTES

At approximately 12:17pm, the Senate will conduct a roll call vote on confirmation of the Engelmayer nomination. The Manglona nomination is expected to be confirmed by voice vote.

12:17pm The Senate began a roll call vote on confirmation of Paul Engelmayer to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of New York; Confirmed: 98-0

Passed S.846 a bill to designate the United States courthouse located at 80 Lafayette Street in Jefferson City, Missouri, as the Christopher S. Bond United States Courthouse.

Discharged EPW and passed S.1406, a bill to designate the United States courthouse under construction at 510 19th Street, Bakersfield, California, as the Myron Donovan Crocker United States Courthouse.

Discharged the Banking Committee of H.R.1309, Flood Insurance and returned it to the House pursuant to their message on July 25, 2011 requesting its return.

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF JULY 26, 2011
112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

H.R. 2584:
making appropriations for the Department of the Interior, environment, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2012, and for other purposes 

8:38 P.M. – DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole continued with debate on the Dicks amendment under the five-minute rule.The House resolved into Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for further consideration.

Considered as unfinished business.

8:37 P.M. – Mr. Scott (SC) filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 372.

H.R. 2584:
making appropriations for the Department of the Interior, environment, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2012, and for other purposes 

8:35 P.M. – Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union rises leaving H.R. 2584as unfinished business.On motion that the Committee rise Agreed to by voice vote.

Mr. Simpson moved that the Committee rise.

8:15 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Dicks amendment under the five-minute rule.Amendment offered by Mr. Dicks.

An amendment to strike the proviso relating to funding limitations in the Endangered Species Act.

On agreeing to the Tipton amendment Agreed to by voice vote.

8:13 P.M. – Amendment offered by Mr. Tipton.

An amendment to increase funding for land acquisition by $2.5 million and to increase funding for acquisition of lands for national forests special acts by $2.5 million offset by a reduction in funds of $5 million from environmental programs and management accounts.

8:12 P.M. – On agreeing to the Lamborn amendment Failed by voice vote.

7:54 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Lamborn amendment under the five-minute rule.Amendment offered by Mr. Lamborn.

An amendment to zero out land acquisition accounts of BLM, FWS, NPS, and FS.

7:53 P.M. – On agreeing to the Bass (NH) amendment Agreed to by voice vote.

7:41 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Bass (NH) amendment under the five-minute rule.Amendment offered by Mr. Bass (NH).

An amendment to increase land acquisition accounts of BLM by $1 million, FWS by $4 million , NPS by $4 million, and FS by $4 million, offset by the Office of the Secretary.

7:27 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Clarke (MI) amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Clarke (MI) demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

7:16 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Clarke (MI) amendment under the five-minute rule.Amendment offered by Mr. Clarke (MI).

An amendment to increase EPA/EPM by $10,000,000, offset by BLM/MLR (Asian carp).

7:15 P.M. – The House resolved into Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for further consideration.Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 2056:
to instruct the Inspector General of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation to study the impact of insured depository institution failures, and for other purposes 

7:14 P.M. – At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Westmoreland objected to the vote on the grounds that a quorum was not present. Further proceedings on the motion were postponed. The point of no quorum was withdrawn.

6:57 P.M. – DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2056.Mr. Westmoreland moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

H.R. 2608:
to provide for an additional temporary extension of programs under the Small Business Act and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958, and for other purposes 

6:56 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 voice vote.

6:46 P.M. – DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2608.Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

6:45 P.M. – The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until a time to be announced.

H.R. 1938:
to direct the President to expedite the consideration and approval of the construction and operation of the Keystone XL oil pipeline, and for other purposes 

6:44 P.M. – Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.On passage Passed by recorded vote: 279 – 147, 1 Present (Roll no. 650).

6:37 P.M. – On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by recorded vote: 181 – 248 (Roll no. 649).

6:22 P.M. – The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.

6:11 P.M. – DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Sutton 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 require that the President take all necessary actions to ensure that the Keystone pipeline does not result in unfair increases in gas price and that eminent domain is not used to seize farmland to build the pipeline.

6:09 P.M. – Ms. Sutton moved to recommit with instructions to Energy and Commerce.

Ms. Sutton moved to recommit the bill H.R. 1938 to the Committee on Energy and Commerce with instructions to report the same back to the House forthwith, with the following amendments: � Page 6, after line 24, insert the following new paragraphs: ***

6:08 P.M. – 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.

6:07 P.M. – The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 1938.

6:06 P.M. – On agreeing to the Kucinich amendment Failed by recorded vote: 164 – 261 (Roll no. 648).

6:03 P.M. – On agreeing to the Johnson (GA) amendment Failed by recorded vote: 163 – 263 (Roll no. 647).

5:57 P.M. – On agreeing to the Hanabusa amendment Failed by recorded vote: 168 – 260 (Roll no. 646).

5:53 P.M. – On agreeing to the Rush amendment Failed by recorded vote: 161 – 265 (Roll no. 645).

5:49 P.M. – On agreeing to the Murphy (CT) amendment Failed by recorded vote: 152 – 275 (Roll no. 644).

5:45 P.M. – On agreeing to the Cohen amendment Failed by recorded vote: 155 – 272 (Roll no. 643).

5:41 P.M. – On agreeing to the Eshoo amendment Failed by recorded vote: 163 – 264 (Roll no. 642).

5:37 P.M. – On agreeing to the Rush amendment Failed by recorded vote: 164 – 261, 1 Present (Roll no. 641).

5:31 P.M. – MOMENT OF SILENCE – The House observed a moment of silence for the men and women serving in the Armed Forces in Iraq and Afghanistan.

H.R. 1938:
to direct the President to expedite the consideration and approval of the construction and operation of the Keystone XL oil pipeline, and for other purposes 

5:30 P.M. – On agreeing to the Welch amendment Failed by recorded vote: 164 – 260 (Roll no. 640).

5:04 P.M. – UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on adoption of amendments which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.

5:03 P.M. – POSPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Kucinich amendment No. 11, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Kucinich demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

4:53 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 370, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Kucinich amendment No. 11.Amendment offered by Mr. Kucinich.

An amendment numbered 11 printed in House Report 112-181 to require an analysis of the effect of the proposed pipeline on manipulation of oil markets and increased gas prices for American consumers.

4:52 P.M. – On agreeing to the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment Agreed to by voice vote.

4:46 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 370, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment No. 10.Amendment offered by Ms. Jackson Lee (TX).

An amendment numbered 10 printed in House Report 112-181 to add a sense of Congress that the United States must decrease its dependence on oil from countries that are hostile to the interests of the United States of America and that Canada has long been a strong trading partner and increasing access to their energy resources will create jobs in the United States.

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Johnson (Ga) amendment No. 9, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Johnson (GA) demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

4:37 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 370, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Johnson (GA) amendment No. 9.

4:36 P.M. – Amendment offered by Mr. Johnson (GA).

An amendment numbered 9 printed in House Report 112-181 to require a study on the health impacts of increased air pollution in communities surrounding the refineries that will transport diluted bitumen through the proposed Keystone XL pipeline.

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Hanabusa amendment No. 8, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Terry demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

4:29 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 370, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Hanabusa amendment No. 8.Amendment offered by Ms. Hanabusa.

An amendment numbered 8 printed in House Report 112-181 to require that a Presidential Permit approving the construction and operation of the Keystone XL pipeline will not be issued unless the Secretary of Energy in consultation with the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), certify that the applicant has calculated a worst-case oil spill scenario for the proposed pipeline; and has demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Secretary and the PHMSA that the applicant possesses the capability and technology to respond immediately and effectively to such a worst-case scenario.

4:28 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Rush amendment No. 7, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Rush demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

4:17 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 370, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Rush amendment No. 7.Amendment offered by Mr. Rush.

An amendment numbered 7 printed in House Report 112-181 to extend the deadline for permit decision to 120 days after final environmental impact statement or until January 1, 2012.

4:16 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Murphy (CT) amendment No. 6, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Terry demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

4:06 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 370, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Murphy (CT) amendment No. 6.

4:05 P.M. – Amendment offered by Mr. Murphy (CT).

An amendment numbered 6 printed in House Report 112-181 to add findings language noting that construction of the pipeline would permit a new source of oil exports to China and other nations.

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Cohen amendment No. 5, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Cohen demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

3:58 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 370, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Cohen amendment.Amendment offered by Mr. Cohen.

An amendment numbered 5 printed in House Report 112-181 to strike finding 16 and replaces it with language that outlines TransCanada’s recent pipeline safety issues with the Keystone pipeline.

3:57 P.M. – On agreeing to the Christensen amendment Failed by voice vote.

3:47 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 370, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Christensen amendment.Amendment offered by Mrs. Christensen.

An amendment numbered 4 printed in House Report 112-181 to include a finding stating that the Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement estimates that the Keystone XL pipeline would increase carbon pollution associated with United States fuel use by up to 23,000,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide.

3:46 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Eshoo amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Ms. Eshoo demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

3:39 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 370, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Eshoo amendment.Amendment offered by Ms. Eshoo.

An amendment numbered 3 printed in House Report 112-181 to include a finding stating the PHMSA Administrator testified at a Congressional hearing and stated that the PHMSA had not done a study analyzing the risks associated with transporting diluted bitumen. Amendment would also require PHMSA to complete a review of the risks associated with transporting diluted bitumen, and whether current pipeline regulations are sufficient.

3:38 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Rush amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Rush demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

3:28 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 370, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Rush amendment.Amendment offered by Mr. Rush.

An amendment numbered 2 printed in House Report 112-181 to strike paragraph 15 of the findings section.

3:27 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Welch amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Terry demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

3:18 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 370, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Welch amendment.Amendment offered by Mr. Welch.

An amendment numbered 1 printed in House Report 112-181 to add language to the findings section that states that the Keystone XL pipeline would run through the Ogallala Aquifer and explains the risk involved with this route.

2:03 P.M. – GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 1938.

2:02 P.M. – The Speaker designated the Honorable Jo Ann Emerson to act as Chairwoman of the Committee.House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 370and Rule XVIII.

2:01 P.M. – Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 1938with 1 hour of general debate. Motion to recommit with or without installowed. Measure will be considered read. Specified amendments are in order. The resolution waives all points of order against consideration of the bill. All points of order against the amendments printed in this report are waived. The waiver of all points of order is prophylactic.Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 370.

1:55 P.M. – The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 26.

1:50 P.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.

1:49 P.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now recess pursuant to H.Res. 299. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.On approving the Journal Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 313 – 111, 2 Present (Roll no. 639).

H.R. 1383:
to temporarily preserve higher rates for tuition and fees for programs of education at non-public institutions of higher learning pursued by individuals enrolled in the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs before the enactment of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act of 2010, and for other purposes 

1:43 P.M. – Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.On motion that the House suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendments Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 424 – 0 (Roll no. 638).

H. Res. 370:
providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 1938) to direct the President to expedite the consideration and approval of the construction and operation of the Keystone XL oil pipeline, and for other purposes 

1:35 P.M. – Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 246 – 171 (Roll no. 637).

1:11 P.M. – Considered as unfinished business.UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on adoption of H.Res. 370, a motion to suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendments to H.R. 1383and approval of the Speaker’s journal all of which were debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 26.

1:02 P.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.

H. Res. 370:
providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 1938) to direct the President to expedite the consideration and approval of the construction and operation of the Keystone XL oil pipeline, and for other purposes 

1:01 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on H.Res. 370, the Chair put the question on agreeing to the resolution and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Hastings(FL) demanded the yeas and nays and the Chair postponed further proceedings on agreeing to the resolution until a time to be announced.The previous question was ordered without objection.

12:33 P.M. – DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 370.

12:31 P.M. – Considered as privileged matter.

12:04 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 P.M. – PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Pitts to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – The Chair announced that he had examined the Journal of the last day’s proceedings and had approved it. Mr. Brooks 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. Brooks demanded the yeas and nays and the Chair announced that further proceedings on the question of agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal would be postponed until later in the legislative day.

12:00 P.M. – Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Miroslaus Stelmaszczyk, Holy Family Church, Creighton, PennsylvaniaThe House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 26.

11:07 A.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 P.M. today.

10:01 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 A.M. – The Speaker designated the Honorable Dennis A. Ross to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

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Congress: the Republican led House -the Senate


The Senate Convenes at 2:00pmET July 25, 2011

  •  Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in morning business until 4:30pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.
  • At 3:40pm, the Senate will observe a moment of silence in memory of Officer Jacob J. Chesnut and Detective John M. Gibson of the United States Capitol Police who were killed 13 years ago defending this Capitol against an armed intruder.
  • Following morning business, the Senate will proceed to Executive Sessionto consider the following nominations, en bloc:
  • With one hour for debate equally divided in the usual form.
  • Upon the use or yielding back of time (at approximately 5:30pm), the Senate will conduct a roll call vote on confirmation of Calendar #83. Calendar #84 is expected to be confirmed by voice vote

At 4:30pm today, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to consider the following nominations en bloc:

– Calendar #83 Paul A. Engelmayer, of New York, to be US District Judge for the Southern District of New York and

– Calendar #84 Ramona Villagomez Manglona, of the Northern Mariana Islands, to be District Judge for the Northern Mariana Islands for a term of ten years.

With one hour for debate equally divided in the usual form.

Upon the use or yielding back of time (at approximately 5:30pm), the Senate will conduct a roll call vote on confirmation of Calendar #83. Calendar #84 is expected to be confirmed by voice vote.

Senator Reid also announced additional roll call votes are possible during today’s session

By unanimous consent, the previous order with respect to the roll call vote scheduled for 5:30pm today has been vitiated and re-scheduled until 12:15pm on Tuesday.

At 12:15pm on Tuesday, July 26th, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to consider the following nominations en bloc:

– Calendar #83 Paul A. Engelmayer, of New York, to be US District Judge for the Southern District of New York and

– Calendar #84 Ramona Villagomez Manglona, of the Northern Mariana Islands, to be District Judge for the Northern Mariana Islands for a term of ten years.

With 2 minutes of debate equally divided and controlled in the usual form.

Therefore at approximately 12:17pm on Tuesday, the Senate will conduct a roll call vote on confirmation of Calendar #83. Calendar #84 is expected to be confirmed by voice vote.

  • ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF JULY 25, 2011
112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION
 

7:28 P.M. – ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.

H.R. 1383:
to temporarily preserve higher rates for tuition and fees for programs of education at non-public institutions of higher learning pursued by individuals enrolled in the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs before the enactment of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Improvements Act of 2010, and for other purposes 

7:25 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.

7:17 P.M. – DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on the motion to supend the rules and agree to the Senate amendment to H.R. 1383.Mr. Miller (FL) moved that the House suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendment.

S. 1103:
to extend the term of the incumbent Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation 

7:16 P.M. – Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.

7:06 P.M. – DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 1103.Considered under suspension of the rules.

7:05 P.M. – Mr. Smith (TX) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

7:04 P.M. – The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until a time to be announced.

7:03 P.M. – Mr. Webster filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 370.

H.R. 2584:
making appropriations for the Department of the Interior, environment, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2012, and for other purposes 

7:02 P.M. – Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union rises leaving H.R. 2584as unfinished business.On motion to rise Agreed to by voice vote.

Mr. Simpson moved to rise.

On agreeing to the Hochul amendment Failed by recorded vote: 141 – 271 (Roll no. 636).

6:55 P.M. – On agreeing to the Richmond amendment Agreed to by recorded vote: 221 – 192 (Roll no. 635).

6:49 P.M. – On agreeing to the Cleaver amendment Failed by recorded vote: 165 – 248 (Roll no. 634).

6:43 P.M. – On agreeing to the Huelskamp amendment Failed by recorded vote: 126 – 284 (Roll no. 633).

6:36 P.M. – On agreeing to the Moran amendment Failed by recorded vote: 175 – 237 (Roll no. 632).

6:10 P.M. – UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on adoption of amendments which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.

6:09 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Hochul amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Ms. Hochul demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

6:05 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Hochul amendment under the five-minute rule.Amendment offered by Ms. Hochul.

An amendment to reduce the amount in the Bureau of Land Management account available for the processing of applications for drilling permits by $4,452,000.

6:04 P.M. – On agreeing to the Richmond amendment Failed by voice vote.

5:59 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Richmond amendment under the five-minute rule.Amendment offered by Mr. Richmond.

An amendment to reduce the Management of Lands and Resources account by $10,617,000 and increase the North American Wetlands Conservation Fund account by the same amount.

5:58 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Richmond amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Richmond demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

5:53 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Richmond amendment under the five-minute rule.Amendment offered by Mr. Richmond.

An amendment to reduce the Management of Lands and Resources account by $6,000,000 and increase the Regulation and Enforcement, Ocean Energy Managment account by $5,000,000.

3:46 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Cleaver amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Moran demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

3:39 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Cleaver amendment under the five-minute rule.

3:38 P.M. – MOMENT OF SILENCE – The House in the Committee of the Whole observed a moment of silence in memory of Officer Jacob J. Chestnut and Detective John M. Gibson of the United States Capitol Police.

3:37 P.M. – Amendment offered by Mr. Cleaver.

An amendment to reduce the Management of Lands and Resources account by $3,000,000 and increase the Environmental Programs and Management account by $3,000,000.

3:36 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Huelskamp amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Huelskamp demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

3:19 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Huelskamp amendment under the five-minute rule.

3:18 P.M. – Amendment offered by Mr. Huelskamp.

An amendment to reduce the various accounts by $3,000,231,000 and applies the savings to the spending reduction account.

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Moran amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Simpson demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

3:08 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Moran amendment under the five-minute rule.

3:06 P.M. – Amendment offered by Mr. Moran.

An amendment to reduce the funds in the Management of Lands and Resources account by $18,663,000 and increase the Indian Health Facilities account by $18,663,000.

2:58 P.M. – On agreeing to the Simpson amendment Agreed to by voice vote.Amendments en bloc offered by Mr. Simpson.

An amendment to make technical and conforming changes to the bill.

2:12 P.M. – Subsequently, the Committee resumed it’s sitting.

2:11 P.M. – The Committee of the Whole rose informally to receive a message from the President.

1:48 P.M. – GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 2584.The Speaker designated the Honorable John Campbell to act as Chairman of the Committee.

House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 363and Rule XVIII.

1:47 P.M. – Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 2584with 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 open to amendments. All points of order against consideration of the bill are waived. The Chair of the Committee of the Whole may accord priority in recognition on the basis of whether the Member offering an amendment has caused it to be printed in the portion of the Congressional Record designated for that purpose in clause 8 of rule XVIII.Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 363.

1:46 P.M. – On approving the Journal Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 233 – 108, 2 Present (Roll no. 631).

H.R. 1309:
to extend the authorization of the national flood insurance program, to achieve reforms to improve the financial integrity and stability of the program, and to increase the role of private markets in the management of flood insurance risk, and for other purposes 

1:36 P.M. – House requested return of papers pursuant to H.Res. 368

H. Res. 363:
providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 2584) making appropriations for the Department of the Interior, environment, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2012, and for other purposes 

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

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 205 – 131 (Roll no. 630).

1:05 P.M. – Considered as unfinished business.

1:04 P.M. – UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on adoption of H. Res. 363and on agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal, both of which further proceedings had been postponed.

H. Res. 368:
requesting return of official papers on H.R. 1309 

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

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

Considered as privileged matter.

H. Res. 363:
providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 2584) making appropriations for the Department of the Interior, environment, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2012, and for other purposes 

1:03 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on H. Res. 363, the Chair put the question on adoption of the resolution and by voice vote announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Bishop (UT) demanded the yeas and nays, and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption until later in the legislative day.

1:02 P.M. – The previous question was ordered without objection.

12:18 P.M. – DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 363.Considered as privileged matter.

12:16 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 July 22, 2011 at 3:28 p.m.: That the Senate passed S. Res. 234 and S. 300.

12:03 P.M. – ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Clay to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

12:02 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – The Speaker announced that he had examined the Journal of the last day’s proceedings and had approved it. Mr. Poe (TX) demanded that the question be put on agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal and by voice vote, the Speaker announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Poe (TX) demanded the yeas and nays and the Speaker announced that further proceedings on the question of agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal would be postponed until later in the legislative day.

12:01 P.M. – Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.

12:00 P.M. – The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 25.

10:07 A.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 P.M. today.

10:01 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.The Speaker designated the Honorable John Campbell to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

10:00 A.M. – The House convened, starting a new legislative day.