Tag Archives: Federal Aviation Administration

Congress: the Republican led House the Senate


the Senate Convenes at 9:30amET September 14, 2011

  • Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in a period of morning
    business for one hour with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10
    minutes each with the Republicans controlling the first half and the Majority
    controlling the final half.
  • Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of the
    motion to proceed to H.J.Res.66, a joint resolution regarding Burma Sanctions
    and the legislative vehicle for additional FEMA funds, post-cloture.
  • By unanimous consent, all time during adjournment, morning business, and
    recess will count post-cloture on the motion to proceed to H.J.Res.66.
  • We expect to begin consideration of H.J.Res.66.  We also hope to consider
    the FAA and Highway extensions which was received from the House.  Senators will
    be notified when votes are scheduled.

The motion to proceed to H.J.Res.66, a joint resolution regarding Burma Sanctions and the legislative vehicle for additional FEMA funds was agreed to by unanimous consent and the Senate is now considering H.J.Res.66.

Senator Reid then offered amendment #602 (text of the Burma language and the FEMA language) and filled the amendment tree. Senator Reid then filed cloture on amendment #602 and on H.J.Res.66.

Unless an agreement is reached, the cloture vote on amendment #602 would occur one hour after the Senate convenes on Friday, September 16th.

  •  Adopted S.Res.267, Recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month and celebrating the heritage and culture of Latinos in the United States and the immense contributions of Latinos to the United States.

Discharged Foreign Relations and confirmed the following:

Mary B. DeRosa, of DC, to be Alternate Representative of the United States of America to the Sixty-sixth Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations

Frank E. Loy, of DC, to be Alternate Representative of the United States of America to the Sixty-sixth Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations

Kendrick B. Meek, of FL, to be Alternate Representative of the United States of America to the Sixty-sixth Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF SEPTEMBER 14, 2011
112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

3:05  P.M. –  SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.

3:02  P.M. –  ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.

3:01  P.M. –  Mr. Scalise asked unanimous consent That, when the House adjourns on Wednesday, September 14, 2011, it adjourn to meet at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 15, 2011. Agreed to without objection.

H.J. Res. 77:
relating to the disapproval of the President’s exercise of authority to increase the debt limit, as submitted under section 3101A of title 31, United States Code, on August 2, 2011 

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

On passage Passed by recorded vote: 232 – 186, 2 Present(Roll no. 706).

2:36  P.M. –  The previous question was ordered pursuant to the statute.

1:01  P.M. –  DEBATE – Pursuant to section 3101A(c)(4) of title 31, United States Code, the joint resolution was considered as read, and the previous question was considered as ordered on the joint resolution without intervening motion except 2 hours of debate equally divided and controlled.

1:00  P.M. –  On motion to proceed to consideration of H.J.Res. 77 Agreed to by voice vote.

12:59 P.M. –  MOTION TO PROCEED – Pursuant to section 3 of H.Res. 392, Mr. Reed was recognized to offer a motion to proceed to the consideration of H.J.Res. 77. Subsequently the Chair announced that pursuant to section 3101A(c)(3) of title 31, United States Code, the motion was not debatable, and put the question.

12:58 P.M. –  Called up under the provisions of ruleH. Res. 392.

H.R. 2867:
to reauthorize the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998, and for other purposes 

12:57 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.

12:34 P.M. –  DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate onH.R. 2867.Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Smith (NJ) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

12:33 P.M. –  The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until tomorrow.

12:03 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 Ms. Tsongas 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.

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 September 14.

11:04 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 Jeff Denham to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

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

TGIF &some News


just another rant …

The latest events or filibusters by Republicans in both Chambers of Congress have made me wonder  if or when will the Democratic Party push back or beat back the ideology that is taking over up on the Hill. I do think a line in the sand may have been drawn when our big 3 programs came under fire and while you can see vids of Republican leaders say they got 98% of what they wanted in the debt deal, it’s obvious they change Republicans want was worth pushing possibly over the cliff. To those people who hated the deal, remember they will have to defend it, which will be interesting, especially if forced to this debt deal give full disclosure. I have to say the Debt deal and the FAA debacle proved to be a moment when we saw the Democratic Party unite against the ideology of Republicans who want to take down the entire system, as we know it. The assault on the middleclass by the Republican members of Congress is obviously very offensive and will continue until we the people get out the vote and put Democrats back in control. So, when Congress gets back from their five-week break let’s hold Republicans accountable and demand that Democrats not only stand up more but do it as a united Political Party because it makes you want to jump in and say just exactly what they are thinking but too cautious to say.

 It’s time for the Democratic members of Congress the President and We the People to get on the same page and take back our Democracy.

The temporary Band-Aid that Congress has put on the debt, deficit as well as the things filibustered, or sitting on some table in a back room somewhere in the Senate will rear its ugly head again.  Republicans are planning to bring back the Paul Ryan Budget. It is and ideological plan that should open the eyes of most if not all Republican constituents, well maybe… hey, I definitely an optimist. We all were scared about Sarah Palin becoming one person closer to being President of the US of A and thank goodness, saner minds prevailed.  In a time when millions are unemployed, more layoffs coming and Corporate America is still outsourcing and holding middle class jobs hostage. The Republican Party continues to cut slash and burn American Workers in Republican controlled states. The party of No, which used to be just a conservative pro-life scary group, is now so extreme that the slogan “taking their country back”, is no longer code but an overt statement from Republican Tea Party members. Obviously, it is about not wanting “his kind” in the White House or as other as Sarah Palin and cohorts have spewed on various occasions.  I don’t know about you but the BS about President Obama being too “other” from anyone outside of Congress is offensive but when those who took an oath to serve and protect the lives of all Americans not a select few or those who you signed that Grover Norquist pledge admit to putting ideology and pledges before the People.

 

We are all Freedom Fighters on some level every day

 

CSPAN …

U.S. Economy

117,000 Total Jobs Created in July: Unemployment Down to 9.1%

154,000 private sector jobs created

   ************

Congress Agrees to Short-Term FAA Authorization

    ************

Defense Department Faces Budget Cuts

Panetta worried about debt ceiling agreement

      ************

Bachmann bashes Whoopi back in new fundraising letter

Bachmann Stands By Marriage Pledge That Links Slavery to Black
Romney, Bachmann, Santorum Vow to Defend Marriage

 

Reich ’68 critiques US debt deal

Senate Passes FAA Funding Measure to End Impasse, Furloughs

NATO airstrike kills Gadhafi’s son: rebels

Factors behind the market sell-off

what is going on in Congress … the Republican led House -the Senate


The Senate Convened at 9:30amET March 31, 2011

Following any leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to a period of morning business with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each with the first hour equally divided and controlled between the two leaders or their designees with the Majority controlling the first 30 minutes and the Republicans controlling the next 30 minutes.

Senators will be notified when votes are scheduled.

 Unanimous Consent:

Adopted the following resolutions:

S.Res.120, 1 year anniversary 4/2/10 fire and explosion – Tesoro refinery in Anacorte, WA;

S.Res.121, designating April 2011 as “Financial Literacy Month”;

S.Res.122, honoring the life and legacy of Elizabeth Taylor; and

S.Res.123, commending ACHIEVA on its 60th anniversary.

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF MARCH 31, 2011

112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

8:56 P.M. –

The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on April 1, 2012.

On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.

Mr. Mica moved that the House do now adjourn.

8:55 P.M. –

APPOINTMENT OF OFFICIAL OBJECTORS – On behalf of the Majority and Minority Leaderships, the Chair announced that the official objectors for the Private Calendar for the 112th Congress were as follows: For the Majority: Messrs. Smith (TX), Sensenbrenner (WI), and Poe (TX). For the Minority: Messrs. Serrano (NY), Nadler (NY), and Edwards (MD).

H.R. 658:

to amend title 49, United States Code, to authorize appropriations for the Federal Aviation Administration for fiscal years 2011 through 2014, to streamline programs, create efficiencies, reduce waste, and improve aviation safety and capacity, to provide stable funding for the national aviation system, and for other purposes

8:53 P.M. –

Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union rises leaving H.R. 658 as unfinished business.

On motion that the Committee rise Agreed to by voice vote.

Mr. Mica moved that the Committee rise.

8:52 P.M. –

By unanimous consent, the Moore amendment was withdrawn.

8:45 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Moore (WI) amendment no. 32.

Amendment offered by Ms. Moore.

An amendment numbered 32 printed in House Report 112-46 to give the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) the authority to conduct demonstration projects at five airports in support of “aerotropolis” zones that assist in better coordinating transportation around airports and funding of projects to reduce congestion, improve, and increase the flow of freight and passengers to and through the airport through multiple transportation modes.

8:44 P.M. –

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

8:41 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Schiff amendment no. 31.

Amendment offered by Mr. Schiff.

An amendment numbered 31 printed in House Report 112-46 to include sense of Congress language that the operator of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) should consult with representatives of the community surrounding LAX regarding airport operations and expansion plans.

8:40 P.M. –

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

8:35 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Matheson amendment no. 30.

Amendment offered by Mr. Matheson.

An amendment numbered 30 printed in House Report 112-46 to allow the Transportation Department to release any terms, conditions, reservations, or restrictions on deeds which the United States conveyed to an airport, city, county property for airport purposes, as long as the release results in furthering other airport purposes.

8:34 P.M. –

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

8:24 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Schiff amendment no. 29.

Amendment offered by Mr. Schiff.

An amendment numbered 29 printed in House Report 112-46 to allow Bob Hope and Van Nuys Airports in southern California to adopt curfews from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., alleviating air traffic noise for residents of the San Fernando Valley. It simplifies the process for these airports to implement a curfew by allowing airports that already had at least a partial curfew in effect before the 1990 Airport Noise and Capacity Act (PL 101-58) to implement mandatory nighttime curfews.

8:23 P.M. –

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

8:15 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Pearce amendment no. 27.

Amendment offered by Mr. Pearce.

An amendment numbered 27 printed in House Report 112-46 to authorize an equitable transfer of land and property, in the form of a road, between Dona Ana County in New Mexico and Verde Corporate Realty Services. Dona Ana County would continue to use the land for airport purposes.

8:14 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Graves (MO) amendment Agreed to by voice vote.

8:11 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Graves (MO) amendment no. 26.

Amendment offered by Mr. Graves (MO).

An amendment numbered 26 printed in House Report 112-46 to prohibit the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) from destroying vintage aircraft type certificate data and to require such data to be made available to the public, for non-commercial purposes, upon a Freedom of Information Act request.

8:10 P.M. –

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

8:07 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Moore (WI) amendment no. 25.

Amendment offered by Ms. Moore.

An amendment numbered 25 printed in House Report 112-46 to require the Transportation Department Inspector General to report to Congress on the number of new small business concerns, including those owned by veterans and other disadvantaged groups, that participate in the projects carried out throughout the duration of the reauthorization bill. The report would list the top 25 and bottom 25 large- and medium-hub airports using such small businesses, assess the reasons why airports have been successful in using such small businesses and make recommendations to the FAA and Congress on how those successes can be replicated.

8:06 P.M. –

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

7:57 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Shuster amendment no. 24.

Amendment offered by Mr. Shuster.

An amendment numbered 24 printed in House Report 112-46 to improve Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rulemaking activities by requiring the Agency to recognize that the United States aviation industry is composed of a variety of different segments with different operating characteristics and requiring the FAA to tailor regulations to address the unique characteristics of each industry segment. The amendment also requires the FAA to conduct appropriate cost/benefit studies on all proposed regulations and only enact regulations upon a finding that the costs are justified by the benefits.

7:56 P.M. –

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

7:54 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Waxman amendment no. 23.

Amendment offered by Mr. Waxman.

An amendment numbered 23 printed in House Report 112-46 to encourage the FAA to work with the City of Santa Monica to achieve safety improvements at Santa Monica Airport, a general aviation facility that has no runway safety areas.

7:53 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Graves (MO) amendment Agreed to by voice vote.

7:45 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Graves (MO) amendment no. 22.

Amendment offered by Mr. Graves (MO).

An amendment numbered 22 printed in House Report 112-46 to provide relief for an air show in Cleveland, Ohio from complying with certain airspace restrictions.

7:44 P.M. –

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

7:34 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the LaTourette amendment no. 21.

7:33 P.M. –

Amendment offered by Mr. LaTourette.

An amendment numbered 21 printed in House Report 112-46 to strike section 903. Section 903 repeals a National Mediation Board (NMB) rule, finalized last year, which provides for union representation elections among airline and railroad workers covered by the Railway Labor Act.

7:32 P.M. –

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

7:23 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Sessions amendment no. 20.

Amendment offered by Mr. Sessions.

An amendment numbered 20 printed in House Report 112-46 to prevent any funds from this act to be used to administer or enforce Davis Bacon.

7:22 P.M. –

By unanimous consent, the Graves (MO) amendment was withdrawn.

7:17 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Graves (MO) amendment no. 19.

7:16 P.M. –

Amendment offered by Mr. Graves (MO).

An amendment numbered 19 printed in House Report 112-46 to clarify Congressional intent of 49 U.S.C. 40116(d)(2)(A)(iv) to prohibit taxes on businesses located at an airport when such revenue is not used for airport purposes.

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.

7:12 P.M. –

Mr. Woodall filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 194.

H.R. 658:

to amend title 49, United States Code, to authorize appropriations for the Federal Aviation Administration for fiscal years 2011 through 2014, to streamline programs, create efficiencies, reduce waste, and improve aviation safety and capacity, to provide stable funding for the national aviation system, and for other purposes

Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union rises leaving H.R. 658 as unfinished business.

7:11 P.M. –

On motion that the Committee now rise Agreed to by voice vote.

Mr. Woodall moved that the Committee now rise.

7:10 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Gingrey (GA) amendment Failed by recorded vote: 195 – 227 (Roll no. 212).

7:06 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Capuano amendment Failed by recorded vote: 187 – 235 (Roll no. 211).

7:02 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Hirono amendment Failed by recorded vote: 174 – 241 (Roll no. 210).

6:59 P.M. –

On agreeing to the DeFazio amendment Failed by recorded vote: 161 – 263 (Roll no. 209).

6:55 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Garrett amendment Failed by recorded vote: 120 – 303 (Roll no. 208).

6:48 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Mica amendment Agreed to by recorded vote: 251 – 168 (Roll no. 207).

6:26 P.M. –

UNFINIHSED 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.

6:25 P.M. –

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

6:18 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Gingrey amendment no. 18.

Amendment offered by Mr. Gingrey (GA).

An amendment numbered 18 printed in House Report 112-46 to prohibit FAA employees from using official–taxpayer sponsored–time for union activities during the official work day. It would not repeal the right of any FAA employee to collectively bargain or arbitrate.

6:17 P.M. –

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

6:12 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Capuano amendment no. 17.

6:11 P.M. –

Amendment offered by Mr. Capuano.

An amendment numbered 17 printed in House Report 112-46 to require greater disclosure of a passenger’s baggage fees when a fare is quoted to an airline passenger and require refunds for baggage that is lost, damaged, or delayed. The Secretary of Transportation would prescribe any requirements necessary to implement the baggage fee disclosures by ensuring that necessary information is shared between carriers and ticket agents that have an already existing agency appointment or contract.

On agreeing to the Richardson amendment Failed by voice vote.

6:03 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Richardson amendment no. 16.

Amendment offered by Ms. Richardson.

An amendment numbered 16 printed in House Report 112-46 to require air carriers to provide an option for passengers to receive a notification via electronic service if there are any changes to the status of their flight.

6:02 P.M. –

By unanimous consent, the Schweikert amendment was withdrawn.

5:55 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Schweikert amendment no. 15.

Amendment offered by Mr. Schweikert.

An amendment numbered 15 printed in House Report 112-46 to allow airlines currently operating out of DCA to convert flights to and from large hub airports located within the DCA perimeter to any airport outside of the DCA perimeter.

5:54 P.M. –

By unanimous consent, the Pierluisi amendment was withdrawn.

5:49 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Pierluisi amendment no. 14.

Amendment offered by Mr. Pierluisi.

An amendment numbered 14 printed in House Report 112-46 to authorize the Secretary of Transportation to continue the essential air service program in Puerto Rico following the sunset date of October 1, 2013. The bill authorizes continuation for Alaska and Hawaii.

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

5:47 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Woodall amendment.

5:46 P.M. –

Amendment offered by Mr. Woodall.

An amendment numbered 13 printed in House Report 112-46 to prohibit implementation by the FAA of a new rule interpretation relating to 14 CFR 135, sections 263 and 267(d) so far as it relates to air ambulances and air cargo charter pilot rest requirements. Sets the interpretation of those sections at the state they were on January 1, 2011.

On agreeing to the Miller (MI) amendment Agreed to by voice vote.

5:39 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Miller (MI) amendment.

Amendment offered by Mrs. Miller (MI).

An amendment numbered 12 printed in House Report 112-46 to direct the FAA to work with various federal agencies to integrate Unmanned Aerial Systems into the National Airspace System more expeditiously.

By unanimous consent, the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment was withdrawn.

5:31 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Jackson Lee amendment.

Amendment offered by Ms. Jackson Lee (TX).

An amendment numberedd 11 printed in House Report 112-46 to require a minimum of three on duty air traffic controllers.

5:30 P.M. –

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

5:21 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Hirono amendment no.10.

Amendment offered by Ms. Hirono.

An amendment numbered 10 printed in House Report 112-46 to establish an Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) to study and provide regulatory recommendations to the Federal Aviation Administrator to ensure that all certified aircraft is properly equipped with technology that maintains pilot visibility when dense, continuous smoke is present in the cockpit. The ARC would be directed to complete its work in one year and provide its recommendations to the Administrator who must inform Congress of the recommendations and outline what actions the agency will take on the basis of those recommendations.

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

5:11 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the DeFazio amendment.

Amendment offered by Mr. DeFazio.

An amendment numbered 9 printed in House Report 112-46 to require mechanics at contract repair stations certificated by the Federal Aviation Administration in the U.S. and in foreign countries to undergo the same criminal background checks required for mechanics and other aviation employees at U.S. airports.

5:10 P.M. –

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

4:59 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Garrett (NJ) amendment.

Amendment offered by Mr. Garrett.

An amendment numbered 7 printed in House Report 112-46 to require the FAA to study alternatives to the New York/New Jersey/Philadelphia airspace redesign to reduce delays at the 4 airports included in the redesign. Would also prohibit the FAA from continuing with the implementation of the airspace redesign until the study is submitted to Congress.

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

4:56 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the LoBiondo amendment.

Amendment offered by Mr. LoBiondo.

An amendment numbered 6 printed in House Report 112-46 to allow the FAA to assist in establishing a NextGen Research and Development Center of Excellence. The Center would leverage the FAA’s existing centers of excellence program, a program that relies on several university consortia to address ongoing FAA research and development challenges. The Center would provide educational, technical, and analytical assistance to the FAA and other agencies involved in the development of NextGen.

4:55 P.M. –

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

4:48 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Neugebauer amendment.

Amendment offered by Mr. Neugebauer.

An amendment numbered 5 printed in House Report 112-46 to direct the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to conduct a feasibility study on the development of an online public resource that would list the location and height of potential low-altitude aviation obstructions, such as guy-wire and free-standing towers. Would also give the Administrator one year to conduct the study and report to Congress.

4:47 P.M. –

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

4:39 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Hirono amendment.

Amendment offered by Ms. Hirono.

An amendment numbered 4 printed in House Report 112-46 to exempt Hawaii’s large and medium hub airports from collecting PFCs from interisland travelers due to the unique everyday travel circumstances the island state presents. Would also change the formula under which Hawaii’s annual federal apportionments are reduced when the State’s large and medium hub airports collect passenger facility charges from overseas travelers.

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

4:32 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Pierluisi amendment.

Amendment offered by Mr. Pierluisi.

An amendment numbered 3 printed in House Report 112-46 to ensure that airports in Puerto Rico are apportioned amounts under the Airport Improvement Program (AlP), while also remaining eligible for discretionary grants under the Program.

4:31 P.M. –

By unanimous consent, the Waters amendment was withdrawn.

4:25 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Waters amendment.

Amendment offered by Ms. Waters.

An amendment numbered 2 printed in House Report 112-46 to require airport operators, as a condition for receiving grants under the Airport Improvement Program, to consult with representatives of the community surrounding the airport regarding airport operations and their impact on the community.

4:24 P.M. –

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

4:13 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Mica amendment.

Amendment offered by Mr. Mica.

An amendment numbered 1 printed in House Report 112-46 to make technical corrections to provisions in the underlying bill.

2:58 P.M. –

GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 658.

2:57 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. 189 and Rule XVIII.

2:55 P.M. –

Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 658 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. Specified amendments are in order. In lieu of the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure now printed in the bill, it shall be in order to consider as an original bill for the purpose of amendment under the five-minute rule an amendment in the nature of a substitute consisting of the text of the Rules Committee Print dated March 22, 2011.

Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 189.

H.R. 872:

to amend the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to clarify Congressional intent regarding the regulation of the use of pesticides in or near navigable waters, and for other purposes

2:54 P.M. –

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

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 292 – 130 (Roll no. 206).

2:46 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H. Res. 189:

providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 658) to amend title 49, United States Code, to authorize appropriations for the Federal Aviation Administration for fiscal years 2011 through 2014, to streamline programs, create efficiencies, reduce waste, and improve aviation safety and capacity, to provide stable funding for the national aviation system, and for other purposes

2:45 P.M. –

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 249 – 171 (Roll no. 205).

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

2:22 P.M. –

The previous question was ordered without objection.

1:25 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 189.

1:23 P.M. –

Considered as privileged matter.

12:38 P.M. –

POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE – Pursuant to clause 1 of rule IX, Mr. Kucinich rose to a point of personal privilege and was recognized by the Chair to proceed for one hour.

12:37 P.M. –

INVESTIGATIVE SUBCOMMITTEES OF THE COMMITTEE ON ETHICS – Pursuant to Clause 5(a)(4)(A) of Rule X, and the order of the House of January 5, 2011, the Speaker appointed Mr. Bishop of Utah, Mrs. Blackburn of Tennessee, Mr. Crenshaw of Florida, Mr. Latham of Iowa, Mr. Simpson of Idaho, Mr. Walden of Oregon, Mr. Olson of Texas, Mr. Latta of Ohio, Mr. Griffin of Arkansas, and Mr. Grimm of New York to be available to serve on Investigative Subcommittees of the Committee on Ethics for the 112th Congress .

12:12 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.

12:09 P.M. –

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Coffman of CO 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.

12:08 P.M. –

Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Dr. Charles Jackson, Sr., Brookland Baptist Church, West Columbia, South Carolina.

12:07 P.M. –

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 31.

10:45 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 Virginia Foxx to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

Congress at work -Republican led House back on 3/8 -The Senate will deal with S.23 today


The Senate Convenes at  2:00pmET March 7, 2011

Morning business until 4:30pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

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

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

-Calendar #4, Anthony Battaglia, of CA, to be US District Judge for the Southern District of CA

-Calendar #32, Sue Myerscough, of IL, to be US District Judge for the Central District of IL

-Calendar #33, James Shadid, of IL, to be US District Judge for the Central District of IL

There will be one hour for debate equally divided between Senators Leahy and Grassley or their designees.

Upon the use or yielding back of time, Calendar #32, Sue Myerscough, of IL, to be US District Judge for the Central District of IL will be confirmed.

The Senate will then proceed to a series of 3 roll call votes on the following:

confirmation of Executive Calendar #33, James Shadid, of IL, to be US District Judge for the Central District of IL

-confirmation of Executive Calendar #4, Anthony Battaglia, of CA, to be US District Judge for the Southern District of CA

-motion to invoke cloture on S.23, the America Invents Act

5:00pm Filing deadline for all 2nd degree amendments to S.23, the America Invents Act.

There will be no further roll call votes today.

Cloture on S.23, the America Invents Act, was invoked by a vote of 87-3.

Following the vote, the pending Leahy and Bennet amendments were withdrawn. The Baucus amendment #141, as modified, was agreed to. Senator Reid then called up amendment #143 (to include public higher education in EPSCOR jurisdictions in definition of micro entity) and Reid #152 (effective date).

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

Votes:

32: Confirmation of Executive Calendar #33, James Shadid, of IL, to be US District Judge for the Central District of IL;

Confirmed: 89-0

33: Confirmation of Executive Calendar #4, Anthony Battaglia, of CA, to be US District Judge for the Southern District of CA;

Confirmed: 89-0

34: Motion to invoke cloture on S.23, the America Invents Act;

Invoked: 87-3

Unanimous Consent:

Adopted S.Res.55, a resolution expressing support for designation of a “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The next meeting is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on March 8, 2011 for Morning-Hour Debate.

Congress: back in Session 3/1/11 …Budget debates & possible votes


The Senate Convenes at 10:00amET March 1,2011

Following any Leader remarks, there will be a period of morning business for 1 hour with senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each. The Majority will control the first 30 minutes and the Republicans will control the final half.

Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of S.23, Patent Reform Act of 2011.

The following amendments are pending to S.23:

– Leahy amendment #114 (Title amendment)

– Vitter for Toomey-Vitter amendment, #112, as modified,(Debt Limit)

– Bennet amendment #116 (small business fast track)

– Bennet amendment #117 (regional PTO offices)

– Lee amendment #115 (to express the sense of the Senate in support of a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution)

– Leahy amendment #121 (managers’ amendment)

– Kirk amendment #123 (Ombudsman for small busienss concerns)

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

At 5pm, there will be 2 roll call votes in relation to the following amendments to S.23, Patent Reform Act:

– Leahy-Grassley amendment #121, as modified (managers’ amendment); and

– Vitter for Toomey-Vitter amendment #112, as modified (Priority of payments if debt limit is reached).

The time until 5pm will be equally divided and controlled between the two Leaders or their designees. No amendments are in order to the amendments in this agreement prior to a vote. The Vitter amendment #113, as modified, is withdrawn.

Votes:

27: Leahy-Grassley amendment #121: , as modified (managers’ amendment);

Agreed To: 97-2

28: Now Voting on Baucus motion to table Vitter for Toomey-Vitter amendment #112: , as modified (Priority of payments if debt limit is reached).

There will be no further roll call votes during Tuesday’s session of the Senate.

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF MARCH 1, 2011

112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

 

4:28 P.M. –

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

4:26 P.M. –

Mr. Sessions filed reports from the Committee on Rules, H. Res. 128 and H. Res. 129.

4:19 P.M. –

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

4:14 P.M. –

On approving the Journal Agreed to by voice vote.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was on agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal.

H.J. Res. 44:

making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2011, and for other purposes

4:13 P.M. –

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

On passage Passed by recorded vote: 335 – 91 (Roll no. 154).

4:05 P.M. –

On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 176 – 249 (Roll no. 153).

3:34 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with ten minutes of debate on the Keating motion to recommit with instructions. The instructions contained in the motion seek to require the Committee on Appropriations to report the bill back to the House forthwith with an amendment which inserts a section prohibiting the use of funds to be used for tax benefit or relief for any major integrated oil company.

3:31 P.M. –

Mr. Keating moved to recommit with instructions to Appropriations.

Mr. Keating moved to recommit the joint resolution H.J. Res. 44 to the Committee on Appropriations with instructions to report the same to the House forthwith with the following amendments: ¢ Page 18, line 21, strike the quotation marks and final period. ¢ Page 18, after line 21, insert the following: ¢ “Sec. 227. For the period beginning on the date of the enactment of the Further Continuing Appropriations Amendments,***

The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.

2:08 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H.J. Res. 44.

2:07 P.M. –

Rule provides for consideration of H.J. Res. 44 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. All points of order against consideration of the joint resolution are waived.

Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 115.

H. Res. 115:

providing for consideration of the joint resolution (H.J. Res. 44) making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2011, and for other purposes

2:05 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: 251 – 170 (Roll no. 152).

1:58 P.M. –

On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 241 – 179 (Roll no. 151).

12:31 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 115.

Considered as privileged matter.

12:11 P.M. –

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

12:10 P.M. –

The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate agreed to S. Con. Res. 8 and S. Res. 78 .

12:03 P.M. –

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

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

12:02 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. Duncan (TN) 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. Duncan (TN) objected to the voice vote based upon the absence of a quorum and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal until later in the legislative day.

12:01 P.M. –

Today’s prayer was offered by Pastor Alisa Lasater Wailoo, Capitol Hill Methodist Church, Washington, DC.

12:00 P.M. –

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 1.

11:28 A.M. –

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

10:02 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.

10:01 A.M. –

The Speaker designated the Honorable Daniel Webster to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

10:00 A.M. –

The House convened, starting a new legislative day.