Tag Archives: harry reid

CONGRESS: the Republicans/House : the Democrats/Senate

11/15/2012 Nativegrl77

the Senate Convenes: 9:00amET November 15, 2012

Following the prayer and the pledge, the Majority Leader will be recognized.
The filing deadline for second degree amendments to S.3525, the Sportsmen’s Act of 2012 is 9:10am on Thursday.
At 9:15am, the Senate will conduct a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on S.3525.

9:20am The Senate began a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on S.3525, Sportsmen’s Act of 2012; Invoked: 84-12

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Watch Most Recent House Floor Activity

The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on November 15, 2012.

10:00:27 A.M.		The House convened, starting a new legislative day.
10:00:37 A.M.		<ACTION_DESCRIPTION>The Speaker designated the Honorable Blake Farenthold to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.
10:00:50 A.M.		The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate passed H.R. 6118 and H.R. 6131, without amendment.
10:01:10 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.
10:50:38 A.M.		The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 P.M. today.
12:00:21 P.M.		The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of November 15.
12:00:25 P.M.		Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Dr. Alan Keiran, Office of the United States Senate.
12:01:38 P.M.		The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.
12:01:44 P.M.		PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mrs. Biggert to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
12:02:36 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.
12:24:30 P.M.	H. Res. 808	Considered as privileged matter. H. Res. 808 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 6156) to authorize the extension of nondiscriminatory treatment (normal trade relations treatment) to products of the Russian Federation and Moldova and to require reports on the compliance of the Russian Federation with its obligations as a member of the World Trade Organization, and for other purposes.”
12:24:44 P.M.	H. Res. 808	DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 808.
1:25:26 P.M.	H. Res. 808	POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on H. Res. 808, the Chair put the question on ordering the previous question and by voice vote announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. McGovern demanded the yeas and nays, and the Chair postponed further proceedings on ordering the previous question until later in the legislative day.
1:26:04 P.M.		The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.

5:05:49 P.M.		The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of November 15.
5:06:06 P.M.	H. Res. 808	Considered as unfinished business. H. Res. 808 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 6156) to authorize the extension of nondiscriminatory treatment (normal trade relations treatment) to products of the Russian Federation and Moldova and to require reports on the compliance of the Russian Federation with its obligations as a member of the World Trade Organization, and for other purposes.”
5:33:26 P.M.	H. Res. 808	On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (Roll no. 605).

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Act Now to End the Federal Judicial Crisis

08/23/2012 Nativegrl77

With all of the attention on the presidential and congressional elections right now, it can be easy to forget that there’s a third branch of government. But the judicial branch is just as important – and it needs our help.

Our constitutional rights and individual liberties are protected by a strong and effective judiciary. But our courts are in crisis because of the “judicial emergency” created by vacancies in courtrooms nationwide. Why? Because an average of 1 out of every 10 judicial seats is vacant nationwide.

Ask your senators to help protect our freedoms by moving forward with judicial confirmations!

A strong judiciary is critical to American women. Not only can the federal courts be a shield for civil rights laws like Title IX and the Equal Pay Act, but they’re also often the last, best hope for women who have experienced discrimination in education, employment, health care, and in other aspects of their lives. Yet with the Senate dragging its heels, we’ve got 32 federal courts in a state of “judicial emergency,” which means there are far too few judges to keep up with all the cases. Half of these courts have pending nominees – but the Senate still hasn’t acted to fill those vacancies.

Furthermore, the slow confirmation process is also affecting the diversity of the courts. While President Obama has nominated an impressive number of women and people of color for the bench, that’s only half the battle. The only way to increase the diversity of the judiciary is for the Senate to confirm qualified nominees. Of the 32 nominees pending before the Senate, 19 of them are women or people of color. This is not acceptable.

To be sure, President Obama has not been nominating people to fill the vacancies as quickly as he could – and AAUW has told him that. But the fact remains that there are 32 nominees, 22 of whom have already been approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee, that the Senate could confirm when it returns from recess next month.

So that’s why we need you to send a message to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY). Ask your senators to urge Sens. Reid and McConnell to quickly call for confirmation of the federal judicial nominees from your state and move all consensus nominations to the Senate floor immediately for confirmation.

The vacancy crisis can have an easy solution, but we need your help. To send a letter to your senators, click the “Take Action” link or visit AAUW’s Two-Minute Activist.

Black History

Congress: the Republican led House – the Senate considers S.3414,Cybersecurity bill & caucus day

07/31/2012 Nativegrl77

the Senate Convenes: 10:00amET July 31, 2012

Following the prayer and pledge, the Majority Leader will be recognized.
The Senate will resume consideration of S.3414, the Cybersecurity bill. The Senate will be in a period of debate only until 2:15pm with the Majority Leader to be recognized at 2:15pm.
Additionally, the time until 12:30pm will be equally divided and controlled between the two Leaders or their designees with the Majority controlling the first hour and the Republicans controlling the second hour.
The Senate will recess from 12:30pm until 2:15pm to allow for the weekly caucus meetings.

By consent, the Senate has extended the period for debate only on the Cybersecurity bill (S.3414) until 5pm today in order to give the managers more time to work on a path forward on the bill.

September Vote on Six-Month CR Would Provide Stability for Fall Fiscal Negotiations

Washington, D.C. – Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid announced an agreement with House Speaker John Boehner and President Barack Obama on a six-month Continuing Resolution (CR) that will avoid a government shutdown while funding the government at $1.047 trillion.

“This agreement reached between the Senate, the House and the White House provides stability for the coming months, when we will have to resolve critical issues that directly affect middle class families. The funding levels in the six-month CR will correspond to the top-line funding level of $1.047 trillion. I hope that we can face the challenges ahead in the same spirit of compromise.”

Senator Reid offered Lieberman-Collins amendment # 2731 and Franken amendment #2732 to S.3414, Cybersecurity Act of 2012. He then filled the remaining amendments on the so called amendment tree. Finally, he filed cloture on the bill.

Senator Reid then moved to proceed to S.3429, Veterans Jobs Corps Act of 2012

As a result of cloture being filed, the filing deadline for first degree amendments to S.3414 is 1:00pm on Wednesday, August 1. If your senator has a germane first degree amendment and would like to preserve their ability to offer, please send a signed copy of the amendment to the cloakroom prior to the deadline so that we may file it at the desk for you. If you have already filed, there is no need to refile.

WRAP UP

No ROLL CALL VOTES

LEGISLATIVE ITEMS

Discharged Foreign Relations and adopted S.Res.525, a resolution honoring the life and legacy of Oswaldo Paya Sardinas with a Nelson FL amendment.

Completed the Rule 14 process of S.3457, the Veterans Jobs Corps Act. (Nelson FL)

Completed the Rule 14 process of H.R.4078, the Red Tape Reduction and Small Business Job Creation Act. (Republican request)

No EXECUTIVE ITEMS

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The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 2:00 P.M. today.

The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. on July 31, 2012.

http://www.houselive.gov/

12:00:06 P.M.		The House convened, starting a new legislative day.
12:00:17 P.M.		The Speaker designated the Honorable Steve Womack to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.
12:00:39 P.M.		MORNING-HOUR DEBATE – The House proceeded with Morning-Hour Debate. At the conclusion of Morning-Hour, the House will recess until 2:00 p.m. for the start of legislative business.
12:28:54 P.M.		The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 2:00 P.M. today.
2:00:37 P.M.		The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 31.
2:00:54 P.M.		Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.
2:01:52 P.M.		The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.
2:01:56 P.M.		PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Ms. Foxx to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
2:02:17 P.M.		ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches.
2:12:00 P.M.		The House received a communication from John L. Mica, Chairman, Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. Mr. Mica notified the House that on July 26, 2012, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure met in open session to consider resolutions to authorize 12 lease prospectuses included in the General Services Administration’s FY2011 and FY2012 Capital Investment and Leasing Programs and one resolution to authorize the exercise of a purchase option on currently leased space for $14 million below fair market value. The Committee adopted the resolutions on July 26, 2012.
2:14:49 P.M.		The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for approximately 3:30 p.m. today.
3:30:39 P.M.		The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 31.
3:30:46 P.M.		The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until a time to be announced.
3:30:58 P.M.	S. 679	Mr. Chaffetz moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. S. 679 — “To reduce the number of executive positions subject to Senate confirmation.”
3:31:13 P.M.	S. 679	Considered under suspension of the rules.
3:31:15 P.M.	S. 679	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 679.
3:45:49 P.M.	S. 679	At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.
3:46:16 P.M.	H.R. 4365	Mr. Chaffetz moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 4365 — “To amend title 5, United States Code, to make clear that accounts in the Thrift Savings Fund are subject to certain Federal tax levies.”
3:46:32 P.M.	H.R. 4365	Considered under suspension of the rules.
3:46:33 P.M.	H.R. 4365	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 4365.
3:52:19 P.M.	H.R. 4365	At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.
3:53:06 P.M.	S. 300	Mr. Chaffetz moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. S. 300 — “To prevent abuse of Government charge cards.”
3:53:23 P.M.	S. 300	Considered under suspension of the rules.
3:53:26 P.M.	S. 300	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 300.
3:59:25 P.M.	S. 300	At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mrs. Maloney 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.
3:59:53 P.M.	H.R. 828	Mr. Chaffetz moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 828 — “To amend title 5, United States Code, to provide that persons having seriously delinquent tax debts shall be ineligible for Federal employment.”
4:00:08 P.M.	H.R. 828	Considered under suspension of the rules.
4:00:10 P.M.	H.R. 828	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 828.
4:11:23 P.M.	H.R. 828	At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.
4:12:19 P.M.	H.R. 1627	Mr. Miller (FL) moved that the House suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendments.
4:13:17 P.M.	H.R. 1627	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on concurring in the Senate amendments to H.R. 1627.
4:49:24 P.M.	H.R. 1627	On motion that the House suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendments Agreed to by voice vote.
4:49:25 P.M.	H.R. 1627	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
4:49:48 P.M.	H.R. 4073	Mr. Lamborn moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 4073 — “To authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to accept the quitclaim, disclaimer, and relinquishment of a railroad right of way within and adjacent to Pike National Forest in El Paso County, Colorado, originally granted to the Mt. Manitou Park and Incline Railway Company pursuant to the Act of March 3, 1875.”
4:50:03 P.M.	H.R. 4073	Considered under suspension of the rules.
4:50:06 P.M.	H.R. 4073	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 4073.
4:53:07 P.M.	H.R. 4073	At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Sablan 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.
4:54:40 P.M.	H.R. 3641	Mr. Lamborn moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 3641 — “To establish Pinnacles National Park in the State of California as a unit of the National Park System, and for other purposes.”
4:54:56 P.M.	H.R. 3641	Considered under suspension of the rules.
4:54:58 P.M.	H.R. 3641	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3641.
5:03:58 P.M.	H.R. 3641	On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
5:04:03 P.M.	H.R. 3641	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
5:04:21 P.M.	H.R. 3706	Mr. Lamborn moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 3706 — “To create the Office of Chief Financial Officer of the Government of the Virgin Islands, and for other purposes.”
5:04:34 P.M.	H.R. 3706	Considered under suspension of the rules.
5:04:37 P.M.	H.R. 3706	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3706.
5:12:54 P.M.	H.R. 3706	At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Lamborn 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.
5:13:20 P.M.	S. 270	Mr. Lamborn moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. S. 270 — “To direct the Secretary of the Interior to convey certain Federal land to Deschutes County, Oregon.”
5:13:33 P.M.	S. 270	Considered under suspension of the rules.
5:13:37 P.M.	S. 270	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 270.
5:18:49 P.M.	S. 270	At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Lamborn 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.
5:19:15 P.M.	S. 271	Mr. Lamborn moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. S. 271 — “To require the Secretary of Agriculture to enter into a property conveyance with the city of Wallowa, Oregon, and for other purposes.”
5:19:35 P.M.	S. 271	Considered under suspension of the rules.
5:19:36 P.M.	S. 271	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 271.
5:24:57 P.M.	S. 271	At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Lamborn 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.
5:25:41 P.M.		The Speaker laid before the House a message from the President transmitting a notice reporting the issuance of an Executive Order that takes additional steps with respect to the national emergency declared in Executive Order 12957 regarding comprehensive trade and financial sanctions on Iran. – referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs and ordered to be printed (H. Doc. 112-128).
5:31:24 P.M.		The House is in recess for a period of less than 15 minutes.
5:45:05 P.M.		The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 31.
5:46:08 P.M.	H.R. 3803	Mr. Franks (AZ) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 3803 — “To amend title 18, United States Code, to protect pain-capable unborn children in the District of Columbia, and for other purposes.”
5:46:28 P.M.	H.R. 3803	Considered under suspension of the rules.
5:46:30 P.M.	H.R. 3803	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3803.
6:37:08 P.M.	H.R. 3803	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.
6:38:00 P.M.	S. 679	Considered as unfinished business. S. 679 — “To reduce the number of executive positions subject to Senate confirmation.”
7:00:12 P.M.		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.
7:07:35 P.M.	S. 679	On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 261 – 116 (Roll no. 537).
7:07:36 P.M.	S. 679	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
7:08:03 P.M.	H.R. 828	Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 828 — “To amend title 5, United States Code, to provide that persons having seriously delinquent tax debts shall be ineligible for Federal employment.”
7:14:27 P.M.	H.R. 828	On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 263 – 114 (Roll no. 538).
7:14:28 P.M.	H.R. 828	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
7:14:45 P.M.	H.R. 3803	Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 3803 — “To amend title 18, United States Code, to protect pain-capable unborn children in the District of Columbia, and for other purposes.”
7:21:43 P.M.	H.R. 3803	On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Failed by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 220 – 154, 2 Present (Roll no. 539).
7:24:00 P.M.	H.R. 3796	Mr. Smith (TX) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 3796 — “To reauthorize certain programs established by the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006.”
7:24:27 P.M.	H.R. 3796	<action_description>Considered under suspension of the rules.
7:24:28 P.M.	H.R. 3796	<action_description>DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3796.
7:36:11 P.M.	H.R. 3796	<action_description>At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Scott (VA) 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.
7:36:46 P.M.	H.R. 1950	<action_description>Mr. Smith (TX) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 1950 — “To enact title 54, United States Code, “National Park System”, as positive law.”
7:37:16 P.M.	H.R. 1950	<action_description>Considered under suspension of the rules.
7:37:17 P.M.	H.R. 1950	<action_description>DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 1950.
7:41:10 P.M.	H.R. 1950	<action_description>At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Scott (VA) 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.
7:42:14 P.M.	H.R. 3120	<action_description>Mr. Smith (TX) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 3120 — “To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to require accreditation of certain educational institutions for purposes of a nonimmigrant student visa, and for other purposes.”
7:42:36 P.M.	H.R. 3120	Considered under suspension of the rules.
7:42:40 P.M.	H.R. 3120	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3120.
7:47:55 P.M.	H.R. 3120	At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Smith (TX) 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.
7:48:30 P.M.	H.R. 6029	Mr. Smith (TX) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 6029 — “To amend title 18, United States Code, to provide for increased penalties for foreign and economic espionage, and for other purposes.”
7:48:44 P.M.	H.R. 6029	Considered under suspension of the rules.
7:48:46 P.M.	H.R. 6029	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 6029.
7:57:42 P.M.	H.R. 6029	At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Scott (VA) 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.
7:58:26 P.M.	H.R. 6063	Mr. Smith (TX) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 6063 — “To amend title 18, United States Code, with respect to child pornography and child exploitation offenses.”
7:58:39 P.M.	H.R. 6063	Considered under suspension of the rules.
7:58:41 P.M.	H.R. 6063	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 6063.
8:15:17 P.M.	H.R. 6063	At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Smith (TX) 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.
8:15:59 P.M.	H.R. 4362	Mr. Smith (TX) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 4362 — “To provide effective criminal prosecutions for certain identity thefts, and for other purposes.”
8:16:08 P.M.	H.R. 4362	Considered under suspension of the rules.
8:16:10 P.M.	H.R. 4362	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 4362.
8:32:27 P.M.	H.R. 4362	At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Smith (TX) 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.
8:33:24 P.M.	H.R. 6062	Mr. Smith (TX) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 6062 — “To reauthorize the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program through fiscal year 2017.”
8:33:33 P.M.	H.R. 6062	Considered under suspension of the rules.
8:33:35 P.M.	H.R. 6062	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 6062.
8:43:11 P.M.	H.R. 6062	At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Scott (VA) 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.
8:43:47 P.M.		Ms. Foxx filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 747.
8:44:49 P.M.	H.R. 1550	Mr. Smith (TX) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 1550 — “To establish programs in the Department of Justice and in the Department of Homeland Security to help States that have high rates of homicide and other violent crime, and for other purposes.”
8:44:59 P.M.	H.R. 1550	Considered under suspension of the rules.
8:45:01 P.M.	H.R. 1550	DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 1550.
9:02:18 P.M.	H.R. 1550	At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Smith (TX) 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.
9:03:34 P.M.		SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.
9:47:00 P.M.		Mr. Bishop (UT) moved that the House do now adjourn.
9:47:08 P.M.		On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.
9:47:13 P.M.		The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on August 1, 2012.

~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

Bush-era tax cuts for the richest two percent

07/24/2012 Nativegrl77 1 Comment

National Women's Law Center - Don't Discount Women: Demand Fair Change Not Spare Change


	Stand Up for Tax Fairness



	Call your Members of Congress at 1-888-744-9958 and tell them that it’s time for the richest Americans to pay their fair share.

	Call 1-888-744-9958 today!

It’s go time!
In less than 24 hours Congress will start to vote on whether to end — or extend — the Bush-era tax cuts for the richest two percent.
Ending the Bush-era tax cuts on income above $250,000 per couple, as President Obama and Senator Harry Reid (D-NV) have proposed, would help restore fairness to the tax code and protect programs vital to women and their families. It would give 98 percent of Americans their full tax cuts next year. And the wealthiest two percent would still receive tax breaks on their first $250,000! We simply can’t afford to give even more tax breaks to those who need them least when so many women and families are struggling just to make ends meet.
Calling is easy. And only takes a couple of minutes. Dial 1-888-744-9958 and listen to easy instructions and a sample script.
Ending the Bush-era tax cuts on income above $250,000 would save about $1 trillion over the next ten years — funding that’s urgently needed to protect programs like child care, Pell Grants, Head Start, Medicaid, and Title X family planning services. It’s time to stop trying to balance the budget on the backs of women and families. The richest Americans need to start paying their fair share of taxes.
There’s no time to waste: Call your Members of Congress at 1-888-744-9958 and tell them that it’s time for the richest Americans to pay their fair share: we need to end the Bush tax cuts on income over $250,000.
Your Senators and Representative are getting ready to vote and they need to hear from you right NOW! Tell them that you expect them to stand up for women and families — and end the Bush tax cuts for the richest two percent!
Sincerely,

Joan Entmacher Vice President, Family Economic Security National Women’s Law Center

P.S. When we are this close to a vote, calls are one of the most effective ways for us to make an impact. Please take just a few minutes to call your Members of Congress at 1-888-744-9958.

Black History

CONGRESS: the Republican led House / the Senate considers S.2237

07/12/2012 Nativegrl77

Convenes: 9:30amET July 12, 2012
Following the prayer and pledge, the Majority Leader will be recognized.
The first hour will be equally divided and controlled between the two Leaders or their designees with the Majority controlling the first half and the Republicans controlling the final half.
As a reminder, cloture was filed on the Landrieu substitute amendment #2521 and S.2237, the Small Business Jobs and Tax Relief Act on Wednesday. As a result, the filing deadline for first degree amendments the Landrieu substitute amendment and to S.2237 is 1:00pm on Thursday.
Unless an agreement can be reached, the cloture votes will be on Friday but Senator Reid announced we hope to come to an agreement to have them tomorrow.

As a reminder, the filing deadline for first degree amendments to S.2237, the Small Business Jobs bill, is 1pm today.

During his opening remarks this morning, Senator Reid announced he has a general agreement with the Republican Leader that we will try to schedule the cloture votes on the Landrieu substitute amendment #2251 and the underlying Small Business Jobs bill today. If no agreement can be reached, those votes would occur tomorrow. Senators will be notified when any votes are scheduled.

This morning Senator Reid moved to proceed to S.3369, a bill to amend the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to provide for additional disclosure requirements for corporations, labor organizations, Super PACs and other entities (DISCLOSE Act).

The Senate has reached an agreement that results in a series of 3 roll call votes beginning at 2pm today. Those votes will be in relation to the following items:

– Reid amendment #2524 (text of H.R.9, Cantor tax bill)

– Motion to invoke cloture on Landrieu amendment #2521 (Substitute) (If cloture on the substitute is invoked, all post-cloture debate time would be yielded back and the amendment would be agreed to)

– Motion to invoke cloture on of S.2237, the Small Business Jobs bill

There will be 2 minutes for debate equally divided between the votes. All after the first vote will be 10 minutes in duration.

60 votes needed

2:00pm The Senate began a roll call vote on the motion to table the Reid amendment #2524 (Cantor – H.R.9); Tabled: 73-24

2:30pm The Senate began a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Landrieu substitute amendment #2521 to S.2237, the Small Business Jobs and Tax Relief Act; Not Invoked: 57-41

2:50pm The Senate began a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on S.2237, the Small Business Jobs and Tax Relief Act; Not Invoked: 53-44

ROLL CALL VOTES

1) Motion to table the Reid amendment #2524 (text of H.R.9, Cantor tax bill); Tabled: 73-24

2) Motion to invoke cloture on Landrieu amendment #2521 (Substitute) Not Invoked: 57-41

3) Motion to invoke cloture on of S.2237, the Small Business Jobs bill; Not Invoked: 53-44

LEGISLATIVE ITEMS

Passed H.R.3902, the District of Columbia Special Election Reform Act by voice vote.

Discharged the Banking Committee and passed H.R.2527, the National Baseball Hall of Fame Commemorative Coin Act with a Gillibrand substitute amendment.

Began the Rule 14 process of H.R.6079, the Repeal of Obamacare Act. (Republican request)

No EXECUTIVE ITEMS

At 5pm on Monday, there will be 30 minutes for debate on Executive Calendar #662, the nomination of Kevin McNulty, of New Jersey, to be United States District Judge for the District of New Jersey, prior to a vote on confirmation of the nomination.

Senator Reid filed cloture on the motion to proceed to S.3369, the DISCLOSE Act. By consent, following the 5:30pm vote on the McNulty nomination, there will be 10 minutes for debate prior to the cloture vote on the motion to proceed to S.3369.

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The House is scheduled to meet at 9:15amET July 12, 2012

the House adjourned at 1:55pmET

www.Houselive.gov

9:00:16 A.M.		The House convened, starting a new legislative day.
9:00:30 A.M.		The Speaker designated the Honorable Shelley Moore Capito to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.
9:00:44 A.M.		Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.
9:02:12 A.M.		The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.
9:02:17 A.M.		PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Hultgren to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
9:03:03 A.M.		ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches which by direction of the Chair, would be limited to 5 per side of the aisle.
9:14:52 A.M.	H.R. 4402	Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 726. H.R. 4402 — “To require the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture to more efficiently develop domestic sources of the minerals and mineral materials of strategic and critical importance to United States economic and national security and manufacturing competitiveness.”
9:14:57 A.M.	H.R. 4402	Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 4402 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. The resolution makes in order as original text for purpose of amendment the amendment in the nature of a substitute consisting of the text of Rules Committee Print 112-26. All points of order against the amendment in the nature of a substitute are waived.
9:15:23 A.M.	H.R. 4402	House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 726 and Rule XVIII.
9:15:24 A.M.	H.R. 4402	The Speaker designated the Honorable Shelley Moore Capito to act as Chairwoman of the Committee.
9:15:55 A.M.	H.R. 4402	GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 4402.
10:23:21 A.M.	H.R. 4402	An amendment, offered by Mr. Tonko, numbered 1 printed in House Report 112-590 to narrow the scope of the underlying bill to include strategic and critical minerals only.
10:23:26 A.M.	H.R. 4402	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 726, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Tonko amendment No. 1.
10:33:00 A.M.	H.R. 4402	POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Tonko amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Tonko demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.
10:33:59 A.M.	H.R. 4402	An amendment, offered by Mr. Hastings (FL), numbered 2 printed in House Report 112-590 to give the lead agency, in the event of new or unforeseen information, the authority to extend by two six-month periods the arbitrary 30 month time limit the bill imposes on permit approval.
10:34:02 A.M.	H.R. 4402	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 726, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Hastings (FL) amendment No. 2.
10:42:23 A.M.	H.R. 4402	POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Hastings (FL) amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Hastings (FL) demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.
10:43:02 A.M.	H.R. 4402	An amendment, offered by Mr. Markey, numbered 3 printed in House Report 112-590 to require a royalty payment of 12.5% of the value of hardrock minerals mined on federal lands. Revenue generated by the royalty payment would be dedicated to cleaning up abandoned hardrock mines.
10:43:04 A.M.	H.R. 4402	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 726, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Markey amendment No. 3.
10:54:26 A.M.	H.R. 4402	POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Markey amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Markey demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.
10:54:58 A.M.	H.R. 4402	An amendment, offered by Mr. Young (AK), numbered 4 printed in House Report 112-590 to allow the lead agency, as established under this bill, to exempt existing Mineral Prescriptions for strategic and critical materials within federally administered national forests from the procedures detailed at and all rules promulgated under part 294 of title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations. In addition, the amendment would extend this exemption to areas integral to access of the Mineral Prescriptions, and the construction, operation, maintenance, and restoration of any existing Mineral Prescriptions.
10:55:00 A.M.	H.R. 4402	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 726, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Young (AK) amendment No. 4.
11:06:39 A.M.	H.R. 4402	POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Young (AK) amendment, Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Holt demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.
11:07:27 A.M.	H.R. 4402	An amendment, offered by Mr. Cravaack, numbered 5 printed in House Report 112-590 to allow projects that have already applied for a permit access to the new expedited process under the bill.
11:07:55 A.M.	H.R. 4402	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 726, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Cravaack amendment No. 5.
11:17:23 A.M.	H.R. 4402	On agreeing to the Cravaack amendment; Agreed to by voice vote.
11:18:17 A.M.	H.R. 4402	An amendment, offered by Mr. Hastings (FL), numbered 6 printed in House Report 112-590 to create an exception for non-profit entities and individuals from the outright elimination (found in Section 205 of H.R. 4402) of the shifting of attorneys fees pursuant to the Equal Access to Justice Act.
11:18:24 A.M.	H.R. 4402	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 726, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Hastings (FL) amendment No. 6.
11:25:07 A.M.	H.R. 4402	On agreeing to the Hastings (FL) amendment; Failed by voice vote.
11:26:06 A.M.	H.R. 4402	An amendment, offered by Mr. Grijalva, numbered 7 printed in House Report 112-590 to exempt from the bill any mineral exploration or mining permit a lead agency determines would diminish opportunities for hunting, fishing, grazing, or recreation on public lands. By protecting the status of hunting, fishing, grazing and other recreational uses on federal lands, the amendment will guarantee that the multiple use mandate for federal lands is not compromised by the underlying bill.
11:26:12 A.M.	H.R. 4402	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 726, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Grijalva amendment No. 7.
11:34:54 A.M.	H.R. 4402	POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Grijalva amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Grijalva demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.
11:35:05 A.M.	H.R. 4402	UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question of adoption of amendments which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.
11:59:15 A.M.	H.R. 4402	On agreeing to the Tonko amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 162 – 251 (Roll no. 462).
12:04:14 P.M.	H.R. 4402	On agreeing to the Hastings (FL) amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 162 – 252 (Roll no. 463).
12:08:41 P.M.	H.R. 4402	On agreeing to the Markey amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 163 – 253 (Roll no. 464).
12:12:35 P.M.	H.R. 4402	On agreeing to the Young (AK) amendment; Agreed to by recorded vote: 238 – 178 (Roll no. 465).
12:15:56 P.M.	H.R. 4402	On agreeing to the Grijalva amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 167 – 248 (Roll no. 466).
12:16:29 P.M.	H.R. 4402	The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 4402.
12:17:00 P.M.	H.R. 4402	The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.
12:17:10 P.M.	H.R. 4402	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.
12:18:07 P.M.	H.R. 4402	Ms. Slaughter moved to recommit with instructions to Natural Resources.
12:18:56 P.M.	H.R. 4402	DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Slaughter 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 prohibiting the issuance of permits for mining to persons, corporations or their subsidiaries that have failed to pay any state or federal taxes. The motion also sought to add provisions to Federal mining permits prohibiting the export of strategic and critical minerals to China and Iran, and sought to require, to the extent practicable, that all mining equipment used under mining permits be made in America and to prohibit the holder of the permit from outsourcing American jobs.
12:25:42 P.M.		The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate passed H.R. 4155 and H.R. 3001.
12:25:43 P.M.	H.R. 4402	DEBATE – The House continued with debate on the Slaughter motion to recommit with instructions.
12:27:39 P.M.	H.R. 4402	The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.
12:44:51 P.M.	H.R. 4402	On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 181 – 231 (Roll no. 467).
12:51:39 P.M.	H.R. 4402	On passage Passed by recorded vote: 256 – 160 (Roll no. 468).
12:51:40 P.M.	H.R. 4402	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
12:54:25 P.M.		COLLOQUY ON UPCOMING HOUSE SCHEDULE – The Chair recognized Mr. Hoyer for the purpose of engaging Mr. Cantor in a colloquy on the schedule for the House during the upcoming week.
1:28:21 P.M.		Mr. Cantor asked unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 10:00 a.m. on July 13. Agreed to without objection.
1:28:56 P.M.		Mr. Cantor asked unanimous consent That, when the House adjourns on Friday, July 13, 2012, it adjourn to meet at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 17, 2012, for Morning-Hour Debate. Agreed to without objection.
1:29:33 P.M.		ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded further with one minute speeches.
1:31:46 P.M.		SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.
1:55:00 P.M.		Mr. Gohmert moved that the House do now adjourn.
1:55:20 P.M.		On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.
1:55:35 P.M.		The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on July 13, 2012.