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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

it’s Wednesday -Congress meets


The Senate Convened at 9:30amET July 27, 2011

  • The Senate will convene at 9:30am on Wednesday, July 27, 2011. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in morning business for one hour with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each, with the time equally divided and controlled between the two Leaders or their designees with the Republicans controlling the first half and the Majority controlling the final half.
  • Morning business has been extended until 2pm.

VOTES

4:03pm The Senate began a roll call vote on confirmation of the nomination of Robert Mueller to be Director of the FBI; confirmed: 100-0

By unanimous consent, the Senate confirmed Gary Locke, of Washington, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the People’s Republic of China.

Senator Rockefeller asked unanimous consent the Senate pass H.R.2533 with a Rockefeller-Hutchison amendment, which is at the desk and is a clean extension of the Federal Aviation Administration. Senator Hatch objected to Senator Rockefeller’s request.

Senator Hatch then asked unanimous consent the Senate pass H.R.2533, as passed by the House, which includes policy riders. Senator Rockefeller objected to Senator Hatch’s request.

The Senate is in a period of morning business until 6:30pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each. Senator Coburn will be recognized at 5:30pm for up to 30 minutes and Senator Boxer will be recognized following Senator Coburn for up to 20 minutes

WRAP UP

Confirmed Executive Calendar #194, Gary Locke, of Washington, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the People’s Republic of China.

Confirmed Executive Calendar #196, William J. Burns to be Deputy Secretary of State

Discharged Homeland Security and Passed S.1188, a bill to require the purchase of domestically made flags of the United States of American for use by the Federal Government (All American Flag Act) w/ Brown (OH) substitute

Adopted S.Res.240, condemning the horrific attacks on government buildings in Oslo, Norway, and a youth camp on Utoya Island, Norway, on July 22, 2011 and for other purposes.

Adopted S.Con.Res.26, supporting the goals and ideals of the designation of the year of 2011 as the International Year for People of African Descent.

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  CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF JULY 27, 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 

9:57 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Broun (GA) amendment under the five-minute rule.Amendment offered by Mr. Broun (GA).

9:56 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Walberg amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Walberg demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

9:16 P.M. – The House resolved into Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for further consideration.Considered as unfinished business.

9:15 P.M. – Mr. Dreier filed a report from the Committee on Rules onH. Res. 375.

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 

9:14 P.M. – Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union rises leavingH.R. 2584as unfinished business.On motion that the Committee rise Agreed to by voice vote.

Mr. Simpson moved that the Committee rise.

8:55 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Walberg amendment under the five-minute rule.Amendment offered by Mr. Walberg.

An amendment to reduce funding for the National Endowment for the Arts, grants and administration by $10,600,000 and apply the savings to the spending reduction account.

8:53 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Broun (GA) amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Broun (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.

8:39 P.M. – DEBATE – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Broun (GA) amendment under the five-minute rule.Amendment offered by Mr. Broun (GA).

An amendment numbered 14 printed in the Congressional Record to decrease Smithsonian salaries and expenses by $55,624,000 and transfer the funds to the spending reduction account.

8:38 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Lankford amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Lankford demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

8:19 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Lankford amendment under the five-minute rule.Amendment offered by Mr. Lankford.

An amendment to eliminate funding for reception and representation expenses for the Council on Environmental Quality. The amendment transfers the funds, $3 million, to the spending reduction account.

8:14 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Gosar amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Gosar demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

8:06 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Gosar amendment under the five-minute rule.Amendment offered by Mr. Gosar.

An amendment to increase the National Forest System/Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration program by $10 million.

On agreeing to the Hanabusa amendment Failed by voice vote.

7:59 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Hanabusa amendment under the five-minute rule.Amendment offered by Ms. Hanabusa.

An amendment to redirect $50,000,000 from the state and private forestry to the Wildland Fire Management program.

On agreeing to the Broun (GA) amendment Failed by voice vote.

7:58 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Broun (GA) amendment No. 18 under the five-minute rule.

7:57 P.M. – Amendment offered by Mr. Broun (GA).

An amendment to decrease FS State and Private Forestry by $20.8 million.

7:53 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Lankford amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Lankford demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

7:49 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Lankford amendment under the five-minute rule.Amendment offered by Mr. Lankford.

An amendment to strike “not less that 30 percent” and insert “30 percent or less”.

7:47 P.M. – Mr. Simpson raised a point of order against the Bishop (NY) amendment stating that the provisions of the amendment proposes a net increase of the bill. The Chair sustained the point of order.

7:41 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Bishop (NY) amendment under the five-minute rule, pending reservation of a point of order.Amendment offered by Mr. Bishop (NY).

An amendment to increase funds for the State and Tribal Assistance Grants program.

7:17 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Richardson 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.

7:12 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Richardson amendment under the five-minute rule.Amendment offered by Ms. Richardson.

An amendment to increase funding for state pollution control and prevention grants by $5 million. The increase is offset by reducing funding for Capitol Improvement and Maintenance fund by the same amount.

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

6:57 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Blackburn amendment under the five-minute rule.Amendment offered by Mrs. Blackburn.

An amendment to reduce the State and Tribal Assistance Grants account by $30 million an applies the savings to the spending reduction account.

6:55 P.M. – On agreeing to the Richardson amendment Failed by recorded vote:(Roll No. 662).

6:48 P.M. – On agreeing to the Pompeo amendment Agreed to by recorded vote:(Roll No. 661).

6:42 P.M. – On agreeing to the LaTourette amendments Agreed to by recorded vote:(Roll No. 660).

6:35 P.M. – On agreeing to the Dicks amendment Failed by recorded vote:(Roll No. 659).

6:28 P.M. – On agreeing to the Dicks amendment Failed by recorded vote:(Roll No. 658).

6:04 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.POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Richardson amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Ms. Richardson demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendments until a time to be announced.

5:56 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Richardson amendment No. 23 under the five-minute rule.

5:55 P.M. – Amendment offered by Ms. Richardson.

An amendment numbered 23 printed in the Congressional Record to reduce the Buildings and Facilities account by $10 million and increase the State and Tribal Assistance Grants account by $10 million.

5:54 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Pompeo amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Pompeo demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendments until a time to be announced.

5:46 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Pompeo amendment No. 39 under the five-minute rule.

5:44 P.M. – Amendment offered by Mr. Pompeo.

An amendment numbered 39 printed in the Congressional Record to reduce the Environmental Programs and Management account by $6,246,000 and applies the savings to the spending reduction account.

5:43 P.M. – On agreeing to the Fleming amendment Failed by voice vote.

5:33 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Flemming amendment under the five-minute rule.

5:31 P.M. – Amendment offered by Mr. Fleming.

An amendment to reduce the Environmental Programs and Management account by $48,206,000 and applies the savings to the spending reduction account.

5:03 P.M. – Mr. Simpson raised a point of order against the Johnson, E. B. amendment Mr. Simpson stated that the provisions appropriate funds for a program not authorized. The Chair sustained the point of order.

5:00 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the E.B. Johnson(TX) amendment under the five-minute rule, pending reservation of a point of order.Amendment offered by Ms. Johnson, E. B..

An amendment that inserts “and fellowships” after development within the Science and Technology account.

4:58 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the LaTourette en bloc amendments, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendments and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. LaTourette demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendments until a time to be announced.

4:40 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the LaTourette En Bloc amendments under the five-minute rule.Amendments en bloc offered by Mr. LaTourette.

An amendment comprised of several amendments offered en bloc: reduce the Science and Technology account by $20 million and increase the Environmental Programs and Management account by $13 million, increase the funding for the Geographic Programs by $50 million and increase the funding for the Great Lakes Initiative by $50 million.

4:38 P.M. – On agreeing to the Moran amendment Failed by voice vote.

4:04 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. Res. 363, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Moran amendment under the five-minute rule.

4:03 P.M. – Amendment offered by Mr. Moran.

An amendment to strike the Wild Lands Funding Prohibition account from the bill.

4:02 P.M. – On agreeing to the Dicks amendment Failed by voice vote.

3:34 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. 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 section 121 of the bill.

3:33 P.M. – On agreeing to the Dicks amendment Failed by voice vote.

3:23 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. 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 section 120 from the bill.

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

3:02 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. 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 section 119 from the bill.

3:01 P.M. – On agreeing to the Dicks amendment Failed by voice vote.

2:53 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. 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 section 118 from the bill.

2:46 P.M. – POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Dicks amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Dicks demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.

2:09 P.M. – DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions ofH. 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 section 116 of the bill.

2:05 P.M. – On agreeing to the Scalise amendment as modified Agreed to by recorded vote:(Roll No. 657).

2:01 P.M. – On agreeing to the Reed amendment Agreed to by recorded vote:(Roll No. 656).

1:55 P.M. – On agreeing to the Dold amendment Failed by recorded vote:(Roll No. 655).

1:52 P.M. – On agreeing to the Amash amendment Failed by recorded vote:(Roll No. 654).

1:47 P.M. – On agreeing to the Tonko amendment Failed by recorded vote:(Roll No. 653).

1:44 P.M. – On agreeing to the Dicks amendment Agreed to by recorded vote:(Roll No. 652).

1:39 P.M. – On agreeing to the Clarke (MI) amendment Failed by recorded vote:(Roll No. 651).

1:15 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.The House resolved into Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for further consideration.

Considered as unfinished business.

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 27.

1:12 P.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.

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 

1:11 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.

12:33 P.M. – DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate onH.R. 440.Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until later in the legislative day.

12:09 P.M. – ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House resumed one minute speeches.

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 

Senate returned papers to House.

The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate passedS. 1406andS. 846. The Senate also agreed to return the papers ofH.R. 1309.

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 Mr. Sires 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 Reverend Rick Postell, Christian Renewal Church, Brunswick, Georgia.

12:00 P.M. – The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 27.

11:08 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 Kenny Marchant 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: Are they working for ALL Americans ? the Republican led House -the Senate


the Senate Convenes at 2pmET July 18, 2011

  • Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in morning business until 3:30pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.
  • Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R.2055, the Military Construction, Veterans’ Affairs and related agencies Appropriations bill.
  • At 5:00pm, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to consider Calendar #82, the nomination of J. Paul Oetken, of New York, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of New York with 30 minutes of debate equally divided between Senators Leahy and Grassley.
  • Upon the use or yielding of time (at approximately 5:30pm), the Senate will conduct a roll call vote on confirmation of the Oetken nomination.

             The pending Johnson-Kirk amendment #556 (report on Arlington National Cemetery) to H.R.2055, the Military Construction, Veterans’ Affairs and related agencies Appropriations bill has been modified. The modification provides for additional Senate and House committees to receive the report.

  • At approximately 5:30pm, the Senate will conduct a roll call vote on confirmation of the nomination of J. Paul Oetken, of New York, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of New York.

VOTES

5:32pm The Senate began a roll call vote on confirmation of the nomination of J.Paul Oetken to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of New York; Confirmed: 80-13

&

Adopted S.Con.Res.25, welcoming the independence of the Republic of South Sudan, congratulating the people of South Sudan for freely and peacefully expressing their will through an internationally accepted referendum, and calling on the Governments and people of Sudan and South Sudan to peacefully resolve outstanding issues including the final status of Abyei.

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The next meeting in the House is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. on July 18, 2011.

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF JULY 18, 2011
112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

 

7:36 P.M. – SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House resumed with special order speeches.

7:35 P.M. – Mr. Woodall filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 355.

7:06 P.M. – SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.

7:05 P.M. – ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches.

7:04 P.M. – On approving the Journal Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 244 – 56, 1 Present (Roll no. 602).

H.R. 33:
to amend the Securities Act of 1933 to specify when certain securities issued in connection with church plans are treated as exempted securities for purposes of that Act 

6:57 P.M. – Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 310 – 1 (Roll no. 601).

6:30 P.M. – Considered as unfinished business.UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was on the motion to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 33which had been debated earlier as well as the Speaker’s approval of the Journal on which further proceedings had been postponed.

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 18.

5:07 P.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 6:30 P.M. today.

H.R. 33:
to amend the Securities Act of 1933 to specify when certain securities issued in connection with church plans are treated as exempted securities for purposes of that Act 

5:06 P.M. – At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.

5:03 P.M. – DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 33.Considered under suspension of the rules.

5:02 P.M. – Mrs. Biggert moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

5:01 P.M. – The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until 6:30 p.m. today.

5:00 P.M. – The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 18.

2:11 P.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.

2:03 P.M. – ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches.

2:02 P.M. – PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Wilson of SC to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS ON APPROVAL OF THE JOURNAL – The Chair announced that he had examined the Journal of the last day’s proceedings and had approved it. Mr. Nugent demanded that the question be put on agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal and by voice vote, the Chair announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Nugent objected to the voice vote based upon the absence of a quorum and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of agreeing to the approval of the Journal until later in the legislative day. The point of no quorum was considered as withdrawn.

2:00 P.M. – Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of July 18.

12:01 P.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 2:00 P.M. today.

12:00 P.M. – MORNING-HOUR DEBATE – The House proceeded with Morning-Hour Debate. At the conclusion of Morning-Hour, the House will recess until 2:00p.m. for the start of legislative business.The Speaker designated the Honorable Michael K. Simpson to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

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what’s going on in Congress …Republican led House eliminates FHA


CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF MARCH 11, 2011

112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

3:38 P.M. –

The Speaker announced that the House do now adjourn. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. on March 14, 2011.

3:37 P.M. –

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 11.

3:02 P.M. –

The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.

3:01 P.M. –

The House received a communication from Darrell E. Issa, Chairman, Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. On March 3, 2011, Chairman Issa had notified the House formally, pursuant to Rule VIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives, that the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform had been served with a subpoena for documents issued by the United States District Court for the District of Columbia in a case pending before that Court. The notification referenced the pending case as a civil case, but was in fact a criminal case.

2:06 P.M. –

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

1:05 P.M. –

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

Mr. Cantor asked unanimous consent That when the House adjourns on Friday, March 11, 2011, it adjourn to meet at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, March 14, 2011, for Morning-Hour Debate. Agreed to without objection.

H.R. 836:

to rescind the unobligated funding for the Emergency Mortgage Relief Program and to terminate the program

12:33 P.M. –

The Clerk was authorized to correct section numbers, punctuation, and cross references, and to make other necessary technical and conforming corrections in the engrossment of H.R. 830.

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

12:32 P.M. –

On passage Passed by recorded vote: 242 – 177 (Roll no. 174).

12:26 P.M. –

On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by recorded vote: 182 – 238 (Roll no. 173).

12:10 P.M. –

The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.

11:57 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the motion to recommit with instructions. The instructions contained in the motion seek to require the bill to be reported back to the House with amendments which provide a continuation of the provisions of the program for military veteran homeowners.

11:56 A.M. –

Mr. Connolly (VA) moved to recommit with instructions to Financial Services.

Mr. Connolly (VA) moved to recommit the bill, H.R. 836, to the Committee on Financial Services with instructions to report the same back to the House forthwith with the following amendment: ¢ In section 3(b), before “shall continue” insert the foloowing: “, and an y amounts made available for use under such Program pursuant to subsection (d),”. ***

11:55 A.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.

The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.

11:54 A.M. –

The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 836.

On agreeing to the Waters amendment Failed by recorded vote: 185 – 237 (Roll no. 172).

11:32 A.M. –

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

11:24 A.M. –

Mr. Hensarling raised a point of order against the Sanchez, Loretta amendment Mr. Hensarling stated that the provisions of the amendment exceed the scope of the bill and the amendment is therefore,not germane. The Chair sustained the point of order.

11:19 A.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 151, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Loretta Sanchez amendment number 7 under the five-minute rule, pending the reservation of a point of order.

Amendment offered by Ms. Sanchez, Loretta.

An amendment numbered 7 printed in the Congressional Record to provide that the bill take effect on the first date occurring after enactment on which the Current Population Survey of the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the Labor Department, as released monthly, identifies that the unemployment rate for the United States is equal to 7.5% or less.

11:18 A.M. –

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

10:49 A.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 151, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Waters amendment number 4 under the five-minute rule.

Amendment offered by Ms. Waters.

An amendment numbered 4 printed in the Congressional Record to direct Housing and Urban Development Department to publish on its website, no later than five days after the bill’s enactment, to “contact your Member of Congress for assistance.”

10:48 A.M. –

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

10:46 A.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 151, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Neugebauer amendment number 3 under the five-minute rule.

10:45 A.M. –

Amendment offered by Mr. Neugebauer.

An amendment numbered 3 printed in the Congressional Record to include m ilitary servicemembers and veterans who have service-related injuries, as well as survivors and dependents of such individuals, in a study on use of the Emergency Mortgage Relief Program.

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

10:26 A.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 151, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Canseco amendment number 5 under the five-minute rule.

Amendment offered by Mr. Canseco.

An amendment numbered 5 printed in the Congressional Record to provide that all unexpended balances rescinded and permanently canceled by the Emergency Mortgage Relief Program’s termination be retained in the General Fund of the Treasury for reducing the federal government debt.

9:13 A.M. –

GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 836.

The Speaker designated the Honorable Lynn A. Westmoreland 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. 151 and Rule XVIII.

Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 836 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 read by section. Specified amendments are in order. It shall be in order to consider as an original bill for the purpose of amendment under the five-minute rule the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Financial Services now printed in the bill.

Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 151.

9:02 A.M. –

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

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

9:01 A.M. –

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

9:00 A.M. –

Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Daniel Coughlin.

The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

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

The Senate will Convene on March 14, 2011 at  2:00pm

Following any Leader remarks, there will be a period of 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 nomination of calendar #10, the nomination of James Boasber, of the District of Columbia, to be U.S. District Judge for the District of Columbia. There will be up to 1 hour for debate equally divided prior to a vote on the nomination.

Votes:

Senators should expect 2 roll call votes at 5:30pm in relation to the following items:

– Confirmation of the nomination of James Boasber, of the District of Columbia, to be U.S. District Judge for the District of Columbia, and

– Cloture on the motion to proceed to S.493, SBIR and STTR Reauthorization Act of 2011.

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…Larry Buhl article about moving ahead in your career


Six Soft Skills Everyone Needs

More Than Technical Qualifications Needed to Move Ahead in Your Career

By Larry Buhl, for Yahoo! HotJobs

In a 2008 survey of more than 2,000 businesses in the state of Washington, employers said entry-level workers in a variety of professions were lacking in several areas, including problem solving, conflict resolution and critical observation.

You’ll likely see these “soft skills” popping up in job descriptions, next to demands for technical qualifications. Employment experts agree that tech skills may get you an interview, but these soft skills will get you the job — and help you keep it:

Communication Skills

This doesn’t mean you have to be a brilliant orator or writer. It does mean you have to express yourself well, whether it’s writing a coherent memo, persuading others with a presentation or just being able to calmly explain to a team member what you need.

Teamwork and Collaboration

Employers want employees who play well with others — who can effectively work as part of a team. “That means sometimes being a leader, sometimes being a good follower, monitoring the progress, meeting deadlines and working with others across the organization to achieve a common goal,” says Lynne Sarikas, the MBA Career Center Director at Northeastern University.

Adaptability

This is especially important for more-seasoned professionals to demonstrate, to counter the (often erroneous) opinion that older workers are too set in their ways. “To succeed in most organizations, you need to have a passion for learning and the ability to continue to grow and stretch your skills to adapt to the changing needs of the organization,” Sarikas says. “On your resume, on your cover letter and in your interview, explain the ways you’ve continued to learn and grow throughout your career.”

Problem Solving

Be prepared for the “how did you solve a problem?” interview question with several examples, advises Ann Spoor, managing director of Cave Creek Partners. “Think of specific examples where you solved a tough business problem or participated in the solution. Be able to explain what you did, how you approached the problem, how you involved others and what the outcome was — in real, measurable results.”

Critical Observation

It’s not enough to be able to collect data and manipulate it. You must also be able to analyze and interpret it. What story does the data tell? What questions are raised? Are there different ways to interpret the data? “Instead of handing your boss a spreadsheet, give them a business summary and highlight the key areas for attention, and suggest possible next steps,” Sarikas advises.

Conflict Resolution

The ability to persuade, negotiate and resolve conflicts is crucial if you plan to move up. “You need to have the skill to develop mutually beneficial relationships in the organization so you can influence and persuade people,” Sarikas says. “You need to be able to negotiate win-win solutions to serve the best interests of the company and the individuals involved.”

When It Comes to Soft Skills, Show — Don’t Tell

How do you prove you’re proficient at, say, critical observation? Demonstrating these soft skills may be more difficult than listing concrete accomplishments like $2 million in sales or a professional certification. But it is possible to persuade hiring managers that you have what they need.

To demonstrate communication skills, for example, start with the obvious. Make sure there are no typos in your resume or cover letter. Beyond that, enhance your communication credibility by writing an accomplishment statement on your resume or cover letter, says Cheryl E. Palmer, president of Call to Career. “Instead of stating, ‘great oral and written communication skills,’ say, ‘conducted presentation for C-level executives that persuaded them to open a new line of business that became profitable within eight months.'”

Learn Soft Skills

The good news is that, like any skill, soft skills can be learned. The better news? Boosting your soft skills can not only give you a leg up on a new job or a promotion — but these skills also have obvious applications in all areas of a person’s life, both professional and personal.

Take a Course: Some colleges are mixing technology with areas such as effective written and verbal communication, teamwork, cultural understanding and psychology. Take a writing or public speaking course to boost your communication skills. Look for a conflict-resolution course or “leadership skills” class at your local community college.

Seek Mentors: Be as specific as you can about your target skill, and when you’re approaching a potential mentor, compliment that person with a specific example in which you’ve seen him practice that skill, advises Ed Muzio, the author of Make Work Great. “Then ask whether that person would be willing to share ideas with you about how you might achieve the same level of capability,” he says. “Maybe it will grow into a long mentoring relationship, or maybe you’ll just pick the person’s brain for a few minutes.”

Volunteer: Working with nonprofit organizations gives you the opportunity to build soft skills. And listing high-profile volunteer work on your resume gives you an excuse to point out what you gained there. For example, “As chair of the environmental committee, planned and carried out a citywide park cleanup campaign. Utilized team-building, decision-making and cooperative skills. Extensive report writing and public speaking.”