Tag Archives: Republican

Congress: the Republican led House – the Senate considers: S.1813, the Surface Transportation bill


  • the Senate Convened at  9:30amET Feburary 9, 2012
  • Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in morning business 11:00am with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each with the Majority controlling the first half and the Republicans controlling the final half.
  • Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of the motion to proceed to S.1813, the Surface Transportation bill.
  • At approximately 2:00pm, there will be a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.1813.

At 2pm today, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.1813, a bill to reauthorize Federal-aid highway and highway safety construction programs, and for other purposes.

The Senate has reached an agreement that results in 2 roll call votes at 2pm. Per the agreement at 1:30pm today, there will be 30 minutes for debate on the nomination of Cathy Ann Bencivengo, of California, to be US District Judge for the Southern District of California. Upon the use or yielding back of time, the Senate will proceed to vote on confirmation of the nomination. Upon disposition of the nomination, the Senate will resume legislative session and proceed to the cloture vote on the motion to proceed to the infrastructure bill.

The 2pm votes are as follows:

–          Confirmation of Calendar #407, Cathy Ann Bencivengo, of California, to be US District Judge for the Southern District of California; and

–          Cloture on the motion to proceed to S.1813, a bill to reauthorize Federal-aid highway and highway safety construction programs, and for other purposes.

2:00pm The Senate began a roll call vote on confirmation of the nomination of Cathy Ann Bencivengo, of California, to be United States Judge for the Southern District of California; Confirmed: 90-6

2:25pm The Senate began a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.1813, the Surface Transportation bill; Invoked: 85-11

There will be no further roll call votes this week.

WRAP UP

ROLL CALL VOTES

1)      Confirmation of Cathy Ann Bencivengo, of CA, to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of California; Confirmed: 90-6

2)      Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.1813, the Surface Transportation bill; Invoked: 85-11

LEGISLATIVE ITEMS

Adopted S.Res.371, designating the week of February 6 through 10, 2012, as “National School Counseling Week”.

Completed the Rule 14 process of S.2079, a bill to extend the pay limitation for Members of Congress and Federal employees (Heller).

No EXECUTIVE ITEMS

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF FEBRUARY  9, 2012

112TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION 

Today … on the House Flr

HR3630 – a bill -Temporary Payroll Tax Cut Continuation Act of 2011 – Passes 405 – 15

S.2038 – a bill – To prohibit Members of Congress and employees of Congress from using nonpublic information derived from their official positions for personal benefit, and for other purposes: #StockAct Passes 417 – 2  insider trading

-SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.11:23:30 A.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House continued with further one minute speeches.11:23:15 A.M. -Mr. Cantor asked unanimous consent That, when the House adjourns on Thursday, February 9, 2012, it adjourn to meet at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, February 13, 2012. Agreed to without objection.10:45:00 A.M. -COLLOQUY ON HOUSE SCHEDULE – The Chair recognized Mr. Hoyer for the purpose of engaging in a colloquy with Mr. Cantor on the expectations regarding the legislative schedule for the House during the upcoming week.10:43:15 A.M. –H. Con. Res. 99Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.10:43:10 A.M. -H. Con. Res. 99On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.10:43:09 A.M. -H. Con. Res. 99Considered by unanimous consent. H. Con. Res. 99 — “Authorizing the use of Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center for a ceremony to unveil the marker which acknowledges the role that slave labor played in the construction of the United States Capitol.”10:43:07 A.M. -H. Con. Res. 99Mr. Lungren, Daniel E. asked unanimous consent to discharge from committee and consider.10:42:57 A.M. -H.R. 3630Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.10:42:56 A.M. -H.R. 3630On motion that the House instruct conferees Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 405 – 15 (Roll no. 48).10:35:00 A.M. -UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question of adoption of the Bishop (NY) motion to instruct conferees to H.R. 3630, which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.10:34:10 A.M. -S. 2038Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.10:34:09 A.M. -S. 2038On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 417 – 2 (Roll no. 47).9:13:37 A.M. -S. 2038DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 2038.9:13:34 A.M. -S. 2038Considered under suspension of the rules.9:13:18 A.M. -S. 2038Mr. Smith (TX) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. S. 2038 — “To prohibit Members of Congress and employees of Congress from using nonpublic information derived from their official positions for personal benefit, and for other purposes.”9:12:50 A.M. -The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until later in the legislative day.9:02:32 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.9:02:03 A.M. -PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Lankford to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.9:01:58 A.M. -The Speaker announced approval of the Journal.  Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.9:00:48 A.M. -Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.9:00:37 A.M. -The Speaker designated the Honorable Shelley Moore Capito to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.9:00:25 A.M. -The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

Tell Congress: Protect Unemployment Insurance for Millions of Americans … Joan Entmacher, National Women’s Law Center


National Women's Law Center
Continue Federal Unemployment Insurance Benefits through 2012
Tell Congress: Millions of workers will lose federal unemployment insurance at the end of February unless you act now!
Take Action

They’re at it again. I’m sure you remember the feverish news cycle — federal unemployment insurance (UI) benefits were set to expire right before the holidays in December. House Republicans passed a bill that would slash the UI safety net (and more). At the last minute, Congress agreed to continue federal UI benefits for two months. But that extension expires in less than a month. We need your help to prevent millions of unemployed workers from losing the lifeline of UI benefits.

Tell Congress: Fully Renew Unemployment Insurance for 2012 — no cuts, no barriers to benefits!

     WWW.NWLC.ORG

The House Republican leadership is still pushing to dismantle UI, with drastic benefit cuts and new barriers that would prevent many jobless workers from accessing these vital benefits.

If we don’t act now to ask for a ‘clean’ renewal of federal UI benefits, harsh cuts and punitive barriers to benefits could be tacked on to the bill. The bill passed by House Republicans in December called for slashing benefits by more than half in states with the highest unemployment, denying benefits for workers without a high school diploma or GED, drug testing applicants for UI benefits, making jobless workers pay for their reemployment services, and allowing states to divert unemployment benefit funds to uses other than paying worker benefits.

With unemployment expected to remain above 8 percent this year and long-term unemployment still at record highs, Congress must continue federal UI benefits through 2012. Tell Congress to do right by millions of Americans struggling to get back on their feet!

Don’t let it get down to the wire again — ask your Members of Congress TODAY to pass a clean UI extension with no cuts or barriers to benefits!

WWW.NWLC.ORG

Thank you for all that you do to help us protect women and their families. Millions of Americans depend on these benefits, and we will keep you updated as the deadline draws closer.

Sincerely,

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

P.S. You can find out more about the importance of federal UI benefits to women here and the latest on how women are faring in the recovery here.

Congress: the Republican led House – the Senate


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the Senate Convened at 10amET February 7, 2012

    • Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in morning business until 12:30pm 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 30 minutes and the Majority controlling the second 30 minutes.
    • The Senate will recess from 12:30pm to 2:15pm to allow for the weekly caucus meetings.
    • We hope to begin consideration of S.1525, the surface transportation bill during Tuesday’s session of the Senate.

Morning business has been extended until 7:00pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each with the Republicans controlling the time from 4:00-5:00pm and the Majority controlling the time from 5:00-6:00pm

During Tuesday’s session of the Senate, cloture was filed on the motion to proceed to Calendar #311, S.1813, the Surface Transportation bill.

By unanimous consent, there will be a vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.1813 at 2:00pm on Thursday, February 9, 2012.

WRAP UP

No ROLL CALL VOTES

 

LEGISLATIVE ITEMS

Adopted S.Res.369, congratulating the New York Giants for winning Super Bowl XLVI.

Began the Rule 14 process of S.2079, a bill to extend the pay limitation for Members of Congress and Federal employees (Heller).

EXECUTIVE ITEMS

Confirmed Calendar #545, Colonel Bradley D. Spacy to Brigadier General in the Air Force.

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF FEBRUARY  7, 2012

112TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION

— -SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.4:46:17 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.4:45:33 P.M. -H.R. 2606Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.4:45:29 P.M. -H.R. 2606On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.4:44:57 P.M. -H.R. 2606Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 2606 — “To authorize the Secretary of the Interior to allow the construction and operation of natural gas pipeline facilities in the Gateway National Recreation Area, and for other purposes.”4:44:44 P.M. -UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question of adoption of a motion to suspend the rules which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.4:44:43 P.M. -NOTICE OF INTENT TO OFFER MOTION – Mr. Bishop (NY) notified the House of his intent to offer a motion to instruct conferees on H.R. 3630. The Chair announced that the text of the proposed motion would be printed in the Congressional Record of today.4:43:42 P.M. -Mr. Woodall filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 540.4:43:25 P.M. -H.R. 3581Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.4:43:24 P.M. -H.R. 3581On passage Passed by recorded vote: 245 – 180 (Roll no. 42).4:36:22 P.M. -H.R. 3581On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 190 – 238 (Roll no. 41).4:19:32 P.M. -H.R. 3581The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.4:14:03 P.M. -H.R. 3581DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Walz (MN) motion to recommit. The instructions contained in the motion seek to require the bill to be reported back to the House with an amendment to add a provision which would specify that the risk component for loans for students or veterans is zero.4:12:52 P.M. -H.R. 3581Mr. Walz (MN) moved to recommit with instructions to The Budget.4:12:17 P.M. -H.R. 3581The 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.4:12:02 P.M. -H.R. 3581The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.4:11:10 P.M. -H.R. 3581The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 3581.4:10:54 P.M. -H.R. 3581On agreeing to the Tonko amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 187 – 238 (Roll no. 40).3:39:54 P.M. -H.R. 3581DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 539, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Tonko amendment No. 3.3:39:51 P.M. -H.R. 3581An amendment, offered by Mr. Tonko,  numbered 3 printed in House Report 112-388 to establish a Commission of budgeting and accounting experts to provide recommendations to Congress regarding the best measure to accurately account for the costs of Federal credit programs. The amendment also allows the Commission to delay and or supersede the provisions of the bill.3:39:44 P.M. -H.R. 3581By unanimous consent, the Dold amendment was withdrawn.3:35:56 P.M. -H.R. 3581DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 539, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Dold amendment No. 2.3:35:53 P.M. -H.R. 3581An amendment, offered by Mr. Dold,  numbered 2 printed in House Report 112-388 to require the OMB Director to prepare all budgets submitted to the President according to both accrual-basis and cash-basis GAAP accounting standards.3:34:47 P.M. -H.R. 3581The Chair announced its understanding that amendment numbered 1 printed in House Report 112-388 would not be offered.2:49:59 P.M. -H.R. 3581GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 3581.2:49:48 P.M. -H.R. 3581The Speaker designated the Honorable Candice S. Miller to act as Chairwoman of the Committee.2:49:47 P.M. -H.R. 3581House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 539 and Rule XVIII.2:49:05 P.M. -H.R. 3581Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 3581 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 the Budget 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 Rules Committee Print 112-13.2:49:00 P.M. -H.R. 3581Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 539. H.R. 3581 — “To amend the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 to increase transparency in Federal budgeting, and for other purposes.”2:48:35 P.M. -H. Res. 539Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.2:48:35 P.M. -H. Res. 539On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 239 – 181 (Roll no. 39).2:40:08 P.M. -H. Res. 539Considered as unfinished business. H. Res. 539 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 3581) to amend the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 to increase transparency in Federal budgeting, and for other purposes.”2:40:00 P.M. -UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question of adoption of H. Res. 539 which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.2:39:38 P.M. -H.R. 1734Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.2:39:36 P.M. -H.R. 1734On passage Passed by recorded vote: 259 – 164 (Roll no. 38).2:31:59 P.M. -H.R. 1734On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by recorded vote: 186 – 238 (Roll no. 37).2:12:55 P.M. -H.R. 1734The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.2:05:06 P.M. -H.R. 1734DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Michaud motion to recommit. The instructions contained in the motion seek to require the bill to be reported back to the House with an amendment to add a provision which states “Properties owned by the Department of Veterans Affairs or other properties used in connection with providing services for veterans, including hospitals, clinics, and facilities that provide job training, post traumatic stress disorder treatment, housing assistance, homeless services, and rehabilitative care.”.2:04:47 P.M. -H.R. 1734Mr. Michaud moved to recommit with instructions to Transportation.2:04:07 P.M. -H.R. 1734Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 1734 — “To decrease the deficit by realigning, consolidating, selling, disposing, and improving the efficiency of federal buildings and other civilian real property, and for other purposes.”2:03:27 P.M. -ADJUSTMENT OF WHOLE HOUSE – Under Clause 5(d) of Rule XX, the Chair announced to the House that, in light of the administration of the Oath of Office to the Gentlewoman from Oregon, the whole number of the House is 434.1:56:18 P.M. -OATH OF OFFICE – Representative-Elect Suzanne Bonamici, First District, State of Oregon, presented herself in the well of the House for the purpose of taking the Oath of Office which was administered by the Speaker of the House.1:54:57 P.M. -The House received a message from the Clerk. The Clerk transmitted to the House a facsimile copy of a letter received from Mr. Steve Trout, Director of Elections, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Oregon, indicating that, according to the unofficial returns of the Special Election held January 31, 2012, the Honorable Suzanne Bonamici was elected Representative to Congress for the First Congressional District, State of Oregon.1:53:49 P.M. -H.R. 1734POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – The Chair announced that further proceedings on H.R. 1734 would be postponed.1:53:14 P.M. -H.R. 1734The 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.1:53:04 P.M. -H.R. 1734The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.1:52:22 P.M. -H.R. 1734The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 1734.1:52:11 P.M. -H.R. 1734On agreeing to the Connolly (VA) amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 191 – 230 (Roll no. 36).1:26:01 P.M. -H.R. 1734UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was on the adoption of the Connolly (VA) amendment numbered 3 which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings were postponed.1:25:18 P.M. -H.R. 1734The House resolved into Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for further consideration.1:24:58 P.M. -H.R. 1734Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 1734 — “To decrease the deficit by realigning, consolidating, selling, disposing, and improving the efficiency of federal buildings and other civilian real property, and for other purposes.”1:24:20 P.M. -H. Res. 539POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on H. Res. 539, the Chair put the question on agreeing to the resolution and by voice vote announced that the yeas had prevailed. Mr. McGovern demanded the yeas and nays and further proceedings on the question of agreeing to the resolution were postponed.1:24:11 P.M. -H. Res. 539The previous question was ordered without objection.12:42:24 P.M. -H. Res. 539DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 539.12:39:40 P.M. -H. Res. 539Considered as privileged matter. H. Res. 539 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 3581) to amend the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 to increase transparency in Federal budgeting, and for other purposes.”12:05:23 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House continued with further one minute speeches, which by direction of the Chair would be limited to 15 per side of the aisle.12:05:17 P.M. -The House received a message from the Clerk. Pursuant to the permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II of the Rules of the U.S. House of Representatives, the Clerk notified the House that she had received a message from the Secretary of the Senate on February 7, 2012 at 10:40 a.m. stating that that body had passed H.R. 347 with an amendment and S. 1794.12:02:34 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches.12:02:15 P.M. -PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Turner of NY to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.12:02:13 P.M. -The Speaker announced approval of the Journal.  Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.12:00:25 P.M. -Today’s prayer was offered by Rabbi Jeffrey Astrachan, Temple Beth Israel, York, Pennsylvania.12:00:08 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of February 7.10:24:00 A.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 P.M. today.10:00:56 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 the legislative day.10:00:26 A.M. -The Speaker designated the Honorable Todd C. Young to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.10:00:11 A.M. -The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

wicked Wednesday weather &some News …


just another rant …

A call to action to those fighting for fair share … Stand UP and be counted

In a time when millions are unemployed, more layoffs coming and Corporate America is still outsourcing and holding jobs hostage. The Republican Party continues to cut slash and burn American Workers on the State and City levels. The party of No, which used to be just a conservative family values scary group, is now so extreme that the slogan “taking their country back”, is no longer code and the Teapublican base loves it. Obviously, it is about not wanting “his kind” in the White House. The notion that President Obama resembles any of those stupid adjectives Rience Priebus and his comrades use to describe President Obama belongs in a SNL sketch. While we all might want to laugh …reality check – our Democracy seems to be at risk.

What happened to the buyer’s remorse of 2010 and FYI  seniors cannot forget what Teapublicans have in mind for them … Vouchers and Privatization

Yes, Teapublicans want to Privatize Public Service Jobs, which includes Teachers, Fire Fighters, Police, while gutting Social Service programs that help the elderly, women, and children already suffering are now willing to take the basics away from the middle class. The fact is Teapublicans have successfully forced their ideology into our lives. The latest Teapublican mission accomplished, getting a conservative at the helm of a Woman’s health care Company for one let alone the power to shove Women off the health care resource cliff.  I wonder did she say one thing and do another because my memory of the old Komen for the cure would know that Women’s health care should be safe and affordable. The New Susan G Komen for the cure’s decision to dump or halt grants to Planned Parenthood has lost the support of many who have donated in the name of someone they love or because of the connection and knowledge, that women’s health care has to come from different resources. Yet, the New Komen for cure and the actions of Justice Roberts regarding Citizens United offer up a peak at how Teapublicans want us to live. I am upset and feel the New Komen for the cure has betrayed all who say Planned Parenthood saved their lives and it is obvious that Citizens United has upset the balance of fair play with unlimited amounts of cash being injected into campaigning …

My question to you is … Who do you blame for the chaos?

While the Democratic Party battles in Congress against attacks on the middle class. Teapublicans on the State level have managed to pass legislation against women, voter, children, and worker rights. I wonder what our neighborhoods will look after this nasty group is finished wreaking havoc on us all on the local level. We need to fight back on both the local and Federal level.  We all have to know that the more folks out of work the better the chances of less quality but more costly those services will be. Think separate but equal. I have to say, it is disturbing to see in the light of day how low the Party of NO is willing to go with deals made in the shadows.

The media and certain Politicians say that in times of crisis people separate into cliques. I say Teapublican Politicians and “the media” that engage them have been doing a great job in manipulating the information viewers hear or see. It is offensive but best believe no one should forget Boehner, Cantor, McConnell made a choice to play games with the lives of Americans instead of passing legislation that would get us back on track, disagree but a divided government is unacceptable.  I have to say the November Midterms was proof that manipulation works. These jerks used false info, anger and American gullibility to move their agenda forward, clearly a whole lot of Tea Party carpetbaggers said one thing and did another.

We all probably have family or know people who marched for civil and equal rights, felt compelled to be a part of that ideal of “strength in numbers” we all hear frequently that I consider important and speaks volumes when a change is near just over the horizon waiting to happen. This feeling of wanting a better way of life is spreading all over the world and while a couple of tyrants have seen the light others continue to participate in overt genocide, others shutdown access to the World outside and risk killing their own people. I get the feeling the Republican Tea Party is a lot like those folks in other countries currently doing all they can to either keep control or take anyone down that happens to be in the way. In our case, American voters are demanding fair share but the people with the power have gone rogue without thinking about what the full impact on the lives of the many will be or don’t care and have decided to take that risk and try to usurp the rights of Americans whether it’s done legally, by consensus or not.

We are all Freedom Fighters on some level every day.

in other news of the day …

1/31/12: White House Press Briefing

President Obama Speaks at Washington Auto Show

 President Announces New Housing Initiatives

Senate Committee Looks at Annual U.S. Threat Assessment

CBO Director Discusses Economic Outlook

Congress: the Reublican led House – the Senate debates&votes on amendments to S.2038,STOCK Act


the Senate Convenes: 9:30am ET February 1, 2012

  • 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 S.2038, the Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge (STOCK) Act.
  • We hope to have votes in relation to amendments to the STOCK Act during Wednesday’s session of the Senate.

The following amendments are pending to S.2038, the STOCK Act:

  • Reid #1470 (substitute)
  • Reid for Lieberman #1482 (technical)
  • Brown (OH) #1478 (10 day filing)
  • Toomey-McCaskill  #1472 (prohibit earmarks)
  • Brown (OH) #1481, as modified (divestiture)
  • Thune #1477 (SEC/solicitation)
  • McCain #1471 (prohibit bonuses for senior executives at Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac)
  • Leahy #1483 (anti-corruption)
  • Coburn #1473 (duplicative and overlapping government programs)
  • Coburn #1474 (legislation posted online 72 hours prior to a vote)
  • Coburn #1476 (substitute – Member certification)
  • Paul #1484 (Member certification)
  • Paul #1485 (apply reporting requirements to Federal employees and judicial officers)
  • Paul #1487 (Executive oversight)
  • DeMint #1488 (SoS Constitutional amendment limiting the number of terms Member of Congress may serve)
  • Paul #1490 (Member forfeiture Federal retirement benefits if he/she becomes a lobbyist)
  • Blumenthal #1498 (Member of Congress denied retirement benefits if he/she is convicted of a felony)
  • Shelby #1491 (extend reporting requirements to executive branch and independent agencies)

WRAP UP

No ROLL CALL VOTES

LEGISLATIVE ITEMS

Passed S.1296, A bill to revise the boundaries of John H. Chafee Coastal Barrier Resources System Sachuest Point Unit RI-04P, Easton Beach Unit RI-05P, Almy Pond Unit RI-06, and Hazards Beach Unit RI-07 in the State of Rhode Island.

Passed HR 588, To redesignate the Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge as the Sam D. Hamilton Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge.

Adopted S.Res.365, honoring the life of Kevin Hagan White, the Mayor of Boston, Massachusetts from 1968 to 1984.

Adopted S.Res 366, Honoring the life of dissident and democracy activist Wilman Villar Mendoza and condemning the Castro regime for the death of Wilman Villar Mendoza.

No EXECUTIVE ITEMS

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF FEBRUARY  1, 2012

 112TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION

-The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on February 2, 2012.9:44:32 P.M. -On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.9:44:15 P.M. -Mr. Gohmert moved that the House do now adjourn.8:16:16 P.M. -SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.8:16:04 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.8:15:34 P.M. -H.R. 3630POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Michaud motion to instruct conferees on H.R. 3630, the Chair put the question on the motion and by voice vote announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Michaud demanded the yeas and nays and the Chair postponed further proceedings until a time to be announced.8:14:34 P.M. -H.R. 3630The previous question was ordered without objection.7:25:15 P.M. -H.R. 3630DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on the Michaud motion to instruct conferees on H.R. 3630. The instructions contained in the motion seek to direct the managers on the part of the House at the conference on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses on the Senate amendment to the bill H.R. 3630 to recede from section 2123 of the House bill, relating to allowing a waiver of requirements under section 3304(a)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, including a requirement that all money withdrawn from the unemployment fund of the State shall be used solely in the payment of unemployment compensation.7:22:13 P.M. -H.R. 3630Mr. Michaud moved that the House instruct conferees.7:20:04 P.M. -Mr. Woodall filed reports from the Committee on Rules, H. Res. 533 and H. Res. 534.7:19:26 P.M. -H.R. 3567Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.7:19:25 P.M. -H.R. 3567On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 395 – 27 (Roll no. 20).7:12:03 P.M. -H.R. 3567Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 3567 — “To amend title IV of the Social Security Act to require States to implement policies to prevent assistance under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program from being used in strip clubs, casinos, and liquor stores.”7:12:02 P.M. -H.R. 3835Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.7:12:01 P.M. -H.R. 3835On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 309 – 117 (Roll no. 19).7:05:47 P.M. -H.R. 3835Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 3835 — “To extend the pay limitation for Members of Congress and Federal employees.”7:05:28 P.M. -UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on adoption of motions to suspend the rules which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.7:05:21 P.M. -H.R. 1173Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.7:05:19 P.M. -H.R. 1173On passage Passed by recorded vote: 267 – 159 (Roll no. 18).6:58:30 P.M. -H.R. 1173On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by recorded vote: 175 – 247 (Roll no. 17).6:41:50 P.M. -H.R. 1173The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.6:30:31 P.M. -H.R. 1173Floor summary: DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Garamendi motion to recommit. The instructions contained in the motion seek to require the bill to be reported back to the House with an amendment to insert a section entitled “Ensuring Long-Term Care Services for Seniors with Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Disabled Individuals”.6:30:18 P.M. -H.R. 1173Mr. Garamendi moved to recommit with instructions to Energy and Commerce.6:29:04 P.M. -H.R. 1173The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.6:28:47 P.M. -H.R. 1173The House adopted the amendment in the nature of a substitute as agreed to by the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union.6:28:36 P.M. -H.R. 1173The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 1173.6:28:06 P.M. -H.R. 1173On agreeing to the Deutch amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 160 – 264 (Roll no. 16).6:23:33 P.M. -H.R. 1173On agreeing to the Deutch amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 164 – 260 (Roll no. 15).6:18:23 P.M. -H.R. 1173On agreeing to the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 157 – 264 (Roll no. 14).6:13:53 P.M. -H.R. 1173On agreeing to the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 161 – 263 (Roll no. 13).5:46:02 P.M. -H.R. 1173UNFINISHED 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.4:18:00 P.M. -H.R. 1173The Committee of the Whole proceeded with pro forma amendments.4:17:19 P.M. -H.R. 1173POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Deutch amendment No. 5, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced the noes had prevailed. Mr. Deutch demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.4:08:04 P.M. -H.R. 1173DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Deutch amendment No. 5 under the five-minute rule.4:07:59 P.M. -H.R. 1173An amendment, offered by Mr. Deutch,  numbered 5 printed in the Congressional Record to propose adding a new section for class program flexibility.4:07:08 P.M. -H.R. 1173POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Deutch amendment No. 4, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced the noes had prevailed. Mr. Deutch demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.4:00:13 P.M. -H.R. 1173DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Deutch amendment No. 4 under the five-minute rule.4:00:08 P.M. -H.R. 1173An amendment, offered by Mr. Deutch,  numbered 4 printed in the Congressional Record to propose adding a new section to prevent an increase in medicaid spending.3:59:42 P.M. -H.R. 1173POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Jackson Lee amendment No. 1, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced the noes had prevailed. Ms. Jackson Lee demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.3:50:01 P.M. -H.R. 1173DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment No. 1 under the five-minute rule.3:49:36 P.M. -H.R. 1173An amendment, offered by Ms. Jackson Lee (TX),  numbered 1 printed in the Congressional Record to add a new section to ensure market penetration for private long-term care insurance.3:48:50 P.M. -H.R. 1173POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Jackson Lee amendment No. 2, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced the noes had prevailed. Ms. Jackson Lee demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.3:37:23 P.M. -H.R. 1173DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment No. 2 under the five-minute rule.3:37:06 P.M. -H.R. 1173An amendment, offered by Ms. Jackson Lee (TX),  numbered 2 printed in the Congressional Record to propose adding a new section requiring a study on the impact of not having long-term care insurance on the Federal, State and local governments.2:25:09 P.M. -H.R. 1173GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 1173.2:24:58 P.M. -H.R. 1173The Speaker designated the Honorable Candice S. Miller to act as Chairwoman of the Committee.2:24:57 P.M. -H.R. 1173House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 522 and Rule XVIII.2:24:46 P.M. -H.R. 1173Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 1173 with 1 hour of general debate. Motion to recommit with or without instructions allowed. Measure will be considered read. Specified amendments are in order. The resolution makes in order the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Energy and Commerce now printed in the bill for the purpose of amendment. The resolution makes in order only those amendments that are submitted for printing in the Congressional Record not later than the legislative day of Tuesday, January 31, 2012, or pro forma amendments for the purpose of debate. The bill shall be considered for amendment for a period not to exceed three hours.2:24:41 P.M. -H.R. 1173Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 522. H.R. 1173 — “To repeal the CLASS program.”2:23:09 P.M. -H.R. 3567At 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.1:39:26 P.M. -H.R. 3567DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3567.1:39:24 P.M. -H.R. 3567Considered under suspension of the rules.1:39:00 P.M. -H.R. 3567Mr. Boustany moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 3567 — “To amend title IV of the Social Security Act to require States to implement policies to prevent assistance under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program from being used in strip clubs, casinos, and liquor stores.”1:37:46 P.M. -UNANIMOUS CONSENT REQUEST – Mr. Daniel E. Lungren asked unanimous consent that the “Standards for the Electronic Posting of House and Committee Documents and Data”, which were adopted by the Committee on House Administration on December 16, 2011, be printed in the Congressional Record. Agreed to without objection.1:36:45 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 90Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.1:36:43 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 90On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.1:36:09 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 90Considered by unanimous consent. H. Con. Res. 90 — “Authorizing the printing of the 25th edition of the pocket version of the United States Constitution.”1:36:07 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 90Mr. Lungren, Daniel E. asked unanimous consent to discharge from committee and consider.1:36:06 P.M. -H. Res. 496Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.1:35:59 P.M. -H. Res. 496On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.1:20:24 P.M. -H. Res. 496DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 496.1:20:21 P.M. -H. Res. 496Considered under suspension of the rules.1:19:57 P.M. -H. Res. 496Mr. Lungren, Daniel E. moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution. H. Res. 496 — “Adjusting the amount provided for the expenses of certain committees of the House of Representatives in the One Hundred Twelfth Congress.”1:17:49 P.M. -H.R. 3835At 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.12:32:55 P.M. -H.R. 3835DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3835.12:32:53 P.M. -H.R. 3835Considered under suspension of the rules.12:32:19 P.M. -H.R. 3835Mr. Ross (FL) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 3835 — “To extend the pay limitation for Members of Congress and Federal employees.”12:30:02 P.M. -H.R. 658Conference report H. Rept. 112-381 filed.12:07:03 P.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.12:06:26 P.M. -BOARD OF VISITORS TO THE UNITED STATES MILITARY ACADEMY – Pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 4355(a), and the order of the House of January 5, 2011, the Speaker appointed Mr. Shimkus of Illinois and Mr. Womack of Arkansas to the Board of Visitors to the United States Military Academy .12:05:09 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – Mr. Garrett of New Jersey was recognized for the purpose of introducing the guest Chaplain for today.12:03:56 P.M. -PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Bucshon to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.12:03:49 P.M. -The Speaker announced approval of the Journal.  Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.12:02:15 P.M. -Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Karen Hallett, United States Army, New Windsor, New York.12:00:53 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of February 1.10:36:52 A.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 P.M. today.10:01:20 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.10:01:13 A.M. -The Speaker designated the Honorable Chip Cravaack to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.10:00:52 A.M. -The House convened, starting a new legislative day.