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ThinkProgress …

04/29/2010 Nativegrl77

RADICAL RIGHT — FORMER GUN CONTROL ADVOCATE JOHN MCCAIN INTRODUCES BILL TO CURB D.C.’S GUN CONTROL LAWS: Facing a primary campaign challenge from ultra-conservative former congressman J.D. Hayworth, Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) has been veering far to the right, even renouncing his carefully-honed “maverick” image. After reversing his positions on climate change and immigration in order to appease right-wing voters, he is now doing the same on gun control. On Tuesday, he and Sen. John Tester (D-MT) introduced legislation that would force the District of Columbia to weaken its gun laws. The “Second Amendment Enforcement Act” (SAEA) would repeal the city’s registration rules, allowing “D.C. residents to buy guns in Maryland and Virginia, while also allowing law-abiding Washingtonians to transport firearms in the District.” Additionally, it would “alter city laws that recommend guns be kept unloaded and either unassembled or locked in homes.” Less than 10 years ago, however, McCain was actually pushing for stricter regulations. As a spokesperson for Americans for Gun Safety pointed out, McCain cut ads urging states to close the so-called gun show loophole, which allows people to purchase guns without a background check. In 2001, McCain “rattled the gun-rights lobby” when he sponsored national legislation to eliminate the loophole. Indeed, his moderate stance earned him praise from gun-control advocates and scorn from gun-rights organizations, with Gun Owners of America accusing McCain of “working with the enemy” and giving him an “F” rating for 2004 and 2006. McCain’s latest flip-flop has drawn criticism from Jonathan Cowan, president of the center-left think tank Third Way and former head of Americans for Gun Safety, who called McCain’s sponsorship of the SAEA “the most spectacular and blatant reversal in Senator McCain’s political career.”

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Congress at work Thursday ….

04/29/2010 Nativegrl77

Updates when needed

The Senate Convenes: 12:15pm Resume consideration of S.3217, Wall Street Reform.

The following amendments are pending to S.3217:
Reid for Dodd-Lincoln amendment #3739 (Substitute)
Reid for Boxer #3737 (No Taxpayer Bailout)

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

Unanimous Consent:
Passed HR3714, Daniel Pearl Freedom of the Press Act.

Adopted H.Con.Res.264, a concurrent resolution authorizing the use of the Capitol grounds for the National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service (the event will be held on May 15, 2010).

Adopted S.Con.Res.61, a concurrent resolution expressing the sense of Congress that general aviation pilots and industry should be recognized for the contributions made in response to Haiti earth quake relief efforts.

Adopted S.Con.Res.62, a concurrent resolution congratulating the outstanding professional public servants, both past and present, of the Natural Resources Conservation Service on the occasion of its 75th anniversary.

Adopted S.Res.481, a resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that public servants should be commended for their dedication and continued service to the Nation during Public Service Recognition Week, May 3 through 9, 2010.

Adopted S.Res.507, a resolution designating April 30, 2010, as “Dia de los Ninos: Celebrating Young Americans.”

Confirmed the following nominations:
-David Hale to be United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky;
– Kerry Harvery to be United States Attorney for th eEaster District of Kentucky;
– Alicia Anne Garrido Limtiaco to be United States Attorney for the district of Guam and concurerntly United States Attorney for the District of the Northern Mariana Islands;
-Kenneth Gonzales to be United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF APRIL 29, 2010
111TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION

9:16 P.M. –: The House adjourned pursuant to a previous special order. The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on May 3, 2010. On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.

Mr. King (IA) moved that the House do now adjourn.
7:05 P.M. –: SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.
7:03 P.M. –: Mr. Poe of TX requested the following general leaves to address the House on May 6: himself for 5 min, and Mr. Jones for 5 min. Mr. Poe of TX requested that Mr. Calvert be allowed to address the House for 5 minutes on May 5.

Mr. Poe of TX requested that Mr. Calvert be allowed to address the House for 5 minutes on May 4.
7:02 P.M. –: The House received a communication from the Honorable James L. Oberstar. Mr. Oberstar notified the House that today, on April 29, 2010, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure met in open session to consider four resolutions for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in accordance with 33 U.S.C. sec. 542. The resolutions authorize Corps surveys (or studies) of water resources needs and possible solutions. The Committee adopted the resolutions by voice vote with a quorum present.
7:01 P.M. –: ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.
7:00 P.M. –: Mr. Hoyer asked unanimous consent That, when the House adjourns on Thursday, April 29, 2010, it adjourn to meet at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, May 3, 2010. Agreed to without objection. Mr. Hoyer asked unanimous consent That, when the House adjourns on Monday, May 3, 2010, it adjourn to meet at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 4, 2010, for Morning-Hour Debate. Agreed to without objection.

H. Res. 375:

supporting the goals and ideals of Workers’ Memorial Day in order to honor and remember the workers who have been killed or injured in the workplace

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
6:57 P.M. –: Considered as unfinished business.
6:56 P.M. –: ORDER OF PROCEDURE – Mr. Hoyer asked unanimous consent to vacate the proceedings by which the yeas and nays were ordered on the question of the motion to suspend the rules and agree to H.Res. 375, as amended, to the end that the resolution be considered as adopted in the form considered by the House on Tuesday, April 27, 2010. Agreed to without objection.

H.R. 2499:

to provide for a federally sanctioned self-determination process for the people of Puerto Rico

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On passage Passed by the Yeas and Nays: 223 – 169, 1 Present (Roll no. 242).
6:39 P.M. –: On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by recorded vote: 194 – 198 (Roll no. 241).
6:22 P.M. –: The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.
6:13 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Hastings (WA) motion to recommit with instructions. The instructions contained in the motion seek to report the same back to the House with an amendment to allow Puerto Rico to be admitted as a State of the Union and ensure that english shall be the official language of the State; and to allow the residents of Puerto Rico to have the right to own, possess, carry, or use firearms for lawful defense.

Mr. Hastings (WA) moved to recommit with instructions to Natural Resources.
6:12 P.M. –: The House adopted the amendment in the nature of a substitute as agreed to by the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union.
6:11 P.M. –: The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 2499. On agreeing to the Velazquez amendment Failed by recorded vote: 171 – 223 (Roll no. 240).
6:05 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Velazquez amendment Failed by recorded vote: 112 – 285 (Roll no. 239).
5:58 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Velazquez amendment Failed by recorded vote: 11 – 387 (Roll no. 238).
5:51 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Burton (IN) amendment Agreed to by recorded vote: 301 – 100 (Roll no. 237).
5:44 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Gutierrez amendment Failed by recorded vote: 13 – 386 (Roll no. 236).
5:36 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Gutierrez amendment Failed by recorded vote: 164 – 236 (Roll no. 235).

5:29 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Foxx amendment Agreed to by recorded vote: 223 – 179 (Roll no. 234).
4:56 P.M. –: UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was on the question of adoption of amendments which had been previously debated and on which further proceedings had been postponed.
4:55 P.M. –: By unanimous consent, the Hastings (WA) amendment was withdrawn.
4:50 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1305, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Hastings (WA) amendment in the nature of a substitute.
4:49 P.M. –: Amendment in the nature of a substitute offered by Mr. Hastings (WA).

An amendment numbered 8 printed in House Report 111-468 to state that Puerto Rico has, and has had, the authority to conduct plebiscites.

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Velazquez amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Rahall demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.
4:38 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1305, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Velazquez amendment in the nature of a substitute number 7.

Amendment in the nature of a substitute offered by Ms. Velazquez.

An amendment numbered 7 printed in House Report 111-468 to express that it is the Sense of Congress that a proposal for a change of status must come first from the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico before Congress decides to consider the issue, therefore respecting their right of self-determination.

DEBATE – At the conclusion of debate on the Velazquez amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Rahall demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.
4:26 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1305, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Velazquez amendment number 6. Amendment offered by Ms. Velazquez.

An amendment numbered 6 printed in House Report 111-468 to eliminate the first round of voting in Section 2 of the bill and insert an option for Commonwealth as a fourth option to the ballot. It also provides for a runoff process if no option receives more than 50 percent of the vote that would be between the two options that received the most votes.
4:25 P.M. –: POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Velazquez amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Ms. Velazquez demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day

4:15 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1305, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Velazquez amendment number 5. Amendment offered by Ms. Velazquez.

An amendment numbered 5 printed in House Report 111-468 to expand eligibility to vote in the any plebiscites authorized by this bill to U.S. citizens of Puerto Rican descent residing in any of the 50 States.
4:14 P.M. –: POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Burton (IN) amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Burton (IN) demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.
4:02 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1305, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Burton (IN) amendment. Amendment offered by Mr. Burton (IN).

An amendment numbered 4 printed in House Report 111-468 to retain the requirement that all ballots used for authorized plebiscites include the full content of the ballot printed in English. It would also require the Puerto Rico State Elections Commission to inform voters in all authorized plebiscites that if Puerto Rico retains its current status or is admitted as a State: (1) any official language requirements of the Federal Government shall apply to Puerto Rico to the same extent as throughout the United States; and (2) it is the Sense of Congress that the teaching of English be promoted in Puerto Rico in order for English-language proficiency to be achieved.

4:01 P.M. –

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Gutierrez amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Ms. Velazquez demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.

3:51 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1305, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Gutierrez amendment number 3. Amendment offered by Mr. Gutierrez.

An amendment numbered 3 printed in House Report 111-468 to provide that the ballots in the plebiscite to be conducted under H.R. 2499 are printed in Spanish.

3:50 P.M. –

POSTOPNED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Gutierrez amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Gutierrez demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.

3:39 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1305, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Gutierrez amendment number 2.

Amendment offered by Mr. Gutierrez.

An amendment numbered 2 printed in House Report 111-468 to provide the Puerto Rican people have the option to choose “none of the above” with regard to the status of Puerto Rico.
3:38 P.M. –: POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Foxx amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Rahall demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.
3:26 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1305, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Foxx amendment. Amendment offered by Ms. Foxx.

An amendment numbered 1 printed in House Report 111-468 to allow supporters of the commonwealth status quo the option of voting their preference during the second stage of the plebiscite.
1:34 P.M. –: GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour and thirty minutes of

general debate on H.R. 2499.
1:33 P.M. –: The Speaker designated the Honorable Adam B. Schiff 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. 1305 and Rule XVIII.

Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 2499 with 1 hour and 30 minutes 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 provides that the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Natural Resources now printed in the bill shall be considered as an original bill for the purpose of amendment. All points of order against consideration of the bill are waived except those arising under clauses 9 and 10 of rule XXI.

Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 1305.

H. Res. 1305:

providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 2499) to provide for a federally sanctioned self-determination process for the people of Puerto Rico
1:03 P.M. –: On motion to table the motion to reconsider the vote Agreed to by recorded vote: 199 – 186 (Roll no. 233).
1:04 P.M. –: Motion to reconsider the vote tabled.
1:02 P.M. –: Ms. Slaughter moved to table the motion to reconsider the vote

1:01 P.M. –: Mr. Gutierrez moved to reconsider the vote. On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 222 – 190 (Roll no. 232).
12:47 P.M. –: On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 218 – 188 (Roll no. 231).
12:16 P.M. –: Considered as unfinished business.
12:15 P.M. –: The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of April 29.
11:23 A.M. –: The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.

H. Res. 1305:

providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 2499) to provide for a federally sanctioned self-determination process for the people of Puerto Rico

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on H.Res. 1305, the Chair put the question on ordering the previous question, and by voice vote announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Lincoln Diaz-Balart demanded the yeas and nays, and the Chair postponed further proceedings on ordering the previous question until later in the legislative day.

10:35 A.M. –: DEBATE – The House resumed debate on H. Res. 1305.
10:34 A.M. –: The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate passed H.R. 5146 and H.R. 5147, without amendment.

H. Res. 1305:

providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 2499) to provide for a federally sanctioned self-determination process for the people of Puerto Rico
10:17 A.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 1305 Considered as privileged matter.
10:02 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.

~ my 2cents ...

People Places and Things … to avoid?

04/28/2010 Nativegrl77

Apparently, the following States not only are practicing exclusion the very people voted into office to represent WE the People are responsible … is racism starting to rear its ugly head; another question … what are people going to do peacefully about this because the impact from these actions will impact all of We the People

Arizona …

Alabama …

Colorado

Georgia …

Utah

~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

ThinkProgress …

04/28/2010 Nativegrl77

RADICAL RIGHT — OKLAHOMA LEGISLATURE OVERRIDES GOVERNOR’S VETO TO ENACT HARSH ANTI-CHOICE LAWS: The Oklahoma Senate voted yesterday to override Gov. Brad Henry’s (D) veto of two harsh anti-choice measures, including one that “requires women to undergo an ultrasound and listen to a detailed description of the fetus before getting an abortion.” The House voted “overwhelmingly” to override the veto on Monday, so the measures are now law. Doctors who fail to comply with the ultrasound law “would face fines and could be sued by the woman’s spouse or family members.” The other new law “prohibits pregnant women from seeking damages if physicians withhold information or provide inaccurate information about their pregnancy,” a measure supporters say will keep women from “discriminating against fetuses with disabilities.” Henry vetoed both measures Friday, calling the ultrasound law an “unconstitutional” attempt to force a woman to undergo medical treatment “against her will” adding that it “could cause physical or mental trauma.” On the other measure, Henry said women should expect to receive all relevant information in order to make a decision about their pregnancy. He noted that the legislation “allow[s] unscrupulous, reckless or negligent physicians to knowingly withhold information or negligently provide inaccurate information to pregnant women without facing the potential of legal consequences.” Oklahoma courts have overturned a number of other harsh anti-choice laws, including one very similar to the new ultrasound law just last month. Predicting a similar outcome with the new laws, Henry said, “I fear this entire exercise will ultimately be a waste of taxpayers’ time and money.” Indeed, the Center for Reproductive Rights (CRR) — which has successfully sued against other abortion laws in the state — filed suit “just hours after” the Senate override vote “on the grounds that it violates a woman’s right to terminate a pregnancy and constitutional rights to equal protection.” CRR attorney Stephanie Toti said the ultrasound law is “the most restrictive [anti-choice law] in the country.” Pro-choice state Rep. Jeannie McDaniel (D) told The Progress Report last year that in Oklahoma, male legislators “have a very strong feeling that women aren’t capable of making reproductive decisions.”

~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

Congress at Work on Wednesday …

04/28/2010 Nativegrl77

The Senate Convenes: 9:30amET

Updates when needed

Breaking News .. Sen Shelby has decided to cross over and stop the insanity? … no late night for the Senate tonight as the debates possibly some good amendments for Wall Street/Financial Reform will in fact move forward … no more test votes … Democrats get a WIN: maybe bipartisanship can happen and get the Peoples work done.

Morning Business for 90 minutes with senators permitted to speak for up to 10 minutes each and the time equally divided. The Republicans will control the first 30 minutes and the Majority will control the next 30 minutes.

Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of S.3217, Wall Street Reform, with the time until 12:20pm equally divided and controlled between the two leaders or their designees.Votes:

127: Motion to Invoke Cloture on the Motion to Proceed to S.3217, Wall Street Reform;
Not Invoked: 56-42.

Unanimous Consent:
Passed HR5246, an Act to prohibit a cost of living adjustment for Members of Congress in Fiscal Year 2011.

Passed HR5147, Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2010 (extends all FAA programs to July 3, 2010).

Adopted S.Res.504, a resolution expressing the condolences of the Senate to those affected by the tragic events following the tornado that hit central Mississippi on April 24, 2010.

**********************************

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF APRIL 28, 2010
111TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION

7:14 P.M. –: The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on April 29, 2010. On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.

Mr. King (IA) moved that the House do now adjourn.

6:24 P.M. –: SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House resumed Special Order speeches.
6:23 P.M. –: Mr. Arcuri filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 1305.

3:52 P.M. –: SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.
3:51 P.M. –: Mr. Poe of TX requested the following general leaves to address the House on May 5: Mr. Moran of KS for 5 min, himself for 5 min, and Mr. Jones for 5 min.
3:44 P.M. –: ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded further with one minute speeches.

H.R. 5013:

to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for performance management of the defense acquisition system, and for other purposes

3:41 P.M. –: Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On passage Passed by recorded vote: 417 – 3 (Roll no. 230).
3:34 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Skelton amendment Agreed to by voice vote.
3:33 P.M. –: Amendment offered by Mr. Skelton. On motion to recommit with instructions Agreed to by recorded vote: 419 – 1 (Roll no. 229).
3:13 P.M. –: The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.
3:03 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Buyer 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 inserting a new section pertaining to the disclosure and traceability of the cost of Department of Defense health care contracts.
3:00 P.M. –: Mr. Buyer moved to recommit with instructions to Armed Services.
2:59 P.M. –: The House adopted the amendment in the nature of a substitute as agreed to by the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union.

2:58 P.M. –: The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule. The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 5013.

On agreeing to the Connolly (VA) amendment Agreed to by recorded vote: 417 – 2 (Roll no. 228).
2:48 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Hall (NY) amendment Agreed to by recorded vote: 416 – 0 (Roll no. 227).
2:19 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Hare amendment Agreed to by voice vote.
2:13 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1300, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Hare amendment. Amendment offered by Mr. Hare.

An amendment numbered 16 printed in House Report 11-467 to declare that it is the sense of Congress that the Department of Defense should ensure full compliance throughout the acquisition process with the Berry Amendment and the Buy American Act. Further, the amendment declares the sense of Congress that the Department of Defense not procure products made by manufacturers in the United States that violate labor standards as defined under the laws of the United States.

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

2:03 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1300, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Grayson amendment. Amendment offered by Mr. Grayson.

An amendment numbered 15 printed in House Report 111-467 to require DOD to give cost at least equal importance in evaluating competitive proposals for Federal contracts versus other factors or explain any waivers of such requirement.
2:02 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Kissell amendment Agreed to by voice vote.
1:56 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1300, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Kissell amendment. Amendment offered by Mr. Kissell.

An amendment numbered 14 printed in House Report 111-467 to require GAO to do a study of the items purchased under 37 U.S.C. section 418, and determine if there is sufficient domestic production of such items to adequately supply members of the Armed Forces. Would then require DOD to provide to the House Armed Services Committee, within 6 months of receiving the GAO recommendations, an evaluation of whether items purchased under section 418 of title 37 should be covered under the Berry Amendment.

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

1:52 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1300, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Dahlkemper amendment. Amendment offered by Mrs. Dahlkemper.

An amendment numbered 13 printed in House Report 111-467 to direct the Secretary of Defense to carry out a program providing for cost savings on non-developmental items by allowing a contracting officer to make an award for an existing contract to an entity submitting a new proposal that provides for a savings of greater than 15%, provided that doing so does not constitute a breach of contract.

On agreeing to the Childers amendment Agreed to by voice vote.
1:47 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1300, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Childers amendment. Amendment offered by Mr. Childers.

An amendment numbered 12 printed in House Report 111-467 to ensure that training courses for acquisition personnel include market research strategies to ensure that the surrounding market is considered during the contracting process.

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Connolly (VA) amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Connolly (VA) demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.

1:38 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1300, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Connolly (VA) amendment. Amendment offered by Mr. Connolly (VA).

An amendment numbered 11 printed in House Report 111-467 to create an Industrial Base Council within the DOD, supported by existing personnel and funds, to provide recommendations to the Secretary on budget and policy matters related to the industrial base. Would require an annual report to Congress on the Council’s activities.

On agreeing to the Schrader amendment Agreed to by voice vote.
1:33 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1300, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Schrader amendment. Amendment offered by Mr. Schrader.

An amendment numbered 10 printed in House Report 111-467 to prohibit the award of contracts for personal services by any DOD component for the purpose of obtaining the services of a senior mentor. Nothing would prohibit DOD from hiring retired generals and flag officers as `senior mentors’ under the highly qualified expert provision of 5 U.S.C. section 9903 with additional financial disclosure and conflict of interest requirements in place.

On agreeing to the Quigley amendment Agreed to by voice vote.
1:27 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1300, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Quigley amendment number 9. Amendment offered by Mr. Quigley.

An amendment numbered 9 printed in House Report 111-467 to direct the Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation (CAPE) in its next report to Congress to (1) assess whether and to what extent program cost estimators for major defense acquisition programs are independent and (2) whether a lack of independence affects their ability to generate reliable cost estimates.

On agreeing to the Quigley amendment Agreed to by voice vote.
1:20 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1300, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Quigley amendment number 8. Amendment offered by Mr. Quigley.

An amendment numbered 8 printed in House Report 111-647 to include energy efficiency as one of the metrics that may be used in performance assessment of defense acquisitions, and would include energy efficiency of weapons systems as one of the items considered in the Secretary of Defense’s review of defense acquisition guidance.

On agreeing to the Murphy (CT) amendment Agreed to by voice vote.
1:14 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1300, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Murphy (CT) amendment. Amendment offered by Mr. Murphy (CT).

An amendment numbered 7 printed in House Report 111-467 to specify that Title IV assistance in the legislation (Expansion of the Industrial Base) be limited to firms within the national technology and industrial base, as defined in section 2500(1) of title 10, United States Code.

On agreeing to the Moore (WI) amendment Agreed to by voice vote.
1:07 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1300, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Moore (WI) amendment. Amendment offered by Ms. Moore (WI).

An amendment numbered 6 printed in House Report 111-467 to specify that assessment metrics required to measure contractor performance include “compliance of such contractors with department policy regarding the use of certain small businesses.”

On agreeing to the Edwards (MD) amendment Agreed to by voice vote.
1:00 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1300, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Edewards (MD) amendment. Amendment offered by Ms. Edwards (MD).

An amendment numbered 5 printed in House Report 111-467 to direct the DOD to engage in outreach to businesses in the vicinity of DOD installations to notify them of opportunities to obtain contracts and subcontracts to perform work at such installations.

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Hall (NY) amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Hall (NY) demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.
12:53 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1300, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Hall (NY) amendment. Amendment offered by Mr. Hall (NY).

An amendment numbered 4 printed in House Report 111-467 to require the Director of the Office of Performance Assessment and Root Cause Analysis (“PARCA”) to include performance assessments with significant findings in its annual report. It also requires submission of egregious problems (as defined by the PARCA Director) to the Armed Services Committees

On agreeing to the Andrews amendment Agreed to by voice vote.
12:51 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1300, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Andrews amendment. Amendment offered by Mr. Andrews.

An amendment numbered 3 printed in House Report 111-467 to support a diverse workforce development program with respect to career development for civilian and military personnel in the acquisition workforce.
12:50 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Sessions amendment Agreed to by voice vote.
12:46 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1300, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Sessions amendment. Amendment offered by Mr. Sessions.

An amendment numbered 2 printed in House Report 111-467 to provide that nothing in the Act or amendments made by it shall be construed to affect the competition requirements of 10 U.S.C. 2304 (contract competition requirements).
12:45 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Skelton amendment Agreed to by voice vote.

12:40 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1300, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Skelton amendment. Amendment offered by Mr. Skelton.

An amendment numbered 1 printed in House Report 111-467 to make various technical corrections to the bill. It also would provide that nothing in contracts for military purpose non-developmental items shall restrict or otherwise affect the rights in technical data of the Government, the contractor, or any subcontractor for items developed by the contractor or subcontractor exclusively at private expense.

11:48 A.M. –

GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 5013. The Speaker designated the Honorable Ron Kind 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. 1300 and Rule XVIII.

Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 5013 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 provides that the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Armed Services shall be considered as an original bill. All points of order against consideration of the bill are waived except those arising under clause 9 or 10 of rule XXI.

Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 1300.

H. Res. 1300:

providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 5013) to amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for performance management of the defense acquisition system, and for other purposes
11:42 A.M. –: Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

The previous question was ordered without objection.
11:20 A.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 1300 Considered as privileged matter.

H.R. 5147:

to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the funding and expenditure authority of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund, to amend title 49, United States Code, to extend authorizations for the airport improvement program, and for other purposes

11:19 A.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.
11:06 A.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5147. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Costello moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

H. Con. Res. 264:

authorizing the use of the Capitol Grounds for the National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service
11:05 A.M. –: Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

11:01 A.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Con. Res. 264. Considered under suspension of the rules.
11:00 A.M. –: Mr. Costello moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H.R. 5148:

to amend title 39, United States Code, to clarify the instances in which the term “census” may appear on mailable matter

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.
10:42 A.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5148. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Towns moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

H.R. 3393:

to amend the Improper Payments Information Act of 2002 (31 U.S.C. 3321 note) in order to prevent the loss of billions in taxpayer dollars

10:41 A.M. –: Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
10:23 A.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3393. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Towns moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.
10:22 A.M. –: The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until later in the legislative day.
10:03 A.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.