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Berkley for Senate


Berkley for Senate

This Saturday marks one of the most important milestones of the election season — it will be the first opportunity in 2012 for campaigns across the country to display the depth of their support.

Midnight on Saturday is the end of the first FEC fundraising quarter of the year. Pundits and prognosticators everywhere will use this number as a measure of strength.

Nevada is going to be one of the closest elections in the nation — which means our numbers this quarter are even more important. That’s why I set a goal — $25,000 by the filing deadline on Saturday.

Don’t miss this chance to show our strength — contribute what you can today, and help us get to our $25,000 goal before the deadline.

Special interests back in Washington, D.C. don’t think a grassroots campaign can amass the strength necessary to take on their millions. They think they’ll be able to throw so many smears at us that we won’t be able to fight back.

I know they’re wrong, but I need you to help me prove it. We need enough resources to counter the barrage that will inevitably come in this race.

This is a critical test — and an opportunity for us to make a statement about our strength. Contribute today — even if it’s $5 or $10 — and help us hit our $25,000 goal before Saturday.

I’m running for Senate because I believe in strengthening our economy and the security of the middle class. But to win, we’ll need to show that we have a different kind of strength already within us. I hope you will stand with me.

Thanks for all you do.

Shelley

PS: Know anyone else who’d like to help us show our strength? Do your part and contribute today, then share our call with your family and friends on Facebook and Twitter.

Black History

Congress: the House, led by Republicans – the Senate, Dems considers S.2204,Repeal Big Oil Tax


the Senate Convenes at 10:00amET March 27, 2012

  • Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in morning business for one hour with the Republicans controlling the first half and the Majority controlling the final half.
  • Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of the motion to proceed to S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act, post-cloture.  By unanimous consent, all time during adjournment, recess and morning business will count post-cloture on the motion to proceed to S.2204.
  • At 12:30pm, the Senate will recess subject to the call of the Chair to accommodate the weekly caucus meetings and the official photograph of the 112th Congress.
  • We hope to begin consideration of S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act during Tuesday’s session.

The Senate has reached an agreement that results 1 roll call vote beginning at 3:30pm today. The agreement is as follows:

The time until 3:30pm will be equally divided and controlled between the two Leaders or their designees. At 3:30pm, the Senate will adopt the motion to proceed to S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies bill. We will then proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.1789, the Postal Reform bill.

3:45pm The Senate began a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.1789, the Postal Reform bill; Not Invoked: 51-46

Senator Reid changed his vote to no and entered a motion to reconsider the failed cloture vote.

 The Senate then resumed consideration of S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies bill. Senator Reid then filled the amendment tree and filed cloture on the bill. We expect the cloture vote on the bill to occur Thursday.

 Senator Reid then moved to proceed to Legislative Calendar #339, S.2230, the Paying a Fair Share Act (Buffet Rule).

This afternoon, Senator DeMint asked unanimous consent the Senate take up and pass Legislative Calendar #336, S.2191, a bill to amend the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 to prohibit the Attorney General from administering or enforcing certain accessibility regulations relating to pools at public accommodations or provided by public entities.

Senator Harkin objected to the request.

Senator Reid asked unanimous consent that the Foreign Relations Committee be discharged from further consideration of H.R.1905, the Iran Threat Reduction Act, and the Senate proceed to its consideration; that all after the enacting clause be stricken and a substitute amendment, which includes the text of Calendar #320, S.2101, the Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Human Rights Act, as reported by the Banking Committee, be inserted in lieu thereof; that the bill, as amended, be read a third time and passed; and the motions to reconsider be laid upon the table with no intervening action or debate.

Senator Paul objected to the request.

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF MARCH 27, 2012

 112TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION

 . -SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.6:38:34 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.6:36:10 P.M. -Mr. Woodall filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 597.6:35:54 P.M. -H.R. 3309Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.6:35:53 P.M. -H.R. 3309On passage Passed by recorded vote: 247 – 174 (Roll no. 138).6:29:56 P.M. -H.R. 3309On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by recorded vote: 184 – 236 (Roll no. 137).6:12:59 P.M. -H.R. 3309The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.6:03:49 P.M. -H.R. 3309Floor summary: DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Perlmutter motion to recommit with instructions. The instructions contained in the motion seek to report the same back to the House forthwith with an amendment to prohibit the underlying bill from limiting the ability of the FCC to adopt a rule or amend an existing rule to protect online privacy including requirements that prohibit licensees or regulated entities from mandating that job applicants or employees disclose confidential passwords to social networking sites.6:03:25 P.M. -H.R. 3309Mr. Perlmutter moved to recommit with instructions to Energy and Commerce.6:02:30 P.M. -H.R. 3309The 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.6:02:10 P.M. -H.R. 3309The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.6:01:22 P.M. -H.R. 3309The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 3309.6:01:14 P.M. -H.R. 3309On agreeing to the Owens amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 194 – 222 (Roll no. 136).5:57:04 P.M. -H.R. 3309On agreeing to the Eshoo amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 179 – 238 (Roll no. 135).5:52:39 P.M. -H.R. 3309On agreeing to the Crowley amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 196 – 219 (Roll no. 134).5:24:24 P.M. -H.R. 3309UNFINISHED 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.5:23:12 P.M. -H.R. 3309On agreeing to the Eshoo amendment; as modified Agreed to by voice vote.5:22:59 P.M. -H.R. 3309DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 595, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Eshoo amendment No. 10, as modified.5:22:17 P.M. -H.R. 3309Eshoo amendment; modified by unanimous consent. Amendment inserts a new section regarding communications of first responders.5:21:45 P.M. -H.R. 3309An amendment, offered by Ms. Eshoo, numbered 10 printed in House Report 112-422 to express that nothing in this Act shall impede the FCC from providing efficient and effective communication systems for state and local first responders.5:17:57 P.M. -H.R. 3309On agreeing to the Speier amendment; Failed by voice vote.5:10:56 P.M. -H.R. 3309DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 595, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Speier amendment No. 9.5:10:52 P.M. -H.R. 3309An amendment, offered by Ms. Speier, numbered 9 printed in House Report 112-422 to prevent this Act from taking effect until the FCC provides a report on the impact of the changes of this Act on the FCC’s mandate to promote competition and innovation.5:10:33 P.M. -H.R. 3309On agreeing to the Green, Al amendment; Agreed to by voice vote.5:09:37 P.M. -H.R. 3309DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 595, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Green, Al (TX) amendment No. 8.5:09:34 P.M. -H.R. 3309An amendment, offered by Mr. Green, Al, numbered 8 printed in House Report 112-422 to clarify that the Act would not impede the FCC’s ability to provide in times of an emergency, for effective and efficient communication systems to alert the public of dangerous weather conditions.5:08:27 P.M. -H.R. 3309POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Owens amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Owens demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.5:02:03 P.M. -H.R. 3309DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 595, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Owens amendment No. 7.5:01:59 P.M. -H.R. 3309An amendment, offered by Mr. Owens, numbered 7 printed in House Report 112-422 to express that nothing in this Act shall impede the FCC from implementing rules to ensure broadband access in rural areas.5:01:48 P.M. -H.R. 3309On agreeing to the Walden amendment; Agreed to by voice vote.4:58:26 P.M. -H.R. 3309DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 595, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Walden amendment No. 6.4:58:23 P.M. -H.R. 3309An amendment, offered by Mr. Walden, numbered 6 printed in House Report 112-422 to make the FCC’s handling of FOIA requests more open and transparent.4:57:32 P.M. -H.R. 3309POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Eshoo amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote announced that the noes had prevailed. Ms. Eshoo demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.4:47:43 P.M. -H.R. 3309DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 595, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Eshoo amendment No. 5.4:47:19 P.M. -H.R. 3309An amendment, offered by Ms. Eshoo, numbered 5 printed in House Report 112-422 to require entities sponsoring political programming to disclose the identity of any donor that has contributed $10,000 or more to such entity in an election reporting cycle.4:44:47 P.M. -H.R. 3309POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Crowley amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Crowley demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.4:39:33 P.M. -H.R. 3309DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 595, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Crowley amendment No. 1.4:39:30 P.M. -H.R. 3309An amendment, offered by Mr. Crowley, numbered 1 printed in House Report 112-422 to require, in the event that the FCC creates or amends a rule relating to baby monitors, the FCC to require the packaging of a new baby monitor to display a warning label so that families are informed that video and sounds captured by an analog baby monitor may be easily viewed or heard by potential intruders outside a consumer’s home.3:32:41 P.M. -H.R. 3309GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 3309.3:32:12 P.M. -H.R. 3309The Speaker designated the Honorable Adam Kinzinger to act as Chairman of the Committee.3:32:09 P.M. -H.R. 3309House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 595 and Rule XVIII.3:29:50 P.M. -H.R. 3309Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 3309 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 waives all points of order against the bill. The resolution waives all points of order against amendment printed in the report.3:29:45 P.M. -H.R. 3309Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 595. H.R. 3309 — “To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to provide for greater transparency and efficiency in the procedures followed by the Federal Communications Commission.”3:29:11 P.M. -H.R. 4239At 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.2:35:39 P.M. -H.R. 4239DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 4239.2:35:37 P.M. -H.R. 4239Considered under suspension of the rules.2:35:24 P.M. -H.R. 4239Mr. Mica moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 4239 — “To provide an extension of Federal-aid highway, highway safety, motor carrier safety, transit, and other programs funded out of the Highway Trust Fund pending enactment of a multiyear law reauthorizing such programs.”2:32:17 P.M. -The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until a time to be announced.2:26:25 P.M. -POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE – Mrs. Maloney rose to a point of personal privilege. The Chair announced that it had been made aware of a basis for the point of personal privilege and recognized Mrs. Maloney to proceed for up to one hour on her point of personal privilege.2:24:44 P.M. -H.R. 3298Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.2:24:43 P.M. -H.R. 3298On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by recorded vote (2/3 required): 414 – 5 (Roll no. 133).2:16:30 P.M. -H.R. 3298Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 3298 — “To establish the position of Special Assistant for Veterans Affairs in the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and for other purposes.”2:16:06 P.M. -H.R. 3606Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.2:16:05 P.M. -H.R. 3606On motion that the House suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendment Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 380 – 41 (Roll no. 132).2:09:13 P.M. -H. Res. 595Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.2:09:10 P.M. -H. Res. 595On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by recorded vote: 242 – 177 (Roll no. 131).2:01:14 P.M. -MOMENT OF SILENCE – The House observed a moment of silence in remembrance of our brave men and women in uniform who have given their lives in the service of our nation in Iraq and Afghanistan and their families, and all who serve in our armed forces and their families.2:00:21 P.M. -H. Res. 595On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 236 – 182 (Roll no. 130).1:10:19 P.M. -H. Res. 595DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 595.1:07:37 P.M. -H. Res. 595Considered as privileged matter. H. Res. 595 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 3309) to amend the Communications Act of 1934 to provide for greater transparency and efficiency in the procedures followed by the Federal Communications Commission.”1:07:05 P.M. -H. Res. 596Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.1:07:00 P.M. -H. Res. 596On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.1:06:33 P.M. -H. Res. 596Considered as privileged matter. H. Res. 596 — “Requesting return of official papers on H.R. 5.”1:05:44 P.M. -H.R. 3606At 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.12:29:18 P.M. -H.R. 3606DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on the Senate amendment to H.R. 3606.12:29:00 P.M. -H.R. 3606Mr. Bachus moved that the House suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendment.12:28:27 P.M. -The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until a time to be announced.12:27:37 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 March 27, 2012 at 9:15 a.m. stating that that body had agreed to H. Con. Res. 108 without amendment and had made appointments to the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom.12:02:28 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.12:02:04 P.M. -PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. McHenry to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.12:01:56 P.M. -The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.12:00:38 P.M. -Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.12:00:32 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 27.10:54:17 A.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 P.M. today.10:48:29 A.M. -MORNING-HOUR DEBATE – The House resumed with Morning-Hour Debate.10:47:33 A.M. -The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate passed H.R. 3606 with an amendment. The Senate also agreed to the House amendment to S. 2038. The Senate made appointments to the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom.10:01:07 A.M. -MORNING-HOUR DEBATE – The House proceeded with Morning-Hour Debate. At the conclusion of Morning-Hour, the House will recess until 12:00 p.m. for the start of legislative business.10:00:19 A.M. -The Speaker designated the Honorable Erik Paulsen to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.10:00:08 A.M. -The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

Black History

Congress: the Republican led House – the Senate Calendar: S.2204,Repeal of Big Oil Tax & S.1789,Postal Reform bill


the Senate Convenes at 2:00pmET March 26, 2012

  • Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in morning business until 4:30pm.
  • Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of Calendar Order #337, S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act with the time until 5:30pm equally divided and controlled between the Leaders or their designees.
  • As a reminder to all Senators, on Thursday, March 22nd, cloture was filed on the motion to proceed to S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act and on the motion to proceed to Calendar Order #296, S.1789, the Postal Reform bill.
  • At approximately 5:30pm on Monday, there will be a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.2204. If cloture is not invoked, there will be a second roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.1789, the Postal Reform Bill.

At 5:30pm today, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on the motion to proceed to Legislative Executive Calendar #337, S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Subsidies Act. If cloture is invoked, there will be up to 30 hours for debate prior to a vote on the motion to proceed. (We expect cloture to be invoked).

 If cloture is not invoked, the Senate would proceed immediately to vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to Legislative Executive Calendar #296, S.1789, the Postal Reform bill.

:30pm The Senate began a roll call vote on the motion to proceed to S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act; Invoked: 92-4

Cloture on the motion to proceed to S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act, was invoked 92-4. There will now be up to 30 hours for debate on the motion, however, we may be able to yield back some of the post cloture time and begin consideration of the bill tomorrow afternoon. There will be no further roll call votes tonight.

WRAP UP

ROLL CALL VOTE

1) Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.2204, the Repeal Big Oil Tax Subsidies Act; Invoked: 92-4

LEGISLATIVE ITEMS

Began the Rule 14 process of S.2237, the Small Business Jobs and Tax Relief Act. (Reid)

Completed the Rule 14 process of H.R.5, Help Efficient, Accessible, Low-cost, Timely Healthcare (HEALTH) Act of 2011. (Republican request)

Completed the Rule 14 process of S.2230, Paying a Fair Share Act. (Whitehouse)

Completed the Rule 14 process of S.2231, Small Business Lending Enhancement Act. (Udall CO)

EXECUTIVE ITEMS

Confirmed all nominations placed on the Secretary’s desk in the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Navy and the following Executive Calendar items:

AIR FORCE

Executive Calendar #615 to be Brigadier General — Col. Peter R. Masciola

Executive Calendar #616 to be Major General — Brig. Gen. Mark A. Ediger

Executive Calendar #617 to be General—Lt. Gen. Janet C. Wolfenbarger

Executive Calendar #618 to be Brigadier General—

Colonel Ondra L. Berry

Colonel Allen D. Bolton

Colonel William D. Cobetto

Colonel Wade A. Lillegard

Colonel Thad L. Myers

Executive Calendar #619 to be Major General—

Brigadier General Steven A. Cray

Brigadier General William J. Crisler, Jr.

Brigadier General Jon F. Fago

Brigadier General Michael A. Loh

Brigadier General Eric W. Vollmecke

Executive Calendar #620 to be Major General—

Brigadier General David W. Allvin

Brigadier General Howard B. Baker

Brigadier General Thomas W. Bergeson

Brigadier General Charles Q. Brown, Jr.

Brigadier General Darryl W. Burke

Brigadier General Richard M. Clark

Brigadier General Dwyer L. Dennis

Brigadier General Mark C. Dillon

Brigadier General Carlton D. Everhart, II

Brigadier General Samuel A. R. Greaves

Brigadier General Morris E. Haase

Brigadier General Garrett Harencak

Brigadier General Paul T. Johnson

Brigadier General Randy A. Kee

Brigadier General Jim H. Keffer

Brigadier General Michael J. Kingsley

Brigadier General Jeffrey G. Lofgren

Brigadier General James K. McLaughlin

Brigadier General Kurt F. Neubauer

Brigadier General John F. Newell, III

Brigadier General Craig S. Olson

Brigadier General John N. T. Shanahan

Brigadier General Michael S. Stough

Brigadier General Scott D. West

Brigadier General Kenneth S. Wilsbach

Executive Calendar #621 to be Brigadier General—

Colonel Steven M. Balser

Colonel Mark H. Berry

Colonel Walter A. Bryan, Jr.

Colonel Gregory S. Champagne

Colonel Sean T. Collins

Colonel John L. D’Errico

Colonel Dawne L. Deskins

Colonel Scott A. Dold

Colonel Gary L. Ebben

Colonel Kenneth L. Gammon

Colonel Bruce R. Guerdan

Colonel Leonard W. Isabelle, Jr.

Colonel Clifford W. Latta, Jr.

Colonel Paul C. Maas, Jr.

Colonel Edward P. Maxwell

Colonel David M. McMinn

Colonel Thomas C. Patton

Colonel Braden K. Sakai

Colonel Janet I. Sessums

Colonel Peter J. Siana

Colonel Jeffrey M. Silver

Colonel James K. Vogel

Colonel Sallie K. Worcester

Executive Calendar #622 to be Lieutenant General — Lt. Gen. Clyde D. Moore, II

Executive Calendar #623 to be Brigadier General — Col. Douglas D. Delozier

ARMY

Executive Calendar #625 to be Major General — Brig. Gen. Michael X. Garrett

Executive Calendar #626 to be Major General—

Brigadier General Robert P. Ashley, Jr.

Brigadier General Jeffrey L. Bailey

Brigadier General Jeffrey N. Colt

Brigadier General Kenneth R. Dahl

Brigadier General Gordon B. Davis, Jr.

Brigadier General Joseph P. DiSalvo

Brigadier General Robert M. Dyess, Jr.

Brigadier General Karen E. Dyson

Brigadier General Paul E. Funk, II

Brigadier General Harold J. Greene

Brigadier General William C. Hix

Brigadier General Stephen R. Lyons

Brigadier General Herbert R. McMaster, Jr.

Brigadier General John M. Murray

Brigadier General Richard P. Mustion

Brigadier General Michael K. Nagata

Brigadier General Bryan R. Owens

Brigadier General James F. Pasquarette

Brigadier General Lawarren V. Patterson

Brigadier General Aundre F. Piggee

Brigadier General Ross E. Ridge

Brigadier General John G. Rossi

Brigadier General Thomas C. Seamands

Brigadier General Michael H. Shields

Brigadier General Leslie C. Smith

Brigadier General John Uberti

Brigadier General Bryan G. Watson

Brigadier General Darrell K. Williams

Executive Calendar #627 to be Major General — Brig. Gen. Craig A. Bugno

Executive Calendar #628 to be Lieutenant General — Maj. Gen. David D. Halverson

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF MARCH 26, 2012

 112TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION

.-The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on March 27, 2012.8:45:02 P.M. -On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.8:45:00 P.M. -Mr. Reed moved that the House do now adjourn.7:18:51 P.M. -SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.7:10:35 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.7:09:42 P.M. -Mr. Webster filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 595.7:09:34 P.M. -On approving the Journal Agreed to by recorded vote: 310 – 80, 4 Present (Roll no. 129).7:02:28 P.M. -H.R. 2682Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.7:02:27 P.M. -H.R. 2682On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 370 – 24 (Roll no. 128).6:55:21 P.M. -H.R. 2682Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 2682 — “To provide end user exemptions from certain provisions of the Commodity Exchange Act and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and for other purposes.”6:55:08 P.M. -H.R. 2779Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.6:55:07 P.M. -H.R. 2779On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 357 – 36 (Roll no. 127).6:30:32 P.M. -H.R. 2779Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 2779 — “To exempt inter-affiliate swaps from certain regulatory requirements put in place by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.”6:30:31 P.M. -UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on adoption of motions to suspend the rules, and on agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal, all of which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.6:30:30 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 26.4:00:29 P.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.3:59:59 P.M. -H.R. 4014Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.3:59:57 P.M. -H.R. 4014On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.3:50:44 P.M. -H.R. 4014DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 4014.3:50:42 P.M. -H.R. 4014Considered under suspension of the rules.3:50:29 P.M. -H.R. 4014Mrs. Biggert moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 4014 — “To amend the Federal Deposit Insurance Act with respect to information provided to the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection.”3:50:16 P.M. -H.R. 3298At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mrs. Biggert objected to the vote on the grounds that a quorum was not present. Further proceedings on the motion were postponed. The point of no quorum was withdrawn.3:40:53 P.M. -H.R. 3298DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3298.3:40:51 P.M. -H.R. 3298Considered under suspension of the rules.3:40:27 P.M. -H.R. 3298Mrs. Biggert moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 3298 — “To establish the position of Special Assistant for Veterans Affairs in the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and for other purposes.”3:39:41 P.M. -H.R. 2682At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.3:20:30 P.M. -H.R. 2682DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2682.3:20:29 P.M. -H.R. 2682Considered under suspension of the rules.3:20:15 P.M. -H.R. 2682Mr. Garrett moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 2682 — “To provide end user exemptions from certain provisions of the Commodity Exchange Act and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and for other purposes.”3:20:04 P.M. -H.R. 2779At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.3:01:59 P.M. -H.R. 2779DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2779.3:01:57 P.M. -H.R. 2779Considered under suspension of the rules.3:01:38 P.M. -H.R. 2779Mr. Garrett moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 2779 — “To exempt inter-affiliate swaps from certain regulatory requirements put in place by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.”3:01:24 P.M. -The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until 6:30 p.m. today.3:00:00 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 26.2:15:00 P.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 3:00 P.M. today.2:13:18 P.M. -The Speaker laid before the House a message from the President transmitting a notification to add the Republic of South Sudan to the list of beneficiary developing countries under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program – referred to the Committee on Ways and Means and ordered to be printed (H. Doc. 112-95).2:11:44 P.M. -The Speaker laid before the House a message from the President transmitting a notification of his intention to suspend designation of Argentina as a beneficiary developing country under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program – referred to the Committee on Ways and Means and ordered to be printed (H. Doc. 112-94).2:03:34 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches.2:02:42 P.M. -PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Sablan to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.2:02:00 P.M. -POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS ON APPROVAL OF THE JOURNAL – The Chair announced that he had examined the Journal of the last day’s proceedings and had approved it. Mr. Sablan 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. Sablan objected to the voice vote based upon the absence of a quorum and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of the Speaker’s approval of the Journal until later in the legislative day. The point of no quorum was considered as withdrawn.2:00:23 P.M. -Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.2:00:11 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 26.12:08:45 P.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 2:00 P.M. today.12:01:17 P.M. -MORNING-HOUR DEBATE – The House proceeded with Morning-Hour Debate. At the conclusion of Morning-Hour, the House will recess until 2:00 p.m. for the start of legislative business.12:00:35 P.M. -The Speaker designated the Honorable Jeff Denham to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.12:00:16 P.M. -The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

Don’t let Congress double the student loan interest rate … Murshed Zaheed, CREDO Action


Tell Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid: FIGHT to stop Republicans from doubling the interest rate<br /> on student loans
            Clicking here will automatically add your name to this petition to      Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid:
            “Do not let the interest rate double on federal student loans. Extend the College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007, keeping college education affordable for the 99%.”            
      Automatically add your name:     
Take action now!      Learn more about this campaign

CREDO Action | more than a network, a movement.

Stop Republicans from doubling the interest rate on student loans.

Dear Friend,

This is unbelievable. The interest rates on federal student loans will double this summer if Congress doesn’t take action.1

Urge Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid: FIGHT to stop Republicans from doubling the interest rate on student loans. Click here to automatically sign the petition.

Millions of American students from working class families are able to obtain a college education thanks to low-interest federal student loans. But now Congress is putting those loans in serious jeopardy at a time when students and their families can least afford to pay higher interest rates.

Back in 2007, when the Democrats were in charge of both the Senate and the House of Representatives, Congress passed the College Cost Reduction and Access Act. It reduced the interest rates on subsidized Stafford loans incrementally over four academic years, from 6.8 percent at the time to the current 3.4 percent.2  The current Republican leadership in the House is planning to let this legislation expire on July 1, effectively doubling the interest rates on these loans. This will result in an average of $5,000 in additional payments for students who are scheduled to pay their loans backs in 5 years, and $11,000 for those who are paying back in 10.3

With Republicans in the House poised to double the interest on federal student loans, we need  leadership from the Senate.Specifically, we need Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to stand up and fight on behalf of millions of American students:

Urge Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid: FIGHT to stop Republicans from doubling the interest rate on student loans.

If Leader Reid leads the Democratic-controlled Senate to move first and take steps to pass legislation that ensures the interest rates remain fixed at 3.4 percent, it will force the hand of Congressional Republicans to either pass the measure or go on the record as the party fighting against the interest of millions of America’s working class students and their families.But we need both the House and the Senate to pass it before July 1, so we need to convey our sense of urgency to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid today.

Federal student loans with low interest rates, such as the subsidized Stafford loan, are designed to benefit students whose families make under $40,000 a year — folks who can least afford to see their interest rates jump.4 These loans help the neediest students, who are often not eligible to receive Pell Grants.  Adding further financial stress on these students and their families by letting the interest rates double this July would be devastating, especially given the extremely fragile state of our economy.

Urge Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid: FIGHT to stop Republicans from doubling the interest rate on student loans. Click here to automatically sign the petition.

As Sarah Jaffe observed in her excellent piece in AlterNet:

“It’s worth noting, as well, that many of the big banks that make a killing on private student loans and still have billions of government-subsidized student debt on their books, are able to borrow money from the government through the Federal Reserve’s discount window at nearly no interest at all. Why, then, are young people, who aren’t guilty of trashing the economy but remain the victims of a rate of unemployment nearly twice that of the rest of the population, expected to pay more?”5

Now is the time for all of us to speak up on behalf of our students. Click here to automatically sign the petition and consider inviting students from your personal network to join the fight.

Click below to automatically sign our petition urging Senator Reid to fight to keep college education affordable and not let the interest rate double on federal student loans.

http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=5541975&id=36922-5440681-yT2lVHx&t=12

Thank you for speaking out to make sure that all students can afford a higher education — including those from working class families.

Murshed Zaheed, Deputy Political Director CREDO Action from Working Assets

PS: This issue is deeply personal for me. Coming from a working class family, I have been able to pursue my own aspirations by working hard and getting a great education from amazing academic institutions. This opportunity would not have been possible for someone like me if I hadn’t had access to affordable federal student loans with low interest rates.  I hope you willjoin this cause on behalf of the students andconsider inviting any students you know in your personal network to join this fight by forwarding them this link:

http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=5541974&id=36922-5440681-yT2lVHx&t=15

1. Sarah Jaffe, “Is Congress Going to Double the Interest on Your Student Loan?,” AlterNet.org February 22, 2012. 2. Ann Carrns, “Rising Concerns Over Student Loans, Public and Private,” the New York Times Blog, March 14, 2012. 3. Sarah Jaffe, “Is Congress Going to Double the Interest on Your Student Loan?,” AlterNet.org February 22, 2012. 4. Moe Bedard, “Vermont Senators Leahy And Sanders Join Bill To Prevent July Interest Rate Increase On Stafford Student Loans,” LoanSafe.org, February 2, 2012. 5. Sarah Jaffe, “Is Congress Going to Double the Interest on Your Student Loan?,” AlterNet.org February 22, 2012.

Black History

Congress:the Republican led House continues their assault on Americans – the Senate resume consideration of H.R.3606, the Capital Formation/IPO bill


featured photo by flossboss

the Senate Convened at 9:30amET March 21, 2012

  • Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in morning business for one hour with the Republicans controlling the first half and the Majority controlling the final half.
  • Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R.3606, the Capital Formation/IPO bill.
  • The time from 2:30pm until 3:00pm will be as if in morning business to acknowledge the milestone reached by Senator Mikulski as the longest serving woman in Congress.

Following morning business (approx. 10:40am), the Senate will resume consideration of H.R.3606, the IPO bill, and immediately proceed to vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the bill.

Under the previous order, if cloture is invoked time would run as if cloture were invoked at 12:00 noon yesterday.

10:44am The Senate began a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on H.R.3606, the IPO bill; Invoked: 76-22

The following amendments are pending to H.R.3606, the Capital Formation/IPO bill:

The following amendments have been considered to H.R.3606, the Capital Formation/IPO bill:

The Reed (RI)-Landrieu-Levin amendment #1833 (substitute) and Cantwell amendment #1836 (Export Import Bank Reauthorization fell on a point of order that the amendments were not germane post-cloture.

Senator Reid then offered Merkley-Bennet et al amendment #1884 (crowdfunded securities) and Reed (RI) amendment #1931 (relating to the definition of the term “held of record”).

Under the previous order, the 30 hours of post-cloture debate time began counting as if cloture had been invoked at 12:00noon yesterday. If all time is used, cloture would expire at 6pm today, however, time may be yielded back and we could have 3 votes as early as 4pm.

Senator Durbin asked unanimous consent to pass Executive Calendar #319, S.1945, to permit the televising of Supreme Court proceedings. Senator Sessions then objected to the request.

Senator Sessions then asked unanimous consent to pass Executive Calendar #247, S.671, Finding Fugitive Sex Offenders Act, with a committee-reported amendment.

Senator Durbin then asked Senator Sessions to modify his request to pass S.671 and to include the following bills:

– Executive Calendar #246, S.1792, the Strengthening Investigations of Sex Offenders and Missing Children Act

– Executive Calendar #233, S.1793, the Investigative Assistant for Violent Crimes Act and

– Discharge Judiciary and Pass S.1669, the Dale Long Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Improvements Act, with a substitute amendment

Senator Sessions objected to Senator Durbin’s modification; subsequently Senator Durbin objected to Senator Sessions’ original request.

At approximately 12:30pm on Thursday, March 21st, there will be a series of up to 7 roll call votes in relation to the following:

  • Reed amendment #1931 (regarding the definition of “held of record” to the Merkley amendment #1884 to H.R.3606
  • Merkley amendment #1884, (CROWDFUND Act) as amended, if amended
  • Passage of H.R.3606, as amended, if amended
  • Motion to invoke cloture on the Reid motion to concur in the House amendment to S.2038, the STOCK Act (if cloture is invoked, the motion to concur will be agreed to by unanimous consent)
  • Confirmation of Executive Calendar #441, the nomination of David Nuffer, of UT, to be US District Judge for the District of Utah
  • Confirmation of Executive Calendar #462, the nomination of Ronnie Abrams, of NY, to be US District Judge for the Southern District of New York
  • Confirmation of Executive Calendar #463, the nomination of Rudolph Contreras, of VA, to be US District Judge for the District of Columbia.

There will be 2 minutes of debate prior to the votes on the Reed amendment, the Merkley amendment, passage of H.R.3606 and confirmation of the Nuffer nomination; there will be 4 minutes of debate prior to the cloture vote on the motion to concur with respect to the STOCK Act. We expect to order all votes after the first vote be 10 minutes in duration on Thursday.

The filing deadline for all 2nd degree amendments to the Reid motion to concur in the House amendment to S.2038, the STOCK Act is 10:30am Thursday. If your Senator has a germane second degree amendment and would like to preserve his or her ability to offer, please send a signed copy of the amendment to the cloakroom prior to the deadline.

ROLL CALL VOTES

1) Motion to invoke cloture on H.R.3606, the Capital Formation/IPO bill; Invoked: 75-22

LEGISLATIVE ITEMS

Adopted S.Res.403, to authorize testimony, document production, and legal representation in United States v. Richard F. “Dickie” Scruggs.

Discharged the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources from further consideration of H.R.306, Corolla Wild Horses Protection Act, and referred it to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.

WRAP UP

No EXECUTIVE ITEMS

————————————————————————————————————————————————-

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF March 21, 2012

  112TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION 

-The House adjourned pursuant to a previous special order. The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on March 22, 2012.9:42:16 P.M. -On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.9:42:02 P.M. -Mr. Gingrey (GA) moved that the House do now adjourn.8:45:29 P.M. -SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.8:44:59 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.8:44:07 P.M. -H.R. 5Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union rises leaving H.R. 5 as unfinished business.8:43:57 P.M. -H.R. 5On motion to rise Agreed to by voice vote.8:43:44 P.M. -H.R. 5Mr. Smith (TX) moved that the Committee rise.3:06:46 P.M. -H.R. 5GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with six hours of general debate on H.R. 5.3:06:20 P.M. -H.R. 5The Speaker designated the Honorable Lynn A. Westmoreland to act as Chairman of the Committee.3:06:20 P.M. -H.R. 5House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 591 and Rule XVIII.3:05:26 P.M. -H.R. 5Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 5 with 6 hours 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 an amendment in the nature of a substitute consisting of the text of Rules Committee Print 112-18 shall be considered as adopted and the bill, as amended, shall be considered as original text for the purpose of amendment. The resolution waives all points of order against provisions in the bill, as amended.3:05:21 P.M. -H.R. 5Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 591. H.R. 5 — “To improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system.”3:03:50 P.M. -On approving the Journal Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 308 – 101, 3 Present (Roll no. 121).2:57:22 P.M. -UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the vote on the question of agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal which had been postponed from earlier in the day.2:57:21 P.M. -H.R. 886Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.2:57:20 P.M. -H.R. 886On motion that the House suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendment Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 409 – 2, 2 Present (Roll no. 120).2:49:59 P.M. -H. Res. 591Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.2:49:58 P.M. -H. Res. 591On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by recorded vote: 233 – 182, 1 Present (Roll no. 119).2:41:03 P.M. -H. Res. 591On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 231 – 179, 1 Present (Roll no. 118).2:16:33 P.M. -H. Res. 591Considered as unfinished business. H. Res. 591 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 5) to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system.”2:16:20 P.M. -UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was on ordering the previous question to H. Res. 591 and on a motion to suspend the rules which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.2:15:00 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 21.1:48:56 P.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.1:48:02 P.M. -H. Res. 591POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on H. Res. 591, the Chair put the question on ordering the previoius question and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Hastings (FL) demanded the yeas and nays, and the Chair postponed further proceedings on ordering the previous question until later in the legislative day.12:49:06 P.M. -H. Res. 591DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 591.12:49:00 P.M. -H. Res. 591Considered as privileged matter. H. Res. 591 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 5) to improve patient access to health care services and provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden the liability system places on the health care delivery system.”12:48:16 P.M. -H.R. 886At 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.12:41:35 P.M. -H.R. 886DEBATE – The House proceeded with 40 minutes of debate on the motion to suspend the rules and concur in the Senate amendment to H.R. 886.12:41:00 P.M. -H.R. 886Mr. Stivers moved that the House suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendment.12:40:00 P.M. -The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until later in the legislative day.12:39:52 P.M. -Mr. Nugent asked unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 10:00 a.m. on March 22. Agreed to without objection.12:39:24 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 108Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.12:39:22 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 108On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.12:38:51 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 108Considered by unanimous consent. H. Con. Res. 108 — “Permitting the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for a ceremony as part of the commemoration of the days of remembrance of victims of the Holocaust.”12:38:41 P.M. -H. Con. Res. 108Mr. Nugent asked unanimous consent to discharge from committee and consider.12:02:44 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.12:02:32 P.M. -PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Ms. Slaughter to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.12:02:12 P.M. -POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS ON APPROVAL OF THE JOURNAL – The Chair announced that she had examined the Journal of the last day’s proceedings and had approved it. Mr. Miller (NC) 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. Miller (NC) 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.12:00:16 P.M. -Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Dr. Carl Hickerson, Springfield Baptist Church, Washington, DC.12:00:09 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 21.11:21:54 A.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 P.M. today.10:00:43 A.M. -MORNING-HOUR DEBATE – The House proceeded with Morning-Hour Debate. At the conclusion of Morning-Hour, the House will recess until 12:00 p.m. for the start of legislative business.10:00:14 A.M. -The Speaker designated the Honorable Renee L. Ellmers to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.10:00:03 A.M. -The House convened, starting a new legislative day.