Tag Archives: Senate

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Congress: – the Republican led House – the Senate


The Senate Convenes at 9:30amET April 6, 2011

Following any leader remarks, the Senate will be in a period of morning business until 11am with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each, with the time until 10:40am equally divided and controlled between the two leaders or their designees, with the Majority controlling the first half and the Republicans controlling the final half and and at 10:40am Senator Ayotte be recognized to deliver her maiden speech to the Senate.

Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of S.493, the Small Business Jobs bill. Senator Reid or his designee will be recognized to call up the following amendments:

– Baucus #236;

– Stabenow #277;

– Rockefeller #215;

– Coburn #217;

– Coburn #223;

– Coburn #273;

– Inouye #286;

The pending Sanders amendment #207 will be modified with the changes that are at the desk; the Senate will then debate the amendments concurrently until 4pm with the time equally divided between the two Leaders, or their designees, prior to votes in relation to the following amendments in the order listed below:

– Baucus #236;

– Stabenow #277;

– Rockefeller #215;

– McConnell #183;

– Coburn #223;

– Inouye #286; and

– Coburn #273;

There will be two minutes equally divided in between the votes; and all after the first vote will 10 minutes in duration; and the amendments will be subject to a 60 vote threshold.

Upon the disposition of the Coburn amendment #273, amendment #s 184 and 217 offered by Senator Coburn will be agreed to.

Therefore, Senators should expect up to 7 roll call votes at approximately 4pm in relation to amendments to the Small Business Jobs bill.

The following amendments are pending to S.493, SBIR and STTR Reauthorization Act of 2011:

– McConnell amendment #183 (Prohibits the EPA from regulating carbon pollution)

– Vitter amendment #178 (require Federal government to sell unused Federal real property).

– Johanns amendment #161 (1099 repeal)

– Cornyn amendment #186 (bipartisan commission)

– Paul amendment #199 (spending cuts)

– Sanders amendment #207, as modified (Social Security)

– Hutchison amendment #197 (Delay health care reform)

– Coburn amendment #184 (GAO Study)

– Pryor amendment #229 (Patriot Express Loan program)

– Landrieu amendment #244 to amendment #244 (effective date)

– Baucus #236 (EPA)

– Stabenow amendment #277 (EPA)

– Rockefeller amendment #215 (EPA)

– Coburn amendment #217 (covered bridge preservation)

– Coburn amendment #281 (UI for millionaires and billionaires)

– Coburn amendment #273 (duplicative programs)

– Inouye amendment #286 (duplicative programs)

Votes:

51: Baucus amendment #236: (greenhouse gas related exemptions from permitting process); Not Agreed to: 7-93

52: Stabenow amendment #277: (suspension of stationary source greenhouse gas regulations);

Not Agreed to, 7-93

53: Rockefeller amendment #215: (suspend any EPA action with respect to carbon dioxide or methane);

Not Agreed to: 12-88

54: McConnell amendment #183: (prohibits EPA from regulating greenhouse gas emissions);

Not Agreed to, 50-50

55: Coburn amendment #223: (end federal unemployment payments to jobless millionaires and billionaires);

Agreed To: 100-0

56: Inouye amendment #286: (consolidating unnecessary duplicative and overlapping government programs);

Not Agreed To: 57-42

57: Coburn amendment #273: (consolidating unnecessary duplicative and overlapping government programs);

Agreed To: 64-36.

This is the last vote of the day.

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The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on April 6, 2011.

 CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF APRIL 6, 2011

112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

7:24 P.M. –

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

7:20 P.M. –

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

Mr. Crenshaw asked unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 10:00 a.m. on April 7. Agreed to without objection.

H.R. 910:

to amend the Clean Air Act to prohibit the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency from promulgating any regulation concerning, taking action relating to, or taking into consideration the emission of a greenhouse gas to address climate change, and for other purposes

7:18 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.

7:17 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. 910.

7:16 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Kind amendment Failed by recorded vote: 160 – 264 (Roll no. 241).

7:11 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Doyle amendment Failed by recorded vote: 173 – 250 (Roll no. 240).

7:08 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Rush amendment Failed by recorded vote: 165 – 260 (Roll no. 239).

7:04 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Markey amendment Failed by recorded vote: 156 – 266 (Roll no. 238).

7:01 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Polis amendment Failed by recorded vote: 168 – 257 (Roll no. 237).

6:56 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Waxman amendment Failed by recorded vote: 184 – 240 (Roll no. 236).

6:50 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Murphy (CT) amendment Failed by recorded vote: 182 – 240 (Roll no. 235).

6:46 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment Failed by recorded vote: 157 – 266 (Roll no. 234).

6:42 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment Failed by recorded vote: 161 – 259 (Roll no. 233).

6:17 P.M. –

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

6:15 P.M. –

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

6:03 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 203, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Kind amendment in the nature of a substitute number 12.

Amendment in the nature of a substitute offered by Mr. Kind.

An amendment in the nature of a substitute numbered 12 printed in House Report 112-54 to codify the Environmental Protection Agency’s Tailoring Rule in order to protect farms, small businesses, and small- and medium-sized stationary sources from greenhouse gas regulation.

6:02 P.M. –

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

5:50 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 203, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Doyle amendment number 11.

Amendment offered by Mr. Doyle.

An amendment numbered 11 printed in House Report 112-54 to include a study to determine whether regulations of the Environmental Protection Agency under the Clean Air Act to address climate change, if not repealed or otherwise made unauthorized by section 2 of the bill, would cause greenhouse gas leakage and reduce the international competitiveness of United States producers of energy-intensive products.

5:49 P.M. –

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

5:37 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 203, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Rush amendment number 10.

Amendment offered by Mr. Rush.

An amendment numbered 10 printed in House Report 112-54 to prevent the provisions of this act from going into effect until the EPA Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, certifies that the consequences of not regulating greenhouse gas emissions, and its subsequent impact on climate change, including the potential to create sustained natural and humanitarian disasters and the ability to likely foster political instability where societal demands exceed the capacity of governments to cope, do not jeopardize American security interests at home or abroad.

5:36 P.M. –

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

5:24 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 203, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Markey amendment number 9.

Amendment offered by Mr. Markey.

An amendment numbered 9 printed in House Report 112-54 to ensure that any prohibition on or limitation to EPA’s Clean Air Act authority contained in the bill would not apply to any action EPA could take to reduce demand for oil.

5:23 P.M. –

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

5:10 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 203, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Polis (CO) amendment number 8.

Amendment offered by Mr. Polis.

An amendment numbered 8 printed in House Report 112-54 to ensure the EPA Administrator can protect the public health in case of public health emergency.

5:09 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Quigley amendment Failed by voice vote.

5:00 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 203, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Quigley amendment number 7.

Amendment offered by Mr. Quigley.

An amendment numbered 7 printed in House Report 112-54 to require GAO to report to Congress the results of a study of health care costs in the U.S. as affected by the elimination of EPA regulation under this Act, as compared to health care costs in the U.S. as would be affected by the EPA proceeding under their regulating authority as determined in Massachusetts v. EPA.

4:59 P.M. –

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

4:49 P.M. –

Amendment offered by Mr. Waxman.

An amendment numbered 6 printed in House Report 112-54 to add a new section with respect to Congressional Acceptance of Scientific Findings: Congress accepts the scientific findings of the Environmental Protection Agency that climate changes is occurring, is caused largely by human activities, and poses significant risks for public health and welfare.

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 203, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Waxman amendment number 6.

4:48 P.M. –

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

4:45 P.M. –

ORDER OF PROCEDURE – Mr. Upton asked unanimous consent to extend debate time by 1 minute on each side on the amendment. Agreed to without objection.

4:32 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 203, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Murphy (CT) amendment number 5.

Amendment offered by Mr. Murphy (CT).

An amendment numbered 5 printed in House Report 112-54 to clarify that the Agency can continue to provide technical assistance to states taking action to limit greenhouse gas emissions.

4:31 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Cuellar amendment Failed by voice vote.

4:22 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 203, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Cuellar amendment number 4.

Amendment offered by Mr. Cuellar.

An amendment numbered 4 printed in House Report 112-54 to amend the definition of greenhouse gas, to remove water vapor as a part of the definition, amend the act by striking the removal of existing EPA findings and rules, and exempt all auto standards from the legislation.

4:21 P.M. –

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

4:20 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 203, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the McNerney amendment number 3.

Amendment offered by Mr. McNerney.

An amendment numbered 3 printed in House Report 112-54 to clarify that voluntary programs addressing climate change classify as exceptions to the bill’s prohibitions.

4:19 P.M. –

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

4:07 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 203, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment number 2.

Amendment offered by Ms. Jackson Lee (TX).

An amendment numbered 2 printed in House Report 112-54 to insert a new section to provide considerations and procedures in finalizing greenhouse gas regulations.

4:06 P.M. –

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

3:54 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 203, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment number 1.

Amendment offered by Ms. Jackson Lee (TX).

An amendment numbered 1 printed in House Report 112-54 to require an EPA study to determine the long term impact of a complete ban on their authority to regulate greenhouse gases.

2:40 P.M. –

GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 910.

2:39 P.M. –

The Speaker designated the Honorable Steve Womack 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. 203 and Rule XVIII.

Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 910 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. All points of order against consideration of the bill are waived. The bill shall be considered for amendment under the five-minute rule. It shall be in order to consider as an original bill for the purpose of amendment under the five-minute rule the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Energy and Commerce. All points of order againist the committee amendment in the nature of a substitute are waived.

Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 203.

2:38 P.M. –

On approving the Journal Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 321 – 98, 1 Present (Roll no. 232).

2:31 P.M. –

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was on the question of adoption of the Speaker’s approval of the Journal.

H. Res. 203:

providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 910) to amend the Clean Air Act to prohibit to Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency from promulgating any regulation concerning, taking action relating to, or taking into consideration the emission of a greenhouse gas to address climate change, and for other purposes

2:30 P.M. –

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

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by recorded vote: 250 – 172 (Roll no. 231).

2:22 P.M. –

On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 266 – 158 (Roll no. 230).

12:56 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 203.

12:54 P.M. –

Considered as privileged matter.

12:53 P.M. –

On motion to adjourn Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 36 – 367 (Roll no. 229).

12:29 P.M. –

Mr. Jackson (IL) moved that the House do now adjourn.

12:04 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.

12:03 P.M. –

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mrs. Hartzler to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – The Chair announced that he had examined the Journal of the last day’s proceedings and had approved it. Mr. Poe 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. Poe 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.

12:01 P.M. –

Today’s prayer was offered by Bishop Henry Fernandez, The Faith Center, Sunrise, Florida

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of April 6.

10:50 A.M. –

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

10:00 A.M. –

MORNING-HOUR DEBATES – The House proceeded with Morning-Hour Debates. At the conclusion of Morning-Hour, the House will recess until 12:00 p.m. for the start of legislative business.

The Speaker designated the Honorable Renee L. Ellmers to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

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Congress: In Session -the Republican led House -the Senate out until 4/5 -which Political Party works for”We the People”


The Senate Convenes at 2pmET April 5, 2011

Following any leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to a period of morning business until 4:30pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

Following morning business, the Senate will the Senate proceed to Executive Session to consider Calendar #42, Jimmie V. Reyna, of Maryland, to be United States Circuit Judge with one hour for debate equally divided and controlled between Senators Leahy and Grassley.

5:30pm roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #42, Jimmie V. Reyna, of Maryland, to be United States Circuit Judge.

Additionally, Senators should expect 2 roll call votes in relation to H.R.4, 1099 repeal on Tuesday prior to the caucus meetings.

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF APRIL 1, 2011

112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

4:48 P.M. –

The House adjourned pursuant to a previous special order. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. on April 4, 2011.

On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.

Mr. Burton (IN) moved that the House do now adjourn.

2:59 P.M. –

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

H.R. 1255:

to prevent a shutdown of the government of the United States, and for other purposes

2:54 P.M. –

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

On passage Passed by recorded vote: 221 – 202, 1 Present (Roll no. 224).

2:47 P.M. –

On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 188 – 237 (Roll no. 223).

2:23 P.M. –

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

2:13 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Walz (MN) 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 that strikes all after the enacting clause and inserts a new text entitled “PROHIBITION ON PAY DURING GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN”

2:12 P.M. –

Mr. Walz (MN) moved to recommit with instructions to House Administration.

2:11 P.M. –

The previous question was ordered without objection.

12:52 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H.R. 1255.

Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 1255 with 1 hour of general debate. Motion to recommit allowed. Measure will be considered read. Bill is closed to amendments. The resolution waives all points of order against consideration of the bill.

Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 194.

H. Res. 194:

providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 1255) to prevent a shutdown of the government of the United States, and for other purposes

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

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by recorded vote: 229 – 187 (Roll no. 222).

12:46 P.M. –

On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 230 – 187 (Roll no. 221).

12:39 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question of ordering the previous question on H.Res. 194 which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.

H.R. 658:

to amend title 49, United States Code, to authorize appropriations for the Federal Aviation Administration for fiscal years 2011 through 2014, to streamline programs, create efficiencies, reduce waste, and improve aviation safety and capacity, to provide stable funding for the national aviation system, and for other purposes

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

On passage Passed by recorded vote: 223 – 196 (Roll no. 220).

12:33 P.M. –

On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 184 – 235 (Roll no. 219).

12:17 P.M. –

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

12:08 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Loretta Sanchez 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 adding Title XIII- Security of Highest-Risk Airline Passenger Flights. A point of order was reserved, but was subsequently removed.

Ms. Sanchez, Loretta moved to recommit with instructions to Transportation.

12:07 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.

The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.

12:06 P.M. –

The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 658.

On agreeing to the Shuster amendment Agreed to by recorded vote: 215 – 209 (Roll no. 218).

12:00 P.M. –

On agreeing to the LaTourette amendment Failed by recorded vote: 206 – 220 (Roll no. 217).

11:53 A.M. –

On agreeing to the Sessions amendment Failed by recorded vote: 183 – 238 (Roll no. 216).

11:46 A.M. –

On agreeing to the Schiff amendment Failed by recorded vote: 178 – 243 (Roll no. 215).

11:39 A.M. –

On agreeing to the Pearce amendment Failed by recorded vote: 207 – 215 (Roll no. 214).

11:12 A.M. –

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

Considered as unfinished business.

H. Res. 194:

providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 1255) to prevent a shutdown of the government of the United States, and for other purposes

11:11 A.M. –

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on H.Res. 194, the Chair put the question on ordering the previous question on H.Res. 194 and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Ms. Slaughter demanded the yeas and nays and the Chair postponed further proceedings on ordering the previous question on H.Res. 194 until later in the legislative day.

10:03 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 194.

Considered as privileged matter.

10:02 A.M. –

On motion to consider the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 219 – 172 (Roll no. 213).

9:16 A.M. –

QUESTION OF CONSIDERATION – Mr. Ellison stated that H.Res. 194 violated section 426(a) of the Congressional Budget Act by imposing an unfunded mandate. Subsequently, the Chair noted that the required threshold of identifying the specific language in question had been met, and the House proceeded with 20 minutes of debate on the question of consideration, after which, the Chair would put the question to wit: Will the House now consider the resolution?

9:15 A.M. –

Mr. Woodall moved to consider the resolution.

9:02 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.

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

9:01 A.M. –

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

9:00 A.M. –

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

The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

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Congress: is in Session …the Republican led House -the Senate


The Senate Convened at 9:30amET March 30, 2011

Following any leader remarks, the Senate will be in a period of morning business until 4:00pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of S.493, the Small Business Jobs bill.

The following amendments are pending to S.493, SBIR and STTR Reauthorization Act of 2011:

– McConnell amendment #183 (Prohibits the EPA from regulating carbon pollution)

– Vitter amendment #178 (require Federal government to sell unused Federal real property).

– Johanns amendment #161 (1099 repeal)

– Cornyn amendment #186 (bipartisan committion)

– Paul amendment #199 (spending cuts)

– Sanders amendment #207 (Social Security)

– Hutchison amendment #197 (Delay health care reform)

– Coburn amendment #184 (GAO Study)

– Pryor amendment #229 (Patriot Express Loan program)

– landrieu amendment #244 to amendment #244 (effective date)

Paul motion to commit S.493 to report back forthwith amendment #276 (military force)

Unanimous Consent:

Adopted S. Res.112, congratulating the Pennsylvania State University IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon (“THON”) on its continued success in support of the Four Diamonds Fund at Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital.

Adopted S.Res.118, designating April 2011 as “National 9-1-1 Education Month”.

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF MARCH 30, 2011

112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

to reauthorize the DC opportunity scholarship program, and for other purposes

5:01 P.M. –

On passage Roll Call 204 – Recorded vote pending.

On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by recorded vote: (Roll No. 203).

4:43 P.M. –

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

4:34 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Cummings 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 which strikes all after the enacting clause and inserts two sections. Section 1 is entitled “FUNDING FOR DC PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND DC PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS”. Section 2 is entitled “AUTHORIZATION FOR APPROPRIATIONS”.

4:33 P.M. –

Mr. Cummings moved to recommit with instructions to Oversight and Government.

4:30 P.M. –

Point of order raised by Mr. Weiner on the content of the measure. Mr. Weiner stated that the provisions of bill violates clause 10(a) of Rule XXI. The Chair stated that the point of order was not timely.

4:28 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Norton amendment Failed by the Yeas and Nays: (Roll No. 202).

3:20 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 186, the House proceeded with 40 minutes of debate on the Norton substitute amendment.

3:19 P.M. –

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

An amendment printed in House Report 112-45 to redirect the religious and other private school voucher funding to District of Columbia public schools and District of Columbia public charter schools.

2:08 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H.R. 471.

2:07 P.M. –

Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 471 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. A specified amendment is in order. The amendment recommended by the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform now printed in the bill shall be considered as adopted. All points of order against consideration of the bill are waived.

Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 186.

On approving the Journal Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 309 – 107, 1 Present (Roll no. 201).

H. Res. 186:

providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 471) to reauthorize the DC opportunity scholarship program, and for other purposes

1:59 P.M. –

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

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 235 – 178 (Roll no. 200).

1:52 P.M. –

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on adoption of H.Res. 186 and the Speaker’s approval of the Journal, all of which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.

H. Res. 186:

providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 471) to reauthorize the DC opportunity scholarship program, and for other purposes

On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 237 – 182 (Roll no. 199).

12:26 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 186.

12:25 P.M. –

Considered as privileged matter.

12:04 P.M. –

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

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

12:03 P.M. –

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – The Chair announced that he had examined the Journal of the last day’s proceedings and had approved it. Mrs. Miller (MI) 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. Mrs. Miller (MI) demanded the Yeas and Nays and the Chair announced that further proceedings on the question of agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal would be postponed until later in the legislative day.

12:02 P.M. –

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

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 30.

10:59 A.M. –

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

10:01 A.M. –

MORNING-HOUR DEBATE – The House proceeded with Morning-Hour Debates. At the conclusion of Morning-Hour, the House will recess until 12:00 p.m. for the start of legislative business.

10:00 A.M. –

The Speaker designated the Honorable Robert Hurt to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

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Congress: In Session -the Republican led House -the Senate


The Senate Convenes at 10:00amET March 29, 2011

Following any leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to a period of morning business for one hour with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each with the time equally divided and controlled between the two leaders or their designees with the Majority controlling the first half and the Republicans controlling the final half.

Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of S.493, the Small Business Jobs bill.

The Senate will stand in recess from 12:30pm until 2:15pm for the weekly caucus meetings.

Roll call votes in relation to amendments to the small business jobs bill are possible during Tuesday’s session. Senators will be notified when any votes are scheduled.

The following amendments are pending to S.493, SBIR and STTR Reauthorization Act of 2011:

– McConnell amendment #183 (Prohibits the EPA from regulating carbon pollution)

– Vitter amendment #178 (require Federal government to sell unused Federal real property).

– Johanns amendment #161 (1099 repeal)

– Cornyn amendment #186 (bipartisan committion)

– Paul amendment #199 (spending cuts)

– Sanders amendment #207 (Social Security)

– Hutchison amendment #197 (Delay health care reform)

– Coburn amendment #184 (GAO Study)

– Pryor amendment #229 (Patriot Express Loan program)

– landrieu amendment #244 to amendment #244 (effective date)

Unanimous Consent:

Adopted S.Res.114, a resolution honoring Geraldine Ferraro, former United States Representative from New York, and extending the condolences of the Senate on her death.

Passed H.R.1079, the Airport and Airway Extension Act of 2011 (provides a short term extension through June 1, 2011).

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

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF MARCH 29, 2011

112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

7:56 P.M. –

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

7:47 P.M. –

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

H.R. 1148:

to prohibit commodities and securities trading based on nonpublic information relating to Congress, to require additional reporting by Members and employees of Congress of securities transactions, and for other purposes

7:46 P.M. –

RE-REFERRAL – Mr. Bachus asked unanimous consent that H.R. 1148 be re-referred primarily to the Committee on Financial Services and additionally to the Committees on Agriculture, House Administration, the Judiciary, Ethics and Rules. Agreed to without objection.

H.R. 839:

to amend the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 to terminate the authority of the Secretary of the Treasury to provide new assistance under the Home Affordable Modification Program, while preserving assistance to homeowners who were already extended an offer to participate in the Program, either on a trial or permanent basis

7:45 P.M. –

The Clerk was authorized to correct section numbers, punctuation, and cross references, and to make other necessary technical and conforming corrections in the engrossment of H.R. 839 as may be necessary to reflect the actions of the House in amending the bill, to include striking “paragraph (1)” on page 5, line 16, and inserting in lieu thereof “subparagraph (A)”.

7:44 P.M. –

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

On passage Passed by recorded vote: 252 – 170, 1 Present (Roll no. 198).

7:37 P.M. –

On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 185 – 238, 1 Present (Roll no. 197).

7:21 P.M. –

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

7:11 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Larsen (WA) 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 which adds a new paragraph entitled “CONTINUATION OF PROGRAM FOR MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES AND GOLD STAR RECIPIENTS”.

Mr. Larsen (WA) moved to recommit with instructions to Financial Services.

7:10 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.

The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.

7:09 P.M. –

The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 839.

7:08 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Maloney amendment Failed by recorded vote: 173 – 249 (Roll no. 196).

7:02 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment Failed by recorded vote: 182 – 239 (Roll no. 195).

6:57 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Hanna amendment Agreed to by recorded vote: 247 – 170 (Roll no. 194).

6:36 P.M. –

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

6:34 P.M. –

The Speaker designated the Honorable Ted Poe 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. 170 and Rule XVIII.

Considered as unfinished business.

6:33 P.M. –

Mr. Bishop (UT) filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 186.

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 29.

5:00 P.M. –

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

H.R. 839:

to amend the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 to terminate the authority of the Secretary of the Treasury to provide new assistance under the Home Affordable Modification Program, while preserving assistance to homeowners who were already extended an offer to participate in the Program, either on a trial or permanent basis

4:58 P.M. –

Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union rises leaving H.R. 839 as unfinished business.

On motion that the committee rise Agreed to by voice vote.

4:57 P.M. –

Mrs. Biggert moved that the committee rise.

On agreeing to the Sanchez, Loretta amendment Agreed to by voice vote.

4:51 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 170, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with ten minutes of debate on the Loretta Sanchez amendment.

Amendment offered by Ms. Sanchez, Loretta.

An amendment numbered 9 printed in Part A of House Report 112-34 to add the Sense of Congress language to the end of the bill that banks are encouraged to work with homeowners to provide loan modifications for those qualifying and assist homeowners and prospective homeowners with foreclosure prevention programs and information on loan modifications

4:50 P.M. –

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

4:39 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 170, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with ten minutes of debate on the Maloney amendment.

Amendment offered by Mrs. Maloney.

An amendment numbered 8 printed in Part A of House Report 112-34 to include a list of the number of trial and permanent modifications started under the HAMP program in each state as well as the number of seriously delinquent mortgages across the country that will not be able to be eligible for HAMP modifications because Congress is terminating the program.

4:38 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Matsui amendment Failed by voice vote.

4:31 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 170, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with ten minutes of debate on the Matsui amendment.

4:30 P.M. –

Amendment offered by Ms. Matsui.

An amendment numbered 7 printed in Part A of House Report 112-34 to require mortgage lenders and services participating in the HAMP program to continue to publicly report basic loan modification information.

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Jackson Lee(TX) amendment, the Chair put the question on the amendment and by voice vote, announced the noes had prevailed. Ms. Jackson Lee(TX) demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the amendment until later in the legislative day.

4:21 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 170, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with ten minutes of debate on the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment.

Amendment offered by Ms. Jackson Lee (TX).

An amendment numbered 6 printed in Part A of House Report 112-34 to require a study and report submitted to Congress determining the successful aspects of HAMP, and legislative recommendations for a replacement loan modification program.

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

4:14 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 170, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with ten minutes of debate on the Waters amendment.

Amendment offered by Ms. Waters.

An amendment numbered 5 printed in Part A of House Report 112-34 to require the Secretary of the Treasury to send a letter to HAMP applicants that they will not be considered for a modification due to termination of the program and that they can contact their Member of Congress for assistance in negotiating with or acquiring a loan modification from their servicer

4:13 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Miller (NC) amendment Failed by voice vote.

4:08 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 170, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with ten minutes of debate on the Miller (NC) amendment.

Amendment offered by Mr. Miller (NC).

An amendment numbered 4 printed in Part A of House Report 112-34 to direct the Secretary, upon termination of the Home Affordable Modification Program, to undertake a study of the use of the program by covered homeowners, and also of the effectiveness of the program in assisting these homeowners. Following completion of that study, the Secretary would be required to implement a new program to assist the same group of homeowners based on the study’s findings.

4:07 P.M. –

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

3:56 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 170, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with ten minutes of debate on the Canseco amendment.

Amendment offered by Mr. Canseco.

An amendment numbered 3 printed in Part A of House Report 112-34 to ensure that all taxpayer funds saved from elimination of the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) are used to reduce the deficit.

3:55 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Ellison amendment Failed by voice vote.

3:43 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 170, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with ten minutes of debate on the Ellison amendment.

Amendment offered by Mr. Ellison.

An amendment numbered 2 printed in Part A of House Report 112-34 to include Congressional findings on various facts about the HAMP program, including cost and number of permanent modifications.

3:42 P.M. –

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

3:33 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 170, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with ten minutes of debate on the Hanna amendment.

Amendment offered by Mr. Hanna.

An amendment numbered 1 printed in Part A of House Report 112-34 to include findings detailing the Home Affordable Modification Program’s (HAMP’s) flaws and state that terminating HAMP would save taxpayers approximately $1.4 billion.

2:24 P.M. –

GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 839.

The Speaker designated the Honorable Ted Poe 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. 170 and Rule XVIII.

2:22 P.M. –

Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 839 and H.R. 861 with 1 hour of general debate. Previous question shall be considered as ordered without intervening motions except motion to recommit with or without instructions. Measures will be considered read. Specified amendments are in order. With respect to each measure, the resolution provides that the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Financial Services now printed in the bill shall be considered as an original bill for the purpose of amendment and shall be considered as read.

Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 170.

H.R. 1079:

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 the airport improvement program, and for other purposes

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.

2:10 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 1079.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

2:09 P.M. –

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

2:06 P.M. –

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

2:05 P.M. –

Committee on Ethics – Pursuant to clause 5(a)(4)(A) of Rule X of the Rules of the House of Representatives, the Minority Leader appointed the following Members to be available to serve on investigative subcommittees of the Committee on Ethics: Ms. Lofgren, Zoe of CA, Mr. Chandler, Mr. Sarbanes, Ms. Sewell, Mr. Tonko, Mr. Lujan, Mr. Cicilline, Mr. Keating, Mr. Schiff, and Ms. CLarke of NY.

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 received a message from the Secretary of the Senate on March 17, 2011 at 6:52 p.m. stating that that body had agreed to H. Con. Res. 30.

2:03 P.M. –

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

2:02 P.M. –

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

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

2:01 P.M. –

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

2:00 P.M. –

The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

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Congress: … 3/29 -the Republican led House -the Senate 3/28


The Senate Convenes at 2:00pmET March 28, 2011

Following any leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to a period of morning business until 3pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of S.493, the Small Business Jobs bill.

At 4:30pm, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to consider Calendar #40, the nomination of Mae D-Agostino, of NY, to be US District Judge for the Northern District of NY for one hour of debate equally divided and controlled between Senators Leahy and Grassley or their designees.

At approximately 5:30pm, the Senate will proceed to a roll call vote on confirmation of the D’Agostino nomination.

Votes:

46: Confirmation of the nomination of Mae D-Agostino, of NY, to be US District Judge for the Northern District of NY;

Confirmed: 88-0

This will be the last vote of the day.

Unanimous Consent:

The Senate confirmed the following nominations:

Coast Guard

Cal. 69 Brian M. Salerno, to be Vice Admiral

Cal. 70 John P. Currier, to be Vice Admiral

Cal.71 Robert C. Parker, to be Vice Admiral

Cal. 72 Manson K. Brown, to be Vice Admiral

And all nominations placed on the Secretary’s Desk in NOAA and the Coast Guard

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

The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on March 18, 2011 unless the House sooner receives a message from the Senate indicating its adoption of H. Con. Res. 30, in which case the House stands adjourned until March 29, 2011.