Tag Archives: Senate

The Obameter: Tracking Obama’s Campaign Promises …from PolitiFact


PolitiFact has compiled about 500 promises that Barack Obama made during the campaign and is tracking their progress on our Obameter. We rate their status as No Action, In the Works or Stalled. Once we find action is completed, we rate them Promise Kept, Compromise or Promise Broken.

In the Works

No. 1: Increase the capital gains and dividends taxes for higher-income taxpayers

Increase capital gains and dividends taxes from 15 to 20 percent for those making more than $250,000 (couples) or $200,000 (single)

>>More

In the Works

No. 2: Eliminate all oil and gas tax loopholes

“Eliminating special tax breaks for oil and gas companies: including repealing special expensing rules, foreign tax credit benefits, and manufacturing deductions for oil and gas firms.”

>>More

Compromise

No. 3: Eliminate capital gains taxes for small businesses and start-ups

“Barack Obama understands that small businesses are the engines of our economy, and he will eliminate all capital gains taxes on investments in small and start-up firms.”

>>More

In the Works

No. 4: Extend child tax credits and marriage-penalty fixes

Will extend aspects of the Bush tax cuts such as child credit expansions and changes to marriage bonuses and penalties.

>>More

Compromise

No. 5: Expand the earned income tax credit

Expand the earned income tax credit for workers without children and taxpayers with more than three children. Equalize threshholds for married filers and head of household filers.

>>More

Promise Kept

No. 6: Create an Advanced Manufacturing Fund to invest in peer-reviewed manufacturing processes

“Will create an Advanced Manufacturing Fund to identify and invest in the most compelling advanced manufacturing strategies. The Fund will have a peer-review selection and award process based on the Michigan 21st Century Jobs Fund, a state-level initiative that has awarded over $125 million to Michigan businesses with the most innovative proposals to create new products and new jobs in the state.”

>>More

In the Works

No. 7: Double funding for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, a program that encourages manufacturing efficiency

“The Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) works with manufacturers across the country to improve efficiency, implement new technology and strengthen company growth. This highly-successful program has engaged in more than 350,000 projects across the country and in 2006 alone, helped create and protect over 50,000 jobs. But despite this success, funding for MEP has been slashed by the Bush administration. Barack Obama and Joe Biden will double funding for the MEP so its training centers can continue to bolster the competitiveness of U.S. manufacturers.”

>>More

In the Works

No. 8: Include environmental and labor standards in trade agreements

“He will use trade agreements to spread good labor and environmental standards around the world”

>>More

Stalled

No. 10: Expand the child and dependent care credit

Expand and make refundable the child and dependent care credit.

>>More

Stalled

No. 11: Require publicly traded financial partnerships to pay the corporate income tax

Require publicly traded financial partnerships to pay the corporate income tax.

>>More

In the Works

No. 12: Create an international tax haven watch list

Create an international tax haven watch list of countries that do not share information returns with the United States.

>>More

Stalled

No. 14: Close loopholes in the corporate tax deductibility of CEO pay

Congress has set rules regarding the tax deductibility of the salaries of CEOs, but forms of non-salary compensation have become popular. Obama would look at revamping definitions of compensation.

>>More

Compromise

No. 15: Create a foreclosure prevention fund for homeowners

Create a $10 billion fund to help homeowners refinance or sell their homes. “The Fund will not help speculators, people who bought vacation homes or people who falsely represented their incomes.”

>>More

Promise Kept

No. 16: Increase minority access to capital

“Strengthen Small Business Administration programs that provide capital to minority-owned businesses, support outreach programs that help minority business owners apply for loans, and work to encourage the growth and capacity of minority firms.”

>>More

Promise Kept

No. 17: Require economic justification for tax changes

Adopt the economic substance doctrine, a policy that states that tax changes must have significant economic justification, as a federal law.

>>More

Stalled

No. 18: Provide option for a pre-filled-out tax form

Will direct the Internal Revenue Service to “give taxpayers the option of a pre-filled tax form to verify, sign and return to the IRS or online. This will eliminate the need for Americans to hire expensive tax preparers and to gather information that the federal government already has on file.”

>>More

Stalled

No. 19: Create a mortgage interest tax credit for non-itemizers

Create a refundable tax credit equal to 10 percent of mortgage interest for nonitemizers, up to a maximum credit of $800.

>>More

In the Works

No. 20: Make permanent the Research & Development tax credit

The Research & Development tax credit and the renewable energy production tax credit are intended to spur innovation in the private sector, but the tax credits have expiration dates under current law. Obama would make them permanent.

>>More

In the Works

No. 21: Require automatic enrollment in 401(k) plans

Automatic enrollment in 401(k) plans for workers whose employers offer retirement plans.

>>More

In the Works

No. 22: Require automatic enrollment in IRA plans

Require employers who do not offer retirement plans to offer their workers access to automatic IRAs and contribute via payroll deduction.

>>More

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what is going on in Congress -it’s in Session -lame duck


The Senate Convenes: 9:30amET on December 8, 2010

Following any Leader remarks, there will be a live quorum to resume the court of impeachment of Judge G. Thomas Porteous, Jr. Once a quorum is established, the Senate will proceed to a series of up to 5 roll call votes in relation to the impeachment motions and articles.

Motion that the Articles are improperly aggregated.
• Article I (improperly denied a motion to recuse based on a corrupt financial relationship)
Article II (alleges a pattern of corrupt conduct based on improper structuring of bail bonds)
Article III (intentionally made material false statements in a personal bankruptcy filing)
Article IV (knowingly made false statements to the Senate and FBI during his confirmation process)
Senators will be voting from their desks and they are encouraged to remain seated until all votes have been completed.
Upon conclusion of the court of impeachment, the Senate will recess subject to the call of the Chair in order to clear the chamber. Upon reconvening, the Senate will resume consideration of the motion to proceed to Calendar #661, S.3991, the Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act of 2009, with the time until 12:30pm equally divided and controlled between the Leaders or their designees.

The Senate will recess from 12:30pm until 3:30pm to allow for the Democratic caucus meeting.

At 3:30pm, the Senate will resume consideration of the motion to proceed to S.3391. There will then be an additional 30 minutes of debate equally divided between the Leaders or their designees. Upon the use or yielding back of time, the Senate will proceed to a series of up to 4 roll call votes.

– Cloture on the motion to proceed to Calendar #662, S.3991, the Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act of 2009 (commonly known as Firefighters Collective Bargaining);
– Cloture on the motion to proceed to Calendar #655, S.3985, the Emergency Senior Citizens relief Act of 2010;
– Cloture on the motion to proceed to Calendar #663, S.3992, the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act of 2010 (DREAM Act); and
– Cloture on the motion to proceed to Calendar #641, H.R.847, the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010.

If cloture is invoked on a motion to proceed, there would then be up to 30 hours for debate.

If cloture fails on all 4 motions, there is a possibility that Senator Reid would reconsider the failed cloture vote on the motion to proceed to S.3454, DoD Authorization.

Votes:
260: Motion that notwithstanding Impeachment Rule 23, the Senate shall disaggregate the articles of impeachment by holding preliminary votes on individual allegations in the articles;
Not Agreed To: 0-94.

261: Article I (improperly denied a motion to recuse based on a corrupt financial relationship);
Guilty: 96-0

262: Article II (alleges a pattern of corrupt conduct based on improper structuring of bail bonds)
Guilty: 69-27

263: Article III (intentionally made material false statements in a personal bankruptcy filing);
Guilty: 88-8

264: Article IV (knowingly made false statements to the Senate and FBI during his confirmation process)
Guilty: 90-6

265: Reid motion that Judge Porteous be disqualified from holding office at any time in the future of the United States;
Agreed To: 94-2

266: Cloture on the Motion to Proceed to S.3991, Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act of 2009;
Not Invoked: 55-43

267: Now voting on Cloture on the motion to proceed to Calendar #655, S.3985, the Emergency Senior Citizens relief Act of 2010;
Not Invoked: 53-45

Not Invoked: 53-45

Unanimous Consent:
Passed H.R.4994, Medicare and Medicaid Extenders Act of 2010 (with a substitute amendment and an amendment to the title)

Passed H.R.4337, the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act (with a Bingaman substitute amendment)

Passed S.3167, the Census Oversight Efficiency and Management Reform Act (with a Carper amendment)

Passed S.3036, the National Alzheimer’s Project Act

Adopted S.Res.697, a resolution recognizing the 15th anniversary of the Dayton Peace Accords

(((((((((((((((((((((((((()))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))0(((((((((((((((((((((((((()

The next meeting in the House is scheduled for 10:00amET on December 8, 2010

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF DECEMBER 8, 2010
111TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION


. 9:18 P.M. –

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

9:17 P.M. –

Mr. Poe of TX requested the following general leaves to address the House on December 15: himself for 5 min and Mr. Jones for 5 min.

9:10 P.M. –

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

H.R. 3353:

to provide for American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas to be treated as States for certain criminal justice programs

9:02 P.M. –

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

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.

Considered as unfinished business.

9:01 P.M. –

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on a motion to suspend the rules which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.

H.R. 5281:

to amend title 28, United States Code, to clarify and improve certain provisions relating to the removal of litigation against Federal officers or agencies to Federal courts, and for other purposes

9:00 P.M. –

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

On motion to to agree to the Senate amendments numbered 1 and 2, and that the House agree to the Senate amendment numbered 3 with an amendment Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 216 – 198 (Roll no. 625).

8:34 P.M. –

The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.

7:45 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House continued with further debate on H.R. 5281.

The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate passed H.R. 4994 amended, and S. 3036.

H.R. 5281:

to amend title 28, United States Code, to clarify and improve certain provisions relating to the removal of litigation against Federal officers or agencies to Federal courts, and for other purposes

6:55 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on the Senate amendments to H.R. 5281.

6:54 P.M. –

Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 1756, the House moved to agree to the Senate amendments numbered 1 and 2, and that the House agree to the Senate amendment numbered 3 with an amendment.

Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1756, the Chair recognized Mr. Conyers for a motion.

S. 3998:

to extend the Child Safety Pilot Program

6:51 P.M. –

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by recorded vote (2/3 required): 401 – 2 (Roll No. 624).

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

6:44 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business is on motions to suspend the rules which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings were postponed.

H. Res. 1756:

providing for consideration of the Senate amendments to the bill ( H.R. 5281) to amend title 28, United States Code, to clarify and improve certain provisions relating to the removal of litigation against Federal officers or agencies to Federal courts, and for other purposes

6:43 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: 211 – 208 (Roll no. 623).

6:34 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 3082:

making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2010, and for other purposes

6:33 P.M. –

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

On motion that the House agree with an amendment to the Senate amendment Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 212 – 206 (Roll no. 622).

6:05 P.M. –

The previous question was ordered without objection.

H. Res. 1756:

providing for consideration of the Senate amendments to the bill ( H.R. 5281) to amend title 28, United States Code, to clarify and improve certain provisions relating to the removal of litigation against Federal officers or agencies to Federal courts, and for other purposes

6:03 P.M. –

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – The Chair put the question on adoption of the resolution and voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Ms. Foxx demanded the yeas and nays and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the resolution until a time to be announced.

The previous question was ordered without objection.

5:26 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 1756

5:24 P.M. –

Considered as privileged matter.

5:22 P.M. –

Mr. Polis (CO) filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 1756.

H.R. 3082:

making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2010, and for other purposes

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on agreeing to the Senate amendment with an amendment to H.R. 3082, the Chair announced that further proceedings would be postponed.

4:18 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on agreeing to the Senate amendment with an amendment to H.R. 3082.

4:17 P.M. –

Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 1755, the House moved to agree with an amendment to the Senate amendment.

H. Res. 1746:

recognizing and supporting the efforts of Welcome Back Veterans to augment the services provided by the Departments of Defense and Veterans’ Affairs in providing timely and world-class care for veterans and members of the Armed Forces suffering from PTSD and related psychiatric disorders

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

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended Agreed to by recorded vote (2/3 required): 409 – 0 (Roll no. 621).

4:09 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 4501:

to require certain return policies from businesses that purchase precious metals from consumers and solicit such transactions through an Internet website

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 324 – 81 (Roll no. 620).

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

4:02 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

4:01 P.M. –

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

H. Res. 1755:

providing for consideration of the Senate amendment to the bill ( H.R. 3082) making appropriations for military construction, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2010, and for other purposes

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

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 207 – 206 (Roll no. 619).

3:28 P.M. –

The previous question was ordered without objection.

2:58 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 1755

Considered as privileged matter.

2:57 P.M. –

Mr. McGovern filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 1755.

H. Res. 1704:

honoring the 2500th anniversary of the Battle of Marathon

2:56 P.M. –

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

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended Agreed to by recorded vote (2/3 required): 359 – 44, 5 Present (Roll no. 618).

2:49 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H. Res. 1402:

recognizing the 50th anniversary of the National Council for International Visitors, and expressing support for designation of February 16, 2011, as “Citizen Diplomacy Day”

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

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended Agreed to by recorded vote (2/3 required): 394 – 13, 1 Present (Roll no. 617).

2:41 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 6495:

to improve compliance with mine safety and health laws, empower miners to raise safety concerns, prevent future mine tragedies, and for other purposes

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Failed by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 214 – 193 (Roll no. 616).

2:33 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H. Res. 1752:

waiving a requirement of clause 6(a) of rule XIII with respect to consideration of certain resolutions reported from the Committee on Rules, and providing for consideration of motions to suspend the rules

2:32 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: 215 – 194 (Roll no. 615).

2:02 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on adoption of H.Res. 1752 and motions to suspend the rules, all of which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings has been postponed.

H.R. 6495:

to improve compliance with mine safety and health laws, empower miners to raise safety concerns, prevent future mine tragedies, and for other purposes

2:01 P.M. –

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

1:28 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 6495.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Miller, George moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

S. 3817:

to amend the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act, the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act, the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment and Adoption Reform Act of 1978, and the Abandoned Infants Assistance Act of 1988 to reauthorize the Acts, and for other purposes

1:27 P.M. –

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

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.

1:06 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 3817.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Sablan moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

H.R. 5012:

to amend the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch to establish a weekend and holiday feeding program to provide nutritious food to at-risk school children on weekends and during extended school holidays during the school year

1:05 P.M. –

The title of the measure was amended. Agreed to without objection.

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

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.

12:52 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5012.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Sablan moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

12:51 P.M. –

The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until a time to be announced.

H. Res. 1752:

waiving a requirement of clause 6(a) of rule XIII with respect to consideration of certain resolutions reported from the Committee on Rules, and providing for consideration of motions to suspend the rules

12:49 P.M. –

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – The Chair put the question on adoption of the resolution and voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Lincoln Diaz-Balart demanded the yeas and nays and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the resolution until a time to be announced.

The previous question was ordered without objection.

12:34 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 1752

12:33 P.M. –

Considered as privileged matter.

H. Res. 1531:

expressing support for designation of 2011 as “World Veterinary Year” to bring attention to and show appreciation for the veterinary profession on its 250th anniversary

12:31 P.M. –

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

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by recorded vote (2/3 required): 406 – 0 (Roll no. 614).

12:23 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H. Res. 1540:

supporting the goal of eradicating illicit marijuana cultivation on Federal lands and calling on the Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy to develop a coordinated strategy to permanently dismantle Mexican drug trafficking organizations operating on Federal lands

12:22 P.M. –

The title of the measure was amended. Agreed to without objection.

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

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 400 – 4 (Roll no. 613).

12:14 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H. Res. 1717:

congratulating imprisoned Chinese democracy advocate Liu Xiaobo on the award of the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize

12:13 P.M. –

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 402 – 1 (Roll no. 612).

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

12:07 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 5987:

to ensure that seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities who receive Social Security and certain other Federal benefits receive a one-time $250 payment in the event that no cost-of-living adjustment is payable in 2011

12:06 P.M. –

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Failed by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 254 – 153 (Roll no. 611).

11:32 A.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

11:31 A.M. –

UNFINISHED BUSINSESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was on motions to suspend the rules which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings has been postponed.

H.R. 4501:

to require certain return policies from businesses that purchase precious metals from consumers and solicit such transactions through an Internet website

11:30 A.M. –

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

11:23 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 4501.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Weiner moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

H.R. 5470:

to exclude an external power supply for certain security or life safety alarms and surveillance system components from the application of certain energy efficiency standards under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act

11:22 A.M. –

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

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.

11:16 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5470.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H. Res. 1746:

recognizing and supporting the efforts of Welcome Back Veterans to augment the services provided by the Departments of Defense and Veterans’ Affairs in providing timely and world-class care for veterans and members of the Armed Forces suffering from PTSD and related psychiatric disorders

11:15 A.M. –

At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Donnelly (IN) 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.

11:05 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1746.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Donnelly (IN) moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended.

S. 3789:

to limit access to social security account numbers

11:04 A.M. –

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

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.

10:53 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 3789.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H.R. 5987:

to ensure that seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities who receive Social Security and certain other Federal benefits receive a one-time $250 payment in the event that no cost-of-living adjustment is payable in 2011

10:51 A.M. –

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

10:29 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5987.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Pomeroy moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

10:27 A.M. –

The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until a time to be announced.

10:05 A.M. –

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

10:04 A.M. –

The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate passed S. 3199, S. 3984, H.R. 2480, and H.R. 6184.

10:02 A.M. –

ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches, which by direction of the Chair would be limited to 15 per side of the aisle.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Kagen 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.

10:01 A.M. –

Today’s prayer was offered by Lieutenant Christilene Whalen, Chaplain Corps, United States Navy, Patuxent River, Maryland

The Speaker designated the Honorable Ed Pastor to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

10:00 A.M. –

The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

Congress is in Session -today 12/7


The Senate Convenes: 10:00amET December 7, 2010

At 10:00am there will be a live quorum to begin the Court of Impeachment for the trial of G. Thomas Porteous. Senators are asked to be on the floor at 10:00am.

At 12:30pm, the Senate will proceed to legislative session for a period of morning business with Senator LeMieux recognized to speak for up to 15 minutes. Following his remarks, the Senate will recess until 12:45pm to allow for the weekly caucus meetings.

There will be two additional live quorums with respect to the Court of Impeachment, one at 2:30pm and another at 5:30pm.

Court of Impeachment:
At 10:00am on Tuesday, December 7, the Senate will resume consideration of the articles of impeachment against Judge G. Thomas Porteous, Jr. of the Eastern District of Louisiana for the commencement of arguments by the House Managers and counsel for Judge Porteous on motions filed by Judge Porteous with regard to the impeachment articles. The Secretary is instructed to notify the House of Representatives.

Each side will be permitted no more than one hour for arguments on all motions, counsel for Judge Porteous will be permitted to open and close the motions argument, and the parties are permitted to divide their arguments on the motions as they wish.

After recessing for the weekly party caucuses (12:45pm until 2:30pm), the Senate will reconvene on the articles of impeachment at 2:30pm for the parties’ final arguments on the merits of the articles. There will be a live quorum at 2:30pm to resume the Court of Impeachment. Each party will have 1 ½ hours to present argument on all four articles, which, under the impeachment rules, will be opened and closed by the House Managers, with no more than two individuals speaking for each side.

At the conclusion of the three hours allotted for final arguments, the Senate shall immediately meet in closed session to begin its deliberations on the articles of impeachment and the related motions in accord with impeachment Rule XX.

Senators are encouraged to be in the Senate Chamber tomorrow at 10:00am when a live quorum will begin, just prior to the commencement of the impeachment proceedings. This is an important constitutional part of each Senator’s responsibilities, and each Senator has an obligation to the participants in the case and to his or her office to be present and informed and participate.

Unanimous Consent:
Passed S.3199, the Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Act.

Passed S.3984, the Museum and Library Services Act of 2010.

Passed H.R.2480, Truth in Fur Labeling Act of 2010.

Passed H.R.6184, a bill to amend the Water Resources Development Act of 2000 to extend and modify the program allowing the Secretary of the Army to accept and expend funds contributed by non-Federal public entities to expedite the evaluation of permits, and for other purposes.

Adopted S.Res.696, a resolution making minority party committee appointments.

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

The next meeting in the House is scheduled for 12:30pmET December 7, 2010

. 7:08 P.M. –

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

7:07 P.M. –

Mr. Jones requested the following general leaves to address the House on December 14: Mr. Poe of TX for 5 min and himself for 5 min.

Mr. Jones requested the following general leaves to address the House on December 13: Mr. Poe of TX for 5 min and himself for 5 min.

Mr. Jones requested the following general leaves to address the House on December 9: Mr. Garrett of NJ for 5 min, Mr. Paul for 5 min, and Mr. Burton of IN for 5 min.

Mr. Jones requested the following general leaves to address the House on December 8: Ms. Ros-Lehtinen for 5 min, Mr. Garrett of NJ for 5 min, Mr. Diaz-Balart, Lincoln of FL for 5 min, Mr. Paul for 5 min, and Mr. Burton of IN for 5 min.

6:54 P.M. –

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

6:49 P.M. –

NOTIFICATION OF INTENT TO OFFER RESOLUTION – Ms. Waters notified the House of her intent to offer a privileged resolution. Ms. Waters was recognized to notice the form of her proposed resolution.

H. Res. 1264:

expressing support for the designation of March as National Essential Tremor Awareness Month

6:47 P.M. –

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 387 – 1 (Roll no. 610).

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

6:38 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H. Res. 1642:

recognizing the centennial of the City of Lilburn, Georgia and supporting the goals and ideals of a City of Lilburn Day

6:37 P.M. –

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

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 379 – 0 (Roll no. 609).

6:30 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 6400:

to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 111 North 6th Street in St. Louis, Missouri, as the “Earl Wilson, Jr. Post Office”

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

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 382 – 0 (Roll no. 608).

6:02 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

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

6:01 P.M. –

Mr. Perlmutter filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 1752.

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of December 7.

5:19 P.M. –

The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 6:00 P.M. today.

H.R. 6412:

to amend title 28, United States Code, to require the Attorney General to share criminal records with State sentencing commissions, and for other purposes

5:18 P.M. –

At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Scott (VA) 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.

5:12 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 6412.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Scott (VA) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

H.R. 3353:

to provide for American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas to be treated as States for certain criminal justice programs

5:11 P.M. –

At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Scott (VA) 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.

5:02 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3353.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Scott (VA) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

S. 3998:

to extend the Child Safety Pilot Program

5:01 P.M. –

At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Scott (VA) 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.

4:51 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 3998.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Scott (VA) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

H. Res. 1540:

supporting the goal of eradicating illicit marijuana cultivation on Federal lands and calling on the Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy to develop a coordinated strategy to permanently dismantle Mexican drug trafficking organizations operating on Federal lands

4:50 P.M. –

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

4:31 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1540.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Scott (VA) moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended.

S. 3987:

to amend the Fair Credit Reporting Act with respect to the applicability of identity theft guidelines to creditors

4:30 P.M. –

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

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.

4:24 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 3987.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Adler (NJ) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

H. Con. Res. 267:

congratulating the Baltic nations of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania on the 20th anniversary of the reestablishment of their full independence

4:23 P.M. –

The title of the measure was amended. Agreed to without objection.

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

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.

4:16 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Con. Res. 267.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Klein (FL) moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended.

H. Res. 1751:

mourning the loss of life and expressing condolences to the families affected by the tragic forest fire in Israel that began on December 2, 2010

4:15 P.M. –

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

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

4:08 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1751.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Klein (FL) moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H. Res. 1717:

congratulating imprisoned Chinese democracy advocate Liu Xiaobo on the award of the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize

4:07 P.M. –

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

3:27 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1717.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Klein (FL) moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended.

H. Res. 1402:

recognizing the 50th anniversary of the National Council for International Visitors, and expressing support for designation of February 16, 2011, as “Citizen Diplomacy Day”

At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Klein (FL) 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.

3:15 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1402.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Klein (FL) moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended.

H. Res. 1704:

honoring the 2500th anniversary of the Battle of Marathon

At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Klein (FL) 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.

3:06 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1704.

3:05 P.M. –

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Klein (FL) moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended.

H. Res. 1531:

expressing support for designation of 2011 as “World Veterinary Year” to bring attention to and show appreciation for the veterinary profession on its 250th anniversary

3:04 P.M. –

At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Clay 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.

2:53 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1531.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Clay moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H. Res. 1264:

expressing support for the designation of March as National Essential Tremor Awareness Month

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

2:47 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1264.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Clay moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H. Res. 1727:

recognizing Rotary International for 105 years of service to the world and commending members on their dedication to the mission and principles of their organization

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

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

2:38 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1727.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Clay moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H. Res. 1642:

recognizing the centennial of the City of Lilburn, Georgia and supporting the goals and ideals of a City of Lilburn Day

2:37 P.M. –

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

2:26 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1642.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Clay moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H.R. 6400:

to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 111 North 6th Street in St. Louis, Missouri, as the “Earl Wilson, Jr. Post Office”

2:25 P.M. –

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

2:18 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 6400.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H. Res. 1687:

recognizing and supporting the goals and ideals of National Runaway Prevention Month

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

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

2:12 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1687.

2:11 P.M. –

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Clay moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until a time to be announced.

2:05 P.M. –

The House received a message from the Clerk. Pursuant to the permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II 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 December 7, 2010, at 9:50 a.m., stating that that body had agreed to H.Con.Res. 259 and passed S. 4010.

2:04 P.M. –

The House received a message from the Clerk. Pursuant to the permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II 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 December 6, 2010, at 1:24 p.m., stating that that body had passed H.R. 6399, S. 3860 and S. 3817.

The House received a message from the Clerk. Pursuant to the permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II 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 December 3, 2010, at 4:15 p.m., stating that that body had passed H.R. 3237, H.R. 5281 with amendments, S. 1774 and S. 124.

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

2:03 P.M. –

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

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, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of December 7.

12:50 P.M. –

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

12:31 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.

12:30 P.M. –

The Speaker designated the Honorable Sam Farr to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

The House convened, starting a new legislative day

another lame duck -Congress is in Session 12/6


The Senate Convenes: 2:00pET December 6, 2010

Following any Leader remarks, there will be a period of morning business with senators permitted to speak for up to 10 minutes each. There will be no roll call votes during Monday’s session of the Senate.

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The next meeting in scheduled for 12:30pmET on December 7, 2010



It’s time to pass the DREAM Act


Organizing for America

A House vote on the DREAM Act may be coming soon — but the vote will be close.

And in the coming days, lawmakers will be looking to their constituents to decide where they stand.

It’s a vitally important measure. Providing a pathway to citizenship for undocumented youth who serve in the military or work toward a college degree is rooted in the American principles of hard work and fairness.

OFA supporters have made calls to key senators in preparation for the Senate vote. Now, your representative needs to hear that you support the DREAM Act — and why. Theirs could be the deciding vote.

Will you write a letter to your representative today?

If they’ve already been fighting for the DREAM Act, it’s important they know you have their back — and if they aren’t yet supporting it, let them know where you stand. It’ll only take a minute, and it could make all the difference.

We’ve worked hard for this moment. For years, immigration reform advocates have fought to give undocumented youth a chance to earn their citizenship through hard work and sacrifice — and this current push for the DREAM Act represents the culmination of those efforts.

And with the support of the President and 70 percent of Americans, the time to finish the job is now.

With this vote, we have a chance to make sure that these youth have a shot at the American dream.

Please write your representative now:

http://my.barackobama.com/DreamLetters

Thanks,

Mitch

Mitch Stewart
Director
Organizing for America