Tag Archives: Speakers

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Congress: the Republican led House – the Senate


The Senate will convene on Monday, October 24, 2011 at 3:45pm and on Thursday, October 27, 2011 at 11am for pro forma sessions only with no business conducted.

Following the pro forma session on Thursday, October 27th, the Senate will adjourn until 3:00pm on Monday, October 31, 2011.  Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in morning business until 4:30pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

Following morning business, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to consider Calendar #249, Stephen A. Higginson, of LA, to be United States Circuit Judge for the 5th Circuit with one hour equally divided and controlled between Senators Leahy and Grassley or their designees.

The next roll call vote will be at approximately 5:30pm on confirmation of the Higginson nomination.

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF OCTOBER 26, 2011

 112TH CONGRESS – FIRST Session

-SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.5:20:17 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.5:19:50 P.M. -Mr. Goodlatte asked unanimous consent that when the House adjourns on Wednesday, October 26, 2011, it adjourn to meet at 9 a.m. on Thursday, October 27, 2011. Agreed to without objection.5:19:22 P.M. -H.R. 2527Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.5:19:21 P.M. -H.R. 2527On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 416 – 3 (Roll no. 812).5:12:43 P.M. -H.R. 2527Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 2527 — “To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in recognition and celebration of the National Baseball Hall of Fame.”5:12:43 P.M. -H. Res. 448Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.5:12:42 P.M. -H. Res. 448On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by recorded vote: 253 – 172 (Roll no. 811).5:05:21 P.M. -H. Res. 448On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 243 – 178 (Roll no. 810).4:58:33 P.M. -H. Res. 448Considered as unfinished business. H. Res. 448 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 2576) to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs, and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 674) to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the imposition of 3 percent withholding on certain payments made to vendors by government entities.”4:58:31 P.M. -H.R. 1904Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.4:58:30 P.M. -H.R. 1904On passage Passed by recorded vote: 235 – 186 (Roll no. 809).4:51:49 P.M. -H.R. 1904On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by recorded vote: 187 – 237 (Roll no. 808).4:34:10 P.M. -H.R. 1904The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.4:26:17 P.M. -H.R. 1904DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Deutch motion to recommit with instructions. The instructions in the motion seek to report the same to the House with an amendment to add language to prevent land exchanges with companies doing business with Iran.4:24:46 P.M. -H.R. 1904Mr. Deutch moved to recommit with instructions to Natural Resources.4:24:12 P.M. -H.R. 1904MOMENT OF SILENCE – The Chair asked that the House now observe a moment of silence in rememberance of our brave men and women in uniform who have given their lives in the service of our nation in Iraq and Afghanistan and their families, and of all who serve in our armed forces and their families.4:23:03 P.M. -H.R. 1904The House adopted the amendment in the nature of a substitute as agreed to by the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union.4:22:45 P.M. -H.R. 1904The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.4:22:07 P.M. -H.R. 1904The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 1904.4:21:34 P.M. -H.R. 1904On agreeing to the Grijalva amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 182 – 240 (Roll no. 807).4:16:04 P.M. -H.R. 1904On agreeing to the Markey amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 173 – 238 (Roll no. 806).4:12:21 P.M. -H.R. 1904On agreeing to the Lujan amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 189 – 233 (Roll no. 805).3:46:11 P.M. -H.R. 1904The House resolved into Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for further consideration.3:45:28 P.M. -H.R. 1904Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 1904 — “To facilitate the efficient extraction of mineral resources in southeast Arizona by authorizing and directing an exchange of Federal and non-Federal land, and for other purposes.”3:45:00 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of October 26.3:05:52 P.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for approximately 3:30 p.m. today.3:04:29 P.M. -H.R. 1904Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union rises leaving H.R. 1904 as unfinished business.3:04:18 P.M. -H.R. 1904On motion that the committee rise Agreed to by voice vote.3:03:59 P.M. -H.R. 1904Mr. Hastings (WA) moved that the committee rise.3:03:41 P.M. -H.R. 1904POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Grijalva amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Grijalva demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.2:52:09 P.M. -H.R. 1904DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 444, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Grijalva amendment.2:51:42 P.M. -H.R. 1904An amendment, offered by Mr. Grijalva,  numbered 3 printed in Part B of House Report 112-258 to require that the remote operations center for the proposed mine be located in the local community, that the company actively recruit and hire local employees, that all ore produced from the mine be processed in the United States and that all equipment used at the mine be made in the United States.2:51:22 P.M. -H.R. 1904POSTPONED 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.2:40:15 P.M. -H.R. 1904DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 444, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Markey amendment.2:39:54 P.M. -H.R. 1904An amendment, offered by Mr. Markey,  numbered 2 printed in Part B of House Report 112-258 to require, as a condition of the land exchange authorized by the bill, that Resolution Copper pay an 8% royalty to the United States on all locatable minerals produced in commercial quantities from the Federal land the company receives in the exchange.2:39:40 P.M. -H.R. 1904POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Lujan amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Lujan demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.2:29:20 P.M. -H.R. 1904DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 444, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Lujan amendment.2:28:40 P.M. -H.R. 1904An amendment, offered by Mr. Lujan,  numbered 1 printed in Part B of House Report 112-258 to exempt all Native American sacred and cultural sites from the land conveyance.1:22:05 P.M. -H.R. 1904GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 1904.1:21:55 P.M. -H.R. 1904The Speaker designated the Honorable Tim Murphy to act as Chairman of the Committee.1:21:54 P.M. -H.R. 1904House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 444 and Rule XVIII.1:21:28 P.M. -H.R. 1904Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 1904 with 1 hour of general debate. Previous question shall be considered as ordered without intervening motions except motion to recommit with or without instructions. Measure will be considered read. Specified amendments are in order. The resolution waives all points of order against the committee amendment in the nature of a substitute, as amended. The resolution waives all points of order against the amendments printed in Part B of the report.1:21:23 P.M. -H.R. 1904Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 444. H.R. 1904 — “To facilitate the efficient extraction of mineral resources in southeast Arizona by authorizing and directing an exchange of Federal and non-Federal land, and for other purposes.”1:17:51 P.M. -H. Res. 448POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on H. Res. 448, the Chair put the question on ordering the previous question, and by voice vote announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Hastings (FL) demanded the yeas and nays and the Chair postponed further proceedings on ordering the previous question until a time to be announced.12:30:07 P.M. -H. Res. 448DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 448.12:28:46 P.M. -H. Res. 448Considered as privileged matter. H. Res. 448 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 2576) to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the calculation of modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining eligibility for certain healthcare-related programs, and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 674) to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the imposition of 3 percent withholding on certain payments made to vendors by government entities.”12:04:14 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches which by direction of the Chair, would be limited to 15 per side of the aisle.12:02:43 P.M. -PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Ms. Hochul to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.12:02:37 P.M. -The Speaker announced approval of the Journal.  Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.12:01:08 P.M. -Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Scott Eynon, Community Christian Church, Tamarac, Florida.12:00:48 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of October 26.11:22:17 A.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 P.M. today.10:01:11 A.M. -MORNING-HOUR DEBATE – The House proceeded with Morning-Hour Debate. At the conclusion of Morning-Hour, the House will recess until 12:00 p.m. for the start of legislative business.10:00:57 A.M. -The Speaker designated the Honorable Chip Cravaack to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.10:00:33 A.M. -The House convened, starting a new legislative day.T SESSION

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Congress: the Republican led House the Senate in pro forma Session


The Senate will convene on Monday, October 24, 2011 at 3:45pm and on Thursday, October 27, 2011 at 11am for pro forma sessions only with no business conducted.

Following the pro forma session on Thursday, October 27th, the Senate will adjourn until 3:00pm on Monday, October 31, 2011.  Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in morning business until 4:30pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

Following morning business, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to consider Calendar #249, Stephen A. Higginson, of LA, to be United States Circuit Judge for the 5th Circuit with one hour equally divided and controlled between Senators Leahy and Grassley or their designees.

The next roll call vote will be at approximately 5:30pm on confirmation of the Higginson nomination.

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF OCTOBER 25, 2011

112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

. -SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.3:40:53 P.M.

-ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.3:39:07 P.M.

-H.R. 2447Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.3:39:06 P.M.

-H.R. 2447On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 422 – 0 (Roll no. 804).3:31:38 P.M.

-H.R. 2447Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 2447 — “To grant the congressional gold medal to the Montford Point Marines.”3:30:00 P.M.

-UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on adoption of a motion to suspend the rules which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.3:28:18 P.M.

-H. Res. 444Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.3:28:15 P.M.

-H. Res. 444On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 245 – 178 (Roll no. 803).3:00:59 P.M.

-H. Res. 444The previous question was ordered without objection.2:10:56 P.M.

-H. Res. 444DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 444.2:10:39 P.M.

-H. Res. 444Considered as privileged matter. H. Res. 444 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 1904) to facilitate the efficient extraction of mineral resources in southeast Arizona by authorizing and directing an exchange of Federal and non-Federal land, and for other purposes.”2:01:14 P.M.

-H.R. 2042Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.2:01:09 P.M.

-H.R. 2042On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.1:48:00 P.M.

-H.R. 2042DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2042.1:47:58 P.M.

-H.R. 2042Considered under suspension of the rules.1:47:30 P.M. -H.R. 2042Mr. Turner (NY) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 2042 — “To require the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, to establish a program to issue Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business Travel Cards, and for other purposes.”1:46:13 P.M. -H.R. 2527At 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.1:23:39 P.M. -H.R. 2527DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2527.1:23:38 P.M. -H.R. 2527Considered under suspension of the rules.1:23:26 P.M. -H.R. 2527Mr. Pearce moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 2527 — “To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in recognition and celebration of the National Baseball Hall of Fame.”1:22:42 P.M. -H.R. 2447At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.12:42:54 P.M. -H.R. 2447DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2447.12:42:52 P.M. -H.R. 2447Considered under suspension of the rules.12:42:41 P.M. -H.R. 2447Mr. Jones moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 2447 — “To grant the congressional gold medal to the Montford Point Marines.”12:42:32 P.M. -The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until a time to be announced.12:40:59 P.M. -The Speaker laid before the House a message from the President transmitting a notice continuing the emergency with respect to the situation in or in relation to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the related measures blocking the property of certain persons contributing to theconflict in that country are to continue in effect beyond October 27, 2011 – referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs and ordered to be printed (H. Doc. 112-67).12:03:04 P.M. -The House received a communication from the Honorable Charles J. “Chuck” Fleischmann Mr. Fleischmann submitted his resignation from the Committee on Natural Resources. The resignation was accepted without objection.12:03:04 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.12:02:21 P.M. -PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Olson to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.12:02:17 P.M. -The Speaker announced approval of the Journal.  Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.12:01:14 P.M. -Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Morris Matthis, Christ United Methodist Church, Sugarland, Texas12:00:57 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of October 25.11:12:00 A.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 P.M. today.10:01:51 A.M. -MORNING-HOUR DEBATE – The House proceeded with Morning-Hour Debate. At the conclusion of Morning-Hour, the House will recess until 12:00 p.m. for the start of legislative business.10:01:42 A.M. -The Speaker designated the Honorable Michael G. Fitzpatrick to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.10:00:21 A.M. -The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

Black History

Congress: -the Republican led House – – the Senate -in pro forma Sessions back on 10/31


The Senate will convene on Monday, October 24, 2011 at 3:45pm and on Thursday, October 27, 2011 at 11am for pro forma sessions only with no business conducted.

Following the pro forma session on Thursday, October 27th, the Senate will adjourn until 3:00pm on Monday, October 31, 2011.  Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in morning business until 4:30pm with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

Following morning business, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to consider Calendar #249, Stephen A. Higginson, of LA, to be United States Circuit Judge for the 5th Circuit with one hour equally divided and controlled between Senators Leahy and Grassley or their designees.

The next roll call vote will be at approximately 5:30pm on confirmation of the Higginson nomination.

The next roll call vote is expected to occur on Monday, October 31st in relation to a nomination.  The details of the amended consent agreement with respect to H.R.2112 is below.

Cloture having been invoked on the Inouye substitute amendment #738, the substitute amendment is agreed to and it is now considered original text for the purposes of further amendment.  The remaining amendments which were scheduled for votes today remain in order notwithstanding cloture having been invoked; when the Senate resumes consideration of H.R.2112 on Tuesday, November 1st, the Senate will proceed to votes on the remaining amendments; and all other provisions of the previous order remain in effect.

The following amendments were agreed to by voice vote, en bloc:

– Portman #859;

– McCain #892;

– Cantwell #893, as modified, with the changes that are at the desk;

– Cochran #805, as modified, with the changes that are at the desk;

– Burr #890;

– Inouye #918; and

– Kyl #912, as modified.

The following amendments remain in order under the previous order and are expected to be voted on on Tuesday, November 1st:

– Coburn #800;

– Paul #821 (60-vote threshold);

– DeMint #763;

– Crapo #814 (60-vote threshold);

– Lee Motion to Recommit.

Following the disposition of the amendments above, the Senate will proceed to votes in relation to any remaining germane pending amendments in the order they were offered; further, upon disposition of any pending germane amendments, the bill, as amended, will be read a third time, and the Senate will proceed to vote on passage of the bill with no intervening action or debate; when the Senate receives a message from the House with respect to H.R.2112, the Senate will insist on its amendment, request, or agree to, a conference with the House on the disagreeing votes of the two Houses; and the Chair will be authorized to appoint the following conferees – Kohl, Harkin, Feinstein, Johnson (SD), Nelson (NE), Pryor, Brown (OH), Inouye, Murray, Mikulski, Blunt, Cochran, McConnell, Collins, Moran, Hoeven, Hutchison and Shelby.

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF OCTOBER 24, 2011

112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

  -The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on October 25, 2011.7:30:42 P.M. -On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.7:30:28 P.M. -Mrs. Christensen moved that the House do now adjourn.7:15:26 P.M. -SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.7:01:55 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.7:00:19 P.M. -H.R. 1160Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.7:00:18 P.M. -H.R. 1160On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 395 – 0 (Roll no. 802).6:54:14 P.M. -H.R. 1160Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 1160 — “To require the Secretary of the Interior to convey the McKinney Lake National Fish Hatchery to the State of North Carolina, and for other purposes.”6:54:06 P.M. -H.R. 320Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.6:54:05 P.M. -H.R. 320On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 392 – 1 (Roll no. 801).6:31:37 P.M. -H.R. 320Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 320 — “To designate a Distinguished Flying Cross National Memorial at the March Field Air Museum in Riverside, California.”6:31:30 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.6:31:03 P.M. -Mr. Bishop (UT) filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 444.6:30:57 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of October 24.5:30:26 P.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for  6:30 P.M. today.5:30:17 P.M. -H.R. 2594Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.5:30:15 P.M. -H.R. 2594On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.4:52:25 P.M. -H.R. 2594DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2594.4:52:24 P.M. -H.R. 2594Considered under suspension of the rules.4:52:07 P.M. -H.R. 2594Mr. Petri moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 2594 — “To prohibit operators of civil aircraft of the United States from participating in the European Union’s emissions trading scheme, and for other purposes.”4:51:26 P.M. -H.R. 320At 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.4:45:43 P.M. -H.R. 320DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 320.4:45:42 P.M. -H.R. 320Considered under suspension of the rules.4:45:08 P.M. -H.R. 320Mr. Young (AK) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 320 — “To designate a Distinguished Flying Cross National Memorial at the March Field Air Museum in Riverside, California.”4:44:52 P.M. -H.R. 818Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.4:44:50 P.M. -H.R. 818On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.4:39:17 P.M. -H.R. 818DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 818.4:39:15 P.M. -H.R. 818Considered under suspension of the rules.4:39:02 P.M. -H.R. 818Mr. Young (AK) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill. H.R. 818 — “To direct the Secretary of the Interior to allow for prepayment of repayment contracts between the United States and the Uintah Water Conservancy District.”4:38:48 P.M. -H.R. 461Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.4:38:45 P.M. -H.R. 461On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.4:32:12 P.M. -H.R. 461DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 461.4:32:09 P.M. -H.R. 461Considered under suspension of the rules.4:32:00 P.M. -H.R. 461Mr. Young (AK) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 461 — “To direct the Secretary of the Interior to convey certain Federal features of the electric distribution system to the South Utah Valley Electric Service District, and for other purposes.”4:31:40 P.M. -H.R. 1160At 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.4:25:55 P.M. -H.R. 1160DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 1160.4:25:54 P.M. -H.R. 1160Considered under suspension of the rules.4:25:37 P.M. -H.R. 1160Mr. Young (AK) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 1160 — “To require the Secretary of the Interior to convey the McKinney Lake National Fish Hatchery to the State of North Carolina, and for other purposes.”4:25:34 P.M. -H.R. 295Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.4:25:29 P.M. -H.R. 295On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.4:21:38 P.M. -H.R. 295DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 295.4:21:36 P.M. -H.R. 295Considered under suspension of the rules.4:21:20 P.M. -H.R. 295Mr. Young (AK) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 295 — “To amend the Hydrographic Services Improvement Act of 1998 to authorize funds to acquire hydrographic data and provide hydrographic services specific to the Arctic for safe navigation, delineating the United States extended continental shelf, and the monitoring and description of coastal changes.”4:21:18 P.M. -H.R. 441The title of the measure was amended. Agreed to without objection.4:21:17 P.M. -H.R. 441Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.4:21:13 P.M. -H.R. 441On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.4:16:52 P.M. -H.R. 441DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 441.4:16:50 P.M. -H.R. 441Considered under suspension of the rules.4:16:15 P.M. -H.R. 441Mr. Young (AK) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 441 — “To authorize the Secretary of the Interior to issue permits for a microhydro project in nonwilderness areas within the boundaries of Denali National Park and Preserve, to acquire land for Denali National Park and Preserve from Doyon Tourism, Inc., and for other purposes.”4:15:56 P.M. -The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until a time to be announced.4:15:47 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of October 24.2:08:58 P.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.2:08:23 P.M. -The House received a communication from John Abney Culberson, Member of Congress. Pursuant to Rule VIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives, Mr. Culberson notified the House that he had been served with a deposition subpoena for documents and testimony by the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas to appear as a witness in a pending civil lawsuit and that after consultation with the Office of General Counsel, he had determined that compliance with the subpoena was inconsistent with the precedents and privileges of the House.2:07:50 P.M. -The House received a communication from Brittany Seabury, District Director for U.S. Representative John Abney Culberson. Pursuant to Rule VIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives, Ms. Seabury notified the House that she had been served with a deposition subpoena for documents and testimony by the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas to appear as a witness in a pending civil lawsuit and that after consultation with the Office of General Counsel, she had determined that compliance with the subpoena was inconsistent with the precedents and privileges of the House.2:02:40 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches.2:02:21 P.M. -PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. McKinley to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.2:02:11 P.M. -The Speaker announced approval of the Journal.  Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.2:00:55 P.M. -Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Avelino Gonzalez, Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church, Washington, DC.2:00:37 P.M. -The Speaker designated the Honorable Adrian Smith to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.2:00:26 P.M. -The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

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Congress: the Republican led House – the Senate


the Senate Convened at 9:30amET October 19, 2011

  • Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in morning business for one
    hour with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each with the
    Republicans controlling the first half and the Majority controlling the final
    half.
  • Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of
    H.R.2112, the Agriculture, CJS, and Transportation/HUD Appropriations bill.  The
    time until 12:00pm will be equally divided and controlled between the Leaders or
    their designees.  At approximately 12:00pm, the Senate will conduct a roll call
    vote in relation to the McCain amendment #739 (critical surface transportation).
  • Additional roll call votes are expected during WednesdayThe following amendments are pending to H.R.2112, the Agriculture, CJS, and
    Transportation/HUD Appropriations bill:

    • Inouye substitute amendment #738 (text of the 3 appropriations bills)
    • Webb amendment #750, as modified (National Criminal Justice Commission)
    • Kohl amendment #755 (spending plan)
    • Murray amendment #772 (reconstruction of highway facilities damaged by
      natural disasters or emergencies)
    • McCain amendment #741 (ethanol blender pumps and storage facilities)
    • Sanders amendment #816 (energy efficiency programs for small businesses)
    • Landrieu amendment #781 (farmer program loans)
    • Vitter amendment #769 (drug reimportation)
    • Coburn amendment #791 (prohibit funds for direct payments to individuals
      with income over $1M)
    • Coburn #792 (end payments to slumlords)

     

The previous order has been amended to consider 3 District Judges at noon.
There are now 2 roll call votes expected at approximately 12:10pm in
relation to the Mariani nomination and the McCain amendment #739.  The
details of the agreement are below.

At noon, the Senate will proceed to Executive Session to consider the
following nominations with 10 minutes of debate equally divided and controlled
between Senators Leahy and Grassley or their designees:

  • Calendar #272, Mark Raymond Hornak to be US District Judge for the Western
    District of Pennsylvania
  • Calendar #273, Robert David Mariani, to be US District Judge for the Middle
    District of Pennsylvania
  • Calendar #274, Robert N. Scola, Jr., to be US District Judge for the
    Southern District of Florida

The Hornak and Scola nominations will be confirmed by unanimous consent; the
Mariani nomination will require a roll call vote.  The Senate will then resume
Legislative Session and consideration H.R.2112 with two minutes of debate
equally divided and controlled between Senators McCain and Boxer or their
designees prior to the vote in relation to the McCain amendment #739.

Senator Harkin asked unanimous consent the HELP Committee be authorized to meet
in Executive Session today for the consideration of a bill to reauthorize the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act.  Senator Paul then objected to Senator
Harkin’s request.

The Senate has reached an agreement that the next first degree amendments in order to be called up and made pending to H.R.2112 and the substitute amendment #738 be the following:

– Ayotte #753 (prohibit funds for coastal and marine spatial planning);

– Crapo #814 (implementation of provisions of title VII of Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform);

– Moran #815 (Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Act);

– Coburn #793 (Transparency in federally attended and funded conferences);

– Coburn #798, as modified, with the changes that are at the desk (prohibit funds for purchase of new passenger motor vehicles);

– DeMint #763 (prohibit funds to implement regulations regarding removal of essential-use designation for epinephrine);

– DeMint #764 (Eliminate increase in funding);

– Grassley #860 (accountability in federal grant programs administered by DOJ);

– Sessions #810 (prohibit funds to allow categorical eligibility for supplemental nutrition assistance program);

– Lautenberg #836 (additional funding for Economic Development Assistance Programs);

– Brown #874 (increase funds to carry out section 561 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1987, with offset);

– Merkley #879 (limit appropriations for freight and rail transportation unless products used are manufactured in US);

– Bingaman #771 (funds to investigate trade violations);

– Gillibrand #869 (increase funding for emergency conservation/emergency watershed protection programs);

– Feinstein #855 (Farm Service Agency must enforce certain average adjusted gross income limitations); and

– Menendez #857 (extend loan limits for FHA, VA and others).

Further, that a motion to recommit from Senator Lee be in order; that, if offered, the motion be set aside and the Senate return to the consideration of the pending amendments.

The Ayotte amendment #753 (prohibit funds for prosecutions of enemy combatants in Article III Courts), the Crapo amendment #814 (implementation of title VII of Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform) and the Merkley amendment #879 (limit appropriations for freight and rail transportation unless products used are manufactured in US) are now pending to H.R.2112, the Agriculture, CJS and Transportation/HUD Appropriations bill.

Additionally, Senator Vitter modified his amendment #769 (drug importation) with the changes at the desk.

The Moran amendment #815 (Watershed Protection and Flood Protection Act) and the Bingaman amendment #771, as modified with the changes at the desk (funds to investigate trade violations) are now pending to H.R.2112, the Agriculture, CJS, and Transportation/HUD Appropriations bill.

The following amendments are pending to H.R.2112, the Agriculture, CJS, and Transportation/HUD Appropriations bill:

  • Inouye substitute amendment #738 (text of the 3 appropriations bills)
  • Webb amendment #750, as modified (National Criminal Justice Commission)
  • Kohl amendment #755 (spending plan)
  • Murray amendment #772 (reconstruction of highway facilities damaged by natural disasters or emergencies)
  • Sanders amendment #816 (energy efficiency programs for small businesses)
  • Landrieu amendment #781 (farmer program loans)
  • Vitter amendment #769, as modified (drug reimportation)
  • Coburn amendment #791 (prohibit funds for direct payments to individuals with income over $1M)
  • Coburn amendment #792, as modified (end payments to slumlords)
  • Ayotte amendment #753 (prohibit funds for prosecutions of enemy combatants in Article III Courts)
  • Crapo amendment #814 (derivatives – Dodd-Frank)
  • Merkley amendment #879 (freight and rail products made in the US)
  • Moran amendment #815 (spending levels for Watershed Protection)
  • Bingaman amendment #771, as modified (funds to investigate trade violations)
  • Grassley amendment #860 (DOJ Federal Grants)
  • Menendez amendment #857 (extend loan limits for FHA, VA and others)
  • Lee motion to recommit H.R.2112 (FY11 levels)
  • Sessions amendment #810 (prohibit funds to allow categorical eligibility for supplemental nutrition assistance program)
  • DeMint amendment #763 (epinephrine)
  • DeMint amendment #764 (eliminate increase in funding)
  • Lautenberg amendment #836 (Economic Development Assistance Program)

The following amendments have been considered and voted on

  • Cornyn amendment #775, as modified (Operation Fast and Furious); Agreed to: 99-0
  • McCain amendment #740 (eliminate TAA funding for firms); Not Agreed to: 44-55
  • Collins amendment #804 (vegetables in school meal programs); Agreed to by Voice Vote
  • McCain amendment #739 (critical surface transportation); Tabled: 59-39
  • McCain amendment #741 (ethanol blender pumps and storage facilities); withdrawn

VOTES

12:10pm The Senate began a roll call vote on confirmation of Robert David
Mariani to be United States District Judge for the Middle District of
Pennsylvania; Confirmed: 82-17

The following amendments and motion are now pending to H.R.2112, the Agriculture, CJS, and Transportation/HUD Appropriations bill:

  • Grassley amendment #860 (DOJ Federal Grants)
  • Menendez amendment #857 (extend loans limits for FHA, VA and others)
  • Lee motion to recommit the bill (FY2011 levels)
  • Sessions amendment #810 (prohibit funds to allow categorical eligibility for supplemental nutrition assistance program)

Additionally, Senator Coburn modified his amendment #792 with the changes at the desk.

During Wednesday’s session of the Senate, Senator Reid filed cloture on the motion to proceed to Calendar #204, S.1723, the Teachers and First Responders Back to Work Act.

Senator McConnell then filed cloture on the motion to proceed to Calendar #205, S.1726, the Withholding Tax Relief Act.

Additionally, Senator Reid announced there will be no further roll call votes during today’s session of the Senate.

LEGISLATIVE ITEMS

Passed Calendar #125, S.894, the Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2011

Adopted S.Res.299, designating October 2011 as “National Work and Family Month”.

Adopted S.Res.300, supporting the goals and ideals of Red Ribbon Week.

No EXECUTIVE ITEMS

———————————————————————————————-

The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on October 21, 2011.

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Congress: the Republican led House – the Senate


the Senate Convened at 10:00amET October 18, 2011

  • Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in morning business for one
    hour with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each with the
    Majority controlling the first half and the Republicans controlling the final
    half.
  • Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of
    H.R.2112, the Agriculture, CJS and Transportation Appropriations bill.
  • The Senate will recess from 12:30pm until 2:15pm to allow for the weekly
    caucus meetings.
  • We will work on an agreement with respect to the amendments pending to
    H.R.2112 and notify Senators when votes are scheduled.

The following amendments are pending to H.R.2112, the Agriculture, CJS, and
Transportation/HUD Appropriations bill:

  • Inouye substitute amendment #738 (text of the 3 appropriations bills)
  • Webb amendment #750, as modified (National Criminal Justice Commission)
  • Kohl amendment #755 (spending plan)
  • Cornyn amendment #775 (Operation Fast and Furious)
  • Murray amendment #772 (reconstruction of highway facilities damaged by
    natural disasters or emergencies)
  • McCain amendment #739 (critical surface transportation)
  • McCain amendment #740 (eliminate TAA funding for firms)
  • McCain amendment #741 (ethanol blender pumps and storage facilities)

11:45am The Senate has resumed consideration of HR 2112, Agriculture/CJS/THUD
appropriations bill.

Senator McCain has offered the following amendments:

  • McCain #739 (Critical surface transportation)
  • McCain #740 (Eliminate funding for TAA for firms program)
  • McCain #741 (Ethanol blender pumps/storage facilities)

LEGISLATIVE
ITEMS

Passed S.270, La Pine Land Conveyance

Passed S.292, Salmon Lake Conveyance

Passed S.333, Little Wood River Ranch hydro license

Passed S.334, American Falls Reservoir hydro license

Passed S.404, a bill to modify a land grant patent issued by the Secretary of
the Interior

Passed H.R.489, C.C. Cragin Dam and Reservoir

Passed H.R.470, Hoover Dam

Passed H.R.765, Ski Area Recreational Opportunity Enhancement

Discharged Energy and Passed S.925, Mt. Andrea Lawrence Designation Act of
2011

Adopted S.Con.Res.32, correcting the enrollment of H.R.470, Hoover Dam

Adopted S.Res.298, expressing support for the designation of October 20,
2011, as the “National Day on Writing”.

EXECUTIVE
ITEMS

Confirmed #429 Dan W. Mozena – to be Ambassador Extraordinary and
Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the People’s Republic of
Bangladesh

Confirmed #430 Robert A. Mandell — to be Ambassador Extraordinary and
Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Luxembourg

Confirmed #431 Thomas Charles Krajeski — to be Ambassador Extraordinary and
Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Kingdom of Bahrain

Confirmed #432 Susan Denise Page — to be Ambassador Extraordinary and
Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of South
Sudan

Confirmed #433 Adrienne S. O’Neal — to be Ambassador Extraordinary and
Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Cape
Verde

Confirmed #434 Mary Beth Leonard — to be Ambassador Extraordinary and
Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Mali

Confirmed #435 Mark Francis Brzezinski — to be Ambassador Extraordinary and
Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Sweden

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

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF OCTOBER 18, 2011

112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

. -The Speaker announced that the House do now adjourn pursuant to a previous special order.

The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on October 21, 2011.

11:03:05 A.M. -The House received a message from the Clerk. Pursuant to the permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II of the Rules of the U.S. House of Representatives, the Clerk notified the House that she had received the following message from the Secretary of the Senate on October 17, 2011 at 12:26 p.m.: That the Senate agreed to S. Con. Res. 31.11:02:35 A.M. -PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair led the House in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.11:02:30 A.M. -The Speaker announced approval of the Journal.  Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.11:01:05 A.M. -Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Andrea Martin, St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church, Washington, DC.11:00:54 A.M. -The Speaker designated the Honorable Andy Harris to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.11:00:40 A.M. -The House convened, starting a new legislative day.