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what is going on in Congress … the Republican led House -the Senate


The Senate Convened at 9:30amET March 31, 2011

Following any leader remarks, the Senate will proceed to a period of morning business with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each with the first hour equally divided and controlled between the two leaders or their designees with the Majority controlling the first 30 minutes and the Republicans controlling the next 30 minutes.

Senators will be notified when votes are scheduled.

 Unanimous Consent:

Adopted the following resolutions:

S.Res.120, 1 year anniversary 4/2/10 fire and explosion – Tesoro refinery in Anacorte, WA;

S.Res.121, designating April 2011 as “Financial Literacy Month”;

S.Res.122, honoring the life and legacy of Elizabeth Taylor; and

S.Res.123, commending ACHIEVA on its 60th anniversary.

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CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF MARCH 31, 2011

112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

8:56 P.M. –

The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on April 1, 2012.

On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.

Mr. Mica moved that the House do now adjourn.

8:55 P.M. –

APPOINTMENT OF OFFICIAL OBJECTORS – On behalf of the Majority and Minority Leaderships, the Chair announced that the official objectors for the Private Calendar for the 112th Congress were as follows: For the Majority: Messrs. Smith (TX), Sensenbrenner (WI), and Poe (TX). For the Minority: Messrs. Serrano (NY), Nadler (NY), and Edwards (MD).

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

8:53 P.M. –

Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union rises leaving H.R. 658 as unfinished business.

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

Mr. Mica moved that the Committee rise.

8:52 P.M. –

By unanimous consent, the Moore amendment was withdrawn.

8:45 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Moore (WI) amendment no. 32.

Amendment offered by Ms. Moore.

An amendment numbered 32 printed in House Report 112-46 to give the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) the authority to conduct demonstration projects at five airports in support of “aerotropolis” zones that assist in better coordinating transportation around airports and funding of projects to reduce congestion, improve, and increase the flow of freight and passengers to and through the airport through multiple transportation modes.

8:44 P.M. –

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

8:41 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Schiff amendment no. 31.

Amendment offered by Mr. Schiff.

An amendment numbered 31 printed in House Report 112-46 to include sense of Congress language that the operator of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) should consult with representatives of the community surrounding LAX regarding airport operations and expansion plans.

8:40 P.M. –

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

8:35 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Matheson amendment no. 30.

Amendment offered by Mr. Matheson.

An amendment numbered 30 printed in House Report 112-46 to allow the Transportation Department to release any terms, conditions, reservations, or restrictions on deeds which the United States conveyed to an airport, city, county property for airport purposes, as long as the release results in furthering other airport purposes.

8:34 P.M. –

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

8:24 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Schiff amendment no. 29.

Amendment offered by Mr. Schiff.

An amendment numbered 29 printed in House Report 112-46 to allow Bob Hope and Van Nuys Airports in southern California to adopt curfews from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., alleviating air traffic noise for residents of the San Fernando Valley. It simplifies the process for these airports to implement a curfew by allowing airports that already had at least a partial curfew in effect before the 1990 Airport Noise and Capacity Act (PL 101-58) to implement mandatory nighttime curfews.

8:23 P.M. –

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

8:15 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Pearce amendment no. 27.

Amendment offered by Mr. Pearce.

An amendment numbered 27 printed in House Report 112-46 to authorize an equitable transfer of land and property, in the form of a road, between Dona Ana County in New Mexico and Verde Corporate Realty Services. Dona Ana County would continue to use the land for airport purposes.

8:14 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Graves (MO) amendment Agreed to by voice vote.

8:11 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Graves (MO) amendment no. 26.

Amendment offered by Mr. Graves (MO).

An amendment numbered 26 printed in House Report 112-46 to prohibit the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) from destroying vintage aircraft type certificate data and to require such data to be made available to the public, for non-commercial purposes, upon a Freedom of Information Act request.

8:10 P.M. –

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

8:07 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Moore (WI) amendment no. 25.

Amendment offered by Ms. Moore.

An amendment numbered 25 printed in House Report 112-46 to require the Transportation Department Inspector General to report to Congress on the number of new small business concerns, including those owned by veterans and other disadvantaged groups, that participate in the projects carried out throughout the duration of the reauthorization bill. The report would list the top 25 and bottom 25 large- and medium-hub airports using such small businesses, assess the reasons why airports have been successful in using such small businesses and make recommendations to the FAA and Congress on how those successes can be replicated.

8:06 P.M. –

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

7:57 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Shuster amendment no. 24.

Amendment offered by Mr. Shuster.

An amendment numbered 24 printed in House Report 112-46 to improve Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rulemaking activities by requiring the Agency to recognize that the United States aviation industry is composed of a variety of different segments with different operating characteristics and requiring the FAA to tailor regulations to address the unique characteristics of each industry segment. The amendment also requires the FAA to conduct appropriate cost/benefit studies on all proposed regulations and only enact regulations upon a finding that the costs are justified by the benefits.

7:56 P.M. –

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

7:54 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Waxman amendment no. 23.

Amendment offered by Mr. Waxman.

An amendment numbered 23 printed in House Report 112-46 to encourage the FAA to work with the City of Santa Monica to achieve safety improvements at Santa Monica Airport, a general aviation facility that has no runway safety areas.

7:53 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Graves (MO) amendment Agreed to by voice vote.

7:45 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Graves (MO) amendment no. 22.

Amendment offered by Mr. Graves (MO).

An amendment numbered 22 printed in House Report 112-46 to provide relief for an air show in Cleveland, Ohio from complying with certain airspace restrictions.

7:44 P.M. –

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

7:34 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the LaTourette amendment no. 21.

7:33 P.M. –

Amendment offered by Mr. LaTourette.

An amendment numbered 21 printed in House Report 112-46 to strike section 903. Section 903 repeals a National Mediation Board (NMB) rule, finalized last year, which provides for union representation elections among airline and railroad workers covered by the Railway Labor Act.

7:32 P.M. –

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

7:23 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Sessions amendment no. 20.

Amendment offered by Mr. Sessions.

An amendment numbered 20 printed in House Report 112-46 to prevent any funds from this act to be used to administer or enforce Davis Bacon.

7:22 P.M. –

By unanimous consent, the Graves (MO) amendment was withdrawn.

7:17 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Graves (MO) amendment no. 19.

7:16 P.M. –

Amendment offered by Mr. Graves (MO).

An amendment numbered 19 printed in House Report 112-46 to clarify Congressional intent of 49 U.S.C. 40116(d)(2)(A)(iv) to prohibit taxes on businesses located at an airport when such revenue is not used for airport purposes.

7:15 P.M. –

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

Considered as unfinished business.

7:12 P.M. –

Mr. Woodall filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 194.

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

Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union rises leaving H.R. 658 as unfinished business.

7:11 P.M. –

On motion that the Committee now rise Agreed to by voice vote.

Mr. Woodall moved that the Committee now rise.

7:10 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Gingrey (GA) amendment Failed by recorded vote: 195 – 227 (Roll no. 212).

7:06 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Capuano amendment Failed by recorded vote: 187 – 235 (Roll no. 211).

7:02 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Hirono amendment Failed by recorded vote: 174 – 241 (Roll no. 210).

6:59 P.M. –

On agreeing to the DeFazio amendment Failed by recorded vote: 161 – 263 (Roll no. 209).

6:55 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Garrett amendment Failed by recorded vote: 120 – 303 (Roll no. 208).

6:48 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Mica amendment Agreed to by recorded vote: 251 – 168 (Roll no. 207).

6:26 P.M. –

UNFINIHSED 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.

6:25 P.M. –

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

6:18 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Gingrey amendment no. 18.

Amendment offered by Mr. Gingrey (GA).

An amendment numbered 18 printed in House Report 112-46 to prohibit FAA employees from using official–taxpayer sponsored–time for union activities during the official work day. It would not repeal the right of any FAA employee to collectively bargain or arbitrate.

6:17 P.M. –

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

6:12 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Capuano amendment no. 17.

6:11 P.M. –

Amendment offered by Mr. Capuano.

An amendment numbered 17 printed in House Report 112-46 to require greater disclosure of a passenger’s baggage fees when a fare is quoted to an airline passenger and require refunds for baggage that is lost, damaged, or delayed. The Secretary of Transportation would prescribe any requirements necessary to implement the baggage fee disclosures by ensuring that necessary information is shared between carriers and ticket agents that have an already existing agency appointment or contract.

On agreeing to the Richardson amendment Failed by voice vote.

6:03 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Richardson amendment no. 16.

Amendment offered by Ms. Richardson.

An amendment numbered 16 printed in House Report 112-46 to require air carriers to provide an option for passengers to receive a notification via electronic service if there are any changes to the status of their flight.

6:02 P.M. –

By unanimous consent, the Schweikert amendment was withdrawn.

5:55 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Schweikert amendment no. 15.

Amendment offered by Mr. Schweikert.

An amendment numbered 15 printed in House Report 112-46 to allow airlines currently operating out of DCA to convert flights to and from large hub airports located within the DCA perimeter to any airport outside of the DCA perimeter.

5:54 P.M. –

By unanimous consent, the Pierluisi amendment was withdrawn.

5:49 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Pierluisi amendment no. 14.

Amendment offered by Mr. Pierluisi.

An amendment numbered 14 printed in House Report 112-46 to authorize the Secretary of Transportation to continue the essential air service program in Puerto Rico following the sunset date of October 1, 2013. The bill authorizes continuation for Alaska and Hawaii.

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

5:47 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Woodall amendment.

5:46 P.M. –

Amendment offered by Mr. Woodall.

An amendment numbered 13 printed in House Report 112-46 to prohibit implementation by the FAA of a new rule interpretation relating to 14 CFR 135, sections 263 and 267(d) so far as it relates to air ambulances and air cargo charter pilot rest requirements. Sets the interpretation of those sections at the state they were on January 1, 2011.

On agreeing to the Miller (MI) amendment Agreed to by voice vote.

5:39 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Miller (MI) amendment.

Amendment offered by Mrs. Miller (MI).

An amendment numbered 12 printed in House Report 112-46 to direct the FAA to work with various federal agencies to integrate Unmanned Aerial Systems into the National Airspace System more expeditiously.

By unanimous consent, the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment was withdrawn.

5:31 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Jackson Lee amendment.

Amendment offered by Ms. Jackson Lee (TX).

An amendment numberedd 11 printed in House Report 112-46 to require a minimum of three on duty air traffic controllers.

5:30 P.M. –

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

5:21 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Hirono amendment no.10.

Amendment offered by Ms. Hirono.

An amendment numbered 10 printed in House Report 112-46 to establish an Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) to study and provide regulatory recommendations to the Federal Aviation Administrator to ensure that all certified aircraft is properly equipped with technology that maintains pilot visibility when dense, continuous smoke is present in the cockpit. The ARC would be directed to complete its work in one year and provide its recommendations to the Administrator who must inform Congress of the recommendations and outline what actions the agency will take on the basis of those recommendations.

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

5:11 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the DeFazio amendment.

Amendment offered by Mr. DeFazio.

An amendment numbered 9 printed in House Report 112-46 to require mechanics at contract repair stations certificated by the Federal Aviation Administration in the U.S. and in foreign countries to undergo the same criminal background checks required for mechanics and other aviation employees at U.S. airports.

5:10 P.M. –

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

4:59 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Garrett (NJ) amendment.

Amendment offered by Mr. Garrett.

An amendment numbered 7 printed in House Report 112-46 to require the FAA to study alternatives to the New York/New Jersey/Philadelphia airspace redesign to reduce delays at the 4 airports included in the redesign. Would also prohibit the FAA from continuing with the implementation of the airspace redesign until the study is submitted to Congress.

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

4:56 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the LoBiondo amendment.

Amendment offered by Mr. LoBiondo.

An amendment numbered 6 printed in House Report 112-46 to allow the FAA to assist in establishing a NextGen Research and Development Center of Excellence. The Center would leverage the FAA’s existing centers of excellence program, a program that relies on several university consortia to address ongoing FAA research and development challenges. The Center would provide educational, technical, and analytical assistance to the FAA and other agencies involved in the development of NextGen.

4:55 P.M. –

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

4:48 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Neugebauer amendment.

Amendment offered by Mr. Neugebauer.

An amendment numbered 5 printed in House Report 112-46 to direct the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to conduct a feasibility study on the development of an online public resource that would list the location and height of potential low-altitude aviation obstructions, such as guy-wire and free-standing towers. Would also give the Administrator one year to conduct the study and report to Congress.

4:47 P.M. –

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

4:39 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Hirono amendment.

Amendment offered by Ms. Hirono.

An amendment numbered 4 printed in House Report 112-46 to exempt Hawaii’s large and medium hub airports from collecting PFCs from interisland travelers due to the unique everyday travel circumstances the island state presents. Would also change the formula under which Hawaii’s annual federal apportionments are reduced when the State’s large and medium hub airports collect passenger facility charges from overseas travelers.

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

4:32 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Pierluisi amendment.

Amendment offered by Mr. Pierluisi.

An amendment numbered 3 printed in House Report 112-46 to ensure that airports in Puerto Rico are apportioned amounts under the Airport Improvement Program (AlP), while also remaining eligible for discretionary grants under the Program.

4:31 P.M. –

By unanimous consent, the Waters amendment was withdrawn.

4:25 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Waters amendment.

Amendment offered by Ms. Waters.

An amendment numbered 2 printed in House Report 112-46 to require airport operators, as a condition for receiving grants under the Airport Improvement Program, to consult with representatives of the community surrounding the airport regarding airport operations and their impact on the community.

4:24 P.M. –

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

4:13 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 189, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Mica amendment.

Amendment offered by Mr. Mica.

An amendment numbered 1 printed in House Report 112-46 to make technical corrections to provisions in the underlying bill.

2:58 P.M. –

GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 658.

2:57 P.M. –

The Speaker designated the Honorable Jo Ann Emerson to act as Chairwoman of the Committee.

House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 189 and Rule XVIII.

2:55 P.M. –

Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 658 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. In lieu of the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure now printed in the bill, it shall be in order to consider as an original bill for the purpose of amendment under the five-minute rule an amendment in the nature of a substitute consisting of the text of the Rules Committee Print dated March 22, 2011.

Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 189.

H.R. 872:

to amend the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to clarify Congressional intent regarding the regulation of the use of pesticides in or near navigable waters, and for other purposes

2:54 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 the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 292 – 130 (Roll no. 206).

2:46 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H. Res. 189:

providing for consideration of the bill ( 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

2:45 P.M. –

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 249 – 171 (Roll no. 205).

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

2:22 P.M. –

The previous question was ordered without objection.

1:25 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 189.

1:23 P.M. –

Considered as privileged matter.

12:38 P.M. –

POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE – Pursuant to clause 1 of rule IX, Mr. Kucinich rose to a point of personal privilege and was recognized by the Chair to proceed for one hour.

12:37 P.M. –

INVESTIGATIVE SUBCOMMITTEES OF THE COMMITTEE ON ETHICS – Pursuant to Clause 5(a)(4)(A) of Rule X, and the order of the House of January 5, 2011, the Speaker appointed Mr. Bishop of Utah, Mrs. Blackburn of Tennessee, Mr. Crenshaw of Florida, Mr. Latham of Iowa, Mr. Simpson of Idaho, Mr. Walden of Oregon, Mr. Olson of Texas, Mr. Latta of Ohio, Mr. Griffin of Arkansas, and Mr. Grimm of New York to be available to serve on Investigative Subcommittees of the Committee on Ethics for the 112th Congress .

12:12 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.

12:09 P.M. –

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Coffman of CO 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.

12:08 P.M. –

Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Dr. Charles Jackson, Sr., Brookland Baptist Church, West Columbia, South Carolina.

12:07 P.M. –

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 31.

10:45 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 Debate. 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 Virginia Foxx to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

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 on 3/10/2011 – the Republican led House:trying to eliminate FHA prg – the Senate


CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF MARCH 10, 2011

112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

4:40 P.M. –

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

H.R. 830:

to rescind the unobligated funding for the FHA Refinance Program and to terminate the program

4:36 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. 830.

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

On passage Passed by recorded vote: 256 – 171 (Roll no. 171).

4:30 P.M. –

On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by recorded vote: 185 – 243 (Roll no. 170).

4:12 P.M. –

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

4:03 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Deutch motion to recommit with instructions. The instructions contained in the motion seek to require the bill to be reported back to the House with amendments which provide a continuation of the provisions of the program for senior homeowners.

4:02 P.M. –

Mr. Deutch moved to recommit with instructions to Financial Services.

4:00 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.

The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 830.

3:59 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Waters amendment as modified Agreed to by recorded vote: 278 – 147 (Roll no. 169).

3:52 P.M. –

On agreeing to the Lynch amendment Failed by recorded vote: 184 – 243 (Roll no. 168).

3:28 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.

3:27 P.M. –

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – The Chair put the question on adoption of the Waters amendment and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mrs. Biggert demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.

3:21 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 150, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Waters amendment number 6, as modified, under the five-minute rule.

3:20 P.M. –

Waters amendment modified by unanimous consent.

3:19 P.M. –

Amendment offered by Ms. Waters.

An amendment numbered 6 printed in the Congressional Record to add a new section requiring the Secretary to post a statement prominently on the web which explains that the FHA Short Refinance Program has been terminated and includes a contact for borrowers who are uncertain as to how to proceed.

3:04 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 150, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on pro forma amendments under the five-minute rule.

3:02 P.M. –

Mrs. Biggert raised a point of order against the Garamendi amendment Mrs. Biggert stated that the amendment was not germane and violated clause 7 of rule 16. The Chair sustained the point of order.

2:56 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 150, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Garamendi amendment number 7 under the five-minute rule, pending reservation of a point of order.

Amendment offered by Mr. Garamendi.

An amendment numbered 7 printed in the Congressional Record to add a new section regarding treatment of bonuses for finacial sector employees.

2:55 P.M. –

Mrs. Biggert raised a point of order against the Holt amendment Mrs. Biggert stated that the amendment was not germane and violated clause 7 of rule 16. The Chair sustained the point of order.

2:52 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 150, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Holt amendment number 8 under the five-minute rule, pending reservation of a point of order.

Amendment offered by Mr. Holt.

An amendment numbered 8 printed in the Congressional Record to add a new section detailing modifications of real property standard deduction.

2:45 P.M. –

Mrs. Biggert raised a point of order against the Inslee amendment Mrs. Biggert stated that the amendment was not germane and violated clause 7 of rule 16. The Chair sustained the point of order.

2:42 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 150, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Inslee amendment number 14 under the five-minute rule, pending reservation of a point of order.

Amendment offered by Mr. Inslee.

An amendment numbered 14 printed in the Congressional Record to add a new section directing the Attorney General to pursue criminal prosecution of those who have failed to comply with State laws relating to foreclosure of mortgages on residential real property.

2:41 P.M. –

Mrs. Biggert raised a point of order against the Sanchez, Loretta amendment Mrs. Biggert stated that the amendment had the effect of increasing mandatory spending over a specified period of time and violated clause 10 of rule 21. The Chair sustained the point of order.

2:37 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 150, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Loretta Sanchez amendment in the nature of a substitute number 15 under the five minute rule, pending reservation of a point of order.

Amendment in the nature of a substitute offered by Ms. Sanchez, Loretta.

An amendment in the nature of a substitute numbered 15 printed in the Congressional Record to insert a complete new text detailing use of funding for an FHA Refinancing Program.

2:35 P.M. –

Mrs. Biggert raised a point of order against the Waters amendment Mrs. Biggert stated that the amendment was not germane and violated clause 7 of Rule XVI. The Chair sustained the point of order.

2:29 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 150, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Waters amendment number 5 under the five minute rule, pending reservation of a point of order.

Amendment offered by Ms. Waters.

An amendment numbered 5 printed in the Congressional Record to direct the Housing and Urban Development Department, in consultation with the Treasury Department, to conduct a study on the negative impacts of underwater mortgage loans on the housing market and economy of the United States and to report on the findings.

2:24 P.M. –

DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on pro forma amendments under the five-minute rule.

2:23 P.M. –

Mrs. Biggert raised a point of order against the Inslee amendment Mrs. Biggert stated that the amendment was not germane. The Chair sustained the point of order.

2:19 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 150, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Inslee amendment number 12 under the five minute rule, pending reservation of a point of order.

Amendment offered by Mr. Inslee.

An amendment numbered 12 printed in the Congressional Record to modify the bill’s required study by the Housing and Urban Development Department on the FHA Refinance Program’s use by, and effects on, certain homeowners to include a study on the need and appropriate guidelines for a replacement mortgage insurance program.

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

2:15 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 150, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Paulsen amendment number 4 under the five minute rule.

Amendment offered by Mr. Paulsen.

An amendment numbered 4 printed in the Congressional Record to include military servicemembers and veterans who have service-connected injuries, as well as survivors and dependents of such individuals, in a study on use of the FHA Refinance program.

2:14 P.M. –

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

2:00 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 150, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Lynch amendment number 3 under the five-minute rule.

Amendment offered by Mr. Lynch.

An amendment numbered 3 printed in the Congressional Record to strike language in the bill terminating the Mortgagee Letter 2010-23, which provided guidance for the FHA Refinance Program. The amendment also strikes language which prohibits the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development from issuing any regulation, order, or notice that is based on or substantially similar to such Mortgagee Letter.

1:59 P.M. –

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

1:56 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 150, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Fitzpatrick amendment number 11 under the five minute rule.

1:55 P.M. –

Amendment offered by Mr. Fitzpatrick.

An amendment numbered 11 printed in the Congressional Record to require any unexpected balances for the FHA Refinance Program that are rescinded and canceled under the bill to be retained in the general fund of the Treasury for reducing the debt of the federal government.

1:40 P.M. –

Mr. Bachus raised a point of order against the Maloney amendment Mr. Bachus stated that the amendment was not germane and violated clause 7 of Rule XVI. The Chair sustained the point of order.

1:33 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 150, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with debate on the Maloney amendment number 9 under the five minute rule, pending reservation of a point of order.

Amendment offered by Mrs. Maloney.

An amendment numbered 9 printed in the Congressional Record to add a section which lists the number of underwater mortgages in 43 states and the District of Columbia.

12:26 P.M. –

GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 830.

12:25 P.M. –

The Speaker designated the Honorable Charles F. Bass 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. 150 and Rule XVIII.

Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 830 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 read by section. Specified amendments are in order. 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 Financial Services now printed in the bill.

Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 150.

12:03 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 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.

12:01 P.M. –

Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Raymond Bowman, Spruce Street Baptist Church, Nashville, Tennessee.

12:00 P.M. –

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 10.

10:51 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 E. Latta to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

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

Convenes: 10:00am

Following any Leader remarks, there will be a period of morning business until 2:15pm, with senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

At 10:30am, Senator Moran will deliver his maiden speech to the Senate.

At 2:15pm, the Senate will proceed to Executive session to consider the nomination of Max Oliver, Jr., of North Carolina, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of North Carolina. There will be up to 15 minutes for debate on the nomination prior to a vote on confirmation of the nomination.

Senators should expect the vote on confirmation of the Oliver nomination to begin around 2:30pm.

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

There will be no further roll call votes during Thursday’s session of the Senate.

The Senate reached an agreement to consider Executive calendar #10, the nomination of James Boasberg, of the District of Columbia, to be U.S. District Judge for the District of Columbia, at 4:30pm on Monday, March 14.

Under the agreement, there will be up to 1 hour for debate equally divided prior to a vote on confirmation of the nomination.

Senators should the vote on confirmation to begin at approximately 5:30pm on Monday, March 14.

Today we were unable to reach an agreement to begin consideration of the Small Business Committee’s bill, S.493, the SBIR and STTR Reauthorization Act of 2011.

As a result, Senator Reid moved to proceed to the bill and filed cloture on the motion.

The cloture vote will occur Monday evening. There will be 2 votes at 5:30pm on Monday. The first vote will be on confirmation of James Boasberg (DC District Judge) and the second vote will be on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.493, the SBIR and STTR Reauthorization Act of 2011.

Votes:

38: Confirmation of Max Oliver, Jr., of North Carolina, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of North Carolina;

Confirmed: 96-0

Unanimous Consent:

Confirmed Timothy J. Feighery, of New York, to be Chairman of the Foreign Claims Settlement Commission of the US.

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What’s going on in Congress -the Republican led House:eliminated FHA prg (debating&voting) -the Senate dealing with budgets both were voted down


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

Morning business until 10:40am with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each equally divided and controlled with the Majority controlling the first half and the Republicans controlling the final half.

At 10:40am, the Senate will recess until 12:00pm for a Joint Meeting of Congress with the Honorable Julia Gillard, Prime Minister of Australia.

At 12pm, the Senate will proceed to H.R.1, the House-passed funding bill with 3 hours of debate equally divided between the two leaders or their designees. Upon the use or yielding back of time, at approximately 3pm, the Senate will proceed to a series of 2 roll call votes:

– Passage of H.R.1 (60-vote threshold)

– Adoption of the Inouye amendment #149, the Democratic alternative to H.R.1 (60-vote threshold)

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

There will be no roll call votes during today’s session.

Votes:

36: Passage of H.R.1 (60-vote threshold)

Not Passed: 44-56

37: Adoption of the Inouye amendment #149: , the Democratic alternative to H.R.1 (60-vote threshold);

Not Agreed To: 42-58

Unanimous Consent:

Adopted S.Res.63 is a resolution designating the first week of April 2011 as “National Asbestos Awareness Week”.

Adopted S.Res.97, a resolution affirming the importance of exercise and physical activity as key components of a healthy lifestyle, including in combating obesity, reducing chronic disease, and lowering health care costs.

 

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF MARCH 9, 2011

112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

2:43 P.M. –

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

2:36 P.M. –

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

2:35 P.M. –

The House received a communication from John Boehner, Speaker of the House of Representatives. The Speaker notified the House that he has appointed the Honorable Jerry Lewis, the Honorable Fred Upton, the Honorable Andy Harris, and the Honorable Frank R. Wolf to act as Speaker pro tempore to sign enrolled bills and joint resolutions through the remainder of the One Hundred Twelfth Congress.

JOINT ECONOMIC COMMITTEE – Pursuant to 15 U.S.C. 1024(a), and the order of the House of January 5, 2011, the Speaker appointed the following members of the House to the JOINT ECONOMIC COMMITTEE: Mr. Hinchey, Mrs. Maloney, Ms. Sanchez Loretta of and Mr. Cummings.

2:34 P.M. –

On approving the Journal Agreed to by recorded vote: 326 – 91, 1 Present (Roll no. 167).

2:26 P.M. –

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair annouced that the unfinished business was on the question of adoption of the Speaker’s approval of the Journal which had been postponed earlier in the legislative day.

H. Res. 150:

providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 830) to rescind the unobligated funding for the FHA Refinance Program and to terminate the program

2:25 P.M. –

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

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by recorded vote: 240 – 180 (Roll no. 166).

2:18 P.M. –

On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 235 – 186 (Roll no. 165).

1:18 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 150.

1:16 P.M. –

Considered as privileged matter.

H. Res. 151:

providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 836) to rescind the unobligated funding for the Emergency Mortgage Relief Program and to terminate the program

1:15 P.M. –

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

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

The previous question was ordered without objection.

12:27 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 151.

12:25 P.M. –

Considered as privileged matter.

12:04 P.M. –

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

PRINTING OF PROCEEDINGS IN RECORD – Mr. Hensarling asked unanimous consent that the proceedings had during the recess be printed in the Congressional Record of today. Agreed to without objection.

H. Res. 155:

electing a Member to a Standing Committee of the House of Representatives

12:03 P.M. –

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

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.

Considered as privileged matter.

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 9.

11:42 A.M. –

The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.

JOINT MEETING DISSOLVED – The Speaker announced that the Joint Meeting was dissolved and that the House would recess subject to the call of the Chair.

10:50 A.M. –

JOINT MEETING – The House has reconvened in Joint Meeting with the Senate to receive an address by the Honorable Julia Gillard, Prime Minister of Australia.

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 9.

10:04 A.M. –

The Speaker announced that the House would recess and would reconvene in a Joint Meeting with the Senate for the purpose of receiving the Honorable Julia Gillard, Prime Minister of Australia. The next meeting is subject to the call of the Chair.

10:03 A.M. –

The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate passed S. 23.

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

10:02 A.M. –

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS ON APPROVAL OF THE JOURNAL – The Chair announced that he had examined the Journal of the last day’s proceedings and had approved it. Mr. Womack 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. Womack objected to the voice vote based upon the absence of a quorum and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal until later in the legislative day.

10:01 A.M. –

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

10:00 A.M. –

The Speaker designated the Honorable Virginia Foxx to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

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Congress:debates & votes today -the Republican led House -the Senate


The Senate Convenes at  9:30amET March 8, 2011

Morning business for 2 hours with Senators permitted to speak for up to 10 minutes each with the Republicans controlling the first hour and the Majority controlling the final half.

Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of S.23, the America Invents Act, post-cloture.

By unanimous consent, all time during adjournment, morning business and recess will count post-cloture on S.23.

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

The Majority Leader hopes to reach an agreement regarding H.R.1 and the Democratic alternative. Senators should expect roll call votes during Tuesday’s session of the Senate.

The Senate has reached an agreement to complete action on S.23, America Invents Act, tonight and to set up votes on H.R.1 and the Democratic alternative offered by Senator Inouye tomorrow at 3pm.

Under the agreement, the Reid amendment #152 was withdrawn and the Reid amendment #143 (EPSCOR), was modified and agreed to. There will now there will be up to 30 minutes for debate equally divided prior to a vote on passage of S.23, as amended, the America Invents Act. Senators should expect the vote on passage to begin around 6:15pm, if all time is used. However, time may be yielded back.

Furthermore, at 12:00 noon tomorrow, Wednesday, March 9, there will be up to 3 hours for debate on H.R.1 and the Democratic alternative offered by Senator Inouye. Upon the use or yielding back of time, there will be 2 roll call votes on the following items:

– Passage of H.R.1, Department of Defense Appropriation and Long Term Continuing Resolution for Fiscal Year 2011; and

– Inouye substitute amendment #149 (Democratic Alternative).

Each proposal will be subject to 60-vote thresholds. If H.R.1 achieves 60 votes, it will be read a third time and passed and, if it doesn’t achieve 60 votes, Senator Reid will be recognized to offer the Inouye substitute amendment #149. If the Substitute achieves 60 votes, the bill, as amended, would be read a third time and passed, and if it doesn’t achieve 60 votes it will be returned to the calendar. No motions or amendments are in order to the substitute or the bill prior to the votes.

Cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.1 was vitiated.

Votes:

35: Passage of S.23, as amended, the America Invents Act;

Passed: 95-5

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

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF MARCH 8, 2011

112TH CONGRESS – FIRST SESSION

7:09 P.M. –

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

7:07 P.M. –

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

7:04 P.M. –

Mr. Bishop (UT) filed reports from the Committee on Rules, H. Res. 150 and H. Res. 151.

H. Res. 149:

electing a Member to a certain standing committee of the House of Representatives

7:03 P.M. –

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

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to without objection.

Mr. Larson (CT) asked unanimous consent to consider as introduced.

Considered by unanimous consent.

H.R. 525:

to amend the Public Health Service Act to enhance and increase the number of veterinarians trained in veterinary public health

7:01 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 the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 280 – 138 (Roll no. 164).

6:53 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 570:

to amend the Public Health Service Act to enhance the roles of dentists and allied dental personnel in the Nation’s disaster response framework, and for other purposes

6:52 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 the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 401 – 12 (Roll no. 163).

6:31 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

6:30 P.M. –

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.

The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of March 8.

4:31 P.M. –

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

4:30 P.M. –

The Speaker laid before the House a message from the President transmitting a notification that the national emergency with respect to Iran shall continue – referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs and ordered to be printed (H. Doc. 112-13).

H.R. 525:

to amend the Public Health Service Act to enhance and increase the number of veterinarians trained in veterinary public health

4:29 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.

4:23 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 525.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H.R. 570:

to amend the Public Health Service Act to enhance the roles of dentists and allied dental personnel in the Nation’s disaster response framework, and for other purposes

4:22 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.

4:13 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 570.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

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

4:12 P.M. –

The House received a communication from the Honorable Mrs. Christensen . Mrs. Christensen submitted her resignation from the Committee on Homeland Security. The resignation was accepted without objection.

The House received a communication from Robin Reeder, Archivist, Office of the Clerk. Pursuant to Rule VIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives, Ms. Reeder notified the House that she had been served with a civil subpoena, issued before the Evidentiary Panel for the State Bar of Texas, for documents 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.

The House received a communication from the Honorable Mrs. Christensen . Mrs. Christensen submitted her resignation from the Committee on Natural Resources. The resignation was accepted without objection.

4:01 P.M. –

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

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Ms. Foxx 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.

4:00 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 8.

2:23 P.M. –

The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 4:00 P.M. today.

2:00 P.M. –

MORNING-HOUR DEBATES – The House proceeded with Morning-Hour Debates. At the conclusion of Morning-Hour, the House will recess until 4:00 p.m. for the start of legislative business.

The Speaker designated the Honorable Kevin Yoder to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

The House convened, starting a new legislative day.