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A Texas-Sized Attack on Women


By  CAP Action War Room

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The GOP’s War on Women Marches On

Gov. Rick Perry (R-TX) called a special session of the Texas legislature to deal with redistricting (Texas’ redistricting plan was thrown out for violating the Voting Rights Act), but then subsequently added abortion to the agenda after Senate Democrats thwarted efforts to pass new restrictions during the legislature’s regular session.

The GOP’s assault on abortion rights includes measures similar to what we’ve seen in dozens of other states, including:

  • An unconstitutional ban on all abortions after 20 weeks with no exceptions for rape or incest.
  • Burdensome and unnecessary regulations that will have the effect of closing 37 of the states’s 42 abortion clinics.
  • A ban on medication abortions (abortions that use an abortion pill) via telemedicine.

In just the latest example of outrageous comments about rape and women’s bodies, the measure’s sponsor, Rep. Jody Laubenberg (R), bizarrely suggested that rape kits are a form of abortion. “In the emergency room they have what’s called rape kits where a woman can get cleaned out,” said Laubenberg.

The measure will leave women in rural Texas with almost no health care options. Some would have to drive 600 miles or more each way simply to consult with an abortion provider, meaning any procedure could take several days including transit time.

The session is over Tuesday at midnight and the Texas GOP is now trying to do everything it can to pass its sweeping attack on women’s rights before the deadline. Last night, hundreds of protesters flooded the Texas State Capitol as House Democrats tried unsuccessfully to block the bill, which was ultimately passed around 3:00 a.m.

Normally bills have to wait 24 hours after passage before they can be taken up the other chamber, but Senate Republicans sought to take advantage of the absence of one Democrat who was attending her father’s funeral to try and get around the limit and pass the bill immediately. While it appears that procedural maneuver will not be successful, a single Democrat will still have to filibuster the bill for the entirety of the remaining hours of the session in order to stop it from passing.

A poll out last week found that a majority of Texans oppose the bill and a whopping 80 percent of Texans don’t even think the legislature should be dealing with the issue during its special session.

We’ll keep you up to date as this story develops, but it’s clear that the GOP has no intention of halting their efforts to outlaw abortion nor their apparently endless series of insulting and offensive comments about rape.

Evening Brief: Important Stories That You Might’ve Missed

The Supreme Court’s stunning attack on workers’ rights.

Affirmative action survived its latest trip before the Supreme Court.

George Zimmerman’s lawyer begins murder trial with a knock knock joke.

Miami is doomed.

Justice Alito would like Justin Ginsburg to keep her opinions to herself.

Why you shouldn’t be surprised that the National Zoo lost a red panda.

Obama administration kicks off campaign to enroll millions using new health care marketplaces.

Immigration reform bill clears major hurdle, likely to pass the Senate by week’s end.

The Roberts Court almost always rules in favor of the nation’s top corporate lobbying group.

Black History

CONGRES: the Republican led House : pro forma Sessions : the Senate


The Senate will meet on the following dates at the following times for pro forma sessions only with no business conducted:

Friday, October 12th at 10:30am

Tuesday, October 16th at 10:00am

Friday, October 19th at 11:00am

Tuesday, October 23rd at 1:00pm

Friday, October 26th at 1:00pm

Tuesday, October 30th at 10:00am

Friday, November 2nd at 11:00am

Tuesday, November 6th at 11:00am

Friday, November 9th at 10:00am

the Senate Convenes: 2:00pmET  November 13, 2012

  • Following the prayer and the pledge, the Senate will resume consideration of the motion to proceed to Calendar #504, S.3525, the Sportsmen Act, post-cloture.
  • At 5:30pm, all post-cloture time will be yielded back and the Senate will conduct a roll call vote on the motion to proceed to S.3525.

——————————————————————————————————-

Last Floor Action: 10/09/2012

House hearings :

10/10 12:00 pm Hearing: The Security Failures of BenghaziCommittee on Oversight and Government Reform: Full Committee

     11:03:08 A.M. – The Speaker announced that the House do now adjourn pursuant to section 3(b) of H. Res. 788.

The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on October 12, 2012

Black History

CONGRESS: the Republican led House – the Senate considers S.3240,Farm bill & debates S.JRes.37,joint resolution of disapproval -EPA Mercury Air&Toxic Standards


the Seante Convenes: 10:00amET June 19, 2012

  • Following the prayer and pledge, the Majority Leader will be recognized.
  • Following Leader remarks, the next two hours will be equally divided and controlled between the two Leaders or their designees with the Majority controlling the first half and the Republicans controlling the final half.
  • The Senate will recess from 12:30pm until 2:15pm to allow for the weekly caucus meetings.
  • At 2:15pm, the Senate will resume consideration of S.3240, the Farm bill. At 2:15pm, there will be several roll call votes in relation to amendments to the bill.
  • At a time to be determined on Tuesday, the Senate will proceed to the consideration of the motion to proceed to S.J.Res.37, a joint resolution of disapproval regarding EPA’s Mercury Air and Toxics Standards. There will be 2 hours of debate during Tuesday’s session. The Senate will continue debate on the motion to proceed to the joint resolution on Wednesday. The Senate will then vote on the motion to proceed to the joint resolution on Wednesday, June 20th at approximately 12:30pm.

2:24pm – The Senate began a roll call vote on Ayotte amendment #2192 (value added grants), Not Agreed To: 38-61

2:53pm The Senate began a roll call vote on Snowe amendment #2190, as modified; Agreed To: 66-33

3:17pm The Senate began a roll call vote on Grassley amendment #2167 (pay cap marketing loans); Agreed to: 75-24

3:36pm The Senate began a roll call vote on the Brown (OH) amendment #2445 (rural development); Agreed to: 55-44

3:55pm The Senate began a roll call vote on the Sessions amendment #2174 (SNAP); Not Agreed to: 43-56

4:11pm The Senate began a roll call vote on the Cantwell amendment #2370 (pulse crops); Agreed to: 58-41

4:32pm The Senate began a roll call vote on the Sessions amendment #2171 (SNAP); Not Agreed to: 41-58

4:47pm The Senate began a roll call vote on the Casey amendment #2238 (study re: federal milk marketing): Agreed To: 73-26

5:07pm The Senate began a roll call vote on Roll Call Vote on Paul amendment #2181 ($250,000 income limit); Not Agreed To: 15-84

5:32pm The Senate began a roll call vote on Alexander #2191 (wind loans); Not Agreed To: 33-66

5:56pm The Senate began a roll call vote on Feinstein amendment #2422 (insurance recall study); Agreed To: 76-23

6:16pm The Senate began a roll call vote on Toomey amendment #2217 (organic/AMA); Not Agreed to: 42-57

6:35pm The Senate began a roll call vote on the Gillibrand amendment #2156, as modified (SNAP); Not Agreed to: 33-66

6:57pm The Senate began a roll call vote on the DeMint amendment #2263 (broadband funding); Not Agreed To: 45-54

7:23pm The Senate began a roll call vote on DeMint amendment #2268 (loan guarantees); Not Agreed To: 14-84

7:45pm The senate began a roll call vote on DeMint amendment #2276 (checkoffs); Not Agreed To: 20-79

7:58 There will be no further roll call votes today. Senators should expect votes to begin as early as 11:15am tomorrow.

8:14 By unanimous consent, the Bennet-Crapo amendment #2202 (improve agricultural land easements) is in order to the Farm bill. We expect to agree to the amendment by voice vote tomorrow.

 

We expect to begin voting at 11:15am tomorrow. The first vote will be on the motion to proceed to Inhofe’s resolution of disapproval to be followed by votes in relation to the remaining amendments in order to the Farm bill and on passage of the bill.  If we have to vote on all the amendments, there would be up to 47 roll call votes in this series. I again noted the amendments we could consider by voice vote, but there are only 9 amendments on that list.  Senators should expect a long day of voting tomorrow.

The vote sequence is as follows:

– Motion to proceed to S.J.Res.37, a joint resolution disapproving a rule promulgated by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency relating to emission standards for certain steam generating units

If the motion to proceed is not agreed to, the Senate will resume the Farm bill and proceed to vote in relation to the following items:

– Manchin #2345 (dietary study) (possible voice vote);

– DeMint #2273 (broadband);

– Merkley #2382 (organic crop insurance);

– Coburn #2289 (MAP);

– Schumer #2427 (acer);

– Coburn #2293 (Limit Millionaires);

–  Stabenow #2453 (NAP);

– Kerry #2454 (North Korea);

– Kyl #2354 (North Korea);

– Udall(CO) #2295 (bark beetle);

– Lee #2313 (Forest Legacy);

– Warner #2457 (rural broadband);

– Lee #2314 (CSP/CRP cut);

– Wyden #2442 (microloans);

– Boozman #2355 (Ag research, law info) (possible voice vote);

– Wyden #2388 (farm to school);

– Boozman #2360 (TEFAP)

– Leahy #2204 (rural development);

– Toomey #2226 (energy title);

– Nelson(NE) #2242 (rural housing) (possible voice vote);

– Toomey #2433 (sugar);        

– Klobuchar #2299 (transportation study) (possible voice vote);

– Lee Motion to Recommit (FY 2008 levels);

– Carper #2287 (poultry feed research) (possible voice vote);

– Johnson(WI) Motion to Recommit (Nutrition/Agriculture titles);

– Sanders #2254 (biomass);

– Chambliss #2438 (conservation crop insurance);

– Thune #2437 (crop insurance);

– Durbin-Coburn #2439 (crop insurance);

– Chambliss #2340 (sugar);

– Chambliss #2432 (FMPP);

– Ayotte #2195 (GAO crop insurance fraud report) (possible voice vote);

                                    – Blunt #2246 (veterans) (possible voice vote);

– Moran #2403 (food aid);

                                    – Moran #2443 (beginning farmers) (possible voice vote);

– Vitter #2363 (pets) (possible voice vote);

                                    – Toomey #2247 (paperwork) (60-vote threshold);

– Sanders #2310 (genetically engineered food) (60-vote threshold);

– Coburn #2214 (convention funding) (60-vote threshold);

– Boxer #2456 (aerial inspections) (60-vote threshold);

– Johanns #2372 (aerial inspections) (60-vote threshold);

– Murray # 2455(sequestration) (60-vote threshold);

– McCain #2162 (Sequestration report – DoD) (60-vote threshold);

– Rubio #2166 (RAISE Act) (60-vote threshold);

– Bennet-Crapo amendment #2202 (improve agricultural land easements) (expect voice vote); and

– Passage of S.3240, as amended.

WRAP UP

ROLL CALL VOTES

1)      Ayotte amendment #2192 (value added grants) to S.3240, the Farm bill; Not Agreed To: 38-61

2)      Snowe amendment #2190 (milk marketing order reform); Agreed To: 66-33

3)      Grassley amendment #2167 (pay cap marketing loans); Agreed To: 75-24

4)      Brown (OH) amendment #2445 (rural development); Agreed To: 55-44

5)      Sessions amendment #2174 (SNAP); Not Agreed To: 43-56

6)      Cantwell amendment #2370 (pulse pilot); Agreed To: 58-41

7)      Sessions amendment #2172 (SNAP); Not Agreed To: 41-58

8)      Casey amendment #2238 (technical/study-federal milk marketing); Agreed To: 73-26

9)      Paul amendment #2181 ($250,000 income limit); Not Agreed To: 15-84

10)  Alexander amendment  #2191 (wind loans); Not Agreed To: 33-66

11)  Feinstein amendment #2309 (insurance recall); Agreed To: 76-23

12)  Toomey amendment #2217 (organic/AMA); Not Agreed To: 42-57

13)  Gillibrand amendment #2156, as modified (SNAP); Not Agreed To: 33-66

14)  DeMint amendment #2263 (broadband funding); Not Agreed To: 45-54

15)  DeMint amendment #2268 (loan guarantees); Not Agreed To: 14-84

16)  DeMint amendment #2276 (checkoffs); Not Agreed To: 20-79

LEGISLATIVE ITEMS

Passed S.3314, to specifically authorize certain funds for an intelligence-related activity and for other purposes by voice vote.

Adopted S.Res.496, observing the historical significance of Juneteenth Independence Day.

Adopted S.Res.497, congratulating the Los Angeles Kings on winning the 2012 Stanley Cup.

Adopted S.Res.498, designating June 20, 2012, as “American Eagle Day”.

Adopted S.Res.499, 10th anniversary of the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering.

No EXECUTIVE ITEMS

————————————————————————————

Last Floor Action:                     6:48:02 P.M. – SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.

House Floor Activities
Legislative Day of June 19, 201210:00:12 A.M.		 The House convened, starting a new legislative day.
10:00:26 A.M. The Speaker designated the Honorable Daniel Webster to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.
10:00:48 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.
11:02:33 A.M. The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 P.M. today.
12:00:17 P.M. The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of June 19.
12:00:29 P.M. Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.
12:01:45 P.M. The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.
12:01:48 P.M. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Welch to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
12:02:07 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.
12:19:11 P.M. H. Res. 688 Considered as privileged matter. H. Res. 688 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 2578) to amend the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act related to a segment of the Lower Merced River in California, and for other purposes.”
12:20:22 P.M. H. Res. 688 DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 688.
Black History

CONGRESS: the Republican led House – – the Senate considers HR2072 amendments


the Senate Convenes: 10:00amET May 15, 2012

  • Following the prayer and pledge, the Majority Leader will be recognized.
  • It is the Majority Leader’s intention to resume consideration of the motion to proceed to H.R.2072, the Export-Import Bank Reauthorization Act with the first hour equally divided and controlled between the two Leaders or their designees with the Majority controlling the first half and the Republicans controlling the final half.
  • At 11:15am, the motion to proceed to H.R.2072 will be adopted and the Senate will begin consideration of the bill. The only first degree amendments in order to the bill are the following:
  • Lee amendment #2100 (phase-out);
  • Paul amendment #2101 (limitation on Ex-Im support);
  • Corker amendment #2102 (export credit agencies);
  • Vitter amendment #2103 (energy development); and
  • Toomey amendment #2104 ($40 billion increase contingency).
  • There will be up to two hours of debate to run concurrently on the amendments and the bill, equally divided, between the two Leaders, or their designees, prior to votes in relation to the amendments in the order listed above. Upon disposition of the amendments, the Senate will vote on passage of the bill, as amended, if amended. There will be two minutes equally divided prior to each vote; and all after the first vote be ten minute votes. The amendments and passage of the bill are subject to a 60 affirmative vote threshold. Senators should expect up to 6 roll call votes as early as 2:15pm on Tuesday.
  • The Senate will recess from 12:30pm until 2:15pm to allow for the weekly caucus meetings.

The following amendments have been considered to H.R.2072, the Export-Import Bank Reauthorization Act:

Following Leader remarks on Wednesday, May 16, there will be up to 6 hours for debate prior to a series of roll call votes on motions to proceed to the Budget resolutions listed below.

– Calendar #357, S.Con.Res.41 (Sessions-his interpretation of the Obama budget);

– Calendar #354, H.Con.Res.112 (Ryan);

– Calendar #356, S.Con.Res.37 (Toomey);

– Calendar #384, S.Con.Res.42 (Paul); and

– Calendar #395, S.Con.Res.44 (Lee, Paul, DeMint).

If all time is used, senators should expect a series of up to 5 roll call votes to begin around 4pm tomorrow. There will be 2 minutes for debate equally divided between the votes. All after the first vote will be ten minute votes.

Notwithstanding the adoption of any motion to proceed, the Senate would proceed to the remaining votes on motions to proceed. At the conclusion of these votes, the Senate would resume consideration of the budget resolution if a motion to proceed is adopted. If no motion to proceed has been adopted, the Majority Leader will be recognized.

 Prior to agreeing to the consent, Senator Heller asked consent to vote on S.1981 (No Budget, No Pay Act). Senator Conrad declined to modify his request.

At approximately 2:45pm today, the Senate will proceed to a series of up to 6 roll call votes in relation to the following items:

– Lee #2100 (terminate Ex-Im Bank);

– Paul #2101 (debt instruments)

– Corker #2102 (private sector financing);

– Vitter #2103 Energy products);

– Toomey #2104 (lending authority); and

– Passage of H.R.2072, Export-Import Bank Reauthorization, as amended, if amended.

2:43pm The Senate began a roll call vote on Lee amendment #2100 (terminate Export-Import Bank); Not Agreed To: 12-87

3:13pm The Senate began a roll call vote on Paul amendment #2101 (U.S. debt instruments); Not Agreed To: 9-89

3:34pm The Senate began a roll call vote on Corker amendment #2102 (private sector financing); Not Agreed To: 36-62

3:54pm The Senate began a roll call vote on Vitter amendment #2103 (energy products); Not Agreed to: 37-61

4:14pm The Senate began a roll call vote on the Toomey amendment #2104 (lending authority); Not Agreed to: 35-63

4:38pm The Senate began a roll call vote on passage of H.R.2072, the Export-Import Bank Reauthorization Act; Passed: 78-20

 4:44pm There will be no further roll call votes during today’s session of the Senate.

5:13pm Following passage of Export-Import Bank Reauthorization (78-20), Senator Reid moved to proceed to S.2343 (Student Loans). The Senate then turned to Executive Session and Senator Reid filed cloture on the following nominations:

– Executive Calendar #646, Jeremy C. Stein, of Massachusetts, to be a Member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System; and

– Executive Calendar #647, Jerome H. Powell, of Maryland, to be a Member of Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.

5:16pm Senator Reid asked unanimous consent to take up and pass Legislative Calendar #366, S.2344, an extension of National Flood Insurance program through December 31, 2012. Senator Coburn objected.

WRAP UP

ROLL CALL VOTES

1) Lee amendment #2100 (terminate Ex-Im Bank) to H.R.2072, the Export-Import Bank Reauthorization Act; Not Agreed To: 12-87

2) Paul amendment #2101 (debt instruments); Not Agreed To: 9-89

3) Corker amendment #2102 (private sector financing); Not Agreed To: 36-62

4) Vitter amendment #2103 (energy products); Not Agreed To: 37-61

5) Toomey amendment #2104 (lending authority); Not Agreed To: 35-63

6) Passage of H.R.2072, Export-Import Bank Reauthorization; Passed: 78-20

LEGISLATIVE ITEMS

Adopted S.Res.460, designating the week of May 20 through May 26, 2012, as “National Public Works Week”.

Adopted S.Res.461, recognizing the teachers of the United States for their contributions to the development and progress of our Nation.

Completed the Rule 14 process of H.R.5652, Sequester Replacement Reconciliation Act of 2012. (Republican request)

Began the Rule 14 process of S.3187, Food and Drug Administration Safety and Innovation Act. (Harkin & Enzi)

No EXECUTIVE ITEMS

———————————————————————————————-

Hearing:

Chen Guangcheng: His Case, Cause, Family, and Those Who are Helping Him Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, and Human Rights

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF MAY 15, 2012

 112TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION

-The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on May 16, 2012.9:31:36 P.M. -On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.9:31:26 P.M. -Ms. Edwards moved that the House do now adjourn.8:24:47 P.M. -SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House resumed Special Order speeches.8:23:29 P.M. -Ms. Foxx filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 656.7:36:36 P.M. -SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.7:33:20 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.7:32:54 P.M. -SPEAKER’S APPOINTMENT – Pursuant to section 201(b) of the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 (22 U.S.C. 6431 note), as amended, and the order of the House of January 5, 2011, the Chair announced the Speaker’s appointment of the following member on the part of the House to the Commission on International Religious Freedom for a term ending May 14, 2014: Mr. Elliot Abrams, Virginia.7:31:58 P.M. -H.R. 4045Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.7:31:56 P.M. -H.R. 4045On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.7:12:58 P.M. -H.R. 4045DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 4045.7:12:56 P.M. -H.R. 4045Considered under suspension of the rules.7:12:30 P.M. -H.R. 4045Mr. Kline moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 4045 — “To modify the Department of Defense Program Guidance relating to the award of Post-Deployment/Mobilization Respite Absence administrative absence days to members of the reserve components to exempt any member whose qualified mobilization commenced before October 1, 2011, and continued on or after that date, from the changes to the program guidance that took effect on that date.”7:10:54 P.M. -H.R. 205The title of the measure was amended. Agreed to without objection.7:10:52 P.M. -H.R. 205Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.7:10:51 P.M. -H.R. 205On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 400 – 0 (Roll no. 252).7:03:37 P.M. -H.R. 205Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 205 — “To amend the Act titled “An Act to authorize the leasing of restricted Indian lands for public, religious, educational, recreational, residential, business, and other purposes requiring the grant of long-term leases”, approved August 9, 1955, to provide for Indian tribes to enter into certain leases without prior express approval from the Secretary of the Interior.”7:03:17 P.M. -H.R. 3874The title of the measure was amended. Agreed to without objection.7:03:13 P.M. -H.R. 3874Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.7:03:13 P.M. -H.R. 3874On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 400 – 1 (Roll no. 251).6:56:34 P.M. -H.R. 3874Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 3874 — “To provide for the conveyance of eight cemeteries that are located on National Forest System land in Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota.”6:56:08 P.M. -H.R. 365Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.6:56:07 P.M. -H.R. 365On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 394 – 1 (Roll no. 250).6:31:02 P.M. -H.R. 365Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 365 — “To encourage, enhance, and integrate Blue Alert plans throughout the United States in order to disseminate information when a law enforcement officer is seriously injured or killed in the line of duty.”6:30:29 P.M. -H.R. 4310UNANIMOUS CONSENT – Mr. Bartlett asked unanimous consent that the Committee on Armed Services be authorized to file a supplemental report on H.R. 4310.6:30:28 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of May 15.6:21:51 P.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess for a period of less than 15 minutes.6:20:35 P.M. -H. Res. 568At 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.5:54:42 P.M. -The House resumed debate on H. Res. 568.5:53:51 P.M. -The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate passed H.R. 2072, without amendment.5:43:26 P.M. -H. Res. 568DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 568.5:43:24 P.M. -H. Res. 568Considered under suspension of the rules.5:43:06 P.M. -H. Res. 568Ms. Ros-Lehtinen moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended. H. Res. 568 — “Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding the importance of preventing the Government of Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapons capability.”5:42:59 P.M. -H.R. 4240Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.5:42:55 P.M. -H.R. 4240On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.5:38:55 P.M. -H.R. 4240DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 4240.5:38:52 P.M. -H.R. 4240Considered under suspension of the rules.5:38:39 P.M. -H.R. 4240Ms. Ros-Lehtinen moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 4240 — “To reauthorize the North Korean Human Rights Act of 2004, and for other purposes.”5:37:54 P.M. -H.R. 205At 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.5:27:47 P.M. -H.R. 205DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 205.5:27:43 P.M. -H.R. 205Considered under suspension of the rules.5:27:28 P.M. -H.R. 205Mr. Bishop (UT) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 205 — “To amend the Act titled “An Act to authorize the leasing of restricted Indian lands for public, religious, educational, recreational, residential, business, and other purposes requiring the grant of long-term leases”, approved August 9, 1955, to provide for Indian tribes to enter into certain leases without prior express approval from the Secretary of the Interior.”5:27:04 P.M. -H.R. 3874At 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.5:21:54 P.M. -H.R. 3874DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3874.5:21:51 P.M. -H.R. 3874Considered under suspension of the rules.5:21:33 P.M. -H.R. 3874Mr. Bishop (UT) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 3874 — “To provide for the conveyance of eight cemeteries that are located on National Forest System land in Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota.”5:21:23 P.M. -H.R. 2745At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Heinrich objected to the vote on the grounds that a quorum was not present. Further proceedings on the motion were postponed. The point of no quorum was withdrawn.5:15:56 P.M. -H.R. 2745DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2745.5:15:55 P.M. -H.R. 2745Considered under suspension of the rules.5:15:50 P.M. -H.R. 2745Mr. Bishop (UT) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 2745 — “To amend the Mesquite Lands Act of 1986 to facilitate implementation of a multispecies habitat conservation plan for the Virgin River in Clark County, Nevada.”5:15:30 P.M. -H.R. 2621At the conclusion of debate, the chair put the question on the motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Heinrich objected to the vote on the grounds that a quorum was not present. Further proceedings on the motion were postponed. The point of no quorum was withdrawn.5:09:34 P.M. -H.R. 2621DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2621.5:09:33 P.M. -H.R. 2621Considered under suspension of the rules.5:09:00 P.M. -H.R. 2621Mr. Bishop (UT) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 2621 — “To establish the Chimney Rock National Monument in the State of Colorado, and for other purposes.”5:07:47 P.M. -H.R. 3534Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.5:07:44 P.M. -H.R. 3534On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.4:55:57 P.M. -H.R. 3534DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3534.4:55:55 P.M. -H.R. 3534Considered under suspension of the rules.4:55:37 P.M. -H.R. 3534Mr. Smith (TX) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 3534 — “To amend title 31, United States Code, to revise requirements related to assets pledged by a surety, and for other purposes.”4:54:11 P.M. -H.R. 365At 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.4:34:50 P.M. -H.R. 365DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 365.4:34:38 P.M. -H.R. 365Considered under suspension of the rules.4:34:20 P.M. -H.R. 365Mr. Smith (TX) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 365 — “To encourage, enhance, and integrate Blue Alert plans throughout the United States in order to disseminate information when a law enforcement officer is seriously injured or killed in the line of duty.”4:33:02 P.M. -H.R. 4119At 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.4:18:55 P.M. -H.R. 4119DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 4119.4:18:39 P.M. -H.R. 4119Considered under suspension of the rules.4:18:22 P.M. -H.R. 4119Mr. Smith (TX) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 4119 — “To reduce the trafficking of drugs and to prevent human smuggling across the Southwest Border by deterring the construction and use of border tunnels.”4:17:56 P.M. -H.R. 1864Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.4:17:53 P.M. -H.R. 1864On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.4:08:27 P.M. -H.R. 1864DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 1864.4:08:24 P.M. -H.R. 1864Considered under suspension of the rules.4:08:00 P.M. -H.R. 1864Mr. Coble moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended. H.R. 1864 — “To limit the authority of States to tax certain income of employees for employment duties performed in other States.”4:07:59 P.M. -The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until 6:30 p.m. today.4:06:50 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of May 15.2:14:08 P.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 4:00 P.M. today.2:12:29 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House continued one minute speeches.2:12:01 P.M. -The House received a message from the Clerk. Pursuant to the permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II of the Rules of the U.S. House of Representatives, the Clerk notified the House that she received a message from the Secretary of the Senate on May 14, 2012 at 1:34 p.m. stating that that body had passed H.R. 4967 without amendment and S. 418.2:11:29 P.M. -The House received a communication from The Honorable Darrell Issa, Chairman, Committee on Oversight and GovernmentReform. Pursuant to Rule VIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives, Chairman Issa notified the House that the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform had been served with a subpoena, issued by the United States District Court for the District of Columbia, for documents, and that after consultation with the Office of General Counsel, he would make the determinations required by Rule VIII.2:11:08 P.M. -The House received a communication from The Honorable Darrell Issa. Pursuant to Rule VIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives, Representative Issa notified the House that he had been served with a subpoena, issued by the United States District Court for the District of Columbia, for trial testimony, and that after consultation with the Office of General Counsel, he would make the determinations required by Rule VIII.2:05:23 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches.2:04:17 P.M. -PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Womack to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.2:04:13 P.M. -The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.2:01:15 P.M. -Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.2:00:59 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of May 15.12:05:52 P.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 2:00 P.M. today.12:00:50 P.M. -MORNING-HOUR DEBATE – The House proceeded with Morning-Hour Debate. At the conclusion of Morning-Hour, the House will recess until 2:00 p.m. for the start of legislative business.12:00:38 P.M. -The Speaker designated the Honorable Rob Bishop to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.12:00:27 P.M. -The House convened, starting a new legislative day.

Black History

Congress: the Republican led House vote on Highway&Mass Transit bill attached XL pipeline – the Senate resumes S.1789 & S.1925


the Senate Convened at 9:30amET April 18, 2012

  • Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the motion to proceed to S.1925, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act with the first hour equally divided and controlled between the two Leaders or their designees with the Majority controlling the first half and the Republicans controlling the final half.
  • As a reminder to all Senators, cloture was filed on the Lieberman-Collins substitute amendment #2000, as modified and on S.1789, the Postal Reform bill on Tuesday. If no agreement is reached, the cloture vote on the substitute amendment will occur Thursday morning.
  • The filing deadline for first degree amendments to the Lieberman-Collins substitute amendment #2000, as modified and to S.1789 is 1:00pm on Wednesday.

At 2:15pm, there will be a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Lieberman-Collins substitute amendment #2000, as modified.  If cloture is not invoked, there will be a 2nd roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on S.1789, the Postal Reform bill.

We continue to work on an agreement regarding amendments to the Postal Reform bill and will notify Senators if such an agreement is reached.

The filing deadline for 2nd degree amendments to the Lieberman-Collins substitute amendment #2000, as modified and to S.1789, the Postal Reform bill is 11:00am on Thursday. If your Senator has a germane 2nd degree amendment and would like to preserve his or her ability to offer, please send a signed copy of the amendment to the cloakroom prior to the deadline.  If you have already filed, there is no need to re-file.

No ROLL CALL VOTES

LEGISLATIVE ITEMS

Discharged Judiciary and adopted S.Res.406, a resolution commending the achievements and recognizing the importance of the Alliance to Save Energy on the 35th anniversary of the incorporation of the Alliance.

Adopted S.Res.425, designating April 23, 2012, as “National Adopt a Library Day”.

Adopted S.Res.426, congratulating the Lady Bears of Baylor University on winning the 2012 NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Championship.

No EXECUTIVE ITEMS

——————————————————————————-

the Republican led House plans to cut Military Food Stamps from Budget

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS

LEGISLATIVE DAY OF APRIL 18, 2012

 112TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION

-SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.5:08:44 P.M. -ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.5:08:16 P.M. -The House received a communication from the Honorable James P. McGovern, Member of Congress. Pursuant to Rule VIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives, Mr. McGovern notified the House that he had been served with a subponea for testimony issued by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Industrial Accidents and that after consultation with the Office of General Counsel, he had determined that because the subpoena is not “material and relevant”, compliance with the subpoena is inconsistent with the privileges and precedents of the House.5:07:34 P.M. -Mr. Gibson asked unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 9:00 a.m. on April 19. Agreed to without objection.5:07:07 P.M. -H.R. 2453Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.5:07:06 P.M. -H.R. 2453On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 408 – 4, 2 Present (Roll no. 171).4:59:41 P.M. -H.R. 2453Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 2453 — “To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of Mark Twain.”4:59:37 P.M. -H.R. 4348Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.4:59:37 P.M. -H.R. 4348On passage Passed by recorded vote: 293 – 127 (Roll no. 170).4:49:23 P.M. -H.R. 4348On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by recorded vote: 176 – 242 (Roll no. 169).4:32:11 P.M. -H.R. 4348The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.4:22:08 P.M. -H.R. 4348DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Polis 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 to prohibit the use of Highway Trust Fund revenues from being used for the construction of highways in foreign countries, and rescinds over $12 million in funds available for a road in Canada. It would also eliminate a $3.7 billion corridor earmark under the Appalachian Development Highway System program.4:21:47 P.M. -H.R. 4348Mr. Polis moved to recommit with instructions to Transportation.4:20:59 P.M. -H.R. 4348The House adopted the amendments en gross as agreed to by the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union.4:20:47 P.M. -H.R. 4348The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.4:20:04 P.M. -H.R. 4348The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 4348.4:19:58 P.M. -H.R. 4348On agreeing to the Ribble amendment; Agreed to by recorded vote: 255 – 165 (Roll no. 168).3:51:00 P.M. -H.R. 4348UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was on the question of adoption of the Ribble amendment which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.3:50:43 P.M. -H.R. 4348On agreeing to the McKinley amendment; Agreed to by voice vote.3:37:50 P.M. -H.R. 4348DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 619, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the McKinley amendment.3:37:48 P.M. -H.R. 4348An amendment, offered by Mr. McKinley,  numbered 3 printed in House Report 112-446 to insert the text of H.R. 2273, Coal Residuals Reuse and Management Act. Would leave regulation and enforcement of coal combustion residuals to the states, and utilize the existing framework and requirements of federal regulatory programs for those states to follow.3:37:03 P.M. -H.R. 4348POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Ribble 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 later in the legislative day.3:25:06 P.M. -H.R. 4348DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 619, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Ribble amendment.3:25:04 P.M. -H.R. 4348An amendment, offered by Mr. Ribble,  numbered 2 printed in House Report 112-446 to add to the bill the environmental streamlining provisions from Title III of the American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Act (H.R. 7).3:24:37 P.M. -H.R. 4348On agreeing to the Boustany amendment; Agreed to by voice vote.3:07:58 P.M. -H.R. 4348DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 619, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Boustany amendment.3:07:56 P.M. -H.R. 4348An amendment, offered by Mr. Boustany,  numbered 1 printed in House Report 112-446 to include a guarantee that requires that the total amount available for spending from the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) each fiscal year be equal to the Trust Fund receipts as estimated by the President’s budget for that year.1:55:12 P.M. -H.R. 4348GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 4348.1:55:01 P.M. -H.R. 4348The Speaker designated the Honorable Lynn A. Westmoreland to act as Chairman of the Committee.1:55:00 P.M. -H.R. 4348House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 619 and Rule XVIII.1:54:46 P.M. -H.R. 4348Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 4348 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 consideration of the bill, and provisions in the bill. The resolution waives all points of order against the amendments printed in the report.1:54:41 P.M. -H.R. 4348Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 619. H.R. 4348 — “To provide an extension of Federal-aid highway, highway safety, motor carrier safety, transit, and other programs funded out of the Highway Trust Fund pending enactment of a multiyear law reauthorizing such programs, and for other purposes.”1:54:26 P.M. -On approving the Journal Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 295 – 118, 2 Present (Roll no. 167).1:48:00 P.M. -UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was on the question of agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal on which the yeas and nays had been demanded and on which further proceedings had been postponed.1:47:44 P.M. -H. Res. 619Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.1:47:43 P.M. -H. Res. 619On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by recorded vote: 246 – 177 (Roll no. 166).1:40:25 P.M. -H. Res. 619On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 243 – 180 (Roll no. 165).12:28:21 P.M. -H. Res. 619DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 619.12:26:21 P.M. -H. Res. 619Considered as privileged matter. H. Res. 619 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4348) to provide an extension of Federal-aid highway, highway safety, motor carrier safety, transit, and other programs funded out of the Highway Trust Fund pending enactment of a multiyear law reauthorizing such programs, and for other purposes.”12:04:18 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.12:04:10 P.M. -PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Lankford to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.12:03:07 P.M. -POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS ON APPROVAL OF THE JOURNAL – The Chair announced that he had examined the Journal of the last day’s proceedings and had approved it. Mr. Wilson (SC) 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. Wilson (SC) demanded the yeas and nays 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.12:02:14 P.M. -Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.12:00:11 P.M. -The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of April 18.10:46:05 A.M. -The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 P.M. today.10:00:58 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.10:00:29 A.M. -The Speaker designated the Honorable Daniel Webster to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.10:00:13 A.M. -The House convened, starting a new legislative day.