Tag Archives: United States

150 years after President Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address, President Obama penned a handwritten tribute to President Lincoln’s historic remarks.

Click here to read the essay — then pass it on.

What would President Truman say about this Congress?

Deputy Senior Advisor David Simas shares how a group of extreme Republicans in Congress have opposed the President’s legislative agenda at every turn and what they could get done if they simply schedule a vote on pressing national issues.

Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, Americans all over the country are enrolling in affordable health coverage. Many were unable to get insurance before and many others are signing up for new plans that offer better coverage than what they had before, often at lower costs.

Yesterday, Dr. Jill Biden and Labor Secretary Tom Perez made a visit to Cleveland Community College in North Carolina and Broward College in Florida as part of their “Community College to Career” tour designed to highlight innovative workforce training partnerships.

~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

Take Action: Lumber Liquidators threatens last Siberian Tigers

11/21/2013 Nativegrl77

A shocking new report shows direct ties between hardwood flooring giant Lumber Liquidators, organized crime, and the illegal logging of the habitat of the last 450 Siberian Tigers. This shameless disregard for the last few remaining members of the species in pursuit of cheap flooring is not only disgusting, it’s illegal under American law and has prompted a federal investigation.
Take Action: Tell Lumber Liquidators to immediately eliminate illegal hardwoods from its products.
Posing undercover as large scale lumber buyers, RAN’s awesome and much admired allies at the Environmental Investigation Agency infiltrated the worst of the worst of a shadowy network of illegal logging operations in Russia’s Far East and tracked their shipments back to their biggest customer, the largest retailer of flooring in the United States, Lumber Liquidators.
The remote area where this rapid deforestation is occurring is the last frontier of old growth hardwoods in the region and the last habitat in Russia for the highly endangered Siberian Tiger. Thanks to the US Lacey Act, amended in 2008 to ban the trade of illegal wood and forest products, this case is now under active investigation by the US Department of Justice.
For the amazing backstory of how this came to be, watch EIA’s video here and then read their recently released report Liquidating the Forests: Hardwood Flooring, Organized Crime and the World’s Last Siberian Tigers.
In order to retain even a shred of credibility, Lumber Liquidators needs to immediately and irrevocably take action to improve due diligence and bring itself into compliance with the Lacey Act. It must eliminate forest illegality, destruction and human rights violations from its supply chain. Lumber Liquidators must cut supply chain ties with Xiangjia, the supplier which is the source of this illegal hardwood, and adopt and implement a comprehensive procurement policy that ensures the company will never again be involved in destroying old growth and endangered forests, abuse of human rights and run away climate change.
The time for action is now—add your name here to send your message directly to Lumber Liquidators.

		For the forests,
		Christy Tennery Rainforest Free Paper campaigner

Black History

the Senate CONGRESS 11/21 the House

11/21/2013 Nativegrl77

The featured picture is of President Barack Obama and his moms … Family

All Americans should have the right to gain, experience have affordable comprehensive health care -Point4CounterPoint

The Senate stands in adjournment until 10:30am on Thursday, November 21, 2013.

Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of S.1197, the National Defense Authorization Act.

During Wednesday’s session of the Senate, cloture was filed on S.1197.

As result, the filing deadline for all first degree amendments to the bill is 1:00pm on Thursday.

During leader remarks, Senator Reid moved to proceed to S.1356, Workforce Investment Act of 2013.

At 11:08am, the Senate began a 15 minute roll call vote on the Reid motion to proceed to reconsider the vote by which cloture was not invoked on Executive Calendar #227, the nomination of Patricia Ann Millett, of Virginia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the District of Columbia Circuit;

Agreed To: 57-40 ( Hatch, Chambliss, Isakson voted present. Collins and Murkowski vote aye)).

11:29am The Senate began a 15 minute roll call vote on the motion to adjourn;

Not Agreed to: 46-54

11:46am the Senate began a 15 minute roll call vote on the motion to reconsider Executive Calendar #227, the nomination of Patricia Ann Millett, of Virginia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the District of Columbia Circuit

Agreed To: 57-43

Senator Reid raised a point of order that the vote on cloture for all nominations other than for the Supreme Court is by majority vote. The point of order was not sustained by the Chair. Senator Reid then appealed the ruling of the Chair and asked for the yeas and nays.

Senator McConnell then made a series of parliamentary inquires.

At 12:10pm, the Senate began a 15 minute roll call vote on the question: does the ruling of the chair stand that the cloture vote for all nominations other than for the Supreme Court is not by majority vote? Senator Reid will vote no. (Appealing rule of the chair vote) Senator Reid will vote no;

The Appeal of the ruling of the chair was not sustained 48-52

The ruling of the chair was not sustained by a vote of 48-53.

 
Chair:     UNDER THE PRECEDENT SET BY THE SENATE TODAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013,

THE THRESHOLD FOR CLOTURE ON NOMINATIONS, NOT INCLUDING THOSE

OF THE SUPREME COURT OF UNITED STATES, IS NOW A MAJORITY. THAT

IS THE RULING OF THE CHAIR.

Senator McConnell then appealed the ruling of the chair and asked for the yeas and nays.

           MR. McCONNELL: MAKE A POINT OF ORDER THAT NOMINATIONS ARE FULLY
           DEBATABLE URPD THE RULES OF THE SENATE UNLESS I WAS THERE OF
           SENATORS CHOSEN AND SWORN HAVE VOTED TO BRING DEBATE TO A
           CLOSE. UNDER THE PRECEDENT JUST SET BY THE SENATE, CLOTURE IS
           INVOKED AT A MAJORITY. THEREFORE, I APPEAL THE RULING OF THE
           CHAIR AND ASK FOR THE YEAS AND NAYS.

At 12:35, the Senate began a 15 minute roll call vote on the question: Shall the decision of the Chair stand as the judgment of the Senate?

Decision of the Chair: a vote on cloture for all nominations (other than for the Supreme Court) is by majority vote.

Sustained: 52-48

2:57pm The Senate began a 15 minute roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #327, the nomination of Patricia Ann Millett, of Virginia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the District of Columbia Circuit, upon reconsideration;

Invoked: 55-43

Under the new cloture rules for nominations (Rule 22), a majority vote is required to invoke cloture on all nominations, except for nominations to the Supreme Court.

There will now be up to 30 hours for debate on the Millett nomination.

Additional roll call votes are expected today.

We are working on an agreement to hold the cloture vote on S.1197, National Defense Authorization Act, and the adjournment resolution this afternoon. We could vote around 3:45pm.

Under Rule 22, the filing deadline for second degree amendments is 1 hour prior to the beginning of the cloture vote. We are working on a consent to set the filing deadline for second degree amendments for later today, potentially for 5pm.

Another message will be sent once any agreement is reached.

The Senate has reached an agreement that results in 2 roll call votes at 4:00pm today. Those votes are on the following items:

– Motion to invoke cloture on S.1197, National Defense Authorization Act; and

– Adopting of S.Con.Res.28, adjournment resolution.

The filing deadline for second degree amendments to S.1197, is 5pm today.

4:03pm The Senate began a 15 minute roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on S.1197, National Defense Authorization Act;

Not invoked: 51-44

Senator Reid changed his vote to no (for procedural reasons) and entered a motion to reconsider at a later time the vote by which cloture was not invoked.

4:31pm The Senate began a 15 minute roll call vote on adoption of S.Con.Res.28, adjournment resolution;

Adopted: 51-42

There will be no further roll call votes today.

Senator Schumer asked unanimous consent the Senate take up and pass S.1774, a bill to reauthorize the Undetectable Firearms Act of 1988 for 1 year. Senator Sessions objected.

If the Senate does not receive a message that the House has adopted S.Con.Res.28, the adjournment resolution, the Senate will meet conduct pro forma sessions only with no business conducted on the following dates and times:

Friday, November 22^nd at 11:15am
Tuesday, November 26^th at 11:00am
Friday, November 29^th at 1:00pm
Tuesday, December 3^rd at 11:00am and
Friday, December 6^th at 10:30am

If the Senate receives a message that the House has adopted S.Con.Res.28, the Senate will stand adjourned until 2:00pm on Monday, December 9^th.

WRAP UP

ROLL CALL VOTES

1) Reid motion to proceed to the motion to reconsider the vote by which cloture was not invoked on Executive Calendar #327, the nomination of Patricia Ann Millett, of Virginia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the District of Columbia Circuit; Agreed to: 57-40-3(present)

2) McConnell motion to adjourn until 5:00pm; Not Agreed to: 46-54

3) Reid motion to reconsider the vote by which cloture was not invoked on Executive Calendar #327, the Millett nomination; Agreed to: 57-43

4) Shall the decision of the Chair stand as the judgment of the Senate (cloture on nominations (other than Supreme Court nominees) require the votes of three-fifths of Senators duly chosen and sworn and not a majority)(Reid appeal of the chair); the decision of the Chair was not sustained: 52-48

5) Shall the decision of the Chair stand as the judgment of the Senate (cloture on nominations (other than Supreme Court nominees) is a majority vote) (McConnell appeal of the chair); the decision of the Chair was sustained: 52-48

6) Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #327, the nomination of Patricia Ann Millett, of Virginia, to be United States Circuit Judge for the District of Columbia Circuit, upon reconsideration; Invoked: 55-43

7) Motion to invoke cloture on S.1197, the National Defense Authorization Act; Not Invoked: 51-44

8) Adoption of S.Con.Res.28, Providing for a conditional adjournment or recess of the Senate and an adjournment of the House of Representatives; Adopted: 51-42

Additional LEGISLATIVE ITEMS

Began the Rule 14 process of the following bills:

S.1774, a bill to reauthorize the Undetectable Firearms Act of 1988 for 1 year. (Nelson-Schumer)
S.1775, the Victims Protection Act of 2013. (McCaskill)
H.R.1965, the Federal Lands Jobs and Energy Security Act. (Republican request)
H.R.2728, the Protecting States’ Rights to Promote American Energy Security Act. (Republican request)

Completed the Rule 14 process of S.1752, the Military Justice Improvement Act of 2013. (Gillibrand)

==================================================

Last Floor Action:
11:29:50 A.M. -H.R. 1900
On agreeing
to the Speier amendment (A003) Roll Call 607 – Recorded vote pending.

Last Floor Action:
9:03:02 A.M. – ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The
House proceeded with one minute speeches which by direction of the Chair, would
be limited to 5 per side of the aisle.

9:00:21 A.M.		The House convened, starting a new legislative day.
9:00:26 A.M.		The Speaker designated the Honorable Ted Poe to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.
9:00:47 A.M.		Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Patrick J. Conroy.
9:02:22 A.M.		The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.
9:02:25 A.M.		PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Bishop of UT to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
9:03:02 A.M.		ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches which by direction of the Chair, would be limited to 5 per side of the aisle.
9:18:40 A.M.	H.R. 1900	Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 420. H.R. 1900 — “To provide for the timely consideration of all licenses, permits, and approvals required under Federal law with respect to the siting, construction, expansion, or operation of any natural gas pipeline projects.”
9:18:45 A.M.	H.R. 1900	Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 1900 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.
9:18:58 A.M.	H.R. 1900	House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 420 and Rule XVIII.
9:19:01 A.M.	H.R. 1900	The Speaker designated the Honorable Ted Poe to act as Chairman of the Committee.
9:19:08 A.M.	H.R. 1900	GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 1900.
10:10:27 A.M.	H.R. 1900	An amendment, offered by Mr. Tonko, numbered 1 printed in House Report 113-272 to require the application for a natural gas pipeline to include information to ensure that methane emissions will be minimized before the application can be considered for approval.
10:10:30 A.M.	H.R. 1900	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 420, the Committee of Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Tonko amendment No. 1.
10:16:59 A.M.	H.R. 1900	POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Tonko amendment No. 1, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Tonko demanded a recorded vote, and the Chair postponed further proceedings on adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.
10:17:17 A.M.	H.R. 1900	An amendment, offered by Ms. Castor (FL), numbered 2 printed in House Report 113-272 to strike the provision that requires FERC to automatically issue other agencies’ permits if the deadline is missed.
10:17:19 A.M.	H.R. 1900	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 420, the Committee of Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Castor (FL) amendment No. 2.
10:27:09 A.M.	H.R. 1900	POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Castor (FL) amendment No. 2, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote announced that the noes had prevailed. Ms. Castor demanded a recorded vote, and the Chair postponed further proceedings on adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.
10:27:33 A.M.	H.R. 1900	An amendment, offered by Ms. Speier, numbered 3 printed in House Report 113-272 to toll the time limits until FERC has considered and responded to state or local objections or concerns about the pipeline project.
10:27:36 A.M.	H.R. 1900	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 420, the Committee of Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Speier amendment No. 3.
10:34:05 A.M.	H.R. 1900	POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Speier amendment No. 3, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote announced that the noes had prevailed. Ms. Speier demanded a recorded vote, and the Chair postponed further proceedings on adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.
10:34:32 A.M.	H.R. 1900	An amendment, offered by Ms. Jackson Lee, numbered 4 printed in House Report 113-272 to delay the implementation of the bill, if enacted, so long as sequestration is in effect.
10:34:35 A.M.	H.R. 1900	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 420, the Committee of Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment No. 4.
10:41:43 A.M.	H.R. 1900	POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment No. 4, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote announced that the noes had prevailed. Ms. Jackson Lee (TX) demanded a recorded vote, and the Chair postponed further proceedings on adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.
10:42:02 A.M.	H.R. 1900	An amendment, in the nature of a substitute offered by Mr. Dingell, numbered 5 printed in House Report 113-272 to replace the bill with a requirement that GAO complete a study on what, if any, delays are expected by FERC or other federal, state, or local permitting authorities in issuing permits regarding the siting, construction, expansion, or operation of any natural gas pipeline project.
10:42:06 A.M.	H.R. 1900	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 420, the Committee of Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Dingell amendment No. 5.
10:51:43 A.M.	H.R. 1900	POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Dingell amendment No. 5, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Dingell demanded a recorded vote, and the Chair postponed further proceedings on adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.
10:52:03 A.M.	H.R. 1900	UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on adoption of amendments which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.
11:24:06 A.M.	H.R. 1900	On agreeing to the Tonko amendment; Failed by recorded vote: (Roll no. 605).
11:29:39 A.M.	H.R. 1900	On agreeing to the Castor (FL) amendment; Failed by recorded vote: (Roll no. 606).
11:29:50 A.M.	H.R. 1900	On agreeing to the Speier amendment (A003) Roll Call 607 – Recorded vote pending.

11:34:29 A.M.	H.R. 1900	On agreeing to the Speier amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 183 – 236 (Roll no. 607).
11:39:21 A.M.	H.R. 1900	On agreeing to the Jackson Lee amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 175 – 243 (Roll no. 608).
11:44:03 A.M.	H.R. 1900	On agreeing to the Dingell amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 175 – 239 (Roll no. 609).
11:44:21 A.M.	H.R. 1900	The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 1900.
11:45:10 A.M.	H.R. 1900	The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.
11:45:57 A.M.	H.R. 1900	Mr. Tierney moved to recommit with instructions to Energy and Commerce.
11:46:25 A.M.	H.R. 1900	DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Tierney motion to recommit with instructions. The instructions contained in the motion seek to report the same back to the House forthwith, with an amendment to prevent any provisions of the underlying bill from taking effect unless the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, in consultation with appropriate regulatory agencies, determines that the implementation of the bill will not: adversely impact natural gas pipeline safety; or inhibit the ability of communities to meaningfully engage in the siting of natural gas pipelines that affect them.
11:50:25 A.M.	H.R. 1900	The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.
11:56:53 A.M.	H.R. 1900	On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 180 – 233 (Roll no. 610).
11:57:00 A.M.		The House received a message from the Clerk. The Clerk notified the House that she received a letter from the Honorable Tom Schedler, Secretary of State, State of Louisiana, indicating that, according to the unofficial returns of the Special Election held November 16, 2013, the Honorable Vance M. McAllister was elected Representative to Congress for the Fifth Congressional District, State of Louisiana.
11:58:19 A.M.		ADMINISTERING OATH OF OFFICE – Representative-Elect Vance M. McAllister, Fifth Congressional District, Louisiana, presented himself in the well of the House and the Speaker proceeded to administer the Oath of Office.
11:59:37 A.M.		The Dean of the Louisiana delegation, Representative Charles Boustany, and Represenative Cedric Richmond addressed the House and introduced Representative Vance M. McAllister, Fifth Congressional District, State of Louisiana.
12:03:38 P.M.		ADJUSTED WHOLE NUMBER OF THE HOUSE – Under clause 5(d) of rule 20, the Chair announced to the House that, in light of the administration of the oath to the gentleman from Louisiana, the whole number of the House is 432.
12:14:18 P.M.	H.R. 1900	On passage Passed by recorded vote: 252 – 165 (Roll no. 611).
12:14:20 P.M.	H.R. 1900	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
12:15:00 P.M.	H.R. 3381	Mr. Rogers (MI) announced that the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence has ordered the bill, H.R. 3381, the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014, reported favorably to the House with amendments and that if Members wish to review the classified information, they should contact the committee’s director of security to arrange a time and date.
12:16:00 P.M.		Mr. Rogers (MI) asked unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 10:00 a.m. on November 22. Agreed to without objection.
12:17:32 P.M.		ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.
12:42:58 P.M.		SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has proceeded to Special Order speeches without prejudice to the possible resumption of legislative business.
2:42:10 P.M.		United States Merchant Marine Academy – Pursuant to 46 U.S.C. 51312(b), and the order of the House of January 3, 2013, the Speaker appointed the following member of the House to the United States Merchant Marine Academy: Mr. King of NY.
2:42:15 P.M.		National Historical Publications and Records Commission – Pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 2501, and the order of the House of January 3, 2013, the Speaker appointed the following member of the House to the National Historical Publications and Records Commission: Mr. Barr (KY).
2:43:15 P.M.		Mr. Larson (CT) moved that the House do now adjourn.
2:43:25 P.M.		On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote.
2:43:30 P.M.		The House adjourned pursuant to a previous special order.The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on November 22, 2013.

=========================

~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

Feeding America and the Farm Bill

11/20/2013 Nativegrl77

76% of SNAP recipient households include a child, elderly person, or disabled person.

76% of SNAP recipient households include a child, elderly person, or disabled person. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), previously known as food stamps, helps over 47 million low-income Americans put food on the table by providing benefits that are timely, targeted, and temporary.
Learn how SNAP works and who qualifies for assistance»

Help Prevent Cuts to Anti-Hunger Programs

On
November 1, 2013, all SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program,
formerly know as food stamps) recipients will see a reduction in their
benefit levels because of legislation passed by the United States
Congress in 2010.

Cuts that will equal 1.9 billion meals no longer available to the
children, seniors, and disabled that rely on their SNAP benefits to help
put food on the table. That is more than half of what the entire
Feeding America network will distribute in the entire year!

You should also know that Congress is considering adding even larger
cuts to SNAP benefit levels and eligibility. Decisions that impact
Americans struggling with hunger in your community and across the
country are being made right now. Use your voice to help prevent these
cuts by telling your members of Congress to protect anti-hunger
programs.

Tell Congress to protect anti-hunger programs

Meet Jim, Real Stories of SNAP

For more than 40 years, Jim worked as a mechanic. When the economy crashed, business stopped. For rural clients like Jim the challenges of lower levels of education and concentration of low-wage industries can be hard to overcome. Jim knew he needed to apply for SNAP benefits (formerly known as food stamps) when after waiting for a customer payment all day – it simply never arrived. Without a cracker in the house he applied for food assistance and is glad he did. He would have had no other way to eat.

The Farm Bill

The Farm Bill, which is reauthorized every five years, is the single largest source of federal funding for federal hunger-relief programs. In addition to setting policy for programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) that put food on the table for Americans struggling with hunger, it covers a range of agriculture-related areas such as commodities, conservation, rural development, livestock, and energy.

In 2012, Congress was unable to pass a Farm Bill. Help us urge Congress to pass a strong Farm Bill that protects and strengthens programs that help Americans struggling with hunger put food on the table. Take Action Today!

Tax Policy and Deficit Reduction

Feeding America is actively engaged in protecting federal anti-hunger programs as Congress addresses how to reduce the deficit and balance our nation’s budget, as well as advocating for federal tax provisions that protect food and fund donations to the Feeding America food bank network.

Appropriations

Feeding America is engaged in advocating for a strong federal anti-hunger safety net through the Appropriations process and ensuring programs like TEFAP, CSFP, and WIC have adequate funding to meet the need.

Once Appropriations season heats up, we may need your help to ensure these programs are adequately funded, so stay tuned!

Black History

the Senate CONGRESS 11/20 the House

11/20/2013 Nativegrl77

The Senate stands adjourned until 9:30am on Wednesday, November 20, 2013. Following any Leader remarks, the Senate will be in a period of morning business for one hour for debate only with the Majority controlling the first half and the Republicans controlling the second half.

Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of S.1197, the National Defense Authorization Act. There will be up to 6 hours for debate only on the issue of sexual assault with the time divided as follows:

Senator Gillibrand, or her designee controlling three hours;
Senators McCaskill and Ayotte, or their designees, each controlling 75 minutes;
Ranking Member Inhofe, or his designee, controlling 20 minutes; and
Chairman Levin, or his designee, controlling 10 minutes.

We hope to reach an agreement to vote on the sexual assault-related amendments during Wednesday’s session.

Senator Reid asked unanimous consent to vote on the Gillibrand (SA #2099) and McCaskill-Ayotte (SA #2170) sexual assault amendments at 5:30pm tonight.

Senator Inhofe asked to modify the request that following disposition of the McCaskill/Ayotte amendment #2170, all pending amendments be withdrawn and the Republican manager or his designee be recognized to offer the next amendment in order to be followed by an amendment offered by the Majority side and the two sides continue to offer amendments in alternating fashion until all amendments are disposed of.

Senator Reid did not agree to the modification.

Senator Coburn then objected to the original Reid request.

The Senate is in a period of morning business for debate only until 7:30pm, with senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each. Roll call votes are unlikely tonight. Senator Reid will be recognized at 7:30pm.

WRAP UP

No ROLL CALL VOTES

LEGISLATIVE ITEMS

Adopted S.Res.304, Recognizing the 30^th Anniversary of the date of the restoration by the Federal Government of Federal recognition to the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon, November 22, 1983.

Adopted S.Res.305, Recognizing National Native American Heritage Month and celebrating the heritages and cultures of Native Americans and the contributions of Native Americans to the United States.

Adopted S.Res.306, designating Thursday, November 21, 2013, as “Feed America Day”.

Adopted S.Res.307, a resolution permitting the collection of clothing, toys, food, and housewares during the holiday season for charitable purposes in Senate buildings.

Adopted S.Res.308, Recognizing and supporting the goals and ideals of National Runaway Prevention Month.

Began the Rule 14 process of S.1752, the Military Justice Improvement Act of 2013. (Gillibrand)

Completed the Rule 14 process of S.1737, the Minimum Wage Fairness Act. (Harkin)

No EXECUTIVE ITEMS

Senator Reid filed cloture on S.1197, National Defense Authorization Act. The filing deadline for germane first degree amendments is 1:00pm, Thursday, November 21.

==============================================================

Last Floor Action:
7:08:25 P.M. – The House adjourned. The
next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on November 20, 2013.

10:00:34 A.M.		The House convened, starting a new legislative day.
10:00:42 A.M.		The Speaker designated the Honorable Thomas Massie to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.
10:01:07 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.
11:08:26 A.M.		The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 12:00 P.M. today.
12:00:49 P.M.		The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of November 20.
12:00:55 P.M.		Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Dr. Paul Taylor, St. Vincent Archabbey, Latrobe, Pennsylvania
12:02:53 P.M.		The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.
12:02:57 P.M.		PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Ms. Tsongas to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
12:03:13 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.
12:38:08 P.M.	H. Res. 420	Considered as privileged matter. H. Res. 420 — “Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 1900) to provide for the timely consideration of all licenses, permits, and approvals required under Federal law with respect to the siting, construction, expansion, or operation of any natural gas pipeline projects, and for other purposes.”
12:41:28 P.M.	H. Res. 420	DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 420.
1:46:20 P.M.	H. Res. 420	On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (Roll no. 592).
1:53:41 P.M.	H. Res. 420	On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by recorded vote: (Roll no. 593).
1:53:42 P.M.	H. Res. 420	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
1:54:11 P.M.	H.R. 1965	Considered as unfinished business. H.R. 1965 — “To streamline and ensure onshore energy permitting, provide for onshore leasing certainty, and give certainty to oil shale development for American energy security, economic development, and job creation, and for other purposes.”
1:54:52 P.M.	H.R. 1965	The House resolved into Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for further consideration.
2:00:23 P.M.	H.R. 1965	On agreeing to the Jackson Lee amendment; Failed by recorded vote: (Roll no. 594).
2:04:17 P.M.	H.R. 1965	On agreeing to the Lowenthal amendment; Failed by recorded vote: (Roll no. 595).
2:08:09 P.M.	H.R. 1965	On agreeing to the Jackson Lee amendment; Failed by recorded vote: (Roll no. 596).
2:12:45 P.M.	H.R. 1965	On agreeing to the Polis amendment; Failed by recorded vote: (Roll no. 597).
2:17:23 P.M.	H.R. 1965	On agreeing to the DeFazio amendment; Failed by recorded vote: (Roll no. 598).
2:17:29 P.M.	H.R. 1965	The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 1965.
2:18:13 P.M.	H.R. 1965	The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.
2:18:23 P.M.	H.R. 1965	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.
2:18:38 P.M.	H.R. 1965	On agreeing to the Rules amendment; Agreed to by voice vote.
2:19:31 P.M.	H.R. 1965	Mrs. Kirkpatrick moved to recommit with instructions to Natural Resources.
2:20:47 P.M.	H.R. 1965	DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Kirkpatrick motion to recommit with instructions. The instructions contained in the motion seek to require the bill to be reported back to the House forthwith with an amendment to insert language clarifying tax provisions applicable to defined major integrated oil companies. The amendment would also add a new section to the bill prohibiting the legislation from requiring the Secretary of the Interior to allow energy development that would negatively impact land that is identified by the Secretary, in consultation with affected Indian tribes, as a Native American sacred site or cultural site.
2:25:34 P.M.	H.R. 1965	The previous question on the motion to recommit with instructions was ordered without objection.
2:34:08 P.M.	H.R. 1965	On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by recorded vote: (Roll no. 599).
2:43:15 P.M.	H.R. 1965	On passage Passed by recorded vote: (Roll no. 600).
2:43:16 P.M.	H.R. 1965	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
2:43:33 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 had received a message from the Secretary of the Senate on November 20, 2013 at 11:51 a.m. stating that that body had passed H.R. 3304 with amendments and passed S. 381.
2:43:59 P.M.	H.R. 2728	Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 419. H.R. 2728 — “To recognize States’ authority to regulate oil and gas operations and promote American energy security, development, and job creation.”
2:44:04 P.M.	H.R. 2728	The resolution provides for consideration of H.R. 1965 and H.R. 2728. The resolution provides for one hour of debate and makes in order only those further amendments printed in the Rules report 113-271. The rule provides one motion to recommit with or without instructions.
2:44:13 P.M.	H.R. 2728	House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 419 and Rule XVIII.
2:44:14 P.M.	H.R. 2728	The Speaker designated the Honorable Kevin Yoder to act as Chairman of the Committee.
2:44:41 P.M.	H.R. 2728	GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 2728.

3:54:28 P.M.	H.R. 2728	An amendment, offered by Mr. Holt, numbered 1 printed in Part B of House Report 113-271 to allow the Secretary of the Interior to issue regulations to reduce methane emissions from oil and gas drilling operations on public lands.
3:54:30 P.M.	H.R. 2728	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 419, the Committee of Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Holt Part B amendment No. 1.
4:03:23 P.M.	H.R. 2728	POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Holt Part B amendment No. 1, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Holt demanded a recorded vote, and the Chair postponed further proceedings on adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.
4:03:51 P.M.	H.R. 2728	An amendment, offered by Mr. Flores, numbered 2 printed in Part B of House Report 113-271 to require states to submit a copy of their hydraulic fracturing regulations and chemical disclosure requirements to the BLM for public disclosure and provide other technical/clarifying changes.
4:03:55 P.M.	H.R. 2728	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 419, the Committee of Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Flores Part B amendment No. 2.
4:10:58 P.M.	H.R. 2728	On agreeing to the Flores amendment; Agreed to by voice vote.
4:11:28 P.M.	H.R. 2728	An amendment, offered by Mr. Reed, numbered 3 printed in Part B of House Report 113-271 to direct the GAO to conduct a study on the economic benefits of domestic oil and gas production as result of hydraulic fracturing including job creation, energy prices and State and Federal revenues.
4:11:30 P.M.	H.R. 2728	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 419, the Committee of Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Reed Part B amendment No. 3.
4:12:00 P.M.	H.R. 2728	Reed amendment; modified by unanimous consent.
4:17:25 P.M.	H.R. 2728	On agreeing to the Reed amendment; as modified Agreed to by voice vote.
4:17:52 P.M.	H.R. 2728	An amendment, offered by Mr. DeFazio, numbered 4 printed in Part B of House Report 113-271 to prohibit the export of natural gas produced from public lands.
4:17:54 P.M.	H.R. 2728	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 419, the Committee of Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the DeFazio Part B amendment No. 4.
4:29:15 P.M.	H.R. 2728	POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the DeFazio Part B amendment No. 4, 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 adoption of the amendment until a time to be announced.
4:29:50 P.M.	H.R. 2728	An amendment, offered by Ms. Jackson Lee, numbered 5 printed in Part B of House Report 113-271 to instruct the Secretary to conduct an annual review of any and all state hydraulic fracturing activity and submit a report to Congress.
4:29:52 P.M.	H.R. 2728	DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 419, the Committee of Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Jackson Lee (TX) Part B amendment No. 5.
4:34:25 P.M.	H.R. 2728	On agreeing to the Jackson Lee amendment; Agreed to by voice vote.
4:34:41 P.M.	H.R. 2728	UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on adoption of amendments which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings had been postponed.
4:35:50 P.M.	H.R. 2728	On agreeing to the Holt amendment (A002) Roll Call 601 – Recorded vote pending.

5:04:03 P.M.	H.R. 2728	On agreeing to the Holt amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 190 – 230 (Roll no. 601).
5:05:40 P.M.	H.R. 2728	MOMENT OF SILENCE – The House observed a moment of silence in remembrance of our brave men and women who have given their lives in the service of our country, and of all who serve in our armed forces and their familes.
5:12:29 P.M.	H.R. 2728	On agreeing to the DeFazio amendment; Failed by recorded vote: 142 – 276 (Roll no. 602).
5:13:02 P.M.	H.R. 2728	The House rose from the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union to report H.R. 2728.
5:13:17 P.M.	H.R. 2728	The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.
5:13:36 P.M.	H.R. 2728	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.
5:14:18 P.M.	H.R. 2728	Mr. Lowenthal moved to recommit with instructions to Natural Resources.
5:15:35 P.M.	H.R. 2728	DEBATE – The House proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Lowenthal motion to recommit with instructions. The instructions contained in the motion seek to require the bill to be reported back to the House forthwith with an amendment to ensure that the underlying bill does not limit the authority of the Department of Interior or any state to require the public disclosure of chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing.
5:30:09 P.M.	H.R. 2728	On motion to recommit with instructions Failed by recorded vote: 188 – 232 (Roll no. 603).
5:41:19 P.M.	H.R. 2728	On passage Passed by recorded vote: 235 – 187 (Roll no. 604).
5:41:21 P.M.	H.R. 2728	Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
5:41:31 P.M.		Mr. LaMalfa asked unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 9:00 a.m. on November 21. Agreed to without objection.
5:42:49 P.M.		ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.
5:49:24 P.M.		SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.