Tag Archives: vote

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Pledging Allegiance To Failed Policies


Today, House Republicans are unveiling the “Pledge to America” — a pre-election document styled after 1994’s Contract with America — at a hardware store in Sterling, VA. The plan sorts policy items into “five broad categories” — jobs, government reform, federal spending, national security, and health care — and is part of “an effort to respond to the allegation that the GOP is the ‘party of no.'” “It’s important to show what Republicans are for,” said one House Republican involved in the drafting. The document only includes two items regarding social issues — defending “traditional marriage” and preventing taxpayer funding of abortion in line with the current Hyde amendment — and Republican aides have “cautioned against comparing the new proposal with the party’s original Contract With America.” In fact, only incumbent lawmakers were involved in its drafting, and they won’t even be signing it. “The new agenda is not a political platform, aides said, but rather an outline of the party’s targets in the final weeks of the legislative session,” the New York Times reported. If that’s the case, then, the document makes it abundantly clear that House Republicans are ready to double down on the failed policies of the Bush administration, on everything from taxes and federal spending to national security, and want to undo some of the strong progressive policies enacted by the current Congress.

REVIVING BUSH’S DEFICITS AND TAX CUTS: First and foremost, the Pledge calls for retaining the entirety of the Bush tax cuts — rejecting President Obama’s plan to save $830 billion by letting the tax cuts for the richest two percent of Americans expire on schedule — and cutting overall government spending back to the 2008 level next year, thus literally embracing Bush’s tax and spending policies. As the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities has pointed out, cutting the budget back to 2008 levels across-the-board means 21 percent reductions in discretionary programs, including more than $8 billion in cuts to K-12 education. But the cuts don’t come close to eliminating the deficit, particularly considering the GOP plans to pass $4 trillion more in tax cuts, plus an additional small business tax cut. Of course, endorsing an across-the-board cut, instead of laying out specific areas of the budget that can be pared back alongside responsible revenue increases, epitomizes the Republican approach to budgeting. In fact, when directly asked, many House Republicans, including House Minority Whip Eric Cantor (VA), can’t name a single program they’d like to cut. And already, some Republicans are saying that the Pledge isn’t even radical enough when it comes to cutting spending. “It’s not taking us where we ultimately have to go as a country, dealing with entitlements and permanent tax changes,” said Rep. Devin Nunes (R-CA) who has reportedly “advocated for a plan that dealt specifically with Social Security.” Notably, Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI) — the Republican budget chief who has released a full plan for privatizing Social Security and Medicare — was not scheduled to appear at the Pledge unveiling, confirming that many in the Republican leadership are hesitant to publicly tie themselves to his proposals.

REPEALING HEALTH CARE REFORM: The Republican pledge also dedicates an entire section to repealing the Affordable Care Act and replacing it with some of the same solutions that the GOP promoted during the health care reform debate, such as medical malpractice reform (which won’t do much to bring down health care costs) and allowing insurance to be sold across state lines (which would lead to a regulatory race to the bottom). However, repealing the ACA will add $143 billion to the deficit over ten years, according to the Congressional Budget Office, as the cost containment measures and revenue increases in the bill also disappear. Interestingly, the Pledge also says that Republican health care reform will prevent health insurance companies from discriminating against people with pre-existing conditions, but without including an individual mandate that everyone purchase health insurance. Of course, as Newsweek’s Ben Adler explains, “Such a prohibition is economically infeasible without the individual mandate that health-care reform included,” as people wouldn’t buy health insurance until after they get sick. Forcing insurance companies to cover those with pre-existing conditions also puts House Republicans at odds with conservatives like former Gov. Mike Huckabee (R-AR), who has likened the prohibition to automobile insurers being forced to insure already wrecked cars.

BRING ON THE SHUTDOWN: One of the most notorious episodes of the Congress that was sworn in after the original Contract with America was the government shutdown of 1995. For three weeks, then-House Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-GA) shuttered the government after Congress was unable to approve a budget. And House Republicans are already saying that they’re game for a repeat performance. “If government shuts down, we want you with us,” said Rep. Lynn Westmoreland (R-GA). “It’s going to take some pain for us to do the things that we need to do to right the ship.” Rep. Steve King (R-IA) has demanded a “blood oath” from House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-OH) to include a repeal of health care reform in every appropriations bill next year, even if a government shutdown results. “We must not blink,” he said. “If the House says no, it’s no.” Boehner, for his part, has disavowed the notion, saying, “Our goal is not to shut down the government.” “It’s absurd,” added Sen. Judd Gregg (R-NH). “That’s not our goal at all.” But Gingrich himself seems to think that another government shutdown would be productive, even though it means, among other things, that Social Security payments and veterans’ benefits are not disbursed. “When we win control of the House and Senate this fall, Stage One of the end of Obamaism will be a new Republican Congress in January that simply refuses to fund any of the radical efforts,” Gingrich said. Such talk has earned the GOP a scolding from President Clinton. “You see what happened last time: It didn’t work out very well for them,” Clinton said.

Black History

What’s going on in Congress debates/Votes -S.3628


The Senate Convenes: 9:30amET September 23,2010

morning business until 10:30am with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each, with the Republicans controlling the first half and the Majority controlling the final half.

Following morning business, the Senate will proceed to the consideration of S.J.Res.30, a joint resolution of disapproval regarding the National Mediation Board with up to 2 hours of debate with the time equally divided and controlled between Senators Harkin and Isakson.

At approximately 12:30pm, the Senate will conduct a roll call vote on the motion to proceed to S.J.Res.30

Upon disposition of S.J.Res.30, the Senate will proceed to consideration of the motion to proceed to S.3628, the DISCLOSE Act with the time until 2:15pm equally divided and controlled between the two Leaders or their designees. At approximately 2:15pm, the Senate will conduct a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.3628.

There will be no further roll call votes on Thursday.

Votes:
239: Motion to proceed to S.J.Res.30, a joint resolution of disapproval of the rule submitted by the National Mediation Board relating to representation election procedures,
Not Agreed to: 43-56

240: Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to S.3628, the DISCLOSE Act,
Not Invoked: 59-41

Unanimous Consent:
H.R.4853, Airport and Airway Extension Act (w/ substitute amendment – extends existing authorities until 12/31/10)

S.Res.583, World Veterinary Year

S.Res.640, a resolution expressing the sense of the Senate regarding United States engagement with ASEAN and its member-states

S.Res.641, a resolution observing the 5th anniversary of the date on which Hurricane Rita devastated the coasts of Louisiana and Texas

S.Res.642, a resolution congratulating the National Institute of Nursing Research on the occasion of its 25th anniversary

S.Res.643, a resolution designating the week beginning October 3, 2010, as “National Nurse-Managed Health Clinic Week”

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

The next meeting scheduled in the House is for 10:00amET September 23,2010

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF SEPTEMBER 23, 2010
111TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION

7:44 P.M. –

SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House resumed Special Order speeches.

7:43 P.M. –

Ms. Foxx requested the following general leaves to address the House on September 30: Mr. Jones for 5 min.

Ms. Foxx requested the following general leaves to address the House on September 24: herself for 5 min and Mr. Dent for 5 min.

7:20 P.M. –

SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House resumed Special Order speeches.

Mr. Ellison asked unanimous consent That when the House adjourns on Friday, September 24, 2010, it adjourn to meet at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 28, 2010, for morning-hour debate. Agreed to without objection.

6:59 P.M. –

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

6:55 P.M. –

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

H. Res. 1618:

urging the Federal Government, States, localities, schools, nonprofit organizations, businesses, other entities, and the people of the United States to observe National Preparedness Month, and for other purposes

6:54 P.M. –

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

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

6:43 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1618.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H.R. 1517:

to allow certain U.S. Customs and Border Protection employees who serve under an overseas limited appointment for at least 2 years, and whose service is rated fully successful or higher throughout that time, to be converted to a permanent appointment in the competitive service

6:42 P.M. –

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

On motion that the House suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendment Agreed to by voice vote.

6:35 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on the motion to suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendment to H.R. 1517.

Mr. Thompson (MS) moved that the House suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendment.

S. 846:

to award a congressional gold medal to Dr. Muhammad Yunus, in recognition of his contributions to the fight against global poverty

6:34 P.M. –

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

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

6:09 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 846.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Carson (IN) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

S. 1055:

to grant the congressional gold medal, collectively, to the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, United States Army, in recognition of their dedicated service during World War II

6:08 P.M. –

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

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

5:24 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 1055.

5:23 P.M. –

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Carson (IN) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

S. 3717:

to amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Investment Company Act of 1940, and the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 to provide for certain disclosures under section 552 of title 5, United States Code, (commonly referred to as the Freedom of Information Act), and for other purposes

5:21 P.M. –

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

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

4:57 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 3717.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Frank (MA) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

S. 3814:

to extend the National Flood Insurance Program until September 30, 2011

4:55 P.M. –

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

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

4:48 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 3814.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Ms. Waters moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

H. Res. 1545:

expressing support for designation of the week beginning on the third Monday in September as “National Postdoc Appreciation Week”

4:47 P.M. –

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

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

4:41 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1545.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Polis (CO) moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H. Res. 1582:

honoring and saluting Americans for the Arts on its 50th anniversary

4:40 P.M. –

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

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

4:25 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House resumed debate on H.Res. 1582.

H.R. 5875:

making emergency supplemental appropriations for border security for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2010, and for other purposes

4:23 P.M. –

Senate amendment and accompanying papers returned to Senate pursuant to H.Res. 1653.

S. 3187:

to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the funding and expenditure authority of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund, to amend title 49, United States Code, to extend authorizations for the airport improvement program, and for other purposes

Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 1653, papers are returned to the Senate.

S. 3162:

to clarify the health care provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs that constitutes minimum essential coverage

Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 1653, papers are returned to the Senate.

S. 2799:

to expand the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996, to provide for the divestment of assets in Iran by State and local governments and other entities, to identify locations of concern with respect to transshipment, reexportation, or diversion of certain sensitive items to Iran, and for other purposes

Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 1653, papers are returned to the Senate.

S. 1023:

to establish a non-profit corporation to communicate United States entry policies and otherwise promote leisure, business, and scholarly travel to the United States

Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 1653, papers are returned to the Senate.

S. 951:

to authorize the President, in conjunction with the 40th anniversary of the historic and first lunar landing by humans in 1969, to award gold medals on behalf of the United States Congress to Neil A. Armstrong, the first human to walk on the moon; Edwin E. “Buzz” Aldrin Jr., the pilot of the lunar module and second person to walk on the moon; Michael Collins, the pilot of their Apollo 11 mission’s command module; and, the first American to orbit the Earth, John Herschel Glenn Jr

Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 1653, papers are returned to the Senate.

H. Res. 1582:

honoring and saluting Americans for the Arts on its 50th anniversary

4:19 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1582.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Polis (CO) moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H. Res. 1560:

supporting the increased understanding of, and interest in, computer science and computing careers among the public and in schools, and to ensure an ample and diverse future technology workforce through the designation of National Computer Science Education Week

4:18 P.M. –

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

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

4:06 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1560.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Polis (CO) moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H.R. 6190:

to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the funding and expenditure authority of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund, to amend title 49, United States Code, to extend the airport improvement program, and for other purposes

4:04 P.M. –

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

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

3:52 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House resumed debate on H.R. 6190.

3:51 P.M. –

The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate passed H.R. 4853 amended.

H.R. 6190:

to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the funding and expenditure authority of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund, to amend title 49, United States Code, to extend the airport improvement program, and for other purposes

3:46 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 6190.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Lewis (GA) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

H.R. 5710:

to amend and reauthorize the controlled substance monitoring program under section 399O of the Public Health Service Act

3:43 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): 384 – 32 (Roll no. 544).

3:36 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 1745:

to amend the Public Health Service Act to provide liability protections for volunteer practitioners at health centers under section 330 of such Act

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): 417 – 1 (Roll no. 543).

3:28 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 3199:

to amend the Public Health Service Act to provide grants to State emergency medical service departments to provide for the expedited training and licensing of veterans with prior medical training, and for other purposes

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 412 – 5 (Roll no. 542).

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

3:20 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 5756:

to amend title I of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 to provide for grants and technical assistance to improve services rendered to children and adults with autism, and their families, and to expand the number of University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disablities Education, Research, and Service

3:19 P.M. –

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

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

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 393 – 24 (Roll no. 541).

3:11 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 5307:

to amend the Tariff Act of 1930 to include ultralight aircraft under the definition of aircraft for purposes of the aviation smuggling provisions under that Act

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

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

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 412 – 3 (Roll no. 540).

3:03 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

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

H.R. 5297:

to create the Small Business Lending Fund Program to direct the Secretary of the Treasury to make capital investments in eligible institutions in order to increase the availability of credit for small businesses, and for other purposes

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

On motion that the House agree to the Senate amendment Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 237 – 187 (Roll no. 539).

2:33 P.M. –

The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.

1:34 P.M. –

DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1640, the House proceeded with one hour of debate on the motion to concur in the Senate amendment to the bill H.R. 5297.

1:32 P.M. –

Ms. Bean moved that the House agree to the Senate amendment.

H. Res. 1653:

returning several measures to the Senate

1:26 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.

H.R. 4823:

to establish the Sedona-Red Rock National Scenic Area in the Coconino National Forest, Arizona, and for other purposes

1:24 P.M. –

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Failed by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 258 – 160 (Roll no. 538).

1:15 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 5110:

to modify the boundary of the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, and for other purposes

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Failed by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 244 – 174 (Roll no. 537).

1:08 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H. Res. 1640:

providing for consideration of the Senate amendment to the bill ( H.R. 5297) to create the Small Business Lending Fund Program to direct the Secretary of the Treasury to make capital investments in eligible institutions in order to increase the availability of credit for small businesses, to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax incentives for small business job creation, and for other purposes

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

On agreeing to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 226 – 186 (Roll no. 536).

12:59 P.M. –

On ordering the previous question Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 230 – 181 (Roll no. 535).

12:51 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question on ordering the previous question, adoption of H.Res. 1640, and on motions to suspend the rules which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings were postponed.

12:50 P.M. –

On motion to table the appeal of the ruling of the Chair Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: 236 – 172 (Roll no. 534).

12:23 P.M. –

Mr. Hastings (FL) moved to table the appeal of the ruling of the Chair.

The Chair announced that the pending question is will the decision of the Chair stand as the judgement of the House?

Mr. Price (GA) moved to appeal the ruling of the Chair.

12:09 P.M. –

Pursuant to a previous special order, Mr. Price (GA) rose to a question of the privileges of the House and submitted a privileged resolution. The Chair directed the Clerk to report the resolution. The Clerk completed the reading of the submitted resolution and upon examination of the resolution, the Chair announced that the resolution did not constitute a question of the privileges of the House.

H.R. 5307:

to amend the Tariff Act of 1930 to include ultralight aircraft under the definition of aircraft for purposes of the aviation smuggling provisions under that Act

12:08 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.

11:54 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5307.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H.R. 6156:

to renew the authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services to approve demonstration projects designed to test innovative strategies in State child welfare programs

11:50 A.M. –

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

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

11:42 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 6156.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

S. 1674:

to provide for an exclusion under the Supplemental Security Income program and the Medicaid program for compensation provided to individuals who participate in clinical trials for rare diseases or conditions

11:41 A.M. –

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

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

11:16 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 1674.

Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

11:15 A.M. –

The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until the conclusion of general debate on all suspensions.

11:14 A.M. –

The House received a message from the Senate. The Senate passed H.R. 3980 amended, H.R. 4667, H.R. 5682, S. 3828, S. 2906, and S. 1448.

H. Res. 1640:

providing for consideration of the Senate amendment to the bill ( H.R. 5297) to create the Small Business Lending Fund Program to direct the Secretary of the Treasury to make capital investments in eligible institutions in order to increase the availability of credit for small businesses, to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax incentives for small business job creation, and for other purposes

11:13 A.M. –

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on H.Res. 1640, the Chair put the question on ordering the previous question and by voice vote announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Lincoln Diaz-Balart demanded the yeas and nays, and the Chair postponed further proceedings on ordering the previous question until later in the legislative day.

10:26 A.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 1640

Considered as privileged matter.

10:06 A.M. –

ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches which by direction of the Chair, would be limited to 10 per side of the aisle.

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

The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.

10:05 A.M. –

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

The House convened, starting a new legislative day

~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

Republicans block DADT repeal


Human Rights Campaign


Senate Republicans have blocked “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” repeal from receiving a vote!

But we are continuing to fight on all fronts, including the courts.

Just moments ago, Senate Republicans blocked the bill that contains the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” from even receiving an up-or-down vote. Not a single one broke ranks.

It’s an outrage. But this doesn’t mean the fight is over. Senate majority leader Harry Reid has committed to bringing the bill back up after the November elections – and we’ll have a fighting chance to get it passed then – so we’ll put everything we have into that effort.

In the meantime, we need to pursue every possible avenue to get rid of this law. And the Justice Department may be our best hope.

Here’s why: A federal district court recently ruled that “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” is unconstitutional. Now, the Justice Department has a choice: they can fight the decision, or they can let it stand and bring “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” one step closer to the dustbin of history.

Today’s move by Senate Republicans is an outrage. Not a single Republican senator was willing to even begin debate on this important legislation, which includes a pay raise for our service members.

But we’ve faced setbacks before, and this is not the end of the road. We’ll keep our efforts at full steam as we prepare for another showdown in the Senate after the election.

And if Attorney General Eric Holder agrees not to appeal the recent court decision, discharges under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” could become a relic of the past.

We need to make sure the Attorney General gets the message: he may very well be our best hope to bring about the repeal of this discriminatory law.

Then spread the word by email, Facebook, and Twitter.

Thanks for your help. Together, we can and we will end this law once and for all.

Sincerely,

Joe Solmonese
Joe Solmonese
President
~ Recent Post

A message from President Obama …


In the coming weeks, Americans will make a critical choice. Do we continue moving our country forward? Or do we bring back the very same ideas that devastated the middle class and resulted in the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression?

There is no doubt that Democrats can retain our Majority in the House of Representatives in the same way that we won in 2008 — by going block by block, house by house, voter by voter.

September 30th marks the final FEC quarterly fundraising deadline of this election, making this the most important deadline we have ever faced. Your support by Midnight on September 30th will decide how strong our voter contact team is, how far they can extend their reach, and how many Democratic voters they can get to the polls.

Contribute before the crucial Midnight September 30th FEC deadline to fund our get-out-the-vote effort and ensure that I keep my great Democratic Partners in the House. Your gift today will be matched by a group of generous Democrats.

Keep the House Blue

The challenges we face as a nation are too great to go back to the same old Republican ideas that got us into this mess in the first place. We simply cannot give the keys to the car back to the very same folks whose ideas led to the worst economy since the 1930s.

Since taking office, I have been fortunate to have extraordinary partners in the House like Speaker Nancy Pelosi and her Democratic colleagues who have fought to move our country in a New Direction. They have put our recovery on track, fought Republican attempts to privatize Social Security, and heroically taken on the powerful special interests. Now they need your help.

Contribute before the crucial Midnight September 30th FEC deadline to fund our get-out-the-vote effort and ensure that I keep my great Democratic Partners in the House. Your gift today will be matched by a group of generous Democrats.

When my own campaign for this office began, we weren’t given much of a chance by the pollsters or the pundits. You proved them wrong through your belief that 2008 had to be different. Now I need you to do it again for my great Democratic allies in the House.

We simply cannot afford to spend the next two years wishing we had done more in this final push to keep the House in Democratic hands.

This is our moment to retain a Democratic House so we can continue working to create millions of jobs, strengthen our middle class, and make this economy work for every American.

Thank you.

Barack Obama

P.S. Every dollar you give will help decide how strong our voter contact team is, how far they can extend their reach, and how many Democratic voters they can get to the polls. Contribute today and your gift will be matched by a group of generous Democrats.

Black History

Congress -the House & Senate …


The Senate Convenes: 9:30amET September 22, 2010

Following any Leader remarks, there will be a period of morning business until 4:00pm, with senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each. Following Leader remarks, the time until 10:00am will be equally divided and controlled between the two Leaders or their designees. The time from 10:00am to 4:00pm will be controlled in 30-minute alternating blocks of time.

Following morning business, the Senate will resume consideration of the motion to proceed to S.3454, the Department of Defense Authorization bill.

Unanimous Consent:
S.3828, a bill to make technical corrections in the 21st century communications and accessibility act of 2010 and the amendments made by that Act.

H.R.4667, the Veterans’ Compensation Cost of Living Adjustment Act of 2010

S.1448, a bill to amend the Act of August 9, 1955, to authorize the Coquille Indian Tribe, the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, the Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw, the Klamath Tribes, and the Burns Paiute Tribe to obtain 99-year lease authority for trust land.

S.2906, a bill to amend the Act of August 9, 1955, to modify a provision relating to leases involving certain Indian tribes.

H.R.3908, Redundancy Elimination and Enhanced Performance for Preparedness Grants Act

H.R.5682, a bill to improve the operation of certain facilities and programs of the House of Representatives, and for other purposes.

S.Res.623, A resolution commending the encouragement of interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics by the entertainment industry, and for other purposes.

S.Res.638, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Small Business Development Center Network

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The next meeting in the House is scheduled for 2:00pmET September 22, 2010

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF SEPTEMBER 22, 2010

.

6:55 P.M. –

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

6:54 P.M. –

Mr. Tiahrt requested the following general leaves to address the House on September 29: Mr. Poe of TX for 5 min and Mr. Jones for 5 min. Mr. Tiahrt requested the following general leaves to address the House on September 28: Mr. Poe of TX for 5 min and Mr. Jones for 5 min.

Mr. Tiahrt requested that Mr. Burton of IN be allowed to address the House for 5 minutes on September 24.

Mr. Tiahrt requested the following general leaves to address the House on September 23: Mr. Burton of IN for 5 min, Ms. Ros-Lehtinen for 5 min, Mr. Thompson of PA for 5 min, and Mr. Coffman of CO for 5 min.

6:44 P.M. –

ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches. Mr. Perlmutter filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 1640.

H.R. 3470:

to authorize funding for the creation and implementation of infant mortality pilot programs in standard metropolitan statistical areas with high rates of infant mortality, and for other purposes

6:43 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): 324 – 64 (Roll no. 533).

6:34 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 5131:

to establish Coltsville National Historical Park in the State of Connecticut, and for other purposes

6:33 P.M. –

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Failed by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 215 – 174 (Roll no. 532).

6:01 P.M. –

Considered as unfinished business.

6:00 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.

H.R. 5809:

to amend the Controlled Substances Act to provide for take-back disposal of controlled substances in certain instances, and for other purposes

5:58 P.M. –

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

5:48 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5809. Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H. Res. 1433:

expressing support for designation of September 2010 as Blood Cancer Awareness Month

5:47 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.

5:42 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1433. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Pallone moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended.

S. 2781:

to change references in Federal law to mental retardation to references to an intellectual disability, and to change references to a mentally retarded individual to references to an individual with an intellectual disability

5:41 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.

5:36 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 2781. Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H.R. 5710:

to amend and reauthorize the controlled substance monitoring program under section 399O of the Public Health Service Act

5:35 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.

5:24 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5710. Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H.R. 1745:

to amend the Public Health Service Act to provide liability protections for volunteer practitioners at health centers under section 330 of such Act

5:23 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.

5:13 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 1745. Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H.R. 2923:

to enhance the ability to combat methamphetamine

5:12 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.

5:06 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 2923. Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H.R. 5756:

to amend title I of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 to provide for grants and technical assistance to improve services rendered to children and adults with autism, and their families, and to expand the number of University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disablities Education, Research, and Service

5:05 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.

4:51 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5756. Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H.R. 3470:

to authorize funding for the creation and implementation of infant mortality pilot programs in standard metropolitan statistical areas with high rates of infant mortality, and for other purposes

4:50 P.M. –

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

4:40 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3470. Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H.R. 3199:

to amend the Public Health Service Act to provide grants to State emergency medical service departments to provide for the expedited training and licensing of veterans with prior medical training, and for other purposes

4:39 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.

4:22 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 3199. Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H.R. 6130:

to amend title XI of the Social Security Act to expand the permissive exclusion from participation in Federal health care programs to individuals and entities affiliated with sanctioned entities

4:21 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.

4:04 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 6130. Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H.R. 5131:

to establish Coltsville National Historical Park in the State of Connecticut, and for other purposes

4:03 P.M. –

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

3:42 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5131. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mrs. Christensen moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

H.R. 1454:

to provide for the issuance of a Multinational Species Conservation Funds Semipostal Stamp

3:41 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On motion that the House suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendment Agreed to by voice vote.

3:34 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 1454. Mrs. Christensen moved that the House suspend the rules and agree to the Senate amendment.

H. Res. 1508:

celebrating the 200th Anniversary of John James Audubon in Henderson, Kentucky

3:33 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

3:28 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1508. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mrs. Christensen moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H. Res. 1503:

expressing support for the goals and ideals of National Estuaries Day, and for other purposes

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

3:22 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1503. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mrs. Christensen moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H. Con. Res. 294:

commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the Blue Ridge Parkway

3:21 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by voice vote.

3:19 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Con. Res. 294. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mrs. Christensen moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H.R. 5194:

to designate Mt. Andrea Lawrence, and for other purposes

3:18 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.

3:16 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5194. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mrs. Christensen moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

H.R. 5152:

to adjust the boundary of the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park to include the Wallis House and Harriston Hill, and for other purposes

3:15 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.

3:13 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5152. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mrs. Christensen moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

H.R. 4195:

to authorize the Peace Corps Commemorative Foundation to establish a commemorative work in the District of Columbia and its environs, and for other purposes

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.

3:04 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 4195. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mrs. Christensen moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

H.R. 5494:

to direct the Director of the National Park Service and the Secretary of the Interior to transfer certain properties to the District of Columbia

3:03 P.M. –

The title of the measure was amended. Agreed to without objection. Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

3:02 P.M. –

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

3:00 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5494. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mrs. Christensen moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

H.R. 4823:

to establish the Sedona-Red Rock National Scenic Area in the Coconino National Forest, Arizona, and for other purposes

2:59 P.M. –

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

2:48 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 4823. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mrs. Christensen moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

H.R. 5110:

to modify the boundary of the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, and for other purposes

2:47 P.M. –

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

2:35 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5110. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mrs. Christensen moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

H.R. 5811:

to amend the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo and Alabama and Coushatta Indian Tribes of Texas Restoration Act to allow the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo Tribe to determine blood quantum requirement for membership in that tribe

2:34 P.M. –

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote.

2:31 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5811. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mrs. Christensen moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.

H.R. 4347:

to amend the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act to provide further self-governance by Indian tribes, and for other purposes

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

2:30 P.M. –

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

2:27 P.M. –

DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 4347. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mrs. Christensen moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

2:26 P.M. –

The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until 6:00 p.m. today.

2:24 P.M. –

Mrs. Christensen asked unanimous consent That, the Speaker be authorized to entertain motions to suspend the rules on the legislative day of Thursday, Sept. 23, 2010, relating to the following measures: S. 1674; H.R. 5307; H. Res. 1545; H. Res. 1560; H. Res. 1582; a bill to renew the authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services to approve demonstration projects designed to test innovative strategies in state child welfare programs; and a bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the funding and expenditure authority of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund, to amend title 49, United States Code, to extend the airport improvement program, and for other purposes. Agreed to without objection.

2:23 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 September 22, 2010, at 12:25p.m. stating that that body had passed S. 3814 and S. 3717

2:05 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. 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 September 21, 2010, at 2:40p.m. stating that that body had passed without amendment H.R. 4505 and S. 624.

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 September 16, 2010, at 4:39p.m. stating that that body had passed without amendment H.R. 6102.

2:03 P.M. –

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Wamp to lead the Members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. The Speaker announced approval of the Journal. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Journal stands approved.

2:01 P.M. –

Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Douglas Fisher, Grace Church, Millbrook, New York The Speaker designated the Honorable Henry Cuellar to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

2:00 P.M. –

The House convened, starting a new legislative day