Tag Archives: vote

~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

Oklahoma Is At It Again: State Legislature Passes Bill Stripping Abortion Coverage From Health Insurance

05/13/2010 Nativegrl77

by Amanda Terkel

As ThinkProgress has reported, many far-right members of the Oklahoma legislature have made denying women rights a full-time mission. What the legislature has done in recent weeks:

– Both the House and the Senate passed a law mandating the collection of personal details about every single abortion performed in the state, which will then be posted on a public website.

– The legislature overrode the governor’s veto of an ultrasound mandate, which requires that doctor’s show women seeking an abortion ultrasounds of their babies and “describe the size of the fetus and any viewable organs and limbs. There are no exceptions for rape or incest.” The law also “limits who can do the ultrasound and which technology can be used — issues lawmakers are ill-equipped to decide.”

– The legislature also overrode the governor’s veto of a measure to prevent women from filing “wrongful life” lawsuits against “doctors who withhold information about a fetus or pregnancy that could cause a woman to seek an abortion.”

Yesterday, the Oklahoma House was at it again, this time passing a bill (HB 3290) by a 70-21 vote to bar private insurance companies from covering abortion. From the legislation:

No health plan, including health insurance contracts, plans or policies, offered outside of the state Exchange, but within the state, shall provide coverage for elective abortions except by optional separate supplemental coverage for abortion for which there must be paid a separate premium in accordance with subsection D of this act.

The bill does provide “exceptions in cases of rape and incest or to prevent the death of the mother.” Rep. Skye McNiel (R), the author of the legislation, said that it was simply meant to “ban state insurance exchanges created under the recently signed federal health care legislation from covering abortion procedures.” However, several legislators — including a Republican Rep. Doug Cox, who is also a doctor — spoke out against what the House was doing:

“This bill is nothing but pure politics so people can go home and stand up and beat their chests and say, ‘I voted against abortion of any type,’” Cox said. “You’re going to be trampling on some people who are good Christian people who are against abortion, but when it comes to one of these sad, terribly sad, freaks of nature that happen, you’re going to be punishing those good Christian people who are against abortion except in these cases.”

As CAP’s Jessica Arons has pointed out, making women purchase a separate abortion “rider” — as this legislation does — is discriminatory and requires women “to plan for a completely unexpected event.” Similarly, Rep. Jeannie McDaniel (D), who also voted against the bill, read a letter from a doctor who said that it’s unfair to require women to purchase special abortion coverage in advance because “a medically necessary termination of pregnancy is something that no family plans for or anticipates.” According to Cox, paying for abortion without insurance could cost a woman $10,000.

Oklahoma joins other states such as Arizona, Mississippi, and Tennessee in prohibiting insurers from offering abortion coverage in state exchanges, even if it’s paid for with private dollars.

State Sen. Steve Russell (R) recently tried to justify the abortion-reporting bill by saying, “This is not about women. It is about children in the womb deserving a life that got created.” The fact that lawmakers like Russell are leaving women’s interests out of the equation underscores the problem of what’s going on in Oklahoma.

~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

Call on Congress to Reject Rate Hikes

05/13/2010 Nativegrl77

Today, Health Care for America Now released a report¹ on insurance company profits and the results are stunning. In the first quarter of 2010 the profits of the five biggest insurers increased at record levels while they covered less people and spent less on care. That’s why we need to give the federal and state governments more power to reject and modify rate hikes.

Health Care champions Senator Dianne Feinstein of California and Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-9) have introduced legislation² that will build upon the landmark health care law that was passed in March and give the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) the authority to end unjust premium increases.

Click here to call your Member of Congress and tell them you support this legislation that would make health care more affordable for businesses and families.

The Insurance Company’s recent behavior³ has shown they will do and say anything to keep their bloated CEO pay and inflated profits by denying our care and jacking up our rates. We need to give regulators the power and resources to check the insurance companies and stop business as usual.

Click here and call your Member of Congress and tell them you support giving regulators more authority to bring the insurance companies under control and stop outrageous rate increases.

In Solidarity,

Melinda Gibson
Health Care for America Now

Black History

Wednesday in Congress …

05/12/2010 Nativegrl77

The Senate will convene at 9:30am and will resume consideration of S.3217, Wall street Reform, the time until 10am equally divided and controlled between the Leaders or their designees.

At 10am, the Senate will proceed to vote in relation to the amendments listed below.

General Speeches, debates/votes on Financial Reform

The following amendments are pending to S.3217:
– Dodd-Lincoln amendment #3739 (Substitute)
– Collins amendment #3979 (leverage and risk-based capital)
– Brownback #3789, as modified (auto dealer exemption)
-Snowe #3883 (small business regulation transparency)
-Specter #3776, as modified (Aiders & Abettors)
-Leahy #3823 (health insurance antitrust enforcement)
-Durbin #3989 (interchange fee)
-Franken #3991 (credit rating)
-Sessions #3822 (bankruptcy)

Votes:
141: Merkley amendment #3962: (Underwriting);
Agreed To: 63-36

142: Corker amendment #3955: ;
Not Agreed To: 42-57

143: Hutchison-Klobuchar amendment #3759: , as modified
Agreed to: 90-9

Snowe amendment #3918: (Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection);
Agreed to by voice vote

145: Chambliss amendment #3816: (derivatives);
Not Agreed To: 39-59

146: Reed (RI) amendment #3943 (Military families)
Agreed To: 98-1

Unanimous Consent:
Accepted:
– Landrieu amendment #3956 (Credit Risk Retention Exemption)

– Crapo amendment #3992, as modified (credit risk requirements) to Landrieu amendment #3956

Adopted S.Res.522, a resolution recognizing National Nurses Week

Adopted S.Res.523, a resolution honoring the crew members who perished aboard the offshore oil rig, Deepwater Horizon, and extending the condolences of the Senate to the families and loved ones of the deceased crew members.

Confirmed the following Executive items:
PN1488, Stephen Ayers, Architect of the Capital

Cal #887, Parker Carl, US Marshal for Eastern District of KY

Cal #888, Gerald Holt, US Marshal for the Western District of WV

Cal #889, Robert Almonte, US Marshal for Western District of TX

Cal #890, Jerry Martin, US Attorney for the Middle District of TN

The next meeting in the House is scheduled 10amET on May 12, 2010

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF MAY 12, 2010
111TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION

Science/Technology programs and US-UK relations

8:01 P.M. –: SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.
8:00 P.M. –: Ms. Ros-Lehtinen requested the following general leaves to address the House on May 19: Mr. Poe of TX for 5 min, Mr. Jones for 5 min, and herself for 5 min. Ms. Ros-Lehtinen requested general leave to address the House for 5 minutes on May 18.
7:56 P.M. –: ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.
7:48 P.M. –: The Speaker laid before the House a message from the President transmitting the text of a proposed agreement between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Russian Federation for Cooperation in the Field of Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy – referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs .
7:47 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 transmitted to the House a sealed envelope received from the White House on Monday, May 10, 2010 at 2:47 p.m., and said to contain a message from the President whereby he submits a proposed Agreement Between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Russian Federation for Cooperation in the Field of Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy.
7:45 P.M. –: The Speaker laid before the House a message from the President transmitting a notice that the national emergency with respect to the stabilization of Iraq is to continue in effect beyond May 22, 2010 – referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs and ordered to be printed (H. Doc. 111-108).
7:43 P.M. –: President’s Export Council – the Speaker appointed the following members of the House to the President’s Export Council: Mr. Reichert and Mr. Tiberi . Pursuant to clause 8, rule XX, the Speaker postponed until a time to be announced, the roll call votes on the motions to suspend the rules and agree to H. Res. 1337 and H. Res. 1338, which were ordered on Wednesday, May 12, 2010.

H. Res. 1155:

commending the progress made by anti-tuberculosis programs
7:42 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.
7:34 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1155. Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H. Res. 1143:

commending the Community of Democracies for its achievements since it was founded in 2000
7:33 P.M. –: Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
7:16 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1143. Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H. Res. 1303:

recognizing the close friendship and historical ties between the United Kingdom and the United States
7:15 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 agree to the resolution, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
7:03 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1303. Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

S. 1067:

to support stabilization and lasting peace in northern Uganda and areas affected by the Lord’s Resistance Army through development of a regional strategy to support multilateral efforts to successfully protect civilians and eliminate the threat posed by the Lord’s Resistance Army and to authorize funds for humanitarian relief and reconstruction, reconciliation, and transitional justice, and for other purposes
7:02 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.
6:34 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 1067. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Engel moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.
6:33 P.M. –: The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until a time to be announced.

H.R. 5116:

to invest in innovation through research and development, to improve the competitiveness of the United States, and for other purposes
6:31 P.M. –: Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union rises leaving H.R. 5116 as unfinished business. On motion that the committee rise Agreed to by voice vote.

Mr. Gordon (TN) moved that the committee rise.
6:30 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Reyes amendment Agreed to by recorded vote: 413 – 10 (Roll no. 266).
6:23 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Miller, George amendment Agreed to by recorded vote: 250 – 174 (Roll no. 265).
6:16 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Markey (MA) amendment Agreed to by recorded vote: 254 – 173 (Roll no. 264).
6:04 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Hall (TX) amendment Failed by recorded vote: 163 – 258 (Roll no. 263).
5:56 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Gordon (TN) amendment Agreed to by recorded vote: 417 – 6 (Roll no. 262).
5:25 P.M. –: UNFINISHED BUSINESS – The Chair announced that the unfinished business was the question of adoption of amendmentments which had been debated earlier and on which further proceedings were postponed.
5:24 P.M. –: POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Boccieri amendment number 34, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Hall (TX) demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.
5:16 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1344, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Boccieri amendment number 34. Amendment offered by Mr. Boccieri.

An amendment numbered 34 printed in Part B of House Report 111-479 to increase the authorization level for funding for Federal Loan Guarantees for Innovative Technologies in Manufacturing from $50 million to $100 million.

On agreeing to the Gingrey (GA) amendment Agreed to by voice vote.
5:10 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1344, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Gingrey (GA) amendment number 21. Amendment offered by Mr. Gingrey (GA).

An amendment numbered 21 printed in Part B of House Report 111-479 to direct the National Science Foundation to establish the Green Chemistry Basic Research and Development program and provide merit-based grants to support green chemistry applications. Green chemistry is chemistry that involves the design of chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the use or generation of hazardous substances, and it focuses on preventing pollution and waste from forming in the first place.
5:09 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Gordon (TN) amendments Agreed to by voice vote.
4:57 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1344, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Gordon (TN) amendments en bloc. Amendments offered by Mr. Gordon (TN).

An amendment offered en bloc consisting of amendments numbered 14, 15, 16, 17, 22, 35, 42, 43, 49, 23, 24, 46, 78, and 9 printed in Part B of House Report 111-479.
4:56 P.M. –: POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Reyes amendment number 13, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Reyes demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.
4:50 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1344, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Reyes amendment number 13. Amendment offered by Mr. Reyes.

An amendment numbered 13 printed in Part B of House Report 111-479 to require the STEM coordinating committee under OSTP to describe the approaches that will be taken by each agency to conduct outreach designed to promote widespread public understanding of career opportunities in the STEM fields. It also requires the establishment and maintenance of a publicly accessible online database of all federally sponsored STEM education programs.
4:49 P.M. –: POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the George Miller amendment number 12, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Hall (TX) demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.
4:41 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1344, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the George Miller amendment number 12. Amendment offered by Mr. Miller, George.

An amendment numbered 12 printed in Part B of House Report 111-479 to require public institutions of higher education, with respect to employees who are represented by labor organizations and who work on activities or programs supported by this Act, to maintain a policy to respond to union information requests, for information to which the union is legally entitled, on a timely basis in order to be eligible to receive facilities and administrative costs provided by any of the funding sources authorized by this Act. Failure to comply with such a policy would result in suspension of payments to the institution for facilities and administrative costs until compliance is achieved.
4:39 P.M. –: POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Markey (MA) amendment number 6, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Hall (TX) demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day
4:27 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1344, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Markey (MA) amendment number 10. Amendment offered by Mr. Markey (MA).

An amendment numbered 10 printed in Part B of House Report 111-479 to establish a program to support the development and commercial application of cleamount not more than $10,000,000 per year and is for a period not to exceed 3 years.he Secretary of Energy. The Consortium would be regionally based and include research universities, national labs, industry, and other state and nongovernmental organizations with research or technology transfer expertise in clean energy technology. The Consortium would have a technology focus to which at least 50 percent of support would be directed. The grant to establish and operate the Consortium is for an amount not more than $10,000,000 per year and is for a period not to exceed 3 years.
4:26 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Gordon (TN) amendment Agreed to by voice vote.
4:22 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1344, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Gordon (TN) amendment number 8. Amendment offered by Mr. Gordon (TN).
4:21 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Gordon (TN) amendment Agreed to by voice vote.
4:17 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1344, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Gordon (TN) amendment number 7. Amendment offered by Mr. Gordon (TN).

An amendment numbered 7 printed in Part B of House Report 111-479 to ensure that biomass technology systems and related courses are included in the list of fields that would be encompassed by the energy systems science and engineering education programs.
4:16 P.M. –: POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Hall (TX) amendment number 6, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Hall (TX) demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.
4:13 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1344, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Hall (TX) amendment number 6. Amendment offered by Mr. Hall (TX).

An amendment numbered 6 printed in Part B of House Report 111-479 to strike title V of the bill (Innovation).
4:12 P.M. –: On agreeing to the Gordon (TN) amendments Agreed to by voice vote.
4:11 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 1344, the Committee of the Whole proceeded with 10 minutes of debate on the Gordon amendments en bloc number 1.
4:10 P.M. –: Amendments offered by Mr. Gordon (TN).

An amendment offered en bloc consisting of amendments numbered 3, 4, 5, 11, 18, 19, 20, 25, 27, 39,and 47 printed in part B of House Report 111-479.

POSTPONED PROCEEDINGS – At the conclusion of debate on the Gordon (TN) amendment, the Chair put the question on adoption of the amendment and by voice vote, announced that the ayes had prevailed. Mr. Gordon (TN) demanded a recorded vote and the Chair postponed further proceedings on the question of adoption of the amendment until later in the legislative day.
3:53 P.M. –: DEBATE – Pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 1344, the Committee of the Whole House proceeded with 40 minutes of debate on the Gordon amendment number 1. Amendment offered by Mr. Gordon (TN).

An amendment numbered 1 printed in Part B of House Report 111-479 to make technical and clarifying changes to the bill. Would also amend Section 243 (“Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program”) and Section 702 (“Persons with Disabilities), and add new Sections 412 (“Report On the Use of Modeling and Simulation”) and Section 704 (“Budgetary Effects”), Section 705 (“Limitation”), and Section 706 (“Prohibition on Lobbying”), among other changes.
2:49 P.M. –: GENERAL DEBATE – The Committee of the Whole proceeded with one hour of general debate on H.R. 5116. The Speaker designated the Honorable Eleanor Holmes Norton to act as Chairwoman of the Committee.

House resolved itself into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union pursuant to H. Res. 1344 and Rule XVIII.

Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 5116 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. All points of order against consideration of the bill are waived except those arising under clause 9 or 10 of rule XXI. It shall be in order to consider as an original bill for the purpose of amendment under the five-minute rule the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Science and Technology now printed in the bill modified by the amendment printed in part A of the report of the Committee on Rules accompanying this resolution.

Considered under the provisions of rule H. Res. 1344.

H. Con. Res. 268:

supporting the goals and ideals of National Women’s Health Week, and for other purposes
2:47 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 the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 418 – 0 (Roll no. 261).
2:41 P.M. –: Considered as unfinished business.

H.R. 5014:

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

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 417 – 0 (Roll no. 260). Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
2:32 P.M. –: Considered as unfinished business.
2:31 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. Res. 1344:

providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 5116) to invest in innovation through research and development, to improve the competitiveness of the United States, 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: 243 – 177 (Roll no. 259).
2:03 P.M. –: The previous question was ordered without objection.
12:48 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H. Res. 1344 Considered as privileged matter.

H. Res. 1333:

expressing support for the goals and ideals of Children’s Book Week
12:47 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.
12:42 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1333. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Ms. Woolsey moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H.R. 959:

to increase Federal Pell Grants for the children of fallen public safety officers, and for other purposes
12:41 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.
12:30 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 959. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Ms. Woolsey moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.

H. Res. 1261:

recognizing National Nurses Week
12:29 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.
12:16 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1261. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Ms. Woolsey moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, as amended.

H. Res. 1338:

recognizing the significant accomplishments of AmeriCorps and encouraging all citizens to join in a national effort to raise awareness about the importance of national and community service
12:14 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.
12:02 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1338. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Ms. Titus moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

S. Con. Res. 61:

expressing the sense of the Congress that general aviation pilots and industry should be recognized for the contributions made in response to Haiti earthquake relief efforts
12:01 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.
11:55 A.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. Con. Res. 61. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Cohen moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H. Res. 1284:

supporting the goals and ideals of National Learn to Fly Day, and for other purposes
11:54 A.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 agree to the resolution, as amended Agreed to by voice vote.
11:39 A.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1284. Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H. Res. 1337:

expressing the sympathy and condolences of the House of Representatives to those people affected by the flooding in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Mississippi in May, 2010

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.
11:19 A.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1337. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Cohen moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H.R. 5014:

to clarify the health care provided by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs that constitutes minimum essential coverage
11:18 A.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.
10:47 A.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5014. Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

S. 3333:

to extend the statutory license for secondary transmissions under title 17, United States Code, and for other purposes
10:46 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.
10:33 A.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. 3333. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Conyers moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill.
10:32 A.M. –: The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until a time to be announced.
10:03 A.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.
10:02 A.M. –: PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Poe of TX 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.
10:01 A.M. –: Today’s prayer was offered by Reverend Dr. Timothy Goble, Grace Evangelical Free Church The Speaker designated the Honorable Jose E. Serrano to act as Speaker pro tempore for today.

~ my 2cents ..., ~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

wacky Wednesday and some News …

05/12/2010 Nativegrl77

I will go on a limb and state that the WSJ picture being discussed with Kagan up to bat is suggestive …maybe a switch hitter? putting the question out there … just so everyone wonders feeding the rumor which feeds more questions … the intent is clear, the question is will people get pulled in; maybe i’m naïve but who really cares what people do in their private life as long as the candidate is qualified for the job, truthful about who you are and not hurting anyone or themselves.

It’s wacky Wednesday and some News …and what is more wacky than the news that Arizona Gov has signed a bill that will impact ethnic studies classes everywhere … what is going on in Arizona ? The measure signed Tuesday prohibits classes that advocate ethnic solidarity, designed primarily for students of a particular race or that promote resentment toward a certain ethnic group. Other wacky news …The SEC and the news about how it functioned while we needed them to do their jobs is kinda wacky … isn’t this a no brainer … put in good financial regulations, a protocol for all, enforce the rules regulations and policies when evidence comes in … say maybe a whistle-blower … uh investigate it …and possible enforce the law…but hey now days that seems like a novel idea…even wacky; pretty sure there are more stories to come … like watching/listening to in my opinion were the three stooges point the finger at the other instead of taking a group responsibility for the oil dump which has yet to be completely stopped.

The issues on the Congressional table continue to bring conflict. Today S3217 and Climate Change will get some attention as Senators Kerry/Lieberman face it head on. At this time Immigration Reform seems to be on hold and apparently some issues bring back Health-Care as insurers and the chamber of commerce have posed issues and challenges to parents having their grown children covered until 26; believe me, it will be obvious when you find out and or compare what it would be if your male child had to get insurance on his own vs a female and then add any or all health issues … the new deal is great for We the People. Apparently, health care is definitely back in the news as Senator Anthony Weiner wants to do a meet up Click here to let me know what you think on Facebook. join in and make sure we all move into the 21st Century.

Other news …

**Los Angeles votes to boycott Arizona until it repeals it’s new law promoting legal racial profiling

**The House of Reps Voted and passed coverage Vet Benefits bill 417-0 /14 not voting and support for Women’s health care week passed as well

** 1090am/ Thom hartmann give Bay Buchanan the what for about Kagan and her qualifications comments

** A flash mob “infiltrates” the Westin St. Francis hotel in San Francisco, CA, performing an adaptation of Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance” to show support for “a boycott called by the workers of the hotel who are fighting to win a fair contract and affordable healthcare.” Watch it here.TP

**what could be more wacky then the AZ gov signing a bill targeting ethnic studies

**correction to the Kagan vs the Military; the rules,policies and regulations were in place before Kagan was hired

**The Republican National Committee (RNC) announced that it will hold its 2012 convention in Tampa, FL, citing the fact that it has been “a key targeted state in the past several elections, and it’ll continue to be in future elections.” One of the finalists the RNC notably passed over was Phoenix, AZ, which some conservatives were hoping the GOP would choose to show support for the state’s news anti-immigration law.TP

C-SPAN …

Meeting with Sen. Reid Meeting with Sen. McConnell 5/12

White House Press Briefing

Childhood Obesity Task Force Event

Senate Hearing on Immigration

Spkr. Pelosi Briefing on Middle East Delegation

Panel 1 Panel 2 Senate Energy Cmte/oil drilling

Sen. Kerry: “We want to make this the Senate where we finish the job.”

Sens. John Kerry (D-MA) and Joe Lieberman (I-CT) released their climate and clean-energy legislation today. Sen. Kerry said the bill is essential for the United States to remain globally competitive and in control of its energy situation. “If we want to claim our share, we need to lead,” he said. The bill is expected to include provisions that create clean-energy jobs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and shift away from imported oil following the Gulf of Mexico oil spill.

Kerry Lieberman Bill

Afghan President in Washington to Discuss War Effort

Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai will meet with Pres. Obama to deliberate on matters of the war effort in Afghanistan. Both are expected to discuss ways to resolve disputes over corruption and a possible timeline for withdrawing American forces. Yesterday, Sec. of State Hillary Clinton met with Pres. Karzai for closed-door talks.

Joint News Conference: c-span.org, 11:15am ET

REUTERS: U.S. Courts Karzai

AP: Clinton Reassures Afghans

Lawmakers Investigate Oil Spill Prevention Measures

Appearing for a second day on Capitol Hill, BP America Inc. Pres. Lamar McKay and Transocean Ltd. Pres. Steve Newman give their accounts on what caused the explosion on the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig in the Gulf of Mexico. Chairman Bart Stupack (D-MI) holds this House Oversight Subcmte. hearing to discuss how to prevent future incidents and the direction of U.S. national energy policy.

House Hearing: c-span.org at 10am ET

Senate Energy and Environment Hearing (5/11)

Politico: Oil Execs Dodge Blame

~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

Tuesday in Congress …

05/11/2010 Nativegrl77

The Senate will convene at May 11, 2010 10:00am and resume consideration of the Restoring American Financial Stability Act of 2010 (S.3217)

The following amendments are pending to S.3217:
Dodd-Lincoln amendment #3739
Corker amendment #3955 (underwriting)
Merkley-Klobuchar amendment #3962 (underwriting)–side-by-side to Corker amendment

Votes:
137: Sanders amendment #3738: , as modified;
Agreed to: 96-0

138: Vitter amendment #3760: ;
Not Agreed to: 37-62

139: Dodd amendment #3938: (GSE study);
Agreed To: 63-36

140: McCain amendment #3839: (GSEs);
Not Agreed To: 43-56

Confirmation of Timothy Black, of Ohio, to be US District Judge for the Southern District of Ohio;
Confirmed by voice vote

Confirmation of Jon E. DeGuilo, of Indiana, to be US District Judge for the Northern District of Indiana;
Confirmed by voice vote

Bennet (CO) amendment was agreed to by voice vote.

Unanimous Consent:
Adopted S.Res.511, a resolution commemorating and acknowledging the dedication and sacrifices made by the Federal, State, and local law enforcement officers who have been killed or injured in the line of duty.

CURRENT HOUSE FLOOR PROCEEDINGS
LEGISLATIVE DAY OF MAY 11, 2010
111TH CONGRESS – SECOND SESSION

9:08 P.M. –: On motion to adjourn Agreed to by voice vote. The House adjourned. The next meeting is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on May 12, 2010.

Mr. Carter moved that the House do now adjourn.
7:29 P.M. –: SPECIAL ORDER SPEECHES – The House has concluded all anticipated legislative business and has proceeded to Special Order speeches.
7:28 P.M. –: Mr. Poe of TX requested the following general leaves to address the House on May 18: Mr. Jones for 5 min. Mr. Poe of TX requested that Ms. Ros-Lehtinen be allowed to address the House for 5 minutes on May 12.
7:23 P.M. –: ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with further one minute speeches.
7:20 P.M. –: The Speaker laid before the House a message from the President transmitting a notification of the 2010 National Drug Control Strategy. – referred to the Committees on Armed Services, Education and Labor, Energy and Commerce, Foreign Affairs, Homeland Security, the Judiciary, Natural Resources, Oversight and Government Reform, Small Business, Transportation and Infrastructure, Veterans’ Affairs, and Ways and Means, and ordered to be printed(H. Doc. 111-107).
7:19 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 sealed envelope from the White House on Monday, May 11, 2010 at 5:09 p.m., and said to contain a message from the President whereby he submitted the 2010 National Drug Control Strategy.
7:18 P.M. –: Mr. Grijalva filed a report from the Committee on Natural Resources on H. Res. 1254.
7:17 P.M. –: Mr. Arcuri filed a report from the Committee on Rules on H. Res. 1344.

H. Res. 1299:

supporting the goals and ideals of Peace Officers Memorial Day

On motion to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 395 – 0 (Roll no. 258). Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
7:10 P.M. –: Considered as unfinished business.

H. Res. 1328:

honoring the life and legacy of William Earnest “Ernie” Harwell
7:04 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 the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 394 – 0 (Roll no. 257).
6:56 P.M. –: Considered as unfinished business.

H. Res. 1294:

expressing support for designation of the first Saturday in May as National Explosive Ordnance Disposal Day to honor those who are serving and have served in the noble and self-sacrificing profession of Explosive Ordnance Disposal in the United States Armed Forces

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 the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 388 – 0 (Roll no. 256).
6:31 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.
6:30 P.M. –: Pursuant to clause 8, rule XX, the Speaker postponed, until a time to be announced, the roll call vote on the motion to suspend the rules and agree to H. Con. Res. 268, which was ordered on Tuesday, May 11, 2010. The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of May 11.
3:22 P.M. –: The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. today. The next meeting is scheduled for 6:30 P.M. today.

S. Con. Res. 62:

congratulating the outstanding professional public servants, both past and present, of the Natural Resources Conservation Service on the occasion of its 75th anniversary

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.
3:16 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on S. Con. Res. 62. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Holden moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H. Res. 1094:

commemorating the life of the late Cynthia DeLores Tucker
3:15 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.
3:08 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1094. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Deutch moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H. Res. 1299:

supporting the goals and ideals of Peace Officers Memorial Day

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.
2:59 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1299. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Deutch moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H. Res. 1187:

expressing the sense of the House of Representatives with respect to raising public awareness of and helping to prevent attacks against Federal employees while engaged in or on account of the performance of official duties
2:58 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.
2:49 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1187. Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

H. Res. 1328:

honoring the life and legacy of William Earnest “Ernie” Harwell
2:48 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.
2:38 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1328. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Towns moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H. Con. Res. 268:

supporting the goals and ideals of National Women’s Health Week, and for other purposes

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.
2:33 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Con. Res. 268. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Towns moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H. Res. 1294:

expressing support for designation of the first Saturday in May as National Explosive Ordnance Disposal Day to honor those who are serving and have served in the noble and self-sacrificing profession of Explosive Ordnance Disposal in the United States Armed Forces
2:32 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.
2:24 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H. Res. 1294. Considered under suspension of the rules.

Mr. Towns moved to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution.

H.R. 5051:

to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 23 Genesee Street in Hornell, New York, as the “Zachary Smith Post Office Building”
2:23 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.
2:15 P.M. –: DEBATE – The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 5051. Considered under suspension of the rules.

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

The Speaker announced that votes on suspensions, if ordered, will be postponed until 6:30 p.m. today.
2:04 P.M. –: ONE MINUTE SPEECHES – The House proceeded with one minute speeches.
2:03 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 the following message from the Secretary of the Senate on May 7, 2010 at 3:04 p.m.: That the Senate passed S. 3333, agreed to H. Con. Res. 247 and H. Con. Res. 263, without amendment, and passed H.R. 3619, with an amendment.
2:02 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 the following message from the Secretary of the Senate on May 7, 2010 at 11:06 a.m.: That the Senate passed S. 1053, S. 1405, H.R. 5160, H.R. 689, H.R. 1121, H.R. 1442, and H.R. 2802.
2:01 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 had recieved the following message from the Secretary of the Senate on May 11, 2010 at 2010 at 10:05 a.m.: an appointment to the Board of Trustees of the American Folklife Center of the Library of Congress. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – The Chair designated Mr. Poe of TX 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.
2:00 P.M. –: Today’s prayer was offered by the House Chaplain, Rev. Daniel Coughlin. The House convened, returning from a recess continuing the legislative day of May 11.
12:50 P.M. –: The Speaker announced that the House do now recess. The next meeting is scheduled for 2:00 P.M. today.
12:31 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.