104th Congress (1995 - 1996)

January 3 - October 21, 1996

House Committee Meetings by Date
Compiled from the Congressional Record's Daily Digests via Thomas at thomas.loc.gov

1996/01/03
Daily Digest - Wednesday, January 3, 1996;  pages D1 - D4

Committee Meetings

No Committee meetings were held. 



1996/01/04
Daily Digest - Thursday, January 4, 1996;  pages D6 - D8

Committee Meetings

ENERGY DEPARTMENT TRAVEL EXPENDITURES

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held a
hearing on the Department of Energy: Travel Expenditures and Related Issues.
Testimony was heard from Victor Rezendes, Director, Energy Issues, GAO. 

HAITI

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on Haiti: Human Rights
and Police Issues. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of State: Robert S. Gelbard, Assistant Secretary, International
Narcotics and Legal Affairs; and James Dobbins, Special Coordinator for Haiti;
and the following officials of the Department of Justice: Bill Perry, Deputy
Assistant Director, Criminal Investigative Division, FBI; and Seth Waxman,
Associate Deputy Attorney General. 

MFN STATUS FOR BULGARIA

Committee on Rules: Granted a rule providing that it will be in order to take
from the Speaker's table H.R. 1643, to authorize the extension of
nondiscriminatory treatment (most-favored-nation treatment) to the products of
Bulgaria, with the Senate amendment, and consider in the House the motion
printed in the Rules Committee report accompanying the rule. The rule provides
that the Senate amendment and the motion shall be considered as read. The rule
waives all points of order against the motion. The rule provides one hour of
general debate on the motion, equally divided between the chairman and ranking
minority member of the Committee on Appropriations. The rule provides that the
previous question is considered as ordered on the motion to final adoption
without intervening motion or demand for a division of the question. Testimony
was heard from Representative Jackson-Lee. 



1996/01/05
Daily Digest - Friday, January 5, 1996;  pages D10 - D14

Committee Meetings

PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION OF CONTINUING RESOLUTION

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a rule providing for the adoption
of an amendment printed in the report of the Committee on Rules to the Senate
amendment. The rule provides for the adoption of a concurrent resolution
making submission of the joint resolution to the President contingent on
submission by the President to the Congress of a Congressional Budget Office
certified, seven-year balanced budget. Finally, the rule provides that the
Clerk shall not transmit the joint resolution to the Senate until it has
agreed to the concurrent resolution to the House as adopted. 

TARGETED APPROPRIATIONS/FISHERIES LABORATORY TRANSFER

Committee on Rules: Granted a rule providing for the concurrence in the Senate
amendment, with an amendment printed the report of the Committee on Rules, to
H.R. 1358, to require the Secretary of Commerce to convey to the Commonwealth
of Massachusetts the National Marine Fisheries Service laboratory located on
Emerson Avenue in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Testimony was heard from Chairman
Livingston and Representatives Obey and Browder. 



1996/01/08
Daily Digest - Monday, January 8, 1996;  pages D15 - D16

Committee Meetings

No committee meetings were held. 



1996/01/09
Daily Digest - Tuesday, January 9, 1996;  pages D17 - D18

Committee Meetings

No committee meetings were held. 



1996/01/10
Daily Digest - Wednesday, January 10, 1996;  pages D19 - D20

Committee Meetings

No committee meetings were held. 



1996/01/22
Daily Digest - Monday, January 22, 1996;  pages D22 - D26

Committee Meetings

WHITE HOUSE TRAVEL OFFICE

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: On January 17, the Committee
began hearings on the White House Travel Office. Testimony was heard from
David Watkins, former Assistant to the President and Director, Office of
Management and Administration, The White House. 

Hearings continue January 24. 

UNFUNDED MANDATES IN MEDICAID

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: On January 18, the Subcommittee
on Human Resources and Intergovernmental Relations held a hearing on Unfunded
Mandates in Medicaid. Testimony was heard from Bruce C. Vladeck, M.D.,
Administrator, Health Care Financing Administration, Department of Health and
Human Services; William J. Scanlon, Associate Director, Health Financing
Issues, GAO; Philip Dearborn, Director, Government Finance Research, Advisory
Commission on Intergovernmental Relations; John Petraborg, Deputy
Commissioner, Department of Human Services, State of Minnesota; David
Parrella, Medicaid Director, Department of Social Services, State of
Connecticut; and public witnesses.  



1996/01/23
Daily Digest - Tuesday, January 23, 1996;  pages D28 - D30

Committee Meetings

CONFERENCE REPORT--DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a rule waiving all points of order
against the conference report to accompany S. 1124, Department of Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996, and against its consideration. The
rule provides that the conference report shall be considered as read.
Testimony was heard from Chairman Spence. 



1996/01/24
Daily Digest - Wednesday, January 24, 1996;  pages D31 - D34

Committee Meetings

TRAVEL AND TOURISM PARTNERSHIP ACT

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Hazardous
Materials and the Subcommittee on International Economic Policy and Trade of
the Committee on International Relations held a joint hearing on H.R. 2579,
Travel and Tourism Partnership Act of 1995. Testimony was heard from Greg
Farmer, Under Secretary, Department of Commerce; Judd Buchanan, Chairman,
Tourism Commission, Canada; and public witnesses. 

WHITE HOUSE TRAVEL OFFICE

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Continued hearings on the White
House Travel Office. Testimony was heard from the following former officials
of the White House Travel Office; Billy R. Dale, Director; Gary D. Wright,
Assistant Director; Barnaby L. Brasseux, Assistant to the Director; John P.
Dreylinger, Assistant to the Director; Robert T. Maughan, Communications
Officer; John P. McSweeney, Assistant to the Director; and Robert S. Van
Eimeren, Assistant to the Director. 

LANDMINE THREAT IN BOSNIA

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Research and Development and
the Subcommittee on Military Procurement held a joint hearing on the research
and development response to the landmine threat in Bosnia. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Defense: Capt. Joseph
Mazzafro, USN, Joint Staff (J-2); Maj. Gen. Clair F. Gill, USA, Commanding
General, U.S. Army Engineer Central/School and Fort Leonard Wood; Thomas
Reeder, Intelligence Analyst, National Ground Intelligence Center; Col. Dennis
Barlow, USA, Director, Policy and Plans, Humanitarian and Refugee Affairs,
Office of the Assistant Secretary, Special Operations/Low Intensity Conflict;
John M. Bachkosky, Deputy Under Secretary, Advanced Technology; George T.
Singley, III, Deputy Director, Defense Research and Engineering; A. Fenner
Milton, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Science and Technology, Department of the
Army; Brig. Gen. Roy E. Beauchamp, USA, Deputy Chief of Staff, Research and
Development and Engineering, U.S. Army Materiel Command; John Reingruber,
Assistant for Science and Technology, Office of the Assistant Secretary,
Special Operations/Low Intensity Conflict; and Claude Manley, Deputy Director,
Navy Joint Explosives Ordnance Technology Division, U.S. Navy Surface Warfare
Center, Indian Head Division; and a public witness. 

PROVIDING EXPEDITED PROCEDURES

Committee on Rules: Ordered reported, by voice vote, a resolution waiving
clause 4(b) of rule XI (requiring a \2/3\ vote to consider a rule on the same
day it is reported by the Committee on Rules) against certain resolutions
reported by the Rules Committee before March 16, 1996. The waiver applies to
special rules providing for consideration or disposition of any measures,
amendments, thereto, conference reports thereon, or amendments reported in
disagreement from a conference that: (1) make general appropriations for the
fiscal year 1996; (2) include provisions making further continuing
appropriations for fiscal D33year 1996; or (3) include provisions increasing
or waiving the public debt limit. 

                                           [Page: D33]

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
appoint members to investigative subcommittees concerning the Preliminary
Inquiry voted on Representative Barbara-Rose Collins and the Preliminary
Inquiry voted on Representative Newt Gingrich. 



1996/01/25
Daily Digest - Thursday, January 25, 1996;  pages D35 - D38

Committee Meetings

CLEAN AIR ACT--MONTREAL PROTOCOL IMPACT

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Health and Environment held a hearing
on the Implementation and Enforcement of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990,
focusing on Title VI and the Impact of the Seventh Meeting of the Parties to
the Montreal Protocol. Testimony was heard from Rafe Pomerance, Deputy
Assistant Secretary, Environment and Development, Department of State; Larry
Elworth, Special Assistant Pesticide Policy Natural Resources and Environment,
USDA; and Mary D. Nichols, Assistant Administrator, Air and Radiation, EPA. 

INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZED CRIME

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime held a hearing on the
Growing Threat of International Organized Crime. Testimony was heard from Jim
E. Moody, Deputy Assistant Director, Criminal Investigative Division, FBI,
Department of Justice; and public witnesses. 

NATIONAL OCEANOGRAPHIC CAPABILITIES

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Research and
Development, the Subcommittee on Energy and Environment of the Committee on
Science and the Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans of the
Committee on Resources held a joint hearing on leveraging national
oceanographic capabilities. Testimony was heard from Neal F. Lane, Director,
NSF; James Baker, Administrator, NOAA, Department of Commerce; Adm. Jeremy M.
Boorda, USN, Chief of Naval Operations, Department of the Navy; RAdm. Paul G.
Gaffney, II, USN, Commander, Naval Meteorological and Oceanographic Command,
Stennis Space Center, NASA; Bruce Alberts, President, National Academy of
Sciences; and public witnesses. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 



1996/01/26
Daily Digest - Friday, January 26, 1996;  pages D39 - D44

Committee Meetings

No Committee meetings were held. 



1996/01/30
Daily Digest - Tuesday, January 30, 1996;  pages D46 - D48

Committee Meetings

AGRICULTURE MARKET TRANSITION ACT

Committee on Agriculture: Ordered reported H.R. 2854, Agriculture Market
Transition Act. 



1996/10/31
Daily Digest - Wednesday, January 31, 1996;  pages D49 - D52

Committee Meetings 

SAFE DRINKING WATER ACT REAUTHORIZATION 

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Health and Environment held a hearing
on Priorities for Reauthorization of the Safe Drinking Water Act. Testimony
was heard from Representatives Solomon and Kleczka; Robert Perciasepe,
Assistant Administrator, Office of Water, EPA; and public witnesses. 

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Held a hearing on "What
Works in Public Schools". Testimony was heard from Frank Brogan, Commissioner
of Education, State of Florida; William Randall, Commissioner of Education,
State of Colorado; and public witnesses. 

                                           [Page: D51]

GLOBAL ORGANIZED CRIME 

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on Global Organized
Crime. Testimony was heard from Jim E. Moody, Deputy Assistant Director,
Criminal Investigative Division, FBI, Department of Justice; David Kerry,
Director, Crime and Narcotics Center, CIA; and public witnesses. 

FBI MURDER INVESTIGATIONS IN HAITI

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime held an oversight hearing
regarding the FBI murder investigation in Haiti. Testimony has heard from the
following officials of the Department of Justice: Seth Waxman, Associate
Deputy Attorney General; and William Perry, Deputy Assistant Director, FBI;
the following officials of the Department of State: Ambassador Robert Gelbard,
Assistant Secretary, International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs; and
Ambassador James Dobbins, Special Coordinator, Haiti; and a pubic witness. 

CONFERENCE REPORT--DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a rule waiving all points or order
against the conference report to accompany H.R. 2546, making appropriations
for the government of the District of Columbia and other activities chargeable
in whole or in part against the revenues of said District for the fiscal year
ending September 30, 1996, and against its consideration. The rule provides
that the conference report shall be considered as read. Testimony was heard
from Representatives Walsh and Dixon. 

TELECOMMUNICATIONS ACT OF 1996

Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, a rule waiving all points of
order against the conference report to accompany S. 652, the
Telecommunications Act of 1996 and against its consideration. The rule
provides that the conference report shall be considered as read. 

RECESS AUTHORITY

Committee on Rules: Ordered reported, by voice vote, a resolution authorizing
the Speaker to declare recesses, subject to the call of the chair, of not more
than three days intervals, at a time (excluding Sundays), from calendar days
Friday, February 2, 1996, through Monday, February 26, 1996. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 

WATER SUPPLY INFRASTRUCTURE ASSISTANCE ACT

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Water
Resources and Environment held a hearing on H.R. 2747, Water Supply
Infrastructure Assistance Act of 1995. Testimony was heard from Robert
Perciasepe, Assistant Administrator, Office of Water, EPA; Michael C.
Finnegan, Counsel, Governor, State of New York; Tommy Kilby, County Executive,
Morgan County, State of Tennessee; and public witnesses. 



1996/02/01
Daily Digest - Thursday, February 1, 1996;  pages D54 - D60

Committee Meetings

PUBLIC UTILITY REGULATORY POLICIES ACT--INCREASINGLY COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY
MARKETS


Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Power held an oversight
hearing on the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act and its Role in
Increasingly Competitive Electricity Markets. Testimony was heard from
Representative Stearns; the following officials of the Department of Energy:
Charles Curtis, Deputy Secretary; and Elizabeth Moler, Chair, Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission; and public witnesses. 

BOSNIA--PEACE WITH JUSTICE

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on Prospects for Peace
with Justice in Bosnia. Testimony was heard from John Shattuck, Assistant
Secretary, Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, Department of State. 

SOCIAL SECURITY GUARANTEE ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a closed rule providing for the
consideration in the House of H.R. 2924, to guarantee the timely payment of
Social Security benefits in March 1996. The bill shall be debatable for 1
hour. The previous question shall be considered as ordered on the bill to
final passage without intervening motion except one motion to recommit. The
motion to recommit may include instructions only if offered by the Minority
Leader or his designee. Testimony was heard from Chairman Archer and
Representative Gibbons. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 



1996/02/05
Daily Digest - Monday, February 5, 1996;  pages D61 - D62

Committee Meetings 

No Committee meetings were held. 



1996/02/06
Daily Digest - Tuesday, February 6, 1996;  pages D63 - D66

Committee Meetings

PROFESSIONAL SPORTS FRANCHISE RELOCATION; ANTITRUST IMPLICATIONS

Committee on the Judiciary: Held an oversight hearing regarding Professional
Sports Franchise Relocation: Antitrust Implications; and also to discuss the
following bills: H.R. 2740, Fan Freedom and Community Protection Act of 1995;
and H.R. 2699, Fans Rights Act of 1995. Testimony was heard from Senator
Glenn; Representatives Hoke, Flanagan, and Stokes; Bob Lanier, Mayor, Houston,
Texas; and public witnesses. 



1996/02/07
Daily Digest - Wednesday, February 7, 1996;  pages D68 - D72

Committee Meetings

NATIONAL LABOR RELATIONS ACT AMENDMENTS

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Held a hearing on H.R.
2497, to amend the National Labor Relations Act. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses. 

OMB 2000 REFORMS: WHERE ARE WE HEADING?

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information and Technology held a hearing on OMB 2000 Reforms:
Where Are We Heading? Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
OMB: Alice M. Rivlin, Director; and John Koskinen, Deputy Director; the
following officials of the GAO: L. Nye Stevens, Director, Federal Management
and Workforce Issues; and Paul L. Posner, Director, Budget Issues, Accounting
and Information Management Division; and public witnesses. 

NII COPYRIGHT PROTECTION

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Courts and Intellectual Property
held a hearing on H.R. 2441, NII Copyright Protection Act of 1995. Testimony
was heard from public witnesses. 

Hearings continue tomorrow. 



1996/02/09
Daily Digest - Friday, February 9, 1996;  pages D73 - D75

Committee Meetings

DEBT CEILING LIMIT

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: On February 8, the Committee held
a hearing to provide an update on the debt ceiling limit issue. Testimony was
heard from Representatives Saxton, Mica, Kanjorski, and Kennedy of
Massachusetts; Robert E. Rubin, Secretary of the Treasury; and public
witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: On February 8, the Subcommittee
on Human Resources and Intergovernmental Relations held an oversight hearing
on the use of automated screens by Medicare contractors to prevent payment of
medically unnecessary claims. Testimony was heard from Gary Kavanagh, Deputy
Director, Bureau of Program Operations, Health Care Financing Administration,
Department of Health and Human Services; Sally Jaggar, Director, Health
Financing and Policy Issues, GAO; and public witnesses. 

NII COPYRIGHT PROTECTION

Committee on the Judiciary: On February 8, the Subcommittee on Courts and
Intellectual Property concluded hearings on H.R. 2441, NII Copyright
Protection Act of 1995. Testimony was heard from Jeanne Hurley Simon,
Chairperson, National Commission on Libraries and Information Science; Tuck
Tinsley III, President, American Printing House for the Blind, Inc.; and
public witnesses. 



1996/02/13
Daily Digest - Tuesday, February 13, 1996;  pages D77 - D78

Committee Meetings

No committee meetings were held. 



1996/02/16
Daily Digest - Friday, February 16, 1996;  pages D80 - D82

Committee Meetings

No Committee meetings were held. 



1996/02/20
Daily Digest - Tuesday, February 20, 1996;  pages D84 - D86

Committee Meetings

CONDUCT OF MONETARY POLICY

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Domestic and
International Monetary Policy held a hearing on the Conduct of Monetary Policy
(Humphrey-Hawkins). Testimony was heard from Alan Greenspan, Chairman, Board
of Governors, Federal Reserve System. 

NATIONAL GOVERNORS' ASSOCIATION WELFARE REFORM PROPOSAL

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Human Resources held a hearing on
the welfare reform proposals developed by the National Governors' Association.
Testimony was heard from Representative Velazquez; the following Governors:
Tommy G. Thompson, Wisconsin; and Thomas R. Carper, Delaware; Eloise Anderson,
Director, Department of Social Services, State of California; Gerald Whitburn,
Secretary, Department of Health and Human Services, State of Massachusetts;
and public witnesses. 



1996/02/23
Daily Digest - Friday, February 23, 1996;  pages D87 - D92

Committee Meetings

MEDICAID--BIPARTISAN NATIONAL GOVERNORS' ASSOCIATION AGREEMENT

Committee on Commerce: On February 21, the Committee held a hearing on the
Unanimous Bipartisan National Governors' Association Agreement on Medicaid.
Testimony was heard from the following Governors: John M. Engler, Michigan;
Lawton Chiles, Florida; Michael O. Leavitt, Utah; Bob Miller, Nevada; Tommy G.
Thompson, Wisconsin; and Roy Romer, Colorado. 

OVERSIGHT--DC WATER AND SEWER SYSTEMS

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on the District of
Columbia held an oversight hearing on the Water and Sewer Systems of the
District of Columbia. Testimony was heard from Michael McCabe, Director,
Region III, EPA; Tom Jacobus, Chief, Washington Aqueduct, Corps of Engineers,
Department of the Army; Larry King, Director, Department of Public Works,
District of Columbia; and public witnesses. 

LOCAL EMPOWERMENT AND FLEXIBILITY ACT

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: On February 22, the Subcommittee
on Human Resources and Intergovernmental Relations held a hearing on H.R.
2086, Local Empowerment and Flexibility Act of 1995. Testimony was heard from
Representative D89Hoyer; Angela Park, Coordinator, Sustainable Communities,
President's Council on Sustainable Development; Andrew Norton, Representative,
State of Connecticut; and public witnesses. 

                                           [Page: D89]

REAUTHORIZING EXPORT ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

Committee on International Relations: On February 22, the Subcommittee on
International Economic Policy and Trade held a hearing on Exports, Growth and
Jobs--Reauthorizing Federal Export Assistance Programs. Testimony was heard
from Ruth Harkin, President and CEO, Overseas Private Investment Corporation,
U.S. International Development Cooperation Agency; Timothy Hauser, Acting
Under Secretary, International Trade, Department of Commerce; and J. Joseph
Grandmaison, Director, Trade and Development Agency. 



1996/02/26
Daily Digest - Monday, February 26, 1996;  pages D93 - D104

Committee Meetings 

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN GOVERNMENT 

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information, and Technology held a hearing on Using the Best
Practices of Information Technology in Government. Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the GAO: Christopher Hoenig, Director, Information
Resources Management Policies and Issues; and David L. McClure, Assistant
Director, Information Management and Policy Issues; John M. Kost, Chief
Information Officer, State of Michigan; and public witnesses. 

NATIONAL GAMING IMPACT AND POLICY COMMISSION ACT 

Committee on Resources: Held a hearing on H.R. 497, National Gaming Impact and
Policy Commission Act. Testimony was heard from Representative Frank of
Massachusetts; and public witnesses. 



1996/02/27
Daily Digest - Tuesday, February 27, 1996;  pages D105 - D110

Committee Meetings

ENERGY AND WATER APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water began
appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from Congressional and public
witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D107]

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education began appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses. 

LEGISLATIVE APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislation held a hearing on the
House of Representatives. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the House: Robin H. Carle, Clerk; Wilson S. Livingood, Sergeant at Arms; Scott
M. Faulkner, Chief Administrative Officer; John W. Lainhart, IV, Inspector
General; John R. Miller, Deputy Law Revision Counsel; David E. Meade, Chief,
Office of the Legislative Counsel; and John F. Elsold, M.D., Attending
Physician. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation began
appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from Congressional and public
witnesses. 

COUNTERFEITING OF U.S. CURRENCY ABROAD

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on General Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing on the Counterfeiting of U.S. Currency Abroad.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the GAO: JayEtta Hecker,
Director, International Trade, Finance and Competitiveness; and Kate Monahan,
Evaluator; the following officials of the Department of the Treasury: John
Hawke, Under Secretary, Domestic Finance; and Eljay Bowron, Director, U.S.
Secret Service; Theodore Allison, Assistant, Board of Governors, Federal
Reserve System; Robert Sims, Special Advisor to the Assistant Secretary,
International Arms and Narcotics, Department of State; and public witnesses. 

NATIVE AMERICAN HOUSING ASSISTANCE

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Housing and
Community Development held a hearing on proposals for Native American Housing
Assistance and Self-Determination. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT--ELECTRICITY: STATE OF THE STATES

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Power held an oversight
hearing on Electricity: State of the States. Testimony was heard from the
following State Representatives: Jeb Bradely and Clifton Below, New Hampshire;
Warren Chisum, Texas; and George D. Caruolo, Rhode Island; David L. O'Connor,
Commissioner, Division of Energy Resources and John B. Howe, Chairman,
Department of Public Utilities, State of Massachusetts; Patrick Wood, III,
Chairman, Public Utility Commission, State of Texas; John Hanger,
Commissioner, Public Utility Commission, State of Pennsylvania; Jessie J.
Knight, Jr., Commissioner, Public Utility Commission, State of California;
Herb Tate, President, Board of Public Utilities, State of New Jersey; Allyson
K. Duncan, Commissioner, Utility Commission, State of North Carolina; and a
public witness. 

FDA REFORM

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Health and Environment held a hearing
on the Need for FDA Reform. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

WORLDWIDE PERSECUTION OF JEWS

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Operations
and Human Rights held a hearing on worldwide persecution of Jews. Testimony
was heard from public witnesses. 

HEALTH CARE REFORM ISSUES

Committee on the Judiciary: Held a hearing on Health Care Reform Issues:
Antitrust, Medical Malpractice Liability, and Volunteer Liability, including
discussion of the following measures: H.R. 2925, Antitrust Health Care
Advancement Act of 1996; H.R. 911, Volunteer Protection Act; and H.R. 2938,
Charitable Medical Care Act of 1996. Testimony was heard from Representatives
Porter and Weldon of Florida; Robert Pitofsky, Chairman, FTC; and public
witnesses. 

Hearing to continue tomorrow. 

WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Water
Resources and Environment held a hearing on the Water Resources Development
Act of 1996. Testimony was heard from John J. Haley, Jr., Deputy Executive
Director, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey; Jack Caldwell, Secretary,
Department of Natural Resources, State of Louisiana; and public witnesses. 

Hearings continue tomorrow. 

AGRICULTURAL MARKET TRANSITION ACT; BUDGET VIEWS AND ESTIMATES

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a modified closed rule on H.R.
2854, to modify the operation of certain agricultural programs, providing 2
hours of general debate divided equally between the chairman and ranking
minority member of the Committee on Agriculture. The rule waives all points of
order against consideration of the bill. The rule makes in order the Committee
on Agriculture D 108amendment in the nature of a substitute now printed in the
bill. All points of order are waived against the amendment in the nature of a
substitute, and provides that it shall be considered as read. Only the
amendments referenced in the report of the Committee on Rules are in order and
shall be considered only in the order printed in the report, may be offered
only by a Member designated in the report, shall be considered as read, shall
be debatable for the time specified in the report equally divided and
controlled by the proponent and an opponent, shall not be subject to amendment
(except as specified in the report), and shall not be subject to a demand for
a division of the question in the House or in the Committee on the Whole. All
points of order against the amendments referenced in the report of the
Committee on Rules are waived. The rule further provides that a separate vote
may be demanded in the House on any amendment adopted to the committee
amendment in the nature of a substitute. The rule also provides one motion to
recommit, with or without instructions. The chairman of the Committee on
Agriculture or a designee may offer amendments en bloc consisting of
amendments not previously disposed of which are printed in the report of the
Committee on Rules or germane modifications thereof which may include a
perfecting amendment to text proposed to be stricken by such an amendment. The
amendments offered en bloc shall be considered as read (except that
modifications shall be reported), shall be debatable for 20 minutes equally
divided between the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on
Agriculture or their designees. Finally, the rule permits the original
proponent of an amendment included in an en bloc amendment to insert a
statement in the Congressional Record immediately prior to the disposition of
the amendments en bloc. 

                                          [Page: D108]

Testimony was heard from Chairman Roberts and Representatives Barrett of
Nebraska, Smith of Michigan, Foley, Chambliss, Stenholm, Volkmer, Peterson of
Minnesota, Dooley, Pomeroy, Farr, Jacobs, Petri, Roth, Shays, Kingston, Miller
of Florida, Chabot, Tiahrt, Hamilton, Obey, Schumer, Kennedy of Massachusetts,
Olver, Sanders, Waters, and Deutsch. 

The Committee approved its Budget Views and Estimates for submission to the
Committee on the Budget. 



1996/02/28
Daily Digest - Wednesday, February 28, 1996;  pages D112 - D118

Committee Meetings

ENERGY AND WATER APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water continued
appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from Congressional and public
witnesses. 

INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior held a hearing on Indian
Programs. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education continued appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses. 

LEGISLATIVE APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative held a hearing on the
Joint Economic Committee, the Capitol Police Board, the CBO, the Architect of
the Capitol and the Botanic Garden. Testimony was heard from Senator Mack;
Representative Saxton; Wilson S. Livingood, Sergeant at Arms, House of
Representatives; Howard Greene, Sergeant at Arms, Senate; the following
officials of CBO: June O'Neill, Director; and James Blume, Deputy Director;
William Ensign, Acting Architect of the Capitol; and Gary Abrecht, Chief,
Capitol Police. 

MILITARY CONSTRUCTION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction held a
hearing on Marsh Task Force. Testimony was heard from John Marsh, former
Secretary of the Army. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation continued
appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from Congressional and public
witnesses. 

ORGANIZED CRIME AND BANKING; COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Held a hearing on the Threat that
Organized Criminal Groups Pose to the International Banking System. Testimony
was heard from JayEtta Hecker, Director, International Trade, Finance, and
Competitiveness, GAO; Edward W. Kelley, Jr., member, Board of Governors,
Federal Reserve System; the following officials of the Department of the
Treasury: Stanley E. Morris, Director, Financial Crimes Enforcement Network;
and Robert Rasor, Deputy Assistant Director, U.S. Secret Service; the
following officials of the Department of Justice: Harold D. Wankel, Chief of
Operations, DEA; Mark Richards, Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Criminal
Division; and Chuck Owens, Section Chief, Criminal Investigations Division,
Financial Crimes Section, FBI; Robert Sims, Special Advisor on International
Criminal Justice to the Assistant Secretary, International Narcotics and Law
Enforcement Affairs, Department of State; Richard A. Brown, District Attorney,
Queens County, State of New York; and public witnesses. 

The Committee also approved pending Committee business. 

URANIUM MILL TAILINGS RADIATION CONTROL ACT AUTHORIZATION

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Power held a hearing on H.R.
2967, to extend the authorization of the Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation
Control Act of 1978. Testimony was heard from James Owendoff, Deputy Assistant
Secretary, Environmental Restoration, Department of Energy; Bernice
Steinhardt, Associate Director, Resources, Community, and Economic Development
Division, GAO; Howard A. Roitman, Division Director, Hazardous Materials and
Waste Management Division, Department of Public Health and Environment, State
of Colorado; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D116]

SEC AUTHORIZATION ACT

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Finance approved
for full Committee action H.R. 2972, Securities and Exchange Commission
Authorization Act of 1996. 

Prior to this action, the Subcommittee held a hearing on this legislation.
Testimony was heard from Arthur Leavitt, Jr., Chairman, SEC. 

POSTMARK PROMPT PAYMENT ACT

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on the Postal
Service held a hearing on H.R. 1963, Postmark Prompt Payment Act of 1995.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

HAITI--AFTER UNITED STATES DEPARTURE

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere
Affairs held a hearing on Haiti: After The Departure of the U.S. Contingent
from UNMIH. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of Defense: John Christiansen, Director, Haiti Task Force; and Col. Richard H.
Coffin, USA Western Hemisphere Division, J-3, Joint Staff; John P. Leonard,
Director, Haiti Working Group, Department of State; and public witnesses. 

HEALTH CARE REFORM ISSUES

Committee on the Judiciary: Concluded hearings on Health Care Reform Issues:
Antitrust, Medical Malpractice Liability, and Volunteer Liability; including
discussion of the following measures: H.R. 2925, Antitrust Health Care
Advancement Act of 1996; H.R. 911, Volunteer Protection Act; and H.R. 2938,
Charitable Medical Care Act of 1996. Testimony was heard from Senator
McConnell; Representatives Archer, Goodlatte and Stark; and public witnesses. 

BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENSE

Committee on National Security: Held a hearing on Ballistic Missile Defense.
Testimony was heard from Richard N. Cooper, Chairman, National Intelligence
Council; and public witnesses. 

OIL AND GAS ROYALTY SIMPLIFICATION ACT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resource approved
for full Committee action H.R. 1975, Federal Oil and Gas Royalty
Simplification Act of 1995. 

ALLOCATING FUNDS--SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Committee on Science: Held a hearing on Allocating Federal Funds for Science
and Technology. Testimony was heard from Frank Press, President Emeritus,
National Academy of Sciences. 

SMALL BUSINESS' ACCESS TO CAPITAL

Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing on small business' access to
capital. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.

WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Water
Resources and Environment continued hearings on the Water Resources
Development Act of 1996. Testimony was heard from H. Martin Lancaster,
Assistant Secretary, Civil Works, Department of the Army; George Williamson,
Managing Director, Port of Houston, Texas; W. Don Welch, Executive Director,
State Ports Authority, South Carolina; the following officials of the State of
Oregon: Mike Thorne, Executive Director, Port of Portland; and Keith A.
Leavitt, Manager of Ports and Transportation Development; David N. Kennedy,
Director, Department of Water Resources, California; Randy Horiuchi,
Commissioner, City of Salt Lake, Utah; Jay L. Kimble, Mayor, Stillwater,
Minnesota; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Ways and Means: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 2778,
amended, to provide that members of the Armed Forces peacekeeping effort in
the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina be entitled to certain tax benefits;
H.R. 2853, to authorize the extension of nondiscriminatory treatment to the
products of Bulgaria; and H.R. 2969, Federal Tea Tasters Repeal Act of 1996. 



1996/02/29
Daily Digest - Thursday, February 29, 1996;  pages D120 - D130

Committee Meetings 

ENERGY AND WATER APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water continued
appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from congressional and public
witnesses. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education continued appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses. 

LEGISLATIVE APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative held a hearing on the
Joint Committee on Taxation and the GAO. Testimony was heard from
Representative Archer; and the following officials of the GAO: Charles
Bowsher, Comptroller General; James Hinchman, Special Assistant to the
Comptroller General; Gene Dodaro, Assistant Comptroller General, Operations;
and Richard Brown, Controller. 

MILITARY CONSTRUCTION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction held a
hearing on Quality of Life in the Military. Testimony was heard from the
following Senior Service Enlisted Advisors, Department of Defense: Gene
McKinney, USA; John Hagan, D 124USN; Louis Lee, USMC; and Dana Kampanell,
USAF. 

                                          [Page: D124]

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation continued
appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from congressional and public
witnesses. 

RURAL CREDIT

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Capital Markets,
Securities and Government Sponsored Enterprises held a hearing on Rural
Credit. Testimony was heard from Mark Drabenstott, Vice President and
Economist, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, Federal Reserve System;
Clarence W. Hawkins, Mayor, Bastrop, Louisiana; and public witnesses. 

CANCER PATIENT ACCESS--UNAPPROVED TREATMENTS

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held a
hearing on Cancer Patient Access to Unapproved Treatments. Testimony was heard
from Representative Defazio; and public witnesses. 

PUBLIC BROADCASTING SELF-SUFFICIENCY ACT 

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Finance held a
hearing on H.R. 2979, Public Broadcasting Self-Sufficiency Act of 1996.
Testimony was heard from Richard W. Carson, President and CEO, Corporation for
Public Broadcasting; and public witnesses. 

FEDERAL CONTRACT COMPLIANCE PROGRAMS AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY ACT 

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on
Employer-Employee Relations held a hearing on the Office of Federal Contract
Compliance Programs and H.R. 2138, Equal Opportunity Act of 1995. Testimony
was heard from public witnesses. 

CENSUS 2000

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Held a hearing on Census 2000:
Putting Our Money Where It Counts. Testimony was heard from Senator Kohl;
Representatives Sawyer and Petri; and public witnesses. 

TENANT INITIATIVE PROGRAMS

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Human Resources
and Intergovernmental Relations held a hearing on HUD's Management of Tenant
Initiative Programs. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Housing and Urban Development: Susan Gaffney, Inspector General;
Patricia Arnaudo, Deputy Director, Program Development; and Kevin Marchman,
Acting Assistant Secretary, Public and Indian Housing; Ed Moses, Deputy
Executive Director, Community Relations and Involvement, Housing Authority,
Chicago, Illinois; Miguel Rodriguez, Executive Director, Public Housing
Authority, Puerto Rico; and a public witness. 

CUBAN DOWNING OF UNITED STATES CIVILIAN AIRCRAFT 

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on the Shoot Down of U.S.
Civilian Aircraft by Castro Regime. Testimony was heard from Peter Tarnoff,
Under Secretary, Political Affairs, Department of State; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES 

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
approved for full Committee action the following measures: H.J. Res. 129,
granting consent of Congress to the Vermont-New Hampshire Interstate Public
Water Supply Compact; H.R. 2604, Bankruptcy Judgeship Act of 1995; and H.R.
2977, Administrative Dispute Resolution Act of 1996. 

Prior to this action, the Subcommittee held a hearing on H.J. Res. 129.
Testimony was heard from Representatives Bass and Sanders. 

INDEPENDENT COUNSEL REFORM

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime held a hearing on the
Independent Counsel Statute and H.R. 892, Independent Counsel Accountability
and Reform Act of 1995. Testimony was heard from Representatives Hyde and
Dickey; Joseph E. diGenova, former Independent Counsel; Abner Mikva, former
White House Counsel and U.S. Circuit Judge (rtd.); Lawrence Walsh, former
Independent Counsel and U.S. District Judge (rtd.); David Clark, Director,
Audit, Oversight and Liaison, GAO; Melvin J. Bryson, Jr., Chief,
Administrative Services Office, Administrative Office of the United States
Courts; John C. Keney, Acting Assistant Attorney General, Department of
Justice; and a public witness. 

WHITE HOUSE TRAVEL OFFICE

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration and Claims approved
for full Committee action H.R. 2937, for the reimbursement of legal expenses
and related fees incurred by former employees of the White House Travel Office
with respect to the termination of their employment in that Office on May 19, 1993. 

BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENSE

                                          [Page: D125]

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Research and
Development met to discuss Ballistic Missile Defense. 

INTERNATIONAL DOLPHIN PROTECTION 

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans held a
hearing on H.R. 2823, International Dolphin Conservation Act and H.R. 2856,
International Dolphin Protection and Consumer Information Act of 1995.
Testimony was heard from Senators Biden and Boxer; Representatives Cunningham
and Bilbray; Timothy Wirth, Under Secretary, Global Affairs, Department of
State; the following officials of the Department of Commerce: Douglas K. Hall,
Assistant Secretary, Oceans and Atmosphere and Deputy Administrator, NOAA; and
Elizabeth Edwards, Leader, Dolphin Safe Research Program, Southwest Fisheries
Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service; and public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT--RENEWABLE RESOURCES PLANNING ACT PROGRAM

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands held
an oversight hearing on the Forest Service's Draft 1995 Renewable Resources
Planning Act Program. Testimony was heard from David Unger, Associate Chief,
Forest Service, USDA; and public witnesses. 

REGULATORY SUNSET REVIEW ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
debate on H.R. 994, Regulatory Sunset and Review Act of 1995, to be equally
divided by the chairmen and ranking minority members of the Committees on
Government Reform and Oversight and the Judiciary. The rule makes the
amendment in the nature of a substitute by Representative Hyde printed in the
Congressional Record on February 29 as amendment numbered 1 in order as an
original bill for the purposes of amendment. 

The rule provides that the amendment in the nature of a substitute be
considered by title, and that the first section and each title shall be
considered as read, and waives points of order against the amendment in the
nature of a substitute for failure to comply with clause 7 of rule XVI
(germaneness). The rule accords priority in recognition to Members who have
preprinted their amendment in the Congressional Record. The rule provides one
motion to recommit with or without instructions. 

The rule vacates action by which the House amended and passed S. 219. The rule
provides that it be in order to take from the Speaker's table and consider the
Senate bill. The rule allows for a motion to be offered by Chairman Clinger
that the House strike all after the enacting clause of the Senate bill and
insert the text of H.R. 994 as passed by the House. The rule allows 1 hour of
debate on the motion to be equally divided and controlled between the chairman
and ranking minority member of the Committee on Government Reform and
Oversight, waives germaneness point of order against the motion, and allows
one motion to commit. Finally, the rule provides that if the motion to amend
is adopted, then it shall be in order to move that the House insist on its
amendments and request a conference with the Senate. Testimony was heard from
Chairman Clinger; and Representatives Gekas, Meyers of Kansas, and Chapman. 

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE MODERNIZATION

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment held a hearing on
National Weather Service Modernization Program Status. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Commerce: D. James Baker,
Administrator, NOAA and Under Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere; and Frank
DeGeorge, Inspector General; Jack L. Brock, Jr., Director, Information
Resources Management, Resources, Community, and Economic Development, GAO; and
a public witness. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 

AIRPORT IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM--AIRPORT PRIVATIZATION

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing on Airport Improvement Program, with emphasis on Airport
Privatization. Testimony was heard from Gerald L. Dillingham, Associate
Director, Transportation Issues, Resources, Community, and Economic
Development Division, GAO; Gerald Fitzgerald, Director, Aviation Department,
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey; and public witnesses. 

Hearings continue March 7. 

HOSPITAL INSURANCE TRUST FUND--FINANCIAL REVIEW

Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing to review the current financial
condition of the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Fund. Testimony was heard
from Robert E. Rubin, Secretary of the Treasury; Donna E. Shalala, Secretary,
Health and Human Services; and Sarah F. Jaggar, Director, Health Financing and
Policy Issues Division, GAO. 



1996/03/04
Daily Digest - Monday, March 4, 1996; pages D132 - D134

Committee Meetings 

No committee meetings were held. 



1996/03/05
Daily Digest - Tuesday, March 5, 1996;  pages D135 - D142

Committee Meetings

IMMIGRATION IN THE NATIONAL INTEREST ACT

Committee on Agriculture: Ordered reported amended H.R. 2202, Immigration in
the National Interest Act of 1995. 

AGRICULTURE APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies continued appropriation
hearings. Testimony was heard from congressional and public witnesses. 

ENERGY AND WATER APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development
continued appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from congressional and
public witnesses. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education continued appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses. 

LEGISLATIVE APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative Branch held a hearing
on the Joint Committee on Printing, the GPO and the Library of Congress.
Testimony was heard from Representative Thomas; the following officials of the
GPO: Michael F. DiMario, Public Printer; and Wayne P. Kelley, Superintendent
of Documents; and James H. Billington, Librarian of Congress. 

FEDERALISM

Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on Federalism. Testimony was heard
from Becky Norton Dunlop, Secretary, Natural Resources, State of Virginia; and
public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Power approved for full
Committee action the following bills: H.R. 2596, to extend energy conservation
programs under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act through fiscal year
1999; H.R. 2967, amended, to extend the authorization of the Uranium Mill
Tailings Radiation Control Act of 1978; H.R. 2501, amended, to extend the
deadline under the Federal Power Act applicable to the construction of a
hydroelectric project in Kentucky; H.R. 2630, amended, to extend the deadline
for commencement of construction of a hydroelectric project in the State of
Illinois; H.R. 2695, amended, to extend the deadline under the Federal Power
Act applicable to the construction of certain hydroelectric projects in the
State of Pennsylvania; H.R. 2773, amended, to extend the deadline under the
Federal Power Act applicable to the construction of 2 hydroelectric projects
in North Carolina; H.R. 2816, to reinstate the license for, and extend the
deadline under the Federal Power Act applicable to the construction of, a
hydroelectric project in Ohio; H.R. 2869, amended, to extend the deadline for
commencement of construction of a hydroelectric project in the State of
Kentucky; and H.R. 1514, Propane Education and Research Act of 1995. 

IMMIGRATION IN THE NATIONAL INTEREST ACT

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Civil Service
approved for full Committee action amended H.R. 2202, Immigration in the
National Interest Act of 1995. 

VIOLATIONS OF UNITED STATES EMBARGO ON CUBA

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere
held a hearing on Violations of the United States Embargo on Cuba. Testimony
was heard from Michael Ranneberger; Coordinator, Office of Cuban Affairs,
Department of State; Richard Newcomb, Director, Office of Foreign Assets
Control, Department of the Treasury; and Mark M. Richard, Deputy Assistant
Attorney General, Criminal Division, Department of Justice. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Research and
Development began hearings on the fiscal year 1997 national defense
authorization request, with emphasis on Federally Funded Research and
Development Centers and University Affiliated Centers. Testimony was heard
from Paul G. Kaminski, Under Secretary, Acquisition and Technology, Department
of Defense; and public witnesses. 

AUTHORIZATION--PANAMA CANAL COMMISSION AND U.S. MARITIME ADMINISTRATION

Committee on National Security: Special Oversight Panel on the Merchant Marine
began hearings on the fiscal year 1997 Panama Canal Commission and U.S.
Maritime Administration authorization requests. Testimony was heard from
Albert H. Herberger, Administrator, Maritime Administration, Department of
Transportation; and the following officials of the D 139Panama Canal
Commission: Joe R. Reeder, Chairman, Board of Directors; and Gilberto Guardia,
Administrator. 

                                          [Page: D139]

HOUSING IMPROVEMENT ACT FOR LAND MANAGEMENT AGENCIES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands held
a hearing on H.R. 2941, Housing Improvement Act for Land Management Agencies.
Testimony was heard from Roger Kennedy, Director, National Park Service,
Department of the Interior; Mark Reimers, Deputy Chief, Forest Service, USDA;
and public witnesses. 

CONFERENCE REPORT--CUBAN LIBERTY AND DEMOCRATIC SOLIDARITY ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a rule waiving all points of order
against the conference to accompany H.R. 927, Cuban Liberty and Democratic
Solidarity Act of 1995, and against its consideration. The rule provides that
the conference report shall be considered as read. Testimony was heard from
Chairman Gilman and Representatives Burton of Indiana, Ros-Lehtinen, Campbell,
and Hamilton. 

WHITE HOUSE TRAVEL INVESTIGATION

Committee on Rules: Ordered reported, by voice vote, H. Res. 369, to provide
to the Committee on Government Reform and Oversight special authorities to
obtain testimony for purposes of investigation and study of the White House
Travel Office matter. 

Prior to this action, the committee held a hearing on this resolution.
Testimony was heard from Chairman Clinger and Representative Collins of
Michigan. 

RAIL SAFETY OVERSIGHT

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Railroads held
a hearing on Rail Safety Oversight: Human Factor and Grade Crossing Issues.
Testimony was heard from Senator Lautenberg; David Winstead, Secretary,
Department of Transportation, State of Maryland; and public witnesses. 

Hearings continue tomorrow. 

COUNTERTERRORISM

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Subcommittee on Human
Intelligence, Analysis, and Counterintelligence met in executive session to
hold a hearing on Counterterrorism. Testimony was heard from departmental
witnesses. 



1996/03/06
Daily Digest - Wednesday, March 6, 1996;  pages D144 - D152

Committee Meetings 

AGRICULTURE APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies continued appropriation
hearings. Testimony was heard from congressional and public witnesses. 

ENERGY AND WATER APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development
continued appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from congressional and
public witnesses. 

FOREIGN OPERATIONS APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Foreign Operations, Export
Financing and Related Agencies held a hearing on Jordan Arms Transfers.
Testimony was heard from Walter B. Slocombe, Under Secretary, Policy,
Department of Defense; and Robert H. Pelletreau, Assistant Secretary, Near
Eastern Affairs, Department of State. 

INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior held a hearing on the
National Endowment for the Humanities. Testimony was heard from Sheldon
Hackney, Chairman, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Foundation
on the Arts and the Humanities. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education continued appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses. 

LEGISLATIVE APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative continued
appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from Representative Ehlers; and
public witnesses. 

The Subcommittee also held a hearing on the Office of Compliance. Testimony
was heard from the following officials of that Office: Glen Nager, Chairman,
Board of Directors; and Ricky Silberman, Executive Director. 

MILITARY CONSTRUCTION APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction held a
hearing on the Army. Testimony was heard from Robert M. Walker, Assistant
Secretary of the Army, Department of Defense. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation held a hearing on
Inspector General Reports. Testimony was heard from A. Mary Schiavo, Inspector
General, Department of Transportation. 

TREASURY-POSTAL SERVICE-GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Treasury, Postal Service, and
General Government held a hearing on issues in Treasury Law Enforcement.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of the
Treasury: Robert E. Rubin, Secretary; John W. Magaw, Director, Bureau of
Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; Charles F. Rinkevich, Director, Federal Law
Enforcement Training Center; Eljay B. Bowron, Director, U.S. Secret Service;
and George Weise, Commissioner of Customs, U.S. Customs Service. 

VA-HUD AND INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Veterans' Affairs, HUD and
Independent Agencies held a hearing on the NSF. Testimony was heard from Neal
F. Lane, Director, NSF. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES 

Committee on Commerce: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 2972,
amended, Securities and Exchange Commission Authorization Act of 1996; and
H.R. 2969, Federal Tea Tasters Repeal Act of 1996. 

MEDICAID--BIPARTISAN NATIONAL GOVERNORS ASSOCIATION AGREEMENT 

Committee on Commerce: The Committee also continued hearings on the Unanimous
Bipartisan National Governors Association Agreement on Medicaid. Testimony was
heard from Donna E. Shalala, Secretary of Health and Human Services; Gail
Wilensky, Chairman, Board of Directors, Physician Payment Review Commission;
and public witnesses. 

ERISA TARGETED HEALTH INSURANCE REFORM ACT; CONGRESSIONAL ACCOUNTABILITY ACT
REGULATIONS 

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Ordered reported amended
H.R. 995, ERISA Targeted Health Insurance Reform Act of 1995. 

                                          [Page: D148]

The Committee also adopted a motion to instruct the Chairman to seek adoption
by the House of resolutions regarding the Congressional Accountability Act
regulations. 

OVERSIGHT--IRS FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT 

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information, and Technology held an oversight hearing on IRS
Financial Management. Testimony was heard from Gene L. Dodaro, Assistant
Comptroller General, Accounting and Information Management Division, GAO;
Margaret Milner Richardson, Commissioner of Internal Revenue, IRS, Department
of the Treasury; and public witnesses. 

REQUIRING TWO-THIRDS MAJORITIES--BILLS INCREASING TAXES 

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution held a hearing on
H.J. Res. 159, proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States
to require two-thirds majorities for bills increasing taxes. Testimony was
heard from Senator Kyl; Representatives Barton of Texas, Skaggs, Geren of
Texas, and Shadegg; Ken Blackwell, Treasurer, State of Ohio; and public
witnesses. 

MARIJUANA USE IN AMERICA

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime held a hearing on marijuana
use in America. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Began hearings on the fiscal year 1997
national defense authorization request. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Defense: William J. Perry, Secretary; and Gen.
John M. Shalikashvili, USA, Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff. 

FURTHER BALANCED BUDGET APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Rules: Granted, by a recorded vote of 9 to 2, a modified closed
rule providing 1 hour of debate on H.R. 3019, making appropriations for fiscal
year 1996 to make a further downpayment toward a balanced budget. The rule
provides for the adoption in the House and in the Committee of the Whole of an
amendment printed in section 2 of the report of the Committee on Rules. 

The rule further provides for the consideration of the amendments specified in
the report of the Committee on Rules, which shall be considered only in the
order specified in the report, may be offered only by a Member designated in
the report, shall be considered as read, debatable for the time specified in
the report equally divided and controlled by the proponent and an opponent.
Said amendments shall not be subject to amendment and shall not be subject to
a demand for division of the question in the House or in the Committee of the
Whole. The rule waives all points of order against the amendments specified in
the report of the Committee on Rules. Finally, the rule provides that the
previous question shall be considered as ordered on the bill to final passage
without intervening motion except one motion to recommit which, if containing
instructions, may only be offered by the Minority Leader or his designee.
Testimony was heard from Chairman Livingston and Representatives Istook,
Gekas, Morella, Zeliff, Greenwood, Crapo, McIntosh, Obey, Pelosi, Lowey,
Rangel, Richardson, Pallone, Sawyer, and Furse. 

CONTINUING INVESTMENT OF SOCIAL SECURITY AND OTHER FEDERAL FUNDS

Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, a closed rule providing for the
consideration of H.R. 3021, to guarantee the continuing full investment of
Social Security and other Federal funds in obligations of the United States,
in the House. The rule provides a motion to recommit which may include
instructions only if offered by the Minority Leader or his designee. Testimony
was heard from Chairman Archer and Representatives Smith of Michigan and
Gibbons. 

GLOBAL CHANGE RESEARCH PROGRAMS

Committee on Science: Held a hearing on Global Change Research Programs: Data
Collection and Scientific Priorities. Testimony was heard from Robert T.
Watson, Associate Director, Environment, Office of Science and Technology
Policy; Charles Kennel, Associate Administrator, Office of Mission to Planet
Earth, NASA; Brad Hathaway, Associate Director, Defense Management Issues,
National Security and International Affairs Division, GAO; Michael MacCracken,
Director, Office of the U.S. Global Change Research Program, National
Scientific and Technology Council; Arno Ledebuhr, Lawrence Livermore National
Laboratory; and public witnesses. 

TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER AND INNOVATIVE RESEARCH PROGRAMS

Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing on assessing the Small Business
Technology Transfer Pilot Program and Small Business Innovation Research
Program. Testimony was heard from Victor S. Rezendes, Director, Energy,
Resources and Science Issues, Resources, Community and Economic Development
Division, GAO; Daniel O. Hill, Assistant Administrator, Technology Programs,
SBA; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D149]

NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation and
the Subcommittee on Railroads held a joint hearing on reauthorizing the
National Transportation Safety Board. Testimony was heard from James E. Hall,
Chairman, National Transportation Safety Board. 

OVERSIGHT--RAIL SAFETY

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Railroads
continued hearings on Rail Safety Oversight: Human Factors and Grade Crossing
Issues. Testimony was heard from Robert Lauby, Chief, Railroad Division,
National Transportation Safety Board; and Jolene Molitoris, Administrator,
Federal Railroad Administration, Department of Transportation. 

WATER SUPPLY INFRASTRUCTURE ASSISTANCE ACT

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Water
Resources and Environment approved for full Committee action the following:
H.R. 2747, amended, Water Supply Infrastructure Assistance Act of 1995; and 13
water resources survey resolutions. 

BROWN/RUDMAN COMMISSION REPORT

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Held a hearing on the Brown/Rudman
Commission Report. Testimony was heard from Warren B. Rudman, former Senator,
State of New Hampshire; and Harold Brown, former Secretary of Defense. 



1996/03/07
Daily Digest - Thursday, March 7, 1996;  pages D153 - D164

Committee Meetings

AGRICULTURE APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies continued appropriations
hearings. Testimony was heard from congressional and public witnesses. 

INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior held a hearing on
Department of Energy and other programs. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education continued appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D157]

MILITARY CONSTRUCTION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction held a
hearing on the Air Force. Testimony was heard from Ronald Coleman, Assistant
Secretary, Manpower, Reserve Affairs, Installations and Environment,
Department of the Air Force. 

NATIONAL SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security held a hearing
on fiscal year 1997 Defense Budget. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Defense: William J. Perry, Secretary; and Gen.
John M. Shalikashvili, USA, Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation held a hearing on
the GAO and on the National Transportation Safety Board. Testimony was heard
from John Anderson, Director, Transportation Issues, GAO; and James E. Hall,
Chairman, National Transportation Safety Board. 

FUTURE OF MONEY

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Domestic and
International Monetary Policy continued hearings on the Future of Money, Part
III. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

CORPORATE WELFARE

Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on Corporate Welfare. Testimony was
heard from public witnesses. 

HEALTH CARE REFORM

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Health and Environment held a hearing
on Health Care Reform: Reforming the Small Business Marketplace and the
Individual Health Insurance Market. Testimony was heard from Brian Atchinson,
Superintendent of Insurance, State of Maine; and public witnesses. 

SECURITIES AMENDMENTS ACT OF 1996

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Finance approved
for full Committee action amended H.R. 3005, Securities Amendments of 1996. 

INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES EDUCATION ACT

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on Early
Childhood, Youth and Families held a hearing on a proposed IDEA (Individuals
with Disabilities Education Act) Improvement Act. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MATTERS

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: ordered reported amended H.R.
2202, Immigration and National Interest Act of 1995. 

The Committee also adopted Special Committee Rules to obtain deposition
testimony on the White House Travel Office matter. 

The Committee also approved a draft report entitled "National Drug Policy: A
Review of the Status of the Drug War." 

ADMINISTRATION'S PROGRAM--NARCOTICS IN LATIN AMERICA

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere
held a hearing to review the Administration's certification program for
Narcotics producing and transit countries in Latin America. Testimony was
heard form Robert S. Gelbard, Assistant Secretary, International Narcotics and
Law Enforcement Affairs, Department of State; and Thomas A. Constantine,
Administrator, DEA, Department of Justice. 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY ACT OF 1995

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution approved for full
Committee action amended H.R. 2128, Equal Opportunity Act of 1995. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime held a hearing on the
following bills: H.R. 1143, to amend title 18, United States Code, with
respect to witness retaliation; H.R. 1144, to amend title 18, United States
Code, with respect to witness tampering; H.R. 1144, to amend title 18, United
States Code, with respect to jury tampering; H.R. 2092, Private Security
Officer Quality Assurance Act of 1995; H.R. 2137, Megan's Law; H.R. 2453,
Fugitive Detention Act of 1995; H.R. 2587, War Crimes Act of 1995; H.R. 2607,
Veterans' Memorials Protection Act of 1995; H.R. 2641, United States Marshals
Service Improvement Act of 1995; H.R. 2650, Mandatory Federal Prison Drug
Treatment Act of 1995; H.R. 2803, Anti-Car Theft Improvements Act of 1995;
H.R. 2804, to amend the auto theft provisions of title 49, United States Code,
to add air bag modules to the list of major auto parts protected under such
provisions; H.R. 2974, Crimes Against Children and Elderly Persons Punishment
and Prevention Act of 1995; H.R. 2980, Interstate Stalking Punishment and
Prevention Act of 1996; and H.R. 2996, Law Enforcement and Industrial Security
Cooperation Act of 1996. Testimony was heard from Representatives Martinez,
Chrysler, Fox, Zimmer, Frank of Massachusetts, Jones, Lowey, and Royce; Kevin
V. DiGregory, Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Criminal Division, Department
of Justice. 

                                          [Page: D158]

MILITARY HOUSING

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Installation and
Facilities held a hearing on alternative authorities for construction and
improvement of military housing. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Defense: Robert E. Bayer, Deputy Assistant
Secretary, Installations; Paul Johnson, Deputy Assistant Secretary,
Installations and Housing, Department of the Army; Duncan Holaday, Deputy
Assistant Secretary, Installations and Housing, Department of the Navy; and
Jimmy G. Dishner, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Installations, Department of the
Air Force. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security; Subcommittee on Military Personnel began
hearings on the fiscal year 1996 national defense authorization request, with
emphasis on Department of Defense TRICARE and alternatives for retiree health
care. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
Defense: Maj. Gen. James Peake, USA, Deputy Commander, U.S. Army Medical
Command; and Stephen Joseph M.D., Assistant Secretary, Health Affairs; Stephen
P. Backus, Associate Director, Health Care Delivery and Quality Issues, GAO;
Steve Tough, President and CEO, Foundation Health Federal Services
Managed-Care Support Contractor for TRICARE; and public witnesses. 

Hearings continue March 12. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Procurement and the
Subcommittee on Military Research and Development held a joint hearing on the
fiscal year 1997 national defense authorization request, with emphasis on
Ballistic Missile Defense. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the Department of Defense: Lt. Gen. Malcolm R. O'Neill, USA, Director,
Ballistic Missile Defense Organization; Lt. Gen. George K. Muellner, USAF,
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Acquisition, Department of the Air
Force, RAdm. John T. Hood, USN, Program Executive Officer, Theater Air
Defense; and Brig. Gen. Richard A. Black, USA, Program Executive Officer,
Missile Defense. 

MINERAL MANAGEMENT SERVICE ORGANIC ACT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources held a
hearing on H.R. 1813, Mineral Management Service Organic Act. Testimony was
heard from Cynthia Quarterman, Director, Minerals Management Service,
Department of the Interior; Robert R. Jordan, State Geologist and Director,
Geological Survey, State of Delaware; and public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT--DAM SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Water and Power Resources held an
oversight hearing on dam safety and deferred maintenance issues at Bureau of
Reclamation facilities. Testimony was heard from Patricia J. Beneke, Assistant
Secretary, Water and Science, Department of the Interior; Fred Springer,
Director, Office of Hydropower Licensing, Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission, Department of Energy; Anthony K. Chargin, Deputy Associate
Director, Energy, Manufacturing, Transportation Technologies, Lawrence
Livermore National Laboratories; the following officials of the State of
California: Vernon Persson, Chief, Division of Safety of Dams, Department of
Water Resources; and Steven Miklos, Vice Mayor, Folsom, California; and public
witnesses. 

CONFERENCE REPORT--AMERICAN OVERSEAS INTERESTS ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a rule waiving all points of order
against the conference report to accompany H.R. 1561, American Overseas
Interests Act of 1995, and against its consideration. The rule provides that
the conference report shall be considered as read. Testimony was heard from
Chairman Hyde and Representative Conyers. 

EFFECTIVE DEATH PENALTY AND PUBLIC SAFETY ACT

Committee on Rules: The Committee granted, by voice vote, a rule providing 1
hour of debate on H.R. 2703, Effective Death Penalty and Public Safety Act of
1996. The rule provides for the Committee of the Whole to rise after general
debate without further motion. No further consideration of the bill is
provided for except by a subsequent order of the House. Testimony was heard
from Chairman Gilman and Representative Hamilton. 

RESTRUCTURED FUSION ENERGY SCIENCES PROGRAM

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment held a hearing on
Department of Energy's Restructured Fusion Energy Sciences Program. Testimony
was heard from Martha A. Krebs, Director, Office of Energy and Research,
Department of Energy; L. John Perkins, Magnetic Fusion Energy Program,
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory; and public witnesses. 

REDUCING REGULATIONS AND PAPERWORK BURDENS

Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing on EPA's Progress in Reducing
Unnecessary Regulations and Paperwork Burdens Upon Small Business. Testimony D
159was heard from Fred Hansen, Deputy Administrator, EPA; and public
witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D159]

NLRB RULEMAKING

Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Regulation and Paperwork held a
hearing on rulemaking at the NLRB. Testimony was heard from William B. Gould,
IV, Chairman, NLRB; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; BUDGET VIEWS AND ESTIMATES

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Ordered reported the
following: H.R. 2747, amended, Water Supply Infrastructure Assistance Act of
1995; H. Con. Res. 146, authorizing the 1996 Special Olympics Torch to be run
through the Capitol Grounds; and H. Con. Res. 147, authorizing the use of the
Capitol Grounds for the 15th Annual National Peace Officers' Memorial Service. 

The Committee approved the following: 14 pending water resources resolutions;
and its Budget Views and Estimates for submission to the Committee on the
Budget. 

AIRPORT IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation
continued hearings on the Airport Improvement Program, with emphasis on
revenue diversion. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Transportation: Nicholas G. Garaulis, Chief Counsel, FAA; and A.
Mary Schiavo, Inspector General; Benjamin DeCosta, General Manager, Aviation
Department, Newark International Airport, New York/New Jersey Port Authority;
and public witnesses. 

Hearings continue March 13. 

OVERSIGHT--GI BILL

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Education, Training,
Employment and Housing held an oversight hearing on the Montgomery GI Bill.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense:
Lt. Gen. Samuel E. Ebbesen, USA, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Military
Personnel Policy; and Al Bemis, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Manpower and
Personnel, Office of the Secretary, Reserve Affairs; Raymond H. Avent, Deputy
Under Secretary, Benefits, Department of Veterans Affairs; and public
witnesses. 

CHINA

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on China. Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses. 



1996/03/08
Daily Digest - Friday, March 8, 1996;  pages D166 - D172

Committee Meetings

DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY-TRAVEL EXPENDITURES

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations continued
hearings on the Department of Energy: Travel Expenditures and Related Issues.
Testimony was heard from John C. Layton, Inspector General, Department of
Commerce. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Courts and Intellectual Property
held a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 1659, Patent and Trademark Office
Corporation Act of 1995; and H.R. 2553, United States Intellectual Property
Organization Act of 1995. Testimony was heard from Representatives Rohrabacher
and Hunter; and public witnesses. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Continued hearings on fiscal year 1997
national defense authorization request. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Defense: Togo D. West, Jr., Secretary of the
Army; John H. Dalton, Secretary of the Navy; and Sheila E. Widnall, Secretary
of the Air Force. 

Hearings continue March 13. 



1996/03/11
Daily Digest - Monday, March 11, 1996;  pages D173 - D176

Committee Meetings 

PERSIAN GULF WAR SYNDROME 

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Human Resources
and Intergovernmental Relations held a hearing on the status of efforts to
identify Persian Gulf War Syndrome, Part I. Testimony was heard from Robyn
Nishimi, President's Advisory Committee on Persian Gulf Veterans' Illnesses;
the following officials of the Institute of Medicine, National Academy of
Sciences: David Rall, M.D., Foreign Secretary; and John Bailar, M.D.,
Chairman, Committee to Review the Health Consequences of Service During the
Persian Gulf War; and public witnesses. 

Hearings continue March 28. 



1996/03/12
Daily Digest - Tuesday, March 12, 1996;  pages D177 - D184

Committee Meetings

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
FDA, and Related Agencies held appropriation hearing on Food and Drug
Administration. Testimony was heard from David A. Kessler, M.D. Commissioner,
FDA, Department of Health and Human Services. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on the following: Corporation for National and
Community Service; Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service; Federal Mine
Safety and Health Review Commission; National Commission on Libraries; and the
National Council on Disability. Testimony was heard from Harris Wofford, CEO,
Corporation for National and Community Service; May Lu Jordan, Chairperson,
Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission; John Calhoun Wells,
Director, Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service; Jeanne Hurley Simon,
Chairperson, National Commission on Libraries; and Kate Pew Wolters, member
and Chairperson, Committee on Finance, National Council on Disability. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation held a hearing on
the Coast Guard. Testimony was heard from Adm. Robert E. Kramek, USCG,
Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. 

TREASURY, POSTAL SERVICE, AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Treasury, Postal Service, and
General Government held a hearing on developments in financial law
enforcement. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of the Treasury: Eljay B. Bowron, Director, U.S. Secret Service;
John W. Magaw, Director, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; Charles F.
Rinkevich, Director, Federal Law Enforcement Training Center; Donald K. Vogel,
Assistant Commissioner, Criminal Investigation, IRS; and Stanley E. Morris,
Director, Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on House Oversight: Ordered reported the following measures: H. Res.
377, providing amounts D181for further expenses of the Committee on Standards
of Office Conduct in the second session of the 104th Congress; a resolution
adopting regulations implementing Congressional Accountability Act (House); a
resolution adopting regulations implementing Congressional Accountability Act
(other entities); H.R. 3058, to amend the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens
Absentee Voting Act to extend the period for receipt of absentee ballots; and
S. Con. Res. 34, to authorize the printing of "Vice Presidents of the United
States, 1789-1993." 

                                          [Page: D181]

The Committee also approved other pending Committee business. 

PLO COMMITMENT COMPLIANCE--TERRORIST THREAT TO ISRAEL

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on PLO Commitment
Compliance and the Terrorist Threat to Israel. Testimony was heard from Robert
H. Pelletreau, Assistant Secretary, Near East and South Asian Affairs,
Department of State; and public witnesses. 

REAUTHORIZING EXPORT ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Economic
Policy and Trade held a hearing on exports, growth and jobs and reauthorizing
Federal Export Assistance programs. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on the Judiciary: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 2925,
Antitrust Health Care Advancement Act of 1996; H.R. 2937, amended, for the
reimbursement of legal expenses and related fees incurred by former employees
of the White House Travel Office with respect to the termination of their
employment in that Office on May 19, 1993; H.R. 2511, Anticounterfeiting
Consumer Protection Act of 1995; H.R. 1861, amended, to make technical
corrections in the Satellite Home Viewer Act of 1994 and other provisions of
title 17, United States Code; H.R. 1734, amended, National Film Preservation
Act of 1995; H.R. 2977, Administrative Dispute Resolution Act of 1996; H.J.
Res. 129, granting the consent of Congress to the Vermont-New Hampshire
Interstate Public Water Supply Compact; and H.R. 2604, to amend title 28,
United States Code, to authorize the appointment of additional bankruptcy
judges. 

The Committee also approved the following: private claims bills; and its
Budget Views and Estimates for submission to the Committee on the Budget. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Personnel continued
hearings on the fiscal year 1997 national defense authorization request,
receiving a quality-of-life and compensation review. Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the Department of Defense: Frederick Pang,
Assistant Secretary, Force Management Policy; Lt. Gen. Theodore G. Stroup,
Jr., USA, Deputy Chief of Staff, Personnel, Department of the Army; VAdm.
Frank L. Bowman, USN, Chief of Naval Personnel, Department of the Navy; Lt.
Gen. George R. Christmas, USMC, Deputy Chief of Staff, Manpower and Reserve
Affairs, U.S. Marine Corps; and Lt. Gen. Michael D. McGinty, USAF, Deputy
Chief of Staff, Personnel, Department of the Air Force; John W. Marsh, Jr.,
former Secretary of the Army and Chairman, Task Force on Quality of Life; and
Adm. William D. Smith, USN (Ret.), Senior Fellow, Center for Naval Analysis. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Procurement began
hearings on the fiscal year 1997 national defense authorization request, with
emphasis on the Department of Energy budget. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Energy: Charles Curtis, Deputy
Secretary; Victor Reis, Assistant Secretary, Defense Programs; and John
Rohlfing, Director, Office of Nonproliferation and National Security; Harold
Smith, Jr., Assistant to the Secretary, Nuclear, Chemical, and Biological
Matters, Department of Defense; and the following Directors, National
Laboratories: Sig Hecker, Los Alamos; Bruce Tarter, Lawrence Livermore; and
Paul Robinson, President and Director, Sandia. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Research and
Development continued hearings in the fiscal year 1997 national defense
authorization request, with emphasis on the chemical-biological defense
program and response to urban terrorism. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Defense: Ted Prociv, Deputy Assistant
Secretary, Chemical and Biological Matters; Maj. Gen. George E. Friel, USA,
Commander, U.S. Army Chemical and Biological Defense Command; RAdm. Scott A.
Frey, USN, Deputy Director, Strategy and Policy, Joint Staff; and Brig. Gen.
Thomas E. Swain, USA, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Missions and Applications,
Office of the Assistant Secretary, Special Operations/Low Intensity Conflict;
G. Clay Hollister, Deputy Associate Director, Response and Recovery, FEMA;
Robert Blitzer, Acting Section D182Chief, Domestic Terrorism, FBI, Department
of Fire and Rescue Services, State of Maryland. 

                                          [Page: D182]

EFFECTIVE DEATH PENALTY AND PUBLIC SAFETY ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a modified closed rule on H.R.
2703, the Effective Death Penalty and Public Safety Act of 1996, providing one
hour of general debate divided equally between the chairman and ranking
minority member of the Committee on the Judiciary. The rule provides for the
consideration of only those amendments printed in the report of the Committee
on Rules, which shall be considered only in the order printed in the report,
may be offered only by a Member designated in the report, shall be considered
as read, shall be debatable for the time specified in the report equally
divided and controlled by the proponent and an opponent, shall not be subject
to amendment, and shall not be subject to a demand for a division of the
question in the House or in the Committee of the Whole. The rule waives all
points of order against the amendments printed in the report. The rule allows
the Chairman of the Committee of the Whole to postpone votes during
consideration of the bill, and allows the Chairman of the Committee of the
Whole to reduce votes to five minutes on a postponed question if the vote
follows a fifteen minute vote. The rule provides one motion to recommit, with
or without instructions. It shall be in order at any time for the Chairman of
the Committee on the Judiciary or a designee to offer amendments en bloc
consisting of amendments not previously disposed of which are printed in the
report of the Committee on Rules or germane modifications thereof. The rule
provides that amendments offered en bloc shall be considered as read (except
that modifications shall be reported), and shall be debatable for 20 minutes
equally divided between the chairman and ranking minority member of the
Committee on the Judiciary or their designee. The rule permits the original
proponent of an amendment included in an en bloc amendment to insert a
statement in the Congressional Record immediately prior to the disposition of
the amendments en bloc. The rule provides that after passage of H.R. 2703, it
shall be in order to take S. 735 from the Speaker's table and consider it in
the House. The rule allows for a motion to strike all after the enacting
clause of the Senate bill and insert the text of H.R. 2703 as passed by the
House. Finally, the rule provides that it shall be in order to move that the
House insist in its amendment(s) to S. 735 and request a conference. 

Testimony was heard from Representatives McCollum, Schiff, Bryant of
Tennessee, Barr, Burton of Indiana, Cunningham, Bachus, Bartlett of Maryland,
Horn, Istook, Manzullo, Quinn, Martini, Salmon, Conyers, Frank of
Massachusetts, Schumer, Nadler, Watt of North Carolina, Jackson-Lee, Markey,
Hoyer, Traficant, Skaggs, Slaughter, DeLauro, Hastings of Florida, and Stupak. 

OVERSIGHT--RAIL SAFETY

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Railroads
continued oversight hearings on Rail Safety: Equipment and FRA Regulatory
Procedures. Testimony was heard from Jolene Molitoris, Administrator, Federal
Railroad Administration, Department of Transportation; James E. Hall,
Chairman, National Transportation Safety Board; Dennis Sullivan, Chief
Operating Officer, National Railroad Passenger Corporation (AMTRAK); and
public witnesses. 

POVERTY CAUSES--OUT-OF-WEDLOCK BIRTHS

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Human Resources held a hearing on
the causes of poverty, with a focus on out-of-wedlock births. Testimony was
heard from Representatives Rangel, Talent, Hutchinson and Clayton; and public
witnesses. 

NRO FORWARDING FUND

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on NRO forward funding. Testimony was heard from departmental
witnesses. 



1996/03/13
Daily Digest - Wednesday, March 13, 1996;  pages D186 - D194

Committee Meetings

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
FDA, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Inspector General Overview.
Testimony was heard from Roger C. Viadero, Inspector General, USDA. 

INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior held a hearing on the
National Endowment for the Arts. Testimony was heard from Jane Alexander,
Chairman, National Endowment for the Arts, National Foundation on the Arts and
the Sciences. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on the following: the National Mediation Board;
the Railroad Retirement Board; the Armed Forces Retirement Home; the Physician
Payment Review Commission; and the Prospective Payment Assessment Commission.
Testimony was heard from Magdalena G. Jacobsen, Chairwoman, National Mediation
Board; Glen L. Bower, Chairman, Railroad Retirement Board; Dennis W. Jahnigan,
M.D., Chairman, Armed Forces Retirement Home; Gail R. Wilensky, Chair,
Physician Payment Review Commission; and Stuart Altman, Chairman, Prospective
Payment Assessment Commission. 

MILITARY CONSTRUCTION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction held a
hearing on the Navy. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of the Navy: Robert B. Pirie, Jr., Assistant Secretary
(Installations and Environment); RAdm. David J. Nash, USN, Civil Engineer
Corps, Commander, Naval Facilities Engineering Command; Brig. Gen. Thomas A.
Braaten, USMC, Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff, Installations and Logistics
(Facilities); and Capt. John F. Brunelli, USN, Executive Assistant, Director,
Naval Reserve. 

NATIONAL SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security met in an
executive session to hold a hearing on Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific
Command and the Commander in Chief, U.S. Forces Korea. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Defense: Adm. Joseph W.
Prueher, USN, Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Command; and Gen. Gary E. Luck,
USA, Commander, United Nations Command/Combined Forces Command/U.S. Forces
Korea. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation held a hearing on
Federal Railroad Administration and AMTRAK. Testimony was heard from Jolene M.
Molitoris, Administrator, Federal Railroad Administration, Department of
Transportation; and Thomas M. Downs, President and Chairman, Board D191of
Directors, National Railroad Passenger Corporation (AMTRAK). 

                                          [Page: D191]

RISK ASSESSMENT--BANKS

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Held a hearing on the Risk
Assessment of Banks. Testimony was heard from Rich Spillenkothen, Director,
Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation, Federal Reserve System; the
following officials of the Department of the Treasury: Eugene A. Ludwig,
Comptroller of the Currency; and Jonathan L. Flechter, Acting Director, Office
of Thrift Supervision; Ricki Helfer, Chairman, FDIC; Aida Alvarez, Director,
Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight, Department of Housing and
Urban Development; and public witnesses. 

GENERATIONAL ACCOUNTING

Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on Generational Accounting and
Long-term Fiscal Prospects. Testimony was heard from June E. O'Neill,
Director, CBO; Paul Posner, Director, Federal Budget Issues, GAO; and public
witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Commerce: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 2596, to
extend energy conservation programs under the Energy Policy and Conservation
Act through fiscal year 1999; H.R. 2967, amended, to extend the authorization
of the Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation Control Act of 1978; H.R. 2501,
amended, to extend the deadline under the Federal Power Act applicable to the
construction of a hydroelectric project in Kentucky; H.R. 2630, amended, to
extend the deadline for commencement of construction of a hydroelectric
project in the State of Illinois; H.R. 2695, amended, to extend the deadline
under the Federal Power Act applicable to the construction of certain
hydroelectric projects in the State of Pennsylvania; H.R.2773, amended, to
extend the deadline under the Federal Power Act applicable to the construction
of 2 hydroelectric projects in North Carolina; H.R. 2816, to reinstate the
license for, and extend the deadline under the Federal Power Act applicable to
the construction of, a hydroelectric project in Ohio; H.R. 2869, amended, to
extend the deadline for commencement of construction of a hydroelectric
project in the State of Kentucky; and H.R. 1663, amended, Waste Isolation
Pilot Land Withdrawal Amendment Act. 

U.S. POSTAL SERVICE

Committee on Governmental Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on the Postal
Service held on oversight hearing on the U.S. Postal Service. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the U.S. Postal Service: Tirso del
Junco, M.D., Chairman, Board of Governors; Marvin T. Runyon, Postmaster
General and CEO; and Kenneth J. Hunter, Inspector General and Chief Postal
Inspector, U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Edward J. Gleiman, Chairman, Postal
Rate Commission; and Michael E. Motley, Associate Director, Government
Business Operations Issues, GAO. 

ARMS TRANSFERS TO JORDAN

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on Arms Transfers to
Jordan. Testimony was heard from Peter Martinez, Director, Lebanon, Jordan,
Syria Affairs, Office of Near Eastern Affairs, Department of State; and the
following officials of the Department of Defense; Bruce Reidel, Deputy
Assistant Secretary, Near East and South Asia; and H. Diehl McKalip, Deputy
Director Defense Security Assistance Agency. 

The Committee also approved Budget Views and Estimates for submission to the
Committee on the Budget. 

RESOLUTIONS--HUMAN RIGHTS IN CAMBODIA; AND MILITARY STABILITY OF TAIWAN
STRAITS

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific
approved for full Committee action the following resolutions: H. Res. 345,
expressing concern about the deterioration of human rights in Cambodia; and H.
Con. Res. 148, amended, expressing the sense of the Congress that the United
States is committed to the military stability of the Taiwan Straits and United
States military forces should defend Taiwan in the event of invasion, missile
attack, or blockade by the People's Republic of China. 

SLAVERY IN MAURITANIA AND SUDAN

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Operations
and Human Rights and Subcommittee on Africa held a joint hearing on Slavery in
Mauritania and Sudan. Testimony was heard from William H. Twaddell, Deputy
Assistant Secretary, African Affairs, Department of State; former
Representative Mervyn M. Dymally of California; and public witnesses. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Continued hearings on fiscal year 1997
national defense authorization request. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Defense: Gen. Dennis J. Reimer, USA, Chief of
Staff, Army; Adm. J.M. Boorda, USN, Chief of Naval Operations; Gen. C.C.
Krulak, USMC, Commandant of the Marine Corps; and Gen. Ronald R. Fogelman,
USAF, Chief of Staff, Air Force. 

Hearings continue tomorrow. 

                                          [Page: D192]

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Installations and
Facilities began hearings on the fiscal year 1997 national defense
authorization request, with emphasis on the recapitalization and modernization
of facilities. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Defense: Maj. Gen. Frank Miller, USA, Deputy Chief of Staff,
Installation Management, Department of the Army; RAdm. Louis M. Smith, USN,
Director, Shore Activities Division, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations,
Department of the Navy; Brig. Gen. Thomas A. Braaten, USMC, Assistant Deputy
Chief of Staff, Installations and Logistics, U.S. Marine Corps; and Maj. Gen.
Eugene A. Lupia, USAF, Air Force Civil Engineer, Department of the Air Force. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 1823,
amended, to amend the Central Utah Project Completion Act to direct the
Secretary of the Interior to allow for prepayment of repayment contracts
between the United States and the Central Utah Water Conservancy District
dated December 28, 1965, and November 26, 1985; H.R. 2824, Snowbasin Land
Exchange Act of 1995; H.R. 1965, amended, to reauthorize the Coastal Zone
Management Act of 1972; H.R. 2160, amended, to authorize appropriations to
carry out the Interjurisdictional Fisheries Act of 1966 and the Anadromous
Fish Conservation Act; and H.R. 1527, amended, to amend the National Forest
Ski Area Permit Act of 1986 to clarify the authorities and duties of the
Secretary of Agriculture in issuing ski area permits on National Forest System
lands and to withdraw lands within ski area permit boundaries from the
operation of the mining and mineral leasing laws. 

The Committee began markup of H.R. 2107, Visitor Services Improvement and
Outdoor Legacy Act of 1995. 

Will continue March 28. 

The Committee also approved a motion to go to conference for all bills
previously reported. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 

AIRPORT IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation
continued hearings on the Airport Improvement Program, with emphasis on
Airport Needs. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 
 
Hearings continue tomorrow. 

URUGUAY ROUND AGREEMENTS IMPLEMENTATION AND WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Trade held a hearing on
implementation of Uruguay Round Agreements and World Trade Organization.
Testimony was heard from Michael Kantor, U.S. Trade Representative; JayEtta
Hecker, Associate Director, International Relations and Trade Issues, GAO;
Clayton K. Yeutter, former U.S. Trade Representative; and public witnesses. 



1996/03/14
Daily Digest - Thursday, March 14, 1996;  pages D196 - D206

Committee Meetings

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
FDA, and Related Agencies held a hearing on the Farm Credit Administration and
on the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Testimony was heard from Marsha
Martin, Chairman of the Board, Farm Credit Administration; and John Tull, Jr.,
Acting Chairman, Commodity Futures Trading Commission. 

INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior held a hearing on
Natural Resources. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the
U.S. Institute of Peace, the National Education Goals Panel and the NLRB.
Testimony was heard from Ambassador Richard W. Carlson, President and CEO,
Corporation for Public Broadcasting; Max M. Kampelman, Vice Chairman, Board of
Directors, U.S. Institute of Peace; Ken Nelson, Executive Director, National
Education Goals Panel; and William B. Gould, IV, Chairman, NLRB. 

MILITARY CONSTRUCTION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction continued
appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from congressional and public
witnesses. 

NATIONAL SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security met in
executive session to hold a hearing on Commander in Chief, Special Operations
Command and Commander in Chief, U.S. Central Command. Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the Department of Defense: Gen. Henry H. Shelton,
USA, Commander in Chief, Special Operations Command; and Gen. Binford J.J.
Peay, III, USA, Commander in Chief, U.S. European Command. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation held a hearing on
the Office of the Secretary. Testimony was heard from Mortimer L. Downey,
Deputy Secretary, Department of Transportation. 

TREASURY, POSTAL SERVICE APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Treasury, Postal Service, and
General Government held a hearing on tax systems modernization and on IRS
operations. Testimony was heard from the following D203officials of the
Department of the Treasury: Larry Summers, Deputy Secretary; and Margaret
Milner Richardson, Commissioner, IRS. 

                                          [Page: D203]

HEALTH COVERAGE AVAILABILITY AND AFFORDABILITY ACT

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Health and Environment approved for
full Committee action H.R. 3070, Health Coverage Availability and
Affordability Act. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Ordered reported the
following bills: H.R. 2570, amended, Older Americans Amendments of 1995; H.R.
3055, to amend section 326 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to permit
continued participation by Historically Black Graduate Professional Schools in
the grant program authorized by that section; and H.R. 3049, to amend section
1505 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to provide for the continuity of the
Board of Trustees of the Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native
Culture and Arts Development. 

LOCAL EMPOWERMENT AND FLEXIBILITY ACT

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Human Resources
and Intergovernmental Relations approved for full Committee action H.R. 2086,
Local Empowerment and Flexibility Act of 1995. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on International Relations: Ordered reported the following
resolutions: H. Res. 345, expressing concern about the deterioration of human
rights in Cambodia; H. Res. 379, expressing the sense of the House of
Representatives concerning the eighth anniversary of the massacre of over
5,000 Kurds as a result of a gas bomb attack by the Iraqi Government; H. Con.
Res. 102, concerning the emancipation of the Iranian Baha'i community; H.J.
Res. 158, to recognize the Peace Corps on the occasion of its 35th anniversary
and the Americans who have served as Peace Corps volunteers; and H. Con. Res.
148, amended, expressing the sense of the Congress that the United States is
committed to the military stability of the Taiwan Strait and United States
military forces should defend Taiwan in the event of invasion, missile attack
or blockade by the People's Republic of China. 

CRISIS IN THE TAIWAN STRAIT

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific
held a hearing on Crisis in the Taiwan Strait: Implications for U.S. Foreign
Policy. Testimony was heard from Winston Lord, Assistant Secretary, East Asian
and Pacific Affairs, Department of State; Kurt Campbell, Deputy Assistant
Secretary, East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Department of Defense; and public
witnesses. 

FEDERAL COURTS IMPROVEMENT ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Courts and Intellectual Property
held a hearing on H.R. 1989, Federal Courts Improvement Act of 1995. Testimony
was heard from Stephen H. Anderson, Judge, Salt Lake City, Utah; Emmett R.
Cox, Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals, 11th Circuit; Barefoot Sanders, Chief
Judge, U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas; Earl W. Britt, Judge,
U.S. District Court, Eastern District of North Carolina; and a public witness. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Continued hearings on fiscal year 1997
national defense authorization request, with emphasis on the ABM Treaty and
its relationship to national and theater missile defense programs. Testimony
was heard from R. James Woolsey, former Director, CIA; Richard N. Perle,
former Assistant Secretary, International Security Policy, Department of
Defense; and Michael Krepon, President, Henry L. Stimson Center. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans
approved for full Committee action the following bills: H.R. 1772, amended, to
authorize the Secretary of the Interior to acquire certain interests in the
Waihee Marsh for inclusion in the Oahu National Wildlife Refuge Complex; H.R.
1836, to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to acquire property in the
town of East Hampton, Suffolk County, New York, for inclusion in the
Amagansett National Wildlife Refuge; H.R. 2660, to increase the amount
authorized to be appropriated to the Department of the Interior for the Tensas
River National Wildlife Refuge; and H.R. 2679, to revise the boundary of the
North Platte National Wildlife Refuge. 
 
IMMIGRATION IN THE NATIONAL INTEREST ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a modified closed rule providing 2
hours of debate on H.R. 2202, Immigration in the National Interest Act of
1995. The rule waives all points of order except those arising under section
425(a) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 (unfunded mandates) against
consideration of the bill. The rule makes in order the Committee on the
Judiciary amendment in the nature of a substitute now printed in the bill,
D204as modified by the amendment printed in part 1 of the report of the
Committee on Rules accompanying this resolution. The rule provides that the
amendment in the nature of a substitute, as modified, shall be considered as
read. 

                                          [Page: D204]

The rule provides for the consideration of the amendments printed in the
report of the Committee on Rules, which shall be considered only in the order
printed in the report, may be offered only by a Member designated in the
report, shall be considered as read, shall be debatable for the time specified
in the report equally divided and controlled by the proponent and opponent,
shall not be subject to amendment, and shall not be subject to a demand for a
division of the question in the House or in the Committee of the Whole. The
rule waives all points of order against the amendments referenced in the
report of the Committee on Rules except those arising under section 425(a) of
the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 (unfunded mandates). 

The rule allows the Chairman of the Committee of the Whole to postpone votes
during consideration of the bill, and allows the Chairman of the Committee of
the Whole to reduce to five minutes a postponed question if the vote follows a
fifteen minute vote. The rule provides that a separate vote may be demanded in
the House on any amendment adopted to the committee amendment in the nature of
a substitute. The rule provides one motion to recommit, with or without
instructions. 

The rule further provides that it shall be in order at any time for the
Chairman of the Committee on the Judiciary or a designee to offer amendments
en bloc consisting of amendments not previously disposed of which are printed
in the report of the Committee on Rules or germane modifications thereof,
which may include a perfecting amendment to text proposed to be stricken by
such an amendment. Amendments offered en bloc shall be considered as read
(except that modifications shall be reported) and shall be debatable for 20
minutes equally divided between the chairman and ranking minority member of
the Committee on the Judiciary or their designees. The original proponent of
an amendment included in an en bloc amendment is permitted to insert a
statement in the Congressional Record immediately prior to the disposition of
the amendment en bloc. Testimony was heard from Representatives Hyde,
McCollum, Smith of Texas, Schiff, Gallegly, Canady of Florida, Goodlatte,
Bryant of Tennessee, Chabot, Chrysler, Campbell, Tate, Archer, Shaw, Bunning,
Camp, Doolittle, Pombo, Chambliss, Smith of New Jersey, Dreier, Rohrabacher,
Deal of Georgia, Kim, Kingston, Bilbray, Brownback, Waldholtz, Conyers,
Schumer, Berman, Bryant of Texas, Scott, Becerra, Jackson-Lee of Texas, Vento,
Gutierrez, Roybal-Allard, Velazquez, Abercrombie, Cardin, Kleczka, Condit,
Farr of California, Obey, Beilenson, Richardson, Traficant, and Filner. 

ENERGY--OUTLOOK AND IMPLICATIONS

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment held a hearing on
U.S. Energy Outlook and Implications for Energy R&D. Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the Department of Energy: Jay E. Hakes,
Administrator, Energy Information Administration; and Joseph J. Romm, Acting
Deputy Assistant Secretary, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy; and public
witnesses. 

AIRPORT IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation
continued hearings on the Airport Improvement Program, with emphasis on
airport needs. Testimony was heard from Gerald L. Dillingham, Associate
Director, Transportation Issues/Resources, Community, and Economic Development
Division, GAO; Frederick H. Vogt, Director, Aeronautics Division, Department
of Transportation, State of Tennessee; William L. Blake, Director, Division of
Aeronautics, Department of Transportation, State of Illinois; Willard G.
Plentl, Jr., Director of Aviation, Division of Aviation, Department of
Transportation, State of North Carolina; and public witnesses. 

Hearings continue March 20. 

BUDGET VIEWS AND ESTIMATES

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Approved Budget Views and Estimates for
submission to the Committee on the Budget. 

UNITED STATES-ISRAEL FREE TRADE AREA IMPLEMENTATION ACT AMENDMENTS; BUDGET
VIEWS AND ESTIMATES

Committee on Ways and Means: Ordered reported H.R. 3074, to amend the United
States-Israel Free Trade Area Implementation Act of 1985 to provide the
President with additional proclamation authority with respect to articles of
the West Bank or Gaza Strip or a qualifying industrial zone. 

The Committee also approved Budget Views and Estimates for submission to the
Committee on the Budget. 



1996/03/15
Daily Digest - Friday, March 15, 1996;  pages D208 - D216

Committee Meetings

No Committee meetings were held. 



1996/03/18
Daily Digest - Monday, March 18, 1996;  pages D217 - D222

Committee Meetings 

No committee meetings were held. 



1996/03/19
Daily Digest - Tuesday, March 19, 1996;  pages D224 - D232

Committee Meetings

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
FDA, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Marketing and Regulatory Programs.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the USDA: Michael Dunn,
Assistant Secretary, Marketing and Regulatory Programs; Lon S. Hatamlya,
Administrator, Agricultural Marketing Service; Lonnie J. King, Administrator,
Animal Plant Health and Inspection Service; and James R. Baker, Administrator,
Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration. 

NATIONAL SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security met in
executive session to hold a hearing on Commander in Chief, U.S. European
Command. Testimony was heard from Gen. George A. Joulwan, USA, Commander in
Chief, U.S. European Command. 

BANK INSURANCE AND THE SAVINGS ASSOCIATION INSURANCE FUND

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Held a hearing on issues relating
to the Bank Insurance Fund and the Savings Association Insurance Fund.
Testimony was heard from Alan Greenspan, Chairman, Board of Governors, Federal
Reserve System; the following officials of the Department of the Treasury:
John Hawke, Jr., Under Secretary, Domestic Finance; and Jonathan Fiechter,
Acting Director, Office of Thrift Supervision; Ricki Helfer, Chairman, FDIC;
and public witnesses. 

AMERICORPS

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on Oversight
and Investigations held a hearing on Americorps. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Corporation for National and Community Service:
Harris Wofford, CEO; and Luise Jordan, Inspector General; and public
witnesses. 

D.C. FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND MANAGEMENT ASSISTANCE ACT IMPLEMENTATION

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on the District of
Columbia held a hearing on the Implementation of Public Law 104-8, District of
Columbia Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Act of 1995.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the District of Columbia:
Andrew Brimmer, Chairman; Joyce Ladner; Constance Newman, Steve Harlan and Ed
Singletary, Board Members, all with the Financial Responsibility and
Management Assistance Authority; Marion Barry, Mayor; and David A. Clarke,
Chairman, Council. 

Hearings continue March 28. 

UNITED STATES-NORTH KOREAN RELATIONS

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific
held a hearing on United States-North Korean Relations: From the Agreed
Framework to Food Aid. Testimony was heard from Winston Lord, Assistant
Secretary, East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Department of State; Stanley Roth,
Director, Research and Studies, United States Institute of Peace; and public
witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D230]

ROGUE REGIMES

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Operations
and Human Rights held a hearing on Attempts by Rogue Regimes to Influence U.S.
Policy. Testimony was heard from Representative Barr; and public witnesses. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Installations and
Facilities held a hearing on fiscal year 1997 national defense authorization,
with emphasis on the military construction budget request. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Defense: Robert E. Bayer,
Deputy Assistant Secretary, Installations; Paul Johnson, Deputy Assistant
Secretary, Installations and Housing; Maj. Gen. Frank L. Miller, Jr., USA,
Assistant Chief of Staff, Installation Management; Maj. Gen. William A. Navas,
Jr., USA, Director, Army National Guard; and Brig. Gen. James Helmly, USA,
Deputy Chief, Army Reserve, all with the Department of the Army. 

Hearings continue March 21. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Procurement and the
Subcommittee on Military Research and Development continued joint hearings on
the fiscal year 1997 national defense authorization, with emphasis on the Army
modernization request. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of the Army: Gilbert F. Decker, Assistant Secretary, Research,
Development and Acquisition; and Lt. Gen. Ronald V. Hite, USA, Military Deputy
to the Assistant Secretary, Research, Development and Acquisition. 

Hearings continue March 22. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Readiness held a
hearing on the fiscal year 1997 national defense authorization, with emphasis
on force readiness. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Defense: Lt. Gen. Paul Blackwell, USA, Deputy Chief of Staff,
Operations and Plans, Department of the Army; VAdm. Thomas J. Lopez, USN,
Deputy Chief of Naval Operations, Resources, Warfare Requirements and
Assessments, Department of the Navy; Lt. Gen. Arthur C. Blades, USMC, Deputy
Chief of Staff, Plans, Policies and Operations, U.S. Marine Corps; Lt. Gen.
Ralph E. Eberhart, USAF, Deputy Chief of Staff, Plans and Operations,
Department of the Air Force; Maj. Gen. Clinton V. Horn, USAF, Director of
Operations, U.S. Special Operations Command; and Maj. Gen, William J. Begert,
USAF, Director, Operations and Logistics, U.S. Transportation Command. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Held a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 2505, to
amend the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act to make certain clarifications
to the land bank protection provisions; and H.R. 1786, to regulate fishing in
certain waters of Alaska. Testimony was heard from Deborah L. Williams,
Special Assistant to the Secretary for Alaska, Department of the Interior; and
public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Water and Power Resources held an
oversight hearing on Western Area Power Administration Construction and
Maintenance Activities and Bureau of Reclamation Power Facilities Management.
Testimony was heard from J.M. Shafer, Administrator, Western Area Power
Administration, Department of Energy; Patricia J. Beneke, Assistant Secretary,
Water and Science, Department of the Interior; Janet Frasier-Rogers, Chairman,
Colorado River Commission; and a public witness. 

NSF'S PARTNERSHIP FOR ADVANCED COMPUTATION INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Basic Research held a hearing on NSF's
Partnership for Advanced Computational Infrastructure Program. Testimony was
heard from Paul Young, Assistant Director for Computer and Information Science
and Engineering, NSF; Edward Hayes, Chairman, Report on the Task Force on the
Future of NSF Supercomputing Centers Program; and public witnesses. 

HEALTH COVERAGE AVAILABILITY AND AFFORDABILITY ACT

Committee on Ways and Means: Ordered reported amended H.R. 3103, Health
Coverage Availability and Affordability Act of 1996. 

COLLECTION

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Collection. Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses. 



1996/03/20
Daily Digest - Wednesday, March 20, 1996;  pages D234 - D242

Committee Meetings

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Research,
Education and Economics. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the USDA: Karl N. Stauber, Under Secretary, Research, Education, and
Economics; Floyd P. Horn, Administrator, Agricultural Research Service; Robert
H. Robinson, Administrator, Cooperative, State, Research, Education and
Extension Service; Susan Offutt, Administrator, Economic Research Service; and
Don Bay, Administrator, National Agricultural Statistics Service. 

INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior held a hearing on the
Geological Survey and on the National Park Service. Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the Department of the Interior: Gordon B. Eaton,
Director, U.S. Geological Survey; George T. Frampton, Jr., Assistant
Secretary, Fish, Wildlife, and Parks; Roger G. Kennedy, Director; John J.
Reynolds, Deputy Director; and C. Bruce Sheaffer, Comptroller, all with the
National Park Service. 

NATIONAL SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security held a hearing
on fiscal year 1997 Navy/Marine Corps Posture and Navy/Marine Corps
Acquisition Programs. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of the Navy: John H. Dalton, Secretary; John W. Douglass, Assistant
Secretary; Adm. Jeremy M. Boorda, USN, Chief of Naval Operations; VAdm. T.
Joseph Lopez, USN, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations; Gen. Charles C. Krulak,
USMC, Commandant, Marine Corps; and Maj. Gen. J.W. Oster, USMC, Deputy Chief
of Staff, Programs and Resources. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation held a hearing on
Federal Highway Administration. Testimony was heard from Rodney Slater,
Administrator, Federal Highway Administration. Department of Transportation. 

                                          [Page: D239]

VA, HUD AND INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on VA, HUD and Independent Agencies
held a hearing on NASA. Testimony was heard from Daniel S. Goldin,
Administrator, NASA. 

DEVELOPMENTS IN BANKING IN CHINA, HONG KONG AND TAIWAN

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Held a hearing on Recent
Developments in Banking and Finance in the People's Republic of China, Hong
Kong, and Taiwan. Testimony was heard from David Lipton, Assistant Secretary,
International Affairs, Department of the Treasury; and public witnesses. 

HEALTH COVERAGE AVAILABILITY AND AFFORDABILITY ACT OF 1996

Committee on Commerce: Ordered reported amended H.R. 3070, Health Coverage
Availability and Affordability Act of 1996. 

SECURITY CHALLENGES POSED BY CHINA

Committee on National Security: Held a hearing on security challenges posed by
China. Testimony was heard from Arthur N. Waldron, Professor, Strategy and
Policy, U.S. Naval War College; and public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT--ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT OF 1973

Committee on Resources: Held an oversight hearing on the Implementation and
Administration of the Endangered Species Act of 1973. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands held
an oversight hearing on Historic Preservation and a hearing on the following
bills: H.R. 563, to amend the National Historic Preservation Act to prohibit
the inclusion of certain sites on the National Register of Historic Places;
H.R. 1179, Historical Black Colleges and University Historic Building
Restoration and Preservation Act; and H.R. 3031, to amend the Act of October
15, 1966 (80 Stat. 915), as amended, establishing a program for the
preservation of additional historic property throughout the Nation. Testimony
was heard from Representatives Dunn, Herger, and Clement; Gray F. Reynolds,
Deputy Chief, Forest Service, USDA; Edward M. Norton, Jr., Vice President,
Public Policy, National Trust for Historic Preservation; Wilson Martin,
Deputy, Historic Preservation Officer, State of Utah; Kathleen S. Kilpatrick,
Deputy Director, Department of Historic Resources, State of Virginia; and
public witnesses. 

FURTHER CONTINUING APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a closed rule providing for
consideration in the House of H.J. Res. 165, making further continuing
appropriations for the fiscal year 1996, with 1 hour of debate equally divided
between the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on
Appropriations. The rule provides for ordering the previous question to final
passage without intervening motion except one motion to recommit which, if
containing instructions, may only be offered by the Minority Leader or his
designee. The rule waives clause 4(b) of rule XI (requiring a \2/3\ vote to
consider a rule on the same day it is reported from the Committee on Rules)
against certain resolutions reported by the Rules Committee before April 1, 
1996. The waiver applies to special rules providing for consideration or
disposition of any measures, amendments thereto, conference reports thereon,
or amendments reported in disagreement from a conference that: (1) make
general appropriations for the fiscal year 1996; (2) include provisions making
further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 1996; or (3) include
provisions increasing or waiving the public debt limit. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business.  

AIRPORT IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation
concluded hearings on the airport improvement program, with emphasis on FAA
views and miscellaneous issues. Testimony was heard from Representatives
Traficant, Shays, and Cremeans; David Hinson, Administrator, FAA, Department
of Transportation; and public witnesses. 

GSA COURTHOUSE CONSTRUCTION PROGRAM

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Public
Buildings and Economic Development held a hearing on GSA Courthouse
Construction Program. Testimony was heard from David Barram, Acting
Administrator, GSA; and Robert C. Cowen, Chairman, Committee on Security,
Space, and Facilities, Judicial Conference of the United States. 

REPLACING THE FEDERAL INCOME TAX

Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing on Replacing the Federal Income
Tax. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D240]

PROCESSING/EXPLOITATION

Permenent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Processing/Exploitation. Testimony was heard from departmental
witnesses. 



1996/03/21
Daily Digest - Thursday, March 21, 1996;  pages D243 - D252

Committee Meetings

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, on Food Safety and on the
Secretary of Agriculture. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the USDA: Dan Glickman, Secretary; and Michael Taylor, Acting Under Secretary,
Food Safety and Inspection Service. 

ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development held
a hearing on the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works and Chief of
Engineers. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of the Army: H. Martin Lancaster, Assistant Secretary, Civil Works; and Lt.
Gen. Arthur E. Williams, USA, Chief of Engineers. 

FOREIGN OPERATIONS, EXPORT FINANCING AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Foreign Operations, Export
Financing and Related Programs held a hearing on Haiti. Testimony was heard
from Alexander Watson, Assistant Secretary, Inter-American Affairs, Department
of State. 

NATIONAL SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security met in
executive session to hold a hearing on National Foreign Intelligence Program.
Testimony was heard from John M. Deutch, Director, CIA.   

The subcommittee also held a hearing on Ballistic Missile Defense. Testimony
was heard from Lt. Gen. Malcolm R. O'Neill, USA, Director, Ballistic Missile
Defense, Department of Defense. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation held a hearing on
the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Testimony was heard from
Ricardo Martinez, Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration, Department of Transportation. 

OVERSIGHT--BUREAU OF ENGRAVING AND PRINTING; AND THE U.S. MINT

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Domestic and
International Monetary Policy oversight hearing on the Bureau of Engraving and
Printing; and the U.S. Mint. Testimony was heard from the following officials
of the Department of the Treasury: Larry Rolufs, Director, Bureau of Engraving
and Printing; and Philip Diehl, Director, U.S. Mint. 

ADMINISTRATION'S BUDGET SUBMISSION

Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on the Administration's fiscal year
1997 budget submission. Testimony was heard from Alice M. Rivlin, Director,
OMB. 

MERCURY-CONTAINING AND RECHARGEABLE BATTERY MANAGEMENT ACT

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Hazardous
Materials held a hearing on H.R. 2024 and S. 619, Mercury-Containing and
Rechargeable Battery Management Act. Testimony was heard from Michael Shapiro,
Director, Office of Solid Waste, EPA; and public witnesses. 

FEDERAL MANAGEMENT OF THE RADIO SPECTRUM

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Finance held a
hearing on Federal Management of the Radio Spectrum, with emphasis on Advanced
Television Spectrum. Testimony was heard from Representative Frank of
Massachusetts; Larry Irving, Assistant Secretary, Communications and
Information, Department of Commerce; Robert M. Pepper, Chief, Office of Plans
and Policy, FCC; David Moore, Senior Analyst, Natural Resources and Commerce
Division, CBO; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Ordered reported amended
the following bills: H.R. 1227, to amend the Portal-to-Portal Act of 1947
relating to the payment of wages to employees who use employer-owned vehicles;
and H.R. 2531, to amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to clarify the
exemption for houseparents from the minimum wage and maximum hours
requirements of that Act. 

                                          [Page: D249]

CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM

Committee on House Oversight: Held a hearing on Campaign-Finance Reform, with
emphasis on Influencing Elections: Political Activity of Labor Unions.
Testimony was heard from Tom Durbin and Paige Whitaker, Legislative Attorneys,
American Law Division, Congressional Research Service, Library of Congress;
and public witnesses. 

IRAN OIL SANCTIONS ACT

Committee on International Relations: Ordered reported amended H.R. 3107, Iran
Oil Sanctions Act of 1996.  

NICARAGUA--CURRENT ISSUES

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere
held a hearing to review current issues in Nicaragua. Testimony was heard from
Representative Diaz-Balart; John Hamilton, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Central
America, Department of State; Mark L. Schneider, Assistant Administrator,
Latin America and the Caribbean, AID, U.S. International Development
Cooperation Agency; and a public witness. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution held an oversight
hearing on Fetal Death or Dangerous Deception? The Effects of Anesthesia
During a Partial-Birth Abortion. Testimony was heard from Representative
Coburn; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime approved for full Committee
action the following bills: H.R. 2092, Private Security Officer Quality
Assurance Act of 1995; H.R. 2137, amended, Megan's Law; H.R. 2453, amended,
Fugitive Detention Act of 1995; H.R. 2641, amended, United States Marshals
Service Improvement Act of 1995; H.R. 2803, Anti-Car Theft Improvements Act of
1995; H.R. 2974, amended, Crimes Against Children and Elderly Persons
Punishment and Prevention Act of 1995; H.R. 2980, amended, Interstate Stalking
Punishment and Prevention Act of 1996; H.R. 2996, amended, Law Enforcement and
Industrial Security Cooperation Act of 1996; and H.R. 3120, to amend title 18,
United States Code, with respect to witness retaliation, witness tampering and
jury tampering. 

NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Installations and
Facilities continued hearings on national defense authorization, with emphasis
on the military construction budget request. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of the Navy: Robert B. Pirie, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Installations and Environment; RAdm. David J. Nash, USN,
Commander, Facilities Engineering Command; RAdm. G. Dennis Vaughn, USN, Deputy
Director, Naval Reserve; and Brig. Gen. Thomas A. Braaten, USMC, Assistant
Deputy Chief of Staff, Installations and Logistics, Marine Corps; the
following officials of the Department of the Air Force: Jimmy G. Dishner,
Deputy Assistant Secretary, Installations; Maj. Gen. Eugene A. Lupia, USAF,
Civil Engineer; Brig. Gen. Paul A. Weaver, USAF, Deputy Director, Air National
Guard; and Brig. Gen. John A. Bradley, USAF, Deputy to the Chief, Air Force
Reserve. 

RESERVE FORCES REVITALIZATION ACT

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Personnel held a
hearing on H.R. 1646, Reserve Forces Revitalization Act of 1995. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense: Deborah R.
Lee, Assistant Secretary, Reserve Affairs; Gen. Joseph W. Ralston, USAF, Vice
Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff; Gen. Ronald H. Griffith, USA, Vice Chief of
Staff, Army; Adm. Jay L. Johnson, USN, Vice Chief, Naval Operations; Gen.
Richard D. Hearney, USMC, Assistant Commandant, Marine Corps; Gen. Thomas S.
Moorman, Jr., USAF, Vice Chief of Staff, Air Force; and public witnesses. 

NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Procurement and
Subcommittee on Military Readiness held a joint hearing on national defense
authorization, with emphasis on Department of Defense and Department of Energy
environmental programs. Testimony was heard from Thomas B. Grumbly, Acting
Under Secretary, Department of Energy; Sherry W. Goodman, Deputy Under
Secretary, Environmental Security, Department of Defense; Victor S. Rezendes,
Director, Energy, Resources, and Science Issues, GAO; Cindy Williams,
Assistant Director, National Security Division, CBO; Jay C. Davis, Associate
Director, Environmental Programs, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory; and
public witnesses.  

Hearings continue March 29. 

NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Research and
Development continued hearings on national defense authorization, with
emphasis on ballistic missile defense. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Defense: D250Kent Stansbury, Deputy Director,
Arms Control Implementation and Compliance; Franklin Miller, Principal Deputy
Assistant Secretary, International Security Police; and Lt. Gen. Malcolm
O`Neill, USA, Director, Ballistic Missile Defense Organization; and public
witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D250]

OVERSIGHT--ENERGY POLICY

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources continued
oversight hearings on energy policy. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Energy: Kyle Simpson, Associate Deputy
Secretary, Energy Programs; and David F. Morehouse, Senior Petroleum
Geologist, Energy Information Administration; the following officials of the
Department of the Interior: Michael Dombeck, Acting Director, Bureau of Land
Management; David W. Houseknecht, Program Director for Energy, U.S. Geological
Survey; and Thomas Readinger, Deputy Associate Director, Resources and
Environmental Management, Minerals Management Service; and public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT--MARINE SANCTUARIES ACT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans held an
oversight hearing on Marine Sanctuaries Act. Testimony was heard from
Representative Deutsch; Jeffrey Benoit, Director, Office of Ocean and Coastal
Resource Management, NOAA, Department of Commerce; and public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT--FEDERAL LANDS AND REGULATION OF PRIVATE PROPERTY

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands held
an oversight hearing on Federal lands and Federal regulation of private
property. Testimony was heard from Barry Hill, Associate Director, Energy
Resources and Science Issues, GAO; and public witnesses. 

GUN CRIME ENFORCEMENT AND SECOND AMENDMENT RESTORATION ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a closed rule on H.R. 125, Gun
Crime Enforcement and Second Amendment Restoration Act of 1996. The rule
provides that the amendment printed in the report of the Committee on Rules is
considered as adopted. The rule provides for consideration in the House with 1
hour of debate equally divided between Rep. Chapman of Texas or Rep. Barr of
Georgia, and Rep. Conyers of Michigan or his designee. The previous question
is ordered to final passage without intervening motion except one motion to
recommit which, if containing instructions, may only be offered by the
Minority Leader or his designee. Testimony was heard from Representatives
Barr, Heineman, Shays, Horn, Christensen, Neumann, Stockman, Conyers, Schumer,
Jackson-Lee, and Chapman. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment held a hearing on
the fiscal year 1997 budget requests for the following: Department of Energy;
EPA and NOAA; and Safe Drinking Water Act reauthorization. Testimony was heard
from Joseph F. Vivona, Chief Financial Officer, Department of Energy; D. James
Baker, Administrator, NOAA and Under Secretary, Oceans and Atmosphere,
Department of Commerce; Robert J. Huggert, Assistant Administrator, Office of
Research and Development, EPA; and a public witness. 

SBA BUDGET

Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing on the U.S. Small Business
Administration Fiscal Year 1997 Budget. Testimony was heard from Philip Lader,
Administrator, SBA; and public witnesses. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 

ADMINISTRATION'S BUDGET--IMPACT HIGHWAY AND AVIATION TRUST FUNDS

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Held a hearing to determine
the impact of the Administration's Budget on the highway and aviation trust
funds. Testimony was heard from a public witness. 

WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Water
Resources and Environment continued hearings on the Water Resources
Development Act of 1996. Testimony was heard from Representatives Doolittle,
Fazio, Matsui, Pombo, Norton, Moran, Hamilton, Miller of California, Tauzin,
Hoyer, Coyne, Lipinski, Flanagan, Ortiz, Visclosky, Dornan, Kim, Pallone,
Whitfield, Gilchrest, Pastor, Franks of New Jersey, Baker of California,
Kingston, Farr, Woolsey, Lincoln, Stupak, Dickey, Seastrand, English of
Pennsylvania, Riggs, Weldon of Florida, Bentsen, Ward, LoBiondo, Lofgren,
Buyer, and Gene Green of Texas; John H. Zirschky, Principal Deputy to the
Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works), Department of the Army; and
public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Hospitals and Health Care held
an oversight hearing on VA Medical Care and Construction Priorities for Fiscal
Year 1997. Testimony was heard from Kenneth Kizer, M.D., Under Secretary,
Health, Veterans D251Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs. 

                                          [Page: D251]

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES 

Committee on Ways and Means: Ordered reported amended the following bills:
H.R. 2754, Shipbuilding Trade Agreement Act; and H.R. 2337, Taxpayer Bill of
Rights 2. 

AERIAL RECONNAISSANCE 

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Subcommittee on Technical and
Tactical Intelligence met in executive session hearing on Aerial
Reconnaissance. Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses. 



1996/03/22
Daily Digest - Friday, March 22, 1996;  pages D254 - D260

Committee Meetings

ADMINISTRATION'S BUDGET SUBMISSION

Committee on the Budget: Continued hearings on the Administration's fiscal
year 1997 budget submission. Testimony was heard from Members of Congress. 

OVERSIGHT--DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY'S PROPOSED BUDGET

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Power held an oversight
hearing on the Department of Energy's Proposed Budget for Fiscal Year 1997.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Energy:
Thomas P. Grumbly, Acting Under Secretary; Kyle Simpson, Associate Deputy
Secretary, Energy Programs; Joseph Vivona, Chief Financial Officer; Dan
Dreyfus, Director, Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management; and Joe
Romm, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Energy Efficiency and Renewable
Energy. 

STATISTICAL CONSOLIDATION ACT OF 1995

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information, and Technology held a hearing on H.R. 2521,
Statistical Consolidation Act of 1995. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Commerce: Everett M. Ehrlich, Under Secretary,
Economic Affairs; and Martha Farnsworth Riche, Director, Bureau of the Census;
Katharine Abraham, Commissioner, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Department of
Labor; Sally Katzen, Administrator, Office of Information and Regulatory
Affairs, OMB; L. Nye Stevens, Director, Federal Management and Workforce
Issues, General Government Division, GAO; and public witnesses. 

UNFUNDED MANDATES REFORM ACT OF 1995: 1 YEAR REVIEW

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Human Resources
and Intergovernmental Relations held a hearing on Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
of 1995: A One Year Review. Testimony was heard from Representatives Portman
and Talent; Sally Katzen, Administrator, Office of Information and Regulatory
Affairs, OMB; Shelly H. Metzenbaum, Associate Administrator, Office of
Regional Operations and State/Local Relations, EPA; Bernard Anderson,
Assistant Secretary, Employment Standards, Department of Labor; Jamienne
Studley, Deputy General Counsel, Department of Education; Vincent F. Callahan,
Jr., member, House of Delegates, State of Virginia; and public witnesses. 

OMNIBUS EXPORT ADMINISTRATION ACT OF 1995

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Economic
Policy and Trade approved for full Committee action amended H.R. 361, Omnibus
Export Administration Act of 1995. 

OVERSIGHT--ETHICS IN GOVERNMENT AND LOBBY REFORM PROPOSALS 

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution held an oversight
hearing on ethics in government and lobbying reform proposals. Testimony was
heard from Representatives Flanagan, Upton, Kaptur, English of Pennsylvania,
Zimmer, DeFazio, Fox, and Traficant; and public witnesses. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Procurement and the
Subcommittee on Military Research and Development continued joint hearings on
fiscal year 1997 national defense authorization, with emphasis on the Air
Force modernization request. Testimony was heard from the following officials
of the Department of the Air Force: Arthur L. Money, Assistant Secretary,
Acquisition; and Lt. Gen. George K. Muellner, USAF, Principal Deputy to the
Assistant Secretary, Acquisition. 

Hearings continue March 29. 

PARTIAL-BIRTH ABORTION BAN ACT--DISPOSITION OF SENATE AMENDMENTS

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a rule providing that it shall be
in order to take the bill H.R. 1833, Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 1995,
from the Speaker's table and consider it in the House, with the Senate
amendments thereto. The rule provides for a single motion to concur in each of
the Senate amendments. The Senate amendments and the motion shall be
considered as read and shall be debatable for 1 hour equally divided and
controlled by the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on the
Judiciary. Finally, the rule provides that the previous question shall be
considered as ordered on the motion to final adoption without intervening
motion or a demand for a division of the question. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Canady of Florida, Frank of Massachusetts, Schroeder and
Lowey. 

                                          [Page: D256]

NSF AUTHORIZATION

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Basic Research held a hearing on fiscal
year 1997 NSF authorization. Testimony was heard from Neal F. Lane, Director,
NSF. 



1996/03/25
Daily Digest - Monday, March 25, 1996;  pages D261 - D264

Committee Meetings

No committee meetings were held. 



1996/03/26
Daily Digest - Tuesday, March 26, 1996;  pages D265 - D270

Committee Meetings

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Food,
Nutrition and Consumer Services. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the USDA: Ellen Haas, Under Secretary, Food, Nutrition Policy and
Consumer Services; Eileen Kennedy, Director, Center for Nutrition Policy and
Promotion; and William Ludwig, Administrator, Food and Consumer Service. 

ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water held a hearing
on Department of Energy and Environmental Management and Nuclear Waste
D268Issues. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of Energy: Adm. Richard Guimond, USN, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary,
Environmental Management; and Daniel A. Dreyfuss, Director, Office of Civilian
Radioactive Waste Management. 

                                          [Page: D268]

INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior held a hearing on the
Bureau of Indian Affairs and on the Indian Health Service. Testimony was heard
from Ada E. Deer, Assistant Secretary, Indian Affairs, Department of the
Interior; and Michael H. Trujillo, M.D., Assistant Surgeon General, Director,
Indian Health Service, Department of Health and Human Services. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation held a hearing on
Research and Special Programs Administration. Testimony was heard from
Dharmendia K. Sharma, Administrator, Research and Special Programs
Administration, Department of Transportation. 

HUMAN RIGHTS PRACTICES--COUNTRY REPORTS

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Operations
and Human Rights held a hearing on Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
for 1995. Testimony was heard from John Shattuck, Assistant Secretary, Bureau
of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, Department of State; and public
witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands
held an oversight hearing on Forest Service's decisionmaking process.
Testimony was heard from Barry Hill, Director, Energy Resources and Science
Issues, GAO; Jack Ward, Chief, Forest Service, USDA; and public witnesses. 



1996/03/27
Daily Digest - Wednesday, March 27, 1996;  pages D271 - D282

Committee Meetings

GOALS REVIEW--AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH, EDUCATION AND EXTENSION

Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Resource Conservation, Research, and
Forestry held a hearing to review the goals and priority setting mechanisms of
federally supported agricultural research, education, and extension. Testimony
was heard from Karl Stauber, Under Secretary, Research, Education and
Economics, USDA; and public witnesses. 

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Natural
Resources and Environment and on Farm and Foreign Agricultural Service.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the USDA: James Lyons,
Under Secretary, Natural Resources and Environment; Paul W. Johnson, Chief,
Natural Resources Conservation Service; Eugene Moos, Under Secretary, Farm and
Foreign Agricultural Programs; Grant B. Buntrock, Administrator, Farm Service
Agency; August Schumacher, Jr., Administrator, Foreign Agricultural Service;
and Christopher E. Goldthwait, General Sales Manager. 

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE, AND JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, and
Judiciary held a hearing on D277Attorney General. Testimony was heard from
Janet Reno, Attorney General. 

                                          [Page: D277]

ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development held
a hearing on the Secretary of the Interior, the Commissioner of Reclamation,
the NRC, and on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of the Interior: Bruce Babbitt,
Secretary; and Eluid Martinez, Commissioner of Reclamation; the following
officials of the NRC: Shirley Ann Jackson, Chairman, Kenneth Rogers and Greta
J. Dicus, all Commissioners; and Elizabeth Moler, Chairman, Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission, Department of Energy. 

FOREIGN OPERATIONS APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Foreign Operations, Export
Financing and Related Programs held a hearing on Secretary of State. Testimony
was heard from Warren M. Christopher, Secretary of State. 

NATIONAL SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security held a hearing
on fiscal year 1997 Air Force Posture and on Air Force Acquisition Programs.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of the Air
Force: Sheila E. Widnall, Secretary; Gen. Ronald R. Fogleman, USAF, Chief of
Staff; Arthur L. Money, Assistant Secretary, Acquisition; Lt. Gen. George K.
Muellner, USAF, Principal Deputy, Assistant Secretary, Acquisition; and Brig.
Gen. Dennis G. Haines, USAF, Director, Supply, Office of the Deputy Chief of
Staff, Logistics. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation held a hearing on
Federal Transit Administration and on the Washington Metropolitan Transit
Authority. Testimony was heard from Gordon J. Linton, Administrator, Federal
Transit Administration, Department of Transportation; and Bob Polk, Acting
General Manager, Washington Metropolitan Transit Authority. 

TREASURY, POSTAL SERVICE, AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Treasury, Postal Service, and
General Government held a hearing on White House Operations and on U.S. Postal
Service. Testimony was heard from Frank Rdder, Director, Office of
Administration, Executive Office of the President; and Marvin Runyon,
Postmaster General, U.S. Postal Service. 

VETERANS' AFFAIRS, HUD, AND INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on VA, HUD and Independent Agencies
held a hearing on Department of Housing and Urban Development. Testimony was
heard from Representatives Lazio and Brownback; the following officials of the
Department of Housing and Urban Development: Henry G. Cisneros, Secretary; and
Susan Gaffney, Inspector General; and Judy England-Joseph, Director, Housing
and Community Development Issues, GAO. 

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN ELECTRONIC BENEFITS TRANSFER

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Held a hearing on Issues Related
to Recent Developments in Electronic Benefits Transfer. Testimony was heard
from Russell D. Morris, Commissioner, Financial Management Services,
Department of the Treasury; Edward DeSeve, Comptroller, OMB; and public
witnesses. 

PROSPECTS FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH

Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on Prospects for Economic Growth.
Testimony was heard from Alan Greenspan, Chairman, Board of Governors, Federal
Reserve System. 

DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY: FURLOUGHS AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held a
hearing on the Department of Energy: Furloughs and Financial Management.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Energy:
L. Dow Davis, Litigation Attorney, and Deborah J. Bullock, both with the
Office of the General Counsel; Anne Troy, Attorney; and Joseph F. Vivona,
Chief Financial Officer; and public witnesses. 

FCC REFORM

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Finance held a
hearing on FCC Reform. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
FCC: Reed E. Hundt, Chairman; James Quello, Sussan Ness, Andrew C. Barrett,
and Rachelle B. Chong, all Commissioners. 

Hearings continue tomorrow. 

FEDERAL BUDGET PROCESS REFORM

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information, and Technology held a hearing on Federal D278Budget
Process Reform. Testimony was heard from Representatives Barton of Texas, Cox
of California, Smith of Michigan, Crapo, Stenholm, Thornton, Castle, Royce,
and Smith of Texas; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D278]

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Continued hearings on the fiscal year 1997
national defense authorization, with emphasis on the Department of Defense
Joint Requirements Oversight Council. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Joint Requirements Oversight Council, Department of Defense:
Gen. Joseph W. Ralston, USAF, Vice Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff; Gen Ronald
H. Griffith, USA, Vice Chief of Staff, Army; Adm. Jay J. Johnson, USN, Vice
Chief of Naval Operations; Gen. Thomas S. Moorman, Jr., USAF, Vice Chief of
Staff, Air Force; and Gen. Richard D. Hearney, USMC, Assistant Commandant,
Marine Corps. 

Hearings continue tomorrow. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Special Oversight Panel on Morale, Welfare and
Recreation held a hearing on the fiscal year 1997 national defense
authorization, with emphasis on morale, welfare and recreation issues.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense:
Fred Pang, Assistant Secretary, Force Management; Maj. Gen. Richard Beale,
Jr., USA, Director, Defense Commissary Agency; Maj. Gen. A. Doug Bunger, USAF,
Commander, Army and Air Force Exchange Service; Capt. Bruce R. Bennett, USN,
Commander, Navy Exchange Service Command; Brig. Gen. James R. Joy, USMC
(Ret.), Director, MWR Support Activity, USMC; Brig. Gen. John G. Meyer, USA,
Commander, Army Community and Family Support Center; Brig. Gen. Patrick O.
Adams, USAF, Director of Services, USAF; and RAdm. Larry R. Marsh, USN,
Assistant Chief of Naval Personnel for Readiness and Community Support, Bureau
of Naval Personnel. 

OVERSIGHT--FISCAL YEAR 1997 BUDGET REQUESTS

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans held an
oversight hearing on fiscal year 1997 budget requests from Fish and Wildlife
Service, National Marine Fisheries Service, and NOAA and on the following
bills: H.R. 2909, Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge Eminent
Domain Prevention Act, and H.R. 2982, Carbon Hill National Fish Hatchery
Conveyance Act. Testimony was heard from Representatives Bevill and Bass;
Robert Streeter, Assistant Director, Refuges and Wildlife, U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior; the following officials of the
Department of Commerce: D. James Baker, Under Secretary, Oceans and
Atmosphere; and Diana Josephson, Deputy Under Secretary, Oceans and
Atmosphere, NOAA; Robert W. Correll, Assistant Director, Geosciences, NSF; and
public witnesses. 

HEALTH COVERAGE AVAILABILITY AND AFFORDABILITY ACT; ERISA TARGETED HEALTH
INSURANCE REFORM ACT

Committee on Rules: The Committee granted, by a voice vote, a modified closed
rule on H.R. 3103, to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to improve
portability and continuity of health insurance coverage in the group and
individual markets, to combat waste, fraud, and abuse in health insurance and
health care delivery, to promote access to long-term care services and
coverage, and to simplify the administration of health insurance. The rule
provides that the amendment in the nature of a substitute consisting of the
text of H.R. 3160, modified by the amendment specified in part 1 of the report
of the Committee on Rules, will be considered as adopted. The rule waives all
points of order against the bill, as amended and against its consideration
(except those arising under section 425(a) of the Congressional Budget Act of
1974, relating to unfunded mandates). The previous question shall be
considered as ordered on the bill, as amended, and on any further amendment
thereto to final passage, without intervening motion except as specified. The
rule provides for two hours of debate with 45 minutes equally divided between
the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on Ways and Means,
45 minutes equally divided between the chairman and ranking minority member of
the Committee on Commerce, and 30 minutes equally divided between the chairman
and ranking minority member of the Committee on Economic and Educational
Opportunities. The rule provides for one amendment in the nature of a
substitute to be offered by the Minority Leader or his designee, specified in
part 2 of the report of the Committee on Rules, which shall be in order
without the intervention of any point of order (except those arising under
section 425(a) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974) or a demand for a
division of the question, and shall be debatable for one hour to be equally
divided between the proponent and an opponent. The rule provides for one
motion to recommit, which may include instructions only if offered by the
Minority Leader or his designee. The rule provides that the yeas and nays are
ordered on final passage and that the provisions of clause 5(c) of Rule XXI
(requiring three-fifths vote on any amendment or measure containing a Federal
income tax rate increase) D279shall not apply to the votes on the bill,
amendments thereto or conference reports thereon. Testimony was heard from
Chairmen Archer, Bliley and Goodling; Representatives Hastert, Johnson of
Connecticut, Roukema, Gunderson, Fawell, Shays, Schiff, Gutknecht, Bunn of
Oregon, Roberts, Gibbons, Dingell, Cardin, Richardson, Pallone, Furse, Eshoo,
Peterson of Florida, Pomeroy, and Poshard. 

                                          [Page: D279]

CONTRACT WITH AMERICA ADVANCEMENT ACT

Committee on Rules: The Committee granted, by a voice vote, a closed rule on
H.R. 3136, to provide for enactment of the Senior Citizens' Right to Work Act
of 1996, the Line-Item Veto Act, and the Small Business Growth and Fairness
Act of 1996, and to provide for a permanent increase in the public debt limit;
as modified by the amendment designated in the report of the Committee on
Rules on the resolution. The rule waives all points of order against
consideration of the bill except section 425(a) of the Budget Act (unfunded
mandate point of order). The rule orders the previous question to final
passage without intervening motion except: (1) one hour of debate equally
divided between the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on
Ways and Means; (2) one amendment to be offered by Rep. Archer or his
designee, debatable for 10 minutes; and (3) one motion to recommit which, if
containing instructions may only be offered by the Minority Leader or his
designee. Finally, the rule provides that if the Clerk has, before March 30, 
1996, received a message from the Senate that the Senate has adopted the
conference report on S. 4, the Line-Item Veto Act, then the Clerk shall delete
title II (the Line-Item Veto Act) from the engrossment of the bill (unless
amended), and the House shall be considered to have adopted the conference
report. Testimony was heard from Chairmen Archer, Hyde, Meyers of Kansas, and
Clinger; and Representatives Smith of Michigan, Blute, Quinn, Orton, and
DeLauro. 

CONFERENCE REPORT--FEDERAL AGRICULTURAL IMPROVEMENT AND REFORM ACT

Committee on Rules: The Committee granted, by a voice vote, a rule waiving all
points of order against the conference report to accompany H.R. 2854, Federal
Agricultural Improvement and Reform Act of 1996, and against its
consideration. The rule further provides that S. Con. Res. 49 is agreed to. 

CONFERENCE REPORT--PRODUCT LIABILITY REFORM

Committee on Rules: The Committee granted, by a voice vote, a rule waiving all
points of order against the conference report to accompany H.R. 956, Product
Liability Reform, and against its consideration. 

PAPERWORK ELIMINATION ACT

Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Government Programs held a
hearing on H.R. 2715, Paperwork Elimination Act of 1995. Testimony was heard
from Sally Katzen, Administrator, Office of Information and Regulatory
Affairs, OMB; the following officials of the SBA: Jere Glover, Chief Counsel,
Office of advocacy; and Monika Harrison, Associate Administrator, Office of
Business Initiatives; and public witnesses. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 
 
UNITED STATES AVIATION RELATIONSHIP WITH THE U.K. AND JAPAN

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing on Problems in the United States Aviation Relationship with the
United Kingdom and Japan. Testimony was heard from Public witnesses. 

Hearings continue April 24. 

NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation
approved for full Committee action H.R. 3159, National Transportation Safety
Board Amendments of 1996. 

RAIL SAFETY OVERSIGHT

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Railroads and
the Subcommittee on Technology of the Committee on Science held a joint
hearing on Rail Safety Oversight: High Technology Train Control Devices.
Testimony was heard from Jolene Molitoris, Administrator, Federal Railroad
Administration, Department of Transportation; James Arena, Director, Office of
Surface Transportation Safety, National Transportation Safety Board; Dennis
Sullivan, CEO, National Rail Passenger Corporation (AMTRAK); and public
witnesses. 

REPLACING THE FEDERAL INCOME TAX

Committee on Ways and Means: Continued hearings on Replacing the Federal
Income Tax. Testimony was heard from Representatives Armey, Gephardt,
Schaefer, Tauzin, and Chrysler, and public witnesses. 

ANALYSIS/EXPLOITATION

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Analysis/Exploitation. Testimony was heard from departmental
witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D280]



1996/03/28
Daily Digest - Thursday, March 28, 1996;  pages D284 - D294

Committee Meetings

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies held a hearing on
Departmental Administration/Office of Chief Financial Officer and on Rural
Economic and Community Development. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the USDA: Wardell C. Townsend, Jr., Assistant Secretary,
Administration; Irwin T. David, Acting Chief Financial Officer; Jill
Long-Thompson, Under Secretary, Rural Economic and Community Development
Service; Wally B. Beyer, Administrator, Rural Utilities Service; Maureen
Kennedy, Administrator, Rural Housing Service; Dayton J. Watkins,
Administrator, Rural Business Cooperative Services; and Bruce Crain, Director,
Alternative Agricultural Research and Commercialization Center. 

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE, AND JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, and
Judiciary held a hearing on the Supreme Court. Testimony was heard from the
following Associate Justices of the U.S. Supreme Court: Anthony M. Kennedy;
and David H. Souter. 

ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development held
a hearing on the Appalachian Regional Commission and on the TVA. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Appalachian Regional Commission:
Jesse L. White, Jr., Federal Co-Chairman and Gaston Caperton, States
Co-Chairman and Governor, State of West Virginia; and Craven Crowell,
Chairman, TVA. 

The Subcommittee also met in executive session to hold a hearing on Naval
Reactors and on the Department of Energy Atomic Energy Defense Activities.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense:
Adm. Bruce DeMars, USN, Director, Naval Nuclear Propulsion; and Jerry
Freedman, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Nuclear Matters; and the following
officials of the Department of Energy: Victor H. Reis, Assistant Secretary,
Defense Programs; and Joan B. Rohlfing, Director, Office of Nonproliferation
and National Security. 

                                          [Page: D291]

FOREIGN OPERATIONS APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Foreign Operations, Export
Financing and Related Programs held a hearing on the Export-Import Bank, the
Overseas Private Investment Corporation and on the Trade and Development
Agency. Testimony was heard from Martin A. Kamarck, Acting President and
Chairman, Export-Import Bank; Ruth R. Harkin, President and CEO, Overseas
Private Investment Corporation, U.S. International Development Cooperation
Agency; and J. Joseph Grandmaison, Director, U.S. Trade and Development
Agency.' 

MILITARY CONSTRUCTION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction held a
hearing on Budget Overview. Testimony was heard from John J. Hamre, Under
Secretary (Comptroller)/Chief Financial Officer, Department of Defense. 

NATIONAL SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security held a hearing
on fiscal year 1997 Army Posture and on Army Acquisition Programs. Testimony
was heard from the following officials of the Department of the Army: Togo D.
West, Jr., Secretary: Gen. Dennis J. Reimer, USA, Chief of Staff; Gilbert F.
Decker, Assistant Secretary, RD&A; Lt. Gen. Ronald V. Hite, USA, Military
Deputy to the Assistant Secretary RD&A; Lt. Gen. Otto J. Guenther, USA,
Director, Information Systems for C4; Maj. Gen. Edward G. Anderson III, USA,
Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations and Plans for Force Development;
and Fenner Milton, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Research and Technology, Office
of the Assistant Secretary, RD&A. 

TREASURY, POSTAL OPERATIONS, AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Treasury, Postal Service, and
General Government held a hearing on Council of Economic Advisors and on
Overall Treasury Operations. Testimony was heard from Joseph E. Stiglitz,
Chairman, Council of Economic Advisors; and the following officials of the
Department of the Treasury: Robert E. Rubin, Secretary; and George Munoz,
Assistant Secretary for Management/Chief Financial Officer. 

VETERANS' AFFAIRS, HUD, AND INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Veterans' Affairs, Housing and
Urban Development, and Independent Agencies held a hearing on the Department
of Veterans Affairs. Testimony was heard from Jesse Brown, Secretary of
Veterans Affairs. 

ENTERPRISE RESOURCE BANK ACT OF 1996 

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Capital Markets,
Securities and Government Sponsored Enterprises approved for full Committee
action amended H.R. 3167, Enterprise Resource Bank Act of 1996. 

TRANSPORTATION TRUST FUNDS OFF-BUDGET

Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on the Implications of Taking the
Transportation Trust Funds Off-Budget. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Shuster, Oberstar, Livingston, Wolf, and Coleman; and public
witnesses. 

COMPETITIVE ELECTRICITY MARKETS

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Power held an oversight
hearing on Technological, Environmental, and Financial Issues Raised by
Increasingly Competitive Electricity Markets. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses. 

FCC REFORM

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Finance
concluded hearings on FCC Reform. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

JUVENILE JUSTICE AND DELINQUENCY PREVENTION ACT

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on Early
Childhood, Youth and Families held a hearing on reviewing the Juvenile Justice
and Delinquency Prevention Act. Testimony was heard from Linda O'Neal,
Executive Director, Commission on Children and Youth, State of Tennessee;
Jerry W. Kilgore, Secretary of Public Safety, State of Virginia; and public
witnesses. 

D.C. FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND MANAGEMENT ASSISTANCE ACT OF 1995 

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on the District of
Columbia continued hearings on implementation of Public Law 104-8, district of
Columbia Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Act of 1995.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the District of Columbia:
Marion S. Barry, Mayor; David A. Clarke, Chairman, Council; Anthony Williams,
Chief Financial Officer; Angela Avant, Inspector General; and Andrew Brimmer,
Chairman, Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Authority; and a
public witness. 

                                          [Page: D292]

PERSIAN GULF WAR SYNDROME 

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Human Resources
and Intergovernmental Relations continued hearings on the Status of Efforts to
Identify Persian Gulf War Syndrome, Part 11. Testimony was heard from Thomas
Garthwaite, M.D., Deputy Under Secretary, Health, Department of Veterans
Affairs. 

Hearings continue May 2. 

DEVELOPMENTS IN IRAQ

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on Developments in Iraq.
Testimony was heard from Madeleine Albright, U.S. Permanent Representative to
the United Nations, Department of State; and public witnesses. 

REORGANIZATION OF THE FEDERAL ADMINISTRATIVE JUDICIARY ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
held a hearing on H.R. 1802, Reorganization of the Federal Administrative
Judiciary Act. Testimony was heard from Elizabeth A. Moler, Chair, Federal
Energy Regulatory Commission, Department of Energy; the following officials of
the NLRB: William B. Gould, IV, Chairman; and David S. Davidson, Chief
Administrative Law Judge; the following officials of the SSA: Rita Geier,
Deputy Associate Commissioner; Ron Bernoski and Seymour Fier, both
Administrative Law Judges; and Stephen Calkins, General Counsel, FTC. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Continued hearings on the fiscal year 1997
national defense authorization. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Defense: Gen. George A. Joulwan, USA, Commander
in Chief, U.S. European Command; Gen. J. H. Binford Peay III, USA, Commander
in Chief, U.S. Central Command; Adm. Joseph W. Prueher, USN, Commander in
Chief, U.S. Pacific Command; Gen. Gary E. Luck, USA, Commander in Chief,
United Nations Command, Commander in Chief, ROK/U.S. Combined Forces Command,
Commander, U.S. Forces Korea; and VAdm. Harold Gehman, USN, Deputy Commander
in Chief, U.S. Atlantic Command. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Ordered reported the following measures: H.R. 3034, to
amend the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act to extend for
two months the authority for promulgating regulations under the Act; H.R.
2107, amended, Visitor Services Improvement and Outdoor Legacy Act of 1995;
H.R. 1129, amended, to amend the National Trails Systems Act to designate the
route from Selma to Montgomery as a National Historic Trail; H.R. 1772,
amended, to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to acquire certain
interests in the Waihee Marsh for inclusion in the Oahu National Wildlife
Refuge Complex; H.R. 1836, to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to
acquire property in the town of East Hampton, Suffolk County, New York, for
inclusion in the Amagansett National Wildlife Refuge; H.R. 2660, to increase
the amount authorized to be appropriated to the Department of the Interior for
the Tensas River National Wildlife Refuge; H.R. 2679, to revise the boundary
of the North Platte National Wildlife Refuge; and H.R. 1975, amended, Federal
Oil and Gas Royalty Simplification and Fairness Act of 1995. 

NASA POSTURE

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics held a hearing on
NASA Posture. Testimony was heard from Daniel S. Goldin, Administrator, NASA. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Public
Buildings and Economic Development approved for full Committee action the
following: 10 pending prospectuses; H. Con. Res. 150, authorizing the use of
the Capitol Grounds for an event sponsored by the Specialty Equipment Market
Association; H. Con. Res. 153, authorizing the use of the Capitol Grounds for
the Greater Washington Soap Box Derby; H.R. 3134, to designate the U.S.
Courthouse under construction at 1030 Southwest 3d Avenue, Portland, OR, as
the "Mark O. Hatfield United States Courthouse;" and H.R. 3029, to designate
the United States courthouse in Washington, District of Columbia, as the "E.
Barrett Prettyman United States Courthouse."  

TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Surface
Transportation held a hearing on the Importance of Transportation
Infrastructure Investments to the Nation's Future. Testimony was heard from
T.R. Lakshmanan, Director, Bureau of Transportation Statistics, Department of
Transportation; and public witnesses. 

DEEPWATER PORT MODERNIZATION ACT

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Water
Resources and Environment and the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime
Transportation held a joint hearing on H.R. 2940, Deepwater Port Modernization
Act. Testimony was heard from Representative Hayes; Joseph Canny, D293Deputy
Assistant Secretary, Transportation Policy, Department of Transportation; and
public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D293]

IRS BUDGET AND TAX RETURN FILING SEASON

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Oversight held a hearing on the
IRS budget for Fiscal Year 1997 and the 1996 Tax Return Filing Season.
Testimony was heard from Margaret Milner Richardson, Commissioner, IRS,
Department of the Treasury; Lynda D. Willis, Director, Tax Policy and
Administration issues, GAO; and public witnesses. 

U.S. TRADE POLICY--STATUS AND FUTURE DIRECTION

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Trade continued hearings on the
status and future direction of U.S. trade policy, with emphasis on United
States-Japan trade relations. Testimony was heard from Representatives Dreier
and Levin; Ira Shapiro, Senior Counsel and Negotiator, office of the U.S.
Trade Representative. 



1996/03/29
Daily Digest - Friday, March 29, 1996;  pages D296 - D300

Committee Meeting

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE AND JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, and
Judiciary held a hearing on the Commission on Security and Cooperation in
Europe (Helsinki Commission). Testimony was heard from Representative Smith of
New Jersey. 

The Subcommittee also continued appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard
from Members of Congress. 

ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development held
a hearing on the Secretary of Energy. Testimony was head from Hazel R.
O'Leary, Secretary of Energy. 

TRUTH IN BUDGETING ACT

Committee on the Budget: Ordered reported unfavorably H.R. 842, Truth in
Budgeting Act. 

CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION REAUTHORIZATION

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Hazardous
Materials held a hearing on reauthorization of the Consumer Product Safety
Commission. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Consumer
Product Safety Commission: Ann Brown, Chairman; Mary Sheila Gall and Thomas
Hill Moore, both Commissioners; the following former Chairmen of the
Commission: Terrence Scanlon and Nancy Harvey Steorts; and Carol Dawson,
former Commissioner. 

                                          [Page: D299]

SINGLE AUDIT ACT AMENDMENTS

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information, and Technology held a hearing on H.R. 3184, Single
Audit Act Amendments of 1996. Testimony was heard from G. Edward DeSeve,
Controller, Office of Federal Financial Management, OMB; Gene L. Dodaro,
Assistant Comptroller General, Accounting and Information Management Division,
GAO; and public witnesses. 

OMNIBUS EXPORT ADMINISTRATION ACT

Committee on International Relations: Ordered reported amended H.R. 361,
Omnibus Export Administration Act of 1995. 

GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime approved for full Committee
action H.R. 3166, Government Accountability Act of 1996. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Procurement and the
Subcommittee on Military Research and Development continued joint hearings on
the fiscal year 1997 national Defense authorization, with emphasis on Navy
modernization. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of the Navy: John W. Douglass, Assistant Secretary, Research,
Development, and Acquisition; VAdm. Thomas J. Lopez, USN, Deputy Chief of
Naval Operations, Resources, Warfare Requirements, and Assessments; and Maj.
Gen. Jeffrey W. Oster, USMC, Deputy Chief of Staff, Programs and Resources,
U.S. Marine Corps. 

TAX LIMITATION CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a modified closed rule providing
for the consideration of H.J. Res. 159, proposing an amendment to the
Constitution of the United States to require two-thirds majorities for bills
increasing taxes, in the House without the intervention of any point of order.
The rule provides that an amendment in the nature of a substitute consisting
of the Text of H.J. Res. 169 will be considered as adopted. The previous
question shall be considered as ordered on the joint resolution as amended,
and on any further amendment thereto to final passage without intervening
motion except as specified. The rule provides 3 hours of debate equally
divided and controlled between the chairman and ranking minority member of the
Committee on the Judiciary. The rule further provides for an amendment by the
Minority Leader or his designee, which will be considered as read, and which
will be debatable for 1 hour equally divided between the proponent and an
opponent. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit with or without
instructions. Testimony was heard from Representatives Barton of Texas,
Shadegg, Hall of Texas, Skaggs, Frank of Massachusetts, Conyers and Geren of
Texas. 

TRUTH IN BUDGETING ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 2 hours of
debate on H.R. 842, Truth in Budgeting Act. The rule makes in order the
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Committee on the
Budget. The rule makes in order the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure amendment in the nature of a substitute now printed in the bill
as an original bill for the purpose of amendment. The rule provides that each
section of the committee amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be
considered as read. Priority in recognition will be given to Members who have
pre-printed their amendments in the Congressional Record prior to their
consideration. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit, with or
without instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman Shuster. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Small Business: Ordered reported amended the following bills:
H.R. 3158, Pilot Small Business Technology Transfer Program Extension Act of
1996; and H.R. 2715, Paperwork Elimination Act of 1995. 

ADMINISTRATION'S BUDGET REQUEST

Committee on Veteran's Affairs: Held a hearing on the Administration's fiscal
year 1997 budget request. Testimony was heard from Jesse Brown, Secretary of
Veterans Affairs and Frank Q. Nebeker, Chief Judge, U.S. Court of Veterans
Appeals.



1996/04/15
Daily Digest - Monday, April 15, 1996;  pages D301 - D310

Committee Meetings

PERSONAL BANKING FRAUD

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Held a hearing on personal
banking fraud. Testimony was heard from Jodi Bernstein, Director, Bureau of
Consumer Protection, FTC; and public witnesses. 



1996/04/16
Daily Digest - Tuesday, April 16, 1996;  pages D312 - D320

Committee Meetings

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies continued appropriation
hearings. Testimony has heard from Members of Congress and public witnesses. 

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE, AND JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, and
Judiciary held a hearing on Inspectors General (Departments of Justice and
State) and on the Federal Judiciary. Testimony was heard from the following
Inspectors General: Michael R. Bromwich, Department of Justice; and Jacquelyn
L. Williams-Bridgers, Department of State; Richard S. Arnold, Chief Judge,
U.S. Court of Appeals, Eighth Circuit and Chair, Judicial Conference Committee
on the Budget; Owen M. Panner, Judge, U.S. District Court, District of Oregon;
Rya W. Zobel, Judge, U.S. District Court, Massachusetts, Director, Federal
Judicial Center; William G. Young, Judge, U.S. District Court, Massachusetts;
and Leonidas Ralph Mecham, Director, Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts. 

INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior held a hearing on
Department of Energy: Fossil Energy Research and Development and on the
Department of Energy: Energy Conservation. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Energy: Patricia Fry Godley,
Assistant Secretary, Fossil Energy; and Christine A. Ervin, Assistant
Secretary, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. 

LABOR--HHS--EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on Elementary and Secondary Education, on
Minority Languages Affairs and on Special Education and Rehabilitative
Services. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of Education: Gerald N. Tirozzi, Assistant Secretary, Elementary and Secondary
Education; Delia Pompa, Director, Office of Bilingual Education and Minority
Languages Affairs; and Judith E. Heumann, Assistant Secretary, Special
Education and Rehabilitative Services. 

NATIONAL SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security held a hearing
on Military Personnel Issues. Testimony was heard from the following officials
of the Department of Defense: Lt.Gen. Theodore G. Stroup, Jr., USA, Deputy
Chief of Staff Personnel, Army; Lt.Gen. Michael D. McGinty, USAF, Deputy Chief
of Staff Personnel, Air Force; VAdm. Frank L. Bowman, USN, Chief of Naval
Personnel; and Lt.Gen. George R. Christmas, USMC, Deputy Chief of Staff,
Manpower and Reserves. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation held a hearing on
the FAA. Testimony was heard from David R. Hinson, Administrator, FAA,
Department of Transportation. 

TREASURY, POSTAL SERVICE AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Treasury, Postal Service, and
General Government held a hearing on the Federal Election Commission.
Testimony was heard from the following Commissioners of the Federal Election
Commission: Scott E. Thomas; Joan D. Aikens and Lee Ann Elliott. 

VETERANS' AFFAIRS, HUD, AND INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Veterans' Affairs, Housing and
Urban Development, and Independent Agencies held a hearing on the EPA.
Testimony was heard from Carol M. Browner, Administrator, EPA. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Commerce: Ordered reported amended the following bills: H.R.
2024, Mercury Containing and Rechargeable Battery Management Act and H.R.
1514, Propane Education and Research Act. 

                                          [Page: D317]

JANUARY 1, 2000--COMPUTER DISASTER?

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information and Technology, Is January 1, 2000 the Date for
Computer Disaster? Testimony was heard from D. Dean Mesterharm, Deputy
Commissioner, Systems, SSA; Emmet Paige, Jr., Assistant Secretary, Defense
Command, Control, Communications and Intelligence, Department of Defense;
George Munoz, Assistant Secretary, Management and Chief Financial Officer,
Department of the Treasury; Louis J. Marcoccia, Director, Data Administration
and Logistics, New York City Transit Authority; and public witnesses. 

SCHOOL DESEGREGATION LITIGATION

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution held a hearing on
legislative responses to school desegregation litigation. Testimony was heard
from Representatives Lipinski and Hoke; and public witnesses. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Installations and
Facilities continued hearings on the fiscal year 1997 national defense
authorization, with emphasis on the military construction request. Testimony
was heard from Representatives Buyer, Bryant of Tennessee, Smith of New Jersey
and Whitfield; and public witnesses. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Procurement continued
hearings on the fiscal year 1997 national defense authorization, with emphasis
on the F-14 safety record. Testimony was heard from Representative Clement;
the following officials of the Department of Defense: Gen. Harold Blot, USMC,
Deputy Chief of Staff, Aviation, U.S. Marine Corps; and Adm. Jay Johnson, USN,
Vice Chief of Naval Operations. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Readiness continued
hearings on the fiscal year 1997 national defense authorization, with emphasis
on depot maintenance issues. Testimony was heard from David Warren, Director,
Defense Management Issues, GAO; and John P. White. Deputy Secretary,
Department of Defense. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands held
a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 639, West Virginia National Rivers
Technical Amendments Act of 1995; H.R. 640, West Virginia National Rivers
Boundary Modifications Act of 1995; H.R. 1825, to amend the Wild and Scenic
Rivers Act to limit acquisition of land on the 39-mile headwaters segment of
the Missouri River, Nebraska and South Dakota, designated as a recreational
river, to acquisition from willing sellers; H.R. 2255, Lamprey Wild and Scenic
River Act; and H.R. 2292, Hanford Reach Preservation Act. Testimony was heard
from Representatives Johnson of South Dakota, Rahall, Hastings of Washington
and Zeliff; Katherine H. Stevenson, Associate Director, Cultural Resources,
National Park Service, Department of the Interior; and public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT--RESEARCH PROGRAMS--NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Technology held an oversight hearing to
review Research Laboratory Programs at the National Institute of Standards and
Technology, with emphasis on Technology Administration/National Institute of
Standards Technology fiscal year 1997 authorization. Testimony was heard from
Arati Prabhakar, Director, National Institute of Standards and Technology,
Department of Commerce. 

OVERSIGHT--AGENT ORANGE EXPOSURE 

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Hospitals and Health Care held
an oversight hearing concerning the results of the recent study by the
Institute of Medicine on health effects in children of individuals exposed to
Agent Orange in Vietnam. Testimony was heard from David Erickson, D.D.S.,
Chief, Birth Defects and Genetic Diseases Branch, National Center for
Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control, Department of Health and
Human Services; Kenneth Kizer, M.D., Under Secretary, Health, Department of
Veterans Affairs; and public witnesses. 

HEALTH PROFESSIONS 

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on New
Health Professions and Graduate Medical Education Recommendations. Testimony
was heard from public witnesses. 

PDD-35

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on PDD-35. Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses. 



1996/04/17
Daily Digest - Wednesday, April 17, 1996;  pages D322 - D330

Committee Meetings

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies continued appropriation
hearings. Testimony was heard from Members of Congress and public witnesses. 

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE, AND JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, and the
Judiciary held a hearing on the Legal Services Corporation. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Legal Services Corporation: Douglas
S. Eakeley, Chairman, Board of Directors; Nancy Hardin Rogers, Vice Chair,
Board of Directors; and Alexander D. Forger, President. 

The Subcommittee also continued appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard
from public witnesses. 

INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior continued appropriation
hearings. Testimony was heard from Members of Congress. 

LABOR--HHS--EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on Postsecondary Education, on Educational
Research and Improvement and Libraries and on Vocational and Adult Education.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
Education: David A. Longanecker, Assistant Secretary, Postsecondary Education;
Sharon P. Robinson, Assistant Secretary, Educational Research and Improvement;
and Patricia W. McNeil, Acting Assistant Secretary, Vocational and Adult
Education. 

NATIONAL SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security held a hearing
on Ballistic Missile Defense. Testimony was heard from Lt. Gen. Malcolm R.
O'Neill, USA, Director, Ballistic Missile Defense Organization, Department of
Defense. 

TREASURY, POSTAL SERVICE, AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Treasury, Postal Service, and
General Government held a hearing on Anti-Drug Strategies and on Customs Drug
Interdiction. Testimony was heard from Gen. Barry McCaffrey, USA, Director,
Office of National Drug Control Policy; and George Weise, Commissioner of
Customs, Department of the Treasury. 

VETERANS' AFFAIRS, HUD AND INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Veterans' Affairs, Housing and
Urban Development and Independent Agencies held a hearing on the EPA.
Testimony was heard from Carol M. Browner, Administrator, EPA. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Capital Markets,
Securities and Government Sponsored Enterprises held an oversight hearing on
the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home
Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac). Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Housing and Urban Development:
Nicholas P. Retsinas, Assistant Secretary, Housing; and Aida Alvarez,
Director, Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight; Leland C. Brendsel,
Chairman and CEO, Freddie Mac; and James A. Johnson, Chairman and CEO, Fannie
Mae. 

ECONOMIC AND BUDGET OUTLOOK

Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on the Economic and Budget Outlook.
Testimony was heard from June E. O'Neill, Director, CBO. 

SMALL BUSINESS OSHA RELIEF ACT

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on Workforce
Protections approved for full Committee action amended H.R. 3234, Small
Business OSHA Relief Act of 1996. 

CONGRATULATING PEOPLE OF SIERRA LEONE; DEMOCRATIC ELECTIONS: MYTH OR REALITY
IN AFRICA?

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Africa approved for full
Committee action H. Con. Res. 160, congratulating the people of the Republic
of Sierra Leone on the success of their recent democratic multiparty
elections. 

The Subcommittee also held a hearing on Democratic Elections: Myth or Reality
in Africa? Testimony was heard from George Moose, Assistant Secretary, African
Affairs, Department of State; and public witnesses. 

SECURITY IN NORTHEAST ASIA

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific
held a hearing on Security in Northeast Asia: From Okinawa to the DMZ.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D327]

OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT ETHICS AUTHORIZATION

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution approved for full
Committee action H.R. 3235, to amend the Ethics in Government Act of 1978, to
extend the authorization of appropriations for the Office of Government Ethics
for 3 years. 

MANDATORY FEDERAL PRISON DRUG TREATMENT ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime approved for full Committee
action amended H.R. 2650, Mandatory Federal Prison Drug Treatment Act of 1995. 

OVERSIGHT--FUNDING PROGRAMS TO PROTECT ENDANGERED SPECIES

Committee on Resources: Held an oversight hearing on funding programs to
protect Endangered Species. Testimony was heard from Mollie Beattie, Director,
Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior; the following officials
of the Department of Defense; Sherri W. Goodman, Deputy Under Secretary,
Environmental Security; and Maj. Gen. Stanley G. Genega, USA, Director, Civil
Works, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army; Rolland Schmitten,
Director, National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA, Department of Commerce;
Jack Ward Thomas, Chief, Power Service, USDA; Jack Robertson, Deputy
Administrator, Bonneville Power Administration, Department of Energy; and
public witnesses. 

CONFERENCE REPORT--ANTITERRORISM AND EFFECTIVE DEATH PENALTY ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a rule waiving all points of order
against the conference report to accompany S. 735, Antiterrorism and Effective
Death Penalty Act of 1996, and against its consideration. Testimony was heard
from Chairman Hyde and Representatives Barr of Georgia and Conyers. 

DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY BUDGET AUTHORIZATIONS

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment held a hearing on
Department of Energy's Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy and Fossil
Energy Programs fiscal year 1997 budget authorization. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Energy: Christine A. Ervin,
Assistant Secretary, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy; and Patricia Fry
Godley, Assistant Secretary, Fossil Energy; Allen Li, Associate Director,
Energy Resources and Sciences Issues, GAO; and public witnesses. 

NASA AUTHORIZATION

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics held a hearing on
the fiscal year 1997 NASA Authorization. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the NASA: Richard J. Wisniewski, Deputy Associate
Administrator, Office of Space Flight; Col. Gary Payton, USAF (Ret.) Director,
Space Transportation Division; Anneila Sargent, Chair, NASA Space Science
Advisory Committee; Wilbur C. Trafton, Associate Administrator, Office of
Space Flight; and Dan Tam, Space Station Business Manager; and public
witnesses. 

KEMP COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS

Committee on Small Business: Held a meeting on the Kemp Commission
recommendations. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
National Commission on Economic Growth and Tax Reform: Jack Kemp, Chairman;
Jack Fris and Shirley D. Peterson, both Commissioners. 

PAYMENT OF STIPENDS TO BIDDERS

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Public
Buildings and Economic Development held a hearing on the payment of stipends
to bidders relating to the construction of Federal buildings under the Public
Buildings Act of 1959. Testimony was heard from Representative Davis; the
following officials of the GSA: Ida Ustad, Deputy Associate Administrator,
Office of Acquisition Policy; and David Eakin, Program Manager, Design-Build,
Office of Property Development; and public witnesses. 

VETERANS LEGISLATION

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Compensation, Pension,
Insurance and Memorial Affairs approved for full Committee action the
following bills: H.R. 2843, amended, Veterans' Insurance Reform Act of 1996;
H.R. 2850, to amend title 38, United States Code, to clarify the eligibility
of certain minors for burial in national cemeteries; H.R. 1483, to amend title
38, United States Code, to allow revision of veterans benefits decisions based
on clear and unmistakable error; and H.R. 3248, Veterans' Programs Amendments
of 1996. 

DISSEMINATION, BRIEFING--UPDATE ON NORTH KOREA

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Dissemination. Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses. 

The Committee also met in executive session to hold a briefing on Update on
North Korea. The Committee was briefed by departmental witnesses. 



1996/04/18
Daily Digest - Thursday, April 18, 1996;  pages D331 - D338

Committee Meetings

AGRICUTLURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies continued appropriation
hearings. Testimony was heard from Members of Congress and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D335]

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE AND JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, and
Judiciary continued appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses. 

The Subcommittee also held a hearing on the U.S. Sentencing Commission, the
State Justice Institute and on the U.S. Parole Commission. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the U.S. Sentencing Commission: Michael S.
Gelacak, Vice Chairman and Michael Goldsmith, Commissioner; Edward F. Reilly,
Chairman, U.S. Parole Commission, Department of Justice; and the following
officials of the State Justice Institute: David A. Brock, Chief Justice and
Co-Chairman; and John F. Daffron, Judge and Co-Chairman. 

FOREIGN OPERATIONS, EXPORT FINANCING AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Foreign Operations, Export
Financing and Related Programs held a hearing on the Secretary of the
Treasury. Testimony was heard from Robert E. Rubin, Secretary of the Treasury. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on the Secretary of Health and Human Services and
on the Director of the National Institutes of Health. Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the Department of Health and Human Services: Donna
E. Shalala, Secretary; and Harold E. Varmus, M.D., Director, NIH. 

NATIONAL SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security met in
executive session to hold a hearing on Intelligence Programs. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense: Maj. Gen.
Edward G. Anderson III, USA, Assistant Chief of Staff, Operations (Force
Development); Maj. Gen. Bobby O. Floyd, USAF, Director of Forces, Office of
Deputy Chief of Staff Plans and Operations; RAdm. R.A. Wilson, USN, Deputy
Director, Space, Information Warfare, Command and Control; Maj. Gen. D.A.
Richwine, USMC, Assistant Chief of Staff, Command, Control, Communications,
Computer and Intelligence; Maj. Gen. Kenneth Isreal, USAF, Director, Defense
Airborne Reconnaissance Office; and Keith R. Hall, Deputy Director, National
Reconnaissance Office. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation held a hearing on
the Secretary of Transportation. Testimony was heard from Federico PenAE6a,
Secretary of Transportation. 

TREASURY, POSTAL SERVICE, AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Treasury, Postal Service, and
General Government held a hearing on the GSA. Testimony was heard from David
Barram, Acting Administrator, GSA. 

VETERANS' AFFAIRS-HUD-INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Veterans' Affairs, Housing and
Urban Development, and Independent Agencies held a hearing on Consumer Product
Safety Commission, the Consumer Information Center, and on the Office of
Consumer Affairs. Testimony was heard from Ann Brown, Chairman, Consumer
Product Safety Commission; Teresa Nasif, Director, Consumer Information
Center, GSA; and Bernice Friedlander, Director, Office of Consumer Affairs,
Department of Health and Human Services. 

ENTREPRENEURIAL INVESTMENT ACT OF 1996

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Capital Markets,
Securities and Government Sponsored Enterprises held a hearing on H.R. 2981,
Entrepreneurial Investment Act of 1996. Testimony was heard from
Representative Chrysler; Susan M. Phillips, member, Board of Governors,
Federal Reserve System; and public witnesses. 

ASSESSMENT OF UNION DUES

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on
Employer-Employee Relations held a hearing on mandatory assessment of union
dues. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

SINGLE AUDIT ACT AMENDMENTS

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information, and Technology approved for full Committee action
amended H.R. 3184, Single Audit Act Amendments of 1996. 

JOB TRAINING PROGRAMS

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Human Resources
and Intergovernmental Relations held a hearing to examine the characteristics
of effective job training programs. Testimony was heard from Carlotta C.
Joyner, Director, D336Education and Employment Issues, Health, Education, and
Human Services Division, GAO; Timothy Barnicle, Assistant Secretary,
Employment and Training Administration, Department of Labor; and public
witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D336]

ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES IN SOUTH ASIA

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific and
the Subcommittee on International Economic Policy and Trade held a joint
hearing on Economic Opportunities and Pitfalls in South Asia. Testimony was
heard from Raymond E. Vickery, Assistant Secretary, Trade and Development,
Department of Commerce; and public witnesses.  

BILINGUAL VOTING REQUIREMENTS REPEAL ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution held a hearing on
H.R. 351, Bilingual Voting Requirements Repeal Act. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Porter, Livingston, Becerra, Velazquez and King; Deval
Patrick, Assistant Attorney General, Civil Rights Division, Department of
Justice; and public witnesses. 

CONSUMER FRAUD PREVENTION ACT

Committee on the Judiciary; Subcommittee on Crime held a hearing on
telemarketing fraud and the victimization of the elderly, focusing on H.R.
1499, Consumer Fraud Prevention Act of 1995, Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Justice: Mitchell D. Dembio,
Assistant U.S. Attorney, Southern District of California, Chief, General
Crimes Section; and Chuck Owens, Chief, Financial Crimes Section, FBI, and
public witnesses. 

MANAGEMENT AND POLICIES ON FEDERAL LANDS

Committee on Resources: Held an oversight hearing on Federal Management and
Policies on Federal Lands: State Legislators' Perspective. Testimony was heard
from the following State Legislators: Robin Taylor, Senator, State of Alaska;
James Hargrove, Representative, State of Washington; Tim Leslie, Senator,
State of California; Bill Markham, Representative, State of Oregon; and
Charles Cuddy, Representative, State of Idaho. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans
approved for full Committee action the following bills: H.R. 2823, amended,
International Dolphin Conservation Program Act; H.R. 2909, Silvio O. Conte
National Fish and Wildlife Eminent Domain Prevention Act; and H.R. 2982,
Carbon Hill National Fish Hatchery Conveyance Act. 
 
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands
approved for full Committee action amended the following bills: H.R. 810,
Revolutionary War and War of 1812 Historic Preservation Study Act of 1995;
H.R. 848, to increase the amount authorized to be appropriated for assistance
for highway relocation regarding Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military
Park in Georgia; H.R. 970, to improve the administration of the Women's Right
National Historical Park in the State of New York; H.R. 1179, Historically
Black Colleges and Universities Historic Building Restoration and Preservation
Act; H.R. 2941, to improve the quantity and quality of the quarters of land
management agency field employees; H.R. 2028, Federal Land Management Agency
Concession Reform Act of 1995; H.R. 194, to direct the Secretary of the
Interior to make matching contributions toward the purchase of the Sterling
Forest in the State of New York. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Water and Power Resources held an
oversight hearing on Results/Status Report of Administrative process on
Central Valley Project Improvement Act (CVPIA) Implementation. Testimony was
heard from John Garamendi, Deputy Secretary, Department of the Interior. 

The Subcommittee also held a hearing on the following: H.R. 2392, to amend the
Umatilla Basin Project Act to establish boundaries for irrigation districts
within the Umatilla Basin; H.R. 2781, to authorize the Secretary of the
Interior to provide loan guarantees for water supply, conservation, quality,
and transmission projects; H.R. 3041, to supplement the Small Reclamation
Projects Act of 1956 and to supplement the Federal Reclamation Laws by
providing for Federal cooperation in nonfederal projects and for participation
by nonfederal agencies in Federal projects; H.R. 2819, Fort Peck Rural Country
Water Supply System Act of 1995; and a measure to direct the Secretary of the
Interior to convey property in New Mexico to the Carlstad Irrigation District.
Testimony was heard from Eluid L. Martinez, Commissioner, Bureau of
Reclamation, Department of the Interior; and public witnesses. 

ANTARCTIC ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT OF 1996

Committee on Science: Held a hearing on H.R. 3060, Antarctic Environmental
Protection Act of 1996. Testimony was heard from Neal Lane, Director, D337NSF;
Eileen Claussen, Assistant Secretary, Oceans and International Environmental
and Scientific Affairs, Department of State; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D337]

FAA RESEARCH, ENGINEERING, AND DEVELOPMENT AUTHORIZATION

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Technology held a hearing on FAA
Research, Engineering and Development Fiscal Year 1997 Authorization and
Management Reform. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
FAA, Department of Transportation: David R. Hinson, Administrator; and George
L. Donohue, Associate Administrator, Research and Acquisitions. 

VENTURE CAPITAL MARKETING ASSOCIATION CHARTER ACT

Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Government Programs held a
hearing on H.R. 2806, Venture Capital Marketing Association Charter Act.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
pending business. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Education, Training,
Employment and Housing held a hearing on the following: H.R. 2851, to amend
title 38, United States Code, to provide for approval of enrollment in courses
offered at certain branches or extensions of proprietary profit institutions
of higher learning in operation for more than two years; H.R. 2868, to amend
title 38, United States Code, to make permanent alternative teacher
certification programs; and H.R. 3036, to amend title 38, United States Code,
to require that the offices for management, policy, and other functions
associated with the educational assistance programs of the Education Service
of the Department of Veterans Affairs be in the District of Columbia.
Testimony was heard from Representative Tejeda; Carolyn Becraft, Deputy
Assistant Secretary, Personnel Support, Families and Education, Department of
Defense; Preston Taylor, Assistant Secretary, Veterans Employment and
Training, Department of Labor; Steve Lemons, Deputy Under Secretary, Veterans
Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs; and public witnesses. 

LONG-TERM CARE OPTIONS

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on
Long-Term Care Options. Testimony was heard from Bruce Vladeck, Administrator,
Health Care Financing Administration, Department of Health and Human Services;
and public witnesses. 

DENIAL AND DECEPTION

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Denial and Deception. Testimony was heard from departmental
witnesses. 



1996/04/19
Daily Digest - Friday, April 19, 1996;  pages D340 - D346

Committee Meetings

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
and on the National Eye Institute. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Health and Human Services; Claude J.M. Lenfant,
M.D., Director, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; and Carl Kupfer,
M.D., Director, National Eye Institute. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation held a hearing on
the FAA. Testimony was heard from David R. Hinson, Administrator, FAA,
Department of Transportation. 

VETERANS' AFFAIRS, HUD, AND INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Veterans' Affairs, Housing and
Urban Development, and Independent Agencies held a hearing on the Court of
Veterans Appeals, the American Battle Monuments Commission and the Department
of Defense--Civil, Cemeterial Expenses, Army. Testimony was heard from Frank
Q. Nebeker, Chief Judge, U.S. Court of Veterans Appeals; Gen. Fred F. Woerner,
USA (Ret.), Chairman, American Battle Monuments Commission; and H. Martin
Lancaster, Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works), Department of
Defense. 



1996/04/22
Daily Digest - Monday, April 22, 1996;  pages D347 - D350

Committee Meetings

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on National Institute of Neurological Disorders
and Stroke; the National Institute on Mental Health; the National Institute on
Drug Abuse; and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Health
and Human Services; Zach W. Hall, M.D., Director, National Institute on
Neurological Disorders and Stroke; Stephen M. Hyman, M.D., Director, National
Institute of Mental Health; Alan I. Leshner, M.D., Director, National
Institute on Drug Abuse; and Enoch Gordis, M.D., Director, National Institute
on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
 
ROE v. WADE 

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution held an oversight
hearing regarding the origins and scope of Roe v. Wade. Testimony was heard
from public witnesses. 



1996/04/23
Daily Digest - Tuesday, April 23, 1996;  pages D352 - D360

Committee Meetings

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE AND JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, and
Judiciary held a hearing on the SBA, the Minority Business Development Agency,
and the Economic Development Administration. Testimony was heard from Philip
Lader, Administrator, SBA; and the following officials of the Department of
Commerce: Phillip A. Singerman, Assistant Secretary, Economic Development,
Economic Development Administration; and Joan Parrott-Fonseca, Director,
Minority Business Development Agency. 

INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior held a hearing on the
Smithsonian Institution and on the Fish and Wildlife Service. Testimony was
heard from I. Michael Heyman, The Secretary, Smithsonian Institution; and the
following officials of the Department of the Interior: George T. Frampton,
Jr., Assistant Secretary, Fish and Wildlife and Parks; and John Rogers,
Assistant Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on the National Institute of Allergy and
Infectious Diseases, the National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney
Diseases, the National Center for Human Genome Research, the National
Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders and the Office of AIDS
Research. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of Health and Human Services: Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., Director, National
Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases; Phillip E. Gordon, M.D.,
Director, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases;
Francis S. Collins, M.D., Director, National Center for Human Genome Research;
James B. Snow, Jr., M.D., Director, National Institute on Deafness and Other
Communication Disorders; and William E. Paul, M.D., Director, Office of AIDS
Research, NIH. 

NATIONAL SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security met in
executive session to hold a hearing on the National Guard and Reserve
Programs. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of Defense: Lt. Gen. Edward D. Baca, USA, Chief, National Guard Bureau; Maj.
Gen. William A. Navas, Jr., USA, Director, Army National Guard; Maj. Gen.
Donald W. Shepperd, USAF, Director, Air National Guard; Maj. Gen. Max Baratz,
USA, Chief, Army Reserve; RAdm. Thomas F. Hall, USN, Director Naval Reserve;
Brig. Gen. Ronald G. Richard, USMC, Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff, Manpower
and Reserve Affairs; and Maj. Gen. Robert A. McIntosh, USAF, Chief, Air Force
Reserve. 

                                          [Page: D357]

TREASURY, POSTAL SERVICE, AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Treasury, Postal Service, and
General Government held a hearing on Reforming the Grievance Process.
Testimony was heard from John Koskinen, Deputy Director, Management, OMB;
Phyllis N. Segal, Chair, Federal Labor Relations Authority; Ben Erdreich,
Chairman, Merit Systems Protection Board; Allan Heuerman, Associate Director,
Human Resources Systems Service, OPM; and Kathleen Day Koch, Special Counsel,
Office of Special Counsel. 

VETERANS' AFFAIRS-HUD-INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on VA, HUD, and Independent Agencies
held a hearing on the Department of Veterans Affairs. Testimony was heard from
Jesse Brown, Secretary of Veterans Affairs. 

FURTHER CONTINUING APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a closed rule providing for
consideration in the House of H.J. Res. 175, making further continuing
appropriations for fiscal year 1996, with one hour of debate equally divided
between the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on
Appropriations. The rule strikes title II of the joint resolution. The rule
provides for ordering the previous question without intervening motion except
one motion to recommit which, if containing instructions, may only be offered
by the Minority Leader or his designee. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Leach, Gekas, and Dickey. 

HIGHER EDUCATION

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on
Postsecondary Education, Training and Lifelong Learning held a hearing on
Higher Education: Who Plays, Who Pays, Who Goes. Testimony was heard from
David A. Longanecker, Assistant Secretary, Postsecondary Education, Department
of Education; Margot A. Schenet, Specialist in Social Legislation, Education
and Public Welfare Division, Congressional Research Service, Library of
Congress; and public witnesses. 

FEDERAL BUDGET AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT REFORM

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information, and Technology held a hearing on Federal Budget and
Financial Management Reform. Testimony was heard from Representatives Saxton
and Wise; James L. Blum, Deputy Director, CBO; Charles A. Bowsher, Comptroller
General, GAO; G. Edward DeSeve, Controller, Office of Federal Financial
Management, OMB; George Munoz, Assistant Secretary, Management, and Chief
Financial Officer, Department of the Treasury; Donald R. Wurtz, Chief
Financial Officer, Department of Education; and public witnesses. 

U.S. POLICY TOWARD BOSNIA

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on U.S. Policy Toward
Bosnia. Testimony was heard from Peter Tarnoff, Under Secretary, Political
Affairs, Department of State; Thomas Longstreth, Director, Bosnia Task Force,
Office of the Secretary, Department of Defense; and Thomas Dine, Assistant
Administrator, Europe and the New Independent States, AID, U.S. International
Development Cooperation Agency. 

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC MAPPING REAUTHORIZATION ACT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources held a
hearing on H.R. 3198, National Geologic Mapping Reauthorization Act of 1996.
Testimony was heard from P. Patrick Leahy, Chief Geologist, U.S. Geological
Survey, Department of the Interior; and public witnesses. 

SOUTHERN NEVADA PUBLIC LAND MANAGEMENT ACT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Lands
held a hearing on H.R. 3127, Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act of
1996. Testimony was heard from Senator Bryan; Michael Dombeck, Acting
Director, Bureau of Land Management, Department of the Interior and public
witnesses. 

NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE IMPROVEMENT ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
debate on H.R. 1675, National Wildlife Refuge Improvement Act of 1995. The
rule makes the amendment in the nature of a substitute by Rep. Young of Alaska
printed in the Congressional Record on April 16 as amendment numbered 1 in
order as an original bill for the purpose of amendment under the five-minute
rule. The rule provides that each section of the amendment in the nature of a
substitute be considered as read. All points or order against the amendment in
the nature of a substitute for failure to comply with the provisions of clause
7 of rule XVI (germaneness) are waived. The rule accords priority in
recognition to Members who have pre-printed their amendments in the
Congressional Record . The amendments shall be considered as read. Finally,
the rule provides one D358motion to recommit, with or without instructions.
Testimony was heard from Chairman Young. 

                                          [Page: D358]

PAPERWORK ELIMINATION ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
debate on H.R. 2715, Paperwork Elimination Act of 1996. The rule makes in
order an amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee
on Small Business now printed in the bill as an original bill for the purpose
of amendment under the five-minute rule. The rule accords priority in
recognition to those Members who have pre-printed their amendments in the
Congressional Record . The amendments shall be considered as read. Finally,
the rule provides one motion to recommit, with or without instructions.
Testimony was heard from Chairman Meyers. 

PROPOSED ANTIDUMPING REGULATIONS

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Trade held a hearing on
Department of Commerce proposed antidumping regulations and other antidumping
issues. Testimony was heard from Representatives Visclosky and Peterson of
Florida; Susan G. Esserman, Assistant Secretary, Import Administration,
Department of Commerce, Jan Paul Acton, Assistant Director, CBO; Robert
Ragowsky, Director, Operations, U.S. International Trade Commission; and
public witnesses. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS; COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 

The Committee also met in executive session to hold a hearing on Community
Management. Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses. 



1996/04/24
Daily Digest - Wednesday, April 24, 1996;  pages D361 - D370

Committee Meetings

FOREIGN MEAT AND POULTRY INSPECTION

Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry held a
hearing on meat and poultry inspection in foreign countries; comparison to
Federal and State inspection; and requirements of trade agreements. Testimony
was heard from Tom Billy, Administrator, Food Safety and Inspection Service,
USDA; and public witnesses. 

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE, AND JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State and the
Judiciary held a hearing on the Office of Justice Programs and the Office of
Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Justice: Laurie Robinson, Assistant
Attorney General, Office of Justice Programs; and Shey Bilchik, Administrative
Officer, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. 

FOREIGN OPERATIONS, EXPORT FINANCING AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Foreign Operations, Export
Financing and Related Programs held a hearing on AID Administrator. Testimony
was heard from J. Brian Atwood, Administrator, AID, U.S. International
Development Cooperation Agency. 

INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior held a hearing on
Secretary of Interior and on Bureau of Land Management. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of the Interior: Bruce Babbitt,
Secretary; and Michael Dombeck, Acting Administrator, Bureau of Land
Management. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education, on National Cancer Institute and Fogarty International Center,
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, the National Center for
Research Resources, and the National Library of Medicine. Testimony was heard
from Richard D. Klausner, M.D., Director, National Cancer Institute; Philip E.
Schambra, M.D., Director, Fogarty International Center; Kenneth Olden, M.D.,
Director, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences; Judith L.
D366Vaitukaitis, M.D., Director, National Center for Research Resources; and
Donald A. Lindberg, M.D., Director, National Library of Medicine. 

                                          [Page: D366]

NATIONAL SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security held a hearing
on Defense Medical Programs and Readiness. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Defense: Stephen C. Joseph, Assistant
Secretary, Health Affairs; Maj. Gen. John J. Cuddy, USA, Deputy Surgeon
General, Army; VAdm. Harold M. Koenig, USN, Surgeon General, Navy; Lt. Gen.
Edgar R. Anderson, USAF, Surgeon General, Air Force; Gen. Ronald H. Griffith,
USA, Vice Chief of Staff, Army; Gen. Thomas S. Moorman, Jr., USAF, Vice Chief
of Staff, Air Force; Adm. Jay L. Johnson, USN, Vice Chief, Naval Operations;
and Gen. Richard Hearney, USMC, Assistant Commandant, Marine Corps. 

TREASURY, POSTAL SERVICE, AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Treasury, Postal Service, and
General Government held a hearing on OMB. Testimony was heard from Alice M.
Rivlin, Director, OMB. 

VETERANS' AFFAIRS-HUD-INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Veterans' Affairs, Housing and
Urban Development held a hearing on the Council on Environmental Quality, the
Selective Service System and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Testimony was heard from Kathleen A. McGinty, Chair, Council on Environmental
Quality; Gil Coronado, Director, Selective Service System; and James Lee Witt,
Director, FEMA. 

ATM SURCHARGES

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Financial
Institutions and Consumer Credit held a hearing on ATM Surcharges. Testimony
was heard from Representatives Schumer, Waters, Sanders, Fields of Louisiana
and Hinchey; and public witnesses. 

Hearings continue tomorrow. 

DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY--TRAVEL EXPENDITURES

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations continued
hearings on the Department of Energy: Travel Expenditures and Related Issues.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the GAO: JayEtta Z.
Hecker, Associate Director, International Relations and Trade Issues; Stephen
M. Lord, Senior Evaluator, International Relations and Trade, National
Security and Internal Affairs Division; and Ernie E. Jackson, Senior Attorney,
Office of General Counsel; and the following officials of the Department of
Energy: Dirk Forrister, Assistant Secretary, Congressional, Public, and
Intergovernmental Affairs; Steven Lee, Economist, Office on Energy Exports and
Eric J. Fygi, Deputy General Counsel. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on Early
Childhood, Youth and Families approved for full Committee action the following
bills: H.R. 3268, IDEA Improvement Act of 1996; and H.R. 3269, Impact Aid
Technical Amendments Act of 1996. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Ordered reported the following
bills: H.R. 2700, amended, to designate the United States Post Office building
located at 7980 FM 327, Elmendorf, Texas, as the "Amos F. Longoria Post Office
Building;" H.R. 3184, Single Audit Act Amendments of 1996; and H.R. 2086,
amended, Local Empowerment and Flexibility Act of 1996. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on the Judiciary: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 3235,
Office of Government Ethics Authorization Act of 1996; H.R. 2137, amended,
Megan's Law; H.R. 2453, amended, Fugitive Detention Act of 1995; H.R. 2641,
amended, United States Marshals Service Improvement Act of 1995; H.R. 2650,
amended, Mandatory Federal Prison Drug Treatment Act of 1995; H.R. 2803,
Anti-Car Theft Improvement Act of 1995; H.R. 2974, amended, Crimes Against
Children and Elderly Persons Punishment and Prevention Act of 1995; H.R. 2908,
amended, Interstate Stalking Punishment and Prevention Act of 1996; H.R. 3120,
amended, to amend title 18, United States Code, with respect to witness
retaliation, witness tampering and jury tampering; and H.R. 2297, amended, to
codify without substantive change laws related to transportation and to
improve the Untied States Code. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Installations and
Facilities approved for full Committee action H.R. 3230, National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997. 

                                          [Page: D367]

MARITIME ADMINISTRATION AND PANAMA CANAL COMMISSION AUTHORIZATIONS

Committee on National Security: Special Oversight Panel on the Merchant Marine
approved for full Committee action recommendations regarding the following
bills: H.R. 3281, Maritime Administration Authorization Act for Fiscal Year
1997; and H.R. 3282, Panama Canal Commission Authorization Act, Fiscal Year
1997. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Special Oversight Panel on Morale, Welfare and
Recreation approved for full Committee action recommendations regarding H.R.
3230, National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997. 

OVERSIGHT--DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR

Committee on Resources: Held an oversight hearing on the Department of
Interior activities, programs, and fiscal year 1997 budget. Testimony was
heard from Bruce Babbitt, Secretary of the Interior. 

PROVIDING EXPEDITED PROCEDURES

Committee on Rules: Ordered reported, by voice vote, a resolution waiving
clause 4(b) of rule XI (requiring a \2/3\ vote to consider a rule on the same
day it is reported from the Committee on Rules) against certain resolutions
reported by the Committee on Rules before April 27, 1996. The waiver applies
to special rules providing for consideration or disposition of any measures,
amendments thereto, conference reports thereon, or amendments reported in
disagreement from a conference that: (1) make general appropriations for the
fiscal year 1996; or (2) include provisions making further continuing
appropriations for fiscal year 1996. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Science: Ordered reported the following: H.R. 3060, Antarctic
Environmental Protection Act of 1996; and, as amended the Omnibus Civilian
Science Authorization Act of 1996. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 

FEDERAL BUILDING SECURITY

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Public
Buildings and Economic Development held a hearing on Federal Building
Security. Testimony was heard from David Barram, Acting Administrator, GSA;
the following officials of the Department of Justice; Eugene Coon, Jr.,
Associate Director, Operations, U.S. Marshals Service; William O'Hanlon,
Section Chief, Facilities, Management, and Security Section and Robert Opfer,
Section Chief, Security Counter Measures Section, both with the FBI; and Bruce
Bowen, Deputy Assistant Director, Office of Investigations, U.S. Secret
Service, Department of the Treasury. 

COMMUNITY CARE CLINICS

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Hospitals and Health Care held
an oversight hearing concerning the effectiveness of community care clinics.
Testimony was heard from the following officials with the Health Care Delivery
and Quality Issues, Health, Education, and Human Services Division, GAO; David
P. Baine, Director; and Paul Reynolds, Assistant Director; and the following
officials of the Department of Veterans Affairs: Kenneth Kizer, M.D., Under
Secretary, Health, Veterans Health Administration; Jule D. Moravec, Chief
Network Officer; Denis J. Fitgerald, M.D., Director, Veterans Integrated
Service Network #1; Sanford M. Garfunkel, Director, VA Medical Center,
Washington, D.C., and Y.C. Parris, Director, VA Medical Center, Amarillo,
Texas. 

REPLACING THE FEDERAL INCOME TAX--IMPACT ON SMALL BUSINESS

Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing on the impact on small business of
replacing the Federal Income Tax. Testimony was heard from Representatives Sam
Johnson of Texas and Meyers of Kansas; public witnesses. 



1996/04/25
Daily Digest - Thursday, April 25, 1996;  pages D371 - D382

Committee Meetings

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE, AND THE JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State and the
Judiciary held a hearing on the Federal Maritime Commission and Maritime
Administration; the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission; the Commerce
Department Inspector General and Commerce Department Under Secretary for
Technology; the National Institute of Standards and Technology; and the Patent
and Trademark Office. Testimony was heard from Harold J. Creel, Jr., Chairman,
Federal Maritime Commission; Albert J. Herberger, Administrator, Maritime
Administration, Department of Transportation; Gilbert F. Casellas, Chairman,
EEOC; and the following officials of the Department of Commerce: Frank
DeGeorge, Inspector General; Mary Good, Under Secretary, Technology; Arati
Prabhaker, Director, National Institute of Standards and Technology; and Bruce
Lehman, Assistant Secretary and Commissioner of Patents. 

FOREIGN OPERATIONS, EXPORT FINANCING AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Foreign Operations, Export
Financing and Related Agencies continued appropriation hearings. Testimony was
heard from Members of Congress and public witnesses. 

INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior held a hearing on the
Secretary of Energy and on the Forest Service. Testimony was heard from Hazel
R. O'Leary, Secretary of Energy; and the following officials of the USDA:
James Lyons, Under Secretary; and Jack Thomas, Chief, Forest Service. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on the National Institute of Child Health and
Human Development, the National Institution of General Medical Sciences,
Buildings and Facilities, and on the Office of the Director. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of Health and Human
Services: Duane Alexander, M.D., Director, National Institute of Child Health
and Human Development; Marvin Cassman, M.D., Acting Director, National
Institute of General Medicine Sciences; Stephen A. Ficca, Associate Director,
Research Services, NIH; and Ruth Kirschstein, Deputy Director, NIH. 

TREASURY, POSTAL SERVICE, AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Treasury, Postal Service and
General Government held a hearing on the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and
Firearms Operations. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of the Treasury: James E. Johnson, Assistant Secretary, Treasury
Law Enforcement; and John Magaw, Director, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and
Firearms; and Norman J. Rabkin, Director, Administration of Justice Issues
GAO. 

                                          [Page: D376]

VETERANS' AFFAIRS-HUD-INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Veterans' Affairs, Housing and
Urban Development, and Independent Agencies held a hearing on NASA. Testimony
was heard from Daniel S. Goldin, Administrator, NASA. 

INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS AUTHORIZATION

Committee on Banking and Financial Institutions: Subcommittee on Domestic and
International Monetary Policy held a hearing on the Administration's
authorization requests for International Financial Institutions. Testimony was
heard from Jeffrey R. Schafer, Assistant Secretary, International Affairs,
Department of the Treasury; and Joan E. Spero, Under Secretary, Economic and
Agriculture Affairs, Department of State. 

ATM SURCHARGES

Committee on Banking and Financial Institutions: Subcommittee on Financial
Institutions and Consumer Credit continued hearings on ATM Surcharges.
Testimony was heard from Lawrence B. Lindsey, member, Board of Governors,
Federal Reserve System; John Traier, Acting Commissioner, Department of
Banking, State of New Jersey; and public witnesses. 

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR--ABUSE OF POWER

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on Oversight
and Investigations held a hearing on the Abuse of Power at the Department of
Labor. Testimony was heard from Charles Masten, Inspector General, Department
of Labor; and a public witness. 

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT AND ACCOUNTING REFORM

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information, and Technology held a hearing on Financial Management
and Accounting Reform. Testimony was heard from Representative Campbell;
Ronald C. Moe, Specialist, Congressional Research Service, Library of
Congress; and public witnesses. 

FOREIGN ASSISTANCE BUDGET REQUEST

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on the Administration's
Foreign Assistance Budget Request for Fiscal Year 1997. Testimony was heard
from J. Brian Atwood, Administrator, AID, U.S. International Development
Cooperation Agency. 

FAN FREEDOM AND COMMUNITY PROTECTION ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Ordered reported as amended H.R. 2740, Fan Freedom
and Community Protection Act of 1995. 

CAPTIVE EXOTIC ANIMAL PROTECTION ACT OF 1995

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime held a hearing on H.R. 1202,
Captive Exotic Animal Protection Act of 1995. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Brown of California, Fields of Texas, Geren of Texas, Goss,
Brewster and Smith of Texas; Thomas J. Streigler, Acting Chief, Division of
Law Enforcement, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior;
and public witnesses. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Personnel approved
for full Committee action as amended H.R. 3230, National Defense Authorization
Act for Fiscal Year 1997. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Readiness approved
for full Committee action as amended H.R. 3230, National Defense Authorization
Act for Fiscal Year 1997. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 3286,
amended, Adoption Promotion and Stability Act of 1996; H.R. 2982, Carbon Hill
National Fish Hatchery Conveyance Act; H.R. 2464, to amend Public Law 103-93
to provide additional lands within the State of Utah for the Goshute Indian
Reservation; H.R. 2560, amended, to provide for conveyances of certain lands
in Alaska to Chickaloon-Moose Creek Native Association, Inc., Ninilchik Native
Association, Inc., Seldovia Native Association, Inc., Tyonek Native Corp., and
Knikatnu, Inc. under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act and S. 1459,
Public Rangelands Management Act of 1996. 
 
The Committee also approved a motion to authorize the issuance of a subpoena
to compel the appearance of a witness. 
 
CONFERENCE REPORT--BALANCED BUDGET DOWNPAYMENT ACT, II

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a rule waiving all points of order
against the conference report to accompany H.R. 3019, making further
appropriations for fiscal year 1996 to make a further downpayment toward a
balanced budget, and against its consideration. The rule provides that the
conference report shall be considered as read. Testimony D377was heard from
Chairman Livingston and Representative Obey. 

                                          [Page: D377]

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY ISSUES

Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing on intellectual property issues of
importance to small business, with emphasis on examining different approaches
to pressing patent term and patent disclosure issues that are contained in
pending legislation (H.R. 359 and H.R. 1733). Testimony was heard from public
witnesses. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 

COAST GUARD AND MARITIME COMMISSION AUTHORIZATIONS

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Coast Guard
and Maritime Transportation held a hearing on the Coast Guard Budget
Authorization for Fiscal Year 1997 and the Federal Maritime Commission Budget
Authorization for Fiscal Year 1997. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation: Adm. Robert
Kramek, USCG, Commandant; and Eric A. Trent, USCG, Master Chief Petty Officer;
Gerald L. Dillingham, Associate Director, Transportation and
Telecommunications Issues, Resources, Community, and Economic Development
Division, GAO; Harold J. Creel, Jr., Chairman, Federal Maritime Commission;
and a public witness. 

TRANSIT PROJECTS

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Surface
Transportation held a hearing to review unauthorized Transit Projects and
Legislative requests for fiscal year 1997. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Romero-Barcelo, Costello, Mica, McCollum, Dornan, Eddie
Bernice Johnson of Texas. Frost, Hayes, Jefferson, Portman, Bunning of
Kentucky, Lucas, Furse, Ford, Deutsch, Johnston, Diaz-Balart, Ros-Lehtinen,
Coyne, Mascara, Geren of Texas, McKinney, Gibbons, Schafer, Shaw and Meek of
Florida; from the following officials of the Department of Transportation:
Gordon J. Linton, Administrator, Federal Transit Administration, and Jack
Basso, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Budget and Programs, Office of the
Secretary; 

TAX DEBT COLLECTION

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Oversight held a hearing on Tax
Debt Collection Issues. Testimony was heard from Representatives Jacobs,
Ensign, Horn and Maloney; the following officials of the Department of the
Treasury: Cynthia G. Beerbower, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Tax Policy; and
James E. Donelson, Chief Taxpayer Service/Acting Chief Compliance Officer,
IRS; Lynda Willis, Director, Tax Policy and Administration Issues, GAO; Gene
Gavin, Commissioner, Department of Revenue Services, State of Connecticut;
Thomas Hoatlin, Commissioner of Revenue, Bureau of Revenue, State of Michigan;
and public witnesses. 

PERISHABLE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Trade held a hearing on H.R.
2795, to amend the Trade Act of 1974 and the Tariff Act of 1930 to clarify the
definitions of domestic industry and like articles in certain investigations
involving perishable agricultural products. Testimony was heard from Senator
Graham; Representatives Goss, Pastor, Canady, Miller and Deutsch; Jennifer
Hillman, General Counsel, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative; Becky
Doyle, Director, Department of Agriculture, State of Illinois; Martha Roberts,
Deputy Director, Food Safety, Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services,
State of Florida; and public witnesses. 

BOSNIA ARMS BRIEFING; UNWARNED SENSORS BRIEFING

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
briefing on Bosnia Arms. The Committee was briefed by a departmental witness. 

The Committee also met in an executive session to receive a briefing on
Unwarned Sensors. The Committee was briefed by departmental witnesses. 



1996/04/29
Daily Digest - Monday, April 29, 1996;  pages D384 - D388

Committee Meetings

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: On April 26, the Subcommittee on Labor, Health
and Human Services, and Education held a hearing on the National Institute of
Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, the National Institute on
Aging, the National D386Institute of Dental Research and the National
Institute of Nursing Research. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Health and Human Services: Stephen I. Katz,
M.D., Director, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin
Diseases; Richard J. Hodes, M.D., Director, National Institute on Aging;
Harold C. Slavkin, M.D., Director, National Institute of Dental Research; and
Patricia A. Grady, M.D., Director, National Institute of Nursing Research. 

                                          [Page: D386]

OVERSIGHT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution held an oversight
hearing regarding Assisted Suicide in the United States. Testimony was heard
from public witnesses. 



1996/04/30
Daily Digest - Tuesday, April 30, 1996;  pages D390 - D398

Committee Meetings

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE, AND THE JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, and the
Judiciary held a hearing on National Oceanographic and Atmospheric
Administration; Marine Mammal Commission; State, Oceans and Environmental
Science, Fisheries and on the USIA. Testimony was heard from D. James Baker,
Under Secretary, Oceans and Atmosphere, Department of Commerce; Eileen B.
Clausen, Assistant Secretary, Oceans and Environmental Science and Scientific
Affairs, Department of State; John E. Reynolds, Chairman, Marine Mammal
Commission; and the following officials of the USIA: Joseph D. Duffey,
Director; and David W. Burke, Chairman, Broadcasting Board of Governors. 

FOREIGN OPERATIONS APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Foreign Operations, Export
Financing and Related Programs held a hearing on Security Assistance.
Testimony was heard from Lynn Davis, Under Secretary, Arms Control and
International Security Affairs, Department of State; and Walt Slocombe, Under
Secretary, Policy, Department of Defense. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on Agency for Health Care Policy and Research,
Health Care Financing Administration, and on SSA. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Health and Human Services: Clifton R.
Gaus, Administrator, Agency for Health Care Policy and Research; and Bruce C.
Vladek, Administrator, Health Care Financing Administration; and Shirley S.
Chater, Commissioner, Social Security, SSA. 

TREASURY, POSTAL SERVICE, AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Treasury, Postal Service, and
General Government concluded appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from
Congressional and public witnesses. 

VETERANS AFFAIRS-HUD-INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Veterans' Affairs, Housing and
Urban Development, and Independent Agencies held a hearing on Community
Development Financial Institutions, the National Credit Union Administration,
the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation, and the Office of Science and
Technology Policy. Testimony was heard from Kirsten Moy, Director, Community
Development Financial Institutions, Department of the Treasury; Norman E.
D'Amours, Chairman, National Credit Union Administration, George Knight,
Director, Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation; and John H. Gibbons,
Director, Office of Science and Technology Policy. 

FINANCIAL INSTITUTION REGULATORY SYSTEM

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Held a hearing on the Federal
financial institution regulatory system. Testimony was heard from Edward W.
Kelley, Jr., member, Board of Governors, Federal D395Reserve System; and
following officials of the Department of the Treasury: Eugene Ludwig,
Comptroller, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency; and Jonathan Fiechter,
Acting Director, Office of Thrift Supervision; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D395]

Hearings continue May 2. 

JUVENILE JUSTICE AND DELINQUENCY PREVENTION ACT

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on Early
Childhood, Youth and Families held a hearing on Youth Violence, Gangs and the
Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act. Testimony was heard from
Representatives McCollum and Waters; Tom Corbett, Attorney General, State of
Pennsylvania; and public witnesses. 

VETERANS PREFERENCES

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Civil Service
held a hearing on Veterans Preference. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Buyer and Fox; and public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT--GAO

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information and Technology held an oversight hearing on the GAO.
Testimony was heard from John Koskinen, Deputy/Director, Management, OMB;
Charles A. Bowsher, Comptroller General, GAO; and public witnesses. 

TEEN PREGNANCY PREVENTION

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Human Resources
and Intergovernmental Relations held a hearing on Preventing Teen Pregnancy:
Coordinating Community Efforts. Testimony was heard from Representatives
Clayton and Johnson of Connecticut; Henry Foster, Jr., M.D., Senior Advisor to
the President on Teen Pregnancy, White House Liaison to the National Campaign
to Prevent Teen Pregnancy; Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, Lt. Gov., State of
Maryland; and public witnesses. 

RUSSIAN ORGANIZED CRIME

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on the Threat from
Russian organized Crime. Testimony was heard from John Deutch, Director, CIA;
Louis Freeh, Director, FBI, Department of Justice; Eric Seidel, Deputy
Attorney General in Charge, Organized Crime Task Force, State of New York; and
a public witness. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Procurement approved
for full Committee action H.R. 3230, National Defense Authorization Act for
Fiscal Year 1997. 

DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Research and
Development approved for full Committee action as amended H.R. 3230, National
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997. 

OVERSIGHT--FOREST SERVICE RIVER MANAGEMENT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands held
an oversight hearing on the Forest Service's river management policies for the
Green River and Hells Canyon. Testimony was heard from the following officials
of the USDA: James R. Lyons, Under Secretary, Natural Resources and
Environment; Jack Ward Thomas, Chief, Forest Service; Lyle Laverty, Director,
Recreation, Heritage and Wilderness Resources Management; Bert Kulesza, Forest
Supervisor, Ashley National Forest; and Bob Richmond, Forest Supervisor,
Wallowa-Whitman National Forest; and public witnesses. 

OCEAN SHIPPING REFORM ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
debate on H.R. 2149, Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1995. The rule provides for
the consideration of a manager's amendment to be printed in part 1 of the
report of the Committee on Rules to accompany the resolution, which is
considered as read, may amend portions of the bill not yet read for amendment,
is debatable for 10 minutes equally divided between the proponent and an
opponent, and shall not be subject to amendment or to a division of the
question. 

If adopted, the amendment is considered as part of the base text for further
amendment purposes. The rule waives clause 7 of rule XVI (germaneness) against
the manager's amendment printed in part 1 of the report. The rule provides
that the bill, as amended, shall be considered by title rather than by
section, and that the first section and each title shall be considered as
read. 

The rule authorizes the Chair to accord priority in recognition to Members who
have preprinted their amendments in the Congressional Record. The rule further
provides that the amendment be printed in part 2 of the report shall be
considered as read, may amend portions of the bill to yet read for amendment,
shall not be subject to amendment, and shall not be subject to a demand for a
division of the question in the House or in the Committee of the Whole.
Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit, with or without
instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman Shuster and Representatives
Coble, Oberstar, and Stupak. 

                                          [Page: D396]

UNITED STATES MARSHALS SERVICE IMPROVEMENT ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
debate on H.R. 2641, United States Marshals Service Improvement Act of 1996.
The rule makes in order the Judiciary Committee amendment in the nature of a
substitute as an original bill for the purpose of amendment, and provides that
each section shall be considered as read. The rule authorizes the Chair to
accord priority in recognition to members who have preprinted their amendments
in the Congressional Record, if otherwise consistent with the House rules, and
provides that preprinted amendments shall be considered as read. The rule
provides one motion to recommit, with or without instructions. Finally, the
rule provides that after passage of the House bill, it will be in order to
take up the Senate bill, to, move to insert the House-passed provisions in the
Senate bill, and to move to request a conference with the Senate. Testimony
was heard from Representative McCollum. 

UNITED STATES AVIATION RELATIONSHIP WITH THE U.K. AND JAPAN

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation
continued hearings on Problems in the U.S. Aviation Relationship with the
United Kingdom and Japan. Testimony was heard from Charles A. Hunnicutt,
Assistant Secretary, Aviation and International Affairs, Department of
Transportation; and public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Compensation, Pension,
Insurance, and Memorial Affairs held a hearing on access to treatment and
compensation for veterans exposed to ionizing radiation. Testimony was heard
from John R. Vogel, Under Secretary, Benefits, Department of Veterans Affairs;
Joan Ma Pierre, Director, Electronics and Systems, Defense Nuclear Agency,
Department of Defense; and public witnesses. 

FUTURE DIRECTIONS IN THE MEDICARE PROGRAM

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on
recommendations regarding future directions in the Medicare program. Testimony
was heard from Representative Shays; Joseph P. Newhouse, Chairman, Prospective
Payment Assessment Commission; Gail R. Wilensky, Chair, Physician Payment
Review Commission; and Janet L. Shikles, Assistant Comptroller General,
Health, Education, and Human Services Division, GAO. 



1996/05/01
Daily Digest - Wednesday, May 1, 1996;  pages D399 - D408

Committee Meetings

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE, AND JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, and the
Judiciary held a hearing on Federal Law Enforcement: FBI; DEA; U.S. Attorneys,
Criminal Division/Interagency Crime and Drug Enforcement, on International Law
Enforcement: the FBI; the DEA; the Immigration and Naturalization Service; the
Department of State and International Narcotics and Law Enforcement
Affairs/Diplomatic Security. Testimony was heard from the following officials
of the Department of Justice: Louis J. Freeh, Director, FBI; Thomas A.
Constantine, Administrator, DEA; Carol DiBattiste, Director, Executive Office
for U.S. Attorneys; John C. Keeney, Acting Assistant Attorney General,
Criminal Division; Robert S. Gelbard, Assistant Secretary of State,
International Narcotics Law Enforcement Affairs; and Phyllis Coven, Director,
Office of International Affairs, INS. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on the Centers for Disease Control and on the
Health Resources and Services Administration. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Health and Human Services: David
Satcher, M.D., Director, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; and Ciro
V. Sumaya, Administrator, Health Resources and Services Administration. 

NATIONAL SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security continued
appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from Members of Congress and
public witnesses. 

VA-HUD-INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Veterans' Affairs, Housing and
Urban Development, and Independent Agencies held a hearing on the Department
of Housing and Urban Development. Testimony was heard from Henry G. Cisneros,
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. 

NATIONAL CREDIT UNION ADMINISTRATION BOARD MEMBER TERMINATION

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on General Oversight
and Investigations held a hearing regarding the termination of Robert H. Swan
as a member of the Board of the National Credit Union Administration.
Testimony was heard from Louis Fisher, Senior Specialist, American National
Division, Congressional Research Service, Library of Congress; Robert H. Swan,
former member, Board, National Credit Union Administration; and public
witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Power held an oversight
hearing on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's Final Rule on Open
Access Transmission and the Future of Electric Utility Regulation. Testimony
was heard from the following officials of the Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission, Department of Energy: Elizabeth A. Moler, Chair; William L.
Massey, Donald F. Santa, Jr., James J. Hoecker and Vickie A. Bailey, all
Commissioners; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D404]

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Health and Environment held a hearing
on the following bills: H.R. 3199, Drug and Biological Products Reform Act of
1996; H.R. 3200, Food Amendments and Animal Drug Availability Act of 1996; and
H.R. 3201, Medical Device Reform Act of 1996. Testimony was heard from
Representative Fox of Pennsylvania; David A. Kessler, M.D., Commissioner, FDA,
Department of Health and Human Services; and public witnesses. 

Hearings continue tomorrow. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Ordered reported the
following bills: H.R. 2066, amended, to amend the National School Lunch Act to
provide greater flexibility to schools to meet the dietary guidelines for
Americans under the school lunch and school breakfast programs; and H.R. 3269,
Impact Aid Technical Amendments Act of 1996. 

SELECT SUBCOMMITTEE ON U.S. ROLE IN IRANIAN ARMS TRANSFERS

Committee on House Oversight: Ordered reported amended H. Res. 417, providing
amounts for the expenses of the select subcommittee on the United States role
in Iranian arms transfers to Croatia and Bosnia of the Committee on
International Relations in the 2d session of the 104th Congress. 

ANGOLA--ASSESSMENT OF PEACE PROCESS

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Africa held a hearing on
A Current Assessment of the Peace Process in Angola. Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the Department of State: Prudence Bushnell, Deputy
Assistant Secretary, African Affairs; and Ambassador Paul Hare, Special Envoy
to Angola; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on National Security: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R.
3144, to establish a U.S. policy for the deployment of a national missile
defense system; H.R. 3308, to amend title 10, United States Code, to limit the
placement of U.S. forces under U.N. operational or tactical control; H.R.
3281, amended, Maritime Administration Authorization Act for Fiscal Year, 1997; 
and H.R. 3230, amended, National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal
Year 1997. 

SELECT SUBCOMMITTEE ON U.S. ROLE IN IRANIAN ARMS TRANSFERS

Committee on Rules: Held a hearing on H. Res. 416, establishing a select
subcommittee of the Committee on International Relations to investigate the
U.S. role in Iranian arms transfers to Croatia and Bosnia. Testimony was heard
from Representatives Gilman, Hamilton, Hoyer, and Skaggs. 

DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY BUDGET REQUESTS

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment held a hearing on
Department of Energy FY 1997 budget requests for environment, safety and
health, environment restoration and waste management (non-defense) and nuclear
energy. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
Energy: Peter N. Bush, Assistant Secretary, Environment, Safety and Health;
RAdm. Richard J. Guimond, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Environmental
Management; and Terry R. Lash, Director, Office of Nuclear Energy; Bernice
Steinhardt, Associate Director, Resources, Community, and Economic Development
Division, GAO; and public witnesses. 

SMALL BUSINESS' ACCESS TO CAPITAL

Committee on Small Business: Continued hearings on Small Business' Access to
Capital: Role of Banks in Small Business Financing, with emphasis on the
current state of bank lending to small business. Testimony was heard from
Andrew C. Hove, Jr., Vice-Chairman, FDIC; Janet L. Yellen, member, Board of
Governors, Federal Reserve System; and public witnesses. 

CHILD PILOT SAFETY ACT

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing on H.R. 3267, Child Pilot Safety Act. Testimony was heard from
Senator Inhofe; Representative Lightfoot; David R. Hinson, Administrator, FAA,
Department of Transportation; and public witnesses. 

ADOPTION PROMOTION AND STABILITY ACT

Committee on Ways and Means: Ordered reported amended H.R. 3286, Adoption
Promotion and Stability Act of 1996. 

REPLACING THE FEDERAL INCOME TAX--IMPACT ON STATE, LOCAL GOVERNMENTS AND
TAX-EXEMPT ENTITIES

Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing on the Impact on State and Local
Governments and Tax-Exempt Entities of Replacing the Federal Income Tax.
Testimony was heard from J. Kenneth Blackwell, Treasurer, State of Ohio; Peter
Powers, First Deputy Mayor, New York, New York; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D405]

INTELLIGENCE REAUTHORIZATION

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on the Fiscal Year 1997 intelligence authorization, with emphasis on
covert action and legislative issues. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses. 



1996/05/02
Daily Digest - Thursday, May 2, 1996;  pages D409 - D416

Committee Meetings

REVIEW--MEAT AND POULTRY INSPECTION

Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry held a
hearing to review science-based meat and poultry inspection; emerging
technologies; and the approval process for new technology. Testimony was heard
from Tom Billy, Associate Administrator, Food Safety and Inspection Service,
USDA; and public witnesses. 

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE, AND THE JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, and the
Judiciary held a hearing on Commerce Department Statistical Programs,
Undersecretary for Economics and Statistics, Bureau of Census, Bureau of
Economic Analysis, the International Organizations and Conferences, United
States Mission to United Nations, International Organizations and OAS.
Testimony was heard from the following officials from the Department of
Commerce: Everett Ehrlich, Undersecretary, Economic Affairs; Martha Riche,
Director, Bureau of the Census; and Stephen Landefeld, Director, Bureau of
Economic Analysis; and the following officials of the Department of State:
Ambassador Madeleine K. Albright, Permanent Representative to the United
Nations; Ambassador Harriet C. Babbit, Permanent Representative to the OAS;
and Molly Williamson, Assistant Secretary, International Organizations. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service
Administration, on Administration for Children and Families; and the
Administration on Aging. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the Department of Health and Human Services: Nelba Chavez, Administrator,
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration; Mary Jo Bane,
Assistant Secretary, Administration for Children and Families; and Fernando M.
Torres-Gil, Assistant Secretary for Aging. 

VETERANS AFFAIRS-HUD-INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Veterans' Affairs, Housing and
Urban Development, and Independent Agencies held a hearing on the Corporation
for National and Community Service. Testimony was heard from Harris Wofford,
CEO, Corporation for National and Community Service. 

FINANCIAL INSTITUTION REGULATORY SYSTEM

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Continued hearings on the Federal
financial institution regulatory system. Testimony was heard from James L.
Bothwell, Director, Financial Institutions and Market Issues, General
Government Division, GAO; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Health and Environment, concluded
hearings on the following bills: H.R. 3199, Drug and Biological Products
Reform Act of 1996; H.R. 3200, Food Amendments and Animal Drug Availability
Act of 1996; and H.R. 3201, Medical Device Reform Act of 1996. D414Testimony
was heard from Mary Hamilton, Director, Operations, GAO; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D414]

MISCELLANEOUS HEALTH CARE MEASURES

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Human Resources
and Intergovernmental Relations and the Subcommittee on Government Management,
Information and Technology held a joint hearing on H.R. 3224, Health Care
Fraud and Abuse Prevention Act of 1996, H.R. 1850, Health Care Fraud and Abuse
Act of 1995, and H.R. 2480, Inspector General for Medicare and Medicaid Act of
1995. Testimony was heard from Representative Quinn; Michael Mangano, Deputy
Inspector General, Department of Health and Human Services; and public
witnesses. 

ADMINISTRATION'S FOREIGN POLICY RECORD

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on the Administration's
Foreign Policy Record: An Evaluation. Testimony was heard from Robert B.
Zoellick, former Under Secretary, Economics, Department of State; Richard N.
Perle, former Assistant Secretary, International Security Policy, Department
of Defense; and Charles William Maynes, former Assistant Secretary,
International Organizations, Department of State. 

REGULATORY FAIR WARNING ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
held a hearing on H.R. 3307, Regulatory Fair Warning Act. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Justice: James F. Simon,
Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Environment and Natural Resources Division;
and Edward L. Dowd, Jr., U.S. Attorney, Eastern District of Missouri; and
public witnesses. 

PICK-SLOAN REPAYMENT ISSUES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Water and Power Resources held an
oversight hearing on Pick-Sloan Repayment Issues. Testimony was heard from
Victor S. Rezendes, Director, Energy, Resources and Science Issues, Resources,
Community and Economic Development Division, GAO; J.M. Shafer, Administrator,
Western Area Power Administration, Department of Energy; Patricia J. Beneke,
Assistant Secretary, Water and Science, Department of the Interior; and public
witnesses. 

SELECT SUBCOMMITTEE ON U.S. ROLE IN IRANIAN ARMS TRANSFERS

Committee on Rules: By a vote of 7 to 4, the Committee ordered reported H.Res.
416, establishing a select subcommittee of
the Committee on International Relations to investigate the U.S. role in
Iranian arms transfers to Croatia and Bosnia. 

CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN AND ELDERLY PERSONS INCREASED PUNISHMENT ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
debate on H.R. 2974, Crimes Against Children and Elderly Persons Increased
Punishment Act. The rule waives clause 7, rule XIII (requiring a cost estimate
in the committee report) against consideration of the bill. The rule makes in
order as an original bill for the purpose of amendment the amendment in the
nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on the Judiciary now
printed in the bill. The rule provides that each section of the committee
amendment in the nature of a substitute be considered as read. The rule waives
points of order against the amendment printed in the report of the Committee
on Rules for failure to comply with clause 7 of rule XVI (germaneness). The
rule provides that Members who have pre-printed their amendments in the
Congressional Record will be given priority in recognition to offer their
amendments if otherwise consistent with House rules, and said amendments will
be considered as read. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit, with
or without instructions. Testimony was heard from Representatives McCollum,
Fox of Pennsylvania and Schumer. 

WITNESS RETALIATION AND TAMPERING AND JURY TAMPERING

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
debate on H.R. 3120, to amend title 18, United States Code, with respect to
witness retaliation, witness tampering and jury tampering. The rule waives
clause 7, rule XIII (requiring a cost estimate in the committee report)
against consideration of the bill. The rule makes in order as an original bill
for the purpose of amendment, the Judiciary Committee amendment in the nature
of a substitute, which shall be considered as read. The rule provides that
Members who have pre-printed their amendments in the Congressional Record will
be given priority in recognition to offer their amendments and such amendments
shall be considered as read. Testimony was heard from Representatives
McCollum, Fox of Pennsylvania and Schumer. 

U.S. PATENT LAW--IMPLICATIONS FOR ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT R&D

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment held a hearing on
Changes in U.S. Patent Law and their Implications for Energy and Environment
Research and Development. Testimony was heard from Bruce A. Lehman, Assistant
Secretary D415and Commissioner of Patents and Trademarks, Department of
Commerce; Terry Bibbens, Entrepreneur in Residence, Office of Advocacy, SBA;
and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D415]

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Technology held continued oversight
hearings on Research Laboratory Programs at the National Institute of
Standards and Technology, Part 2. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, Department of
Commerce; Katharine Gebbie, Director, Physics Laboratory; and Hratch
Semerjian, Director, Chemical Science and Technology Laboratory; and public
witnesses. 

IMPACT OF SHORT SUPPLY ON SMALL MANUFACTURERS

Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Procurement, Exports, and
Business Opportunities held a hearing on the "Impact of `Short Supply' on
Small Manufacturers." Testimony was heard from Representatives Crane and
Levin; and public witnesses. 

GSA's CAPITAL INVESTMENT PROGRAM

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Public
Buildings and Economic Development held a hearing on GSA's FY 1997 Capital
Investment Program. Testimony was heard from Representative Dooley; Robert
Peck, Commissioner, Public Buildings Service, GSA; and Norman H. Stahl, Judge,
U.S. Court of Appeals, 1st Circuit (New Hampshire) and Member, Committee on
Security, Space, and Facilities, Judicial Conference of the United States. 

ISTEA REAUTHORIZATION

Committee on Transportation: Subcommittee on Surface Transportation held a
hearing on ISTEA Reauthorization: Federal Role for Transportation and National
Interests. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of Transportation: Federico PenAE6a, Secretary; Rodney E. Slater,
Administrator, Federal Highway Administration; Gordon J. Linton,
Administrator, Federal Transit Administration; Ricardo Martinez,
Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; and Jolene M.
Molitoris, Administrator, Federal Railroad Administration; and public
witnesses. 

Hearings continue May 7. 



1996/05/03
Daily Digest - Friday, May 3, 1996;  pages D418 - D424

Committee Meetings 

No Committee meetings were held. 



1996/05/06
Daily Digest - Monday, May 6, 1996;  pages D425 - D428

Committee Meetings

No Committee meetings were held. 



1996/05/07
Daily Digest - Tuesday, May 7, 1996;  pages D429 - D436

Committee Meetings

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE, AND THE JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, and the
Judiciary held a hearing on the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency and on
Telecommunications Issues. Testimony was heard from John D. Holum, Director,
U.S. Arms Control and Disarmament Agency; Reed E. Hunt, D433Chairman, FCC; and
Larry Irving, Assistant Secretary, Communications and Information, Department
of Commerce. 

                                          [Page: D433]

INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior held a hearing on the
Interior Columbia Basin Ecosystem Management Project. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Chenoweth and Hastings of Washington; Jack Ward Thomas, Chief,
Forest Service, USDA; Mike Dombeck, Acting Director, Bureau of Land
Management, Department of the Interior; and public witnesses. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on the Secretary of Labor and the Employment and
Training Administration. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the Department of Labor: Robert B. Reich, Secretary; Timothy M. Barnicle,
Assistant Secretary, Employment and Training; and Preston M. Taylor, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Veterans' Employment and Training. 

TRAVEL AND TOURISM PARTNERSHIP ACT

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Hazardous
Materials approved for full Committee action amended H.R. 2579, Travel and
Tourism Partnership Act. 

OMNIBUS CIVILIAN SCIENCE AUTHORIZATION ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule on H.R. 3322, Omnibus
Civilian Science Authorization Act of 1996 providing one hour of general
debate equally divided and controlled between the chairman and ranking
minority member of the Committee on Science. The rule waives all points of
order against consideration of the bill for failure to comply with clause
2(l)(2) of rule XI (requirement of a quorum to report). The rule provides that
the bill shall be considered by title rather than by section, and that the
first section and each title shall be considered as read. The rule waives
points of order against the bill for failure to comply with clause 5(a) of
rule XXI (appropriations in a legislative bill). The rule provides for the
consideration of a manager's amendment printed in the Rules Committee report,
which shall be considered as read, may amend portions of the bill not yet read
for amendment, shall be debatable for 10 minutes equally divided and
controlled, and shall not be subject to amendment or to a demand for a
division of the question. If adopted, the amendment shall be considered as
original text for amendment purposes. The rule accords priority in recognition
to Members who have pre-printed their amendments in the Congressional Record.
Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit, with or without
instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman Walker and Representative
Brown of California. 

ADOPTION PROMOTION AND STABILITY ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a modified closed rule on H.R.
3286, Adoption Promotion and Stability Act of 1996 providing for consideration
of the bill in the House without intervention of any point of order. The rule
makes in order the Committee on Ways and Means amendment in the nature of a
substitute now printed in the bill. The rule provides one hour of general
debate, equally divided and controlled by the chairman and ranking minority
member of the Committee on Ways and Means. The rule provides for the
consideration of an amendment to title II of the bill, as amended, if offered
by Representative Gibbons of Florida or his designee, which shall be
considered as read and shall be debatable for 30 minutes equally divided
between the proponent and an opponent. The rule provides for the consideration
of the amendment recommended by the Committee on Resources, if offered by
Representative Young of Alaska or his designee, which shall be considered as
read and shall be debatable for 30 minutes equally divided between the
proponent and an opponent. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit,
which may include instructions only if offered by the Minority Leader or his
designee. Testimony was heard from Chairman Archer and Representatives
Oberstar, Lowey, Maloney and Kennedy of Massachusetts. 

U.S HOUSING ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 10 to 1, an open rule on H.R. 2406,
United States Housing Act of 1996, providing one hour of general debate
equally divided between the chairman and ranking minority member of the
Committee on Banking and Financial Services. The rule makes in order the
Committee on Banking and Financial Services amendment in the nature of a
substitute as an original bill for the purpose of amendment and provides that
the committee amendment in the nature of a substitute be considered as read.
The rule waives clause 5(a) of rule XXI (appropriations in a legislative bill)
against the committee amendment in the nature of a substitute. The rule
provides that said substitute shall be considered by title, rather than by
section, and the first two sections and each title shall be considered as
read. The rule makes in order, before the consideration of any other
amendment, an amendment printed in the Congressional Record of May 7,
D4341996, if offered by Representative Lazio of New York or his designee. The
amendment shall be considered as read, shall be debatable for 10 minutes
equally divided and controlled between the proponent and an opponent, shall
not be subject to amendment or to a demand for a division of the question in
the House or in the Committee of the Whole and all points of order against the
amendment are waived. The rule provides that if the amendment is adopted, the
bill, as amended, shall be considered as an original bill for the purpose of
amendment. Members who have pre-printed their amendments in the Congressional
Record shall be accorded priority in recognition to offer their amendments if
otherwise consistent with House rules, and provides that the pre-printed
amendment shall be considered as read. The rule allows the Chairman of the
Committee of the Whole to postpone votes during consideration of the bill, and
to reduce to five minutes on a postponed question if the votes follows a
fifteen minute vote. The rule provides one motion to recommit, with or without
instructions. Finally, the rule provides that after the passage of the House
bill, it will be in order to take up the Senate bill, to move to insert the
House-passed provisions in the Senate bill, and to move to request a
conference with the Senate. Testimony was heard from Representatives Lazio,
Hayworth, Gonzalez, Frank of Massachusetts, Kennedy of Massachusetts,
Gutierrez, Velazquez and Hinchey. 

                                          [Page: D434]

ISTEA REAUTHORIZATION

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Surface
Transportation continued hearings on ISTEA reauthorization: The Federal Role
for Transportation and National Interests. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses. 

Hearings continue May 16. 

INTELLIGENCE AUTHORIZATION ACT

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session and
ordered reported amended H.R. 3259, Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal
Year 1997. 



1996/05/08
Daily Digest - Wednesday, May 8, 1996;  pages D438 - D446

Committee Meetings

USDA--FEDERAL FUNDS TO OBTAIN SERVICES FROM PRIVATE CONTRACTORS

Committee on Agriculture: Held a hearing to investigate the use, by the U.S.
Department of Agriculture, of federal funds authorized under Section 17 of the
Food Stamp Act to obtain services from private contractors. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Resources, Community, and Economic
Development Division, GAO: Keith Fultz, Assistant Comptroller General; Martin
J. Fitzgerald, Associate General Counsel; and Mary L. Dietrich, Senior
Evaluator; Ellen Haas, Under Secretary, Food, Nutrition, and Consumer
Services, USDA; and public witnesses. 

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE, AND THE JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State and the
Judiciary held a hearing on Trade Promotion and Enforcement and on Immigration
and Border Security. Testimony was heard from Charlene Barshefsky, Acting U.S.
Trade Representative; the following officials of the Department of Commerce:
Stuart Eizenstat, Under Secretary, International Trade; and William S.
Reinsch, Under Secretary, Export Administration; Peter S. Watson, Chairman,
U.S. International Trade Commission; Joan Edelman Spero, Under Secretary,
Economics, Business, and Agricultural Affairs, Department of State; the
following officials of the Department of Justice: Doris Meissner,
Commissioner, Immigration and Naturalization Service; and Anthony C. Moscato,
Director, Executive Office for Immigration Review; and Ruth A. Davis,
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Consular Affairs, Department of State. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on all other Department of Labor (except OSHA)
and on Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Occupational Safety
and Health Review Commission. Testimony was heard from Joseph A. Dear,
Assistant Secretary, Occupational Safety and Health, Department of Labor; and
Stuart E. Weisberg, Chairman, Occupational Safety and Health Review
Commission. 

VETERANS AFFAIRS-HUD-INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Veterans' Affairs, Housing and
Urban Development and Independent Agencies continued appropriation hearings.
Testimony was heard from Members of Congress. 

STRATEGIC PETROLEUM RESERVE

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Power held an oversight
hearing on the Future of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Energy; C. Kyle Simpson,
Associate Deputy Secretary, Energy Programs; and Jay E. Hakes, Administrator,
Energy Information Administration; Jan Paul Acton, Assistant Director, Natural
Resources and Commerce Division, CBO; and public witnesses. 

PREVENTION PROGRAMS

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on Early
Childhood, Youth and Families held a hearing on Prevention Programs under the
Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses. 

DOWNSIZING--PERSONNEL ISSUES

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Civil Service
held a hearing on Personnel Issues in Downsizing. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Wolf, Morella, and Hoyer; and public witnesses. 

SUPERFUND

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on National
Economic Growth, Natural Resources, and Regulatory Affairs held a hearing on
Superfund: A Badly Broken Program in Urgent Need of Reform. Testimony was
heard from Representative Mica; Stanley Czerwinski, Associate Director,
Environmental Protection Issues, GAO; John C. Martin, Inspector General, EPA;
and public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT--NATIONAL DRUG CONTROL STRATEGY

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on National
Security, International Affairs and Criminal Justice held an oversight hearing
on the 1996 National Drug Control Strategy. Testimony was heard from Gen.
Barry McCaffrey, USA, Director, Office of National Drug Control Policy. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; SUBPOENAS

Committee on International Relations: Favorably considered the following
resolutions and adopted a motion urging the Chairman to request that they be
considered on the Suspension Calendar: H. Con. Res. 160, congratulating the
people of the Republic of Sierra Leone on the success of their recent
democratic multiparty elections; H. Con. Res. 165, saluting and congratulating
Polish people around the world as, on D443May 3, 1996, they commemorate the
205th anniversary of the adoption of Poland's first constitution; and H. Con.
Res. 167, recognizing the 10th anniversary of the Chernoboyl nuclear disaster,
and supporting the closing of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. 

                                          [Page: D443]

The Committee approved a motion authorizing issuance of subpoenas to compel
testimony and documents from Charles E. Redman, Ambassador to Germany and
Peter W. Galbraith, Ambassador to Croatia. 

The Committee also approved a motion authorizing issuance of a subpoena to
compel testimony and documents from Paul Neifert. 

CRISIS IN LIBERIA

Committee on International Affairs: Subcommittee on Africa held a hearing on
the Crisis in Liberia. Testimony was heard from George Moose, Assistant
Secretary, African Affairs, Department of State; Vince Kern, Deputy Assistant
Secretary, African Affairs, International Security Affairs, Department of
Defense; and a public witness. 

VICTIMS OF TORTURE

Committee on International Affairs: Subcommittee on International Operations
and Human Rights held a hearing on Victims of Torture. Testimony was heard
from public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES 

Committee on Resources: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 2909,
Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge Emminent Domain Prevention
Act; and H.R. 2823, amended, International Dolphin Conservation Program Act. 

BUDGET REQUEST--OFFICE OF ENERGY RESEARCH

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment held a hearing on
the Department of Energy's FY 1997 budget request for the Office of Energy
Research. Testimony was heard from Martha A. Krebs, Director, Office of Energy
Research, Department of Energy; the following officials of various National
Laboratories: John Peoples, Jr., Director, Fermi National Accelerator; David
E. Moncton, Associate Director, Argonne; Alvin W. Trivelpiece, Director, Oak
Ridge; Nicholas P. Samios, Director, Brookhaven; Charles V. Shank, Director,
Lawrence Berkeley; and William J. Madia, Director, Pacific Northwest; and
public witnesses. 

MUSIC LICENSING AND SMALL BUSINESS 

Committee on Small Business: Held an oversight hearing on music licensing and
small business. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS 

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 

VETERANS LEGISLATION

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R.
3118, Veterans' Health Care Eligibility Reform Act of 1996; H.R. 3376,
amended, to authorize major medical facility projects and major medical
facility leases for the Department of Veterans Affairs for fiscal year 1997;
H.R. 3373, Veterans' Benefits Amendments of 1996; and H.R. 1483, to amend
title 38, United States Code, to allow revision of veterans benefits decisions
based on clear and unmistakable error. 

VETERANS MATTERS

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Education, Training,
Employment and Housing and the Subcommittee on Compensation, Pension,
Insurance and Memorial Affairs held a joint oversight hearing on the Court of
Veterans Appeals Pro Bono Program; veterans' COLAs; and the Davenport v. Brown
decision. Testimony was heard from Stephen L. Lemons, Deputy Under Secretary,
Benefits, Department of Veterans Affairs; Frank Q. Nebeker, Chief Judge, U.S.
Court of Veterans Appeals; David B. Isbell, Chairman, Veterans Consortium Pro
Bono Program; and representatives of veterans organizations. 

VETERANS LEGISLATION

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Hospitals and Health Care
approved for full Committee action the following bills: H.R. 3118, Veterans'
Health Care Eligibility Reform Act of 1996; and H.R. 3376, amended, to
authorize major medical facility projects and major medical facility leases
for the Department of Veterans Affairs for fiscal year 1997. 

IMPACT OF 1993 TAX INCREASE ON TRANSPORTATION FUELS

Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing to examine the Impact of the 1993
Tax Increase on Transportation Fuels. Testimony was heard from Representative
Royce; and public witnesses. 



1996/05/09
Daily Digest - Thursday, May 9, 1996;  pages D448 - D456

Committee Meetings

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE, AND THE JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State and the
Judiciary held a hearing on the Secretary of Commerce, the SEC, and the
Department of State Under Secretary for Management. Testimony was heard from
Michael Kantor, Acting Secretary of Commerce; Richard M. Moose, Under
Secretary, Management, Department of State; and Arthur Levitt, Jr., Chairman,
SEC. 

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on the District of Columbia held a
hearing on D.C. Finances. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the District of Columbia: Anthony A. Williams, Chief Financial Officer; and
Angela L. Avant, Inspector General; and a public witness. 

LABOR--HHS--EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on Howard University the Special Institutions for
the Disabled, and on the Secretary of Education. Testimony was heard from H.
Patrick D453Swygert, President, Howard University; and the following officials
of the Department of Education: Judith E. Heumann, Assistant Secretary,
Special Education and Rehabilitative Services; Tuck Tinsley, III, President,
American Printing House for the Blind; James D. DeCaro, Dean and Interim
Director, National Technical Institute for the Deaf; I. King Jordan,
President, Gallaudet University; and Richard W. Riley, Secretary. 

                                          [Page: D453]

VETERANS AFFAIRS--HUD--INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs, Housing and
Urban Development and Independent Agencies held a hearing on the Department of
Housing and Urban Development. Testimony was heard from Henry G. Cisneros,
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. 

CONCURRENT BUDGET RESOLUTION

Committee on the Budget: Began markup of the Concurrent Resolution on the
Budget for Fiscal Year 1997. 

OVERSIGHT--INTERNATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS TRADE ISSUES

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Hazardous
Materials held an oversight hearing on International Telecommunications Trade
Issues. Testimony was heard from Jeffrey Lang, Deputy U.S. Trade
Representative; Reed E. Hundt, Chairman, FCC; and public witnesses. 

IN THE MATTER OF THE WHITE HOUSE TRAVEL OFFICE

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Ordered reported, by a vote of
27 ayes to 19 nays, a resolution concerning proceedings against John M. Quinn,
David Watkins and Matthew Moore, pursuant to Title 2, U.S. Code, Sections 192
and 194. 

OVERSIGHT--AID

Committee on International Relations: Held an oversight hearing on the U.S.
Agency for International Development. Testimony was heard from Jeffrey Rush,
Jr., Inspector General, AID, U.S. International Development Cooperation
Agency. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURE; AFGHANISTAN

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific
approved for full Committee action H. Con. Res. 154, to congratulate the
Republic of China on Taiwan on the occasion of its first Presidential
democratic election. 

The Subcommittee also held a hearing on Afghanistan: Peace or Civil War?
Testimony was heard from Robin L. Raphel, Assistant Secretary, South Asian
Affairs, Department of State; John L. Moore, Defense Intelligence Officer,
Mid-East/South Asia and Terrorism, Defense Intelligence Agency, Department of
Defense; and public witnesses. 

ECONOMIC ESPIONAGE

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime held a hearing regarding
economic espionage. Testimony was heard from Louis J. Freeh, Director, FBI,
Department of Justice; and public witnesses. 

RECOVERY OF MINERALS--DOMESTIC TECHNOLOGICAL CAPABILITIES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources held a
hearing on H.R. 3249, to authorize appropriations for a mining institute to
develop domestic technological capabilities for the recovery of minerals from
the nation's seabed. Testimony was heard from Representative Wicker; Tom
Kitsos, Director, Office of International Activities and Marine Minerals,
Minerals Management Service, Department of the Interior; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans held a
hearing on the following bills: H.R. 2908, Domesticated Salmonid Broodstock
and Seedstock Act of 1996; H.R. 2939, Mississippi Interstate Cooperative
Resource Agreement Act of 1996; and H.R. 1112, to transfer management of the
Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge to the State of Oklahoma. Testimony was
heard from Representatives Brewster, Hastings of Washington and Gunderson; the
following officials of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the
Interior: Nancy Kaufman, Regional Director; and Gary Edwards, Assistant
Director for Fisheries; Don Luchsinger, Deputy Administrator, Veterinary
Services, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, USDA; Greg D. Duffy,
Director, Department of Wildlife Conservation, State of Oklahoma; Gary Myers,
Director, Wildlife Resources Agency, State of Tennessee; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands held
a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 2636, to transfer jurisdiction over
certain parcels of Federal real property located in the District of Columbia;
and H.R. 3006, to provide for disposal of public lands in support of the
Manzanar Historic Site in the State of California. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Lewis of California and Matsui; Denis Galvin, Associate
Director, Planning Professional Services, National Park Service, Department of
the Interior; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D454]

NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a structured rule on H.R. 3230,
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 providing two hours of
general debate equally divided and controlled between the chairman and ranking
minority member of the Committee on National Security. The rule waives all
points of order against the bill and against its consideration. The rule makes
in order the committee amendment in the nature of a substitute now printed in
the bill as an original bill for the purpose of amendment and all points of
order are waived against the amendment in the nature of a substitute. The rule
makes in order only those amendments printed in the report of the Committee on
Rules and the amendments en bloc described in section 3 of the resolution. The
rule provides that, except as specified in section 4 of the resolution,
amendments will be considered only in the order and manner specified in the
report. Except as otherwise provided in the report, amendments shall be
debatable for 10 minutes divided between the proponent and an opponent.
Amendments shall be considered as read and are not amendable (except pro forma
amendments offered by the chairman and ranking minority member of the
Committee on National Security). The rule waives all points of order against
the amendments printed in the report or those described in section 3 of the
resolution. The rule provides for an extra 40 minutes of debate on Cooperative
Threat Reduction with the former Soviet Union (part A). The rule authorizes
the Chairman of the Committee on National Security or his designee to offer
amendments en bloc consisting of amendments in part B of the report or germane
modifications thereto, which shall be considered as read except that
modifications shall be reported, shall be debatable for 20 minutes divided
between the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on National
Security or their designees and which shall not be subject to amendment or
demand for a division of the question. The rule provides that, for the purpose
of inclusion in such amendments en bloc, an amendment printed in the form of a
motion to strike may be modified to the form of a germane perfecting amendment
to the text originally proposed to be stricken. The original proponent of an
amendment included in such amendments en bloc may insert a statement in the
Congressional Record immediately before the disposition of the en bloc
amendments. 

The rule permits the Chairman of the Committee of the Whole to postpone votes
on any amendment and to reduce to 5 minutes the time for voting after the
first of a series of votes provided that the first vote is not less than 15
minutes. The Chairman of the Committee of the Whole is permitted to recognize
for consideration of any amendment printed in the report out of the order in
which printed, but not sooner than one hour after the Chairman of the
Committee on National Security or a designee announces from the floor a
request to that effect. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit,
with or without instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman Spence and
Representatives Dornan, Hefley, Saxton, Torkildsen, Watts of Oklahoma,
Scarborough, Longley, Hastings of Washington, Smith of New Jersey, Bilirakis,
Kolbe, Shays, Upton, Stearns, Klug, Hoke, Horn, Mica, Chenoweth, Foley,
Martini, Neumann, Bunn of Oregon, Dellums, Skelton, Spratt, Pickett, Evans,
Taylor of Mississippi, Harman, McHale, Peterson of Florida, DeLauro, Rose,
Oberstar, Miller of California, Markey, Frank of Massachusetts, Traficant,
Moran, Waters, Farr, Velazquez, McKinney, Luther, Jackson-Lee of Texas and
Furse.  

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; PENDING SURVEY RESOLUTIONS AND PROSPECTUSES

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Ordered reported the
following: H.R. 3029, to designate the United States courthouse in Washington,
District of Columbia, as the "E. Barrett Prettyman United States Courthouse";
H.R. 3134, to designate the U.S. Courthouse under construction at 1030
Southwest 3d Avenue, Portland, OR, as the "Mark O. Hatfield United States
Courthouse"; H. Con. Res. 153, authorizing the use of the Capitol Grounds for
the Greater Washington Soap Box Derby; and H.R. 3159, amended, National
Transportation Safety Board Amendments of 1996. 

The Committee also approved the following: 10 courthouse construction
resolutions; 2 nonconstruction resolutions; and 20 water resource survey
resolutions. 

COAST GUARD MISSIONS'

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Coast Guard
and Maritime Transportation held a hearing on the Coast Guard Missions' Review
Acquisitions, Research and Development, and Domestic and International
Icebreaking. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the U.S.
Coast Guard, Department of Transportation: Capt. Fred Squires, USCG, Deputy
Chief, Office of Acquisition; RAdm. Edward J. Barrett, USCG, Chief, Systems
Directorate; and RAdm. Rudy K. Perschel, USCG, Chief, Office of Navigation
Safety; and public witnesses. 

REPEAL FUEL TAX INCREASE

Committee on Ways and Means: Ordered reported H.R. 3415, to amend the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 D455to repeal the 4.3 cent increase in the transportation
motor fuels excise tax rates enacted by the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act
of 1993 and dedicated to the general fund of the Treasury. 

                                          [Page: D455]

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Trade approved for full Committee
action the following: H.R. 3161, to authorize the extension of
nondiscriminatory treatment (most-favored-nation treatment) to the products of
Romania; and a measure to make technical amendments in trade laws. 

INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY ACT

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Ordered reported amended H.R.
3237, Intelligence Community Act. 



1996/05/10
Daily Digest - Friday, May 10, 1996;  pages D458 - D462

Committee Meetings

VETERANS AFFAIRS-HUD-INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs, Housing and
Urban Development and Independent Agencies concluded appropriation hearings.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

CONCURRENT BUDGET RESOLUTION

Committee on the Budget: Ordered reported the Concurrent Resolution on the
Budget for Fiscal Year 1997. 

OVERSIGHT--GSA

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information and Technology held an oversight hearing on the GSA.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the GSA: David J. Barram,
Acting Administrator; David L. Bibb, Deputy Commissioner, Public Buildings
Service; Frank Pugliese, Commissioner, Federal Supply Service; and Marty
Wagner, Associate Administrator, Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation;
and public witnesses. 

FOOD SAFETY

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Human Resources
and Intergovernmental Relations held a hearing on Food Safety: Oversight of
the FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Health and Human Services: Michael
Friedman, M.D., Deputy Commissioner, FDA; Stephen Sundlof, D.V.M., Director,
Center for Veterinary Medicine; and Fred Shank, Director, Center for Food
Safety and Applied Nutrition; and public witnesses. 



1996/05/13
Daily Digest - Monday, May 13, 1996;  pages D463 - D466

Committee Meetings

No Committee meetings were held. 



1996/05/14
Daily Digest - Tuesday, May 14, 1996;  pages D467 - D474

Committee Meetings

USDA ADMINISTERED-INTRAMURAL AND EXTRAMURAL RESEARCH PROGRAMS

Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Resource Conservation, Research, and
Forestry held a hearing D472to review intramural and extramural research
programs coordinated by the USDA. Testimony was heard from Catherine Woteki,
Deputy Under Secretary, Research, Education, and Economics, USDA; and public
witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D472]

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations; Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education held a hearing on Nobel Laureates. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Nobel Laureates Biomedical Research panel: Daniel
Nathans, Johns Hopkins University; E. Donnall Thomas, Fred Hutchinson Cancer
Research Center, Seattle, Washington; and Eric Wieschaus, Princeton
University. 

EFFECTS OF MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on National
Economic Growth, Natural Resources, and Regulatory Affairs held a hearing on
the Effects of a Minimum Wage Increase. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses. 

INTELECTUAL PROPERTY ANTITRUST PROTECTION ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Held a hearing on H.R. 2674, Intellectual Property
Antitrust Protection Act of 1995. Testimony was heard from Bruce A. Lehman,
Assistant Secretary and Commissioner of Patents and Trademarks, Patent and
Trademark Office, Department of Commerce; Joel I. Klein, Principal Deputy
Assistant Attorney General, Antitrust Division, Department of Justice; and
public witnesses 

YEAR 2000 SOFTWARE PROBLEM

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Technology held a hearing on Solving the
Year 2000 Software Problem: Creating Blueprints for Success. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the SSA: Dean Mesterharm, Deputy
Commissioner, Systems; and Kathleen M. Adams, Assistant Commissioner, Office
Systems, Design and Development; Robert Hebner, Acting Deputy Director,
National Institute of Standards and Technology, Department of Commerce; and
public witnesses. 

SMALL BUSINESS JOB PROTECTION ACT

Committee on Ways and Means: Ordered reported amended H.R. 3448, Small
Business Job Protection Act of 1996. 



1996/05/15
Daily Digest - Wednesday, May 15, 1996;  pages D475 - D482

Committee Meetings

NATIONAL CHEESE EXCHANGE--PRACTICES AND PROCEDURES

Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry and
the Subcommittee on Risk Management and Specialty Crops held a joint hearing
to consider issues raised by a recently released study of trading practices
and procedures on the National Cheese Exchange. Testimony was heard from Alan
Tracy, Secretary, Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection,
State of Wisconsin; and public witnesses. 

Hearings continue tomorrow. 

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE, AND THE JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, and the
Judiciary held a hearing on the Secretary of State. Testimony was heard from
Warren M. Christopher, Secretary of State. 

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on the District of Columbia held a
hearing on the D.C. Fiscal Year 1997 Budget Request. Testimony was heard from
Andrew F. Brimmer, Chairman, D.C. Financial Responsibility and Management
Assistance Authority. 

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education continued appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from
Members of Congress. 

SECURITIES AMENDMENTS OF 1996

Committee on Commerce: Ordered reported amended H.R. 3005, Securities
Amendments of 1996. 

ELECTRICITY REGULATION

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Power held an oversight
hearing on Electricity Regulation: A Vision for the Future. Testimony was
heard from public witnesses. 

FEDERAL AGENCY ANTI-LOBBYING ACT

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Held a hearing on H.R. 3078,
Federal Agency Anti-Lobbying Act. Testimony was heard from Senator Stevens;
Representative Tauzin; J. Davitt McAteer, Acting Solicitor General, Department
of Labor; Robert Nordhaus, General Counsel, Department of Energy; May Lou
Keener, General Counsel, Department of Veterans Affairs; Joseph B. Dial,
Commissioner, Commodity Futures Trading Commission; Jonathan Cannon, General
Counsel, EPA; Robert P. Murphy, General Counsel, GAO; Lou Fisher, Senior
Specialist, American National Government, Congressional Research Service,
Library of Congress; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURE; HISTORY OF ARMENIAN GENOCIDE

Committee on International Relations: Favorably considered and amended the
following resolution and adopted a motion urging the Chairman to request that
it be considered on the Suspension Calendar: H. Con. Res. 154, to congratulate
the Republic of China on Taiwan on the occasion of its first Presidential
democratic election.  

The Committee also held a hearing on the History of Armenian Genocide.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

DEFENSE OF MARRIAGE ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution held a hearing on
H.R. 3396, Defense of Marriage Act. Testimony was heard from the following
members of various State Legislatures: Terrance W.H. Tom, Representative,
Hawaii; Edward Fallon, Representative, Iowa; Marilyn Musgrave, Representative,
Colorado; Ernest Chambers, Senator, Nebraska; and Deborah Whyman,
Representative, Michigan; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLENEOUS MEASURES

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Courts and Intellectual Property
approved for full Committee action a measure relating to PTO Government
Corporation, Reexamination of Patents, Publication of Patent Applications,
Prior Domestic User Rights, Patent Reexamining Reform, and Investor Protection
Rights. 

The Subcommittee failed to approve H.R. 359, to restore the term of patents. 

FISH AND WILDLIFE ACTIVITIES AND MIGRATORY BIRD TREATY ACT

Committee on Resources: Held an oversight hearing on U.S. Fish and Wildlife
activities and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Testimony was heard from
Representative Brewster; from the following officials of the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior: Robert Streeter, Assistant
Director, Refuges and Wildlife; and Monty Halcomb, Director, Law Enforcement;
Charles Williams, Senator, State of Florida; Brent Manning, Director,
Department of D480Natural Resources. State of Illinois; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D480]

BUDGET RESOLUTION

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a modified closed rule, providing
no further general debate, and that H. Con. Res. 178, establishing the
congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 1997 and
setting forth appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 1998, 1999, 2000,
2001, and 2002, shall be considered as read. The rule provides for
consideration of only those amendments designated in section 2 of the
resolution which may be offered only in the order designated, may be offered
only by the Member designated or a designee (except that if no Member offers
the amendment designated in paragraph 3 of section 2, then that amendment
shall nevertheless be considered as pending at that point), shall be
considered as read, shall be debatable for 1 hour equally divided and
controlled by the proponent and an opponent, and shall not be subject to
amendment. 

The rule makes in order three amendments in the nature of a substitute that
are: (1) an amendment to be offered by Representative Payne of New Jersey, or
a designee (2) an amendment to be offered by Representative Orton of Utah, or
a designee and (3) an amendment to be offered by Representative Sabo of
Minnesota, or which may be offered by any Member, or which shall be considered
as pending. The rule waives all points of order against the amendments
designated in section 2. 

The rule provides that the adoption of an amendment in the nature of a
substitute shall constitute the conclusion of consideration of the concurrent
resolution for amendment. The rule provides that after the conclusion of
consideration of the concurrent resolution for amendment, there will be 40
minutes of general debate equally divided and controlled by the chairman and
ranking minority member of the Committee on the Budget. 

The previous question shall be considered as ordered on the concurrent
resolution and amendments thereto to final passage without intervening motion
except amendments offered by the chairman of the Committee on the Budget to
achieve mathematical consistency. The concurrent resolution will not be
subject to a demand for a division of the question. The rule provides that if
H. Con. Res. 178 is agreed to allocations of spending and credit
responsibilities in House Report 104-575 shall be considered as the
allocations otherwise required by section 602(a) of the Congressional Budget
Act of 1974. However, upon adoption by the Congress of a concurrent resolution
on the budget, this shall cease to apply. Finally, the rule provides that rule
XLIX (establishment of statutory limit on the public debt) shall not apply
with respect to the adoption by the Congress of a concurrent resolution on the
budget for fiscal year 1997. Testimony was heard from Chairman Kasich; and
Representatives Sabo, Stenholm, Orton, Meek of Florida, Owens, and Sanders. 

MINIMUM WAGE AND ENTRY-LEVEL EMPLOYMENT

Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing on small businesses and
entry-level employment opportunities, with emphasis on the minimum wage and
other proposals for increasing entry-level employment opportunities. Testimony
was heard from public witnesses. 

SMALL SATELLITES

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Small Satellites. Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses. 



1996/05/16
Daily Digest - Thursday, May 16, 1996;  pages D483 - D490

Committee Meetings

NATIONAL CHEESE EXCHANGE--PRACTICES AND PROCEDURES

Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry and
the Subcommittee on Risk Management and Specialty Crops concluded joint
hearings to consider issues raised by a recently released study of trading
practices and procedures on the National Cheese Exchange. Testimony was heard
from Keith Collins, Chief Economist, USDA; and public witnesses. 

LABOR--HHS--EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
and Education concluded appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from
Members of Congress. 

The Subcommittee also held a hearing on Consolidated Departmental Management
and Consolidated Inspectors General. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Labor: Cynthia A. Metzler, Acting Deputy
Secretary; and Charles C. Masten, Inspector General. 

INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS AUTHORIZATION

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Domestic and
International Monetary Policy approved for full Committee action amended H.R.
3399, to authorize appropriations for the United States contribution to the
104th replenishment of the resources of the International Development
Association, to authorize consent to and authorize appropriations for the
United States contribution to the fifth replenishment of the resources of the
African Development Bank, to authorize consent to and authorize appropriations
for a United States contribution to the interest subsidy account of the
successor (ESAF II) to the Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility of the
International Monetary Fund, and to provide for the establishment of the
Middle East Development Bank. 

FAN FREEDOM AND COMMUNITY PROTECTION ACT

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade and Hazardous Materials
held a hearing on H.R. 2740, Fan Freedom and Community Protection Act.
Testimony was heard from Representatives Hoke, DeLay, Bryant of Tennessee,
Jackson-Lee of Texas and Flanagan; Bob Lanier, Mayor, Houston, D488Texas;
Philip N. Bredeson, Mayor, Nashville, Tennessee; Jane Hague, Chairwoman, King
County Council, Seattle, Washington; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D488]

COMPLIANCE WITH FEDERAL TRAVEL GUIDELINES

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight, Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information and Technology held a hearing on Senior Executive
Branch Officials Compliance with Federal Travel Guidelines. Testimony was
heard from Bonnie Cohen, Assistant Secretary, Policy Management and Budget,
Chief Financial Officer, Department of the Interior; Harold Gracey, Chief of
Staff, Department of Veterans Affairs; Patricia Lattimore, Deputy Assistant
Secretary, Administration and Management, Department of Labor; and a public
witness. 

IMPACT OF REGULATIONS ON EMPLOYMENT

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on National
Economic Growth, Natural Resources, and Regulatory Affairs held a hearing on
the Impact of Regulations on Employment. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses. 

WHITE HOUSE COMMUNICATIONS AGENCY--MISMANAGEMENT AND WASTE

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on National
Security, International Affairs and Criminal Justice, hearing on Mismanagement
and Waste at the White House Communications Agency. Testimony was heard from
Robert Lieberman, Assistant Inspector General, Auditing, Department of
Defense; and Henry L. Hinton, Assistant Comptroller General, National Security
and International Affairs Division, GAO. 

Subcommittee recessed subject to call. 

FEC AUTHORIZATION

Committee on House Oversight: Approved H.R. 3461, to authorize appropriations
for the Federal Election Commission for fiscal year 1997. 

Prior to this action, the Committee held a hearing on this measure. Testimony
was heard from the following officials of the FEC: Lee Ann Elliott, Chairman;
Scott E. Thomas, Commissioner and Chairman, Finance Committee; and Joan D.
Aikens, Commissioner. 

MFN IMPACT FOR CHINA

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Economic
Policy and Trade and the Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, joint hearing
on the Impact of MFN for China on U.S.-China Economic Relations. Testimony was
heard from Representative Pelosi; Peter Tarnoff, Under Secretary, Political
Affairs, Department of State; Stuart E. Eizenstat, Under Secretary,
International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce; and public
witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT--PROJECTED INCREASES IN LEGAL IMMIGRATION

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration and Claims held an
oversight hearing regarding projected increases in legal immigration.
Testimony was heard from Susan Martin, Executive Director, Commission on
Immigration Reform; Robert Bach, Executive Assistant Commissioner, Policy and
Planning, Immigration and Naturalization Service, Department of Justice; the
following officials of the Visa Office, Department of State: Cornelius D.
Scully and Seton P. Stapleton; and Nancy Gordon, Associate Director,
Demographic Programs, Bureau of the Census, Department of Commerce.

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Ordered reported the following measures: H.J. Res. 70,
authorizing the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity to establish a memorial to Martin
Luther King, Jr. in the District of Columbia or its environs; H.R. 3068, to
accept the request of the Prairie Island Indian Community to revoke their
charter of incorporation issued under the Indian Reorganization Act; and H.R.
848, amended, to increase the amount authorized to be appropriated for
assistance for highway relocation regarding Chickamauga and Chattanooga
National Military Park in Georgia. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans held an
oversight hearing on the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. Testimony was
heard from Representative Chenoweth; Daniel M. Ashe, Assistant Director,
External Affairs, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior;
Amos Eno, Executive Director, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation; and
public witnesses. 

DEFEND AMERICA ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a modified closed rule, providing
for consideration in the House of H.R. 3144, Defend America Act of 1996, with
2 hours of debate. The rule waives all points of order against the bill and
against its consideration. The rule provides for one minority amendment in the
nature of a substitute which shall be considered as read and shall be
debatable separately for 1 hour. The rule waives all points of order against
the substitute. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit, with or
without instructions. D489Testimony was heard from Chairman Spence and
Representatives Dellums and Spratt. 

                                          [Page: D489]

REPEAL FUEL TAX INCREASE

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a closed rule waiving all points
of order against H.R. 3415, to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to
repeal the 4.3-cent increase in the transportation motor fuels excise tax
rates enacted by the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993 and dedicated
to the general fund of the Treasury, and against its consideration. The rule
provides for the adoption of the amendment printed in the report of the
Committee on Rules. The rule provides 1 hour of debate. Finally, the rule
provides one motion to recommit, with or without instructions. Testimony was
heard from Chairman Archer and Representatives Seastrand, Gibbons, Dingell,
Markey and Bentsen. 

INTELLIGENCE AUTHORIZATION ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a modified open rule providing 1
hour of debate on H.R. 3259, Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year
1997. The rule waives section 302(f) (prohibiting consideration of legislation
which exceeds a committee's allocation of new entitlement authority), section
308(a) (requiring a cost estimate in the committee report on new entitlement
authority), and section 401(a) (prohibiting consideration of legislation
containing contract authority not previously subject to appropriation) of the
Budget Act against consideration of the bill. 

The rule makes in order for consideration for amendment under the five minute
rule the amendment in the nature of a substitute now printed in the bill,
which shall be considered by title and as read. The rule waives clause 7 of
rule XVI (germaneness), clause 5(b) of rule XXI (prohibition of consideration
of legislation containing revenue provisions if not considered by the
Committee on Ways and Means), and section 302(f) (providing consideration of
legislation which exceeds a committee's allocation of new entitlement
authority) and section 401(a) (prohibiting consideration of legislation
containing contract authority not previously subject to appropriation) of the
Budget Act against the committee amendment in the nature of a substitute. 

The rule makes in order only those amendments to the substitute which are
pre-printed in the Congressional Record . The rule allows the Chairman of the
Committee of the Whole to postpone votes during consideration of the bill, and
to reduce votes to five minutes on a postponed question if the vote follows a
fifteen minute vote. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit, with
or without instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman Combest and
Representative Dicks. 

METRIC SYSTEM CONVERSION ACT AMENDMENTS

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Technology held a hearing on proposed
amendments to the Metric System Conversion Act. Testimony was heard from
Representative Cox of California; Mark Bohannon, Chief Counsel for Technology,
Department of Commerce; and public witnesses. 

ISTEA REAUTHORIZATION

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Surface
Transportation continued hearings on ISTEA Reauthorization: Transportation
Finance in an Era of Scarce Resources: the Highway Trust Fund. Testimony was
heard from Phyllis F. Scheinberg, Associate Director, Transportation and
Telecommunications Issues, GAO; Robert Sunshine, Deputy Assistant Director,
Budget Analysis Division, CBO; the following officials of the Department of
the Treasury: Marty Washburn, National Director, Specialty Taxes; and Edward
L. Federico, Director, National Operations for Criminal Investigations; the
following officials of the Department of Transportation: Anthony Kane,
Executive Director, Federal Highway Administration; and Jack Basso, Deputy
Assistant Secretary, Budget and Program; and public witnesses. 

Hearings continue May 30. 



1996/05/17
Daily Digest - Friday, May 17, 1996;  pages D492 - D498

Committee Meetings 

No Committee meetings were held. 



1996/05/20
Daily Digest - Monday, May 20, 1996;  pages D500 - D504

Committee Meetings

No Committee meetings were held. 



1996/05/21
Daily Digest - Tuesday, May 21, 1996;  pages D505 - D512

Committee Meetings

MILITARY CONSTRUCTION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction approved
for full Committee action the Military Construction appropriations for fiscal
year 1997. 

DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security met in
executive session to begin markup of the defense appropriations for fiscal
year 1997. 

Will continue tomorrow. 

AID WHISTLEBLOWER

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on AID Whistleblower.
Testimony was heard from Paul Neifert, Foreign Service Officer, AID, U.S.
International Development Cooperation Agency. 

SOUTH--CHURCH FIRES

Committee on the Judiciary: Held an oversight hearing on Church fires in the
South. Testimony was heard from Representative Payne of New Jersey; the
following officials of the Department of Justice: Deval L. Patrick, Assistant
Attorney General, Civil Rights Division; and Tron W. Brekke, Chief, Civil
Rights Program, FBI; the following officials of the Department of the
Treasury: John W. Magaw, Director, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms;
and James E. Johnson, Assistant Secretary, Enforcement; and public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT--ECOREGION-BASED ASSESSMENTS

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands held
an oversight hearing on several ecoregion-based assessments currently being
conducted by the U.S. Forest Service. Testimony was heard from Representative
Herger; David Unger, Associate Chief, Forest Service, USDA; and public
witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Water and Power Resources held an
oversight hearing on Bonneville Power Administration operations and status of
the Comprehensive Review of the Northwest Energy System. Testimony was heard
from Jack Robertson, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Bonneville Power
Administration, Department of Energy; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D510]

SMALL BUSINESS JOB PROTECTION ACT; PORTAL-TO-PORTAL ACT AMENDMENTS

Committee on Rules: granted, by voice vote, a modified closed rule providing
for consideration in the House of H.R. 3448, Small Business Job Protection Act
of 1996, without the intervention of a point of order except those arising
under sec. 425(a) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 (prohibiting
unfunded mandates). The rule provides that the amendment in the nature of a
substitute recommended by the Committee on Ways and Means shall be considered
as read and all points of order are waived against said substitute except
those arising under sec. 425(a) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974. 

The rule provides that the bill and committee amendment shall be debatable for
one hour, divided between the chairman and ranking minority member of the
Committee on Ways and Means. The previous question is considered as ordered on
the bill and the committee amendment to final passage without intervening
motion except one motion to recommit, with or without instructions. The rule
further provides that the provisions of clause 5(c) of rule XXI (requiring a
three-fifths vote on bills, amendments, and conference reports containing
income tax rate increases) shall not apply to the bill, amendments thereto, or
conference reports thereon. 

After the disposition of H.R. 3448, it shall be in order to consider in the
House, H.R. 1227, to amend the Portal-to-Portal Act of 1947 relating to the
payment of wages to employees who use employer-owned vehicles, without
intervening point of order except those arising under sec. 425(a) of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974 (prohibiting unfunded mandates). The rule
provides that the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the
Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities, as modified by the
amendment printed in section 3 of the rule adding a short title, is considered
as adopted. 

The previous question is ordered without intervening motion except: (1) ninety
minutes of debate divided between the chairman and ranking minority member of
the Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities; (2) an amendment
printed in part 1 of the report of the Committee on Rules if offered by
Representative Riggs of California or his designee, debatable for ninety
minutes; (3) an amendment printed in part 2 of the report of the Committee on
Rules if offered by Representative Goodling of Pennsylvania or his designee,
debatable for one hour and subject to a division of the question between
subsection 3(d) (small business exemption) and the remainder of the amendment;
and (4) one motion to recommit, with or without instructions. 

The rule provides that each amendment made in order is considered as read, is
not subject to amendment or point of order, except those arising under sec.
425(a) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974. The rule provides that in the
engrossment of H.R. 3448, the Clerk shall await the disposition of H.R. 1227
and shall add the text of H.R. 1227 as passed by the House. Finally, the rule
provides that upon the addition of the text of H.R. 1227 to the engrossment of
H.R. 3448, H.R. 1227 shall be laid on the table. Testimony was heard from
Chairman Goodling and the following Representatives: Fawell, Hutchinson,
Lightfoot, Dickey, Campbell, Quinn, Shays, English of Pennsylvania, Shaw,
Clay, Rangel and Neal of Massachusetts. 



1996/05/22
Daily Digest - Wednesday, May 22, 1996;  pages D514 - D522

Committee Meetings

SEAFOOD INSPECTION PROGRAMS

Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy and Produce held a
hearing on seafood inspection programs. Testimony was heard from James W.
Brennan, Deputy General Counsel, NOAA, Department of Commerce; Michael
Friedman, M.D., Deputy Commissioner, Operations, FDA, Department of Health and
Human Services. 

FOREIGN OPERATIONS, EXPORT FINANCING AND RELATED PROGRAMS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Foreign Operations, Export
Financing and Related Programs began markup of the Foreign Operations, Export
Financing and Related Programs appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security met in
executive session to continue markup of the Defense appropriations for fiscal
year 1997. 

Will continue tomorrow. 

ARMORED CAR RECIPROCITY IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1996

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Hazardous
Materials approved for full Committee action H.R. 3431, Armored Car Industry
Reciprocity Improvement Act of 1996. 

Prior to this action, the Subcommittee held a hearing on this legislation.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT--CONDITIONS--D.C. DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on the District of
Columbia held an oversight hearing on Conditions within the District of
Columbia Department of Corrections. Testimony was heard from Margaret Moore,
Director, Department of Corrections, District of Columbia; and public
witnesses. 

ELECTRONIC REPORTING STREAMLINING ACT; DELAY PRIVATIZATION OF OFFICE OF
INVESTIGATIONS OPM

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information and Technology held a hearing on the following:
Electronic Reporting Streamlining Act of 1996; and H.R. 3189, to delay the
privatization of the Office of Federal Investigations of the Office of
Personnel Management in order to allow sufficient time for a thorough review
to be conducted as to the feasibility and desirability of any such
privitization. Testimony was heard from Sally Katzen, Administrator, Office of
Information and Regulatory Affairs, OMB; the following officials of OMP: James
B. King, Director; and Deborah Abraham Apperson, Senior investigator, Office
of Federal Investigations; and public witnesses. 

AFRICAN--HUMAN RIGHTS

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Africa held a hearing on
Current Human Rights Situation in Africa. Testimony was heard from John
Shattuck, Assistant Secretary, Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, Department
of State; and public witnesses. 

FORCED MIGRATION--NEWLY INDEPENDENT STATES

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Operations
and Human Rights held a D520hearing on Forced Migration in the Newly
Independent States of the former Soviet Union. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D520]

SHIPBUILDING TRADE AGREEMENT ACT

Committee on National Security: Special Oversight Panel on the Merchant Marine
held a hearing on H.R. 2754, Shipbuilding Trade Agreement Act. Testimony was
heard from Representatives Gibbons and Crane; the following officials of the
Office of the U.S. Trade Representative: Ambassador Jennifer Hillman, General
Counsel; and Donald Phillips, Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for
Industry; and public witnesses. 

VETERANS' LEGISLATION

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Compensation, Pension,
Insurance and Memorial Affairs approved for full Committee action the
following: H.R. 3458, Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of
1996; H.R. 2513, to amend title 38, United States Code, to expand eligibility
for burial benefits to include certain veterans who die in State nursing
homes; a measure to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the
provision of funds in order to provide financial assistance by grant or
contract to legal assistance entities for representation of financially needy
veterans in connection with proceedings before the United States Court of
Veterans Appeals; and H.R. 3495, to extend the time for the submission of the
final report of the Veterans' Claims Adjudication Commission. 

WELFARE REFORM

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Human Resources held a hearing on
welfare reform. Testimony was heard from Mary Jo Bane, Assistant Secretary,
Children and Families, Department of Health and Human Services. 
 
Hearings continue tomorrow. 

IRAN OIL SANCTIONS

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Trade held a hearing on H.R.
3107, Iran Oil Sanctions Act of 1996. Testimony was heard from C. David Welch,
Principle Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs,
Department of State; Jennifer Hillman, General Counsel, Office of the U.S.
Trade Representative; and William E. Barreda, Deputy Assistant Secretary,
Trade and Investment Policy, Department of the Treasury. 



1996/05/23
Daily Digest - Thursday, May 23, 1996;  pages D523 - D530

Committee Meetings

MILITARY CONSTRUCTION APPROPRIATIONS AND BUDGET ALLOCATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Ordered reported the Military Construction
appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

The committee also approved a section 602(b) budget allocation report for
fiscal year 1997. 

FOREIGN OPERATIONS, EXPORT FINANCING AND RELATED PROGRAMS

Committee on Appropriations: On May 22nd, the Subcommittee on Foreign
Operations, Export Financing and Related Programs approved for full Committee
action the Foreign Operations, Export Financing and Related Programs
appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on National Security met in
executive session and approved for full Committee action the Defense
appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

REINVENTING DOWNSIZING

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Civil Service
held a hearing on Reinventing Downsizing or Downsizing the Reinvention.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the GAO: Timothy P.
Bowling, Associate Director, Workforce Management Issues; and John H. Luke,
Deputy Assistant Comptroller General, Human Resources; John A Koskinen, Deputy
Director, Management, OMB; James B. King, Director, OPM; and P. Patrick Leahy,
Chief Geologist, U.S. Geological Survey, Department of the Interior. 

MONITORING FOOD-BORNE PATHOGENS

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Human Resources
and Intergovernmental Relations held an oversight hearing on the monitoring of
food-borne pathogens by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the
FDA. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
Health and Human Services; David Satcher, M.D., Director, Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention; and Fred Shank, Director, Center for Food Safety and
Applied Nutrition, FDA; Glenn Morris, M.D., Director, Epidemiology and
Emergency Response Programs, Food Safety and Inspection Service, USDA; Robert
A. Robinson, Director, Food and Agriculture Issues Area, GAO; and public
witnesses. 

NATIONAL DRUG CONTROL POLICY

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on National
Security, International Affairs, and Criminal Justice held a hearing on
National Drug Control Policy: The Decline of Interdiction Efforts in the
Caribbean. Testimony was heard from Jess Ford, Associate Director,
International Affairs and Trade Issues, GAO; and the following officials of
the U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation: Adm. Robert Krarnek,
Commandant; Comdr. Arthur Brooks, Commanding Officer, Cutter Seneca ; Lt.
Kristine Horvath, Air Craft Comdr., Air Station, Miami, Florida; Lt. Gen.
Glenn Gebele, Air Craft Comdr., Air Station, Clearwater, Florida; and Lt. Greg
Sanial, Commanding Officer, Cutter Attu . 

AMERICAN FOLKLIFE PRESERVATION ACT; COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on House Oversight: Ordered reported H.R. 3491, to repeal the
American Folklife Preservation Act. 

The Committee also approved pending Committee business. 

BILINGUAL VOTING REQUIREMENTS REPEAL ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution approved for full
Committee action amended H.R. 351, Bilingual Voting Requirements Repeal Act. 

FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime held a hearing on the
Nature, Extent, and Proliferation of Federal Law Enforcement--Part II: State
and Local Law Enforcement Perspectives. Testimony was heard from Jane Brady,
Attorney General, State of Delaware; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration and Claims approved
for full Committee action H.R. 740, to confer jurisdiction on the U.S.
D529Court of Federal Claims with respect to land claims of Pueblo of Isleta
Indian Tribe. 

                                          [Page: D529]

The Subcommittee also met and considered private immigration and claims bills. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; FDA CONSOLIDATION

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Public
Buildings and Economic Development approved for full Committee action the
following: H. Con. Res. 172, authorizing the 1996 Summer Olympic Torch Relay
to be run through the Capitol Grounds; H.R. 3186, to designate the Federal
building located at 1655 Woodson Road in Overland, MO, as the "Sammy L. Davis
Federal Building;" H.R. 3364, amended, to designate a U.S. Courthouse in
Scranton, PA, as the "William J. Nealon United States Courthouse;" and H.R.
3400, amended, to designate the United States courthouse to be constructed at
a site on 18th Street between Dodge and Douglas Streets in Omaha, NE, as the
"Roman L. Hruska United States Courthouse." 

Prior to this action, the Subcommittee held a hearing on these measures.
Testimony was heard from Representatives McDade and Barrett of Nebraska; and a
public witness. 

The Subcommittee also held a hearing on FDA Consolidation. Testimony was heard
from Representative Morella; William Lawson, Assistant Regional Administrator,
National Capitol Region, GSA; Sharon Smith Holston, Assistant Commissioner,
External Affairs, FDA, Department of Health and Human Services; and public
witnesses. 

WELFARE REFORM

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Human Resources concluded
hearings on welfare reform. Testimony was heard from Representative Becerra;
Jane Ross, Director, Income Security Issues, GAO; Bruce Wagstaff, Deputy
Director, Department of Social Services, State of California; Marilyn Ray
Smith, Associate Deputy Commissioner and Chief Legal Counsel, Department of
Revenue Child Support Enforcement, State of Massachusetts; Jeffrey Cohen,
Director, Office of Child Support, State of Vermont; and public witnesses. 



1996/05/24
Daily Digest - Friday, May 24, 1996;  pages D532 - D534

Committee Meetings

LEGISLATING IN THE 21ST CENTURY

Committee on Rules: Subcommittee on Rules and Organization of the House held a
hearing on Legislating in the 21st Century Congress: Assessing the Impact of
Information Technology on the Legislative Process. Testimony was heard from
Representative Ehlers; Patrick Flahaven, Secretary of the Senate, State of
Minnesota; Stephen Frantzich, Chair, Department of Political Science, U.S.
Naval Academy; and Jeffrey Eisenach, President, Progress and Freedom
Foundation. 



1996/05/29
Daily Digest - Wednesday, May 29, 1996;  pages D536 - D540

Committee Meetings

FOREIGN OPERATIONS, EXPORT FINANCING, AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Ordered reported a measure making appropriations
for the foreign operations, export financing, and related programs for the
fiscal year ending September 30, 1997. 

SHIPBUILDING TRADE AGREEMENT ACT

Committee on National Security: Ordered reported amended H.R. 2754,
Shipbuilding Trade Agreement Act. 

MILITARY CONSTRUCTION APPROPRIATION

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
debate on H.R. 3517, making appropriations for military construction, family
housing, and base realignment and closure for the Department of Defense for
the fiscal year ending September 30, 1997. 

The rule waives points of order against the consideration of the bill for
failure to comply with clause 7 of rule XXI (3-day requirement for
availability of D538printed hearings and the report). The rule also waives
points of order against provisions in the bill which do not comply with clause
2 of rule XXI (prohibiting unauthorized appropriations and legislation on
general appropriations bills), and clause 6 of rule XXI (prohibiting transfers
of unobligated balances). 

                                          [Page: D538]

The rule accords priority in recognition to Members who have pre-printed their
amendments in the Congressional Record. The chairman of the Committee of the
Whole may postpone recorded votes on any amendment and the chairman may reduce
the voting time on postponed questions to 5 minutes, provided that the vote
takes place immediately following another recorded vote and that the voting
time on the first in a series of questions be not less than 15 minutes. 

The rule further provides that if a motion to rise and report the bill to the
House with such amendments as may have been adopted is offered by the Majority
Leader or a designee, after the reading of the final lines of the bill, it
shall be precedence over a motion to amend. Finally, the rule provides one
motion to recommit, with or without instructions. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Vucanovich and Hefner. 

MILITARY AIRCRAFT AT CIVILIAN AIRPORTS--HIGH PERFORMANCE TAKE-OFFS

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing on High-Performance take-offs by Military Aircraft at Civilian
Airports. Testimony was heard from Representative Clement; Bill F. Jeffers,
Director of Air Traffic, FAA, Department of Transportation; RAdm. Dennis V.
McGinn, USN, Director, Air Warfare Division, Naval Operations, Department of
Defense; and public witnesses. 

IC21

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met to receive a briefing on
IC21--Intelligence Community in the 21st Century. The Committee was briefed by
John White, Deputy Secretary, Department of Defense; and John M. Deutch,
Director, CIA. 



1996/05/30
Daily Digest - Thursday, May 30, 1996;  pages D541 - D548

Committee Meetings 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES 

Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Resource Conservation, Research, and
Forestry approved for full Committee action the following bills: H.R. 2023,
amended, to provide for a land exchange between the Ironton Country Club of
Ironton, OH, and the Secretary of Agriculture involving Wayne National Forest;
H.R. 3387, to designate the Southern Piedmont Conservation Research Center
located at 1420 Experimental Station Road in Watkinsville, GA, as the "J. Phil
Campbell, Senior Natural Resources Conservation Center"; H.R. 2670, amended,
to provide for the release of the reversionary interest held by the United
States in certain property located in the County of Iosco, MI; and H.R. 3464,
amended, to make a minor adjustment in the exterior boundary of the Devils
Backbone Wilderness in the Mark Twain National Forest, MO, to exclude a small
parcel of land containing improvements. 

Prior to this action, the Subcommittee held a hearing on those measures and on
the following bills: H.R. 1223, to amend the act of June 15, 1938, to extend
the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture to purchase lands within the
boundaries of certain National Forests in the State of California to include
the Angeles National Forest and to expand the purpose for which such purchases
may be made; and H.R. 3541, to provide for an exchange of lands with the city
of Greeley, CO, and the Water Supply and Storage Co. to eliminate private
inholdings in wilderness areas, to cause instream flows to be created above a
wild and scenic river, to eliminate potential development on private
inholdings within the forest boundary, to reduce the need for future water
reservoirs, to reduce the number of Federal land uses authorizations, and to
improve the security of the water supply of the city and the company.
Testimony was heard from Representatives Cremeans and Barcia; Janice McDougle,
Associate Deputy Chief, National Forest System, USDA. 

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies approved for full Committee
action the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and
Related Agencies appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

VA, HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Veterans Affairs, Housing and
Urban Development and Independent Agencies approved for full Committee action
the Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development and Independent Agencies
appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

MANAGED CARE 

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Health and Environment held a hearing
on Contract Issues and Quality Standards for Managed Care. Testimony was heard
from public witnesses. 

PROMOTING NATURAL GAS VEHICLES--FEDERAL GOVERNMENT'S ROLE 

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held a
hearing on the Federal Government's Role in Promoting Natural Gas Vehicles.
Testimony was heard from Kyle Simpson, Associate Deputy for Programs,
Department of Energy; and public witnesses. 

IDEA IMPROVEMENT ACT 

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Ordered reported amended
H.R. 3268, IDEA Improvement Act of 1996. 

BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENSE 

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on National
Security, International Affairs, and Criminal Justice held a hearing on
Ballistic Missile Defense: Responding to the Current Ballistic Missile Threat.
Testimony was heard from Representative Weldon of Pennsylvania; R. James
Woolsey, former Director, CIA; and public witnesses. 

U.S. ROLE--IRANIAN ARMS TRANSFERS--BOSNIA AND CROATIA 

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on the U.S. Role in
Iranian Arms Transfers to Bosnia and Croatia. Testimony was heard from Charles
E. Redman, U.S. Ambassador to Germany; and Peter W. Galbraith, U.S. Ambassador
to Croatia. 

SOUTHEAST ASIA REGIONAL SECURITY 

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific
held a hearing on Southeast Asia Regional Security: Dragons, Dominoes, and
Dynamos. Testimony was heard from Winston Lord, Assistant Secretary, East
Asian and Pacific Affairs, Department of State; Kurt Campbell, Deputy
Assistant Secretary, East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Department of Defense;
Gen. Michael Carns, USAF (Ret.), D544former Vice Chief of Staff, U.S. Air
Force; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D544]

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution approved for full
Committee action the following bills: H.R. 3434, amended, Revolving Door Act
of 1996; H.R. 3435, amended, Lobbying Disclosure Technical Amendments Act of
1996; and H.R. 3396, Defense of Marriage Act. 

OVERSIGHT--MINERAL RESOURCES SURVEY PROGRAMS

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources held an
oversight hearing on the mineral resources survey programs of the United
States Geological Survey. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the Department of the Interior: P. Patrick Lahey, Chief Geologist, U.S.
Geological Survey; and W. Hord Tipton, Assistant Director, Resource Use and
Protection, Bureau of Land Management; Jonathan G. Price, Director/State
Geologist, Bureau of Mines and Geology, State of Nevada; and public witnesses. 

NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARIES PRESERVATION ACT; FEDERAL OCEANOGRAPHIC
COORDINATION IMPROVEMENT ACT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans
approved for full Committee action the following bills: H.R. 3487, amended,
National Marine Sanctuaries Preservation Act; and H.R. 3537, Federal
Oceanographic Coordination Improvement Act of 1996. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES 

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands held
a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 3147, to provide for the exchange of
certain Federal lands in the State of California managed by the Bureau of Land
Management of certain non-Federal lands; H.R. 2135, to provide for the
correction of boundaries of certain lands in Clark County, NV, acquired by
persons who purchased such lands in good faith reliance on existing private
land surveys; and H.R. 2711, to provide for the substitution of timber for the
canceled Elkhorn Ridge timber sale. Testimony was heard from Representatives
Radanovich and Riggs; Mat Millenbach, Deputy Director, Bureau of Land
Management, Department of the Interior; and public witnesses. 

FOREIGN OPERATIONS, EXPORT FINANCING AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
debate on H.R. 3540, making appropriations for foreign operations, export
financing, and related programs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1997.
The rule waives points of order against consideration of the bill for failing
to comply with clause 1(b) of rule X (requiring a detailed explanation in the
committee report on any rescissions or transfers of unexpected balances), or
clause 7 of rule XXI (the 3-day requirement for availability of printed
hearings and reports). 

The rule provides that the bill shall be considered by title rather than by
paragraph and that each title shall be considered as read. The rule waives
points of order against provisions in the bill which do not comply with clause
2 of rule XXI (prohibiting unauthorized appropriations and legislation on
general appropriation bills), clause 5(b) of rule XXI (prohibiting the
reporting of legislation carrying a tax or tariff by any committee not having
jurisdiction), and clause 6 of rule XXI (prohibiting transfers of unobligated
balances), except as specified in the rule. 

The rule accords priority in recognition to Members who have pre-printed their
amendments in the Congressional Record. The chairman of the Committee on the
Whole may postpone recorded votes on any amendment and the chairman may reduce
voting time on postponed questions to 5 minutes, provided that the vote takes
place immediately following another recorded vote and that the voting time on
the first in a series of questions be not less than 15 minutes. 
 
The rule provides that if a motion to rise and report the bill to the House
with such amendments as may have been adopted is offered by the Majority
Leader or a designee, after the reading of the final lines of the bill, it
shall have precedence over a motion to amend. Finally, the rule provides one
motion to recommit, with or without instructions. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Callahan and Wilson. 

EPA'S COMPLIANCE WITH PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT

Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Government Programs held a
hearing on the EPA's compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.
Testimony was heard from Thomas E. Kelly, Director, Office of Regulatory
Management and Evaluation, Office of Policy, Planning, and Evaluation, EPA. 

                                          [Page: D545]

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation
approved for full Committee action the following bills: H.R. 3267, Child Pilot
Safety Act; H.R. 3536, Airline Pilot Hiring and Safety Act; and H.R. 3539,
amended, Federal Aviation Authorization Act of 1996. 

VETERANS LEGISLATION 

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Education, Training,
Employment and Housing approved for full Committee action the following bills:
H.R. 2851, amended, to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for
approval of enrollment in courses offered at certain branches or extensions of
proprietary profit institutions of higher learning in operation for more than
2 years; and H.R. 3459, to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend the
enhanced loan asset sale authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. 

The Subcommittee also held a hearing on Veterans Preference,
Reduction-in-Force, Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act
(USERRA) and on a proposed VA education services measure. Testimony was heard
from Representative Mica; Preston Taylor, Assistant Secretary, Veterans
Employment and Training, Department of Labor: James B. King, Director, OPM;
Celia Dollarhide, Director, Education Service, Veterans Benefits
Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs; representatives of veterans
organizations; and public witnesses. 

BOSNIA/IRAN ARMS 

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Bosnia/Iran Arms. Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses. 



1996/05/31
Daily Digest - Friday May 31, 1996;  pages D549 - D552

Committee Meetings

MODEL GOOD SAMARITAN FOOD DONATION ACT

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on
Postsecondary Education, Training and Life-Long Learning held a hearing on
H.R. 2428, to encourage the donation of food and grocery products to nonprofit
organizations for distribution to needy individuals by giving the Model Good
Samaritan Food Donation Act the full force and effect of law. Testimony was
heard from Representative Danner; Henry Cohen, Legislative Attorney,
Congressional Research Service, Library of Congress; and a public witness. 



1996/06/03
Daily Digest - Monday, June 3, 1996;  pages D553 - D556

Committee Meetings 

No committee meetings were held. 



1996/06/04
Daily Digest - Tuesday, June 4, 1996;  pages D558 - D562

Committee Meetings

INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Technology held a hearing on the
increasing importance of International Standards to the U.S. Industrial
Community and the Impact of ISO 14000. Testimony was heard from Belinda
Collins, Director, Office of Standards Services, National Institute of
Standards and Technology, Department of Commerce; and public witnesses. 

WORKER CLASSIFICATION ISSUES

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Oversight held a hearing on
Worker Classification Issues. Testimony was heard from Senator Gramm;
Representatives Christensen and Kim; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D561]

SOCIAL SECURITY TRUST FUND

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Social Security held a hearing on
the use of Social Security Trust Fund money to finance union activities at the
SSA. Testimony was heard from Jane Ross, Director, Income Security Issues,
Health, Education, and Human Services Division, GAO; and public witnesses. 



1996/06/05
Daily Digest - Wednesday, June 5, 1996;  pages D564 - D570

Committee Meetings

TRADE OPPORTUNITIES IN THE PACIFIC RIM

Committee on Agriculture: Held a hearing on Trade Opportunities in the Pacific
Rim. Testimony was heard from Dan Glickman, Secretary of Agriculture; Jeffrey
Lang, Deputy U.S. Trade Representative; and public witnesses. 

DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Ordered reported the Defense appropriations for
fiscal year 1997. 

INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior approved for full
Committee action the Interior appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA MANAGEMENT/OPERATING IMPROVEMENTS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on the District of Columbia held a
hearing on D.C. Management/Operating Improvements. Testimony was D568heard
from the following officials of the District of Columbia: Michael Rogers, City
Administrator; and Anthony Williams, Chief Financial Officer; John Hill, Jr.,
Executive Director, D.C. Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance
Authority; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D568]

OVERSIGHT--SSA'S ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGES

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
held an oversight hearing regarding the performance of the SSA's
Administrative Law Judges of Mobile, Alabama, and related issues. Testimony
was heard from Representative Callahan; the following Administrative Law
Judges, SSA: Charles Bowyer, Chief; Henry G. Watkins, Regional Chief; Frank M.
DeBellis and Robert S. Haberman, both of Mobile, Alabama; and Melford
Cleveland, Birmingham, Alabama; and a public witness. 

W-2 WISCONSIN WORKS

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a modified closed rule providing 1
hour of debate on H.R. 3562, to authorize the State of Wisconsin to implement
the demonstration project known as "Wisconsin Works". The rule provides for
the adoption of the amendment printed in Section 2 of the resolution. The rule
provides for the consideration of an amendment offered by Representative
Kleczka or his designee, which shall be considered as read and shall be
debatable for 1 hour equally divided and controlled by the proponent and an
opponent. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit, with or without
instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman Archer and Representatives
Neumann, Gibbons, Kleczka, Obey and Barrett of Wisconsin. 

ISTEA REAUTHORIZATION

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Surface
Transportation continued hearings on ISTEA Reauthorization Maintaining
Adequate Infrastructure: the Interstate Maintenance National Highway System,
Bridge and Reimbursement Programs. Testimony was heard from Rodney E. Slater,
Administrator, Federal Highway Administration, Department of Transportation;
Jesse L. White, Jr., Federal Co-Chairman, Appalachian Regional Commission;
Robert A. Welke, Director, Department of Transportation, State of Michigan;
James Siebels, Chief Engineer, Department of Transportation, State of
Colorado; Fred VanKirk, Secretary/Commissioner, Department of Transportation,
State of West Virginia; from the following former officials of the Federal
Highway Administration, Department of Transportation: John Hassell,
Administrator; and Gene McCormick, Deputy Administrator; and public witnesses. 

Hearings continue June 18. 

BUDGET RECONCILIATION WELFARE RECOMMENDATIONS

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Human Resources approved for full
committee action budget reconciliation welfare recommendations. 



1996/06/06
Daily Digest - Thursday, June 6, 1996;  pages D571 - D578

Committee Meetings

STATE MEAT AND POULTRY INSPECTION

Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry held a
hearing to review the statutory prohibition on interstate shipment of state
inspected meat and poultry products. Testimony was heard from Craig Reed,
Associate Administrator, Inspection Operations, Food Safety and Inspection
Service, USDA; Rick Perry, Commissioner, Department of Agriculture, State of
Ohio; Alan Tracy, Secretary, Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer
Protection, State of Wisconsin; and public witnesses. 

AGRICULTURE, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Ordered reported the Agriculture, Rural
Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies appropriations
for fiscal year 1997. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation approved for full
Committee action the Transportation appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

FINANCIAL SERVICES COMPETITIVENESS REGULATORY RELIEF ACT

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Began markup of the Financial
Services Competitiveness and Regulatory Relief Act. 

Will continue June 11. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Health and Environment approved for
full Committee action the following: Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments of
1996; and H.R. 248, amended, to amend the Public Health Service Act to provide
for the conduct of expanded studies and the establishment of innovative
programs with respect to traumatic brain injury. 

RETIREMENT CRISIS AHEAD?

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on
Employer-Employee Relations held a hearing on Retirement Crisis Ahead?:
Exploring Ways to Simplify and Expand Pensions. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses. 

OPEN CAMPUS POLICE LOGS ACT

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on
Postsecondary Education, Training and Life-Long Learning held a hearing on
H.R. 2416, Open Campus Police Logs Act of 1995. Testimony was heard from David
Longanecker, Assistant Secretary, Office of Postsecondary Education,
Department of Education; and public witnesses. 

CENSUS 2000: THE CHALLENGE OF THE COUNT

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Held a hearing on Census 2000:
The Challenge of the Court. Testimony was heard from the following officials
of the Department of Commerce: Everett M. Ehrlich, Under Secretary, Economic
Affairs; and Martha F. Riche, Director, Bureau of the Census. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Human Resources
and Intergovernmental Relations held an oversight hearing on the Department of
Education's Management of Access to Federal Student Aid Programs. Testimony
was heard from Cornelia M. Blanchette, Associate Director, Education and
Employment Issues, GAO; the following officials of the Department of
Education: D576David A. Longanecker, Assistant Secretary, Postsecondary
Education; and Thomas R. Bloom, Inspector General; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D576]

SUBPOENA--AID OFFICIAL

Committee on International Relations: Approved, by voice vote, a motion
authorizing the issuance of a subpoena to compel the testimony of Larry E.
Byrne, Assistant Administrator, Management, AID, U.S. International
Development Cooperation Agency. 

NEW PERSPECTIVES ON AFRICA

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Africa held a hearing on
New Perspectives on Africa. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

WESTERN HEMISPHERE--WAR ON DRUGS

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere
held a hearing on the War on Drugs in the Western Hemisphere: Fact or Fiction?
Testimony was heard from Representatives Diaz-Balart and Shaw; Gen. Barry
McCaffrey, USA, Director, Office of National Drug Control Policy; Robert S.
Gelbard, Assistant Secretary, International Narcotics and Law Enforcement
Affairs, Department of State; and Thomas A. Constantine, Administrator, DEA,
Department of Justice. 

PAROLE COMMISSION PHASEOUT ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime held a hearing on S. 1507,
Parole Commission Phaseout Act of 1995. Testimony was heard from Richard J.
Arcara, Judge, U.S. District Court, Western District of New York; and the
following officials of the Department of Justice: Edward F. Reilly, Jr.,
Chairman, U.S. Parole Commission; and Robert S. Litt, Deputy Assistant
Attorney General, Criminal Division. 

U.S. NATIONAL SECURITY INTERESTS--POST-COLD WAR WORLD

Committee on National Security: Held a hearing on U.S. national security
interests in the Post-Cold War world. Testimony was heard from Paul D.
Wolfowitz, former Under Secretary, Policy, Department of Defense; and public
witnesses. 
 
OVERSIGHT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans held an
oversight hearing on "Teaming With Wildlife". Testimony was heard from Dan
Ashe, Assistant Director, External Affairs, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
Department of the Interior; Robert L. McDowell, Director, Division of Fish,
Game and Wildlife, State of New Jersey; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Lands
held a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 2122, to designate the Lake Tahoe
Basin National Forest in the States of California and Nevada to be
administered by the Secretary of Agriculture; H.R. 2438, to provide for the
conveyance of lands to certain individuals in Gunnison County, Colorado; H.R.
2518, to authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to exchange certain lands in
the Wenatchee National Forest, Washington, for certain lands owned by Public
Utility District No. 1 of Chelan County, Washington; H.R. 2693, to require the
Secretary of Agriculture to make a minor adjustment in the exterior boundary
of Hells Canyon Wilderness in Oregon and Idaho to exclude an established
Forest Service road inadvertently included in the wilderness; H.R. 2709, to
provide for the conveyance of certain land to the Del Norte County Unified
School District of Del Norte County, California; H.R. 3146, to provide for the
exchanges of certain Federal lands in the State of California for certain
non-federal lands; and H.R. 3547, to provide for the conveyance of a parcel of
real property in the Apache National Forest in Arizona to the Alpine
Elementary School District 7 to be used for the construction of school
facilities and related playing fields. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Vucanovich, McInnis, Hastings of Washington, Cooley of Oregon,
Riggs, Radanovich and Hayworth; and Grey Reynolds, Deputy Chief, Forest
Service, USDA. 

SHIPBUILDING TRADE AGREEMENT ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a modified closed rule providing 1
hour of debate on H.R. 2754, Shipbuilding Trade Agreement Act. The rule waives
all points of order against consideration of the bill. 

The rule makes in order the amendment in the nature of a substitute as
recommended by the Committee on Ways and Means, as modified by the amendment
printed in part 1 of the report of the Committee on Rules accompanying the
resolution, as an original bill for amendment purposes which shall be
considered as read. The rule waives all points of order against the amendment
in the nature of a substitute, as modified. 

The rule provides for an amendment printed in part 2 of the report of the
Committee on Rules accompanying the resolution and waives all points of order
against the amendment. The amendment may be offered only by a Member
designated in the report, shall be considered as read, shall be debatable for
1 hour equally divided and controlled by the proponent and an opponent, shall
not be subject to D577amendment, and shall not be subject to a demand for a
division of the question in the House or in the Committee of the Whole.
Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit, with or without
instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairmen Archer and Spence; and
Representatives Bateman, Gibbons, Dellums and Taylor of Mississippi. 

                                          [Page: D577]

PATENT SYSTEM AND MODERN TECHNOLOGY NEEDS

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Technology held a hearing on Patent
System and Modern Technology Needs: Meeting the Challenge of the 21st Century.
Testimony was heard from Bruce A. Lehman, Assistant Secretary and Commissioner
of Patents and Trademarks, Department of Commerce; and public witnesses. 

SMALL BUSINESS INVESTMENT COMPANY PROGRAM REFORMS

Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing on the proposed reforms of the
Small Business Investment Company Program. Testimony was heard from Patricia
Forbes, Acting Associate Deputy Administrator, Economic Development, SBA; and
public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Ordered reported the following
measures: H.R. 3572, to designate the bridge on U.S. Route 231, which crosses
the Ohio River between Maceo, KY, and Rockport, IN, as the "William H. Natcher
Bridge"; H. Con. Res. 172, authorizing the 1996 Summer Olympic Torch Relay to
be run through the Capitol Grounds; H.R. 3186, to designate the Federal
building located at 1655 Woodson Road in Overland, MO, as the "Sammy L. Davis
Federal Building;" H.R. 3364, amended, to designate a U.S. Courthouse in
Scranton, PA, as the "William J. Nealon United States Courthouse;" H.R. 3400,
amended, to designate the United States courthouse to be constructed at a site
on 18th Street between Dodge and Douglas Streets in Omaha, NE, as the "Roman
L. Hruska United States Courthouse"; H.R. 3267, Child Pilot Safety Act; H.R.
3536, amended, Airline Pilot Hiring and Safety Act; and H.R. 3539, amended,
Federal Aviation Authorization Act of 1996. 

MEDICARE PROGRAM--FINANCIAL CONDITION

Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing on the Financial Condition of the
Medicare Program. Testimony was heard from Robert E. Rubin, Secretary of the
Treasury; and Donna E. Shalala, Secretary of Health and Human Services. 

BOSNIA

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Bosnia. Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses. 



1996/06/07
Daily Digest - Friday, June 7, 1996;  pages D580 - D584

Committee Meetings

PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE CLOSURE--IMPACTS ON DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight. Subcommittee on the District of
Columbia held an oversight hearing on the impacts of the Closure of
Pennsylvania Avenue on the District of Columbia. Testimony was heard from
Senator Grams; Representative Moran; the following officials of the Department
of the Treasury; James Johnson, Assistant Secretary, Enforcement; and Eljay
Bowron, Director, U.S. Secret Service; Rodney Slater, Administrator, Federal
Highway Administration, Department of Transportation; William Lawson,
Assistant Regional Administrator, GSA; Dennis Galvin, Associate Director,
Professional Services, National Park Service, Department of the Interior;
Marion Barry, Mayor, District of Columbia; and public witnesses.



1996/06/10
Daily Digest - Monday, June 10, 1996;  pages D586 - D590

Committee Meetings

CONFERENCE REPORT--BUDGET RESOLUTION

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a rule waiving all points of order
against the conference report to accompany H. Con. Res. 178, establishing
D588the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year
1997 and setting forth appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 1998, 1999, 
2000, 2001, and 2002, and against its consideration. The rule provides
that the conference report shall be considered as read. The rule provides 1
hour of debate on the conference report, equally divided between the chairman
and ranking minority member of the Committee on the Budget. Testimony was
heard from Chairman Kasich. 

                                          [Page: D588]

AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
debate on H.R. 3603, making appropriations for Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies programs for the fiscal
year ending September 30, 1997. The rule waives clause 2(l)(6) of rule XI (3
day layover), clause 7 of rule XXI (3 day availability of printed hearings and
reports on appropriations bills), or section 302(c) of the Budget Act
(subcommittee allocation requirement) against consideration of the bill. The
rule waives clause 2 of rule XXI (prohibiting unauthorized appropriations and
legislation of general appropriations bills) and clause 6 of rule XXI
(prohibiting reappropriations) against the bill. 

The rule provides priority in recognition for amendments preprinted in the
Congressional Record prior to consideration. The Chairman of the Committee of
the Whole may postpone recorded votes on any amendment and that the Chairman
may reduce voting time on postponed questions to 5 minutes, provided that the
vote immediately follows another recorded vote and that the voting time on the
first in a series of votes is not less than 15 minutes. The rule provides that
after the reading of the final lines of the bill, a motion to rise, if offered
by the Majority leader or a designee, will have precedence over a motion to
amend. The rule provides one motion to recommit, with or without instructions.
Finally, the rule provides in Section 2 of the rule that the section 602(b)
allocations in the budget resolution conference report will be in effect for
the consideration of this bill. Testimony was heard from Representative Skeen. 



1996/06/11
Daily Digest - Tuesday, June 11, 1996;  pages D591 - D598

Committee Meetings

BUDGET RESOLUTION--FOOD STAMP REFORM PROGRAM

Committee on Agriculture: Began consideration of recommendations to the
Committee on the Budget to comply with the instructions included in the Budget
Resolution (Food Stamp Reform Program). 

Committee recessed subject to call. 

FINANCIAL SERVICES COMPETITIVENESS AND REGULATORY RELIEF ACT

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Continued consideration of the
Financial Services Competitiveness and Regulatory Relief Act. 

FUTURE OF MONEY

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Domestic and
International Monetary Policy continued hearings on the Future of Money, Part
IV. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND WORK OPPORTUNITY ACT

Committee on Commerce: Held a hearing on H.R. 3507, Personal Responsibility
and Work Opportunity Act of 1996. Testimony was heard from Donna E. Shalala,
Secretary of Health and Human Services; Joseph Teefey, Deputy Director,
Department of Medical Assistance Services, State of Virginia; and public
witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D596]

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Commerce: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 3431,
Armored Car Reciprocity Improvement Act of 1996; and H.R. 3604, amended, Safe
Drinking Water Act Amendments of 1996. 

PROFESSIONAL BOXING SAFETY ACT

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Hazardous
Materials and the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections of the Committee on
Economic and Educational Opportunities held a joint hearing on H.R. 1186 and
S. 187, Professional Boxing Safety Act. Testimony was heard from Senators
McCain and Bryan; Representatives Owens and Williams; and public witnesses. 

FURTHER DOWNSIZING AND REINVENTION

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Civil Service
concluded hearings on Further Downsizing and Reinvention, Part II. Testimony
was heard from the following officials of GAO: Timothy Bowling, Associate
Director, Federal Workforce Management Issues; and Henry W. Wray, Associate
General Counsel; John Koskinen, Deputy Director, Management, OMB; and James B.
King, Director, OPM. 

PROSPECTS FOR FREE AND FAIR ELECTIONS IN BOSNIA

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on Prospects for Free and
Fair Elections in Bosnia. Testimony was heard from Ambassador William
Montgomery, Special Advisor for the Implementation of the Dayton Peace Accord,
Department of State; and public witnesses. 

CHILD LABOR

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Operations
and Human Rights held a hearing on Child Labor. Testimony was heard from
Representative Morella and Miller of California; the following officials of
the Department of Labor: Maria Echaveste, Administrator, Wage and Hour
Division, Employment Standards Administration; and Sonia Rosen, Director,
International Child Labor Studies; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on the Judiciary: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 3525,
amended, Church Arson Prevention Act of 1996; H.R. 3166, amended, Government
Accountability Act of 1996; H.R. 3460, amended, Inventor Rights Protection and
Patent Reform Act of 1996; and H.R. 740, to confer jurisdiction on the U.S.
Court of Federal Claims with respect to land claims of Pueblo of Isleta Indian
tribe. 

The Committee also approved private claims bills. 

The Committee began markup of H.R. 3396, Defense of Marriage Act. 

Will continue tomorrow. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Held a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 401, Kenai
Natives Association Equity Act of 1995; and H.R. 2505, to amend the Alaska
Native Claims Settlement Act to make certain clarifications to the land bank
protection provisions. Testimony was heard from Deborah L. Williams, Special
Assistant to the Secretary for Alaska, Department of the Interior; and other
witnesses. 

WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Water
Resources and Environment approved for full Committee action H.R. 3592, Water
Resources Development Act of 1996. 

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS PHARMACY PROGRAM

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Hospitals and Health Care held
a hearing on the Department of Veterans Affairs pharmacy program with emphasis
on over-the-counter drugs, medical supplies and dietary supplements. Testimony
was heard from David P. Baine, Director, Health Care Delivery and Quality
Issues, Health, Education, and Human Services Division, GAO; and John E.
Ogden, Director, Pharmacy Service, Department of Veterans Affairs. 

GRADUATE MEDICAL EDUCATION

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on Teaching
Hospitals and Other Issues Related to Graduate Medical Education. Testimony
was heard from public witnesses. 

U.S.-CHINA TRADE RELATIONS

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Trade held a hearing on
U.S.-China Trade Relations and Renewal of China's Most-Favored-Nation Status.
Testimony was heard from Representatives Solomon, Kolbe, Pelosi, Smith of New
Jersey, Wolf, Kaptur, Cox of California, Rohrabacher and Scarborough; Charlene
Barshefsky, Acting U.S. Trade Representative; Winston, Lord, Assistant
Secretary, East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Department of State; and public
witnesses. 

INTELLIGENCE COLLECTION REGARDING HAITI

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Subcommittee on Human
Intelligence, Analysis, and Counterintelligence met in executive session to
hold a hearing on the Politicization of Intelligence Collection D597Regarding
Haiti. Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses. 



1996/06/12
Daily Digest - Wednesday, June 12, 1996;  pages D600 - D606

Committee Meetings

INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Ordered reported Interior appropriations for
fiscal year 1997. 

FANNIE MAE AND FREDDIE MAC--PRIVATIZATION

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Capital Markets,
Securities and Government Sponsored Enterprises held a hearing on the
Privatization of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Testimony was heard from June
O'Neill, Director, CBO; and James Bothwell, Director, Financial Institutions
and Market Issues, GAO. 

GAO REPORT--DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY'S ALIGNMENT AND DOWNSIZING INITIATIVE

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Power held a hearing on the
GAO Report on the Department of Energy's Strategic Alignment and Downsizing
Initiative. Testimony was heard from Bernice Steinhardt, Associate Director,
Resources, Community and Economic Development Division, GAO; and Donald W.
Pearman, Jr., Associate Deputy Secretary, Field Management, Department of
Energy. 

DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY--TRAVEL EXPENDITURES

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations continued
hearings on the Department of Energy: Travel Expenditures and Related Issues.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

Hearings continue tomorrow. 

BUDGET RECONCILIATION RECOMMENDATIONS--WELFARE REFORM

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Approved welfare reform
reconciliation recommendations to be transmitted to the Committee on the
Budget for inclusion in the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act for fiscal year
1997. 

BLUE PLAINS WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on the District of
Columbia held a hearing on Blue Plains Wastewater Treatment Plant. Testimony
was heard from Representative Hoyer; Michael McCabe, Regional Administrator,
EPA; the following officials of the District of Columbia: Michael Rogers, City
Administrator; and Larry King, Director, Department of Public Works; Kate
Hanley, Chairman, Board of Supervisors, Fairfax County, Virginia; and public
witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on National
Security, International Affairs, and Criminal Justice held a hearing on
oversight of Federal Drug Interdiction Efforts in Mexico: Review of a Rising
National Security Threat. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the GAO: Ben Nelson, Director, International Relations and Trade Issues; and
Alan Fleener, Senior Evaluator; George Weise, Commissioner, U.S. Customs
Service, Department of the Treasury; and Doug Wankle, Chief of Operations,
DEA, Department of Justice. 

MIDDLE EAST DEVELOPMENTS

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on Developments in the
Middle East. Testimony was heard from Robert H. Pelletreau, Assistant
Secretary, Near Eastern Affairs, Department of State. 

DEFENSE OF MARRIAGE ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Ordered reported H.R. 3396, Defense of Marriage
Act. 

WAR CRIMES ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration and Claims held a
hearing on H.R. 2587, War Crimes Act of 1995. Testimony was heard from Michael
Matheson, Principal Deputy Legal Advisor, Department of State; John H. McNeil,
Senior Deputy General Counsel (International Affairs and Intelligence),
Department of Defense; and public witnesses. 

U.S.-PUERTO RICO POLITICAL STATUS ACT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Native American and Insular Affairs
approved for full Committee action amended H.R. 3024, United States-Puerto
Rico Political Status Act. 

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
debate on H.R. 3610, making appropriations for the Department of Defense for
the fiscal year ending September 30, 1997. The rule waives all points of order
against consideration of the bill for failure to comply with clause 2(I)(6) of
rule XI (the 3-day requirement for availability of the report), clause 7 of
rule XXI (the 3-day requirement for availability of printed hearings and
reports on appropriations bills) or section 302(c) of the Congressional Budget
Act of 1974 (prohibiting consideration D604of legislation containing new
budget or spending authority within the jurisdiction of a committee until that
committee makes allocations in connection with the most recent budget
resolution). 

                                          [Page: D604]

The rule waives points of order against provisions in the bill which do not
comply with clause 2 of rule XXI (prohibiting unauthorized appropriations and
legislation on general appropriations bills) and clause 6 of rule XXI
(prohibiting transfers of unobligated balances). The rule makes in order,
without intervention of any point of order, the amendment printed in the
report of the Committee on Rules to be offered by Mr. Young of Florida or his
designee, prior to consideration of any other amendments. The amendment shall
be debatable for 20 minutes divided equally between the proponent and an
opponent, shall not be subject to amendment and shall not be subject to a
demand for a division of the question. The rule provides that if the amendment
is adopted, the bill, as amended, shall be considered as the original bill for
purposes of further amendment. 

The rule provides that after the disposition of such amendment, the
appropriate allocation of new discretionary budget authority within the
meaning of section 302(f)(1) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 shall be
$245,065,000,000. The corresponding level of budget outlays shall be
$243,372,000,000. 

The rule accords priority in recognition to those amendments that are
pre-printed in the Congressional Record. The rule provides that the Chairman
of the Committee of the Whole may postpone recorded votes on any amendment and
that the chairman may reduce voting time on postponed questions to 5 minutes,
provided that the vote takes place immediately following another recorded vote
and that the voting time on the first in a series of questions be not less
than 15 minutes. 

The rule further provides that a motion to rise and report the bill to the
House with such amendments as may have been adopted shall have precedence over
a motion to amend, if offered by the Majority Leader or a designee after the
reading of the final lines of the bill. Finally, the rule provides one motion
to recommit, with or without instructions. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Young of Florida, Murtha, and Menendez. 

SPACE LAUNCH STRATEGY

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics held a hearing on
U.S. Space Launch Strategy. Testimony was heard from Daniel S. Goldin,
Administrator, NASA; Robert Davis, Deputy Under Secretary, Space, Department
of Defense; Frank Weaver, Associate Administrator, Commercial Space
Transportation, FAA, Department of Transportation; the following officials of
the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative: Don Eiss, Deputy Assistant U.S.
Trade Representative, Industry and Labor; and Catherine A. Novelli, Deputy
Assistant U.S. Trade Representative, Eastern/Central Europe and Eurasia; and
public witnesses. 

COASTWISE TRADE LAWS IMPACT

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Coast Guard
and Maritime Transportation held an oversight hearing on the impact of U.S.
coastwise trade laws on the transportation system in the United States.
Testimony was heard from Albert J. Herberger, Administrator, Maritime
Administration, Department of Transportation; Stuart P. Seidel, Assistant
Commissioner, Office of Regulation and Ruling, U.S. Customs Service,
Department of the Treasury; Robert A. Rogowsky, Director of Operations, U.S.
International Trade Commission; and public witnesses. 

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS--CUSTOMER SERVICE STANDARDS

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Compensation, Pension,
Insurance and Memorial Affairs and the Subcommittee on Education, Training,
Employment and Housing held a joint hearing on customer service standards at
the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Veterans' Employment and Training
Service. Testimony was heard from Robert Gardner, Chief Financial Officer,
Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs; Preston
Taylor, Assistant Secretary, Veterans' Employment and Training, Department of
Labor; and representatives of veterans organizations. 

BUDGET RECONCILIATION RECOMMENDATIONS--WELFARE REFORM

Committee on Ways and Means: Approved of welfare reform reconciliation
recommendations to be transmitted to the Committee on the Budget for inclusion
in the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act for fiscal year 1937. 

BRIEFING--RUSSIAN PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to
receive a briefing on Russian Presidential Elections. The Committee was
briefed by departmental witnesses. 



1996/06/13
Daily Digest - Thursday, June 13, 1996;  pages D608 - D614

Committee Meetings

BUDGET RECONCILIATION--FOOD STAMP AND COMMODITY DISTRIBUTION REFORM

Committee on Agriculture: Approved Food Stamp and Commodity Distribution
Reform reconciliation recommendations to be transmitted to the Committee on
the Budget for inclusion in the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act for fiscal
year 1997. 

VA, HUD AND INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS; REVISED BUDGET ALLOCATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Ordered reported the Veterans Affairs, Housing
and Urban Development and Independent Agencies appropriations for fiscal year
1997. 

The Committee also approved revised Budget allocations for fiscal year 1997. 

BUDGET RECONCILIATION; MISCELLANEOUS MEASURE

Committee on Commerce: Ordered transmitted to the Committee on the Budget for
inclusion in the Budget Reconciliation Act the following reconciliation
recommendations: Title II, Subtitle A--Medicaid Restructuring Act of 1996; and
Title II, Subtitle B--Other Provisions. 

The Committee also ordered reported amended H.R. 248, to amend the Public
Health Service Act to provide for the conduct of expanded studies and the
establishment of innovative programs with respect to traumatic brain injury. 

DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY: TRAVEL EXPENDITURES AND RELATED ISSUES

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations continued
hearings on the Department of Energy: Travel Expenditures and Related Issues.
Testimony was heard for the following officials of the Department of Energy:
Hazel R. O'Leary, Secretary; Donald Pearman, Acting Chief Financial Officer;
and Eric Fygi, Deputy General Counsel. 

VETERANS EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES ACT OF 1996

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Civil Service
approved for full Committee action H.R. 3586, Veterans Employment
Opportunities Act of 1996. 

FEDERAL INFORMATION POLICY

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information and Technology held on oversight hearing on
D612Federal Information Policy. Testimony was heard from Senator Leahy; the
following officials of the Department of Justice: Roslyn A. Mazer, Deputy
Assistant Attorney General, Office of Policy Development; and Kevin O'Brien,
Section Chief, Freedom of Information/Privacy Acts Section, FBI; Anthony H.
Passarella, Director, Directorate for Freedom of Information and Security
Review, office of the Assistant Secretary (Public Affairs), Department of
Defense; the following officials of the GSA: G. Martin Wagner, Associate
Administrator, Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation; and James L. Dean,
Director, Committee Management Secretariat Staff; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D612]

WHITE HOUSE COMMUNICATIONS AGENCY

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on National
Security, International Affairs, and Criminal Justice continued hearings on
White House Communications Agency, Part II. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Defense: Emmett Paige, Jr., Assistant
Secretary, Command, Control, Communications and Intelligence; and Col. J.
Simmons, IV, USA, Commander, White House Communications Agency. 

U.S. ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS IN RUSSIA, UKRAINE, ARMENIA AND OTHER NEW INDEPENDENT
STATES

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on the effectiveness of
U.S. assistance programs in Russia, Ukraine, Armenia, and the other New
Independent States. Testimony was heard from Ambassador Richard Morningstar,
Special Advisor to the President and the Secretary of State on Assistance to
the Newly Independent States and Coordinator of U.S. Assistance to the Newly
Independent States, Department of State; Thomas Dine, Assistant Administrator
for Europe and the Newly Independent States, AID, U.S. International
Development Cooperation Agency; John Ruberto, Deputy Assistant to the
Secretary for Nuclear, Chemical and Biological Defense Programs for Defense
Conversion, Department of Defense, Joan Rohlfing, Director, Office of
Non-Proliferation and National Security, Department of Energy; and Anne
Sigmund, Director, Office of East European and Newly Independent States
Affairs, USIA. 

CHALLENGES BY RUSSIA TO U.S. NATIONAL SECURITY INTERESTS 

Committee on National Security: Held a hearing on challenges posed by Russia
to U.S. national security interests. Testimony was heard from R. James
Woolsey, former Director, CIA; Richard Pipes, former National Security
Advisor; and Clifford G. Gaddy, The Brookings Institution. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans held a
hearing on the following bills: H.R. 3287, Crawford National Fish Hatchery
Conveyance Act; H.R. 3546, Walhalla National Fish Hatchery Act; and H.R. 3557,
Marion National Fish Hatchery Conveyance Act; to be followed by an oversight
hearing on Mitchell Act Hatcheries, Management of Atlantic Bluefin Tuna.
Testimony was heard from Representatives Barrett of Nebraska; Graham and
Hilliard; William Knapp, Chief, Division of Fish Hatcheries, U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior; Rolland Schmitten, Assistant
Administrator, Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA, Department
of Commerce; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands
approved for full Committee action the following bills: H.R. 2292, amended,
Hanford Reach Preservation Act; H.R. 3534, Mineral King Act of 1996; H.R.
3006, to provide for disposal of public lands in support of the Manzanar
Historic Site in the State of California; H.R. 2636, to transfer jurisdiction
over certain parcels of Federal real property located in the District of
Columbia; and H.R. 3127, amended, Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act
of 1996. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Ways and Means: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 3107,
amended, Iran Oil Sanctions Act of 1996; and H.R. 3161, to authorize the
extension of nondiscriminatory treatment (most-favored-nation treatment) to
the products of Romania. 



1996/06/14
Daily Digest - Friday, June 14, 1996;  pages D616 - D620

Committee Meetings

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information and Technology held a hearing on the following: H.R.
1281, War Crimes Disclosure Act; the Health Information and Privacy Protection
Act; and S. 1090, Electronic Freedom of Information Improvement Act of 1996.
Testimony was heard from Representative Lantos; former Representative
Elizabeth Holtzman of New York; and public witnesses. 



1996/06/17
Daily Digest - Monday, June 17, 1996;  pages D622 - D624

Committee Meetings

CAN THE UNITED STATES INCREASE OIL ROYALTIES?

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information and Technology held a hearing on "Can the United State
Increase Oil Royalties?" Testimony was heard from Representative Calvert; the
following officials of the Department of the Interior: Cynthia Quarterman,
Director, Minerals Management Service; and Robert Berman, Economist, Office of
Policy Analysis; Robert Speir, Economist, Office of Oil and Natural Gas
Policy, Department of Energy; and public witnesses. 



1996/06/18
Daily Digest - Tuesday, June 18, 1996;  pages D625 - D632

Committee Meetings

LEGISLATIVE APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative approved for full
Committee action the Legislative appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

TREASURY, POSTAL SERVICE AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Treasury, Postal Service, and
General Government approved for full committee action the Treasury, Postal
Service and General Government appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

PACIFIC NORTHWEST POWER SYSTEM

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Power held an oversight
hearing on the Pacific Northwest Power System. Testimony was heard from John
Velehradsky, Director of Engineering and Technical Service, North Pacific
Division, Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army; Donna Darm, Senior
Policy Analyst, Northwest Region, National Marine Fisheries, NOAA, Department
of Commerce; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on the District of
Columbia approved for full Committee action the following bills: H.R. 3663,
District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority Act of 1996; and H.R. 3664,
District of Columbia Government Improvement and Efficiency Act of 1996. 

AID WHISTLEBLOWER--ADMINISTRATION'S RESPONSE

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on the Administration's
response to AID Whistle Blower Paul Neifert. Testimony was heard from Larry E.
Byrne, Assistant Administrator, Management, AID, U.S. International
Development Cooperation Agency. 

CHINA MFN

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Operations
and Human Rights held a hearing on China MFN: Human Rights Consequences.
Testimony was heard from Representatives Wolf and Pelosi; and public
witnesses. 

BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENSE

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Procurement and the
Subcommittee on Military Research and Development held a joint hearing on
Ballistic Missile Defense. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the Department of Defense: RAdm. Richard D. West, USN, Acting Director,
Ballistic Missile Defense Organization; Maj. Gen. Robert E. Linhead, USAF,
Director of Plans, Department of the Air Force; and Lt. Gen. Jay M. Garner,
USA, Commanding General, Space and Strategic Defense Command, Department of
the Army. 

Hearings continue June 20. 

FEDERAL LAND USE POLICIES

Committee on Resources: Held an oversight hearing on citizens' perspectives on
Federal Land Use Policies. Testimony was heard from Melvin R. Brown, Speaker,
House of Representatives, State of Utah; Frederick W. King, Sr., Senator,
State of New Hampshire; and public witnesses. 

INDIAN TRUST FUNDS

Committee on Resources: Task Force on Indian Trust Management held an
oversight hearing on management of Indian Trust Funds. Testimony was heard
D629from Paul Homan, Special Trustee for American Indians, Department of the
Interior; Linda Calbon, Director, Civil Audits, Accounting and Information
Management Division, GAO; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D629]

INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
debate on H.R. 3662, making appropriations for the Department of the Interior
and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1997. The rule
waives points of order against consideration of the bill for failure to comply
with clause 2(l)(6) of rule XI (the three-day availability of the report) or
clause 7 of rule XXI (the three-day requirement for the availability of
printed hearings and reports on appropriations bills). 

The rule waives points of order against provisions in the bill (other than
section 117 and the two provisos under the heading "Strategic Petroleum
Reserve") for failure to comply with clause 2 of rule XXI (prohibiting
unauthorized appropriations and legislation on general appropriations bills)
or clause 6 of rule XXI (prohibiting transfers of unobligated balances). Where
points of order are waived against part of a paragraph, points of order
against a provision in another part of such paragraph may be made only against
such provision and not against the entire paragraph. 

The rule provides that an amendment striking the last proviso under the
heading "Strategic Petroleum Reserve" shall be considered as adopted in the
House and in the Committee of the Whole. 

The rule accords priority in recognition to those amendments that are
pre-printed in the Congressional Record. The rule allows the chairman of the
Committee of the Whole to postpone votes during consideration of the bill, and
to reduce votes to five minutes on a postponed question if the vote follows a
fifteen minute vote. 

The rule provides that a motion to rise and report the bill to the House with
such amendments as may have been adopted shall have precedence over a motion
to amend, if offered by the Majority Leader or a designee after the reading of
the final lines of the bill. Finally, the rule provides one motion to
recommit, with or without instructions. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Regula, Schaefer, Gilchrest, Yates and Furse. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 

ISTEA REAUTHORIZATION

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Surface
Transportation continued hearings on ISTEA Reauthorization Maintaining
Adequate Infrastructure: Federal Transit Grant Programs. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Federal Transit Administration, Department
of Transportation: Gordon J. Linton, Administrator; and Janette Sadik-Khan,
Deputy Administrator; Frank J. Wilson, Chairman and Commissioner of
Transportation, Department of Transportation, State of New Jersey; John B.
Daly, Commissioner, Department of Transportation, State of New York; and
public witnesses. 

Hearings continue June 27. 

VETERANS LEGISLATION

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Hospitals and Health Care
approved for full Committee action amended H.R. 3643, to amend title 38,
United States Code, to extend through December 31, 1998, the period during
which the Secretary of Veterans Affairs is authorized to provide priority
health care to certain veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange or who served
in the Persian Gulf War and to make such authority permanent in the case of
certain veterans exposed to ionizing radiation. 

DISAPPROVING MFN TREATMENT--PRODUCTS OF CHINA

Committee on Ways and Means: Ordered reported adversely H.J. Res. 182,
disapproving the extension of nondiscriminatory treatment--most-favored-nation
treatment--to the products of the People's Republic of China. 

INTELLIGENCE COLLECTION REGARDING HAITI

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Subcommittee on Human
Intelligence, Analysis, and Counterintelligence met in executive session to
continue hearings on the Politicization of Intelligence Collection regarding
Haiti. Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses. 



1996/06/19
Daily Digest - Wednesday, June 19, 1996;  pages D634 - D644

Committee Meetings

                                          [Page: D640]

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Agriculture: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 2670,
amended, to provide for the release of the reversionary interest held by the
United States in certain property located in the County of Iosco, MI; H.R.
3387, to designate the Southern Piedmont Conservation Research Center located
at 1420 Experimental Station Road in Watkinsville, Georgia, as the "J. Phil
Campbell, Senior Natural Resource Conservation Center;" H.R. 3464, amended, to
make a minor adjustment in the exterior boundary of the Devils Backbone
Wilderness in the Mark Twain National Forest, Missouri, to exclude a small
parcel of land containing improvements; H.R. 3665, amended, to transfer to the
Secretary of Agriculture the authority to conduct the census of agriculture;
and H.R. 1627, amended, Food Quality Protection Act of 1995. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Ordered reported the Transportation
appropriations for fiscal year 1997.  

ELECTRONIC BENEFIT TRANSFER SYSTEMS AND REGULATION

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Financial
Institutions and Consumer Credit held a hearing on Electronic Benefit Transfer
Systems and Regulation E. Testimony was heard from Ellen Haas, Under
Secretary, Division of Food, Nutrition and Consumer Service, USDA; Edward
DeSeve, Comptroller, OMB; Griffith Garwood, Director, Division of Consumer and
Community Affairs, Federal Reserve System; William Kilmartin, Comptroller,
State of Massachusetts; and public witnesses. 

WELFARE AND MEDICAID REFORM ACT

Committee on the Budget: Ordered reported the Welfare and Medicaid Reform Act
of 1996. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Power held an oversight
hearing on the Status of the International Global Climate Change Negotiations.
Testimony was heard from Rafe Pomerance, Deputy Assistant Secretary,
Environment and Development, Department of State, Marc Chupka, Acting
Assistant Secretary, Policy and International Affairs, Department of Energy;
David Gardiner, Assistant Administrator, Office of Policy Planning and
Evaluation, EPA; and Jeffrey Hunker, Deputy Assistant to the Secretary,
Department of Commerce. 

WORKER RIGHT TO KNOW ACT

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on
Employer-Employee Relations held a hearing on H.R. 3580, Worker Right to Know
Act. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

FBI BACKGROUND FILES SECURITY

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Held a hearing on Security of
FBI Background Files. Testimony was heard from the following former White
House Counsels: C. Boyden Gray; A.B. Culvahouse; and Dick Hauser, Deputy
Counsel; and the following former officials of the Office of Personnel
Security: Jane Dannenhauer; and Nancy Gemmell. 

ADMINISTRATION'S NONPROLIFERATION POLICY

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on the Administration's
Nonproliferation Policy. Testimony was heard from Lynn E. Davis, Under
Secretary, Arms Control and International Security Affairs, Department of
State; and public witnesses. 

SOUTHEAST ASIA-U.S. COMMERCIAL INTERESTS 

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific and
the Subcommittee on International Economic Policy and Trade held a joint
hearing on U.S. Commercial Interests in Southeast Asia: Tapping the "Big
Merging Markets". Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

FEDERAL RECORD KEEPING AND SEX OFFENDERS 

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime held a hearing regarding
federal record keeping and sex offenders. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Frost, Gutknecht and Zimmer; Harlin R. McEwen, Deputy
Assistant Director, Criminal Justice Information Services, FBI, Department of
Justice; and public witnesses. 

POW/MIA ISSUES 

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Personnel held a
hearing on POW/MIA issues. Testimony was heard from Kent M. Wiedemann, Deputy
Assistant Secretary, East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Department of State;
James W. Wold, Deputy Assistant Secretary, POW/MIA affairs, Department of
Defense; and public witnesses. 

Hearings continue tomorrow. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES 

Committee on Resources: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 3378, to
amend the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to extend the demonstration
program for direct billing of Medicare, Medicaid, and D641other third party
payors; H.R. 401, amended, Kenai Natives Association Equity Act of 1995; H.R.
2941, amended, Housing Improvement Act for Land Management Agencies; H.R.
3290, to authorize appropriations for the Bureau of Land Management for each
of the fiscal years 1997 through 2002; H.R. 3660; amended, Reclamation
Recycling and Water Conservation Act of 1996; H.R. 3198, National Geologic
Mapping Reauthorization Act of 1996; and H.R. 3249, amended, to authorize
appropriations for a mining institute to develop domestic technogical
capabilities for the recovery of minerals from the Nation's seabed. 

                                          [Page: D641]

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES 

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Native American and Insular Affairs
approved for full Committee action the following bills: H.R. 3640, to settle a
land claim for the Torres Martinez Indian Tribe; H.R. 3642, California Indian
Land Transfer Act; and H.R. 2591, Indian Federal Recognition Administrative
Procedures Act of 1995. 

Prior to this action, the Subcommittee held a hearing on H.R. 3640. Testimony
was heard from Representatives Bono and Brown of California; Michael Anderson,
Deputy Assistant Secretary, Indian Affairs, Bureau of Indian Affairs,
Department of the Interior; and public witnesses. 

VA, HUD, AND INDEPENDENT AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing one hour of
general debate on H.R. 3666, making appropriations for the Departments of
Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and for sundry independent
agencies, boards, commissions, corporations, and offices for fiscal year
ending September 30, 1997. The rule waives points of order against
consideration of the bill for failure to comply with clause 2(l)(6) of rule XI
(the three-day availability of the report), clause 7 of rule XXI (the
three-day requirement for availability of printed hearings and reports on
appropriation bills) and section 302(f) of the Budget Act (prohibiting
consideration of legislation providing budget authority, new entitlement
authority, or new credit authority in excess of subcommittee's 302(b)
allocation for such authority). 

The rule waives points of order against provisions in the bill (other than
sections 204 and 205) for failure to comply with clause 2 of rule XXI
(prohibiting unauthorized appropriations and legislation on general
appropriations bills) or clause 6 of rule XXI (prohibiting transfers of
unobligated balances). The rule provides for the adoption of the amendment
printed in section 2 of the resolution (to remedy the Budget Act violation). 

The rule provides for priority in recognition of those amendments that have
been preprinted in the Congressional Record. The rule allows for the Chairman
of the Committee of the Whole to postpone votes during consideration of the
bill, and to reduce to five minutes on a postponed question if the vote
follows a fifteen minute vote. 

The rule provides that a motion to rise and report the bill to the House with
such amendments as may have been adopted and shall have precedence over a
motion to amend, if offered by the Majority Leader or a designee after the
reading of the final lines of the bill. Finally, the rule provides one motion
to recommit, with or without instructions. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Lewis of California; Lazio and Stokes. 

SAVINGS IN CONSTRUCTION ACT OF 1995

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Technology approved for full Committee
action amended H.R. 2779, Savings in Construction Act of 1995. 

AVIATION SAFETY

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing on Aviation Safety: Treatment of Families After Airline Accidents.
Testimony was heard from James E. Hall, Chairman, National Transportation
Safety Board; Michael Harris, Associate Deputy Secretary, Department of
Transportation; and public witnesses. 

DVA COMPUTER MODERNIZATION

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Compensation, Pension,
Insurance and Memorial Affairs held a hearing on the DVA computer
modernization effort. Testimony was heard from Gene L. Dodaro, Assistant
Comptroller General, Accounting and Information Management Division, GAO; and
R. John Vogel, Under Secretary, Benefits, Department of Veterans Affairs. 



1996/06/20
Daily Digest - Thursday, June 20, 1996;  pages D645 - D652

Committee Meetings

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Began markup of the Labor, Health and Human
Services, and Education appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

Will continue June 25. 

DAVIS-BACON/GAO REPORT

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on Workforce
Protections and the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held a joint
hearing on the Davis-Bacon/GAO Report, focusing on Allegations of Fraud and
Barriers to Employment. Testimony was heard from Carlotta C. Joyner, Director,
Education and Employment Issues, Health, Education and Human Services
Division, GAO; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Ordered reported the following
bills: H.R. 3586, amended, Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1996; H.R.
885, to designate the United States Post Office building located at 153 East
110th Street, New York, NY, as the "Oscar Garcia Rivera Post Office Building";
H.R. 3139, to redesignate the United States Post Office building located at
245 D650Centereach Mall in Middle Country Road in Centereach, NY, as the "Rose
Y. Caracappa United States Post Office Building"; H.R. 3663, District of
Columbia Water and Sewer Authority Revenue Bond Act of 1996; and H.R. 3664,
District of Columbia Government Improvement and Efficiency Act of 1996. 

                                          [Page: D650]

The Committee also approved the following draft reports: "Laws Related to
Federal Financial Management"; and "Fraud and Abuse in Medicare and Medicaid:
Stronger Enforcement and Better Management Could Save Billions." 

U.S. POLICY TOWARD NATO ENLARGEMENT

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on U.S. Policy Toward
NATO Enlargement. Testimony was heard from Rudolf Perina, Senior Deputy
Assistant Secretary, Bureau of European and Canadian Affairs, Department of
State; and public witnesses. 

EXPORTS, JOBS, AND GROWTH ACT

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Economic
Policy and Trade approved for full Committee action the Exports, Jobs, and
Growth Act of 1996. 

HAITI

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere held
a hearing on Haiti: Where Has All the Money Gone? Testimony was heard from
Representative Goss; Jack E. Leonard, Director, Office of Caribbean Affairs,
Department of State; and Mark Schneider, Assistant Administrator, Bureau for
Latin America and the Caribbean, AID, U.S. International Development
Cooperative Agency. 

REGULATORY FAIR WARNING ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
approved for full Committee action amended H.R. 3307, Regulatory Fair Warning
Act. 

POW/MIA ISSUES

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Personnel continued
hearing on POW/MIA issues. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the Department of Defense: Malcolm Toon, Co-Chairman, U.S./Russia Joint
Commission on POW/MIAs; and Alan Liotta, Deputy Director, POW/MIA Office;
David G. Brown, Director, Korean Affairs, Department of State; and public
witnesses. 

BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENSE

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Procurement and the
Subcommittee on Military Research and Development met in executive session to
hold a classified briefing on Ballistic Missile Defense. The Subcommittee was
briefed by Gordon Oehler, Director, Nonproliferation Center, CIA. 

BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENSE

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Procurement and the
Subcommittee on Military Research and Development continued joint hearings on
Ballistic Missile Defense. Testimony was heard from Robert Einhorn, Deputy
Assistant Secretary for Nonproliferation, Bureau of Political-Military
Affairs, Department of State; and Mitchell Wallerstein, Deputy Assistant
Secretary, Counter Proliferation Policy, Department of Defense. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources held an
oversight hearing on Bureau of Land Management's oil and gas inspection,
enforcement responsibilities, and regulatory burdens on small operations.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of the
Interior: W. Hord Tipton, Assistant Director, Resource Use and Protection,
Bureau of Land Management; and Bob Brown, Acting Associate Director, Royalty
Management Program, Minerals Management Service; Janice McDougle, Associate
Deputy Chief, National Forest Systems, Forest Service, USDA; Elin D. Miller,
Director, Department of Conservation, State of California; Donald L. Mason,
Chief, Department of Natural Resources, State of Ohio; James W. Carter,
Director, Division of Oil, Gas and Mining, State of Utah; and public
witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans held an
oversight hearing on African Elephant Conservation Act of 1988 and Rhinoceros
and Tiger Conservation Act of 1994. Testimony was heard from Representative
Beilenson; Marshall Jones, Assistant Director, International Affairs, U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior; Matthew Matemba,
Director, SADC Wildlife Sector Coordinator, Department of Parks and Wildlife,
Malawi; Tony Fitzjohn, Field Director, Mkomazi Game Reserve, Tanzania; and
public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT--FOREST SERVICE APPEAL PROCESS

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands held
an oversight hearing on Forest Service Appeals Process. Testimony was heard
from Representatives Herger and Taylor of North Carolina; David G. Unger,
Associate Chief, Forest Service, USDA; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D651]

ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Technology and the Subcommittee on
Energy and Environment held a joint hearing on Environmental Regulation: A
Barrier to the Use of Environmental Technology? Testimony was heard from David
M. Gardiner, Assistant Administrator, Policy, Planning and Evaluation, EPA;
and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES 

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R.
3458, Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 1996; H.R. 3643,
to amend title 38, United States Code, to extend through December 31, 1998,
the period during which the Secretary of Veterans Affairs is authorized to
provide priority health care to certain veterans who were exposed to Agent
Orange or who served in the Persian Gulf War and to make such authority
permanent in the case of certain veterans exposed to ionizing radiation; H.R.
3673, amended, Veterans' Compensation and Readjustment Benefits Amendments of
1996; and H.R. 3674, Veterans' Education and Compensation Benefits Amendments
of 1996. 

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION ISSUES 

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Oversight continued hearings on
Employment Classification Issues. Testimony was heard from Representative
Gilchrest; the following officials of the Department of the Treasury: Donald
C. Lubick, Acting Assistant Secretary, Tax Policy; and Margaret Milner
Richardson, Commissioner, IRS; Natwar M. Gandhi, Assistant Director, Tax
Policy and Administration Issues, GAO; and public witnesses. 

BOSNIA/IRAN 

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Bosnia/Iran. Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses. 



1996/06/21
Daily Digest - Friday, June 21, 1996;  pages D654 - D658

Committee Meetings

No committee meetings were held. 



1996/06/24
Daily Digest - Monday, June 24, 1996;  pages D659 - D662

Committee Meetings 

No committee meetings were held. 



1996/06/25
Daily Digest - Tuesday, June 25, 1996;  pages D663 - D670

Committee Meetings

LABOR-HHS-EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Ordered reported the Labor, Health and Human
Services, Education appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

PRESIDENTIAL AND EXECUTIVE OFFICE ACCOUNTABILITY ACT

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information, and Technology held a hearing on H.R. 3452,
Presidential and Executive Office Accountability Act. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Mica and Shays; Franklin S. Reeder, Director, Office of
Administration, Executive Office of the President; and public witnesses. 

PERSIAN GULF WAR SYNDROME

Committee on Government Reform: Subcommittee on Human Resources and
Intergovernmental Relations continued hearings on the Status of Efforts to
Identify Persian Gulf War Syndrome, Part III. Testimony was heard from Stephen
Joseph, Assistant Secretary, Health Affairs, Department of Defense; the
following officials of the Department of Veterans Affairs: Gary Hickman,
Director, Compensation and Pension; and Frances Murphy, Director,
Environmental Service; and public witnesses. 

INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGES

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Operations
and Human Rights held a hearing on International Exchanges. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the USIA: Joseph D. Duffey, Director;
and John P. Loiello, Associate Director, Bureau of Educational and Cultural
Affairs. 

EXTREMIST ACTIVITY IN THE MILITARY

Committee on National Security: Held a hearing on extremist activity in the
military. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of Defense: Togo D. West, Jr., Secretary of the Army; John H. Dalton,
Secretary of the Navy; Sheila E. Widnall, Secretary of the Air Force; and
Edwin Dorn, Under Secretary, Personnel and Readiness; and public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Resources: Held an oversight hearing on lifting the moratorium on
listings of species under the Endangered Species Act. Testimony was heard from
John Rogers, Acting Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of
the Interior; Rolland Schmitten, Assistant Administrator, Fisheries, NOAA,
Department of Commerce; Teel Bivins, Senator, State of Texas; and public
witnesses. 

CHINA--MOST FAVORED NATION 

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a rule providing for consideration
in the House of H.J. Res. 182, disapproving the extension of nondiscriminatory
treatment (most-favored-nation treatment) to the Products of the People's
Republic of China, and waives all points of order against the joint resolution
and its consideration. The rule provides for two hours of debate, equally
divided between the Chairman of the Committee on Ways and Means and a
proponent of the joint resolution. The rule further provides that, pursuant to
the Trade Act of 1974, the previous question is ordered to final passage
without intervening motion. 

The rule provides that after the disposition of H.J. Res. 182, it shall be in
order to consider in the House a resolution, expressing the sense of the
Congress regarding U.S. concerns with human rights abuses, nuclear and
chemical weapons proliferation, illegal weapons trading, military intimidation
of Taiwan, and trade violations by the People's Republic of China and the
People's Liberation Army, and directing the committees of jurisdiction to
commence hearings and report appropriate legislation. The rule provides one
hour of debate equally divided between Representative Cox, or his designee,
and a Member opposed. Finally, the rule orders the previous question to
adoption without intervening motion. Testimony was heard from Representatives
Archer, Rohrabacher, Cox, Hunter, Funderburk, Gibbons, Pelosi, and Kaptur. 

TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
debate on H.R. 3675, making appropriations for the Department of
Transportation and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1997. 

The rule waives section 401(a) of the Budget Act (prohibiting consideration of
legislation containing contract authority not yet previously subject to
appropriations) against consideration of the bill. 

The rule waives clause 6 (prohibiting reappropriation) of rule XXI against
provisions in the bill and clause 2 (prohibiting unauthorized and legislative
D668provisions) of rule XXI against provisions in the bill except as otherwise
specified in the rule. 

                                          [Page: D668]

The rule provides that the amendment printed in section 2 of the resolution
shall be considered as adopted. 

The rule authorizes the Chair to accord priority in recognition to Members who
have preprinted their amendments in the Congressional Record. The rule allows
the Chairman of the Committee of the Whole to postpone votes during
consideration of the bill, and to reduce votes to five minutes on a postponed
question if the vote follows a fifteen minute vote. The rule provides that a
motion to rise and report the bill to the House with such amendments as may
have been adopted shall have precedence over a motion to amend, if offered by
the Majority Leader or a designee after the reading of the final lines of the
bill. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit with or without
instructions. Testimony was heard from Representative Wolf. 

OVERSIGHT--RESEARCH LABORATORY PROGRAMS

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Technology held an oversight hearing on
research Laboratory programs at NIST. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, Department of
Commerce: Robert Hebner, Acting Deputy Director; and Shukri Wakid, Acting
Director, Information Technology Laboratory; and public witnesses. 

AVIATION SAFETY

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing on Aviation Safety: Issues Raised by the Crash of Valujet Flight
592. Testimony was heard from Senator Cohen; James E. Hall, Chairman, National
Transportation Safety Board; the following officials of the Department of
Transportation: Mary Schiavo, Inspector General; David R. Hinson,
Administrator; and Anthony Broderick, Associate Administrator, Regulations and
Certification, both with the FAA; and public witnesses. 



1996/06/26
Daily Digest - Wednesday, June 26, 1996;  pages D672 - D684

Committee Meetings

LEGISLATIVE APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Ordered reported the Legislative appropriations
for fiscal year 1997. 

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on the District of Columbia held a
hearing on 1997 Budget Overview. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the District of Columbia: Marion Barry, Mayor; and David Clark,
Chairman, Council; and Andrew Brimmer, Chairman, District of Columbia
Financial Control Board. 

FDIC-INSURED INSTITUTIONS

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Capital, Markets,
Securities and Government Sponsored Enterprises held a hearing regarding
practices of FDIC-Insured Institutions Selling Nondeposit Investment Products.
Testimony was heard from: Ricki T. Hefler, Chairman, FDIC; Eugene A. Ludwig,
Comptroller of the Currency, Department of the Treasury; Edward W. Kelley,
Jr., member, Board of Governors, Federal Reserve System; Barry P. Barbash,
Director, Division of Investment Management, SEC; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Ordered reported amended
the following bills: H.R. 2391, Working Families Flexibility Act; and H.R.
2428, to encourage the donation of food and grocery products to nonprofit
organizations for distribution to needy individuals by giving the Model Good
Samaritan Food Donation Act the full force and effect of law. 

PROMOTING EXPANSION OF PENSIONS

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on
Employer-Employee Relations held a hearing on Promoting Expansion of Pensions
for American Workers. Testimony was heard from: Representative Pomeroy; Olena
Berg, Assistant Secretary, Pension and Welfare Benefits, Department of Labor;
former Representative John Erlenborn of Illinois; and public witnesses. 

FBI BACKGROUND FILES SECURITY

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Held a hearing on Security of
FBI Background Files. Testimony was heard from the following former officials
of the Administration: Bernard W. Nussbaum, Counsel; Craig Livingstone,
Director of Personnel Security; Anthony Marceca, Detailee; and William H.
Kennedy, III, Associate Counsel; and Lisa Wetlzel, Confidential Assistant to
the Secretary of the Army. 

POLITICAL MURDERS IN HAITI

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on Administration Actions
and Political Murders in Haiti. Testimony was heard from Strobe Talbott,
Deputy Secretary, Department of State. 

LIBERIAN WARLORDS

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Africa held a hearing on
Bloody Hands: Foreign Support for Liberian Warlords. Testimony was heard from
William Twadell, Deputy Assistant Secretary, African Affairs, Department of
State; James Bishop, former Ambassador to Liberia; and public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT--LEGAL SERVICES CORPORATION

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
held an oversight hearing on the Legal Services Corporation. Testimony was
heard from public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Ordered reported amendment the following bills: H.R.
3024, United States-Puerto Rico Political Status Act; H.R. 1786, to regulate
fishing in certain waters in Alaska; H.R. 3006, to provide for disposal of
public lands in support of the Manzanar Historic Site in the State of
California; H.R. 2636, to transfer jurisdiction over certain parcels of
Federal real property located in the District of Columbia; and H.R. 2292,
Hanford Reach Preservation Act. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; OVERSIGHT--NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Native American and Insular Affairs
held a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 3634, to amend provisions of the
Revised Organic Act of the Virgin Islands which relate to the temporary
absence of executive officials and the priority payment of certain bonds and
other obligations; and H.R. 3635, to direct the Secretary of the Interior to
enter into an agreement with he Governor of the Virgin Islands, upon request,
that provides for the transfer of the authority to manage Christiansted
National Historic site. Testimony was heard from Delegate Frazier; the
following officials of the Department of the Interior: Allen P. Stayman,
Director, Office of Insular Affairs; and Roger G. Kennedy, Director, National
Park Service; and Roy Schneider, Governor Virgin Islands. 

                                          [Page: D682]

The Subcommittee also held an oversight hearing on Northern Mariana Islands
issues. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
the Interior: Allen P. Stayman, Director, Office of Insular Affairs; and Wilma
Lewis, Inspector General; Sebastian Aloot, Acting Attorney General,
Commonwealth Northern Mariana Islands; and public witnesses. 

ADJOURNMENT--INDEPENDENCE DAY DISTRICT WORK PERIOD

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a rule providing for the
consideration in the House of a concurrent resolution providing for the
adjournment of the House and Senate for the Independence Day District Work
Period, any rule of the House to the contrary notwithstanding. 

SAVINGS IN CONSTRUCTION ACT

Committee on Science: Ordered reported amended H.R. 2779, Savings in
Construction Act of 1996. 

PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT COMPLIANCE

Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Government Programs held a
hearing on the Department of Labor's compliance with the Paperwork Reduction
Act of 1995. Testimony was heard from Pat Lattimore, Deputy Assistant
Secretary, Administration and Management, Department of Labor. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Coast Guard
and Maritime Transportation held an oversight hearing on Federal requirements
for evidence of financial responsibility under the Oil Pollution Act of 1990.
Testimony was heard from Daniel Sheehan, Director, National Pollution Funds
Center, U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. 

HEALTH CARE

Committee on Veterans' Affairs, Subcommittee on Hospitals and Health Care held
a hearing on the future of health care provided by the Department of Veterans
Affairs. Testimony was heard from Kenneth Kizer, M.D., Under Secretary,
Health, Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs; and
public witnesses. 

Hearings continue tomorrow. 

OMNIBUS EXPORT ADMINISTRATION ACT OF 1995

Committee on Ways and Means: Ordered reported H.R. 361, Omnibus Export
Administration Act of 1995, as amended by the House Committee on International
Relations. 

DIGITAL TELEPHONY

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Digital Telephony. Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses. 



1996/06/27
Daily Digest - Thursday, June 27, 1996;  pages D686 - D696

Committee Meetings

TREASURY, POSTAL SERVICE, AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Ordered reported the Treasury, Postal Service,
and General Government appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

ONE-CALL NOTIFICATION PROGRAM

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Power held an oversight
hearing on the One-Call Notification Program. Testimony was heard from
Representative Franks of New Jersey; Richard Felder, Associate Administrator,
Pipeline Safety Research and Special Programs Administration, Department of
Transportation; Robert Chipkevich, Chief, Pipeline/Hazardous Materials
Division, National Transportation Safety Board; and public witnesses. 

PATIENT RIGHT TO KNOW ACT

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Health and Environment approved for
full Committee action amended H.R. 2976, Patient Right to Know Act of 1996. 

CORPORATE AMERICA--WAR ON DRUGS

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on National
Security, International Affairs, and Criminal Justice held a hearing on
Corporate America and the War on Drugs. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.  

CASTRO'S CUBA--HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Operations
and Human Rights and the Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere held a joint
hearing on Human Rights Violations In Castro's Cuba: The Repression Continues.
Testimony was heard from Representative Diaz-Balart; Michael Rannenberger,
Coordinator for Cuban Affairs, Department of State; and public witnesses. 

FOREIGN BUILDING OPERATIONS

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Relations
and Human Rights held a hearing on Foreign Building Operations. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of State: Patrick
Kennedy, Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Administration; and Jacquelyn L.
Williams-Bridgers, Inspector General; and Benjamin Nelson, Director,
International Relations and Trade Issues, GAO. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; OVERSIGHT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
approved for full Committee action the following resolutions: H.J. Res. 113,
granting the consent of Congress to the compact to provide for joint natural
resource management and enforcement of laws and regulations pertaining to
natural resources and boating at the Jennings Randolph Lake Project lying in
Garrett County, MD, and Mineral County, WV, entered into between the States of
West Virginia and Maryland; and H.J. Res. 166, granting the consent of
Congress to the mutual aid agreement between the city of Bristol, VA, and the
city of Bristol, TN. 

Prior to this action, the Subcommittee held a hearing on these resolutions.
Testimony was heard D694from Senator Sarbanes; Representatives Mollohan;
Bartlett of Maryland; Boucher and Quillen; Herbert Sachs, Executive Director,
Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin; Lt. Col. Thomas Turner,
Deputy Superintendent, Natural Resources Police, State of Maryland; and
William B. Daniel, Assistant Chief, Law Enforcement Section, Department of
Natural Resources, State of West Virginia. 

                                          [Page: D694]

The Subcommittee also held an oversight and reauthorization hearing on the
Negotiated Rulemaking Act. Testimony was heard from Joseph A. Dear, Assistant
Secretary, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Department of Labor;
Wilma Liebman, Deputy Director, Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service;
Neil B. Eisner, Assistant General Counsel, Regulation and Enforcement,
Department of Transportation; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime held a hearing on the
following bills: H.R. 3565, Violent Youth Predator Act of 1996; and H.R. 3445,
Balanced Juvenile Justice and Crime Prevention Act of 1996. Testimony was
heard from the following U.S. Attorneys, Department of Justice: Karen
Schreier, District of South Dakota; and Charles Wilson, Middle District of
Florida; Jeff Sessions, Attorney General, State of Alabama; Elizabeth Weaver,
Justice, Supreme Court, State of Michigan; and public witnesses. 

WAR CRIMES ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration and Claims approved
for full Committee action H.R. 3680, War Crimes Act of 1996. 

TACTICAL AVIATION PROGRAMS

Committee on National Security: Subcommittee on Military Procurement and the
Subcommittee on Military Research and Development held a joint hearing on
tactical aviation programs. Testimony was heard from the following officials
of the Department of Defense: Paul Kaminski, Under Secretary, Acquisition and
Technology; and Gen. Joe Ralston, USAF, Vice Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff
and Chairman, Joint Requirements Oversight Council; the following officials of
the National Security Division, CBO: Cindy Williams, Assistant Director; Lane
Pierrot and JoAnn Vines, both Principal Analysts; and the following of the
GAO: Richard Davis, Director, National Security Issues; and Louis Rodriques,
Director, Defense Acquisitions.

OVERSIGHT--NATURAL GAS-ROYALTY-IN-KIND PILOT PROGRAM

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources held an
oversight hearing on Royalty-In-Kind for natural gas (lessons learned from the
Gulf of Mexico pilot program). Testimony was heard from Cynthia L. Quarterman,
Director, Minerals Management Service, Department of the Interior; Stroud C.
Kelley, Special Counsel, Energy Policy, General Land Office, State of Texas;
and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans
approved for full Committee action amended the following bills; H.R. 3287,
Crawford National Fish Hatchery Conveyance Act; H.R. 3546, Walhalla National
Fish Hatchery Conveyance Act; and H.R. 3557, Marion National Fish Hatchery
Conveyance Act. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands
approved for full Committee action the following bills: H.R. 2122, amended, to
consolidate the management of the national forests in the Lake Tahoe region
from four forests to one; H.R. 2438, amended, to provide for the conveyance of
lands to certain individuals in Gunnison County, Colorado; H.R. 2518, to
authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to exchange certain lands in the
Wenatchee National Forest for certain lands owned by Public Utility District
No. 1 of Chelan County, Washington; H.R. 2693, to make a minor adjustment in
the exterior boundary of Hells Canyon Wilderness in Oregon and Idaho; H.R.
2709, amended, to provide for the conveyance of certain land to the Del Norte
County Unified School District of Del Norte County, California; H.R. 3547,
amended, to provide for the conveyance of a parcel of real property in the
Apache National Forest in Arizona to the Alpine Elementary School District 7
to be used for the construction of school facilities and related playing
fields; H.R. 3147, to provide for the exchange of certain lands in the State
of California managed by the Bureau of Land Management for certain non-federal
lands; H.R. 2135, amended, to provide for the correction of boundaries of
certain lands in Clark County, Nevada, acquired by persons who purchased such
lands in good faith reliance on existing private land surveys; H.R. 2711, to
provide for the substitution of timber for the canceled Elkhorn Ridge Timber
Sale; and H.R. 2466, amended, Federal Land Exchange Improvement Act of 1995. 

COMPETITION FOR FEDERAL CONTRACTS

Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing on Small Business Competition for
Federal Contracts: The Impact of Federal Prison Industries. Testimony was
heard from Steve B. Schwalb, Chief Operating Officer, Federal Prison
Industries, and Assistant Director, D695Industries, Education and Vocational
Training, FBI, Department of Justice; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D695]

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 

WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT; DEEPWATER PORT MODERNIZATION ACT;
CONSTRUCTION RESOLUTION

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Ordered reported amended the
following bills: H.R. 3592, Water Resources Development Act of 1996; and H.R.
2940, Deepwater Port Modernization Act. 

The Committee also approved an amendment to a previously approved construction
resolution. 

HEALTH CARE 

Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Hospitals and Health Care
concluded hearings on the future of health care provided by the Department of
Veterans Affairs. Testimony was heard from Robert Kolodner, M.D., Deputy Chief
Information Officer, Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans
Affairs; RAdm. William R. Rowley, USN, M.D., Commander, Naval Medical Center,
Portsmouth, VA; David Baine, Director, Health Care Delivery and Quality
Issues, Health, Education and Human Services Division, GAO; representatives of
veterans organizations; and public witnesses.  

BARRIERS TO ADOPTION

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Human Resources held a hearing on
Barriers to Adoption. Testimony was heard from Senator DeWine; Representatives
Miller of California, and Fawell; Connie Binsfeld, Lt. Gov., State of
Michigan; D. Bruce Levy, Administrative Judge, Juvenile Division, 11th
Judicial Circuit, Miami, Florida; and public witnesses. 

SOCIAL SECURITY TRUST FUND

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Social Security concluded
hearings on the use of Social Security Trust Fund money to finance union
activities at the Social Security Administration. Testimony was heard from
Shirley Sears Chater, Commissioner, SSA. 



1996/06/28
Daily Digest - Friday, June 28, 1996;  pages D698 - D702

Committee Meetings

No committee meetings were held. 



1996/07/08
Daily Digest - Monday, July 8, 1996;  pages D703 - 708

Committee Meetings

No committee meetings were held. 



1996/07/09
Daily Digest - Tuesday, July 9, 1996;  pages D709 - D714

Committee Meetings 

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, STATE, AND JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State, and
Judiciary approved for full Committee action the Commerce, Justice, State, and
Judiciary appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA APPROPRIATIONS 

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on the District of Columbia held a
hearing on GAO Reports. Testimony was heard from Gregory M. Holloway,
Director, Government Wide Audits, GAO. 

TRAVEL REFORM AND SAVINGS ACT 

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information, and Technology held a hearing on H.R. 3637, Travel
Reform and Savings Act of 1996. Testimony was heard from Jack L. Brock, Jr.,
Director, Information Resources Management/General Government Issues,
Accounting and Information Division, GAO; John Hamre, Comptroller, Department
of Defense; G. Martin Wagner, Associate Administrator, Office of Policy
Planning and Evaluation, GSA; Donald K. Charney, Chief Financial Officer, AID,
U.S. International Development Cooperation Agency; and a public witness. 

INTERNATIONAL BROADCASTING 

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Operations
and Rights held a hearing on International Broadcasting. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the USIA: Joseph D. Duffey, Director; and
Geoffrey Cowan, Director, Voice of America; David W. Burke, Chairman,
Broadcasting Board of Governors; Kevin Klose, President, Radio Free
Europe/Radio Liberty; and Richard Richter, President, Asia Pacific Network. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands held
a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 3155, to amend the Wild and Scenic
Rivers Act by designating the Wekiva River, Seminole Creek, and Rock Springs
Run in the State of Florida for study and potential addition to the national
wild and scenic rivers system; H.R. 3568, to designate 51.7 miles of the
Clarion River, located in Pennsylvania, as a component of the National Wild
and Scenic Rivers System; and H.R. 3405, Sudbury, Assabet and Concord Wild and
Scenic Rivers Act. Testimony was heard from Representative Clinger; Denis P.
Galvin, Associate Director, Planning and Development, National Park Service.
Department of the Interior; Gray Reynolds, Deputy Chief, Forest Service, USDA;
and public witnesses. 

LABOR, HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 2 hours of
debate on H.R. 3755, making appropriations for the Departments of Labor,
Health and Human Services, and Education for the D712fiscal year ending
September 30, 1997. The rule waives clause 2(l)(6) of rule XI (3 day
availability of committee reports), clause 7 of rule XXI (3 day availability
of printed hearings), or section 302 of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974
(prohibiting consideration of legislation which exceeds a committee's
allocation of new entitlement authority), or section 308 of the Congressional
Budget Act of 1974 (requiring a cost estimate in committee report on new
entitlement authority) against consideration of the bill. The rule waives
clause 2 of rule XXI (prohibiting unauthorized appropriations and legislation
on general appropriations bills) and clause 6 of rule XXI (prohibiting
reappropriations) against provisions in the bill. 

                                          [Page: D712]

The rule provides for priority in recognition for those amendments that are
pre-printed in the Congressional Record. The rule allows the Chairman of the
Committee of the Whole to postpone votes during consideration of the bill, and
to reduce voting time to 5 minutes on a postponed question if the vote follows
a 15 minute vote. The rule provides that a motion to rise and report the bill
to the House with such amendments as may have been adopted shall have
precedence over a motion to amend, if offered by the Majority Leader or a
designee after the reading of the final lines of the bill. Finally, the rule
provides one motion to recommit, with or without instructions. Testimony was
heard from Representatives Porter, Campbell, and Obey. 

LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a modified closed rule providing 1
hour of debate on H.R. 3754, making appropriations for the Legislative Branch
for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1997. The rule waives clause 2(l)(6)
of rule XI (3 day availability of reports), clause 7 of rule XXI (3 days
availability of printed hearings), or section 302 of the Congressional Budget
Act of 1974 (prohibiting consideration of legislation which exceeds a
committee's allocation of new entitlement authority) or section 308 of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974 (requiring a cost estimate in committee
report on new entitlement authority) against consideration of the bill. The
rule waives clause 2 of rule XXI (prohibiting unauthorized appropriations and
legislation on general appropriations bills) and clause 6 of rule XXI
(prohibiting reappropriations) against the bill. 

The rule makes in order only the amendments printed in the report on the rule,
to be offered only in the order printed, by the Member specified, and
debatable for the time specified in the report. The amendments are considered
as read and are not subject to amendments except as specified in the report or
a demand for a division of the question in the House or in the Committee of
the Whole. All points of order are waived against the amendments. The rule
provides that the Chairman of the Committee of the Whole may postpone records
votes on any amendment and that the chairman may reduce voting time on
postponed questions to 5 minutes, provided that the vote immediately follows
another recorded vote and that the voting time on the first in a series of
votes is not less than 15 minutes. Finally, the rule provides one motion to
recommit, with or without instructions. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Packard, Campbell, Smith of Michigan, Gutknecht, Souder,
Fazio, and Thornton. 

NATIONAL RECONNAISSANCE PROGRAM

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on National Reconnaissance Program. Testimony was heard from
departmental witnesses. 



1996/07/10
Daily Digest - Wednesday, July 10, 1996;  pages D715 - D722

Committee Meetings

ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development
approved for full Committee action the Energy and Water Development
appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

ONLINE BANKING

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Capital Markets,
Securities and Government Sponsored Enterprises held a hearing on Online
Banking and Technology in Banking. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

Hearings continue tomorrow. 

INSPECTOR GENERAL'S REPORT--STUDENT AID PROGRAMS

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on Oversight
and Investigations held a hearing on "Split Decision: The Inspector General's
Report on the Divided Management Structure of Student Aid Programs at the
Department of Education." Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the Department of Education: Madeleine Kunin, Deputy Secretary; and Thomas R.
Bloom, Chief Financial Officer and Assistant Secretary, Administration; and
Robert E. Alexander, Chairperson, Advisory Committee on Student Financial
Assistance. 

POSTAL REFORM ACT

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on the Postal
Service held a hearing on H.R. 3717, Postal Reform Act of 1996. Testimony was
heard from Marvin T. Runyon, Postmaster General and CEO, U.S. Postal Service;
and Edward J. Gleiman, Chairman, Postal Rate Commission; and public witnesses. 

CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM ACT

Committee on House Oversight: Ordered reported H.R. 3760, Campaign Finance
Reform Act of 1996. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on International Relations: Ordered reported the following measures:
H.R. 3564, amended, NATO Enlargement Facilitation Act of 1996; H.R. 3759,
amended, Exports, Jobs, and Growth Act of 1996; H. Con. Res. 142, amended,
regarding the human rights situation in Mauritania, including the continued
practice of chattel slavery; H. Con. Res. 155, amended, concerning human and
political rights and in support of a resolution of the crisis in Kosova; and
H. Con. Res. 191, to recognize and honor the Filipino World War II veterans
for their defense of democratic ideals and their important contribution to the
outcome of World War II. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime approved for full Committee
action the following bills: H.R. 1499, amended, Consumer Fraud Prevention Act
of 1995; S. 1507, amended, Parole Commission Phaseout Act of 1995; H.R. 3676,
amended, Carjacking Corrections Act of 1996; and H.R. 3723, Economic Espionage
Act of 1996. 

DEFENSE OF MARRIAGE ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a modified closed rule providing 1
hour of debate on H.R. 3396, Defense of Marriage Act. The rule waives clause
2(l)(6) of rule XI (3 day availability requirement for committee reports)
against consideration of the bill. 

The rule makes in order only those amendments printed in the report
accompanying the rule, to be offered only in the order printed, by the Member
specified, and debatable for the time specified in the report. The amendments
are considered as read and are not subject to amendment or subject to a demand
for a division of the question. All points of order are waived against the
amendments. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit, with or without
instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman Hyde and Representatives
Canady, Johnson of Connecticut, Hobson, Frank of Massachusetts and Schroeder. 

CIVILIAN SCIENCE AGENCIES' IMPLEMENTATION OF GOVERNMENT PERFORMANCE AND
RESULTS ACT

Committee on Science: Held a hearing on Civilian Science Agencies'
Implementation of the Government Performance and Results Act. Testimony was
heard from Ernest Moniz, Associate Director, Science, Office of Science and
Technology Policy; Anne Petersen, Deputy Director, NSF; Marc Chupka, Acting
Assistant Secretary, Policy and International Affairs, Department of Energy;
the following officials of the Department of Commerce: Robert Hebner, Acting
Deputy Director, National Institute of Standards and Technology; and Diana
Josephson, Deputy Under Secretary, NOAA; Henry Longest II, Deputy Assistant
Administrator, Management, EPA; Gary Steinberg, Director, Strategic
Management, NASA; and public witnesses.  

                                          [Page: D720]

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Small Business: Began mark up of the following bills: H.R. 3719,
Small Business Programs Improvement Act of 1996; and H.R. 3720, Small Business
Investment Company Reform Act of 1996. 

Committee recessed subject to call. 

MASSACHUSETTS' REQUEST FOR DISASTER ASSISTANCE FROM SBA

Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Government Programs held an
oversight hearing on the Massachusetts request for Disaster Assistance from
the SBA. Testimony was heard from Bernard Kulik, Associate Administrator,
Disaster Assistance, SBA; the following officials of the State of
Massachusetts: Bruce Tarr, Senator; Bruce Tobey, Mayor, Gloucester; and Trudy
Coxe, Environmental Affairs Secretary, Executive Office of Environmental
Affairs; and public witnesses.  

AVIATION SAFETY PROTECTION ACT

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing on H.R. 3187, Aviation Safety Protection Act of 1996. Testimony was
heard from public witnesses. 

RAILS TO TRAILS ACT

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Railroads held
a hearing on Agency Oversight: Administration of the Rails to Trails Act.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
Transportation: Dan King, Director, Office of Public Services, Surface
Transportation Board; and Anthony R. Kane, Executive Director, Federal Highway
Administration. 



1996/07/11
Daily Digest - Thursday, July 11, 1996;  pages D724 - D732

Committee Meetings

DAIRY AND LIVESTOCK PRODUCER PROTECTION ACT OF 1996

Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry held a
hearing to review the Dairy and Livestock Producer Protection Act of 1996.
Testimony was heard from Senator Pressler; the following officials of the
USDA: James Baker, Administrator, Grain Inspector and Packers and Stockyards
Administration; and Lon Hatamiya, Administrator, Agricultural Marketing
Service, and public witnesses. 

COMMERCE, JUSTICE, AND STATE, AND JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS; BUDGET ALLOCATIONS

Committee on Appropriations; Ordered reported the Commerce, Justice, State,
and Judiciary appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

The Committee also approved 602 (b) Budget allocation for fiscal year 1997. 

ONLINE BANKING

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Capital Markets,
Securities and Government Sponsored Enterprises concluded hearings on Online
Banking and Technology in Banking. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

EVOLUTION OF THE BUDGET PROCESS

Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on "How Did We Get Here From There?" A
discussion of the Evolution of the Budget Process from 1974 to the Present.
Testimony was heard from James Blum, Deputy Director, CBO; and Susan Irving,
Associate Director, Budget Issues, GAO. 

Hearings continue July 17. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Hazardous
Materials held a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 3553, Federal Trade
Commission Reauthorization Act of 1996; and H.R. 447, to establish a toll free
number in the Department of Commerce to assist consumers in determining if
products are American-made. Testimony was heard from Representative Traficant;
and the following officials of the FTC: Robert Pitofsky, Chairman; Mary L.
Azcuenaga, Roscoe B. Starek III, Janet T. Steiger and Christine A. Varney, all
Commissioners. 

FOOD QUALITY PROTECTION ACT

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Health and Environment began markup of
H.R. 1627, Food Quality Protection Act of 1995. 

OVERSIGHT--LABOR UNION RACKETEERING 

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Human Resources
and Intergovernmental Relations held an oversight hearing on the Department of
Labor's Efforts Against Labor Union Racketeering. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Labor: Charles C. Masten, Inspector
General; Stephen Cossu, Deputy Assistant Inspector General, Labor
Racketeering; J. Davitt McAteer, Acting Solicitor of Labor; John Kotch,
Director, Office of the Labor-Management Standards; and Alan Lebowitz, Deputy
Assistant Secretary, Program Operations, Pension and Welfare Benefits
Administration; and John Keeney, Acting Assistant Attorney General, Criminal
Division, Department of Justice. 

CUBAN LIBERTY AND DEMOCRATIC SOLIDARITY ACT IMPLEMENTATION

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere
held a hearing on the Implementation of the Cuban Liberty and Democratic
Solidarity (Libertad) Act of 1996 Testimony was heard from Representatives
Diaz-Balart and Deutsch; and Michael Ranneberger, Coordinator for Cuban
Affairs, Department of State. 

                                          [Page: D730]

VICTIMS RIGHTS

Committee on the Judiciary: Held a hearing on proposals for a constitutional
amendment to provide rights to victims of crime (H.J. Res. 173 and H.J. Res.
174). Testimony was heard from Senators Kyl and Feinstein; Representative
Royce; John Schmidt, Associate Attorney General, Department of Justice; and
public witnesses. 

INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY ACT

Committee on National Security: Held a hearing on H.R. 3237, Intelligence
Community Act. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Defense: John White, Deputy Secretary; Lt. Gen. Paul Van Riper,
USMC, Commanding General, Combat Development Command, Quantico, U.S. Marine
Corps; Maj. Gen. Ed Anderson, USA, Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations
and Plans, U.S. Army; Maj. Gen. Boddy O. Floyd, USAF, Director, Forces, Office
of the Deputy Chief of Staff, Plans and Operations, U.S. Air Force; and RAdm.
John M. Luecke, USN, Assistant Deputy Chief of Naval Operations (Plans, Policy
and Operations), U.S. Navy. 

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT TIMBER CONTRACT EXTENSION ACT

Committee on Resources: and the Subcommittee on Resource Conservation,
Research, and Forestry of the Committee on Agriculture held a joint hearing on
H.R. 3659, Environmental Improvement Timber Contract Extension Act of 1996.
Testimony was heard from James R. Lyons, Under Secretary, Natural Resources
and the Environment, USDA; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans held a
hearing on H.R. 3579, to direct the Secretary of the Interior to convey
certain property containing a fish and wildlife facility to the State of
Wyoming; followed by an oversight hearing on non-indigenous species. Testimony
was heard from Representative Cubin; Gary Edwards, Assistant Director,
Fisheries, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior; Sally
Yozell, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Oceans and Atmosphere, NOAA, Department of
Commerce; Hachiro Shimanuki, Research Leader, Plant Sciences Institute, Bee
Research Laboratory, USDA; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Water and Power approved for full
Committee action the following measures: H.R. 2392, amended, to amend the
Umatilla Basin Project Act to establish boundaries for irrigation districts
within the Umatilla Basin; S. 1467, amended, Fort Peck Rural County Water
System Act of 1995; H.R. 3258, amended, to direct the Secretary of the
Interior to convey certain real property located within the Carlsbad Project
in New Mexico to Carlsbad Irrigation District; and a measure to direct the
Secretary of the Interior to sell the Sly Park Dam and Reservoir. 

TREASURY, POSTAL SERVICE, AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
debate on H.R. 3756, making appropriations for the Treasury Department, the
United States Postal Service; the Executive Office of the President and
certain Independent Agencies, for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1997.
The rule waives sections 302(f) (prohibiting consideration of legislation
providing new entitlement authority in excess of a committee's allocation) and
308(a) (requiring a CBO cost estimate in the committee report on legislation
providing new entitlement authority which becomes effective during the fiscal
year which ends in the calendar year in which the bill is reported), of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974 against consideration of the bill. 


The rule provides for the adoption in the House and in the Committee of the
Whole of the amendment printed in part 1 of the Rules Committee report
relating to certain expedited procedures under the rules Committee's
jurisdiction. The rule waives clause 2 of rule XXI (prohibiting unauthorized
appropriations and legislation on general appropriations) and clause 6 of rule
XXI (prohibiting reappropriations) against provisions of the bill, except as
otherwise noted in the rule. 

The rule provides for consideration, before any other amendment, of those
amendments printed in part 2 of the Rules Committee report, which shall be
considered in the order printed, shall be offered by a Member designated in
the report, shall be considered as read, shall be debatable for the time
specified in the report equally divided and controlled by the proponent and an
opponent, shall not be subject to amendment, and shall not be subject to a
demand for a division of the question in the House or in the Committee of the
Whole. 

The rule provides for priority in recognition for those amendments that are
pre-printed in the Congressional Record. The rule allows the Chairman of the
Committee of the Whole to postpone votes during consideration of the bill, and
to reduce voting time to five minutes on a postponed question if the vote
follows a fifteen minute vote. The rule provides that a motion to rise and
report the bill to the House with such amendments as may have been D731adopted
shall have precedence over a motion to amend, if offered by the Majority
Leader or a designee after the reading of the final lines of the bill.
Finally, the rule provides for one motion to recommit, with or without
instructions. Testimony was heard from Representatives Lightfoot, Gutknecht,
Metcalf, Tiahrt, Deal of Georgia, Hoyer and Luther. 

                                          [Page: D731]

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 

ISTEA REAUTHORIZATION

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Surface
Transportation continued hearings on ISTEA Reauthorization Maintaining
Adequate Infrastructure: Federal Funding Distribution Formulas Testimony was
heard from Representatives DeLay, Condit, Sanford, Brewster, Largent,
Hutchinson, Mica, Fowler, Brown of Florida, Buyer, Hamilton, Hostettler,
Ramstad, Inglis of South Carolina and Lewis of Kentucky; John Daly,
Commissioner, Department of Transportation, State of New York; Robert
Martinez, Secretary of Transportation, State of Virginia; Dean Dunphy,
Secretary, Department of Business, Transportation and Housing, State of
California; Wayne Shackelford, Commissioner, Department of Transportation,
State of Georgia; and a public witness. 

Hearings continue July 18. 

UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE ISSUES

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Human Resources held a hearing on
unemployment insurance issues. Testimony was herd from Representatives English
of Pennsylvania, Upton and Farr; Raymond Uhalde, Deputy Assistant Secretary,
Employment and Training Administration, Department of Labor; Loleta A.
Didrickson, Comptroller, State of Illinois; David Poythress, Commissioner of
Labor, State of Georgia; and public witnesses. 



1996/07/12
Daily Digest - Friday, July 12, 1996;  pages D734- D740

Committee Meetings

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on the District of Columbia approved
for full Committee D736action the District of Columbia appropriations for
fiscal year 1997. 

                                          [Page: D736]

GSA LEASING PROGRAM--OVERVIEW

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Public
Buildings and Economic Development held a hearing on Overview of GSA Leasing
Program. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the GSA: Robert
Peck, Commissioner, Public Buildings Service; and William Whyte, Jr.,
Assistant Inspector General, Audits; and a public witness.  

MEDICARE CHOICES AND COMPETITIVE PRICING DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS 

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on the
Administration's Medicare Choices and Competitive Pricing Demonstration
Projects. Testimony was heard from Bruce Vladeck, Administrator, Health Care
Financing Administration, Department of Health and Human Services; and public
witnesses. 



1996/07/16
Daily Digest - Tuesday, July 16, 1996;  pages D742 - D750

Committee Meetings

ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Ordered reported the Energy and Water Development
appropriations for fiscal year 1997. 

FUTURE OF THE PENNY

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Domestic and
International Monetary Policy held a hearing regarding the future of the
Penny. Testimony was heard from J. William Gadsby, Director, Government
Business Operations Issues, GAO. 

OMNIBUS CIVIL SERVICE REFORM

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Civil Service
held a hearing on the Omnibus Civil Service Reform measure. Testimony was
heard from Timothy Bowling, Associate Director, Federal Workforce Management
Issues, GAO: the following officials of OPM: Allan Heuerman, Associate
Director, Human Resources Systems Service; and Carol Okin, Associate Director,
Office of Merit Systems Oversight and Effectiveness; Roger W. Mehle, Executive
Director, Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information and Technology approved for full Committee action the
following bills: H.R. 3452, amended, Presidential and Executive Office
Accountability Act; H.R. 1281, amended, War Crimes Disclosure Act; H.R. 3637,
amended, Travel Reform and Savings Act of 1996; and H.R. 3802, Electronic
Freedom of Information Amendments of 1996. 

The Subcommittee began markup of H.R. 1907, Federal-aid Facility Privatization
Act of 1995. 

Subcommittee recessed subject to call. 

OVERSIGHT--ATTENTION DEFICIT/HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Human Resources
and Intergovernmental Resources held and oversight hearing on current federal
approaches to Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity disorder. Testimony was heard
from Peter Jensen, Chief, Child and Adolescent Disorders Research Branch,
National Institute of Mental Health, Department of Health and Human Services;
Louis Danielson, Division Director, Innovation and Development Division,
Office of Special Education, Department of Education; and public witnesses. 

CHILD LABOR

Committee on International Relations: On July 15, the Subcommittee on
International Operations and Human Rights concluded hearings on Child Labor,
Part II. Testimony was heard from Robert B. Reich, Secretary of Labor; Kathie
Lee Gifford, Television Host; and other public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D747]

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on the Judiciary: Ordered reported the following measures: S. 531,
to authorize a circuit judge who has taken part in an en banc hearing of a
case to continue to participate in that case after taking senior status; H.R.
3215, to amend title 18, United States Code, to repeal the provision relating
to Federal employees contracting or trading with Indians; H.R. 3565, Violent
Youth Predator Act of 1996; H.R. 351, amended, Bilingual Voting Requirements
Repeal Act of 1995; H.R. 3435, Lobbying Disclosure Technical Amendments Act of
1996; H.R. 3680, War Crimes Act of 1996; H.J. Res. 113, granting the consent
of Congress to the compact to provide for joint natural resource management
and enforcement of laws and regulations pertaining to natural resources and
boating at the Jennings Randolph Lake Project lying in Garrett County, MD, and
Mineral County, WV, entered into between the States of West Virginia and
Maryland; and H.J. Res. 166, granting the consent of Congress to the mutual
aid agreement between the city of Bristol, VA, and the city of Bristol, TN. 

The Committee began markup of H.R. 3565, Violent Youth Predator Act of 1996. 

Will continue tomorrow. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands held
a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 3297, to provide for improved access to
and use of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness; H.R. 3298, Voyageurs
National Park Intergovernmental Council Act of 1996; and H.R. 3470, Minnesota
National Treasures Conservation and Protection Act. Testimony was heard from
Senator Grams; Representatives Oberstar, Ramstad and Minge; George T.
Frampton, Jr., Assistant Secretary, Fish and Wildlife and Parks; Department of
the Interior; Gray Reynolds, Deputy Chief, Forest Service, USDA; and public
witnesses. 

COMMERCE--JUSTICE--STATE APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
debate on H.R. 3814, making appropriations for the Department of Commerce,
Justice, and State, the Judiciary, and related agencies for the fiscal year
ending September 30, 1997. The rule waives points of order against
consideration of the bill for failure to comply with clause 2(l)(6) of rule XI
(three day availability of the report), and clause 7 of rule XXI (the
three-day requirement for availability of printed hearings and reports on
appropriations bills). 

The rule provides for the consideration of the amendment printed in part 2 of
the report of the Committee on Rules, before any other amendment, if offered
by Mr. Rogers of Kentucky or his designee, which shall be considered as read,
shall be debatable for the time specified in the report equally divided and
controlled by the proponent and an opponent, shall not be subject to
amendment, and shall not be subject to a demand for a division of the question
in the House or in the Committee of the Whole.  

The rule waives points of order against provisions in the bill, except as
otherwise specified in the rule, for failure to comply with clause 2 of rule
XXI (prohibiting unauthorized appropriations and legislation of general
appropriations bills) or clause 6 of rule XXI (prohibiting transfers of
unobligated balances). 

The rule provides priority in recognition to those amendments that are
pre-printed in the Congressional Record. The Chairman of the Committee of the
Whole may postpone votes during consideration of the bill, and reduce to five
minutes the voting time on a postponed question if the vote follows a fifteen
minute vote. The rule provides that a motion to rise and report the bill to
the House with such amendments as may have been adopted shall have precedence
over a motion to amend, if offered by the Majority Leader or a designee after
the reading of the final lines of the bill. Finally, the rule provides one
motion to recommit with or without instructions. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Rogers, Heineman, Mollohan and Deutsch.  

UNFAIR GOVERNMENT COMPETITION WITH SMALL BUSINESS

Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing on Unfair Government Competition
with Small Business. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

AIRLINER CABIN AIR QUALITY ACT

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing on H.R. 969, Airliner Cabin Air Quality Act of 1995. Testimony was
heard from Senator Lautenberg; Frank E. Kruesi, Assistant Secretary,
Transportation Policy, Department of Transportation; and public witnesses. 

IMPACT OF TAX LAW ON LAND USE

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Oversight held a hearing on the
impact of tax law on land use. Testimony was heard from Representatives Shaw,
Houghton, Payne of Virginia, English of Pennsylvania and Zimmer; and public
witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D748]

POLITICIZATION OF INTELLIGENCE COLLECTION--HAITI

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Subcommittee on Human
Intelligence, Analysis, and Counterintelligence met in executive session held
a hearing on Politicization of Intelligence Collection Regarding Haiti.
Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses. 



1996/07/17
Daily Digest - Wednesday, July 17, 1996;  pages D751 - D762

Committee Meetings

AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION PROGRAMS

Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Resource Conservation, Research, and
Forestry held a hearing to review agricultural extension programs administered
by the USDA. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the USDA:
Catherine Woteki, Acting Under Secretary, Research, Education and Extension;
and the Bob Robinson, Administrator, Cooperative State Research, Education and
Extension Service; and public witnesses. 

EVOLUTION OF THE BUDGET PROCESS

Committee on the Budget: Continued hearings on "How Did We Get Here From
There?" A Discussion of the Evolution of the Budget Process from 1974 to the
Present. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

FOOD QUALITY PROTECTION ACT

Committee on Commerce: Ordered reported amended H.R. 1627, Food Quality
Protection Act. Testimony was heard from witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D759]

FOOD QUALITY PROTECTION ACT

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Health and Environment approved for
full Committee action amended H.R. 1627, Food Quality Protection Act. 

FBI BACKGROUND FILES

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Held a hearing on Security of
FBI Background Files. Testimony was heard from the following Special Agents,
U.S. Secret Service, Department of the Treasury: John Libonati, Supervisory
Special Agent; Jeffrey Undercoffer, Access Control Branch; and Arnold Cole,
Supervisor, Access Control Branch. 

AFRICA'S ENVIRONMENT

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Africa held a hearing on
Africa's Environment: The Final Frontier. Testimony was heard from Gary
Bombardier, Assistant Administrator, AID, U.S. International Development
Cooperation Agency; and public witnesses. 

VIOLENT YOUTH PREDATOR ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Continued mark up of H.R. 3565, Violent Youth
Predator Act of 1996. 

Committee recessed subject to call. 

INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY ACT

Committee on National Security: Ordered reported amended H.R. 3237,
Intelligence Community Act. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 3579,
amended, to direct the Secretary of the Interior to convey certain property
containing a fish and wildlife facility to the State of Wyoming; H.R. 2505,
amended, to amend the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act to make certain
clarifications to the land bank protection provisions; H.R. 3287, amended,
Crawford National Fish Hatchery Conveyance Act; H.R. 3546, amended, Walhalla
National Fish Hatchery Conveyance Act; and H.R. 3557, amended, Marion National
Fish Hatchery Conveyance Act; H.R. 2122, amended, to designate the Lake Tahoe
Basin National Forest in the States of California and Nevada to be
administered by the Secretary of Agriculture; H.R. 2438, amended, to provide
for the conveyance of lands to certain individuals in Gunnison County,
Colorado; H.R. 2518, amended to authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to
exchange certain lands in the Wenatchee National Forest for certain lands
owned by Public Utility District No. 1 of Chelan County, Washington; H.R.
2709, amended, to provide for the conveyance of certain land to the Del Norte
County Unified School District of Del Norte County, California; H.R. 3147,
amended, to provide for the exchange of certain lands in the State of
California managed by the Bureau of Land Management for certain non-federal
lands; H.R. 2135, amended, to provide for the correction of boundaries of
certain lands in Clark County, Nevada, acquired by persons who purchased such
lands in good faith reliance on existing private land surveys; H.R. 2711, to
provide for the substitution of timber for the canceled Elkhorn Ridge Timber
Sale; H.R. 3534, amended, Mineral King Act of 1996; H.R. 3487, amended,
National Marine Sanctuaries Preservation Act. and H.R. 3537, amended, Federal
Oceanography Coordination Improvement Act of 1996. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Resources: Subcommitee on Native American and Insular Affairs
held a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 2710, Hoopa Valley Reservation
South Boundary Correction Act; and H.R. 3671, United Houma Nation Recognition
and Land Claims Settlement Act of 1996. Testimony was heard from
Representative Riggs; Michael Anderson, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Indian
Affairs, Department of the Interior; Jack Ward Thomas, Chief, Forest Service,
USDA; and public witnesses. 

CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a modified closed rule on H.R.
3760, Campaign Finance Reform Act of 1996 providing one hour of general debate
equally divided and controlled between the chairman and ranking minority
member of the Committee on House Oversight. The rule provides that no
amendment will be in order except an amendment in the nature of a substitute
consisting of the text of H.R. 3505 (as modified by an amendment printed in
the report of the Committee on Rules), if offered by the Minority Leader or
his designee. The rule waives all points of order against the amendment in the
nature of a substitute, as modified, and provides that it will be considered
as read, will be debatable for one hour equally divided between the proponent
and an opponent, and will not be subject to amendment. Finally, the rule
provides one motion to recommit with or without instructions. Testimony was
heard from Chairman Thomas and Representatives Fawell, Shays, Greenwood, Horn,
Castle, Smith of Washington, Wamp, Fazio, Clay, Obey, Martinez, Farr, Maloney,
and Meehan. 

WELFARE AND MEDICAID REFORM ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a modified closed rule providing
two hours of additional general debate equally divided and controlled between
the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on the Budget. The
rule waives all points of order against consideration of the bill. The
D760rule provides for the adoption in the House and in the Committee of the
Whole of an amendment in the nature of a substitute consisting of the text of
H.R. 3829 (as modified by the amendment printed in the report of the Committee
on Rules) and that the bill, as amended, be considered as original text for
the purpose of further amendment. 

                                          [Page: D760]

The rule provides for the consideration of an amendment printed in part 2 of
the report of the Committee on Rules if offered by the Chairman of the
Committee on the Budget, or his designee, which shall be debatable for the
time specified in the report equally divided and controlled by a proponent and
an opponent, which shall not be subject to further amendment or to a demand
for a division of the question and against which all points of order are
waived. The rule provides for the consideration of a further amendment if
offered by the Minority Leader or his designee, consisting of the text of H.R.
3832, debatable for one hour equally divided and controlled by a proponent and
an opponent, which shall not be subject to amendment and against which all
points of order are waived. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit,
with or without instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman Kasich,
Representatives Shaw, Roukema, Castle, Stenholm, Richardson, and Tanner. 

CONGRESSIONAL REFORM PROPOSALS

Committee on Rules: Held a hearing to further examine congressional reform
proposals. Testimony was heard from Representatives Rohrabacher, Doolittle,
Pombo, Royce, Coburn, Foley, Schroeder, Volkmer, Skaggs, Barrett of Wisconsin,
Eshoo, Minge, Stupak, Woolsey, Underwood and Rivers. 

EMPLOYMENT NON-DISCRIMINATION ACT

Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Government Programs held a
hearing on H.R. 1863, Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 1995. Testimony was
heard from Representatives Morella, Campbell, Frank of Massachusetts and
Studds; and public witnesses. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 

NATIONAL INVASIVE SPECIES ACT

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Water
Resources and Environment and the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime
Transportation held a joint hearing on H.R. 3217, National Invasive Species
Act of 1996. Testimony was heard from Capt. Richard E. Bennis, USCG, Chief
Office of Response, U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation; Alfred M.
Beeton, Acting Chief Scientist, NOAA, Department of Commerce; David G. Davis,
Deputy Director, Office of Wetlands, Oceans, and Watersheds, EPA; William E.
Roper, Assistant Director, Civil Works Program, Directorate for Research and
Development, U.S. Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army; and public
witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Ways and Means: Ordered reported the following: a conforming
amendment to be incorporated into H.R. 3592, Water Resources Development Act
of 1996; H.R. 2823, International Dolphin Conservation Program Act, as
reported from the Committee on Resources; and H.R. 3815, amended, to make
technical corrections and miscellaneous to trade laws. 



1996/07/18
Daily Digest - Thursday, July 18, 1996;  pages D764 - D772

Committee Meetings

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Appropriations: Ordered reported the District of Columbia
appropriations for fiscal year 1997.  

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Hazardous
Materials approved for full Committee action the following bills: H.R. 3553,
Federal Trade Commission Reauthorization Act of 1996; H.R. 447, amended, to
establish a toll free number in the Department of Commerce to assist consumers
in determining if products are American-made; and H.R. 1186, amended,
Professional Boxing Safety Act. 

OVERSIGHT--TELECOMMUNICATIONS ACT IMPLEMENTATION

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Finance held an
oversight hearing on the implementation of the Telecommunications Act of 1996.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the FCC: Reed E. Hundt,
Chairman; James Quello, Susan Ness and Rachelle B. Chong, all Commissioners. 

                                          [Page: D770]

RISING COST OF COLLEGE

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on
Postsecondary Education, Training and Life-long Learning held a hearing on the
rising cost of college. Testimony was heard from Neal H. Rosenhthyal, Chief,
Division of Occupational Outlook, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Department of
Labor; and public witnesses. 

OMNIBUS CIVIL SERVICE REFORM

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Civil Service
approved for full Committee action amended H.R. 3841, Omnibus Civil Service
Reform Act of 1996. 

POSTAL REFORM ACT

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Postal Service
continued hearings on H.R. 3717, Postal Reform Act of 1996. Testimony was
heard from public witnesses. 

RIGHTS AND BENEFITS OF STATE AND LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime held a hearing on the rights
and benefits of state and local law enforcement officers, with emphasis on the
following bills: H.R. 878, Law Enforcement Officers Bill of Rights; H.R. 218, 
1995 Community Protection Initiative; H.R. 1805, to amend title 18, United
States Code, to exempt qualified current or former law enforcement officers
from State laws prohibiting the carrying of concealed firearms; H.R. 2912,
All-O'Hara Public Safety Officers Health Benefits Act; and H.R. 3263, Law
Enforcement and Correctional Officers Employment Registration Act 1996.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

SURFACE MINING CONTROL AND RECLAMATION AMENDMENTS ACT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources approved
for full Committee action H.R. 2372, Surface Mining Control and Reclamation
Amendments Act of 1995. 

OVERSIGHT--NATIONAL PARK SERVICE CONCESSIONS MANAGEMENT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Lands
held an oversight hearing on National Park Service Concessions Management.
Testimony was heard from Victor S. Rezendes, Director, Energy Resources and
Science Issues, Resources, Community, and Economic Development Division, GAO;
Roger Kennedy, Director, National Park Service, Department of the Interior;
and public witnesses. 

ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT APPROPRIATIONS

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
debate on H.R. 3816, making appropriations for energy and water development
for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1997. The rule waives clause 2 of
rule XXI (prohibiting unauthorized appropriations and legislation on general
appropriations bills) and clause 6 of rule XXI (prohibiting reappropriations)
against provisions in the bill. The rule provides for priority in recognition
to those amendments that have been preprinted in the Congressional Record. The
rule allows the chairman of the Committee of the Whole to postpone votes
during consideration of the bill and to reduce voting time to five minutes on
a postponed question if the vote follows a fifteen minute vote. The rule
provides that a motion to rise and report the bill to the House with such
amendments as may have been adopted shall have precedence over a motion to
amend, if offered by the Majority Leader or a designee after the reading of
the final lines of the bill. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit
with or without instructions. Testimony was heard from Representatives Myers
of Indiana and Bevill. 

NASA'S UNCOSTED CARRY-OVER

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics held a hearing on
NASA's Uncosted Carry-Over. Testimony was heard from Thomas J. Schulz,
Associate Director, National Security, International Affairs Division, GAO;
and Daniel S. Goldin, Administrator, NASA. 

UNFAIR GOVERNMENT COMPETITION WITH SMALL BUSINESS

Committee on Small Business: Continued hearings on Unfair Government-Supported
Competition with Small Business. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAMS IMPROVEMENT ACT

Committee on Small Business: Ordered reported amended H.R. 3719, Small
Business Programs Improvement Act of 1996. 

OVERSIGHT--GSA LEASING PROGRAM

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Public
Buildings and Economic Development continued oversight hearings on GSA Leasing
Program. Testimony was heard from David Barram, Acting Administrator, GSA; J.
William Gadsby, Director, Government Business Operations Issues, General
Government Division, GAO; and a public witness. 

                                          [Page: D771]

ISTEA REAUTHORIZATION

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Surface
Transportation continued hearings on ISTEA Reauthorization Transportation
Finance in an Era of Scarce Resources: Innovating Financing. Testimony was
heard from Representative DeLauro; Mortimer L. Downey, Deputy Secretary,
Department of Transportation; John R. Platt, Chief of Staff, Department of
Transportation, State of Ohio; and public witnesses. 

Hearings continue July 25. 

REPLACING FEDERAL INCOME TAX--IMPACT OF INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIVENESS

Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing on the impact of international
competitiveness of replacing the Federal Income Tax. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses. 

ENCRYPTION POLICY BRIEFING

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: The Committee on International
Relations and the Committee on the Judiciary met in executive session to
receive a joint briefing on Encryption Policy. The Committees were briefed by
departmental officials. 



1996/07/19
Daily Digest - Friday, July 19, 1996;  pages D774 - D780

Committee Meetings

OVERSIGHT--DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA CASH STATUS

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on the District of
Columbia held an oversight hearing on the District of Columbia cash status,
operating deficit, and private financial market access. Testimony was heard
from Anthony Williams, Chief, Financial Officer, District of Columbia; Andrew
Brimmer, Chairman, District of Columbia Financial Responsibility and
Management Assistance Authority; Gregory Holloway, Director, GAO; and public
witnesses.  


1996/07/22
Daily Digest - Monday, July 22, 1996;  pages D781 - D786

Committee Meetings

CIVIL ASSET FORFEITURE REFORM ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Held a hearing on H.R. 1916, Civil Asset
Forfeiture Reform Act. Testimony was heard from Stefan D. Cassella, Deputy
Chief of Asset Forfeiture and Money Laundering Section, Department of Justice;
Jan P. Blanton, Director, Treasury Executive Office for Asset Forfeiture,
Department of the Treasury; and public witnesses. 



1996/07/23
Daily Digest - Tuesday, July 23, 1996;  pages D787 - D796

Committee Meetings

CONDUCT OF MONETARY POLICY

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Domestic and
International Monetary Policy held a hearing on the Conduct of Monetary Policy
(Humphrey-Hawkins). Testimony was heard from Alan Greenspan, Chairman, Board
of Governors, Federal Reserve System. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Information, and Technology approved for full Committee action the
Electronic Reporting and Streamlining Act. 

The Subcommittee also began markup of H.R. 1907, Federal-aid Facility
Privatization Act of 1995. 

Subcommittee recessed subject to call. 

DRAFT REPORT

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Subcommittee on National
Security, International Affairs, and Criminal Justice, approved for full
Committee action a draft report entitled: "The Investigation into the
Activities of Federal Law Enforcement Agencies Toward the Branch Davidians". 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURE

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific
approved for full Committee action amended H. Con. Res. 189, expressing the
sense of the Congress regarding the importance of the United States membership
in regional South Pacific organizations. 

U.S. FOREIGN ASSISTANCE IN ASIA

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on Asia held a hearing on
U.S. foreign assistance in Asia. Testimony was heard from Margaret Carpenter,
Assistant Administrator, Asia and the Near East, AID, U.S. International
Development Cooperation Agency; and public witnesses. 

HUMAN RIGHTS UNDER PALESTINIAN AUTHORITY

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Operations
and Human Rights held a hearing on Human Rights Under the Palestinian
Authority. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 

PROTECT RELIGIOUS FREEDOM

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution held a hearing on
legislation to further protect religious freedom. Testimony was heard from
Representative Istook; and public witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Courts and Intellectual Property
approved for full Committee action the following: Federal Courts Improvement
Act; S. 533, to clarify the rules governing removal of cases to Federal court;
and S. 677, to repeal a redundant venue provision. 

                                          [Page: D794]

LAND CONVEYANCES

Committee on Resources: Held a hearing on H.R. 3061, to resolve certain
conveyances under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act related to Cape Fox
Corporation. Testimony was heard from Gray F. Reynolds, Deputy Chief, National
Forest System, USDA; and public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Lands held
an oversight hearing on the Forest Service's implementation of the
Administration's Forest Plan. Testimony was heard from Representatives Herger
and Riggs; James Lyons, Under Secretary, Natural Resources and Environment,
USDA; Nancy Hayes, Chief of Staff and Counselor to the Acting Director, Bureau
of Land Management, Department of the Interior; and public witnesses.  

EFFECTS OF A SIX-YEAR BUDGET ON CIVILIAN R&D

Committee on Science: Held a hearing on the Effects of a Six-Year Balanced
Budget on Civilian Research and Development. Testimony was heard from James L.
Blum, Deputy Director, CBO; and a public witness. 
 
Hearings continue tomorrow. 

ANTARCTIC RESEARCH

Committee on Science: Subcommittee on Basic Research held a hearing on the
Future of Antarctic Research. Testimony was heard from Ernest Moniz, Assistant
Director, Science, Office of Science and Technology Policy; Cornelius
Sullivan, Director, Office of Polar Programs, NSF; R. Tucker Scully, Director,
Office of Ocean Affairs, Department of State; Robin Pirie, Assistant
Secretary, Navy, Infrastructure and the Environment, Department of Defense;
and public witnesses. 

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Committee on Standards of Official Conduct: Met in executive session to
consider pending business. 

MEDICARE PAYMENT POLICIES

Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on Issues
Related to Medicare Payment Policies for Home Health Agency and Skilled
Nursing Facility Services. Testimony was heard from Bruce C. Vladeck,
Administrator, Health Care Financing Administration, Department of Health and
Human Services; from the following officials of the Prospective Payment
Assessment Commission: Joseph P. Newhouse, Chairman; and Don Young, M.D.,
Executive Director; and public witnesses. 

GUATEMALA

Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Guatemala. Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses. 



1996/07/24
Daily Digest - Wednesday, July 24, 1996;  pages D797 - D808

Committee Meetings 

HEDGE-TO-ARRIVE CONTRACTS 

Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Risk Management and Specialty Crops
and the Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities held a joint hearing to
review cash market forward contracts between producers and merchants, commonly
known as hedge-to-arrive contracts. Testimony was heard from John Tull, Acting
Chairman, Commodity Futures Trading Commission; and public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT--FANNIE MAE AND FREDDIE MAC 

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Subcommittee on Capital Markets,
Securities and Government Sponsored Enterprises held an oversight hearing on
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Testimony was heard from Lawrence H. Summers,
Deputy Secretary, Department of Treasury; Nicholas Retsinas, Assistant
Secretary, Housing, Department of Housing and Urban Development; and public
witnesses. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES 

Committee on Commerce: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 3553,
Federal Trade Commission Reauthorization Act of 1996; H.R. 447, amended, to
establish a toll free number in the Department of Commerce to assist consumers
in determining if products are American-made; H.R. 2579, amended, United
States National Tourism Organization Act of 1996; H.R. 2976, amended, Patient
Right to Know Act of 1996; H.R. 3871, to waive temporarily the Medicaid
enrollment composition rule for certain health maintenance organizations; H.R.
3056, to permit county-operated health insuring organization to qualify as an
organization exempt from certain requirements otherwise applicable to health
insuring organizations under the Medicaid program notwithstanding that the
organization enrolls Medicaid beneficiaries residing in another county; H.R.
3867, Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act Amendments
of 1996; H.R. 3868, to extend certain programs under the Energy Policy and
Conservation Act through September 30, 1996. 

LANGUAGE OF GOVERNMENT ACT 

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Ordered reported amended
H.R. 123, Language of Government Act of 1995. 

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES

Committee on International Relations: Ordered reported the following bills:
H.R. 3846, to amend the Foreign Assistant Act of 1961 to authorize the
provision of assistance for microenterprises; and H.R. 3735, amended, to amend
the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to reauthorize the Development Fund for
Africa under chapter 10 of part I of that Act. 

The Committee also favorably considered and adopted a motion urging the
Chairman to request that the following bill be considered on the Suspension
Calendar: H.R. 3870, to authorize the Agency for International Development to
offer voluntary separation incentive payments to employees of that agency. 

OVERSIGHT--U.S. TRUSTEE PROGRAM

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
held an oversight hearing on the U.S. Trustee Program. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Executive Office, U.S. Trustees,
Department of Justice; Joseph Patchan, Director; M. Scott Michel, and Clarkson
Dow, both Regional Trustees; and public witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT--COMMISSION ON CIVIL RIGHTS

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution held an oversight
hearing on the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights: Mary Frances
Berry, Chairperson; Robert George, Carl A. Anderson and Russell Redenbaugh,
all Commissioners and Mary Mathews, Staff Director; and a public witness. 

LABORER'S INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime held a hearing on the
Administration's efforts against the influence of organized crime in the
Laborer's International Union of North America. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses. 
 
Hearings continue tomorrow. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on Resources: Held an oversight hearing on implementation of the
Endangered Species Act with regard to Section 10(a) permits (Habit
Conservation Plan) and other incentives. Testimony was heard from
Representative Smith of Texas; George T. Frampton, Assistant Secretary, Fish
and Wildlife and Parks, Department of the Interior; and public witnesses. 

                                          [Page: D806]

OVERSIGHT--TERRITORIAL TECHNICAL MATTERS; OMNIBUS TERRITORIES ACT

Committee on Resources: Subcommittee on Native American and Insular Affairs
held an oversight hearing on territorial technical matters, with discussion of
H.R. 3721, Omnibus Territories Act. Testimony was heard from Allen Stayman,
Director, Insular Affairs, Department of the Interior; and the following
officials from Guam: Madeline Bordallo, Lt. Governor; Elizabeth
Barrett-Anderson, and Hope Cristobal, both Senators. 

WORKING FAMILIES FLEXIBILITY ACT

Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a modified open rule providing one
hour general debate on H.R. 2391, Working Families Flexibility Act. The rule
makes in order the Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities
amendment in the nature of a substitute as an original bill for the purpose of
amendment, with each section as read. The rule waives clause 7 of rule XVI
(germaneness) against the committee amendment in the nature of a substitute. 

The rule provides for the consideration of the manager's amendment printed in
the report of the Committee on Rules, which is considered as read, not subject
to amendment or to a division of the question. The amendment is debatable for
10 minutes equally divided between the proponent and an opponent. The
amendment may amend portions of the bill not yet read. If adopted, the
amendment is considered as part of the base text for further amendment
purposes. 

The rule provides for consideration of only those amendments that are
pre-printed in the Congressional Record. The rule provides for a 2 hour limit
on the amendment process. The Chairman of the Committee of the Whole may
postpone votes during consideration of the bill, and reduce voting time to
five minutes on a postponed question if the vote follows a fifteen minute
vote. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit, with or without
instructions. Testimony was heard from Representatives Ballenger and Clay. 

BUILDING ON CHANGE: PREPARING FOR THE 105TH CONGRESS

Committee on Rules: Subcommittee on Rules and Organization of the House and
the Subcommittee on Legislative and Budget Process held a joint hearing on
Building on Change: Preparing for the 105th Congress. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Bass, White, Farr, Hamilton and Cardin; and public witnesses. 

EFFECTS OF A SIX-YEAR BUDGET ON CIVILIAN R&D

Committee on Science: Concluded hearings on the Effects of a Six-Year Balanced
Budget on Civilian Research and Development, Part II. Testimony was heard from
Senator Bond; Martha Krebs, Director, Office of Energy Research, Department of
Energy; Neal Lane, Director, NSF; and Daniel Goldin, Administrator, NASA. 

PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT--FDA'S COMPLIANCE

Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Government Programs held a
hearing on the FDA's compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.
Testimony was heard from Robert Byrd, Acting Deputy Commissioner, Systems and
Management, FDA, Department of Health and Human Services; and public
witnesses. 



1996/07/25
Daily Digest - Thursday, July 25, 1996;  pages D809 - D818

Committee Meetings

PROCESSOR-FUNDED MILK PROMOTION PROGRAM

Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry held
an oversight hearing on the processor-funded milk promotion program (MilkPEP)
established by the Fluid Milk Promotion Act of 1990. Testimony was heard from
Richard M. McKee, Director, Dairy Division, Agricultural Marketing Service,
USDA; and public witnesses. 

BUDGET RECONCILIATION

Committee on Banking and Financial Services: Began consideration of the
following reconciliation recommendations to be transmitted to the Committee on
the Budget for inclusion in the Budget Reconciliation Act: Title III, Subtitle
A--Deposit Insurance Funds; Subtitle B--Thrift Charter Conversion. 

Committee recessed subject to call. 

CONSUMER PRODUCTS--ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Committee on Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Power held a hearing on
Federal Energy Efficiency Standards for Consumer Products. Testimony was heard
from Representative Gillmor; the following officials of the Department of
Energy: Christine A. Ervin, Assistant Secretary, Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy; and Michael McCabe, Director, Office of Codes and Standards;
and public witnesses. 

JUVENILE JUSTICE AND DELINQUENCY PREVENTION ACT AMENDMENTS

Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities: Subcommittee on Early
Childhood, Youth and Families approved for full Committee action amended H.R.
3876, Juvenile Crime Control and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1996. 

                                          [Page: D815]

MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; DRAFT REPORTS

Committee on Government Reform and Oversight: Ordered reported the following
bills: H.R. 3841, amended, Omnibus Civil Service Reform Act of 1996; H.R.
3864, amended, GAO Management Reform Act; H.R. 3452, amended, Presidential and
Executive Office Accountability Act; H.R. 3637, Travel Reform and Savings Act
of 1996; H.R. 3802, amended, Electronic Freedom of Information Act; H.R. 3869,
amended, Electronic Reporting and Streamlining Act; H.R. 1281, War Crimes
Disclosure Act; H.R. 3625, National Historical Publications and Records
Commission Reauthorization Act; H.R. 3768, to designate a United States Post
Office to be located in Groton, MA, as the "Augusta `Gusty' Hornblower United
States Post Office"; and H.R. 3834, to designate the Dunning Post Office in
Chicago, IL, as the "Roger P. McAuliffe Post Office". 

The Committee also approved the following draft reports: "Protecting the
Nation's Blood Supply from Infectious Agents: The Need for New Standards to
Meet New Threats"; "Health Care Fraud: All Public and Private Payers Need
Federal Criminal Anti-Fraud Protections"; "Investigation into the Activities
of Federal Law Enforcement Agencies Toward the Branch Davidians"; and "Two
Year Review of the White House Communications Agency Reveals Major
Mismanagement, Lack of Accountability and Mission Creep". 

SYRIA AND SUPPORT FOR INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

Committee on International Relations: Held a hearing on Syria: Peace Partner
or Rogue Regime? Testimony was heard from Philip Wilcox, Coordinator for
Counterterrorism, Department of State; and public witnesses. 

ALBANIA--HUMAN RIGHTS AND DEMOCRACY

Committee on International Relations: Subcommittee on International Operations
and Human Rights held a hearing on Human Rights and Democracy in Albania.
Testimony was heard from Rudolf V. Perina, Senior Deputy Assistant Secretary,
Bureau of European and Canadian Affairs, Department of State; and public
witnesses. 

OVERSIGHT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
held an oversight hearing to review whether Congress should adopt legislation
that would exempt from local taxation wireless service providers who transmit
satellite-delivered video programming. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses. 

CIVIL RIGHTS COMMISSION ACT

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution approved for full
Committee action H.R. 3874, Civil Rights Commission Act of 1996. 

LABORER'S INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA 

Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime concluded hearings on the
Administration's efforts against the influence of organized crime in the
Laborer's International Union of North America. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Justice: James Burns, U.S. Attorney,
Northern District, Illinois; John C. Keeney, Deputy Assistant Attorney
General, Criminal Division; Paul E. Coffey, Organized Crime and Racketee