110th Congress (2007 - 2008)
January 4 - December 31, 2007
House Committee Meetings by Date
Compiled from the Congressional Record's Daily Digests via Thomas at
thomas.loc.gov
2007/01/04
Daily Digest - Thursday, January 4, 2007; pages D1 - D10
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
2007/01/05
Daily Digest - Friday, January 5, 2007; pages D12 - D14
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
2007/01/08
Daily Digest - Monday, January 8, 2007; pages D15 - D16
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
2007/01/09
Daily Digest - Tuesday, January 9, 2007; pages D18 - D24
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
2007/01/10
Daily Digest - Wednesday, January 10, 2007; pages D25 - D30
Committee Meetings
COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION; OVERSIGHT PLAN
Committee on Armed Services: Met for organizational purposes.
The Committee approved an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress.
COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Met for organizational purposes.
2007/01/11
Daily Digest - Thursday, January 11, 2007; pages D32 - D36
Committee Meetings
IRAQ--THE WAY FORWARD
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on the way forward in Iraq.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense:
Robert M. Gates, Secretary; and GEN Peter Pace, USMC, Chairman, Joint Chiefs
of Staff.
[Page: D35]
BRIEFING IRAN CRISIS--NEXT STEPS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a briefing on the Next Steps in the Iran
Crisis. The Committee was briefed by Thomas R. Pickering, former Under
Secretary, Political Affairs, Department of State; and R. James Woolsey, Jr.,
former Director, CIA.
IRAQ BRIEFING
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a briefing on Iraq. The Committee was
briefed by Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of State.
2007/01/12
Daily Digest - Friday, January 12, 2007; pages D37 - D42
Committee Meetings
COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION
Committee on Rules: Met for organizational purposes.
2007/01/16
Daily Digest - Tuesday, January 16, 2007; pages D44 - D50
Committee Meetings
COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION; OVERSIGHT PLAN
Committee on Appropriations: Met for organizational purposes.
The Committee approved an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress.
IRAQ/AFGHANISTAN--U.S. FORCE PROTECTION
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Seapower and Expeditionary Forces
held a hearing on Marine Corps force protection equipment for Operation Iraqi
Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the U.S. Marine Corps: BG Randolph D. Alles, USMC, Commanding
General, Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory; and BG Michael M. Brogan, USMC,
Commanding General, Marine Corps Systems Command.
[Page: D48]
THE COLLEGE STUDENT RELIEF ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 8 to 4, a closed rule providing 3
hours of general debate on H.R. 5, to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965
to reduce interest rates for student borrowers, in the House equally divided
and controlled by the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on
Education and Labor. The rule waives all points of order against the bill and
against its consideration except for clause 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The rule
provides one motion to recommit with or without instructions. Finally, the
rule provides that the Chair may postpone further consideration of the bill to
a time designated by the Speaker. Testimony was heard from Chairman Miller of
California and Representatives McKeon and Keller.
CREATING LONG-TERM ENERGY ALTERNATIVES FOR THE NATION (CLEAN) ACT
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 8 to 4, a closed rule providing 3
hours of general debate on H.R. 6, to reduce our Nation's dependency on
foreign oil by investing in clean, renewable, and alternative energy
resources, promoting new emerging energy technologies, developing greater
efficiency, and creating a Strategic Energy Efficiency and Renewables Reserve
to invest in alternative energy, and for other purposes, in the House with 60
minutes equally divided and controlled by the chairman and ranking minority
member of the Committee on Ways and Means, 60 minutes equally divided and
controlled by the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on
Natural Resources, 30 minutes equally divided and controlled by the chairman
and ranking minority member of the Committee on Agriculture, and 30 minutes
equally divided and controlled by the chairman and ranking minority member of
the Committee on Science and Technology. The rule waives all points of order
against the bill and against its consideration except for clause 9 and 10 or
Rule XXI. The rule provides one motion to recommit with or without
instructions. The rule also provides that during consideration of H.R. 6
pursuant to this resolution, notwithstanding the operation of the previous
question, the Chair may postpone further consideration of the bill to a time
designated by the Speaker. Testimony was heard from Chairman Rahall and
Representatives Nunes, Bartlett of Maryland and Biggert.
2007/01/17
Daily Digest - Wednesday, January 17, 2007; pages D52 - D58
Committee Meetings
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense met in executive session
on Army and Marine Corps Readiness. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Defense: GEN Peter J. Schoomaker, USA, Chief of
Staff; and GEN James T. Conway, USMC, Commandant of the Marine Corps.
The Subcommittee also met in executive session on Army and Marine Operations
and Equipment Reconstitution. Testimony was heard from GEN Benjamin Griffin,
USA, Commander, Army Materiel Command; LTG Jim Lovelace, U.S. Army, G3; and
LTG Steve Speakes, USA, G8; LTG Emerson N. Gardner, Jr., USMC, Deputy
Commandant, Programs and Resources; LTG Richard F. Natonski, USMC, Deputy
Commandant, Plans, Policies and Operations; and BG Michael M. Brogan, USMC,
Commander, Marine Corps Systems Command.
ALTERNATIVE IRAQ STRATEGIES
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on alternative perspectives on the
President's strategy for Iraq. Testimony was heard from William J. Perry,
former Secretary of Defense; and public witnesses.
IRAQ OVERSIGHT
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a briefing on Iraq. The Committee was
briefed by Madeleine Albright, former Secretary of State.
COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Met for organizational
purposes.
COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION; OVERSIGHT PLAN
Committee on Ways and Means: Met for organizational purposes.
The Committee approved an Oversight Plan for organizational purposes.
2007/01/18
Daily Digest - Thursday, January 18, 2007; pages D59 - D66
Committee Meetings
NAVY, AIR FORCE, GUARD AND RESERVE READINESS
Committee on Appropriations: Met in executive session on Navy and Air Force
Readiness. Testimony was heard from ADM Michael G. Mullen, USN, Chief of Naval
Operations; and GEN T. Michael Moseley, USAF, Chief of Staff, U.S. Air Force.
The Subcommittee also met in executive session on Guard and Reserve Readiness.
Testimony was heard from LTG H. Steven Blum, USA, Chief of the National Guard
Bureau; LTG Jack C. Stultz, USAR, Chief of Army Reserve; VADM John G. Cotton,
USN, Chief of Navy Reserve; LTG John A. Bradley, USAF, Chief, Air Force
Reserve; and LTG John W. Bergman, USMC, Commander, Marine Forces Reserve.
IRAQ RECONSTRUCTION AUDITS
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on approaches to audit of
reconstruction and support activities in Iraq. Testimony was heard from David
M. Walker, Comptroller General; the following officials of the Department of
Defense: Thomas E. Gimble, Acting Inspector General; and Stuart W. Bowen, Jr.,
Special Inspector General; and Howard J. Krongard, Inspector General,
Department of State.
U.S. FORCE PROTECTION IN IRAQ AND AFGHANISTAN
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Air and Land Forces held a
hearing on Army force protection equipment for Operation Iraqi Freedom and
Operation Enduring Freedom. Testimony was heard from the following officials
of the Department of Defense: LTG Stephen M. Speakes, USA, Deputy Chief of
Staff, Army G-8; MG Jeffrey A. Sorenson, USA, Deputy for Acquisition and
Systems Management, Assistant Secretary of the Army (Acquisition, Logistics
and Technology), all with the Department of the Army; Robert L. Buhrkuhl,
Director, Joint Rapid Acquisition Cell, Office of Under Secretary of Defense
(Acquisition, Technology and Logistics); and CAPT Joseph McGettigan, USN,
Commanding Officer, Naval Surface Warfare Center, Dahlgren Division; Philip
Coyle, former Director, Operational Test and Development, Office of the
Secretary of Defense; and Ray Dubois, Jr., former Acting Under Secretary of
the Army.
BUDGETING FOR WAR COSTS; COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION; CBO DIRECTOR
Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on Budgeting for War Costs. Testimony
was heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense: Gordon
England, Deputy Secretary; ADM Edmund P. Giambastiani, Jr., USN, Vice
Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff; and Tina W. Jonas, Under Secretary
(Comptroller); Robert Sunshine, Assistant Director, CBO; Steve Kosiak,
Director of Budget Studies, Center on Strategic and Budgetary Assessments.
Prior to the hearing, the Committee met for organizational purposes.
The Committee approved the recommendation to appoint Peter Orszag as the
Director of CBO.
OVERSIGHT--NORTH KOREA
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a briefing on North Korea. Testimony was
heard from William J. Perry, former Secretary of Defense; and James Lilley,
former U.S. Ambassador to South Korea.
COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION
Committee on Oversight and Reform: Met for organizational purposes.
U.S. NATIONAL SECURITY--CURRENT AND PROJECTED THREATS
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Held a hearing on Current and
Projected Threats to U.S. National Security. Testimony was heard from John D.
Negroponte, Director of National Intelligence.
[Page: D65]
The Committee also met in executive session on this subject. Testimony was
heard from John D. Negroponte, Director of National Intelligence.
2007/01/19
Daily Digest - Friday, January 19, 2007; pages D67 - D70
Committee Meetings
MILITARY MEDICAL READINESS
Committee on Appropriations: Held a hearing on Military Medical Readiness and
Related Issues. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Defense: William Winkenwerder, Jr., M.D., Assistant Secretary,
Health Affairs; LTG Kevin C. Kiley, M.D., U.S. Army Surgeon General,
Commander, U.S. Army Medical Command; LTG James G. Roudebush, M.D., Surgeon
General, Air Force; and VADM Donald C. Arthur, Medical Corps, U.S. Navy
Surgeon General, Chief, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery; Charles Marmar, M.D.,
Associate Chief of Staff, Mental Health, San Francisco VA Medical Center; and
a public witness.
BAKER-HAMILTON COMMISSION REPORT
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a briefing on the Baker-Hamilton Commission
Report. The Committee was briefed by Lee Hamilton, Co-Chair, Iraq Study Group
(Baker-Hamilton Commission).
CLEAN WATER INFRASTRUCTURE--NEED FOR RENEWED INVESTMENT
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Water
Resources and Environment held a hearing on the Need for Renewed Investment in
Clean Water Infrastructure. Testimony was heard from Benjamin H. Grumbles,
Assistant Administrator, Office of Water, EPA; and public witnesses.
2007/01/22
Daily Digest - Monday, January 22, 2007; pages D71 - D74
Committee Meetings
INTELLIGENCE READINESS
Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Defense met in executive session
on Intelligence Readiness. Testimony was heard from Steven Kappes, Deputy
Director, CIA; and John D. Negroponte, Director of National Intelligence.
SUBCOMMITTEE ORGANIZATION
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health met for organizational
purposes.
2007/01/23
Daily Digest - Tuesday, January 23, 2007; pages D75 - D80
Committee Meetings
COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION
Committee on Agriculture: Met for organizational purposes.
IRAQ'S EFFECT ON TOTAL FORCES READINESS
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on implications of Iraq policy on
total force readiness. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Defense: GEN Peter J. Schoomaker, USA, Chief of Staff, U.S.
Army; GEN James T. Conway, USMC, Commandant, U.S. Marine Corps; 1SG Ciaran T.
Allison, USA, A Co. 2-23 IN, Ft. Lewis, MA; and public witnesses.
WHY DEFICITS MATTER
Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on Why Deficits Matter. Testimony was
heard from David M. Walker, Comptroller General, GAO; and public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION; OVERSIGHT PLAN
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Favorably considered the following resolutions
and adopted a motion urging the Chairman to request that they be considered on
the Suspension Calendar: H. Res. 24, amended, Establishing the House Democracy
Assistance Commission for the One Hundred Tenth Congress; and H. Con. Res. 20,
Calling on the Government of the United Kingdom to immediately establish a
full, independent, and public judicial inquiry into the murder of Northern
Ireland defense attorney Patrick Finucane, as recommended by Judge Peter Cory
as part of the Weston Park Agreement, in order to move forward on the Northern
Ireland peace process.
Prior to this action, the committee met for organizational purposes.
The committee adopted an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress.
COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION; OVERSIGHT PLAN
Committee on Homeland Security: Met for organizational purposes.
The Committee adopted an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress.
DELEGATES FLOOR VOTE
Committee on Rules: Granted by a vote of 9 to 3, a structured rule. The rule
provides 1 hour of general debate in the House on H. Res. 78, Amending the
Rules of the House of Representatives to permit Delegates and the Resident
Commissioner to the Congress to cast votes in the Committee of the Whole House
on the state of the Union, equally divided and controlled by the chairman and
ranking minority member of the Committee on Rules. The rule waives all points
of order against the resolution and against its consideration and provides
that the resolution shall be considered as read. The rule makes in order the
amendment printed in the Rules Report accompanying this resolution, if offered
by Rep. Kirk of Illinois. The amendment shall be considered as read, shall be
debatable for 20 minutes equally divided and controlled by the proponent and
an opponent, and shall not be subject to a demand for a division of the
question. The rule also waives all points of order against the amendment
printed in the report, and contains one motion to recommit which may not
contain instructions. Finally, the rule provides that, notwithstanding the
operation of the previous question, the Chair may postpone further
consideration of the bill to a time designated by the Speaker. Testimony was
heard from Delegates Faleomavaega and Bordallo; and Representative Kirk.
[Page: D79]
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Economic
Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management held a hearing on the
State of Economic Development. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
STATE OF U.S. ECON0MY
Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing on the State of the U.S. Economy.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
SUBCOMMITTEE ORGANIZATION
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Oversight met for organizational
purposes.
2007/01/24
Daily Digest - Wednesday, January 24, 2007; pages D81 - D86
Committee Meetings
COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION
Committee on Education and Labor: Met for organizational purposes.
SOUTH SUDAN
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health held a
hearing on South Sudan: The Comprehensive Peace Agreement on Life Support.
Testimony was heard from Representative Wolf; and Roger Winter, former Special
Representative for Sudan.
COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION
Committee on the Judiciary: Met for organizational purposes.
[Page: D85]
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION; OVERSIGHT PLAN
Committee on Science and Technology: Ordered reported the following measures:
H.R. 365, Methamphetamine Remediation Research Act of 2007; H. Res. 59,
Supporting the goals and ideals of National Engineers Week; and H. Con. Res.
34, Honoring the life of Percy Lavon Julian, a pioneer in the field of organic
chemistry research and development and the first and only African American
chemist to be inducted into the National Academy of Sciences.
Prior to this action, the Committee met for organizational purposes.
The Committee approved an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress.
SURFACE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Highways and
Transit held a hearing on Surface Transportation System: Challenges for the
Future. Testimony was heard from Jeffrey N. Shane, Under Secretary, Policy,
Department of Transportation; and public witnesses.
POVERTY--ECONOMIC AND SOCIETAL COSTS
Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing on Economic and Societal Costs of
Poverty. Testimony was heard from Sigurd R. Nilsen, Director, Education,
Workforce, and Income Security, GAO; and public witnesses.
INTELLIGENCE SUPPORT TO POLICY MAKER
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Intelligence Support to the Policy Maker. Testimony was heard from
Lee Hamilton, Co-Chair, Iraq Study Group (Baker-Hamilton Commission).
2007/01/25
Daily Digest - Thursday, January 25, 2007; pages D87 - D92
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
2007/01/26
Daily Digest - Friday, January 26, 2007; pages D94 - D100
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
2007/01/29
Daily Digest - Monday, January 29, 2007; pages D102 - D106
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
2007/01/30
Daily Digest - Tuesday, January 30, 2007; pages D108 - D116
Committee Meetings
HOMELAND SECURITY GOALS
Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Homeland Security held a hearing
on 5 and 10 year Homeland Security Goals: Where We Need To Be as a Nation and
How We Judge Progress. Testimony was heard from the following former Senators:
Warren Rudman of New Hampshire; and Gary Hart of Colorado; the following
officials of the 9/11 Commission: former Representative Timothy J. Roemer of
Indiana; and Jamie S. Gorelick; and public witnesses.
AFGHANISTAN SECURITY AND STABILITY
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on Security and Stability in
Afghanistan: Challenges and Opportunities. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
FORCE REQUIREMENTS DETERMINATION PROCESS
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Military Personnel held a hearing
on examination of the force requirements determination process. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense: MG Richard P
Formica, USA, Director, Force Management, Deputy Chief of Staff, G3,
Headquarters, U.S. Army; MG Stephen T. Johnson, USMC, Deputy Commanding
General, Marine Corps Combat Development Command; and Michael F. Applegate,
Director, Manpower Plans and Policy, Manpower and Reserve Affairs,
Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps; and Janet St. Laurent, Director, Defense
Capabilities and Management Team, GAO.
CBO'S BUDGET AND ECONOMIC OUTLOOK
Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on the Congressional Budget Office's
Budget and Economic Outlook. Testimony was heard from Peter R. Orszag,
Director, CBO.
GENETIC DISCRIMINATION OF WORKERS
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor
and Pensions held a hearing on Protecting Workers from Genetic Discrimination.
Testimony was heard from Representatives Slaughter and Biggert; and public
witnesses.
LOS ALAMOS NATIONAL LABORATORY SECURITY
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
held a hearing entitled "Continuing Security Concerns at Los Alamos National
Laboratory." Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Energy: Gregory H. Friedman, Inspector General; Glenn S.
Podonsky, Chief Health, Safety and Security Officer, Office of Health, Safety
and Security; Clay Sell, Deputy Secretary, Office of the Secretary; Thomas N.
Pyke, Jr., Chief Information Officer; Thomas P. D'Agostino, Acting
Administrator; William J. Desmond, Associate Administrator and Chief for
Defense Nuclear Security; and Linda Wilbanks, Chief Information Officer, all
with the National Nuclear Security Administration; Michael R. Anastasio,
Director, Los Alamos National Laboratory; and a public witness.
[Page: D113]
ALLEGATIONS OF POLITICAL INTERFERENCE WITH WORK OF CLIMATE CHANGE SCIENTISTS
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Held a hearing on allegations of
political interference with the work of government climate change scientists.
Testimony was heard from Drew Shindell, Goddard Institute for Space Studies,
NASA; and public witnesses.
FURTHER CONTINUING APPROPRIATIONS FISCAL YEAR 2007
Committee on Rules. Granted, by a vote of 8 to 4, a closed rule providing one
hour of debate in the House on H.J. Res. 20, making further continuing
appropriations for the fiscal year 2007, and for other purposes, equally
divided and controlled by the chairman and ranking minority member of the
Committee on Appropriations. The rule waives all points of order against the
joint resolution and against its consideration (except for clause 9 or 10 of
Rule XXI). The rule also provides that the joint resolution shall be
considered as read. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit.
Testimony was heard from Chairman Obey and Representatives Lewis of
California, Knollenberg, Weldon of Florida, Hall of Texas, Moran of Kansas,
Sessions, Walden of Oregon, Flake, Brown-Waite of Florida, Feeney, King of
Iowa and Campbell of California.
ADVANCE FUELS INFRASTRUCTURE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ACT
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment
held a hearing on H.R. 547, Advanced Fuels Infrastructure Research and
Development Act. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--COAST GUARD INTEGRATED DEEPWATER SYSTEM
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Coast Guard
and Maritime Transportation held an oversight hearing of Coast Guard
Integrated Deepwater System. Testimony was heard from ADM Thad W. Allen, USCG,
Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard; Department of Homeland Security; and public
witnesses.
FEDERAL RAILROAD SAFETY PROGRAM REAUTHORIZATION
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Railroads,
Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials held a hearing on Reauthorization of the
Federal Rail Safety Program. Testimony was heard from the following officials
of the Department of Transportation: Joseph Boardman, Administrator, Federal
Railroad Administration; and Calvin Scovel, Inspector General; Mark Rosenker,
Chairman, National Transportation Safety Board; and Katherine Siggerud,
Director, Physical Infrastructure Issues, GAO.
Hearings continue tomorrow.
COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION; OVERSIGHT PLAN
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Met for organizational purposes.
The Committee approved an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress.
TRADE AND GLOBALIZATION
Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing on Trade and Globalization.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
SUBCOMMITTEE ORGANIZATION
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Select Revenue Measures met for
organizational purposes.
SUBCOMMITTEE ORGANIZATION
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Trade met for organizational
purposes.
2007/01/31
Daily Digest - Wednesday, January 31, 2007; pages D117 - D126
Committee Meetings
ARMY EQUIPMENT RESET
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Air and Land Forces and the
Subcommittee on Readiness held a joint hearing on Army equipment reset.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense:
MG Vincent E. Boles, USA, Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff, G-4; BG Charles A.
Anderson, USA, Director, Force Development, Office of the Chief of Staff, G-8;
BG Robert M. Radin, USA, Deputy Chief of Staff, Logistics and Operations, U.S.
Army Materiel Command; and Thomas E. Mullins, Deputy Assistant Secretary of
the Army, Plans, Programs, and Resources; and William M. Solis, Director,
Defense Capabilities and Management Team, GAO.
NATIONAL NUCLEAR SECURITY ADMINISTRATION ACT IMPLEMENTATION
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Strategic Forces held a hearing
on the Department of Energy's implementation of the National Nuclear Security
Administration Act of 2000. Testimony was heard from Samuel W. Bodman,
Secretary of Energy; and the following officials of the Natural Resources and
Environment Division, GAO: Gene Aloise, Director; and James Noel, Assistant
Director.
SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Terrorism, Unconventional Threats
and Capabilities held a hearing on current manning, equipping and readiness
challenges facing Special Operations Forces. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Defense: GEN Doug Brown, USA,
Commander, U.S. Special Operations Command; LTG Robert W. Wagner, USA,
Commander, U.S. Army Special Operations Command; RADM Joseph Maguire, USN,
Commander, U.S. Naval Special Warfare Command; LTG Michael M. Wooley, USAF,
Commander, U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command; and MG Dennis J. Hejlik,
USMC, Commander, U.S. Marine Corps Special Operations Command.
STRENGTHENING THE MIDDLE CLASS
Committee on Education and Labor: Held a hearing on Strengthening America's
Middle Class: Evaluating the Economic Squeeze on America's Families. Testimony
was heard from public witnesses.
COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION
Committee on Financial Services: Met for organizational purposes.
IRAN CRISIS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on Understanding the Iran Crisis.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--PRESIDENTIAL SIGNING STATEMENTS
Committee on the Judiciary: Held an oversight hearing entitled "Presidential
Signing Statements under the Bush Administration: A Threat to Checks and
Balances and the Rule of Law?" Testimony was heard from John Elwood, Deputy
Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legal Counsel, Department of Justice;
former Representative Mickey Edwards of Oklahoma; and public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Science and Technology: Ordered reported the following measures:
H.R. 547, as amended, Advanced Fuels Infrastructure Research and Development
Act; and H. Res. 72, Recognizing the work and accomplishments of Mr. Britt
"Max" Mayfield, Director of the National Hurricane Center's Tropical
Prediction Center upon his retirement.
COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION; OVERSIGHT PLAN
Committee on Small Business: Met for organizational purposes.
The Committee also approved an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress.
FEDERAL RAILROAD SAFETY PROGRAM REAUTHORIZATION
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Railroads,
Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials concluded hearings on Reauthorization of
the Federal Rail Safety Program. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Water
Resources and Environment approved for full Committee action the following
bills: H.R. 720, Healthy Communities Water Supply Act of 2007; H.R. 569, as
amended, Water Quality Investment Act of 2007; and H.R. 700, as amended, Water
Quality Financing Act of 2007.
MIDDLE CLASS ECONOMIC CHALLENGES
Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing on the Economic Challenges Facing
Middle Class Families. Testimony was heard from Peter R. Orszag, Director,
CBO; and public witnesses.
[Page: D125]
2007/02/01
Daily Digest - Thursday, February 1, 2007; pages D127 - D134
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
2007/02/05
Daily Digest - Monday, February 5, 2007; pages D136 - D140
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
2007/02/06
Daily Digest - Tuesday, February 6, 2007; pages D141 - D146
Committee Meetings
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security held a hearing
on Major Management Challenges Facing the Department of Homeland Security in
Implementing Legislated and Other Security Improvements. Testimony was heard
from David M. Walker, Comptroller General, GAO; and Richard L. Skinner,
Inspector General, Department of Homeland Security.
PRESIDENT'S FY 2008 BUDGET
Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on the President's Fiscal Year 2008
Budget. Testimony was heard from Robert J. Portman, Director, OMB.
HHS'S FY 2008 BUDGET
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Held a hearing entitled "A Review of the
Department of Health and Human Services' Fiscal Year 2008 Budget." Testimony
was heard from Michael O. Leavitt, Secretary of Health and Human Services.
ISSUANCE OF SUBPOENAS
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
met and adopted a motion to issue subpoenas to several individuals to appear
as witnesses before the Subcommittee in connection with a planned hearing on
adequacy of the Food and Drug Administration to assure the safety of the drug
supply on February 13, 2007.
HURRICANE KATRINA--FEDERAL HOUSING RESPONSE
Committee on Financial Services: Held a hearing entitled "Federal Housing
Response to Hurricane Katrina." Testimony was heard from Representatives
Taylor, Jefferson, Boustany, Jr., and Melancon; Roy A. Bernardi, Deputy
Secretary, Department of Housing and Urban Development; David Garratt, Acting
Director of Recovery, FEMA, Department of Homeland Security; Walter Leger,
Chairman, Housing and Redevelopment Task Force, Louisiana Recovery Authority,
State of Louisiana; Gray Swoope, Executive Director, Development Authority,
State of Mississippi; and public witnesses.
RAIL AND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SECURITY
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Transportation and
Infrastructure held a hearing entitled "Update on Federal Rail and Public
Transportation Security Efforts." Testimony was heard from Kip Hawley,
Assistant Secretary; Transportation Security Administration, Department of
Homeland Security; the following officials of the Department of
Transportation: Terry Rosapep, Deputy Associate Administrator, Program
Management, Federal Transit Administration; and Michael Haley, Deputy Chief
Counsel, Federal Railroad Administration; and Cathleen A. Berrick, Director,
Homeland Security and Justice Issues, GAO.
[Page: D144]
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland
Security approved for full Committee action the following bills: H.R. 545,
Native American Methamphetamine Enforcement and Treatment Act of 2007; H.R.
137, Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act of 2007; and H.R. 740, To
amend title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing.
Prior to this action, the Subcommittee held a hearing on these bills.
Testimony was heard from Representatives Tim Murphy of Pennsylvania; and Udall
of New Mexico; Barry M. Sabin, Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Department
of Justice; and public witnesses.
IRAQ RECONSTRUCTION COALITION PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Held a hearing entitled "The
Lasting Impact of CPA Decision-Making on Iraq Reconstruction." Testimony was
heard from Ambassador L. Paul Bremer, former Administrator, Coalition
Provisional Authority; Stuart W. Bowen, Jr., Special Inspector General for
Iraq Reconstruction; and David R. Oliver, Jr., former Advisor, Iraq Ministry
of Finance, former Director of Management and Budget, Coalition Provisional
Authority.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Economic
Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management approved for full
Committee action the following bills: H.R. 798, To direct the Administrator of
General Services to install a photovoltaic system for the headquarters
building of the Department of Energy; H.R. 799, Appalachian Regional
Development Act Amendments of 2007; H.R. 187, To designate the Federal
building and United States courthouse and customhouse located at 515 West
First Street in Duluth, Minnesota, as the "Gerald W. Heaney Federal Building
and United States Courthouse and Customhouse;" H.R. 342, To designate the
United States courthouse located at 555 Independent Street, Cape Girardeau,
Missouri, as the "Rush Hudson Limbaugh, Sr., United States Courthouse;" H.R.
399, To designate the United States Courthouse to be constructed in Jackson,
Mississippi, as the "R. Jess Brown United States Courthouse;" H.R. 429, To
designate the United States courthouse located at 225 Cadman Plaza East,
Brooklyn, New York, as the "Hugh L. Carey United States Courthouse;" H.R. 430,
To designate the United States bankruptcy courthouse located at 271 Cadman
Plaza East, Brooklyn, New York as the "Conrad Duberstein United States
Bankruptcy Courthouse;" H.R. 478, To designate the Federal building and United
States courthouse located at 101 Barr Street in Lexington, Kentucky, as the
"Scott Reed Federal Building and United States Courthouse;" H.R. 544, To
designate the United States courthouse at South Federal Place in Sante Fe, New
Mexico, as the "Santiago E. Campos United States Courthouse;" and H.R. 584, To
designate the headquarters building of the Department of Education in
Washington, D.C., as the Lyndon Baines Johnson Federal Building.
PRESIDENT'S FY 2008 BUDGET PROPOSALS
Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing on the President's FY 2008 budget
proposals. Testimony was heard from Henry M. Paulson, Jr., Secretary of the
Treasury.
2007/02/07
Daily Digest - Wednesday, February 7, 2007; pages D148 - D154
Committee Meetings
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security held a hearing
on Using Risk to Determine Homeland Security Investments. Testimony was heard
from William Jenkins, Director, Homeland Security and Justice Issue Team, GAO;
and a public witness.
NATIONAL DEFENSE BUDGET REQUEST
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on the Fiscal Year 2008 National
Defense Budget Request from the Department of Defense. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Defense: Robert M. Gates,
Secretary; and GEN Peter Pace, USMC, Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff.
TREASURY DEPARTMENT FY 2008 BUDGET
Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on the Treasury Department Fiscal Year
2008 Budget. Testimony was heard from Henry M. Paulson, Jr., Secretary of the
Treasury.
STRENGTHENING AMERICA'S MIDDLE CLASS--ECONOMIC SOLUTIONS
Committee on Education and Labor: Held a hearing on Strengthening America's
Middle Class: Finding Economic Solutions to Help America's Families. Testimony
was heard from public witnesses.
FOREIGN INVESTMENTS IN THE U.S.
Committee on Financial Services: Held a hearing entitled "Committee on Foreign
Investment in the United States (CFIUS), One Year After Dubai Ports World."
Testimony was heard from Clay Lowery, Assistant Secretary, Department of the
Treasury; former Representative Steve Bartlett of Texas; and public witnesses.
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS BUDGET
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on International Relations Budget
for Fiscal Year 2008. Testimony was heard from Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of
State.
HOMELAND SECURITY DEPARTMENT CHALLENGES
Committee on Homeland Security: Held a hearing entitled "An Overview of Issues
and Challenges Facing the Department of Homeland Security." Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the GAO: David M. Walker, Comptroller
General; and Norman Rabkin, Managing Director, Homeland Security and Justice;
and Richard L. Skinner, Inspector General, Department of Homeland Security.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on the Judiciary: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 545,
Native American Methamphetamine Enforcement and Treatment Act of 2007; H.R.
137, amended, Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act of 2007; and H.R.
740, To amend title 18, United States Code, to prevent caller ID spoofing.
[Page: D152]
COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION
Committee on Natural Resources: Met for organizational purposes.
The Committee also approved an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress.
IRAQ RECONSTRUCTION
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Held a hearing entitled "Iraqi
Reconstruction: Reliance on Private Military Contractors and Status Report."
Testimony was heard from Tina Ballard, Assistant Under Secretary, Procurement
and Policy, Department of the Army; and public witnesses.
ADVANCED FUELS INFRASTRUCTURE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ACT; OVERSIGHT PLAN
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, an open rule providing 1 hour of
general debate on H.R. 547, Advanced Fuels Infrastructure Research and
Development Act, equally divided and controlled by the chairman and ranking
minority member of the Committee on Science and Technology. The rule waives
all points of order against consideration of the bill except those arising
under clauses 9 or 10 of rule XXI. The rule makes in order the Committee on
Science and Technology amendment in the nature of a substitute now printed in
the bill as an original bill for the purpose of amendment. The amendment in
the nature of a substitute shall be considered for amendment by section with
each section considered as read. The rule authorizes the Chair to accord
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 Gordon; and
Representatives Hall of Texas, Burgess and King of Iowa.
The Committee adopted an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress, and authorized
its transmission to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform and the
Committee on House Administration.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; OVERSIGHT PLAN
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Ordered reported the following
bills: H.R. 720, Water Quality Financing Act of 2007; H.R. 569, Water Quality
Investment Act of 2007; H.R. 700, Healthy Communities Water Supply Act of
2007; H.R. 798, To direct the Administrator of General Services to install a
photovoltaic system for the headquarters building of the Department of Energy;
H.R. 799, amended, Appalachian Regional Development Act Amendments of 2007;
H.R. 802, amended, Maritime Pollution Prevention Act of 2007; H.R. 342,
amended, To designate the United States courthouse located at 555 Independent
Street, Cape Girardeau, Missouri, as the "Rush Hudson Limbaugh, Sr., United
States Courthouse;" H.R. 399, To designate the United States Courthouse to be
constructed in Jackson, Mississippi, as the "R. Jess Brown United States
Courthouse;" H.R. 429, To designate the United States courthouse located at
225 Cadman Plaza East, Brooklyn, New York, as the "Hugh L. Carey United States
Courthouse;" H.R. 430, amended, To designate the United States bankruptcy
courthouse located at 271 Cadman Plaza East, Brooklyn, New York as the "Conrad
Duberstein United States Bankruptcy Courthouse;" H.R. 478, To designate the
Federal building and United States courthouse located at 101 Barr Street in
Lexington, Kentucky, as the "Scott Reed Federal Building and United States
Courthouse;" H.R. 544, To designate the United States courthouse at South
Federal Place in Sante Fe, New Mexico, as the "Santiago E. Campos United
States Courthouse;" and H.R. 584, amended, To designate the headquarters
building of the Department of Education in Washington, D.C., as the Lyndon
Baines Johnson Federal Building.
The Committee approved an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress.
OMB FY 2008 BUDGET REQUEST
Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing on the President's Fiscal Year
2008 for the OMB. Testimony was heard from Ronald J. Portman, Director, OMB.
SUBCOMMITTEE ORGANIZATION
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Social Security met for
organizational purposes.
2007/02/08
Daily Digest - Thursday, February 8, 2007; pages D156 - D166
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
Safety: Shedding Light on a Broken System. Testimony was heard from David M.
Walker, Comptroller General, GAO; and public witnesses.
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security held a hearing
on the Secretary of Homeland Security. Testimony was heard from Michael
Chertoff, Secretary of Homeland Security.
STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and
Related Programs held a hearing on oversight of Assistance Programs in Iraq.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of State:
Howard J. Krongard, Inspector General; and Donald Gambatesa, Inspector
General, U.S. Agency for International Development; and Stuart W. Bowen, Jr.,
Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction.
NAVY LITTORAL COMBAT SYSTEM OVERSIGHT
Committee on Armed Services, Subcommittee on Seapower and Expeditionary Forces
held a hearing on acquisition oversight of the U.S. Navy's Littoral Combat
System. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
the Navy: Delores Etter, Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Research,
Development, and Acquisition; VADM Paul Sullivan, USN, Commander, Naval Sea
Systems Command; RADM Charles Hamilton, USN, Program Executive Officer
(Ships); and RADM Barry McCullough, USN, Director, Surface Warfare Division
(N86), Office of the Chief of Naval Operations; and public witnesses.
STRENGTHENING THE MIDDLE CLASS
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor
and Pensions held a hearing on Strengthening America's Middle Class Through
the Employee Free Choice Act. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
ENERGY DEPARTMENT'S BUDGET FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Held a hearing on the Department of Energy's
Budget for Fiscal Year 2008. Testimony was heard from Samuel W. Bodman,
Secretary of Energy.
DARFUR CRISIS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on The Escalating Crisis in
Darfur: Are There Any Prospects for Peace? Testimony was heard from Andrew
Natsios, Special Envoy to Sudan and former Administrator, United States Agency
for International Development, Department of State.
OVERSIGHT--HOMELAND SECURITY CONTRACTS
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Held a hearing entitled
"Management of Massive Homeland Security Contracts: Deepwater and SBInet."
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Homeland
Security: Richard Skinner, Inspector General; Elaine Duke, Chief Procurement
Officer; Greg Giddens, Director, SBI Program Executive Office; and ADM Thad W.
Allen, USCG, Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard; David M. Walker, Comptroller
General, GAO; and public witnesses.
CLIMATE CHANGE SCIENCE
Committee on Science and Technology: Held a hearing on The State of Climate
Change Science 2007: The Findings of the Fourth Assessment Report by the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Working Group I Report.
Testimony was heard from Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House of
Representatives; and public witnesses.
[Page: D161]
SBA'S BUDGET FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing entitled "The Small Business
Administration's Budget for Fiscal Year 2008." Testimony was heard from Steven
Preston, Administrator, SBA.
TRANSPORTATION/EPA BUDGET FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Held a hearing entitled "FY
2008 President's Budget Request for Department of Transportation and
Environmental Protection Agency." Testimony was heard from Mary E. Peters,
Secretary of Transportation; and the following officials of the EPA: Benjamin
H. Grumbles, Assistant Administrator, Water; and Susan Parker Bodine,
Assistant Administrator, Solid Waste and Emergency Response.
VA'S BUDGET REQUEST FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Held a hearing on the VA's budget request for
Fiscal Year 2008. Testimony was heard from R. James Nicholson, Secretary of
Veterans Affairs; and representatives of veterans organizations.
HHS BUDGET FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing on the President's budget
proposals for the Department of Health and Human Services. Testimony was heard
from Michael O. Leavitt, Secretary of Health and Human Services.
OVERSIGHT PLAN: NATIONAL INTELLIGENCE ESTIMATES ON IRAQ
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: On February 7, the Committee
approved an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress.
The Committee also approved Member requests to view the National Intelligence
Estimate on Iraq.
2007/02/09
Daily Digest - Friday, February 9, 2007; pages D168 - D170
Committee Meetings
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing on U.S.
Army FY '07 Supplemental. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the Department of the Army: Francis J. Harvey, Secretary; and GEN Peter J.
Schoomaker, Chief of Staff.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS' AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans'
Affairs, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Quality of Life. Testimony was
heard from SGM Kenneth O. Preston, Department of the Army; Master Chief Petty
Officer Joe Campa, Department of the Navy; SGM Major John L. Estrada, Marine
Corps; and CMSgt. Rodney J. McKinley, U.S. Air Force.
HOMELAND SECURITY DEPARTMENT FY 2008 BUDGET REQUEST
Committee on Homeland Security: Held a hearing entitled "An Examination of the
President's FY 2008 Budget Request for the Department of Homeland Security."
Testimony was heard from Michael Chertoff, Secretary of Homeland Security.
PHARMACEUTICAL PRICING WASTE, FRAUD AND ABUSE ALLEGATIONS
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Held a hearing entitled
"Allegations of Waste, Fraud, and Abuse in Pharmaceutical Pricing: Financial
Impacts on Federal Health Programs and the Federal Taxpayer." Testimony was
heard from John Dicken, Director, Health Care, GAO; Lew Morris, Counsel,
Office of the Inspector General, Department of Health and Human Services; Ron
Tenpas, Associate Deputy Attorney General, Department of Justice; Patrick J.
O'Connell, Chief, Civil Medicaid Fraud, Attorney General, State of Texas; and
public witnesses.
[Page: D170]
2007/02/12
Daily Digest - Monday, February 12, 2007; pages D172 - D178
Committee Meetings
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing on U.S.
Air Force Fiscal Year 2007 Supplemental Request. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of the Air Force: Michael W. Wynee,
Secretary; and GEN T. Michael Moseley, USMC, Chief of Staff.
RESOLUTION DISAPPROVING DEPLOYMENT OF ADDITIONAL U.S. TROOPS TO IRAQ
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 9 to 4, a closed rule. The rule
provides for the following general debate in the House on H. Con. Res. 63,
disapproving of the decision of the President announced on January 10, 2007,
to deploy more than 20,000 additional United States combat troops to Iraq: (1)
not beyond midnight on Tuesday, February 13, 2007; (2) not beyond midnight on
Wednesday, February 14, 2007; and (3) 12 hours beginning on Thursday, February
15, 2007. All debate is equally divided and controlled by the Majority and
Minority Leader or their designees. The rule waives all points of order
against consideration of the concurrent resolution and provides that the
concurrent resolution shall be considered as read.
The rule provides that the Majority Leader at any time, after consultation
with the Minority Leader, may extend debate time for an additional hour. The
rule also provides that, notwithstanding the operation of the previous
question, the Chair may postpone further consideration of the bill to a time
designated by the Speaker. Finally, the rule contains one motion to recommit
which may not contain instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman Skelton,
Chairman Lantos, Representatives Jones of North Carolina, Pence, Wolf, Shays,
Gilchrest, and Sam Johnson of Texas.
SMALL BUSINESS TAX RELIEF ACT OF 2007
Committee on Ways and Means: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 976, Small
Business Tax Relief Act of 2007.
2007/02/13
Daily Digest - Tuesday, February 13, 2007; pages D179 - D186
Committee Meetings
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing on U.S.
Navy/Marine Corps Fiscal Year 2007 Supplemental Request. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of the Navy: Donald Winter,
Secretary; and ADM Michael G. Mullen, USN, Chief of Naval Operations; and GEN
James T. Conway, USMC, Commandant of the Marine Corps.
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security held a hearing
on Aviation Security Challenges. Testimony was heard from Edmund S. (Kip)
Hawley, Director, Transportation Security Administration, Department of
Homeland Security; and Cathleen Berrick, Assistant Director, GAO.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on Transportation Security Challenges.
Testimony was heard from Edmund S. (Kip) Hawley, Director, Transportation
Security Administration, Cathleen Berrick, Assistant Director, GAO; and public
witnesses.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and
Related Agencies, held a hearing on Overview of National Forest Service.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the USDA: Mark E. Rey,
Under Secretary, Natural Resources and Environment; and Abigail R. Kimball,
Chief, U.S. Forest Service.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS' AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans'
Affairs, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Related Agencies. Testimony
was heard from the following officials of the American Battle Monuments
Commission: GEN. Frederick M. Franks, Jr., U.S. Army (Ret), Chairman; and BG.
John W. Nicholson, U.S. Army (Ret) Secretary; John Paul Woodley, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works), Arlington National Cemetery;
and Timothy C. Cox, Chief Operating Officer, Armed Forces Retirement Home.
AFGHANISTAN SECURITY AND STABILITY
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on an assessment of security and
stability in Afghanistan and developments in U.S. strategy and operations.
Testimony was heard from Mary Beth Long, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary,
International Security Affairs, Department of Defense; John Anthony Gastright,
Jr., Deputy Assistant Secretary, South and Central Asian Affairs and
Coordinator for Afghanistan, Department of State; and LTG General Karl
Eikenberry, USA, former Commander, Combined Forces Command-Afghanistan.
MILITARY HEALTH CARE BUDGET
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Military Personnel held a hearing
to review the fiscal year 2008 military health care budget and the challenges
facing the military health care system. Testimony was heard from William
Winkenwerder, M.D., Assistant Secretary, Health Affairs, Department of
Defense.
MARINE CORPS/NAVY RESET REQUIREMENTS
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Seapower and Expeditionary Forces
and the Subcommittee on Readiness held a joint hearing on U.S. Marine Crops
and U.S. Navy reset requirements. Testimony was heard from LTG Emerson
Gardner, USMC, Deputy Commandant, Programs and Resources; and VADM Jonathon
Greenert, USN, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations, Integration of Capabilities
and Resources, both with the Department of the Navy.
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES BUDGET FY 2008
Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on the Department of Health and Human
Services Fiscal Year 2008 Budget. Testimony was heard from Michael O. Leavitt,
Secretary of Health and Human Services.
CLIMATE CHANGE PRIVATE SECTOR VIEWS
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held
a hearing entitled "Addressing Climate Change--Views from Private Sector
Panels." Testimony was heard from former Representative Philip R. Sharp of
Indiana; and public witnesses.
FDA's DRUG SUPPLY SAFETY
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
held a hearing entitled "The Adequacy of FDA to Assure the Safety of the Drug
Supply. Testimony was heard from Senator Grassley; and public witnesses.
[Page: D183]
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; OVERSIGHT PLAN
Committee on Financial Services: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R.
835, To reauthorize the programs of the Department of Housing and Urban
Development for housing assistance for Native Hawaiians; and H.R. 556,
amended, National Security Foreign Investment Reform and Strengthened
Transparency Act of 2007.
The Committee approved an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress.
FUTURE OF THE UN
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on the Future of the United
Nations under Ban Ki-Moon. Testimony was heard from former Senator Timothy E.
Wirth of Colorado; former Senator George Mitchell of Maine and former
Co-Chair, U.S. Institute for Peace Task Forces on the United Nations; and John
Bolton, former U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
BORDER SECURITY
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Border, Maritime, and Global
Counterterrorism held a hearing entitled "Border Security: Infrastructure,
Technology, and the Human Element." Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Homeland Security; David V. Aguilar, Chief,
Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection; and RADM David Pekoske,
USCG, U.S. Coast Guard.
RAIL AND MASS TRANSIT SECURITY
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Transportation Security and
Infrastructure Protection held a hearing entitled "Rail and Mass Transit
Security: Industry and Labor Perspectives." Testimony was heard from Fred
Weiderhold, Inspector General, AMTRAK, and public witnesses.
FEDERAL AGENCY REGULATORY PLANNING AND REVIEW
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
held an oversight hearing entitled "Amending Executive Order 12866: Good
Governance or Regulatory Usurpation?" Testimony was heard from Steven D.
Aitken, Acting Administrator, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs,
OMB; Curtis W. Copeland, Specialist in American National Government, CRS,
Library of Congress; and public witnesses.
EXECUTIVE BRANCH REFORM ACT; WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION ENHANCEMENT ACT
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Held a hearing on the following:
the Executive Branch Reform Act of 2007; and the Whistleblower Protection
Enhancement Act of 2007. Testimony was heard from Tom Devine, Legal Director,
GAO; and public witnesses.
EARTH AND CLIMATE SCIENCE
Committee on Science and Technology: Held a hearing on National Imperatives
for Earth and Climate Science (National Academy of Sciences Decadal Survey)
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
FEDERAL AGENCY REGULATORY PLANNING AND REVIEW
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Investigations and
Oversight held a hearing on Amending Executive Order 12866: Good Governance or
Regulatory Usurpation? Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
PUBLIC-PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION PARTNERSHIPS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Highways and
Transit held a hearing entitled "Public-Private Partnerships: Innovative
Financing and Protecting the Public Interest." Testimony was heard from Tyler
Duvall, Assistant Secretary, Transportation Policy, Department of
Transportation; Frank Busalacchi, Secretary of Transportation, State of
Wisconsin; and public witnesses.
RAIL WORKER FATIGUE
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Railroads,
Pipelines and Hazardous Materials held a hearing entitled "Fatigue in the Rail
Industry." Testimony was heard from Joseph Boardman, Administrator, Federal
Railroad Administration, Department of Transportation; Mark V. Rosenker,
Chairman, National Transportation Safety Board; and public witnesses.
MEDICARE BUDGET PROPOSALS FY 2008
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on the
Medicare portions of the President's Fiscal Year 2008 Budget Proposals.
Testimony was heard from Leslie V. Norwalk, Acting Administrator, Centers for
Medicare and Medicaid, Department of Health and Human Services.
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY AND POVERTY; SUBCOMMITTEE ORGANIZATION
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Income Security and Family
Support held a hearing on economic opportunity and poverty in America.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
[Page: D184]
Prior to the hearing, the Subcommittee met for organizational purposes.
EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Oversight held a hearing on
Earned Income Tax Credit Outreach. Testimony was heard from Richard J.
Morgante, Commissioner, Wage and Investment Division, IRS, Department of the
Treasury; and public witnesses.
2007/02/14
Daily Digest - Wednesday, February 14, 2007; pages D188 - D194
Committee Meetings
USDA FARM BILL PROPOSALS
Committee on Agriculture: Held a hearing to review the proposals of the USDA
for the 2007 Farm bill. Testimony was heard from Mike Johanns, Secretary of
Agriculture.
Prior to the hearing, the Committee met for organizational purposes.
The Committee approved an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress.
FY 2008 NATIONAL DEFENSE BUDGET REQUEST--DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on the Fiscal Year 2008 National
Defense Budget request from the Department of the Army. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of the Army: Francis J. Harvey,
Secretary; and GEN Peter Schoomaker, USA, Chief of Staff.
SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND AND THE GLOBAL TERROR THREAT
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Terrorism, Unconventional Threats
and Capabilities held a hearing on the challenges for the Special Operations
Command (SOCOM) posed by the global terrorist threat. Testimony was heard from
Jarret Brachman, Director of Research, Combating Terrorism Center, U.S.
Military Academy, Department of the Army; and public witnesses.
MEMBERS DAY
Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on Members Day. Testimony was heard
from Representatives Peterson of Minnesota, Goodlatte, Cardoza, Dicks, Carson,
Ehlers, Holt, Boyda of Kansas, Buchanan, Larsen of Washington, Wolf, Hayes,
Higgins, Turner, Christensen, Filner, Oberstar, Honda, Altmire, Walz of
Minnesota, Ellsworth, Boozman, Watson and Bishop of Utah.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; OVERSIGHT PLAN
Committee on Education and Labor: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R.
800, Employee Free Choice Act; and H.R. 493, as amended, Genetic Information
Nondiscrimination Act of 2007.
The Committee approved an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress.
UNINSURED CHILDREN
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled "Covering the Uninsured Through the Eyes of a Child." Testimony was
heard from Chris L. Peterson, Specialist in Social Legislation, Domestic
Social Policy Division, CRS, Library of Congress; and public witnesses.
[Page: D191]
ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN PROCESS--NEXT STEPS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Middle East and South Asia held
a hearing on Next Steps in Israeli-Palestinian Peace Process. Testimony was
heard from public witnesses.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DIRECTORATE--UNDERSTANDING BUDGET AND STRATEGIC AGENDA
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Emerging Threats,
Cybersecurity, Preparedness, and Response Threats, Cybersecurity, and Science
and Technology held a hearing entitled "Understanding the Budget and Strategic
Agenda of the Science and Technology Directorate." Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the Department of Homeland Security: ADM Jay Cohen,
Under Secretary, Science and Technology; and Richard Williams, Chief Financial
Officer for Science and Technology.
DHS INTELLIGENCE AND TECHNOLOGY BUDGET--FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Intelligence, Information
Sharing, and Terrorism Risk Assessment, hearing entitled "The President's
Proposed FY 2008 Budget for the Department of Homeland Security: The Office of
Intelligence and Analysis." Testimony was heard from Charles E. Allen, Chief
Intelligence Officer, Office of Intelligence and Analysis, Department of
Homeland Security.
PROPOSED IMMIGRATION FEE INCREASE
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship,
Refugees, Border Security and International Law held a hearing on Proposed
Immigration Fee Increase. Testimony was heard from Emilio T. Gonzalez,
Director, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Department of Homeland
Security.
EXECUTIVE BRANCH REFORM ACT; WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION ENHANCEMENT ACT;
OVERSIGHT PLAN
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Ordered reported, as amended,
the following bills: H.R. 984, Executive Branch Reform Act of 2007; and H.R.
985, Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act of 2007.
The Committee also approved an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress.
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT REQUIREMENTS
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Information
Policy, Census, and National Archives held a hearing on The State of FOIA:
Assessing Agency Efforts to Meet FOIA Requirements. Testimony was heard from
Linda Koontz, Director, Information Management, GAO; Melanie Ann Pustay,
Acting Director, Office of Information and Privacy, Department of Justice.
CONSIDERATION OF MOTIONS TO SUSPEND THE RULES
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 8 to 4, a rule providing that the
bill (H.R. 976) to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax
relief for small businesses, and for other purposes, may be considered under
suspension of the rules at any time on the legislative day of Friday, February
16, 2007.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT BUDGET; OVERSIGHT PLAN
Committee on Science and Technology: Held a hearing on the Administration's FY
2008 Research and Development Budget Proposal. Testimony was heard from John
H. Murburger, III, Director, Office of Science and Technology.
The Committee also approved an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress.
SBA'S RESPONSE TO 2005 GULF COAST HURRICANES
Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing entitled "The Small Business
Administration's Response to the 2005 Gulf Coast Hurricanes." Testimony was
heard from Representatives Melancon and Baker; Steven Preston, Administrator,
SBA; William Shear, Director, Financial Markets and Community Investment, GAO;
Bryan McDonald, Director, Governor's Office of Recovery and Renewal, State of
Mississippi; and public witnesses.
FAA'S BUDGET
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing on the President's Fiscal Year 2008 Federal Aviation
Administration's Budget. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the Department of Transportation: Marion C. Blakey, Administrator, Federal
Aviation Administration; and Calvin L. Scovel, III, Inspector General; and
Gerald Dillingham, Director, Physical Infrastructure Issues, GAO.
AGENCY BUDGET AND PRIORITIES FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Water
Resources and the Environment held a hearing entitled "Agency Budgets and
Priorities for FY 2008." Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the Department of the Army: John Paul Woodley, Jr., Assistant Secretary, Civil
Works; and LTG Carl A. Strock, USA, Chief of Engineers, Corps of Engineers;
Collister Johnson, Jr., Administrator, Saint Lawrence Seaway Development
Corporation; Tom Kilgore, Chief Executive Officer, TVA; and Arlen Lancaster,
Chief, Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA.
[Page: D192]
VETERANS AFFAIRS HEALTH BUDGET
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on
Department of Veterans Affairs Fiscal Year 2008 Health Budget. Testimony was
heard from Michael J. Kussman, M.D., Acting Under Secretary for Health,
Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs;
representatives of veterans organizations; and public witnesses.
U.S. TRADE AGENDA
Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing on the direction and content of
U.S. Trade Agenda. Testimony was heard from Susan C. Schwab, U.S. Trade
Representative.
SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BACKLOGS
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Social Security held a hearing on
Social Security Administration (SSA) disability claims backlogs. Testimony was
heard from Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner, SSA; Sylvester J. Schieber,
Chairman, Social Security Advisory Board; and public witnesses.
2007/02/15
Daily Digest - Thursday, February 15, 2007; pages D195 - D202
Committee Meetings
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing on Fiscal
Year 2007 Supplemental Requests for Iraq and Afghan Security Forces Fund.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense:
MG Robert Durbin, Commander, Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan;
BG Michael D. Jones, Deputy Director, Political-Military Affairs, Joint Staff;
and Peter Rodman, Assistant Secretary, International Security Affairs.
HOMELAND SECURITY
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security held a hearing
on Coast Guard Iraq Operations, Port Security and Deepwater. Testimony was
heard from ADM Thad Allen, USCG, Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard, Department of
Homeland Security; Steve Caldwell, Assistant Director; and John P. Hutton,
both with GAO.
[Page: D199]
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education, and Related Agencies, held a hearing on (Panel I) Overview on
America's Workers and Education for the 21st Century. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on (Panel II) Overview on Health Care
Access and the Aging of America. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans'
Affairs, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Long-Term Health Care
Challenges. Testimony was heard from Stephen Heffler, Director, National
Health Statistics Group, Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Department
of Health and Human Services; A. Bruce Steinwald, Director, Healthcare Team,
GAO; and Allison Percy, Principal Analyst; and John P. Hutton, both with CBO.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
Testimony was heard from R. James Nicholson, Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
RECRUITING AND RETENTION OVERVIEW
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Military Personnel held a hearing
on overview of recruiting and retention. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Defense: David S. C. Chu, Under
Secretary, Personnel and Readiness; LTG Michael D. Rochelle, USA, Deputy Chief
of Staff, G-l; VADM John C. Harvey, Jr., USN, Chief of Naval Personnel; LTG
Roger A. Brady, USAF, Deputy Chief of Staff, Manpower and Personnel; and LTG
Ronald S. Coleman, USMC, Deputy Commandant, Manpower and Reserve Affairs.
USDA FY 2008 BUDGET PRIORITIES
Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on the U.S. Department of Agriculture
Fiscal Year 2008 Budget Priorities. Testimony was heard from Mike Johanns,
Secretary of Agriculture; and public witnesses.
Hearings continue tomorrow.
MONETARY POLICY AND THE STATE OF THE ECONOMY
Committee on Financial Services: Held a hearing on Monetary Policy and the
State of the Economy. Testimony was heard from Ben S. Bernanke, Chairman,
Board of Governors, Federal Reserve System.
Hearings continue tomorrow.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; AFGHANISTAN AT THE BRINK
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 957, To amend
the Iran Sanctions Act to expand and clarify the entities against which
sanctions may be imposed.
The Committee favorably considered the following measures and adopted a motion
urging the Chairman to request that they be considered on the Suspension
Calendar: H. Res. 98, as amended, Honoring the life and achievements of the
late Dr. John Garang de Mabior and reaffirming the continued commitment of the
House of Representatives to a just and lasting peace in the Republic of Sudan;
H.R. 987, NATO Freedom Consolidation Act of 2007; H.R. 1003, To amend the
Foreign Affairs Reform and Restructuring Act of 1998 to reauthorize the United
States Advisory Commission on Public Diplomacy; H. Res. 107, as amended,
Calling for the immediate and unconditional release of Israeli soldiers held
captive by Hamas and Hezbollah; H. Res. 149, Supporting the goals of
International Women's Day; and H. Res. 64, as amended, Expressing the sense of
the House of Representatives that the Government of Bangladesh should
immediately drop all pending charges against Bangladeshi journalist Salah
Uddin Shoaib Choudhury.
The Committee also held a hearing on Afghanistan on the Brink: Where Do We Go
From Here? Testimony was heard from Representative Kirk; and public witnesses.
PROTECTING HUMAN RIGHTS OF COMFORT WOMEN
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, and the
Global Environment held a hearing on Protecting the Human Rights of Comfort
Women. Testimony was heard from Representative Honda; and public witnesses.
HOMELAND SECURITY
Committee on Homeland Security: Held a hearing entitled "Lessons Learned and
Grading Goals: The Department of Homeland Security of 2007." Testimony was
heard from Michael P. Jackson, Deputy Secretary, Department of Homeland
Security.
[Page: D200]
OVERSIGHT--PATENT SYSTEM REFORM
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Courts, the Internet and
Intellectual Property held an oversight hearing on American Innovation at
Risk: The Case for Patent Reform. Testimony was heard from Suzanne Michel,
Chief Intellectual Property Counsel and the Deputy Assistant Director for
Policy Coordination, FTC; and public witnesses.
YOUTH VIOLENCE AND GANG INTERVENTIONS
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland
Security held a hearing entitled "Making Communities Safer: Youth Violence and
Gang Interventions that Work." Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
IRAQ RECONSTRUCTION
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Held a hearing entitled "Iraq
Reconstruction: An Overview." Testimony was heard from David M. Walker,
Comptroller General, GAO; William H. Reed, Director, Defense Contract Audit
Agency, Department of Defense; and Stuart W. Bowen, Jr., Special Inspector
General for Iraq Reconstruction.
NIST ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS ROLE
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Technology and Innovation
held a hearing on The National Institute of Standards and Technoloy's Role in
Supporting Economic Competitiveness in the 21st Century. Testimony was heard
from William Jeffrey, Director, National Institute of Standards and
Technology, Department of Commerce; and public witnesses.
SHORT SEA SHIPPING
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Coast Guard
and Maritime Transportation held a hearing entitled "The Development of Short
Sea Shipping in the United States." Testimony was heard from Sean Connaughton,
Administrator, Maritime Administration, Department of Transportation;
Collister Johnson, Jr. Administrator, St. Lawrence Seaway Development
Corporation; and public witnesses.
FILIPINO VETERANS
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Held a hearing on Equity for Filipino
Veterans. Testimony was heard from Representatives Bordallo, Hirono and Honda;
Ronald R. Aument, Deputy Under Secretary, Benefits, Department of Veterans
Affairs; Carlos D. Sorreta, Charge d'Affaires, Embassy of the Philippines; and
public witnesses.
VA INSPECTOR GENERAL
Committee on Veterans Affairs: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
held an oversight hearing on VA Inspector General-Budget and Best Practices.
Testimony was heard from George J. Opfer, Inspector General, Department of
Veterans Affairs.
U.S.-CHINA TRADE RELATIONSHIP
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Trade held a hearing on the
U.S.-China trade relationship. Testimony was heard from Karan K. Bhatia,
Deputy U.S. Trade Representative; from former Representatives Dan Glickman of
Kansas and Patricia Schroeder of Colorado; and public witnesses.
BRIEFING--HOT-SPOTS
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to
receive a briefing on Hot-Spots. The Committee was briefed by departmental
witnesses.
IRAN'S INVOLVEMENT IN IRAQ
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Iran's Involvement in Iraq. Testimony was heard from departmental
witnesses.
2007/02/16
Daily Digest - Friday, February 16, 2007; pages D204 - D208
Committee Meetings
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense met in executive session
to hold a hearing on Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Organization.
Testimony was heard from a public witness.
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on the Future of the Nation's Navigation
Infrastructure. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security held a hearing
on Implementation of U.S. VISIT Entry/Exit Program. Testimony was heard from
Bob Mochny, Acting Director, U.S. VISIT, Department of Homeland Security.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on the Forest Service: State and Private
Forestry and Research. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
USDA, Forest Service: Abigail R. Kimball, Chief; James E. Hubbard, Deputy
Chief; and Ann M. Bartuska, Deputy Chief, Research and Development.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative Branch held a hearing
on the Capitol Visitor Center. Testimony was heard from Stephen Ayers, Acting
Architect of the Capitol; Robert Hixon, Capitol Visitor Center Project
Executive; and Terrel Dorn, Director, Physical Infrastructure Issues, GAO.
[Page: D207]
STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and
Related Programs, on Fiscal Year 2007 held a hearing on Emergency Supplemental
Request. Testimony was heard from Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of State.
IRS AND THE TAX GAP
Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on IRS and the Tax Gap. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of the Treasury: Mark W.
Everson, Commissioner; and Nina E. Olson, National Taxpayer Advocate, both
with the IRS; and J. Russell George, Inspector General, Tax Administration;
Michael Brostek, Director, Tax Issues, Strategic Issues Team, GAO; and a
public witness.
MONETARY POLICY AND THE STATE OF THE ECONOMY
Committee on Financial Services: Concluded hearings on Monetary Policy and the
State of the Economy. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
TRANSPORTATION WORKFORCE SECURITY CLEARANCES
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Transportation Security and
Infrastructure Protection held a hearing entitled "Impact of Background and
Security Clearances on the Transportation Workforce." Testimony was heard from
Robert D. Jamison, Deputy Administrator, Transportation Security
Administration, Department of Homeland Security.
COMMITTEE ORGANIZATION; OVERSIGHT PLAN
Committee on House Administration: Met for organizational purposes.
The Committee approved an Oversight Plan for the 110th Congress.
OVERSIGHT--INTERIOR DEPARTMENT
Committee on Natural Resources: Held an oversight hearing entitled "Reports,
Audits and Investigations by the General Accountability Office (GAO) and the
Office of Inspector General (OIG) Regarding the Department of the Interior."
Testimony was heard from Earl E. Devaney, Inspector General, Department of the
Interior; and Robin M. Nazzaro, Director, Natural Resources and Environment,
GAO.
2007/02/17
Daily Digest - Friday, February 17, 2007; pages D209 - D212
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
[Page: D212]
2007/02/26
Daily Digest - Monday, February 26, 2007; pages D214 - D218
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
2007/02/27
Daily Digest - Tuesday, February 27, 2007; pages D219 - D226
Committee Meetings
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security held a hearing
on Secure Border Initiative. Testimony was heard from the following officials
of the Department of Homeland Security: W. Ralph Basham, Commissioner, Customs
and Border Patrol; Gregory Giddens, Manager, SBInet Program Manager; David
Aguilar, Chief, U.S. Border Patrol; and Jayson Ahern, Assistant Commissioner,
Field Operations; and the following officials of GAO: Richard Stana, Director,
Homeland Security Justice Issues; and Randolph Hite, Director, Information
Technology Architect and Systems Issues.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Interior Context. Testimony was heard from
Tracy Mehan, former Assistant Administrator, Water, Water Quality, EPA; and
public witnesses.
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education, and Related Agencies held a hearing on the Secretary of Health and
Human Services. Testimony was heard from Michael O. Leavitt, Secretary of
Health and Human Services.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative Branch held a hearing
on the Architect of the Capitol: Long-Range Requirements. Testimony was heard
from Stephen Ayers, Acting Architect of the Capitol; Anna Franz, Director,
Planning and Project Management; and Frank Tiscione, Superintendent of House
Office Buildings.
STRENGTHENING COMMUNITIES
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Healthy Families and
Communities held a hearing on Strengthening Communities: An Overview of
Service and Volunteering in America. Testimony was heard from David Eisner,
CEO, Corporation for National and Community Service; and public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--MINERAL AND LAND MANAGEMENT BUDGET
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources
held an oversight hearing to review the proposed fiscal year 2008 budget for
the Minerals Management Services, the Bureau of Land Management, Energy and
Minerals programs, the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement,
the Minerals and Geology Program of the Forest Service, and the U.S.
Geological Survey, except for the activities and programs of the Water
Resources Division. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of the Interior: R.M. Johnnie Burton, Director, Minerals Management
Service; Mark Myers, Director, U.S. Geological Survey; Jim Hughes, Acting
Director, Bureau of Land Management; and Brent Wahlquist, Acting Director,
Office of Surface Mining Reclamation Enforcement; and Frederick Norbury,
Associate Deputy Chief, National Forest System, U.S. Forest Service, USDA.
[Page: D223]
OVERSIGHT--NOAA--U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE BUDGET
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife, and
Oceans held an oversight hearing on the Fiscal Year 2008 budget request for
NOAA and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Testimony was heard from VADM
Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Jr., USN (Ret.) Under Secretary, Oceans and Atmosphere
and Administrator, NOAA, Department of Commerce; and H. Dale Hall, Director,
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior.
OVERSIGHT--OFFICE OF INSULAR AFFAIRS BUDGET
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Insular Affairs held an
oversight hearing on the Fiscal Year 2008 budget request for the Department of
the Interior's Office of Insular Affairs. Testimony was heard from David B.
Cohen, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Insular Affairs, Department of the
Interior; and the following Governors: Togiola T. A. Tulafono, American Samoa;
and Felix Perez Camacho, Guam.
OVERSIGHT--BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT AND FOREST SERVICE BUDGETS
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and
Public Lands held an oversight hearing on the Fiscal Year 2008 Budget Request
for the Bureau of Land Management and the Forest Service. Testimony was heard
from Abigail Kimbell, Chief, Forest Service, USDA; and Jim Hughes, Acting
Director, Bureau of Land Management, Department of the Interior.
NATIONAL SECURITY FOREIGN INVESTMENT REFORM AND STRENGTHENED TRANSPARENCY ACT
OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, an open rule with a preprinting
requirement. The rule provides one hour of general debate on H.R. 556.
National Security Foreign Investment Reform and Strengthened Transparency Act
of 2007, equally divided and controlled by the Chairman and Ranking Minority
Member of the Committee on Financial Services. The rule waives all points of
order against consideration of the bill except for clause 9 and 10 of Rule
XXI. The rule provides that the amendment in the nature of a substitute
recommended by the Committee on Financial Services now printed in the bill
shall be considered as an original bill for the purpose of amendment. The rule
provides that the committee amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be
considered for amendment by section and that each section shall be considered
as read.
The rule also makes in order only those amendments to the amendment in the
nature of a substitute that are pre-printed in the Congressional Record or are
pro forma amendments for the purpose of debate. The rule provides that each
amendment printed in the Congressional Record may be offered only by the
Member who caused it to be printed or a designee, and that each amendment
shall be considered as read. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit
with or with instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman Frank,
Representatives Maloney of NY, and Paul.
2007/02/28
Daily Digest - Wednesday, February 28, 2007; pages D228 - D238
Committee Meetings
FARM BILL--SPECIALTY AND ORGANIC CROPS
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Horticulture and Organic Agriculture
held a hearing to review the proposals of the Department of Agriculture for
the 2007 Farm Bill with respect to specialty crops and organic agriculture.
Testimony was heard from Chuck Conner, Deputy Secretary of Agriculture.
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 FDA.
Testimony was heard from the Department of Health and Human Services: Andrew
C. von Eschenbach, M.D., Commissioner, FDA; John R. Dyer, Deputy Commissioner,
Operations and Chief Operating Officer; and Norris W. Cochran, Director,
Division of Discretionary Programs, Office of Budget.
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on the National Science Board. Testimony was
heard from Steven C. Beering, Chairman, National Science Board.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on Science Funding. Testimony was heard
from public witnesses.
[Page: D233]
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Energy Outlook-the Next Decade. Testimony
was heard from Guy Caruso, Administrator, Energy Information Agency,
Department of Energy; Jim Wells, Director, Natural Resources and Environment,
GAO; and public witnesses.
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services and General
Government held a hearing on Consumer Issues. Testimony was heard from Deborah
Platt Majoras, Chairman, FTC; Nancy Nord, Acting Chairman, Consumer Product
Safety Commission; and public witnesses.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and
Related Agencies concluded hearings on the EPA. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the EPA: Stephen L. Johnson, Administrator; Marcus C.
Peacock, Deputy Administrator; Lyon Gray, Chief Financial Officer; Roger R.
Martella, Acting General Counsel; Bill Roderick, Acting Inspector General;
Judith E. Ayers, Assistant Administrator, Office of International Affairs;
William Wehrum, Assistant Administrator, Office of Air and Radiation; George
Gray, Assistant Administrator, Office of Research and Development; Benjamin H.
Grumbles, Assistant Administrator, Office of Water; Granta Y. Nakayama,
Assistant Administrator, Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance; James
B. Gulliford, Assistant Administrator, Office of Prevention, Pesticides and
Toxic Substances; Susan Bodine, Assistant Administrator, Office of Solid Waste
and Emergency Response; Molly O'Neill, Assistant Administrator, Office of
Environmental Information; and Luis A. Luna, Assistant Administrator, Office
of Administration and Resource Management.
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Health Resources and
Services Administration. Testimony was heard from Elizabeth M. Duke,
Administrator, Health Resources and Services Administration, Department of
Health and Human Services.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans'
Affairs, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Fiscal Year 2007 Supplemental
Request. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
Defense: Tina W. Jones, Under Secretary, Comptroller; and MG Brian I. Geehan,
Director, Logistics, Central Command.
TRANSPORTATION, HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES
APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation, and Housing and
Urban Development, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Transportation and
Housing: Trends and Challenges over the Next Decade. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses.
NATIONAL DEFENSE BUDGET REQUEST--DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on the Fiscal Year 2008 National
Defense Budget Request from the Department of the Air Force. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of the Air Force: Michael
W. Wynne, Secretary; and GEN T. Michael Moseley, USAF, Chief of Staff.
RESERVISTS G.I. BILL--IMPACT OF CHANGES
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Military Personnel held a hearing
on the impact of changes to the Reserve Montgomery G.I. Bill. Testimony was
heard from Michael L. Dominguez, Principal Deputy Under Secretary, Personnel
and Readiness, Department of Defense; and Keith Wilson, Director of Benefits,
Department of Veterans Affairs.
LONG TERM ECONOMIC OUTLOOK
Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on Fiscal Challenges and the Economy
in the Long Term. Testimony was heard from Ben S. Bernanke, Chairman, Board of
Governors, Federal Reserve System.
IMPROVING HEAD START
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary
and Secondary Education held a hearing on Improving Head Start for America's
Children. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
[Page: D234]
NCAA COACHING AND LEADERSHIP DIVERSITY
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and
Consumer Protection held a hearing entitled "The Lack of Diversity in
Leadership Positions in NCAA Collegiate Sports." Testimony was heard from
public witnesses.
TRANSPORTATION FUEL ECONOMY STANDARDS
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held
a hearing entitled "A Review of the Administration's Energy Proposal for the
Transportation Sector." Testimony was heard from Nicole Nason, Administrator,
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Department of Transportation;
and Edward P. Lazear, Chairman, Council of Economic Advisers.
CALLER ID MANIPULATION
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the
Internet approved for full Committee action, as amended, H.R. 251, Truth in
Caller ID Act of 2007.
Prior to this action, the Subcommittee held a hearing on this measure.
Testimony was heard from Kris Montieth, Chief, Enforcement Bureau, FCC; and
public witnesses.
KATRINA INSURANCE ISSUES
Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
held a hearing entitled "Insurance Claims Payment Processes in the Gulf Coast
after the 2005 Hurricanes." Testimony was heard from Representatives Taylor,
Jefferson and Jindal; David Maurstad, Director and Federal Insurance
Administrator, Mitigation Division, FEMA, Department of Homeland Security; Jim
Hood, Attorney General, State of Mississippi; and a public witness.
IRAQ AND U.S. FOREIGN POLICY
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on Iraq and U.S. Foreign Policy.
Testimony was heard from Richard C. Holbrooke, former U.S. Ambassador to the
United Nations; and a public witness.
NORTH KOREA: THE FEBRUARY 13TH AGREEMENT
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on North Korea: The February 13th
Agreement. Testimony was heard from Christopher R. Hill, Assistant Secretary,
Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Department of State.
FEMA REFORM
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Emergency Communication,
Preparedness, and Response and the Subcommittee on Management, Investigations,
and Oversight held a joint hearing entitled "Reforming FEMA: Are We Making
Progress?" Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of Homeland Security: R. David Paulison, Under Secretary, Federal Emergency
Management, FEMA; George Foresman, Under Secretary, Preparedness; and Matt
Jadacki, Deputy Inspector General.
COMMITTEE FUNDING
Committee on House Administration: Met to consider Committee funding requests
for the following Committees: Foreign Affairs; Judiciary; Financial Services;
Homeland Security; Transportation and Infrastructure; Armed Services;
Education and the Workforce; Oversight and Government Reform; Rules; Ways and
Means; Small Business; Veterans' Affairs; Energy and Commerce; Agriculture,
Science and Technology; Budget; Intelligence; Standards; and Natural
Resources.
JUDICIAL DISCLOSURE RESPONSIBILITY ACT; ESTABLISHED ANTITRUST TASK FORCE
Committee on the Judiciary: Ordered reported H.R. 1130, Judicial Disclosure
Responsibility Act.
The Committee also approved the following: a resolution establishing the
Antitrust Task Force; and other pending Committee business.
COMPETITION AND THE FUTURE OF DIGITAL MUSIC
Committee on the Judiciary: Antitrust Task Force held a hearing on Competition
and the Future of Digital Music. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--EVOLVING WEST
Committee on Natural Resources: Held an oversight hearing on the Evolving
West. Testimony was heard from Representatives Walden of Oregon, Nunes, Herger
and Rehberg; Governor Brian Schweitzer of Montana; former Representative Pat
Williams of Montana; and public witnesses.
BUDGET VIEWS AND ESTIMATES; MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY
FUNDING
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Ordered reported the following
measures: H. Res. 180, Honoring the life and achievements of Leo T. McCarthy
and expressing profound sorrow on his death; H. Res. 162, Recognizing the
contributions of the Negro Baseball Leagues and their players; and H. Con.
Res. 62, Supporting the goals and ideals of a National Children and Families
Day, in order to encourage adults in the United States to support and listen
to children and to help children throughout the Nation achieve their hopes and
dreams.
[Page: D235]
The Committee approved Budget Views and Estimates for Fiscal Year 2008 for
submission to the Committee on the Budget.
The Committee also held a hearing entitled "Reforming the Presidential Library
Funding Disclosure Process." Testimony was heard from Sharon Fawcett,
Assistant Archivist for Presidential Libraries, National Archives and Records
Administration; and public witnesses.
9/11 FIRST RESPONDER HEALTH
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Organization, and Procurement held a hearing entitled "9/11 Health
Effects: Federal Monitoring and Treatment of Residents and Responders."
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Health
and Human Services: John Agwunobi, M.D., Assistant Secretary of Health and
Chair of HHS9/11 Task Force; and John Howard, M.D., Director, National
Institute for Occupational Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
and Federal 9/11 Health Coordinator; the following officials of the City of
New York: Linda I. Gibbs, Deputy Mayor, Health and Human Services; and Edward
Skyler, Deputy Mayor, Administration; and public witnesses.
EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE ACT
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 8 to 3, a structured rule. The rule
provides 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 800, Employee Free Choice Act,
equally divided and controlled by the Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of
the Committee on Education and Labor. The rule waives all points of order
against consideration of the bill except for clause 9 and 10 in Rule XXI. The
rule provides that the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by
the Committee on Education and Labor now printed in the bill shall be
considered as an original bill for the purpose of amendment and shall be
considered as read.
The rule makes in order only those amendments printed in the Rules Committee
report accompanying the resolution. The rule provides that the amendments made
in order may be offered 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 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 except for clause 10 of
Rule XXI. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit with or without
instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman George Miller of CA,
Representatives Andrews, McKeon, Kline, Price of GA, Boustany, Foxx, Davis of
TN, Shays and Musgrave.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Science and Technology: Ordered reported the following bills:
H.R. 85, amended, Energy Technology Transfer Act; H.R. 1068, To amend the
High-Performance Computing Act of 1991; H.R. 1126, To reauthorize the Steel
and Aluminum Energy Conservation and Technology Competitiveness Act of 1988;
and H.R. 363, amended, Sowing the Seeds through Science and Engineering
Research Act.
BUDGET VIEWS AND ESTIMATES
Committee on Small Business: Approved Budget Views and Estimates for Fiscal
Year 2008 for submission to the Committee on the Budget.
VA INFORMATION AND SECURITY MANAGEMENT
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
held a hearing on Information and Security Management at the Department of
Veterans Affairs. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Veterans Affairs: Gordon Mansfield, Deputy Secretary; Robert
Howard, Assistant Secretary, Information and Technology; James Bagian, M.D.,
Chief Patient Safety Officer; Maureen Regan, Counselor for the Inspector
General; and Arnaldo Claudio, Oversight and Compliance Representative; Greg
Wilshusen, Director, Information Technology Security Issues, GAO; and public
witnesses.
BUDGET VIEWS AND ESTIMATES; ENERGY AND TAX POLICY
Committee on Ways and Means: Approved Budget Views and Estimates for Fiscal
Year 2008 for submission to the Committee on the Budget.
The Committee also held a hearing on Energy and Tax Policy, focusing on
climate change. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
SUPPLEMENTAL REQUEST FISCAL YEAR 2007
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Fiscal Year 2007 Supplemental Request. Testimony was heard from
departmental witnesses.
[Page: D236]
2007/03/01
Daily Digest - Thursday, March 1, 2007; pages D239 - D247
Committee Meetings
BUDGET VIEWS AND ESTIMATES
Committee on Agriculture: Approved Budget Views and Estimates for Fiscal Year
2008 for submission to the Committee on the Budget.
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 USDA's
Inspector General. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
USDA: Phyllis K. Fong, Inspector General; Kathleen S. Tighe, Deputy Inspector
General; Robert W. Young, Jr., Assistant Inspector General, Audit; Mark R.
Woods, Assistant Inspector General, Investigations; and Suzanne Murrin,
Assistant Inspector General, Management, all with the Office of Inspector
General; and W. Scott Steele, Budget Officer.
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS.
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on NSF. Testimony was heard from Arden L.
Bement, Jr., Director, NSF.
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Bureau of Reclamation. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of the Interior: P. Lynn
Scarlet, Deputy Secretary; and Robert Johnson, Commissioner, Bureau of
Reclamation.
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services and General
Government held a hearing on Financial Services for Disadvantaged Communities.
Testimony was heard from JoAnn M. Johnson, Chairman, National Credit Union
Administration; Kimberly A. Reed, Director, Community Development Financial
Institutions Fund, Department of the Treasury; and public witnesses.
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security held a hearing
on Meeting Boarder Patrol Training Needs. Testimony was heard from Connie
Patrick, Director, Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, Department of
Homeland Security.
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Substance Abuse and Mental
Health Services Administration/National Institute of Drug Abuse/National
Institute of Mental Health/and National Institute of Alcohol and Alcoholism.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Health
and Human Services; NIH: Terry Cline, M.D., Administrator, Substance Abuse and
Mental Health Services Administration; Nora Volkow, M.D., Director, National
Institute of Drug Abuse; Thomas Insel, M.D., Director, National Institute of
Mental Health; and T.K. Li, M.D., Director, National Institute of Alcohol and
Alcoholism.
[Page: D244]
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative Branch held a hearing
on the Architect of the Capitol: Budget. Testimony was heard from Stephen
Ayers, Acting Architect of the Capitol.
STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS.
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and
Related Programs held a hearing on Global HIV/AID. Testimony was heard from
Ambassador Mark Dybul, U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator, Department of State.
TRANSPORTATION, AND HUD, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation, and Housing and
Urban Development, and Related Agencies held a hearing on the Department of
Housing and Urban Development. Testimony was heard from Alphonso R. Jackson
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.
NATIONAL DEFENSE BUDGET REQUEST-DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on the Fiscal Year 2008 National
Defense Budget Request from the Department of the Navy. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of the Navy: Donald C. Winter,
Secretary; ADM Michael G. Mullen, USN, Chief of Naval Operations; and GEN
James T. Conway, USMC, Commandant of the Marine Corps.
MILITARY ADVOCACY/BENEFICIARY GROUPS
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Military Personnel held a hearing
on views of military advocacy and beneficiary groups. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses.
NUCLEAR POWER SYSTEMS AND NAVY COMBATANTS
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Seapower and Expeditionary Forces
held a hearing on integrated nuclear power systems for future Naval surface
combatants. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of the Navy: Delores Etter, Assistant Secretary, (Research, Development, and
Acquisition); ADM Kirkland Donald, USN, Director, Naval Nuclear Propulsion
Programs; VADM Jonathan Greenert, USN, Assistant Chief, Naval Operations for
Resource Requirements; VADM Paul Sullivan, USN, Commander, Naval Sea Systems
Command; and RADM Barry McCullough, USN, Director, Surface Warfare Division.
VETERANS AFFAIRS BUDGET
Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on the Department of Veterans Affairs
Fiscal Year 2008 Budget Priorities. Testimony was heard from R. James
Nicholson, Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
OVERSIGHT PLAN 110TH CONGRESS; COMMITTEE BUSINESS
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Approved Oversight Plan for the 110th
Congress.
The Committee also considered pending Committee business.
EPA BUDGET
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Environment and Hazardous
Materials held a hearing entitled "The Environmental Protection Agency Fiscal
Year 2008 Budget Request." Testimony was heard from Bill A. Roderick, Acting
Inspector General, EPA; Robert W. King, Jr., Deputy Commissioner, Department
of Health and Environmental Control, State of South Carolina; J. Christian
Bollwage, Mayor, Elizabeth, New Jersey; and public witnesses.
UNINSURED CHILDREN
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled "Covering the Uninsured Through the Eyes of a Child." Testimony was
heard from Kathryn G. Allen, Director, Health Care, GAO; Phyllis Sloyer, R.N.,
Division Director, Children's Medical Services, Department of Health, State of
Florida; Joseph F. Vitale, member New Jersey State Senate and Chairman,
Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee; and public witnesses.
WORLD WIDE WEB OUTLOOK
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the
Internet held a hearing entitled "Digital Future of the United States: Part
I-The Future of the World Wide Web." Testimony was heard from a public
witness.
BUDGET VIEWS AND ESTIMATES
Committee on Financial Services: Approved Budget Views and Estimates for
Fiscal Year 2008 for submission to the Committee on the Budget.
[Page: D245]
NORTH KOREAN HUMAN RIGHTS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, and the
Global Environment held a hearing on North Korean Human Rights: An Update.
Testimony was heard from Jay Lefkowitz, Special Envoy for Human Rights in
North Korea, Department of State.
U.S. POLICY TOWARD LATIN AMERICA
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere held a
hearing on Overview of U.S. Policy Toward Latin America. Testimony was heard
from Thomas A. Shannon, Jr., Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Western Hemisphere
Affairs, Department of State; and public witnesses.
HOMELAND SECURITY MANAGEMENT OUTLOOK
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Management, Investigations,
and Oversight held a hearing entitled "The Department of Homeland Security's
Directorate: Goals and Objectives of the New Under Secretary." Testimony was
heard from Paul A. Schneider, Under Secretary, Management, Department of
Homeland Security.
IMPROVE SECURITY--RAIL AND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Transportation Security and
Infrastructure Protection approved for full Committee action, as amended, a
measure to improve the security of railroads, public transportation and
over-the-road buses in the United States.
COMMITTEE FUNDING RESOLUTION
Committee on House Administration: Ordered reported, as amended, H. Res. 202,
Providing for the expenses of certain committees of the House of
Representatives in the One Hundred Tenth Congress.
ISSUANCE OF SUBPOENAS
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
met and approved the issuance of four subpoenas in conjunction with a
Subcommittee hearing to be held next week.
SENATE LOBBYING REFORM BILL
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and
Civil Liberties held a hearing on S. 1, To provide greater transparency in the
legislative process. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE BUDGET REQUEST FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and
Public Lands held an oversight hearing on the Fiscal Year 2008 Budget Request
for the National Park Service. Testimony was heard from Mary A. Bomar,
Director, National Park Service, Department of the Interior.
SAN JOAQUIN RIVER RESTORATION SETTLEMENT ACT
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Water and Power held a hearing
on H.R. 24, San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement Act. Testimony was heard
from Jason Peltier, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Water and Science,
Department of the Interior; the following officials of the State of
California: Lois Wolk, member State Assembly and Chair, Committee on Water,
Parks, and Wildlife; and Nancy Saracino, Chief Deputy Director, Department of
Water Resources; and public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--PRESIDENTIAL RECORDS ACT
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Information
Policy, Census and National Archives held an oversight hearing on The
Presidential Records Act. Testimony was heard from Allen Weinstein, Archivist
of the United States, National Archives and Records Administration; Harold
Relyea, Specialist in American National Government and Finance Division, CRS,
Library of Congress.
SMALL BUSINESS ACCESS TO CAPITAL
Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing entitled "Increasing Access to
Capital for Our Nation's Small Businesses." Testimony was heard from Janet
Tasker, Deputy Associate Administrator, Capital Access, SBA; and public
witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; BUDGET VIEWS AND ESTIMATES
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Ordered reported the following
bills: H.R. 1144, amended, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita Federal Match Relief
Act of 2007; H.R. 1195, amended, To amend the Safe, Accountable, Flexible,
Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users to make technical
corrections; H.R. 735, To designate the Federal building under construction at
799 First Avenue in New York, New York, as the "Ronald H. Brown United States
Mission to the United Nations Building;" H.R. 753, amended, To redesignate the
Federal building located at 167 North Main Street in Memphis, Tennessee, as
the "Clifford Davis/Odell Horton Federal Building;" H.R. 1019, To designate
the United States customhouse building located at 31 Gonzalez Clements Avenue
in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, as the "Rafael Martinez Nadal United States
Customhouse Building;" H.R. 1045, To designate the Federal building located at
210 Walnut Street in Des Moines, Iowa, as the "Neal Smith Federal Building;"
H.R. 1138, To designate the Federal building and United States courthouse
located at 306 East Main Street in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, as the "J.
Herbert W. Small Federal Building and United States Courthouse;" and H.R. 720,
Water Quality Financing Act of 2007. GSA Courthouse Construction Resolution.
[Page: D246]
The Committee also approved the following: GSA Courthouse Construction
Resolution; and Committee Budget Views and Estimates for Fiscal Year 2008 for
submission to the Committee on the Budget.
MEDICARE PAYMENT POLICIES
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on Medicare
Payment Advisory Commission's annual March report on Medicare payment
policies. Testimony was heard from Glenn M. Hackbarth, Chairman, Medicare
Payment Advisory Commission.
RELEASE EXECUTIVE SESSION MATERIAL
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session and
approved the release of the internal Cunningham investigation materials to the
Department of Justice.
2007/03/02
Daily Digest - Friday, March 2, 2007; pages D249 - D256
Committee Meetings
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease
Registry/Chemical Safety Board/National Institute on Environment Health
Sciences. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Chemical
Safety and Hazard Investigation Board: Carolyn W. Merritt, Chairman; and
Elizabeth Robinson, CFO; and the following officials of the Department of
Health and Human Services: David A. Schwartz, M.D., Director, National
Institute of Environmental Health; Julie Louise Gerberding, M.D., Director,
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Administrator of the Agency
for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry; and Howard Frumkin, M.D., Director,
National Center for Environmental Health/Agency for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry.
2007/03/05
Daily Digest - Monday, March 5, 2007; pages D257 - D262
Committee Meetings
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services and General
Government held a hearing on Tax Fairness: Policy and Enforcement. Testimony
was heard from the following officials of the IRS, Department of the Treasury:
Kathy Petronchak, Commissioner, Small Business/Self-Employed Division; and
Nina Olson, National Taxpayer Advocate; and public witnesses.
2007/03/06
Daily Digest - Tuesday, March 6, 2007; pages D264 - D274
Committee Meetings
AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Natural
Resources and Conservation Service. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the USDA: Mark E. Rey, Under Secretary, Natural Resources and
Environment; Arlen Lancaster, Chief; and Steven A. Probst, Director, Budget
Planning and Analysis Division, both with the National Resources Conservation
Service; and W. Scott Steele, Budget Officer.
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Department of Commerce Overview. Testimony
was heard from public witnesses.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on the Secretary of Commerce. Testimony
was heard from Carlos M. Gutierrez, Secretary of Commerce.
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on the Secretary of Energy. Testimony was
heard from Samuel W. Bodman, Secretary of Energy.
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services and General
Government held a hearing on Issues in the Federal Workforce. Testimony was
heard from Linda M. Springer, Director, OPM; Neil A.G. McPhie, Chairman, U.S.
Merit Systems Protection Board, J. Christopher Mihm, Managing Director,
Strategic Issues, GAO; and public witnesses.
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security held an
oversight hearing on Container Security Challenges and Goals. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of Homeland Security:
Jayson Ahern, Customs and Border Patrol; and Vayl Oxford, Director, Domestic
Nuclear Detection Office.
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education and Related Agencies held a hearing on the NIH Director with
National Cancer Institute/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute/National
Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease/National Institute of Child Health
and Human Development/National Center on Minority Health and Health
Disparities. Testimony was heard from the following officials of NIH,
Department of Health and Human Services: Elias Zerhouni, M.D., Director, NIH;
John Niederhuber, M.D., Director, National Cancer Institute; Elizabeth Nabel,
M.D., Director, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute; Anthony Fauci, M.D.,
Director, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease; Duane
Alexander, M.D., Director, National Institute of Child Health and Human
Development; and John Ruffin, Director, National Center on Minority Health and
Health Disparities.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans
Affairs and Related Agencies held a hearing on VA Medical Care. Testimony was
heard from public witnesses.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing and on Department of Veterans Affairs
Panel. Testimony was heard from Michael J. Kussman, Acting Under Secretary,
Health, Department of Veterans Affairs.
STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and
Related Programs held a hearing on Iraq Political and Reconstruction Strategy,
Alternative Perspectives. Testimony was heard from Ambassador Peter Galbraith,
Department of State; LTC Christopher W. Stockel, USAR; COL Lawrence Wilkerson,
USA (ret.), USA; and a public witness.
TRANSPORTATION, AND HUD, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation, and Housing and
Urban Development and Related Agencies held a hearing on the Department of
Transportation Inspector General Management Challenges and GAO High Risk
Series. Testimony was heard from Calvin Scovel, Inspector General, Department
of Transportation; and Patricia Dalton, Director, Physical Infrastructure,
GAO.
[Page: D270]
NATIONAL SECURITY PERSONNEL SYSTEM--IS IT WORKING?
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Readiness held a hearing on the
National Security Personnel System-Is it Working? Testimony was heard from
Michael Luis Dominguez, Principal Deputy Under Secretary, Personnel and
Readiness, Department of Defense; and public witnesses.
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE FY 2008 BUDGET
Committee on the Budget: Held a hearing on the Department of Defense and the
Fiscal Year 2008 Budget. Testimony was heard from Gordon England, Deputy
Secretary, Department of Defense.
RETIREMENT SECURITY AND 401(k)s
Committee on Education and Labor: Held a hearing on Are Hidden 401(k) Fees
Undermining Retirement Security? Testimony was heard from Barbara Bovbjerg,
Director, Education, Workforce and Income Security Issues, GAO; and public
witnesses.
CARBON CAPTURE AND SEQUESTRATION
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held
a hearing entitled "Carbon Capture and Sequestration: An Overview." Testimony
was heard from Thomas D. Shope, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Fossil
Energy, Department of Energy; the following officials of the EPA: William
Wehrum, Acting Assistant Administrator, Office of Air and Radiation; and Ben
Grumbles, Assistant Administrator, Water; S. Julio Friedman, Carbon Management
Program, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory; and public witnesses.
MEDICARE PHYSICIAN PAYMENT SYSTEM
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled "Exploring Options for Improving the Medicare Physician Payment
System." Testimony was heard from Glenn M. Hackbarth, Chairman, Medicare
Payment Advisory Commission; A. Bruce Steinwald, Director, Health Care, GAO;
and public witnesses.
GULF COAST HURRICANE HOUSING RECOVERY ACT OF 2007
Committee on Financial Services: Began markup of H.R. 1227, Gulf Coast
Hurricane Housing Recovery Act of 2007.
Will continue tomorrow.
THE IRANIAN CHALLENGE
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on The Iranian Challenge.
Testimony was heard from R. Nicholas Burns, Under Secretary, Political
Affairs, Department of State.
GLOBAL OPINION OF AMERICAN POLICIES
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on International Organizations,
Human Rights, and Oversight held a hearing on Global Polling Data on Opinion
of American Policies, Values and People. Testimony was heard from a public
witness.
RAIL AND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SECURITY ACT OF 2007
Committee on Homeland Security: Held a hearing on a measure entitled "Rail and
Public Transportation Security Act of 2007." Testimony was heard from Kip
Hawley, Administrator, Transportation Security Agency, Department of Homeland
Secretary; Terri Rosapep, Deputy Associate Administrator, Program Management,
Department of Transportation; Richard Fairfax, Director, Enforcement Programs,
OSHA, Department of Labor; Richard Falkenrath, Deputy Commissioner,
Counterterrorism, Police Department, New York City; Fred Weiderhold, Inspector
General, National Railroad Passenger Corporation (AMTRAK); and public
witnesses.
U.S. ATTORNEY FIRINGS; ISSUANCE OF SUBPOENAS
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
held a hearing on H.R. 580, to amend chapter 35 of title 28, United States
Code, to provide for a 120-day limit to the term of a United States Attorney
appointed on an interim basis by the Attorney General. Testimony was heard
from Representative Issa; Will Moschella, Principal Associate Deputy Attorney
General, Department of Justice; former Representative Asa Hutchinson of
Arkansas; the following former U.S. Attorneys: Daniel Bogden, District of
Nevada; Bud Cummins, Eastern District of Arkansas; David C. Iglesias, District
of New Mexico; John McKay, District of Western Washington; Carol Lam, Southern
District of California; and Paul K. Charlton, District of Arizona.
Prior to the hearing, the Subcommittee met and approved the issuance of
subpoenas to former U.S. Attorneys Daniel Bogden, District of Nevada and Paul
K. Carlton, District of Arizona in conjunction with the hearing on H.R. 580.
CORAL REEF CONSERVATION REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2007
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans
held a hearing on the Coral Reef Conservation Reauthorization Act of 2007.
Testimony was heard from Tim Keeney, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Oceans and
Atmosphere, NOAA, Department of Commerce; David B. Cohen, Deputy Assistant
Secretary, Insular Affairs, Department of the Interior; and public witnesses.
[Page: D271]
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Information
Policy, Census and National Archives approved for full Committee action the
following bills: H.R. 1309, To promote openness in Government by strengthening
section 552 of title 5, United States Code (commonly referred to as the
Freedom of Information Act); and H.R. 1255, To amend chapter 22 of title 44,
United States Code, popularly known as the Presidential Records Act, to
establish procedures for the consideration of claims of constitutionally based
privilege against disclosure of Presidential records.
WATER QUALITY INVESTMENT ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule with a preprinting
requirement. The rule provides 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 569, Water
Qaulity Investment Act of 2007, equally divided and controlled by the Chairman
and Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of
the bill except for clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The rule provides that the
amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure now printed in the bill shall be considered
as an original bill for the purpose of amendment. The rule provides that the
committee amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be considered as read.
The rule makes in order only those amendments to the amendment in the nature
of a substitute that are pre-printed in the Congressional Record or are pro
forma amendments for the purpose of debate. The rule provides that each
amendment printed in the Congressional Record may be offered only by the
Member who caused it to be printed or a designee, and that each amendment
shall be considered as read. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit
with or without instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman Oberstar and
Representatives Mica and Baker.
HEALTHY COMMUNITIES WATER SUPPLY ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule with a preprinting
requirement. The rule provides 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 700, Healthy
Communities Water Supply Act of 2007, equally divided and controlled by the
Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of
the bill except for clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The rule provides that the
bill shall be considered as read.
The rule makes in order only those amendments to the bill that are pre-printed
in the Congressional Record or are pro forma amendments for the purpose of
debate. The rule provides that each amendment printed in the Congressional
Record may be offered only by the Member who caused it to be printed or a
designee, and that each amendment shall be considered as read. Finally, the
rule provides one motion to recommit with or without instructions. Testimony
was heard from Chairman Oberstar and Representatives Mica and Baker.
MEDICARE PAYMENT ADVISORY COMMISSION'S REPORT--SUSTAINABLE GROWTH RATE
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on the
Medicare Payment Advisory Commission's report on the Sustainable Growth Rate.
Testimony was heard from Glenn M. Hackbarth, Chairman, Medicare Payment
Advisory Commission; and public witnesses.
LOW-INCOME FAMILY ASSISTANCE
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Income Security and Family
Support held a hearing on Recent Changes to Programs Assisting Low-Income
Families. Testimony was heard from Sidonie Squier, Director, Office of Family
Assistance, Department of Health and Human Services; Robin Arnold-Williams,
Secretary, Department of Social and Health Services, State of Washington;
David A. Hansell, Acting Commissioner, Department of Temporary Disability
Assistance, State of New York; Nancy K. Ford, Director, Division of Welfare
and Supportive Services, State of Nevada; Mary Dean Harvey, Director,
Department of Human Resources, Division of Family and Children, State of
Georgia; and a public witness.
DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND NATIONAL INTELLIGENCE PROGRAM BUDGET
ROLL-OUT
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Director of National Intelligence (DNI) and National Intelligence
Program (NIP) Budget Roll-out. Testimony was heard from Mike McConnell,
Director of National Intelligence.
[Page D272]
2007/03/07
Daily Digest - Wednesday, March 7, 2007; pages D275 - D286
Committee Meetings
FINANCING RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCES
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Conservation, Credit, Energy, and
Research held a hearing to review the financial structure of renewable energy
resources. Testimony was heard from Thomas C. Dorr, Under Secretary, Rural
Development, USDA; Andy Karsner, Assistant Secretary, Department of Energy;
Kathleen McGinty, Secretary, Department of Environmental Protection, State of
Pennsylvania; and public witnesses.
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Economic and Statistics
Administration/Census Bureau, Bureau of Economic Analysis. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Commerce: Cynthia A.
Glassman, Under Secretary, Economic Affairs, Economics and Statistics
Administration; Charles Louis Kincannon, Director, Census Bureau; Steve
Landefeld, Director, Bureau of Economic Analysis.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on Economic Development
Administration/Minority Business Development Agency. Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the Department of Commerce: Sandy K. Baruah,
Assistant Secretary, Economic Development; and Ronald Langston, National
Director, Minority Business Development Agency.
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing on Walter
Reed Infrastructure. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of the Army: GEN Peter Schoomaker, USA, Chief of Staff; GEN Richard
Cosy, USA, Vice Chief of Staff; and GEN Kevin C. Kiley, USA, Army Surgeon
General.
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services, and General
Government held a hearing on Ensuring the Integrity of Elections. Testimony
was heard from Donetta L. Davidson, Chair, Election Assistance Commission;
Randolph C. Hite, Director, Information Technology Architecture and Systems,
GAO, and public witnesses.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans'
Affairs and Related Agencies held a hearing on Pacific Command. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense: ADM William
J. Fallon, USN, Commander, U.S. Pacific Command; GEN Burwell B. Bell, III,
USAF, Commander, United Nations Command, Commander, Republic of Korea-United
States Combined Fores Command and Commander, United States Forces Korea.
NATIONAL DEFENSE BUDGET REQUEST--PACIFIC COMMAND AND FORCES KOREA
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on the Fiscal Year 2008 National
Defense Authorization Budget Request from the U.S. Pacific Command and U.S.
Forces Korea. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Defense: ADM William J. Fallon, USN, Commander, U.S. Pacific
Command; and GEN Burwell B. Bell, III, USAF, Commander, United Nations
Command, Commander, Republic of Korea-United States Combined Forces Command
and Commander, United States Forces Korea.
AIR LIFT AMD AERIAL REFUELING PROGRAMS
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Air and Land Forces held a
hearing on Air Force and Army airlift and aerial refueling fixed-wing aircraft
programs. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of Defense: LTG C.H. Chandler, USAF, Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations, Plans
and Requirements; LTG Donald J. Hoffman, USAF, Military Deputy, Office of the
Assistant Secretary, Office of the Assistant of the Air Force, Acquisition and
MG Thomas P. Kane, USAF, Director, Strategic Plans, Requirements, and
Programs, Air Mobility Command, all with the U.S. Air Force; and LTG Mark
Curran, USA, Deputy Commander, Training and Doctrine Command; and MG (Select)
Jeffrey Sorenson, USA, Deputy, Systems Command Management, Secretary of the
Army (Acquisition, Logistics and Technology), both with the U.S. Army; William
Solis, Director, Defense Capabilities and Management and Michael Sullivan,
Director, Acquisition and Sourcing Management, both with the GAO; and
Christopher Bolkcom, Specialist in National Defense, CRS, Library of Congress.
CLIMATE CHANGE AND GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held
a hearing entitled "Climate Change: Are Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Human
Activities Contributing to a Warming of the Planet?" Testimony was heard from
public witnesses.
FUTURE OF RADIO
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the
Internet held a hearing entitled "Digital Future of the United States: Part
II-The Future of Radio." Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
GULF COAST HURRICANE HOUSING RELIEF ACT
Committee on Financial Institutions: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 1227,
Gulf Coast Hurricane Housing Recovery Act of 2007.
LATIN AMERICA/CARIBBEAN REMITTANCES
Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Domestic and International
Policy, Trade, and Technology held a hearing entitled "The Role of Remittances
in Leveraging Sustainable Development in Latin America and the Caribbean."
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
SOUTH ASIA OVERVIEW
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on the Middle East and South Asia
held a hearing on A Regional Overview of South Asia. Testimony was heard from
Richard A. Boucher, Assistant Secretary, Bureau of South and Central Asian
Affairs, Department of State.
ELECTION DECEPTION AND IRREGULARITIES
Committee on the Judiciary: Held a hearing on "Protecting the Right to Vote:
Election Deception and Irregularities in Recent Federal Elections." Testimony
was heard from Senators Obama and Cardin; Representatives Loretta Sanchez,
Bilbray, King of Iowa, and Emanuel; and public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R.
162, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve Boundary Adjustment
Act of 2007; H.R. 249, To restore the prohibition on the commercial sale and
slaughter of wild free-roaming horses and burros; H.R. 285, amended, Steel
Industry National Historic Site Act; H.R. 309, amended, To direct the
Secretary of the Interior to establish a demonstration program to facilitate
landscape restoration programs within certain units of the National Park
System established by law to preserve and interpret resources associated with
American history; H.R. 319, amended, Journey Through Hallowed Ground National
Heritage Area Act; H.R. 865, Copper Valley Native Allotment Resolution Act of
2007; and H.R. 886, Wild Sky Wilderness Act of 2007.
COMMITTEE FUNDING RESOLUTION
Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote of 9 to 3, a closed rule, providing
for consideration of H. Res. 202, Providing for the expenses of certain
committees of the House of Representatives in the One Hundred Tenth Congress.
The rule provides 1 hour of general debate equally divided and controlled by
the Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on House
Administration. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of
the resolution. The rule provides that the amendment in the nature of a
substitute recommended by the Committee on House Administration now printed in
the bill, modified by the amendment printed in the report accompanying the
resolution, shall be considered as adopted. Finally, the rule provides one
motion to recommit which may not contain instructions. Testimony was heard
from Representatives Hastings of Washington, Issa and King of Iowa.
ENERGY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT BUDGET
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment
held a hearing on the Department of Energy Fiscal Year 2008 Research and
Development Budget Proposal, Testimony was heard from the following officials
of the Department of Energy: Ray Orbach, Under Secretary, Science; Alexander
Karsner, Assistant Secretary, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy; Thomas
D. Shope, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary; Dennis Spurgeon, Assistant
Secretary, Nuclear Energy; and Kevin Kolevar, Director Office of Electricity
Delivery and Energy Reliability.
TECHNOLOGY AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS INNOVATION
Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing entitled "Advancing the Innovation
Agenda: The Perspective of the Technology and Telecommunications Industry."
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
TRANSIT AND RAIL SECURITY
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Highways and
Transit and the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials
held a joint hearing on Transit and Rail Security. Testimony was heard from
Norman J. Rabkin, Homeland Security and Justice, GAO; Fred Weiderhold,
National Railroad Passenger Corporation (AMTRAK); and public witnesses.
GREAT LAKES AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Water
Resources and Environment held a hearing on the impact of Aquatic Invasive
Species on the Great Lakes. Testimony was heard from Benjamin H. Grumbles,
Assistant Administrator, Water, EPA; and public witnesses.
PERFORMANCE REVIEW
Committee on Veterans Affairs: Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity held a
hearing on Performance Review of Services. Testimony was heard from Charles S.
Ciccolella, Assistant Secretary, Veterans' Employment and Training Service,
Department of Labor; and the following officials of the Department of Veterans
Affairs: Keith M. Wilson, Director, Education Service; Bill Borom, Deputy
Director, Vocal Rehabilitation and Employment; and Keith Pedigo, Director,
Loan Guaranty Service.
ALTERNATIVE MINIMUM TAX
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Select Revenue Measures held a
hearing on the Alternative Minimum Tax. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of the Treasury: Eric Solomon, Assistant
Secretary, Tax Policy; and Nina E. Olson, National Taxpayer Advocate, IRS; and
public witnesses.
HOT SPOTS BRIEFING
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to
receive a briefing on Hot Spots. The Committee was briefed by departmental
witnesses.
2007/03/08
Daily Digest - Thursday, March 8, 2007; pages D288 - D298
Committee Meetings
LIVESTOCK FEED COSTS
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry held a
hearing to review the impact of feed costs on the livestock industry.
Testimony was heard from Chuck Conner, Deputy Secretary, 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 the Food
and Nutrition Service. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
USDA: Nancy Montanez Johner, Under Secretary, and Kate Coler, Deputy Under
Secretary, both with Food Nutrition and Consumer Services; Roberto Salazar,
Administrator, Food and Nutrition Service; Eric Hentges, Executive Director,
Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion; and W. Scott Steele, Budget
Officer.
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and
Related Agencies held a hearing on National Institute of Standards and
Technology. Testimony was heard from William A. Jeffrey, Director, National
Institute of Standards and Technology, Department of Commerce.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on the National Telecommunications and
Information Administration/Patent and Trademark Office. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Commerce: John M. R.
Kneurer, Assistant Secretary, Communications and Information; and Jon W.
Dudas, Under Secretary, Intellectual Property, and Director, U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office.
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development and
Related Agencies held a hearing on the Department of Energy: Environmental
Management, Legacy Management. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Energy: James A. Rispoli, Assistant Secretary,
Environmental Management; and Michael W. Owen, Director, Office of Legacy
Management.
[Page: D294]
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services and General
Government held a hearing on the Supreme Court. Testimony was heard from the
following Associate Justices of the Supreme Court: Anthony M. Kennedy, and
Clarence Thomas.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related
Agencies held a hearing on the Secretary of the Interior. Testimony was heard
from Dirk Kempthorne, Secretary of the Interior.
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education and Related Agencies held a hearing on Administration for Children
and Families. Testimony was heard from Wade Horn, M.D., Assistant Secretary,
Children and Families, Department of Health and Human Services.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative Branch held a hearing
on the U.S. Capitol Police Budget. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the U.S. Capitol Police: Phillip Morse, Chief; and Dan Nichols,
Assistant Chief.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS' AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans
Affairs, and Related Agencies held a hearing on the VA Mental Health Programs
and Initiatives. Testimony was heard from Michael J. Kussman, Acting Under
Secretary, Health, Department of Veterans Affairs.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on VA Homeless Programs. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of Veterans' Affairs:
Peter H. Dougherty, Director, Homeless Veterans Program; and Philip F.
Mangano, Executive Director, U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness.
STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and
Related Programs held a hearing on Foreign Assistance Budget, Foreign Affairs
Restructuring. Testimony was heard from Ambassador Randall L. Tobias,
Administrator, U.S. Agency for International Development and Director, Foreign
Assistance, Department of State.
TRANSPORTATION, HUD, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban
Development, and Related Agencies held a hearing on the Building Sustainable
Communities: Sensible Links between Housing and Transportation. Testimony was
heard from public witnesses.
RECOVERY OBSTACLES FOR WOUNDED SERVICE MEMBERS
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on challenges and obstacles
wounded and injured service members face during recovery. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Defense: David S. C. Chu,
Under Secretary, Personnel and Readiness; William Winkenwerder, Assistant
Secretary, Health Affairs; GEN Peter J. Schoomaker, USA, Chief of Staff, U.S.
Army; and LTG Kevin C. Kiley, USA, The Surgeon General, U.S. Army.
SUBMARINE FORCE STRUCTURE AND ACQUISITION
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Seapower and Expeditionary Forces
held a hearing on submarine force structure and acquisition policy. Testimony
was heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense: VADM John
J. Donnelly, USN, Commander, Submarine Forces; RADM Carl V. Mauney, USN,
Director, Submarine Warfare Division N87; RADM William H. Hilarides, USN,
Program Executive Officer, Submarines; and Allison Stiller, Deputy Assistant
Secretary, Programs, all with the Department of the Navy; Ron O'Rourke, Senior
Naval Analyst, CRS, Library of Congress; and public witnesses.
U.S. STRATEGIC COMMAND POSTURE
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Strategic Forces held a hearing
on the posture of the U.S. Strategic Command. Testimony was heard from GEN
James E. Cartwright, USMC, Commander, U.S. Command, Department of Defense.
HIGHER EDUCATION ACCESS AND FINANCING
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong
Learning and Competitiveness held a hearing on the State of Higher Education:
How Students Access and Finance a College Education. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses.
[Page: D295]
EPA's BUDGET REQUEST
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Environment and Hazardous
Materials and the Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held a joint hearing
entitled "The Environmental Protection Agency's Budget Request for Fiscal Year
2008." Testimony was heard from Stephen L. Johnson, Administrator, EPA.
GENETIC INFORMATION NONDISCRIMINATION ACT
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled "H.R. 493, Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act." Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of Health and Human
Services: Francis S. Collins, M.D., Director, National Human Genome Research
Institute, NIH; and Susan McAndrew, Deputy Director, Health Information
Privacy, Office for Civil Rights; Christopher J. Kuczynski, Assistant Legal
Council and Director, Americans with Disabilities Act Policy Division, EEOC;
Frank Swain, former Chief Counsel, Advocacy, SBA; and public witnesses.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Committee on Financial Services: Held a hearing entitled "Empowering
Shareholders on Executive Compensation: H.R. 1257, Shareholder Vote on
Executive Compensation Act." Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
FOREIGN ASSISTANCE REFORM
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on Foreign Assistance Reform.
Testimony was heard from Randall L. Tobias, Director, U.S. Foreign Assistance
and Administrator, U. S. Agency for International Developmental, Department of
State.
LATIN AMERICAN'S OPINIONS OF THE U.S.
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on International Organizations,
Human Rights, and Oversight and the Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere
held a joint hearing on Polling Data on Latin American Opinion of the United
States Policies, Values and People. Testimony was heard from a public witness.
BORDER SECURITY
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Border, Maritime, and Global
Counterterrorism continued hearings entitled "Border Security: Infrastructure,
Technology, and the Human Element, Part II." Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
PIRACY ON UNIVERSITY NETWORKS
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Courts, the Internet and
Intellectual Property, hearing on "An Update- Piracy on University Networks."
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
RIGHT TO COUNSEL IN CORPORATE INVESTIGATIONS
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland
Security held a hearing on the McNulty Memorandum's Effect on the Right to
Counsel in Corporate Investigations. Testimony was heard from Barry M. Sabin,
Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Department of Justice; and public
witnesses.
WATER AND POWER BUDGET
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Water and Power held an
oversight hearing on the fiscal year 2008 budget requests for the Bureau of
Reclamation, the Federal Power Marketing Administrations, and the Water
Resources division of the U.S. Geological Survey. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of the Interior: Robert Johnson,
Commissioner, Bureau of Reclamation; and Robert Hirsch, Associate Director,
Water, Water Resources Division, U.S. Geological Survey; and the following
Administrators of the Power Administrations, Department of Energy: Steven J.
Wright, Bonneville; Timothy J. Meeks, Western Area; Jon Worthington,
Southeastern; and Michael A. Deihl, Southwestern.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Ordered reported the following
measures: H.R. 1255, amended, Presidential Records Act Amendments of 2007;
H.R. 1254, amended, Presidential Library Donation Reform Act of 2007; H.R.
1309, amended, To promote openness in Government by strengthening section 552
of title 5, United States Code (Commonly referred to as the Freedom of
Information Act); H.R. 1362, amended, Accountability in Contracting Act; H.
Res. 198, Recognizing the significance of Black History Month; H.R. 89,
Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that a day should be
established as Dutch-American Friendship Day to celebrate the historic ties of
the United States and the Netherlands; and H. Res. 136, Commending the Girls
Scouts of the United States of America on the occasion of their 95th
anniversary, for providing quality age-appropriate experiences that prepare
girls to become the leaders of tomorrow and for raising issues important to
girls.
FEDERAL PERSONNEL REFORM
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Federal
Workforce, Postal Service and the District of Columbia held a hearing on the
Status of Federal Personnel Reform. Testimony was heard from Curtis Copeland,
Specialist in American National Government, CRS, Library of Congress; and
public witnesses.
[Page: D296]
WATER QUALITY FINANCING ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a structured rule providing for
consideration of H.R. 720, Water Quality Financing Act of 2007. The rule
provides 1 hour of general debate equally divided and controlled by the
Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of
the bill except for clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The rule provides that the
amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure now printed in the bill, modified by the
amendment printed in Part A of the Rules Committee report, shall be considered
as adopted in the House and in the Committee of the Whole. The bill as amended
shall be considered as an original bill for the purpose of further amendment
and shall be considered as read. The rule waives all points of order against
provisions in the bill as amended, and no further amendments shall be in order
except those amendments printed in Part B of the Rules Committee report
accompanying the resolution.
The rule provides that the further amendments made in order in Part B may be
offered 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 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 except for clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI.
Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit with or without
instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman Oberstar and Representatives
Hirono, Stupak, Mica, Baker, Gary G. Miller of California, Boustany, Tom Davis
of Virginia, Kirk, and King of Iowa.
HIGH SCHOOL LABORATORY EXPERIENCE
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Research and Science
Education held a hearing on Improving the Laboratory Experience for America's
High School Students Testimony was heard from Representative Hinojosa; and
public witnesses.
HOMELAND SECURITY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT BUDGET
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Technology and Innovation
held a hearing on the Department of Homeland Security's R&D Budget Priorities
for Fiscal Year 2008. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Homeland Security: Jay M. Cohen, Under Secretary, Science and
Technology; and Vayl Oxford, Director, Domestic Nuclear Detection Office; and
public witnesses.
DISASTER AND ACCESS TO CAPITAL PROGRAM
Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing to review legislation affecting
the SBA's Disaster and Access to Capital programs. Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the SBA: Herbert L. Mitchell, Associate
Administrator, Disaster Relief; and Michael Hager, Associate Deputy
Administrator, Capital Access; and public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--COAST GUARD BUDGET
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Coast Guard
and Maritime Transportation held an oversight hearing on the Coast Guard
Budget and Authorization for Fiscal Year 2008. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Homeland Security: ADM Thad W. Allen,
USCG, Commandant; and Charles W. Bowen, USCG, Master Chief Petty Officer, both
with the U.S. Coast Guard; and Richard L. Skinner, Inspector General; and
Steven Caldwell, Director, Homeland Security and Justice Issues, GAO.
SERVICE MEMBERS TRANSITION TO CIVILIAN LIFE
Committee on Veterans Affairs: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
held a hearing on Service Members Seamless Transition into Civilian Life--The
Heroes Return. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Veterans Affairs: Michael J. Kussman, M.D., Acting Under
Secretary, Health; William F. Feeley, Deputy Under Secretary, Health for
Operations and Management; Edward Huycke M.D., Veterans Health
Administration/Department of Defense Coordination Office; Ira Katz, M.D.,
Director, Mental Health Services; Shane McNamee, M.D., Director, Polytrauma
Center, VA Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia; Steven Scott, M.D., Director,
Polytrauma Center, VA Medical Center, Tampa, Florida; and Kathy Dinegar and
Sherry Edmonds-Clemons, both Socialworker Liaisons for Seamless Transition,
Walter. Reed Medical Center/Bethesda Naval Hospital; Cynthia Bascetta,
Director, Health Care, GAO; and public witnesses.
MEDICARE PROGRAM INTEGRITY
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health and the Subcommittee on
Oversight held a joint hearing on Medicare Program Integrity. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of Health and Human
Services: Daniel R. Levinson, Inspector General; and Tim Hill, Director,
Office of Financial Management, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services;
and R. Alexander Acosta, U.S. Attorney, Southern District of Florida.
[Page: D297]
MILITARY INTELLIGENCE PROGRAM BUDGET OVERVIEW
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Military Intelligence Program (MIP) Budget Overview. Testimony was
heard from departmental witnesses.
2007/03/09
Daily Digest - Friday, March 9, 2007; pages D300 - D310
Committee Meetings
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and
Related Agencies held a hearing on NASA Overview. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses.
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security held a hearing
on Preparing for Disasters, Natural or Otherwise. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Homeland Security: Roger T. Rufe,
Jr., Director, Operations Coordination; and R. David Paulison, Director, FEMA
and Under Secretary, Federal Emergency Management; William O. Jenkins,
Director, Homeland Security and Justice Issues, GAO; and public witnesses.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on U.S. Geological Survey. Testimony was heard
from Mark Myers, Director, U.S. Geological Survey, Department of the Interior.
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education, and Related Agencies held a hearing on (Panel I) Centers for
Disease Control/(Panel II) Emergency Preparedness: Office of the Secretary,
Centers for Disease Control, NIH. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Health and Human Services: Julie L. Gerberding,
M.D., Director, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Anthony Fauci,
M.D., Director, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH;
and Gerald W. Parker, M.D., Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Office of
the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response.
[Page: D305]
FRAUDULENT PHONE RECESS ACCESS PREVENTION
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Held a hearing entitled "Combating
Pretexting: H.R. 936, Prevention of Fraudulent Access to Phone Records Act."
Testimony was heard from Lydia Parnes, Director, Bureau of Consumer
Protection, FTC; Thomas Navin, Chief, Wireline Bureau, FCC; and public
witnesses.
SECTION 8 VOUCHER REFORM
Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Housing and Community
Opportunity held a hearing entitled "The Section 8 Voucher Reform Act."
Testimony was heard from Orlando J. Cabrera, Assistant Secretary, Public and
Indian Housing, Department of Housing and Urban Development; and public
witnesses.
2007/03/12
Daily Digest - Monday, March 12, 2007; pages D311 - D316
Committee Meetings
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education and Related Agencies held a hearing on the Secretary of Education.
Testimony was heard from Margaret Spellings, Secretary of Education.
SELECT INTELLIGENCE OVERSIGHT
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Select Intelligence Oversight met
in executive session to hold a hearing on the CIA Budget. Testimony was heard
from departmental witnesses.
GSE REFORM--LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS
Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Capital Markets, Insurance,
and Government Sponsored Enterprises held a hearing entitled "Legislative
Proposals on GSE Reform." Testimony was heard from John R. Price, President
and CEO, Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh, Federal Housing Finance Board;
and public witnesses.
2007/03/13
Daily Digest - Tuesday, March 13, 2007; pages D317 - D326
Committee Meetings
FOOD STAMP PROGRAM REVIEW--IMPACT ON CHILDREN'S HEALTH
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Department Operations, Oversight,
Nutrition and Forestry held a hearing to review the federal food stamp program
and its impact on children's health. Testimony was heard from Nancy
Montanez-Johner, Under Secretary, Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services, 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 Secretary
of Agriculture. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the USDA:
Chuck Conner, Deputy Secretary; Keith Collins, Chief Economist; and Scott
Steele, Budget Officer.
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and
Related Agencies on NASA. Testimony was heard from Michael D. Griffin,
Administrator, NASA.
Hearings continue tomorrow.
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Testimony was
the following officials of the Department of the Army: John Paul Woodley,
Assistant Secretary, Civil Works; and LTG Carl A. Strock, USA, Chief of
Engineers.
[Page: D322]
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security held a hearing
on the Secret Service. Testimony was heard from Mark Sullivan, Director, U.S.
Secret Service, Department of Homeland Security.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related
Agencies held a hearing on Arts Panel. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on the Social and Economic Status of
Native Americans, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of the Special Trustee.
Testimony was heard from a public witness.
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education and Related Agencies held a hearing on Department of Education:
Elementary and Secondary Education, and Special Education and Rehabilitation
Services. Testimony was heard from Raymond Simon, Deputy Secretary, Department
of Education.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative Branch held a hearing
on Capitol Visitor Center. Testimony was heard from Stephen T. Ayers, Acting
Architect of the Capitol; Terry Dorn, Director, Physical Infrastructure
Issues, GAO; Robert Hixon, Project Executive; and Douglas Jacobs, Design
Manager, both with the Capitol Visitor Center.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS' AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans'
Affairs, and Related Agencies held a hearing on the Navy Budget. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of the Navy: ADM Michael
G. Mullen, USN, Chief of Naval Operations; and GEN James T. Conway, USMC,
Commandant, U.S. Marine Corps.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on the Veterans' Claims Process.
Testimony was heard from William Greene, Chief Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals
for Veterans Claims; and Daniel L. Cooper, Under Secretary, Benefits,
Department of Veterans' Affairs.
STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and
Related Programs held a hearing on the Millenium Challenge Account. Testimony
was heard from Ambassador John Danilovich, CEO, Millenium Challenge Corp.
TRANSPORTATION, AND HUD, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation, and Housing and
Urban Development, and Related Agencies held a hearing on the Status of Public
Housing and HOPE VI. Testimony was heard from Orlando J. Cabrera, Assistant
Secretary, Public and Indian Housing, Department of Housing and Urban
Development.
ACCOUNTABILITY IN CONTRACTING ACT
Committee on Armed Services: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 1362,
Accountability in Contracting Act.
MILITARY RESALE PROGRAMS REVIEW
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Military Personnel held a hearing
on overview of military resale programs. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Defense: Michael L. Dominguez,
Principal Deputy Secretary, Personnel and Readiness; MG Paul Essex, USAF,
Commander, Army and Air Force Exchange Service; RADM Robert E. Cowley, III,
USN, Commander, Navy Exchange Service Command; Patrick B. Nixon, Director and
CEO, Defense Commissary Agency; and Michael P. Downs, Director, Personal and
Family Readiness Division, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps.
READINESS NEEDS
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Readiness held a hearing on the
adequacy of the Fiscal Year 2008 National Defense Authorization Budget Request
to meet readiness needs. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the Department of Defense: GEN Richard Cody, USA, Vice Chief of Staff,
Department of the Army; GEN John D. W. Corley, USAF, Vice Chief of Staff,
Department of the Air Force; GEN Robert Magnus, USMC, Assistant Commandant,
U.S. Marine Corps; and ADM Robert F. Willard, USN, Vice Chief of Naval
Operations, Department of the Navy.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health approved for full
Committee the following bills: H.R. 477, Stroke Treatment and Ongoing
Prevention Act; H.R. 727, amended, Trauma Care Systems Planning and
Development Act of 2007; H.R. 545, amended, Native American Methamphetamine
Enforcement and Treatment Act of 2007; H.R. 1132, amended, National Breast and
Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program Reauthorization Act of 2007; and H.R.
493, amended, Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2007.
[Page: D323]
POST KATRINA HEALTH CARE
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
held a hearing entitled "Post Katrina Health Care: Continuing Concerns and
Immediate Needs in the New Orleans Region." Testimony was heard from Leslie
Norwalk, Acting Administrator, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services,
Department of Health and Human Services; Fred Cerise, M.D., Secretary,
Department of Health and Hospitals, State of Louisiana; and the following
officials of the Department of Health, City of New Orleans: Kevin U. Stephens,
M.D., Director; and Evangeline R. Franklin, M.D., Director, Clinical Services
and Employee Health; and public witnesses.
HEDGE FUNDS AND SYSTEMIC RISK IN FINANCIAL MARKETS
Committee on Financial Services: Held a hearing entitled "Hedge Funds and
Systemic Risk in the Financial Markets." Testimony was heard from E. Gerald
Corrigan, former President, Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Federal Reserve
System; and public witnesses.
TIBET; STATE OF SINO-TIBETAN DIALOGUE
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on Tibet: Status of the
Sino-Tibetan Dialogue. Testimony was heard from Paula J. Dobriansky, Under
Secretary, Democracy and Global Affairs, Department of State; and public
witnesses.
HAITI'S DEVELOPMENT NEEDS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere held a
hearing on Haiti's Development Needs. Testimony was heard from Adolfo A.
Franco, Assistant Administrator, Bureau for Latin America and the Caribbean,
U.S. Agency for International Development, Department of State.
RAIL AND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SECURITY ACT OF 2007
Committee on Homeland Security: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 1401, Rail
and Public Transportation Security Act of 2007.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife, and
Oceans held a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 50, Multinational Species
Conservation Funds Reauthorization Act of 2007; and H.R. 465, Asian Elephant
Conservation Reauthorization Act of 2007. Testimony was heard from Kenneth
Stansell, Acting Deputy Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department
of the Interior.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSE VOTING RIGHTS ACT OF 2007
Committee on Oversight and Reform: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 1433,
District of Columbia House Voting Rights Act of 2007.
WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 9 to 4, a structured rule providing
for consideration of H.R. 985, Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act of
2007. The rule provides 1 hour and 20 minutes of general debate, with 1 hour
equally divided and controlled by the Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of
the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform and 20 minutes equally
divided and controlled by the Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the
Committee on Homeland Security. The rule waives all points of order against
consideration of the bill except those arising under clauses 9 and 10 of Rule
XXI. The rule provides that an amendment in the nature of a substitute
consisting of the text of the bill, modified by the amendments recommended by
the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform now printed in the bill,
shall be considered as an original bill for the purpose of amendment.
The rule waives all points of order against the amendments printed in the
report except for those arising under clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. Finally,
the rule provides one motion to recommit with or without instructions.
Testimony was heard from Chairman Waxman and Representatives Tom Davis of
Virginia, Shays and King of Iowa.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY LEADERSHIP IN A 21ST CENTURY GLOBAL ECONOMY
Committee on Science and Technology: Held a hearing on Science and Technology
Leadership in a 21st Century Global Economy. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
U.S./MEXICAN TRUCKING SAFETY
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Highways and
Transit held a hearing on U.S./Mexican Trucking: Safety and the Cross Border
Demonstration Project. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Transportation: John H. Hill, Administrator, Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Administration; and Calvin L. Scovel, III, Inspector General;
and public witnesses.
[Page: D324]
VETERANS' MEASURES
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and
Memorial Affairs approved for full Committee action the following bills: H.R.
797, Dr. James Allen Veteran Vision Equity Act; and H.R. 1284, Veterans'
Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2007.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on the Impact of OIF/OEF on the VA Claims
Process. Testimony was heard from Dan Bertoni, Acting Director--Education,
Workforce, and Income Security Issues, GAO; Ronald R. Aument, Deputy Under
Secretary, Benefits, Department of Veterans Affairs; and public witnesses.
VETERANS' MEASURES
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Health approved for full
Committee action the following bills: H.R. 612, Returning Servicemember VA
Healthcare Insurance Act of 2007; and H.R. 327, Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide
Prevention Act.
KATRINA REDEVELOPMENT TAX ISSUES
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Oversight held a hearing on
Katrina Redevelopment Tax Issues. Testimony was heard from Milton Bailey,
President Housing Finance Agency, State of Louisiana; and a public witness.
FACILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Facilities and Infrastructures. Testimony was heard from
departmental witnesses.
2007/03/14
Daily Digest - Wednesday, March 14, 2007; pages D328 - D336
Committee Meetings
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and
Related Agencies continued hearings on NASA. Testimony was heard from Michael
D. Griffin, Administrator, NASA.
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Science Research. Testimony was heard from
Raymond L. Orbach, Under Secretary, Science, Department of Energy.
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services and General
Government held a hearing on the National Archives and Records Administration.
Testimony was heard from Allen Weinstein, Archivist of the United States.
HOMELAND SECURITY
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security held a hearing
on Gulf Coast Rebuilding. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the Department of Homeland Security: Donald Powell, Federal Gulf Coast
Coordinator; Gil Jamieson, Deputy Director, Gulf Coast Rebuilding; FEMA; and
Matt Jadacki, Deputy Inspector General.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on the Bureau of Land Management. Testimony
was heard from James M. Hughes, Acting Director, Bureau of Land Management,
Department of the Interior.
[Page: D332]
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Department of Education:
Student Financial Aid, Higher Education, Institute of Education Sciences.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
Education: Sarah Martinez Tucker, Under Secretary; and Grover J. Whitehurst,
Director, Institute of Education Sciences.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS' AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans'
Affairs, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Long-Term Challenges for
Military Construction and Budget Overview. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Defense: Tina W. Jonas, Under
Secretary, (Comptroller)/Chief Financial Officer; Phil Grone, Deputy
Secretary, Installations and Environment; and Ryan Henry, Principal Deputy
Under Secretary, Policy.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on VA Research. Testimony was heard from
Joel Kupersmith, Chief Research and Development Officer, Department of
Veterans Affairs.
TRANSPORTATION, HUD, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban
Development, and Related Agencies held a hearing on the Secretary of
Transportation. Testimony was heard from Mary Peters, Secretary of
Transportation.
HARNESSING TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Terrorism, Unconventional Threats
and Capabilities held a hearing on harnessing technology innovation:
challenges and opportunities. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
IMPROVING HEAD START ACT OF 2007
Committee on Education and Labor: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 1429,
Improving Head Start Act of 2007.
CLIMATE CHANGE AND ENERGY SECURITY
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held
a hearing entitled "Climate Change and Energy Security: Perspectives From the
Automobile Industry." Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
FCC OVERSIGHT
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the
Internet held a hearing entitled "Oversight of the Federal Communications
Commission." Testimony was heard from the following officials of the FCC:
Kevin J. Martin, Chairman; Michael J. Copps, Jonathan S. Adelstein, Deborah
Taylor Tate and Robert M. McDowell, all Commissioners.
OVERSIGHT--DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
Committee on Financial Services: Held an oversight hearing of the Department
of Housing and Urban Development. Testimony was heard from Alphonso Jackson,
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.
RED CROSS GOVERNANCE REFORM
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on the American Red Cross
Governance Reform. Testimony was heard from Bonnie McElveen-Hunter,
Chairwoman, American Red Cross; and a public witness.
GLOBAL OPINION OF THE U.S.
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on International Organizations,
Human Rights, and Oversight held a hearing on Global Polling Data on Opinion
of American Policies, Values and People. Testimony was heard from a public
witness.
EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS GRANTS
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Emergency Communication,
Preparedness, and Response held a hearing entitled "Public Safety
Interoperable Communications Grants: Are the Departments of Homeland Security
and Commerce Effectively Coordinating To Meet Our Nation's Emergency
Communications Needs?" Testimony was heard from Corey Gruber, Acting Assistant
Secretary, Grants and Training, Department of Homeland Security; John M. R.
Kneuer, Assistant Secretary, Communications and Information, National
Telecommunications and Information Administration, Department of Commerce; and
Deputy Chief Charles Dowd, Commanding Officer, Communications Division, New
York Police Department.
NUCLEAR THREAT DETECTION TECHNOLOGY
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Emerging Threats,
Cybersecurity and Science and Technology held a hearing entitled "Countering
the Nuclear Threat to the Homeland: Evaluating the Procurement of Radiation
Detection Technologies." Testimony was heard from Vayl Oxford, Director,
Domestic Nuclear Detection Office, Department of Homeland Security; and Gene
Aloise, Director, Natural Resources and Environment, GAO.
[Page: D333]
SECURITY INFORMATION SHARING AND CIVIL LIBERTIES
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Intelligence, Information
Sharing, and Terrorism Risk Assessment held a hearing entitled "The Department
of Homeland Security State and Local Fusion Center Program: Advancing
Information Sharing While Safeguarding Civil Liberties." Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Homeland Security: Charles
E. Allen, Chief Intelligence Officer, Office of Intelligence and Analysis;
Daniel W. Sutherland, Officer for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties; and Hugo
Teufel, Privacy Officer.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSE VOTING RIGHTS ACT OF 2007
Committee on the Judiciary: Held a hearing on H.R. 1433, District of Columbia
House Voting Rights Act of 2007. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
INDIAN HEALTH CARE IMPROVEMENT ACT EXTENSION
Committee on Natural Resources: Held a hearing on H.R. 1328, To amend the
Indian Health Care Improvement Act to revise and extend that Act. Testimony
was heard from Charles W. Grim, M.D., Director, Indian Health Service,
Department of Health and Human Services; and public witnesses.
ACCOUNTABILITY IN CONTRACTING ACT
Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a structured rule providing for
consideration of H.R. 1362, Accountability in Contracting Act. The rule
provides 80 minutes of general debate, 1 hour equally divided and controlled
by the Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Oversight and
Government Reform and 20 minutes equally divided and controlled by the
Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Armed Services. The
rule waives all points of order against consideration of the bill except for
clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The rule provides that in lieu of the amendments
recommended by the Committees on Oversight and Government Reform and Armed
Services now printed in the bill, the amendment in the nature of a substitute
printed in Part A of the Rules Committee report accompanying the resolution
shall be considered as an original bill for the purpose of amendment and shall
be considered as read. The rule waives all points of order against the
amendment in the nature of a substitute except clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI.
The rule makes in order only those amendments to the amendment in the nature
of a substitute printed in Part B of the Rules Committee report accompanying
the resolution. The rule provides that the amendments printed in Part B of the
report may be offered 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 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 except for clauses 9 and 10
of Rule XXI. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit with or without
instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman Waxman and Representatives Tom
Davis of Virginia and Ginny Brown-Waite of Florida.
EPA's RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT BUDGET PROPOSAL FISCAL YEAR 2007
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment
held a hearing on the Environmental Protection Agency Fiscal Year 2008
Research and Development Budget Proposal. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the EPA: George Gray, Assistant Administrator, Research
and Development; and M. Granger Morgan, Chair, EPA's Science Advisory Board;
and public witnesses.
SMALL BUSINESS HEALTH INSURANCE
Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing entitled "Challenges and Solutions
to Health Insurance Coverage for Small Businesses." Testimony was heard from
public witnesses.
FAA'S REAUTHORIZATION PROPOSAL
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation, held
a hearing on the Administration's Federal Aviation Administration
Reauthorization Proposal. Testimony was heard from Marion C. Blakey,
Administrator, FAA, Department of Transportation.
WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT OF 2007
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Water
Resources and Environment approved for full Committee action H.R. 1495, Water
Resources Development Act of 2007.
[Page: D334]
MINIMUM WAGE BILL REVENUE INCREASES
Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing on the Revenue Increasing Measures
in the Small Business and Work Opportunity Act of 2007. Testimony was heard
from former Representative Kenneth E. Bensen, Jr., of Texas; and public
witnesses.
GENETIC NON-DISCRIMINATION
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on Genetic
Non-Discrimination. Testimony was heard from Francis Collins, M.D., Director,
National Human Genome Research Institute, NIH, Department of Health and Human
Services; and public witnesses.
2007/03/15
Daily Digest - Thursday, March 15, 2007; pages D338 - D350
Committee Meetings
EMERGENCY SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS FISCAL YEAR 2007
Committee on Appropriations: Ordered reported, as amended, the Emergency
Supplemental Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2007.
The Committee also approved the Report on the Revised Suballocation of Budget
Allocations for Fiscal Year 2007.
EUROPEAN COMMAND; JOINT FORCES COMMAND BUDGET
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on the Fiscal Year 2008 National
Defense Authorization Budget Request from the U.S. European Command and Joint
Forces Command. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Defense: GEN Bantz J. Craddock, USA, Commander, U.S. European
Command, NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe; and GEN Lance Smith, USAF,
Commander, U.S. Joint Forces Command, NATO Supreme Allied Commander for
Transformation.
[Page: D343]
MILITARY ADVOCACY/BENEFICARY GROUPS
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Military Personnel continued
hearings on views of military advocacy and beneficiary groups. Testimony was
heard from public witnesses.
SHIP CONSTRUCTION LOAN GUARANTEE PROGRAM
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Seapower and Expeditionary Forces
held a hearing on the Federal ship construction loan guarantee program.
Testimony was heard from Sean Connaughton, Administrator, Maritime
Administration, Department of Transportation; and public witnesses.
EMPLOYER-PROVIDED HEALTH BENEFITS
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor
and Pensions held a hearing on Examining Innovative Approaches to Covering the
Uninsured Through Employer-Provided Health Benefits. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R.
251, amended, Truth in Caller ID Act of 2007; H.R. 477, amended, Stroke
Treatment and Ongoing Prevention Act; H.R. 727, Trauma Care Systems Planning
and Development Act of 2007; H.R. 545, Native American Methamphetamine
Enforcement and Treatment Act of 2007; and H.R. 1132, amended, National Breast
and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program Reauthorization Act of 2007.
COMBATING SPYWARE
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and
Consumer Protection held a hearing entitled "Combating Spyware: The Spy Act."
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
CLIMATE CHANGE: STATE AND LOCAL PERSPECTIVES
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held
a hearing entitled "Climate Change: State and Local Perspectives." Testimony
was heard from Lisa P. Jackson, Commissioner, Department of Environmental
Protection, State of New Jersey; Linda Adams, Secretary, Environmental
Protection Agency, State of California; Julie Caruthers Parsley, Commissioner,
Public Utility Commission, State of Texas; Ron Curry, Secretary, Environment
Department, State of New Mexico; and Patrick McCrory, Mayor, City of
Charlotte, North Carolina.
LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS--GSE REFORM
Committee on Financial Services: Held a hearing entitled "Legislative
Proposals on GSE Reform." Testimony was heard from Robert Steel, Under
Secretary, Domestic Finance, Department of the Treasury; the following
officials of the Department of Housing and Urban Development: James B.
Lockhart, III, Director, Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight; and
L. Carter Carnick, General Deputy Assistant Secretary, Department of Housing
and Urban Development; and public witnesses.
U.S. POLICY TOWARD SOUTH PACIFIC ISLANDS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, and the
Global Environment held a hearing on U.S. Policy Toward South Pacific Island
Nations, Including Australia and New Zealand. Testimony was heard from Glyn
Davies, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs,
Department of State.
U.S.-TURKISH RELATIONS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Europe held a hearing on
U.S.-Turkish Relations and the Challenges Ahead. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of State: Daniel Fried, Assistant
Secretary, Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs; and GEN Joseph W. Ralston
USAF (Ret.), Special Envoy, Countering the Kurdistan Worker's Party; and Dan
Fata, Deputy Assistant Secretary, European and NATO Affairs, Department of
Defense.
IRANIAN NUCLEAR CRISIS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Terrorism, Nonproliferation, and
Trade, and the Subcommittee on the Middle East and South Asia held a joint
hearing on Iranian Nuclear Crisis: Latest Developments and Next Steps.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
FEMA DISASTER RESPONSE
Committee on Homeland Security: Held a hearing entitled "Disaster
Declarations: Where Is FEMA in a Time of Need?" Testimony was heard from VADM
Harvey Johnson, USCG, Deputy Director, FEMA, Department of Homeland Security;
Mike Beebe, Governor, State of Arkansas; and Bruce Baughman, Director,
Emergency Management Agency, State of Alabama.
[Page: D344]
BORDER CROSSINGS; IMMIGRANTS AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Border, Maritime, and Global
Counterterrorism held a hearing entitled "Crossing the Border: Immigrants in
Detention and Victims of Trafficking." Testimony was heard from John P.
Torres, Director, Office of Detention and Removal Operations, Immigration and
Customs Enforcement, Department of Homeland Security; and public witnesses.
ELECTION REFORM
Committee on House Administration: Subcommittee on Elections held a hearing on
Election Reform "Machines and Software." Testimony was heard from Eric Clark,
Secretary of State, Mississippi; and a public witnesses.
Hearings continue March 20.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on the Judiciary: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 580,
amended, To amend chapter 35 of title 28, United States Code, to provide for a
120-day limit to the term of a United States attorney appointed on an interim
basis by the Attorney General; H.R. 1433, District of Columbia House Voting
Rights Act of 2007; and pending Committee business.
The Committee also approved pending Committee business.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and
Public Lands held a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 713, Niagara Falls
National Heritage Area Act; H.R. 754, To designate the National Museum of
Wildlife Art, located at 2820 Rungius Road, Jackson, Wyoming, as the National
Museum of Wildlife Art of the United States; and H.R. 929, Land Between the
Rivers Southern Illinois National Heritage Area Act of 2007. Testimony was
heard from Representatives Slaughter and Cubin; Janet Snyder Matthews,
Associate Director, Cultural Resources, National Park Service, Department of
the Interior; and public witnesses.
NASA's FISCAL YEAR 2008 BUDGET REQUEST
Committee on Science and Technology: Held a hearing on NASA's Fiscal Year 2008
Budget Request. Testimony was heard from Michael Griffin, Administrator, NASA.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Small Business: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 1361,
RECOVER Act; H.R. 1332, amended, Small Business Lending Improvements Act of
2007; and H.R. 1468, Disadvantages Business Disaster Eligibility Act.
WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT OF 2007
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Ordered reported, as amended,
H.R. 1495, Water Resources Development Act of 2007.
The Committee also approved pending Committee business.
VETERANS MEASURES
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R.
327, Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide Prevention Act; H.R. 797, amended, Dr.
James Allen Veteran Vision Equity Act; and H.R. 1284, Veterans' Compensation
Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2007.
TRAUMATIC BRAIN AND POLY-TRAUMA CENTERS
Committee on Veterans Affairs: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on
Traumatic Brain and Poly-trauma Centers. Testimony was heard from Barbara
Sigford, National Program Director, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation,
Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs;
representatives of veterans organizations; and public witnesses.
AMERICAN WORKERS--ECONOMIC SECURITY
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Income Security and Family
Support held a hearing on Increasing Economic Security for American Workers.
Testimony was heard from former Secretary of Labor Robert B. Reich; and public
witnesses.
NONMARKET ECONOMY TRADE REMEDY ACT
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Trade held a hearing on H.R.
1229, Nonmarket Economy Trade Remedy Act of 2007. Testimony was heard from
Representative Visclosky; David M. Spooner, Assistant Secretary, Import
Administration, International Trade Administration; and public witnesses.
CIA BRIEFING; GEOSPATIAL INTELLIGENCE
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to
receive a CIA briefing. The Committee was briefed by departmental witnesses.
The Committee also met in executive session to hold a hearing on Geospatial
Intelligence. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
2007/03/16
Daily Digest - Friday, March 16, 2007; pages D351 - D352
Committee Meetings
WHITE HOUSE PROCEDURES FOR SAFEGUARDING CLASSIFIED INFORMATION
Committee on Oversight and Reform: Held a hearing on White House Procedures
for Safeguarding Classified Information. Testimony was heard from James
Knodell, Director, Office of Security, Executive Office of the President; J.
William Leonard, Director, Information Security Oversight Office, National
Archives and Records Administration; Valerie Plame Wilson, former Employee,
CIA; and public witnesses.
[Page: D352]
2007/03/19
Daily Digest - Monday, March 19, 2007; pages D353 - D358
Committee Meetings
FINANCIAL SERVICES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Institutions held a
hearing on OMB. Testimony was heard from Robert J. Portman, Director, OMB.
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, HHS, Education, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Employment and Training
Administration/Office of Job Corps/Veterans Training/Vocational and Adult
Education. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of Education: Emily Stover DeRocco, Assistant Secretary, Employment and
Training Administration; Esther R. Johnson, Director, Office of Job Corps; and
Troy Justesen, Assistant Secretary, Vocational and Adult Education; and
Charles S. Ciccolella, Assistant Secretary, Veterans' Training Administration,
Department of Labor.
SELECT INTELLIGENCE OVERSIGHT
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Intelligence Oversight met in
executive session to hold a hearing on National Reconnaissance Office Budget.
Testimony was heard from Donald Kerr, Director, National Reconnaissance
Office, Department of Defense.
CLIMATE CHANGE SCIENCE INTERFERENCE
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Held a hearing on Allegations of
Political Interference with Government Climate Change Science. Testimony was
heard from James Connaughton, Chairman, Council on Environmental Quality;
James Hansen, Director, Goddard Institute for Space Studies, NASA; Philip
Cooney, former Chief of Staff, Council on Environmental Quality; George
Deutsch, former Public Affairs Officer, NASA; and a public witness.
GULF COAST HURRICANE HOUSING RECOVERY ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules, Granted, by voice vote, a structured rule for
consideration of H.R. 1227, Gulf Coast Hurricane Housing Recovery Act of 2007.
The rule provides one hour of general debate equally divided and controlled by
the Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Financial
Services. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the
bill except for clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The rule provides that the
amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on
Financial Services, modified by the amendment printed in Part A of the Rules
Committee report, shall be considered as adopted in the House and in the
Committee of the Whole. The bill as amended shall be considered as an original
bill for the purpose of further amendment and shall be considered as read. The
rule waives all points of order against provisions in the bill as amended, and
no further amendments shall be in order except those amendments printed in
Part B of the Rules Committee report accompanying the resolution.
[Page: D356]
The rule provides that the further amendments made in order in Part B may be
offered 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 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 except for clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI.
Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit with or without
instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman Frank of Massachusetts,
Representatives Corrine Brown of Florida, Biggert and Neugebauer.
2007/03/20
Daily Digest - Tuesday, March 20, 2007; pages D360 - D370
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
and Economics. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the USDA:
Gale Buchanan, Under Secretary; Education and Economics; Merle D. Pierson,
Deputy Under Secretary, Research Education and Economics; Edward B. Knipling,
Administrator, Agriculture Research Service; Colien Hefferan, Administrator,
Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service; Katherine Smith,
Acting Administrator, Economic Research Service; R. Ronald Bosecker,
Administrator, National Agricultural Statistics Service; and W. Scott Steele,
Budget Officer.
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Equal Employment Opportunities Commission.
Testimony was heard from Naomi C. Earp, Chair, EEOC.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on International Trade
Administration/Bureau of Industry and Security. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Commerce: Franklin L. Lavin, Under
Secretary, International Trade; and Mark Foulon, Acting Under Secretary,
Bureau of Industry and Security.
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Department of Energy: Energy Supply and
Conservation/Fossil Energy/Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Energy:
Alexander Karsner, Assistant Secretary, Energy Efficiency and Renewable
Energy; Kevin M. Kolevar, Director, Electricity and Energy Reliability; and
Thomas D. Shope, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Fossil Energy.
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security held a hearing
on Determining Critical Infrastructure and How To Protect It. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of Homeland Security:
George Foresman, Under Secretary, National Protection and Programs
Directorate; Robert Stephan, Assistant Secretary, Infrastructure Protection,
and Gregory Garcia, Assistant Secretary, Cyber Security and Communications;
Eileen Larence, Director, Homeland Security and Justice Issues; and David
Powner, Director, IT Management Issues, both with GAO.
INTERIOR AND ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior and Environment, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on the National Endowment for the
Humanities/National Endowment for the Arts. Testimony was heard from Bruce
Cole, Chairman, National Endowment for the Humanities; and Dana Gioia,
Chairman, National Endowment for the Arts.
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education and Related Agencies held a hearing on Worker Protection Agencies.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Labor:
Mark Wilson, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Employment Standards Administration;
Bradford P. Campbell, Acting Assistant Secretary, Employee Benefits Security
Administration; Edwin G. Foulke, Assistant Secretary, OSHA; James Carter,
Deputy Under Secretary, Bureau of International Labor Affairs; and Richard E.
Stickler, Assistant Secretary, Mine Safety and Health.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative Branch held a hearing
on Library of Congress: Future of Digital Libraries. Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the Library of Congress: James H, Billington,
Librarian of Congress; JoAnn C. Jenkins, Chief Operating Officer, Office of
the Librarian; Deanna Marcum, Associate Librarian, Library Services; Laura
Campbell, Associate Librarian, Strategic Initiatives; Rubens Medina, Law
Librarian; Marybeth Peters, Register of Copyrights; and Daniel P. Mulhollan,
Director, CRS.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS' AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans'
Affairs, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Base Realignment and Closure.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense:
Phil Grone, Deputy Under Secretary, Installations and Environment; Keith
Eastin, Assistant Secretary, Army, for Installations and Environment; B.J.
Penn, Assistant Secretary, Navy, Installations and Environment; and William C.
Anderson, Assistant Secretary, Air Force, Installations, Environment and
Logistics.
[Page: D366]
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on VA Long-Term Health/Nursing Home Care.
Testimony was heard from Michael J. Kussman, M.D., Acting Under Secretary,
Health, Department of Veterans' Affairs.
WOUNDED WARRIOR ASSISTANCE ACT OF 2007
Committee on Armed Services: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 1538, Wounded
Warrior Assistance Act of 2007.
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION REQUESTS--BASE CLOSURES/FACILITIES MAINTENANCE
BUDGET.
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Readiness held a hearing on the
Fiscal Year 2008 National Defense Authorization Budget Requests for military
construction, family housing, base closures and facilities' operations and
maintenance. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Defense: Philip Grone, Deputy Under Secretary, Installations and
Environment; Keith Eastin, Assistant Secretary, Army, Installations and
Environment; B.J. Penn, Assistant Secretary, Navy, Installations and
Environment; and William C. Anderson, Assistant Secretary, Air Force,
Installations, Environment and Logistics.
SHIPYARD MODERNIZATION/SHIP COST REDUCTION
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Seapower and Expeditionary Forces
held a hearing on U.S. shipyard modernization initiatives and ship cost
reduction. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of the Navy: VADM Paul Sullivan, USN, Commander, Naval Sea Systems Command;
Allison Stiller, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Ship Programs; RADM Charles
Goddard, USN, Program Executive Officer, Ships; RADM David Architzel, USN,
Program Executive Officer, Carriers; and RADM William Hilirades, USN, Program
Executive Officer, Submarines; and public witnesses.
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION BUDGET REQUEST--ATOMIC ENERGY DEFENSE
ACTIVITIES
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Strategic Forces held a hearing
on the Fiscal Year 2008 National Defense Authorization Budget Request for the
Department of Energy's atomic energy defense activities. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Energy: Thomas P.
D'Agostino, Acting Administrator, National Nuclear Security Administration;
James Rispoli, Assistant Secretary, Environmental Management; and Glenn
Podonsky, Director, Office of Health, Safety and Security.
CLIMATE CHANGE--UTILITY CEO'S VIEWS
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held
a hearing on Climate Change: Perspectives of Utility CEOs. Testimony was heard
from public witnesses.
INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTE IMPORTATION AND MANAGEMENT ACT OF 2007
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Environment and Hazardous
Materials approved for full Committee action H.R. 518, International Solid
Waste Importation and Management Act of 2007.
DARFUR ACCOUNTABILITY AND DIVESTMENT ACT
Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Domestic and International
Monetary Policy, Trade and Technology held a hearing on H.R. 180, Darfur
Accountability and Divestment Act of 2007. Testimony was heard from Senator
Brownback; Representatives Lee, Wolf and Payne; and public witnesses.
IRAQ--PROPOSED LEGISLATION
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on proposed legislation on Iraq.
Testimony was heard from the following Representatives who have introduced
legislation on this subject: Bordallo, Lynch, Murtha, Jackson-Lee of Texas;
Thompson of California; Blumenauer; Lee, Sires, Larson of Connecticut;
Woolsey, Rogers of Alabama; Udall of Colorado; Lipinski, Schakowsky, King of
Iowa, Berman, Patrick J. Murphy of Pennsylvania; Sestak, McGovern; Price of
North Carolina; Tauscher, and Farr.
WELCOME TO AMERICA?
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on International Organizations,
Human Rights, and Oversight held a hearing on Welcome to America? Testimony
was heard from public witnesses.
HOMELAND SECURITY BUDGET/US-VISIT REVIEW
Committee on Homeland Security: Held a hearing entitled "Organizational and
Policy Proposals for the Fiscal Year 2008 Department of Homeland Security
Authorization: Positioning US-VISIT for Success and Establishing a Quadrennial
Homeland Security Review Process." Testimony was heard from Robert A. Mocny,
Acting Director, US-VISIT, Department of Homeland Security; Richard Stana,
Director, Homeland Security and Justice Issues, GAO; and public witnesses.
[Page: D367]
BORDER CROSSINGS; IMMIGRANTS AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Border, Maritime, and Global
Counterterrorism continued hearings entitled "Crossing the Border: Immigrants
in Detention and Victims of Trafficking, Part II." Testimony was heard from
Gabriel Garcia, Program Manager, Human Smuggling and Trafficking Unit, Office
of Investigations, Immigration and Customs Information, Department of Homeland
Security; and public witnesses.
ELECTION REFORM
Committee on House Administration: Subcommittee on Elections continued
hearings on Election Reform: Auditing Federal Elections. Testimony was heard
from Ion Sancho, Supervisor of Elections, Leon County, Florida; Matt
Damschroder, Director, Franklin County, Board of Elections, Ohio; and public
witnesses.
FBI'S USE OF NATIONAL SECURITY LETTERS
Committee on the Judiciary: Held a hearing on the Inspector General's
Independent Report on the FBI's Use of National Security Letters. Testimony
was heard from the following officials of the Department of Justice: Glen A.
Fine, Inspector General; and Valerie Caproni, General Counsel, FBI.
SECOND CHANCE ACT
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland
Security held a hearing on the Second Chance Act of 2007. Testimony was heard
from public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE/PUBLIC LANDS ENERGY
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources
held an oversight hearing on the effect of global climate change on public
lands and resources as a result of federal energy policies and actions.
Testimony was heard from Mark Myers, Director, U.S. Geological Survey,
Department of the Interior; Deborah Williams, former Assistant to the
Department of the Interior, Alaska; and public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK BISON
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and
Lands held an oversight hearing on Yellowstone National Park Bison. Testimony
was heard from Representative Rehberg; Mike Soukup, Associate Director,
National Park Service, Department of the Interior; John Clifford, D.V.M.,
Deputy Administrator, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, USDA; Robin
Nazzaro, Director, Natural Resources and Environment, GAO; Governor Brian
Schweitzer of Montana; and public witnesses.
FEDERAL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Organization, and Procurement held a hearing on Federal Financial
Statements for Fiscal Year 2006: Fiscal Outlook, Management Weaknesses and
Consequences. Testimony was heard from David M. Walker, Comptroller General,
GAO; Linda Combs, Controller, OMB; James T. Campbell, Acting Chief Financial
Officer and William Maharay, Deputy Inspector General, Audit Services, both
with the Department of Energy; David Norquist, Chief Financial Officer and
James L. Taylor, Deputy Inspector General, both with the Department of
Homeland Security.
NSF REAUTHORIZATION
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Research and Science
Education held a hearing on National Science Foundation Reauthorization, Part
I. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the NSF: Arden L.
Bement, Jr., Director; and Steven C. Beering, Chairman, National Science
Board.
OVERSIGHT--POST-KATRINA TEMPORARY HOUSING
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Economic
Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management held an oversight
hearing on Post-Katrina Temporary Housing: Dilemmas and Solutions. Testimony
was heard from Representative Ross; David R. Paulison, Director, FEMA,
Department of Homeland Security; and public witnesses.
MOTORCOACH SAFETY
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Highways and
Transit held a hearing on Motorcoach Safety. Testimony was heard from John H.
Hill, Administrator, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Department
of Transportation; Mark V. Rosenker, Chairman, National Transportation Safety
Board; and public witnesses.
IRS OPERATIONS AND THE TAX GAP
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Oversight held a hearing on IRS
Operations and the Tax Gap. Testimony was heard from Mark W. Everson,
Commissioner, IRS, Department of the Treasury.
[Page: D368]
U.S. KOREA FREE TRADE AGREEMENT NEGOTIATIONS
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Trade held a hearing on the
U.S./Korea Free Trade Agreement Negotiations. Testimony was heard from Karan
K. Bhatia, Deputy U.S. Trade Representative; and public witnesses.
SIGNALS INTELLIGENCE
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Signals Intelligence. Testimony was heard from departmental
witnesses.
2007/03/21
Daily Digest - Wednesday, March 21, 2007; pages D371 - D380
Committee Meetings
USDA'S RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Specialty Crops, Rural Development,
and Foreign Agriculture held a hearing to review the USDA rural development
programs and the agency's rural development proposal for the 2007 Farm Bill.
Testimony was heard from Tom Dorr, Under Secretary, Rural Development, USDA;
and public witnesses.
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on NOAA. Testimony was heard from VADM Conrad
C. Lautenbacher, Administrator, NOAA, Department of Commerce.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on Department of Justice Overview.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services and General
Government held a hearing on the Federal Judiciary. Testimony was heard from
Julia Smith Gibbons, Circuit Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth
Circuit; and James C. Duff, Director, Administrative Office of the U.S.
Courts.
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security held a hearing
on Enhancing Privacy and Civil Rights While Meeting Homeland Security Needs.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Homeland
Security: Hugo Teufel III, Chief Privacy Officer; and Daniel Sutherland,
Office Civil Rights and Liberties; and Linda Koontz, Director, Information
Management Issues, GAO.
[Page: D376]
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related
Agencies held a hearing on Holocaust Museum/National Gallery of Art/Commission
on Fine Arts/National Capital Planning Commission/Advisory Council on Historic
Preservation. Testimony was heard from Sara Bloomfield, Director, U.S.
Holocaust Memorial Museum; Earl A. Powell III, Director, National Gallery of
Arts and Chairman, Commission of Fine Arts; and Thomas Luebke, Secretary,
Commission on Fine Arts; Patricia E. Gallagher, Executive Director, National
Capital Planning Commission; and John Fowler, Executive Director, Advisory
Council on Historic Preservation.
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Public Broadcasting.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Corporation for Public
Broadcasting: Patricia Harris, President and CEO; Cheryl Halpern, Chairman,
Board of Directors; and Kenneth A. Konz, Inspector General; Ken Stern, CEO,
National Public Radio; and Paula Kerger, CEP, Public Broadcasting Service.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS' AFFAIRS AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans'
Affairs and Related Agencies continued appropriation hearings. Testimony was
heard from public witnesses.
STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and
Related Programs held a hearing on International Affairs Budget. Testimony was
heard from Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of State.
MILITARY COMMANDS BUDGET
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on the Fiscal Year 2008 National
Defense Authorization Budget Request from the U.S. Strategic Command, Northern
Command, Transportation Command, and Southern Command. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Defense: GEN James E.
Cartwright, USMC, Commander, U.S. Strategic Command; ADM Timothy J. Keating,
USN, Command, NORAD and U.S. NORTHCOM; GEN Norton A. Schwartz, USAF,
Commander, U.S. Transportation Command; and ADM James Stavridis, USN,
Commander, U.S. Southern Command.
DEFENSE COUNTERPROLIFERATION/COUNTERTERRORISM
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Terrorism, Unconventional Threats
and Capabilities held a hearing on Department of Defense counterproliferation,
counterterrorism, and science and technology priorities. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Defense: John Young,
Director, Defense Research and Engineering; James Tegnelia, Director, Defense
Threat Reduction Agency; Anthony J. Tether, Director, Defense Advanced
Research Project Agency; Thomas H. Killion, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Army,
Research and Technology; RADM William Landay III, USN, Chief of Naval
Research; and Terry Jaggers, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Air Force, Science,
Technology and Engineering, Office of the Assistant Secretary, Acquisition.
CONCURRENT BUDGET RESOLUTION FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on the Budget: Ordered reported, as amended, the Concurrent
Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2008.
ESEA REAUTHORIZATION
Committee on Education and Labor: Held a hearing on ESEA Reauthorization:
Options for Improving NCLB's Measures of Progress. Testimony was heard from
Peter McWalters, Commissioner, Department of Education, State of Rhode Island;
Valerie A. Woodruff, Secretary of Education, State of Delaware; and public
witnesses.
CLIMATE CHANGE PERSPECTIVES
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality and
the Subcommittee on Energy and Environment of the Committee on Science and
Technology held a joint hearing entitled "Perspectives on Climate Change."
Testimony was heard from former Vice President Al Gore, of TN; and a public
witness.
SHAREHOLDER VOTE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION PAY; COMMITTEE BUSINESS
Committee on Financial Services: Began mark of H.R. 1257, Shareholder Vote on
Executive Compensation Act.
Will continue tomorrow.
The Committee also approved pending Committee business.
[Page: D377]
DRUG-RESISTANT TUBERCULOSIS THREAT
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health held a
hearing on the Global Threat of Drug-Resistant TB: A Call to Action for World
TB Day. Testimony was heard from Representative Engel; the following officials
of the Department of State: Mark R. Dybul, Coordinator, Office of the U.S.
Global AIDS Coordinator; and Kent R. Hill, Assistant Administrator, Bureau for
Global Health, U.S. Agency for International Development; Julie L. Gerberding,
M.D., Director, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Department of
Health and Human Services; and public witnesses.
The Subcommittee also held a briefing on this subject, Testimony was heard
from Mario Raviglione, M.D., Director, Stop TB Department, Work Heath
Organization.
U.S.-PAKISTAN POLICY
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Middle East and South Asia held
a hearing on U.S. Policy Toward Pakistan. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
SECURING LIQUID NATURAL GAS TANKERS
Committee on Homeland Security: Held a hearing entitled "Securing LNG Tankers
to Protect the Homeland." Testimony was heard from Jim Wells, Director,
Energy, NRC, Natural Resources and Environment, GAO; RADM Brian M. Salerno,
USCG, Director, Inspection and Compliance, U.S. Coast Guard, Department of
Homeland Security; and H. Keith Lesnick, Director, Office of Deepwater Post
Licensing, Maritime Administration, Department of Transportation; J. Mark
Robinson, Director, Office of Energy Projects, Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission, Department of Energy; and public witnesses.
RADIATION DETECTION TECHNOLOGIES
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Emerging Threats,
Cybersecurity, and Science and Technology held a hearing entitled "Countering
the Nuclear Threat to the Homeland: Evaluating the Deployment of Radiation
Detection Technologies." Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the Department of Homeland Security: Vayl Oxford, Director, Domestic Nuclear
Detection Office; and Jayson Ahern, Assistant Commissioner, Office of Field
Operations, Customs and Border Protection.
ISSUANCE OF SUBPOENAS--INVESTIGATION OF RECENT U.S. ATTORNEYS TERMINATION
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
approved a motion authorizing the Chairman of the Committee on the Judiciary
to issue subpoenas to the following individuals to secure testimony pursuant
to the Committee's investigation concerning the recent termination of U.S.
Attorneys and related subjects: D. Kyle Sampson; Karl Rove, Harriet Miers;
William Kelley; and Scott Jennings.
MORTGAGES IN URBAN AMERICA
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Domestic Policy
held a hearing on Foreclosure, Predatory Mortgage and Payday Lending in
America's Cities. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSE VOTING RIGHTS ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 7 to 4, a closed rule. The rule
provides one hour and twenty minutes of general debate on H.R. 1433, District
of Columbia House Voting Rights Act of 2007, with one hour equally divided and
controlled by the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on the
Judiciary and twenty minutes equally divided and controlled by the chairman
and ranking minority member of the Committee on Oversight and Government
Reform. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the bill
except those arising under clauses 9 or 10 of Rule XXI. The rule provides that
the amendment printed in the report shall be considered as adopted. The rule
waives all points of order against the bill, as amended, and provides that the
bill, as amended, shall be considered as read. Finally, the rule provides one
motion to recommit with or without instructions. Testimony was heard from
Chairman Conyers, Representatives Sensenbrenner, Issa, King of Iowa, Sessions,
Rohrabacher, Flake, Bishop of Utah, and Price of Georgia.
U.S. TROOPS READINESS, VETERANS' HEALTH AND IRAQ ACCOUNTABILITY ACT
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 9 to 4, a closed rule. The rule
provides 4 hours of general debate on H.R. 1591, U.S. Troops Readiness,
Veterans' Health and Iraq Accountability Act, equally divided and controlled
by the Chairman and Ranking Minority Member ofthe Committee on Appropriations.
The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the bill except
those arising under clauses 9 or 10 of Rule XXI. The rule provides that the
amendment printed in the report shall be considered as adopted. The rule
waives all points of order against the bill, as amended, and provides that the
bill, as amended, shall be considered as read. Finally, the rule provides one
motion to recommit with or without instructions. Testimony was heard from
Chairman Obey, Representatives Lynch, Waters, Woolsey, Lee, Watson,
Jackson-Lee of Texas, Lewis of California, Kirk, Sessions, Hunter, Shays,
McHugh, Flake, Wilson of South Carolina, Cole of Oklahoma, Gingrey, King of
Iowa, and Kuhl.
[Page: D378]
WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES FEDERAL CONTRACTING
Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology held a
hearing on Federal Government Efforts in Contracting with Women-Owned
Businesses. Testimony was heard from Jovita Carranza, Deputy Administrator,
SBA; Frank Spampinato, Chief Acquisition Officer, Department of Energy; Glenn
Perry, Director, Contracts and Acquisitions Management, Department of
Education; Thomas Luedtke, Assistant Administrator, NASA; and public
witnesses.
FAA FINANCING PROPOSAL
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing on the Federal Aviation Administration's Financing Proposal.
Testimony was heard from Representatives Tiahrt and Barrow; from the following
officials of the Department of Transportation: Daniel K. Elwell, Assistant
Administrator, Aviation Policy, Planning and Environment, FAA; and Calvin L.
Scovel III, Inspector General; Gerald Dillingham, Director, Physical
Infrastructure Issues, GAO; and public witnesses.
KATRINA TAX RELIEF ACT; GENETIC INFORMATION NONDISCRIMINATION ACT
Committee on Ways and Means: Ordered reported, as amended, the following
bills: H.R. 1562, Katrina Housing Tax Relief Act of 2007; and H.R. 493,
Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2007.
MEDICARE ADVANTAGE
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on the
Medicare Advantage. Testimony was heard from Leslie V. Norwalk, Acting
Administrator, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Department of
Health and Human Services; Mark Miller, Executive Director, Medicare Payment
Advisory Commission; and Peter R. Orszag, Director, CBO.
BRIEFINGS--HOT SPOTS FBI/CIA
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to
receive a briefing on Hot Spots. The Committee was briefed by departmental
witnesses.
The Committee also met in executive session to receive a briefing on FBI/CIA.
The Committee was briefed by departmental witnesses.
2007/03/22
Daily Digest - Thursday, March 22, 2007; pages D382 - D390
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
Conditions and Trends in Rural Communities. Testimony was heard from Katherine
Smith, Acting Administrator, Economic Research Service, USDA.
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and
Related Agencies held a hearing and on the DEA/Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and
Firearms. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of Justice: Karen Tandy, Administrator, DEA; and Michael J. Sullivan, Acting
Director, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Department of Energy: Nuclear
Nonproliferation. Testimony was heard from Will Tobey, Administrator, Defense
Nuclear Nonproliferation, Department of Energy.
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT AND RELATED AGENCIES
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services and General
Government held a hearing on SBA. Testimony was heard from Steven C. Presten,
Administrator, SBA.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT AND RELATED AGENCIES
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Minerals Management Service/Office of
Surface Mining. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of the Interior: Johnnie Burton, Director, Minerals Management
Service; and Brent T. Wahlquist, Acting Director, Office of Surface Mining.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative Branch held a hearing
on Library of Congress and Open World: Budget. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Library of Congress: James Billington, Librarian of
Congress; Jo Ann Jenkins, Chief Operating Officer, and a public witness.
[Page: D387]
TRANSPORTATION, AND HUD AND RELATED AGENCIES
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation, and Housing and
Urban Development and Related Agencies held a hearing on the FAA. Testimony
was heard from Marion Blakey, Administrator, FAA, Department of
Transportation.
DOD AIRCRAFT PROGRAMS
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Air and Land Forces and the
Subcommittee on Seapower and Expeditionary Forces held a joint hearing on
Department of Defense Aircraft Programs. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Defense: David G. Ahern, Director,
Portfolio Systems Acquisition, Office of the Under Secretary, Acquisition,
Technology and Logistics; James P. Woolsey, Assistant Director, Cost Analysis
and Research Division, Institute for Defense Analyses; BG Stephen Mundt, USA,
Director, Army Aviation, Headquarters, U.S. Army; William Balderson, Deputy
Assistant Secretary, Naval Air Programs, Office of the Assistant Secretary of
the Navy, Research, Development and Acquisition; RADM Bruce W. Clingan, USN,
Director, Air Warfare Division, Headquarters, U.S. Navy; LTG John G.
Castellaw, USMC, Deputy Commandant, Aviation, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps;
LTG Carrol H. Chandler, USAF, Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations, Plans, and
Requirements, Headquarters, U.S. Air Force; and LTG Donald J. Hoffman, USAF,
Military Deputy, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force,
Acquisition; and Michael J. Sullivan, Director, Acquisition and Sourcing
Management, GAO.
BP--TEXAS CITY DISASTER AND WORKER SAFETY
Committee on Education and Labor: Held a hearing on the BP-Texas City Disaster
and Worker Safety. Testimony was heard from Carolyn W. Merritt, Chair, U.S.
Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board; and public witnesses.
COLLEGE PREPARATION
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong
Learning, and Competitiveness held a hearing on The Higher Education Act:
Approaches to College Preparation. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTE IMPORTATION AND MANAGEMENT ACT OF 2007; GENETIC
INFORMATION ACT OF 2007
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Ordered reported H.R. 518, International
Solid Waste Importation and Management Act of 2007.
The Committee began mark-up of H.R. 493, Genetic Information Nondiscrimination
Act of 2007.
Will continue tomorrow.
SAFETY OF DRUG SUPPLY
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
continued hearings on The Adequacy of FDA Efforts To Assure the Safety of the
Drug Supply, Part II. Testimony was heard from Andrew C. Von Eschenbach, M.D.,
Commissioner, FDA, Department of Health and Human Services; Marcia G. Crosse,
Director, Public Health and Military Health Care Issues, GAO; and public
witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the
Internet held a hearing entitled "Oversight of the National Telecommunications
and Information Administration and Innovations in Interoperability." Testimony
was heard from John M.R. Kneuer, Assistant Secretary, Communications and
Information, National Telecommunications and Information Administration,
Department of Commerce; and public witnesses.
OIL DEPENDENCE AND FOREIGN POLICY
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on Foreign Policy and National
Security Implications of Oil Dependence. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
GUINEA--PROSPECTS FOR PEACE
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health held a
hearing on Prospects for Peace in Guinea. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of State: Linda Thomas-Greenfield,
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of African Affairs; and Walter
North, Senior Deputy Assistant Administrator, Africa Bureau, U.S. Agency for
International Development; and public witnesses.
EUROPEAN OPINION OF U.S. POLICIES
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on International Organizations,
Human Rights and Oversight and the Subcommittee on Europe held a joint hearing
on Polling Data on European Opinion of American Policies, Values and People.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
[Page: D388]
OVER-CLASSIFICATION/INFORMATION SHARING
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Intelligence, Information
Sharing and Terrorism Risk Assessment held a hearing entitled
"Over-classification and Pseudo-classification: The Impact on Information
Sharing." Testimony was heard from J. William Leonard, Director, Information
Security Oversight Office, National Archives and Records Administration; Chief
Cathy L. Lanier, Metropolitan Police Department; Michael P. Downing, Assistant
Commanding Officer, Counter-Terrorism/Criminal Intelligence Bureau, Los
Angeles Police Department.
JUSTICE DEPARTMENT CIVIL RIGHTS DIVISION
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and
Civil Liberties held a hearing on Changing Tides: Exploring the Current State
of Civil Rights Enforcement within the Department of Justice and an oversight
hearing on the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice. Testimony
was heard from Wan J. Kim, Assistant Attorney General, Civil Rights Division,
Department of Justice; and public witnesses.
COPYRIGHT ACT REFORM
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Courts, the Internet, and
Intellectual Property held a hearing on Reforming Section 115 of the Copyright
Act for the Digital Age. Testimony was heard from Marybeth Peters, Register of
Copyrights, Library of Congress.
PUERTO RICO MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Insular Affairs held a hearing
on the following bills: H.R. 900, Puerto Rico Democracy Act of 2007; and H.R.
1230, Puerto Rico Self-Determination Act of 2007. Testimony was heard from
Kenneth Thomas, Congressional Research Service, Library of Congress; and
public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans
approved for full Committee action, as amended, the following bills: H.R. 50,
Multinational Species Conservation Funds Reauthorization Act of 2007; H.R.
465, Asian Elephant Conservation Reauthorization Act of 2007; and H.R. 1205,
Coral Reef Conservation Amendments Act of 2007.
D.C. COLLEGE ACCESS ACT EXTENSION
Committee on Oversight and Reform: Subcommittee on Federal Workforce, Postal
Service and the District of Columbia held a hearing on H.R. 1124, To extend
the District of Columbia College Access Act of 1999. Testimony was heard from
Mayor Adrian M. Fenty, District of Columbia; and public witnesses.
NOAA BUDGET FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment
held a hearing on NOAA Fiscal Year 2008 Budget. Testimony was heard from VADM
Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Jr., USN (Ret.), Under Secretary for Oceans and
Atmosphere and Administrator, NOAA, Department of Commerce; and a public
witness.
FAA'S RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT BUDGET PRIORITIES FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics
held a hearing on FAA's Research and Development Budget Priorities for Fiscal
Year 2008. Testimony was heard from Victoria Cox, Air Traffic Organization
Vice President for Operations Planning, FAA, Department of Transportation; R.
John Hansman, Co-Chair, FAA's Research Engineering and Development Advisory
Committee; and public witnesses.
HIDDEN TAX ON SMALL BUSINESS
Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing entitled "The New Hidden Tax on
Small Business." Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
FAA'S OPERATIONAL AND SAFETY PROGRAMS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing to review FAA's Operational and Safety Program. Testimony was heard
from Gerald Dillingham, Director, Physical Infrastructure Issues, GAO; Warren
Kroeppel, General Manager, LaGuardia Airport, Port Authority of New York and
New Jersey; and public witnesses.
NATIONAL GUARD AND RESERVE EDUCATION BENEFITS
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity held a
hearing on Education Benefits for National Guard and Reserve members.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense:
Craig W. Duehring, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Reserve Affairs; MG
Terry L. Scherling, USAF, Director, Joint Staff, National Guard Bureau; and MG
William D. Wofford, USA, State Adjutant General, Arkansas National Guard; and
representatives of veterans organizations.
[Page: D389]
ELDERLY AND DISABLED REFUGEES ASSISTANCE
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee Income Security and Family Support
held a hearing on Assistance for Elderly and Disabled Refugees. Testimony was
heard from public witnesses.
ALTERNATIVE MINIMUM TAX
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Select Revenue Measures held a
hearing on the Alternative Minimum Tax. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
COUNTERINTELLIGENCE
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold
hearing on Counterintelligence. Testimony was heard from departmental
witnesses.
2007/03/23
Daily Digest - Friday, March 23, 2007; pages D391 - D402
Committee Meetings
NATIONAL GUARD AND RESERVES
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on the Second Report to Congress
by the Commission on the National Guard and Reserves. Testimony was heard from
MG Arnold Punaro, USMC (Ret.), Chairman, Commission on the National Guard and
Reserves.
[Page: D396]
DEFENSE SPACE ACTIVITIES BUDGET
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Strategic Forces held a hearing
on Fiscal Year 2008 National Defense Authorization Budget Request and the
status of space activities. Testimony was heard from the following officials
of the Department of Defense: Ronald Sega, Under Secretary and GEN J. Kevin
Chilton, USAF, Command, Air Force Space Command; and Donald Kerr, Director,
National Reconnaissance Office.
GENETIC INFORMATION NONDISCRIMINATION ACT OF 2007
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 493,
Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2007.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary
and Secondary Education held a hearing on Impact of NCLB on English Language
Learners. Testimony was heard from Cornelia M. Ashby, Director, Education,
Workforce, and Income Security Issues, GAO; and public witnesses.
PUBLIC INVESTMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
Committee on Financial Services: Held a hearing on the Role of Public
Investment in Promoting Economic Growth. Testimony was heard from Andrew F.
Haughwout, Research and Statistics Group, Federal Reserve Bank of New York,
Federal Reserve System; and public witnesses.
FOREIGN OWNERSHIP
Committee on Homeland Security,: Subcommittee on Transportation Security and
Infrastructure Protection, hearing entitled "Foreign Ownership: Discussion of
Challenges Posed by Foreign Ownership To Using Critical Infrastructure."
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Homeland
Security: Stewart A. Baker, Assistant Secretary, Policy; COL Robert B.
Stephan, USAF (Ret.) Assistant Secretary, Infrastructure Protection; and
Gregory Garcia, Assistant Secretary, Cyber Security and Telecommunications;
and Ann Calvaresi Barr, Director, Acquisition and Sourcing Management, GAO.
ELECTION REFORM--VOTER CONFIDENCE AND INCREASED ACCESSIBILITY ACT OF 2007
Committee on House Administration: Subcommittee on Elections continued
hearings on Election Reform, H.R. 811, Voter Confidence and Increased
Accessibility Act of 2007. Testimony was heard from Representatives Holt and
Petri; Charlie Cast, Governor of Florida; Debra Bowen, Secretary of State,
California; Chris Nelson, Secretary of State, South Dakota; and public
witnesses.
2007/03/26
Daily Digest - Monday, March 26, 2007; pages D404 - D410
Committee Meetings
SELECT INTELLIGENCE OVERSIGHT
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Select Intelligence Oversight met
in executive session to hold a hearing on the National Security Agency.
Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses.
INTERNATIONAL TRADE IMPACTS ON WORKERS
Committee on Education and Labor: Held a hearing on How Effective are Existing
Programs in Helping Workers Impacted by International Trade? Testimony was
heard from public witnesses.
IRAQI VOLUNTEERS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on the Middle East and South Asia
held a hearing on Iraqi Refugees: What is America's Obligation? Testimony was
heard from Ellen Sauerbrey, Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Population,
Refugees, and Migration, Department of State; and public witnesses.
GENERIC BIOTECH DRUGS
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Held a hearing on Safe and
Affordable Biotech Drugs--The Need for a Generic Pathway. Testimony was heard
from Janet Woodcock, M.D., Deputy Commissioner, Operations and Chief Medical
Officer, FDA, Department of Health and Human Services; and public witnesses.
RAIL AND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SECURITY ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 7 to 4, a structured rule. The rule
provides 1 hour and 20 minutes of general debate on H.R. 1401, Rail and Public
Transportation Security Act of 2007, with 1 hour equally divided and
controlled by the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on
Homeland Security and 20 minutes equally divided and controlled by the
chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of
the bill except those arising under clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The rule
provides that the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the
Committee on Homeland Security shall be considered as an original bill for the
purpose of amendment and shall be considered as read.
The rule makes in order only those amendments printed in the Rules Committee
report accompanying the resolution. The rule provides that the amendments made
in order may be offered 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 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 except for those arising
under clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. Finally, the rule provides 1 motion to
recommit with or without instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman
Thompson and Chairman Oberstar, Representatives Jackson-Lee of Texas, Arcuri,
Cohen, King of New York, Lungren, Dent, Brown-Waite, Mica, Brown of South
Carolina and Sessions.
[Page: D408]
HAWAIIAN HOMEOWNERSHIP OPPORTUNITY ACT
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 7 to 4, a closed rule. The rule
provides 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 835, Hawaiian Homeownership
Opportunity Act of 2007, equally divided and controlled by the chairman and
ranking minority member of the Committee on Financial Services. The rule
waives all points of order against the bill and against its consideration
except those arising under clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The rule provides
that the bill be considered as read. Finally, the rule provides 1 motion to
recommit with or without instructions. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Abercrombie and Hirono.
2007/03/27
Daily Digest - Tuesday, March 27, 2007; pages D411 - D422
Committee Meetings
RURAL AMERICA CREDIT AVAILABILITY
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Conservation, Credit, Energy, and
Research held a hearing to review credit availability in rural America.
Testimony was heard from Glen L. Keppy, Associate Administrator, Farm Service
Agency, USDA; Nancy C. Pellet, Chairman of the Board and CEO, Farm Credit
Administration; and public witnesses.
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on State and Local Grants, and on Bureau of
Prisons. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
Justice: Regina B. Schofield, Director, Office of Justice Programs; Carl R.
Peed, Director, Community Oriented Policing Services; and Mary Beth Buchanan,
Acting Director, Office of Violence Against Women; John F. Clark, Director
United Marshals Service; Harley Lappin, Director, Federal Bureau of Prisons;
and Stacia Hylton, Trustee, Office of the Federal Detention Trustee.
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services and General
Government held a hearing on the SEC. Testimony was heard from Christopher
Cox, Chairman, SEC
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security held a hearing
on Priorities in Enforcing Immigration Laws and Temporary Worker Program.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Homeland
Security: Julie Myers, Assistant Secretary, Immigration and Customs
Enforcement; Emilio Gonzalez, Director, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration
Services; and Jim Taylor, Deputy Inspector General.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related
Agencies held a hearing on National Park Service. Testimony was heard from
Mary Bomar, Director, National Park Service, Department of the Interior.
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education and Related Agencies continued appropriations hearings. Testimony
was heard from public witnesses.
Will continue tomorrow.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative Branch held a hearing
on Government Printing Office: Budget/Printing Technology in the 21st Century.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the GPO: William Turri,
Acting Public Printer; Michael Wash, Chief Technology Officer; and Robert
Tapella, Chief of Staff.
STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and
Related Programs held a hearing on International Organizations and
International Peacekeeping Programs. Testimony was heard from Kristen
Silverberg, Assistant Secretary, International Organization Affairs,
Department of State.
TRANSPORTATION, HUD AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation, and Housing and
Urban Development, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Housing Needs of
Special Populations. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Housing and Urban Development: Orlando Cabrera, Assistant
Secretary, Public and Indian Housing; and Brian Montgomery, Assistant
Secretary, Housing and Federal Housing Commissioner.
ARMY GROUND FORCE ACQUISITION PROGRAMS
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Air and Land Forces held a
hearing on Army ground force acquisition programs. Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the Department of Defense: James I. Finley, Deputy
Under Secretary, Acquisition, Technology and Logistics; Claude M. Bolton, Jr.,
Assistant Secretary, Army, Acquisition, Logistics and Technology; and LTG John
M. Curran, USA, Deputy Commander, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command; and
Paul L. Francis, Director, Acquisition and Sourcing Management, GAO.
[Page: D417]
MILITARY HEALTH CARE SYSTEM
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Military Personnel held a hearing
on the state of the military health care system. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Defense: MG Gale S. Pollock, USA,
Acting Surgeon General of the Army; VADM Donald C. Arthur, USN, Surgeon
General of the Navy, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery; and LTG James G.
Roudebush, USAF, Surgeon General, Department of the Air Force; and public
witnesses.
ARMY/AIR NATIONAL GUARD READINESS
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Readiness held a hearing on the
readiness of the Army and Air National Guard. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Defense: LTG H. Steven Blum, USA,
Chief, National Guard Bureau; LTG Clyde A. Vaughn, USA, Director, Army
National Guard; and LTG Craig R. McKinley, USAF, Director, Air National Guard.
MISSILE DEFENSE PROGRAMS BUDGET
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Strategic Forces held a hearing
on the Fiscal Year 2008 National Defense Authorization Budget Request for
missile defense programs. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the Department of Defense: LTG Henry A. Obering, USAF, Director, Missile
Defense Agency; LTG Kevin T. Campbell, USA, Commanding General, U.S. Army
Space and Missile Defense Command/Army Forces Strategic Command; Charles E.
McQueary, Director, Operational Test and Evaluation; Brian Green, Deputy
Assistant Secretary, Strategic Capabilities.
INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR CLASSIFICATION
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Workforce Protections held a
hearing on Providing Fairness to Workers Who Have Been Misclassified as
Independent Contractors. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
CLIMATE CHANGE AND DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held
a hearing entitled "Climate Change--International Issues, Engaging Developing
Countries." Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
CHILDREN'S DENTAL CARE
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled "Insuring Bright Futures: Improving Access to Dental Care and
Providing a Healthy Start for Children." Testimony was heard from Christine
Farrell, Medicaid Policy Specialist, Department of Community Health, Medical
Service Administration, State of Michigan; and public witnesses.
SUBPRIME/PREDATORY MORTGAGE LENDING
Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Financial Institutions held a
hearing entitled "Subprime and Predatory Lending: New Regulatory Guidance,
Current Market Conditions, and Effects on Regulated Financial Institutions."
Testimony was heard from Sheila Bair, Chairman, FDIC; John Reich, Director,
Office of Thrift Supervision; JoAnn Johnson, Chairman, National Credit Union
Administration; E. Wayne Rushtop, Senior Deputy Comptroller, Office of the
Comptroller of the Currency, Department of the Treasury; Sandra F. Braunstein,
Director, Division of Consumer and Community Affairs, Federal Reserve Board,
Federal Reserve System; and public witnesses.
NATURAL DISASTER INSURANCE
Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Housing and Community
Opportunity held a hearing entitled "Perspectives on Natural Disaster
Insurance." Testimony was heard from Representatives Taylor; Klein of Florida;
Mahoney of Florida; and Ginny Brown-Waite of Florida; and public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 982,
ADVANCE Democracy Act of 2007; H.R. 1405, amended, Wildlife GAINS Act of 2007;
H.R. 1441, Stop Arming Iran Act; H.R. 1469, Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad
Foundation Act of 2007; H.R. 1681, amended, American Red Cross Governance
Modernization Act of 2007; and H.R. 1678, Torture Victims Relief
Reauthorization Act of 2007.
The Committee also favorably considered and adopted a motion urging the
Chairman to request that the following measures be considered on the
Suspension Calendar: H. Res. 100, Expressing the sympathy of the House of
Representatives to the families of women and girls murdered in Guatemala and
encouraging the Government of Guatemala to bring an end to these crimes; H.
Res. 125, amended, Expressing deep concern over the use of civilians as "human
shields" in violation of international humanitarian law and the law of war
during armed conflict, including Hezbollah's tactic of embedding its forces
among civilians to use them as human shields during the summer 2006 conflict
between Hezbollah and the State of Israel; H. Res. 158, amended, Observing the
200th anniversary of the abolition of the D418British slave trade and
encouraging the people of the United States, particularly the youth of the
United States, to remember the life and legacy of William Wilberforce, a
member of the British House of Commons who devoted his life to the suppression
and abolition of the institution of slavery, and to work for the protection of
human rights throughout the world; H. Res. 196, Supporting the goals and
ideals of World Water Day; H. Res. 240, Urging all member countries of the
International Commission of the International Tracing Service (ITS) who have
yet to ratify the May 2006 Amendments to the 1955 Bonn Accords Treaty, to
expedite the ratification process to allow for open access to the Holocaust
archives located at Bad Arolsen, Germany; and H. Res. 267, Calling for the
immediate and unconditional release of British marines and sailors held
captive by Iran; and H. Con. Res. 100, Condemning the recent violent actions
of the Government of Zimbabwe against peaceful opposition party activists and
members of civil society.
[Page: D418]
U.S.-CHINA RELATIONS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, and the
Global Environment held a hearing on U.S.-China Relations. Testimony was heard
from Thomas J. Christensen, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of East Asian
and Pacific Affairs, Department of State.
IRAQ RECONSTRUCTION FUNDING
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on International Organizations,
Human Rights, and Oversight and the Subcommittee on the Middle East and South
Asia held a joint hearing on Can Iraq Pay for its Own Reconstruction?
Testimony was heard from David Satterfield, Senior Adviser, Coordinator for
Iraq, Department of State; and Stuart W. Bowen, Jr., Special Inspector General
for Iraq Reconstruction.
SECOND CHANCE ACT; CRIMINAL OFFENDERS MENTAL ILLNESS
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland
Security approved for full Committee action H.R. 1593, Second Chance Act of
2007.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on Criminal Justice Responses to
Offenders with Mental Illness. Testimony was heard from Steven Leifman, Judge,
Criminal Division, Miami-Dade County Court, Florida's 11th Judicial Circuit,
Miami, Florida; Lieutenant Richard Wall, Los Angeles Police Department; and
public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--FEDERAL LAND RECREATION
Committee on Natural Resources: Held an oversight hearing on Access Denied:
The Growing Conflict Between Fishing, Hunting, and Energy Development on
Federal Lands. Testimony was heard from Dan Gibbs, Representative, General
Assembly, State of Colorado; and public witnesses.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA COLLEGE ACCESS ACT EXTENSION
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Federal
Workforce, Postal Service, and the District of Columbia approved for full
Committee action H.R. 1124, To extend the District of Columbia College Access
Act of 1999.
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION OF THE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 9 to 3, a structured rule. The rule
provides four hours of general debate on H. Con. Res. 99, establishing the
congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2008,
with three hours to be equally divided and controlled by the Chairman and
Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on the Budget and one hour on the
subject of economic goals and policies equally divided and controlled by
Representative Maloney of New York and Representative Saxton of New Jersey or
their designees. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of
the concurrent resolution. The Rule provides that the concurrent resolution
shall be considered for amendment under the five-minute rule and shall be
considered as read.
The rule makes in order only those amendments printed in the Rules Committee
report accompanying the resolution. The rule provides that the amendments made
in order may be offered 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 division of the question
in the House or in the Committee of the Whole. The rule permits the Chairman
of the Budget Committee to offer amendments in the House to achieve
mathematical consistency. The rule provides that the concurrent resolution
shall not be subject to a demand for division of the question of its adoption.
Testimony was heard from Chairman Spratt and Representatives Cooper, Scott of
Virginia, Berkley, Ryan of Wisconsin, Porter, Kirk, Tim Murphy of Pennsylvania
and Jordan of Ohio.
[Page: D419]
WOUNDED WARRIOR ASSISTANCE ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, a structured rule. The rule
provides one hour and twenty minutes of general debate on H.R. 1538, Wounded
Warrior Assistance Act of 2007, with one hour equally divided and controlled
by the Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Armed Services
and twenty minutes equally divided and controlled by the Chairman and Ranking
Minority Member of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs. The rule waives all
points of order against consideration of the bill except those arising under
clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The rule provides that the amendment in the
nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Armed Services shall be
considered as an original bill for the purpose of amendment and shall be
considered as read.
The rule makes in order only those amendments printed in the Rules Committee
report accompanying the resolution. The rule provides that the amendments made
in order may be offered 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 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 except for those arising
under clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The rule provides one motion to recommit
with or without instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairman Skelton and
Representatives Sestak, Welch of Vermont, Lowey, Stupak, Kennedy, Pascrell,
Hunter, Kline of Minnesota, Moran of Kansas, Bilirakis, Shays, Weller of
Illinois and Pearce.
CRUISE SHIP CRIMES
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Coast Guard
and Maritime Transportation held a hearing on Crimes Against Americans on
Cruise Ships. Testimony was heard from Salvador Hernandez, Deputy Assistant
Director, FBI, Department of Justice; RADM Wayne Justice, USCG, Assistant
Commandant for Response, U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security;
and public witnesses.
FEDERAL FUEL TAX/HIGHWAY TRUST FUND
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Highways and
Transit held a hearing on the Structure of the Federal Fuel Tax and the
Long-Term Viability of the Highways Trust Fund. Testimony was heard from David
B. Marron, Deputy Director, CBO; and public witnesses.
MENTAL HEALTH/SUBSTANCE ABUSE PARITY
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on Mental
Health and Substance Abuse Parity. Testimony was heard from Representatives
Kennedy and Ramstad; and public witnesses.
DOMESTIC INTELLIGENCE INTEGRATION
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session held a
hearing on Integration of Domestic Intelligence. Testimony was heard from
departmental witnesses.
2007/03/28
Daily Digest - Wednesday, March 28, 2007; pages D423 - D434
Committee Meetings
CROP PROTECTION PROVISIONS
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk
Management held a hearing to review proposals to amend the program crop
provisions of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002. Testimony
was heard from 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 Rural
Development. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the USDA: Tom
Dorr, Under Secretary; Jack Gleason, Administrator, Rural Business-Cooperative
Service; Russ Davis, Administrator, Rural Housing Service; James Andrew,
Administrator, Rural Utilities Service; and W. Scott Steele, Budget Officer.
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and
Explosives. Testimony was heard from Michael J. Sullivan, Acting Director,
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Department of Justice.
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Department of Energy: Nuclear Energy/Office
of Civilian Nuclear Waste/Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Energy: Dennis R. Spurgeon,
Assistant Secretary, Nuclear Energy; Edward F. Sproat III, Director, Office of
Civilian Nuclear Waste; and Dale E. Klein, Chairman, Nuclear Regulatory
Commission.
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services and General
Government held a hearing on Secretary of the Treasury. Testimony was heard
from Henry M. Paulson, Jr., Secretary of the Treasury.
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security held a hearing
on Ensuring that the Department of Homeland Security's Research and Technology
Investments Pay Off. Testimony was heard from Jay Cohen, Under Secretary,
Science and Technology Directorate, Department of Homeland Security.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service/Department
of Interior: Office of Insular Affairs/Departmental Management/Office of the
Solicitor. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of the Interior: Dale Hall, Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; Nikolao
Pula, Director, Office of Insular Affairs; R. Thomas Weimer, Assistant
Secretary, Policy, Management, and Budget; and David Bernhardt, Solicitor.
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education, and Related Agencies continued appropriation hearings. Testimony
was heard from public witnesses.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans'
Affairs, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Army Budget. Testimony was
heard from GEN Richard Cody, USA, Vice Chief of Staff, Department of the Army.
STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and
Related Programs held a hearing on Latin America and Caribbean. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of State: Tom Shannon,
Assistant Secretary, Western Hemisphere Affairs; and Adolpho Franco,
D430Assistant Administrator, U.S. Agency for International Development.
[Page: D430]
TRANSPORTATION, HUD, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban
Development, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Federal Railroad
Administration/National Railroad Passenger Corporation (AMTRAK). Testimony was
heard from Joseph Boardman, Administrator, Federal Railroad Administration,
Department of Transportation; and Alexander Kummant, President and CEO,
National Railroad Passenger Corporation (AMTRAK).
IRAQI SECURITY FORCE TRANSITION
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held
a hearing on outside perspectives on transitioning security to the Iraqi
security forces. Testimony was heard from Robert Perito, Senior Program
Officer, U.S. Institute for Peace; and public witnesses.
DOD IT BUDGET
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Terrorism, Unconventional Threats
and Capabilities held a hearing on the Fiscal Year 2008 National Defense
Authorization Budget Request on information technology. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Defense: John Grimes,
Assistant Secretary, Networks and Information Integration and Chief
Information Officer; and LTG Charles Croom, USAF, Director, Defense
Information Systems Agency.
COAL MINE SAFETY
Committee on Education and Labor: Held a hearing on Protecting the Health and
Safety of America's Mine Workers. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
DIGITAL TV TRANSITION
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the
Internet held a hearing entitled "Status of the Digital Television
Transition." Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Financial Services: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 1257,
Shareholder Vote on Executive Compensation Act.
The Committee began markup of H.R. 1427, Federal Housing Finance Reform Act of
2007.
Will continue tomorrow.
BAD AROLSEN HOLOCAUST ARCHIVES
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Europe held a hearing on Opening
up of the Bad Arolsen Holocaust Archives in Germany. Testimony was heard from
Representative Hastings of Florida; J. Christian Kennedy, Special Envoy,
Holocaust Issues, Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs, Department of
State; Paul Shapiro, Director, Center for Advanced Holocaust Studies, U.S.
Holocaust Memorial Museum; and public witnesses.
AFRICAN OPINIONS ON U.S. POLICIES
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on International Organizations,
Human Rights and Oversight and the Subcommittee on Africa, and Global Health
held a joint hearing on African Opinion on U.S. Policies, Values and People.
Testimony was heard from a public witness.
TRADE, FOREIGN POLICY EFFECTS ON AMERICAN WORKERS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Terrorism, Nonproliferation and
Trade held a hearing on Trade, Foreign Policy and the American Worker.
Testimony was heard from Carla A. Hills, former U.S. Trade Representative; and
public witnesses.
AMERICAS--POVERTY AND INEQUALITY
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere held a
hearing on Poverty and Inequality in the Americas: The Unaddressed Problem.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY AUTHORIZATION ACT FY 2008
Committee on Homeland Security: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 1684,
Department of Homeland Security Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008.
SECOND CHANCE ACT
Committee on the Judiciary: Ordered reported H.R. 1593, Second Chance Act of
2007.
OVERSIGHT--ROYALTIES AT RISK
Committee on Natural Resources: Held an oversight hearing on Royalties at
Risk? Testimony was heard from C. Stephen Allred, Assistant Secretary,
Department of the Interior; Mark Gaffigan, Acting Director, Natural Resources
and Environment, GAO; Bobby Maxwell, former Auditor, Minerals Management
Service, Department of the Interior; Dennis Roller, Audit Manager, Auditors
Office--Royalty Audit Section, State of North Dakota; Michael Geesey,
Director, Department of Audit, State of Wyoming; and public witnesses.
GSA--ALLEGATIONS OF MISCONDUCT
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Held a hearing on Allegations of
Misconduct at the General Services Administration. Testimony was heard from
Senator Grassley; and the following officials of the GSA: Lurita A. Doan,
Administrator; and Brian D. Miller, Inspector General.
[Page: D431]
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Science and Technology: Ordered reported the following measures:
H.R. 362, amended, 10,000 Teachers, 10 Million Minds, Science and Math
Scholarship Act; H. Con. Res. 76, Honoring the 50th anniversary of the
International Geophysical Year (IGY) and its past contributions to space
research, and looking forward to future accomplishments; and H. Res. 252,
Recognizing the 50th anniversary of John Herschel Glenn, Jr.'s, historic
achievement in becoming the first United States astronaut to orbit the Earth.
MEDIA INFLUENCING SCIENCE POLICY
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Investigations and
Oversight held a hearing on Shaping the Message, Distorting the Science: Media
Strategies to Influence Science Policy. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
SMALL MEDICAL PRACTICES HEALTH IT
Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Regulation, Health Care and Trade
held a hearing entitled "The Value of Health IT to Solo and Small Medical
Practices." Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
FAA'S AIRPORT IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing on the FAA's Airport Improvement Program. Testimony was heard from
D. Kirk Shaffer, Associate Administrator, Airports, FAA, Department of
Transportation; Gerald Dillingham, Director, Physical Infrastructure, GAO;
James E. Bennett, President and CEO, Metropolitan Washington Airport
Authority; and public witnesses.
TAXPAYER PROTECTION ACT OF 2007
Committee on Ways and Means: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 1677, Taxpayer
Protection Act of 2007.
NATIONAL SECURITY LETTERS
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Held a hearing on National
Security Letters. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Justice: Glenn A. Fine, Inspector General; John S. Pistole,
Deputy Director, FBI; and Kenneth Wainstein, Assistant Attorney General,
National Security Division; and public witnesses.
2007/03/29
Daily Digest - Thursday, March 29, 2007; pages D435 - D472
Committee Meetings
HONEY BEE DECLINE
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Horticulture and Organic Agriculture
held a hearing to review colony collapse disorder in honey bee colonies across
the United States. Testimony was heard from Caird E. Rexroad, Associate
Administrator, Agriculture Research Service, 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 Food
Safety and Inspection Service. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the USDA: Richard Raymond, Under Secretary, Food Safety; David
Goldman, Acting Administrator, Food Safety and Inspection Service; and W.
Scott Steele, Budget Officer.
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Commission on Civil Rights/Legal Services
Corporation/State Justice Institute. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Legal Services Corporation: Helaine M. Barnett, President and
Frank B. Strickland, Chairman, Board of Directors; Kevin Linskey, Executive
Director, State Justice Institute; and Kenneth L. Marcus, Staff Director, U.S.
Commission on Civil Rights.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on International Trade Commission.
Testimony was heard from Daniel Pearson, Chairman, International Trade
Commission.
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing on
Secretary of Defense. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Defense: Robert Gates, Secretary; and GEN Peter Pace, USMC,
Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff.
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Weapons Activities Oversight. Testimony was
heard from former Senator Sam Nunn of Georgia and Co-Chairman and CEO, Nuclear
Threat Initiative; William Perry, former Secretary of Defense; GEN James E.
Cartright, USA, Commander, U.S. Strategic Command, Department of Defense; and
a public witness.
[Page: D441]
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on Department of Energy: Weapons
Activities/and Naval Reactors. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Energy: Thomas D'Agostino, Acting
Administrator, National Nuclear Security Administration; and ADM Kirkland
Donald, USN, Deputy Administrator, Naval Reactors.
FINANCIAL SERVICES, GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services, General
Government, and Related Agencies held a hearing on IRS. Testimony was heard
from Mark W. Everson, Commissioner, IRS, Department of the Treasury.
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Homeland Security, on
Bioterrorism Preparedness and the Role of Department of Homeland Security
Chief Medical Officer. Testimony was heard from Keith Rhodes, Director,
Technology and Engineering, GAO; and the following officials of the Department
of Homeland Security: John Vitko, Division Head, Chemical and Biological
Division, Science and Technology; and Tom McGinn, Director of Veterinary and
Agriculture Security; and a public witness.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related
Agencies held a hearing on Bureau of Indian Affairs/Office of the Special
Trustee. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
the Interior: Jim Cason, Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Indian Affairs; and
Ross Swimmer, Special Trustee, American Indians.
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education and Related Agencies continued appropriations hearings. Testimony
was heard from public witnesses.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative Branch held a hearing
on House of Representatives. Testimony was heard from the following officials
of the House of Representatives: Lorraine C. Miller, Clerk; William Livingood,
Sergeant at Arms; and Dan Beard, Chief Administrative Officer.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VA, AND RELATED AGENCIES
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans'
Affairs, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Air Force Budget. Testimony
was heard from GEN T. Michael Moseley, USAF, Chief of Staff, Department of the
Air Force.
STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and
Related Programs continued appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses.
TRANSPORTATION, HUD, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban
Development, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Transportation Safety:
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration/Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Administration/Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration/National
Transportation Safety Board. Testimony was heard from the following officials
of the Department of Transportation: Nicole Nason, Administrator, National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration; John Hill, Administrator, Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Administration; and Thomas J. Barrett, Administrator, Pipeline
and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration; and Mark V. Rosenkar, Board
Member, National Transportation Safety Board.
MILITARY COMMISSIONS ACT--USE OF GUANTANAMO BAY
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on the Military Commissions Act
and the continued use of Guantanamo Bay as a detention facility. Testimony was
heard from William H. Taft IV, former Legal Adviser, Department of State and
former Deputy Secretary of Defense; Patrick F. Philbin, former Associate
Deputy Attorney General, Department of Justice; and public witnesses.
MORALE, WELFARE AND RECREATION PROGRAM
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Military Personnel held a hearing
on overview of morale, welfare and recreation (MWR) programs. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense: Leslye A.
Arsht, Deputy Under Secretary, Military Community and Family Policy; BG
Belinda Pinckney, USA, Commanding General, U.S. Army Family and Morale,
Welfare and Recreation Command; RADM Mark A. Handley, USN, D442Vice Commander,
Navy Installations Command; Michael P. Downs, Director, Personal and Family
Readiness Division, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps; and Arthur J. Myers,
Director, Air Force Services.
[Page: D442]
NCLB EFFECTS ON DISABLED
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary
and Secondary Education hearing on How NCLB Affects Students with
Disabilities. Testimony was heard from Rebecca Cort, Deputy Commissioner,
Office for Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with
Disabilities, Department of Education, State of New York; and public
witnesses.
CLIMATE CHANGE
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held
a hearing entitled "Climate Change: Lessons Learned from Existing Cap and
Trade Programs." Testimony was heard from Brian McLean, Director, Office of
Atmospheric Programs, Office of Air and Radiation, EPA; and public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Financial Services: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R.
1515, to amend the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to treat
certain communities as metropolitan cities for purposes of the community
development block grant program; H.R. 1427, amended, Federal Housing Finance
Reform Act of 2007; H.R. 1675, Preservation Approval Process Improvement Act
of 2007; and H.R. 1676, Native American Home Ownership Opportunity Act of
2007.
U.S. HUMAN RIGHTS POLICY
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on the 2007 Country Reports on
Human Rights Practices and the Promotion of Human Rights in U.S. Foreign
Policy. Testimony was heard from the following former Assistant Secretaries
for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, Department of State: Harold Hongju Koh;
and John Shattuck.
SECURE HANDLING OF AMMONIUM NITRATE ACT OF 2007
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Emerging Threats,
Cybersecurity and Science and Technology approved for full Committee action
H.R. 1680, Secure Handling of Ammonium Nitrate Act of 2007.
VOTER CONFIDENCE INCREASED ACCESSIBILITY ACT OF 2007
Committee on House Administration: Met to discuss the status of H.R. 811,
Voter Confidence and Increased Accessibility Act of 2007, which is before the
Subcommittee on Elections.
DECEPTIVE PRACTICES AND VOTER INTIMIDATION PREVENTION ACT
Committee on the Judiciary: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 1281, Deceptive
Practices and Voter Intimidation Prevention Act of 2007.
ENSURING EXECUTIVE BRANCH ACCOUNTABILITY
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
held a hearing on Ensuring Executive Branch Accountability. Testimony was
heard from the following former Assistants to President Bill Clinton: John
Podesta, Chief of Staff; and Beth Nolan, Counsel; Noel J. Francisco, former
Associate Counsel to President George W. Bush; and a public witness.
OVERSIGHT--OCEAN POLICY PRIORITIES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans
held an oversight hearing on ocean policy priorities in the United States.
Testimony was heard from Mary M. Clackin, Assistant Administrator, Program
Planning and Integration, NOAA, Department of Commerce; and the following
Co-Chairs of the Joint Ocean Commission Initiative: ADM James D. Watkins, USN
(ret.); and former Representative Leon Panetta of California.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and
Public Lands held a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 189, Paterson Great
Falls National Park Act of 2007; H.R. 359, Cesar Estrade Chavez Study Act; and
H.R. 1080, Grand Teton National Park Extension Act of 2007. Testimony was
heard from Representatives Cubin, Pascrell, Jr., and Solis; Dan Wenk, Deputy
Director, National Park Service, Department of the Interior; and public
witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Ordered reported the following
measures: H.R. 625, To designate the facility of the United States Postal
Service located at 4230 Maine Avenue in Baldwin Park, California, as the
"Atanacio Haro-Marin Post Office;" H.R. 1124, To extend the District of
Columbia College Access Act of 1999; H.R. 1402,To designate the facility of
the United States Postal Service located at 320 South Lecanto Highway in
Lecanto, Florida, as the "Sergeant Dennis J. Flanagan Lecanto Post Office
Building;" H.R. 1425, To designate the facility of the United States Postal
Service located at 4551 East 52nd Street in Odessa, Texas, as the "Staff
Sergeant Marvin "Rex" Young Post Office Building;" H.R. 988, To designate the
Facility of the United States Postal Service located at 5757 Tilton Avenue in
Riverside, California, as the "Lieutenant Todd Jason Bryant Post Office;" H.R.
1434, To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at
896 Pittsburgh Street in Springdale, Pennsylvania, as the "Rachel Carson Post
Office Building;" H. Con. Res. 88, Honoring the life of Ernest Gallo; H. Con.
Res. 71, Commemorating the 85th Anniversary of the founding of the American
Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), a leading association
for the Nation's 1.3 million American citizens of Greek Ancestry, and
Philhellenes; H. Res. 179, Expressing support for a National Foster Parents
Day; and H. Res. 273, Supporting the goals and ideals of Financial Literacy
Month.
[Page: D443]
The Committee began consideration of H.R. 401, National Capital Transportation
Amendments Act of 2007.
The Committee also approved Oversight Plans for the 110th Congress.
TAXPAYER FUNDED STADIUMS/FACILITIES
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Domestic Policy
held a hearing on Build It and They Will Come: Do Taxpayer-financed Sports
Stadiums, Convention Centers and Hotels deliver as promised for America's
Cities. Testimony was heard from Donald Korb, Chief Counsel, IRS, Department
of the Treasury.
NSF REAUTHORIZATION
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Research and Science
Education held a hearing on reauthorizing the National Science Foundation,
Part 2. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
NEXT GENERATION AIR TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics
held a hearing on JPDO and the Next Generation Air Transportation System:
Status and Issues. Testimony was heard from Charles Leader, Director, Joint
Planning and Development Office, FAA, Department of Transportation; and public
witnesses.
SMALL BUSINESSES--PATENT REFORM
Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing entitled "The Importance of Patent
Reform on Small Businesses." Testimony was heard from John Doll, Commissioner
of Patents, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Department of Commerce; and
Public witnesses.
FAA'S OVERSIGHT--OUTSOURCED AIR CARRIER MAINTENANCE
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing on the FAA's oversight of Outsourced Air Carrier Maintenance.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
Transportation: Nicholas Sabatini, Associate Administrator, Aviation Safety,
FAA; Calvin L. Scovel III, Inspector General; and public witnesses.
2007/03/30
Daily Digest - Friday, March 30, 2007; pages D473 - D474
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
[Page: D474]
2007/04/10
Daily Digest - Tuesday, April 10, 2007; pages D475 - D480
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
2007/04/11
Daily Digest - Wednesday, April 11, 2007; pages D481 - D486
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
2007/04/12
Daily Digest - Thursday, April 12, 2007; pages D488 - D494
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
2007/04/16
Daily Digest - Monday, April 16, 2007; pages D496 - D502
Committee Meetings
No Committee meetings were held.
2007/04/17
Daily Digest - Tuesday, April 17, 2007; pages D503 - D512
Committee Meetings
LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY
Committee on Agriculture, Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy and Poultry held a
hearing to review the market structure of the livestock industry. Testimony
was heard from James E. Link, Administrator, Grain Inspection, Packers and
Stockyards Administrator, USDA; and public witnesses.
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing on Army
Force Posture/Acquisition Overview. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of the Army: GEN Richard Cody, USA, Vice Chief of
Staff; and Claude Bolton, Assistant Secretary, Acquisition, Logistics and
Technology.
The Subcommittee also met in executive session to hold a hearing on U.S.
Central Command. Testimony was heard from ADM William Fallon, USN, Commander,
U.S. Central Command, Department of Defense.
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services and General
Government held a hearing on the FCC. Testimony was heard from Kevin J.
Martin, Chairman, FCC.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related
Agencies held a hearing on Indian Health Service. Testimony was heard from
Charles W. Grim, M.D., Director, Indian Health Service, Department of Health
and Human Services.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS' AFFAIRS AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans'
Affairs and Related Agencies held a hearing on Central Command. Testimony was
heard from ADM William J. Fallon, USN, Commander, Central Command, Department
of Defense.
TRANSPORTATION, HUD, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban
Development, and Related Agencies held a hearing on Federal Highway
Administration/Federal Transit Administration. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Transportation: Richard Kapka,
Administrator, Federal Highway Administration; and James Simpson,
Administrator, Federal Transit Administration.
PRESCRIPTION DRUG USER FEE ACT REAUTHORIZATION
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled "Reauthorization of the Prescription Drug User Fee Act." Testimony
was heard from Teresa M. Mullin, M.D., Assistant Commissioner, Planning, FDA,
Department of Health and Human Services; and public witnesses.
[Page: D508]
RISING MORTGAGE FORECLOSURES POSSIBLE RESPONSES
Committee on Financial Services: Held a hearing entitled "Possible Responses
to Rising Mortgage Foreclosures." Testimony was heard from Representatives
Kaptur and Turner; Sheila C. Bair, Chairman, FDIC; Brian Montgomery, Assistant
Secretary, Housing, Federal Housing Commissioner, Department of Housing and
Urban Development; Daniel H. Mudd, President and CEO, Fannie Mae; Richard F.
Syron, Chairman and CEO, Freddie Mac; and public witnesses.
KOSOVA--OUTLOOK FOR INDEPENDENCE
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on the Outlook for the
Independence of Kosova. Testimony was heard from R. Nicholas Burns, Under
Secretary, Political Affairs, Department of State.
U.S. COUNTERTERRORISM POLICY
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on International Organizations and
Human Rights and the Subcommittee on Europe held a joint hearing on
Extraordinary Rendition in the U.S. Counterterrorism Policy: The Impact on
Transatlantic Relations. Testimony was heard from the Michael F. Scheuer,
former Chief, Bin Laden Unit, CIA; and a public witness.
The Subcommittees also held a joint briefing on this subject. They were
briefed by the following Members of the European Parliament: Jonathan Evans,
Chairman, European Parliament Delegation for Relations with the United States;
Claudio Fava; and Baroness Sarah Ludford, Vice-Chairman, Temporary Committee
on the Alleged Use of European Countries by the CIA for the Transportation and
Illegal Detention of Prisoners.
SECURE HANDLING OF AMMONIUM NITRATE ACT
Committee on Homeland Security: Began mark up of H.R. 1680, Secure Handling of
Ammonium Nitrate Act of 2007.
Committee recessed subject to the call of the Chair.
OVERSIGHT--BANKRUPTCY CASES AND EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
held an oversight hearing on Executive Compensation in Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
Cases: How Much Is Too Much? Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT HATE CRIMES PREVENTION ACT OF 2007
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland
Security held a hearing on H.R. 1592, Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes
Prevention Act of 2007. Testimony was heard from Mark Shurtleff, Attorney
General, State of Utah; and public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--IMPLEMENTING OIL/GAS ENERGY POLICY
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources
held an oversight hearing on Implementation of Title III, the Oil and Gas
provisions of the Energy Policy Act of 2005. Testimony was heard from Abraham
Haspel, Assistant Deputy Secretary, Department of the Interior; Senator Curtis
Bramble, Majority Leader, Senate, State of Utah; and public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--CLIMATE CHANGE AND WILDLIFE/OCEANS
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans
held an oversight hearing on Wildlife and Oceans in a Changing Climate.
Testimony was heard from C. Mark Eakin, Coordinator, NOAA Coral Reef Watch,
NOAA Satellite Oceanography and Climate, Department of Commerce; and public
witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and
Public Lands held a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 554, Paleontological
Resources Preservation Act; H.R. 986, Eightmile Wild and Scenic River Act; H.
R. 1100, Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site Boundary Revision; and H.R.
1285, Snoqualmie Pass Land Conveyance Act. Testimony was heard from
Representatives McGovern, Courtney and Hastings of Washington; Sue Masica,
Chief of Staff, National Park Service, Department of the Interior; Frederick
Norbury, Associate Deputy Chief, National Forest System, Forest Service, USDA;
and public witnesses.
U.S. POSTAL SERVICE
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Federal
Workforce, Postal Service, and the District of Columbia held a hearing on the
U.S. Postal Service: 101. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the U.S. Postal Service: John E. Potter, Postmaster General/CEO; James C.
Miller, III, Chairman, Board of Governors; and David C. Williams, Inspector
General; Dan G. Blair, Chairman, Postal Regulatory Commission; Katherine A.
Siggerud, Director, Physical Infrastructure Issues, GAO; and public witnesses.
[Page: D509]
OVERSIGHT--WALTER REED
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on National Security, and Foreign
Affairs continued hearings on Is This Any Way to Treat Our Troops--Follow-up
on Corrective Measures Taken at Walter Reed and Other Medical Facilities
Caring for Wounded Soldiers. Testimony was heard from the following officials
of the Department of Defense: Michael L. Dominguez, Principal Deputy Under
Secretary (Personnel and Readiness); MG Gale S. Pollack, USA, Army Surgeon
General (Acting) and Commander, U.S. Army Medical Command; and MG Eric
Schoomaker, USA, Commander, Walter Reed Army Medical Center; and the following
officials of the Independent Review Group: Togo D. West, Jr., former Secretary
of Veterans Affairs and former Secretary of the Army; Jack Marsh, former
Secretary of the Army; Arnold Fisher; Lawrence Holland, Senior Enlisted
Advisor to the Secretary of Defense, Reserve Affairs; and Charles Roadman,
former Air Force Surgeon General.
SHAREHOLDER VOTE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION ACT
Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule with a preprinting
requirements. The rule provides 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 1257,
Shareholder Vote on Executive Compensation Act, equally divided and controlled
by the Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Financial
Services. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the
bill except for clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The rule provides that the
amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on
Financial Services now printed in the bill shall be considered as an original
bill for the purpose of amendment. The rule also provides that each section of
the amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be considered as read.
The rule makes in order only those amendments to the amendment in the nature
of a substitute that have been pre-printed in the Congressional Record on or
before Tuesday, April 17, 2007 or are pro forma amendments for the purpose of
debate. The rule provides that each amendment printed in the Congressional
Record may be offered only by the Member who caused it to be printed or a
designee, and that each amendment shall be considered as read. Finally, the
rule provides one motion to recommit with or without instructions. Testimony
was heard from Chairman Frank and Representative Bachus.
RECOVERY ACT
Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a structured rule. The rule
provides 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 1361, RECOVERY Act, equally divided
and controlled by the Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on
Small Business. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of
the bill except for clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The rule provides that the
amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Small
Business, modified by the amendment printed in Part A of the Rules Committee
report, shall be considered as adopted in the House and in the Committee of
the Whole. The bill as amended shall be considered as an original bill for the
purpose of further amendment and shall be considered as read. The rule waives
all points of order against provisions in the bill as amended, and provides
that no further amendments shall be in order except those amendments printed
in Part B of the Rules Committee report accompanying the resolution.
The rule provides that such further amendments made in order in Part B may be
offered 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 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 except for clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI.
Finally, the rule provides one motion to recommit with or without
instructions. Testimony was heard from Chairwoman Velazquez and Representative
Chabot.
CLIMATE CHANGE SCIENCE
Committee on Science and Technology: Held a hearing on the State of Climate
Change Science 2007: The Findings of the Fourth Assessment Report by the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Working Group II: Climate Change
Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
PUBLIC-PRIVATE CONTRACTING
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Highways and
Transit held a hearing on Public-Private Partnerships: Innovating Contracting.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
Transportation: James Ray, Acting Deputy Administrator, Federal Highway
Administration; and David B. Horner, Chief Counsel, Federal Transit
Administration; John Njord, Director, Department of Transportation, State of
Utah; and public witnesses.
[Page: D510]
ATMOSPHERIC DEPOSITION AND WATER QUALITY
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Water
Resources and Environment held a hearing on Nonpoint Source Pollution:
Atmospheric Deposition and Water Quality. Testimony was heard from Benjamin H.
Grumbles, Assistant Administrator, Office of Water, EPA; Arleen O'Donnell,
Acting Commissioner, Department of Environmental Protection, State of
Massachusetts; and public witnesses.
VETERANS MEASURES
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and
Memorial Affairs held a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 67, Veterans
Outreach Improvement Act of 2007; H.R. 1435, Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Backlog Reduction Act of 2007; H.R. 1444, To direct the Secretary of
Veterans Affairs to make interim benefit payments under certain remanded
claims; and H.R. 1490, To provide for a presumption of service-connectedness
for certain claims for benefits under the laws administered by the Secretary
of Veterans Affairs. Testimony was heard from Representatives McIntyre, Baca,
Donnelly, and Upton; Ronald R. Aument, Deputy Under Secretary, Benefits,
Department of Veterans Affairs; representatives of veterans organizations; and
public witnesses.
PERSONNEL AND SECURITY
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Personnel and Security. Testimony was heard from departmental
witnesses.
2007/04/18
Daily Digest - Wednesday, April 18, 2007; pages D514 - D524
Committee Meetings
ORGANIC AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Horticulture and Organic Agriculture
held a hearing to review the economic impacts of production, processing and
marketing of organic agricultural products. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing on Army
Reset. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
Army: LTG Stephen Speakes, G8; LTG Ann Dunwoody G4; and LTG William Mortensen,
Army Material Command.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on Army/Marine Corps Personnel Issues.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense:
LTG Michael D. Rochelle, USA, Deputy Chief of Staff, G1; and LTG Ronald S.
Coleman, USMC, Deputy Commandant, Manpower and Reserve Power.
FINANCIAL SERVICE AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS
Committee n Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services and General
Government held a hearing on the GSA. Testimony was heard from Lurita A. Doan,
Administrator, GSA.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related
Agencies continued appropriation hearing. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses (Native Americans).
U.S. CENTRAL COMMAND BUDGET
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on the Fiscal Year 2008 National
Defense Authorization Budget Request U.S. Central Command. Testimony was heard
from ADM William Fallon, USN, Commander, U.S. Central Command, Department of
Defense.
ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION FUELS
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held
a hearing entitled "Alternative Transportation Fuels: An Overview." Testimony
was heard from public witnesses.
MEDICARE PROGRAM EFFICIENCY AND INTEGRITY
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled "Medicare Program Efficiency and Integrity." Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the Department of Health and Human Services: Leslie
V. Norwalk, Acting Administrator, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services;
and Stuart E. Wright, Deputy Inspector General, Evaluation and Inspections;
Daniel S. Fridman, Senior Counsel to the Deputy Attorney General and Special
Counsel for Health Care Fraud, Department of Justice; and Mark E. Miller,
Executive Director, Medicare Payment Advisory Commission.
LEBANON'S POLITICAL SITUATION
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Middle East and South Asia held
a hearing on the Political Situation in Lebanon. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of State: C. David Welch, Assistant
Secretary, Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs; and Mark Ward, Senior Deputy
Assistant Administrator, Bureau for Asia and the Near East, U.S. Agency for
International Development.
ISOLATING PROLIFERATORS AND SPONSORS OF TERROR
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Terrorism, Nonproliferation and
Trade, and the Subcommittee on Domestic, and International Monetary Policy,
Trade and Technology of the Committee on Financial Services held a joint
hearing on Isolating Proliferators and Sponsors of Terror: The Use of
Sanctions and the International Financial System to Change Regime Behavior.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of the
Treasury: Daniel Glaser, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Terrorist Financing and
Financial Crimes, Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence; and Adam J.
Szubin, Director, Office of Foreign Assets Control; the following officials of
the Department of State: Paul E. Simons, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of
Economic, Energy, and Business Affairs; and Patricia McNerney, Principal
Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of International Security and
Nonproliferation; Sarah Steelman, Treasurer, State of Missouri; and public
witnesses.
[Page: D520]
NATIONAL SECURITY AND MEDICAL COUNTERMEASURES
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Emerging Threats,
Cybersecurity, and Science and Technology, hearing entitled "Can BioShield
Effectively Procure Medical Countermeasures that Safeguard the Nation?"
Testimony was heard from Jeffrey Runge, M.D., Assistant Secretary, Health
Affairs (Acting) and Chief Medical Officer, Office of Health Affairs,
Department of Homeland Security; and the following officials of the Department
of Health and Human Services: Gerry Parker, Principal Deputy Assistant
Secretary, Office of the Assistant Secretary, Preparedness and Response;
Anthony Fauci, M.D., Director, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious
Diseases, NIH; and Jesse Goodman, M.D., Director, Center for Biologics
Evaluation and Research, FDA.
SUBPOENAS REGARDING RECENT TERMINATION OF U.S. ATTORNEYS
Committee on the Judiciary: Postponed consideration of the following: a
resolution authorizing the Chairman to issue a subpoena to Monica Goodling for
testimony and related documents at a hearing before the Committee regarding
the circumstances surrounding recent terminations of U.S. Attorneys,
representations to Congress regarding those circumstances, and related
matters; and a resolution directing the House General Counsel to apply to a
United States district court for an order immunizing from use in prosecutions
the testimony of, and related information provided by, Monica Goodling under
compulsion at proceedings before or ancillary to the Committee regarding the
circumstances surrounding recent terminations of U.S. Attorneys,
representations to Congress regarding those circumstances, and related
matters.
The Committee also considered pending Committee business.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Held a hearing on the following bills: H.R.
1294, Thomasina E. Jordan Indian Tribes of Virginia Federal Recognition Act of
2006; and H.R. 65, Lumbee Recognition Act. Testimony was heard from Senator
Dole; Representatives McIntryre, Moran of Virginia, Scott of Virginia, Wolf;
Hayes, Jones of North Carolina, and McHenry; Carl J. Artman, Assistant
Secretary, Indian Affairs, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Department of the
Interior; and public witnesses.
NATIONAL CAPITAL TRANSPORTATION AMENDMENTS ACT OF 2007
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Ordered reported, as amended,
H.R. 401, National Capital Transportation Amendments Act of 2007.
ELECTRONIC VOTING SYSTEMS
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Information
Policy, Census and National Archives held a hearing on Ensuring Fairness and
Accuracy in Elections Involving Electronic Voting Systems. Testimony was heard
from Gracia Hillman, Commissioner, U.S. Election Assistance Commission;
Randolph Hite, Director, Information Technology Architecture and Systems, GAO;
Robin Carnahan, Secretary of State, State of Missouri; and public witnesses.
WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, a structured rule. The rule
provides for 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 1495, Water Resources
Development Act of 2007, equally divided and controlled by the Chairman and
Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the bill except
those arising under clause 9 or 10 of rule XXI. The rule makes in order the
amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure as an original bill for the purpose of
further amendment and shall be considered as read. The rule waives all points
of order against the committee amendment except those arising under clauses 9
or 10 of rule XXI.
The rule makes in order those amendments printed in the report and waives all
points of order against such amendments except those arising under clauses 9
or 10 of rule XXI. The rule provides one motion to recommit with or without
instructions. Finally, during consideration of H.R. 1495 in the House,
notwithstanding the operation of the previous question, the Chair may postpone
further consideration until a time designated by the Speaker. Testimony was
heard from Representatives Eddie Bernice Johnson, Welch of Vermont, Stupak,
Blumenauer and Baker.
SOWING THE SEEDS THROUGH SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING RESEARCH ACT
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, a structured rule. The rule
provides for 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 363, Sowing the Seeds Through
Science and Engineering Research Act, equally divided and controlled by the
Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Science and
Technology.
[Page: D521]
The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the bill except
those arising under clause 9 or 10 of rule XXI. The rule makes in order the
amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on
Science and Technology as the original bill for the purpose of further
amendment. The committee amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be
considered as an original bill and shall be considered as read. All points of
order against the committee amendment are waived except those arising under
clauses 9 or 10 of rule XXI.
The rule makes in order those amendments printed in the report and waives all
points of order against such amendments except those arising under clauses 9
or 10 of rule XXI. The rule provides one motion to recommit with or without
instructions. Finally, notwithstanding the operation of the previous question,
during consideration of the bill the Chair may postpone further consideration
to a time designated by the Speaker. Testimony was head from Chairman Gordon
and Representative Hall of Texas.
DC HOUSE VOTING RIGHTS ACT; AMEND INTERNAL REVENUE CODE TO ADJUST ESTIMATED
TAX PAYMENT SAFE HARBOR BASED ON INCOME FOR PRECEDING YEAR IN THE CASE OF
INDIVIDUALS WITH ADJUSTED GROSS INCOME GREATER THAN $5 MILLION
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 9 to 4, a closed rule. With respect
to H.R. 1905, the rule provides for 1 hour of debate on H.R. 1905, District of
Columbia House Voting Rights Act, equally divided and controlled by the
Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on the Judiciary. The
rule waives all points of order against the bill and its consideration of the
bill except those arising under clause 9 of rule XXI. The rule provides one
motion to recommit H.R. 1905 with or without instructions.
With respect to H.R. 1906, To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to
adjust the estimated tax payment safe harbor based on income for the preceding
year in the case of individuals with adjusted gross income greater than $5
million, the rule provides for 1 hour of debate equally divided and controlled
by the Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Ways and
Means. The rule waives all points of order against the bill and its
consideration except those arising under clauses 9 or 10 of rule XXI. The rule
provides one motion to recommit H.R. 1906 with or without instructions.
The rule further provides that, if either bill fails of passage or fails to
reach the question of passage by an order of recommittal, then both bills
shall be laid upon the table. Otherwise, in the engrossment of H.R. 1905, the
Clerk shall add the text of H.R. 1906 at the end and conform the resulting
bill. H.R. 1906 and H.R. 1433 shall be laid upon the table. Finally,
notwithstanding the operation of the previous question, during consideration
of either H.R. 1905 or H.R. 1906, the Chair may postpone further consideration
until a time designated by the Speaker. Testimony was heard from
Representative Issa.
OVERSIGHT--FEDERAL PROTECTIVE SERVICE DOWNSIZING
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Held an oversight hearing on
Proposals to Downsize the Federal Protective Service and Effects on the
Protection of Federal Buildings. Testimony was heard from Representative Wu;
Michael P. Jackson, Deputy Secretary, Department of Homeland Security; the
following employees of the Federal Protective Service: Inspector Michael J.
Brown; Inspector Sterling Proctor, Jr.; Corporal Stanley Nowak; and Officer
Jim Ward; and public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--COAST GUARD DEEPWATER REQUIREMENTS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Held an oversight hearing on
Compliance with Requirements of the Coast Guard's Deepwater Contract.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the U.S. Coast Guard,
Department of Homeland Security: Scott Sampson, Section Chief, Development
Section, U.S. Coast Guard Maintenance and Logistics Command Atlantic in the
Vessel Specifications Branch; Debu Ghosh, Naval Architect, Branch Chief, Boat
Engineering Branch; Joe Michael, Assistant Deputy, Systems Implementation,
Nationwide Automatic Identification System Project; LCDR Chad Jacoby, USCG,
Program Manager, Scaleable Composite Vessel Prototype Program Science and
Technology Directorate; Cathy Martindale, Contracting Office Chief,
Engineering and Logistics Center; and RADM Gary T. Blore, USCG, Program
Executive Officer, Integrated Deepwater System; VADM Paul E. Sullivan, USN,
Commander, Naval Sea Systems Command, U.S. Navy; and public witnesses.
VA HEALTHCARE ACCESS
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Ordered reported H.R. 1642, Homeless Veterans
Housing at Sepulveda Ambulatory Care Center Promotion Act.
[Page: D522]
WWII MERCHANT MARINE BENEFITS
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Held a hearing on H.R. 23, Belated Thank You
to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act of 2007. Testimony was heard from
Bradley G. Mayes, Director, Compensation and Pension Service, Veterans
Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs; former Merchant
Marine Combat Veterans; and representatives of U.S. Merchant Marine veterans
organizations.
VA HEALTH CARE
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on
access to VA Health Care: How Easy is it for Veterans? Addressing the Gaps.
Testimony was heard from Marcia Brand, M.D., Associate Administrator, Rural
Heath Policy, Health Resources Services Administration, Department of Health
and Human Services; Gerald Cross, M.D., Acting Principal Deputy Under
Secretary, Health, Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans
Affairs; and public witnesses.
ALL-SOURCE ANALYSIS
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Subcommittee on Terrorism, Human
Intelligence, Analysis and Counterintelligence met in executive session to
hold a hearing on All-Source Analysis. Testimony was heard from departmental
witnesses.
GEOPOLITICAL IMPLICATIONS--RISING OIL DEPENDENCE AND GLOBAL WARMING
Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming: Held a hearing
entitled "Geopolitical Implications of Rising Oil Dependence and Global
Warming." Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
2007/04/19
Daily Digest - Thursday, April 19, 2007; pages D526 - D534
Committee Meetings
FARM BILL CONSERVATION PROGRAMS
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Conservation, Credit, Energy and
Research held a hearing to review USDA Farm Bill conservation programs.
Testimony was heard from 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 continued hearings on Food
Safety and Inspection Service. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the USDA: Richard Raymond, Under Secretary, Food Safety; David
Goldman, Acting Administrator, Food Safety and Inspection Service; and W.
Scott Steele, Budget Officer.
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense met in executive session
to hold a hearing on U.S. Special Operations--Command. Testimony was heard
from GEN Doug Brown, Combatant Commander, Department of Defense.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and
Related Agencies continued appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from
Members of Congress and public witnesses.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative Branch held a hearing
on the GAO. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the GAO: David
Walker, Comptroller General; Gene Dodaro, Chief Operating Officer; and
Sallyanne Harper, Chief Administrative Officer.
STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and
Related Programs held a hearing on Public Diplomacy and Broadcasting Programs.
Testimony was heard from Karen Hughes, Under Secretary, Public Diplomacy and
Public Affairs, Department of State.
INTELLIGENCE/RECONNAISSANCE BUDGET
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Air and Land Forces held a
hearing on Fiscal Year 2008 National Defense Authorization Budget Request,
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance
capabilities. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the GAO:
Davi M. D'Agostino, and Sharon L. Pickup, both Directors, Defense Capabilities
and Management Issues; and Michael J. Sullivan, Director, Acquisition and
Sourcing Management Issues; and the following officials of the Department of
Defense: Joe Landon, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Command, Control,
Communication, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance; BG Walt Davis,
USA, Commander, Joint Unmanned Aircraft Systems Center of Excellence; LTG
David A. Deptula, USAF, Deputy Chief of Staff, Intelligence, Surveillance, and
Reconnaissance, U.S. Air Force; MG Jeffrey A. Sorenson, USA, Deputy,
Acquisition and Systems Management, Office of the Secretary of the Army
(Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology); RADM Bruce W. Clingan, USN, Deputy
Chief of Naval Operations, Deputy Director, Air Warfare; and BG Randolph
Alles, USMC, Commanding General, Marine Corps Warfighting Lab.
NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE--RENEWING THE SPIRIT
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Healthy Families and
Communities held a hearing on Renewing the Spirit of National and Community
Service. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
SPY ACT
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and
Consumer Protection approved for full Committee action, as amended, H.R. 964,
Securely Protect Yourself Against Cyber Trespass Act.
DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONS OUTLOOK
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the
Internet, continued hearings entitled "Digital Future of the United States:
Part III: Spectrum Opportunities and the Future of Wireless." Testimony was
heard from public witnesses.
FHA REFORM
Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Housing and Community
Opportunity held a hearing entitled "The Expanding American Homeownership Act
of 2007": H.R. 1852, to modernize and update the National Housing Act and
enable the Federal Housing Administration to use risk-based pricing to more
effectively reach under served borrowers; and related FHA Modernization
Issues. Testimony was heard from Brian D. Montgomery, Assistant Secretary,
Housing--Federal Housing Commissioner, Department of Housing and Urban
Development; and public witnesses.
[Page: D531]
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; DARFUR CRISIS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Favorably considered and adopted a motion urging
the Chairman to request that the following resolutions, as amended, be
considered on the Suspension Calendar: H. Res. 243, Calling on the Government
of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to immediately and unconditionally
release Father Nguyen Van Ly, Nguyen Van Dai, Le Thi Cong Nhan, and other
political prisoners and prisoners of conscience; H. Res. 272, Commemorating
the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade; and
H. Con. Res. 7, Calling on the League of Arab States to acknowledge the
genocide in the Darfur region of Sudan and to step up their efforts to stop
the genocide in Darfur.
The Committee also held a hearing on the Current Situation in Darfur.
Testimony was heard from Mia Farrow, Goodwill Ambassador, UNICEF; and public
witnesses.
FEDERAL SYSTEMS CYBER SECURITY
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Emerging Threats,
Cybersecurity, and Science Technology held a hearing entitled "Cyber
Insecurity: Hackers are Penetrating Federal Systems and Critical
Infrastructure." Testimony was heard from Dave Jarrell, Manager, Critical
Infrastructure Protection Program, Department of Commerce; Donald Reid, Senior
Coordinator, Security Infrastructure, Bureau of Diplomatic Security,
Department of State; Jerry Dixon, Director, National Cyber Security Division,
Department of Homeland Security; Greg Wilshusen, Director, Information
Security Issues, GAO; and public witnesses
HOMELAND SECURITY DEPARTMENT MORALE
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Management, Investigations,
and Oversight held a hearing entitled "Addressing the Department of Homeland
Security's Morale Crisis." Testimony was heard from Marta Brito Perez, Chief
Human Capital Officer, Department of Homeland Security; and public witnesses.
AIRPORT SECURITY IMPROVEMENTS
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Transportation and
Infrastructure Protection held a hearing entitled "Airport Security: The
Necessary Improvements to Secure America's Airports." Testimony was heard from
Kip Hawley, Assistant Secretary, Transportation Security Administration,
Department of Homeland Security; and public witnesses.
FEDERAL JUDICIAL COMPENSATION
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Courts, the Internet and
Intellectual Property held an oversight hearing on Federal Judicial
Compensation. Testimony was heard from the following Presiding Justices of the
U.S. Supreme Court: Stephen G. Breyer; and Samuel A. Alito.
IMMIGRATION REFORM
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship,
Refugees, Border Security and International Law held a hearing on Shortfalls
of 1986 Immigration Reform Legislation. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
Hearings continue tomorrow.
FEDERAL LANDS ENERGY OPPORTUNITIES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources
held an oversight hearing on Renewable Energy Opportunities and Issues on
Federal Lands: Review of Title II, Subtitle B-Geothermal Energy of EPAct; and
other renewable programs and proposals for public resources. Testimony was
heard from Jim Hughes, Director, Bureau of Land Management, Department of the
Interior; and public witnesses.
NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Insular Affairs held an
oversight hearing on Current Economic, Social and Security Conditions of the
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Testimony was heard from Pedro
A. Tenorio, Resident Representative, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana
Islands; David B. Cohen, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Insular Affairs,
Department of the Interior; and Jeanette Franzel, Director, Financial
Management and Assurance, GAO.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Natural Parks, Forests and
Public Lands approved for full Committee action the following measures: H.R.
359, amended, Cesar Estrada Chavez Study Act; H.R. 713, amended, Niagara Falls
National Heritage Area Act; H.R. 986, Eightmile Wild and Scenic River Act,
H.R. 1080, Grand Teton National Park Extension Act of 2007; H.R. 1100,
amended, Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site Boundary Revision Act of
2007; and H. Con. Res. 116, Expressing the sense of Congress that the National
Museum of Wildlife Art, located in Jackson, Wyoming, shall be designated as
the "National Museum of Wildlife Art of the United States."
[Page: D532]
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Water and Power approved for
full Committee action the following bills: H.R. 487, Cheyenne River Sioux
Tribe Equitable Compensation Amendments Act of 2007; H.R. 1114, Alaska Water
Resources Act of 2007; H.R. 1140, South Orange County Recycled Water
Enhancement Act; H.R. 1337, to provide for a feasibility study of alternatives
to augment the water supplies of the Central Oklahoma Master Conservancy
District and cities served by the District; and H.R. 1662, to amend the
Reclamation Safety of Dams Act of 1978 to authorize improvements for the
security of dams and other facilities.
CONTRACTOR TAX ENFORCEMENT
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Organization and Procurement held a hearing on the following
measures: H.R. 1870, Contractor Tax Enforcement Act; and H.R. 1865, To amend
title 31, United States Code, to allow certain local tax debt to be collected
through the reduction of Federal tax funds. Testimony was heard from Paul A.
Denett, Administrator, Office of Federal Procurement Policy, OMB; J. Russell
George, Inspector General, Tax Administration, Department of the Treasury;
Gregory D. Kutz, Managing Director, Forensic Audits and Special
Investigations, GAO; and public witnesses.
NSF AUTHORIZATION
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Research and Science
approved for full Committee, as amended, H.R. 1867, National Science
Foundation Authorization Act of 2007.
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION AND MANUFACTURING STIMULATION ACT OF 2007
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Technology and Innovation
approved for full Committee action, as amended, H.R. 1868, Technology
Innovation and Manufacturing Stimulation Act of 2007.
SMALL BUSINESSES' FEDERAL CONTRACTS
Committee on Small Business:, Held a hearing entitled "Expanding Small
Businesses' Access to Federal Contracts." Testimony was heard from Paul Hsu,
Associate Administrator, Government Contracting and Business Development, SBA;
and public witnesses.
HIGH-SPEED RAIL SYSTEMS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Subcommittee on Railroads,
Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials held a hearing on High-Speed Rail Systems.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
AGRICULTURE'S IMPACT ON WATER QUALITY
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Water
Resources and Environment held a hearing on Nonpoint Source Pollution: The
Impact of Agriculture on Water Quality. Testimony was heard from Richard
Coombe, Regional Assistant Chief, Natural Resources Conservation Service,
USDA; Craig Hooks, Director, Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds, Office
of Water, EPA; and public witnesses.
VETERANS EDUCATION/TRAINING PROGRAMS
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity held a
hearing on State Approving Agencies. Testimony was heard from George Scott,
Acting Director, Education, Workforce, and Income Security Issues, GAO; John
McWilliam, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Veterans' Employment and Training
Service, Department of Labor; Carol Griffiths, Chief, Accrediting Agency
Evaluation Unit, Accreditation and State Liaison Staff, Department of
Education; Keith M. Wilson, Director of Education Service, Department of
Veterans Affairs.
SALISBURY VA MEDICAL CENTER INVESTIGATIONS
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
held a hearing on Surgical Services at the W.G. (Bill) Hefner VA Medical
Center in Salisbury, North Carolina. Testimony was heard from John D. Daigh,
M.D., Assistant Inspector General, Healthcare Inspections, Office of the
Inspector General; and the following officials of the Department of Veterans
Affairs: Sidney Steinberg, M.D., Chief of Staff, W.G. (Bill) Hefner VA Medical
Center; and William F. Feeley, Deputy Under Secretary, Health, for Operations
and Management.
ENERGY AND TAX POLICY
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Select Revenue Measures held a
hearing on Energy and Tax Policy. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
NATIONAL CLANDESTINE SERVICE/HUMAN INTELLIGENCE
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Meet in executive session to hold
a hearing on National Clandestine Service/Human Intelligence. Testimony was
heard from departmental witnesses.
2007/04/20
Daily Digest - Friday, April 20, 2007; pages D536 - D544
Committee Meetings
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing on Guard
and Reserve--Oversight. Testimony was heard from LTG H. Steven Blum, USA,
Chief of the National Guard Bureau; LTG Jack C. Stultz, USAR, Chief of Army
Reserve; VADM John G, Cotton, USN, Chief of Naval Reserve; LTG John A.
Bradley, USAF, Chief, Air Force Reserve; and LTG John W. Bergman, USMC,
Commander, Marine Forces Reserve.
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services and General
Government held a hearing on the District of Columbia. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the District of Columbia: Adrian M. Fenty,
Mayor; Vincent C. Gray, Chairman, City Council; and Natwar M. Gandhi, Chief
Financial Officer.
READING FIRST PROGRAM INVESTIGATION
Committee on Education and Labor: Held a hearing on Mismanagement and
Conflicts of Interest in the Reading First Program. Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the Department of Education: John P. Higgins, Jr.,
Inspector General; and Edward Kame'enui, Commissioner, National Center for
Special Education Research; Starr Lewis, Associate Commissioner, Office of
Teaching and Learning, Department of Education, State of Kentucky; Christopher
Doherty, former Program Director, Reading First, Department of Education; and
public witnesses.
LOS ALAMOS NATIONAL LAB MISMANAGEMENT
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
held a hearing entitled "Department of Energy's Response to Ongoing
Mismanagement at the Los Alamos National Labs." Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Energy: Samuel W. Bodman, Secretary;
and Gregory H. Friedman, Inspector General; and Michael R, Anastasio,
Director, Los Alamos National Laboratory.
FEDERAL HOMELAND SECURITY CONTRACTING
Committee on Homeland Security: Held a hearing entitled "Responsibility in
Federal Homeland Security Contracting." Testimony was heard from Elaine Duke,
Chief Procurement Officer, Department of Homeland Security; and public
witnesses.
IMMIGRATION REFORM
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship,
Refugees, Border Security and International Law continued hearings on
Shortfalls of 1986 Immigration Reform Legislation. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses.
AVIATION CONSUMER ISSUES
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing on Aviation Consumer Issues. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Meeks of New York; Thompson of California and Schmidt; the
following officials of the Department of Transportation: Calvin L. Scovel,
III, Inspector General; and Andrew B. Steinberg, Assistant Secretary, Aviation
and International Affairs; and public witnesses.
FEMA'S EMERGENCY SUPPLY SYSTEM
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Economic
Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management held a hearing on
FEMA's Emergency Food Supply System. Testimony was heard from Harvey Johnson,
Deputy Administrator, FEMA, Department of Homeland Security; and Larry Glasco,
Deputy Director, Logistics Operations and Readiness, Defense Logistics Agency,
Department of Defense.
2007/04/23
Daily Digest - Monday, April 23, 2007; pages D545 - D550
Committee Meetings
NCLB: PREVENTING DROPOUTS AND ENHANCING SCHOOL SAFETY
Committee on Education and Labor: Held a hearing on NCLB: Preventing Dropouts
and Enhancing School Safety. Testimony was heard from Jane P. Norwood,
Vice-Chair, Board of Education, State of North Carolina; and public witnesses.
10,000 TEACHERS, 10 MILLION MINDS SCIENCE AND MATH SCHOLARSHIP ACT
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, a structured rule. The rule
provides for 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 362, 10,000 Teachers, 10 Million
Minds Science and Math Scholarship Act, equally divided and controlled by the
Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Science and
Technology.
The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the bill except
those arising under clause 9 or 10 of rule XXI. The rule makes in order the
amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on
Science and Technology as the original bill for the purpose of further
amendment. The committee amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be
considered as an original bill and shall be considered as read. All points of
order against the committee amendment are waived except those arising under
clauses 9 or 10 or rule XXI.
The rule makes in order those amendments printed in the report and waives all
points of order against such amendments except those arising under clauses 9
or 10 of rule XXI. The rule provides one motion to recommit with or without
instructions. Finally, notwithstanding the operation of the previous question,
during consideration of the bill the Chair may postpone further consideration
to a time designated by the Speaker. Testimony was heard form Representatives
Lipinski and Hall of Texas.
2007/04/24
Daily Digest - Tuesday, April 24, 2007; pages D551 - D562
Committee Meetings
FEDERAL MILK MARKETING ORDERS
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry held a
hearing to review the Federal Milk Marketing Order rulemaking procedures.
Testimony was heard from Lloyd Day, Administrator, Agricultural Marking
Service, USDA; Kelly Krug, Director, Marketing Services, Department of Food
and Agriculture, State of California; and public witnesses.
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AND FEDERAL AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and
Related Agencies continued appropriation hearings. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses.
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing on Navy
and Marine Corps Force Posture and Acquisition Overview. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Navy: Delores M. Etter;
Assistant Secretary; VADM Jonathan W. Greenert, USN, Deputy Chief, Naval
Operations for Integration of Capabilities and Resources; and LTG Emerson
Gardner, USMC, Deputy Commandant, Policy and Integration.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Woodrow Wilson Center/Kennedy Center.
Testimony was heard from Lee H. Hamilton, Director, Woodrow Wilson Center; and
Michael M. Kaiser, Director, Kennedy Center.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative Branch held a hearing
on the Capitol Visitors Center. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Architect of the Capitol's Office: Stephen Ayers, Acting
Architect; Douglas Jacobs, Project Executive, Capitol Visitors Center; and
David Ferguson, Chief Administrative Officer; and Terrell Dorn,
Director-Physical Infrastructure Issues, GAO.
ENSURING EQUAL PAY FOR WOMEN
Committee on Education and Labor: Held a hearing on Strengthening the Middle
Class: Ensuring Equal Pay for Women. Testimony was heard from Representatives
DeLauro and Norton; and public witnesses.
OSHA STANDARDS/WORKPLACE HAZARDS
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Workforce Protections held a
hearing on Have OSHA Standards Kept Up With Workplace Hazards? Testimony was
heard from Edwin Foulke, Assistant Secretary, OSHA, Department of Labor; and
public witnesses.
ENERGY DEPARTMENT LOAN GUARANTEE PROGRAM
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held
a hearing entitled "Implementation of EPACT 2005 Loan Guarantee Programs by
the Department of Energy." Testimony was heard from Dennis R. Spurgeon, Acting
Under Secretary, Department of Energy; James C. Cosgrove, Acting Director,
Natural Resources and Environment, GAO; and public witnesses.
[Page: D557]
FDA FOOD SUPPLY SAFETY
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
held a hearing entitled "Diminished Capacity: Can the FDA Assure the Safety
and Security of the Nation's Food Supply?" Testimony was heard from Lisa
Shames, Acting Director, Natural Resources and Environment, GAO; and public
witnesses.
OVERSEAS DIGITAL BROADBAND LESSONS
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunication and the
Internet continued hearings entitled "Digital Future of the United States:
Part IV: Broadband Lessons from Abroad." Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
TERRORISM RISK INSURANCE
Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Capital Markets, Insurance,
and Government Sponsored Enterprises held a hearing entitled "Policy Options
for Extending the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act." Testimony was heard from
public witnesses.
AIDS RELIEF
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on PEPFAR: An Assessment of
Progress and Challenges. Testimony was heard from Mark R. Dybul, U.S. Global
AIDS Coordinator, Department of State.
U.S.-COLUMBIA RELATIONS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere held a
hearing on U.S.-Columbia Relations. Testimony was heard from Representative
Hastert; the following officials of the Department of State: Anne W.
Patterson, Assistant Secretary, Bureau of International Narcotics and Law
Enforcement Affairs; and Charles Shapiro, Principal Deputy Assistant
Secretary, Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs; Mark Schneider, former
Director, Peace Corps; Robert Charles, former Assistant Secretary, Bureau of
International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Department of State; and
public witnesses.
AVIATION SECURITY--PILOT PROGRAM TO SCREEN AIRPORT WORKERS
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Transportation Security and
Infrastructure Protection approved for full Committee action, as amended, H.R.
1413, To direct the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (Transportation
Security Administration) to address vulnerabilities in aviation security by
carrying out a pilot program to screen airport workers with access to secure
and sterile areas of airports.
TULSA GREENWOOD RIOT ACCOUNTABILITY ACT
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Constitution, Civil Rights and
Civil Liberties held a hearing on H.R. 1995, Tulsa Greenwood Race Riot Claims
Accountability Act of 2007. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland
Security approved for full Committee action H.R. 1592, Local Law Enforcement
Hate Crimes Act of 2007.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 1700, COPS
Improvement Act of 2007; H.R. 916, John R. Justice Prosecutors and Defenders
Incentive Act of 2007; and H.R. 933, Witness Security and Protection Act of
2007. Testimony was heard from Mark Epley, Senior Counsel, Office of the
Deputy Attorney General, Department of Justice; Kamala D. Harris, District
Attorney, City of San Francisco, California; and public witnesses.
EMPLOYMENT VERIFICATION WORKSITE ENFORCEMENT
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship,
Refugees, Border Security, and International Law held a hearing on Problems in
the Current Employment Verification and Worksite Enforcement System. Testimony
was heard from Jonathan R. Scharfen, Deputy Director, United States
Citizenship and Immigration Services, Department of Homeland Security; and
public witnesses.
OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF RENEWABLE ENERGY
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans
and the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources held a joint hearing on
Renewable Energy Opportunities and Issues on the Outer Continental Shelf.
Testimony was heard from Mike Olsen, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Land and
Minerals Management, Department of the Interior; Ann F. Miles, Director,
Division of Hydropower Licensing, Office of Energy Projects, Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission, Department of Energy; Tim Keeney, Deputy Assistant
Secretary, Oceans and Atmosphere, NOAA, Department of Commerce; and public
witnesses.
BATTLEFIELD MISINFORMATION INCIDENTS
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Held a hearing on Misleading
Information from the Battlefield. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Defense: Thomas F. Gimble, Acting Inspector
General; BG Rodney Johnson, USA, Army Criminal Investigative Command;
Specialist Bryan O'Neil, USA; Sr. Chief Stephen White, USN, Navy Seal and LTC
John Robinson, USA, Director, Media Services Division, Soldiers Media Center;
and public witnesses.
[Page: D558]
CENSUS 2010 PREPARATION
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Information
Policy, Census and National Archives held a hearing on Preparations for the
2010 Census. Testimony was heard from Preston Jay Waite, Associate Director,
Decennial Census, U.S. Census Bureau, Department of Commerce; Mathew J. Scire,
Director, Strategic Issues, GAO; Joseph J. Salvo, Director, Population
Division, Department of City Planning, New York City; and public witnesses.
SMALL BUSINESS LENDING IMPROVEMENTS ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, a structured rule. The rule
provides 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 1332, Small Business Lending
Improvements Act of 2007, equally divided and controlled by the Chairman and
Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Small Business. The rule waives
all points of order against consideration of the bill except for clauses 9 and
10 of rule XXI. The rule provides that the amendment in the nature of a
substitute recommended by the Committee on Small Business now printed in the
bill shall be considered as an original bill for the purpose of amendment and
shall be considered as read. The rule waives all points of order against the
committee amendment in the nature of a substitute.
The rule makes in order only those amendments printed in this report and
provides that they may be offered only in the order printed in this report,
may be offered only by a Member designated in this report, shall be considered
as read, shall be debatable for the time specified in this 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 except for
clauses 9 and 10 of rule XXI. The rule provides one motion to recommit with or
without instructions. Finally, the rule provides that, notwithstanding the
operation of the previous question, the Chair may postpone further
consideration of the bill to a time designated by the Speaker. Testimony was
heard from Chairman Velazquez and Representatives Matheson, Chabot, and
Boozman.
TO RESTORE THE PROHIBITION ON THE COMMERCIAL SALE AND SLAUGHTER OF WILD
FREE-ROAMING HORSES AND BURROS
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, an open rule with a pre-printing
requirement. The rule provides one hour of general debate on H.R. 249, to
restore the prohibition on the commercial sale and slaughter of wild
free-roaming horses and burros, equally divided and controlled by the chairman
and ranking minority member of the Committee on Natural Resources.
The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the bill except
those arising under clauses 9 and 10 of rule XXI. The rule provides that the
bill shall be considered as read. The rule provides that notwithstanding
clause 11 of rule XVIII, no amendment to the bill shall be in order except
those printed in the portion of the Congressional Record designated for that
purpose in clause 8 of rule XVIII and except pro forma amendments for the
purpose of debate. Each amendment so printed may be offered only by the Member
who caused it to be printed or his designee and shall be considered as read.
The rule provides one motion to recommit with or without instructions. Finally
the rule provides that, notwithstanding the operation of the previous
question, the Chair may postpone further consideration of the bill to a time
designated by the Speaker. Testimony was heard from Representative Rahall.
U.S. TROOP READINESS, VETERANS' CARE, KATRINA RECOVERY, AND IRAQ
ACCOUNTABILITY APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, a rule waiving all points of
order against the conference report to accompany H.R. 1591, U.S. Troop
Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability
Appropriations Act, 2007, making emergency supplemental appropriations for the
fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes, and against its
consideration. The rule provides that the conference report shall be
considered as read. Testimony was heard from Chairman Obey and Representative
Lewis of California.
REAUTHORIZE SBA PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES RELATING TO PROCUREMENT
Committee on Small Business: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 1873, To
reauthorize the programs and activities of the Small Business Administration
relating to procurement.
BUY AMERICA
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Highways and
Transit held a hearing on Buy America. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Transportation: J. Richard Capka,
Administrator, Federal Highway Administration; and James S. Simpson,
Administrator, Federal Transit Administration; Randall Iwasaki, Chief Deputy
Director, Department of Transportation, State of California; John B. Catoe,
Jr., General Manager, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority; and
public witnesses.
[Page: D559]
VETERANS MEASURES
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and
Memorial Affairs approved for full Committee action, as amended, H.R. 1660, to
direct the Secretary of Veterans' Affairs to establish a national Cemetery for
Veterans in the southern Colorado region.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on Helping Those Left Behind: Are We
Doing Enough for the Parents, Spouses and Children of Veterans. Testimony was
heard from Representatives Ellsworth and Latham; Jack McCoy, Associate Deputy
Under Secretary, Policy and Program Management, Veterans Benefits
Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs; representatives of veterans'
organizations; and public witnesses.
ENERGY AND TAX POLICY
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Select Revenue Measures held a
hearing on Member proposals on Energy and Tax Policy. Testimony was heard from
Representatives McDermott, Jefferson, Peterson of Minnesota, Pomeroy,
Blumenauer, Berkley, Nunes, Doyle, Weldon of Florida, McGovern, Terry,
Ferguson, Shimkus, Grijalva, Tim Murphy of Pennsylvania, Baird, Davis of
Kentucky, and Inslee.
INTELLIGENCE MATTERS
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on Intelligence Matters. Testimony was heard from departmental
witnesses.
2007/04/25
Daily Digest - Wednesday, April 25, 2007; pages D564 - D574
Committee Meetings
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and
Related Agencies continued appropriations. Testimony was heard from Members of
Congress.
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing on
Shipbuilding (Industry Officials). Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on Shipbuilding (Navy Officials).
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of the
Navy: Allison Stiller, Deputy Assistant Secretary; RADM Charles H. Goddard,
USN, Program Executive Officer for Ships; and RADM William H. Hilarides, USN,
Program Executive Officer for Submarines.
IRAQI SECURITY FORCES CONTRACTING
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held
a hearing on Contracting for the Iraqi Security Forces. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the Department of Defense: Gary J. Motsek,
Assistant Deputy Under Secretary, Program Support; and COL Anita M. Raines,
USA, Chief, Logistics Service Division J4 Directorate, Joint Staff; Anne W.
Patterson, Assistant Secretary, International Narcotics and Law Enforcement
Affairs, Department of State; Bruce Swartz, Deputy Assistant Attorney General,
Criminal Division, Department of Justice; and public witnesses.
STUDENT LOAN INDUSTRY ETHICS
Committee on Education and Labor: Held a hearing on Examining Unethical
Practices in the Student Loan Industry. Testimony was heard from Andrew M.
Cuomo, Attorney General, State of New York.
UNREGULATED PERCHLORATE EXPOSURE
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Environment and Hazardous
Materials held a hearing entitled "Perchlorate: Health and Environment Impacts
of Unregulated Exposure." Testimony was heard from Alex Beehler, Assistant
Deputy Under Secretary, Environment Safety and Occupational Health, Department
of Defense; the following officials of the EPA: Benjamin Grumbles, Assistant
Administrator, Office of Water; Susan Parker Bodine, Assistant Administrator,
Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response; and George Gray, Assistant
Administrator, Office of Research and Development; John B. Stephenson,
Director, Natural Resources and Environment, GAO; the following officials of
the Department of Health and Human Services: James Pirkle, M.D., Deputy
Director, Sciences, Division of Laboratory Sciences, National Center for
Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; and Robert
E. Brackwett, Director, Center for Food and Safety and Nutrition, FDA; Gary
Ginsberg, Department of Public Health, State of Connecticut; and public
witnesses.
HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled "Living Without Health Insurance: Why Every American Needs Coverage."
Testimony was heard from Michael K. Smith, Secretary, Agency of
Administration, State of Vermont; former Senator Thomas A. Daschle of South
Dakota; and public witnesses.
INDUSTRIAL BANK HOLDING COMPANY ACT OF 2007
Committee on Financial Services: Held a hearing on H.R. 698, Industrial Bank
Holding Company Act of 2007. Testimony was heard from Sheila C. Bair,
Chairman, FDIC; Donald L. Kohn, Vice Chairman, Board of Governors, Federal
Reserve System; John M. Reich, Director, Office of Thrift Supervision; Robert
Colby, Deputy Director, Market Regulation, SEC, G. Edward Leary, Commissioner,
Department of Financial Institutions, State of Utah; and public witnesses.
MALARIA AWARENESS DAY
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health held a
hearing on Malaria Awareness Day: Leveraging Progress for Future Advances.
Testimony was heard from ADM Timothy Ziemer, USN (Ret.), Malaria Initiative
Coordinator, U.S. Agency for International Development, Department of State;
and public witnesses.
[Page: D571]
MILITARY'S CIVIL AUTHORITY DISASTER SUPPORT
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Emergency Communications,
Preparedness and Response held a hearing entitled "Examining the Military's
Support of Civil Authorities During Disasters." Testimony was heard from MG
Terry L. Scherling, USAF, Director, Joint Staff, National Guard Bureau,
Department of Defense; MG Timothy J. Lowenberg, Adjutant General, State of
Washington; MG Tony Pineda, National Commander, Civil Air Patrol. Glenn
Cannon, Assistant Administrator, Disaster Operations, FEMA, Department of
Homeland Security; and Mike Womack, Director, Emergency Management Agency,
State of Mississippi.
CYBERSECURITY CHALLENGES
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Emerging Threats,
Cybersecurity, and Science and Technology held a hearing entitled "Addressing
the Nation's Cybersecurity Challenges: Reducing Vulnerabilities Requires
Strategic Investment and Immediate Action." Testimony was heard from Douglas
Maughan, Program Manager, Cyber Security R&D, Science and Technology
Directorate, Department of Homeland Security; and public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Management, Investigations,
and Oversight, hearing entitled "Strong Oversight at the Department of
Homeland Security: A Predicate to Good Government." Testimony was heard from
Norman J. Rabkin, Managing Director, Homeland Security and Justice Team, GAO;
and Paul A. Schneider, Under Secretary, Management, Department of Homeland
Security.
SUBPOENAS; MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on the Judiciary: Approved the following: a resolution directing the
House General Counsel to apply to a United States district court for an order
immunizing from use in prosecutions the testimony of, and related information
provided by, Monica Goodling under compulsion at proceedings before or
ancillary to the Committee regarding the circumstances surrounding recent
terminations of U.S. Attorneys, representations to Congress regarding those
circumstances, and related matters; and a resolution authorizing the Chairman
to issue a subpoena to Monica Goodling for testimony and related documents at
a hearing before the Committee regarding the circumstances surrounding recent
terminations of U.S. Attorneys, representations to Congress regarding those
circumstances, and related matters.
The Committee also ordered reported the following measures: H.R. 1592,
amended, Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2007; H.R. 692,
amended, Army Specialist Joseph P. Micks Federal Flag Code Amendment Act of
2007; and H. Res. 314, Supporting the goals of World Intellectual Property
Day.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Ordered reported, as amended, the following
bills: H.R. 65, Lumbee Recognition Act; H.R. 1294, Thomasina E. Jordon Indian
Tribes of Virginia Federal Recognition Act of 2006; and H.R. 1328, Indian
Health Care Improvement Act Amendments of 2007.
PUERTO RICO MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Insular Affairs continued
hearings on the following bills: H.R. 900, Puerto Rico Democracy Act of 2007;
and H.R. 1230, Puerto Rico Self Determination Act of 2007. Testimony was heard
from C. Kevin Marshall, Co-Chair, Task Force on Puerto's Political Status and
Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legal Counsel, Department of
Justice; the following officials of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico: Anibal
Acevedo Vila, Governor and former Member of Congress; Pedro Rossello, former
Governor and Current Senator; Kenneth D. McClintock, President, Senate; Jose
Aponte-Hernandez, Speaker, House of Representatives; Jose L. Dalmau-Santiago,
Senate Minority Leader; and Hector Ferrer-Rios, House Minority Leader; Rafael
Hernandez Colon, former Governor, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico; Carlos Romero
Barcelo, former Governor and Member of Congress, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico;
and public witnesses.
ISSUANCE OF SUBPOENAS
Committee on Oversight and Government: Approved the following: issuance of a
subpoena to the Republican National Committee for documents and for Mike
Duncan to testify before the Committee on May 8, 2007; issuance of a subpoena
to the Republican National Committee for documents; and issuance of a subpoena
to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice to testify before the Committee.
FEDERAL ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION CORRIDORS
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Domestic Policy
held a hearing on the examination of Section 1221 on the Energy Policy Act of
2005 by the Department of Energy. Testimony was heard from Kevin Kolevar,
Director, Office of Electricity Reliability, Department of Energy;
Representative Bill DeWeese, Majority Leader, House of Representatives, State
of Pennsylvania; Assemblyman Paul D. Tonko, Chair, Committee on Energy,
Assembly, State of New York; Kurt Adams, Chairman Public Utilities Commission,
State of Maine; Elizabeth Merritt, Deputy General Counsel, National Trust for
Historic Preservation; and public witnesses.
[Page: D572]
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Science and Technology: Ordered reported the following measures:
H.R. 1867, amended, National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2007;
H.R. 1868, amended, Technology Innovation and Manufacturing Stimulation Act of
2007; H. Con. Res. 95, amended, Honoring the career and research
accomplishments of Frances E. Allen, the 2006 recipient of the A.M. Turing
Award; and H. Res. 316, Recognizing the accomplishments of Roger D. Kornberg,
Andrew Fire, Craig Mello, John C. Mather, and George F. Smott for being
awarded Novel Prizes in the fields of chemistry, physiology or medicine, and
physics.
AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing on Essential Air Services Program/Small Community Air Service
Development Program. Testimony was heard from Representatives Everett and
Thompson of California; Gerald L. Dillingham, Director, Physical
Infrastructure Issues, GAO; Michael W. Reynolds, Deputy Assistant Secretary,
Aviation and International Affairs, Department of Transportation; and public
witnesses.
COMMERCIAL FISHING VESSEL SAFETY
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Coast Guard
and Maritime Transportation held a hearing on Commercial Fishing Vessel
Safety. Testimony was heard from Representative Frank of Massachusetts; RADM
Craig Bone, USCG, Assistant Commandant, Prevention, U.S. Coast Guard,
Department of Homeland Security; and public witnesses.
MEDICARE TRUSTEES REPORT
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on 2007
Medicare Trustees Report. Testimony was heard from Richard S. Foster, Chief
Actuary, Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Department of Health and
Human Services.
BRIEFING--HOT-SPOTS
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to
receive a briefing on Hot-Spots. The Committee was briefed by departmental
witnesses.
2007/04/26
Daily Digest - Thursday, April 26, 2007; pages D575 - D584
Committee Meetings
FARM CROP PROVISIONS
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk
Management, hearing to review proposals to amend the program crop provisions
of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002. Testimony was heard
from public witnesses.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and
Related Agencies held a hearing on Climate Change. Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the Department of the Interior: Tom Armstrong,
Senior Advisor, Global Change Programs, U.S. Geological Survey; Lynn Scarlett,
Deputy Secretary; Sam D. Hamilton, Regional Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service; Dan Kimball, Superintendent, Everglades National Park, and Don L.
Neubacher, Superintendent, Point Reyes National Seashore, both with the
National Park Service; Ron Huntsinger, National Science Coordinator, and Mike
Pellant, Great Basin Restoration Initiative Coordinator, both with the Bureau
of Land Management; and Jim Hubbard, Deputy Chief, State and Private Forestry,
Forest Service, USDA.
LABOR, HHS, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education, and Related Agencies held a hearing of the Secretary of Labor.
Testimony was heard from Elaine Chao, Secretary of Labor.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative Branch held a hearing
on the Office of Compliance/Congressional Budget Office. Testimony was heard
from Peter Orszag, Director, CBO; Tamara Chrisler, Acting Executive Director;
and Peter Eveleth, General Counsel, both with the Office of Compliance.
CREDIT CARD PRACTICES
Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and
Consumer Credit held a hearing entitled "Credit Card Practices: Current
Consumer and Regulatory Issues." Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
SECURE HANDLING OF AMMONIUM NITRATE ACT OF 2007
Committee on Homeland Security: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 1680,
Secure Handling of Ammonium Nitrate Act of 2007.
SAFE PORT ACT
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Border, Maritime and Global
Counterterrorism held a hearing entitled "The SAFE Port Act: A Six-Month
Review." Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
Homeland Security: ADM Craig E. Bone, USCG, Assistant Commandant, Prevention,
U.S. Coast Guard; Jayson Ahern, Assistant Commissioner, Office of Field
Operations, Customs and Border Protection; and Maurine S. Fanguy, Program
Director, Transportation Worker Identification Credential Program,
Transportation Security Administration; Stephen L. Caldwell, Director,
Homeland Security and Justice Issues, GAO; George P. Cummings, Director,
Homeland Security, Port of Los Angeles, California; Richard A. Wainio, Port
Director and CEO, Tampa Port Authority, Florida; and public witnesses.
GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SHARING/CLASSIFICATION
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Intelligence, Information
Sharing and Terrorism Risk Assessment held a hearing entitled "The
Over-Classification and Pseudo-Classification of Government Information: The
Response of the Program Manager of the Information Sharing Environment."
Testimony was heard from Ambassador Thomas E. McNamara, Program Manager,
Information Sharing Environment, Office of the Director of National
Intelligence; Carter Morris, Director, Informational Sharing and Knowledge
Management, Office of Intelligence and Analysis, Department of Homeland
Security; Wayne M. Murphy, Assistant Director, Directorate of Intelligence,
FBI, Department of Justice; COL Bart R. Johnson, New York State Police; and
Mark Zadra, Assistant Commissioner, Department of Law Enforcement, Florida.
[Page: D579]
PATIENT REFORM ACT OF 2007
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Courts, The Internet, and
Intellectual Property held a hearing on H.R. 1908, Patent Reform Act of 2007.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
EMPLOYER CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK ACCESS
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland
Security approved for full Committee action the following bills: H.R. 1700,
COPS Improvements Act of 2007; and H.R. 916, John R. Justice Prosecutors and
Defenders Incentive Act of 2007.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on Employer Access to Criminal Background
Checks: The Need for Efficiency and Accuracy. Testimony was heard from Frank
Campbell, Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legal Policy,
Department of Justice; and public witnesses.
ELECTRONIC EMPLOYMENT VERIFICATION AND WORKSITE ENFORCEMENT SYSTEM
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship,
Refugees, Border Security and International Law held a hearing on Proposals
for Improving the Electronic Employment Verification and Worksite Enforcement
System. Testimony was heard from Representatives Calvert, Dreier, Reyes,
Gutierrez, and Flake; and public witnesses.
OCEANS CONSERVATION, EDUCATION, AND NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR 21ST CENTURY ACT
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans
held a hearing on H.R. 21, Oceans Conservation, Education, and National
Strategy for the 21st Century Act. Testimony was heard from Representatives
Farr and Allen; Jack Dunnigan, Assistant Administrator, Ocean Services and
Coastal Zone Management, NOAA, Department of Commerce; and public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--ONSHORE OIL AND GAS LEASING DEVELOPMENT
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and
Public Lands and the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources held a joint
oversight hearing on Land-use Issues Associated with Onshore Oil and Gas
Leasing Development. Testimony was heard from Representative Peterson of
Pennsylvania; Henri Bisson, Deputy Director, Bureau of Land Management,
Department of Interior; Tony L. Ferguson, Director, Minerals and Geology
Management, Forest Service, USDA; John Emmerich, Deputy Director, Department
of Game and Fish, State of Wyoming; and public witnesses.
PLATTE RIVER RECOVERY
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Water and Power held a hearing
on H.R. 1462, Platte River Recovery Implementation Program and Pathfinder
Modification Authorization Act. Testimony was heard from Jason Peltier, Deputy
Assistant Secretary, Water and Science, Bureau of Reclamation, Department of
Interior; Ann Bleed, Executive Director, Department of Natural Resources,
State of Nebraska; Ted Kowalski, Program Manager, Water Conservation Board,
State of Colorado; Mike Purcell, Director, Water Development Commission, State
of Wyoming; and public witnesses.
ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY--ENERGY
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment
held a hearing on Establishing the Advanced Research Projects
Agency--Energy--H.R. 364, To provide for the establishment of the Advanced
Research Projects Agency--Energy. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
FEDERAL REGULATORY SYSTEM
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Investigations and
Oversight held a hearing on Amending Executive Order 12866: Good Governance or
Regulatory Usurpation? Part II. Testimony was heard from Steve Aitken, General
Counsel, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, OMB; and public
witnesses.
SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATION REAUTHORIZATION
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Technology and Innovation
held a hearing on Small Business Innovation Reauthorization on the 25th
Program Anniversary. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
IRS TAX GAP PROPOSALS
Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing entitled "Closing the Tax Gap
Without Creating Burdens for Small Businesses." Testimony was heard from Mark
W. Everson, Commissioner, Internal Revenue, IRS, Department of the Treasury;
and public witnesses.
[Page: D580]
OVERSIGHT--FEMA'S PREPAREDNESS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Economic
Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management held an oversight
hearing on FEMA's Preparedness and Response to All Hazards. Testimony was
heard from VADM Harvey Johnson, USCG (Ret.) Deputy Administrator, FEMA,
Department of Homeland Security; and public witnesses.
VETERANS MEASURES
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on the
following bills: H.R. 92, Veterans' Timely Access Health Care Act; H.R. 315,
Help Establish Access to Local Timely Healthcare for Your Veterans (Healthy
Vets) Act of 2007; H.R. 339, Veterans' Outpatient Care Access Act of 2007;
H.R. 463, Honor Our Commitment to Veterans Act; H.R. 538, South Texas
Veterans' Access to Care Act of 2007; H.R. 542, To require the Department of
Veterans Affairs to provide mental health services in languages other than
English, as needed, for veterans with limited English proficiency; H.R. 1426,
Richard Helm Veterans' Access to Local Health Care Options and Resources; H.R.
1470, Chiropractic Care Available to All Veterans Act; H.R. 1471, Better
Access to Chiropractors to Keep Our Veterans' Health Act (BACK Veterans'
Health Act); H.R. 1527, Rural Veterans' Access to Care Act; and a draft
discussion on the Rural Health Care bill and a proposed TBI bill. Testimony
was heard from Chairman Filner; and Representatives Ginny Brown-Waite of
Florida; Pearce, Rothman, Ortiz, Solis, Latham, Moran of Kansas and Altmire;
Gerald M. Cross, Acting Principal Deputy Under Secretary, Health, Veterans
Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs; and representatives of
veterans organizations.
POVERTY REDUCTION
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Income Security and Family
Support held a hearing on Poverty Reduction. Testimony was heard from Linda
Gibbs, Deputy Mayor, Health and Human Services, City of New York; and public
witnesses.
R&D AND SYSTEMS ACQUISITION
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to hold a
hearing on R&D and Systems Acquisition. Testimony was heard from departmental
witnesses.
DANGEROUS CLIMATE CHANGE
Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming: Held a hearing
entitled "Dangerous Climate Change." Testimony was heard from James Hansen,
Director, Goddard Institute for Space Studies, NASA; and public witnesses.
2007/04/30
Daily Digest - Monday, April 30, 2007; pages D585 - D588
Committee Meetings
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense met in executive session
to hold a hearing on the Missile Defense Agency. Testimony was heard from
departmental witnesses.
2007/05/01
Daily Digest - Tuesday, May 1, 2007; pages D590 - D600
Committee Meetings
CROP INSURANCE INDUSTRY
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk
Management held a hearing to review the crop insurance industry. Testimony was
heard from. The following officials of the USDA: Keith Collins, Chief
Economist; and Eldon Gould, Administrator, Risk Management Agency; and public
witnesses.
RURAL BROADBAND PROGRAMS
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Specialty Crops, Rural Development,
and Foreign Agriculture held a hearing on review of rural broadband programs
operated by the USDA's Rural Utilities Service. Testimony was heard from James
Andrew, Rural Utilities Service, USDA; and public witnesses.
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing on Health
Personnel Overview. Testimony was heard from David S. C. Chu, Under Secretary,
Personnel and Readiness, Department of Defense.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on Preventative Medicine and Cancers
Programs. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of Defense: Ellen Embry, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Force Health Protection
and Readiness and Director, Deployment Health Support; BG Michael B. Cates,
USA, Commander, U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventative
Medicine; BG Theresa Casey, M.D., USAF, Assistant Surgeon General for
Modernization; RADM David Smith, USN, Deputy Chief of Staff for Health Care
Operations; and COL Janet Harris, Director, Congressionally Director Medical
Research Program; and public witnesses.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative Branch continued
appropriations hearings. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
FINANCING COLLEGE EDUCATION
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong
Learning and Competitiveness held a hearing on "Paying For a College
Education: Barriers and Solutions for Students and Families." Testimony was
heard from public witnesses.
APPLIANCE EFFICIENCY STANDARDS
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held
a hearing entitled "Achieving--At Long Last--Appliance Efficiency Standards."
Testimony was heard from Alexander A. Karsner, Assistant Secretary, Energy
Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of Energy; Arthur H. Rosenfeld,
Commissioner, Energy Commission, State of California; and public witnesses.
HEART DISEASE EDUCATION, ANALYSIS RESEARCH, AND TREATMENT FOR WOMEN ACT
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on
H.R. 1014, Heart Disease Education, Analysis Research, and Treatment for Women
Act. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION RESEARCH
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on
H.R. 20, Melanie Blocker-Stokes Postpartum Depression Research and Care Act.
Testimony was heard from Catherine Roca, M.D. Chief, Women's Programs,
National Institutes of Mental Health, Department of Health and Human Services;
and public witnesses.
U.S. CHINA RELATIONS FUTURE
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on the Future of Political,
Economic and Security Relations with China. Testimony was heard from John D.
Negroponte, Deputy Secretary, Department of State.
FEDERAL PROTECTIVE SERVICE
Committee on Homeland Security: Held a hearing entitled "The Direction and
Viability of the Federal Protective Service." Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Homeland Security: James L. Taylor,
Deputy Inspector General; and Gary Schenkel, Director, Federal Protective
Service; and public witnesses.
SUBPOENA ISSUANCE; BANKRUPTCY ABUSE AND CONSUMER PROTECTION
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
approved a resolution authorizing the Chairman to issue a subpoena to James
Comey for testimony and related documents at a hearing before the Committee
regarding the circumstances surrounding recent terminations of U.S.
Attorney's, representatives to Congress regarding those circumstances, and
related matters.
[Page: D595]
The Committee also held a hearing on the Second Anniversary of the Enactment
of the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005: Are
Consumers Really Being Protected Under the Act. Testimony was heard from
Yvonne D. Jones, Director, Financial Markets and Community Investment, GAO;
and public witnesses.
INTERNET SPYWAVE PREVENTION ACT; SECURING AIRCRAFT COCKPITS
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland
Security approved for full Committee action the following bills: H.R. 1525,
Internet Spyware (I-SPY) Prevention Act of 2007; and H.R. 1615, Securing
Aircraft Cockpits Against Lasers Act of 2007.
Prior to this action, the Subcommittee held a hearing on these measures.
Testimony was heard from Representatives Zoe Lofgren of California, Goodlatte,
and Keller.
POINT SYSTEMS FOR SELECTING IMMIGRANTS
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship,
Refugees, Border Security, and International Law held a hearing on An
Examination of Point Systems as a Method for Selecting Immigrants. Testimony
was heard from Senator Sessions; the following Foreign Law Specialists, Law
Library of Congress: Clare Feikert; Stephen F. Clarke, Senior Foreign Law
Specialist; and Lisa White; and public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--FUTURE OF FOSSIL FUELS
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources
and the Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands held a joint
oversight hearing on The Future of Fossil Fuels: Geological and Terrestrial
Sequestration of Carbon Dioxide. Testimony was heard from Patrick Leahy,
Associate Director, U.S. Geological Survey, Department of the Interior; Carl
Bauer, Executive Director, National Energy Technology Laboratory, Department
of Energy; and public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--WINDS TURBINES WILDLIFE IMPACTS
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans
held an oversight hearing on Gone with Wind: Impacts of Wind Turbines on Birds
and Bats. Testimony was heard from Representative Mollohan; Dale Hall,
Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior; and
public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; FDA CHALLENGES
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Ordered reported the following
measures: H.R. 1873, amended, Small Business Fairness in Contracting Act; H.R.
2080, To amend the District of Columbia Home Rule Act to conform the District
charter to revisions made by the Council of the District of Columbia relating
to public education; H.R. 2081, amended, To amend the District of Columbia
Home Rule Act to increase the salary of the Chief Financial Officer of the
District of Columbia; H.R. 1617, To designate the facility of the United
States Postal Service located at 561 Kingsland Avenue in University City,
Missouri, as the "Harriett F. Woods Post Office Building;" H.R. 2025, To
designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 11033
South State Street in Chicago, Illinois, as the "Willye B. White Post Office
Building;" H. Res. 53, Recognizing the life of Lamar Hunt and his outstanding
contributions to the Kansas City Chiefs, the National Football League, and the
United States; H.R. 1722, To designate the facility of the United States
Postal Service located at 601 Banyan Trail in Boca Raton, Florida, as the
"Leonard W. Herman Post Office;" H. Con. Res. 105, Supporting the goals and
ideals of a National Suffragists Day to promote awareness of the importance of
the women suffragists who worked for the right of women to vote in the United
States; H. Res. 307, Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that
public servants should be commended for their dedication and continued service
to the National during Public Service Recognition Week, May 7 through 13,
2007; H.R. 1335, To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service
located at 508 East Main Street in Seneca, South Carolina, as the "S/Sgt Lewis
G. Watkins Post Office Building;" H.R. 1260, To designate the facility of the
United States Postal Service located at 6301 Highway 58 in Harrison,
Tennessee, as the "Claude Ramsey Post Office;" H. Con. Res. 117, Commemorating
the 400th Anniversary of the settlement of Jamestown; and H. Res. 291,
Supporting the goals and ideals of Peace Officers Memorial Day.
The Committee also held a hearing on FDA's Critical Mission and Challenges for
the Future. Testimony was heard from Andrew C. Von Eschenbach, M.D.,
Commissioner, FDA, Department of Health and Human Services; and the following
former Commissioners of the FDA: Donald Kennedy; Frank Young, M.D., and David
Kessler, M.D.
[Page: D596]
IMPROVING HEAD START ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, a structured rule. The rule
provides 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 1429, Improving Head Start Act of
2007, equally divided and controlled by the Chairman and Ranking Minority
Member of the Committee on Education and Labor. The rule waives all points of
order against consideration of the bill except for clauses 9 and 10 of Rule
XXI. The rule provides that the amendment in the nature of a substitute
recommended by the Committee on Education and Labor shall be considered as an
original bill for the purpose of amendment and shall be considered as read.
The rule waives all points of order against the committee amendment in the
nature of a substitute except for clauses 9 and 10 of Rules XXI.
The rule makes in order only those amendments printed in this report and
provides that they may be offered only in the order printed in this report,
may be offered only by a Member designated in this report, shall be considered
as read, shall be debatable for the time specified in this 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 except for
clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The rule provides one motion to recommit with or
without instructions. Finally, the rule provides that, notwithstanding the
operation of the previous question, the Chair may postpone further
consideration of the bill to a time designated by the Speaker. Testimony was
heard from Chairman George Miller of California; and Representatives Kildee,
Welch of Vermont, Kennedy, Carnahan, Shuler, McKeon, Castle, Fortuno, Mica,
Putnam and Porter.
TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION AND MANUFACTURING STIMULATION ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, a structured rule. The rule
provides 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 1868, Technology Innovation and
Manufacturing Stimulation Act of 2007, equally divided and controlled by the
chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on Science and
Technology. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the
bill except clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The rule provides that the amendment
in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Science and
Technology now printed in the bill shall be considered as an original bill for
the purpose of amendment and shall be considered as read. All points of order
against the committee amendment in the nature of a substitute are waived
except clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI.
The rule makes in order only those amendments printed in this report. The
amendments made in order may be offered only in the order printed in this
report, may be offered only by a Member designated in this report, shall be
considered as read, shall be debatable for the time specified in this 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. All points of
order against the amendments except for clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI are
waived. The rule provides one motion to recommit with or without instructions.
The rule provides that, notwithstanding the operation of the previous
question, the Chair may postpone further consideration of the bill to a time
designated by the Speaker. Testimony was heard from Representatives Wu, Hall
of Texas, and Manzullo.
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, an open rule with a preprinting
requirement. The rule provides 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 1867, National
Science Foundation Act of 2007, equally divided and controlled by the chairman
and ranking minority member of the Committee on Science and Technology.
The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the bill except
those arising under clauses 9 and 10 of rule XXI. The rule makes in order the
amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on
Science and Technology as an original bill for the purpose of amendment. The
rule waives all points of order against the amendment in the nature of a
substitute except clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The rule provides that
notwithstanding clause 11 of rule XVIII, no amendment to the committee
amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be in order except those printed
in the portion of the Congressional Record designated for that purpose in
clause 8 of rule XVIII and except pro forma amendments for the purpose of
debate. Each amendment so printed may be offered only by the Member who caused
it to be printed or his designee and shall be considered as read. The rule
provides one motion to recommit with or without instructions. Finally the rule
provides that, notwithstanding the operation of the previous question, the
Chair may postpone further consideration of the bill to a time designated by
the Speaker. Testimony was heard from Representatives Baird, Hall of Texas and
Weldon of Florida.
[Page: D597]
SSA's DISABILITY CLAIMS BACKLOG
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Social Security held a hearing to
examine the SSA's ability to hire Administrative Law Judges to address the
growing disability claims backlog. Testimony was heard from Michael J. Astrue,
Commissioner, SSA; and Linda M. Springer, Director, OPM.
2007/05/02
Daily Digest - Wednesday, May 2, 2007; pages D601 - D610
Committee Meetings
USDA'S SECURITY BRANCH
Committee on Agriculture: Held a hearing on review of the USDA's release of
program beneficiaries' Social Security numbers and the Department's
information systems, generally. Testimony was heard from Charles
Christopherson, Chief Financial Officer, USDA.
AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
FDA, and Related Agencies Appropriations held a hearing on Farm and Foreign
Agricultural Services. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
USDA: Mark E. Keenum, Under Secretary, Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services;
Teresa A. Lasseter, Administrator, Farm Service Agency; Eldon Gould,
Administrator, Risk Management Agency; and W. Scott Steele, Budget Officer.
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing on the
Defense Health Program Overview. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Defense: S. Ward Casscells, MD, Assistant
Secretary, Health Affairs; MG Gale S. Pollock, USA, M.D., Acting Surgeon
General, U.S. Army; VADM Donald C. Arthur, USN, M.D., Surgeon General, U.S.
Navy; and LTG James G. Roudebush, USAF,. MD, Surgeon General, U.S. Air Force.
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Air and Land Forces approved for
full Committee action H.R. 1585, National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal
Year 2008.
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Military Personnel approved for
full Committee action H.R. 1585, National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal
Year 2008.
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Strategic Forces approved for
full Committee action H.R. 1585, National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal
Year 2008.
PROTECTING CONSUMER ACCESS TO GENERIC DRUGS ACT OF 2007
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and
Consumer Protection held a hearing on H.R. 1902, Protecting Consumer Access to
Generic Drugs Act of 2007. Testimony was heard from Jon Leibowitz,
Commissioner, FTC; and public witnesses.
BIOSIMILAR MEDICINES POLICY
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled "Assessing the Impact of a Safe and Equitable Biosimilar Policy in
the United States." Testimony was heard from Janet Woodcock, M.D., Deputy
Commissioner and Chief Medical Officer, FDA, Department of Health and Human
Services; and public witnesses.
INDUSTRIAL BANK HOLDING COMPANY ACT OF 2007; EXPANDING HOMEOWNERSHIP ACT OF
2007
Committee on Financial Services: Ordered reported as amended, H.R. 698,
Industrial Bank Holding Company Act of 2007.
The Committee began markup of H.R. 1852, Expanding American Homeownership Act
of 2007.
Will continue tomorrow.
STATE DEPARTMENT COUNTRY REPORTS ON HUMAN RIGHTS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on International Organizations,
Human Rights, and Oversight held a hearing to review the State Department's
2006 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices. Testimony was heard from Barry
F. Lowenkron, Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and
Labor, Department of State.
CONTESTED ELECTION--13TH DISTRICT OF FLORIDA
Committee on House Administration: The Election Task Force met to discuss
matters pertaining to the Contested Election in the 13th Congressional
District of Florida.
The following motions were adopted: a motion that the Task Force initiate an
investigation of the Florida 13th Congressional District election; adopted a
motion authorizing and directing to secure the assistance of the GAO, which
shall be requested to design and propose testing protocols to determine the
reliability of the equipment used in the FL-13 election, taking into account
recommendations by the contestant and contestee; the Task Force shall approve
any testing protocols prior to execution by the GAO. The GAO may procure such
expertise and assistance from governmental or non-governmental experts and
entities as it deems necessary, and shall report its findings to the task
force.
[Page: D607]
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on the Judiciary: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 1700,
amended, COPS Improvements Act of 2007; H.R. 916, amended, John R. Justice
Prosecutors and Defenders Incentive Act of 2007; H.R. 1525, Internet Spyware
(I-SPY) Prevention Act of 2007; and H.R. 1615, Security Aircraft Cockpits
Against Lasers Act of 2007.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R.
1595, amended, Guam World War II Loyalty Recognition Act; H.R. 359, amended,
Cesar Estrada Chavez Study Act; H.R. 713, amended, Niagara Falls National
Heritage Area Act; H.R. 1100, amended, Carl Sandburg Home National Historic
Site Boundary Revision Act of 2007; H.R. 986, amended, Eightmile Wild and
Scenic River Act; H.R. 505, Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act of
2007; H.R. 487, Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Equitable Compensation Amendments
Act of 2007; H.R. 1114, Alaska Water Resources Act of 2007; H.R. 1080, Grand
Teton National Park Extension Act of 2007; and H.R. 1140 South Orange County
Recycled Water Enhancement Act.
MEDICAID CHILDREN'S DENTAL PROGRAM
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Domestic Policy
held a hearing on Evaluating Children's Dentistry Under Medicaid. Testimony
was heard from James Cosgrove, Director, Health Care, GAO; Dennis Smith,
Director, Center for Medicaid and State Operations, Department of Health and
Human Services; Susan Tucker, Executive Director, Office of Health Services,
Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, State of Maryland; and public
witnesses.
LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT HATE CRIMES PREVENTION ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by vote of 9 to 4, a closed rule. The rule
provides 1 hour of debate on H.R. 1592, Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes
Prevention Act of 2007, equally divided and controlled by the Chairman and
Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on the Judiciary. The rule waives all
points of order against consideration of the bill except for clauses 9 and 10
of rule XXI. The rule provides that the amendment in the nature of a
substitute recommended by the Committee on the Judiciary, modified by the
amendment printed in the report, shall be considered as adopted, and the bill,
as amended, shall be considered as read. The rule waives all points of order
against the bill, as amended. The rule provides one motion to recommit with or
without instructions. Finally, the rule provides that, notwithstanding the
operation of the previous question, the Chair may postpone further
consideration of the bill to a time designated by the Speaker. Testimony was
heard from Chairman Conyers and Representatives Smith of Texas, Daniel E.
Lungren of California, Gohmert and Weldon of Florida.
NASA SPACE SCIENCE PROGRAM
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics
held a hearing on NASA's Space Science Programs: Review of Fiscal Year 2008
Budget Request and Issues. Testimony was heard from Alan Stern, Associate
Administrator, Science Mission Directorate, NASA; and public witnesses.
VETERANS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE
Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight held
a hearing entitled "Is the Veterans Corporation Prepared To Provide
Entrepreneurial Development Assistance to Service Men and Women Returning From
Iraq and Afghanistan?" Testimony was heard from William D. Elmore, Associate
Administrator, Office of Veterans Business Development, SBA; and public
witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES; U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS SURVEY RESOLUTIONS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Ordered reported the following
measures: H. Res. 352, Supporting the goals and ideals of National Public
Works Week; H. Con. Res. 79, Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for
the Greater Washington Soap Box Derby; H. Con. Res. 123, Authorizing the Use
of the Capitol Grounds for the District of Columbia Special Olympics Law
Enforcement Torch Run; H. Con. Res. 124, Authorizing the Use of the Capitol
Grounds for the National Peace Officers' Memorial Service; H.R. 1505, amended,
To designate the Federal building located at 131 East 4th Street in Davenport,
Iowa, as the "James A. Leach Federal Building;" H.R. 1773, amended, Safe
American Roads Act of 2007. The Committee also approved U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers Survey Resolutions.
FISCAL YEAR 2008 INTELLIGENCE AUTHORIZATION ACT
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session and
ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 2082, Intelligence Authorization Act for
Fiscal Year 2008.
2007/05/03
Daily Digest - Thursday, May 3, 2007; pages D612 - D620
Committee Meetings
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense met in executive session
to hold a hearing on Mobility Aircraft. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the Department of Defense: Sue C. Payton, Assistant Secretary,
Air Force Acquisition; and GEN Duncan J. McNabb, USAF, Commander, Air Mobility
Command; and Christopher Bolkcom, Specialist in National Defense,
Congressional Research Service.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on Joint Strike Fighter and Tactical
Aircraft. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department
of Defense: LTG Carrol H. Chandler, USAF, Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations,
Plans and Requirements; BG Charles R. Davis, USAF, Program Executive Officer,
F-35 Lightning II Program; LTG John G. Castellaw, USAF, Deputy Commandant,
Aviation; and Bruce W. Clingan, USN, Director, Air Warfare.
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Seapower and Expeditionary Forces
approved for full Committee action H.R. 1585, National Defense Authorization
Act for Fiscal Year 2008.
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Terrorism, Unconventional Threats
and Capabilities approved for full Committee action H.R. 1585, National
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008.
PENSION PROTECTION
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor
and Pensions held a hearing on Retirement Security: Strengthening Pension
Protections. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
ELECTRIC GRID TRANSITION
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held
a hearing entitled "Facilitating the Transition to a Smart Electric Grid."
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Energy:
Kevin Kolevar, Director, Office of Energy Delivery and Electricity
Reliability; and Jon Wellinghoff, Commissioner, Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission; Robert F. Lieberman, Commissioner, Commerce Commission, State of
Illinois; and public witnesses.
EXPANDING AMERICAN HOMEOWNERSHIP ACT OF 2007
Committee on Financial Services: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 1852,
Expanding American Homeownership Act of 2007.
U.S.-EUROPE MISSILE DEFENSE SYSTEM
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Europe and the Subcommittee on
Terrorism, Nonproliferation and Trade held a joint hearing on Do the United
States and Europe Need A Missile Defense System? Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of State: Daniel Fried, Assistant
Secretary, Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs; and John C. Rood,
Assistant Secretary, Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation.
ARAB OPINION ON AMERICAN POLICIES
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on International Organizations,
Human Rights, and Oversight and the Subcommittee on Middle East and South Asia
held a joint hearing on Arab Opinion on American Policies, Values, and People.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
COMMITTEE BUSINESS
Committee on House Administration: Met to discuss pending Committee business.
[Page: D618]
U.S. ATTORNEYS CONTROVERSY
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law
continued hearings on the Continuing Investigation into the U.S. Attorneys
Controversy. Testimony was heard from James B. Comey, former Deputy Attorney
General, Department of Justice.
COURT SECURITY IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2008
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland
Security held a hearing on H.R. 660, Court Security Improvement Act of 2007.
Testimony was heard from John F. Clark, U.S. Marshal, Eastern District of
Virginia, Department of Justice; David Bryan Sentelle, Judge, U.S. Court of
Appeals, District of Columbia; Chairman, Judicial Conference Committee on
Judicial Security; and Robert M. Bell, Chief Judge, Court of Appeals, State of
Maryland.
IMMIGRATION REFORM
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship,
Refugees, Border Security, and International Law held a hearing on the U.S.
Economy, U.S. Workers, and Immigration Reform. Testimony was heard from
Representative King of Iowa; Patricia Buckley, Senior Economic Adviser to the
Secretary, Department of Commerce; Leon R. Sequeira, Assistant Secretary,
Policy, Department of Labor; Peter R. Orszag, Director, CBO; and public
witnesses.
INTERNATIONAL TRADE IN ENDANGERED SPECIES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans
held an oversight hearing on the Convention of International Trade in
Endangered Species (CITES) as a precursor to the Conference of the Parties.
Testimony was heard from Todd, Willens, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Fish and
Wildlife and Parks, Department of the Interior; Osborne Earl Baker III,
Department of Natural Resources, State of South Carolina; and public
witnesses.
FEDERAL CROP INSURANCE PROGRAM OVERSIGHT
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Held a hearing on Waste, Fraud,
and Abuse in the Federal Crop Insurance Program. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the USDA: Eldon Gould, Administrator, Risk Management
Agency; and Phyllis K. Fong, Inspector General; Lisa Shames, Acting Director,
National Resources and Environment, GAO; and public witnesses.
CONCURRENT BUDGET RESOLUTION FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a rule to provide for
consideration in the House of S. Con Res. 21, Setting forth the congressional
budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2008 and including the
appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2007 and 2009 through 2012. The
rule waives all points of order against consideration of the concurrent
resolution and provides that the concurrent resolution shall be considered as
read. An amendment in the nature of a substitute consisting of the text of H.
Con. Res. 99, as adopted by the House, shall be considered as adopted. The
rule waives all points of order against the concurrent resolution, as amended,
and provides that, if the concurrent resolution, as amended, is adopted then
it shall be in order to move that the House insist on its amendment and
request a conference with the Senate.
GLOBAL CHANGE RESEARCH PROGRAM
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment
held a hearing on Reorienting the U.S. Global Change Research Program Toward a
user-driven research endeavor, H.R. 906, Global Change Research Data
Management Act of 2007. Testimony was heard from James R. Mahoney, former
Assistant Secretary, Oceans and Atmosphere and Deputy Administrator, NOAA,
Department of Commerce; and public witnesses.
TRANSITING ENVIRONMENTAL MEASUREMENTS LABORATORY TO DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND
SECURITY
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Investigations and
Oversight held a hearing on Transitioning the Environmental Measurements
Laboratory to the Department of Homeland Security. Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the Department of Homeland Security: John F.
Clarke, Deputy Director, Office of National Laboratories, Science and
Technology Directorate; Jay M. Cohen, Under Secretary, Science and Technology;
and Vayl Oxford, Director, Domestic Nuclear Detection Office; Tony Feinberg,
former Program Manager, Radiological and Nuclear Countermeasures, Office of
Research and Development, Science and Technology Directorate, Department of
Homeland Security; Lynn Albin, Radiation Health Physicist, Office of Radiation
Protection, Department of Health, State of Washington; and a public witness..
RENEWABLE ENERGY PRODUCTION RURAL IMPACTS
Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing entitled "The Impact of Renewable
Energy Production in Rural America." Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
[Page: D619]
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSIONS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Economic
Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management held a hearing on The
Southeast Crescent Authority, The Northern Border Economic Development
Commission, and the Southwest Regional Border Authority. Testimony was heard
from Senator Dole; and Representatives Hodes, Welch of Vermont; McIntyre,
Hayes, Butterfield, Reyes, Filner, Hinojosa, Rodriguez and Cuellar.
VETERANS EDUCATION BENEFITS
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity held a
hearing on Accelerated Education Benefits for Veterans. Testimony was heard
from Representative Michaud; the following officials of the Department of
Veterans Affairs: James Bombard, Chairman, Veterans' Advisory Committee on
Education; and Keith M. Wilson, Director, Education Service; representatives
of veterans organizations; and a public witness.
LOW-INCOME MEDICARE BENEFICIARY MEDICARE PROGRAMS
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on
financial assistance programs for low-income Medicare beneficiaries. Testimony
was heard from Representatives Doggett and Altmire; S. Lawrence Kocot, Senior
Advisor to the Administrator, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services,
Department of Health and Human Services; Beatrice Disman, Regional
Commissioner, New York Region, SSA; J. Ruth Kennedy, Medicaid Deputy Director,
Department of Health and Hospitals, State of Louisiana; and public witnesses.
ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF GLOBAL WARMING
Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming: Held a hearing
entitled "Economic Impacts of Global Warming: Part I--Insurance." Testimony
was heard from John B. Stephenson, Director, Natural Resources and
Environment, GAO; Mike Kreidler, Commissioner of Insurance, State of
Washington; and a public witness.
2007/05/04
Daily Digest - Friday, May 4, 2007; pages D622 - D626
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
2007/05/07
Daily Digest - Monday, May 7, 2007; pages D627 - D632
Committee Meetings
SELECT INTELLIGENCE OVERSIGHT PANEL
Committee on Appropriations: Select Intelligence Oversight Panel met in
executive session to hold a hearing on the National Geospatial Agency.
Testimony was heard from departmental witnesses.
THOMASINA E. JORDAN INDIAN TRIBES OF VIRGINIA FEDERAL RECOGNITION ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by non-record vote, a closed rule. The rule
provides 1 hour of debate on H.R. 1294, Thomasina E. Jordon Indian Tribes of
Virginia Federal Recognition Act of 2007, in the House equally divided and
controlled by the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on
Natural Resources.
The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the bill except
for clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The amendment in the nature of a substitute
recommended by the Committee on Natural Resources now printed in the bill,
modified by the amendments printed in the report of the Committee on Rules,
shall be considered as adopted and the bill, as amended, shall be considered
as read. The rule waives all points of order against the bill, as amended. The
rule provides one motion to recommit with or without instructions. Finally,
the rule provides that the Chair may postpone further consideration of the
bill to a time designated by the Speaker. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Grijalva and Moran of Virginia.
2007/05/08
Daily Digest - Tuesday, May 8, 2007; pages D634 - D642
Committee Meetings
WELFARE OF ANIMALS IN AGRICULTURE
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry held a
hearing to review the welfare of animals in agriculture. Testimony was heard
from former Representative Charles W. Stenholm of Texas; and public witnesses.
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Readiness approved for full
Committee action H.R. 1585, National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year
2008.
SUPERVISOR MISCLASSIFICATION
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Health, Education, Labor and
Pensions held a hearing on "Are NLRB and Court Rulings Misclassifying Skilled
and Professional Employees as Supervisors?" Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
ALTERNATIVE FUELS
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held
a hearing entitled "Alternative Fuels: Current Status, Proposals for New
Standards, and Related Infrastructure Issues." Testimony was heard from Robert
J. Meyers, Associate Assistant Administrator, Office of Air and Radiation,
EPA; Alexander A. Karsner, Assistant Secretary, Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy, Department of Energy; and public witnesses.
ROLE OF SECONDARY MARKET IN SUBPRIME MORTGAGE LENDING
Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and
Consumer Credit held a hearing on the Role of the Secondary Market in Subprime
Mortgage Lending. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
RURAL HOUSING PROGRAMS
Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Housing and Community
Opportunity held a hearing entitled "Rural Housing Programs: Review Fiscal
Year 2008 Budget and Pending Rural Housing Legislation," including the
following bills: H.R. 1980, Housing Assistance Council Authorization Act of
2007; and H.R. 1982, Rural Housing and Economic Development Improvement Act of
2007. Testimony was heard from Pamela Patenaude, Assistant Secretary,
Community Planning and Development, Department of Housing and Urban
Development; Russell T. Davis, Administrator, Rural Development Housing and
Community Facilities Programs, USDA; and public witnesses.
JEWISH AND PALESTINIAN REFUGEES
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on the Middle East and South Asia
held a hearing on Two Sides of the Same Coin: Jewish and Palestinian Refugees.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
VOTER CONFIDENCE AND INCREASED ACCESSIBILITY ACT OF 2007; ELECTION CONTESTS
DISMISSED; COMMITTEE FRANKING ALLOCATION RESOLUTION
Committee on House Administration: Ordered reported the following: H.R. 811,
amended, Voter Confidence and Increased Accessibility Act of 2007; and four
resolutions dismissing Election contests in the following cases: Russell v.
Brown-Waite (FL-5); Gonzalez v. Diaz-Balart (FL-21); Curtis v. Feeney (FL-24);
and Cox v. McCrery (LA-4).
The Committee also approved a Committee Franking Allocation Resolution.
ANTITRUST MODERNIZATION COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS
Committee on the Judiciary: Antitrust Task Force held a hearing on the
findings and recommendations of the Antitrust Modernization Commission, as
established by the Antitrust Modernization Commission Act of 2002. Testimony
was heard from the following officials of the Antitrust Modernization
Commission: Deborah A. Garza, Chair; and Jon Yarowsky, Vice Chair.
[Page: D639]
U.S. IMMIGRATION SYSTEM--ROLE OF FAMILY-BASED IMMIGRATION
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship,
Refugees, Border Security, and International Law held a hearing on the Role of
Family-Based Immigration in the U.S. Immigration System. Testimony was heard
from Representative Gingrey; and public witnesses.
SMALL BUSINESS FAIRNESS IN CONTRACTING ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 8 to 3, a structured rule. The rule
provides 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 1873, to reauthorize the programs
and activities of the Small Business Administration relating to procurement,
and for other purposes, equally divided and controlled by the Chairman and
Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Small Business. The rule waives
all points of order against consideration of the bill except for clauses 9 and
10 of rule XXI. The rule provides that the amendment in the nature of a
substitute recommended by the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform now
printed in the bill shall be considered as an original bill for the purpose of
amendment and shall be considered as read. The rule waives all points of order
against the committee amendment except for those arising under clauses 9 or 10
of rule XXI.
The rule makes in order only those amendments printed in the report. The
amendments made in order may be offered only in the order printed in the
report, may be offered only by the 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. All points of
order against the amendments except for clauses 9 and 10 of rule XXI are
waived. The rule provides one motion to recommit with or without instructions.
Finally, the rule provides that the Chair may postpone further consideration
of the bill to a time designated by the Speaker. Testimony was heard from
Chairwoman Velazquez, Representative Sestak, Chairman Waxman, Representatives
Braley, Welch of Vermont, Wynn, Jackson-Lee of Texas, Chabot, and Sessions.
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 8 to 3, a structured rule. The rule
provides 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 1684, to authorize appropriations
for the Department of Homeland Security for fiscal year 2008, and for other
purposes, equally divided and controlled by the Chairman and Ranking Minority
Member of the Committee on Homeland Security. The rule waives all points of
order against consideration of the bill except for clauses 9 or 10 of rule
XXI. The rule considers as an original bill for the purpose of further
amendment the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the
Committee on Homeland Security. The committee amendment shall be considered as
read. The rule waives all points of order against the committee amendment
except for those arising under clauses 9 or 10 of rule XXI.
The rule makes in order those amendments printed in the report and waives all
points of order against such amendments except for those arising under clauses
9 or 10 of rule XXI. The rule provides one motion to recommit with or without
instructions. Finally, the rule permits the Chair, during consideration of the
bill in the House, to postpone further consideration until a time designated
by the Speaker. Testimony was heard from Chairman Thompson of Mississippi,
Representatives Hastings of Florida, Cardoza, Castor, Sherman, Lipinski, King
of New York, Shays, Tom Davis of Virginia, Davis of Tennessee, Hastings of
Washington, Royce, Mica, Hayes, Terry, Bilbray, Blackburn, Garrett of New
Jersey, and Poe.
LEVEE/DAM SAFETY PROGRAMS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Economic
Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management and the Subcommittee on
Water Resources and Environment held a joint hearing on National Levee Safety
and Dam Safety Programs. Testimony was heard from David I. Maurstad, Assistant
Administrator, Mitigation Directorate, FEMA, Department of Homeland Security;
Steven L. Stockton, Deputy Director, Civil Works, U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers, Department of Defense; and public witnesses.
RAIL SAFETY LEGISLATION
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Railroads,
Pipelines and Hazardous Materials held a hearing on Rail Safety Legislation.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
Transportation: Joseph Boardman, Administrator, Federal Railroad
Administration; and Kurt W. Hyde, Assistant Inspector General, Surface and
Maritime Programs, Office of Inspector General; Mark Rosenker, Chairman,
National Transportation Safety Board; and public witnesses.
[Page: D640]
VETERANS CEMETERIES
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and
Memorial Affairs held a hearing on Veterans Cemeteries: Honoring Those Who
Served. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of
Veterans Affairs: John Metzler, Superintendent, Arlington National Cemetery;
and William F. Tuerk, Under Secretary, Memorial Affairs; BG John W. Nicholson,
USA (ret.), Secretary, American Battle Monuments Commission; and
representatives of veterans organizations.
DOD/VA MEDICAL RECORDS SHARING
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
held a hearing on Sharing of Electronic Medical Records between Department of
Defense and Department of Veterans' Affairs. Testimony was heard from Valerie
Melvin, Director, Human Capital and Management Information Systems Issues,
GAO; Gerald M. Cross, M.D., Acting Principal Deputy Under Secretary, Health,
Department of Veterans Affairs; and Stephen Jones, M.D., Assistant Secretary,
Health Affairs, Department of Defense.
INDEPENDENT WORKER MISCLASSIFICATION
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Income Security and Family
Support and the Subcommittee on Select Revenue Measures held a joint hearing
on Independent Workers. Testimony was heard from Sigurd Nilsen, Education,
Workforce and Income Security Issues, GAO; and public witnesses.
2007/05/09
Daily Digest - Wednesday, May 9, 2007; pages D644 - D654
Committee Meetings
IMPORTED FOOD/FEED INGREDIENTS SAFETY
Committee on Agriculture: Held a hearing to review the impact of imported
contaminated food and feed ingredients and of recent food safety emergencies
on food safety and animal health systems. Testimony was heard from Kenneth E.
Petersen, Food Safety Inspection Service, USDA; and David Acheson, M.D.,
Assistant Commissioner, Food Protection, FDA, Department of Health and Human
Services.
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense met in executive session
to hold a hearing on Guantanamo, Panel I. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of Defense: RADM Harry B. Harris, Jr.,
USN, Commander, Joint Task Force-Guantanamo; Daniel J. Dell'Orto, Principal
Deputy General Counsel; and Joseph A. Benkert, Principal Deputy Assistant
Secretary, Global Security Affairs.
The Subcommittee continued hearings on this subject, Panel II. Testimony was
heard from COL Dwight Sullivan, USMCR, Chief Defense Counsel, Office of
Military Commissions, Department of Defense; and public witnesses.
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Armed Services: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 1585, National
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008.
U.S. MEDICINE SUPPLY SAFETY
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled "Assessing the Safety of Our Nation's Drug Supply." Testimony was
heard from Steven K. Galson, M.D., Director, Center for Drug Evaluation and
Research, FDA, Department of Health and Human Services; Marcia Crosse,
Director, Health Care Issues, GAO; and public witnesses.
INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC-MILITARY SUPPORT FOR IRAQ
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on International Organizations,
Human Rights and Oversight held a hearing on the Economic and Military Support
for the U.S. Efforts in Iraq: The Coalition of the Willing, Then and Now.
Testimony was heard from Joseph A. Christoff, Director, International Affairs
and Trade Team, GAO; Kenneth Katzman, Specialist in Middle East Affairs,
Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division, CRS, Library of Congress; and a
public witness.
[Page: D650]
FEDERAL EMERGENCY RESPONSE COORDINATION
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Emergency Communications,
Preparedness and Response held a hearing entitled "Assessing the Capabilities
and Coordination of Federal Emergency Response Teams." Testimony was heard
from Bob Powers, Acting Deputy Assistant Administrator, Disaster Operations
Directorate, FEMA, Department of Homeland Security; and public witnesses.
IMMIGRATION REFORM
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship,
Refugees, Border Security, and International Law continued hearings on the
U.S. Economy, U.S. Workers, and Immigration Reform. Testimony was heard from
public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT IMPLEMENTATION
Committee on Natural Resources: Held an oversight hearing on Endangered
Species Act Implementation: Science or Politics? Testimony was heard from P.
Lynn Scarlett, Deputy Secretary, Department of the Interior; John Young,
former Biologist, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior;
and public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Organization, and Procurement approved for full Committee action
the following bills: H.R. 1870, amended, Contractor Tax Enforcement Act; H.R.
1865, To amend title 31, United States Code, to allow certain local tax debt
to be collected through the reduction of Federal tax refunds; and H.R. 404,
amended, Federal Customer Service Enhancement Act.
U.S. AID TO PAKISTAN
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on National
Security and Foreign Affairs held a hearing entitled "Making the Grade on the
9/11 Commission Report Card: American Support of Pakistani Education Reform."
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
INTELLIGENCE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Rules: Granted, by vote of 8 to 3, a structured rule. The rule
provides for 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 2081, to authorize
appropriations for fiscal year 2008 for intelligence and intelligence-related
activities of the United States Government, the Community Management Account,
and the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, and for
other purposes, equally divided and controlled by the Chairman and Ranking
Minority Member of the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. The rule
waives all points of order against consideration of the bill except those
arising under clause 9 of rule XXI. The rule XXI. The rule considers as an
original bill for the purpose of further amendment the amendment in the nature
of a substitute recommended by the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.
The committee amendment shall be considered as read. The rule waives all
points of order against the committee amendment except those arising under
clause 8 of rule XXI. The rule makes in order those amendments printed in the
report and waives all points of order against such amendments except those
arising under clause 9 or 10 or rule XXI. The rule provides one motion to
recommit with or without instructions. Finally, the rule permits the Chair,
during consideration of the bill in the House, to postpone further
consideration until a time designated by the Speaker. Testimony was heard from
Chairman Reyes, Representatives Hastings of Florida, Holt, Thompson of
California, Hoekstra, Wilson of New Mexico, and Rogers of Michigan.
TO PROVIDE FOR THE REDEPLOYMENT OF UNITED STATES ARMED FORCES AND DEFENSE
CONTRACTORS FROM IRAQ--H.R. 2237; U.S. TROOP READINESS, VETERANS' CARE,
KATRINA RECOVERY, AND IRAQ ACCOUNTABILITY APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2007--H.R. 2206;
AGRICULTURAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE AND WESTERN STATES EMERGENCY UNFINISHED
BUSINESS APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2007--H.R. 2207
Committee on Rules: Granted by a vote of 8 to 3, a closed rule. The resolution
provides for consideration of H.R. 2237, to provide for the Redeployment of
United States Armed Forces and Defense Contractors from Iraq. The rule
provides 1 hour of general debate in the House equally divided and controlled
by the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on
Appropriations. The rule waives all points of order against the bill and
against its consideration and provides that the bill shall be considered as
read. The rule contains one motion to recommit with or without instructions.
The rule also provides for consideration of the bill (H.R. 2206), the U.S.
Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability
Appropriations Act, 2007. The rule provides one hour of general debate in the
House equally divided and controlled by the chairman and ranking minority
member of the Committee on Appropriations. The rule waives all points of order
against consideration of the bill except for clauses 9 and 10 of rule XXI. It
provides that the amendment printed in Part A of this report shall be
considered as adopted and that the bill, as amended, shall be considered as
read. The Rule waives all points of order against the bill, as amended, and
contains one motion to recommit on H.R. 2206 with or without instructions.
[Page: D651]
The rule further provides for consideration of the bill (H.R. 2207), the
Agricultural Disaster Assistance and Western States Emergency Unfinished
Business Appropriations Act, 2007. The rule provides one hour of general
debate in the House equally divided and controlled by the chairman and ranking
minority member of the Committee on Appropriations. The rule waives all points
of order against consideration of the bill except for clauses 9 and 10 of rule
XXI. It provides that the amendment printed in Part B of this report shall be
considered as adopted and that the bill, as amended, shall be considered as
read. The Rule waives all points of order against the bill, as amended, and
contains one motion to recommit on H.R. 2207 with or without instructions.
The rule also provides that in the engrossment of H.R. 2206, the Clerk shall
await the disposition of H.R. 2237 and H.R. 2207 and shall add the respective
texts of H.R. 2237 and H.R. 2207, as passed by the House, as new matter at the
end of H.R. 2206 and shall make appropriate conforming changes. Finally the
rule provides that during consideration of H.R. 2237, H.R. 2206 and H.R. 2207,
notwithstanding the operation of the previous question, the Chair may postpone
further consideration of any such bill to a time designated by the Speaker.
Testimony was heard from Chairman Obey and Representative Kucinich.
RURAL BROADBAND SERVICES
Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Rural and Urban Entrepreneurship
held a hearing entitled "Maximizing the Value of Broadband Services to Rural
Communities." Testimony was heard from Jonathan Adelstein, Commissioner, FCC;
and public witnesses.
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL MODERNIZATION
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing on the Future of Air Traffic Control Modernization. Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of Transportation: Robert
Sturgell, Deputy Administrator and Interim Chief Operating Officer, Air
Traffic Organization, FAA; and Calvin L. Scovel III, Inspector General; Gerald
Dillingham, Director, Physical Infrastructure Issues, GAO; and public
witnesses.
GLOBAL WAR ON TERROR VETERANS
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Held a hearing on the Results of the
Administration's Task Force on Returning Global War on Terror Heroes.
Testimony was heard from R. James Nicholson, Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
VA'S LONG-TERM CARE PROGRAMS
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing to
examine VA's Long-Term Care Programs. Testimony was heard from Patricia
Vandenberg, Assistant Deputy Under Secretary, Health Policy and Planning,
Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs; and
representatives of veterans organizations.
CURRENCY MANIPULATION IMPACTS
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Trade and the Subcommittee on
Commerce, Trade and Consumer Protection of the Committee on Energy and
Commerce, and the Subcommittee on Domestic and International Monetary Policy,
Trade and Technology of the Committee on Financial Services held a joint
hearing on Currency Manipulation and Its Effect on U.S. Businesses and
Workers. Testimony was heard from Mark Sobel, Deputy Assistant Secretary,
International Monetary and Financial Policy, Department of the Treasury;
Stephen Claeys, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Antidumping and Countervailing
Duty Operations, Department of Commerce; Daniel Brinza, Assistant U.S. Trade
Representative, Monitoring and Enforcement; Donald L. Evans, former Secretary
of Commerce; and public witnesses.
BRIEFING--HOT SPOTS
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to
receive a briefing on Hot Spots. The Committee was briefed by departmental
witnesses.
FOREIGN OIL--ECONOMICS OF DEPENDENCE
Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming: Held a hearing
entitled "Economics of Dependence on Foreign Oil--Rising Gasoline Prices."
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
2007/05/10
Daily Digest - Thursday, May 10, 2007; pages D656 - D664
Committee Meetings
AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH PROGRAMS
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Conservation, Credit, Energy, and
Research held a hearing to review agricultural research programs. Testimony
was heard from Gale Buchanan, Under Secretary, Research, Education and
Economics, USDA; and public witnesses.
FOOD AID/AGRICULTURE TRADE PROGRAMS
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Specialty Crops, Rural Development,
and Foreign Agriculture held a hearing to review food aid and agriculture
trade programs operated by the USDA and the U.S. Agency for International
Development. Testimony was heard from Representatives McGovern and Emerson;
Michael Yost, Administrator, Foreign Agriculture Service, USDA; William
Hammink, Director, Office of Food for Peace, U.S. Agency for International
Development, Department of State; 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 Marketing
and Regulatory Programs. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the USDA: Bruce Knight, Under Secretary, Marketing and Regulatory Programs;
Kenneth C. Clayton, Associate Administrator, Agricultural Marketing Service;
W. Ron DeHaven, Administrator, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service;
James E. Link, Administrator, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards
Administration; and W. Scott Steele, Budget Officer.
DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing on
Contracting Out. Testimony was heard from John P. Hutton, Director,
Acquisition and Sourcing Management, GAO; Joseph T. McDermott, Assistant
Inspector General, Audits, and Special Inspector General, Iraq Reconstruction,
and public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--EDUCATION DEPARTMENT STUDENT LOAN AND THE READING FIRST PROGRAM
Committee on Education and Labor: Held a hearing on Accountability for the
Department of Education's Oversight of Student Loans and the Reading First
Program. Testimony was heard from Margaret Spellings, Secretary of Education.
FIGHT CHILDHOOD OBESITY SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Healthy Families and
Communities held a hearing on Using School Wellness Plans To Help Fight
Childhood Obesity. Testimony was heard from Representative Woolsey; and public
witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Ordered reported, as amended, the following
bills: H.R. 964, Securely Protect Yourself Against Cyber Trespass Act; and
H.R. 948, Social Security Number Protection Act of 2007.
[Page: D662]
FUTURE OF VIDEO
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the
Internet continued hearings entitled "Digital Future of the United States:
Part V: The Future of Video." Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
FINANCIAL CRIMES LAW ENFORCEMENT
Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
held a hearing entitled "Suspicious Activity and Currency Transaction Reports:
Balancing Law Enforcement Utility and Regulatory Requirements." Testimony was
heard from William F. Baity, Deputy Director, Financial Crimes Enforcement
Network (FinCEN, Department of the Treasury; Salvador Hernandez, Deputy
Assistant Director, Criminal Investigative Division, FBI, Department of
Justice; and public witnesses.
NUCLEAR WEAPONS NONPROLIFERATION
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on Every State a Superpower?
Stopping the Spread of Nuclear Weapons in the 21st Century. Testimony was
heard from former Senator Sam Nunn of Georgia; and public witnesses.
GUINEA AND ETHIOPIA HUMAN RIGHTS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on International Organizations,
Human Rights, and Oversight, and the Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health
held a joint hearing on Is There a Human Rights Double Standard? U.S. Policy
Toward Equatorial Guinea and Ethiopia Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
HOMELAND SECURITY INFORMATION SHARING
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Intelligence, Information
Sharing and Terrorism Risk Assessment held a hearing entitled "Fixing the
Homeland Security Information Network: Finding the Way Forward for Better
Information Sharing." Testimony was heard from Wayne Parent, Deputy Director,
Office of Operations Coordination, Department of Homeland Security; David
Powner, Director, Information Technology Management Issues, GAO; Barry S.
Lindquist, Inspector, Office of Statewide Intelligence, Department of Law
Enforcement, State of Florida; and public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--JUSTICE DEPARTMENT
Committee on the Judiciary: Held an oversight hearing on the U.S. Department
of Justice. Testimony was heard from Alberto Gonzales, The Attorney General,
Department of Justice.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and
Public Lands held a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 523, Douglas County,
Washington PUD Conveyance Act; and H.R. 1011, Virginia Ridge and Valley Act of
2007. Testimony was heard from Representatives Boucher and Hastings of
Washington; Mike Ferguson, Assistant Director, Business and Fiscal Resources,
Bureau of Land Management, Department of the Interior; Joel Holtrop, Deputy
Chief, National Forest System, Forest Service, USDA; and public witnesses.
GUN PURCHASE LAWS LOOPHOLES
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Domestic Policy
held a hearing entitled "Lethal Loopholes: Deficiencies in State and Federal
Gun Purchase Laws." Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Justice: Rachel L. Brand, Assistant Attorney General, Office of
Legal Policy; and Stephen R. Rubenstein, Chief Counsel, Bureau of Alcohol,
Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; John Feinblatt, Criminal Justice
Coordinator, City of New York; and public witnesses.
DIVERSITY IN GOVERNMENT MANAGEMENT
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Federal
Workforce, Postal Service, and the District of Columbia held a hearing
entitled "The Lack of Diversity in the Top Levels of the Federal Government."
Testimony was heard from George H. Stalcup, Director, Strategic Issues, GAO;
Nancy Kichak, Associate Director, Strategic Human Resources Policy Division,
OPM; Carlton Hadden, Director, Office of Federal Operations, EEOC; Gail
Lovelace, Chief Human Capital Officer, GSA; Vickers Meadows, Chief
Administrative Officer, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Department of
Commerce; Reginald Wells, Deputy Commissioner, SSA; Susan LaChance, Vice
President, Employee Development and Diversity, U.S. Postal Service; and public
witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment
approved for full Committee action the following bills: H.R. 364, amended, To
provide for the establishment of the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy;
and H.R. 632, H-Prize Act of 2007.
GREEN TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Technology and Innovation
held a hearing on Green Transportation Infrastructure: Challenges to Access
and Implementation. Testimony was heard from Gloria Shepherd, Associate
Administrator, Planning, Environment, and Realty, Federal Highway
Administration, Department of Transportation; Benjamin Grumbles, Assistant
Administrator, Office of Water, EPA; and public witnesses.
[Page: D663]
IMMIGRATION POLICIES SMALL BUSINESS IMPACTS
Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing on Immigration Policies and their
Impact on Small Businesses. Testimony was heard from Representative Gutierrez;
and public witnesses.
GSA CAPITAL INVESTMENT AND LEASING PROGRAM
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Economic
Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management held a hearing on
General Services Administration's Fiscal Year 2008 Capital Investment and
Leasing Program. Testimony was heard from David L. Winstead, Commissioner,
Public Building Service, GSA.
KATRINA RECOVERY PROBLEMS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Economic
Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management held a hearing on
"Legislative Fixes for Lingering Problems that Hinder Katrina Recovery."
Testimony was heard from Representatives Taylor, Pickering, Baker, Boustany,
Jefferson, Melancon and Jindal.
FEDERAL TRANSIT PROJECTS PROGRAMS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Highways and
Transit held a hearing on FTA Implementation of the New Starts and Small
Starts Programs. Testimony was heard from James S. Simpson, Administrator,
Federal Transit Administration, Department of Transportation; Katherine A.
Siggerud, Director, Physical Infrastructure, GAO; and public witnesses.
VETERANS MEASURES
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Health approved for full
Committee action the following bills: H.R. 2199, To amend title 38, United
States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide certain
improvements in the treatment of individuals with traumatic brain injuries;
and H.R. 1470, Chiropractic Care Available to All Veterans Act.
MEDICARE PHYSICIAN QUALITY
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on Options
To Improve Quality and Efficiency Among Medicare physicians. Testimony was
heard from A. Bruce Steinwald, Director, Health Care, GAO; Herb Kuhn, Acting
Deputy Administrator, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Department
of Health and Human Services; Glen M. Hackbarth, Chairman, Medicare Payment
Advisory Commission; and public witnesses.
2007/05/11
Daily Digest - Friday, May 11, 2007; pages D665 - D670
Committee Meetings
ESEA REAUTHORIZATION
Committee on Education and Labor: Held a hearing on ESEA Reauthorization:
Boosting Quality in the Teaching Profession. Testimony was heard from Joel I.
Klein, Chancellor, Department of Education, New York City; Jack D. Dale,
Superintendent, Fairfax County Public Schools, Virginia; Joseph P. Burke,
Superintendent of Schools, Springfield, Massachusetts; and public witnesses.
CLIMATE CHANGE AND ENERGY INDEPENDENCE--ADMINISTRATION PROPOSALS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Held a hearing on
Administration Proposals on Climate Change and Energy Independence. Testimony
was heard from Mary E. Peters, Secretary of Transportation; Stephen Johnson,
Administrator, EPA; John Paul Woodley, Jr., Assistant Secretary, Civil Works,
Department of the Army; and Lurita Alexis Doan, Administrator, GSA; Stephen T.
Ayers, Acting Architect of the Capitol and Deputy Architect/Chief Operating
Officer, U.S. Congress; and Daniel P. Beard, Chief Administrative Officer,
House of Representatives.
2007/15/14
Daily Digest - Monday, May 14, 2007; pages D672 - D676
Committee Meetings
FEDERAL CROP INSURANCE PROGRAM
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk
Management held a hearing to review the Federal Crop Insurance Program.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
SELECT INTELLIGENCE OVERSIGHT PANEL
Committee on Appropriations: Select Intelligence Oversight Panel met in
executive session on Domestic Agencies Intelligence Programs. Testimony was
heard from Charles Allen, Assistant Secretary, Intelligence and Analysis,
Department of Homeland Security; Rolf Mowatt-Larssen, Director, Intelligence
and Counterintelligence, Department of Energy; and Willie T. Hulon, Executive
Assistant Director, National Security Branch, FBI, Department of Justice.
2007/05/15
Daily Digest - Tuesday, May 15, 2007; pages D677 - D686
Committee Meetings
FRESH PRODUCE SAFETY
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Horticulture and Organic Agriculture
held a hearing to review industry response to the safety of fresh and
fresh-cut produce. Testimony was heard from Lloyd Day, Administrator,
Agricultural Marketing Service, USDA; David Acheson, M.D., Assistant
Commissioner, Food Protection, FDA, Department of Health and Human Services;
and public witnesses.
COLLEGE CAMPUS SAFETY
Committee on Education and Labor: Held a hearing on Best Practices for Making
College Campuses Safe. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
PRIVATE SECTOR WHISTLEBLOWERS PROTECTIONS
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Workforce Protections held a
hearing on Private Sector Whistleblowers: Are There Sufficient Legal
Protections? Testimony was heard from Richard Fairfax, Director of
Enforcement, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Department of
Labor; Tom Devine, Legal Director, GAO; and public witnesses.
CHILDREN'S PRODUCT SAFETY
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade and Consumer
Protection held a hearing entitled "Protecting Our Children: Current Issues in
Children's Product Safety." Testimony was head from Nancy A. Nord, Acting
Chairman, Consumer Product Safety Commission; and public witnesses.
MEDICARE SAVINGS PLAN AND LOW INCOME SUBSIDY
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled "Medicare Savings Plan and Low Income Subsidy: Keeping Medicare's
Promise for Seniors and People with Disabilities." Testimony was heard from
public witnesses.
U.S. GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE ENGAGEMENT
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on U.S. Re-Engagement in the
Global Effort to Fight Climate Change. Testimony was heard from Eileen
Claussen, former Assistant Secretary, Oceans and International Environmental
and Scientific Affairs, Department of State; and public witnesses.
HURRICANE SEASON PREPAREDNESS
Committee on Homeland Security: Held a hearing entitled "The 2007 Hurricane
Season: Are We Prepared?" Testimony was heard from R. David Pulison, Director,
FEMA, Department of Homeland Security; William Jenkins, Director, Homeland
Security and Justice Issues Division, GAO; Craig Fugate, Director, Division of
Emergency Management, State of Florida; and Joe Becker, Senior Vice President,
Preparedness and Response, National Headquarters, American Red Cross.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and
Public Lands held a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 1239, National
Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Reauthorization Act of 2007; H.R.
1388, Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail Act; H.R. 1483, To amend
the Omnibus Parks and Public Lands Management Act of 1996 to extend the
authorization for certain national heritage areas; and H.R. 1528, New England
National Scenic Trail Designation Act. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Regula, Olver, Hastings of Florida; Castle and Murphy of
Connecticut; Chris Jarvi, Associate Director, Partnerships and Visitor
Experience, National Park Service, Department of the Interior; Robert Stanton,
former Director, National Park Service, Department of the Interior; and public
witnesses.
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Rules: Granted, by vote of 9 to 4, a structured rule. The rule
provides for ninety minutes of general debate on H.R. 1585, National Defense
Authorization Act for fiscal year 2008, equally divided and controlled by the
Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Armed Services. The
rule waives all points of order against consideration of the bill except those
arising under clause 9 or 10 of rule XXI. The rule provides that the amendment
in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Armed Services
shall be considered as an original bill for the purpose of further amendment
and shall be considered as read. The rule waives all points of order against
the committee amendment except those arising under clause 9 or 10 of rule XXI.
[Page: D683]
The rule makes in order only those amendments printed in the report and waives
all points of order against such amendments except those arising under clause
9 or 10 of rule XXI. The rule provides one motion to recommit with or without
instructions. The rule also permits the Chairman of the Committee on Armed
Services or his designee to offer amendments en bloc if those amendments have
been printed in the report and not earlier disposed of. The Chairman of the
Committee of the Whole may recognize for consideration any amendment printed
in this report out of the order printed but not sooner than 30 minutes after
the Chairman of the Committee on Armed Services announces from the floor a
request to that effect. Finally, the resolution permits the Chair, during
consideration of the bill in the House, to postpone further consideration
until a time designated by the Speaker. Testimony was heard from Chairman
Skelton, Representatives, Boren, Ellsworth, McGovern, Moran of Virginia, Scott
of Virginia, Holden, Blumenauer, Jackson-Lee of Texas, Tierney, Schakowsky,
Thompson of California, Israel, Michaud, Lipinski, Braley, Carney, Walz,
Saxton, Akin, Miller of Michigan, Franks of Arizona, Drake, Davis of Kentucky,
Lincoln Diaz-Balart of Florida, Sessions, Tom Davis of Virginia, LaHood,
Latham, Weller, Goode, Terry, Capito, King of Iowa, Musgrave and McCotter.
FEDERAL HOUSING FINANCE REFORM ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open rule with a preprinting
requirement. The rule provides one hour of general debate on H.R. 1427,
Federal Housing Finance Reform Act of 2007, equally divided and controlled by
the Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the Committee on Financial
Services. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the
bill except for clauses 9 and 10 of rule XXI. The rule provides that the
amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on
Financial Services now printed in the bill, modified by the amendment printed
in the report of the Committee on Rules, shall be considered as an original
bill for the purpose of amendment under the five-minute rule. The amendment in
the nature of a substitute shall be read by title rather than by section and
each title shall be considered as read. The rule waives all points of order
against the amendment in the nature of a substitute, as amended, except for
clauses 9 and 10 of rule XXI.
The rule makes in order only those amendments to the amendment in the nature
of a substitute that have been pre-printed in the Congressional Record before
the beginning of consideration of the bill or are pro forma amendments for the
purpose of debate. The rule provides that each amendment so printed may be
offered only by the Member who caused it to be printed or a designee, and that
each amendment shall be considered as read. The rule provides one motion to
recommit with or without instructions. Finally, the rule provides that the
Chair may postpone consideration of the bill to a time designated by the
Speaker. Testimony was heard from Chairman Frank, Representatives Bachus.
ADVANCED COAL TECHNOLOGIES
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment
held a hearing on Prospects for Advanced Coal Technologies: Efficient Energy
Production, Carbon Capture and Sequestration. Testimony was heard from Carl O.
Bauer, Director, National Energy Technology Laboratory, Department of Energy;
Robert J. Finley, Director, Energy and Earth Resources Center, Geological
Survey, State of Illinois; and public witnesses.
MATH EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Research and Science
Education held a hearing on Federal STEM Education Programs: Educators'
Perspectives. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
VETERANS MEASURES
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R.
612, amended, Returning Servicemember VA Health Insurance Act of 2007; H.R.
67, amended, Veterans Outreach Improvement Act of 2007; H.R. 1660, amended, To
direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a national cemetery for
veterans in the southern Colorado region; H.R. 1470, Chiropractic Care
Available to All Veterans Act; and H.R. 2199, amended, to amend title 38,
United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide
certain improvements in treatment of Individuals with traumatic brain
injuries; and H.R. 2239, amended, Early Access to Vocational Rehabilitation
and Employment Benefits Act.
MEDICARE PROVIDER PAYMENTS
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on Payments
to Certain Medicare Fee-for-Service Providers, Testimony was heard from Herb
Kuhn, Acting Deputy Administrator, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services,
Department of Health and Human Services; Mark Miller, Executive Director,
Medicare Payment Advisory Commission; and public witnesses.
[Page: D684]
STATE CHILD WELFARE AGENCIES
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Income Security held a hearing on
challenges Facing the Child Welfare System. Testimony was heard from Cornelia
M. Ashby, Director of Education, Workforce and Income Security, GAO; Mary
Nelson, Administrator, Division of Child and Family Services, Department of
Human Services, State of Iowa; Anne Holton, First Lady of Virginia; and public
witnesses.
2007/05/16
Daily Digest - Wednesday, May 16, 2007; pages D688 - D698
Committee Meetings
MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH PROGRAMS
Committee on Education and Labor: Held a hearing on Evaluating the
Effectiveness of MSHA's Mine Safety and Health Programs. Testimony was heard
from Representatives Rahall and Capito; Dan Bertoni, Director, Education,
Workforce, and Income Security Team, GAO; the following officials of the
Department of Labor: Richard Stickler, Assistant Secretary, Mine Safety and
Health; and Jonathan Snare, Acting Solicitor of Labor; and a public witness.
MEDICAL DEVICE USER FEE AND MODERNIZATION REAUTHORIZATION
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled "Reauthorization of the Medical Device User Fee and Modernization
Act." Testimony was heard from Jeffrey Shuren, M.D., Assistant Commissioner,
Policy, FDA, Department of Health and Human Services; and public witnesses.
BP PRUDHOE BAY SHUTDOWN
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
held a hearing entitled "2006 Prudhoe Bay Shutdown: Will Recent Regulatory
Changes and BP Management Reforms Prevent Future Failures." Testimony was
heard from Stacy Gerard, Acting Assistant Administrator Chief Safety Officer,
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, Department of
Transportation; Carolyn Merritt, Chair and CEO, U.S. Chemical Safety and
Hazard Investigation Board; Richard Fairfax, Director, Directorate of
Enforcement Programs, Occupational Safety and Health Administration,
Department of Labor; Jonne Slemons, Coordinator, Petroleum Systems Integrity
Office, Division of Oil and Gas, Department of Natural Resources, State of
Alaska; and a public witness.
PRIVATE EQUITY'S EFFECTS FROM MARKET IMPACTS
Committee on Financial Services: Held a hearing entitled "Private Equity's
Effects on Workers and Firms." Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
[Page: D695]
AFRICA'S WATER CRISIS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health held a
briefing on Africa's Water Crisis and the 2006 UNDP Human Development Report.
The Subcommittee was briefed by Cecilia Ugaz, Deputy Director, Human
Development Report Office, Development Program, United Nations; and Amina
Salum Ali, Permanent Representative to the United States, The African Union.
AFRICA'S WATER CRISIS--U.S. RESPONSE
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health held a
hearing on Africa's Water Crisis and the U.S. Response. Testimony was heard
from Representative Blumenauer; the following officials of the Department of
State: Claudia McMurray, Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Oceans and
International Environmental and Scientific Affairs; and Walter North, Senior
Deputy Assistant Administrator, Bureau for Africa, U.S. Agency for
International Development; and a public witness.
MIDDLE EAST AND SOUTH ASIA DIPLOMACY
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Middle East and South Asia held
a hearing on Public Diplomacy in the Middle East and South Asia: Is the
Message Getting Through? Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the Department of State: Jeremy Curtin, Coordinator, Bureau of International
Information Programs; Gretchen Welch, Director, Office of Policy, Planning,
and Resources; Thomas A. Farrell, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Academic
Programs, and Alina L. Romanowski, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Professional
and Cultural Exchanges, both with the Bureau of Educational and Cultural
Affairs; and the following members of the Board of the Broadcasting Board of
Governors: Joaquin F. Blaya and D. Jeffrey Hirschberg.
U.S. INFRASTRUCTURE--FOREIGN INVESTMENT IN U.S.
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Transportation Security and
Infrastructure Protection held a hearing entitled "The Impact of Foreign
Ownership and Foreign Investment on the Security of Our Nation's Critical
Infrastructure." Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
OIL INDUSTRY AND RISING GAS PRICES
Committee on the Judiciary: Antitrust Task Force held a hearing on Prices at
the Pump: Market Failure and the Oil Industry. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Stupak and Wilson of New Mexico; Richard Blumenthal, Attorney
General, State of Connecticut; and public witnesses.
PATENT REFORM ACT OF 2007
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Courts, The Internet, and
Intellectual Property approved for full Committee action H.R. 1908, Patent
Reform Act of 2007.
IMMIGRATION REFORM
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship,
Refugees, Border Security and International Law held a hearing on
Comprehensive Immigration Reform: Becoming Americans--U.S. Immigration
Integration. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
CONFERENCE REPORT--CONCURRENT BUDGET RESOLUTION FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Rules: Committee granted, by voice vote, a rule waiving all
points of order against the conference report to accompany the concurrent
resolution (S. Con. Res. 21) setting forth the congressional budget for the
United States Government for fiscal year 2008 and including the appropriate
budgetary levels for fiscal years 2007 and 2009 through 2012, and against its
consideration. The rule provides that the conference report shall be
considered as read. The rule also provides for 1 hour of debate equally
divided and controlled by the chairman and ranking minority member of the
Committee on the Budget. Testimony was heard from Chairman Spratt and
Representative Ryan of Wisconsin.
CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION
Committee on Science and Technology: Held a hearing on the State of Climate
Change Science 2007: The Findings of the Fourth Assessment Report by the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Working Group III:
Mitigation of Climate Change. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
SBA ENTREPRENEURIAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS
Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing on legislation affecting the SBA's
Entrepreneurial Development programs, including its Small Business Development
Center and Women's Business Center Programs. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the SBA: Wilma Goldstein, Acting Assistant
Administrator, Office of Entrepreneurial Development; and C.E. Rowe, Associate
Administrator, Congressional Legislative Affairs; and public witnesses.
CLIMATE CHANGE, ENERGY INDEPENDENCE AND TRANSPORTATION ISSUES
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Transportation
and Infrastructure held a hearing on Climate Change and Energy Independence:
Transportation and Infrastructure Issues. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
[Page: D696]
2007/05/17
Daily Digest - Thursday, May 17, 2007; pages D700 - D712
Committee Meetings
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Agriculture: Ordered reported the following measures: H. Con.
Res. 25, Expressing the sense of Congress that it is the goal of the United
States that, not later than January 2, 2025, the agricultural, forestry, and
working land of the United States should provide from renewable resources not
less than 25 percent of the total energy consumed in the United States and
continue to produce safe, abundant, and affordable food, feed, and fiber; H.R.
926, STOPP Act of 2007; and H. Res. 79, Recognizing the establishment of
Hunters for the Hungry programs across the United States and the contributions
of those programs to decrease hunger and help feed those in need.
AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FDA, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development,
and Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies held a hearing on
Marketing and Regulatory Programs. Testimony was heard from the following
officials of the USDA: Bruce Knight, Under Secretary, Marketing and Regulatory
Programs; Lloyd C. Day, Administrator, Agricultural Marketing Service; W. Ron
DeHaven, Administrator, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service; James E.
Link, Administrator, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration;
and Dennis Kaplan, Budget Office.
TEACHER PREPARATION
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Higher Education, Lifelong
Learning and Competitiveness held a hearing on Preparing Teachers for the
Classroom: The Role of the Higher Education Act and No Child Left Behind.
Testimony was heard from George Scott, Director, Education, Workforce and
Income Security Issues, GAO; and public witnesses.
BROADBAND AVAILABILITY AND QUALITY
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Telecommunication and the
Internet held a hearing on a proposed measure addressing Broadband Mapping and
Data Collection. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
REMITTANCES INDUSTRY
Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Domestic and International
Monetary Policy, Trade, and Technology held a hearing entitled "Remittances:
Access, Transparency, and Market Efficiency--A Progress Report." Testimony was
heard from public witnesses.
RUSSIAN INFLUENCE ON EASTERN EUROPE
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on Russia: Rebuilding the Iron
Curtain. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
AMERICAN FOREIGN POLICY MUSLIM COUNTRIES' VIEWS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on International Organizations,
Human Rights and Oversight held a hearing on Declining Approval for American
Foreign Policy in Muslim Countries: Does It Make It More Difficult To Fight al
Qaeda. Testimony was heard from a public witness.
SCHOOL SECURITY
Committee on Homeland Security: Held a hearing entitled "Protecting Our
Schools: Federal Efforts To Strengthen Community Preparedness and Response."
Testimony was heard from Holly Kuzmich, Deputy Chief of Staff, Policy and
Programs, Department of Education; Robert J. Sica, Special Agent in Charge,
U.S. Secret Service, National Threat Assessment Center, Department of Homeland
Security; Cornelia M. Ashby, Director, Education, Workforce, and Income
Security, GAO; and public witnesses.
[Page: D707]
COAST GUARD DEEPWATER PROGRAM
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Border, Maritime and Global
Counterterrorism and the Subcommittee on Management, Investigations and
Oversight held a joint hearing entitled "Deepwater: Charting a Course for
Safer Waters," Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Homeland Security: RADM Gary T. Blore, USCG, Program Executive
Officer, Integrated Deepwater System; Richard L. Skinner, Inspector General;
and CAPT Steven T. Baynes, USCG, Chief, Atlantic Area Response Enforcement
Branch, U.S. Coast Guard; and public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on the Judiciary: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 2317,
Lobbying Transparency Act of 2007; H.R. 2316, amended, Honest Leadership and
Open Government Act of 2007; H.R. 2264, No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels
Act of 2007; and S. 1104, amended, To increase the number of Iraqi and Afghani
translators and interpreters who may be admitted to the United States as
special immigrants.
IMMIGRATION REFORM
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship,
Refugees, Border Security, and International Law held a hearing on
Comprehensives Immigration Reform: Impact of Immigration on States and
Localities. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Water and Power held a hearing
on the following bills: H.R. 716, Santa Rosa Urban Water Reuse Plan Act; H.R.
236, North Bay Water Reuse Program Act of 2007; H.R. 1503, Avra/Black Wash
Reclamation and Riparian Restoration Project; and H.R. 1725, Rancho California
Water District Recycled Water Reclamation Facility Act of 2007. Testimony was
heard from Robert Quint, Acting Deputy Commissioner, Operations, Bureau of
Reclamation, Department of the Interior; and public witnesses.
CARBON-NEUTRAL GOVERNMENT
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Government
Management, Organization, and Procurement held a hearing on the Carbon-Neutral
Government Act of 2007. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
GEOTHERMAL/OCEAN POWER TECHNOLOGIES
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment
held a hearing on Developing Untapped Potential: Geothermal and Ocean Power
Technologies. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
NASA WORKFORCE
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics
held a hearing on Building and Maintaining a Healthy and Strong NASA
Workforce. Testimony was heard from the following officials of NASA: Toni
Dawsey, Assistant Administrator, Human Capital Management; and John Stewart,
Fellow, National Academy of Public Administration, member, Multisector
Workforce Panel; and public witnesses.
LIABILITY REFORM'S SMALL BUSINESS IMPACTS
Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing to review the impact of the
current legal system involving products liability on small businesses.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURE; GSA FY 2008 CAPITAL INVESTMENT PROGRAM RESOLUTIONS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Economic
Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management approved for full
Committee action the following: H.R. 2011, To designate the Federal building
and United States courthouse located at 100 East 8th Avenue in Pine Bluff,
Arkansas, as the "George Howard, Jr. Federal Building and United States
Courthouse;" and GSA's Fiscal Year 2008 Capital Investment Program
Resolutions.
VETERANS ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity held a
hearing on Veterans Entrepreneurship and Self Employment. Testimony was heard
from the following officials of the SBA: William Elmore, Associate
Administrator, Veterans Business Development; and Louis J. Celli, Jr.,
Chairman, Advisory Committee on Veterans Business Affairs; Scott F. Denniston,
Director, Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, Department of Veterans
Affairs; representatives of veterans organizations; and public witnesses.
2007/05/21
Daily Digest - Monday, May 21, 2007; pages D713 - D718
Committee Meetings
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: On May 18, the Subcommittee on Homeland Security
approved for full Committee action the Homeland Security appropriations for
fiscal year 2008.
IMMIGRATION REFORM
Committee on the Judiciary: On May 18, the Subcommittee on Immigration,
Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security, and International Law held a hearing
on Comprehensive Immigration Reform: The Future of Undocumented Immigrant
Students. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
NATIONAL GUARD DOMESTIC PREPAREDNESS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: On May 18, the Subcommittee on
Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management held a
hearing on Assuring the National Guard is as Ready at Home as It is Abroad.
Testimony was heard from David R. Paulison, Administrator, FEMA, Department of
Homeland Security; GEN King Sidwell, USA, Adjutant General, National Guard,
State of Missouri; and Doug Hoell, Director, Division of Emergency Management,
State of North Carolina.
2007/05/22
Daily Digest - Tuesday, May 22, 2007; pages D720 - D730
Committee Meetings
2007 FARM BILL
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Conservation, Credit, Energy, and
Research approved for full Committee action H.R. 2419, Farm Bill Extension Act
of 2007.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans
Affairs, and Related Agencies approved for full Committee action the Military
Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies appropriations for fiscal
year 2008.
IRAQI SECURITY FORCE TRAINING
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held
a hearing on training of Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) and employment of
transition teams. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Defense: Peter Velz, Office of the Secretary, Iraq Directorate;
and BG Michael D. Jones, USA, Deputy Director, Politico-Military Affairs
(Middle East), J5, The Joint Staff.
FEDERAL-STATE HEALTH CARE COORDINATION
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor
and Pensions held a hearing on Health Care Reform: Recommendations to Improve
Coordination of Federal and State Initiatives. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Tierney, Price of Georgia, and Baldwin; John Colmers,
Secretary, Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, State of Maryland; Steven
Goldman, Commissioner, Department of Banking and Insurance, State of New
Jersey; John Morrison, Auditor and Commissioner of Insurance and Securities,
State of Montana; and public witnesses.
PEDIATRIC THERAPIES SAFETY AND INNOVATION
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled "Programs Affecting Safety and Innovation in Pediatric Therapies."
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Health
and Human Services: RADM Sandra L. Kweder, USN, M.D., Deputy Director, Office
of New Drugs, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, FDA; and Donald
Mattison, M.D., Chief Obstetric and Pediatric Pharmacology Branch, National
Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of
Health; Marcia Crosse, Director, Health Care Issues, GAO; and public
witnesses.
GASOLINE PRICES
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
held a hearing entitled "Gasoline Prices, Oil Company Profits, and the
American Consumer." Testimony was heard from William E. Kovacic, Commissioner,
FTC; Guy F. Caruso, Administrator, Energy Information Administration,
Department of Energy; Thomas J. McCool, Director, Center for Economics,
Applied Research and Methods, GAO; Stanley F. Pruss, Deputy Director,
Department of Environmental Quality, State of Michigan; and public witnesses.
[Page: D726]
WORLD BANK COMBATING GLOBAL POVERTY
Committee on Financial Services: Held a hearing entitled "The Role and
Effectiveness of the World Bank in Combating Global Poverty." Testimony was
heard from public witnesses.
IRAQ: IS RECONSTRUCTION FAILING?
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on Iraq: Is Reconstruction
Failing? Testimony was heard from Stuart W. Bowen, Jr., Special Inspector
General for Iraq Reconstruction, Office of the Special Inspector General for
Iraq Reconstruction.
AFRICA DEBT RELIEF
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health held a
hearing on Vulture Funds and the Threat to Debt Relief in Africa: A Call to
Action at the G8 and Beyond. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
FEDERAL GULF COAST REBUILDING EFFORTS
Committee on Homeland Security: Held a hearing on The Role of the Department
of Homeland Security in Gulf Coast Rebuilding and Recovery Efforts. Testimony
was heard from Bryan McDonald, Director, Office of Recovery and Renewal, State
of Mississippi; and public witnesses.
OVERSIGHT--INTERNET TAX FREEDOM ACT
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Laws
held an oversight hearing on the Internet Tax Freedom Act: Internet Tax
Moratorium. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland
Security held a hearing on the following bills: H.R. 1943, Stop AIDS in Prison
Act of 2007; and H.R. 1199, Drug Endangered Children Act of 2007. Testimony
was heard from Representative Cardoza; RADM Newton E. Kendig, M.D., USN,
Assistant Director, Health Services Division, Federal Bureau of Prisons,
Department of Justice; Devon Brown, Director, Department of Corrections,
District of Columbia; and public witnesses.
IMMIGRATION REFORM
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship,
Refugees, Border Security and International Law held a hearing on
Comprehensive Immigration Reform: Perspectives from Faith-Based and
Immigration Communities. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
CARL SANDBURG HOME NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE BOUNDARY REVISION ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, a structured rule. The rule
provides 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 1100, Carl Sandburg Home National
Historic Site Boundary Revision Act of 2007, equally divided and controlled by
the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on Natural
Resources. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the
bill except clauses 9 and 10 of rule XXI. The rule provides that the amendment
in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Natural
Resources now printed in the bill shall be considered as an original bill for
the purpose of amendment and shall be considered as read. All points of order
against the committee amendment in the nature of a substitute are waived
except clauses 9 and 10 of rule XXI.
The rule makes in order only those amendments printed in the Rules Committee
report. The amendments made in order may be offered 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. All points of
order against the amendments except for clauses 9 and 10 of rule XXI are
waived. The rule provides one motion to recommit with or without instructions.
The rule provides that, notwithstanding the operation of the previous
question, the Chair may postpone further consideration of the bill to a time
designated by the Speaker. Testimony was heard from Representatives Grijalva
and Shuler.
FEDERAL RAILROAD SAFETY IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2007
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Railroads,
Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials approved for full Committee action, as
amended, H.R. 2095, Federal Railroad Safety Improvement Act of 2007.
[Page: D727]
COURT OF APPEALS FOR VETERANS CLAIMS
Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and
Memorial Affairs held a hearing on the Challenges Facing the U.S. Court of
Appeals for Veterans Claims. Testimony was heard from William P. Greene, Jr.,
Chief Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims; James P. Terry,
Chairman, Board of Veterans' Appeals, Department of Veterans Affairs; and
representatives of veterans' organizations.
MEDICARE FEE-FOR-SERVICE PLANS
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on Medicare
Advantage Private Fee-For-Service Plans. Testimony was heard from Abby L.
Block, Center for Beneficiary Choice, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid
Services, Department of Health and Human Services; Sean Dilweg, Commissioner
of Insurance, State of Wisconsin; and public witnesses.
GLOBAL WARMING--ECONOMIC IMPACTS
Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming: Held a hearing
entitled "Economic Impacts of Global Warming: Green Collar Jobs." Testimony
was heard from public witnesses.
2007/05/23
Daily Digest - Wednesday, May 23, 2007; pages D731 - D742
Committee Meetings
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and
Related Agencies approved for full Committee the Energy and Water Development
and Related Agencies appropriations for fiscal year 2008.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and
Related Agencies approved for full Committee action the Interior, Environment,
and Related Agencies appropriations for fiscal year 2008.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Financial Services: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R.
2347, amended, Iran Sanctions Enabling Act of 2007; H.R. 1980, Housing
Assistance Council Authorization Act of 2007; H.R. 1982, amended, Rural
Housing and Economic Development Act of 2007; H.R. 2139, amended, FHA
Manufactured Housing Loan Modernization Act of 2007.
The Committee began mark up of H.R. 1851, Section 8 Voucher Reform Act of
2007. Will continue tomorrow.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 885,
amended, International Nuclear Fuel for Peace and Nonproliferation Act 2007;
H.R. 2446, Afghanistan Freedom Support Act of 2007; H.R. 2420, amended,
International Climate Cooperation Re-Engagement Act of 2007.
The Committee also favorably considered the following resolutions and adopted
a motion urging the Chairman to request that they be considered on the
Suspension Calendar: S. 676, To provide that the Executive Director of the
Inter-American Development Bank or the Alternate Executive Director of the
Inter-American Development Bank may serve on the Board of Directors of the
Inter-American Foundation; H. Con. Res. 21, amended, Calling on the United
Nations Security Council to charge Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad with
violating the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of
Genocide and the United Nations Charter because of his calls for the
destruction of the State of Israel; H. Con. Res. 80, amended, Calling on the
Government of Uganda and the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) to recommit to a
political solution to the conflict in northern Uganda and to recommence vital
peace talks, and urging immediate and substantial support for the ongoing
peace process from the United States and the international community; H. Con.
Res. 151, amended, Noting the disturbing pattern of killings of dozens of
independent journalists in Russia over the last decade, and calling on Russian
President Vladimir Putin to authorize cooperation with outside investigators
in solving these murders; H. Con. Res. 152, Relating to the 40th anniversary
of the reunification of the City of Jerusalem; H. Res. 137, amended, Honoring
the life and six decades of public service of Jacob Birnbaum and especially
his commitment freeing Soviet Jews from religious, cultural and communal
extinction; H. Res. 226, amended, To recognize John Pehle for his
contributions to the Nation in helping rescue Jews and other minorities from
the Holocaust during World War II; H. Res. 233, amended, Recognizing over 200
years of sovereignty of the Principality of Liechtenstein, and expressing
support for efforts by the United States to continue to strengthen its
relationship with that country; H. Res. 295, amended, Recognizing the strong
alliance between the Republic of Korea and the United States and expressing
appreciation to the Republic of Korea for its efforts in the global war
against terrorism; H. Res. 395, Supporting the ideals and values of the
Olympic movement; H. Res. 397, amended, Condemning violence in Estonia and
attacks on Estonia's embassies in 2007, and expressing solidarity with the
Government and the people of Estonia; H. Res. 412, amended, Expressing
gratitude to her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness, Prince
Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, for their State Visit to the United States and
reaffirming the friendship that exists between the United States and the
United Kingdom; H. Res. 418, Recognizing and welcoming the delegation of
Presidents, Prime Ministers and Foreign Ministers from the Caribbean to
Washington, D.C., and commending the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) for holding
the Conference on the Caribbean; H. Res. 222, Calling on the Government of the
People's Republic of China to use its unique influence and economic leverage
to stop genocide and violence in Darfur, Sudan; and H. Res. 430, amended,
Calling on the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran to immediately
release Dr. Haleh Esfandiari.
[Page: D738]
U.S. AID TO PALESTINIANS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Middle East and South Asia held
a hearing on U.S. Assistance to the Palestinians. Testimony was heard from the
following officials of the Department of State: C. David Welch, Assistant
Secretary, Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs; LTG Keith W. Dayton, U.S. Security
Coordinator; and Mark Ward, Senior Deputy Assistant Administrator, Bureau for
Asia and the Near East, U.S. Agency for International Development.
U.S. AGRICULTURE SECURITY
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Emerging Threats,
Cybersecurity, and Science and Technology held a hearing entitled "Reducing
Threats to Our Nation's Agriculture: Authorizing a Bio and Agro-Defense
Facility." Testimony was heard from John Vitko, M.D., Head, Chemical and
Biological Division, Science and Technology Directorate, Department of
Homeland Security; and the following officials of the USDA: Edward Knipling,
M.D., Administrator, Agricultural Research Service; and Kevin Shea, Assistant
Administrator, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
U.S. ATTORNEYS INVESTIGATION
Committee on the Judiciary: Held a hearing to continue investigation into the
U.S. Attorneys Controversy and Related Matters. Testimony was heard from
Monica Goodling, former Senior Counsel to the Attorney General and White House
Liaison, Department of Justice.
IMMIGRATION REFORM
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship,
Refugees, Border Security, and International Law continued hearings on
Comprehensive Immigration Reform: Becoming Americans--U.S. Immigrant
Integration. Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
ENERGY POLICY REFORM
Committee on Natural Resources: Held a hearing on the Energy Policy Reform and
Revitalization Act of 2007. Testimony was heard from the following officials
of the Department of the Interior: Walter Cruickshank, Deputy Director,
Mineral Management Service; and Henri Bisson, Deputy Director, Bureau of Land
Management; Michael M. Simpson, Deputy Under Secretary, Natural Resources and
Environment, U.S. Forest Service, USDA; Vickie VanZandt, Senior Vice
President, Transmission Business Line, Bonneville Power Administration,
Department of Energy; Timothy R. E. Keeney, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Oceans
and Atmosphere, NOAA, Department of Commerce; and public witnesses.
CLIMATE PROTECTION OPPORTUNITIES
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Held a hearing on Achievements
and Opportunities for Climate Protection under the Montreal Protocol.
Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
WEAPONIZING SPACE
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on National
Security and Foreign Affairs held a hearing on Weaponizing Space: Is Current
U.S. Policy Protecting Our National Security? Testimony was heard from MG
James B. Armor, Jr., USAF, Director, National Security Space Office,
Department of Defense; Donald Mahley, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Threat
Reduction, Department of State; and public witnesses.
PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF THE SENATE AMENDMENT TO EMERGENCY SUPPLEMENTAL
APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007
Committee on Rules: The Committee granted, by a vote of 8 to 4, a rule
providing for consideration of the Senate amendment to H.R. 2206, Making
emergency supplemental appropriations and additional supplemental
appropriations for agriculture and other emergency assistance for the fiscal
year ending September 30, 2007. The rule makes in order a motion by the
chairman of the Committee of Appropriations to concur in the Senate amendment
with each of the two House amendments printed in this report. The rule waives
all points of order against the motion and provides that the Senate amendment
and the motion shall be considered as read. The rule provides one hour of
debate on the motion equally divided and controlled by the chairman and
ranking minority member of the Committee on Appropriations. The rule also
provides that the Chair shall divide the question of adoption of the motion
between the two House amendments and if both amendments are adopted, they will
be engrossed into a single amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R. 2206. The
rule provides that the Chair may postpone further consideration of the motion
to a time designated by the Speaker.
[Page: D739]
The rule further provides that during consideration in the Committee of the
Whole of a bill making FY08 supplemental appropriations for military
operations in Iraq or Afghanistan, before consideration of any other
amendment, it shall be in order to consider an amendment only proposing to add
to the bill the text of H.R. 2451. Such amendment shall be considered as read
and shall not be amendable or divisible. All points of order against such
amendment are waived except clause 9 of rule XXI. The rule provides that
section 4(a) of the resolution does not apply to a regular FY08 Department of
Defense appropriations bill. Testimony was heard from Chairman Obey.
LOBBYING TRANSPARENCY ACT OF 2007; HONEST LEADERSHIP AND OPEN GOVERNMENT ACT
OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 7 to 4, a rule providing for
consideration of H.R. 2317, Lobbying Transparency Act of 2007 and H.R. 2316,
Honest Leadership and Open Government Act of 2007.
With respect to H.R. 2317, the rule provides a closed rule with one hour of
debate equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority member
of the Committee on the Judiciary. The amendment in the nature of a substitute
recommended by the Committee on the Judiciary, modified by the amendment
printed in part A of the report, shall be considered as adopted and the bill,
as modified, shall be considered as read. The rule provides one motion to
recommit with or without instructions.
With respect to H.R. 2316, the rule provides a structured rule with one hour
of general debate equally divided and controlled by the chairman and ranking
minority member of the Committee on the Judiciary. The rule waives all points
of order against consideration of the bill except for those arising under
clauses 9 or 10 of rule XXI. The rule considers as an original bill for the
purpose of further amendment the amendment in the nature of a substitute
recommended by the Committee on the Judiciary. The committee amendment shall
be considered as read. The rule waives all points of order against the
committee amendment except for those arising under clauses 9 or 10 of rule
XXI. The rule makes in order those amendments printed in part B of the report
and waives all points of order against such amendments except for those
arising under clauses 9 or 10 of rule XXI. The rule provides one motion to
recommit with or without instructions.
The rule permits the Chair, during consideration of either H.R. 2317 or H.R.
2316, to postpone further consideration until a time designated by the
Speaker. Finally the rule amends the Rules of the House governing Member and
staff attendance at charitable events. Testimony was heard from Chairman
Conyers and Representatives Jackson Lee of Texas, Cardoza, Kaptur,
Abercrombie, Moore of Kansas, Smith of Texas, Dreier, Wolf, Castle, English,
Terry, Flake, Kirk, Ginny Brown-Waite of Florida, and Gingrey.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Science and Technology: Ordered reported the following bills:
H.R. 364, amended, To provide for the establishment of the Advanced Research
Projects Agency-Energy; H.R. 1467, 10,000 Trained by 2010 Act; H.R. 1716,
amended, Green Energy Education Act of 2007; and H.R. 632, amended, H-Prize
Act of 2007.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Small Business: Ordered reported the following bills: H.R. 2359,
SBA Entrepreneurial Development Programs Act of 2007; H.R. 2366, SBA Veterans'
Programs Act of 2007; H.R. 2284, To amend the Small Business Act to expand and
improve the assistance provided by Small Business Development Centers to
Indian tribe members, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians; H.R. 2397, SBA
Women's Business Programs Act of 2007; and H.R. 2389, Small Energy Efficient
Businesses Act.
MISCELLANEOUS MATTERS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Ordered reported H.R. 2011, To
designate the Federal building and United States courthouse located at 100
East 8th Avenue in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, as the "George Howard, Jr., Federal
Building and United States Courthouse."
The Committee also approved the following: General Services Administration
Capital Investment Resolutions, as amended; and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Survey Resolutions.
IRS USE OF PRIVATE COLLECTION FIRMS
Committee on Ways and Means: Held a hearing on IRS's Private Debt Collection.
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the IRS, Department of the
Treasury: Nina E. Olson, National Taxpayer Advocate; and Kevin M. Brown,
Acting Commissioner; Gregory D. Kutz, Managing Director, Forensic Audits and
Special Investigations, GAO; and public witnesses.
[Page: D740]
BRIEFING--HOT SPOTS
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to
receive a briefing on Hot Spots. The Committee was briefed by departmental
witnesses.
2007/05/24
Daily Digest - Thursday, May 24, 2007; pages D743 - D752
Committee Meetings
FARM BILL EXTENSION ACT OF 2007
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry
approved for full Committee action, as amended, H.R. 2419, Farm Bill Extension
Act of 2007.
IRAQI POLICE TRAINING
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held
a hearing on training and development of the Iraqi police service. Testimony
was heard from the following officials of the Department of Defense: COL
Richard Swengros, USA, Assistant Commandant, U.S. Army Military Police School;
COL Robert J. Coates, USMC, Assistant Chief of Staff, Training and
Experimentation Group, First Marine Expeditionary; and LTC Robert E. McCarthy,
USMC, Executive Officer, Fifth Marine Regiment.
WORKPLACE SAFETY/OSHA COVERAGE
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Workforce Protections held a
hearing on Workplace Safety: Why Do Millions of Workers Remain Without OSHA
Coverage? Testimony was heard from public witnesses.
ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT ISSUES
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held
a hearing entitled "Legislative Hearing on Discussion Drafts Concerning Energy
Efficiency, Smart Electricity Grid, Energy Policy Act of 2005 Title XVII Loan
Guarantees, and Standby Loans for Coal-to-Liquids Projects." Testimony was
heard from the following officials of the Department of Energy: David Rodgers,
Deputy Assistant Secretary, Energy Efficiency; and Katherine A. Fredriksen,
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Policy and International Affairs; and
public witnesses.
SECTION 8 VOUCHER REFORM ACT OF 2007
Committee on Financial Services: Ordered reported, as amended, H.R. 1851,
Section 8 Voucher Reform Act of 2007.
[Page: D750]
INTERNATIONAL FOOD AID PROGRAMS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health held a
hearing on International Food Aid Programs: Options To Enhance Effectiveness.
Testimony was heard from William P. Hammink, Director, Office of Food for
Peace, U.S. Agency for International Development, Department of State; Thomas
Melito, Director, International Affairs and Trade, GAO; and public witnesses.
The Subcommittee also held a briefing on this subject. The Subcommittee was
briefed by Luis Eduardo Sitoe, Counselor Commercial, Embassy of the Republic
of Mozambique.
VISA WAIVER PROGRAM
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Europe held a hearing on
expanding the Visa Waiver Program, Enhancing Transatlantic Relations.
Testimony was heard from Stephen A. Edson, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Visa
Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Department of State; and Nathan A.
Sales, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Policy Development, Office of Policy,
Department of Homeland Security.
OPIC REAUTHORIZATION
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Terrorism, Nonproliferation, and
Trade held a hearing on the Reauthorization of OPIC. Testimony was heard from
Robert Mosbacher, Jr., President and CEO, OPIC; and public witnesses.
NATIONAL GUARD'S DOMESTIC READINESS
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Management, Investigations,
and Oversight held a hearing entitled "Examining the Impact of Equipment
Shortages on the National Guard's Readiness for Homeland Security Missions."
Testimony was heard from LTG H. Steven Blum, Chief, National Guard Bureau;
Department of Defense; MG Roger P. Lempke, Adjutant General, Nebraska; MG C.
Mark Bowen, Adjutant General, Alabama; and MG Robert P. French, Deputy
Adjutant General, Army, Joint Forces Headquarters, National Guard,
Pennsylvania.
IMMIGRATION REFORM
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship,
Refugees, Border Security, and International Law held a hearing on
Comprehensive Immigration Reform: Labor Movement Perspectives. Testimony was
heard from public witnesses.
KIDS AND THE OUTDOORS
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans
and the Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands held a joint
oversight hearing on No Child Left Inside: Reconnecting Kids with the
Outdoors. Testimony was heard from James Cason, Associate Deputy Secretary,
Department of the Interior; Gail Kimbell, Chief, Forest Service, USDA; Gina
McCarthy, Commissioner, Department of Environmental Protection State of
Connecticut; and public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Water and Power held a hearing
on the following bills: H.R. 31, Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District
Wastewater and Recycled Water Facilities Act of 2007; and H.R. 1526, Bay Area
Regional Water Recycling Program Authorization Act of 2007. Testimony was
heard from Robert Quint, Acting Deputy Commissioner, Operations, Bureau of
Reclamation, Department of the Interior; Nancy Parent, Councilmember,
Pittsburg, California; and public witnesses.
U.S. MILITARY MENTAL HEALTH
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Held a hearing on Invisible
Casualties: The Incidence and Treatment of Mental Health Problems by the U.S.
Military. Testimony was heard from Thomas Insel, Director, National Institute
of Mental Health, NIH, Department of Health and Human Services; from the
following officials of the Department of Defense: MG Galle Pollock, USA, Army
Surgeon General; Michael E. Kilpatrick, Deputy Director, Deployment Health
Support; and public witnesses.
NASA'S VIDEO RECORDS DESTRUCTION
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Investigations and
Oversight held a hearing on the NASA Administrator's Speech to Office of
Inspector General Staff, the Subsequent Destruction of Video Records, and
Associated Matters. Testimony was heard from the following officials of NASA:
Evelyn R. Klemstine, Assistant Inspector General, Auditing; Kevin Winters,
Assistant Inspector general, Investigations; Paul Morrell, Chief of Staff,
Office of the Administrator; and Michael Wholley, General Counsel.
SMALL BUSINESS HEALTH COVERAGE
Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing entitled "Expanding Small Business
Health Insurance Coverage Using the Private Reinsurance Market." Testimony was
heard from Leonard D. Crouse, Deputy Commissioner, Captive Insurance Division,
Department of Banking, Insurance, Securities and Health Care Administration,
State of Vermont; and public witnesses.
[Page: D751]
PUBLIC-PRIVATE HIGHWAY/TRANSIT PARTNERSHIPS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Highways and
Transit held a hearing on Public-Private Partnerships: State and User
Perspectives. Testimony was heard from Edward G. Rendell, Governor, State of
Pennsylvania; Alan Lowenthal, Chair, Senate Committee on Transportation and
Housing, State of California; Terri J. Austin, Chair, House Committee on Roads
and Transportation, State of Indiana; and public witnesses.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING TAX INCENTIVES
Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Select Revenue Measures held a
hearing on Tax Incentives for Affordable Housing. Testimony was heard from
Michael J. Desmond, Tax Legislative Counsel, Department of the Treasury;
Orlando J. Cabrera, Assistant Secretary, Office of Public and Indian Housing,
Department of Housing and Urban Development; Shaun Donovan, Commissioner,
Department of Housing Preservation and Development, City of New York; and
public witnesses.
BRIEFING--SITUATION IN LEBANON
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in executive session to
receive a briefing on the Situation in Lebanon. The Committee was briefed by
departmental witnesses.
BRIEFING--DNI
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Subcommittee on Intelligence
Community Management met in executive session to receive a briefing on DNI.
The Subcommittee was briefed by departmental witnesses.
2007/05/25
Daily Digest - Friday, May 25, 2007; pages D753 - D756
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
2007/06/04
Daily Digest - Monday, June 4, 2007; pages D758 - D764
Committee Meetings
No committee meetings were held.
2007/06/05
Daily Digest - Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Committee Meetings
HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS; SUBALLOCATION OF BUDGET ALLOCATIONS FISCAL
YEAR 2008; REVISED SUBALLOCATION OF BUDGET ALLOCATIONS FISCAL YEAR 2007
Committee on Appropriations: Ordered reported, as amended, the Homeland
Security Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008.
The Committee also approved the following: Report on the Suballocation of
Budget Allocations Fiscal Year 2008; and the Report on the Revised
Suballocation of Budget Allocations Fiscal Year 2007.
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Financial Services and General
Government approved for full Committee action the Financial Services and
General Government Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008.
STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR
2008
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and
Related Programs approved for full Committee action the State, Foreign
Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008.
PUBLIC SAFETY EMPLOYER-EMPLOYEE COOPERATION ACT OF 2007
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor
and Pensions held a hearing on Ensuring Collective Bargaining Rights for First
Responders: H.R. 980, Public Safety Employer-Employee Cooperation Act of 2007.
Testimony was heard from Representative Kildee; Wayne Seybold, Mayor, Marion,
Indiana; and public witnesses.
MISCELLANEOUS OCEANS MEASURES
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans
held a hearing on the following bills: H. Con. Res. 147, Recognizing 200 years
of research, service to the people of the United States, and stewardship of
the marine environment by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
and its predecessor agencies; H. Res. 186, Supporting the goals and ideals of
National Clean Beaches Week and recognizing the considerable value of American
beaches and their role in American culture; H.R. 1834, To authorize the
national ocean exploration program and the national undersea research program
within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; and H.R. 2400,
Ocean and Coastal Mapping Integration Act. Testimony was heard from Craig
McLean, Deputy Assistant Administrator, Programs and Administration, Office of
Oceanic and Atmospheric Research, NOAA, Department of Commerce; and public
witnesses.
AFGHANISTAN FREEDOM AND SECURITY SUPPORT ACT OF 2007
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, a structured rule providing 1
hour of general debate on H.R. 2446, Afghanistan Freedom and Security Support
Act of 2007, equally divided and controlled by the chairman and ranking
minority member of the Committee on Foreign Affairs. The rule waives all
points of order against consideration of the bill except clauses 9 and 10 of
rule XXI and provides that the bill shall be considered as read.
No amendments shall be in order except those printed in the Rules Committee
report accompanying the resolution. The amendments made in order may be
offered 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 division of the question in the House or in the
Committee of the Whole. The rule waives all points of order against such
amendments except clauses 9 and 10 of rule XXI. The rule provides one motion
to recommit with or without instructions. Finally, the rule provides that the
Chair may postpone further consideration of the bill to a time designated by
the Speaker. Testimony was heard from Chairman Lantos and Representatives
Jackson-Lee of Texas, Costa, Terry and Franks of Arizona.
ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN REDUCING ILLEGAL FILESHARING
Committee on Science and Technology: Held a hearing on the Role of Technology
in Reducing Illegal Filesharing: A University Perspective. Testimony was heard
from public witnesses.
SARBANES-OXLEY COMPLIANCE SMALL BUSINESS COSTS
Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing on Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404:
Will the SEC's and PCAOB's New Standards Lower Compliance Costs for Small
Companies? Testimony was heard from Christopher Cox, Chairman, SEC; and public
witnesses.
2007/06/06
Daily Digest - Wednesday, June 6, 2007; pages D774 - D784
Committee Meetings
FARM BILL EXTENSION ACT OF 2007
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Specialty Crops, Rural Development,
and Foreign Agriculture approved for full Committee action, as amended, H.R.
2419, Farm Bill Extension Act of 2007.
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES AND MILITARY CONSTRUCTION,
VETERANS AFFAIRS AND RELATED APPROPRIATIONS FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Appropriations: Ordered reported the following appropriations for
Fiscal Year 2008: Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies; and
Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legislative Branch approved for
full Committee action the Legislative Branch Appropriations for Fiscal Year
2008.
DOD'S BODY ARMOR PROGRAMS
Committee on Armed Services: Held a hearing on the Department of Defense body
armor programs. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Defense: LTG N. Ross Thompson III, USA, Military
Deputy/Director, Army Acquisition Corps, Office of the Assistant Secretary
(Acquisition , Logistics, and Technology); BG Mark Brown, USA, Program
Executive Officer, U.S. Army; Roger Smith, Deputy Assistant Secretary,
Littoral and Mine Warfare, Department of the Navy; COL Ed Smith, USMC, Product
Group Director, Combat Equipment and Support Systems, U.S. Marine Corps;
Douglas D. Thomas, Executive Director, Air Force Office of Special
Investigations, U.S. Air Force; and COL Kevin Noonan, USA, Program Executive
Office--Special Operations Forces--Warrior, U.S. Special Operations Command;
William M. Solis, Director, Defense Capabilities and Management Team, GAO; and
public witnesses.
NAVY BOAT BARRIERS PROCUREMENT
Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Seapower and Expeditionary Forces
held a hearing on procurement of Navy boat barriers. Testimony was heard from
the following officials of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service,
Department of the Navy: Tomas Betro, Director; and Cathy Riddick-Brown, Deputy
Assistant Director, Acquisition and Logistics; and James A. Williams,
Commissioner, Federal Acquisition Service, GSA.
CHILD PRODUCT SAFETY
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and
Consumer Protection held a hearing on measures to Improve Consumer Product
Safety for Children, H.R. 2474, To provide for an increased maximum civil
penalty for violations under the Consumer Product Safety Act; H.R. 1699, Danny
Keysar Child Product Safety Notification Act; H.R. 814, Children's Gasoline
Burn Prevention Act; and H.R. 1721, Pool and Spa Safety Act. Testimony was
heard from public witnesses.
CHINA FINANCIAL SERVICES SECTOR REFORM
Committee on Financial Services: Held a hearing entitled "U.S. Interests in
Reform of China's Financial Services Sector." Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
REAUTHORIZATION--NATIVE AMERICAN HOUSING ASSISTANCE
Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Housing and Community
Opportunity held a hearing entitled "Reauthorization of the Native American
Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act." Testimony was heard from
Orlando J. Cabrera, Assistant Secretary, Public and Indian Housing, Department
of Housing and Urban Development; and public witnesses.
[Page: D781]
U.S.-NORTH AFRICA POLICY CHALLENGERS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on U.S. Policy Challenges in
North Africa. Testimony was heard from C. David Welch, Assistant Secretary,
Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs, Department of State.
TUBERCULOSIS INCIDENT RESPONSE
Committee on Homeland Security: Held a hearing entitled "The XDR Tuberculosis
Incident: A Poorly Coordinated Federal Response to an Incident with Homeland
Implications." Testimony was heard from the following officials of the
Department of Homeland Security: Jeffrey Runge, M.D., Chief Medical Officer;
W. Ralph Basham, Commissioner, and Jayson P. Ahern, Assistant Commissioner,
Office of Field Operations, both with Customs and Border Protection; Julie
Gerberding, M.D., Director, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
Department of Health and Human Services.
NATIONAL BIO AND AGRO-DEFENSE FACILITY
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Emerging Threats,
Cybersecurity, and Science and Technology approved for full Committee action,
as amended, H.R. 1717, To amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish
a National Bio and Agro-defense Facility.
COMPREHENSIVE IMMIGRATION REFORM; RULES OF PROCEDURE PRIVATE IMMIGRATION BILLS
AND PRIVATE CLAIMS BILLS; POLICY ON GRANTING CHARTERS
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship,
Refugees, Border Security, and International Law, to continue hearings on
Comprehensive Immigration Reform: Business Community Perspectives. Testimony
was heard from public witnesses.
The Subcommittee also continued hearings on Comprehensive Immigration Reform:
Government Perspectives on Immigration Statistics. Testimony was heard from
Representatives Crowley and Rohrabacher; Ron Bird, Chief Economist and
Director, Office of Economic Policy and Analysis, Department of Labor; Michael
Hoefer, Director. Office of Immigration Statistics, Department of Homeland
Security; Charles Oppenheim, Chief, Visa Control and Reporting Division,
Department of State; and Ruth Ellen Wasem, Specialist in Immigration Policy,
CRS, Library of Congress.
The Subcommittee also adopted the following: Rules of Procedure and Statement
of Policy for Private Immigration Bills; Rules of Procedure for Private Claims
Bills, and the Subcommittee's Policy on the Granting of Federal Charters.
ENERGY POLICY REFORM AND REVITALIZATION ACT OF 2007
Committee on Natural Resources: Began markup of H.R. 2337, Energy Policy
Reform and Revitalization Act of 2007.
Will continue tomorrow.
FDA'S DRUG SAFETY EVALUATION OF AVANDIA
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Held a hearing on FDA's Role in
the Evaluation of Avandia's Safety. Testimony was heard from Andrew C. Von
Eschenbach, M.D., Commissioner, FDA, Department of Health and Human Services;
and public witnesses.
STEM CELL RESEARCH ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 2006
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, a closed rule. The rule provides
for 1 hour of debate on S. 5, Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2007,
equally divided and controlled by the chairman and ranking minority member of
the Committee on Energy and Commerce. The rule waives all points of order
against the bill and its consideration except those arising under close 10 of
rule XXI. The bill shall be considered as read. The rule provides one motion
to commit. Finally, the rule permits the Chair, during consideration of the
bill, to postpone further consideration of it to a time designated by the
Speaker. Testimony was heard from Representative DeGette and Weldon of
Florida.
LUMBEE RECOGNITION ACT
Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, a closed rule. The rule provides
1 hour of general debate in the House on H.R. 65, Lumbee Recognition Act,
equally divided and controlled by the chairman and ranking minority member of
the Committee on Natural Resources. The rule waives all points of order
against consideration of the bill except for clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. The
amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on
Natural Resources now printed in the bill, modified by the amendment printed
in the report, shall be considered as adopted. The rule waives all points of
order against the bill, as amended, and provides that the bill, as amended,
shall be considered as read. The rule provides one motion to recommit with or
without instructions. Finally, the rule provides that the Chair may postpone
further consideration of the bill to a time designated by the Speaker.
Testimony was heard from Representatives Faleomavaega, McIntyre. Schuler and
Shays.
[Page: D782]
MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Energy and Environment
approved for full Committee action, as amended the following bills: H.R. 906,
Global Change Research and Data Management Act of 2007; H.R. 2304, Advanced
Geothermal Energy Research and Development Act of 2007; and H.R. 2313, Marine
Renewable Energy Research and Development Act of 2007.
STEM EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Committee on Science and Technology: Subcommittee on Research and Science
Education held a hearing on STEM Education Programs. Testimony was heard from
Cora Marrett, Assistant Director, Directorate for Education and Human
Resources, NSF; Joyce Winterton, Assistant Administrator, Office of Education,
NASA; Bruce Fuchs, Director, Office of Science Education, NIH, Department of
Health and Human Services; and William Valdez, Director, Office of Workforce
Development for Teachers and Scientists, Office of Science, Department of
Energy.
DATA SECURITY
Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Finance and Tax held a hearing on
Data Security: Small Business Perspectives. Testimony was heard from public
witnesses.
NTSB AVIATION SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Subcommittee on Aviation held
a hearing on the National Transportation Safety Board's Most Wanted Aviation
Safety Improvements. Testimony was heard from Mark V. Rosenker, Chairman,
National Transportation Safety Board; Margaret Gilligan, Associate
Administrator, Aviation Safety, FAA, Department of Transportation; and public
witnesses.
2007/06/07
Daily Digest - Thursday, June 7, 2007; pages D786 - D796
Committee Meetings
FEDERAL CROP INSURANCE PROGRAM INTEGRITY AND EFFICACY
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk
Management held a hearing to review the integrity and efficacy of the Federal
Crop Insurance Program. Testimony was heard from the following officials of
the USDA: Eldon Gould, Administrator, Risk Management Agency; and Kathleen S.
Tighe, Deputy Inspector General; Robert A. Robinson, Managing Director,
Natural Resources and Environment, GAO; and public witnesses.
FARM BILL EXTENSION ACT OF 2007
Committee on Agriculture: Subcommittee on Horticulture and Organic Agriculture
approved for full Committee action, as amended, H.R. 2419, Farm Bill Extension
Act of 2007.
INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Appropriations: Ordered reported the Interior, Environment, and
Related Agencies Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2008.
LABOR, HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES
APPROPRIATIONS FISCAL YEAR 2008
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services,
Education, and Related Agencies approved for full Committee action the Labor,
Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations for
Fiscal Year 2008.
TEMPORARY FOREIGN LABOR RECRUITMENT AND EMPLOYMENT
Committee on Education and Labor: Held a hearing on Protecting U.S. and Guest
Workers: the Recruitment and Employment of Temporary Foreign Labor. Testimony
was heard from Ray Marshall, former Secretary of Labor; and public witnesses.
[Page: D790]
ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION REAUTHORIZATION
Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary
and Secondary Education held a hearing on Reauthorization of the Elementary
and Secondary Act: Current and Prospective Flexibility Under No Child Left
Behind. Testimony was heard from Rick Melmer, Secretary, Department of
Education, State of South Dakota; Kathleen Strauss, President, Board of
Education, State of Michigan; Carol Johnson, Superintendent, Memphis City
Schools, Memphis, State of Tennessee; and public witnesses.
ALTERNATIVE FUELS AND VEHICLES
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality held
a hearing entitled "Legislative Hearing on Discussion Draft Concerning
Alternative Fuels, Infrastructure, and Vehicles." Testimony was heard from
Alexander A. Karsner, Assistant Secretary, Energy Efficiency and Renewable
Energy, Department of Energy; Robert J. Meyers, Acting Assistant
Administrator, Office of Air and Radiation, EPA; and public witnesses.
INDIAN HEALTH CARE IMPROVEMENT ACT AMENDMENTS OF 2007
Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on
H.R. 1328, Indian Health Care Improvement Act Amendments of 2007. Testimony
was heard from Charles W. Grim, D.D.S., Assistant Surgeon General, Director,
Indian Health Service, Department of Health and Human Services; and public
witnesses.
IMPROVING CREDIT CARD PROTECTION
Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and
Consumer Credit held a hearing entitled "Improving Credit Card Consumer
Protection: Recent Industry and Regulatory Initiatives." Testimony was heard
from Frederic Mishkin, member, Board of Governors, Federal Reserve System; the
following officials of the Department of the Treasury: John Dugan, Comptroller
of the Currency; and John Reich, Director, Office Thrift Supervision; Sheila
Bair, Chairman, FDIC; Jo Ann Johnson, Chairman, National Credit Union
Administration; and public witnesses.
NIGERIA AT A CROSSROADS
Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health held a
hearing on Nigeria at a Crossroads: Elections, Legitimacy and a Way Forward.
Testimony was heard from Jendayi Frazer, Assistant Secretary, Bureau of
African Affairs, Department of State; and public witnesses.
SECURE BORDER INITIATIVE NETWORK
Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Border, Maritime, and Global
Counterterrorism held a hearing entitled "Project 28: The Future of SBInet."
Testimony was heard from the following officials of the Department of Homeland
Security: Chief David V. Aguilar, Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border
Protection; and Gregory Giddens, Executive Director, Secure Border Initiative;
and a public witness.
DOMESTIC SURVEILLANCE CONSTITUTIONAL LIMITATIONS
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and
Civil Liberties held an oversight hearing on the Constitutional Limitations on
Domestic Surveillance. Testimony was heard from Steven G. Bradbury, Assistant
Attorney General, Office of General Counsel, Department of Justice; Louis
Fisher, American Law Division, Library of Congress; and public witnesses.
BAIL BOND FORFEITURES/COURT SECURITY IMPROVEMENT
Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland
Security approved for full Committee action H.R. 660, Court Security
Improvement Act of 2007.
The Subcommittee also held a hearing on H.R. 2286, To amend title 18, United
States Code, and the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure with respect to bail
bond forfeitures. Testimony was head from Representatives Wexler, and Keller;
Tommy E. Miller, Judge, U.S. District Court, Eastern, Virginia; and a public
witness.
ENERGY POLICY REFORM AND REVITALIZATION ACT OF 2007
Committee on Natural Resources: Continued markup of H.R. 2337, Energy Policy
Reform and Revitalization Act of 2007.
Will continue June 13.
NATIONAL LANDSCAPE CONSERVATION SYSTEM ACT
Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and
Public Lands held a hearing on H.R. 2016, National Landscape Conservation
System Act. Testimony was heard from Representatives Bono and Moran of
Virginia; Elena Daly, Director, National Landscape Conservation System, Bureau
of Land Management, Department of the Interior; Richard Moe, President,
National Trust for Historic Preservation; and public witnesses.
D.C. AUTONOMY
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Federal
Workforce, Postal Service, and the District of Columbia held a hearing on D.C.
Autonomy. Testimony was heard from the following officials of the District of
Columbia: Adrian M. Fenty, Mayor; Vincent Gray, Chairman, City Council; Natwar
Gandhi, Chief Financial Officer; and Brian Flowers, General Counsel, City
Council; and public witnesses.
[Page: D791]
FEDERAL IT SECURITY
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Subcommittee on Information
Policy |
