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March 18, 2010 for yesterday's ticker entries click here



Thursday
March 18, 2010

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MarketWatch.com - MarketPulse

Senate Floor Today


A new newsbrief journal has been started at 07:53 Thursday March 18 2010

Facebook and Twitter feeds from yesterday's newsbrief journal can be found at the archive here


dccc: CBO: Health-care reform bill cuts deficit by $1.3 trillion over 20 years, covers 95% | WashPost's Ezra Klein http://bit.ly/dfYtou

from Twitter / dccc


U.S. Ambassador Says China Ties Will Mend

from BusinessWeek.com -- Asia


Health bill cuts deficit by more than $1 trillion

from MarketWatch.com - Real-time Headlines


Obama Says U.S.- Israel Relations Aren't Facing Crisis

from Palestinian News latest RSS headlines - Big News Network.com


Palestinian Official Says U.S. Envoy To Return To Mideast

from Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty


Economic Report: Factories expand in Philly region for 7th month

from MarketWatch.com - Top Stories


Retail Stocks: Retail stocks rise as Nike, GameStop top views

from MarketWatch.com - Top Stories


EPA to begin study on shale gas drilling

from Reuters: Top News
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency was set to announce on Thursday that it will begin to take a closer look at the environmental and human health impact of shale gas drilling, according to a U.S. congressman who wants to see more regulation of the practice.


Philly Fed factory activity index rises in March

from Reuters: Business News


SEC_News: SEC Suspends Trading In Securities Of 10 Companies - http://bit.ly/atNgVl

from Twitter / SEC_News


House leaders: Health-care plan will reduce deficit

from washingtonpost.com - Business by Paul Kane


Economic Report: Feb leading indicators tick up

from MarketWatch.com - All MarketWatch News - Personal Finance


Mortgages: 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averages 4.96%

from MarketWatch.com - All MarketWatch News - Personal Finance


CANADA newsbrief journal has been updated and posted
Presidential Memorandum Regarding Finding and Recapturing Improper Payments

President Obama Nominates Judge Leonard Stark and Amy Totenberg to the United States District Court

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 3/17/2010

Letter from the President to Congress Concerning a Strategic Communications Report

Statement from the Press Secretary on the "Trademark Technical and Conforming Amendment Act of 2010"

Letter from the President to Congress Concerning Declarations to the IAEA

A Premium on Accurate Information
Posted by Dan Pfeiffer on March 17, 2010 at 2:35 PM EDT

$3 Million to Protect Big Banks and Keep America's Economy at Risk
Posted by Jen Psaki on March 17, 2010 at 2:39 PM EDT

This week, Senator Chris Dodd introduced a financial reform bill that would begin to bring accountability to our financial institutions and ensure that American taxpayers would never again be on the hook to bail out firms that were deemed “Too Big to Fail.” The President immediately said that he would "work with Chairman Dodd and his colleagues to strengthen the bill and will fight against efforts to weaken it." Not surprisingly, opponents of reform went to work almost immediately taking him up on that fight.


Voices of Reform
Posted by Jesse Lee on March 17, 2010 at 3:30 PM EDT

3
Posted by Cammie Croft on March 18, 2010 at 9:42 AM EDT

Healthcare overhaul to cut deficit by over $100B: Hoyer

from Reuters: U.S.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said on Thursday that sweeping healthcare overhaul legislation was on track for passage by the U.S. House of Representatives and would cut the deficit by more than $100 billion in the first 10 years.


Leading indicators rise 0.1% in February

from MarketWatch.com - Real-time Headlines


Dow industrials gain 24.41 points to 10,758.08

from MarketWatch.com - Real-time Headlines


U.S. stocks advance after another round of data

from MarketWatch.com - Real-time Headlines


senatus: Federal grand jury subpoenas Nevada companies w/ Ensign ties - http://is.gd/aNktd

from Twitter / senatus


Meat Price Spreads

from USDA Economic Research Service - What's New
This data set provides monthly average price values, and the differences among those values, at the farm, wholesale, and retail stages of the production and marketing chain for selected cuts of beef, pork, and broilers. In addition, retail prices are provided for beef and pork cuts, turkey, whole chickens, eggs, and dairy products.


U.S. International Reserve Position

from U.S. Treasury
March 17, 2010
2010-3-17-17-40-14-28346


U.S. International Transactions, 4th Quarter 2009 and Year 2009

from U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis
The U.S. current-account deficit--the combined balances on trade in goods and services, income, and net unilateral current transfers--increased to $115.6 billion (preliminary) in the fourth quarter of 2009 from $102.3 billion (revised) in the third quarter. The increase was more than accounted for by an increase in the deficit on goods and, to a lesser extent, a decrease in the surplus on income. A decrease in net unilateral current transfers to foreigners and an increase in the surplus on services were partly offsetting.


LeaderHoyer: I challenge you: Can you distinguish GOP attacks from decade to decade? http://go.usa.gov/lSE #hcr

LeaderHoyer: Momentum is growing for #hcr- more Members said they'll vote yes today, and more polls show public support on the rise http://go.usa.gov/lhT

WisDems: Senate approves jobs bill: http://nyti.ms/ddU2UH

WisDems: Scott Walker continues grandstanding, puts fat cat donors and politics ahead of jobs for Wisconsin: http://bit.ly/9dqYVm

Twitter / whitehouse

WaysMeansCmte: RT @HealthReformNow: Benefits of Health Care Reform by Congressional District - http://go.usa.gov/lSN benefits for families, seniors, etc

WaysMeansCmte: Our Markup has concluded. Thank you for clicking in. If you missed it, you can find information here http://go.usa.gov/lJK

WaysMeansCmte: RT @HealthReformNow - CBO score: Cuts deficit by more than $130 billion in 1st 10 years(2010-19), $1.2 trillion in 2nd 10 yrs #hcr

Twitter / washingtonwatch

washdems: It's looking good for health care reform this week, but the battle won't be over. Learn more: http://ow.ly/1nx8q #hcr #wadem #p2

USTradeRep: Trans Pacific Partnership Negotiations Update: Day Three, http://ow.ly/1nm4D

USTradeRep: United States and India Sign Framework for Cooperation on Trade and Investment, http://ow.ly/1noqO

Twitter / usgao

usedgov: Sec Arne Duncan testified to Senate and House committees. Read testimony or watch video. More resources as available. http://go.usa.gov/lhc

Twitter / UN_News_Centre

TNSenateDems: Sen. Reginald Tate passes Senate bill to clean up neighborhoods: http://kl.am/8SSk

TNSenateDems: Video of @andyberke supporting clean energy jobs initiative: http://kl.am/8Th3

SenChrisDodd: Have questions about Senator Dodd's financial reform legislation? Find the answers here: http://bit.ly/aXcUOH

SenChrisDodd: Irish Echo Online - Chris Dodd reflects and looks ahead: http://bit.ly/brkTJj

Twitter / senatus

Twitter / SenateFloor

Twitter / SenateDemocrats

RepCarnahan: Here's a write up on that transit jobs bill we're working on by @eschor: http://bit.ly/cg5mBc

PressSec: some may recall this http://bit.ly/MG1kw - well today the Dow Jones "climbed to a new 17-month high" http://bit.ly/aDekEV

PressSec: RT @MysteryPollster New polls confirm rising support for health reform, esp among Dems http://is.gd/aMl95 // for those who how it's playin'

OversightDems: The House marked #SunshineWeek with passage of open government legislation http://bit.ly/bI525E #p2

OversightDems: Hearing at 10AM: "Rewarding Bad Actors: Why Do Poor Performing Contractors Continue to Get Government Business?"

OversightDems: You can watch the webcast of our hearing at: http://oversight.house.gov

NVSenateDems: RGJ: "Region shows job opportunities in many fields" ... http://ow.ly/1nzmD

MISenDems: Sen. Prusi stands up for state employees: http://www.senate.michigan.gov/dem/play.php?id=1052

ILCollegeDems: RT @mmfa: AP "fact check" falsely suggests #hcr would raise premiums. http://bit.ly/9Eo1wc #hcr #p2 #noisemachine

HouseDemocrats: By the numbers: Republican leadership acting against the best interests of their constituents http://bit.ly/9GI168 #HCR

HouseDemocrats: GOP obstructionism quiz: identify which GOP quotes were against Social Security, Medicare or #HCR: http://bit.ly/bBT4v0

HouseDemocrats: Seniors have been a top target for #HCR misinformation. Watch now as Dems correct the record: http://bit.ly/9qJpbQ

HASCDemocrats: RT @US_Stratcom: Gen Chilton's House Armed Services Subcommittee, Strategic Forces Subcommittee Testimony: http://bit.ly/b8QfsG Video: h ...

HASCDemocrats: RT @JIEDDO: @JIEDDO Director Testifies Before the HASC on Protecting the Force. Release: http://bit.ly/dnO5ZO, Live Video: http://bit.ly ...

HASCDemocrats: Hearing tomorrow at 10am on budget with Gen Fraser, Commander #SOUTHCOM, @southcomwatch and Gen Renuart, Commander #NORTHCOM, @noradnorthcom

GovContracts: Renewal of Maintenance for StandGuard Anti-Virus Software: Social Security Administration Office of Budget, Financ... http://bit.ly/cAUzAr

GeorgiaDemocrat: A message from the Census Bureau http://bit.ly/bv7aBm

foreignoffice: Foreign Secretary @DMiliband launches annual FCO #humanrights report - see http://ow.ly/1nto6 for excerpts of his speech

dscc: See Jane Lie: http://bit.ly/cm5Nfl

dscc: RT @nvdems Lowden and Tarkanian love tax cuts... but not a bipartisan jobs bill that cuts taxes for NV businesses? http://bit.ly/dup6oE

DNCYouthCouncil: Join President Obama in Fairfax, VA on March 19th for the final push for health care reform! http://bit.ly/dkpioS

DNCYouthCouncil: Youth Organizations Ask Congress for Help http://bit.ly/aEOgDq

DemocratsDotOrg: In 9 states there is no specific law making it illegal for insurers to reject applicants who are survivors of domestic violence.

DemocratsDotOrg: Tea parties losing steam? At Tea Party anti-#hcr rally yesterday, even Fox was underwhelmed by turnout. http://j.mp/3-j

DemocratsDotOrg: For GOPers complaining: process under consideration for passing #HCR in the House has been used for 8 decades, by Ds & Rs http://j.mp/9aImES

DemocratsDotOrg: Even senior GOP Rep. @EricCantor says the process being considered for passing #HCR in the House is legitimate: http://j.mp/aFpcrg

DemocratsDotOrg: .@NYTimes proves that @Senate_GOPs obstruct for the sake of obstruction, regardless of the consequences for the country. http://j.mp/9NjWtg

DemocratsDotOrg: RT @whitehouse: Don’t forget, if you’re in DC area join Obama Friday morning at Patriot Center or RT to spread the word http://bit.ly/aavNaQ

DemocratsDotOrg: This is what's wrong with DC: @Senate_GOPs like Mitch McConnell, obstructing the nation's business for political gain. http://j.mp/9NjWtg

DemocratsDotOrg: RT @woodhouseb: #iamherefor uninsured children & their parents who'll sleep easier at night once they can afford coverage for the first time

democracy_now: Amy Goodman to appear in Washington, DC on 03/20 http://bit.ly/aEiq8G

dccc: Anti-reform breast cancer claim earns “Pants on Fire” rating from Factcheck.org: http://bit.ly/cWKamJ

dccc: Factcheck.org: Anti-reform breast cancer ad contains numerous “falsehoods,” is “misleading” http://bit.ly/cWKamJ

BarackObama: I am here for Natoma Canfield & countless others who need health reform. Who are you fighting for? #iamherefor http://j.mp/c-d

BarackObama: I am here for the millions who are denied coverage because of preexisting conditions. #iamherefor http://j.mp/c-d

BarackObama: Join HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius for a live video chat on health reform today at 5:30pm ET: http://j.mp/dvUmn2

White House rips business lobby over financial reform

from Reuters: Politics
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The White House lashed out at a major U.S. business lobbying organization on Wednesday for spending millions of dollars to fight legislation that would overhaul regulation of Wall Street firms.


Obama picks up new support for health bill

from Reuters: Politics
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Barack Obama picked up support for healthcare reform on Wednesday from a prominent liberal and a group of Catholic nuns, who broke with bishops on the issue of abortion and urged passage of the overhaul.


U.S. hopes Obama trip will boost trade with Indonesia

from Reuters: Politics
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States hopes President Barack Obama's visit next week to Indonesia will help spur reforms that boost trade with Southeast Asia's largest economy and the world's fourth most populous nation.


Obama says Israel home plans not helpful for peace

from Reuters: Politics
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Barack Obama said on Wednesday Israeli plans to build more homes near East Jerusalem were not helpful for the Middle East peace process, but he said the issue had not led to a crisis with one of the United States' closest allies.


U.S. tells China yuan issue is of "real concern"

from Reuters: Politics
BEIJING (Reuters) - The United States kept up pressure on China on Thursday to let the yuan climb as Beijing disclosed it was sounding out exporters on whether they could cope with a stronger exchange rate.


Healthcare overhaul to cut deficit: Hoyer

from Reuters: Politics
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said on Thursday that proposed final healthcare legislation would cut the U.S. deficit by more than $100 billion over the first 10 years.


Left still wary of Wall St. bill

from Politico.com: congress by Eamon Javers
Obama can't afford to alienate progressives as he negotiates a financial reform deal.


OCC Assesses Civil Money Penalty Against Wachovia

from OCC News Releases by Office of the Comptroller of the Currency


mayoungdems: The hardest things to convey is the terrible cost of inaction both in human & economic terms (@EzraKlein) http://bit.ly/cXV4UV #YDM #HCR #p2

NAACP: Reflections on the First 100 Years

from Library of Congress: New Webcasts
In commemoration of 100 years of the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People), the Library of Congress sponsored the symposium "The NAACP: Reflections of the First 100 Years." The symposium explored both the history and future of the NAACP.


France: Highlights Of Parliamentary Report On The Wearing Of The Full Veil (BURQA)

from Law Library of Congress: Research Reports
The Law Library of Congress is proud to present a new item focusing on the wearing of the full veil in France.


Sweden: Parliament Approves Resolution on Armenian Genocide

from Law Library of Congress: Global Legal Monitor
Human rights - On March 11, 2010, the Swedish Parliament adopted by a majority of one vote (131-130) a resolution that recognizes


European Union: General Court Rejects Challenge to Emissions Trading Directive

from Law Library of Congress: Global Legal Monitor
Environment - On March 2, 2010, the General Court of the European Union rejected a challenge, brought by "the world's largest steel producer" Arcelor S.A., to the EU's 2003 Emissions Trading Directive. The Luxembourg-based company argued that several...


United Nations / World Trade Organization: Agreement on Technical Assistance in Africa

from Law Library of Congress: Global Legal Monitor
International law - On March 9, 2010, a memorandum of understanding was concluded by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) and the World Trade Organization (WTO) at the UNECA offices in Addis Ababa. The agreement, which was... The Global Legal Monitor from the Law Library of Congress covers legal news and developments worldwide.


Federal Agencies Launch Website to Highlight U.S. Participation in the World Urban Forum

from HUD Press Releases
WASHINGTON - Four federal agencies are launching a new website today to highlight the increased role the U.S. is playing in addressing 21st century urbanization, housing and sustainability issues facing the nations of the world. The White House Office of Urban Affairs, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Agency for International Development, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture launched the interagency website featuring World Urban Forum (WUF) roundtable discussions, web chats, presentations, and workshops at www.hud.gov/wuf.


"Neighborhood Stabilization Boot Camp" to Draw Top Officials from 12 Cities and The Obama Administration

from HUD
BOSTON - Dozens of local officials from 12 of the regions hit hardest by the housing crisis are meeting at Harvard University March 14 -16 to develop new strategies for stabilizing neighborhoods that experience large numbers of foreclosures.


GAO-10-451T, Fiscal Year 2011 Budget Request: U.S. Government Accountability Office, March 17, 2010

GAO-10-529T, Medicare Part D: Spending, Beneficiary Out-of-Pocket Costs, and Efforts to Obtain Price Concessions for Certain High-Cost Drugs, March 17, 2010

GAO-10-369, Media Programming: Factors Influencing the Availability of Independent Programming in Television and Programming Decisions in Radio, March 17, 2010

GAO-10-500T, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance: Overarching Guidance Is Needed to Advance Information Sharing, March 17, 2010

GAO-10-484T, Aviation Security: TSA Is Increasing Procurement and Deployment of the Advanced Imaging Technology, but Challenges to This Effort and Other Areas of Aviation Security Remain, March ...

FRB Greenlee, Insurance Holding Company Supervision

from FRB: Speeches and Testimony
Testimony before the Subcommittee on Capital Markets, Insurance, and Government Sponsored Enterprises, Committee on Financial Services, U.S. House of Representatives, Washington, D.C.


Congressional Record Latest Daily Digest for Wednesday, March 17, 2010

from Daily Digest LOC.gov
Latest update was Wednesday, March 17, 2010


World Leaders - Updates for 10 - 16 Mar 2010

from CIA Library
March 17, 2010 - Posted updated Chiefs of State and Cabinet Members of Foreign Governments with updated entries for Afghanistan, Armenia, Barbados, Chile, Guatemala, Ireland, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Lithuania, Mexico, Nepal, Niger, Philippines, San Marino, Senegal, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia. Changes reflect updates in leadership, positions, or the spelling of officials' names in the country listings during the period 10 - 16 Mar 2010.


H.R. 3954, Florida National Forest Land Adjustment Act of 2009

from CBO's Latest 10 Documents
Cost estimate for the bill as ordered reported by the House Committee on Agriculture on March 3, 2010


VIDEO: Senate Foreign Relations Cmte. Hearing on the Ambassador to Syria Nomination

from C-SPAN Recent Video
The Senate Foreign Relations Committee held a confirmation hearing on the nomination of Robert Stephen Ford to be U.S. ambassador to the Syrian Arab Republic.
Length: 1 hr. 24 min.

Published: Tuesday at 8pm (ET)


VIDEO: State Department Press Briefing Wed Mar 17

from C-SPAN Recent Video
The State Department said five U.S. citizens arrested last December in Pakistan have been formerly charged with plotting acts of terrorism. Spokesman Mark Toner also talked about Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s upcoming trip to Moscow.
Length: 22 min.

Published: Wednesday at 1pm (ET)


VIDEO: Rep. Dennis Kucinich (D-OH) Press Conference on Health Care Vote

from C-SPAN Recent Video
Rep. Dennis Kucinich (D-OH) said he will vote in favor of health care legislation making its way through the House. Mr. Kucinich, who recently said he would vote against the measure, cited pressure from President Obama and congressional leaders.
Length: 27 min.

Published: Wednesday at 10am (ET)


VIDEO: House Appropriations Cmte. Hearing on FBI Budget

from C-SPAN Recent Video
FBI Director Robert Mueller testified about the President’s FY 2011 budget request for the FBI. House Appropriations Committee members also questioned Director Mueller about the attempted bombing of Flight 253 on Christmas Day. Rep. Alan Mollohan (D-WV) chairs the Appropriations Subcommittee on Justice.
Length: 2 hr. 14 min.

Published: Wednesday at 2pm (ET)


VIDEO: House Education Hearing on Education Act Reauthorization with Education Sec. Arne Duncan

from C-SPAN Recent Video
Secretary of Education Arne Duncan testified before the House Education and Labor Committee about the reauthorization of the Education Act. Rep. George Miller (D-CA) chairs the committee.
Length: 1 hr. 55 min.

Published: Wednesday at 2:30pm (ET)


VIDEO: House Financial Services Cmte. Hearing on Fed's Role in Bank Supervision

from C-SPAN Recent Video
Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke testified alongside former Fed Chairman Paul Volcker at a House Financial Services Committee hearing on the Fed's role in bank supervision. Committee Chairman Barney Frank (D-MA) held the hearing to examine the "link between Fed Bank supervision and monetary policy."
Length: 3 hr. 10 min.

Published: Wednesday at 2pm (ET)


H.R.3433

from Bills Presented to the President
To amend the North American Wetlands Conservation Act to establish requirements regarding payment of the non-Federal share of the costs of wetlands conservation projects in Canada that are funded under that Act, and for other purposes.


Clinton in Moscow for Mideast, nuclear arms talks

from AP Top Political News At 5:39 a.m. EST by By ROBERT BURNS
MOSCOW (AP) -- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton on Thursday opened two days of talks with Russian leaders on nuclear arms control and other security issues, and separately with top international diplomats on the outlook for bringing Israel and the Palestinians back to peace talks....


Obama back to campaign-style politics, a strength

from AP Top Political News At 5:39 a.m. EST by By PHILIP ELLIOTT
WASHINGTON (AP) -- After a rousing campaign rally for New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine last summer, President Barack Obama flashed a broad smile to an aide as he boarded his helicopter back to the White House....


9/11 Health Bill Clears Another Hurdle

from AFL-CIO NOW BLOG by Mike Hall


Senate Passes Jobs Bill, Obama Signature Next

from AFL-CIO NOW BLOG by Mike Hall


Interior Democrats Caucuses for Districts 6-12
Saturday, March 20th, 9:00am at J.P. Jones Community Development Center

SFYD invades the California Democratic Party Convention
Friday, April 16th, 6:00pm at Los Angeles Convention Center

Fahrenkamp Lunch
Friday, March 19th, 12:00pm at Westmark Hotel

Child Care Information and Strategizing Session
Monday, March 22nd, 6:30pm at Scadding Court Community Centre, Rooms 1 and 2

Evening Brown Bag, March 23 | Featuring Barbara Ann Radnofsky
Tuesday, March 23rd, 6:30pm at Harris County Democratic Party Headquarters

4th Annual Democratic BBQ
Saturday, April 24th, 11:30am at Hays County Courthouse Lawn

FINAL Legislative Lunch with Sen. Kelly and Rep. Rusche
Tuesday, March 23rd, 11:45am at Berryhill

The WhyTuesdaySF " Drive for 5" | Saturday April 3rd | Ella Hill Hutch
Saturday, April 3rd, 11:00am at Ella Hill Hutch Community Center

County Convention
Saturday, March 20th, 6:00pm at The Home of Dale Henry, 3578 S Highway 183, Lampasas TX 76550

Getting To Know Us Lunch / Tour
Thursday, March 25th, 11:30am at San Antonio Lighthouse for the Blind

Rep. Moody's Monopoly Buster Ballot
Wednesday, March 17th, 10:00am at Wherever You Are, USA

COPE Boot Camp
Saturday, March 27th, 9:00am at 3360 Airport Rd., Allentown PA

Bernanke: Fed should monitor all banks
Posted: March 17th, 2010 04:29 PM ET

From CNNMoney.com Senior Writer Jennifer Liberto
Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke told the House Financial Services panel said he's 'quite concerned' about proposals to limit the Federal Reserve's regulatory power to watching out for only the biggest banks.
Washington (CNNMoney.com) - Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke made his strongest case yet to Congress on Wednesday for the Federal Reserve keeping its regulatory oversight powers over banks large and small.


Nuns break with bishops to support health care bill
Posted: March 17th, 2010 04:37 PM ET

Dennis Kucinich defends his health care position
Posted: March 18th, 2010 07:03 AM ET

Clinton in Russia for nuke, Mideast talks
Posted: March 18th, 2010 07:32 AM ET

Biden's zings Palin, Fox News
Posted: March 18th, 2010 09:32 AM ET

Diving Into C-SPAN's Archives
We noted a few days ago that C-SPAN put its entire video archive online -- 160,000 hours of footage, all available free of charge. However, digging out some of the more memorable moments from our political history has only just begun.

Delayed CBO Score Pushes Health Care Vote

Illinois Moves Back Primary Date
After Illinois set a modern record for low turnout in February's primary, Gov. Pat Quinn (D) signed legislation to move the date back to March, the Chicago Tribune reports.

Republican Attacks on Health Reform: Dèjá Vu All Over Again

Republicans say heath reform will impose economic disaster and create a socialist society that would take away our freedom and end America as we know it. But didn't they say the exact same thing in the 30s and 60s in protest of Social Security and Medicare? And hasn't history has proven them wrong? Those programs have made our nation stronger and now enjoy widespread bipartisan support.

Dèjá vu all over again: can you distingush GOP attacks from decade to decade? Take the challenge.

###


From the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: The US, Northeast, and Boston
Consumer Price Index Data Summary for February 2010 is now available at
http://www.bls.gov/xg_shells/ro1xg01a.htm . Please refer questions to
BLSInfoBoston@bls.gov .

From the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: The US, Dallas, Houston Consumer
Price Index Summary (Blue Card) for February 2010 is now available at
http://www.bls.gov/xg_shells/ro6xg01a.htm . Please refer questions to
BLSInfoDallas@bls.gov .

Deputy Treasury Secretary Wolin Welcomes Paris Club Commitment to Cancel Afghanistan's Debt
March 17, 2010

TG-593

Statement On FEMA Administrator Fugate's Upcoming Trip To North Dakota
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 10:49:04 -0500
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate will travel to North Dakota on March 22 to meet with the Governor, members of the state's Congressional delegation, and local officials about flood preparedness and response in the region.

National Small Business Week 2010 - Washington, DC (5/23-5/25)
The nation's top entrepreneurs will be honored at the U.S. Small Business Administration's National Small Business Week events to be held May 23-25, in Washington, D.C. A series of forums gives small business owners and entrepreneurs a chance to come together and celebrate the best that the small business community has to offer. Attendees will also be able to attend interactive forums and a town hall to learn about new issues and trends in the small business community, from innovation to exporting to social media. Registration is $6.

From the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: The US, Midwest, West Region
Consumer Price Index Summary (Blue Card) for February 2010 is now available
at http://www.bls.gov/xg_shells/ro7xg01a.htm . Please refer questions to
BLSInfoKansasCity@bls.gov .

From the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: The US, South Region, Atlanta,
Miami-Ft. Lauderdale Consumer Price Index Summary (Blue Card) for February
2010 is now available at http://www.bls.gov/xg_shells/ro4xg01a.htm . Please
refer questions to BLSInfoAtalanta@bls.gov .

Good afternoon,

9 -- that's number of states and the District of Columbia where there is still no specific law that makes it illegal for insurers to reject applicants who are survivors of domestic violence by citing the history of domestic violence as a pre-existing condition.1

Unfortunately, the gender inequalities across our broken heath care system don't end there. In many states, insurance companies can still discriminate on the basis of gender -- charging women higher premiums than men simply because of their gender or denying coverage because of so-called "pre-existing conditions" like being pregnant, experiencing a prior pregnancy complication, or having undergone a C-section. And health plans in the individual market often do not cover basic maternity care.

President Obama's proposal for health insurance reform would end the days of discrimination based on gender. Insurance companies would be banned from denying coverage because of a pre-existing condition and would have to cover preventative care like mammograms.

For America's women and families, the time is now for health insurance reform.

9 is the latest number in ‘Health Reform by the Numbers,' our online campaign to raise awareness about why we just can't wait any longer for health insurance reform. Help spread the word by sharing this message with your family, friends and online networks.

Let's get it done.

Nancy-Ann DeParle
Director, White House Office of Health Reform


The United States and Pakistan Strategic Dialogue
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 06:00:00 -0500

From the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: The Philadelphia Regional Office
Consumer Price Index Announcement (Blue Card) for February 2010 is now
available at http://www.bls.gov/xg_shells/ro3xg01a.htm . Please refer
questions to BLSInfoPhiladelphia@bls.gov .

DOE Releases New Report on Benefits of Recovery Act for Small Businesses in Clean Energy, Environmental Management Sectors

WASHINGTON – The Department of Energy today released a new report highlighting the benefits of the Recovery Act to small businesses throughout the clean, renewable energy industry and environmental management sector. The report found that as of early March 2010, small businesses have been selected to receive nearly $5.4 billion in funding across a number of Recovery Act and related programs, including loans, loan guarantees, grants, contracts and tax incentives, in partnership with the Department of Treasury. The report highlights 26 small businesses in a range of clean energy technologies, such as wind, solar, biofuels, along with critical new infrastructure, like Smart Grid, advanced batteries, energy storage, and energy efficiency tools. It also notes small businesses that are helping advance responsible environmental clean-up efforts.

Hoyer Discusses Health Insurance Reform and Republican Hypocrisy on "Good Morning America"

This morning, Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (MD) appeared on ABC's “Good Morning America” to discuss moving toward passage of health insurance reform. Appearing with Republican Whip Eric Cantor (VA), Leader Hoyer condemned Republican hypocrisy on process and pointed to their long record of using the same procedure to pass legislation.

Read excerpts from the interview below and click here to watch the complete interview.

LEADER HOYER:
“This is a procedure that was used almost 100 times under Newt Gingrich. And over 100 times by Speaker Hastert, which Mr. Cantor supported, most of the time, if not all of the time. This is not an unusual procedure…. The process that the Republicans used 72% of the time that it's been used.”

WHIP CANTOR:
“Steny is right. The rules of the House allow for this deeming provision. It's called a self-executing provision, which means that once the bill, the rule for the next bill passes, the Senate bill automatically is deemed as having passed.”

 

###


DHS Unveils Initiatives to Enhance E-Verify
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 06:00:00 -0500
Secretary Napolitano joined U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Alejandro Mayorkas to announce a trio of initiatives to strengthen the efficiency and accuracy of the E-Verify system.

TTB.gov Homepage for TTB.gov. We have recently updated this information to announce the establishment of the Calistoga Viticultural Area, and it is now available.

From the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: The US, Northeast Region, and
New York-Northern New Jersey Consumer Price Index data summary for February
2010 is now available at http://www.bls.gov/xg_shells/ro2xg01a.htm . Please
refer questions to BLSinfoNY@bls.gov .

Federal Banking Agencies Issue Policy Statement on Funding and Liquidity Risk Management

The federal banking agencies,1 in conjunction with the Conference of State Bank Supervisors (CSBS), released a policy statement today on their expectations for sound funding and liquidity risk management practices. This policy statement, adopted by each of the agencies, summarizes the principles of sound liquidity risk management issued previously and, when appropriate, supplements them with the “Principles for Sound Liquidity Risk Management and Supervision” issued in September 2008 by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision.

Given the recent market turmoil, the agencies are reiterating the importance of effective liquidity risk management for the safety and soundness of financial institutions. This policy statement emphasizes the importance of cash flow projections, diversified funding sources, stress testing, a cushion of liquid assets, and a formal, well-developed contingency funding plan as primary tools for measuring and managing liquidity risk. The agencies expect each financial institution to manage funding and liquidity risk using processes and systems that are commensurate with the institution’s complexity, risk profile, and scope of operations.

###


Comptroller of the Currency Hosts Community Bank Directors Workshop in Philadelphia


WASHINGTON — The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency will host a workshop for directors of nationally chartered community banks in Philadelphia, at the Park Hyatt Philadelphia, April 12-14, 2010.

The workshop provides practical information that expands bank directors' skills and understanding of issues facing their banks. Entitled, “A Director’s Challenge: Mastering the Basics,” the workshop is geared primarily to directors of national community banks with assets of less than $1 billion who would like to review the fundamental requirements of their position.

The workshop costs $100. Attendees receive pre-course reading and course materials, an OCC telephone seminar CD, a community bank supervision handbook, other supervisory material, a continental breakfast, and lunch. The workshop is limited to the first 35 registrants.

For information or to register online, visit http://www.occ.gov/conference.htm or call 336-451-0557.

###


Comptroller of the Currency Hosts Community Bank Directors Workshops in Shreveport, Louisiana


WASHINGTON — The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency will host workshops for directors of nationally chartered community banks in Shreveport, Louisiana, at the Hilton Shreveport, April 20-21, 2010.

The workshops provide practical information that expands bank directors' skills and understanding of issues facing their banks. The workshops cover compliance risk (“Compliance Risk: What Directors Need to Know”) on April 20, and credit risk (“Credit Risk: A Director’s Focus”) on April 21.

Workshops will be held on consecutive days and cost $65 each. Individuals may register for one or both of the workshops. Attendees receive pre-course reading and course materials, an OCC telephone seminar CD, a community bank supervision handbook, other supervisory material, a continental breakfast, and lunch.

Workshops are limited to the first 35 registrants and are geared primarily to outside directors of national community banks with assets of less than $1 billion. Management directors may also find the workshops beneficial.
For information or to register online, visit http://www.occ.gov/conference.htm or call 336-451-0557.

###


Margo Schlanger's Testimony on Working with Communities to Disrupt Terror Plots
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 06:00:00 -0500
Testimony of Margo Schlanger, Officer for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, before the House Committee on Homeland Security, Subcommittee on Intelligence, Information Sharing, and Terrorism Risk Assessment, “Working with Communities to Disrupt Terror Plots” at the Cannon House Office Building on March 17, 2010.

FDA Issues Final Rule Restricting Access and Marketing of Cigarettes and Smokeless Tobacco Products to Youth

Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, HHS Assistant Secretary for Health Dr. Howard K. Koh, and U.S. Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Dr. Margaret Hamburg, will hold a press briefing to announce a final rule containing a broad set of federal requirements designed to both curb access to, as well as to reduce the appeal of, cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products to children and adolescents in the United States. The final rule will be published in the Federal Register on March 18, 2010, and will become effective on June 22, 2010.

WHO: Kathleen Sebelius, HHS Secretary
Howard K. Koh, M.D., M.P.H., HHS Assistant Secretary for Health
Margaret A. Hamburg, M.D., FDA Commissioner

WHEN: Thursday, March 18, 2010 at 1:30 PM EDT

WHERE: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
200 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20201
Credentialed media only


Hypocrisy: Watch What I Say, Not What I Do


“The rules of the House allow for this type of deeming provision.”
– Republican Whip Eric Cantor, ABC's "Good Morning America," 3/17/10

“Hypocrisy: A Parliamentary Procedure”



As Republicans ramp up efforts to once again distract from the substance of health insurance reform, experts weigh in on the hypocritical nature of the GOP’s “outrage” over procedural tactics they repeatedly used:
“Any veteran observer of Congress is used to the rampant hypocrisy over the use of parliamentary procedures that shifts totally from one side to the other as a majority moves to minority status, and vice versa. But I can’t recall a level of feigned indignation nearly as great as what we are seeing now from congressional Republicans and their acolytes at the Wall Street Journal, and on blogs, talk radio, and cable news. It reached a ridiculous level of misinformation and disinformation over the use of reconciliation, and now threatens to top that level over the projected use of a self-executing rule by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. In the last Congress that Republicans controlled, from 2005 to 2006, Rules Committee Chairman David Dreier used the self-executing rule more than 35 times, and was no stranger to the concept of ‘deem and pass.’ That strategy, then decried by the House Democrats who are now using it, and now being called unconstitutional by WSJ editorialists, was defended by House Republicans in court (and upheld). Dreier used it for a $40 billion deficit reduction package so that his fellow GOPers could avoid an embarrassing vote on immigration. I don’t like self-executing rules by either party—I prefer the ‘regular order’—so I am not going to say this is a great idea by the Democrats. But even so—is there no shame anymore?” [Norman J. Ornstein, 3/16/10]

“The speaker is considering the use of a self-executing rule to create for her Democratic members an opportunity to indicate that their support of the Senate-passed bill is coupled with the set of amendments to it that will be considered in a separate package under the reconciliation bill. Such a rule was used 36 times by the House Republican leadership in 2005-6 and 49 times by the Democratic leadership in 2007-8… It is a new twist (like the use of reconciliation to approve changes to the underlying bill negotiated by House and Senate leaders) to an old and perfectly legitimate parliamentary tool…” [Thomas E. Mann, Senior Fellow, Brookings Institution, 3/16/10]

“Republicans who now complain about tactics have very little to stand on given this history… This is a legitimate mechanism and Democrats have the right to use it. They also have precedent, including what Republicans did when they were in power, on their side…” [Julian E. Zelizer, Professor of History and Public Affairs, Princeton University, 3/16/10]

In 2006, the former Republican Rules Committee’s own staff director called-out Republicans’ record-breaking use of “self-executing rules”:
“When Republicans took power in 1995, they soon lost their aversion to self-executing rules and proceeded to set new records under Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.). There were 38 and 52 self-executing rules in the 104th and 105th Congresses (1995-1998), making up 25 percent and 35 percent of all rules, respectively. Under Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.) there were 40, 42 and 30 self-executing rules in the 106th, 107th and 108th Congresses (22 percent, 37 percent and 22 percent, respectively). Thus far in the 109th Congress, self-executing rules make up about 16 percent of all rules.” [Don Wolfensberger, former Republican staff director of the House Rules Committee, 6/19/06]


Internet Crime: Complaints on the Rise
With the release of IC3's 2009 annual report, it's clear that the need to be aware of cyber scams is more important than ever.

Hoyer Statement on Senate Passage of the HIRE Act

WASHINGTON, DC – House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today after the Senate passed the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act. This job creating legislation will now go to the President’s desk.

“I applaud the Senate’s passage of the HIRE Act, a much-needed piece of jobs legislation that now goes to President Obama’s desk for a signature. The HIRE Act includes tax credits for businesses that hire and retain unemployed workers—one of the most effective ways to promote job creation, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. It also includes tax incentives to help businesses finance their expansion, as well as an extension of the highway construction programs that have created jobs for so many Americans while expanding our infrastructure.

“Though passage of this bill is an important step for our constituents who remain out of work, it does not complete Congress’s job-creating efforts. Today, the House Ways and Means Committee is considering further legislation to encourage investment in growing small businesses by exempting their stock from capital gains taxes, to encourage entrepreneurship by doubling the tax deduction for small-business start-up costs, and to extend the successful Build America Bonds, which help state and local governments finance much-needed, job-creating projects. I look forward to bringing this legislation to the House floor as early as next week.”

###


U.S. Transportation Secretary LaHood Announces U.S.-Zambia Agreement on Open Skies

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood today announced that the United States and Zambia have signed an Open-Skies aviation agreement, liberalizing U.S.-Zambia air services for the carriers of both countries.

The agreement, the first aviation accord between the two countries, was reached after discussions between the U.S. Embassy in Lusaka and the Zambian government.
Zambia becomes the 96th U.S. Open-Skies partner and the 20th on the African continent. The agreement takes effect immediately.

“This agreement paves the way for future growth in travel and trade between the United States and Zambia,” Secretary LaHood said. “We welcome Zambia as an Open-Skies partner.”

Under the new agreement, airlines from both countries will be allowed to select routes and destinations based on consumer demand for both passenger and cargo services, without limitations on the number of U.S. or Zambian carriers that can fly between the two countries or the number of flights they can operate. It removes restrictions on capacity and pricing, and provides unlimited opportunities for cooperative marketing arrangements, including code-sharing, between U.S. and Zambian carriers.

The agreement also allows U.S. and Zambian carriers to operate all-cargo flights between the other country and third countries without a stop in their home countries.


Soyuz Landing Caps Milestone Space Station Mission
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 23:00:00 -0500
Expedition 22 Commander Jeff Williams and Flight Engineer Max Suraev landed their Soyuz TMA-16 spacecraft on the steppes of Kazakhstan Thursday, wrapping up a five-and-a-half-month stay aboard the International Space Station.

Guard Flood Duty
Thu, 18 Mar 2010 08:37:27 -0500
Hundreds of National Guard troops from North Dakota and Minnesota are deployed along the Red River to help fight the rising flood waters.

SEMINAR: How Different Jurisdictions Treat Foreign Law in their Jurisprudence

Tuesday, March 23
8:30 AM to 2:00 PM
Panel Presenters
Law Library of Congress
Stephen Clark- Senior Foreign Law Specialist, Canada
Ruth Levush- Senior Foreign Law Specialist, Israel
Edith Palmer- Senior Foreign Law Specialist, Germany

Lunch Speaker

Vicki C. Jackson

Carmack Waterhouse Professor of Constitutional Law
Georgetown University of Law

To register, visit http://www.llsdc.org/en/cev/233
For more information, send email to Leon Schioscia at the Law Library of Congress at lsci@loc.gov.


Expedition 22 Crew Lands
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 23:00:00 -0500
The Soyuz TMA-16 spacecraft is seen as it lands with Expedition 22 Commander Jeff Williams and Flight Engineer Maxim Suraev near the town of Arkalyk, Kazakhstan on Thursday, March 18, 2010. NASA Astronaut Jeff Williams and Russian Cosmonaut Maxim Suraev are returning from six months onboard the International Space Station where they served as members of the Expedition 21 and 22 crews. Image Credit: NASA/Bill Ingalls

Statement for National Poison Prevention Week
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:15:00 -0500
FDA Committed to Addressing Growing National Overdose Problem The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes the five-fold increase in unintentional drug overdose deaths noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention between 1990 and 2006 as a serious public health concern. Much of this increase follows from increases in the deaths from the use of opioid drugs, which in 2006 accounted for more overdose deaths than heroin and cocaine combined. The agency is also concerned about misuse of benzodiazepines (e.g., Valium and Xanax), which accounted for 272,000 emergency department visits in 2008 (compared to 306,000 for opioids).

More Bankruptcy Judgeships Approved by House
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 13:14:00 -0500
The House of Representatives passed a bill that, if passed in the Senate, will create 13 additional permanent bankruptcy judgeships, convert 22 existing temporary bankruptcy judgeships to permanent status, and extend two current temporary judgeships.

Experts Call Out GOP on Hypocrisy, GOP Owns Up To Legitimacy of Rule


Republicans Cry Crocodile Tears On Legislative Process to Distract From Unfair Insurance Process

With final passage of health insurance reform quickly approaching, Republicans are making another desperate attempt to distract from the substance of the health care debate. The GOP is hypocritically crying foul on a legislative process that they used more than 200 times under the last two Republican Speakers. Republicans clearly are trying to distract from the unfair insurance process that they support continuing:
• Process that allows insurance companies to cancel coverage when a person gets sick
• Process that allows insurance companies to filibuster consumers’ claims to fair coverage
• Process that makes Americans fight for their health insurance even as they are fighting for their lives.
If Republicans are so sensitive to fair process, they should oppose those unfair insurance procedures and support passage of health insurance reform. And if they don’t do that, then their record on using the same House rules to pass major legislation should be enough to end the legislative process debate.

Republicans Use Self-Executing Rules to Pass Major Legislation

When Republicans complain about process – whether on reconciliation or self-executing rules – they conveniently ignore their own record on using the same procedures to pass major legislation. In fact, according to Don Wolfensberger, former staff director under a Republican House Rules Committee, Republicans have used self-executing rules hundreds of times in recent history:
• 104th & 105th Congresses: Under Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-GA), Republicans used 90 self-executing rules.
• 106th, 107th & 108th Congresses: Under Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-IL), Republicans used 112 self-executing rules.
• 109th Congress: Under Speaker Hastert and Rules Committee Chairman David Dreier (R-CA), Republicans used self-executing rules more than 35 times. [Norm Ornstein, 3/16/10]

Republican, Experts Acknowledge Legitimacy of Rule

“[D]espite Republican claims that such parliamentary gymnastics as reconciliation and self-executing rules are somehow in violation of House rules or rare, neither is the case, says congressional scholar Thomas Mann of the Brookings Institution. ‘On the self-executing rule, Republicans in their last Congress that they controlled, the 109th, used it 36 times; the Democrats, in the next Congress they controlled, used it 49 times,’ Mann said. And in many cases, Mann says, they were on some pretty major bills. ‘The reauthorization of the Patriot Act, the Tax Relief Reconciliation Act, the Deficit Control Conference Report; all kinds of major measures have been approved through self-executing rules, which means the House votes indirectly rather than separately on these measures.’” [NPR, 3/17/10]

“The ‘deeming’ procedure that the Democrats may use was in fact routinely used by House Republicans to conduct business when they were in the majority…” [Timothy Stoltzfus Jost, Law Professor at the Washington and Lee University, 3/16/10]

“The rules of the House allow for this deeming provision. It's called a self-executing provision, which means that once the bill, the rule for the next bill passes, the Senate bill automatically is deemed as having passed.” – Republican Whip Eric Cantor, 3/17/10


Click here to view a printer-friendly PDF.

Click here to follow @LeaderHoyer on Twitter.

###


U.S. Joins Other Creditors, Cancels Afghanistan Debts Owed to Paris Club Members
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 06:00:00 -0500

The latest Consumer Price Index news release
(http://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cpi.pdf)
was issued today by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Highlights are below.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

On a seasonally adjusted basis, the CPI-U was unchanged in
February after increasing 0.2 percent in January. The index
for all items less food and energy rose 0.1 percent in
February after falling 0.1 percent in January.


Border Security
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 12:47:13 -0500
National Guard helicopters and crews are supporting aviation missions along the Rio Grande River following the recent rise in violence along the Texas-Mexico border.

ADA.gov Site Map (text only) for U.S. Department of Justice. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. A new issue of Enforcing the ADA: A Status Report from the Department of Justice has been posted, and direct access to the new Status Report is available at this link.

US-CERT Current Activity

Zeus Trojan Campaign Warning

Original release date: March 17, 2010 at 1:52 pm
Last revised: March 17, 2010 at 1:52 pm

 

US-CERT is aware of public reports of malicious code circulating via
spam email messages impersonating the Department of Homeland Security
(DHS). The attacks arrive via unsolicited email messages that may
contain subject lines related to DHS or other government activity.
These messages may contain a link or attachment. If users click on
this link or open the attachment, they may be infected with malicious
code, including the Zeus Trojan.

US-CERT encourages users and administrators to take the following
measures to protect themselves:
* Do not follow unsolicited web links or attachments in email
messages.
* Maintain up-to-date antivirus software.
* Refer to Cyber Security Tip ST04-014 - Avoiding Social Engineering
and Phishing Attacks
* Refer to the Recognizing and Avoiding Email Scams (pdf) document
for more information on avoiding email scams.

Relevant Url(s):
<http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/tips/ST04-014.html>

<http://www.us-cert.gov/reading_room/emailscams_0905.pdf>

====
This entry is available at
http://www.us-cert.gov/current/index.html#us_cert_warns_against_zeus


United States Breaks Ground on 100th Diplomatic Facility with the New Embassy Compound in Bujumbura, Burundi
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 13:44:59 -0500

Ambassador CdeBaca to Deliver Keynote Remarks at the Freedom Networks Eighth Annual Conference in Washington, DC
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 13:50:51 -0500

Friend --

I wanted to take a moment to thank you directly for the outstanding work you've been doing as part of Organizing for America's Final March for Reform. I can tell you that your voice is heard in Washington every day. I see how your efforts are moving us toward victory.

But I also know that with just days remaining, the final vote is shaping up to be extremely close. Everything we've worked for is on the line, and your voice is needed now more than ever before.

Raise your voice today: We must all speak out together to finish the job.

In these final, crucial days, much more will be asked of us. Our resolve will be tested.

During moments like this, I believe it's important to remember why we have worked so hard for so long. That's why I spoke to the country Monday at a gathering in Ohio and said it plainly: I'm here for Natoma.

Natoma Canfield is like most of us: She works hard, and tries to do what's right. Years ago, she had battled back from cancer, so she always maintained health insurance in case she ever really needed it again. But because of her medical history, the insurance company kept raising her deductible and her premiums.

Last year alone, Natoma paid over $10,000 in monthly premiums and co-pays, while her insurance company chipped in just $900. And then they hiked up her rates another 40%. She simply couldn't afford it -- she had to cancel her policy. That's when she wrote to me. I read her letter, and shared her story with insurance company CEOs as another reason why the system has to change.

That was two weeks ago. Then, just last week, the unthinkable happened: Natoma collapsed, and was rushed to a hospital. It's leukemia -- the cancer has returned. Now she's in the hospital, worried sick not just about her condition, but how she'll financially survive.

So why am I still in this fight? Simple. I'm here for Natoma.

I'm here because of the countless others who have been denied coverage because of pre-existing conditions. I'm here for the small business owners forced to chose between health care and hiring. I'm here for the folks who are forced to watch helplessly as their premiums skyrocket with no reason or recourse.

And I'm here for my mother. She died of cancer, and in the last six months of her life, I saw her on the phone in her hospital room arguing with insurance companies instead of focusing on getting well and spending time with her family.

As I was finishing my remarks Monday, a woman in the crowd called out, "we need courage." She's right.

The politicians in Washington need courage to face down the powerful interests who have held back progress for far too long. And all of us who share this cause need courage to speak up with persistence and clarity in these final days.

I've always found that courage comes from remembering that we fight for something and someone beyond ourselves. It comes from our faith. And it comes from our commitment to those we love.

So please take a moment to remember those who inspire you -- those who give you the strength to march on.

There's very little time left, and still much to do. But I believe to my core in the power of Americans to change history when we put our mind to it. And if you'll stay with us in these final days, I know we can do it again:

http://my.barackobama.com/speakout

Thank you for making it possible,

President Barack Obama


Hoyer Statement on Congressional Black Caucus Hearing on Unemployment

WASHINGTON, DC – House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today on the Congressional Black Caucus’s public hearing on chronic unemployment:

“Today, the Congressional Black Caucus held an important public hearing dedicated to chronic unemployment. This economic downturn has seen millions of Americans out of work—but, as the CBC reminds us, the roots of chronic unemployment in so many American communities go far deeper. They include, most glaringly of all, subpar education and the economic insecurity caused by our failing health care system.

“So I’m grateful that the CBC is considering a wide range of policy solutions to persistent inequality and joblessness, including youth summer jobs, vocational education, and job training programs. I believe that policies like those—combined with Congress’s recent efforts to strengthen job-creating infrastructure projects and encourage small businesses to grow and add new workers—will create significant new employment opportunities, both in the short and long term.”

###


U.S. and Plaintiff States v. Ticketmaster and Live Nation
Tue, 16 Mar 2010 14:14:25 -0500

DOD Identifies Army Casualty
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:15:00 -0500

FDA Approves First Totally Implanted Hearing System
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 13:23:00 -0500

National Guard (In Federal Status) And Reserve Activated as of March 16, 2010
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:12:00 -0500

U.S.-Japan Relations: Enduring Ties, Recent Developments
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 06:00:00 -0500

Under Secretary Maria Otero for Democracy and Global Affairs to Hold Water Policy Teleconference Press Call
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:28:09 -0500

The FBI Budget for Fiscal Year 2011
Robert S. Mueller, III, Director, FBI, Before the House Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies

USDA Retail Distribution List for Recall FSIS 017-2010

The latest Real Earnings news release
(http://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/realer.pdf)
was issued today by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Highlights are below.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Real average hourly earnings rose 0.1 percent from January to February, seasonally adjusted. This increase stems from a 0.1 percent increase in average hourly earnings for all employees while the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) remained unchanged. Real average weekly earnings fell 0.2 percent over the month.


Former Independence Police Chief Pleads Guilty to Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law

Social Media Sites Provide Morale Boost, Official Says
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:43:00 -0500

McChrystal Reports on Progress in Afghanistan
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:44:00 -0500

Announcement of Changes to PRM Funding Process for NGO Programs Targeting the Prevention of and Response to Gender-Based Violence (GBV), including Sexual Abuse and Exploitation (SEA)
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:46:03 -0500

Speeches: The United States and Turkey: A View from the Obama Administration
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:51:41 -0500

The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) announces the following:
You can now access the March 2010 Survey of Current Business at http://www.bea.gov/scb/index.htm.

March 18, 2010 - DHS Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report, (PDF, 26 pages - 192 KB)

The HUD HOME program's monthly reports as of 2/28/10 are now posted at http://www.hud.gov/offices/cpd/affordablehousing/reports/index.cfm

US CYBERCOM Stand up
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:15:38 -0500
Preparations for the establishment of U.S. Cyber Command are underway. The formal launch is currently awaiting approval from Congress.

C-SPAN Daily Alert
Programming Information for Weds. 3/17 - Thurs. 3/18, 2010
**********************************************************************

C-SPAN Highlights

Tonight:
* Pres. Obama Remarks on the Passage of the Jobs Bill (10pm)
* Rep. Kucinich (D-OH) News Conference on Health Care (10:02pm)
* Washington Journal: Peter Kiley, C-SPAN, Vice Pres. (10:30pm)

Tomorrow:
* U.S. House: In Session (10am) - LIVE
**********************************************************************
C-SPAN2 Highlights

Tonight:
* Radio and Television Correspondents' Dinner (8:50pm) - LIVE
* House Hearing with FBI Dir. Mueller on the FY 2011 Budget (9:35pm)
* Washington Journal: Peter Kiley, C-SPAN, Vice Pres. (12am)

Tomorrow:
* U.S. Senate: In Session (Time TBA) - LIVE
**********************************************************************
C-SPAN3 Highlights

Tonight:
* Pres. Obama on Jobs Bill; Hearing with Fed Chair Bernanke (7pm)
* Rep. Kucinich on Health Care; Hearing with Education Sec. Duncan (7:40pm)
* Hearing with FBI Dir. Mueller; Hearing on Iraq & Afghanistan (8:35pm)

Tomorrow:
* House Hearing on the U.S. Secret Service FY 2011 Budget (10am) - LIVE
* Senate Hearing on the U.S. Postal Service Financial Situation (2:30pm) - LIVE
**********************************************************************


NIH Clinical Center to Open State-of-the-Art Pharmaceutical Development Facility
Tue, 16 Mar 2010 11:06:00 -0500

Commanders Tout Value of Training Indigenous Forces
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:01:00 -0500

Statistics for the U.S. Department of Labor. This information has recently been updated.
The following statistics were updated:
Consumer Price Index (CPI)

View the latest DOL statistics.


Nuclear Review Nears Completion
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:13:00 -0500

Unemployment Insurance Weekly Claims Report for the U.S. Department of Labor. This information has recently been updated.
In the week ending March 13, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 457,000, a decrease of 5,000 from the previous week's unrevised figure of 462,000. The 4-week moving average was 471,250, a decrease of 4,250 from the previous week's unrevised average of 475,500.
Read the full news release.

Cross posted to the listservs LLSDC, Govdoc-L, Law-Lib, and FedLib:

The Law Librarians' Society of Washington, D.C., Inc. (LLSDC) is pleased to
announce the availability on its Legislative Source Book Website

(http://www.llsdc.org/sourcebook/) of a new title called "Sources for
Finding Mandated Reports to Congress by U.S. Federal Agencies
" (
http://www.llsdc.org/fed-agency-reports/). The site briefly describes and
links to sources that list or may make available reports from Federal
agencies mandated by Congressional statute. Other matters discussed include
where the text of report provisions can be found in the law, who receives
the reports, sunsetted report provisions that remain in the U.S. Code,
general reporting provisions applicable to most agencies, and other
matters.

As questions about locating these mandated reports have arisen recently on
various listservs, it is hoped that this site will be helpful in answering
future queries.

LLSDC's Legislative Source Book (http://www.llsdc.org/sourcebook/) has many
other helpful guides and listings. Of recent note is the expansion of the
site "Legislative Histories of Selected U.S. Laws on the Internet" (
http://www.llsdc.org/Leg-Hist/) so that the site had to be broken into four
related sites: 1) legislative histories on the free Internet, 2) commercial
legislative histories by popular name order, 3) commercial legislative
histories by public law number order, and 4) explanatory notes. Combined,
the sites list and directly link to more than 200 legislative histories.

Rick McKinney
Assistant Law Librarian
Federal Reserve Board Law Library
Washington, DC 20551
rick.mckinney@frb.gov


U.S., Finland Sign Agreement to Prevent and Combat Crime
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 06:00:00 -0500
Attorney General Eric Holder and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Deputy Secretary Jane Holl Lute joined Finnish Interior Minister Anne Holmlund to sign a Preventing and Combating Crime (PCC) Agreement—allowing for the enhanced exchange of biometric and biographic data to bolster counterterrorism and law enforcement efforts in both the United States and Finland while protecting individual privacy.

OCC Assesses Civil Money Penalty Against Wachovia
WASHINGTON — The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency announced today a $50 million Civil Money Penalty and a Cease and Desist Order against Wachovia Bank, N.A. for violations of the Bank Secrecy Act as part of a coordinated action with the Department of Justice, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Center and other federal agencies.
Wachovia also entered into a deferred prosecution agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of Florida and the Asset Forfeiture and Money Laundering Section of the Criminal Division of the Department of Justice and agreed to forfeit $110 million to the United States. The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network assessed a $110 million Civil Money Penalty that is deemed satisfied by the forfeiture to the U.S. government.
Related Links:
U.S. Department of Justice News Release (http://www.occ.gov/ftp/release/2010-30a.pdf)
Consent Cease and Desist Order (http://www.occ.gov/ftp/release/2010-30b.pdf)
Consent Order for a Civil Money Penalty (http://www.occ.gov/ftp/release/2010-30c.pdf)

Enforcement Actions for FinCEN Updates. This information has recently been updated, and is now available.

DoD Contracts for March 17, 2010
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 17:00:00 -0500

Upcoming Meetings and Recently Posted Materials web page for Advisory Committees of the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). This information has recently been updated, and is now available.

Health Care is a Civil Right

Click here to view video.


Each generation has had to take up the question of how to provide for the health of the people of our nation. And each generation has grappled with difficult questions of how to meet the needs of our people. I believe health care is a civil right. Each time as a nation we have reached to expand our basic rights, we have witnessed a slow and painful unfolding of a democratic pageant of striving, of resistance, of breakthroughs, of opposition, of unrelenting efforts and of eventual triumph.

I have spent my life struggling for the rights of working class people and for health care. I grew up understanding firsthand what it meant for families who did not get access to needed care. I lived in 21 different places by the time I was 17, including in a couple of cars. I understand the connection between poverty and poor health care, the deeper meaning of what Native Americans have called "hole in the body, hole in the spirit." I struggled with Crohn's disease much of my adult life, to discover sixteen years ago a near-cure in alternative medicine and following a plant-based diet. I have learned with difficulty the benefits of taking charge personally of my own health care. On those few occasions when I have needed it, I have had access to the best allopathic practitioners. As a result I have received the blessings of vitality and high energy. Health and health care is personal for each one of us. As a former surgical technician I know that there are many people who dedicate their lives to helping others improve theirs. I also know their struggles with an insufficient health care system.

There are some who believe that health care is a privilege based on ability to pay. This is the model President Obama is dealing with, attempting to open up health care to another 30 million people, within the context of the for-profit insurance system. There are others who believe that health care is a basic right and ought to be provided through a not-for-profit plan. This is what I have tirelessly advocated.

I have carried the banner of national health care in two presidential campaigns, in party platform meetings, and as co-author of HR676, Medicare for All. I have worked to expand the health care debate beyond the current for-profit system, to include a public option and an amendment to free the states to pursue single payer. The first version of the health care bill, while badly flawed, contained provisions which I believed made the bill worth supporting in committee. The provisions were taken out of the bill after it passed committee.

I joined with the Progressive Caucus saying that I would not support the bill unless it had a strong public option and unless it protected the right of people to pursue single payer at a state level. It did not. I kept my pledge and voted against the bill. I have continued to oppose it while trying to get the provisions back into the bill. Some have speculated I may be in a position of casting the deciding vote. The President's visit to my district on Monday underscored the urgency of this moment.

I have taken this fight farther than many in Congress cared to carry it because I know what my constituents experience on a daily basis. Come to my district in Cleveland and you will understand.

The people of Ohio's 10th district have been hard hit by an economy where wealth has accelerated upwards through plant closings, massive unemployment, small business failings, lack of access to credit, foreclosures and the high cost of health care and limited access to care. I take my responsibilities to the people of my district personally. The focus of my district office is constituent service, which more often than not involves social work to help people survive economic perils. It also involves intervening with insurance companies.

In the past week it has become clear that the vote on the final health care bill will be very close. I take this vote with the utmost seriousness. I am quite aware of the historic fight that has lasted the better part of the last century to bring America in line with other modern democracies in providing single payer health care. I have seen the political pressure and the financial pressure being asserted to prevent a minimal recognition of this right, even within the context of a system dominated by private insurance companies.

I know I have to make a decision, not on the bill as I would like to see it, but the bill as it is. My criticisms of the legislation have been well reported. I do not retract them. I incorporate them in this statement. They still stand as legitimate and cautionary. I still have doubts about the bill. I do not think it is a first step toward anything I have supported in the past. This is not the bill I wanted to support, even as I continue efforts until the last minute to modify the bill.

However after careful discussions with the President Obama, Speaker Pelosi, Elizabeth my wife and close friends, I have decided to cast a vote in favor of the legislation. If my vote is to be counted, let it now count for passage of the bill, hopefully in the direction of comprehensive health care reform. We must include coverage for those excluded from this bill. We must free the states. We must have control over private insurance companies and the cost their very existence imposes on American families. We must strive to provide a significant place for alternative and complementary medicine, religious health science practice, and the personal responsibility aspects of health care which include diet, nutrition, and exercise.

The health care debate has been severely hampered by fear, myths, and by hyper-partisanship. The President clearly does not advocate socialism or a government takeover of health care. The fear that this legislation has engendered has deep roots, not in foreign ideology but in a lack of confidence, a timidity, mistrust and fear which post 911 America has been unable to shake.

This fear has so infected our politics, our economics and our international relations that as a nation we are losing sight of the expanded vision, the electrifying potential we caught a glimpse of with the election of Barack Obama. The transformational potential of his presidency, and of ourselves, can still be courageously summoned in ways that will reconnect America to our hopes for expanded opportunities for jobs, housing, education, peace, and yes, health care.

I want to thank those who have supported me personally and politically as I have struggled with this decision. I ask for your continued support in our ongoing efforts to bring about meaningful change. As this bill passes I will renew my efforts to help those state organizations which are aimed at stirring a single payer movement which eliminates the predatory role of private insurers who make money not providing health care. I have taken a detour through supporting this bill, but I know the destination I will continue to lead, for as long as it takes, whatever it takes to an America where health care will be firmly established as a civil right.

Thank you.

Dennis Kucinich


Transcom Provides Key Advantage, Commander Says
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 17:15:00 -0500

NATO Seeks More Trainers for Afghan Forces
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:55:00 -0500

Export Requirements for Meat & Poultry Products for USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service. The export requirements for Egypt and Chile have been revised. This information has recently been updated.
You may view a copy of the updated information.

Has the GOP Thrown the Kitchen Sink at Health Reform Yet? They’ve Tried Everything Else…

As we head into the final stretch on health reform, what else will the Republicans come up with to try and deceive the public, try to derail reform, and protect the insurance companies and the status quo? Does the health reform bill cede Texas to Mexico? Use tax dollars to cover care for French poodles?

• August 2009 – Former Vice Presidential Nominee Sarah Palin makes a ludicrous claim that the reform bills include “death panels.” Many in the GOP help spread the outrageous fabrication, including Sen. Grassley (R-IA), a leading GOP negotiator on health reform, who says government may “pull the plug on grandma.”


• September 2009 – GOP repeatedly claims the health reform bills will provide health care for illegal immigrants, despite all experts repeatedly debunking the claim. Rep. Wilson (R-SC) shouts at President Obama on the House floor during an address to Congress, calling the President a liar on the issue.


• Fall 2009 – GOP repeatedly calls health reform efforts socialism, saying they will lead to an economic disaster and will end to America as we know it.


• Fall 2009 – GOP repeatedly claims that the Democratic health reform bills are unconstitutional, despite an overwhelming consensus of legal experts repeatedly debunking the claim.


• Fall 2009 – GOP repeatedly claims that the health reform bills add to deficit, despite CBO - the official referee of Congress - confirming they reduce the deficit.


• February 2010 – GOP is outraged about the use of reconciliation in the Senate, even though it was used many more times in the past by them.


• March 2010 – GOP is outraged about the use of a floor procedure that they used hundreds of times in the past.

###


U.S. International Reserve Position

More Dwell Time Coming in 2011, Army Vice Chief Says
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 17:49:00 -0500

CBP Summer 2009 Issue - Interactive Version
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:09:32 -0500

CBP Current Issue - Interactive Version
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:09:32 -0500

Kepler: One Year Anniversary
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 11:00:00 -0500

U.S. Department of State Daily Press Briefing - March 17
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 17:27:49 -0500

Officials implement second DOS rollback

Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs Office

RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas – Air Force officials announced today the need for a Phase II enlisted date of separation rollback with a mandatory DOS of June 30, 2010. This program is part of an overall effort by the Air Force to maintain a quality enlisted force and meet the congressionally mandated end strength.

In November, officials announced plans to conduct a DOS rollback for enlisted members with fewer than 14 or more than 20 years of service as of April 30. The second rollback will also accelerate the date of separation for Airmen based on their years of service and re-enlistment eligibility or assignment availability codes.

Under the second DOS rollback, Airmen must separate no later than June 30 or retire no later than July 1 if they possess a code preventing their re-enlistment. Officials said that the June 30 DOS rollback differs from the April 30 rollback by allowing commanders to conduct early consideration under the Selective Re-enlistment Program for Airmen who possess select re-enlistment codes.

Airmen separated or retired under the DOS Rollback are authorized transition assistance benefits that include 180 days of extended medical care for themselves and their families and an ID card permitting base commissary and exchange privileges for two years.

Those separated with more than six years but less than 20 years total active service are eligible for one-half the amount of separation pay but must sign an Individual Ready Reserve agreement to serve for a minimum three years. Those declining to serve in the IRR will be ineligible for separation pay.

The Air Force will not recoup unearned portions of education assistance funds special pay, bonuses or other monetary incentives under the DOS Rollback Program. Additionally, most Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits will not be impacted; however, the transferability of benefits to dependents may be affected. Airmen should consult their local education centers or the VA concerning transferability.

Airmen with more than 20 years of service who are affected by the DOS rollback must request a retirement date via the virtual Military Personnel Flight.

For more information visit the Air Force Personnel Center personnel services Web site and enter “DOS rollback” in the search engine or call the Total Force Service Center at (210) 525-0102 or DSN 665-5000.

-- 30 --


Louisiana Woman Guilty of Forging Seal of Department or Agency of the U.S.
Tue, 16 Mar 2010 14:38:49 -0500
Stephanie O. Langlois, of Metairie, Louisiana, pled guilty to forging and counterfeiting the Office of Management and Budget seal and then printing the seal on documents purporting to be grant award letters for the purpose of misleading clients into thinking that they had been awarded grant money that would assist them in rebuilding their businesses which sustained damage in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

Hospital Purchasing Official Pleads Guilty in New York to Bid Rigging and Fraud
Tue, 16 Mar 2010 14:35:13 -0500
Salvatore Scotto-DiVetta, a former New York Presbyterian Hospital purchasing official, pled guilty in Manhattan to conspiring to rig bids on re-insulation services contracts.

Nexus Technologies, Three Employees Guilty of Bribing Vietnamese Officials
Tue, 16 Mar 2010 14:24:54 -0500
Nexus Technologies Inc., a Philadelphia-based export company, pled guilty in connection with a conspiracy to bribe officials of the Vietnamese government in exchange for lucrative contracts to supply equipment and technology to Vietnamese government agencies, in violation of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. The president and owner of the company, Nam Nguyen, and his siblings and fellow Nexus personnel, Kim Nguyen and An Nguyen, also pled guilty in connection with the conspiracy.

Maryland Men Indicted on Charges Related to Operation of Bail Bonds Company
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 13:59:34 -0500
Milton Tillman, Jr. and his son, Milton Tillman, III, both of Baltimore, Maryland, were indicted for conspiracy to defraud the Treasury Department, making false statements on tax returns, and unlawfully engaging in the business of insurance. Milton Tillman, Jr. is also charged with wire fraud in connection with a scheme to defraud Ports America Baltimore, Inc., where he worked as a member of the International Longshoremen's Association AFL-CIO.

Pharmaceutical Company to Pay $42.5 Million to Settle False Claims Act Charges
Tue, 16 Mar 2010 13:54:28 -0500
American pharmaceutical manufacturer Alpharma Inc. has agreed to pay $42.5 million to resolve False Claims Act allegations in connection with the marketing of the morphine-based drug Kadian.

Highlights: U.S.-Pakistan Will Hold Strategic Dialogue
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:00:00 -0500

Secretary Clinton Leads Cabinet-Level Delegation to Mexico
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:13:41 -0500

Today in the Department of Defense, 3/18/2010
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 19:20:00 -0500

DOD News Briefing with Gen. McChrystal and Ambassador Sedwill from Afghanistan
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 19:45:00 -0500

MOMENTUM GROWS FOR HEALTH CARE REFORM

Democrats from across the spectrum are announcing their support for passing health care reform…

Oberstar Latest to Lend Support For Health Bill
“Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman James Oberstar (D-Minn.), one of the staunchest anti-abortion-rights Democrats in the House, said Wednesday he will now back the health care overhaul” – saying the bill “prohibits the use of federal funds for abortion.”

Kucinich Is Now a Yes on Health Care Reform
“Rep. Dennis Kucinich (D-Ohio), the outspoken House liberal who opposed passage of health care reform last year, announced Wednesday morning that he will support an overhaul the chamber is expected to vote on later this week.”

…As support across the country grows

NBC News/WSJ poll [3/16/10]:
• A majority – 46% - 45% support the President’s plan and want to see it passed
Economist poll [3/11/10]:
• 53% - 47% favor the current proposal

###


DOT Secretary's Blog - Welcome to the Fast Lane for Department of Transportation. This information has recently been updated; you can read more at fastlane.dot.gov

HOUSE FLOOR WRAP-UP FOR MARCH 17, 2010

Bills Adopted Under Suspension of the Rules (11):

1) H.Res. 1089 - Recognizing the 150th anniversary of Augustana College (Rep. Hare - Education and Labor)
2) H.Res. 1167 - Expressing the support of the House of Representatives for the goals and ideals of Professional Social Work Month and World Social Work Day (Rep. Shea-Porter - Education and Labor)
3) H.Res. 1184 - Congratulating the 2009-2010 University of Maryland Men's Basketball Team on an outstanding season (Rep. Hoyer - Education and Labor)
4) H.Res. 1141 - Honoring the accomplishments of Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, the first woman to serve on the United States Supreme Court (Rep. Giffords - Judiciary)
5) S. 1147 - A bill to prevent tobacco smuggling, to ensure the collection of all tobacco taxes (Sen. Kohl - Judiciary)
6) H.R. 946 - Plain Language Act of 2009 (Rep. Braley - Oversight and Government Reform)
7) H.R. 1387 - Electronic Message Preservation Act (Rep. Hodes - Oversight and Government Reform)
8) H.R. 4825 - To require any amounts remaining in a Member's Representational Allowance at the end of a fiscal year to be deposited in the Treasury and used for deficit reduction or to reduce the Federal debt (Reps. Kirkpatrick/Peters - House Administration)
9) H.R. 3954 - Florida National Forest Land Adjustment Act of 2009 (Rep. Boyd - Agriculture)
10) H.R. 4851 - Continuing Extension Act of 2010 (Rep. Levin – Ways and Means)
11) H.R. 4853 - Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 2010 (Rep. Oberstar – Transportation and Infrastructure)

Postponed Suspension Votes (3):

1) H.R. 4214 - To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 45300 Portola Avenue in Palm Desert, California, as the "Roy Wilson Post Office" (Rep. Bono Mack - Oversight and Government Reform)
2) H.R. 3542 - State Admission Day Recognition Act of 2009 (Rep. Lungren - House Administration)
3) H.R. 3509 - Agricultural Credit Act of 2009 (Rep. Peterson - Agriculture)


FLOOR SCHEDULE FOR THURSDAY, MARCH 18, 2010
House Meets At… First Vote Predicted… Last Vote Predicted…

10:00 a.m.: Legislative Business 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.

“One Minutes” (10 per side)

H.Res. 1190 - Providing for consideration of motions to suspend the Rules (Rep. Slaughter – Rules)

Suspensions (7 Bills)
1) H.R. 3671 - Upper Mississippi River Basin Protection Act (Rep. Kind - Natural Resources)
2) H.R. 4252 - Inland Empire Perchlorate Ground Water Plume Assessment Act of 2009 (Rep. Baca - Natural Resources)
3) H.R. 4003 - Hudson River Valley Special Resource Study Act (Rep. Hinchey - Natural Resources)
4) H.Res. 1173 - Recognizing the 100th anniversary of the Vermont Long Trail, the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the United States, and congratulating the Green Mountain Club for its century of dedication in developing and maintaining the trail (Rep. Welch - Natural Resources)
5) H.R. 2788 - Distinguished Flying Cross National Memorial Act (Rep. Calvert - Natural Resources)
6) H.R. 1769 - Alpine Lakes Wilderness Additions and Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers Protection Act (Rep. Reichert - Natural Resources)
7) H.R. 4395 - To revise the boundaries of the Gettysburg National Military Park to include the Gettysburg Train Station (Rep. Platts - Natural Resources)

Dispose of H.Res. __ - Raising a question of privileges of the House (Rep. Flake – Privileged Resolution)

Postponed Suspension Votes (3 Bills):
1) H.R. 4214 - To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 45300 Portola Avenue in Palm Desert, California, as the "Roy Wilson Post Office" (Rep. Bono Mack - Oversight and Government Reform)
2) H.R. 3542 - State Admission Day Recognition Act of 2009 (Rep. Lungren - House Administration)
3) H.R. 3509 - Agricultural Credit Act of 2009 (Rep. Peterson - Agriculture)

* Conference Reports may be brought up at any time.
* Motions to go to Conference should they become available.
* Possible Motions to Instruct Conferees.


Young Democrats of Georgia Stonewall Caucus.

Edmund Thornton III March 17, 2010 at 4:06pm
Subject: Healthcare reform and reasons for its necessity.
Dear Young Democrats of Georgia Stonewall Caucus,

Today, I'm going a little left-of-center (okay a lot left), and laying out, in no uncertain terms, why the healthcare reform bill is so absolutely vital to the forward progress of the United States of America. I will admit that this is the construction of my personal opinions and be recognized as such. There are no nice or redeeming messages for the Republican Party. This is not my standard "sunshine and butterflies" message.

This reform is vital and I felt a strongly, if not verbose, response was in order. Thank you for your time and your continued support of the Young Democrats of Georgia Stonewall Caucus.

Edmund Thornton III
Chair, YDG Stonewall Caucus

________________________________________________________

Friends, Members of the Stonewall Caucus and Concerned Citizens,

I’m writing today because, throughout the entire healthcare reform battle that has been waged, I have been largely silent. Today, the final straw hit and I felt the need to come out and give my two cents on the matter. This is purely my opinion, but I am officially at the point where I can no longer remain silent on the matter.

To discuss how we got to this point, I think that there has been so much mud-racking throughout this entire process; Democrats inability to maintain spotlight on message and equal inability to respond rapidly and properly to the lies and shadow campaigns of the Republican party, and their contributing lobbyist groups, that the whole issue has been covered, mixed and blended to a point where most people have no idea what is going on anymore.

I have to give it to the GOP, Big Healthcare, the US Chamber of Commerce and all of their extremely well paid lobbyist cohorts. They did an excellent job convincing people that, "Grandma is going to be killed by a 'Death Panel' consisting of 'Government bureaucrats'". The truth being that the true 'Death Panels' consist of medical adjusters that work for insurance companies, denying claims for treatments that very well would save lives.

The very same goes for "pre-existing conditions". That full load of bull-hockey is ridiculous, unethical and downright immoral. To tell someone that they can't have a liver transplant because they forgot to disclose that they had been treated for acne ten years ago (yes, there are cases of this happening) are beyond out of this world. People need treatment and to discriminate against a disturbingly valid need for help is just... I don't have the words.

I myself have recently been struggling, fighting tooth-and-nail to try to get health insurance. I have waged battles before, but this was the scale of which I could have never imagined. I first tried to get standard ‘off the shelf’ insurance. Thankfully, I thought to call the company before I signed the dotted line and handed off the debit card number.
___________________________________________________

To read the remainder of this message, please copy and paste this link in your browser.

http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=2383415489&topic=13696


Petraeus on Afghanistan
Wed, 17 Mar 2010 17:42:53 -0500
General David Petraeus says the U.S. and its NATO allies should expect a tough year ahead in Afghanistan.

Medicare.gov- Supplier Directory for Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This information has recently been updated, and is now available.

Medicare.gov- Hospital Compare for Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This information has recently been updated, and is now available.

Medicare.gov- Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Finder for Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This information has recently been updated, and is now available.

Medicare.gov- Medicare Options Compare for Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This information has recently been updated, and is now available.

Pennsylvania Young Democrats.

David SlavickMarch 17, 2010 at 7:04pm
Subject: PAYD On CNN's AC360 This Friday!
Dear Members,

As you may have heard we proudly announced that the PAYD Event this past Friday at Finnigin's Wake was to be featured on CNN's AC360 this evening at 10:00 PM.

The segment has been postponed until Friday at 10:00. Be sure to watch. To find out more about CNN's AC360 got to http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/

Please spread the word this is great publicity for the great work you all make possible with your time and efforts. Thanks again for being a member, we appreciate all you do.

Sincerely,

David Slavick
Web Director
PA Young Democrats

PS Though Earth Day is almost a month away, it's never too early to think about what you can do to make your self heard.
Our friends Earth Day Action have something for you to do to show your support for all the issues we care about. The following message is from Jessica Garson Mid-Atlantic Director at Earth Day Action:

Heard: Give Voice to Climate Reform!
Make the 40th Anniversary a turning point in the environmental movement. Tell Washington it's time to stop protecting polluters, and enact comprehensive climate and clean energy legislation that will create jobs, reduce carbon emissions, and sec...ure America's future.

Join Earth Day Network on the National Mall on April 25 to call on Congress to pass climate legislation in 2010!

Contact: Jessica Garson, Mid Atlantic Organizer, (301) 704 1328

Earth Day http://action.earthday.org/

Thank you,
Jessica Garson
(301) 704- 1328


GOV JOB VACANCIES, GRANTS and GOV CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES have been posted at www.usdemocrats.com/ticker/jobs/

Press Releases from the U.S. Fire Administration. This information has recently been updated and is now available.




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