California Eye » John Ensign

Watch Jon Ralston on MSNBC’s The Last Word

Featheriver — Sat, 14 May 2011 15:07:42 +0000

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Jon Ralston on MSNBC’s The Last Word re John Ensign

Ensign Investigation referred to Attorney-General

Featheriver — Fri, 13 May 2011 06:36:56 +0000

Former Senator John Ensign and Cindy Hampton

Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington released documents of the comprehensive in-depth investigation by the United States Senate Select Committee on Ethics of former Republican Senator John Ensign today. The release includes:

· Special Counsel’s Report of the Preliminary Inquiry;

· Referral Letter to the Department of Justice and

· Referral Letter to the Federal Election Committee.

The Report of the Preliminary Inquiry

Summary of the Special Counsel’s findings:

· There Is Substantial Credible Evidence That Senator Ensign Conspired to Violate and Aided and Abetted Mr. Hampton’s Violations of The Post Employment Contract Bam. 18 U.S.C. §207.

· There Is Substantial Credible Evidence That Senator Ensign and His Parents Made False or Misleading Statements to the Federal Election Commission Regarding the $96,000 Payment to the Hamptons.

· There Is Substantial Credible Evidence That a Portion of the $96,000 Payment Constituted an Unlawful and Unreported Campaign Contribution and Violated Federal Law and a Senate Rule Prohibiting Unofficial Office Accounts.

· There Is Substantial Credible Evidence That Senator Ensign Permitted Spoliation of Documents and Engaged in Potential Obstruction of Justice Violations

· There Is Substantial Credible Evidence That Senator Ensign Discriminated on the Basis of Sex and Engaged in Improper Conduct Reflecting Upon the Senate by Terminating the Hamptons’ Employment Because of the Affair

· There Is Substantial Credible Evidence That Senator Ensign Violated His Own Senate Office Policies

The report has been referred to the Federal Election Committee and United States Attorney-General for possible prosecution.

Nevada Congressional Delegation Votes

Featheriver — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 19:29:58 +0000

April 18, 2011

In this MegaVote for Nevada’s 1st Congressional District:

Recent Congressional Votes

Senate: Fiscal 2011 Health Care Overhaul Funding
Senate: Fiscal 2011 Planned Parenthood Funding
Senate: Fiscal 2011 Spending Agreement
House: To repeal the Prevention and Public Health Fund
House: Fiscal 2011 Spending Agreement
House: Fiscal 2011 Health Care Overhaul Funding
House: Fiscal 2011 Planned Parenthood Funding
House: Fiscal 2012 House Budget Resolution

Editor’s Note: Both the Senate and House are in recess until Monday, May 2, 2011.

Recent Senate Votes

Fiscal 2011 Health Care Overhaul Funding – Vote Rejected (47-53)

The Senate rejected this enrollment correction resolution that would have blocked funding for the implementation of the health care law in the 2011 fiscal year spending bill. The House adopted the resolution. Both chambers had to pass the resolution for it to be included in the final spending bill.

Sen. John Ensign voted YES……send e-mail or see bio
Sen. Harry Reid voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

Fiscal 2011 Planned Parenthood Funding - Vote Rejected (42-58)

The Senate rejected this enrollment correction resolution that would have blocked funding for Planned Parenthood in the 2011 fiscal year spending bill. The House adopted the resolution. Both chambers had to pass the resolution for it to be included in the final spending bill.

Sen. John Ensign voted YES……send e-mail or see bio
Sen. Harry Reid voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

Fiscal 2011 Spending Agreement – Vote Passed (81-19)

The Senate gave final approval to this bill funding the government through the end of the current fiscal year. Based on the agreement negotiated to prevent a government shutdown, the bill provides $1.055 trillion in federal spending. The president signed the bill into law on Friday, April 15.

Sen. John Ensign voted NO……send e-mail or see bio
Sen. Harry Reid voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Recent House Votes

To repeal the Prevention and Public Health Fund – Vote Passed (236-183, 13 Not Voting)

This House bill would eliminate funding for the Prevention and Public Health Fund, which was established by the health care law. Supporters of the bill say there is no accountability to determine where the money is spent. Opponents of the bill say it would defund important prevention programs. The Senate is unlikely to take up the measure.

Rep. Shelley Berkley voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

Fiscal 2011 Spending Agreement – Vote Passed (260-167, 6 Not Voting)

The House passed this bill to fund the government through the end of the current fiscal year. Based on the agreement negotiated to prevent a government shutdown, the bill provides $1.055 trillion in federal spending. The Senate passed the bill later in the day, clearing it for the president.

Rep. Shelley Berkley voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Fiscal 2011 Health Care Overhaul Funding – Vote Passed (240-185, 7 Not Voting)

Following passage of the 2011 spending bill, the House adopted this enrollment correction resolution that would have blocked funding for the implementation of the health care law. The Senate rejected the resolution so it will not be part of the final spending bill.

Rep. Shelley Berkley voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

Fiscal 2011 Planned Parenthood Funding – Vote Passed (241-185, 1 Present, 5 Not Voting)

Following passage of the 2011 spending bill, the House adopted this enrollment correction resolution that would have blocked funding for Planned Parenthood. The Senate rejected the resolution so it will not be part of the final spending bill.

Rep. Shelley Berkley voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

Fiscal 2012 House Budget Resolution – Vote Passed (235-193, 4 Not Voting)

The House passed a budget resolution that calls for $1.019 trillion in discretionary spending in the 2012 fiscal year. The budget resolution would allow for $2.859 trillion in overall spending. The resolution is non-binding but is used as a guideline for appropriators. The Senate is expected to work on its budget after the recess.

Rep. Shelley Berkley voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

April 18, 2011

In this MegaVote for Nevada’s 2nd Congressional District:

Recent Congressional Votes

Senate: Fiscal 2011 Health Care Overhaul Funding
Senate: Fiscal 2011 Planned Parenthood Funding
Senate: Fiscal 2011 Spending Agreement
House: To repeal the Prevention and Public Health Fund
House: Fiscal 2011 Spending Agreement
House: Fiscal 2011 Health Care Overhaul Funding
House: Fiscal 2011 Planned Parenthood Funding
House: Fiscal 2012 House Budget Resolution

Editor’s Note: Both the Senate and House are in recess until Monday, May 2, 2011.

Recent Senate Votes

Recent House Votes

To repeal the Prevention and Public Health Fund – Vote Passed (236-183, 13 Not Voting)

This House bill would eliminate funding for the Prevention and Public Health Fund, which was established by the health care law. Supporters of the bill say there is no accountability to determine where the money is spent. Opponents of the bill say it would defund important prevention programs. The Senate is unlikely to take up the measure.

Rep. Dean Heller voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Fiscal 2011 Spending Agreement – Vote Passed (260-167, 6 Not Voting)

The House passed this bill to fund the government through the end of the current fiscal year. Based on the agreement negotiated to prevent a government shutdown, the bill provides $1.055 trillion in federal spending. The Senate passed the bill later in the day, clearing it for the president.

Rep. Dean Heller voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

Fiscal 2011 Health Care Overhaul Funding – Vote Passed (240-185, 7 Not Voting)

Following passage of the 2011 spending bill, the House adopted this enrollment correction resolution that would have blocked funding for the implementation of the health care law. The Senate rejected the resolution so it will not be part of the final spending bill.

Rep. Dean Heller voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Fiscal 2011 Planned Parenthood Funding – Vote Passed (241-185, 1 Present, 5 Not Voting)

Following passage of the 2011 spending bill, the House adopted this enrollment correction resolution that would have blocked funding for Planned Parenthood. The Senate rejected the resolution so it will not be part of the final spending bill.

Rep. Dean Heller voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Fiscal 2012 House Budget Resolution – Vote Passed (235-193, 4 Not Voting)

The House passed a budget resolution that calls for $1.019 trillion in discretionary spending in the 2012 fiscal year. The budget resolution would allow for $2.859 trillion in overall spending. The resolution is non-binding but is used as a guideline for appropriators. The Senate is expected to work on its budget after the recess.

Rep. Dean Heller voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

April 18, 2011 In this MegaVote for Nevada’s 3rd Congressional District: Recent Congressional Votes Senate: Fiscal 2011 Health Care Overhaul Funding Senate: Fiscal 2011 Planned Parenthood Funding Senate: Fiscal 2011 Spending Agreement House: To repeal the Prevention and Public Health Fund House: Fiscal 2011 Spending Agreement House: Fiscal 2011 Health Care Overhaul Funding House: Fiscal 2011 Planned Parenthood Funding House: Fiscal 2012 House Budget Resolution Editor’s Note: Both the Senate and House are in recess until Monday, May 2, 2011.
Recent Senate Votes
Fiscal 2011 Health Care Overhaul Funding – Vote Rejected (47-53) The Senate rejected this enrollment correction resolution that would have blocked funding for the implementation of the health care law in the 2011 fiscal year spending bill. The House adopted the resolution. Both chambers had to pass the resolution for it to be included in the final spending bill. Sen. John Ensign voted YES……send e-mail or see bio Sen. Harry Reid voted NO……send e-mail or see bio Fiscal 2011 Planned Parenthood Funding - Vote Rejected (42-58) The Senate rejected this enrollment correction resolution that would have blocked funding for Planned Parenthood in the 2011 fiscal year spending bill. The House adopted the resolution. Both chambers had to pass the resolution for it to be included in the final spending bill. Sen. John Ensign voted YES……send e-mail or see bio Sen. Harry Reid voted NO……send e-mail or see bio Fiscal 2011 Spending Agreement – Vote Passed (81-19) The Senate gave final approval to this bill funding the government through the end of the current fiscal year. Based on the agreement negotiated to prevent a government shutdown, the bill provides $1.055 trillion in federal spending. The president signed the bill into law on Friday, April 15. Sen. John Ensign voted NO……send e-mail or see bio Sen. Harry Reid voted YES……send e-mail or see bio
Recent House Votes
To repeal the Prevention and Public Health Fund – Vote Passed (236-183, 13 Not Voting) This House bill would eliminate funding for the Prevention and Public Health Fund, which was established by the health care law. Supporters of the bill say there is no accountability to determine where the money is spent. Opponents of the bill say it would defund important prevention programs. The Senate is unlikely to take up the measure. Rep. Joe Heck voted YES……send e-mail or see bio Fiscal 2011 Spending Agreement – Vote Passed (260-167, 6 Not Voting) The House passed this bill to fund the government through the end of the current fiscal year. Based on the agreement negotiated to prevent a government shutdown, the bill provides $1.055 trillion in federal spending. The Senate passed the bill later in the day, clearing it for the president. Rep. Joe Heck voted YES……send e-mail or see bio Fiscal 2011 Health Care Overhaul Funding – Vote Passed (240-185, 7 Not Voting) Following passage of the 2011 spending bill, the House adopted this enrollment correction resolution that would have blocked funding for the implementation of the health care law. The Senate rejected the resolution so it will not be part of the final spending bill. Rep. Joe Heck voted YES……send e-mail or see bio Fiscal 2011 Planned Parenthood Funding – Vote Passed (241-185, 1 Present, 5 Not Voting) Following passage of the 2011 spending bill, the House adopted this enrollment correction resolution that would have blocked funding for Planned Parenthood. The Senate rejected the resolution so it will not be part of the final spending bill. Rep. Joe Heck voted YES……send e-mail or see bio Fiscal 2012 House Budget Resolution – Vote Passed (235-193, 4 Not Voting) The House passed a budget resolution that calls for $1.019 trillion in discretionary spending in the 2012 fiscal year. The budget resolution would allow for $2.859 trillion in overall spending. The resolution is non-binding but is used as a guideline for appropriators. The Senate is expected to work on its budget after the recess. Rep. Joe Heck voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Nevada Congressional Delegation Vote

Featheriver — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 21:31:25 +0000

April 11, 2011 In this MegaVote for Nevada’s 1st Congressional District: Recent Congressional Votes Senate: Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act of 2011 Senate: To ban EPA regulation of greenhouse gas emissions House: Energy Tax Prevention Act of 2011 House: Net Neutrality Disapproval House: Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Amendments, 2011 Upcoming Congressional Bills Senate: FY2011 appropriations House: FY2012 budget resolution
Recent Senate Votes
Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act of 2011 – Vote Passed (87-12, 1 Not Voting) The Senate gave final approval to this bill repealing a provision of the 2010 health care bill requiring businesses to report payments to vendors over $600 to the Internal Revenue Service. The House passed the bill last month. The president is expected to sign it into law. Sen. John Ensign voted YES……send e-mail or see bio Sen. Harry Reid voted NO……send e-mail or see bio To ban EPA regulation of greenhouse gas emissions – Vote Rejected (50-50) During work on the small business bill, the Senate fell short of the 60 votes required to pass this amendment that would prevent the Environmental Protection Agency from regulating greenhouse gases for the purpose of addressing climate change. The House passed a stand-alone bill later in the week, but its future is unclear at this time. Sen. John Ensign voted YES……send e-mail or see bio Sen. Harry Reid voted NO……send e-mail or see bio
Recent House Votes
Energy Tax Prevention Act of 2011 – Vote Passed (255-172, 5 Not Voting) The House passed this bill that would prevent the Environmental Protection Agency from regulating greenhouse gases for the purpose of addressing climate change. A similar measure failed in the Senate earlier in the week. Rep. Shelley Berkley voted NO……send e-mail or see bio Net Neutrality Disapproval – Vote Passed (240-179, 13 Not Voting) This resolution would nullify a Federal Communications Commission rule prohibiting broadband Internet service providers from blocking content or traffic. Supporters of the resolution say the FCC does not have the authority to regulate the Internet, while opponents contend the regulations are necessary to provide unfettered access to the Internet. A companion resolution has been introduced in the Senate but its future is unclear. Rep. Shelley Berkley voted Not Voting……send e-mail or see bio Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Amendments, 2011 – Vote Passed (348-70, 14 Not Voting) The House passed this one-week appropriations measure, giving negotiators time to draft the full-year appropriations measure. The Senate passed the bill by unanimous consent earlier on Friday night. The president signed the measure into law on Saturday. Rep. Shelley Berkley voted Not Voting……send e-mail or see bio
Upcoming Votes
FY2011 appropriations – Work could begin Tuesday on the 2011 fiscal year appropriations bill resulting from the deal negotiators struck late last week. FY2012 budget resolution – The House is scheduled to vote on a non-binding resolution that sets spending levels for the 2012 federal budget.

Nevada Congressional Delegation Votes

Featheriver — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 22:30:38 +0000

March 21, 2011 In this MegaVote for Nevada’s 1st Congressional District: Recent Congressional Votes Senate: Additional Continuing Appropriations, 2011 House: Additional Continuing Appropriations, 2011 House: NSP Termination Act House: NPR Federal Funding Ban House: Afghanistan Withdrawal resolution Editor’s Note: The Senate is in recess until Monday, March 28, 2011. The House is in recess until Tuesday, March 29, 2011.
Recent Senate Votes
Additional Continuing Appropriations, 2011 – Vote Agreed to (87-13) The Senate gave final approval to the latest short-term continuing resolution, which funds government operations through April 8, 2011. The president signed it into law the next day. Sen. John Ensign voted NO……send e-mail or see bio Sen. Harry Reid voted YES……send e-mail or see bio
Recent House Votes
Additional Continuing Appropriations, 2011 – Vote Passed (271-158, 3 Not Voting) The House passed this short-term continuing resolution funding government operations through April 8, 2011. The measure cuts $6 billion from the current budget. The Senate passed the resolution later in the week. Rep. Shelley Berkley voted YES……send e-mail or see bio NSP Termination Act – Vote Passed (242-182, 8 Not Voting) The House voted to rescind $1 billion in unspent funds designated for the Neighborhood Stabilization Program, which provides grants to state and local governments to purchase abandoned or foreclosed houses. The Senate is unlikely to take action on the bill. Rep. Shelley Berkley voted NO……send e-mail or see bio NPR Federal Funding Ban – Vote Passed (228-192, 1 Present, 11 Not Voting) The House passed this bill that would prohibit public radio stations from using federal funds to purchase programming content from NPR. The bill is unlikely to see action in the Senate. Rep. Shelley Berkley voted NO……send e-mail or see bio Afghanistan Withdrawal resolution – Vote Failed (93-321, 1 Present, 17 Not Voting) The House defeated this resolution calling for the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan no later than the end of 2011. Significant troop level reductions are not scheduled until 2014. Rep. Shelley Berkley voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

March 21, 2011 In this MegaVote for Nevada’s 2nd Congressional District: Recent Congressional Votes Senate: Additional Continuing Appropriations, 2011 House: Additional Continuing Appropriations, 2011 House: NSP Termination Act House: NPR Federal Funding Ban House: Afghanistan Withdrawal resolution Editor’s Note: The Senate is in recess until Monday, March 28, 2011. The House is in recess until Tuesday, March 29, 2011.
Recent Senate Votes
Additional Continuing Appropriations, 2011 – Vote Agreed to (87-13) The Senate gave final approval to the latest short-term continuing resolution, which funds government operations through April 8, 2011. The president signed it into law the next day. Sen. John Ensign voted NO……send e-mail or see bio Sen. Harry Reid voted YES……send e-mail or see bio
Recent House Votes
Additional Continuing Appropriations, 2011 – Vote Passed (271-158, 3 Not Voting) The House passed this short-term continuing resolution funding government operations through April 8, 2011. The measure cuts $6 billion from the current budget. The Senate passed the resolution later in the week. Rep. Dean Heller voted NO……send e-mail or see bio NSP Termination Act – Vote Passed (242-182, 8 Not Voting) The House voted to rescind $1 billion in unspent funds designated for the Neighborhood Stabilization Program, which provides grants to state and local governments to purchase abandoned or foreclosed houses. The Senate is unlikely to take action on the bill. Rep. Dean Heller voted YES……send e-mail or see bio NPR Federal Funding Ban – Vote Passed (228-192, 1 Present, 11 Not Voting) The House passed this bill that would prohibit public radio stations from using federal funds to purchase programming content from NPR. The bill is unlikely to see action in the Senate. Rep. Dean Heller voted YES……send e-mail or see bio Afghanistan Withdrawal resolution – Vote Failed (93-321, 1 Present, 17 Not Voting) The House defeated this resolution calling for the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan no later than the end of 2011. Significant troop level reductions are not scheduled until 2014. Rep. Dean Heller voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

March 21, 2011 In this MegaVote for Nevada’s 3rd Congressional District: Recent Congressional Votes Senate: Additional Continuing Appropriations, 2011 House: Additional Continuing Appropriations, 2011 House: NSP Termination Act House: NPR Federal Funding Ban House: Afghanistan Withdrawal resolution Editor’s Note: The Senate is in recess until Monday, March 28, 2011. The House is in recess until Tuesday, March 29, 2011.
Recent Senate Votes
Additional Continuing Appropriations, 2011 – Vote Agreed to (87-13) The Senate gave final approval to the latest short-term continuing resolution, which funds government operations through April 8, 2011. The president signed it into law the next day. Sen. John Ensign voted NO……send e-mail or see bio Sen. Harry Reid voted YES……send e-mail or see bio
Recent House Votes
Additional Continuing Appropriations, 2011 – Vote Passed (271-158, 3 Not Voting) The House passed this short-term continuing resolution funding government operations through April 8, 2011. The measure cuts $6 billion from the current budget. The Senate passed the resolution later in the week. Rep. Joe Heck voted YES……send e-mail or see bio NSP Termination Act – Vote Passed (242-182, 8 Not Voting) The House voted to rescind $1 billion in unspent funds designated for the Neighborhood Stabilization Program, which provides grants to state and local governments to purchase abandoned or foreclosed houses. The Senate is unlikely to take action on the bill. Rep. Joe Heck voted YES……send e-mail or see bio NPR Federal Funding Ban – Vote Passed (228-192, 1 Present, 11 Not Voting) The House passed this bill that would prohibit public radio stations from using federal funds to purchase programming content from NPR. The bill is unlikely to see action in the Senate. Rep. Joe Heck voted YES……send e-mail or see bio Afghanistan Withdrawal resolution – Vote Failed (93-321, 1 Present, 17 Not Voting) The House defeated this resolution calling for the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan no later than the end of 2011. Significant troop level reductions are not scheduled until 2014. Rep. Joe Heck voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

Nevada Congressional Delegation Votes

Featheriver — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 20:40:03 +0000

March 14, 2011

In this MegaVote for Nevada’s 1st Congressional District:

Recent Congressional Votes

Senate: Patent Reform Act of 2011
Senate: Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011
Senate: Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011
House: FHA Refinance Program Termination Act
House: Emergency Mortgage Relief Program Termination Act

Editor’s Note: Want to keep up with the news about your state’s lawmakers? Check out our new Facebook pages tracking your members of Congress. http://roll.cl/ifpJYe

Recent Senate Votes

Patent Reform Act of 2011 – Vote Passed (95-5)

The Senate passed this bill that would overhaul the nation’s patent system and change the way they are issued and challenged. The House is expected to pass its own patent bill.

Sen. John Ensign voted NO……send e-mail or see bio
Sen. Harry Reid voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011 – Vote Rejected (44-56)

The Senate rejected this House-passed continuing resolution that would have reduced spending by $57.5 billion over the remainder of the 2011 fiscal year. The current, short-term continuing resolution expires on March 18, 2011.

Sen. John Ensign voted YES……send e-mail or see bio
Sen. Harry Reid voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011 – Vote Rejected (42-58)

The Senate also rejected a Democratic alternative to the full-year continuing resolution that would have reduced spending by $4.7 billion over the remainder of the 2011 fiscal year.

Sen. John Ensign voted NO……send e-mail or see bio
Sen. Harry Reid voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Recent House Votes

FHA Refinance Program Termination Act – Vote Passed (256-171, 5 Not Voting)

This bill would end a Federal Housing Administration program that helps homeowners who owe more than their homes are worth refinance their mortgages. The bill is unlikely to see action in the Senate.

Rep. Shelley Berkley voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

Emergency Mortgage Relief Program Termination Act – Vote Passed (242-177, 13 Not Voting)

This House bill would terminate the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Emergency Homeowner Loan Program and redirect the unused funds to paying down the national debt. The program provides emergency loans to unemployed homeowners in certain states. The bill is unlikely to see action in the Senate.

Rep. Shelley Berkley voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

March 14, 2011

In this MegaVote for Nevada’s 2nd Congressional District:

Recent Congressional Votes

Senate: Patent Reform Act of 2011
Senate: Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011
Senate: Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011
House: FHA Refinance Program Termination Act
House: Emergency Mortgage Relief Program Termination Act

Editor’s Note: Want to keep up with the news about your state’s lawmakers? Check out our new Facebook pages tracking your members of Congress. http://roll.cl/ifpJYe

Recent Senate Votes

Recent House Votes

FHA Refinance Program Termination Act – Vote Passed (256-171, 5 Not Voting)

This bill would end a Federal Housing Administration program that helps homeowners who owe more than their homes are worth refinance their mortgages. The bill is unlikely to see action in the Senate.

Rep. Dean Heller voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Emergency Mortgage Relief Program Termination Act – Vote Passed (242-177, 13 Not Voting)

This House bill would terminate the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Emergency Homeowner Loan Program and redirect the unused funds to paying down the national debt. The program provides emergency loans to unemployed homeowners in certain states. The bill is unlikely to see action in the Senate.

Rep. Dean Heller voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

March 14, 2011

In this MegaVote for Nevada’s 3rd Congressional District:

Recent Congressional Votes

Senate: Patent Reform Act of 2011
Senate: Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011
Senate: Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011
House: FHA Refinance Program Termination Act
House: Emergency Mortgage Relief Program Termination Act

Editor’s Note: Want to keep up with the news about your state’s lawmakers? Check out our new Facebook pages tracking your members of Congress. http://roll.cl/ifpJYe

Recent Senate Votes

Recent House Votes

FHA Refinance Program Termination Act – Vote Passed (256-171, 5 Not Voting)

This bill would end a Federal Housing Administration program that helps homeowners who owe more than their homes are worth refinance their mortgages. The bill is unlikely to see action in the Senate.

Rep. Joe Heck voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

Emergency Mortgage Relief Program Termination Act – Vote Passed (242-177, 13 Not Voting)

This House bill would terminate the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Emergency Homeowner Loan Program and redirect the unused funds to paying down the national debt. The program provides emergency loans to unemployed homeowners in certain states. The bill is unlikely to see action in the Senate.

Rep. Joe Heck voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Nevada Congressional Votes

Featheriver — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 02:14:56 +0000

Recent Senate Votes
Short-term Continuing Resolution – Vote Agreed to (91-9) The Senate gave final approval to this continuing resolution funding government operations through March 18, 2011. Passage of the CR gives lawmakers time to work out a long-term solution to the 2011 fiscal year budget. The president signed it into law later that day. Sen. John Ensign voted YES……send e-mail or see bio Sen. Harry Reid voted YES……send e-mail or see bio
Recent House Votes
Short-term Continuing Resolution – Vote Passed (335-91, 6 Not Voting) The House passed this continuing resolution funding government operations through March 18, 2011. Passage of the CR gives lawmakers time to work out a long-term solution to the 2011 fiscal year budget. The president signed it into law the next day. Rep. Shelley Berkley voted YES……send e-mail or see bio Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act of 2011 – Vote Passed (314-112, 6 Not Voting) The House voted to repeal a provision of the 2010 health care bill requiring businesses to report payments to vendors over $600 to the Internal Revenue Service. There is support in the Senate for repeal, but the two chambers disagree on how to offset the cost of repeal. Rep. Shelley Berkley voted YES……send e-mail or see bio
Upcoming Votes
Patent Reform Act of 2011 – S.23 The Senate is scheduled to work on this bill that would overhaul the nation’s patent laws. FHA Refinance Program Termination Act – H.R.830 The House is scheduled to take up this bill that would end a Federal Housing Administration program intended to aid homeowners who owe more than their homes are worth. Emergency Mortgage Relief Program Termination Act – H.R.836 The House is also expected to take up this bill that would end a Department of Housing and Urban Development program that provides loans to unemployed homeowners facing foreclosure.

Recent House Votes

Continuing Resolution, FY2011 – Vote Passed (235-189, 9 Not Voting)

The House passed this long-term CR that would fund government operations through September 30, 2011, the end of the current fiscal year. The bill includes $61.5 billion in spending cuts. The current funding expires on March 4, 2011. The bill now goes to the Senate.

Rep. Shelley Berkley voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

FISA Sunsets Extension Act of 2011 – Vote Passed (279-143, 11 Not Voting)

The House gave final approval to this bill extending some expiring provisions of the Patriot Act for 90 days. The original House bill would have extended the provisions to December 8, 2011, but the Senate approved the short-term bill on February 15. Both chambers are working on long-term bills. The president is expected to sign the bill into law.

Rep. Shelley Berkley voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Recent Senate Votes

FISA Sunsets Extension Act of 2011 – Vote Passed (86-12, 2 Not Voting)

The Senate passed this bill extending some expiring provisions of the Patriot Act for 90 days. The extension allows both chambers more time to work on long-term bills. The House cleared the measure for the president two days later.

Sen. John Ensign voted YES……send e-mail or see bio
Sen. Harry Reid voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

FAA Air Transportation Modernization and Safety Improvement Act – Vote Passed (87-8, 5 Not Voting)

This $34.6 billion bill reauthorizes the Federal Aviation Administration for two years and sets aviation policies. The House is working on its own version of the bill that would cover four years.

Sen. John Ensign voted YES……send e-mail or see bio
Sen. Harry Reid voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Recent House Votes

Continuing Resolution, FY2011 – Vote Passed (235-189, 9 Not Voting)

The House passed this long-term CR that would fund government operations through September 30, 2011, the end of the current fiscal year. The bill includes $61.5 billion in spending cuts. The current funding expires on March 4, 2011. The bill now goes to the Senate.

Rep. Dean Heller voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

FISA Sunsets Extension Act of 2011 – Vote Passed (279-143, 11 Not Voting)

The House gave final approval to this bill extending some expiring provisions of the Patriot Act for 90 days. The original House bill would have extended the provisions to December 8, 2011, but the Senate approved the short-term bill on February 15. Both chambers are working on long-term bills. The president is expected to sign the bill into law.

Rep. Dean Heller voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

Recent Senate Votes

Recent House Votes

Continuing Resolution, FY2011 – Vote Passed (235-189, 9 Not Voting)

The House passed this long-term CR that would fund government operations through September 30, 2011, the end of the current fiscal year. The bill includes $61.5 billion in spending cuts. The current funding expires on March 4, 2011. The bill now goes to the Senate.

Rep. Joe Heck voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

FISA Sunsets Extension Act of 2011 – Vote Passed (279-143, 11 Not Voting)

The House gave final approval to this bill extending some expiring provisions of the Patriot Act for 90 days. The original House bill would have extended the provisions to December 8, 2011, but the Senate approved the short-term bill on February 15. Both chambers are working on long-term bills. The president is expected to sign the bill into law.

Rep. Joe Heck voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Recent Senate Votes

Short-term Continuing Resolution – Vote Agreed to (91-9)

The Senate gave final approval to this continuing resolution funding government operations through March 18, 2011. Passage of the CR gives lawmakers time to work out a long-term solution to the 2011 fiscal year budget. The president signed it into law later that day.

Sen. John Ensign voted YES……send e-mail or see bio
Sen. Harry Reid voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Recent House Votes

Short-term Continuing Resolution – Vote Passed (335-91, 6 Not Voting)

The House passed this continuing resolution funding government operations through March 18, 2011. Passage of the CR gives lawmakers time to work out a long-term solution to the 2011 fiscal year budget. The president signed it into law the next day.

Rep. Shelley Berkley voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act of 2011 – Vote Passed (314-112, 6 Not Voting)

The House voted to repeal a provision of the 2010 health care bill requiring businesses to report payments to vendors over $600 to the Internal Revenue Service. There is support in the Senate for repeal, but the two chambers disagree on how to offset the cost of repeal.

Rep. Shelley Berkley voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Upcoming Votes

Patent Reform Act of 2011 – S.23

The Senate is scheduled to work on this bill that would overhaul the nation’s patent laws.

FHA Refinance Program Termination Act – H.R.830

The House is scheduled to take up this bill that would end a Federal Housing Administration program intended to aid homeowners who owe more than their homes are worth.

Emergency Mortgage Relief Program Termination Act – H.R.836

The House is also expected to take up this bill that would end a Department of Housing and Urban Development program that provides loans to unemployed homeowners facing foreclosure.

Recent Senate Votes

Recent House Votes

Short-term Continuing Resolution – Vote Passed (335-91, 6 Not Voting)

The House passed this continuing resolution funding government operations through March 18, 2011. Passage of the CR gives lawmakers time to work out a long-term solution to the 2011 fiscal year budget. The president signed it into law the next day.

Rep. Joe Heck voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act of 2011 – Vote Passed (314-112, 6 Not Voting)

The House voted to repeal a provision of the 2010 health care bill requiring businesses to report payments to vendors over $600 to the Internal Revenue Service. There is support in the Senate for repeal, but the two chambers disagree on how to offset the cost of repeal.

Rep. Joe Heck voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Upcoming Votes

Patent Reform Act of 2011 – S.23

The Senate is scheduled to work on this bill that would overhaul the nation’s patent laws.

Nevada Congressional Votes

Featheriver — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 18:21:03 +0000

February 7, 2011

In this MegaVote for Nevada’s 1st Congressional District:

Recent Congressional Votes

Senate: Health Care Repeal

Upcoming Congressional Bills

Senate: FAA Reauthorization
House: Regulation Review

Recent Senate Votes

Health Care Repeal – Vote Rejected (47-51, 2 Not Voting)

During the debate over the Federal Aviation Administration bill, the Senate rejected this amendment that would have repealed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The text was similar to the bill the House passed on January 19, 2011.

Sen. John Ensign voted YES……send e-mail or see bio
Sen. Harry Reid voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

Upcoming Votes

FAA Reauthorization – S.223

The Senate is scheduled to continue work on this bill reauthorizing the Federal Aviation Administration.

Regulation Review –

The House is scheduled to take up a resolution directing committees to review the impact of federal regulations on the economy.

February 7, 2011 In this MegaVote for Nevada’s 2nd Congressional District: Recent Congressional Votes Senate: Health Care Repeal Upcoming Congressional Bills Senate: FAA Reauthorization House: Regulation Review
Recent Senate Votes
Health Care Repeal – Vote Rejected (47-51, 2 Not Voting) During the debate over the Federal Aviation Administration bill, the Senate rejected this amendment that would have repealed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The text was similar to the bill the House passed on January 19, 2011. Sen. John Ensign voted YES……send e-mail or see bio Sen. Harry Reid voted NO……send e-mail or see bio
Upcoming Votes
FAA Reauthorization – S.223 The Senate is scheduled to continue work on this bill reauthorizing the Federal Aviation Administration. Regulation Review – The House is scheduled to take up a resolution directing committees to review the impact of federal regulations on the economy.

February 7, 2011

In this MegaVote for Nevada’s 3rd Congressional District:

Recent Congressional Votes

Senate: Health Care Repeal

Upcoming Congressional Bills

Senate: FAA Reauthorization
House: Regulation Review

Recent Senate Votes

Upcoming Votes

FAA Reauthorization – S.223

The Senate is scheduled to continue work on this bill reauthorizing the Federal Aviation Administration.

Regulation Review –

The House is scheduled to take up a resolution directing committees to review the impact of federal regulations on the economy.

Senator Ensign’s Burden

Featheriver — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 21:27:57 +0000

As I write this an infrequent snow is covering Pahrump with a layer of gleaming white freshness. It is beautiful outside. With a fresh cup of hot coffee I open a newspaper to read. A front-page article in the Las Vegas Sun jerked me back to the sad reality of the world we live in. The article is headlined “Citizen of Nowhere.” The sub-headline reads “Jessica speaks English, was raised in America, has an American education and American sensibilities. But she is not an American. She is here illegally.”

Jessica was brought into the United States at age 4 by her parents who came from Mexico on a work visa and stayed. She has no memory of Mexico. Like many parents they enrolled her in school. She grew up speaking English. She is American, culturally, mentally and educationally. She has a younger brother born here in the United States. He is an American citizen by birth. She is an undocumented immigrant.

Jessica won an essay competition while in the third grade, attending an award ceremony at UNLV’s Artemus Ham Hall. She was selected as the “Student of the Year” in the eighth grade at age 13. Her school wanted to reward her by paying half the cost of a class trip to Washington, D.C. along with 50 other students. She aspired to be a student at UNLV.

Her parents would not let her go for fear her status as an undocumented immigrant might be discovered. She discovered the stigma of being ostracized.

It is claimed that there are from 57,000 to 68,000 undocumented immigrants graduate from high school each year. “Many immigrant parents push their children to excel academically, believing the American dream is achieved through education.” There are 300,000 students enrolled in the Clark County School District. Almost 42 percent are Hispanic. How many of that percentage are undocumented immigrants is unknown, reported the Sun.

But graduation from high school presents a barrier to many undocumented immigrant children. They want to go on to college, but are blocked because they have no Social Security Number, thus no financial aid. Some colleges require social security numbers to attend and report those who don’t have one to immigration authorities.

What is the incentive in trying to excel if it just leads to a dead end? Jessica said, “I don’t belong anywhere. I don’t have anywhere to go.”

Jessica is one of those undocumented minors that would have been included in the DREAM Act. The Act passed the House of Representatives on December 8, but it failed to pass a procedural vote in the Senate. Both Democrats and Republicans are included in the vote. The Act is stalled.

“The Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act would have allowed young people brought to the U.S. illegally before they were 16 years old and who have lived here for five years a path to citizenship. Included in that was a 10-year period as a permanent resident alien and at least two years of college or military service before they could apply and be granted citizenship,” wrote Kendall P. Stanley, a retired editor for the Petoskey News-Review.

Nevada Republican Senator John Ensign was one of those votes that voted No on limiting debate and moving forward with the DREAM Act. Senator Reid voted Yes.

To me it is a sad commentary on people that obstruct such congressional bills. Those undocumented immigrant kids that could achieve higher goals in their lives, to the enrichment of America, are innocent of any guilt of their parents. Why should they be punished for the sins of their parents? I hardly think that being an innocent undocumented immigrant is a sin.

Senator Ensign is likely to face an insurmountable wall in his quest for re-election. He can expect, and should, energetic opposition from the Hispanic community in Nevada. And he should.

Nevada Congressional Delegation votes

Featheriver — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 18:07:22 +0000

Recent Senate Votes

Confirmation of Jane Branstetter Stranch, of Tennessee, to be US Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit – Vote Confirmed (71-21, 8 Not Voting)

The Senate voted to confirm the nomination of Jane Branstetter Stranch, a Nashville attorney, to the federal bench.

Sen. John Ensign voted NO……send e-mail or see bio
Sen. Harry Reid voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Small Business Jobs and Credit Act of 2010 – Vote Passed (61-38, 1 Not Voting)

The Senate passed a bill that would provide for a variety of small-business tax provisions, including a revival of an expired bonus depreciation provision to allow companies to write off assets more quickly. The bill now returns to the House, which is expected to agree to Senate amendments and clear the bill for the President’s signature.

Sen. John Ensign voted NO……send e-mail or see bio
Sen. Harry Reid voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Recent House Votes

Rural Energy Savings Program Act – Vote Passed (240-172, 20 Not Voting)

The House passed a bill that would authorize $5 billion over five years to create two energy efficiency loan programs. The bill now goes to the Senate.

Rep. Shelley Berkley voted YES……send e-mail or see bio

Recent House Votes

Rural Energy Savings Program Act – Vote Passed (240-172, 20 Not Voting)

The House passed a bill that would authorize $5 billion over five years to create two energy efficiency loan programs. The bill now goes to the Senate.

Rep. Dean Heller voted NO……send e-mail or see bio

Recent House Votes

Rural Energy Savings Program Act – Vote Passed (240-172, 20 Not Voting)

The House passed a bill that would authorize $5 billion over five years to create two energy efficiency loan programs. The bill now goes to the Senate.

Rep. Dina Titus voted YES……send e-mail or see bio