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Motions To Recommit - 112th Congress

What is a Motion to Recommit with Instructions?

The motion to recommit with instructions provides one final chance to amend a bill before it is passed by the full House of Representatives. The Rules of the 112th Congress provide for a motion to recommit with instructions “forthwith,” meaning the House must immediately vote on the bill, as amended, if the motion to recommit is adopted. 

Does a Motion to Recommit with Instructions Kill the Bill? 

The answer is no.  Under Republican control in the 112th Congress, the Rules of the House were adopted on January 5, 2011 by a vote of 238-191 (Roll Call #6, First Session). Those Rules state that a motion to recommit with instructions is NOT sent back to committee.  If the recommit is adopted, the bill is voted on by the full House immediately. 

In the official Rules of the House of Representatives in the 112th Congress, Rule XIX 2(b)(2) states: “A motion to recommit a bill or joint resolution may include instructions only in the form of a direction to report an amendment or amendments back to the House forthwith.”

In the House Rules and Manual, the Parliamentarians, who are the official referees of all legislative activity on the House floor, state clearly on page 806: “If the House adopts a motion to recommit with instructions that the committee report ‘forthwith,’ the chair reports at once without awaiting action by the committee, the bill is before the House for immediate consideration …”

The official ruling of the Chair, under a Republican Speaker pro temp, confirmed this interpretation on four separate occasions which can be viewed in the links below:

May 18, 2012, Speaker pro temp Judy Biggert (R-IL)

May 16, 2012, Speaker pro temp Jo Ann Emerson (R-MO)

May 10, 2012, Speaker pro temp Allen West (R-FL)

May 10, 2012, Speaker pro temp Steve Womack (R-AR)

Bill Date Motion to Recommit (MTR) Text Vote (Y-N)
H.R. 3409 9/21/12 The Motion to Recommit adds findings to the bill stating that the national program to improve vehicle fuel efficiency will provide major economic and consumer benefits. The Republican bill repeals fuel efficiency standards that will save American consumers an estimated $8,000 in fuel costs by 2025 over the lifetime of a vehicle. If these fuel standards remain in place, the net consumer savings will be the equivalent of lowering the price of gasoline by $1 per gallon for model year 2025 vehicles. The Motion to Recommit prohibits the nullification of current fuel efficiency standards if it would result in: 1) consumers paying more for gasoline over the life of their motor vehicles; or 2) the loss of jobs in the United States automobile manufacturing industrial sector or a negative impact on the overall United States economy. .pdf» 173-233
H.R. 6213 9/14/12 The Motion to Recommit would add a section to the bill relating to Buy America provisions.  The new section prohibits the Secretary of Energy from issuing loan guarantees for an energy project unless the applicant certifies to the Secretary that at least 75% of the materials and components used for construction, manufacturing, or operations of the project are to be produced in the United States.  The Motion would also make the underlying bill’s prohibition against awarding new loan guarantees contingent on the extension of the Wind Energy Production Tax Credit. .pdf» 175-234
H.J. Res. 117 9/13/12 The Motion to Recommit would add a provision to the bill that extends the funding for Military, Reserve, and National Guard personnel for the full fiscal year. The underlying bill would provide only 6 months of short-term funding for the federal government, setting up another showdown on spending that could lead to a government shutdown in March 2013. Our troops shouldn’t have to worry about whether they are going to be able to pay their bills six months from now or if the Republicans threaten another government shutdown.  That’s why Democrats’ final amendment to the Continuing Resolution extends military pay for a full year rather than just six months.  It also honors our responsibility to care for our veterans by authorizing disability examinations and treatment for homeless and mentally ill veterans, critical provisions that are set to expire but were left out of the Republican bill. .pdf» 189-232
H.R. 6365 9/13/12 The Motion to Recommit would eliminate sequestration entirely, provided that subsequent deficit reduction is enacted that equals or exceeds sequestration's deficit reduction over 10 years.  The Motion would also provide that such subsequent deficit reduction legislation be balanced by requiring upper income taxpayers pay their fair share by instituting the Buffett Rule so that millionaires don’t pay less taxes than their secretaries. The Motion also protects middle class tax cuts and includes targeted spending cuts. .pdf» 170-247
H.R. 5544 9/12/12 The Motion to Recommit would add a new provision to the bill prohibiting the Secretary of the Interior from exchanging land in Minnesota that, as of the date of the enactment of this Act, is used for hunting, fishing, or motorized recreation, including snowmobiling in season. .pdf» 183-233
H.R. 6233 8/2/12 The Motion to Recommit would express the sense of the House that a five-year Farm Bill would provide greater certainty and stability for America’s farm families than extending farm policy for only one year or authorizing short-term disaster assistance. The Motion would also prohibit foreign corporations from receiving disaster assistance. Lastly, the Motion would require the Secretary of Agriculture to prevent duplicative payments for assistance. .pdf» 189-232
H.R. 6169 8/2/12 The Motion to Recommit would prohibit a tax reform measure considered under the expedited procedures provided by this bill from reducing, repealing, or otherwise eliminating deductions for mortgage interest or charitable contributions. While Republicans are determined to give more tax breaks to the richest 2% - tax breaks they don't need and our country can't afford - Democrats are protecting tax cuts for our middle class. .pdf» 188-235
H.R. 8 8/1/12 The Motion to Recommit would amend the underlying Republican 1 year extension, allowing the tax cuts to expire for income over $1 million. It would use that money for small business expensing and the rest for deficit reduction, for a total of $29 billion over 10 years. .pdf» 181-246
H.R. 4078 7/26/12 No Member of Congress wants to limit the abilities of entrepreneurs, workers, and small business owners to succeed, prosper, and thrive. We must enact measures that strengthen the middle class, encourage fairness for the American people, enhance the health and safety of our communities, and protects responsible homeowners. The Motion to Recommit applies smart steps to bolster our economy and protect our families by ensuring nothing in today’s legislation limits our ability to: require the disclosure of offshore bank accounts; implement tax cuts for the middle class; protect against Asian Carp and invasive species; ensure the safety of prescription drugs; provide foreclosure relief and curb the predatory practices of subprime lenders. .pdf» 181-234
H.R.6082 7/25/12 The Motion to Recommit would prohibit the issuance of leases to any entity that is in violation of the Iran Sanctions Act; the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability and Divestment Act; or the Syria Accountability and Lebanese Sovereignty Restoration Act. Iran and Syria face strong sanctions that have been passed by Congress; violating these sanctions would strengthen the regimes and undermine America’s national security.  .pdf» 179-240
H.R. 4402 7/12/12 The Motion to Recommit would prohibit the issuance of permits for mining to persons, corporations or their subsidiaries that have failed to pay any state or federal taxes. The Motion would also add provisions to Federal mining permits prohibiting the export of strategic and critical minerals to China and Iran. Lastly, it would require, to the extent practicable, that all mining equipment used under mining permits be made in America and prohibit the holder of the permit from outsourcing American jobs. .pdf» 188-231
H.R. 6079 7/11/12 The Motion to Recommit would add a provision to the end of the bill, which states that any Member who votes for repeal of the Affordable Care Act will be ineligible to participate in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program, effective beginning the first month following enactment of the Act. We should all have to live under the same rules. That’s why Democrats’ Motion to Recommit means that Members who vote to take away health protections for the American people will also have to forfeit their own taxpayer-subsidized FEHBP benefits.  .pdf» 180-248
H.R. 5972 6/29/12 The tragedy of homelessness among our veterans is a challenge to our conscience as a nation, and we must ensure that none of our service members go without support and assistance upon returning from the battlefield. The Motion to Recommit would increase funding for veteran rental voucher assistance by $75 million and reduce HUD Management and Administration and Program Office Salaries & Expenses accounts by $86,100,000. The Motion would also reduce the deficit by $11,100,000. .pdf» 188-233
H.R. 2578 6/19/12 Members of Congress have a responsibility to work to protect all Americans from harm, preserve the basic rights of every community, and support American-made products to strengthen our economy. The Motion to Recommit amends the bill to add a new section that would reduce the risk of wildfires by allowing the Secretaries of Agriculture and Interior to enter into contracts with a state to treat insect-infected trees and remove hazardous fuels. The Motion would also prohibit any provision in the underlying bill from violating Native American Tribal sovereignty. Lastly, it would require the Secretary of the Interior to ensure that all items offered for sale in National Parks gift shops or visitor centers be made in America. .pdf» 188-234
H.R. 5882 6/8/12 Reducing our deficits must start with the actions of Members of Congress. The Motion to Recommit would cut by 10 percent the official franked mail component of the Member's Representational Allowance (MRA). As the people’s elected representatives, Members of Congress have an obligation to communicate with their constituents. But that should not be an excuse to campaign for their own re-election at taxpayer expense. .pdf» 101-309
H.R. 5855 6/7/12 The Motion to Recommit would increase funding for the National Protection and Programs Directorate for infrastructure protection and information security programs and activities by $16,663,000 and decrease the Transportation Security Administration’s administrative account by the same amount. The Motion would also increase funding for FEMA Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) grants by $340,300,000 and decrease general funding for the FEMA State and Local grant program by the same amount. In an age of ever-changing threats – to our public and private cyber networks, to our neighborhoods and urban centers – we must invest in new tactics and resources to strengthen our nation’s defense. .pdf»
H.R. 436 6/7/12 The Motion to Recommit would prohibit manufacturers, producers, and importers of medical devices from benefiting from the underlying bill's repeal of the medical device tax if they outsource American jobs. .pdf» 179-239
H.R. 5854 5/31/12 The Motion to Recommit would increase funds for veterans’ medical research and services, including PTSD, brain trauma, and prosthetics, by $28 million. It would also reduce the Defense Base Closure account by $56 million, and apply the additional $28 million in savings to reduce the deficit.  .pdf» 188-230
H.R. 5743 5/31/12 The first responsibility of Members of Congress is to protect and preserve the safety and security of the American people, and the Motion to Recommit meets this responsibility. It would require the head of each element of the intelligence community to protect intelligence from being stolen by or improperly transferred to a foreign state or state sponsor of terror. It also would require each head to protect U.S. capabilities and sensitive information from cyberattacks. Additionally, the Motion to Recommit would prohibit the outsourcing of intelligence contracts to foreign-owned companies unless the Director of National Intelligence determines it to be in the interests of national security.  .pdf» 180-235
H.R. 4310 5/18/12

When U.S.-flagged military ships, and those that support them, need repairs, they should get those repairs here at home.  America has a highly-skilled workforce that's up to the job.  The Motion to Recommit would protect American jobs by requiring that naval and U.S. flagged vessels providing service to the Federal Government may not be overhauled, repaired, or maintained in a shipyard outside the U.S. or Guam without a waiver from the Secretary of Defense.

.pdf» 182-236-
H.R. 4970 5/16/12 Too often, victims of violence fear that their confidentiality and privacy may be compromised if they seek assistance from law enforcement.  The Motion to Recommit ensures that nothing in the House Republican Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization bill rolling back protections will eliminate, reduce, or limit any protection currently available that provides confidentiality to victims of domestic violence. This protection includes the prevention of notifying a suspected batterer of a victim’s efforts to seek assistance from law enforcement. .pdf» 205-222
H.R. 5326 5/10/12 The Motion to Recommit would protect the safety of women by increasing funds for all programs that aid in the prevention and prosecution of violence against women by $20.5 million and decrease funds for the general administrative accounts of the Departments of Commerce and Justice and the Office of Science and Technology by the same amount. .pdf» 181-233
H.R. 5652 5/10/12

The Motion to Recommit would preclude former Members who become registered lobbyists with salaries above $1 million from receiving retirement benefits under the Civil Service Retirement System or Federal Employees Retirement System.  It would also ensure that Members pay an additional portion of their retirement benefits and prohibit Members from making contributions to retirement benefits with accrued or accumulated leave. Taxpayers shouldn’t be responsible for the retirement of millionaire lobbyists

.pdf» 170-232
H.R. 4628 4/27/12 The Motion to Recommit would protect health insurance benefits for women and children by prohibiting the underlying bill from reducing coverage or raising costs for healthcare benefits offered by insurance companies, including benefits such as contraception, mammograms, cervical cancer screenings, childhood immunizations, and health screenings for newborns. Read more on the Gavel» .pdf» 178-231
H.R. 3523 4/26/12 The Motion to Recommit would protect the privacy of Internet passwords by prohibiting employers and the Federal Government from requiring the disclosure of confidential passwords by an employee or job applicant. It would also protect freedom of expression on the Internet by prohibiting the Federal Government from establishing a national firewall similar to the “Great Internet Firewall of China.” .pdf» 183-233
H.R. 9 4/19/12 House Republicans brought another tax giveaway for the rich and famous to the floor. The Motion to Recommit would, unlike the underlying GOP bill, prevent the tax deduction from allowing companies to ship jobs overseas. It would also prevent the tax deduction from being used on income from prostitution, pornography, drug trafficking, lobbying, golf courses that discriminate based on sex or race, or by taxpayers who violate Iran sanctions. Further, any Member of Congress taking the deduction would have to disclose the deduction amount and type of business income from which it came. .pdf» 179-229
H.R. 4348 4/18/12

Congress has a firm responsibility to invest taxpayer dollars where they will do the most good: to create jobs at home and rebuild America. Yet, even as Republicans have sworn off earmarks and unnecessary spending, H.R. 4348 sends taxpayer dollars beyond our borders and keeps funding pet projects. The Motion to Recommit would prohibit the use of Highway Trust Fund revenues from being used for the construction of highways in foreign countries, and rescinds over $12 million in funds available for a road in Canada. It would also eliminate a $3.7 billion corridor earmark under the Appalachian Development Highway System program.

.pdf» 176-242
H.R. 4089 4/17/12 The Motion to Recommit would authorize funds for the Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to effectively enforce oversight of the oil market to combat speculation, and market manipulation. Experts believes that Wall Street speculators are to blame for as much as nearly 20% of the increase in gas prices, which are up 62 cents a gallon in this year alone. It would also prohibit Members from engaging in hunting or fishing trips on Federal land paid for by registered lobbyists. .pdf» 160-261
H.R. 3309 3/27/12

The Motion to Recommit prohibits the underlying bill from limiting the ability of the FCC to adopt a rule or amend an existing rule to protect online privacy including requirements that prohibit licensees or regulated entities from mandating that job applicants or employees disclose confidential passwords to social networking sites like Facebook. Read more on the Gavel»

.pdf» 184-236
H.R. 5 3/22/12

The Motion to Recommit would prohibit ending the Medicare guarantee, turning Medicare into a voucher program, and increasing costs and reducing benefits for seniors and people with disabilities. 

.pdf» 180-229
H.R. 2087 3/20/12

The Motion to Recommit would prohibit the federal land that has been transferred to Accomack County, VA for unrestricted economic development purposes in the underlying bill, from being used for adult entertainment or by foreign governments. 

.pdf» 180-226
H.R. 3606 3/8/12

The Motion to Recommit would require emerging growth companies to publicly disclose to the Federal Election Commission any political expenditures or contributions made during a fiscal year.

.pdf» 170-244
H.R. 2842 3/7/12

The Motion to Recommit would require that all materials used to install conduit hydropower generation under this Act to be manufactured in the United States. 

.pdf» 182-237
H.R. 1837 2/29/12

The Motion to Recommit adds a savings clause that prohibits the underlying bill from preempting or superseding state law, including state water law.

.pdf» 178-248
H.R. 2117 2/28/12

The Motion to Recommit prohibits the underlying bill from limiting the Secretary of Education from promulgating or enforcing any regulation under title IV of the Higher Education Act for the purpose of reducing the cost of higher education for students or during any year in which the interest rate for subsidized Direct Federal Stafford Loans used to purchase credit hours is higher than 3.4 percent. 

.pdf» 176-241
H.R. 3408 2/16/12

The Motion to Recommit would prohibit Federal or State permits or leases from being issued for new oil and gas slant, directional or offshore drilling in, under or within 5 miles of any of the Great Lakes or the Florida Everglades.

.pdf» 176-241
H.R. 3581 2/7/12

The Motion to Recommit would exempt loans for students or veterans from appearing more expensive for budget purposes due to changes in the underlying bill. 

.pdf» 190-238
H.R. 1734 2/7/12 The Motion to Recommit would require that the Civilian Property Realignment Commission, created in the underlying bill, exclude from their consideration properties owned by the Department of Veterans Affairs or used in connection with providing services for veterans, including hospitals, clinics, and facilities that provide job training, post traumatic stress disorder treatment, housing assistance, homeless services and rehabilitative care.   .pdf» 186-238
H.R. 3578 2/3/12

The Motion to Recommit would exempt Pell Grants and education programs for students, health benefits for seniors, veterans benefits, NIH and research to cure cancer, from changes in the underlying bill.

.pdf» 177-238
H.R. 3582 2/2/12 The Motion to Recommit would require the Director of CBO to prepare for each bill or resolution reported by any committee of either Chamber an impact analysis of the budgetary effects major legislation would have on Medicare benefits, Beneficiaries and the Social Security and Medicare trust funds. .pdf» 183-237
H.R. 1173 2/1/12 The Motion to Recommit would prohibit the repeal of the CLASS Act from taking effect until the Secretary of Health and Human Services certifies that a national voluntary long-term care insurance program is in place for people who have Alzheimer’s disease, chronic diabetes, heart disease, cancer, disability or other serious diseases or health conditions. .pdf» 175-247
H.R. 1540 12/14/11

The Motion to Recommit would strike the section of the conference report regarding the determination of whether TRICARE network providers are considered subcontractors. By striking this section, the Motion to Recommit would guarantee that providers are afforded labor protections for civil rights, disabilities, and veterans. 

.pdf» 183-234
H.R. 3630 12/13/11

The Motion to Recommit would provide a 3.1% payroll tax cut, an expansion beyond the Republican bill’s 2% cut, paid for by a surtax on millionaires.  This will not affect the Social Security Trust Fund, which is held harmless for the lost revenue. The Motion to Recommit would also prevent insider trading by Members of Congress by enacting the STOCK Act into law and freezes Member pay.

.pdf» 183-244
H.R. 1633 12/8/11

The Motion to Recommit prohibits the underlying bill from limiting the EPA Administrator from proposing, finalizing, implementing and enforcing any regulation under the Clean Air Act relating to emissions in particulate form of cadmium, lead or asbestos released from mining activities and from demolition and renovation.

.pdf» 166-252
H.R. 10 12/7/11

The Motion to Recommit would exempt any rule regarding country of origin labeling from the underlying bill.  This would protect consumer’s right to know the country of origin of the retail food products they purchase.

.pdf» 183-235
H.R. 3010 12/2/11

The Motion to Recommit ensures (1) the Administration may continue to issue new regulations or revise existing regulations to reduce costs or increase coverage for pharmaceuticals and other health services for seniors; and (2) the Secretaries of HHS, VA and DOD can continue efforts to negotiate lower prescription drug prices.

.pdf» 186-233
H.R. 527 12/1/11

The Motion to Recommit prohibits additional rulemaking procedures that would slow down veteran’s job creation and hiring.

.pdf» 188-233
H.R. 3463 12/1/11 The Motion to Recommit would require the continued protection of elderly, disabled and military voters, notwithstanding the termination of the Election Assistance Commission .pdf» 190-236
H.R. 3094 11/30/11

The Motion to Recommit would amend the National Labor Relations Act by adding provisions that ensure a level playing field for employees, fair and equal access to voters prior to an election, and discourages outsourcing of jobs. 

.pdf» 185-239
H.R. 822 11/16/11

The Motion to Recommit would limit state reciprocity for carrying a gun for child sex offenders, domestic violence offenders and known or suspected terrorists. 

.pdf» 161-263
H.R. 2838 11/15/11

The Motion to Recommit would prohibit the Coast Guard from awarding a contract to anyone convicted of fraud or other criminal offenses including embezzlement theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements, tax evasion, violating criminal tax laws, or receiving stolen property.  

.pdf» 189-235
H.R. 2940 11/3/11

The Motion to Recommit would prohibit those who have been convicted of fraud in connection with a financial transaction, including predatory lending to a veteran, from offering or selling securities under the bill’s new rules.  

.pdf» 190-236
H.R. 2930 11/3/11

The Motion to Recommit prohibits an intermediary (e.g., a bank or broker/dealer) from participating in a crowdfunding transaction if they are doing business with the Iranian government. 

.pdf» 187-237
H.R. 674 10/27/11

The Motion to Recommit would deny relief to companies found delinquent in paying their federal taxes.  

.pdf» 183-235
H.R. 1904 10/26/11

The Motion to Recommit would  prevent land exchanges with companies doing business with Iran. 

.pdf» 187-237
H.R. 2273 10/14/11

The Motion to Recommit would implement a warning system  in the event of a catastrophic failure at a coal ash disposal site.  Under this amendment, the EPA Administrator must require the owner or operator of a surface coal ash disposal site,  such as a disposal pile or lagoon,  to equip such site with a sufficient system to monitor for, and notify the public of a potentially hazardous condition that could lead to failure of the site’s ability to contain coal ash. In the event that a potentially hazardous condition develops that could lead to such a failure, the person owning or operating the site would be required to  immediately take action to eliminate the potentially, hazardous condition, notify State and local first responders and notify, prepare to evacuate, and evacuate, if necessary, local residents that may be affected by the hazardous condition. 

.pdf» 172-238
H.R. 2250 10/13/11

The Motion to Recommit would protect seniors from life threatening air pollution, by requiring the EPA Administrator to not delay action to reduce air pollution from waste incinerators that are within 5 miles of any nursing home, assisted living facility or hospital.  Any facility that will have regulation of its air pollutant emissions delayed by this bill is required to notify affected communities no later than 90 days after the date of enactment.

.pdf» 170-246
H.R. 358 10/13/11

The Motion to Recommit would ensure that no hospital or health care provider can be exempted from any Federal or State law that requires them to provide any medical examination, treatment, referral, or transfer to prevent the death of a pregnant woman with an emergency medical condition. 

.pdf» 173-249
H.R. 3078 10/12/11

The Motion to Recommit would add the Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act as the new title to the United States-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement Implementation Act. The Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act is a part of the Make It In America agenda.  It promotes job creation and gives the Administration effective tools to address the unfair trade practice of currency manipulation by foreign countries, including China, making clear that additional tariffs can be imposed to offset the effects of a “fundamentally undervalued” currency under U.S. trade remedy laws.

.pdf» 192-236
H.R. 2681 10/6/11

The Motion to Recommit would protect infants, children, and pregnant women form toxic and cancer-causing air pollutants, by requiring the EPA Administrator to not delay action to reduce air pollution from cement kilns that are within 5 miles of any school, day care center, playground or hospital with a maternity ward or neo-natal unit.  Any facility that will have regulation of its air pollutant emissions delayed by this bill is required to notify affected communities no later than 90 days after the date of enactment.

.pdf» 176-247
H.R. 2401 9/23/11

The Motion to Recommit would require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to plan and implement a strategy to control air pollution to be deposited in the Great Lakes, including toxic pollution, in order to ensure safe drinking water and protection of public health and the environment.   

.pdf» 180-233
H.R. 2587 9/15/11

The Motion to Recommit prohibits the underlying bill from limiting the National Labor Relations Board’s authority to order an employer to maintain or restore jobs within the United States that have been or will otherwise be outsourced to a foreign country in violation of the National Labor Relations Act. 

.pdf» 189-235
H.R. 2218 9/13/11

The Motion to Recommit would require each state entity that receives a grant, to have in effect policies and procedures for charter schools that require criminal background checks to be conducted for school employees prohibit the employment of an individual for a position as a school employee if they refuse to consent to a criminal background check, make false statements in connection with the background check or have been convicted of a felony. 

.pdf» 189-231
H.R. 1892 9/9/11

The Motion to Recommit would require the head of each element of the intelligence community to place priority on funding activities that counter the threat posed by transnational drug trafficking and the protection of U.S. borders from drug-related crime, violence and gang-related activity in connection with transnational drug trafficking.   

.pdf» 145-257
S. 627 7/29/11 The Motion to Recommit would direct the Joint Committee on Deficit Reduction to eliminate subsidies for the five largest oil and gas companies, and corporate jet owners, before gutting education initiatives that create jobs, spur growth, and invest in our future.
As the oil and gas industry is raking in near-record profits, it is time these companies give up their taxpayer-funded subsidies – to help reduce our deficit and strengthen our economy.
.pdf» 183-244
H.R. 1938 7/26/11

The Motion to Recommit would require that the President takes all necessary actions to ensure that the Keystone pipeline does not result in unfair increases in gas price and that eminent domain is not used to seize farmland to build the pipeline. 

.pdf» 181-248
H.R. 1315 7/21/11

The Motion to Recommit protects seniors from abusive, predatory, unfair, and deceptive practices in the financial marketplace, including fraud related to Social Security and Medicare benefits; foreclosure;
pensions and retirement savings. Republicans already voted this week to “Cut, Cap, and End Medicare” – threatening a critical pillar of seniors’ health and economic security. The least they could do is join Democrats to defend seniors against the worst anti-consumer practices in the consumer finance sector.

.pdf» 183-232
H.R. 2553 7/20/11 Motion to Recommit prohibits air carriers from charging a fee for four or fewer items of baggage checked by a member of the Armed Forces who is traveling in scheduled air transportation on official military duty. Our troops bear any burden on behalf of our security; airlines shouldn’t ask them to pay any price just to catch a flight. .pdf» 187-233
H.R. 2560 7/19/11 Motion to Recommit honors the service and sacrifice of our men and women in uniform by ensuring that no cuts in veterans’ benefits can be included in any balanced budget amendment by prohibiting the House of Representatives or the Senate from considering any balanced budget amendment to the Constitution that could result in a reduction in veterans benefits. The underlying legislation destroys 700,000 jobs, harms economic growth, and ends Medicare while preserving tax breaks for special interests. .pdf» 188-236
H.R. 2354 7/15/11 Motion to Recommit upholds keeping the American people safe by investing an additional $7 million in cyber-security to protect our electrical grid from hacking or terrorist attack. As Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta said before the Senate Armed Services Committee: “The next Pearl Harbor we confront could very well be a cyber-attack that cripples our power systems, our grid, our security systems, our financial systems, our governmental systems.” .pdf» 182-232
H.R. 2018 7/13/11 Motion to Recommit retains EPA's authority to set water pollution standards and review permits when pollutants are being discharged into waters that are a source of public drinking water. For 40 years, the Clean Water Act has kept our waterways clean, enabling Americans to fish, swim, and drink without fear of harm or threat to the public good.
Republicans want to reverse 4 decades of progress and weaken protections for some of our most precious natural resources.
.pdf» 188-238
H.R. 1309 7/12/11 Motion to Recommit provides grants to repair flood-damaged homes and relief from flood insurance premium increases for the flood victims whose residences were damaged by flooding for which the President declared a major disaster or emergency in 2011. This year, our nation has faced floods that are among the worst in a century, resulting in heartbreaking death and destruction. The scope is enormous: the President has declared a disaster or emergency in 29 states and 696 counties across our country. This motion to recommit is fiscally responsible, providing assistance only to those homeowners with existing flood policies who have thus paid into the Flood Insurance Fund. .pdf» 181-244
H.R. 2219 7/8/11 Motion to Recommit increases funds for the Department of Defense-Wide Yellow Ribbon Program by $200 million. The goal of the Yellow Ribbon Program is to prepare Soldiers and Families for mobilization, sustain Families during mobilization, and reintegrate Soldiers with their Families, communities, and employers after mobilization or upon redeployment. It offsets these increases with a $200 million reduction in funds for Afghan Security Forces. Our men and women in uniform serve and sacrifice abroad so we can know safety and security at home. And over the past decade, they have endured two wars, multiple deployments, high unemployment and severe economic hardship. .pdf» 188-234
H.R. 2112 6/16/11 Motion to Recommit increases funds in CFTC (Commodity Futures Trading Commission) by $11.8 million for enforcement against oil and gas speculators which is paid for by making other reductions. The underlying legislation slashes support to women, children, and even infants, along with slashing the funding for CFTC – the agency tasked with policing price manipulation in oil markets, by a stunning 44% from the President’s budget. Speculation in energy markets is at an all-time high and the CFTC is going after those who are driving up the price at the pump, recently charging two traders and three firms with price manipulation for allegedly trying to hoard crude oil and scoring a quick $50 million gain. Now is not the time to make it harder for the CFTC to bring the weight of the law down on oil and gas speculators. Now is the time to make gas more affordable for Americans and small businesses. .pdf» 185-233
H.R. 2055 6/14/11 Motion to Recommit increases funds for veterans medical services for post-traumatic stress disorder and suicide prevention and is paid-for. The motion addresses one of the greatest challenges, and most troubling trends, to emerge from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan – the growing number of suicides and cases of post-traumatic stress disorder among members of our military. Democrats believe we need to fulfil our promise to our veterans by investing in the mental health of our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines. .pdf» 184-234
H.R. 2017 6/2/11 Motion to Recommit is focused on a single goal: strengthening the security of public transit, rail lines, and buses – and the millions of Americans who use public transportation to commute to work and travel across the country. The measure invests $75 million in transit security and safeguards infrastructure considered vulnerable to attack (and it is fully paid-for). Intelligence, homeland security, and defense officials have made it clear time and again: in the United States and around the world, terrorist organizations have targeted, and continue to target, mass transit. .pdf» 187-234
H.R. 1540 5/26/11

Motion to Recommit provides our troops with a $100 per month increase in combat pay.  This will help our brave men and women in uniform to provide for their families while they are serving in the most dangerous situations far from home. Supporting our troops should not be a partisan issue and Republicans should join with Democrats to give a raise to our troops who are serving in harm’s way.

.pdf» 185-233
H.R. 1216 5/25/11

Motion to Recommit ensures that areas most in need of primary doctors continue to get the funding they need to train physicians and treat patients – especially at a time when we already face a shortage of physicians in our medical facilities – by requiring that the Secretary prioritize qualified teaching health centers in underserved areas. Republicans have already voted to end Medicare, making huge cuts in benefits and putting insurance company bureaucrats in charge of seniors’ health care and the unerlying bill is one more step in pursuit of their ideological goal to repeal patients’ rights.

.pdf» 184-236
H.R. 754 5/13/11 Motion to Recommit ensures that our top priority in funding our intelligence services is the campaign to disrupt, dismantle, and defeat Al Qaeda and affiliated organizations. The motion also honors the extraordinary courage, dedication, and sacrifice of the intelligence officers, analysts, and Navy SEALs who located, tracked, and killed Osama bin Laden and commends the leadership of Presidents Obama in carrying out this mission and recognizes the commitment of Presidents Clinton and Bush for advancing this fight – bringing a measure of justice to the families of the victims of 9/11. .pdf» 182-228
H.R. 1231 5/12/11 Motion to Recommit requires Big Oil to sell oil produced on taxpayer-owned property to Americans first – to help bring down gas prices and ease the burden on American drivers – and sends a clear message to the oil industry: start pumping oil on the public land you already own, or another company will get your lease to drill. Big Oil is doing fine on its own – raking in record profits while Americans pay more at the pump. But the GOP still refuses to hold Big Oil accountable and end taxpayer subsidies to the largest oil companies. .pdf» 180-243
H.R. 1229 5/11/11 Motion to Recommit halts new leases to oil companies that still owe fines and penalties for economic and environmental damage in the Gulf of Mexico. As our largest oil companies rake in record profits, we must put Big Oil on notice: drilling can’t expand if they don’t uphold their responsibilities to America’s taxpayers and families. .pdf» 186-239
H.R. 1230 5/5/11 Motion to Recommit requires the 4 leases that would be offered for sale in the underlying bill to specify that all oil and natural gas produced from such leases is offered for sale in the United States and not exported. If oil is taken from land owned by the American taxpayer, it should benefit American families. Democrats want to lower the price of gas, put consumers first, and strengthen our economic recovery. .pdf» 171-238
H.R. 3 5/4/11 Motion to Recommit amends the underlying legislation to clarify that the Federal Government is expressly not permitted to gain access to the private medical records of victims of rape and incest. Democrats are committed to preserving the health, rights, and choices of all women. Republicans continue to push an ideological agenda that attacks women’s health and takes health insurance away from millions of Americans. .pdf» 192-235
H.R. 1213 5/3/11 Motion to Recommit protects Americans with pre-existing conditions by requiring health insurance companies to disclose discrimination and unfair price hikes against those with pre-existing conditions like cancer and banning insurers from health exchanges if they refuse to cover Americans with pre-existing conditions or charge those patients more for their coverage. Republicans should stop their assault on patients’ rights and join Democrats in holding insurance companies accountable and ensuring every American who needs a doctor can see a doctor. .pdf» 190-233
H.R. 1217 4/13/11 Motion to Recommit strikes all of the provisions in the underlying legislation and restores the Prevention and Public Health Fund for prevention, wellness, and public health activities for individuals 65 years or older. Republicans should abandon their assault of Americans’ health, stand up for seniors, and join Democrats to create jobs, responsibly reduce the deficit, and strengthen the middle class. .pdf»  189-234
H.J. Res 37 4/8/11 Democratic Whip Hoyer offered a Motion to Recommit which would provide for a common-sense, simple 1 week extension of funding for government operations with no controversial policy riders attached to it so that negotiations can continue without the immediate threat of a government shutdown but it was ruled of order by the Chair. Mr. Hoyer appealed the ruling of the Chair so he could offer this MTR. .pdf» 235-181
H.R. 910 4/7/11 Motion to Recommit puts the well-being of children and seniors first: by giving the EPA authority to protect vulnerable children and seniors, including kids with asthma and lung diseases, from the ill effects of air pollution. The underlying Republican legislation would threaten Americans’ health by undermining our ability to decrease harmful pollution, undercut fuel efficiency standards that save us money at the gas pump, and increase our country’s dependence on foreign oil. .pdf» 175-251
H.R. 1363 4/7/11 Motion to Recommit would ensure that our troops will get paid. Democrats are committed to supporting our troops, veterans, and their families. These brave Americans bear any burden for our security; they should not have to pay any price for a GOP-led shutdown. .pdf» 191-236
H.R. 1363 4/7/11 Democratic Whip Hoyer attempted to offer an alternative to the Republican CR, which would provide for a common-sense, simple 1 week extension of funding for government operations with no controversial policy riders attached to it so that negotiations can continue without the immediate threat of a government shutdown but it was ruled of order by the Chair. Mr. Hoyer appealed the ruling of the Chair so he could offer this MTR. .pdf» 236-187
H.R. 1255 4/1/11 Motion to Recommit says if Republicans force a government shutdown, Members of Congress and the President should not get paid. Americans’ elected officials should not receive their taxpayer-funded paycheck if they can’t do their jobs and keep public services up and running. .pdf»  188-237
H.R. 658 4/1/11 Motion to Recommit puts Americans’ safety first by deploying federal air marshals on the highest-risk passenger flights and advancing aviation security. In an age of new threats and challenges across the globe, we must do everything in our power to ensure passenger safety and preserve the security of our skies. The Republican bill destroys 70,000 jobs, undermines our nation’s infrastructure, and jeopardizes runway safety and improvements. .pdf» 184-235
H.R. 471 3/30/11 Motion to Recommit invests taxpayer dollars to strengthen DC public and charter schools – at half the cost. The MTR invests in public and charter schools to improve academic achievement and supports special education services. The Republican bill is an ideological drive to fund private school vouchers, add to the deficit, and reauthorize an initiative that failed to improve student achievement – nothing to create jobs or ensure excellence in the classroom. .pdf» 185-238
H.R. 839 3/29/11

Motion to Recommit protects our troops on the battlefield, their loved ones back home, and Gold Star families – ensuring the Home Affordable Modification Program continues to assist those who serve and sacrifice on behalf of our nation’s security. With the recovery just beginning to take hold, Republicans in Congress should not cut off a lifeline to responsible homeowners struggling to keep up with their mortgage payments. The Republican bill would deny approximately half a million homeowners mortgage assistance.

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H.R. 1076 3/17/11 Motion to Recommit ensures that public broadcast networks continue receiving funds to disseminate AMBER Alerts regarding abducted children. NPR is the sole source for news and information in some local and rural areas; it is a critical outlet for public safety alerts in these communities nationwide. The underlying legislation prohibits federal funding of NPR and use of federal funds by public radio stations to acquire programming. .pdf» 184-235
H.R. 861 3/16/11

Motion to Recommit protects rural America from the GOP assault on our nation’s neighborhoods by emphasizing the redevelopment of foreclosed properties in rural areas, stabilizing these communities, keeping home values afloat, and reducing the risk of foreclosure for the remaining residents.

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H.J.Res 48 3/15/11 Motion to Recommit protects the Social Security and Medicare benefits Americans have earned through a lifetime of work by ensuring none of the funds in the short-term Continuing Resolution can be used to privatize and cut Social Security, reduce Medicare and turn it into a voucher program, or roll back health coverage for seniors.The Gavel» .pdf»  190-239
H.R. 836 3/11/11 Motion to Recommit protects our troops, veterans, and Gold Star families from the GOP assault on American homeowners – ensuring the Mortgage Relief Program continues to serve those who pay any price and bear any burden for our security and our freedom. .pdf» 182-238
H.R. 830 3/10/11 Motion to Recommit protects seniors from the GOP’s assault on America’s homeowners by ensuring that the FHA Refinance initiative continues to serve those who have worked a lifetime to own a home and earn financial stability. .pdf» 185-243
H.R. 4 3/3/11 Motion to Recommit repeals taxpayer-funded subsidies for large oil companies to pay for tax credits for the middle class families bearing the brunt of the Republican tax hike in the legislation. .pdf» N/A
H.R. 662 3/2/11 Motion to Recommit rescinds and prohibits funds from being used for the "Bridges to Nowhere." The Gavel» .pdf» 181-246-2
H.J.Res 44 3/1/11 Motion to Recommit repeals taxpayer subsidies for big oil - subsidies even ex-Shell CEO John Hofmeister says "are not necessary.” The Gavel» .pdf» 176-249
H.R. 1 2/19/11 Motion to Recommit restores Pell grants that help millions afford tuition at community colleges and universities. .pdf» 186-238
H.R. 514 2/14/11 Motion to Recommit ensures PATRIOT Act powers are not used to violate the Constitutional freedoms and protections guaranteed to all Americans. The Gavel» .pdf» 186-234
H.Res. 72 2/11/11 Motion to Recommit ensures House Committees work to keep protections for American families in place. .pdf» 178-242
H.R. 359 1/26/11 Motion to Recommit bans secret foreign money in American campaigns by requiring disclosure of foreign countries, companies, or individuals donating to presidential campaigns, as well as donors spending over $100,000 on these contests. The Gavel» .pdf» 173-228
H.Res. 38 1/25/11 Motion to Recommit adds just 33 words to the Republican bill, banning government contracts to companies that outsource American jobs. .pdf» 184-242
H.R. 2 1/19/11 Motion to Recommit makes health care repeal ineffective unless a majority of the House and Senate withdraw from the federal health benefits program within 30 days after passage by each House of Congress. Those who support repeal should have to give up the federal health benefits they currently enjoy as members of Congress – the same benefits and protections they would vote to take away from millions of Americans .pdf» 185-245
H.Res.5 1/5/11 Motion to Commit requires Members of the House to publicly disclose if they are signing up for federal health benefits within 15 days of their being sworn into office. The public has a right to know which Members of the House take health benefits and which Members do not. .pdf» 191-238