hyperdemocracy/usc-textversion huggingface dataset:
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 92 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES February 28, 2013 Mr. Rodney Davis of Illinois (for himself and Mrs. Davis of California ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Education and the Workforce RESOLUTION Encouraging people in the United States to recognize March 1, 2013, as Read Across America Day.

Whereas reading is a basic requirement for quality education and professional success, and is a source of pleasure throughout life; Whereas the people of the United States must be able to read if the United States is to remain competitive in the global economy; Whereas Congress has placed great emphasis on reading intervention and providing additional resources for reading assistance, including through the programs authorized in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 and programs such as Early Reading First, Improving Literacy through School Libraries, and Striving Readers; and Whereas more than 50 national organizations concerned about reading and education have joined with the National Education Association (NEA) to use March 1 to celebrate reading and the birth of Theodor Geisel, also known as Dr. Seuss: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives— (1) honors Theodor Geisel, also known as Dr. Seuss, for his success in encouraging children to discover the joy of reading; (2) honors the 15th anniversary of Read Across America Day; (3) encourages parents to read with their children for at least 30 minutes on Read Across America Day in honor of the commitment of the House of Representatives to building a Nation of readers; and (4) encourages the people of the United States to observe Read Across America Day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 96 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 4, 2013 Ms. Moore submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Education and the Workforce RESOLUTION Expressing support for designation of the week of March 3 through 9, 2013, as School Social Work Week .

Whereas the importance of school social work through the inclusion of school social work programs has been recognized in the current authorizations of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.) and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1400 et seq.); Whereas school social workers serve as vital members of a school’s educational team, playing a central role in creating a positive school climate and vital partnerships between the home, school, and community to ensure student academic success; Whereas school social workers are especially skilled in providing services to students who face serious challenges to school success, including poverty, disability, discrimination, abuse, addiction, bullying, divorce of parents, loss of a loved one, and other barriers to learning; Whereas there is a growing need for local educational agencies to offer the mental health services that school social workers provide when working with families, teachers, principals, community agencies, and other entities to address students’ emotional, physical, and environmental needs so that students may achieve behavioral and academic success; Whereas to achieve the goal of helping all children reach their optimal levels of potential and achievement schools must work to remove the emotional, behavioral, and academic barriers that interfere with student success in school; Whereas fewer than 1 in 5 of the children in need of mental health services actually receive these services, and research indicates that school mental health programs improve educational outcomes by decreasing absences, decreasing discipline referrals, and improving academic achievement; Whereas school mental health programs are critical to early identification of mental health problems and in the provision of appropriate services when needed; and Whereas the celebration of School Social Work Week during the week of March 3 through 9, 2013, highlights the vital role school social workers play in the lives of students in the United States: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives— (1) supports the designation of School Social Work Week ; (2) honors and recognizes the contributions of school social workers to the successes of students in schools across the Nation; and (3) encourages the people of the United States to observe School Social Work Week with appropriate ceremonies and activities that promote awareness of the vital role of school social workers, in schools and in the community as a whole, in helping students prepare for their futures as productive citizens.
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 99 In the House of Representatives, U. S., March 6, 2013 RESOLUTION Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 933) making appropriations for the Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and other departments and agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2013, and for other purposes.

That upon the adoption of this resolution it shall be in order to consider in the House the bill (H.R. 933) making appropriations for the Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and other departments and agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2013, and for other purposes. All points of order against consideration of the bill are waived. The amendment printed in the report of the Committee on Rules accompanying this resolution shall be considered as adopted. The bill, as amended, shall be considered as read. All points of order against provisions in the bill, as amended, are waived. The previous question shall be considered as ordered on the bill, as amended, and on any amendment thereto to final passage without intervening motion except: (1) one hour of debate equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on Appropriations; and (2) one motion to recommit with or without instructions.

Karen L. Haas, Clerk.
IV House Calendar No. 6 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 99 [Report No. 113–12] IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 5, 2013 Mr. Cole of Oklahoma , from the Committee on Rules , reported the following resolution; which was referred to the House Calendar and ordered to be printed RESOLUTION Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 933) making appropriations for the Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and other departments and agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2013, and for other purposes.

That upon the adoption of this resolution it shall be in order to consider in the House the bill (H.R. 933) making appropriations for the Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and other departments and agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2013, and for other purposes. All points of order against consideration of the bill are waived. The amendment printed in the report of the Committee on Rules accompanying this resolution shall be considered as adopted. The bill, as amended, shall be considered as read. All points of order against provisions in the bill, as amended, are waived. The previous question shall be considered as ordered on the bill, as amended, and on any amendment thereto to final passage without intervening motion except: (1) one hour of debate equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on Appropriations; and (2) one motion to recommit with or without instructions.

March 5, 2013 Referred to the House Calendar and ordered to be printed
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 100 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 5, 2013 Mr. Grijalva submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Education and the Workforce RESOLUTION Supporting the goals and ideals of National Middle Level Education Month.

Whereas the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the Association for Middle Level Education, the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Reform, and the National Association of Elementary School Principals have declared the month of March 2013 as National Middle Level Education Month; Whereas schools that educate middle grades students play a critical function in the Nation’s educational system in that they are responsible for educating young adolescents between the ages of 10 and 15 (grades 5 through 9) that are undergoing rapid and dramatic changes in their physical, intellectual, social, emotional, and moral development; Whereas each day nearly 24,000,000 young adolescents enter school deserving what research and practice have shown to help middle grades students achieve, including challenging and engaging instruction, teachers and administrators that are knowledgeable and prepared in order to provide young adolescents with a safe, challenging, and supportive learning environment, and organizational structures that banish anonymity and promote personalization, collaboration, and social equity; Whereas the habits and values established during early adolescence have a critical, life-long influence that directly impacts the future health and welfare of the Nation; Whereas research has found that the academic achievement of eighth grade students has a larger impact on their readiness for college by the end of high school than anything that happens academically in high school; Whereas in order to improve graduation rates and prepare students to be life-long learners ready for college, career, and citizenship, a deeper public understanding of the distinctive mission of the middle level is necessary; and Whereas the month of March 2013 has been declared as National Middle Level Education Month by numerous educational groups: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives— (1) supports the goals and ideals of National Middle Level Education Month; (2) honors and recognizes the importance of middle level education and the contributions of those who educate this unique age group; and (3) encourages the people of the United States to observe National Middle Level Education Month by taking opportunities to visit schools that educate middle grades students and celebrate the schools that are responsible for educating the Nation’s young adolescents.
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 103 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 6, 2013 Mr. Thompson of Pennsylvania (for himself, Mr. Dent , Mr. Barletta , Mr. Brady of Pennsylvania , Mr. Cartwright , Mr. Doyle , Mr. Fattah , Mr. Fitzpatrick , Mr. Gerlach , Mr. Kelly , Mr. Marino , Mr. Meehan , Mr. Murphy of Pennsylvania , Mr. Rothfus , Ms. Schwartz , Mr. Shuster , Mr. Perry , and Mr. Pitts ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Education and the Workforce RESOLUTION Congratulating the Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon on its continued success in support of the Four Diamonds Fund at Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital.

Whereas the Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon (commonly referred to as THON ) is the largest student-run philanthropy in the world, with 710 dancers, more than 15,000 volunteers, and more than 300 supporting organizations involved in the annual event; Whereas student volunteers at the Pennsylvania State University annually raise money and dance for 46 consecutive hours at the Bryce Jordan Center, bringing energy and excitement to the Pennsylvania State University campus for the mission of conquering pediatric cancer and promoting awareness of the disease to thousands of individuals; Whereas all THON activities support the mission of the Four Diamonds Fund at Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital, which provides financial and emotional support to pediatric cancer patients and their families and funds research on pediatric cancer; Whereas THON is the largest donor to the Four Diamonds Fund at Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital each year, having raised more than $100,000,000 since 1977, when the 2 organizations first partnered; Whereas, in 2013, THON set a new fundraising record of $12,374,034.46, surpassing the previous record of $10,686,924.83, set in 2012; Whereas THON— (1) has helped more than 2,000 families through the Four Diamonds Fund; (2) is helping to build a new Pediatric Cancer Pavilion at Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital; and (3) has supported pediatric cancer research that has caused some pediatric cancer survival rates to increase to nearly 90 percent; and Whereas THON has inspired similar organizations and events across the United States, including at high schools and institutions of higher education, and continues to encourage students across the United States to volunteer and remain involved in great charitable causes in their communities: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives— (1) congratulates the Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon (commonly referred to as THON ) on its continued success in support of the Four Diamonds Fund at Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital; and (2) commends the Pennsylvania State University students, volunteers, and supporting organizations for their hard work in organizing another record-breaking THON.
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 107 In the House of Representatives, U. S., March 13, 2013 RESOLUTION Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 890) to prohibit waivers relating to compliance with the work requirements for the program of block grants to States for temporary assistance for needy families, and for other purposes.

That upon the adoption of this resolution it shall be in order to consider in the House the bill (H.R. 890) to prohibit waivers relating to compliance with the work requirements for the program of block grants to States for temporary assistance for needy families, and for other purposes. All points of order against consideration of the bill are waived. An amendment in the nature of a substitute consisting of the text of Rules Committee Print 113–3 shall be considered as adopted. The bill, as amended, shall be considered as read. All points of order against provisions in the bill, as amended, are waived. The previous question shall be considered as ordered on the bill, as amended, and on any amendment thereto to final passage without intervening motion except: (1) one hour of debate equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on Ways and Means; and (2) one motion to recommit with or without instructions.

Karen L. Haas, Clerk.
IV House Calendar No. 7 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 107 [Report No. 113–15] IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 12, 2013 Mr. Cole of Oklahoma , from the Committee on Rules , reported the following resolution; which was referred to the House Calendar and ordered to be printed RESOLUTION Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 890) to prohibit waivers relating to compliance with the work requirements for the program of block grants to States for temporary assistance for needy families, and for other purposes.

That upon the adoption of this resolution it shall be in order to consider in the House the bill (H.R. 890) to prohibit waivers relating to compliance with the work requirements for the program of block grants to States for temporary assistance for needy families, and for other purposes. All points of order against consideration of the bill are waived. An amendment in the nature of a substitute consisting of the text of Rules Committee Print 113–3 shall be considered as adopted. The bill, as amended, shall be considered as read. All points of order against provisions in the bill, as amended, are waived. The previous question shall be considered as ordered on the bill, as amended, and on any amendment thereto to final passage without intervening motion except: (1) one hour of debate equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on Ways and Means; and (2) one motion to recommit with or without instructions.

March 12, 2013 Referred to the House Calendar and ordered to be printed
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 108 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 12, 2013 Mr. Deutch (for himself, Mr. Chabot , Mr. Nadler , Mr. Conyers , and Mr. Watt ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary RESOLUTION Recognizing the 50th anniversary of the landmark case Gideon v. Wainwright, in which the Supreme Court held that counsel must be provided to indigent defendants in all felony cases.

Whereas, on March 18, 1963, the Supreme Court recognized in Gideon v. Wainwright that counsel must be provided to indigent defendants in all felony cases; Whereas the Supreme Court held that providing counsel to indigent defendants in all felony cases meets the essential requirements of the 6th amendment to the United States Constitution; Whereas the Supreme Court held in Argersinger v. Hamlin that indigent defendants are entitled, under the 6th amendment to the United States Constitution, to court-appointed counsel in all cases where imprisonment is a possibility; Whereas 50 years after the Gideon v. Wainwright decision, excessive caseloads are preventing counsel for indigent defendants from providing quality representation; and Whereas the provision of counsel to indigent defendants often lacks fairness and increases the risk that poor people will be wrongfully convicted: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives— (1) recognizes and honors the 50th anniversary of the decision in Gideon v. Wainwright; (2) encourages all people in the United States to recognize and honor the 50th anniversary of the Gideon v. Wainwright decision; and (3) supports strategies to improve the criminal justice system to ensure that indigent defendants in all felony cases are adequately represented by counsel.
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 111 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 12, 2013 Mr. Stewart (for himself, Mr. Westmoreland , Mr. Culberson , Mr. Jones , Mr. Flores , Mr. Huelskamp , Mr. Kingston , Ms. Jenkins , Mr. Nunnelee , Mr. Mulvaney , Mr. Olson , Mr. Bridenstine , and Mr. Salmon ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform RESOLUTION Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the President should refrain from any further taxpayer-funded vacations until the White House can be re-opened for public tours.

Whereas the Obama Administration announced on Tuesday March 5, 2013, that it would cancel all White House tours due to sequestration; Whereas the annual cost to the Secret Service of maintaining the White House open for public tours is approximately $3.7 million; Whereas the President has taken four trips to Hawaii in the past four years, at a cost to the taxpayers of at least $4 million each, as well as numerous other vacations at enormous taxpayer expense; Whereas the President has plans for additional vacations in the coming months; Whereas the President has the complete discretion to transfer funds in such a way as to keep the White House open for tours; and Whereas Congress, under similar budgetary pressures, has maintained the Capitol open for public tours: Now, therefore, be it

That it is the sense of the House of Representatives that the President should refrain from any further vacations at the taxpayers’ expense until such sums have been saved that the people’s White House can be re-opened for public tours.
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 112 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 13, 2013 Mr. Terry (for himself and Mr. Neal ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means RESOLUTION Celebrating the history of municipal bonds, the 100-year precedent of the Federal tax exemption for municipal bond interest, and the important contribution municipal bonds have made to economic growth and wellbeing in each State and municipality in our great Nation.

Whereas in the 200 years since the first recorded municipal bond was issued by the City of New York to build a canal, municipal bonds have helped build a strong economy and provide for the health and welfare of our citizenry; Whereas three-quarters of all infrastructure investments made in the United States are financed by municipal bonds; Whereas municipal bonds finance infrastructure projects that touch the daily lives of every American citizen and business—roads we drive on, schools and education for our children, affordable family housing, water systems that supply safe drinking water, courthouses, hospitals and clinics to treat the sick, airports and ports that help move products domestically and overseas, and utility plants that power our homes, businesses, and factories; Whereas interest on municipal bonds is exempt from Federal taxation as part of the principle of reciprocal immunity under which the Federal Government is exempt from State and local taxation and State and local governments are exempt from Federal taxation; Whereas the Federal Revenue Act of 1913 codified this principle as part of the Federal income tax by exempting from income tax the interest on municipal bonds; Whereas exempting municipal bond interest from Federal taxation reduces the cost of infrastructure financing by State and local governments; Whereas reduced infrastructure costs for State and local governments allow for greater infrastructure investments and savings passed directly to taxpayers and ratepayers in the form of reduced taxes and fees; Whereas, because of critical infrastructure needs, it is estimated that in 2013, $300 billion of municipal bonds will be issued; Whereas keeping infrastructure costs low is critical for job creation and rebuilding infrastructure is crucial to our Nation’s State and local economies, including power generation, distribution, and transmission; Whereas the ability of municipal bonds and the 100-year precedent of the Federal income tax exemption for municipal bonds provides State and local governments timely access to cost-effective capital; and Whereas the Federal tax exemption for municipal bond interest is a cost-effective financing vehicle available to State and local governments: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives— (1) celebrates the history of municipal bonds; (2) celebrates the 100-year precedent of the Federal tax exemption for municipal bond interest; and (3) celebrates the important contribution municipal bonds have made to the economic growth and wellbeing in each State and municipality in our great Nation.
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 113 In the House of Representatives, U. S., March 14, 2013 RESOLUTION Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 803) to reform and strengthen the workforce investment system of the Nation to put Americans back to work and make the United States more competitive in the 21st century.

That at any time after the adoption of this resolution the Speaker may, pursuant to clause 2(b) of rule XVIII, declare the House resolved into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for consideration of the bill (H.R. 803) to reform and strengthen the workforce investment system of the Nation to put Americans back to work and make the United States more competitive in the 21st century. The first reading of the bill shall be dispensed with. All points of order against consideration of the bill are waived. General debate shall be confined to the bill and shall not exceed one hour equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on Education and the Workforce. After general debate the bill shall be considered for amendment under the five-minute rule. In lieu of the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Education and the Workforce now printed in the bill, it shall be in order to consider as an original bill for the purpose of amendment under the five-minute rule an amendment in the nature of a substitute consisting of the text of Rules Committee Print 113–4. That amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be considered as read. All points of order against that amendment in the nature of a substitute are waived. No amendment to that amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be in order except those printed in the report of the Committee on Rules accompanying this resolution. Each such amendment may be offered only in the order printed in the report, may be offered only by a Member designated in the report, shall be considered as read, shall be debatable for the time specified in the report equally divided and controlled by the proponent and an opponent, shall not be subject to amendment, and shall not be subject to a demand for division of the question in the House or in the Committee of the Whole. All points of order against such amendments are waived. At the conclusion of consideration of the bill for amendment the Committee shall rise and report the bill to the House with such amendments as may have been adopted. Any Member may demand a separate vote in the House on any amendment adopted in the Committee of the Whole to the bill or to the amendment in the nature of a substitute made in order as original text. The previous question shall be considered as ordered on the bill and amendments thereto to final passage without intervening motion except one motion to recommit with or without instructions.

Karen L. Haas, Clerk.
IV House Calendar No. 8 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 113 [Report No. 113–16] IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 13, 2013 Ms. Foxx , from the Committee on Rules , reported the following resolution; which was referred to the House Calendar and ordered to be printed RESOLUTION Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 803) to reform and strengthen the workforce investment system of the Nation to put Americans back to work and make the United States more competitive in the 21st century.

That at any time after the adoption of this resolution the Speaker may, pursuant to clause 2(b) of rule XVIII, declare the House resolved into the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union for consideration of the bill (H.R. 803) to reform and strengthen the workforce investment system of the Nation to put Americans back to work and make the United States more competitive in the 21st century. The first reading of the bill shall be dispensed with. All points of order against consideration of the bill are waived. General debate shall be confined to the bill and shall not exceed one hour equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on Education and the Workforce. After general debate the bill shall be considered for amendment under the five-minute rule. In lieu of the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Education and the Workforce now printed in the bill, it shall be in order to consider as an original bill for the purpose of amendment under the five-minute rule an amendment in the nature of a substitute consisting of the text of Rules Committee Print 113–4. That amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be considered as read. All points of order against that amendment in the nature of a substitute are waived. No amendment to that amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be in order except those printed in the report of the Committee on Rules accompanying this resolution. Each such amendment may be offered only in the order printed in the report, may be offered only by a Member designated in the report, shall be considered as read, shall be debatable for the time specified in the report equally divided and controlled by the proponent and an opponent, shall not be subject to amendment, and shall not be subject to a demand for division of the question in the House or in the Committee of the Whole. All points of order against such amendments are waived. At the conclusion of consideration of the bill for amendment the Committee shall rise and report the bill to the House with such amendments as may have been adopted. Any Member may demand a separate vote in the House on any amendment adopted in the Committee of the Whole to the bill or to the amendment in the nature of a substitute made in order as original text. The previous question shall be considered as ordered on the bill and amendments thereto to final passage without intervening motion except one motion to recommit with or without instructions.

March 13, 2013 Referred to the House Calendar and ordered to be printed
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 116 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 13, 2013 Mr. Peters of Michigan submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Armed Services RESOLUTION Expressing support for the designation of March 13 as K–9 Veterans Day , in order to recognize the service and improve the treatment of military working dogs.

Whereas, on March 13, 1942, the Quartermaster Corps of the United States Army began training dogs for a newly established War Dog Program, or K–9 Corps; Whereas military working dogs and their handlers have served the United States since World War I in roles such as sentry duty, search and rescue, detection of explosives and narcotics, border protection, and other military and law enforcement duties; Whereas, in 1921, General John Pershing awarded a gold medal to Sgt. Stubby , a military working dog, and the dog visited the White House in 1921 to meet President Harding and in 1924 to meet President Coolidge; Whereas Chips , a German Shepherd-Collie-Siberian Husky who valiantly served with the Third Infantry Division during World War II, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, and Purple Heart for taking actions that saved lives in his unit; Whereas Chips ’ awards were revoked due to Army policy; Whereas over 10,000 military working dogs were trained at War Dog Centers during World War II; Whereas Federal, State, and municipal law enforcement agencies utilize working dogs to achieve their missions and protect our communities; Whereas K–9 veterans have saved countless lives at home and abroad in service to United States military and law enforcement agencies; Whereas, today, over 2,300 military working dogs are deployed worldwide in support of the Global War on Terrorism; Whereas the United States has increasingly relied on military working dogs due to their unique skills and capabilities; and Whereas retired military working dogs have successfully transitioned to roles as pets and therapy dogs: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives— (1) supports the designation of K–9 Veterans Day ; and (2) supports efforts to recognize the service of military working dogs and their handlers.
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 117 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 14, 2013 Mr. Chaffetz submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Education and the Workforce RESOLUTION Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Federal Government should not bail out State and local government employee pension plans or other plans that provide post-employment benefits to State and local government retirees.

Whereas the Federal Government is operating at a huge annual deficit and is rapidly increasing its outstanding debt every year; Whereas the Federal Government, as of December 2012, is carrying more than $16.0 trillion in debt, of which $11.6 trillion is owed to the public and $4.8 trillion is owed to Social Security and other trust funds; Whereas the Federal Government borrowed 31 cents for every dollar it spent in 2012; Whereas foreign governments, individuals, and corporations as of September 2012 own 48 percent of Federal debt owned by the public; Whereas Social Security's unfunded liabilities in 2012 are $8.6 trillion over 75 years and $20.5 trillion over the infinite horizon; Whereas the Federal debt is expected to increase by more than $6 trillion from 2013 to 2022 according to the Congressional Budget Office; Whereas State and local governments are heavily dependent on Federal revenues; Whereas more than 16 percent of the entire Federal budget goes directly to States and local governments; Whereas more than 20 percent of total State and local government general revenue comes from the Federal Government according to Census Bureau's latest Annual Survey of State and Local Government Finance; Whereas numerous State and local government employee pension plans have offered overly generous retirement benefits to its employees and are in dire financial situations with combined unfunded liabilities up to $4.4 trillion; Whereas many State and local government pension plans have understated liabilities and overstated asset growth rates and have employed methodologies that private sector plans are prohibited from using by Federal law; and Whereas several State and local pension plans are expected to fully exhaust their funds within ten years: Now, therefore, be it

That it is the sense of the House of Representatives that— (1) the Federal Government should not bailout State and local government employee pension plans and other post-employment benefit plans; and (2) State and local governments should immediately institute reforms to their employee pension plans, including replacing defined benefit plans with defined contribution plans.
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 120 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 15, 2013 Mr. Grimm (for himself, Mr. Tiberi , Mr. Pascrell , and Mr. Lipinski ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs RESOLUTION A resolution commemorating the life and service of Benedict XVI, Pope Emeritus, and congratulating Pope Francis on his election as Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church.

Whereas Benedict XVI, Pope Emeritus, a man of monumental courage and humility, whose unceasing love and devotion to the ministry of Christ helped steward the Catholic Church and the faithful through the daunting challenges of the 21st century; Whereas Benedict leaves behind an enduring legacy, both as renowned theologian and kind-hearted leader who balanced the august splendor of the papacy with a gentle humanity, and masterfully communicated the timeless morality of the Church in a crusade against the modern evils of relativism, materialism, and consumerism; Whereas the election to the papacy of His Holiness Pope Francis, formerly Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina, marks a groundbreaking moment in the life of the Catholic Church, elevating a marvelous suitor to lead the world’s largest apostolic Christian ministry; Whereas Pope Francis has inspired a vibrant sense of reform and spiritual renewal in the Church, representing the first pontiff born in the New World, the first hailing from Latin America, and the first prelate ordained in the renowned Society of Jesus or Jesuits; Whereas the Pope’s chosen regnal name of Francis, after St. Francis of Assisi, as well as his unrivaled reputation as a personally devoted minister to the needs of the poor and outcast, emphasizes the opportunities and obligations of mankind to serve a missionary role in advancing peace, social justice, and moral contemplation for the betterment of all God’s children; Whereas as President of the Argentine Episcopal Conference, Pope Francis’ experience as spiritual guide and premiere pastoral administrator of one of the Holy See’s largest and most active diocese reveals his unique ability to accomplish much needed reforms in the Vatican and sustain a growing Church in the world’s developing communities in Latin America, Africa, and Asia; and Whereas Pope Francis’ striking humility and simple gentleness empowers him to connect with and renew the hearts of the faithful and heal the recent wounds of the Church: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives— (1) offers its congratulations to Pope Francis as he embarks on the sacred burden as the leader of the world’s 1,200,000,000 Catholics; and (2) extends its gratitude and well-wishes to Benedict XVI, Pope Emeritus, for his service to the world community as he enters the next phase of his devotion to the Church in solemn prayer and reflection.
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 123 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 18, 2013 Mrs. Beatty submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce RESOLUTION Expressing support for designation of May as National Stroke Awareness Month.

Whereas stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident, is an acute neurologic injury that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted by a clot in the artery or a burst of the artery; Whereas stroke is a medical emergency that can cause permanent neurologic damage or even death if not promptly diagnosed and treated; Whereas in the United States, stroke is the fourth leading cause of death; Whereas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 person in the United States dies from stroke every 4 minutes; Whereas every year, more than 795,000 people in the United States have a stroke; Whereas stroke costs the United States an estimated $54,000,000,000 each year, including the costs of health care services, medications, and missed days of work; Whereas stroke is a leading cause of serious long-term disability; Whereas those disabilities may require ongoing physical therapy and surgeries; Whereas the permanent health concerns and treatments resulting from stroke have a considerable impact on children, families, and society; and Whereas May would be an appropriate month to designate as National Stroke Awareness Month: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives— (1) supports the designation of National Stroke Awareness Month; (2) encourages the people of the United States to support the efforts, programs, services, and advocacy of organizations that work to enhance public awareness of stroke; and (3) encourages continued coordination and cooperation between government, researchers, families, and the public to improve treatments and prognoses for individuals who suffer strokes.
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 125 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 18, 2013 Mr. Shuster (for himself, Mr. Rothfus , Ms. Schwartz , Mr. Brady of Pennsylvania , Mr. Thompson of Pennsylvania , Mr. Murphy of Pennsylvania , Mr. Barletta , Mr. Pitts , Mr. Doyle , Mr. Marino , Mr. Fitzpatrick , Mr. Gerlach , Mr. Meehan , Mr. Cartwright , Mr. Kelly , Mr. Fattah , Mr. Dent , and Mr. Perry ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Armed Services RESOLUTION Encouraging the Navy to commission the USS Somerset (LPD–25) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Whereas the USS Somerset (LPD–25) is the ninth and newest amphibious transport dock ship in the San Antonio class; Whereas the USS Somerset honors the passengers of United Airlines Flight 93 whose actions prevented terrorist hijackers from reaching their intended target, forcing the aircraft to crash in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, on September 11, 2001; Whereas, in the words of former Secretary of the Navy Gordon England, The courage and heroism of the people aboard the flight will never be forgotten and USS Somerset will leave a legacy that will never be forgotten by those wishing to do harm to this country. ; Whereas the USS Somerset joins the USS New York (LPD–21) and the USS Arlington (LPD–24) in remembering the heroes of September 11, 2001; Whereas the USS Somerset was christened in July 2012 and will be commissioned when it is put in active service; Whereas the Navy has cleared Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, as a potential site for the commissioning ceremony of the USS Somerset; and Whereas Philadelphia is one of the closest ports to Somerset County, and it would be fitting that the commissioning ceremony be held there: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives encourages the Navy to commission the USS Somerset (LPD–25) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 127 In the House of Representatives, U. S., March 19, 2013 RESOLUTION Dismissing the election contest relating to the office of Representative from the Twenty Eighth Congressional District of Texas.

That the election contest relating to the office of Representative from the Twenty Eighth Congressional District of Texas is dismissed.

Karen L. Haas, Clerk.
IV House Calendar No. 13 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 127 [Report No. 113–22] IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 19, 2013 Mrs. Miller of Michigan , from the Committee on House Administration, submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the House Calendar and ordered to be printed RESOLUTION Dismissing the election contest relating to the office of Representative from the Twenty Eighth Congressional District of Texas.

That the election contest relating to the office of Representative from the Twenty Eighth Congressional District of Texas is dismissed.

March 19, 2013 Referred to the House Calendar and ordered to be printed
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 129 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 19, 2013 Mr. Long submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means , and in addition to the Committee on Financial Services , for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned RESOLUTION Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Congress should not pass any legislation that would tax or confiscate personal savings accounts, including retirement accounts such as Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) and 401k plans, certificates of deposit (CDs), or other personal savings to provide financial relief for private businesses.

Whereas the personal savings and retirement accounts of the American public are the personal property of their owners; Whereas personal savings and retirement accounts are used by millions of Americans to fund their retirement, their children’s education, their purchase of a family home, and other uses according to their pursuit of happiness; Whereas the United States Government should not abuse its power by substituting political priorities for the personal economic choices of millions of individual Americans; Whereas previous attempts to use taxpayer money to provide financial relief to troubled industries has failed to produce economic recovery and has undermined the American system of economic freedom; and Whereas the American system of economic freedom has given millions of ordinary people the opportunity to pursue economic success and their American dream: Now, therefore, be it

That it is the sense of the House of Representatives that the Congress should— (1) refrain from considering or adopting any legislation that would tax or confiscate any or all personal savings held by the American people, including retirement accounts such as Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) and 401k plans, certificates of deposit (CDs), or other personal savings and assets; and (2) refrain from considering or adopting any legislation to provide financial relief to a private business or general sector of the American economy at taxpayer expense.
IV 113th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 130 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 20, 2013 Mr. Waxman (for himself, Mr. Roskam , Mr. Cárdenas , Mr. Honda , Mr. Mica , Ms. Speier , Mr. Carson of Indiana , Mr. Bentivolio , Mr. Connolly , Mrs. Carolyn B. Maloney of New York , Mr. Sherman , Ms. Clarke , and Ms. Edwards ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs RESOLUTION Recognizing the cultural and historical significance of Nowruz and acknowledging the Cyrus Cylinder as a symbol of respect for human rights and religious tolerance.

Whereas Nowruz marks the traditional Iranian New Year, which originated in ancient Persia, and dates back more than 3,000 years; Whereas Nowruz occurs on the vernal equinox and celebrates the arrival of spring; Whereas Nowruz serves to remind the United States of the many lasting contributions of the Persian civilization to the world and the noteworthy impact of Iranian-Americans to the social and economic fabric of society in the United States; Whereas in 539 B.C.E., the Cyrus Cylinder, an ancient clay cylinder inscribed with a declaration in Babylonian cuneiform in the name of Cyrus, which was created following the Persian conquest of Babylon has, over the centuries, come to symbolize mankind’s first document on human rights; Whereas Cyrus II (also known as Cyrus the Great) of Persia is recognized for his achievements in human rights, politics, and religious tolerance, as well as his influence on future Eastern and Western civilizations; Whereas the policies of Cyrus toward minority religions are further documented in Babylonian texts and Jewish sources, and historical accounts; Whereas the Cyrus Cylinder has had significant impact on the respect for human rights that Iranian Americans believe in today; Whereas an exhibition will tour in the United States to celebrate the Cyrus Cylinder as a symbol of tolerance and respect for different peoples and different faiths; Whereas the Cyrus Cylinder exhibition will take place in Washington, DC, Houston, Texas, New York, New York, San Francisco, California, and Los Angeles, California; Whereas the launch of the Cyrus Cylinder exhibition coincides with the Nowruz holiday and connects the Persian New Year to the values of human rights; and Whereas the Cyrus Cylinder symbolizes the universal hopes and aspirations of all people for human rights and religious tolerance: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives— (1) recognizes the cultural and historical significance of Nowruz; (2) recognizes the hopes and aspirations of all people, including the people of Iran for human rights and religious tolerance as embodied by the Cyrus Cylinder; and (3) recognizes the tour of the Cyrus Cylinder throughout the United States.