hyperdemocracy/usc-textversion huggingface dataset:
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 247 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES September 19, 2013 Ms. Stabenow (for herself and Mr. Thune ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating the week of September 16 through September 20, 2013, as National Health Information Technology Week to recognize the value of health information technology in transforming and improving the healthcare system for all people in the United States.

Whereas health information technology has been recognized as an essential tool for improving patient care, ensuring patient safety, stopping duplicative tests and paperwork, and reducing healthcare costs; Whereas the Center for Information Technology Leadership has estimated that the fully realized implementation of national standards for interoperability and the exchange of health information could produce significant savings in healthcare costs; Whereas the use of health information technology enables providers to utilize innovative tools to provide more efficient, personalized, and better coordinated care, and helps patients be more engaged in managing their own treatment; Whereas Congress has made a commitment to realizing the benefits of health information technology, including supporting the adoption of electronic health records that will help to reduce costs and improve quality while ensuring the privacy of patients; Whereas the adoption of electronic health records more than doubled for physician practices and more than quadrupled for hospitals between 2008 and 2012; Whereas it is necessary to continue improving the exchange of health information confidently and securely between different providers, systems, and insurers—a task that is foundational to transforming the healthcare delivery system of the United States; Whereas aligning the use of electronic health records with other reporting efforts is critical to improving clinical outcomes for patients, controlling costs, and expanding access to care through the use of technology; and Whereas, since 2006, organizations across the United States have united to support National Health Information Technology Week to improve public awareness of the benefits of improved quality and cost efficiency of the healthcare system that the implementation of health information technology could achieve: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates the week of September 16 through September 20, 2013, as National Health Information Technology Week ; (2) recognizes the value of information technology and management systems in transforming healthcare for the people of the United States; and (3) calls on all interested parties to promote the use of information technology and management systems to transform the healthcare system of the United States.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 252 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES September 24, 2013 Mr. Cruz submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations RESOLUTION Expressing the sense of the Senate on steps the Government of Iran must take before President Obama meets with the President of Iran.

Whereas the newly elected President of Iran, Hassan Rouhani, is attending the 68th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City; Whereas the Government of Iran has yet to take any practical steps towards halting Iran’s nuclear programs and remains a committed state-sponsor of terrorist groups that have been responsible for American deaths in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Afghanistan; Whereas, since the election of President Rouhani, the persecution by the Government of Iran of religious minorities, notably Christians, has increased not decreased, and the United States citizen Pastor Sayeed Abedini has endured a year of brutal imprisonment for professing his faith; Whereas President Rouhani has called Israel the Zionist state that has been a wound that has sat on the body of the Muslim world for years and needs to be removed ; and Whereas President Barack Obama has signaled a willingness to meet with President Rouhani in New York during the meeting of the United Nations Security Council or thereafter: Now, therefore, be it

That it is the sense of the Senate that President Obama should not engage in any meeting with President Rouhani before the Government of Iran— (1) affirms the right of Israel to exist as a Jewish state; and (2) immediately and without conditions releases all United States citizens unjustly detained as prisoners of conscience in Iran.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 257 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES September 25 (legislative day, September 24), 2013 Mrs. Murray (for herself, Mr. Isakson , Mr. Cochran , Mr. Begich , Mr. Wicker , Mr. Durbin , Ms. Landrieu , and Mr. Bennet ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating October 3, 2013, as Jumpstart's Read for the Record Day .

Whereas Jumpstart, a national early education organization, is working to ensure that every child in the United States can enter kindergarten prepared to succeed; Whereas Jumpstart recruits and trains college students and community volunteers year-round to deliver a high-quality early education curriculum to preschool children in low-income neighborhoods, helping preschool children develop the key language and literacy skills they need in order to succeed in school and in life; Whereas, since 1993, Jumpstart has engaged nearly 28,000 adults in service to more than 50,000 young children in communities across the United States; Whereas Jumpstart’s Read for the Record, presented in partnership with the Pearson Foundation, is a national campaign that culminates in 1 day out of the year when millions of people in the United States come together to celebrate literacy and support Jumpstart in its efforts to promote early childhood education; Whereas the goals of Jumpstart's Read for the Record are— (1) to raise awareness of the importance of early childhood education in the United States; (2) to support the mission of Jumpstart, as well as early education programs established by Jumpstart in preschools in low-income neighborhoods; and (3) to celebrate the commencement of Jumpstart’s program year; Whereas October 3, 2013, would be an appropriate date to designate as “Jumpstart’s Read for the Record Day” because it is the date on which Jumpstart aims to set the world record for the largest shared reading experience; and Whereas Jumpstart hopes to engage more than 2,385,305 adults and children in reading “Otis”, by Loren Long, during a record-breaking celebration of reading and service, in support of preschool children in the United States: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates October 3, 2013, as Jumpstart's Read for the Record Day ; (2) commends Jumpstart’s Read for the Record on its 8th year; (3) encourages adults, including grandparents, parents, teachers, and college students, to join children in creating the world’s largest shared reading experience and to show their support for early literacy and Jumpstart’s early education programming for young children in low-income communities; and (4) respectfully requests the Secretary of the Senate to transmit a copy of this resolution to Jumpstart, one of the leading nonprofit organizations in the United States in the field of early childhood education.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 259 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES September 25 (legislative day, September 24), 2013 Ms. Collins (for herself, Mrs. Murray , and Mr. Carper ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating September 2013 as Campus Fire Safety Month .

Whereas recent campus-related fires at colleges in Massachusetts, Ohio, Minnesota, Wisconsin, New York, Kansas, and other States have tragically cut short the lives of several young people; Whereas, since January 2000, at least 162 people, including students, parents, and children, have died in campus-related fires; Whereas approximately 86 percent of those deaths occurred in off-campus residences; Whereas a majority of college students in the United States live in an off-campus residence; Whereas many fatal fires have occurred in a building in which the occupants had compromised or disabled the fire safety system; Whereas automatic fire alarm systems provide the early warning of a fire that is necessary for occupants of a building and the fire department to take appropriate action; Whereas automatic fire sprinkler systems are a highly effective method of controlling or extinguishing a fire in the early stages, thus protecting the lives of building occupants; Whereas many college students live in an off-campus residence, fraternity or sorority housing, or a residence hall that is not adequately protected by an automatic fire sprinkler system and an automatic fire alarm system; Whereas fire safety education is an effective method of reducing the occurrence of fires and the resulting loss of life and property damage; Whereas college students do not routinely receive effective fire safety education while in college; Whereas educating young people in the United States about the importance of fire safety is vital to help ensure that young people engage in fire-safe behavior during college and after college; and Whereas developing a generation of adults who practice fire safety may significantly reduce future loss of life from fires: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates September 2013 as Campus Fire Safety Month ; and (2) encourages administrators of institutions of higher education and municipalities across the United States— (A) to provide educational programs about fire safety to all college students in September and throughout the school year; (B) to evaluate the level of fire safety being provided in both on-campus and off-campus student housing; and (C) to ensure fire-safe living environments through fire safety education, the installation of fire suppression and detection systems, and the development and enforcement of applicable codes relating to fire safety.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 260 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES September 25 (legislative day, September 24), 2013 Mr. Franken (for himself, Mr. Hatch , Ms. Klobuchar , Mrs. Murray , Mr. Johnson of South Dakota , Mr. Schatz , Mr. Kirk , Mr. Cochran , Mr. Warner , and Mrs. Feinstein ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Recognizing the month of October 2013 as National Principals Month .

Whereas the National Association of Secondary School Principals and the National Association of Elementary School Principals have declared the month of October 2013 to be National Principals Month ; Whereas principals are educational visionaries, instructional and assessment leaders, disciplinarians, community builders, budget analysts, facilities managers, and administrators of legal and contractual obligations; Whereas principals work collaboratively with teachers and parents to develop and implement a clear mission, high curriculum standards, and performance goals; Whereas principals create school environments that facilitate great teaching and learning and continuous school improvement; Whereas the vision, actions, and dedication of principals provide the mobilizing force behind any school reform effort; and Whereas the celebration of National Principals Month would honor elementary school, middle school, and high school principals, and recognize the importance of principals in ensuring that every child has access to a high-quality education: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) recognizes the month of October 2013 as National Principals Month ; and (2) honors the contribution of principals in the elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools of the United States by supporting the goals and ideals of National Principals Month.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 261 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES September 26, 2013 Mr. Graham (for himself, Mrs. Hagan , Mr. Coons , Mr. Cochran , Mr. Isakson , Ms. Landrieu , Mr. Casey , Mr. Pryor , Ms. Mikulski , Mr. Durbin , Mr. Blunt , Mrs. Murray , Mr. Alexander , Mr. Burr , Mr. Boozman , Mr. Nelson , Mr. Murphy , Mr. Kaine , Mr. Cardin , Mrs. Feinstein , Mr. Coburn , Mr. Grassley , and Mr. Sessions ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating the week beginning September 23, 2013, as National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week .

Whereas there are 106 historically Black colleges and universities in the United States; Whereas historically Black colleges and universities provide the quality education essential to full participation in a complex, highly technological society; Whereas historically Black colleges and universities have a rich heritage and have played a prominent role in the history of the United States; Whereas historically Black colleges and universities allow talented and diverse students, many of whom represent underserved populations, to attain their full potential through higher education; and Whereas the achievements and goals of historically Black colleges and universities are deserving of national recognition: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates the week beginning September 23, 2013, as National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week ; and (2) calls on the people of the United States and interested groups to observe the week with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs to demonstrate support for historically Black colleges and universities in the United States.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 262 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES September 26, 2013 Mr. Donnelly (for himself, Mr. Isakson , Mr. Begich , Mr. Boozman , Mr. Chambliss , Ms. Hirono , and Mr. Tester ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Supporting the goals and ideals of suicide prevention awareness.

Whereas suicide is the tenth leading cause of all deaths in the United States and the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10 and 34; Whereas, on average, there is a death by suicide in the United States every 13.7 minutes; Whereas an estimated 6,000,000 individuals in the United States are survivors of suicide, meaning they have lost a loved one to suicide; Whereas suicide is a leading noncombat cause of death among members of the Armed Forces; Whereas, on average, 22 veterans are lost to suicide in the United States each day; Whereas the Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide Prevention Act ( Public Law 110–110 ; 121 Stat. 1031) was enacted in 2007 to establish a comprehensive program for suicide prevention among veterans; Whereas the Veterans Crisis Line, which was established under the Joshua Omvig Veteran Suicide Prevention Act, has received more than 890,000 telephone calls and facilitated more than 30,000 life-saving rescues; Whereas the stigma associated with mental illness and suicidality works against suicide prevention by discouraging individuals at risk of suicide from seeking life-saving help and further traumatizes survivors of suicide; Whereas 90 percent of the individuals who die by suicide have a diagnosable psychiatric disorder at the time of death; Whereas many suicides are preventable; and Whereas September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) supports the goals and ideals of National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month; (2) supports efforts during National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month to raise awareness and improve outreach to individuals at risk for suicide, especially such efforts addressed to veterans and members of the Armed Forces; and (3) encourages the people of the United States to learn more about the warning signs of suicide and how each person can help prevent suicide and promote mental health.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 264 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES October 1, 2013 Mr. Reid (for himself and Mr. McConnell ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION To authorize testimony, documents, and representation in State of Florida v. Lawrence, Denny, Scarbrough .

Whereas, in the cases of State of Florida v. Lawrence , Case No. 2013–CM–011301, State of Florida v. Denny , Case No. 2013–CM–011303, and State of Florida v. Scarbrough , Case No. 2013–CM–011311, pending in the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit of Hillsborough County Court in Tampa, Florida, the prosecution has requested the production of documents and testimony from an employee in the office of Senator Marco Rubio; Whereas, pursuant to sections 703(a) and 704(a)(2) of the Ethics in Government Act of 1978, 2 U.S.C. §§ 288b(a) and 288c(a)(2), the Senate may direct its counsel to represent an employee of the Senate with respect to any subpoena, order, or request for testimony relating to his official responsibilities; Whereas, by the privileges of the Senate of the United States and Rule XI of the Standing Rules of the Senate, no evidence under the control or in the possession of the Senate may, by the judicial or administrative process, be taken from such control or possession but by permission of the Senate; and Whereas, when it appears that evidence under the control or in the possession of the Senate may promote the administration of justice, the Senate will take such action as will promote the ends of justice consistent with the privileges of the Senate: Now, therefore, be it

That Ryan Patmintra, an employee in the Office of Senator Marco Rubio, and any other employee of that office from whom relevant evidence may be sought, are authorized to produce documents and provide testimony in the cases of State of Florida v. Lawrence, Denny, Scarbrough , except concerning matters for which a privilege should be asserted. 2. The Senate Legal Counsel is authorized to represent employees of Senator Rubio’s office in connection with the production of evidence authorized in section one of this resolution.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 266 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES October 4, 2013 Mr. Rockefeller (for himself, Mr. Alexander , and Mr. Levin ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating the week of October 7 through 13, 2013, as National Chess Week to enhance awareness and encourage students and adults to engage in a game known to enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Whereas there are more than 80,000 members of the United States Chess Federation (referred to in this preamble as the Federation ), and unknown numbers of additional people in the United States who play chess without joining an official organization; Whereas approximately ½ of the members of the Federation are members of scholastic chess programs; Whereas many studies have linked scholastic chess programs to the improvement of students' scores in reading and math, as well as improved self-esteem; Whereas the Federation offers guidance to educators to help incorporate chess into the school curriculum; Whereas chess is a powerful cognitive learning tool that can be used to successfully enhance students' reading skills and understanding of math concepts, as well as to improve memory function for people of all ages; Whereas chess also offers educational and social activity benefits to adults and is used in programs to help stroke victims and people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder; and Whereas the Federation offers programs for adults including senior citizens, members of the Armed Forces, and veterans: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates the week of October 7 through 13, 2013, as National Chess Week to enhance awareness and encourage students and adults to play chess, a game known to enhance critical-thinking and problem-solving skills for students of all ages, learning abilities, and strengths; and (2) encourages the people of the United States to observe National Chess Week with appropriate programs and activities.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 267 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES October 9, 2013 Ms. Klobuchar (for herself, Mr. Franken , Mr. Reid , Mr. McConnell , Mr. Alexander , Ms. Ayotte , Ms. Baldwin , Mr. Barrasso , Mr. Baucus , Mr. Begich , Mr. Bennet , Mr. Blumenthal , Mr. Blunt , Mr. Boozman , Mrs. Boxer , Mr. Brown , Mr. Burr , Ms. Cantwell , Mr. Cardin , Mr. Carper , Mr. Casey , Mr. Chambliss , Mr. Chiesa , Mr. Coats , Mr. Coburn , Mr. Cochran , Ms. Collins , Mr. Coons , Mr. Corker , Mr. Cornyn , Mr. Crapo , Mr. Cruz , Mr. Donnelly , Mr. Durbin , Mr. Enzi , Mrs. Feinstein , Mrs. Fischer , Mr. Flake , Mrs. Gillibrand , Mr. Graham , Mr. Grassley , Mrs. Hagan , Mr. Harkin , Mr. Hatch , Mr. Heinrich , Ms. Heitkamp , Mr. Heller , Ms. Hirono , Mr. Hoeven , Mr. Inhofe , Mr. Isakson , Mr. Johanns , Mr. Johnson of Wisconsin , Mr. Johnson of South Dakota , Mr. Kaine , Mr. King , Mr. Kirk , Ms. Landrieu , Mr. Leahy , Mr. Lee , Mr. Levin , Mr. Manchin , Mr. Markey , Mr. McCain , Mrs. McCaskill , Mr. Menendez , Mr. Merkley , Ms. Mikulski , Mr. Moran , Ms. Murkowski , Mr. Murphy , Mrs. Murray , Mr. Nelson , Mr. Paul , Mr. Portman , Mr. Pryor , Mr. Reed , Mr. Risch , Mr. Roberts , Mr. Rockefeller , Mr. Rubio , Mr. Sanders , Mr. Schatz , Mr. Schumer , Mr. Scott , Mr. Sessions , Mrs. Shaheen , Mr. Shelby , Ms. Stabenow , Mr. Tester , Mr. Thune , Mr. Toomey , Mr. Udall of Colorado , Mr. Udall of New Mexico , Mr. Vitter , Mr. Warner , Ms. Warren , Mr. Whitehouse , Mr. Wicker , and Mr. Wyden ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Relative to the death of Rod Grams, former United States Senator for the State of Minnesota.

Whereas Rod Grams faithfully served the people of Minnesota with distinction in the United States Congress; Whereas Rod Grams was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1992 and served one term as a Representative from the State of Minnesota and later served as a chief of staff in the House of Representatives; Whereas Rod Grams was elected to the United States Senate in 1994 and served one term as a Senator from the State of Minnesota; and Whereas as a Senator, Rod Grams served on the Senate Standing Committees on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, Energy and Natural Resources, Foreign Relations, and the Budget and on the Joint Economic Committee: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate has heard with profound sorrow and deep regret the announcement of the death of the Honorable Rod Grams, former member of the United States Senate. That the Secretary of the Senate communicate these resolutions to the House of Representatives and transmit an enrolled copy thereof to the family of the deceased. That when the Senate adjourns today, it stand adjourned as a further mark of respect to the memory of the Honorable Rod Grams.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 268 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES October 11, 2013 Mr. Coons (for himself, Mr. Flake , Ms. Mikulski , Mr. Nelson , Mr. Isakson , Mrs. Feinstein , and Mrs. Shaheen ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations October 31, 2013 Reported by Mr. Menendez , without amendment November 6, 2013 Considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Condemning the September 2013 terrorist attack at the Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya, and reaffirming United States support for the people and Government of Kenya, and for other purposes.

Whereas, on September 21, 2013, armed terrorists attacked the Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya, killing more than 60 people and injuring at least 175 from at least 12 different countries during a four-day siege; Whereas the attack was the most deadly terrorist incident in Kenya since the 1998 al Qaeda bombing of the United States Embassy in Nairobi; Whereas al Shabaab, a Somali Islamist extremist group with ties to al Qaeda, has claimed responsibility for the attack, declaring that it was in retaliation for the Government of Kenya’s participation in the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM); Whereas al Shabaab was designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the United States Government in 2008 and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist entity in 2012; Whereas the investigation to identify those responsible for the attack and efforts to bring them to justice are ongoing; Whereas Kenya is an important ally and regional security partner, playing a vital role in breaking al Shabaab’s recent stranglehold on Somalia through its participation in AMISOM; Whereas the Republic of Kenya and the United States have a strong and enduring partnership based on a shared commitment to promoting peace and prosperity in East Africa and around the world; and Whereas Kenya is a culturally rich and ethnically diverse country: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) condemns, in the strongest possible terms, the heinous atrocities and terrorist attack that occurred at the Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya, from September 21 through 24, 2013; (2) offers its condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of those who were killed in the attack and expresses its hope for the recovery of the wounded, including United States citizens; (3) recognizes the many heroic and selfless acts by Kenyan citizens, first responders, and the Kenya Red Cross to rescue those caught in the Westgate Mall during the attack; (4) reaffirms United States support for the efforts of the Government and people of Kenya to combat terrorism, counter extremism, promote tolerance, and bring the perpetrators of the Westgate Mall attack to justice; (5) commends the Government of Kenya’s continued participation in the African Union Mission in Somalia; and (6) recognizes Kenya as an important regional ally and partner of the United States.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 268 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES October 11, 2013 Mr. Coons (for himself and Mr. Flake ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations RESOLUTION Condemning the September 2013 terrorist attack at the Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya, and reaffirming United States support for the people and Government of Kenya, and for other purposes.

Whereas, on September 21, 2013, armed terrorists attacked the Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya, killing more than 60 people and injuring at least 175 from at least 12 different countries during a four-day siege; Whereas the attack was the most deadly terrorist incident in Kenya since the 1998 al Qaeda bombing of the United States Embassy in Nairobi; Whereas al Shabaab, a Somali Islamist extremist group with ties to al Qaeda, has claimed responsibility for the attack, declaring that it was in retaliation for the Government of Kenya’s participation in the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM); Whereas al Shabaab was designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the United States Government in 2008 and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist entity in 2012; Whereas the investigation to identify those responsible for the attack and efforts to bring them to justice are ongoing; Whereas Kenya is an important ally and regional security partner, playing a vital role in breaking al Shabaab’s recent stranglehold on Somalia through its participation in AMISOM; Whereas the Republic of Kenya and the United States have a strong and enduring partnership based on a shared commitment to promoting peace and prosperity in East Africa and around the world; and Whereas Kenya is a culturally rich and ethnically diverse country: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) condemns, in the strongest possible terms, the heinous atrocities and terrorist attack that occurred at the Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya, from September 21 through 24, 2013; (2) offers its condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of those who were killed in the attack and expresses its hope for the recovery of the wounded, including United States citizens; (3) recognizes the many heroic and selfless acts by Kenyan citizens, first responders, and the Kenya Red Cross to rescue those caught in the Westgate Mall during the attack; (4) reaffirms United States support for the efforts of the Government and people of Kenya to combat terrorism, counter extremism, promote tolerance, and bring the perpetrators of the Westgate Mall attack to justice; (5) commends the Government of Kenya’s continued participation in the African Union Mission in Somalia; and (6) recognizes Kenya as an important regional ally and partner of the United States.
III Calendar No. 234 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 268 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES October 11, 2013 Mr. Coons (for himself, Mr. Flake , Ms. Mikulski , Mr. Nelson , Mr. Isakson , Mrs. Feinstein , and Mrs. Shaheen ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations October 31, 2013 Reported by Mr. Menendez , without amendment RESOLUTION Condemning the September 2013 terrorist attack at the Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya, and reaffirming United States support for the people and Government of Kenya, and for other purposes.

Whereas, on September 21, 2013, armed terrorists attacked the Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya, killing more than 60 people and injuring at least 175 from at least 12 different countries during a four-day siege; Whereas the attack was the most deadly terrorist incident in Kenya since the 1998 al Qaeda bombing of the United States Embassy in Nairobi; Whereas al Shabaab, a Somali Islamist extremist group with ties to al Qaeda, has claimed responsibility for the attack, declaring that it was in retaliation for the Government of Kenya’s participation in the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM); Whereas al Shabaab was designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the United States Government in 2008 and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist entity in 2012; Whereas the investigation to identify those responsible for the attack and efforts to bring them to justice are ongoing; Whereas Kenya is an important ally and regional security partner, playing a vital role in breaking al Shabaab’s recent stranglehold on Somalia through its participation in AMISOM; Whereas the Republic of Kenya and the United States have a strong and enduring partnership based on a shared commitment to promoting peace and prosperity in East Africa and around the world; and Whereas Kenya is a culturally rich and ethnically diverse country: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) condemns, in the strongest possible terms, the heinous atrocities and terrorist attack that occurred at the Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya, from September 21 through 24, 2013; (2) offers its condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of those who were killed in the attack and expresses its hope for the recovery of the wounded, including United States citizens; (3) recognizes the many heroic and selfless acts by Kenyan citizens, first responders, and the Kenya Red Cross to rescue those caught in the Westgate Mall during the attack; (4) reaffirms United States support for the efforts of the Government and people of Kenya to combat terrorism, counter extremism, promote tolerance, and bring the perpetrators of the Westgate Mall attack to justice; (5) commends the Government of Kenya’s continued participation in the African Union Mission in Somalia; and (6) recognizes Kenya as an important regional ally and partner of the United States.

October 31, 2013 Reported without amendment
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 271 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES October 16, 2013 Mr. Graham submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations RESOLUTION Expressing the sense of the Senate that United States military assistance for Cambodia should be suspended until an independent and credible investigation occurs into the July 28, 2013, parliamentary elections, and election reforms are being implemented by the Government of Cambodia.

Whereas independent domestic and international organizations have raised serious concerns regarding the integrity of the parliamentary elections held in Cambodia on July 28, 2013; Whereas, according to Human Rights Watch, the Cambodian government-controlled National Election Committee (NEC) has failed to address credible allegations of voter fraud and other irregularities or systematic unfairness in the election process ; Whereas opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) leader Sam Rainsy noted in an October 7, 2013, Cambodia Daily op-ed article that the inaugural meeting of the newly formed government was boycotted by 55 CNRP-elected parliamentarians as a result of the refusal of the ruling Cambodian People's Party to address shocking election irregularities that allegedly denied CNRP additional parliamentary seats; Whereas United Nations’ Special Rapporteur for Human Rights in Cambodia Surya P. Subedi noted that it is critical for the new National Assembly to be represented by the two key parties, for the National Assembly to be truly representative of the whole of the Cambodian people and for it to be concluded that the right to vote was effectively exercised on 28 July ; Whereas in a September 23, 2013, statement, the United States Embassy in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, called for a transparent review of irregularities in the July 28 national elections which would help efforts to assess and address flaws in the electoral process and give the Cambodian people greater confidence in the electoral system ; Whereas the CNRP boycott calls into question the legitimacy of the Cambodian National Assembly and government; and Whereas the policy of the Administration of a strategic rebalance toward the Asia Pacific Region should include support for democracy, human rights, and justice in Cambodia: Now, therefore, be it

That it is the sense of the Senate that the United States should suspend military assistance for Cambodia until— (1) an independent and credible investigation occurs into the July 28, 2013, parliamentary elections in Cambodia, and any recommendations arising out of such investigation are fully implemented; and (2) the Government of Cambodia, in consultation with civil society and political parties in Cambodia, is implementing election reforms to prevent incidents of fraud and abuse in subsequent national and local elections in Cambodia.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 273 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES October 16, 2013 Mr. Hoeven (for himself, Mr. Cardin , Mr. Roberts , Mr. Blunt , Mr. Tester , and Ms. Heitkamp ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating October 26, 2013, as Day of the Deployed .

Whereas more than 2,500,000 individuals serve as members of the United States Armed Forces; Whereas several hundred thousand members of the Armed Forces rotate each year through deployments to over 150 countries in every region of the world; Whereas more than 2,300,000 members of the Armed Forces have deployed to the area of operations of the United States Central Command since the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks; Whereas the United States is kept strong and free by the loyal military personnel from the active, National Guard, and Reserve components, who protect the precious heritage of the country through their positive declaration and actions; Whereas members of the Armed Forces serving at home and abroad have courageously answered the call to duty to defend the ideals of the United States and to preserve peace and freedom around the world; Whereas members of the Armed Forces personify the virtues of patriotism, service, duty, courage, and sacrifice; Whereas the families of members of the Armed Forces make important and significant sacrifices for the United States; Whereas the Senate designated October 26 as Day of the Deployed in 2011 and 2012; and Whereas all 50 States designated October 26 as Day of the Deployed in 2012: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates October 26, 2013, as Day of the Deployed ; (2) honors the deployed members of the United States Armed Forces and their families; (3) calls on the people of the United States to reflect on the service of those members of the Armed Forces, wherever they serve, past, present, and future; and (4) encourages the people of the United States to observe Day of the Deployed with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 274 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES October 16, 2013 Mrs. Boxer (for herself, Ms. Collins , Mr. Johnson of South Dakota , Mr. Baucus , Mr. Whitehouse , Ms. Landrieu , Mr. Cochran , and Mrs. Feinstein ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Supporting Lights On Afterschool, a national celebration of afterschool programs held on October 17, 2013.

Whereas more than 28,000,000 children in the United States have parents who work outside the home and approximately 15,100,000 children in the United States have no place to go after school; Whereas high-quality programs that expand learning opportunities for children, such as afterschool, before-school, summer, and expanded learning programs, provide safe, challenging, engaging, and fun learning experiences that help children and youth develop social, emotional, physical, cultural, and academic skills; Whereas high-quality afterschool programs and high-quality expanded learning programs provide students with hands-on, engaging lessons that are aligned with the school day; Whereas high-quality afterschool programs complement regular and expanded school days, and support working families by ensuring that the children of those families are safe and productive during the hours parents are working; Whereas high-quality afterschool programs engage families, schools, and diverse community partners in advancing the well-being of children and youth in the United States; Whereas high-quality afterschool programs that partner with high-quality community-based organizations build stronger communities by integrating the school with the larger community; Whereas Lights On Afterschool, a national celebration of afterschool, before-school, summer, and expanded learning programs held on October 17, 2013, highlights the critical importance of these high-quality programs in the lives of children, their families, and their communities; and Whereas nearly 2 in 5 afterschool programs report that their budgets are in worse condition today than at the height of the recession in 2008, and more than 3 in 5 afterschool programs report that their level of funding is lower than it was 3 years ago, making it difficult for afterschool programs across the United States to keep their doors open and their lights on: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate supports Lights On Afterschool, a national celebration of afterschool programs held on October 17, 2013.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 276 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES October 29, 2013 Mr. Merkley (for himself, Mr. Crapo , Mr. Durbin , Mrs. Murray , Mr. Schatz , Mr. Brown , Mr. Udall of New Mexico , Mr. Heinrich , Mr. Begich , Mr. Warner , and Mr. Cardin ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating October 2013 as National Work and Family Month .

Whereas, according to a report by WorldatWork, a nonprofit professional association with expertise in attracting, motivating, and retaining employees, the quality of a job and the supportiveness of a workplace are key predictors of the job productivity, job satisfaction, and commitment to the employer of workers, as well as of the ability of an employer to retain workers; Whereas the term work-life balance refers to specific organizational practices, policies, and programs that are guided by a philosophy of active support for the efforts of employees to achieve success within and outside the workplace, such as caring for dependents, promoting health and wellness, providing paid and unpaid time off, providing financial support, encouraging community involvement, and improving workplace culture; Whereas numerous studies show that employers that offer effective work-life balance programs are better able to recruit more talented employees, maintain a happier, healthier, and less stressed workforce, and retain experienced employees, which produces a more productive and stable workforce with less voluntary turnover; Whereas job flexibility often allows parents to be more involved in the lives of their children, and research demonstrates that parental involvement is associated with higher achievement in language and mathematics, improved behavior, greater academic persistence, and lower dropout rates in children; Whereas military families have special work-life needs that often require robust policies and programs that provide flexibility to employees in unique circumstances; Whereas studies show that family rituals such as sitting down to dinner together and sharing activities on weekends and holidays positively influence the health and development of children, and that children who eat dinner with their families every day consume nearly a full serving more of fruits and vegetables per day than those who never eat dinner with their families or do so only occasionally; and Whereas the month of October is an appropriate month to designate as National Work and Family Month: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates October 2013 as National Work and Family Month ; (2) recognizes the importance of work schedules that allow employees to spend time with their families to job productivity and healthy families; (3) urges public officials, employers, employees, and the general public to work together to achieve more balance between work and family; and (4) calls upon the people of the United States to observe National Work and Family Month with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 277 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES October 30, 2013 Mr. Warner (for himself, Mr. Cornyn , Mr. Menendez , and Mr. Coons ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary November 4, 2013 Committee discharged; considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Recognizing the religious and historical significance of the festival of Diwali.

Whereas Diwali is a festival of great significance and celebrated annually by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains throughout India, the United States, and the world; Whereas Diwali is a festival of lights that marks the beginning of the Hindu new year, during which celebrants light and place small lamps around the home and pray for health, knowledge, peace, wealth, and prosperity in the new year; Whereas Diwali will be celebrated throughout the world for five days and is an opportunity to celebrate the faith of all people and the universal right to religious expression and spiritual freedom; Whereas the lights symbolize the light of knowledge within the individual that overwhelms the darkness of ignorance, empowering each celebrant to do good deeds and show compassion to others; Whereas Diwali falls on the last day of the last month in the lunar calendar and is celebrated as a day of thanksgiving for the homecoming of the Lord Rama and worship of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and bestower of blessings, at the beginning of the new year for many Hindus; Whereas, for Sikhs, Diwali is celebrated as Bandhi Chhor Diwas (The Celebration of Freedom), in honor of the release from imprisonment of the sixth guru, Guru Hargobind; and Whereas, for Jains, Diwali marks the anniversary of the attainment of moksha, or liberation, by Mahavira, the last of the Tirthankaras (the great teachers of Jain dharma), at the end of his life in 527 B.C.: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) recognizes the religious and historical significance of the festival of Diwali, the festival of lights, and expresses its respect for the people of India, Indian Americans, and members of the Indian diaspora around the world on this significant occasion; and (2) supports a strong relationship between the people and governments of the United States and India, based on mutual trust and respect that will enable the countries to more closely collaborate across a broad spectrum of interests, such as global peace and prosperity.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 277 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES October 30, 2013 Mr. Warner (for himself, Mr. Cornyn , Mr. Menendez , and Mr. Coons ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary RESOLUTION Recognizing the religious and historical significance of the festival of Diwali.

Whereas Diwali is a festival of great significance and celebrated annually by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains throughout India, the United States, and the world; Whereas Diwali is a festival of lights that marks the beginning of the Hindu new year, during which celebrants light and place small lamps around the home and pray for health, knowledge, peace, wealth, and prosperity in the new year; Whereas Diwali will be celebrated throughout the world for five days and is an opportunity to celebrate the faith of all people and the universal right to religious expression and spiritual freedom; Whereas the lights symbolize the light of knowledge within the individual that overwhelms the darkness of ignorance, empowering each celebrant to do good deeds and show compassion to others; Whereas Diwali falls on the last day of the last month in the lunar calendar and is celebrated as a day of thanksgiving for the homecoming of the Lord Rama and worship of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and bestower of blessings, at the beginning of the new year for many Hindus; Whereas, for Sikhs, Diwali is celebrated as Bandhi Chhor Diwas (The Celebration of Freedom), in honor of the release from imprisonment of the sixth guru, Guru Hargobind; and Whereas, for Jains, Diwali marks the anniversary of the attainment of moksha, or liberation, by Mahavira, the last of the Tirthankaras (the great teachers of Jain dharma), at the end of his life in 527 B.C.: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) recognizes the religious and historical significance of the festival of Diwali, the festival of lights, and expresses its respect for the people of India, Indian Americans, and members of the Indian diaspora around the world on this significant occasion; and (2) supports a strong relationship between the people and governments of the United States and India, based on mutual trust and respect that will enable the countries to more closely collaborate across a broad spectrum of interests, such as global peace and prosperity.
III 113th CONGRESS 1st Session S. RES. 278 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES October 30, 2013 Mr. Thune (for himself and Mr. Rockefeller ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating October 2013 as School Bus Safety Month .

Whereas approximately 450,000 public and private school buses carry 26,000,000 children to and from school every weekday in the United States; Whereas America's 450,000 public and private school buses comprise the largest mass transportation fleet in the Nation; Whereas during the school year, school buses make more than 55,000,000 passenger trips daily and students ride these school buses 10,000,000,000 times per year as the Nation’s fleet travels over 4,000,000,000 miles per school year; Whereas school buses are designed to be safer than passenger vehicles and are 13 times safer than other modes of school transportation, and 44 times safer than vehicles driven by teenagers; Whereas in an average year, about 25 school children are killed in school bus accidents, with one-third of these children struck by their own school buses in loading/unloading zones, one-third struck by motorists who fail to stop for school buses, and one-third killed as they approach or depart a school bus stop; Whereas The Child Safety Network, celebrating 25 years of national public service, has collaborated with the school bus industry to create public service announcements to reduce distracted driving near school buses, increase ridership, and provide free resources to school districts in order to increase driver safety training, provide free technology for tracking school buses, and educate students; and Whereas the adoption of School Bus Safety Month will allow broadcast and digital media and social networking industries to make commitments to disseminate public service announcements designed to save children’s lives by making motorists aware of school bus safety issues: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate designates October 2013 as School Bus Safety Month .