Veto Watch
Faced with a Congress working to take America in a new direction, President Bush—who vetoed nothing during his first five and a half years in office—has now vetoed 11 bills and threatened to veto 54 more. The Democratic-led House of Representatives has passed legislation to address the toughest challenges we face—working together to defend our country, restore accountability, grow our economy, strengthen our families, and preserve our planet, most with a bi-partisan majority. Unfortunately, in many cases, the President has been a stubborn opponent of progress for the American people on these key issues.
VETOED BY THE PRESIDENT
The Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act - H.R. 6331
This legislation prevents the pending 10 percent payment reduction for physicians in Medicare, enhances Medicare preventive and mental health benefits, improves and extends programs for low-income Medicare beneficiaries, and extends expiring provisions for rural and other providers.
Passed June 24, 2008
Vetoed on July 15, 2008
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The Farm Bill - H.R. 2419
The farm bill will better reflect our values, strengthening American agriculture to meet the 21st Century needs of the United States and the world with a safe, stable food supply. It will ease the strain of rising food prices for millions of families, take a first step on much-needed reforms to farm payments, and make a substantial commitment to land conservation and to the fruit and vegetable industry.
Passed May 14, 2008
Vetoed on May 21, 2008
Veto Overridden by the House and Senate on May 22, 2008
The Farm Bill - H.R. 6124
Due to a glitch in the enrollment process, the original version of the Farm Bill inadvertently did not include Title III of the bill. On May 22, the House passed a new bill -- H.R. 6124 -- containing all 15 Farm Bill titles, by a vote of 306 to 110. The Senate then passed H.R. 6124 on June 5 by a vote of 77 to 15.
On June 18, the President again vetoed the bill
Veto Overridden by the House and Senate on June 18, 2008
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Intelligence Authorization for FY 2008 - H.R. 2082
The bill authorizes the largest amount for intelligence programs ever authorized - containing numerous provisions to improve the effectiveness of intelligence programs and agencies. It also includes an amendment that extends to U.S. intelligence agencies and personnel the current prohibitions in the Army Field Manual against torture.
Final version passed by the House on December 13, 2007
Vetoed on March 8, 2008
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Defense Authorization Bill for FY 2008 - H.R. 1585
This measure will provide the necessary resources and authorities to quickly and efficiently reverse declining trends in military readiness, and will also provide our service members in harm’s way with the best gear and force protection possible. Our troops will get better health care, better pay, and the benefits they have earned.
Passed December 12, 2007
Vetoed on December 28, 2007
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Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations legislation - H.R. 3043
This legislation invests in our nation’s communities and families. The strength of our country is not just our national security strength; it is what we have here at home. This legislation targets spending towards programs including student financial aid, No Child Left Behind, low income energy assistance, employment and training, and community block grants.
Passed July 19, 2007
Final version passed by the House on November 8, 2007
Vetoed on November 13, 2007
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Water Resources Development Act - H.R. 1495
This legislation authorizes several projects and studies for the United States Army Corps of Engineers to carry out its major missions of flood control to protect our lives and livelihoods, viable navigation corridors for the movement of goods and services, and ecosystem restoration projects to improve the health of our nation’s environment.
Passed April 19, 2007
Final version passed by the House on August 1, 2007
Vetoed on November 2, 2007
Veto Overridden by the House on November 6, 2007
Veto Overridden by the Senate on November 8, 2007
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Reauthorizing the Children's Health Insurance Program - H.R. 976
This bill brings health coverage to approximately ten million children in need – preserving coverage for all 6.6 million children currently covered by the successful Children's Health Insurance Program, and reaching millions more low-income, uninsured American children in the next five years.
Passed August 1, 2007
Final version passed by the House on September 25, 2007
Vetoed on October 3, 2007
Revised Children's Health Insurance Legislation - H.R. 3963
A revised version of the children's health insurance legislation will once again provides 10 million American children with health care while meeting certain concerns that have been raised. SCHIP provides health coverage to American children whose parents do not qualify for Medicaid, but can not afford private insurance. This bill would bring health coverage to approximately ten million children in need – preserving coverage for all 6.6 million children currently covered by SCHIP, and reaching millions more low-income, uninsured American children in the next five years.
Revised version passed on October 23, 2007
Revised version vetoed on December 12, 2007
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Promoting Life-Saving Stem Cell Research - H.R. 3/S.5
This research bill increases the number of lines of stem cells that are eligible to be used in federally-funded research. The bill authorizes Health and Human Services (HHS) to support research involving embryonic stem cells meeting certain criteria, regardless of the date on which the stem cells were derived from an embryo. The bill only authorizes the use of stem cell lines generated from embryos that would otherwise be discarded by fertility clinics.
Passed January 11, 2007
Final version passed by the House on June 7, 2007
Vetoed on June 20, 2007
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U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans’ Health and Iraq Accountability Act
Had it not been vetoed by the President, this bill would have supported our troops and veterans, held the Bush Administration and Iraqi government accountable, and brought our soldiers home by August 2008 or sooner. It would have expanded funding for veterans’ health care and hospitals and refocused military efforts on Afghanistan and fighting terrorism.
Passed March 23, 2007
Vetoed on May 1, 2007
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THE PRESIDENT HAS THREATENED TO VETO
Economic Recovery - H.R. 7110
This legislation to boost our economy, create jobs, and help provide additional relief to families who are struggling. The Appropriations for Job Creation and Preservation, Infrastructure Investment, and Economic and Energy Assistance Act, H.R. 7110, will:
- Grow our economy and create jobs through investment in our nation’s infrastructure;
- Extend unemployment benefits for the growing number of Americans looking for work;
- Help ensure families don’t go hungry with Food Stamp assistance; and
- Ensure Americans do not lose health coverage as a result of state budget crises.
Passed September 26, 2008
Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition (.pdf)>>
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The Commodity Market Transparency and Accountability Act - H.R. 6604
This bill would take crucial steps to curb excessive speculation in the energy futures markets.
Passed September 18, 2008
Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition (.pdf)>>
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Comprehensive American Energy Security and Consumer Protection Act - H.R. 6899
The legislation is a bold step forward, helping end our dependence on foreign oil and increase our national security. It launches a clean renewable energy future that creates new American jobs, expands domestic energy supply--including new offshore drilling, and invents and builds more efficient vehicles, buildings, homes, and infrastructure. It will lower costs to consumers and protect the interests of taxpayers. It is a comprehensive strategy, and the product of bipartisan compromise. It offers Republicans who want a comprehensive approach the choice to make sure Big Oil pays its fair share.
Passed September 16, 2008
Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition (.pdf)>>
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The Justice for Victims of Torture and Terrorism Act - H.R. 5167
This legislation allows former prisoners of war to sue the Iraqi government for torture or abuse they suffered during the 1991 Gulf War.
Passed September 15, 2008
Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition (.pdf)>>
Barring Access of Long-Haul Mexican Trucks - H.R. 6630
This legislation ends a demonstration program undertaken by the Bush Administration allowing long-haul Mexican trucks on U.S. roads beyond a 25-mile border zone along the U.S.-Mexican border.
Passed September 9, 2008
Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition (.pdf)>>
The Paycheck Fairness Act - H.R. 1338
Although the wage gap between men and women has narrowed since the passage of the landmark Equal Pay Act in 1963, gender-based wage discrimination remains a problem for women in the U.S. workforce. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, women only make 77 cents for every dollar earned by a man. The Institute of Women’s Policy Research found that this wage disparity will cost women anywhere from $400,000 to $2 million over a lifetime in lost wages. Furthermore, loopholes created by courts and weak sanctions in the law have allowed many employers to avoid liability for engaging in gender-based pay discrimination. The Paycheck Fairness Act, introduced by U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), will strengthen the Equal Pay Act and close the loopholes that have allowed employers to avoid responsibility for discriminatory pay.
Passed July 31, 2008
Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition (.pdf)>>
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Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act - H.R. 1108
This bill grants the Food and Drug Administration authority to regulate the advertising, marketing, and manufacturing of tobacco products.
Passed July 30, 2008
Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition (.pdf)>>
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FY 2009 Intelligence Authorization - H.R. 5959
This legislation will strengthen and improve America's intelligence capabilities. The bill makes key investments to strengthen intelligence, including adding critical funding to enhance human intelligence collection (including enhancing language capabilities), strengthening research and development in advanced technologies, and improving signals intelligence. The bill also has a series of strong provisions to promote accountability and oversight, including prohibiting the use of CIA contractors to interrogate detainees, requiring a report on compliance with the Detainee Treatment Act of 2005 and related provisions of the Military Commissions Act of 2006, and creating a statutory, Senate-confirmed Inspector General for the entire Intelligence Community.
Passed July 16, 2008
Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition (.pdf)>>
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The Electronic Message Preservation Act - H.R. 5811
The bill modernizes the requirements of the Presidential Records Act and the Federal Records Act in order to ensure that the e-mail records of the White House and of federal agencies are properly preserved.
Passed July 9, 2008
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition (.pdf)>>
Homes for Heroes Act - H.R. 3329
This bill expands housing assistance and supportive services for homeless veterans. While the brave men and women of our nation’s armed forces have risked their lives to defend our country, as veterans too many of them have no place to call home. The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that more than 400,000 veterans are homeless at some point during the year. It also estimates that nearly 200,000 veterans are homeless on any given night.
Passed July 9, 2008
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition (.pdf)>>
Alternative Minimum Tax Relief Act - H.R. 6275
On June 25, the House passed the Alternative Minimum Tax Relief Act, H.R. 6275, to provide millions of middle-class families with tax cuts without increasing the national debt. These middle-class tax cuts will help to ease the strain of rising gas and food prices and are a critical part of our plan to grow the American economy, which is on the brink of recession. Failure to pass this legislation would result in more than 25 million families facing a tax increase this year.
Passed June 25, 2008
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition (.pdf)>>
The Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act - H.R. 5781
The bill provides four weeks of paid parental leave for federal employees for the birth or adoption of a child. In addition to the four weeks, employees will also be allowed to use any accrued annual or sick leave for parental leave, up to eight weeks.
Passed June 19, 2008
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition (.pdf)>>
21st Century Green High-Performing Public School Facilities Act - H.R. 3021
This critical bill provides a five-year authorization for a green school construction program, authorizing $6.4 billion for school construction projects in fiscal year 2009, and ensuring that school districts will quickly receive funds for school modernization, renovation and repairs that improve the teaching and learning climate, health and safety, and energy efficiency. The bill requires that the majority of funds (90 percent by fiscal year 2013) be used for projects that meet green building standards.
Passed June 4, 2008
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition (.pdf)>>
The Gas Price Relief for Consumers Act - H.R. 6074
This bill authorizes the Justice Department to take legal action against OPEC state-controlled entities that participate in conspiracies to limit the supply, or fix the price, of oil. This bill will combat record gas prices.
Passed May 20, 2008
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition (.pdf)>>
The Worker Protection Against Combustible Dust Explosion and Fire Act - H.R. 5522
This bill would require the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration to issue rules regulating combustible industrial dusts, like sugar dust, that can build up to hazardous levels and explode. In early February the Imperial Sugar refinery in Port Wentworth, Georgia, exploded, killing 13 workers and severely injuring many more. OSHA and the U.S. Chemical Safety Board, which have launched a major investigation into the Imperial Sugar explosion, have concluded that the explosion was caused by combustible sugar dust.
Passed April 30, 2008
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
Coast Guard Authorization - H.R. 2830
The Coast Guard Authorization provides critical resources to strengthen the Coast Guard--strengthening the security of our waterways and ports, strengthening marine safety, and enhancing environmental protection.
Passed April 24, 2008
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
The Taxpayer Assistance and Simplification Act - H.R. 5719
The Taxpayer Assistance and Simplification Act. H.R. 5719 is a critical good government tax bill to:
- Stop taxpayer harassment by ending the private collection of federal taxes,
- Strengthen taxpayer protections from identity theft and tax fraud,
- Stop federal contractors from using foreign subsidiaries to evade Social Security and other employment taxes, and
- Simplify cell phone tax reporting and expand tax help for low-income taxpayers.
Passed April 15, 2008
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
FISA Amendments - H.R. 3773
The revised House legislation to amend FISA grants new authorities for conducting electronic surveillance against foreign targets while preserving the requirement that the government obtain an individualized FISA court order, based on probable cause, when targeting Americans at home or abroad. The House bill also strongly enhances oversight of the Administration’s surveillance activities. Finally, the House bill does not provide retroactive immunity for telecom companies but allows the courts to determine whether lawsuits should proceed.
Passed March 14, 2008
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The RESTORE Act of 2007 - H.R. 3773
This bill updates the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) to provide meaningful and flexible surveillance tools for the intelligence community, while protecting the constitutional rights of Americans whose communications may be intercepted in the process. In August, Congress enacted a temporary FISA revisions bill (the Protect America Act; PL 110-55), which expireD in February 2008 and was opposed by 181 House Democrats.
Passed November 15, 2007
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Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act - H.R. 5351
This bill will end unnecessary subsidies to Big Oil companies and invest in clean, renewable energy and energy efficiency. It will extend and expand tax incentives for renewable electricity, energy and fuel, as well as for plug-in hybrid cars, and energy efficient homes, buildings, and appliances.
Passed February 27, 2008
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
Read about the President's veto threat>>
S-MINER (Supplemental Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response) Act - H.R. 2768
This bill builds on the MINER Act of 2006 – providing critical mine safety reforms that were unaddressed in the 2006 legislation.
Passed January 16, 2008
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
AMT Relief Act - H.R. 4351, Revised AMT Relief Act - H.R. 4351
This bill gives tax relief to middle-class families, including protecting 23 million middle-class families from the Alternative Minimum Tax in 2007, and includes certain tax extenders, without increasing the national debt. It is paid for by closing certain tax loopholes for the privileged few, including taxing as ordinary income the “carried interest” of private equity firm managers and others.
The revised legislation also gives tax relief to middle-class families, including protecting 23 million middle-class families from the Alternative Minimum Tax in 2007. This version is paid for by closing a loophole to prevent hedge fund managers and others from using offshore tax haven corporations to defer taxes on compensation. It does not include the tax extenders. The President threatened to veto. (Ultimately, the House passed a Senate-passed bill providing protection from the AMT which was not paid for – which the President indicated he would sign.)
Final Version passed December 19, 2007
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
Initial Version of the Energy Independence and Security Act - H.R. 6 The Responsible Redeployment Appropriations Act - H.R. 4156 Veto watch in the news: Responsible Redeployment from Iraq Act - H.R. 2956 The Energy Price Gouging Act – H.R. 1252 Veto watch in the news: Veto watch in the news: Veto watch in the news: D.C. Voting Rights Act – H.R. 1905 Rail and Mass Transit Security Act - H.R. 1401 Veto watch in the news: Veto watch in the news: Employee Free Choice Act - H.R. 800 Requiring Medicare to Negotiate Lower Prescription Drug Prices - H.R. 4 State-Foreign Operations Appropriations - H.R. 2764
HR. 6, the Energy Independence and Security Act, reduces our dependence on foreign oil, reduces global warming, and lowers energy costs for consumers by such steps as raising the CAFÉ standards for the first time in 32 years (to 35 miles per gallon by 2020), providing new energy efficiency standards, making an historic commitment to American-grown biofuels, requiring 15% of our electricity to come from renewable sources, and repealing billions in tax breaks for big oil companies, by a vote of 235-
181. While the Energy Independence and Security Act was signed into law on December 19, the President threatened to veto the initial stronger version of the bill.
Final Version passed December 18, 2007
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The American people continue to demand a New Direction in Iraq. This war – now lasting nearly five years, longer than World War II – has cost Americans too much, in terms of lives, dollars, and our reputation around the world. This legislation will change the direction of President Bush’s failed Iraqi policy: require the President to redeploy our troops, while providing our troops in harm’s way with the resources they need.
Passed November 14, 2007
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
The Homeowners' Defense Act of 2007 - H.R. 3355
This bill is designed to address the growing crisis in the availability and affordability of homeowners’ insurance. The legislation focuses on stabilizing the catastrophe insurance market by expanding private industry’s capacity to cover natural disasters and helping states to better manage risk. Following are highlights of the bill’s provisions.
Passed November 8, 2007
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
The Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) - H.R. 3685
In 30 states, it is currently legal to fire someone simply because of his or her sexual orientation. This bill will prohibit employers, employment agencies and labor unions from using an individual’s sexual orientation as the basis for employment decisions, such as hiring, firing, promotion or compensation. The bill extends federal employment protections to gay, lesbian, and bisexual workers similar to those already provided to a person based on race, religion, sex, national origin, age or disability.
Passed November 7, 2007
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
The Hardrock Mining and Reclamation Act - H.R. 2262
This bill is a long-overdue reform bill that updates the Mining Law of 1872 for the 21st century. For example, it requires hardrock mining companies (which mine for such valuable minerals as gold, silver and copper), for the first time, to pay royalties for their operations on federal lands.
Passed November 1, 2007
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
The Trade and Globalization Assistance Act - H.R. 3920
This legislation would overhaul the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program – expanding opportunities for job training to transition workers into 21st Century jobs to take advantage of increasing globalization.
Passed October 31, 2007
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
The Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act - H.R. 505
Under this bill, Native Hawaiians can establish a "governing entity" that would represent them in negotiations with federal and state governments.
Passed October 24, 2007
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The Free Flow of Information Act of 2007 - H.R. 2102
This bill would provide journalists with a qualified privilege as to sources and information, while at the same time, recognizing the need for effective law enforcement and robust national security. Freedom of the press is fundamental to our democracy and is essential to protecting the public's right to know. Without a federal media shield law to protect the confidential sources of journalists, freedom of the press is threatened.
Passed October 16, 2007
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
The Tax Collection Responsibility Act of 2007 - H.R. 3056
This legislation would repeal the use of private debt collection companies to collect federal income taxes, delay the application of an onerous three percent withholding requirement on government payments, and discourage individuals who renounce their U.S. citizenship to avoid paying taxes.
Passed October 10, 2007
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
The Flood Insurance Reform and Modernization Act of 2007 - H.R. 3121
The bill reauthorizes the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for five years, through FY 2013 (the current authorization for NFIP expires on September 30, 2008). It also provides for reforms to the NFIP, improves flood mapping, and expands the NFIP to provide for multiple peril coverage.
Passed September 27, 2007
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
The Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act - H.R. 2881
This legislation would modernize the nation's aging air traffic control system, dedicating an increase in the aviation fuel taxes to pay for these improvements. It would modernize airports to reduce flight delays, and protect consumers by reducing over-scheduling and improving the system to address complaints.
Passed September 20, 2007
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
Ensuring Military Readiness Through Stability and Predictability Deployment Policy Act - H.R. 3159
This legislation would require active duty forces to be guaranteed that their time at home match the length of their deployment. National Guard and reservists would be home for three times the length of the deployments. The bill would allow the President to waive these requirements to meet the national security needs of the country, and allow Service Chiefs of Staff to allow for the voluntary mobilization of members. These requirements would apply to those serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Passed August 2, 2007
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Read the Administration's statement of opposition>>
This legislation would allow pay discrimination claims to be filed within 180 days of the issuance of a discriminatory paycheck. Most workers are unaware of what their co-workers earn, and many employers even prohibit employees from discussing their pay with each other. That makes it nearly impossible for workers to uncover pay discrimination. The legislation is named after Lilly Ledbetter, whose pay discrimination claim was denied by a 5-4 Supreme Court decision on May 29. The court ruled that since she did not raise a claim with 180 days of the actual decision to discriminate, she could not receive back pay. The Administration claims that this legislation will "serve to impede justice" and that the elimination of the statute of limitations would prevent the expeditious resolution of such cases of discrimination.
Passed July 31, 2007
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Read the Administration's statement of opposition >>
Democrats Will Seek to Reverse Court Decision on Wage Discrimination (CQ) >>
This legislation requires a responsible redeployment of U.S. troops from Iraq beginning within 120 days of enactment and ending by April 1, 2008 and requires the President to publicly justify post-redeployment missions for the U.S. military.
Passed July 12, 2007
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
This legislation will reduce the burden of rising gas prices on American families, providing immediate relief to consumers by giving the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) the authority to investigate and punish those who artificially inflate the price of energy. The Administration is unwilling to admit the benefits of H.R. 1252 for the American public, claiming that “this bill will not alleviate the problem…” and will “result in gasoline price controls and in some cases bring back long gas lines reminiscent of the 1970s.” Despite the Administration’s objections, the Energy Price Gouging Act ensures the federal government has the tools it needs to adequately respond to energy emergencies and prohibit price gouging – with a priority on refineries and big oil companies.
Passed May 24, 2007
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Read the Administration's statement of opposition >>
Veto watch in the news:
"House Passes Price-Gouging Ban; Senate Prepares to Act on Energy Package" (CQ) >>
The No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels (NOPEC) Act - H.R. 2264
This legislation enables the Department of Justice to take legal action against foreign nations for participating in oil cartels that drive up oil prices globally and in the United States. It does so by exempting OPEC and other nations from the provisions of the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act when acting in a commercial capacity; by making clear that the so-called “Act of State” doctrine does not prevent courts from ruling on antitrust charges brought against foreign governments; and by authorizing the Department of Justice to bring lawsuits in U.S. courts against cartel members. The Administration claims that such lawsuits would be ineffective, instead proposing “diplomatic efforts” with cartel members who have remained stalwart and diplomatically immovable for decades.
Passed May 23, 2007
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Read the Administration's statement of opposition >>
"Senate to grapple with OPEC in wake of House bill passage" (The Hill) >>
FY 2008 Homeland Security Authorization - H.R. 1684
This legislation authorizes $39.8 billion in funding for the Department of Homeland Security in fiscal year 2008. Because the President has been submitting budgets that underfunded key homeland security priorities over the last few years, this bill is authorizing $2.1 billion more than the President requested. The Administration “strongly opposes” the legislation, claiming that the bill would “limit executive authority” and includes “provisions that infringe on the President’s constitutional authority over the unitary executive branch.”
Passed May 9, 2007
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Read the Administration's statement of opposition >>
"White House threatens veto of Homeland Security bill over personnel issue" (CQ) >>
Hate Crimes Prevention Act – H.R. 1592
This legislation will provide new resources to help state and local law enforcement agencies prevent and prosecute hate crimes, and closes gaps in current federal hate crimes law. The Administration claims that the legislation is “inconsistent with the proper allocation of criminal enforcement responsibilities” and is “constitutionally questionable.”
Passed May 3, 2007
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Read the Administration's statement of opposition >>
"House Votes to Expand 'Hate Crime' Protections" (NYT) >>
"House Backs Expanded Hate-Crime Law" (WP) >>
This legislation will secure voting rights in the House for the District of Columbia, permanently expanding the U.S. House of Representatives from 435 to 437 seats. This provides a vote to the District of Columbia and a new, at-large seat through the 112th Congress to the state next entitled to increase its congressional representation (which, according to the Census, is Utah). The Administration opposes the legislation on constitutional grounds, citing that the District of Columbia cannot be admitted to the House based in statehood.
Passed April 19, 2007
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Veto watch in the news:
"Utah's hopes for fourth U.S. House seat face a possible filibuster" (Salt Lake Tribune) >>
"House Passes Bill to Give D.C. a Full Congressional Seat" (WP) >>
This legislation is designed to close the security gaps facing rail and mass transit and includes provisions on issues such as training, grants, security planning, research and development, and shipments of sensitive materials. The Administration, however, objected to whistleblower protection for employees of the Departments of Homeland Security and Transportation, stating that such protection would “jeopardize…rail and transportation security,” placing “substantive and procedural limitations…in litigation” over the rights of employees.
Passed March 26, 2007
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Read the Administration's statement of opposition >>
Veto watch in the news:
"Sept. 11 Bill Expected to Advance This Week" (CQ) >>
Presidential Records Act Amendments of 2007 - H.R. 1255
Under the Presidential Records Act, presidential records are supposed to be released to historians and the public 12 years after the end of a presidential administration. In 2001, President George W. Bush issued an executive order which gave current and former presidents and vice presidents broad authority to withhold presidential records or delay their release indefinitely. The Presidential Records Act Amendments of 2007 nullifies the Bush executive order and establishes procedures to ensure the timely release of presidential records. Opposed to a move fostering greater transparency in our nation’s government, the Administration criticized H.R. 1255 as being “counterproductive,” “unnecessary,” and “misguided,” and stated such legislation was an impingement on the President’s constitutional authority.
Passed March 14, 2007
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Read the Administration's statement of opposition >>
"Records in the Open" (WP) >>
Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act of 2007 - H.R. 985
This bill strengthens protections for federal whistleblowers to prevent retaliation against those who report wrongdoing, waste, fraud, or abuse to authorities. The Administration opposes the bill, claiming that expanded whistleblower protections would “increase the number of frivolous complaints and waste resources” and “impede legitimate investigations.”
Passed March 14, 2007
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Read the Administration's statement of opposition >>
"House Passes Open-Government Bills" (WP) >>
Reauthorizing Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund - H.R. 720
The Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund is a vital program for state and local governments that addresses critical water infrastructure needs. This bill authorizes a total of $14 billion for the fund over the next four years, ensures clean water and fosters economic development in local communities by helping pay for building and improving wastewater treatment facilities. To the Administration, however, the “increased project costs” and “new administrative burdens on States” justifies opposition to ensuring a clean water supply for our nation and economic development in our local communities.
Passed March 9, 2007
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Read the Administration's statement of opposition >>
Veto watch in the news:
"House Passes One Water Project Bill; Two More Are on Deck for the Week" (CQ) >>
The Employee Free Choice Act will restore workers’ rights by removing obstacles that prevent workers from choosing whether or not they want to form or join a union. The Administration opposes H.R. 800 on grounds that the bill would impose excessive “penalties for unfair labor practices” made by employers and would “interfere with the ability of workers and employers to bargain freely.”
Passed March 1, 2007
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Read the Administration's statement of opposition >>
Veto watch in the news:
"New, improved unions" (LA Times) >>
This bill repeals the current provision that prohibits the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) from negotiating with drug companies for lower prices for those enrolled in Medicare prescription drug plans and instead requires the Secretary to conduct such negotiations. However, the Administration objects to the bill, stating that government negotiation of drug prices “impedes competition, limits access to life-saving drugs” and “reduces convenience,” with no “substantial savings” to Medicare beneficiaries.
Passed January 12, 2007
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Read the Administration's statement of opposition >>
Veto watch in the news:
"House Passes Medicare Drug Bill" (WP) >>
APPROPRIATIONS BILLS
This bill supports our allies in the campaign against terrorism, including providing over $1 billion in aid to Afghanistan; and promotes stability by strengthening development aid and addressing crises such as the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The President threatened to veto. (The final State-Foreign Operations Appropriations provisions were included in the FY 2008 Omnibus Appropriations bill.)
Passed June 22, 2007
Passed in the FY 2008 Omnibus Appropriations bill December 19, 2007
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition >>
"Democrats Pass Provision for Contraceptives in House Foreign Aid Bill" (WP) >>
Interior-Environment Appropriations - H.R. 2643 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations - H.R. 3074 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations - H.R. 3161 Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations - H.R. 3093 Veto Watch in the News: Financial Services-General Government Appropriations - H.R. 2829 REVERSED VETO THREATS
This legislation fully funds the Clean Water Fund that the President proposed cutting by 37 percent, makes improving our national parks, national wildlife refuges, and national forests a key priority, and boosts basic research on climate change by 53 percent. To the Administration, however, the preservation of our nation’s precious land comes second to living “within the President’s topline” of funding.
Passed June 27, 2007
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Read the Administration's statement of opposition >>
Veto watch in the news:
"White House threatens to Veto Interior, EPA Spending Bill" (Dow Jones) >>
"Spending Hikes Seen for Parks, Interior; House Democrats Boosting Funds for Parks, Environmental Protection" (AP) >>
This legislation addresses the important challenges of keeping our transportation system safe and strong, ensuring that every American has adequate shelter, and doing so in a way that strengthens the economy and is environmentally responsible. The bill invests in the regional transit needs of our nation, and rejects the President's cuts to AMTRAK and programs that provide air service to rural communities.
Final version passed November 14, 2007
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This legislation reinvests in rural America, protects public health, improves nutrition for more Americans, transforms our energy future, supports conservation, invests in research, and strengthens oversight.
Passed August 2, 2007
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This legislation provides local communities with the help they need to keep our streets safe, including funding for programs such as Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS), the Office on Violence Against Women, and the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, and the Drug Enforcement Agency. It also tackles the enormous challenge of Global Climate Change, with $1.86 billion for research and development projects to study the current and long-term effects of global warming, and strategies to address it. However, the Administration claims any amount of spending in excess of the Administration's request, such as an additional $72 million to programs sponsored by the National Science Foundation, is "wasteful and unnecessary spending."
Passed July 26, 2007
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Read the Administration's statement of opposition >>
Veto watch in the news:
"Spending Bills, Farm Law, and Higher Education Dominate a High-Energy Agenda" (CQ) >>
This legislation will address our nation’s energy crisis as well as the reality of global warming. This bill both researches the effects of global warming and works on technologies to slow it down. It also invests in renewable energy programs that reduce greenhouse gasses and help our nation meet its energy needs. The administration claims the appropriated funds, which will allow our nation to take necessary steps in achieving energy independence and reversing global warming, are “irresponsible and excessive.”
Passed July 17, 2007
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Read the Administration's statement of opposition >>
"House Boosts Energy Efficiency Programs" (WP) >>
This legislation contains provisions to spur job creation and economic growth, including restoring the President’s cut in small business loans and investing in greater efforts to expand availability to capital and financial services in rural communities.
Passed June 28, 2007
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
The Neighborhood Stabilization Act - H.R. 5818
The American Housing Rescue and Foreclosure Prevention Act - H.R. 3221
- Provides mortgage refinancing assistance to keep families from losing their homes, protect neighboring home values, and help stabilize the housing market.
- Expands the FHA program so that borrowers in danger of losing their home can refinance into lower-cost government -insured mortgages they can afford to repay. This legislation will help troubled borrowers avoid foreclosure while minimizing taxpayer exposure.
- Protects taxpayers by requiring lenders and homeowners must take responsibility. This is not a bailout; in order to participate, lenders and mortgage investors must take significant losses by reducing the loan principal. In exchange for an FHA guarantee on the mortgage, borrowers must share any profit from the resale of a refinanced home with the government.
- Makes $15 billion in loans and grants to states to acquire foreclosed homes standing empty, to rehabilitate foreclosed property, and to restore home values in neighborhoods hit hard by the crisis. (H.R. 5818)
Passed May 8, 2008
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition to H.R. 5818>>(.pdf)
Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition to H.R. 3221>>(.pdf)
The National Affordable Housing Trust Fund Act of 2007 - H.R. 2895
This legislation establishes a national affordable housing trust fund to build or preserve 1.5 million homes or apartments over the next 10 years, without increasing government spending or the federal deficit. The bill will initially allocate between $800 million and $1 billion annually directly to states and local communities, targeting funds for the construction of affordable housing and for lower income families facing the greatest housing affordability challenges.
Passed October 10, 2007
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition>>
The Emergency Extended Unemployment Compensation Act - H.R. 5749
This legislation immediately provides up to 13 weeks of extended unemployment benefits in every state to workers exhausting the 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits. In states with higher levels of unemployment (six percent or higher), an additional 13 weeks would be available, for a total of 26 weeks of extended benefits.
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Read the Administration's Statement of Opposition (.pdf)>>
Homeland Security Appropriations - H.R. 2638
This legislation funds 3,000 additional Border Patrol agents, provides first responders with the equipment and training they need, and provides tougher aviation and port security. The Administration "strongly opposes H.R. 2638" and calls the allocated funding to protect our country "excessive." The Administration is also "strongly opposed" to a provision which increases aviation security by doubling the screening of cargo on passenger aircrafts.
Passed June 15, 2007
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Read the Administration's statement of opposition >>
Veto watch in the news:
"Homeland security budget bill gets stern White House veto threat" >>