Here is a look at what is happening on Capitol Hill...
We will continue to keep you updated.
Food Safety Modernization Act
The Senate passed the Food Safety Modernization Act (S.510), which expands the FDA's ability to regulate food quality and expands FDA powers to inspect food production facilities, with a vote of 73-25.
The bill requires the FDA to inspect high-risk facilities once every 3 years. It also gives the federal government power to force companies to conduct recalls on products that are determined to be "unsafe."
An amendment was passed providing an exemption for small farms and facilities that earn less than $500,000 annually.
Ratification of the Strategic Arms Reduction (START) Treaty with Russia
President Barack Obama's is pushing the Senate to ratify the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty with Russia by the end of the month.
Republican opposition and a crowded legislative calendar could push the ratification of the treaty back to January. Republicans are maintaining that it is important to approve the funding to keep the federal government operating into 2011 and to extend the Bush-era tax cuts for all income tax brackets first.
Extension of the Bush Tax Cuts
Senate Majority leader Harry Reid is planning to hold two votes on tax cuts scheduled for this Saturday despite likely filibusters from Republicans on two Democratic proposals.
Democrats have submitted two proposals that would hold two separate votes to extend the Bush Tax Cuts for middle-class taxpayers and those making up to $1 million.
Republicans stated earlier in the week they will oppose ANY plan Democrats have to raise taxes on anyone.
DREAM ACT VOTE
House Democrat Leaders are trying to schedule a vote on the DREAM ACT next Wednesday. The DREAM ACT would give children who are illegal immigrants a path to citizenship if they go to college or join the military.
During his re-election campaign, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid promised to make passing the DREAM ACT a priority.
Make sure to call your Representatives and Senators this week to tell them VOTE NO to the DREAM ACT!
