Submitted by Conor Kenny on
Details of a proposed economic stimulus package were revealed this week. It includes rebate checks (of at least $300, with individuals set to receive $600 and couple's $1,600) for most Americans and a series of tax incentives for businesses. While the Senate hasn’t had a chance to really contribute to the conversation, most observers believe the proposal will quickly move forward following President Bush’s State of the Union speech on Monday.
Also on Monday, the Senate will debate a cloture motion on a Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act overhaul bill. Known as the RESTORE Act, the legislation outlines oversight roles for the collection of electronic communications intelligence. Today, the Senate voted down a proposal to increase oversight, tighten restrictions in intelligence collection. A competing measure -- which includes legal immunity for phone companies that helped the federal government spy on Americans without a warrant – is to be debated on Monday. If the cloture motion succeeds, members will continue with a vote on the overall bill, without discussing a number of amendments introduced during debate.
On Wednesday, we saw the culmination of months of congressional feuding when the House failed (for the second time) to override a presidential veto on an expanded State Children's Health Insurance Program. The Senate first passed legislation aimed at increasing the number of children covered by SCHIP more than six months ago, in July. Since that time several versions of the bill have advanced, each offering few benefits and costing less than the one prior.
Funding will now continue at existing levels, and both sides plan to use the issue as an election year cudgel. Republicans are claiming the worsening economy means money should be spent on stimulus, while Democrats argue the economic troubles mean more children will need SCHIP benefits.
Finally, there were two more Congressional retirements announced this week: Reps. Jim Walsh (R-N.Y.) and Dave Weldon (R-Fla.) each confirmed they would not seek reelection this year.
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