Duval County Public Schools Superintendent Ed Pratt-Dannals and leaders of four of the state’s largest school districts Monday called for an investigation into “significant anomalies” with declines on Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test reading scores.
This year, 82 Duval public schools showed a drop in the percentage of students reading at grade level or above. Last year, 65 schools showed drops in the same area.
But the biggest local concern is with decreases in learning gains for fourth- and fifth-graders, and the district’s most struggling students.
In Duval, the number of fourth-graders reading at least at grade level dropped 4 percentage points; fifth-graders saw a 2 percentage point decline. The statewide trend was similar.
The stakes are high because the state uses learning gains to help determine school grades. Those school grades then help determine if students in a failing school should be allowed to transfer to a higher-performing school.
In a district’s lowest-performing schools, reading and math teachers could lose their positions unless at least 65 percent of their students show learning gains over three years.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Do we treat children fairly?
From Wikepedia:
"Age determined by each state; the minimum age is 6 (North Carolina),[2][3] however, only 15 states have set minimum ages,[2] which range from 6 to 12 years. States without statutory minimum ages rely on common law, which means that 7[4] is the minimum age in most states; for federal crimes the age has been set at 10."
From another website:
"In the United States, dozens of 13- and 14-year-old children have been sentenced to life imprisonment with no possibility of parole after being prosecuted as adults. While the United States Supreme Court recently declared that death by execution is unconstitutional for juveniles, young children continue to be sentenced to die in prison with very little scrutiny or review. EJI has documented 73 cases where children 14 years of age or younger have been condemned to death in prison. Almost all of these kids currently lack legal representation and in most of these cases the propriety and constitutionality of their extreme sentences has never been reviewed."
http://www.eji.org/eji/childrenprison/deathinprison
If a child can be held responsible for a crime at age 7 and be tried as an adult for murder at age 14, why can't they legally drink? Why can't they drive? Why can't they vote? Why can't they choose to not attend school?
"Age determined by each state; the minimum age is 6 (North Carolina),[2][3] however, only 15 states have set minimum ages,[2] which range from 6 to 12 years. States without statutory minimum ages rely on common law, which means that 7[4] is the minimum age in most states; for federal crimes the age has been set at 10."
From another website:
"In the United States, dozens of 13- and 14-year-old children have been sentenced to life imprisonment with no possibility of parole after being prosecuted as adults. While the United States Supreme Court recently declared that death by execution is unconstitutional for juveniles, young children continue to be sentenced to die in prison with very little scrutiny or review. EJI has documented 73 cases where children 14 years of age or younger have been condemned to death in prison. Almost all of these kids currently lack legal representation and in most of these cases the propriety and constitutionality of their extreme sentences has never been reviewed."
http://www.eji.org/eji/childrenprison/deathinprison
If a child can be held responsible for a crime at age 7 and be tried as an adult for murder at age 14, why can't they legally drink? Why can't they drive? Why can't they vote? Why can't they choose to not attend school?
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Merit pay arrives for teachers — but some aren't happy
About half of the state's poorest-performing schools are giving bonuses to educators whose hard work has paid off — if, for example, their students' test scores have gone up and their schools' letter grades have improved.
Some of the first rounds of bonuses, which vary in amount from county to county, will be distributed in the coming weeks. A lot of teachers have to wait for the release of school grades later this month and for school districts to finish analyzing data from the recent Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test scores, which arrived about a week ago.
Although merit pay is a contentious issue — teachers are used to being compensated based largely on their years of experience — these new bonuses are a key piece of the Department of Education's latest school-accountability program. Low-achieving schools were told last school year they had to start tying a part of their teachers' pay specifically to their work performance.
Dozens of schools failed to meet the new rule, but the state is giving them a break because of continuing financial woes. Also, district leaders are realizing that negotiating merit pay with local teachers unions can be difficult and time consuming.
Some educators are disappointed that some districts' bonuses are much smaller than others'. For example, teachers in Orange and Polk counties will receive $1,000 and those in Osceola can earn as much as $2,000.
Meanwhile, the Duval County school district is offering bonuses as high as $5,000, according to an informal survey of districts by the Orlando Sentinel.
Some of the first rounds of bonuses, which vary in amount from county to county, will be distributed in the coming weeks. A lot of teachers have to wait for the release of school grades later this month and for school districts to finish analyzing data from the recent Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test scores, which arrived about a week ago.
Although merit pay is a contentious issue — teachers are used to being compensated based largely on their years of experience — these new bonuses are a key piece of the Department of Education's latest school-accountability program. Low-achieving schools were told last school year they had to start tying a part of their teachers' pay specifically to their work performance.
Dozens of schools failed to meet the new rule, but the state is giving them a break because of continuing financial woes. Also, district leaders are realizing that negotiating merit pay with local teachers unions can be difficult and time consuming.
Some educators are disappointed that some districts' bonuses are much smaller than others'. For example, teachers in Orange and Polk counties will receive $1,000 and those in Osceola can earn as much as $2,000.
Meanwhile, the Duval County school district is offering bonuses as high as $5,000, according to an informal survey of districts by the Orlando Sentinel.
Phone Books: An Unnecessary Delivery?
Internet and smartphones have replaced the need for the big yellow book for many, who believe there should be a way to opt out.
That option is already available for the Real White Pages books, which are also an AT&T product. For the last year, the Residential White Pages Consumer Choice Program has only delievered hard copies to those requesting them, letting customers instead use only the internet if they want.
There is a similar option for opting out of the Real Yellow Pages.
You can request to not receive the book by calling 1-866-329-7118 or going to www.yellowpagesoptout.com.
That option is already available for the Real White Pages books, which are also an AT&T product. For the last year, the Residential White Pages Consumer Choice Program has only delievered hard copies to those requesting them, letting customers instead use only the internet if they want.
There is a similar option for opting out of the Real Yellow Pages.
You can request to not receive the book by calling 1-866-329-7118 or going to www.yellowpagesoptout.com.
Synthetic Marijuana Gives Users Legal High
Across the country, demand for a synthetic form of marijuana is soaring. Unlike the real thing, this drug - called spice or K2 - is legal in most states. Now, a handful of lawmakers are taking action. This week Missouri became the sixth state to ban the use of K2.
K2 can be up to 15 times more powerful than marijuana and lead to a disturbing range of symptoms, Lopez said.
"We've seen people with slight tremors to even seizure activity," Lopez said.
Still, K2 is legal in 44 states and easy to get anywhere. The six states banning the drug are Alabama, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana and Missouri. Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey and New York are considering bans.
K2 can be up to 15 times more powerful than marijuana and lead to a disturbing range of symptoms, Lopez said.
"We've seen people with slight tremors to even seizure activity," Lopez said.
Still, K2 is legal in 44 states and easy to get anywhere. The six states banning the drug are Alabama, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana and Missouri. Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey and New York are considering bans.
Illegal immigration cost US $100B, Florida $5.5B
The Federation for American Immigration Reform estimates that illegal immigration costs federal and local taxpayers $113 billion a year.
The group’s report, "Fiscal Burden of Illegal Immigration on U.S. Taxpayers," estimates costs based on an analysis of federal, state and local spending data related to the estimated 13 million illegal aliens and their U.S.-born children in the U.S.
The report also notes that undocumented workers pay about $13 billion a year in taxes, resulting in a net cost to taxpayers of about $100 billion. The $113 billion total translates to $1,117 per household.
Federal spending on illegal aliens amounts to $29 billion, according to the report. That leaves an estimated $84.2 billion for state and local citizens. Of that total, Florida shoulders $5.5 billion in costs.
The group’s report, "Fiscal Burden of Illegal Immigration on U.S. Taxpayers," estimates costs based on an analysis of federal, state and local spending data related to the estimated 13 million illegal aliens and their U.S.-born children in the U.S.
The report also notes that undocumented workers pay about $13 billion a year in taxes, resulting in a net cost to taxpayers of about $100 billion. The $113 billion total translates to $1,117 per household.
Federal spending on illegal aliens amounts to $29 billion, according to the report. That leaves an estimated $84.2 billion for state and local citizens. Of that total, Florida shoulders $5.5 billion in costs.
27,000 Abandoned Gulf Oil Wells May Be Leaking
More than 27,000 abandoned oil and gas wells lurk in the hard rock beneath the Gulf of Mexico, an environmental minefield that has been ignored for decades. No one - not industry, not government - is checking to see if they are leaking, an Associated Press investigation shows.
The oldest of these wells were abandoned in the late 1940s, raising the prospect that many deteriorating sealing jobs are already failing.
The AP investigation uncovered particular concern with 3,500 of the neglected wells - those characterized in federal government records as "temporarily abandoned."
Regulations for temporarily abandoned wells require oil companies to present plans to reuse or permanently plug such wells within a year, but the AP found that the rule is routinely circumvented, and that more than 1,000 wells have lingered in that unfinished condition for more than a decade. About three-quarters of temporarily abandoned wells have been left in that status for more than a year, and many since the 1950s and 1960s - even though sealing procedures for temporary abandonment are not as stringent as those for permanent closures.
With its weak system of enforcement, MMS imposed fines in a relative handful of cases: just $440,000 on seven companies from 2003-2007 for improper plug-and-abandonment work.
The oldest of these wells were abandoned in the late 1940s, raising the prospect that many deteriorating sealing jobs are already failing.
The AP investigation uncovered particular concern with 3,500 of the neglected wells - those characterized in federal government records as "temporarily abandoned."
Regulations for temporarily abandoned wells require oil companies to present plans to reuse or permanently plug such wells within a year, but the AP found that the rule is routinely circumvented, and that more than 1,000 wells have lingered in that unfinished condition for more than a decade. About three-quarters of temporarily abandoned wells have been left in that status for more than a year, and many since the 1950s and 1960s - even though sealing procedures for temporary abandonment are not as stringent as those for permanent closures.
With its weak system of enforcement, MMS imposed fines in a relative handful of cases: just $440,000 on seven companies from 2003-2007 for improper plug-and-abandonment work.
Q&A with Jacksonville City Council president Jack Webb
Both you and Vice President Stephen Joost have said pension reforms must be made. Negotiations are ongoing between the mayor’s office and pension fund trustees. What should be the council’s role in pushing for both sides to come to an agreement?
I think the role of the council is to remain observant of the fact that in the absence of some modification, in 10 years the $250 million that we spend on parks and on everything but police and fire and public safety will be gone, because it will be swallowed up by these increasing pension obligations. So we need to remain mindful of the long-term consequences of not insisting upon pension modifications.
What is the council’s role in helping the city keep the Jacksonville Jaguars?
I think we’ve got to perhaps control the dialogue with respect to the Jaguars. With respect to the Jaguars, we control our own destiny. It ain’t nothing to it but to do it. You sell out, they ain’t going anywhere. And again, that’s got nothing to do with anybody from Los Angeles or St. Louis or anywhere else in the country. … I’m willing to do anything it takes as a leader of the council to facilitate that dialogue.” (Webb said plans to buy two season tickets prior to the start of the season.)
The council recently approved spending money for parking at The Jacksonville Landing and several other projects around downtown are ongoing. What other steps, if any, should the city be taking to improve downtown?
Ultimately the answer is you’ve got to get people living downtown. You get people living downtown, you’ll get people spending downtown. Once you get people spending downtown, you’ll have more businesses and that will further attract more people to downtown. … I know that in the past [gave incentives to] developers to come downtown. I wonder if it might be worth exploring [giving incentives to] purchasers to come downtown.”
I think the role of the council is to remain observant of the fact that in the absence of some modification, in 10 years the $250 million that we spend on parks and on everything but police and fire and public safety will be gone, because it will be swallowed up by these increasing pension obligations. So we need to remain mindful of the long-term consequences of not insisting upon pension modifications.
What is the council’s role in helping the city keep the Jacksonville Jaguars?
I think we’ve got to perhaps control the dialogue with respect to the Jaguars. With respect to the Jaguars, we control our own destiny. It ain’t nothing to it but to do it. You sell out, they ain’t going anywhere. And again, that’s got nothing to do with anybody from Los Angeles or St. Louis or anywhere else in the country. … I’m willing to do anything it takes as a leader of the council to facilitate that dialogue.” (Webb said plans to buy two season tickets prior to the start of the season.)
The council recently approved spending money for parking at The Jacksonville Landing and several other projects around downtown are ongoing. What other steps, if any, should the city be taking to improve downtown?
Ultimately the answer is you’ve got to get people living downtown. You get people living downtown, you’ll get people spending downtown. Once you get people spending downtown, you’ll have more businesses and that will further attract more people to downtown. … I know that in the past [gave incentives to] developers to come downtown. I wonder if it might be worth exploring [giving incentives to] purchasers to come downtown.”
Community Fights Department of Transportation for Land
A Jacksonville group wants to build a community garden on the same land the city Department of Transportation has designated a disaster debris management site.
Jackie Lattimore, president of the East 21st Street Association, said she and the association want to clean up the northside of Jacksonville.
They recently decided their new project would be to build a community garden on a vacant lot on 21st Street between Haines and Bennett streets. "We're really trying to do a lot, because if you look at that community, that community has nothing," said Lattimore.
The Department of Transportation denied the association's request. A spokesperson said the DOT needs the land to put trash and debris in case of an emergency, like a hurricane.
Jackie Lattimore, president of the East 21st Street Association, said she and the association want to clean up the northside of Jacksonville.
They recently decided their new project would be to build a community garden on a vacant lot on 21st Street between Haines and Bennett streets. "We're really trying to do a lot, because if you look at that community, that community has nothing," said Lattimore.
The Department of Transportation denied the association's request. A spokesperson said the DOT needs the land to put trash and debris in case of an emergency, like a hurricane.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Key Vote: Restoration of Emergency Unemployment Compensation Act
Restoration of Emergency Unemployment Compensation Act
- Vote Passed (270-153, 10 Not Voting)
The House approved this bill to further extend eligibility for extended federal unemployment insurance for laid-off workers through November 30. The bill, which would also make these changes retroactive to June 2, now heads to the Senate, where its future is not clear.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted NO
- Vote Passed (270-153, 10 Not Voting)
The House approved this bill to further extend eligibility for extended federal unemployment insurance for laid-off workers through November 30. The bill, which would also make these changes retroactive to June 2, now heads to the Senate, where its future is not clear.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted NO
Key Vote: Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act
Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act
- Vote Passed (237-192, 4 Not Voting)
The House passed the final version of the financial regulation reform legislation. It now awaits Senate approval.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted NO
- Vote Passed (237-192, 4 Not Voting)
The House passed the final version of the financial regulation reform legislation. It now awaits Senate approval.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted NO
Key Vote: Homebuyer Assistance and Improvement Act
Homebuyer Assistance and Improvement Act
- Vote Passed (409-5, 18 Not Voting)
On Tuesday, the House passed this legislation to extend the required closing date for the first-time homebuyer tax credit, allowing individuals who have already entered a contract by April 30 to close on the purchase no later than September 30, 2010. The Senate passed the bill by a voice vote the next day, sending it to the president. The president signed it into law on Friday.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted YES
- Vote Passed (409-5, 18 Not Voting)
On Tuesday, the House passed this legislation to extend the required closing date for the first-time homebuyer tax credit, allowing individuals who have already entered a contract by April 30 to close on the purchase no later than September 30, 2010. The Senate passed the bill by a voice vote the next day, sending it to the president. The president signed it into law on Friday.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted YES
Key Vote: Motion to Invoke Cloture on Reid Amendment; American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010
Motion to Invoke Cloture on Reid Amendment; American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010
- Vote Rejected (58-38, 3 Not Voting)
The Senate once again rejected the motion to end debate on this latest version of a bill to extend several expired tax provisions and unemployment benefits due to concerns about the federal deficit. The bill’s future still remains unclear.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES
Sen. George LeMieux voted NO
- Vote Rejected (58-38, 3 Not Voting)
The Senate once again rejected the motion to end debate on this latest version of a bill to extend several expired tax provisions and unemployment benefits due to concerns about the federal deficit. The bill’s future still remains unclear.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES
Sen. George LeMieux voted NO
Key Vote: Confirmation of Gen. David H. Petraeus to be General
Confirmation of Gen. David H. Petraeus to be General
- Vote Confirmed (99-0)
The Senate unanimously confirmed Gen. Petraeus for reappointment to the grade of general and to be commander of U.S. forces in Afghanistan.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES
- Vote Confirmed (99-0)
The Senate unanimously confirmed Gen. Petraeus for reappointment to the grade of general and to be commander of U.S. forces in Afghanistan.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES
Key Vote: Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act
Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act
- Vote Passed (408-8, 1 Present, 16 Not Voting)
The House approved the conference report to this legislation that would impose new sanctions on companies doing business with Iran, sending it to the White House. The president is expected to sign the bill.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted YES
- Vote Passed (408-8, 1 Present, 16 Not Voting)
The House approved the conference report to this legislation that would impose new sanctions on companies doing business with Iran, sending it to the White House. The president is expected to sign the bill.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted YES
Key Vote: Democracy is Strengthened by Casting Light on Spending in Elections (DISCLOSE) Act
Democracy is Strengthened by Casting Light on Spending in Elections (DISCLOSE) Act
- Vote Passed (219-206, 8 Not Voting)
The House passed this bill that would establish new reporting requirements for corporations, unions and other interest groups for campaign-related activities. The bill now goes to the Senate.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted NO
- Vote Passed (219-206, 8 Not Voting)
The House passed this bill that would establish new reporting requirements for corporations, unions and other interest groups for campaign-related activities. The bill now goes to the Senate.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted NO
Key Vote: Motion to Invoke Cloture on Reid Amendment; American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010
Motion to Invoke Cloture on Reid Amendment; American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010
- Vote Rejected (57-41, 2 Not Voting)
The Senate rejected the motion to end debate on this latest version of a bill to extend several expired tax provisions and unemployment benefits due to concerns about the federal deficit. After failing to agree on how to pay for the bill, Senate Democratic leaders have decided to move on to other legislation, and the bill’s future is unclear.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES
Sen. George LeMieux voted NO
- Vote Rejected (57-41, 2 Not Voting)
The Senate rejected the motion to end debate on this latest version of a bill to extend several expired tax provisions and unemployment benefits due to concerns about the federal deficit. After failing to agree on how to pay for the bill, Senate Democratic leaders have decided to move on to other legislation, and the bill’s future is unclear.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES
Sen. George LeMieux voted NO
Key Vote; Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act
Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act
- Vote Passed (99-0, 1 Not Voting)
On Thursday, the Senate unanimously approved the conference report to this bill that would impose new sanctions on companies doing business with Iran. The House voted on the conference report later that day.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES
- Vote Passed (99-0, 1 Not Voting)
On Thursday, the Senate unanimously approved the conference report to this bill that would impose new sanctions on companies doing business with Iran. The House voted on the conference report later that day.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES
Key Vote; Small Business Lending Fund Act of 2010
Small Business Lending Fund Act of 2010
- Vote Passed (241-182, 9 Not Voting)
The House passed this bill that would establish a $30 billion lending fund administered by the Treasury Department to invest in financial institutions, like community banks, with the intention of expanding the availability of credit to small businesses. The bill now goes to the Senate.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted NO
- Vote Passed (241-182, 9 Not Voting)
The House passed this bill that would establish a $30 billion lending fund administered by the Treasury Department to invest in financial institutions, like community banks, with the intention of expanding the availability of credit to small businesses. The bill now goes to the Senate.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted NO
Key Vote: Motion to Invoke Cloture on Baucus Substitute Amendment; American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010
Motion to Invoke Cloture on Baucus Substitute Amendment; American Workers, State, and Business Relief Act of 2010
- Vote Rejected (56-40, 4 Not Voting)
The Senate rejected the motion to end debate and vote on this $118 billion version of the bill to extend tax cuts and unemployment benefits due to concerns about the federal deficit. The Senate is likely to continue its work on the bill this week.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES
Sen. George LeMieux voted NO
- Vote Rejected (56-40, 4 Not Voting)
The Senate rejected the motion to end debate and vote on this $118 billion version of the bill to extend tax cuts and unemployment benefits due to concerns about the federal deficit. The Senate is likely to continue its work on the bill this week.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES
Sen. George LeMieux voted NO
Key Vote: To broaden access to the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund
To broaden access to the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund
- Vote Passed (410-0, 1 Present, 20 Not Voting)
This legislation would allow the Obama administration to withdraw more money from the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund in order to better respond to the Gulf of Mexico oil accident. The Senate approved the bill the previous day by voice vote, and the president is expected to sign it.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted YES
- Vote Passed (410-0, 1 Present, 20 Not Voting)
This legislation would allow the Obama administration to withdraw more money from the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund in order to better respond to the Gulf of Mexico oil accident. The Senate approved the bill the previous day by voice vote, and the president is expected to sign it.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted YES
Key Vote: FHA Reform Act of 2010
FHA Reform Act of 2010
- Vote Passed (406-4, 21 Not Voting)
The House passed this bill that would allow the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to raise premiums for mortgage insurance, with the intent of boosting its dwindling reserves. The bill now goes to the Senate.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted YES
- Vote Passed (406-4, 21 Not Voting)
The House passed this bill that would allow the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to raise premiums for mortgage insurance, with the intent of boosting its dwindling reserves. The bill now goes to the Senate.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted YES
Key Vote: Motion to Proceed to Resolution; To overturn an EPA finding on greenhouse gas emissions.
Motion to Proceed to Resolution; To overturn an EPA finding on greenhouse gas emissions.
- Vote Rejected (47-53)
The Senate rejected this resolution that would have stripped the EPA of its authority to regulate greenhouse gases.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted NO
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES
- Vote Rejected (47-53)
The Senate rejected this resolution that would have stripped the EPA of its authority to regulate greenhouse gases.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted NO
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES
Key Vote: National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011
National Defense Authorization Act, FY2011
- Vote Passed (229-186, 17 Not Voting)
The House passed this $760 billion bill authorizing defense spending for the upcoming fiscal year. The Senate could take up its version of the bill sometime during the summer.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted NO
- Vote Passed (229-186, 17 Not Voting)
The House passed this $760 billion bill authorizing defense spending for the upcoming fiscal year. The Senate could take up its version of the bill sometime during the summer.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted NO
Key Vote: America COMPETES Reauthorization Act
America COMPETES Reauthorization Act
- Vote Passed (262-150, 20 Not Voting)
This $85.6 billion bill would authorize a variety of science research programs over the next five years. The timetable for Senate action is unclear.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted YES
- Vote Passed (262-150, 20 Not Voting)
This $85.6 billion bill would authorize a variety of science research programs over the next five years. The timetable for Senate action is unclear.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted YES
Key Vote: Repeal Don't Ask Don't Tell
Patrick Murphy of Pennsylvania Amendment; National Defense Authorization Act, FY2011
- Vote Agreed to (234-194, 10 Not Voting)
During the defense authorization bill debate, the House adopted this amendment that would repeal the "don't ask, don't tell" law that prohibits openly gay men and women from serving in the military. The draft of the Senate version of the authorization bill contains a similar provision.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted NO
- Vote Agreed to (234-194, 10 Not Voting)
During the defense authorization bill debate, the House adopted this amendment that would repeal the "don't ask, don't tell" law that prohibits openly gay men and women from serving in the military. The draft of the Senate version of the authorization bill contains a similar provision.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted NO
Key Vote: Supplemental Appropriations Act
Supplemental Appropriations Act
- Vote Passed (67-28, 5 Not Voting)
The Senate passed this $58.8 billion bill providing additional funds for disaster relief and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The House will begin work on its version of the bill after the Memorial Day recess.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES
- Vote Passed (67-28, 5 Not Voting)
The Senate passed this $58.8 billion bill providing additional funds for disaster relief and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The House will begin work on its version of the bill after the Memorial Day recess.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES
Study: Teens' performance, health benefit from later school day
Giving teens 30 extra minutes to start their school day leads to more alertness in class, better moods, less tardiness, and even healthier breakfasts, a small study found.
"The results were stunning. There's no other word to use," said Patricia Moss, academic dean at the Rhode Island boarding school where the study was done. "We didn't think we'd get that much bang for the buck."
Overall, 201 high school students completed sleep habit surveys before and after the nine-week experiment last year. The results were so impressive that the school made the change permanent, Moss said.
Starting times were shifted from 8 to 8:30. All class times were cut 5 to 10 minutes to avoid a longer school day that would interfere with after-school activities. Moss said improvements in student alertness made up for that lost instruction time.
The portion of students reporting at least eight hours of sleep on school nights jumped from about 16% to almost 55%. Reports of daytime sleepiness dropped substantially, from 49% to 20%.
First-period tardies fell by almost half, students reported feeling less depressed or irritated during the day, health center rest visits dropped substantially; and the number of hot breakfasts served more than doubled. Moss said the healthier breakfast probably aided classtime alertness.
"The results were stunning. There's no other word to use," said Patricia Moss, academic dean at the Rhode Island boarding school where the study was done. "We didn't think we'd get that much bang for the buck."
Overall, 201 high school students completed sleep habit surveys before and after the nine-week experiment last year. The results were so impressive that the school made the change permanent, Moss said.
Starting times were shifted from 8 to 8:30. All class times were cut 5 to 10 minutes to avoid a longer school day that would interfere with after-school activities. Moss said improvements in student alertness made up for that lost instruction time.
The portion of students reporting at least eight hours of sleep on school nights jumped from about 16% to almost 55%. Reports of daytime sleepiness dropped substantially, from 49% to 20%.
First-period tardies fell by almost half, students reported feeling less depressed or irritated during the day, health center rest visits dropped substantially; and the number of hot breakfasts served more than doubled. Moss said the healthier breakfast probably aided classtime alertness.
Florida high school graduates foregoing college
High school graduates in Florida are increasingly skipping college.
That's according to a recent report from the state Department of Education.
Researchers found about 35 percent of Florida's 2009 graduates had no plans to attend college, two points above the 33 percent recorded in 2008 and worse than the national average of 30 percent.
Some of the department's survey respondents said they would attend a trade school or enter the military, but most said they had no plans for further education. That's bothersome to officials trying to increase the population of learned, high-wage workers.
That's according to a recent report from the state Department of Education.
Researchers found about 35 percent of Florida's 2009 graduates had no plans to attend college, two points above the 33 percent recorded in 2008 and worse than the national average of 30 percent.
Some of the department's survey respondents said they would attend a trade school or enter the military, but most said they had no plans for further education. That's bothersome to officials trying to increase the population of learned, high-wage workers.
Obama Gives $2 Billion to Solar Plants
The government is handing out nearly $2 billion for new solar plants that President Barack Obama says will create thousands of jobs and increase the use of renewable energy sources.
The two companies that will receive the money from the president's $862 billion economic stimulus are Abengoa Solar, which will build one of the world's largest solar plants in Arizona, creating 1,600 construction jobs; and Abound Solar Manufacturing, which is building plants in Colorado and Indiana. The Obama administration says those projects will create more than 2,000 construction jobs and 1,500 permanent jobs.
The two companies that will receive the money from the president's $862 billion economic stimulus are Abengoa Solar, which will build one of the world's largest solar plants in Arizona, creating 1,600 construction jobs; and Abound Solar Manufacturing, which is building plants in Colorado and Indiana. The Obama administration says those projects will create more than 2,000 construction jobs and 1,500 permanent jobs.
Feds wasted millions in utilities program for poor
A federal program designed to help impoverished families heat and cool their homes wasted more than $100 million paying the electric bills of thousands of applicants who were dead, in prison or living in million-dollar mansions, according to a government investigation.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services spent $5 billion through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program in 2009, doling out money to states with little oversight of the program. Some states don't verify applicants' identifies or income. For example, the program helped pay the electric bill of a woman who lives in a $2 million home in a wealthy Chicago suburb and drives a Mercedes, according to the yet-to-be released report obtained by The Associated Press.
The Government Accountability Office studied the program after a 2007 investigation by Pennsylvania's state auditor found 429 applicants received more than $162,000 using the Social Security numbers of dead people.
The GAO investigated Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Virginia, which represented about one-third of the program's funding in 2009. The agency found improper payments in about 9 percent of households receiving benefits in those states, totaling $116 million.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services spent $5 billion through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program in 2009, doling out money to states with little oversight of the program. Some states don't verify applicants' identifies or income. For example, the program helped pay the electric bill of a woman who lives in a $2 million home in a wealthy Chicago suburb and drives a Mercedes, according to the yet-to-be released report obtained by The Associated Press.
The Government Accountability Office studied the program after a 2007 investigation by Pennsylvania's state auditor found 429 applicants received more than $162,000 using the Social Security numbers of dead people.
The GAO investigated Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Virginia, which represented about one-third of the program's funding in 2009. The agency found improper payments in about 9 percent of households receiving benefits in those states, totaling $116 million.
Obama Signs Into Law Tighter Sanctions on Iran
President Obama on Thursday signed into law new unilateral American sanctions on Iran that go beyond the penalties imposed by the United Nations last month as he tries to escalate the pressure on Tehran to halt its nuclear enrichment program.
The new law, passed by Congress on overwhelmingly bipartisan votes last week, tries to further restrict investment in Iran’s energy sector and cut off financing for the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps that oversees nuclear and missile programs. It also cracks down on federal contractors that do business with Iran.
“With these sanctions, along with others, we are striking at the heart of the Iranian government’s ability to fund and develop its nuclear program,” Mr. Obama said at a bill-signing ceremony in the East Room. “We’re showing the Iranian government that its actions have consequences. And if it persists, the pressure will continue to mount, and its isolation will continue to deepen.”
A New York Times analysis in March found that the federal government had awarded more than $107 billion in contract payments, grants and other benefits over the past decade to foreign and multinational American companies while they were doing business in Iran. That included $15 billion paid to companies that defied American sanctions by making large investments that helped Iran develop its vast oil and gas reserves.
The new law, passed by Congress on overwhelmingly bipartisan votes last week, tries to further restrict investment in Iran’s energy sector and cut off financing for the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps that oversees nuclear and missile programs. It also cracks down on federal contractors that do business with Iran.
“With these sanctions, along with others, we are striking at the heart of the Iranian government’s ability to fund and develop its nuclear program,” Mr. Obama said at a bill-signing ceremony in the East Room. “We’re showing the Iranian government that its actions have consequences. And if it persists, the pressure will continue to mount, and its isolation will continue to deepen.”
A New York Times analysis in March found that the federal government had awarded more than $107 billion in contract payments, grants and other benefits over the past decade to foreign and multinational American companies while they were doing business in Iran. That included $15 billion paid to companies that defied American sanctions by making large investments that helped Iran develop its vast oil and gas reserves.
California to Compensate Jaycee Dugard With $20 Million
The state of California approved a $20 million payment today to kidnap victim Jaycee Dugard for failing to properly supervise the registered sex offender who held her captive for 18 years.
California legislators today overwhelmingly approved the negotiated settlement the state and Dugard. The allocation was part of a larger Assembly bill, labeled only as "claims against the state; payment."
Though there were three other claims in the same bill, the total sum was $21.1 million, giving the lion's share to Dugard, now 30 and the mother of two daughters she bore while in captivity.
The state's Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation came under fire in the weeks and months after Dugard's rescue in August 2009 for not properly supervising Phillip Garrido, a registered sex offender who was on parole.
A scathing investigation last year by the California Office of the Inspector General found Garrido's state parole officers had missed numerous opportunities to locate and rescue Dugard and her children from their backyard prison.
As late as 2006, police were called to the house to investigate reports that Garrido had children living with him. Even then, Dugard and her children were never found. During parole checks, Garridos house was inspected, but officers never checked the backyard.
California legislators today overwhelmingly approved the negotiated settlement the state and Dugard. The allocation was part of a larger Assembly bill, labeled only as "claims against the state; payment."
Though there were three other claims in the same bill, the total sum was $21.1 million, giving the lion's share to Dugard, now 30 and the mother of two daughters she bore while in captivity.
The state's Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation came under fire in the weeks and months after Dugard's rescue in August 2009 for not properly supervising Phillip Garrido, a registered sex offender who was on parole.
A scathing investigation last year by the California Office of the Inspector General found Garrido's state parole officers had missed numerous opportunities to locate and rescue Dugard and her children from their backyard prison.
As late as 2006, police were called to the house to investigate reports that Garrido had children living with him. Even then, Dugard and her children were never found. During parole checks, Garridos house was inspected, but officers never checked the backyard.
CDC: Florida second among states with most uninsured Read more: CDC: Florida second among states with most uninsured - Jacksonville Business Journal
Florida ranked second in the nation for the number of residents lacking health insurance in 2009, according to a survey by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.
The National Health Interview survey found that 19.3 percent of Floridians had no health coverage at the time of the survey, compared to a 15.4 percent national average. Only Texas was higher, at 24.6 percent.
Since most people over the age of 65 years are on Medicare, the number of people in the market for insurance, but lacking it, was actually worse. The CDC reported that 23.2 percent of residents under the age of 65 were uninsured, compared to the 17.5 percent national average. Again, only Texas was worse.
Florida’s rate of uninsured kids wasn’t as bad, at 13.1 percent, but it was still far below the national average of 8.2 percent and the third-worst in the nation. With so many children covered by public programs, less than half of Florida’s children had private health insurance.
While the CDC survey did not break down the demographics by state, it gave a glimpse at the type of people who would be pressed into buying coverage. More than half of unemployed people lacked health coverage, compared with 18 percent of those employed.
Married people were much less likely to be uninsured (12.6 percent) than those who were divorced (21.1 percent), never married (28 percent) or living with a partner (32.4 percent).
Nearly one-third of people who did not finish high school (32.9 percent) were uninsured.
Hispanic/Latino residents had the most need for health coverage, with 31.2 percent lacking insurance, followed by 17.3 percent of blacks, 14.3 percent of Asians and 11.1 percent of whites.
The National Health Interview survey found that 19.3 percent of Floridians had no health coverage at the time of the survey, compared to a 15.4 percent national average. Only Texas was higher, at 24.6 percent.
Since most people over the age of 65 years are on Medicare, the number of people in the market for insurance, but lacking it, was actually worse. The CDC reported that 23.2 percent of residents under the age of 65 were uninsured, compared to the 17.5 percent national average. Again, only Texas was worse.
Florida’s rate of uninsured kids wasn’t as bad, at 13.1 percent, but it was still far below the national average of 8.2 percent and the third-worst in the nation. With so many children covered by public programs, less than half of Florida’s children had private health insurance.
While the CDC survey did not break down the demographics by state, it gave a glimpse at the type of people who would be pressed into buying coverage. More than half of unemployed people lacked health coverage, compared with 18 percent of those employed.
Married people were much less likely to be uninsured (12.6 percent) than those who were divorced (21.1 percent), never married (28 percent) or living with a partner (32.4 percent).
Nearly one-third of people who did not finish high school (32.9 percent) were uninsured.
Hispanic/Latino residents had the most need for health coverage, with 31.2 percent lacking insurance, followed by 17.3 percent of blacks, 14.3 percent of Asians and 11.1 percent of whites.
Jacksonville tells nonprofits not to expect funding increase
Jacksonville city funding for public service grants has been on the decline the last six years and is now less than a quarter of what it was in 2004-05. Below is a look at the funding the last 10 years.
2000-01: $7.2 million
2001-02: $7.8 million
2002-03: $8.9 million
2003-04: $9.8 million
2004-05: $11 million
2005-06: $9.5 million
2006-07: $8.9 million
2007-08: $5.5 million
2008-09: $2.5 million
2009-10: $2.4 million
2010-11*: $2.4 million
By Matt Galnor
2000-01: $7.2 million
2001-02: $7.8 million
2002-03: $8.9 million
2003-04: $9.8 million
2004-05: $11 million
2005-06: $9.5 million
2006-07: $8.9 million
2007-08: $5.5 million
2008-09: $2.5 million
2009-10: $2.4 million
2010-11*: $2.4 million
By Matt Galnor
Prescription Drugs Killing More Than Illicit Drugs in Florida
Seven people per day died because of prescription drugs in Florida in 2009, and the state's top law enforcement agency wants to get the number down.
The Florida Medical Examiners Commission Report on Drugs Identified in Deceased Persons was released today, citing the factors involved in the 171,300 deaths in Florida in 2009.
Nearly 9,000 of those decedents had one or more of the targeted drugs in their systems at the time of death.
Alcohol, benzodiazepines (including Xanax), oxycodone and cocaine were the predominant drugs found in people's systems, and oxycodone, all benzodiazepines (with Alprazolam, also known as Xanax, accounting for the majority of the deaths), methadone, alcohol, cocaine, morphine and hydrocodone caused the most deaths, according to the report.
Heroin continues to be the most lethal drug by percentage, though deaths caused by heroin decreased 20 percent over 2008.
The Florida Medical Examiners Commission Report on Drugs Identified in Deceased Persons was released today, citing the factors involved in the 171,300 deaths in Florida in 2009.
Nearly 9,000 of those decedents had one or more of the targeted drugs in their systems at the time of death.
Alcohol, benzodiazepines (including Xanax), oxycodone and cocaine were the predominant drugs found in people's systems, and oxycodone, all benzodiazepines (with Alprazolam, also known as Xanax, accounting for the majority of the deaths), methadone, alcohol, cocaine, morphine and hydrocodone caused the most deaths, according to the report.
Heroin continues to be the most lethal drug by percentage, though deaths caused by heroin decreased 20 percent over 2008.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Study: Charter school students' performance average
A study of middle school students in charter schools in 15 states has found that they generally performed no better in math and reading than other public school students.
Students in charter schools in urban areas were an exception; they did better in math than their public-school peers, and charter-school students were generally more satisfied with their schools, said the study, done by Mathematica Policy Research Inc. and released Wednesday. But the outcome — that charter-school students generally didn't do better academically than other students — is sure to be disappointing to education officials seeking new ways to improve student achievement.
Students in charter schools in urban areas were an exception; they did better in math than their public-school peers, and charter-school students were generally more satisfied with their schools, said the study, done by Mathematica Policy Research Inc. and released Wednesday. But the outcome — that charter-school students generally didn't do better academically than other students — is sure to be disappointing to education officials seeking new ways to improve student achievement.
Obesity numbers rise in 28 states
The number of obese Americans is steadily climbing, with obesity rates rising in 28 states in the past year.
According to a report released Tuesday titled "F as in Fat: How Obesity Threatens America's Future 2010," 38 states have obesity rates of more than 25 percent, and almost one-third of American children are considered obese.
Obesity is defined by body mass index (BMI), a measurement that relates a person's weight to height. For adults, a BMI of 30 or above is considered obese. The definition varies for children according to age and sex, but a child is considered obese in the 95th percentile on the BMI chart.
According to a report released Tuesday titled "F as in Fat: How Obesity Threatens America's Future 2010," 38 states have obesity rates of more than 25 percent, and almost one-third of American children are considered obese.
Obesity is defined by body mass index (BMI), a measurement that relates a person's weight to height. For adults, a BMI of 30 or above is considered obese. The definition varies for children according to age and sex, but a child is considered obese in the 95th percentile on the BMI chart.
Fla. receives low marks for education spending
Florida was below the national average for education spending per student, according to a new U.S. Census Bureau report.
The state spent $9,035 per student during the 2007-08 school year, 12 percent lower than the national average of $10,259.
The Duval County School District spent $8,653 per student, 4 percent below the state figure.
Of the money Florida spent on its students, 39.4 percent came from state revenue, while 52.3 percent came from local taxes and 8.3 percent came from the federal government.
Of Duval County's spending on students, 46.7 percent came from state revenue, 44.8 came from local taxes and 8.6 percent came from the federal government.
Nationally, on average, 48.3 percent of funding comes from state revenue, while 36.6 come from local sources and 8.1 percent is provided by the federal government.
New York spent the most on each elementary, middle and high school student, at $17,173, while Utah spent the least, at $5,765.
The numbers come from the Census Bureau’s Public Education Finances 2008 report, released Monday, which catalogs education spending and sources of revenue.
The state spent $9,035 per student during the 2007-08 school year, 12 percent lower than the national average of $10,259.
The Duval County School District spent $8,653 per student, 4 percent below the state figure.
Of the money Florida spent on its students, 39.4 percent came from state revenue, while 52.3 percent came from local taxes and 8.3 percent came from the federal government.
Of Duval County's spending on students, 46.7 percent came from state revenue, 44.8 came from local taxes and 8.6 percent came from the federal government.
Nationally, on average, 48.3 percent of funding comes from state revenue, while 36.6 come from local sources and 8.1 percent is provided by the federal government.
New York spent the most on each elementary, middle and high school student, at $17,173, while Utah spent the least, at $5,765.
The numbers come from the Census Bureau’s Public Education Finances 2008 report, released Monday, which catalogs education spending and sources of revenue.
Reduced cost, recidivism in redirection for Florida youthful offenders
Called “redirection,” it consists mostly of family therapy and focuses on parents — an emphasis that’s nearly impossible to attain when youth are locked up at residential commitment centers. It does not accept youth who have committed violent or first-degree felonies.
Redirection has saved the state $51 million and youth that go through it are less likely to re-offend than those who go to commitment centers, according to a recent report from the state Legislature’s Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability. Yet the program receives just a fraction of the funding spent on incarceration of youth at commitment centers — and spending on it is unlikely to increase any time soon.
About 95 percent of the work is focused on parents, said Matthew Birt, program director for the White Foundation. And the therapists travel to their home on evenings or weekends so that work hours and transportation are not barriers.
So then why does the state spend $11.5 million on redirection programs but about $242 million overall on secure and non-secure residential corrections?
Redirection has saved the state $51 million and youth that go through it are less likely to re-offend than those who go to commitment centers, according to a recent report from the state Legislature’s Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability. Yet the program receives just a fraction of the funding spent on incarceration of youth at commitment centers — and spending on it is unlikely to increase any time soon.
About 95 percent of the work is focused on parents, said Matthew Birt, program director for the White Foundation. And the therapists travel to their home on evenings or weekends so that work hours and transportation are not barriers.
So then why does the state spend $11.5 million on redirection programs but about $242 million overall on secure and non-secure residential corrections?
Florida Wins $11.5M Food Stamp Bonus
Florida's food stamp program has been named the nation's most accurate in paying benefits for the second year in a row, earning an $11.5 million bonus from the federal government.
The Florida Department of Children and Families on Monday also announced its program has been rated the most improved in a separate category -- handing benefit denials and closures. Two years ago, Florida was most improved in payment accuracy.
Florida's award is the largest ever given to a state since the U.S. Department of Agriculture started the bonus program in 2003.
Florida's program is the nation's fourth largest, providing more than $4 billion in benefits to more than 3.5 million people last year.
The Florida Department of Children and Families on Monday also announced its program has been rated the most improved in a separate category -- handing benefit denials and closures. Two years ago, Florida was most improved in payment accuracy.
Florida's award is the largest ever given to a state since the U.S. Department of Agriculture started the bonus program in 2003.
Florida's program is the nation's fourth largest, providing more than $4 billion in benefits to more than 3.5 million people last year.
First Phase Of Repainting On San Jose Will Cost $300,000
Phase one alone, which is poles from Interstate 295 to Haley Road, will cost $300,000.
Crews are pulling out one pole at a time, taking them to a facility on the Northside and repainting them black.
At roughly $15,000 a pole, FDOT expects to spend more than $1 million to repaint all the poles scattered around town with the same peeling problem.
Phase one is expected to be finished by the fall. Then, FDOT hopes to start phase two repainting poles along San Jose North to Old St. Augustine.
Crews are pulling out one pole at a time, taking them to a facility on the Northside and repainting them black.
At roughly $15,000 a pole, FDOT expects to spend more than $1 million to repaint all the poles scattered around town with the same peeling problem.
Phase one is expected to be finished by the fall. Then, FDOT hopes to start phase two repainting poles along San Jose North to Old St. Augustine.
E.P.A. Lags on Setting Some Air Standards, Report Finds
The Environmental Protection Agency is 10 years behind schedule in setting guidelines for a host of toxic air pollutants, according to a report from the agency’s inspector general.
The report, which was released last week, found that the agency had failed to develop emissions standards, due in 2000, for some sources of hazardous air pollutants. These included smaller sites often located in urban areas, like dry cleaners and gas stations, but also some chemical manufacturers.
The inspector general also found that the agency had not met targets outlined in a 1999 planning document, the Integrated Urban Air Toxics Strategy, including tracking urban dwellers’ risk of developing health problems from exposure to pollutants.
Some experts said the failures were persisting largely because the E.P.A.’s Office of Air and Radiation, which is responsible for regulating air pollutants, lacked the money needed to meet its deadlines.
The report, which was released last week, found that the agency had failed to develop emissions standards, due in 2000, for some sources of hazardous air pollutants. These included smaller sites often located in urban areas, like dry cleaners and gas stations, but also some chemical manufacturers.
The inspector general also found that the agency had not met targets outlined in a 1999 planning document, the Integrated Urban Air Toxics Strategy, including tracking urban dwellers’ risk of developing health problems from exposure to pollutants.
Some experts said the failures were persisting largely because the E.P.A.’s Office of Air and Radiation, which is responsible for regulating air pollutants, lacked the money needed to meet its deadlines.
Supreme Court Affirms Right to Keep Handguns in Home
A narrowly divided Supreme Court today ruled that the Second Amendment's right to bear arms is applicable to all states and municipalities. The ruling will most likely overturn Chicago's strict ban on handguns.
"It is clear that the framers and ratifiers of the Fourteenth Amendment counted the right to keep and bear arms among those fundamental rights necessary to our system of ordered liberty," wrote Justice Samuel Alito for the five-four majority.
In 2008, the Court issued a landmark decision in the case District of Columbia v. Heller that established for the first time an individual's constitutional right to have a gun in his house, striking down Washington D.C.'s, strict handgun ban. The ruling, however, applied only to federal enclaves.
Today's ruling applies to states and cities, such as Chicago, that have similar bans.
But Alito was also careful to note that in some instances the right to bear arms can be limited.
"It is important to keep in mind that Heller, while striking down a law that prohibited the possession of handguns in the home, recognized that the right to keep and bear arms is not a right to keep and carry any weapon whatsoever in any manner whatsoever and for whatever purpose," he wrote.
"We made it clear in Heller that our holding did not cast doubt on such longstanding regulatory measures as prohibitions on the possession of firearms by felons and the mentally ill, laws forbidding the carrying of firearms in sensitive places such as schools and government buildings or laws imposing conditions and qualifications on the commercial sale of arms."
"It is clear that the framers and ratifiers of the Fourteenth Amendment counted the right to keep and bear arms among those fundamental rights necessary to our system of ordered liberty," wrote Justice Samuel Alito for the five-four majority.
In 2008, the Court issued a landmark decision in the case District of Columbia v. Heller that established for the first time an individual's constitutional right to have a gun in his house, striking down Washington D.C.'s, strict handgun ban. The ruling, however, applied only to federal enclaves.
Today's ruling applies to states and cities, such as Chicago, that have similar bans.
But Alito was also careful to note that in some instances the right to bear arms can be limited.
"It is important to keep in mind that Heller, while striking down a law that prohibited the possession of handguns in the home, recognized that the right to keep and bear arms is not a right to keep and carry any weapon whatsoever in any manner whatsoever and for whatever purpose," he wrote.
"We made it clear in Heller that our holding did not cast doubt on such longstanding regulatory measures as prohibitions on the possession of firearms by felons and the mentally ill, laws forbidding the carrying of firearms in sensitive places such as schools and government buildings or laws imposing conditions and qualifications on the commercial sale of arms."
BP shares fall; lost market value tops $100 bln
BP shares fell nearly 4 percent in New York Friday. If the decline holds, BP will have lost more than $100 billion in market value since a rig it operated exploded in the Gulf of Mexico.
Earlier, the company said the cost of responding to the Gulf oil leak has risen to $2.35 billion. The escalating costs, plus potential legal liabilities and BP's continuing struggles to contain the leak — now estimated at between 1.5 million and 2.5 million gallons per day — have eroded investor confidence.
BP's shares closed at $60.48 on April 20, the day of the rig blast. On Friday, they dipped as low as $27.07 and traded at $27.69 around midday. At that price, BP shares have lost $102.63 billion in value since April 20 and $12.74 billion this week alone.
Earlier, the company said the cost of responding to the Gulf oil leak has risen to $2.35 billion. The escalating costs, plus potential legal liabilities and BP's continuing struggles to contain the leak — now estimated at between 1.5 million and 2.5 million gallons per day — have eroded investor confidence.
BP's shares closed at $60.48 on April 20, the day of the rig blast. On Friday, they dipped as low as $27.07 and traded at $27.69 around midday. At that price, BP shares have lost $102.63 billion in value since April 20 and $12.74 billion this week alone.
Justices Limit Use of ‘Honest Services’ Law Against Fraud
The Supreme Court on Thursday significantly narrowed the scope of a law often used by federal prosecutors in corruption cases and called into question the fraud convictions of Jeffrey K. Skilling, a former chief executive of Enron, and Conrad M. Black, a newspaper executive convicted of defrauding his media company.
The justices were unanimous in calling a broad interpretation of the law, which makes it a crime “to deprive another of the intangible right of honest services,” unconstitutionally vague.
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who wrote the majority decisions in both the Skilling and Black cases, said the law must be limited to the offenses of bribes and kickbacks. She was joined by Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and Justices John Paul Stevens, Stephen G. Breyer, Samuel A. Alito Jr. and Sonia Sotomayor.
Prosecutors had charged Mr. Skilling with manipulating the financial results of Enron, the collapsed energy company, and misleading investors about them. That may be a crime, Justice Ginsburg wrote, but it is not a violation of the honest-services law.
“The government did not, at any time, allege that Skilling solicited or accepted side payments from a third party for making these misrepresentations,” she wrote. “It is therefore clear that, as we read” the law, “Skilling did not commit honest-services fraud.”
The justices were unanimous in calling a broad interpretation of the law, which makes it a crime “to deprive another of the intangible right of honest services,” unconstitutionally vague.
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who wrote the majority decisions in both the Skilling and Black cases, said the law must be limited to the offenses of bribes and kickbacks. She was joined by Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and Justices John Paul Stevens, Stephen G. Breyer, Samuel A. Alito Jr. and Sonia Sotomayor.
Prosecutors had charged Mr. Skilling with manipulating the financial results of Enron, the collapsed energy company, and misleading investors about them. That may be a crime, Justice Ginsburg wrote, but it is not a violation of the honest-services law.
“The government did not, at any time, allege that Skilling solicited or accepted side payments from a third party for making these misrepresentations,” she wrote. “It is therefore clear that, as we read” the law, “Skilling did not commit honest-services fraud.”
News / Metro * Comment * Email * Print * Blog This * * Follow Metro River health rates high on new Jacksonville City Coun
Jack Webb said his year as Jacksonville City Council president will focus on the health of the St. Johns River, fiscal reform and revising the city charter.
Webb said signs that an algae bloom was forming in the river and recent fish kills should worry all Jacksonville residents. The government should be encouraging water conservation, environmentally friendly landscaping and low-impact development, he said.
“If we value our quality of life and the economic prosperity that the river provides to us, we must each do our part to preserve its health,” Webb said.
Webb said signs that an algae bloom was forming in the river and recent fish kills should worry all Jacksonville residents. The government should be encouraging water conservation, environmentally friendly landscaping and low-impact development, he said.
“If we value our quality of life and the economic prosperity that the river provides to us, we must each do our part to preserve its health,” Webb said.
Treasury sends $418M to hard-hit Florida
Florida is in line to receive $418 million of a $1.5 billion federal fund designed to tackle foreclosures in some of the nation’s “hardest hit” areas.
The money, issued to state housing finance agencies, is designed to support local initiatives to assist struggling homeowners in affected states as part of the first round of funding available under this new program, according to the U.S. Treasury Department.
The money, issued to state housing finance agencies, is designed to support local initiatives to assist struggling homeowners in affected states as part of the first round of funding available under this new program, according to the U.S. Treasury Department.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Medians, Public Buidlings and Parks Will Have Grass Mowed Less Often This Summer
summer parks will be cut every two weeks instead of weekly.
Buildings and medians will be maintained every three weeks instead of twice a month.
It is all expected to save $800,000 this year and almost $2 million next year.
Buildings and medians will be maintained every three weeks instead of twice a month.
It is all expected to save $800,000 this year and almost $2 million next year.
American Medical Assoc.: Insurers file 1 in 5 claims inaccurately
One in five medical claims is processed inaccurately by commercial health insurers, often leaving physicians shortchanged, according to the nation's largest doctor's group.
The American Medical Association released its third annual report card on insurers Monday.
In past years, Medicare performed well in how quickly and accurately it paid doctors, but the AMA did not release Medicare's data Monday to keep the focus on commercial insurers. Those private insurance companies matched their payments to what they agreed to pay doctors about 80% of the time.
The AMA report card is an effort to reduce the cost of claims processing for doctors. As much as $210 billion is spent annually just to process insurance claims.
The American Medical Association released its third annual report card on insurers Monday.
In past years, Medicare performed well in how quickly and accurately it paid doctors, but the AMA did not release Medicare's data Monday to keep the focus on commercial insurers. Those private insurance companies matched their payments to what they agreed to pay doctors about 80% of the time.
The AMA report card is an effort to reduce the cost of claims processing for doctors. As much as $210 billion is spent annually just to process insurance claims.
In U.S., 15 percent lack health insurance: survey
The survey by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed a stable pattern over recent years of Americans without health insurance -- numbers used as the basis for battles over healthcare and health insurance reform.
The CDC's National Center for Health Statistics said in its report that 15.4 percent of Americans lacked health insurance in 2009, compared to 14.7 percent in 2008.
The survey found that 46.3 million people had no health insurance in 2009, a bit up from 43.8 million in 2008. This included more than 6 million children under 18.
The CDC's National Center for Health Statistics said in its report that 15.4 percent of Americans lacked health insurance in 2009, compared to 14.7 percent in 2008.
The survey found that 46.3 million people had no health insurance in 2009, a bit up from 43.8 million in 2008. This included more than 6 million children under 18.
BP Agrees to Put $20 Billion in Escrow Account for People Affected by Oil Spill, White House Says
BP today pledged to put $20 billion in an escrow account to compensate people affected by the Gulf coast oil spill, a White House official told ABC News.
The fund will be run by lawyer Kenneth Feinberg, who also oversees salary limits for companies getting federal bailout money.
This is the first time the president has met with any BP executives since the spill began on April 20, after an explosion at the Deepwater Horizon offshore oil rig.
The fund will be run by lawyer Kenneth Feinberg, who also oversees salary limits for companies getting federal bailout money.
This is the first time the president has met with any BP executives since the spill began on April 20, after an explosion at the Deepwater Horizon offshore oil rig.
White House Requests $15 Million for Oil Spill Commission
The White House is asking Congress for $15 million to pay for the presidential commission that will investigate the BP oil spill.
President Barack Obama made the request in a letter Wednesday to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
Obama has insisted that BP pay all costs associated with the spill, and the company agreed to a $20 billion victims' compensation fund on Wednesday. But there are a few costs that taxpayers will have to bear and paying for the operations of the commission is one of them.
The co-chairs of the commission are former Florida Sen. Bob Graham and former Environmental Protection Agency head William K. Reilly. Obama has given them six months to look into everything from the causes of the spill to the safety of offshore drilling.
President Barack Obama made the request in a letter Wednesday to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
Obama has insisted that BP pay all costs associated with the spill, and the company agreed to a $20 billion victims' compensation fund on Wednesday. But there are a few costs that taxpayers will have to bear and paying for the operations of the commission is one of them.
The co-chairs of the commission are former Florida Sen. Bob Graham and former Environmental Protection Agency head William K. Reilly. Obama has given them six months to look into everything from the causes of the spill to the safety of offshore drilling.
Study: Millions of cancer survivors put off care
Millions of cancer survivors have put off getting medical care because they couldn't afford it, according to a new study.
All together, more than 2 million of 12 million U.S. adult cancer survivors did not get one or more needed medical services, the researchers estimate.
The study is being called the first to estimate how often current and former patients have skipped getting care because of money worries. It was led by Kathryn Weaver, a researcher at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, N.C.
About 8% of the cancer survivors in the survey said they had put off medical care. The survey didn't ask what kinds of care they didn't get — or if it was related to their cancer, Weaver said.
All together, more than 2 million of 12 million U.S. adult cancer survivors did not get one or more needed medical services, the researchers estimate.
The study is being called the first to estimate how often current and former patients have skipped getting care because of money worries. It was led by Kathryn Weaver, a researcher at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, N.C.
About 8% of the cancer survivors in the survey said they had put off medical care. The survey didn't ask what kinds of care they didn't get — or if it was related to their cancer, Weaver said.
Duval Schools Waive FCAT Requirement This Year
When students left school for the last time last week, they had their report cards with them, but not another score used to determine what grade they will report to in the fall.
FCAT scores have been delayed, and Duval County requires 11th graders to pass the science portion of the state test to be promoted to 12th grade.
That requirement only applies in Duval County, and is not a state requirement, so today the school board waived it.
FCAT scores have been delayed, and Duval County requires 11th graders to pass the science portion of the state test to be promoted to 12th grade.
That requirement only applies in Duval County, and is not a state requirement, so today the school board waived it.
News / Metro * Comment * Email * Print * Blog This * * Follow Metro Housing audit leaves Jacksonville on the hook for $2.
Jacksonville's Housing and Neighborhoods Department is paying $2.7 million back to the federal government because a housing program was mismanaged, according to documents reviewed by The Times-Union.
A little known 2008 audit said that the Home Investment Partnerships Program, administered by Housing and Neighborhoods, provided money for the purchase and renovation of two affordable housing complexes - Ashley Tower Apartments and Magnolia Point Apartments. Those complexes ended up in foreclosure and did not complete key requirements of the program.
The Home program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and provides money to local governments or nonprofits with the aim of buying or rehabilitating affordable housing. The city is repaying HUD by taking lesser annual Home allocations over a three-year period.
The audit found that because the two complexes entered foreclosure, they did not provide affordable housing for the length of time required by the program. As a result, the audit said, the city should have stepped in and purchased the properties to allow them to continue providing affordable housing.
City housing officials disagreed.
Wight Greger, director of the city's Housing and Neighborhoods Department, told HUD that the city was not in a financial position to buy and operate the housing complexes.
She said that HUD's own rules do not require a city to purchase a foreclosed property, which sold at a foreclosure sale for $700,000, but say that it "may use purchase options."
A little known 2008 audit said that the Home Investment Partnerships Program, administered by Housing and Neighborhoods, provided money for the purchase and renovation of two affordable housing complexes - Ashley Tower Apartments and Magnolia Point Apartments. Those complexes ended up in foreclosure and did not complete key requirements of the program.
The Home program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and provides money to local governments or nonprofits with the aim of buying or rehabilitating affordable housing. The city is repaying HUD by taking lesser annual Home allocations over a three-year period.
The audit found that because the two complexes entered foreclosure, they did not provide affordable housing for the length of time required by the program. As a result, the audit said, the city should have stepped in and purchased the properties to allow them to continue providing affordable housing.
City housing officials disagreed.
Wight Greger, director of the city's Housing and Neighborhoods Department, told HUD that the city was not in a financial position to buy and operate the housing complexes.
She said that HUD's own rules do not require a city to purchase a foreclosed property, which sold at a foreclosure sale for $700,000, but say that it "may use purchase options."
Florida road fatalities hit low in 2009
State officials said Monday that there were 1.3 deaths per every 100 million miles driven in Florida in 2009. While there were 2,563 deaths on Florida roadways last year, that is also almost a thousand fewer highway fatalities than the state recorded in 2005. The number of highway deaths has declined every year since 2005 when there were 1.77 deaths per every 100 million miles driven in the state.
Gov. Charlie Crist vetoes anti-abortion measure requiring ultrasound
Gov. Charlie Crist today vetoed a highly controversial bill that would have required women seeking abortions to pay for ultrasounds before undergoing the procedure, saying it would "violate a woman's right to privacy."
The veto sparked a firestorm of criticism from the Republican legislators, members of the governor's former party, who accused him of abandoning principle for political gain.
Crist, though, said that while people hold strong opinions on abortion, "personal views should not result in laws that unwisely expand the role of government and coerce people to obtain medical tests or procedures that are not medically necessary."
"This bill presents an inappropriate burden on women seeking to terminate a pregnancy," the governor wrote in his veto message, likely his final one as governor.
The bill (HB1143), which passed along party lines in the closing days of the spring legislative session, would have required ultrasounds before first-trimester abortions, when more than 90 percent of abortions occur. The state already requires ultrasounds before second- and third-trimester abortions.
Women would have had to view images of the ultrasound and hear a description of the fetus unless they signed a refusal form. Women who became pregnant from rape, incest, human trafficking or domestic violence would have had show proof they fit the criteria before being able to opt out of the ultrasound requirement.
A 2008 legislative survey found that of Florida's 62 licensed abortion clinics, 51 already require ultrasounds before first-trimester abortions.
There were 95,586 abortions performed in Florida in 2006, with 86,938 of those happening in the first trimester.
The veto sparked a firestorm of criticism from the Republican legislators, members of the governor's former party, who accused him of abandoning principle for political gain.
Crist, though, said that while people hold strong opinions on abortion, "personal views should not result in laws that unwisely expand the role of government and coerce people to obtain medical tests or procedures that are not medically necessary."
"This bill presents an inappropriate burden on women seeking to terminate a pregnancy," the governor wrote in his veto message, likely his final one as governor.
The bill (HB1143), which passed along party lines in the closing days of the spring legislative session, would have required ultrasounds before first-trimester abortions, when more than 90 percent of abortions occur. The state already requires ultrasounds before second- and third-trimester abortions.
Women would have had to view images of the ultrasound and hear a description of the fetus unless they signed a refusal form. Women who became pregnant from rape, incest, human trafficking or domestic violence would have had show proof they fit the criteria before being able to opt out of the ultrasound requirement.
A 2008 legislative survey found that of Florida's 62 licensed abortion clinics, 51 already require ultrasounds before first-trimester abortions.
There were 95,586 abortions performed in Florida in 2006, with 86,938 of those happening in the first trimester.
Charitable giving falls 3.6 percent in U.S. in 2009
Charitable giving fell by 3.6 percent last year as Americans continued to struggle with the recession, though some philanthropic experts feared the decrease could have been much worse given the economic downturn, according to an authoritative annual survey released Wednesday.
Americans donated $303.75 billion during 2009, the second-worst year since 1956, when the Giving USA Foundation started conducting its surveys. The worst year was 1974, when giving fell an inflation-adjusted 5.5 percent. However, 2009 also was the third straight year when giving reached more than $300 billion.
Americans donated $303.75 billion during 2009, the second-worst year since 1956, when the Giving USA Foundation started conducting its surveys. The worst year was 1974, when giving fell an inflation-adjusted 5.5 percent. However, 2009 also was the third straight year when giving reached more than $300 billion.
Obama Pledges New Aid to Palestinians
President Obama urged the Israeli government to loosen its blockade of Gaza on Wednesday, as the United States continued to scramble to find a way out of the stalemate in the Middle East and address the outcry over Israel’s deadly raid on a Gaza-bound flotilla last week.
Mr. Obama, meeting with the Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas, at the White House, also promised a $400 million aid package for the West Bank and Gaza, though only about $70 million represented a new commitment. White House officials said the money would be spent on housing, schools, efforts to provide access to drinking water and other health and infrastructure projects.
Mr. Obama, meeting with the Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas, at the White House, also promised a $400 million aid package for the West Bank and Gaza, though only about $70 million represented a new commitment. White House officials said the money would be spent on housing, schools, efforts to provide access to drinking water and other health and infrastructure projects.
Jacksonville City Council Approves Landing Parking Expansion
The Jacksonville City Council unanimously approved a $3.5 million grant for additional parking at The Jacksonville Landing, but the ordinance won't go into effect without the mayor's approval.
After a third reading, the Jacksonville City Council voted 17-0 and approved $3.5 million to go to Jacksonville Landing Investments, LLC, to bring more parking to the downtown venue.
After a third reading, the Jacksonville City Council voted 17-0 and approved $3.5 million to go to Jacksonville Landing Investments, LLC, to bring more parking to the downtown venue.
Court rejects privacy of texter in narrow ruling
In its first decision addressing the evolving intersection of communication technologies and workplace etiquette, the Supreme Court ruled Thursday that text messages sent by a police officer on department equipment cannot be kept secret from his superiors.
But the court ruled narrowly in the unanimous decision, and questions remain regarding whether employers can stop their workers in all cases from sending personal messages using company equipment.
"A broad holding concerning employees privacy expectations vis-a-vis employer-provided technological equipment might have implications for future cases that cannot be predicted," Justice Anthony M. Kennedy wrote in the court's opinion. "It is preferable to dispose of this case on narrower grounds."
The ruling essentially maintains the status quo of allowing employers to implement policies preventing employees from using company communication equipment for personal use.
But the court ruled narrowly in the unanimous decision, and questions remain regarding whether employers can stop their workers in all cases from sending personal messages using company equipment.
"A broad holding concerning employees privacy expectations vis-a-vis employer-provided technological equipment might have implications for future cases that cannot be predicted," Justice Anthony M. Kennedy wrote in the court's opinion. "It is preferable to dispose of this case on narrower grounds."
The ruling essentially maintains the status quo of allowing employers to implement policies preventing employees from using company communication equipment for personal use.
Fla. state universities get added tuition increase
The Board of Governors on Friday approved requests from Florida's 11 state universities for an additional 7 percent tuition increase for the coming academic year.
The action by the board's Budget and Finance Committee brings the total increase for the next academic year to 15 percent, the maximum allowed under state law. The legislature has already approved an 8 percent tuition increase for the coming academic year.
The increase also brings tuition at Florida's state universities closer to the national average. Residential tuition at Florida's state universities averaged $4,382 during the 2009-2010 academic year, compared to the national average of $7,020.
The action by the board's Budget and Finance Committee brings the total increase for the next academic year to 15 percent, the maximum allowed under state law. The legislature has already approved an 8 percent tuition increase for the coming academic year.
The increase also brings tuition at Florida's state universities closer to the national average. Residential tuition at Florida's state universities averaged $4,382 during the 2009-2010 academic year, compared to the national average of $7,020.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Florida Gov. Crist signs pain clinic reform legislation
A bill that will strengthen regulation of Florida's pain management clinics was signed into law Friday.
Gov. Charlie Crist approved the bill, which will prevent felons from owning the clinics, limit anyone paying cash for the prescription narcotics to a 72-hour supply, ban advertisements for specific treatments like the opiate oxycodone and require specific training for doctors to practice pain management.
There are currently about 50 registered pain clinics in Jacksonville. The new regulations will go into effect Oct. 1.
Gov. Charlie Crist approved the bill, which will prevent felons from owning the clinics, limit anyone paying cash for the prescription narcotics to a 72-hour supply, ban advertisements for specific treatments like the opiate oxycodone and require specific training for doctors to practice pain management.
There are currently about 50 registered pain clinics in Jacksonville. The new regulations will go into effect Oct. 1.
City Says It's Only For Employees With Health Issues, Will Cost City $350,000 A Year
The city of Jacksonville plans to start a new wellness program where any employee with certain proven health problems can receive free personal training.
The training will run eight to 16 weeks and can be extended for another eight weeks. It will be for employees with high blood pressure, high cholesterol and morbid obesity.
The city will contribute $350,000 to fund the program and it also will be paid for partly with $150,000 from the city's insurance provider.
"I think the current budget situation makes it an even more appropriate time to do something...If we can invest a little bit of money and instead of spending 55 to 60 million dollars on health care in two years, we're spending 45 million. How many police officers and firefighters have we put back on the street," said Humasn Resources Director Chad Poppell.
The training will run eight to 16 weeks and can be extended for another eight weeks. It will be for employees with high blood pressure, high cholesterol and morbid obesity.
The city will contribute $350,000 to fund the program and it also will be paid for partly with $150,000 from the city's insurance provider.
"I think the current budget situation makes it an even more appropriate time to do something...If we can invest a little bit of money and instead of spending 55 to 60 million dollars on health care in two years, we're spending 45 million. How many police officers and firefighters have we put back on the street," said Humasn Resources Director Chad Poppell.
CDC: 1 in 5 high school students abuse prescription drugs
A new report shows one in five high school students have taken a prescription drug that they didn't get from a doctor.
The abused drugs include pain pills and attention deficit drugs used as study aids.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study found that the drug use was most common among 12th graders. White students took the drugs more than blacks or Hispanics.
The abused drugs include pain pills and attention deficit drugs used as study aids.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study found that the drug use was most common among 12th graders. White students took the drugs more than blacks or Hispanics.
Cleanup Costs and Lawsuits Rattle BP’s Investors
BP shareholders are fleeing the company’s stock amid growing uncertainty about the ultimate bill for cleanup costs, lawsuits, fines and damage to the oil giant’s reputation.
BP’s shares fell an additional 15 percent on Tuesday, as investors reacted to news that the latest effort to stem the gushing oil in the Gulf of Mexico failed over the weekend. It is the steepest drop in shares in about two decades.
Since the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig exploded April 20, the company has lost a third of its market value, or about $75 billion.
The company said Tuesday that it had spent almost $1 billion on cleanup efforts. But that bill is likely to rise as oil continues to spill into the gulf, with no guarantees that any of the new plans to contain the spill will work.
BP’s shares fell an additional 15 percent on Tuesday, as investors reacted to news that the latest effort to stem the gushing oil in the Gulf of Mexico failed over the weekend. It is the steepest drop in shares in about two decades.
Since the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig exploded April 20, the company has lost a third of its market value, or about $75 billion.
The company said Tuesday that it had spent almost $1 billion on cleanup efforts. But that bill is likely to rise as oil continues to spill into the gulf, with no guarantees that any of the new plans to contain the spill will work.
Supreme Court: Speak up to shut up with Miranda right
As police grilled him about a 2000 fatal shooting in Michigan, Van Chester Thompkins remained virtually silent for nearly three hours until one of the officers asked him about God.
"Do you pray to God to forgive you for shooting that boy down?" the officer asked Thompkins, according to court documents.
Thompkins' answer was unequivocal: "Yes."
Prosecutors used that single incriminating statement against Thompkins, who was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison. He subsequently argued that his silence throughout the interrogation should have indicated to police that he was invoking his Miranda rights against self-incrimination.
The court shot down Thompkins' argument in a narrow ruling Tuesday that essentially said simply remaining silent is far different from invoking the Miranda rights to remain silent.
"Thompkins did not invoke his right to remain silent and stop the questioning," Justice Anthony M. Kennedy wrote in the majority opinion. "The police, moreover, were not required to obtain a waiver of Thompkins' right to remain silent before interrogating him."
Justice Kennedy, a frequent swing vote on the court, was joined in his opinion by the four members of the court's conservative wing — Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and Justices Samuel A. Alito Jr., Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas.
Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote in a blistering dissent that the high court's decision is at odds with precedents in other Miranda cases that put the burden on prosecutors to prove that defendants have waived their rights. She wrote that the ruling also creates an odd paradox for criminal suspects.
"Criminal suspects must now unambiguously invoke their right to remain silent — which, counterintuitively, requires them to speak," she wrote. "At the same time, suspects will be legally presumed to have waived their rights even if they have given no clear expression of their intent to do so."
Justice Sotomayor's dissent was joined by the other three members of the court's liberal wing — Justices Stephen G. Breyer, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and John Paul Stevens.
"Do you pray to God to forgive you for shooting that boy down?" the officer asked Thompkins, according to court documents.
Thompkins' answer was unequivocal: "Yes."
Prosecutors used that single incriminating statement against Thompkins, who was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison. He subsequently argued that his silence throughout the interrogation should have indicated to police that he was invoking his Miranda rights against self-incrimination.
The court shot down Thompkins' argument in a narrow ruling Tuesday that essentially said simply remaining silent is far different from invoking the Miranda rights to remain silent.
"Thompkins did not invoke his right to remain silent and stop the questioning," Justice Anthony M. Kennedy wrote in the majority opinion. "The police, moreover, were not required to obtain a waiver of Thompkins' right to remain silent before interrogating him."
Justice Kennedy, a frequent swing vote on the court, was joined in his opinion by the four members of the court's conservative wing — Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and Justices Samuel A. Alito Jr., Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas.
Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote in a blistering dissent that the high court's decision is at odds with precedents in other Miranda cases that put the burden on prosecutors to prove that defendants have waived their rights. She wrote that the ruling also creates an odd paradox for criminal suspects.
"Criminal suspects must now unambiguously invoke their right to remain silent — which, counterintuitively, requires them to speak," she wrote. "At the same time, suspects will be legally presumed to have waived their rights even if they have given no clear expression of their intent to do so."
Justice Sotomayor's dissent was joined by the other three members of the court's liberal wing — Justices Stephen G. Breyer, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and John Paul Stevens.
Jacksonville offers amnesty program for property owners with liens
Jacksonville property owners who have accumulated thousands of dollars in liens could see all forgiven under an amnesty program approved by the City Council.
The 90-day summer program would apply only to property with administrative liens, or fines for not meeting building standards.
More than 2,400 single- and multi-family homes in the city are accruing daily fines for things such as faulty roofs, holes in walls or other types of structural damage.
In total, the unpaid fines amount to $162 million.
The program will roll out in the coming months, but details are still being finalized and applications are not yet available. In a nutshell, property owners who have liens older than six months could have the total amount forgiven as long as they prove they have fixed all their problems.
Some of the fines are as much as $250 a day and date back five years or longer. They often go unpaid while the ignored repairs lead to blight, city leaders say.
The city tried a similar amnesty program in 2006-07, forgiving up to 75 percent of administrative liens. About 90 people paid the $25 fee to apply to the program but not all received amnesty.
Some of the property owners realized they had other types of fines, such as nuisance liens, that weren’t eligible for the program. Others didn’t have the money to pay their 25 percent share of the fine.
In all, the city forgave about $270,000 worth of fines under the old program. The $90,000 that was collected was used for the Housing and Neighborhoods department’s property rehabilitation programs.
Councilwoman E. Denise Lee said the amnesty bill and others are the result of a series of meetings she’s held with city agencies, the Sheriff’s Office and the School Board to address issues of blight and crime in her district.
Lee said the additional revenue will help the city pay to clean up those sites, which many times accumulate litter, are burglarized or are used for illegal activity.
“I was adamantly against it, but the proof is there,” she said. “We have all of the facts that we don’t have the money, but if we lifted the exemption, that would help.”
The 90-day summer program would apply only to property with administrative liens, or fines for not meeting building standards.
More than 2,400 single- and multi-family homes in the city are accruing daily fines for things such as faulty roofs, holes in walls or other types of structural damage.
In total, the unpaid fines amount to $162 million.
The program will roll out in the coming months, but details are still being finalized and applications are not yet available. In a nutshell, property owners who have liens older than six months could have the total amount forgiven as long as they prove they have fixed all their problems.
Some of the fines are as much as $250 a day and date back five years or longer. They often go unpaid while the ignored repairs lead to blight, city leaders say.
The city tried a similar amnesty program in 2006-07, forgiving up to 75 percent of administrative liens. About 90 people paid the $25 fee to apply to the program but not all received amnesty.
Some of the property owners realized they had other types of fines, such as nuisance liens, that weren’t eligible for the program. Others didn’t have the money to pay their 25 percent share of the fine.
In all, the city forgave about $270,000 worth of fines under the old program. The $90,000 that was collected was used for the Housing and Neighborhoods department’s property rehabilitation programs.
Councilwoman E. Denise Lee said the amnesty bill and others are the result of a series of meetings she’s held with city agencies, the Sheriff’s Office and the School Board to address issues of blight and crime in her district.
Lee said the additional revenue will help the city pay to clean up those sites, which many times accumulate litter, are burglarized or are used for illegal activity.
“I was adamantly against it, but the proof is there,” she said. “We have all of the facts that we don’t have the money, but if we lifted the exemption, that would help.”
Crist signs distressed condominium bill, vetoes CDD taxing option Read more: Crist signs distressed condominium bill, vetoes CDD taxing option - Jack
As expected, Gov. Charlie Crist signed the Distressed Condominium Relief Act into law late Tuesday, broadening the powers of community associations when it comes to delinquent unit owners while making it easier for lenders to make bulk sales on foreclosed units.
Sen. Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey, co-authored Senate Bill 1196, which had just four dissenters in the Florida House when it was passed last April. It was designed as a give-and-take between lenders of distressed condo properties and the associations that run them, allowing a bulk buyer to not carry the liabilities normally assigned to a developer, while creating avenues for community associations to suspend access to common areas for unit owners and tenants delinquent in assessments.
The law will go into effect July 1.
Among the nearly 20 bills Crist acted upon Tuesday, seven of them were vetoes, including House Bill 7203, which would have allowed community development districts without qualified electors — found mostly in primarily commercial CDDs — to levy an optional tax of up to 1 percent on all commercial rental transactions.
Sen. Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey, co-authored Senate Bill 1196, which had just four dissenters in the Florida House when it was passed last April. It was designed as a give-and-take between lenders of distressed condo properties and the associations that run them, allowing a bulk buyer to not carry the liabilities normally assigned to a developer, while creating avenues for community associations to suspend access to common areas for unit owners and tenants delinquent in assessments.
The law will go into effect July 1.
Among the nearly 20 bills Crist acted upon Tuesday, seven of them were vetoes, including House Bill 7203, which would have allowed community development districts without qualified electors — found mostly in primarily commercial CDDs — to levy an optional tax of up to 1 percent on all commercial rental transactions.
Floridians among worst drivers in U.S.
The 2010 GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test survey found that about 20 percent of licensed drivers – roughly 38 million Americans – would not pass a written drivers' exam if taken today.
Florida drivers ranked 41st, with a score of 75.2 percent. While that was up from 43rd in 2009, Florida's 2010 pass-fail rate fell dramatically from 2008, when it ranked 28th with a score of 78.6 percent.
The national average score slipped to 76.2 percent from 76.6 percent in 2009. Of the 5,202 drivers surveyed, 85 percent incorrectly answered a question about what to do when approaching a steady yellow traffic light, and many were wrong when asked to identify safe following distances.
Florida drivers ranked 41st, with a score of 75.2 percent. While that was up from 43rd in 2009, Florida's 2010 pass-fail rate fell dramatically from 2008, when it ranked 28th with a score of 78.6 percent.
The national average score slipped to 76.2 percent from 76.6 percent in 2009. Of the 5,202 drivers surveyed, 85 percent incorrectly answered a question about what to do when approaching a steady yellow traffic light, and many were wrong when asked to identify safe following distances.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Key Vote: America COMPETES Reauthorization Act
Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass; America COMPETES Reauthorization Act - Vote Failed (261-148, 22 Not Voting)
The House fell short of the 273 votes needed under suspension rules to pass this bill that would reauthorize science research programs. Republicans argue too many of the $48 billion bill’s programs are duplicative while Democrats argue the bill will increase economic competitiveness.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted NO......send e-mail or see bio
The House fell short of the 273 votes needed under suspension rules to pass this bill that would reauthorize science research programs. Republicans argue too many of the $48 billion bill’s programs are duplicative while Democrats argue the bill will increase economic competitiveness.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted NO......send e-mail
Key Vote: Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2009
Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act - Vote Passed (59-39, 2 Not Voting)
The Senate passed this bill that would overhaul the nation's financial regulatory system. The bill must now be reconciled with the House version.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
Sen. George LeMieux voted NO......send e-mail or see bio
The Senate passed this bill that would overhaul the nation's financial regulatory system. The bill must now be reconciled with the House version.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES......send e-mail
Sen. George LeMieux voted NO......send e-mail
Smoker Wins $8 Million Verdict
A Connecticut smoker who developed larynx cancer has won $8 million in a lawsuit against a tobacco company, the first such jury verdict in New England, her attorney said Thursday.
David Golub, attorney for Barbara Izzarelli of Norwich, said Thursday a federal jury in Bridgeport made the award late Wednesday against R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. after a two-week trial. He said a judge will decide additional punitive damages next month, which could bring the award to $24 million.
Izzarelli, who is 49 and smoked Salem cigarettes for more than 25 years, underwent surgery at 36 that resulted in the removal of her larynx. She must breath through a hole in her throat and has no sense of smell, and can only eat soft foods, Golub said.
"I'm ecstatic," Izzarelli said. "Now maybe I can go to any doctor I wish."
In February, a judge in Florida reduced $300 million in damages awarded to a smoker against Philip Morris USA to nearly $39 million, concluding a jury was moved by emotion rather than hard evidence. The $300 million had been the highest damage award among thousands of lawsuits filed by Florida smokers against tobacco companies.
The lawsuits were filed after the Florida Supreme Court in 2006 threw out a $145 billion class-action jury award for all Florida smokers, by far the highest punitive damage award in U.S. history. The court said each smoker's case had to be decided individually, but smoker's don't have to individually prove key findings of the original jury, that tobacco companies knowingly sold dangerous products and hid smoking risks from the public.
"Barbara Izzarelli was targeted by Reynolds when she was 12 years old with a product specifically designed to addict her," Golub said.
Howard denied the company targets youths. He said cigarettes have come with warnings since the 1960s.
The jury found Izzarelli's damages totaled nearly $14 million, but ruled that both Reynolds and Izzarelli bore responsibility for her smoking injuries. The jury allocated responsibility 58 percent to Reynolds and 42 percent to Izzarelli, reducing her award from $13.9 million to $8.0765 million.
Crist Signs FL Bong Ban
Gov. Charlie Crist has signed bills banning bong sales, cracking down on rogue debt collectors and helping lure baseball teams to Florida for spring training.
Another bill Crist signed Thursday would give a tax break to out-of-state aircraft owners who bring planes to Florida for training or maintenance.
The sale of bongs, water pipes and other devices that can be used with illegal drugs as well as tobacco will be banned except at stores that mostly sell tobacco products.
New regulations will make it easier for the state to pursue consumer complaints against abusive debt collectors.
The spring training bill will expand a state incentive program for Florida communities trying to lure teams from Arizona.
Feds grant $1.3M for Cecil lake repairs
The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration has awarded Jacksonville $1.32 million in federal funding to repair Lake Fretwell.
The investment will fund repairs and expansion of Lake Fretwell, an existing storm water retention facility located at the former Cecil Field Naval Air Station. The storm water retention lake was damaged by flooding from Tropical Storm Fay in 2008.
The improvements to the lake will allow a major expansion of Cecil Commercial Park to create future jobs and attract private investment. The project will also protect residential neighborhoods downstream, prevent roadway and property flooding damage such as occurred in 2008, and stop further erosion of the lake’s levy.
New Law Signed by Governor Charlie Crist Bans Sex Offenders from Parks, Playgrounds, and Schools
A new law bans sex offenders from going within 300 feet of parks and schools, and from loitering in areas where children play.
The law also says those offenders cannot dress up like Santa Clause or the Easter Bunny - both costumes that could allow easy access to children.
The former law addressed only nighttime residency for offenders, not where they could spend their days.
UNF buys ADT building for $17.3M
The University of North Florida has acquired the ADT Security Services building near campus for $17.3 million, according to public records.
ADT has a lease on the building through 2021, according to The Spinnaker, but future plans the university is considering after the lease ends include a hotel, expanding the continuing education program or moving administrative offices.
ADT has a lease on the building through 2021, according to The Spinnaker, but future plans the university is considering after the lease ends include a hotel, expanding the continuing education program or moving administrative offices.
Jack Webb wins 10-9 vote for Jacks
At the end of the day, the election came down to the wire: 10 council members voting for Webb; nine for Joost.
After losing the battle for the presidency, Joost was challenged by Bill Bishop for the vice president position. Joost won on an 11-8 vote.
The following council members voted for Webb and Bishop: Webb, Bishop, John Crescimbeni, Ronnie Fussell, Daniel Davis, Clay Yarborough, Glorious Johnson and E. Denise Lee.
Voting for Joost both times were Joost, Clark, Art Graham, Art Shad, Kevin Hyde, Michael Corrigan, Reggie Brown, Johnny Gaffney and Warren Jones.
Don Redman and Ray Holt voted Webb for president and Joost for vice president.
Millions in Fines at Jacksonville Public Library
It's a staggering stat: unpaid library fines in Jacksonville total $13.2 million. In just the first seven months of this fiscal year, fines total more than $2.1 million.
For First Time, More US Troops in Afghanistan than Iraq
For the first time ever, the number of U.S. forces in Afghanistan is larger than the number of American forces in Iraq. Pentagon figures show that there are now 94,000 U.S. forces serving in Afghanistan and 92,000 serving in Iraq.
The crossover point for American force levels in both countries was expected to take place this Summer as the Obama administration surges 30,000 more troops into Afghanistan this year and draws down the number of forces in Iraq.
The drawdown plan in Iraq calls for reducing the number of American forces to 50,000 by September 1, a move that will require a major logistical effort over the next three months.
FCAT anxiety: Can students handle even tougher tests?
Now, Florida high-school students must pass the reading and math sections of the 10th-grade FCAT to graduate. Most seniors who have the credits and grade-point average do manage to pass FCAT. And the number of students who miss out on a diploma solely because of FCAT has dropped in recent years. Last year, more than 151,000 seniors earned diplomas, while about 4,700 failed to because of low FCAT scores.
But thousands of students do have to take the exam several times, particularly to pass reading. In the class of 2010, 43 percent of the students failed the reading FCAT the first time they took it.
Students who struggle repeatedly on FCAT can use the state's test-waiver option, substituting acceptable scores on the two national college-admission exams, ACT or SAT, for a passing score on Florida's test. And an increasing number of Florida students have used that waiver in recent years.
But thousands of students do have to take the exam several times, particularly to pass reading. In the class of 2010, 43 percent of the students failed the reading FCAT the first time they took it.
Students who struggle repeatedly on FCAT can use the state's test-waiver option, substituting acceptable scores on the two national college-admission exams, ACT or SAT, for a passing score on Florida's test. And an increasing number of Florida students have used that waiver in recent years.
White House: Oil Spill Isn't Our Katrina
White House press secretary Robert Gibbs told Bob Schieffer Sunday that the United States government is doing "everything humanly and technologically possible" to stop the oil leak in the Gulf - despite criticism that it has left too much responsibility to oil company BP and needs to do more.
"The Coast Guard was on the scene moments after the rig exploded in April, Gibbs said on CBS' "Face the Nation." "It certainly has been weeks, and the government is doing everything humanly and technologically possible to plug the hole 5,000 feet below the ocean, and to do everything we can to contain its spread and to deal with its environmental and its economic impacts.
"The president has told the team to spare nothing in trying to cap this well," he said, later adding: "Every bit of government has been activated to try to plug this hole."
"I don't think anybody could credibly say … that the government has 'stood around, done nothing and hoped for the best,'" Gibbs said. "We were activated the moment that this oil rig exploded. This has been on the president's agenda ever since that happened."
Asked Schieffer: "Do you think this could be your administration's Katrina?"
"If you look back at what happened in Katrina, the government wasn't there to respond to what was happening," Gibbs replied. "That quite frankly was the problem. Even tracking the hurricane for days and knowing fairly precisely where it was going to hit.
"I think the difference in this case is we were there immediately. We have been there ever since."
"The Coast Guard was on the scene moments after the rig exploded in April, Gibbs said on CBS' "Face the Nation." "It certainly has been weeks, and the government is doing everything humanly and technologically possible to plug the hole 5,000 feet below the ocean, and to do everything we can to contain its spread and to deal with its environmental and its economic impacts.
"The president has told the team to spare nothing in trying to cap this well," he said, later adding: "Every bit of government has been activated to try to plug this hole."
"I don't think anybody could credibly say … that the government has 'stood around, done nothing and hoped for the best,'" Gibbs said. "We were activated the moment that this oil rig exploded. This has been on the president's agenda ever since that happened."
Asked Schieffer: "Do you think this could be your administration's Katrina?"
"If you look back at what happened in Katrina, the government wasn't there to respond to what was happening," Gibbs replied. "That quite frankly was the problem. Even tracking the hurricane for days and knowing fairly precisely where it was going to hit.
"I think the difference in this case is we were there immediately. We have been there ever since."
Teachers unions contracts available online
The Duval Teachers United collective bargaining agreement with the school district is available online at the web site of Teachers Rules, Roles and Rights. So are contracts for more than 100 teachers' unions for various large districts throughout the country.
Here's the link for Duval's contract: http://www.nctq.org/contracts/15-07.pdf
Or you can visit http://www.nctq.org/tr3/home.jsp to search for other contracts.
Peyton to use $5.6 million in reserves to balance the current budget
Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton received the City Council’s blessing to use $5.6 million in reserves to balance the current fiscal year’s budget.
The city faces a $22 million deficit, mainly because of lower-than-projected revenue from the state and because unions haven’t approved salary cuts. Roughly $9.5 million in reserves was already built into the budget but that still leaves a $12.5 million gap.
Mickey Miller, the city’s director of finance, told council members Thursday that the deficit will be addressed through a three-pronged approach: about $2 million in budget cuts, $5 million that will be recovered from excess risk management premiums the city paid, and the rest from reserves.
Council President Richard Clark said he approves of tapping into the operating reserves account, which has about a $37 million balance.
A separate emergency reserve fund has roughly $44 million. That fund is not being touched.
Peyton already has announced he will cut library hours, let nearly an entire firefighter recruit class go, and cut 14 more jobs from various departments.
He also wants to remove fire engines from two stations. However, to avoid another union fight, he will ask the council to sign off on that plan before it is implemented.
Clark said he will support the mayor’s fire department cuts. He said reserves should be tapped as a last resort and encouraged the mayor to seek additional cuts in expenses, including more layoffs if possible.
Councilwoman E. Denise Lee had a much different stance. She said she would rather see the city use more reserves if it could keep people from losing work during this recession.Oil Spill Won't Hurt National Economy: Report
As big as the Gulf of Mexico oil slick is, it won't have a major impact on the national economy, according to a new report by Moody's Economy.com.
The oil spill caused by the explosion of the Deepwater Horizon oil rig last month is hurting businesses in areas of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida -- but those places represent only 1 percent of the gross domestic product and national employment "so broad macroeconomic effects are unlikely, at least in the near term," the report said.
BP, the owner of the oil well where the rig was based, has said it has spent $350 million in cleanup costs so far. Exxon spent a total of roughly 11 times that much on its cleanup of the infamous Exxon Valdez oil spill of 1989.
The oil spill caused by the explosion of the Deepwater Horizon oil rig last month is hurting businesses in areas of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida -- but those places represent only 1 percent of the gross domestic product and national employment "so broad macroeconomic effects are unlikely, at least in the near term," the report said.
BP, the owner of the oil well where the rig was based, has said it has spent $350 million in cleanup costs so far. Exxon spent a total of roughly 11 times that much on its cleanup of the infamous Exxon Valdez oil spill of 1989.
Border 'Mayhem'? An Illegal Immigration Fact Check Shows Violence Declining
By numbers alone, the border region appears, as Department of Homeland Security Secretary and former Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano put it, is as "secure now as it has ever been."
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Key Vote: Motion to Recommit; America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010
Motion to Recommit; America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 - Vote Passed (292-126, 12 Not Voting)
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The House voted to send this bill that would reauthorize science and technology research programs back to the House Science committee with instructions to freeze funding at fiscal 2010 levels and to only fund the bill for three years, rather than the original five. House leaders are planning to bring the measure to a vote again this week.
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Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
The House voted to send this bill that would reauthorize science and technology research programs back to the House Science committee with instructions to freeze funding at fiscal 2010 levels and to only fund the bill for three years, rather than the original five. House leaders are planning to bring the measure to a vote again this week.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted YES......send e-mail
Key Vote: Durbin Amendment; Restoring American Financial Stability Act of 2010
Durbin Amendment; Restoring American Financial Stability Act of 2010 - Vote Agreed to (64-33, 3 Not Voting)
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The Senate adopted this amendment to the financial reform bill that would require the Federal Reserve to establish rules for "reasonable and proportional" fees that credit card networks, such as Visa and Mastercard, charge to merchants. The Senate continues work on the bill this week.
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Sen. Bill Nelson voted Not Voting......send e-mail or see bio
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
The Senate adopted this amendment to the financial reform bill that would require the Federal Reserve to establish rules for "reasonable and proportional" fees that credit card networks, such as Visa and Mastercard, charge to merchants. The Senate continues work on the bill this week.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted Not Voting......send e-mail
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES......send e-mail
Key Vote: McCain Amendment; Restoring American Financial Stability Act of 2010
McCain Amendment; Restoring American Financial Stability Act of 2010 - Vote Rejected (43-56, 1 Not Voting)
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The Senate rejected this amendment to the financial reform bill that would have established a time frame for ending the government’s support of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The Senate continues work on the bill this week.
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Sen. Bill Nelson voted NO......send e-mail or see bio
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
The Senate rejected this amendment to the financial reform bill that would have established a time frame for ending the government’s support of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The Senate continues work on the bill this week.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted NO......send e-mail
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES......send e-mail
Key Vote: Home Star Energy Retrofit Act
Home Star Energy Retrofit Act - Vote Passed (246-161, 23 Not Voting)
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The House passed this measure that would authorize a $6.6 billion rebate program for energy-efficient home renovations for households with incomes up to $250,000. The bill now goes to the Senate.
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Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted NO......send e-mail or see bio
The House passed this measure that would authorize a $6.6 billion rebate program for energy-efficient home renovations for households with incomes up to $250,000. The bill now goes to the Senate.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted NO......send e-mail
Key Vote: Shelby-Dodd Amendment; Restoring American Financial Stability Act of 2010
Shelby-Dodd Amendment; Restoring American Financial Stability Act of 2010 - Vote Agreed to (93-5, 2 Not Voting)
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The Senate voted to remove a part of the financial reform bill that would have created a $50 billion fund for the FDIC to cover the cost of liquidating failing financial companies. The Senate voted on several other amendments, and will continue its work on the bill this week.
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Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
The Senate voted to remove a part of the financial reform bill that would have created a $50 billion fund for the FDIC to cover the cost of liquidating failing financial companies. The Senate voted on several other amendments, and will continue its work on the bill this week.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES......send e-mail
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES......send e-mail
Key Vote: Puerto Rico Democracy Act
Puerto Rico Democracy Act - Vote Passed (223-169, 1 Present, 37 Not Voting)
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The House approved this bill to establish a two-stage process to determine Puerto Rico's political status. The first step would be a referendum on the question of whether to maintain or change Puerto Rico's current status as a commonwealth. If a majority of Puerto Ricans were to vote for a new status, then a second vote would be held to ask residents whether they favor statehood, full independence, independence with a special political association with the United States, or to retain the current commonwealth status. The legislation goes to the Senate.
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Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
The House approved this bill to establish a two-stage process to determine Puerto Rico's political status. The first step would be a referendum on the question of whether to maintain or change Puerto Rico's current status as a commonwealth. If a majority of Puerto Ricans were to vote for a new status, then a second vote would be held to ask residents whether they favor statehood, full independence, independence with a special political association with the United States, or to retain the current commonwealth status. The legislation goes to the Senate.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted YES......send e-mail
Key Vote: IMPROVE Acquisition Act of 2010
IMPROVE Acquisition Act of 2010 - Vote Passed (417-3, 10 Not Voting)
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The House overwhelmingly passed this measure that would require the Defense Department to develop a system with specific metrics, including targeted schedules and cost objectives, for the acquisition of weapons, information technology and services. It would also direct Defense Department officials to set up a system by 2017 to reward organizations that meet objectives and penalize those that do not. The bill now goes to the Senate.
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Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
The House overwhelmingly passed this measure that would require the Defense Department to develop a system with specific metrics, including targeted schedules and cost objectives, for the acquisition of weapons, information technology and services. It would also direct Defense Department officials to set up a system by 2017 to reward organizations that meet objectives and penalize those that do not. The bill now goes to the Senate.
Rep. Ander Crenshaw voted YES......send e-mail
Key Vote: Restoring American Financial Stability Act of 2010
Restoring American Financial Stability Act of 2010 - Vote Rejected (56-42, 2 Not Voting)
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The Senate failed for a third time last week to approve this procedural motion and begin floor debate on this legislation to overhaul financial regulations. However, it appears the Senate will proceed to floor debate this week and begin voting on amendments to the bill.
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Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
Sen. George LeMieux voted NO......send e-mail or see bio
The Senate failed for a third time last week to approve this procedural motion and begin floor debate on this legislation to overhaul financial regulations. However, it appears the Senate will proceed to floor debate this week and begin voting on amendments to the bill.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES......send e-mail
Sen. George LeMieux voted NO......send e-mail
Key Vote: Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act
Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act - Vote Passed (403-11, 3 Present, 13 Not Voting)
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The House voted to move forward with a bill to sanction Iran by approving this motion to appoint House members to a conference committee with the Senate. The House version of this bill focuses on imposing sanctions on multinational companies that deal with Iran's petroleum sector, while the Senate's broader version would prohibit the U.S. government from purchasing goods from companies that are subject to sanctions under existing law and expand sanctions on foreign companies investing more than $20 million in Iran’s oil and gas sector.
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Rep. Ander Crensh aw voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
The House voted to move forward with a bill to sanction Iran by approving this motion to appoint House members to a conference committee with the Senate. The House version of this bill focuses on imposing sanctions on multinational companies that deal with Iran's petroleum sector, while the Senate's broader version would prohibit the U.S. government from purchasing goods from companies that are subject to sanctions under existing law and expand sanctions on foreign companies investing more than $20 million in Iran’s oil and gas sector.
Rep. Ander Crensh aw voted YES......send e-mail
Key Vote: Confirmation Lael Brainard, of D.C., to be an Under Secretary of the Treasury
Lael Brainard to be an Under Secretary of the Treasury - Vote Confirmed (78-19, 3 Not Voting)
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The Senate confirmed Lael Brainard as the Treasury Department’s under secretary for international affairs. Her nomination had been held up over concerns that she allegedly failed to pay property taxes on time.
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Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES......send e-mail or see bio
The Senate confirmed Lael Brainard as the Treasury Department’s under secretary for international affairs. Her nomination had been held up over concerns that she allegedly failed to pay property taxes on time.
Sen. Bill Nelson voted YES......send e-mail
Sen. George LeMieux voted YES......send e-mail
Court limits harsh terms for youths
The Supreme Court ruled Monday that juveniles cannot be sentenced to life without parole for crimes other than murder, in a significant 5-4 decision that says imposing such sentences violates the Constitution's prohibition on "cruel and unusual" punishment.
The court's 5-4 decision — which says that an automatic life sentence for a young offender who has not committed murder violates the Constitution's ban on "cruel and unusual" punishment — wipes out laws in 37 states.
It means that the 129 juveniles now serving time under such laws will, at some point, have an opportunity to make a case for parole.
Most significantly, the decision — signed by the nine-member court's four more liberal justices and Anthony Kennedy, the conservative who votes with the liberals the most — emphasizes that young criminals are different from adults. And not just when it comes to the death penalty, which the court made off-limits for juveniles in 2005.
"A life without parole sentence improperly denies the juvenile offender a chance to demonstrate growth and maturity," Kennedy wrote for the majority in the decision that found life without parole disproportionally harsh.
Supreme Court Rules 'Sexually Dangerous' Can Be Held Longer Than Sentences
A 7-to-2 majority of the Supreme Court ruled today that Congress has the authority to pass a law allowing federal prisoners who have been deemed "sexually dangerous" to be held beyond the date of their original sentence.
The law, a provision of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act, was passed in 2006. A lower court had ruled that Congress overstepped its boundaries in passing the law.
But Justice Stephen Breyer, writing for the majority, found that the Constitution grants Congress the authority to enact the law.
"The statute is a necessary and proper means of exercising the federal authority that permits Congress to create federal criminal laws, to punish their violation, to imprison violators, to provide appropriately for those imprisoned, and to maintain the security of those who are not imprisoned but who may be affected by the federal imprisonment of others," he wrote.
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