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White House - Congressional Leadership Meeting, 5/19/70 (includes minutes)
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These documents were scanned from Box 106 of the Robert T. Hartmann Papers at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
DIARY OF WHITE HOUSE LEADERSHIP
MEETINGS -- 91st CONGRESS
May 19, 1970
The President entered at 8:40, apologized for his tardi-
ness, shook hands with several around the table and
greeted others individually by name, all in the best of
good humor, and took his seat. He invited discussion
concerning the Cooper-Church amendment in the Senate.
He first expressed his own views. Restrictions on
Presidential powers where armaments or the deployment
of armed forces are involved serve the interests of the
enemy because it tells the enejny what America will not
do. He recalled that President Eisenhower frequently
said in private that he opposed the use of nuclear weapons
but that he would never say so in public for fear it would
weaken America's bargaining power. The Cambodian
operation has been a vast strategic success. Had
restrictions similar to those proposed in the amendment
been in force, Americans in South Vietnam next year
would be sitting there facing the enemy fully armed with
all of the munitions and equipment which have been captured.
"If I were in the Senate, I would vote "no" because I do not
want to give aid and comfort to the enemy. If restrictions
are imposed which make it impossible for the President
to do what may be necessary to protect the lives of American
soldiers, the blood will be on the hands of those who impose
the restrictions. While we can expect to prevail with the
help of the House conferees before a conference committee,
the damage that would be done following adoption of the
amendment and pending action by the conference committee,
would be disastrous. It would give the enemy at home and
abroad a field day. Lated said that so far as tactical
achievements are concerned, the operation is ahead of
expectations. There have been 9 thrusts against sanctuary
areas. One has been terminated and 2, 300 men have been
withdrawn. The phase-down of operations will be concluded
by the last 2 weeks of June.
GERALD LIBRARY 4. FORD
2
Rogers reported on the Jakarta Conference attended by 11
Asian countries led by Indonesia. The Conference recom-
mended that the Cambodian matter be submitted to the United
Nations Security Council and that the International Control
Commission be reactivated.
He called attention to the Pravda editorial attacking China,
which he says reflects a continuing deep division between
Russia and China. Russia has not broken diplomatic
relations with Cambodia, even though Sianouk has fallen.
This is because they don't want to do anything which might
make it possible for China to take over any part of Indochina.
If the Congressional leaders will support the President until
the withdrawal has been completed on July 1 and not exacerbate
the tentions, "everything will fall into place." In such case,
the President's decision will be called courageous and far-
sighted. He said that the Russians are concerned about the
capture of weapons because they supply 80% of the armaments
used by the North Vietnamese and Vietcong.
The President asked Harlow to give an estimate of the prospects
of the amendment in the Senate. He said that if the vote is taken
this week, we could expect the amendment to carry by a 100-vote
spread. However, some 20 Republicans and a few Democrats
are sufficiently aroused by the threat to the President's posture
that they are prepared to talk "at vast length if that is desired.
Mansfield wants an early vote, probably on Thursday. Perhaps
12 amendments to the Cooper-Church amendment will be offered
and debated. One includes the Eastland POW amendment. RMN
interrupted to say that this will have special bite because there
are several POW camps located deep in Cambodia. Harlow
said that there may be a substitute amendment to repeal the
Gulf of Tonkin Resolution. Cooper seems genuinely distressed
over the direction things have gone since he first offered the
amendment, and he is prepated to help arrange compromise
language to spare the President unnecessary embarrassment.
GERALO FORD LIBRARY
3
If he, Mansfield, Church and Aiken all agree, this would
resolve the problem. RMN read from a paper language
that has been offered as a staty draft for a compromise.
He did not seem too pleased with the language. He said
that he will be glad to see 6 Democratic Senators required
to vote on the question of restricting a President's war-
making powers when the armed forces are committed to
combat. He thinks they should also be obliged to vote on
a broader amendment which would apply to all nations of the
world, including those in the Middle East. He says that he
is inclined against the use of the filibuster because the
continuing talk is what is doing the damage. He asked
Mrs. Smith for her viewpoint. Mrs. Smith said that she
ha d just returned from an angagement at Colby College,
where she criticised the timing of the amendment rather than
its substance. She hopes that the Senate will not have to vote
on the matter. Scott predicted that if the vote were taken
today, the amendment would carry by 57 to 40 or 54 to 43. An
effort is being made to find language acceptable to 29 Republi-
can Senators who indicate that they would like to have the
opportunity to support some amendment which is not objection-
able to the President. Mansfield has indicated that be/would
support such language. Scott is afraid that if the matter is
delayed too long, some Republicans might "slide over to the
McGovern-Hatfield position. "
Griffin said that every day that goes by, they are finding more
and more opposition to all amendments. Saxbe made a trip to
Ohio and after he learned that the people are supporting the
President, he has changed his own position. Ford, who has
returned from an Ohio commitment, shid that he sensed the
same sentiment. He quoted the statistics concerning the captures
made by our troops, and he said that even the local press was
impressed. Time is on the President's side.
FORD CANADA
Allott said that on a recent trip to Colorado, nonone challenged
his support of the President but his mail is running 19 to 1
against the President. He is willing to filtbuster until the
July 1 deadline is passed. If the amendment is adopted, the
Democrats can say that the President would have had a ground
war in full swing throughout the continent but for the action of
Congress. Tower greed. with Allott and said he is willing to
4
filibuster. Laird spoke against a filibuster. He said it was
better to throw our chances into the hands of a conference
committee. Taft announced that the House Foreign Affairs
Committee will begin hearings May 25 on the subject of
Cambodia and the first witness will be Harriman,
Rogers said that it would be a mistake to announce a
compromise at this point. It would be regarded as capitula-
tion by the President. If the debate is allowed to continue for
a reasonable time and a compromise is achieved, it will
appear that the President has forced his opponents to yield.
Morton said that politically time is on our side and the best
politics is no compromise on this issue. He discussed his
meeting in recent days with students on 25 college campuses
within a 100-mile radius of the District of Columbia. He
believes that most students credit the President with good
faith in his desire to win the peace.
Anderson said that he believed it would be helpful if Congress
could be invited to play a "consultative role. 11
RMN said he is willing to compromise so long as the compromise
preserves the constitutional powers of the President but that
so far as the policy he has chosen is concerned, nothing that
is done in the Senate will affect his determination to do whatever
is necessary to protect the lives of American troops in Indo-
china.
We adjourned at 10:00 a. m.
RICHARD H. POFF
GERALD P. FORD
FOR MR FORD
from Bill T.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MAY 19, 1970
OFFICE OF THE WHITE HOUSE PRESS SECRETARY
THE WHITE HOUSE
PRESS CONFERENCE
OF
SENATOR HUGH SCOTT
AND
CONGRESSMAN GERALD R. FORD
THE BRIEFING ROOM
AT 10:08 A.M. EDT.
MR. ZIEGLER: The Leadership meeting started at
8:40 this morning and ran until about 9:50. The Cabinet
meeting has now started.
Senator Scott and Congressman Ford are here to
discuss the Leadership meeting with you to the extent that
they are prepared to do SO.
SENATOR SCOTT: Ladies and Gentlemen: There was
a general discussion of various amendments to the Military
Sales Act. No decisions were reached.
We are all
aware that this is a very significant Constitutional question
and it has aroused tremendous interest. There are perhaps
a dozen or more amendments involved.
The Administration is not prejudging any amendments
and the White House, at the same time, has not endorsed any
amendments, but the search continues for acceptable solutions.
The other matter we discussed at considerable
length was, first of all, the reaffirmation by those in
a position to know in the Administration the viewpoint that
we will definitely have all Americans out of Cambodia by
July 1.
There was much discussion of the support of the
President which various Members of the Leadership have
discovered in their home States, in the West, in the Midwest,
and my own experience in Pennslyvania. I find very strong
support of the President. In the last two speeches I have
made supporting the President's promise to get us out of
Cambodia and to shorten the war, I have had standing ovations
from Pennsylvania audiences.
So I believe there is definitely strong support
for what the President is doing to wind down this war.
CONGRESSMAN FORD: I would like to add one or two
comments.
The first is that all of the Republican Leaders who
were present. indicated their support for the operation in
Cambodia which has been, by any standards, a very substantial
success.
MORE
- 2 -
I might add that the President, as we broke up,
indicated his appreciation for the kind of help and assistance
that the various Leaders have given to him in this very
difficult time.
I might also add that I was in Ohio yesterday. I
spoke in two Congressional Districts and used, I think very
effectively, not only with the people in the audience,
but also at several press conferences, the statistics which
are available every day that show without any question of a
doubt that the military objectives of the operation are an
amazing success.
When the American people are given these facts,
the seizure of the tremendous amount of war material, including
food, that impresses any audience. I think now that this
message is getting through, of the vast amounts of military
hardware and food supplies being captured, the American
people are responding very emphatically in favor of the
President's program.
I understand that a Newsweek poll reported that
some 65 percent of the American people are supporting the
President's decision to do what he did in seeking to destroy
the military effectiveness of the enemy sanctuaries in
Cambodia.
I might add that although we in the House are not
immediately involved in these various amendments, I would
only re-emphasize that if the vote were taken today in
the House, it would probably be more emphatically in favor
of the President than it was about ten days ago when the
various amendments that sought to restrict the President's
responsibility as Commander-in-Chief were defeated anywhere
from three-to-two or two-to-one. I think the support today
would be even stronger.
Q
Senator Scott, shortly after the Cambodian
invasion youroffice was reported to have received letters
20-to-1 against the operation. How do you now account for
the fact that you are getting such standing ovations in
Pennsylvania?
SENATOR SCOTT: First of all, the people who are
against something usually dominate the mail channels and
telegrams. Secondly, there is now some change noticeable
in the mail. It is so heavy that my wife came down to
help with opening the mail yesterday. She reports to me that
she finds a considerable veering around in support of the
President.
We have not tabulated the percentages, but they
are somewhat more in favor of the President's action than
formerly.
However, in addressing groups in Pennsylvania,
LIBRARY CERALD FURD
I have found that the support for the President is very
strong indeed.
MORE
- 3 -
Q
Senator, I am a little puzzled as to why you
want some sort of form of resolution limiting the President's
power if you feel what he has done is so popular.
SENATOR SCOTT: I have not said some form of amendment
limiting the President's power would be favored by me. I have
said that if some acceptable language could be found for some
of the amendments, I am constantly in search of it. I have
cautioned you that the White House has not endorsed any
amendments, but has listened when we have told them of
various suggestions that have been made.
Q
Did you present any possible amendments or
compromise and did you urge the President to accept something
along that line?
SENATOR SCOTT: We had general discussions. I did
not present any amendments of my own today. We were
simply discussing the whole Military Sales Act -- how long
it would take to dispose of it and how many amendments there
were, and we discussed some of the amendments.
Q What do you think is the prospect for the
Cooper-Church Amendment now?
SENATOR SCOTT: Well, I think it is not possible
to say, because amendments to that amendment will be offered
very probably from the Floor in considerable numbers.
Therefore, to estimate the way the Cooper-Church Amendment
will look finally is almost impossible.
Q
Senator Scott, you said a moment ago that
the search continues for a solution. The impression of
some of us has been that the Administration had pretty well
closed the door to any compromise settlement of this and
was going right down the line against any amendment. Is
that incorrect?
SENATOR SCOTT: I think Mr. Ziegler will clarify
that for you. I don't believe the position down here is
intransigent or that the door has been closed. The position
now is that the Constitutional authority of the President
must and will be preserved.
Q
Congressman Ford, the nine Negro Congressmen
charged or accused the President of closing the door of
communications with them and they have been denied a meeting
with the President and so forth. Do you think this is so
and have you done anything in that direction to ease the
situation?
FORD
CONGRESSMAN FORD: I think the best answer to that
should come from the White House. The nine Negro Members,
as far as I recollect, have not asked for any help from
me in seeking to meet with the President.
I would add, however, that on any occasion where I
have sought to meet with the President, with other groups,
there has always been an open door and a great willingness
on the part of the President to meet and discuss whatever
an individual or a group of individuals had on their minds.
MORE
- 4 -
MR. ZIEGLER: To support what Senator Scott just
said, the Administration has expressed its feelings about
the language of the Cooper-Church Amendment. In response
to questions regarding other proposed amendments, we have simply
said that we have not endorsed any amendments.
Now that has been interpreted, as I have noted,
suggesting that the Administration was intransigent about
discussing various amendments or had a closed mind to
discussion on this subject. Our position has been and still
is, in relation to the Cooper-Church Amendment, that we have
not endorsed, as we have said, any amendments to the Cooper-
Church Amendment.
I
If acceptable language was found, would the
White House be willing to accept some amendments?
MR. ZIEGLER: As Senator Scott and Congressman Ford
have just pointed out this morning in the Leadership meeting,
there was general discussion in general terms about the
Cooper-Church Amendments. This is where we stand at this
time. We are in the discussion stage.
Q
I understood you to say in Florida that there
should be no restraints on the President's power as Commander
in Chief.
MR. ZIEGLER: Under the Constitution.
Q
Which would seem to indicate that the only
language you would accept would be language diametrically
opposed to the Cooper-Church Amendment.
MR. ZIEGLER: That is an interpretation, perhaps,
that was drawn from what I said, but the indication I made
was that we were opposed to the language of the Cooper-
Church Amendment. In regard to the other amendments, I said
we have not endorsed it.
My remarks were in reference to the Administration's
feelings about restraint being put on the President in his
role as Commander-in-Chief.
O
You are not foreclosing the possibility that
the President will accept an amendment?
MR. ZIEGLER: What I am doing is stating perhaps
more clearly what I said in Florida and then referring to the
discussions that were held in the Leadership meeting this
morning which were general discussions regarding the entire
matter of the Cooper-Church Amendment.
Q
Senator Scott, from your discussion with the
President this morning, do you have the impression or was it
indicated that he might accept an amendment which would be
GERALD GERALDR. FORM
a limitation of some kind on his future action?
SENATOR SCOTT: The President was not asked to
accept amendments which would be limiting on his power as
Commander-in-Chief. He was not so requested. There were
simply discussions of various amendments and the language of
various amendments and no conclusions were reached.
MORE
- 5 -
Q
Did you not reach any conclusion about what
he might accept?
SENATOR SCOTT: That is right. No conclusions
were reached.
Q I am not sure what you are trying to do in the
Senate. You are obviously trying to reach P. satisfactory
compromise formula with the Senate. What do you interpret
the Senate is after?
SENATOR SCOTT: I think there are a number of
Senators who are anxious to get on the record with their
views as to the operations in Southeast Asia, and some as
to specific operations in Cambodia. My concern is that the
views of the Senate be expressed within the framework of
the support of the Constitutional powers of the Commander in
Chief, and that if the Senate can find that formula, and
relieve themselves of some views at the same time on Cambodia,
that is something that might work out. But I want it
made clear that there were no such conclusions reached here
this morning.
Q
Senator, do you have some language in mind
that would fulfill those objectives?
SENATOR SCOTT: My mind is full of language every
day, but I have no specific language to suggest to you at
this time.
MORE
GERALD R. FORD LEBRARY
- 6 -
Q Senator Scott, last year, if I am not mistaken, a
Laos-Thailand amendment was not only accepted by the President and
signed by him, but also embraced by him at the time. Why is there
resistence to what seems to me to be a similar amendment on Cambodia?
SENATOR SCOTT: I am not sure that the amendments are
similar. They were on different bills. I don't think it was the
Military Sales Bill.
Q The import of them was similar. You would not deny
that; would you?
SENATOR SCOTT: I am not in a position to answer it. I
don't have the wording of the so-called Findley-type amendments
clearly in my mind just now. The present situation is one where
there is an operation successfully proceeding in Cambodia, and. there-
fore there is considerable feeling among many Senators that we ought
to wait and see and judge this operation by what happens.
In my opinion it will be a success. Therefore, that enters
into the consideration of any language in an amendment at this time.
Q
Did the President discuss or did you discuss with the
President the operations in Laos this morning? Did that come up,
that question?
SENATOR SCOTT: No, I don't think SO.
MR. ZIEGLER: In relation to this question, the so-called
operations in Laos have been dealt with by the Secretary of Defense
yesterday and it was pointed out very clearly and very specifically
that the report regarding South Vietnamese actions along the border
of Laos have been long-going protective reaction responses. There
is nothing new in what was reported yesterday.
Q
Did Secretary Rogers and Secretary Laird brief the
Leadership today?
SENATOR SCOTT: Yes, Secretary Rogers and Secretary Laird
did brief us this morning.
Q
Senator, the Vice President has suggested that those
Senators who support the Cooper-Church Amendment are doing so under
political motivation, but you seem to be suggesting to us today that
the widespread support would indicate that there is no political gain
to be had in this. Do you disagree with the Vice President's
analysis of the Senate's motivation?
SENATOR SCOTT: You know quite well, I am sure, that I
never comment on somebody else's comment. That is in the second
degree. There are Senators who have ambitions for higher office and
there are Senators who do not. There are Senators who are more
politically aware and there may be some -- I have not found them
yet -- who are less politically aware.
CONGRESSMAN FORD: I might add, Hugh, I think the House
of Representatives and we run every two years -- is probably more
attuned or at least equally attuned to the political problems
involved in a situation such as we are facing. And I repeat the
action of the House ten days or two weeks ago when the House,
in the final act, defeated the Findley Amendment overwhelmingly and
in effect did not in any way restrict or inhibit the President's
capability to carry out his Constitutional responsibilities as
Commander-in-Chief. I think the House realizes that it is more
GERALD 8. FORD
important to be right than to be political.
MORE
- 7 -
Q
Senator Scott, do you think the President's powers
as Commander-in-Chief are unlimited?
SENATOR SCOTT: No, indeed I do not. The Constitution
provides the framework for the powers. I might add, in regard to
some of the other questions, that I read in the papers that I
have expressed an open mind regarding various possible amendments
that come up from time to time on this and other bills. My
job is to represent all of the 43 Republican Senators and at
times I may be expressing a comment which indicates that these
views are strongly felt and that they are anxious to have them
heard. But I would like all of that to be put in the framework
of what I have just said, that I do not want to see the Constitu-
tional powers of the President impaired.
I am, of course, a courier at times, carrying the
views of different Senators some on one side and some on the
other.
Q
You were quoted in a dispatch by UPI as having
announced the end of operation Rock Crusher IV and another opera-
tion in the Parrot's Beak. Was that a correct quotation and how
did that come about?
SENATOR SCOTT: I believe I had some calls on it. I
said that I was told as I walked in that Operation Rock Crusher
IV and an operation that I recall as Tia Chop had been terminated
on the situation reports brought into me. I was told later that
the word" 'substantially" would have perhaps been more correct.
Q
You were told as you walked in?
SENATOR SCOTT: I was given the reports on the situation
of these two operations.
Q
As you came into the Senate?
SENATOR SCOTT: Yes.
Q
Do you think you have a good line of communication
with the White House?
SENATOR SCOTT: I have an excellent line, that is why
I am here.
I
Did you discuss the economy today?
SENATOR SCOTT: No.
Q
What did you discuss besides Cambodia today?
SENATOR SCOTT: The general support we noted of the
President, as we go home.
MR. ZIEGLER: In relation to your question, Helen, as
Congressman Ford said, at the conclusion of the meeting the
President thanked the Leaders for their support and the very
:
full work they have put in in relation to the President.
I will assure you that Senator Scott's communications
with the White House have been, are, and will continue to be
excellent.
FORD
STATES
MORE
- 8 -
Q
He has had to correct himself on information
that has come from the White House.
MR. ZIEGLER: I don't know if he has corrected himself
so much as corrected the reports on what he has said.
SENATOR SCOTT: I think Ron is right on that. I read
three utterly different reports on one statement I made. Then
I looked at television last night and I found one channel was
totally contrary to the reports of what I had said on the other
two channels.
So, I have trouble keeping my own house, as a Senator,
in order, but I also find that I have some difficulty at times
when reports of what I said disagree.
Now, if you feel that I am speaking in any confused
state of mind, I don't mind you staying around here and clarify-
ing it. One of the three commentators called me last night and
said he wanted to be accurate. I was immensely grateful because
he avoided the mistake one of the other commentators made.
One of the other commentators said I approved of moving
troops into Laos, Thailand and Cambodia. I know that none of you
have heard me say that, because I have never said that.
THE PRESS: Thank you.
END
(AT 10:30 A.M. EDT)
HOUSE ACTION, PERIOD APRIL 7 THROUGH MAY 18, 1970
Tuesday, April 7, 1970
DISTRICT JUDGES
The House insisted on its amendment to S. 952, to provide for the appoint-
ment of additional district judges, and agreed to a conference asked
by the Senate. Representatives Celler, Rodino, Rogers of Colorado,
McCulloch and Poff were appointed as conferees.
SUSPENSIONS
The House voted to suspend the rules and passed the following:
S. 980
To provide courts of the United States with jurisdiction
over contract claims against nonappropriated fund
activities of the United States; amended and returned
to the Senate.
S. 2595
To amend the Agricultural Act of 1949 with regard to
the use of dairy products; passed in lieu of H.R. 12588
and clearing the measure for the White House.
ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION
By a record vote of 312 yeas to 58 nays, the House agreed to the con-
ference report on H.R. 514, to extend programs of assistance for
elementary and secondary education, thus clearing the measure for
the White House.
RAILROAD RETIREMENT ACT
RULE
The House agreed to H. Res. 892, providing for one hour of debate.
PASSAGE
By a record vote of 379 yeas, the House passed H.R. 15733, to provide
a 15 percent increase in annuities and to change the method of
computing interest on investments of the railroad retirement accounts.
Prior to passage, the House agreed to the amendment by Mr. Hall to
the committee amendment that limits compensation of any experts
or consultants the Board may hire to $100 a day.
GERALD i
- 2 -
Wednesday, April 8, 1970
RAILROAD-LABOR DISPUTE
RULE
The House adopted H.Res.904 by a voice vote, to provide for one
hour of debate.
PASSAGE
By a voice vote, the House passed H.J.Res.1124, to provide for the
settlement of the labor dispute between certain carriers by railroad
and certain of their employees.
Prior to passage, the House agreed to the amendment by Mr. Adams
of Washington that establishes February 19, 1970, as the date
of notification of ratification.
RECOMMIT
By a voice vote, the House rejected Mr. Carter's motion to recommit
the bill to the Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce.
Thursday, April 9, 1970
FEDERAL EMPLOYEES SALARY
RULE
The House agreed to H.Res.905, providing for two hours of debate under
a closed rule; a vote of 43 yeas to 22 nays moved the previous question.
PASSAGE
The House passed H.R.16844 by a record vote of 370 yeas to 7 nays, to
increase the pay of Federal employees; this was later vacated and S.3690 passed.
RECOMMIT
By a record vote of 261 yeas to 124 nays, the House agreed to Mr. Corbett's
motion to recommit the bill to the Committee on Post Office and Civil
Service with instructions to report it back forthwith, omitting
sections regarding remote worksite allowances and subsistence and
quarters allowances for employees of the Corps of Engineers engaged
in floating plant operations.
D. C. COURTS
The House disagreed to the amendment of the Senate to the amendments of
the House to S.2601, to reorganize the courts of the District of Columbia,
and agreed to the conference asked by the Senate. Representatives McMillan,
Abernethy, Dowdy, Cabell, Nelsen, Harsha, Broyhill of Virginia and
Hogan were appointed as conferees.
FORD
18484
- 3 -
Monday, April 13, 1970
TREASURY, POST OFFICE, EXECUTIVE APPROPRIATIONS
The House passed H.R.16900 by a record vote of 333 yeas to 3 nays, passing
the Treasury, Post Office and Executive Office appropriations bill
for FY 1971.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH APPROPRIATIONS
By a voice vote, the House passed H.R. 16915, Legislative Branch
appropriations for FY 1971.
Tuesday, April 14, 1970
FEDERAL EMPLOYEES' SALARY
The House agreed to H. Res. 909, providing for concurring in the Senate
amendments to the House amendment to S. 3690, to increase the pay of
Federal employees.
By a record vote of 305 yeas to 69 nays, the House agreed to move the
previous question.
OFFICE OF EDUCATION APPROPRIATIONS
PASSAGE
By a voice vote, the House passed H.R. 16916, Office of Education
appropriations for FY 1971.
RECOMMIT
Prior to passage, the House rejected a motion by Mr. Michel to recommit
the bill to the Committee on Appropriations with instructions to
report it back forthwith with an amendment that would add $5 million
in additional funds for research and training in vocational education.
Wednesday, April 15, 1970
FAMILY ASSISTANCE ACT
RULE
The House adopted H. Res. 916 by a record vote of 204 yeas to 183 nays
to provide six hours of closed debate.
Thursday, April 16, 1970
FAMILY ASSISTANCE ACT
PASSAGE
By a record vote of 243 yeas to 155 nays, the House passed H.R. 16311,
the Family Assistance Act of 1970.
CERALLA FORD
- 4 -
FAMILY ASSISTANCE ACT (continued)
RECOMMIT
By a record vote of 248 yeas to 149 nays, the House agreed to a
motion to recommit the bill to the Committee on Ways and Means
with instructions to report it back forthwith containing amend-
ments that restrict definition of "suitable employment" as used
in provisions regarding denial of benefits in case of refusal
of manpower services, training, or employment.
Monday, April 20, 1970
HOUSE CONSIDERED CONSENT CALENDAR
SUSPENSIONS (6 BILLS)
The House voted to suspend the rules and passed the following bills:
H.R. 10666, to establish a National Commission on Libraries and
Information Science, by a record vote of 259 yeas to 11 nays.
H.R. 780, to authorize the Merlin Division, Rogue River Basin
Project, Oregon, by a record vote of 271 yeas to 15 nays.
The House voted to suspend the rules and passed the following bills
by voice vote:
H.R. 9894, to authorize the East Greenacres unit, Rathdrum Prairie
Project, Idaho.
H.R. 4172, to authorize additional Assistance for the Ice Age
National Scientific Reserve, Wisconsin.
H. J. Res. 1069, to extend the authority for the erection of a
memorial to Mary McLeod Bethune.
S. 1968, to authorize the removal of the Francis Asbury statue.
Tuesday, April 21, 1970
PRIVATE CALENDAR WAS CALLED.
Wednesday, April 22, 1970
HOUSE NOT IN SESSION.
Thursday, April 23, 1970
NASA AUTHORIZATION
RULE
The House adopted H. Res. 893 by a voice vote to provide two hours
of open debate.
FORD is LIBRARY
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NASA AUTHORIZATION (continued)
PASSAGE
By a record vote of 229 yeas to 105 nays, the House passed H.R. 16516,
the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization
Act, 1971.
RECOMMIT
Prior to passage, the House passed by voice vote a motion by Mr.
Fulton (Pa.) to recommit the bill to the Committee on Science
and Astronautics with instructions to report it back forthwith
containing amendments that reduce research and development
authorization for Apollo program, reduced by $14.5 million
and space flight operations program, reduced by $15.5 million.
DIRKSEN FEDERAL OFFICE BUILDINGS
The House by voice vote agreed to the Senate amendment to the House
amendments regarding federally impacted school aid to S. 3253, to
provide that the Federal office building and U.S. Courthouse in
Chicago, Ill., shall be named the "Everett McKinley Dirksen Building
East" and that the Federal office building to be constructed in
Chicago, Ill., shall be named the "Everett McKinley Dirksen Building
West" in memory of the late Everett McKinley Dirksen.
Monday, April 27, 1970
UNITED STATES TRAVEL
RULE
The House adopted H. Res. 940 by a voice vote to provide one hour
of open debate.
PASSAGE
By a record vote of 238 yeas to 94 nays, the House passed H.R. 14714,
to amend authority of the Secretary of the Interior under the Act of
July 19, 1940, to encourage through the National Park Service travel
in the United States.
RECOMMIT
By a record vote of 111 yeas to 222 nays, the House defeated a straight
motion by Mr. Gross to recommit the bill to the Committee on Inter-
state and Foreign Commerce.
PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE EMPLOYEES TRANSPORTATION
RULE
The House adopted H. Res. 891 by a voice vote to provide one hour
of open debate.
GERALD LIBERTY FORD
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PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE EMPLOYEES TRANSPORTATION (continued)
DEFEATED
By a record vote of 64 yeas to 273 nays, the House defeated H.R. 14385,
to provide authority for subsidized transportation for Public Health
Service employees affected by the transfer to the Parklawn Building
in Rockville, Maryland.
TAXES -- PAYMENTS
RULE
The House adopted H. Res. 938 by a voice vote to provide one hour of
open debate.
PASSAGE
By a voice vote, the House passed H.R. 4599, to extend for 2 years
the period for which payments in lieu of taxes may be made with
respect to certain real property transferred by the Reconstruction
Finance Corporation and its subsidiaries to other Government de-
partments.
Tuesday, April 28, 1970
ARMS CONTROL AGENCY
RULE
The House adopted H. Res. 945 by a voice vote to provide one hour of
open debate.
PASSAGE
By a voice vote the House passed H.R. 16200, to amend the Arms Control
and Disarmament Act in order to extend the authorization for appro-
priations.
RECOMMIT
Prior to passage, by a record vote of 87 yeas to 280 nays, the House
defeated a motion by Mr. Gross to recommit the bill to the Com-
mittee on Foreign Affairs with instructions to report it back
forthwith with an amendment which would reduce the authorization
by $4.4 million.
SMUT MAIL
RULE
The House adopted H. Res. 944 by a voice vote to provide two hours of
open debate.
GERALE FCRT LIGRAST
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SMUT MAIL (continued)
PASSAGE
By a record vote of 375 yeas to 8 nays, the House passed H.R. 15693,
to exclude from the mails certain nonmailable matter.
Wednesday, April 29, 1970
MILITARY PROCUREMENT AUTHORIZATION
RULE
The House adopted H. Res. 952 by a voice vote to provide four hours
of open debate.
By a teller vote of 48 yeas to 90 nays the House defeated an amendment
by Mr. Pike that sought to reduce by $200 million the authorization
for procurement of C-5A aircraft.
By a teller vote of 39 yeas to 85 nays the House defeated an amendment
by Mr. Cohelan that sought to cut the authorization for procurement
for the Minuteman III missile by $471.7 million.
Thursday, April 30, 1970
UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION
The House disagreed to the amendments of the Senate to H.R. 14705, ex-
tending and improving the Federal-State unemployment compensation
program, and agreed to a conference asked by the Senate. Appointed
as conferees Representatives Mills, Boggs, Watts, Byrnes of Wisconsin,
and Betts.
CONTINUED CONSIDERATION OF MILITARY PROCUREMENT AUTHORIZATION
The House agreed to an amendment by Mr. Wyman while in the Committee of
the Whole that provides for construction of DD-963 class destroyers
to take place at more than one shipyard.
By a teller vote of 85 yeas to 131 nays the House defeated the Leggett
amendment which would have cut $660 million from the ABM system.
By a teller vote of 86 yeas to 128 nays the House defeated the Leggett
amendment to cut $203 million from phase II of the ABM system.
By a teller vote of 51 yeas to 91 nays the House defeated the Nedzi
amendment to cut $100.2 million in funds for research and development
on the B-I aircraft.
By a division vote of 22 yeas to 66 nays the House defeated the Bingham
amendment to cut $658 million from procurement of the F-14.
FOAL
CIMALO
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MILITARY PROCUREMENT AUTHORIZATION (continued)
By a division vote of 27 yeas to 74 nays the House defeated the Moorhead
amendment for a 5 percent cut in each line item, and would create a
quarterly reporting system to Congress on costly new weapons systems.
By a division vote of 21 yeas to 58 nays the House defeated the Pike
amendment designed to prohibit payments to Lockheed until after such
time as Congress approves a settlement between the Government and
Lockheed over cost overruns.
The following amendments were pending when the Committee by teller vote
of 131 yeas to 100 nays rose:
An amendment by Mr. Reid of N.Y. designed to prohibit the use of American
ground combat forces in Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand.
A substitute amendment by Mr. Findley to the previous amendment that
would require consent of Congress before use of American combat
forces in Laos, Cambodia, or Thailand, except for an emergency when
such use is determined necessary by the President.
A substitute to the substitute by Mr. Leggett that omitted the proviso
that would permit the President to use American combat forces in
Laos, Cambodia, or Thailand in emergencies without the consent of
Congress.
Monday, May 4, 1970
HOUSE CONSIDERED CONSENT CALENDAR
NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH ACT
The House adopted by voice vote the Conference Report on H.R. 515, the
National School Lunch Act.
SUSPENSIONS (8 BILLS)
The House voted to suspend the rules and passed the following bills
by voice vote:
H.R. 6951, to enact the Interstate Agreement on Detainers into law.
H. J. Res. 546, to provide for commemoration of the 100th Anniversary
of Yellowstone National Park.
H.R. 16661, to authorize a maximum of $15,000 coverage under Service-
men's Group Life Insurance.
H.R. 16739, to extend the authority to maintain Veterans Administra-
tion offices in the Philippines.
H.R. 13171, to provide for participation in international expositions.
GENALE FORD LIBRABA
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SUSPENSIONS (continued)
H.R. 11628, to transfer the authority to purchase office equipment and
furniture for the Library of Congress.
H.R. 12619, to amend the act relating to the policing of the Library of
Congress.
The House voted to suspend the rules and passed the following bill:
S. J. Res. 193, to provide for the appointment of James E. Webb as
Citizen Regent of the Smithsonian Institution, by a record vote of
309 yeas to 16 nays.
Tuesday, May 5, 1970
PRIVATE CALENDAR WAS CALLED.
NATIONAL TRAFFIC AND MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY ACT AUTHORIZATION
The House adopted by voice vote the conference report on H.R. 10105,
to amend the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966
to authorize appropriations for fiscal years 1970, 1971, and 1972.
PHS - OFFICER RETIREMENT
RULE
The House adopted H. Res. 943 by a voice vote, to provide for one hour
of open debate.
PASSAGE
By a voice vote, the House passed H.R. 10138, to equalize the retirement
benefits for commissioned officers of the Public Health Service with
retirement benefits provided for other officers in the uniformed ser-
vices.
Subsequently this passage was vacated and S. 2452, a similar Senate-
passed measure was passed in lieu.
Wednesday, May 6, 1970
CONTINUED CONSIDERATION OF MILITARY PROCUREMENT AUTHORIZATION
PASSAGE
By a record vote of 326 yeas to 69 nays, with 1 voting "present," the
House passed H.R. 17123, military procurement authorization for fiscal
year 1971.
FORD
STATE
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MILITARY PROCUREMENT AUTHORIZATION (continued)
RECOMMIT
By a record vote of 248 yeas to 146 nays, the previous question on the
motion to recommit was ordered.
By a voice vote a motion by Mr. O'Konski to recommit the bill to the
Committee on Armed Services with instructions to report it back forth-
with with amendments that cut $550.3 million in research and develop-
ment funds was rejected.
By a teller vote of 70 yeas to 215 nays the House defeated an amendment
by Mr. Bingham to the pending Reid of New York amendment that would
include North Vietnam, as well as Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand in
the group of countries that the use of U.S. ground troops be prohibited
in.
By a teller vote of 132 yeas to 215 nays the House defeated the Leggett
amendment to the Findley substitute, which struck out the proviso that
would permit the President to use American combat forces in Laos,
Cambodia, or Thailand in emergencies without the consent of Congress.
By a teller vote of 140 yeas to 172 nays the House defeated an amendment
by Mr. Frelinghuysen to the Findley substitute to the Reid amendment
that urged continued troop withdrawals and called on the President to
avoid enlarging the present conflict into the neighboring states of
Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand.
By a teller vote of 171 yeas to 144 nays, the House agreed to the Findley
substitute to the Reid amendment that would require the consent of
Congress before use of American combat forces in Laos, Cambodia, or
Thailand, except for an emergency when such use is determined neces-
sary by the President.
By a teller vote of 32 yeas to 221 nays the Reid amendment as amended by
the Findley substitute was defeated by the House.
Thursday, May 7, 1970
SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS
RULE
The House adopted by a voice vote H. Res. 972, a rule waiving all points
of order against titles III, IV, and V of the bill.
PASSAGE
By a record vote of 333 yeas to 6 nays, the House passed H.R. 17399,
making supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year ending June
30, 1970.
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SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS (continued)
RECOMMIT
By a record vote of 220 yeas to 134 nays, the House agreed to order
the previous question on the motion to recommit.
By a voice vote a motion by Mr. Cederberg to recommit the bill to the
Committee on Appropriations was rejected.
Prior to final passage, the House agreed to an amendment by Mr. Mahon
that adds $4 million for medical care for veterans.
By a teller vote of 69 yeas to 63 nays, the House agreed to an amendment
by Mr. Vanik that prohibits the use of funds available in the bill
to be used for loans to officers and staff members of the Inter-American
Development Bank.
By a teller vote of 94 yeas to 163 nays the House rejected an amendment
by Mr. Boland that sought to prohibit funds for American ground combat
forces in Cambodia.
Monday, May 11, 1970
D. C. LEGISLATION
By a voice vote the House passed the following bills pertaining to the
District of Columbia:
H.R. 670, to amend section 19(a) of the District of Columbia Assistance
Act of 1962.
H.R. 9017, to permit the District of Columbia Council to make rules
and regulations under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, amended.
H.R. 15033, to authorize, in the District of Columbia, the gift of all
or part of a human body after death for specified purposes, amended.
Subsequently, this passage was vacated and S. 2999, an identical
Senate-passed bill, was passed in lieu with an amendment.
H.R. 16476, to make it lawful to set up or fly any kite in the District
of Columbia, amended.
S. 1458, to prohibit the business of debt adjusting in the District
of Columbia except as an incident to the lawful practice of law or
as an activity engaged in by a nonprofit corporation or association.
H.R. 17130, to amend the District of Columbia Police and Firemen's
Salary Act of 1958 and the District of Columbia Teacher's Salary
Act of 1955 to increase salaries, amended.
GERALD in
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D. C. LEGISLATION (continued)
By a record vote of 183 yeas to 142 nays, the House agreed to the
committee amendment to the D. C. Teacher's Salary bill regarding
starting salary - this now is set at $7800 per year.
Subsequently, this passage was vacated and S. 2694, a similar Senate-
passed bill, was passed in lieu, after being amended to contain the
language of the House bill as passed.
NSF AUTHORIZATION
RULE
The House adopted by voice vote H. Res. 954, to provide for one hour
of open debate.
PASSAGE
By a record vote of 312 yeas to 6 nays, the House passed H.R. 16595,
to authorize appropriations for activities of the National Science
Foundation.
RECOMMIT
By a record vote of 137 yeas to 188 nays, the House rejected a motion
by Mr. Roudebush to recommit the bill to the Committee on Science and
Astronautics with instructions to report it back forthwith containing
an amendment that would cut the authorization by $27.6 million.
Tuesday, May 12, 1970
TRUMAN DAM AND RESERVOIR
The House passed S. 3778, to change the name of the Kaysinger Bluff
Dam and Reservoir, Osage River Basin, Mo., to the Harry S. Truman
Dam and Reservoir, Mo.
POLICE, FIREMEN, AND TEACHERS' PAY INCREASE
Proceedings were vacated on the passage of S. 2694, to amend the District
of Columbia Police and Firemen's Salary Act of 1958 and the District of
Columbia Teachers' Salary Act of 1955 to increase salaries; and the
similar House bill, H.R. 17138, was passed in lieu.
EDUCATION CORRECTION OF LAW
The House passed S. J. Res. 199, making certain clerical corrections in
Public Law 91-230, to extend programs of assistance for elementary and
secondary education.
is
FORD
GERALD
LIBERTY
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Tuesday, May 12, 1970 (continued)
INDEPENDENT OFFICES--HUD APPROPRIATIONS
RULE
The House adopted by voice vote H. Res. 994, the rule waiving points
of order against certain provisions in the bill.
PASSAGE
By a voice vote, the House passed H.R. 17548, independent offices and
Department of Housing and Urban Development appropriations for fiscal
year 1971.
Prior to passage, the House agreed to the following amendments:
By a voice vote, an amendment by Mr. Evins that adds $25 million for
medical care for veterans.
By a teller vote of 73 yeas to 63 nays, an amendment by Mr. Stephens
that adds $350 million for water and sever facilities.
Wednesday, May 13, 1970
AIRPORTS AND AIRWAYS
By a record vote of 361 yeas to 3 nays, the House agreed to the Conference
Report on H.R. 14465, providing Federal assistance for expansion of the
Nation's airports and airways, and to amend laws relative to the taxa-
tion of aviation facilities.
NASA AUTHORIZATION
The House disagreed to the amendment of the Senate to H.R. 16516, to
authorize appropriations to the National Aeronautics and Space Ad-
ministration for research and development, construction of facilities,
and research and program management; and agreed to the conference
asked by the Senate. Appointed as conferees: Representatives Miller
of California, Teague of Texas, Karth, Hechler of West Virginia,
Fulton of Pennsylvania, Mosher, and Roudebush.
REORGANIZATION PLAN NO. 2 of 1970
PASSAGE
By a record vote of 164 yeas to 193 nays, the House failed to pass
H. Res. 960, to disapprove Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1970.
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Thursday, May 14, 1970
CONTINUING APPROPRIATIONS:
By a voice vote, the House passed H. J. Res. 1232, making further appro-
priations for the fiscal year 1970.
STATE, JUSTICE, COMMERCE, AND JUDICIARY APPROPRIATIONS
RULE
The House adopted by voice vote H. Res. 1004, the rule waiving points
of order against the bill.
PASSAGE
By a record vote of 321 yeas to 14 nays, the House passed H.R. 17575,
making appropriations for the Departments of State, Justice, and
Commerce, the Judiciary, and related agencies for the fiscal year
ending June 30, 1971.
The House defeated an amendment by Mr. Scheuer that earmarked
$19 million to the National Institute of Law Enforcement and
Criminal Justice.
The House defeated by voice vote a substitute by Mr. Smith of New
York to the previous amendment that makes available $19 million
to the National Institute of Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice.
INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL ACT
RULE
The House adopted by a voice vote H. Res. 939, to provide for one hour
of open debate.
PASSAGE
By a record vote of 173 yeas to 88 nays, the House passed H.R. 14685,
to improve the balance of payments by further promoting travel to
the United States.
Monday, May 18, 1970
HOUSE CONSIDERED CONSENT CALENDAR
SUSPENSIONS (3 BILLS)
The House voted to suspend the rules and passed the following bills:
S. 2624, the Customs Courts Act of 1970, by a roll call vote of
301 yeas to 0 nays.
H.R. 3328, Soboda Indian Reservation Water Supply, by a roll call vote
of 286 yeas to 11 nays.
GERALD P.. FORD LIBRARY
- 15 -
SUSPENSIONS
By a roll call vote of 108 yeas to 198 nays, the House defeated the
motion to suspend the rules and pass S. 1508, relating to the re-
tirement of justices and judges.
PROGRAM AHEAD
Tuesday, May 19, 1970
PRIVATE CALENDAR
H.R. 17614 - Department of the Interior and related agencies Appropriations
Bill, FY 1971
H.R. 17405 - Atomic Energy Commission Authorization
(Open Rule - Two Hours of Debate)
Wednesday, May 20, 1970
H.R. 17604 - Military Construction Authorization, 1971
(Subject to a Rule Being Granted)
H.R. 15073 - Bank Records and Foreign Transactions
(Open Rule - Two Hours of Debate)
Thursday, May 21, 1970 and Balance of Week
H.R. 17550 - Social Security Amendments of 1970
(Subject to a Rule Being Granted)
H.R. 15424 - To Amend the Merchant Marine Act of 1936
(Subject to a Rule Being Granted)
H. Res. 796 - Amending the Rules of the House of Representatives
relating to financial disclosure
(Open Rule - One Hour of Debate)
LIBRARY GERALD : FURD