What follows is the next in a series of diaries which will provide a year-by-year record of John Kerry's voting record in the US Senate, which has been summarized and excerpted from the
Project Vote Smart - Key Votes listing for Senator Kerry. This entry covers Sen. Kerry's voting record for the year,
2001.
Other Year's entries:
1988,
1989,
1990,
1991,
1992,
1993,
1994,
1995,
1996,
1997,
1998,
1999,
2000,
2001,
2002
2003,
2004.
Summary for 2001
Category: National Security Issues
- Anti-Terrorism-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1510 Uniting and Strengthening America (USA) Act of 2001
Vote to pass a bill that would expand law enforcement's power to investigate suspected terrorists. The bill would allow disclosure of wiretap information among certain government officials, authorize limited disclosure of secret grand jury information to certain government officials, and authorize the attorney general to detain foreigners he suspects are tied to terrorism. It also would make it easier for law enforcement to track Internet communications using surveillance techniques.
(Bill sponsored by Daschle D-SD)
Bill passed 96-1: R 46-0; D 49-1; I 1-0 on 10/11/2001.
Note: Senate vitiated previous passage on 10/30/2001
- Terrorist Attacks-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
SJRES 22 Terrorist Attacks Condemnation
Vote to pass a joint resolution that would express the sense of Congress that the Senate and the House condemn the terrorists who planned and carried out the September 11, 2001, attacks against the United States, as well as their sponsors. The resolution would also extend deepest condolences to the victims and their families, commend the heroic action of rescue workers, volunteers and officials responding to the scene, commit support of increased resources to eradicate terrorism, and declare September 12, 2001, as a nation day of unity and mourning.
(Resolution sponsored by Daschle, S-SD)
Joint Resolution passed 100-0: R 49-0; D 50-0; I 1-0 on 09/12/2001.
Presidential Action: Signed on 09/18/2001
- Anti-Terrorism Authority-Roving Wiretapping
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1510 Uniting and Strengthening America (USA) Act of 2001
Motion to table (kill) the Feingold, D-WI amendment that would provide that in order to conduct roving surveillance, the person implementing the order must ascertain that the target of the surveillance is present in the house or is using the phone that has been tapped. It also would require that the electronic surveillance must be directed only at the communication of the target.
(Tabling motion sponsored by Dascle D-SD, Amendment sponsored by Feingold D-WI, Bill sponsored by Daschle D-SD)
Motion agreed to 90-7: R 44-2; D 45-5; I 1-0 on 10/11/2001.
Note: Senate vitiated previous passage on 10/30/2001
- Aviation Security-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1447 Aviation Security Act
Vote to pass a bill that would allow for the federal government to take over security at airports and make baggage screeners federal employees. It would also levy a $2.50 per passenger ticket fee for each flight leg, and provide for more armed air marshals on commercial jets, enhanced anti-hijacking training for flight crews, and strengthen cockpit doors to prevent access during flights.
(Bill sponsored by Hollings D-SC)
Bill passed 100-0: R 49-0; D 50-0; I 1-0 on 10/11/2001.
Presidential Action: Signed on 11/19/2001
- Use of Force Authorization-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
SJRES 23 Authorization for Use of Military Force
Vote to pass a joint resolution that would authorize the president to use all necessary and appropriate force against the nations, organizations, or people that he determines planned, authorized, committed, or aided the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001, or that harbored such organizations or people, to prevent future acts of terrorism against the United States.
(Joint resolution sponsored by Daschle, D-SD)
Joint resolution passed 98-0: R 47-0; D 50-0; I 1-0 on 09/14/2001.
Presidential Action: Signed on 09/18/2001
- Anti-Terrorism Authority-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
HR 3162 Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism (USA PATRIOT) Act of 2001
Vote to pass a bill that would expand law enforcement's power to investigate suspected terrorists. The bill would allow disclosure of wiretap information among certain government officials, authorize limited disclosure of secret grand jury information to certain government officials, and authorize the attorney general to detain foreigners he suspects are tied to terrorism. It also would make it easier for law enforcement to track voice and Internet communications using surveillance techniques and would strengthen laws to combat money laundering. Most of the bill's intelligence-gathering provisions would sunset after four years.
(Bill sponsored by Sensenbrenner R-WI)
Bill passed (thus cleared for the president) 98-1: R 49-0; D 48-1; I 1-0 on 10/25/2001.
Presidential Action: 10/26/2001-Outcome:Passed
- Airline Relief-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1450 Air Transportation Safety and System Stabilization Act
Vote to pass a bill that would provide $5 billion in grants and up to $10 billion in loan guarantees to airline companies to compensate for losses incurred as a result of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The bill also would create a federal board to review how the loan guarantees are handled, and establish a victim's compensation fund to compensate victims killed or injured in the attacks, or their survivors. Airlines' liability for damages related to the September 11 attacks would be limited to the amount of insurance coverage they had for such incidents.
(Bill sponsored by Daschle, D-SD)
Bill passed 96-1: R 45-1; D 50-0; I 1-0 on 09/21/2001.
Note: Senate vitiated previous passage pursuant to the order on September 21,2001
Category: Defense
- Use of Force Authorization-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
SJRES 23 Authorization for Use of Military Force
Vote to pass a joint resolution that would authorize the president to use all necessary and appropriate force against the nations, organizations, or people that he determines planned, authorized, committed, or aided the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001, or that harbored such organizations or people, to prevent future acts of terrorism against the United States.
(Joint resolution sponsored by Daschle, D-SD)
Joint resolution passed 98-0: R 47-0; D 50-0; I 1-0 on 09/14/2001.
Presidential Action: Signed on 09/18/2001
- Fiscal 2002 Defense Authorization-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1438 National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2002
Vote to pass a bill that would authorize $343.5 billion for military activities of the Defense Department, military construction, and defense activities of the Department of Energy. The bill also would authorize an additional round of base realignment and closures in 2003.
(Bill sponsored by Levin D-MI)
Bill passed 99-0: R 48-0; D 50-0; I 1-0 on 10/02/2001.
Presidential Action: Signed on 12/28/2001
Category: Foreign Aid and Policy Issues
- Iran and Libya Sanctions-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S 1218 ILSA Extension Act of 2001
Vote to pass a bill that would extend for five years the Iran-Libya Sanctions Act, which authorizes the president to impose sanctions on foreign firms that invest more than $20 million in the development of oil and gas industries in Iran or Libya.
(Bill sponsored by Sarbanes, D-MD)
Bill passed 96-2: R 47-2; D 48-0; I 1-0 on 07/25/2001.
- Vietnam Trade Bill-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
HJRES51 Vietnam Trade Bill-Passage
Vote to pass a joint resolution that would grant annual normal trade relations status to Vietnam. The resolution would allow Vietnamese imports to receive the same tariffs as those of other U.S. trading partners.
(Bill sponsored by Armey R-TX)
Bill passed 88-12: R 39-10; D 48-2; I 1-0 on 10/03/2001.
Presidential Action: Signed on 10/16/2001
- Iran and Libya Energy-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
HR 1954 ILSA Extension Act of 2001
Motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill that would extend for five years the Iran-Libya Sanctions Act, which allows sanctions to be imposed on domestic and foreign individuals and companies that invest in Iranian and Libyan oil and gas industries. A choice of six sanctions could be imposed on those with investments of more than $20 million annually. Note: A two-thirds majority of those present and voting [277 in this case] is required for passage under suspension of the rules.
(Motion by Gilman, R-NY; Bill sponsored by Gilman, R-NY)
Motion agreed to 409-6: R 207-1; D 200-5; I 2-0 on 07/26/2001.
Presidential Action: Signed on 08/03/2001
Category: Transportation Issues
- Aviation Security-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1447 Aviation Security Act
Vote to pass a bill that would allow for the federal government to take over security at airports and make baggage screeners federal employees. It would also levy a $2.50 per passenger ticket fee for each flight leg, and provide for more armed air marshals on commercial jets, enhanced anti-hijacking training for flight crews, and strengthen cockpit doors to prevent access during flights.
(Bill sponsored by Hollings D-SC)
Bill passed 100-0: R 49-0; D 50-0; I 1-0 on 10/11/2001.
Presidential Action: Signed on 11/19/2001
- Airline Relief-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1450 Air Transportation Safety and System Stabilization Act
Vote to pass a bill that would provide $5 billion in grants and up to $10 billion in loan guarantees to airline companies to compensate for losses incurred as a result of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The bill also would create a federal board to review how the loan guarantees are handled, and establish a victim's compensation fund to compensate victims killed or injured in the attacks, or their survivors. Airlines' liability for damages related to the September 11 attacks would be limited to the amount of insurance coverage they had for such incidents.
(Bill sponsored by Daschle, D-SD)
Bill passed 96-1: R 45-1; D 50-0; I 1-0 on 09/21/2001.
Note: Senate vitiated previous passage pursuant to the order on September 21,2001
Category: Congressional Affairs
- Fiscal 2002 Defense Appropriations-COLA Increase
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
HR 3338 Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2002
Vote on relevance of the Feingold, D-Wisconson, amendment that would eliminate the cost of living adjustment pay increase beginning in fiscal 2002.
(Amendment sponsored by Feingold, D-WI; Bill sponsored by Lewis R-CA)
Amendment ruled not relevant 33-65: R 18-30; D 15-35; I 0-0 on 12/07/2001.
Presidential Action: Signed on 1/10/2002
Category: Budget Spending and Taxes
- ESEA-Student Assessment
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1: Better Education for Students and Teachers (BEST) Act
Vote to pass an amendment that would authorize $200 million in fiscal 2002 and additional funds to be determined for the following six years to provide grants to help states develop assessment systems that describe student achievement in a variety of abilities. This amendment would modify a previous substitute amendment by Jeffords, R-VT, which, among other provisions, would reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act for seven years and allow parents of under-performing schools to use federal funds for private tutoring.
(Amendment sponsored by Wellstone, D-MN; Substitute amendment sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT; Bill sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT)
Amendment adopted 50-47: R 2-46; D 48-1 on 05/10/01.
Note: Senate incorporated this measure into companion measure HR 1. Passed in lieu of this measure 06/14/2001.
- Tax Cut Reconciliation-Democratic Substitute
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
HR 1836 Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001
Vote on a motion to waive the Budget Act with respect to the Grassley, R-IA, point of order with respect to the Daschle substitute amendment. A point of order is made during floor proceedings to assert that the rules of procedure are being violated, and the Senate chair decides whether or not the point of order is valid. The substitute amendment would create a new 10 percent income tax bracket for taxable income up to $12,000 for couples and $6,000 for singles. Among other provisions, the substitute amendment would raise the standard deduction for married couples, increase the child tax credit to $750, and eliminate the alternative minimum tax for people with incomes up to $80,000. The substitute amendment would also increase the general estate tax exemption to $2 million per person and $4 million per couple. Family owned businesses and farms would be exempt from the estate tax at $4 million per person and $8 million per couple.
A three-fifths majority vote (60) of the total Senate is required to waive the Budget Act. [Subsequently, the chair upheld the point of order and the amendment fell.]
(Motion sponsored by Daschle, D-SD; Point of Order made by Grassley R-IA; Substitute amendment sponsored by Daschle, D-SD; Bill sponsored by Thomas, R-CA)
Motion rejected 41-58: R 0-49; D 41-9 on 05/22/01.
Presidential Action: Signed on 06/07/2001
- Economic Stimulus-Democratic Substitute
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
HR3090 Economic Security and Recovery Act of 2001
Motion to waive the Budget Act. The amendment would provide approximately $73 billion in fiscal 2002 for economic stimulus measures, including $14 billion for refund checks to taxpayers that did not receive refunds during the summer of 2001. It also would provide $31 billion for unemployment benefits and health care benefits for displaced workers and agriculture assistance. It also would provide $8 billion in fiscal 2002, and $15 billion over 10 years for homeland security, including bioterrorism, food safety, law enforcement and postal programs.
Note: A three-fifths majority vote (60) of the total Senate is required to waive the Budget Act. (Subsequently, the chair upheld the point of order and the amendment failed.)
(Motion sponsored by Baucus D-MT; Bill sponsored by Thomas R-CA)
Motion rejected 51-47: R 0-47; D 50-0; I 1-0 on 11/14/2001.
Senate Passsage Vote: 02/14/2002-Outcome:Passed
Presidential Action: Signed on 03/09/2002-Outcome:Passed
-
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
H Con Res 83
Vote to pass an amendment that would increase budget authority and outlays by $63.5 billion over 11 years for agriculture spending, including $5 billion for fiscal 2001.
(Amendment sponsored by Grassley, R-Iowa; Bill sponsored by Nussle, R-IA)
Amendment adopted 51-49: R 50-0; D 1-49 on 04/04/2001.
- ESEA-School Renovation and Construction
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1 Better Education for Students and Teachers (Best) Act
Vote to adopt an amendment that would increase the amount school districts are allowed to invest from $5 million to $10 million without being subject to arbitrage rebate requirements. In addition, it would allow private activity bonds for for-profit corporations to issue tax-exempt bonds to build public schools. A related amendment sponsored by Harkin (D-IA) to authorize more than $1.6 billion for the construction and renovation of public school buildings was rejected, as was an amendment sponsored by Enzi (R-WY) which would have used money already appropriated for 2001 to make emergency repairs to certain public schools. These amendments would modify a previous substitute amendment by Jeffords, R-VT which, among other provisions, would reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act for seven years and allow parents of under-performing schools to use federal funds for private tutoring.
(Amendment sponsored by Hutchinson, R-AR; Substitute amendment sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT; Bill sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT)
Amendment adopted 83-16: R 44-6; D 39-10 on 05/16/01.
Note: Senate incorporated this measure into companion measure HR 1. Passed in lieu of this measure 06/14/2001.
- ESEA-Community Technology Centers
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1: Better Education for Students and Teachers (Best) Act
Vote to pass an amendment that would provide $100 million to make possible the creation of 1,000 community-based technology centers with computers. Necessary funding would be available in the next six fiscal years to continue the program. This amendment modifies a previous substitute amendment by Jeffords, R-VT which, among other provisions, would reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act for seven years and allow parents of under-performing schools to use federal funds for private tutoring.
(Amendment sponsored by Mikulski, D-MD; Substitute amendment sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT; Bill sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT)
Amendment passed 50-49: R 1-49; D 49-0 on 05/09/01.
Note: Senate incorporated this measure into companion measure HR 1. Passed in lieu of this measure 06/14/2001.
- Bankruptcy Overhaul-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
HR 333 Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2001
Vote to pass a bill that would require debtors able to repay $10,000 or 25 percent of their debts over five years to file under Chapter 13 bankruptcy rather than Chapter 7. Chapter 13 bankruptcy requires a reorganization of debts under a repayment plan. Chapter 7 bankruptcy allows debtors to discharge their debts by turning over all non exempt property to the bankruptcy trustee, who then converts it to cash for distribution to the creditors. The bill, as amended, would prohibit a debtor from exempting more than $125,000 in equity, adjusted for changes in the cost of living, in real or personal property that the debtor uses as a residence. It would also prohibit the disclosure of the name of a child who is a minor in any public records associated with a bankruptcy proceeding where the debtor is required to provide information regarding the child. The bill would prevent lenders who have violated the Truth in Lending Act from escaping claims against them by declaring bankruptcy. The bill also would require the General Accounting Office to conduct a study of the effects of the bankruptcy bill and report back to Congress within two years.
Note: Before passage, the Senate struck all after the enacting clause, and inserted the text of the Leahy, D-VT, substitute amendment, as modified, into the bill.
(Bill sponsored by Gekas, R-PA)
Bill passed 82-16: R 45-2; D 36-14; I 1-0 on 07/17/2001.
-
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
H Con Res 83
Vote to pass an amendment that would make up to $300 billion available for a Medicare prescription drug benefit for 2002 through 2011. The money would come from the budget's contingency fund. The amendment would also require a Medicare overhaul.
(Amendment sponsored by Grassley, R-IA; Bill sponsored by Nussle, R-IA)
Amendment adopted with Vice President Cheney casting a "yea" vote, 50-50 : R 49-1; D 1-49 with Vice President Cheney casting a yea vote on 04/03/2001.
- Tax Cut Reconciliation-Conference Report
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would reduce taxes by $1.35 trillion through 2010 through income tax cuts, relief of the marriage penalty, a phase-out of the federal estate tax, doubling the child tax credit, and providing incentives for retirement savings.
HR 1836 Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001
Vote to pass a bill that would reduce taxes by $1.35 trillion through 2010 through income tax cuts, relief of the marriage penalty, a phase-out of the federal estate tax, doubling the child tax credit, and providing incentives for retirement savings. The bill would create a new 10 percent tax rate retroactive to January 1 for the first $6,000 for single taxpayers, $10,000 for single heads of households and $12,000 for married couples filing jointly. Beginning July 1, current tax rates of 15 percent, 28 percent, 31 percent, and 39.6 percent would drop to 15, 27, 30, 35 and 38.6 percent. People subject to the new 10 percent tax rate would receive rebate checks by October 1 of $300 for single filers, $500 for heads of households and $600 for couples filing jointly. The bill would double the $500-per-child tax credit by 2010 and make it refundable. The plan would also raise the estate tax exemption to $1 million in 2002 and phase out the tax over 10 years, as well as phase out restrictions from 2006 through 2009 on personal exemptions and itemized deductions claimed by upper-income taxpayers. It would set the standard deduction for married couples and the income eligible for the 15 percent rate bracket at double that of singles beginning in 2005. Among other provisions, the bill would also increase annual limits on contributions to Individual Retirement Accounts to $5,000 and ease rollover rules to make it easier for employees to move pension savings to another plan when they change jobs.
A conference report is generated by a committee made up of members from both the House and Senate to reconcile differences between the two houses on provisions of a bill passed by both chambers. Once the conference report goes to the floor, it cannot be amended.
(Bill sponsored by Thomas, R-CA)
Conference report adopted (thus cleared for the president) 58-33: R 46-2; D 12-31 on 05/26/01.
Presidential Action: Signed on 06/07/2001
- Bankruptcy Overhaul-Predatory Loans
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
S 420: Bankruptcy Reform Act of 2001
Vote to table [kill] an amendment that would prohibit the declaring of bankruptcy by lenders who have violated the Truth in Lending Act if their borrowers have filed claims against them. The Truth in Lending Act requires full disclosure of loan terms to borrowers. The amendment was offered to a bill that would make it easier for courts to change debtors from Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which allows most debts to be dismissed, to Chapter 13, which requires a repayment plan.
(Tabling motion sponsored by Hatch, R-UT; Amendment sponsored by Schumer, D-NY; Bill sponsored by Grassley, R-IA)
Tabling motion rejected 44-55: R 43-6; D 1-49 on 03/13/2001. The Schumer amendment was subsequently adopted by voice vote.
- ESEA-Class Size Reduction
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1 Better Education for Students and Teachers (Best) Act
Vote to adopt an amendment that would authorize a federal program aimed at reducing class sizes. The plan would assist states and local education agencies in recruiting, hiring and training 100,000 new teachers by continuing a program created by Former President Bill Clinton. $2.4 billion in fiscal 2002 and funds necessary for the next six years would also be authorized. This amendment would modify a previous substitute amendment by Jeffords, R-VT which, among other provisions, would reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act for seven years and allow parents of under-performing schools to use federal funds for private tutoring.
(Amendment sponsored by Murray, D-WA; Substitute amendment sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT; Bill sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT)
Amendment rejected 48-50: R 0-50; D 48-0 on 05/15/01.
Note: Senate incorporated this measure into companion measure HR 1. Passed in lieu of this measure 06/14/2001.
- Bankruptcy Overhaul-Homestead Exemption Cap
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
S 420: Bankruptcy Reform Act of 2001
Vote to table [kill] an amendment that would set a limit of $125,000, adjusted for cost of living changes, on the amount a debtor could claim for their residence exemption in a bankruptcy settlement. The primary residence of a family farmer would not apply under this measure. The amendment was offered to a bill that would make it easier for courts to change debtors from Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which allows most debts to be dismissed, to Chapter 13, which requires a repayment plan.
(Tabling motion sponsored by Brownback, R-KS; Amendment sponsored by Kohl, D-WI; Bill sponsored by Grassley, R-IA)
Tabling motion rejected 39-60: R 36-13; D 3-47 on 03/15/2001. The Kohl amendment was subsequently adopted by voice vote.
- Bankruptcy Overhaul-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
S 420: Bankruptcy Reform Act of 2001
Vote to pass a bill that would make it easier for courts to change debtors from Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which allows most debts to be dismissed, to Chapter 13, which requires a repayment plan, if the debtor is able to repay $10,000 or 25 percent of their debts over five years. Among other provisions, the bill would set a limit of $125,000 on the amount a debtor could claim for their residence exemption in a bankruptcy settlement, prohibit the declaring of bankruptcy by lenders who have violated fair lending laws if their borrowers have filed claims against them, and prohibits children's names from being included in bankruptcy filings. In addition, the bill would prevent people from using bankruptcy to avoid paying court-ordered judgments for crimes that include blocking access to abortion clinics or churches. The Senate rejected several amendments, including those that would restrict the amount of credit given to people under 21 without proof of parental responsibility and prevent lenders who charge an annual interest rate that exceeds 100 percent for short-term loans from collecting unpaid loans from debtors in bankruptcy court.
(Bill sponsored by Grassley, R-IA)
Bill passed 83-15: R 47-2; D 28-12 on 03/15/2001.
-
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
H Con Res 83
Vote to pass a concurrent resolution to set the framework for the fiscal 2002 federal budget. The 10-year budget plan calls for tax cuts of $1.18 trillion over the ten years and $85 billion in fiscal 2001. The publicly held dept would be reduced by approximately $1.1 trillion and discretionary spending would be capped at $670 billion from fiscal 2002-2011. Among other provisions, the resolution would eliminate the marriage penalty tax by increasing the tax cut by $69 billion, increase funding for veterans health care by $1.7 billion by redirecting the same amount from the proposed tax cut, and provide for an increase of $967 million in fiscal 2002 for veterans discretionary spending. The Senate rejected amendments that would increase funding for environmental programs by $50 billion and set aside $50 billion for debt reduction, as well as an amendment that would provide an additional $70 billion over 10 years for tax credits to small business to purchase health insurance and make health insurance fully deductible.
(Resolution sponsored by Nussel, R-IA)
Resolution passed 65-35: R 50-0; D 15-35 on 04/06/2001.
-
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
H Con Res 83
Vote to pass an amendment that would not allow reduction of revenue levels more than the president's proposed $1.6 trillion tax cut and that would include a $60 billion economic stimulus package for fiscal 2001. This is an amendment to Domenici's, R-NM, substitute 2002 budget amendment that would cap discretionary spending at $660.7 billion and include an $845.7 billion contingency fund that could be used for debt reduction, tax cuts, or unforeseen spending. The Domenici substitute amendment also calls for $1.6 trillion in tax cuts in 2002-2011 and $60 billion in tax cuts in 2001.
(Amendment sponsored by Domenici, R-NM; Substitute Amendment sponsored by Domenici, R-NM; Bill sponsored by Nussel, R-IA)
Amendment adopted 51-49: R 50-0; D 1-49 on 04/05/2001.
- Tax Cut Reconciliation-Marriage Penalty
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
Vote to adopt an amendment that would accelerate tax relief for married couples by expanding the standard deduction and 15 percent income tax bracket for couples.
HR 1836: Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001
Vote to adopt an amendment that would accelerate tax relief for married couples by expanding the standard deduction and 15 percent income tax bracket for couples. The elimination of the marriage penalty tax would be offset by reducing the marginal tax rate reductions for the top two rate brackets.
(Amendment sponsored by Conrad, D-ND; Bill sponsored by Thomas, R-CA)
Amendment rejected 44-56: R 2-48; D 42-8 on 05/17/01.
Presidential Action: Signed on 06/07/2001
- Tax Cut Reconciliation-Tuition Deduction
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
HR 1836: Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001
Vote to adopt an amendment that would increase the tax deduction for college tuition costs from $5,000 to $12,000 for single filers with a gross income of less than $65,000 and joint filers with a gross income of less than $130,000. The plan would also increase the tax credit on student loan interest from $500 to $1,000. The expense would be offset by limiting the cut in the top estate tax rate from 55 percent to 53 percent by 2007, instead of the 45 percent previously proposed. The date of repeal for the estate tax would remain January 1, 2011.
(Amendment sponsored by Schumer, D-NY; Bill sponsored by Thomas, R-CA)
Amendment rejected 43-55: R 1-48; D 42-27 on 05/17/01.
Presidential Action: Signed on 06/07/2001
- Tax Cut Reconciliation-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
HR 1836 Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001
Vote to pass a bill that would reduce all income tax rates and make other tax cuts totaling $1.35 trillion over 11 years. The bill would increase the standard deduction for married couples subject to the 15 percent bracket to double that of singles by 2005, gradually repeal the estate tax, and double the $500 child tax credit by 2011. Individual Retirement Accounts [IRA's] annual contribution limits would increase to $5,000 by 2011. The bill, as amended, would also permanently extend the research and development tax credit and expand the adoption tax credit. Among amendments rejected: a plan to establish tax credits for investments in renewable energy technologies and incentives to improve energy efficiency in construction; a plan to delay the implementation of the tax and spending proposals unless specified publicly held debt reduction targets are met; a plan to prohibit a reduction in the top tax rate until Congress has enacted and the President has signed legislation to provide a prescription drug benefit; a tax credit to employers who hire impoverished veterans; a deduction for eligible long-term care insurance premiums that would be funded using the surplus.
(Bill sponsored by Thomas, R-CA)
Bill passed 62-38: R 50-0; D 12-38 on 05/23/01.
Presidential Action: Signed on 06/07/2001
-
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
H Con Res 83: Fiscal 2002 Budget
Vote to adopt the conference report on the concurrent resolution to adopt a 10-year budget plan that calls for approximately $1.35 trillion in tax cuts through fiscal 2011. The plan would include a $100 billion stimulus package and would cap discretionary spending at $661.3 billion. Discretionary spending allotments would be $325.1 billion for defense and $336.2 billion for non-defense. A conference report is generated by a committee made up of members from both the House and Senate to reconcile differences between the two houses on provisions of a bill passed by both chambers. Once the conference report goes to the floor, it cannot be amended.
(Bill sponsored by Nussel, R-IA)
Conference report adopted 53-47; R 48-2; D 5-45 on 05/10/01.
- Bankruptcy Overhaul-Credit Cards for Minors
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
Vote to table [kill] an amendment that would restrict the amount of credit given to people under 21 without proof of parental responsibility.
S 420: Bankruptcy Reform Act of 2001
Vote to table [kill] an amendment that would set a limit of $2500 on credit cards given to people under 21. The limit could be raised if a parent cosigns or the minor proves independent means to repay the debt. The amendment was offered to a bill that would make it easier for courts to change debtors from Chapter 7 bankruptcy, which allows most debts to be dismissed, to Chapter 13, which requires a repayment plan.
(Tabling motion sponsored by Sessions, R-AL; Amendment sponsored by Feinstein, D-CA; Bill sponsored by Grassley, R-IA)
Tabling motion agreed to 55-42: R 46-2; D 9-40 on 03/13/2001.
-
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
H Con Res 83
Vote to pass an amendment that would reduce the size of the $1.6 trillion tax cut by $448 billion while increasing education spending by $250 billion and providing an increase of approximately $224 billion for debt reduction over 10 years.
(Amendment sponsored by Harkin, D-IA; Bill sponsored by Nussle, R-IA)
Amendment adopted 53-47: R 0-50; D 47-3 on 04/04/2001.
Category: Business and Consumers
- Ergonomics Rules Disapproval-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
S J Res 6: A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval of the rule submitted by the Department of Labor under chapter 8 of title 5, U.S. Code, relating to ergonomics.
Vote to pass a resolution to give no enforcement authority or power to ergonomics rules submitted by the Labor Department during the Clinton Administration. These rules would force businesses to take steps to prevent work-related repetitive stress disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the cost of the new regulations would be $4.5 billion annually, business groups argue the costs would likely be closer to $100 billion. The rules would have required employers to educate workers about ways to prevent injuries from repetitive motions such as typing, sorting or lifting heavy loads. If a worker reported an injury, employers would have had to reconfigure the workplace to prevent recurrences. Workers who reported injuries lasting seven days or longer would have been eligible for compensation of up to 90 percent of their salary for as long as 90 days if they had been unable to work.
(Bill sponsored by Nickles, R-OK)
Resolution passed 56-44: R 50-0; D 6-44 on 03/06/2001.
Presidential Action: Signed on 03/20/2001
Category: Veterans Issues
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(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
H Con Res 83
Vote to pass a concurrent resolution to set the framework for the fiscal 2002 federal budget. The 10-year budget plan calls for tax cuts of $1.18 trillion over the ten years and $85 billion in fiscal 2001. The publicly held dept would be reduced by approximately $1.1 trillion and discretionary spending would be capped at $670 billion from fiscal 2002-2011. Among other provisions, the resolution would eliminate the marriage penalty tax by increasing the tax cut by $69 billion, increase funding for veterans health care by $1.7 billion by redirecting the same amount from the proposed tax cut, and provide for an increase of $967 million in fiscal 2002 for veterans discretionary spending. The Senate rejected amendments that would increase funding for environmental programs by $50 billion and set aside $50 billion for debt reduction, as well as an amendment that would provide an additional $70 billion over 10 years for tax credits to small business to purchase health insurance and make health insurance fully deductible.
(Resolution sponsored by Nussel, R-IA)
Resolution passed 65-35: R 50-0; D 15-35 on 04/06/2001.
Category: Education
- ESEA Reauthorization-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S 1 Better Education for Students and Teachers [BEST] Act
The bill would also add a 'Straight A's' demonstration program which would allow seven states and 25 school districts to spend most federal funds for any educational purpose as long as test scores improve. The bill would allow parents of children in underperforming schools to use federal funds for private tutoring, and provide for the full funding of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act [which strengthens academic expectations and accountability for children with disabilities]. Note: Before passage, the Senate struck all after the enacting clause and inserted the text of S 1 as amended by the Jeffords, I-VT, substitute amendment.
(Bill sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT)
Bill passed 91-8: R 43-6; D 47-2; I 1-0 on 06/14/01.
Note: Senate incorporated this measure into companion measure HR 1. Passed in lieu of this measure 06/14/2001.
- ESEA-Community Technology Centers
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1: Better Education for Students and Teachers (Best) Act
Vote to pass an amendment that would provide $100 million to make possible the creation of 1,000 community-based technology centers with computers. Necessary funding would be available in the next six fiscal years to continue the program. This amendment modifies a previous substitute amendment by Jeffords, R-VT which, among other provisions, would reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act for seven years and allow parents of under-performing schools to use federal funds for private tutoring.
(Amendment sponsored by Mikulski, D-MD; Substitute amendment sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT; Bill sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT)
Amendment passed 50-49: R 1-49; D 49-0 on 05/09/01.
Note: Senate incorporated this measure into companion measure HR 1. Passed in lieu of this measure 06/14/2001.
- Elementary & Secondary Education Act-Teacher Liability
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1: Better Education for Students and Teachers (Best) Act
Vote to pass an amendment that would protect teachers from lawsuits linked to disciplinary measures that are carried out in conformity with local, state and federal laws.
Excluded from liability is protection of misconduct involving hiring investigations as well as criminal actions. The amendment would pre-empt inconsistent states laws, but permit states to pass legislation to opt out of the federal law. This amendment modifies a previous substitute amendment by Jeffords, R-VT which, among other provisions, would reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act for seven years and allow parents of under-performing schools to use federal funds for private tutoring.
(Amendment sponsored by McConnell, R-KY; Substitute amendment sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT; Bill sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT)
Amendment adopted 98-1: R 49-1; D 49-0 on 05/09/01.
Note: Senate incorporated this measure into companion measure HR 1. Passed in lieu of this measure 06/14/2001.
- Tax Cut Reconciliation-Tuition Deduction
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
HR 1836: Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001
Vote to adopt an amendment that would increase the tax deduction for college tuition costs from $5,000 to $12,000 for single filers with a gross income of less than $65,000 and joint filers with a gross income of less than $130,000. The plan would also increase the tax credit on student loan interest from $500 to $1,000. The expense would be offset by limiting the cut in the top estate tax rate from 55 percent to 53 percent by 2007, instead of the 45 percent previously proposed. The date of repeal for the estate tax would remain January 1, 2011.
(Amendment sponsored by Schumer, D-NY; Bill sponsored by Thomas, R-CA)
Amendment rejected 43-55: R 1-48; D 42-27 on 05/17/01.
Presidential Action: Signed on 06/07/2001
- Elementary and Secondary Education Act-Title 1 Funding
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1: Better Education for Students and Teachers (BEST) Act
Vote to pass an amendment that would increase funding to local educational agencies under Title 1 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 [ESEA] by $132 billion over 10 years. The intention of ESEA Title 1 is to provide compensatory education for children of low-income families enabling them to catch up academically with children from higher-income families. The amendment would increase funds for the program, currently set at $8.6 billion, to $44.2 billion in 2011. This would allow funds to reach 75 percent of all eligible children within 4 years and all eligible children within 10 years.
(Amendment sponsored by Dodd, D-CT; Bill sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT)
Amendment adopted 79-21: R 29-21; D 50-0 on 05/03/2001.
Note: Senate incorporated this measure into companion measure HR 1. Passed in lieu of this measure 06/14/2001.
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(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
H Con Res 83
Vote to pass an amendment that would reduce the size of the $1.6 trillion tax cut by $448 billion while increasing education spending by $250 billion and providing an increase of approximately $224 billion for debt reduction over 10 years.
(Amendment sponsored by Harkin, D-IA; Bill sponsored by Nussle, R-IA)
Amendment adopted 53-47: R 0-50; D 47-3 on 04/04/2001.
- ESEA-School Renovation and Construction
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1 Better Education for Students and Teachers (Best) Act
Vote to adopt an amendment that would increase the amount school districts are allowed to invest from $5 million to $10 million without being subject to arbitrage rebate requirements. In addition, it would allow private activity bonds for for-profit corporations to issue tax-exempt bonds to build public schools. A related amendment sponsored by Harkin (D-IA) to authorize more than $1.6 billion for the construction and renovation of public school buildings was rejected, as was an amendment sponsored by Enzi (R-WY) which would have used money already appropriated for 2001 to make emergency repairs to certain public schools. These amendments would modify a previous substitute amendment by Jeffords, R-VT which, among other provisions, would reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act for seven years and allow parents of under-performing schools to use federal funds for private tutoring.
(Amendment sponsored by Hutchinson, R-AR; Substitute amendment sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT; Bill sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT)
Amendment adopted 83-16: R 44-6; D 39-10 on 05/16/01.
Note: Senate incorporated this measure into companion measure HR 1. Passed in lieu of this measure 06/14/2001.
- ESEA Reauthorization-Conference Report
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
HR 1 No Child Left Behind Act of 2001
Vote to adopt a conference report that would overhaul educational proposals to increase school accountability and reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act for six years. The agreement would require states to test students annually in reading and math in grades three through eight, provide new accountability measures for schools that fail to make adequate yearly progress, and give schools greater flexibility to spend federal funds. It would include about $26.3 billion for federal elementary and secondary education programs and $13.5 billion for Title I programs for disadvantaged children in fiscal 2002.
Note: The bill no longer contains the original voucher provision.
(Bill sponsored by Boehner, R-OH)
Conference report adopted 87-10: R 44-3; D 43-6; I 0-1 on 12/18/2001.
Presidential Action: Signed on 01/08/2002
- ESEA-Class Size Reduction
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1 Better Education for Students and Teachers (Best) Act
Vote to adopt an amendment that would authorize a federal program aimed at reducing class sizes. The plan would assist states and local education agencies in recruiting, hiring and training 100,000 new teachers by continuing a program created by Former President Bill Clinton. $2.4 billion in fiscal 2002 and funds necessary for the next six years would also be authorized. This amendment would modify a previous substitute amendment by Jeffords, R-VT which, among other provisions, would reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act for seven years and allow parents of under-performing schools to use federal funds for private tutoring.
(Amendment sponsored by Murray, D-WA; Substitute amendment sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT; Bill sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT)
Amendment rejected 48-50: R 0-50; D 48-0 on 05/15/01.
Note: Senate incorporated this measure into companion measure HR 1. Passed in lieu of this measure 06/14/2001.
- ESEA-Student Assessment
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1: Better Education for Students and Teachers (BEST) Act
Vote to pass an amendment that would authorize $200 million in fiscal 2002 and additional funds to be determined for the following six years to provide grants to help states develop assessment systems that describe student achievement in a variety of abilities. This amendment would modify a previous substitute amendment by Jeffords, R-VT, which, among other provisions, would reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act for seven years and allow parents of under-performing schools to use federal funds for private tutoring.
(Amendment sponsored by Wellstone, D-MN; Substitute amendment sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT; Bill sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT)
Amendment adopted 50-47: R 2-46; D 48-1 on 05/10/01.
Note: Senate incorporated this measure into companion measure HR 1. Passed in lieu of this measure 06/14/2001.
- Elementary and Secondary Education Act-Annual Testing
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S1: Better Education for Students and Teachers (BEST) Act
Vote to pass an amendment that would let states postpone or suspend new required annual academic progress testing for grades 3-8 if the funds, including money from the federal government, are not available for the development and administration of the test.
The amendment would increase funds for the program, which are set at $370 million for 2002, by $10 million per year.
(Amendment sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT; Bill sponsored by Jeffords, R-VT)
Amendment adopted 93-7: R 43-7; D 50-0 on 05/03/01.
Note: Senate incorporated this measure into companion measure HR 1. Passed in lieu of this measure 06/14/2001.