What follows is the last in a series of entries which have provided a year-by-year record of John Kerry's voting record in the US Senate, and have been summarized and excerpted from the
Project Vote Smart - Key Votes listing for the Senator. This entry covers Sen. Kerry's voting record for the year,
2003 and 2004.
Previous Year's entries:
1988,
1989,
1990,
1991,
1992,
1993,
1994,
1995,
1996,
1997,
1998,
1999,
2000,
2001,
2002.
Summary for 2003Category: Transportation Issues
- Fiscal 2004 FAA Reauthorization - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would authorize $43.5 billion in funding for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) from fiscal 2004 through fiscal 2006.
HR 2115 Flight 100--Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act
Vote to pass a bill that would authorize $43.5 billion in funding for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) from fiscal 2004 through fiscal 2006. FAA operations would be authorized at $23.2 billion. The bill also would authorize $11 billion for the Airport Improvement Program and $8.9 billion for the Airway Facilities Improvement Program and broaden the formula for determining the Airport and Airways Trust Fund share of the FAA budget through fiscal 2006. The bill would require the Transportation Department to identify airports with considerable delay problems, and any such airports would be required to study expansion projects or deal with a loss of federal funding. Certain selected airports would be allowed to use an expedited environmental review method for building projects. It also would set up an Aviation Security Capital Fund and raise by 12 the number of slots at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport for round trips beyond a 1,250-mile perimeter.
Note: Before passage, the Senate struck all after the enacting clause and inserted the text of S 824, as amended.
(Bill sponsored by Young, AK-R)
Bill passed 94-0: R 51-0; D 43-0 (ND 36-0, SD 7-0); I 0-0 on 06/12/2003.
Category: Trade Issues
- U.S.-Chile Trade - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would put into effect a trade agreement between the United States and Chile.
HR 2738 United States-Chile Free Trade Agreement Implementation Act
Vote to pass a bill that would put into effect a trade agreement between the United States and Chile. The agreement would reduce tariffs and trade barriers between the United States and Chile. The trade pact would decrease duties and tariffs on agricultural and textile products. It would also open markets for services. The trade pact would establish intellectual property safeguards and would call for enforcement of environmental and labor standards.
(Bill sponsored by DeLay, TX-R)
Bill Passed (thus cleared for the president) 66-31: R 43-7; D 23-23; I 0-1; on 07/31/2003.
- U.S.-Singapore Trade - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would put into effect a trade agreement between the Uinted States and Singapore.
HR 2739 United States-Singapore Free Trade Agreement Implementation Act
Vote to pass a bill that would put into effect a trade agreement between the Uinted States and Singapore. The trade agreement would reduce tariffs and trade barriers between the United States and Singapore. The agreement would remove tariffs on goods and duties on textiles, and open markets for services The agreement would also establish intellectual property, environmental and labor standards.
(Bill sponsored by DeLay, TX-R)
Bill Passed (thus cleared for the president) 66-32: R 44-7; D 22-24 (ND 16-21, SD 6-3); I 0-1 on 07/31/2003.
Category: Regulatory Issues
- Fiscal 2004 FAA Reauthorization - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would authorize $43.5 billion in funding for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) from fiscal 2004 through fiscal 2006.
HR 2115 Flight 100--Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act
Vote to pass a bill that would authorize $43.5 billion in funding for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) from fiscal 2004 through fiscal 2006. FAA operations would be authorized at $23.2 billion. The bill also would authorize $11 billion for the Airport Improvement Program and $8.9 billion for the Airway Facilities Improvement Program and broaden the formula for determining the Airport and Airways Trust Fund share of the FAA budget through fiscal 2006. The bill would require the Transportation Department to identify airports with considerable delay problems, and any such airports would be required to study expansion projects or deal with a loss of federal funding. Certain selected airports would be allowed to use an expedited environmental review method for building projects. It also would set up an Aviation Security Capital Fund and raise by 12 the number of slots at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport for round trips beyond a 1,250-mile perimeter.
Note: Before passage, the Senate struck all after the enacting clause and inserted the text of S 824, as amended.
(Bill sponsored by Young, AK-R)
Bill passed 94-0: R 51-0; D 43-0 (ND 36-0, SD 7-0); I 0-0 on 06/12/2003
- Do-Not-Call Registry - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would give the Federal Trade Commission explicit authority to create a "do not call" list.
HR 3161 Do-Not-Call-Registry bill
Vote to pass a bill that would give the Federal Trade Commission explicit authority to create a "do not call" list. The Federal Trade Commission would begin enforcing this measure on Oct. 1, fines will be imposed on all violators.
(Bill sponsored by Tauzin, LA-R)
Bill Passed 95-0: R 50-0; D 44-0; I 1-0 on 09/25/2003.
Category: Family and Children Issues
- Virtual Child Pornography-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would make it a crime to pander or solicit child pornography
S 151 Enhance AMBER Alert bill
Vote to pass a bill that would make it a crime to pander or solicit child pornography. It would require the pandering to be connected to material that had been determined to be obscene. Prosecutors would be required to show that a suspect acted with intent. The bill's pandering provision would make it a crime to present material "or purported material" that conveys the idea that a minor is engaging in sexual behavior.
(Bill sponsored by Hatch, UT-R)
Bill Passed 84-0: R 47-0; D 37-0 (ND 31-0, SD 6-0); I 0-0; on 02/24/2003
- Protections for Children - Conference Report
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to adopt the conference report on the bill that would assign a national coordinator for AMBER alerts. for AMBER alerts, an alert system for missing children, within the Justice Department.
S 151 Enhance AMBER Alert bill
Vote to adopt the conference report on the bill that would assign a national coordinator for AMBER alerts. AMBER alerts is an alert system for missing children, make available additional protections for children and set stricter punishments for sex offenders. Two-time child sex offenders would be subjected to mandatory life sentence. The measure would make it a crime to pander visual illustrations of children as child pornography. It would increase maximum sentences for a number of specified crimes against children. It would also make it a crime to take a trip to foreign countries and engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor. It also would enlarge law enforcement's wiretap and electronic surveillance abilities in investigations of child pornography.
(Bill sponsored by Hatch, UT-R)
Conference Report Adopted 98-0: R 51-0; D 46-0; I 1-0; on 04/10/2003.
Category: Legal Issues
- Partial-Birth Abortion Ban-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill banning a medical procedure, which is commonly known as, "partial-birth" abortion
S 3 Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003
Vote to pass a bill banning a medical procedure, which is commonly known as, "partial-birth" abortion. Those who performed this procedure, would then face fines and up to two years in prison, the women to whom this procedure is performed on are not held criminally liable. This bill would make the exception for cases in which a women's life is in danger, not for cases where a women's health is in danger.
(Bill sponsored by Santorum, R-PA)
Passed 64-33: R 48-3; D 16-29:I 0-1 on 03/12/2003
Category: Energy Issues
- Energy Policy - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill would overhaul the nation's energy policies, reorganize the electricity system and make available approximately $15 billion in energy-related tax incentives.
HR 6 Energy Omnibus bill
Vote to pass a bill would overhaul the nation's energy policies, reorganize the electricity system and make available approximately $15 billion in energy-related tax incentives. It also would direct the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to establish a new CAFE standard within 15 months to two years. It would support the use of alternative energy and call for utilities to increase their dependence on renewable fuels.
Note: Before passage, the Senate struck all after the enacting clause and inserted the text of the energy bill from the 107th Congress (HR 4) as passed by the Senate on April 25, 2002.
(Bill sponsored by Tauzin, LA-R)
Bill Passed 84-14: R 48-3; D 35-11; on 07/31/2003.
- Energy Policy - Hydrogen Fuel Cells
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S 14 Energy Omnibus bill
Vote to pass an amendment that would call for the Department of Energy to set targets and timelines to maintain the production of 100,000 hydrogen-powered vehicles by 2010, and 2.5 million vehicles annually by 2020. It also would call for the department to set targets for the sale of hydrogen at fueling stations. The bill would require the Energy secretary to submit a yearly progress report to Congress.
Amendment sponsored by Dorgan, ND-D
Amendment adopted 67-32: R 20-31; D 46-; I 1-0 on 06/10/2003.
- Energy Policy - Foreign Oil Dependence
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S 14 Energy Omnibus bill
Vote to pass an amendment that would call for the president to develop and implement measures to lessen dependence on foreign oil by 1 million barrels per day by 2013. It would also require the president to submit a yearly progress report to Congress.
( Amendment sponsored by Landrieu, LA-D)
Amendment adopted 99-1: R 50-1; D 48-0 (ND 39-0, SD 9-0); I 1-0
on 06/10/2003.
Category: Budget Spending and Taxes
- Fiscal 2004 Budget Resolution - ANWR Oil Drilling
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S Con Res 23 Budget resolution FY2004
Vote to pass an amendment that would strike or remove, language in the resolution, S.ConRes 23, that would permit oil drilling and exploration in part of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) in Alaska.
(Admendment sponsored by Boxer, D-CA; Bill sponsored by Nickles, R-OH )
Admendment passed 52-48: R 8-43; D 43-5: I 1-0 on 03/19/2003
- Fiscal 2004 Budget Resolution-Adoption
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
S Con Res 23 Budget resolution FY2004
Vote to adopt the concurrent resolution to approve a 11-year budget plan that calls for a 10-year package with $350 billion in tax cuts, a $400 billion Medicare overhaul and $791 billion in discretionary spending for fiscal 2004. The resolution includes a $100 billion reserve fund for the cost of the war with Iraq, $263 billion for a Social Security reserve fund, and $13 billion for veterans to receive concurrent disability and retirement benefits. This resolution sets the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2004.
(Resolution sponsored by Nickles, R-OK)
Resolution adopted 56-44: R 50-1; D 6-42:I 0-1 on 03/26/2003.
- Tax Reductions - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
HR 2 Jobs and Growth Tax Act of 2003
Vote to pass a bill that would reduce taxes by $350 billion in fiscal 2004. The bill contains a provision that would exempt 50 percent of dividend payments from taxation in 2003, and exempt all such income from 2004 through 2006. Businesses investing $400,000 or less yearly would be able to write off up to $100,000 of those expenses from 2003 through 2007. Declines in individual income tax rates already in place would be accelerated. For one year, taxes on corporate overseas income would be reduced by 85 percent. States and localities would receive $20 billion for fiscal relief. The child tax credit would be raised to $1,000. Also included in the bill would be provisions to curtail the use of corporate tax shelters, including corporate inversion and expatriation. Also a provision, is included, to raise the exemption amounts under the alternative minimum tax.
Note: Before passage, the Senate struck all after the enacting clause and inserted the text of S 1054, as amended, into the bill
(Bill sponsored by Thomas, CA-R)
Bill passed 51-49: R 48-3; D 3-45; I 0-1 on 05/15/2003.
- Tax Reductions - Conference Report
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
HR 2 Jobs and Growth Tax Act of 2003
Vote to adopt the conference report on the bill that would make available $350 billion in tax breaks over 11 years. It would provide $20 billion in state aid that consists of $10 billion for Medicaid and $10 billion to be used at states' judgment. The agreement contains a new top tax rate of 15 percent on capital gains and dividends through 2007 (5 percent for lower-income taxpayers in 2007 and no tax in 2008). Income tax cuts enacted in 2001 and planned to take effect in 2006 would be accelerated. The child tax credit would be raised to $1,000 through 2004. The standard deduction for married couples would be double that for a single filer through 2004. Tax breaks for businesses would include expanding the deduction that small businesses could take on investments to $100,000 through 2005.
Note: Adopted (thus cleared for the president),with Vice President Cheney casting a "yea" vote to break the tie
(Bill sponsored by Thomas, CA-R)
Conference Report Adopted 50-50: R 48-3; D 2-46; I 0-1on 05/23/2003.
- Fiscal 2004 Budget Resolution - Conference Report
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
HconRes95 Budget resolution FY2004
Vote to adopt the conference report on the concurrent resolution that would establish broad spending and revenue targets over the next 10 years. The conference report would agree to a tax cut of up to $550 billion to be protected by reconciliation rules.
Note: Adopted, with Vice President Cheney casting a "yea" vote
(Bill sponsored by Representative Nussle, R-IA)
Conference Report adopted 50-50: R 49-2; D 1-47: I 0-1 on 04/11/2003
Category: Environmental Issues
- Fiscal 2004 Budget Resolution - ANWR Oil Drilling
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted YES.
S Con Res 23 Budget resolution FY2004
Vote to pass an amendment that would strike or remove, language in the resolution, S.ConRes 23, that would permit oil drilling and exploration in part of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) in Alaska.
(Admendment sponsored by Boxer, D-CA; Bill sponsored by Nickles, R-OH )
Admendment passed 52-48: R 8-43; D 43-5: I 1-0 on 03/19/2003
- Forest Thinning -Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would authorize $760 million for thinning dense forests.
HR 1904 Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003
Vote to pass a bill that would authorize $760 million for thinning dense forests. The bill would allow up to 20 million acres of federal land, which is at high risk of catastrophic wildfire, to have treatment. Preliminary court injunctions against logging projects would be limited to 60 days. Which are then subject to renewal once the court has reviewed them. The Forest Service and the Bureau of Land management are required to completely maintain the restoration of old-growth trees and maximize the preservation of large trees. It also would decrease the number of reviews required by the National Environmental Policy Act
(Bill sponsored by Scott, R-CO)
Category: Appropriations
- Fiscal 03 Omnibus Appropriations-Adoption
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to adopt a conference report that would make available $397.4 billion in fiscal 2003 spending for all Cabinet departments and government agencies included in the 11 unfinished spending bills.
HJRes2 Fiscal 2003 Omnibus Appropriations- Conference Report
Vote to adopt a conference report that would make available $397.4 billion in fiscal 2003 spending for all Cabinet departments and government agencies included in the 11 unfinished spending bills.The included bills are: Agriculture, Energy and Water , Treasury-Postal, , VA-HUD, Legislative Branch, District of Columbia, Commerce-Justice-State, Labor-HHS, Transportation, Interior and Foreign Operations. The agreement also provides a 0.65 percent across-the-board reduction to many programs to offset additional increased funding primarily for education. It would give $1.5 billion for state election overhaul efforts, $10 billion for intelligence and military activities, an additional $3.1 billion for drought relief, and an increase in Medicare payments to physicians by $54 billion over 10 years.
(Bill sponsored by Young,R-FL)
Bill adopted 76-20: R 49-1; D 27-18; I 0-1 on 02/13/2003.
ill Status:
Bill Number: HJ Res-108th Congress (2003-2004)
House Passage Vote: 01/08/2003-Outcome: Passed
Senate Passage Vote: 01/23/2003-Outcome Passed
House Conference Report Vote: 02/13/2003
Senate Conference Report Vote:02/13/2003
Presidential Action: 02/20/2003
- Fiscal 04 Legislative Branch Appropriations - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would appropriate $3.6 billion in fiscal 2004 spending for Congress and its affiliated agencies.
HR 2657 Legislative Branch Appropriations, FY 2004 bill
Vote to pass a bill that would appropriate $3.6 billion in fiscal 2004 spending for Congress and its affiliated agencies. The bill would also appropriate $1.89 billion in emergency supplemental spending for fiscal 2003. The Capitol Police would receive $240 million, including money for staff expansion, and $47.8 million would be provided to cover cost overruns for the Capitol Visitors Center. The supplemental spending would provide $100 million for AmeriCorp. Also provided would be funding for Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster assistance funds.
(Bill sponsored by Kingston, GA-R)
Bill Passed 85-7: R 44-7; D 40-0; I 1-0 on 07/11/2003.
- Fiscal 04 Energy and Water Appropriations - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would provide $27.4 billion for the Energy Department, the Army Corps of Engineers, water projects, parts of the Interior Department and other independent agencies, in spending for fiscal 2004.
HR 2754 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2004
Vote to pass a bill that would provide $27.4 billion for the Energy Department, the Army Corps of Engineers, water projects, parts of the Interior Department and other independent agencies, in spending for fiscal 2004. Included in this bill would be $6.5 billion for Energy Department nuclear weapons, and $4.4 billion for Army Corps of Engineers water projects.
(Bill sponsored by Hobson, R-OH)
Passed 92-0: R 49-0; D 42-0; I 1-0 on 9/16/2003.
- Fiscal 04 Transportation, Treasury -Congress Pay Raise
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to table or kill an amendment that would block a COLA or cost of living adjustment, for members of Congress in fiscal 2004.
HR 2989 Transportation, Treasury, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2004
Vote to table or kill an amendment that would block a COLA or cost of living adjustment, for members of Congress in fiscal 2004.
(Bill sponsored by Ernest, R-OK, Motion sponsored by Stevens, R-AK)
- Fiscal 04 Agriculture Appropriations - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a blill that would provide $79.6 billion for agriculture, rural development, and nutrition programs in fiscal 2004.
HR 2673 Agriculture Appropriations, FY 2004 bill
Vote to pass a blill that would provide $79.6 billion for agriculture, rural development, and nutrition programs in fiscal 2004. This would include $27.7 billion for food stamps, $11.4 billion for child nutrition, $3.37 billion for the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation fund, and $17.28 billion for the Commodity Credit Corporation.
(Bill sponsored by Bonilla, R-TX)
Bill Passed 93-1: R 48-1; D 44-0; I 1-0 on 11/6/2003.
- Fiscal 04 Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations -Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would provide, $472.2 billion, including $137.6 billion in discretionary spending for the Labor, Health and Human Services and Education departments and related agencies, in fiscal 2004
HR 2660 Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2004
Vote to pass a bill that would provide, $472.2 billion, including $137.6 billion in discretionary spending for the Labor, Health and Human Services and Education departments and related agencies, in fiscal 2004. The bill would include $2.2 billion for special education. The bill would increase Title I funding by $666 million. It also would prohibit funds in the bill from being used to broadcast or implement any regulation that take away eligibility for overtime for any worker.
(Bill sponsored by Regula, R-OH)
Bill passed 94-0: R 49-0; D 44-0 (ND 37-0, SD 7-0); I 1-0 on 9/10/2003.
- Fiscal 04 Defense Appropriations - Adoption
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to adopt the conference report on the bill that would appropriate $368.2 billion in fiscal 2004 spending for defense and national security.
HR 2658 Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2004
Vote to adopt the conference report on the bill that would appropriate $368.2 billion in fiscal 2004 spending for defense and national security. The measure would grant multi-year procurement authority to the Navy to purchase five Virginia-class submarines, $400 million would be made available for equipment for the National Guard and Reserves, $376 million would be provided for improvements to the Bradley fighting vehicle and the M1 tank, and also make available funds to buy 22 F-22 fighters. Funding would also be continued in this measure for the Terrorism Information Awareness program. The measure will increase military pay by 4.1 percent, allocate $128 million for increases in family separation allowances and imminent danger pay for troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, and appropriate $4.5 billion for the Special Operations Command
(Bill sponsored by Lewis, R-CA)
Conference Report on the bill adopted 95-0: R 50-0; D 44-0; I 1-0 on 09/25/2003.
- Fiscal 03 Omnibus Appropriations - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
HJRes2 Fiscal 2003 Omnibus Appropriations - Passage
Vote to pass a joint resolution that would make available about $391 billion in fiscal 2003 spending for all Cabinet departments and government agencies included in the 11 unfinished spending bills. The included bills are: Agriculture, Treasury-Postal, Transportation, VA-HUD, Legislative Branch, Energy and Water, District of Columbia, Labor-HHS, Commerce-Justice-State, Interior and Foreign Operations. Also the resolution would make changes to the law that establishes the Homeland Security department by: doing away with a provision that shields vaccine makers from lawsuits, by expanding the number of colleges and universities that could take part in homeland security research, and by limiting the department's ability to grant contracts to companies that reincorporate overseas to prevent paying U.S. taxes.
(Bill sponsored by Young,R-FL)
Bill passed 69-29: R 50-1; D 19-27; I 0-1 on 01/23/2003.
- Fiscal 04 Homeland Security Appropriations - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would provide $29.3 billion in fiscal 2004 discretionary spending for the Department of Homeland Security and related agencies.
HR 2555 Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2004
Vote to pass a bill that would provide $29.3 billion in fiscal 2004 discretionary spending for the Department of Homeland Security and related agencies. The bill would provide $516.3 million for department operations, management and oversight; $4.9 billion for customs and border protection; $229.4 million for citizenship and immigration services; $5.4 billion for the Transportation Security Administration; $6.9 billion for the Coast Guard; $871.4 million for research and development; $3.6 billion for the Office of Domestic Preparedness; $3.6 billion for emergency preparedness and response; and $1.1 billion for the Secret Service.
(Bill sponsored by Harold, KY-R)
Bill Passed 93-1: R 50-0; D 42-1 (ND 36-0, SD 6-1); I 1-0 on 07/24/2003.
- Fiscal 04 Transportation-Treasury Appropriation-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would appropriate $90 billion in fiscal 2004 spending for the departments of Treasury and Transportation, the Postal Service, the Executive Office of the President and several independent agencies.
HR 2989 Transportation, Treasury, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2004
Vote to pass a bill that would appropriate $90 billion in fiscal 2004 spending for the departments of Treasury and Transportation, the Postal Service, the Executive Office of the President and several independent agencies. The Department of the Treasury would get $11.2 billion, $10.3 billion for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Also included in this measure would be $59 billion for the Department of Transportation, including $7.5 billion for the Federal Aviation Administration and $33.8 billion in federal aid for highways. The bill also provides $1.5 billion to provide grants for states to assist efforts to improve election technology and the administration of federal elections.
(Bill sponsored by Istook, R-OK)
Passed 91-3: R 47-3; D 43-0; I 1-0 on 10/23/2003.
- Fiscal 04 Defense Appropriations - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would appropriate $368.6 billion in fiscal 2004 for the Department of Defense and related agencies.
HR 2658 Defense Appropriations, FY 2004 bill
Vote to pass a bill that would appropriate $368.6 billion in fiscal 2004 for the Department of Defense and related agencies. The bill would include $98.9 billion for military personnel, $115.6 billion for operations and maintenance, $74 billion for procurement, and $63.6 billion for research, , testing and evaluation of weapons equipment and technology.
(Bill sponsored by Lewis, CA-R)
Bill Passed 95-0: R 50-0; D 44-0; I 1-0 on 07/17/2003.
- Fiscal 04 Military Construction Appropriation-Adoption
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to adopt the conference report on the bill that would appropriate $20.2 billion, for the Department of the Interior, in fiscal 2004.
HR 2559 Military Construction Appropriations Act, 2004
Vote to adopt the conference report on the bill that would provide $9.3 billion for military construction. Included would be $1.1 billion to be spent on new family housing units for military personnel and their dependents. The bill would repeal, $496 million funds that had previously been appropriated. These funds were mostly for constructions projects in Germany and Korea, also to facilitate the redeployment of United States forces to other international bases, including those in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.
(Bill sponsored by Knollenberg, R-MI)
Conference Report Adopted 98-0: R 51-0; D 46-0; I 1-0 on 11/12//2003.
House Passage Vote: 6/26/03- Outcome: Passed
Senate Passage Vote: 7/11/03- Outcome: Passed
House Confernece Report Vote: 11/05/03- Outcome: Passed
Senate Conference Report Vote: 11/12/03- Outcome: Passed
Presidential Action: Signed on 11/22/03
Category: Technology and Communication
- Do-Not-Call Registry - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would give the Federal Trade Commission explicit authority to create a "do not call" list.
HR 3161 Do-Not-Call-Registry bill
Vote to pass a bill that would give the Federal Trade Commission explicit authority to create a "do not call" list. The Federal Trade Commission would begin enforcing this measure on Oct. 1, fines will be imposed on all violators.
(Bill sponsored by Tauzin, LA-R)
Bill Passed 95-0: R 50-0; D 44-0; I 1-0 on 09/25/2003.
- Media Ownership Rule Disapproval - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a joint resolution that would provide for congressional disapproval of the rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission, the rule would therefore have no force or effect.
S J RES 17 FCC Media Ownership bill
Vote to pass a joint resolution that would provide for congressional disapproval of the rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission, the rule would therefore have no force or effect. The rule in question deals with, broadcast media ownership and would allow media conglomerates to own more television stations and newspapers.
(Bill sponsored by Dorgan D-ND)
Bill passed 55-40: R 12-38; D 42-2 (ND 37-0, SD 5-2); I 1-0 on 9/16/2003.
- Unsolicited E-Mail - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would impose fines and jail time on individuals who are convicted of sending out large quantities of unsolicited e-mail commonly know as Spam.
S 877 CAN-SPAM Act of 2003
Vote to pass a bill that would impose fines and jail time on individuals who are convicted of sending out large quantities of unsolicited e-mail commonly know as Spam. The bill would ban the use of e-mail addresses that were collected from websites by automated software. It would also prohibit junk e-mailers from sending e-mail-to-e-mail addresses that had been randomly generated. The Federal Trade Commission would administer a do-not-Spam list. E-mail account holders would be allowed to submit their e-mail address to this list.
(Bill sponsored by Burns, R-MT)
Passed 97-0: R 51-0; D 45-0; I 1-0 1 on 10/22/2003.
Category: Congressional Affairs
- TransportationTreasury Appropriation-Congress Pay Raise
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to table or kill an amendment that would block a COLA or cost of living adjustment, for members of Congress in fiscal 2004.
HR 2989 Transportation, Treasury, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 2004
Vote to table or kill an amendment that would block a COLA or cost of living adjustment, for members of Congress in fiscal 2004.
(Bill sponsored by Ernest, R-OK, Motion sponsored by Stevens, R-AK)
Motion agreed to 60-34: R 29-19; D 30-15; I 1-0 on 10/23/2003.
Category: Abortion Issues
- Partial-Birth Abortion Ban-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill banning a medical procedure, which is commonly known as, "partial-birth" abortion
S 3 Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003
Vote to pass a bill banning a medical procedure, which is commonly known as, "partial-birth" abortion. Those who performed this procedure, would then face fines and up to two years in prison, the women to whom this procedure is performed on are not held criminally liable. This bill would make the exception for cases in which a women's life is in danger, not for cases where a women's health is in danger.
(Bill sponsored by Santorum, R-PA)
Passed 64-33: R 48-3; D 16-29:I 0-1 on 03/12/2003
- 'Partial-Birth' Abortion Ban - Adoption
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
S 3 Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003
Vote to pass a bill banning a medical procedure, which is commonly known as, "partial-birth" abortion. The procedure would be allowed only in cases in which a women's life is in danger, not for cases where a women's health is in danger. Those who performed this procedure, would face fines and up to two years in prison, the women to whom this procedure is performed on are not held criminally liable.
(Bill sponsored by Santorum, R-PA)
Conference Report Adopted 64-34: R 47-3; D 17-30; I 0-1 on 10/21/2003
Category: Crime Issues
- Unsolicited E-Mail - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would impose fines and jail time on individuals who are convicted of sending out large quantities of unsolicited e-mail commonly know as Spam.
S 877 CAN-SPAM Act of 2003
Vote to pass a bill that would impose fines and jail time on individuals who are convicted of sending out large quantities of unsolicited e-mail commonly know as Spam. The bill would ban the use of e-mail addresses that were collected from websites by automated software. It would also prohibit junk e-mailers from sending e-mail-to-e-mail addresses that had been randomly generated. The Federal Trade Commission would administer a "do-not-Spam" list. E-mail account holders would be allowed to submit their e-mail address to this list.
(Bill sponsored by Burns, R-MT)
Category: Defense
- Fiscal 03 War Supplemental-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass the bill that would appropriate $79.5 billion in fiscal 2003 discretionary spending for military operations in Iraq, homeland security, and international counterterrorism activities.
S 762 Supplemental Appropriations Act to Support Department of Defense Operations in Iraq for Fiscal Year 2003
Vote to pass the bill that would appropriate $79.5 billion in fiscal 2003 discretionary spending for military operations in Iraq, homeland security, and international counterterrorism activities. The bill would make available $62.6 billion for the war in Iraq, $5.2 billion in international assistance, $2.4 billion for reconstruction of Iraq, $2.7 billion in support to airlines and their employees and $4.6 billion for homeland security.
(Bill sponsored by Stevens, R-AK)
Bill passed 93-0: R 48-0; D 44-0; I 1-0 on 04/03/2003.
- Fiscal 2004 Defense Authorization - Conference Report
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to adopt of the conference report on the bill that would authorize for fiscal 2004, $401.3 billion for defense and national security spending.
HR 1588 National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2004
Vote to adopt of the conference report on the bill that would authorize for fiscal 2004, $401.3 billion for defense and national security spending. The bill would provide that certain disabled military retirees would be able to receive both their retirement and disability benefits at the same time. It would lengthen the military's TRICARE health coverage to National Guard, reservists and their families if such service members have been called to active duty. The bill would grant that the Air Force immediately lease up to 20 Boeing 767 aerial refueling tanker planes. The Air Force would also be able to buy up to 80 more.
(Bill sponsored by Duncan, R-CA)
- Fiscal 2004 Defense Authorization-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass the bill that would authorize $400.5 billion in appropriations for defense, military construction and defense-related work for the Department of Energy
S 1050 Fiscal 2004 Defense Authorization
Vote to pass the bill that would authorize $400.5 billion in appropriations for defense, military construction and defense-related work for the Department of Energy. The bill would authorize $9.1 billion for ballistic missile defense, $75.6 billion for procurement and $63.2 billion for research and development. Also authorized would be, $130 billion for operations and maintenance, $9.5 billion for military construction and family housing and $16.7 billion for Energy Department defense programs
(Bill sponsored by Warner, R-VA)
Bill passed 98-1: R 51-0; D 46-1; I 1-0 on 05/22/2003.
- Fiscal04 Supplemental for Iraq and Afghanistan-Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
S 1689 Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for Iraq and Afghanistan Security and Reconstruction Act, 2004
Vote to pass a bill that would appropriate $86.5 billion in supplemental spending for military operations and reconstruction in Iraq and Afghanistan, in Fiscal 2004. The bill would provide $10.3 billion as a grant to rebuild Iraq, this includes $5.1 billion for security and $5.2 billion for reconstruction costs. It would allocate $65.6 billion for military operations and maintenance and $1.3 billion for veterans medical care. $10 billion would be provided as a loan that would be converted to a grant. For this to happen, 90 percent of all bilateral debt incurred by the former Iraqi regime of Saddam Hussein, would have to be forgiven by other countries.
Note: Senate then Vitiated previous passage of this bil and it was returned to the Calendar. Vivate means to undo or negate a previous action. Vitiation requires the unanimous consent of the Senate.
(Bill sponsored by Stevens, R-AK)
Bill Passed 87-12: R 50-0; D 37-11 (ND 31-8, SD 6-3); I 0-1 on 10/17/2003.
Category: Senior and Social Security Issues
- Prescription Drug Benefit - Adoption
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to adopt the conference report on the bill that would create a prescription drug benefit for Medicare recipients.
HR 1 Medicare Prescription Drug and Modernization Act of 2003
Vote to adopt the conference report on the bill that would create a prescription drug benefit for Medicare recipients. Starting in 2006, prescription coverage would be made available through private insurers to seniors. Seniors would pay a monthly premium of an estimated $35 in 2006. Individuals enrolled in the plan would cover the first $250 of annual drug costs themselves, and 25 percent of all drug costs up to $2, 250. Benefits would stop until personal drug costs exceeded $3, 600. After this point a beneficiary would cover 5 percent of all costs. Low-income seniors would qualifie for discounts on deductibles, premiums and co-payments. The government would offer a fallback prescription drug plan in regions were no private plans had made a bid. In both 2004 and 2005, beneficiaries would have a drug discount card to use in order to reduce prices by up to 25 percent. Over a 10 year time period medicare payemetns to managed care planes would increase by $14.2 billion. A pilot project would begin in 2010 in which Medicare would compete with private insurers to provide coverage for doctors and hospitals costs in six metropolitan areas for six years. The importation of drugs from Canada would be approved only if the Health and Human Services Department determines there is no safety risks and that consumers would be saving money. Starting in 2007, Part B premiums would increase for certain higher-income recipients. Health care accounts, which would pay for health care services not covered by an individuals insurances could be set up by certain individuals under 65 years of age, as well as Mediciare recipients.
(Bill sponsored by Hastert, R-IL)
Conference Report Adopted 54-44: R 42-9; D 11-35; I 1-0 on 11/25/2003.
Category: Health Issues
- Prescription Drug Benefit - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would authorize $400 billion over 10 years to create a prescription drug benefit for Medicare recipients beginning in 2006.
S 1 Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit bill
Vote to pass a bill that would authorize $400 billion over 10 years to create a prescription drug benefit for Medicare recipients beginning in 2006. Seniors would be allowed to remain within the traditional fee-for-service program or seniors would have the option to switch to a Medicare Advantage program that includes prescription drug coverage. Private insurers would provide prescription drug coverage. Private Insurers would engage in competitive bidding to be awarded two-year regional contracts by the Center for Medicare Choices under the Department of Health and Human Services. If a region had fewer than two qualified bidders, a federal "fallback" drug coverage plan would be set for one year, after which the competitive bidding would resume. Enrolled seniors would pay a $275 deductible and an average monthly premium of $35. Annual drug costs beyond the deductible and up to $4,500 would be divided equally between the beneficiary and the insurer, after this benefits would end until the beneficiary's out-of-pocket drug costs reached $3,700, when the insurer would be required to pick up 90 percent of drug costs. Beneficiaries with incomes below 160 percent of the poverty level would be eligible for added assistance.
Note: Note: June 27, 2003,in the session that began and the Congressional Record dated June 26, 2003.
(Bill sponsored by Frist, TN-R)
Bill Passed 76-21: R 40-10; D 35-11 (ND 29-8, SD 6-3); I 1-0, on 06/26/2003
Category: Executive Branch
- Secretary of Homeland Security
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to confirm the nomination of Tom Ridge as Secretary of Homeland Security.
Ridge Nomination-Confirmation
Vote to confirm President Bush's nomination of Tom Ridge of Pennsylvania to be secretary of Homeland Security.
(Confirmed 94-0: R 51-0; D 42-0, I 1-0; on 01/22/2003)
- Leavitt Nomination - Confirmation
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote on the confirmation of President Bush's nomination of Michael O. Leavitt of Utah to be administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Leavitt Nomination - Confirmation
Vote on the confirmation of President Bush's nomination of Michael O. Leavitt of Utah to be administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Confirmed 88-8: R 51-0; D 36-8;I 1-0 on 10/28/2003.
_________________________________________________________________________
Summary for 2004
Category: Transportation Issues
- Highway Funding - Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would authorize $318 billion, over a six-year period, for federal aid for highways, highway safety programs and transit programs.
S 1072 Highway Trust Fund bill
Vote to pass a bill that would authorize $318 billion, over a six-year period, for federal aid for highways, highway safety programs and transit programs. The total for funding would include the following $6 billion for safety programs, $56.5 billion for transit, and $255 billion for highways. It would also be ensured through this bill States receive a 95 percent return on their Highway Trust Fund contributions by the year 2009.
Note: Before passing this bill the Senate adopted the substitute amendment no. 2285, sponsored by Senator, Inhofe, R-OK, as amended by a vote of Voice Vote.
(Bill sponsored by Senator Inhofe R-OK)
Bill passed 76-21: R 34-17; D 41-4 (ND 35-2, SD 6-2); I 1-0 on 02/12/2004.
Category: Military Issues
- Treatment of Iraqi Prisoners - Adoption
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to adopt the resolution that would condemn the abuse of Iraqi prisoners at Abu Ghraib prison.
SRes 356 Marriage Penalty Tax bill
Vote to adopt the resolution that would condemn the abuse of Iraqi prisoners at Abu Ghraib prison. The legislation would join with the president in expressing apology for the humiliations suffered by the prisoners in Iraq and their families. It would also call for an investigation by members of the Senate and the president into the suspected abuses and recommend that all individuals responsible for such acts be held accountable. It also would express support for Americans who are "serving nobly" abroad to make better the lives of Iraqis.
(Bill sponsored by Senator Frist, R-TN)
Bill Adopted 92-0: R 47-0; D 44-0; I 1-0 on 05/10/2004
Category: Business and Consumers
- Corporate Tax Overhaul -- Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would repeal an export tax break for U.S. manufacturers that was ruled an illegal trade subsidy by the World Trade Organization.
S 1637 Jumpstart Our Business Strength (JOBS) Act
Vote to pass a bill that would repeal an export tax break for U.S. manufacturers that was ruled an illegal trade subsidy by the World Trade Organization. Over a 10-year period, the bill would replace the export tax break with more than $170 billion in new corporate tax breaks. Through the repeal of the export subsidy and other revenue-raising measures in the bill the tax dollars lost would be recovered. The bill would also include $18 billion in energy-related tax breaks. The bill, as amended, would prevent the Labor Department from implementing new rules issued to overhaul eligibility standards for overtime pay.
Note: Before passage, the Senate adopted by voice vote a Grassley, R-Iowa, substitute amendment.
(Bill sponsored by Representative Gerlach, R-PA)
Bill Passed 92-5: R 47-3; D 44-2; I 1-0 on 05/11/2004.
- Pension Funding Equity Act of 2004
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to adopt the conference report on a bill that would temporarily help worker pension plans remain in tact for the next two years until a long-term reform is set in place.
· The current standard that employers used to determine pension liabilities will be replaced
· Pension liabilities will be determined by a corporate bond rate until December 31, 2005, instead of a 30-year Treasury bond interest rate currently instilled
· Maintaining the pension plans will hopefully keep the taxpayer-funded Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation from paying benefits to underfunded pension plans
· Retirement security of millions of workers may be affected by the long-term reform Congress will be considering over the next two years
(Bill sponsored by Representative Boehner, R-OH)
Bill Adopted 78-19: R 44-7; D 33-12; I 1-0 on 04/08/2004.
Category: Legal Issues
- Unborn Victims of Violence Act 2004
(Complete Information)
John Kerry voted NO.
· The bill would charge the assailant with two crimes: one against the mother and one against the fetus
· The bill does not require proof that the offender had knowledge of the woman's pregnancy
· The bill does not require proof that the offender intended to harm the fetus
· The death penalty cannot be imposed for this offense
· Legal abortions are exempt under the bill
(Bill sponsored by Representative Hart, R-PA)
Bill Passed 61-38: R 48-2; D 13-35;I 0-1 on 03/25/2004.
- Victims' Right Bill
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
A vote to pass a bill that would protect the rights of crime victims.
·Provides a crime victim with the following rights: to be reasonably protected from the accused; to reasonable, accurate, and timely notice of, and to not be excluded from, any public proceeding involving or any release or escape of the accused; to be reasonably heard at any public proceeding involving release, plea or sentencing; to confer with the attorney for the government in the case; to full and timely restitution as provided in law; to proceedings free from unreasonable delay; and to be treated with fairness and with respect for his or her dignity and privacy.
·Requires the crime victim to be notified of, and accorded, these rights by the departments and agencies engaged in the detection, investigation, or prosecution of the crime.
·Grants the crime victim with the right to appeal in the case that the federal court denies any right of a crime victim under this act or under the federal rules of criminal procedure but this denial does not provide the grounds for a new trial.
·Repeals victims' rights provisions of the Victims' Rights and Restitution Act of 1990.
·Authorizes the Justice Department to make grants to develop, establish, and maintain programs for the enforcement of crime victims' rights; and for the development of a notification system of dates and criminal proceedings for crime victims.
(Bill sponsored by Senator Kyl, R-AZ)
Bill Passed 96-1: R 49-0; D 46-1; I 1-0 on 04/22/2004
Category: Budget Spending and Taxes
- Internet Tax Moratorium -- Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Passage of the bill, as amended, that would extend the Internet tax moratorium for four years
S 150 Internet Access Tax bill
Vote to pass the bill that would extend for four years the Internet tax moratorium. The bill would also prohibit two or more states from taxing the same online purchase. It would also bar taxes that specifically target Internet commerce. States and Localities would be permitted to tax Voice Over Internet Protocol service. The bill would also require a General Accounting Office study of the tax moratorium's effect on state and local economies.
(Bill sponsored by Senator Allen, R-VA)
Bill Passed 93-3: R 49-0; D 43-3 (ND 36-2, SD 7-1); I 1-0 on 04/29/2004.
- Fiscal 2005 Budget Resolution - Adoption
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to adopt the resolution that would adopt a five-year budget plan that would limit spending in fiscal 2005 discretionary, to $821 billion
S Con Res 95 Budget Appropriations, FY2005 resolution
Vote to adopt the resolution that would adopt a five-year budget plan that would limit spending in fiscal 2005 discretionary, to $821 billion. The resolution would provide $30 billion for a fund to support military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan for fiscal 2005. It would allow an $80.6 billion five-year tax cut package to be protected by reconciliation rules. Under pay-as-you-go rules (PAYGO), any tax cuts or spending increases would be required to be offset with revenue increases or spending cuts.
Note: This vote took place in the Congressional Record dated March 11, 2004.
(Bill sponsored by Senator Nickles, R-OK)
Bill Adopted 51-45: R 50-1; D 1-43; I 0-1 on 03/12/2004.
Category: Education
- Education IDEA Reauthorization -- Passage
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would authorize discretionary spending of $2.3 billion per year to make available for complete federal funding of 40 percent of the average per pupil expenditures for certain programs under the Individuals with Disabilities Act by 2011.
S 1248 Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2003
Vote to pass a bill that would authorize discretionary spending of $2.3 billion per year to make available for complete federal funding of 40 percent of the average per pupil expenditures for certain programs under the Individuals with Disabilities Act by 2011. The bill would streamline student discipline measures, adding such offenses as serious bodily injury to the reasons for suspension list. If a parent disputes a discipline decisions they would be granted an expedited hearing with 20 days. It would make sure that transient students, including those who are homeless or foster children, children of military personnel or those students who have transfer between districts, receive IDEA services under their individual education plans. The bill would also call for the inclusion of the Education Department in the National Children's Study. The National Children's Study is a study on the relationship between environmental factors and developmental disabilities.
.
(Bill sponsored by Senator Gregg, R-NH)
Bill Passed 95-3: R 50-0; D 45-2 (ND 36-2, SD 9-0); I 0-1 on 05/13/2004.
Category: Appropriations
- Ronald W. Reagan National Defense Authorization Act
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to pass a bill that would authorize $447.2 billion for the Defense Department and the Energy Department's national security programs.
S 2400 Ronald W. Reagan National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2005
Vote to pass a bill that would authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2005 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy. The bill would also prescribe personnel strengths for the 2005 fiscal year for the Armed Services, and for other purposes.
(Bill sponsored by Senator Warner, R-VA)
Bill Passed 97-0: R 49-0; D 47-0 (ND 38-0, SD 9-0); I 1-0; on 06/242004.
- Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2004
(Complete Information)
John Kerry did not vote.
Vote to adopt the conference report on the bill that would provide a total of $820 Billion in fiscal 2004.
This bill includes 7 other Appropriations Bills for Fiscal 2004.
Including:
Agriculture FY2004 Appropriations bill
$16.943 billion
Appropriations bill FY2004, Commerce, Justice, State
$37.8 billion
Appropriations bill FY2004, District of Columbia
$545 million
Appropriations bill FY2004