[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 164 (Wednesday, December 19, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Page S8197]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                           ORDER OF BUSINESS

  Mr. REID. Mr. President, I filed cloture on the substitute amendment 
and the bill itself. I have had a conversation with the Republican 
leader earlier this evening. I am hopeful we can get a list--a short 
list--of amendments and a path to complete work on this bill as soon as 
possible. The FISA bill is something we have to do before we leave. I 
have said that several times this week. I have had conversations with 
several interested Members. I am hopeful we can get an agreement to 
complete action on this matter tomorrow.
  The DOD authorization conference report, they have completed that 
work. It has been tedious and very hard. Senator McCain and Senator 
Levin have worked very hard. We are hopeful we can lock in an agreement 
to vote on that tomorrow. We also have to confirm three district court 
judges. We hope to be able to do that tomorrow. We have a lot of work 
to do.
  The House, as we speak--how to say this in a kind way. They are 
trying to come up with something. They have had to work all day to come 
up with something. We are waiting for their ``something.''
  I suggest the absence of a quorum.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will call the roll.
  The assistant legislative clerk proceeded to call the roll.
  Mr. MERKLEY. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order 
for the quorum call be rescinded.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.
  Mr. MERKLEY. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent to speak as in 
morning business.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.

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