Jeff Bingaman: “I am hopeful that we will continue today down that path that will lead us to effective legislation in this Congress.”

It seems to me we have sort of three different issues, and maybe more than three.

I would like to announce for the information of the Senate and the public that a hearing has been scheduled before the Subcommittee on Water and Power of the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. The hearing will be held on Wednesday…

I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation be authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on December 19, 2012. The PRESIDING OFFICER. With objection, it is so ordered. Committee on Finance

I ask unanimous consent that further reading of the amendment be dispensed with. The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tempore. Without objection, it is so ordered. The amendment is as follows: (Purpose: To provide for the approval of an agreement…