SENATE VOTES

How members of Congress from Hampton Roads voted on major bills for the week ending June 13. NV means Not Voting.

National parks

For, 79; Against, 18

The Senate on June 10 agreed to start debate on a bill (HR 1957) that would greatly increase financial support of federal land agencies including the National Park Service and also boost U.S. government funding of state and local efforts to purchase and protect unspoiled acreage. The bill would allocate up to $6.5 billion over five years for repairs and maintenance at hundreds of national parks and related areas and also guarantee a $900 million annual budget for the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which funds efforts by federal and nonfederal agencies to acquire and conserve undeveloped land. A yes vote was to advance the bill toward expected final passage.

Charles Brown as Air Force chief

For, 98; Against, 0

In a unanimous vote, the Senate on June 9 confirmed Gen. Charles Q. Brown, Jr., as U.S. Air Force chief of staff. The four-star general becomes the first African-American to lead a U.S. military service, and will leave his post as commander of the Pacific Air Forces to assume the four-year term. A command pilot, Brown has recorded more than 2,900 flying hours including 130 hours in combat. There was no Senate floor debate on the nomination. A yes vote was to confirm Brown to lead the Air Force.

Key Votes Ahead

The Senate will resume debate in the week of June 15 on a funding bill for the National Park Service and Land and Water Conservation Fund, while the House will be in recess. The House is expected to take up a bill reforming policing practices in the week of June 22.

Representatives are:

Rep. Robert J. Wittman (R-Westmoreland), Rep. Elaine Luria (D-Virginia Beach), Rep. Donald McEachin (D-Henrico) and Rep. Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-Newport News).

Senators are:

Sen. Mark R. Warner (D) and Sen. Tim Kaine (D).