The Senate returns in the morning, still in its first legislative day of the session.
Thursday marks the end of the timeline Majority Leader Harry Reid set out for reaching an agreement with Republicans on Senate rules changes. Reid previously said he would move rules changes with a simple majority vote if no agreement is reached.
If senators reach a deal on rules, they could take up the Sandy disaster aid bill as early as Thursday — although they could also leave for the weekend without taking any votes.
The House is expected to reconvene Feb. 4.
House
Not in session.
Senate
Returns at 9:30 a.m.
Roll call votes possible.
Hearings
Senate Foreign Relations holds a confirmation hearing on the nomination of John Kerry to be secretary of State. 10 a.m., 216 Hart
Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions holds a hearing on the state of the country’s mental health system, including issues related to gun violence. 10 a.m., 430 Dirksen
Senate Intelligence holds a closed hearing on pending intelligence matters. 2:30 p.m., 219 Hart
Lois Lerner, director of exempt organizations for the IRS, arrives for a House Oversight and Government Reform Committee hearing on the investigation of the IRS' targeting of political groups. Lerner invoked her Fifth Amendment right to not testify and caused a protest from some committee members when she offered an opening statement and engaged in dialogue with members before invoking the right.
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