This was a vote on a resolution providing for an adjournment of Congress during the week of March 21-March 25, 2011. Such resolutions are known as “adjournment resolutions,” and are not debatable under House rules. Thus, no members spoke in favor or against the resolution. Generally, the majority party votes in favor of adjournment resolutions, while members of the minority party vote against them. 

Democrats had been sharply criticizing the Republican majority for funding the government through short-term “continuing resolutions.” These short-term measures prevented the government from shutting down, but Republicans refused to agree to a long-term budget plan until Democrats agreed to enact deep spending cuts to social programs. During “one minute” speeches (speeches given by members on any topic in the morning before legislative business begins), Rep. Joe Baca (D-CA) said: “…We've just seen 12 straight months of private sector jobs growth and there is a 2-year low in the unemployment rate. Now is the time for us to give our economy another push forward with a smart budget that invests in critical needs and lowers the deficit with intelligent spending cuts. But instead, what are we giving the American people? More uncertainty with another short-term extension. This short-term continuing resolution must stop. The American people need jobs, not misguided plans that undermine the future of our Nation. Unfortunately, the Republican-passed budget would give pink slips to 7,000 American workers. And now, with a continued assault on mortgage relief programs, the Republicans are ready to start handing out foreclosure notices, too. Let's stop this madness. Let's work together on a budget plan that create jobs, reduces the deficit, and keeps our families in their homes. “

The House agreed to this adjournment resolution by a vote of 232-197. Voting “yea” were 226 Republicans and 6 Democrats. 184 Democrats and 13 Republicans voted “nay.” As a result, the House agreed to a resolution providing for an adjournment of Congress during the week of March 21-March 25, 2011.