No controversial bills in first week of lame-duck

House Democratic leaders have decided against putting major controversial bills on the floor in the first week of a lame-duck session following the Republican victory in the midterm elections, according to a schedule released by House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer's office Friday evening.

In doing so, they'll avoid fights over a child nutrition bill favored by first lady Michelle Obama, a measure, known as the DREAM Act, that would give citizenship to those who serve in the military or attend college, and legislation sending checks to seniors in lieu of a cost-of-living adjustment to Social Security benefits.

Both parties plan to hold leadership elections during the week -- with Democrats set to pick between Hoyer and Majority Whip Jim Clyburn (D-S.C.) for the post of minority whip in the next Congress.

The schedule released by Hoyer's office includes dozens of non-controversial items that leaders expect will attract support from at least two-thirds of the House, including resolutions calling on the world soccer governing body to bring its championship to the United States and honoring the late New York Yankees public address announcer Bob Sheppard.

More significant legislation likely to be considered includes a reauthorization of programs in the Justice Department and a bill aimed at facilitating teleworking.

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The danger zone will be the month of December when congress returns after Thanksgiving.