U.S. President Barack Obama signs the Don't Ask Don't Tell Repeal Act of 2010 in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, paving the way for gays and lesbians to serve openly in the U.S. military. (Evan Vucci/Associated Press)

The 111th U.S. Congress adjourned Wednesday after passing an act repealing the Don't Ask Don't Tell policy that prevented gays and lesbians from serving openly in the military.

The repeal act, one of U.S. President Barack Obama's signature campaign promises, was one of several key pieces of legislation passed by Congress in 2010. Some news outlets have described this "lame-duck," Democrat-controlled session of Congress as extremely productive despite escalating tensions between Democrats and Republicans and Obama's declining popularity.

"The 111th Congress made more law affecting more Americans since the Great Society legislation of the 1960s," Bloomberg reporters Lisa Lerer and Laura Litvan wrote.

The Minnesota Post published a summary of legislation passed by this "surprisingly 'do something' Congress."

• The new Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty with Russia.
• Health-care reform bill that mandates all Americans to have health insurance.
• New financial regulations on Wall Street.
• Health aid package for 9/11 emergency responders.
• The $819 billion economic stimulus package, which included tax cuts and new spending for education, technology and public works.