Adopting, with exceptions, the General Operating Rules of the House of Representatives (2021-2022) as the Rules of the House of Representatives for Special Session No. 1 (2023), further providing for supervision of Hall of the House and committee rooms, for debate, for time of meeting, for order of business, for standing committees, for powers and duties of standing committees and for Committee on Rules.
Impact
The adoption of HR21 will directly influence the operational governance of the House of Representatives by maintaining consistency in legislative procedures. By formally adopting these rules with specified exceptions, it underscores the emphasis on adherence to structured debate, management of committee sessions, and rules around attendance and voting. This continuity is seen as vital for the effective execution of legislative duties, particularly in a special session where time-sensitive issues may be addressed.
Summary
House Resolution 21 (HR21) is a resolution adopting, with exceptions, the General Operating Rules of the House of Representatives for the Special Session No. 1 of 2023. This resolution serves to regulate the management and functioning of the legislative assembly, ensuring that established protocols from the previous session are continued into this special session. Notably, HR21 modifies certain rules pertaining to the supervision of the Hall of the House, order of business, and roles of standing committees, among others, with the intent of providing a framework that supports effective governance during the session.
Sentiment
The sentiment towards HR21 appears to be generally positive, particularly among members familiar with the operational landscape of the House. The procedural structure it aims to maintain is viewed as necessary for ensuring that legislative sessions run smoothly and that members adhere to defined roles and responsibilities. However, the exceptions put forth may lead to some skepticism regarding the flexibility and adaptation of rules to fit pressing needs throughout the session.
Contention
While the resolution aims to facilitate orderly proceedings, there are points of contention regarding the exceptions to the rules, which could be perceived as a potential overreach or limitation on the ability of members to respond to immediate legislative needs. The balance between maintaining order and allowing for responsive governance may stir debates among legislators, particularly regarding the powers granted to committee chairs and the management of session time.
Adopting permanent rules for the House of Representatives, further providing for definitions, for order of business, for fiscal notes, for consideration of bills, for third consideration and final passage bills, for House and concurrent resolutions, for standing committees and subcommittees, for powers and duties of standing committees and subcommittees, for public hearings, for discharge of committees, for lay on the table and for previous question.