General Assembly; providing for a Joint Assembly, establishing schedule for 2022 Session schedule.
Impact
One notable aspect of HJR21 is its stipulation that any joint resolution creating or continuing a study requires a two-thirds vote from the members in each house. This requirement could lead to greater scrutiny and consideration before initiating studies, thereby impacting how legislative research is approached. Additionally, the resolution emphasizes electronic submission of bills, which reflects a shift towards modernizing legislative practices and potentially increasing accessibility and transparency.
Summary
HJR21, or House Joint Resolution 21, is a resolution that outlines procedural rules for the 2022 Regular Session of the Virginia General Assembly. Its primary focus is to establish guidelines for how the session will operate, including the introduction of bills, voting thresholds for certain types of legislation, and deadlines for legislative actions. The resolution aims to streamline the legislative process while maintaining order and efficiency in proceedings.
Contention
During discussions surrounding HJR21, concerns were raised by some legislators regarding the implications of strict procedural deadlines and the limitations on introducing new legislation. Critics argue that such restrictions may hinder the ability of coming to terms with unforeseen issues or necessary amendments that arise during the session. This concern highlights the tension between maintaining order in legislative processes and ensuring flexibility to address the needs of constituents effectively.
Providing for certain Joint Assemblies, establishing a schedule for the conduct of business coming before the 2026 Regular Session of the General Assembly of Virginia, and providing for legislative continuity between the 2026 and 2027 Regular Sessions of the General Assembly.