Vermont 2023-2024 Regular Session

Vermont House Bill HR0013

Caption

House resolution authorizing limited remote committee voting through the remainder of calendar year 2024

Impact

The passage of HR0013 is expected to have a substantial impact on the operational dynamics of the House committees. By enabling remote participation, the resolution aims to ensure that committee work can continue effectively even when some members cannot attend in person. This aligns with health guidelines from the Vermont Department of Health, making it a timely and relevant response to current health challenges. The inclusion of a framework for remote voting could set a precedent for future procedures in the legislature, showing adaptability in governance.

Summary

House Resolution 0013, introduced in the Vermont House of Representatives, authorizes limited remote committee voting for the remainder of the calendar year 2024. This measure is particularly significant in the context of ongoing public health concerns, allowing committee members who have tested positive for COVID-19 and are in isolation to participate in votes remotely. Additionally, it provides a provision for limited remote voting for any other reasons, although this can only be utilized for a maximum of three days.

Sentiment

General sentiment regarding HR0013 appears to be supportive among lawmakers who recognize the necessity of maintaining legislative functions while accommodating public health concerns. There is an understanding that flexibility in voting methods can enhance participation and responsiveness, thereby fostering a more inclusive legislative process despite physical limitations imposed by health crises.

Contention

While HR0013 is largely viewed as a practical solution, there may be points of contention related to the implications of remote voting on the legislative process. Questions may arise about the integrity of remote voting and the potential for decreased accountability when members vote from a distance. Nonetheless, the resolution has provisions intended to maintain transparency, such as notifying the committee chair and tracking remote votes, which may mitigate some concerns regarding oversight and participation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VT SR94

An original resolution authorizing expenditures by committees of the Senate for the periods March 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025, October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026, and October 1, 2026, through February 28, 2027.

VT H3528

House Rules, placement of bills on House Calendar

VT H2931

Relative to earnings limitations for Michael Sacco for calendar year 2023

VT H7569

HOUSE RESOLUTION AMENDING THE RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE YEARS 2025 AND 2026 (Amends the House Rules to enable any member to have up to three (3) bills that are held for further study either substituted in committee or allowed to have a committee vote for placement on the floor calendar exclusively at the discretion of the Speaker.)

VT H5036

HOUSE RESOLUTION AMENDING THE RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE YEARS 2023 AND 2024 (Amends the House Rules to enable any member to have up to 3 bills that are held for further study either substituted in committee or allowed to have a committee vote for placement on the floor calendar exclusively at the discretion of the Speaker.)

VT HR0005

House Rules Resolution - House Standing Committees

VT SR146

A resolution condemning the recent acts of violence, arson, and domestic terrorism committed throughout the United States

VT H5008

HOUSE RESOLUTION AMENDING THE RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE YEARS 2023 AND 2024 (Provides that members be limited to the introduction of 18 bills or resolutions during any legislative session with some exclusions.)

VT H5014

HOUSE RESOLUTION AMENDING THE RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE YEARS 2023 AND 2024 (Requires that members receive five (5) days advance notice when their bill is being heard before a committee.)

VT S0008

SENATE RESOLUTION AMENDING THE RULES OF THE SENATE FOR THE YEARS 2023-2024 (This resolution would amend the rules of the Senate relative to committees and would create a new committee on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.