H.Con.Res.6 - Majority Rule Resolution (119th Congress)
Summary
H.Con.Res.6, the "Majority Rule Resolution," proposes to change the rules of the House and Senate to allow a simple majority vote to close debate on any question, overriding existing rules that may require a supermajority. The resolution aims to streamline the legislative process by making it easier to end debate and bring matters to a vote. It acknowledges the constitutional right of each house to change its rules at any time.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this resolution would lower the threshold needed to end debate in both the House and Senate. This could lead to faster legislative action and potentially reduce the influence of minority parties to obstruct or delay votes. The actual impact depends on how frequently the new rule is used and the specific issues it affects.
Potential Benefits
- Streamlined legislative process: Easier to bring debates to a close, potentially speeding up the passage of legislation.
- Reduced gridlock: Limits the ability of a minority to obstruct the will of the majority.
- Increased accountability: Makes it clearer who is supporting or opposing legislation, as fewer procedural hurdles exist.
- Greater efficiency: Could reduce the time and resources spent on protracted debates.
- Enhanced responsiveness: May allow Congress to respond more quickly to pressing national issues.
Potential Disadvantages
- Reduced minority rights: Could diminish the ability of the minority party to influence legislation or voice concerns.
- Potential for abuse: A simple majority could push through controversial legislation without adequate deliberation.
- Increased partisanship: May exacerbate political divisions if the majority party consistently overrides the minority.
- Decreased compromise: Could discourage bipartisan negotiations as the majority party has less incentive to compromise.
- Unintended consequences: The long-term effects on legislative norms and practices are uncertain.
Constitutional Alignment
Article I, Section 5, Clause 2 of the Constitution states that "Each House may determine the Rules of its Proceedings." This resolution explicitly acknowledges and exercises this rulemaking power. The resolution also respects the right of each house to change its rules at any time. It does not appear to violate any specific constitutional provision.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).