Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

H.R.es13 - H. RES. 13 (EH) - Engrossed in House (119th Congress)

Summary

H.Res. 13 is a resolution from the House of Representatives that designates the chairs of various standing committees. These committees cover a wide range of policy areas, from Agriculture to Ways and Means. The resolution was agreed to in the House on January 6, 2025.

The resolution itself does not create new laws or policies. It is an internal organizational action within the House of Representatives.

The selection of committee chairs is a crucial step in organizing the legislative agenda for the 119th Congress.

Expected Effects

The immediate effect of this resolution is the formal establishment of leadership within the House standing committees. This allows the committees to begin their work, including considering and drafting legislation.

The selection of chairs can influence the direction and priorities of each committee. The individuals chosen will have significant control over which issues are considered and how they are addressed.

Ultimately, this resolution sets the stage for legislative action on a variety of important issues.

Potential Benefits

  • Establishes leadership and structure within key House committees, enabling them to function effectively.
  • Allows committees to begin addressing important issues and drafting legislation.
  • Provides clarity and direction for the legislative agenda of the House of Representatives.
  • Ensures that experienced members of Congress are in positions to guide policy discussions.
  • Facilitates the efficient operation of the House of Representatives.

Potential Disadvantages

  • The selection of chairs may reflect partisan priorities, potentially leading to gridlock or biased outcomes.
  • The resolution itself does not address specific policy issues, so its impact on the American people is indirect.
  • Committee chairs have significant power, which could be used to advance narrow interests or suppress dissenting voices.
  • The resolution does not guarantee that all perspectives will be represented in committee deliberations.
  • Changes in committee leadership could disrupt ongoing legislative efforts.

Constitutional Alignment

This resolution aligns with Article I, Section 2 of the US Constitution, which grants the House of Representatives the power to choose its officers. The selection of committee chairs is an internal matter for the House and does not violate any constitutional principles.

The Constitution grants each house of Congress the power to determine its rules of proceedings. This resolution falls under that purview.

There are no apparent constitutional conflicts arising from this resolution.

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).