H.R.es204 - Removing a certain Member from a certain standing committee of the House. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.Res.204 proposes the removal of Representative Green of Texas from the House Committee on Financial Services. The resolution cites Representative Green's disruptive conduct during the President's State of the Union address as the primary justification. The resolution argues that his actions violated House decorum and brought discredit to the institution.
The resolution details how Representative Green interrupted the President's speech, defied admonishments from House staff and the Speaker, and was eventually removed by the Sergeant at Arms. It further emphasizes his lack of remorse and subsequent actions protesting his censure.
The resolution invokes clause 1 of rule XXIII of the Rules of the House of Representatives, which requires members to behave in a manner that reflects creditably on the House, as the basis for his removal.
Expected Effects
If passed, H.Res.204 would immediately remove Representative Green from his position on the House Committee on Financial Services. This would reduce his influence on matters related to financial policy and oversight.
It could also set a precedent for future disciplinary actions against members who disrupt official proceedings or violate House rules of decorum. The action may also further polarize the House, potentially leading to increased political tensions.
Potential Benefits
- Could reinforce standards of decorum and respect during official proceedings.
- May deter future disruptions of important events like the State of the Union address.
- Could uphold the dignity and integrity of the House of Representatives.
- Might improve the overall functionality of the Committee on Financial Services by removing a member perceived as disruptive.
- Could send a message that breaches of civility will not be tolerated.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could be perceived as a politically motivated attack on a member of the opposing party.
- May stifle dissenting voices and limit freedom of expression within the House.
- Could set a precedent for removing members from committees based on subjective interpretations of decorum.
- Might further polarize the House and exacerbate political tensions.
- Could distract from more pressing legislative matters.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution's constitutional alignment is complex. While Article I, Section 5 grants each House the power to determine the rules of its proceedings and to punish its members for disorderly behavior, the First Amendment protects freedom of speech.
The question is whether Representative Green's actions, while disruptive, fall under protected speech or constitute a violation of House rules that justifies disciplinary action. There is no explicit constitutional provision directly addressing the removal of a member from a committee assignment for breach of decorum.
Ultimately, the constitutionality of H.Res.204 depends on whether the House's actions are viewed as a legitimate exercise of its rule-making authority or an infringement on a member's freedom of speech.
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).