S.55 - Read the Bills Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The "Read the Bills Act" aims to increase transparency and accountability in Congress by requiring that all bills include a statement of constitutional authority, set forth current law being amended, and undergo a full reading before a vote. It mandates the publication of bills online at least seven days before a vote and requires Senators and Representatives to sign affidavits attesting that they have read or listened to the bill in its entirety. The bill also provides a cause of action for those aggrieved by laws enacted in violation of these procedures.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be to slow down the legislative process and potentially reduce the number of bills passed. It would also likely increase the workload for congressional staff and require changes to congressional procedures. The bill aims to ensure that members of Congress are fully informed about the legislation they are voting on and that the public has adequate notice and access to the text of bills.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency in the legislative process.
- Greater accountability of members of Congress.
- More informed decision-making by legislators.
- Enhanced public access to legislative information.
- Potential reduction in the passage of poorly considered or special interest legislation.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Significant slowdown in the legislative process.
- Increased workload for congressional staff.
- Potential for procedural gridlock.
- Possible weaponization of the affidavit requirement for political purposes.
- Challenges in enforcing the requirement for members to "attentively" listen to or read bills.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill cites Article I, Section 5 (rules of proceedings and journal), Section 7 (passage of bills), Section 8 (necessary and proper clause), and Article III, Section 2 (standing) of the Constitution as its basis. It argues that the current legislative practices have deviated from the original intent of the Constitution regarding transparency and informed consent. The bill seeks to reinforce the legislative powers vested in Congress by ensuring a more rigorous and transparent process.
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).