Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

S.Res.117 - Providing for members on the part of the Senate of the Joint Committee on Printing and the Joint Committee of Congress on the Library. (119th Congress)

Summary

Senate Resolution 117 pertains to the appointment of specific senators to the Joint Committee on Printing and the Joint Committee of Congress on the Library. The resolution designates members from both parties to serve on these committees.

These committees play a crucial role in overseeing government printing operations and the Library of Congress, respectively. The resolution ensures that the Senate fulfills its responsibility in staffing these joint committees.

This action is a routine but necessary step in the functioning of the legislative branch, ensuring that these important committees can continue their work.

Expected Effects

The immediate effect of this resolution is the formal assignment of senators to the specified joint committees. This allows these committees to continue their oversight and operational functions without interruption.

In the longer term, the composition of these committees can influence decisions related to government printing policies and the management of the Library of Congress. The selected members will participate in shaping these areas.

Ultimately, this resolution facilitates the ongoing operation of key congressional functions related to information dissemination and cultural preservation.

Potential Benefits

  • Ensures the continued functioning of the Joint Committee on Printing, which oversees government publishing and printing services.
  • Ensures the continued functioning of the Joint Committee of Congress on the Library, which oversees the Library of Congress.
  • Provides for bipartisan representation on these important committees.
  • Facilitates the efficient operation of Congress by filling necessary committee positions.
  • Contributes to the oversight and management of important government resources and cultural institutions.

Potential Disadvantages

  • The resolution itself has no direct disadvantages to the American people.
  • The selection process for committee members could be perceived as potentially favoring certain viewpoints or interests, though this is not explicitly evident in the resolution itself.
  • There is a potential for these committees to be used for partisan purposes, but this is a risk inherent in any congressional committee and is not specific to this resolution.
  • The resolution does not address any specific issues or reforms, so it does not directly contribute to solving any existing problems.
  • The impact of the resolution is primarily procedural and may not be immediately noticeable to the average citizen.

Constitutional Alignment

This resolution aligns with the US Constitution, specifically Article I, Section 5, which states that "Each House shall be the Judge of the Elections, Returns and Qualifications of its own Members, and a Majority of each shall constitute a Quorum to do Business." This resolution is an internal matter for the Senate to organize its committees and assign members.

Furthermore, the establishment of joint committees is an implied power necessary for the functioning of Congress, falling under the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 18). These committees help Congress carry out its legislative responsibilities.

There is no apparent conflict with any specific provision of the Constitution, including the Bill of Rights. The resolution is a procedural matter within the powers of the Senate.

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).