S.Res.18 - Providing for sufficient time for legislation to be read. (119th Congress)
Summary
Senate Resolution 18 (S.Res.18) proposes a rule change requiring a waiting period before the Senate can consider any bill, resolution, or other measure. The waiting period is calculated based on the length of the document, specifically one session day for every 20 pages, plus one session day for any remaining pages less than 20. This resolution aims to ensure that Senators have sufficient time to read and understand legislation before voting on it.
Expected Effects
If enacted, S.Res.18 would likely slow down the legislative process in the Senate. It would introduce a mandatory waiting period based on document length, potentially delaying votes on important matters. The rule could also lead to strategic behavior, such as breaking up large bills into smaller ones to avoid the waiting period.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures Senators have adequate time to review legislation, potentially leading to more informed decisions.
- May reduce the likelihood of poorly understood or hastily passed laws.
- Could increase transparency and accountability in the legislative process.
- Provides an opportunity for more thorough public scrutiny of proposed legislation.
- May decrease the influence of lobbyists and special interests by allowing more time for independent analysis.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could significantly slow down the legislative process, making it more difficult to respond to urgent issues.
- May lead to procedural delays and gridlock in the Senate.
- Could be used strategically to obstruct or delay legislation.
- The page-based calculation may not accurately reflect the complexity of the legislation.
- Could increase the administrative burden on the Senate, requiring careful tracking of document lengths and waiting periods.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution cites Article I, Section 5, Clause 2 of the Constitution, which grants each House of Congress the power to determine the rules of its proceedings. This provision gives the Senate broad authority to establish its own internal rules and procedures. S.Res.18 appears to fall within this constitutional grant of power, as it regulates the timing and consideration of legislation within 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).