Provides relative to passing over controversial instruments on third reading and final passage
The implementation of HR86 could significantly alter how legislative time is managed and how bills are prioritized within the House. By allowing noncontroversial bills to be pushed through more swiftly, the House may see improved efficiency in operations, reducing potential bottlenecks that can arise from lengthy deliberations on minor matters. This could lead to more focus on key legislative issues that require thorough debate, ensuring that critical bills receive the attention they need while less contentious matters are handled more expediently.
House Resolution 86 (HR86) amends House Rule 8.8.1 of the Rules of Order of the House of Representatives to allow for the preferential consideration of noncontroversial legislative instruments during their third reading and final passage. This procedural change aims to streamline the legislative process by enabling the Speaker of the House to prioritize noncontroversial bills, facilitating a more efficient flow of legislation without the need for extensive debate. The rule also includes a mechanism for any member to object to the preferential treatment, which requires a majority vote to override.
The sentiment surrounding HR86 appears to be generally positive among those who advocate for procedural efficiency and a more streamlined legislative process. Supporters argue that implementing the Berthelot Rule will help the House function more effectively, saving time and resources. However, there may be concerns from members who value debate and thorough discussion on all legislative items, even those deemed noncontroversial. Critics might worry that this expedited process could undercut the democratic process by limiting debate on important issues.
While the bill is primarily procedural, the potential contention arises from the subjectivity of what is considered 'noncontroversial.' Members may disagree on whether specific bills fit this classification, leading to possible conflicts during the legislative process. Furthermore, the requirement for a majority vote to proceed under this new rule could provoke disputes regarding its use, especially if members feel pressured to expedite votes on matters they believe deserve more scrutiny. The overall discussion reflects broader themes in legislative governance about balancing efficiency with thorough democratic debate.