Requires that the House committee chairman have the opportunity to sign a conference committee report on a House instrument before all other conferees and on a Senate instrument before other House conferees
Impact
The passage of HR8 would significantly impact the procedural dynamics within the House. By prioritizing the chairman's ability to sign off on reports, the resolution seeks to enhance the role of committee leaders in the legislative process. This shift could streamline the reporting process and ensure that those with more direct involvement in the legislation have a say before others. As a result, this could lead to more organized and efficient committee activities, impacting the flow of legislation within the House.
Summary
House Resolution 8, presented by Representative Hutter, focuses on amending House Rule 6.14 of the Rules of Order for the House of Representatives. The primary objective of this resolution is to mandate that the chairman of the committee responsible for reporting the instrument (or an appointed member in their place) be granted the opportunity to sign a conference committee report prior to all other conferees. This change is aimed at establishing a structured protocol regarding the signing of legislative reports as they move through the legislative process.
Sentiment
General sentiment around HR8 appears to be supportive among those who value structured legislative procedures and efficiencies within the House. Advocates argue that giving committee chairs signing priority will empower those most knowledgeable about the bill to influence its progression. However, there may also be concerns regarding the centralization of power among committee leaders, as it could potentially hinder the collaborative nature of the legislative process.
Contention
While there seems to be support for HR8, notable points of contention may arise regarding the implications for committee members not in leadership roles. Critics may argue that this change could disenfranchise other members by limiting their participation rights in the signing process, raising concerns about equality and representation within the legislative framework. The effectiveness of such procedural adjustments often depends on the balance between efficiency and inclusivity in legislative practices.
Requires every senator who is a member of a conference committee to be presented the conference committee report, sign it, and indicate if the member accepts or rejects the report.
Request the Senate Committee on Senate and Governmental Affairs and the House Committee on House and Governmental Affairs to study the feasibility of conducting video conferencing of committee meetings and sessions of the legislature and authorizes voting in absentia.
Relating to assessment of public school students, providing accelerated instruction, appropriately crediting certain student performance, and eliminating requirements based on performance on certain assessment instruments.