Resolution Concerning Roll Call And Reading Of The Senate Journal.
Impact
The resolution implies a significant change in how daily sessions are conducted, allowing the Senate to focus more on legislative discussions and decision-making rather than administrative procedures. By suspending the daily roll call, which can be time-consuming, the Senate aims to expedite its business and make better use of the time available. This could potentially expedite the consideration of bills and resolutions in the Senate floor, reflecting a desire for increased productivity during the session.
Summary
Senate Resolution No. 2, introduced during the February session of 2018, is a procedural resolution aimed at streamlining legislative processes within the Senate. It specifically seeks to dispense with the daily roll call and the reading of the Senate Journal during the ongoing session. This measure reflects an effort to enhance efficiency in legislative proceedings by reducing time spent on routine tasks.
Contention
While the resolution can be beneficial in terms of efficiency, it may also raise concerns regarding transparency and accountability in legislative processes. Critics of similar procedural changes often argue that dispensing with daily roll calls could diminish the visibility of attendance and participation by senators, leading to a less informed public on who is present in the legislature. Additionally, the significance of the daily reading of the Senate Journal serves as a historical record of the session's activities, which some may argue is important for maintaining institutional memory.