Resolution Concerning The Joint Rules Of The September Special Session, 2021.
Impact
One notable aspect of SJ00100 is its requirement for fiscal notes to be attached to any bill or substantive resolution that might affect state or municipal revenue or require the expenditure of funds. This acts as a safeguard to ensure that the financial implications of proposed legislation are understood before it is acted upon. Consequently, the presence of these fiscal notes would provide lawmakers with a clearer picture of the economic impact of potential bills, thereby facilitating more informed decision-making during legislative debates.
Summary
Senate Joint Resolution No. 100, introduced during the September Special Session of 2021, outlines the joint rules that govern the legislative process for that session. This resolution ensures that the procedural rules in effect during the regular session of 2021 will be maintained, with specified amendments, alterations, or repeals as necessary for the special session's context. The intent of this bill is to streamline legislative operations by preserving the existing rules that lawmakers are already familiar with, thereby reducing confusion and administrative delays as they reconvene.
Contention
The resolution specifically amends existing legislative rules, including those governing the first and second readings of bills and resolutions, ensuring that bills must be accompanied by a fiscal note at the time of their consideration. While this amendment is largely viewed as a positive enhancement to legislative transparency and accountability, some members may argue that increased fiscal oversight could slow down the legislative process by adding additional layers of bureaucracy. This could lead to concerns about efficiency during a time when swift legislative action may be desired.