Amending the Rules of the House of Representatives to require the Speaker to allow the Cable-Satellite Public Affairs Network (C-SPAN) to broadcast and record the floor proceedings of the House, and for other purposes.
Impact
By enforcing this amendment, HR17 would not only increase the visibility of legislative proceedings but also promote accountability among House members. Allowing C-SPAN to broadcast these sessions means that constituents would have the opportunity to closely monitor debates, votes, and discussions that directly affect their lives. This is particularly significant in fostering an informed electorate, as it would enable citizens to better understand government workings and the actions of their representatives.
Summary
House Resolution 17 (HR17) aims to amend the Rules of the House of Representatives to ensure that the Cable-Satellite Public Affairs Network (C-SPAN) is allowed to broadcast and record the floor proceedings of the House. The resolution emphasizes the importance of transparency in government processes by requiring that these sessions be made accessible to the public through external media outlets. This move is seen as a step toward enhancing public engagement and awareness of legislative activities.
Contention
While the bill appears to be largely supported for its intent of improving transparency, potential contention may arise over concerns regarding the extent of media influence on legislative processes. Some House members may worry that an increase in public scrutiny could affect the dynamics of debates or the willingness of individuals to speak candidly during discussions. Additionally, logistical challenges associated with broadcasting may also come into play, including costs and the implementation of technical requirements for C-SPAN's operation within the House.
Amending the Rules of the House of Representatives to require continued broadcasting of the full House Chamber during legislative business consistent with the broadcasts that occured on January 3-6, 2023.
Directing the Chief Administrative Officer of the House of Representatives to conduct a study and issue a report about ways to increase the accessability of live broadcasts of floor proceedings of the House of Representatives to individuals without cable or satellite television, and for other purposes.
Amending the Rules of the House of Representatives to permit Members to vote by proxy and remotely attend committee proceedings in certain cases, and for other purposes.
A resolution amending rule XLIV of the Standing Rules of the Senate to include amendments of the House of Representatives in the requirements for identifying spending items, and for other purposes.
Amending the Rules of the House of Representatives to require each Member, Delegate, Resident Commissioner, officer, and employee of the House of Representatives to complete a medical emergency preparedness training, and for other purposes.
Amending the Rules of the House of Representatives to require employees of the House to be subject to criminal background checks conducted by the United States Capitol Police, and for other purposes.
Requiring foreign state media outlets with credentialed members in the House news media galleries to comply with the Foreign Agents Registration Act by prohibiting the admission into such galleries of reporters and correspondents who are representatives of such outlets who are not in compliance with the requirements of such Act, and for other purposes.