The passage of SCR17 could significantly alter how Congress operates by increasing accountability among elected officials. By making their schedules public, Members of Congress will be under greater scrutiny regarding their availability and participation in legislative processes. This shift is expected to foster a closer relationship between representatives and their constituents, as the latter can see precisely how their officials are spending their time in office.
Summary
SCR17, known as the Transparency in Congress Resolution of 2023, mandates that all Members of Congress must publish their public schedules on a monthly basis. This new requirement aims to enhance transparency by allowing constituents to better track the activities and engagements of their elected representatives. The bill specifies that each schedule must include a detailed list of hearings, meetings, and events attended by the member, as well as a description of any floor activities. However, this does not include personal or campaign-related meetings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, SCR17 represents a significant step towards increased transparency in congressional operations. While the bill’s proponents argue it will improve public trust and scrutiny of legislative actions, there remains a need to safeguard personal privacy and security within the same framework. The successful implementation of this resolution will depend on the effective guidance from the relevant ethics committees of both Houses of Congress.
Contention
Despite its intentions, there are potential points of contention associated with SCR17. Critics may voice concerns about privacy and security, as the requirement to disclose public schedules must be balanced against personal safety and confidentiality interests. Provisions within the bill allow members to withhold information that could threaten national security or personal safety, particularly involving sensitive meetings with confidential sources or individuals. This could lead to debates about the definition of what constitutes sensitive information, potentially impacting transparency efforts.
Urges Congress to provide for joint session at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in honor of semiquincentennial of Declaration of Independence.
Removal of the Highway Plan and Building Restriction Line from Lot 9 in Square 5914 along the West Side of Congress Street, S.E., S.O. 22-01642, Act of 2024
Urging the Congress of the United States to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States and, in the event that Congress does not submit such an amendment on or before December 31, 2011, applying to Congress to call a convention for the specific and exclusive purpose of proposing an amendment to that constitution to provide, in the absence of a national emergency and on a two-thirds vote of Congress, for a federal balanced budget and requesting that the legislatures of each of the several states that compose the United States apply to Congress to call a convention to propose such an amendment.
A resolution recognizing the expiration of the Equal Rights Amendment proposed by Congress in March 1972, and observing that Congress has no authority to modify a resolution proposing a constitutional amendment after the amendment has been submitted to the States or after the amendment has expired.