Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HR1573

Introduced

11/14/24

Refer

11/14/24

Caption

Establishing the Select Committee on Electoral Reform.

Impact

The committee is tasked with examining the current electoral methods utilized for electing Congress members and investigating potential alternatives that could enhance the accountability and functionality of Congress. Among the significant topics to be explored are the introduction of multi-member congressional districts, changes to the number of House representatives, and various voting methodologies including cumulative and fusion voting. The committee will also evaluate the barriers preventing states from experimenting with these varied electoral systems, particularly the existing requirement for single-member districts set forth by the Uniform Congressional District Act.

Summary

House Resolution 1573 establishes the Select Committee on Electoral Reform, aimed at addressing the declining approval of Congress. The resolution highlights the necessity for electoral reform in the U.S., referencing various reform methods such as proportional representation, ranked-choice voting, and redistricting reforms. The establishment of the committee reflects a growing sentiment among the populace that modifications to the electoral system could lead to improved political engagement and satisfaction with the electoral process.

Contention

While the intent behind HR1573 is to improve the electoral process and make it more inclusive, the discussions surrounding it may spark debate on the implications of electoral reforms. Proponents argue that changes such as implementing ranked-choice voting or establishing independent redistricting commissions would result in more representative outcomes and a more engaged electorate. Conversely, critics might view these reforms as unnecessary complications or as invasive to the established electoral framework, raising concerns about their execution and the readiness of states to adopt such significant changes.

Latest HR1573 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HR20

This resolution establishes the House Select Committee on Electoral Reform to examine current methods of electing Members of Congress, consider alternative methods of election, and report appropriate recommendations to Congress and the President.Specifically, the committee must (1) determine how alternative methods of election would affect the responsiveness, accountability, and functionality of Congress; (2) conduct hearings to take testimony and receive evidence from appropriate expert witnesses; and (3) examine federal barriers to state experimentation with alternative electoral systems. The committee must consider alternatives to current methods that include adopting multi-member congressional districts with proportional representation; adjusting the total number of Members of the House of Representatives; adopting alternative methods of voting (e.g., ranked-choice voting); and holding open and nonpartisan primaries.The committee shall be made up of 14 Members of Congress appointed by the Speaker of the House, 7 of whom shall be appointed in consultation with the minority leader. The committee's co-chairs shall be designated by the Speaker and minority leader, respectively. The resolution provides that the committee must hold its first meeting within 30 days after all of its members have been appointed.The committee shall issue its final report to Congress and the President within one year after the committee's first meeting.

US HR448

Establishing the Select Committee to Investigate the Cover-Up of President Joseph Robinette Biden, Jr.'s Cognitive and Physical Health Decline.

US HR262

Establishing the Select Committee to Defeat the Mexican Drug Cartels.

US HB627

VOTE Act Verification Of The Electorate Act

US HB7320

Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act

US HB2658

Conspiracy to Obstruct the Electoral Count Act

US HB10123

Streamlining Federal Cybersecurity Regulations Act

US HCR20

Establishing the Congressional Fitness Challenge, and for other purposes.

US HR12

Establishing a Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government as a select investigative subcommittee of the Committee on the Judiciary.

US HR1578

Original Resolution honoring and commending the American Jewish Committee on its 118th anniversary

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