Iowa House Bill HCR8

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/23

Caption

A concurrent resolution relating to joint rules of the Senate and House of Representatives for the Ninetieth General Assembly.(Formerly HSB 209.)

Impact

The enactment of HCR8 impacts the operational framework of the Iowa General Assembly by standardizing how both houses conduct their meetings, vote on issues, and manage the legislative calendar. Since it outlines the procedures to manage joint resolutions and concurrent resolutions, it ensures that legislators can navigate their responsibilities more effectively. The resolution is particularly significant as it provides processes for introducing bills, considering vetoes, and handling possible amendments, which are essential for legislative efficiency.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 8 (HCR8) establishes the joint rules for the Ninetieth General Assembly of Iowa's Senate and House of Representatives. This resolution serves as a foundational document that guides legislative practices and procedures for the biennial session. Key provisions include the rules on how the legislative process will operate, including when joint rules can be suspended and how each session is designated and managed. It emphasizes the continuity of legislative actions from past sessions and sets the stage for organizational matters within the General Assembly, which are crucial for the smooth functioning of legislative duties.

Contention

While generally procedural in nature, some points of contention may arise over specific rules regarding the suspension of joint rules, particularly in contentious legislative sessions. Disagreements could occur regarding the extent to which rules can be suspended and the implications of doing so on the legislative process. Such debates reflect the broader tensions within legislative bodies on how to balance efficiency with adherence to established protocols, which might be viewed differently across party lines. However, no explicit contentious debates were documented in the discussions surrounding HCR8.