Minnesota House Bill HF1119

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/23
• Refer: 2/1/23

Caption

Vote threshold established for bills heard in a standing committee of the legislature.

Impact

The introduction of HF1119 is expected to transform the legislative process by instituting a higher standard for approval within committees. This bill aims to prevent the easy passage of bills into omnibus packages without adequate debate and consensus among committee members. The new procedural requirement seeks to promote transparency and encourage thorough discussions on the implications of legislation before it is combined with other bills, which could foster more thoughtful decision-making in the legislature.

Summary

House File 1119 establishes a vote threshold for certain bills heard in standing committees of the Minnesota legislature. Specifically, it requires that a bill must not be laid over for possible inclusion in a major finance or policy omnibus bill unless it has been approved by a two-thirds vote of the committee's membership. This measure aims to enhance the scrutiny and approval process for bills that may significantly impact state policy and finances, ensuring that a substantial majority of committee members agree before a bill can advance in the legislative process.

Contention

While proponents of HF1119 advocate for the increased accountability it demands from committee members, there may be concerns regarding its potential impacts on legislative efficiency. Critics argue that requiring a two-thirds vote could hinder the passage of important bills, particularly in a divided legislature where securing such a majority may be challenging. This could effectively marginalize voices within the legislature and delay the advancement of significant policy measures, leading to potential frustrations among advocates and constituents seeking timely legislative action.