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Congress - House Rules
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1562882
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Congress - House Rules
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John O. Marsh Files (Ford Administration)
John Marsh's General Subject Files
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U.S. House of Representatives. 3/4/1789-
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The original documents are located in Box 9, folder "Congress - House Rules" of the John
Marsh Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald R. Ford donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public
domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid
copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Digitized from Box 9 of The John Marsh Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
FIRST SESSION, NINETY-FOURTH CONGRESS
RULE I
corded by electronic device or by clerks,
pore, preserve order and decorum, and
DUTIES OF THE SPEAKER
as the case may be, and shall be entered
decide all questions of order subject to
in the Journal, together with the names
appeal by any Member.
1. The Speaker shall take the chair on
of those not voting. Members shall have
every legislative day precisely at the hour
2. He shall make and cause to be print-
not less than fifteen minutes to be
to which the House shall have adjourned
ed and delivered to each Member, or
counted from the ordering of the
at the last sitting and immediately call
mailed to his address, at the commence-
recorded vote or the ordering of clerks
the Members to order. On the appear-
ment of every regular session of Con-
to tell the vote.
ance of a quorum, the Speaker, having
gress, a list of the reports which it is
examined the Journal of the proceedings
6. He shall not be required to vote in
the duty of any officer or Department to
of the last day's sitting and approved the
ordinary legislative proceedings, except
make to Congress, referring to the act or
same, shall announce to the House his
where his vote would be decisive, or
resolution and page of the volume of the
approval of the Journal; whereupon, un-
where the House is engaged in voting by
laws or Journal in which it may be con-
less the Speaker, in his discretion, orders
ballot; and in cases of a tie vote the
tained, and placing under the name of
the reading of the Journal, the Journal
question shall be lost.
each officer the list of reports required of
shall be considered as read. However, it
7. He shall have the right to name any
him to be made.
shall then be in order to offer one motion
Member to perform the duties of the
3. He shall note all questions or order,
that the Journal be read and such mo-
Chair, but such substitution shall not
with the decisions thereon, the record of
tion is of the highest privilege and shall
extend beyond three legislative days:
which shall be printed as an appendix
be determined without debate.
Provided, however, That in case of ill-
to the Journal of each session; and com-
2. He shall preserve order and deco-
ness, he may make such appointment for
plete, as soon after the close of the ses-
rum, and, in case of disturbances or dis-
a period not exceeding ten days, with
sion as possible, the printing and distri-
orderly conduct in the galleries, or in the
the approval of the House at the time
bution to Members, Delegates, and the
lobby, may cause the same to be cleared.
the same is made; and in his absence
Resident Commissioner from Puerto Rico
3. He shall have general control, ex-
and omission to make such appointment,
of the Journal of the House, together
cept as provided by rule or law, of the
the House shall proceed to elect a
with an accurate and complete index; re-
Hall of the House, and of the corridors
Speaker pro tempore to act during his
tain in the library at his office, for the
and passages and the disposal of the un-
absence.
use of the Members, Delegates, the Resi-
appropriated rooms in the part of the
8. He shall have the authority to desig-
dent Commissioner from Puerto Rico and
Capitol assigned to the use of the House,
nate any Member, officer or employee of
officers of the House, and not to be with-
until further order.
the House of Representatives to travel on
drawn therefrom, two copies of all the
4. He shall sign all acts, addresses,
the business of the House of Representa-
books and printed documents deposited
tives, as determined by him, within or
there; send, at the end of each session, a
joint resolutions, writs, warrants, and
subpenas of, or issued by order of, the
without the United States, whether the
printed copy of the Journal thereof to
House is meeting, has recessed or has ad-
the executive and to each branch of the
House, and decide all questions of order,
subject to an appeal by any Member, on
journed, and all expenses for such travel
legislature of every State: deliver or mail
may be paid for from the contingent
to any Member, Delegate or the Resi-
which appeal no Member shall speak
more than once, unless by permission of
fund of the House on vouchers solely ap-
dent Commissioner from Puerto Rico an
the House.
proved and signed by the Speaker.
extra copy, in binding of good quality, of
each document requested by that Mem-
5. He shall rise to put a question, but
RULE II
ber, Delegate, or the Resident Commis-
may state it sitting; and shall put ques-
ELECTION OF OFFICERS
sioner which has been printed, by order
tions in this form, to wit: "As many as
There shall be elected by a viva voce
of either House of the Congress, in any
are in favor (as the question may be),
vote, at the commencement of each Con-
Congress in which he served; attest and
say 'Aye'."; and after the affirmative
gress, to continue in office until their suc-
affix the seal of the House to all writs,
voice is expressed. "As many as are
cessors are chosen and qualified, a Clerk,
warrants, and subpenas issued by order
opposed, say 'No'."; if he doubts, or a
Sergeant-at-Arms, Doorkeeper, Post-
of the House, certify to the passage of
division is called for, the House shall
master, and Chaplain, each of whom
all bills and joint resolutions, make or
divide; those in the affirmative of the
shall take an oath to support the Con-
approve all contracts, bargains, or agree-
question shall first rise from their seats,
stitution of the United States, and for the
ments relative to furnishing any matter
and then those in the negative; if he
true and faithful discharge of the duties
or thing, or for the performance of any
still doubts, or a count is required by at
of his office to the best of his knowledge
labor for the House of Representatives,
least one-fifth of a quorum, he shall
and ability, and to keep the secrets of the
in pursuance of law or order of the House,
name one or more from each side of the
House; and each shall appoint all of the
keep full and accurate accounts of the
question to tell the Members in the
employees of his department provided for
disbursements out of the contingent fund
affirmative and negative; which being
by law.
of the House, keep the stationary account
reported, he shall rise and state the deci-
RULE III
of Members, Delegates, and the Resident
sion. However. if any Member requests
DUTIES OF THE CLERK
Commissioner from Puerto Rico, and pay
a recorded vote and that request is sup-
them as provided by law. He shall pay
ported by at least one-fifth of a quorm,
1. The Clerk shall, at the commence-
to the officers and employees of the House
such vote shall be taken by electronic
ment of the first session of each Con-
of Representatives the amount of their
device, unless the Speaker in his dis-
gress, call the Members to order, proceed
salaries that shall be due them.
cretion orders clerks to tell the names
to call the roll of Members by State in
of those voting on each side of the
4. He shall, in case of temporary ab-
alphabetical order, and, pending the elec-
sence or disability, designate an official
question, and such names shall be re-
tion of a Speaker or Speaker pro tem-
in his office to sign all papers that may
R 1
FORD
GERALD
RULES OF THE
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
R3
R2
require the official signature of the Clerk
and signed by the Member making the
(3) Transfers of unexpended balances.
(e) (1) Committee on the Budget, to
(3) Columbia Institution for the Deaf,
(i) Committee on Government Opera-
statement to the Clerk, which list shall
(4) The amount of new spending au-
consist of twenty-five Members as
Dumb, and Blind; Howard University;
tions.
of the House, and to do all other acts
except such as are provided for by stat-
be published in the Record as a part
thority (as described in the Congression-
follows:
Freedman's Hospital.
(1) Budget and accounting measures,
of the proceedings, immediately follow-
al Budget Act of 1974) which is to be
(A) five Members who are members
(4) Convict labor and the entry of
other than appropriations.
ute, that may be required under the
ing the names of those not voting. How-
effective for a fiscal year, including bills
of the Committee on Appropriations;
goods made by convicts into interstate
(2) The overall economy and efficiency
rules and practice of the House to be
done by the Clerk. Such official acts,
ever, pairs shall be announced but once
and resolutions (reported by other com-
(B) five Members who are members of
commerce.
of Government operations and activities,
when SO done by the designated officials,
during the same legislative day.
mittees) which provide new spending
the Committee on Ways and Means;
(5) Labor standards.
including Federal procurement.
authority and are referred to the com-
(C) thirteen Members who are mem-
(6) Labor statistics.
(3) Reorganizations in the executive
shall be under the name of the Clerk of
RULE IX
mittee under clause 4(a).
bers of other standing committees;
(7) Mediation and arbitration of la-
branch of the Government.
the House. The said designation shall be
QUESTIONS OF PRIVILEGE
The committee shall include separate
(D) one Member from the leadership
bor disputes.
(4) Intergovernmental relationships
in writing, and shall be laid before the
House and entered on the Journal.
Questions of privilege shall be, first
headings for "Rescissions" and "Trans-
of the majority party; and
(8) Regulation or prevention of im-
between the United States and the
those affecting the rights of the House
fers of Unexpected Balances" in any bill
(E) one Member from the leadership
portation of foreign laborers under con-
States and municipalities, and general
RULE IV
collectively, its safety, dignity, and the
or resolution as reported from the com-
of the minority party.
tract.
revenue sharing.
DUTIES OF THE SERGEANT-AT-ARMS
integrity of its proceedings: second, the
mittee under its jurisdiction specified in
No member shall serve as a member of
(9) Food programs for children in
(5) National archives.
1. It shall be the duty of the Sergeant-
rights, reputation, and conduct of Mem-
subparagraph (2) or (3), with all pro-
the Committee on the Budget during
schools.
In addition to its legislative jurisdiction
at-Arms to attend the House during its
bers, individually, in their representa-
posed rescissions and proposed transfers
more than two Congresses in any period
(10) United States Employees' Com-
under the preceding provisions of this
sittings, to maintain order under the di-
tive capacity only; and shall have prece-
listed therein; and shall include a sepa-
of five successive Congresses beginning
pensation Commission.
paragraph (and its oversight functions
rection of the Speaker or Chairman, and,
dence of all other questions, except mo-
rate section with respect to such rescis-
after 1974 (disregarding for this purpose
(11) Vocational rehabilitation.
under clause 2(b) (1) and (2)), the
pending the election of a Speaker or
tion to adjourn.
sions or transfers in the accompanying
any service performed as a member of
(12) Wages and hours of labor.
committee shall have the function of
committee report. In addition to its juris-
such committee for less than a full ses-
(13) Welfare of miners.
performing the activities and conducting
Speaker pro tempore, under the direc-
RULE X
diction under the preceding provisions of
sion in any Congress) All selections of
(14) Work incentive programs.
the studies which are provided for in
tion of the Clerk, execute the commands
ESTABLISHMENT AND JURISDICTION OF
of the House, and all processes issued by
this paragraph, the committee shall have
Members to serve on the committee shall
In addition to its legislative jurisdiction
clause 4(c).
STANDING COMMITTEES
authority thereof, directed to him by the
the fiscal oversight function provided for
be made without regard to seniority.
under the preceding provisions of this
(j) Committee on House Administration.
Speaker; and keep the accounts for the
The Committees and Their Jurisdiction
in clause 2(b) (3) and the budget hearing
(2) All concurrent resolutions on the
paragraph (and its general oversight
1. There shall be in the House the fol-
function under clause 2(b) (1)), the com-
(1) Appropriations from the contin-
pay and mileage of Members, Delegate,
function provided for in clause 4(a).
budget (as defined in section 3(a) (4)
gent fund.
and the Resident Commissioner from
lowing standing committees, each of
(c) Committee on Armed Services.
of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974)
mittee shall have the special oversight
Puerto Rico, and pay them as provided
which shall have the jurisdiction and
(1) Common defense generally.
and other matters required to be referred
function provided for in clause 3
(2) Auditing and settling of all ac-
counts which may be charged to the con-
related functions assigned to it by this
(2) The Department of Defense gen-
to the committee under titles III and IV
(c) with respect to domestic educational
by law.
tingent fund.
2. The symbol of his office shall be the
clause and clauses 2, 3, and 4; and all
erally, including the Departments of the
of that Act.
programs and institutions, and pro-
(3) Employment of persons by the
mace, which shall be borne by him while
bills, resolutions, and other matters re-
Army, Navy, and Air Force generally.
(3) The committee shall have the
grams of student assistance, which are
House, including clerks for Members and
enforcing order on the floor.
lating to subjects within the jurisdiction
(3) Ammunition depots; forts; arsen-
duty-
within the jurisdiction of other commit-
committees, and reporters of debates.
of any standing committee as listed in
als; Army, Navy, and Air Force reserva-
(A) to report the matters required
tees.
(4) Except as provided in clause 1(p)
RULE V
this clause shall (in accordance with and
tions and establishments.
to be reported by it under titles III and
(h) Committee on Foreign Affairs.
(4), matters relating to the Library of
DUTIES OF THE DOORKEEPER
subject to clause 5) be referred to such
(4) Conservation, development, and
IV of the Congressional Budget Act of
(1) Relations of the United States
Congress and the House Library; statu-
1. The Doorkeeper shall enforce strict-
committees, as follows:
use of naval petroleum and oil shale
1974;
with foreign nations generally.
ary and pictures; acceptance or purchase
ly the rules relating to the privileges of
(a) Committee on Agriculture.
reserves.
(B) to make continuing studies of
(2) Acquisition of land and buildings
of works of art for the Capitol; the Bo-
the Hall and be responsible to the House
(1) Adulteration of seeds, insect pests,
(5) Pay, promotion, retirement, and
the effect on budget outlays of rele-
for embassies and legations in foreign
tanic Gardens; management of the Li-
for the official conduct of his employees.
and protection of birds and animals in
other benefits and privileges of mem-
vant existing and proposed legislation
countries.
brary of Congress; purchase of books and
forest reserves.
bers of the armed forces.
and to report the results of such stud-
(3) Establishment of boundary lines
2. He shall allow no person to enter
manuscripts; erection of monuments to
(2) Agriculture generally.
(6) Scientific research and develop-
ies to the House on a recurring basis;
between the United States and foreign
the room over the Hall of the House dur-
the memory of individuals.
(3) Agricultural and industrial chem-
ment in support of the armed services.
nations.
ing its sittings: and fifteen minutes be-
(C) to request and evaluate contin-
(5) Except as provided in clause 1(p)
fore the hour of the meeting of the
istry.
(7) Selective service.
(4) Foreign loans.
uing studies of tax expenditures, to
(4), matters relating to the Smithsonian
(4) Agricultural colleges and experi-
(8) Size and composition of the Army,
(5) International conferences and
House each day he shall see that the floor
Navy, and Air Force.
devise methods of coordinating tax ex-
Institution and the incorporation of sim-
is cleared of all persons except those
ment stations.
congresses.
penditures, policies, and programs with
ilar institutions.
(5) Agricultural economics and re-
(9) Soldiers' and sailors' homes.
(6) Intervention abroad and declara-
privileged to remain, and kept so until
direct budget outlays, and to report
ten minutes after adjournment.
search.
(10) Strategic and critical materials
tions of war.
(6) Expenditure of contingent fund of
the results of such studies to the
the House.
(6) Agricultural education extension
necessary for the common defense.
(7) Measures relating to the diplo-
House on a recurring basis; and
services.
matic service.
(7) Matters relating to printing and
RULE VI
In addition to its legislative jurisdiction
(7) Agricultural production and mar-
(D) to review, on a continuing basis,
correction of the Congressional Record.
(8) Measures to foster commercial
DUTIES OF THE POSTMASTER
under the preceding provisions of this
keting and stabilization of prices of
the conduct by the Congressional
paragraph (and its general oversight
intercourse with foreign nations and to
(8) Measures relating to accounts of
The Postmaster shall superintend the
agricultural products, and commodities
Budget Office of its functions and
safeguard American business interests
the House generally.
post office in the Capitol and in the re-
function under clause 2(b) (1)), the com-
(not including distribution outside of the
duties.
abroad.
(9) Measures relating to assignment of
spective office buildings of the House for
mittee shall have the special oversight
(f) Committee on the District of Co-
office space for Members and committees.
the accommodation of Representatives,
United States).
function provided for in clause 3(a) with
(9) Neutrality.
Delegates, the Resident Commissioner
(8) Animal industry and diseases of
lumbia.
respect to international arms control and
(10) Protection of American citizens
(10) Measures relating to the disposi-
animals.
disarmament, and military dependents
(1) All measures relating to the mu-
abroad and expatriation.
tion of useless executive papers.
from Puerto Rico, and officers of the
(9) Crop insurance and soil conserva-
nicipal affairs of the District of Colum-
(11) The American National Red
(11) Measures relating to the election
House and shall be held responsible for
education.
tion.
bia in general, other than appropria-
Cross.
of the President, Vice President, or Mem-
the prompt and safe delivery of their
mail.
(10) Dairy industry.
(d) Committee on Banking, Currency
tions therefor, including-
(12) United Nations Organizations.
bers of Congress; corrupt practices: con-
and Housing.
(2) Adulteration of foods and drugs.
(13) Measures relating to interna-
tested elections; credentials and qualifi-
RULE VII
(11) Entomology and plant quaran-
tine.
(1) Banks and banking, including de-
(3) Incorporation and organization of
tional economic policy.
cations; and Federal elections generally.
DUTIES OF THE CHAPLAIN
(12) Extension of farm credit and
posit insurance and Federal monetary
societies.
(14) Export controls.
(12) Measures relating to services to
The Chaplain shall attend at the com-
farm security.
policy.
(4) Insurance, executors, administra-
(15) International commodity agree-
the House, including the House Restau-
mencement of each day's sitting of the
(13) Forestry in general, and forest
(2) Money and credit, including cur-
tors, wills, and divorce.
ments (other than those involving
rant, parking facilities and administra-
House and open the same with prayer.
reserves other than those created from
rency and the issuance of notes and re-
(5) Municipal code and amendments
sugar)
tion of the House Office Buildings and of
RULE VIII
the public domain.
demption thereof; gold and silver, in-
to the criminal and corporation laws.
(16) Trading with the enemy.
the House wing of the Capitol.
(14) Human nutrition and home eco-
cluding the coinage thereof; valuation
(6) Municipal and juvenile courts.
(17) International education.
(13) Measures relating to the travel of
DUTIES OF THE MEMBERS
nomics.
and revaluation of the dollar.
(7) Public health and safety, sanita-
In addition to its legislative jurisdiction
Members of the House.
1. Every Member shall be present with-
(15) Inspection of livestock and meat
(3) Urban development.
tion, and quarantine regulations.
under the preceding provisions of this
(14) Measures relating to the raising,
in the Hall of the House during its sit-
products.
(4) Public and private housing.
(8) Regulation of sale of intoxicating
paragraph (and its general oversight
reporting and use of campaign contribu-
tings, unless excused or necessarily pre-
(16) Plant industry, soils, and agricul-
liquors.
vented; and shall vote on each question
(5) Economic stabilization, defense
function under clause 2(b) (1)), the
tions for candidates for office of Repre-
tural engineering
(9) Taxes and tax sales.
production, renegotiation, and control of
committee shall have the special over-
sentative in the House of Representatives
put, unless he has a direct personal or
(17) Rural electrification.
the price of commodities rents, and serv-
(10) Saint Elizabeth's hospital.
sight functions provided for in clause
and of Resident Commissioner to the
pecuniary interest in the event of such
(18) Commodities exchanges.
(g) Committee on Education and
3(d) with respect to customs adminis-
United States from Puerto Rico.
question.
(19) Rural development.
ices.
Labor.
tration, intelligence activities relating to
(15) Measures relating to the compen-
2. Pairs shall be announced by the
(b) Committee on Appropriations.
(6) International finance.
(1) Measures relating to education or
foreign policy, international financial
sation, retirement and other benefits of
Clerk immediately before the announce-
(1) Appropriation of the revenue for
(7) Financial aid to commerce and
labor generally.
and monetary organizations, and inter-
the Members, officers, and employees of
ment by the Chair of the result of the
the support of the Government.
industry (other than transportation).
(2) Child labor.
national fishing agreements.
the Congress.
vote, by the House or Committee of the
(2) Rescissions of appropriations con-
(8) International Financial and Mon-
Whole from a written list furnished him,
tained in appropriation Acts.
etary organizations.
R4
RULES OF THE
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
R5
In addition to its legislative jurisdiction
except revenue measures related thereto.
(3) Coast Guard, including lifesaving
(8) Public works for the benefit of
paragraph (and its general oversight
of or changes in those laws, and of
under the preceding provisions of this
(5) Regulation of interstate and for-
service, lighthouses, lightships, and ocean
navigation, including bridges and dams
function under clause 2(b) (1)), the com-
such additional legislation, as may be
paragraph (and its general oversight
eign communications.
derelicts.
(other than international bridges and
mittee shall have the special oversight
necessary or appropriate,
function under clause 2(b) (1)), the com-
(6) Regulation of interstate transmis-
(4) Fisheries and wildlife, including re-
dams).
function provided for in clause 3(g) with
the various standing committees shall
mittee shall have the function of per-
sion of power, except the installation of
search, restoration, refuges, and conser-
(9) Water power.
respect to the problems of small business.
have oversight responsibilities as pro-
forming the duties which are provided
connections between Government water-
vation.
(10) Transportation, including civil
(t) Committee on Standards of Official
vided in paragraph (b)
for in clause 4(d).
power projects.
(5) Measures relating to the regulation
aviation except railroads, railroad labor
Conduct.
(b) (1) Each standing committee
(k) Committee on Interior and Insular
(7) Securities and exchanges.
of common carriers by water (except
and pensions.
(1) Measures relating to the Code of
(other than the Committee on Appropri-
Affairs.
(8) Consumer affairs and consumer
matters subject to the jurisdiction of the
(11) Roads and the safety thereof.
Official Conduct
ations and the Committee on the Budg-
(1) Forest reserves and national parks
protection.
Interstate Commerce Commission) and
(12) Water transportation subject to
(2) Measures relating to financial dis-
et) shall review and study, on a continu-
created from the public domain.
(9) Travel and tourism.
to the inspection of merchant marine
the jurisdiction of the Interstate Com-
closure by Members, officers, and em-
ing basis, the application, administra-
(2) Forfeiture of land grants and
(10) Public health and quarantine.
vessels, lights and signals, lifesaving
merce Commission.
ployees of the House of Representatives.
tion, execution, and effectiveness of those
alien ownership, including alien owner-
(11) Health and health facilities, ex-
equipment, and fire protection on such
(13) Related transportation regula-
(3) Measures relating to activities de-
laws, or parts of laws, the subject mat-
ship of mineral lands.
cept health care supported by payroll
vessels.
tory agencies, except (A) the Interstate
signed to (1) assist in defeating, passing,
ter of which is within the jurisdiction
(3) Geological Survey.
deductions.
(6) Merchnat marine officers and sea-
Commerce Commission as it relates to
or amending any legislation by the House
of that committee, and the organization
(4) Interstate compacts relating to ap-
(12) Biomedical research and develop-
men.
railroads; (B) Federal Railroad Admin-
or (2) influence, directly or indirectly,
and operation of the Federal agencies
portionment of waters for irrigation
ment.
(7) Navigation and the laws relating
istration; and (C) Amtrak.
the passage or defeat of any legislation
and entities having responsibilities in or
purposes.
(m) Committee on the Judiciary.
thereto, including pilotage.
(q) Committee on Rules.
by the House.
for the administration and execution
(5) Irrigation and reclamation, in-
(1) Judicial proceedings, civil and
(8) Panama Canal and the mainte-
"(1) The rules and joint rules (other
In addition to its legislative jurisdiction
thereof, in order to determine whether
cluding water supply for reclamation
criminal generally.
nance and operation of the Panama
than rules or joint rules relating to the
under the preceding provisons of this
such laws and the programs thereunder
projects, and easements of public lands
(2) Apportionment of Representatives.
Canal, including the administration,
Code of Official Conduct or relating to
paragraph (and its general oversight
are being implemented and carried out
for irrigation projects, and acquisition
(3) Bankruptcy, mutiny, espionage,
sanitation, and government of the Canal
financial disclosure by a Member, officer,
function under clause 2(b) (1)), the com-
in accordance with the intent of the Con-
of private lands when necessary to com-
and counterfeiting.
Zone; and interoceanic canals generally.
or employee of the House of Representa-
mittee shall have the functions with re-
gress and whether such programs should
plete irrigation projects.
(4) Civil liberties.
(9) Registering and licensing of vessels
tives), and order of business of the
spect to recommendations, studies, in-
be continued, curtailed, or eliminated.
(6) Measures relating to the care and
(5) Constitutional amendments.
and small boats.
House.
vestigations, and reports which are pro-
In addition, each such committee shall
management of Indians, including the
(6) Federal courts and judges.
(10) Rules and international arrange-
(2) Emergency waivers (under the
vided for in clause 4(e).
review and study any conditions or cir-
care and allotment of Indian lands and
(7) Immigration and naturalization.
ments to prevent collisions at sea.
Congressional Budget Act of 1974) of
(u) Committee on Veterans' Affairs.
cumstances which may indicate the ne-
general and special measures relating to
(8) Interstate compacts generally.
(11) United States Coast Guard and
the required reporting date for bills and
(1) Veterans' measures generally.
cessity or desirability of enacting new
claims which are paid out of Indian
(9) Local courts in the Territories and
Merchant Marine Academies, and State
resolutions authorizing new budget au-
(2) Cemeteries of the United States in
or additional legislation within the juris-
funds.
possessions.
Maritime Academies.
thority.
which veterans of any war or conflict
diction of that committee (whether or
(7) Measures relating generally to the
(10) Measures relating to claims
(12) International fishing agreements.
(3) Recesses and final adjournments
are or may be buried, whether in the
not any bill or resolution has been intro-
insular possessions of the United States,
against the United States.
(o) Committee on Post Office and Civil
of
Congress.
United States or abroad, except ceme-
duced with respect thereto), and shall
except those affecting the revenue and
(11) Meetings of Congress, attendance
Service.
(4) The Committee on Rules is author-
teries administered by the Secretary of
on a continuing basis undertake future
appropriations.
of Members and their acceptance of in-
(1) Census and the collection of statis-
ized to sit and act whether or not the
the Interior.
research and forecasting on matters
(8) Military parks and battlefields;
compatible offices.
tics
generally.
House is in session.
(3) Compensation, vocational rehabil-
within the jurisdiction of that committee.
national cemeteries administered by the
(12) National penitentiaries.
(2) All Federal Civil Service, including
(r) Committee on Science and Tech-
itation, and education of veterans.
Each such committee having more than
Secretary of the Interior, and parks
(13) Patent Office.
intergovernmental personnel.
nology.
(4) Life insurance issued by the Gov-
twenty members shall establish an over-
within the District of Columbia.
(14) Patents, copyrights, and trade-
(3) Postal-savings banks.
(1) Astronautical research and devel-
ernment on account of service in the
sight subcommittee, or require its sub-
(9) Mineral land laws and claims and
marks.
(4) Postal service generally, including
opment, including resources, personnel,
Armed Forces.
committees, if any, to conduct oversight
entries thereunder.
(15) Presidential succession.
the railway mail service, and measures
equipment, and facilities.
(5) Pensions of all the wars of the
in the area of their respective jurisdic-
(10) Mineral resources of the public
relating to ocean mail and pneumatic-
(2) Bureau of Standards, standardiza-
(16) Protection of trade and commerce
United States, general and special.
tion, to assist in carrying out its respon-
lands.
tube service; but excluding post roads.
tion of weights and measures and the
against unlawful restraints and monop-
(6) Readjustment of servicemen to
sibilities under this subparagraph.
(11) Mining interests generally.
(5) Status of officers and employees of
metric system.
olies.
civil
life.
(12) Mining schools and experimental
the United States, including their com-
(3) National Aeronautics and Space
The establishment of oversight subcom-
(7) Soldiers' and sailors' civil relief.
stations.
(17) Revision and codification of the
pensation, classification, and retirement.
Administration.
mittees shall in no way limit the respon-
Statutes of the United States.
(8) Veterans' hospitals, medical care,
(6) Hatch Act.
(4) National Aeronautics and Space
sibility of the subcommittees with leg-
(13) Petroleum conservation on the
and treatment of veterans.
public lands and conservation of the ra-
(18) State and territorial boundary
(7) Holidays and celebrations.
Council.
islative jurisdiction from carrying out
(v) Committee on Ways and Means.
dium supply in the United States.
lines.
(8) Population and demography.
(5) National Science Foundation.
their oversight responsibilities.
(1) Customs, collection districts, and
(6) Outer space, including exploration
(2) The Committee on Government
(14) Preservation of prehistoric ruins
(19) Communist and other subversive
(p) Committee on Public Works and
ports of entry and delivery.
and objects of interest on the public
activities affecting the internal security
Transportation.
and control thereof.
Operations shall review and study, on a
(2) Reciprocal trade agreements.
domain.
of the United States.
(1) Flood control and improvement of
(7) Science Scholarships.
continuing basis, the operation of Gov-
(3) Revenue measures generally.
All property and records of the Com-
rivers and harbors.
(8) Scientific research and develop-
ernment activities at all levels with a
(15) Public lands generally, includ-
(4) Revenue measures relating to the
ing entry, easements, and grazing there-
mittee on Internal Security are hereby
(2) Measures relating to the Capitol
ment.
view to determining their economy and
insular possessions.
transferred to the Committee on the Ju-
Building and the Senate and House Of-
(9) Civil aviation research and devel-
efficiency.
on.
(5) The bonded debt of the United
(16) Relations of the United States
fice Buildings.
opment.
(3) The Committee on Appropriations
diciary and shall be available for use
States.
with the Indians and the Indian tribes.
(3) Measures relating to the construc-
(10) Environmental research and de-
shall conduct such studies and examina-
by the latter committee to the same ex-
(6) The deposit of public moneys.
In addition to its legislative jurisdic-
tent as if such property and records were
tion or maintenance of roads and post
velopment.
tions of the organization and operation
roads, other than appropriations there-
(11) All energy research and develop-
(7) Transportation of dutiable goods.
of executive departments and other ex-
tion under the preceding provisions of
originally that of the Committee on the
(8) Tax exempt foundations and char-
ecutive agencies (including any agency
Judiciary.
for; but it shall not be in order for any
ment except nuclear research and devel-
this paragraph (and its general over-
itable trusts.
bill providing general legislation in rela-
opment.
the majority of the stock of which is
sight function under clause 2(b) (1)),
Such staff members of the Committee
tion to roads to contain any provision
(12) National Weather Service.
(9) National social security, except
owned by the Government of the United
the committee shall have the special
on Internal Security as the chairman
for any specific road, nor for any bill in
(A) health care and facilities programs
States) as it may deem necessary to as-
oversight functions provided for in
of that committee for the 93rd Congress
In addition to its legislative jurisdiction
relation to any other specific road.
that are supported from general reve-
sist it in the determination of matters
clause 3(e) with respect to all programs
may designate after consultation and
under the preceding provisions of this
(4) Measures relating to the construc-
nues as opposed to payroll deductions
within its jurisdiction.
affecting Indians and nonmilitary nu-
agreement with, the chairman of the
paragraph (and its general oversight
tion or reconstruction, maintenance, and
and (B) work incentive programs.
(c) At the beginning of each Congress,
clear energy and research and develop-
Committee on the Judiciary shall, with-
function under clause 2(b) (1)), the
care of the buildings and grounds of the
ment including the disposal of nuclear
committee shall have the special over-
General Oversight Responsibilities
an appropriate representative of the
out reduction in compensation, be trans-
Botanic Gardens, the Library of Con-
Committee on Government Operations
waste.
ferred and appointed to the Committee
sight functions provided for in clause
2. (a) In order to assist the House in-
gress, and the Smithsonian Institute.
shall meet with appropriate representa-
(1) Committee on Interstate and For-
on the Judiciary as additional members
3(f) with respect to all non-military re-
(1) its analysis, appraisal, and eval-
(5) Measures relating to the purchase
tives of each of the other committees of
eign Commerce.
of the staff of the Committee on the Ju-
search and development
uation of (A) the application, admin-
of sites and construction of post offices,
the House to discuss the oversight plans
diciary for the period of the 94th Con-
(s) Committee on Small Business.
(1) Interstate and foreign commerce
istration, execution, and effectiveness
customhouses, Federal courthouses, and
of such committees and to assist in co-
generally
gress, and shall be paid from the contin-
(1) Assistance to and protection of
Government buildings within the Dis-
of the laws enacted by the Congress,
ordinating all of the oversight activities
(2) Inland waterways.
gent fund of the House.
small business, including financial aid.
or (B) conditions and circumstances
trict of Columbia.
of the House during such Congress.
(n) Committee on Merchant Marine
(2) Participation of small-business en-
(3) Interstate oil compacts and pe-
(6) Oil and other pollution of navi-
which may indicate the necessity or
Within 60 days after the Congress con-
troleum and natural gas, except on the
and Fisheries.
terprises in Federal procurement and
desirability of enacting new or addi-
gable waters.
venes, the Committee on Government
Government contracts.
public lands.
tional legislation, and
(1) Merchant marine generally.
(7) Public buildings and occupied or
Operations shall report to the House the
In addition to its legislative jurisdiction
(4) Railroads, including railroad labor,
(2) Occeanography and Marine Affairs,
improved grounds of the United States
(2) its formulation, consideration,
results of such meetings and discussions,
under the preceding provisions of this
and enactment of such modifications
railroad retirement and unemployment,
including coastal zone management.
generally.
and any recommendations which it may
R6
RULES OF THE
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
R7
have to assure the most effective coordi-
(ii) the fiscal, financial, and eco-
(1) to review on a continuing basis
to the President of the United States
and transmitted to the committee by
ing the conference report on such reso-
nation of such activities and otherwise
nomic assumptions used as bases in ar-
the conduct by the Congressional
in person after their signature by the
such Member, or
lution, and promptly report such subdi-
achieve the objectives of this clause.
riving at total estimated expenditures
Budget Office of its functions and
Speaker of the House and the Presi-
(ii) upon receipt of a complaint, in
visions to the House, in the manner pro-
(d) Each standing committee of the
and receipts.
duties;
dent of the Senate and reporting the
writing and under oath, directly from
vided by section 302 of the Congressional
House shall have the function of review-
,(B) In holding hearings pursuant to
(2) to hold hearings, and receive
fact and date of such presentation to
an individual not a Member of the
Budget Act of 1974.
ing and studying on a continuing basis
subdivision (A), the committee shall re-
testimony from Members of Congress
the House;
House if the committee finds that such
(i) "Each standing committee of the
the impact or probable impact of tax pol-
ceive testimony from the Secretary of
and such appropriate representatives
(2) reporting to the Sergeant-at-
complaint has been submitted by such
House which is directed in a concurrent
icies affecting subjects within its juris-
the Treasury, the Director of the Office
of Federal departments and agencies,
Arms of the House concerning the
individual to not less than three Mem-
resolution on the budget to determine
diction as described in clauses 1 and 3.
of Management and Budget, the Chair-
the general public, and national or-
travel of Members of the House; and
bers of the House who have refused, in
and recommend changes in laws, bills, or
man of the Council of Economic Advis-
ganizations as it deems desirable, in
SPECIAL OVERSIGHT FUNCTIONS
(3) providing, through the House
writing, to transmit such complaint to
resolutions under the reconciliation proc-
developing the first concurrent reso-
the committee.
ers, and such other persons as the com-
3. (a) The Committee on Armed Serv-
Information Systems a scheduling
ess shall promptly make such determi-
mittee may desire.
lution on the budget for each fiscal
service which may be used by all the
(C) No investigation shall be under-
nations and recommendations, and re-
ices shall have the function of reviewing
year;
committees and subcommittees of the
taken by the committee of any alleged
and studying, on a continuing basis, all
(C) Hearings pursuant to subdivision
port a reconciliation bill or resolution (or
laws, programs, and Government activ-
(A), or any part thereof, shall be held
(3) to make all reports required of it
House to eliminate, insofar as possible,
violation of a law, rule, regulation, or
both) to the House or submit such rec-
by the Congressional Budget Act of
standard of conduct not in effect at the
ities dealing with or involving interna-
in open session, except when the com-
1974, including the reporting of recon-
any meeting and scheduling conflicts.
ommendations to the Committee on the
time of the alleged violation.
mittee, in open session and with a quo-
Budget, in accordance with the Congres-
tional arms control and disarmament
ciliation bills and resolutions when so
(e) (1) The Committee on Standards
rum present, determines by rollcall vote
(D) A member of the committee shall
sional Budget Act of 1974.
and the education of military dependents
required;
of Official Conduct is authorized; (A) to
in schools.
that the testimony to be taken at that
(4) to study on a continuing basis
recommend to the House from time to
be ineligible to participate, as a member
Referral of Bills, Resolutions, and Other
(b) The Committee on the Budget
hearing on that day may be related to
those provisions of law which exempt
time such administrative actions as it
of the committee, in any committee pro-
Matters to Committees
a matter of national security: Provided,
ceeding relating to his or her official con-
shall have the function of-
Federal agencies or any of their activ-
may deem appropriate to establish or
however, That the committee may by the
duct. In any case in which a member of
5. (a) Each bill, resolution, or other
(1) making continuing studies of the
ities or outlays from inclusion in the
enforce standards of official conduct for
the committee is ineligible to act as a
matter which relates to a subject listed
effect on budget outlays of relevant
same procedure close one subsequent
Budget of the United States Govern-
Members, officers, and employees of the
day of hearing. A transcript of all such
member of the committee under the pre-
under any standing committee named in
existing and proposed legislation, and
ment, and to report to the House from
House; (B) to investigate, subject to sub-
ceding sentence, the Speaker of the
clause 1 shall be referred by the Speaker
reporting the results of such studies
hearings shall be printed and a copy
time to time its recommendations for
paragraph (2) of this paragraph, any
thereof furnished to each Member, Dele-
House shall designate a Member of the
in accordance with the provisions of this
to the House on a recurring basis; and
terminating or modifying such pro-
alleged violation, by a Member, officer, or
(2) requesting and evaluating con-
gate, and the Resident Commissioner
House from the same political party as
clause.
visions; and
employee of the House, of the Code of
from Puerto Rico.
the ineligible member of the committee
(b) Every referral of any matter under
tinuing studies of tax expenditures,
(5) to study on a continuing basis
Official Conduct or of any law, rule, regu-
to act as a member of the committee in
paragraph (a) shall be made in such
devising methods of coordinating tax
(D) Hearings pursuant to subdivision
proposals designed to improve and
lation, or other standard of conduct
any committee proceeding relating to the
manner as to assure to the maximum
expenditures, policies, and programs
(A), or any part thereof, may be held
facilitate methods of congressional
applicable to the conduct of such Mem-
official conduct of such ineligible mem-
extent feasible that each committee
with direct budget outlays, and re-
before joint meetings of the committee
budget-making, and to report to the
ber, officer, or employee in the perform-
ber.
which has jurisdiction under clause 1
porting the results of such studies to
and the Committee on Appropriations of
House from time to time the results of
ance of his duties or the discharge of his
the House on a recurring basis.
the Senate in accordance with such pro-
responsibilities, and, after notice and
(f) (1) Each standing committee of
over the subject matter of any provision
such study together with its recom-
cedures as the two committees jointly
hearing, to recommend to the House by
the House shall, in its consideration of all
thereof will have responsibility for con-
(c) The Committee on Education and
mendations.
Labor shall have the function of review-
bills and joint resolutions of a public
sidering such provision and reporting to
may determine.
(c) (1) The Committee on Govern-
resolution or otherwise, such action as
ing, studying, and coordinating, on a
(2) Whenever any bill or resolution
ment Operations shall have the general
the committee may deem appropriate in
character within its jurisdiction, insure
the House with respect thereto. Any prec-
which provides new spending authority
function of-
the circumstances; (C) to report to the
that appropriations for continuing pro-
edents, rulings, and procedures in effect
continuing basis, all laws, programs, and
appropriate Federal or State authorities,
gram and activities of the Federal Gov-
prior to the Ninety-Fourth Congress shall
Government activities dealing with or
described in section 401(c) (2) (C) of the
(A) receiving and examining re-
ernment and the District of Columbia
be applied with respect to referrals under
involving domestic educational programs
Congressional Budget Act of 1974 is re-
with the approval of the House, any sub-
and institutions and programs of stu-
ports of the Comptroller General of the
government will be made annually to
this clause only to the extent that they
ported by a committee of the House and
stantial evidence of a violation, by a
dent assistance, which are within the
United States and of submitting such
the amount of new budget authority
Member, officer, or employee of the
the maximum extent feasible and con-
will contribute to the achievement of the
recommendations to the House as it
jurisdiction of other committees.
House, of any law applicable to the per-
sistent wth the nature, requirements, and
objectives of this clause.
which will be required for the fiscal year
(d) The Committee on Foreign Affairs
deems necessary or desirable in con-
formance of his duties or the discharge
objectives of the programs and activities
(c) In carrying out paragraph (a) and
involved if such bill or resolution is en-
shall have the function of reviewing and
nection with the subject matter of
of his responsibilities, which may have
involved. For the purposes of this para-
(b) with respect to any matter, the
acted as SO reported exceeds the appro-
studying, on a continuing basis, all laws,
such reports;
graph a Government agency includes the
Speaker may refer the matter simul-
priate allocation of new budget author-
been disclosed in a committee investiga-
programs, and Government activities
ity reported as described in clause 5(j)
(B) evaluating the effects of laws
tion; and (D) to give consideration to
organizational units of government listed
taneously to two or more committees for
in connection with the most recently
enacted to reorganize the legislative
the request of any Member, officer, or
in clause 7(d) of Rule XIII.
concurrent consideration or for consider-
dealing with or involving customs ad-
ministration, intelligence activities re-
and executive branches of the Govern-
(2) Each standing committee of the
ation in sequence (subject to appropriate
agreed to concurrent resolution on the
employee of the House for an advisory
lating to foreign policy, international
budget for such fiscal year, such bill
opinion with respect to the general pro-
House shall review, from time to time,
time limitations in the case of any com-
ment; and
financial and monetary organizations,
(C) studying intergovernmental re-
each continuing program within its
mittee after the first), or divide the mat-
or resolution shall then be referred to
priety of any current or proposed con-
and international fishing agreements.
the Committee on Appropriations with
duct of such Member, officer, or employee
jurisdiction for which appropriations are
ter into two or more parts (reflecting
lationships between the United States
(e) The Committee on Interior and In-
instructions to report it, with the com-
and the States and municipalities, and
not made annually in order to ascertain
different subjects and jurisdictions) and
and, with appropriate deletions to assure
sular Affairs shall have the function of
mittee's recommendations and (if the
between the United States and inter-
the privacy of the individual concerned,
whether such program could be modi-
refer each such part to a different com-
reviewing and studying, on a continuing
committee deems it desirable) with an
to publish such opinion for the guidance
fied SO that appropriations therefor
mittee, or refer the matter to a special ad
national organizations of which the
amendment limiting the total amount
United States is a member.
of other Members, officers, and employees
would be made annually.
hoc committee appointed by the Speaker
basis, all laws, programs, and Govern-
with the approval of the House (from
ment activities dealing with Indians and
of new spending authority provided in
(2) In addition to its duties under sub-
of the House.
(g) Each standing committee of the
nonmilitary nuclear energy and research
the bill or resolution, within 15 calendar
paragraph (1), the Committee on Gov-
(2) (A) No resolution, report, recom-
House shall, on or before March 15 of
the members of the committees having
and development including the disposal
ernment Operations may at any time
mendation, or advisory opinion relating
each year, submit to the Committee on
legislative jurisdiction) for the specific
days (not counting any day on which the
House is not in session) beginning with
conduct investigations of any matter
to the official conduct of a Member, offi-
the Budget (1) its views and estimates
purpose of considering that matter and
of nuclear waste.
with respect to all matters to be set forth
reporting to the House thereon, or make
(f) The Committee on Science and
the day following the day on which it is
without regard to the provisions of clause
cer, or employee of the House shall be
so referred. If the Committee on Ap-
made by the Committee on Standards of
in the concurrent resolution on the
such other provision as may be con-
Technology shall have the function of
1,2, or 3 (or this clause) conferring juris-
propriations fails to report the bill or
diction over such matter upon another
Official Conduct, and no investigation
budget for the ensuing fiscal year which
sidered appropriate.
reviewing and studying, on a continuing
(d) After the introduction in the House
basis, all laws, programs, and Govern-
resolution within such 15-day period, the
standing committee. The committee's
of such conduct shall be undertaken by
are within its jurisdiction or functions,
ment activities dealing with or involv-
findings and recommendations in any
such committee, unless approved by the
and (2) an estimate of the total amounts
of each bill or resolution the Congression-
committee shall be automatically dis-
charged from further consideration of
affirmative vote of a majority of the
of new budget authority, and budget out-
al Research Service of the Library of
ing nonmilitary research and develop-
such investigation shall be made avail-
ment.
the bill or resolution and the bill or reso-
able to the other standing committee or
members of the committee.
lays resulting therefrom, to be provided
Congress shall prepare a factual descrip-
(g) The Committee on Small Business
lution shall be placed on the appropriate
committees having jurisdiction over the
or authorized in all bills and resolutions
tion of the subject involved therein not to
shall have the function of studying and
(B) Except in the case of an investi-
calendar.
within its jurisdiction which it intends
exceed one hundred words; such descrip-
matter involved (and included in the re-
investigating, on a continuing basis, the
gation undertaken by the committee on
(3) In addition, the Committee on Ap-
to be effective during that fiscal year.
tion shall be published in the Congres-
port of any such other committee when
problems of all types of small business.
its own initiative, the committee may
sional Record and the Digest of Public
propriations shall study on a continuing
required by clause 2(1) (3) of Rule XI).
undertake an investigation relating to
(h) As soon as practicable after a con-
General Bills and Resolutions as soon as
Additional Functions of Committees
basis those provisions of law which (on
(d) The Committee on House Admin-
the official conduct of an individual
current resolution on the budget for any
possible after introduction.
4. (a) (1) (A) The Committee on Ap-
the first day of the first fiscal year for
istration shall have the function of-
Member, officer, or employee of the
fiscal year is agreed to, each standing
propriations shall, within thirty days
which the congressional budget process
(1) examining all bills, amendments,
Committee of the House (after consult-
Election and Membership of Committees;
House of Representatives only-
after the transmittal of the Budget to
is effective) provide spending authority
ing with the appropriate committee or
Chairmen; Vacancies; Select and Con-
and joint resolutions after passage by
the Congress each year, hold hearings on
or permanent budget authority, and shall
(i) upon receipt of a complaint, in
the House and, in cooperation with the
committees of the Senate) shall subdi-
ference Committees
the Budget as a whole with particular
report to the House from time to time
writing and under oath, made by or
Senate, examining all bills and joint
vide any allocations made to it in the
6. (a) (1) The standing committees
reference to-
its recommendations for terminating or
submitted to a Member of the House
resolutions which shall have passed
joint explanatory statement accompany-
specified in clause 1 shall be elected by
(i) the basic recommendations and
modifying such provisions.
both Houses to see that they are cor-
budgetary policies of the President in
(b) The Committee on the Budget
rectly enrolled, forthwith presenting
the presentation of the Budget; and
shall have the duty-
those which originated in the House
GERALD
R8
RULES OF THE
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
R9
the House at the commencement of each
programs or policies affecting older
on all regular meeting days fixed by the
chairman of the committee; and such
cause to begin the hearing sooner, it shall
professional ethics on the part of coun-
Congress, from nominations submitted
Americans.
committee, unless otherwise provided by
records shall be the property of the
make the announcement at the earliest
sel, by censure and exclusion from the
by the respective party caucuses.
RULE XI
written rule adopted by the committee.
House and all Members of the House
possible date. Any announcement made
hearings; and the committee may cite
shall have access thereto.
(2) One-half of the members of the
under his subparagraph shall be
RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR COMMITTEES
Additional and special meetings
the offender to the House for contempt.
Committee on Standards of Official Con-
Proxies
promptly published in the Daily Digest.
In General
(5) If the committee determines that
(c) (1) The chairman of each stand-
duct shall be from the majority party
(4) Each committee shall, insofar as is
ing committee may call and convene, as
(f) No vote by any Member of any
evidence or testimony at an investigative
1. (a) (1) The Rules of the House are
and one-half shall be from the minority
practicable, require each witness who is
he or she considers necessary, additional
Committee or subcommittee with respect
hearing may tend to defame, degrade, or
the rules of its committees and subcom-
to appear before it to file with the com-
party.
meetings of the committee for the con-
to any measure or matter may be cast by
incriminate any person, it shall-
(b) One of the Members of each stand-
mittees so far as applicable, except that
mittee (in advance of his or her appear-
a motion to recess from day to day is a
proxy unless such committee, by writ-
(A) receive such evidence or testi-
sideration of any bill or resolution pend-
ing committee shall be elected by the
ance) a written statement of the pro-
motion of high privilege in committees
ing before the committee or for the con-
ten rule adopted by the committee, per-
mony in executive session;
House from nominations submitted by
posed testimony and to limit the oral
and subcommittees.
duct of other committee business. The
mits voting by proxy and requires that
(B) afford such person an oppor-
the majority party caucus, at the com-
committee shall meet for such purpose
the proxy authorization shall be in writ-
presentation at such appearance to a
tunity voluntarily to appear as a wit-
(2) Each subcommittee of a commit-
brief summary of his or her argument.
mencement of each Congress, as chair-
tee is a part of that committee, and is
ing, shall assert that the Member is
ness; and
pursuant to that call of the chairman.
(5) No point of order shall lie with
man thereof. In the temporary absence
absent on official business or is otherwise
(C) receive and dispose of requests
subject to the authority and direction of
(2) If at least three members of any
respect to any measure reported by any
of the chairman, the Member next in
that committee and to its rules SO far as
unable to be present at the meeting of
from such person to subpena addi-
rank in the order named in the election
standing committee desire that a special
meeting of the committee be called by
the committee, shall designate the per-
committee on the ground that hearings
tional witnesses.
applicable.
on such measure were not conducted in
of the committee, and so on, as often as
(b) Each committee is authorized at
the case shall happen, shall act as chair-
the chairman, those members may file in
son who is to execute the proxy author-
(6) Except as provided in subpara-
any time to consider such investigations
ization, and shall be limited to a specific
accordance with the provisions of this
graph (5), the chairman shall receive
the offices of the committee their writ-
clause; except that a point of order on
man; and in case of a permanent vacancy
measure or matter and any amendments
and the committee shall dispose of re-
and studies as it may consider necessary
ten request to the chairman for that
that ground may be made by any mem-
in the chairmanship of any such com-
special meeting. Such request shall spec-
or motions pertaining thereto; except
quests to subpena additional witnesses.
or appropriate in the exercise of its re-
mittee the House shall elect another
sponsibilities under Rule X, and (subject
that a member may authorize a general
ber of the committee which reported the
(7) No evidence or testimony taken in
ify the measure or matter to be consid-
to the adoption of expense resolutions as
proxy only for motions to recess, ad-
measure if, in the committee, such point
chairman.
executive session may be released or used
ered. Immediately upon the filing of the
of order was (A) timely made and (B)
(c) Each standing committee of the
journ or other procedural matters. Each
in public sessions without the consent
required by clause 5) to incur expenses
request, the clerk of the committee shall
House of Representatives, except the
(including travel expenses) in connection
notify the chairman of the filing of the
proxy to be effective shall be signed by
improperly overruled or not properly
of the committee.
considered.
Committee on the Budget, that has more
therewith.
the Member assigning his or her vote and
(8) In the discretion of the commit-
request. If, within three calendar days
shall contain the date and time of day
(6) The preceding provisions of this
than twenty members shall establish at
tee, witnesses may submit brief and per-
(c) Each committee is authorized to
least four subcommittees.
after the filing of the request, the chair-
have printed and bound testimony and
that the proxy is signed. Proxies may not
paragraph do not apply to the commit-
tinent sworn statements in writing for
(d) All vacancies in standing commit-
man does not call the requested special
other data presented at hearings held
be counted for a quorum.
tee hearings which are provided for by
inclusion in the record. The committee
meeting, to be held within seven calendar
clause 4(a) (1) of Rule X.
tees shall be filled by election by the
is the sole judge of the pertinency of tes-
by the committee. All costs of steno-
days after the filing of the request, a ma-
Open meetings and hearings
House.
graphic services and transcripts in con-
Quorum for taking testimony
timony and evidence adduced at its
jority of the members of the committee
(e) The Speaker shall appoint all se-
(g) (1) Each meeting for the trans-
may file in the offices of the commit-
(h) Each committee may fix the num-
hearing.
nection with any meeting or hearing of a
lect and conference committees which
action of business, including the markup
committee shall be paid from the contin-
tee their written notice that a special
of legislation, of each standing com-
ber of its members to constitute a quorum
(9) A witness may obtain a transcript
shall be ordered by the House from time
meeting of the committee will be held,
mittee or subcommittee thereof shall be
for taking testimony and receiving evi-
copy of his testimony given at a public
gent fund of the House.
to time. In appointing members to con-
(d) Each committee shall submit to
specifying the date and hour of, and the
ference committees the Speaker shall ap-
open to the public except when the com-
dence, which shall be not less than two.
session or, if given at an executive ses-
sion, when authorized by the committee.
the House, not later than January 2 of
measure or matter to be considered at,
point no less than a majority of members
mittee or subcommittee, in open session
Prohibition against committee meetings
each odd-numbered year, a report on the
that special meeting. The Committee
who generally supported the House posi-
and with a quorum present, determines
during five-minute rule
Committee procedures for reporting bills
activities of that committee under this
shall meet on that date and hour. Imme-
and resolutions
tion as determined by the Speaker.
by rollcall vote that all or part of the
(i) No committee of the House (except
rule and Rule X during the Congress end-
diately upon the filing of the notice, the
remainder of the meeting on that day
the Committee on Appropriations, the
(1) (1) (A) It shall be the duty of the
(f) The Speaker may appoint the Res-
ident Commissioner from Puerto Rico
ing at noon on January 3 of such year.
clerk of the committee shall notify all
shall be closed to the public. Provided,
Committee on the Budget, and the Com-
chairman of each committee (except as
Committee Rules
members of the committee that such
and the Delegate from the District of
however, That no person other than
special meeting will be held and inform
mittee on Rules) may sit, without special
provided in subdivision (C) to report or
Columbia, Virgin Islands, and Guam to
members of the committee and such con-
Adoption of written rules
leave, while the House is reading a meas-
cause to be reported promptly to the
them of its date and hour and the meas-
any conference committee that is consid-
2. (a) Each standing committee of the
gressional staff and such departmental
ure for amendment under the five-min-
House any measure approved by the
ering legislation reported from a com-
ure or matter to be considered; and only
House shall adopt written rules govern-
representatives as they may authorize
ute rule.
committee and to take or cause to be
the measure or matter specified in that
mittee on which they serve.
ing its procedure. Such rules-
shall be present at any business or mark-
taken necessary steps to bring the mat-
notice may be considered at that spe-
up session which has been closed to the
Calling and interrogation of witnesses
ter to a vote.
(g) There shall be in the House the
(1) shall be adopted in a meeting
cial meeting.
which is open to the public unless the
public. This paragraph does not apply
(j) (1) Whenever any hearing is con-
(B) In any event, the report of any
permanent Select Committee on Aging,
committee, in open session and with a
Ranking majority Member to preside in
to open committee hearings which are
ducted by any committee upon any
committee on a measure which has been
which shall not have legislative jurisdic-
absence of chairman
provided for by clause 4(a) (3) of Rule X
measure or matter, the minority party
approved by the committee shall be filed
tion but which shall have jurisdiction-
quorum present, determines by rollcall
vote that all or part of the meeting on
(d) If the chairman of any standing
or by subparagraph (2) of this para-
Members on the committee shall be en-
within seven calendar days (exclusive of
(1) to conduct a continuing compre-
that day is to be closed to the public.
committee is not present at any meet-
graph, or to any meeting that relates
titled, upon request to the chairman by
days on which the House is not in ses-
hensive study and review of the prob-
lems of the older American, including
(2) shall be not inconsistent with
ing of the committee, the ranking mem-
solely to internal budget or personnel
a majority of them before the completion
sion) after the day on which there has
but not limited to income mainte-
the Rules of the House or with those
ber of the majority party on the com-
matters.
of the hearing, to call witnesses selected
been filed with the clerk of the commit-
provisions of law having the force and
mittee who is present shall preside at
(2) Each hearing conducted by each
by the minority to testify with respect
tee a written request, signed by a major-
nance, housing, health (including
effect of Rules of the House; and
that meeting.
committee or subcommittee thereof shall
to that measure or matter during at least
ity of the members of the committee, for
medical research), welfare, employ-
be open to the public except when the
one day of hearing thereon.
the reporting of that measure. Upon the
ment, education, recreation, and par-
(3) shall in any event incorporate all
Committee records
of the succeeding provisions of this
committee or subcommittee, in open ses-
(2) Each committee shall apply the
filing of any such request, the clerk of
ticipation in family and community
clause to the extent applicable.
(e) (1) Each committee shall keep a
sion and with a quorum present, deter-
five-minute rule in the interrogation of
the committee shall transmit immedi-
life as self-respecting citizens;
complete record of all committee action
witnesses in any hearing until such time
ately to the chairman of the committee
Each committee's rules specifying its reg-
mines by rollcall vote that all or part of
(2) to study the use of all practicable
which shall include a record of the votes
the remainder of that hearing on that
as each Member of the committee who SO
notice of the filing of that request. This
means and methods of encouraging
ular meeting days, and any other rules of
on any question on which a rollcall vote
day shall be closed to the public because
desires has had an opportunity to ques-
subdivision does not apply to the report-
the development of public and private
a committee which are in addition to the
is demanded. The result of each such
disclosure of testimony, evidence, or
tion each witness.
ing of a regular appropriation bill by the
programs and policies which will as-
provisions of this clause, shall be pub-
rollcall vote shall be made available by
other matters to be considered would en-
Committee on Appropriations prior to
sist the older American in taking a
lished in the Congressional Record not
Investigative hearing procedures
the committee for inspection by the pub-
danger the national security or would
compliance with subdivision (C) and
full part in national life and which
later than thirty days after the Congress
lic at reasonable times in the offices of
violate any law or rule of the House of
(k) (1) The chairman at an investi-
does not apply to a report of the Com-
will encourage the utilization of the
convenes in each odd-numbered year.
the committee. Information SO available
Representatives: Provided, however,
gative hearing shall announce in an
mittee on Rules with respect to the rules,
knowledge, skills, special aptitudes,
Each select or joint committee shall com-
for public inspection shall include a de-
That the committee or subcommittee
opening statement the subject of the
joint rules, or order of business of the
and abilities of older Americans to
ply with the provisions of this paragraph
scription of the amendment, motion, or-
may by the same procedure vote to close
investigation.
House or to the reporting of a resolution
contribute to a better quality of life for
unless specifically prohibited by law.
der or other proposition and the name of
one subsequent day of hearing.
(2) A copy of the committee rules and
of inquiry addressed to the head of an
all
Americans;
Regular meeting days
each Member voting for and each Mem-
this clause shall be made available to
(3) Each committee of the House
executive department.
(3) to develop policies that would
ber voting against such amendment, mo-
each witness.
(b) Each standing committee of the
(except the Committee on Rules) shall
(C) Before reporting the first regular
encourage the coordination of both
tion, order, or proposition, and whether
(3) Witnesses at investigative hearings
appropriation bill for each fiscal year,
House shall adopt regular meeting days,
make public announcement of the date,
governmental and private programs
by proxy or in person, and the names of
may be accompanied by their own coun-
the Committee on Appropriations shall,
which shall be not less frequent than
place and subject matter of any com-
designed to deal with problems of
those Members present but not voting.
sel for the purpose of advising them con-
monthly, for the conduct of its business.
to the extent practicable and in accord-
mittee hearing at least one week before
aging; and
(2) All committee hearings, records,
cerning their constitutional rights.
Each such committee shall meet, for the
ance with section 307 of the Congres-
the commencement of the hearing. If the
(4) The chairman may punish
(4) to review any recommendations
consideration of any bill or resolution
data, charts, and files shall be kept sepa-
sional Budget Act of 1974, complete sub-
committee determines that there is good
breaches of order and decorum, and of
made by the President or by the White
pending before the committee or for the
committee markup and full committee
rate and distinct from the congressional
House Conference on Aging relating to
transaction of other committee business,
office records of the Member serving as
R 10
RULES OF THE
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
R 11
action on all regular appropriation bills
report of the committee upon that mea-
X), any committee, or any subcommittee
for that year and submit to the House
sure or matter shall be printed in a single
thereof, is authorized (subject to sub-
acceptable standards of dignity, pro-
still photography, or by any of such
meeting by still photography, that cover-
a summary report comparing the com-
volume which-
priety, and decorum, by which commi-
methods of coverage, but only under such
age shall be made on the basis of a fair
paragraph (2) (A) of this paragraph)-
mittee's recommendations with the ap-
(A) shall include all supplemental,
(A) to sit and act at such times and
tee hearings, or committee meetings,
written rules as the committee may adopt
and equitable pool arrangement devised
propriate levels of budget outlays and
minority, or additional views which
places within the United States,
which are open to the public may be
in accordance with the purposes, provi-
by the Standing Committee of Press
new budget authority as set forth in the
have been submitted by the time of
covered, by television broadcast, radio
sions, and requirements of this clause.
Photographers.
whether the House is in session, has
the filing of the report, and
broadcast, and still photography, or by
(f) The written rules which may be
most recently agreed to current resolu-
(9) Photographers shall not position
recessed, or has adjourned, and to hold
tion on the budget for that year.
(B) shall bear upon its cover a re-
such hearings, and
any of such methods of coverage
adopted by a committee under paragraph
themselves, at any time during the course
(2) (A) No measure or recommenda-
cital that any such supplemental,
(B) to require, by subpoena or other-
(1) for the education, enlighten-
(e) of this clause shall contain provisions
of the hearing or meeting, between the
tion shall be reported from any commit-
minority, or additional views (and any
ment, and information of the general
to the following effect:
witness table and the members of the
wise, the attendance and testimony of
tee unless a majority of the committee
material submitted under subdivisions
public, on the basis of accurate and
(1) If the television or radio coverage
committee.
such witnesses and the production of
was actually present.
(C) and (D) of subparagraph (3)) are
such books, records, correspondence,
impartial news coverage, regarding the
of the hearing or meeting is to be pre-
(10) Photographers shall not place
(B) With respect to each rollcall vote
included as part of the report.
operations, procedures, and practices
sented to the public as live coverage, that
memorandums, papers, and documents
themselves in positions which obstruct
on a motion to report any bill or resolu-
of the House as a legislative and rep-
coverage shall be conducted and pre-
unnecessarily the coverage of the hear-
This subparagraph does not preclude-
as it deems necessary. The chairman of
tion of a public character, the total num-
resentative body and regarding the
sented without commercial sponsorship.
ing by the other media.
(i) the immediate filing or printing
the committee, or any member desig-
measures, public issues, and other mat-
(2) No witness served with a subpena
ber of votes cast for, and the total num-
nated by such chairman, may adminis-
(11) Personnel providing coverage by
of a committee report unless timely
ters before the House and its commit-
by the committee shall be required
ber of votes cast against, the reporting
the television and radio media shall be
request for the opportunity to file sup-
ter oaths to any witness.
of such bill or resolution shall be in-
tees, the consideration thereof, and
against his or her will to be photographed
then currently accredited to the Radio
plemental, minority, or additional
(2) (A) A subpoena may be issued by a
cluded in the committee report.
the action taken thereon; and
at any hearing or to give evidence or
and Television Correspondents' Galleries.
views has been made as provided by
committee or subcommittee under sub-
(2) for the development of the per-
testimony while the broadcasting of that
(3) The report of any committee on
(12) Personnel providing coverage by
this subparagraph; or
paragraph (1) (B) in the conduct of any
spective and understanding of the gen-
hearing, by radio or television, is being
a measure which has been approved by
investigation or activity or series of in-
still photography shall be then currently
(ii) the filing by any such committee
the committee (A) shall include the
eral public with respect to the role
conducted. At the request of any such
of any supplemental report upon any
vestigations or activities, only when au-
accredited to the Press Photographers'
and function of the House under the
witness who does not wish to be subjected
Gallery.
oversight findings and recommendations
measure or matter which may be re-
thorized by a majority of the members
Constitution of the United States as
to radio, television, or still photography
required pursuant to the last sentence of
quired for the correction of any tech-
of the committee, and authorized sub-
coverage, all lenses shall be covered and
(13) Personnel providing coverage by
an organ of the Federal Government.
clause 2(b) (1) of Rule X separately set
nical error in a previous report made
poenas shall be signed by the chairman
(b) In addition, it is the intent of this
all microphones used for coverage turned
the television and radio media and by
out and clearly identified; (B) the state-
by that committee upon that measure
of the committee or by any member des-
clause that radio and television tapes and
off. This subparagraph is supplementary
still photography shall conduct them-
ment required by section 308(a) of the
or matter.
ignated by the committee.
to clause 2(k) (5) of this rule, relating to
selves and their coverage activities in an
television film of any coverage under this
Congressional Budget Act of 1974, sepa-
(6) A measure or matter reported by
(B) Compliance with any subpoena
the protection of the rights of witnesses.
orderly and unobtrusive manner.
clause shall not be used, or more avail-
rately set out and clearly identified, if
issued by a committee or subcommittee
Privileged Reports and Amendments
the measure provides new budget au-
any committee (except the Committee
able for use, as partisan political cam-
(3) Not more than four television
on Rules in the case of a resolution mak-
under subparagraph (1) (B) may be en-
paign material to promote or oppose the
cameras, operating from fixed positions,
4. (a) The following committees shall
thority or new or increased tax expendi-
ing in order the consideration of a bill.
forced only as authorized or directed by
candidacy of any person for elective pub-
shall be permitted in a hearing or meet-
have leave to report at any time on the
tures; (C) the estimate and comparison
the House.
prepared by the Director of the Congres-
resolution, or other order of business),
lic
offce.
ing room. The allocation among the tele-
matters herein stated, namely: The Com-
shall not be considered in the House un-
Use of committee funds for travel
(c) It is, further, the intent of this
vision media of the positions of the num-
mittee Appropriations-on general
sional Budget Office under section 403
til the third calendar day (or the tenth
of such Act, separately set out and
(n) Funds authorized for a committee
clause that the general conduct of each
ber of television cameras permitted in a
appropriation bills: the Committee on
calendar day in the case of a concur-
meeting (whether of a hearing or other-
hearing or meeting room shall be in ac-
clearly identified, whenever the Director
under clause 5 are for expenses incurred
the Budget-on the matters required to
(if timely submitted prior to the filing
rent resolution on the budget), exclud-
wise) covered, under authority of this
cordance with fair and equitable proce-
in the committee's activities within the
be reported by such committee under
ing Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holi-
United States: however, local currencies
clause, by television broadcast, radio
dures devised by the Executive Commit-
Titles III and IV of the Congressional
of the report) has submitted such esti-
days following the day on which the re-
owned by the United States shall be made
broadcast, and still photograph, or by
tee of the Radio and Television Cor-
Budget Act of 1974; the Committee on
mate and comparison to the committee;
port of that committee upon that mea-
available to the committee and its em-
any of such methods of coverage, and the
respondents' Galleries.
House Administration-on enrolled bills,
and (D) a summary of the oversight
sure or matter has been available to the
ployees engaged in carrying out their
personal behavior of the committee
(4) Television cameras shall be placed
contested elections, and all matters re-
findings and recommendations made by
the Committee on Government Opera-
Members of the House. If hearings have
official duties outside the United States.
members and staff, other Government
so as not to obstruct in any way the space
ferred to it of printing for the use of the
been held on any such measure or matter
No appropriated funds shall be expended
officials and personnel, witnesses, tele-
between any witness giving evidence or
House or the two Houses, and on all
tions under clause 2(b)( (2) of Rule X
SO reported, the committee reporting the
for the purpose of defraying expenses of
vision, radio, and press media personnel,
testimony and any member of the com-
matters of expenditure of the contingent
separately set out and clearly identified
measure or matter shall make every rea-
and the general public at the hearing or
mittee or the visibility of that witness
whenever such findings and recommen-
members of the committee or its em-
fund of the House; the Committee on
sonable effort to have such hearings
other meeting shall be in strict con-
and that member to each other.
dations have been submitted to the legis-
ployees in any country where local cur-
Rules-on rules, joint rules, and the order
printed and available for distribution to
rencies are available for this purpose;
formity with and observance of the ac-
(5) Television cameras shall not be
of business; and the Committee on
lative committee in a timely fashion to
the Members of the House prior to the
and the following conditions shall apply
ceptable standards of dignity, propriety,
placed in positions which obstruct unnec-
Standards of Official Conduct-on resolu-
allow an opportunity to consider such
consideration of such measure or matter
essarily the coverage of the hearing or
tions recommending action by the House
findings and recommendations during
with respect to their use of such cur-
courtesy. and decorum traditionally ob-
in the House. This subparagraph shall
served by the House in its operations and
meeting by the other media.
the committee's deliberations on the
rencies:
of Representatives with respect to an in-
not apply to-
(1) No Member or employee of the
shall not be such as to-
(6) Equipment necessary for coverage
dividual Member, officer, or employee of
measure.
(A) any measure for the declaration
(1) distort the objects and purposes
by the television and radio media shall
(4) Each report of a committee on
committee shall receive or expend
the House of Representatives.
of war, or the declaration of a national
local currencies for subsistence in any
of the hearing or other meeting or the
not be installed in, or removed from, the
(b) It shall always be in order to call
each bill or joint resolution of a public
emergency, by the Congress; or
activities of committee members in
hearing or meeting room while the com-
character reported by such committee
country at a rate in excess of the max-
up for consideration a report from the
(B) any executive decision, deter-
connection with that hearing or meet-
mittee in session.
shall contain a detailed analytical state-
imum per diem rate set forth in appli-
Committee on Rules on a rule, joint rule,
mination, or action which would be-
ing or in connection with the general
(7) Floodlights, spotlights, strobe-
cable Federal law.
or the order of business (except it shall
ment as to whether the enactment of
come, or continue to be, effective unless
(2) Each Member or employee of the
work of the committee or of the House;
lights, and flashguns shall not be used in
not be called up for consideration on the
such bill or joint resolution into law may
disapproved or otherwise invalidated
committee shall make to the chair-
or
providing any method of coverage of the
same day it is presented to the House,
have an inflationary impact on prices
by one or both Houses of Congress.
man of the committee an itemized re-
(2) cast discredit or dishonor on the
hearing or meeting, except that the tele-
unless so determined by a vote of not less
and costs in the operation of the national
House, the committee, or any Member
vision media may install additional light-
economy.
(7) If, within seven calendar days
port showing the number of days
than two-thirds of the Members voting,
after a measure has, by resolution, been
or bring the House, the committee, or
ing in the hearing or meeting room, with-
visited in each country whose local
but this provision shall not apply during
(5) If, at the time of approval of any
any Member into disrepute.
out cost to the Government, in order to
made in order for consideration by the
currencies were spent, the amount of
the last three days of the session), and,
measure or matter by any committee,
House, no motion has been offered that
per diem furnished, and the cost of
(d) The coverage of committee hear-
raise the ambient lighting level in the
pending the consideration thereof, the
other than the Committee on Rules, any
transportation if furnished by public
ings and meetings by television broad-
hearing or meeting room to the lowest
the House consider that measure, any
Speaker may entertain one motion that
member of the committee gives notice
cast, radio broadcast, or still photog-
level necessary to provide adequate tele-
member of the committee which reported
carrier, or, if such transportation is
the House adjourn; but after the result
of intention to file supplemental, minor-
ity, or additional views, that member
that measure may be recognized in the
raphy is a privilege made available by
vision coverage of the hearing or meeting
furnished by an agency of the United
is announced the Speaker shall not en-
discretion of the Speaker to offer a mo-
States Government, the cost of such
the House and shall be permitted and
at the then current state of the art of
tertain any other dilatory motion until
shall be entitled to not less than three
tion that the House shall consider that
transportation and the identification
conducted only in strict conformity with
television coverage.
the report shall have been fully disposed
calendar days (excluding Saturdays,
measure, if that committee has duly au-
of the agency. All such individual re-
the purposes, provisions, and require-
(8) Not more than five press photog-
of. The Committee on Rules shall not
Sundays, and legal holidays) in which to
thorized that member to offer that mo-
ports shall be filed by the chairman
ments of this clause.
raphers shall be permitted to cover a
report any rule or order which provides
file such views, in writing and signed by
tion.
that member, with the clerk of the com-
with the Committee on House Admin-
(e) Whenever any hearing or meeting
hearing or meeting by still photography.
that business under clause 7 of Rule
istration and shall be open to public
conducted by any committee of the
In the selection of these photographers,
XXIV shall be set aside by a vote of less
mittee. All such views so filed by one or
Power to sit and act; subpoena power
inspection.
House is open to the public, that commit-
preference shall be given to photogra-
than two-thirds of the Members pres-
more members of the committee shall be
(m) (1) For the purpose of carrying
tee may permit, by majority vote of the
phers from Associated Press Photos and
ent; nor shall it report any rule or order
included within, and shall be a part of,
out any of its functions and duties under
BROADCASTING OF COMMITTEE HEARINGS
committee, that hearing or meeting to
United Press International Newspictures.
which would prevent the motion to re-
the report filed by the committee with
this rule and Rule X (including any mat-
3. (a) It is the purpose of this clause
be covered, in whole or in part, by tele-
If request is made by more than five of
commit from being made as provided in
respect to that measure or matter. The
ters referred to it under clause 5 of Rule
to provide a means, in conformity with
vision broadcast, radio broadcast, and
the media for coverage of the hearing or
clause 4 of Rule XVI.
R 12
RULES OF THE
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
R 13
(c) The Committee on Rules shall pre-
(2) to the extent practicable, con-
(2) The ranking minority party
creed, sex, or age, and solely on the
rate, to be fixed by the chairman, which
sent to the House reports concerning
tain such general statements regard-
(i) Notwithstanding paragraphs (a)
member of each standing subcommit-
basis of fitness to perform the duties
does not exceed the highest rate of basic
rules, joint rules, and order of business,
ing the estimated foreseeable expendi-
tee on each standing committee of the
(2) and (b) (2), a committee may em-
of their respective positions;
pay, as in effect from time to time, of
within three legislative days of the time
ploy nonpartisan staff, in lieu of or in
tures for the respective anticipated ac-
House is authorized to appoint one
(B) shall not engage in any work
level V of the Executive Schedule in sec-
when the bill or resolution involved is
tivities and programs of the commit-
staff person who shall serve at the
addition to committee staff designated
other than committee business; and
tion 5316 of title 5, United States Code.
ordered reported by the committee. If
tee as may be appropriate to provide
pleasure of the ranking minority party
exclusively for the majority or minority
(C) shall not be assigned any duties
any such rule or order is not considered
the House with basic estimates with
member.
(d) Subject to appropriations hereby
party, upon an affirmative vote of a ma-
other than those pertaining to com-
immediately, it shall be referred to the
respect to the expenditure generally
(3) The staff members appointed
authorized, the Committee on Appropria-
jority of the members of the majority
mittee business.
calendar and, if not called up by the
of the funds to be provided to the com-
pursuant to the provisions of subpara-
tions and the Committee on the Budget
party and a majority of the members of
(4) Services of the professional staff
Member making the report within seven
mittee under the primary expense res-
graphs (1) and (2) shall be compen-
may appoint such staff, in addition to the
the minority party.
members of each standing committee
legislative days thereafter, any member
olution.
sated at a rate determined by the sub-
clerk thereof and assistants for the mi-
(j) Each committee shall report to the
may be terminated by majority vote of
of the Rules Committee may call it up as
(b) After the date of adoption by the
committee chairman not to exceed (A)
nority, as it determines by majority vote
Clerk of the House within fifteen days
the committee.
a question of privilege and the Speaker
House of any such primary expense res-
75 per centum of the maximum estab-
to be necessary, such personnel, other
after December 31 and June 30 of each
lished in paragraph (c) of clause 6 or
(5) The foregoing provisions of this
shall recognize any member of the Rules
olution for any such standing commit-
than minority assistants, to posses ssuch
year the name, profession, and total sal-
(B) the rate paid the staff member
paragraph do not apply to the Committee
Committee seeking recognition for that
tee for any year, authorization for the
qualifications as the committee may pre-
ary of each person employed by such
purpose. If the Committee on Rules
payment from the contingent fund of
appointed pursuant to subparagraph
on Appropriations and to the Committee
scribe.
committee or any subcommittee thereof
makes an adverse report on any resolu-
(1) of this paragraph.
on the Budget.
additional expenses of such committee
(e) No committee shall appoint to its
during the period covered by such report,
(4) For the purpose of this para-
(b) (1) The clerical staff of each stand-
tion pending before the committee, pro-
in that year, other than those expenses
staff any experts or other personnel de-
and shall make an accounting of funds
viding for an order of business for the
graph, (A) there shall be no more than
ing committee shall consist of not more
to be paid from appropriations provided
tailed or assigned from any department
made available to and expended by such
than twelve clerks, to be attached to the
consideration by the House of any public
by statute, may be procured by one or
six standing subcommittees of each
or agency of the Government, except
committee or subcommittee during such
bill or joint resolution, on days when it
more additional expense resolutions for
standing committee of the House, ex-
office of the chairman, to the ranking
with the written permission of the Com-
period; and such information when re-
shall be in order to call up motions to
that committee, as necessary. Any such
cept for the Committee on Appropria-
minority party member, and to the pro-
mittee on House Administration.
ported shall be published in the Con-
discharge committees it shall be in or-
additional expense resolution reported
tions, and (B) no member shall ap-
fessional staff, as the committee con-
gressional Record.
der for any Member of the House to call
to the House shall not be considered in
point more than one person pursuant
siders advisable Subject to subparagraph
(f) If a request for the appointment of
up for consideration by the House such
the House unless a printed report on that
to the above provisions.
(2) of this paragraph and paragraph (f)
a minority professional staff member un-
RULE XII
adverse report, and it shall be in order
resolution has been available to the
of this clause, the clerical staff shall be
der paragraph (a), or a minority clerical
(5) The staff positions made avail-
RESIDENT COMMISSIONER FROM PUERTO
to move the adoption by the House of
appointed by majority vote of the com-
staff member under paragraph (b), is
Members of the House for at least one
able to the subcommittee chairman
RICO, AND DELEGATE FROM THE DISTRICT
mittee, without regard to race, creed, sex,
made when no vacancy exists to which
such resolution adversely reported not-
and ranking minority party members
OF COLUMBIA
calendar day prior to the consideration
withstanding the adverse report of the
of that resolution in the House. Such re-
pursuant to subparagraphs (1) and
or age. Except as provided by subpara-
that appointment may be made, the com-
mittee nevertheless shall appoint, under
1. The Resident Commissioner to the
Committee on Rules, and the Speaker
port shall, for the information of the
(2) of this paragraph shall be made
graph (2) of this paragraph, the clerical
shall recognize the Member seeking rec-
House—
available from the staff positions pro-
staff shall handle committee correspon-
paragraph (a) or paragraph (b) as ap-
United States from Puerto Rico shall be
dence and stenographic work both for the
plicable, the person selected by the mi-
elected to serve on standing committees
ognition for that purpose as a question
(1) state the total amount of addi-
vided under clause 6 of Rule XI unless
of the highest privilege.
tional funds to be provided to the com-
such staff positions are made available
committee staff and for the chairman
nority and acceptable to the committee.
in the same manner as Members of the
(d) Whenever the Committee on Rules
and the ranking minority party member
The person so appointed shall serve as
House and shall possess in such commit-
mittee under the additional expense
pursuant to a primary or additional
an additional member of the professional
tees the same powers and privileges as
reports a resolution repealing or amend-
resolution and the purpose or purposes
expense resolution.
on matters related to committee work.
ing any of the Rules of the House of
for which those additional funds are to
(2) Subject to paragraph (f) of this
staff or the clerical staff, as the case may
the other Members.
Committee Staffs
Representatives or part thereof it shall
clause, whenever a majority of the mi-
be, of the committee, and shall be paid
2. The Delegate from the District of
be used by the committee; and
Columbia shall be elected to serve as a
include in its report or in an accompany-
(2) state the reason or reasons for
6. (a) (1) Subject to subparagraph (2)
nority party members of a standing com-
from the contingent fund, until such a
member of the Committee on the Dis-
ing document-
the failure to procure the additional
of this paragraph and paragraph (f) of
mittee (except the Committee on Stand-
vacancy (other than a vacancy in the
ards of Official Conduct) SO request, four
position of head of the professional staff,
trict of Columbia and each Delegate to
(1) the text of any part of the Rules
funds for the committee by means of
this clause, each standing committee may
the House shall be elected to serve on
of the House of Representatives which is
the primary expense resolution.
appoint, by majority vote of the com-
persons may be selected, by majority vote
by whatever title designated) occurs, at
mittee, not more than eighteen profes-
of the minority party members, for ap-
which time that person shall be deemed
standing committees of the House in the
proposed to be repealed; and
(c) The preceding provisions of this
same manner as Members of the House
(2) a comparative print of any part
clause do not apply to-
sional staff members. Each professional
pointment by the committee to positions
to have been appointed to that vacancy.
of the resolution making such an amend-
staff member appointed under this sub-
on the clerical staff from among the
If such vacancy occurs on the profes-
and shall possess in all committees on
(1) any resolution providing for the
number of clerks authorized by subpara-
sional staff when seven or more persons
which he serves the same powers and
ment and of any part of the Rules of the
payment from the contingent fund of
paragraph shall be assigned to the chair-
House of Representatives to be amended,
the House of sums necessary to pay
man and the ranking minority party
graph (1) of this paragraph. The com-
have been so appointed who are eligible
privileges as the other Members.
showing by an appropriate typographical
member of such committee, as the com-
mittee shall appoint to those positions
to fill that vacancy, a majority of the
RULE XIII
compensation for staff services per-
device the omissions and insertions pro-
formed for, or to pay other expenses
mittee considers advisable.
any person SO selected whose character
minority party members shall designate
CALENDARS AND REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
posed to be made.
of, any standing committee at any
(2) Subject to paragraph (f) of this
and qualifications are acceptable to a
which of those persons shall fill that
clause, whenever a majority of the mi-
vacancy.
1. There shall be three calendars to
time from and after the beginning of
majority of the committee. If the com-
COMMITTEE EXPENSES
which all business reported from com-
any year and before the date of adop-
nority party members of a standing com-
mittee determines that the character and
(g) Each staff member appointed pur-
mittees shall be referred, viz.:
5. (a) Whenever any standing com-
tion by the House of the primary ex-
mittee (except the Committee on Stand-
qualifications of any person so selected
suant to a request by minority party
First. A Calendar of the Committee of
mittee (except the Committee on Ap-
pense resolution providing funds to
ards of Official Conduct) SO request, not
are unacceptable to the committee, a
members under paragraph (a) or (b) of
the Whole House on the State of the
propriations and the Committee on the
pay the expenses of that committee
more than six persons may be selected,
majority of the minority party members
this clause, and each staff member ap-
Union, to which shall be referred bills
Budget) is to be granted authorization
for that year; or
by majority vote of the minority party
may select other persons for appointment
pointed to assist minority party mem-
for the payment, from the contingent
(2) any resolution providing in any
members, for appointment by the com-
by the committee to the position involved
bers of a committee pursuant to an ex-
raising revenues, general appropriation
bills, and bills of a public character di-
fund of the House, of its expenses in any
Congress, for all of the standing com-
mittee as professional staff members
on the clerical staff until such appoint-
pense resolution described in paragraph
rectly or indirectly appropriating money
year, other than those expenses to be
mittees of the House, additional office
from among the number authorized by
ment is made. Each clerk appointed un-
(a) or (b) of clause 5, shall be accorded
or
property.
paid from appropriations provided by
equipment, airmail and special deliv-
subparagraph (1) of this paragraph. The
der this subparagraph shall handle com-
equitable treatment with respect to the
Second. A House Calendar, to which
statute, such authorization initially shall
ery postage stamps, supplies, staff per-
committee shall appoint any persons SO
mittee correspondence and stenographic
fixing of his or her rate of pay, the as-
shall be referred all bills of a public
be procured by one primary expense
sonnel, or any other specific item for
selected whose character and qualifica-
work for the minority party members of
signment to him or her of work facilities,
character not raising revenue nor di-
resolution for that committee providing
the operation of the standing com-
tions are acceptable to a majority of the
the committee and for any members of
and the accessibility to him or her of
rectly or indirectly appropriating money
funds for the payment of the expenses
mittees, and containing an authoriza-
committee. If the committee determines
the professional staff appointed under
committee records.
or property.
of the committee for that year from the
tion for the payment from the con-
that the character and qualifications of
subparagraph (2) of paragraph (a) of
(h) Paragraphs (a) and (b) of this
Third. A Calendar of the Committee
contingent fund of the House. Any such
tingent fund of the House of the ex-
any person SO selected are unacceptable
this clause on matters related to com-
clause shall not be construed to authorize
of the Whole House, to which shall be
primary expense resolution reported to
penses of any foregoing items provid-
to the committee, a majority of the mi-
mittee work.
the appointment of additional profes-
referred all bills of a private character.
the House shall not be considered in the
ed by that resolution, subject to and
nority party members may select other
(3) Services of the clerical staff mem-
sional or clerical staff members of a com-
2. All reports of committees, except as
House unless a printed report on that
until enactment of the provisions of
persons for appointment by the commit-
bers of each standing committee may be
mittee pursuant to a request under either
provided in clause 4(a) of Rule XI, to-
resolution has been available to the
the resolution as permanent law.
tee to the professional staff until such
terminated by majority vote of the com-
of such paragraphs by the minority party
gether with the views of the minority,
Members of the House for at least one
(d) From the funds provided for the
appointment is made. Each professional
mittee.
members of that committee if six or more
shall be delivered to the Clerk for print-
calendar day prior to the consideration
appointment of committee staff pursu-
staff member appointed under this sub-
(4) The foregoing provisions of this
professional staff members or four or
ing and reference to the proper calen-
of that resolution in the House. Such re-
ant to primary and additional expense
paragraph shall be assigned to such com-
paragraph do not apply to the Commit-
more clerical staff members, provided for
dar under the direction of the Speaker,
port shall, for the information of the
resolutions—
mittee business as the minority party
tee on Appropriations and to the Com-
in paragraph (a) (1) or paragraph (b)
in accordance with the foregoing clause,
House-
(1) The chairman of each standing
members of the committee consider ad-
mittee on the Budget.
(1) of this clause, as the case may be,
and the titles or subject thereof shall be
(1) state the total amount of the
subcommittee of a standing committee
visable.
(c) Each employee on the professional
who are satisfactory to a majority of the
entered on the Journal and printed in
funds to be provided to the committee
of the House is authorized to appoint
(3) The professional staff members of
staff, and each employee on the clerical
minority party members, are otherwise
the Record: Provided, That bills report-
under the primary expense resolution
one staff member who shall serve at
each standing committee-
staff, of each standing committee, is en-
assigned to assist the minority party
ed adversely shall be laid on the table,
for all anticipated activities and pro-
the pleasure of the subcommittee
(A) shall be appointed on a perma-
titled to pay at a single per annum gross
members.
unless the committee reporting a bill, at
grams of the committee; and
chairman.
nent basis, without regard to race,
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
R 15
R 14
RULES OF THE
the time, or any Member within three
(2) a comparison of the estimate of
desk and read aloud to the House; but
clerks, and shall be entered in the Jour-
"(1) before or during the offering of
postpone indefinitely; which several mo-
he shall not be held to answer, nor be
nal and the absentees noted, but the
prayer;
tions shall have precedence in the fore-
days thereafter, shall request its refer-
costs described in subparagraphs (1)
ence to the calendar, when it shall be
subject to the censure of the House
doors shall not be closed except when
"(2) during the administration of
going order; and no motion to postpone
of this paragraph made by such com-
therefor, if further debate or other busi-
SO ordered by the Speaker. Members
the oath of office to the Speaker or
to a day certain, to refer, or to postpone
referred, as provided in clause 1 of the
mittee with any estimate of such costs
shall have not less than fifteen minutes
Speaker pro tempore or a Member,
made by any Government agency and
ness has intervened.
indefinitely, being decided, shall be again
rule.
3. Whenever a committee reports a bill
submitted to such committee.
6. No Member shall speak more than
from the ordering of a call of the House
Delegate, or Resident Commissioner;
allowed on the same day at the same
or a joint resolution repealing or amend-
once to the same question without leave
to have their presence recorded.
"(3) during the reception of any
stage of the question. After the previous
(b) It shall not be in order to consider
of the House, unless he be the mover,
3. On the demand of any Member, or
message from the President of the
question shall have been ordered on the
ing any statute or part thereof it shall
any such bill or joint resolution in the
include in its report or in an accompany-
proposer, or introducer of the matter
at the suggestion of the Speaker, the
United States or the United States
passage of a bill or joint resolution one
House if the report of the committee
which reported that bill or joint resolu-
pending, in which case he shall be per-
names of Members sufficient to make a
Senate, and
motion to recommit shall be in order,
ing document-
(1) The text of the statute or part
mitted to speak in reply, but not until
quorum in the Hall of the House who do
"(4) during the offering, considera-
and the Speaker shall give preference in
tion does not comply with paragraph (a)
thereof which is proposed to be re-
of this clause.
every Member choosing to speak shall
not vote shall be noted by the Clerk and
tion, and disposition of any motion in-
recognition for such purpose to a Mem-
recorded in the Journal, and reported
cidental to a call of the House.
ber who is opposed to the bill or joint
pealed; and
(c) For the purposes of this clause, the
have spoken.
to the Speaker with the names of the
"(b) A quorum shall not be required
resolution. However, with respect to any
(2) A comparative print of that part
members of the Joint Committee on
7. While the Speaker is putting a ques-
Members voting, and be counted and an-
in Committee of the Whole for agree-
motion to recommit with instructions
of the bill or joint resolution making
Atomic Energy who are Members of the
tion or addressing the House no Mem-
nounced in determining the presence of
ment to a motion that the Committee
after the previous question shall have
the amendment and of the statute or
House shall be deemed to be a committee
ber shall walk out of or across the hall,
a quorum to do business.
rise.
been ordered, it always shall be in order
part thereof proposed to be amended.
of the House.
nor, when a Member is speaking, pass
4. Subject to clause 5 of this Rule,
"(c) After the presence of a quorum is
to debate such motion for ten minutes
showing by stricken-through type and
(d) For the purposes of subparagraph
between him and the Chair; and dur-
whenever a quorum fails to vote on any
once ascertained on any day on which
before the vote is taken on that motion,
italics, parallel columns, other ap-
(2) of paragraph (a) of this clause, a
ing the session of the House no Member
question, and a quorum is not present
the House is meeting, a point of order of
one half of such time to be given to de-
propriate typographical devices the
Government agency includes any depart-
shall wear his hat, or remain by the
and objection is made for that cause, un-
no quorum may not be made or enter-
bate by the mover of the motion and one
omissions and insertions proposed to
ment, agency, establishment, wholly
Clerk's desk during the call of the roll
less the House shall adjourn there shall
tained-
half to debate in opposition to the mo-
be made: Provided, however, That if
owned Government corporation, or in-
or the counting of ballots or smoke upon
be a call of the House, and the Sergeant-
"(1) during the reading of the
tion. It shall be in order at any time
a committee reports such a bill or joint
strumentality of the Federal Govern-
the floor of the House: and the Ser-
at-Arms shall forthwith proceed to bring
Journal;
during a day for the Speaker, in his dis-
resolution with amendments or an
ment or the government of the District
geant-at-Arms and Doorkeeper are
in absent Members; and the yeas and
"(2) during the period after 2 Com-
cretion, to entertain a motion that when
amendment in the nature of a substi-
of
Columbia.
charged with the strict enforcement of
nays on the pending question shall at
mittee of the Whole has risen after
the House adjourns it stand adjourned
tute for the entire bill, such report
(e) The preceding provisions of this
this clause. Neither shall any person be
the same time be considered as ordered.
completing its consideration of a bill
to a day and time certain. Such a motion
shall include a comparative print
clause do not apply to the Committee on
allowed to smoke upon the floor of the
The Clerk shall call the roll, and each
or resolution and before the Chair-
shall be of equal privilege with the mo-
showing any changes in existing law
Appropriations, the Committee on House
House at any time.
Member as he answers to his name may
man of the Committee has reported
tion to adjourn provided for in this
proposed by the amendment or sub-
Administration, the Committee on Rules,
8. It shall not be in order for any
vote on the pending question, and, after
the bill or resolution back to the
clause and shall be determined without
stitute instead of as in the bill as in-
and the Committee on Standards of Offi-
Member to introduce to or to bring to
the roll call is completed, each Member
House; and
debate.
troduced.
cial Conduct.
the attention of the House during its
arrested shall be brought by the Ser-
"(3) during any period of a legisla-
5. The hour at which the House ad-
4. After a bill has been favorably re-
RULE XIV
sessions any occupant in the gallaries of
geant-at-Arms before the House, where-
tive day when the Speaker is recogniz-
journs shall be entered on the Journal.
ported and shall be upon either the
OF DECORUM AND DEBATE
the House: nor may the Speaker enter-
upon he shall be noted as present, dis-
ing Members (including a Delegate or
6. On the demand of any Member, be-
House or Union Calendar any Member
tain a request for the suspension of this
charged from arrest, and given an op-
may file with the Clerk a notice that he
1. When any Member desires to speak
Resident Commissioner) to address the
fore the question is put, a question shall
rule by unanimous consent or otherwise.
portunity to vote and his vote shall be
desires such bill placed upon a special
or deliver any matter to the House, he
House under special orders, with no
be divided if it includes propositions SO
RULE XV
recorded. If those voting on the question
shall rise and respectfully address him-
measure or matter then under con-
distinct in substance that one being
calendar to be known as the "Consent
and those who are present and decline
ON CALLS OF THE ROLL AND HOUSE
sideration for disposition by the House.
taken away a substantive proposition
Calendar.' On the first and third Mon-
self to "Mr. Speaker," and, on being rec-
to vote shall together make a majority
"(d) When the presence of a quorum
shall remain: Provided, That any motion
days of each month immediately after
ognized, may address the House from
1. Subject to clause 5 of this Rule,
of the House, the Speaker shall declare
any place on the floor or from the Clerk's
is ascertained, a further point of order
or resolution to elect the members or any
the reading of the Journal, the Speaker
upon every roll call the names of the
that a quorum is constituted, and the
desk, and shall confine himself to the
that a quorum is not present may not
portion of the members of the standing
shall direct the Clerk to call the bills in
Members shall be called alphabetically by
pending question shall be decided as the
question under debate, avoiding person-
thereafter be made or entertained until
committees of the House and the joint
numerical order, which have been for
surname, except when two or more have
majority of those voting shall appear.
three legislative days upon the "Consent
ality.
additional business intervenes. For
standing committees shall not be divisi-
the same surname, in which case the
And thereupon further proceedings un-
name of the State shall be added; and if
der the call shall be considered as dis-
purposes of this paragraph, the term
ble, nor shall any resolution or order re-
Calendar.' Should objection be made to
2. When two or more Members rise at
once, the Speaker shall name the Mem-
there be two such Members from the
'business' does not include any matter,
ported by the Committee on Rules, pro-
the consideration of any bill SO called it
pensed with. At any time after the roll
shall be carried over on the calendar
ber who is first to speak; and no Member
same State, the whole name shall be
proceeding. or period referred to in para-
viding a special order of business be
call has been completed, the Speaker
divisible.
without prejudice to the next day when
shall occupy more than one hour in de-
called, and after the roll has been once
may entertain a motion to adjourn, if
graph (a), (b), or (c) of this clause for
called, the Clerk shall call in their alpha-
which a quorum is not required or a point
7. A motion to strike out and insert is
the "Consent Calendar" is again called.
bate on any question in the House or
seconded by a majority of those present,
of order of no quorum may not be made
indivisible, but a motion to strike out
and if objected to by three or more Mem-
in committee, except as further provided
betical order the names of those not vot-
to be ascertained by actual count by the
ing. Member appearing after the second
or entertained."
being lost shall neither preclude amend-
bers it shall immediately be stricken
in this rule.
Speaker; and if the House adjourns, all
ment nor motion to strike out and insert;
from the calendar, and shall not there-
3. The Member reporting the measure
call, but before the result is announced,
proceedings under this clause shall be
RULE XVI
and no motion or proposition on a sub-
after during the same session of that
under consideration from a committee
may vote or announce a pair.
vacated.
ject different from that under consid-
Congress be placed again thereon: Pro-
may open and close, where general de-
2. (a) In the absence of a quorum, fif-
"5. Unless, in his discretion, the
ON MOTIONS, THEIR PRECEDENCE, ETC.
eration shall be admitted under color of
vided, That no bill shall be called twice
bate has been had thereon; and if it shall
teen Members, including the Speaker, if
Speaker orders the calling of the names
1. Every motion made to the House
amendment.
on the same legislative day.
extend beyond one day, he shall be en-
there is one, shall be authorized to com-
of Members in the manner provided for
and entertained by the Speaker shall be
8. Pending a motion to suspend the
5. There shall also be a Calendar of
titled to one hour to close, notwithstand-
pel the attendance of absent Members;
under the preceding provisions of this
reduced to writing on the demand of any
rules, the Speaker may entertain one
Motions to Discharge Committees, as
ing he may have used an hour in open-
and those for whom no sufficient excuse
rule, upon any roll call or quorum call
Member, and shall be entered on the
motion that the House adjourn; but af-
provided in clause 4 of Rule XXVII.
ing.
is made may, by order of a majority of
the names of such Members voting or
Journal with the name of the Member
ter the result thereon is announced he
6. Calendars shall be printed daily.
4. If any Members, in speaking or
those present, be sent for and arrested,
present shall be recorded by electronic
making it, unless it is withdrawn the
shall not entertain any other motion till
7. (a) The report accompanying each
otherwise, transgress the rules of the
wherever they may be found, by officers
device. In any such case, the Clerk shall
same day.
the vote is taken on suspension.
bill or joint resolution of a public char-
House, the Speaker shall, or any Mem-
to be appointed by the Sergeant-at-
enter in the Journal and publish in the
2. When a motion has been made, the
9. At any time after the reading of the
acter reported by any committee shall
ber may, call him to order; in which case
Arms for that purpose, and their at-
Congressional Record, in alphabetical
Speaker shall state it or (if it be in
Journal it shall be in order, by direction
contain-
he shall immediately sit down, unless
tendance secured and retained; and the
order in each category, a list of names of
writing) cause it to be read aloud by the
of the appropriate committees, to move
(1) an estimate, made by such com-
permitted, on motion of another Mem-
House shall determine upon what condi-
those Members recorded as voting in the
Clerk before being debated, and it shall
that the House resolve itself into the
mittee, of the costs which would be in-
ber, to explain, and the House shall, if
tion they shall be discharged. Members
affirmative, of these Members recorded
then be in possession of the House, but
Committee of the Whole House on the
curred in carrying out such bill or joint
appealed to. decide on the case without
who voluntarily appear shall, unless the
as voting in the negative, and of those
may be withdrawn at any time before
State of the Union for the purpose of
resolution in the fiscal year in which
debate; if the decision is in favor of the
House otherwise direct, be immediately
Members answering present, as the case
a decision or amendment.
considering bills raising revenue, or gen-
it is reported and in each of the five
Member called to order, he shall be at
admitted to the Hall of the House, and
may be, as if their names had been
3. When any motion or proposition is
eral appropriation bills.
fiscal years following such fiscal year
liberty to proceed, but not otherwise;
they shall report their names to the
called in the manner provided for under
made, the question, Will the House now
10. No dilatory motion shall be enter-
(or for the authorized duration of any
and, if the case requires it, he shall be
Clerk to be entered upon the Journal
such preceding provisions. Members shall
consider it? Shall not be put unless de-
tained by the Speaker.
program authorized by such bill or
liable to censure or such punishment as
as present.
have not less than fifteen minutes from
manded by a Member.
the House may deem proper.
RULE XVII
joint resolution, if less than five
(b) Subject to clause 5 of this Rule,
the ordering of the roll call or quorum
4. When a question is under debate,
years), except that. in the case of
5. If a Member is called to order for
when a call of the House in the absence
call to have their vote or presence re-
no motion shall be received but to ad-
PREVIOUS QUESTION
measures affecting the revenues, such
words spoken in debate, the Member
of a quorum is ordered, the Speaker shall
corded.
journ, to lay on the table, for the pre-
1. There shall be a motion for the pre-
reports shall require only an estimate
calling him to order shall indicate the
name one or more clerks to tell the
"6. (a) It shall not be in order to make
vious question (which motions shall be
vious question, which, being ordered by a
of the gain or loss in revenues for a
words excepted to, and they shall be
Members who are present. The names of
or entertain a point of order that a quo-
decided without debate), to postpone to
majority of Members voting, if a quorum
one-year period; and
taken down in writing at the Clerk's
those present shall be recorded by such
rum is not present-
a day certain, to refer, or to amend, or
be present, shall have the effect to cut
R 16
RULES OF THE
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
R 17
off all debate and bring the House to a
House on the State of the Union, if,
4. No bill for the payment or adjudi-
direct vote upon the immediate question
originating in the House, it would be sub-
cation of any private claim against the
neous reference of a petition or private
made, or releasing any liability to the
Member, the number of the bill to which
or questions on which it has been asked
ject to that point: Provided, however,
Government shall be referred, except by
bill under this clause shall not confer
United States for money or property, or
it will be offered and the point in the
and ordered. The previous question may
That a motion to disagree with the
unanimous consent, to any other than
jurisdiction upon the committee to con-
referring any claim to the Court of
bill or amendment thereto where the
be asked and ordered upon a single mo-
amendments of the Senate to a House
the following committees, namely: To
sider or report the same.
Claims, shall be first considered in a
amendment is intended to be offered, and
tion, a series of motions allowable under
bill or resolution and request or agree to
the Committee on Foreign Affairs or to
4. All other bills, memorials, and
Committee of the Whole, and a point of
shall appear in a portion of the Record
the rules, or an amendment or amend-
a conference with the Senate, or a motion
the Committee on the Judiciary.
resolutions may, in like manner, be de-
order under this rule shall be good at any
designated for that purpose.
ments, or may be made to embrace all
to insist on the House amendments to a
5. No bill or joint resolution carrying
livered, indorsed with the names of
time before the consideration of a bill
7. A motion to strike out the enact-
authorized motions or amendments and
Senate bill or resolution and request or
appropriations shall be reported by any
Members introducing them, to the
has commenced.
ing words of a bill shall have precedence
include the bill to its passage or rejec-
agree to a conference with the Senate,
committee not having jurisdiction to re-
Speaker, to be by him referred, and the
4. In Committees of the Whole House
of a motion to amend, and, if carried,
tion. It shall be in order, pending the
shall always be in order if the Speaker, in
port appropriations, nor shall an amend-
titles and references thereof and of all
business on their calendars may be taken
shall be considered equivalent to its re-
motion for, or after the previous question
his discretion, recognizes for that pur-
ment proposing an appropriation be in
bills, resolutions, and documents re-
up in regular order, or in such order as
jection. Whenever a bill is reported from
shall have been ordered on its passage,
pose and if the motion is made by direc-
order during the consideration of a bill
ferred under the rules shall be entered
the committee may determine unless the
a Committee of the Whole with an ad-
for the Speaker to entertain and submit
tion of the committee having jurisdic-
or joint resolution reported by a com-
on the Journal and printed in the Record
bill to be considered was determined by
verse recommendation and such recom-
a motion to commit, with or without in-
tion of the subject matter of the bill or
mittee not having that jurisdiction. A
of the next day, and correction in case
the House at the time of going into com-
mendation is disagreed to by the House,
structions, to a standing or select com-
resolution.
question of order on an appropriation
of error of reference may be made by the
mittee, but bills for raising revenue, gen-
the bill shall stand recommitted to the
mittee.
2. No amendment of the Senate to a
in any such bill, joint resolution, or
House, without debate, in accordance
eral appropriation bills, and bills for the
said committee without further action
2. A call of the House shall not be in
general appropriation bill which would
amendment thereto may be raised at any
with Rule XI, on any day immediately
improvement of rivers and harbors shall
by the House, but before the question of
order after the previous question is or-
be in violation of the provisions of clause
time.
after the reading of the Journal, by
have precedence.
concurrence is submitted it is in order to
dered, unless it shall appear upon an
2 of Rule XXI, if said amendment had
6. No general appropriation bill or
unanimous consent, or on motion of a
5. When general debate is closed by
entertain a motion to refer the bill to
actual count by the Speaker that a quo-
originated in the House, nor any amend-
amendment thereto shall be received or
committee claiming jurisdiction, or on
order of the House, any Member shall be
any committee, with or without instruc-
rum is not present.
ment of the Senate providing for an ap-
considered if it contains a provision re-
the report of the committee to which
allowed five minutes to explain any
tions, and when the same is again re-
3. All incidental questions of order
propriation upon any bill other than a
appropriating unexpended balances of
the bill has been erroneously referred.
amendment he may offer, after which
ported to the House it shall be referred
arising after a motion is made for the
general appropriation bill, shall be agreed
appropriations; except that this provi-
Two or more but not more than twenty-
the Member who shall first obtain the
to the Committee of the Whole without
previous question, and pending such mo-
to by the managers on the part of the
sion shall not apply to appropriations
five Members may introduce jointly any
floor shall be allowed to speak five min-
debate.
tion, shall be decided, whether on appeal
House unless specific authority to agree
in continuation of appropriations for
bill, memorial, or resolution to which
utes in opposition to it, and there shall be
8. The rules of proceeding in the House
or otherwise, without debate.
to such amendment shall be first given
public works on which work has
this paragraph applies.
no further debate thereon, but the same
shall be observed in Committee of the
by the House by a separate vote on every
commenced.
5. All resolutions of inquiry addressed
RULE XVIII
privilege of debate shall be allowed in
Whole House SO far as they may be
such amendment.
7. No general appropriation bill shall
to the heads of executive departments
favor of and against any amendment
applicable.
RECONSIDERATION
be considered in the House until printed
shall be reported to the House within
that may be offered to an amendment;
RULE XXIV
1. When a motion has been made and
RULE XXI
committee hearings and a committee
one week after presentation.
and neither an amendment nor an
carried or lost, it shall be in order for
ON BILLS
report thereon have been available for
6. When a bill, resolution, or memo-
ORDER OF BUSINESS
amendment to an amendment shall be
any member of the majority, on the same
1. Bills and joint resolutions on their
the Members of the House for at least
rial is introduced "by request," these
withdrawn by the mover thereof unless
1. The daily order of business shall be
or succeeding day, to move for the re-
passage shall be read the first time by
three calendar days (excluding Satur-
words shall be entered upon the Journal
by the unanimous consent of the com-
as follows:
consideration thereof, and such motion
title and the second time in full, when
days, Sundays, and legal holidays).
and printed in the Record.
mittee. Upon the offering of any amend-
First. Prayer by the Chaplain.
shall take precedence of all other ques-
if the previous question is ordered, the
RULE XXII
RULE XXIII
ment by a Member, when the House is
Second. Reading and approval of the
tion except the consideration of a con-
Journal.
Speaker shall state, the question to be:
meeting in the Committee of the Whole,
ference report or a motion to adjourn,
Shall the bill be engrossed and read a
OF PETITIONS, MEMORIALS, BILLS, AND
OF COMMITTEES OF THE WHOLE HOUSE
the Clerk shall promptly transmit to the
Third. Correction of reference of pub-
and shall not be withdrawn after the said
RESOLUTIONS
lic bills.
third time and, if decided in the affirma-
1. In all cases, in forming a Commit-
majority committee table five copies of
succeeding day without the consent of
tive, it shall be read the third time by
1. Members having petitions or me-
tee of the Whole House, the Speaker
the amendment and five copies to the
Fourth. Disposal of business on the
the House, and thereafter any Member
title, and the question shall then be put
morials or bills of a private nature to
shall leave his chair after appointing a
minority committee table. Further, the
Speaker's table.
may call it up for consideration: Pro-
upon its passage.
present may deliver them to the Clerk
Chairman to preside, who shall, in case
Clerk shall deliver at least one copy of
Fifth. Unfinished business.
vided, That such motion, if made during
2. No appropriation shall be reported
indorsing their names and reference or
of disturbance or disorderly conduct in
the amendment to the majority cloak
Sixth. The morning hour for the con-
the last 6 days of a session, shall be
in any general appropriation bill, or be
disposition to be made thereof: and said
the galleries or lobby, have power to
room and at least one copy to the minor-
sideration of bills called up by com-
disposed of when made.
in order as an amendment thereto, for
petitions and memorials and bills of a
cause the same to be cleared.
ity cloak room.
mittee.
2. No bill, petition, memorial, or reso-
any expenditure not previously author-
private nature, except such as, in the
2. Whenever a Committee of the Whole
6. The committee may, by the vote of a
Seventh. Motions to go into Commit-
lution referred to a committee, or re-
ized by law, unless in continuation of
judgment of the Speaker, are of an
finds itself without a quorum, which shall
majority of the members present, at any
tee of the Whole House on the State of
ported therefrom for printing and recom-
appropriations for such public works and
obscene or insulting character, shall be
consist of one hundred Members, the
the Union.
time after the five minutes' debate has
mitment, shall be brought back into the
objects as are already in progress. Nor
entered on the Journal, with the names
Chairman shall invoke the procedure for
begun upon proposed amendments to
Eighth. Orders of the day.
House on a motion to reconsider; and all
shall any provision in any such bill or
of the Members presenting them. and
the call of the roll under clause 5 of Rule
any section or paragraph of a bill, close
2. Business on the Speaker's table shall
the Clerk shall furnish a transcript of
XV, unless, in his discretion, he orders
be disposed of as follows:
bills, petitions, memorials, or resolutions
amendment thereto changing existing
all debate upon such section or para-
reported from a committee shall be ac-
law be in order, except such as being
such entry to the official reporters of
a call of the committee to be taken by the
graph or, at its election, upon the pend-
Messages from the President shall be
companied by reports in writing, which
germane to the subject matter of the bill
debates for publication in the Record.
procedure set forth in clause 2(b) of Rule
ing amendments only (which motion
referred to the appropriate committees
shall be printed.
shall retrench expenditures by the reduc-
2. No private bill or resolution (in-
XV; and thereupon the Committee shall
shall be decided without debate) but
without debate. Reports and communi-
tion of the number and salary of the
cluding so-called omnibus claims or
rise, and the Chairman shall report the
this shall not preclude further amend-
cations from heads of departments, and
RULE XIX
officers of the United States, by the re-
pension bills), and no amendment to
names of the absentees to the House,
ment, to be decided without debate. How-
other communications addressed to the
OF AMENDMENTS
duction of the compensation of any per-
any bill or resolution, authorizing or
which shall be entered on the Journal;
ever, if debate is closed on any section or
House, and bills, resolutions, and mes-
When a motion or proposition is under
son paid out of the Treasury of the
directing (1) the payment of money for
but if on such call a quorum shall appear,
paragraph under this clause before there
sages from the Senate may be referred
consideration a motion to amend and a
property damages, for personal injuries
the Committee shall thereupon resume
has been debate on any amendment
to the appropriate committees in the
United States, or by the reduction of
motion to amend that amendment shall
amounts of money covered by the bill:
or death for which suit may be instituted
its sitting without further order of the
which any Member shall have caused to
same manner and with the same right of
be in order, and it shall also be in order
Provided, That it shall be in order further
under the Tort Claims Procedure as
House.
be printed in the Congressional Record
correction as public bills presented by
to offer a further amendment by way of
to amend such bill upon the report of the
provided in Title 28, United States Code,
If, at any time during the conduct of
after the reporting of the bill by the
Members; but House bills with Senate
substitute, to which one amendment may
committee or any joint commission
or for a pension (other than to carry
any quorum call in the Committee of the
comittee but at least one day prior to
amendments which do not require con-
be offered, but which shall not be voted
authorized by law or the House Members
out a provision of law or treaty stipula-
Whole, the Chairman determines that
floor consideration of such amendment,
sideration in a Committee of the Whole
on until the original matter is perfected,
of any such commission having jurisdic-
tion) (2) the construction of a bridge
a quorum is present, he may, in his dis-
the Member who caused such amend-
may be at once disposed of as the House
but either may be withdrawn before
tion of the subject matter of such amend-
across a navigable stream; or (3) the
cretion, declare that a quorum is con-
ment to be printed in the Record shall
may determine, as may also Senate bills
amendment or decision is had thereon.
ment, which amendment being germane
correction of a military or naval record,
stituted. Proceedings under the call then
be given five minutes in which to ex-
substantially the same as House bills al-
Amendments to the title of a bill or reso-
to the subject matter of the bill shall re-
shall be received or considered in the
shall be considered as vacated, and the
plain such amendment, after which the
ready favorably reported by a committee
lution shall not be in order until after
trench expenditures.
House.
Committee shall not rise but shall con-
first person to obtain the floor shall be
of the House, and not required to be con-
its passage, and shall be decided without
3. A report from the Committee on Ap-
3. Any petition or memorial or pri-
tinue its sitting and resume its business."
given five minutes in opposition to it,
sidered in Committee of the Whole, be
debate.
vate bill excluded under this rule shall
3. All motions or propositions involv-
and there shall be no further debate
disposed of in the same manner on mo-
RULE XX
propriations accompanying any general
appropriation bill making an appropria-
be returned to the Member from whom
ing a tax or charge upon the people, all
thereon; but such time for debate shall
tion directed to be made by such com-
OF AMENDMENTS OF THE SENATE
tion for any purpose shall contain a con-
it was received; and petitions and pri-
proceedings touching appropriations of
mittee.
not be allowed when the offering of such
cise statement describing fully the effect
vate bills which have been inappropri-
money, or bills making appropriations of
amendment is dilatory. Material placed
3. The consideration of the unfinished
1. Any amendment of the Senate to
ately referred may, by the direction of
money or property, or requiring such ap-
in the Record pursuant to this provision
business in which the House may be en-
any House bill shall be subject to the
of any provision of the accompanying
the committee having possession of the
propriations to be made, or authorizing
point of order that it shall first be con-
shall indicate the full text of the proposed
gaged at an adjournment, except busi-
bill which directly or indirectly changes
sidered in the Committee of the Whole
same, be properly referred in the man-
payments out of appropriations already
ness in the morning hour shall be re-
the application of existing law.
amendment, the name of the proponent
sumed as soon as the business on the
ner originally presented; and an erro-
R 18
RULES OF THE
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
R 19
Speaker's table is finished, and at the
the consideration of any bill or resolution
the disposal of such business on the
each motion, on which further proceed-
out intervening motion except one
endar of Motions to Discharge Commit-
same time each day thereafter until dis-
other than an omnibus bill, it shall be
Speaker's table as requires reference
ings were postponed, in the order in
motion to adjourn. Recognition for the
tees and not acted on during the re-
posed of, and the consideration of all
recommitted to the committee which re-
only, shall, when claimed by the Com-
which that motion was entertained.
motions shall be in the order in which
mainder of that session of Congress.
other unfinished business shall be re-
ported the bill or resolution and no reser-
mittee on the District of Columbia, be
"(3) At any time after the vote on the
they have been entered on the Journal.
RULE XXVIII
sumed whenever the class of business to
vation of objection shall be entertained
set apart for the consideration of such
question has been taken on the first mo-
When any motion under this rule
which it belongs shall be in order under
by the Speaker.
business as may be presented by said
tion on which the Speaker has postponed
shall be called up, the bill or resolution
CONFERENCE REPORTS
the rules.
Omnibus bills shall be read for amend-
committee.
further proceedings under this para-
shall be read by title only. After twenty
1. (a) The presentation of reports of
4. After the unfinished business has
ment by paragraph, and no amendment
RULE XXV
graph, the Speaker may, in his discre-
minutes' debate, one-half in favor of
committees of conference shall always
been disposed of, the Speaker shall call
shall be in order except to strike out or
tion, reduce to not less than five minutes
the proposition and one-half in opposi-
be in order, except when the Journal is
PRIORITY OF BUSINESS
each standing committee in regular or-
to reduce amounts of money stated or to
the period of time within which a re-
tion thereto, the House shall proceed
being read, while the roll is being called,
der, and then select committees, and
provide limitations. Any item or matter
All questions relating to the priority of
corded vote on the question may be taken
to vote on the motion to discharge. If
or the House is dividing on any propo-
each committee when named may call up
stricken from an omnibus bill shall not
business shall be decided by a majority
on any or all of the additional motions
the motion prevails to discharge the
sition.
for consideration any bill reported by it
thereafter during the same session of
without debate.
on which the Speaker has postponed fur-
Committee on Rules from any resolu-
(b) After House conferees on any bill
on a previous day and on the House Cal-
Congress be included in any omnibus bill.
RULE XXVI
ther proceedings under this paragraph.
tion pending before the committee, the
or resolution in conference between the
endar, and if the Speaker shall not com-
Upon passage of any such omnibus
"(4) If the House adjourns before the
House shall immediately vote on the
House and Senate shall have been ap-
plete the call of the Committee before
bill, said bill shall be resolved into the
UNFINISHED BUSINESS OF THE SESSION
question is put and determined on all
adoption of said resolution, the Speaker
pointed for twenty calendar days and
the House passes to other business, he
several bills and resolutions of which it is
All business before committees of the
motions on which further proceedings
not entertaining any dilatory or other
shall have failed to make a report, it
shall resume the next call where he left
composed, and such original bills and
House at the end of one session shall be
were postponed under this paragraph,
intervening motion except one motion
is hereby declared to be a motion of the
off, giving preference to the last bill un-
resolutions, with any amendments
resumed at the commencement of the
then, on the next following legislative
to adjourn, and, if said resolution is
highest privilege to move to discharge
der consideration: Provided, That when-
adopted by the House, shall be engrossed,
next session of the same Congress in the
day on which the Speaker is authorized
adopted, then the House shall immedi-
said House conferees and to appoint new
ever any committee shall have occupied
where necessary, and proceedings there-
same manner as if no adjournment had
to entertain motions to suspend the Rules
ately proceed to its execution. If the mo-
conferees, or to instruct said House con-
the morning hour on two days, it shall
on had as if said bills and resolutions
taken place.
and pass bills or resolutions, the first
tion prevails to discharge one of the
ferees; and, further, during the last six
not be in order to call up any other bill
had been passed in the House severally.
RULE XXVII
order of legislative business after the
standing committees of the House from
days of any session of Congress, it shall
until the other committees have been
In the consideration of any omnibus
call of bills and resolutions on the Pri-
any public bill or resolution pending
be a privileged motion to move to dis-
bill the proceedings as set forth above
CHANGE OR SUSPENSION OF RULES
called in their turn.
vate Calendar as provided in clause 6
before the committee, it shall then be
charge, appoint, or instruct, House con-
5. After one hour shall have been de-
shall have the same force and effect as if
1. No rule shall be suspended except
of Rule XXIV shall be the disposition
in order for any Member who signed
ferees after House conferees shall have
voted to the consideration of bills called
each Senate and House bill or resolution
by a vote of two-thirds of the Members
of all such motions, previously undis-
the motion to move that the House pro-
been appointed thirty-six hours without
up by committees, it shall be in order,
therein contained or referred to were
voting, a quorum being present; nor shall
posed of, in the order in which those mo-
ceed to the immediate consideration of
having made a report.
pending consideration or discussion
considered by the House as a separate
the Speaker entertain a motion to su-
tions were entertained."
such bill or resolution (such motion not
(c) Each report made by a committee
thereof, to entertain a motion to go into
and distinct bill or resolution.
spend the rules except on the first and
4. A Member may present to the Clerk
being debatable), and such motion is
of conference to the House shall be
Committee of the Whole House on the
7. On Wednesday of each week no
third Mondays of each month, and on the
a motion in writing to discharge a com-
hereby made of high privilege; and if it
printed as a report of the House. As so
State of the Union, or, when authorized
business shall be in order except as pro-
Tuesdays immediately following those
mittee from the consideration of a public
shall be decided in the affirmative, the
printed, such report shall be accom-
by a committee, to go into the Commit-
vided by clause 4 of this rule unless the
days and during the last six days of a
bill or resolution which has been referred
bill shall be immediately considered un-
panied by an explanatory statement pre-
tee of the Whole House on the State of
House by a two-thirds vote on motion
session.
to it thirty days prior thereto (but only
der the general rules of the House, and
pared jointly by the conferees on the
the Union to consider a particular bill,
to dispense therewith shall otherwise de-
2. All motions to suspend the rules
one motion may be present for each
if unfinished before adjournment of the
part of the House and the conferees on
to which motion one amendment only,
termine. On such a motion there may be
shall, before being submitted to the
bill or resolution) Under this rule it
day on which it is called up it shall re-
the part of the Senate. Such statement
designating another bill, may be made;
debate not to exceed five minutes for and
House, be seconded by a majority by tell-
shall also be in order for a Member to file
main the unfinished business until it is
shall be sufficiently detailed and explicit
and if either motion be determined in
against. On a call of committees under
ers, if demanded.
a motion to discharge the Committee on
fully disposed of. Should the House by
to inform the House as to the effect
the negative, it shall not be in order to
this rule bills may be called up from
3. (a) When a motion to suspend the
Rules from further consideration of any
vote decide against the immediate con-
which the amendments or propositions
make either motion again until the dis-
either the House or the Union Calendar,
rules has been seconded, it shall be in
resolution providing either a special
sideration of such bill or resolution, it
contained in such report will have upon
posal of the matter under consideration
excepting bills which are privileged un-
order, before the final vote is taken
order of business, or a special rule for
shall be referred to its proper calendar
the measure to which those amendments
or discussion.
der the rules; but bills called up from
thereon, to debate the proposition to be
the consideration of any public bill or
and be entitled to the same rights and
or propositions relate.
6. On the first Tuesday of each month
the Union Calendar shall be considered
voted upon for forty minutes, one-half
resolution favoraby reported by a stand-
privileges that it would have had had
2. (a) It shall not be in order to con-
after disposal of such business on the
in Committee of the Whole House on the
of such time to be given to debate in
ing committee, or a special rule for the
the committee to which it was referred
sider the report of a committee of con-
Speaker's table as requires reference
State of the Union. This rule shall not
favor, and one-half to debate in opposi-
consideration of a public bill or resolution
duly reported same to the House for its
ference until the third calendar day
only, the Speaker shall direct the Clerk
apply during the last 2 weeks of the
tion to, such proposition; and the same
which has remained in a standing com-
consideration: Provided, That when any
(excluding any Saturday, Sunday, or
to call the bills and resolutions on the
session. It shall not be in order for the
right of debate shall be allowed whenever
mittee thirty or more days without ac-
perfected motion to discharge a com-
legal holiday) after such report and the
Private Calendar. Should objection be
Speaker to entertain a motion for a re-
the previous question has been ordered on
tion: Provided, That said resolution from
mittee from the consideration of any
accompanying statement shall have been
made by two or more Members to the
cess on any Wednesday except during
any proposition on which there has been
which it is moved to discharge the Com-
public bill or resolution has once been
filed in the House, and such considera-
consideration of any bill or resolution so
the last 2 weeks of the session: Provided,
no debate.
mittee on Rules has been referred to that
acted upon by the House it shall not
tion then shall be in order only if such
called, it shall be recommitted to the
That no more than 2 hours of general
committee at least seven days prior to the
debate shall be permitted on any meas-
"(b) (1) On any legislative day (other
be in order to entertain during the same
report and accompanying statement
committee which reported the bill or
filing of the motion to discharge The
session of Congress any other motion
shall have been printed in the daily edi-
resolution, and no reservation of objec-
ure called up on Calendar Wednesday,
than during the last six days of a session)
motion shall be placed in the custody of
for the discharge from that committee of
tion of the Congressional Record for
tion shall be entertained by the Speaker.
and all debate must be confined to the
on which the Speaker is authorized to
the Clerk, who shall arrange some con-
said measure, or from any other com-
the day on which such report and state-
Such bills and resolutions, if considered,
subject matter of the bill, the time to
entertain motions to suspend the Rules
venient place for the signature of Mem-
mittee of any other bill or resolution
ment shall have been filed; but the pre-
shall be considered in the House as in
be equally divided between those for and
and pass bills or resolutions, he may an-
bers. A signature may be withdrawn by
substantially the same, relating in sub-
ceding provisions of this sentence do not
the Committee of the Whole No other
against the bill: Provided further, That
nounce to the house, in his discretion,
a Member in writing at any time before
stance to or dealing with the same sub-
apply during the last six days of the
business shall be in order on this day un-
whenver any committee shall have oc-
before entertaining the first such mo-
the motion is entered on the Journal.
ject matter, or from the Committee on
session. Nor shall it be in order to con-
less the House, by two-thirds vote on
cupied one Wednesday it shall not be in
tion, that he will postpone further pro-
When a majority of the total membership
Rules of a resolution providing a special
sider any conference report unless copies
motion to dispense therewith, shall
order, unless the House by a two-thirds
ceedings on each of such motions on
of the House shall have signed the mo-
order of business for the consideration
of the report and accompanying state-
otherwise determine On such motion de-
vote shall otherwise determine, to con-
which a recorded vote or the yeas and
tion, it shall be entered on the Journal,
of any other such bill or resolution, in
ment are then available on the floor. The
bate shall be limited to five minutes for
sider any unfinished business previously
nays is ordered or on which the vote is
printed with the signatures thereto in
order that such action by the House
time allotted for debate in the consider-
and five minutes against said motion.
called up by such committee, unless the
objected to under clause 4 of Rule XV,
the Congressional Record, and referred
on a motion to discharge shall be res
ation of any such report shall be equally
On the third Tuesday of each month
previous question had been ordered
until all of such motions on that legisla-
to the Calendar of Motions to Discharge
adjudicata for the remainder of that
divided between the majority party and
after the disposal of such business on the
thereon, upon any succeeding Wednes-
tive day have been entertained and any
Committees.
session; Provided further, That if be-
the minority party.
Speaker's table as requires reference
day until the other committees have
debate thereon concluded, with the ques-
On the second and fourth Mondays of
fore any one motion to discharge a com-
(b) It shall not be in order to consider
only, the Speaker may direct the Clerk
been called in their turn under this rule;
tion having been put and determined on
each month, except during the last six
mittee has been acted upon by the House
any amendment (including an amend-
to call the bills and resolutions on the
Provided, That when, during any one
each such motion on which the taking
days of any session of Congress, immedi-
there are on the Calendar of Motions to
ment in the nature of a substitute) pro-
Private Calendar, preference to be given
session of Congress, all of the commit-
of the vote will not be postponed.
ately after the approval of the Journal,
Discharge Committees other motions to
posed by the Senate to any measure re-
to omnibus bills containing bills or reso-
tees of the House are not called under
"(2) When the last of all motions on
any Member who has signed a motion to
discharge committees from the consider-
ported in disagreement between the two
lutions which have previously been ob-
the Calendar Wednesday rule, at the
that legislative day to suspend the Rules
discharge which has been on the calen-
ation of bills or resolutions substantially
Houses by a report of a committee of
jected to on a call of the Private Calen-
next session of Congress the call shall
and pass bills or resolutions has been
dar at least seven days prior thereto, and
the same, relating in substance to or
conference that the committee has been
dar. All bills and resolutions on the Pri-
commence where it left off at the end of
entertained and any debate thereon con-
seeks recognition, shall be recognized for
dealing with the same subject matter,
unable to agree, until the third calendar
vate Calendar called, if considered,
the preceding session.
cluded, with the question put and deter-
the purpose of calling up the motion, and
after the House shall have acted on one
day (excluding any Saturday, Sunday,
shall be considered in the House as in the
8. The second and fourth Mondays in
mined on each such motion on which
the House shall proceed to its considera-
motion to discharge, the remaining said
or legal holiday) after such report and
Committee of the Whole. Should objec-
each month, after the disposition of mo-
further proceedings were not postponed,
tion in the manner herein provided with-
motions shall be stricken from the Cal-
accompanying statement shall have been
tion be made by two or more Members to
tions to discharge committees and after
the Speaker shall put the question on
20
RULES OF THE
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
R 21
filed in the House, and such considera-
amendment to the provisions of that
(2) If such point of order is sustained,
(3) If such point of order is sustained,
6. Open Conference Meetings
Parliamentarian and former Parliamen-
tion then shall be in order only if such
measure as SO proposed in the form
it then shall be in order for the Chair to
it then shall be in order for the Chair to
Each conference committee meeting
tarians of the House, former elected offi-
report and accompanying statement
passed by the House;
entertain a motion, which is of high
entertain a motion, which is of high
between the House and Senate shall be
cers and former elected minority em-
shall have been printed in the daily
shall be considered in violation of such
privilege, that the House reject the non-
privilege, that the House reject the non-
open to the public except when the man-
ployees of the House (other than ex-
edition of the Congressional Record for
clause 7.
germane matter covered by the point of
germane matter covered by the point of
agers of either the House or Senate, in
Members) who are not interested in any
the day on which such report and state-
(b) If such point of order is sus-
order. It shall be in order to debate such
order. It shall be in order to debate such
open session, determine by a rollcall vote
claim or directly in any bill pending be-
ment shall have been filed; but the pre-
tained, it then shall be in order for the
motion for forty minutes, one-half of
motion for forty minutes, one-half of
of a majority of those managers present,
fore Congress, and clerks of committees
ceding provisions of this sentence do not
Chair to entertain a motion, which is of
such time to be given to debate in favor
such time to be given to debate in favor
that all or part of the remainder of the
when business from their committee is
apply during the last six days of the
high privilege, that the House reject the
of, and one-half in opposition to, the
of, and one-half in opposition to, the
meeting on the day of the vote shall be
under consideration; and it shall not be
session. Nor shall it be in order to con-
nongermane matter covered by the point
motion.
motion.
closed to the public: Provided, That this
in order for the Speaker to entertain a
sider any such amendment unless copies
of order. It shall be in order to debate
(3) Notwithstanding the final disposi-
(4) Notwithstanding the final dispo-
provision shall not become effective until
request for the suspension of this rule
of the report and accompanying state-
such motion for forty minutes, one-half
tion of any point of order made under
sition of any point of order under sub-
a similar rule is adopted by the Senate.
or to present from the chair the request
ment, together with the text of such
of such time to be given to debate in
subparagraph (1), or of any motion to
paragraph (2), or of any motion to re-
of any Member for unanimous consent.
amendment, are then available on the
favor of, and one-half in opposition to,
reject made pursuant to a point of order
ject made pursuant to a point of order
RULE XXIX
2. There shall be excluded at all times
floor. The time allotted for debate on any
the motion.
under subparagraph (2), of this para-
under subparagraph (3), of this para-
SECRET SESSION
from the Hall of the House of Represent-
such amendment shall be equally divided
(c) Notwithstanding the final dis-
graph, it shall be in order to make fur-
graph, it shall be in order to make fur-
Whenever confidential communica-
atives and the cloakrooms all persons not
between the majority party and the mi-
position of any point of order made under
ther points of order on the ground stated
ther points of order on the ground stated
tions are received from the President of
entitled to the privilege of the floor dur-
nority party.
paragraph (a), or of any motion to reject
in such subparagraph (1), and motions
in subparagraph (1) of paragraph (a)
the United States, or whenever the
ing the session, except that until fifteen
3. Whenever a disagreement to an
made pursuant to a point of order under
to reject pursuant thereto under such
of this clause, and motions to reject pur-
Speaker or any Member shall inform the
minutes of the hour of the meeting of the
amendment in the nature of a substitute
paragraph (b) of this clause, it shall be
subparagraph (2), with respect to other
suant thereto under subparagraph (3)
House that he has communications
House persons employed in its service,
has been committed to a conference com-
in order to make further points of order
nongermane matter in the amendment
of this paragraph, with respect to other
which he believes ought to be kept secret
accredited members of the press entitled
mittee it shall be in order for the Man-
on the ground stated in such paragraph
proposed by the Senate not covered by
nongermane matter in the language of
for the present, the House shall be
to admission to the press gallery, and
agers on the part of the House to propose
(a), and motions to reject pursuant
any previous point of order which has
the Senate amendment, as proposed to
cleared of all persons except the Mem-
other persons on request of Members, by
a substitute which is a germane modifi-
thereto under such paragraph (b), with
been sustained.
be amended by the motion described in
bers and officers thereof, and SO continue
card or in writing may be admitted.
cation of the matter in disagreement, but
respect to other nongermane matter in
(4) If any such motion to reject has
subparagraph (1) of this paragraph, not
during the reading of such communica-
RULE XXXIII
the introduction of any language in that
the report of the committee of confer-
been adopted, after final disposition of
covered by any previous point of order
tions, the debates and proceedings there-
substitute presenting a specific addi-
ence not covered by any previous point of
all points of order and motions to reject
which has been sustained.
on, unless otherwise ordered by the
OF ADMISSION TO THE GALLERIES
tional topic, question, issue, or proposi-
order which has been sustained.
under the preceding provisions of this
(5) If any such motion to reject has
House.
The Speaker shall set aside a portion
tion not committed to the conference
(d) If any such motion to reject has
clause, the motion to recede and concur
been adopted, after final disposition of
RULE XXX
of the west gallery for the use of the
committee by either House shall not
been adopted, after final disposition of
shall be considered as rejected, and fur-
all points of order and motions to reject
READING OF PAPERS
President of the United States, the mem-
constitute a germane modification of the
all points of order and motions to reject
ther motions—
under the preceding provisions of this
When the reading of a paper other
bers of his Cabinet, justices of the Su-
matter in disagreement. Moreover, their
under the preceding provisions of this
(A) to recede and concur in the
paragraph, the motion to recede and con-
report shall not include matter not com-
clause, the conference report shall be
Senate amendment with an amend-
cur in the Senate amendment with an
than one upon which the House is called
preme Court, foreign ministers and
ment, where appropriate (but the of-
to give a final vote is demanded, and the
suites, and the members of their respec-
mitted to the conference committee by
considered as rejected and the question
amendment shall be considered as re-
either House, nor shall their report in-
then pending before the House shall be-
fering of which is not in order unless
jected, and further motions-
same is objected to by any Member, it
tive families, and shall also set aside an-
clude a modification of any specific topic,
(1) whether to recede and concur
copies of the language of the Senate
(A) to recede and concur in the
shall be determined without debate by a
other portion of the same gallery for the
question, issue, or proposition committed
amendment, as proposed to be amend-
Senate amendment with an amend-
vote of the House.
accommodation of persons to be ad-
in the Senate amendment with an
mitted on the card of Members. The
to the conference committee by either or
amendment which shall consist of that
ed by such motion, are then available
ment, where appropriate (but the of-
RULE XXXI
southerly half of the east gallery shall
both Houses if that modification is be-
portion of the conference report not
on the floor when such motion is
fering of which is not in order unless
HALL OF THE HOUSE
be assigned exclusively for the use of the
yond the scope of that specific topic,
rejected; or
offered and is under consideration);
copies of the language of the Senate
(B) to insist upon disagreement to
amendment, as proposed to be amend-
The Hall of the House shall be used
families of Members of Congress, in
question, issue, or proposition as so com-
(2) if the last sentence of para-
mitted to the conference committee.
graph (a) of this clause applies,
the Senate amendment and request a
ed by such motion, are then available
only for the legislative business of the
which the Speaker shall control one
4. (a) With respect to any report of a
whether to insist further on the House
further conference with the Senate;
on the floor when such motion is of-
House and for the caucus meetings of its
bench, and on request of a Member the
and
Members, except upon occasions where
Speaker shall issue a card of admission
committee of conference called up before
amendment.
fered and is under consideration)
the House containing any matter which
If all such motions to reject are defeated,
(C) to insist upon disagreement to
(B) to insist upon disagreement to
the House by resolution agrees to take
to his family, which shall include their
would be in violation of the provisions of
then, after the allocation of time for
the Senate amendment;
the Senate amendment and request a
part in any ceremonies to be observed
visitors, and no other person shall be
clause 7 of Rule XVI if such matter had
debate on the conference report as pro-
shall remain of high privilege for con-
further conference with the Senate;
therein; and the Speaker shall not enter-
admitted to this section.
sideration by the House. If all such mo-
and
tain a motion for the suspension of this
RULE XXXIV
been offered as an amendment in the
vided in clause 2(a) of this Rule, it shall
tions to reject are defeated, then, after
(C) to insist upon disagreement to
rule.
House, and which-
be in order to move the previous question
OFFICIAL AND OTHER REPORTERS
(1) is contained in any Senate
on the adoption of the conference re-
the allocation of time for debate on the
the Senate amendment;
RULE XXXII
1. The appointment and removal, for
amendment to that measure (including
port.
motion to recede and concur as provided
shall remain of high privilege for con-
OF ADMISSION TO THE FLOOR
cause, of the official reporters of the
a substitute for the text of that meas-
5. (a) (1) With respect to any amend-
in clause 2(b) of this Rule, it shall be
sideration by the House. If all such mo-
1. The persons hereinafter named, and
House, including stenographers of com-
ure as passed by the House) accepted
ment (including an amendment in the
in order to move the previous question
tions to reject are defeated, then, after
none other, shall be admitted to the Hall
mittees, and the manner of the execution
by the House conferees or agreed to by
nature of a substitute) which-
on such motion.
the allocation of time for debate on the
of the House or rooms leading thereto,
of their duties shall be vested in the
the conference committee with modifi-
(A) is proposed by the Senate to
(b) (1) With respect to any such
motion to recede and concur in the Sen-
viz: The President and Vice President of
Speaker.
cation; or
any measure and thereafter-
amendment proposed by the Senate as
ate amendment with an amendment as
the United States and their private sec-
2. Such portion of the gallery over the
(2) is contained in any substitute
(i) is reported in disagreement
described in paragraph (a) of this clause,
provided in clause 2(b) of this Rule, it
retaries, judges of the Supreme Court,
Speaker's chair as may be necessary to
agreed to by the conference committee;
between the two Houses by a com-
it shall not be in order to offer any motion
shall be in order to move the previous
Members of Congress and Members-
accommodate representatives of the
it shall be in order, at any time after
mittee of conference; or
that the House recede from its disagree-
question on such motion.
elect, contestants in election cases during
press wishing to report debates and pro-
the reading of the report has been com-
ment to such Senate amendment and
(ii) is before the House, the stage
(c) If, on a division of a motion that
the pendency of their cases in the House,
ceedings shall be set aside for their use,
pleted or dispensed with and before the
concur therein with an amendment, un-
of disagreement having been
the House recede and concur, with or
the Secretary and Sergeants-at-Arms of
and reputable reporters and correspond-
reading of the statement, to make a
less copies of the language of the Senate
reached; and
without amendment, from its disagree-
the Senate, heads of departments, for-
ents shall be admitted thereto under
point of order that such nongermane
amendment, as proposed to be amended
(B) contains any matter which
ment to any such Senate amendment as
eign ministers, governors of States, the
such regulations as the Speaker may
matter, as described above, which shall
by such motion, are then available on
described in paragraph (a) (1) of this
Architect of the Capitol, the Librarian of
would be in violation of the provisions
from time to time prescribe; and the
the floor when such motion is offered
be specified in the point of order, is
clause, the House agrees to recede, then
Congress and his assistant in charge of
of clause 7 of Rule XVI if such matter
supervision of such gallery, including the
and is under consideration.
contained in the report.
before debate is commenced on concur-
the Law Library, the Resident Commis-
had been offered as an amendment in
designation of its employees, shall be
For the purposes of this clause, mat-
(2) Immediately after any such mo-
the House;
ring in such Senate amendment, or on
sioner to the United States from Puerto
vested in the standing committee of
tion is offered and is in order and before
ter which-
concurring therein with an amendment
Rico, each Delegate to the House, such
correspondents, subject to the direction
(A) is contained in any substitute
it shall be in order, immediately after a
debate is commenced on such motion, it
it shall be in order to make and dispose
persons as have, by name, received the
and control of the Speaker; and the
motion is offered that the House recede
agreed to by the conference commit-
shall be in order to make a point of order
of points of order and motions to reject
thanks of Congress, ex-Members of the
Speaker may assign one seat on the floor
tee;
from its disagreement to such amend-
that nongermane matter, as described in
with respect to such Senate amendment
House of Representatives who are not
to Associated Press reporters and one to
ment proposed by the Senate and con-
subparagraph (1) of paragraph (a) of
(B) is not proposed by the House
in accordance with applicable provisions
interested in any claim or directly in any
United Press International, and regulate
cur therein and before debate is com-
this clause, which shall be specified in
to be included in the measure con-
of this clause and to effect final deter-
bill pending before Congress, elected offi-
the occupation of the same. And the
menced on such motion, to make a point
the point of order, is contained in the
cerned as passed by the House; and
mination of these matters in accordance
cers and elected minority employees of
Speaker may admit to the floor, under
of order that such nongermane matter,
language of the Senate amendment, as
with such provisions.
(C) would be in violation of clause
the House (other than Members), the
such regulations as he may prescribe,
as described above, which shall be speci-
proposed to be amended by such motion,
7 of Rule XVI if such matter had
fied in the point of order, is contained in
copies of which are then available on the
been offered in the House as an
such amendment proposed by the Senate.
floor.
FORD
R 22
RULES OF THE
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
23
one additional representative of each
to transmit to the officer in charge with
2. A Member, officer, or employee of
later than April 30, 1969, and by April 30
ment) exceeding $1,000 in each instance.
2 and 3 of part A, and the amount of
press association.
the settlement thereof the papers on file
the House of Representatives shall ad-
of each year thereafter, file with the
(d) Honorariums from a single source
indebtedness owed to each creditor listed
3. Such portion of the gallery of the
in his office relating to such claim, or
here to the spirit and the letter of the
Committee on Standards of Official Con-
aggregating $300 or more.
under paragraph 4 of part A.
House of Representatives as may be nec-
may loan temporarily to an officer or
Rules of the House of Representatives
duct a report disclosing certain financial
4. List each creditor to whom the per-
The information filed under this part
essary to accommodate reporters of news
bureau of the executive departments any
and to the rules of duly constituted com-
interests as provided in this rule. The
son reporting was indebted for a period
B shall be sealed by the person filing and
to be disseminated by radio, television,
papers on file in his office relating to any
mittees thereof.
interest of a spouse or any other party,
of ninety consecutive days or more dur-
shall remain sealed unless the Commit-
and similar means of transmission, wish-
matter pending before such officer or
3. A Member, officer, or employee of
if constructively controlled by the person
ing the preceding calendar year in an
tee on Standards of Official Conduct,
ing to report debates and proceedings,
bureau, taking proper receipt therefor.
the House of Representatives shall re-
reporting, shall be considered to be the
aggregate amount in excess of $10,000,
pursuant to its investigative authority,
shall be set aside for their use, and rep-
ceive no compensation nor shall he per-
same as the interest of the person report-
RULE XXXVIII
excluding any indebtedness specifically
determines by a vote of not less than
utable reporters thus engaged shall be
mit any compensation to accrue to his
ing. The report shall be in two parts as
secured by the pledge of assets of the
seven members of the committee that the
admitted thereto under such regulations
BALLOT
beneficial interest from any source, the
follows:
person reporting of appropriate value.
examination of such information is es-
as the Speaker may from time to time
In all cases of ballot a majority of the
receipt of which would occur by virtue
PART A
Campaign receipts shall not be in-
sential in an official investigation by the
prescribe; and the supervision of such
votes given shall be necessary to an elec-
or influence improperly exerted from his
1. List the name, instrument of owner-
cluded in this report.
committee and promptly notifies the
gallery, including the designation of its
tion, and where there shall not be such
position in the Congress.
ship, and any position of management
Information filed under part A shall
Members concerned of any such determi-
employees, shall be vested in the Execu-
a majority on the first ballot the ballots
4. A Member, officer, or employee of
held in any business entity doing a sub-
be maintained by the committee on
nation. The committee may, by a vote
tive Committee of the Radio and Tele-
shall be repeated until a majority be ob-
the House of Representatives shall ac-
stantial business with the Federal Gov-
Standards of Official Conduct and made
of not less than seven members of the
vision Correspondents' Galleries, subject
tained; and in all balloting blanks shall
cept no gift of substantial value, directly
ernment or subject to Federal regulatory
available at reasonable hours to respon-
committee, make public any portion of
to the direction and control of the
be rejected and not taken into the count
or indirectly, from any person, organiza-
agencies, in which the ownership is in
sible public inquiry, subject to such reg-
the information unsealed by the commit-
Speaker; and the Speaker may admit to
in enumeration of votes or reported by
tion, or corporation having a direct in-
excess of $5,000 fair market value as of
ulations as the committee may prescribe
tee under the preceding sentence and
the floor, under such regulations as he
the tellers.
terest in legislation before the Congress.
the date of filing or from which income
including, but not limited to, regulations
which the committee deems to be in the
may prescribe, one representative of the
RULE XXXIX
5. A Member, officer, or employee of
or $1,000 or more was derived during the
requiring identification by name, occu-
public interest.
National Broadcasting Company, one
MESSAGES
the House of Representatives shall ac-
preceding calendar year. Do not list any
pation, address, and telephone number
Any person required to file a report
of the Columbia Broadcasting System,
Messages received from the Senate and
cept no honorarium for a speech, writing
time or demand deposit in a financial in-
of each person examining information
under this rule who has no interests
one of the Mutual Broadcasting System.
and one of the American Broadcasting
the President of the United States, giv-
for publication, or other similar activity,
stitution, or any debt instrument having
filed under part A, and the reason for
covered by any of the provisions of this
ing notice of bills passed or approved,
from any person, organization, or cor-
a fixed yield unless it is convertible to an
each such inquiry.
rule shall file a report, under part A only
Company.
shall be entered in the Journal and pub-
poration in excess of the usual and cus-
equity instrument.
The committee shall promptly notify
of this rule, as stating.
RULE XXXV
lished in the Record of that day's pro-
tomary value for such services.
2. List the name, address, and type of
each person required to file a report un-
In any case in which a person required
PAY OF WITNESSES
ceedings.
6. A Member of the House of Repre-
practice of any professional organization
der this rule of each instance of an ex-
to file a sealed report under part B of
The rule for paying witnesses sub-
RULE XL
entatives shall keep his campaign funds
in which the person reporting, or his
amination of his report. The committee
this rule is no longer required to file such
penaed to appear before the House or
separate from his personal funds. Unless
spouse, is an officer, director, or partner,
shall also promptly notify a Member of
a report, the committee shall return to
EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS
any of its committees shall be as fol-
specifically provided by law, he shall
or serves in any advisory capacity, from
each examination of the reports filed by
such person, or his legal representative,
Estimates, or appropriations and all
convert no campaign funds to personal
which income of $1,000 or more was de-
lows: For each day a witness shall at-
his principal assistants and of each ex-
all sealed reports filed by such person
other communications from the execu-
tend. the sum of twenty dollars; and
use in excess of reimbursement for legit-
rived during the preceding calendar year.
amination of the reports of professional
under part B and remaining in the pos-
actual expenses of travel in coming to or
tive departments, intended for the con-
imate and verifiable prior campaign ex-
3. List the source of each of the fol-
staff members of committees who are
session of the committee.
going from the place of examination.
sideration of any committees of the
penditures and he shall expend no funds
lowing items received during the preced-
responsible to such Member.
As used in this rule-(1) the term
not to exceed twelve cents per mile; but
House, shall be addressed to the Speaker,
from his campaign account not attribut-
ing calendar year: (a) Any income for
"Members" includes the Resident Com-
nothing shall be paid for travel when
and by him referred as provided by clause
able to bona fide campaign purposes.
services rendered (other than from the
PART B
missioner from Puerto Rico and each
7. A Member of the House of Repre-
1. List the fair market value (as of the
the witness has been summoned at the
2 of Rule XXIV.
United States Government) exceeding
Delegate to the House; and (2) the
place of examination.
RULE XLI
sentatives shall treat as campaign con-
$5,000. (b) Any capital gain from a
date of filing) of each item listed under
term "committees" includes any com-
tributions all proceeds from testimonial
single source exceeding $5,000, other
paragraph 1 of part A and the income
mittee or subcommittee of the House
RULE XXXVI
QUALIFICATIONS OF OFFICERS AND
dinners or other fund raising events if
than from the sale of a residence oc-
derived therefrom during the preceding
of Representatives and any joint com-
EMPLOYEES
PAPERS
the sponsors of such affairs do not give
cupied by the person reporting. (c)
calendar year.
mittee of Congress, the expenses of
1. The clerks of the several commit-
No person shall be an officer of the
clear notice in advance to the donors or
Reimbursement for expenditures (other
2. List the amount of income derived
which are paid from the contingent fund
tees of the House shall, within three
House, or continue in its employment,
participants that the proceeds are in-
than from the United States Govern-
from each item listed under paragraphs
of the House of Representatives.
days after the final adjournment of a
who shall be an agent for the prosecution
tended for other purposes.
Congress, deliver to the Clerk of the
of any claim against the Government, or
8. A Member of the House of Repre-
House all bills, joint resolutions, peti-
be interested in such claim otherwise
sentatives shall retain no one from his
tions, and other papers referred to the
than as an original claimant; and it shall
clerk hire allowance who does not per-
committee, together with all evidence
be the duty of the Committee on House
form duties commensurate with the
taken by such committee under the order
Administration to inquire into and report
compensation he receives.
of the House during the said Congress
to the House any violation of this rule.
As used in this Code of Official Con-
and not reported to the House; and in
RULE XLII
duct of the House of Representatives-
the event of the failure or neglect of any
(a) the terms "Member" and "Member
clerk of a committee to comply with this
GENERAL PROVISIONS
of the House of Representatives" in-
rule the Clerk of the House shall, within
The rules of parliamentary practice
clude the Resident Commissioner from
three days thereafter. take into his keep-
comprised in Jefferson's Manual and the
Puerto Rico and each Delegate to the
ing all such papers and testimony.
provisions of the Legislative Reorganiza-
House and (b) the term "officer or em-
2. At the close of each Congress the
tion Act of 1946, as amended, shall gov-
ployee of the House of Representatives"
Clerk of the House shall obtain all non-
ern the House in all cases to which they
means any individual whose compensa-
current records of the House and each
are applicable, and in which they are
tion is disbursed by the Clerk of the
committee thereof and transfer them to
not inconsistent with the standing rules
House of Representatives.
the General Services Administration for
and orders of the House and joint rules
preservation subject to the order of the
of the Senate and House of Representa-
9. A Member, officer or employee of
the House of Representatives shall not
House. In making the transfer, the Clerk
tives.
discharge or refuse to hire any individ-
may act jointly with the Secretary of the
RULE XLIII
Senate.
ual or otherwise discriminate against
CODE OF OFFICIAL CONDUCT
any individual with respect to compen-
RULE XXXVII
There is hereby established by and for
sation, terms, conditions, or privileges
WITHDRAWAL OF PAPERS
the House of Representatives the fol-
of employment, because of such individ-
No memorial or other paper presented
lowing code of conduct, to be known as
ual's race, color, religion, sex, or national
to the House shall be withdrawn from
the "Code of Official Conduct";
origin.
its files without its leave, and if with-
1. A Member, officer, or employee of
RULE XLIV
drawn therefrom certified copies thereof
the House of Representatives shall con-
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
shall be left in the office of the Clerk;
duct himself at all times in a manner
but when an act may pass for the settle-
Members, officers, principal assistants
which shall reflect creditably on the
to Members and officers, and professional
ment of a claim, the Clerk is authorized
House of Representatives.
staff members of committees shall not
FEB 1
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Mr
February 10, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JACK MARSH
PHILIP BUCHEN
DON RUMSFELD
MAX FRIEDERSDORF
THRU:
VERN LOEN VL
FROM:
CHARLES LEPPERT, JR. Lgr.
SUBJECT:
Rules of the House of Representatives
Attached for your information is a copy of the Rules of the House of Repre-
sentatives, First Session, 94th Congress.
It may be a month before the bound annotated editions are available.
cc: Doug Bennett
Bob Wolthuis
BERALD LIBRARY
Cong
December 9, 1976
MENORANDUM FOR:
CHARLIE LEFFERT
FROM:
JACK MARSH
One of the actions taken in the Democratic Caucus
yesterday was the adoption of a procedure whereby
any closed Committee or Subcommittee hearing would
be open to any Member of the House.
I would appreciate your checking this out discreetly
in order to ascertain more fully just what the scope
and extent of this new procedure would be. I would
be interested in just how it would impact on matters
that relate to sensitive Defense, foreign policy,
and intelligence questions.
Many thanks.
CC: Max Friedersdorf
I
JOM/dl
FORD is LIBRARY GERALD
DEC 11 1976
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
December 10, 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JACK MARSH
FROM:
CHARLES LEPPERT, JR.
SUBJECT:
Amendment to House Rules
The House Democratic Caucus yesterday on the motion of
Rep. Tom Downey (D.-N.Y.) adopted a proposed amendment
to the Rules of the U. S. House of Representatives which
permits a Member of Congress to attend "any hearing" of
any Committee or Subcommittee, with one exception, of the
House unless the House by a majority vote authorizes the
Committee or Subcommittee to close the "meeting" to
Members in accordance with the procedure under the rules
to close Committee meetings (see language attached).
I discussed this matter with the House Parliamentarian.
He advises that even they are trying to digest the pro-
posed rules changes being adopted by the Democratic Caucus
to determine their meaning and how they are to be imple-
mented.
The language attached is a proposed amendment to Rule 11,
Clause 2(g). Note that under this language a Member can
attend "any hearing" of a Committee or Subcommittee unless
closed by a majority vote of the House. Question: Whether
this applies to a Committee of Conference or mark-up ses-
sion of the Committee or Subcommittee. On the question of
how it applies to sensitive matters of defense, foreign
policy or intelligence, the Parliamentarian stated that
under this language a Member of the House of Representa-
tives could not be excluded unless the Committee or Subcom-
mittee Chairman obtained a majority vote of the House to
exclude "non-participatory attendance" of a Member at "any
hearing".
Memorandum for Jack March
December 10, 1976
Please note that the attached language is inconsistent
in the first part which refers to "any hearing" but in
the later phrases refers to "hearings, articles of
legislation, investigation and meetings."
Jack, I am attempting to obtain a complete text of all
proposed amendments to the House Rules, if possible. It
should be kept in mind that these proposed rules changes
must be adopted by the full House of Representatives in
January. In view of the Democrat majority, it appears
unlikely that any attempt to defeat or change the proposed
amendments adopted by the Democrat caucus will succeed.
No Member may be excluded from non-participatory
attendance at any hearing of any Committee or Subcom-
mittee, with the exception of the Committee on Standards
of Official Conduct, unless the House of Representatives
which by majority vote authorize a particular Committee
or Subcommittee, for purposes of a particular series of
hearings on a particular article of legislation or on a
particular subject of investigation, to close its meetings
to Members by the same procedures deisgnated in this
subparagraph for closing meetings to the public.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
December 13, 1976
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JACK MARSH
FROM:
CHARLES LEPPERT, JR.
CLg.
SUBJECT:
House Rules
Attached is a chronological listing of House Rules
changes considered by the Democratic Caucus. The listing
is by no means complete because of action in the Caucus
to proposed amendments.
I am told that the Democrat Caucus or the Democrat Study
Group is going to print the rules changes adopted by the
Caucus and send them to the Democrat Members prior to the
opening of the 95th Congress.
considered
HOUSE RULES CHANGES ADOPTED BY THE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS
(December 8, 1976)
1. Suspensions every Monday (Obey) .
2. Allows cluster voting on "noncontroversial" Rule
resolutions (Obey) .
3. Ten Members required to object to Committee sitting under
5-minute Rule (Obey) .
4. Changes number required to demand recorded vote in Committee
of the Whole from 20 to 33 (Obey, DEFEATED ON DIVISION)
5. Requires request for recorded vote in House to be supported
by one-fifth of Members present (Smith of Iowa, DEFEATED
ON GROUNDS THAT IT WOULD TAKE TOO MUCH TIME TO COUNT IF A
LOT OF MEMBERS WERE ON THE FLOOR).
6. Requires Speaker to give "every consideration" in naming
conferees to Members principally responsible for the
measure, including the sponsors of major amendments (Smith
of Iowa).
7. Removes unanimous consent requirement for dispensing with
the third reading of budget resolutions at the end of
general debate (Smith of Iowa).
8. Authorizes two staff members of each Committee to be paid
at Level IV (Shipley) -
9. Guaranteed reporting of foreign travel - voucher must go
through House Administration Committee (Thompson).
10. Alphabetized listing of Committee employees to be printed
quarterly in the Record (Thompson)
1080
- 2 -
11. Select Committees, etc., must meet same funding require-
ments (e.g., resolutions) unless funding otherwise
stipulated by enabling statute (Thompson).
12. With exception of resolution on Code of Conduct, legis-
lative authority of Ethics Committee transferred to House
Judiciary Committee (Maguire).
13. Allows: Speaker to make sequential referrals, but imposes
time limits on each Committee including the first Committee
to which the bill is referred (Meads).
14. Members authorized one staff member on Floor when offering
an amendment (Ottinger, PASSED ON DIVISION).
15. Ethics Committee may sit during 5-minute Rule (Flynt).
16. Certain records of Ethics Committee pertaining to
unsubstantiated allegations, etc., may only be seen by
Members and staff of the Ethics Committee (Flynt).
17. Allows appointment of another Member to Ethics Committee
on an issue where a sitting Member has disqualified
himself (due to partiality, etc.) to preserve the Party
ratio (Flynt).
18. Allows expenses of the Ethics Committee to be paid from
the Contingency Fund of the House (Flynt, DEFEATED BY
VOICE).
19. Repeals clause 10 of Rule 43 (Patterson, ADOPTED, THEN
VACATED).
20. Clarifies subpena power of Committees and Subcommittees
(Brooks).
- 3 -
21. Requires open conferences unless closed by vote of the
House (Carr) .
22. Committee Members allowed access to all Subcommittees
(unclear - but at least with respect to Committees on
which they sit) (Downey). .
23. One-third Committee Members constitute a quorum for mark-up,
but majority still must report legislation (Harris).
24. Eliminates legislative jurisdiction of Joint Committee on
Atomic Energy (but allocation of jurisdiction to Standing
Committees unclear) (Bingham) .
25. Refer Joint Committee on Atomic Energy jurisdiction to
Committee on Organization and Review for allocation to
Standing Committees (Brown, DEFEATED).
FOND
LIBRARY