Chapter 5: The Organization of Congress

Rules for Lawmaking

“Each House may determine the Rules of its Proceedings.” (Art. 1 Section V)

Complex RulesPrecedents serve as a guide to conducting

business.House rules structured to move legislation

quickly once it reaches the floor. Strong HR leaders

Rules of Lawmaking

Committee WorkHouse committee work is more important

than in the Senate.Committees study and shape billsMake work more efficient.

Party AffiliationMajority party selects leadersControls flow of legislative workAppoints committee chairs

House Leadership Speaker of the House (Art. 1 Sec. II)

Presiding officer Chosen by majority party

○ Approved by entire HouseStrong power in House

○ Influence proceedings○ Appoints some committee

members○ Schedules bills for action○ *Third in line of presidential

succession.

House Floor Leaders Majority Leader

Elected by majority partyHelps plan legislative programsHelps steer important bills

Minority LeaderElected by minority partyAttempts to direct minority votes

WhipsAssistant floor leadersPersuade members to vote with party

Lawmaking in the House

Day-to-DayMost work done from Tues-Thurs

Scheduling BillsBill is introduced (by any member) Speaker sends bill to committee

○ Only 10-20% go to the full House for a voteThen put on House calendars

○ Calendars: list bills up for consideration.○ Union, House, Private, Consent, Discharge.

House Rules Committee

“Traffic Officer” in the houseOne of the oldest house committeesDirects the flow of legislationCan hold bills, stop bills, or send bills ahead.Major bills reach floor by “rule” (special

order) of Rules CommitteeRules Committee settles disputes between

other House Committees.

Quorum

Quorum: the minimum number of members who must be present to permit a legislative body to take official action.

In regular session, a quorum is 218 members.

Committee of the Whole100 members constitutes a quorumThis committee can’t pass bills, but reports

back to full House.