GOP Sets New Rules for House

Attendance records, amendment texts, vote results to go online
By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff
Posted Dec 22, 2010 12:50 PM CST
GOP Sets New Rules for House
In this Thursday, Nov. 18, 2010 file picture, Rep.-elect, Tim Scott, R-S.C., left, leads following a Republican news conference on Capitol Hill in Washington.   (AP Photo/Harry Hamburg)

Republicans are taking over the House, and they’re bringing a list of new rules with them. Some key changes, set for adoption Jan. 5, from Politico:

  • Raising the US debt ceiling will now require a direct vote, something House members had, in the past, been able to avoid.
  • Committees must put attendance records online.
  • Lawmakers who have become lobbyists won’t be allowed to use the House gym—and try to bend ears while working out.

  • Chairmen must distribute a bill’s text 24 hours before it’s considered; the text of amendments and vote results must be posted online; and markups will require three days’ notice.
  • ”CUT/GO” rules will require that boosts in mandatory spending—automatic Social Security and Medicare funding, for example—are accompanied by cuts elsewhere.
  • House committee chairmen will be limited to three two-year terms.
(More House Republicans stories.)

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