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Establishing the Select Committee on Electoral Reform.
2/4/2025, 2:20 PM
Summary of Bill HRES 20
The bill outlines the composition of the committee, which would consist of members from both the House of Representatives and the Senate, with an equal number of Democrats and Republicans. The committee would be responsible for holding hearings, conducting research, and drafting reports on potential reforms to improve the integrity and fairness of the electoral system.
The establishment of this select committee is seen as a response to growing concerns about the state of American democracy, including allegations of voter suppression, gerrymandering, and foreign interference in elections. By bringing together lawmakers from both parties to study these issues and propose solutions, the committee aims to promote bipartisan cooperation and restore public trust in the electoral process. Overall, Bill 119 HRES 20 seeks to address the challenges facing the US electoral system and promote transparency, fairness, and accountability in elections. If passed, the establishment of the Select Committee on Electoral Reform could have a significant impact on the future of American democracy.
Congressional Summary of HRES 20
This resolution establishes the House Select Committee on Electoral Reform to examine current methods of electing Members of Congress, consider alternative methods of election, and report appropriate recommendations to Congress and the President.
Specifically, the committee must (1) determine how alternative methods of election would affect the responsiveness, accountability, and functionality of Congress; (2) conduct hearings to take testimony and receive evidence from appropriate expert witnesses; and (3) examine federal barriers to state experimentation with alternative electoral systems. The committee must consider alternatives to current methods that include adopting multi-member congressional districts with proportional representation; adjusting the total number of Members of the House of Representatives; adopting alternative methods of voting (e.g., ranked-choice voting); and holding open and nonpartisan primaries.
The committee shall be made up of 14 Members of Congress appointed by the Speaker of the House, 7 of whom shall be appointed in consultation with the minority leader. The committee's co-chairs shall be designated by the Speaker and minority leader, respectively. The resolution provides that the committee must hold its first meeting within 30 days after all of its members have been appointed.
The committee shall issue its final report to Congress and the President within one year after the committee's first meeting.
