RepublicanBill · H.J.Res. 4· House(119-HJRES-4)

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to provide that debate upon legislation pending before the Senate may not be brought to a close without the concurrence of a minimum of three-fifths of the Senators.

Rep. Fitzpatrick
Age: 53 years
Pennsylvania
Introduced
1/3/2025
Last activity
1/3/2025 — Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
Sponsored by
Brian Fitzpatrick
Cosponsors
Republican - 1Democrat - 3
Congress
  1. Introduced
  2. In Committee

What this bill would do

This joint resolution proposes an amendment to the Constitution of the United States. It aims to change how the Senate handles debate on pending legislation. Under this proposal, debate on a measure or motion cannot be closed without specific requirements. These requirements include laws in effect on January 3, 2025, unanimous consent, or the agreement of at least three-fifths of the Senators. This rule would not apply to Presidential nominations.

Yes

  • Does this make what the government does easier for the public to see?+2

    The requirement for a three-fifths majority may ensure more prolonged debate and visible discussion on pending legislation.

The opposite

  • Does this give the federal government more power?-2

    The bill centralizes power by making it harder for a simple majority to pass legislation through the closure of debate.