One Subject at a Time Act

One Subject at a Time Act

This bill requires each bill or joint resolution to include no more than one subject and the subject to be clearly and descriptively expressed in the measure's title.

An appropriations bill may not contain any general legislation or change to existing law that is not germane to the subject of such bill.

The bill voids measures or provisions noncompliant with these requirements, including appropriation provisions outside the relevant subcommittee's jurisdiction. Additionally, a person (individual or entity) who is aggrieved by the enforcement, or the attempted enforcement, of a law that passed without complying with this bill's requirements may sue the United States for appropriate relief.

Bill 118 s 287, also known as the One Subject at a Time Act, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to ensure that all legislation introduced in Congress focuses on one subject at a time, rather than combining multiple unrelated issues into one bill.

The bill aims to promote transparency and accountability in the legislative process by making it easier for lawmakers and the public to understand and evaluate the content of proposed legislation. By requiring that each bill address only one subject, the One Subject at a Time Act seeks to prevent the practice of "logrolling," where unrelated provisions are bundled together in order to secure enough votes for passage.

Supporters of the bill argue that it will lead to more focused and effective legislation, as lawmakers will be forced to consider each issue on its own merits rather than using unrelated provisions as bargaining chips. They also believe that the bill will help to reduce the size and complexity of legislation, making it easier for the public to engage with the legislative process. Opponents of the bill, however, argue that it could hinder the ability of lawmakers to address complex and interconnected issues that may require a more comprehensive approach. They also raise concerns about the potential for increased gridlock in Congress if each issue must be addressed separately, rather than being bundled together for efficiency. Overall, the One Subject at a Time Act is a proposed piece of legislation that aims to promote transparency and accountability in the legislative process by requiring that each bill address only one subject at a time. Supporters believe that it will lead to more focused and effective legislation, while opponents raise concerns about potential drawbacks.