Bill 119 hjres 4, also known as the proposed amendment to the Constitution of the United States, aims to change the rules regarding the closure of debate on legislation in the Senate. Currently, the Senate can end debate on a bill with a simple majority vote, known as invoking cloture. This bill seeks to require a minimum of three-fifths of Senators, or 60 out of 100, to agree to end debate on legislation.
The purpose of this proposed amendment is to potentially reduce the ability of a minority of Senators to block or delay legislation by filibustering, a tactic where Senators can prolong debate indefinitely to prevent a vote on a bill. By requiring a larger majority to end debate, supporters of the bill argue that it could promote more bipartisan cooperation and compromise in the legislative process.
If this proposed amendment were to be ratified, it would fundamentally change the Senate's rules and procedures for ending debate on legislation. It would likely lead to more deliberation and negotiation among Senators before a final vote on a bill could take place. However, opponents of the bill may argue that it could limit the ability of minority voices to be heard and potentially hinder the legislative process.
Overall, Bill 119 hjres 4 proposes a significant change to the Senate's rules on ending debate, with potential implications for how legislation is considered and passed in the future.