Bill 119 H.Res. 23, also known as the Proxy Voting for New Parents Resolution, was introduced in the US Congress to allow members of the House of Representatives who are new parents to designate a proxy to vote on their behalf. This resolution aims to provide support for new parents in Congress by allowing them to take time off to care for their newborn child without missing important votes on legislation.
The resolution outlines the process for new parents to designate a proxy, who must be a member of the same political party as the absent member. The proxy would be required to vote in accordance with the absent member's instructions and would not be allowed to cast a vote on their own behalf.
Supporters of the resolution argue that it is important to provide accommodations for new parents in Congress so that they can balance their responsibilities as lawmakers with their responsibilities as parents. They believe that allowing proxy voting for new parents will ensure that their constituents are still represented in important legislative decisions.
Opponents of the resolution raise concerns about the potential for abuse of proxy voting and argue that members of Congress should be present to vote on legislation themselves. They also question the constitutionality of allowing proxy voting in Congress.
Overall, the Proxy Voting for New Parents Resolution is a controversial issue that highlights the challenges faced by new parents in Congress and the need for accommodations to support their dual roles as lawmakers and parents.