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Legislative Proxy and Absence Accommodation Resolution
1/31/2025, 2:25 PM
Summary of Bill HCONRES 5
The bill outlines the specific conditions under which a Member of Congress may designate another Member to cast a vote on their behalf. It also establishes procedures for remote participation in committee proceedings, ensuring that Members can fulfill their duties even when unable to physically be present in Congress.
The goal of this legislation is to ensure that Congress can continue to function effectively and efficiently, even in the face of unexpected events that may prevent Members from being physically present. By allowing for proxy voting and remote attendance, the bill aims to maintain the integrity of the legislative process and uphold the responsibilities of Members of Congress to represent their constituents. Overall, Bill 119 hconres 5 seeks to provide a framework for addressing unforeseen circumstances that may impact the ability of Members of Congress to fulfill their duties, while also ensuring transparency and accountability in the decision-making process.
Congressional Summary of HCONRES 5
Legislative Proxy and Absence Accommodation Resolution
This concurrent resolution authorizes proxy voting and remote appearances by Members of Congress who are absent due to an illness, military service, jury duty, or other circumstances.
The concurrent resolution establishes grounds and procedures by which an absent Member of the House of Representatives or the Senate may (1) designate another Member to cast a vote or record the presence of the absent Member; and (2) remotely appear at a committee proceeding.
The concurrent resolution authorizes proxy voting and remote appearances for absences due to
- jury duty;
- the death of a family member;
- a family member who has a serious health condition;
- the Member's own illness or serious health condition;
- the birth, adoption, or foster placement of a son or daughter;
- the Member is serving in the armed services;
- a family member being called to active duty; or
- a condition preventing the Member from safely traveling to or performing work at the proceeding.
Certain purposes are time-limited; for example, an absence due to a Member's own illness is limited to seven days in a calendar year.
Further, a Member must provide to the Clerk of the House or the Secretary of the Senate, respectively (1) a written proxy designation or notice of remote appearance, (2) the grounds for the absence, and (3) such documentation as they may require. The Clerk and Secretary must maintain and make publicly available a list of the grounds, time frames, and other details about Members using these provisions.
