Jenkins Introduces Resolution To Increase Transparency In Congressional Committees

Press Release

Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins today introduced a resolution to change House rules and require committees to post the actual text of adopted bills and amendments online within 24-hours.

"The federal government functions best when it governs in the light of day. Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi's pledge for an open and transparent Congress has fallen short, failing to require transparency for one of the most powerful components of Congress -- congressional committees," Jenkins said. "Over the past nine months, major pieces of legislation have repeatedly been drafted, filed and then changed in the dark of night or behind closed-doors. It happened with the so-called stimulus, with the cap and trade national energy tax, and it happened with the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee's health care legislation."

Jenkins continued, "This is only my first year in Washington, but if this is "business as usual," then it's time for business to change. Committees should post legislation online within 24-hours to give all members of Congress as well as the American people time to read and understand the legislation. The status quo of secrecy and back-door deals has worn out its welcome. I am hopeful Speaker Pelosi will follow through on her promise of accountability and transparency by allowing a vote on this resolution."

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