Johanns Introduces Legislation to Increase Senate Transparency

Press Release

Senator Mike Johanns today joined 21 of his colleagues in introducing legislation that would increase transparency in the legislative process. The initiative would change Senate rules to require all legislative matters be made publicly available for 72 hours prior to being considered on the Senate floor or in committee. In addition, the cost of the legislation would also need to be posted on the Congressional Budget Office's website 72 hours prior to it being considered.

"Voters rightly expect their elected officials to actually read the legislation and know its costs so that they make well-thought out decisions," Johanns said. "It's my duty to Nebraskans to carefully consider legislation before I vote, particularly when it directly impacts their lives. The current practice of unveiling a 1,000-plus page bill before dawn and voting on it the same day is a disservice to all Americans."

Senator Johanns joined some of the legislation's cosponsors in a press conference this morning to discuss the 72 Hour Transparency Act. Video of Johanns' remarks can be found here.

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