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Joint Committee to Notify President

Full Title:
Authorizing the Speaker to appoint a committee to notify the President of the assembly of the Congress.

Summary#

This simple House resolution sets up a small committee to carry out a routine task at the start of a new Congress. It lets the Speaker name two House members to join a Senate committee and tell the President that Congress has officially gathered and is ready to receive messages.

  • Authorizes the Speaker to appoint two House members to a joint committee.
  • The joint committee formally notifies the President that a quorum (enough members to do business) is present in both chambers.
  • Signals that Congress is open for business and ready to receive communications from the White House.
  • Makes no changes to laws, programs, taxes, or rights; it is a ceremonial and procedural step.

What it means for you#

  • For most people: No direct effect on daily life, services, or taxes.
  • For people following government news: Confirms Congress has started its new session and is ready to work with the President.
  • For federal agencies and the White House: Provides a formal notice so official messages, nominations, and updates can be sent to Congress.

Expenses#

Estimated cost: none or negligible.

  • No new programs or spending.
  • Only minimal staff time to organize the committee and deliver the notice.

Proponents' View#

  • Ensures a smooth, orderly start to the new Congress.
  • Confirms that enough members are present so Congress can legally do business.
  • Opens the formal line of communication between Congress and the President.
  • Standard, non-controversial practice used at the beginning of each Congress.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.