On the recordNovember 4, 2015
During his first speech, our new Speaker made a commitment to return the U.S. House of Representatives to regular order. What does that mean? Think ``Schoolhouse Rock,'' an orderly process where bills are introduced, debated in a bipartisan committee process, amendments are allowed, and legislation is actually brought up for a vote. I could not agree with the Speaker more. This Congress, this country would benefit from a more open debate, where voices from both parties are heard, where every Member is empowered to fully be a part of the legislative process, to do the work that they were sent here to do on behalf of the people they work for. I know I have introduced many bills that have not been brought up in committee, have never seen the light of day on the floor, and I know other Members share that frustration. That needs to end. We need to have a more open process. Just last week, 313 Members of this body voted to reauthorize the Export-Import Bank. Almost every Democrat and a majority of Republicans came together, and the legislative process worked. Mr. Speaker, I do call on you to continue to keep that promise. Keep this an open process. This is what the Framers imagined, and it is what the American people expect. ____________________
