"More Than Just Musing" #9

"REGULAR ORDER," WHAT IS IT AND WHY IT IS IMPORTANT?

Senator John McCain's advocacy for the return of "regular order" is a plea by all advocates of good government. When our representatives in Washington begin discussions on solving a problem or correcting an imbalance or initiating a new opportunity for the people, the seeds might come from our representative's initiative, a citizens group, or a lobbyist. It matters not. What matters is that these ideas are given the opportunity to sprout and bloom on their ability to withstand the virulent congressional environment - time, place, and mood. These ideas begin their life in proposals at the openings of congressional sessions. They then submit themselves to examination and inspection by staff researchers and in committee hearings. Meanwhile the lobbyists of all colors and stripes weigh in. (They must however have their pockets turned inside out. See Campaign Finance Section.) The ideas reap the benefits of light, water, supporting stakes, fertilizer, pesticide, and pruning. If they get out of committee or committees, they move on to the full chamber and are subjected to more of the same before a final vote. The result becomes law only if it meets the approval of the President or is overridden by veto with a 2/3 majority; however, it will only remain law if it survives any legal challenges before the Supreme Court.

WHAT DOES THE ABSENCE OF "REGULAR ORDER" REALLY DO?

It places almost absolute power in the hands of the tribal leaders, Democrat or Republican.

The likelihood of legislation being introduced is diminished if is known that the tribal leader will never bring it to the floor.

The likelihood of an idea getting a committee hearing is diminished because the committee chairpersons are appointed by the tribal leader.

The likelihood of an idea being poisoned so it will never get out of committee is enhanced.

WHAT DOES" REGULAR ORDER" REALLY DO?

It gives ideas a fresh opportunity at life and attaches names to the pro and con of these ideas.

It forces the problems and unintended consequences to surface.

It encourages, if not forces, compromise and discourages tribalism.

It enhances transparency.

It reveals the names of those who support or oppose the legislative results.

DO WE WANT TO CONTINUE THE TRIBALISM OR DO WE WANT "REGULAR ORDER"?

Support the 28th Amendment.

Contact: Jim Hamm at... 1776 yourunclesam@gmail.com

Contact your Representative-- House.gov-- Senate.Gov ......Proposed 28 Ademendent

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