Bill > HR4712

This resolution allows the House of Representatives to continue its work between legislative sessions, known as the "interim." The Executive Rules Committee is empowered to assign topics and bills to House committees for study, and the Speaker can create special committees, with approval from the Executive Rules Committee, to handle these interim tasks. The Executive Rules Committee must also approve the schedules, locations, and formats of all legislative task force and committee meetings, and these groups can conduct work sessions and public hearings even without a quorum present, with members participating remotely being counted for quorum and voting purposes. Authorized committees can also be granted subpoena power, the ability to administer oaths, and issue commissions for witness examinations if specifically authorized by the Executive Rules Committee. The Chief Clerk of the House is tasked with completing the work of the regular session, including editing and publishing the House journal, approving member expenses for official business at established per diem and mileage rates, hiring necessary staff, ordering supplies, and accepting various legislative documents. The Chief Clerk also has authority over personal services contracts, particularly for workplace investigations, and must notify the Executive Rules Committee of other contracts requiring House appropriations. Additionally, the Chief Clerk will process vouchers for all legislative expenses, reimburse members and employees for authorized conference and meeting expenses, and manage the use of House facilities. Finally, the Chief Clerk is authorized to send expressions of sympathy on behalf of the House.