Mandatory Senate Work During Shutdown: New Attendance and Quorum Rules
This resolution establishes strict procedural rules for the U.S. Senate to follow during a full or partial government shutdown. It mandates that Senators convene daily at 8:00 a.m. and undergo frequent roll calls to ensure attendance. The goal is to increase pressure on lawmakers to quickly resolve the budget crisis, thereby minimizing prolonged disruptions to public services that affect citizens.
Key points
Senators must convene every day at 8:00 a.m. during a government shutdown, with no exceptions or changes allowed by unanimous consent.
Mandatory, frequent roll calls are required to ascertain a quorum; absent Senators can be compelled or even arrested by the Sergeant at Arms.
Motions to adjourn or recess require a roll-call vote and a two-thirds majority of those present, making it harder for the Senate to stop working.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_SRES_364
Sponsor: Sen. Bennet, Michael F. [D-CO]
Process start date: 2023-09-26