HRES-1206-119
Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
Sponsored by Sanford Bishop (D-GA)
What it does
This resolution expresses the House of Representatives' sorrow over the death of Representative David Scott of Georgia. It directs the Clerk of the House to communicate the resolution to the Senate and send a copy to the Scott family. It also directs the House to adjourn on the day of passage as a further mark of respect.
Who benefits
The family of the late Representative David Scott, who receives formal acknowledgment of his service and the House's condolences. Constituents of Georgia's 13th Congressional District who are recognized through the honoring of their representative. Members of the House who participate in a formal expression of institutional mourning.
Who is hurt
No group is materially harmed by this resolution. The adjournment of the House for the day may marginally delay other legislative business, which could affect any parties awaiting floor action on pending legislation.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that honoring deceased Members of Congress is a longstanding institutional tradition that affirms the dignity of public service and provides formal recognition to the families of those who dedicated their careers to representing their constituents. They contend that such resolutions reflect the House's respect for its own members and the democratic process they embodied.
Opponents argue
Opponents argue that adjourning the full House for the day, even briefly, consumes limited legislative floor time that could be used to advance pending legislation. They contend that while the sentiment is appropriate, the procedural mechanism of a full-chamber adjournment may be a disproportionate use of collective legislative time for what is ultimately a ceremonial act.
Constitutional context
No significant constitutional issues are raised by this resolution. The House has broad authority under Article I, Section 5 to determine its own rules of proceeding, which includes the power to adjourn and to pass resolutions expressing the sense of the chamber.
Checks and balances
The House retains full authority over this resolution; no executive or judicial branch involvement is required or implicated, and no branch gains or loses power as a result.
Historical precedent
The House has passed memorial resolutions for deceased Members of Congress throughout its history; this follows a well-established institutional practice dating to the earliest Congresses.