Dreier, Frost Propose Bipartisan, Bicameral
Approach to Continuity Issues

June 4, 2003

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman David Dreier (R-CA), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, was joined today by Rules Committee Ranking Member Martin Frost (D-TX) in testifying before the Subcommittee on Technology and the House, chaired by Congressman John Linder (R-GA) on their proposal to create a bipartisan, bicameral committee to address continuity of government issues. Dreier and Frost are original co-sponsors of H.Con.Res. 190, a concurrent resolution that would create a Joint Committee on Joint Rules to examine House rules, Senate rules joint rules and other matters assuring continuing representation and congressional operations for the American people.

"Only a few times in the past have the House and Senate established bipartisan, bicameral panels to review the structure and functioning of the Congress," Dreier said. "Today's hearing is an important step forward because it begins the process for fulfilling one of our most important duties: assuring continuing representation and operations for the American people during times of crisis."

Dreier noted in his testimony that under the leadership of Speaker J. Dennis Hastert, the Congress had taken appropriate steps in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. The creation of the Department of Homeland Security, along with a Select Committee to oversee its formation, was a significant step in adapting to new realities. He also pointed to House action on questions such as Speaker succession and alternative meeting sites for Congress as critical actions. He expressed his hope that the new Joint Committee on Joint Rules would expand on these developments and provide the most efficient and effective way of determining what other challenges may face the Congress in the event of another catastrophe.

Specifically, the Concurrent Resolution establishes a committee of 20 members, equally divided by chamber and party. The Speaker and Senate Majority Leader would appoint the co-chairmen of the joint committee, as well as other members (after consultation with the respective minority leaders). The joint committee would issue an interim report by January 31, 2004 and a final report by May 31, 2004.

"Passage of this resolution would inaugurate a special joint committee study of ways to ensure the structures, procedures, and lines of communications between the two chambers are effectively organized and coordinated so the legislative branch can fulfill its constitutional duties during times of crisis," Dreier said.

Dreier also thanked Subcommittee Chairman John Linder (R-GA) for holding today's hearing.