COVID-19 has had an impact on almost every facet of American life. Congress has not been spared. Largely because the risk of transmission of the disease is highest in concentrated groups, there have been calls to alter the internal operation of the two chambers to introduce “social distancing” into the legislative process. One high-profile suggestion—intended … Read more
From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Privilege / Privileged Questions / Question of Privilege Privilege relates to the rights of members of Congress and to relative priority of the motions and actions they may make in their respective chambers. The two are distinct. “Privileged questions” deal with legislative business. “Questions of … Read more
From the Congressional Glossary – Including Legislative and Budget Terms Immunity (1) The constitutional privilege of members of Congress (Article. I. Section. 6.) to make verbal statements on the floor and in committee for which they cannot be sued or arrested for slander or libel. Also, freedom from arrest while traveling to or from sessions … Read more
The United States Constitution Article. I. (The Legislative Branch) Section. 6. (Compensation) The Senators and Representatives shall receive a Compensation for their Services, to be ascertained by Law, and paid out of the Treasury of the United States. They shall in all Cases, except Treason, Felony and Breach of the Peace, be privileged from Arrest … Read more