Restructuring the House of Representatives

Abstract

Most organizations have a structure designed to solve problems which no longer exist. Jurisdictional boundaries within organizations tend to get set in concrete. Some potential solutions are not seriously considered because those solutions would threaten jurisdictional lines. The House of Representatives is like other organizations in this regard. In order to perform effectively its Constitutional and traditional functions, the House must update itself. However, there is no one ideal mode of organization which—if we achieve it will spare us later reorganizations. The Select Committee on Committees of the House of Representatives is now looking into this difficult issue. Common Cause has advanced a number of proposals for the select committee's consideration and will be working to help achieve reforms designed to improve the effectiveness and the accountability of the House and its committees. Our proposals are: (1) rotation, (2) jurisdictional realignment, (3) improvement of oversight, (4) revision of budget and priorities-setting procedures and (5) strengthening of the Speakership.