Michael Bennet to unveil reforms targeting filibuster, lobbying

[babylonsister]

More of this!


Bennet to unveil reforms targeting filibuster, lobbying
By Michael Riley
The Denver Post


Joining a growing number of lawmakers angry at Washington, U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet today will announce an ambitious set of reforms to change many of the rules under which his colleagues work, including an effort to restrict earmarks and limit the filibuster.

Using a scheduled midmorning speech on the Senate floor, Bennet will propose a package of bills that would cut a broad swath across a set of practices and procedures that have become notorious symbols of a gridlocked Capitol.

He will propose eliminating anonymous holds, banning private-sector earmarks, freezing pay and budgets for members of Congress, and barring lawmakers from lobbying for life.

Other reforms carry a symbolic punch. Lawmakers who hop rides on private jets would have to pay a percentage of the total charter cost and disclose everyone else onboard.

But the kicker is the call to restructure the filibuster, a tool that has been wielded with devastating effect in the past year by Republicans and moderate Democrats.

Bennet, who is up for election this fall and faces a primary challenge from Andrew Romanoff, would reduce the majority required to overcome a filibuster to 55 votes after specific conditions were met.

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http://www.denverpost.com/ci_14502062#ixzz0h6NRwakF

[LiberalFighter]

1. I would still support anonymous holds with the following restrictions:

Not more than 1 per 60 days and could not be extended. A reason has to be provided publicly for the hold. Could not be used to cover multiple legislation or nominations. Could only be 30 days if the hold is on a nomination outside the Senator's state.

I totally agree with a ban on private-sector earmarks. They should only be used for government related projects. Not museums run by private groups or church related groups.

[Robb]

2. LOL he's got my vote...

...just for introducing "disclose the names of everyone on the private jet" legislation. :D