Q&A: “What’s it mean when there are suspensions?”

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Thank you to Eva. L for today's question:

What's it mean when there are suspensions?

Suspensions refer to bills that will be considered under "suspension of the rules." This is an expedited way to consider non-controversial bills. These bills require a two-thirds majority vote to pass, receive 40 minutes of debate, and no amendments are allowed (except for technical corrections). Per a protocol adopted in the 112th Congress, bills brought up under "suspension of the rules" must be available publicly and electronically for three days before the vote. Check out this report from the Congressional Research Service if you really want to dive into House legislative procedure.