H.J.R.E.S. 4
Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to provide that debate upon legislation pending before the Senate may not be brought to a close without the concurrence of a minimum of three-fifths of the Senators.
In Plain Language
This proposal would change the Constitution to require at least three-fifths of senators to vote to end debate on most bills, instead of the current rule that allows a simple majority to do so. The amendment would lock in the Senate's debate-ending rules as they exist on January 3, 2025, or require three-fifths of all senators to change them. To become law, this constitutional amendment would need to pass both the House and Senate with two-thirds votes, then be approved by three-fourths of the states.
Official Congressional Research Service summary
This joint resolution proposes amending the Constitution to limit how the Senate may end debate on a measure or motion. Specifically, the proposed amendment provides that debate may only be brought to a close as provided under laws as in effect on January 3, 2025; by unanimous consent; or with the concurrence of at least three-fifths of all Senators.The joint resolution provides that the amendment shall be valid when ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of the states.Under Article V of the Constitution, both chambers of Congress may propose an amendment by a vote of two-thirds of all Members present for such vote. A proposed amendment must be ratified by the states as prescribed in Article V and as specified by Congress.
Cosponsors
Latest action
Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
Jan 3, 2025
Official source
Action history
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