H.R.es499 - Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4) to rescind certain budget authority proposed to be rescinded in special messages transmitted to the Congress by the President on June 3, 2025, in accordance with section 1012(a) of the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974, and for other purposes. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.Res.499 provides for the consideration of H.R.4, a bill to rescind certain budget authority proposed by the President. The rescission is based on special messages transmitted to Congress on June 3, 2025, in accordance with the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974.
The resolution waives points of order against the bill and its provisions. It also sets the terms for debate and a motion to recommit.
Furthermore, it exempts H.R.4 from section 1017 of the Impoundment Control Act and adopts House Resolution 492.
Expected Effects
This resolution will expedite the House's consideration of H.R.4, allowing for a focused debate on the proposed rescissions. By waiving points of order, the resolution streamlines the legislative process.
The exemption from section 1017 of the Impoundment Control Act potentially alters the usual procedures for handling rescissions. The adoption of House Resolution 492 suggests a coordination or alignment with another related legislative action.
Potential Benefits
- Expedited Consideration: Allows for quicker action on the President's proposed budget rescissions.
- Focused Debate: Sets specific parameters for debate, ensuring efficient use of legislative time.
- Streamlined Process: Waiving points of order can prevent procedural delays.
- Clarification of Procedures: Addresses specific sections of the Impoundment Control Act, providing clarity on the applicable rules.
- Potential for Fiscal Control: Rescinding budget authority could lead to reduced government spending.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Reduced Scrutiny: Waiving points of order may limit the ability of some members to raise concerns about the bill.
- Altered Impoundment Procedures: Exempting the bill from section 1017 could bypass standard checks and balances.
- Potential for Unintended Consequences: Rescinding budget authority could negatively impact programs or services.
- Limited Debate: The set time limits for debate may not allow for a thorough examination of all aspects of the bill.
- Risk of Hasty Decisions: Expedited processes can sometimes lead to poorly considered legislation.
Constitutional Alignment
This resolution appears to align with Article I, Section 5 of the US Constitution, which grants each House the power to determine the rules of its proceedings. The Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974, referenced in the resolution, was enacted to provide a framework for congressional budget procedures, which falls under Congress's legislative powers.
However, the waiver of points of order could be viewed as potentially limiting the full exercise of legislative power by all members, although it remains within the House's prerogative to set its own rules. The specific impact on constitutional principles depends on the content of H.R. 4 and the rescissions it proposes.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).