hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Updates House rules on conduct, suspending rules, and adds time zone clocks.
Mr. McGovern
In committee, no House vote yet
This resolution, introduced by Mr. McGovern, proposes three key changes to House rules. It clarifies the code of official conduct for House members and employees, limits the days when the House can suspend its rules, and requires the placement of U.S. time zone clocks in the House Chamber. The bill is currently under review by several House committees.
Introduced Jan 14, 2026
H. Res. 997 has been introduced in the House of Representatives. It has been referred to the Committees on House Administration, Rules, and Ethics for consideration. For this resolution to proceed, it would need to be approved by these committees, then debated and voted on by the full House. As a House Resolution, it would not go to the Senate or require the President's signature to take effect if passed by the House.
If this resolution passes, the House's internal operations would change. House members and staff would be explicitly held to the letter and spirit of House rules. The ability to suspend rules for quick passage of legislation would be limited to Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and the last six days of a session, potentially making legislative action more predictable but less flexible. Additionally, the presence of multiple time zone clocks in the Chamber could serve as a visual reminder of the diverse geographical representation within the United States.
Supporters Say
Supporters might argue these changes promote greater accountability and more orderly legislative processes within the House.
Critics Say
Critics might suggest that limiting rule suspension could hinder swift action on urgent matters or that some changes are largely symbolic.
The proponents of this resolution could highlight its role in strengthening the integrity of House procedures, ensuring members consistently follow established rules, and providing more structure to the legislative calendar. Opponents might raise concerns that restricting the suspension of rules could slow down the House's ability to respond to immediate national needs or that the new conduct rule is a minor adjustment to existing expectations. The addition of time zone clocks might be seen as either a beneficial symbol of national unity or an unnecessary detail.