Senators Harkin and Shaheen are holding a press conference at 3:15 on a bill to reform the abuses of the filibuster that have been on full display lately. Not all legislation can be stuffed into a ginormous reconciliation bill, which can only pass once a year. The answer is to get rid of the filibuster, or severely curtail its use.
This is just a heads up for those who might want to watch now or later. Press release below the fold.
SENATORS HARKIN, SHAHEEN TO HOLD PRESS CONFERENCE ON FILIBUSTER REFORM LEGISLATION
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) will be joined by Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) at a press conference this afternoon following the introduction of their bill to reform Senate rules that have been abused by the minority to create record gridlock. Senator Harkin introduced a similar bill in 1995, when the Democratic party was in the minority.
"In an economic climate that has been devastating for Americans, it’s time for the Senate to get moving on a jobs bill, on financial regulatory reform, and on health care," Senator Harkin said. "The minority party has ground Senate business to a halt by abusing the rules, and it’s time to reform the process."
In the 1950s, there was an average of one filibuster per Congress. Last Congress, motions were filed to end filibusters a record 139 times, and they continue at a similar pace through 2009 (67 cloture motions last year).
TODAY Thursday, February 11th
WHEN: 3:15 P.M.
WHERE: Senate Radio and TV Gallery
WHAT: Senators Harkin and Shaheen will hold a press conference to discuss their bill to reform cloture rules and get the Senate moving.