Public Law 118 – 263 – House Office of Legislative Counsel Modernization Act
Summary
Public Law 118 – 263, the “House Office of Legislative Counsel Modernization Act,” was enacted on February 10, 2025. This law aims to modernize the House Office of Legislative Counsel (HOLC), which is responsible for drafting and reviewing legislation for the U.S. House of Representatives.
Key Provisions
- Technology Upgrades: The law authorizes funding for the HOLC to upgrade its technology systems, including new software and hardware, to improve the efficiency and accuracy of its legislative drafting and review processes.
- Increased Staffing: The law allows the HOLC to increase its staff levels by 10% to meet the growing workload and complexity of legislation.
- Training and Development: The law provides funding for the HOLC to invest in training and development programs for its staff, including opportunities for professional certifications and specialized training.
- Coordination with Other Offices: The law encourages the HOLC to enhance its coordination with other House offices, such as the Office of the Majority Leader, the Office of the Speaker, and the Committee on Rules, to improve the consistency and quality of legislation.
- Reporting Requirements: The law requires the HOLC to submit an annual report to Congress on its activities, including the number of bills drafted, the average time to complete legislative drafting requests, and any challenges or successes faced.
Background
The HOLC is a nonpartisan office that provides technical and legal assistance to members of the House of Representatives in the drafting and review of legislation. It is one of the oldest legal offices in the federal government, established in 1919.
In recent years, the HOLC has faced increasing pressure due to the growing volume and complexity of legislation being considered by the House. The office has also been criticized for its outdated technology systems and limited staffing.
Significance
The House Office of Legislative Counsel Modernization Act is a significant step towards addressing the challenges faced by the HOLC. By providing funding for technology upgrades, increased staffing, and training, this law will enhance the HOLC’s ability to provide timely and high-quality legislative drafting and review services to members of the House of Representatives.
The modernization of the HOLC is expected to improve the efficiency and accuracy of the legislative process, reduce the potential for errors, and strengthen the role of the HOLC as a nonpartisan advisor to the House.
Public Law 118 – 263 – House Office of Legislative Counsel Modernization Act
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