November 18, 2019

House Oks Extension Of Select Committee On Congress Modernization; Derek Kilmer Quoted

The House has voted to continue the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress’ operations through the end of the 116th Congress. The Select Committee said Thursday its authority was originally slated to run until Feb. 1, 2020.

The committee was established to develop bipartisan proposals that “promote a more modern and efficient Congress.” As part of the extension, the committee will continue working to propose changes to congressional procedures encompassing matters such as staff recruitment, compensation, retention, diversity, travel, outside services, technology and innovation.

To date, the group has conducted 12 hearings and released 29 recommendations on congressional transparency and accessibility. Derek Kilmer, D-Wash., was appointed to head the committee in January.

“It’s important to get Congress working better on behalf of the American people. That’s what the Select Committee is about," said Kilmer and Tom Graves, R-Ga., who serves as the committee's vice chair.

“We are grateful to our colleagues, House leadership, civic groups and the American people for seeing the value of this work and ensuring the progress continues over the next year."


By:  Brenda Marie Rivers
Source: Executive Gov