Number: RL32013
Title: The History of the Blue Slip in the Senate Committee on the Judiciary, 1917-Present
Authors: Mitchel A. Sollenberger, consultant, Government and Finance Division 
Abstract: The Judiciary Committees blue-slip policy has been a central component in its confirmation of judicial nominations. This report provides a history of the Judiciary Committee blue-slip custom, a practice which emanated from the chambers tradition of senatorial courtesy. It defines senatorial courtesy and how the practice is related to the Judiciary Committees use of the blue slip. It describes the creation of the blue-slip procedure and modifications to it. It profiles the committees blue-slip policies during the last 43 Congresses.
Pages: 28
Date: Updated October 22, 2003