Number: RS20209
Title: Instructing Senate Conferees
Authors: Richard S. Beth, Government and Finance Division 
Abstract: The Senate and House often create a conference committee to propose the final version of a bill that the two houses have passed in different forms. Sometimes, the Senate votes to instruct its conferees on the nature of the agreement they should reach. These instructions are not binding, and may not ask conferees to reach an agreement that goes beyond their authority. Conferees may be instructed by motion only before they are appointed; thereafter, they may be instructed by resolution, amendment, or motion to recommit.
Pages: 2
Date: December 29, 2006