Number: RS22034
Title: House Ethics Rules Changes in the 109th Congress
Authors: Mildred L. Amer, Government and Finance Division 
Abstract: On February 1, 2006, the House of Representatives adopted H.Res. 648 revoking floor and gymnasium privileges for former Members and officers who are lobbyists. On January 4, 2005, the House adopted H.Res. 5, its rules for the 109th Congress that included amendments to the chamber's rules of conduct and the procedures of the Committee on Standards of Official Conduct.  Subsequently, on April 27, 2005, the House amended the rules adopted in January 2005 that affected the ethics process. The H.Res. 5 ethics changes that remain provide for limited use of campaign funds for official expenses, an increase in the time limit for sending franked mass mailings before elections, and an expansion of the rule governing companions on officially connected travel. In addition, prior to the opening of the 109th Congress, the House Democratic Caucus and the Republican Conference changed their ethics rules governing party leaders.
Pages: 4
Date: May 25, 2006