Number: RS22867
Title: Earmark Disclosure Rules in the Senate: Member and Committee Requirements
Authors: Megan Suzanne Lynch, Analyst on the Congress and Legislative Process 
Abstract: Earmark disclosure rules in both the House and Senate establish certain administrative responsibilities that vary by chamber. Under Senate rules, a Senator requesting that an earmark be included in legislation is responsible for providing specific written information, such as the purpose and recipient of the earmark, to the committee of jurisdiction. Further, Senate committees are responsible for compiling and presenting such information in accord with Senate rules. In the Senate, disclosure rules apply to any congressional earmark, limited tax benefit, or limited tariff benefit included in either the text of a bill or any report accompanying the measure, including a conference report and joint explanatory statement. The disclosure requirements apply to earmarks in appropriations legislation, authorizing legislation, and tax measures. Furthermore, they apply not only to measures reported by committees, but also to measures not reported by committees, floor amendments and conference reports.
Pages: 5
Date: January 16, 2009