House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) opposed the resolution, calling proxy voting ‘unconstitutional.’
WASHINGTON—The House voted on April 1 to reject a move by House GOP leadership to thwart a resolution that would allow female House members who have just given birth and their spouses to vote in the chamber remotely.
The tally was 206–222. Nine Republicans joined all Democrats in voting against the rule that would have prevented a vote on the resolution.
The Republicans who voted with the Democrats were Reps. Anna Paulina Luna (Fla.), Mike Lawler (N.Y.), Jeff Van Drew (N.J.), Max Miller (Ohio), Ryan Mackenzie (Pa.), Tim Burchett (Tenn.), Greg Steube (Fla.), Kevin Kiley (Calif.), and Nick LaLota (N.Y.).
A discharge petition requires the signatures of 218 members to force a measure onto the House floor. That number is how many votes are needed to pass measures in the House.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) opposed the resolution, calling proxy voting “unconstitutional.”
The resolution would allow female House members and their spouses 12 weeks of voting by proxy following the birth of their child. It would also allow pregnant women to vote by proxy.
The 12-week period would begin once the member has activated that option. Voting by proxy requires members to send a letter to the House clerk with their vote and explaining why they are absent from voting in person.
“No member should have to choose between caring for their newborn and representing their constituents.”
Pettersen returned to Congress on Feb. 25 as the House passed its budget resolution that would begin the process of passing President Donald Trump’s agenda through a mechanism called reconciliation.
“Congress needs to get with the times. This bipartisan proposal is vital in promoting a pro-family Washington, where every American has a voice and the unwavering representation they deserve.”
Original News Source Link – Epoch Times
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