Cordon Rule: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definition and Impact

Definition & Meaning

The Cordon Rule is a procedural guideline in the U.S. Senate that mandates Senate committee reports to clearly detail how proposed legislation would alter existing laws. Specifically, when a bill seeks to amend current law, the report must indicate the exact text that will be removed or added to the statute. This rule is named after Guy Cordon, a former Senator from Oregon who introduced it to enhance transparency in the legislative process.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A Senate committee proposes a bill to amend tax laws. The committee report must specify which sections of the existing tax code are being changed, including the exact language that will be removed or added.

Example 2: A bill aimed at reforming healthcare regulations is introduced. The accompanying report must detail how the new bill will modify existing healthcare laws, ensuring clarity for lawmakers and the public. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

State Variation
California Similar requirements for legislative clarity but may have additional state-specific reporting rules.
Texas Emphasizes transparency but may not have a formal equivalent to the Cordon Rule.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Cordon Rule A Senate requirement for detailed legislative reporting. Focuses on transparency in amendments.
Amendment A formal change to a bill or law. Refers to the act of changing, not the reporting process.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in the legislative process or need to understand how a bill may affect existing laws, familiarize yourself with the Cordon Rule. Consider using US Legal Forms to access templates that can assist in drafting or reviewing legislative documents. If the situation is complex, seeking advice from a legal professional may be beneficial.

Quick facts

  • Jurisdiction: U.S. Senate
  • Purpose: Ensures transparency in legislative amendments
  • Key Requirement: Detailed reporting of changes to existing laws

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It is a Senate rule requiring detailed reporting on how bills change existing laws.