The CLEAN Congress Act would overhaul the way bills are written and applied to Members of Congress. First, it would require that every bill, order, resolution, or vote submitted to the President under Article I, Section 7 contain only a single subject, with that subject clearly described in the title. This aims to prevent “omnibus” or multi-topic legislation. Second, it would remove any law that provides an exception or special treatment for a Member of Congress or their staff, ensuring laws apply equally to lawmakers and their offices. There is a narrow carve-out allowing exceptions for official duties tied to lawmaking (for example, activities related to the legislative process and access to Capitol facilities). The bill defines “Member of Congress” to include Senators, Representatives, Delegates, and Resident Commissioners. The provisions take effect starting with the 119th Congress and continue thereafter.
Key Points
- 1Single-subject requirement: Any bill, order, resolution, or vote submitted to the President must embrace no more than one subject, with that subject described in the title.
- 2Effective date: The single-subject rule applies beginning with the 119th Congress and for all future Congresses.
- 3Equal application of laws: No law may provide an exemption or special exception for any Member of Congress or their staff; laws must apply equally to everyone.
- 4Carve-out for official duties: The equal-application restriction does not override laws or rules that permit Members or staff to perform official duties directly tied to lawmaking, including access to the Capitol and related facilities.
- 5Definitions: “Member of Congress” includes Senators, Representatives, Delegates, and Resident Commissioners.