To improve bipartisanship in Congress, U.S. Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) on Aug. 31 introduced a bipartisan resolution that would formally change the rules of the U.S. House of Representatives to authorize two members of the chamber to serve as joint sponsors of a bill, resolution, or joint resolution if they are from opposing political parties.
“Bipartisanship isn’t a bad word — it’s more important than ever,” Rep. Kim said. “Congress must be able to come together and find common ground to get things done for the American people.”
Current House rules only allow for one lawmaker to serve as a sponsor of legislation, according to Rep. Kim, who unveiled the Building Unity Through Dual Sponsors (BUDS) resolution, House Resolution 668. Among the members who joined her in proposing the resolution were bill sponsor U.S. Rep. Emmanuel Cleaver (D-MO) and cosponsor U.S. Rep. Mike Carey (R-OH).
“I am proud to introduce this commonsense bill with Rep. Cleaver and am hopeful we can get this across the finish line,” said Rep. Kim.
Rep. Cleaver, a member of the recent Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress, said Americans want to see bipartisan collaboration from their elected officials.
“This simple yet important resolution, taken from our work on the Modernization Committee, would not only foster bipartisan partnerships in the People’s House — which leads to better governance for the American people — but it will also help the public better understand which lawmakers are truly committed to working across the aisle for the betterment of their communities,” he said. “I want to thank Rep. Kim for co-leading this bipartisan resolution, and I look forward to working with her, our co-sponsors and endorsing organizations to facilitate more cooperation in Congress.”
The BUDS Resolution has garnered support from the Bipartisan Policy Center Action, Demand Progress, the Foundation for American Innovation, and Issue One.
“Since day one, I have fought to break through the partisan gridlock, bring some commonsense to Washington, and get things done,” added Rep. Kim. “The BUDS Act reflects this commitment and aims to encourage more bipartisanship and ensure we focus on delivering results for our constituents over petty infighting.”