Difference between revisions of "Filibuster"
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| − | Until 1975 it took | + | Until 1975 it took a two-thirds vote to end debate. A rules change that year reduced the number to 60. The effect is that almost all major legislation needs 60 votes to pass the Senate. The exception comes in "reconciliation" bills that deal with the budget. |
Revision as of 09:17, August 28, 2009
A filibuster is an attempt to block Senate vote on a bill by debating it at length, by offering numerous procedural motions, or by any other delaying or obstructive actions.[1] The record for the longest filibuster is held by former Senator Strom Thurmond, who filibustered against the Civil Rights Act of 1957 for 24 hours, 18 minutes.[2]
Until 1975 it took a two-thirds vote to end debate. A rules change that year reduced the number to 60. The effect is that almost all major legislation needs 60 votes to pass the Senate. The exception comes in "reconciliation" bills that deal with the budget.
References
- ↑ [1] US Senate Reference
- ↑ http://www.senate.gov/artandhistory/history/common/briefing/Filibuster_Cloture.htm