This program is made by the Generous Support of the American People through the United States A g e n c y f o r I n t e r n a t i o n a l Development (USAID) under Award No. 669-A-00-09-00070-00. The opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United states Government.

THE 52ND LEGISLATURE

RULES AND PROCEDURES OF

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Validated and Approvedby the

House of Representativesof the 52nd Legislature

JOINT LEGISLATIVE MONETIZATION COMMITTEE52 LEGISLATURE OF LIBERIAND

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESTIME TABLE

REGULAR SESSIONS Opening: 2nd Working Monday in January of

each year

st Adjournment: August 31 of each year Session Days: Tuesdays and Thursday of each

week

BREAKSEaster: 2 Weeks during each Easter period Annual: 1st September each year

COMMITTEES FUNCTION Daily Sittings: Monday and Wednesday of each

week

st Budget Submission: 1 May of each year

thBudget Approval: June 30 of each year

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVESTIME TABLE

REGULAR SESSIONS Opening: 2nd Working Monday in January of

each year

st Adjournment: August 31 of each year Session Days: Tuesdays and Thursday of each

week

BREAKSEaster: 2 Weeks during each Easter period Annual: 1st September each year

COMMITTEES FUNCTION Daily Sittings: Monday and Wednesday of each

week

st Budget Submission: 1 May of each year

thBudget Approval: June 30 of each year

CONTENTS Page

Chapter 1: Main Disposition 1

Rule 1 – Purpose 1

Rule 2 – Legislative Period and Meeting Place 1

Rule 3 – Secret Session 1

Chapter 2: Powers and Duties of the House 3

Rule 4 – Contempt Power 3

Chapter 3: Leadership of the House 4

Rule 5 – The Leadership of the House of Representatives 4

Chapter 4: Speaker and Deputy Speaker 5

Rule 6 – Election of Speaker and Deputy Speaker 5

Rule 7 – Powers and Duties of the Speaker 5

Rule 8 – Powers and Duties of the Deputy Speaker 6

Rule 9 – Removal/Expulsion of Member 7

Rule 10 – Succession of the Leadership 7

Chapter 5: House Members 8

Rule 11 – Taking of Oath 8

Chapter 6: Quorum and Commencement of Business 9

Rule 12 – Quorum 9

Rule 13 – Commencement of Business 9

Rule 14– Order of Business 9

Rule 15 – The Journal 10

Chapter 7: Questions, Motions, and Amendments 11

Rule 16 – Questions 11

Rule 17 – Motions 11

CONTENTS Page

Chapter 1: Main Disposition 1

Rule 1 – Purpose 1

Rule 2 – Legislative Period and Meeting Place 1

Rule 3 – Secret Session 1

Chapter 2: Powers and Duties of the House 3

Rule 4 – Contempt Power 3

Chapter 3: Leadership of the House 4

Rule 5 – The Leadership of the House of Representatives 4

Chapter 4: Speaker and Deputy Speaker 5

Rule 6 – Election of Speaker and Deputy Speaker 5

Rule 7 – Powers and Duties of the Speaker 5

Rule 8 – Powers and Duties of the Deputy Speaker 6

Rule 9 – Removal/Expulsion of Member 7

Rule 10 – Succession of the Leadership 7

Chapter 5: House Members 8

Rule 11 – Taking of Oath 8

Chapter 6: Quorum and Commencement of Business 9

Rule 12 – Quorum 9

Rule 13 – Commencement of Business 9

Rule 14– Order of Business 9

Rule 15 – The Journal 10

Chapter 7: Questions, Motions, and Amendments 11

Rule 16 – Questions 11

Rule 17 – Motions 11

i i

Chapter 8: Voting and Voting Procedure 13

Rule 18 – Vote 13

Rule 19 – Voting Procedures 13

Rule 20 – Explanation of a Subject Matter to

Absent Member 14

Rule 21 – Special Sanction for Absenteeism 14

Chapter 9: Debate and Order 15

Rule 22 – Debate 15

Rule 23 – Question of Order 16

Chapter 10: Election and Duties of Other Staff 18

Rule 24 – Election of Other Staffs 18

Rule 25 – Duties of the Chief Clerk 18

Rule 26 – Duties of other Staff 19

Rule 27 – List of the Speaker’s Staff 21

Rule 28 – List of the Deputy Speaker’s Staff 22

Rule 29 – List of Honorable Members’ Staff 22

Chapter 11: Bills and Petitions 24

Rule 30 – Definition of Bill 24

Rule 31 – Reading of Bills 24

Rule 32 – Meeting of Conference Committee 25

Rule 33 – Assent 25

Rule 34 – Procedure on Bills 25

Rule 35 – Procedure on Financial Bills (Budget) 26

Rule 36 – Announcement of Members’ Bills 27

Rule 37 – Forms of Bills 27

Rule 38 – Title of Bills 27

Rule 39 – Discharge Petition 27

Chapter 8: Voting and Voting Procedure 13

Rule 18 – Vote 13

Rule 19 – Voting Procedures 13

Rule 20 – Explanation of a Subject Matter to

Absent Member 14

Rule 21 – Special Sanction for Absenteeism 14

Chapter 9: Debate and Order 15

Rule 22 – Debate 15

Rule 23 – Question of Order 16

Chapter 10: Election and Duties of Other Staff 18

Rule 24 – Election of Other Staffs 18

Rule 25 – Duties of the Chief Clerk 18

Rule 26 – Duties of other Staff 19

Rule 27 – List of the Speaker’s Staff 21

Rule 28 – List of the Deputy Speaker’s Staff 22

Rule 29 – List of Honorable Members’ Staff 22

Chapter 11: Bills and Petitions 24

Rule 30 – Definition of Bill 24

Rule 31 – Reading of Bills 24

Rule 32 – Meeting of Conference Committee 25

Rule 33 – Assent 25

Rule 34 – Procedure on Bills 25

Rule 35 – Procedure on Financial Bills (Budget) 26

Rule 36 – Announcement of Members’ Bills 27

Rule 37 – Forms of Bills 27

Rule 38 – Title of Bills 27

Rule 39 – Discharge Petition 27

ii ii

Chapter 12: House Code of Conduct 28

Rule 40 – Honesty and Transparency 28

Rule 41 – Using Power Properly 28

Rule 42 – Prestige and Dignity of the House 28

Rule 43 – Confidentiality 28

Rule 44 – Being Free from Corruption 29

Rule 45 – Conflict of Interest 29

Chapter 13: Observance of the Ethics of the House 30

Rule 46 – General Provision 30

Rule 47 – The Observance of Rights 30

Rule 48 – Observing the Ethics 30

Chapter 14: Legislative Committees 32

Rule 49 – General Provision 32

Rule 50 – Committee Power 32

Rule 51 – Oversight Responsibilities of Committees 32

Rule 52 – Committee Procedure 33

Rule 53 – Composition of Committees 34

Rule 54 – Vacancies and Absences on Committees 34

Rule 55 – Committee Chairperson Staff List 35

Rule 56 – Statutory Committees 35

Rule 57 – Function & Jurisdiction of Statutory Committees 35

Rule 58 – Standing Committees 39

Rule 59 – Functions & Jurisdiction of Standing Committees 39

Chapter 15: Messages and Ratification of Treaties 49

Rule 60 – Messages 49

Rule 61 – Ratification of Treaties 49

Chapter 16: Miscellaneous 50

Rule 62– House of Representative and Financial Manual 50

Rule 63-Amendment and Suspension of Rules 50

Chapter 12: House Code of Conduct 28

Rule 40 – Honesty and Transparency 28

Rule 41 – Using Power Properly 28

Rule 42 – Prestige and Dignity of the House 28

Rule 43 – Confidentiality 28

Rule 44 – Being Free from Corruption 29

Rule 45 – Conflict of Interest 29

Chapter 13: Observance of the Ethics of the House 30

Rule 46 – General Provision 30

Rule 47 – The Observance of Rights 30

Rule 48 – Observing the Ethics 30

Chapter 14: Legislative Committees 32

Rule 49 – General Provision 32

Rule 50 – Committee Power 32

Rule 51 – Oversight Responsibilities of Committees 32

Rule 52 – Committee Procedure 33

Rule 53 – Composition of Committees 34

Rule 54 – Vacancies and Absences on Committees 34

Rule 55 – Committee Chairperson Staff List 35

Rule 56 – Statutory Committees 35

Rule 57 – Function & Jurisdiction of Statutory Committees 35

Rule 58 – Standing Committees 39

Rule 59 – Functions & Jurisdiction of Standing Committees 39

Chapter 15: Messages and Ratification of Treaties 49

Rule 60 – Messages 49

Rule 61 – Ratification of Treaties 49

Chapter 16: Miscellaneous 50

Rule 62– House of Representative and Financial Manual 50

Rule 63-Amendment and Suspension of Rules 50

iii iii

CONTENTS ARRANGED BY RULE TITLE Page

Absent Member Rule 20 14

Amendment & Suspension of Rules Rule 63 50

Announcement of Members’ Bills Rule 36 27

Assent Rule 33 25

Being Free from Corruption Rule 44 25

Commencement of Business Rule 13 9

Committee Chairperson Staff List Rule 55 35

Committee Power Rule 50 32

Committee Procedure Rule 52 33

Composition of Committees Rule 53 34

Confidentiality Rule 43 28

Conflict of Interest Rule 45 29

Contempt Power Rule 4 3

Debate Rule 22 15

Definition of Bill Rule 30 24

Discharge Petition Rule 39 27

Duties of other Staff Rule 26 19

Duties of the Chief Clerk Rule 25 18

Election of Other Staffs Rule 24 18

Election of Speaker and Deputy Speaker Rule 6 3

Explanation of a Subject Matter to

Forms of Bills Rule 37 27

Function & Jurisdiction of Statutory Committees Rule 57 35

Functions & Jurisdiction of Standing Committees Rule 59 39

General Provision Rule 46 30

General Provision Rule 49 32

Honesty and Transparency Rule 40 28

House of Representative and Financial Manual Rule 62 50

CONTENTS ARRANGED BY RULE TITLE Page

Absent Member Rule 20 14

Amendment & Suspension of Rules Rule 63 50

Announcement of Members’ Bills Rule 36 27

Assent Rule 33 25

Being Free from Corruption Rule 44 25

Commencement of Business Rule 13 9

Committee Chairperson Staff List Rule 55 35

Committee Power Rule 50 32

Committee Procedure Rule 52 33

Composition of Committees Rule 53 34

Confidentiality Rule 43 28

Conflict of Interest Rule 45 29

Contempt Power Rule 4 3

Debate Rule 22 15

Definition of Bill Rule 30 24

Discharge Petition Rule 39 27

Duties of other Staff Rule 26 19

Duties of the Chief Clerk Rule 25 18

Election of Other Staffs Rule 24 18

Election of Speaker and Deputy Speaker Rule 6 3

Explanation of a Subject Matter to

Forms of Bills Rule 37 27

Function & Jurisdiction of Statutory Committees Rule 57 35

Functions & Jurisdiction of Standing Committees Rule 59 39

General Provision Rule 46 30

General Provision Rule 49 32

Honesty and Transparency Rule 40 28

House of Representative and Financial Manual Rule 62 50

iv iv

Legislative Period and Meeting Place Rule 2 1

List of Honorable Members’ Staff Rule 29 22

List of the Deputy Speaker’s Staff Rule 28 22

List of the Speaker’s Staff Rule 27 21

Meeting of Conference Committee Rule 32 25

Messages Rule 60 49

Motions Rule 17 11

Observing the Ethics Rule 48 30

Order of Business Rule 14 9

Oversight Responsibilities of Committees Rule 51 32

Powers and Duties of the Deputy Speaker Rule 8 6

Powers and Duties of the Speaker Rule 7 5

Prestige and Dignity of the House Rule 42 28

Procedure on Bills Rule 34 25

Procedure on Money Bills (Budget) Rule 35 26

PurposeRule 1

Question of Order Rule 23 15

Questions Rule 16 11

Quorum Rule 12 9

Ratification of Treaties Rule 61 49

Reading of Bills Rule 31 24

Removal/Expulsion of Member Rule 9 7

Secret Session Rule 3 1

Special Sanction for Absenteeism Rule 21 14

Standing Committees Rule 58 39

Statutory Committees Rule 56 35

Succession of the Leadership Rule 10 7

Legislative Period and Meeting Place Rule 2 1

List of Honorable Members’ Staff Rule 29 22

List of the Deputy Speaker’s Staff Rule 28 22

List of the Speaker’s Staff Rule 27 21

Meeting of Conference Committee Rule 32 25

Messages Rule 60 49

Motions Rule 17 11

Observing the Ethics Rule 48 30

Order of Business Rule 14 9

Oversight Responsibilities of Committees Rule 51 32

Powers and Duties of the Deputy Speaker Rule 8 6

Powers and Duties of the Speaker Rule 7 5

Prestige and Dignity of the House Rule 42 28

Procedure on Bills Rule 34 25

Procedure on Money Bills (Budget) Rule 35 26

PurposeRule 1

Question of Order Rule 23 15

Questions Rule 16 11

Quorum Rule 12 9

Ratification of Treaties Rule 61 49

Reading of Bills Rule 31 24

Removal/Expulsion of Member Rule 9 7

Secret Session Rule 3 1

Special Sanction for Absenteeism Rule 21 14

Standing Committees Rule 58 39

Statutory Committees Rule 56 35

Succession of the Leadership Rule 10 7

v v

Taking of Oath Rule 11 8

The Journal Rule 15 10

The Leadership of the House of Representatives Rule 5 4

The Observance of Rights Rule 47 30

Title of Bills Rule 38 27

Using Power Properly Rule 41 28

Vacancies and Absences on Committees Rule 54 34

Vote Rule 18 13

Voting Procedures Rule 19 13

Taking of Oath Rule 11 8

The Journal Rule 15 10

The Leadership of the House of Representatives Rule 5 4

The Observance of Rights Rule 47 30

Title of Bills Rule 38 27

Using Power Properly Rule 41 28

Vacancies and Absences on Committees Rule 54 34

Vote Rule 18 13

Voting Procedures Rule 19 13

vi vi

CHAPTER 1

MAIN DISPOSITIONS

RULE 1

PURPOSE

1.1 In order to ensure stability, decorum, orderliness, discipline and the

proper distribution and delimitation of power, responsibilities, and

jurisdiction in the House of Representatives, Republic of Liberia; and in

order to further guide Legislative practices and procedures and to regulate the

activities of members of this Honorable body; and in further strict adherence

to Article 38 of the Constitution of the Republic of Liberia, which empowers

each House of the National Legislature of the Republic to adopt its own rules

of procedure and enforce same;

nd1.2 We the members of the 52 Legislature of the House of Representatives,

Republic of Liberia do hereby solemnly make, establish, proclaim, adopt and

publish these rules to govern the day-to-day activities of members of the

Honorable House of Representatives of the Republic of Liberia.

RULE 2

LEGISLATIVE PERIOD AND MEETING PLACE

2.1 Daily Sessions of the House of Representatives shall be held on Tuesdays

and Thursdays of each week from the hours of 10:00am to 12:00pm and from

2:00pm to 4:00pm, at which time roll call and votes are taken, while Mondays

and Wednesdays are set aside for Committees meetings and Fridays to be

observed for constituency business.

2.2 The Honorable House of Representatives, Republic of Liberia, shall meet

on the second working Monday of January in each year, at the hour of

9:00am, except in a Presidential Election Year, in which case it shall meet the

second working Monday in December at 9:00am.

RULE 3

SECRET SESSION

3.1 When the president of the Republic of Liberia shall meet the House in the

House’s Chamber for the consideration of executive business, he/she shall

have his/her seat on the right of the Presiding Officer.

CHAPTER 1

MAIN DISPOSITIONS

RULE 1

PURPOSE

1.1 In order to ensure stability, decorum, orderliness, discipline and the

proper distribution and delimitation of power, responsibilities, and

jurisdiction in the House of Representatives, Republic of Liberia; and in

order to further guide Legislative practices and procedures and to regulate the

activities of members of this Honorable body; and in further strict adherence

to Article 38 of the Constitution of the Republic of Liberia, which empowers

each House of the National Legislature of the Republic to adopt its own rules

of procedure and enforce same;

nd1.2 We the members of the 52 Legislature of the House of Representatives,

Republic of Liberia do hereby solemnly make, establish, proclaim, adopt and

publish these rules to govern the day-to-day activities of members of the

Honorable House of Representatives of the Republic of Liberia.

RULE 2

LEGISLATIVE PERIOD AND MEETING PLACE

2.1 Daily Sessions of the House of Representatives shall be held on Tuesdays

and Thursdays of each week from the hours of 10:00am to 12:00pm and from

2:00pm to 4:00pm, at which time roll call and votes are taken, while Mondays

and Wednesdays are set aside for Committees meetings and Fridays to be

observed for constituency business.

2.2 The Honorable House of Representatives, Republic of Liberia, shall meet

on the second working Monday of January in each year, at the hour of

9:00am, except in a Presidential Election Year, in which case it shall meet the

second working Monday in December at 9:00am.

RULE 3

SECRET SESSION

3.1 When the president of the Republic of Liberia shall meet the House in the

House’s Chamber for the consideration of executive business, he/she shall

have his/her seat on the right of the Presiding Officer.

1. 1.

3.2 When acting upon confidential or executive business, the same is

considered executive session, the House Chambers shall be cleared of all

persons; save the Chief Clerk and the Sergeant at Arms.

3.3 Whenever the injunction of secrecy shall be removed from any part of

the proceedings of the House in Executive Session or Secret Legislative

Session, the order of the House removing the same shall be entered by the

Chief Clerk of the House in the House’s Journal, and shall be published in

the Record.

3.2 When acting upon confidential or executive business, the same is

considered executive session, the House Chambers shall be cleared of all

persons; save the Chief Clerk and the Sergeant at Arms.

3.3 Whenever the injunction of secrecy shall be removed from any part of

the proceedings of the House in Executive Session or Secret Legislative

Session, the order of the House removing the same shall be entered by the

Chief Clerk of the House in the House’s Journal, and shall be published in

the Record.

2. 2.

CHAPTER 2

POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE HOUSE

RULE 4

CONTEMPT POWER

4.1 “Contempt of the Legislature shall consist of actions which obstruct the

Legislative function or which obstruct or impede members or officers of the

Legislature in the discharge of their Legislative duties,” and is punishable

by a fine of not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000.00) and/or

imprisonment in a common jail for not more than one month or the duration

of the current session of the House; after a hearing consistent with due

process of law. Decisions rendered from contempt charges are not

appealable.

CHAPTER 2

POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE HOUSE

RULE 4

CONTEMPT POWER

4.1 “Contempt of the Legislature shall consist of actions which obstruct the

Legislative function or which obstruct or impede members or officers of the

Legislature in the discharge of their Legislative duties,” and is punishable

by a fine of not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000.00) and/or

imprisonment in a common jail for not more than one month or the duration

of the current session of the House; after a hearing consistent with due

process of law. Decisions rendered from contempt charges are not

appealable.

3. 3.

CHAPTER 3

LEADERSHIP OF THE HOUSE

RULE 5

THE LEADERSHIP OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

5.1 The leadership of the House of Representatives shall consist of the

following officials:

CHAPTER 3

LEADERSHIP OF THE HOUSE

RULE 5

THE LEADERSHIP OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

5.1 The leadership of the House of Representatives shall consist of the

following officials:

4. 4.

a.

b.

c.

d.

e.

f.

g.

h.

I.

j.

k.

a.

b.

c.

d.

e.

f.

g.

h.

I.

j.

k.

The Speaker

The Deputy Speaker

The House Chairman on Executive

The House Chairman on Foreign Affairs

The House Chairman on Judiciary

The House Chairman on Ways, Means & Finance

The House Chairman on Rules, Order, & Administration

The House Chairman on Public Accounts and Expenditures and

The House Chairman on Gender Equity and Child Development

The House Chairman on National Security

All Co-Chairpersons of Statutory Committees

The Speaker

The Deputy Speaker

The House Chairman on Executive

The House Chairman on Foreign Affairs

The House Chairman on Judiciary

The House Chairman on Ways, Means & Finance

The House Chairman on Rules, Order, & Administration

The House Chairman on Public Accounts and Expenditures and

The House Chairman on Gender Equity and Child Development

The House Chairman on National Security

All Co-Chairpersons of Statutory Committees

CHAPTER 4

SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER

RULE 6

ELECTION OF SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER

6.1 Every six years, on the first day of Session, the Chief Clerk, whose term

of Office shall not expire until his/her successor is elected, shall call the

House to order, conduct devotions, and announce to the Members present

that the House is without a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker. The Members

then shall elect one of their members as Speaker to serve for a term of six

years. The Chief Clerk shall then appoint a Special Committee, which shall

escort the Speaker to his seat, and the Chief Clerk shall then retire. On the

same day, the Deputy Speaker shall be elected to serve a term of six years.

The Speaker shall then direct that a message be sent to the Senate and

President of the Republic of Liberia informing them that a quorum of the

House has been established, that a new Speaker and Deputy Speaker have

been elected and that members have been given the oath of office and that the

House is ready to conduct legislative business and is prepared to receive any

communication from the Senate or the President.

6.2 Election of Deputy Speaker shall be presided over by the Speaker.

RULE 7

POWERS & DUTIES OF THE SPEAKER

7.1 The Speaker shall perform the following duties:

7.2 Call the Honorable House of Representatives to order at the

commencement of each day’s session and shall proceed to business in

manner prescribed in these rules.

7.3 Preserve order and perfect decorum and shall decide all questions of

order subject to an appeal to the Honorable House of Representatives.

The Speaker shall see that members conduct themselves in a civil and

orderly manner. When necessary, the Speaker may order the Sergeant-at-

Arms to clear the aisles and compel members to take their seats.

CHAPTER 4

SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER

RULE 6

ELECTION OF SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER

6.1 Every six years, on the first day of Session, the Chief Clerk, whose term

of Office shall not expire until his/her successor is elected, shall call the

House to order, conduct devotions, and announce to the Members present

that the House is without a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker. The Members

then shall elect one of their members as Speaker to serve for a term of six

years. The Chief Clerk shall then appoint a Special Committee, which shall

escort the Speaker to his seat, and the Chief Clerk shall then retire. On the

same day, the Deputy Speaker shall be elected to serve a term of six years.

The Speaker shall then direct that a message be sent to the Senate and

President of the Republic of Liberia informing them that a quorum of the

House has been established, that a new Speaker and Deputy Speaker have

been elected and that members have been given the oath of office and that the

House is ready to conduct legislative business and is prepared to receive any

communication from the Senate or the President.

6.2 Election of Deputy Speaker shall be presided over by the Speaker.

RULE 7

POWERS & DUTIES OF THE SPEAKER

7.1 The Speaker shall perform the following duties:

7.2 Call the Honorable House of Representatives to order at the

commencement of each day’s session and shall proceed to business in

manner prescribed in these rules.

7.3 Preserve order and perfect decorum and shall decide all questions of

order subject to an appeal to the Honorable House of Representatives.

The Speaker shall see that members conduct themselves in a civil and

orderly manner. When necessary, the Speaker may order the Sergeant-at-

Arms to clear the aisles and compel members to take their seats.

5. 5.

7.4 Appoint the Chairpersons and Co-chairpersons of Statutory Committees.

7.5 Appoint members of Statutory Committees in consultation with the House’s Leadership.

7.6 Appoint Chairpersons, Co-chairpersons and Members of Standing Committees in consultation with the House’s Leadership.

7.7 Transmit all directives of the Honorable House of Representatives to the Chief Clerk.

7.8 In appointing the chairpersons, co-chairpersons and members of each Standing Committee, the Speaker shall take into consideration the partisan composition of the House, professional knowledge, expertise or experience of the individual appertaining to the functions of the committee to which he or she is appointed.

7.9 Represent the Honorable House of Representatives at all public and official functions whether or not the Honorable House of Representatives is in session.

7.10 Sign all bills, resolutions and addresses after they have been enrolled and also approve transactions after the account department, Ways, Means, & Finance and the Deputy Speaker shall have initialed them.

7.11 The Speaker shall carry out other duties assigned to him by plenary.

RULE 8

POWERS & DUTIES OF THE DEPUTY SPEAKER

8.1 In the absence of the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker of the Honorable

House of Representatives shall preside over the sitting of the August

Body and shall exercise all rights and powers assigned to the Speaker.

8.2 The Deputy Speaker shall assist the Speaker in the discharge of his/her

functions, and he/she shall perform such duties as the Speaker shall

delegate or deem appropriate and shall also initial any financial and other

transactions prior to the approval of the Speaker.

8.3 The Speaker and Deputy Speaker shall serve as Ex-Officials of all

committees.

7.4 Appoint the Chairpersons and Co-chairpersons of Statutory Committees.

7.5 Appoint members of Statutory Committees in consultation with the House’s Leadership.

7.6 Appoint Chairpersons, Co-chairpersons and Members of Standing Committees in consultation with the House’s Leadership.

7.7 Transmit all directives of the Honorable House of Representatives to the Chief Clerk.

7.8 In appointing the chairpersons, co-chairpersons and members of each Standing Committee, the Speaker shall take into consideration the partisan composition of the House, professional knowledge, expertise or experience of the individual appertaining to the functions of the committee to which he or she is appointed.

7.9 Represent the Honorable House of Representatives at all public and official functions whether or not the Honorable House of Representatives is in session.

7.10 Sign all bills, resolutions and addresses after they have been enrolled and also approve transactions after the account department, Ways, Means, & Finance and the Deputy Speaker shall have initialed them.

7.11 The Speaker shall carry out other duties assigned to him by plenary.

RULE 8

POWERS & DUTIES OF THE DEPUTY SPEAKER

8.1 In the absence of the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker of the Honorable

House of Representatives shall preside over the sitting of the August

Body and shall exercise all rights and powers assigned to the Speaker.

8.2 The Deputy Speaker shall assist the Speaker in the discharge of his/her

functions, and he/she shall perform such duties as the Speaker shall

delegate or deem appropriate and shall also initial any financial and other

transactions prior to the approval of the Speaker.

8.3 The Speaker and Deputy Speaker shall serve as Ex-Officials of all

committees.

6. 6.

RULE 9

REMOVAL/EXPULSION OF MEMBER

9.1 The Speaker, Deputy Speaker and other Officers of the House, may be

removed from office for cause by a resolution of a two-thirds majority of the

member of the House.

9.2 A member may be expelled from the House for cause by a resolution of a

two-thirds majority of the members of the House.

RULE 10

SUCCESSION OF THE LEADERSHIP

10.1 When the office of the Speaker shall become vacant by reason of

removal, death, resignation, inability or other disabilities, the Deputy

Speaker shall act as Speaker until a new speaker is elected within sixty days.

When the Speaker is absent from session, the Deputy Speaker shall act in

accordance with Rule 8.1 and 8.2. In the absence of the Speaker and Deputy

Speaker, such member of the House, as the House may elect for that purpose

shall preside. Such member shall be known as “Speaker Pro-Tempore”.

RULE 9

REMOVAL/EXPULSION OF MEMBER

9.1 The Speaker, Deputy Speaker and other Officers of the House, may be

removed from office for cause by a resolution of a two-thirds majority of the

member of the House.

9.2 A member may be expelled from the House for cause by a resolution of a

two-thirds majority of the members of the House.

RULE 10

SUCCESSION OF THE LEADERSHIP

10.1 When the office of the Speaker shall become vacant by reason of

removal, death, resignation, inability or other disabilities, the Deputy

Speaker shall act as Speaker until a new speaker is elected within sixty days.

When the Speaker is absent from session, the Deputy Speaker shall act in

accordance with Rule 8.1 and 8.2. In the absence of the Speaker and Deputy

Speaker, such member of the House, as the House may elect for that purpose

shall preside. Such member shall be known as “Speaker Pro-Tempore”.

7. 7.

CHAPTER 5

HOUSE MEMBERS

RULE 11

TAKING OF OATH

11.1 Each member of the House of Representatives before taking his/her

seat, shall take an oath or affirmation to uphold and defend the Constitution

and the Laws of the Republic of Liberia as well as to faithfully discharge the

duties and functions of the office as a member of the House of

Representatives. The oath shall be taken from the Constitution of the

Republic of Liberia and shall read thus: “I, (state name), do solemnly swear

that I will support, uphold, protect and defend the Constitution and Laws of

the Republic of Liberia and bear true faith and allegiance to the Republic and

will faithfully, conscientiously and impartially discharge the duties and

functions of the office of the Honorable House of Representatives, to the

best of my ability. SO HELP ME GOD.” After the oath has been duly

administered, the Speaker shall order the Chief Clerk to call the roll for the

official start of duty.

CHAPTER 5

HOUSE MEMBERS

RULE 11

TAKING OF OATH

11.1 Each member of the House of Representatives before taking his/her

seat, shall take an oath or affirmation to uphold and defend the Constitution

and the Laws of the Republic of Liberia as well as to faithfully discharge the

duties and functions of the office as a member of the House of

Representatives. The oath shall be taken from the Constitution of the

Republic of Liberia and shall read thus: “I, (state name), do solemnly swear

that I will support, uphold, protect and defend the Constitution and Laws of

the Republic of Liberia and bear true faith and allegiance to the Republic and

will faithfully, conscientiously and impartially discharge the duties and

functions of the office of the Honorable House of Representatives, to the

best of my ability. SO HELP ME GOD.” After the oath has been duly

administered, the Speaker shall order the Chief Clerk to call the roll for the

official start of duty.

8. 8.

CHAPTER 6

QUORUM AND COMMENCEMENT OF

BUSINESS

RULE 12

QUORUM

12.1 A quorum shall consist of a simple majority of the members of the

Honorable House of Representatives. Quorum shall be necessary for the

transaction of business. However, a minority may meet from day to day.

Meetings at which a quorum is not present, only a motion to compel the

attendance of absent members or to adjourn may be made.

RULE 13

COMMENCEMENT OF BUSINESS

13.1 Upon a quorum being present and the Presiding Officer having taken

the chair, the Sergeant-At-Arm shall cry for the commencement of the

day’s session, following which the Chaplain shall offer prayers.

RULE 14 ORDER OF BUSINESS

14.1 Regular order of business shall be as follows:

Session call to orderPrayersRoll callReading of Daily Journal and adoptionReading and adoption of the agendaCall for petitionsCall for reports of Standing CommitteesCall for reports of Special CommitteesCall for Motions, Resolutions and BillsCall for the consideration of Senate AmendmentsCall for business on the Speaker’s deskCall for unfinished and miscellaneous businessAnnouncement of pending reports by the chief clerkAdjournment

CHAPTER 6

QUORUM AND COMMENCEMENT OF

BUSINESS

RULE 12

QUORUM

12.1 A quorum shall consist of a simple majority of the members of the

Honorable House of Representatives. Quorum shall be necessary for the

transaction of business. However, a minority may meet from day to day.

Meetings at which a quorum is not present, only a motion to compel the

attendance of absent members or to adjourn may be made.

RULE 13

COMMENCEMENT OF BUSINESS

13.1 Upon a quorum being present and the Presiding Officer having taken

the chair, the Sergeant-At-Arm shall cry for the commencement of the

day’s session, following which the Chaplain shall offer prayers.

RULE 14 ORDER OF BUSINESS

14.1 Regular order of business shall be as follows:

Session call to orderPrayersRoll callReading of Daily Journal and adoptionReading and adoption of the agendaCall for petitionsCall for reports of Standing CommitteesCall for reports of Special CommitteesCall for Motions, Resolutions and BillsCall for the consideration of Senate AmendmentsCall for business on the Speaker’s deskCall for unfinished and miscellaneous businessAnnouncement of pending reports by the chief clerkAdjournment

9. 9.

a.b.c.d.e.f.g.h.I.j.k.l.m.n.

a.b.c.d.e.f.g.h.I.j.k.l.m.n.

RULE 15

THE JOURNAL

15.1 The proceedings of the Honorable House of Representatives shall be

summarized and accurately recorded in the Daily Journal. It shall contain

matters dealing with messages from the President, Bills, Resolutions,

Petitions, Motions, Reports, Memorials, Letters, Papers, Votes, Hearings,

Investigations, Impeachment proceedings when sitting as a Court of

Impeachment and Recordation, of debates and decisions arising there from.

The records shall reflect the name, party and county that represents each

member who speaks, makes motions, or otherwise address an issue during

any deliberation of the House.

15.2 Owing to the voluminous nature of the House Journal, it shall not be

necessary to read the House Journal daily in open session. Rather, the Chief

Clerk of the House shall peruse the Journal for editing after which copies of

the edited Journal shall be distributed to the Members of the House for any

further corrections and such corrections shall be completed within two (2)

days. Upon the receipt of corrections or the lack thereof, the Journal shall be

adopted and be in the final typed form and reproduced for circulation among

the House Members in open session.

RULE 15

THE JOURNAL

15.1 The proceedings of the Honorable House of Representatives shall be

summarized and accurately recorded in the Daily Journal. It shall contain

matters dealing with messages from the President, Bills, Resolutions,

Petitions, Motions, Reports, Memorials, Letters, Papers, Votes, Hearings,

Investigations, Impeachment proceedings when sitting as a Court of

Impeachment and Recordation, of debates and decisions arising there from.

The records shall reflect the name, party and county that represents each

member who speaks, makes motions, or otherwise address an issue during

any deliberation of the House.

15.2 Owing to the voluminous nature of the House Journal, it shall not be

necessary to read the House Journal daily in open session. Rather, the Chief

Clerk of the House shall peruse the Journal for editing after which copies of

the edited Journal shall be distributed to the Members of the House for any

further corrections and such corrections shall be completed within two (2)

days. Upon the receipt of corrections or the lack thereof, the Journal shall be

adopted and be in the final typed form and reproduced for circulation among

the House Members in open session.

10. 10.

CHAPTER 7

QUESTIONS, MOTIONS & AMENDMENTS

RULE 16 QUESTIONS

16.1 All questions, whether in committee or before the House, except privileged questions, shall be put in the order in which they are made.

16.2 The call for the vote shall be directly put in this form, “Those in favor of (as the question may be) say ‘yea”, and after the affirmative vote is expressed, “those of a contrary opinion say ‘nay”. If the Speaker is in doubt, or a division be called for, the House shall divide and a roll call be taken. The Speaker shall announce the results.

RULE 17 MOTIONS

17.1 When a motion is put and seconded, it shall be stated by the Presiding Officer or, being in writing, shall be handed to the Presiding Officer who shall order it read by the Chief Clerk of the House before debate.

17.2 When a motion is stated by the Presiding Officer or read by the Chief Clerk of the House, it shall be deemed to be in possession of the House.

17.3 Any motion or resolution may be withdrawn or modified by a mover at any time before a decision, amendment or order of the yeas and nays, except a motion to reconsider which shall not be withdrawn without the consent of the mover.

17.4 When a matter is pending or is being debated or considered, no motion shall be entertained, except a motion:

a. To adjourn to a day certain or that when the House adjourns it shall be a day certain;

b. To take a recess to a time certain;

c. To proceed to the consideration of executive business;

d. To lay on the table;

CHAPTER 7

QUESTIONS, MOTIONS & AMENDMENTS

RULE 16 QUESTIONS

16.1 All questions, whether in committee or before the House, except privileged questions, shall be put in the order in which they are made.

16.2 The call for the vote shall be directly put in this form, “Those in favor of (as the question may be) say ‘yea”, and after the affirmative vote is expressed, “those of a contrary opinion say ‘nay”. If the Speaker is in doubt, or a division be called for, the House shall divide and a roll call be taken. The Speaker shall announce the results.

RULE 17 MOTIONS

17.1 When a motion is put and seconded, it shall be stated by the Presiding Officer or, being in writing, shall be handed to the Presiding Officer who shall order it read by the Chief Clerk of the House before debate.

17.2 When a motion is stated by the Presiding Officer or read by the Chief Clerk of the House, it shall be deemed to be in possession of the House.

17.3 Any motion or resolution may be withdrawn or modified by a mover at any time before a decision, amendment or order of the yeas and nays, except a motion to reconsider which shall not be withdrawn without the consent of the mover.

17.4 When a matter is pending or is being debated or considered, no motion shall be entertained, except a motion:

a. To adjourn to a day certain or that when the House adjourns it shall be a day certain;b. To take a recess to a time certain;

c. To proceed to the consideration of executive business;

d. To lay on the table;

11. 11.

e. To postpone to a day certain;

f. To decide the issue at hand;

g. To recommit;

h. To amend;

i. To postpone indefinitely

j. The following questions shall be decided without debate:

k. To adjourn

l. To take a recess

m. The question of consideration

n. All questions relating to the priority of business

o. The question of consideration

p. When a motion for reconsideration has been accepted in keeping with

the rules, a bill in respect of that motion shall not be put on the floor

until after three days.

e. To postpone to a day certain;

f. To decide the issue at hand;

g. To recommit;

h. To amend;

i. To postpone indefinitely

j. The following questions shall be decided without debate:

k. To adjourn

l. To take a recess

m. The question of consideration

n. All questions relating to the priority of business

o. The question of consideration

p. When a motion for reconsideration has been accepted in keeping with

the rules, a bill in respect of that motion shall not be put on the floor

until after three days.

12. 12.

When an issue is decided by the House, any legislator who voted on

that issue may, on the same day, or within the next two days immediate

following session days move for reconsideration of the decision; every

motion for reconsideration shall be decided by a majority vote. If the

House refuses to reconsider or the motion for reconsideration is

withdrawn, or if upon reconsideration the House shall affirm its first

decision, no further motion to reconsider shall be entertained. A motion

to reconsider may be laid on the table without affecting the question in

reference. Such action to lay on the table shall be a final disposition of

the motion for reconsideration.

When an issue is decided by the House, any legislator who voted on

that issue may, on the same day, or within the next two days immediate

following session days move for reconsideration of the decision; every

motion for reconsideration shall be decided by a majority vote. If the

House refuses to reconsider or the motion for reconsideration is

withdrawn, or if upon reconsideration the House shall affirm its first

decision, no further motion to reconsider shall be entertained. A motion

to reconsider may be laid on the table without affecting the question in

reference. Such action to lay on the table shall be a final disposition of

the motion for reconsideration.

q. q.

CHAPTER 8

VOTING & VOTING PROCEDURE

RULE 18

VOTE

18.1 No new member of the House who has not yet been qualified shall be

permitted to vote on any issue, but pending his/her qualification he/she may

be permitted by the Speaker to discuss any matter on the floor, to express

his/her view, or to make any suggestion, which might be beneficial to the

House.

18.2 Any member who has a personal or private interest in any bill or question before the House shall disclose same; if disclosure determined by the House to be a conflict of interest, he/she shall recues himself/herself from being appointed on the committee to make recommendation on the issue.

RULE 19VOTING PROCEDURES

19.1 When a question is put, the consensus of the House of Representatives shall be taken by the voices of the Members, and the Speaker shall announce the vote as it appears to him/her by the sound. Sometimes it is difficult for the Speaker to determine, based on the volume of each response, whether more Members shouted ‘’Aye or Nay’’. In such case, vote shall be conducted by a show of hand. When considering a measure by unanimous consent, the Speaker may say “without objection the question is adopted’’ in lieu of a vote. However, any Member may object to that and force a vote.

19.2 If the Speaker is unable to decide by the sound of the voices, or if a member calling for a decision doubts his announcement made thereupon, he/she shall call for a vote or by the show of hands or standing.

19.3 All elections shall be by secret ballot.

18.4 When a bill or the budget is being passed, a treaty or concession is being ratified; the vote shall be taken by roll call.

CHAPTER 8

VOTING & VOTING PROCEDURE

RULE 18

VOTE

18.1 No new member of the House who has not yet been qualified shall be

permitted to vote on any issue, but pending his/her qualification he/she may

be permitted by the Speaker to discuss any matter on the floor, to express

his/her view, or to make any suggestion, which might be beneficial to the

House.

18.2 Any member who has a personal or private interest in any bill or question before the House shall disclose same; if disclosure determined by the House to be a conflict of interest, he/she shall recues himself/herself from being appointed on the committee to make recommendation on the issue.

RULE 19VOTING PROCEDURES

19.1 When a question is put, the consensus of the House of Representatives shall be taken by the voices of the Members, and the Speaker shall announce the vote as it appears to him/her by the sound. Sometimes it is difficult for the Speaker to determine, based on the volume of each response, whether more Members shouted ‘’Aye or Nay’’. In such case, vote shall be conducted by a show of hand. When considering a measure by unanimous consent, the Speaker may say “without objection the question is adopted’’ in lieu of a vote. However, any Member may object to that and force a vote.

19.2 If the Speaker is unable to decide by the sound of the voices, or if a member calling for a decision doubts his announcement made thereupon, he/she shall call for a vote or by the show of hands or standing.

19.3 All elections shall be by secret ballot.

18.4 When a bill or the budget is being passed, a treaty or concession is being ratified; the vote shall be taken by roll call.

13. 13.

RULE 20EXPLANATION OF A SUBJECT MATTER TO ABSENT MEMBER

20.1 Any member of the House of Representatives who was not present when discussion was held but enters before a vote is taken thereon may ask to be enlightened on the subject matter. He/she may thereupon cast his/her vote on the question.

RULE 21SPECIAL SANCTION FOR ABSENTEEISM

21.1 No House member shall stay away from sessions without the expressed approval of the House for a period of more than two weeks; for a period less than two weeks, permission may be sought from the Speaker. Violators shall be penalized in a manner deemed appropriate by the leadership of the House in consultation with plenary.

RULE 20EXPLANATION OF A SUBJECT MATTER TO ABSENT MEMBER

20.1 Any member of the House of Representatives who was not present when discussion was held but enters before a vote is taken thereon may ask to be enlightened on the subject matter. He/she may thereupon cast his/her vote on the question.

RULE 21SPECIAL SANCTION FOR ABSENTEEISM

21.1 No House member shall stay away from sessions without the expressed approval of the House for a period of more than two weeks; for a period less than two weeks, permission may be sought from the Speaker. Violators shall be penalized in a manner deemed appropriate by the leadership of the House in consultation with plenary.

14. 14.

CHAPTER 9DEBATE AND ORDER

RULE 22 DEBATE

22.1 When a member of the Honorable House of Representatives desires to speak, he/she shall raise his/her hand and address the Presiding Officer; and the Presiding Officer shall recognize the member who first addresses him/her. When two or more members rise at about the same time, the Presiding Officer shall name the member who is to speak first. This decision shall be final and not open to debate or appeal. No member shall proceed until he or she is recognized. No member shall interrupt another in a debate without the Speaker’s consent and to obtain such consent, he/she shall first address the Presiding Officer.

22.2 No member shall speak for more than twice on a subject on the same day without permission from the Speaker. The debate shall be relevant, germane and confined to the specific matter which is pending before the House.

22.3 When two or more members rise at the same time to speak, the Presiding Officer shall exercise his/her discretion as to whom he/she shall recognize as the first to speak and this discretion shall not be questioned or challenged by any member of the House.

22.4 No member during a debate shall directly or indirectly by any form or word, impute to another member or members any conduct or motive unworthy of or unbecoming of a member.

22.5 No member during a debate shall refer offensively to any of the counties or ethnic groups in Liberia, or to his/her creed, sex, religion/faith or political party.

22.6 If a member is speaking or otherwise transgresses the rules of the House, any member may call him/her to order. The member who is called to order shall remain standing, unless the Presiding Officer directs otherwise.

CHAPTER 9DEBATE AND ORDER

RULE 22 DEBATE

22.1 When a member of the Honorable House of Representatives desires to speak, he/she shall raise his/her hand and address the Presiding Officer; and the Presiding Officer shall recognize the member who first addresses him/her. When two or more members rise at about the same time, the Presiding Officer shall name the member who is to speak first. This decision shall be final and not open to debate or appeal. No member shall proceed until he or she is recognized. No member shall interrupt another in a debate without the Speaker’s consent and to obtain such consent, he/she shall first address the Presiding Officer.

22.2 No member shall speak for more than twice on a subject on the same day without permission from the Speaker. The debate shall be relevant, germane and confined to the specific matter which is pending before the House.

22.3 When two or more members rise at the same time to speak, the Presiding Officer shall exercise his/her discretion as to whom he/she shall recognize as the first to speak and this discretion shall not be questioned or challenged by any member of the House.

22.4 No member during a debate shall directly or indirectly by any form or word, impute to another member or members any conduct or motive unworthy of or unbecoming of a member.

22.5 No member during a debate shall refer offensively to any of the counties or ethnic groups in Liberia, or to his/her creed, sex, religion/faith or political party.

22.6 If a member is speaking or otherwise transgresses the rules of the House, any member may call him/her to order. The member who is called to order shall remain standing, unless the Presiding Officer directs otherwise.

15. 15.

22.7 While the Presiding Officer is putting a question or addressing the House, no member shall walk out or cross the floor, nor introduce or entertain private conversation.

22.8 While the Honorable House of Representatives is in session, no member is permitted to read newspapers, etc. Also, members shall not have any outside contacts by way of mobile phones and members may not speak to nor listen to another on the other end of the pew.

22.9 Conversations among or between members, while a matter is pending before the body, outside of the subject being discussed, is strongly discouraged. The Presiding Officer will censure violators.

22.10 No alcoholic beverages of any kind will be allowed within the Chambers. Members are also encouraged to abstain from drinking alcohol before and during sessions. Any member found to be intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol during sessions will be made to excuse himself/herself at once from the Chambers by the Presiding Officer. Failure to leave, the Presiding Officer shall ask the Sergeant-At-Arms to escort the member outside the chamber.

22.11 Every member attending session shall be properly attired (a business suit, slack, and jacket “higher heights/French Suit” or African attire). Ladies are especially solicited to dress in a manner depicting their elevated status in society. (All pants are specifically prohibited for ladies, except where a pants-suit is worn and the upper garment hangs below the knees or at least at knee level).

22.12 Members may not introduce or otherwise make reference to visitors or the press while addressing the presiding officer or the House. 22.13 Members of the House may not be addressed by only their names on the House floor. They are to refer to each other in such manner “My distinguished colleague from ….County’’ or “The Gentleman or Gentlewoman from …County” or “Honorable.

RULE 23 QUESTION OF ORDER

23.1 A question of order may be raised at any stage of the proceedings, and unless submitted to the House, it shall be decided by the Presiding Officer without debate, subject to appeal to the House. When an appeal is taken, the Presiding Officer without debate shall decide any subsequent order, which may arise before the decision of such appeal.

22.7 While the Presiding Officer is putting a question or addressing the House, no member shall walk out or cross the floor, nor introduce or entertain private conversation.

22.8 While the Honorable House of Representatives is in session, no member is permitted to read newspapers, etc. Also, members shall not have any outside contacts by way of mobile phones and members may not speak to nor listen to another on the other end of the pew.

22.9 Conversations among or between members, while a matter is pending before the body, outside of the subject being discussed, is strongly discouraged. The Presiding Officer will censure violators.

22.10 No alcoholic beverages of any kind will be allowed within the Chambers. Members are also encouraged to abstain from drinking alcohol before and during sessions. Any member found to be intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol during sessions will be made to excuse himself/herself at once from the Chambers by the Presiding Officer. Failure to leave, the Presiding Officer shall ask the Sergeant-At-Arms to escort the member outside the chamber.

22.11 Every member attending session shall be properly attired (a business suit, slack, and jacket “higher heights/French Suit” or African attire). Ladies are especially solicited to dress in a manner depicting their elevated status in society. (All pants are specifically prohibited for ladies, except where a pants-suit is worn and the upper garment hangs below the knees or at least at knee level).

22.12 Members may not introduce or otherwise make reference to visitors or the press while addressing the presiding officer or the House. 22.13 Members of the House may not be addressed by only their names on the House floor. They are to refer to each other in such manner “My distinguished colleague from ….County’’ or “The Gentleman or Gentlewoman from …County” or “Honorable.

RULE 23 QUESTION OF ORDER

23.1 A question of order may be raised at any stage of the proceedings, and unless submitted to the House, it shall be decided by the Presiding Officer without debate, subject to appeal to the House. When an appeal is taken, the Presiding Officer without debate shall decide any subsequent order, which may arise before the decision of such appeal.

16. 16.

Any appeal emanating there from may be laid on the table without prejudice

to the pending proposition, and thereupon shall be held as affirming the

decision of the Presiding Officer.

23.2 The Presiding Officer may submit any question or order for the decision

of the House. In addition to the Standing Rules of the House, the Robert’s

Rules of Order, Debate and Procedure as laid down in Jefferson’s

Manual shall be observed except where they conflict with these rules and

the constitution of the Republic of Liberia; and in such instance, these Rules

shall take precedence.

Any appeal emanating there from may be laid on the table without prejudice

to the pending proposition, and thereupon shall be held as affirming the

decision of the Presiding Officer.

23.2 The Presiding Officer may submit any question or order for the decision

of the House. In addition to the Standing Rules of the House, the Robert’s

Rules of Order, Debate and Procedure as laid down in Jefferson’s

Manual shall be observed except where they conflict with these rules and

the constitution of the Republic of Liberia; and in such instance, these Rules

shall take precedence.

17. 17.

CHAPTER 10ELECTION AND DUTIES OF

OTHER STAFFS

RULE 24 ELECTION OF OTHER STAFFS

24.1 The election and appointment of the support staff of the Honorable House of Representatives shall reflect geographical and regional balance.

24.2 The House within a week’s time shall elect the Chief Clerk, Deputy Chief Clerk, Sergeant-At-Arms and recommend for employment, each of the following employees for the duration of the Honorable House of Representatives:

RULE 25 DUTIES OF THE CHIEF CLERK

25.1 The Chief Clerk shall perform the following duties and supervise all clerical businesses of the Honorable House of Representatives:

25.2 Ensure that the properties of the House are safeguarded.

25.3 The Chief Clerk is the custodian of the bills, amendments, resolutions and other legislative documents that are in possession of the House.

25.4 Ensure that the Journals and Records of the House are properly kept, and that the Records are deposited with the Achieves of the House immediately after the adjournment of the Honorable House.

25.5 Provide the House Drafting Service with copies of all bills and resolutions introduced in the House and make available all information required for its work.

CHAPTER 10ELECTION AND DUTIES OF

OTHER STAFFS

RULE 24 ELECTION OF OTHER STAFFS

24.1 The election and appointment of the support staff of the Honorable House of Representatives shall reflect geographical and regional balance.

24.2 The House within a week’s time shall elect the Chief Clerk, Deputy Chief Clerk, Sergeant-At-Arms and recommend for employment, each of the following employees for the duration of the Honorable House of Representatives:

RULE 25 DUTIES OF THE CHIEF CLERK

25.1 The Chief Clerk shall perform the following duties and supervise all clerical businesses of the Honorable House of Representatives:

25.2 Ensure that the properties of the House are safeguarded.

25.3 The Chief Clerk is the custodian of the bills, amendments, resolutions and other legislative documents that are in possession of the House.

25.4 Ensure that the Journals and Records of the House are properly kept, and that the Records are deposited with the Achieves of the House immediately after the adjournment of the Honorable House.

25.5 Provide the House Drafting Service with copies of all bills and resolutions introduced in the House and make available all information required for its work.

18. 18.

a.b.c.d.e.f.g.h.I.j.

a.b.c.d.e.f.g.h.I.j.

Engrossing Clerk Enrolling clerk Chaplains Two Stenographers The Doormen Desktop Publisher Reproduction Clerk Filing/Recording Clerk Messengers Recording Clerk

Engrossing Clerk Enrolling clerk Chaplains Two Stenographers The Doormen Desktop Publisher Reproduction Clerk Filing/Recording Clerk Messengers Recording Clerk

25.6 Preside over the House during the elections of the Speaker as provided for in Rule 17 above.

25.7 Carry out all directives address to him/her by the House through the Presiding Officer.

25.8 Prepare and distribute at the beginning of every session a list of reports required to be made to the House.

25.9 Attest and affix the seal of the House to all writs, warrants, subpoenas and formal documents issued by the (plenary) of the House. The Chief Clerk shall not permit a bill, amendment, resolution or other legislative document to be removed from the Chief Clerk’s custodian except in the course of regular business of the House. A bill, amendment, resolution or other legislative document in the Chief Clerk’s custody shall be available for public inspection.

25.9 Receive all communications, including but not limited to messages from the President and the Senate when the House is not in session.

25.10 Manage and supervise, in consultation with the committee on Rules, Order and Administration the office of any deceased, resigned, or expelled member until a successor is elected.

25.11 Under the supervision of the Speaker, prepares and distributes the agenda at the beginning of every session.

RULE 26DUTIES OF OTHER STAFFS

26.1 The Deputy Chief Clerk shall assist the Chief Clerk in the smooth operations of the staff of the House. In the absence of the Chief Clerk, he/she shall perform all duties and responsibilities as appertained to the office of the Chief Clerk.

26.2 The Engrossing Clerk shall properly engross all bills and other documents. He/she shall cooperate with the Legislative Drafting Service in making available information required for the House. He/she shall also hold in his custody all documents turned over to him/her by the Chief Clerk for the Archives.

26.3 The Enrolling Clerk shall make a correct copy in hand writing of all bills which have originated in the House and which have been passed by the House and shall see that such copy is put in the Archives of the House. He/she shall prepare or cause to be prepared the official copies provided there from.

25.6 Preside over the House during the elections of the Speaker as provided for in Rule 17 above.

25.7 Carry out all directives address to him/her by the House through the Presiding Officer.

25.8 Prepare and distribute at the beginning of every session a list of reports required to be made to the House.

25.9 Attest and affix the seal of the House to all writs, warrants, subpoenas and formal documents issued by the (plenary) of the House. The Chief Clerk shall not permit a bill, amendment, resolution or other legislative document to be removed from the Chief Clerk’s custodian except in the course of regular business of the House. A bill, amendment, resolution or other legislative document in the Chief Clerk’s custody shall be available for public inspection.

25.9 Receive all communications, including but not limited to messages from the President and the Senate when the House is not in session.

25.10 Manage and supervise, in consultation with the committee on Rules, Order and Administration the office of any deceased, resigned, or expelled member until a successor is elected.

25.11 Under the supervision of the Speaker, prepares and distributes the agenda at the beginning of every session.

RULE 26DUTIES OF OTHER STAFFS

26.1 The Deputy Chief Clerk shall assist the Chief Clerk in the smooth operations of the staff of the House. In the absence of the Chief Clerk, he/she shall perform all duties and responsibilities as appertained to the office of the Chief Clerk.

26.2 The Engrossing Clerk shall properly engross all bills and other documents. He/she shall cooperate with the Legislative Drafting Service in making available information required for the House. He/she shall also hold in his custody all documents turned over to him/her by the Chief Clerk for the Archives.

26.3 The Enrolling Clerk shall make a correct copy in hand writing of all bills which have originated in the House and which have been passed by the House and shall see that such copy is put in the Archives of the House. He/she shall prepare or cause to be prepared the official copies provided there from.

19. 19.

He/she shall ensure that the Legislative Drafting Service verifies the official

copy before processing it to the Executive Committee for transmittal to the

President. He/she shall also call the roll of members (and staff) of the House

and, together with the Typist, be responsible for preparing documents.

He/she shall perform such other duties as may be assigned him/her by the

Speaker, Deputy Speaker or the Chief Clerk.

26.4 The Chaplain shall open each day’s proceedings with prayers. The

Assistant Chaplain shall act in the absence of the Chaplain.

26.5 The Sergeant-At-Arms: shall be the chief police officer; under the

direction of the Presiding Officer, the Sergeant-At-arms shall maintain

good order in the hall, gallery, corridors, committee rooms, and on the floor

of the House and in the adjoining rooms while the House is in sessions.

He/she shall dispatch all correspondence and shall sign for and receive all

documents and other items coming to the House before turning them over to

the Chief Clerk. He/she shall supervise all Messengers and Doorkeepers.

He shall be in attendance upon the Speaker, Deputy Speaker or Chief Clerk

at all official functions; shall strictly enforce the rules regulating admission

of persons to the floor of the House; shall maintain good order in the

corridor, committee rooms, offices, and other areas under the exclusive use

and control of the House; shall serve all subpoenas and warrants issued by

the House or any duly authorized officer or committee; and on an order for a

call of the House, shall forthwith proceed to arrest and bring those subpoena

into the House.

26.6 The Desktop Publishers shall type all documents required for the business of the Honorable House of Representatives, or any of its committees. They shall also perform such other duties as may be assigned them by the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, or the Chief clerk.

26.7 The Stenographers shall take stenographic notes of the deliberations of the House and transcribe same for adoption at the session on the subsequent day. Failure of the Stenographers to take proper care in keeping the daily records shall subject them to be punished be punished by the House in such manner, as it may deem appropriate. A Stenographer engaged in keeping the stenographic records shall assist the Chief Clerk in preparation of the correspondence of the House. The Stenographers shall perform such other duties as may be assigned them by the Speaker, Deputy Speaker or the Chief Clerk. He/she shall use modern equipment for the feasibility of records.

He/she shall ensure that the Legislative Drafting Service verifies the official

copy before processing it to the Executive Committee for transmittal to the

President. He/she shall also call the roll of members (and staff) of the House

and, together with the Typist, be responsible for preparing documents.

He/she shall perform such other duties as may be assigned him/her by the

Speaker, Deputy Speaker or the Chief Clerk.

26.4 The Chaplain shall open each day’s proceedings with prayers. The

Assistant Chaplain shall act in the absence of the Chaplain.

26.5 The Sergeant-At-Arms: shall be the chief police officer; under the

direction of the Presiding Officer, the Sergeant-At-arms shall maintain

good order in the hall, gallery, corridors, committee rooms, and on the floor

of the House and in the adjoining rooms while the House is in sessions.

He/she shall dispatch all correspondence and shall sign for and receive all

documents and other items coming to the House before turning them over to

the Chief Clerk. He/she shall supervise all Messengers and Doorkeepers.

He shall be in attendance upon the Speaker, Deputy Speaker or Chief Clerk

at all official functions; shall strictly enforce the rules regulating admission

of persons to the floor of the House; shall maintain good order in the

corridor, committee rooms, offices, and other areas under the exclusive use

and control of the House; shall serve all subpoenas and warrants issued by

the House or any duly authorized officer or committee; and on an order for a

call of the House, shall forthwith proceed to arrest and bring those subpoena

into the House.

26.6 The Desktop Publishers shall type all documents required for the business of the Honorable House of Representatives, or any of its committees. They shall also perform such other duties as may be assigned them by the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, or the Chief clerk.

26.7 The Stenographers shall take stenographic notes of the deliberations of the House and transcribe same for adoption at the session on the subsequent day. Failure of the Stenographers to take proper care in keeping the daily records shall subject them to be punished be punished by the House in such manner, as it may deem appropriate. A Stenographer engaged in keeping the stenographic records shall assist the Chief Clerk in preparation of the correspondence of the House. The Stenographers shall perform such other duties as may be assigned them by the Speaker, Deputy Speaker or the Chief Clerk. He/she shall use modern equipment for the feasibility of records.

20. 20.

26.8 The Reproduction Clerk shall help the Desktop Publisher to cut the stencils and mimeograph all records of the House and all other documents turn over to him/her for that purpose by the Chief Clerk. He/she shall perform such other duties as may be assigned to him/her by the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, or the Chief Clerk. He/she shall perform the functions of a photocopier/Desktop Publisher to meet the demands of current realities.

26.9 The Record and Filing Clerk shall be responsible for filing all documents turned over to him/her. He/she shall record in a proper book provided for the purpose of all Journals of the House, which have been adopted to form a part of the Archives. He/she shall also perform such other duties as may be assigned him/her by the Speaker, Deputy Speaker or the Chief Clerk.

26.10 The Director of Maintenance shall be responsible for keeping in a clean and orderly condition the facilities of the Capitol Building and, with the cooperation of the Chief Clerk, shall be responsible for the care and safety of the properties of the House. They shall be under the direct supervision of the chairman on the committee on Rules, Order and Administration and report all irregularities or disrepair of any property that they observe.

26.11 The Doorkeepers shall enforce strictly the rules relating to the privileges and use of the hall. They shall allow no person to enter the chambers of the House during its sitting and 15 minutes before the hour of the meeting of the House each day. They shall ensure that the floor is cleared of all persons except those privileged to remain, and kept so until ten (10) minutes after adjournment. They shall act in the absence of the Sergeant-At-Arms. No member shall enter or leave the hall during devotion.

RULE 27LIST OF THE SPEAKER’S STAFF

27.1 The Speaker’s staff shall consist of the following:

Chief of Office Staff - 1 Adm. Assistant - 2 Special Assistant - 1 Appointment Secretary - 1 Executive Secretary - 1 Secretary - 1 Press Secretary - 1 Receptionist - 2 Page - 3 Mimeographer - 1 Desktop Publisher - 1

26.8 The Reproduction Clerk shall help the Desktop Publisher to cut the stencils and mimeograph all records of the House and all other documents turn over to him/her for that purpose by the Chief Clerk. He/she shall perform such other duties as may be assigned to him/her by the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, or the Chief Clerk. He/she shall perform the functions of a photocopier/Desktop Publisher to meet the demands of current realities.

26.9 The Record and Filing Clerk shall be responsible for filing all documents turned over to him/her. He/she shall record in a proper book provided for the purpose of all Journals of the House, which have been adopted to form a part of the Archives. He/she shall also perform such other duties as may be assigned him/her by the Speaker, Deputy Speaker or the Chief Clerk.

26.10 The Director of Maintenance shall be responsible for keeping in a clean and orderly condition the facilities of the Capitol Building and, with the cooperation of the Chief Clerk, shall be responsible for the care and safety of the properties of the House. They shall be under the direct supervision of the chairman on the committee on Rules, Order and Administration and report all irregularities or disrepair of any property that they observe.

26.11 The Doorkeepers shall enforce strictly the rules relating to the privileges and use of the hall. They shall allow no person to enter the chambers of the House during its sitting and 15 minutes before the hour of the meeting of the House each day. They shall ensure that the floor is cleared of all persons except those privileged to remain, and kept so until ten (10) minutes after adjournment. They shall act in the absence of the Sergeant-At-Arms. No member shall enter or leave the hall during devotion.

RULE 27LIST OF THE SPEAKER’S STAFF

27.1 The Speaker’s staff shall consist of the following:

Chief of Office Staff - 1 Adm. Assistant - 2 Special Assistant - 1 Appointment Secretary - 1 Executive Secretary - 1 Secretary - 1 Press Secretary - 1 Receptionist - 2 Page - 3 Mimeographer - 1 Desktop Publisher - 1

21. 21.

a.b.c.d.e.f.g.h.I.j.k.

a.b.c.d.e.f.g.h.I.j.k.

Security - 4

Yard Boy - 3

Cooks - 2

Steward - 1

Driver (Chauffeur) - 4

RULE 28

LIST OF THE DEPUTY SPEAKER STAFF

28.1 The Deputy Speaker’s staff shall consist of the following:

a. Chief of Office Staff - 1

b. Adm. Assistant - 1

c. Special Assistant - 1

d. Appointment Secretary - 1

e. Executive Secretary - 1

f. Secretary - 1

g. Receptionists - 2

h. Page - 2

i. Mimeographer - 1

j. Security - 2

k. Yard Boy - 2

l. Cooks - 2

m. Steward - 1

n. Driver (Chauffeur) - 2

RULE 29

LIST OF HONORABLE MEMBERS’ STAFF

29.1 The staff of a member shall consist of the following:

a. Chief of Office Staff - 1

b. Adm. Assistant - 1

c. Special Assistant - 1

d. Executive Secretary - 1

e. Page - 1

Security - 4

Yard Boy - 3

Cooks - 2

Steward - 1

Driver (Chauffeur) - 4

RULE 28

LIST OF THE DEPUTY SPEAKER STAFF

28.1 The Deputy Speaker’s staff shall consist of the following:

a. Chief of Office Staff - 1

b. Adm. Assistant - 1

c. Special Assistant - 1

d. Appointment Secretary - 1

e. Executive Secretary - 1

f. Secretary - 1

g. Receptionists - 2

h. Page - 2

i. Mimeographer - 1

j. Security - 2

k. Yard Boy - 2

l. Cooks - 2

m. Steward - 1

n. Driver (Chauffeur) - 2

RULE 29

LIST OF HONORABLE MEMBERS’ STAFF

29.1 The staff of a member shall consist of the following:

a. Chief of Office Staff - 1

b. Adm. Assistant - 1

c. Special Assistant - 1

d. Executive Secretary - 1

e. Page - 1

22. 22.

l.

m.

n.

o.

p.

l.

m.

n.

o.

p.

f. Secretary - 1 g. Filing Clerk - 1 h. Receptionist - 1 i. Yard Boy - 1 j. Cook - 1 k. Security - 2 l. Resource Officer - 1

f. Secretary - 1 g. Filing Clerk - 1 h. Receptionist - 1 i. Yard Boy - 1 j. Cook - 1 k. Security - 2 l. Resource Officer - 1

23. 23.

CHAPTER 11BILLS AND PETITIONS

RULE 30DEFINITION OF BILL

30.1 Whenever the word “bill” is used in these Rules, it shall include but not be limited to constitutional amendments and resolutions.

RULE 31READING OF BILLS

31.1 Every bill shall be read at length on three different session days. No bill shall become law unless it has been so read. The House may unanimously direct that, and the Speaker shall give notice at each reading, whether the first shall constitute the second and third readings.

31.2 Bills shall be read for the first time in order of presentation, given a number and printed copies of same shall be made available to Honorable Members the next legislative day. Action on a bill after reading for the first time shall be taken immediately unless the House moves to take a recess; it shall be in order to move to have the House continue in session in order to take action on such bill.

31.3 Action on a bill after reading shall be taken on a motion, to adopt, to remain on the Speaker’s desk, to take for time indefinite, or to commit. No member shall debate any such motion unless he/she desires to defeat the bill.

31.4 When a Bill has been read the first time, the Bill shall stand committed to a Standing Committee of the House by the Speaker unless the Plenary otherwise directs to the contrary.

31.5 When a Bill has been reported from the Committee after public hearings and mark-up by the Committee, the Bill shall be considered in the Committee of the Whole House during the Second Reading of the Bill.

31.6 Bills read for the second time shall be subject to amendments, one part at a time.

31.7 Bills adopted on Third Reading shall be ordered engrossed.

31.8 When a Bill originating in the House has been read the Third time, a printed copy of it signed by the Chief Clerk and endorsed by the Speaker, shall be forwarded by the Chief Clerk of the House to the Secretary of Senate together with a message desiring concurrence of the Senate.

31.9 When a Bill which originated in the Senate has been read the Third time, the Chief Clerk shall either:

CHAPTER 11BILLS AND PETITIONS

RULE 30DEFINITION OF BILL

30.1 Whenever the word “bill” is used in these Rules, it shall include but not be limited to constitutional amendments and resolutions.

RULE 31READING OF BILLS

31.1 Every bill shall be read at length on three different session days. No bill shall become law unless it has been so read. The House may unanimously direct that, and the Speaker shall give notice at each reading, whether the first shall constitute the second and third readings.

31.2 Bills shall be read for the first time in order of presentation, given a number and printed copies of same shall be made available to Honorable Members the next legislative day. Action on a bill after reading for the first time shall be taken immediately unless the House moves to take a recess; it shall be in order to move to have the House continue in session in order to take action on such bill.

31.3 Action on a bill after reading shall be taken on a motion, to adopt, to remain on the Speaker’s desk, to take for time indefinite, or to commit. No member shall debate any such motion unless he/she desires to defeat the bill.

31.4 When a Bill has been read the first time, the Bill shall stand committed to a Standing Committee of the House by the Speaker unless the Plenary otherwise directs to the contrary.

31.5 When a Bill has been reported from the Committee after public hearings and mark-up by the Committee, the Bill shall be considered in the Committee of the Whole House during the Second Reading of the Bill.

31.6 Bills read for the second time shall be subject to amendments, one part at a time.

31.7 Bills adopted on Third Reading shall be ordered engrossed.

31.8 When a Bill originating in the House has been read the Third time, a printed copy of it signed by the Chief Clerk and endorsed by the Speaker, shall be forwarded by the Chief Clerk of the House to the Secretary of Senate together with a message desiring concurrence of the Senate.

31.9 When a Bill which originated in the Senate has been read the Third time, the Chief Clerk shall either:

24. 24.

a. Retain the Bill and send a message to the Senate “That the House of Representatives has agreed to the Bill without amendment”, or

b. Cause any amendment or amendments that may have been made to it by the House of Representatives to be entered in the original copy of the Bill received from the Senate, which copy, signed by the Chief Clerk and endorsed by the Speaker, shall then be returned to the Senate desiring the concurrence of the Senate in the amendment or amendments made by the House of Representatives.

RULE 32MEETING OF CONFERENCE COMMITTEE

32.1 When a Bill passed by the House and sent to the Senate for concurrence is sent back to the House with Senate amendments, the House shall resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole House which shall proceed to determine if the Senate amendment (s) are acceptable.

32.2 If the Senate amendments are not acceptable to the House, then the Conference Committee of the House and Senate shall meet.

32.3 Selected Members of the House including some Members of the Committee that considered the Bill shall represent the House in the Conference Committee.

32.4 The Conference Committee shall deliberate only on areas of disagreement between the House and the Senate. The Conference Committee shall not insert in its report matter not committed to it by either the House or Senate, nor shall it be in order to strike out from the Bill matter agreed to by the House and Senate.

32.5 The sitting of the Conference Committee may be opened or closed to the public depending on the subject matter under discussion and the majority view of the Members. RULE 33ASSENT33.1: When a Bill has been passed by the House and the Senate with or without amendments, a clean copy certified by the Chief Clerk of the House, the Secretary of the Senate, signed by the Speaker and President Pro-Tempore of the Senate shall be delivered to the Executive Committee of the House for onward transmittal to the President of the Republic for assent.

33.2 Where the President of the Republic withholds his/her assent; recourse shall be made to Article 35 of the Constitution of the Republic of Liberia.

RULE 34PROCEDURE ON BILLS

34.1 House members having bills, petitions, memorials or resolutions to present shall deliver them to the Chief Clerk of the House.

a. Retain the Bill and send a message to the Senate “That the House of Representatives has agreed to the Bill without amendment”, or

b. Cause any amendment or amendments that may have been made to it by the House of Representatives to be entered in the original copy of the Bill received from the Senate, which copy, signed by the Chief Clerk and endorsed by the Speaker, shall then be returned to the Senate desiring the concurrence of the Senate in the amendment or amendments made by the House of Representatives.

RULE 32MEETING OF CONFERENCE COMMITTEE

32.1 When a Bill passed by the House and sent to the Senate for concurrence is sent back to the House with Senate amendments, the House shall resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole House which shall proceed to determine if the Senate amendment (s) are acceptable.

32.2 If the Senate amendments are not acceptable to the House, then the Conference Committee of the House and Senate shall meet.

32.3 Selected Members of the House including some Members of the Committee that considered the Bill shall represent the House in the Conference Committee.

32.4 The Conference Committee shall deliberate only on areas of disagreement between the House and the Senate. The Conference Committee shall not insert in its report matter not committed to it by either the House or Senate, nor shall it be in order to strike out from the Bill matter agreed to by the House and Senate.

32.5 The sitting of the Conference Committee may be opened or closed to the public depending on the subject matter under discussion and the majority view of the Members. RULE 33ASSENT33.1: When a Bill has been passed by the House and the Senate with or without amendments, a clean copy certified by the Chief Clerk of the House, the Secretary of the Senate, signed by the Speaker and President Pro-Tempore of the Senate shall be delivered to the Executive Committee of the House for onward transmittal to the President of the Republic for assent.

33.2 Where the President of the Republic withholds his/her assent; recourse shall be made to Article 35 of the Constitution of the Republic of Liberia.

RULE 34PROCEDURE ON BILLS

34.1 House members having bills, petitions, memorials or resolutions to present shall deliver them to the Chief Clerk of the House.

25. 25.

34.2 Only House members, who have already been qualified to hold office and not under suspension from office, shall sponsor or introduce to the House, matters such as bills and resolutions.

RULE 35PROCEDURE ON FINANCIAL BILLS (BUDGET)

35.1 During each year, there shall be introduced into the House, an Appropriation Bill which shall contain the estimated financial requirements for expenditure on revenue accounts on all the services of the government for the succeeding financial year. The details of these financial requirements shall be contained in the Estimates which shall be presented at the same time.

35.2 On presentation, the Bill shall be deemed to have been read the first time; it shall stand committed to the Ways, Means and Finance Committee. The Standing Committees of the House shall, for this purpose, be deemed to be sub-Committees of the Ways, Means and Finance Committee and shall consider estimates for the Ministries, Departments and Agencies which come under their oversight charge of duties.

35.3 After consideration, the sub-Committees shall report to the Ways, Means and Finance Committee. The Ways, Means and Finance Committee after deliberating on the reports of the Sub-Committees and the views of Members during the Second Reading debates; shall then report to the Committee of the Whole House to be known as “Committee of Supply”.

35.4 The Clauses of an Appropriation bill or a Supplementary Appropriation bill shall stand postponed until after the consideration of any schedule to such bill; provided that before the passage of the Appropriations Bill, the details of the Budget (Compendium and Schedule) shall be presented on the floor of the House along with the Appropriations Bill.

35.5 On the consideration of the first schedule, the Chairman shall call the title of each Head of Expenditure in turn and shall propose the question “That the sum……………Dollars for Head…………….stand part of the schedule”.

35.6 When all amendments to a sub-head or item moved by any Member have been disposed of, no further amendment or debate on the same shall be allowed. The Speaker shall propose the question “That the sum of ………………….Dollars for Head ……….. stand part of the schedule.

35.7 When the Appropriation Bill has passed the Committee of Supply, the Committee on Ways, Means and Finance shall as soon as practicable prepare and submit a summary of all amendments agreed to by the House.

34.2 Only House members, who have already been qualified to hold office and not under suspension from office, shall sponsor or introduce to the House, matters such as bills and resolutions.

RULE 35PROCEDURE ON FINANCIAL BILLS (BUDGET)

35.1 During each year, there shall be introduced into the House, an Appropriation Bill which shall contain the estimated financial requirements for expenditure on revenue accounts on all the services of the government for the succeeding financial year. The details of these financial requirements shall be contained in the Estimates which shall be presented at the same time.

35.2 On presentation, the Bill shall be deemed to have been read the first time; it shall stand committed to the Ways, Means and Finance Committee. The Standing Committees of the House shall, for this purpose, be deemed to be sub-Committees of the Ways, Means and Finance Committee and shall consider estimates for the Ministries, Departments and Agencies which come under their oversight charge of duties.

35.3 After consideration, the sub-Committees shall report to the Ways, Means and Finance Committee. The Ways, Means and Finance Committee after deliberating on the reports of the Sub-Committees and the views of Members during the Second Reading debates; shall then report to the Committee of the Whole House to be known as “Committee of Supply”.

35.4 The Clauses of an Appropriation bill or a Supplementary Appropriation bill shall stand postponed until after the consideration of any schedule to such bill; provided that before the passage of the Appropriations Bill, the details of the Budget (Compendium and Schedule) shall be presented on the floor of the House along with the Appropriations Bill.

35.5 On the consideration of the first schedule, the Chairman shall call the title of each Head of Expenditure in turn and shall propose the question “That the sum……………Dollars for Head…………….stand part of the schedule”.

35.6 When all amendments to a sub-head or item moved by any Member have been disposed of, no further amendment or debate on the same shall be allowed. The Speaker shall propose the question “That the sum of ………………….Dollars for Head ……….. stand part of the schedule.

35.7 When the Appropriation Bill has passed the Committee of Supply, the Committee on Ways, Means and Finance shall as soon as practicable prepare and submit a summary of all amendments agreed to by the House.

26. 26.

The report shall also show clearly the total amount approved for each Ministry, Department or Agency. Upon approval of the Committee’s report the Member in charge shall move the Third Reading of the Bill forthwith which motion shall not require to be seconded and shall be decided without amendment or debate.

35.8 After the Third Reading, the laid down procedures for bills shall be followed.

RULE 36 ANNOUNCEMENT OF MEMBERS’ BILLS

36.1 Any member who intends to present a bill shall announce such in session on the day before the bill is to be presented and shall at such time deliver a copy of the caption to the Chief clerk, to be included in the day’s Journal.

RULE 37FORMS OF BILLS

37.1 Every bill shall be drafted in proper form and shall express clearly any substantive changes in the law, which it intends to affect. A bill modifying or repealing any provision of any statutes or consisting of materials which should be added to the code shall be so framed as to amend the code in the appropriate place and manner.

RULE 38TITLE OF BILLS

38.1 Every bill shall bear a concise title, which shall fairly describe the subject matter of the proposed statute. No bill or resolution shall embrace more than one subject, which shall be expressed in its title.

RULE 39DISCHARGE PETITION

39.1 If a bill has been before a Standing Committee for thirty (30) days, any member of the House may issue a notification to discharge it.

39.2 Having issued said notification; the Chief Clerk should prepare a discharge petition for members to sign. On the second session day after the issuance of the notification, the Chief Clerk shall read the list of all members who signed the petition. If a simple majority is obtained in favor of the discharge petition, the Speaker shall assign the bill on the next session day following reading of the list. Discharge petition may cover only a single introduced measure and not multiple bills.

The report shall also show clearly the total amount approved for each Ministry, Department or Agency. Upon approval of the Committee’s report the Member in charge shall move the Third Reading of the Bill forthwith which motion shall not require to be seconded and shall be decided without amendment or debate.

35.8 After the Third Reading, the laid down procedures for bills shall be followed.

RULE 36 ANNOUNCEMENT OF MEMBERS’ BILLS

36.1 Any member who intends to present a bill shall announce such in session on the day before the bill is to be presented and shall at such time deliver a copy of the caption to the Chief clerk, to be included in the day’s Journal.

RULE 37FORMS OF BILLS

37.1 Every bill shall be drafted in proper form and shall express clearly any substantive changes in the law, which it intends to affect. A bill modifying or repealing any provision of any statutes or consisting of materials which should be added to the code shall be so framed as to amend the code in the appropriate place and manner.

RULE 38TITLE OF BILLS

38.1 Every bill shall bear a concise title, which shall fairly describe the subject matter of the proposed statute. No bill or resolution shall embrace more than one subject, which shall be expressed in its title.

RULE 39DISCHARGE PETITION

39.1 If a bill has been before a Standing Committee for thirty (30) days, any member of the House may issue a notification to discharge it.

39.2 Having issued said notification; the Chief Clerk should prepare a discharge petition for members to sign. On the second session day after the issuance of the notification, the Chief Clerk shall read the list of all members who signed the petition. If a simple majority is obtained in favor of the discharge petition, the Speaker shall assign the bill on the next session day following reading of the list. Discharge petition may cover only a single introduced measure and not multiple bills.

27. 27.

CHAPTER 12HOUSE CODE OF CONDUCT

RULE 40HONESTY AND TRANSPARENCY

40.1 Without prejudice to the provisions of this rule, every member shall be honest and transparent at any time.

40.2 No member may introduce false information or unsubstantiated matter, pretending that it is true.

RULE 41USING POWER PROPERLY

41.1 No Member shall misuse the power given to him/her by law.

41.2 Members shall not use their powers and duties for his/her own advantage or for committing acts of partiality, but for the protection of the interest of the public and citizens in a just manner.

RULE 42PRESTIGE AND DIGNITY OF THE HOUSE

42.1 Every member shall, at any place, keep the prestige and dignity of the House and refrain from undesirable acts.

42.2 No Member shall insult, abuse or harass other persons within the confines of the House, or cause disturbance to the activities of the House.

RULE 43 CONFIDENTIALITY

43.1 Subject to the principle of transparency in the performance of their duties, Members shall keep matters confidential under the following conditions:

43.2 Every Member shall keep confidential, matters that have come to his/her knowledge by virtue of his/her work or any other reason, and those matters must be kept secret because they are likely to jeopardize government or public interest, peace and security.

43.3 No Member shall reveal what has been discussed in a closed meeting before it is made public through the relevant procedure.

CHAPTER 12HOUSE CODE OF CONDUCT

RULE 40HONESTY AND TRANSPARENCY

40.1 Without prejudice to the provisions of this rule, every member shall be honest and transparent at any time.

40.2 No member may introduce false information or unsubstantiated matter, pretending that it is true.

RULE 41USING POWER PROPERLY

41.1 No Member shall misuse the power given to him/her by law.

41.2 Members shall not use their powers and duties for his/her own advantage or for committing acts of partiality, but for the protection of the interest of the public and citizens in a just manner.

RULE 42PRESTIGE AND DIGNITY OF THE HOUSE

42.1 Every member shall, at any place, keep the prestige and dignity of the House and refrain from undesirable acts.

42.2 No Member shall insult, abuse or harass other persons within the confines of the House, or cause disturbance to the activities of the House.

RULE 43 CONFIDENTIALITY

43.1 Subject to the principle of transparency in the performance of their duties, Members shall keep matters confidential under the following conditions:

43.2 Every Member shall keep confidential, matters that have come to his/her knowledge by virtue of his/her work or any other reason, and those matters must be kept secret because they are likely to jeopardize government or public interest, peace and security.

43.3 No Member shall reveal what has been discussed in a closed meeting before it is made public through the relevant procedure.

28. 28.

43.4 Every committee Member shall keep confidential any matter being considered by a committee and required to be kept secret until it is reported to the House.

RULE 44BEING FREE FROM CORRUPTION

44.1 Members are expected to fight corruption effectively by being free from corrupt practices and opposing corruption and set example in any anti-corruption struggle.

RULE 45CONFLICT OF INTEREST

45.1 Where a member elected or delegated by the House to perform a certain task, finds that the case at hand is related to his/her interest or that of a close relative, he/she shall withdraw from handling the case after notifying the House, the Speaker or the committee of which he/she is a member.

45.2 No member may be employed or engaged himself/herself in an occupation which is incompatible with the responsibilities vested on him/her or is in breach of the trust given to him/her or is damaging to the prestige and dignity of the House.

43.4 Every committee Member shall keep confidential any matter being considered by a committee and required to be kept secret until it is reported to the House.

RULE 44BEING FREE FROM CORRUPTION

44.1 Members are expected to fight corruption effectively by being free from corrupt practices and opposing corruption and set example in any anti-corruption struggle.

RULE 45CONFLICT OF INTEREST

45.1 Where a member elected or delegated by the House to perform a certain task, finds that the case at hand is related to his/her interest or that of a close relative, he/she shall withdraw from handling the case after notifying the House, the Speaker or the committee of which he/she is a member.

45.2 No member may be employed or engaged himself/herself in an occupation which is incompatible with the responsibilities vested on him/her or is in breach of the trust given to him/her or is damaging to the prestige and dignity of the House.

29. 29.

CHAPTER 13OBSERVANCE OF THE ETHICS OF THE HOUSE

RULE 46GENERAL PROVISION

46.1 Subject to the provisions laid down in other laws, the observance of the rights and code of conduct of members shall be implemented in accordance with what has been specified under this chapter.

RULE 47 THE OBSERVANCE OF RIGHTS

47.1 Any member or ex-member who claims that his/her rights have been violated or that his//her rights should be respected, may submit his/her request in writing to the Speaker or to the committee on Rules and Order.

47.2 Notwithstanding, the provision of Article 42 of the Constitution, where the question of observing the right is the concern of the majority of the members of the House, the request shall be presented to the House for consideration.

47.3 The committee to which the request is submitted shall present its opinion to the Speaker after making an inquiry into the matter.

47.4 The Speaker, to whom the matter has been submitted in accordance with Article 39.1 above, shall pass the necessary administrative decision verifying through various mechanisms; or present the matter to the House for its decision.

RULE 48OBSERVING THE ETHICS

48.1 The House shall take disciplinary measures against any member who violates or fails to comply with the House ethics and procedure specified in this rule.

48.2 Where any member is aware of the existence of a breach of the code of conduct and procedure, he/she may request the House to take the necessary disciplinary measures against any member who is alleged to have committed the breach.

48.3 The request to be presented pursuant to Chapter XI of this rule shall be in writing and submitted to the Speaker together with the evidence.

48.4 The Speaker shall refer the matter to the committee on Rules and Order; The House after examining the report and recommendation submitted by that committee, shall render its decision; and the decision shall be final.

CHAPTER 13OBSERVANCE OF THE ETHICS OF THE HOUSE

RULE 46GENERAL PROVISION

46.1 Subject to the provisions laid down in other laws, the observance of the rights and code of conduct of members shall be implemented in accordance with what has been specified under this chapter.

RULE 47 THE OBSERVANCE OF RIGHTS

47.1 Any member or ex-member who claims that his/her rights have been violated or that his//her rights should be respected, may submit his/her request in writing to the Speaker or to the committee on Rules and Order.

47.2 Notwithstanding, the provision of Article 42 of the Constitution, where the question of observing the right is the concern of the majority of the members of the House, the request shall be presented to the House for consideration.

47.3 The committee to which the request is submitted shall present its opinion to the Speaker after making an inquiry into the matter.

47.4 The Speaker, to whom the matter has been submitted in accordance with Article 39.1 above, shall pass the necessary administrative decision verifying through various mechanisms; or present the matter to the House for its decision.

RULE 48OBSERVING THE ETHICS

48.1 The House shall take disciplinary measures against any member who violates or fails to comply with the House ethics and procedure specified in this rule.

48.2 Where any member is aware of the existence of a breach of the code of conduct and procedure, he/she may request the House to take the necessary disciplinary measures against any member who is alleged to have committed the breach.

48.3 The request to be presented pursuant to Chapter XI of this rule shall be in writing and submitted to the Speaker together with the evidence.

48.4 The Speaker shall refer the matter to the committee on Rules and Order; The House after examining the report and recommendation submitted by that committee, shall render its decision; and the decision shall be final.

30. 30.

48.5 Any member, against whom the request, which demands the taking of disciplinary step, is presented, has the right to due process of law.

48.6 Any request for disciplinary measure to be taken shall be barred after a year from the date of the alleged violation of the code of conduct; the request shall not be transferred to the next term of the House.

48.7 The House may, according to the circumstances and degree of breach, take the following measures:

a. it may give an oral warning; b. it may give a written warning c. it may suspend a member for not more than 30 days of meeting, stop the payment of salary and allowances due him/her for the

days of suspension, as the case may be; d. it may expel a member from the House where the breach is very

serious or where it is committed repeatedly.

48.5 Any member, against whom the request, which demands the taking of disciplinary step, is presented, has the right to due process of law.

48.6 Any request for disciplinary measure to be taken shall be barred after a year from the date of the alleged violation of the code of conduct; the request shall not be transferred to the next term of the House.

48.7 The House may, according to the circumstances and degree of breach, take the following measures:

a. it may give an oral warning; b. it may give a written warning c. it may suspend a member for not more than 30 days of meeting, stop the payment of salary and allowances due him/her for the

days of suspension, as the case may be; d. it may expel a member from the House where the breach is very

serious or where it is committed repeatedly.

31. 31.

CHAPTER 14 LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEES

RULE 49GENERAL PROVISION

49.1 Unless otherwise laid down in these rules, committees shall be governed by the provisions of this chapter.

RULE 50 COMMITTEE POWER

50.1 Each committee, including any special committee, shall have the power to inspect, examine, inquire into, and pass upon at least one report at each session on all matters within its jurisdiction and to hold such hearings and investigation, which the committee may find necessary.

50.2 Each committee of the House including any sub-committee is authorized to hold hearings, to sit and act at such times and places during sessions, recesses and adjourned periods of the House, to require by subpoena or otherwise the attendance of such witnesses and the production of such correspondence, books, papers and documents as required. Each committee may conduct investigations into any matter within its jurisdiction and may report such hearings as may be heard by it.

50.3 Each such committee shall, as far as practicable, require all witness swearing before it to file in advance written statements of their proposed testimony and to limit oral presentation to brief summaries of testimony. The staff of each committee shall prepare a digest of such statements for the use of Committee members.

50.4 Any person having been summoned as a witness by the authority of the House to give testimony or to produce papers upon any matter under inquiry before the House or any committee established by the House, who willfully makes, defaults, or who, having appeared, refuses to answer any question pertinent to the question under inquiry, shall be guilty of contempt, punishable by a fine of not less than L$500.00 and not more than L$5,000.00 and or imprisonment in a common jail for a period not exceeding the duration of session for the House

RULE 51 OVERSIGHT RESPONSIBILITIES OF COMMITTEES

51.1 In addition to the functions and jurisdictions outlined in this rule, committees shall exercise legislative oversight with respect to the following:

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CHAPTER 14 LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEES

RULE 49GENERAL PROVISION

49.1 Unless otherwise laid down in these rules, committees shall be governed by the provisions of this chapter.

RULE 50 COMMITTEE POWER

50.1 Each committee, including any special committee, shall have the power to inspect, examine, inquire into, and pass upon at least one report at each session on all matters within its jurisdiction and to hold such hearings and investigation, which the committee may find necessary.

50.2 Each committee of the House including any sub-committee is authorized to hold hearings, to sit and act at such times and places during sessions, recesses and adjourned periods of the House, to require by subpoena or otherwise the attendance of such witnesses and the production of such correspondence, books, papers and documents as required. Each committee may conduct investigations into any matter within its jurisdiction and may report such hearings as may be heard by it.

50.3 Each such committee shall, as far as practicable, require all witness swearing before it to file in advance written statements of their proposed testimony and to limit oral presentation to brief summaries of testimony. The staff of each committee shall prepare a digest of such statements for the use of Committee members.

50.4 Any person having been summoned as a witness by the authority of the House to give testimony or to produce papers upon any matter under inquiry before the House or any committee established by the House, who willfully makes, defaults, or who, having appeared, refuses to answer any question pertinent to the question under inquiry, shall be guilty of contempt, punishable by a fine of not less than L$500.00 and not more than L$5,000.00 and or imprisonment in a common jail for a period not exceeding the duration of session for the House

RULE 51 OVERSIGHT RESPONSIBILITIES OF COMMITTEES

51.1 In addition to the functions and jurisdictions outlined in this rule, committees shall exercise legislative oversight with respect to the following:

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a. Ensure Executive compliance with legislative intent

b. Improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and economy of governmental operations c. Evaluate program performanced. Prevent Executive encroachment on legislative prerogativese. Investigate all instances of poor administration, arbitrary and capricious behavior, abuse, waste, dishonesty and fraud.

f. Assess an agency or official’s ability to manage and carry out program objectives

g. Review and determine government financial priorities

h. Ensure that Executive policies reflect the public interest

I. Protect individual rights and liberties

j. Acquire information useful in future policymaking

k. Review agencies rule-making process.

RULE 52 COMMITTEE PROCEDURE

52.1 Each committee shall keep a complete record of all of its activities. The chairperson of each Committee shall supervise and have custody of all such records, request a member of his/her personal staff to attend each meeting of a Committee, sub-committee or a special committee of the House.

52.2 No measure or recommendation shall be reported from any such committee unless a majority of the committee was actually present, deliberated upon the matter and approved the measure or recommendation.

52.3 Should a chairperson of a committee at the time of a regular meeting of the committee, or at the time of a call meeting fails to get a quorum to attend, he/she shall promptly report same to the House when his/her report shall be placed together with the names of delinquent (s) and the House shall take such measures as will ensure the holding of the meeting of the committee.

52.4 All hearings conducted by committees or their sub-committees shall be opened to the public, except such matters as will lead to the disclosure of confidential or secret information, information harmful to the national defense, society and security of the state and in the covert conduct of Liberia’s defense, affairs, as well as the proceedings of an executive session.

52.5 Whenever any hearing is conducted by such committee or a sub-committee, such hearing shall be opened to the public and shall be covered by the media, both print and electronic, and may be broadcast or televised under such rules as the committee or a sub-committee may adopt.

a. Ensure Executive compliance with legislative intent

b. Improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and economy of governmental operations c. Evaluate program performanced. Prevent Executive encroachment on legislative prerogativese. Investigate all instances of poor administration, arbitrary and capricious behavior, abuse, waste, dishonesty and fraud.

f. Assess an agency or official’s ability to manage and carry out program objectives

g. Review and determine government financial priorities

h. Ensure that Executive policies reflect the public interest

I. Protect individual rights and liberties

j. Acquire information useful in future policymaking

k. Review agencies rule-making process.

RULE 52 COMMITTEE PROCEDURE

52.1 Each committee shall keep a complete record of all of its activities. The chairperson of each Committee shall supervise and have custody of all such records, request a member of his/her personal staff to attend each meeting of a Committee, sub-committee or a special committee of the House.

52.2 No measure or recommendation shall be reported from any such committee unless a majority of the committee was actually present, deliberated upon the matter and approved the measure or recommendation.

52.3 Should a chairperson of a committee at the time of a regular meeting of the committee, or at the time of a call meeting fails to get a quorum to attend, he/she shall promptly report same to the House when his/her report shall be placed together with the names of delinquent (s) and the House shall take such measures as will ensure the holding of the meeting of the committee.

52.4 All hearings conducted by committees or their sub-committees shall be opened to the public, except such matters as will lead to the disclosure of confidential or secret information, information harmful to the national defense, society and security of the state and in the covert conduct of Liberia’s defense, affairs, as well as the proceedings of an executive session.

52.5 Whenever any hearing is conducted by such committee or a sub-committee, such hearing shall be opened to the public and shall be covered by the media, both print and electronic, and may be broadcast or televised under such rules as the committee or a sub-committee may adopt.

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52.6 Whenever disorder arises during a committee’s hearing that is open to the public, or any demonstration of approval or disapproval is indulged in by a person or persons in attendance at such a meeting [hearing], it shall be the duty of the chairperson to enforce order on his/her own initiative and without any point of order being made by a member. When the chairperson finds it necessary to maintain order, he/she shall have the power to clear the room, and the committee may act in close session for as long as there is doubt of the assurance of order.

52.7 There shall be no proxy voting in any committee hearings or any other transaction of business of the House.

52.8 All committees shall report directly to the full House

RULE 53 COMPOSITION OF COMMITTEES

53.1Each committee shall be composed of not more than seven (7) members, except the committees on Ways, Means and Finance and Peace & National Reconciliation, which shall consist of one member each from each of the fifteen counties.

53.2 No member shall serve at any time as chairman of more than one committee.

53.3 No member shall serve as co-chairman on more than two committees.

53.4 No chairperson of a Statutory or Standing Committee shall co-chair more than one committee.

53.5 No chairperson of a Statutory Committee shall co-chair another Statutory Committee.

53.6 No member shall serve on more than five (5) committees.

RULE 54VACANCIES AND ABSENCES ON COMMITTEES

54.1 All committee chairpersons and members shall serve for (3) three years, but only the chairperson and co-chairperson are subject to removal by 2/3 majority vote of the Members of the House for a cause.

54.2 Should the chairperson of any committee for any cause cease to serve, it shall be the duty of the Speaker to appoint a new chairperson in consultation with the leadership of the House.

54.3 In case of the temporary absence of a chairperson of a committee, the co-chairperson shall assume the chair until the chairperson proper returns to duty.

52.6 Whenever disorder arises during a committee’s hearing that is open to the public, or any demonstration of approval or disapproval is indulged in by a person or persons in attendance at such a meeting [hearing], it shall be the duty of the chairperson to enforce order on his/her own initiative and without any point of order being made by a member. When the chairperson finds it necessary to maintain order, he/she shall have the power to clear the room, and the committee may act in close session for as long as there is doubt of the assurance of order.

52.7 There shall be no proxy voting in any committee hearings or any other transaction of business of the House.

52.8 All committees shall report directly to the full House

RULE 53 COMPOSITION OF COMMITTEES

53.1Each committee shall be composed of not more than seven (7) members, except the committees on Ways, Means and Finance and Peace & National Reconciliation, which shall consist of one member each from each of the fifteen counties.

53.2 No member shall serve at any time as chairman of more than one committee.

53.3 No member shall serve as co-chairman on more than two committees.

53.4 No chairperson of a Statutory or Standing Committee shall co-chair more than one committee.

53.5 No chairperson of a Statutory Committee shall co-chair another Statutory Committee.

53.6 No member shall serve on more than five (5) committees.

RULE 54VACANCIES AND ABSENCES ON COMMITTEES

54.1 All committee chairpersons and members shall serve for (3) three years, but only the chairperson and co-chairperson are subject to removal by 2/3 majority vote of the Members of the House for a cause.

54.2 Should the chairperson of any committee for any cause cease to serve, it shall be the duty of the Speaker to appoint a new chairperson in consultation with the leadership of the House.

54.3 In case of the temporary absence of a chairperson of a committee, the co-chairperson shall assume the chair until the chairperson proper returns to duty.

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RULE 55COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSON STAFF LIST

55.1 The staff of a committee chairperson shall consist of the following: a. Chief of Office Staff - 1 b. Adm. Assistant - 1 c. Special Assistant - 1 d. Executive Secretary - 1 e. Secretary - 1 f. Filing Clerk - 1 g. Receptionist - 1 h. Chauffeur - 1 i. Page - 1 j. Yard Boy - 1 k. Cooks - 1 l. Security - 2 m. Resource Officer - 1

RULE 56STATUTORY COMMITTEES

a. Executive b. Foreign Affairs c. Judiciary d. Ways, Means, and Finance e. Rules and Order f. Public Accounts & Expenditures g. Gender Equity and Child Development h. National Security

RULE 57FUNCTIONS & JURISDICTION OF STATUTORY COMMITTEES

57.1 COMMITTEE ON EXECUTIVE: All messages and other documents from the president, as well as all proposed legislations, inauguration and other matters relating to the work of the committee shall be thereto referred.

57.2 COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions and memorials as follows:

a. Liberia’s relations with foreign nations, non-governmental organizations, including United Nations and its Specialized Agencies, the AU, ECOWAS, Mano River Union, the EU and other international agencies;

RULE 55COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSON STAFF LIST

55.1 The staff of a committee chairperson shall consist of the following: a. Chief of Office Staff - 1 b. Adm. Assistant - 1 c. Special Assistant - 1 d. Executive Secretary - 1 e. Secretary - 1 f. Filing Clerk - 1 g. Receptionist - 1 h. Chauffeur - 1 i. Page - 1 j. Yard Boy - 1 k. Cooks - 1 l. Security - 2 m. Resource Officer - 1

RULE 56STATUTORY COMMITTEES

a. Executive b. Foreign Affairs c. Judiciary d. Ways, Means, and Finance e. Rules and Order f. Public Accounts & Expenditures g. Gender Equity and Child Development h. National Security

RULE 57FUNCTIONS & JURISDICTION OF STATUTORY COMMITTEES

57.1 COMMITTEE ON EXECUTIVE: All messages and other documents from the president, as well as all proposed legislations, inauguration and other matters relating to the work of the committee shall be thereto referred.

57.2 COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions and memorials as follows:

a. Liberia’s relations with foreign nations, non-governmental organizations, including United Nations and its Specialized Agencies, the AU, ECOWAS, Mano River Union, the EU and other international agencies;

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b. Treaties, executive agreements and international conventions, excluding trade agreements;

c. Boundary questions between Liberia and other nations;

d. Protection of Liberian citizens in other countries;

e. Neutrality, intervention abroad, and Declaration of war;

f. Measures relating to diplomatic, consular and foreign services, foreign and domestic;g. International conferences and congresses;h. Acquisition of land and/or building for diplomatic missions in foreign countries and in Liberia;

I. Measures intended to foster economic cooperation for diplomatic missions in foreign nations and to protect Liberia’s interests abroad;

j. Foreign Policy matters;

k. Foreign loans, grants and assistance;

l. Nominations of delegates to present the House at conferences abroad, subject to approval, modification or rejection by the full House after consideration on the Committee’s report.

57.3 COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as follows:

a. The administration of justice in the Republic of Liberia;

b. Judicial proceedings, civic, and criminal, generally;

c. Constitutional amendment (s) and Constitutional matters;

d. The Courts and judges of the Republic of Liberia;

e. Repeal, amendments, revision and codification of status and other legal matters;

f. Prisoner, prison houses and prison reforms;

g. Protection of trade and commerce against unlawful restraints and monopolies;

I. Bankruptcy, mutiny, espionage and counterfeiting;j. Inter-and intra-country boundary disputes;

k. Courts martial law and military law;

l. Civic rights and code of ethics and conduct;

b. Treaties, executive agreements and international conventions, excluding trade agreements;

c. Boundary questions between Liberia and other nations;

d. Protection of Liberian citizens in other countries;

e. Neutrality, intervention abroad, and Declaration of war;

f. Measures relating to diplomatic, consular and foreign services, foreign and domestic;g. International conferences and congresses;h. Acquisition of land and/or building for diplomatic missions in foreign countries and in Liberia;

I. Measures intended to foster economic cooperation for diplomatic missions in foreign nations and to protect Liberia’s interests abroad;

j. Foreign Policy matters;

k. Foreign loans, grants and assistance;

l. Nominations of delegates to present the House at conferences abroad, subject to approval, modification or rejection by the full House after consideration on the Committee’s report.

57.3 COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as follows:

a. The administration of justice in the Republic of Liberia;

b. Judicial proceedings, civic, and criminal, generally;

c. Constitutional amendment (s) and Constitutional matters;

d. The Courts and judges of the Republic of Liberia;

e. Repeal, amendments, revision and codification of status and other legal matters;

f. Prisoner, prison houses and prison reforms;

g. Protection of trade and commerce against unlawful restraints and monopolies;

I. Bankruptcy, mutiny, espionage and counterfeiting;j. Inter-and intra-country boundary disputes;

k. Courts martial law and military law;

l. Civic rights and code of ethics and conduct;

36. 36.

m. The Liberia National Police and private Security.

57.4 COMMITTEE ON WAYS, MEANS AND FINANCE: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as follows:

a. All appropriations of the revenue for the support of the Government;

b. All matters relating to the finances of the House, preparation of the House’s budget and the custody and disbursement of the House’s funds subject to the approval of the Speaker or Deputy Speaker;

c. Consideration and evaluation of the National Budget and the handling of hearing on the said budget as a whole with particular reference to the basic recommendations and budgetary policies of the Government of the Republic of Liberia;

d. Domestic and International Finances;

e. International financial and monetary organizations;

f. The national budget, customs, revenue and tax policies and licensing generally;

g. Public expenditure and debt services;

h. Present to the House written financial report every (3) three months;

I. Nomination of Director of Finance to the House;

j. Evaluate and initial all checks, vouchers and related financial documents emanating from the House.

57.5 COMMITTEES ON RULES, ORDER & ADMINISTRATION: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as follows:

a. The House’s Library, statutes and pictures in the management of said Library, purchase of books and manuscripts and works of art for the Library;

b. Parliamentary rules, floor and gallery rules, House’s Chambers, House’s Restaurant, all administration of the House’s office building (The Capitol Building), including assignment of office space to House Members and staff;

c. The printing and correction of House’s Records and Journals, as well as distribution of handbills, recommendation for employment of central Administration Staff and Directors;

d. The disposal of useless executive papers and other properties of the House;

m. The Liberia National Police and private Security.

57.4 COMMITTEE ON WAYS, MEANS AND FINANCE: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as follows:

a. All appropriations of the revenue for the support of the Government;

b. All matters relating to the finances of the House, preparation of the House’s budget and the custody and disbursement of the House’s funds subject to the approval of the Speaker or Deputy Speaker;

c. Consideration and evaluation of the National Budget and the handling of hearing on the said budget as a whole with particular reference to the basic recommendations and budgetary policies of the Government of the Republic of Liberia;

d. Domestic and International Finances;

e. International financial and monetary organizations;

f. The national budget, customs, revenue and tax policies and licensing generally;

g. Public expenditure and debt services;

h. Present to the House written financial report every (3) three months;

I. Nomination of Director of Finance to the House;

j. Evaluate and initial all checks, vouchers and related financial documents emanating from the House.

57.5 COMMITTEES ON RULES, ORDER & ADMINISTRATION: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as follows:

a. The House’s Library, statutes and pictures in the management of said Library, purchase of books and manuscripts and works of art for the Library;

b. Parliamentary rules, floor and gallery rules, House’s Chambers, House’s Restaurant, all administration of the House’s office building (The Capitol Building), including assignment of office space to House Members and staff;

c. The printing and correction of House’s Records and Journals, as well as distribution of handbills, recommendation for employment of central Administration Staff and Directors;

d. The disposal of useless executive papers and other properties of the House;

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e. The compensation, award and other benefits to House Members, officials and employees of the House;

f. Provisions of furniture, office equipment and supplies, and maintains security around and within the Capitol Building;

g. Shall exercise oversight responsibility over the House’s Procurement Department and initial all duty free privileges for the House;

h. All central Administration Staff related issues shall be channeled through this committee to plenary. Discussions from plenary on such matters shall be final and binding.

57.6 COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC ACCOUNTS AND EXPENDITURES:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as follows:

a. To examine the accounts, showing the appropriation of the sums granted by the House to meet public expenditure, together with the auditors report thereon. The Committee shall for the purpose of discharging that duty, have power to summon persons, summon papers and records, and report its findings and recommendations to the House from time to time;

b. Records of all government revenue generation and expenditure;c. Records from the National Cash Management Committee;

d. Records on audit opinions and general work of the General Auditing Commission, and report its findings and recommendations to the House from time to time;

e. To examine records on budget performances and value for money audits; f. The General Auditing Commission, Republic of Liberia, shall lay before

each House the audited accounts of the Government of Liberia for each financial year not later than ninety (90) days at the expiration of that financial year;

57.7 COMMITTEE ON GENDER EQUITY& CHILD DEVELOPMENT: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions,

memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee as follows:

a. All matters pertaining to women and children, generally;

b. Gender balance in the appointment of individuals in government.

c. Committee on National Security

e. The compensation, award and other benefits to House Members, officials and employees of the House;

f. Provisions of furniture, office equipment and supplies, and maintains security around and within the Capitol Building;

g. Shall exercise oversight responsibility over the House’s Procurement Department and initial all duty free privileges for the House;

h. All central Administration Staff related issues shall be channeled through this committee to plenary. Discussions from plenary on such matters shall be final and binding.

57.6 COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC ACCOUNTS AND EXPENDITURES:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as follows:

a. To examine the accounts, showing the appropriation of the sums granted by the House to meet public expenditure, together with the auditors report thereon. The Committee shall for the purpose of discharging that duty, have power to summon persons, summon papers and records, and report its findings and recommendations to the House from time to time;

b. Records of all government revenue generation and expenditure;c. Records from the National Cash Management Committee;

d. Records on audit opinions and general work of the General Auditing Commission, and report its findings and recommendations to the House from time to time;

e. To examine records on budget performances and value for money audits; f. The General Auditing Commission, Republic of Liberia, shall lay before

each House the audited accounts of the Government of Liberia for each financial year not later than ninety (90) days at the expiration of that financial year;

57.7 COMMITTEE ON GENDER EQUITY& CHILD DEVELOPMENT: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions,

memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee as follows:

a. All matters pertaining to women and children, generally;

b. Gender balance in the appointment of individuals in government.

c. Committee on National Security

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RULE 58 STANDING COMMITTEES

1. Peace and National Reconciliation2. Planning & Economic Affairs3. Commerce & Industry 4. Transport 5. Education and Public Administration 6. Maritime Affairs 7. Banking and Currency 8. Claims & Petition10. Agriculture, Forestry & Fishery11. Internal Affairs12. Post & Telecommunications13. Information, Broadcasting, Culture & Tourism14. Labor15. Youth & Sport16. Public Works and Rural Development18. Lands, Natural Resources & Environment19. Health & Social Welfare20. Investment & Concessions21. Resettlement, Repatriation, Relief and Re-adjustment22. State Enterprises, Commissions & Autonomous Agencies23. Elections and Inauguration24. National Defense25. Good Governance and Government Reform26. Contracts, Monopolies, Public Procurement & Concession27. Utilities28. Human & Civil Rights

RULE 59FUNCTIONS & JURISDICTIONS OF STANDING COMMITTEES

59.1 COMMITTEE ON PEACE & NATIONAL RECONCILIATION: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as follow:

a. All issues as relates to national reconciliation generally;

b. Coordination of the positions and activities of the leaderships of the three branches of the Liberian Government and government agencies in the search for peace and national reconciliation;

RULE 58 STANDING COMMITTEES

1. Peace and National Reconciliation2. Planning & Economic Affairs3. Commerce & Industry 4. Transport 5. Education and Public Administration 6. Maritime Affairs 7. Banking and Currency 8. Claims & Petition10. Agriculture, Forestry & Fishery11. Internal Affairs12. Post & Telecommunications13. Information, Broadcasting, Culture & Tourism14. Labor15. Youth & Sport16. Public Works and Rural Development18. Lands, Natural Resources & Environment19. Health & Social Welfare20. Investment & Concessions21. Resettlement, Repatriation, Relief and Re-adjustment22. State Enterprises, Commissions & Autonomous Agencies23. Elections and Inauguration24. National Defense25. Good Governance and Government Reform26. Contracts, Monopolies, Public Procurement & Concession27. Utilities28. Human & Civil Rights

RULE 59FUNCTIONS & JURISDICTIONS OF STANDING COMMITTEES

59.1 COMMITTEE ON PEACE & NATIONAL RECONCILIATION: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as follow:

a. All issues as relates to national reconciliation generally;

b. Coordination of the positions and activities of the leaderships of the three branches of the Liberian Government and government agencies in the search for peace and national reconciliation;

39. 39.

c. The role, effort, contributions of and coordination with and among states,

national, regional and international governments and non-governmental

bodies in promotion of peace and national reconciliation. Particular

attention shall be paid to the work of diplomatic representations of states,

the ECOWAS, African Union, European Union, International Contact

Group on Liberia and the United Nations Mission in Liberia and other

UN agencies on peace and reconciliation;

d. The effective work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to the

extent of the Commission’s mandate (s) of other related national bodies;

training, sensitization and public awareness and other activities for the

building and strengthening of capacity and peace constituency within the

legislature;

e. Resolutions, position statements and declarations of the House on the

peace process and national reconciliation;

f. All other matters dealing with the resolution of the Liberian violent

conflicts in the country and the West African sub-region which impact on

Liberia;

g. Maintenance of legislative oversight on genuine peace in Liberia, of the

Truth and Reconciliation Commission and other matters affecting peace,

stability and reconciliation in Liberia and the sub-region.

59.2 COMMITTEE ON PLANNING AND ECONOMIC AFFAIRS:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions,

memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as

follows:

c. The role, effort, contributions of and coordination with and among states,

national, regional and international governments and non-governmental

bodies in promotion of peace and national reconciliation. Particular

attention shall be paid to the work of diplomatic representations of states,

the ECOWAS, African Union, European Union, International Contact

Group on Liberia and the United Nations Mission in Liberia and other

UN agencies on peace and reconciliation;

d. The effective work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to the

extent of the Commission’s mandate (s) of other related national bodies;

training, sensitization and public awareness and other activities for the

building and strengthening of capacity and peace constituency within the

legislature;

e. Resolutions, position statements and declarations of the House on the

peace process and national reconciliation;

f. All other matters dealing with the resolution of the Liberian violent

conflicts in the country and the West African sub-region which impact on

Liberia;

g. Maintenance of legislative oversight on genuine peace in Liberia, of the

Truth and Reconciliation Commission and other matters affecting peace,

stability and reconciliation in Liberia and the sub-region.

59.2 COMMITTEE ON PLANNING AND ECONOMIC AFFAIRS:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions,

memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as

follows:

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a. Census, population, demography, and family planning programs;

b. Collection of statistics, including economic and social statistics;

c. Economic planning, including priority Government programs and

projects;

d. External assistance programs designed to promote and increase national

development and improve the well-being of the people.

a. Census, population, demography, and family planning programs;

b. Collection of statistics, including economic and social statistics;

c. Economic planning, including priority Government programs and

projects;

d. External assistance programs designed to promote and increase national

development and improve the well-being of the people.

59.3 COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as follows:

a. Commerce, industry and commercial transactions generally;

b. Domestic and foreign trade, exports and imports;

c. Consumer affairs, consumer protection and pricing standards;

59.3 COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as follows:

a. Commerce, industry and commercial transactions generally;

b. Domestic and foreign trade, exports and imports;

c. Consumer affairs, consumer protection and pricing standards;

d. Regulation of businesses, consumer products and services;e. Protective tariffs and embargoes, export and import controls;f. Companies, corporations, concessions and manufacturing firms.

59.4 COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORT: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Civil aviation, land transport, and commercial carries of goods and persons by land, and air as well as common carriers;

b. All transport union activities;c. Matters relating to insurance, insurance policies and insurance

companies.

59.5 COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION & PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Education and public administration, generally;b. Educational policies, programs, training, funding, implementation

and operation as relate to elementary and high schools, vocational institutes, colleges and universities as well as ecclesiastical institutions;

c. Teachers and students educational supervision;d. Food program for children in elementary and high schools;e. Vocational and technical education, scholarships and scientific

research and projects;f. Matters relating to the re-organization and reform of Government and

its bureaucracies.

59.6 COMMITTEE ON MARITIME AFFAIRS: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as follows:

a. Marine and Maritime Affairs, generally;b. Navigation, collisions at sea and inland waters, perils at sea,

oceanography, registration and licensing of ships, all other watercrafts, and seamen’s affairs, generally.

59.7 COMMITTEE ON BANKING & CURRENCY:To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as follows:

a. Banking and currency generally, including monetary policy;

d. Regulation of businesses, consumer products and services;e. Protective tariffs and embargoes, export and import controls;f. Companies, corporations, concessions and manufacturing firms.

59.4 COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORT: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Civil aviation, land transport, and commercial carries of goods and persons by land, and air as well as common carriers;

b. All transport union activities;c. Matters relating to insurance, insurance policies and insurance

companies.

59.5 COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION & PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Education and public administration, generally;b. Educational policies, programs, training, funding, implementation

and operation as relate to elementary and high schools, vocational institutes, colleges and universities as well as ecclesiastical institutions;

c. Teachers and students educational supervision;d. Food program for children in elementary and high schools;e. Vocational and technical education, scholarships and scientific

research and projects;f. Matters relating to the re-organization and reform of Government and its bureaucracies.

59.6 COMMITTEE ON MARITIME AFFAIRS: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as follows:

a. Marine and Maritime Affairs, generally;b. Navigation, collisions at sea and inland waters, perils at sea,

oceanography, registration and licensing of ships, all other watercrafts, and seamen’s affairs, generally.

59.7 COMMITTEE ON BANKING & CURRENCY:To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee, as follows:

a. Banking and currency generally, including monetary policy;

41. 41.

b. Financial aid to commerce, industry and agriculture other then matters

relating to such aid, which are specifically assigned to other

committees under the rules;

c. Deposits, foreign exchange transactions, and bank loans;

d. Public monies and depositories;

e. Minting and coinage, money and credits;59.7.6 Insurance and

redemption of notes;

f. Valuation and revaluation of Liberian coins/currency;

g. Interests and commissions chargeable against Government and bank

customers.

59.8 COMMITTEE ON CLAIMS & PETITIONS:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages,

petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the

committee, as follows:

a. Determination of the validity and amount of all claims brought against

the Republic and to derive ways and means for the settlement of it;

b. Holding of hearings regarding claims;

c. Examination of petitions for annuity, pension, redness and relief for

the common good;

d. Consideration of claims brought against private persons or private

corporations and enterprises.

59.9 COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY &

FISHERIES:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages,

petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the

committee, as follows:

a. Agricultural production and marketing;

b. Animal husbandry, poultry, plant and animal diseases;

c. Farmer cooperatives, forest reserves and wildlife and forestry;

d. Inspection of fish, livestock, meat and agricultural products;

e. Nutrition, drought and hunger;

f. Agricultural engineering, irrigation and fishponds;

g. Pets and pesticides/pest control;h. Agricultural institution and experimental sectors;i. Government owned corporations dealing in coffee, cocoa, rice, oil

palm and rubber production.

b. Financial aid to commerce, industry and agriculture other then matters

relating to such aid, which are specifically assigned to other

committees under the rules;

c. Deposits, foreign exchange transactions, and bank loans;

d. Public monies and depositories;

e. Minting and coinage, money and credits;59.7.6 Insurance and

redemption of notes;

f. Valuation and revaluation of Liberian coins/currency;

g. Interests and commissions chargeable against Government and bank

customers.

59.8 COMMITTEE ON CLAIMS & PETITIONS:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages,

petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the

committee, as follows:

a. Determination of the validity and amount of all claims brought against

the Republic and to derive ways and means for the settlement of it;

b. Holding of hearings regarding claims;

c. Examination of petitions for annuity, pension, redness and relief for

the common good;

d. Consideration of claims brought against private persons or private

corporations and enterprises.

59.9 COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY &

FISHERIES:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages,

petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the

committee, as follows:

a. Agricultural production and marketing;

b. Animal husbandry, poultry, plant and animal diseases;

c. Farmer cooperatives, forest reserves and wildlife and forestry;

d. Inspection of fish, livestock, meat and agricultural products;

e. Nutrition, drought and hunger;

f. Agricultural engineering, irrigation and fishponds;

g. Pets and pesticides/pest control;h. Agricultural institution and experimental sectors;i. Government owned corporations dealing in coffee, cocoa, rice, oil

palm and rubber production.

42. 42.

59.10 COMMITTEE ON INTERNAL AFFAIRS: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Interior administration, counties, statutory districts and municipalities;b. Chieftaincy, customary practices and societies;c. Local Government and administration;d. City garbage disposal and beautification;e. National Cemeteries;f. Recreational areas and parks;g. Liberian Marketing Association (LMA).

59.11 COMMITTEE ON POST & TELECOMMUNICATION: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Postal affairs and telecommunications generally;b. Consideration of issues with regards to the establishment, installation,

operation and administration of telecommunication facilities, including cables, telegraphy, telephones, wireless, telex, satellites, ISD and internet services;

c. The licensing of radio and televisions stations, and transmission of local and international messages via the telecommunication facilities and postal services.

d. Postal affairs and telecommunications generally;e. Consideration of issues with regards to the establishment, installation,

operation and administration of telecommunication facilities, including cables, telegraphy, telephones, wireless, telex, satellites, ISD and internet services;

f. The licensing of radio and televisions stations, and transmission of local and international messages via the telecommunication facilities and postal services.

59.12 COMMITTEE ON INFORMATION, BROADCASTING, CULTURE AND TOURISM: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Information, broadcasting, cultural affairs and tourism generally;b. The print and electronic media, news agencies, public relations, internet

and Radio broadcasting, cable and satellite broadcasting, television, movies and videos;

c. Press attaches and journalists and coverage of news;d. Cultural programs, activities and the performing arts generally;e. Nomination of the Press Officer to the House.

59.10 COMMITTEE ON INTERNAL AFFAIRS: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Interior administration, counties, statutory districts and municipalities;b. Chieftaincy, customary practices and societies;c. Local Government and administration;d. City garbage disposal and beautification;e. National Cemeteries;f. Recreational areas and parks;g. Liberian Marketing Association (LMA).

59.11 COMMITTEE ON POST & TELECOMMUNICATION: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Postal affairs and telecommunications generally;b. Consideration of issues with regards to the establishment, installation,

operation and administration of telecommunication facilities, including cables, telegraphy, telephones, wireless, telex, satellites, ISD and

internet services;c. The licensing of radio and televisions stations, and transmission of local

and international messages via the telecommunication facilities and postal services.

d. Postal affairs and telecommunications generally;e. Consideration of issues with regards to the establishment, installation,

operation and administration of telecommunication facilities, including cables, telegraphy, telephones, wireless, telex, satellites, ISD and

internet services;f. The licensing of radio and televisions stations, and transmission of local

and international messages via the telecommunication facilities and postal services.

59.12 COMMITTEE ON INFORMATION, BROADCASTING, CULTURE AND TOURISM: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Information, broadcasting, cultural affairs and tourism generally;b. The print and electronic media, news agencies, public relations, internet

and Radio broadcasting, cable and satellite broadcasting, television, movies and videos;

c. Press attaches and journalists and coverage of news;d. Cultural programs, activities and the performing arts generally;e. Nomination of the Press Officer to the House.

43. 43.

59.13 COMMITTEE ON LABOUR: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Measures relating to labor generally;b. Conciliation, mediation and arbitration of labor disputes, including

strikes;c. Illegal and wrongful dismissal cases, redundancies, retirements and

pensions;d. Unfair labor practices;e. Workman’s compensation for injuries, death and disability;f. Violation of labor practice laws;g. National Social Security Schemesh. Labor statistics, manpower, development and unemploymenti. Insurance of work permits to aliens

59.14 COMMITTEE ON YOUTH AND SPORTS: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Youth and Sports, generally;b. Amateur and professional sports, including Olympic Games;c. International sports organizations;d. International sports competitions, promotions and development;e. Measures for the promotion of boys scout, girls guides and other youth

organizations;f. Matters relating to sports men and women, spectators and sports

stadiums.

59.15 COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions,

memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Public works and construction and rehabilitation of primary and

secondary roads, harbors, dams, bridges, airstrips, airports, public

buildings and structures;

b. Public and private housing constructions and their electrification, water

supply and sewer facilities;

c. Reclamation projects, erosion and flood control;

d. Repairs and maintenance for public buildings and structures;

e. Erection of monuments to the memory of individuals;

f. Construction and maintenance of farm to market roads.

g. Matters relating to rural development, generally;

59.13 COMMITTEE ON LABOUR: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Measures relating to labor generally;b. Conciliation, mediation and arbitration of labor disputes, including

strikes;c. Illegal and wrongful dismissal cases, redundancies, retirements and

pensions;d. Unfair labor practices;e. Workman’s compensation for injuries, death and disability;f. Violation of labor practice laws;g. National Social Security Schemesh. Labor statistics, manpower, development and unemploymenti. Insurance of work permits to aliens

59.14 COMMITTEE ON YOUTH AND SPORTS: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Youth and Sports, generally;b. Amateur and professional sports, including Olympic Games;c. International sports organizations;d. International sports competitions, promotions and development;e. Measures for the promotion of boys scout, girls guides and other youth

organizations;f. Matters relating to sports men and women, spectators and sports

stadiums.

59.15 COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC WORKS AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions,

memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Public works and construction and rehabilitation of primary and

secondary roads, harbors, dams, bridges, airstrips, airports, public

buildings and structures;

b. Public and private housing constructions and their electrification, water

supply and sewer facilities;

c. Reclamation projects, erosion and flood control;

d. Repairs and maintenance for public buildings and structures;

e. Erection of monuments to the memory of individuals;

f. Construction and maintenance of farm to market roads.

g. Matters relating to rural development, generally;

44. 44.

h. Provisions of safe-drinking water in rural areas;

i. Installation and maintenance of wells and pumps in rural areas;i

59.16 COMMITTEE ON LANDS, NATURAL RESOURCES AND

ENVIRONMENT:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions,

memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Geological and cadastral-survey, mining, hydrology and meteorology;

b. Matters relating to energy and their regulations, utilization and

conservation;

c. Extraction of minerals, oil and gas exploration and production;

d. National parks, wilderness areas and public lands;

e. Air, land, and water pollution;

f. Energy and environmental policies, programs and projects.

59.17 COMMITTEE ON HEALTH AND SOCIAL WELFARE:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions,

memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Social Welfare, generally;

b. Public health and sanitation, quarantine and epidemics;

c. Medical practices and medical malpractices;

d. Other autonomous agencies of government not otherwise assigned to

other Standing Committee of the House;

e. Hospitals, Clinics, medical and health centers;

f. Medical diagnoses, treatment and precaution against contagious diseases;

g. Bio-medical and medical research and development;

h. The elderly, aged and handicapped;

i. Psychiatry, mentally disturbed people, and mental asylums;

j. Reformatory homes and centers;

k. Juveniles and unwed mothers;

l. Civil and philanthropic organizations;

m. Pharmaceuticals and drugs;

n. Registration of births and deaths.

h. Provisions of safe-drinking water in rural areas;

i. Installation and maintenance of wells and pumps in rural areas;i

59.16 COMMITTEE ON LANDS, NATURAL RESOURCES AND

ENVIRONMENT:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions,

memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Geological and cadastral-survey, mining, hydrology and meteorology;

b. Matters relating to energy and their regulations, utilization and

conservation;

c. Extraction of minerals, oil and gas exploration and production;

d. National parks, wilderness areas and public lands;

e. Air, land, and water pollution;

f. Energy and environmental policies, programs and projects.

59.17 COMMITTEE ON HEALTH AND SOCIAL WELFARE:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions,

memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Social Welfare, generally;

b. Public health and sanitation, quarantine and epidemics;

c. Medical practices and medical malpractices;

d. Other autonomous agencies of government not otherwise assigned to

other Standing Committee of the House;

e. Hospitals, Clinics, medical and health centers;

f. Medical diagnoses, treatment and precaution against contagious diseases;

g. Bio-medical and medical research and development;

h. The elderly, aged and handicapped;

i. Psychiatry, mentally disturbed people, and mental asylums;

j. Reformatory homes and centers;

k. Juveniles and unwed mothers;

l. Civil and philanthropic organizations;

m. Pharmaceuticals and drugs;

n. Registration of births and deaths.

45. 45.

59.18 COMMITTEE ON INVESTMENT AND CONCESSIONS:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages,

petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Matters dealing with national investment and incentives, generally;

b. Private enterprises, which have been granted concessions by the

government to operate in Liberia;

c. Messages arising from the national investment incentives code;

d. Monitoring of venue capital investments.

59.19 COMMITTEE ON RESETTLEMENT, REPATRIATION, RE-

ADJUSTMENT & RELIEF:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages,

petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Repatriation and resettlement, generally;

b. Movement by land, air and sea of Liberian refugees in the West African

region and beyond as a result of the Liberian crisis;

c. Coordination of activities for the repatriation and resettlement of

displaced Liberians and Liberian refugees at home;

d. Policies and activities in connection with the repatriation and

resettlement of Liberian refuges as well as other displaced Liberians.

59.20 COMMITTEE ON STATE ENTERPRISES, PUBLIC

AUTONOMOUS COMMISSIONS, AGENCIES:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages,

petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Government-owned and private corporations dealing with the refining

of petroleum products;

b. Government-owned enterprises engaged in produce marketing, port

and harbor management;

c. Government-owned enterprises engaged in wood-processing, hotel,

printing, small business and housing.

59.21 COMMITTEE ON ELECTIONS AND INAUGURATION:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages,

petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. General and presidential elections, generally

b. The Inauguration of elected officials of Government.

59.18 COMMITTEE ON INVESTMENT AND CONCESSIONS:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages,

petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Matters dealing with national investment and incentives, generally;

b. Private enterprises, which have been granted concessions by the

government to operate in Liberia;

c. Messages arising from the national investment incentives code;

d. Monitoring of venue capital investments.

59.19 COMMITTEE ON RESETTLEMENT, REPATRIATION, RE-

ADJUSTMENT & RELIEF:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages,

petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Repatriation and resettlement, generally;

b. Movement by land, air and sea of Liberian refugees in the West African

region and beyond as a result of the Liberian crisis;

c. Coordination of activities for the repatriation and resettlement of

displaced Liberians and Liberian refugees at home;

d. Policies and activities in connection with the repatriation and

resettlement of Liberian refuges as well as other displaced Liberians.

59.20 COMMITTEE ON STATE ENTERPRISES, PUBLIC

AUTONOMOUS COMMISSIONS, AGENCIES:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages,

petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Government-owned and private corporations dealing with the refining

of petroleum products;

b. Government-owned enterprises engaged in produce marketing, port

and harbor management;

c. Government-owned enterprises engaged in wood-processing, hotel,

printing, small business and housing.

59.21 COMMITTEE ON ELECTIONS AND INAUGURATION:

To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages,

petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. General and presidential elections, generally

b. The Inauguration of elected officials of Government.

46. 46.

59.22 COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL DEFENSE: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Common defense, generally, including arms, armament, recruitment and service;

b. The Ministry of Defense and all military activities, including the AFL, the Coast Guard and the Army Aviation Unit;

c. Pay, promotions, retirement and other benefits and privileges of members of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL);

d. Size and composition of the Army, Navy, Air Force and the Coast Guard;e. Forts, Arsenal, Military Camps and reservations, and ammunition

depots;f. Military bases and coast guard bases and yards, as homes of military

personnel generally;g. Strategic and critical materials and weaponry necessary for common

defense; h. Military dependents and war veterans.

59.23 COMMITTEE ON GOOD GOVERNANCE & GOVERNMENT REFORM: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Any existing of future program for the promotion of good governance in Liberia;

c. Public sector management reforms through assessment, reforms, capacity-building and performance monitoring;

d. Transparency and accountability in government as well as geo-political and gender balance in the appointment of individuals in government.

59.24 COMMITTEE ON CONTRACTS AND MONOPOLIES: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee as follows:

a. Contracts between the Government of Liberia and any individual of entity, local or international as well as matters relating to monopolies;

b. It shall deal with all public financial and budgetary commitments entered into by the government with any individual (s) or entities, local or international.

59.22 COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL DEFENSE: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Common defense, generally, including arms, armament, recruitment and service;

b. The Ministry of Defense and all military activities, including the AFL, the Coast Guard and the Army Aviation Unit;

c. Pay, promotions, retirement and other benefits and privileges of members of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL);

d. Size and composition of the Army, Navy, Air Force and the Coast Guard;e. Forts, Arsenal, Military Camps and reservations, and ammunition

depots;f. Military bases and coast guard bases and yards, as homes of military

personnel generally;g. Strategic and critical materials and weaponry necessary for common

defense; h. Military dependents and war veterans.

59.23 COMMITTEE ON GOOD GOVERNANCE & GOVERNMENT REFORM: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Any existing of future program for the promotion of good governance in Liberia;

c. Public sector management reforms through assessment, reforms, capacity-building and performance monitoring;

d. Transparency and accountability in government as well as geo-political and gender balance in the appointment of individuals in government.

59.24 COMMITTEE ON CONTRACTS AND MONOPOLIES: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to the work of the committee as follows:

a. Contracts between the Government of Liberia and any individual of entity, local or international as well as matters relating to monopolies;

b. It shall deal with all public financial and budgetary commitments entered into by the government with any individual (s) or entities, local or international.

47. 47.

59.25 COMMITTEE ON UTILITIES: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Government-owned and private corporations dealing with the supply and sale of electricity, water and sewer.

59.26 COMMITTEE ON HUMAN AND CIVIL RIGHTS: To which shall be referred:

a. All, messages, and other documents from the President, civil society groups, local and international human and civil rights groups and all other matters relating to human and civil rights.

59.25 COMMITTEE ON UTILITIES: To which shall be referred all proposed legislations, messages, petitions, memorials and other matters relating to:

a. Government-owned and private corporations dealing with the supply and sale of electricity, water and sewer.

59.26 COMMITTEE ON HUMAN AND CIVIL RIGHTS: To which shall be referred:

a. All, messages, and other documents from the President, civil society groups, local and international human and civil rights groups and all other matters relating to human and civil rights.

48. 48.

CHAPTER 15 MESSAGES AND RATIFICATION OF

TREATIES

RULE 60MESSAGES

60.1 Messages from the President to the House of Representatives may be received at any stage of the proceeding, except while the House is voting or ascertain the presence of a quorum, or while the Journal is been read or adopted or while the question of order or motion to adjourn is pending.

60.2 The Chief Clerk of the House shall certify and deliver to the Chairperson of the House Standing Committee on Executive all bills and other communications as may be directed to the President of the Republic of Liberia.

RULE 61RATIFICATION OF TREATIES

61.1 When a treaty shall be laid before the House for ratification, it shall be accompanied by a proposed ratification bill and, like all other bills, shall received three readings previous to passage, which readings shall be on two different House days (Tuesday and Thursday), unless the House by majority vote directs otherwise. Copies of the ratification bill along with the treaty shall be circulated on the floor of the House a day before the first reading.

CHAPTER 15 MESSAGES AND RATIFICATION OF

TREATIES

RULE 60MESSAGES

60.1 Messages from the President to the House of Representatives may be received at any stage of the proceeding, except while the House is voting or ascertain the presence of a quorum, or while the Journal is been read or adopted or while the question of order or motion to adjourn is pending.

60.2 The Chief Clerk of the House shall certify and deliver to the Chairperson of the House Standing Committee on Executive all bills and other communications as may be directed to the President of the Republic of Liberia.

RULE 61RATIFICATION OF TREATIES

61.1 When a treaty shall be laid before the House for ratification, it shall be accompanied by a proposed ratification bill and, like all other bills, shall received three readings previous to passage, which readings shall be on two different House days (Tuesday and Thursday), unless the House by majority vote directs otherwise. Copies of the ratification bill along with the treaty shall be circulated on the floor of the House a day before the first reading.

49. 49.

CHAPTER 16MISCELLANEOUS

RULE 62HOUSE ADMINISTRATIVE AND FINANCIAL MANUAL

62.1. The House shall adopt an administrative and financial manual.

62.2. After adoption, any revision to the manual shall be presented to the House unless otherwise provided in the manual.

RULE 63AMENDMENT AND SUSPENSION OF RULES

63.1 These Rules shall not be altered unless the members of the House have received a twenty–four (24) hour notice of the proposed change. The twenty-four hour period shall commence with the placement of a printed copy of the proposed amendment upon the desk of each member. Changes in these Rules shall be taken up as a special order. Any change in these Rules shall require the approval of a two-third (2/3) majority of the members of the House.

63.2 These Rules may be suspended, in part or whole, by the approval of a two-third (2/3) majority of the members of the House.

CHAPTER 16MISCELLANEOUS

RULE 62HOUSE ADMINISTRATIVE AND FINANCIAL MANUAL

62.1. The House shall adopt an administrative and financial manual.

62.2. After adoption, any revision to the manual shall be presented to the House unless otherwise provided in the manual.

RULE 63AMENDMENT AND SUSPENSION OF RULES

63.1 These Rules shall not be altered unless the members of the House have received a twenty–four (24) hour notice of the proposed change. The twenty-four hour period shall commence with the placement of a printed copy of the proposed amendment upon the desk of each member. Changes in these Rules shall be taken up as a special order. Any change in these Rules shall require the approval of a two-third (2/3) majority of the members of the House.

63.2 These Rules may be suspended, in part or whole, by the approval of a two-third (2/3) majority of the members of the House.

50. 50.