Advocacy Glossary
Suspension of the rules
What does suspension of the rules mean?
Suspension of the rules is a fast track process in the U.S. House for bills with broad support. Debate is limited to 40 minutes, no amendments are allowed, and passage requires a two thirds vote.
Why it matters for advocates
Many bills that pass the House each year move this way, especially less controversial ones like naming post offices or bipartisan fixes.
For advocates with a bipartisan bill, suspension is a real path to a quick vote. It skips the Rules Committee, but it needs strong support from both parties.
Related terms
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