The House adopted the second substitute to HJR 1 (sponsors’ committee handout) on Feb. 19, a joint rules resolution that enables bill sponsors to upload committee handouts and related materials to the internet when a bill is numbered, including substitutes, giving legislators and the public easier access to sponsor explanations and updated handouts.

Representative Ray Thurston, sponsor of the resolution, said the policy would make committee handouts more accessible to the public and to legislators who need explanatory materials earlier in the process. Representative James Tuscher, who moved the second substitute, said the sub makes limited changes so the handout can reflect the latest substitute language, can be double-sided, and can be corrected after posting if an error is later identified.

Speakers described the change as optional (a sponsor may post a handout but is not required to). Representative Thurston said the option could also reduce printed reams of paper by encouraging electronic distribution. The House recorded a roll-call showing 71 yeas and 0 nays; the substitute passed and will be transmitted to the Senate for its consideration as a joint-resolution rule change.

Discussion vs. decision: debate focused on clarifying scope (applicable to substitutes, ability to fix errors after posting) and whether posting is mandatory (sponsors have discretion). The resolution passed unanimously on the floor.

Votes at a glance: Second substitute, HJR 1 — Passes House; recorded tally 71 yeas, 0 nays.