Bipartisan “Fix Congress Caucus” launched on the Hill

June 1, 2023  

  • Congressional Reform
  • Blog

Last fall, the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress released its final report – nearly 300 pages of research culminating in 202 recommendations for how to improve operations so that members of Congress and their staff can work more efficiently and effectively. With this blueprint in hand, the House has been organizing to put these ideas into action. First, through the creation of a Modernization Subcommittee under the Committee on House Administration. Now, though the launch of a bipartisan caucus. 

Recently, Congressman Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Congressman William Timmons (R-SC) circulated a letter among their colleagues on the Hill inviting them to join a new Fix Congress Caucus that will serve as: 

“a forum for Members of Congress, Congressional staff, and civil society groups, to carry out the following activities:

  • Convene to discuss issues impacting Congress’ efficacy related but not limited to the following topics: data and technology, staff capacity, continuity, ethics, effective policymaking, civility and collaboration, and oversight.
  • Receive and provide information on Congressional reform efforts, including implementation of past Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress (Select Committee) recommendations.
  • Serve as a forum to generate additional ideas on how to continue reforming and modernizing Congress, including covering topics that the Select Committee did not get to work on previously.”

As the branch of government responsible for making all laws, declaring war, regulating interstate and foreign commerce, and controlling taxing and spending, Congress must be equipped with the tools and resources necessary to effectively address the needs and priorities of the American people in a rapidly evolving world. The Fix Congress Caucus will help ensure Congress is able to meet that responsibility.

Sunwater’s Congressional Reform program applauds this bipartisan effort led by Reps. Kilmer and Timmons, and is excited to see the Fix Congress Caucus grow.