Question

What is the difference between a closed rule and an open rule in the House?

a) a closed rule puts severe limits on floor debate and amendments, whereas an open rule permits floor debate and makes amendments easier.
b) an open rule puts severe limits on floor debate and amendments, whereas a closed rule permits floor debate and makes amendments easier.
c) a closed rule allows journalists and members of the public to listen to debates about a bill, whereas an open rule prevents journalists and members of the public from listening to debates about the bill.
d) an open rule allows journalists and members of the public to listen to debates about a bill, whereas a closed rule prevents journalists and members of the public from listening to debates about the bill.
e) a closed rule prevents the federal judiciary from declaring a bill unconstitutional once passed, whereas an open rule allows the federal judiciary to declare a bill unconstitutional.

Answer 1

A closed rule in the House of Representatives severely limits floor debate and the ability to add amendments, while an open rule permits more extensive debate and the inclusion of a wider range of amendments.

Step-by-step explanation:

The difference between a closed rule and an open rule in the U.S. House of Representatives pertains to the structure of debate and amendments for a bill. A closed rule imposes strict limits on both floor debate and the ability to propose amendments. This means that discussions on the bill are restricted to the details that are already present within it, and no new amendments can be introduced on the floor by lawmakers; this control is often exerted by the House Rules Committee to streamline the passage of legislation. On the other hand, an open rule allows for a more extensive floor debate and the opportunity for lawmakers to propose a wider range of amendments.

Therefore, the correct answer is: a) a closed rule puts severe limits on floor debate and amendments, whereas an open rule permits floor debate and makes amendments easier.