Congressional Record

CongRec

Congressional record 1935 p1

Congressional Record

The Congressional Record is the official record of the debates and proceedings of the United States Congress. It is published by the United States Government Publishing Office (GPO) and is issued when Congress is in session. The Congressional Record began publication in 1873, replacing the earlier "Annals of Congress," "Register of Debates," and "Congressional Globe." The Record is divided into four main sections: the Daily Digest, the House section, the Senate section, and the Extensions of Remarks. It serves as a vital resource for understanding the legislative process, the issues debated, and the decisions made by the U.S. Congress.

History

The origins of the Congressional Record date back to 1789, with the publication of the Annals of Congress. Over the years, the method of documenting congressional proceedings evolved, leading to the creation of the Congressional Record in 1873. This change was part of an effort to improve the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the congressional record-keeping process.

Content

The Congressional Record contains the most comprehensive account of the discussions, debates, and activities that occur in Congress. It includes the following sections:

• Daily Digest: Summarizes the day's floor and committee activities.
• House Section: Contains the proceedings and debates of the United States House of Representatives.
• Senate Section: Documents the proceedings and debates of the United States Senate.
• Extensions of Remarks: Includes additional statements, articles, and materials submitted by members for publication in the Record.

Importance

The Congressional Record is an essential tool for researchers, journalists, and anyone interested in the legislative process of the United States. It provides a transparent and detailed account of congressional proceedings, offering insights into the legislative intent behind laws and the positions of individual lawmakers.

Access

The Congressional Record is available in both print and digital formats. The GPO's website offers access to digital versions of the Record, including archives dating back to 1994. This accessibility ensures that the public can stay informed about the workings of Congress.

Criticism

While the Congressional Record is a valuable resource for understanding Congress, it has faced criticism for allowing members to revise their remarks before publication. This practice can lead to discrepancies between the spoken word and the printed record, potentially altering the perceived intent or meaning of legislative debates.

Conclusion

The Congressional Record remains a cornerstone of American democracy, providing a transparent and detailed account of congressional proceedings. Despite its limitations, it serves as an indispensable resource for anyone looking to understand the legislative process and the decisions made by the United States Congress.