WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congressman Scott Peters (CA-52) introduced a proposal to get Congress back to work and strengthen its ability to be a constitutional check on the Trump Administration. The resolution would require the House of Representatives to meet 5 days per week for 39 weeks out of the year, for a minimum of 195 working days. The House is scheduled to work for 145 days this year, which is an increase over the average of 139 days per year since 2001.

“Never before has it been as important for Congress to flex its muscle as the branch of government with the power of the purse and the power of oversight over the White House,” said Rep. Scott Peters. “Congress needs to fully investigate Russian influence over the White House. Congress needs to legislate on immigration reform to grow our economy and keep families together. Congress needs to pass not one, but two budgets this year that provide for a strong national defense and invest in the next generation, not a useless border wall. To accomplish all of these priorities and monitor whatever else the President decides to throw at us, Congress needs to show up.”

In a typical four-day week, lawmakers fly to Washington during the afternoon of the first day, and fly out on the morning of the fourth day, leaving only two days to conduct other business including holding oversight hearings and amending legislation. This week, the House was to have one of only five full work weeks scheduled for 2017, but House leadership cancelled votes and sent members home early.