[House Report 106-1056]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]



                                                       Calendar No. 618
106th Congress                                                   Report
                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
 2nd Session                                                   106-1056
_______________________________________________________________________


                       REPORT ON THE ACTIVITIES

                                 of the

                   COMMITTEE ON HOUSE ADMINISTRATION

                                 of the

                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

                               during the

                       ONE HUNDRED SIXTH CONGRESS

                             together with

                     MINORITY AND ADDITIONAL VIEWS




January 2, 2001.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the 
              State of the Union and ordered to be printed
                               __________

                    U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
89-006                     WASHINGTON : 2001

                          LETTER OF SUBMITTAL

                              ----------                              

                                                   January 2, 2001.
Hon. Jeff Trandahl,
Clerk of the House of Representatives,
Washington, DC.
    Dear Jeff: Pursuant to Clause 1(d) of Rule XI of the Rules 
of the House of Representatives, I hereby submit to the House a 
report on the activities of the Committee on House 
Administration for the 106th Congress, including the oversight 
plan for the 106th Congress.
            Best regards,
                                               Bill Thomas,
                       Chairman, Committee on House Administration.
                     Establishment of the Committee

    The Committee was created on January 4, 1995, and is 
successor to the Committee on House Administration, which was 
created on January 2, 1947 as part of the Legislative 
Reorganization Act of 1946. This Act combined the Committee on 
Accounts, Enrolled Bills, Disposition of Executive Papers, 
Printing, Elections, Election of the President, Vice President, 
and Representatives in Congress, and Memorials. Between January 
2, 1947 and January 4, 1995, the jurisdiction of the Committee 
was amended to include the House Restaurant System, parking 
facilities, House Beauty Shop, campaign contributions to 
candidates for the House, resolutions authorizing committees to 
employ additional professional and clerical personnel, and the 
Committee's shared jurisdiction with the Post Office and Civil 
Service Committee on matters relating to compensation, 
retirement and other benefits of Members, officers and 
employees of Congress.
    The Rules of the House of Representatives for the 104th 
Congress expanded the Committee responsibility for authorizing 
payment of expenses including all staff salaries for any 
committee, commission, or other entity (except the Committee on 
Appropriations) for each Congress. The Committee's jurisdiction 
was also broadened to include the Franking Commission. 
Responsibility for erection of monuments to the memory of 
individuals was transferred to the Committee on Resources.
    Upon adoption of the Rules of the House of Representatives 
for the 105th Congress, the Committee was given sole 
jurisdiction over, and responsibility for, assigning functions 
and providing oversight and policy direction to the Chief 
Administrative Officer of the House. An additional provision 
was added, which requires joint approval by the Chairman and 
Ranking Minority Member of the Committee concerning the amount 
of funds to be paid before a House employing office may enter a 
settlement of a complaint under the Congressional 
Accountability Act of 1995 (CAA) that provides for such a 
payment. The CAA assigns to the Committee responsibility for 
oversight of the Office of Compliance and the Board of 
Directors of the Office of Compliance (section 301(i) of Public 
Law 104-1; 2 U.S.C. 1381(i)).

                         Committee Jurisdiction

    The Committee on House Administration is a standing 
committee of the House of Representatives. The powers and 
duties of the Committee include the statutory responsibilities 
of the predecessor committee, the Committee on House 
Administration, as determined primarily by the Legislative 
Reorganization Acts of 1946 (Public Law 79-601) and 1970 
(Public Law 91-510); the House of Representatives 
Administrative Reform Technical Corrections Act of 1996 (Public 
Law 104-186), and; the Rules of the House of Representatives 
adopted on January 7, 1997. The Committee on House 
Administration, which consists of 9 members, has jurisdiction 
and related functions assigned by clauses 1, 2, 3, and 4 of 
rule X of the Rules of the House of Representatives; and all 
bills, resolutions, and other matters relating to the following 
subjects shall be referred to the Committee:
          1. Appropriations from accounts for committee 
        salaries and expenses (except for the Committee on 
        Appropriations), House Information Systems, and 
        allowances and expenses of Members, House Officers and 
        administrative offices of the House.
          2. Auditing and settling of all accounts described in 
        subparagraph (1).
          3. Employment of persons by the House, including 
        clerks for Members and committees, and recorders.
          4. Except as provided in Rule X, clause 1(q)(11), 
        matters relating to the Library of Congress and the 
        House Library; statuary and pictures; acceptance or 
        purchase of works of art for the Capitol; the Botanic 
        Gardens; management of the Library of Congress; 
        purchase of books and manuscripts.
          5. Except as provided in Rule X, clause 1(q)(11), 
        matters relating to the Smithsonian Institution and the 
        incorporation of similar institutions.
          6. Expenditures of accounts described in subparagraph 
        (1).
          7. Franking Commission.
          8. Matters relating to printing and correction of the 
        Congressional Record.
          9. Measures relating to accounts of the House 
        generally.
          10. Measures relating to assignment of office space 
        for Members and committees.
          11. Measures relating to the disposition of useless 
        executive papers.
          12. Measures relating to the election of the 
        President, Vice President, or Members of Congress; 
        corrupt practices; contested elections; credentials and 
        qualifications; and Federal elections generally.
          13. Measures relating to services to the House, 
        including the House Restaurant, parking facilities and 
        administration of the House Office Buildings and the 
        House wing of the Capitol.
          14. Measures relating to the travel of Members of the 
        House.
          15. Measures relating to the raising, reporting and 
        use of campaign contributions for candidates for office 
        of Representative in the House of Representatives, or 
        Delegate, and of Resident Commissioner to the United 
        States from Puerto Rico.
          16. Measures relating to the compensation, retirement 
        and other benefits of the Members, officers, and 
        employees of the Congress.
    In addition to its legislative jurisdiction under the 
preceding provisions (and its general oversight function) the 
Committee has the function of:
          1. Examining all bills, amendments, and joint 
        resolutions after passage by the House and, in 
        cooperation with the Senate, examining all bills and 
        joint resolutions which shall have passed both Houses 
        to see that they are correctly enrolled, forthwith 
        presenting those which originated in the House to the 
        President of the United States in person after their 
        signature by the Speaker of the House and the President 
        of the Senate and reporting the fact and date of such 
        presentation to the House; and
          2. Providing policy direction for, and oversight of, 
        the Clerk, Sergeant-at-Arms, Chief Administrative 
        Officer, and Inspector General.
    Finally, the Committee has privilege to report at any time 
on enrolled bills, contested elections, and all matters 
referred to it of printing for the use of the House or the two 
Houses, and on all matters of expenditure of the applicable 
accounts of the House and on all matters relating to 
preservation and availability of non-current records of the 
House.

                              INTRODUCTION


                   Committee on House Administration


                             brief history

    The Committee on House Administration is distinguished by 
its exercise not only of legislative and oversight functions, 
but also of extensive responsibility to regulate the day-to-day 
management of internal support and operations of the House. The 
vital character of the Committee's activities is reflected in 
the broad scope of its authorities, which give it 
responsibility for most internal fiscal and administrative 
functions of the chamber.
    In the elections of 1994, Republicans took majority control 
of the House for the first time since 1954, and instituted a 
sharp break with past House administrative practices. Signaling 
recognition of the Committee's important role, the new majority 
party placed authority to name Members of the committee in the 
hands of its leadership rather than election by the party 
conference.
    Under the leadership of Chairman Bill Thomas, the first 
Republican to hold this post in 40 years, the Committee on 
House Administration adopted a management philosophy 
substantially different from the pattern of the past. Basing 
many of its reforms on private sector management principles, 
the Committee's role evolved into one in which the Committee 
set policy and conducted oversight of the subsequent 
implementation by officers of the House.
    Under Chairman Thomas, the Committee also conducted an 
exhaustive survey of public laws applicable to itself, House 
officers, and administrative functions. This effort culminated 
in the August 1996 enactment of the House of Representatives 
Administrative Reform Technical Corrections Act, which 
clarified, changed, or repealed more than 250 ambiguous or 
unnecessary statutes.
    Additionally, the Committee commissioned an independent 
audit of all House accounts by Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC) 
in 1995. The audit revealed deficiencies in House financial 
management including disorganized record keeping and inadequate 
attention to costs. A series of more limited audits of House 
accounts was carried out over the next six years by the House 
Inspector General.
    On the basis of the findings of those audits, the Committee 
developed policies implementing extensive financial and 
accounting management systems. A follow-up audit by PWC in 1999 
found significant improvements in House accounts record 
keeping, and the company pronounced the new financial 
management practices instituted under the Committee's oversight 
in keeping with standard accounting practices.
    While putting the House in order, the Committee also made 
great strides in making Congress more accessible to the 
American people. By working with Speaker Newt Gingrich, the 
Senate, and the Congressional Research Service, to develop a 
computer system called THOMAS (after Thomas Jefferson), which 
was established in the Library of Congress. A variety of 
internal reforms ushered the digital age into the House and 
today is a vital resource for Members, staff and the American 
people.
    The Committee also made significant strides by starting the 
federal elections reform process. Chairman Thomas sponsored a 
host of campaign finance disclosure and Federal Elections 
Commission reform bills to modernize and update the federal 
election system. A procedure was also established for dealing 
with contested elections for Members of the House of 
Representatives.
    A central indicator of the success of the Committee under 
Chairman Thomas is the extent to which it has been able to 
effectively carry out its administrative, legislative, and 
operational functions. These operations are often measured by 
their shortcomings, gaining attention only when they fail. 
Today's Committee carries out its work in support of the 
legislative and representational missions of Congress smoothly, 
without precipitating controversies or requiring corrective 
actions.

                     106th Congress Oversight Plan


                            Member Services

     Oversee Member allowance amounts, structure, and 
regulations; provide guidance to offices to ensure compliance 
with House regulations.
     Review Members' Congressional Handbook regulations 
governing expenditure of Members' Representational Allowances.
     Review the formulas that establish the Members' 
Representational Allowance.
     Review processing of vouchers and payroll.

                    Committee Funding and Oversight

     Continuing review of biennial and consolidated 
funding resolutions for committees.
     Receive and review Monthly Reports on committee 
activities and expenditures.
     Review Committees' Congressional Handbook 
regulations governing expenditure of committee funds.
     Review Primary Expense Resolutions and approve 
committee-funding levels.
     Review rules and regulations associated with 
administration of the reserve fund for unexpected oversight 
activities of committees.

     Implementation of the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995

     Monitor implementation of the Congressional 
Accountability Act of 1995 (PL 104-1).
     Review regulations adopted by the Office of 
Compliance.
     Evaluate resources available to the Office of 
Compliance and House Employing Offices to facilitate 
implementation of the Act.
     Provide oversight for the Office of Compliance.
     Review the Congressional Accountability Act.

                          Franking Commission

     Review proposals to reform mass mailing practices 
of Members, and regulations governing such mailings, and 
monitor current prohibition on mass mailings 90 days before a 
primary or general election.
     Review previously implemented rules to increase 
disclosure and improve the accounting of franked mail costs.
     Consider revisions of pre-election franking 
complaint procedures.
     Review regulation of Unsolicited Mass 
Communications.
     Review alternatives to the District Office Franked 
Mail Certifications for recording and reporting franked mail 
usage in district offices.

                       Government Printing Office

     Consider legislation to reform government printing 
by eliminating redundancies, increasing efficiency, and 
enhancing public access to government publications.
     Gather information on the restructuring of 
government printing and the dissemination of government 
information to the public, especially in electronic form.
     Track the implementation of the Booz-Allen study 
required in the FY99 Appropriations bill.
     Conduct Oversight of the Government Printing 
Office.

                  House Officers and House Operations

     Analyze management improvement proposals and other 
initiatives submitted by the House Officers, the Inspector 
General and the Architect of the Capitol.
     Coordinate with the Subcommittee on Legislative 
Appropriations on matters impacting operations of the House and 
joint entities.
     Provide policy guidance to the House Officers, 
Inspector General and the Joint entities as appropriate.
     Oversee compliance with the House Employee 
Classification Act, 2 U.S.C. 291, et seq.
     Assure coordination among officers and joint 
entities on administrative matters.

Chief Administrative Officer

     Review procedures for processing contracts with 
the House that exceed the threshold of $100,000.
     Continue to review implementation of new financial 
management system.
     Review the structure of House Information 
Resources and determine organizational direction.
     Review new technology initiatives to better serve 
Members, Committees, and the House.
     Review the process for approving equipment 
purchases by members and committees.
     Continue review of functions and administrative 
operations assigned to the CAO.
     Review semi-annual financial and operational 
status reports; recommend changes in operations to improve 
services and increase efficiencies.

Clerk of the House

     Review the administration of the audio 
transmission on the House floor.
     Review and approve contracts and requests for 
proposals for the Clerk which exceed the $100,000 spending 
threshold.
     Review plans for the implementation of the 
document management system.
     Review progress steps towards defining a standard 
for the electronic exchange of legislative information among 
Congress and legislative branch agencies.
     Continue review of functions and administrative 
operations assigned to the Clerk.
     Review of semi-annual financial and operational 
status reports; recommend changes in operations to improve 
services and increase efficiencies.

Sergeant at Arms

     Review security operations in the House, including 
the House chamber, the galleries, the Capitol, House Office 
Buildings, and Capitol Grounds.
     Review semi-annual financial and operational 
status reports; recommend changes in operations to improve 
services and increase efficiencies.
     Review impact of electronic access to controlled 
spaces.
     Continuing review of functions and administrative 
operations assigned to the Sergeant at Arms.
     Review the security operation of the House's 
parking facilities, its regulations and allocation of parking 
spaces.
     Analyze U.S. Capitol Police Board plans for the 
spending of $106.7 million for the enhancement in Capitol 
campus security as authorized by the Omnibus Appropriations Act 
of 1999.

Inspector General

     Review proposed audit plan and audit reports.
     Review comprehensive financial and operational 
audits of the House: investigate any irregularities uncovered; 
and monitor the required improvements.
     Monitor progress of House audits.

                Oversight of Legislative Branch Entities

Information and Technology Coordination

     Oversee, in conjunction with the Senate, forums 
for the sharing of technology plans and capabilities among the 
legislative branch agencies.
     Oversee, in conjunction with the Senate, the 
Legislative Branch Telecommunications group.
     Oversee, in conjunction with the Senate, plans for 
the implementation and growth of the Legislative Information 
System.

Library of Congress

     Oversee the remedial measures taken by the Library 
in response to the audit conducted in the 104th Congress.
     Consider the Library's proposals regarding 
restructuring of the Gift and Trust funds.
     Conduct a review of the progress that the Library 
has made in providing public access to government information, 
especially in electronic form.
     Continuing oversight of Library and Congressional 
Research Service operations.
     Continuing review of the preparations for the 
Culpeper Film Preservation Facility by the Library.
     Examine options to improve the operation and 
structure of the Library Inspector General.

Smithsonian Institution

     Review the Smithsonian Inspector General's reports 
on the status of the Smithsonian.
     Continuing oversight of Smithsonian operations.

Architect of the Capitol

     Review the operations of the office of the 
architect, consider a systems and financial audit of the 
operation as a whole to provide a baseline for the 
administration of the new Architect.
     Review the electronic and procured services 
provided by the Architect.
     In conjunction with the Senate and other 
appropriate House Committees, oversee the preparations for the 
construction of the proposed Capitol Visitor's Center.

                      Technology Use by the House

     Continuing oversight of House Information 
Resources and other technology functions of the House to ensure 
timely, accurate electronic information dissemination.
     Oversee implementation of House Rule XI 2(e)(4) 
requiring committee documentation to be made available 
electronically, to the maximum extent feasible.
     Oversee the continuing efforts of the House to 
prepare for the Year 2000 computer problem.

          Elections, Voter Registration, and Corrupt Practices

     Conduct a review of current operations of the 
Federal Election Commission and evaluate possible changes to 
improve efficiency, strengthen enforcement of the Federal 
Election Campaign Act, and improve procedures for the 
disclosure of contributions and expenditures.
     Review state and federal activities in connection 
with the National Voter Registration Act. Examine reforms that 
could improve voter registration procedures, particularly with 
regard to strengthening protection against fraud.
     Examine evidence of fraud in the conduct of 
federal elections and evaluate measures to improve the 
integrity of the electoral process.
     Examine evidence of possible corruption and 
evasion of election laws in campaign fundraising, including 
contributions from prohibited foreign sources.
     Study the role of involuntary contributions used 
for expenditures that influence political campaigns.
     Review current federal election financing laws and 
consider legislative changes as necessary.
                                                       Calendar No. 618
106th Congress                                                   Report
                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
 2nd Session                                                   106-1056

======================================================================



 
   REPORT ON THE ACTIVITIES OF THE COMMITTEE ON HOUSE ADMINISTRATION

                                _______
                                

  January 2, 2001.--Committee of the Whole House on the State of the 
                    Union and ordered to be printed

                                _______
                                

 Mr. Thomas, from the Committee on House Administration, submitted the 
                               following

                              R E P O R T

                             together with

                     MINORITY AND ADDITIONAL VIEWS

   REPORT OF THE ACTIVITIES OF THE COMMITTEE ON HOUSE ADMINISTRATION 
                       DURING THE 106TH CONGRESS


                    Summary of Oversight Activities


                             first session

The Committee met on January 7, 1999--Business Meeting

    1. The Committee introduced the 106th Congress Committee on 
House Administration Members.
    2. The Committee considered the 106th Congress Committee on 
House Administration Rules. A Motion to adopt the rules was 
agreed to by voice vote.
    3. The Committee was notified of action and approval taken 
under Interim Authority.
          (a) Judiciary Committee Consultant Contracts with 
        David P. Schippers & Associates, Chartered and R.S. 
        Hoover & Associates.
          (b) Extensions to the Select Committee on China 
        Consultant Contracts with the Washington Advisory 
        Group, LLC, and Dechert, Price & Rhoads.
          (c) The User's Guide to Equipment Software and 
        Related Services.
          (d) The Universal Resource Locator Regulations.
    4. The Committee considered the Members' Representational 
Allowance for 1999. The MRAs were approved by unanimous voice 
vote.
    5. The Committee considered the Managers' consultant 
contracts for the Impeachment Trial of William J. Clinton, 
President of the United States. The contracts were agreed to by 
voice vote.

The Committee met on February 3, 1999--Business Meeting

    1. Minority Amendments to the 106th Congress Rules of the 
Committee on House Administration.
    2. Committee Resolution Approving the 106th Congress 
Oversight Plan.
    3. Committee Resolution Approving a Drug Testing Policy for 
the House of Representatives.
    4. Consideration of the Committee on House Administration 
minority consultant contract.
    5. Committee Resolution Approving Unsolicited Mass 
Communications Regulations.

The Committee met on February 10, 1999--Business Meeting

    1. Committee Resolution: Appointing Members to the Joint 
Committee on the Library and to the Joint Committee on 
Printing.
    2. Committee Resolution: Approving the 106th Congress 
Budget Request.
    3. Consideration of Select Committee on U.S. National 
Security and Military/Commercial concerns with the People's 
Republic of China consultant contracts.
    4. Consideration of a contract for the purchase of a New 
Member Payroll System from Lawson Software.

The Committee met on February 24, 1999

    Closed Meeting:
          1. Consideration of the U.S. Capitol Police Security 
        Enhancement Plan.
          2. Consideration of the Capitol Perimeter Security 
        Improvement Plan.

The Committee met on March 3, 1999--Committee Funding Hearing

    The Committee heard testimony from the Chairman and Ranking 
Minority Member of the following House committees concerning 
their proposed budgets for the 106th Congress:
    1. House Administration Committee
          Mr. Bill Thomas, Chairman
          Mr. Steny Hoyer, Ranking Minority Member
    2. International Relations Committee
          Mr. Benjamin A. Gilman, Chairman
          Mr. Sam Gejdenson, Ranking Minority Member
    3. Standards of Official Conduct Committee
          Mr. Lamar Smith, Chairman
          Mr. Howard Berman, Ranking Minority Member
    4. Science Committee
          Mr. F. James Sensenbrenner, Jr., Chairman
          Mr. George E. Brown, Jr., Ranking Minority Member
    5. Budget Committee
          Mr. John Kasich, Chairman
          Mr. John Spratt, Ranking Minority Member
    6. Veterans' Affairs Committee
          Mr. Bob Stump, Chairman
          Mr. Lane Evans, Ranking Minority Member
    7. Transportation and Infrastructure Committee
          Mr. Bud Shuster, Chairman
          Mr. James L. Oberstar, Ranking Minority Member
    8. Banking and Financial Services Committee
          Mr. James A. Leach, Chairman
          Mr. John LaFalce, Ranking Minority Member

The Committee met on March 4, 1999--Committee Funding Hearing

    The Committee heard testimony from the chairman and ranking 
minority members of the following House committees concerning 
their proposed budgets for the 106th Congress:
    1. Small Business Committee
          Mr. James M. Talent, Chairman (Missouri)
          Ms. Nydia Velazquez, Ranking Minority Member (New 
        York)
    2. Resources Committee
          Mr. Don Young, Chairman (Arkansas)
          Mr. George Miller, Ranking Minority Member 
        (California)
    3. Judiciary Committee
          Mr. Henry J. Hyde, Chairman (Illinois)
          Mr. John Conyers, Jr., Ranking Minority Member 
        (Mississippi)
    4. Agriculture Committee
          Mr. Larry Combest, Chairman (Texas)
          Mr. Charles W. Stenholm, Ranking Minority Member 
        (Texas)
    5. Ways and Means Committee
          Mr. Bill Archer, Chairman (Texas)
          Mr. Charles Rangel, Ranking Minority Member (New 
        York)
    6. Intelligence Permanent Select Committee
          Mr. Porter Goss, Chairman (Florida)
          Mr. Julian Dixon, Ranking Minority Member 
        (California)
    7. Armed Services Committee
          Mr. Floyd Spence, Chairman (South Carolina)
          Mr. Ike Skelton, Ranking Minority Member (Missouri)
    8. Education and the Workforce Committee
          Mr. William F. Goodling, Chairman (Pennsylvania)
          Mr. William Clay, Ranking Minority Member (Missouri)
    9. Government Reform Committee
          Mr. Dan Burton, Chairman (Indiana)
          Mr. Henry A. Waxman, Ranking Minority Member 
        (California)
    10. Commerce Committee
          Mr. Thomas J. Bliley, Chairman (Virginia)
          Mr. John Dingell, Ranking Minority Member 
        (Mississippi)
    11. Rules Committee
          Mr. David Dreier, Chairman (California)
          Mr. John Moakley, Ranking Minority Member 
        (Massachusetts)

The Committee met on March 10, 1999--Business Meeting

    1. Consideration of the 106th Congress Franked Mail 
Allocation for Committees. Set and Approved by Resolution.
    2. Consideration of the Architect of the Capitol 
Reengineering Plan for FY 99. Approved by Resolution.
    3. Consideration of the Committee on House Administration 
Parking Policy. Approved by Resolution. Resolved further 
Chairman may in consultation with Ranking Minority Member 
direct changes in the policy as necessary.
    4. Consideration of the House of Representatives Inspector 
General Audits for 1999. Approved by Resolution.
    5. Acceptance of the Officer's Semi-Annual Reports.
    6. Consideration of Revised Reserve Fund Guidelines. 
Approved by Resolution. Resolved further Chairman may in 
consultation with the Ranking Minority Member direct changes in 
these guidelines as necessary.

The Committee met on March 16, 1999--Mark-Up

    The Committee met to consider H. Res. 101, 106th Congress 
Omnibus Committee Primary Expense Resolution. Mr. Boehner 
introduced the leadership mark as an amendment in the nature of 
a substitute. Mr. Hoyer introduced two amendments. The first 
amendment required that one-third or greater of any amount 
allocated from the Reserve Fund be paid at the direction of the 
Ranking Minority Member. The second amendment required that 
one-third or greater of any amount authorized to committees, 
except the Committee on Standards of Official Conduct, be paid 
at the direction of the Ranking Minority Member. Both 
amendments failed by roll call vote. The amendment in the 
nature of a substitute introduced by Mr. Boehner was agreed to 
by roll call vote. H. Res. 101, as amended, was reported 
favorably to the House by voice vote.

The Committee met on March 25, 1999--Hearing on United States Capitol 
        Police Management

    The Committee heard testimony from the following:
          1. Robert Gramling, U.S. Government Accounting Office
          2. John D. Mayer, Project Manager, Booz-Allan & 
        Hamilton
          3. James W. Ziglar, Chairman of the U.S. Capitol 
        Police Board
          4. Gary L. Abrecht, Chief of Police

April 1, 1999--Committee Poll

    Approved 8-0 contract extensions for the Select Committee 
on U.S. National Security and Military/Commercial concerns with 
The People's Republic of China.

The Committee met on May 18, 1999--Federal Election Commission 
        Authorization Hearing

    Witnesses (Independent Auditors):
          1. Kevin Bacon, Partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers
          2. Stephen Watson, Director, PricewaterhouseCoopers
          3. Ray Mayfield, Principal Consultant, 
        Pricewaterhouse- 
        Coopers
    Witnesses (Commissioners):
          1. Scott E. Thomas, Chairman, Federal Election 
        Commission
          2. Darryl Wold, Vice Chairman, Federal Election 
        Commission
          3. Danny Lee McDonald, Federal Election Commission

May 25, 1999--Committee Poll--Contract Amendments

    The Committee approved (9-0) amendments to 3 contract 
agreements between the Select Committee on U.S. National 
Security Military/Commercial Concerns with the People's 
Republic of China and Bahler Communications, Dechert Price & 
Rhoads, and Briggs Design Associates.

The Committee met on June 17, 1999--Campaign Reform Hearing

    Witnesses:
          1. The Honorable Wayne Gilchrest
          2. The Honorable Ken Calvert
          3. The Honorable Martin Sabo

The Committee met on June 22, 1999--Committee Business Meeting

    The Committee Considered and Approved the following items:
          1. House Officer Drug Free Workplace Policies
          2. FEMA-US Capitol Police Agreement
          3. Liability Policy for Equipment Assigned to House 
        Officers
          4. Purchase Approval Threshold Increase
          5. Systems Development Life Cycle Policy
          6. CHA Majority Consultant Contracts with Baker & 
        Hostetler
          7. Members' Congressional Handbook

The Committee met on June 29, 1999--Campaign Reform Hearing

    Witnesses:
          1. The Honorable Christopher Shays
          2. The Honorable Asa Hutchinson
          3. The Honorable Ralph Regula
          4. The Honorable Patsy Mink
          5. The Honorable Paul Gilmor
          6. The Honorable John Tanner
          7. The Honorable Robert Andrews

The Committee met on July 13, 1999--Campaign Reform Hearing

    Witnesses:
          1. The Honorable David Dreier
          2. The Honorable John Doolittle
          3. The Honorable Dan Burton
          4. The Honorable Doug Bereuter
          5. The Honorable Joseph Pitts
          6. The Honorable Bill Goodling
          7. The Honorable David Price
          8. The Honorable Ron Paul
          9. The Honorable Wes Watkins

The Committee met on July 22, 1999--Campaign Reform Hearing

    Witnesses:
          1. Roger Pilon, Director, Center for Constitutional 
        Studies, CATO Institute
          2. Laura Murphy, Legislative Director, American Civil 
        Liberties Union
          3. Don Simon, Acting President, Common Cause
          4. Jim Miller, Author of Monopoly Politics, Former 
        Director OMB
          5. Burt Neuborne, Director, Brennan Center for Law 
        and Justice
          6. James Bopp, James Madison Center for Free Speech
          7. Bob Dahl, Fair Government Foundation
          8. Paul Sullivan, Americans Back in Charge Foundation
          9. David O'Steen, Executive Director, Campaign for 
        America
          10. Cheryl Perrin, Executive Director, Campaign for 
        America
          11. Amy Kauffman, Research Fellow, Hudson Institute
          12. Kathleen Hall Jamieson, Dean, Annenberg School of 
        Communication

The Committee met on August 2, 1999--Committee Markup-Campaign Reform

    1. Markup of H.R. 2668, Campaign Reform and Election 
Integrity Act of 1999--Reported Favorably.
    2. Markup of H.R. 1922, Citizen Legislature and Political 
Freedom Act--Reported without recommendation.
    3. Markup of H.R. 1867, Campaign Integrity Act of 1999--
Reported without recommendation.
    4. Markup of H.R. 417, Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 
1999--Reported Unfavorably.

Committee Poll August 4, 1999--Committee Business

    The following items were approved by committee poll 
unanimously:
    1. Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence Contract 
Agreement.
    2. Committees' Congressional Handbook.
    3. Committee and Event Room Security Standards. (HISPUB 
009.09)

October 21, 1999--Committee Business Meeting

    The following were considered and approved:
    1. Acceptance of Officers' Semi-annual Reports.
    2. Consideration of Chief Administrative Officer's Proposal 
for Procuring a House
    Financial System.
    3. Consideration of Chief Administrative Officer's Proposal 
for Procuring a Staff Payroll System.
    4. Consideration of Telecommuting Policy.
    5. Consideration of updated House Information Security 
Policies (HISPOL).
    6. Consideration of Incidental Use Policy.
    7. Consideration of Interim Authority Resolution.

October 26, 1999--Committee Poll

    The following were approved by committee poll:
    1. Amendment to Contract Agreement between the Permanent 
Select Committee on Intelligence and First Security of Boston 
extending the date of contract from October 31, 1999 through 
April 1, 2000.
    2. Committee Resolution Adopting the House Information 
Security Policy 5.1 establishing minimum-security standards for 
permanent connections to the House network.

                             SECOND SESSION

January 20, 2000--Committee Poll

    The following items were approved by Committee Poll:
    1. Contract Agreement between the Committee on House 
Administration Majority and Baker & Hostetler, LLP. (General 
election issues).
    2. Contract agreement between the Committee on House 
Administration Majority and Baker & Hostetler, LLP. (Contested 
election issues).
    3. Contract agreement between the Committee on House 
Administration Minority and Herb Stone.

The Committee met on March 8, 2000--Committee Business Meeting

    1. Announcement of Actions taken under Interim Authority.
    2. Announcement of Revisions to Members' Congressional 
Handbook.
    3. Announcement of Revisions to Committees' Congressional 
Handbook.
    4. Acceptance of House Officers' Semi Annual Reports.
    5. Consideration and Approval of the House of 
Representatives Inspector General Audits for 2000.

The Committee met on March 29, 2000--Federal Election Commission 
        Authorization Hearing

    Witnesses:
          1. Darryl Wold, Chairman, Federal Election 
        Commission.
          2. Danny Lee McDonald, Vice Chairman, Federal 
        Election Commission, and Chairman, Federal Election 
        Commission Finance Committee.
          3. David Mason, Commissioner, Federal Election 
        Commission.

April 7, 2000--Committee Poll

    Committee approved consultant contract agreement between 
the Committee on Agriculture and John A. Jurich for 
investigations determined by the oversight agenda of the 
Committee on Agriculture.

The Committee met on June 28, 2000--Committee Business Meeting

    1. Consideration and Approval of Award of Contract for the 
House Financial System Replacement Requirements Analysis to 
Booz-Allan and Hamilton.
    2. Consideration of Committee Resolution Approving the 
Revised Unsolicited Mass Communication Restrictions Policy. 
Approval was deferred.
    3. Capitol Police Update on Security Enhancements.

The Committee met on September 21, 2000--Committee Business Meeting

    The Committee considered the following:
    1. Information Systems Security Program. Resolution 
Approving Program Adopted.
    2. Revised User's Guide to Equipment. Resolution Approving 
Revised Guide Adopted.
    3. Officers' Semi-Annual Reports. Accepted.
    4. Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence's Consultant 
Contract. Approved.
    5. Architect of the Capitol update on Fire Protection 
efforts in the House Office Buildings and House side of the 
Capitol.

The Committee met on October 12, 2000--Committee Business Meeting

    Consideration of Interim Authority Resolution. Approved.

November 6, 2000--Committee Poll

    Committee Poll on three separate contracts before the 
Committee. All Approved.
    1. Contract with Herb Stone to assist Democratic Members of 
the Committee with contested election issues through January 2, 
2001.
    2. Contract with Patton Boggs, L.L.P. to assist Democratic 
Members of the Committee with contested election issues through 
January 2, 2001.
    3. Contract with Robert Hunter to assist Republican Members 
of the Committee with contested election issues through January 
2, 2001.

November 28, 2000--Committee Poll

    Committee approved Amendment to the Contract Agreement 
between the Committee on House Administration Majority and 
Baker & Hostetler.

       General Oversight Activities Throughout the 106th Congress


                     MEMBER AND COMMITTEE SERVICES

Members

     Oversee Member allowance amounts, structure, and 
regulations; provide guidance to offices to ensure compliance 
with House regulations.
     Review Members' Congressional Handbook regulations 
governing expenditure of Members' Representational Allowances.
     Answered questions regarding parking rules and 
assignments.
     Handled problems regarding allowance regulations. 
(In response to certain inquiries, the Committee created 
clarifying policy memoranda to the administrative offices of 
the House).
     Answered inquiries regarding service and support 
issues concerning House Information Resources (HIR) and 
Correspondent Management System (CMS) vendors.
     Oversaw the registration of Congressional Member 
Organizations, disseminating information and responding to 
questions accordingly.
     Respond to inquiries on Federal laws, House Rules 
and Committee regulations pertaining to the operation of Member 
offices.
     Calculated and issued authorization amounts for 
Member's Representational Allowances.
     Brief district office staff on use of official 
resources.
     Established seminars for House staff to address 
concerns related to issues under the Committee's jurisdiction.
     Provided advice to offices on personnel and 
employment issues, such as Accrued Leave, Drug Testing, and 
American with Disabilities Act Compliance.

Committees

     Answered inquiries regarding regulations governing 
the expenditures of committee funds.
     Reviewed and approved detail agreements.
     Received and reviewed monthly reports from the 
standing and select committees of the House.
     Continuing review of biennial and consolidated 
funding resolutions for committees.
     Oversee implementation of House Rule XI 2(e)(4) 
requiring committee documentation to be made available 
electronically, to the maximum extent feasible.

Commission on Mailing Standards

     The Franking Commission reviewed drafts of 
proposed mass mailings, issued written advisories on approved 
mailings, answered questions regarding specific mailings as 
well as general franking regulations and policy.
     Answered inquires from Member offices regarding 
compliance with the new Single Drop Mass Mail Obligation 
Requisition Form.
     Review all Unsolicited Mass Communications.
     Review proposals to reform mass mailing practices 
of Members, and regulations governing such mailings, and 
monitor current prohibition on mass mailings 90 days before a 
primary or general election.
     Review previously implemented rules to increase 
disclosure and improve the accounting of franked mail costs.
     Consider revisions of pre-election franking 
complaint procedures.
     Review alternatives to the District Office Franked 
Mail Certifications for recording and reporting franked mail 
usage in district offices.

                               ELECTIONS

General Election Issues

     Studied voter registration laws under the National 
Voter Registration Act of 1993.
     Handled inquiries from the public regarding 
campaign finance reform legislation.
     Distributed information on bills referred to the 
Committee and summaries of campaign finance reform bills from 
previous Congresses.
     Reviewed, monitored, and studied legislation 
introduced on election reform issues.

Federal Election Commission

     Monitored the appointment process of Commissioners 
to the Federal Election Commission.
     Handled inquiries and gathered information on FEC 
oversight issues.
     Conduct a review of current operations of the 
Federal Election Commission and evaluate possible changes to 
improve efficiency, strengthen enforcement of the Federal 
Election Campaign Act, and improve procedures for the 
disclosure of contributions and expenditures.

           OVERSIGHT OF HOUSE OFFICERS AND INSPECTOR GENERAL

General

     Track the implementation of the Booz-Allen study 
required in the FY99 Appropriations bill.
     Analyze management improvement proposals and other 
initiatives submitted by the House Officers, the Inspector 
General and the Architect of the Capitol.
     Coordinate with the Subcommittee on Legislative 
Appropriations on matters impacting operations of the House and 
joint entities.
     Provide policy guidance to the House Officers, 
Inspector General and the Joint entities as appropriate.
     Assure coordination among officers and joint 
entities on administrative matters.

Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)

     Provided policy direction for and oversight of the 
CAO.
     Reviewed and revised service contracts with the 
House.
     Reviewed and evaluated equipment purchases over 
$100,000 by Members and committees.
     Review the structure of House Information 
Resources and determine organizational direction.
     Review the process for approving equipment 
purchases by members and committees.
     Continue review of functions and administrative 
operations assigned to the CAO.
     Oversee compliance with the House Employee 
Classification Act, 2 U.S.C. 291, et seq.
     Continuing oversight of House Information 
Resources and other technology functions of the House to ensure 
timely, accurate electronic information dissemination.

Clerk of the House

     Provided policy direction and oversight of the 
Clerk.
     Reviewed and approved contracts and requests for 
proposals for the Clerk which exceed the $100,000 spending 
threshold.
     Coordinated and worked with Congressional Research 
Service, the Clerk of the House and HIR staff to implement the 
new Legislative Information System.
     Worked with the Clerk of the House and Secretary 
of the Senate Task Force to implement a data standard for 
information exchange for the Legislative Branch.
     Continue review of functions and administrative 
operations assigned to the Clerk.

Sergeant-at-Arms

     Provided policy direction for and oversight of the 
Sergeant-at-Arms.
     Monitored pending litigation involving the U.S. 
Capitol Police.
     Continuing review of functions and administrative 
operations assigned to the Sergeant at Arms.
     Review security operations in the House, including 
the House chamber, the galleries, the Capitol, House Office 
Buildings, Parking Facilities, and Capitol Grounds.

Inspector General

     Provided policy direction for and oversight of the 
Inspector General.

                      LEGISLATIVE BRANCH AGENCIES

Library of Congress

     Biweekly meetings with the library to review 
operations, budgetary concerns, and management concerns.
     Reviewed and answered inquiries on Library of 
Congress security issues.
     Continuing oversight of Library and Congressional 
Research Service operations.
     Oversee the remedial measures taken by the Library 
in response to the audit conducted in the 104th Congress.
     Conduct a review of the progress that the Library 
has made in providing public access to government information, 
especially in electronic form.

Government Printing Office

     Worked with representatives of the Legislative 
Branch Appropriation Subcommittee and the Government Printing 
Office (GPO) to discuss budget requirements for GPO.
     Monitored legislation to reform Title 44 of the 
U.S. Code relating to government printing and dissemination of 
government information to the public.
     Gather information on the restructuring of 
government printing and the dissemination of government 
information to the public, especially in electronic form.

Smithsonian Institution

     Reviewed the Smithsonian Institution's draft 
Strategic Plan developed in response to the Government 
Performance and Results Act.
     Continuing oversight of Smithsonian operations.
     Review the Smithsonian Inspector General's reports 
on the status of the Smithsonian.

Office of Compliance

     Monitor implementation of the Congressional 
Accountability Act of 1995 (PL 104-1).
     Conduct oversight of the Office of Compliance.
     Processed requests for authority to settle cases 
pending before the Office of Compliance.

Architect of the Capitol

     Worked with Architect of the Capitol staff to 
discuss their plans for a Computer Assisted Facilities 
Management (CAFM) system.
     In conjunction with the Senate and other 
appropriate House Committees, oversee the preparations for the 
construction of the proposed Capitol Visitor's Center.
     Consider a systems and financial audit of the 
operation as a whole to provide a baseline for the 
administration of the new Architect.

Technology

     Oversee, in conjunction with the Senate, forums 
for the sharing of technology plans and capabilities among the 
legislative branch agencies.
     Review new technology initiatives to better serve 
Members, Committees, and the House.
     Review progress steps towards defining a standard 
for the electronic exchange of legislative information among 
Congress and legislative branch agencies.
     Oversee the continuing efforts of the House to 
prepare for the Year 2000 computer problem.

General

     Answered press inquiries regarding issues under 
the Committee's jurisdiction.
     Enrolled House bills and resolutions.
     Processed vouchers for payment under the Federal 
Tort Claims Act and the Military Personnel and Civilian 
Employees Claims Act.
     Worked with foreign congressional delegations to 
discuss issues related to the Committee and the House.
     Worked closely with the Legislative Branch 
Subcommittee on appropriations matters.
     Oversee, in conjunction with the Senate, the 
Legislative Branch Telecommunications group.
     Oversee, in conjunction with the Senate, plans for 
the implementation and growth of the Legislative Information 
System.
     Review semi-annual financial and operational 
status reports; recommend changes in operations to improve 
services and increase efficiencies.
     Continue to review implementation of new financial 
management system.

                             First Session

January 1999

     Review the formulas that establish the Members' 
Representational Allowance.
     Review processing of vouchers and payroll.
     Committee adopted policy requiring Franking 
Advisories for all Unsolicited Mass Communications.
     Review Committees' Congressional Handbook  
regulations governing expenditure of committee funds.
     Review Primary Expense Resolutions and approve 
committee-funding levels.
     Review rules and regulations associated with 
administration of the reserve fund for unexpected oversight 
activities of committees.
     Review plans for the implementation of the 
document management system.
     Analyze U.S. Capitol Police Board plans for the 
spending of $106.7 million for the enhancement in Capitol 
campus security as authorized by the Omnibus Appropriations Act 
of 1999.
     Review comprehensive financial and operational 
audits of the House: investigate any irregularities uncovered; 
and monitor the required improvements.
     Review preparations for the Culpeper Film 
Preservation Facility by the Library.
     Examine options to improve the operation and 
structure of the Library Inspector General.
     Oversee implementation of House Rule XI 2(e)(4) 
requiring committee documentation to be made available 
electronically, to the maximum extent feasible.
     Met with GAO and Representatives of the Accounting 
firm of Price Waterhouse Coopers to review results of the 
Independent Technology and Performance Audit and Management 
Review of the Federal Election Commission.
     Examine reforms that could improve voter 
registration procedures, particularly with regard to 
strengthening protection against fraud.
     Met with members of Joint Election Officers 
Liaison Committee to discuss State and local election official 
perspectives on reform of voter registration laws.
     Study the role of involuntary contributions used 
for expenditures that influence political campaigns.
     Met with Member of Peruvian Congress to discuss 
operations of the Committee.

February 1999

     Committee adopted policy requiring Franking 
Advisories for all Unsolicited Mass Communications.
     Reviewed 106th Congress budget requests submitted 
by all House Committees, excluding the Appropriations 
Committee.
     Review previously implemented rules to increase 
disclosure and improve the accounting of franked mail costs.
     Consider revisions of pre-election franking 
complaint procedures.
     Review alternatives to the District Office Franked 
Mail Certifications for recording and reporting franked mail 
usage in district offices.
     Review the administration of the audio 
transmission on the House floor.
     Review plans for the implementation of the 
document management system.
     Review House ID Card policies and procedures.
     Review proposed audit plan and audit reports.
     Review comprehensive financial and operational 
audits of the House: investigate any irregularities uncovered; 
and monitor the required improvements.
     Review the Library's FY '00 Budget request.
     Analyze Library's 106th Congress legislative 
agenda.
     Review and evaluate proposal of Buyout plan for 
certain Architect employees.
     Examine reforms that could improve voter 
registration procedures, particularly with regard to 
strengthening protection against fraud.
     Reviewed correspondences on military voting 
rights.
     Met with Postal Service representatives, Postal 
Service Subcommittee staff, and election officials to discuss 
proposal to establish a special, postal rate for election 
officials.
     Study the role of involuntary contributions used 
for expenditures that influence political campaigns.

March 1999

     Reviewed 106th Congress budget requests submitted 
by all House Committees, excluding the Appropriations 
Committee. Receive and review Monthly Reports on committee 
activities and expenditures.
     Review and evaluate proposal of Buyout plan for 
certain Architect employees.
     Prepared plans for FEC Authorization Hearing.
     Reviewed materials on Missouri contribution limits 
case.
     Discussed election law conferences with Dave Scott 
of Council of State Governments.
     Examine evidence of fraud in the conduct of 
federal elections and evaluate measures to improve the 
integrity of the electoral process.
     Reviewed, monitored, and studied legislation 
introduced on campaign finance reform and discussed possible 
bills to be proposed.
     Review state and federal activities in connection 
with the National Voter Registration Act.

April 1999

     Committee adopted policy requiring Franking 
Advisories for all Unsolicited Mass Communications.
     Track the implementation of the Booz-Allen study 
required in the FY99 Appropriations bill.
     Analyze management improvement proposals and other 
initiatives submitted by the House Officers, the Inspector 
General and the Architect of the Capitol.
     Review plans for the implementation of the 
document management system.
     Monitor progress of House audits.
     Oversee the remedial measures taken by the Library 
in response to the audit conducted in the 104th Congress.
     Continuing oversight of House Information 
Resources and other technology functions of the House to ensure 
timely, accurate electronic information dissemination.
     Oversee implementation of House Rule XI 2(e)(4) 
requiring committee documentation to be made available 
electronically, to the maximum extent feasible.
     Discussed plans for FEC Authorization Hearing, 
including distribution of FEC response to audit implementation 
to outside experts.
     Analyzed interaction of Federal and California 
election law with regards to 2000 elections.
     Responded to American Bar Association regarding 
campaign finance laws.
     Reviewed military voting rights initiative and 
Internet voting initiatives.

May 1999

     Receive and review Monthly Reports on committee 
activities and expenditures.
     Reviewed House Officer Drug Free Workplace 
Policies.
     Reviewed House Officer Equipment Management 
Policies.
     Reviewed proposed agreement between FEMA and the 
USCP Board.
     Reviewed revisions to the House Procurement 
Guidelines.
     Review security operations in the House, including 
the House chamber, the galleries, the Capitol, House Office 
Buildings, and Capitol Grounds.
     Continued with House IG search process.
     Review the Library's FY '00 Budget request.
     Analyze Library's 106th Congress legislative 
agenda.
     Wrote to the Architect of the Capitol on 
management of statues in the Capitol.
     Met with election officials, Minority staff, and 
Rep. Ney's staff to discuss and analyze proposed legislation to 
improve voting access for the elderly and disabled.

June 1999

     Held Campaign Reform Hearing.
     Attended Election Center Conference on voting 
access for the disabled.
     Continued analyzing proposed legislation to 
improve voting access for the elderly and disabled.
     Met with officials from Congo to discuss election 
laws.
     Reviewed legislation introduced on campaign 
finance reform and discussed possible bills to be proposed.
     Held FEC Authorization Hearing.

July 1999

     Answer correspondence and research requests for 
processing GPO tasks.
     Approved House Officer Drug Free Workplace 
Policies.
     Approved House Officer Equipment Management 
Policies.
     Approved proposed agreement between FEMA and the 
USCP Board.
     Approved revisions to the House Procurement 
Guidelines.
     Raised procedures for processing contracts with 
the House that exceed the threshold of $250,000.
     Continued with House IG search process.
     Held Campaign Reform Hearing to discuss and 
analyze campaign reform bills referred to the Committee.
     Propose H.R. 2668, ``Campaign Reform and Election 
Integrity Act of 1999''.
     Monitor Treasury Postal Appropriations, dealing 
with Federal Election Commission recommendations.
     Review and discuss, with election officials, 
voting system standards.
     Review and analyze Department of Defense 
Appropriations bill, specifically provisions regarding military 
voting rights.

August 1999

     Receive and review Monthly Reports on committee 
activities and expenditures.
     Approved and distributed the 1999 edition of the 
Committees' Congressional Handbook, which governs the 
expenditure of committee funds.
     Held Campaign Reform Markup to consider campaign 
reform bills H.R. 417, Bipartisan Campaign Finance Reform Act 
of 1999; H.R. 1867, Campaign Integrity Act of 1999; H.R. 1922, 
Citizen Legislature and Political Freedom Act; and H.R. 2668, 
Campaign Reform and Election Integrity Act of 1999.
     Review legislation dealing with disabled voting 
rights.

September 1999

     Draft incidental use of official resources policy.
     Draft telecommuting policy.
     Monitor Transition of New Board Appointments to 
the Office of Compliance.
     Review and Approval of end of year procurement 
contracts.
     Review and propose House ID Card policies and 
procedures.
     Monitor progress of House audits.
     Continued with House IG search process.
     Managed floor consideration of campaign finance 
reform proposals.
     Reviewed proposal to prohibit regulation of 
Internet campaigning.

October 1999

     Analyzed Senate debate on McCain-Feingold Campaign 
Finance Reform Bill.
     Met with Oregon's State Treasurer to discuss ``pay 
to play'' rules.
     Monitored ongoing census activity, and attended a 
briefing on cooperation between the House and Census Bureau.

November 1999

     Review the formulas that establish the Members' 
Representational Allowance.
     Calculate the 2000 MRA amounts.
     Oversee Committee budgets and regulations; provide 
guidance to offices to ensure compliance with House 
regulations.
     Research the acquisition of the Martin Luther 
King, Jr. papers.
     Research contested election reform proposals.

December 1999

     Calculate and Issue the 2000 MRA amounts.
     Support Y2K remediation efforts in Member Offices, 
especially in districts.
     Monitor committee hearing room upgrades.
     Monitor implementation of the PL 105-277 Security 
Enhancement Plan.
     Monitor implementation of the recommendations of 
the GAO management review.

                             second session

January 2000

     Support Y2K remediation efforts in Member Offices, 
especially in districts.
     Receive and review Monthly Reports on committee 
activities and expenditures.
     Monitor Transition of New Board Appointments to 
Office of Compliance.
     Answer correspondence and research requests for 
processing GPO tasks.
     Review JCP Regulations.
     Review comprehensive financial and operational 
audits of the House: investigate any irregularities uncovered; 
and monitor the required improvements.
     Monitor committee hearing room upgrades.
     Monitor implementation of the PL 105-277 Security 
Enhancement Plan.
     Monitor implementation of the recommendations of 
the GAO management review.

February 2000

     Oversee Committee budgets and regulations; provide 
guidance to offices to ensure compliance with House 
regulations.
     Study Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking 
regarding Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998.
     Answer correspondence and research requests for 
processing GPO tasks.
     Review GPO Budget Request for FY2001.
     Review and research Title 44 for administrative 
changes.
     Review JCP Regulations for administrative changes.
     Monitor GPO and Fraternal Order of Police wage 
impasse.
     Request and monitor GAO audits on GPO related 
issues.
     Reviewed proposal to prohibit regulation of 
Internet campaigning.

March 2000

     Track the implementation of the Booz-Allen study 
required in the FY99 Appropriations bill.
     Review of semi-annual financial and operational 
status reports; recommend changes in operations to improve 
services and increase efficiencies.
     Review the electronic and procured services 
provided by the Architect.
     In conjunction with the Senate and other 
appropriate House Committees, oversee the preparations for the 
construction of the proposed Capitol Visitor's Center.

April 2000

     Monitor Transition of New Board Appointments to 
Office of Compliance.
     Study Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking 
regarding Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998.
     Review previously implemented rules to increase 
disclosure and improve the accounting of franked mail costs.
     Consider revisions of pre-election franking 
complaint procedures.
     Monitor GPO and Fraternal Order of Police wage 
impasse.
     Review the process for approving equipment 
purchases by members and committees.
     Study and review possible legislation at the 
federal or state level to reform redistricting procedures.
     Monitor and research developments on Internet 
voting issues.
     Study the Pentagon's decision to disallow military 
facilities to be used as voting sites.
     Review the Federal Election Commission's 
legislative recommendations regarding the Elimination Act and 
Treasury Postal Appropriations.

May 2000

     Oversee Library efforts to negotiate the purchase 
of the Martin Luther King, Jr. papers.
     Review preparations for the Library's yearlong 
bicentennial celebration.
     Oversee the Library's response to audit issues.
     Consider and pass House legislation on the 
appointments of citizen regents to the Smithsonian 
Institution's Board of Regents.
     Continue to monitor tax-exempt organizations 
involved in politics.
     Monitor military voting and residency issues and 
developments regarding military use of voting via the Internet.
     Review the Federal Election Commission's Final 
Rule implementing an Administrative Fines Program.
     Monitor and Provide Oversight Direction to Federal 
Election Commission Requesting the Implementation of 
Appropriate Terms and Conditions for FEC Supplied Electronic 
Filing Software.
     Monitor Proposed Rulemaking by the Federal 
Election Commission on Mandatory Electronic Filing, Election 
Cycle Reporting and Campaign Finance Reform.
     Research various options for conducting a field 
hearing in California regarding the impact of technology on the 
electoral process.

June 2000

     Monitor, review Senate Legislative Branch 
appropriations pertaining to the GPO, draft comments.
     Continue to review implementation of new financial 
management system.
     Review the structure of House Information 
Resources and determine organizational direction.
     Study and review legislation affecting the 
Smithsonian Institution and the creation of any new Smithsonian 
facilities.

July 2000

     Monitored developments on Internet voting.
     Monitor and provide analysis of campaign finance 
reform efforts by the Federal Election Commission and Congress.
     Study issues with regard to scheduling of national 
primaries.
     Study legislation proposed by Hoyer on contested 
elections.

August 2000

     Approved wage agreement reached by GPO management 
and Fraternal Order of Police.
     Review GPO requests for expenditures above 
$50,000, including purchase orders.
     Coordinate printing memorial tributes in 
accordance with Title 44.
     Review GPO audit, Inspector General semi-annual 
report.
     Review and draft proposed personnel policy statute 
changes (HEPCA).
     Draft Payroll Corrective Actions Policy.
     Research standards for Conflict of Interest in 
procurement process.
     Researched proper accounting of liquidated damages 
in Members' Representational Allowance funds.
     Assure coordination among officers and joint 
entities on administrative matters.
     Review activities related to the Library's 
yearlong bicentennial celebration.
     Review the Library's response to a report by the 
National Academy of Sciences regarding Information technology 
and the digital future of the Library.
     Meet with Library staff regarding LC21 information 
technology, Gerswin Trust Fund, and other outstanding LOC 
issues.

September 2000

     Prepare information for new member orientation 
program and departing members.
     Review and draft proposed personnel policy statute 
changes (HEPCA).
     Research standards for Conflict of Interest in 
procurement process.
     Review and draft proposed personnel policy statute 
changes (HEPCA).
     Draft Payroll Corrective Actions Policy.
     Review the Library's response to a report by the 
National Academy of Sciences regarding Information technology 
and the digital future of the Library.
     Oversee Library's acceptance of a $60 million gift 
by John Kluge.
     Review Smithsonian's request for appropriation/
authorization bill.
     Considered and adopted S. 2498, authorizing the 
Smithsonian Institution to plan, design, construct, and equip 
laboratory, administrative, and support space to house base 
operations for the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory 
Submillimeter Array located on Mauna Kea at Hilo, Hawaii.
     Considered and adopted S. 3201, which provides for 
the renaming of the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum 
of American Art to the Smithsonian American Art Museum.
     Oversee the House Information Resources and other 
technology functions of the House to ensure timely, accurate 
electronic information dissemination.

October 2000

     Considered and adopted S. 3201, which provides for 
the renaming of the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum 
of American Art to the Smithsonian American Art Museum.
     Conducted a series of training and orientation 
seminars for Congressional staff interested in participating as 
Congressional observers for contested elections.
     Examined and introduced bill regarding military 
voting and residency issues.
     Study legislation proposed on contested elections 
and other military facility bill.
     On October 27, 2000 President Clinton signed into 
law H.R. 4475, which included three FEC legislative reforms. 
The measure cleared Congress on October 6, 2000. These 
consensus reforms were the result of close cooperation between 
the Committee on House Administration and the Treasury Postal 
Subcommittee of the Appropriations Committee and are as 
follows:
          1. Require that independent expenditure reports must 
        be actually received by the FEC within 24 hours of the 
        expenditure. Prior law merely required that the reports 
        be filed within 24 hours.
          2. Clarify that fax machines or electronic mail may 
        be used to file last minute expenditure reports from 
        independent expenditure committees who are not required 
        to file electronically.
          3. Clarifying that Federal candidates may treat lines 
        of credit such as advances on brokerage accounts or 
        home equity lines of credit as commercially reasonable 
        loans and therefore use funds from such sources in 
        their campaigns.

November 2000

     Responded to requests for information on the 
Federal election and Electoral College presidential selection 
process.
     Requested a Congressional Research Service report 
on Congressional involvement in the Electoral College process, 
and posted the report on its web site.
     Pursuant to authority and responsibilities under 
Article One, Section 5 of the U.S. Constitution, dispatched 
official observers from both the Majority and Minority to 
observe the counting and recounting of ballots in the following 
Districts: Florida 22, New Jersey 12, Michigan 8, and Minnesota 
2.
     Coordinated orientation program for the newly 
elected Members of the 107th Congress.

December 2000

     Assisted with the transition of both departing and 
newly elected members.
     Monitor implementation of the recommendations of 
the GAO management review.
     Continued recount oversight in Michigan 8 and 
Minnesota 2.

                   Summary on Legislative Activities


The Committee met on March 16, 1999--Committee Mark-Up--H. Res. 101

    The Committee met to consider H. Res. 101, 106th Congress 
Omnibus Committee Primary Expense Resolution. Mr. Boehner 
introduced the leadership mark as an amendment in the nature of 
a substitute. Mr. Hoyer introduced two amendments. The first 
amendment required that one-third or greater of any amount 
allocated from the Reserve Fund be paid at the direction of the 
Ranking Minority Member. The second amendment required that 
one-third or greater of any amount authorized to committees, 
except the Committee on Standards of Official Conduct, be paid 
at the direction of the Ranking Minority Member. Both 
amendments failed by roll call vote. The amendment in the 
nature of a substitute introduced by Mr. Boehner was agreed to 
by roll call vote. H. Res. 101, as amended, was reported 
favorably to the House by voice vote.

The Committee met on May 18, 1999--Federal Election Commission 
        Authorization Hearing

    Witnesses (Independent Auditors):
          1. Kevin Bacon, Partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers
          2. Stephen Watson, Director, PricewaterhouseCoopers
          3. Ray Mayfield, Principal Consultant, 
        PricewaterhouseCoopers
    Witnesses (Commissioners):
          1. Scott E. Thomas, Chairman, Federal Election 
        Commission
          2. Darryl Wold, Vice Chairman, Federal Election 
        Commission
          3. Danny Lee McDonald, Federal Election Commission

The Committee met on August 2, 1999--Committee Markup--Campaign Reform

    1. Markup of H.R. 2668, Campaign Reform and Election 
Integrity Act of 1999--Reported Favorably.
    2. Markup of H.R. 1922, Citizen Legislature and Political 
Freedom Act--Reported without recommendation.
    3. Markup of H.R. 1867, Campaign Integrity Act of 1999--
Reported without recommendation.
    4. Markup of H.R. 417, Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 
1999--Reported Unfavorably.

                            Floor Activities


                             first session

    February 2, 1999--The House considered and passed H. Con. 
Res. 19 permitting use of the Capitol Rotunda for ceremony 
commemorating day of remembrance for victims of the Holocaust.
    February 8, 1999--Rules of the Committee on House 
Administration for the 106th Congress were submitted to the 
House.
    February 9, 1999--The House considered and passed S. Con. 
Res. 6 authorizing flags located in the Capitol complex to be 
flown at half-staff in memory of R. Scott Bates, Legislative 
Clerk of the United States Senate.
    February 11, 1999--The House considered and passed H.R. 705 
approving technical corrections regarding monthly reports 
submitted by the Postmaster General on official mail of the 
House of Representatives.
    March 23, 1999--The House considered H. Res. 101, as 
amended, providing amounts for the expenses of all standing 
committees (excluding Appropriations) and the Permanent Select 
Committee on Intelligence of the House of Representatives and 
funding for the reserve fund for the One Hundred and Fifth 
Congress. H. Res. 101, as amended, was agreed to.
    July 26, 1999--The House considered and passed H. Res. 172, 
making available for public use the records of the Select 
Committee on Missing Persons in Southeast Asia.
    September 1999--Floor Consideration of H.R. 417 (Bipartisan 
Campaign Finance Reform Act of 1999).
    On passage Passed by the Yeas and Nays: 252-177
    10 Perfecting and 3 Substitute Amendments were made in 
order and offered by:
    Perfecting:
          1. Mr. Whitfield--Failed by recorded vote: 127-300
          2. Mr. Doolittle--Failed by recorded vote: 123-302
          3. Mr. Doolittle--Failed by recorded vote: 189-238
          4. Mr. Bereuter--Agreed to by recorded vote: 242-181
          5. Mr. Faleomavaega--Agreed to by voice vote.
          6. Mr. Goodling--By unanimous consent, the Goodling 
        amendment was withdrawn.
          7. Mr. Calvert--Failed by recorded vote: 179-248
          8. Mr. Sweeney--Agreed to by recorded vote: 261-167
          9. Mr. DeLay--Failed by recorded vote: 160-268
          10. Mr. Ewing--Failed by recorded vote: 167-259
    Substitutes:
          1. Mr. Doolittle--Failed by recorded vote: 117-306
          2. Mr. Hutchison--Failed by recorded vote: 99-327
          3. Mr. Thomas--Failed by recorded vote: 173-256
    October 18, 1999--H. Con. Res. 196. Permitting use of the 
Rotunda of the Capitol for Presentation of Congressional Gold 
Medal to President and Mrs. Gerald R. Ford.--Passed.
    October 25, 1999--H.R. 2303. History of the House Awareness 
and Preservation Act.--Passed.
    October 25, 1999--H.R. 3122. Permitting Non-Congressional 
Federal Employees to Enroll Their Children in the House Child 
Care Center.--Passed.
    November 9, 1999--H.J. Res. 76. Waiving certain enrollment 
Requirements for the Remainder of the First Session of the 
106th Congress. Passed without Objection.
    November 9, 1999--H. Con. Res. 221. Authorizing printing of 
brochures entitled ``How Our Laws Are Made'' and ``Our American 
Government''; the pocket version of the United States 
Constitution, and the document-sized, annotated version of the 
United States Constitution. The Resolution was agreed to.

                             second session

    January 31, 2000--H. Con. Res. 244. Permitting the use of 
the rotunda of the Capitol for a ceremony as part of the 
commemoration of the days of remembrance of the victims of the 
Holocaust. Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays.
    January 31, 2000--H. Con. Res. 221. Authorizing printing of 
the brochures entitled ``How Our Laws Are Made'' and ``Our 
American Government'', the pocket version of the United States 
Constitution, and the document sized annotated version of the 
United States Constitution. Agreed to by voice vote.
    January 31, 2000--H. Res. 407 Permitting official 
photographs of the House of Representatives to be taken while 
the House is in actual session. Agreed to by voice vote.
    March 14, 2000--S. Con. Res. 89. To establish the Joint 
Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies for the 
inauguration of the President-elect and Vice President-elect of 
the United States on January 20, 2001. Agreed to by voice vote.
    March 14, 2000--S. Con. Res. 90. To authorize the use of 
the rotunda of the Capitol by the Joint Congressional Committee 
on Inaugural Ceremonies in connection with the proceedings and 
ceremonies conducted for the inauguration of the President-
elect and Vice President-elect of the United States. Agreed to 
by voice vote.
    March 28, 2000--H. Con. Res. 269. Commending the Library of 
Congress for 200 Years of Outstanding Service. Agreed to by 
voice vote.
    May 2, 2000--S.J. Res. 40. A joint resolution providing for 
the appointment of Alan G. Spoon as a citizen regent of the 
Board of Regents of the Smithsonian Institution. Agreed to by 
voice vote. Became Public Law No: 106-198.
    May 2, 2000--S.J. Res. 42. A joint resolution providing for 
the reappointment of Manuel L. Ibanez as a citizen regent of 
the Board of Regents of the Smithsonian Institution. Agreed to 
by voice vote. Became Public Law No: 106-199.
    June 27, 2000--H. Con. Res. 333. Providing for the 
acceptance of a statue of Chief Washakie, presented by the 
people of Wyoming, for placement in National Statuary Hall, and 
for other purposes. Agreed to by voice vote.
    June 27, 2000--H. Con. Res. 344. Permitting the use of the 
rotunda of the Capitol for a ceremony to present the 
Congressional Gold Medal to Father Theodore Hesburgh. Agreed to 
by voice vote.
    July 25, 2000--H.R. 4846. ``The National Recording 
Preservation Act of 2000.'' To establish the National Recording 
Registry at the Library of Congress. Passed by voice vote. On 
motion that the House disagree to the Senate amendments Agreed 
to without objection. Became Public Law No: 106-474.
    September 12, 2000. H. Con. Res. 368. Establishing a 
special task force to recommend an appropriate recognition for 
the slave laborers who worked on the construction of the United 
States Capitol. Agreed to by voice vote.
    October 3, 2000--H.R. 5212. Veterans' Oral History Project 
Act. Directing the American Folklife Center at the Library of 
Congress to establish a program to collect video and audio 
recordings of personal histories and testimonials of American 
war veterans. Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays. Became Public Law 
No: 106-380.
    October 13, 2000--H.R. 5174. To Amend Title 10 and 18, 
United States Code, and the Revised Statutes to remove the 
uncertainty regarding the authority of the Department of 
Defense to permit buildings located on military installations 
and reserve component facilities to be used as polling places 
in Federal, State and Local elections for public office. Agreed 
to by the Yeas and Nays.
    October 17, 2000--H.R. 5410. To establish revolving funds 
for the operation of certain programs and activities of the 
Library of Congress, and for other purposes. Became Public Law 
No: 106-481.
    October 17, 2000--S. 2498. A bill to authorize the 
Smithsonian Institution to plan, design, construct, and equip 
laboratory, administrative, and support space to house base 
operations for the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory 
Submillimeter Array located on Mauna Kea at Hilo, Hawaii. 
Agreed to by voice vote. Became Public Law No: 106-383.
    October 24, 2000--S. Con. Res. 141. A concurrent resolution 
to authorize the printing of copies of the publication entitled 
``The United States Capitol'' as a Senate document. Agreed to 
without objection by unanimous consent.
    December 15, 2000--H. Con. Res. 445. To honor Henry B. 
Gonzalez. Agreed to by voice vote.

     MINORITY VIEWS OF STENY H. HOYER, CHAKA FATTAH, AND JIM DAVIS

                         historical background

    We have read with interest the Majority activities report's 
``Brief History'' of the Committee, which focuses primarily on 
events after 1995. We would broaden the discussion with the 
following observations.
    During the last six years, the Republican Majority, in the 
Committee and more generally, has effectuated improvements to 
the management and operation of the House. Many of the 
improvements had actually been initiated during previous, 
Democratic Congresses. Into this category falls enactment of 
the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 (Public Law 104-
1), subjecting Congress to certain employment-related laws 
applicable to the private sector. The House had previously 
considered such proposals, and during the 103d Congress had 
even passed a bill (H.R. 4822) to accomplish it. But the bill 
stalled in the Senate, so by a vote of 348-3, that same House 
adopted a resolution (H. Res. 578) applying such laws to 
itself, the most that it could accomplish without Senate 
concurrence. Fortunately, the next Congress enacted the reform 
as a permanent law, a superior approach that could also cover 
the Senate and other legislative-branch employers such as the 
Architect of the Capitol and the Library of Congress.
    The Majority's 1995 creation of the post of Chief 
Administrative Officer (CAO) as an elected officer of the House 
similarly built upon the progress made by Democrats with the 
Director of Non-legislative and Financial Services, created in 
the Administrative Reform Resolution of 1992 (H. Res. 423, 102d 
Cong.). After the failed experiment with the Director, who was 
appointed jointly by the two party leaders as a non-partisan 
House official, the GOP recast the position into the partisan 
CAO we know today.
    The 1992 Administrative Reform Resolution also created the 
non-partisan position of Inspector General of the House. To its 
credit, the Republican Majority has strengthened the Inspector 
General by augmenting his budget, staff, and authority to 
contract for professional, outside audits. The Inspector 
General's work has contributed greatly to the recent 
improvements in the management and operation of the House.
    Another significant improvement made by the Committee since 
1995, consolidation of the Members' office allowances into one 
Members' Representational Allowance (MRA), continued a trend 
begun under Democrats during the 1970s. The flexibility 
afforded by a single MRA has relieved many administrative 
burdens imposed by the prior scheme of multiple, discrete 
office accounts. However, in this area much work remains 
because the MRA formula, which has not been modified since 
1986, has not kept pace with changes in the economy and how 
Members operate their offices. A recent study reconfirmed that 
House personal staff earn on average substantially less than 
comparably educated workers in the national economy and 
elsewhere in the federal government, yielding high staff 
turnover and low tenure in Members' offices impairing Members' 
ability to achieve their goals. In addition, high costs of 
computers and other commodities Members must buy also compete 
for the available resources. In the First Session of the 107th 
Congress, the Committee should re-examine the MRA formula, and 
make appropriate adjustments effective for the Second Session. 
If Members are to represent their constituents effectively, 
they must have adequate resources.
    We share the Majority's pride in the Committee's role in 
the development of the THOMAS electronic information system. We 
recall that Congressional information was available on-line, 
through the tremendous work of the Government Printing Office, 
even before THOMAS made its debut. In 1993, the 103d Congress 
mandated (P.L. 103-40) that the GPO make the Congressional 
Record and the Federal Register available online, and 
distribute other government information electronically, and 
since June 1994, the GPO has been doing just that. GPO Access, 
the GPO's website (www.access.gpo.gov), has in the last six-
and-a-half years grown wildly popular. In January 1998 alone, 
the public retrieved more than 10.5 million documents from it, 
the equivalent of nearly 250 documents per minute around the 
clock. Today's GPO Access features more than 70 databases from 
all three branches of the Federal Government, and its 
Congressional databases, which are constructed and maintained 
by the GPO, are the very same databases relied upon by the 
THOMAS system.
    While it has had its achievements, at times the Committee 
has been slow to exercise its responsibilities, if at all. In 
1998 the Committee voted to permit Members, officers and 
committees to offer transit-fare subsidies to qualifying 
employees, finally bringing to the House a government-wide 
program established by the 102d Congress which the Senate had 
adopted in 1993. The Committee acted after a bipartisan 
majority of the House cosponsored a resolution (H. Res. 37, 
105th Cong.) sponsored by Representative Earl Blumenauer of 
Oregon calling for implementation of the program. In 1999, the 
Appropriations Committee by voice vote adopted an amendment by 
Representative Sam Farr similar to his resolution (H. Res. 146, 
106th Cong.) mandating improvements to the House's troubled 
office-waste recycling program. The program fails to realize 
thousands of dollars that could be collected if the program 
were optimized. In this case, the Committee has to this date 
failed to act, and the recycling program's troubles continue.
    However, we commend the Majority for continuing and 
accelerating the improvements to the administrative structure 
of the House that that began, in a bipartisan fashion, under 
Speaker Tom Foley. These achievements will help ensure that, 
from a ministerial standpoint, the House runs more efficiently 
and effectively, which benefits all Members. We have 
appreciated the opportunity to work together with the Majority 
toward these improvements. In the 107th Congress, we hope to 
work with the Majority toward further improvements, both in the 
Committee's administration of the House, and in the Committee's 
exercise of its legislative jurisdiction.

  majority breaks promise of ``one third'' minority committee funding

    Before they became the Majority party in 1995, House 
Republicans adopted the mantra that ``one-third'' of the 
resources of each committee for staff, salaries and expenses 
should be provided to the Minority to be spent as directed by 
the committee's ranking minority member.
    A March 30, 1993, letter sent to the Joint Committee on the 
Organization of Congress and signed by every member of the 
Republican leadership and the Republican ranking minority 
members of every House committee states: ``A ratio of one-
third/two thirds for all committee staff, investigative as well 
as statutory, is a sine qua non for bridging the institutional 
animosities that now poison our policy debates.''
    Since taking control of the House, however, the new 
Majority has failed repeatedly to put its principles into 
action. Instead, the Majority restated ``one-third'' as a 
future goal rather than as a principle, and one that the House 
would have to ``grow'' toward over some indeterminate period of 
time.
    During consideration of the biennial committee funding 
resolution by the House Administration Committee in 1999, the 
Committee during markup rejected on a party-line vote 
amendments by Representative Hoyer which would have mandated 
one-third of committee resources to be used at the direction of 
each committee's ranking minority member, including any 
expenditures derived from the resolution's ``reserve fund'' for 
future unexpected investigations and contingencies. A Hoyer 
motion to recommit the funding resolution with instructions to 
achieve the same result was subsequently rejected on the House 
Floor on a party-line vote.
    Ironically, the only House committee which complied with 
the ``one-third'' principle during the 106th Congress was House 
Administration, and Chairman Thomas deserves credit for 
successfully implementing the practice. Unfortunately, his zeal 
to put the long-promised reform into action was apparently not 
shared by the Republican leadership and other committee 
chairmen.
    Instead, the Minority party on committees throughout the 
House faced a crazy-quilt of practices, and excuses, to avoid 
providing the promised resources to a Democratic minority which 
comprises 49 percent of the House membership. For example, 
Republican chairmen resorted to such tactics as declaring 
certain staff ``administrative'' in nature, pretending that 
these staff served the interests of both parties when in fact 
they had little or nothing to do with serving the Minority's 
interests and the Minority had no control over their hiring. 
The Minority was then given a percentage of the remaining 
committee staff, which was then falsely advertised as being 
one-third.
    It is essential that the Majority again face this issue in 
the new 107th Congress, in which the Republican Majority will 
be reduced even further. The Minority will continue to argue, 
both in the House Administration Committee and on the Floor, 
that one-third of funding and committee resources for staff 
salaries, staff slots and equipment be provided to us.
    With respect to the reserve fund, which was used in the 
104th and 105th Congresses to fund investigations, the Minority 
will also insist on one-third of any allocations which may be 
made. The Minority was pleased that, while $3 million was 
placed in the reserve fund for the 107th Congress, none of this 
money was ultimately expended for additional committee 
activities. The reserve fund, if used sparingly and disbursed 
fairly, can be a useful mechanism to deal with unanticipated 
situations.

                    reform of the political process

    The Majority makes the claim of having made significant 
strides in its work in the area of election reform and the 
political process, which is the Committee's major legislative 
policy jurisdiction under House Rule X. In fact, the 106th 
Congress represented a series of missed opportunities for the 
passage of legislation enacting campaign finance reform, 
revitalizing the Federal Elections Commission and improving the 
operation of the Federal Contested Elections Act used in House 
election contests. What could have been a Congress of historic 
achievement, instead was one of inaction.
I. Campaign finance reform--missed opportunities
    On June 17, 1999, the Committee began a series of hearings 
on campaign finance reform. While holding hearings marked a 
noticeable improvement from the previous Congress, where 
campaign finance legislation was marked up without any hearings 
and within only hours of the text becoming available, the 
hearings in the 106th Congress had been scheduled only after 
the introduction of a discharge petition on H.R. 417. H.R. 417, 
``The Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 1999'', also known as 
the Shays-Meehan campaign finance reform bill, would ban soft 
money and bring sham issue ad spending back within the campaign 
finance system. A related version of this bill had passed the 
House easily in 1998 despite opposition by the Committee and 
the majority of House Republicans.
    Three hearings were held in which Members had an 
opportunity to testify on the various proposals that they had 
sponsored, and one hearing presented perspectives of various 
campaign finance experts from groups as diverse as Common Cause 
and the James Madison Center for Free Speech.
    The Majority notes that it reported four campaign related 
bills on August 2, 1999. Only one, H.R. 2688, Chairman Thomas' 
``Campaign Reform and Election Integrity Act'', to make 
procedural fixes in the structure and functioning of the 
Federal Elections Commission, was reported favorably. This 
bill, consisting of useful but minor technical changes in 
election laws, was noncontroversial but did nothing to address 
the major defects plaguing the election process. Two other 
bills, H.R. 1922 and H.R. 1867, were reported without 
recommendation. All three of these proposals were ultimately 
defeated by the House when they were offered as substitutes to 
comprehensive campaign reform: the Shays-Meehan bill.
    The Committee reported the Shays-Meehan bill unfavorably by 
a party-line vote despite its strong bipartisan support and 
previous passage in the 105th Congress. Nonetheless, the bill 
was again easily passed on the House Floor, just as it had been 
in 1998, by a vote of 252-177 on September 14, 1999. It remains 
the dominant vehicle for future action. Following passage of 
H.R. 417, campaign finance reform was ultimately blocked by a 
Republican filibuster in the Senate. However, House 
Administration Committee markup and Floor action on the bill 
yet again is virtually certain in the 107th Congress and we 
hope that it will be possible to work together to report a 
comprehensive campaign finance package out of the Committee.
II. FEC reform--missed opportunities
    After House passage of Shays-Meehan, the opportunity was 
available to deal with issues relating to the Federal Election 
Commission. Several legislative vehicles were readily 
available. Chairman Thomas' bill, H.R. 2668, reported 
unanimously by the Committee, had been rejected by the House as 
a substitute to the Shays-Meehan bill because its adoption 
would have defeated the comprehensive campaign reform 
legislation. However, H.R. 2668 had a number of useful 
provisions in its own right which were deserving of separate 
consideration. In fact, we had previously introduced H.R. 1818, 
a similar bill containing provisions that had the bi-partisan 
support of a majority of FEC Commissioners. Passage of H.R. 
1818 would have resulted in streamlined procedures for 
contributors.
    Committee Democrats believe that either H.R. 1818 or H.R. 
2668 would have made an excellent companion measure to the 
Shays-Meehan campaign finance bill and that together the bills 
would have reformed the campaign finance system and the agency 
that oversees it. Either of these FEC reform bills could have 
passed the House easily under suspension of the rules. 
Unfortunately, although Representative Hoyer sent a letter to 
Speaker Hastert on September 23, 1999, requesting that either 
H.R. 1818 or H.R. 2668 be brought to the Floor for a vote, no 
vote was ever scheduled. Thus, another opportunity came and 
went.
    In the second session of the 106th Congress, we again 
introduced an FEC reform bill, H.R. 4037, ``The FEC Reform and 
Authorization Act of 2000'', this time incorporating all 
provisions of both H.R. 1818 and H.R. 2668. The committee on 
March 29, 2000, held a brief hearing with three FEC 
commissioners without addressing any of the substantive issues 
or taking up any piece of legislation, and then dropped the 
subject for the remainder of the Congress.
    Once again, the Majority squandered the opportunity to work 
together in a bipartisan fashion to enact legislation to 
strengthen the FEC in its mission, even though there were broad 
areas of agreement. We hope that in the upcoming 107th Congress 
the committee will be more receptive to FEC reauthorization 
legislation and other reforms.
    It was unfortunate that one significant provision the 
Minority repeatedly sought but failed to pass was an update of 
the Voting Systems Standards utilized by all state and local 
election boards to determine what voting equipment best fits 
their needs and what equipment functions best in particular 
circumstances. Despite Representative Hoyer's efforts to add 
this provision to H.R. 2668, the Thomas FEC bill, by amendment 
at the Committee markup of August 2, 1999, the Majority opposed 
it, arguing that states alone could instruct the FEC to 
undertake the update. While the FEC ultimately did undertake 
the update absent authorization, the effort was late in coming 
and underfunded, and it has yet to be completed. We hope that 
the failure to authorize the Voting Systems Standards update 
will serve as a valuable lesson in the upcoming months, as we 
anticipate that the Committee will begin to look at the Federal 
government's role in ensuring the integrity of federal 
elections.

III. Contested elections--missed opportunities

    The Majority claims credit for establishing a procedure for 
dealing with contested elections. In fact, the Majority did 
nothing on this subject during the 106th Congress and resisted 
efforts by the Minority to address the problems left to fester 
since the Dornan v. Sanchez contest in the 105th Congress (The 
Majority's efforts to undermine the Federal Contested Elections 
Act, flawed though it was during the 1997-98 election contest 
Dornan v. Sanchez, were discussed at length in the Minority 
Views printed in the Report on the Activities of the Committee 
on House Oversight of the House of Representatives during the 
105th Congress, H. Rpt. 105-850, starting on page 53.).
    In the wake of the Dornan v. Sanchez contest, it seemed 
that the Committee as a whole appreciated the need for 
procedural reforms to the Federal Contested Elections Act 
(FCEA), the 1969 statute which governs procedures for the 
consideration of election contests by the House. For the first 
time since the Republicans assumed control of the House in 
1995, no election contests were filed in the 106th Congress, 
and the time was ripe to make the needed changes on a 
bipartisan basis. But while the Chairman expressed a general 
willingness to work together, in fact no real progress was 
made.
    Although Representative Hoyer convened a group of experts 
and drafted proposed legislation, a series of delays instigated 
by the Majority led to months of meetings without any 
discernable progress. Although Representative Hoyer sent 
proposed legislation to the Chairman and to other senior 
members of the Committee in June 2000, and various meetings 
were held at the staff level to discuss possible options, the 
Chairman appeared generally unwilling to alter the status quo. 
As late as the Committee meeting of October 12, 2000, Chairman 
Thomas stated his intention to provide draft legislation to the 
Minority within the week. Unfortunately, nothing was ever 
presented to us.
    As we approach the 107th Congress, there will once again be 
no contested elections for the Committee to consider. Let us 
hope that this time we can finally seize the opportunity and 
craft a fully workable procedure for exercising the House's 
constitutional authority to judge the elections, returns, and 
qualifications of its Members.

                                   Steny H. Hoyer.
                                   Chaka Fattah.
                                   Jim Davis.

                                  
