Capital Hill may not always be a place where change happens quickly, just ask some how long it takes new laws to come on the books, but it looks like there has been some progress on a long standing rule regarding the use of technology on the the house floor.
It is expected that pretty soon, lawmakers will be allowed to use mobile devices such as the iPhone, iPad, BlackBerry and other portable devices while on the house floor. The change being introduced is by John A. Boehmer, the incoming House speaker who is asking that the rules be related somewhat. According to what is being proposed, portable devices would be permitted so long as they are being used for House matters, but they would be strictly prohibited for unrelated items like playing video games or Ebay shopping.
There’s a few reasons why this change is being introduced. First, this is being looked at as a green option to what they currently use, but more so, these devices are tools of efficiency, allowing legislators to access in real time, important documents and legislation.
Obviously, nothing happens on the Hill without a debate and this change request has stirred some controversy. Some are arguing that this change goes against the long standing traditions of conduct and behavior while some on the other side of the fence argue that the Hill is finally getting connected and keeping up with the rest of the society that they serve.
