MEMBERS, OFFICERS AND EMPLOYES.
On motion by Mr. OWEN, the bill substituted by a Senate Committee for the bill [H. R. 271] concerning members, officers and employes of the General Assembly was read the second time.
Mr. HEFRON regarded this bill as a piece of legislative monstrosity, something unheard of in legislation. This General Assembly should not undertake to lay down rules for all future Legislatures. This bill, if encacted into a law, would cut off that free and independent power the Constitution confers on each branch acting for itself separately and distinctly. If passed it would be unconstitutional.
Mr. LANGDON also opposed the passage of the bill. There are some wholesome regulations laid down in the bill, but each General Assembly can regulate such matters to suit itself. If enacted it attempts to deprive each House of its clearly defined Constitutional powers. It fixes in a iron frame every provision about Committees, their number of clerks, etc., not having any reference to the business of the session.
On motion, this bill was referred to the Judiciary Committee.
