The Case of the Missing Roll Call Votes

As we near the end of the first year of the 2021-2022 two-year legislative session, we wanted to take a quick look at the activity by the Massachusetts Legislature. And when it comes to roll call votes, the Statehouse is way behind.

In 2021, both the House and Senate had substantially fewer roll call votes than at any time in the past 14 years. Even less than during the COVID-19 shutdown the prior session.

Why is this important? It hints that there is a lot of significant work still to be done.

Many bills require a roll call, including those related to environmental land takings, emergency preambles, the borrowing of money, consolidated amendments and member discipline.

Plus, roll call votes are often seen as a way for legislators to get their priorities “on the record.” Roll calls can be requested by any chamber member and are frequently approved, particularly when a “big bill” of significant policy importance is in play.

The lack of roll call votes so far signals a busy 2022 ahead.

Want to keep up with the anticipated deluge of legislative activity? Contact us at info@instatrac.com for a free trial.