Changes

Before 1917 there was no provision for '''cloture''', or shutting off debate. In response to the filibuster of a bill to arm American merchant ships that were under attack by German U-Boats (before war was declared), the Senate adopted the two-thirds rule for cloture putting a halt to debate on an issue.

Before 1917 there was no provision for '''cloture''', or shutting off debate. In response to the filibuster of a bill to arm American merchant ships that were under attack by German U-Boats (before war was declared), the Senate adopted the two-thirds rule for cloture putting a halt to debate on an issue.

 

In 1975 Rule 22 was adopted that reduced the number for cloture to 60 (while leaving the two-thirds rule when the Senate rules themselves are at issue.) The effect is that almost  all major legislation needs 60 votes to pass the Senate.  One exception comes in "reconciliation" bills that deal with the budget. Another is the use of fast track" legislation, as with the North American Free Trade Agreement.

In 1975 Rule 22 was adopted that reduced the number for cloture to 60 (while leaving the two-thirds rule when the Senate rules themselves are at issue.) The effect is that almost  all major legislation needs 60 votes to pass the Senate.  One exception comes in "reconciliation" bills that deal with the budget. Another is the use of fast track" legislation, as with the North American Free Trade Agreement.