Filibuster
This is an old revision of this page, as edited by RJJensen (talk | contribs) at 09:17, August 28, 2009. It may differ significantly from current revision.
A filibuster is an attempt to block Senate vote on a bill by debating it at length, by offering numerous procedural motions, or by any other delaying or obstructive actions.[1] The record for the longest filibuster is held by former Senator Strom Thurmond, who filibustered against the Civil Rights Act of 1957 for 24 hours, 18 minutes.[2]
Until 1975 it took a two-thirds vote to end debate. A rules change that year reduced the number to 60. The effect is that almost all major legislation needs 60 votes to pass the Senate. The exception comes in "reconciliation" bills that deal with the budget.
References
- â [1] US Senate Reference
- â http://www.senate.gov/artandhistory/history/common/briefing/Filibuster_Cloture.htm