“When the 109th Congress convenes next month, an unassuming Washington state Democrat named Brian Baird will submit a modest proposal: Let’s actually read major pieces of legislation before we vote on them.”

The non-partisan Common Cause endorsed the 72 Online concept.

Common Cause endorsed following standard statement:
“We support the 72 Online rule to require generally that legislation and conference reports be posted on the Internet for 72 hours before floor consideration in Congress.”

Note: Endorsers of the 72 Online concept do not necessarily support or oppose any legislation, nor agree with the views of ReadtheBill.org or other endorsers on specific legislation or other matters.

“Complicated bills need time to read and digest. The 72-hour rule makes sense. Requiring the bills to be posted on the Internet for public view gives all of us a chance to be involved in our own government and strikes a blow for democracy.”

— Chellie Pingree, President, Common Cause

Common Cause is a nonpartisan nonprofit advocacy organization founded in 1970 by John Gardner as a vehicle for citizens to make their voices heard in the political process and to hold their elected leaders accountable to the public interest.

“It will be interesting to see who will step forward in Congress to oppose Baird’s resolution, and specify why. We cannot fathom what their reasons might be.”

The Chronicle leans conservative. Its editorial from March 18, 2006 says that Baird “has logic and the need for transparency in government on his side in pushing for disclosure of legislation to members of Congress and the public on the Internet at least 72 hours before a vote.”

“ReadtheBill.org founder Rafael DeGennaro said he hoped 1,000 organizations of all kinds will endorse the proposal by July 4.”