To direct the Librarian of Congress to promote the more cost-effective, efficient, and expanded availability of the Annotated Constitution and pocket-part supplements by replacing the hardbound versions with digital versions.
To direct the Librarian of Congress to promote the more cost-effective, efficient, and expanded availability of the Annotated Constitution and pocket-part supplements by replacing the hardbound versions with digital versions.
Plain Language Summary
# HR 1234 Summary **What the Bill Does** This bill directs the Library of Congress to stop printing physical hardbound copies of the "Annotated Constitution"—a reference book that explains what the Constitution means and how courts have interpreted it—and instead publish it only in digital form online. The change would apply starting with supplements after the Supreme Court term that begins in October 2025 and all future editions. **Who It Affects and Why** The bill primarily affects the Library of Congress and the people who use the Annotated Constitution, including lawyers, judges, students, and the general public. Supporters argue that digital versions are more cost-effective and efficient than printing and distributing physical books, while also making the information more accessible to anyone with internet access.
The sponsor, Representative Stephanie Bice (R-OK), presented this as a modernization measure to save money and improve availability. **Current Status** The bill has already passed the House of Representatives and is moving through the legislative process. It now awaits action in the Senate before it could become law.
CRS Official Summary
This bill replaces the requirement for the Library of Congress to prepare hardbound versions of the Constitution Annotated and supplements with a requirement for the Library to instead prepare digital versions and publish them online.The new requirement applies to the supplement after the Supreme Court term beginning October 2025 and all subsequent editions.
Latest Action
Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Rules and Administration.