Legislature-Clerk of the House – Augusta, ME

Clerk of the House: Maine Legislature

Office Overview

The Office of the Clerk of the House is a constitutional office within the Maine Legislature, located in the historic State House in Augusta. This office serves as the administrative and parliamentary backbone of the Maine House of Representatives. The Clerk is the chief non-partisan officer of the House, elected by the Representatives at the beginning of each two-year legislative biennium. The office is responsible for maintaining the integrity of the legislative process, ensuring that all parliamentary procedures are followed correctly, and preserving the official records of the House’s actions.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Clerk of the House manages a wide array of functions critical to the daily operations of the legislature. A primary responsibility is the preparation and publication of the House Calendar, which lists the bills and papers to be considered during session, and the House Journal, the official record of proceedings. The Clerk’s staff processes all legislation introduced by House members, tracking bills through the committee process to final enactment or defeat. They also manage the filing of amendments, roll call votes, and communications between the House and the Senate or the Governor.

• Legislative Record: Producing the daily House Journal and maintaining the Register of Bills.
• Parliamentary Support: Advising the Speaker of the House and members on rules and parliamentary procedure.
• Bill Processing: Tracking legislation from introduction to final disposition.
• Document Management: Overseeing the printing and distribution of bills, calendars, and amendments.
• Official Communications: Transmitting messages to the Senate and the Governor’s Office.

Location and Environment

The Clerk’s Office is situated on the third floor of the Maine State House, near the House Chamber. This location places it at the center of legislative activity, allowing for immediate support to the Speaker and Representatives during session. The office environment is fast-paced and detail-oriented, particularly during the legislative session when the House is convening. The staff works closely with the Secretary of the Senate and other non-partisan offices to ensure the smooth functioning of the state government.

Security and Access

Access to the Clerk’s Office is governed by the security protocols of the Maine State House. All visitors must enter through the main public entrance and pass through security screening, including metal detectors and bag checks. The building is open to the public, and citizens are encouraged to visit and observe the legislative process. The Clerk’s Office itself is a public office, though specific appointments may be necessary for in-depth research or meetings with staff. The State House complex is fully accessible, featuring elevators and ramps to accommodate all visitors.