Legal Definitions - reading clerk

A reading clerk is an official within a legislative body, such as a parliament, congress, or city council, whose primary duty is to read aloud official documents. These documents typically include bills, resolutions, amendments, committee reports, and other legislative texts that require public recitation during debates, voting procedures, or other formal proceedings. The role ensures that all members and the public are aware of the exact language being considered.

Here are some examples illustrating the role of a reading clerk:

• Example 1 (National Legislature): During a session of the national parliament, a complex budget bill is introduced for consideration. The reading clerk stands before the assembly and reads the full text of the bill, section by section, ensuring that all lawmakers hear the precise wording of the proposed legislation before the debate begins.

  This illustrates the reading clerk's role in formally presenting a major legislative document to the entire body, making its contents known to all members and initiating the legislative process for that specific bill.

• Example 2 (Committee Hearing/Debate): In a state senate committee meeting, an amendment to an environmental protection bill is proposed by a senator. Before the committee members can discuss or vote on the amendment, the reading clerk reads the exact language of the proposed change aloud. This ensures that everyone understands the specific modification being considered, preventing misunderstandings about its scope or intent.

  Here, the reading clerk ensures clarity and transparency by vocalizing the precise wording of an amendment, which is crucial for informed decision-making during legislative processes, especially when changes are being made to existing proposals.

• Example 3 (Local Government Meeting): At a municipal council meeting, a new resolution concerning zoning changes for a specific neighborhood is on the agenda. Before the council members discuss and vote on it, the reading clerk for the city council reads the entire resolution aloud, including all its clauses and stipulations. This public reading ensures that both the council members and any attending citizens are fully informed about the proposed changes to local regulations.

  This example demonstrates the reading clerk's function in a local government setting, ensuring that important resolutions are formally presented and understood by both elected officials and the public, promoting transparency in local governance.