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Summary:
The events of September 11, 2001, and the subsequent anthrax incidents have prompted some observers to suggest creating a capability for a virtual or electronic Congress (e-Congress) that could function in the event of an emergency. Currently, it is unclear exactly how an e-Congress would be constituted and operated. Broad suggestions have been offered involving the establishment of a Web site that Members of Congress could access from any location beyond the Capitol complex. It has been suggested that such a Web site could enable Members of Congress to carry out activities normally done on the chambers' floors or in committees. These suggestions generally highlight the use of information technology (IT) to enable Congress to carry out its responsibilities remotely, as a substitute for traditional congressional functions performed in Washington. These proposals tend to focus on floor activity while not addressing other areas of congressional activities, such as committee business and Member office operations. In addition to these matters, the possibility of convening an e-Congress raises a number of procedural, technical, and resource questions that may require further study. This report provides an overview of the issues and relevant legislation, and will be updated as events warrant.
