Hold
Short Definition
A request by a Senator to his or her party leader to delay floor action on a measure (e.g., bill) or matter (e.g..
Long Explanation
A request by a Senator to his or her party leader to delay floor action on a measure (e.g., bill) or matter (e.g., nomination), to be consulted on its disposition, and/or an indication that he or she would object to a unanimous consent request to consider said item of business or otherwise delay or obstruct consideration.
In practice, Hold is useful because it helps a visitor connect a word or phrase to government records, official decisions, public services, or civic responsibilities. When you see the term in an official source, ask which office has authority, what decision is being made, which deadline or rule matters, and where the public record can be checked.
Examples
Common Misconception
A common mistake is treating Hold as a slogan instead of a term connected to a specific public process. The safest approach is to ask what authority, document, deadline, office, or public record gives the term its meaning.
Related Terms
Legislative ProcessSenateLegislation
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