The CantmIre Post

The House Oversight Committee, led by chair James Comer, is making headlines as they oppose a rule amendment to allow members to work remotely for health reasons. Despite the fact that exceptions can be made, Comer has continued to pushback against remote working.

The proposed amendment would have allowed members of Congress to participate in committee business remotely when deemed necessary due to health concerns or disability. In essence, it was intended to make the legislative body more accessible and inclusive for those unable to travel due to underlying medical conditions or disabilities.

However, Comer has argued that allowing members of Congress to work from home would set a “dangerous precedent” and be “a slippery slope” that could lead to other forms of remote work being approved in the future. He has also expressed concerns that remote working could lead to an increase in partisan bickering and would be difficult for him and other chairs of committees with multiple members spread out across different time zones.

In response, organizations such as the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) have urged Comer and his colleagues on the House Oversight Committee to reconsider their decision, arguing that this policy will only further exclude individuals who are unable or unwilling to travel due to medical issues or disabilities from participating in legislative matters.

Despite the outcry from advocates, it appears unlikely that Comer will change his stance on this issue anytime soon. As he has made clear through his comments on the matter thus far, Comer is firmly opposed to allowing any form of remote working for members of Congress and does not appear willing compromise his position on this issue at present.