Rep. Rodriguez proposes Congress session extension to June 11

Cagayan de Oro Representative Rufus Rodriguez has proposed extending the first regular session of the 18th Congress by one week, until June 11, to allow for the passage of pending COVID-19 response bills.

The proposed extension, filed through House Concurrent Resolution 8, aims to address a backlog of crucial measures before Congress adjourns sine die on June 5.

Key legislation awaiting passage includes the ARISE Act for economic stimulus, the COVID-19-Related Anti-Discrimination Act, the FIST Act, the CURES Act, and the Better Normal Act.

Rodriguez also mentioned other pending measures such as bills for pop-up bicycle lanes, the Crushing COVID-19 Act, and an extension of the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act.

He cited the Constitution, which grants Congress the authority to determine its session days, as the basis for his proposal.

Alternative suggestions from other lawmakers include requesting President Duterte to call for a special session during the upcoming break.