A debate erupted Wednesday over a controversial proposal to require all state representatives wear “proper business attire” on House session days.
“I have never seen a member come into the House wearing flip-flops and a speedo,” said Republican Chris True of Sandown. “This change is neither needed or enforceable.”
Proper business attire wasn’t specifically defined in the rule change. But Republican leaders behind the proposal assured members there would be no “fashion police.”
“This doesn’t put anything draconian in place, it just says the speaker will be able to talk to members and suggest certain things,” said Rep. Gene Chandler, a Republican who said the idea stemmed from a number of unspecified clothing-related complaints last year.
The House didn’t buy it and nixed the idea by a resounding vote of 213-151. The chamber will likely hang onto some clothing traditions, however. The House meets for session in the un-air conditioned Representatives Hall. On hot spring or summer days, it’s become custom for a representative to make a motion for men to remove their jackets.