[mewzilla]

This is from an old version, but I think Rule 89 is still on the books....

Rules of the Senate

Scroll down to Rule 89.

[paulycy]

Based on just this little limited reading, they could really shut down the govt if the dems don’t come home and the pubbies hold their position (which they should.)

Popcorn, please.

[PapaBear3625]

Rule 89 has to do with compelling a quorum. It does not define the quorum. On page 133 of the book at your link, it says that 3/5ths of the body must be present for bills which pass taxes or appropriations. The business before the Wisc senate does neither.

I'm still confused here. It seems to me that only a majority needs to be present, and the Dems are not needed for a quorum.

Another interesting section is Senate Rule 95. It holds that rules may not be changed without the consent of 2/3 of the members present. It seems to me that the Repubs could have a lot of fun here if they declared a quorum (majority of members, all R) and started making rule changes that would upset the Dems.