Floor Situation

H.Res. 140 is being considered on the floor under suspension of the rules, requiring a two-thirds majority vote for passage. This legislation was introduced by Representative Dale Kildee (D-MI) on January 15, 2009.

Bill Summary

H.Res. 140 resolves that the House of Representatives:

• "Recognizes the Honorable John D. Dingell for his tireless advocacy on behalf of his constituents in the State of Michigan in the past, present, and future;

• "Honors the Honorable John D. Dingell for his lifelong commitment to public service;

• "Celebrates the Honorable John D. Dingell and his more than 53 years of dedication to the United States Congress, as well the Nation and the ideals upon which it was founded; and

• "Congratulates the Honorable John D. Dingell upon attaining the record for longest serving Member of the House of Representatives."
  

Background

Congressman John Dingell (D-MI) represents Michigan's 15th Congressional District and is the Chairman Emeritus of the Committee on Energy and Commerce. On February 11, 2009, Dingell will become the longest serving Member of the House, surpassing former Congressman Jamie Whitten (D-MS).

John D. Dingell was born July 8, 1926, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He split much of his childhood between Detroit and Washington, DC. His father, also named served in the Army during World War II.

After his military service, Dingell attended Georgetown University where he studied chemistry. He continued his studies at Georgetown Law School, graduating in 1952. After graduation, Dingell worked as a forest ranger, a prosecuting attorney, and ran his own private law office. When his father passed away while still a Member of the House in 1955, the younger Dingell succeeded him, first representing Michigan's 15th district at the age of 29.