A special rule is itself a House resolution that the chamber adopts before considering the underlying measure. It may be open to many amendments, closed to floor amendments, or structured to permit only specified proposals. The rule can also waive certain points of order.

This gatekeeping connects the committee closely to majority leadership. By choosing amendment opportunities and debate time, the rule can protect a coalition from votes that would fracture it or alter the bill. The committee does not decide the final merits for the House.

Do not confuse this procedural role with subject-matter committees. Ways and Means develops tax legislation and Appropriations writes spending measures; Rules generally determines how major measures reach and proceed on the House floor. Senate debate is not governed by House special rules.

Video lesson: Congressional Committees: Crash Course Government and Politics #7