Which statement about motions for cloture is accurate?

• A. They force a bill out of committee
• B. They are applied to bills that failed in the previous session
• C. They are applied only to appropriation bills
• D. They are used to end a filibuster and bring a bill to a vote

Answer: (D)

Motions for cloture are an important parliamentary procedure in the U.S. Senate that allow the majority to limit debate on a bill or nomination. The key purpose of a cloture motion is to end a filibuster, which is an attempt by one or more senators to delay or block legislative action by extending debate on the measure. A successful cloture motion requires the support of three-fifths of the Senate (currently 60 votes), and once cloture is invoked, it limits further debate and typically brings the bill to a vote.

This mechanism is fundamental to maintaining legislative efficiency and ensuring that the Senate can move forward with important legislation even in the face of prolonged debate by a minority. The other options do not accurately describe the function of cloture. For instance, it does not force a bill out of committee or apply specifically to bills from previous sessions or only to appropriation bills. Thus, the correct statement articulates the primary purpose of a cloture motion, highlighting its critical role in facilitating legislative passage in the context of potential obstruction.