Every August, federal lawmakers return home to meet with constituents and spend time with family during what is commonly known as the congressional “August recess,” also referred to as a congressional work period. These meetings offer citizens and organizations such as the Indiana Farm Bureau an opportunity to meet face-to-face with their senators and representatives and speak about the issues that are on their mind. For example, this year Farm Bureau’s top priority is the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). Hoosier farmers are also talking about tax and regulatory reform. More information about INFB’s August Recess activities can be found on the website.

You might be wondering why Congress needs a special month-long break or the origin of this tradition. I found myself asking the same questions, so I decided to do a little research to learn more. I will save you all of the details by providing you with the link to the full story. But first, just a few highlights on the history of August Recess for those of you with limited time on your hands.

• Congress has adjourned for summer breaks dating all the way back to 1791. Of course, it wasn’t until the 20^th century that federal lawmaking was a full-time position. Until that time, lawmakers worked other jobs as well, including many farmers.
• In 1841 congress experienced its first full Washington summer due to an usually large work load. Shortly after the start of the 20^th century, this became normal practice (imagine that for a moment, D.C. in the summertime with no air-conditioning!).
• A mandated recess was so important to congress that it passed the Legislative Reorganization Act in 1970, establishing August recess in statute. You might think of it as America’s only required vacation.
• The reason for this change had to do with the fact that junior members of congress with young families lobbied more senior members for more predictability in the legislative schedule so they could plan their vacations and ensure valuable time spent with their spouses and children.
• The late 1960’s were especially tasking on congressional members given a series of notable activities that demanded their time such as the Vietnam War, President Lyndon B. Johnson’s “war on poverty” and social reform agenda.
• Under the constitution, the Senate and House cannot recess for more than 3 days without the other’s permission.
• In addition to meeting with constituents back home, members have the opportunity to spend some well-deserved time off with family as well.