The House Clerk’s Office serves as the administrative and record-keeping center of the House of Delegates within the Olbiil Era Kell (OEK). It ensures the smooth operation of the legislative process by managing official documentation, maintaining accurate records of proceedings, and supporting the daily functions of the chamber. Through its diligence and professionalism, the Clerk’s Office upholds transparency, procedural order, and the integrity of the legislative record.
Role and Responsibilities
The Clerk’s Office provides essential procedural and clerical support to the Speaker, members, and committees of the House. It is responsible for organizing sessions, preserving legislative records, and ensuring that all proceedings comply with the Constitution and the Rules of the House.
Key responsibilities include:
- Recording minutes and votes during plenary sessions and committee meetings
- Maintaining official records of bills, resolutions, motions, and amendments
- Preparing and publishing the daily order of business, agendas, and session calendars
- Certifying and transmitting adopted legislation to the Senate and the Office of the President
- Authenticating official documents, correspondence, and committee reports
- Providing administrative and logistical assistance to House members and staff
The Clerk’s Office also ensures the safekeeping and proper archiving of all legislative materials, preserving the institutional memory of the House for future reference.
Leadership and Organization
The Clerk of the House is appointed by the members of the House of Delegates and serves as the chief administrative officer for the chamber. The Clerk is supported by deputy clerks, administrative assistants, and records management staff who work together to provide efficient service and maintain legislative continuity.
The Clerk reports directly to the Speaker of the House and coordinates closely with the Joint Staff Office to align administrative practices with those of the Senate and the broader OEK.
Session Management
During sessions, the Clerk and staff provide procedural assistance to the presiding officer and members. They prepare and distribute documents needed for debate, record all motions and votes, and ensure that legislative actions are properly certified. The Clerk also advises the Speaker on parliamentary procedure when required.
All proceedings are documented in the official House Journal, which serves as the authoritative record of debates, actions, and decisions taken during each session.
Legislative Documentation and Publication
After a bill or resolution is passed, the Clerk’s Office prepares certified copies for transmission to the Senate and, once enacted, for inclusion in the Palau National Code. The office also handles the publication of House Journals, session summaries, and reports to ensure transparency and public access to legislative information.
Citizens, researchers, and journalists may request access to public records through the Clerk’s Office, in accordance with applicable laws and procedures.
Support to Committees
The Clerk’s Office provides administrative support to House committees by assisting with scheduling, record-keeping, and report preparation. It ensures that all committee findings and recommendations are properly formatted and presented to the full House for consideration.
Commitment to Service
The House Clerk’s Office is dedicated to accuracy, efficiency, and openness in the management of the House’s affairs. By maintaining comprehensive records and facilitating orderly proceedings, the office helps sustain public confidence in the integrity of Palau’s legislature.
Its work reflects the broader mission of the Olbiil Era Kell: to serve the people of Palau with transparency, accountability, and respect for democratic principles.
Contact Information
House Clerk’s Office
Olbiil Era Kell – National Capitol, Ngerulmud, Melekeok State
Phone: (680) 000-0000
Email: houseclerk@oek.pw
The House Clerk’s Office remains an essential pillar of the legislative process, ensuring that the work of the House of Delegates is properly recorded, preserved, and made accessible to the people it serves.