Succession Bill Clears House Judiciary Panel.

Doomsday legislation to speed election of new U.S. House members was approved on Wednesday by the House Judiciary Committee to cope with any terrorist attack or other catastrophe that would wipe out more than 100 lawmakers. On an 18-10 vote, the committee sent the legislation to the House for action, over Democratic objections the bill had too many loose ends and needed more study. Democrats said the bill pre-empts all state laws, and several lawmakers wondered whether 45 days would be enough time to hold elections.