§ 413 Oaths.

This rule says certain legislative leaders can swear in witnesses. This includes the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House, and chairmen leading committee meetings.

If a witness is being questioned as part of legislative business, these officials have the legal power to put that witness under oath. This means the witness must promise to tell the truth before answering questions, just like in a courtroom. Lying after taking this oath can lead to legal consequences.

This rule matters because it lets the legislature gather honest information during hearings and investigations. Without the power to administer oaths, lawmakers would have no formal way to hold witnesses accountable for what they say.