The U.S. House of Representatives returned to session this week after a multi-week hiatus, only to be quickly consumed by a series of censures, reprimands, and investigations of its own members, leaving little time for legislative business.

Lawmakers have focused on punishing colleagues for political and personal transgressions rather than addressing pressing issues such as rising health insurance costs. Del. Stacey Plaskett, a Democrat from the U.S. Virgin Islands, survived a failed attempt by Republicans to censure her and remove her from the House Intelligence Committee over past communications with Jeffrey Epstein.

Rep. Cory Mills, R-Fla., faced a new House Ethics Committee investigation following allegations of threatening behavior against a former partner. Other lawmakers, including Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, D-Fla., and Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia, D-Ill., have also faced censure or reprimand efforts this week.

House Democrats criticized the GOP majority for prioritizing political punishments over urgent legislation. Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said, “It’s time for the House to actually do things that matter for the American people,” noting that Republicans have yet to bring bills addressing the high cost of living to the floor.

Speaker Mike Johnson has struggled to maintain control as rank-and-file lawmakers use discharge petitions and procedural maneuvers to push controversial issues, including the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files, ahead of the leadership’s schedule.

Observers say the cycle of investigations and public punishments has become the new normal in the House, leaving critical legislation, including health care funding and government appropriations, at risk as the year-end approaches.