House floor could get gadget-happy

BlackBerrys, iPads and smartphones could soon be showing up on the floor of the House, under new rules introduced by House Republican leaders.

As reported by the Washington Post, the current rule against the use of wireless phones or personal computers on the floor have been modified to ban any device "that impairs decorum."

"In other words, as long as you've turned down your cellphone ringer and you're not strolling around the floor chatting with your broker or helping the kids with their homework, feel free to tap away," writes Ruth Marcus.

"If the Senate is the world's greatest deliberative body, the House is poised to be the world's greatest tweeting one," Marcus adds.